A New Beginning

[BadInfluence]

The sun by the hot springs was almost too warm for her, but given the company and her fatigue it was a happy marriage instead, something she languished in while they chatted and she studied. “Everyone needs a break now and then, even dorkasauruses…” She said idly, keeping her voice very neutral as she brought up the little tease from the day before, trying to keep the smile from showing on her face that kept flickering on the corners. It was an interesting and amazing opportunity to go and see this new city, to attend the lecture on pathogens and the like, But it wasn’t without it’s own bits of ups and downs… Such as the poor doctor who was to be the original speaker, though no one could deny that it seemed a bit of a Freudian slip that the speaker on pathogens managed to get sick enough to miss his own lecture, something about that was almost cosmically funny. “I think that’s a very sweet idea. I’ll see what I can get at and make him a little tin of tea to help ease his symptoms a little, maybe something with chamomile and lavender, I think too we got a shipment in of crystallized honey so I can blend it with some willow bark… Maybe some dried fruit bits too like apples… That would be nice…” She didn’t quite run on but her mind had definitely picked up the idea and was running with it, formulating a tea in her mind that could help the poor sick man, but also he rather tasty too. “It will be interesting to see who decided to go… I don’t really see the girls going for intellectual purposes but probably for the free trip into a big town… All three might come though if Rincavornon comes along, but that’s hard to say too given the situation…” They needed doctors there at the hospital for anyone who came in needing further treatment for their burns and to monitor those in worse conditions than others, surely it couldn’t all be dropped on Dr. Faelon or the other two doctors currently there? There was a lot to think of but not something she focused on, between studying and their current conversation most everything else sat in the trunk of the carriage so to speak.



She had to tease him a bit when he said to bring the usual, that her usual was far from the same as say, his or one of the others. Hers was small, a few precious little trinkets she kept on her at all times for safety but were now well hidden in her room in various little stash spots, leaving her bag mostly empty… Well unless it was lunch in which case it was full of fruit but point remained the same. She blushed a little when he half picked up on her concern, the fact she had next to no clothes and was totally ill-suited and unprepared for a trip to the big city in such a way left her feeling a bit… OR a lot… Completely and utterly unprepared… It was a problem that needed to be rectified but she could manage it… Right? It… Wasn’t that hard to go shopping… Girls did it all the time… But just thinking about it turned her stomach a little in a very unpleasant way. “One of my striper uniforms is in the wash but it should be ok by tomorrow, I have one other that’s currently clean but I think I’ll ask for a spare at the hospital just in case, I’d rather not risk it if I need it and don’t have it.” Books and journals, pencils and pens and erasers and ink were like picking fruit off a tree in this house so she easily had access to what ever she might need in that case, and packing them up would be easy. It was just the former issue that would trip her up but she’d get to that today… As he came to the side of the pool with her to nibble and get a drink yes, she was utterly and completely shocked that he had been hit with a drow poison, it left her wondering how in the world it had happened and why… Questions and statements that fell from her lips before she realized it and put a halt to them herself, she honestly couldn’t imagine Jacob ever getting into such a situation, and knowing he had? Really tossed her left field. She was blushing a touch and bit her lip there a moment before nodding. “I’m sorry, you’re the first person I have ever heard of who’s been hit directly, and I can’t really… Put two and two together in my head, it’s shocked me, I really shouldn’t have gone off like that. You really don’t have to tell me, especially if it’s embarrassing, but I can’t promise I won’t pick your mind over how it felt…” Purely for study reasons of course, there was a lot there to think about, and if he could describe the symptoms of it she could figure out a way to treat some of the side effects that were… Unpleasant…



They went into the discussion of drow herbs and if they could perhaps be married to other less volatile plants and used as a way to treat some of the more complex or difficult cases. Of course the issue with testing things was that you needed a willing participant, which left just he and she, and while he had been hit with it before and would know far better than she? If something did go sideways she’d be a poor replacement for him to bring him back from any bad trips so to speak. It was a rather complex idea, a little risky, but she was passionate about the oddest things sometimes! His reply to her was cheeky but honest and it earned a bright little laugh from her. “Sad but true isn’t it? At least for a little while, but I’ll get better and better, just you wait. I’ll be a doctor and then I can save you too.” She said with a smile and a confidence that was starting to bud there… Like she could do it, would do it, because God knew she had the desire to. She began to play with him a bit, the game of fruit was light and fun, childish perhaps but some of the best things in the world are. It was definitely a nice little break in the day and something needed, even if it was only subconsciously, it helped. When he mentioned her melodica she had bounded up to grab it, bringing it back down in no time at all, a little discussion about what to play… Of course it was her favorite that she chose, it was simple but pretty, and she really was gunning for that flock of white doves one morning! She played openly usually, for the children or other members who drifted by on her lunch break, anyone who just happened to be near… But she had never once had the applause and she blushed, inclining her head softly with a smile, setting it in her lap for the moment. “I’ve had it for years but I can’t remember how or where I got it. I sort of figured it out as I went and I’ve been playing it ever since, its sort of like a mix between a recorder and a piano hence it’s unique sound, and it definitely does look different.” She said with laughter in her voice before waving him forward and pressing it into his hand. “You won’t break it, I promise.” She said warmly as she guided him through it, laughing softly as she helped him figure out what went where and how hard to blow, the rudiments of the instrument and how to play it. It was fun for her to show him, she was never mean or mocking, she just walked him through it with easy patience and a lot of smiles. At the end he managed really well, and told him that he could now play an instrument, so he had another notch on his belt of accomplishments. Honestly he did really well, he followed instructions easily and while he needed to work on his breathing with the instrument, if he were to try that song on a piano? She had a feeling he would do really, really well. “It was my pleasure. You’re really not bad you know, you could easily get the hang of it if you wanted to, so if you ever want to try? Just let me know and I’ll lend you mine.” She would gladly teach him how to play if that was what would enrich his life a little more, make him happy or lighten his day, just so long as he wanted to.



She had him turn around for her then and began to rub his shoulders and neck for him, she had seen how he had been sleeping and she could only imagine just how much he hurt even after a soak, and since she was feeling in much better condition than him? She wanted to help. She heard his soft sounds, moving up to his neck when his head dipped forward a bit, taking advantage of the stretched out muscles so she could work on them easier. Her lips curled in a smile at his words and she wondered if he'd realize this felt pretty good for her too, it was altruistic yes that was true, but that didn’t mean she didn’t take some level of pleasure at having his muscular form under her fingers… A chance to really explore his tattoo’s… Of course she noticed the bite and how well it had healed, unaware she had lulled him into such a state that his gears didn’t catch right away, her lips curling into a warm smile. “Kit has a really awful big mouth… I wouldn’t have known otherwise but I’m glad she’s a gabbermouth … Besides, if our roles were reversed, you’d have been there to help me. It’s what friends do. “ Of course… She had no idea of friends did what they did last night, but she’d never had a friend before so she wasn’t about to cast stones on a lot, she would just roll with it. After all, there was no guarantee last night wasn’t a one night thing, and she wouldn’t chase it down… She just held it like a bright bubble in her mind and left it there… Beautiful to recall, magical and special, but not something that was bound to be repeated. She continued to rub his neck and shoulders, every time he moaned she made sure to pay special attention to the area, even more so when he trembled under her fingers. It was… Kind of empowering in a way, knowing she could make him feel so good with something as simple as her hands on his skin, and it was a dangerous sort of rush for sure… Something she could get addicted to and she already had a stack of those against him… He really was a dangerous drug…



She had to ask a little while later if he would help, and she knew it might be a weird question indeed, but she had no one else she trusted to talk about it with. She was totally and completely unprepared and unfamiliar with the path before her and when he replied she honestly didn’t blame him at all, she figured that might be the possible outcome, and she had somewhat prepared in advance for it. “It’s ok, I thought that might be the case and that’s alright, nothing ventured nothing gained right? I’ve never been to the festival of the heart, I avoid it like the plague to be fair, I’m trying to remain anonymous as long as I can.” She said with a laugh. She knew about the lust dust after all, and she could only imagine how that would be at such a festival, especially when they went full tilt like that one. She was still a virgin after all and she wasn’t about to throw it to the crowd like a wedding bouquet to sleep with who ever caught it. She tilted her head when he said he knew someone who might help, someone from a place called Shimmershine, her brows rising. “I’ve never heard of it but help is much welcomed… I seriously have no idea what I’m doing so I’m not even treading water.” Any help would be welcome so long as she didn’t get dressed up in something absolutely ridiculous and pointless… A sad thing she feared might just happen because she literally had no idea what any of this was about let alone how to go about it… Literally what DID girls wear? She let the thoughts roll around in her head for a while as she continued to rub and massage him until he was fully relaxed and ready to get out, latching those low hanging trunks and how muscular his legs were, feeling a bit of a pang of anger that she hadn’t gotten to explore them herself… Stupid interrupting cow… She had to shake the thoughts from her brain before she said she was heading out, picking everything up behind her so he could lounge at his leisure, a wry smile on her lips when he said not to let them push her around. “Pushy I can handle… But I really hope they don’t try to slap me with stuff I’ll never use because it’s de rigure for a lady… I have no interest in frilly things and gewgaws but I know they’ll try regardless.” She ended with a sigh but laughed all the same, honestly yes it was a little nerve wracking but that wasn’t always a bad thing, it just made it… Different. Besides she was pretty good at being able to say no and putting her foot down when she needed to, so she was sure she could come out at least somewhat ok… Hopefully. She settled down and studied a while longer while he drip dried and enjoyed the sun before she had to call time and packed up, telling him she was heading to the store and would be home in time to start dinner, and that he should relax… She didn’t want to sound like a nag but she was learning, and had a pretty good idea, that unless someone made him stop he’d go on for quite some time. She missed the look he had on his face as she left, she was more focused on making sure she got everything in order, making a mental list of the what have yous that she needed and the like before heading out.



While Jacob slept she had one hell of a shock and not the fun kind either, being told things she needed and knowing better than that, no one needs bleeding bobby pins! She knew the measuring thing had to happen, otherwise nothing would really fit and that alone would have made the whole thing pretty pointless, so she went behind that screen without objection… Though object she did several times behind it as they sort of man-handled her in a way, touching everywhere and that made her outrageously uncomfortable, especially when the one person she had let touch her was asleep in his room right now. She had her waist measured and had more than a few comments about it, so dainty and perfect, the ideal 20 inches that women corset the hell out of themselves to get… She had nice hips too, far from huge but at a 32 she definitely had them, and all hidden easily under old boys clothes that revealed not a damn thing. She was petit but far from too thin, that dancers body with smooth long muscles and curves, not a drop of excess fat but just enough distributed in all the right places… Like her bust, which though small was high and perfectly set, that beautiful teardrop shape with a perky lift that every woman wants but so few have. It was there she drew the line and began to smack at hands, needing something or not she was NOT ok with that, telling them to knock it off. It was then that this little pink creature popped out of nowhere and saved the day, about as tall as her maybe, it was hard to say… The shock of bright pink pair, the wings and little feet, the high pretty voice… She had seen pixies… But never one that big. She tried not to step away, honestly it wasn’t because she was rude, more so she was still sort of on defensive mode and not wanting any touchy touchy going on. Yet that all shifted just a little when she really was there for the rescue and shifted away those ladies who seemed far too intent on making her beyond vastly uncomfortable. “Thank you…” She said as she had her hand taken and lead out from behind the screen, taking a breath and letting it out slowly, that whole thing had left her feeling like she was drowning a bit.



In the brighter lights of the store she got a good look at her, seeing some of the elvish features mixed with a pixie, which explained the size but… Oh Gosh… Who did who because the size difference… But then again there were half dragons and so… Yeah… Wasn’t the first time a size difference duo came out… She noted the pale green eyes and with such bright pink hair and pale skin she really was a beautiful woman, though quite active, very much so… She tried her best to keep up, struggling for a bit before she likened it to a child’s sort of happy though somewhat hyper behavior and it just clicked for her then, made it a lot easier to handle without feeling overwhelmed. “I… Don’t think they meant to… I don’t think they get many elves and were more um… Curious maybe? Though I have to admit that was the most uncomfortable moment of my life… It’s good to know then that’s not normal or I think I might never shop again…” Of course that was still a pretty strong option given just how traumatic the first half of this had been. When she mentioned she was here to help on behalf of a mutual friend, her head tilted until she mentioned Jacobs name, and she suddenly knew what he meant about his friend. “Oh! You’re from Shimmershine! He mentioned you earlier yes, he is a very good friend of mine, I’m glad he was able to get in touch with you.” Jacob really had a thousand layers to him, and it made her smile to think of just all these amazing things she was learning about him, and how much there was left to explore. She realized she was sporting a sort of dreamy smile in a moment and rearranged her facial features quickly, nodding her head when she asked if help was needed, a big trip coming up. “Yes, it’s a very large city and Jacob has invited me to join him on a lecture. I need a few days worth of clothes that can fit in there, and something that won’t well, embarrass him to be seen with me. If… That makes sense? And I guess um… Underthings too? I didn’t realize those are sort of… Prerequisite… Like you know… Standard?” She said, tugging on a portion of her hair, a bit embarrassed at having been incredibly lacking so much in her life. Honestly, she just thought underwear were for special occasions or something, she didn’t know going commando was incredibly rare… She watched her summon that paper and the poor plants in the store suddenly went into a vivacious blooming, biting her lip and trying to keep things under control, thankfully no one noticed…



At her words though she blinked a bit and ended up laughing just a little. “You are unlike anyone I have met Anouk… My name is Rose, and it’s nice to meet you, or is it to be assisted by you? Either way, thank you.” She said warmly before Anouk reached out to touch her face and she realized the little pink bubble of energy before her smelled just like a pastry bakery… It made her blink and take another soft sniff to confirm it but there it was… She smelled like candy and sweet things, which she had never encountered before, making her blink in surprise a bit. That surprise melted into flushing cheeks as she blushed and looked down, she still wasn’t used to the compliment, and she’d certainly never heard it from another woman. “Thank you, you’re quite pretty too, and you smell like a confectioners dream…” She wondered if Anouk went around and enslaved poor bakers with her sweet smell because honestly, who could blame her if she did, cute as she was and smelling sweet like that? It would be far too much fun to make an army of bakers you could call the Dough Boys. When she was released she touched her cheeks and wondered if freckles were like a beauty mark or something with elves? She had seen a few but none had her freckles but they weren’t exactly common with humans so she figured as much would be the same with elves… Maybe more so? But she honestly had no idea but just might ask about it. She stood by silently as Anouk went through the pile and honestly she was glad for it, because she wouldn’t have known if anything in that pile suited her or not, let alone if it was even age appropriate. They could have slapped her with some granny panties and she wouldn’t have known the difference. She paused once or twice with some of the same items, colors like burnt orange or stunning crimson, black lace and satin or soft pretty cream colors… Colors like peaches or mint… Honestly she was pretty open between the softer colors and innocent whites to bright vivid jewel tones and such for her underclothes, holding them up between her fingers and looking at their construction, disappearing behind the screen and pulling off her shirt and laying it over the side. She had to fumble a little bit but she sorted it out, the straps and everything and poor Anouk would only see the tips of very red ears but dead silence behind the screen, pulling her shirt back on… She didn’t need one for support it was simply modesty but she had no idea that it could make things look so… Different. She went to the pile and pulled out the matching bottoms and disappeared again, sliding them on and tuning side to side, realizing that for such a small bit of fabric those things really changed a lot of things… She came out with that blush still on her cheeks while Anouk said she had a figure and to show it off… Ok… That was hard. “B-but… Anouk… It’s… Is it even proper for a virgin to show things like that?... Please don’t laugh but I have no idea… I just always figured things more… Um… You know were for… Ladies… Like… Married ladies and things… Or… Who are looking for husbands or… I just… I don’t want to send the wrong message…” She stalled out a few times, her cheeks flaming but if Anouk said it was ok, she would take her advice… “I don’t know about genetics, I’m the ugly duckling but thank you…” Honestly she had pink hair, green eyes, and smelled like candy… Where was her lacking, seriously? She was running her finger through the under things that were softer than anything she had ever owned, hell the set she had on felt sinful and kept making her blush whenever she realized it was there with a certain movement, and she honestly had no idea how in the world most women didn’t go around blushing all the time.



She went through the dressed and most of them got tossed as well, seen as too stuffy or dated, or hell even too old for someone as young as she was… There was several sets of shirts and shirts, showing off how little her waist was without revealing too much, a happy medium between what Anouk thought was best and what made her feel more comfortable… For the evening dresses though? She gave Anouk free reign and even got one corset since it would make Anouk smile to see her having one and one of the dresses picked out would need it. Without it? The whole thing would fall right off! But that dress that Anouk insisted on? Her heart skipped around hard as she touched the incredibly soft chiffon and silk lace, the streamlined body hugging shape of it before it flared out, and the color… A deep red that made her feel like it was far too luscious to actually go home with her but Anouk was insisting… Almost pushy but not quite, saying it was made for her and had to come home with her right now or it would shrivel up, which just made her laugh and give in. She let Anouk lead for the rest of the time, she just gave up, for such a small pink haired thing she had all the strength of riptide and dragged her down. She was given several bits of jewelry, earrings and chokers, statement necklaces and bangles… The shoes too, she had originally only picked out two pairs of shoes but she ended with several boxes, Anouk swearing a woman could never have too many shoes or accessories… She got a few clutches, a couple new purses, several sets of gloves… By the end she was looking at the probable tally and said a sorrowful goodbye to her savings because she was sure that one red dress alone cost enough to eat at least half of it, but when Anouk said it was already paid for, pushing her money away gently she sort of freaked out. “Wait, what?! Anouk! Who? How?!” She was asking, afraid of the cost that someone else had now bit, and it made her feel terrible. Instead Anouk simply kissed her cheek and disappeared and she ended up taking a hard seat on the cushion… Who had done something THAT kind for her?... She could only think of two people, and since she didn’t see Anouk pay for anything, yeah… That left one… She had no idea what to even think, she just sat in shock, surrounded by cherry scented smoke… Everything was being packed up and she was glad because she probably couldn’t have handled it if her life depended on it… Instead she stood, feeling the odd card in her pocket, taking it out with a head tilt… Turning her head to see the writing on the back and she laughed. Ok… Maybe it was Anouk after all… To which case how in the world do you pay back a pixie? They existed for big gardens and peanut butter, right? She didn’t have a garden and she definitely didn’t have any peanut butter…



She stood while they continued to pack, it was a LOT of stuff, and no way in the world she could carry it herself. She would order a handsom on her way out, choosing to take a bit of a walk to clear her head, remembering Jacobs enjoyment of the tea she headed to the little shop she used to work at. She was such a familiar feature there they just smiled and waved, letting her walk into the back to make up a few tins, a couple for Jacob and one for the poor doctor who had fallen ill. For Jacob she kept to the black teas, and since she was at the shop she had access to the leaves that had been coated and dried in bergamot orange rind oil, along with several notes of orange pekoe and a few young tea leaves from a blend that had a nice light citrus taste on its own… The second one was definitely for sleep, blending together lemon balm and peppermint, fennel seeds and rose petals, lavender and licorice root… She also found the dried honey crystals and added them to the mix, carefully crushing them under mortar until they had the ideal tea consistency, sealing up the tins for him before paying for them and heading out… Stashing them in a simple little brown box that would appear completely inconspicuous… She had the tea for the Doctor in a much more traditional bag from the store so Jacob would know which was private and which was a gift. She was heading down the street a bit more, looking for a handsom when she saw that little pocket watch in the window, only it wasn’t a watch which was what won her over entirely. She went inside to examine it, the lid flipped open to play the melody, a little music box… The tune was soft and sweet, and she could imagine how much Jacob would enjoy it, able to pull it out and wind it up when he had some down time… Holding music in his pocket… How much brighter would that make his day? She had to get it, not even bothering to mind the cost of it, packing it up in its small velvet pouch before slipping it into the box with the tea. She found that handsom at the end and had everything loaded up into it, needing the drivers help at the manse to bring everything upstairs, glad no one saw her… Jacob was busy with something, she could hear his laughter and she smiled brightly, glad that the nap and soak seemed to have helped him a good deal. She had the now mountain of boxes put on her bed before the man left after she paid his fee and tip for the help, heading back downstairs to start dinner, Ellen coming up behind her to gripe at her… Given her day even Ellen couldn’t piss in her teacup, and when Dr. Faelon spoke up for her, she hid the smile as she apologized to Ellen and dinner would be done soon. As Ellen beat a shocked and hasty retreat back upstairs, she popped her head out of the kitchen and shot Faelon a salute with a bright and sunny smile, heading back in and getting dinner finished up in good order. Between that though she brought Jacob another cup of tea before dinner, the little cupcake from Vivian before she left to finish up, she honestly would have made one for Faelon but she hadn’t seen him drink tea. What she did see? Was what she snuck out for him, a glass of whiskey on the rocks with a bit of crushed mint at the bottom, sneaking it to his side as well before returning. Would Rincavornon ever get that treatment from her? Do pigs fly? The only special treatment he would get from her would be an IV drip if he was dehydrated. Even then? Only after intentionally missing his vein once or twice…



When dinner was finished she brought up a plate she portioned out for Jacob, keeping in mind what he hadn’t finished last night so that tonight’s plate was perfectly portioned for him. She made her own plate and set them down for them, pulling out a bottle of iced elvish wine and two glasses, pouring one for her and Jacob as she settled down… She paused, looking over the notes they had on the board, taking a bite of her dinner as she looked at what they had… There was something there but it was missing… Like a mother and father without a child… She realized that if they only ran it in a set it wouldn’t work… They needed a binding agent… Angelica was a plant, oloth’arr was a fungus… So the two were of a different chemical compound which was why they were having a hard time getting them to make friends… Bit like fire and metal… But some metals can combust perfectly in water, she just had to find out what the ‘water’ would be in this equation, tapping her chin as her mind went down that path. She took another bite of dinner before taking a sip of her wine, nearly choking on it when he asked about her shopping trip, coughing and laughing all at the same time as she set her plate and glass to the side. She dapped her lips before speaking, a wry smile on her lips, looking at him across the chair a bit. “She was pink and smelled like a bakers day dream…” She knew he would catch on that she meant Anouk, who else could be described as that? Of course remembering that just reminded her of what she had on under her clothes, her smile morphing into something secret and surprisingly feminine, a light blush dusting her cheeks for a moment. “She saved the day, your friend Miss Anouk, came in right at the nick of time… She’s quite a shock, a bubble of happy energy and a lot of force behind all that cuteness, she had me off my center for a minute to be honest. Still, she helped me out a good deal, though she left before she answered a question I had… She said my clothes had been paid for and she picked me out a WHOLE lot more than just what I was going to get for the trip, plus all sorts of shoes and girl fixings… My room is a massive monster of new clothes I need to put away… And I have no idea who to thank for it… Or why someone would be that nice to me when outside of you and now Miss Anouk… Do you have any ideas?” A brow rose as she wondered if he had been the one to do it, and she would wait for an answer before she would return to her wine and dinner, turning the page in her book slowly as he spoke, her smile still in place as she answered. “Miss Vivian, yes, she came earlier when you were sleeping. She’s very sweet but I wouldn’t say she has bad timing… I get the very distinct feeling she knows quite a bit… She doesn’t want to take your time up I think, but she leaves you little treats to let you know your thought of, which I think is incredibly sweet. I like her.” She said with a nod as she frowned a bit, switching the anatomy book out for the herbology one, her mind wouldn’t focus on anything else until she sorted it out. “Thank you Jacob, that’s a really wonderful thing to hear, it’s good to know that my cooking is something you like. It’s nothing fancy just chicken in cream of mushroom soup over rice… It’s a comfort food and I figure we all need that, especially with the trip tomorrow, having a nice warm meal always helps people to sleep well.” And with luck, be too sleepy to start bumping uglies and allow her some quiet time in the library without hearing the thump overhead, which was the one reason she hadn’t gone in there yet.



She was about half way through her plate, one glass of wine down and starting on another before she stood up and walked over to the board, book in one hand and chalk in the other… She began to write down Oloth’arr’s chemical make up and which way to derive the properties they wanted while trying to avoid the others, such as keeping the nervous system open but keeping them from being paralyzed or blacking out, both of which could be terrifying to someone already sick… She made notes that the less pleasant effects come from the oils in the actual flesh, pointing out that if they dried the plant and ground it up into a powder, they could limit the paralization and black out side effect… Adding in Angelica root pulp as a sort of paste to blend with it gave it the carrying power to be absorbed into the body at a deeper level and assist in the healing process, but then the issue came around about how to purge both the Oloth’arr and the virus, which is what was one of the hang ups… It has to be purged at some point… She was pacing back and forth, setting the book down as she picked up her wine glass, wracking her brain for something… Something she had read… Something she had learned… She was obviously well inside her own head, wearing a path in the wood under silent footfalls, tapping her nail on the end of her glass as she went over several things… Each time dismissing them… Before she stopped… She paused, her brain had lit on something, and she turned to the board and began to jot things down in a flurry. Thankfully her writing was always neat even rushed… It mentioned that powdered and dried Oloth’arr when blended with refined and pulped angelica root created a bonding to allow them to treat the dwarven immune system and open it up to treatments to help them get well, but stated that without purging the Oloth’arr from their system they ran the risk of building up a sort of toxic hang over from the mushroom. The cure for this? Mix the angelica and Oloth’arr with raw aged ginger root and anise seed, causing profuse sweating that allowed the body to naturally purge both the side effects of oloth’arr as well as assist in the detoxification of the body itself. “If we can do this and concentrate it enough to make it possible to deliver it in a small unit, we can deliver these treatments while having them rest in tubs fed from the hot springs, using it’s natural minerals and regenerative properties to not only help them relax but assist in the entire purging system… Like when you have a fever and you sweat it out, it’s how we naturally remove viruses and toxins from our body, but on a much stronger scale for the dwarves immune system…” She said, stepping back and looking at the board, taking another drink of the wine as she looked it over… “If it’s possible though… I mean they would have to both go through some extreme refinements, they would have to be purified and then blended together with the right equation, too much of one or the other makes it useless… Then I have no idea what it’s shelf life would be and then there’s testing… And it might be too much to ask to change the piping in one of the rooms at the hospital… But… If it works… The hospital would become a sort of mecca for those suffering from ailments we couldn’t treat before… I was thinking specifically of the dwarven system but the more I look at this the more I see we could use it for every race… I-…” She said on a sigh, stepping away with her wine glass, flopping down into the seat and settling in with her dinner again. “Who am I kidding really? Sitting here thinking like I know something. I’m sorry… I let my mind run away with me for a minute…”



She went back to her dinner and polished it off, finishing her glass of wine before packing up her books, rubbing her eyes sleepily. Yeah… Her battery was dead now and she was fading fast, especially with a nice full belly and a couple of glasses of wine, admittedly pouring herself a third to bring up with her. She put her dishes in the sink, and took any Jacob or Dr. Faelon might have had with her, setting them in the soapy sink for Luna to wash because it was her chore. She came back out to pick up her books and carry them under her arm, wishing everyone down a good night and heading up to her room, unlocking the door and slipping in. She was unpacking her clothes, hanging them up and still in a bit of shock at the fact she now had a ladies closet, setting aside the ones she would wear to the lecture… Her two candy striper uniforms… Shoes and the like… She had to use one of the trunks that had somehow gotten snuck into her things but not that she was complaining, packing it all up nearly before closing it, setting out her outfit for tomorrow before sinking down into bed. She took off her regular baggy clothes and revealed one of the sets that had enchanted her enough to make her snatch it up and wear home… It was a lovely orange shade and looked amazing against her skin, but what it was made out of was barely anything at all, strips of satin and lace… Transparent all the way around and felt so light and natural on her skin it had been like nothing at all, at least unless she moved a certain way, and then the way the lace brushed against her? Was entirely too addictive… She walked out to her balcony with the glass in her hand, the chill of the air as the sun began to set made her shiver with a few special little memories, a smile on her face as she just let her somewhat foggy mind drift a bit… She finished her glass and set it on the desk to take down tomorrow morning, crawling into bed with nothing but those panties and bralet on, yawning as she stretch out… She was just drifting off, virtually on the edge of sleep when she heard her doorknob turning… Admittedly her heart skipped in her chest and she felt that warm melting butter feeling sinking into her bones, that tingle spreading along her skin, rolling up into her breasts to make her nipples hard… Jacob was coming to her and she had on something so delicious he wouldn’t be able to help himself surely… She was biting her lip and trying not to moan, reaching her hand out over the top of her bead, fingers curling. “Please... I want you too…” She whispered, waiting for him to take her hand and come into bed with her, expecting… Hoping… Wishing for another night like the last but one that wouldn’t end so poorly…

He didn’t take her hand though but she felt a hand encase her breast and she knew the second he touched her it wasn’t Jacob. She instantly opened her eyes and saw Rincavornon over her, erect and fondling her breasts, and her first reaction was a scream as she pushed out as hard as she could and scrambled from the bed and desperately kept it between them. “GET OUT!” She screamed at him before he just grinned and made a lunge for her, as if she had somehow invited him into some sort of game, and if that was what he thought? He was out of his mind! She skirted around the bed, keeping it between them and out of his grasp, edging towards the door before making a run for it. She opened it just as he reached for her, picking her up under his arm like some freakish brute Drow on a raid and yeah no, that was NOT going to fly with her! She reached down and picked up the first thing she touched and slammed it against his head with all her might, hearing wood crack and splinter while ivory keys hit the floor... She had knocked him out sure enough, feeling him drop her unceremoniously so she ended up hitting the wood in a belly flop that left her wheezing, stars in her eyes for a moment. Before anyone could come up and see her in nothing but a damn pair of underwear she ran back to her room and threw on the first thing she touched... Jacobs shirt from the night before and drew it on like a dress, storming back out there to kick his freaking ass before she saw what had happened...

Her melodica...

She just sort of stopped in her tracks then and her knees went out under her, reaching out and carefully picking up the broken parts of her instrument, unaware of the silent tears streaking down her face. She had broken it on his head to keep him from doing god knew what but... Was it worth it? Rape she could get over but her Melodica... It had been hers since she was little, been through thick and thin with her, she'd learned how to cope with all sorts of things through music... And now it was gone... Before she knew it she was crying in broken little sobs and wiping her face on the sleeves of Jacobs shirt, hiccuping and shaking and a general bit of a mess, unaware that anyone might be there... And who came? Kit of all people... She wasn't ready for that sort of face off and she just bent to give in but what happened next shocked her, Kit knew an attempt when she saw one and the fact that Rincavernon was laying there knocked out and hard as a rock and stinking like a liquor cabinet didn't exactly help matters, and seeing the fact Rose was a broken mess and had a couple of bruises on her legs from when he had pinned her to the door? Yeah she could put two and two together.  "Stay here Rose, I'm going to get Dr. Anikin and we'll sort this out, alright?"  Strange, wasn't it? Kit's change of heart? Maybe not so much when you realize Kit was aware that Luna had spiked Rincavernon's drink with some pretty potent stuff to really cause him up, let alone the fact that Luna had been feeding him little lies all day about how she heard how Rose wanted to fuck him... Or the fake love note that Kit found that asked Rincavernon to come and fuck her in her room after dinner... Yeah... Maybe Kit finally realized that Luna was a seriously bad person to be around and was perhaps having a change of heart. She simply nodded and sat there on the floor with her knees on the carpet, holding the remains of her melodica in her lap while she tried to get herself under control.

[Deleted]

..it had been an interesting day to say the least.. whilst relaxing in parts.. quite busy and filled in others.. he had the chance to take that dip in the heated pools.. to spend some time with her..talking about all and nothing.. musing on medical history and then of course her instrument playing skills.. the melodica certainly intrigued him.. not something he had seen before.. let alone touched.. the day wore on and she headed off into the village to purchase some day wear.. or so he figured.. he wasn't one to really understand womens fashion.. just wasn't his thing.. he had a friend though who he figured would be ideal in such a situation.. and with a click of a few fingers.. a scratching of pen to paper.. the message would be delivered..he hoped it would get to Anouk in time.. though he couldn't be certain..giving the young wee thing a few instructions on what was required.. what was needed..

he himself took a bit of a cat nap in his room.. nodding off easily within the cane chair that hung from the ceiling.. it was just infinitelymore comfortable than that of a bed.. at least for sleeping sake.. a little more refreshed he would move down into the main lounge section of the manor proper.. calling upon Faelon.. he needed to bounce a few ideas off someone.. and who better than someone with a lot of brains.. Faelon was incredibly intelligent.. and whilst the two of them were evenly matched.. he always felt Faelon was his better.. every time.. they stood there.. a chalk board before them.. potions.. equations.. ingredients.. all listed as they mulled and mused.. as they theorised..scratching heads.. and frustration a plenty.. though not enough to make either of them upset or annoyed.. just enough to spurn them on to Want to succeed.. the need to figure it all out..

he caught a glimpse of her when she came back down from upstairs.. not having noticed when she first came in.. he'd offer her a smile.. a fleeting glance before he turned back to the board there.. Faelon pointing something out so the pair rubbed off a great deal of what they had just spent the better part of an hour preparing.. Ellen stuck her nose in then.. making sharp comments about the timing of the dinner being cooked before Faelon pulled the girl back into line.. reminding her there was study to be done that was perhaps a touch more important than that of what was in the oven.. Ellen scurried off a little more than embarrassed..

Faelon nodded his head to her in response to her little salute there before he turned back toward the board.. scrawling more equations across it.. his head tilted a touch when she came out.. placing a cup of tea beside him there.. though he didn't notice the cake just yet.. -.. Thank you Rose.. -he would offer her another smile there.. he reached for the cup.. taking a small drink from it before he shifted from the arm of the chair to approach the board once more.. drawing a line from one side to the other.. rubbing out something.. adding another..Faelon lifted his glass to her.. more than pleased that she was taking such initiative.. -Aye.. Thankyou Miss Rose.. -he would call out to her.. before his attention would return to the board once more..

the pair of them rubbing their chins.. fingers sliding back through hair .. wearing perplexed looks.. Dinner would be what would call it though.. the ending of this.. at least for the moment.. Faelon placed his chalk down and headed off toward the kitchen.. patting Jacobs shoulder making a remark like 'They'd figure it out sooner or later.. there was merit in it for sure'.. he laughed and nodded.. turning back to the board as he took another drink from the cup.. savouring the taste as it settled upon his tongue there.. sharply pointed ears twitched a little to the sounds of the plates connecting with the table.. even though it would have been such a gentle action.. he turned his head.. watching as she poured the wine.. -.. Ah!.. how did your shopping trip go?..

-he placed his cup back down upon the saucer there.. turning to settle properly upon the chair beside her as he drew his meal a little closer to him.. the plate coming down to rest upon his lap.. he blinked when she almost choked at his question though.. a questioning look crossed his features.. before her response had him smiling-.. mmm.. now.. what was it.. -he thought about it for a moment.. picking up the glass there as he took a small drink of the wine-.. Fashion is my passion?.. -he laughed-.. she's something alright.. I'm glad she got the message in time.. I wasn't sure if she would.. it had to travel a fair way..wonderful.. -he nodded.. placing the glass down as he tucked into the bit of that deliciously scented meal.. he glanced across to her every so often as she spoke.. regaling him on the tale of her shopping jaunt.. and just how much Anouk had helped her.. and bringing back as much as she did.. he nodded his head-.. Well.. it sounds like you had a wonderful time.. and got what you needed.. -he ignored her question all together about who might have been the one to thank for it all.. who would have perhaps funded it.. as a new wardrobe of that size would have been a substantial fund afterall.. he did notice the cupcake then and he threw that curve ball in to change the subject.. -.. It's a shame I missed her.. I like to thank her for all that she does.. in person.. she's so quick when she visits.. -he sunk back in his seat a little-.. sometimes I am lucky enough to catch her.. but more often than not.. i am just left with one of those tins.. -he laughed a little-.. I will have to catch up with her when I go home this Winter..

-he nodded as if he was making a mental note of it-.. someones got to return those tins of hers..I sware she must have cupboards and cupboards of them.. She's an old family friend.. I dont like to use the term old.. as she's really not .. or at least she doesn't act it.. ive just known her my entire life.. -he turned back to the food there.. taking a few more bites..-.. this is delicious.. -he offered her a smile.. it was just what he needed really.. an empty spot would be filled in that belly of his.. he just knew it..-

.. Oh!.. -he placed the plate down on the table before him.. turning to face her there.. -.. Before I forget.. It was something I just realised before.. and Faelon reminded me of it also.. for tomorrow.. if you are still coming.. You dont need the striper uniform.. no.. -he shook his head-.. you arent a striper.. you're a student Doctor.. -he reached for the glass once more.. taking a small drink-.. there is a uniform.. a white coat and so on.. whatever you feel comfortable in.. there are a few options.. but.. not a striper no.. -he shook his head.. - not that there is anything wrong with a striper.. or even a nurse.. but thats not what you are.. not anymore..

-he placed his glass down there as he watched her rise suddenly and make her way toward the board.. his brow rose.. he himself sat up onto the arm of the chair to watch her curiously.. his arms crossing there about his chest as she paced back and forth a little.. her notes were added to the board.. and she began to explain her theory involving the hot springs.. tanks.. the natural minerals.. purification.. and how it could be used on a larger scale.. especially for those like Dwarves whos ailments were harder to treat.. especially when it came to drow made poisons.. before she more or less threw her hands up.. apologised and sunk back down on her seat defeated.. -.. hmmm.

.-he slowly rose from his chair there.. moving around the table there as he came to stand before the chalk board.. seeing where she had connected the dots there..silence settled.. for what appeared to be the longest time.. was he in agreeance that she really had no idea? Faelon came back into the room for the moment.. his whisky glass in hand as he came back up to the board.. seeing the new sets of notes added to the board there.. he rubbed out one small section.. and a small equation took its place.. very minor.. like a number pattern reversed.. before he shot his hands up.. patting Jacob on the shoulder-.. You Did it!.. Thats it!.. Thats all it needed!..

-he blinked there.. holding his hands up-.. mmm.. no.. no I didn't.. -Faelon looked confused there.. as if wtf?.. Jacob turned and motioned to her seated across from them both-.. it was Rose.. she found the final piece of the puzzle.. credit where credits due my good man.. -he laughed and nodded.. Faelon turned to face her there-. Well!.. why am I not surprised.. smart girl you are.. -he held out his hand to shake hers-.. Incredible Rose.. Well done.. We wil have to look further into getting this into some form of production when we get back from Narius.. I trust you are coming along yes?.. -he would nod.. shaking her hand if she accepted his-.. So much to be learnt.. plus.. -he lowered his voice a little-.. we have to back our boy up here.. -he motioned with a thumb gesture to Jacob-.. he'l be thrown to the wolves otherwise.. -Jacob shook his head-.. Oh hush.. really.. -he laughed..

Faelon returned to the kitchen.. though before he did .. standing beside the door there.. he was sure to call out to her-.. Excellent work Rose.. keep it up.. -.. it was something to light a but of a fire under all the other students asses..whilst everyone in that house had potential.. only a few it would seem were actually using it.. he smiled nodded his head.. turning to her there-.. Well done indeed.. -he bowed his head to her-.. that has had us both stumped for the better part of the day.. just goes to show.. a fresh pair of eyes and determination was all it took..-he sunk back down to finish off the meal there.. noticing she was fading quite quickly.. -.. you should go rest if you need to.. bit of a trip tomorrow.. kind of need everyone up and awake at least for the getting ready part in the morning.. can sleep if you desire it in the carriage..

-she went to take the dishes and he held his hand up..sending her off to bed.. he could handle it surely.. she wasn't his maid afterall..he wished her a good night.. watching as she headed back up those stairs before he gathered up those few plates.. cups and the like and he moved into the kitchen to take care of those.. washing each one.. sliding them onto the drying rack.. Faelon came up beside him.. the two just idly chatting about the journey that was to come.. more so about the business side of it all..

what the talk was about.. wether or not he was fully prepared.. he felt he was.. in at least he had a million notes.. though his memory was sublime and never ever let him down.. his material was pretty much in order.. he just needed to go talk with the original speaker.. the pair of them knew nothing of what was going on upstairs.. as just like she had asked of him.. her room was completely warded.. no sound came in.. no sound emitted out.. she could have screamed bloody murder.. nothing.. he made sure everything was off in the kitchen.. bidding the girls on faelons team a good night.. before he returned to the lounge..

he made mental notes of that which they had discussed.. the marrying of the two ingredients.. and the way in which it would no doubt have to be trailed.. a few sketches in his notepad.. he heard the thud though.. something hit the deck.. making his eyebrow raise.. his head turn toward the staircase.. but.. he dismissed it early on.. probably just someone falling out of bed.. he continued his sketching then.. drawing lines here and there.. small thought bubbles of things she had said.. things to jog his memory.. about the springs and the filtration..tapping his chin with the pencil there as he went to close the book..hearing hurried footsteps coming down the stairs there..

before Kits voice would ring out.. he exhaled softly.. not really wanting to deal with this particular young woman right now..before in her sped up jumble of words she managed to get out that Rose had just been attacked by Rincavornon.. that she'd been raped.. his heart seized in his chest in that moment.. he turned to glance toward her there.. everything seemed to slow.. it would have felt like an eternity when in reality it was in the matter of a blink of an eye.. he rounded that couch and dashed past her a lot damn faster than any human could move.. those stairs were done.. over with as he just about slid when he hit one of the mats on the third floor ..

catching sight of her there upon her knees.. sobbing her skin clearly bruised.. she was wearing his shirt.. though it was drawn around her firm enough for it to act more like a short dress.. his heart ached.. though he visibly bristled when he caught sight of Rincavornon's feet there.. he was practically naked.. just a flimsy pair of shorts.. his blood just about boiled.. Kit came scurrying up stairs soon after.. Faelon not far behind.. Luna.. Ellen all skirting the shadows there.. watching like hawks.. -.. Kit.. Faelon.. please.. -he spoke through almost clenched teeth.. motioning for them to tend to Rose.. he knew.. he had to make that choice there.. and it was probably the bad one.. but he was so wound from it all.. he was so filed with anger.. that his head was not in the right space..

Faelon and Kit dashed to her there.. -.. Comeon Miss Rose.. -the good Doctors voice would ring out.. ushering her gently to her feet.. his gestures were soft and almost gentle.. he didn't want to startle her.. almost treating her with kid like gloves.. Kit looked to her apologetically.. helping to pick up the pieces of her broken instrument.. -.. Its ok.. we can get it fixed.. Im sure we can.. -she nodded vehemently.. looking to the good Doctor.. then over her shoulder to Ellen and Luna with almost dread.. catching sight of the finger to the lips gesture.. she'd probably be killed if she said anything.. the poor girl was so incredibly torn..

though what happened next.. no one in that house would have seen coming.. he approached Rincavornon there.. the poor drugged Dr slowly starting to come to.. reaching for his head as he groaned upon the hard floor boards-.. GET UP.. -Jacobs voice rang out through the upper level of the Manor.. it was deeper than usual.. it was stern and just had enough dominance in it to send chills down anyones spine-.. You worthless sack of shit.. Get the Hell up.. -he almost spat through his clenched teeth.. the doctor held his hands up.. as if in defence.. before Jacob leant down and dragged him up.. latching his fingers into that chunky gold necklace Rincavornon wore around his neck.. the doctor stumbled a little.. before he stood.. he was taller than Jacob.. and a quick glance at them both.. if one were betting.. they'd put their money on Rincavornon.. he was bigger.. though was he stronger?.. -


R- What the fuck man.. Whats your problem?!.. -he snapped and hissed there.. yanking the hold from his gold necklace giving Jacob a shove backwards-


J- Whats my problem?.. are you fucking serious?.. -he shoved Rincavornon right back.. watching the slightly drunk.. slightly drugged doctor just about lose his balance again as he hit one of the side tables in the hall..a vase going flying in the process-. What the Fuck?.. What right do you think you have putting your hands on her?..


R- he stumbled back and hit that table.. the vase smashed as it hit the hard wood floors.. -.. Are you PMS'ing Jacob?.. spending too much time with the women in the house.. Grow a pair.. Bit jealous that she wanted me and not you pretty boy?.. -he cracked his knuckled there.. slowly sobering up.. but it would be a while before those drugs made their way out of his system-.Yeah you're wife died.. how fucking long ago was that.. Bit sexually frustrated.. just need a good fuck.. Oh.. but thats right.. You almost got one didn't you.. -he laughed-. Fuck Off Kid.. -he'd take a swing for Jacob.. in his own head it'd only take one.. knock the stupid boy out and he could go back to taking what he was invited for-


J -he bristled at the wife remark.. at the whole ordeal.. everything about this was rubbing him the wrong way.. however.. the remarks about his wife.. and a then about Rose herself.. well that was the straw that broke the camels back.. and he just lost it.. when Rincavornon swung he ducked and shoved his fist right into the doctors gut.. winding him before he switched up and hit just beneath his jaw..- Dont you dare.. Dont you even think about it.. You spineless shell of a man.. The women in this house deserve better than You.. You're a pathetic Doctor.. Why anyone would desire to train under you.. I'll never know.. All ribbons.. All show.. no substance.. -a balled fist a quick right hook.. jaw.. nose..blood spattering the wall there-.. Weve had this discussion before.. -he breathed heavilly.. -.. Keep Your god damn hands off the women.. but no.. you couldn't do it.. Well no more. Thats it.. You're done.. I dont give a flying Fuck.. You're Done Rincavornon!


R- his first swing missed its mark and before he knew it he had a fist to the gut.. making him gasp as he was more or less winded..groaning.. though that was short lived when his jaw was just about broken.. he sliced into his own tongue with his teeth.. spitting out blood then.. maybe a tooth or two.. -.. Hit a nerve eh kid?..I remember your wife.. I remember the way she used to look at me -he growled through bloodied teeth-.. Im only here cause your pretty protege invited me.. So you can go fuck yourself.. -he smacked into the wall with the uppercut to the side of his cheek.. his chin.. blood streaming from his nose before he managed to clock Jacob in the eye.. once.. and then again.. missing the second though connecting with his cheek.. before he lost his own balance.. and he pulled Jacob down with him.. they both hit the floor hard..though he had Jacob beneath him at this stage.. he reached down ..wrapping his fingers about the boys throat-.. Jealousy is a curse boy.. it doesn't suit you.. -he drew his fingers in.. not enough to kill him but enough to send a message-


J- he refused to believe that Rose had invited him in.. that made no sense what so ever.. especially considering she had told him how many times just what she thought of Rincavornon..-.. You just cant help yourself.. gotta fuck everything that walks.. -he managed to get those few hits in.. there was more than enough blood splattered between them.. though most of it was Rincavornon's.. he wasn't expecting the punch to the eye and for a moment he saw a few stars.. causing him to stumble back a few steps.. and then the hit to his cheek.. before the pair of them went down like a tonne of bricks.. he groaned loudly.. hitting the hard wood was murder on the back of his head.. making him feel a bit on the lightheaded side.. but then the weight upon him and then those fingers round his neck.. he quickly rolled his head to the side.. so the grip wasn't on his wind pipe.. but more so on the muscles.. allowing him the ability to keep a semi clear head.. shifting his right foot out to lock the doctors in ..arm to forearm before he'd use his hip and what possible strength he had left to roll and flip the doctor over onto his back.. a punch to the forehead.. knocking Rincavornon out.. before he himself would slump back onto the flooring.. dazing in and out of consciousness.. -.. just.. just make.. just make sure she's ok..-he more or less pleaded before he fell silent-

Faelon wasn't entirely sure what he just witnessed.. there was no time for emotions in such a situation.. and thats where he shined.. -.. Ellen.. Luna.. Comeon girls.. time to be useful.. Check the doctors vitals.. someone get Dr Anikin onto his side before he chokes on his tongue.. try and get him conscious.. we dont want to be dealing with concussion.. -he looked to the girls as they seemed to just stand there.. as if frozen.. before he slapped his hands together loudly-.. NOW LADIES..-before him and Kit would turn back to her there.. -.. It's going to be ok Rose.. 

[BadInfluence]

She had snuck upstairs with all the things easily enough thankfully, able to deposit the sudden mountain of boxes tightly packed with clothes and pay the assistant before coming back down stairs, catching Jacob there as he saw her… Her heart would never sit still with him, it turned and jumped the moment he looked at her and smiled, her hand coming up in a little wave and a return smile before she went off into the kitchen. She was a bit on cloud nine to say the least, a happy mix between excitement at all she had gotten and eagerness to try one of them out, to see Jacobs face… What would he think when he saw her in something that fit? That was tailor made for her figure? Something that was soft and feminine and showed she could be just as lady like as anyone else… Would he like it? Would his eyes be drawn to things hidden under her clothes that he had seen in moonlight? Would he be proud to be seen with her? She might have tried desperately to hide in her clothes before but after Anouk’s assistance and a few thoughts on what she had said… She was glad she gave her reign and took her advice, because if she wanted to be seen by anyone, it was him…



Ellen had come in and been her usual self, and honestly nothing she did or said could burst her bubble today, but when Dr. Faelon came in and dragged Ellen into line it was nice… It helped a lot, actually, seeing that while they wouldn’t listen to her much at all? They did at least quickly step into line for the doctors… Maybe there was hope for them after all? She made Jacob a little cup of tea for him first, figuring if he was going into a good study session a little caffeine would really perk him up, not to mention he did say he liked it a lot. As for Dr. Faelon, she didn’t forget him either, though he was less a tea man and more a refined whisky drinker. “It’s nothing, really. You two are working on my brain baby, the least I can do is make sure you both have something to enjoy while you sort it out, besides…” She said with a smile and a shrug. “You both are pretty amazing so I like helping.” She went back in and finished up dinner in short order, and while it was simple fare but nourishing, it was also one of those dishes that just tastes incredibly good. Like all comfort food something about it made you relax and just sink into a more peaceful state of being. She would have made up a plate for Dr. Faelon but while she knew what he drank, she had no idea of his particularities in regards to plate size and portion etc, so she left that one off on it’s own. Jacob was a lot easier, she had figured out his portion size, less of a sit down eater and more of a grazer so she knew to keep his plate on the smaller side. Given she was much the same their plates could have been identical and it wouldn’t have mattered. She had brought out wine and glasses for them, pouring them each a bit of elvish wine before she sat down with her book and plate, intent on trying to catch up on what she had lost while shopping.



Of course, that question earned a choke and splutter that was followed by a laugh, tell him that his friend had made it in the nick of time. “Along with the words, if you need me, give me a shake… On the flip side which said ‘the card dummy’ which needless to say gave me quite a laugh. I liked her a good deal and she showed me a lot of things I wasn’t even aware of. She is a bit of a force of nature though, I don’t think I’ve ever been so bowled over before, but I think I kind of liked the change.” Anouk had been an adventure in and of herself, but she was also entirely solid on what she had said, and while she still wasn’t sure about a lot of it? She figured it honestly couldn’t hurt to go with it, worse case scenario was that she got more attention than she wanted but really, it wasn’t like she couldn’t pawn them off to one of the girls. “Where is Shimmershine? I’ve never heard of it… I hope the trip wasn’t too much for her though, but she seemed quite alright when we met…” Appearances could be deceiving though, and she didn’t want to make any hasty leaps, leaving it at that. Though it did bring up one of those questions that had formed at the end of her trip, that being who had been her benefactor, and given her pool of friends was virtually non-existent outside of Jacob? Yeah… So she had asked him without being too direct if he had any idea who might have done it, hoping he might answer her at least in one form or the other, but when he switched topics? She actually pouted at him and went back to her plate, seeing he wasn’t about to admit or voice anything and she wasn’t going to push, for all she knew it really could have been Anouk for some strange reason… But if so… Why would Jacob divert so quickly? Something she might pick at later if it bothered her enough to continue, to be fair she had a lot to study, a lot to do and she wasn’t the type to spend a long tome focusing on something other than her goal… But she also knew flat out that she had never had a gift like that before and from an unknown persona as well? It would bother her from time to time, make her want to poke at it, figure out what was going on… Right now she had other things to focus on…



“She was fast I admit, she said she had meetings to attend so I didn’t ask her to longer, but next time if you like I can try to waylay her. I meant what I said though, I think she tries to just be mindful of your career and choices, so she doesn’t want to take you from something she thinks is important.” Though she had a feeling that when Jacob went back in the winter as he said, they probably spent a bit of time catching up indeed, which would easily make up for the small misses here on the surface. Her lips curled in a smile as he said she must have a massive amount of tins in her house, and she could say she knew a few like that, even the tea shop she worked for recycled the cookie tins and the like and often repainted them into something else. Kept them fresh and new looking… Plus honestly a lot of those tins had the most amazing multipurpose abilities, from a place to secret saved money to a make shift jewelry box, there was a lot of reason to keep them. In Vivian’s case? It was for the sake of delivering sweets to someone she cared about. “Old isn’t a bad word you know… Just a thought…” She said teasingly as she watched him try to bounce bad a bit, feeling bad he had called Vivian old when he felt she wasn’t and yet he was unable to really decide on which way to land there. It was too cute not to pick up on and tease him with just a little bit. She nodded her head and returned his smile when he said her food was delicious, taking a few bites of her own as she ate, and she half wondered if he was just really easy to please… She was used to cooking for big groups so she wasn’t used to compliments, usually the only thing she heard was ‘more please’, and that was about it.



She was about two thirds done with her plate before he realized something and turned to face her, a brow risen on her face as she quietly put her fork down and gave him her full attention. Her head tilted when he said she wouldn’t need her striper uniform which she didn’t understand, given just a couple of hours ago he had told her to pack it, so she was a bit of a loss… What he said next though made her blush suddenly and she just sort of paused for a moment, she hadn’t actually thought about it like that, in her mind this was just a sort of… Added bit to being a striper, she didn’t see herself as a student doctor, she just saw it as… Herself… But the sudden change, the new label, the idea of the crisp linen coat that marked someone as a saver of lives… It was… Incredible... And a little terrifying… She took her drink up and set her plate down, trying to let it run it’s course so she wouldn’t feel quite so shell shocked over it, after all it WAS what she had signed up for… “Sorry… It just feels a little impossible… In my mind I haven’t made that jump… In my head this is just another facet of being a striper, I’m learning to be something better but I don’t… I don’t know how to take it… It feels like an honor a little too big for someone like me… I haven’t even proven anything yet…” She felt like there had to be a test or something, a trial she had to pass, to earn that white trainee jacket… She had settled back with a different book, this time the one on medicinal herbs, a much more complete and detailed version than the one they had used at the library… Even so, as she dug down into it an idea started to form in her head and she shot up to pace, having to give her body an outlet while her mind raced… She was going to options, ideas, possible blends… She dismissed more and then some, drinking from her glass as she took turns on the floor before it clicked for her and she began to jot down notes on the board, talking to him as she did so. Oloth’arr was incredibly potent but like all plants, parts and uses could be modified, either through acts of purification or parts of the plant itself there were ways to coax out what was wanted. When you removed the toxic oils from the fungi, you removed a majority of the risk, such as the paralysis and the black out. However, once it was refined and mixed with Angelica it found a carrier that allowed what was left in the Oloth’arr to be increased and magnified ten fold, but there was still the issue of purging… Any medicine has to make its way out of the body and Oloth’arr was a long running one, the effects could last too long and leave the immune and central systems open to invasive pathogens that would cause more harm than good, undoing the purpose in the treatment… However adding in ginger and anise helped to reduce that risk because both of them act as a purge for the system, causing the body to sweat profusely and remove toxins from the system, allowing the body to regain a more stable balance after the treatment for whatever ailment is administered and has taken root. Add in the hop springs and you end up increasing their effectiveness in leaps and bounds, not to mention the natural healing and health benefits of the springs in general, it was like a sort of cure all cocktail… Of course, this was just her theory and while she thought it might have been sound, in the end she gave up… Sitting back and shaking her head… She was getting ahead of herself, thinking she was smarter than she was, like she knew how to do things that had tripped up both Jacob and Faelon. It was an idea, one that could be costly and probably was just a pipe dream of hers, but it had felt good to get it out of her head… It let her focus on finishing her dinner and enjoying that second glass of wine, something about the elvish wine made her terribly fond of it, like summer in a glass with the perfect amount of bubbles… She knew for a fact that on this? She would easily get drunk just because it was just so enjoyable to drink.



She watched Jacob get up and go to the board, wondering what he saw there, but his silence didn’t spell a whole lot… Either she was alice in wonderland lost and had no idea what she was doing, or she was close too and he was trying to perhaps sort out a way to make a meet with b, but either way? It was there… When Faelon came in she blushed and ducked her head down a bit, she really admired him as a doctor and she didn’t want him to see her blunder written there on the board, almost wishing she could get up and erase it before he saw anything. Like Jacob, he stood before it silent for a few moments before he changed something around, her equation for the ratio on what to what… What happened next had her blinking a touch, between the growing sleepiness and the wine she was a little logged, her head tilting to the side at Dr. Faelon’s exclamation. She wasn’t about to interrupt though, if she had actually gotten it right, she was more than happy for the credit to go to Jacob. After all, if he hadn’t loaned her the books? She never would have had the question in the first place, never would have chased down the mental cotton tail, never would have gotten to this point… She blushed quite brightly when Dr. Faelon came over to her and she shook his hand, honestly she had no idea how to take it, it was like she was all sorts of down the rabbit hole. “Really, the credit should go to Dr. Anakin, he was the one who has lent be the books and allowed me time to study them so the idea formed, without him none of this would have come about… I… I really would rather not be known in a part of this… I don’t deserve that sort of attention.” She stated, however she did nod her head when asked if she was going, her lips curling into a smile when he mentioned Jacob. “I am going, yes, I made sure to plan in advance… I trust you are as well then? It will be a very enjoyable trip with you along. As for Dr. Anikin, he’s a bit like candy to women I think, but he doesn’t realize it.” She said with a warm laugh and show Jacob a wink. It was true, the girls went nuts for him and he knew it, even if he didn’t quite see the scope of just how much. Like catnip in a yard, he drew cats from all over the place who just wanted to roll around with him, and he had virtually no idea of the draw he had on them… Or…If he did he ignored it… She blushed all over again when Dr. Faelon said she was doing excellent work and to keep it up, nodding her head and smiling, and she would do it too… She wanted to be a great doctor, she wanted to really make something of herself, and she wasn’t going to give up easily. She settled back down and finished her dinner as they talked, trying to stifle the yawns that surfaced now and then, blinking down at the pages in her lap for a moment. “Really I’m not that special Jacob… I meant what I said to Dr. Faelon… Without you none of that would have even been an idea, let alone something that came to fruition… You’re the cause of it Jacob… Not me.” She stated as she finished off the second glass of wine, a small smile curling on her lips at his words, nodding her head. “Been awake a little too long I think… Just sort of crept up on me suddenly… I’ll be fine after a couple of hours I’m sure… I’ll see you in the morning…” She said, standing up to take their plates and dishes into the kitchen, pausing when he waved her off and she smiled again, reaching out to gently run her fingers along his shoulder as she went by with books and wine glass. Those small touches meant the world to her for some reason and she stored them up like precious jewels in her memory, heading up stairs slowly before tuning into her room, locking her door behind her and stripping down… She enjoyed that last glass slowly while she packed up her clothes for the trip, putting the rest away for later use before heading out to enjoy the sunset on the balcony, shivering delightedly at the chill wind on her skin and the sensations of that naughty purchase she wore… She headed back in and had tried to read… She really had… But in the end she fell short and started to drift off, almost asleep when she heard her lock being turned, and given who she had gifted with the other key? She felt a sweet hot thrill, a melting of her core as she went soft almost all at once, reaching out for him… She wanted Jacob, and while she had told herself she was content if last night was a one time thing, deep down she knew it was a lie she was telling herself… He made her feel alive, sensations that wracked her body in ways that made her cry out, shattering her and sending her up into the cosmos to rest with the stars… It was dangerous and addictive and entirely too much… And it was the one thing she wanted almost as much as she wanted to be a doctor… She wanted him… Just Jacob, and every part of him he was willing to share with her, even if it was only fragments it was more than she ever dreamed of having… Wanting in her life…



What had happened though wasn’t a sweet meeting of fingertips… No gentle kiss that stole her breath away… No featherlight caress that made her whole body shiver… It was a rough, pawing grab that made her hurt and recoiled, eyes snapping open to see who had broken into her room. Her first reaction was to scream at him to get out, but her words didn’t seem to do a single thing other than perhaps turn him on even more, the disgusting bulge in his shorts aiming right at her made her want to vomit. The other girls might think he was some Godly Don Juan but she only saw a vain self-serving creature who would never, could never, have even a single atom of appeal to her. It was then the fight started, his continued lunging for her and the way she kept large bits of furniture between them, constantly telling him she didn’t want him and to get out. For some reason it didn’t click for him, and between dodging his attempts she kept hearing things like telling her to stop playing hard to get, that she wanted this… Yeah right! Who in their right mind would ever want that?! She ended up getting a couple of bruises from him, his fingers gripping her hard when he managed to snag an arm or her leg, but she didn’t give in easy. She put up one hell of a fight for such a small stature and she didn’t quit, she almost made it out of her room before he lunged for her and caught her at the door, the disgusting feeling of his phallus digging between her thighs like he would rape her right then and there… The bruising forming from that before she got the door open, feeling him catch her about the waist to drag her back in she reached for anything at that last moment, bringing her melodica up to bash him upside the head. He took a step… Two… Out into the hallway before he crumpled and she hit the floor hard, dazed and breathless for a moment as the world swam around her, desperately trying to drag in a breath before she managed to do so. She scrambled into her room to put a something on, the first thing she got to was Jacobs shirt, drawing it on close and she would have closed and barricaded the door… The thing that broke her was what she saw on the ground, her broken melodica that just lay broken down the middle, keys scattered… It was all too much then… An attempted rape she could handle, she could push through that, but that… Her Melodica had been hers for as long as she remembered and it was the one thing she did just for herself, because it made her happy to play, because in making music she was able to forget… It was like watching your best friend die and she just broke down, crying brokenly as she brought the broken pieces of it to herself, just a mess there on the landing… Kit had been a surprise when she came around and honestly she hadn’t the strength to fight, she would have taken what ever Kit dished out but instead she had been kind, patting her shoulder before going down to get Jacob for help. Someone had to handle Rincavornon and it sure as hell wasn’t her.



When Jacob came running upstairs though she turned to look at him, tear streaked face and broken melodica in her lap, and she felt embarrassed… That he saw her crying… That she hadn’t handled this on her own… That he had to come up and clean the mess… She didn’t want to be a burden on him, she had been trying so hard the last two days to make his life easier so he could find some sort of enjoyment in teaching her, but instead… Instead he was here with his fellow doctor knocked out cold and her sitting in nothing but his shirt and bruises… How was he supposed to feel confident in teaching her like that? “Jacob… I’m sorry… He broke in and I-“ She tried to explain what had happened to him before he called for Kit and Dr. Faelon and she went silent, her head falling forward in shame, arms crossing to hug herself… She got up with Dr. Faelon’a help, grateful he was being so gentle and calm, honestly any jerky movements would have sent her scurrying most likely… “Thank you…” She said softly as she stood, over all she was in good condition, a bit mentally farked up but body wise just some bruises… She looked at Kit and reached out to gently cup her cheek, petting her skin softly, pulling her in for a moment. “Nothing in this world is so broken it can’t be fixed Kit…” She said softly before she caught the looks from Ellen and Luna and dragged Kit to her side and stood her ground, shaky though it was, and gave them both a look that promised a painful and slow death to both of them. The three of them made it downstairs where she begged to be in the kitchen, and made them all a pot of tea, figuring Jacob was going to haul the drunken jackass back to his room and lock him in to sober up. She rested her head on the counter for a moment, the tears still falling for reasons she couldn’t understand, making herself sit up as she poured them all some tea. She looked at Kit then and asked her flat out for the truth, reaching out to rest her hand over hers atop of the table, giving it a soft squeeze. “I won’t let them hurt you Kit… I promise, your safe, you won’t have to deal with them anymore… But please… What happened? You knew something was up… You were there despite the fact your rooms below mine… Why… Why did he try to rape me?” It was an ugly word, one she had to force out, seeing Faelon flinch at it a bit… She didn’t blame him for it either but she had to know… What came next though…



“Luna was pissed at you for last night and wanted to get back at you for it. She had Ellen help her get into the pharmacy and steal a few pills, something about an… um… that thing… It makes guys you know… Want to fuck a lot…” Kit lacked the vocabulary but at least she was honest, even if it was obvious that she was pretty scared and shaking there at the table, white as a sheet she still went on. “They spent last night and most of today whispering things to him that you had supposedly said… Like that you told them you wanted to fuck him like crazy… You thought he was hot… Luna wrote a love letter asking him to come to your room and I don’t know how she did it, but she had a copy of your key she put in the letter, saying something that you liked to pretend to get raped and that it really got you off… Look Rose, I know we don’t get along but I didn’t think they’d go through with it, not like that.” Kit said before she broke down crying and it was then she got up, coming around the side and began to rub her hand up and down Kits back, soothing her before looking to Dr. Faelon there. “She can’t stay with him… He’s a miserable person and he is going to ruin any chance that Kit has of becoming something more… Would you please take her on instead Dr. Faelon? I’ll be tutoring her and I know… I Know once she gets in with the right crowd and with a little positive encouragement she can really shine… If it doesn’t work out in a month I will ask Dr. Anikin to take her on instead but… For now? Please?... I know I am asking a lot but it’s not just for me… It’s for her too… It’s just like the formula from earlier… You might be the missing piece she needs to really become amazing…” She wouldn’t ask for more than that, but she had to do something, to return the favor of telling her what had happened. She knew now why Rincavornon had tried to rape her, how he had gotten into her room, all of it… And she swore an unholy revenge on the two who caused it… She was about to ask Dr. Faelon what he thought they should do when she heard it, her ears pricking sharply to the side, and she blanched… “Oh God no…” She got up and to the stairs, slipping on several rugs, her usual speed and grace were shot and she was bumping into things. Dr. Faelon got ahead of her and Kit was right behind her, the doctor laying out the orders before she ran to Jacob’s side, pulling him to her and resting his head in her lap. “Take that piece of Garbage with you and leave!” She yelled at them, curling over Jacob and running her fingers through his hair, the tears starting all over again as she cradled him close to her. She wouldn’t let anyone near him, she’d push them away as if they would hurt him too, her tears falling like rain down his cheeks as she held him.



Dr. Rincavornon was lifted between Ellen and Luna, taken downstairs and into his room, Dr. Faelon behind them to make sure no funny business happened. It took her a few minutes, but she sort of unfolded herself a bit and with Kit’s help, had Jacob resting over her shoulder as she and Kit carried him into his room. Once he was on the bed she would shake her head and ask Kit to leave, but to lock her doors when she got to her room, and not to trust anyone but Dr. Faelon Dr. Anakin and herself. Once it was just them she locked Jacobs door and closed the curtains, lit a small fire in the hearth for light and a little warmth, and began to set about work… She took down several vials and poultices, Jacob had been hurt and wore the marks of it too, her heart bleeding for him… He had gotten in a fight for her… Going up against someone who was a lot bigger than him because he wanted to protect her… Defend her… Keep her safe… She worked for several minutes, blending things together, focusing her own natural magics… By the end of it she had a small tin of ointment, coming to settle in the bed with him she pulled him up against her chest, nestled between her legs and in her arms… As comfortable as he had probably ever been in that bed, she slowly and carefully took him out of his shirt and pants, leaving him in his shorts before covering him up… She would begin to gently apply the salve to his cheek and eye, making sure he was thoroughly coated and not s scratch missed before she set the tin to the side and covered it, resting her head atop his… Linking her fingers with his as she gently began to sing to him, even though he was still out of it, she did anyways… “So many years have passed, the dew is still on the roses…I left my childhood in a garden green… Come in the garden and look at the trees, I used to play there when I was a child… Squirrels and birds, little fairies… Settle down there long ago… So many years have passed, the dew is still on the roses… I left my childhood in a garden green… Come in the garden and sit on the grass, I used to sit there when I was a child… Ivy and moss, little daisies… Covered the lane long ago… So many years have passed, the dew is still on the Roses… I kept my memories in that garden green… I kept my memories… In that garden green…” She sang softly for him, her fingers running through his hair as she held him, but once he was safe… Behind locked doors… The silence and sacred feelings his room gave her… She ended up falling into sleep with him wrapped up in her arms, one hand still in his hair, the other holding his hand… Her energy tapered out once she drifted off but it had done it’s work, she had been activating the plant compounds in the balm so that they would work over time in healing, but given she was still learning about her powers it wasn’t flawless… The cuts and scrapes were almost completely gone and his black eye was just a dark under eye and a touch of swelling on his cheekbone… Sure it would still get noticed but not so much as it would have before. There she would stay, making sure that he was ok, that he wasn’t concussed or otherwise badly hurt… Guarding him even in her sleep.

---

song

[Deleted]

...he had told her about the need for the uniform change.. how she was no longer a mere striper or even a nurse.. that she was a student doctor.. he seemed.. perhaps a little perplexed when she appeared confused.. when she spoke on how her mind had not made the jump yet.. -.. mm no.. see thats where you're wrong.. -he said in response to her mentioning she hadn't proven herself yet-.. But you have.. numerous times now and in the shortest time possible.. this morning alone Rose.. I mean you worked beneath Dr Faelon.. for almost the entire shift.. of all the doctors I have known.. that I have worked under and with.. he is tough.. he doesn't keep anyone with him that he'd consider baggage.. or that will get in the way.. his precision demands a certain level of education, of intelligence and of course common sense.. -he took a drink of the tea there -.. You have proven yourself.. -he held his hand to his heart- I assure you.. I'll make sure there is a uniform packed.. if not.. if say we run out of time I am sure that there will be a spare at Narius.. the Hospital there is almost four times the size of ours.. You're a student doctor.. you' have to get used to that title..

-he offered her a smile there as she moved to stand up. to work on the writing on the board.. he watched her curiously as he took another mouthful of the dinner she had prepared for the Manor proper..his attention shifting from her to the board.. observing her routine.. her pacing.. her thoughtful expressions.. before she sunk down suddenly.. as if admitting defeat.. he waved away her apology though.. making sure she knew such was never necessary.. he did however have to check out what she had done.. what she had added and he stood there with his back to her for quite some time.. his rubbing his cheek as he allowed her ideas.. her equations and writings sink in.. Calling upon Faelon who soon joined him there.. the two of them quietly discussing this and that.. before Faelon would shift and erase something.. a quick little change before he exclaimed it had been done.. sorted.. settled.. figured out.. going to give Jacob all the credit before he motioned to her.. -.. credit where credit is due.. -..

he watched as Faelon approached her to shake her hand.. though he shook his head when she tried to brush it off.. that because they were his books that it was his credit to take-.. Nonsense.. they are but words upon a page Rose.. it takes a particular mind to be able to see them for what they are.. Dont forget now.. Ive had those books for.. quite some time.. and I had not come up with this idea.. this is all you.. with a little lifting work from the two of us.. Well Done.. this is exceptional.. -he nodded.. he was incredibly impressed..as was Faelon.. making sure the entire house knew about it before the Doctor slipped back into the kitchen-.. and here you were worrying about not being up to the standard of a student Doctor..-he chuckled a little as he sunk back down to sit.. picking up his glass once more.. he noticed she was yawning.. and had done so a few times in the short stay they had in that room together.. mentioning she should probably go and get some rest.. not allowing her to take the dishes.. she wasn't a maid.. she'd done the cooking afterall.. and cooks dont clean their own.. not while he was around anyway..

he watched as she headed off before he collected what was left an headed into the main area.. where Faelon and a few of his girls were.. the two of them just chatting about the travel that would be commencing.. what time they would be leaving.. how many carriages woul be required.. Faelon was very analytical.. he needed to know the ins and outs of everything .. the dishes were washed and left to dry there.. the counter top wiped down by one of the girls as the candles and lanterns in the kitchen were turned down.. he went to move back into the lounge.. picking up those few books dotted here and there.. before Kit would come bounding down those stairs.. at first he ignored it.. he really didn't want to have to deal with that particular young woman on this night.. not now.. before he heard what had happened.. and he felt a cold rush of dread.. enough to snake a shiver up the length of his spine.. before he took to those stairs as if they were nothing at all..

managing to slide on the rug a touch at the third floor.. his gaze.. that blue green fell upon her all but broken frame.. she was upon her knees.. tear stained cheeks.. bruised skin.. his heart was thudding in his head.. he ushered to Faelon and Kit to take care of her.. she needed to get away from there.. immediately..before he moved to Rincavornon.. the two of them having quite the stand off.. sharp words were exchanged.. fists flew.. blood splattered.. bodies hit the deck hard.. loud enough to alert those on the lower level.. before one strong hook would send Rincavornon off with the fairies and he himself would simply slump.. the hard knock to the head a little earlier causing him to drop in and out of conciousness.. when everyone came running back up to the third floor they'd be met with the scent of blood.. the scene of broken furniture and vases.. the pair of them looked pretty bad..

though Rincavornon looked worse off.. he had really laid into him when he had the chance.. something had spurned him on.. something had added fuel to perhaps an already burning fire.. Faelon took control quickly.. ordering Ellen and Luna to help him to take Rincavornon down stairs to the Doctors bedroom.. catching a glimpse of Rose there tending to Jacob.. Faelon was not worried.. he knew she was competent.. but he would check on her.. on Jacob in a little while.. he didn't make a sound.. not a single peep when she and Kit picked him up.. placing him down onto his bed.. he was breathing yes.. but it was silent.. his lids remained closed.. perhaps a concussion.. or at the very least a mild one.. Kit looked frightfully worried.. almost as white as a ghost.. apologising over and over and over and over again.. tears tumbling down the poor girls cheeks.. before she backed out of the room and she all but ran down to her own.. locking the door behind her..

he remained still.. his head upon the pillow there.. his shirt bloodied and torn.. the room soon flooded with darkness when the curtains were drawn.. the fireplace giving it a soft orange glow soon after.. there would be a gentle knocking at the door.. about an hour into her making that salve.. it would be Faelon-.. Rose?.. It's just me.. Dr Faelon.. I'm alone.. -he would wait there.. until she would open the door for him.. stepping in and closing it behind him.. -.. has he moved at all?.. said anything?.. done anything since you have brought him in here?.. -he would question.. digging a small flash light type object from his pocket as he approached the side of the bed.. drawing Jacobs lids open.. flashing the light across there.. before he would tilt his hea to check for bleeding.. drawing a breath-.. Im guessing he took a really hard knock to the back of the head.. thats probably what we heard when we were downstairs.. -he rubbed his chin a little.. reaching down to take Jacobs pulse.. -... Bit of a quandry.. knowing their history I should have had someone stay up stairs with them perhaps.. even one of my girls.. -he nodded when he took his mental notes-.. I think he's going to be alright.. he might be a big groggy when he wakes though.. You will come get me if he starts bleeding -he motioned to Jacobs nose and ears-.. or if anything just doesn't seem right.. I'm just down stairs.. going to tend to Rincavornon.. and get to the bottom of all of this.. How are you feeling?.. Dont think that because of all of this commotion that we have brushed you aside.. not at all.. just a bit more or a triage situation im afraid.. -he frowned a little..-.. Try and get some rest when you can.. we will talk soon.. -he nodded as he went to step out of the room.. drawing the door closed behind him.. silence would settle once more..


allowing her to return to making up her salve..he was moved fairly easily when she settled in behind him.. she removed his clothing.. leaving him in his shorts.. before she covered him up with the warm quilt.. the salve was quite soothing against his angry red and slightly swollen flesh.. his features remained calmed.. as if he was merely resting.. sleeping.. her song cut through the silence there.. though it was soft and gentle.. much like her touches.. her fingers caressing through his hair.. before she drifted off with him in her arms.. she might have been drawn from that slumber though by his murmurs.. his quiet nonsensical utterings.. they were just noises.. something someone would make when they were not quite all there.. when they were partially concious.. or drunk even..

he'd lightly rub his lips together.. his eyes though remained closed the entire time.. though lids shifted.. as if he was dreaming.. his head shifted to the left.. and then sharply to the right.. his hands gripped at the bedding there..-.. No!.. -he suddenly cried out.. his voice though raspy flooded the silence..-.. No please.. Please.. -he was pleading.. -.. don't.. I.. -he stuttered-.. I don't understand.. -his breath hitched loudly.. his words though mostly legible were a little slurred...a little broken-..you're my.. you're my wife.. -his fists balled up the thin cotton sheet-.. Cora.. how.. how could you.. and with.. -he paused.. coughing a little.. as if his throat was restricting a little-..with him.. -the stiffness in his body subsided as he relaxed back against her.. his head luling back to the side.. his features softening.. a lucid dream perhaps.. that was fleeting.. silence returned..

before a small smile would spread across his features.. his heart would pick up a touch.. fingers twitching.. -.. she's beautiful.. isn't she.. -he'd whisper as if he were talking to someone.. bouncing ideas off another..-.. i mean.. though.. more than that.. there's beautiful girls.. everywhere.. -he smiled.. laughing just a little.. though it sounded quite horrible in his current condition-.. though she has this lethal combination.. a beautiful woman with a brain.. -his head lulled back there.. his lids snapped open.. though he was not awake.. he was just staring.. -.. im quite scared..-almost completely inaudible.. little more than a whisper-.. of the butterflies I'm.. -he went to say before his lids fell closed and his body felt limp.. relaxed.. his breathing regulated.. his clammy skin seemed to even out.. colour returned a little more.. -

..you give me butterflies.. -he drew in a breath there.. was he referring to her?.. was he referring to Cora? an earlier time in their courtship perhaps.. or could four letters.. just nail it.. once and for all-.. Rose.. -before he would finally fall completely silent.. the salve would work wonders as the hours ticked on.. not removing it all completely.. but taking a good deal of it away.. the swelling was gone.. he didn't look like he was part mutant anymore.. a few light grazes.. he'd be hurting.. there was no denying it.. a ready supply of willowbark for the journey would be required..but he would be ok.. due to the events that had occurred.. the time to leave was pushed back.. there was nothing quite rigid about it.. they would go when they were all ready..

he began to shift.. stretching his legs out first.. drawing a breath as his arms drew from beneath the covers there.. he reached to instinctively rub at his eyes .. though initial first contact with some sore skin caused him to wince and audibly groan.. blinking those eyes open slowly.. the room remained dark.. only the faint glow coming from nearly spent coats was there.. he murmured.. slowly moving to sit up before there was a shock of pain running across his temples.. he slumped.. only then realising he was not alone.. his head tilted upwards.. eyes adjusting to the light.. -.. mmm.. oh.. -he yawned softly-.. oh hello Rose.. -he blinked a few more times.. -.. i dont .. hmm.. i.. -he was a little bit lost.. he was trying to put the pieces of the puzzle back together but he was missing a couple..

slowly he pulled himself up into a seated position.. his legs shifting to rest over the side of the bed.. holding the side of his head-.. Are you ok?..-he exhaled softly.. he ached.. he hurt.. but he was not in the slightest bit concerned about himself.. not at all.. -.. I -he paused.. running his fingers back through his hair as he pulled himself into a standing position.. a little wobbly but he got his balance.. -.. I should have stopped with you.. and made sure you were ok.. my.. anger got the better of me.. I'm sorry.. -he stopped there at his desk as he pulled open a drawer or two.. locating the small wooden box with the willowbark within it.. a few slivers there for himself.. slid between his teeth before he took a drink from the cup of water there.. he offered it to her-..

You sure you still want to go today?.. -he looked utterly spent.. though at least the swelling and most of the bruising was gone-..I wouldn't blame you at all if you just wanted to stay behind.. your call.. of course.. -he nodded a little.. there was a gentle knocking at the door there.. he moved to approach.. drawing it open.. as he peered out.. it was Faelon.. though he didn't come in.. just discussing how they would head off in the early afternoon.. maybe a few hours from now.. but that there was no rush..

[BadInfluence]

She opened her mouth once… Twice… Thrice… Each time she had to close her mouth before she could say anything. It wasn’t that she had an argumentative nature, far from it, normally she couldn’t be bothered enough to argue. It was more so she didn’t feel he was right, but she couldn’t argue his points either, having been under Faelon a majority of the night she knew he was completely accurate in what he said. Faelon was hard, exacting when in the field, and he left literally no room for error. Every patient he had was treated like he was the most important person, there were no corners cut, no half measures. With him it was literally all or nothing, and when you live in that sort of a measure, anyone with you had to be willing and able to match it. She saw his method and did her best to match it, to ensure everything was prepared beforehand so there would be no running back and forth for items, as well as making sure it was organized so she could reach back without turning to hand him exactly what he asked for. She had thrived under him though, she absorbed everything like a dry sponge to water, soaking up every drop of knowledge he passed down to her. It had been hard, the hardest she had ever worked in her life that went without question, and it left her drained but… In a good way. It had been a invaluable learning experience, and if she didn’t feel Jacob was a perfect fit for her and how she chose to learn, she would have possibly shifted doctors in that moment. However, Jacob had a flexible style of teaching that gave her everything she wanted and needed to learn, an ability to allow her to jump different areas when the idea struck her rather than keeping her on a set path. Combined with the fact Jacob was close to her age and another elf, they had too much in common to pass the opportunity up, they would be able to sit on a wave length she couldn’t reach with Faelon… Everything else with Jacob though?... That was just an added bonus, and while some on the outside might see it as perhaps detrimental or even inappropriate, it was neither in her mind. Yes, she thought about that night often, more than she might care to admit to… Yes, when she saw him her body had the weirdest reactions, her heart going nuts and her stomach in fluttery knots… Hot or cold… Fire or electric… But even with the confusion of things she still couldn’t fathom let alone understand, in her mind it was just a different sort of teaching, one shared between only them… Or… At least… She hoped… If not? It wasn’t her place to say anything one way or the other… After all, he was a widow and unattached, if he chose to teach someone besides her the art of pleasure? Who was she to say no? She felt blessed enough just to have known it, even if only for a night. She just sat back for a moment with her chin on her knuckles as she watched him, her lips curling in a wry smile, her eyes dancing in the lamplight. “… Do you always win an argument with blunt facts? Or is it just me you hit with the rubber mallet of truth? It’s a hefty swing your sporting…” She teased with that wry little smile on her lips, the one that meant she was teasing him, poking at him just a little. He didn’t pull his punches but she liked that about him, even if in this instance she was really struggling with feeling like she earned anything, even if she was the only one who felt that way. “Thank you Jacob… I think I needed that. I’ll be sure to work on keeping it in mind...” Although the thought made her pause… “If I get one… Then so does Luna… Do you think they make one big enough for her titanic tooshie?” Random but genuine question there, Luna was on the same level of position as she was, and that meant the same jacket… Would she have to get one for an incredibly portly human? And if so then wouldn’t the rest of her just be swimming in it? But the imagine alone was rather hilarious, enough to make her start giggling there in her seat, covering her eyes with her hand. “Oh God help me… I just had a mental image of Luna wearing the biggest ones we got and looking like a ghost who swallowed too much bubblegum and has farted out a massive pair of rump cheeks… Instead of rattling chains she sits on you so your trapped under the fear of what happens if that bubble pops…” Yes… She had been up a VERY long time, and as much her brain was perhaps taking on a more creative, loosely wild side to it. Fatigue didn’t make her grouchy so much as it just made her silly and playful… Strange, wasn’t it?



She had gone back to her meal, her reading and her wine when something sprung into her mind in regards to the chalk board and before the thought left her, she bounced up and began to write. It was theoretical, it was based on a lose idea of using the system of purging that had at one time been the main treatment for any ailment, and while it was incredible outdated… Virtually dark times really… There was a lot of good in the roots of it, sweating something out was an amazing way to purge the system naturally, without flooding it with drugs or invasive treatments… Letting the body fix itself as much as possible was the best way to go, the body knew what it needed more than man did, and giving it free reign to do what it felt it needed to do? Would not only ease the body into receiving the treatment more easily, but it would also do wonders for the body itself, giving some people a possible state of euphoria at the end of a treatment… It was something she thought might work, something she really, genuinely believed had some merit… But as she wrote it all out and looked it over, she didn’t see how she could have gotten something that Dr. Faelon and Jacob had been unable to match, and in that moment she felt she had seriously overstepped and overestimated herself… Sitting back with a slight huff and apologizing, surely it had to be a little vexing to watch the new kid on the block roll up and pretend they know how to play the game the two of them had been engaged in for years… She watched him get up and go to the board, her lips pressed to the wine glass as she watched in silence for a moment, only going back to her food and books when she figured he was going to puzzle it over for a minute… She wasn’t right… But maybe he could fix where she messed up? Dr. Faelon came out a moment later and she wanted to jump up and erase what she had written, her admiration for the good doctor didn’t exactly allow her to feel comfortable with him seeing her gibberish, but as he wrote something… A shift… And the sudden exclamation that it had been solved left her sitting there a bit gob-smacked. She didn’t quite believe it but she was more than happy to let Jacob get all the credit, honestly she didn’t want any accolades, didn’t want praise or recognition. She just wanted to become a doctor for the sake of helping people, not for the fame or popularity, not for the title… She honestly tried to divert attention, to put it off, not wanting any part to do with it… They weren’t about to let her. “Jacob…” She said on a half whine with a pleading look in her eyes. “You’re so not helping!’ She said pitifully before Dr. Faelon left to go light a fire under his own pupils rumps, indeed to try and get the whole house up on their feet to want to do better, and while she understood his goal… She was pretty sure only his group would get it… Rincavornon group wasn’t the sort to really pursue intellectual pathways… In her head she was pretty sure those girls would only get as far as he could get them, but the second it came to testing with any of the other doctors they would fail, and fail hard. What a genuine waste of possible potential… All because Rincavornon’s dick didn’t know how to stay in his slacks. When he teased her a little about how she had been afraid of not being up to standard she picked up her rubber eraser and threw it at him lightly, laughing and sticking her tongue out at him before pulling a face, finishing off her plate. “I still am! I’ll get around it… Sometime…” She teased back though she couldn’t hold on… Warm comfort food, amazing wine, and she had just had her latest brain egg hatched… It was an exhaustive but exceptionally good day, she had a fun time with Jacob at the pool, she had gone shopping for the first time and got a bunch of pretty new things… It was a nice way to get totally burned out and she was fading fast. She couldn’t quite stifle the yawns but smiled when he told her to head up, leaving the dishes behind for him as she made her way upstairs, into her room to finish her wine and try to get a few more pages in… She really did give it her best but she ended up sinking into her bed and had almost been asleep when the attack started and her whole world took on a shift and not one for the better, loosing something so precious to her, one of her few little treasures that hurt her a whole lot more than what Rincavornon had done to her. Honestly… The rape would have been less painful… Less traumatic…



When all was said and done she had been escorted down stairs, Jacob and Rincavornon stayed up, and what happened next… Was not something she expected. She hadn’t known the undercurrent that rested between the two of them, that there was old blood, bad blood in the water and that it had only been waiting for the right moment to putrefy… She had been talking to Kit when the fight started, loosing much and most of it to the shocking revelations of what was revealed, but before she could ask Dr. Faelon what to do about it? She heard the sound of the thump and her heart stopped, fear poured over her like an ice bucket, and the three of them ran for the stairs. She was lagging, her movements were sloppier than normal, she was running into things as she ran up the stairs. When she got to the third floor, Dr. Faelon had already seen what happened and was calling out orders, but her one concern was for Jacob. She ran to his side and pulled him to her lap protectively, sheltering him as if anyone who got close intended him harm, getting defensive and yelling at Luna and Ellen to get that piece of garbage away from them. He wasn’t waking up and it scared her, it could be a mild concussion at the least, or a subdural hematoma at worst… She wanted him safe, she wanted him back, she wanted him smiling and teasing her… Poking at her… Making her admit things she didn’t want to because he was right… For the moment though she had to take care of him, she honestly wasn’t going to let much of anyone near him, only asking Kit for help to bring him into his room while Dr. Faelon saw to the others. One Jacob was in bed she made sure he was sitting up and proper on the pillows, no chance to aspirate vomit or swallow his own tongue, a basin on the side in case anything did happen… She told Kit to go to her room and lock it up, to stay safe and that she would help her, though she didn’t know how… She would still try her best… After that she lit a small fire in the room, the nights got chilly fast this week and she wasn’t going to risk him getting chilled, and the fact that the light from a fire was always peaceful… She took some dried herbs and threw them on the tinder and wood, allowing it to perfume the air, to release the aromatic properties into the air before she began to work on that salve. When there was a knock on the door she would wait to hear who it was, and once she heard Dr. Faelon she went over and opened it, letting him in before closing it behind her. “Nothing yet, but his breathing is even and he isn’t showing any restless jerking, so I don’t think any seizures are a risk…” She said softly as she came to his side as he looked over Jacob, watching every move he made, what he took note of… When he mentioned their history though she wanted to ask… Oh God it was a question burning in the back of her brain… “Dr. Faelon… I want to ask what happened… Whatever caused such bad blood between them… But at the same time I respect Jacob far too much to let anyone tell me about his past but him… It’s his story to tell… And if he wants to share it with me? Then it’s because he cares, not because I chose to pry and dig it up on my own, is that makes sense… Instead… Can I just ask that… Maybe… Just we don’t leave them alone for a while? Not within so much feet of each other? I don’t… I don’t know what happened in their past, but I do know I don’t want any future where Jacob gets hurt over me, he’s far too precious to me than to deserve that…” She didn’t realize what she was saying, she was just reacting perhaps, the fatigue had removed any filter on her lips and the truth was tumbling out in torrents and falls… She ran her fingers through his hair softly, brushing it off his brow with the most gentle of touches, nodding her head when he asked her to get him if he started bleeding… The question about her though… “It was an attempted rape but it didn’t succeed… He’s a brute but all I have are a few bruises, I’ll survive, I’m much tougher than I look… Please, do tend to those who need care, I promise I will look after Jacob and I’ll try to get some rest in too…” She nodded her head with a promise before walking him out, locking the door behind her again because she didn’t trust tonight, she wouldn’t give up her vigil until Jacob was back and safe…



She finished the salve as best she could with her knowledge of herbs and her limited but well intended use of her magic, applying it as gently as she could to his cuts and bruises, his black eye and any other injury he might have. As she focused on doing her best to help him heal, she gently cradled him in her arms, holding him to her chest and between her legs so she could keep him safe… Singing softly to him and him alone, fingers gently running through his hair as she wanted to ease him, as if she could take his pain away by will alone… She couldn’t do much else, she had stripped him down and made him as comfortable as she could, the rest… The rest he had to do on his own, slowly drifting to sleep with him against her, and sleep she did… While all was silent she slept deeply, but a part of her was awake and present, a section of her mind attuned to any sounds… Shifts… She woke when he began to mutter… To mumble and make smaller noises… She pulled herself away and blinked her eyes in the soft warm orange lit glow of the room, wrapping her arms around him a little tighter in a gentle hug to soothe him, thinking he was slowly coming around… Instead it was something like sleep talking and her heart jerked and broke at his words, she might be a virgin but she wasn’t stupid, she could piece enough of it together to know what had happened… She had cheated on him, his wife that had died, she had been unfaithful and he knew it… Possibly even saw it by the way he sounded, the words he used, and with what Faelon had said… She had a feeling she knew with who… She reached down and took his hands in hers, slowly rocking him from side to side in her arms, making soft soothing noises… “Shhh… Shh… She didn’t deserve you Jacob… She can’t hurt you anymore… You’re here… With me… With your Rose…” She whispered softly against his ear, gently kissing his temple and the top of his head, soothing him until it passed… Oh how her heart ached for him, broke like someone was embroidering it with barbed wires and razor blades, and she wondered how in the world anyone could ever want to hurt him so deeply... Especially when something as sacred as a marriage was involved… If her mental jump was right and it was Rincavornon though she would get him back for it, even if it wasn’t her battle, even if it wasn’t her war… The fact was that she had claimed Jacob there on the landing, she had claimed all of him, good and bad… Teacher and Friend… And that meant his battles too. She held him close and gentle until those moments passed and she thought perhaps they were done, though they hurt him it was a good sign, it meant he was settling into his mind and body again… The concussion was fading and he was getting back into his own… When she saw him smile she thought his dream must have turned to something sweeter, though when his heart rate picked up she grew a little concerned, worried maybe he had taken a harder hit than she first thought… When he started to talk though she figured it had to have been about Cora, and she remained silent and unjudgmental, just listening… Letting his mind process what it needed to before it could restart and settle back into the rhythm it usually ran on… She just stroked her fingers through his hair, pretending not to feel the angry bite of jealousy and envy that made her heart hurt when she thought about how much he must have loved her, and how lucky she had to have been to have his affection like that… His eyes had snapped open then and she blinked, hearing him say he was scared she shook her head, cupping his cheek, about to tell him there was nothing to be afraid of… It was just a bump on the head… He was ok… But when he said butterflies… Her cheeks took on the rosy hue of her blush before she looked down at him, resting her cheek atop his head, curling her fingers over his hands… “I’m afraid of them too… But I’m more afraid of the way I felt before you gave them to me… I don’t know if you’ll ever like me… Or feel anything for me other than friendship… A part of me wants to be this mature person and say I am happy with that… And a part of me is… But the other… The part of me you touched last night… I don’t want a friend when I know you can make me feel alive with something as sweet and simple as a kiss… I want all of you and I don’t even know how to explain it… I don’t know my own feelings, let alone understand them, I can’t even put a label to anything because before you… There wasn’t anything there… But now I suddenly have this meadow of flowers inside me where there was nothing before…” She whispered softly to him, she knew he wouldn’t remember it, he couldn’t even hear her… It was… The safest way to tell him how she felt on the inside without fear of his rejection… As she confessed in whispers to him she saw his breathing had evened out, his skin lost some of the shine and pallor, a bit more color to his cheeks until he began to look more and more like himself.



She was almost lulled back asleep before she heard his words… Someone gave him butterflies… She paused… Her heart hurting… Envy biting at her again that Cora had been so lucky… Almost hating her for it… But when he said her name… Her heart stopped, just dead silent in her chest for a moment as she felt a surge of hope, something there… Something so fragile and precious… Priceless… Was he confessing he felt something for her too? Or was this just sleep murmurs? A chaotic mind settling itself in order? Her heart thudded and raced all of a sudden in her chest and she found herself holding him a little tighter in her arms, pressing her lips gently over his temple, taking in the feel of him in her arms… Strong and warm… The scent of his skin and the feel of his hair beneath her fingers and cheek… “You give me them too Jacob… But the question now is… What do we do about this feeling we share… What is it? I don’t know what it looks like… What it feels like… But if I am… I’m glad my heart chose you…” She said before he relaxed and fell into a true sleep, following on his heels as her own fatigue was pretty strong, her head next to his on his shoulder as she followed him down to Morpheus. He woke first, his movements earning a small murder from her, a cross between the sound a kitten makes when it’s moved and a little sound of sleep. She curled in deeper into the blankets with him, eyes still closes as she drifted, a part of her refusing to wake up… She was so exhausted it almost hurt… It wasn’t until he slumped that she woke up and she blinked her eyes sleepily at him, part dream fogged part sheer fatigue, reaching out to grab his arm lightly and try to tug him back to bed. “Too early… Please come back to bed…” She mewled softly before he got up and she burrowed in deeper, a small figure under his blankets as she dug her head into his pillow, stubbornly refusing consciousness but loosing that battle. Well… That and he was sort of not helping… She opened her eyes again to watch him, refusing to budge from her spot at least, shaking her head at his question. “I’m ok… He’s strong but stupid… Like a Neanderthal…” She said softly, mindful he probably had the worst headache this side of a migraine, and made sure not to make any sudden movements either. “Don’t rush… You had a mild concussion that only broke a few hours ago…” She said as she began to push herself into sitting up, his shirt falling off one shoulder but around him she didn’t care, he knew what she looked like anyways after all… The lovely orange lace bralet on display as she rubbed her eyes, running her fingers through her hair as she slumped against the pillow, honestly this was the hardest morning she had ever had. “Jacob it’s just a couple of bruises… It was a failed attempt and if he tried to repeat it I’ll geld him myself with a rusty hospital spork. You though…” She said softly, getting up onto her knees and reaching out for him, to take his hand after he offered her the water. “Don’t you know your precious to me? A rape is an ugly thing but I would have survived… He would have had his go and left and I would have had him thrown into jail and castrated for his crime… But you? Jacob… He really hurt you… Do you know how scared I was? I came up and saw you bloodied and unconscious, I thought he had killed you…” She said and the fear, the sadness from last night was still there lacing her voice, the fact she had been terrified that she had lost him. She set the glass down after she took a sip and pulled him gently to the side of the bed, getting on her knees so she could wrap her arms around him and hold him close. “Your never allowed to scare me like that, do you understand? If you have to go fight some stupid goliath you tell me so I can have your back… I don’t care what your reason for the fight is, I want to go in with you, I want to be at your side…” She said, turning her head to press her lips over his heart, stroking her fingers up and down his bare back. Where you go… I go… If we’re lucky we can see Rincavornon step in a street apple and get hit by a rampaging dung cart… Even if it’s a thousand to one chance, I am so not missing it…” She said before looking up at him, sliding her hands up his chest, curling softly into his shoulders as she arched up to give him a kiss… Only to have it stopped at the knock to the door… She paused, sighed, gave him a small smile before she let him get to the door… She heard the conversation as she sat on his bed, fingers idly tracing along the silken sheets, slowly sliding under them before she turned over…



“Come back to bed… It’s entirely too cold without you…” She said, reaching out to him, curling her fingers invitingly to lure him back to her side… Surely he could appreciate a nap too.. A chance to let the willow bark get to work a bit better… “Please?” She would ask gently before he would hopefully climb back into bed with her… Only while he had been talking she had slipped out of his shirt and wore nothing but that lacy set under it, tuning to face him she curled into him, her head against his chest… It was a delicious tangle of want and need versus sleep and just wanting to be near him… He had just gotten out of a concussion though and a part of her worried if anything even remotely pleasurable would even be safe, let alone pleasant, so while she wanted to… Oh she wanted to try many of these new things in his bed, instead? Instead she wrapped her arms around him and held him close, a soft kiss over his heart, hands gently stroking up and down his back. “Another hour for us… Just for us… Sleep with me… The willow will work better as you rest… We’ll still have plenty of time…” She said quietly before she let herself drift off again, curled into his side and trusting in his arms, the soft warmth of his bed and the feel of him against her lulled her into one of the deepest sleeps she had ever had… One where she dreamed… Chaotic at first, a bunch of flashes and jerks, random memories that skittered about like roaches under the light. It wall went black for a moment and she settled easily into the usual blank sleep but that wasn’t the case, it morphed into something else, something… Decadent… She moaned in her sleep, her body reacting even though there was no stimuli, her dream was vivid enough to cause a physical reaction… They were back in this bed… But before the interruption… Like it hadn’t happened… She was stroking him in her hands, licking and sucking at the head of his cock, her tongue coming out to drag over her lips in memory of his taste… Her heart racing… Skittering… Her breathing picking up… “You taste… So good…” She murmured in her sleep, curling in tighter against him, her fingers once soft along his back curled in just a touch… The light caress of her nails… She moved all the way down his shaft, struggling past the gag reflex at his incredible girth, moaning hungrily as she dove down… Over and over again… Rolling his balls in the palm of her hand while jerking him off in time with her mouth, swallowing more and more of that precum, loosing herself in him… For him… Against him… It was good but… It wasn’t enough… She hadn’t tasted his cum… She didn’t know the richness of it… The complex taste on the dip of her tongue… Her dream shifted as he was over her, the little suckling bite to her shoulder, the feel of his fingers between her thighs… She cried out softly in her sleep, a sound he would be able to recall very well if he was awake to hear any of it, her fingers sliding down between her thighs… In her sleep she was on auto pilot but she remembered how he touched her, sliding the flimsy lace over so she could access her hot sweet core, the shuddering gasp and pleasured whine as she found that delicious button and began to work it over… It took next to nothing at all for her to suddenly climax against her hand, clinging to him in her sleep as she trembled and shook, small little spasms of pleasure that wracked her as the soft sweet scent of her arousal floated on the air… It was close to a drug to her, and the moment she came she suddenly went boneless against him and sunk down into that dreamless nothing that all elves have, where she began to pack on serious restorative sleep…



It was a little over an hour before she woke up again but she felt better now than she had in all the previous bits of sleep she had, though she had absolutely no recollection of what she had done outside of her dream, unaware that if Jacob had woken up… The poor boy would have born witness to her sleep pleasuring herself… She blinked a few times, adjusting to the soft light of the room, more natural now as the coals had burnt out… She paused, carefully slipping out of the bed with him, going over to begin to open up the blinds… Let the natural light come in, the fresh air from outside as she opened the windows, smiling out into the sunshine of a beautiful day… She returned to his bed then and leaned down to kiss his lips softly as he slept, stroking her fingers over his good cheek, through his hair… “Time to wake up, sweet prince…” She said as she would hand him another sliver of willow bark and the water. “I’m going to grab a shower… If you want to join me?” She asked blushing hotly, nibbling her bottom lip a touch, fingers tracing over the bedding. “I mean… This way you don’t have to worry about being harassed by anyone, neither of us do, and we can shower in relative peace… It’s time efficient and does save a bit of trouble.” Which was true, and part of the reason she offered, but not all of it… There was a greedy part to it to, which was she just wanted to see him, naked and relaxed and all to herself… It wasn’t even that she expected something to happen, she just wanted the guilty pleasure of sneaking a few peeks at him, and that wasn’t too bad… Right? “I’m going to grab us a couple of towels… I’ll see you in there if you want to join me…” She said and she would slide back into his shirt like it was her own personal nightgown, smiling down at him one last time before brushing her fingers through his hair and leaving, closing the door quietly behind her. It was a silent trip to her room, someone had cleaned up the blood and teeth from the fight, as well as the broken china and furniture… If not for his wounds and her bruises she could almost believe nothing had happened… She came into her room and closed the door quietly behind her, watering her little melon plant and making sure the blinds were open and the windows just enough to let the breeze come in without it getting too cold for her little sproutling. She looked at the outfits she had picked out… One was a soft cream blouse that was slightly transparent… Another was a sleek black power suit that Anouk swore she would kill in… And the third… The third was what she chose, after the events of last night and everything else, she felt she needed something more… Not the power house suit that made her look like a woman on the war path… She didn’t feel like that today… She didn’t feel like the sweet girl that would wear the skirt and shirt either… Which left the slate blue dress with the open keyhole front that was meant to remain open to show off a woman’s décolleté… She might have a smaller bust but she had enough to make that dress very temping indeed. She packed up the other two along with their shoes, leaving out the pair of black pumps that went with the dress and the sharp black purse, and of course a set of underthings that she realized… While she had never worn them before… She definitely saw the fun and appeal in them now… Once they were all set out on the bed and ready to go, she locked the door from the inside and the out, so anyone trying to break into it again was going to end up with a rather unpleasant explosion of itching powder tossed at them from a packet pressure sealed in the door frame. She had her basket of bathroom things under one arm and their towels in the other, wondering if Jacob had found his present yet, surely he would see the box on his dresser when he went to pick his clothes out right? She hoped he would like his gift, the little pocket watch styled music box for him, a smile on her lips as she made her way into the bathroom and started her shower.

[Deleted]

..no one would have believed any of them if they'd tried to explain what had happened in the last 24 even 36 hours.. it was insanity at its finest.. crash after crash after crash.. people wrote books about this kind of stuff.. the fight had occured up stairs.. fists flew.. blood splattered.. gentle talks happened on the lower levels.. truths slowly came out.. a little honesty and then some more.. as if they were slowly frightening off the horror filled lies that were causing everyone So much grief.. at its core.. all the problems so far came about from miscommunication and deceit.. she and Kit had helped Jacob into his room.. Faelon appearing soon there after to just check on the patient whilst the other Doctor was being cleaned up down stairs.. he checked a few of Jacobs vitals.. his eyes.. his pulse.. looking for bleeding and the like.. Jacob seemed alright just unconscious..

Faelon looked up when she spoke.. more so about wanting to know what had happened to cause such bad blood between these two.. he took a breath and nodded.. his arms crossing there as he slid that small flash light into his breast pocket-..Its not really my place to say.. -he glanced down to Jacob there before turning his gaze up to her once more-.. lets just say.. that before I moved in.. they were very good friends.. -he nodded-.. Rincavornon was Jacobs Best Man at his wedding.. -he nodded.. sliding his hands then down into his jean pockets.. he paused then.. as if.. choosing his words wisely-..... there was a bit of deception.. some pretty horrible behaviour.. and a dash of infidelity.. -his brows furrowed a little-.. For a man of Jacobs age..he's incredibly strong.. less would have broken even stronger men..Get some rest Rose.. ill check on you both in the morning.. call upon me if anything happens.. Ill be just down stairs.. -he nodded.. not about to linger before he moved to step out.. drawing the door closed behind him..

she had helped him out a great deal in that moment.. having been able to locate just the right ingredients to make up the salve .. helping him get out of his clothing.. before he would be resting down closer to her.. she tended to his wounds.. his cuts and swelling.. if he could see all this.. if he could watch her.. he would have been incredibly impressed by her skill and initiative.. that and the care she was taking.. he seemed to lull a little in and out of a semi conscious state.. never fully waking though his lids would lift just in short bursts.. the two of them falling into that blissful slumber after she sang him that beautiful tune.. he may not have been able to respond.. or really hear it..

but he did.. at the same time.. just not consciously.. his mind even at rest was getting to know her voice.. he woke her with his ramblings of Cora.. his pleadings.. his tense and shuddered state.. a few truths whispered.. spoken softly.. directed at her.. though he knew not that he was even speaking them.. it was an almost admition.. that she gave him butterflies.. that he did like her.. that there was something there.. that he felt something when she came into the room.. when she smiled.. when she spoke.. he knew what it felt like to fall for someone.. he knew what those initial stages were like and how ..almost foreign.. how alien they could be..

his problem was that he wasn't sure he could.. he wasn't sure he was ready to jump.. to fall again.. and then there was the simple fact that she was his student.. he was her teacher.. he was for all intents and purposes her senior.. and he could be seen as to be taking advantage.. he struggled with those thoughts a lot.. the two of them slept properly then for a few more hours.. good deep sleep..before he would wake.. feeling like he'd been hit by a carriage at full speed.. going to reach to rub at his eyes before thinking better of it.. the skin though no longer swollen was still a little bruised.. still a bit sore.. he moved to sit up.. little too quickly before he groaned and slowed right down.. drawing himself into a standing position.. leaning against the side of the bedding there.. he could hear her murmuring.. hear her sighing.. her soft fingers curling around his arm before she curled in tighter with the bedding all wrapped around her.. -.. mm.. no it's not actually that early.. least.. i dont think so.. -he couldn't remember much at all in that moment.. his head was throbing.. like someone was stabbing him in the back of it with a rusty knife.. over and over.. matching the beating of his heart.. he asked her if she was ok.. as he rummaged around in the desk.. seeking out the willow and a cup of water.. he leant against the chair there.. his lids half open as he took another sip from the cup.. kind of watching her.. -.. mm.. -his hand rose as he rubbed the side of his head.. reaching back around as he winced a little.. the place where he contacted with the floor was quite sore-.. I'm sure il be alright.. I'm not so worried about myself..

-he went to shake his head before changing his mind.. not needing the extra ringing.. he slowly approached the bed.. passing her the cup should she want it.. offering her the apology he felt she deserved.. he had a choice to make the moment he ran up those stairs.. he could have tended to her.. but he didn't.. his anger got the better of him and he ended up in a fist fight.. he tilted his head when she spoke on her worries and concerns.. that Rincavornon could have killed him.. that she actually thought he had died.. that he was to never do that again.. he rubbed his lips together-.. Im sorry I frightened you Rose.. it was of course not my intention.. I allowed an old wound to be opened and it took the reigns and fueled my anger.. I should not have acted out the way I did.. I should have walked away.. You however will not have my back.. or any such nonsense.. for I wont be in that situation in the first place.. and id never want to put you in any danger.. -she settled on her knees there wrapping her arms around him as he looked down to her.. he felt her warm lips pressing to his chest.. just near to his heart..

he asked her if she still wanted to go today.. that he would understand if she wanted to remain behind.. her comment made him laugh a little.. even if it was quite a weakened attempt-.. well you are more than welcome of course.. -he leant down a touch when she rose up.. had Faelon left it a moment longer they would have shared a small soft kiss.. but no it was interrupted.. he slowly pulled away from her as he approached the door.. leaning against the frame with his arms crossing his chest.. the two Doctors talked for a little while.. not in any great detail.. just a few things about the trip.. who was going.. what time they hoped to be leaving.. that he was glad to see Jacob up and about.. he thanked Faelon for everything before the door would be drawn back closed..

the room growing a little darker from it.. though little spots of light would peek through the curtains here and there indicating it was indeed well into the morning outside.. he glanced to her over the rim of the cup when she held her hand out to him.. calling him back to bed.. -.. just for a little while.. still a lot to organise before we have to go.. -he nodded a touch.. placing the cup down upon the side table there before he slipped back between the covers.. she curled in closer to him.. pressing against him.. his arm draped around her as he felt her lips pressing to his chest once more.. his chin atop her head.. she felt so soft when she was close to him like this.. and she smelt incredibly good.. he couldn't help the smile that settled upon his weary features.. his finger tips played lightly along the back of the bra she had on.. feeling the lace there.. the delicate nature of the fabric beneath his finger tips.. he wasn't certain if it was something she always wore.. something that was new.. it felt nice.. and no doubt looked even better.. and if his brain wasn't complete mush he would have probably taken a proper look..

he felt her relax there in his arms.. her breathing regulating against his chest.. before he allowed his eyes to close over.. and he soon followed.. only to be stirred awake by the sounds of her soft little moan.. his brows furrowed a little.. he tilted his head back to look down to her.. the lighting in the room was still quite dark.. he couldn't make out a lot.. though those whispered lusty words struck him like a bat.. he cleared his throat a little.. he could feel a heat crossing his cheeks.. .oh dear god. he thought to himself.. it just made the memories of the night play on a highlight reel .. making him have to force a quiet breath through his grit down teeth.. he swallowed when she moaned and his head pressed a little harder into the pillow when she cried out.. oh he remembered that all to well..he felt her shifting.. and he was stuck.. wondering if he should wake her.. his body was doing its best to betray him.. even with more insistence when he witnessed her reaching down between her own thighs o pleasure herself.. he whined softly.. gripping the bedding a little tighter than before.. -.. Rose.. -he whispered under his breath-.. if you had any idea what you were doing to me.. -he exhaled.. forcing out that breath when she rode that climax suddenly.. feeling her body trembling against him as she clung on so tightly.. before she fell back to sleep..

there was no way he was going back to sleep after that.. there was no chance he could even if he really need to.. he was wide fucking awake..he re positioned himself so he wouldn't be rubbing up against her.. forcing away the thoughts that were circling his mind like birds and their prey.. allowing his eyes to close... he struggled with the sandman a little before he would inevitably drift off.. his body settling down as his dreams blacked out.. his mind realising he needed the sleep to heal.. he was woken though when she pressed her lips to his.. causing him to stir.. to slowly draw into a seated position.. noticing the curtains were drawn.. the scent of the mid morning air was filtering through.. still quite groggy.. he heard her say she was going to have a shower and that he was welcome to join her.. he nodded a little-.. I might.. in a little bit.. you go on ahead.. ill be there in a moment.. -his hands rose as he slid them across his face there.. and back through his hair.. pausing to catch a glimpse of that sweet lacy little number she had on before it was covered by his shirt.. he rolled his neck a little.. smacking his lips together as she drew the door closed behind her and he groaned.. sliding back down into the bedding there .. another deep breath drawn.. -.. Get a grip.. comeon.. -he scolded himself before he drew up and out of the bed there..

his body wasn't terribly happy with the idea of movement just yet.. and he swayed and stumbled a little until he was able to gain his balance.. he just needed to stretch and he'd be fine.. downing the remainder of the water.. he pulled out the clothing he needed for the carriage ride.. something neat.. casual.. nothing too formal just yet.. least not till they had arrived.. gathering up those few bits and pieces before he stepped out into the hallway.. drawing his door closed behind him.. he caught sight of Kit there.. at the end of the corridor.. he nodded his head to her.. she did much the same.. offering a little wave in response.. before she disappeared back down the stairs.. he came to the bathroom door there..checking if it was locked.. before he made his way inside.. he was greeted with that cloud of steam that just hung loose there..-.. It's just me.. -he would call out to her.. unsure if she was in there but figuring she must have been.. he drew the door lock across there as he placed his clothing down upon the wooden seat..

he'd approach one of the showers against the left wall there.. across from where she was.. turning the taps.. regulating the temperature.. keeping it nice and warm.. he could definitely use a shower.. he still had Rincavornon's blood in his hair.. along with god knows what else.. before he hooked his thumbs in those loose cotton shorts of his.. drawing them down.. tossing them aside.. leaving him bare.. completely naked.. though his back was to her at this stage.. his legs were quite muscular and defined.. though they were lean.. not extremely thick.. his back was much the same.. fine lines.. though it also held a covering of intricate patterns and designs.. he dipped his head under the water there.. tipping it forward as he murmured at the feeling.. it was incredible.. fucking incredible even how good that felt.. -.. are you looking forward to the trip Rose?.. to getting away for a little while?.. seeing somewhere new?.. -he held that bar of sandalwood and lime scented soap.. rubbing it across his arms.. the broadness of his chest and shoulders.. rinsing away all the grime and sweat.. the blood and dust.. it was doing wonders for his aching muscles though.. soothing.. relaxing.. calming..

he glanced over his shoulder every so often.. getting a glimpse.. a slight peek almost of her there.. through the foggy haze.. the shape of her figure.. the curves.. how extremely well proportioned she was.. though he had mapped out a great deal of her body when he had the chance to be up close and personal with it.. something he was not about to forget anytime soon-..might be a bit silly to admit.. but Im a little nervous about the conference.. about the lecture.. it's not that its my first.. Ive given them before.. more times than I think I can even count if Im completely honest.. but.. of this size.. no.. and there will be some incredibly important people at this one.. -he exhaled.. rolling his neck a he allowed the water to run over his face.. his eyes closing-.. Im prepared.. utterly so.. just.. perhaps a little.. apprehensive.. it's silly.. -he gave his hair a bit of a rub.. a scrub and shake there.. he exhaled softly.. turning the water off then as he reached for his towel.. rubbing it across his hair.. down the back of his shoulders.. wrapping it about his middle.. -.. I will leave you too it.. Im sure you can behave yourself..

-he shot her a wink there before he gathered up his things and he stepped out.. drawing the door closed behind him before he disappeared back into his own room.. his clothing layed out upon the bed.. dried the rest of himself off.. placing the towel over the back of a chair as he slid on another pair of shorts.. jeans and a short sleeve button up shirt.. a dark coloured vest.. he was finishing the final button tie when he noticed the box there.. the pouch .. it was new.. something he had not seen in the room before.. and he pretty much knew Everything in there.. raking his fingers back through his damp hair he plucked it up.. sinking down to sit upon his chair there as he opened it up.. the note first though.. curious indeed.. -.. mm.. intriguing.. just what are you up to my dear..

-he drew it open and his heart took a bit of a tumble.. his mouth fell open when he plucked out that fob.. letting it rest against his palm there.. turning it over.. popping it open.. -.. Oh wow.. -he was stunned.. utterly so.. and honoured that she would get him such a gift.. it spoke volumes really.. in that they had really not know one another for long at all.. but yet she knew enough.. she knew that this would speak to him.. it would be something that he would cherish.. something that he would treasure.. he had nothing for her.. and he felt he had to do something.. even if it was small.. a gesture.. something.. just until he had a chance to do more..

when she returned to her room she'd find the tiniest of gestures.. a four flower bouquet of forget me nots.. just the smallest little blue flowers.. tied with an almost invisible yellow ribbon.. the smell of his cologne lingering in her room.. he was down stairs.. there was no real time to settle in for a proper breakfast.. or lunch for that matter.. everything had been turned upside down.. three carriages were waiting out front.. one for Faelon and Jacob.. one for the Student Doctors.. and then one for Rincavornon.. who no one really wanted to travel with.. but of whom had to attend.. he was running an evening class afterall.. even in his state.. though perhaps Luna and Ellen could have riden with him.. not that he would want to see either of them .. not after the stunt they pulled.. the air would be a bit thick.. he stood there.. making sure the bags were being placed and packed securely..-.. Perhaps it would be better if Rose and Kit rode up front with us then.. -he nodded..asking this of Faelon.. figuring it might be just an easier ride with several parties being separated.. Faelon nodded in agreeance.. he didn't see any problem with it.. and his girls would travel with anyone.. they would never be swayed by idle gossip.. they knew what they had to lose if they did.. -

[BadInfluence]

It was almost like an Opera de Italia, plenty of betrayal and secret plots, more than a couple of divas and villains. Honestly, if they had scripted it they might have made a drama for the ages, but it was hard to put things to pen when you’re living in the middle of it all. Instead they had to endure it and hold on from moment to moment, and for her, it seemed like someone had shaken up the snow globe she called her life. Shouldn’t have been such a giant change… Honestly it was just like going back to school, but for her it was sort of a wild shift in the parameters of her life, suddenly walls were gone while she was busy erecting others. Like Luna and Ellen, she had always known they were nasty, callous women… Really rotten to their core without much of any redeeming features… But seeing them now? Like this? It was enough to make her ill just imagining that people could be so damned nasty. Worse still was seeing it directed not just at her, but at Jacob too, and at Kit… She might have felt saddest for her, Kit wasn’t a bad person, she just ended up getting stuck in with the wrong people. It was up to Kit to decide if she wanted to dig herself out though, no one could do it for her, but that seemed to be the mode de operatum for just about everyone here… For some reason she felt like she was the only one who didn’t have some crazy chaotic past full of drama and lies… Well perhaps Dr. Faelon was the second, between the two of them, they were perhaps the least traumatized.



Speaking of trauma though, Jacob was in pretty bad shape, far from death but not exactly out of the woods either… Head injuries were always the hardest to manage, they could be nothing or they could suddenly become fatal, and there was no real way to tell outside of waiting it out. Dr. Faelon had come in to check on him and in those moments he dropped a bomb in her lap, and she could either defuse it or let it go off, and while considering her respect for privacy… A part of her needed to know why… Something had happened, something terrible and it showed in how the two had gotten into that fight, and what ever it was… She couldn’t help keep Jacob safe if she didn’t know… It was a very tough internal war she faced, hell between a need to know and her inherent respect for privacy, and scared of what lay on either side… She was thankful Dr. Faelon didn’t go into detail, she didn’t want to know it all, she just wanted to know a little… A reason… Something small but at least good enough for her to perhaps puzzle the rest out in her head. When he had finished telling her though she let out a soft sigh, looking to Jacob there in the bed, a look of sadness in her eyes… “Thank you… At least this way I know enough to try and head off anything that might be attempted in the future… A chance to stop something like this happening again… Thank you so much Dr. Faelon, I won’t breathe a word of this to anyone, and if anyone asks I didn’t hear a thing…” She wouldn’t say she had heard it from him, she wouldn’t admit to having heard it at all, and a part of her… A big part… Felt like hell for even asking it of him… It went against so much she held very true to herself but with Jacob, she needed to help him, she needed to find a way to keep him safe… She couldn’t expect to do a good job of that from the shadows could she? Of course… One might have wondered why she was in the first place, and a big part of her just didn’t know, it just felt like the right thing to do… Something that was as much a part of her as her hands or ears…



The salve was her best attempt at a stop gap, she could have resorted to things like icing it, but with a concussion she was afraid the chill would prove too much a shock to his system and perhaps make it worse. Some regular types of creams and ointments would have worked well too, but they would have only been a small measure, and given his placement at the Lecture as the main speaker? She knew he needed more. She worked with what he had on hand, and given his own ability to store and categorize things he had, it was easy enough to pick through the items to find the right cocktail… Something for swelling, something for bruising, and something for cuts and abrasions. Together they were blended with fresh powdered herbs, doing her best to mix something as potent as she could, while also keeping in mind this was his personal stock and not something to just be used willy nilly. She made good use of what she had learned and what she knew, combined with what he had on hand and managed something that would help, though it was far from a Hail Mary. Sadly, she could only do so much, and while it was better than it was? It would still show tomorrow… Just… Thankfully… Not as badly… What would she have said if he could see her? Would she be proud? Shy? Embarrassed? Would she try to explain? Or would she say nothing at all? After all this was a treatment greater than perhaps a friend would give, the way she held him in her arms while a friend might have sat on the end of the bed, perhaps on the side… It was a hard place to be, a foreign visitor to alien lands, and around him she definitely felt like she was on a whole differing planet. She liked being around him, liked the easy friendship and comradery they shared, their matched wit and teasing humor… He made her happy, really and truly happy, which was for her an almost immigrant feeling in herself as it stood. She’d never known a happiness like this and she wasn’t sure if it was something she should hold onto or not.



They slept for a while, something about having him in her arms made her slip into sleep faster than she normally would have, her cheek pressed to the top of his head. She had never sung to anyone before, and perhaps it might not count with him being unconscious, but she wondered if her voice might help lead him somewhere better… It was hard to say, but either way she drifted with him, lulled into a sleep state while a part of her stayed awake… Alert… Ready for any sign of his condition changing. It was why he had so easily woken her from her sleep when he began to suffer from a night terror, and to say it hurt to see was an understatement, her heart bled for him in those moments… After what Dr. Faelon had said, what he himself was admitting, and the fact she could well enough put two and two together? If Cora wasn’t dead yet she might wish she was if only for the fact she would wage a truly horrific war on that woman for the damage she had done to him. How could anyone… Anyone… Ever hurt Jacob like that? He was a good soul, a loving heart and a genuine person, the sort you wish would fall in love with you because of how much better your life would be with him in it… Look at what he had done with hers, in the span of two days he managed to somehow brush away the clouds of her life, leaving her in a warm field of sunshine and flowers where there was just bare dirt… Who would dream of ruining someone who could bring so much joy? It boggled her mind and she couldn’t begin to understand why there was so much raw evil in the world… The confession that came later after he calmed… The way his heart sped up, the smile on his lips, he changed her again… Challenged her… Made her want to ask and yet she dare not… These weren’t the secrets he was choosing to share with her, these were meant for another, and she felt dirty… Like she was listening in, eves dropping on a private conversation that wasn’t hers to hear, and yet… When he said what he did, she figured she wasn’t the only one feeling these things, but even so… What did that make for them? She didn’t know how to move and he might not want to… It was a stalemate with two people looking at one another with a pane of glass between them, and unless one was willing to break it, it would bet here as sure as any steel curtain…



Would they never really meet? Would he let his sorrow and pain from Cora keep him from coming to her? Would she let her own concern and respect for his choices and feelings keep her from pushing through?



They slept again and when he awoke she was perhaps a bit groggy, surely not ready to wake up, and if he hadn’t insisted on moving she might have just held him in bed with her. Instead she slowly moved to sit up, dragging herself out of the warm soft bed, blinking sleepily in the darkness. “Hush cuckoo bird… I said it’s early and so it is… Cause I said so… So there…” She mumbled sleepily and yawned, rubbing her eyes softly as she watched him carefully, making sure he didn’t move too fast or do anything rash. He was hurting but she knew from what she had seen in the last couple days that he was a plucky one and wouldn’t stay down for long. He asked for her concern and she told him it was a clumsy attempt but she was fine, and his apology was unneeded, but him… She was upset with him, upset he would put his own welfare on such a low level, to risk himself like that. Yes, she was definitely upset! When he replied the way he did though she looked at him with questions in her eyes, coming to kneel on the side of the bed there, a brow raised gently. “You can’t tell me what to do… That’s a right reserved for a lover and since we are friends, I can and will, fully guard you if you do act so foolish as to get yourself neck deep in trouble.” Which was the truth. A friend might ask one not to, but you don’t tell them, and she took it as a sort of personal challenge with the words he chose. She was not to have his back… Yeah.. Right. She knew from last night that this blood with Rincavornon was not going to end tonight, tomorrow, or any time soon. That sort of wound runs deep, and a single fight isn’t going to fix it, ten probably wouldn’t either. Something deeper than fists would be needed to put this ghost to rest, and she knew all it needed was the right elements before it would happen again, and again after that… How could he think just because he was honorable that others would be? All he had to do was look at his past to know just how evil they were… How nasty even those he loved could be… It was the flaw of the human race, their hearts change easily, like the flow of seasons they can shift from love to hate in the matter of a day… She was raised a human but in her bones she was an elf, and she knew the way she felt versus them, and she could never be like them… Never want to love someone who could die so easily… Or who’s heart and flesh could so easily be turned… She got to her knees and wrapped her arms around him, holding him close before she kissed the spot over his heart, easing the possible sting in her words… She would listen to him when he was right, but if he thought for two seconds she would let him go in alone, he was wrong… “To what? The trip? Or hopefully watching someone get some just desserts… Or should I say phosphorus?” She said with a teasing laugh. She wouldn’t be kept here for the world, no matter what had happened she wanted to see this big city, to attend the lecture on something she needed to learn. Wanted to understand more of… She rose a touch higher, and if not for that knock, she would have had the pleasure of his lips on hers for a moment…



She didn’t blame the loss of the moment, she knew there would probably be more than a few of these, and she was just glad for the moments they did occur. Instead she slipped down into the bedding and lured him into it with her with soft words and gestures, her lips curling into a smile at his words, honestly he was too perfect sometimes… “Just for a little…” She ceded to him and was so happy to have him come into bed with her, curling into him once he lay down beside her, nestling in close and comfortable. She pressed another soft kiss to his chest as she sighed softly when he laid his arm over her, something about it was so perfect to feel him holding her, like a sin too delicious to abstain from… Even more so as his fingers traced over her skin, part of it lulling her down into a sweet decadent sleep, another part made her want to stay awake so she could feel it for as long as it lasted… It was hard not to, not with him, he was like that first taste of candy… The first sip of wine… The feel of rain on your skin or that first warm breeze after a cold winter… He smelled amazing, something sweet and citrus, clean and musky all at once… He was muscled beautifully in her mind, the perfect mix of soft and hard, a map she wanted to explore with her fingers and tongue… He was… He was the one thing she wanted… Which scared her… To want something when you’re whole life you’ve been told not to… It was heart breaking in it’s own way, the orphan wanting something for herself, something to call her own… Someone to love her… That was like asking for unicorns and rainbows to walk beside her every moment of her life and for every wish to come true the moment she asked for it.. It just wasn’t going to happen… Instead she took all he was willing to offer and wouldn’t dare ask for more, she wouldn’t expect him to make most moves, if she did she knew he wouldn’t… He had felt terrible the night he kissed her even though it was the most wonderful night in the world to her… How could she expect him to be more forward now? It just wasn’t… It wasn’t her luck. Still, against her attempts she fell asleep under his soft touches and gentle warmth, the smell of him like a sweet candle’s scent under her skin as she drifted…



Which was perhaps why her dreams turned the way they did, being here in his room was like a temple to her, and he was her god… Being near him like this would probably always trigger something, it was like he and his room together triggered the feeling she had felt that night in full swing, and by God he made her want him… Want him desperate enough for her dreams to replay what had happened so strongly her body demanded release, even in sleep, her hands touching him… Lightly scoring her nails down his back… It wasn’t much longer there before her hands drifted down and she climaxed hard and sweet against him, going softer than butter in his arms, and while she was still asleep… A part of her had heard him… “Tell me…” She moaned in her sleep, curling into him, her body still a touch trembly after that incredible peak… Seeking out to come as close to him as she could, her head atop his chest, her leg draped over his… “I want you too…” She sighed softly, but that was the end of her sleep talking, and nothing short of her own natural waking was going to shake her. She was too sated, too warm and comfortable, beautifully rested and in the place she liked the most… No when she woke? It was all natural and with time to pack and leave sure enough, slipping quietly from the bed to open the curtains and the windows just a touch, letting the natural light and clean air in for him. She slipped to his side then and leaned down to softly kiss his lips as a wake-up call, waiting for him to open his eyes before she would ask if he wanted to join her in the showers, she would grab one before they left and this way they could guard each others backs from the chaos that seemed to be ever present. “Mmhmm, I’ll see you there, I’ll bring you a towel.” She said as she left, grabbing up his shirt that was her make shift nightgown, unaware he was watching her as she did so… She would have loved to know what he thought of her in it, but for now she was more intent on getting a nice hot shower and getting ready for the trip, and maybe… Maybe a little less puritan thought of seeing him naked… A part of her felt incredibly shameful about it, like she knew she shouldn’t be doing it, and yet… Oh and yet… It was like asking a fat kid not to eat cake… For a flower now to grow towards the sun… For a wolf not to hunt the deer… He was her addiction, her guilty pleasure, her secret sin… Everything about him made her want to watch…



She had started up her shower and made sure there was enough for him as well, no shortage of hot water here thank god with the springs and such, so she was able to enjoy a very nice long one indeed if she wanted… The steam was low, enough to be pleasant and afford perhaps a bit of privacy but not enough to be cloying, to sit heavy on the skin and lungs. The gentle scent of jasmine and black coriander, a hint of licorice and a touch of something sweet and musky… That was her soap for the day, something delicately feminine and alluring, almost mysterious and definitely captivating. She was currently washing her hair, her eyes closed but her ears wide open, twitching softly as the door opened and closed. “Hello Just Me… Your towel is there on the bench for you when you’re done.” She teased with a smile on her face before she went to rinse, refusing to miss a moment of seeing him in all his natural beauty, slicking her hair off her face as she openly turned to look at him… To steal a few sinful moments… When her eyes dipped down his back to his ass she actually ended up dropping her soap like a ninny, her thoughts scattered as she realized his pants, nothing he wore could do him justice… The sleek oval dips on the sides of his narrow, well muscled hips, the way they tapered down to long muscled legs that made her own weak… “Jesus Christ…” She breathed as her heart raced wildly and she had to grip the sides there to keep from walking over to him and exploring with her hands what she saw with her eyes… Instead she turned around quickly, cheeks flaming, and began to apply a thick cream to her hair… She would be styling it today so she wanted it to be a little heavier than normal, so the rich hair mask would help tame some of the more wild curls of her hair, making it a touch sleeker and more uniform. She let that set while she began to wash up herself, thankfully all elves are hairless (at least the women!) and she didn’t have to work about razors or other things, instead she simply lavished care on her skin in the form of the rich soft soap she made herself. She turned off the shower for a few minutes and walked over to the side where the buckets and ladles sat, a chance to pay closer attention to some parts of the body, to let certain thinks soak in. She was carefully tending to her nails as she soaked, making sure things were neat and even, not too long or too short. Trimming any hand nails or cuticles, the basic small things of self-maintenance, keeping herself neat and clean as was the demand at the orphanage. At his question she looked up to see him leaning there, the water rolling down his back and into the dip there, just about melting into putty before she answered. “I am, yes. Growing up I never thought I would have the chance to leave, to go explore new places or see new things, I always felt like… I had to stay for some reason… Like there was something I was waiting for but I didn’t know what. I guess we all grow out of those things and I can honestly say I feel very lucky. I don’t think anyone I grew up with has gone very far at all, so I will be the farthest traveled one, it’s all rather exciting really.” She said with a soft laugh as she shook her head, picking up the bucket of water then and began to slowly sponge off the soap after it had a good chance to soak in, leaving her skin softer than cashmere and beautifully scented. “I’m wild to see what their library is like… What their book stores carry… Will they have even newer medical books? Will they have some sort of controversial information that is considered too taboo to practice? What sort of break throughs have they recorded? What wild beautiful things have they discovered and catalogued on their pages for me to read? I want to see what the people are like… How they interact… What they do… I want to see what buildings are there, are they old or new, how different are they from ours? Is their tea good? What about their food? Do they play music on the streets for people to hear? It’s all rather amazing and I really can’t wait to discover it.” She was part adventurer, she liked to see life for the sake of it, not because she wanted to see where she measured on it. More so she just wanted to see the flow of it, to watch it all spin by like pictures on a wheel, observing but never taking part… Jacob was the first, and last, picture she touched and the only one she would ever immerse herself in. Even so, she didn’t think he would be too keen on joining her, so she fully expected to be going this part of it alone. She figured there would be time between attending the lectures and study to go adventuring and she was going to fully explore every moment of this new city.



She was just starting to rinse her hair when he confessed he was nervous and she paused for a moment before she continued, running her fingers through her hair as she slowly rinsed it with cold water, shivering at the contrast. So he felt that way, did he? She remained silent for a moment, listening to him in more than just his words, but the feelings behind them… “It means a lot to me that your willing to share this… It isn’t easy to admit, being nervous or apprehensive, it’s too close to fear and no one wants to admit that emotion… For some reason people think it’s weak… But it’s the absence of those emotions that mark the real flaw, because if you aren’t feeling those things, then you’re not fully submitting yourself to the moment.” She said gently, not loud or soft, just enough for him to hear her over the sound of the shower. She finished rinsing her hair and slicked it back, her pretty pointed ears easily seen when not hidden by her hair, slowly wringing it out behind her. “It’s not silly at all Jacob… It’s a very real and sincere emotion… Don’t be afraid to feel them, and don’t think it makes you less for it either, instead… Think of this as your complete immersion into what is coming, the fact you care so much about it that you’re fully embracing all of it, unhesitant and unashamed… Take these emotions, these feelings and run with them, let them fuel you and help you make something truly unique and solely… Entirely… Completely you, Jacob. This is your moment… Don’t be afraid to shine.” To her? He already shone like Polaris, the most brilliant and beautiful star in the sky, a fixed point in her life and the light she wanted to follow. She paused as he got out and wrapped the towel around his waist, a bit sad that the show was over, but at the same time? She wasn’t sure she could honestly take another minute without getting up and touching him… Something, given his last experience in the shower, she was NOT keen on repeating. Instead she was running a comb through her hair and that comment of his. Her jaw dropped a little and she picked up her wash cloth and threw it at him with a laugh, watching it slap and stick to his arm before sliding down, blowing a very loud raspberry at him. “Really, you are SUCH a turkey! Behave myself indeed!” She said unable to help the laughter as she watched him go, resting her chin on her knuckles as he went, wondering if he knew how much of her he took with him when he left… Every time she saw him it was like he took another part of her, like a child collecting berries he plucked off piece after piece of her, leaving her feeling a little lighter each time…



She got up not long after him, wrapped in a towel and as pretty as she was going to get, walking out and into her room before removing the bobby trap and slipping in. How in the world he had gotten in without triggering it, she didn’t know, but she knew he had been in there by the way it smelled… His cologne lingered on the air and it made her a little weak in the knees, made her room suddenly feel that much more precious to her, a place he had been in with her… She sorted through her last outfits, packed up the ones that didn’t pass muster, and was all done in a matter of moments. All she had to do now was get dressed and do her hair, deciding on three books to take with her for the trip, and again her savings… She might see a book or twelve that she wanted to take with her! She would be lying though if she said getting dressed in all this new stuff was more than a little… Um… Well almost… Traumatic? Ok not that bad… But it was just… Nuts… She slipped on a matching set that would complement the dress, a soft shade of royal blue silk with black lace, sliding on the dress next was when things got a little… Chaotic… Oh it was beautiful, most assuredly it was a gorgeous dress, stunning… But it fit her like a glove from head to toe. If not for the slit up the back of it she might not even be able to wash in it! But… Anouk had said she had the figure to flaunt it… So many, nearly all the clothes really, were designed around that. This was a shade of a deep slate blue that really complimented her skin tone, longer sleeves and hemline to hide the bruises, and a perfect bow collar that sat a little higher on her neck. Her only concession to jewelry was a simple watch and a pair of little golden hoops with rose charms dangling off the ends. She slipped on a pair of high heels, something again Anouk swore was a must, and given her short stature the added inches were nice… But jesus Christ on crack did no one understand these were impossible to walk in! She had to pace around her room a good dozen times before she could make a round without bumping into something! Thank God for her natural grace and balance or she probably wouldn’t be able to manage it at all! She finally sat at her desk and began to do her hair, splitting it on the side and doing two pretty spiral curls along the crown of her head to gather at the end, spilling in loose sleek curls down her back. It was high and off her face, and it really flattered her pretty features, her big eyes and plush lips with her little nose… She looked at her face, tilting her head one way then the other, wondering if Jacob would like it… Did Jacob even really see her? He said he hadn’t been under the influence that night but… He hadn’t tried or asked since that night… Her little attempts… Small overtures… Were returned but not embroidered on… Maybe he changed his mind?... Only liked her in the moonlight and when he saw what he did in the sun it was less so?... She honestly wished these things could be more… Straight forward… She dug around a little bit in the cosmetic bag Anouk sorted and pulled out a little tin of red lip balm, applying just a little bit to her lips, just enough to add a hint of color but nothing more. She packed that up as well before sliding her books and journals into her bag, making sure she had pencils and rubbers, plenty of material to not only read on the trip but also to take notes…



She was unaware he had found his gift, but she had hoped he might see it before they left, she really wanted him to know how grateful she was to him. She simply figured his presence in her room was maybe something to do with a book perhaps, leaving one there or the like, but she couldn’t spot it. Instead, what she saw was something there, almost missed if she hadn’t gathered up one last book… A certain one she would have left behind but… She was curious and she wanted to know… It was there, behind it that she saw the bouquet and her heart stopped and she felt the world flip all over again, sitting on the end of her bed to pluck them up… The thin yellow ribbon that bound them… She gently ran her fingers over the blossoms, breathing in their soft scent, the gentle perfume… “Oh Jacob… As if I could ever forget you…” She breathed and carefully plucked just one from the bunch and set it in her hair so he could see she noticed it, the rest she carefully put in a vase and sealed it, gently spelling it so that they would never wilt… Trapped in a time capsule so she could look at them and remember… Just how wonderful it felt… Her first present from someone she liked… A man she liked no less… It was perfect and honestly she couldn’t imagine a better gift, for her it spoke volumes, the fact he knew she loved plants and picked a flower as precious as forget me nots… It made her heart roll and twist and fly up into the sky like a rocket, exploding into fireworks only to drift down like stardust… She picked up the last of her gear and headed downstairs, watching Ellen and Luna both stop dead in their tracks and stare, but she couldn’t be bothered with them right now. Farther down the landing she passed a few others, some of Dr. Faelons students who openly had their jaws drop a bit and she began to wonder if she had done something wrong, but aside from the fact it was different… She didn’t think she had made a mistake? She came out onto the open air landing and while she had managed the stairs and floors just fine… This was soft earth and grass… She slowly stepped out, careful not to put pressure on her heels, terrified she would sink into the earth. She was about to get into the wrong carriage, having opened the door to see Rincavornon there and she jerked back, almost like she was burned. Surely they wouldn’t stick here with him after?... She paused and stepped back, closing the door without sparing him so much as a word or a glance, looking to one of the other carriages. It wasn’t until she saw Kit waving her down that she saw where they were to sit, smiling and making her way to them, and she managed that part alright… It wasn’t until she went to hand her bag up that she ended up sinking a heel into one of the grates of the steps and ended up falling back right into Dr. Faelon. Thankfully he saw what had happened and had managed to catch her rather than drop her in the dirt, easing her up into the carriage before handing her the offending shoe, blushing fiercely but nodding her head. “I’m sorry… New shoes… Apparently they get easier with practice…” She said with an embarrassed laugh as she slipped her heel back on and settled into her seat, her eyes darting up to catch Jacobs and a warm smile on her lips, sure he could see his flower in her hair…



She settled in with Kit next to her and she handed her a journal and book, it was one of the first one’s she had read and while it was behind the times with a lot of the more modern ones, it was also a lot easier to grasp and gave her a good starting point. She had promised to tutor her and she was going to, starting her off with the right pages to read and where to focus, and let her have at it. Away from Ellen and Luna Kit wasn’t a bad study at all, she was quiet outside of asking various small questions, ones she answered herself or would allow Jacob or Dr. Faelon to answer. As the time ticked by she went through book from book, and about part way through she snuck into her back with a wink and a small whisper, handing them all care packages with snacks… Butter and bread, jelly and fruits, bits of cheese and jerky… Dry but delicious thinks that they could nibble on while they rode. As they snacked, she switched her books out to one she wanted to poke at, something was eating at her mind and the book was far more informative than anything else in this area, and thankfully there was no cover… But she had put a fake duster on it anyways to keep anyone from wondering what was going on… So long as she kept away from the later part of the book no one would be the wiser… So while Kit studied and Jacob with Dr. Faelon did their own thing, she read that book on desire and passion that Jacob had given her, and lost herself to the pages…



Somewhere in there, there had to be a guide on what she was feeling, how to navigate the confusing twists and turns… An explanation for what was going on inside her head and her heart… And if not that… Then a way to entice Jacob to try again… She hadn’t been able to finish that night and he hadn’t attempted since and she wondered if she had done something wrong… And she was determined to at least try and let them have one night… Just one without interruptions or hesitation, where they were fully with each other, as open as they could be and truly embrace what they could feel with each other…

[Deleted]

...she had curled in so close to him.. her body was tiny.. small.. and ever so warm.. she felt soft beneath his fingers.. her skin was smooth and smelt incredible.. his senses were being attacked from all sides there.. and he just wanted to drown in it all.. his head tilted down a little.. his chin coming to rest atop her hair there as she nestled in.. he began to softly stroke her back.. along the delicate fabric of her bra.. just idle touches.. barely there.. just needing to feel his way.. to map her if that was such a thing.. before he felt her slowly drift off there.. he would give her this.. she wanted him back in the bed for a little while.. just a little.. they had a journey to prepare for.. but.. he couldn't pull away from this.. he too drifted off.. a cat like nap state..

her moan though pulled him from that slight slumber and he paused.. allowing her murmurs.. her gasps to filter through.. he felt her shifting.. the way she was wriggling and trembling in closer to him.. oh dear god.. his heart began to thud there in his chest.. the sounds she made.. her fingers.. her grip .. her hold upon him tightening.. and then those nails.. he hissed out a breath through gritted down teeth.. her moans got a little louder.. his toes curled against the bedding..there and her gasps and moans were met with a breathy groan of his own.. before she slipped her hand down between her thighs and he stiffened considerably.. in more way than one.. his head rocked back against the pillows there he exclaimed beneath his breath that he wondered if she knew what she was doing to him.. his poor heart.. his body ached.. only to hear her response and his cheeks couldn't have coloured any quicker.. he swallowed.. thankful when he noticed she was indeed still resting.. he tilted his head down to brush his lips to her forehead.. whispering softly against her skin-. I turned out liking you a lot more than I originally planned.. -he breathed.. his brows furrowing as he felt her slowly sag against him.. he blew out another quiet breath there.. trying to calm himself.. to settle his heart.. his head.. and his body..he was honest though.. he hadn't originally figured this would happen.. he had no idea that he would fall for her like he has.. and he still isn't sure what to do with it all.. he didn't even realise he had drifted back off with her in his arms until he felt her lips waking him..

drawing him awake once more.. he exhaled softly.. blinking his eyes open as he looked up to her through mildly heavy lids.. he nodded a little when she said she was going to grab a shower.. letting her know he would join her shortly.. to go on ahead.. he rolled over onto his side there.. wincing just a touch.. he'd taken a few hits.. it was going to hurt for a week or so he knew that much.. but at least from the neck up it wasn't all that noticeable.. he watched her though as she slid his shirt back on.. catching a proper glimpse of that orange number she wore.. the lace bra and panties.. how they hugged those curves.. accentuated what she already had.. he had to admit.. she was certainly easy on the eye.. she was stunning.. just beautiful.. it made his fingers twitch a little.. recalling the feeling of her skin.. before she slipped back out.. and he sunk back upon the pillows.. his hands rising to rub across his cheeks.. murmuring.. giving himself a bit of a pep talk.. to get a grip.. to try and relax lest he made a fool of himself..

before he grabbed a few items and he made his way to the bathroom.. knocking on the door first.. making sure she understood it was him there before he drew the lock across..the room smelt incredible.. that jasmine and coriander.. it was an interesting combination.. not too sweet.. quite mysterious.. -.. Ah!.. -he mentioned when she said she'd left his towel on the bench..-.. Thank you.. -he placed his items down there.. his comb and the like.. before he switched on the water.. the shower just across from her.. hooking his thumbs in those cotton shorts of his as he slid them down.. leaving him bare if not for the ink that caressed his body ..

he stepped beneath the stream of water there.. the heat just made him groan.. oh it felt so so very good.. he dunked his head under.. letting the pressure dislodge all the grime.. the blood.. the sweat and dust he'd managed to pick up in the previous evenings little fray.. he had no idea she was looking.. that she was watching him from her side.. it just so happened when she turned to put the cream in her hair that he'd glance over his own shoulder.. having been in much the same thought process as she was.. trying to hold back from looking but.. the desire outweighing.. winning as he caught a glimpse of her body slightly stretched out from behind.. her arms reaching to apply that thick cream to her hair.. and his body stilled.. much the same way his heart did.. he couldn't tear his eyes away.. even with the threat.. the worry that she could turn and look back to him at any moment.. he viewed the delicate curves that made up her bodies shape.. the softness of her back the way you could catch glimpses here and there of the ink that curled around her thighs.. her ass.. .. he swallowed.. managing to utter a -Wow -under his breath.. oh dear goddess.. her shape just left him wanting.. desiring to touch.. making his fingers curl in as he stopped.. it would have taken but a moment for him to cross that floor.. to slide his hands about her from behind.. to press his lips to her shoulder.. to touch.. to feel her frame pressed against his own.. he cleared his throat and forced himself to look back to the hard wood and tile..

dipping his head beneath the stream of water.. trying to cool off the lustful thoughts that were bubbling to the surface.. thoughts he had not had.. in a very long time.. if he were truly honest with himself.. he didn't even catch it this bad with Cora.. he rolled his shoulders.. thankful he had his back to her.. or there'd be no way to hide just how much the sight of her affected him..he decided to toss in a few questions.. asking if she was looking forward to the little trip away.. he was enchanted though by her response..it made him smile.. nodding his head.. -.. just do me one favour.. -he called over to her as he began to rinse the soap from his thick richly coloured locks-.. no creeping into the library after hours.. -he was being a little cheeky and he had a bit of a laugh-.. I promise you will have full access to the library and the teaching areas..
-he found her responses about wanting to explore quite refreshing really..-.. Im glad to hear it.. really that you're looking forward to the trip away.. I havent been to Narius for quite a while.. it's where i did a great deal of my early study..made quite a few friends there.. Im curious to see how they went.. how far they got. some of them had such great potential.. others maybe not quite so much.. -he laughed and shook his head.. raking his fingers back through his hair as he ran the soap block over his shoulders.. down his arms and chest.. -.. You should travel though.. whenever you have the chance.. there is So much to see.. so much to experience.. I consider myself fairly well travelled and yet I have barely seen anything at all.. -he paused a moment.. rinsing off the soapy bubbles-.. Ill have to take you to Shimmershine.. -he nodded-.. when we take our mid year break.. it's Anouks home.. utterly enchanting..the stuff of fairy tales..

-silence fell between them both.. they continued to wash.. to clean and relax tired aching muscles.. before he admitted something to her.. something that could be seen as a weakness to anyone else.. that he was nervous about the conference.. he'd talked in front of large groups before.. maybe it was because it was where he himself learnt.. he remembered being in that audience.. learning all of what he knew today.. he was going full circle.. it was daunting.. he listened to her response.. that he shouldn't be afraid.. that he should embrace it.. without hesitation.. to harness the emotion and just run with it.. he stood there a moment longer.. nodding his head a little.. -.. you're right. I need to be looking at this from a different perspective.. Thank you Rose.. I needed that.. -and he did.. more than she would ever really know.. he turned off the water there and wrapped that towel around his waist.. gathering up his small lot of belongings there.. a cheeky little remark thrown at her.. doing his best to dodge the wet hand towel she threw at him as he laughed.. before he walked back out.. drawing the door closed behind him.. he couldn't help the continued chuckle to himself as he settled back in his room.. brushing that towel through his hair once more before dropping it over the back of a chair.. he pulled on another pair of cotton shorts .. a dark pair of well fitted slacks.. closer to jeans.. his boots.. a short sleeved shirt that was buttoned up along with a grey coloured vest.. he drew a comb through his hair.. coming to stand before the mirror there.. he looked down into the reflection.. turning his head a little.. the swelling had gone down.. considerably.. there was really only a bare shadow of a bruise remaining.. and maybe a bit of grazing.. whatever she had used.. certainly did the job.. for the most part anyway..

he pulled out a bag.. drawing his dress suit from the cupboard.. folding it over neatly.. his tie.. shirts and jackets.. a small bottle of cologne.. combs.. a second bag would take the books he required.. notepads.. pencils and pens.. along with the tiny wooden box with willowbark.. he then noticed the box there.. the pouch.. his brows furrowed.. it appeared out of place.. he knew all there was to know about what was in his room.. his heart stuttered when he saw the gift though.. the fob.. turning it over in his hand.. feeling its weight beneath his fingers.. he chewed on his lip a little.. he was stunned into silence really.. it was such a heartfelt gift.. he summoned up the small gift for her.. it was very little in comparison to what she had got for him.. but it was something at least in the short term.. that he hoped would send a little message.. gaining access to her room was certainly a task.. he'd picked up on the traps early on.. having an ear and an eye for it.. he knew he had to be quick though as she'd be out of that bathroom soon he was sure of it..

placing the little bouquet near her books before he plucked up his bags and went down stairs to catch up with everyone else ..he didn't even look toward Rincavornon.. in fact Faelon made sure the pair of them remained apart.. making sure Rincavornon's carriage was at the back.. and he would be travelling alone.. Jacob would be upfront with him and the majority of the girls would be in the middle.. bags were being on.. a couple of Faelons girls were checking the house out.. making sure everything was closed up.. fires and lanterns were off and out.. he mentioned keeping Kit an Rose with the pair of them up the front.. the four of them wouldn't make the carriage too full or uncomfortable.. Kit appeared thankful and settled into the back of the ride there.. he was standing ont he back taking a few more bags there.. before he would hear Ellen and Luna gasping.. there was idle chatter amongst a few others there.. he turned to look.. to find out what was going on.. only to spot her there in the doorway.. moving to exit.. his mouth dropped open a little.. Oh wow.... there were no words.. he blinked a little..watching as she went to step into Rincavornon's carriage.. he went to call upon her and found there was no voice there.. he cleared his throat.. thankful when Kit called her to come across to them..

he looked down to her when she reached to hand him the bag.. he offered her an admiring smile .. his fingers brushing across hers when he gathered her things.. right before she lost her balance and his eyes widened.. only breathing when he saw Faelon catch her.. steadying her before helping her up into the carriage.. laughing a little when he heard the comment about the shoes..-.. Anouk.. has to be.. -he knew that pixie had a thing for heels making womens legs look incredible.. and they did.. there was no doubt.. but he didn't want to see her with a broken ankle..

he secured the load there.. jumping down .. making sure everything else was settled and ready before he got in and sat beside Faelon there across from the other two.. knocking the back of the carriage.. the doors were closed and they were on their way.. moving away from the manor.. he watched curiously when she handed Kit some of the notebooks.. some of the older journals.. giving her an appreciative nod.. -.. Im sure.. between us.. -he motioned toward Faelon and himself-.. we will be able to help you Kit.. keep you up to speed.. until we can figure out where you will be best suited to go.. -he paused.. taking a breath there.. Faelon nodded before he turned back to his medical journal-.. I dont think you should go back to Rincavornon.. -he held his hands up-.. it's not my decision to make of course.. you are more than welcome to do as you please.. but.. if you really want to do this.. if you want to succeed.. the foundations.. need to be set properly.. and they just wont with him.. I'm sorry.. you need stability.. Faelons team is full.. unless he has someone drop out.. which im guessing probably not at this stage.. -Faelon looked up giving a little shake of his head-..(F) no.. not right at this stage.. I am more than willing to help out.. yes of course.. where I am able.. -he turned to look at Kit there..-.. I'm not sure I can take on another student fulltime.. but if Faelon and I worked together we could get you up to speed.. and then we will see where we go from there.. how does that sound?.. -he settled back.. his knee bent ..semi relaxed as his hands rested upon his lap.. Kit nodded.. looking back to Rose there.. appearing a little perplexed.. maybe a little confused-.(K). I dont want to go back to Rincavornon no.. -she shook her head.. nibbling her lower lip-.. I would graciously accept any help I can .. it is something I am interested in.. I want to go further.. maybe.. -she looked to Rose there-.. we could talk.. about it?.. -she was hoping Rose could help her make a decision about what to do.. he nodded.. allowing the girls to talk amongst themselves as he pulled out his notebook..

resting it upon his knee there as he plucked out a charcoal pencil.. and he began to silently sketch.. every now and then he would answer one of Kits questions.. never using a tone that would make her feel unintelligent.. or out of place.. he was understanding.. always.. Faelon was much the same.. though his answers came out more like auto pilot.. he barely even looked up from his book when he did so.. the four of them continued on their journey.. the carriage only hitching every so often as it hit some uneven ground.. but for the most part the driver stuck to the well worn roads and it was incredibly smooth.. the morning turned into the early afternoon.. the sunshine floated through the opened blinds.. keeping the air warm.. keeping them comfortable.. every so often he would look up to her.. watching as she helped Kit out.. pointing out notes in the text.. explaining things in terms the girl would understand.. he could see a future in teaching with Rose.. that he was certain of.. she had patience.. it was a rare trait..

he'd offer her a smile if she caught him looking at her.. before he would turn back to his notepad there.. drawing it closed though when she showed just how organised she had been.. the food parcels all prepared and ready for them..-.. Wow.. -he nodded - This is impressive.. -even Faelon was surprised.. nodding his head in agreeance..they all took the small parcels and tucked into the lunchtime snacks.. bits of cheese and buttered bread.. jerky and fruit.. it was good.. incredibly good and perfectly timed.. especially considering most never had the chance to eat that morning.. the carriage continued.. for another hour.. maybe two... before a whistle would sound and the ride would come to a slow stop there.. he placed his notepad down there.. moving to step out.. drawing the door closed behind him.. he'd have a short conversation with the head driver before returning to the carriage.. poking his head inside-..

bit of a rest stop.. -he nodded-.. may as well hop out stretch your legs a little.. take the chance to soak in a bit of this sunshine.. -he backed away then.. moving to the other carriages.. to let them all know.. though he did little more than to knock on Rincavornon's and call out rest stop.. before he would return to the front there.. they had stopped on a wide open area.. though it was surrounded by thick forest and bushland.. there was a cliff face to the left .. trees and a winding lake as far as the eye could see.. so many different colours.. the grass beneath their toes was thick and lush.. he stretched his arms up.. rolling his shoulders back as he moved to take a bit of a walk..

looking back over his shoulder.. hoping to catch her eyes.. motioning for her to follow.. if she desired it.. the lead driver called out 20.. they had.. twenty or so minutes to stretch.. to wander.. before they would be off on their way again.. he stepped down a level.. the trees had trunks thicker than most he had seen.. old trees that would have been there for many years.. he slipped behind one of them which would have taken him completely out of view of everyone else.. he'd wait until he caught a glimpse of her before he would grasp her wrist and he'd pull her across to stand in front of him.. her back to him.. his arms slid around her.. settling.. resting there about her stomach.. pulling her in closer.. his chin to her shoulder-.. I need your advice.. -he whispered-.. someone left a gift in my room.. he reached back into his pocket there as he pulled out that fob..drawing it back to the front there.. holding it out.. popping it open.. it glittered in the sunlight that managed to peak through the trees..-.. and it's stunning.. it's perfect..-his fingers curled over it.. closing it once more before it found its way back into his pocket.. his arm snaking back around her once more-.. something I'll always treasure.. I have a little problem though.. I dont know how to thank this young woman.. for being as precious as she is.. do you have any suggestions?..-the breeze was soft and cool as it sent coloured leaves dancing around their feet.. birds softly chiming in the distance.. the sounds of the horses ..the gentle chatter of the others they were travelling with.. but.. really.. they were in their own little bubble there.. even if it was only for.. twenty minutes-

[BadInfluence]

She wondered if he was blind to himself in a way… Unaware of his allure, the way he almost seemed to have a light of his own, a beacon that people naturally wanted to come to… Surely it wasn’t just her that felt this way for him, she knew that much, women flocked to him naturally… Look at the nurses at the hospital, even Luna and Ellen had gone to him like bee’s to honey before he shifted their burden to another, and those two wouldn’t settle for less than a tasty tidbit… Just settled there in his strong arms made her feel like the world couldn’t come in, that it had to wait for him to say it could encroach, and right now? She was his, he was hers, and for these precious… Beautiful… So perfect moments it was theirs… She let herself drift on the scent of his skin, the feel of his warmth beneath her fingers as she held him, the regular rhythm of his heart beat that sounded just like a melody to her… He made her feel things, amazing and wonderful things, sweet and bittersweet… Made her want, made her dream, made her imagine a tomorrow that was different from her yesterday. He was her want… Like a little seed she had been given and was suddenly growing inside her, soaking up all her untouched dreams and desires like water and nutrients, and everywhere she turned was him… Little bits and pieces of him, like meadow grass and wildflowers, these bright pops of color where they was just monotone…



When she fell asleep in his arms it was incredibly peaceful, restorative and more than a little heavenly, and she had slipped down a sweet path to an odd mix of jumbled dream memories before it slipped into something new… Lush and rich… Demanding… Dark and sweet like black velvet blankets… Normally she didn’t dream, those belonged to humans but every now and then she had one, and this being one of those moments… Recalling him in this same bed, passion between them going up like solar flares, burning them both but leaving them whole… It had sparked as sudden as a forest fire and she had clung to him through the flames that night, took everything he offered and let him sear her soul and torch her innocence, leaving her intact but never the same… Oh god she could never be the same… It was there in her dream the way he had tasted under her tongue and how hungry she had been for him, the taste of his salty sweet mix on her tongue like a rare tea, ambrosia that only the worthy ever sampled… She had wanted so much more but her virginal mind couldn’t quite fill in the gaps, and as such her brain shifted the dream to when he had his hand between her thighs, when she was burning alive in his arms and quaking… Was it any wonder she was moaning and sighing against him? That her heart was racing and her breathing stucco and scattered? She couldn’t help her hand against his skin, the soft rake of her nails as she began to touch herself, sweet little sobs of pleasure as she found herself shooting up higher and faster than ever before… Exploding there and clinging to him, her breath a soft fan against his chest, hearing his whispered words… Her response was auto-pilot, her mind open but her body, oh her body was thoroughly sated… Warm and soft in his arms, utterly relaxed and virtually catatonic, trembling in the little after quakes… Surely he knew she wanted him too? Hadn’t she said as much? She wasn’t asking for anything but she was offering herself to him wholly, she wouldn’t take what he wouldn’t offer but she would give anything he asked for, even her soul if that was what he wanted… This was so far from a one sided crush… The kiss to her forehead earned a soft sweet murmur from her as she curled in just a little closer, her mind registering his words but they wouldn’t stick, she wouldn’t be able to recall them on waking… They were a secret just for her mind to keep, to perhaps reveal in a moment of darkness or sadness, a glimmer in the cold night… She would have gladly taken mercy on him if she was awake, help ease his bodies pains and needs, fulfilling her own dream at the same time… Instead though she slept on, safe and warm in his arms, and the world drifted on by them…



When she woke up before him she did her best to slip away without waking him, opening blinds and curtains, letting the natural light filter in and the cooler air stir the scent of herbs from the room. She had gone to his side and kissed him awake softly, a smile on her lips as he looked up at her, knowing he had enjoyed the nap as much as she did. He might just be a little more lagged because of his head injury, but still she knew he had gotten some very good sleep, she could see it there in his eyes… She told him she was off to shower and that he could join her, it was time efficient and meant they could watch each other’s back, and given the fact the house was sort of like a gladiatorial colosseum it was a good plan. She smile when he said he would be along and she stepped away, unaware he was enjoying the view of that lovely next to nothing orange number and how it looked against her soft sun kissed skin, slipping into his shirt that she wore like a night gown… And deep down a part of her would probably not return it unless he asked for it, it was her favorite thing in the world to wear and she was not about to give that up lightly, not for as long as she could hold onto it. She slipped into her room to finish the last little touch of packing and the preparations, gathering up her shower things and then booby trapping the door because really, with a spare key floating around like she was going to just let anyone get in there. The showers were easy enough, she set her basket on the side there and left Jacob his own towel there on the bench, starting to wash up when he had come in. She had to tease him a little at his words, just something to make him smile before she heard him lock the doors behind him, the two of them setting about to getting clean. He had blood and dirt and everything else in his hair, and she knew he needed it more than a little bit, not to mention it would probably do wonders for that knot on the back of his head… Of course that was the last thing on her mind when she rinsed her hair to watch him, she was torn between shame and just a downright basic need to see him, and when she did? Oh God did it ever made her weak… The words Jesus Christ spilling from her lips softly as she admired the muscular lines of his back, the way his waist was smaller than hers, leaner but stronger… The tapered way his back melded into his long muscular legs and oh god his ass… A mans ass was quite different from a womans and surely his was different from anyone else’s, no way that perfection could exist anywhere else but with him, no way in hell she would ever see such a shape anywhere else… She wanted to touch, like him all she could think about in those moments was how desperately she wanted to go to him, to let her hands explore… He made her want to cry in a way, the more she saw him the more she knew he was all she wanted and she was so terrified of that, of wanting… Just the simple desire to have him as her own… To know she had access to him, to touch him when she wished, to hear him plea with her again to pleasure him… Her heart was racing and her head felt like it was going to float off, her body reacting in a way to betray her as her nipples hardened up into little berries despite how warm it was in the room, having to force herself to turn away before she was caught… Sneaking little glances through the sides… Covert… Quiet… Subtle… She couldn’t get enough of him… Would he ever let her trace the tattoo’s of his arms and back? Would she hear the stories in his skin? Or was she going to stand here… On the other side of that glass… Her heart aching and yearning… She began to coat her hair in the soft leave in treatment, unaware he was stealing glances of her as well, and if he was careful… Watched for a few more moments… The tattoo was shifting… Flowers blooming… And for the first time in her life… Little hints of color… Splashes of water color red along the edges of the flowers… Hints of gold centers… Green leaves… All very soft but unmistakable, like the loving panting of an artist on paper, the gentle touches of a pigmented brush…



He had asked her about the trip, how she felt about it, and she was entirely honest. There was an adventure there, just waiting to be had, to be explored. She couldn’t travel before, something held here there for one, and two… Just funds… The human world ran on gold circles and silver disks, and she had precious little of either, far from enough to risk her savings to go exploring. No she stayed close to home, kept to the familiar and the routine, but now? Now she had a paying internship, a chance to make something amazing for her future, to go and see how amazing this all was… This wide world they lived in… She wanted to see this big city, it’s library and buildings, the people and how they lived in a different part of the world… She was an observer, she loved to watch people, to see how they changed… Shifted… Grew… She paused when he asked her to do him a favor. “Of course… What is it?” She asked before he got so cheeky there and she couldn’t help the sudden laugh that spilled from her lips, hands pressed to her cheeks over the blush that had formed there, resting against the wall behind the bench she sat on while she tended the smaller feminine niceties. “Shame on you!” She said with a bright bubbly laugh, the kind that danced on the steam like golden notes of light, brightening up the space. “I can’t make such a promise! If they are silly enough to leave a window open I can sneak into, I will find it, and I will explore their library like a hidden tomb. Besides, why go during regular hours, I’d have to share books with someone. I’d much rather be greedy… So… Instead I can promise not to get caught? Does that help?” She said teasing before she shook her head and finished up her nails, just letting the cream settle into her hair and on her skin. It was so wonderful to talk to him, they were so in tune in so many ways, they just knew how to talk… Some people have that awkward start and stop to their words, that awkward stilted silence as they learn how to talk with each other, but with them? It was like they had known each other for years, childhood friends who could enjoy their times together, like they were catching up rather than just learning each other. It was magic, that sort of connection, and she reveled in it… Shared everything with him. She was happy to share her wants and questions, the things she wanted to do and to know, to see and explore. “Oh really?!” She said excitedly, sitting forward on the bench, listening to how he said he had friends there. Wondering how they were doing, if they had succeeded or dropped off, changed paths or gave up entirely. It was very curious to pick his mind about things now, wondering about the city itself, but she didn’t ask much… Why? Because it was her adventure! “Do they have dances there? Just, not formal ones but well… I don’t know how to explain it. We learned how to dance at the orphanage, it was considered a lady’s need for her education, a way for one of us to catch a husband if we could. I haven’t danced in years, not since I was fifteen and it was at the Christmas party, I kind of miss it.” She hadn’t thought about dancing for years, but being around him, he brought it out of her… Made her want to dance, to find herself on the floor, surrounded by soft lights and music… It wouldn’t matter who her partner was, she just wanted to dance, but even so… A part of her mind imagined it being him… Could he dance? He must have? Ah but even if he could, did he like it? Some men hated dancing after all and he could very well be one of those. It was an interesting question and a wonderfully soft little day dream, one she held onto and treasures for several long moments… One she would likely roll over in her head repeatedly in the months to follow her life. “I’m sure your friends will be an adventure for you, no matter how they went after your paths divided, they still lived a life and one that is surely chock full of stories and laughter.” After all, that was one of the best things wasn’t it, catching up with friends? To see their life expand under the time spent apart, how different their paths went, how beautiful the division had changed them. It was amazing surely… “I want to travel and now I can I think, at least, after I finish up my studies… Before I couldn’t something held me here, but now that it’s all shifted and changed, and I can explore the world… Maybe we can go together, throw a dart at the globe and make it’s landing place out destination, plan for it around a year and go immerse ourselves into the new place… We can share the adventure together…” She said with a smile as she sat forward a little, unshy around him and only him, knowing well he knew every inch of her so there was no hiding… She wondered if he would like that, the two of them together, packing up to go explore the world… She knew she would love it, it would be some of the best moments of her life she was sure, but just because she liked it? Didn’t mean he would…



The offer to take her to Shimmershine had her ears twitching and her head tilting to the side but her smile grew. “It has to be, look at Anouk, I swear I never once in my life ever thought I would meet someone like her. Where ever she comes from has to be magic, just like she is, otherwise it just wouldn’t be right. I’ll have to find something really special for her though when we visit, that I think will be my years adventure until we see her, to find a gift that’s as unique as she is.” She said with a nod of her head before she began to rinse off, the silence slowly falling between them as they finished off, paying special attention to her own skin so that she didn’t miss any spots. She wanted to be at her best, she was trying something new today, taking a step on a different path. Why go it half-way? It was while she rinsed he confessed his fears, his concerns, and she replied honestly to him. Why tell him not to be afraid? It was a natural emotion and a healthy one too, it would do well to fuel his desire to succeed and keep him from getting to confident and cocksure. Instead of letting the fear be a negative thing, that he should embrace it instead, and use it to help fuel his desire to embrace it all as a whole. There was no shame in it after all, even hero’s get scared, and it’s that very emotion that makes them true… You can’t save someone without a little fear, because if you aren’t afraid, you aren’t really living. She paused when she saw him nodding and just smiled a bit. “You didn’t need anything… You already knew that inside yourself, you just didn’t see it yet, that’s all. You’re wonderful Jacob, you really are, and you’re so much more than you see… Just watch… You’ll get up there and light a fire in so many people the room will just glow, you’ll inspire new souls and rekindle old ones, and in that moment? You’ll see in yourself what I have seen in you from the moment I met you.” She said softly, honestly, speaking from the heart. She watched him finish up and get into that towel, more than a little sad that her glorious view was now interrupted, but in a way it might be good.. She wasn’t sure how much more of that lusciousness she could take without caving in and getting up to touch him. He teased her there at the end to behave herself and you bet she chucked that wet hand cloth at him, catching his laugh as she blew raspberries at him, the two of them having fun before he left. She finished up a few minutes later admittedly, enjoying the last bit of her soak and making sure she paid special attention to her hair, giving him ample time to do what he wanted in her room without her knowing. When she was done and got up to leave, she took a few moments at her own door to undo the traps she had left, slipping in only to find his cologne scenting the room, making her dip and sag a little against her door… She just smiled there, something soft and fragile, a secret thing that he brought out in her… She savored the scent a little while longer before she got about setting her room up, the blinds and windows, the water for her little sproutling… Packing up the last of her clothes and the lunch packs she had managed to make yesterday afternoon while Jacob had been sunning… She was packing up the last book she wanted to bring with her when she saw it, the little bunch of forget me nots that had her melting into her bed, her heart swelling fit to pop in her chest… How could she ever forget him? But the flowers… Oh they were so perfect… She’d never been given flowers before, the meaning behind them wasn’t lost on her, she knew… She knew well… She took one little spray of them and put them in her hair, the rest she sealed up in a vase so they would never die, locked permanently in the state they were in at that moment… She never, ever wanted to lose them, they were so precious to her… More than she could dare say… These… These would stay with her forever…



She finished up and made her way downstairs, hearing the odd gasps and seeing the strange expressions, but she didn’t spare the time for it honestly. She was too busy, her brain running over everything she had seen and done, what she wanted to do and had planned for… Getting out of the house was easy… The grounds proved just a little more tricky, causing her to focus on her steps and not the way Jacob’s jaw had dropped, the way the whole group seemed to chatter about her softly… For her? It was step… Step… Step… No weight on the heels.. Tip toe… Tip toe… She went to the last carriage, figuring it was the one to get into, opening the door only to see it’s sole resident. Served him right the jerkbag… She didn’t spare him a glance or a word before she closed the door, hearing Kit call over to her and she smiled, waving and making her way over. Once she arrived it was then she caught Jacobs looks and oh she blushed, her heart racing loud enough for his ears to pick up, a happy sort of speeding that was rather enchanting really… She gently curled her fingers over his as he took her bags and she would move to step up into the carriage before her heel caught in the step and she ended up tumbling back, laughing softly when Dr. Faelon caught her, blushing furiously and thanking him for saving her. She honestly was still learning and she nodded her head at Jacob’s words. “She swore next to ballerina flats they were the only shoes a woman should own. Needless to say I came home with quite a few pairs… She just never warned me they were pretty but dangerous death traps… Like the morning dew plant… Thank you again, Dr. Faelon, you certainly saved me.” She said warmly before she took her seat inside, slipping her shoe back on before settling in comfortably next to Kit, reaching into her bag to hand her the books and such she had brought for her. While she did that she was thrilled to hear when Jacob and Dr. Faelon both offered to help, and while it was a little hard for Kit, having found out the game a little later than ideal at least it was an option. If anything Kit was going to really get a solid step up, nodding her head at their words and giving Kit’s hand a gentle squeeze, warm and reassuring. “Of course Kit… Right now I think you might be pinged back and forth a little, but I will try to keep you with me as much as I can, since I work under both doctors when needed it’s a good chance for you to learn if it’s something you want. Dr. Faelon is amazing, he’s very skilled and the things he can do in the room are amazing, it’s like watching an artist paint the way he works. It’s not easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding, and he can teach you so much. Then of course Dr. Anakin has a lot of strengths too, he’s flexible and very well learned so he can help you sort your path out step by step, work with you on your weaknesses and helping to boost your strengths. He also has an amazing knack for knowing just what sort of books you need when you need it, and it’s really the biggest help, I know it’s done wonders for me.” She said with a happy smile, and the two of them would go back to the books, and through most of the trip they worked together in easy conversation… Low so they wouldn’t interrupt anyone, and she found Kit easy to work with, but maybe that was because she was used to it? She had helped at the orphanage for years after all, for her this was just another teaching experience, and one she took to very well. Kit was a good student too, she really was, and while she knew it would be a struggle? Kit kept determined, she asked questions when she needed to, and did her best to learn. They had done this for some time before Kit decided to do a little solo reading and she turned to her own book, the one Jacob had given her that was not medically related… She was curious, she wanted, needed to find the notes… A key… Something in those pages to help her figure it out…



She had gotten a few pages in before she felt a bit peckish and put the book down before reaching into her bag and pulled out the little packs for them, she had figured some time along the ride they might get hungry, and she had packed for anyone they might be going with. She blushed at the compliment and ducked her head a bit with a smile. “We used to do day trips with the little ones at the orphanage so I sort of got into the habit of always packing ahead just in case… Especially food things.” She said with a soft laugh before she too set into her lunch, picking at the fruit and cheese, the jerky and bread… It really was delicious and she enjoyed it immensely, sharing with Kit and trading for this or that food thing, helping her out with a few other little things before she got back into her book, a look of deep concentration and thought on her features as she got to a particular chapter. Now this… This was what she was looking for, and while she read she referenced and cross referenced with her own emotions, the things she felt but couldn’t name… It wasn’t infatuation, they explained that one well and it was too shallow for what she felt, too fickle… Enamored was very good though, that one stuck with her a bit, and it had more than a few of the same symptoms as she had around him… But the next one… Love… That one was the scariest of all… Not because it was love… But because of how much she felt around him was the same as listed there… Her heart beat changing… The way she wanted to do things for him even without getting anything back… The need to look after him, to protect him, care for him… The desire to simply be around him in any context, no matter how or where, just to be around him… Shouldn’t love take a long time?... Wasn’t it supposed to build up? To take days, months, even years to appear? It didn’t exactly give a time table in there, it simply stated that love wasn’t a bad thing at all, and that it can be felt more than once in a lifetime… Many people fall in love multiple times over their life before they found their main love, the one that loves more than all others before it, and that was the one they married… She was frowning just a touch as she nibbled on her thumb, bouncing between Enamor and Love, the way she felt both… Was one morphing into the other?... And if so… Could she stop it? Did she want to? She was afraid for the first time… Afraid of loving him because love… Jesus that was THE thing… The greatest of the greats… And nothing in this world could kill you faster or more painfully than a broken love… Hadn’t she seen it first hand? How much pain it causes? She was deep in thought before they came to a stop and the offer for a rest stop… Oh yes… She needed it! She needed something greatly, a chance to pace or even run, something to give her body an outlet so her brain could function… She set her book down into her bag and slid her shoes off, she wasn’t about to have another trip up after all, and stepped down… Only to gasp softly as she saw the place they had stopped, oh it was beyond beautiful it really was, and she let herself wander the moment her feet hit the ground… Feeling the age of the place, the harmony of nature, how old the trees were… Their songs whispered in the wind… She wriggled her toes into the earth, breathing a heavenly sigh as she felt herself instantly grounded, letting her emotions feed into the trees… Nourishing them as she took the peace from them… A fair and peaceful exchange… Energy for energy… She was walking away from the group when she caught him, her ears flicking to the sides as she tilted her head, wondering what he was all about… She followed behind him after a few moments, not wanting to send up any flags and let herself wander about, slowly following him… When she stepped down she began to look for him, wondering where he had disappeared off to, gently calling his name… She was about to reach into the tree roots to feel for him when he reached out and took her wrist, her heart stopped and then suddenly slamming against her ribs, her breath stolen as she was pulled against his chest… “Oh- She breathed as she was held there secure in his arms…



There was the soft sound of the world around them… Then the rapid beating of her heart… The flush in her cheeks… The fact she was obviously aroused in how easily two twin cupid arrows appeared under her dress… She tried to settle her heart when he brought out the music box and her heart sang, she turned her head to look up at him, a bright smile on her lips. She was so glad he had found it, even more so that he liked it, carried it on him. She wanted him to be able to go every day knowing he had a melody in his pocket when ever he needed it. She sighed softly as she melted against him, her head resting on his shoulder, the delicate feminine scent of her twining about his senses, as real and rich as the woods… One hand reached down to lay across his around her waist and over her stomach, the other reached up to caress his cheek, careful of his hurts and cuts… He wanted to give her something in return… Her lips curled into a warm smile as she turned in his arms then, her own coming to rest over his heart, on her toes so she could reach up to him… Pressing her lips softly against his in a bone melting kiss, the soft flick of her tongue over his lips, a gentle caress in a meeting of skin that left her breathless… “The flowers were more than enough… But if you need to do more… Then there is something you could do for her…” She said, sliding her hands up to gently cradle his face, looking up into those beautiful blue and green eyes… Fingers gently caressing his skin.. “Let yourself be happy…” It was a whisper… A gentle plea… All she wanted? Was for him to be happy… To let go of the past, to stop carrying that anchor around with him, to let himself finally float up into the sun… To leave the crushing darkness behind where it belonged, along with his monsters and nightmares… “When I look at you I can see it… There inside you… A little seed trying so hard to grow, to escape the winter that’s wrapped around it, it’s begging for spring… Deep down my Jacob… You hold onto your past like a rock, expecting it to somehow be useful, when all it’s doing is hurting you… Weighing you down… It’s a weight… It’s the winter of your heart…” She knew she was defiantly pushing… She was saying more than a friend should, but she knew what she saw, and understood a little more of what she felt… She knew he was hurting, he had told her his pain in his sleep, and even when they talked… She could see it… This ghost of a terrible wife that haunted his eyes like a dark shadow, flickering in to dim what should have been bright, beautiful moments… She hated Cora… She had never hated anyone before but she did now, she hated Cora for what she had done to him, to break someone who’s only sin… His one crime… Was to love her… “I’m not asking it for me… I could be selfish… I could be greedy and ask you to become my lover… I’ve read enough into the book to know what it means, what I am asking for, what it could become for both of us… A chance to chase away the loneliness… A way to ease the stress of a day in this sort of work… Believe me I want it so badly… I’ve hardly wanted anything in my life…” She slid her fingers down, slowly coming to rest on his shoulders, the war there in her eyes… The possible heart break, the hope, and the desire for him… “But more than that… I want to see you happy… Even if it’s not with me, even if it’s with someone else, just… To see you happy… To know you’re finally giving yourself the chance to breathe… To see that it’s ok… I want that more than anything else in the world… It doesn’t have to be today… Tomorrow… Next month… But… Just try… Just know that… It’s ok to have a past… But to realize if you keep living in it… You’ll never be able to enjoy today…” It was a lot… So much… But he had asked… And she had honestly answered… She meant it when she said she wanted him as a lover… She knew it would mean giving her virginity up and even if he didn’t feel anything for her outside of those butterflies, she knew he felt something, just like she did… She wanted him in her bed, she wanted to be in his, she wanted that moment… That sundering of her body as she became his in those moments… But more than she wanted him as her lover, more than she wanted the pleasure of his touch, she wanted him to give himself a chance… The opening to let himself be happy and to live… Not just exist but really, and truly, live…



Still, for all that though she couldn’t resist the lure of him, the sirens call of his cologne or being so near to him… She ended up struggling past a moan before she gave in and began to touch him… They had fifteen minutes… She could do it in ten… Right?... She began to kiss him, hot and sweet, the very obvious need there in the taste of her kiss… She wanted him… Oh god she did, so damn badly it hurt, and all she could think about was finishing what they started… Her fingers, running all over his skin, her tongue teasing along his lips until he kissed her back… Stroking her tongue along his as she clung to him, pressing her breasts against his chest before she tugged at the bow around her neck, releasing it so the top of her dress slipped open… Taking his hand to guide it to her breasts where she would cry out sweetly against his lips… A decadent little moan as she threw herself into the moment… She slid her hand up to tangle into his hair, the other slid lower to his pants, to cup and palm him there with her fingers… Eagerly finding his thick bulge with a thick luscious mewl of pleasure, curling her fingers around as much of it as she could before she began to stroke him over, hungry and wanting… She broke off that kiss some minutes later, sliding down his body in a trail of kisses, dropping to her knees in the soft mat of moss. “I’ve been thinking about this ever since…” She breathed as she worked his fly down and slid him out, careful not to mess his pants up, to leave him as neat as she could… But she wasn’t about to stop, she slid him out and in the daylight her eyes widened, he was genuinely huge… It made her lick her lips hungrily as she looked up at him, lust and desire there in her honey and green colored eyes, moving forward to lick at the head of his cock… Wanting to see him reactions, here in the sun and the sky, the forest and all the world around them… She took her hands and began to stroke him off again, remembering how much he had liked it the last time, and this time… This time she knew a bit more of what she was about… Licking at the head of his cock to hungrily lap up the precum before she took him between her lips with a throaty moan, slowly working her way down around his amazingly lush girth, her body hot… Tight… God she wanted him so damned badly! She watched him for as long as she could but she ended up giving over to the sensations of him between her lips, her hands working him over with a skill no virgin should honestly know, but she listened… She learned… She followed what his body told her and she learned the stroke that made his knees buckle… Her pert lush little tits bouncing as she moved down, slowly swallowing him, pushing past her gag reflex… Forcing herself to relax as she took him all the way to the back of her throat, tears of pleasure forming at the corner of her eyes as she struggled with the most delicious battle of her life, taking him to the hilt before backing off… Down again, gagging softly at the end so his cock got the most delicious squeezing at the back of her throat, and she would do this over… And over… And over again… Palming his balls through his slacks and moving up, stroking up and down his shaft and back down, everything he could have ever wanted… Needed… She gave him everything as she ended up working herself into a sort of heat, her cheeks flushed and the smell of her arousal strong… Sucking his cock was pleasing her too, to the point that as he got closer to his orgasm so did she, the rocking she performed only stimulating her more… “Cum… I want to taste you…” She pleaded beautifully before she dove back into his cock and she would give him all she had, all she could, eager to bring him to that point… And if he did? He wouldn’t be alone… The moment his hot sticky cum hit the back of her throat her eyes would spring open and she’d find herself climaxing, clinging to him as she moaned around his cock, sending pleasurable vibrations all the way down into his balls. She took ever drop he had, rolling back and forth on his cock to drag it out, to make the pleasure last as long as she could… Savoring the taste of him on her tongue as she explored it… Savored it… Learned every note of it and found herself thoroughly addicted like an opium user… She stayed there on her knees for some more minutes, deliciously dazed before she set him back as she had found him, careful not to have left so much as a drop on him… AS perfect as he was when they got out of the carriage… She got up slowly, her knees weak, her arms around his waist… Holding him… Trembling a little at the pleasure that still racked her…

[Deleted]

..the four of them had settled down into the carriages.. he on the side with Dr Faelon and her with Kit just across from him.. the group of them.. three rides in total were off to the city.. it would take the better part of a day to get to their destination.. though in truth there was no real rush.. at least not yet.. his conference was not immediate.. it was a good day after their arrival.. he was just making sure they would be there with plenty of time to spare.. a lot of time to prepare and then of course just a touch of downtime.. something he felt they all required.. it had been a bumpy few days.. the carriages started with a bit of a jerk and they were off.. he glanced toward her every so often.. catching her eyes when she looked back up to him.. though he was perhaps a little more covert about it.. his being unsure was still there and probably would be for some time yet before any real decisions were made.. but he couldn't help the want.. the need to ..well..look at her..

he spoke with Kit for a little while .. giving the young woman a few options she could play with if she so desired.. Faelon was in agreement that he would help where he could.. the only problem was.. that neither of them really had the space to take on another student at this early stage.. not full time anyway.. Faelons crew was stacked .. and unless one dropped out which was highly unlikely his books were full.. Jacobs.. well he had his work and his home life.. both of which were quite full also.. whilst he probably could take Kit if he really looked into it.. he didn't feel it would work out properly.. he didn't think he'd be able to give Kit the attention she deserved from a tutor.. especially considering he had such a high position back in Arvandor and sometimes would have to just drop everything and dissappear for a day or two..

he was thankful when Rose and Kit settled in to talk.. to mull it over.. details would have to be penned in.. but he would leave it up to them both.. Faelon returned to his medical journals.. Kit and Rose went over their own.. he however sunk back against his seat on the carriage there.. a notepad upon his knee as he began to sketch something.. just quietly.. allowing the soft silence of the travel envelope the four.. such only broken by quiet questions from Kit about the literature she was currently reading.. Faelon pipped in every now and then to answer though he rarely looked up from his text.. Jacob continued to watch her though.. how she took the lead.. how she was pointing out bits of text ..and explaining things in a way that seemed to just work with Kit.. a way that she knew the woman would understand.. she had patience.. it was a trait that not many her age had.. not many at all really.. and it made him think that down the track she'd probably make an incredibly good teacher.. the thought made him smile..

before she went and surprised them all with those little food parcels..everyone was impressed indeed.. glad for her preparation.. for most of them had missed breakfast and hadn't even thought to pack anything more than their clothing.. he tucked into a few small pieces of the buttered bread and fruit there.. -.. Very well done Rose.. -he nodded his head with a smile-.. shows a lot of initiative.. -he turned his gaze back to his notebook there as he idly supped on the bits and pieces from the packages.. before the carriage came to a slow still.. he went to hop out.. this was his journey afterall.. he'd organised the rides.. the drivers an the like.. drawing the door closed behind him as he spoke with the lead for just a few moments.. returning soon after as he let everyone know it was a bit of a rest break.. possibly the horses needed a bit of a drink.. or even just the riders needed a stretch.. either way the weather was incredibly good.. he wasn't about to argue .. he alerted the other carriages and moved back to help the women down from the top step should they require an anchor hand.. he had a little bit of a wander there.. his hands sliding down into his pockets.. turning then as he began to walk backwards for a few idle steps.. hoping to catch her attention without gaining it from anyone else..

most of the groups were settling in together.. Faelon and his girls were discussing texts they had all been given to study on the trip.. Rincavornon was more or less licking his wounds as he sunk down in the grass nearer his carriage.. Luna and Ellen standing near by though not daring to approach.. Jacob glanced toward her.. motioning with his head for her to follow.. figuring she knew to keep it.. casual.. and unnoticed.. before he dropped down a slight level and slipped behind one of the larger trees.. he waited.. sharpened ears picking up on her footfalls before he reached out suddenly.. grasping her wrist before he spun her about to press her back to him..his arms sliding around her from behind.. palms coming to rest against the soft feminine dip of her stomach.. he whispered as his chin came to rest on her shoulder.. of his little problem.. that some little squirell had left him a gift in his room.. and how much he absolutly adored it..and he did.. the music fob was just stunning.. like nothing he had seen before.. but he wanted to be able to thank this beautiful creature.. for all that she had done for him.. but he was looking for ideas..

he heard her soft sighs and he felt the way she all but sagged against him.. relaxing in his embrace.. her fingers were soft and smooth as she reached back for his cheek..she turned then to face him.. his hands shifted.. coming to rest then against her lower back.. he tilted his head down to look to her.. to watch her.. before she lifted up on her toes.. his hands slid a little lower to the gentle curves of her ass as he hooked under and he lifted her up so she wouldn't have to stretch what with her having removed those heels she was wearing.. he just held her up as their lips met.. her feet a little off the ground.. accepting that soft flick of her tongue.. caressing it with his own as he drew it into the depths of his mouth.. it wasn't hard.. or urgent.. it was just.. needed.. before it inevitably broke.. his kiss lifting to meet her forehead before he lowered her back down..

a smile developed when she spoke about the flowers..before he reached up to re position them a little in her hair.. they'd shifted just a touch when she took that tumble into Faelon..- It was just something small..-his fingers lightly captured a wayward light coloured curl of hers.. drawing it back behind her ear before he fell silent.. listening to her.. feeling her warm palms cradling his cheeks as she spoke on having something she would desire.. only for him to let himself be happy.. his gaze searched her own.. curious as to her reasoning.. before she explained that she could see how desperately he was trying.. but that something inside him was holding him back.. and he knew.. exactly what it was..

his past was like a little black cloud.. following him around.. he had the power to fan it off.. to blow it away.. but he wasn't sure he could.. or that he was really ready to.. he swallowed.. his brows furrowing just a touch.. he knew she was right.. when was the last time he allowed himself to just.. enjoy.. to just be happy..his lids closed over a little and his head rested back against the tree. ..though he couldn't look away from her.. not really..and if he did it was only for a matter of maybe a moment.. or two.. she was the anchor point that he continued to return to.. she spoke on how she could be selfish and greedy.. asking for him to become her lover.. he blinked.. his cheeks coloured just enough to notice before he pulled a reign on that one.. the corners of his lips curled.. a smile developing.. might have been a bit of an awkward one but it was there.. he took a quiet breath.. drawing her lithe body in closer to him.. his fingers lightly rubbing and touching the fabric at her lower back.. -.. I sometimes wonder if you know just how much of a sweetheart you are Rose.. -his head tilted to the side when her hands came to rest upon his shoulders-.. You are right.. you seem to have a knack for it.. when it comes to me.. and to pretty much anything.. -he rubbed his lips together.. pausing a moment as if musing on the right words-.. my past was turbulent.. it was a little harsh.. and it taught me a lot of very.. very hard lessons.. in restrospect I made some mistakes.. some hasty decisions and.. i paid for it..

-his hands rose from about her middle there.. brushing curled fingers across her cheeks.. slowly drawing down along her arms there.. before his hands would take hers.. interlacing.. giving a light squeeze.. he'd glance over his shoulder every so often to make sure there was no one approaching.. no one coming down this way.. before he would turn to look back upon her-.. I tried.. to recover from it.. to get better.. I had a lot of people in my ear.. at certain points.. mostly my family.. but I even pushed them away for a time.. I felt suffocated.. -he swallowed-.. somewhere along the way something went wrong and I fell apart again.. I just.. lost.. again.. and it keeps repeating.. hence the -he frowned a touch and exhaled.. thinking on the fight the night before..before he shook his head.. whisking all those thoughts away.. not wanting to dwell on it.. not here.. not now.. -.. mm.. ok.. I dont know.. what this is.. -he motioned between them both-..I dont know.. -he tilted his head a little.. watching her before he drew her in close.. his arms wrapping around her as his chin came to rest upon her head.. -.. I dont know if I like you.. or.. -his heart skipped a little-.. love you.. want you or.. need you.. -his fingers began to lightly rub up and down her back..-.. All i do know is I love the feeling I get when I'm with you..-it felt good to get it out.. but it also left him feeling quite raw and vulnerable.. like she could just step back and shoot him down in that instant.. she could laugh at him.. not that he thought she would.. but when one is feeling vulnerable.. most logic and reason takes a holiday..

what she did though.. he was not expecting.. his ears twitched to the sound of the moan.. her exploring fingers there as he shifted a little against the thick tree trunk.. before she lifted her head and their lips met once more.. his shoulders sunk a little and he just fell into it.. feeling that sudden cool rush as it over took him.. his fingers at her lower back gripped the fabric of her dress all the more tighter.. lips locked firm.. tight.. parted a little wider to accept and encourage tongues to mingle and wander.. he tasted of her.. and her of him.. drawing breath and whimper.. he could feel the rounds of her breasts pressed to his chest.. the hardened buds of her nipples easily apparent.. his own body just gave in.. his slacks becoming all the more tighter from the attention of her proximity, her scent.. her touches.. the noises she made.. all of it.. she was like a drug to him.. and each and every little hit was just getting him all the more addicted..he hissed though against her lips when she grabbed at his pants.. stroking his cock through the fabric.. he ached for the feeling of her skin against his.. gasping only when their lips broke apart.. ans she dropped down to her knees.. his chest rose and fell a little more rapidly as his heart rate picked up.. his lids fell heavy.. half closed when she began to slide that zipper down.-.. Oh god.. -little more than a needful breathy whisper.. that first contact made his body twitch.. she would have felt the sudden tension and tremble that followed-.. You've been thinking about it?.. -he swallowed.. glancing over his shoulder just a little before looking back to her.. -.. it's all thats been on my mind.. I question.. what i could have possibly thought about.. before you..

-his knees just about buckled when he felt that tongue.. hot and wet.. firm and yet soft.. he groaned.. keeping his voice low.. catching the sight of her.. down there upon her knees.. dressed as she was.. looking up to him with those big gorgeous eyes of hers.. her lips parted.. taking the head of his cock into her mouth whilst her fingers wrapped around it and they began to stroke.. he gripped the tree then.. to keep himself from just toppling.. rocking his head back as his breathing picked up audibly.. it had been a very.. very long time since he had felt this.. since anyone had taken him down this little naughty path.. he trembled.. he moaned.. for someone who had no real idea on sex or pleasure she picked it up very.. very quickly.. he never would have guessed had he not have already known.. his free hand came round to bury itself into her hair.. fingers fanning out before curling in.. to grip.. to hold.. and when she hit those places.. when she drew him in.. when he felt that restriction of her tiny throat he gripped harder.. -.. God yes.. -he whined..clenching his eyes closed a moment though enjoying the view far to much to be able to look away for long.. she had him going.. though it wouldn't have taken too much afterall he hadn't dealt with the issue since they were interrupted that night..

the look of her.. the slight bounce of her breasts each time she moved.. the dipping.. the sounds of her lips.. the suction gripping and releasing.. he was trying so hard not to lose his footing.. to keep standing upright.. he was also struggling with the idea of keeping quiet.. -.. Fuck that feels incredible.. dont stop.. -he called to her.. cussing wasn't something he did terribly often.. but in this instance it was the most appropriate emotional response.. the pressure built quickly.. like someone adding fuel to the burning hot coals.. she would have felt his body tense and stiffen.. his cock would have throbbed against her tongue and throat .. wether or not she understood what that meant.. wether or not she was ready or prepared for it was something else entirely.. but he couldn't hold it back any longer.. her words.. her urging him on tipped him over the edge as he groaned and hissed through gritted down teeth.. his fingers in her hair pulled..holding her in place almost.. at least for a moment as he coated the back of her throat.. her tongue.. her mouth.. gasping as he did so..his body jerking a little.. his lids had fallen closed as his hand fell away from her hair-.. Oh god.. oh.. wow.. -he whispered.. his breath hitching there as he sagged against the tree.. she placed him back.. drawing that zipper and belt into place as she wrapped her arms around him.. his hands came down to her shoulders there as he swallowed.. blowing out breaths in an effort to regain a little composure.. -.. Rose.. that was.. -he wouldn't find the right words.. his head was just filled with fog..

he urged her up to him.. sliding his hands down around her.. under her arms to begin with until she rose to stand.. before he would draw her in close.. tightly against him.. his forehead to hers-.. you're incredible.. -he whispered.. his breath still coming out in whisps and stop starts.. before he claimed her lips.. just a soft continuation of the earlier kiss.. though this time with the hint of a taste of something else.. before there would be a whistle sound.. it was shrill and high pitched..he laughed a little there close to her-.. mmhmm.. figures.. -lips to her forehead once more before he released her..-.. you go up first.. ill be there in a moment.. -his gaze lingered upon her.. he didnt want her to think he was ashamed to be seen with her.. or anything like that.. couldn't have been further from it really.. and he honestly hoped she didn't think or feel that way..

his fingers held hers for as long as they could before arms were outstretched and he released.. watching her before she disappeared out of sight.. Rincavornon was being helped back into his carriage there at the back.. the guy looked tired.. like he needed to sleep for a week.. bruises still very very apparent.. looking much like Jacob would have if she hadn't of had the forethought to use the salves she did.. Faelons girls settled into the second.. the good Doctor was pointing out texts they should be studying on the next leg of the journey and like good little students they were lapping up the education like a kitten with cream.. Kit called out to her.. waiting at the door of the carriage there-..(K) Where'd you go?.. I was looking around a little for you.. -Kit would offer a smile there.. happy that you were helping her out like this and that any grudges that did develop were slowly seeming to fade.. could it be possible she made a genuine friend..-..(K) When we get to Narius I heard the rooms are for 2.. do you want to bunk in with me?.. I dont mind if you don't I just figured.. well.. mm.. -she didn't want to over step.. she just really didn't want to end up with the other two.. and when the numbers stacked up its usually what happened.. Kit sunk down into the seat there.. helping you up into the carriage if you needed it.. Faelon stood outside.. kind of looking around.. his hand cupped to the side of his mouth as he called out for Jacob.. the whistle sounded once more.. before he would appear coming up from the slight decline in the hill.. brushing his hair back from his face there.. offering a wave as he took off in a bit of a jog to catch up.. ushering Faelon into the cab before he himself followed and he sunk down to sit..

he looked a bit.. well.. red faced.. bit worn.. he knocked the back of the cab to alert the drivers and they were on their way once more-.. Sorry.. I got caught up.. -he pulled a pouch from his pocket.. or more so it was one of the little bags she had the food in earlier.. and inside it were tiny yellow blooms.. a few roots and some plant matter-.. caught a glimpse of some Agrimony.. and well.. went down to grab a few pieces of it.. kind of got carried away.. was harder to get back up than i first expected.. nearly had to call for help.. -his brows furrowed a little and he laughed.. Faelon shook his head-..(F) Always the scavenger.. -before he too had a bit of a laugh there.. reaching across as he brushed a bit of tree moss from the back of Jacobs vest-.(F). mmhmm.. cant take you anywhere it seems.. -he turned back to his book there.. Kit did much the same.. his attention shifted to her then..giving her a knowing glance as he slid that little bag down into his satchel there.. he shot her a bit of a covert wink there.. before he plucked that notepad back up and he settled back in his seat.. the next leg of the journey took a few more hours than the first.. there was no further rest breaks.. though the four of them would often settle in to help Kit out with answers to questions.. explanations on theories..

him and Faelon had a few different ideas for things.. and whilst neither were wrong.. it was good to see two doctors able to have a differing opinion without falling into arguments.. there were a few laughs.. and a bit of discussion about Narius itself.. and where they would be staying.. it was an Inn close to the hospital.. namely used by travelling doctors and the like.. he used to stay there.. Faelon had also on more than one occasion..the ground beneath the carriage changed.. going from soft grasses and moss.. to harder cobbles and the carriage came to a slow stop.. the whistle sounded and he nodded.. it was coming into the evening now.. they had travelled for the better part of a day.. and with the drivers being elvish.. a little magical notes.. making the journey quicker than it should have been though the humans in the carriages would not have noticed anything different.. the driver hopped down and opened the doors..-.. (driver)This is as far as we go Sir.. the town carriages wait upon the other side of the tunnel.. Have a safe stay.. send the canary when you're ready to return home.. -the driver bowed his head before he backed away from the door.. the secondary was up pulling the bags down for them all.. placing them neatly upon the back of the carriage for all to take their own..he offered a smile to the driver and nodded his head-.. Wonderful.. thank you kindly..

-he stepped out.. Faelon soon followed.. he reached for Kits hand.. helping her down.. and then took hers.. fingers curling just a touch.. waiting until she was safely down upon the cobbled ground before he would release it.. upon exiting the carriage she would see it was darker than she may have expected.. going into the evening.. though the trees above them did take away a lot of the natural light.. just little bits of it floated through the leaves when the wind blew.. they were on a cobbled and stone path way.. it was finely made.. probably dwarvish a little elvish.. she'd be able to see why the carriage had to stop.. the pathway narrowed considerably.. turned and lead to a stone doorway with an iron gate-.. Narius from this side is gated.. they had a lot of problems in the early days from raiders and war.. so they built themselves up and hid away a little.. we could have gone around it.. but it would have put in an extra days travel.. and its really not necessary.. this way whilst a little.. inconvenient.. is quicker.. -he gathered up his bag there.. and then took hers.. waiting until everyone was organised before he would take the lead and walk up the semi hill there.. offering to help her though if she needed it.. the shoes were perhaps not the wisest choice.. but she was not to know the terrain would be like this at all..

he opened the gate there.. giving the door a hard shove.. it took a little before it gave way.. opening up.. leading to a small tunnel .. it was all but pitch black though.. a soft light in the distance.. he waved his hand a little dismissively.. as if it was simple instinct.. and the torches burst to life.. lighting the area.. it wasn't terribly long.. it wasn't dirty or dingy.. it was simply a carved out stone tunnel.. dry.. clean.. maybe a little cold.. he waited then.. behind until the last person.. namely Rincavornon passed through the gate.. before he would draw the door closed and the gate swung into place..-.. Just keep going through.. Faelon knows the way.. -he would call out. his voice echoing a little.. Faelons girls seemed eager and a little excited.. Ellen and Luna were on the defensive.. perhaps frightened of the unknown.. when they reached the other end there would be a gate.. though it was easily accessed.. just a lifting of a iron lever and it would swing open.. it was lighter on this side of the hill.. not quite as dark as the trees werent heavy above them.. the scene opened out to a wide valley.. the city was vast in the distance there.. rows and rows of houses.. some tall with many rooms.. some shorter.. balconies.. people dotted here and there.. it was busy.. and perhaps he had forgotten to mention.. but Narius was a port town.. the ocean.. was right there.. to the right.. the vast blue of the water just seemingly never ending.. boats peppered about.... the group would all exit the tunnel.. and there were whispers and wide eyes.. so many were eager to explore.. he drew the gate closed behind him.. glancing out over the view there.. -..

Welcome to Narius.. -he would call out.. lifting his hand as one of the larger carriages would be waiting on them.. this time they would all fit in one.. would be a little bit of a squeeze.. but not to terribly uncomfortable.. he helped pack the cases on the back.. waiting until everyone settled in before he drew the door closed .. but he himself sat up with the driver there.. if they looked out the windows they would see couples wandering.. children playing in the street.. as they neared the city there would be music playing.. as if musicians were just waiting upon corners.. to allow their songs to float along the sea breeze.. and thats how it smelt.. like salt and floral.. like freshly baked goods and newly burning hearth fires.. there would be tiny alley ways with shops hidden here and there.. tiny signs allerting to the tailors and seamstresses.. to giftware and baked goods.. trinkets and toys.. there would be a guard stationed here and there.. standing poised and ready.. alert but not overbearing.. it was as if they blended in on purpose to not cause alarm.. but to allow those within the city to relax.. knowing they were protected.. they travelled with the sounds of cobbles beneath the horses and wheels.. stopping and starting a but as they grew further into the town proper.. before they came to a slow and a stop.. before a grand old manor.. it appeared to be about double the size of the one they stayed in currently.. but it had more of an old English feel.. the gardens were cottage styled.. the signs out front indicated this was the Inn.. he drew the doors open there.. helping the ladies to get out if they required his aid.. whilst the driver and Faelon got down the bags-..

[BadInfluence]

It was wonderful in that closed space, even with Kit at her side and helping her with whatever questions she had, her heart raced and skittered about whenever she caught him looking at her… Or she at him… No one else would notice, they were far too smart about it, too subtle and shy… But they knew… They noticed… And that made this all the sweeter… Like a secret game only they played, a measure of stolen looks and hoarded glances, seeing who could catch the other the most… A wonderful… Incredible… Softly sweet little private count… All the while though she made sure to help Kit, and honestly she did have a lot of potential when you took her out of the bad group, a bit like a child who is in an abusive household… Once you take them out they just seem to grow and flourish once they’re in a safe and solid environment. Kit was that kind of person, at least that was the feel she got off of her, and this wasn’t the first time she had seen it either. It was why she had tried to help Kit the moment she went into the doctorate program with her, because it showed Kit did want to be something more, and because of that? She felt something might just be there… And something was… Just like the abused children in the orphanage, Kit had reverted to old habits to try and find security in the space, which was what Kit had done with Jacob. She hadn’t meant it with malice, and like she thought once she got the chance, she did want to change… Look at her now? Sitting and studding and really making an effort, so of course she was going to support that fully and to the best of her abilities, which meant she slipped into the teacher mode she had once been at the orphanage. She was good at it, it made her happy and gave her a purpose in the years she felt a little adrift, and Kit was a good student. She didn’t ask too many questions, she did try to work it out on her own, and in general she really did have the potential. She was glad that Jacob and Dr. Faelon were both there, supporting Kit and her in this, it meant a lot to her… Kit might have a somewhat unique position but it wasn’t exactly bad, it did give her a greater step up in a way, instead of only having one doctor she had to she could ping between. With that plus her own tutoring to help keep her on the path she was confident that it would be no time at all before Kit showed her true potential and could really start to live the life she wanted. Until then though she had promised to tutor Kit and she would, which was why she settled in quietly beside her and worked with her one on one, easily breaking things down in a way Kit could relate to… Unaware of Jacobs thoughts about her, or how he felt she would make a great teacher, all she knew? Was that she didn’t think anyone deserved to be left in the dark just because of the mistakes of their past.



She was enjoying the ride, bouncing between her own books and Kit’s needs when she realized she was getting hungry, and thought it would be a good time to break out the snacks she had packed up the day before. She wasn’t perfect, but she did at least try to think a day or two ahead, at least in ways like this. “Initiative? I just didn’t want Dr. Faelon to see if I could be cooked up to any palatable degree. I’m sure he picked out all the good parts when he caught me outside, but I think I might survive if I supplant my soft parts of cheese and fruit, at least for now…” She said teasingly as she gave Dr. Faelon a wink… Showing Kit you could tease and have fun with men in a way that was completely and entirely non-sexual, that there were plenty of happy, easy conversations and ways to exist around them that had nothing to do with the life they had lived before. The riders slipped into silence with the food and their own studies, Jacob the only one not reading but writing, and admittedly more than once her eyes lifted… And she stretched out a little in her seat, wondering what he was doing there, what notes had his attention… When she couldn’t see them she gave up and smiled, a shrug of ‘well you got me’ there, and returned to her own books… At least until the stop and once she got out, oh yes she was more than a little happy with it, the place was beautiful and it called to all her senses… She ditched the shoes and went barefoot, soaking up the earth and the wilds around her, communicating with the trees and hearing their stories… She always felt the most safe… Secure in the woods… Like familiar friends and guardians she never once knew a tremble of terror in their treetops… She was caught a touch off guard when she caught Jacobs little signal before he vanished off the ledge, her ears flicking and her curiosity raging, but she knew better than to go after him directly… It would sent up so many flags so instead she wandered a little, drifted… Dropped down there but a bit apart from him, having lost him behind the tree and was about to call out for him, to find him when she was pulled against his chest…



Something about that made her want to turn into a pat of warm butter, the strength in his hands but were also so gentle, the heat and hard planes of his chest as she rested against him… She thought maybe it was just a one time thing but it wasn’t dear God no, it was just this thing that always occurred the moment he touched her, she felt bathed in warm honey and softer than fresh dough… Could he tell? The way her heart beat just for him? The blush on her cheeks? The way her breathing changed and her nipples hardened?... He effected every part of her, inside and out, and if he only looked… They were so very plain to see. She smiled at his words, reaching up to gently caress the side of his face, so tender with his hurts and pains… She loved this… Did she love him?... She was afraid she knew the answer… Afraid she had known it for at least a day… You don’t feel the way she did for him when it was just lust or need… This went well beyond sexual sensations… Desires… Wants… This was deeper than that, she wanted him in her bones, like the desperate pleading of her soul to his… She had never been in love before… She had never even been in like… Hell, she had barely even entered tolerate before… But now? Now he was all she thought about, he was constantly on her mind, in the books she read and the soft feel of the wind on her cheeks… Please God help her, she thought, because the more she did… The more she knew… She turned in his arms then, feeling his fingers slide to rest in the dip of her lower back, pressing flush against him sweetly… When his hands drifted down to help her up a bit she almost moaned right then and there, remembering the last time he had touched her ass, the feeling of him wrapped up in her thighs… Christ it was enough to have her walking a tight rope of pleasure, one that drove her to give in and kiss him, nothing rushed or pressing… No it was sweet, perfect, a heady mix of need and want… The sweet little kitten moan as he returned it, tasting the fruit and cheese on his tongue as she delved into his kiss, fingers curling in his shirt for a moment as she simply surrendered… Everything was in that kiss and when it ended it left her feeling sweet and warm, like a fresh cinnamon bun from the oven, sagging against him with a gentle submission…



She told him the flowers were more than enough, and they were, to her they were the most precious of gifts. She ended up smiling at him when he said it was something small, shaking her head but pausing when he was fixing the little spray in her hair, her eyes sparkling as she looked up at him. “What is a small gift? Sometimes it’s the smallest moments in our lives that make the biggest impacts… To me they are perfect, forget-me-nots have some of the most beautiful meanings in the plant world, and are some of the prettiest…” They meant true love, but she wasn’t quite silly enough to leap at it, instead she tried to think of it from another view… She didn’t want to get her hopes up, to build her castles in the sky too large, and yet… She saw so many reasons why she should… “It’s the first time anyone has ever given me flowers… It really meant so much to me…” But if he insisted that she needed something else? That was when she told him to just let himself be happy… Her fingers gently touched his cheeks, cradling them in her palms, wanting him to know she was here… She wasn’t judging or rushing, but if he really wanted to repay her, then that was how she was choosing it… She saw the way he was looking at her, the curiosity there, and who could blame him? To anyone on the outside looking in he seemed to have plenty of happy moments, where he smiled and laughed, but she could see past that… The fact even in those moments there was a sadness that lingered, an ever present sort of matte layer that dulled his shine, kept him from truly being in the moment… She wasn’t trying to push though she knew flat out that she was treading on some very old, very rotten black ice, and one wrong step could have consequences that stretched out for quite a time… She likened him to a seed in a way, trapped in winter and desperate for spring, and that spring… It was there… Waiting for him… It was right around the corner if only he took it… Reached out… Dared to grasp it… But since she said what she had, she also felt it was only fair to reveal something of herself, that being the very real fact that she wanted him… So badly… She would have taken him becoming her lover as payment, she knew what she was asking for and what was involved, she had read that much and was very aware of what waiting behind that door.. Something she wanted… Her virginity was her gift to give after all, and if she were to pick anyone at all to give it to, it was him… Not just for the fact she felt so deeply for him, but because there was such a level of trust and understanding between them that defied time and space, and under even all that? He had already shown her once just how amazing he could make her feel, just the small touches of his hand and nothing else had sent her on such a high trip she was constantly chasing it down, wanting to feel it again… She wanted him to be her lover, but not because she asked, but because he wanted to… But at least now? Now he knew how she felt, what she wanted, what she was open to… She watched the blush on his cheeks for a moment before he sported this incredibly adorable and slightly awkward smile, feeling him draw her in closer… Had she said something funny? Or silly? She had thought she was being quite mature and very grown up about it… Had she misstepped? She almost wanted to ask, especially when he said what he did, but instead she just held him back… Feeling the slow sweet rubbing of his fingers in the dip of her spine, the feel of his shoulders under her fingers, and she stayed there… Silent… Listening… No judgement just simple love and support, understanding and openness, a willingness to take his words and feelings unto herself… To help him carry his burden.



In the gap she did speak though, retuning the soft squeeze of his hands around hers, their fingers linked as she stood with him. “You see me? Here? This is where I will stay Jacob… Sometimes at your back to push you forward… Sometimes at your side to keep you company… Sometimes ahead to guide you when you can’t find your way… But I’ll always be here… I’m as real as the trees, my roots run deep and strong, and I can weather any storm this world throws at me… Don’t be afraid to lean on me, to look for shelter in my arms or to rest in my shade, or to hide from the storm in my roots… No matter what, I swear on my blood and my body, I will always be here for you. I’m not going anywhere…” She knew it was hard to heal when you felt the world you were a part of was going to judge you… Family can be too soft sometimes, they like to line your nest which in turn makes is so comfortable, you don’t want to leave… Others can be too rough and callous like a desert, making you feel drained just by trying, making you want to avoid it at all costs… What he needed was an open space… A place he could express himself without either extreme, a neutral ground that allowed him to process and work through things, with just enough support to be there when the burden got hard to bear or he needed someone who could give him a mirror or a spyglass, a chance to see the world around him in a different way… She wanted to be that space, his safe spot, the place where he could be himself and start to heal in the way only He knew how… Not because of her, not because of his family or friends, but because of him… Because he was ready for spring… She blushed when he made a motion between them, that he didn’t know what it was, her heart picking up and throbbing in her chest as she listened like every word was life or death… But what he said she knew was a confession, and it left him raw and aching, and if she were anyone else… Yes… She could have hurt him deeply, ripped him a wound so deep he could never heal the scar it would leave, instead though? Instead she told him the truth… “I think I love you… I’ve never loved anyone, I’ve never liked someone either, at best people were just people but… You came into my life like this shooting star and exploded in my night sky in a shower of sparks and colors and nothing’s been the same since… I had to look in the book you lent me to find out if they had a chapter on feelings, on a way to sort out what I feel, to give it a name… You’re my first thought in the morning and my last before bed, I don’t have an hour that goes by when I don’t think about you at least once, where I don’t hope I see you… I want to see you happy, I want to see you smile and thrive, I want to help make your dreams a reality…” Her love was in so many ways non-sexual, but that didn’t mean it was purely puritan either, because under that selfless love there was a need for him… “I could love you forever and not ask for anything back because loving you… It is its own heaven… It’s more than I ever dreamed I would have… But under that too… Is this need to have you… In every sense of the word… To touch you and feel you, to hear your heart skip and race, to hear you moan… I want your touch on my skin, to feel you driving me to that place where I explode and fall apart, I want you to be the only one who takes me there… I want to give my virginity to you if only because there is no one in this world I want more than you… You’re my perfect drug and my personal addiction, every touch is like a hit and I get more and more hooked until I’m practically begging for a kiss, because I feel that if I can’t kiss you at least once a day I will expire…” She couldn’t hold it back anymore when she went up and kissed him, something in it different from before, the hunger… She moaned against his lips as he fisted his fingers in her dress, pinching her delicious about her waist and under her bust, her fingers tugging at that bow to give him access to her breasts. The kiss was feverish and perfect, hot sweet little moans and desperate fingers, tango dancing tongues and languishing lips…



It was a moment later she was kissing down his chest and abs, eager to take him in her mouth, to finish that fantasy… That dream… She was hungry for him, a part of her was almost starving form the curiosity, wanting so badly to know how he tasted… What his climax was like… What it would feel like to bring him to that place… She unzipped his pants as she confessed this had been on her mind constantly since that night, her pupils dilating the second his musk hit her senses, causing the most delicious purr to fall from her lips in anticipation… “Constantly… It took everything I had not to come up to you in the shower and finish it there… I don’t think I could have stopped if I started…” What did she mean by that? What it sounded like… No clothes, warm bodies, privacy… She would have given herself up to him to use how he willed without a moments hesitation if she had given into her desires, but instead she had refrained and held back as best she could, not wanting to make him uncomfortable in a place that had already been tainted once… “Then think of me… God knows I think of you…” She moaned before she began to lap at the head of his cock like a kitten at the crème dish, moaning softly at the taste of him exploding on her tongue, the sweet salted caramel that made her weak… So weak… She began to slide down into his cock then, lips parting and burning at the corners, truly he was large… Incredibly so and a part of her was just wild enough to relish it, to embrace and crave it, the girth of it less a fear and more of a deep feminine satisfaction… She was a smart study, she had picked up on the strokes he liked that night before they were interrupted, and after that? She listened… Between what she had read in the book which oh yes, had quite the plethora of information and tips with tricks and the like, she listened to HIM…. What his body said, what his mouth said, the feelings she got off of him to the point she knew what he needed the moment he needed it… Hearing his moans and gasps, the way his breath raced had her soaking wet in seconds, her hands itching to explore her own body but his… Oh his was a much more tempting thing to touch… To explore… Oh he was the best drug… She was panting around his cock, moaning lustily and at this point she could not find two fucks to give if anyone came upon them, she wouldn’t have stopped even if God himself came down in the burning bush. She nearly lost it when he put his fingers in her hair, sweet Christ something about that drove her absolutely wild, just like that little love bite to her shoulder this just flicked something hard… Something that lay buried deep inside her but came out the moment he touched her, her fingers curling into his ass while her free hand reached up and held his there… Telling him without words she loved it, relished it, encouraged his hands there… She felt his pleasure in his fingers and his words when she gagged on his cock and she made sure to give him that every stroke, the sweet wet slurping sounds as she gave him decadent felatio, a small bit of drool forming on her bottom lip as she hungrily devoured him. She wanted to be the best he ever had, she wanted to be the only thing he thought about when he touched himself, imaging her mouth on him… Gagging on his thick girth and delicious length, the feel of her tight throat getting tighter still with each constriction, the way she took him to the hilt with a hunger that was built purely out of shared pleasure… For as she pleased him, she herself felt pleasure, so much so that when he got harder? His cock swelling and throbbing? She had no idea what it meant but it wasn’t a bad surprise, she wouldn’t have pulled off anyways, but his fingers in her hair as he held her there? Was it any wonder she came with him? She shattered as she took every sticky hot spurt and jet, thick sweet pearls finding their way down her throat and across her tongue, making her moan over and over again with how amazing it felt… How perfect he tasted… She dragged it out for as long as she could without overstimulating him, instead focusing on keeping him on that orgasmic high, letting him slowly drift back down… The way he gasped… Breaths catching as he sagged against that tree…



She made sure to put him away neatly and comfortably, that not a bit of him was out of place, no one would ever know what had happened on the other side of that tree… “I know… I came too…” She breathed, about as unstable as he was really, feeling his gentle urging to get to her feet… A bit unsteady… A bit shaky… When he pulled her in against him she melted into him, her arms about his waist as she held him tightly, feeling the gentle fan of his breath across her cheeks. “ So are you… Can we do it again?” She whispered back, wanting to do this more than just once, though perhaps… Not quite in the open… Before she got an answer he leaned in and kissed her, her head floating right off into the clouds as her fingers trailed up to twine behind his neck, curling into his hair line before she began to move in… Eager to pursue this kiss… Only then the whistle sounded and she heard his laugh, her own followed behind it as she shook her head, wondering if there was just some really demented interrupting cow lingering in her shadows or something… “Tonight?” She would ask, wondering if they could meet up again, but for what… Who knew? Perhaps just for kisses… Perhaps for something irrevocable… She stepped away after that soul melting kiss to her forehead and she quickly set her hair to rights, adjusting the flower again before tying the bow of her dress once more, looking as neat and put together as he did… She headed up before him, looking back at him with a smile, her fingers running along his arms up to their hands before they had to part. She knew why, hell how could she not, so much of their relationship was private from the world… Just him and her… If anyone else knew? They would sling things at her precious memories and she wasn’t about to let anyone destroy the heaven she found with him. When she headed up she had several samples of moss in her fingers, waving to Kit who was calling out to her, smiling gently as she met up with her at the door. “I’m a weird creature I suppose, moss is really good for helping to heal wounds without risking that really painful gauze getting trapped in the healing scabs, and when I saw how old this place is I knew it was going to have some amazing samples. They’re just down the ledge a ways and I ended up getting rather focused at removing them without damaging the tree or the rest of the samples. I’ll tell you all about the on the way so you can see if maybe the plant side of the medical field is something you’ll like.” After all, she was passionate about all of it, but her strong suit was definitely in the plant area. Maybe Kit might have an affinity for it too? You never knew what someone might be amazing at if you don’t at least show them the door. She heard the ask to room up and she nodded her head. “That sounds like a great idea. I’d rather be stuck in a barrel full of skunks than risk Luna or Ellen getting in with me. I sometimes wake up and study or write ideas down if they come to me so if you don’t mind that I’ll be happy to share a room with you.” She said with another nod before they started to get up into the carriage again. She handed Kit the moss before getting up with the use of her hands, honestly she missed the mens clothes she wore, but not as much as she loved the way Jacob kept watching her… Worth the added effort… Once inside she began to point out in Kits book the types of moss she gathered, explaining along with the books how they could be used moist or dried, and how some of them you can even eat which has been proven to help with some ah… Backed up issues…



Jacob had come in a few minutes behind her, hearing his words and the smile on her face was impossible to hide, something in her eyes was so very naughty. “Just a flower? Are you sure it wasn’t some lovely nymph that snared you? I hear they’re quite active this time of year…” Oh it was bad… Terrible really… After all he might as well have been caught up with one since she had enjoyed him quite thoroughly by that tree… Would he blush? Laugh? Tease back? It was hard to say… She did end up laughing at Dr. Faelon’s teasing though, holding her hand up a bit there, blushing softly. “Technically it’s my fault… I sort of maybe picked his supply dry when I was making this salve and… Well if it’s there, you might as well get it, especially in a place like this… Though I did tell him I would always pay back what he gave me…” Oh she was EVIL! Oh she was definitely dipping her words into chocolate to toss at him, knowing he would easily pick up at the double entendre while no one else would notice a thing, which made it all the more deliciously wicked. They started off again once everyone was settled and she couldn’t help the blush when she caught his look, trying so hard not to laugh, the wink almost undoing her efforts… She wriggled her nose at him affectionately before they settled into a routine, all of them slowly helping Kit in this or that area that she was struggling in or had questions, all of them having advice in their areas of specialty so Kit was really in the Queens seat… Something that probably did a good deal to boost her confidence. As Kit herself studied she began to map out a sort of study guide for her, which books to read in what order, the pages she remembered were particularly helpful or entire chapters at times. It was a sort of road map that had been her path when she was educating herself, only this time Kit had the benefit of added knowledge from what she had accumulated, adding more books and information. In the end? It was an idea study guide that Kit could attend if she ever needed something but no one was around to help her. This way she would never be idle or left to wander, she would be kept busy in a way that would help her, not to mention keep her education on the right track.



Though to her shame and perhaps a little bit of a tell, she drifted off with her head against the carriage side, dozing while everyone chatted happily around her. You could say she was one of those people who ended up finding random cat naps after sex, or in her case, oral sex… She didn’t last much longer than an hour in before she had slipped into a cat nap, books in her lap as her head gently lulled against the soft cabin side, and she didn’t wake until they were stopping… The shift between soft earth and rough cobbles waking her, causing her to sit up and blink, flushing at the fact she had entirely fallen asleep. She was a bit jet lagged, a little tired before she realized what was going on, smiling bashfully before she slipped on her heels and made her way down with everyone else. She easily made her way to her bags, picking them up as she made her way to the side, looking at what lay before her… It all seemed so… Well… Unassuming… She tilted her head in confusion before she caught the scent of something different… Sort of fishy… Salty… She had never smelled anything like it in her life and she couldn’t place it, her nose slightly lifted to the wind, trying to figure it out much as a cat would. “Oh so this town must have something very valuable to have been hit so often they had to close it off like this… I wonder what it is…” Towns don’t get hit more than once without a reason, they either had rich farm lands or ore deposits, something that made them a prime target… And given the wall she saw? Yeah… It had to be bad… She was about to take her bag with her when she caught him sneaking it from her fingers, her lips curling in a warm little smile just for him, and she didn’t object like she might have before… She thought if she was right that this?... Was his way of showing he cared for her in a way that was sweet but also acceptable. The little semi-hill though… She ended up with a mix of something like a groan and a laugh all at once, putting her hands on her hips as she tilted her head, tapping her heel… “If I fall and break my neck I give rights to my body to Dr. Faelon for study…” She said jokingly before she would start up that hill with the rest of them and while no… Oh GOD no this was not idea, at least the paving stones were solid and didn’t try to swallow her heels, and with that inherent natural elvish grace she actually managed it for the most part, only needing to take Jacob’s hand at a particularly slick spot that was some sort of viscus slime. She might have to talk to Anouk about this later, given that yes they had certainly achieved what she wanted, it was with a pretty high price!



The space in that tunnel though… That… Was not good… She almost panicked and back tracked, taking a few steps back as it was at the darkness, the cold air and the sheer feeling of being closed in… She began to hyperventilate a little before the lights suddenly flicked on and she sagged a touch, her hand over her heart as she made herself calm down, reminding herself it was just a tunnel… Not even a big one… She made her way forward following Faelon, Luna and Ellen along with Rincavornon behind and Faelon’s students at the fore… She and Kit in the middle as they made their way forward. Once out the gate at the other side though? She ended up stopping dead in her tracks as she saw the glittering blue expanse… “Oh my God…” She breathed, breaking away from the group to make her way to the side there, leaning over the end to take in the whole scene… It was by far the most beautiful thing she had ever seen, a city there right on the ocean, with so much character in what she could see she wondered how in the world she could have ever… Ever thought there was nothing outside worth seeing… She just stared in wonder and awe, realizing then what she had smelled earlier was the sea, and that sea stretched so much farther than she ever thought it could… “Hello World… It seems I’ve arrived… Thank you for waiting for me…” She whispered to the wind to carry it down to the flowers and trees, to the city itself just waiting for her to explore and discover, so many places that she could see and yet she knew… Knew these places were just the easily visible ones… What lay beneath that? In the secret alcoves? The hidden back alleys and forgotten streets… What secrets did only the lamp lighters know? She wanted to take off her shoes and run, she wanted to start her adventure right here, right now… But she couldn’t… Not because she didn’t have the clothes for it, but rather because she knew right now she wasn’t just Rose, she was Student Doctor Rose, and with that title? Came a good deal of expectations and proper behavior, which meant that while she was with the group, she had to be on her best behavior…



Well…



She Tried…



Once they got into the other carriage and yes, it was a bit tight but manageable, and even more so once they got into town because she gave up her seat. She crouched down by the door and watched it all go by, every smell and sight, the details she couldn’t see on the rise… The sound of music drifting on the wind won her out and she ended up sliding the window down and actually sitting on the ledge, unaware of what a beautiful figure she cut there… Long golden curls and sharp elvish ears, doll like features and a body Venus herself wished she had, causing a stir and a half but she didn’t see any of it. She just wanted to see it all, hear it all, smell it all. She loved every moment of it, the ever changing scents and pictures, the music that shifted faster than a wind chime in a storm… Oh she was enchanted… Charmed and delighted… When they came around to the stone Inn she stopped and just stared a bit… Slipping back in she felt a touch of awe and maybe a little trepidation… It was her adventure and it was real and she was ecstatic… But something about the house commanded respect in a way that an old dame does, not because it’s due but because you know it’s right, like a compulsion. She settled down and let everyone else head out before her, making sure her clothes and hair were perfect, her flowers still there… Only then would she get out, gently taking Jacobs hand as he helped her down, where she would then take her bag if possible. She stood there, looking and observing, feeling the aura of the place… Some of the trees were incredibly old, where as others were just saplings, and the flowers were fickle but most pretty ones are… Over all she didn’t get a bad feel from the place, she rather liked it once she stopped being as intimidated of it as she used to be at the manor where she now lived, and oh… Oh when she got over it and imagined what might happen tonight… Slipping into his room to enjoy that sweet forbidden fruit, to take a hit of her favorite drug, and perhaps… Oh perhaps to find out what it felt like to be made love to… She nearly dropped her back as her whole body broke out in gooseflesh before she tried to shake it off, blaming it on the shift in the wind, smiling and chatting idly with Kit… She would head up to the door with her and be assigned their room, the two of them making their way up to the second story where they took the room that got the most light there, each picking their side of the room and their bed. From there though they had some options. Now she? She was getting changed ASAP. She began to undress as she told Kit she fully planned on adventuring, going out to dinner at one of the bakery’s with those heavenly smelling rolls, and then she was going to find the sea… She encouraged Kit to do what ever made her happy tonight, to go out and explore or stay here and study, but not to worry about her. She might come back quite late if she found a library or a book store so not to wait up and she would see her in the morning. This dress was still beautiful but far more mobile than the last, made of a navy blue chiffon and silk mixture, the dress had a low boat neck and transparent sleeves with a high thick waist that showed off just how delicious her curves were while the rest fell free and flowing. She pulled on a pair of matching ballerina flats and took up a small silver purse, transferring a few things over to it before she would make her way out of the room… In her hand she held a little note… Something that might as well be burning a brand into her skin with how hot it felt there, her heart racing, thudding… Feeling as thought it was going to pop…



When she saw Jacob she would wait until he was alone… Everyone sorting out their rooms… Packing up… She would catch his attention and look at the side room and wait for him there, letting him pack his own things in his room before coming to her, her little feet pacing the floor before he would come in… She would reach out to take his hands in hers, slipping him the note before going on her toes to share one soft, sweet little kiss with him… “You can try to find me out on the town… Or you can wait for me here…” She said mysteriously before she would leave in there with the note, disappearing out the doors after telling the head clerk she would be back in a couple of hours, she was simply going to play the tourist for a little while. Of course he would keep his eyes out for her… If he could keep them off of her that was… She went out the door and disappeared into the city as if she had always been a part of it, following her nose to the most delicious smells, hungry for something tasty and new… She caught odd flyers here and there… Things pasted on the walls that looked like wanted posters or missing flyers… She ignored them mostly, as well as some of the rather unique things she heard, compliments tossed at her by men she passed by… Each one trying to out do the other, offering to take her on a tour of the town, others to dinner and dancing… IT was all silly and she had no idea what all the attention was about, a city this size new arrivals were a dime a dozen, so she just waved them off. She wasn’t rude, if anything people would say she was incredibly mysterious and enchanting, and that just made them want to follow her all the more. She settled down into the best smelling little place she had found, the rolls fresh made even this late into the day, and she ordered a basket of them with cinnamon butter on the side… She was eating herself into a catatonic state almost, sipping at her black tea that was pretty good for all she hadn’t made it, looking over the city newspaper to see what this place was all about… And it was then she saw an insert… A flyer… With Jacob’s face on it no less… Stating that ‘Wealthy, Eligible Bachelor Jacob Anakin was back in town, Speaking at ---Hospital at --- time, ---day.” [/i] Now… She had seen a lot of things… Heard a lot of things… But this? This was new… Was this some sort of a joke? Someone’s idea of a funny? Or was Jacob really that high of a catch and he hid out in their small town because he didn’t have to deal with this? If so… It just added another reason as to why he struggled with the things he did…



While she read over the paper, Jacob might be settled in with that note to read, and once he did? It would be on a small bit of paper, torn from her journal and written in secret, her heart had beaten so hard when she wrote it she was sure the echoes hit the paper… “Tonight… Midnight…” On the back it said in smaller, softer words, a slight tremble to her fingers as she had written it and it came across in her penmanship. “Become My Lover…” She had meant what she said, that she wanted him to be her first, and after the moment they had shared at the tree… She wanted it… Needed to know this final part… Trusting him with not only her pleasure but her pain too, sure that there was no way for it not to be painful some how, and yet… If she was to ever do this it was with him… He did have the option to turn her down after all, he could tell her he wasn’t interested, that this wasn’t his plan… There was a world of options there for him if he wanted to pursue them… Either way she could say she made that last step between them, she had hit that glass window and if it broke, if he reached through… They would be together in the most intimate of ways and she hoped… She prayed… She could light a fire in him so strong that together they’d chase away those shadows, melt the winter of his heart and finally give him the last thing he might need to really start to heal and let go, to give up the sinking ship and come to shore…



She finished up her plate and paid the tab with a little tip on the side and from there she began her adventure down to the sea, to stop at every store she wished to, to make notes of where to see and go tomorrow before she finally made her way to the waters end… To pause and take off her shoes to feel the cool sand beneath her feet… Walking closer to the harder, wet and compact sand, watching the waves come and go while the wind played with her hair… She was enjoying the feel with her eyes closed when she heard someone coming up to her… She didn’t pay them any mind, figuring they were someone else just enjoying the water before she felt someone actually coming a little too close, she could smell the alcohol and body reek… She recoiled and looked at the rather portly man with a greasy complexion, the way he was eyeing her that made her feel sick to her stomach, stepping away from him. She didn’t talk, she just made sure to put distance between them, trying to return to her peaceful moment… Only again to find his stinking ale riddled breath down her neck before she twitched and stepped away from him again, arms crossed and purse in her hand… Ready to make a weapon of it if she had to… “Would you please stop that? You’re making me uncomfortable and I don’t appreciate the sensation at all.” The man made a gesture then like he couldn’t understand what she was saying, and given the size of the city, of course it was possible there would be different languages… None of which she spoke. She resorted to pointing to him, pointing to the ground and holding her hand up in a stopping motion before stepping away again and keeping her eyes on him, making sure he didn’t move… When, after several moments he didn’t she turned her attention back to the sea before again, she smelled him and a moment later… Felt his hand groping her bottom. Knee jerk… She rounded and kicked him right in the nuts, dropping him like a rock before she reached out and punched him right in the nose, sending him backwards into the sand. What? She grew up with a LOT of boys… She felt her hand throbbing before she ran up the beach and the stairs there, leaving the sandy expanse and the fat pervert behind her, realizing a few moments later that she was lost… Which made her feel even angrier because if she hadn’t been pushed like that she wouldn’t have had the issue in the first place… Which of course lead to one thing… Trying to find her way to the Inn… After all… She might have a very special date waiting for her tonight…

[Deleted]

..his hands had came down to rest there upon the gentle curves of her shoulders.. his breath coming out in short sharp little gasps.. she had thrown him completely.. he never would have expected it to have gone this way.. his mind was filled with such lush fog.. his body felt more relaxed than he could possibly remember it ever being .. then again it had been a while.. a good long while since he had truly had a proper release.. or even allowed himself it.. he urged her to stand.. trying to draw her back up to him as his arms slowly wrapped around her.. pulling her in close.. his forehead resting to hers.. his breath washing across her cheeks.. those lush plump lips of hers.. he whined softly in response to knowing she climaxed in that moment.. that she had gotten herself riled up so keenly to that point where her body threw her over the edge..his heart took little stop starts every so often.. stealing his breath in the process.. he murmured.. his lips brushing to her forehead.. he couldn't help the smile that developed when she asked to do it again.. a light spill of laughter sounded-.. mmm.. i like the sound of that.. -he whispered softly before he leant in to claim those sweet lips of hers once again.. he adored the feeling of her fingers curling into his hair.. the taste of her tongue..her breath.. her bodies proximity.. her heat...all of it.. it was just sublime..

before there it was.. that shrill piercing whistle sounding to alert them to the fact that fun time was over.. her own laughter was like music to his ears.. he watched her as she shook her head.. catching her query.. her question of tonight?.. -.. mm.. we will see how we go.. i'm not terribly sure on the arrangements of the Inn just yet.. lets play it by ear for now.. -he leant in to press another soft kiss to her forehead.. before he released the hold he had upon her.. letting her head up there on her own first.. it was not the time to be rousing suspicion.. they didn't need the added attention and drama.. Kit had been waiting for her in any rate which took all suspicion away in an instant.. the two of them conversing over bedding arrangements and the odd moss substance she had managed to collect whilst on her afternoon wander.. he appeared a short time after.. turning his idle walk into a bit of a jog when Faelon called him out on being a little late..

he sunk down into the carriage there and they were on their way once again..he laughed a little with Faelon there when he was questioned as to where he had been.. just what he had been getting up to.. before he showed off the little bag with tiny yellow flowers.. and a few roots contained.. he turned though when she piped up with her rather cheeky tone.. talking of a nymph perhaps that might have caught his attention instead.. and how they could be quite active at this time of year.. his brow rose a little and he did his best to chew back upon the grin that was forming there .. he clucked his tongue against the roof of his mouth.. holding his hands up defeated.. Faelon laughed and shook hishead-..mmm You caught me Rose.. I gave that wee thing a good run for her money..

-he laughed a little shaking his head as he sunk back in his seat there.. Kit was having a bit of a giggle too.. enjoying the fact that the four of them were just being silly.. poking fun without making it too serious.. or incredibly sexual.. he glanced toward her every so often.. his laughter continuing in little bursts there.. Oh she was incredibly cheeky.. it was very entertaining.. he blinked when Faelon brushed off some moss from his shoulder there.. hearing her pipe in again continuing with her playful naughty little barbs.. he laughed..-.. Oh you are mischevious.. -he glanced toward Faelon there-.. best watch out for this one.. I see trouble on the horizon.. -Faelon glanced up toward her there from his book and laughed quietly..-..(F) Oh yes.. why do you think I left her for you dear Jacob.. of all the Doctors in our house.. the one who needs a little.. mischeviousness.. is you my good man.. -he smiled there.. turning his head back to his book.. the four of them settled back in then.. reading their medical journals.. making notes.. offering explanations and he of course.. working on his notepad that when she tried to take a quick glance well she didn't succeed.. silence settled there.. only the sounds of faintly turning pages.. and pencil to paper.. his ears twitched to the familiar sounds of her soft regular breathing.. only then noticing she had drifted off to sleep.. her head resting closer to the window.. he couldn't help the smile that developed there.. it was one of admiration.. that and the fact he thought she was incredibly cute doing just that.. nothing at all.. it would be then that he'd notice another set of eyes upon him.. it was Kit.. he'd been caught watching Rose.. he turned then back to his notepad there.. and went back to his work.. feeling his heart take a bit of a tumble..

he didn't glance up again for the remainder of that leg of the journey.. only having his attention taken when the carriage came to a slow stop and the whistle sounded.. he figured they were at the gates then and would soon have that confirmed.. helping everyone out there.. making sure the bags were taken down from the top of the carriages.. he watched her.. when he could though he was being a bit more.. cautious about it.. he explained why they had stopped.. and showed her how the pathway narrowed.. how it had become gated from this side and he nodded in response to her words-.. mmhmm.. its quite a rich city.. and thats a lot more than in its people.. the mineral deposits are vast.. the land is incredibly fertile.. and well.. you'l see when you get through.. I doubt you will be disappointed.. -he reached over and took her bag.. carrying both before he would lead the way toward the gate.. making sure everyone was keeping close behind.. and helping her when she required it.. the gate took a few shoves but soon broke free and opened.. he didn't know about her hesitation or he would have calmed her.. though the torches were soon lit.. making it a lot easier to make their way through the tunnel..

he followed along behind everyone.. the last to come through.. closing the gate as he did.. drawing in a nice deep breath.. smelling the salt.. the sea.. oh it was bliss really.. as close to what Humans would refer to heaven as they could possibly get.. well in his mind anyway.. he welcomed them to the city then.. keeping an eye on her as she moved toward one of the thick stone fences.. she seemed to be just soaking it all in.. and he knew.. if she thought this was fanciful.. she was about to have a clean heart attack when she was able to let loose in the city proper.. the carriage approached and he helped place the bags up top.. making sure everyone was secure inside before he took his place up beside the driver.. the carriage made its way through the outskirts.. into the city.. she had plenty to look at.. there was always something to see.. something new to witness.. he was having a bit of a laugh.. a bit of a chat with the driver about the goings on in the city.. especially this week.. before he took notice of.. well the slight commotion occurring every so often.. people were turning to look at the cart.. peculiar.. it wasn't new to see carriages taking the city route.. especially when there was a conference in town..

he glanced back.. catching a glimpse of her semi seated half out the window.. her long golden hair floating back as it caught the wind.. she was breath taking there was no doubt about it.. it all made sense then.. they were all looking upon the beauty within the cart.. in wonder at just who it was.. some new princess perhaps.. someone of high standing.. for if he were honest.. with the way she was currently dressed.. well she could run circles around anyone of high standing.. he just knew it.. he turned then back to the road ahead of him.. it was going to be an interesting few days.. they pulled up at the Inn there.. and he hopped down.. offering thanks to the driver.. paying what was owed before he drew open the doors and helped the ladies down the steps..the bags soon followed.. each to each.. until everyone was settled and the cart took off down the road to pick up its next load of visitors to the town.. he turned toward the Inn proper-.. This is where we will all be staying whilst we are here in Narius, its not fancy.. but its comfortable.. I believe.. if I am to understand correctly that the students will be sharing in groups of 2 with a maximum of three..Ill leave that up to you all to sort out who goes where.. I'm quite certain you will be capable of doing that..

-he plucked up his bag there and he motioned for them all to head down the path.. he followed along behind.. the gardens were a little here and there.. not quite as manicured as the ones back at the Manor.. but this here was more.. English styled.. when he finally got through the main doors most of the groups had headed up stairs to their rooms.. he remained at reception.. having a little chat with the owners.. settling the bill and the like.. this was where he stayed when he was in Narius.. they knew him well and referring to him by name.. he made short work of the stairs and found his room there.. in the corner.. allowing the door to close behind him.. it was small but had everything he needed.. a comfortable bed.. cupboard space.. a dresser.. bathroom.. he wasn't a prince.. he didn't require royal accommodations.. he unpacked his suit.. his books.. his smaller items .. placing them all out.. he hoped she was settling in ok.. he struggled a little .. she was on his mind a lot.. it would be rare for him to remember a moment where he was not thinking of her.. it made him smile.. it made him allow his thoughts to wander.. it made his fingers twitch remembering the softness of her skin.. it made him bite his lower lip.. remembering the taste of her kiss..

before he would exhale a soft breath.. dragging himself back into reality.. he made his way back out into the common hallway there.. catching a glimpse of her.. his lips parted a little..a drawn breath.. that dress was so beautiful in its simplicity.. it just suited her perfectly.. he headed down the stairs and into one of the side rooms there.. placing his books down.. he figured she needed to see him about something.. he felt her fingers upon his hand.. guiding him to her before he felt the folded paper pressed to his hand.. he was about to question what it was before his mind was more or less cut off by the feeling of her lips upon his own once more.. it stole his breath and he returned it softly before she drew back.. her whispers brushing to his lips before she was.. gone.. just like that.. he sagged back against the dresser a little.. she'd be the death of him.. he was sure of it..

he chuckled..glancing down to the note there.. he was about to open it before he heard his name being called..so he quickly slid it into his pocket and he headed out.. his books bundled up under his arm.. he was going to visit the original speaker of the conference.. deciding to grab the chance whilst everyone was doing their own thing..


The city of Narius was her oyster so to speak.. open and waiting for her to explore it.. she could pretty much go where she pleased.. it was growing a little later into the evening.. but everything would remain open until people headed off to bed.. the staff in the little bakery diner were extremely friendly.. polite.. well mannered.. the food impeccable.. they could tell she was a tourist and were making sure she had flyers and papers.. brochures and notices .. they even gave her a little map and a pen so she could mark down places she might like to visit whilst in town.. the flyer in amongst the paper should not have been there.. not really.. it would have been a targeted delivery.. namely for one of the young female staff members of the shop itself.. or.. maybe even the Mother.. afterall who didn't want their daughter married off to some eligible bachelor who had it would seem copious amounts of coin to his name.. one of the help would notice the flyer there.. and when you were turned it would be replaced by the one that belonged.. it was simply a flyer that spoke on the conference.. and how the speaker had been replaced by young Dr Jacob Anikin ..the student becoming the teacher.. the subjects that would be discussed.. and a shot of the lecture hall itself.. as wide and open as it was.. could easily hold a few hundred.. and then have room for even more people standing without problem.. perhaps that might help her understand his nerves a little more..


He had turned up at this Doctors house.. someone he would have classed as a friend.. his very own tutor.. Dr Barathon, he was permitted entrance to the home by one of the house maids.. offered tea and a few sweet biscuits as he waited for his friend to appear from the bedroom.. it would be then that he would remember the note.. reaching down into his pocket to procure it.. to draw it out.. it was small indeed.. folded over.. he was curious .. incredibly so.. his brows furrowed first at the couple of lines written on one side...something about tonight.. at midnight.. he went to take a sip of his tea there as he turned t over.. and he literally choked on that warmed sweet liquid.. enough for the help to have come out to question if he was ok.. he coughed and spluttered just a little.. taking up the napkin as he blotted his chin.. assuring the help that he was ok.. he simply breathed in at the wrong time.. his cheeks were a little redder than they should have been.. oh he was not expecting that.. not at all.. his heart took a few flips.. his toes curled under a little in his boots.. oh his mind was going to wander.. it was going to do it all on its own if he wasn't careful.. thankfully though it was all interrupted by the entrance of his tutor.. his old friend.. who looked frightfully worse for wear.. the eagerness.. the desire was soon replaced by concern and worry as he helped his friend sit back down.. and the two of them settled in for a long talk..


She would be handed the papers.. the brochures and maps.. all placed within a bag.. the owner of the store even slipped in the other flyer.. the one she had already read..he figured.. well she looked like a young pretty thing.. it made sense.. before she was sent on her way with a smile and a wave.. the ocean at this time of night would have looked beautiful.. with the sun setting in the far off distance.. the cool crisp sea breeze.. the warm soft sand.. and then the damper thickness as she got closer to the water.. the drunken gentleman didn't appear to want to give up in a hurry though.. he was out to harrass this beautiful blonde that happened upon 'his' stretch of beach.. clearly he was a little delusional.. she gave the portly man a good hard kick.. sending him flying to land on his ass as she ran for the stairs.. only to bump right into one of those city guards.. he had witnessed the whole thing.. -

.(Guard). Its alright Ma'am.. you're safe.. -he blew his whistle there.. it was sharp but not too terribly loud that it would hurt her being close.. two others came out and went down to collect the garbage so to speak.. frog marching him along the beach there and toward the carriage.. -.. Come.. please.. we need to have a bit of a talk about what just happened.. I'm guessing you are not from around here.. in for as large as this place is.. I dont believe I can place your face.. -he offered her a place in his carriage.. should she take it they would be on their way toward the station.. arriving soon there after.. it was clinical.. like the hospital back home.. desks.. offices.. guards and reception.. they werent terribly busy but they like every city.. dealt with their fair share of problems.. he motioned for her to take a seat there.. -.. Is there someone we can contact for you?.. We could get a messenger out.. get someone to come collect you?..

-it wasn't that the guard felt she was a weak little woman.. it was more that he knew it was a big city and she .. well looked a bit lost..he pulled out his note pad there.. asking her to give him a few details about what had occurred.. what had happened in her own words.. he had seen a lot of it.. having noticed this young pretty blonde walking down along the waters edge.. only to be followed by the portly gent.. he figured something was not quite right.. and he was pretty much on the money with that.. he listed.. nodding as she spoke.. -.. We dont have a lot..of this going on.. not really.. weve had a few celebrations recently.. and I have a feeling this is the aftermath of a bit of too much drinking and fun.. if you catch my drift.. allow me to apologise for this mans behaviour.. it was not right.. he will be held until he sobers up.. should you wish to press charges you need only let us know.. you are of course well within your right.. -if she had of sent a message off to the Inn for Jacob for example.. they would get no reply.. he had stepped out and hadn't been seen for the better part of the afternoon/evening.. Faelon on the other hand would appear a little while..he was dressed a little more casually.. though a long formal coat kept him looking sharp.. she might have caught the sounds of his voice.. his slight accent there from reception as he enquired as to where she was.. before the guard with her would call out.. and she would be free to leave.. with the guards card of course.. the ability to contact him should she require it..Faelon looked.. well.. a little amused.. he even laughed a little..

his arms crossing there about his chest as he waited for her to approach him-..(F) Weve been in Narius now for all of.. mmm.. maybe 4 hours.. and you've already ended up in the cop shop.. -he tutted there.. giving a little shake of his head..-.. what ever are we going to do with you Rose?..-he was playing with her of course.. just a little light hearted banter as he opened the door for her.. allowing her to head out first.. it was dark out now.. the street lanterns had all been lit.. the moon was high in the sky.. people were still dotted about.. but it wasn't near as busy as it had been.. a chill in the air send bundles of leaves scattering when the wind blew.. just here and there.. he unbuttoned his overcoat there.. -.. You're alright though yes?.. I heard a little of what had happened.. I wont ask for details of course.. but.. the concerns there.. naturally.. -he placed his coat upon her shoulders.. he wouldn't accept it back.. even if she tried.. he was a gentleman.. he'd been brought up right.. it would be warm.. scented of books and leather.. of cigarette and bourbon.. -.. the girls and I are going to be eating in at the house.. you're welcome to join us if you want.. entirely up to you.. i think they did a little exploring.. but nothing of any grand scale.. everyones got tomorrow afterall to wander till their hearts content.. -the time would be settling around 9pm... -.. Im impressed with the way you are helping Kit out by the way.. -he nodded as they walked a little ways and he hailed a carriage over.. helping her up into it before he settled just across from her.. the doors closed-.. she's got potential.. a lot of it.. if she's steered in the right direction.. I cant say the same for the other two.. but its not my place to ship them off.. thats up to Rincavornon and the board.. though.. when it comes to their share study.. they'l probably find me a harsh task master.. -he shrugged a little-.. i find myself hard yes.. but fair.. I dont want to see a Doctor that hesitates.. I dont want to see a nurse even that is confused.. sharp wit.. quick thinking.. intelligence.. initiative.. I need to see all of this before I will pass anyone in their exams.. -his hands came to rest upon his lap there-.. you have nothing to worry about.. -he waved his hand a little dismissivley.. they arrived at the Inn.. he stepped down and helped her out and back onto the pavement..

walking a step or two behind her as they both moved back into the awaiting warm grasp of the Inn proper.. the girls were all seated about one of the longer wooden tables in the restaurant area.. bowls of rice.. pasta.. various meats and fish were all settled in the middle of the table.. empty plates at the other.. everyone was simply there to help themselves.. ..The owner enquired as to wether a plate should be kept for Dr Anakin.. as he had not returned as of yet.. leaving it up to the guests to decide..

the food was hearty.. lacking just a little seasoning.. at least for those with well formed palates.. maybe that was something she could help with.. a quick word or two with the cooks would have their food the best in Narius.. one by one they filtered back up to their rooms.. a few remained down before the wide open fireplace.. toasting marshmallows and having little chats over study and text.. Ellen and Luna had gone out for the evening.. perhaps seeking out their next lucrative catch.. there were a LOT of doctors in town afterall.. some having travelled a very.. very long way.. lanterns were drawn low.. many were tucked away in their beds..

the hour settling closer to half past 11 before he would make his way back through those front double doors.. he didn't actually say a word to anyone.. not a single soul.. even ignoring those that had offered greetings on his way past.. he just made his way upstairs like he was on auto pilot.. drawing his door closed behind him as he sunk down on the chair before his desk.. his elbows upon it.. his fingers interlaced against the back of his neck as he exhaled long and deeply.. something had gotten to him.. something had dragged him down.. the hour would have clocked over.. midnight.. maybe even a few minutes after.. if she'd gone to him.. to his room she'd find the door unlocked.. though upon entering.. the room would be dark.. the only light coming from a small almost completely exhausted candle at his beside.. and he was still seated at the desk.. semi hunched.. his head down.. his breath hitched audibly every so often.. he knew she was there though.. her own personal sweet scent floated through and caressed his senses..-. I'm sorry Rose.. I'm probably not the best company right now.. -his voice was strained.. a little pitchy.. he was incredibly tense.. and he'd actually been crying-

[BadInfluence]

Some women might not enjoy the act they had shared there in that moment, some might have used it as a tool to create leverage or to get a desired gift or treat, but her? She had done it simply for the pleasure of it, because she had enjoyed her little sample before so much that she needed it, wanted to finish off an entire course rather than just a nibble… It was better than she could have ever thought, even though the corners of her smile ached deliciously from the stretch, even if her throat felt a little sore from how often she had taken him to the hilt in her hunger… Oh it was one of the most amazing things in her life, the taste of his skin on her tongue the whole time, the smell of his natural musk coming up to flood her senses; growing stronger the more aroused he became… It was better than a drug, this was more than just an addiction, this was a virtual necessity for life itself. Like breathing or eating, she needed to please him, to take him in her mouth and drive him to that peak where he lost control and gave into his own pleasure… It even sent her off on her own orgasm, the combination of pleasing him so intimately and the taste of his tongue, the act on the whole so arousing to her it urged her own release in tandem with his. The whine he made though, that was incredibly lush, making her lick her lips with the soft kitten pink tip of her tongue. “How could I not when seeing you pleasured, tasting your release on my tongue like that, it’s the most erotic thing ever to me?” Oh yes… She loved it very, very much, and she was sincere when she asked if she could do it again… Cradled there in his arms, warm and safe, his heart beating like a wild tribal drum beat under her ear… Their foreheads touching was softly intimate to her, like a kiss without the actual touching of lips, something very personal and open… Hearing his laughter and response, her own lips curling in a smile, a nibble on her bottom lip. “Good because I plan to repeat that… Often…” She said promisingly before he kissed her, letting her float and drow in his taste all over again, her head just getting more and more fuzzy… Wrapped in soft cotton wool… Her fingers curling into his hair as she stayed flush to him, giving herself up to him, as drunk on him as he was on her… That whistle that rent the air did shatter their moment a little bit and they both ended up laughing at it, it seemed they were just that sort of fated set, their moments amazing but small before the world broke in with their own egg timer demon.



She asked after tonight, a sort of repeat, a round two if you would… The want, the need to be pressed against him under the sheets, to feel his skin against hers without all these layers of clothing… It was her own secret obsession and one she wanted to indulge in quite frequently. She heard his response and the best part of it was that it wasn’t a no, or a maybe, but more of one of those… We have to see if we actually can… The want was there… For both of them… That was its own sweet reward for her and one she would gladly take. “Mmhmm… I’ll see you when I can then…” She said just a bit coyly before he snagged another kiss to her forehead, earning another warm bubbly laugh from her, she honestly loved it when he did that… “Keep that up and you’ll end up taking the last piece of my heart…” She said adoringly before she left, knowing all too well why they had to split off, God knew there was more than a few harpies here to make it a complete and utter hell if they didn’t. On the way up she spotted some ideal moss growing on the rock covered roots of a willow, gathering up a few samples with gentle thanks to the plant for it and finishing her trip up, seeing Kit waiting for her and she waved her hand. She explained how moss had several great uses and was incredibly versatile stuff before Kit asked if she wanted to bunk together, and honestly it sounded like a great idea, they could study together in their down time and it also allowed them to keep the witches out of the pot so to speak. It was some minutes later after she and Kit were in the carriage, going over the moss and showing her the references in several books to the uses of it when Faelon hollered for Jacob, her head tilting up to look out the window to see him jogging over. Good cover, she thought, there was no way anyone would place them together down there doing something a little naughty. He was lightly ribbed as he got into the carriage and they all set off together once more, on their way to this big new adventure she was waiting to have…



She could NOT resist the teasing of him though, Dr. Faelon had started it and it was far too easy to pick up the thread and run with it, but mostly because she knew he took it so well and it would make him laugh. The flowers were pretty and useful, and she gave him an added layer of cover by admitting she was using his personal stock of herbs, so keeping them replaced and topped off was a good idea with a trainee after all. She did get him just a bit with the Nymph there, after all they did exist on this side of the magical world too, and it was far too much fun not to rib him with it just a little… Especially given the fact they had been doing just what a wood nymph would have if she had stumbled upon Jacob there all alone and too tempting a treat to pass up. His response had her giggling and she shook her head, wagging her finger at him, a little bit of a wink there. “Shaaame on you! Did you at least find her little treasure chest? I heard every nymph has a chest full of trinkets and treasures she finds in the woods or off of the men she’s taken special likings to. Sadly, I’ll never see one, since boy nymphs aren’t real… We will just have to wait for someone to tell us about it, won’t we Kit?” She said playfully, bringing Kit into the teasing a little, hoping she would learn from this… That you could have fun with people and not have it be charged in any way other than simply for warm and happy fun. They all started to get in on then and she teased him just a bit more, watching him laughing and Dr. Faelon joining in, everyone having a good time in the carriage there. She pretended to look offended, almost injured at his words, huffing and tilting her head to the side in a dramatic pose. “Trouble on the horizon! Pah! I am not trouble…” She said, turning to look at him with a wink and a smile. “I’m a storm.” She said teasingly and blushed when Dr. Faelon stepped in, covering her cheeks with her hands as she just laughed all the more, shaking her head. “Oh goodness! Dr. Faelon! That sounds so terribly bad! Like some piece of very naughty cake for someone who abstains too long and too often.” She said with a shake of her head before she would point to Kit beside her. “Now our Kit here, she’s the real trouble! She’s got so much potential buried under her shell that she’d going to knock us all flat on our bottoms, just you watch, she’s going to shock everyone and morph into this beautiful smart butterfly.” Warm and sincere, she meant it, already she could see Kit tossing off the told way of her life… Struggling out of the cocoon she had bene living in because her life didn’t give her the room to grow, and now deep inside that mysterious place inside Kit, she was starting her transformation. Growing and changing, learning new habits and throwing away old ones, finally giving herself the chance to be who she wanted to be… Whoever it was she knew it would be everything Kit wanted it to be and more, and in this instance, she was happy to pour her energies into it to help it along. Everyone needs a friend, everyone needs help, and right now all Kit needed more than anything else in the world was a light… A chance to see the world around her rather than fumbling about in the dark…



Between the little tryst in the woods, the soft lulling rock of the carriage and the fatigue that still lingered from the night before she ended up drifting off there with her head against the carriage wall, unaware she had even fallen asleep let alone anything else. She would probably end up taking several little cat naps over the next few days to fully top off her stores, this just the first of many, though most would be between adventures in the room she would be sharing with Kit. She dozed all the way to the end, the whistle and stopping motion of the carriage gently pulling her awake, sitting up and blinking a bit logged… She blushed a bit when she realized what had happened and apologized to Kit for dozing off on her, hearing the smile in Kits response when she said it was fine, she managed to study on her own a bit perfectly ok. They all got out then and she found the smell in the place new and unique, out of place with so many things she was used to smelling, like earth and rain and growing things… This was salty… Rich… Complex… It made her curious. She wondered about what he had said, asking a few small questions, after all this wasn’t the every day typical sort of fence around a city… This was almost like an armada wall… Jacobs answer did help more than a little to sort out the why and it made sense, something as rich as this location was? Would have been begging to be have been hit well across the open spaces. Like candy in a dish just begging to be taken. She blushed softly when he took her bag for her and she tried to bite down the smile, failing as it caught up anyways and was flashed at him, something small and sweet as they headed to the gate. Once they were inside though… That’s when things got bad for her… Quick. She wanted out. Immediately… The cold closed space, she couldn’t feel the earth or the sky, just trapped in stone… In her head she heard a child’s voice calling to please let her out… Her panic was rising before there was a sudden arrival of light and the ghosts vanished, the fear and almost palatable terror were gone in a moment and she settled down, following the group out to the other end. As the view then opened up around her she was completely and totally ensorcelled, it was more than any dream could have every compared, and the view of the sea there… Wide… Vast… Bluer than any stone or flower and as mysterious as the stars, glittering like a thousand diamonds as the sun began to set over it, painting it up like topaz, citrine and ruby over a blue silk cloth… She didn’t believe in heaven like the humans did, for her it would never be a place she went, elves went… Somewhere else, she know that much if nothing more, but if… If for one moment she was allowed to glimpse that place humans longed for, she could easily say a place like this had to be a part of it, it was too beautiful not to… She was reluctant to get back into another carriage, the city was calling her name and she wanted to get out there, to let her feet hit the pavement and go exploring. She went in with the rest like everyone else though, but she honestly couldn’t sit still, she wanted to be… To be a part of it…



Jacob had the kings seat there on the bench with the driver, and since she couldn’t fit up there without sitting in someone’s lap, she went for the next best thing… The window. She was short enough to fit in the open space quite comfortable, and since she was rather slight of figure she was easily there without taking up much of the view at all, though those inside were too busy talking to look. But her? She wanted to take as much in as she could, taking in all the sights and smells, the sound of music flitting on the air… She had wondered if they would, if music was a part of this city and if people danced, what sort of food they might have and what the people were like… She saw a world of everything in each category, food places such as delicatessens and bakeries, cake shops and stands that sold exotic fruit from far across the sea… Others held spices she could smell from far away, things like curry powder and hot chili powder, coriander and saffron… She was just in love with it all, watching the children playing which made her laugh and smile, giving little waves to them as they passed by and looked up… Their mothers all well dressed, their fathers back home from a long day at work, some with a pipe and some with a pint… Young couples strolling along the boulevard, hand in hand, sometimes sneaking covert little kisses when they thought no one was looking… Some of the establishment doors were open to let the cooler sea air float through, and inside she could see glittering lights and flashing jewles, beautifully dressed women and handsome men… Oh how she wanted to go dancing, perhaps she might be able to sneak Jacob away for a dinner one night, a chance to get away and maybe enjoy a melody or two… She did find it odd at the little commotions here and there, honestly in her mind she was still just short Rose with baggy clothes who no one noticed, quiet and blending into the wallpaper… Anouk had changed a big chunk of that… Jacob the other… Together they were giving her own sort of chrysalis to break out of and she wasn’t familiar with who she saw in the mirror… Not really.. Parts of her were still there but there were other parts too, a new woman who had a look of confidence and mystique, who’s unusual features were beautiful instead of just odd… That woman looked back at her in the mirror this morning and had shocked her, because under the surface, she was still Rose… Just…



Rose In Love…



She had to admit that to herself as she watched the world pass by, unaware and unseeing of the people who noticed her, instead she just relished the sights. When they pulled up to the Inn though she felt the same sort of reclusiveness she had when she first arrived at the Manse, causing her to slip back inside, to hide a touch… For some reason her and big houses didn’t agree, and while she had loved it when seeing the city, just coming up to one to stay always gave her a feeling of… Trepidation… Once they were all out though she settled it back and took the bag as it was handed to her, she and Kit making their way up to the room of her choice, and while it was snug it was still quite nice. Easily comfortable. She helped Kit unpack as well as doing some herself, setting the two fancy dresses she had brought out on their hangers to set on pegs in the wall, the rest easily slipped, neat and folded into the dresser. She took the smaller one at the bottom since Kit was taller, the two getting along quite easily now when before it had been more like cheese and chalk, which made her truly happy to be honest. She enjoyed the change, it made her happy for Kit in a lot of ways, seeing that there was so much more to the girl than what had rested on the surface. She was a beautiful girl yes, things about her made a man want to do all sorts of things with her, but under that sexual appeal? There was a brain, a woman with a good heart and who really, truly just wanted to be loved and allowed to be herself. She pointed out the gardens to Kit that they were often a good place to study, at least for her because people weren’t loud in them for one, and two? The light was always good. She also said tomorrow for Kit to take some time aside for lunch, she wanted to go exploring with her in the city and find a place to eat and just talk, to get to know her… If Kit was ok with that… Which was greeted by Kits small shy smile and a nod, and after that, well she was just itching to go explore. She got changed and put her used clothes away in a separate pile, folded and neat as the rest of her things, and slipped into the beautiful but far more relaxed royal blue dress. It was transparent in some places, just the finest netting of silk chiffon, the rest more solid as it fit low on her bust and tight around down to her waist before it flared out in the most beautiful of ruffled layers that floated around her like a flower’s petals. She loved this dress, it was one of her favorites that Anouk and she had picked out, and with the matching flats she was out of that room in a flash. She looked around a bit for Jacob, wondering where he might have drifted off to, smelling the scents of dinner cooking while she searched… It took her a little bit admittedly but she did find him, catching his gaze and leading him down stairs to one of the private areas, no one was in them and it allowed them to share a moment out of the public eye… She took his hands the moment he came down to her, slipping the paper into his hand before she got on her toes, pressing a soft adoring kiss over his lips… Melting into him for just another sweet flash before she would slip away, telling him he could find her, or he could wait for her… And then she left… Letting him stand there in wonder, a little rocked by her kiss, just… Something for him to think about before she went off on her grand little adventure. She made sure to tell them at the front desk that she was on her way out and that she would be back, she wasn’t about to interrupt anyone’s schedule, she was far too considerate of that.



She followed her nose to her first destination, easily dancing out of the conversations of young men who noticed her, and they were kind… They really were… After all how else do you get the attention of a young woman if you don’t go and talk to her? So she understood in in that much, though she had no idea why in the world they were interested in her, a city of this size had to have flowers of every variety for them to pluck. Why go for a Daisy in a place that was surely full of orchids and irises? She found the little diner/bakery and she was utterly smitten, the rolls were the best she had ever had before, and that cinnamon butter was sinful and should be a crime to have, it was too good to be legal. She enjoyed it all thoroughly and happily chatted with the owners and workers there, gladly taking their notes on the best places to see, who else would know better than a local? She took all of this in stride, along with the map they handed her with places circled so she could find them easily, and it was as she went through those papers she saw it… Someone might have left it behind in the paper… One of the girls on her break perhaps… But one way or the other she had stumbled upon it and it made her brow rise there in question, either this was some sort of an elaborate ruse, or it was real… But if it was? Why? Jacob wasn’t a dog, not by any means, and if he was wealthy? Then he could easily have his pick of the litter so these flyers… They made no sense to her. However… It would make sense for the female populace to be ah… Made aware of a tasty fish in their coastal waters so to speak. She got up to get another cup of tea when the flyer was replaced and she wondered at all of that then, surely she hadn’t seen it? But then again today had been all sorts of wild and she HAD fallen asleep in the carriage… Maybe her eyes were just a little strained from all the reading at a rushed pace lately? She looked over the new one and once she saw the hall, she definitely understood how he could be nervous, but it didn’t make her want to rescind what she had said to him. It was ok to be afraid, completely, it would help drive him to succeed in that place… But she also fully believed he could do it, no matter how big the place was, she had complete faith in him… But that didn’t mean she had it in herself… She’d be in a room of hundreds, and she was sure more than half of them would think she was too blond, short or female to be there… Nothing new… But it made her a little nervous too now. Still, she was going there to learn and she would, she would be too busy making and taking notes to notice anyone but Jacob there.



Once she had finished eating and paid her bill, she graciously and gratefully took the bag with all the information, smiling warmly at then and thanking them with beautiful manners. The orphanage had trained her for this sort of stuff, how to be charming and lovely in company, to garner peoples affections and to blend in well with polite society… Which was why they all swore she was touched in the head when she never showed a drop of it before now… Well… Outside of Jacob… She took the bag of papers and slipped them into her purse, intent on making her way down to the sea, to tread on the cooler sands and meet this new thing… This great body of water that made her want so badly to explore and see where it ended… The sands were surprisingly warm despite the setting sun, something that made her laugh and skip about from hot patch to hot patch, making her way to the cool thicker sands where the waves began to creep up onto the shore. She was playing tag with the waves, chancing them back and forth, unaware she had someone… Two someone’s… Watching her. It looked like she was dancing the way she moved, her rich bright laughter floating up into the air, which was probably what encouraged the drunken man to ah… Well take his chances… Did she blame him? Not really, she knew what alcohol did to people, and living under a brothel for a few months she definitely knew it made them randy, but it didn’t give him an excuse for his behavior… She was still upset about it, having told him no more than once and even using hand signals to tell him hey, back off… When he came up and grabbed her bum some women would have slapped him… She grew up with a ton of boys so a slap was laughable… No she did what any smart woman does when sexually accosted, and what she would have done to Rincavornon if she hadn’t been a bit drunk and utterly exhausted… She kicked the portly fellow right in the family jewels and punched him right in the nose, not hard enough to break it, but enough to make him see stars… Surely enough to make him seriously question another attempt at her person. She ran for the stairs then, shoes in her hand as she took the steps two at a time, realizing she was in a different area, these weren’t the ones she came down… Only to bowl right into a city guard, contacting with an ooof and a step back, blinking up at what she had run into. She blinked in surprise, unsure what in the world was going on, after all she’d never once run into the guards back home… She just sort of stood there in silence for a moment, her ears twitching at the whistle, looking over her shoulder to see the man lifted and marched off the beach… Oh hell… What did she do?! She looked up at the guard and felt a sinking in her stomach, thinking that she was going to be in trouble, charged with assault and have to pay a fine… And all just a couple of hours in the city… Sure… Great way to make an entrance! “Yes, Sir, I’m sorry… I’m here for the Lecture…” She wasn’t dumb enough to give up more than that though, haha hell no, she wasn’t going to give them any ammo to fire at her. She would follow him up into the carriage as they made their way back to the station, her fingers clutching her bag as she worked on keeping her face a very serene and neutral mask, but her heart was thudding in a very unpleasant way… She followed him out of the carriage then and into the building, seeing a few little things here and there, but nothing too much… For a city so large it was very peaceful… She settled into the offered seat there and she bit her bottom lip, afraid of getting her group in trouble because of her, but at the same time she knew she needed to get back to the Inn… “Dr. Anikin or Dr. Faelon at the Inn would be able to come and get me if you feel it is necessary…” She stated simply.



When he began to ask her what had happened she didn’t embellish or made big dues about it, she stated in very simple, straight forward words exactly what had occurred. Some women would boo-hoo or make so much ado about it but she was so far from that sort of person that it might as well be the distance between the world and the sun. She paused as he spoke, stating this wasn’t normal and she could figure as much, she didn’t think this was exactly a common every day occurrence. However when he asked if she wanted to press changes her brows rose and she looked at him with her head tilted a bit… “He might have handled my um… Bottom… But I did ah… Well… Damage him a bit…” Her hand still throbbed and would probably be more than a little tender tomorrow, but luckily she could still write with it, something she was grateful for. She wouldn’t miss much at all, she would most likely be healed up in plenty of time for the lecture, which was her main concern. “I think his injuries and soreness tomorrow are going to remind him to mind his hands a lot more than a fine will, don’t you agree? Besides, I am sure that while it isn’t common here, I’m not the first or last girl to be fondled by someone under the influence but… Thank you, for the offer, it’s very kind.” She was charming without meaning to, a sort of wry humor and sharp witt there, and the fact she was uninterested in making a scene or having a fit. Plus it saved on a lot of paper work for everyone involved. She was sitting there, waiting for what came next when she heard Dr. Faelons voice and she both blushed and went a little pale, her fingers curling tightly into her purse. “Oh no…” Anyone but Faelon! Not the doctor who she admired and thought so much of?! THE doctor?! Oh God… She saw him come up to retrieve her and her head dropped, that blush just glowing on her cheeks as she walked to his side demurely, completely embarrassed as if it were her father coming to get her. “In my defense I did ask him to bugger off more than once…” She said but she could catch his humor, the fact he wasn’t upset in the slightest, instead he was teasing her about it. They left and the wind off the ocean was colder than she had ever expected before, shivering the instant it hit her, wrapping her arms around her. She looked up at the moon, how absolutely huge it was here so close to the water, how different the sky was… She felt him place his warm coat over her shoulders and she blushed, smiling up at him and thanking him, drawing it close in around her as she walked with him. “I’m alright, it was just very irritating to get my bum groped by some portly drunk person… All I wanted to do was play in the water a little… But if you’re worried about me, you should see him, I punched him right in the nose.” She said with a nod, able to take care of herself for the most part at least, and given Faelon was a man? She wasn’t about to mention that she kicked the other fellow in the nuts, every man has that sympathy pain, and she wasn’t about to trigger that for him. She nodded her head when he offered that she could eat with him and his group at the table, unsure of what Kit was doing but she was pretty sure it was going to be ok with they both came down, a soft laugh coming out. “I’ve never seen the ocean before today, I don’t think I could wait, I wanted to go down and see it up close right away.” She said before he hailed a carriage, taking his assistance up into it as they talked in the silence, her head turned towards the window there. “Kit I think was really abused as a child and I think she resorted to sex to fix everything because it was all she knew… Take her away from that negative environment she can do so much more, learn a world that’s new and healthy, a chance to really become who she wants to be… Being around Luna and Ellen won’t help her, those two are rotten to their core and are only in the program to try and land a doctor for a husband or do something to earn pocket change, and by God I hope neither of them graduates or ropes in some poor fool… They make me ashamed of my sex when I see people like that…” She shook her head, stroking her fingers over her bag for a moment, looking up to him for a moment when he said she had nothing to worry about and she just smiled. “I like you too, thank you for saying so.” She teased him back a little before they arrived. “But really… I do like you a good deal as a Doctor and a Person, your incredible at what you do, and serving under you was an incredible moment of my life. I will gladly help you out anytime, anywhere, and I look forward to the moments I get to learn from you.” She said before they got out and she made her way inside with him after he helped her down, handing him back his jacket after they got in.



She saw all the food out on the table and tilted her head a bit, thinking it was so close to being really good, but it was… Underdone… She could tell by the smells that it could use a dash of something like dill for the fish or some garlic and crab roe in the rice, the pasta needed a little heat… A touch of spice… “Oh yes please, I will bring him one up, I believe he said he wanted to work on some preparation.” She said and would settle down with the rest, setting her up a plate and began to note what could use some changes, what needed a little dressing up… She took her plate to the kitchen then with a warm smile and asked to talk to the cook, explaining her position at the orphanage and offering a little bit of advice, and taking what was on her plate and what he had on hand, she shifted everything around until it was so delicious a person would eat themselves sick on it and still go for thirds… She left plenty of notes for the cook, coming back out to season things for those eating, the cook and her having a good time over it. Comparing and pointing things out, bits of laughter and comments while those who were there began to eat and quite heartily too. That food there slowly began to vanish where before it might have been enough left out for day overs, but instead everyone was packing on the food while the cook took notes… Within a few months the place would be the most chosen Inn in all of the city, it would be a jewel in the town of Narius, which would have made her very happy for them. In her mind though? This was just about helping the food taste good, she had a love of cooking and for her this was a way to show her thanks and appreciation, a way to share a little joy with the world. She then set a plate up on the side for Jacob while she sat down to her own dinner, and all of them ended up getting along splendidly. Even Kit who used to be seen as something of a persona non grata was taken in and when Dr. Faelon’s girls realized she had a brain and potential, oh God did the conversation take off. Between the lot of them the words flew over the food as they compared notes and theories, some getting a little heated but never rude, others so in line thought wise it was awesome to listen to. Kit ended up making two friends with the girls in his group, and they all chatted while she herself slowly began to draw off. She went to get her books and came back down to study for another hour or so, most of the group slowly spilling off, Kit heading up herself while only a few last stragglers remained for marshmallows and conversations. She was several chapters in with a few more detailed drawings in her book when Jacob came in, and it was clear to her that something was wrong, something that made her draw short… She paused… Giving enough time between his arrival and her moving to keep anyone for noticing anything… She stood and made her way back to her room and changed out of her dress while Kit slept soundly, pulling on a semi-transparent top over her bare skin, the scallped edges trimmed in gold thread with a pair of matching shorts… She slipped out, careful that the whole house was silent and no one would see her, making her way to his room up the sitars and down the hall from her own. She quietly slipped into his room and locked the door behind him, the scent of his cologne already in the air, along with the scent of salt… The sounds he was making… His breath… The way he was hunched over… She instantly made her way over to him and just wrapped her arms around him tightly, holding him in her arms like she could put all his broken pieces back together, shaking her head. “You’re the only company I ever want… Come on…” She would say gently, guiding him from his chair and helping him out of his clothes, leaving him in his shorts before bringing him over his bed, turning the bedding down before gently guiding him to sit… She didn’t give him much option, she wasn’t going to let him try and stay alone when he was obviously in a lot of pain, and because of that she was going to take care of him… She would turn the lights low, leaving just a low lamp on the side of the bed, curling up beside him then… She sat up in the bed, guiding him into her arms so his head would rest over her breasts, her fingers starting to stroke through his hair just as she had last night when he had been unconscious and in pain.



“You don’t have to talk… I won’t ask… But if you want to I am here… I’m listening… I’m not going to leave I promise…” She said gently, her lips coming down to press over the crown of his head, fingers soothing as they traced through his hair… Her breathing soft… Even… Calming… Her heart still skittered and raced around him that would never stop, he made her far too weak and happy for it to ever mellow out, but everything else was soothing… Everything he might want or need to help him cope with this pain he was feeling, this new sorrow resting on his soul, the blot on his heart… She wouldn’t speak until he did, and if he just chose to remain silent, to curl into her arms then she would sing for him again, a different song this time, something warm… Sweet.. “Hush now, my storeen, close your eyes and sleep… Waltzing the waves, diving the deep.. Stars are shining bright, the wind is on the rise, whispering words of long lost lullabies… Oh wont you come with me? Where the moon is made of gold… And in the morning sun we’ll be sailing… Oh won’t you come with me, where the ocean meets the sky, and as the clouds roll by, we’ll sing the song of the sea…” Her voice was sweet and warm, gentle against his ears, soothing as it sought to ease away his pain… TO just make the burden a little lighter… “I had a dream last night, and heard the sweetest sound… I saw a great white light and dancers in the round, castles in the sand, cradles in the trees… Don’t Cry… I’ll see you By and By… Oh wont you come with me? Where the moon is made of gold, and in the morning sun we’ll be sailing… Oh wont you come with me, where the ocean meets the sky, and as the clouds roll by, we’ll sing the song of the sea…” She would let the melody slowly fade into quiet before she would look down at him there, stroking his hair back off his brow, gently wiping away any tears that might be there.. “Want me to go with you tomorrow?...” She said softly, figuring the person he had gone to visit was the one who had fallen sick, the one that must have been why he was hurting so much… It had to have been why he was so tore up inside… And honestly, while her plans for a night of love making, of becoming his lover… They were still wants, but right now her needs were easily put away and her desire to help him, to care for him easily outweighed everything else. “I blended some tea just for him, I have the tin in my bag, we can bring it to him tomorrow… I’ll even make him some cinnamon rolls… I’m sure between us we can watch him smile…” Humans were so fragile it wasn’t a surprise to her to know his sickness had progressed to a level of near fatality, but that was what it meant to be mortal, to have such a small moment to shine… Losing a friend was painful and she could understand how his heart must ache.. “I think he would really like to see you happy and remembering all the good times you shared and how much he means to you, rather than seeing you sad about something that is just a part of life… Which I am sure he would tell you the same if he knew how much your heart was hurting for him right now… But in this moment…” She said softly, reaching up to stroke her fingers down his cheek softly, kissing his forehead as he had done hers. “Right now if you need to cry… You can cry… If you need to scream then scream… Get it out… I’m right here… I promise I will always be right here…”

[Deleted]

..Fealon had rocked up to the police guard station there in the middle of the city.. did he honestly expect to see her across the way.. mmm.. well.. maybe.. it wasn't a definite no that was for sure.. he knew she was a touch on the cheeky side.. he had no idea what had occurred however.. seeing her pulling into herself there.. clearly a touch embarrassed.. he couldn't help the laugh that spilled forth.. tutting at her when she was released into his care.. so to speak.. the pair of them stepping out onto the darkened street.. he withdrew his jacket then.. sliding it around her shoulders as they walked toward one of the carriages.. he enquired as to how she was.. making sure she was indeed ok.. nodding at her explanation of what occurred.. that this gent.. whoever it was got a little to familiar with her backside.. before she nudged him.. a little forcefully away.. the guards were about... and naturally the events turned in the direction they did.. -.. I have been here.. quite a few times.. much like Jacob I did a Lot of training in the Narius hospital.. somewhere that I believe you will be visiting tomorrow.. its extremely well equipped and very busy.. It will open your eyes a little to the workings of it.. everything on a much larger scale.. -he opened the carriage door for her.. helping her up and into it before he himself settled also..they spoke about Kit then.. for a little bit.. he offered his thoughts on the young woman.. along with his.. well judgement on Ellen and Luna.. rubbing his chin a little-.. I dont like to make early judgements on students.. though on occasion I feel its.. something that cant really be avoided.. I truly dont see them getting very far.. the first round of testing usually weeds out the bad apples.. so to speak.. the ones that arent here for the right reasons.. the ones that arent quite up to speed.. the ones that just arent the right fit.. sometimes a student can be intelligent.. smart.. switched on.. but.. it just doesn't work.. -he clicked his fingers-.. there's a switch in there.. -tapping to the side of his head-.. that turns on for some when pressure rises.. and turns off in others.. we dont have room for those that buckle.. not in this profession.. -he motioned to her.. speaking on his admiration.. before she spoke complimentary of him.. he offered a nod od his head-.. I appreciate the kind words Rose.. Like I said in the hospital that morning.. you are welcome to come jump onto my team anytime.. I did offer you a place..

-which if she had been paying attention over the past few days.. it had been said more than once that his team was full.. he would not take on anymore.. but.. he was still offering her a position.. he was more than prepared to take her on.. thats how much promise he felt she had.. he wanted her on his team.. they arrived at the Inn there and he helped her out.. offering her a place at the table with him and the girls when it was time for their late dinner.. the two of them entering the warmed grasp of the grand old house.. the scent of food.. of firewood and candles floated about.. idle chatter easily caught.. the plates were placed upon the table along with the bowls of food.. different types.. meats and vegetables.. rices and breads.. all warmed.. a little on the bland side.. but still.. it would sit well in the belly on cool night like this one.. the desk girl asked if someone would be taking a plate for Dr Anakin.. wether or not he would be back since he had not returned from his wanderings yet..

they offered her a smile when she spoke on him working on preparations for the conference.. the cook was standing in the kitchen there.. stirring an oversized pot.. a smile upon his cheery face.. an apron about his portly middle.. he was clearly dwarven.. a little on the shorter side.. but someone that when you were around them you just felt.. lighter.. that he hadn't a care in the world.. he was eager to hear her advice.. having not done a great deal with the spices and herbs she suggested.. though when he tasted what she put together..well his smile couldn't have gotten any wider.. he hollered out to the owner of the Inn then.. watching the couple enter the kitchen.. they were elvish.. most notably wood..soft features.. wiry frames.. curious at the changes that were being suggested before they too were able to sample them.. and the smiles.. the clapping..

Oh they were impressed with this young woman.. this student doctor.. telling her she would be welcome back Anytime.. at no cost.. before she was able to head back out to the table with everyone else.. the additions were made to the food and everyone tucked in as if they hadn't eaten in weeks.. Faelons girls weren't ravishing beauties.. they were each very different.. 3 of them in total.. one with the reddest shoulder length curls.. freckles upon her nose.. glasses that were perhaps a little too big that tended to slide down .. she looked like she'd make a good librarian, if one were to judge her on looks alone..there was a short dark haired girl with asian features.. and one with white hair.. it was almost pure.. not a single shade of colour.. a tight pixie cut.. lean sharp features.. she was taller than all the other girls in the Manor.. quiet though.. almost shy.. she was often there with her arms filled with books.. barely said a peep.. though at the table here.. everyone seemed so incredibly comfortable..

they all had a good laugh.. shared notes.. advice and opinions.. and whilst yes.. some topics got a little heated it never fell into arguments.. just agreeing to disagree.. putting it all down to science.. the food was soon finished..the bowls taken.. plates retrieved... a few bottles of wine and glasses rested there in its place.. for all to take their fill.. some turned in for the night.. Kit being one of them.. a few remained before the open hearth.. toasting marshmallows and going over the texts that Faelon had instructed them to read.. Ellen and Luna kept to themselves.. not interacting with the group at all.. even at supper when they all sat at a larger table.. those two segregated themselves.. to sit at another.. their eyes would be felt upon her though.. just.. now and then.. before they headed up stairs and dissappeared behind one of the doors.. the room fell quiet.. not complete silence.. but close enough to it.. you could make out the popping coming from the wood in the firesplace.. the soft sounds of wind in the chimney ..

so when he entered through the front doors the creaking coming from the hinges sounded enough to alert those in the sitting room there was someone there.. he didn't stop however.. he didn't even turn to regard anyone.. or even say goodnight.. off behaviour for someone who is generally quite friendly to everyone.. his face was a little red.. he looked utterly shattered.. making short work of those stairs then as he slipped up to the level where his room was.. disappearing within.. the lights were low.. just a single almost expired candle.. and he sunk down at his desk.. head down.. hands behind his neck.. he knew what time it was.. it was late.. and her note had not been forgotten.. he knew she would be around at some point.. so her approach into his bedroom did not go unnoticed.. his breath hitched though.. his voice a little shaky..telling her he was not the best company right now.. and he was being honest.. he was a wreck..

his breath caught when instead of leaving she went to him.. wrapping her arms around him.. he turned in to her.. his forehead to her stomach there as his shoulders just trembled.. he was growing upset.. visibly so as his own tears lightly fell to land upon her small bare feet.. he listened to her when she said he was the only company she wanted.. and to come.. before she tried to get him to rise.. and he did.. he slowly moved to stand.. but he didn't go for the bed.. he looked to her there.. in the flickering low lighting.. his eyes were raw.. reddened.. his cheeks were tear stained.. he drew in a long shakey breath.. -.. I can't.. I.. -his brows furrowed.. he looked confused.. lost.. his hand rose as he wiped at his cheeks before dragging his fingers back through his hair.. -.. I cant.. i thought I.. I thought I could.. be.. here.. I can't.. -he swallowed.. -.. I need to get out.. I need air.. -he felt as though he was suffocating.. that the walls were going to start to turn in on him-.. I -he looked to her.. just now noticing what she had on.. what she had slipped into.. for him.. and it would be then that the notes words would register properly and he felt horrible..

he reached for her then.. his cool fingers cradling her cheeks-.. You..You are incredibly beautiful.. I mean.. -he slid his hands down along her arms there.. holding them out at her sides as he took a step back-.. look at you.. -look at you.. who could possibly walk away from you.. -his heart ached in that moment-.. Im so sorry.. I.. our timing is horrible.. it's.. heart breakingly horrible.. -he released her hands.. if it weren't for all of this.. there would have been no hesitation.. none what so ever.. she was stunning.. the little outfit left nothing to the imagination.. though he knew precisely what she looked like.. what she felt like.. all of it.. just now.. was not the right time.. he didn't want to embarrass her.. or make her think he didn't want to.. or that he didn't want her.. it wasn't like that at all-.. I cant be in here.. -his breathing began to pick up.. like if he left it much longer he would probably have a panic attack.. -.. come with me please Rose?.. -he almost pleaded with her.. -.. I shouldn't be alone.. right now.. Im sure enough of that.. i-he trailed off.. there was no telling what he might have done if he was left to his own devices..

a few more tears tumbled down his cheeks there.. his lower lip trembled.. if she agreed to accompany him he'd gather up his thick winters coat.. it was long enough that i would just about cover her completely.. from neck to ankles..she'd have to handle her shoes though.. her feet were like that of a pixie in comparison.. before he would take her hand.. and the pair of them swiftly made their way out through the servants entrance out the back.. down through the darkened back garden.. to a wooden gate.. the air.. was cool and crisp as it brushed against his cheeks and lips.. he fumbled with the lock.. the key in his hand.. his fingers were just not behaving.. his brain was still slightly in panic mode.. before he grit his teeth down.. allowing her to take the key from him.. feeling the gentle warmth of her fingers..

before she would easily unlock the padlock.. he really just needed to calm down a little.. on the other side of that wooden gate and high hedged fence line.. was the ocean.. it was right there.. they went from thick english grass and stone.. to soft slightly warmed sand.. and he exhaled long and deep.. there was no restraint when one fronted the ocean.. everything was open.. there was no walls.. no closing in.. you could breathe here.. he heard her talking.. that he didn't have to.. that she wouldn't ask.. he just had to know she was there.. that she'd listen.. a promise to not leave.. he sunk down to sit on his knees there in the sand.. the gate swinging closed behind them.. she settled in beside him.. his chest was a little erratic with the irregular breathing as he just broke.. he snapped.. he couldn't hold it in anymore.. and the reason for his need to get out.. and he cried.. it wasn't loud.. it wasn't anger driven.. it was years and years of tightly wound emotion all bubbling over.. it was everything he had bottled up.. that he had been warned not to.. finally coming to the surface..

he felt her arms around him.. before she began to sing softly.. she didn't stop him.. she didn't try to gain his attention.. she let him go.. and he needed to.. he needed it desperately.. her song though.. slowly began to find its way deep down ..filtering through each of his senses.. allowing him the ability to breathe as the top of the pressure lessened a touch..as his heart slowed just enough for him to be able to catch his breath.. he swallowed.. just listening.. his gaze looking out over the crashing waves in the immediate distance.. did she know what she did?.. did she honestly know how much she meant.. how she helped him.. without pushing him.. without suffocating him.. he felt her fingers.. her touches as the song slowly came to a close.. she was wiping his tears away.. asking if he wanted her to go with him tomorrow.. he turned his gaze then to look to her.. a little heavy lidded as he took a deep long breath.. his hand reached across.. sliding over hers when she went to talk about tea.. and cinnamon rolls-.. Dr Barathon is ok.. -he whispered softly.. his fingers curling under to interlace with hers-.. physically he..well he couldn't be better really.. -he swallowed.. coughing a little as his voice crackled-..

thats not why he called me..-his brows furrowed as his breath began to hitch again.. before he gained control of it.. blowing out a slightly shakey one-.. his wife died..a few days ago.. -his head dipped forward then.. and it might make a little more sense now as to why he just shattered.. his free hand rose as he rubbed at his cheek.. his chin-.. he.. uh.. -pausing.. struggling-.. he couldn't bring himself to honour his obligation to the hospital naturally.. -he dragged his tongue across his teeth.. a few more tears slid their way down his cheeks..more threatening to do the same shortly after-..he didn't tell me.. because he thought that.. well.. -he looked out to the ocean once more-.. I'd been through enough.. i was his last choice for replacement.. he didn't want to worry me.. he didn't want to see me fail.. and break.. -he bit down upon his lower lip-.. I.. -hesitation-.. I can understand it.. I can.. he's taking it.. really badly.. the house help told me he's only been out of bed once since.. and his little girl doesn't quite understand whats happened..

-his eyes welled up once more..-.. umm.. she.. her name was Lilly.. I lived with them for a short while.. when i studied here.. he was my tutor.. like.. i am yours.. they had 2 beautiful children.. there was an accident.. early on this year.. out on a boating trip.. their little boy was lost overboard.. never found.. -his breath hitched.. -.. uhh..she took it hard.. as a Mother would.. of course.. and.. never forgave herself.. -he swallowed-.. she took her own life.. he.. uh.. found her.. -he wasn't going to go into detail on just how he found her.. it was information that really just wasn't necessary.. his heart hurt.. his muscles ached.. he paused.. taking another long breath.. holding it.. before he released it-.. The funeral is tomorrow Rose.. if..-he turned to look to her there through reddened eyes-.. you want to accompany me.. I would like that.. but there is no obligation.. what so ever.. -he shook his head.. he wasn't even sure if he felt right asking her in the first place..he slowly pulled himself to stand there.. reaching down to help her up-.. walk with me?.. -he'd question.. it was cold.. the breeze was chilling against any part of you that wasn't really well covered.. but.. it was also calming.. -.. I feel like I need to share this with you.. -he wasn't sure why but.. it seemed like the right time..-.. what with the stuff you said earlier.. in the forest.. my past lingering..

-the pair of them slowly walked along the beach there.. it was deserted.. silent apart from the wind.. the sounds of the waves.. -.. I met Cora when i was a bit younger.. -he nodded-.. she was the student of Dr Rincavornon.. we didn't have the manor.. at least not yet..we resided in one of the hotels nearer to the hospital.. she was a beautiful girl.. with a lot of promise.. kind of like you.. but thats where the similarities end.. -he didn't want to offend.. he was struggling with it all as it was-.. the pair continued to walk.. to wander across the sands...avoiding the great bunches of seaweed.. catching sight of shells dotted here and there .. he stopped.. plucking up a few of the smoother stones.. throwing them into the water-..we hit it off pretty quickly.. she and I appeared to have quite a bit in common.. -he took another shakey breath.. skimming another stone- one thing lead to another.. and.. -he waved his hand a little-.. I honestly thought..she was the one.. you know.. the actual one.. -his brows furrowed-.. she seemed genuine in her actions.. her feelings.. the way she acted around me.. natural progression.. I proposed.. and we were married.. My Mother.. or.. well.. one of them was extremley hesitant.. and in hindsight.. i wish Id have listened.. its possible she knew more than I did.. but.. I was young and stubborn..

-Sydel had warned him.. on more than one occasion.. even going so far as to warn Cora herself to back off.. -.. My Mother didn't like her.. im still not certain why.. but.. anyway.. I always knew that Cora was.. friendly with Dr Rincavornon.. I was friendly with him.. he was like my best mate.. he even took the part of my best man at the wedding.. wed known one another since we were kids.. i mean she was his student.. they were always around one another.. it's pretty hard to avoid when you're being tutored.. -he motioned between them both there..- case in point.. The three of us.. Faelon, Rincavornon and myself went down to Menzoberranzan.. during one of the festivals..it was Rics idea.. seemed harmless enough.. the girls came with us.. the students.. I was hesitant about that as I knew it was a lot harder to keep eyes on a larger group.. than say.. a couple.. but he was adament all would be fine.. when everyone split off during the festivities I settled in to talk with the Mystics.. the Wizards.. I needed some information.. and some samples.. that being the best way to do it..simple enough.. until I heard Cora calling out.. i dont remember what she was saying.. i think most of its just gone from my memory..

-he scratched the back of his head a little..-.. i left and headed toward the smaller tents.. where the couples were.. well.. you get the idea.. -rowdy they were the massage tents.. -.. I saw Cora there.. in one of the tents.. she was wearing very little.. it was pretty customary.. clothing optional.. -he exhaled.. skimming the second to last stone-.. I going to ask her what was up.. did she need or want anything.. before i felt that strike.. that cold.. slicing sharp pain in my right shoulder.. i reached back around and felt the end of a cross bows bolt.. before I heard his voice.. Rincavornon.. -he gritted his teeth down then.. throwing that final stone further than all of the others-.. his hand was on my opposite shoulder.. I couldn't move.. the khaless strike was swift .. he kicked out my knees then and i fell down onto them.. only managing to grasp the wooden boxes for support..he told me to enjoy the show.. and it didn't register.. i was terribly confused.. that I never should have encroached upon his property.. before he disappeared.. only to reappear within that room there with her.. I..-he hesitated-.. I couldn't.. I was.. paralysed.. i didn't even have the power to close my own eyes.. I was forced to watch.. my closest friend and confidant.. fuck my wife.. the last thing I remember was.. her spotting me there.. her eyes.. looking to me.. and there was no shock there.. there was no guilt.. or desire to run.. she just looked at me.. before turning back to kiss him once more and i must have passed out..

-he swallowed.. sinking down to sit in the sand there upon his knees.. his hands reaching back to run fingers through his hair-.. I woke up in Shimmershine.. a couple of days later.. with a pixie named Anouk.. she must have been there for the night.. came across me and dragged me out.. she offered to wipe my memory for me.. that I could stay there.. forget all about everything.. forever.. it was tempting.. incredibly so.. but no.. I have family who I could never.. ever turn my back on.. I returned to the hotel.. a few days later.. I was accused of running off.. by Cora and Rincavornon.. that I must have found a young woman somewhere.. and fucked her and the like.. I just didn't care by that stage..when Cora found out she was pregnant.. Rincavornon backed off.. completley.. he couldn't have been more cold.. and I guess.. I stepped into the honerable role.. she was my wife afterall.. and I was there for her.. things got better.. little by little.. they were never perfect and they were strained.. we never well.. -they never slept together again not since he witnessed her with Ric-.. not after what I saw.. I just couldn't bring myself to do it.. my own needs practically dissappeared.. and I figured this was how I was to exist.. and so I did.. -he just accepted it for what it was-.. she seemed to love me...the day came round for baby to be born and everything seemed to be going smoothly.. I as the Father.. was sent out of the room.. as is custom.. I remember pacing as Rincavornon and one of his charges assisted the birth.. something went wrong though.. the baby got caught.. or.. I dont know.. and she passed away.. my son had to be cut from her to survive.. -a few more tears tumbled down his cheeks then.. his knees were brought up to his chest.. chin to their tops-.. that little boy never did anything wrong.. not a single thing.. and yet I cant bring myself to find a real connection with him.. I am a horrible person for that..

[BadInfluence]

She’d never really admired anyone before Jacob and Dr. Faelon, and being in that office she honestly felt like she was going to end up seriously disappointing someone, and given that it had been Dr. Faelon? Oh God yes she had drawn into herself feeling incredibly embarrassed at that, like a child who got caught with their hand in the cookie jar, or ended up muddied before church… She was more than a little ashamed, getting up and coming to his side when he came in, her head dipped and cheeks flaming. His laugh had helped ease her back a little, showed her he wasn’t mad at her, if anything he found the entire situation pretty hilarious… Which you know, did let her feel a little bit better about the situation but in the end, she was fairly sure she would never live this down though… It would be an inside joke between them, something Faelon could tease her about now and then, which wasn’t exactly a bad thing… It was just the first time this had ever happened so it was… Unique. She took his jacket gratefully and walked beside him as they talked, waiting for a carriage they could hire to roll by, and in those moments… Just her and Dr. Faelon… She could confess a few things… “I did plan on it yes, I wanted to see what their intensive care unit looks like and how they operate under some of their more extreme cases, like contagious diseases or extreme trauma… I’m not worried about the size of it, even if I have spent my whole life in my little home town, I know I can do this… I feel it in my bones that this is something I was supposed to do… But I’m scared… I can’t handle this one aspect of the medical field, it terrifies me, traumatizes me… Makes me feel like the world is going to implode and I’ll be swallowed up by this blackness… It’s the one thing that hangs me up, that makes me feel like I might fail at this, even though I want to do it all so badly…” She said with a soft shrug of her shoulders there, her air coming out in soft warm puffs in the cooler night, not quite fog but enough to feel the change as she walked. They began to talk about Luna and Ellen and she shook her head, her fingers curling into the jacket he had lent her, her face taking on a touch of anger. “Luna killed someone… She had done it because she didn’t know how to properly read the charts, she didn’t listen to me when I told her she was wrong, and someone died…” She said, turning her head to look up at him, confessing one of the dirty secrets she had on Luna. “I want to become a doctor to stop people like her from making such horrible events come to pass. I want to be able to save someone’s life, to be able to stand between them and death and tell the Reaper he has to leave, and if I can’t? Then I want to make sure that the kiss of death is as soft and sweet as I can because I never… Ever… Want to see someone die in terror… Not again.” She shook her head vehemently, these secrets she shared with him that she hadn’t with Jacob, and not because she didn’t trust him… God no far from it… It was because in her mind… She knew Faelon would understand… There was a drive there… A pressing need… The sort of fervor that makes those Doctors that always stand a little above the rest, like himself, like Jacob… “Sorry…” She said softly, shaking her head, crossing her arms and dragging the jacket in a little bit tighter.

“I went off a little bit there. And between you and I… Depending on how things go… I might take you up on the offer Dr. Faelon. “Jacob said he wouldn’t feel right sleeping with one of his students… That it went against his morals and she… She wanted him, she knew the more time she spend around him unless he told her flat out he didn’t feel anything for her anymore, she wasn’t going to be able to resist… God she didn’t want to… She needed him like she needed water to survive, she thirsted after him like a woman lost in the deserts, and if she had to leave his team in order to have him in every other way… God… God help her she couldn’t do it… “Kit needs a good teacher and I know your team is full and you can’t take on someone who can’t guide themselves… Ja- Dr. Anakin could do it, even if they um, had a bit of a rough start… I won’t rob Kit of the chance she deserves because of how I-“ She flushed crimson suddenly and stopped her words right there, supplanting them with something else. “-Enjoy his teaching methods. I work so well on my own that under his guidance I find it very easy to learn and get on the right track… Like with the Oloth’arr? I never would have thought about it if he hadn’t lent me his book on how detailed the systems are for the various races. When I saw the complexity of the Dwarves and I thought about how hard the cases are when we get them, the two clicked over and that’s how the idea started, I never would have had it without Dr. Anakin’s teaching.” She said before he spoke and she smiled, teasing him a bit there and saying she liked him too, the conversation on a much more happy and neutral topic there. She had almost spilled something she didn’t intend to, all because he was on her mind, because of what she had asked for tonight…



Back at the Inn it was nice and warm, she was able to return his jacket to him, smiling up at him before they headed off to dinner. She had asked a plate to be set aside and she would bring it to him when he came in, stating he wanted to do some preparations ahead of time and would explain why he was a little late, so the rest of them could eat without fear of being rude. She had tried a bit of the food and honestly, all it needed was a little push in the right direction and it could be absolutely fantastic, and she hoped… She hoped she wasn’t overstepping her bounds when she slipped into the kitchen to talk to the cook. When she saw he was a Dwarf it brought to mind the little joke she and Jacob had shared about her cooking, that she had a runty one stashed away in the cabinet that she made to cook for her and fed him on sarcasm and moss. Oh it made her want to laugh and her smile when it came out was that much brighter, even more so when she realized he was such a warm and easily likeable fellow, making the whole process so much easier. She settled in with him then and showed him a couple of things, like how the rice with a touch of that roe and a little garlic had totally changed the flavor around, and with the chicken just a touch of hot curry powder with some cumin and pink sea salt had just blown it out of the water. He was already a great cook, he had that consistency down to a fine science, and everything was tender and juicy and firm when it was needed. All he needed was just that little nudge. When he called in the owners though she shook her head and tried to beat it out of there but she couldn’t escape without being rude, her cheeks flaming as the owners came in, elves just like her… The same race even… If possible she blushed even more and shook her head, saying no thanks were needed, she honestly just wanted to help… But the offer for a free stay in the future was greatly appreciated, and in the end she did offer to help in the kitchen when she stayed, she wasn’t about to be a little mooch for something as small as just helping with the cooking a little. Everything on the table was easily dressed up and switched around, and everyone began to tuck in like they hadn’t eaten in a week, all of them having a good time there. Kit and the little Asian on Dr. Faelon’s team hit it off like a house on fire and they ended up bouncing things a lot back and forth, especially over the stages of labor which made her shy away from the conversations, instead focusing on one with Dr. Faelon and the redhead who shared her freckles. The tall girl with the cute hair was surprisingly quiet but when she spoke she had some incredibly good points, which caused her to drag her into the conversation more, and oh yes… Some incredible things were talked over there, everyone amicable and having a good time, no fights or deep arguments just friendly points of view that differed. Dinner was completely obliterated and many went off to bed, others lingered down stairs over wine and marshmallows, and she honestly would have had a glad but given the last time… She was probably going to stay quite sober for some time unless she was around safe company… Not saying this group wasn’t but she was more along the line of erring on the side of caution now… She waved to Kit as she went up to sleep, making sure she grabbed her books before Kit went to bed so she wouldn’t wake her, staying down in the general area to get a few more hours of study in if she could… She was also waiting up for Jacob, a little surprised he was still out but she wasn’t his mother, she wasn’t a worry wart about to go hounding at his heels. He had wanted to see his friend here so she figured it was exactly that and hoped his visit with him was well.



When he did come in though she knew something was wrong… Something had happened… Something had… Changed. She set her books up neatly and headed upstairs after him some moments later so there wouldn’t be any suspicion, slipping into her room where Kit was already deep asleep, changing into the sheer white silk and gold thread outfit that she thought… If he was ok and just a little upset… This would definitely be the way to cheer him up and get his mind off of it… She snuck down the empty hall to his room, closing the door behind her as she registered just how dark it was, how… Depressing if there was such a thing as a physical representation of this… Her heart stopped a bit, seeing him over the desk, arms on the desk and the way he was hunched over… Something was wrong… Very wrong… She heard his words that he was not the best company and she shook her head, going to his side instantly and wrapping him up in her arms, holding him close… She felt him turn into her, his head upon her smooth belly, feeling his tears land on her feet… “Oh my poor Jacob… My sweet love…” She whispered softly, almost too softly for him to hear, telling him he was the only company she would ever want, and she tried… She thought she might be able to take him to bed and help him breathe, relax into the soft mattress after she got him out of his things, let him mourn in private with only her as his consort… He did stand up but he couldn’t change out, he still had too much going on inside, his body wouldn’t let him rest… It was still too heavy… “It’s ok… I know… ” She said, ready to do what ever he needed right now, anything to help him feel better… It was then though that he noticed her and she shook her head, her hands coming up to caress the back of his own, turning to kiss the palm of one of his hands. “None of that matters right now… When it is meant to happen, it will, the fates will line up and it will be magical… It always is with you…” She whispered, her hands coming up, one resting over his heart and the other to gently cradle his cheek. “All that matters right now is you… I’m not going anywhere, my feelings will never change, I can wait…” She said gently as she nodded, saying he couldn’t be in there, that he had to get out… She nodded her head when he asked her to come with him, her hands taking his, giving his a gentle loving squeeze. “Anywhere Jacob… I’m right here… I’ll stay right here just like your shadow…” She continued to gently stroke his cheek, her fingers imparting as much soothing care as she could, gently wanting to impart her support to him. “Lead the way.” He knew this place much better than her after all, and she gratefully took his jacket, for while she did have a robe or two packed thanks to Anouk there was no way in hell they could have held up to the chill. She slipped it over her shoulders and buttoned it up, looking like it fit her as a duster would, a very.. Large one. She went barefoot though, she had done it before often enough and she could handle the chill on her feet easily enough, and besides… She liked the cooler weather far more than the hot. She followed behind him easily down the back stairs and the quiet, into the dark back garden area and down, but when they got to the gate she paused and gently took the keys from him. It wasn’t easy when your that emotionally unsettled to do much of anything really, and she knew if he kept trying he would probably frustrate himself, so she took the stress from him. She gently touched the back of his hands as she took it from him and opened the gate, closing it quietly behind them as he walked down to the ocean, surprised that it was so close… She paused and watched the water lap at the shore, this constant dance of water and earth, like a couple permanently entwined…



She let him know she wouldn’t ask… She wasn’t going to pry… Only that she was here for him, she wasn’t going to go anywhere, she would stay right here with him for as long as he needed her. She came to settle in behind him as he sunk to his knees there in the sand, wrapping her arms around him, giving him her shoulder to cry on and just to… Let it all go… She just held him as he broke, her fingers soft and warm in his hair, around his back as she gently ran it up and down in slow smooth circles… She knew that the tears were the bodies way of letting emotions out that had sat under too long, she knew just from what he had told her that these were a long time coming, at least three years if not more… She didn’t stop him, didn’t try to talk to him, she just let him get it all out… A solid place to rest his head while he let himself shatter at long last, all the pressure finally being let off, like what ever had happened had finally been the last drop in the bottle… She would start to sing to him softly there as he cried, not because she wanted to interrupt him, but because to her… It felt like he needed it… That it helped him… He had calmed when she sung to him while unconscious, and she hoped that this would bring him a little solace too, like a warm blanket on a cold night… She didn’t need for him to stop until he was ready, she just wanted him to feel as secure and safe as he could there in her arms, like she was making a space just for him… Showing him his room in her heart where only he resided… As he slowly began to come into himself, part of the poison in his soul finally being bled out, only then did she speak very softly… About the tea and cinnamon rolls… That she would go with him tomorrow if he wanted her to… When he ran his hand over hers she turned them, linking them as she held him in her arms, listening to what he said… It was curious when he said that the Doctor was in good health, which made her wonder then what was going on, but he filled her in soon enough. She didn’t speak, just supported him, her fingers running through his hair and gentle kisses to the crown of his head and his temples… She gently encouraged him to let it out when his breath caught, that it was ok to cry in between words, she understood… Just reaching up to wipe his tears away softly now and then… She understood then why the Doctor hadn’t been able to do the speech, after all that it would be impossible to do so, the heart just can’t… Not if the love was real… She also understood his hesitation to ask Jacob, once he figured out what had happened, it would strike a little too close to home after Jacob’s own wife had died a few years before. She just made soft soothing sounds for him, kept the physical contact strong and loving, constant so he knew he could break any time he needed to and she would catch him… While he talked she made little mental notes, something along the lines of to stop by that charming little toy shop to get something for the little girl tomorrow, a chance to maybe sit down with her and explain since her father was so badly hurting and couldn’t explain things… She made plans on plans for that household, she didn’t have a lot of time to help them, but she wanted to… She would do the best she could do for now, and given just how precious the family was to Jacob, they were in turn precious to her… When he asked her to come with him tomorrow to the funeral she nodded her head, pressing a soft kiss to his temple, blowing her air softly through his hair. “You are never an obligation Jacob… Ever… I’ll handle the carriage and transportation… All of it… You just focus on you…” She said gently before he started to move, to stand, reaching up to take his hand as he helped her up. She dusted off his coat and began to walk with him, reaching out to take his hand, to link their pinkies together… Something soft… Warm… But non-invasive… Just a small contact that could be changed if he wanted more… She watched his movements, his words, nodding her head softly when he said it was in regards to the ghosts in his past…



It was… Strange to hear it in the end. She thought it would be… A little different but at the same time, it also explained a lot of his own morals, his reasons for the rules he imposed on himself. The way he seemed to hold onto Cora’s ghost made her think there was some grand love story there, something soft and amazing, a little like a fairytale… Yet another part of her was angry… Angry that it was sounding so much like that they had now, and she was so, so very different from that… Wasn’t she? Weren’t they? She wasn’t offended though, and she showed him as much when he apologized, shaking her head softly as they walked. She never interrupted, she didn’t make any sounds as he talked, and as he needed distance she gave it… Watching him step away to grab up rocks, stepping around the large piles of seaweed and other flotsam, throwing them at the sea… She tilted her head when he said that his mother had warned him, telling him that it was a bad idea, which made her wonder… What had the mother seen that he didn’t? And wasn’t she supposed to meet them when ever this stag party happened? What if his mother didn’t like her either? What if she was one of those parents who didn’t think anyone was good enough for her son? Would he listen to her a second time around and she would lose any chance with Jacob she might have? It was a scary thought… She focused on what he said once more and when she heard the story of the Khaless and everything else… She had to grip her hands VERY tightly and to do her best to ground herself, but she was beyond angry, this was a rage so deep and sharp it cut her like a red hot knife… The seaweed and chunks of wood on the beach were not left idle though, the seaweed suddenly began to tremble and the wood suffered silent cracks as the pressure grew on them, her heart torn to shreds and all she felt was rage… Anger… A deep and desperate need to find Ric and kill him slowly, painfully and in stages, to do to him what he had done to Jacob… Instead though… Instead she forced herself to take a slow deep breath, to bottle up the anger and rage and let it out as she exhaled, letting it all go… This wasn’t her war… Her battle… She wouldn’t jump into the fray… Not because she didn’t want to, but because right now it was the last thing he needed, what would any of that do for him? He needed a friend, someone who took all he said without judgement or emotions, just let him finally get it all off his chest and out in the open after being locked up in his soul for so long… When he sat back down on the beach once more, she came to stand at his side, a silent guardian as he finished his story… She understood now why Anouk was so precious to him, such a grand friend, she must have been the first person to apply the balm to his wounds… To help him just… Keep going. She might need to talk to Anouk in the future a bit, perhaps before the trip to Arvandor, to help her find something that would suit the group there more… She reached down and gently rested her fingers on his should, stroking softly as she thought everything over, just keeping the contact up… In a few minutes she came down and gently began to insert herself into his hold, moving him around a bit so she was straddling his lap, opening the jacket she had borrowed to wrap him up in it with her… Bathing him in her soft warmth and gentle sweet scent, little hints of pear and anise… “I… Am going to say a few things that sound cold… That aren’t very kind… But you need to hear them, even if they might hurt a little, and I am sorry for the pain you might feel…” She said gently, curling in closer to him, her ass down over his groin as she sat in his lap… Arms wrapped around him and holding him close… “Cora was infatuated with you… She liked the idea of you… But when the idea became a reality she fell out of that infatuation…” Oh she knew it was hard… Cold… But it was the truth, you can’t love someone and do all that, no way in hell. You can be infatuated, you can feel puppy love, you can even be enamored… But never, ever love, she knew that… She knew because she loved him, she loved him and she could never, ever imagine ever doing anything to hurt him… Let alone hurt him to such a state that she would wound more than his flesh but down, much farther, past his heart and into his soul… A scar that ached and burned and almost… Almost ruined him from ever, ever finding love again, and she worried… She worried that he might not be able to because the fear of being hurt again so deeply would hold him back. “If you never touched her after Ric and she became pregnant… Well… Immaculate conception hasn’t been proven to be a possibility…” She said gently… There was no way for her to become pregnant LATER if he hadn’t touched her, which easily put that child not as his own, but as Rics… And given he said Ric got cold and distant the moment she got pregnant then it was obvious he hadn’t been before for one, and two, he only dropped her because she was no longer fun and instead an obligation… If she would have survived? Chances were he would have started to fuck her all over again and made Jacob the Thrush to his Cuckoo… On top of all this though… She knew he was aware the child wasn’t his but he was still trying to raise him as such, feeling guilty because he couldn’t connect to a child that belonged to someone who had hurt him deep enough to break a part of his very spirit. She reached up to wipe the tears from his face softly, cradling his cheek in her hand for a moment, running her thumb over his cheekbone. “Kace is a child yes but it’s not your fault any more than it is his, and you are in no way a horrible person for it, not in the slightest… That would be like saying every person who came to the orphanage was horrible because they didn’t adopt me… You need to heal first before you can do anything Jacob… You’ve taken… A really, really big step today, you’ve cut the chain of the anchor you’ve been stuck to at the bottom of this emotional sea you’re in… You’re going to start moving up now… You’ll start to heal… To find that light you’ve been missing… Don’t be afraid of it…” She wrapped him up in her arms again and held him close, just supporting him, keeping him warm and safe next to her.



She would stay there for as long as he needed her to, silent and supportive, drying his tears when they came and gently touching him… Combing her fingers through his hair, kissing his temple or his forehead, a shoulder when he needed one to cry on… Anything and everything he needed. She would slowly take his hands into hers, to press them over her beating heart, sure he could feel it through her skin and his palms… “Do you feel this?” She would ask softly, waiting for him to agree, to nod his head that he could feel her heart beating there. “That’s what love feels like…” She said softly, confessing her feelings to him, her cheeks soft and pink but she was oh… So very… Very honest about her feelings there… She had thought about them a lot since the woods where he had told her he wasn’t sure if he liked or loved her, and she had time to reflect on her own, and the more she thought about it… The more she knew she loved him… Loved all these sides of him, the whole parts and the broken ones, his smiles and his tears… She loved all his broken pieces… “I know you’re a little broken… I know you’re a little cracked… That just makes me love you all the more… This world left you with gaps so I can fill them with my love for you… Like gold to repair a broken or chipped dish, I am going to seal up every little crack and fissure, I’ll heal you up from the inside out… I’ll be the light in those dark spots so when you look back… They don’t hurt anymore… They’ll just be your past, but they won’t control you anymore, they’ll be like faded pictures… There but they won’t touch you anymore…” She whispered to him and him alone, her lips against the gentle shell of his ear, every word a soft caress and kiss… “You don’t have to love me back… I know you’re afraid… You have every right to be with your past, with what happened to you, what you had to endure… I know you might never feel that way, and that’s alright too, because I don’t love you for you to love me back… I love you just because I love you, because loving you to me, has become as natural as breathing, as real as the sun in the day and the moon at night…” She pulled back a little to look into his eyes, resting her forehead against his, her fingers reaching down to find his hands and lace her fingers with his. “I love you… And this… This love… It’s never going to stop…” They were elves, and when they loved, it was a deep and all abiding sort… The kind that lasts long past death and well into their version of heaven, to stay as warm and bright as a sun until they were born again, to find that love all over again… To remember and unite all over again… Forever and for all time… She would dip her head in to capture his lips, to press a soft kiss over them, as gentle as a feather and as sweet as candied apples… “I won’t ask anything of you Jacob… I have everything I could have ever dreamed of wanting just by being around you… You… You’re all I need… Right as you are…” She whispered against his lips softly before she would hug him once more and stay there in silence, what ever he said he said, what ever he did… He did… But she wouldn’t ask him to change or do anything different, this right here was what they both needed, and she felt… She felt in her heart he needed to hear that truth from her… After baring himself and all his pain, he might have felt himself unlovable, and she wanted him to know… That she loved him… She loved him without conditions or asking for anything… She loved him for who he was, broken and chipped, bent and a little shy… She was in love with all his scars and his bruises, the cuts and burns and lacerations that life had left on him, and she never… Ever… Wanted to change a part of him… His past helped to form who he was and she was thankful for it, and even if her heart broke for what he had gone through, even if it might have completely ruined any chance of him loving her back? If she could just bring a little light to his life… Help him shake off that ice age of his heart… Then she would think she was the luckiest woman in the world…



It would be a while later before she spoke again, knowing he felt so raw and vulnerable, and after sharing so much… It was only fair to tell him a secret of hers too… To let him know he wasn’t alone… “I was around… Seven I think when it happened… We had a new janitor come into the orphanage to clean and maintain the house and grounds… He was what we would call a Pedophile but at the time I didn’t understand the word, I only understood how he treated me, the way he picked me out of everyone else… He did… Things… Terrible things… Would… Have me in a closet with him and he would… Touch himself until he finished and tell me if I told anyone he’d kill me… When your small you believe these adults and it’s just… It went on for a while… Less than a year but… Enough to terrify me of men and sex in general… I was lucky though… I was his favorite and so he didn’t do much more than… Touching my bum or… H-umping me from the back…” She said with a stall and a shiver, remembering being pinned against the arm of a couch while he dry humped her and came on her back before leaving her there… But she really was lucky… There was another girl there who he went all the way with… A year older than her… And he raped her more than a few times… She paused… Slowly drawing in a breath before she continued on. “He figured out that when he did… Things to me the plants in the house would go nuts… They’d try to reach out to him, to stop him like they could protect me, which was why he started to do it in the closet… But after a while he thought he could make… Money off of me… He stole me one night and took me to the back… There is a cemetery behind the orphanage and he threw me in there… Locked me in a mausoleum inside one of the caskets… All I could smell was death and decay… Rotting flesh and dying flowers… It was dark… Wet… Closed up… He told me if I wanted out… I had to make things grow… I didn’t know how to do any of that so he would start to molest me again there with the dead and that’s… How he made it work… He… He made me grow opium in my terror and I made him rich…” Which was why she was terrified of going around the cities in Arvandor, why she said if anyone knew about her abilities they would use her like a battery, to grow what ever they wanted regardless of the consequences to her. “It stopped when one of the girls at the orphanage got pregnant and said he was the father… It all came out what he had done, several of the younger girls there had been molested and raped, and he was arrested… I was there… A couple of months later when she went into labor… I was eight… She was ten… Almost eleven… I was the only one who was around, most of the other kids were off on holiday with the group and it was just me and her and one older woman… I tried to help her… She was screaming and in so much pain… She looked so wrong… Like a kitten having a litter after her first heat… I didn’t know what to do, I had only ever seen the pigs or cows in town giving birth and it was nothing, nothing like that…” Even now, years later it terrified her, just the first scream of a contraction was enough to break her down into nothing more than a terrified child… Running in the other direction as fast as she could, trying to find a place small and dark to hide in, hands over her ears to block out the screams. “She was too young… And I didn’t know anything, the woman in the house was a mother herself but there was nothing we could do, both her and the baby died… I was left to clean up… We buried her the next day…” She said as she leaned against his legs for a moment, taking his hands in hers, stroking her fingers over his hands. “It’s why I’m afraid of childbirth itself… Everything before is fine… Everything after too… But in that moment… I see the little girl and all I can think of is that I’m going to fail… Like I’m a child all over again and this person is going to die because of me… We’re not so different, you and I, are we? We have a life that’s scarred and shaped us, a burning mold that forced us to shift our original shape into something else, but it didn’t change who we are… We are still us… It didn’t beat us and we’re going to keep going because it’s who we are…” She said gently as she lifted his hands so she could kiss the knuckles there, rubbing them softly in her hands while the cold ocean wind blew around them. “We’ll beat back our shadows together… You and I… We’ll be the light for the other so we can forge ahead until we’re out of the bitter waters and into the sweet…” A small, warm smile on her lips there before she would shift a little in his lap, reaching up to caress his cheeks. “Come on… I’ll make you some tea and warm up your dinner… We’ll settle by the fire for a little while and warm you up, then we’ll head upstairs and get you a shower and into bed, and I’ll sing you lullabies until you fall asleep…” Tomorrow she had a lot to do before that funeral, things she would pop out to do at the crack of dawn while he still slept, a chance to help make things easier for… Everyone involved. For right now though he needed to eat, he needed to relax with some tea laced with more than a little whiskey personally, and to sleep until tomorrow… And oh… How she would want to sleep with him, but like she had said before, they would have their chance…



Now if only her body would believe her brain and stop goading her to want to help ease his pain through sex… To let him slake the last throbbing shoots of sadness and sorrow buried inside her between her thighs… To hear his soft sounds of sadness turn into groans of sexual pleasure and need… She rested her forehead against his, hoping over the sound of the sea he couldn’t hear how those thoughts had made her heart beat pick up and her nipples get hard all over again, her mind wanting to support and soothe him while her body… Wanted a whole different kind of care for him… She would try to slip from his lap before he caught on, to stand beside him and help him up this time, walking back with him to the Inn where she would set him before the fire to warm up… Heating his plate for him in the oven before bringing it over with a cup of white tea this time, chamomille and licorice, anise and rose petals… The whole thing smelled beautifully and promised a deep and restful sleep, a touch of sleepy time honey in it along with a shot of whiskey… Over all it would taste like promise in a glass, and it was, it would be guaranteed to give him a dreamless nights sleep as soon as his head hit the pillow… As he did that, she would sit at his knees, near him but out of sight should anyone come by, just settling silently with him and watching the fire pop and snap…

[/i]

[Deleted]

.. Faelon and her were seated there in the back of the carriage.. slowly winding their way through the narrow dimly lit streets at the late hour.. he brought up the great hospital and wether or not she was going to get a chance to visit.. he figured Jacob would more than likely take her.. just as he was taking his charges in the next few days.. he nodded when she spoke on wanting to see the ICU and how the establishment operated when under pressure.. he went to speak though fell short when she mentioned her fear.. that there was one particular aspect of the medical field that she struggled with.. even going so far as to say it traumatised her..

his brow rose a touch there.. and he fell silent.. rubbing his chin just lightly-. Fear is a funny thing really.. it rules us if we allow it.. You're a strong young woman Rose.. You're plucky and the potential you have is.. unmeasured.. if I can leave you with a few words of advice.. you can of course take from it what you will.. -he sat forward a little there on his seat there.. reaching across for her cooled hands.. placing his atop-..Decide that you want it More.. than you are afraid of it.. -he nodded his head.. looking to her there directly.. before he stepped out of the carriage.. the rest of her conversation...of what she had shared with him had not fallen on deaf ears.. the confession about Luna struck him as odd .. and something he was going to look into.. very closely.. and of course the fact she said she might take him up on his offer of joining his team.. he knew she would understand she was welcome.. he enjoyed working with her.. she knew what she was doing and thats all he needed.. confidence and smarts..

he guided her back into the warming grasp of the Inn proper.. the pair of them parting then.. food was placed upon the tables.. she helped to make sure all was seasoned correctly.. and everyone enjoyed it all the more for it.. the atmosphere in the room was warm and friendly.. even when opinions differed.. they just gelled perfectly.. only a couple decided to sit on their own in the corner and no one else paid them any mind.. slowly the students started to head off.. some went to bed.. some settled down before the fires place to relax.. chattering about what they had seen from the windows of the carriage and just what they hoped to get up to the next day when given that spot of free time.. He appeared then.. at a rather late hour.. heading straight up stairs.. practically ignoring anyone that was still standing about.. though his features were utterly shattered...most would have probably stayed away for that fact alone.. he disappeared into his room and he just broke.. she came in and he tried to tell her he was not the best company.. that she would be more or less better off spending the evening with the girls.. but she wasn't about to leave..

she came to him and he curled in to her as she stood there.. his head pressed to the soft gentle rise of her stomach.. he was incredibly close to throwing a panic attack when the walls began to crawl in on him and he just had to leave.. he needed the air.. stepping out into the cool crisp grasp of the night.. her trailing along beside him dressed in his winter coat.. she was his anchor in these moments.. taking the keys from him as he struggled with the lock on the back gate.. he probably would have yanked it from its handle if he kept at it for much longer.. she was the only thing stopping him from just floating away.. they ended up out on the beach.. the wide open expanse.. all but deserted.. just the sounds of the crashing waves.. the wind.. a ships bell catching its brass surrounds every so often.. his knees hit the sand there and he just broke.. he shattered right there before her.. her arms wrapping around him.. securing him.. keeping him grounded as he just trembled.. he turned into her .. his head to her shoulder as he just cried.. all that pent up emotion.. all those years of bottling things up.. of hiding it all.. were coming to a head.. bubbling to the surface and he could no longer control any of it.. she began to sing to him.. that soft tune.. her voice seemed to have this knack of calming him.. of settling his throbbing heart.. his aching head.. his exhausted body.. her voice cut through the fog.. the heavy emotion..and slowly he began to settle.. little by little and she would have felt it.. she would have had to have noticed it.. he told her..

when he found his voice.. about what had happened.. and how it was not the Doctor.. but his wife who had died.. he reached to wipe at his cheeks.. taking deeper breaths.. trying to keep himself suitably calm.. though every so often his voice would crackle.. or his breath would hitch inward.. he told her of the funeral and when it was.. asking if she would come with him.. only afterwards wondering just how odd it must have sounded.. its not every day one asks someone else to come to a funeral with them.. her response though. was perfect.. she was taking some of the weight from him.. she wanted to help.. she wasn't just there to lean on.. it was more than that.. he slowly rose then.. reaching to help her to her feet.. their hands close.. fingers intertwined as they wandered just a little.. not terribly far.. the wind was icy upon his cheeks.. it did well to dry those tears though.. he told her he wanted to tell her everything.. that he wanted to explain what had happened.. their earlier tryst in the woods.. when she asked of him to be happy caused something inside him to take note.. and then with the good doctor losing his wife.. it all just came out..he began to tell her about Cora..

about when they met.. and how there were clear similarities there.. before he realised it could have come across just horribly so he apologised.. whilst yes.. some things were similar.. Cora and Rose couldn't have been further apart.. so incredibly different in so many ways.. in truth.. he knew more about her in the short time they had been speaking.. then he knew of Cora and they ended up married.. his story continued..he spoke on his Mother though he was not specific on which one he was referring to.. of course it was Sydel that did not like Cora.. though dear Mother was told to zip it and mind her own business.. he plucked up a few smooth rocks then and began to throw them into the awaiting waves.. his history taking that dark turn.. the trip to Menzoberranzan.. and the details that followed.. he sunk down to sit there.. his gaze just staring out over the foamy ocean.. he wasn't looking at anything in particular.. he was just staring.. he told her about Anouk and how that cute little pixie had managed to save him.. taking him back to Shimmershine.. where he stayed for quite a few days.. before his return..he turned his head a little when she came up behind him.. before she shifted.. coming around.. only to then settle down upon his lap.. straddling him.. he stretched his legs out a little to accommodate her.. to make sure she was comfortable.. his coat came up to rest there upon his shoulders as she leant in pressed against him.. he could feel her bodies heat.. the warmth just washing off of her.. and considering she was wearing very little.. well that was no mean feat right there..

he tilted his head when she spoke.. that she was going to tell him something that could well come across as being a bit cold..maybe even a little unkind..-.. speak..of course.. -he whispered softly.. looking back to her there.. his arms had sunk beneath the coat she wore.. and came to rest there against the dip of her lower back.. feeling the soft sheer fabric of her little outfit.. his heart hurt for a moment when she spoke on Coras infatuation.. that the woman liked the idea of him but when all was said and done.. it was fleeting.. he nodded a little.. his brows furrowed a touch but the emotion didn't register too much.. it hurt yes.. it did to hear it.. but.. only for a moment..-.. no.. you're right .. I -he took a breath.. -.. I look back and.. I couldn't see it at the time.. I thought she was everything.. I honestly did.. It's possible the infatuation was felt on both sides.. though mine perhaps lasted longer than hers did.. -he exhaled.. shaking his head.. -.. I thought I loved her.. I don't know.. maybe I did.. or maybe I dont really know what love is.. or..i might not have at the time.. -he was confused.. hurt.. tired.. angry.. exhausted.. he was feeling so very many things in those moments.. she brought up his son then.. and how.. the reality of it all just did not add up.. that it couldn't have been his..

his lids fell closed there and his head leant to rest against hers-.. i know.. -he whispered barely audible.. as if it were just an after thought-.. i think ive always known.. i just couldn't bring myself to leave the little boy on his own.. my upbringing was unconventional.. and i was for all intents and purposes abandoned.. at least in the short term.. and .. I just.. I just couldn't do that to Kace..I just wish i could get past it.. I hadnt been able to.. My family has been incredible.. in that they stepped up to take him on.. I still feel terrible about it all.. -he looked up to her there when she spoke about him not being a terrible person.. that it was his turn to move up now.. to start to properly heal.. to find the light that had gone out.. -.. I hope you're right.. I really do.. -he took another breath there.. his heart felt.. lighter.. he felt a little more open and accepting.. like a grand weight had been lifted from his shoulders.. from his back..

they would just sit.. just together there upon the soft sandy beach.. wind whipping up every so often sending her hair floating.. the coat whipping about.. before it would settle still.. and silence would return.. nothing was said for that little while.. and it was just what he needed.. just what they needed.. some time to just exist.. he felt her lips pressing to his forehead.. it made his lids tumble closed.. her fingers in his hair.. her gentle caresses.. before she took his hands to rest them atop her heart.. asking him if he felt it.. his gaze sought out hers then.. lingering.. when she spoke on thats what love felt like.. he couldn't possibly miss the soft blush that appeared on her cheeks.. she was opening up to him in those moments.. vulnerable and raw.. telling him she loved him.. broken cracks and all.. that she was going to help him heal..be his light..

is own heart took a good few flips then.. it stuttered and started..was this what it was?.. was he falling in love with her?.. this feeling was foreign to him.. and it was a little more than frightening.. he lifted his hand from her chest there.. his free hand coming around.. drawing that coat back around her .. pulling it in tight so she wouldn't catch the chill there.. before his hands would lift to cradle her cheeks.. the corners of his lips curled a little.. it was a smile.. all be it small..his eyes still glistened with unspent tears.. -.. You make me smile Rose.. and it's actually quite frightening to find someone who can effortlessly do that.. over.. and over.. and over again.. -his thumb brushed against her chin-.. You make the world beautiful.. just by being in it.. by being you.. you're smart.. so very..very smart.. witty.. you're funny and silly.. -he actually laughed a little there.. shaking his head-.. I mean.. the nymph tease in the carriage.. -his cheeks coloured just a little there before he looked back up to her-.. you can cook and sing.. you see the best.. in practically everyone.. you pick up everything so quickly.. you're mind is as sharp as a tack.. it's awe inspiring.. I admire you.. so incredibly much.. you're rare Rose.. like the spots upon the back of a ladybug.. a rare pattern.. -his fingers caressed up and down her jawline.. her cheeks there as she leant in to capture his lips and he returned that soft little kiss.. letting it linger there.. and not pulling away even when it slowed to a stop..

his forehead still resting to hers as the two of them just.. sat..he curled in though soon enough.. guiding her head to his shoulder.. and his to hers.. the two of them wrapped up beneath his coat.. he felt.. unusually settled.. just comfortable.. his mind wasn't off wandering.. he felt anchored.. she began to speak then and he listened.. about her childhood.. in the orphanage.. he bristled though when she spoke on this newcommer being a paedophile.. his fingers twitched against her lower back.. oh he knew what it meant.. and he didn't like for a moment where this was going.. his lids closed over when she told of the things this man did to her.. -.. oh god Rose..-he whispered softly..-.. Im so sorry..his hold upon her tightened even more.. securing her this time.. as she had done so for him only moments before... he kept his head upon her shoulder.. not lifting to look to her.. letting her get it out.. all of it.. figuring she probably didn't need a set of eyes upon her in those moments.. she spoke on how she was locked up when her powers were obvious.. and how this man used her.. for monetary gain..his heart sank when he heard it was for opium.. his cigarettes were laced with opium.. making the decision to stop with those at that very instant.. to look into it.. to see if this.. man was still in the land of the living so to speak.. for in the same way she felt like inacting revenge.. oh he did also.. slow.. painful death.. and he knew just who to get to do it.. which member of his family would practically skin that bastard alive and enjoy ever single minute of it..

his hands slowly rubbed up and down her back there.. just soothing.. just touching her as she continued.. before she spoke on her fear.. and how it came to fruition.. a woman dying in childbirth and how she.. even at a young age had to handle it.. had to even help to bury the woman and child.. his heart just sank for her..he listed his head then to look to her finally.. she was just as broken as he was.. they were both familiar with pain.. with dread..he understood so much more about her now.. as she no doubt did he.. -.. you're right.. we have a scarred life.. thats shaped us.. but we are both here now.. and were both learning how to take those steps again.. hopefully without reservation and fear..Im so sorry you went through all of that..-she slowly lifted from his lap there.. and he moved to stand.. their fingers intertwining.. he gave her a little squeeze when she spoke on beating the shadows back together.. that they could be each others light...

before the pair of them headed back to the Inn.. back through the gate there and into the awaiting warmth.. no one remained down stairs at this late hour.. either they were still out and about.. or they had retired.. he sunk down to sit there nearer the hearth.. warming his hands against the flickering flames as she managed to find the dinner plate that had been kept aside for him and some tea.. laced naturally though not enough to get him drunk.. just to calm a few razor sharp nerves.. he offered her a small smile when she handed him the plate.. motioning for her to settle.. to sit and warm up..before he tucked into what was on offer.. not taking a lot of it.. just a bit here and there.. his stomach was a little upside down with all the stress.. but he knew he had to eat..

there would be a gentle tapping upon the stairs.. he glanced up and it was Faelon.. -.. Ahh.. you're back Jacob.. didn't want to have to send out a search party.. Im guessing you have been told about...-he trailed off before Jacob nodded..the two of them spoke on the funeral then.. and what time it was going to be.. it was in the morning.. closer to 11am.. before Faelon went to turn and make his way back up those stairs.. though he stopped before he reached the top..-.. Goodnight Jacob... and to you Rose.. -he would speak quietly.. oh he knew she was there.. she couldn't hide away completley.. he took a drink of the tea there.. downing the remainder of it.. -.. mmm.. there's nothing to be kept from Faelon I'm afraid.. he picks up on things incredibly quickly..

-he slowly rose up from his seat there.. placing the plate and the cup down upon the table.. turning to look to her seated down at the side of his chair.. he reached his hand down to her-.. Come.. -he spoke quietly.. waiting until her soft fingers were curled around his hand before he would pull her to her feet with some swift strong gesture.. he'd lead her up those stairs there.. slowly.. no one else was around.. the house was almost dead silent if it weren't for the odd creaky groan from the wood of the banging of a shutter that had not been closed correctly..

he continued along.. slowing a little as they neared her room.. could he be taking her back to leave her to rest?.. was this where it would be that they would part.. he lingered there a moment.. as if.. deciding.. as if..coming to a conclusion before he continued to lead her toward his own room.. and the door closed behind them both.. the room was a little on the cool side.. still quite dark.. just that almost expired candle flickering upon the bedside table.. he released her hand there only to spin her around so her back was to him.. his arms embraced her.. drawing her in close to him.. pressed back against him .. one hand would rise to pool her hair down over her opposite shoulder before he would whisper softly-.. Thank you.. for reminding me.. what butterflies feel like.. -his hand fell back to slide about her middle there..before he would pause silence falling once more-..now.. do you trust me?..-he would wait for her answer..

if it was yes he would slowly pull his hands away from her middle.. releasing the silk tie from about his neck there.. pulling it from its place before he would reach around her.. she would be able to smell his cologne upon it.. coupled with his own scent.. he placed it over her eyes.. fastening it at the back.. a make shift blindfold..-.. if you're not comfortable at any time you tell me.. -the last thing he wanted to do was to frighten her.. he would reach for her shoulders then.. slowly peeling that thick winters coat off of her.. drawing it away.. letting it fall upon the chair behind her.. -.. relax..-he'd whisper.. his hand would glide down the gentle curve of her back to press against her lower.. ushering her to move forward as he guided her across to the bed.. she'd feel it pressing against her shins there.. her knees.. -.. hop up.. onto the bed.. and lay on your belly for me.. -he'd whisper.. his fingers tracing down the lengths of her arms before he would pull away.

.she'd hear the sound of his boots as he crossed the room.. a fire suddenly crackling to life.. she would have felt that tickle of magic in the air.. and in response most probably the ivy on the outer east wall of the Inn would have crawled a good few more feet along the old wood and brickwork.. he drew the gate across the open hearth there.. a few more steps across.. the latch drawn on the door.. locked.. opening a drawer.. a tink.. the sound of glass bumping glass would chime ..and then a needle caressing thin vinyl as he filled the room with the soft sound of music.. though it was one of those songs that made the heart thud with each and every strong haunting beat.. he came to stand beside the bed there.. unbuttoning his vest.. his shirt.. sliding the clean linen down his arms.. tossing it over the chair there.. his belt buckle would sound.. released from its hold.. the zipper of his jeans drawn down.. before his boots were also finding their place nearer the chair.. leaving him in those shorts..the bottles would be place down upon the table beside the bed.. the tops popped open.. the faint suction sounding.. before the combined scents of rosewood and ylang ylang.. with hints of coconut and grape.. she'd feel his weight as he came to stradle her.. not resting upon her.. he didn't want to force her down into the bed..

though his parted thighs would now come to rest above the generous curves of her ass.. hands would fall down to her sides.. fingers curling just under.. inching that sheer top of hers up a little more.. and then a little more.. until it was as far as he could get it without assistance.. he'd rock forward then.. she'd be able to feel that prominent outline.. he had an inability to hide that hardened length as it pressed against the lush globes of her ass..-.. can you remove your top for me..-he'd whisper.. slowly moving back to sit back up.. he'd pour some of that oil onto his hands.. rubbing them together.. he'd watch..catching sight of her removing that top.. before she would sink back down...pooling her hair over one shoulder.. his fingers would play along those.. to her neck.. slowly down her back.. rubbing just gently.. not a deep thorough massage.. just touching her.. just.. calming her.. just wanting her to relax.. he'd lean forward every so often.. to brush his lips to that sweet spot.. where neck met shoulder.. just barely there as his hands glided down her sides-

[BadInfluence]

Confessing to Dr. Faelon wasn’t something she intended to do, for some reason it just came out, unbidden and certainly not the way she would normally behave. She could remember just a week ago no one could get anything out of her, she was a blank face, a stone wall no one could see through. Now bits and pieces were missing, she discovered she could actually like people, admire and respect them… Want to be around them… Suddenly all the blank faces in the crowd had two, Dr. Faelon and Jacob, people she looked up to… People she trusted. Wasn’t that a scary thing in and of itself? Trusting for the first time at 22 years of age? Talk about getting on the bus late… But no matter how you sliced it she did genuinely care for him and it was why she admitted what she did, that deep down she had this fear, one that made her just want to curl up into a small space and pretend the world didn’t exist, revert to a child and just hide… When he reached forward to take her hands, she placed hers in his, listening to his offered advice. Honestly it was sound, and not so terribly different than from what she had told Jacob, and she knew he was right… Even outside of the fact she shared the same sentiment, it was hard to see that monster of her past as anything less than a monster, some fearsome beast that was waiting in the dark to swallow her up… “Thank you… I will genuinely and sincerely try, honestly I want this so bad Dr. Faelon, I really do… It’s a goal I want to reach and I want to do it as best I can… I needed that more than I realized…” She said with a warm smile before they talked a little more, and towards the end as they talked about Luna and Ellen, she ratted her out… Ellen wasn’t dumb enough to be caught, what she did she did it in a way she hadn’t been found out yet, but Luna… She was soppy, mean and messy, trusting on her own abilities to bully someone into silence and… Her body for the rest. However, that didn’t mean the two weren’t in cahoots, a lesson she learned hard and fast early on as a Striper. After all, she hated Luna and what she had done should have been sent to the police, and to be honest? She had tried. She didn’t have much more evidence than what she said, and she had gotten half the world done which was why Luna had been called up to the head council before she slept her way off of any punishment, but before she could alert the authorities outside of the hospital? Ellen had found her and admittedly it didn’t go well… Ellen didn’t have to do much… But a syringe full of a vicious cocktail is more than enough to make a point… What ever Ellen had stuck her with had left her sick as a dog for two days straight, feeling like the was going to die and honestly afraid she would, and that was Ellen’s threat… Rat Luna out or tell anyone what happened? The next one would be a fatal dose… It wasn’t worth it anymore at that point, God no, she didn’t want to die. She wasn’t that fraking stupid. Instead she shadowed Luna hard, becoming her and Ellen’s lackey for the most part, just to keep people safe. Why else would no one notice her smarts? Why it was so easy for her to be overlooked, even missed at the hospital, when she obviously had a brain? Because she was trying to save people from the shadows… And she had done a good job of it too… Not something she would ever admit to, no more than she would say what Luna and Ellen had done, she had no hard evidence and she wasn’t about to enter a war she wouldn’t win…



They left that talk behind them and she confessed she might go to his team at some point later on. Not because she didn’t like Jacob’s teaching style, God no she loved it, it fit her like a glove made just right… But if their relationship was going to progress in any way then they both needed to make some choices, after all he had said he had his reasons, his hang ups… Not to sleep with a student… He didn’t want to be seen as abusing his station, his power over her or anyone else, it would go against his moral standings… She would switch teams and become Dr. Faelon’s student at that point, because the only thing she wanted more than to be Jacob’s student, was to become his partner… Lover, friend, confident… What ever label it came under, what ever he wanted to call it, she was going to be there with him… She almost slipped up but covered quickly with saying Kit deserved a chance and that was the reason behind it… And it might have been a happy outcome if she switched, but it wasn’t the main one, she was too selfish for that… She had slipped down out of the carriage with is help and they headed inside, and after a fun adventure with the cook in the kitchen and the amazing conversation over dinner, everyone began to split off to do their own things. Most to go up and sleep, a few lingered to chat about their plans for tomorrow, she was waiting for Jacob to come back… She made good use of the time, studying heavily and making up for what she lost when she fell asleep in the carriage and during her little adventure, or was it a misadventure with the bum grabber? When he came back she knew something was wrong, everything about him wasn’t as she had left him, and that made her worried. She slipped upstairs to put her books away and change, slipping into his room in the number she had intended to wear tonight, the wrappings on the gift of her virginity to him. When she came in and saw how dismal the room was, how it felt, how very unlike him… She put all her thoughts, her dreams and desires for tonight well off to the side and focused on him, taking him into her arms and holding him tight. What ever it was, it was bad, and her heart ached so much for his pain… Wishing she could take it from him. When he said he had to get out, to leave she simply went with him, no questions asked. It was chilly there outside but his jacket was warm, following him to the gate only to gently take the key from him for a moment, opening the gate and latch and letting him through first. The ocean was open and wide, as far as the eye could see and beyond, the stars floating in the clear sky and the moon a fat heavy disk rising over the mountains at their back. She held him as he cried, when he finally let his walls break under the pressure, a dam blowing out after years of abuse… She didn’t say a word, she let him cry and get it all out, her only sounds the soft song… Not because she wanted him to stop what he was doing but because she wanted him to know he was ok, he was safe in her arms, and she would always guide him back home. As he settled, was able into his own body, no longer adrift on the tides of emotions… She could feel it, there in the way he felt in her arms, the calming stucco of his heart…



His story on the doctor, why he couldn’t do the lecture and why Jacob had been there to step in, oh her heart went out to that family… To the good doctor himself, to his little girl that couldn’t understand what had happened, a situation she was sadly all too familiar with at the orphanage. She knew how she could help, how she wanted to help, and she was quickly forming plans in her mind to gently usher them around. His request for her to accompany him to the funeral might have sounded terribly strange to some, but to her she could easily see it from his perspective, what he needed… She knew he was asking her because he would need her there, to ground him and help keep him stable, and with good reason… He was hurting, the issue was close to his own wounds, and that wasn’t going to be easy on him to manage at all. She told him she would go with him, that he didn’t have to worry about anything, she would handle it all for him tomorrow… Right now the last thing he needed was to have to worry about the finer details, the little matters like transportation and proper mourning gifts like flowers or a food donation for the wake, she would handle all of that herself because it was what he needed… And right now? That was the best she could do… She couldn’t take his pain away, she couldn’t change his past, but she could make his today a little easier to bare… He moved to stand and help her to her feet, walking beside him as she gently linked their pinkies, a soft blush blooming on her cheeks as he took their hands and laced their fingers together as they strolled. It wasn’t long after that before he began to tell her about Cora, and to be terribly blunt she would have gladly hired a Necromancer to raise her from the dead just to kill her personally, intimately… She was not a person who had ever thought of murder before, even those who had done her terribly in her past she never once wished ill on them, not even Luna and Ellen… But Cora? She wished on Cora ever dirty, nasty, vicious thing her mind could come up with… And given her knowledge base of the anatomy now thanks to Jacob? It was pretty damned detailed and more than a little vivid… Cora should be grateful she was dead because if she wasn’t they would have to make a whole new layer of hell for herself for what she would have done to Cora if given a single sliver of a chance… She didn’t find offence in being compared to her per sey, it was more just an anger at how similar their stories were starting out to be, that… That was what steamed her carrot… How dare Cora even come close to the soft story she was having with Jacob? It was like a kick to the teeth in a way, if only because to her, what she had with Jacob was so much more… Still, right now he didn’t need someone who was angry or who wanted to go to war on his dead wife, he needed her… Just Rose… And she took up all that anger and rage and compressed it down, made it small and on her exhale, let it out… Calming herself almost instantly. It was a fine skill acquired over a long period of time. Besides… She could always get back at Ric at a later date, Cora was still alive but Dr. Asshole was still alive and well, and if he was hurting after the beat down Jacob gave him? He wouldn’t survive what she did… For the moment though? She just let it all linger there in it’s own little revenge corner of her mind, well away from her thoughts and feelings for Jacob, the way she was just supporting him… Letting him finally vetted his soul and everything that had been locked up far too tight for too long. She had been standing behind him with her hand on his shoulder, a silent support but also giving him enough space to talk freely, without being pressed or having his space filled… It was interesting to see how Anouk had come in, and it easily helped her understand just how important she had become to him, and she honestly liked her all the more for it… Anouk had saved him first… She had been the one to put Jacob on the road to healing… For that? She deserved something very special… She just didn’t know what to get a woman who had everything she could ever want… She was sure she would find it sometime, in some place, but for right now? It was just him and her…



She slipped into his lap, gently making a place for herself there with his help, nestled in his lap while she shared the warmth under the jacket with him. She had something to say… A hard truth perhaps, something that she was afraid would hurt him but it was something she needed to say, and something he needed to hear… She might be the only one who knew the whole truth, the fact about Cora and Kace, the feelings there… Because of that she wanted to point out two very clear facts to him… She was honest when she said that it might hurt, might even sound cruel, and God she didn’t want to hurt him when he was already raw… But perhaps these truths might heal something inside him, perform the stitches of his wound for it to heal, after all… What If’s and wonders can keep many doors open that should have been closed a long, long time ago… She told him first about Cora, trying not to get too distracted by his fingers on her lower back and the gentle feel of them there, explaining that Cora… Well Cora never loved him, not really, you can’t hurt someone you love that much. It was infatuation, perhaps enamored towards the end before Kace was born, but never really love… She could feel how it hurt him for a moment but she had a feeling that this wasn’t a new truth to him, perhaps it was one that had lingered in his shadow, one he hadn’t dared to turn and face yet… “The book you gave me says you can fall in and out of love sometimes… Other times it just the once and it’s forever… I think your feelings… You were sincere… You were loyal and honest… She just didn’t have it in her to be the same back… That still doesn’t make it your fault, or any short comings on your behalf, not everyone has the same heart as you…” She said gently, knowing that she wasn’t done but trying to soften the waves she had set loose, she didn’t want to tip his boat after all. The fact of Kace though, that was even more obvious than the truth of Cora, that Jacob… Well he had been the victim of a Cuckoo… The fact he said he knew it though make sense… Though the fact he still blamed himself hurt her, and she told him it was no fault of his, you can’t force something that’s not there… Even now, the wound Ric had left on him was incredibly deep, it would take a long time to heal… Until it did? He never would be able to bond to that little boy, and not for any fault of his, and given the situation… He was really doing wonderfully by a child he knew wasn’t his own, having him reared with his own family, surrounded by what she was sure was a lot of love and understanding… He needed to give himself time to heal, that he was far from a horrible person, and that right now… Tonight… He had made a big step in the right direction, he had opened up and let a lot of that pressure and pain off, admitted truths he knew in the back of his mind but had never faced… Now he could start to move into the light, to float up to the surface of his internal sea, and she wanted nothing more than to support him in that ascension. She smiled gently at his words, gently running her fingers down his cheeks for a moment, moving in to lightly run her nose along his in a gentle eskimo kiss. “Trust me… I’m a Student Doctor…” She said with a little bit of a tease, just something she knew would make him smile, even if just a flicker it was still a start. “But even if I’m not? The amazing thing? Is that we can try until we find the right thing… Nothing is perfect and we don’t have to be… Just be you Jacob… The right way will find you when you are ready…” She would say softly before they settled into a warm silence between them, the sounds of the waves caressing the shore, the bell on it’s ship and the occasional splash of an orca breaking the surface on the hunt…



His hands over her heart she confessed to him her feelings, things so raw and new, that fragile little seeding that was waiting there… It could be nurtured… Grow into something strong and resilient… Or it could be crushed under his boot and while it would still exist it would never grow again… Either way it was a risk to tell him but one she wanted to take, no matter how he felt in response he deserved to know, and after everything he had told her? She wanted him to know he was loveable… That she loved him, wholly and completely, for being nothing more than himself… Broken and chipped, a little bent and shattered, but he was still hers… She loved all those broken pieces, she wanted to help him put them back together, to be the love that glued the shards back into whatever he wanted to make of himself from this day forward. She didn’t need him to say it back, she told him flat out he didn’t even need to feel it, that she loved him just… For the sake of loving him. Nothing more, nothing less, he didn’t have to do anything… Just to exist… She felt him remove his hands, the way he tucked her in closer so she wouldn’t get chilled, her heart pressed to his… His hands cradling her cheeks as he spoke, that little smile there was so precious and perfect, it told her more than words that he would be ok… She smiled just at what he said, her honey and moss colored eyes lighting up a shade there, knowing how happy it made her to just see him smile… She didn’t do it with intent, it just happened, they made each other happy that was without a possible shade of doubt… She shivered just a touch at the caress of his thumb over her chin, listening to his words, the way he called her beautiful… God help her she would never get used to hearing that… She blushed when he said she was smart, witty and silly, funny and the bit about the carriage. Her own smile spread and she giggled with him as he laughed, remembering how she had been unable to resist it, her fingers reaching out to curl into his hair. “Well, to be fair, you did find one… And she did definitely give you a run for your pocket change…” She teased. After all, a wood nymph was what she had felt like there with him, and she had certainly treated him like she was one. Just the memory alone made her lick her lips subconsciously… His continued praise just made her blush all the more, and if not for the way he cradled her face she would have had her head dip, she’d never had so much praise at one time… Nothing so sweet or caring, and even if he didn’t know it, he was just making that little seed of love for him in her heart grow all the more. She liked ladybugs, they tended to land on her all the time when the weather was nice, and they were always a happy little companion out doors… But what really made her heart tumble and spin was when he said he admired her, when she admired him so incredibly much, it felt… Indescribable… She moved in to kiss him then, something soft and fragile, incredibly sweet and more than a little perfect in the moment… It lasted forever… It lasted for only a second… It was too good to last and yet they did… When it ended as all good things must it was a gentle parting of lips, a sweet farewell but not a goodbye, they would meet again…



She curled in closer to him, her head on his shoulder, his on hers… The quiet night… The gentle sea… The cold wind and the warm sand… She began to tell him about her past… Her biggest fears and how they were both intrinsically linked, the two events far too close to ever be separated, and all within such a few moments of each other… Months between two grand traumas… Was it any wonder they stuck as deeply as they did? She also wanted him to know she had her demons too, her fears, things that had cut her… Scarred her… That she was far more alike to him than he might have first thought… That fear of childbirth and to be used as a battery in Arvandor, God knew she had been used at the later for the Opium, and the former… The former was so deeply ingrained in her she had no idea if she could ever actually overcome it… She heard his words, his arms around her as he held her close, and she was surprised to find she needed it… She’d never told anyone before, no one knew but one or two of the Dames at the orphanage, and she had no idea she would feel as torn up as she did talking about it…How his arms around her anchored her, gave her the strength to talk about it without breaking down, without submitting to the fear of memories… She was grateful he wasn’t looking, there was such stark fear there, the shadow of absolute terror that had clung to her even now… Why she had so many walls built up to keep everyone out… What was strange was that she was fully aware of the man who had molested her as a child, that he owned a small ranch outside of town where he grew drugs, opium and marijuana… Cocaine leaves and many various mushrooms… He had gotten out of prison two years ago and set up out there with the money he had made off of her, and he did a steady business, providing drugs for the hospitals and some on the side for those who indulged on a more personal level. She never went out of town that way, she stayed very close and in public areas, always keeping to herself… She wasn’t afraid of him now, now as an adult, she was well pas this… Preferred age… But that didn’t mean she wasn’t careful for any of the other children. Thankfully they had castrated him there in prison for his crimes, no one would be raped again, no one would die… But that didn’t mean anyone trusted him with children. He was more of a… Necessary evil… One they would supplant and permanently remove as soon as someone else came in who knew how to grow the plants many relied on. Moments later she told him about the young woman, a girl really, who had died in child birth… Who she had tried so desperately to help but as a child she knew almost nothing at all, she had only just started to read the books on herbology and that wasn’t enough to fix what was wrong, no where near… She had watched her slowly die with the baby still inside, there was nothing anyone could do in that house, nothing to be saved… She felt him shift to look at her, lifting her own head to see him, fingers gently stroking along his neck. “I’m not sorry… Without it I never would have started to read those medical books, I never would have been aware of my abilities, I never would have become stronger… I never would have found my way to meeting you, I never would be here, now… Falling in love a little more every day with you… We’re both full of war wounds and shrapnel, but we’re still here, we’re walking and we’re making our way into that light… We’re there, Jacob… We just need to turn our faces up to the sun…” She said, returning that soft squeeze of her hand, and sadly it was then that she knew they needed to go inside… He would catch a cold out in this wet air and he also needed to eat, to warm up and so did she.



Fingers linked they walked back to the Inn where they split off, him to the common area to warm up while she found his plate and reheated it while making him a cup of tea that would promise sweet sleep when he closed his eyes, bringing both out to him where he sat by the fire. While he nibbled she sat at his feet, warm and comfortably there, her head against his knee as she watched the fire snap and pop. She knew right now he needed some quiet once more to eat, and she didn’t blame him for not being able to get much down, when you’ve had a night like this everything inside is sort of knotted up. She was proud of him for trying and grateful he was getting something in him, the last thing she had seen him eat was the little snack pack from lunch and that was no where near enough. She was letting her thoughts float around before she heard the gentle rapping and went as still as a doe scenting a wolf, her heart pounding as she heard Dr. Fealon speaking, and given she was small and tucked up against Jacob she was pretty sure he wouldn’t see her… She just had to stay still… When they were done talking and Dr. Faelon said goodnight to her he would have heard a soft squeak and a very, very bashful reply as she poked her head around the side of the chair, cheeks flaming. “Goodnight, Dr. Faelon, sweet sleep…” She said before letting her head thunk against the chair with a soft groan. Well… So much for that… And they were really honestly trying to be very… Private? Her cheeks were still rosy when she looked up at him and shook her head. “I know, he’s sharp as a razor… I just… I don’t…” She sighed softly… Shaking her head a moment. “I want to respect your privacy… I don’t want to be linked to you unless… Unless you want me to be… Unless your…” Ready… Ready for what though? What was she afraid of? Being called his sweetheart? His girlfriend? Partially yes… She didn’t want him to be linked with her unless HE was ready to make that step… Not because people say them together in some rather intimate or warm moments… This was their secret, one she would keep until he revealed them, because this? This wasn’t hers to share… For all she loved him, was falling in love with him a little more every day, that did not mean she owned him in any context… She didn’t even label what they had now in fear of either jinxing them or upsetting him because he felt she was moving too fast. He called to her and she reached up to him, the movements he made were unexpected and the strength in them, oh God… Her breath caught and her nipples hardened under his jacket as he began to lead her up the stairs… The farther they got the more her heart pounded, the delicate scent of apple blossoms surrounding her, her breath short and fast… She had asked to become his lover tonight… Was he taking her there? Now? Was he going to take that final step with her and show her the world? She was a wreck of sensations and emotions, a little fear and a lot of excitement, plenty of arousal and more than a little need… When he hesitated by her door though oh her heart felt a sick lurch, but she would understand, why not? He had just had a terribly rough day the last thing she wanted to do was push him… It was only moments later when he walked past her room after a small hesitation and her heart virtually sung in her chest, her fingers curling in a little tighter about his, her heart racing all over again deliciously. Once in his room she could still see the darkness of it, the candle about to expire in its own wax, the chill of the room settling in around her… Even so… Even so she felt warm… Deliciously so under his jacket and a big part of her… Was just too hot to ever really feel the chill… Not around him.



He released her hand then, turning her around so she was against his chest, her back to him… She shivered deliciously in his arms and he could tell she was already aroused just being near him like this, the way her breathing hitched and caught, her heart thudding beautifully behind her breasts… There was a sweet little quivering moan as he moved her hair to the side, moving with it as she exposed the delicate column of her neck to him, nails curling into his jacket as he whispered against her ear… Her hands coming up to cradle his cheek and rest over his ass, nails curling in over his slacks, letting her head lull against his chest… “With all that I am…” She whispered back to him. She did… She trusted him with all her fragile pieces and her resilient ones, the broken and dirty chunks and those that were still untouched, every part that made her who she was… Was his… Completely and in utter and perfect trust… She felt his hands move, the sound of silk being drawn through cotton, that delicate rasp of sound that made her ears twitch… When he placed it over her eyes she bit her lip, a catch of her breath as she smelled his cologne on it, the smell of his own masculine nature under that… Her nails curled in tighter as she instinctively rocked against him, not out of fear but desire, without her sight everything else was heightened incredibly… “Promise…” After all it should be good for both of them… Right? So if she wasn’t enjoying it, then it wasn’t right, and she wasn’t about to have their first time be botched because she didn’t say anything. There was a soft little laugh when he whispered for her to relax, a sensual smile curling the corners of her lips as she caressed his perfect back end. “This feels too good…” It was a delicious sort of tension, not one out of fear but just the unknown, the possibilities… Like that tenseness you feel before opening a gift you’ve been waiting for… She followed his guide to the bed, feeling it against her knees and slipping up into it, crawling across the surface until she felt she was close to the middle, spreading out so she was on her belly as he had asked… Good God… Her heart was going to burst… She’d… Maybe peeked a little at some of the… Illustrations in the back… And she knew more than a few that could come from this position… She was almost quivering by the time he came to rest on top of her, nails digging into the bedding under the pillow, bottom lip permanently caught between her teeth… She heard sounds then, little things, but that wash of magic? Given her current mindset and who she was with, the ivy didn’t just climb up, it bloomed as did every other plant for a good hundred feet… Even dead things, ready to be cut down trees and long since given up the ghost plants were suddenly alive… Vividly so… Trees bearing fruit and flowers blooming their hearts out…



She heard the gentle scratch of the needle then, familiar with the vinyl and their record players, they had one growing up and had played many a song on it in her life… But never something like this… She’d never heard something that sounded so… Earthy? Primal maybe? It was sophisticated yes, but there was no missing the primal beat there under it all, the kind that made you want to rock your hips… Was he trying to kill her? Honestly her heart was going to explode already! What was she missing in that book that he knew which she didn’t? She knew about foreplay… Obviously she knew what went where… Still, she had asked him to become her lover and she was already aroused at the possibility so…. What was all this for? She had to burry her face in the bedding when she heard the sounds of buttons, a zipper and belt, struggling down a whine as she knew… Oh God she KNEW he was getting undressed… She was ready… Very… Very ready for him… God if he just so much as touched her there chances were she’d explode… Something else followed though… Corks or lids… Something opening… Then the sweet scent of rosewood and ylang ylang, her head swimming as she breathed it in, letting it blend with the scent of him in the room… When he straddled her she couldn’t help it, the first real moan she had ever had slipped out… Deep and incredibly erotic, throbbing with need as she gently rose up under him, hand sliding back to grip his thigh with her nails lightly digging into his skin… “S-should I take my bottoms off f-first?” She stuttered around a moan, thinking he was going to take her right here, right now… Slide into her vice tight warmth and take the gift she so badly wanted to give him…Her toes were curling as he lifted her camisole up, feeling it tug under the firm swells of her breasts, hearing his question… She reached down and pulled it off slowly, letting him catch glimpses of the tattoo that was slowly gaining color on the fringes, letting the shirt fall to the side… She would find it later… Maybe… Who cared? She piled her hair up high on her head then, giving him plenty of access to her skin, her heart still thundering and thudding in her chest like a manic stucco… Even more so when she felt his erection against her ass… Just being reminded of that was a reality check for a moment… He was huge… Thick and a little on the longer side, and she was well aware that first time was going to hurt, and just feeling him there… Remembering how tight his finger alone felt… All it took was that one kiss and her mind running rampant… Those soft touches along her body and she unraveled rapidly, a sudden cry of pleasure as she climaxed without warning, fisting her fingers in the sheets as she cried out against his pillow, her face suffused with pleasure and sweet anguish as she shuddered and twitched under him. She lay under him quaking as she moaned over and over again, little jerks as the waves rose and crested on her, her heart thudding slowly while her breath stopped became little more than pants… That sensual flush on her cheeks as her whole body grew warmer under his hands, suddenly soft and sweet, not a single line of tension… There was a knot or two in her muscles, things that hadn’t sorted themselves out yet that she hadn’t managed to get around to, places that would melt her into the mattress when he got to them… “You… Really have no idea… The effect you… Have on me… Do you?... A-all you have to do is… Touch me… And I swear I… Unravel faster t-than I can control…” She panted around shuttered pants, fingers curling into the bedding while her free hand, throaty decadent moans of pleasure as he continued to give her the first massage of her life. She ended up shuddering more than once, rucking up under him to press her full sweet ass against his groin when he found a spot that made her quake, and those random kisses… Oh he had her in the palm of his hand… A kitten in the sun under his fingers as she melted into the bedding, torn between sexual need and the sheer pleasure just being drawn from his touch, the want… The fervor to feel him inside her wasn’t abating, it was getting stronger the more he touched her, kissed her neck… And yet another part of her was trying… So hard… To wait… She held out… She remained under him though her hands were far from idle, at times coming up to dig her nails into his ass when he found an incredible good spot that had her moaning his name and rocking up against him, toes curling into the bedding as she panted. Other times they slipped around to the front, to trace up and down his arms where she could reach, to trace her nails softly over his ribs and lower, sweetly stroking over his rock hard cock through his shorts… Not enough to break him but enough for him to be very well aware of what she was thinking of… To make him moan in pleasure as he was making her…

[Deleted]

...they had settled back into the Inn.. into its warming embrace.. the fires though not as full and flickering as they were earlier.. had not completely gone out yet.. just their bright orange coals sending out a soft glow over the room around them.. no doubt the owners of the Inn would stoke them up during the night.. to keep the place as warm as it could be done.. especially being this close to the water itself.. he had sunk down in the chair there.. she had heated up the meal.. he was still slightly on edge.. still a bit bristled.. though if he were honest with himself he felt better.. deep down.. the weight.. that ungodly amount was not completely there.. a large chunk of it had been broken off with her aid.. with her help.. she had done a lot for him on this one particular night.. she'd helped him to tear open the porly done stitches.. to rip into the festering wound.. to clean it out.. to stitch it back up..to allow it to heal properly.. and he just felt lighter for it.. his head was heavy.. his eyes still quite red..

he accepted the meal with a smile.. a little nod of his head.. he was hungry but.. he knew he had to take it easy.. his stomach was a little up and down what with all the stress he'd been put under.. taking a few bites of this and that.. it was surprisingly very good for reheated food.. though his attentions were taken when Faelon appeared there at the top of the stairs.. he himself moved to stand and the two of them conversed a little.. namely about the funeral.. the arrangements and when it would be.. it wasn't a long talk.. just a check in more or less.. before Faelon offered his good nights ..to both of them no less.. his brow raising a pinch at her sudden squeak.. before the good Doctor was out of sight once again.. he chuckled a touch .. taking another drink from the whisky laced tea there as he turned to look to her.. catching sight of her blush.. the soft colouring on he cheeks.. -.. don't worry about it.. -he whispered.. giving a little shake of his head-.. You're my student.. there's no way you couldn't be linked to me Rose.. in one form or another.. as for the rest..

-he paused.. downing what was left in that cup there before he reached to place it upon the mantle piece.. his gaze.. that soft blue and green wandering over the trinkets.. the bells and whistles..thoughtfully-.. how about we cross that bridge when we come to it.. -.. it wasn't an If we come to it.. it was a when...he stretched out his arm then.. to her.. his hand waiting to capture hers.. -.. Come.. -just one word.. all on its own.. before he would feel the softness of her fingers and he would pull her suddenly to her feet.. the movement swift and with an unnatural strength.. his gaze lingered upon her a little longer then.. before he turned.. guiding her up those stairs.. the place all but deserted by this stage.. they walked past the bedrooms.. so very many doors.. mostly silent.. maybe a voice of someone talking in their sleep.. snoring from another.. the gentle glow of lanterns burning.. perhaps some were still studying.. or had a thing against the darkness.. he paused slowing as they reached her door there.. lingering for perhaps a moment too long.. was he stopping there to leave her.. had he enough for tonight.. he had enough reason to come to that conclusion..

he'd been through the stress wringer well and truly.. but no.. he continued on and he felt her fingers squeeze in.. his own interlacing .. curling that little bit more around hers before he lead her into his room and he allowed the door to close behind him.. the darkness enveloping them both...he placed the key down upon the small dish near the door.. releasing her hand before he span her so her back was pressed firmly against him.. he whispered into her ear.. asking for her trust.. thanking her for reminding him what butterflies felt like.. and it was true.. she had.. she had awakened that side of him.. one that he felt was long since dead.. he truly couldn't have seen himself with another woman after Cora.. the opportunities were there.. the women that threw themselves at him..practically the day after Cora had passed.. all of it.. together just soured the whole idea to him.. he couldn't take it.. and didn't.. shutting himself off completely to the opposite sex.. he worked.. and worked.. barely slept.. just existed.. until he walked into that lecture hall.. begrudgingly taking up the position as a tutor again.. and his eyes fell upon her.. how she stood out from the rest.. almost like a beacon really.. and it had nothing to do with how she looked.. it was something else entirely..

something just took a strangle hold upon his attention.. and made him step up.. it made him take note of this petite young woman.. this eager witty beautiful little bug that stepped up to him.. to ask about being his student.. she didn't throw herself at him.. she didn't flash him.. she didn't flirt.. she wasn't overdone.. she was just.. honest.. and yet here they were.. in the darkness within his room.. blindfolded.. guiding her to the bedding there as he went about lighting the fire within the hearth...a little music..a little magic play..some oils and his clothing was removed slowly.. before he settled down upon her.. her lithe little body fitting just snug between his thighs.. it would be then that he'd catch onto that first real breathy moan of hers.. his lids half closed at that and his head dipped for a moment.. he blew out a quiet breath.. in his mind though he was cursing up a bit of a storm in response to what that sweet sultry little sound did to him.. he reached down to begin to slide that sweet sheer top of hers up.. her stuttered question made him smile.. -.. mmm.. no.. not yet.. soon though.. very soon.. -he whispered as she would have felt his fingers gliding up along her sides.. waiting on her to remove the top completely..he caught sight of the change in her tattoo though.. how there was colour coming into play.. and if he were of a right mind he probably would have questioned her about it.. but mm.. not right now.. his attention was elsewhere..

he had rocked forward as she pooled those lush golden locks up high.. his lips pressed to that soft sweet spot on the side of her neck.. his hardened cock rubbing just barely against her ass in the process.. he did not expect her to break so suddenly though.. that sudden cry of pleasure how she gripped those sheets with white knuckles.. crying out into the pillow there.. the trembling.. the quaking beneath him.. another kiss ..just as light as the first-..Thats it.. just let go..-softly- you couldn't be more perfect..-he whispered right into her ear there.. before he slowly moved to sit back up.. the oils splashed onto his hands.. rubbed together for warmth as he began to rub them along her skin.. feeling the smoothness.. how soft she was.. those few knots.. the little bits of tension.. it wasn't hard ..he didn't push into her with any great force.. this was simply to get her to relax.. to enjoy.. plus he also just desired to touch her.. his head tilted a little when she spoke on him having no idea on the effect he had on her.. that all he had to do was touch her and she'd just unravel faster than she could ever control..

he chuckled a little.. his smile growing further as his hands slipped down to that narrow waistline of hers.. he paused..leaning forward once more.. his lips just beneath her ear there..-..breathing.. its the one thing ive known how to do since birth.. -he'd intentionally rock his hips down when she gripped at his ass with her nails.. a hissing sound occurring..applying enough weight to the soft rounds of her ass to push her into the bedding a little harder-.. and yet I still manage to forget.. when I see you..-he fingers continued to wander.. she scored his arms.. his sides.. his thighs.. practically everywhere she could reach.. before she managed to grab his cock through his cotton shorts.. he couldn't have been harder if he were completely honest.. it just about ached every time she touched..

in as much as she was struggling with the desire of wanting him.. he was equalling that easily.. it would have been simple to just pull down those sheer panties of hers.. making short work of his own pants and diving up into her.. the thought along caused his heart to tumble and his cock to throb all the more.. but no.. not now....he had to square off his mind.. he had other ideas.. at least in the short term.. he grit his teeth down.. almost subconsciously rocking against her ass.. as if his body had ideas his mind had not quite caught onto yet.. the massage was soft.. warm sensual and sweet.. it lasted for quite some time.. enough to melt just about anyone.. he began to slide down her body a little.. out of her reach.. she'd feel his fingers capturing the waistband of those sheer panties of hers.. slowly working them down over those lush globes.. his breath would audibly catch as they were more or less revealed.. oh he just had to touch her..the sheer sight of her made his throat catch.. made it incredibly dry.. he worked them down her thighs at an almost painstakingly slow pace.. touching.. caressing as he did so.. his lips would press to the back of her knees.. her ankles.. before he would toss that fabric aside..

leaving her completely and utterly bare for him.. he shifted off the bedding then.. plucking up one of those bottles then.. plucking the cork out of it once more.. the next sensation she would feel would be that of the oil splashing down against the dip of her lower back.. just a slow warm creeping.. he'd trail it lower.. dribbling that rose ylang essence down over her ass.. it would trickle down between warm and wet.. -.. fuck you're beautiful.. -he'd whine softly.. placing that bottle back down upon the table there.. kneeling at her side.. his fingers would capture the slight pool of oil upon her lower back.. spreading it out.. and down over the globes of her ass ..kneading it into the firm soft flesh.. gripping.. holding.. clinging.. not hard enough to hurt.. but firm enough for her to take note..

one hand would slide down between those cheeks of hers.. lower.. dragging the remainder of that sweetly scented oil with him.. he'd exhale a little when he felt that heat.. her cores warmth just emanating from that sweet little pussy of hers.. he'd rub the oil along that slick slit of hers.. before he'd dip a finger between..feeling his way.. a breathy moan of his own would sound in appreciation..-.. incredible.. so.. so wet.. -he'd whisper almost inaudibly.. he'd circle that exposed little pleasure bead of hers.. flicking it with a knuckle.. before dipping lower to circle that tight entrance.. and then back again.. it was a simple tease.. never staying in one spot.. not at first...rising back to her clit.. applying a bit of pressure.. circling it.. rubbing just lightly back and forth.. listening and watching for her reactions and working with her.. before a single finger would dip up into her.. into that tight little hole.. he'd groan softly..

just exploring a little.. slipping in and out.. in and out.. before it would be joined by a second.. just his little finger.. stretching her a bit further.. though not terribly uncomfortably.. just enough for now.. -.. Rock against me Rose.. take as much as you want.. -he'd whisper.. giving her the go ahead to roll and grind those lush hips of hers.. to lift her ass and force it back down into the bedding.. without warning though he'd use that free hand of his.. and he'd land a firm spanking upon one of those well oiled ass cheeks.. gripping and rubbing it a mere second later to ease the sharp little sting.. before he would do it again.. this time landing on the opposite cheek.. leaving little red marks.. whilst his fingers continued to glide in and out of that oil and pleasure slick pussy of hers..the sounds were delicious.. she was incredibly wet.. aroused.. the haunting throbbing beat coming from the record player.. the breaths.. the moans and groans.. if anyone did happen to go past his room they'd certainly wonder what he was getting up to.. though the door was well and truly locked.. he did however not ward it.. forgetful perhaps.. his fucking her.. with those two fingers continued.. growing only a little further in intensity.. curling at the end to add that spark.. his thumb though.. whenever she grinded down particularly hard would press equally as so against that tiny bead.. that was her reward for really giving it her all.. that addictive grabbing.. that pleasure that was almost a little too much.. and yet with just the right doses.. left a person wanting more.. and more..-.. Cum for me Beautiful.. -he would whisper through almost gritted down teeth..the sounds.. the scents.. all of it was driving him crazy.. the desire.. the need within him only growing all the more for it..

he would ride that sweet climax out with her.. making sure she tipped over that edge.. for the second time in this sitting.. before he would slowly.. slowly pull his hand away from between her thighs.. dragging it across her ass.. -.. Roll over for me baby.. -he would ask her.. waiting until she had sunk back down on her back there before he would lift up and straddle her once more.. this time.. that hardened cock of his would nestle down between her slick wet thighs.. he would bend down over her.. his chest coming into contact with those stunningly beautiful breasts.. feeling those hardened nipples brushing against his skin.. making him shudder.. his face was just above hers.. looking down to her as she remained blindfolded..-.. You are so fucking gorgeous.. do you realise this.. -he'd whisper.. his breath.. whisky laced would brush against her cheeks.. her chin before he would just claim those lips of hers.. parting them open as his tongue dove deeply down into her heated depths.. stealing her breath away.. tasting all she had to offer.. it was sheer passion driven.. heated.. harder.. wanted and desired.. his hands slid down whilst their lips remained locked and he cupped those lush tits of hers..

feeling their weight against his palms before his fingers would fan out and curl in.. gripping.. holding.. grabbing.. his thumb and forefingers would seek out those tight hard buds.. rolling her nipples between them.. tugging.. tormenting.. teasing the ever living fuck out of her whilst his hips rolled against her.. just about saturating his shorts in the process with how wet she was.. the mixture of her own sweetly scented cum and the oil.. . the kiss broke suddenly as he breathed out heavily-.. Fuck.. -he hissed almost..he was so close to just throwing caution to the wind.. So fucking close.. he trailed his lips away from hers then.. dragging his tongue down along her jawline.. the gentle curves of her neck.. nipping at the skin every so often.. tugging with his teeth.. before his head would bury between her breasts..so many kisses.. a soft sweet sticky trail left by his tongue..before he would capture one of those nipples.. lashing it.. nipping it.. suckling it.. thoroughly enjoying those sweet well rounded globes..whilst one had his mouth attached.. the other would be being tormented by his fingers.. his touches.. before he would inevitably swap.. going between them often.. squeezing them together..

before he would make his way down.. blowing his heated breath across the lines he was leaving with his tongue.. cooling her heated skin in the process..he'd pause nearer to her navel there.. pressing his lips beneath it.. drawing up onto his knees as he moved to sit up a little..-.. part your thighs a little wider for me.. -he'd whisper.. sinking down between them.. getting quite a lush view of her from this angle.. the soft supple planes of her body.. the dip of her stomach..the rise of her breasts.. the way the expressions crossed her features.. he leant in a touch.. to blow sweet breath across those slippery wet lips of hers.. just a little.. just lightly.. before he would part them.. but not with his fingers.. no.. with the very tip of his tongue-

[BadInfluence]

It’s always hard eating when your upset, but she was glad he was trying, even something small was better than nothing at all. Besides, she trusted her teas and even if she had laced his with a bit of whiskey to help ease his frayed nerves, it would be more than soothing enough with the licorice and chamomile to help overcome any unsettled business in his tummy so he could sleep peacefully. Dr. Faelon had come down and honestly she thought she was well hidden by his knees, but the angle he was standing at there on the stairs allowed him a glimpse of some very small and pretty feet, hearing him call out to her… Oh yes… That caught her out, made her squeak just a bit in surprise, blushing against Jacobs leg. She was honestly trying… She had never had to be sneaky before, never had to be covert or sly, so this was all very new to her. True, she didn’t have to be, but in her mind? A teacher and student don’t exactly cuddle before the dying fire… Couples do though… And she was trying to spare him a connection to her in case he wanted to remain… Untethered. “It’s the fear of being connected to you in a way you might not want that worries me… Dr. Faelon isn’t exactly a bag of hammers, and I’m worried of you being linked to me in some unsavory way, that’s all… My reputation can’t be hurt unless I make a mistake in my current path, but you?...” He could get a lot of unsavory things related to him if people thought the worst of their relationship, and while in her mind she could chalk what they did up to teaching her a different part of the ah… Anatomical process… That didn’t mean everyone else would see it that way. Even though they weren’t lovers, at best they were well… Something but nothing that serious, they shared touches and kisses but nothing else, nothing physical at least… So that had to count for something… In her mind, it definitely did, and it was just another reason why she wanted to keep him safe from a bad association. What he said a little later though… That made her blush a touch brighter, her fingers curling into his jacket a touch, wondering… Just what could be meant by that? Did that mean he might, at some point, want to be linked to her in a way that wasn’t educational? She wasn’t sure she should even allowed herself to think that, hoping for things was the fastest way to get your heart broken and your dreams shattered, and right now her heart was vulnerable enough… Sitting there in his chest, completely out of her reach and her control, beating next to his where it had chosen to stay… “Today is a Gift… Worrying about tomorrow ruins it…” She said as her way of saying she understood what he meant, reaching up to take his offered hand, fingers curling into his… That sudden and strong movement that had her on her feet also made her knees go weak, that little word nearly undid her and had her heart racing all over again, curling her fingers in against his hand just a little tighter…



How could he NOT know what he did to her?



She followed him up the stairs, wondering if he was going to become her lover tonight, such a small thing she had asked for… At least to some but to her she was asking… And offering… The world. Her virginity was something she could never get back if for some reason things between them went horrible wrong. It was a gift, unreturnable, and something that meant a great deal to her… Something she had originally planned on being buried with, her interest in men, in sex in general non-existent… Then she met him, this incredible elf who had in the span of a second changed her entire world, just by talking… It was like the moment their eyes met her path was decided for her, laid out in cobbles and earth, no longer the random meandering she had enjoyed her entire life before… She loved him… Loved him more and more as each hour ticked into the next, finding so many amazing treasures inside him, another reason to fall that much deeper in love with him… Her virginity was a gift she wanted to give him, and only him, because no one… No one would ever, ever, make her feel this way but him… Only him. These thoughts swirled in her mind as they took the stairs, wondering if he was really going to take her tonight, or if… Something else? He had had such a terrible last few hours, some good had come of it but there was more than enough pain to make any pleasure seem shallow and unworthy, and she understood if tonight just… Couldn’t happen… Or… Well even if he didn’t want it to… After all he might only be comfortable with her in this style… Not as a lover but as a friend who could ease some sexual frustrations without becoming too intimate, too… Familiar… She was happy with what ever came of it, she might want for one end, but that didn’t mean she would be ungrateful for anything that did come of it. After all, God knew she loved his touch, he could shatter her like a bubble with the softest strokes and oh… Jesus Christ… Did she ever love it when he made her shatter… When they paused by her room, even if her heart felt a little sinking feeling for it, she would go to bed and not blame him for it. She would have turned to open her door, to bid him a good night and crawled into her empty bed to sleep, probably not peacefully but… Still sleep… Instead though he just passed a moment before bringing her past it, her heart speeding up to thump and jump double time, her cheeks taking on that soft rosy flush as she followed him. Lord she would follow him anywhere, into any fire or heaven, the driest deserts or the most lush rainforest… If he would lead her… She would be right beside him for all time… Once they entered his room the feel of a soft lingering sadness still sat there, like the echo’s of smoke in a room, his emotions lingered on the air before he spun her back into him. Making her gasp and moan softly, her heart thudding deliciously as she felt the strong hard planes of his chest against her back, his arms around her… All it took was just a small touch and she was already getting sweet for him, that delicate scent of her arousal on the air, like apple blossoms in spring… The tie was new, all of this was new, and she went into it without fear… Did she trust him? With everything she had, everything she was, and everything she might be… She didn’t trust… Ever… Life had shown her early on that trusting people did nothing but hurt you, causing you pain and misery untold, and no one ever had to pay for it but you… Yet with Jacob? She handed him her trust without hesitation, knowing what it would feel like when someone broke it, how it would end up breaking a part of her… But she knew with him? It would never come to pass. Jacob was her knight in well worn armor, the prince who cares for his people and his kingdom, the selfless wanderer who brings joy and peace where ever he goes… He was everything to her, every little girls dream and fairy tale, every grown woman’s fantasy and dark desire… He was made for her… Like she had been born just to find him, to meet him and become his friend, to explore this world at his side… It was the one thing in her life that made her really, truly feel like she belonged when from her infancy, she had always felt out of place…



Laying there in his bed had her mind going like a storm, the book he lent her had more than a few pages, hell entire chapters devoted to bed play… From foreplay areas of it to sex and back again, not a single stone left unturned, not a drop untasted on those pages… That book had made sex into something of a cross between a fine science and poetry and she had a very creative mind and more than enough aptitude to learn it very, very quickly… Even so it didn’t prepare her for what he did, straddling her like that had her arching up against him, pressing her ass against his groin on sheer instinct… The moan that followed couldn’t be swallowed up by the music entirely, oh no, that deep… Breathy… Throaty little moan was sheer pleasure from his hands on her skin, the way he was touching her, sliding her shirt up… It was so much worse than any drug could ever hope to be… She asked about her bottoms then, her words catching on a stutter as she was on an incredible high right now, curiosity and wonder coming together under the intensified reactions of the blindfolding… She never would have thought the loss of one sense would make everything else stand out on such a high… She took her shirt off and let it fall where it did, trusting she could find it when they were done with what ever deliciousness he had planned, feeling like a balloon about to pop. Honestly those shorts were so thin they were incredibly sheer, growing transparent over her slit where it clung due to her arousal, the mounting pressure… She snapped at that kiss to her neck along with the way he pressed down against her ass, feeling his huge cock nestled there in the delicate cradle of her rear the way it was, throbbing… It was all she needed to just fly off like a pop rocket, shooting into the stars and crying out sweetly, gripping the blankets tightly as she rocked up against him with her head buried in the pillow. She almost vibrated under him, such sweet little trembles and quakes, like a tuning fork he had just struck. His words came through a fog in her mind, making her blush and moan even as she slowly floated down, wondering how he could be so…. Just… He defied every word she could try to place on him, the way he made her feel, even now… Shifting slowly to earth through the ashen flakes of her orgasm the words he whispered to her made it that much sweeter…



As her first massage she knew nothing would ever compare to this, feeling his strong knowing hands finding every knot and tense point on her back, the smooth long strokes that stretched her spine out deliciously and left her whimpering in sheer delight at how it wall felt… Oh she was soft under his fingers, that perfect mix of muscle and fat on a woman, where it just encouraged the hands to explore more… Like touching silk or velvet… She had to tell him what was on her mind in that moment, that he must not know what sort of effect he had on her, just being around him… In the woods for example, just pleasuring him there had been more than enough to rock her off and leave her weak in his arms, and now… Now was no different, feeling his girthy erection pressing against her ass with each down stroke was enough to make her bite her lip repeatedly, her body instinctively rising up… Toes curling… It was lush and torture all at the same time. She heard his soft laugh and her lips curled into a smile there, her head tilted to the side, wishing she could see him for a moment… Just the smile that was surely on his lips… She shivered when he moved in, feeling his warm breath wash over her ear and along her cheek, and there… Oh her own smile grew and the blush on her cheeks made another appearance before he rocked his hips down when she reached back to grab his ass, a sharp sweet gasp and a deep throbbing moan as she felt her fingers curling in instinctively as she lifted up against him, she couldn’t get over the insane sensations that it caused… Like she was making love to him just… Sans penetration… It drove her a little wild, reaching back to lightly drag her nails down his skin, leaving soft pink marks in their wake as she struggled with the sensations that washed over her… When she found his cock it was like hot silk coated steel, even bigger than before and bucking in her hand in a way that made her whimper and lick her lips, wriggling her ass under him in invitation… Honestly they both wanted it… She knew it… He knew it… And yet… As much as they did they both knew it wasn’t the time… Maybe because they were both romantics and wanted it to be special… Maybe it was out of respect for the funeral tomorrow they held off… Of maybe there was another force there, gently whispering for them to wait, to hold off just a little longer… Even so, that didn’t exactly curb the desire that was eating them both alive, feeling as if she were burning up from an incredibly high fever only he could break… Her one solace was the way he touched her, married desire and sheer relaxation into one being, and after a time she was about as stiff as a wet dish towel… She was utterly soft beneath him, damn near catatonic with soft little moans and sighs, her hands leaving his skin to rest under the pillow… She was more relaxed than she had ever been in her life, and while the want, the need to be with him was still there… Oh God yes that was a fire that could never be slaked… It was at least tempered by how amazingly protected and loved she felt in those moments, like she was the center of his world for some reason, and all she wanted to do was bask in the moment…



It was with a startled little sound that she felt his hands going for her shorts and she moaned, lifting up to give him access to them, the gentle elastic giving easily over her feminine curves of her ass. She was wet, warm and sweet, like honey in the sun she was there… Ready for him to take… She moaned that heady decadent little sound as he began to slide them down, touching her the entire time as he went, making her break out in goosebumps and tremble over and over again… God the things he did to her… “Jacob…” She would moan softly as he kissed and touched, places she never thought could feel good were suddenly these amazing little zones of pleasure, one that made her moan and smile… Little gasps… She was ticklish behind her knees and that would earn him a sound that was a cross between a giggle and a moan, her toes curling as her legs bent a little, a smile on her lips that was all for him… She felt him shift, wondering what he was getting into again before she heard the soft clink of a bottle… The pop of a cork… “FUCK!” She’d suddenly cry out as he dripped it onto her back, causing her to arch like a cat, nails digging into the bedding as she felt it slide down… Lower… Over her ass and between her thighs… “Please- Jesus yes-” She gasped and writhed, turned on beyond anything she could have imagined, just completely thrown by the feeling of that warmth dropping onto her back… Dribbling down between her thighs… Her mind instantly imagined it as his cum there and she gave herself up to the imagery… Imagining him thrusting behind her only to pull out at the last minute and splash his hot cum all over her back and slit, branding her as his, an invisible territory marker that made her his and his alone… “It feels… Like your cum there… On my skin… Hot and heavy… Like a brand…” She panted and writhed before he began to touch her, and sweet God the way he was handling her ass, the pressure… The firmness… The sheer masculine dominance in those moments… All tempered by his own decadence… “Fucking Christ oh My God…” He made her swear repeatedly, a fine beading of sweat on her brow as she gripped and tugged at the fabric as if her life depended on it, because of not the bedding… He would look less like he had an itch and got himself and more like he lost a fight with a snow leopard… “Please don’t stop…” She panted, wriggling and writhing as he man handled her ass in a way that had that coil inside her winding tighter than a steam powered spool, white hot and ready to snap…



When he dipped lower though… Yeah good intentions can go fuck themselves. She cried out sweetly in pleasure, trying to muffle her sounds in the pillow as she arched up against his fingers, their gentle exploration enough to make her actually tear the bedding. Each time he gently brushed over her clit she jerked and jumped, moaning and panting, sweet throaty sounds and decadent little mewls as she trembled… Tried to remain still… To let him take pleasure from her… To give it back… “For you… Only you…” She panted and writhed, reaching down between her legs as she gently propped up on her knees, giving him that rich sweet view he craved… The sight of his fingers exploring over her, the oil glistening on her skin while her core offered up its own nectar for him, the flutter and pulse of her core as her arousal grew… Her fingers lacing over his a moment before he slipped into her and she cried out his name in just blinding pleasure, nails gently biting onto his skin to leave little crescent marks, her mind going nearly blank as she felt him inside her… His fingers were beautiful, his hands well shaped and full of expression, and when inside her… She felt full to bursting but she was finding it was too delicious to pass up, something about that invasion felt so right, so… perfect… She thought one was… Idea… Two? That second one slipped in and she was suddenly aware between the difference of sensations there, being full and then being… Stretched… The latter was… Addictive… It stung just enough to be really, really delicious, that sharp little cut of pain that made everything else even better. She suffered a massive shudder at his words, wondering if he knew just what the hell that sounded like, what it made her think of… What she gladly imagined… His fingers were his cock instead and she threw into it fully with a desperate cry from bite swollen lips, rocking back against him as she let instincts take over, the hypnotic roll and dip of her hips as she rode his fingers… Virgin or not… Once that event came to pass it was obvious she would be an exceptional lover, nature had crafted her for sex even without her knowing it, generous with her pleasure zones and how easily she could climax… The way she knew how to rock against him was purely instinct, she knew how to dip and grind, discovering if she tilted just a little… She could use his fingers inside her to hit that spot he had on their first night and she wasn’t ashamed of it, she used everything he gave her and returned it to him, growing wetter and wetter around his fingers… She was panting, writhing as she rocked and dipped, her body a slave to his… The tempo of the music, the heat of the room, their hearts… All of it was telling her to let go, give up and give in, to let her body rule… And she did… She let herself give up and with a deep throaty moan she rocked back on him fully, taking his fingers to their base and there would be no missing the tell tale flutters and heavy pulsing that she was right there, ready to jump… She was loosing herself in him, in the fantasy, imagining his cock inside her… That she was pleasing him with every stroke and dip… She had forgotten how to breath properly, little gasps and pants, shattered things barely formed… What came next though? That had her rock back deliciously hard and the sound that came out of her was something like a cross between an yelp and a moan, something impossibly decadent and rich, and far too obvious that it was one of pleasure… Her skin blossomed beautifully under his hand, a red print the exact replica of his fingers and palm forming there, a delicious little welt… The next strike was met with a sound and a word… “YES!” It was a throaty confession, all moan and pleasure married into sound, the truth… She liked it… She liked it a LOT… Enough to where she was shivering and flushed with goose bumps and yet she wouldn’t pull away, she dove down harder against his fingers, rocking and grinding against him as she felt his thumb slide over her clit with each motion.



When she came it was hard… Almost violent really… She went stiff and her core tightened up and pulled him in, locked up like the vice of a black hole, the pressure was deliciously intense inside her… More than enough of a hint to how rewarding it would be to fully dive into her and feel that all over his shaft when the time was right… A promise no man could ever resist… Then it just… Exploded… The cry started from her core almost, boiling up through her belly to her chest, ripped from her throat by Hanali herself as she shattered with a furry she had never felt before… It was delicate, sweet, throaty and more than a little perfect as she came. Her core gave up his fingers, only to pulse and suck furiously at them, coating them with her sweet climatic honey that would dribble and drip to his knuckles… Gather at his wrist… Drip down from there… It wasn’t a flood or a gush but there was absolutely no mistaking the way he had made her cum, that creamy sweet fluid coating him the unmistakable proof that he had given her something far beyond a regular climax, something deep and rare… She twitched and shook like a leaf in the wind, each moments in perfect unison with the pulsing inside her, the rhythm he had started that still dragged her down… Made her tremble… Slipping down boneless into the mattress as she felt every muscle spasm deliciously, making her moan over and over again, well lost to sensations and to him… To herself… Floating in a dark space created by him that she languished… Lounged and just… Existed in until she began to sink back into her own body, feeling every twitch, the slow vacancy left by his fingers that earned him a pathetic mewl of regret… Roll over for him… Little words, right? But the meaning behind them was… Exponential… She felt her heart skip and jump, wondering if he had finally had enough, if his will had broken… Was he going to give in? Would she roll onto her back and find him entering her? Tearing her? Making a part of her his… Forever? When he came between her thighs she lifted her legs, hooked them behind his back, crossing her ankles there… Locking him within her soft embrace… “Please…” She would ask so softly… Her own need was as desperate and frayed as his, even if there was the gentle whisper, something magical waiting around the corner if they just held on… The need to join with him was growing more and more insistent… Like a pressure at your back, urging you forward, a silent nudge that was slowly getting louder… She felt his huge shaft sitting between her well coated cunny lips and she felt as if she could die in that moment, arching up so her breasts her flush against his chest as her nails found his back, long deep passionate rakes as she rolled against him. The soft whispered words as she rolled her hips along his shaft, coating him thoroughly through his shorts, bathing him in her decadent honey as if she could love him through this alone… She heard him… Her nails softening, gently soothing up his back as she reached around in the dark, gently finding his face… “A star has to be if she wants to accompany the moon through his sky…” She said back softly. He was the moon in her sky and she was more than happy to just be around him, to love him as they lay there in his bed, tangled up in each other… He kissed her then, and it was unlike any of the others before, they had been gentle meetings… Sweet and soft… Sometimes passionate but never quite like that, the way he dove into her kiss, his tongue conquering hers… This was hotter and harder than any before it and she melted under it, something about this side of him instantly made her soften and go virtually submissive, opening up her kiss to him with a throaty moan as she didn’t just enjoy it… She returned it… Arms curling behind his neck, fingers in his hair as she fisted her hands in those sweet thick locks, tugging them as she kissed him back just as desperately as he was her. Her legs tightened around him, locking him in nice and tight as she rocked against him hungrily, virtually fused against him as she learned everything she had ever needed to know in that kiss…



His hands over her breasts was the only thing that broke her focus, a sweet sharp cry as she dug her heels into his lower back, arching up harder into that grip. “More-“ She panted against his lips as he cupped and fondled her tits, making her moan and arch into his hands, going more than a little wild under him again. Honestly next to when he touched her clit this was her favorite place and given that before he hadn’t really had the chance to explore, this was, by far, the lushest thing they had ever felt… Het nipples were sweet and little between his fingers, her breasts just full enough to fill his hands but not overflow them, and incredibly responsive… Even more so as he began to move against her and she shattered hard and suddenly, crying out against his lips as she flooded his cock with another delicate sweet nectar bath like his hand had gotten, his cock would be able to feel each pulse and sucking motion with how closely they were fused… Just begging… Begging for one of them to give up… To give in… Her body doing everything it could to betray them both and offer him up sweet treats and decadent promises over and over again with each climax… As if her body were singing to him in a language only he knew, offering him the world only she could give him, a pleasure so deep and searingly perfect he’d never want to leave… She was still tossed in the waves of that orgasm when he broke the kiss off, the swear, God… God did she ever know… This was like being starving and sitting at a table full of food and you know… You KNOW you shouldn’t eat… You should wait… But the temptation… It’s there… Angry and demanding and all you can do… All you want to do… Is just… Give in. She tried to resist… For both of them… Though hell and damnantion if she was doing a good job of it, she could only offer token resistance at her utmost best, and that wouldn’t hold up to a spit wad… She cried out sweetly with each little nip and bite, her fingers still in his hair but sweeter, more loving caresses than a desperate need to anchor them together. She tilted her head up and away, giving him full access to her skin, soft hot murmurs of pleasure as he moved down… God she was so exhausted… Sexually she felt she couldn’t handle another orgasm, she felt utterly drained and satisfied, the aching need to feel him inside of her was more primal than anything else… To satisfy her mate versus needed more pleasure… She was so soft and warm under him, a serene smile on her face as she stroked over his skin, soothing any hurts she might have accidentally left in her passions… This was a glorious way to wind down she thought, peppered with sweet kisses and little nibbles, like dessert after dinner… And that’s exactly what she thought it was until he latched onto her nipple and she cried out in sweet surprise, her hands finding his hair and burring themselves in it as he suckled her, driving her mad all over again. “W-wait I d-don’t-“ She gasped and writhed, unsure of what her body was doing or saying, she was somewhere in the realm well past pleasure and into… Something she wasn’t sure of. It was… A little scary to her in a way, not in fear but rather the sort of anticipation you get when going down a hill and you know your belly is going to end up in your chest… She was glad he ignored her… He knew better than she what waters they were sailing in and he was perfectly aware of everything he was doing to her, knew how far to push and when, and she trusted him…



Of course… Even trust can’t save her from then way things started to build up inside her, it was almost terrifying it really way, she was feeling these shoots and sparks… Intense sensations from every lash of his tongue and nip of his teeth, all of them gathering and pooling inside her until she thought she was going to faint, it was too new… Too alien… The book from what she could recall didn’t actually explain this sensation… Not in a way she was able to find… “P-please Jacob… M-more…” She panted, begged as he moved from nipple to nipple, feeling that strange pressure building up… Getting hotter and tighter… Stealing her breath and making her heart stop more than once, arching and writhing, an alien in her own skin… He worshiped her tits like they were a goddess he adored and she relished it, she had never thought something she had simply taken as a part of her anatomy could feel so incredibly good, or make her so outrageously wet… Honestly she had left a sweet spot on the bed and saturated his shorts and then some, and still he had her going, still sweet and wet and all too tempting… When he released her breasts it wasn’t a moment too soon, her head had started to fog up incredibly and she felt faint… So very faint… Listless… A gentle kittle like mewl as he moved away… Letting her legs drop to the side as she tried to catch her breath, unable to get a full inhale, every time she tried he kissed her… Licked her… Left her writhing and moaning… Lost… Oh So lost… When he settled between her thighs she wondered if he was going to leave… Get up… Maybe he was putting on a condom? She’d heard of them before, they were used to prevent pregnancy, but if he was… She wanted the damn thing off… She could take care of her own body and he didn’t need to do anything that would stop the feel of him inside her… Skin to Skin… “Jacob… No… No condom… Please… I can take care of myself… I don’t… I just want you… All of you…” She panted, wishing she could reach him, he was still too far… She heard nothing… He said nothing… Just a soft blow of air across her clit that had her suddenly sitting up, only to feel his tongue between her thighs and oh sweet mother of god, what in the-…



“Fucking Christ!-“ She cried out suddenly as he began to eat her out, her first time with oral sex of course, and jesus fucking christ on crack did he know what to do with his tongue! He knew how to nibble and nip, when to capture her clit with his teeth and flick it with his tongue, when to go lower and sample her honey directly from the source… That rich fog began to settle in again, her head falling back on her shoulders as her body rocked and ground against his face, using his own skills and the movements of her body to drag it out… Why? She had no idea… something… Maybe someone… Was whispering to her that if she just went a little longer… A little harder… She’d find something incredible… Jacob was pushing for a goal… A set ending perhaps… And she hadn’t reached it yet, what ever it was, despite the fact she had at least six orgasms by this point and felt so raw and exposed it was a live wire… She languished, she felt as if she would die there with him between her thighs, every stroke of his tongue was like a whip and it burned so sweetly it had her sobbing… Towards the end there was no missing it, the wetness of his tie, the tears slipping out down under it to trace her cheeks as she begged.. Pleaded… Entreated… “Please.. Please I can’t-… I can’t cum again… I-“ He found the stroke then… That sweet clockwise rotation of his tongue over her clit that just destroyed her forever, falling back on the bed as she fisted her hands in his hair hard, her thighs clamping around his head like a vice as she screamed his name and broke…



La Petit…



Now THAT had been listed in the book, the queen of orgasms, the end game for any lover… It was a sacred place, not always reached except through exceptional skill and dedication, a deep trust between both lovers that allows it… She felt it start from the outside in, rolling deep and slow like saturated honey through silk, coating every little atom of her being in rich decadent pleasure… Sinking through muscle and sinew, into her bones and down into the very marrow, and deeper still… Into her soul it felt like, dragging her down into a blackness as rich as inked velvet and dark chocolate, her mind and body completely lax… She had fainted… It was a perfect orgasm and her mind and body couldn’t handle the sensations without shutting down partially, leaving her to feel every drop of it as she writhed and shuddered but not so much as to make it almost painful in it’s intensity… It lasted for several minutes easily, only coming around when he had finished, slowly… So slowly settling into her skin and bones, opening her eyes behind the blindfold, and realizing she was done with it… Reaching behind her head she undid it, slid it off and gently placed it on the side, tuning her head to look at him…To see him…



“I love you…”



She said simply, three little words but they held her whole soul in them, turning to him then… Realizing she had clawed him up pretty badly, not to mention torn a few strands from his hair, her cheeks flushing a bit… Not out of regret though, a part of her knew there was no way in hell she could have avoided it, she was all reaction no thought while he drove her nuts… Instead she would settle him down on the bed… Having him lay on his back as she slowly began to slide his shorts off, they were plastered to his cock with her cum and she more than enjoyed the view, leaning down to take his free’d cock between her lips and began to make slow and sweet oral love to him while she finished taking his shorts off… She lay between his legs, watching him the whole time, remembering every stroke… Every move… Every flick of her tongue, swirls of it under his shaft, the suction he loved… She knew it wouldn’t take long… No way in hell it could… After how tightly he was wound she knew if she hit all his favorite spots in the right order he would shoot off in minutes… That was in fact her goal, diving down onto his cock slow and deep, gagging on him over and over again… Reaching out to take his hands and guide them into her hair, a gentle, silent invitation to fuck her mouth if he wanted… Something she thoroughly enjoyed if he did, moaning and groaning around his cock as she fondled and rolled his balls in her palm before she would suck him off to the point of his own orgasm, taking every thick, rich sweet pulse deep down her throat. Was that her goal though? Hmmm… Partially… She wanted him to climax, to feel as she had felt, but that wasn’t going to be the end of it for her… Or him… No she just wanted to… Take the edge off… She was, by far, no where near done with him… She would shift up then, sliding along his body and kissing all the way up as she went, pausing at his nipples to nip and flick her tongue over them before she would move to his neck… To nibble and kiss… “Let me please you now…” She would whisper against his ear before moving up to take the tip between her lips and gently suck on it until he was hard again, knowing for Elves it was incredibly intimate, and outrageously arousing when their ear tips were stimulated… And for her? It was her way to warm him up without overstimulating his cock… Once he was hard again she would stop and slide down onto him, straddling him with his cock nestled between the slick welt folds of her cunt, as close to actual intercourse as they dared… She reached down to take his hands, to place them on her hips as she linked her fingers over his, looking down at him laying there in the bed. “Show me how to love you… Let me make you cum…” She whispered to him, sliding her hands along his arms, to gently stroke her fingers along his cheek.. “Let me feel your cum on my skin…” She would begin to rock atop him then, so slick and wet against his cock as she stroked him with her sweet cunny lips, keeping him nestled at her core while not penetrating herself… Giving them both what they wanted without venturing into an area that they weren’t sure was the right time for it… “Over my pussy…” She said, never having Actually used the word before but it fitted the moment for one, and two… She had a feeling those words together was going to be a delicious bit of fire for him…

[Deleted]

...he had slowly glided back up the length of her body then.. feeling the softness and the sheer heat emanating from her skin.. he adored the feeling of her beneath him.. though he did well to make sure he didn't apply his weight.. even though he wasn't extremely heavy.. he didn't want to hurt her.. they shared a kiss there.. it was deep and held such a grand amount of passion and desire behind it.. their wants met equally..at least thats how it appeared.. the need in the room hung lie a thick fog.. it was almost controlling in a way.. turning two very normal.. very straight placid humans into eager beasts.. his tongue trailed down along the curve of her jawline there.. the sweetness of her swan like neck..he palmed her breasts.. holding them firmly.. fingers fanning out as he lowered a little further.. his lips.. his tongue.. his teeth finding each hardened little nipple.. to torment and tease.. feeling her arching high..

feeling her buckle and groan.. those noises were pure heaven and hell all at the same time.. she sounded incredible..she sounded hot.. however it was also wearing on his resolve.. on his ability to hold back.. to not just draw those creamy white thighs of hers apart.. and just dive down deeply into her.. fucking hell.. the thought alone was driving him insane.. her pleas.. her desire for more just egged him on further.. he went from left to right.. twisting.. biting.. giving them both quite a good tongue lashing whist she wriggled beneath him.. he adored that soft warm body of hers.. she wasn't too thin ..she wasn't too large.. she was somewhere perfectly in the middle ..her proportions meant he had more than enough to grab.. to hold and to tease.. he slowly pulled back then.. hearing her breathing catching against the back of her throat.. knowing those inner fires were indeed burning just a little brighter.. so he cut them off.. at least in the short term.. his kisses.. his tongue trailed downward.. over the delicate rise and dip of her stomach.. around her tiny navel.. before he sunk down between her thighs.. getting her to part them just a little wider..

he was gifted with the view of her then.. of that slick wet slit of hers.. just begging to be touched.. to be tasted.. among many Many other things.. and he was just about to blow that soft heated breath upon that glistening skin..before her comment caught him a little off guard.. his brow rose a touch.. a lust heavy chuckle sounded..he smacked his lips together-.. mmm.. no.. no my dear.. -he whispered as he pressed his lips to her inner thigh there-.. I dont actually have any.. it's not really something well.. -he could feel the heat attaching to his cheeks there.. his mind was a complete foggy mess.. so he wasn't quite as articulate as he normally would be.. before he just gave up on trying to communicate with words.. and he blew that sweet breath.. watching her tense.. watching her body shift as she moved to sit up before he parted those sweet nether lips with the tip of his tongue.. and to say she was not prepared for that would be an understatement.. he heard her sudden shrill cry to the gods.. he couldn't help the smile against her skin there as his tongue went to work..circling.. supping.. curling against that pleasurable bead.. drawing it between his teeth to give it a tormenting tug.. a little lower.. dipping the tip into her.. tasting of her as he groaned ..the fog only grew thicker as his body tensed..he couldn't have grown any harder than he was..

or at least thats what he figured.. the aching was fucking incredible.. he would glance up to her every so often.. watching as she tipped her head back.. listening to her breathy groans.. her sweet cries.. feeling her body buck up against him as she began to rock and grind .. using his tongue and the slight roughness of his stubble upon his chin to her advantage..her plea.. that she couldn't cum again.. that she just couldn't keep going had him chuckle.. that sweet sultry little vibration coursing through her in the process-.. Cum for me angel.. -he'd whisper.. though he himself groaned a little louder when she fisted his hair.. those sweet thighs clamping around his head..he didn't give up.. he didn't pull back or even slow.. in fact the opposite.. he pushed that bit harder.. flicked that tongue a little faster.. dragged his teeth.. his lips.. all of it that much more.. until she just broke.. and she screamed out his name.. well if anyone in the house was even remotely curious as to what he was up to that night.. well they wouldn't be anymore.. that lustful cry would have had to have been heard from one side of the Inn to the other..

he felt every wave rumbling off of her.. the way her body tensed.. tightened.. stiffened before it slowly began to melt.. to more or less float back down onto the bedding.. his actions slowed.. matching her reactions.. before he turned his head just a little.. just enough to be able to place his lips to her opposite inner thigh.. an exhale sounded when she released his hair.. oh she'd certainly yanked a few strands out.. but he'd never complain.. never.. he settled slowly up onto his elbows as she reached back to remove the blindfold.. his gaze.. not quite as hazy as hers.. but certainly fogged up regarded her .. he shot her a playful wink-.. welcome back.. -he'd whisper in a deeper more gravelly tone.. her proclamation sent his heart on its own little journey then.. hammering away in his chest there.. a soft colouring crossed his cheeks there as he slowly moved up the bedding there.. coming to more or less collapse down beside her.. settling upon his side.. his free hand rose.. reaching to cradle her soft flushed cheek.. -.. There are so many things.. -he'd whisper.. his voice a little pitchy-.. that I would like to say to you.. but.. I dont know how.. -his brows furrowed a little.. he leant up a little.. his lips would brush against her forehead... he hoped she would be patient with him.. that she wouldn't tire of him being so uncertain with.. the world.. was it love?.. he thought he had been in love before.. he honestly did.. but it didn't feel like this.. and thats where his confliction lay.. that and well.. his morals were giving him a bit of a kick up the ass as well.. a talk was needed.. with a close confidant.. and soon.. the one who would certainly drag him down a different path.. or in the very least allow him to see things from a different point of view- ..You're incredibly beautiful.. inside and out.. and your patience with me.. and my.. inability to.. focus on.. -he motioned between them both-.. whatever this is.. -his brows furrowed a little.. he was trying to get the right words out and it just wasn't happening.. probably didn't help that his body was on fire from the inside out.. before he felt her hands upon him.. getting him to lay back upon the soft warmed bedding.. he shifted a little.. his head touching the pillow.. before he shifted up onto his elbows.. watching as she began to peel his shorts off.. his mouth fell open a little.. -..

Oh you don't have.. -he would go to speak to tell her that she didn't have to do any of this.. that tonight he wanted to focus on her before he felt those searing hot wet little lips of hers and his breath caught loudly-.. Fuuuck!.. -he groaned.. his head dropped back from his shoulders as he hissed through his teeth.. his heart all but lept free from his chest in those moments.. his chest stuttered as he tried in vain to take a proper breath.. his body had been begging for this for almost the entire time spent in that room.. toes curled under.. his body buckled.. falling back to the bedding as his hands rose to hold the sides of his head.. to rake back through his hair.. he would look down to her every so often.. catching sight of those sweet soft shell coloured lips devouring his thick hardened cock.. all the way to the base.. and the sounds.. oh fucking hell.. the gagging.. the suction.. the sudden breaths..

he felt her soft fingers upon his hands.. urging him to reach for her.. before he had both upon the sides of her head.. entangled in those beautiful golden locks.. he didn't need to be asked twice.. he accepted that invitation eagerly.. she'd feel his fingers curling in.. not enough to hurt her.. but enough to make her pause.. to halt her movements as he held her in place.. the muscles in his thighs flexed.. his lower stomach much the same as he began to lift his ass up off the bedding.. and he fucked that sweet little mouth of hers.. feeling the tightness of her throat as he nudged it before he diving that little bit further forward.. his groans came out shorter.. his breath caught as he hissed and swore.. his speed switched.. a roll of quick short thrusts followed by sporadic long slow dragging.. she'd have felt every throb.. every tremble.. and the closer he got..

the more he gripped her hair.. though when she rolled his balls against her palm he knew he was done.. he couldn't hold it back any longer.. there was just no way.. he shuddered..crying out there as he exploded..painting up the insides of her mouth quickly.. her throat.. tongue and cheeks.. his body jerked and shook with every burst before he released her head and he slumped with continual gasped breaths.. his chest rising and falling rapidly there as his body was coated in a thin sheen of sweat-.. Fucking hell Rose.. -he swallowed down ..blinking his eyes more than a few times.. he was sure he was seeing spots.. he blew out a few more breaths then.. murmuring a touch when she began to slide that hot little body of hers along his own.. such sweet smoothness.. he couldn't help but to reach for her.. his hands loosely resting upon her hips there.. fingers barely touching her ass..his body bucked though when her lips met his nipples..

he wasn't expecting it.. a gasp sounding before she settled in closer.. up nearer his neck.. kissing.. nibbling.. more or less spoiling him with her sweet touches..-.. mmm.. are you trying to kill me?. -he'd laugh weakly there.. his body was in that sweet spot.. relaxed.. the sharpened edge of tormenting her for so long was a bit more softened thanks to her hand.. her words came to him slowly.. though a little late.. before he had a chance to react he felt her lips upon the sensitive tip of his ear.. his lids snapped open and she would have felt his entire body stiffen beneath her-.. Oh God -he groaned.. the hold he had upon her hips tightened as he gripped her harder.. he swallowed as his eyes clenched closed-.. Fuck.. fuck.. -he whined.. forcing his ass down into the bedding there.. she was incredibly close to him.. and they were both completely naked.. this was dangerous territory.. and he knew it.. all to well..he could feel the heat coming from between her thighs against his own.. and in as much as he was begging his mind and body to work as one and behave he would almost subconsciously buck against her every so often.. gritting his teeth down.. that thick cock of his was hard in a matter of a moment...

she figured that out about him pretty much straight away.. those tips of his ears were his biggest weakness.. his eyes opened as he looked up to her there.. the way her hair toppled down over her shoulders.. how it framed her profile.. she began to shift over him then..-.. wait.. don't.. -he went to whisper.. though his words came out a little more than broken.. before she felt her position herself.. to slide his cock just between those slick wet lips of hers and he forced his head back into the pillow.. he whined.. the grip upon her hips tightened.. ok so he would take it all back.. earlier he was not facing dangerous territory.. Oh that didn't even come close to this.. This.. this right here.. was like.. warning bells and flashing lights territory.. his heart throbbed in his chest.. his hands shifted from her hips there to slide back over those lush swells of her ass..parting them as he gripped.. before he would slide back to hold her there in place once more.. his gaze lifted as he met hers.. their eyes lingering there.. locked..how easy would it be to get carried away.. to let that animal instinct just win..

he swallowed there as she asked of him to show him how to love him.. that she wanted to feel his cum on her skin.. before she began to rock against him.. his cock slid easily along that sweet slit of hers.. she was incredibly slick.. wet.. slippery.. it was a hell of a torment.. he groaned..his brows furrowed.. he whined once more.. almost clawing at his lower lip with his own teeth as he began to meet her movements.. he rolled her hips down as he lifted up.. the two of them grinding against one another.. his cock sliding the length of her.. up and back.. the tip teasing and tormenting her clit.. before it would dive down to linger there at her entrance.. giving her maybe a hint maybe a genuine idea on just how large he was and just how small she was.. enough to drag against her before it would slide back up to torment her further..

her words though.. those faint three little ones whispered together.. that it wasn't just anywhere she wanted to feel his cum.. it was on her pussy.. the first time he'd heard it uttered from between those lips.. well fucking hell.. did that tip him further.. he groaned.. his hips bucked harder.. lifting her this time a bit higher off the bed.. his grip upon her hips turned almost white knuckle as he looked up to her there.. green and blue with such need and desire.. matching hers.. one of his hands left her hip.. reaching around to grip the base of her neck.. fingers fanning out to force her head down to his as he claimed those lips of hers.. his tongue lifting to part.. to taste her.. though the kiss.. heated and driven was broken as the shattered breaths sounded every so often.. and the pair of them groaned.. the rocking.. rubbing.. grinding.. all of it only grew harder.. faster.. the sounds of skin meeting skin floated around the room.. beautifully matched by their own lusty cries.. god forbid anyone was outside the door in those moments.. it would no doubt stir jealousy in even the most skilled of lovers.. wanting to know just what was going on behind those doors.. -

.. Oh god.. Oh Fuck.. -he almost growled.. latching his teeth upon her lower lip there as he bit her.. not enough to draw blood but enough to give her a start.. to make her jump.. the hand left upon her hip shifted across to fan out.. pressing upon her ass.. she was coated in the same sweat as he was.. just that thin sheen..coupled with the oil from his earlier massage.. a couple of his fingers slid down between those beautifully plump cheeks.. feeling her body bouncing as he lifted and bucked against her.. -.. Fuck yes.. -he groaned.. it felt incredible.. her bodies weight.. that sweet slick little pussy.. her breasts crushed to his chest.. her lips to his mouth.. her tongue mingling along side his own.. those fingers just tormented her a little further as they brushed that oil up and down across that tight little star .. only applying any amount of pressure when she lifted.. when she grinded harder against him.. but not enough to enter her.. just to be aware of its presence..

cock to her slit.. fingers to her ass.. the two of them bumping.. grinding.. rolling and rubbing against one another..-.. I can't.. -he stiffened beneath her..his body trembled as his fingers fisted her blonde curls-.. I can't hold it.. -she made him break so easily.. his desire for her was unrivalled really.. so what was holding him back.. what was making him wait.. was it a whisper in his ear.. was it just his morals.. was it his insecurities.. his past.. was it a bit of everything?.. he released her lips as he forced his head back against the pillows.. crying out loudly as he just let go.. he just released.. all that fucking tension just poured from him as he coated that sweet hot little pussy of hers.. his breath stuttered.. his body all but broken as he groaned and hissed.. his hands slowly released their strangle holds upon her as they just wrapped around her tightly.. holding her to him there as he gasped for breath.. his lids hanging heavy as he looked to her.. as he ran his hands up and down her back..-.. Oh good god.. Wow.. -he whispered.. -.. just..-he swallowed-.. that was.. -he cleared his throat-.. there are no words

[BadInfluence]

Two very well grounded, stable and educated people can easily become absolutely unrecognizable when the right conditions are met, when the perfect storm forms and both parties are left in the middle… It wasn’t because Jacob was exceptionally pend up and would have jumped at any willing partner, no more than she was just curious about sex all of a sudden and would have settled with anyone she felt could do a good enough job, it was so much more than that for both of them. It was like match meets gasoline between them, it had been from the first day they actually met for the first time, talked face to face and made eye contact… It was a slow burn at first, something that started off sweet and warm like a candle, but over time it’s gained quite a bit of intensity, consuming them both and if she were honest… She gladly let the fire burn her because what she felt with him was worth going up in smoke for…



Just his kisses alone had her writhing and feeling a little too tight for her skin, they were so lush and heavy, decadent and more than a little head fogging! Like chocolate mixed with absinthe she felt more than a little drugged every time their lips met, more than a touch drunk but God she didn’t want to get sober, not when it felt like this… He made her go up in ash and she loved it, the sweet brutality of that kiss was all dominance and more than a taste of desire, hungry need and a sort of will to just consume her… She loved every minute of it. When it broke for him to trail down her neck she was so far down the rabbit hole she could only make soft sounds of protest, others of pleasure as he nibbled and nipped down the column of her throat, leaving her to tilt her head to give him all the access he could desire… Farther down he went, a trail of decadent torture as her body held the marks of his lips like a wolfs tracks in the snow, a predator of her skin… Her breasts felt beyond incredible in his hands as he shaped them to his palms, her nipples hard and sweet between his fingers as he touched her, stroked her… Gripped and fondled her until she was nearly ready to scream with want, and that, that was just the beginning… His lips attaching over her nipple to suckle nearly made her roll them and take him inside her there and then, it was far too lush to feel the heated wetness of his mouth over such a sensitive area, that rhythmic tugging reminding her of something instinctive… Something primal and sweet and far too heady… She savored every second of it, the way he nibbled and nipped at each sensitive peak, to flick and tug with his fingers over the wet little berries until she was raking her nails over his back… She was about to climax, it was there in every sound she made, the way she was writhing under him and pushing up against him. Oh she was on the cusp before he pulled away, letting that high heat slowly dip back down to a low boil, far from chilled but enough to keep her from flying apart in no time flat. Her breathy moans and sensual cries were all she could manage at the best of times with him, he had her brain incredibly wrapped up in warm gin soaked cotton, a simple slave to what he was coaxing out of her… A servant to him and his whims…



She had no idea of his struggles, how badly he wanted to just throw it all to the side and make her his, how the only thing keeping them from it… Was an unknown force on the outside that kept that paper thin wall of resistance up, that kept them waiting, like the moment… The moment just wasn’t quite here yet… Although to say she wasn’t frustrated by it was a lie, when they were both running this hot and hard, when the pleasure… The need was just there… Begging… Tempting… Waiting for them to take it… It was like having everything you wanted just under your fingertips… But you don’t grab it… It was maddening but at the same time… All rather incredibly hot… Like the forbidden fruit they both wanted to bite but they didn’t, they held off, and for some reason… That made this between them all the more incredible, knowing they could but they wouldn’t, wanting to share magic together and not just the pleasure of a good hard rut… As he kissed down her body she fully thought that he might have cracked and she wasn’t going to say no, God in heaven she couldn’t, not when she wanted it as badly as she did… All she asked? Was no condom… She didn’t want their first time to be handicapped or inhibited by some bit of skin to keep her from getting pregnant. She was more than capable of keeping her body as she wanted it, and the idea of a condom being slid over him, robbing her of the feel of him? It was tantamount to a mortal sin or worse… “Oh Thank God…” She breathed on a moan when he said no, that he didn’t have any and even if his words might be a little less articulate than normal, it wasn’t like she didn’t understand them… “Never… Ever use one with me…” She let out on a moan as he kissed her inner thighs, such an incredibly sensitive area of skin that was packed with its own little nerve endings, more than enough to make her writhe against him… Honestly he seemed to know her far better than she knew herself, just where to touch and when to leave her this climactically exhausted mess of limbs, she honestly doubted she would be able to ever… Ever walk right again… Every step would remind her of him and she’d end up in this state of constant semi-arousal. She was gently running the soft arches of her feet along his ribs before he suddenly blew that little breath on her molten hot core and she gasped, arching up like a cat would before resting on her elbows, suddenly locked in this position even though she couldn’t see… Though to be fair she wasn’t sure she would survive if she did… She almost didn’t when she felt the first lash of his hot velveteen length along her slit and she cried out sharply, God himself might even blush at the sound, it was just pure sweet sexual pleasure given a vocal frequency…. Her fingers found his hair and fisted in it hard enough to tear a few strands free, her thighs clamped around his head like a soft lined vice as her heels rested in his lower back, and oh sweet God… He was eating her alive in a way that desperately made her want to just rip his shorts off and return the favor, it was intense and incredibly pleasurable, left her completely mindless and acting on instinct alone… Hold anything back? Try to muffle her cries? Yeah those attempts which had been made earlier and kept anyone from REALLY knowing what was going on in here was blown straight to hell now. Her head had fallen back on her shoulders as she began to rock and grind against his face as he ate her out, the delicious semi-burn of that facial stubble was enough to drive any sane woman completely nuts, and she was no exception. Not even a little…



She was uninhibited and completely open, taking all he had to offer with open hands and returning it as best she could, letting him see and hear her… Her as she was, purely and sensually open, unfiltered and without restraints… She tasted like soft mint and clover honey, refreshingly sweet without being over the top, clean and maybe a little addictive if that was your thing… As she gripped his hair and held him to her core he seemed to go that much harder for her, driving her even hotter, higher than before and she was afraid of what she was feeling… Alien and new, not a build up like her other orgasms but not completely unlike it either, leaving her to beg… To plead with him… She couldn’t orgasm again… She had already had somewhere near six or something like that and she felt so overstimulated, raw almost and yet there was something there that just made her want more, like getting a good high but wanting that final nightcap… “Please… Please Jacob I-“ She pleaded, shaking her head from side to side before he went full tilt on her and she couldn’t have explained or expected what came next, what made the tears spill from under his tie to splash down onto love swollen tits and beautifully hard nipples as the vibrations from his voice shivered up her spine… She had read about it, she got that far but reading about it and experiencing it were entirely different things, and none more so than this moment… The Petit Morte, the little death, the queen of queens… THE Orgasm. The elusive, delicious high that makes all else pale in comparison, the arch di triumph of lovers… She had honestly thought she was done with her climaxes, she hadn’t even known you could have so many in such a short amount of time, only to be thrown into this… This piece de la resistance… She cried his name out in pure unadulterated lust and pleasure, people in the Inn would be waking to have a cigarette for them if not perhaps try and emulate what they had heard, because without a doubt that was one of the sexiest sounds anyone could have heard from a closed door… Did she care? Not in the slightest… He had brought that out in her, made her scream his name like a prayer, and she would never regret it… Even if it did land her in any sort of hot water though she doubted it… She might have screamed his name but no one knew what she sounded like in pleasure other than Jacob… They were safe… After all, courtesans weren’t exactly blue moons…



Of course all of this was in the back of her mind as she melted from the outside in, and from the inside out shortly after, every atom in her body felt like it had exploded and reformed in the matter of a trillasecond… She ended up just sagging bonelessly into the bedding, covered with a sweet sheen of sweat and oil, cheeks and the tops of her breasts beautifully rosy from satisfaction even if she was unaware of it… Lost to herself as her body endured the sweet jerks and spasms that accompany a climax, drifting on the sea of pleasure for several long minutes before she finally settled back into her own skin, a skin that was changed forever in ways she couldn’t begin to name… Only feel… With slow tugs she removed the blindfold to see him at last, the wetness on his chin from her climax and the soft sheen of sweat on his skin, the flush to his cheeks… His words earned a soft sensual chuckle from her as she blinked dreamily, completely and totally out of it for the moment, a gentle sigh… “Premature… I’m only half here… The other part is there in the heavens where you sent me…” The softest of words before she told him she loved him… Three small words but true, and not ones she needed, or expected him to return. She loved him for the sake of loving him, warm and selfless and without a drop of greed, her love for him was purely and entirely just for him… She curled up onto her side, running her hand slowly up and down his back as he cradled her cheek, moving in to rest her forehead against his… Feeling the soft little kiss a few moments later… His words before she reached out to take his hand in hers… Linking their fingers as she looked up at him through dream heavy eyes, moving up to gently kiss his lips, the softest of caresses… “You don’t have to say… Do… Anything… I love you to love you… Not because I expect… Want you to say it back... Loving you… It’s my own reward…” She breathed as she gave his hand a gentle squeeze. “This…” She said, repeating his motion with a warm smile, a little loving laugh. “Doesn’t need to be named… It just… Is what it is… It’s Rose and Jacob… Perfect just… The way it is.” She didn’t know what they were any more than he did, and she wasn’t in any rush to slap a label on it, it almost felt cheap to even try. They were friends… Student and Teacher… Lovers… All sort of rolled into one and she really… Really liked it that way… She adored being his friend, looking out for him and watching him smile and laugh, learning all these amazing things about him that he didn’t share with just anyone… She relished being his student because he had so much knowledge inside him, a world he took her into, taught and guided her through… He knew how she worked and it was amazing for her, their styles so very similar that they fell into the roll like dancers who had been together for decades… And the latter… This thing they shared under the cover of darkness… The sweet, tempting, alluring and more than a little decadent joining they partook of… It was just as valuable and priceless to her as the other two, something just between them and closed spaces, in private nooks and soft touches… It was soft and sweet, or like tonight when it was hard and fierce, but it was always… Always pleasurable… What ever they had… What ever they shared…It was theirs, and theirs alone, and trying to put it in a niche… To label it or give it a name… It was just cheap… If he loved her… He loved her…If he was only enamored then that was fine too… All that mattered was they shared feelings, it didn’t matter if it was of the same level, so long as it was there… What else really mattered?



She began to slowly move down his body, hungry for something she found herself more than a little addicted to, peeling his shorts off as he spoke… Her lips curling in a terribly sensual smile as she looked up at him, licking her lips intentionally, blowing a soft breath over the head of his cock. “Want…” She didn’t have to do anything, she knew that well enough, but this? Oh this was a want… A big want… Something she enjoyed immeasurably! When he swore and dropped back down onto the bedding she couldn’t help the rich laughter that vibrated up and down his shaft as she began to suck him off hungrily, savoring the taste of his precum and her own nectar that had coated him through his shorts, their two flavors mixing into something way too addictive to resist… Driving her perhaps a little bit into a frenzy as she worked him over, deep and slow, hard and fast… Remembering how he liked it in the woods, what made him tick and twitch, what took his knees from him… Deep and throaty she took him, to the base as she gagged around the head of his shaft, letting him revel in the tight suction gripping before she would slide up… Back down… Sweet slick slurping sounds, moans and panting breaths, sweet cries of pleasure around heavenly gagging as she relished every moment of it… Reach up only to take his hands in hers, to guide them to her hair, and what he did for her… Oh god YES. There was something really, really addictive about the way he fucked her mouth, perhaps because it was a precursor to what he would be like inside of her? Or more just because of the fact she loved how it felt? Either way she was hooked on it and she stopped when he paused her, letting him fully and completely take the reins from her, to fuck her mouth in the way that would please him the most… After all… It was an exceptionally good way to learn what really turned him on, what better way to teach her, than to show her? She took it all like she was starving for it, moaning and crying out in pure pleasure around his shaft, the sweet wetness of drool from having so many throat hits dribbling down his shaft to drip off his balls… Wet… Slick… Hot… Never a hint of teeth as she took him as if she had been doing this forever, rather than only twice, but deep down… When you love doing something you’re almost always naturally good at it… This was no exception… She dug her nails into his ass as he piston fucked her mouth, curling in and gripping, encouraging him to really unleash between her pastel pink lips… Only as his spasms grew closer together, his balls tightening up, the way his cock was jerking… She knew he was right there on the cusp, ready to fall over, and she wanted to be the one to push him… Her hand slid up from his ass to palm his solid sack before he lost it, surprised at the moment he came since it wasn’t deep down her throat but fully across her tongue, and more than just a little… It was… Thick… Hearty… A large amount that she swallowed again and again, taking each thick rope of hot cum along her tongue to savor it, letting it bathe her mouth and down her throat before he collapsed… She pulled off with a happy smacking of her lips, playing with his cum in the dip of her tongue to savor it like a fine wine, rolling it there before she swallowed the last bit with a thick satisfied moan. She still wasn’t done though, not yet at least, she gently gave his cock a tongue bath to make sure she hadn’t missed a single drop before she would let him fully relax…



For now…



She slid up along his body to rest slightly atop of him and to the side, her legs tangled with his as he swore… The teasing there… The way he bucked when she found his nipples… Glad he enjoyed it as much as she did, catching that hard little pebble between her teeth to flick and suck just as he had hers, taking what he had taught her and using it against him. She moved up from there a few moments later, peppering him with soft kisses and little love bites, soft caresses and loving touches before he spoke… A soft giggle sounding as she shook her head, moving up along his neck towards her goal, a very private and personal area on any elf… “Mmm do you want me to stop?” She teased before going up a little higher, along his jaw and up to his ear before she caught it, the sensitive tip between her lips. She knew it was just THE zone for elves, the book had given her a whole page and a half of it, and she was going to use it to her advantage…To urge his body towards an erection against without overstimulating him, the sweetest, most pleasurable way to urge a partner into round two… Oh she heard his sounds, made very, very good notes of it… They were indeed perhaps even more sensitive to him than to others? Either way he was rock hard between her thighs in just moments and she made very, very good use of it, settling him between her honeyed folds… She heard his words though, clear as crystal and she knew without a single shadow of doubt in that moment he wasn’t ready, not that he didn’t want to… He just wasn’t… On the same page as her. “Shhh… Trust me…” She whispered to him, settling him tight and sweet against her, making love to him with her body without taking him into her… Without breaching that final wall… She settled his hands on her hips with her fingers over his, holding him there lightly as she heard him whine, her head tilting to the side… Wasn’t it good? She was about to ask before he slid his hands down to grip her ass, parting them over his hips that made her spread fully over him, a blush and gasp in the silence as the sensations washed over her… He was huge… Beyond huge… And a part of her seriously doubted she could actually take him… Not without a build up perhaps? Like a sort of slow progression… After all his hands felt ginormous inside her, what then, would his cock be like? A part of her shied away, the still virginal aspect of her, made her scared… Honestly buried between her slick honeyed lips he still easily overflowed her, had more than a little left outside and considering her mouth was bigger than her core and he still stretched the sweet God out of her mouth? Yeah… He was a monster but oh… Such a delicious… Tempting one… It made her weak… Hungry… She looked down at him as he watched her, their eyes locking as she gently asked him to teach her, to show her how to make love to him…



Just a little shift would change it all…



But they didn’t… What ever was there in that paper thin wall between giving in and holding on, it was strong enough to keep it intact, to hold it off… She released his hands and slid her own up along her body, touching and exploring as he had seen that night he spied on her in the pool, the lustful sliding of her delicate fingers over her own body… Up to cup her breasts… To palm and roll them as he watched, finding her nipples and repeating what he had done to her, making her arch and moan sweetly… Touching herself just for him… A show she put on for his pleasure… She would continue as she whispered she wanted to feel his cum on her skin… But not just any skin… Deep between her folds, she wanted to feel him bathe her pussy in it, even going so far as to use the word for the first time… Sliding her hands up into her hair she perched over him, exposed and on display, pulling her hair up in her hands with her elbows to the side… Putting on a show for him and him alone… Slowly rocking over him as he began to teach her, rolling and grinding, feeling the tilting of his hips… She began to gasp and writhe over him, her body breaking out in gooseflesh as he teased at her clit, only to cry out sweetly when he dipped lower… Deeper… Feeling the head of his cock at her entrance… Good god she knew the moment they actually made love it was going to hurt… There was no way for it not to but…If afterwards it felt anything like this? She’d welcome that agony with willing and open arms. For right now though it just slipped an idea into her mind, one that began to grow and spread, feeding in the moment with him… He began to truly let go then, bucking up harder against her as he looked at her, their eyes locking as he began to lift her off the bedding. Making her mewl in raw pleasure as she writhed atop him, arching and crying out sweetly, as lost to it as he was… Her eyes were almost pure whiskey gold in those moments, looking down into his beautiful blue green set before he claimed her and pulled her down against him, her reaction? An instant ranking of her nails along his ribs as she matched all his passion and need in those lips. She suckled his tongue and nibbled, nipped his bottom and top lip, as broken as he was in that kiss but refusing to give up… To give in… Moans meeting, twining and melding, the two of them giving up all pretense of quiet and embracing the moment. “UnnfYesfuuuuu- Ohhhnnn…Mmmmnnn-!... R-right th-there! J-j-just like th-tha- FUCKINGJESUSYES!” She cried out as he began to pump harder up against her, digging her nails into his biceps as she came hard and fast atop him, that hard fast stroking over her clit managed to throw her hard left without much of a buildup… She rolled down hard and sweet against him as they goth just went wild in the heat of the moment, his fingers sliding down to toy with her little pink star was entirely new and yet she relished it, took everything in the moment and savored every second. She reached back and laid her hand over his, sharing in the touch of her newest little spot as he bucked harder and harder into her… Making her bounce and curl her toes into the sheet… Giving up she dug her nails into his ass again, unable to resist marking him up as her own, uncaring in the moment for any red line she left him.



“Cum for me my Jacob…”



She whined against his lips before he bit her and made her cry out, another white hot shattering over him as he began to unravel, his fingers fisting and pulling in her hair… Making her scalp sting in a way that had her crying out in raw pleasure as he began to cum, and that… That was when she shifted… Desperation and instinct… That first spurt exploded all over her cunt, bathing her in white hot sticky cum but it wasn’t just there she wanted it, oh no… She pulled forward and nestled him at her core, taking just the barest tip of him inside her, feeling her hymen stretch before… Oh… Oh what sweetness… If nothing else had sold her on why people have sex… If everything else had failed… The feeling of his cum shooting into her… The white hot jets of his pearly ropes bathing the virginal walls of her pussy… That… That would have been the straw that broke the camels back. She ended up breaking against him, falling on him with her full weight as she remained still, letting him unload inside her until every last drop was within her virgin core… To her it was just the most… Perfect way to end it… Intimate… Incredibly intimate and raw… Personal… She’d make moon tea in the morning but for right now… Right now she relished the sensations of his heavy cum inside her… And maybe… Just a little… That heady feminine rush of having her lovers cum inside her… She clung to him as desperately as he did her, her head in the dip of his shoulder, her lips pressing soft kisses over his rampaging pulse… She looked up at him a few moments later, as drugged as he was, her lips kiss swollen and her lids hanging heavy… A soft, dreamy smile at his words, reaching up to run her fingers down his cheek in a loving caress… “Does there need to be?...” She whispered back and held him close, reaching down to grab at a sheet there, pulling it over them… Dawn was a few hours off true enough but she had a lot to do in a little bit of time and she needed sleep… God knew there was no way in hell she could move… Not right now… “Sleep Jacob…” She whispered to him and she would gently, slowly guide him down into slumber with her, curled in each other’s arms as the record player slowly wound into silence and turned off…



She stayed there for three hours… Three beautiful… Blissful… Perfect hours and God… How she would have loved to have spent the whole night there, to see the dawn come in through the windows, to watch him wake up and look at her with a dreamy smile… But they were still under the cover of silence… Untethered and if she could help it, free of any entanglement of the romantic nature, wanting him to be as free to do as he wished as she possibly could help him being… After all, she wasn’t blind to the flyer, she knew there would be others… Women who would be throwing themselves at him day and night to get his attention and she wasn’t about to get between that, especially given that they might try to turn her involvement into something terribly nasty for one, and two?... What if someone he might love DID exist in that crowd and it wasn’t her? She wasn’t going to stop him from loving someone just because it wasn’t her… No… She was protecting him still, and always would, hence her leaving before the dawn… It was four AM and no sane person was awake, the stars still spun in the sky and the moon wasn’t even close to setting yet, the night was dark still and she had more than enough cover… She slid out of his arms with a smothered hiss and groan, feeling strange new aches she had never experienced before, then a moment later his cum dribbling down her thigh… Jesus Christ she had to grip the table as she ended up having a sudden sharp orgasm just from that… Knowing his cum had been in her… It was just… Incredible… She stood there and savored the guilty moment for a few seconds before she found her clothes, easily able to see in the dark and slip into them silently, heading for the window… She paused… Looking back to him there before she would open the window and slide out easily, sitting in the ivy for a moment before she saw what she was looking for, sliding down the pipe like a born squirrel… She went to the bush there, and with a gentle request and thanks, plucked a single blossom from it… Back up the pipe to set it on the windowsill before closing the window…



A single, white, flawless gardenia…



She was back down without a single person seeing her, she was too good at being able to slip around unknown, it came with being what she was… She slipped inside the building then and grabbed a robe and a towel, going ot the communal bathroom and locking the door behind her, and began to take a shower… Removing the scents of sex and cum from her skin so no one would know a single thing, easily forming a cover story for where she had been, that she had stayed at the ocean while Jacob had gone back to his room… It was only a partial lie, but had more than enough truth to it to keep anyone from prying, and given her apparent love for the ocean? Made more than a little sense. She rinsed and dried off, combing her hair and setting it in a single braid down her back, sliding back into her room without Kit knowing she had even been gone for as long as she had. She slept there for another two hours before she forced herself awake for a second time, sitting up in the bed and wondering if that naughty but amazing ache ever faded, coming over to crouch by Kit’s bed… “Hey, Kitty Kat…” She whispered, using a nickname for Kit she had just made up, something much more warmer and true to Kit as she was now versus who she had been. “Dr. Anikin asked me to go to a funeral with him but I don’t think it will be done by lunch I’m so sorry… Want to sneak out for an early breakfast with me instead and do a little shopping? I want to see if we can run into a guard I met last night who I think you’d like…” She said as Kit rolled over and nodded sleepily, getting up slowly to get dressed while the two of them chatted softly in the quiet early dawn, more than a few soft giggles as she described the guard who had given her his card… Why not? He was handsome and kind, and since he was a guard he would know his way around and be able to show Kit a good time, and who knew? They might hit it off and Kit could have a date or two while they were in town. It was a damn better connection than she was going to get with the piece of phosphorus that was lingering around like a bad smell.



She dressed in a set of scarlet colored velvet underwear and bralet top, again another influence from Anouk but good God did it ever look amazing against her skin, and it was so incredibly comfortable and just warm enough to beat off the little bit of chill that was coming in from being so close to the ocean. She slipped on a white silk chemise over that to hide the color before pulling on a sheer white silk button up with lace cut out around the collar and a smoky blue grey a-line tulle skirt that came just below her knees. It was incredibly precious looking with her little soft pink purse and matching kitten heel shoes, her hair pulled up in a loose high pony tail and just a little bit of lip gloss. Kit looked sexy as usual in a well fitted body con dress that was the shade of jade and really looked good with her green eyes and blond hair. The two would set out before anyone else was even wake, down to the cute little café that had been marked on her map, and settled in for some delicious breakfast. She herself had an egg, ham and cheese croissant while Kit went with scrambled eggs and biscuits with gravy, though they both had a cup of London fog tea while they ate. It was then Kit would see the same flyer than she had seen last night, about Jacob being loaded and up for grabs, only then did Kit mention someone must have gotten to Jacob last night… Whole Inn heard some serious bump and grind going on… Apparently even Ric had stuck his head out the door and was glaring up one hell of a storm before he slammed his door. She only laughed and shook her head, stating she had been down at the ocean after Jacob went back to the house to sleep and hadn’t heard a single thing until she came in to shower, but at that point it must have been over. Kit was a little disappointed, she wanted to see who it was, but they both ended up laughing as she shrugged. “He’s a grown, single man, if he wants to have a lover it’s his business. Certainly none of ours? ‘ She said friendly and Kit nodded her head, the two of them finishing breakfast as she explained what had happened with the funeral, her goals for the day… That she and Kit would meet up tomorrow morning again to get to the lecture hall together and get the best seats… They’d visit the hospital after the lecture… Things of that nature before they would get up to leave and she would pay the tab, catching Kit flushing and reaching for her purse but she waved it off, stating friends did stuff like that for each other… Right? With that they would head out and she would lead Kit to the office station where she had been last night…



Sure enough the same guard who had helped her was just getting off his shift, catching sight of them as she smiled and waved, and slipped the two of them together… Stating she had a funeral to go to and couldn’t show her friend around… But since he was off work and had been so incredibly helpful to her last night… She didn’t need to say more, the guard was looking at Kit like he was a moon hung calf, which Kit noticed and blushed quite prettily under… The two hit it off like peanut butter and jelly and she waved them off to go and have fun, she had a few other things on her mind to get around do, things that were resting in her little clutch… Her first stop? Was a toy shop she had seen that had the most beautiful dolls in the window she had ever seen, and once in the doors she picked out the one that was named Grace, just like the little girl she was intended for… It was a pull cord one with big beautiful eyes, but rather than talk it sung little lullabies, different ones each time the cord was pulled… It was also fully posable and customizable, it was literally the queen of all doll brands, and came with its own little trunk of clothes and accessories… Everything a little girl could possibly want… And something a father might not realize his little girl would need… And a mother too torn with grief to notice… She had it all packed up in a special box with a bow just for the little girl and paid the clerk before leaving, keeping the cost to herself, and headed down to the florist next… She ordered a mourning wreath for the funeral, made of lemon balm and purple hyacinth, lady’s-mantle and pansy… Rue and willow with zinnia… All flowers meaning sorrow and support, embracing the family in a time of pain… The last step was to order a carriage to pick Jacob and she up at the Inn at ten am sharp to take them to the destination of the funeral.



With all that said and done she took her gifts to the house of the bereaved, gently knocking at the door and stating she was a student doctor working under Dr. Jacob Anikin, that she brought small tokens for the family… She was given entrance and with that she handed over the tin of tea with instructions on how to make it, along with cinnamon rolls and small sweets to temp those with lesser appetites… She asked to see little Miss Grace who had come into the room when bidden, seeing Rose sitting there on the chair by the fire, a stranger sure enough but a kind looking one… “Hello Grace… My name is Rose, I work with one of your papa’s friends, Mr. Jacob Anikin… He told me about a pretty little girl living here and I wanted to see you for myself… Do you like dolls?” She would ask before the little girl would nod her head, remembering Jacob and slowly hedging forward, pausing when she was about a foot away from Rose… She would reach into her bag then and pull out the doll gift, a special box with a glass front with the doll’s name on the front, and handed it to Grace. “I lost my mama too a long time ago… I know how you feel and how strange the world is now, and I want you to know it’s ok to feel this way, that your thoughts are alright…” A child often feels quite lost in moments like these, and wonders if its ok to feel sad or if they should hold it in, pretend to be strong for the surviving parent… Children are incredibly selfless like that… She watched Gracy’s eyes light up at the doll and took it gently, carefully opening the case to pull her out, to touch the soft golden blond hair and the pretty teddy bear suit… The little bracelets and the posable hands… The big soft brown eyes just like hers with the long lashes… It was like a little grown up version of Grace herself in her older years… Grace had found the string at the back and began to pull it, hearing the lullabies start to play, sitting down on the floor right by Rose’s feet at this point. She would reach down and gently stroke her fingers through her hair as she spoke softly. “What happened wasn’t your fault… It was no one’s fault… Sometimes in our hearts, God calls us so strongly that we can’t help but listen, and we will find a way to meet him… I know your mama would have done anything to stay with you, but God, he’s a very… Very strong part of our lives… Very hard to ignore… A bit like your papa is for you… Some day, when you are much older, you too will her God calling and you will go to him… Up into the heavens with the stars and fluffy cloud houses, where you’ll see all the people you love… But not for a long, long, long time still Grace… Right now?” She said with a small smile as she lifted Grace into her lap and gave her a warm, soft hug, feeling the trembles and the tears start… Well that was good… It meant she was finally able to let go… Poor little thing.. “Right now… Every time your sad… Every time you feel lost… Alone… I want you to tell little Gracy… See… Dolls are magic… They hear your prayers and thoughts and they give them to the angels, and those angels? Will tell your mama all about you down here, and when they do, your mama will come see you in your dreams…” She said as she rocked Gracey gently in her lap, going from side to side as the little girl finally just let go and cried, rubbing her hand up and down her back softly until she had cried herself virtually to sleep…



She was setting Gracey down onto the couch with a blanket and her new doll, everything set on the side in its box when her father came out, a gentle finger to her lips before they would go into another room. Her words with the doctor were soft and kind, but also short, knowing as an adult… Grieving was very personal and she wouldn’t interfere any more than she already had. She offered him the tea tin and a cup of what she had already made in a pot, stating she was just giving something to help Gracey with the passing of her mother, and to confirm she and Jacob would be attending the funeral today… But most of all… If he needed anything at all they were there to help, and he wasn’t by any means, going through this alone. He had their support while in town and out of it, and all he had to do was write and they would be there. With that she left, looking at one of the clocks in the shops windows, and had enough time still to get back and get changed. She caught a trolly that was on its way to that rout and held on, ignoring or rather unaware of the looks and gentle whispers going on around her, simply keeping an eye out for her stop. Once she was there she hopped down and made her way to the Inn, easily heading up to her room and noting Kit was still out, a smile on her lips for the girl who she was sure was having the time of her life. She slipped out of her clothes and hung them up, they were still plenty fresh to be worn again before she left, and went for the black suit that would work as a mourning outfit. She pulled on the fitted black silk blouse and zipped up the sides so it clung to her like a second skin before pulling on a pair of black silk hose that were held up by a simple pair of garters on both legs, sliding on the pencil skirt over them and tucking the shirt into the band… She couldn’t freaking breathe without feeling how fitted it all was but rolled with it, reaching for the jacket that matched the skirt to pull it on, the sharp folds at the quarter sleeve mark and the black leather gloves… She noticed then two little gifts… A pair of black marry janes with enough heel to be proper but far more manageable than heels, and a black hat with a bird cage veil over it, absolutely perfect for a funeral… Had Jacob done it? She couldn’t smell his cologne on the air… But she DID pick up the soft scent of cherry… Anouk… She just smiled and shook her head, wondering if Jacob had let her know ahead of time perhaps? Either way she was grateful and let her hair down, forming a low chignon to the left before pinning the hat into place, lowering the veil after slipping in a set of twin black pearl studs in her ears.



She was done and waiting downstairs for Jacob to arrive, a cup of tea in a travel mug for him along with a little paper container of cinnamon rolls in her hands, just for him.

---

Doll

unders

day outfit

Funeral Suit

[Deleted]

..he had tasted of her.. supped of her.. drank all that she had to offer with pure unadulterated enthusiasm.. and he'd do it again.. and again.. and again when the moment presented itself.. without question.. he was growing further and further addicted to her.. he needed her.. all of her.. but it was so much more than this.. so much more than the physical aspect.. even though that played such a huge part.. like fuck.. who could possibly say no to that?.. She was utterly gorgeous.. her body was perfectly proportioned.. all those soft feminine dips and curves.. his heart ached.. along with the rest of him.. he slowly drew himself back up to settle in beside her.. watching as she removed her blindfold to look upon him once more.. it had been quite a little journey on this one night.. they'd shared secrets.. they'd opened themselves up completely.. leaving each other raw and utterly vulnerable to any attack.. yet the trust was rock solid.. but on paper it really made no sense.. they'd known each other for what.. a few days.. maybe a little more.. and yet they were sharing things with each other than they hadn't shared with some of their closest acquaintances.. it just felt right.. and thats why it worked.. neither of them could actually say why.. they just..knew..

she professed her love for him.. and although he couldn't say it back she understood.. telling him he didn't have to say or do anything.. that loving him was her own reward.. not to hear him say it.. his gaze lingered upon her own there.. he was oddly relaxed really.. considering all that they had just done.. even if his body was still as fucking tense as it could be.. he just felt.. calmed near her.. his forehead pressed to hers there.. his lids half closing.. -.. you're right..you always are..-he whispered softy.. before she began to slowly slide down his body.. her own softness rubbing against him in the process.. his breath caught when she blew that hot breath across the tip of his rock hard cock.. he tensed.. his toes curled.. he assured her she didn't have to do this.. though his words came out completely an utterly broken.. and more than a little weak.. before that one word broke through the lust filled fog that had since settled in his mind.. she wanted to do it.. She wanted to do this.. before she just dove down.. devouring him and he collapsed down onto the pillows there.. a groan ..a gasp.. a heated whine.. the swearing.. well he hadn't done this much in his lifetime he was sure of it.. and yet she seemed to have a knack for making it bubble to the surface..

the laughter.. the vibrations of her tongue and lips.. oh god she was just about killing him ..she knew just how he liked it. and considering it had been.. well.. years since anyone had paid him such attentions.. well it was like fucking heaven to feel and see it.. he'd glance down to her every so often.. catching sight of her shell coloured lips wrapped around his cock.. all the way to the hilt.. the gagging sounds.. the gasping and moaning coming not just from him but from her as well.. Fucking hell.. his heart just stammered there in his chest.. he hissed and grit his teeth down.. she guided his hands to the sides of her head and he didn't need to be asked twice.. he accepted that little offer graciously.. fucking that sweet tight little mouth of hers over and over.. in short fast little bursts that made the drool trickle down from her chin.. and then long drawn out thrusts.. dipping down into her throat to feel that catching.. that sudden and fierce suction.. all the while watching her.. he had such a firm grip in her hair.. almost pulling several strands from their roots..he groaned and gasped.. he swore and bucked.. he didn't want to hurt her.. and he was struggling a lot to hold back.. he knew he could easily just take over and ravage her.. but.. something was keeping him grounded.. or.. a little at least..

her fingers were felt rolling his balls then.. gripping.. palming.. rubbing..and he just couldn't hold it any longer.. she would have felt those spasms.. that throbbing before he just exploded in her mouth.. painting her up good and proper.. her inner cheeks.. her tongue.. her throat.. it was by no means a small amount either.. his chest stuttered along with his breath as he cried out.. trembling as he collapsed onto the bedding.. shuddering as she continued to bathe him with her tongue.. just a little jerk every so often as his overtly sensitive skin made him tense..he commented that she was going to kill him .. he was certain of it.. she was spoiling him immensely.. her little body sliding back up along his own.. she was so incredibly soft and warm.. he was more than a little sweaty.. he hissed out a breath and bucked when she dragged her tongue across his nipple before he laughed a little.. Fuck she was a tease.. he slowed and relaxed in response to her little kisses..her loving little nudges and caresses.. -.. mm.. no.. dont ever.. -in response to asking if he wanted her to stop.. he didn't want her to stop.. ever.. something new perhaps?.. in his mind.. an answer to the many questions that had arisen since he had met her.. he didn't want her to stop..

though before he had a chance to really let those words take root..he felt her lips upon his ears tip and he stiffened.. he tensed and growled.. the swearing was unavoidable.. Fucking Hell.. the sensations coursed right through him with those small attentions.. something so simple.. something so seemingly innocent.. held such a grand power over him.. he just buckled underneath it.. he did feel her shifting though.. as his hardened shaft settled between those slick wet lips of hers.. he pleaded with her that no.. not yet.. and she hushed him.. telling him to trust her.. his eyes had opened.. to look up to her there.. oh the sensations.. and the heat..his breath just kept catching there in the back of his throat.. he forced himself to swallow.. nodding his head a little..-.. I do.. completely.. -and he did.. he trusted her more than he trusted anyone.. his hands settled down on her hips there.. feeling the smooth curved skin before she began to move.. to rock against him.. he tensed.. unable to help the whine that surfaced.. unaware she wasn't sure what it meant.. wether or not he liked it.. he liked it too much.. that was the problem.. it was like putting cake under the nose of someone on a diet.. he gripped her ass in response.. spreading those cheeks of hers to open her up just a little more to him.. he remained still for a time there.. just letting her take the reigns.. allowing her to control the actions..

their eyes lingered and locked though.. sounds of gasps of heated murmurs and breathy groans mingling with the haunting melody of the music.. it was beautiful.. all of it.. and the sight of her there.. above him was fucking incredible.. she asked of him to show her.. how to make love to him.. his heart tumbled.. he lifted his ass up off the bedding then.. just a little.. making use of his lower stomach muscles and his thighs as he began to rock against her.. sliding his cock up and down that sweet tight little slit of hers.. dragging the tip against her clit.. before it would torment her entrance.. just enough pressure for her to feel how wide he was.. how hard he was.. how smooth and hot..he was.. all because of her.. though when she upped the anty.. sliding her hands up along her body.. reminiscent of the little spying session at the pool.. he couldn't help but sink down against the sheets.. he swallowed..-. Fuck.. -he growled.. catching sight of her cupping that supple sweet swell of hers.. those gorgeous tits.. she was touching herself for him.. she was putting on quite a little show in those moments and it was driving him crazy.. his brows furrowed.. there were mere glimpses of him being in physical pain.. though it was far from that.. it was just sheer frustration...the gentle rocking.. the grinding..the rolling.. it was like a sweet dance.. in time with the music.. in time with the deep animalistic beats..

but as time wore on.. their breathy gasps turned into hissing groans.. soft touches turned to tight grips.. he began to buck up against her.. lifting her clean off the bed.. he was unable to hold it back.. he couldn't keep going at the soft slow pace.. not like this.. not with her.. she writhed and arched.. he watched as those breasts of hers bounced when he bucked.. and he snapped.. he reached for her suddenly.. his free hand finding the back of her neck as he pulled her down to him swiftly.. crushing his lips upon her own.. he growled into her mouth as she raked her nails down his chest.. his body thrusting harder.. faster.. the two of them writhing.. rubbing and grinding against one another.. tongues met.. teeth nibbled.. the kiss was heated and almost desperate.. as if they both required the air their partner held.. his other hand remained upon her ass.. gripping her.. holding her fiercely.. though it soon slid down lower.. to torment and tease.. he bit her.. he couldn't possibly help it when she dug her nails into his ass and she cried out for him to cum for her..

it was all bubbling up there within him.. all that need.. the desire.. the want and frustration.. the feeling of her cunt practically wrapped around his cock.. as close as they were going to get on this night anyway.. and it was such a lush tease and torment.. before he just exploded.. he tensed.. he stiffened ..unable to reign back.. coating her as he bucked and jerked.. he growled and gasped.. his poor heart was stammering.. he felt as though he'd pass out.. though when she shifted.. when she slid his cocks head just inside her he stilled.. the hand upon her ass held firm.. tight.. enough to leave a bruise.. this was like the ultimate test..-.. Fuck!..-he cried out.. how easy would it have been to just dive up into her in that moment.. even if it was for only one deep thrust.. but no.. even though that felt absolutely incredible.. there were no words for that.. that vice like hold.. that scorching heat.. oh he was going to be dreaming about that he just knew it.... he forced his head back into the pillow there.. he swallowed the breath that was caught at the back of his throat.. feeling those last few jerks.. his body settling.. though it would be some time before his heart got the message..

he was out of breath.. like he'd just completed a marathon.. his body was hot.. his cheeks flushed..he winced a little when she pulled away finally.. crawling up to settle in beside him.. he wrapped her up.. holding her to him.. close.. tight..murmuring in response to each of those tiny kisses.. she was just utterly adorable.. tilting his head down as he brushed his lips to her forehead.. not even catching her telling him to sleep.. he had fallen a moment or two before they were spoken..silence falling upon the Inn room then.. the candle finally snuffed out.. leaving them in darkness.. the two of them just curled up.. he with his head on the pillow.. those thick deeply coloured locks of his a bit skewif ..he was utterly and completely relaxed.. and this would probably be one of the best sleeps he had had.. in a very long time.. an hour or two before she would be willing herself to wake though..

she'd be drawn from her slumber by a flickering light.. a soft glow.. starting out small.. only growing.. and then growing.. until it shon like a beacon in that otherwise darkened room.. -.(H). Rose..-it would whisper.. a feminine voice.. soothing and soft-.. (H) Rose.. wake up sweetheart.. -she would feel a soft caress upon her cheek there.. brushing a golden lock behind her ear.. though if she looked.. there would be no actual person there.. just a ghost like figure.. floating.. -.. (H) Dont be afraid.. -she'd whisper.. the event itself wouldn't birth fear in a person.. it was calming.. the light.. the voice.. all of it-.(H). It's so lovely to finally meet you child.. It's a fleeting visit I'm afraid.. so much to do.. so little time.. I am Lady Goldenheart.. appearing to you.. as it would seem you have captured the heart of one of my Paramours.. -she would motion to the soundly sleeping Jacob there-.. You're patience has not gone unnoticed.. I bid you to join us.. when the ice melts.. and the flowers bloom.. for the Celebration of the Heart.. Jacob has always had a plus one available to him.. but has never brought anyone.. I do so hope you will accept.. -she went to turn there.. pausing before her image almost completely faded- Oh.. and Rose.. there's no use trying to rush fate.. -she smiled-.. because the best things in life are worth the wait.. -before the goddess shimmered and was gone.. she would wake some time after this.. unsure.. was that all a dream perhaps?.. nonsense caught up in a sexually sated mind.. born of reading a Paramours book perhaps.. or was it more?...

he remained perfectly still when she moved out of the bed.. nothing was going to wake him up for at least a couple more hours.. his body was putting up a strike notice.. Kit on the other hand was curled up in her bed.. study books had toppled to the floor.. her candle long since having gone out.. she'd studied for most of the night.. trying to catch up as quickly as she could.. the eagerness in her was admirable.. .she murmured when you woke her.. blinking her eyes to adjust to the low lighting.. -.(K). mm.. that sounds nice.. -she uttered softly.. drawing herself into a seated position.. standing a little on wobbly legs as she rubbed her eyes-.. mm.. hold on?.. -she questioned-.. a guard?.. huh?.. -she slipped into one of her dresses there.. tugging it down her frame.. it fit her like a glove.. she just had that shape that it worked on.. long shapely legs.. pooling her hair up into a loose pony tail.. a coat and a scarf..

before she would follow out quickly.. finding it all rather intriguing.. who was this gentleman you were referring to. ..they settled into a small cafe then.. it was still particularly early by this stage so it wasn't terribly busy.. just a few dotted here and there.. gentleman and their wives.. partners and children.. though it was clear quite a few were dressed all in black.. in preparation for a funeral..she accepted the coffee.. the toast and jam there.. pausing after taking a bite-.. mm.. Can i ask you something Rose?.. I..-she hesitated then.. screwing up her face a little.. maybe questioning wether or not to even go on..cradling the up of warm brew between her fingers as she took another drink-.. is there something going on between you and Dr Anikin?.. -she lightly chewed upon the corner of her lip there..-.. I.. I dont want to pry.. it's just.. well..-she placed the cup down-.. in the carriage.. on our way here.. god I feel kind of bad for saying it.. -she almost giggled a little-. well.. you fell asleep on the last leg.. and he kept looking up to you.. at you.. just now and then.. I dont think he realised i saw.. at least not at first.. he just had this sort of.. smile.. -she tilted her head-.. mmm I.. i dont know.. ignore me.. -she shook her head a little.. laughing awkwardly.. she didn't want to pry or get anyone into trouble.. or look to be gossiping.. she plucked up the small pile of papers there instead.. catching sight of the flyer there as her brow rose.. not actually saying anything she held it up to you.. mouth a little ajar.. pointing at the headlines on it.. before she had a little laugh-.. Wow.. -she wasn't quite expecting that.. not at all.. seemingly quite engrossed in the flyer there for a moment as she made mention of the noises the whole Inn had heard that night.. how someone must have gotten under the young bachelors skin.. and how Ric put his fist through a wall in protest at the noise.. though your comment about how it was none of their business had her putting the flyer down quickly-.. no you're right.. it's no ones business but his own.. of course.. forgive me for gossip.. i -her brows furrowed-..bad habits.. -she rubbed her head a little.. the two of them spoke on the lecture that would occur the next day.. and the funeral.. the hospital visit and so on..

she was quite excited really.. to have things to do with someone.. that didn't involve sneaky underhanded nonsense.. things that involved their shared interests and then a little bit of fun.. the two of them stepped back out onto the street.. a small introduction of a certain town guard and a pretty blushing blonde.. and fireworks ensued..


-it would be sometime after she had left.. a good few hours further before he would begin to rouse from his slumber.. blinking his eyes open to the sunlight as it invaded the otherwise darkened room.. someone had opened the curtains.. he rolled over onto his side.. groaning a little as his muscles protested.. he'd been given more than a workout..he had to remind himself of that fact.. and that was enough to make him force his head down into his pillow.. a smile having developed upon his features.. lingering there.. slowly he drew himself to stand.. walking across the room to pour a cup of water.. over the rim of that glassware he noticed the flower.. that single gardenia shining quite brightly as the sunlight hit it.. he moved to approach.. lifting it up as he drew in its scent.. twirling it a little between his fingers..he chuckled.. -.. Ah Rose..

-taking a breath there before he placed it down upon his books..a hot shower was required.. though he winced a few times when the water caressed the angry red lines that marked his chest.. his arms and then of course his ass.. he was certain he had marked her up fairly similar.. though he was not about to complain.. not in the least.. running a comb through his hair.. he slipped on a pair of black slacks.. a crisp white shirt.. the silk tie was slid around beneath the collar as he stood before the mirror there.. looping it through.. fastening it.. knotting it perfectly.. a belt drawn in.. the shirt tucked so it fell just right.. and then the suit jacket.. it was tailored for his shape.. for his figure and size.. he tugged upon the cuffs.. attaching the links there.. sliding into his boots..he would straighten the collar.. the lines.. tugging down upon the hemline before he would gather up his hat.. that rich black fedora.. placing it down upon his head.. tugging it forward just a touch.. pausing a moment.. taking a breath.. as if..willing himself to be able to do this.. that he needed to steel his resolve.. before he would exit his room.. drawing the door closed.. his attention shifted though to those few young women at the top of the stairs.. looking at him.. sharing a few whispers as his brow rose a touch.. he tipped his hat..-.. Good Morning ladies..

-he'd offer in a quiet greeting.. they all sat down on the couch directly behind them then quite roughly.. as if their knees had buckled and their feet taken out from under then.. he tugged on his shirt collar a little.. before making his way down stairs.. he'd catch sight of her there when he was about half way down.. all dressed in black.. the outfit a perfect silhouette of herself.. it was lush and yet funeral appropriate.. respectful.. the corners of his lips tugged a little as if a smile was begging to develop..he reached the lower rung there.. he tipped his hat to her-.. Good Morning Rose.. -he tilted his head as he accepted the tea and then looked down into the container there.. ..Oh Wow.. you've been busy.. Thankyou.. I appreciate it.. the goddess knows I am running a little behind as it is.. -he took a drink of the tea there.. his brows furrowing as he heard further whispers coming from behind him.. a couple glancing in his direction.. the woman with flushed cheeks.. he looked a little confused.. unsure as to just what was going on..

and he was about to ask before Rincavornon's voice would ring out.. coming down the stairs there.. he wasnt dressed for the funeral.. clearly wasn't invited.. or didn't know the Doctor.. -.(R). Ah! so he finally wakes.. after keeping the rest of us up for half the fucking night.. Geezus Fucking Christ Jacob.. -he laughed.. shaking his head as Ellen and Luna more or less toddled along behind-..(F) You dont have to be so vulgar Rincavornon..We are guests in this place- Faelons voice would sound.. he appeared at the top of the stairs there also.. dressed much the same as Jacob.. black.. fine lines.. clean cuts of linen an silk.. though he wore a short top hat instead of a fedora.. and he had an umbrella hanging from his wrist.. Rincavornon muttered something quietly.. before disappearing into the eating area.. Jacob was still turned to face her at this stage..

having heard Rincavornon's words though it had to have been right when he took a sip of the tea.. and he just about choked on it.. his eyes widened just a little.. and all the whispers.. the giggles.. all of it finally made a little more sense.. his cheeks coloured a little.. reaching back he rubbed at the side of his neck there.. clearing his throat before he turned to look to Faelon there.. nodding his head-.. Good Morning Henry.. -he would offer in a somewhat awkward exchange.. yes Faelon had heard bits and pieces of what had happened that night.. but he never let on.. he never even changed his expression.. he didn't want to make the situation anymore embarrassing than he figured it already was..-..(F) I am heading to the gardens shortly.. I will see you there.. -Faelon nodded his head.. reaching across to pat Jacobs shoulder before he turned and nodded to her-..(F) Morning Rose.. -he offered her a smile before he turned and made his way out.. his girls did not follow him.. he was going to the funeral on his own.. they remained behind to study.. she would be the only student attending..

daunting perhaps.. he took a breath.. or more so forced it out as he turned to look to her.. a bashful chuckle sounded.. those dimples appeared for a moment.. the ones she caught on the when they first met in that lecture hall..-.. Shall we go then?.. -he lingered there.. nodding a little before he ushered toward the door.. ladies first naturally.. the weather outside was brisk.. there was a clear chill in the air but it wasn't windy.. it was perfectly still.. the carriage was waiting.. Faelons had already left.. he drew the door open for her.. offering her his hand should she require it for an anchor before helping her up the step . he followed soon there after.. drawing the door closed.. he sank down to sit there.. removing his hat.. placing it beside him as he looked across to her..he was tongue tied for a moment there.. his hands rose as he rubbed at his cheeks.. the colour still there.. at least the hint of it..-.. uh..

-his hands rubbed along his thighs there-.. it would seem.. i somehow forgot to ward the room.. -he rubbed his lips together.. looking across to her once more-.. I uh..-he was stammering a little-.. Wow.. I hope you didn't cop any flack.. please dont tell me you did.. -his face fell a little.. he was not concerned for himself what so ever.. his worry was entirely for her.. he cleared his throat--.. I got lost in it all.. I mean.. the music.. the well.. everything.. it was just.. Damn I mean.. youve got claws.. -he laughed a little.. drawing his jacket across a little.. the pucker in his shirt revealing the shadow of those red lines she had marked him with.. he smiled at her as he straightened his jacket once again.

. the soft sounds of violins could be heard.. a soft slow haunting melody.. one of sadness.. of goodbyes would be catching the wind as they drew closer to the gardens...he drew a breath.. -.. Thank you.. for coming with me.. -he reached across for her hands there.. his own.. soft and warm would curl to hold-.. it means a lot to me.. -he lifted her right hand then.. brushing his lips across the back of it.. before he would release.. the carriage came to a slow stop then.. and the door was opened.. the driver helping her to step down.. before he himself would follow.. replacing his hat once more.. the garden was wide and vast.. incredibly green with so very many flowers and angel styled statues everywhere.. headstones dotted here and there.. not in any real pattern.. just where they settled.. it wasn't regulated so much and yet it was cared for perfectly.. he tugged his hat forward..

nodding to Faelon as he stepped out.. there was a woman on the Doctors arm..wearing a long black dress.. elbow length gloves.. she held a lace umbrella above her head.. hair was tied back in a tight bun with it was firey red.. a young girl and a boy stood beside her.. beautifully behaved.. not saying but a mere peep.. dressed finely ..the boy in a suit much like his Fathers.. the girl akin to the Mother.. though a little less rigid.. bit more lace and frills.. Faelon and his family approached then.. Jacob and the woman shared a greeting.. he going so far as to kiss both her cheeks there..talking on how they had not seen one another in quite some time.. before he would turn to her there.. -.. Rose.. this is Dr Faelons wife Cynthia and their children Robert and Victoria..

-he nodded.. turning toward the family there.. he went to draw breath to introduce her to them before Faelon would step in.. -..(F) this is one of Jacobs students.. the one I was telling you about Cynth.. incredible potential.. -the woman nodded then.. understanding that she had been talking with her husband about you.. -.. (C) Ahh yes.. -she spoke smoothly with a clearly educated and articulate tone-.. I remember.. racking our brains to find a way for you to poach the young woman from dear Jacob here.. -she clucked her tongue-.. tut tut Henry.. Cant have everything you want now can you.. -she laughed.. it was a sing-song sound.. before she turned to you with a smile.. reaching to take your hands in her gloved ones before she stood forward.. to press her lips to both your cheeks.. it was clearly a custom of hers-.. Its a pleasure my dear.. -the family headed off down the track there.. toward the gathered group before he turned to her there.. motioning for her to fall into step with him-..

She's a medical scientist.. We all studied together once upon a time.. -his hands clasped before him there as they wandered-.. lots of stories there.. for another time.. of course.. -he offered her a smile there as they approached the gathered group.. the funeral was quite large really.. but she was the only student.. they were all Doctors and respective families.. all with titles..Jacob stopped and spoke with so many of them.. the running theme was that he had been away for quite some time.. and they were all quite glad to see him return.. plenty of shook hands.. manly styled one armed hugs.. she was introduced to a lot of them..there was reason behind it.. he wanted her name out there.. he wanted them to know who she was when they saw her face.. there was a bit of a squeal then as Grace called out to her 'uncle Jacob' and the wee thing came running.. her doll swinging wildly behind her as the child held it by its hand.. before she just about bowled him over when he crouched down to meet her.. the pair sharing a hug there were Grace whispered a few things in his ear.. before he straightened her hair.. sliding it back behind her tiny ears.. the girl stepped back a little and hugged the dolly to her chest.. turning to look to you there with a small smile.. before she lifted her hand to give you one of those little finger waves that children did..

she turned.. wandering back toward her Father there.. the ceremony was quite sad.. solemn.. quiet.. the wind cease.. silence settled as words were spoken and shared.. as the minister read from his passages.. he had shifted to stand beside Dr Barathon.. reaching across to place his hand upon the good Doctors shoulder when he just about broke.. doing his damnest to hold as much of it in as he possibly could though tears would inevitably tumble down his cheeks before he had the chance to wipe them aside.. blowing out a breath there.. the casket was lowered.. and he reached for her hand there.. taking it.. holding it.. giving it a squeeze.. she was the anchor he needed.. and he couldn't have given two shits who noticed.. or who made mention of it later..

drawing his hat a little further forward as he released another shuddered breath.. Dr Barathon was growing further upset then.. and Faelon stepped up to guide him to the side.. to give him the chance to get it all out.. the crowds of people slowly began to wander off.. to leave the area.. having paid their respects.. people dotted here and there.. he moved forward.. still having a hold of her hand there as he crouched down to take one of the lillies.. handing it to her.. and then he took one for himself.. he stood nearer to the opened grave there.. looking down at the flower there.. his head dipped.. -.. Goodbye Lilly.. -his voice crackled a little..before he steeled himself-.. I am who I am today in part because I knew you.. memories Ill never.. ever forget.. Thank you.. I havent forgotten the promise I made.. to keep an eye on Grace.. -he dropped the flower atop the casket there.. watching as it floated before it sat.. his hand resting atop his heart-.. for as long as I live.. Ill keep watch..

-he cleared his throat.. allowing her to place her flower down if she desired.. though he'd never make her do it.. it was a very personal thing.. before he would guide her away.. wiping his cheeks with the back of his hand.. before another breath was released.. blown out.. as if he was trying to release it quickly.. he would lead her down the pathway a little further.. before he would stop.. coming to stand before her.. taking her other hand as well-.. a little birdie.. told me you stopped by the Barathon household this morning.. -he tilted his head.. looking to her there with a smile all be it a bit weak..he'd release her hands there as he reached to cradle her cheeks.. leaning in a little.. pressing his lips to her forehead-.. Thank you.. -he'd whisper softly against her skin-.. Thank you.. so very much.. your compassion is unrivaled.. Im in awe of you.. honestly I am.. what you have done for that family in that one single visit.. -his hands fell back to his sides there-.. Thank you..

[BadInfluence]

Was there a word for a shared addiction? As surely as he was addicted to her, she was to him, and it went farther… So much farther than their bodies, for all while they definitely had the physical attraction part down pact, it was also fathoms deeper than their skin. His body called to her, he was beautiful in every way to her eyes, there wasn’t a part of him she didn’t find sexually attractive or becoming. He was perfectly muscled, the ideal height, his eyes were glorious and his tattoo’s were just the icing on the cake… But she would still be attracted to him even if she were blind and couldn’t see any of it, for all his body drew her like a bee to a flower, his true value was what lay under his appearance. He was smart, funny and charming, incredibly loyal and forgiving… He had a heart of gold and he had shown her in their days together that time? It’s just a unit of measurement, like kilometers or months, and that while what you do in that space is valuable… It doesn’t make EVERYTHING up… In about five days he had become the most important person to her, walked into her life and stayed there, holding her heart in his hands with the same gentle respect that he did for himself. She shared everything of herself with him, her heart body and soul, nothing of her was closed off to him… Nothing reserved or private… They had the power to strike deep wounds in each other but they never would and they knew it, their respect for each other at the very least, would ensure harm would never come from either side… Sometimes two people in the world, they spark like they did, where from day one there’s a connection… Like two missing ends finding each other and the joining is perfect, and there’s no bumps or ravines, just an easy and perfect companionship… They could have left it there… As companions… Friends of incredible understanding and depth… But there was more between them than that… They were friends first and on the way to becoming lovers now, and that same connection that would bind them forever as allies was just as strong with them romantically, even if neither of them quite knew the path… They did it… Together.



She lay beside him, curled into his side and absolutely, deliciously raw… He had sent her over the moon more than once, and that last time with his head between her legs, he had consumed her like a starving man and sent her to a place very few ever reached. She was content… Warm… Safe… Blissfully in love… Did it really hurt her that he didn’t know how he felt? Did she judge him on his disability to save it back? His confusion? Not at all. She loved him with a sort of selflessness that only those truly in love understand, where you ask nothing from them at all, just their existence is all you will ever need to remain in love forever… When his heart told him what he felt? Then he would know, but until then, she was just happy exactly as they were… His words ended up getting a dreamy soft chuckle from her as she reached up to gently caress his cheek. “I am not always right… You however…” She said with a smile before she would kiss his lips softly, but for the moment cuddling wasn’t quite the number one item on her list, there was something a lot more… Pressing… That she wanted to attend… She slid down his body with delicious purpose, peppering him with warm little kisses and nibbles, getting down to lay between his legs… She saw him lift up, his words that she didn’t need to, and she made sure to correct him there before blowing a hot puff of air over his cock… This? She enjoyed immensely, she wanted to give him head for multiple reasons, and only one being the fact it really was pleasurable to him. She loved watching him groan and whine, the looks that crossed his face as she took his massive girth between her lips, every single twitch and jerk of his body as he gave up that control to her… It was heady and addictive, to say nothing of the taste of him, that salted caramel sweetness that made her want to suck his cock at any and all moments of the day. Even his orgasms, fierce and forceful as they were when they exploded against the back of her throat tasted amazing, a deeper complexity that was just as rich and perfect as he was to her… Even the ache of her jaw and the burn at the corners of her mouth as she gagged on his cock was it’s own delicious sort of pain, addictive and it certainly fed into her own pleasure, so much so that she was fairly sure… She would cum with him just by giving him head more often than not. She relished every moment she spent sucking his cock, the rich moans and soft laughter, unaware of the amazing vibrations they sent up his cock. All she knew was it was incredible and she threw into it like a cliff diver, taking him to the hilt and using every little trick and move that his body was showing her he liked, what really drove him off the edge. Oh she knew how to take him to the hilt now, that he loved it when she gagged on that incredible length and girth of his, the suction when she hollowed out her cheeks and swirled her tongue over the head of his cock and under the ridge… But what he loved most? Was what she did next, taking his hands and guiding them to her hair, a silent invitation to do what ever he wanted to her mouth… He fucked her instantly and she was lost to pleasure as she moaned and writhed, her thighs fusing together as she gently rocked between his legs, her own orgasm building up as sure as his was… She struggled with his size beautifully, tears forming a the corners of her eyes as she took it all hungrily, the drool dribbling down her chin to slide down his balls and making that rich sucking and slapping noise all the sweeter… Oh yes he was pulling her hair hard and she loved it, that string was addictive and made her just about melt into the bedding as she came, moaning and crying around his shaft before he too came… Thudding into her mouth before slowing down with those long sweet strokes that erupted in a white cream cum bath along her tongue and cheeks… Oh she hadn’t had it like that quite yet and she relished it, swallowing down spurt after spurt hungrily, pulling off only when he had given up his last load between her lips… A satisfied smacking of her lips as she swallowed the last bit down after savoring it like a fine rare wine… He really was incredibly delicious and she was hooked on his taste more than a little, giving him that rich little tongue bath to make sure she got up ever drop before sliding up his body again, laughing softly at the tease… Was she trying to kill him? Not even remotely! She thought it was precious and more than a little cute, asking him if he wanted her to stop as she nibbled and kissed along his skin, that smile curling over her swollen lips at his words. “Mmhmm… That’s what I thought…” She teased back.



She continued to kiss and tease up his chest and neck, along his jaw and behind his ear until she got to her goal, the tip of his ear. For an elf the area was incredibly erotic and personal, feeling his reactions shoot off virtually instantly, his fingers curling in tight enough to bruise her hips in perfect replicas of his fingertips… She wouldn’t over stimulated him by any means, she just wanted to get him erect without overstimulating him, and once her goal was achieved? She slid down to nestle herself over his cock, taking her into her folds but not within her, saving that last barrier for a moment that mattered… One that they were both holding out for but didn’t quite know why… She heard his plea, knowing in that moment he truly wasn’t ready, and she wasn’t either in a way… The want was there, stronger than anything she had ever felt, but there was still this hesitation. This gentle reminder to wait… Hold off… It would be worth the time if they did… She gently shushed him, asking for his trust, she would never… Ever… Take from him what he didn’t want to give… That wasn’t what this, what they, were about together. She moved down to kiss his lips softly when he said he trusted her, completely, and she felt the same… She gently began to stroke and grind over him, the two of them incredibly wet from pleasure and devious labors of tongues and lips, making the side more than a little pleasurable… The whine he made almost had her stop, she wasn’t sure if that was a good sound or a bad one, this being the first time she heard it in the situation… Still she rolled with it, sliding her hips back and forth over him, tentative sweet little movements as she learned… Setting his hands about her hips once more, asking him to show her, teach her how to love him… She gave him full control and in those moments delved a little into herself, moans and breathy sighs as he began to rock up against her, watching the play of his perfect abs and hips coming into motion… The way he flexed so he was sliding up against her on his own… An upward lift to her downward motion… He felt more than a little incredible, he was this searing hot rod between her honeyed lips, pulsing and incredibly alive as he ran it’s length over hers… Pressing the head against her clit and core at different moments, and more than once while he did that did she realize just how much it was going to hurt later, when they finally became one… It was going to be incredibly painful and yet she still wanted it, to give herself up to that pain with him, knowing that no matter how much it hurt… What came after was going to be so much sweeter than any pain… Still, it was a good reminder, but it also stirred another idea in her… Something that made her burn up just that little brighter, aching and boiling hot, her hands skimming up along her body… A show for him and a treat for herself, stoking her fingers up over her belly and under her breasts, rolling and palming their sweet round weight in her palms… Gasping and writhing over him as she emulated what he had done to her before, sweet cries of pleasure and delight as she felt those white hot shivers snaking down her spine as it all married together, leaving her more than a little wonderfully wrecked… It was slow, sweet and perfect, a prequal to what would surely come one day… Even so…



Even so…



It wasn’t enough.



He shifted as his control frayed as the torment became too much and he began to drive up into her, making her cry out sweetly as she rode them out, her nipples getting incredibly hard as her arousal just went up that other notch. He was bruising her and she loved it, feeling each bite into her skin from his strength, more wolf prints in the golden sand of her skin. She had a fair littering of them, over her hips and ass, though God knew she wasn’t exactly sparing him any return favors… The harder he thrust the more wild she became, starting to claw at his skin in abandon as her cries got louder, sweeter and closer together as she bounded atop him. God yes! It felt glorious, extraordinary to feel all that strength and force under her, making her tits bounce and sway as she gave up to him… Oh yes… She would love this at any time, letting her mind wander down the path of them together like this, fully and completely… It just chipped away at her resistance a little more but not enough to make her break, not yet, she still held on… For all she had, all she was worth, she didn’t give in… She loved him and when he was ready… Only then… Of course thoughts scattered to the four winds when he growled and grabbed for her, his hand gripping her ass while the other grabbed the back of her neck and pulled her down for a kiss that was as brutal as it was delicious. She clawed down his chest with a purely feminine moan of submission, their lips and tongues in a heated dance as furious as their bodies, as if they couldn’t stand a single inch of skin not being touched by the other… She devoured every sound he made like she was starving, gripping and clawing at his skin sweetly, hearing ever growl and moan as he went at her harder… Faster… The insides of her thighs would be softly bruised and she relished it all, sliding her hands down to grip his ass, sinking her nails into his skin as he bit her, telling him to cum… She felt it the moment it started, that first thick white jet coating her slit like frosting on a sweet treat, but what she did next was for her, for them… She put the head of his cock just inside her, the barest tip was all she could fit without fearing he would tear her, her hand around his shaft… She was careful for them both but God knew she couldn’t resist it… The feeling of him gripping her ass to bruise her while she jerked him off inside her… Feeling each sticky thick jet inside her, heavy and hot as molten lead and so perfect she couldn’t believe how good it felt, the two of them on that razor lined tightrope… They didn’t falter… They didn’t slip… She kept her virginity while she got to make this last moment of theirs as close to sexually intimate as they could get, giving them both the gift of that perfect ending, that final act of completion inside her…



She hurt but it was a delicious hurt… The pain between her thighs was evidence of his need and desire, the heaviness inside her was proof of his pleasure and enough to leave her more than a little warm and sated, curling up into his side… She didn’t want to sleep… She didn’t want to give up the moment… Yet they were both so sexually satisfied that it was unavoidable, inevitable that they would drift off, her soft words unneeded… He was asleep beside her with his head top the pillow, her fingers gently smoothing his hair down before she drifted asleep next to him, half atop him as her head rested over his heart… She was deep asleep when the light caught her attention subconsciously, followed closely by the voice, her head in a confused fog… No one had ever been so sweet to her but Jacob… “Mother?...” She would whisper softly, it felt like the touch a mother would give, warm and gentle… Something inside her she had never had and yet subconsciously knew… She opened her eyes and looked up, into the light that was there, she soft shimmering image… Her first reaction was to cover Jacob, to protect him, unsure of just what was going on… She slowly slipped back just a little, but didn’t quite let go fully, ready to spring in to defend him at an instant. When she mentioned catching the heart of a Paramour she looked down at Jacob then, her fingers over his curled in, and the softest smile on his lips… “I love him… Where he goes…I go…” Yes, even into the feared and avoided celebration of the heart, just because if he went… She would go too. She was looking at Jacob for some moments longer before she paused, hearing those last words, her head tilting to the side… Rush fate? What was she doing? She pressed her hand lower over her womb and shook her head, surely not that, she had moon tea planned in the morning… She was deadly serious about not bringing a child into their relationship, she wanted no guilts like that, how they progressed together? Would be because of he and she, not a plus to make three… She shook her head and went back down to sleep, for all she knew it was just a dream, her subconscious mind wanted to know Jacob loved her back perhaps, or something like that… After all, why would Jacob’s goddess come all the way over here to visit her, when she had never once shown an interest in the Goddess of Love? Heck she showed no interest in any God or Goddess, even the human one was just used as a way to explain things to humans, not because she believed any… It was all so strange indeed… She just put it off until she had time to think of it later, right now she was far too content where she currently was, curled up next to the man she loved.



It sucked to get out of that bed, to have to leave his side because they were both keeping their time together private, to remain secretive… Of course she hadn’t expected the pleasure riddled orgasm that rocked her when she felt his cum dribble down her thigh, something about that just tossed her in the most delicious way, left her shaking and more than a little… Flushed… She got dressed and slid out the window like any good wood elf would, down the ivy and the rain pipe, plucking the most beautiful gardenia there she had ever seen. It was perfect and waxy white with a cluster of pristine petals and she carried that with her back up the pipe to leave on the windowsill for him, sliding back down and into the Inn long before anyone could ever see her, grabbing a shower to remove the smell of sex and sweat… Coming out pristine and completely innocent looking before she made her way back to her room for a couple more hours of sleep before waking up once more, this time bringing Kit with her, waking her up gently. She noticed the fallen books, the fact that Kit was working so hard to make up for lost time, it really and truly made her happy to see it… She knew Kit had potential and a lot of it, she just needed a chance to show it, something she hadn’t been given before in her life but she was now… She was doing all she could to make sure that Kit had room to grow, and the effort was paying off in spades, and Kit? Kit was finally able to just be herself. While Kit woke up she picked up her books for her, setting them neatly on the side table so she could pick them up to read when needed, laughing softly when she heard the question there. “Yeah, I was out on the beach yesterday for a little and some pervert came up and grabbed my bum, but this guard I want to introduce you to? He was there and helped me out, took the guy off to the over night cell and helped me get in touch with Dr. Faelon who came to pick me up and take me back. He’s really sweet Kit, and he’s not bad on the eyes, and tall if you like that… I really think you two will have a lot of fun.” She said with a smile, bringing Kit in slowly into her inner circle, that soft warm space where so far? Only Jacob and Dr. Faelon were able to sit in, but Kit now, she was coming in too… Just that warm spring time bubble she reserved only for the people she cared about. They got dressed over soft laughs and words, and really Kit did have one hell of a body, that perfect full hourglass that makes guys just jaw drop when they see her. What was better about it now though? Was Kit realizing it was just a body, not her only tool to make it through life, and that she was even more beautiful with her brain in the lead rather than her body.



They made their way out to the little Café that had been marked on her map and the atmosphere and the food was wonderful, she and Kit sitting by themselves a bit closer to the door, near a window so they could people watch those outside. She was taking a bite of her sandwich when Kit asked her and she nodded her head. “Sure Kit, you can ask.” She said with a nod of her head, chewing and swallowing before going for her tea next, and when Kit asked… She paused a bit… Soft and quiet but not rude, just her typical silence when she thought about a question, about how to respond… One of the reasons people used to think she was touched in the head or slow, when in truth she was just the sort of person not to answer something on the fly, giving it the attention she felt it deserved. “I wasn’t aware of it but… I do like him… A lot…” She confessed, and it was a huge thing for her to say too, especially when so much could go horribly wrong as soon as a secret became shared between more than two people… Kit could really, really hurt her and Jacob if she ran off and told someone else, and this… This was a sign of trust from her, showing Kit that she was wanting to make that bridge, because sometimes? You just have to risk getting hurt to know if someone’s the right sort of person for you to be around. “We’re friends and he shares a lot with me that he keeps very private, and I think he has been lonely, he needed a friend a lot… A bit like you did Kit…” She said with a nod, taking another bite of her breakfast sandwich and smiled at Kit, reaching out to gently touch the tip of her nose across the table. “You’re ok… I’m trusting you Kit… No one knows anything about this, and I’ve never liked anyone before, or anything even remotely like that. It’s a bit scary… He’s my teacher first, my friend second, and I need to be careful… Look at what Ric has done to you? With Luna and Ellen? So much trouble… But now your free of him and you can see how things can do wrong.” She trusted Kit would understand more than a little what she was meaning, that all it takes are a few wrong words, some poor choices and a whole lot of things can go absolutely nuts and out of control in a second. She resumed her breakfast by the time Kit saw the flier and held it up, and she wasn’t surprised, it was just like the one before. She nodded her head and nearly swallowed her bite whole when Kit mentioned that they had heard… Everything… Last night… Oh thank GOD she had years of mastering her facial responses or she would have given up the game in a moment, her cheeks would have flushed bright red and her eyes darted to the side, a sure sign she knew what had happened… Instead she told her she had been out at the sea still when it had all been going on, that she must have missed it. She made a little comment about privacy and she saw Kits reaction and she shook her head. She tapped the paper there for a moment. “Well let’s look at it this way… Imagine if it were you, not Dr. Anikin on the paper? Your whole life in black and white, your financial situation and marital status, plastered all over a city as large as this one… Everyone looking at you, anyone who approaches you, you don’t know if they’re genuine or just after your money… It makes you feel alone, adrift and unsure of your surroundings, it makes you question your friends and the people in your circle… You would never know if the person you talked to or made friends with, the beau you went on a date with, if they were interested in you as Kit? Or as a dollar sign?” She said gently, and it was this sort of outside thinking she hoped Kit could learn, because not only was it amazing to have in real life? But it was also incredibly useful in the medical field, to look at something from a different perspective, a different angle to find the solution. “Everyone out there? Is fighting a battle we have no idea about… We should try to be kind, always, because in that moment? While it was only a second of kindness to you, might be the greatest act of compassion that person has ever known. It’s ok to be curious, that’s just a part of being alive Kit, in having a brain… The difference is to temper our curiosity with compassion.” She said with a warm and kid smile, reaching across to push her coffee towards her and give her a wink, turning the page to the latest fashions in town and who was wearing what. “You can talk to me about anything you want to Kit, don’t worry about it, just make sure you take a little time to think it over first ok?” They talked then about the latest fashions, things she thought Kit would look REALLY good in, and of course the funeral and things of that nature… Plans for tomorrow to go to the lecture hall early and get the best seats… When they finished eating they headed out and it wasn’t a terribly long walk to the station from there, and it was with smiles and kind words she made the introductions and just like she thought, those two hit it off like a house on fire. She waved goodbye to them and wished them luck, she was sure that they would both have an amazing time with each other, and she? She was off on her second adventure of the morning.



The trip to the doll makers and then the florist were easily completed, wanting to have the wreath delivered as a gift from Dr. Anikin, but the rest… She delivered personally. Gracey was a beautiful little girl, and since she had worked with more than one child who had lost a parent she knew how hard it was for the little ones, and she did her best to help Gracey get through it… Or at least start the path. The meeting with her was bittersweet though, she had held her as she cried and let out all those childhood pains and pressures that they try so hard to put up behind a straight face, a strong front… The doll was a gift and a way to help her manage the next few years, but in time the pain would ease, it would become a soft familiar ache but it wouldn’t cripple her… The tea and cinnamon rolls were given then to Dr. Baratheon along with the soft words that he was not alone, that she and Jacob were there to help in any way they could, all he had to do was ask. Once she was done there she had just enough time to head back to the Inn and change, catching the trolly and the strange looks that she half noticed, half ignored… She literally didn’t spend time on that sort of stuff, and given the day she had ahead of her, there was a lot that needed done. She got in with a bit of time to spare, smiling as she saw Kit was still out, and sincerely wished her quite the fun time indeed. She got changed into the black suit that fit her like a glove, thanking Anouk with more than a little bit of her heart for the hat and shoes, God knew she could barely move today… Honestly it was the most delicious ache and one that came back every time she moved of shifted, a reminder of the night she spent in his arms, and all that had happened between them. The lower but perfectly heeled shoes were incredibly comfortable and the hat was ideal, just enough to hide her face from afar but not close up, that perfect mourning veil… Under it all though she spotted a little golden rose pin, her head tilting to the side as she touched it, wondering where it had come from… It hadn’t been there before but she just… Knew it wasn’t Anouks doing… It wasn’t her style.. Was it from the dream? Was it even a dream then? She paused, unsure but she slipped it onto her shirt, over her heart before she made her way down… Making sure to make a pot of Jacob’s favorite tea and the last of the cinnamon rolls, packing them in travel safe containers before waiting for him at the bottom of the stairs, a small smile on her lips when she saw him start to come down…



He looked amazing, even though she knew they were mourning clothes he cut such a fine figure, so sharp and with that fedora? Goodness he had her heart doing some incredible acrobatics there in her chest… “Good morning, Dr. Anikin, I thought you might appreciate a little breakfast on the road.” She said warmly before like him, she noticed the chatting and the stares, but unlike him… She kind of knew why… She kept her face strictly neutral and calm, about to ah, reveal what she knew… This was going to be a very um… Interesting few days to say the least but before she could say a single word Ric came in and just spread his nasty all over the place. Ok… Bullshit. Fucking. Bullshit. She inclined her head to Dr. Faelon when she saw him there, another smart good looking figure before she would part away from them, a soft touch to Jacob’s wrist as she headed into the meal area. Ric was sitting down at the table, about to tuck into something for breakfast when she came in behind him, Luna and Ellen unable to see her from sitting at his side. She reached over to the side for one of the knifes there and grabbed the bar of lye soap and cut a chunk of it off and held it in her leather gloved hand, just waiting for the moment for Ric to open his mouth to take a bite, and when he did? BAM! She caught his jaw and shoved the chunk of lye soap between his lips and held his jaw shut with a strength he wouldn’t have imagined from such a slight woman. “Now I can move past your vulgar attempt at a rape back at the Manse, I can ignore your vile putrid words and languages when the only people who have to deal with your autisutcally crass vocabulary are grown adults, but right now? There are women and children here who don’t need to hear a single uttered vowel of your phosphorus vocal cords, and since you can’t seem to realize there is a difference between class and crass, I’m giving you a crash course. This is Lye… We use it to clean everything in this world that’s filthy, like your rotten little gap whole, which is the most rotten thing of all. It burns bare skin, dries it out and chaps it, makes it split…I can imagine the fire going on in your mouth right now… The bitter taste… And that’s not even a drop in the ocean to what you pour on other peoples ears…” She said before she forced his head back and worked his throat over to make him swallow that chunk of lye before pushing his head forward into his breakfast plate before she stepped away, the energy coming off of her was angry and more than a little intimidating, more than a big enough red flag. “You’ll be throwing up for the next few hours. With any luck at all this will teach you a lesson about public behavior and morals, God knows you have none but you can learn, and if you don’t? There are far more creative things I can do, and trust me, you won’t like them. This? Is a warning to you… Next time? It’s a promise.” She glared at Luna and Ellen, daring them to do anything and if they did? She’d go after them just the same as Ric and they’d all be puking their guts up for a while. With that she would leave and walk back out, as cool and composed as a spring pond, like nothing had happened at all. She nodded her head to Dr. Faelon and gave him a warm smile. “Be safe, Dr. Faelon.” She said before she and Jacob would be alone together, catching his bashful chuckle, her own lips curling in a smile before he would lead the way. She accepted his help up, she was still learning how to move in such tight fitting clothing, settling into the seat across from him as they were finally wrapped up in quiet and privacy.



“No, no one knows it was me, they just think you ah… Had a really good night with a courtesan…” She said, blushing a little, looking to the side a moment. “Kit told me about it, apparently Ric was so angry he actually punched a hole in the wall, woke up quite a few people but… Honestly?” She said with that blush still on her cheeks, a soft little laugh there as she shook her head, a gentle shrug of her shoulders. “I… Don’t actually regret any of it… I’m… Kind of… Well proud of what we did… Sounds and all… I don’t really care if anyone heard us… It was real…” She wasn’t ashamed of what she shared with him, no more than she was of what people heard, though when he pulled his collar open a bit she did end up fully laughing and shaking her head. “Ok… For that I will apologize I just… How did you say it? Lost in it all? Though it’s a pot calling kettle…” She said, reaching down to pull her skirt up, revealing the black silk stockings and the red garters, up past that to the soft golden skin littered with finger tip bruises. “My little wolf paw prints I’m calling them…” She gave him a wink there before she tugged her skirt back down, and they would slip into a little bit of silence, the space filled with the gentle melody of violin studded sorrow… She looked across when she heard him draw a breath, reaching out in time with him, to take his hands… Oh she knew it was hard… She gave his hands a loving squeeze… “Promise me you’ll lean on me when you need to? “ She’d ask gently, knowing he had a habit of holding too much in, she had seen and heard all as much on the beach with him last night. She didn’t want him to hold it all in and forget he could lean on her, she was here as more than just a token bit of strength, she was here to be his rock and hold him when he felt like breaking. She reached up after he kissed the back of her hand, coming to touch his cheek softly, a gentle cradle with the caress of her thumb over his cheek. “Remember… You’re not alone anymore…” She hoped it would be enough… The ride was short as she was helped down, Jacob coming out right behind her as the two walked to the large garden like cemetery, her hands clutching her small purse as they walked… She wanted to hold his hand but it was far too public and she was still holding to her promise… To let him remain untethered as much as she could… She paused when they met up with Dr. Faelon and his family, smiling at the beautiful little boy and girl, his gorgeous wife… She had no idea Faelon was married and yet she was so happy to see him settled down and with little ones… It was precious and it made her truly happy for him… She smiled gently when Dr. Faelon introduced her, blushing a bit to find out he had been talking about her to his wife, both an incredible compliment and left her in some rather big shoes to fill! “Really, Dr. Faelon is just being incredibly kind, he is one of the most amazing surgeons I have ever seen.” She said, trying to take the attention off of her, she truly wasn’t used to it. Never would be. She caught that sing song smile and laughed, returning the double cheek kiss, nodding her head softly. “The pleasure is all mine, Mrs. Faelon, thank you so much for the pleasure of your introduction. “ Perfectly polished manners from start to finish, warm and sweet, a woman Jacob could be proud to associate with. She followed along behind Jacob as he told her what Cynthia did and her mind instantly latched onto it. “Oh that’s fascinating… No wonder Dr. Faelon was able to figure out the equation, his wife would know all about things like that… What an amazing woman and such a mind… And beautiful children too.” She said warmly before the run of introductions were made. She actually managed to keep up with it all, remembering every name and face, storing them away in a file in case they met again at a later date. The fact she was the only student doctor there didn’t go amiss on her, she was well aware of the fact that she was truly the only odd duck out here, everyone else either being related by family or work… She didn’t let it trip her up though, not one bit, she kept up that perfect mannered appearance and made sure not to embarrass Jacob even a little.



She heard the squeal and then a running mass of blond hair make a run for Jacob and she couldn’t help the smile there, for some reason her heart just took a sudden lurch into something painfully bitter sweet, seeing him around a child for the first time… Something about it made her long for an unknown thing… Something strange and new… A little painful and yet… Tender… Like a pain she wasn’t sure she wanted to get rid of… She watched them hug and interact a little, the way he fixed her hair, taking such tender care… All before Gracey would turn to leave, the little smile there and the little wiggle of her fingers, returning it with one of her own before she would return to her fathers side. It was a little after that the funeral began and she could feel all the pain there, it was like tasting salt water on your tongue, her heart ached for them… She couldn’t feel the same sorrow but she could empathize and wished she could help their pain… All of theirs… She remained strong, a solid figure there, someone they could watch… Could take strength from her sheer presence… Like sunlight in a storm… When he reached for her hand she took it, linking their fingers as she reached out, stoking her fingers up and down his back slowly… Softly… She gave his hand a warm squeeze, letting him know she was there, she had him… She wasn’t going anywhere… She reached into her purse and would take out the soft handkerchief and hand it to him so he could wipe his tears, saying nothing, just anchoring him… She didn’t falter once as the coffin was ready to be lowered and people began to split off, to leave and take their own solace in other places, Dr. Baratheon heading off himself with Gracey… She took the lily that Jacob offered her and watched him place his own with heartfelt words, knowing his agony and pain were so incredibly fresh, her heart bleeding for him… What could she do?... She heard his vow, the promise to look after Gracey for all his life, giving his hand a gentle squeeze… She would wait a moment longer, until most of the people were gone before she would have him wait a moment, taking in a slow deep breath… Blowing it over the lily in her hand before letting it float slowly down into the ground… She focused, her face took on a look of almost strain, it was hard sometimes to make her powers move in a certain way… Untrained as she was it was difficult… But in the end? She managed to make it work…



What was it?



A lily tree… A blending of a gentle gardenia mixed with lilies, sprouting up there behind where the tombstone would sit, growing suddenly until it was a well established little tree… She couldn’t do much… But she could give Gracey and Dr. Barantheon a place to sit under… A tree to grow with them… A place for shade in the summer and shelter in the winter… She let it go with a breath and sagged into his side for a moment, her head a bit dizzy but over all she was fine, shaking her head a bit before she stood on her own and would follow Jacob where ever he lead… Down that little pathway to stop… She paused when they were fully alone, private and quiet as they held hands, her head tilting as he spoke… Ah… Busted… “You love them… So by proxy I love them too…” She said simply, giving her head a little shake, seeing his smile. God she knew he was so raw and she wanted to help so desperately… When he released her hands and cradled her cheeks she sighed softly, leaning into the kiss to her forehead, slowly lifting her veil so she could see him without the fine black netting. “Gracey needed a little support… They both did… It’s no more than what you would have done if your own heart wasn’t so raw with grief Jacob… While you heal? I will be your hands, I’ll act as I am sure you would, and I’ll love those who you love until you’re ready…” She came in and wrapped her arms around him, sliding his fedora off so she could gently run her fingers through his hair, offering him soft, silent support… Her love and her strength… Her support any everything he might need. She would hold him like that for some minutes until she lead them to a small stone bench, guiding him to sit down, and in this instance… Offering him one of her own cigarettes… Not that she smoked, but she did know a lot about plants, and since she saw him smoke… She knew right now? He probably desperately needed one… This was tobacco and cloves, laced with special herbs that worked very much like opium without actually having the drug itself, using natural elvish and drow herbs instead. She would take out a little lighter she had picked up for him and strike it for him, starting it before handing it to him, blowing it out in a puff before waving the air around her. “It’s alright… It’s one of the ones I made for you… I noticed you hadn’t smoked since the manse so I figured your cigarettes must have taken a swim when Kit launched you into the pool…” She said gently, reaching up to gently stroke her hand up and down his back, just hoping to relax him further… To take that edge off… She would lean against his shoulder for a second before she thought of something that might interest him… She took the gold rose pin from her shirt and showed it to him…



“We had a visitor last night… She called herself Lady Goldenheart?... I’m not sure who that is but she knew you… She asked me to come to the Festival of Hearts with you this year… It was all very mysterious but she was quite beautiful… And very kind… Found this in my room this morning and I know it’s not from you or from Anouk… Do you know anything about it? “ She would ask. After all, this person knew him, so surely then he would know her? Or something, at least? She would let him take the pin then if he wished and she would open up her bag, putting the lighter back into it’s pocket before pulling out the paper, the one with the marked locations on the map… And the flyer with him on it… She handed him the flyer first… “Be careful… I’ve seen two of these now, at two different places to eat here in town, and I’m not sure who is doing it or why… But I do think this means you are going to be hounded… Quite a lot while here… With that in mind… Would it be best if I spent a little less time around you publicly? I’m not sure what you want to do but I’ll help as best I can…” She said, and they would form a plan of action from there… After that? She finally took out the map and showed it to him as well, pointing out the different places on it, reaching out to take his hand in hers… Hidden under the paper so it wasn’t obvious… “How about… For the rest of today… We see how many of these places we can see? We’ll make a game of it, you and I… We’ll have to point out something we’ve never seen before at each place… Something unique like someone’s crazy hat or a painting… Whoever gets the most at the end of the day can pick any prize they want from the other… Like a secret told or an IOU, maybe doing shores for a week back at the Manse, or cooking a favorite dish?” She said, looking up to him with a loving, warm smile… Hoping getting out on the town, playing this silly little game might be just what he needed, something to make him laugh and perhaps let go of the pain of today… At the very least they could avoid the Inn and the ah… Awkward looks…

---

---

Library Exterior



Library Interior



This is the Imperial Bilbiotheca, full of knowledge, specialty books and one of a kind scrolls from across the sea and beyond. There is a small fee (five silvers) to enter and read to ones content. There is a section dedicated to books for sale of only the rarest sort, none that would ever be found in book stores, even elite ones. There is also reading areas where people may take a preferred book to study and take notes, but duplicating a book is frowned upon, and offending parties are not allowed back. The Library is open for all hours of the day, suiting the tastes of public and private individuals, both working class and higher echelon. 

---

The Hidden Arch



There are decades worth of myth and legend about this archway, and though many have tried, few have supposedly found the entrance to it. There are no doors nor windows to it, and any direct path seems to lead away from it rather than to it, which has frustrated more than a few people. However, the desire to find it has constantly remained in the minds of many young lovers, as it is said those who find their way to the arch are said to find true love with one another and good fortune abound. Whether or not this is true, none knows, but it has lingered around for centuries regardless. At the very end of the day, it is at least, a wonderful pastime.

---

 Exhibition of Fortune



This is the largest Museum in the town, and holds thousands of artistic exhibitions within it's walls, both hanging and carved into the very walls themselves. Everything from fresco's to statues, oil paintings and plaster reliefs, to creative crown molding and elaborate lace like wrought iron fixtures. There is a entrance fee (fifteen silver)  and is open until midnight.

---

The Rainbow Opera House



At one point early in the theater's history, it was unrivaled along the entire coast, featuring six different viewing halls and putting on as many as sixty shows a day in it's prime. There were different styles for each hall, reflecting the style of plays in each, ranging from children's shows to grand Italian opera's. Sadly it had fallen out of use about a hundred years ago when a larger, more opulent theater opened up closer to the new center of town, and during that disuse many a story has cropped up around it. Many believe in several scandalous affairs had occurred within it's walls, urban legends about a woman who hung herself from the rafters, others about a Phantom of the Opera who stole away the lead actress and was never seen again. Tales of a monster that lurks in the dark passages waiting for unwary victims to steal the life from them... Every thing from ghosts to poltergeists and anything in between has been said to linger there, and maybe there is some truth to the stories, given that many don't even have the courage to spend the night within it's walls.

---

 Hall Of The Forgotten Violinist



The real story behind this abandoned chapel like building is as long forgotten as it's original owner, and while no one can doubt the beauty of the ruin, there are few who visit it. It's position high on the hill in town makes it hard to access, and given the haunting beauty of the location and the chill that often permeates it's hall, only those who wish to honor the masters of architecture or those with a curious mind venture up to see it. It is said that long ago, a man built the hall for his wife, a woman of renown talent with the violin. When she passed away the hall was abandoned and has not been reclaimed since. Tales abound that if one goes up on a certain night, at a certain time, you can hear the faint plaintive sounds of a woman crying or the beautiful strains of a ghostly violin.

---

The Coriander Flower



Considered THE Place to eat in town, it boasts some of the most beautiful decal, live music and opulent dining atmosphere. It caters to those of refined taste and high standards, known to be one of the only five star rated eateries on the continent, it more than lives up to it's reputation. It's said that eating there can change your life, and that much is true, the food is unparalleled and the service magical. There is a dance floor for those of a more romantic nature, and a side venue with gambling tables and games for those who wish to try their luck, catering to many tastes and needs all in one opulent setting. There is a six month waiting list, or if you are one of the more wealthy individuals, perhaps incredibly affluent... You can purchase a table for the small sum of three hundred gold. Of course, that just includes the table, not the food itself which holds it's own astronomical price tag. For anyone wishing to make an appearance in the scene, to create a stir or simply make your mark... This is the place to do it.

---

The Mystral



Known as a quaint little tea house with delicious finger foods, it's a popular hang out for the younger crowd and romantic couples, often visited during brunch and between meals for a small snack while out on the town. Their tea options are known as some as the best around, including incredibly rare blends from far flung lands with names as exotic as the fruits in their teas, not to mention the quaint china and one of a kind service. Every waiter and employee is a Gypsy and are known to haggle about the cost of everything which has made it quite the fun pastime.

---

The Bright Window



The biggest, most well known delicatessen in all of town, they sell everything from delicious and delicate pastries to one of a kind blend of jams and jellies. They also custom make various kinds of honey according to the flower of choice, as well as make wedding and birthday cakes, and cater grand events. Their greatest draw are their Macaroons which they have mastered over generations to become the absolute epitome of pastry delight, in any color and flavor a person might desire, from the palest shades of color and most delicate of flavors to the vibrant and extreme.  Of course for such specialty there is also a cost to it, and while it isn't the most expensive shop in town, it is always exceptionally busy and does carry it's own price tag that isn't for those of the more frugal mindset.

---

The Cinnamon Clove



Pictures pf lovely ladies in classical wear adorn the outer walls while mirror windows reflect the passing traffic, the Cinnamon Clove is perhaps one of the most amusing, and tongue in cheek places in all of town. It is a bar and eatery, catering to the slightly more down to earth, rough and tumble group that comes in from the ship docks and the average laborer. The food is considered quite good and the prices are more than fair, and the alcohol is never watered down which help it to keep it's high popularity... But that isn't it's only draw... It is also a can-can hall where scantily clad women of all colors and races are known to get up on stage and put on a lively show, as well as more than a few very tongue in cheek shows that play more than a little on the duplicitous meanings of some words. 

---

The City Gardens



This location runs on for several miles in any one direction, offering a wide array of various garden styles and creative pathways to be enjoyed by any and all, even offering bicycles for those who are of a more adventuresome sort. It is completely free of entrance fees but does have a donation jar at every entrance, and the bikes for those who wish to use one are five silvers for the day, and if that is not quite one's thing? They do offer carriages for those capable, though they are restricted to the tracks provided by the park itself, and cost twenty silvers for the day. There is also a small cafe and eatery located in the heart of the grounds that offer various finger and picnic themed foods for those who find themselves a little peckish from the activities. 

[Deleted]

...the pair of them had settled down in that corner cafe.. the one that was just a little out of the way.. ordering bits and pieces there.. coffee and tea.. toast and eggs.. Kit quietly questioning to herself where your sudden rather large appetite had come from.. though such would never be aired.. simply a fleeting thought.. she took a few drinks of from her cup there.. glancing across to you every so often.. before she would spill the questions about Jacob and her.. her curiosities stemming from the carriage ride.. the looks she had caught glimpses of.. though she also felt a little foolish once she had finished.. thinking it was all rather silly to be brought up.. tilting her head when you spoke on liking Jacob.. and a lot.. she couldn't help the smile that appeared-.. (K) I thought you might.. he's such a nice guy.. really genuine.. -she listened when you went on.. talking on how the pair of you were friends.. and how he was a very private person..she downed a bit more coffee there.. nodding when you brought up Ric, Luna and Ellen.. -(K) mm.. you're right.. its not an easy situation to be in.. though.. you and him.. are worlds apart from the likes of Dr Rincavornon and those girls.. you dont even come close to the rotten business that goes on there.. -she shook her head a little.. the flyer would come into play then.. and she kind of gawked at it.. turning it over.. kind of skimming it.. not reading everything.. though the detail in it was really quite incredible.. her shoulders sunk when you reminded her of just how it would make Jacob feel.. or how she would feel it it was her on that page.. she nodded.. placing it back down upon the table there.. -.. not good at all.. -she exhaled-.. he will be hounded.. thats horrible.. -she frowned-.. is that why there seems to be a lot of women in the city.. i just figured it held a larger population.. but.. maybe its something more than that.. wow.. thats bad.. Poor Dr Anakin.. -she shook her head there.. placing her cuttlery down.. deciding she'd had enough by that stage...the two of them rose from their seats and headed out.. introductions were made between her and this guard.. and they seemed to hit it off practically straight away.. the guard also quite pleased with the effort.. she had returned then to the Inn after dropping by Dr Barathon's home.. delivering the gifts.. his daughter just fell in love with that doll.. and the story on how to talk to her since passed Mother..was perfect..


He had woken a little earlier.. his body rejecting the idea of movement to any great extreme.. he showered and slipped into his funeral attire.. the extremely well fitted suit.. the tailor having been picked out by Nautilous (naturally) made sure the fit was impeccable.. a fedora settled atop his hat there as he went to make his way down stairs.. the looks and whispers caught him a little off guard.. he wasn't entirely sure what was happening.. his gaze soon fell upon her though.. in that deep almost haunting outfit.. it was perfect.. giving off such a beautiful silhouette.. she offered him tea and those rolls then.. he offered her a smile in response.. though Dr Rincavornon's sudden and quite vulgar quip caused him to choke on that heated liquid.. having swallowed it incorrectly.. and he went to swing around.. glancing over his shoulder with his brow raised.. Faelon put a stop to it all rather quickly.. he tugged at his shirt collar a little.. nodding to her as she slipped away a moment.. he took that time to talk with Henry about the funeral.. and the conference which was the next day.. the two of them just chatting as he drank a little more of that tea. the looks though continued.. just every now and then he'd catch another pair of eyes looking in his direction..


Dr Rincavornon had settled down to sit there nearer Ellen and Luna.. one of the girls pouring him a strong cup of coffee whilst he was piling some toast and eggs onto a plate.. he did not expect the sudden forced soap entre though.. spluttering as he reached swiftly for her arms.. gripping and pulling back.. she may have been strong for being so small.. but he was almost twice her height-.(R). Keep your trap shut girl.. -he snapped suddenly.. Luna and Ellen sank back in their chairs there as he spluttered.. though she had done well to make him swallow a great deal of it.. and it was downright disgusting..he grabbed for the coffee then.. taking a swig.. rinsing his mouth before spitting it down into the fires hot coals-.. You're treading on thin ice Rose..I didn't say a single solitary word to you.. Not a one.. Stop fighting his battles for him.. hes a big boy.. -he scoffed.. turning back to his seat there.. he felt rightfully ill.. the taste wasn't going anywhere.. all he could taste and smell was fucking soap.. he upended his breakfast plate then.. the stoneware shattered.. food went everywhere as he stormed out.. he was not happy.. Not in the slightest.. the girls toddled after him quickly.. eyeing her with brows raised-.. You're not untouchable Rose.. dont forget that.. -Ellen snapped before the three of them disappeared down the long corridor.. soon enough out of sight..


He had waited for her to return.. tilting his head when she came back into sight.. curious as to just what that was all about.. he had heard the plates smashing afterall.. but figured if there was something wrong someone would have yelled..Faelon headed off in a carriage and the two of them soon there after.. he blinked though when she mentioned everyone in the household thinking he was with a courtesan.. shaking his head as he chuckled..-.. Wow.. ok then.. I'm really not sure what to think on that one.. -his hands slid back to rub at the sides of his neck then.. his smile broaded a bit further when he heard about Ric punching a wall in response.. and then of her being proud.. -.. Oh i dont care about what people heard.. I've heard far worse.. Far louder in the same Inn.. on more than one occasion.. -his smile settled a little.. not one of amusement .. just honest-.. It was certainly an experience.. -his fingers curled around hers then.. giving a gentle squeeze-..Something I can honestly say I had not done before..

-he showed her the marks she had left on him.. namely his chest. he was pretty scratched up.. she apologised and he shook his head..- really not necessary.. I dont mind at all.. -he shot her a playful wink.. though his mouth dropped open a little further when she twisted around.. lifting the side of her skirt like that.. the tops of those black silk stockings.. the red garter.. he cleared his throat and his cheeks coloured just a little-.. mmhmm.. well.. i couldn't help myself.. -he laughed a little..they arrived at the gardens soon there after.. he managed to introduce her to everyone that held any grand importance.. those with power.. wether it be monetary or within the Hospital and Education systems themselves.. each introduction was done with a certain amount of pride.. he was genuinely impressed to have her under his tuition.. she was incredibly smart and switched on.. the ceremony was dark.. sorrowful.. he just about broke again when the coffin began to be lowered down into the earth and he reached for her hand.. he needed that anchor desperately and she took that place without a single second thought.. he felt her hand upon his back..

he accepted the handkerchief.. reaching to slide it across his cheeks.. beneath his eyes as he took those long shuddered breaths.. soon the groups of people began to wander off.. to split up.. leaving just the two of them there.. he knelt down to take the lillies.. one for her.. one for him.. he spoke from the heart .. of his promise to Dr Barathon's wife.. and to that of little miss Grace.. before he would allow the bloom to float down ..to come to rest there upon the soft polished wood.. he stepped back a couple.. just to allow her to do the same if she chose.. he'd never force her.. he watched as she worked her magic.. his head tilting catching the look of strain on her normally softened features.. before the tree began to wind its way up from the soft turned earth.. he couldn't help the smile that developed there.. his arm snaking around her as she sagged against him.. oh he knew that feeling all to well.. when one had spent their magic.. how it was different to usual exhaustion.. he let her catch her breath there before leading her away..down one of the long winding paths.. deeper into the gardens themselves.. the silence was.. stunning.. just the sounds of leaves rustling and birds in the distance..

he reached for her hands.. his fingers curling around them as he told her he knew she had gone to visit Dr Barathon and Grace.. and about the gifts.. and he thanked her.. with all his heart for the gesture.. it was so thankless.. it was perfect.. so so very caring...he released her hands then.. only to lean in to press his lips to her forehead..before he would look to her as she lifted that dark lace veil-.. I dont know what Id do without you Rose.. -the pair embraced.. her arms wrapping around him.. removing his hat in the process.. his held her close.. his head dipped a little.. that silent support..coupled with her love and strength.. made him honestly think he could do anything he desired.. the pair of them sunk down to sit upon one of the benches there.. she offered him a cigarette and he paused..rubbing his lips together-.. mm.. yes and no.. -he hesitated a moment before taking one that she offered.. leaning in a little as she lit the tip for him.. he drew in that breath.. holding it for a moment before releasing that thin stream of smoke-.. I did lose a few when I was tossed into the water.. you are right..

-he nodded.. looking to the cigarette she had given him.. curious indeed as to just what was in it.. it was like nothing he had experienced before-.. but.. after our talk.. -he glanced across to her there.. his gaze.. that haunting green and blue settled upon hers-.. on the beach.. about the opium.. well. -he cleared his throat.. sliding that cigarette back between his lips-.. I destroyed what was left.. I just.. I couldn't bring myself to use anymore of it.. -he shook his head.. -.. this.. though is quite interesting.. you'l have to show me what you're putting in it..-he sunk back against the stone back of the chair there a moment.. reaching down to unbutton his suit jacket.. as he seemed to just let himself relax.. at least for a little while.. partaking in that cigarette.. though that glittering rose pin caught his attention.. making him sit forward as he took it from her.. letting it rest upon the dip of his palm.. -.. mm i know what this is.. -he exhaled another stream of smoke there..-.. but where did you get it?..

-he questioned.. glancing across to her there as she told him of what happened.. how there was a visitor.. he just about dropped that cigarette then.. reaching to take it before it fell from his parted lips.. a few coughs.. he cleared his throat.. he paused a moment.. letting the silence fall between them for what could seem like forever-.. mm.. no.. not Anouk and no not from me either.. -he rubbed his lips together..glancing back down to the pin there.. turning it around..seemingly quite awe struck-.. Wow.. -he glanced upward..a faint salute given..-.. I'm impressed.. -his brows furrowed as he turned back to her-.. this.. is well.. I'm not even sure how to explain it.. -he took one last drag from that cigarette there before putting it out on the ground beneath his feet.. reaching then for her as he placed the pin back upon her charcoal coloured blazer-..

Do you know much of the gods and goddesses of.. well.. -he motioned between them both-.. our worlds?.. the good and the bad.. from Lloth to Eilistraee.. Tymora and Sune.. the list is really quite long.. those that on the extremley good end of the spectrum.. to those who are.. well.. the complete opposite like Lloth and Khorne and Tzeentch.. well.. this.. -he tapped a finger to the pin-.. is the symbol of Hanali Celanil.. otherwise known as Lady Goldenheart ..-he placed his hat down upon his lap there.. turning his head..drawing his hair away from his right ear.. and there behind it was the very same rose.. but it was inked into his skin.. before he slid his hat back onto his head.. turning to face her properly once again-..

you must have caught her attention.. she doesn't appear for just anyone.. -he offered her a smile-.. She's my goddess.. I am one of her Paramours.. hence where that book.. came from.. -he cleared his throat a little.. giving her a bit of a look-.. I was going to ask you to accompany me.. to the Celebration of the Heart.. seems my lovely goddess ruined my surprise.. -he laughed a little and shook his head-.. a personal invitation from the goddess herself.. Thats pretty impressive.. The pins only pop up.. once a year.. they are handed to a select chosen few who have caught the Lady Goldenhearts attention.. for whatever reason.. it placed the wearer under her protection.. and gives them access to a great lot of things and places during the festival.. that a grand many would never get the chance.. -he smiled-.. Ive never taken anyone.. -he paused.. a thoughtful look crossing his features-.. You would be my first guest..as I usually just work the festivals..

-his brow rose a little when she pulled out the folded paper there.. giving him a warning.. -.. hmmm?.. whats this then..-he took it.. unfolding it as he turned it the right way round.. quite a few emotions crossed his features.. a bit of shock.. a slight frown.. the sound of an exasperated sigh.. -.. Wow what on earth?!.. -he exhaled.. rubbing his fingers across his chin.. he read down the information contained.. how he would be holding the seminar.. when it was and where.. how he was indeed quite wealthy and eligible..and looking for a bride.. his brows furrowed-.. Well this is all rather awkward.. -he folded the paper back up then.. kind of turning it between his fingers for a moment or two-.. The local paper in the city likes a good bit of gossip.. they run wild quite often with tales that arent necessarily true.. it could well be from them.. I really dont now.. though I -he huffed-.. cant call it gossip.. as there isn't a word thats not true on the page.. all be it in poor taste.. -he handed it back to her then.. -.. as for you spending less time around me.. You are my student.. in the eyes of the general populace you have every right to be practically at my side for the majority of this trip.. Just like Faelons girls do for him.. and even Dr Rincavornon and those two trouble makers..

-he waved his hand a bit dismissively-.. I guess.. the paper if they want to make up stories they wre going to do it regardless.. I dont want to see you getting caught in the cross fire though.. -he tilted his head-.. It would kill me to see you hurt.. physically or otherwise.. -she caught his attention when she brought out another sheet of paper then.. this time it was a map.. locations all drawn on it.. he turned it around.. feeling her fingers across the back of his palm in the process..he was about to ask what this was all about.. before she spoke on the little game.. of explorations.. to wander the city.. seeing new and unique things.. he laughed a little and nodded.. giving her hand a bit of a squeeze then.. before he picked up the map properly.. digging down into his pocket to pluck out his glasses.. sliding them to settle upon his nose.. a closer look at the locations-.. I know most of these.. but I havent been to them since i was quite a bit younger.. when I was just a student.. much like yourself.. mind you.. I didn't get up to even a quarter of the mischief you are.. -he glanced up to her with a bit of a cheeky smile before he laughed.. was that true?.. did he not have a teacher he got a little cosy with?.. or was he far to into his books and study?.. he slowly moved to stand..

reaching to help her up ..he redid his suit jacket button.. and the pair of them wandered back down the path toward the waiting carriages.. he offered his hand to her.. to help her get up and inside.. before he himself would follow.. drawing the door closed..-.. close your eyes for me.. -he'd lift the map up then.. holding it in the air before her..- and hold out your hand.. finger pointed.. just kind of move it around.. where-ever you land first is where we will be going first.. -he watched her as she moved her hand about.. circling the page until she landed.. he turned.. glancing around to see where she had pointed-.. The Imperial Bilbiotheca.. Impressive..-he nodded.. turning to instruct the rider as to which direction they were taking.. he settled down beside her then.. the gentle sway of the carriage as it took the corners and moved down the streets shifted them just a little.. he slid his arm around her.. drawing her in against his side-

.. remind me.. tonight to get you the list of literature that will be covered at the conference tomorrow.. just so you have a bit of a heads up.. -he turned his head a little.. just enough so he could brush his lips to her temple-..I might need your help.. too in the morning.. you and Kit.. if you can manage to wrangle her for a few minutes.. just to make sure all the desks have the bookwork and papers ready to go before we get started.. I'd rather it go ahead without many hiccups if i can avoid them.. -he rubbed his hand along her side just lightly.. the goddess knew he was nervous enough about the whole thing.. and now that he knew that flyer existed.. well.. it just added an extra layer he wasn't even really prepared for.. there was a knock at the door there.. the rider alerting them to the fact they had arrived.. he plucked up his hat there and moved to open the door.. slipping out as he offered his hand once more.. helping her back down..

turning only then to look upon the grand structure of the library itself.. it was incredible really.. fine workmanship.. a beautiful building.. -.. Ladies first.. -he motioned for her to go through and into the building.. he wouldn't allow her to pay though.. not to even get her purse out.. he handled the transaction quickly and ushered her through before she could even think about disagreeing.. -.. Now.. I dont believe you'd be able to sneak in here after hours.. -he laughed a little.. sliding his hands down into his pockets as he wandered slowly.. drinking in the scents of the books.. old and new.. -. Though now that I mention it.. knowing you as I do.. you'd probably take it as a challenge.. -he shot her a wink there as he turned to look at some of the books there.. there was shelves upon shelves upon shelves.. -.. I havent been in here.. in years.. still smells the same.. its a beautiful building.. and the amount of knowledge in here.. unrivalled.. If you see anything you'd like.. really just let me know.. id never.. Ever say no to buying someone a book.. Ever.. mm what was it.. -he tapped his chin-.. a Book is a gift that you can open again and again and again..

-he nodded his head to a couple that were purchasing books.. walking hand in hand like a newly budding couple would.. offering them a quiet Good Afternoon.. before he would turn back to the shelves there.. plucking out one.. it was a bound folder of medical journals.. he had a bit of a laugh.. motioning her over.. flicking through a few pages.. as if he were looking for something.. chewing upon the corner of his lip.. he turned a page and then another before he turned it around to her.. there in the bottom corner was a picture of a few older doctors.. salt and pepper hair styles told of their age.. their students standing eager beside them.. clipboards and books held against their chests.. there was one with shoulder length curly hair.. -.. Look familiar?.. -he laughed just a little.. it was a library after all.. underneath the picture was a small blurb.. it noted the doctors names.. and then one medical student doctor Heny Faelon.. he would have been no more than 17.. though if she went to turn the page.. much to his dismay.. or mild protest she would catch another series of pictures.. Faelon popped up in a few.. they were of the new crop of Doctors coming up.. a few names she wouldn't recognise.. some she might have from earlier on at the funeral..

and then he would be there also.. quite a bit younger.. baby faced even.. clean shaved.. his hair concealed beneath a baseball styled cap in one picture.. a shot of Faelon and him together concentrating on whatever was inside a test tube.. looking like right proper medical students.. before he snapped the book closed.. looking more than a little bashfully awkward.. he laughed weakly and placed it back on the shelf.. -.. Right then.. I think thats more than enough of that.. -he slid the book back onto the shelf.. turning then to peruse the ones that were for sale.. a couple catching his eye.. some he hadn't seen before.. some he had been wanting to add to his collection for quite some time..and a couple for Kit.. he held Libellus de Medicinalibus the one for medicinal properties of herbs out to her-.. Do you think this would be too advanced for Kit?.. I think she'd gain quite a large amount of knowledge from it.. that is if she can decifer it.. I highly recommend it.. I have my own.. but Im not quite willing to loan that one out.. -he meant of course to Kit.. he really didn't know the girl well enough just yet-.. Or even this one.. -he crouched down.. gently plucking it from its place there- Ebers Papyrus.. too advanced maybe?.. I understand you are helping her out.. I dont expect you to take up all your own time doing so though.. dont let yourself fall behind..

[BadInfluence]

It wasn’t something she could exactly admit to… She was starving and normally she only nibbled or picked at small amounts of food, more of a grazer than a sit down and eat sort of person, this was pretty uncharacteristic of her. Truth was? She had used up more energy last night in that time with Jacob that she had ever done so before and it left her running low on energy, something that needed to be replenished like all small mammals have to have, and she was restocking her energy stores in the form of food today. She wasn’t aware it was something anyone could pick up on though, so she didn’t think a grand amount on it, just enjoyed the good food while she and Kit talked and people watched. She had answered Kit honestly, her own smile rising in return there, it was just warm and a little sweet… Precious there… “He is… Usually men are just… Well, men… But he’s so different…” She didn’t embellish on how she had sort of started to fall for him the first time she saw his dimples flashing there, that little hint that somewhere under the polished manners and proper behavior there was something who really, truly loved to laugh… Someone she just… Knew she wanted to be around. Instantly. She brought up how it was different than say, Ric and his two harpies, and she felt a twinge there for poor Kit.. “I’m sorry Kit… I feel like I should have tried to snag you or something, kept you from going over there… Rincavornon’s a beautifully wrapped pile of scat and sadly too many people are blinded by the shiny paper… Honestly I have no idea how he managed to become a doctor, I swear I could climb to his ego and kill myself by jumping to his IQ…” She said dryly, snorting softly out her nose as she did so, honestly she had not a single good thing to say about that man and probably never would. “They’ve left you alone, right? The three of those dodo birds?” She had laid down one hell of a warning for Luna and Ellen at least, the promise to rain down an unholy hellfire on their asses if they messed with Kit again, unafraid to carry out on that promise. It was a little after that Kit noticed the flyer, and she gently tried to put in it a way Kit might understand, empathize with… It’s easy to enjoy gossip for the sake of gossip, its like verbal chocolate and who doesn’t love chocolate, right? But the downside is that it can have a long of consequences, and the worst part is that a lot of it has to do about the topic being talked about, and not the people actually spreading the rumors. It was hard and hurtful and one of the main reasons she never took a part in any of it. She smiled when Kit caught onto it and gave her hands a squeeze across the table, so glad to see her starting to open up her mind to other things, and in that moment… She really, truly thought that whoever managed to win Kit’s heart, was going to be one really lucky man to have her in his life. “No, your right, port cities from what I have read tend to have a lot more men in them because of the ships and such. The fact there is such a huge influx of women means that whoever started this, has been spreading it around long enough for women to pretty much fall from the sky, and that puts a lot more stress on him. It’s hard enough to speak in a hall of that size with only those who wish to be educated, but add in the fact it’s going to be bursting at the seams with matrons and their single daughters? It’s going to be a battlefield.” And it was something she couldn’t save him from either, she couldn’t protect him from the thousands of amorous letters and looks that were surely going to be flooding his way, let alone the fact he would probably be hounded the very second he went out of doors. She and Kit finished off as much as they could before she showed her to the handsome guard who had helped her last night, watching that instant chemistry take place and waving goodbye to the set, making her rounds in town before making that crucial visit to Dr. Barathon’s house and back to the Inn to change.



She changed into her mourning suit, it was sharp and beautifully fitted to her, just the right touches here and there in details to really make it gorgeous… Of course, all Anouks handy work but she appreciated the effort and the effect, even if the only person she cared saw it was Jacob. Not that he himself looked sub-par, that suit was made for him in more than just the tailoring, it fit him better than any suit she had ever seen a man wear before but more than that… It was more than just a perfect cut and fit, it was the details that made it all his, like the knot of his tie or the cufflinks… His fedora… They say the suit makes the man, but in this instance, Jacob himself was making the suit and it was… Glorious. The whispered words there, she was about to give him a heads up, Kit having given her the info albeit without realizing she had… Before she could explain though Ric had come down and just went full tilt vile and yeah, that just flicked a nerve for her, and it wasn’t something she was just going to let slide by. It was bad enough he hurt Jacob… Bad enough he had tried to rape her… But to make these poor people, women and children, decent folk listen to that crap?! Nope! Sorry, that just rubbed her morals all sort of wrong and she went to handle it in a-typical Rose fashion, which meant blunt honestly and a dash of good old fashioned punishment. She took that chunk of Lye and shoved it in his open mouth as he went to take a bite of food, making him take down as much of it as she could, but even for her strength given size… She felt her bones almost rub together under his grip, the fire burning along her arms and she knew she was going to bruise, and bruise bad… She didn’t let up, not even a flicker of pain showing on her face, she was made of stone… A marble goddess with liquid fire in her veins… “I don’t listen to trash, I throw it out, and you keep reminding me how trashy you really are.” She snapped back, her voice icy cold, and honestly… She was in a very dangerous mood… Things were just waiting to fall and snap… The house of twigs to crumble… She stood back, the knife still in her hand, she wasn’t stupid enough to go into a fight against someone as tall and strong as him without some sort of weapon. “Careful there… Your jealousy is showing and it doesn’t suit you… Or actually… It does… It’s rather comedic… Like the rest of you. “ She said dryly with her lips curled in a cold, cruel smile, twirling the knife in her fingers… Obviously very familiar with at least this form of weaponry… She watched him toss the plate and she shook her head, coming around to the side where the mess was, watching him get up to leave. “Oh… You got something… Right… Right there…” She said to Ric then, touching the side of her face, around the area of his cheek… When he went to check or to wipe it off she just made this little mew of her mouth, her head tilting to the side a little. “Oh… My mistake… It’s just the stupid you were born with… Not much you can do about that…” She said and watched him fume and leave, Ellen and Luna behind him, and with that little quip? She idly tossed the knife towards the wall, shearing off a good chunk of Ellen’s hair with it, watching it fall to coat a spot on the floor. “And neither are either of you… Be careful what war you want to enter with me because while you two might be wanting to fight for him? He won’t do the same for you, given the chance, he will throw you both under the wagon and all you’ll be? Are a couple of track marks in the dirt. Now go on, go coddle the big petulant gorilla, I’m sure one of you two will suit as a banana for a while.” She said, watching them all go with a bit of a smile on her face, moving to clean up the broken dish and food along with the hair. She had been the cause of both messes, so she was cleaning them up, tossing both into the dustbin before leaving… Taking the knife out of the wall, noting her aim was getting better and better, she managed to get it right in the seams so there would be no mark where the blade had landed. She put it into the sink and returned out to meet Jacob in the main hall before they would leave. If he asked what she had gotten up to? She would tell him the truth. If not? Well then that was just her little secret wasn’t it?



Once they were inside the quiet of the carriage he began to explain how the Inn had ended up hearing their little tryst, telling him that no one knew it was her, that they just chalked it up to him having taken home a courtesan to ah… pass the hours… She couldn’t help the soft laugh when he chuckled and rubbed the back of his neck, a sign she was learning, meant he was embarrassed or a touch bashful about something in the conversation or surrounding. “It’s not exactly looked down upon you know… It’s not uncommon either in the same respect…” She said with a warm smile and she hoped it would help him a touch. After all, men went to courtesans and demireps all the time, it was even considered fashionable. She continued on to explain that it had really pissed Ric off, to the point he had actually put his first through the wall, enjoying the fact that Jacob’s smile spread at that. She thought he might relish that little bit of turn around… “Shame, I thought ours was pretty one of a kind… Maybe we should… Try to top it next time?” She asked, blushing crimson there at her own daring, because honestly… Holy Crap… She had never said anything like that in her life! Hell just asking him to become her lover had been so nerve wracking she had to write that note out several times before it was even legible! Her heart began to race almost violently in her chest because of it, unsure of what he might or might not say, but she didn’t regret it… Not a single syllable. He had reached for her hand a little bit later and that blush shifted, something warm and sweet, looking up at him with her heart doing a whole different sort of racing… Flips and starts… Delicate twirls and leaps… She squeezed his hand back gently, running her thumb over his, a bashful smile on her lips. “Maybe that’s just how it’s supposed to be with us…” She said gently before they settled in once more… A few moments later he was showing her the long red scratches on her chest, honestly it made her laugh, apologizing for them. She had been so very lost in the moment it was all reactions, she didn’t think, she just felt and he had become her sort of art board… Drawing out lines of her passion on his skin with her nails like they were dipped in red ink… She bit her bottom lip full on at his words and there was no denying a smile there at the corners of her mouth. “That’s a relief… I don’t think I can control myself when you ah…” She left it there, dangling deliciously in the air between them, knowing his mind could fill in oh so many gaps with just what she might have said… Of course he wasn’t the only one with battle wounds, laughing as she lifted her skirt to show him her own, though she was far from blind to his reaction. She saw the way his jaw dropped a little as she pulled it up, the way his eyes ran to the tops of the stockings, the red garters… She made note of it… Perhaps she might, when funds allowed, pick up a couple more… Maybe in some other daring colors… Just to watch his reaction in moments like these, just little hidden things, like surprise presents for his eyes only… His reply had them both laughing, honestly it was sweet and funny all at once, the both of them bearing marks they wore from the heat of passion… It was desire mixed with that sweet friendship they shared with a dose of simple good humor added to it, making this rather heady, wonderful little cocktail they enjoyed in the carriage. Something he probably needed before they got to the Funeral, for him to be able to see he could still laugh despite it all, that the world… Wasn’t dark because of a person’s passing, smaller, new lights would take their place…



They had arrived then to the garden grounds, and honestly she thought it was a beautiful place to be laid to rest, far from uniformed and sterile like some other places, this seemed more… Natural… Peaceful… She stood at his side for every and any introduction he wished to make, her best manners on display, showing a humble but kind personality… One that was intelligent but didn’t boast, took care with every name given and the information with it, making sure to she had something intelligent or kind to say for each one… Jacob did have reasons to be proud of her, even if she herself might not see it, she could easily impress even the coldest hearted miser there. She followed him through the lines, the repeated messages of those they met, down to the front to stand by Dr. Barathon and little Grace. Their meeting was sweet, seeing him with her definitely did some strange new things to her heart, made her head spin and a whole different emotion come surging up… One she had never felt before let alone place… It was a few moments later when things began and she remained strong there, wanting to help, to support how ever she could… Not just for Jacob but for anyone there, a strong gentle figure in the crowd, silently pouring out her empathy and support to any who might feel it. When Jacob reached for her hand she was there, taking it in her own, anchoring him to the spot… But not to the moment… She let him move, to let the emotions course through him, to be a part of him but not consume him… To feel but not be overwhelmed… She gently moved her hand to his back, to gently run along it, soothing him while letting him know it was alright… She was here… Passing him the handkerchief a few moments later for his own tears, but never once did she let go, she held his hand through to the end when he got the flower… She was offered one of her own but she didn’t have anything she could truly say to a stranger, nothing that would be real and meaningful, so she said nothing… Instead she did something, and while for her it was exhaustive to try and force her powers into one stream, like trying to pour concrete through a straw it was painstaking… She did manage it though, the hybrid flowering tree that was part gardenia and part white lily began to grow up there, strong and resilient but still small… It would grow with Gracey through her life and past it, and in time when the decades has passed, would cover their entire family and beyond… It might not be much… It might, in the end, just be a tree… But for her… It was the kindest thing she could do. It was a lasting testament to the woman who lay in the earth now, a sort of gentle reminder of her bones and who she had once been, so later on… As the tree grew… It would be as sheltering and beautiful as the woman herself had once been. It was exhaustive though and she ended up sagging, grateful for Jacob’s strength in the moment, needing a few to catch her breath… It was a bit like getting the wind knocked out of you, it leaves you short of breath and more than a little dizzy, just consuming you for several minutes before it passes.



The walk to the small bench was easy, she found the peace here incredibly alluring, something about the space itself… Harmony with nature… It just settled her heart… She felt his fingers take her own, looking up at him as he told her he knew what she had gotten up to that morning, telling him she was only doing as she felt he would have done… She knew if his heart wasn’t so very raw with grief he would have done something for little Gracey and Dr. Barathon himself, it was only that this moment struck him incredibly close to home that he had a hard time of it, made him struggle to do much more than simply exist… She sighed softly when he kissed her forehead, pulling back only enough to lift her veil, looking up into those beautiful duo colored eyes, reaching up to gently caress his cheek… He was hurting… But she also knew the pain he felt wasn’t as much as it had been yesterday, or the day before, he was… Healing… His words caused her to reach up and take him into her arms, to slide his fedora off and gently comb her fingers through his hair, whispering next to his ear. “I promise you will never have to find out…” She wasn’t going anywhere… She was here, his shadow, his anchor and his rock… She would remain here, even if he pushed her away, because she knew… Deep in her heart… They were that spot for each other… They had the other persons missing pieces inside themselves and she would never take that from him… They would move to the bench a few moments later, sitting down comfortably and she would then offer him a cigarette, one of the one’s she had blended just for him, a curious experiment but one she knew was safe. Even if she didn’t smoke that didn’t mean her knowledge of herbs wouldn’t allow her to understand what would work… And what wouldn’t… She confessed she made them for him when she figured his had been given a hot spring bath, her head tilting a little when he said yes and no, waiting for him to explain. When he said some had been destroyed in his little impromptu dive she nodded her head, but when he said he had destroyed the others, because of what she had told him… About what had been done to her as a child… “Oh, Jacob…” Knowing he had destroyed his own source of relief because it was laced with something that had been a source of darkness in her life… That touched her in a grand and profound way, deep in her heart and her fingers reached out for his, lacing and holding his hand close… Tight… Resting it over her heart. “Thank you…” It was simple but she wasn’t sure how else to say it, it was a grand, profound gesture to her… He asked about then and she released his hand, reaching into her purse to pull out a list and the small wooden case that held the cigarettes, each set wrapped in a different colored paper. “They’re all a little different I admit… Sometimes you might need something different and I wanted to try my hand at a variety.” She left the list in his hand, it was all so methodical and organized, just how many grams in each and what it was made with… A bit like a medical chart but even better… The one he had right now had a black casing on it, which meant it was a slight mood enhancer with an anti-depressant, something that would help take the edge off of his sadness… Make it easier to bear… There was coltsfoot leaf, mullein leaf, celandine and wild dagga flowers and leaves, along with jasmine flower, damiana and blue lotus… It made for an incredibly smooth smoke, easy on the lungs and with a delicious mouth taste, a bit like herbal tea and a touch of something sweet… It also didn’t cling to ones clothes since no actual tobacco was in it, and the herbs with the cloves smelled more like a freshener satchel left in one’s closet rather than a smoke, making it ideal for him to enjoy in public places. There were others listed there, some were downers that contained things like klip dagga leaf, marihuanilla and lactuca virosa, Chinese wormwood and nettle. There were even a couple to help him focus on things important or recall old memories, these were made with Sinicuichi leaf, coltsfoot, and mugwort. “I don’t know if they will be able to supplant the ones you used to have, but these don’t contain any opium at all, and as you can see… Every item is listed so you can pick according to what you want or need that moment.”



They were able to relax there for a few moments, watching as he unbuttoned his shirt and just let himself go for a moment, something she was sure was going to help him down the road today. A few moments later she would show him the rose pin she had been left this morning with her clothes, curious and confused about it, heck about the whole event really… She would have chalked up the vision to simply being a sexually sated dream and left it there, but it was more than that, and the pin had proven it. More than that though? Nothing… She was drawing massive blanks and she knew asking him would give her some answers… After all, this Goldenheart had called Jacob one of her Paramours, so surely he had to have SOME information… Right? “It’s too small and simple to be Anouks, I knew that much, and I wouldn’t know when you had a chance to sneak into my room to leave it sooo…” She said with a gentle shrug of her shoulders as she let it drift off, listening to what he said, her brows furrowing for a moment. She remained still while he replaced it there on her jacket over her heart, shaking her head at his question, feeling a bit… Out of her depth… “I only know the human ones and even then not enough to really matter…” She knew about God and this Jesus dude, she’d been there with the other children every Sunday going to church, but none of it ever stuck with her… She knew about it but it wasn’t a part of her, just a tool she used to help people, like Gracey in her sorrow… Just another way to communicate. When he tapped his finger over the pin a few words later and that it belonged to Hanali, a few things clicked over, things form the book… She was the goddess Jacob had spoken of once or twice… So she at least got that much, which helped keep her from feeling she was foundering just a little, her usually calm expression was replaced by something akin to deep thought… She looked up when he tapped the back of his ear and she ended up instantly shifting, her smile on her face lopsided and a little cheeky, a brow raised there on her forehead. “I suppose I should explore a little more thoroughly to discover all these secret places where your tattoo’s are hidden… I was pretty close to that one last night and I couldn’t see a thing…” Oh yes… She was teasing him just a little… A touch cheeky… A little wry… A moment later he said he was actually intending to ask her and she ended up blushing all over again, blinking in surprise because, well… She hadn’t expected it… At all… A part of her mind… Was still refusing to hope for anything more than what they had, right here, right now… A little less than lovers… A little more than friends… Labeless and unconnected… Wishing for anything more was like openly begging for heartbreak and sorrow… But those words… Damn him sometimes… He really… Really made her hope… Made her want to dream… It was safe… Easy to love him and not expect anything back… It was a way that she could feel for him without hurting either one but… If he was feeling something back… That changed it all… “You know I’ve avoided every single one so far… I’m personally rather terrified of a place that can induce lust just by breathing, even out of the main area, just in passing you can see couples wandering off to enjoy it’s after effects… I always skirt around it with a little protection spell trinket I borrowed so I don’t get any of it on me…” After all, that stuff had one HELL of a radius, you didn’t even have to be at the main area to get smacked by the stuff. She wasn’t about to go and take any risks on her trips over, nope, no thank you! But this time… Jacob wanted her to go with him… A Goddess of love herself had asked her to come… It wasn’t exactly like she could put the breaks on now, could she? After all, Hanali was one of her people’s goddesses, an elvish one… That mattered, didn’t it? “I will have to ask Anouk if anything I have so far is good enough for such an event…” She wasn’t about to say she had officially spent the last big chunk of her savings on Gracey’s doll, the wreath, and Jacobs pocket music box… Surely she had… Something right? If not well.. She’d manage somehow… She always did. Maybe by then she would have gotten her first payment as an intern? That might help… “But… Can you promise me something Jacob?” She would ask softly, reaching out to rest her fingers on his arm a moment, just a gentle touch. “Ask me anyways… When you’re ready… She might be the goddess of the elves… But if I go… It won’t be to dance with her… It will be for you… And only you.” She wanted them both to have that chance… For him to officially ask someone and for her… Well… She’d never been asked out before… It would be her first real, true date, unless of course Jacob decided otherwise but… It was still something she was sure would be special. She was curious though, this thought in her head about the pin, wondering just what he meant by protection… Access… “Maybe later on you can explain more about this pin to me… What you mean by protection and specialty access? I’m a bit lost there and I can’t really imagine what it might mean… Maybe one of these nights over dinner or something…” She wouldn’t rack his mind about it right now, he had enough going on, and she had something else to talk to him about anyways…



Like the flyer she handed to him with a gentle warning of caution… Kit had noticed the massive influx in women too, as much as she had, even the Inn was packed to the gills with women just hours after Jacob and the group arrived… Only an idiot would have been blind to the changes. She watched his reactions as he unfolded the flier and she actually winced, an expression of sympathy and regret on her face, figuring he didn’t know about it… She reached out to rub her hand along his back again, figuring that this was a pretty unpleasant surprise, a bit like finding an eyeball in your soup sort of thing… She was warm and supportive, about to say something when he said that none of it was exactly false and she damn near fell off of the bench, her eyes widening in shock but she quickly schooled her features… Calm lines… She didn’t stop soothing his back either but her mind… Oh sweet Christ… She bit her tongue to keep from asking about a hundred different questions, remembering to respect his privacy, if he wanted to tell her something? He would. It was NONE of her business, or her right, to pry into his personal and private life. In the end? It was just a gentle reminder… Not to dream… Dreaming was dangerous, so was hoping, and right now she couldn’t afford either one. Keep to your studies, she told herself, focus on her work… Get the career you dream of and live a comfortable life… Hoping for anything else was suicide… Instead she asked if he might prefer there be a bit of distance between them, so he could move a bit more freely about, keep the rumors or gossip down to a minimum… His words in response though had her shaking her head… He was missing a vital point here… “Dr. Faelon is married… Dr. Rincavornon has a bad reputation as it is so no one will pay him any mind… And you? Are apparently wealthy, single, and looking for a wife. I might be your student, to those of the educated and medical world they will understand my position with you, but everyone else? Won’t see it that way. You know I work perfectly well on my own, I’m studious and determined, and need very little if any guidance… I won’t get in the way of your heart Jacob, and I certainly won’t hinder you if there is a lady you want to pursue that you meet in the crowd, you know that… I just… I want you happy…” With, or without me, she finished unsaid in her head… She might give him butterflies… She might be his rock… They might be like a match and petrol behind closed doors… But that’s not love… She loved him enough to do anything she could… Even step aside to let him love someone else if that was the way it was meant to go… Though… It didn’t make it hurt any less either… Somewhere along the last few days she must have started to dream… To hope… To want… Otherwise surely it wouldn’t be such a bitter sadness in her chest. She wouldn’t pursue that anymore though, she decided to change the mood and bring it up a few notches, a distinctive effort on her part but one she could… Would… Do. “Psh… Good luck on getting me about anything in the papers. I’m just a no name orphan from a small town, there’s nothing juicy or interesting about my life, even if they stretched the truth a thousand miles it would still put readers to sleep.” She said with a laugh. “I promise, you won’t have to worry about me, I’m just a spot on the wallpaper in a room of orchids.” She said with a nod and a smile, pushing the feelings aside, refusing to be anything but a happy light in his day for him. She took out the little map then, gently tracing her fingers over his palm, changing the mood for them both. She explained that this could be made into a game, something fun and enjoyable for them both, a way to chase away the gloom of today. That they had to point out something new and unique there, each one would get a point if they managed to find something, which could in the end result in a favor owed the other.



She watched him put on his glasses and she smiled, just forgetting the damn flyer for the moment, and just… Not hoping but… Letting herself slide into that soft familiar nest being around him made in her heart. “Mmm? Did you really? That’s a lot of exploring though… It sounds like you had a bit of fun here. I heard two of these places are really haunted, and I really want to see them I won’t lie, it’s sort of fascinating. I don’t believe in ghosts, I think it’s a big old load of hub-bub but still, wouldn’t it be kind of amazing to see one? I wonder what it would be like?” Oh her eyes were dancing, sparkling with an inquisitive and curious light, revealing a little secret to him… That she was actually very curious about things well outside the realm of fact and medical knowledge, that the idea of seeing a ghost, of visiting a haunted area really did get her excited. She blinked up at him when he said that he didn’t get up to a quarter of the mischief he did and she just… Reacted… Knee jerk… And raised his hand to nip at his finger before poking him in the side. “You made it sound like I’m some wee little criminal you’re hiding in your pocket Jacob Anikin!” She said, wagging her finger at him before she started to laugh, shaking her head and tilting her head back to look up at the leafy canopy… The leaves starting to change a little… One by one… Fall was coming on fast… A month or less and all the leaves would be gone and the streets coated with frost and dim flame colored leaves… “I bet you got up into plenty of your own mischief… After all, you picked up on my streak fast and easy, and only people with a similar streak can pick it up in others… So what did YOU get up into? Hmm?...” She teased, moving in to quickly tickle a this sides, laughing softly as she saw him smile, and she knew… Then and there… She couldn’t stop herself from hoping… Or dreaming… It was as primal and needed to her as breathing around him… And she knew… She was going to be hurt maybe… He would find someone to love… Some other woman to make scream his name… She would be a footnote in his life… But he would be the title of her life’s book… Love… It can be bittersweet at times…



She got up with him, taking his offered hand with a smile as she followed along with him to the carriage, his assistance into the carriage was still needed and appreciated. She couldn’t wait to slip into something a little more comfortable later, for as gorgeous as this suit was, it was like moving while being wrapped up like a mummy almost. She settled into the seat before he asked her to close her eyes, a brow raising but she did as she was asked, closing them both and moving her finger around… Unable to help the little laughter that kept spilling from her as she moved it around… Swaying it before she finally set it down, opening her eyes to see the spot, hearing him name the location. “Oh! The Library! Yes! I wanted to get to that at some point but I’m excited it’s today! I get to share it with you!” She said, excitedly bouncing in her seat a little, clapping her hands together excitedly. She watched as he gave the directions to the driver become moving to sit with her, her cheeks flushing all over again, dipping her head just a touch… She let everything inside her go with a breath and just gave it up to fate and this Lady Goldenheart… If she was the goddess of Love then she would know a whole lot better than her what the hell to do… She let the thoughts float away for a moment before he ended up pulling her a little closer into his side, letting out that soft happy sigh as she rested her head on his shoulder, hearing his request. “Mmm of course… Kit is sort of part your student and part Dr. Faelons… And she really is eager to help, honestly, she’s made such a big turn around… You’d never know how she was before, you’d never believe it, she’s just… Growing in these leaps and bounds… Her own little star…” She was so proud of Kit, she really was, even though she personally played little part in it… She just gave her a push in the right direction and suddenly Kit just started to grow and grow, out of the rocky poisonous soil she had been growing in she was now safe and healthy… Nurtured in a happy, healthy environment and it was just phenomenal to see how she was changing, shifting into her own true self. “I might have played a little bit of match maker for her today… There was a very chivalrous guard who had assisted me last night and he left me his card and I thought Kit and he would really hit it off… They’ve been on a date since this morning and I’m sure they’re having fun. I’ll ask Kit as soon as she gets in if she wants to help, but if not, I’m sure I can manage it just fine. I’m good with this sort of stuff.” She said, nodding her head as she let her eyes slip closed at the kiss to her temple, feeling his tension there… Her lips curling in a smile for a moment. “You’re going to be amazing… Even if the event is full of hiccups, I know you’re going to knock it out of the park, it’s just who you are… I have faith in you Jacob.” She said with a gentle nod before they arrived, a little disappointed that their bubble was burst, but still… She was far too excited to see this grand library! She slipped out with his help and her jaw literally dropped when she stood outside of it.. “Holy Bat Guano… This… Is not your every day library…” She said in awe, following at his side as he ushered her up the front steps, catching then at the last moment the sign… Entrance fee… Crap! She didn’t have that… Well… Maybe? She bit her lip and would go to her purse but before she could even open it, Jacob had already paid the fee and was guiding her up into the building, looking at him with flushing cheeks and a bit of confusion… Did he know she was strapped? Or?... She wasn’t sure…



She ended up pausing in the entry hall again, slowly turning as she looked around her, never having seen so many books in her whole entire life… “A bookworm could fall in love with a place like this…” She breathed before he mentioned that little tease there, her brows rising as she looked at him, her eyes sparking a challenge instantly. “You think so there, Mr. Dr. Smartypants?” She asked, placing her hands on her hips with a saucy tilt to them, her chin up at just the right angle… She looked like she could conquer the world… Or him… Brow raised there on her face like a four foot such and so tall goddess. She tapped her foot, her eyes canning over the rooms, the ceiling… She caught a drift then, not from an open window, the books were too priceless… She began to sport the cockiest little grin there as she walked a little bit away, following the breeze to look up, spotting a large air duct… She waited… Silent… No sound of blades… “Right there…” She said, pointing up to the vent, it was one of six on the second floor, a mirror to the ones across the room. “There’s fresh filtered air coming through there, but no fan blades, which means it’s powered by a natural breeze… You can’t smell any salt or humidity so you know there’s at least three or four cotton filters along the pipe. All I’d need is a rope and a knife and I could shimmy right into this place no problem.” She said with a nod and a wink from him before she began to wander off again, this time letting her eyes lead her along the books, wondering just what might catch her eye… His last comment though… Oh turn about was fair game, wasn’t it? “Are you sure it’s a book they say that about and not a good woman?” She’d ask with the most innocent expression on her face as she sashayed away in that tight little suit of hers, tossing him a wink over her shoulder as she headed down the medical isle, wanting to see what she would never have access to anywhere else. They weren’t far from each other when she heard him laughing and she came forward to investigate, tilting her head to look down at the offered portraits… “Oh my GOD! Is that Dr. Faelon!” She asked in a hushed whisper, her eyes wide as she looked at the young Henry with long shoulder length curls, hand over her mouth to smother her giggle. She would gently go to turn the other page and sure enough, she saw more portraits, little bits of information on them… And a young, baby faced Jacob in a hat, along with other doctors… Many she made acquaintances with today, allowing her to gain a little more information there, others she had yet to meet… She ran her finger over his photo before he snapped the book closed and she started laughing. “Hey!” She said, trying to snag it from him but he put it up, just out of her reach… She began to jump, reaching up, arms flailing and she could just… JUST touch the binding of the spine but nothing else. “Dang it… You were cute too!” She said, huffing as she reset her hat, pulling her jacket back down into place. She followed along behind him to the books that were for sale and she almost swallowed her tongue at one she saw, dropping to her knees to drag it out from under the pile it was under. She was working on it when he showed her the books he was thinking about for Kat, turning her head to look up at him, this warm loving smile on her lips. “ I speak latin so I can teach her, that was one of the first books I read and I know it’s amazingly useful… Plus I think that one is the updated version? The reprint so it’s got a bit more information in it too I think… That one would be excellent…” She said with a nod, smiling at his thoughts for Kit, and just how wonderful he was… When he brought out the Ebers Papyrus she hesitated… “It’s not so much as it’s complicated although it is… She’s smart enough to figure it out, its more so it’s going to be too much for her at one time, especially on top of Libellus de Medicinalibus… Plus the Ebers is strictly Egyptian and African herbology where as the other is more world wide and ones she will come into contact with a lot more often…” She said, standing up as she opened both books up next to each other, going over the various lists in each one… “I won’t fall behind, I promise, I actually… Well… I’ll tell you another time maybe…” She said as she rubbed her arms subconsciously where Ric had bruised her, trying to ease the ache that was coming in now thanks to the cooler room temperature and the fact she had been tugging on a book. “But you know… The library in town DOES have the original and I learned from it just fine… Where as the Ebers is a really elusive and rare piece of information… Hmmm… Plus you don’t need to translate the Ebers since it’s done for you, unlike the Libellus which is mostly in latin…” She said, as if making up her mind, and offering him the Ebers book as a gift for Kit. “This one for sure… I know she’ll devour it and you’ll really be giving her a huge leap forward too.” She said before she went back down to her book, she’d only managed to get it about two inches out and she was determined to get it, to the point she began to really work on it… Carefully wriggling it back and forth so as to not upset the books over or under it, a look of intense concentration on her face before finally, she got it out some minutes later. She let out a puff of air before she would hand the book to him with a glowing smile. It was the most recent copy of the Medical Encyclopedia, over 4,000 pages of information there, with everything from diseases to rare medical conditions and beyond. The reason it was down there? Was most likely because someone was trying to save it for later and didn’t want it to be snatched up. In the end? Too bad! It was hers now!



She would wait for him to make his purchases before she found one last little book, a pocket thing really, and only fifty coppers which she could afford… And slipped that one into her purse before they left with their gifts in tow and got back into the waiting carriage. She was fanning herself and laughing for a moment before she would hold up the map for him this time, having him close his eyes and choose, watching him weave his hand around… Almost missing the page twice before he rested his finger over a spot, laughing as she turned it around, settling in at his side with her legs curled up beside her before she told him where he had picked. The Mistral tea shop. She would let Jacob take the course form there, the place wasn’t too far from where they were, and she let the window down to invite a bit of the cooler air in. She was quite warm but didn’t dare take her jacket off, just enduring it in silence for now, leaning her head on his shoulder until they arrived. She would follow out behind him before looking up at the cute little entry area, tilted her head as they made their way into a place that looked like a cross between a gypsy house and Arabian nights, all sorts of soft cushions to sit on and couches to lounge… It was romantic and quaint all at once, and far from empty which made her sort of draw into herself a bit, careful not to make too friendly movements with Jacob. The could pick any place they wanted so she picked the one farther towards the back, more private and sheltered, less likely to be seen or interrupted. She stood by the entry to the Arabian alcove with the cool marble flooring and took her shoes off, sighing as she left them by the doorway and curled up into the biggest fluffiest pillow ever… Making her this little gold and black spot in the middle. “I have to say… This? Is pretty amazing! I’ve never seen decorations like this outside of books, and it smells amazing in here, things I’ve never thought of… Oh! Before I forget… Here…” She said, slipping forward and handing him the little book she had gotten for him, small enough to fit into his breast pocket… It didn’t really have much of a name on it, so much that the cover was spread in stars picked out in silver leaf and a moon made out of a piece of quartz… Each page, as he opened it, would have a quote of something profound or amazing… Inspirational… Pick me ups… Sometimes a little tongue in cheek humor… Things that could speak to the soul, the heart and the mind, all in a way that way easy to grasp and enjoy. “I know your nervous about tomorrow… So I got this for you… Whenever your nerves start to pick up, just pick a page, from start to finish or just random… But I promise it will help beat that worry monster back until you hit that stage and shine like the star I know you to be.” She said, with love there in her voice as she would gently press it into his hands, giving them a soft squeeze before the waiter came up. He carried a menu for them both but she also asked for a bit of a private moment with him… Once she waiter leaned down she would ask if they could make her a certain cup of tea… Listing the ingredients the gypsy nodded and tapped the side of his nose, her lips curling in a smile before she ordered that cup and one other, this one called hibiscus dream long with some little cucumber and butter sandwiches and some sour dough toast. The waiter would then take Jacobs order, disappearing before retuning with just one cup for her, the moon tea… She settled down to drink it, knowing it was bitter as hell and not something you sipped, making a slight face as she downed the hot cup as quickly as she dared. It burned down through her throat and settled warm in her tummy, making her hot enough to unbutton her jacket and take her hat off, letting her hair down before she piled it loosely atop her head and off of her neck. She was flushing because of the heat, picking up the menu to fan herself a bit, wriggling her cute little well formed toes along the cool marble flooring. “Mmm…” She said, tapping her fingers on her knees, a little… Fidgety… Maybe nervous?...



“So… Back at the library… Remember I mentioned I wanted to do something but… I didn’t say what?... Well… I… To be honest I’m a bit worried… About being able to graduate… After what Ric did and his behavior… I am sure he is going to try make sure I don’t graduate…” Thin ice… He threatened her with thin ice… Like he had already planned on what? Letting her wade out farther to let her sink and die? You don’t make that sort of threat unless you already had cards stacked against that person. She figured she had earned his wrath that first day and it was only getting worse… And she honestly didn’t care to move it otherwise… She honestly hated him and she wouldn’t pull a single punch she landed on him… Even if it earned her more bruises like the ones she was sporting. It was worth it just to watch that jackass wriggle like a worm on a red hot hook. “I know I’m not the brightest bulb in the box, there is a lot, so much I need to learn… But I don’t think I am going to be given the time to do it… Is there… Well… Maybe I can go to- “ She said but before she could get the rest out, the waiter had come with their drinks and food, setting it down on the table between them. She went oddly silent as she reached for the little finger foods, nibbling on the ends of them with a very pensive look on her face… Letting the silence stretch on before she spoke again. “Is there an accelerated course I can take? I know the program is already fast, it’s a year long internship that’s hard enough to make a lot of people drop out but I want this, I want this badly Jacob… I want to become a doctor and I won’t let anyone stop me… But that also means I need to move faster than he can…” She said, blushing as she confessed, and honestly… She felt like a real asshole… Like somehow in asking this she thought she was better than anyone else, like she could do in less time what others worked a long time for… As if she had a massive ego… She felt terrible she really, really did, and it was there on her face… But she was stuck between a rock and a hard place… She had lions on her left, and an alligator on her right… Luna and Ellen were bad enough on their own, she knew she could battle with them but only at the risk of losing time in which she wanted to study… Would need to in order to do what she was asking… Add to the fact Ric was there too? She wouldn’t put it past him to try and attempt another rape at any moment he could, just to hurt her, to try and break her… It was an ugly situation and while yes… She could keep on the regular path… She could stay on the year one she was on now… There was no guarantee of her safety… She could either try to nip it all in the bud on an accelerated course… Or go the traditional route and risk escalating wrath and ire… Because honestly? There was no way in hell she was going to let anyone… Anyone… Hurt her Jacob… And that meant fighting in the shadows for him. “I’m not… I’m not trying to be egotistical or anything, honestly I don’t think I’m all that great but… I am determined, I have a goal in mind I want to reach, and I’ll work as hard as I have to in order to get there… But I can’t do something that’s not available… I know it’s an odd question, I know, but I’m just… I’m trying to make things as smooth as I can… For everyone…”

[Deleted]

..the cafe was nice really.. it wasn't too busy or noisy for that matter.. it was peaceful and quiet..just a few couples dotted here and there.. and a family or two.. it was afterall still quite early in the day most would probably still be resting or just moving to rise in those moments..Kit listened as you spoke about the good and honerable Dr Anikin.. how he was so different from the other men around..she nodded a little-.(K). He seems really very kind.. and extremely smart.. -she felt embarrassed for what she had done to him that one time.. and when she had a spare moment with him she was going to apologise.. she'd more or less been put up to it.. and only now realised just how wrong that was.. she shook her head when you said sorry for not helping her out earlier-.. You werent to know what was happening.. and plus.. You had your own stuff to organise.. you're not my sitter.. I should have known better really.. distanced myself long ago.. I guess I just really wanted to fit in.. -she took another drink of her warmed coffee there.. cradling the mug between her fingers to warm her hands.. lowering her voice a little-.. you know.. he's really not that smart.. -she shook her head.. referring to Dr Rincavornon-.. in the time I had been under his tuition we never read a single book.. was taught a single thing.. he never mentions the work or brings up the hospital at all.. I question really.. wether he knows anything.. I understand he has gone through surgeries with both Dr Faelon and Dr Anikin.. but.. i dont know.. have you noticed.. that when things get serious.. its just Dr Faelon and Anikin that work together.. -she pursed her lips together-.. Dr Rincavornon seems to disappear when the going gets tough.. if you get what I mean.. -were it possible that he was riding on the other doctors coat tails?..she nodded when you asked if the two harpies were leaving her alone-.. for the most part.. like I dont activley look out for them.. and I do my best to keep my distance.. I have gotten a couple of looks.. but..im just ignoring it.. dont worry about me.. -she offered a smile-.. Ill be ok.. it's thanks to you that I am pushing so far ahead.. and actually really enjoying it.. Its all very interesting and intriguing.. -she was really enjoying it.. it wasn't easy.. quite a challenge indeed.. but it felt good to strive for something.. who knows she might not get through it.. it might not be for her.. but she could at least say she gave it her best shot..they spoke a little more about the flyer.. the two of them easily coming to the conclusion that it wasn't right.. and how Jacob would be hounded by all manner of women.. Mothers with eligible daughters and the like.. before setting out.. where they would catch up with the Guard.. the pair of them matching almost instantly..


The funeral was hauntingly sad.. the silence that hung about the area when the minister read from the book of passages.. all of it just made everyone feel so incredibly weighted down.. it wouldn't be until after the fact .. when people started to leave that the feeling would slowly fade.. he had guided her to a seat there.. settling down beside her.. he never expected to be in this position.. he figured this trip was going to be quite simple and easy.. the conference sure was going to be the spike in his anxiety.. but overall.. it was meant to be simple.. everything that could go wrong had so far.. along with a lot that went just perfectly right.. he graciously took the cigarette then.. it wasn't what he normally used.. but he was more than willing to give it a shot.. his nerves already being a bit frayed.. it was quite smooth really.. and it surprised him a little.. she told him of what it contained.. what she had put together in there for him.. to calm him.. he was quite impressed really.. so very many hidden talents there.. he had unbuttoned his suit jacket so he could relax a little more.. sinking back into the chair as he drew from the herbal cigarette.. when she showed him the pin though.. Wow.. well that certainly took him by surprise.. making him sit upright.. he'd not seen a golden rose pin in a very long time.. he just about dropped the smoke in the process before he reached up to withdraw it from between his lips.. he asked her if she knew of the gods from their world.. not the human one.. a curious look crossed his features when she said no.. that she only knew of the ones on the surface..-.. mm...wow there is a lot for you to learn.. when it comes to the gods and goddess of our worlds and beyond.. it's even perhaps a bit more complicated than that of whats here on the surface.. so to speak.. -he reached across to slide the pin back onto her lapel there before taking another drag from the cigarette-. Hanali.. is the goddess that I follow.. quite closely being a Paramour.. She serves as the deity of romantic love.. and all beauty. She resides and holds the realm of Arvandor between her hands.. embodying joy, love, beauty all things special to ones heart. Its why her festivals revolve around it.. all aspects of it.. -he exhaled a thin line of smoke then.. glancing across to her..he paused a moment.. rubbing his lips together-..

We have a system.. for those that chose to follow the goddess.. for those who wish to fall into service.. -he rubbed his cheek a little-.. at the bottom.. the novices.. those just starting out are known as Beauteous.. from there is goes.. Dove, Suitor.. Lover..-he paused a moment as if thinking-.. Libertine.. Soft Caress, Hearts Desire.. and then Fiery Ador.. there are a few that come after that.. if they specialise in certain things they have individual.. more unique titles.. and then.. -he motioned to himself-.. there's the Paramours.. Full priests of the Heart of Gold.. we preside over marriage and rites of passage.. which.. there are a lot of.. -he laughed a little-.. Im not sure how much it is you know.. having been brought up on the surface.. -he didn't want to press her.. or make her feel uncomfortable.. -.. I could show you one of these days.. if you're interested.. Each member of my family.. well.. for the most part holds a position under the Goddesses guard.. so to speak.. One of my Fathers heads the Chaperones of the Moonlight Tryst.. -he waved his hand a little..-.. romantically inclined rangers.. it's all really quite intriguing.. they work within the fine threads of fate.. to make sure young lovers meet.. without force or .. well you dont need to hear me ramble.. another time for sure..

-he offered a smile there..turning to show her the rose tattooed just behind his right ear.. her comment made his cheeks colour just a little and he cleared his throat.. giving her an amused look-.. mmhmm.. -he murmured-.. generally they are worn as a brooch.. or a pin.. but.. with my line of work.. i couldn't justify wearing it permanently.. as I am meant to.. this was the result.. -he told her he was going to ask her to the Heart celebration soon after.. even though his goddess had done well to ruin the surprise..but he wouldn't ask her just yet.. not right now.. he would wait till the time was right.. and when she wasn't expecting it....she told him she had avoided every single festival up until now.. that the idea of the lust dust just didn't gel.. he nodded-.. It can.. I guess from an outsiders point of view seem a little more than daunting.. the radius on it is extrodinarily large yes.. you are correct.. the pixies help to spread that stuff like wildfire.. and it works as intended.. lowers the inhibitions a little..makes you feel.. all tingly and warm.. it's an experience.. or so ive heard.. -he nodded-.. as Ive said.. I work it generally.. so in those instances I am immune to it.. not there as a guest.. but.. honestly if it makes you that uncomfortable.. you dont have to do anything you dont want to.. I'm certainly not going to force you.. not at all..

-he took one last drag of that cigarette then.. drawing back on it before putting it out with the back of his boot heel.. nodding when she spoke on Anouk having anything good enough for such an event-.. Anouk attends every year without fail.. she will know better than anyone whats required.. for women anyway.. -he chuckled and nodded-.. though most of what you need will be there.. upon your arrival.. -he knew a little about what the women had to go through.. afterall he is generally around for it.. certainly when they were announced at least.. she handed him the flyer then.. curious he was indeed until his gaze fell upon the wording..

and then of course his own picture there.. well his face told the story of exactly what he felt about it.. he wasn't terribly impressed at all.. he spoke before realising what he was actually saying.. if he had of known he naturally wouldn't have let it come out like it did.. everything on that page was true.. he was wealthy.. he was a bachelor.. he was there for the conference at that time in that place on that date.. and yes.. he was in some respects looking for a wife.. he folded the paper back up then and handed it back to her when she spoke.. tilting his head when she spoke on not getting in the way of his heart.. and that she wouldn't hinder him if there was a lady he was interested in.. that he wanted to get to know better.. he took a breath.. his hands came down to rest there upon his thighs-.. mm.. see its not really like that.. -he shook his head..-.. yes.. ok.. Im not going to lie.. I have no reason to.. certainly not to you.. I am wealthy.. I need for nothing ..financially anyway.. I have been lucky in my life up until now.. I have worked extremley hard.. and since I dont really spend.. it just continues to .. for lack of a better term.. pile up.. I am single.. you know this.. a bachelor.. a widower..-his brows furrowed-.. so yes.. I guess.. you could say I am looking for a wife.. but it's.. not like im activley looking.. if you get what I mean.. -he huffed a little.. the words werent coming out right-.. People seem to think.. and have done so since Cora passed that the only way I could get over it was to find someone else to take her place.. and.. that couldn't have been more wrong.. Thats a horrible thing to do to a person.. using them to fill a gap that someone else has left.. no.. -he shook his head-.. I wouldn't do it.. and it's why.. I hadn't even..well.. looked at another woman..

-he glanced up to her there-.. until now.. it just felt wrong.. and I kind of took myself off the shelf.. so to speak.. I ignored the advances I recieved.. people probably thought I was incredibly rude.. I threw myself into my work.. I travelled quite a bit.. back to Arvandor to help out there with the problems they are going through.. over to Shimmershine.. to help Anouk.. and then back to here.. the hospital required aid.. and I was available.. Ive received letters.. and offers.. Ive received personal visits from parents and grandparents.. i feel terrible for the young women they drag along with them.. as if they were little more than commodities to be traded..

-he scratched the side of his head before dragging his fingers back through his hair-.. so yes.. I guess in some respect.. I am looking for a wife.. for a friend.. a partner.. a lover.. just like the flyer says.. but its also not.. as the flyer says.. Im not here for a cattle call.. I hope you understand.. I dont want you to back away..I dont want you to feel you have to hide.. I wont keep you of course.. it's not like that.. you can only do what you feel comfortable doing.. and if thats settling back.. then.. I would never stop you.. but please dont on my account.. ill handle the pack of wolves.. I've been doing it for a few years now.. -he nodded.. exhaling a little-.. You are not just a no-name orphan from a small town.. you're Rose.. an exceptionally gifted medical student from that small town.. A young woman with incredibly sharp wit..a beautiful sense of humour.. who can cook and brew with such rare talents.. musically gifted.. compassionate.. should I go on?.You are so much more than you realise.. hopefully one day you'l come to see that.

-he offered her a smile.. tilting his head to the side before she would pass him the map there and he opened it up.. his glasses settling down upon his nose as he looked at her pre-arranged locations.. nodding his head.. telling her of how he knew most of them.. having visited them a long time ago.. before she spoke on a couple being haunted.. he chuckled and nodded-.. I have heard that also.. though I cant say I have visited those in particular.. his comment on her being quite the mischief maker had the desired effect though.. her laughter ringing out.. making him smile as he jerked a little when she poked him and nipped his fingers tip.. -.. Are you going to deny you arent indeed a maker of mischief young Rose? mmm?.. -those dimples appeared for a moment as he laughed and turned back to the map there.. her comment on him being just as bad.. having picked up on her streak far to easily-.. I have no idea what you are referring to.. I was as nice as pie my dear.. -he tapped the side of his nose there.. chuckling quietly to himself.. the pair of them returned to the carriage.. the destination chosen as he sank down to sit beside her this time..

his arm sliding around her as they weaved in and out of the city streets.. he asked for her help then if she would oblige him.. he just needed someone to help him settle the books in the lecture hall.. each table having one along with paper and pencils..nodding when she spoke on her little matchmaking session with Kit and this guard who she had run into.. he clucked his tongue.. the thought crossing his mind that she could do well to fit into the tryst even.. with such skills.. Oh so many opportunities lay waiting for her.. if she'd just believe in herself..he brushed his lips to her temple there as he held her at his side.. she told him she believed in him and it actually made his heart hurt a little.. swell.. tighten.. it had been a while since he had heard that from anyone other than his family.. they arrived at the Library.. he stepped out.. helping her soon there after.. the expanse of the grand old building their view for the moment and it was incredibly beautiful.. he lead her in.. making sure to pick up the tab there.. the comments on her not being able to get in here after hours had him laughing a touch.. though quietly.. it was a library afterall.. her reply was priceless.. she took the bait pretty quickly.. he looked when she pointed out how she could do it.. where she could get in and how.. his brow rising just a little.. -.. Are you going to shimmy your way along the vents Rose?. -he rubbed his chin there.. rather amused at the idea.. before he shot her a wink..

turning to the books.. perusing a few.. drinking in the scent of leather and paper.. it was really a beautiful place that he could have easily just spent the remainder of the day in.. telling her she could purchase anything she desired.. he would pick it up for her.. before he found a few of the older bound journals.. ushering her over as he flicked through a few pages..he laughed quietly when she picked up on the rather young and dashing looking Dr Faelon.. curled shoulder length hair and all-.. It certainly was.. he was quite a ladies man .. -before she went to turn the page.. getting a glimpse of the younger pictures of himself there.. before he snapped it shut.. clucking his tongue.. making sure to mention that was more than enough for today.. as he laughed a little and placed it just out of her reach..he groaned though when she said he was cute..-..Its a shame things change isn't it.. -he moved down toward the books that were for sale then.. leaving her to look about.. to take what she desired as he himself set about trying to find a couple.. perhaps a bit of a helping hand for young Kit.. he mentioned them to her.. asking for her opinion.. nodding his head in agreement-.. you make a good point there yes.-he collected up the book she had figured would be better.. glancing a little further along before he heard her huff as she managed to get a book free-.. You know i can help right?.. -he laughed a little.. taking the heavy volume from her as he turned it the right way around.. opening the cover.. glancing over what was within.. -.. Ahh.. good choice yes.. of course.. not just a pretty face are you Rose.. -he offered her a smile there as the pair of them moved toward the counter..

he purchased those few books.. having a bit of a chat with the clerk there.. about the conference.. and she was quick to share with him the hours the library was open should he require anything.. he stepped out.. allowing her to finalise her own sales.. before he would settle them with the driver.. a bag or two.. helping her back up into the carriage.. she held the map up to him this time.. he closed his eyes and pointed at the page.. going off the side every so often before he settled on one spot.. the Tea shop.. he nodded.. turning to instruct the driver before the map was folded once more.. placed down upon the seat.. his arm slid around her once more as she moved in to rest her head upon his shoulder.. arriving soon there after.. the tea shop.. this little gypsy palace.. cushions and couches.. quaint and cosy.. he waited for her to enter first.. him coming in soon after.. the scent of incense.. of oils hung low in the air.. there was lanterns in all manner of colours.. candles lit.. trinkets and decorations dotted here and there..

it was small but not cluttered.. it was just right.. he watched her as she shifted toward the back there.. he followed.. removing his boots much the same as she as he sunk down to his knees there.. unbuttoning his suit jacket.. peeling it off his frame..leaving just the crisp white shirt.. the charcoal coloured tie.. his back pressed to one of the larger cushions there as he semi reclined.. one knee bent.. his hand resting atop it.. he nodded as he looked around a little.. it wasn't really really busy but did have a few wandering here and there.. and he could hear the faint murmur of chatter from other quiet booths ..-.. I havent been here before.. I seem to recall someone telling me of something like this.. but.. no.. -he glanced toward her.. she looked incredibly comfortable there.. -.. It's really quite different.. interesting.. they must have had a lot of this shipped in.. it's all quite eastern.. beautiful.. -his brows furrowed a little when she reached to hand him the little book..-.. whats this?.. -he'd question.. taking it as he drew i open.. he turned a few pages.. seeing the quotes.. the inspirational words.. little pick-me-ups..and he smiled.. nodding his head-.. this is perfect.. Thank you.. -his hand reached across to rest atop hers a moment.. fingers curling in to squeeze.. he was genuinely impressed.. it was a beautiful sentiment..

he only glanced up when the waiter arrived there.. watching as she moved to stand to ask something.. he wouldn't press or pry.. turning back to the book there.. before sliding it down into the pocket of his suit jacket.. he would order some tea.. and enquired as to wether or not they had Mary Berry shortbread.. nodding when the waiter said he would check.. before leaving them both to it.. he let his eyes fall closed a moment.. just breathing in the room.. -.. this is nice.. really very relaxing.. -he would speak softly to her.. catching sight of when the waiter returned with that single cup there.. curious he was indeed.. turning to look to her.. when she grimaced at the tea.. watching as she downed it quickly.. he rubbed his lips together.. taking in the scent.. or more so.. singling it out from the mixture of others in the room.. noticing her suddenly become over heated.. fanning herself with the menu as she did.. he sat up a little.. -.

. you dont have to do this.. -he motioned to the cup there..not wanting to embarrass her-.. i mean.. I can.. should we.. well.. i can take care of things on my end.. I dont want you being this uncomfortable.. it's not fair.. -he moved to sit up then.. upon his knees as he reached for the shoulders of her jacket then.. going to move it down her arms.. he didn't want her passing out on him afterall.. he would settle back down to sit then.. leaning as the waiter returned with their orders.. the teas.. the breads and his shortbread.. he offered a smile and a nod.. before they were left alone once more-.. you dont have to answer of course.. I'm merely curious.. do you want children.. i mean you're young you still have.. so much time to even consider it.. I'm simply interested in your thoughts.. is this something you would be wanting in your future?.. -he turned his tea cup around then.. plucking it up as he took a small drink.. breaking the shortbread into smaller pieces.. she went on to say she was worried about being able to graduate.. he frowned a little.. confused as to just what she meant.. if there was anything he was not worried about.. it was her graduating.. if anything.. apart from Faelons gifted warriors.. he figured she'd top the group easily.. he exhaled.. nodding a little when she brought up Dr Rincavornon and all that had gone on-.. Well he is but one part in this equation.. and with what has happened so far.. between you two.. there's no way id even consider leaving you two alone.. it would be either myself or Faelon who would step in to supervise.. Honestly I dont see there being any problem with you graduating.. I mean.. you're so incredibly smart.. switched on.. you know more than most nurses do.. and we have barely even begun to scratch the surface.. weve barely even started..

-he placed his tea cup down when she went on to ask if there was any kind of accelerated program.. he paused a moment.. -.. your determination is noted.. of course.. I am unsure on whats available to you.. I can of course look into that though.. have a bit of a talk with Faelon and see what we can come up with.. it would probably mean you would be coming here.. to Narius to do a great deal of your study.. as they have a larger available area .. better equipped library.. more staff on site to work with you at any given moment.. there would be no need to wait for other groups to go through.. as will be the case back at the Manor.. You would be able to stay on with Dr Barathon -he nodded-.. but ill get back to you on it.. ok?.. Ill have a talk with Faelon tonight.. and see what can be done.. -it would mean she would be away from him for a good few months at the very least.. -.. Its not egotistical.. -he shook his head-.. you're well within your rights to ask it of me.. of course.. -he took another drink of his tea there as he sunk back in the seat once more.. taking another small bite of the lavendar scented shortbread-..I know the student doctors get together here toward the end of Spring.. it's when I did my training here.. -a thoughtful look crossed his features-.. We will see what we can do..

-he took another bite then.. brushing his hands upon one of the napkins.. he paused..-.. mm.. I dont want you to take offence to what I am about to ask.. it's just.. -his brows furrowed.. there really wasn't a right way to ask without it coming across really very wrong-.. I didn't want to be sneaky.. I figure you're much to smart for that.. but do you need some gold?.. for just every day things and so on.. I dont want you falling short.. and I dont know I have a feeling you might be getting that way.. if my deductions are indeed correct.. -he had noticed little things here and there.. like when she mentioned owning just what was in her bag back at the Manor.. he knew she had purchased the little doll and then just bits and pieces.. the music box.. all of it.. coming from an orphanage.. and a tea shop.. she wans't about to be loaded unless she was a thief.. and he really couldn't see her being one of those.. -.. Ill understand of course if you say no.. and I wont bring it up again.. but please know.. I am here to help you.. at any point.. for anything.. I dont want to see you uncomfortable.. or wanting for anything.. -he reached across to brush his fingers across the soft of her cheek there.. before his hand fell back to his lap.. he just wanted to know she was settled and ok.. if he knew she had so little funds he would have offered long ago..

he took another drink then.. allowing what he had asked to settle in.. hoping with all the gods upon his side that she wouldn't get upset with him over it.. he motioned for the waiter to approach.. before he would reach down into his pocket to retrieve the small envelope.. passing it on with a nod of his head.. it would cover their morning tea then.. -.. I noticed one of the places on the map.. was the Coriander Flower.. -he shifted across a little there..so he was seated beside her.. almost sharing the same cushion.. on an angle that meant they were practically out of sight.. short of someone literally sticking their head into their little cubicle..-.. will you meet me there.. tonight?.. say.. around 7?.. -he'd speak quietly.. his right hand raising as she'd feel the softness of his hand reaching to press and take control of her left cheek.. turning her to face him and when she did.. his lips would catch hers.. it wouldn't be strong or passion driven.. it wouldn't be fierce.. just soft and small.. quick and fleeting.. and incredibly risky.. -.. please.. -he'd whisper close there.. his gaze.. that soft blue and green would lift to catch hers.. lingering.. waiting on her response-

[BadInfluence]

Maybe that was why it was there on the map as one of the places to snag a bite in the morning. The food was delicious, the prices were fair, and it wasn’t incredibly busy. Most in were smaller families, others in black for the funeral, but all in all the typical small crowd. Maybe that was part of why she felt comfortable talking with Kit about the things she was and maybe… It was her trying to make a friend… Jacob was… A special situation and Kit… There was a lot there that they could agree on, get along with, and that made her want to try. God knew it was awkward enough but it was an attempt, a solid try, and so far it was worth it. “Without a doubt he is all of that. When he gets a chance to speak tomorrow you’ll see, he has this way of breaking things down that makes it both stick in your head, but also really easy to understand. Sort of… Sort of like music.” She said with a nod of her head, though a moment later explained she felt quite bad about not jumping in to help Kit earlier, and though she was right and she wasn’t her sitter? She still felt… Well… A little responsible. Like watching someone step in a pile of poo and not warning them before hand. “Well, you know better now, which is a huge plus, and honestly you’re really doing amazing Kit. But don’t think… Don’t think that just because your grown as much as I am, that you can’t ask for help, or lean on someone. We all need that Kit… So don’t try to carry it all on your own shoulders, ok?” She wasn’t sure how much she could help, but sometimes all you needed was an ear to listen, or a shoulder to rest on. She could offer both of those at least. She paused when the topic of persona non grata came up and her brows perked, and she leaned in, hearing that Kit pretty much came to the same conclusion she did… That Rincavornon wasn’t actually all that well lit upstairs… “You know I kind of figured that myself… Like you know the wheel is turning but the hamsters dead…” She said with dry humor, after all there was a lot of education in the manse, everyone was supposed to be learning… But the only people whoever hit the books? Were Dr. Faelons team, her and Kit, and Jacob… But Rincavornon’s team? Spent more time between the sheets than the covers of a book. “When the fire broke out? We were all busy but never once, not for a moment, did I actually see him around. I was in the childrens ward, Dr. Anikin was working on the worst burn cases with Dr. Faelon, and that was it. I never saw anyone be seen by him, yet he left with us, and came back with us… Honestly it’s incredibly fishy… I might bring that up to the other Doctors, see if they have noticed too, because if he is shirking? He’s not just cheating the students, but everyone else too.” It would definitely be something worth looking into, and honestly if she could get him out of the manse, oh my GOD what a blessing that would be for everyone! Hell she’s personally pack his bags! With a bleeding BOW. She asked if Kit was being left alone, she didn’t want Ellen and Luna to crawn up her arse now that she was trying to make something of herself, but hearing they were? Helped rest her soul a little bit. “I worry because I care, can’t have one without the other I’m afraid, but don’t worry. I’m not a worry wart or a mother hen, I just want to know you’re ok that’s all. I’ve had to deal with them for half a year on their crap list and I know it’s no fun ride. Still, I’m so glad to see you coming ahead, you know both Dr. Faelon and Dr. Anikin have both noticed and commented on it? You should really be proud.” She said with a warm smile. Even if Kit didn’t manage to pass muster she would still learn enough to push herself forward, to be proud of what she had done and what she could become, and that was just as priceless. The flyer came up and their discussion on it before they finished their plates and she got to play a little bit of cupid there, happy to see two glowing faces walk off together on a little adventure of their own, tending to her own adventures.



The funeral came and went in one of those odd moments in time where it seems to drag on forever on one hand, but in the other, it was over in a flash and left you wondering how. She herself felt a little detached because out of all there she was the only one who did not know the deceased, but that didn’t mean she couldn’t leave a mark for the family, something to last forever. Her main concern right now though was him, and she did her best to try and ground him when they split off, offering him the cigarette and the list of what was in each. They were far from perfect, she was still learning how to work around them, to try and find a perfect blend. Rations were always going to be try and miss, but she didn’t think Jacob would mind very much, especially when he said why he had thrown the others. It might not be as good as what he had, but if his conscience pricked him about the others, this would be a very close second. She might even manage to make it better if she could actually find a way to get that perfect blend, and she was sure it was there, just waiting to be discovered. She let him keep the list, he might be able to find a different sort of ration to work out, and who knew? She might run into Cynthia Faelon and since the woman worked with medication she would definitely know what could help… All options… Something interesting to play with in her down time. She showed him her pin then, curious about the what and where of it, after all it wasn’t exactly something you can randomly pick up in a shop. Not with that sort of detail, not by a human hand, no chance in hell. When he started to explain though she admitted she knew nothing about the gods of their people, she’d been an elf in alien lands through and through, the only Gods she knew of were mortal and even then not a whole lot of them. When he said there was a lot for her to learn, she couldn’t help the wry smile on her lips as she looked over the garden, shaking her head a bit. “If you haven’t noticed yet, there’s a world for me to learn, and this is just the stuff from inside your head…” After all, he was leagues, lightyears ahead of her in some areas and she was desperately trying to catch up. Still, it wasn’t off putting or daunting, it was more of a challenge. To meet him as equals… She sat still while he replaced the pin and listened as he explained a few more things, going into the ranks of those who worshiped his goddess, the one who had given her the pin and stopped by to visit them last night… “There was someone… When I was really little… Used to come by the orphanage every few months and warn me about Arvandor… About my own people… Told me going back was wrong and I should stay where I was… Few years later was when the ah… Event happened and it just sort of stuck it all together like glue. I don’t know anything about our people, like, nothing at all Jacob… I know more about the surface of our moon than our Gods and Goddesses or our customs…” It wasn’t that she didn’t want to learn, it was just more of the fact that for her, she had never really had a reason. She had gone back only to try and find her family, to heal the place where she had been found, and since she had completed both… Her family would never come back for her and the woods had been healed… In her mind she had done what she set out to do and there was nothing else about it… Until she met him… Strange how once they made that connection all of a sudden her little window pane was suddenly a whole open wall and she saw the world in a much different way than before. “I’d like that honestly… I don’t really belong here… Never have and never will… I don’t know if I will belong there any better, but if I don’t try, I won’t know.” After all, it couldn’t be worse than here, and Jacob… He really was promising her they wouldn’t use her there… So if he was telling her the truth, and he hadn’t once lied to her yet, then she trusted him… “We can talk it over… Roof of the inn over some hot cocoa?... Watch the stars move and you can tell me all about these things I’m a part of but never experienced.” It sounded pretty dreamy to her, and up there, they’d be alone and no one to bother them… Just talking as the night whittled away… She couldn’t resist the bit about the rose tattoo behind his ear, how could she, it was just too perfect! She watched him blush and clear his throat, her grin there making her eyes dance with bright warm humor, only growing with the look he gave her… Honestly she would have tried to put on an innocent face but she was going to fail so hard there wasn’t a point in trying. She confessed her lack of fondness about the lust dust, not because she had ever actually felt it, more so because she saw what it did to people. She didn’t want her feelings influenced by anything other than her own heart. Hearing that he hadn’t felt it either though had her head tilting to the side, that since he worked it he was rather immune to it at the moment, a look of thought crossing her face. That was… Definitely interesting… “Well… If we go together? Then you won’t be working it, right? So you will be free? That means you would get hit with the same dust as say, myself, when I go?” If that was the case?... “If we’re both under it… Then I won’t mind as much I don’t think… I trust you and if I’m going to go into this… I only want to go with you.”



She had to ask about the clothing though. Anouk had set her up like a princess in her own right, and while she had made sure not to get too much, Anouk had overridden her more than once! She had a wardrobe that most women would kill for and then some beside, completely and utterly tailored to her figure and style, from the toes on up it wouldn’t work with anyone BUT her. Still, that worked great here on the surface, but would it hold over in Arvandor? She rarely… Ok… She spent NO time around anyone there, she had no idea what the fashions were over there, but she had full faith in Anouk! Even if she hadn’t been there every year, she knew without a doubt that Anouk would know just what to wear and when, and it was something she was actually looking forward to! “ Anouk is a little Goddess of Fashion I swear… I think I’d trust her… No… I would trust her more than anyone else… She hasn’t steered me wrong yet…” After all, everything she wore she was catching more than a little attention, plenty of compliments and questions… Sure it was an adjustment to get used to actually being seen but still, there was no doubting the success, let alone how they made her feel… And she was certainly not blind to the way Jacob’s eyes followed her when ever they were in the room together, and especially when they were behind closed doors! Yeah… No complaints from her! She would hand him the flyer then and yeah… So that… That was… Difficult… For both of them. Strange how that could be too, wasn’t it? He was the one who was on the altar of marital slaughter, women were going to be flocking to his very doorstep, not to mention slipping him things any time he was in a crowd… Yet she was hurt by it too, if only because he hadn’t told her all of this himself, he just… Let the paper tell her instead. She thought they were close, and in a lot of ways they were, and she tried… She tried to just… Move over that part… He shared his deepest secrets and pains with her, and she loved him for it, she did… But she had to wonder… Why he hadn’t told her this? Though she did hide it well, telling him she would step into the shadows, to allow him to go looking for someone his heart desired if that was his wish… She might love him, and it might be a bitter sweet thing at the moment, to imagine him wooing and wedding someone else… But she wasn’t going to stop him either. She loved him enough to step back… Even if it hurt. Hell… Even though it felt like it was killing a part of her… She paused for a moment, working out the last bit in her head… This wasn’t the first time she’d actually seen something like this, not in the finances or being snatched up like a bleeding seal by a starving pod of orca, but more so just… The first remarriage after a partner dies or you get divorced. It’s never fun, it’s never easy, and always messy from what she’d observed. Honestly he had loaded her down with a lot of information at once, and she wasn’t about to jump head long into it, she gave him the silence and thought he deserved.



She would reach out and gently stroke her fingers up along his back then, just a very soft, warm touch… On top of everything else today, she really didn’t think he could handle this much, not all at once… Still, he was trying to explain it for her, so she understood where he was standing. He was doing this? For her. She could take it… A lot of different ways… Some women might have slapped him for it, especially after all the intimacy they had shared so far, it was pretty damming to hear… Some women would have gotten up and walked away, and those women, they’d have been within their right for it too. After all, it’s not every day you become, well… Semi-romantically involved with someone only to find out they’re this incredibly wealthy, well connected doctor who is not only open to being pursued romantically but was ready to start looking for a wife, albeit passively… And finding this all out a few days after… Well… It was its own jagged little pill… “First off… Just breathe… Relax for just a moment… You’re tense as a bowstring…” She said gently, the first thing she had said since he started talking, pretty sure her silence wasn’t exactly helping him feel any better. Especially since she was often very open with him and had not once outside of their first meeting, given him any sort of silence, and she knew right now… Her silence was probably almost painful to him. Still, she had to think about what to say, to sort everything out in her mind… Logic versus emotions, reactions versus reality, feelings versus fact… “Just because Cora passed… Didn’t, and doesn’t, mean you had to die with her… You’re still very alive, and like any other living being, you have needs too… Needs that you put away, to sit on a back burner while you buried yourself in work, refusing to see anything outside of your bare radius… Like a carriage horse with blinders on…” It might be a little cold, but it was also very honest, he had refused to see the world in any light other than the one he was comfortable with. That was his choice and a lot of people respected it, others as he had said, did not… They had still chased him, these mothers and grandmothers with lovely unmarried, virgin daughters with which to try and tempt him… They just didn’t know that he was locked in his own winter… Thrusting spring flowers at him wasn’t going to make him change his season… Even she couldn’t make him do that, she might gently touch him, she might find words to try and turn him back to the world… But she couldn’t, and wouldn’t force him… His situation right now? Was of his own violation. “People expect you to act like a human here… Over there your family just wants to see you happy… You’re stuck in both worlds where people expect you to do these things that… You weren’t ready for.” She said as she continued to smooth her hand up and down his back in those soothing, sweet motions that would eventually have him loosening up, to relaxing… “I think… I know you well enough that you would never put yourself up for auction like this… If you find someone.. It’s for love and laughter… Because somewhere inside that person is a spark you know… A kindred spirit and you won’t settle for less… It’s why, personally, I think you’ve kept yourself in winter for so long… You weren’t ready… You didn’t want to see a spring…” He was starting to thaw though…In small stages, like snow melting under a gentle spring sun, chunks were starting to break off… Slowly, these sweet tender shoots of green were starting to come in, and for that alone… If nothing else… She was grateful for… Even if those shoots never flowered for her… Even if they went into bloom for someone else… So long as he was finally allowing himself a spring again then that… That was enough for her… “If I wasn’t your student… I’d openly invite your courtship… I wouldn’t be offering to back away, or to hide, because deep down… I don’t want to.” She confessed softly, her fingers curling into his jacket for a moment, her throat closing up for just a second.. A sharp sting… “I know your standing… How you feel about your position as my teacher, your strong morals, your stance on it all… I also know that… With what had happened before, I know it’s a bitter pill in its own way, and I… I think I must scare you sometimes… Because so much of it is so familiar… Like the Once Upon a Time line in every fairy tale…” It made her hate it in so many ways… And deep down it caused this little crack inside her, where her desire to become a doctor and her desire for him fractured, slowly spreading apart like ice floats on the sea… Was it so wrong to want her cake and eat it too? She had been so good in her life, she hadn’t asked for anything, she took all life offered her and never shoved it back, never cried or raged… She helped others, she defended the small and the weak, she stood up to bullies and wasn’t afraid to bend if she had to… To be corrected if she was wrong… All she wanted for all of this… Was him. Just him. Even if he was poor, completely penniless and without a job, she would still want him… “It’s because I don’t want to… Because I refuse to hurt you Jacob that I am offering to stand in the back… Not because I don’t want you… But because I want you badly enough to step aside and cheer you on from the shadows… I’m new in all of this… Every emotion and sensation, every exploration is a revelation to me, and I can make a lot of mistakes but you… You’re the one thing I won’t allow myself to fail in… Even if…” Even if it meant losing him forever.



She flushed softly when he complimented her and shook her head, it was strange because she’d never actually been complimented like the way he did her, the blush on her cheeks that only highlighted the delicate frosting of freckles on her cheeks and nose. She let out a slow breath, her hands in her lap, clutching her purse… Trying to ground herself somehow but feeling like she was falling terribly short… “I know who and what I am… I know my potential it’s not that it’s just… I’m not the type of person to sing my own accolades… Besides, are you really one to talk, given all your own talents and gifts? You’re no different than I am Jacob, we’re both gifted but we don’t show it off, it’s not who we are… You see me…I see you… That’s enough for me.” She was simple like that, it might seem odd but it was who she was, she literally had no desire for any sort of attention in regards to anything she did… She just wanted to… Exist… Or at least she had… But meeting him had changed a lot of things… Shifted her parameters and her limits, her desires were no longer quite the same as they had once been, and she wasn’t sure she was ready for it… At least… Not alone. Still, there was enough sadness in this place alone to fill an ocean, and she made a conscious and dedicated effort to change that. She brought out the little map and offered to make a game of it, something to make them laugh and smile… Today was more than sad enough on its own. His response to the haunted locations had her brow rising just a little bit there, her lips flicking up in a smile, tilting her head a touch as she asked. “Jacob… Are you afraid of haunted places? Things that might go bump? So specters give you the spooks?” Oh yes, she couldn’t help it, she was teasing him a bit there. A tease which he returned in full in regards to her mischief streak and oh yes, he had her laughing and shaking her head, falling in love all over again with those dimples as they flashed. God, he really, truly was perfect… “I would love to deny it but I won’t lie to you, so you know I have to admit in full colors I am indeed, a very mischievous young lady!” She said with a wink and no shame. Yes, she was a bit mischievous, and she could even get cranky if she got too hot! But overall she was at least a harmless sort of mischievous. She called him out on his return comment though, that he had no idea what she was talking about, and oh yes… She was going to get him indeed! “Liar… You couldn’t have taken my shoulder that night on the landing and kissed me the way you did if you weren’t!” She said, laughing as she teased him there, giving him a wink as she teased and soothed her fingers over the light bite mark she would have left on his finger. They were curled up together in the carriage as she told him about her little match making with Kit and the Guard, sighing and melting into his side when he kissed her temple, his arm around her waist… He was her dream… Her only dream… Honestly she had so much faith in him, genuine and true, she knew he would do amazing… It was impossible for him not to, he shone too bright, he was too smart to ever fail. The library was a grand and beautiful surprise, one she gladly dove into, though she wasn’t blind to him picking up the entrance fee… She still wasn’t sure how to feel about that, yes he had more money than her, Good God oodles more than her… He could buy her several times over and STILL have millions left… Heck he could probably buy an entire nation… But even so? She had been fighting from a young age to be independent and self-reliant and this… Felt a little odd… Almost… Moochy… The thoughts lasted for only a few minutes before he went and teased her about sneaking in, and sure enough she took the bait, taking only a short while to point out where and how she could. She heard the muted laughter, the way he was looking at her, asking if she would do it. She tilted her nose up in the air then and gave a little toss of her head, turning to walk away from him with that sensual sway of her hips she didn’t know she had, so damn apparent now that she was in clothing that fit her. “ A lady never tells…” She said over her shoulder, catching that wink and smiling, the two of them going along the books… He pointed out the one that had portraits of all of them as youths with their corresponding teachers, and oh yes she picked out Dr. Faelon, his jawline was like a signature in and of itself! And that HAIR! Oh she would love to tease him just a little one of these days about it! “No wonder he managed to land Cynthia, gorgeous as she is, I’m sure those two were a couple of fireworks.” She said with a warm, muted laugh in respect to the space, shaking her head. The page after though oh yes! She caught the one of him quite a bit younger and she loved it, she would have looked and more before he snapped it closed and put it up out of her reach, huffing and stating he was cute in that picture. His saucy reply though… She bit her lip hard in that moment as she looked at him, her fingers curled in, and in that moment… She reached out and gabbed him, ducking into a hidden nook of the many shelves lining the halls, leather clad gloves grabbing his tie and pulling him down for a sweet hot kiss that was over far too soon… Leaving his head spinning and his heart racing. “The only shame is that you don’t see how breathtaking you are, Jacob Anikin…” She breathed against his lips, and oh, how she so desperately wanted to kiss him again… To drag him down to the carpeted floor and have him touch her… Touch him… To struggle to remain silent as he made her cum among the tomes of knowledge… She had to shake herself free of that and slip away, leaving him to right his tie as she disappeared around the corner, just out of his sight and his range… Her heart thudding as she pulled the veil down to hide her blushing cheeks, her soft little pants, the way her nipples were hard under her blazer… She had to grab out the first book she could and read several pages before she had calmed back down enough to meet up with him again at the books for sake area… They talked over which book would be best for Kit and while one seemed the obvious winner at first, given their talk over it, they came to the conclusion that the Papyrus was a far better choice. “Mmm I just think if you are going to spend money it’s best to do it on things that really matter…” She said as she began to work that book out, huffing just a bit before she finally got it out, having worked up a little bit of a sweat in so much clothing. “Mmhmm but then you might snatch it up and I’d have to fight you over it and it would just be an ungodly mess…” She said, teasing him with a wink before handing it to him, gladly accepting the gift as it was something she would get years and years of use out of. She ended biting her lip and shook her head, looking up at him under her lashes, full tilt big doe eyes… “Well I would think so…” She said, coming up to stand on her toes an whisper in his ear, pitched so only he could hear her words. “After all, you did seem quite fond of my stockings and garters in the carriage, as I recall… Your jaw dropped a little…” She said, stepping away a moment later, far too innocent… Just leaving him there hanging… A few moments later she snuck in her own book for him and slipped it into her purse, thinking it would make a perfect little booster, a way to change the path of his mind when his thoughts went a little down hill… Back in the carriage it was his turn to pick, laughing more than once as he went off the page, landing on the teashop before he sent the directions to the driver. These small moments of just gentle touching were dreams for her, the small kisses and sweet touches… Being in his arms with her head on his shoulder, honestly, it was so much more than she ever dreamed of… A sweet, gentle perfection…



The ride was over far too soon for her liking though, yet inside the tea shop she was admittedly impressed, charmed and even a little besotted. It had all the sort of fairy like dream appeal that a little girl could hope for, with enough structure and clean lines to draw a mans eyes to the strength. An ideal mix for both sexes, she lead them to the back where it was a little more private, that perfect little Arabian night alcove where she took her shoes off and claimed a big pillow there against the wall. “The owner of the first place I stopped at last night made the map and said it was one of the places you just had to see, and honestly I am so glad your finger landed on it, I don’t think I would have come here alone. I’d be too fascinated in the more mysterious places. It is so beautiful though I admit, it reminds me of the book Arabian Nights, I remember the pictures on the pages…” She recalled her little book then and handed it to him, and while it was simple and far from grand, it was certainly meant from the heart. Something to just… Ease the fears back enough for him to realize he was more than capable of doing everything and anything he wanted to do. She curled her fingers in with his, running her thumb over the side of his hands for a moment, smiling up at him. “You’re just a bird who’s wing was broken for a little while… You’re stretching now… Afraid to fall… But I know you’ll soar… But I can’t tell you that all the time, so I will let the book speak for me, to remind you that no matter what you’re doing? I will always and forever think you will triumph and light the world up all on your own, you just have that kind of spark Jacob, you’re meant to shine…” She said honestly and from the heart. When it came time to order her first was the moon tea that was easily mistaken as a diet tea, ordering the hibiscus dream and little sandwiches for herself, her head tilting when Jacob ordered a sort of short bread… Something she’d never heard of… She let him relax and made no move to shift him about when the waiter came back, and yes, she downed that tea fast. It made her hot and wasn’t exactly the most delicious tea, it was akin to drinking spinach water and nettles, with a dash of something incredibly acerbic. She ended up fanning herself shortly after downing the cup, unwilling to let him see the bruises on her arms, she knew he’d want to make things right and honestly? She deserved the bruises. She attacked first and she got what she started, she wasn’t about to cry foul because he had ground her bones together, hell she had made him eat lye soap. Fair’s fair. When he spoke though oh Jesus H Christ! She blushed hotly and had to turn her head away to the side for just a moment, shaking her head quickly, trying to cool her cheeks. “I don’t see how it’s not fair… One of us will have to be doing something, right? You or I, one or the other, we’re taking precautions… Besides, I told you last night, I was able to take care of myself… I won’t have you worried about…” She said, trying to keep it as vague as he was, God knew they weren’t exactly alone… All they needed was for someone to overhear the best catch in history was talking about contraceptives with her… At his next question though she slowly dropped her menu, tuning to look at him because this sort of a conversation was deadly serious for one, and two? He brought it up and that meant he had to be curious for more than just the reason they were lovers… Ish… Right? Or was she reading too much into it? Either way she gave it all the due respect it, and he, deserved. “I don’t think age matters or makes a woman a better mother in any way… It’s not so much about… Planning or waiting for the time to be right… It’s about… How you feel…” Plenty of women made terrible mothers, God knew she had met more than a few, had them unloaded at the orphanage for her to help raise. She had also seen women wait and wait for everything to line up, only for them to have waited too long, hence why so many people came to the orphanage to adopt. “Personally, I love children, all ages and sizes… It was one of the things I adored the most at the orphanage, I sort of got to be a big sister and mother rolled into one, and I really loved it…” She said honestly, she really did love being there, helping children grow and change… She adored kids, she knew instinctively how to help them, despite being an orphan herself she had a very strong mother gene in her… “I would love to have a family honestly… Small or big it doesn’t matter I just… Never thought I’d have one. I never thought I’d fall in love or ever have… Relations… I just thought I’d live my life… Die the same way I was born, not to be sad or melodramatic about it, I just never saw a change… I probably would have adopted a child or two if I managed to become stable enough to provide a good home and life for them.” Of course that had all shifted now, changed a great deal, but even so? It didn’t mean she allowed herself to dream that far ahead. She felt lucky just to have him in this moment, she wouldn’t dare to let herself think he might want to marry her, to settle down… Have children of their own… It was a dream too sweet to dare and she knew if she even tried, just for a moment, her heart would shatter and she’d never recover from it. She guided the topic away, sipping on her tea that was honestly amazing, and the little sandwiches were really delicious! She brought up her fears, her concerns, gently rubbing her arms in thought. “He warned me today I was on thin ice… Then the first day in the hall he pretty much said if he didn’t like me, he’d fail me, and that’s… That is what I’m worried about… It’s bad enough he tried… But then to threaten me with failing me just because I won’t fawn over him… It’s the only reason I want to go on an accelerated program…”



She worried she was coming across as too much of a snotty miss know it all, after all how dare she, just a striper come student doctor think she could make more progress than others in less time? TO her she sounded so damn egotistical and she hated it, but at the same time if she didn’t ask, she would never know. His answer, while fair, did cause her to drop her shoulders a touch. She was afraid of as much, the course she was on was already incredibly fast, packing eight years into one… It was a lot to ask of anyone… She paused as he continued though, and her heart dropped and lurched sickeningly in her chest, made her feel ill… Stay here? In Narius? It was a beautiful city yes, oh she loved it here she did, and she thought Dr. Barathon would be an amazing teacher… After all he had taught Jacob and she idolized him… But… It meant being away from him… Could she actually handle that? She wasn’t sure she could… But…If she did… Would that mean he might feel a bit easier about courting her? Oh what a tangle it all was… “Of course… But there isn’t a big rush on it right now… I’m just worried about being sabotaged… If you and Dr. Faelon will be able to keep that from happening though, the rushed course might not be needed…” She said, eyeing his sweet treat and when he wasn’t looking she would sneak in and put one of her sandwiches on his plate and snag a bit of the bread, looking completely innocent as she tried to hide the fact she was eating it… She was sneakily chewing away when he asked her about the money situation and she actually ended up choking as she inhaled a bit of the cake, turning pink as she reached for her tea and began to drink it down, removing the offending cake from her windpipe as she coughed into a napkin. Ok, NOT what the hell she was expecting for him to say! She couldn’t say anything at all for some long moments, honestly her cheeks were flaming, all the way down her neck and her chest to the tips of her ears. How. The. Freaking. HELL was she supposed to answer THAT?! She ended up just sinking into the cushion for a moment before he reached out to gently touch her cheek and honestly she was so torn… Damn torn… She had her pride, she worked hard for every penny she had, and had never once borrowed or had anyone give her so much as a touch of loose change in her life. Yet here he was, offering her money, financial support because he knew she was out… How could he not? It was a bit too obvious for him to miss… She remained silent, thinking it over, trying to settle on something… There had to be something… “You know… When a man offers to help a lady in his company with her… Situation… It often is seen as a start for courtship… A sign he is fiscally able to support her and offer her a comfortable life…” Let him fumble with that one for a bit, honestly, he had dropped a virtual short fused lit stick of TNT in her lap… A part of her would take the help gladly, not because she would honestly need the money, but because it would be nice to know she had that little gentle lining… Another part of her was dead set against it because she didn’t want him for his money and never would. Hell she would work two, three jobs if she had to if he was hers and he couldn’t work, she’d take care of them both… She finished off the finger foods and her tea, seeing him pay the bill and she didn’t object, after all if he WAS trying to show himself as a good husband? God knew she wouldn’t stop him… She felt him shift into her cushion, causing her to slide into his side more than a bit, trying to gather her thoughts up a bit… The way he had slid the shoulders of her jacket down left her in nothing more than a skin tight silk chemise that did nothing to hide the little red bits of velvet showing, the straps half sliding off at his movements beside her… Her heart hammering so hard in her chest… When he kissed her he left her wanting so much more, her breath shot as she blushed, looking up at him as her fingers curled into the ends of his vest… Looking up into his eyes, seeing the soft plea in it, like a whispered need he couldn’t put to words… “Yes… But on one condition…” She said, reaching down to slide her hands along his pants, gently removing her hands from his body… Though God knew it was hard as fuck! “Promise me a dance…” She asked softly before she would rise, snagging the last bit of his cake with a smile, making sure her jacket and the rest of her was perfectly in place… Heading out to the carriage… “I need to get some study time in before we go out to dinner, and I know you wanted to do some prep work, so I guess… Once we get to the Inn we’ll be separated for a bit.” She said with a nod, once more curling into his side, loving these secret moments… Like bits of dark chocolate snuck away when fasting… “If you ever for a moment doubt yourself… Play the little gift and read the book… And know in every page and note I’m there… Cheering you on…”



She said, and all too soon, they would be back at the Inn. Kit would have been there in her room, a love bite on her neck and a very pretty blush, which only made her laugh as she came in and closed the door behind her. She would settle in beside her and poke the hickies a bit with a grin before handing her the new book. “Might want to take care of those before tomorrow kitty kat… Some ice over it will ease them up a lot and I have some balm that will do the rest… The book is from Dr. Anikin for you as a gift for working so hard, and he hopes that it’s knowledge helps you further yourself and keep up the good work, he really is proud of you. We all are. I’m going to strip out of these clothes and get a couple of hours study in before dinner…” She said, pausing a moment as she was undressing, folding the suit up with her other dirty clothes… Sliding on a simple robe before she picked out her dress for the night… One that she hoped would just… Oh she didn’t really know just… Hoping he would… Just… Maybe stop seeing her as his student for a night… She set it out on the peg before settling back in, her newest book in her lap, she had already completely devoured the anatomical one he had given her and had her own copied and detailed journal of it in case she needed a refresher. “Keep a secret Kit?” She asked before rolling over onto her side, the book against her chest, watching the light slowly start to change outside. “Dr. Anakin asked me on a date tonight… It’s my first time… Will you cover for me if anyone asks? We’re… Just with everything going on and the flyers and the fact he’s my teacher… A lot of it can go wrong… I know I’m asking a lot but I just… I guess I want my own little chance at a fairytale…” She would ask, and either way Kit decided she would understand, and after that would honestly devote a good chunk to study… Only getting up about an hour and a half before it was time… “I hope he’s left… I don’t want him to see me…” She said with a laugh before she began to do her hair up, borrowing a few of Kit’s bobby pins and even cosmetics as she accepted the help to get ready, God knew she needed it! She was almost shaking, Kit was being adorable though, teasing her about it and not to worry… She settled once she had her face done to dress then, and realized just a few moments in, like kit… She wouldn’t wear a single thing under it… “Really Anouk?!” She said on a hiss and groaned, slipping into the dress behind the screen of course, keeping her tattoo as private now as she always had… Leaving her clothes to hang over the screen before pulling the dress on… Adjusting it here and there… fidgeting big time… Putting on the earing and bracelet that came with it… The red satin heels… Coming out behind the screen only to see Kit’s jaw drop and hard, her own cheeks flushing as she sort of sunk into herself, picking a the dress… “Too much?” She would ask but Kit just shook her head hard in stunned silence before she would dart out the door… Making sure Dr. Anikin was gone and she could make her way out… She thanked Kit for everything with a hug and began to make her way out, though she had never felt so self-conscious in her life, it seemed like everyone was staring… Even one of the bell boys ended up dropping luggage on his foot and didn’t even stop to pick it up… She swore she had never felt so naked and vulnerable in her life but she kept her shoulders back… Head held high… Like she was an empress as she made her way out to the carriage the clerk had called for her, the directions to the Coriander Flower… That she had to give twice because the driver was too busy staring in shocked silence. He jumped down to assist her up like she was some sort of nobility, stepping back and getting back into the seat, the curtain up as they drove… Watching people stop and stare when ever there was a bit of traffic or back up… Pretending not to see the looks and pointed fingers… When they arrived and she was helped down, it was sort of… Insane… She was instantly noted and had people stopping, whispering behind hands and fans, eyes raking her from head to toe… She knew she didn’t belong… Knew it very well! Hell she couldn’t afford anything in this place! Yet… There it was… She walked up the steps as calmly as she could, stating she was here to meet with Dr. Anikin, and it was like the golden world… She was ushered in, told that she would be seated shortly, that the good Dr. Anikin hadn’t arrived yet… She nodded her head gently and would move to the bar area then, ordering a small absinthe as she waited, knowing wine was NOT going to take this edge off! She had been sitting alone at an empty bar at first, but within a few minutes she had several stags around her, those who came for flash and bang and to be seen… It was almost funny how many men actually burnt each others hands trying to light her sugar cube as if she couldn’t do it herself… She couldn’t help the soft chuckle at their antics, catching their attention even more so with the sweet sultry sound, and in all honestly… She was getting really rather uncomfortable… She just wanted a drink in peace… She let the cube melt down before it finished and she took the spoon and gently stirred it into the cup, taking a slow, careful sip of it… Not wanting to drink too much but desperately wanting the dulling of her jumping nerves…



After all, it wasn’t like she could say she was here for Dr. Anikin only and to sod off, that would put them in a sort of… Situation she told him flat out she was trying to avoid for them both. The last thing she wanted? Was to cause him a complication but… Oh… At the same time if she was able to be linked to him… How much easier would it be for them? Or… How much harder? She was rolling these thoughts around her head when she felt someone’s hand dare to drift over her bare lower back and she snapped, sliding from the seat and leaving the glass there with barely any drunk out of it, refusing to let anyone touch her but Jacob… She was NOT ok with that! She left the bar and just began to mingle, sort of, idle chatter here and there when someone dragged her into a conversation… Who she was… Didn’t they see her at the funeral?... Things of that nature and while she wished she could have avoided it, she HAD been the one to come early, unaware that just ten minutes difference would end up leaving her in quite the quagmire… She had just been so nervous she couldn’t wait… But she was regretting it now…

---

Dress, Hair, Makeup and Jewelry[/i]

[Deleted]

...they had settled there upon the stone bench.. the seat off to the side there in the thick lush gardens.. the day seemed to be motoring along.. going a lot quicker than he would have ever expected it too..and the fact that the conference was the very next day.. well it was spiking his anxiety...at least a little..the two of them spoke.. she offered him the cigarette she had made.. giving him an option instead of going completely cold turkey.. it wasn't that he smoked a lot.. but he did.. every so often.. it was something he did with both his Fathers.. just calmed the nerves.. especially when they were a little jagged.. she had shown him the pin and he'd gone into a little detail about the goddess he followed so closely.. just bits and pieces of information.. though far from scratching the surface of what could be told.. he chuckled a little and nodded when she spoke on there being a wold for her to learn.. and that all of this was just the stuff from inside his head.. -.. mm.. I know.. but.. we all start somewhere yes?.. it doesn't matter when it is.. as long as we start.. we shouldn't ever stop learning.. and the fact you have been more or less sheltered from this side of you.. for so long.. just makes me all the more eager to let you see it.. to help you to understand it.. to understand what it is you are missing out on.. it might not be your cup of tea.. -he shrugged his shoulders a little.. exhaling a thin line of smoke- and thats perfectly okay too.. but there's really only one way to find out.. -his head tilted a little when she spoke on how someone used to visit the orphanage.. talking about Arvandor and how her going back was wrong.. his brows furrowed..-.. peculiar behaviour indeed.. I wonder what that was all about.. -he rubbed his chin a little.. curious indeed.. sure not everyone saw Arvandor as he did.. especially those that followed the chaos gods and goddesses..-..

I know a little about the gods here on the surface.. enough mostly through those I have helped out in the hospital.. those on their death beds.. -he nodded a little.. drawing once more from the cigarette-.. I have attended a church.. on a few occasions.. to see what it was all about.. I remember.. -the corners of his lips curled as a smile was beginning to develop- There was an elderly woman.. her name was Ivy.. she would have been.. -he paused.. thoughtfully-.. nearly 95 years old.. I was her primary care giver.. It was during my final year of studies.. I wasn't yet a certified Doctor.. up here.. but well on my way..she managed to trick me with her gift of the gab.. to get me to go to church with her.. before I knew it.. I had agreed to go.. and there was a time and a date.. and she told me what I simply had to wear.. and how I had to bring her flowers.. -he was clearly amused.. he chuckled an scratched at his cheek-.. it was an intriguing Sunday morning let me tell you.. Good for a laugh.. she was a wonderful woman.. I have an inkling she did it to get under the skin of the other ladies in the church.. -he laughed-.. mmm.. so yes I have seen a bit of the religion here.. you probably know more than I do however.. from an outsiders point of view.. it seems very.. strict.. very.. rigid.. at least I guess in comparison to what I follow.. but you'l see.. when the time is right..

-he nodded.. offering to teach her about the gods.. the goddesses.. he knew enough to give her glimpses of each of them.. though the majority of his knowledge was on Hanali.. naturally..she offered for the pair of them to settle on the roof tops.. to talk beneath the stars.. -.. I like the sound of that.. We will do just that.. as for finding out where you belong.. well I think we all feel like that sometimes.. afterall.. even surrounded by family.. by friends.. we can be disconnected.. -he finished the cigarette there.. butting it out with his boot heel-.. sometimes its more.. someone.. and not somewhere.. where we feel at home.. -he glanced across to her there a moment.. they spoke on the festivals.. and how she wasn't really comfortable with the lust dust.. he admitted he hadn't experienced it himself yet.. nodding his head when it was brought up that they should go together- ..I will be free yes.. you are right.. I wont be working this one if I take you with me.. if I go alone then yes I will work it as I have done so in the past.. I might still help out during the day.. might drag you along with me if you're interested.. it can be a lot of fun.. but when the evening falls.. and things ..heat up.. for lack of a better term.. yes.. I will be right there beside you.. inhaling all that glittering dust..Ill keep you safe. you'l see..-he nodded.. he had seen the effects it had on people.. from the young adults.. to those more seasoned revellers.. some just lost complete control.. giving in to their carnal desires.. right there and then.. there was more than one occasion where Paramours would have to help couples find a more.. private position.. it didn't have to be behind closed doors.. but at least off the main walkways..

he had explained that Anouk would help her with her clothing.. it was something the pretty pixie did extremely well. -.. She's certainly extremely talented.. -he smiled and nodded-.. she goes every year.. and helps out where she can.. Im thankful I met her.. I doubt my life would be the same if she werent in it in some capacity.. She'l sort you out.. Im sure of it.. if you've still got her card you can call upon her.. anytime.. -she handed him the flyer and everything went south.. he struggled with his explanations on the writing on the paper.. admitting they were truth.. he was wealthy.. and he was in some respects looking for a wife.. just perhaps not as actively as the paper suggested.. her touches were a gods send.. they were doing extremely well to calm him.. to keep him grounded so to speak.. he took a breath when she told him to relax.. to breathe a moment.. that he was tense..

he exhaled and nodded.. his hands rose as he rubbed against the sides of his neck.. he listened as she spoke about Cora.. and how he didn't have to die with her.. that he was still so very alive.. that he had needs.. and that currently he may as well have been a horse with blinders on.. he chuckled weakly.. -.. no you're right.. I know.. I guess I'd just had my head in the sand for such a long time.. I was coasting.. and expected it to just continue to go that way.. very little was able to turn my head.. -until her of course.. and she practically made his head spin.. enough to need an old priest and a new one.. she spoke on how she saw him then and he looked to her.. curious as to her thoughts.. as to how he was in her eyes.. he offered her a smile-.. I think you know me better than anyone Rose.. and thats really saying something considering we haven't really been around each other for a grand length of time.. again you are right.. I am not interested in filling the gap.. for the titles sake.. I dont want to be married.. to be married.. it's not something I am interested in.. it would have to be because i loved the person.. on a level that I found myself unable to see a life without them.. a connection that just worked.. I'm no fool.. I know nothing in this world and beyond is perfect.. but.. if im going to take that leap.. -he huffed a little-.. Again.. it's going to be for the right reasons..

-he sunk back a little on the chair there as she professed her want to court him.. if the situation was different of course and she was able to.. he rubbed his lips together..-.. it's hard.. it's a situation I honestly.. -his hand rested above his heart-.. did not think I would find myself in.. so it's kind of thrown me.. taken me a bit by surprise..and I think.. -he glanced out over the gardens then.. watching as the leaves picked up in small circular gusts of wind.. -.. if you weren't my student I would..-he slowed his words just a little-.. ask for your courtship..-his cheeks coloured a little there ..rolling his neck as he glanced upward.. drawing in a breath-.. I am not going to deny it.. I do like you Rose.. I find you intriguing.. and incredibly beautiful inside and out.. the situation at hand is a difficult one.. I can't as your senior actively .. for lack of a better term.. date you.. as it could be seen as me taking advantage of my position of power.. my seniority.. It could be seen as me playing favourites.. and your marks and education would then be brought up to question.. and Id never.. Ever want that.. it's a future that Ellen and Luna.. should they go any further than they are now.. are going to have to face.. it's harsh.. the scrutiny.. You and I both know.. I wouldn't play favourites.. and you wouldn't allow me to anyway.. you take your future career far to seriously for something like that.. -he rubbed his thighs a little-.. it's just hard.. if you understand.. I feel a bit stuck.. and at times horrible.. -he frowned a little.. glancing to her-.. I see you pour your heart out to me.. I see you give your all.. I honestly have questioned wether or not I deserve it.. on more than one occasion.. knowing that.. right now.. in this moment.. and for the duration of your studies.. I can't give you what you deserve.. not yet anyway..

-he huffed..though it was more birthed from his own vulnerabilities and frustration than anything else.. he did like her.. a lot.. she had to have known this.. it was just a really.. really sticky situation that could have consequences for both parties.. at least whilst she was still climbing the ladder.. a silence fell between them.. the gardens picking up the slack around them.. birds.. the wind.. trees and those wandering leaves sounding out..he nodded his head when she spoke on how similar they were to one another.. that neither was the kind of person to toot their own horn.. and she was right.. he didn't see the need to go on about how many titles he had.. how many letters trailed his name on paper.. how wealthy he was especially with him being so young.. because it meant nothing.. not really.. he was just Jacob.. she changed the subject then.. bringing up the map.. and then the haunted house.. ghosts and poltergeists.. he clucked his tongue when she asked if he was afraid-.. I'm just not going to comment on that one ..-he glanced toward her. laughing a little.. the two of them sharing comments on just how mischievous they both were.. seemingly as bad as one another before they would find themselves back in the carriage.. curled up close.. the library was their first stop.. where they shared a love of literature and education.. he baited her when it came to breaking in and she took it beautifully.. she was incredibly cheeky.. and he adored it.. how could he not.. he couldn't remember smiling quite this much in a very.. very long time.. he just felt so light around her.. like all the problems could just fuck off for the time being.. he showed her the medical journal.. the one he knew Faelon and himself were in.. when they were quite a bit younger and a lot more wet behind the ears..

though he snapped it shut once she caught a glimpse of him all baby faced.. what he did not expect was her grabbing him so suddenly.. his eyes widened a touch and he moved swiftly to that little nook.. that darkened corner there.. those small leather clad fingers gripping his charcoal coloured tie.. puling him down and before he knew it.. lips met.. a kiss sweet and hot ensued.. his heart just about burst..he could only return it for but a moment before she released him.. and she moved.. he was left standing there blinking.. his breath coming out in shattered sounds.. before she breathed those words against his lips.. oh his cheeks coloured .. there was no way he could avoid that-.. wow.. -he murmured.. he pressed back against the cold hard bookcase then.. his hand rising to slide back through his hair.. straightening his suit jacket..clearing his throat.. oh that was..his poor heart was just throbbing .. begging to be freed of the confines of his chest..the two of them met up a short while after and though their attentions had turned to the books.. his thoughts were most definitely elsewhere.. making him seem a little.. distracted.. they decided on books for Kit.. she herself plucking a rather large book for him to purchase before the two of them would move to step out.. back into the carriage.. curled into on

e another.. their next destination the little arabian styled cafe.. the one filled with tiny hidden private booths and cushions.. incense and candles.. trinkets and coloured flags.. the two of them sinking down to sit comfortably.. she handed him the little book then.. curious he was indeed as to what it was before she told him of its purpose.. it was a pick-me-up so to speak.. filled with quotes and passages.. little things that when the time arose.. that he required that little bit of help and she was not around.. that he would be able to read it.. to take from those pages what he needed.. -.. You're incredibly good to me Rose.. Thank you.. this is perfect.. -he slid it down into the pocket of his suit jacket then.. making himself a gentle reminder that he would require it tomorrow for certain..the waiter came and left.. orders taken.. her first though.. the one that came early took him by surprise.. a little deduction though.. scents and its effect on her told him pretty much straight away what it was.. he spoke.. a little awkwardly on the subject.. letting her know that she didn't have to do this on her own.. that he would be more than willing to.. for lack of a better term.. pick up the short fall..he nodded a little at her response-.. I'm just saying.. I don't mind.. picking up the slack.. so to speak.. I dont want you unwell or uncomfortable.. -he turned glancing toward the waiter as he returned with their actual orders.. the cakes and breads.. he asked her on her thoughts about children then.. he was genuinly curious.. -.. no you are correct age means very little when it comes to being a good Mother.. though it can make all the difference when it comes to fertility itself.. as I am sure you know.. -he nodded.. turning his tea cup around then as he listened to her response.. about her love for children.. how she got to be the big sister at the orphanage.. her want for a family.. large or small.. -.. Its amazing how life works sometimes.. you think its going to go a certain way as it has done for a length of time up until then.. only for things to do a complete turn around.. things get shook up a lot sometimes.. sometimes good.. sometimes bad.. -he took a bite of the crumbling shortbread.. it tasted of sweet berries and lemon.. lavender and vanilla. -.. I want a family.. -he nodded.. rubbing his lips together as he placed another small bit of the cake back upon the saucer-.. Ive been around family my entire life.. might be a touch dysfunctional.. but.. I love them all the same.. I guess it would be an adjustment.. medicine and my goddess have been my life.. up until now.. Kace is a beautiful boy but i haven't really given him the chance he deserves.. Im thankful my family have taken him in.. he wont be short on love.. I know that for certain.. they have it in those houses.. ten fold.. but I look forward to the ups and downs.. the highs and the lows of family life.. I see it.. in the hospital.. in the cities.. I see it in my parents.. in my younger brothers and sisters.. the looks.. all of it.. I want that too.. someday..

-he nodded a little.. the topic changed to her wanting to switch up her learning.. wanting to accelerate it.. he told her the only way he knew it could be done.. her shifting.. her moving to Narius.. to live with Dr Barathon.. he didn't doubt her skill.. he knew she could be a doctor.. well within the year.. easily.. it concerned him when she spoke on Dr Rincavornon warning her.. enough that he placed his cup down there and he turned to face her properly.. -.. He cant fail you because he doesn't like you.. it doesn't work that way .. much to his dismay perhaps.. your skill will outshine his nonsense.. I can assure you of that.. If you really do want to accelerate your learning we will sort something out.. -he rubbed his hands together-.. Ill talk with Faelon.. we will organise some early testing.. between him and I to see just where you are up to.. and what still needs to be learnt..I guess.. -he paused.. a thoughtful expression crept its way across his features-.. my only concern will be.. your fear of childbirth.. thats going to be your hiccup.. but.. we will cross that bridge when we get to it..

-he caught sight of the sandwich on his plate here.. where a bit more of that shortbread of his was.. he offered an amused smile.. turning the plate toward her.. motioning for her to help herself.. he decided then to ask her about her financial situation.. his eyes widening when she started to choke on the biscuit.. he reached around to rub her back a little.. -.. Goodness Im sorry I didn't mean for you to choke like that.. -he blinked.. allowing the silence to fall between them then.. and he honestly figured he had rightfully fucked up with that question.. deciding he should have kept that to himself.. he should have just snuck it into her bag when she wasnt looking.. the awkwardness around them was sharp.. he tilted his head when she finally spoke though.. about how when a man offered to help a lady in his company that it was often seen as the start of a courtship.. that it was a sign tat he was able to support her.. offering her a comfortable life.. he cleared his throat.. his hands came down to rest upon his thighs there..-.. mm.. you are right.. it could be seen that way.. and often it is.. -he rested his elbow upon his knee there as he rubbed his chin a little-..let me change it around a little.. if it were the other way around.. -he glanced toward her.. -..how would you feel about it?.. the ability to help a friend out.. a very close friend.. a confidant.. someone you cared for.. someone you didn't want to see in an uncomfortable position.. ever.. would you offer?.. I'm not going to sit here and throw money at you Rose. I'm not that kind of person.. I dont expect anything in return.. I just want to help.. its entirely up to you if you want to accept.. no harm.. no foul.. i wont bring it up again.. Im sorry for making you feel uncomfortable..

-he turned.. waving over the waiter then as he handed him an envelope that would cover the costs of the meal there.. the pair of them lingering a little bit longer before he sat up a little and shifted over to her.. settling in closer.. nearly against the same cushion as she.. he felt her fall into him a touch..he mentioned the restaurant she had on her map.. asking her then.. if she would meet him that night there.. just the two of them.. before he guided her around with the touch of a skilled hand.. till their lips met in a very risky little kiss.. soft.. delicate.. before he pleaded with her to accept.. he felt her fingers curling into the fabric of his vest there.. their breath was hot as it curled amongst them both.. sweetly scented of cakes and tea.. eyes meeting.. hearts racing.. she accepted.. on one condition.. his brow rose just a little-.. anything.. -he'd whisper in response.. before she laid down her terms.. a dance.. he couldn't help the smile that developed there-.. deal.. -before she rose.. pulling herself away from him.. he blew out a bit of a breath there.. it had been..years since he had asked anyone out.. it played a bit on his nerves.. he slowly moved to stand..

placing his boots back on.. his jacket.. a few buttons fastened before they would be back within the carriage.. his arm snaking around her...drawing her into his side there.. the ride was short.. over in the blink of an eye..she spoke on getting some study in..-.. mm.. I need to go over my notes for tomorrow as well.. Ill leave you with the books for Kit though.. if you could pass those onto her.. -she offered her words of encouragement then.. to read the book.. and play the music box should he require that little bit of help.. he gave her a bit of a squeeze there.. before slipping out of the carriage.. -.. I will.. thankyou.. -whispering softly as he allowed her to move ahead of him.. along the path into the Inn proper.. he straightened his jacket before he would step inside..catching a glimpse of a woman with a notepad nearer the door there.. taking down a few notes.. he tipped his head to her.. she piped up quickly enquiring if she could ask him a few questions.. before he shook his head.. telling her he had little time.. before he disappeared inside.. the owners ushered away the reporter.. he made his way up to his room and closed the door behind him.. he had so very much to organise and yet.. all he could think about.. was the date..


Kit was seated at the desk in the bedroom when you came in.. she was wearing a beaming smile there.. and more than a couple love bites upon the sides of her neck and shoulders.. she couldn't help the giggle that spilled from between her lips when you mentioned the need to get rid of those..-.. mmhmm.. yes of course.. thank you Rose.. -she smiled.. taking the books from you when you offered.. she settled those books down upon the table there.. her cheeks a little redder than before when you mentioned everyone being so proud of her-. This is wonderful.. I hope your day went well?.. I mean.. well apart from.. -she meant apart from the funeral of course.. nodding when you said you were going to get changed and study before dinner.. -..

I had a lovely morning.. this city is just stunning really.. beautiful.. and he was a complete gentleman.. -she gushed.. clearly she was on cloud nine.. the two of them sunk into their books then.. the sounds of pages turning.. of pencils scribbling notes down upon paper and notebooks..a question popping up every so often that they could both muse on until the answer presented itself.. before you asked if she could keep a secret.. she sat up a little on her bed then.. -.. Of course Rose.. whats up?.. -she questioned.. placing her book down upon her thighs then as she turned to look upon you properly .. her mouth dropped open though when you said Jacob had asked you out on a date-.. No Way?! really?.. Wow!! -her hand lifted to her opened mouth then and her smile grew wider..-.. Aww that is So wonderful!.. Im so happy for you.. -she curled her knees in to her chest there.. -.. first time going on a date?.. -she tilted her head-.. really?.. first time ever?.. You're going to have such a wonderful time.. -she crossed her fingers over her heart then-.. I will cover for you of course.. no questions asked.. no one else needs to know.. none of their business.. -she nodded-. you're not asking for a lot at all.. Ill do my best to distract should you come up.. though really.. as far as I know.. you're knee deep in study up here.. ill even bring you up a plate at dinner.. -she winked at you.. her smile still large.. she was genuinely happy for you..

the ability to study from that moment was near impossible so that next hour and a half was a bit of silly time.. -.. mm.. Ill check before you go out.. -she nodded-.. I can use the cover of thanking him for the books.. here Ill get some things.. to help.. -she closed her book.. slipping down from the bed as she pulled out her little makeup kit.. it held the bobby pins.. a few cosmetics.. and even a couple of different perfumes for you to choose from should you feel that way inclined.. the two of them having a right great time getting you all dolled up..-.. you need to relax.. your shaking like a leaf! -she grinned.. laughing a little as she closed up her little bag.. letting you go slip into that dress.. before you came out and her jaw did just about hit the floor-.. WOW.. Oh my god Rose.. that is.. -her hands held her cheeks then-.. You are ravishing.. Wow!.. No no no.. not to much at all.. Oh he is going to just melt.. wait here ill go check.. -she winked.. before she slipped out.. drawing the door closed.. she was gone for about 10 minutes.. before she returned swiftly.. -.. he's not here.. he's gone to the lecture hall to drop off a few things.. -she motioned between you and her-.. that we are helping him with later apparently.. -she laughed and nodded-.. Much much later.. -she winked-Go.. and have a beautiful time.. I want to like.. hug you so tight but I dont want to wrinkle you!.. -she opened the door then for you.. watching as you slipped out.. only for herself to fall down onto the bed soon after.. just smiling..


He had kept himself incredibly busy in those hours between leaving her.. and arriving at the venue.. he had dropped off the boxes filled with pens and pencils.. paperwork, books and notepads.. making sure the seating was all in the right order.. that the exits were marked.. the lectern was in place.. and the screens were in working order.. projectors were a wonderful thing.. never perfect.. but if needs be he'd use a little.. magic to keep it running as smoothly as he could.. time was slowly getting away on him.. he wasn't going to risk going back to the Inn though to get changed.. he stopped by Dr Barathon's home.. the two having a bit of a chat.. going over notes before he would use one of the spare rooms to slip into something a bit more fitting for the venue he would be attending.. Dr Barathon had a bit of a chuckle when he saw him.. though no words were exchanged on the subject.. just a pat to the shoulder before he was on his way out the door..

a carriage called.. this would be some 25 minutes after she had already arrived .. he didn't realise he had left her there for quite that long on his own.. he'd stepped out of the carriage there.. drawing his suit jacket back into place.. fastening the button.. a few fingers back through his hair.. the very same woman was waiting outside.. notepad in hand.. she fired questions at him.. asking if he was there with someone.. how was his stay so far.. would he consider moving back to Narius.. before she mentioned the beach and a mysterious woman.. though by this stage he was already half way in the door.. so he missed most of it.. that and a few of the bell boys had ushered the reporter away.. bad business afterall to be accosting paying customers in the entrance hall..

he straightened his cuffs.. enquiring as to wether or not a certain young lady had arrived.. only to be told she had indeed and she'd been waiting in the bar.. well didn't he feel like a right heel in those moments.. his shoulders sunk a little.. the concierge was welcoming..motioning in the direction of the bar as he moved rather swiftly toward it.. he came to a slow stop though.. when he glimpsed that red flash in the distance.. from across the opened hall.. his breath caught in the back of his throat ..she was turned away from him but he knew it was her.. those beautiful golden curls.. spilling just perfectly down her back.. the dress .. practically painted on..accentuating every single curve she had.. and he knew those curves very.. very well.. he reached up.. tugging lightly upon the collar of his shirt.. he couldn't call out to her.. though she'd spot him easily if she turned.. he was in an almost off white.. a light grey dress suit.. different from those that dotted around him.. so many in darks.. in black and navy.. the collar was up.. resting upon each side of his neck.. it fit him perfectly.. tailored for his shape..

there were quite a few people in that entrance hall.. those waiting for a table to be freed.. a few more waiting on their partners.. wives and husbands.. all wealthy.. all of high status.. no one else could get through those doors.. just those who could afford it.. a few had spoken to him.. though his attention was locked upon her.. entirely fused.. he was captivated.. he would wait until her eyes lifted.. before he would bow to her.. and then offer his arm..if he was going to hell.. may as well head that way with a smile.. plus they hadn't really done anything yet.. and he figured the people in here.. whilst they might gossip amongst themselves.. would never talk outside of this building.. but boy howdy if walls could talk.. he would watch her approach.. the way the fabric clung to her legs.. to her hips.. her thighs.. when she was within ear shot he would lean in a little.. -.. Wow.. -whispered for her ears only.. before he would allow her to take his arm.. he'd approach the concierge once more.. the gentleman was more than happy to close his books then.. ushering for them to follow as the worker lead them through the large open hall.. such lavish decorations.. golds and silver.. pearls and diamond.. everything glittered.. shone and shimmered.. it was rich.. even for the wealthiest of tastes.. there were women dressed in furs and jewels talking over small glasses of sherry and cake..older gentleman with top hats laughing quietly about fishing and sport over the soft cloud of cigars.. young well to do couples.. hands held across the table.. staring into each others eyes....it was busy.. and yet not crowded..

there was a table in the back.. in the corner.. it was private.. just for two.. but behind it was two large crystal balcony doors.. they opened out to a table with chairs.. and a stunning view of the ocean..he'd chosen this table on purpose.. it gave him the best of both worlds depending on the weather.. if it was cool he'd remain inside.. if it was warm and he needed some air.. he'd sit out.. his name was etched upon a small golden plaque upon the table itself.. he'd purchased it.. it was his own.. he released her hand.. moving around to pull out her chair for her..waiting for her to sit.. before he would release the button upon his jacket.. and he would settle in just across from her..-.. I am speechless.. -he paused.. motioning toward her with his hand-.. Look at you.. you are.. Stunning.. -he offered her a smile there.. he was gobsmacked really.. he knew she was beautiful.. even in her oversized striper uniforms and casual clothing back at the Manor.. but.. this was on a completely different level-.. you look so elegant.. Im not sure I can keep up my end of the bargain.. I might break you.. -he offered her a teasing smile there.. laughing a little as one of the well dressed waiters approached.. offering him a glance at the label on the wine there.. he nodded.. before the waiter did the same for her.. to ask if it was to her liking.. if all was well he would pour two glasses of this luxurious wine.. before sliding the bottle into its ice bath.. and backing away without a word.. -.. Thank you for coming..

-he would continue to glance across to her there.. unable to really tear his eyes away from her.. the curls.. the way she had done her hair.. the soft subtle coloured hue upon her cheeks.. her choice in perfume.. or was that just the way she smelt.. whatever it was.. it was driving him to distraction.. he motioned toward the menus there.. the booklet before her.. there wasn't a lot to choose from.. and nothing had prices on it...giving the air of expense.. of luxury.. but the choices were beautifully written.. descriptions enough to make ones mouth water if they knew what it was they were reading.. some rare ingredients.. mixed in with more common bases.. he perused his little book there for a moment.. before allowing it to close.. he would wait on her to decide.. or to choose.. before he would lift up his glass to her.. motioning for her to do the same if she was so inclined-.. to chance meetings.. -he would speak softly.. tinkling the glass rim with hers lightly.. before he would taste of the rich velvety liquid.. the waiter would approach.. asking if they were ready to order.. it wasn't rushed or pushed.. it was more one of those things that you got it out of the way.. so you could enjoy your guests time without interruption.. he nodded.. motioning for her to go first..he would order the stonebass.. along with the mock turtle soup to start with and then.. to share.. he took it upon himself to ask for the elizabeth plate at the end..along with tea and fruit.. before the waiter would take the booklets.. bowing short then before he would turn.. and disappear into the crowd..

the music was soft.. gentle.. a piano somewhere off in the room.. someone played beautifully.. just setting an easy mood.. the lighting though low.. was not too dark.. just enough to be relaxing without putting people to sleep.. it smelt like fresh cut flowers.. sweet cigar smoke and wine.. -..Did you have an easy studying afternoon then?.. I left you enough time to settle in and learn a few things?.. -he unfolded the napkin then.. laying it across his lap there before he would sit comfortably.. his gaze upon her.. giving her his full attention-.. I dropped off a few boxes to the lecture hall.. if you are unable to help me later this evening Ill understand.. when I asked earlier.. I hadn't quite planned for.. -he motioned to her and him and then the room-.. all this.. it was a spur of the moment thing..-he took another small drink from his wine there.. placing the glass down upon the table there-.. I had a moment or two with Dr Barathon.. it's where I headed after the hall.. we talked about accelerating courses.. and the like.. -speaking further on their talk from earlier-.. and though i didn't go into great detail.. I did mention a few things..and he was more than happy to take you on.. if it came to that.. he said he'd be honoured.. that if you were half as smart as I had told him you were you'd be a shoe in.. -he laughed a little-.. I was simply honest as to the skill I had witnessed first hand.. -he held his hands up in defeat-.. no favourites.. -he shot her a wink there with a smile...

only to pause a moment.. looking over her shoulder.. there was a young couple.. one of the two they had passed on their way in.. he could see the woman had stepped off for a moment.. probably powdering her nose.. and the lad was fumbling with a small ring box in his pocket..-.. watch.. -he tilted his head..the young woman moved to return to the table then.. and just as the lad was about to drop to a knee.. it looked as though a waiter was about to approach-..mm.. no.. not yet.. -he flicked his wrist.. she would have felt that crackle of energy there as he spent just a touch of his magic then.. enough to cause a secondary table to call for that waiter.. so he would be redirected.. and the couple would not be disturbed.. the proposal occurred without interruption.. the young woman giving out a little squeal almost in delight.. hugging.. kissing.. all commenced and he laughed a little.. turning back to her then.. -.. now.. where were we..

-he took another drink-.. Ah.. yes.. Dr Barathon.. he said the room was yours.. if you weren't comfortable staying there without some kind of exchange of funds.. he said he was more than willing if you wanted.. to take you on as a Nanny.. for the short time you were there.. he said he could use the help and you and Grace seemed to get along like a house on fire.. -he offered her a smile-.. but all of this is neither here nor there.. because.. well.. -he motioned to her-.. the decision lays with you of course..-a silver tray upon wheels would arrive.. their first courses upon it.. all hidden beneath silver lids.. one placed before her..the other him.. the lids were removed.. his looked almost alien.. round and yet square.. cubes with almost mushroom like peaks.. he offered a nod of his head to the server.. before plucking up his spoon there.. waiting for her to begin.. before he himself would tuck in..the food here would look quite different from the normal restaurant fare.. the chefs tried different things.. were extremely well travelled and emulated what they had learnt from world renowned eateries..

he enjoyed his entree thoroughly though hardly finished it.. hoping that she was pleased and enjoying herself.. he'd all but forgotten there were even other people in the room.. to him there was only her in those moments.. the only time the bubble burst really was when a server or waiter...a young woman would change that though as she approached.. a basket resting over one arm.. within it coloured roses.. all different.. a wide varied spectrum.. she came to his side of the table.. it was custom.. it would be then that a server would approach also and take the entree dishes away.. leaving the trio.. he'd pluck a rose from the basket..the women smiled at the choice.. offering a bow of his head to the rose carrier.. before she would wander off to the next table.. -.. it's a custom here.. at this eatery.. -he would mention.. placing the bloom down upon the table before him-.. she comes in the evenings.. offering a bloom of particular colour to the gentleman at the table.. to give to his guest..

-he would take a drink of his wine there.. before he would move to stand.. -.. come step out with me for a little while?.. i imagine the main will be along in a little while.. I could use a little air.. -he would reach for her hand.. the rose resting in his other as he guided her out through those crystal doors.. the balcony ran right along the outside of the restaurant.. but only on the far back side of it.. so no one on the street could peer at those upon it.. beneath them was a few rolling hills blanketed in soft long grasses.. floral blooms..and then the wide expanse of the ocean.. white tipped waves crashing in the distance.. the breeze was soft.. a little cool but not to the point of it being chilled.. .. he moved to step around her.. to come in behind her.. his right hand coming down to settle upon her hip..he drew that rose forward.. offering it to her.. it was a deep rich burgundy in colour.. -.. Will you come with me to the Celebration of the Heart Rose?..-whispered into her ear-.. when Winter has relinquished her grasp upon the highlands.. and the warmth of spring slowly begins to breathe its life into the surrounding hibernating earth..I know of your.. hesitation.. in going to Arvandor.. -he spoke softly.. his chin coming to rest there upon her shoulder as her other hand slid around her to hold her now that she took the rose-.. but I'll keep you safe.. i promise..

-he would wait on her reply.. the pair of them staying out .. under the starry night sky for some time.. just enjoying each others company.. before he could notice the meal being served upon their table.. he'd guide her back in.. drawing her chair out once more.. waiting till she had settled before he himself would sit.. the fish was perfectly cooked.. crispy where it needed to be.. and flakey everywhere else.. the sauce complimented it.. he enjoyed it thoroughly.. -.. in as much as I am sure the chefs here are world trained.. and this is.. utterly beautiful.. still nothing beats what my dear Uncle can cook up.. -he laughed a little.. shaking his head.. he'd just watch her every so often.. just catching glances.. little looks .. not enough to make her feel like she was being stared at.. but.. he was utterly enamoured.. enchanted even.. he placed his knife and fork down when he had had his fill..reaching for his napkin as he blotted the corners of his mouth there.. downing the remainder of the wine from his glass.. it was leaving him with that warm lush feeling that only came from a really good meal and an even better wine.. rubbing his lips together a little-.. good yes?.. -he would tilt his head..he noticed several couples moving to rise then.. and he took a breath.. rolling his neck.. moving the napkin from his lap then.. to rest upon the table.. he'd move to stand.. re-buttoning his suit jacket as he came to her side.. reaching out for her hand-.. Guess it's time for me to pay up yes?..

-he laughed a little.. waiting until her fingers had graced his hand before he would lead her down through the room.. passed the now empty tables.. a few of the older guests remained.. namely the gentlemen.. and a couple of others.. but for the most part everyone had shifted from the dining hall.. into the opened area...where the dance floor would await.. this room was beautifully dressed.as would be expected.. but maybe not quite to this degree...chandeliers hung low filled with floating crystals.. the walls were decorated with deep red and burgundy velvet curtains.. paintings hung of Kings and Queens.. of nature scenes.. opulence and beauty.. and there was a stage at the end.. the piano there.. clearly where the music had come from earlier.. a woman.. in a long beaded gown stood she was tall.. willowy.. her hair was platinum.. almost white.. her eyes were such a rich vivid green.. the points of ears sat high against the sides of her head.. High Elf perhaps.. the other couples had walked onto the floor.. standing talking amongst themselves.. before the music would begin.. he would take her hand then-.. Shall we?.. -he would speak softly.. guiding her onto the floor then.. what started off slow.. soft and delicate would grow a little.. the singers voice ringing out as he drew her in close.. a slow dance would ensue.. his hand resting against the soft dip of her lower back-

His suit

entree

Main

Slow dance music - fixed

Elizabeth platter

[BadInfluence]

His laughter was like warm honey over her ears, and to be able to hear it today after so much sadness, it really meant the world to her. He was still able to laugh, something she hoped that meant he was still healing, that today didn’t just shut everything down. The cigarettes were a gift and something she hoped he could make use of, and while he smoked and calmed his frayed nerves, they talked. About the Gods and Goddess of her own people who, to be quite honest, were a faceless blur in her mind. She knew nothing about being an elf, and God knew she couldn’t cut it as a human, so she straddled shore and sea until she found a place to rest. She might look into this, she might give it a try, but that would all come later when things had… Fallen into place a little more. Right now, she was just happy to learn from him, to take from that wealth of information behind the handsome face he was born with. “If you aren’t learning, your dead… It’s impossible to live a day of life and not learn something new, even if it’s small, virtually insignificant it’s still something new.” She learned something new every day, sought out something different, a bit of information to add to her own stores. How else were you going to live a full, rich life if you just sat there and were a passenger in your own life, rather than the driver? “I think I can do it now… I have a little source of courage I didn’t quite have before, a confidence to go and see it in a new light, and that makes the difference I think…” He made her more courageous to see who she was herself, he was half wood elf just like her, he gave her hope that it was going to be ok… “I think he was the one that found me… They aren’t allowed to keep records at the orphanage, it can be damming to the children or to their parents, and in the end it’s unfair to both parties either way. Like their entrance into the orphanage suddenly dictates their value or worth… Because of that I know there was nothing there on my acceptance outside of what this stranger told me, but given he was the only person that told me anything, I figured it was as close to the truth as I could get…”



The Gods here on the surface were more than a little strange in a lot of ways, they varied from region to region for one, and two… They were, some of them, pretty evil and downright terrifying. She paused, silent as he talked about this woman he had cared for, named Ivy. It made her lips curl into a smile to see him laughing a bit, the way he recalled details with her, it was obvious that it was a lighter time in his life… And she wondered if he realized that he probably made Ivy’s last days on this earth that much brighter for him playing along with her, how having a young handsome man take her to church that wasn’t a relative would have set many of those old birds on their ear, and how it probably made her feel young again for a while too. “She sounds wonderful, and I am sure she adored the beans out of you, the two of you must have made each other quite happy together before you left. As for the rest…” She said with a slight shrug, remembering religion but never feeling a connection, there was no… Link… No divine spirit, no flame of religious fervor, none of it. She simply felt… Detached. Like she did with just about everything in her life… It’s hard to love a God when one of his own angels promises to roast you in a place called hell for the smallest infractions… Sounded like a bit of bullshit to her. “The gods here can’t seem to make up their mind… They promise to send you to a place of eternal damnation for small infractions while on the other hand swear compassion and forgiveness for all things… Bit of an oxymoron these human’s religions but it seems to be that which drives them... I have never seen a human do evil with such zeal as they do when driven by a moral conviction…” She said, shaking her head as she recalled one of the events as a child, a man had killed his whole family before turning on himself, stating the Devil made him do it in the last notes on a page of paper… Who in the world would want to have anything to do with a religion, a God like that? “I learned about it because it was just… Expected, but I never once felt connected to any of it, it was just… There… It’s a tool I use to connect with other children, to help explain certain parts of their life or outside events, it helps them feel more settled… A bit like how you yourself use it as you said…” He offered a few moments later to teach her about her race, their Gods and Goddess, what it was like to be an elf before they made her first ‘official’ trip to Arvandor… She thought it would be nice to do it on the roof, just them a blanket and some cocoa, to watch the stars spin on by and talk the night away… It was all she could hope for, just a few more stolen moments with him, a chance to exist by his side with the push and press of the world outside. She was looking to him when he spoke on how everyone feels disconnected sometimes, her lips curling up at the corners just a bit, and at that last bit… The sweet blush on her cheeks… “So… When you find that someone… What will you do about it?” She asked softly, wondering what his thoughts on it would be, how he would react… She knew she had found her place in him, that he was where she wanted to be, where ever his feet lead him he would follow. But what about him? He had thought his place was with Cora but the more the learned about their marriage the more she knew how… Wrong it had been… It was more than just a one sided thing, because sometimes even those can work out, what happened to him… It was more like a Shakespearian travesty. He was coming to see that now, but was it too late, was the damage inflicted a little too deep? He might be willing to thaw himself out of his winter season but that didn’t mean he would embrace a spring yet either…



The lust dust was the one glitch in the cog for her, it just didn’t sit right, to be influenced… For so many years she avoided it like the plague, afraid she would end up falling into bed with someone she didn’t know or care about, and be left to deal with the irrevocable consequences thereof. Even if Elves were more… Relaxed and open about it? That didn’t mean by any standing that she was quite ready to make that leap yet. She was curious about sex now with him, hell, maybe even a little eager… Last night with what they had shared left her warm and quaking, her body still sore, still ached in these delicious little ways that she couldn’t really share… Guilty pleasures… She certainly wanted more with him, she wanted it all, but she also knew after last night? It was… A bit one sided… She was ready… He wasn’t… Which, when one takes into consideration that she was the virgin and he the Paramour, was almost slapstick hilarious. Bringing the lust dust into the mix would only change the dynamic and she wasn’t sure which way, and she certainly didn’t want to be the only one hit with it, it was hard enough to… Hold back… For both of them… If she was the only one wanting to pounce she didn’t think that would go over terribly well. Still, the fact he would be feeling it with her, well that did help settle her a little bit. It was interesting to hear his offer to drag her along, her lips curling up that wry, one sided smile she wore just for him. “ Drag me along? You make it sound like it’s a chore, not a party favor, you ding dong.” She said teasingly, a soft laugh there on her lips as she thought about it, gently shaking her head. “I’d like to help, it sounds like a lot of fun, and it’s definitely a new experience. Besides, I would spend the day with you, so I really fail to see a downside in any of this?” A day with him in the warm sun and learning about her people? Being an elf rather than an outsider? Seriously, where was the catch, because to her? It sounded like a good bit of fun…. The last bit though… She didn’t forget that… She didn’t ignore what he had said, that he would keep her safe… “Always?” She’d ask, softly, looking up at him… It was such a big… And yet small… Thing to ask… She’d never had anyone offer to keep her safe… Not a soul… She had been her own army and defender, her own protector and having him offer that, it moved a part of her in a way that almost made her want to cry… Not quite bitter sweet but perhaps a touch sharp, the warning bells in her head gently ringing, knowing it was risky to even ask… Yet she wanted him to… So badly…



She mentioned Anouk and her concerns, thoughts about the festival, what to wear… She had extreme faith in Anouks skills, even if it had all been a massive shock at first she knew what ever was done, was perfect because she looked stunning in everything so far. “We’re meant to meet people at special times in our lives. Sometimes they come and go, leaving their mark for the time they were there, changing your life in those moments and ever after… Others come and stay for the entire story, a part of every chapter thereafter, and they’re a large part of your life… Both are important and both are meant to be in your life precisely when and where they are… Anouk came into your life when you needed her the most, and I’m sure in a big way, she needed you too. Remember, a friendship is a two way street Jacob, people come into your life because something in you draws them in, it’s never random or happenstance.” She said warmly. Honestly she had never believed in anything half so much as she did that, that people come and go in your life exactly when they are meant to, they are never late or early and precisely when they are needed the most. She had been alone for a very long time, and only recently talked to Bett on and off, and because she met Bett? She was able to be called into the meeting room, to see Jacob and make that connection, that spark that suddenly fired her soul like a miniature sun… She and Bett hadn’t talked since, because she felt that Bett had come in just when she was needed, and had left her when that moment passed… If that wasn’t genuine evidence? Then what was? Anouk was in her life now, just like Kit, and she was finding herself being stretched and growing in new ways… Less self contained… She was moving out, moving around, learning how to live in her own skin rather than blend into the crowd… It was scary, no doubt, but it was also sort of… Amazing. “Is the card good for only one use though? I would hate to spend it when you said she comes to the festival every year? I can just find her then I’m sure and save the card for an emergency.” She was able to figure out that much at least, and it showed she really was frugal, not one to waste something on a whim. It was a few moments after this though that their conversation turned serious, and honestly it was hard on them both, though for different reasons. She could have been greedy, she could have made a big reaction, dragged him through the coals… It was well within her right in a lot of ways to act in an entirely female matter and slap him, but that wasn’t her, it wasn’t how she felt about him… Around him… He had hurt her in a rather passive way true enough, but at the exact same time there was absolutely no rule or law anywhere that said he had to tell her everything right off the bat, and he was damn well entitled to his own privacy too. He had rights to his secrets as much as she did, and in all honesty, he had a whole lot more barbed wire fencing to move though than she did… She was just grateful for what he shared, even if it did leave her a little raw, a little tender… She told him to relax, gently running her hand up and down his back, he was wound up tighter than a jack-in-the-box. She told him she understood, and in a lot of ways she did, she could honestly empathize with his situation. Cora had traumatized him, left him trapped in traction, bound to a situation and emotional hell where nightmares flashed through his mind far more often than dreams… “You know no one blames you… Even if you are aware of it, I don’t really think you know that, I feel that you’re thinking… Maybe it’s just pity… Maybe people were just being kind on the surface but underneath were judging you… Fact is… Everyone takes life differently… But smooth seas never made a good sailor, you can’t say you have traveled through life without having a few falls and accidents, bearing the scars it leaves you… You’re just noticing it more now because your not sleep walking anymore… You’re a conscious, active person in your life again, and you know… You’re going to be a little logged… You’re going to have to learn a lot of things all over again… But that doesn’t mean you failed or did anything wrong, if anything, you did exactly what you should have done for you… Just like you are now…” He had been a passive observer in his own life probably before Cora even died if she was reading their relationship right, and given how it all ended, all the blood and pain and bitterness… Was it any wonder he chose to sleep through the world rather than force his broken an bruised body through the battlefield? She told him how she saw his movements now, specifically in regard to romance, his current passive openness for a partner… He wouldn’t do it unless something really was there… Something deeper than a sexual attraction, that had come and gone with Cora and he was probably still choking on that bitter tablet, and in all honesty a physical attraction was the last thing he would probably take a leap for first. She continued to sooth her hand up and down his back when he said she knew him better than anyone else, which really was quite the compliment, they knew each other just shy of a week but she was able to read him so well… Like a book written in a language only she could speak… She wondered if he was trying to read her too… Did he want to see what was written on her soul? Or would he just want to see the cover of the book? “Call me cruel but I wouldn’t say again… Truth is Jacob I wouldn’t call your first marriage anything other than… Two people playing at house… The motions are there but not the truth or the purpose… I think it’s why you’re so deeply hurt by it all in part, because for you… It was real… You believed in the story, in the fairy tale, and you worked so hard to make it real… But you were the only one working… When you marry… For real this time… I know it won’t be without a connection so bone deep you can’t breathe without feeling them inside you… This person… Whoever you pick… You might say nothing in the world is perfect but to you?... She will be.”



In truth as they talked about the whole issue with him seeking courtship, and how if she had the chance, she would have picked him herself. Honestly she loved him and she was so real about that, no guile or lies, just simple sweet truth. She loved him and she honestly would have given up quite a lot to be the one at his side, but like him, they both had their reasons… The purposes why things just… Weren’t happening. “I know…” She said gently, and honestly she did, and it was almost… Unfair… The situation they found themselves in when at the end of the day, it shouldn’t be so hard, should it? They didn’t come from warring families, their worlds weren’t eons apart, and they weren’t in different mental classes… Their only big separator was their difference in funds, and last she checked, that really was no reason for a story to start or end… No this was… A lot more complicated. His scars, the view people would take, the judgement that would pass on both of them… At least they were talking about it though, rather than leaving it to languish in the dark, neither of them talking or understanding just why they were in the state of limbo. “This sort of… Came on both of us out of the blue, we weren’t looking for it actively, or even passively really… But it found us anyways, didn’t it? Leaving us in quite the situation because we, neither of us, can really do much about it… Not… Not in a way that we would like to…” Like… Being open… Or at least being able to have small displays and not have it devoured and picked over like an animal carcass in the savannah. Patience was a virtue and she had it, so did he, but the trick wasn’t patience or lack there of. It was more so not even having a path they could really walk down, and the more she thought about it, the more she saw just how hard this was going to be on him… Her? She could take it… She could take all the ugly the world could throw at her and laugh in its face and tell it that life hit like a girl… It was… Him… His fine morals and upstanding, his feelings on his situation, his stance with her as her teacher… Sometimes… Life just sucks more than a whore with a crack addiction to feed… She reached out to him with her free hand and took his under hers and gave it a gentle squeeze. “What I do is my choice, of my own volition, and not in any way in regards to what I expect back from you. My heart chose you before I even knew what it was doing, it’s decided you are the one it wants to look after, to long for and that’s my own journey. You can’t tell the rain, more rain, or the sun less sun… It’s as natural as the world around us to me to feel this way, and I’m at peace with it, no matter how you feel. That’s the beauty of being in love… You don’t have to have it back in order to feel your own… It’s a cup that flows over all on its own, a garden that blooms and plants itself of its own will, and because of that it doesn’t need anything from anyone to flourish…” She said gently, quietly against the wind, the way the soft wind swirled and danced around them and made little ballets out of the leaves and fallen flower petals. “We know where we each stand now, the two of us while on the same path of sorts, are in very different places… All I seem to do is cause you internal discord between what you want and what your morals and your fine manners tell you is right. In saying what I have, I haven’t helped you at all, I’ve only hurt you.” If he tried to interrupt she would shake her head, even laying her finger softly across his lips if she must, because this needed to be said… Even if, just as before, it hurt a good deal to do it… Sometimes when you love someone, you have to be the one to take the pain, if only because you love that person so much you would spare them it all if you could. “I won’t mention it again, I’ll let it languish in the shadows where it belongs, and there it will stay. This between us shouldn’t hurt, it shouldn’t be a bittersweet thing, that’s not what I want for either of us… I can’t pretend I didn’t say it, and I don’t want to act like I never did, but… I can let the ghosts lay in their beds and let it be… It’s the kindest thing I can do for both of us.”



Pain… It was like gargling with acid to say it, her heart hurt, trapped in a nail studded vice that squeezed her to pulp… What was she to say? Do? Say please love me back? Hold me? Feel for me as I do for you? Give up your morals? Your internal compass? Give up everything you are just so I can have my dreams? God what sort of a monster would do that to another person? Especially someone they claimed to love? In those moments she just made a decision, and for all it hurt, at least the pain was hers alone… She changed the subject them, for them both, putting on a happy sort of air even while inside she bled out. Well.. They did say love was a slow death… She showed him the map, teased him about the ghosts and if specters gave him the spooks… It was nice to tease him, to revert into that more comfortable line of friends, where she would keep them… In as much as she could… Around him her willpower suffered holes like swiss cheese and at times it was all she could do to just hold on… Let alone go on the offensive… She watched him skip over it a bit, or at least tried to, her lips curling in a smile as her brow rose there. “Is that so? Well now we really DO have to visit one of those places won’t we? Unless you’re chicken? In which case I will just have to go alone.” She teased before they got back into the carriage to head off to the library as their first destination, the two of them were A Class book worms, and one of their favorite places in the world would always be somewhere with literature. She responded to his teasing, refusing to let him think he could get under her skin, and indeed he would have a hard time finding a chink that way! She was open about it, ever since she confessed about her late night habits back home he had made little alludes to it, ways for them to tease each other back and forth over it. Was she ashamed? Not even. She was a little proud of the fact she could always find a way in, and out, of almost any place she went to. Sure, it might have been a habit born out of desperation, refined into a sort of survival skill, but at least it was useful and… Around him… A bit fun. She gave him that cheeky response about being a lady and not telling to his question, sauntering off to go explore a little bit, the two of them never very far off from one another… The journal with the portraits was amazing, she genuinely loved it and would have seen more if he hadn’t put it up out of her reach, but she could always find it later! Let him think he won this round… For now.



He had taken her comment about him being cute in the photo and turned it around a bit on her, and if he thought for two seconds she was going to let that one float on the current he was sadly out of his lovely head. He had been cute younger… But if he thought he was still cute now, like nothing changed, he was seriously bloody demented and needed to be on medication. She thought he could use a dose of it and dragged him off into a darkened corner quickly, quietly, able to move as only elves can as she maneuvered them to a private enough area. Yes… God she wanted him… So badly… Her heart hurt from want but she knew better… Much better now… Instead she reached up and grabbed his tie, pulling him down for that white hot, sweet kiss that was needy hungry and a little lusty… Long enough to make his heart go out of rhythm… Too short for him to actually realize what had happened and adjust… Whispering that he was blind if he couldn’t see how gorgeous he was now, quickly stepping out of his reach, disappearing around a corner… Let him think on THAT for a while… She had to calm herself down, there had to be something in that book to help with this, these… Just… Ever present needs around him, from the delicately sweet to the boiling hot lava laced dark chocolate… She was losing her mind around him and it was honestly starting to fray on her… Her control was something she was so proud of but all it took was a word… A glance… A touch of his hand in a certain way to utterly blow all her willpower to shit. Until she could find out though she went through several regular books to calm down before she felt she could meet him again, going over the books with him, pinging back and forth over the one for Kit before the choice was made… Her own a large medical journal with everything she could possibly need to know… He purchased a few for himself as well before they left, she herself sneaking in that little book for him, something small but she hoped would pack a good impact. Back in the carriage they curled up against one another again, and she promised herself just today, that was it… Just… One more day… One sweet day before she would have to find the strength, somehow, somewhere to put a wall up… Keep him safe… Keep her sane… While they rode she gave him his book, smiling at the fact it made him happy, the words he spoke… Good to him? What was he then to her? He gave her a lot of amazing things without asking anything from her… Wasn’t this fair return? They made their orders, the teas and snacks, her ah… Double cup to ensure she didn’t get pregnant… Good freaking God after that talk… She was even gladder that she was well aware of how to stop herself from getting pregnant, otherwise this painful situation would become downright hell in a barb wire handbasket, leading to complications she wasn’t even remotely sure she could handle. She downed the moon tea fast, the heat hitting her from it but it was bad hot, it was downright piss in a cup cold. Actually no… Piss would probably taste better. She snuck a piece of his sweet thing, it was incredibly delicious and she was sold the moment she smelled the lemon and lavender, leaving him a bit of the sandwich… She was sneakily chewing a bit of it when he dropped the pregnancy, children and etc bomb on her and yes, he had shocked her more than a little bit. That hit her so hard from the left her head was almost ringing! She shook her head when he offered again to handle things himself, that he was just as capable of her to stop things on his end, that he didn’t want her uncomfortable. “Honestly… It’s really nothing, it’s just warm is all, and I tend to get a little… Cranky when I get too hot.” Well, unless he was on top of her or under her… Lord knew they both worked up a sweat last night and that had been the one time in her life that she had been boiling and loved every moment of it. And all that did was prove to her AGAIN that being around him was just down right dangerous… Period. When they spoke about children, if she wanted a family she told him she did actually love kids, of all ages and sizes… She got to be mother and sister all at once at the orphanage and she adored the freedom there, the happiness it gave her, but her life… Until him had been plotted out for the most part, she figured she’d die a virgin, and if she had a good enough job she would adopt a child or two and raise them as her own. In her mind though it didn’t matter if she was twenty two or two hundred and two, age didn’t make a difference in children, though his return point was solid… There is only so much of a window where one can have children and that alone is very important… “If we knew what life would do, it would be an incredibly boring walk, don’t you think? I don’t mind the shake up in a lot of ways, it’s good, it makes you learn and stretch… Find strengths and weaknesses you didn’t know you had…” There wasn’t much else to be said at that point in regards to it… Though when he said he wanted a family she knew what he meant…



Again she honestly wished Cora was alive so she could just bump her off personally for all of that… Jacob’s dreams had been really and truly poisoned by her… He wanted a family but he didn’t dare reach for it, the son she left him with, the cuckoo in the thresh nest was alien to him because of what she had done… She had robbed him of a happy marriage, a happy life, and the chance to be a happy father… Seriously the woman had to be the absolute biggest waste of space ever… Even worse than Ric, and GOD knew she had some damn low opinions of him! “At this point… The only person stopping you from finding all of that? Is you…” So long as Kace grew up loved? He would honestly never know any struggles or changes in his life, he’d be a well rounded young man by the time he was grown, and that was all anyone could ask for. Jacob tended to take on a little too much there, thinking that if he didn’t love Kace, for some reason he was letting the child down. Fact was… Kace would pick up on anything forced and that would do far more harm than good. Right now? Jacob needed to decide just what he wanted to do. If he wanted a wife and family, that beautiful house full of memories and a woman, a partner to grow old with? Then he had to actively make that choice, and that meant shaking off the last dregs of that artic chill inside him and actually start looking. Not for a woman, or a partner, or anything like that per sey… More so actually looking for things that made him Happy. Not just that he enjoyed, or that he thought was a nice pastime, but actually made him happy. Made him feel alive. He needed those things to remember how it felt, to teach himself how to be open again, to let things grow… If he didn’t? He’d be stuck with his head right back in the sand and wondering why his view was so dark. After that was all said though she shifted the topic to her concerns, her fear of Ric failing her out of spite, and… Perhaps the option to take an even faster course… She listened to his answers, rolling them over in her mind, as well as reflecting on what Kit had said that morning… Was he just a pair of butt cheeks flapping in the wind? Because that was beginning to look like it… All brag and swag but no bite what so ever. Like a tasteless curry… “I appreciate it… Thank you, really… I just can’t shake the feeling like he’s just waiting for something… Makes me tense…” Thin Ice… Thin Ice… Thin Ice… Something about that threat really and truly just made her stomach churn and sour… She paused when he mentioned the childbirth part, her hands starting to break out in a cold sweat just thinking about it, knowing that it was going to be hard… It would literally be the battle of her will versus her childhood trauma, too many things interlinked there, like a tangled knot she couldn’t just pick it apart to grab at the thread which played the issue… She took a slow breath and let it out, taking a sip of her tea because there was no way, ever, that any of this was going to be easy… She didn’t want it to be but… Was she asking for too much to just be able to deal with that fear?... Maybe so… Her thoughts were running along those lines and others before he brought up the money thing and hes, he had her choking on a bit of his cake she had snuck, having to quickly take a drink of her tea as rubbed her back. She was pretty sure she had inhaled a berry or something… It took her by such a sudden surprise it was like being smacked with a runaway carriage carrying cement. When she answered it was with a good deal of thought, hoping that with what she had said, he would take the out and run with it… Or drop it entirely… But he didn’t, and a part of her really, REALLY wanted to kick him in the shins for it. Honestly there was no real… Easy way to go about any of it. On one hand it could be seen as him paying for her favors at night which made her feel incredibly and impossibly cheap, like a mistress he just dabbled with on the side, paid her to keep her in standing and visited when it suited him… On the other hand she KNEW he meant it with all the worlds best intentions, with a kind heart and just wanted to help her out, knowing she had come to the manse with next to little… And honestly, it wasn’t like he couldn’t spare it, she was well aware of his financial standing at his own words… But that didn’t make it any easier, even the way he tried to turn it around wasn’t exactly easing it, and in the end… She just… She let out a sigh and shook her head… “Can I please just… Have a while to think about it? You’re the first friend I’ve ever had, with you I’m navigating this world of firsts, and in a lot of ways I am very much out of my depth… I don’t know what to say, or how to say it, and I don’t want to say anything if I am not sure of it… Or myself…” It was the best answer she could give him, it wasn’t a yes or a no, so if he felt… The urge so to speak… To sneak something into her purse or perhaps in a book, something along those lines, at least he would still have the option.



She thought she was managing pretty ok… Not well but… Ok… Trying to erect that wall as best she could without it being too thick or too obvious, but then he had to slide over into her cushioned seat, her heart began to thud instantly… Her breath catching… Cheeks flushing… Why did he have to make everything she did to keep them apart so damn impossible? And why, when he did that, did he seem so capable of keeping her at arm’s length? It was cruel and yet it was tempered by this tempting sweetness that made her want to give in anyways, despite knowing it was like sticking her hand into the flame, knowing it would burn and yet wanting to touch the dancing waves… That kiss was too short… Too damn short, like a drop of water on her tongue when she was dying of thirst, just enough to tease… To mock… He asked her out then and once again she had to wonder just… What in the world were they going to do with each other? She wanted to go though, hadn’t she told herself today was the last day, so there was nothing wrong… Right? Oh how she wished… She laid out her wants then, the cost for this date, and that was a dance… Just one dance… Something to nibble on, a memory to cherish and polish in her mind, to go over like a favorite stone… God his whispered words… The smile… Just how close they were… How easy it would be to fall… Was it any wonder she had a semi-death grip on his vest? When he agreed to her terms, they got up to leave then, he had paid the bill earlier so it was quite all handled. Once they were back in the carriage she said that once they got back to the Inn they would split up for a time, she had to study and he had mentioned wanting to prep, so they had a few hours apart… Strange how this was the first time during the day they had this… It felt… strangely alien. She easily took the books and such that he had left with her, nodding her head with a gentle smile. “Of course…” She reminded him if he started to founder or sink that he had a little book and a pocket watch style music box to help him get through it, hearing his whispered thanks before they split off, her heading in first… Catching the woman there with a slight brow raised before entering the house unquestioned, after all they weren’t after her, they were dead set on the catch of the day… Jacob himself.



She easily made her way upstairs to talk to Kit, holding the book and unable to help the bit of a tease with those love marks, god knew she had a few of herself if in a slightly… Different manner… “Well… Most of them… You should keep one or two that aren’t too visible for your own memories I think… I’m so glad you two hit it off Kit, I thought you would, he really was very kind… And Apparently very… Attentive?” It was hard not to tease her a little, just a touch, especially when she seemed so over the moon. She gave her Jacobs gift then and told her just how proud everyone was of her, and she saw the blush, glad that Kit was still humble enough to accept the praise but not bask in it. “It was… Eventful… I am thinking about taking an accelerated course if I can… It would mean I would stay here with another doctor but it also frees up Dr. Anakin to teach you and I really want you to have that chance, I believe in you Kit, and I don’t want you to have to play shuttle bug… You deserve a lot more than that.” The more she thought about it the more torn she was, not in regards to making a choice because a part of her… A part of her honestly believed it… She knew what she needed… Would… Do… Because it was the best thing for everyone involved. “If you want I can give you a recipe for moon tea, the girls at the brothel I lived under used it religiously to keep from having any… Um… Add ons? This way you can enjoy your partner if you two are… you know… And not worry about any um… Tangled lines? I’m sorry… I’m not very good and this and I’m not saying you have or that you would it’s just… I want to see you happy and keep growing Kit so I want to help… Even if I am pretty awkward about some parts of it.” She could have been a whole lot smoother… Right? HA! Yeah that was the best she could do, but she meant it with the best of intentions, and she just wanted to spare Kit from some of the hell she had already lived with before… If Kit was going to take the guard on as a lover then she deserved to have fun but to do it in a way that wouldn’t hurt either of them. Hence? The moon tea offer. They settled down then and they both sunk into their books, questions asked and answered back and forth, generally having a good time. She and Kit did this for some hours before she would ask Kit if she could keep a secret, unloading that Jacob had asked her out on a date, asking her if she might cover for her… That this was her first date and with that flyer and everything else going around the whole thing was going to be… Really tricky. She didn’t want to try and do this on her own, she didn’t think she honestly had it in her today, not when her mind was on her first date… “Thank you Kit! Honestly I just… I really have NO idea what to do. I honestly didn’t even really look at men before Jacob and now it’s just… I feel all sorts of confused and lost and unsure about a lot of things… Feels a little crazy… Really I appreciate it so much, I’ll return the favor if you ever need it, promise. I just want to keep the harpies and the mouth breather away from this for as long as I can.” She said, getting up to pull Kit into a hug for thanks, honestly Kit was doing her such a big favor… Helping her out so much in this moment… “God knows I’m the fattest book worm ever so this would be so true. Especially with the lecture tomorrow.” Though yeah… Study? Gone up in smoke. She was laughing on and off with how Kit was able to save the moment, seriously helping her out because she was more than a little lost with all of this, completely adrift… “To help?” She asked in curiosity, seeing her bring out a little kit full of make ups and pins, her head tilting to the side as she let Kit do her thing… Honestly if she had tried to do it herself she would probably end up looking like a clown whore… “I’m trying!” She said with a laugh as Kit teased her about needing to relax while she did her hair and make up, and really, she did try! She was going through a couple of perfumes that Kit had, and while they were all beautiful they weren’t quite her… Kit was more of a sultry, deep and alluring perfume and it suited her to a T, but less so herself… Kit was just this bomb shell and her perfume matched it. She went without it, letting her own natural scent speak for itself, something she was beginning to notice had changed… A bit… Imperceptible to others but to her? It was a flag in the wind. “I feel like I’m going to be sick… Is that normal? I swear sometimes when I’m around him it’s like I’m going to suddenly throw my heart up… It sounds gross but it’s the closest I can relate… It’s just… All sorts of confusing.” She knew she loved Jacob… But just because you know you love someone doesn’t make navigating the emotional and physical side effects of it any easier! Once she was done she stood up to go and put her dress on, realizing it was meant to be worn without a thing under it, and that… Was it’s own sort of challenge but she would manage it, she always did, always would… When she came out and saw herself in the little mirror she actually didn’t recognize herself, the girl with the freckles was suddenly a woman of captivating allure and more than a little mystery, and she wondered if she would ever get used to seeing that face there… The woman women up to pleasure and who, through the teachings of Jacob, had learned incredible pleasure and knew just what she was capable of… A stranger in her own skin but not exactly a bad one… “I wouldn’t be half this nice if not for your help Kit, you are just as much responsible for this as the dress or anything else, you helped make it happen… Sort of like a little fairy godmother…” She smiled and watched Kit run out to go check it he was there, realizing when she came back that she had completely forgotten to mention that, and winced. “I said we would help him this morning when he asked before he asked me out and ohhh hell Kit I’m sorry! I’ll buy you a slice of cake and coffee after we’re done?” She offered with a laugh before she would go, but before she was out the door, she leaned in and kissed Kit on the cheek very softly. “Thank you Kit, for becoming my friend, and I hope you know you are really important to me… Have a great night and I will fill you in on it when I get back.” She said, waving a little to her before she would head out and close the door, catching the attention of any who was out…



When she arrived at the grand palace she was honestly terrified internally… How could she not be?! She didn’t belong, her whole body, even atom knew she was as much a part of this world as a humble moth in a flock of emperor butterflies. Even so she put on her neutral face, her chin held high, her pose regal… She might not be much more than an orphan but she had been raised with all the manners a lady would need in order to move the world, and she was using them like weapons right now, fighting back the fear and navigating the new battlefield. She had arrived early of course, and she thought that with the time she had, she might enjoy a drink… A drink that she found was going to be much more complicated than she wanted, watching men burn each others fingers to try and light her sugar cube, and then the strangers hand on her back. No… That was more than too much for her and she slipped away from the area silently. She wouldn’t make a scene, never, but she wasn’t about to let someone think they could touch her just because… What? He was within reaching distance? Men… Even though well mannered here, some things, well they never change… She mingled with the crowd instead, and was able to recognize a few from the funeral, and while Jacob ran late? She ended up in an incredibly intense conversation with two other doctors there and surprisingly to everyone around, she was more than holding her own against them, in fact? She was winning. It was because of this she didn’t notice his entrance despite several women there definitely perking up and seeking his attention, to catch his eye, or at least a hello… They were going over the actual break down of anatomy and given she had just finished the book Jacob had given her, she was in her element indeed. She was able to battle on even standing with this long standing Doctor while she herself was just a doctor student, and it was earning her even more attention, several whispering among themselves that there was a reason Dr. Anakin had introduced her to so many… Not a romantic interest but a potential power house in the medical field… Soothing more than a few feathers of mothers and matrons who were after Jacob for their own ends… In these moments she didn’t feel like she was out of place, an orphan in a strangers jewels and dress, she felt… Like she belonged. Towards the end, just before Jacob would come up to her, the other doctor would cede defeat with a warm laugh and amicable nature. She had won an ally, or perhaps even an admirer when he stated that if only he was forty years younger, to which she replied she would still soundly trounce him in a debate. That of course earned several laughs from the group around them, including the doctor himself, and it was then that he made his appearance. She was in that red dress, and it was indeed virtually painted on, every inch of her beautifully displayed… She looked like a modern Venus, the body of Aphrodite, the face of an Angel… All sort of rolled into one. She had the rooms attention in one way or the other, just as much as he did, and when she saw him… Her heart stopped dead and she felt faint all of a sudden, her breath caught in her throat before it suddenly all started up again at once, and she watched him draw closer… That perfect suit reflected him as he was… Neither sinner nor saint, a fallen angel who kept his wings, a man who had been burned and bruised but still had a heart of gold… Let the others keep their blacks, blending into the fanciful crowd but for her, for her give her him… Just like this… A man dressed in dreams and cinders who made her want for things she never dared hope for… He really was her dream, the only dream her heart ever had, and oh… God… How it ached sweetly there…



She saw his bow and returned the perfect polite curtsy, her movements graceful, even romantic as she took his offered arm… Let them stare… Let them watch… Let them gossip… She cared not… He was there beside her again, making her world once more, and she couldn’t be bothered with the rest… She heard his compliment, the wow, her cheeks blushing beautifully… “Wow yourself…” She said back with a small smile, just for him, wondering if he was aware… That if the devil was half as handsome as he was right now, there would be a whole lot more souls in hell and a ton more empty slots in heaven… She followed along beside him as he walked them into a new area, more towards the back and past several groups, people standing and other sitting a their tables… She saw the table that was to be their destination then, the golden name plaque on it, her lips flicking up a little at the corner there… “You love black tea and cinnamon rolls… Being curled up under the rug and watching the sky fade over wine and cider… You think small pack lunches are amazing… And yet you have a table in the middle of what I am sure many people would think heaven would be like…” She shook her head, wondering if this was a place he got just for show, to make a certain standing… And he really did love everything else… Or if everything else just had a quaint new charm that would fade off and this would be his desired norm… It was… A curious thing to think about… She settled in gracefully to the seat he had pulled out for her, the front of her dress dipping open just a touch as she settled in, carefully arranging her skirts before he took his own seat. It really was amazing, a part of her wondered if anyone could ever get used to this, and if they did… Was that a good thing? She was just finishing her skirt when he commented on her looks, her cheeks flushing once more though she couldn’t help the smile, the way she was suddenly quite bashful… “Thank you…” She said softly before he commented that he might not be able to keep the end of his bargain, that he might break her, a brow rising there just slightly… “Do you mean to say you would drop me? If so I might just let you out of it because those floors are quite hard.” She said with a teasing note in her voice before the waiter came by, and she of course let Jacob handle everything, not only was it customary but he would know a whole lot more than her. She would nod her head gracefully when the waiter checked with her secondarily, accepting the glass of wine and gently holding the stem properly, two fingers and her thumb as she took a silent sip… And yeah… Oh my Wow… That was… Just… She couldn’t help the sweet little moan that slipped out as her lids drifted closed, letting the wash of sweet black cherries and pomegranates washed over her tongue, hints of cranberries and grapes under it all with just a touch of something citrus… Over all an incredible wine, neither too sweet or too tart, that ideal blend of the two that made you lost yourself with every sip… When he thanked her for coming she opened her eyes to look at him with a sort of sweet haze there… “Cinderella can’t exactly say no to Prince Charming you know…” She said with a gentle smile before pulling her hair over her shoulder, letting it fall in those sweet curls there as she looked over the offered menu, picking it apart bit by bit… No prices? Yeah… To avoid sticker shock most likely. The scent was her own though, and something that had started to slowly get stronger, ramping up even to almost take over her own soaps and shampoo… It was subtle in so many ways, yet it had all the right notes to make you take notice, to capture and control one’s attention… Notes of black coriander and jasmine, vanilla and licorice, and something deeper… Something that, when blended all together, was truly addictive… She took a few moments to decide what she wanted, but when she ordered, it might have been a little evil… Consommé soup to start with, followed by the finest slice of Filet Mignon with Mushroom Sauce, to be served with béarnaise sauce and asparagus tips cooked in white wine and butter. Once it was done she allowed the menu to be taken back, watching Jacob raise his glass for a toast, unable to help the smile there… The blush… The gentle tine of their glasses together. “To chance meetings…” She would take another sip of the wine, enjoying the atmosphere, the gentle music… A big part of her still mourned the loss of her melodica and so far she hadn’t found any like it anywhere… Still, she could enjoy the music, looking up at his words… “I did yes, Kit loves the books, thank you… We managed to get a few hours of deep study in… And we’re both more than alright with setting up the hall…” She said before adding at the end, gently running her finger over the rim of her glass, even her nails had been shined and glowing… “I like your spur of the moment… A good deal… It’s when you’re the most you… You’re not busy thinking about the pathways that might branch off, you’re just being you, just… Jacob… And that is, by far, the most precious gift.” She wasn’t sure what ears were around, and she was doing her level best ot be quiet, to be careful… To watch her words and her actions with him. She took another drink of the wine there as he mentioned what he had done with Dr. Barathon, his own teacher no less… It was a chance…



At Sanity…



Or absolute and utter sadness…



“You couldn’t play a favorite if your life depended on it… I can’t tell you how much I appreciate what you did…” She was about to say something when he seemed to catch something, her head tilting there before he pointed it out, and she ended up smiling… It was sweet… The woman.. The man… The way one was unaware of the other while the one was virtually falling apart at the seams wanting to make the biggest decision of his life… She watched him at work then, understand in part in the moment what he meant by working for the Goddess of Love, the flicker of magic… She was a bit too drained from earlier to do much which she was rather grateful for… Her lips twitched and she watched it all unfold as it should have… “I think I see now a bit more what you meant earlier… It’s no wonder you take pride in it… You help make fairytales…” She said before he got back on point from earlier, the way he mentioned that she had a room if she wished it, Barathon offering to teach her… And to give her the position of Nanny because yes, she wasn’t about to just take something for nothing, it wasn’t who she was. She did adore that little girl though, and right now, Gracie needed her… At least in her mind.. Her father needed time to heal, and Grace needed someone to hold her and just let her be a child in that time, something her father couldn’t do if he was to look after himself… “I’ll take it…” She said softly, hoping that he couldn’t hear the way it broke her heart, taking the jump for them both… “Kit needs a teacher full time, and when I leave, you will have a position open. You’ve seen her, how much she’s changed, and I think you would really enjoy teaching her. She needs you too, someone who can understand her, work with her like you do with me…If she passes or not is up to her, but you, you’ll give her that fighting chance.” And if she was gone… He wouldn’t be in this dilemma anymore… He would be free, to stretch out in his new emotions, the spring he was slowly welcoming back… She wouldn’t be there to hurt him or muddle his emotions up, he would be free of any guilt or the pricking of his conscience… She let it drift in silence for a moment, taking another sip of her wine before the food came out, and when his was displayed… She couldn’t help the sudden laugh, covering her lips for a moment, biting them down.. “Is… That really food? Or building blocks? If you stack them up and they topple, do you yell Jenga?” She asked in a soft teasing tone, at least her own soup was what she expected, though at the same time looking at it she knew it was going to blow anything she made clean out of the water. She gently ran her spoon from front to back, never scraping the bottom, and taking a silent bite of it. Oh yes, she had extremely fine table manners when it was needed, especially in a place like this. That first bite though ended up sending a warm snake through her and mixed with the wine was something else entirely, feeling herself react with tingles and sparks, a warm pleased sigh… She was a foodie, the better the food, the more she enjoyed it and this? Was the best she had ever had in her life… She wished desperately she had a bra on right now, it would have hidden the obvious reaction, but she hoped she could blame it on something… Anything…Or better yet? That he not notice at all…



She was silently enjoying her soup, watching him from time to time, catching his eyes and blushing… Smiling… Feeling like Cinderella… Only so, so much better, a thousand times more magical… She was about to ask what he was looking at when the woman with the roses came to their table, curiosity piquing her interest as she watched him pick a rose, the color as deep red as blood… Gorgeous… She took another sip of her wine as he explained the situation, smiling at the sweetness of it all, a bit random and yet… Utterly perfect for this place… She had finished off a good portion of her soup and wine before he asked her to join him outside, taking the offered hand as she rose with him, walking silently at his side to the balcony… The soft gasp at the view… It was stunning and she just watched it all unfold there, feeling him come up behind her, his hand on her hip… The rose offered to her as she lifted it… Pressing the soft petals along her skin as she let the moment swallow her whole… His question romantic and soft, sweet and perfectly worded, no longer shy or unsure as he had been before… She reached up behind her, her fingers tracking along his cheek, her heart pounding and thudding like it was going to pop out of her chest, an uneven stucco that caught her breath… “You can keep me safe from the world and all it’s sins Jacob…” She whispered, her free hand coming down to rest her fingers over his, tuning her head to look up at him. “But who is going to save me from you?” She asked as her eyes delved into his own, drowning in their beautiful blue green depth, searching there for something she wasn’t sure she could find… She reached back, her fingers tangling in his hair, about to pull him down for a forbidden kiss when the waiter came up and the moment was lost… A wry smile on her lips as he escorted her back in, setting back in her seat as dinner was served, and honestly…It was everything she thought food should be, gently slicing into the ultra tender, rare beef and the complicated sauce with the perfectly cooked mushrooms… That first bite? The moment the flavors exploded and danced over her tongue like an artist painting the sky at dawn… She moaned throatily, thoroughly lost in the complex and perfect flavors, her slow chewing was the sheer fact she was savoring it all… The meat was so tender it melted like warm buttery bread… The mushrooms perfect… God all of it was beyond her dreams… She opened her eyes as she reached for her wine glass which had been topped off, her lips curling in a smile as he made that comparison, taking a quiet sip before she spoke. “You could have the ambrosia of heaven and it would never compare to the food that eased your pains and lit your happiest moments as a child… It’s the joy of every parent, knowing no matter what, no one will ever compare to the food you cooked for them… It’s love just… In a different way…” She said as they ate, catching his looks, unable to resist giving him a few of her own… Just what a figure he cut, how gorgeous he was on the inside, how rare it was to find someone who could show just as much beauty on the outside… She ended up finishing almost all of it, leaving just enough on the plate to be polite, gently touching the corners of her lips with the napkin… Watching it come away perfectly clean as she hadn’t lost so much as a drop… She was… Floating… Excellent food and wine, the company and atmosphere, all of it was playing a dangerous game… Stacking logs against a wall already far too weak to really manage it… “Divine… I can see why you bought the table, or at least, have your name on it… The food is beyond anything I could ever imagine… Thank you… So much… It’s been a revelation in and of itself…” She said as he moved to stand, the napkin on the table as she wondered what he was getting up to, hearing his words, the rolling of his neck as he buttoned his jacket… The way he walked to her side of the table.. She couldn’t help the smile that shimmered across her lips… “No longer afraid you might break me?...” She asked teasingly as he escorted her into the other space, the open dance floor, couples already dancing… The room itself was… Like a grand hall of Kings… Certainly more than a dream and yet it had such a quality about it that there was no way not to wonder… To question… Would it all vanish? Turn into vapor and smoke if she touched it?



She would follow him, his lead easily, just as perfectly as she did behind closed door in their other dances… “I’ve been waiting a lifetime…” She whispered to him before he would take her in his arms… Their hands linked, his arm about her waist, hand in the dip of her back… The words that rang out from the high elf singer, her heart racing a the words, the lyrics sunk in… “You made it… Far too easy to fall in love with you…” She said gently against his ear, her heart feeling like it was a rabbits thumping alarm, going wild and far too fast… Shifting their hands she would link their fingers, uncaring at the moment, between the absinthe and wine… The amazing food… Perhaps even a touch of fatigue… All of it together was building up this perfect wild storm… A dangerous temptation that, combined with him, was far too hard… Impossible… To resist… Will you miss me, when I am gone?” She asked, looking up at him, seeking out his gaze… “Will you think of me often? What I wonder, would you remember the most?...” She asked softly, resting her cheek over his heart as they danced, her body following his like a shadow… The two of them one of the most graceful couples… Certainly the ones that caught the most attention since they were both dressed unlike anyone else there… “Will you remember my laugh?... The way I teased you?... My cinnamon rolls and tea?... My dry humor or caustic wit?...” A subtle move, one that had her brushing up against him intimately, easily overlooked and private… But one he couldn’t help but feel… The press of her breasts against his chest. “Or will it be the way I cry your name out when you drive me to abandon?... The way I taste?... How I look when I’m driving you to madness with my lips?... Will it be the feel of me under you, rocking with you, writhing in the sweetest agony I’ve ever known as you leave marks of your passage on my skin?...” It was whispered so low… A breath.. A promise… Temptation… She wanted to do everything right for them… For everyone… But oh… So much of her resistance… Her self control went up in flames when he laid his hands on her… “I’m covered in the marks of your fingers… I can’t close my eyes and not see you above me… Below me… The way you felt when you peaked inside me… Heavy… Hot… I felt… Perfect… Whole… Like my world made sense in your arms… I belonged…” It was almost a moan, her fingers curling in tightly, aroused and trying to cover it… Hide it… Desire battling with her wants… She desired him… She wanted to do what would make him happy… She didn’t think the two coincided… “Im sorry… For all the complication I’ve brought to your life this week… For as much good as I hope I’ve done… I’ve done as much damage… Caused you to go to war with your morals and virtues… I’ve torn you from the path you were on, tempted you to do things you never wanted to before, and I’ve hurt you… Something I never wanted to do… I hope… With my leaving to study here with Dr. Barathon that… You find peace in my absence… That you no longer fight inside yourself…” She said gently, for all her heart was screaming at her to stop, to put an end to this nonsense… She knew it was the right thing to do… They could have become lovers… But he wasn’t ready… She loved him but he was unsure of his own feelings… Neither of those were his fault… They were hers… She was ready to tread down this adventure… He was still battle worn and bruised… He needed time… And… Maybe he just needed someone… Not her. Someone who wouldn’t put such demands on him as to make him question values as intrinsically to him as his own flesh and bone…

[Deleted]

-he had arrived at the restaurant a little later than he had expected to.. and he chided himself when he realised she had been waiting for him for that long.. mentally giving himself a bit of a kick up the ass.. the concierge let him know she was in the bar.. or at least thats where she had told him she was going to head.. so thats where he head first.. she wasn't there however.. just groups of people dotted here and there.. many of the women trying in vain to get his attention.. and whilst he was indeed polite he was certainly not giving them much more than a nod of his head and a smile all be it small ...the flyer remained at the back of his mind.. and he had a feeling it was only going to get stickier from there on in.. the conference worried him a little.. the anxiety that was beginning to fester wasn't from the talk itself.. but the unwanted attention that could well turn up..

he moved out into the entrance hall.. where the walls seemed to fall back.. the marble flooring covered with richly coloured rugs.. ornamental tables upon every corner and empty wall space.. his gaze.. that soft blue and green wandered over the women.. he had no idea what she would have had on.. until he caught sight of that shock of red.. that dress that just took such a strangle hold upon his attention.. the dress caressed her form more than she simply just wore it.. it was as if it were painted upon her.. with only the most skilled hand.. his throat ran dry.. his heart took a few tumbles.. everyone else in the room more or less just melted away as he bowed to her.. catching sight of that sweet curtsy.. the corners of his lips curled and he couldn't help the smile that developed.. he offered her his arm.. a whispered 'wow' was shared as his free hand came down to rest upon hers there.. he guided her through the main dining hall.. weaving around the well decorated tables.. the chatter was soft amongst the couples and friends as they came to stand before his own.. the one with his name etched upon the little golden plaque.. he unbuttoned his suit jacket.. puling her chair out for her..

his head tilted when she spoke on the things he liked.. the smaller.. finer things.. that didn't perhaps gel so well with such a lavishly decorated hotel such as this one.. he laughed a little and nodded.. settling to sit himself finally-.. mm.. you are right.. I do love all of those things.. this.. -he motioned to the table-.. whilst it's nice.. it's not something I do often at all really.. at least not for myself.. -he rubbed his lips together.. the waiter approached offering the wine..-.. I used to auction the table off for a night or two.. with the funds going to help out organisations in the city..it was.. -he watched as the waiter left them alone after the glasses were filled-.. my fail safe.. mm.. see.. -he lifted the glass.. taking in the rich velvety liquids scent-.. when I studied here.. toward the end of my training.. they would do charity events at the hospital.. just little affairs.. to pool some gold back into the city proper.. Well.. the doctors would generally be auctioned off for a night.. you know the drill.. -he sunk back in his seat a little-.. dinner.. dancing.. or going to a show..whatever the purchaser wanted.. more or less -he waved his hand around a little-.. I didn't much care for it.. -he laughed-.. so I purchased this table.. and I would auction this off in my place.. I can count the amount of times I have dined here myself on one hand..

-he watched her from across the table there.. quietly in awe of how she looked.. and just how utterly beautiful she was.. making the comment about reneging on the deal.. in case he broke her.. her response was precious.. making him chuckle-.. mm.. no.. I'd never drop you Rose..-he lifted his glass there to her.. hearing the soft chime as they connected.. eyes meeting.. lingering.. the meals were ordered.. each choosing something a little different.. before he would enquire about her afternoon.. how things were going with Kit.. the studies and so on..he nodded as he listened.. glad to hear everything was going so well.. and that she would still be able to help him with the setting up of the hall-.. I graciously thank you for that.. any help I can get will be a godsend.. I fear I wont get much rest otherwise.. -not that he thought he probably would anyway..-.. I do tend to over think things at times.. it can make things a bit difficult..

-he told her about Dr Barathon then and the talks he had had with his old tutor that afternoon.. how there would be a place for her.. should she so choose to take it.. before he noticed the couple.. perhaps a little bit of intel had gotten through to him.. the waiter though that was about to interrupt.. well that just wouldn't do.. a quick wave of his fingers had the table beside them calling upon him.. and everything else went along just perfectly.. he smiled when she spoke on him helping to make fairytales-.. Sometimes they just need a little bit of direction thats all.. there can be so very many missed opportunities.. and generally we haven't steered anyone wrong yet.. -he turned the subject back to Dr Barathon and the talk.. how Grace required a Nanny so she wouldn't be just boarding there as a free-loader so to speak.. though when she quickly accepted the proposal he froze..oh he wasn't expecting that.. and he was.. all at the same time.. he knew it was for the best.. and he knew it would speed up her training.. but.. the thought of her.. not being there..was causing an ache to develop.. a sharp little pain.. he couldn't say anything in that moment.. he could only nod.. Ouch.. it hurt.. and this was new to him.. this feeling.. this sudden rush of raw emotion.. he picked up his glass there.. taking a small drink from it.. trying to smooth out the jagged nerves..

he glanced down at his hands there when you mentioned Kit needed a tutor.. and how with her gone.. the girl could step into her shoes.. so to speak.. -.. of course.. - he spoke quietly-.. I will talk with Dr Barathon tomorrow and we will see what we can organise.. -he reached around.. to rub at the side of his neck when the entrees arrived.. being placed before them both.. her comment on how food resembling building blocks had him laughing a little.. he even went so far as to pop a few of the cubes atop one another to prove the point that yes it could be done.. before he tucked in.. it was incredibly good.. regardless of how it looked.. and he could tell she was enjoying hers.. the soft noises she was making.. the genuine little smiles.. oh he caught it all.. and it was almost bittersweet.. this was foreign to him.. and he wasn't sure how to take it.. the lady with the basket of roses approached.. he singled out the only burgundy coloured bloom.. it was such a deep richly coloured flower.. placing it down before him there.. before he would move to stand.. asking her to join him.. outside for a little air if she had finished with her meal.. the doors were opened and she was treated to the view.. the ocean.. the rolling hills.. the starry night sky.. he pulled in behind her.. his arms falling upon her.. to hold her.. as he gave her the rose..watching.. looking down a little as she dragged the baby soft petals across her skin.. he asked her then.. to come with him.. to accompany him to the Celebration of the Heart.. that he would keep her safe at all costs.. there was no bashfulness or awkwardness in his voice.. he knew precisely what he was asking.. and it was said with confidence..

his lids heavy when she reached to touch him though.. feeling those fingers falling across his cheek and jawline.. he watched her as she turned in his arms there a little.. his breath caressing her chin ..though it would sound in a soft little gasp when her fingers found his hair.. tangling in as his grip upon her middle tightened just a little.. they were incredibly close in that moment.. and it would have taken no time at all for their lips to have met.. only they were interrupted right that moment by the server.. instructing them their main was being served.. he laughed.. just a little weakly as he drew back from her.. guiding her back into the room.. and to her seat.. he had the crispy skinned fish and she the beef.. he mentioned how even though the food was perfect.. it couldn't have met what his uncle cooked for him.. he Loved Garafins food.. especially the fish.. her response made perfect sense.. enough for him to nod as he took a drink of the wine there..-.. mmhmm.. i do believe you are correct there.. love on a plate.. every single time.. you'l see.. -he knew Garafin would love her.. he just had that kind of nature.. he asked if she was liking it.. if the food was enjoyable.. smiling when she said that it was beyond anything she could have imagined..he couldn't help the looks.. just covert ones every so often..he was just so happy to be able to see her enjoying something so much.. it did more for him than he would probably ever admit.. he moved the napkin from his lap there as he moved to stand.. several of the couples in the room had moved on and he knew what that meant.. he buttoned his jacket.. telling her it was time he paid up.. guiding her to a standing position.. he leant in just a little at her remark-.. mm.. not this time.. -the corners of his lips curled.. before he guided her through the dining hall.. and into the open dance floor..

several sweethearted couples already swaying just lightly to the piano that hung about like a soft fog.. he asked her if she was ready.. as he took her hand.. leading her.. guiding her until they found a spot.. nearer to the middle.. his arms slid around her.. holding her.. one to the small of her back.. the other upon her outstretched hand.. the music came out quite strong.. almost haunting in its throbbing beat.. it was very.. very reminiscent of the music he had chosen the night before.. in his bedroom.. she curled in close to him.. whispering in his ear about how easy he had made it to fall in love with him.. his breath exhaled slightly hitched.. his poor heart was stuttering there within the confines of his chest.. his fingers curled against the soft fabric of her dress.. bunching it a little at her back.. she was pressed against him as they swayed.. there was no denying it.. the actions were incredibly arousing.. though easily hidden by the low lighting of the room.. that and the fact they were dancing..

he span her around so her back was to him then.. his palm coming to press against the soft dip of her belly as they continued to move..his lips nearer to her ear this time.. -.. Do you have any idea what you do to me?.. -he'd whisper.. the two of them gaining a bit of attention with their actions.. the smoothness of their movements..the fact it all looked so very fluid and just perfect.. -.. How badly I just want to.. touch you.. -he'd whisper as he span her around once more.. only to draw her back in.. the sway of hips to hip.. her ass to the growing hardness of his slacks.. thankfully concealed by the length of his jacket-.. I want to kiss you.. to taste you.. -he growled into her ear there as he span her around to face him .. drawing her in hard against him.. before he would dip her back.. her body bending.. arching smoothly and fluidly.. her words were just adding more and more fuel to the fire there.. would he miss her.. would he think of her often.. and what would he remember.. her teasing.. her food.. her tea.. and caustic wit..

his gaze remained upon her as she brought all this up.. the swell of her breasts pressed against his chest only forcing that bodies betrayal.. so when she was rolled around and her ass was pressed to his pants.. well she would have felt it.. there was no mistaking it.. her tormenting continued.. her teasing.. bringing up the things she did for him.. how she cried out his name.. how she tasted.. how she looked when she went down on him.. the feeling of her body under his.. rocking.. writhing and grinding against one another.. he swallowed.. forcing out a hissed breath through grit down teeth.. thankful to the goddess that the music was loud enough to conceal all of it... though when she went to apologise to him he pressed his finger to her lips-.. shh.. no.. no apologies.. not a single one.. -he wouldn't allow her to continue.. he didn't want to hear it.. the chorus took over.. the loudness of the singers voice.. the instruments just coursing through everyone in the room as the lighting lowered from above and brightened from the floor.. though in softer colours..the view of stunning dresses turning and fluttering as their owners danced and spun..he was struggling.. incredibly.. more than he had before.. at least in that he could remember.. but it was different this time.. whilst it was clear defeat was on the cards.. it wasn't that it was a bad thing.. in fact.. it was the oposite-.. I can't.. I.. -his brows furrowed as he span her around to face him once more..

his hand coming to press against her lower back.. it was clear from his expression he was conflicted.. he was frustrated.. his breathing came out a little harder.. a little faster as he released her once more.. letting her spin out before drawing her in against him hard-.. I can't...-he couldn't what?.. he couldn't be near her? he couldn't take it anymore?.. his gaze searched out her own.. his hands having glided down the supple curves of her frame.. and in that dress Wow.. it was all on display.. his body lowered.. his knees bending as she continued to sway.... to roll and circle.. his gaze never left hers though.. his head tilted upward.. his hands though.. his soft warm fingers found the slit in that dress of hers..his right hand sliding beneath.. she'd feel him there.. at the back of her left ankle.. curled in.. and his lips.. warm pressed to where the slit began.. there against her upper thigh.. just a ghost like kiss.. barely existing.. fleeting even.. did it even actually happen?.. before his breath coming out heated would cool the damp skin and he in one smooth seemingly unnatural motion would be standing before her once more.. human bodies weren't able to move like that.. akin to liquid..

his hands gliding up then once more.. over her thighs.. the rounds of her hips.. one pressing to her lower back as he dipped her once more.. he suddenly felt a cool hard rush.. it coursed the length of his spine..it was almost all encompassing.. she would have felt it also.. it was like someone had opened the doors wide enough to let a chilling breeze in.. and yet no one else in the room seemed to be affected.. before he would feel that tap upon his shoulder.. it burst the bubble then.. snapping his attention as he noticed the gentleman there.. everyone in that restaurant apart from the staff were on a level playing field.. wealth.. titles.. prestige.. they were all either young and quite attractive.. or older and distinguished.. and this one.. that was cutting in..had all of it in spades.. he was young.. most probably in property.. stronger though.. his shoulders were broader.. and Jacob was caught.. stuck in a web.. he couldn't really say no could he?.. she was for all intents and purposes unattached..he had dug this hole..

he bowed his head there.. taking a step to the side.. his gaze upon her as the gentleman drew her into the beat of the music.. that hauntingly thick.. heart throbbing sound.. the fog curled around their ankles.. small bursts of it adding an air of mystery to it all.. he felt a hand to his shoulder there.. it was a young woman.. enquiring if she herself could take that place.. to dance with him.. his attention was split.. and he stuttered.. looking between this new young woman.. and Rose there as the two of them shifted across the floor with an unnatural ease that was making him feel off put..he blinked and nodded to her.. falling into step.. though it was a lot more polite..his steps met hers easily.. calculated.. though there was no romanticism about it.. not a mere thread of it.. every spin would have his gaze looking back to find the couple in the growing crowd.. the smoke wasn't helping matters.. though he could easily catch the striking red of her dress every so often.. the young woman offered a little curtsy then before she backed away and his shoulders sunk a little.. what was this?.. what was going on?.. his hand rose as he rubbed it back along the sides of his neck..

he crossed the floor.. sinking down onto one of the chairs there as he plucked up a glass of wine from the passing server.. his fingers tracing the length of the glass stem.. his poor heart was offering him an unusual rhythm.. thudding hard every so often.. enough to cause his cheeks to flush as he grew warmer.. and then skipping in the next.. this was hard.. harder than it perhaps should have been.. he noticed all to well just how it was not only his eyes upon her.. he was certain when he had entered the room that it was filled with couples.. but now that he looked properly.. there were a lot more.. singles.. men dotted here and there.. women also.. he could hear the conversation breaking out behind him.. a couple of women remarking about the woman in the red dress.. one of them wasn't too happy since Rose was currently being lead around the dance floor with her date.. though the other seemed easy enough.. all was fair game after all.. though their next comments made him sit up a little.. that the attentions .. the desired looks.. and the touching had started before he had even arrived in the building.. he had already chided himself for being late.. this.. this just made it all the more worse.. he would stand suddenly.. startling the young women a little.. he couldn't take it anymore.. he had to stop this.. he had to stop all of it.. downing the remainder of the liquid within the glass before he placed it down upon the table.. rubbing his cheek.. his chin as he weaved his way back onto the dance floor..

but his frustration would only grow as every time he got close.. she'd either be snapped up by another.. or he himself would be guided away . it was such an awkward situation.. and it only made his blood boil all the more.. the lines upon his face grew a little deeper.. he wouldn't be impolite to those that requested a dance.. but he would try so hard to keep an eye on her.. to make sure she was alright.. and then of course for reasons that were all his own.. they were in a room now filled with couples..soft sweetly scented smoke tickled their ankles.. the music was loud enough to vibrate through to everyone's core..if he were of his right mind he might have questioned what was going on.. where did the rest of these people come from.. the restaurant was not this busy ..but his mind was gone.. shot.. foggy as fuck.. that chill continued to snake around him.. the wine kept him warm.. his heart was crying out to him.. his mind was screaming.. and his body was fair on cussing him out.. he kissed the hand of the young lady he had just danced with.. before he went to make his way through the crowd once more.. in her direction.. the sight of her with someone else was killing him.. it would have been easily noticeable upon the rigidness of his jawline.. it was squared out.. his eyes were focused.. but again.. when he got close.. it was like he was in one of those dreams where you would be running and yet the picture would just keep moving further and further away.. he would be spoken to.. asked a question.. it was all distraction .. just like he had done to the waiter earlier.. he wasn't so much seething as he was just growing further and further flustered to it all..

and it wasn't until he caught sight of her being drawn into the arms of another.. the shadows at play.. the smoke.. the fog.. the music.. the darkness.. it looked an awful lot like Dr Rincavornon to him.. its highly possible it wasn't.. it could have been a figment of his imagination.. it could have been a bit of a mind play.. but to him it was clear.. it was obvious.. Oh and there was No way in hell that was going to happen..Fuck No! his shoulders sunk.. his mouth dropped open a little as he weaved through the crowd.. he ignored every single distraction.. every one.. someone actually fainted.. an older woman.. dropped to the floor and someone else called out for a doctor.. fucked if he cared.. not right then.. it was prime technique.. one after the other.. one hell of a test to see if he'd falter.. and he didn't.. he was fuming.. his fists having balled.. fingers curling in.. nails digging crescent marks against his palms as he came up behind this thick haired gentleman.. a few taps to his shoulder.. and when the suitor turned.. questioningly.. wether it was Ric or not.. the image remained.. firm in his mind.. and he clocked that son of a bitch right to the face.. fist.. bone.. nose.. enough to make the guy falter and stumble backwards.. landing in a heap in amongst a few circular tables and chairs.. making enough noise and commotion for it to be Quite a distraction-