Storm blew softly on the drying seal of her letter, walking from the library back to the inn along the coastline. Since she was still with the horse, she decided it best to stay away from Isis Manor, or the busy part of town. Besides, she was not sure that it was appropriate for her to stay there anymore; once again, times were changing.

Walking through the small garden, her grey eyes spot a small bundle of orchards, the familiar flower bringing sudden memories.

"You scared half my life out of me, but I had no where to even begin to start looking for you."

The memory was so quick and sharp, she had to close her eyes to steady herself, before continuing on inside the inn and to her room. Licking her lips softly, she moved to sit at the edge of the bed, before rubbing her eyes harshly with the heel of her hands.

The memories were beginning to destroy her from the inside out.

Not because they were unpleasant.

But because they were so pleasant and bittersweet.

She sighed then, glancing over her shoulder to the head of the bed, already dreading the next series of memories that started to haunt her resting hours.

Tomorrow she would stay with Avery, and then maybe she would do as promised, and go to Yearling Brook. The thought itself was full of enough anxiety to keep her up through the late hours of the dark.

Kiema rubbed at her brows and shook her head, "I do apologize. I will be more concise. He was, at one point, what we have known to call a Sedlaral, though to be honest with you the race is so ancient we barely have stories about them. I cannot give you more of what they are or how they are. Perhaps should Ewan recover then he might say. As of now he ..." the tea arrived and she gives a nod and waits for the servant to leave before continuing while pouring them both cups of tea, "He is in some sort of delirium and weak. If he survives the trip here, I am hoping there will be hope for his survival." but it is a forced dreamlike hope that resonates in her voice, not assuredness.

"Thank you." She said softly as to not interrupt as she wrapped her hands around mug out of habit rather than seeking warmth. She was memorizing each word to look for more meanings later. Some the descriptions of Ewan, his status was really unknown, and his likely hood of survival was slim. "I see." she paused, separating her feeling from logic, so she could better understand the situation without a haze. "Does he need to be transported here? There is no option for a chance to recover...where ever he is at?"

"There is nothing to be done there, and with such proximity to other Sedlaral. I simply do not know what could happen. I know he will die if he stays in Palendies. That is merely a matter of time. " her voice had softened but she does not hedge words, " I wish I had better news. But do not lose heart, yet. We have thought him gone before, and he told us then his Mistress Death was not ready to take him away." a sip of tea to keep from saying what he asked of her upon the field.

She could not help the twitch at the corner of her lips; that was something he would have said. "I appreciate your honesty, it will be remembered." she sighed softly, before also testing the heat of the tea. "So this is his only hope really. When will he cross the portal then? Is there any chance that I can help?"

"I expect he should arrive late tomorrow evening at the earliest. I should be gone by then for other errands call me to haste and leaving soon, I fear." she thought upon the offer, "I do not know, Storm. I don't know what exactly I did, or even how he came to be what he was. There is so much I do not know and I cannot know until he recovers." she gritted her teeth, "Matre noctis, its a cruel circle."

She nodded slightly, grey eyes sober as she takes another sip. It was obvious to her now, that Ewan's survival was not only needed for his life, but also whatever information he could retain. And so the stakes were higher on a survival that was slim. "Sometimes we do not know what is needed until the moment." she offered, not only for Kiema, but for herself. Knowing that she was not the only one with such frustration was bittersweet. "Where is the portal? Perhaps I can wait for them there."

Eyes that were once dark slowly lighten into a deep blue and she smiles in that mix of calm friendliness, "If you go south on the road towards town from this gate, about half a league there is a narrower road that leads eastward. Half a league down that is where the portal opens. Take care in standing too close, though, as those who have not traveled that path before tend to have a poor trip."

"Did you see that one?"

Blond hair whirled around his face as he shook his head. *No, I missed it.* His lips curled downwards as he made his way to sit unceremoniously in her lap.

She almost chuckled, wrapping an arm around him to steady them as they sat upon the grass. "I am sure that another will pass, and you will see him."

They were out spotting birds of all sorts of color in the daylight hours. enjoying the warmth that the sun had to offer. She had a hard time keeping up with his energy; her lack of sleep finally catching up with her as she rested her forehead on the back of his head.

That got a poke to her middle, which in response, she tightened her grip around him, and gently tackled him to the ground. He laughed silently, his blue eyes bright, and it was then that he noticed her eyes were not bright in return. *You look mighty sad, Storm.*

"I am sorry, little one. Someone I care for is very ill." Laying onto her back, she tilted her face so that he could continue to read her lips. "I have been looking out for him."

He frowned slightly, before he quickly stood and started running towards a nearby tree. She frowned slightly, keeping grey eyes on him, but did not stop him. A few moments later, he appeared with a fisted hand. *Give him this, from me.* He raised his hand, holding it over hers.

She glanced down at the small object that he placed in her hands, and it brought something close to a smile, glancing up to him. "I promise I will, thank you Avery."

"Do not go too far, I do not feel like swimming after you." she said teasing, though her grey eyes narrowed at Avery. He was only a couple feet into the water, but she saw his eyes longing for the deeper waters... "I mean it."

He sent her a grin, the water up to his chest. *Come in with me?*

"I do not have anything to swim in." She said with a faint smile, even though the corners of his lips pulled down slightly. "Perhaps next time."

With silent laughter, he reached up to plug his nose and quickly dunk his head in the water, before popping back up again. She chuckled as he continued to entertain himself, before sitting down at the edge of the water, relaxing while continuing to keep an eye out on him.

A half hour past by before he walked up the shore towards her, a mischevious glint in his eyes before he tried to pounce his wet body on her. Laughing, she quickly tried to roll away, before he grabbed her from her backside and held on for dear life as she wriggled. "You're bloody wet and cold!" She practically cringed as he let go, silent laughter continuing as she glanced down at him. "Now how can I visit my friend when I am soaked to the bone?" Which she wasn't in the least bit.

*Give him a hug?*

She chuckled, "I just might."

"That should be the last of it." She muttered under her breath, rearranging clothes on the floor. The inn looked nearly untouched, most of her belongings back into the pack she brought so many weeks ago. She started to fold her clothing, finding the repetition an easy way to soothe her thoughts, placing each folded article of clothing into the pack.

She frowned slightly then, when she came upon a tunic that was far too long in the sleeves and torso for her.

Because it wasn't hers.

Her eyes blinked rapidly, willing the tears to go away as she lifted Ewan's tunic up for closer inspection. Dark in color, probably green, a finger trailed down it slightly, the familiar fabric drawing those tears closer to their edge.

"I see the abyss before me. I could not love you as well as I do and let you walk toward it with me."

She very slowly started to fold the shirt, not noticing the small trail of tears until they appeared as dark spots on the folded shirt. She raised a hand to wipe away the tears that had threatened her ever since she saw him in the Inn earlier in the evening. She did not shed them because of the conversation they had; that had put many of her anxieties to rest.

It was the proclamation of love that brought tears; love that he felt could not be fulfilled because of obstacles.

Which that of course, brought a new series of questions into her mind. Some she would wrestle with still, some she would have to ask him. Pondering these, she set aside his shirt to not place inside of her pack "I need boxes." she said absently, her voice holding a rougher edge due to the emotions she was allowing to be expressed. She went back to the task of folding her own clothing, letting her mind wander from the eventful night to the things of tomorrow. She was going to go visit that home with Lydia, somewhere near the Marketplace, she had said.

She closed her pack, knowing that this was going to be her last night here regardless, before glancing at the freed tunic. A few boxes indeed.

"Stay where I can see you, Avery."

He rolled his eyes, but plopped down on the grass in front of the house, finding that playing with his wooden figures on grass worked just as well as running around with him.

Sure that he was going to stay put, she focused her attention back on the wood. Putting the top of a nail between her teeth, she forced the legs of the chair in the correct position that she had intended, wrinkling her noise as it was uncooperative, "Bugger it." She mumbled with the nail sticking out from between her lips. Not that she minded the light sheen her day's work outside had given her, or the satisfying ache in her arms.

It was certainly better than the ache in her heart.

Once she was pleased with the result, she took the nail out of her mouth, moving it into position, before hammering it down. She continued, varying from putting nails in between her teeth, moving the rosewood, or hammering nails into place. Only once has she missed the nail and it her thumb, crossing her eyes and putting pressure on the sore until she could continue on. Once she completed the legs on the chair, she moved it to join the others, standing to hear her knees protest. She shifted her weight to her right side then, studying her handiwork, "I need something else.." she said absently, before looking over her shoulder to the boy. "Want to go into the Marketplace for a bit?"

Having caught his attention, Avery's bright blue eyes looked up at her, *Are you not going to see your friend today?*

She nearly winced, trying to force the oncoming images of sharp green eyes away, "I doubt it, little one." She answered honestly, though her brows came together. When was she going to speak with him again? Probably when he would tell her what he was thinking, if he really wanted what he had said. And how long would that be? Days? Weeks?... maybe longer? She had to close her eyes, knowing full well that she had to respect his use of time, even if it was breaking her heart into more pieces.

She then placed a smile of her face, trying to clear to worry from her grey hues, "Just going to be you and me for while, you mind?" While he shook his head, she walked towards him to give him a hug, lifting him off the ground in to process, knowing she would hear laughter if he could give it.

The hug was not only for his sake.

"Come along then, so this time when Erin comes to visit, we can give her something to sit in."

"What is this?" Janet asked flatly when Storm opened the door for her. In her hands was an unfolded poster with a picture of Storm on it; the posters around the town that she was joining in the auction.

"Please, come inside." She said dryly, though her grey eyes had hints of humor as the Scathach breezed past her through the door.

Amber eyes made a quick sweep of the empty living room to her left, "Nice digs." And then her eyes caught on the mosaic mirror, walking towards it, "I never took you as someone needing a reflection of themselves in every room."

Storm rolled her eyes, though she knew the Scathach had an odd sense of language.. and humor, "It was a gift I received yesterday.. you wouldn't happen to know from who, would you?"

Janet practically snorted, "I hardly know a thing about yer friends." which wasn't true, but she shrugged just the same, moving her gaze from the mirror to the Air, "But nah, I dunno who it's from."

A faint sigh, Storm shrugged herself, and started towards the kitchen, "Can I get you anything?"

The Scathach shook her head, "No, I'm not stayin' for long. I just needed to ask you a few things." She unceremoniously sat down in a rosewood chair, waiting for Storm to take a seat before handing the poster over, "What is this?"

Storm glanced at it, but did not take it, "Some sort of silent auction. People volunteer to be auctioned off, all the funds going towards Kitty's clinic center. I think the person who wins the auction gets to spend twenty-four hours with the person they bought." another faint shrug.

Janet laughed, folding the poster back up, "I hope you don't come to regret this."

She raised a hand to rub the back of her neck, "Me either." she mumbled, before clearing her throat, her hand dropping back into her lap, "I figured that no one is really going to bid on me, so come the last week I'll bid on myself." a faint grin.

"Ya never know." Was all that Janet said, before pulling out another small stack of papers from a pocket, "And what about these?"

Storm frowned slightly, the paper looking somewhat familiar, but what it was did not register, "I actually do not know what that is."

Janet raised a brow, before smirking, "I'm not surprised, you've probably never read this." She flipped a few pages idly, "Ever heard of Marco Franco?"

"Yes." The idea was dawning on her, and she looked towards Janet skeptically, "Really now, you believe everything you read in there?"

"It has more truth than you think. I suppose if I was written about by someone, I would want to know what it says." more casual flipping of pages.

Grey eyes narrowed, "I do not want to read it."

"Why didn't you tell me?" Janet said abruptly, closing the pages together.

Storm was going to ask what she was talking about, but she already had a good idea. She was quiet for a few moments, before deciding a change of conversation was in order, "He's here."

A slightly irritated, confused look came to her face, "Who? Ewan? I know he is."

"No, not him. Assadar."

"Oh, I did not know that." Not that she knew much of his cousin in the first place.. other than his disliking for her, "Well," She looks to the window again, "I have been making my own furniture, but the process is slow, so..." A small shrug, before looking back to him, "How are you?" Even though she knows his answer.

"Well, thank you. And you and Avery?" He looked about, "He's not with you today?"

His mentioning of Avery had her eyes lighting up slightly, though she shook his head, "No, not until later tonight. Not that he likes to play with me, as someone gave him a toy boat the other day." No curious look there, "But I am fine, thank you.

"Toy boat is it?" He revealed nothing in the question, but continued, "Many a fine adventure to have with one of those, and not even needing to leave home."

Taking his answer as it was, she smiled slightly, "Yes, says he owns a fleet of them now." She brushes a curl away from her face, "And what brings you to the Marketplace?"

"My usual stroll through town to see how things are going." He answered nonchalantly, and then changed the subject back, "Speaking of mysterious gifts, we seem to have an extra horse in the stables at Yearling Brook. Now, I know you brought it, but there's something that we cannot puzzle out." He eyed her suspiciously and waited to see if she asked what.

Remembering her horse, she simply raises a brow, "Oh?" Not that she was surprised.. that horse had more personality than most people.

"What is his name?" He grinned, "We keep calling him lad, but he snorts and stamps and gives us quite a fit with that."

Her curious look fades as she could not help but return the grin. "Oh, it's Vardamir. He was a gift to me.. but, well, you know that I cannot ride horses.. well, I can now, just not well." She chuckles slightly, "I hope he serves you well, he was very good to me."

He bowed his head, "Vardamir suits him, I think. Thank you, I shall do my best to keep him safe." His expression fell a moment with a thought to Zesperis and his friends, but then he found a smile. "Well, I do not wish to detain you further from your shopping." He gave a nod to the store window she had been observing previously, "That's a fine merchant according to Gaerwyn. He said a bit pricey but good craftsmanship."

She didn't know if she wanted to smile, or look saddened by his departure. so she looks over her shoulder until she knew she could keep her face pleasant, "I will keep that in mind." A half-smile.

He bowed his head slightly and as he turned to go, called over his shoulder, "Give my best to Avery and tell him to lift lightly on the toy boat's main mast. There's a surprise inside." He felt slightly wicked at leaving on that note, but also enjoyed it as he disappeared in the crowd.

Her pleasant, half-smile slowly faded into another look a mild shock.. it seemed to be on her face more often as of late. Finding words at a loss she walked him disappear into the crowd, "Take care, Ewan." She said softly, knowing that a soft breeze would carry her words over the crowd to his ears. She then turned back towards the table, before deliberately walking inside, mumbling, ".. fancy that."

She would get a good price on that table if it took her all afternoon.. and she was going to figure out how to repay Ewan for his.. gifts.

"Oh, nice catch." She grinned slightly as Avery's eager hands caught the soft, large ball. He pulled back his hand, and wildly threw the yellow ball back at her, clapping his hands in excitement. Even though it was no where near her, she moved across the short grass from her yard, to bend down to grab it, and repeat the process.

Ewan walked up the lane and clapped as well, "That's it lad, make her run for it!" He teased and stopped just at the edge of the home's yard.

She was just about to throw it back to Avery, before the familiar voice caught her attention. Her lips twitched slightly. Avery of course, found that comment funny, as breathy laughter exited his lips. She then threw the soft ball at Ewan, harder than she would at Avery, and letting the air part for the ball to give it more movement than if it was just her strength alone. It was large and soft, so she didn't doubt he would catch it before it reached his head.. but she could hope.

He ducked slightly, but his hands went up to catch the ball, and when he had, he shook one hand then the other as he went forward, "Ouch..." he grinned to Avery and waggled his brows, "Guess she didn't think that was funny, hm?" But he smiled to Storm and kissed her cheek, "Good day for playing catch."

His blue eyes were bright as he snickered, learning that face from Storm, nonetheless. She chuckled softly, leaning into the kiss to her cheek, "It is indeed." She offered him a cheeky smile, before glancing down at Avery. Though the scene was amusing, he was looking to Ewan curiously. She bent down to her knees so that she could look at him face to face, "Avery, do you remember my friend that I tell you about?" She nodded over to Ewan, "His name is Ewan." She then leaned close to him, to whisper in his ear. Avery's face went from curiousity to smiles, as he stepped forward and stuck out a small hand, *Thank you for my boat, Mister Ewan.* He mouthed up and slow that that Ewan could read his lips.

Ewan signed as well as spoke his words, "You are very welcome, young master Avery." Then he took the small hand and gave a shake, before signing again, "I hear you are the admiral in command of many ships of the line, now." He crouched down, but did not crowd the boy, letting Avery feel able to step away if uncomfortable.

Surprised that he could read sign, his blue eyes brightened as he nodded, *Yes, my boat runs the entire fleet.* He signed with absolute confidence, *And Storm said that I could take it to the big water sometime soon.*

Storm stood up from her kneel, knees making their usual protest as she watched the moving hands, I didn't know you could sign.' she muttered, "Could of asked for your help long ago."

Ewan grinned up at Storm, and gave a wink, then signed back to Avery and spoke the words as well, "Storm's a little upset I didn't share my secret with her about being able to sign. Women." He signed and rolled his eyes as if Avery would understand, but he went on. "Be careful by the big water. The ships can get a mind of their own. But you've got help. I hear fair breezes go wherever she does." He nodded back towards Storm before he also rose to stand and answered her, "I know many different silent ways to communicate. I should show you some." There's a slightly wicked look to his green eyes.

Her grey eyes only narrowed at the wink, but a corner of her lips started to curl up. Avery of course, did not understand the 'women' comment, but Storm did, and only rolled her eyes in return. "I am sure you should." Her lips twitch again, before she grinned, looking back down to Avery, "Perhaps Ewan would like to play some catch before we head on inside?" Avery nodded happily, looking up to Ewan, *Please?*

Ewan kept his attention moving as they reached the Marketplace. As the area began to start its change from the hustle and bustle of commerce to the lighter enjoyment of the evening's entertainment, it was also the time when more pickpockets and such were about to make a last score. It was not just eyesight, it was a sense of know where he was, and the presense of others around him, the natural flow and not natural flow. It all came into play as they arrived. "Avery seems to enjoy his school and classmates there. It is good to see that the arrangement is a positive one."

"Hmm, yes, I am thankful that you directed Phen to me. It has been a very positive influence on him." Hands in her pockets, her pace was easy and fitting to his as she takes a quick glance around those within the Marketplace, "It has taken him time, but he is able to enjoy people's company again, regardless of gender."

"That makes for good hearing." He nodded, "He did seem fairly comfortable in my presence." A quick glance around as they came to a point of choosing right or left to search more stalls, "What kind of plants are we getting again? It's a little late to be planting fruits, unless you're going to wait until next year's season for a harvest."

She offered a sheepish grin, "You know, I just want something that will look.. pleasant. I never have had an opportunity to have a garden of any sort.. but then again, I am not known for having a green thumb." An ironic smile.

He laughed, and placed a hand on the small of her back as he directed her to go right, "Well, this will be fun. I have not planted something in, oh, several years now. My mother has a garden though, and she keeps it still." He nodded to a non-descript man on his passing by, and continued, "I suppose something easily cared for would be good. Want it to be fragrant at all?"

she chuckled, turning right as he directed her. "Does she? I have heard that it is relaxing for some people." She started to glance towards the different arrangements of greenery, "Sure, as long it is a pleasant one." She flashed him a smile, "Do you enjoy planting?"

It was a noncommittal shrug of one shoulder and he stopped to look over some climbing roses, "I do not think I can really answer that with any conviction. On a hot day I can tell you that I sincerely do not like planting." He grinned to her and gave a kiss to her cheek, then asked, "Do you even like roses?"

She leaned into the kiss, also peering at the climbing roses, "I enjoy them, yes, but I would not say they are my favorite. They were never seen around alot back at home. I really like smaller flowers, like gardenias."

"Ahh, yes," And he gave a smile to the merchant and moved on as he added, "I've not be particularly fond of roses myself. Then again, I doubt many would find my favorite plant all that appealing, but the shape of the flower is so amazing." He stopped at a merchant just a bit further on, "Here we are." Gardenias as well as peonies and wallflowers in a variety of vibrant colors, "Any of these take your fancy?"

She stopped, letting her grey eyes roam over her choices, "I would like to buy some gardenias, even if I do end up killing them." A light chuckle, before tilting her head slightly and pointing to some peonies with light pink petals and a butterly yellow center, "What of those?" She glances up to him, "And what is your favorite plant?"

"Now, no talk of that. Start with positive thoughts. New home, possibly new ability to keep plants alive." He motioned to a few of the small pots of gardenias that looked healthier than the others, "They are pink, but if pink peonies are what you want, we shall have them." He motioned to a few more, "My favorite plant is the bleeding heart." He paid for the plants and picked up the wooden crate that held the several pots to move easily up onto his shoulder for carrying. As he turned and asked, "What else do you need?" He spied one of the auction posters and chuckled, "I forgot to ask, how is the auction going?"

She laughed lightly, slanting him a look, catching the word 'we', "I so happen to like pink flowers." She offered teasingly, before her eyes narrowed as he bought them. But rather than stirring up trouble, she offered a thankful smile, "Thank you... and I do not think I have ever seen a bleeding heart.. though it's name makes me a bit apprehensive." At the thought of the auction, she rolled her eyes, "It's... going. Janet decided to bid on me so I do not feel bad when no one else does." She paused, another type of flower catching her eye, "What about tulips?"

She straighted her knees, idly scratching her cheek and smudging the warm ivory paint unknowingly to her face, "Suppose I'll move to the top now." She flashed him a quick grin, before moving towards the paint and dipping her brush into it. Once satisfied, she raised herself to one of the top corners, using her gift to reach and hold herself in place. Since they were painting the empty living room, they did not need to worry of moving objects around; start with the easiest.

He tilted his head up as she floated to reach the high places and smirked, "I suppose I will not have to worry about you reaching things on top shelves." He continued painting where he was as he made progress along the baseboards. He sat while he worked to keep the brush steady.

Faint glowing eyes moved down to him, and she laughed softly, "No, it is usually not much of a problem." A practiced hand gave smooth motions, blending with the paint she had started midway on the wall, " do hope I do not drip paint on you the way I did Erin." She said casually, peering down to see if he would move or not.

He scooted aside, but also one shoulder lifted in a shrug, "If you do, you do. I will have to wash up afterwards anyway, as I think I have had a few brushes with paint myself." His work was steady and he made good progress, "How are your friends?"

"That is a good question." She said with a faint smirk, lowering herself to redip her brush, before going back up, trying to work around Ewan, her strokes long and fluid, "I started to have a conversation with Lydia in the Inn yesterday a few hours before you came by. She was saying that she was doing well, but it is obvious she is not." She frowned slightly, "Not that I had an opportunity to get much more, because this man - Harold, I think is his name, made a great huff at Lydia, and she left. And then he had the nerve to get made at me." She wrinkled her nose, "He was ease dropping in the first place."

"Harold? Well, I am certain there is more than one Harold around town, but there is a Harold, Harry, I know that frequents the inn." He could not keep a low, brief laugh at bay, "Harry has good intentions, but he does have a fix everything attitude that sometimes causes difficulties. He's a good fellow all in all. I am sorry to hear Lydia is not doing well. I am supposed to be working a trade for some extra clothing she has in stock so she can make room for the new fall...collection?" Not precisely familiar with fashion terminology.

"Harry, yes.. I believe that is what Erin called him. He got upset with me because I did not push Lydia to tell me what was wrong. And if he thinks that was going to work, he sure felt bad when all she did was walk away. I have learned to not push people, it usually only makes matters worse." A sidelong glance down to him, "Though I suppose that is not true in all cases." She moved over to the other corner, "A trade?" She asked, inquiring for more.

He caught her meaning about "in all cases" and narrowed eyes up at her teasingly. But his expression eased to its natural unreadable state, and he nodded, "I really need to speak with her again, now that she might again. She always seems on edge around me. I am not the most intimidating personality, but I am always afraid I am going to say the wrong thing around her." He was obviously starting to just speak about things that had bothered him before openly with her, "I suppose because it matters to me that she, of your friends, approves of me." He looked back up at her and then, not thinking an answer was necessary, he moved along his way until the baseboard was finished and he started on the greater portion of the walls.

"Hmm, I can understand how you would feel that way.. with her being on edge around you." She offered casually, going back down to dip her brush, and giving him a tender kiss to his cheek, before moving back up, "She is a.. " she frowned slightly, " .. shy and flighty person sometimes. As for approving of you... "Her voice trailed off, again going into thought, "She certainly seemed pleased that we are back together. In fact, I really cannot think of anyone whom does not approve."

He smiled at the kiss to his cheek, knowing that in the process some of the paint had traveled to his own face. He did not mind nor brought any attention to it. He did, however, say, "Probably because they just want you to be happy, and for some strange reason I guess I make you happy." He flashed a cheeky grin up to her, "These days have really brought me back to myself, Storm. I feel...centered again." It was a thank you without the words, but he was rather sure she understood that.

Her eyes narrowed at his cheeky grin, but she laughed softly anyway, "You know, I am sure that it is not as strange of reasons as you think.... you are a mighty charming fellow. Her smile takes a faint wicked twist, before it softens at his other remark, "I am glad that I could offer that to you, Ewan... help to guide you back to yourself." Knowing that he would understand her words, she paused in her painting.

He, too, paused in his painting, and it was a moment without words. Simple understanding. He gave a smile, an honest, true smile. Then went back to work, and asked, "How many rooms are we painting? All of them?

"No, I do not think so." A cool, gentle breeze moving to the both of them from the window, picking up the few stands of hair that wasn't pulled back, "I think I want some color in the other rooms, and this is the only color I picked out today. I could not make up my mind." Her own cheeky grin.

He had to laugh, "Too many choices?" Then another jest, "What, no red?" He cringed and thought of himself in a red room, then shook his head. This was not his house.

She chuckled and slanted him a look as she moved on to another wall, "Though they had more colors of red than I have ever seen, I most certainly do not want a red room. I cannot see how that would make anyone feel comfortable. But yes, there were too many choices."

"Does Avery get to pick out the color of his room or is staying the same?"

"Oh, I will let him pick his color, so long as it is not completely outrageous." Another trip down to get more paint onto her brush, "I will take him to the Marketplace the next time I see him."

He nodded and continued on with the work of the room. His thoughts roamed over what still had yet to be done, not just here, but other places.

He stands back from the wall and contemplates her question, "Oh, I do not know, perhaps...this?" And he turned to try and brush the paint brush down the exposed part of her arm.

"Ewan!" Though she wasn't quick enough to completely move away from the attack on her arm, her left hand reached up with the brush, aiming for a stroke down the side of his face and neck, laughing.

He felt the cool stickiness of the paint coat his cheek and neck and he laughed as he took up a dueling stance, "En gaurde!" He brandished the paintbrush as sword.

Grey eyes bright with humor, she took her usual stance, mimicing him in his stance of the brush becoming a sword. Taking the first step forward, she lunges slightly forward, aiming for his soft middle to her right. He stepped only slightly to the side so the brush came close and he brought his brush down towards her arm. She wrinkled her nose as she felt more of the paint on her arm, but she twisted her body, hoping to grab his brush with her other hand.

He paused and her hand circled his brush, his own free hand went to seek her brush hand intending to hold it. She eyed him as they both had grips on the paint brushes. Holding each tightly, she tried to maneuver herself so that both brushes could aim at him, but the movement was incredibly awkward, and she started another fit of laughter, now trying to wiggle the brushes free from him.

He certainly wasn't letting go but he tried to pull her closer to him as she struggled with the brushes and he whispered, "We are making a mess." He tried to bring her closer, "And we should get washed up." He did not hide his looking over her to the marks of paint and beyond. He had appreciation for her as any man would, but his was a little more obvious.

Once he started to pull her closer, she stopped the struggling, but still continued to hold onto the brushes. Her grey eyes narrowed slightly, not knowing if he was being serious or trying to con her into letting go. The look in his eyes though, had her letting go, and slight color to her cheeks, "Did I win?" She asked in a breathy whisper, looking to his half-painted face.

"Oh, I think you definitely did." He smiled, his grip only slightly relaxing. There was no other intent in him but to kiss her, and kiss her he did without reservation, and if she took her revenge now it was worth the price to taste her.

She returned the kiss warmly, the thought of seeking revenge off into the far corner of her mind - well, almost. She let the kiss linger, nibbling on his bottom lip for just a moment. He was going to let her decide when to break the kiss because he was thoroughly content to keep his mouth moving over hers, feeling his pulse race and the heating of the blood in his veins.

She held the kiss for a few moments longer, before slowly pulling away. Hazy eyes and pinkened lips from their attention brought a slow, smug smile to her lips, "Hmm, I think that is revenge enough." A finger slowly trails the paint from his cheek, over his jaw and down to the base of his neck.

A tremble ran down his spine and out over his body, "I rather like that revenge, but, we should get cleaned up, and I know there is no point in offering to help you with that endeavor." He stayed close to her and smiled, "Shall we stop by the inn tonight and see what mayhem is happening?"

She only offered a slightly wicked smile to the first suggestion, or lackthereof, "The inn, with you?" A teasing look of ponderance over her face, "Love to." leans to give him another kiss, though this was was quick.

He smiled after the kiss, "Then I will go get cleaned up at the Water's Edge tavern and meet you there say in an hour's time?"

A quick glance down, just to see exactly how much paint she had gotten on her, before offering a smile, "I'll be there."

Once she was sure that he was going to hold it in place, she moved gather a few nails, absently sticking a few between her teeth - perhaps not lady like, but it was efficient. Determining the angles, she picks up the hammer, takes a nail from her teeth and places it at the correct angle to hammer the wood into the back board. She then repeated the process on the other side, her grey eyes narrowing at the wood's angle between the side, "Hmmm, might be better to have some glue for this." She muttered.

He simply smiled as he watched her work things through in her mind only moving when it seemed best to do so, but always keeping the board steady.

At his silence, she gave him another look, before standing, "I have some in the house." And with that, she turned on her heels and walked inside, into the kitchen where she remembered placing it, before walking back outside. She sat back down, twisting the cap to reveal a small brush that dipped inside, giving him another look, "I suppose I should have done this first."

"It will all work out in the end." He offered with a grin and wondered how she was going to glue after the board had been nailed, but he just observes quietly and tries to assist.

She just started to laugh again, her thoughts along the same lines, "You would think I could keep my wits about me with you being here." She leaned slightly, placing one of her hands on the other side of the board as she blew softly on the other side, trying to see if there was just enough room to sneak the brush and let glue drip down, "Nope." She said with a small sigh, setting the glue down for the hammer, now working on taking the nails out, "I did not give myself room for error.. I am usually more alert to what I am doing." She offered with a quick grin.

"My apologies. Maybe I am more harm than help." Still he had a grin, "Perhaps it would be better if I turned my hand to another task around the house."

"Well, I'm sure your talents have, and could help with many tasks around the house, I would rather look foolish and you keep me company." Once she had undone the nails, she waited for him to let go so that she could begin to put the glue on it. But just as she was about to open the glue, she paused, looking to him, "Of course, I could continue this another time if you have places to be soon."

"I will have to leave in time, but I can at least help you along your way. Or do you have another task for me?" Brows rose slightly with the question as he lifted up the board so she might place the glue.

A small shake of her head, as she untwisted the glue so that she could run the brush over the side of the board., "No, I have no task for you other than to love me." She replied cheerfully, sneaking a glance towards him.

"Not a task at all, most decidedly a pleasure, though you may have taken on more than you bargained for with such as me." He smiled, "But if you are willing to take me on, and I am more than happy to love you as long as you let me." He watched the gluing so he might move the board back in place when she was ready.

"Good, because I plan on letting you do so for quite some time." A sweet smile, before she placed the brush back in the container, before helping him move the board back into place. Once she was satisfied, she picked up the hammer and nails, before repeating the process of nailing with precision.

The hammering beginning again, he was careful of keeping the board steady as well as keeping his hands clear, "Avery coming home this weekend?"

"Hmm, yes.. tomorrow, actually." Once satisfied, she moved on to another board, turning it so that she could start to place the glue on the correct sides, "I told him that we could go see some certain falcons, if possible." A sidelong grin to him, before looking back to what she was doing, "Perhaps a chance for him to put his boat the 'big waters,' as he calls it."

"All a very good idea." A low brief laugh, "I will inform the falconer to expect a young guest sometime the next few days. He is a good fellow, but likes to know something about guests in advance so he can have his birds in what he calls a good humor." His smile remained as he helped her with the next board.

She chuckled, "I would appreciate that, considering I do not want to have to harm any of the birds if they rub him.. or me the wrong way." A quick grin, one that did not show if her words were true or not. She then judged the distance again, helping him to move the board, before taking the nails and hammer to it, "I think tomorrow we might go and pick out the color for his room, and paint it as well. Any of that interest you?"

"I would love to join the adventure. As to the birds harming the lad, that I doubt. More they would simply be alarming to him in their insistence of taking to flight to go hunt." The adjustment of his board and the completed nailing he sighs, "I regret I need to finish up some of my errands about town. I will try to look for you later, but if not I will see you on the morrow?" A hopeful question.

"You are probably right, but birds of all kinds, can be very fickle." Relaxing in her stance once the board was set in place to look over to him, "I will probably stay inside for the rest of the day.. but, you could always.. stay here, if you'd like."

He smiled and stepped forward to take her hands in his as he pressed a kiss to her cheek, "I'll come back by later tonight then. Walk safely, beloved."

She leaned into the kiss to her cheek and smiled, "Safe travels, Ewan."

At the change of subject, his features showed that he happily agreed, shifting a little closer to Ewan and bringing the boat along, *How do we check?*

Ewan let him keep the boat in hand, but pointed at the three masts, starting with the one close to the front, "This is your foremast and it's not as heavy as your main mast." He pointed to the second mast in the middle. "Both are looking sound...your main mast is the most important to make sure it stays in good shape. This last one is your mizzenmast."

After Ewan pointed out each and gave them names, he brought the boat up to his eyes for closer inspection, *I think some paint is on the... mizzenmast, is that bad?* He gave the boat for Ewan to see, and there was the slightest stroke of light blue-green; Storm could not contain her chuckle.

A slow shake of his head, "No, not truly, unless you want to pretend that barnacles have somehow started to grow on the wood of the mizzenmast. We'll have to work the crew hard to get them free and shape up the wood damage beneath."

He seemed to ponder this greatly, before turning his eyes to Storm, *Storm, come and help us get the barnacles off of the.. mizzenmast!* She grinned at the pair of them, "Oh, but Captain, someone must watch the goods." Nodding to Ewan's shirt and the other folding clothing next to her.

Ewan eyed Storm and then looks to Avery, "What's the crewmate's position on this ship?"

He looked to Ewan, not quite sure what he meant by 'position', *..to take orders from the captain?*

"Is she the navigator? The carpenter? Able seaman? Midshipman? No matter, she is to take orders from the Captain. You should set a suitable punishment for her for insubordination." A wry smile, he corrected the last word, "For disobeying."

"Ewan!" She said, grey eyes narrowing. Avery though, found that to be a perfect idea, and so he moved slightly so that his back was facing Storm so she could not see his signing, *Maybe you should make her come in?* He let out more silent laughter.

Ewan stood and saluted his Captain, "Aye, aye, Captain." And with direct purpose marched to Storm and stopped to announce, "The Captain has said you are to come in. Do you so willingly or no?" He looked as serious as the day is long, but there's that teasing light to green eyes.

She did not miss his humor, but her eyes narrowed even more, her pupils nearly slits, "Do not think of taking another step closer, Corinsson." She was doing her best to keep a straight face, "I am not dressed for the waters."

"Captain is being very fair with you, and you continue your insubordination. I must comply with his wishes." He tried to sweep in swiftly to grap her about the waist with every intention of throwing her over his shoulder, but he wonders how far he'll get with her gift at her beck and call.

She considered bringing using her gift to save her.. but where was the fun of that? Not to mention she had never used her gift against him.. and she did not plan to. Ever. So she was scooped and thrown over his shoulder, laughing as she felt the wetness of his shoulder through her vest, "Ewan!" She knew that she was doomed for the water, but she was not going down without a fight. So, she starting to squirm, failing her limbs about; booted feet trying to aim for his trim middle, though she could not see what she was doing since she was looking at his back.

"She's a fiesty one, Captain!"Ewan smiled to Avery as he struggled to try and keep Storm upright, and he near stumbled as a knee knocked him along the ribs send air out of his lungs in a blast. But he was close to the water now, and he marched in deep enough so when he cast her off over his shoulder she would land in deep enough water not to hurt herself.

Avery was so involved in watching, that he nearly forgot that he was the captain! He clapped as he watched Storm being taken against her will, "I'll show you fiesty." She muttered under her breath, knowing that it would hit his ears. She tensed as she heard him enter the water. Just as Ewan was casting her over his shoulder, she tried to make a wild grab for one of his arms, in slim hopes to drag him into the water also.

And down he went, if she was willing to not use her gifts, as he knew she chose not to, then he could choose to join in the fun and Avery's apparent entertainment, and not twist free. He flailed out arms to look like he was caught off guard, but all the while very sure of where his body was moving in relation to Storm so as to not harm her.

She came up sputtering because she was laughing so hard, "Oh, it's bloody cold!" She raised a hand to brush her wet hair from her face, the sleeves of her white tunic revealing her bronzed skin beneath. Luckily, her dark green vest kept her chest and middle from being exposed. Avery grinned, before moving towards Storm, dragging the boat with him, *See, there are barnacles on my boat.* He pointed to the small paint on the mast.

Ewan floated for a bit with a wild wide grin and just rather pleased with the outcome. Storm casted a look over to Ewan, one that could have been read as 'I will deal with you later," before looking at the boat, "And how am I, but a crewmate, going to these barnacles off?" Avery having no answer, shifts his blue eyes to Ewan for help.

"Scrub, missy." He grinned to Storm, "Take up the stones of the deck swabbing and get them off."

"Scrub, of course." She splashed some water his way and rolled her eyes dramatically, before moving a little to more shallow water so that she could sit up and well... carefully pick the paint off of the last mast. Satisfied that his boat was being taken care of, he looked to Ewan, *Will the boat be ready when Storm is done?*

He gave a nod, "I think so. Everything looked to be well in order." He rolled over so that his hands touched the bottom and pulled himself forward through the water to Storm and offered her a slender broken shell with a grin, "Would this help?"

She gave him a sidelong glance, and unceremoniously plucked the broken shell, "Perhaps." She paused though, and looked to him, her expression sweet, "Do not look so smug, Ewan." She teased with a quick grin, before using the shell to easily take the paint off the mast and offering it to Avery, "Here you go, Captain." He readily took the boat back, before looking to Ewan, *Where shall we sail to?*

Ewan was still grinning at Storm and moving closer so his face was within inches of hers, but then blinked and looked to Avery, "You're the Captain, sir. Tell us where we sail." And then tried to steal a kiss from Storm.

When he was inching closer, she felt her heart skip a beat, to catch Avery's sign. She would have chuckled, but the kiss was much more appealing, her lips instead curling against his. Avery only wrinkled his nose again, and pretending to ignore what he saw, *I think we shall sail into the unknown.*

The salty but pleasurable kiss was broken so catch the last of the signs, "Unknown is it? Always a good place. Must have excellent provisions, though. Eating a lot of fish." He grinned.

She turned her head to rest her cheek against his chest, enjoying the steady sound of his heartbeat, "That is a possibility, yes, but I think a little bit of happiness now is good for both Lenkia and Lina." She sighed softly, peering over as Avery placed the boat into the hole he had dug, "Are you warm yet?"

"That's a very complicated question. Warm? Yes. Want to move from this position? Not yet." He sighed and then kissed the top of her head, "But I suppose we must eventually." Reluctantly he moved his arms from about her, letting his hand glide slightly over her hips as he stepped aside and looked to Avery seemingly burying the boat, "Now that's new."

She was going to say that he did not have to move, but he already was, and so she offered a tender smile, before chuckling and also looking to Avery, *The ship has wrecked into a unknown ditch.* He signed to them, before going back to his master plan of freeing the ship. Storm chuckled, before stepping back to where she was seated, her pace easy but in control before sitting down.

He stood some time longer and then drew on his dry tunic, "Those unknown ditches are quite the hazard." He grinned and walked the area, subtly stretching out muscles to keep at the ready and also to let his thoughts roam over the details of preparing for their trip over to Yransea.

Her eyes followed Ewan for a while, before glancing back over to Avery. "How are you going to get it out, Captain?" He grinned, *A hurricane will free them!* She tried to swallow down her laughter, and ended up coughing lightly instead, "I think a hurricane will do more damage, little one."

Ewan stopped his pacing and turned with an amused and dismayed expression, "Aye, captain, a hurricane is not something to be hoping for, and in that hole they cannot hope to escape it. We will have to hold fast for a better option. Though, likely when the tide comes in, the hole will be filled slowly with water and soon enough the ship will be free." He chuckled, "Not as dramatic, of course."

Avery nearly pouted, before sending a hopeful glance Storm's way, *Perhaps the winds will lift them up?* Storm glanced up, as if seriously considering his request, "I am not sure, I think the winds are in need of rest." And just to prove her point, she leaned back to stretch her body out, hands behind her head and she closed her eyes so she could not see whatever Avery was signing, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. Ewan looked to Storm, brows raised with mild amusement, and then he looked to Avery just to see what the child thought of that suggestion.

*Storm?* Avery wrinkled his nose as he realized that she could not see what he was signing. He did not move though and instead grabbed two handfuls of moist sand, and started to form to his mind, a large ball of sand. He looked to Ewan, and grinned, before tossing the sand in Storm's direction, "Oh, hey!" She said, surprised and the sand landed on her forehead, moving all over her face and hair. She turned to her side, eyes tight shut as she tries to remove the sand with her hands.

Ewan turned his head aside so Avery could not see him grin as he held back the laugh, and then he turned to give Avery a slightly admonishing look, "I think a better, and less messy, choice might be something along the lines of tickling. Did you know she was ticklish?" Ewan grinned and tiptoed a little more dramatically for effect over to Storm and dropped down to aim a tickle at her sides.

The sound of approaching footsteps over the sand gave her enough time to curl and bring her knees to her chest before Ewan's ticking fingers came to her sides, "I am n- Ewan!" She gasped, wanting to open her eyes but was sure that more sand lurked there. Still, she peered through one open eye as she tried to defend herself, aiming to bat his seeking fingers away. Avery's silent laughter was accompanied by clapping.

Ewan stopped and leaned over her, "Okay, beloved, I've stopped. Let's get you cleaned up a bit." With gentle fingers he tried to get some of the sand away from her eyes and off her face, particular attention to her mouth -- afterall, sand does not taste particularly good.

With a slight nod, she closed her eye again and slightly flinched as his finger touched her face to get rid of the sand, but only because she did not see it coming. Seeing that he could see where the sand on her face was, she did not get her own fingers in the way of his, "Let me know when it's safe again." She murmured. Avery on the other hand, watched as his boat was picked up by a platform, and set in the water, before a stronger breeze picked up and the boat took off along the shoreline. He stood to chase it, passing the two of them until his hands caught onto his toy.

Being very careful to get as much as he could without harming, he stopped, "I believe I have most of it. Probably will want to rinse a little with water." He stood once more and watched the boy play with his toy boat. After a moment only, he turned for his back to be towards Avery, "Storm, do you worry at all, being so soon upon the changes caused by taking that tablet, of venturing into Yransea? We do not know what will happen to your gifts there. I..." He paused slightly, knowing he was tredding close upon similar issues of trying to protect her from harm, but this time, he was going to let it be her choice -- after he mentions all his concerns of course, "I do not want you to suffer there."

She opened her grey eyes, raising her hand to get the small bits of sand in the corners of them, "Thank you." Though she did stand, walking towards the shore and bending her knees so that she could get a few handful of the water to splash and rub over her face and hairline. She heard his words, but paused to glance over at Avery, "Do not go any farther, Avery." Once satisfied that he would listen, she stood and turned to walk towards him, "I am not so worried about the effects of the tablet, but we have discussed before that there is a chance they my gift will either be little or nonexistent at all." She looked up to his eyes then, "I have accepted that for some time now."

"Well, you are a better person than I then. I think I would feel a little more apprehensive if I suddenly could not do what I was accustomed to doing." But then he offered up a smile, "If you are settled upon the possibility, then all I ask is you let me know if in the reality of it, you are more troubled. I will try to help. I can be good at distracting when given the opportunity." He teased, aimed a kiss to her forehead, and then turned with intention of joining up with Avery in continued sailing adventures.

"I already know what it is like." She offered simply, but nodded to his request that she tell him, "But Ewan," She said gently, reaching to grab his hand before he left to join Avery, "Even if they do work, it is probably not a wise idea to use them, is it?"

He turned as her hand held his and stopped him, "Sorry?" Confused, and then realizing perhaps what she meant, "Oh, well..." He thought on that, his thumb rubbing lightly upon the back of her hand as he held it. "perhaps not, unless it can be done as to offer other explanations. Even Kiema hides who she is in parts of Palendies." He lifted their joined hands to kiss the back of hers.

She nodded again, her lips curling as he kissed the back of her hand, "Either way, the result will be the same." Another reassuring smile, before she stepped forward to join him to go see what Avery is up to this time. He was sitting in the sand, boat upright from sand holding it by the sides, *I'm building a sand castle.* He informed them by the pile of sand he had near him.

Jaw clenched, she was practically seething as she moved towards the home. She ignored the rain that fell harder around her than anywhere else -- in fact, the sound of rumbling thunder above her only drove her forward.

The Abyss, of all creatures, had said that he missed her while he was away. She smirked, almost sneered, before forcing her face to calm. After what he had done, he had the nerve to tell her such a thing. After destroying her home, and people that were near and dear to her.. he had the impudence to approach her, expecting the partnership she established almost a year ago.

Lightning cracked overhead as she threaded through the Marketplace. She very nearly regretted her foolish move then, but it had rid her of the problem. It was a fact that she could not deny.

Even if it made her insides churn.

She licked her lips, tasting the clean rain that had fallen upon them as she turned down her street. Ewan had spoken of seeing the Abyss before him, and here she was with a dark secret she had broken. And she had been punished severely for her choices, so she would continue to do so.

She placed her hand on her doorknob, unlocking the shields around it, before walking into her house, her mood more foul than it had been in weeks as she shut it behind her. She moved directly into her bedroom, not bothering to dry her cloths, and instead changing into dry, comfortable clothing. She then moved towards the living room, where the only item found was the bookcase and the books that rested inside. Cold grey eyes searched until she spotted the one of interest, taking it and moving towards the kitchen. After lighting a few candles, she sat down and started to read, hoping to relax her mind and mood before Ewan came.

"By far and away more have been viewed than performed, though I would like to note that I did have some fame on the stage. The assassin was rather fond of me until I captured him." A twist to his smile.

"Ewan!" She said, the silly grin was accompanied with light laughter as she aimed her freehand for a poke to his middle as they approached the Marketplace, "Your fame means nothing if no one can stand as a witness for you." She was still trying to bottle her laughter.

He sucked in his middle as she poked and he laughed softly, "There were others, too, only I did not linger in their company. I did have a job to do." He teasingly chastised. But music of the Marketplace caught his attention and he stepped out a bit from her and bowed, "May I have this dance?"

Her face still held the grin as she also took a step back and curtsied, the practice from childhood kept her movements looking well-rehearsed, "Of course." She took a step forward, clearing most of the distance between them as she placed her left hand on his shoulder, her right in his. The music was lively, and remembering the steps of their dance months ago, was able to follow him nearly flawlessly. He smiled as they stepped perfectly together through the dances exchanges and lifts, but mostly he liked keeping her close.

The simple pleasure of dancing with him, along with the events of the night, brought out more light laughter from her as their feet moved to the rhythm, "I almost forgot how smooth you are on your feet." Though her smile reflected that she might not have forgotten at all.

"Then we should dance more often." He smiled, though he had caught that little glimmer revealing the hint of falseness to her words. The song ended too soon and he stepped lightly away, but her hand kept in his as he turned her hand over to place a kiss in the palm.

"Aye, that we should." She said, her smile softening as she watched him place a kiss in her palm, "Would you like to stay longer, or head back to the house?" She said, listening as the music shifted to something slower but still with moving melodies.

"I am at your pleasure, my lady. Whatever you will." He smiled as he straightened from the bow and awaited her command.

Her eyes narrowed slightly, "How is it that in asking you a question, I almost always receive one in return instead of an answer.?" She smiled just the same, before reaching for his hand again to start heading for the house, "The performers will play again tomorrow eve.. and the eve after that." A quick grin.

"While a night at your home might not come again?" He teased, but he was more than willing to take her hand in kind and walk towards her house, "As to answering with a question to a question, I will try to be more forthright and give answers."

She simply chuckled, "And once I make a choice, you point reasons for the other." She walked close to give him a soft nudge, before they headed on to her home, "Predictable, he says." Her grey eyes were bright with humor.

Ewan strolled up the lane rubbing at his wrist where he had twisted it a little too far while making his patrols. A pause at the yard, he pulled a weed from the flower bed before he moved on to the door and gave a soft knock.

She was already moving for the door, socked feet silent as she headed for the door, grimacing as she past the the mirror, catching a quick glimpse of blue on her face. She opened the door for him, a thick trail of colorful bruises from her right eye to the corner of her lip, where scabbing was already formed from the cut. Whatever swelling had taken place was nearly gone, as she offered a half smile with the side of her face that was normal, "Well, good day to you." She opened the door wider for him to enter through.

"Swords and arrows, Storm." He murmured as he stepped inside but kept his eyes on her face, "I would say good day in return, but you look like the day came at you with...what, a broadsword?" His fingers moved to lightly trace outside of the line of bruises.

"Actually, that is exactly what it was." Flinching slightly at the light touch of his fingertips as she shut the door behind him. She kept her face slightly facing left so he could examine the marks on her face.

His hand dropped to his side and he sighed, "Well, I suppose it was not truly the day that attacked you. Feeling up to sharing the tale?" He asked as he moved to sit on the couch and hoped she would join him there.

She followed him to the couch, sitting on his right side so that she could lean her good cheek on his shoulder, "Well, the Guardians had a meeting of sorts today, and just as I was going to come home, Kiara decided to cause trouble, demanding a duel. When I refused, she challenged my position as a Guardian, and by law, I have to duel her." She would have smirked, but the mild pain was a quick reminder not to, "And so I dueled her until I broke her collarbone, and she could no longer properly fight, so it was postponed. She did not care for the idea however, and took a swipe at my face instead."

His jaw clenched and relaxed and repeated this during the summary of events until it finally relaxed, "I suppose there are repercussions for her behavior?"

"Yes," she said, shifting so that she could look at his face, "she lost her Guardianship... all because of a foul move." A small sigh and shake of her head, "I do not know what drove her to such a choice, except the great possibility of losing."

"Hmm...that is often a powerful incentive to take a risk." He moved an arm behind her and played the the ends of her hair, "Do you have other hurts?"

She nodded, rolling up her left sleeve to show her forearm, the bruising here is considerably less, "Just a little on my arm, but otherwise I am fine."

"Well, a few days of healing up and rest without further abuse of your body will do you well." His mouth turned down a moment, "I am sorry that such an event happened. It is...a difficult situation at best." Then he smiled to her, "Can I get you anything?"

She shook her head, feeling the tips of her hair brush over his fingers, "Just your company is enough for me." Another half smile at its best, "Though I hope I still do not have bruising by the time we travel to your homeworld."

He could not help but chuckle softly, "Well, it is not as if my mother has not seen a few bruises on me, but it would certainly draw more attention than possibly you would wish. I hope you are looking forward to the trip."

He nodded only marginally so not to disrupt the feel of her fingers in his hair, "Yes, we will be staying at the manor. No doubt they will have a room prepared for you and Avery."

She watched idly the rusty blond color as she glided her fingers through, "Any particular reason we are staying there?"

"My mother's house has no more room? Unless you wish to share a bed with mother and I sleep on a couch." He opened his eyes and smiled to her, observing her expression.

Her hand paused and her eyes narrowed, but she chuckled "Though I am sure I will enjoy your mother's company, I do not think that making her share her bed is a good idea." She leaned forward, her lips touching his very lightly, before she pulled away, her hand continuing through his hair then, "I did not know your mother had no room, is all."

"I know, beloved. I but jest. Gaerwyn built an additional room for Lenika so that he and his son would not have to continue to share. Still, as it is, every bed is full. But it matters not, for the most part when I am in Seansloe I stay in the manor. My room there suits me and is where I belong when in country. It will not trouble you staying in the manor, will it?"

"No, of course not." She shifted slightly closer to him, her fingers twirl a lock of his hair, before her hand goes to her lap, "Why do you have... ah." She answered her own question, a small sheepish grin coming to her features, "Are you required to stay at the manor when you are home?"

His mouth twisted in slight amusement as evidently some recollection answers her first question, but he then gave a brief shake of his head, "I would not say required. I suppose I prefer it."

"Hmm." She leaned her head back onto his shoulder, a hand reaching for his so that she could turn it over and trace random designs on him palm, "Have you considered getting a place of your own there?"

A sound of the negative without hesitation, "There has not been a reason. If I feel a need for home, then I go to visit my mother. Or at least did before she gained a houseful. Otherwise, I live at the manor where I am nearby to those I serve. If I had a house it would simply sit empty for the most part."

"No need to have a place to call your own?" It was a question that she did not expect an answer to, so she let out a soft sigh, "I am sure your mother is enjoying having the house full."

He grinned, "That she is. Her letters are more brief than they used to be, so I suspect she has her hands full with the children and keeping house for more than she has had to since she wed father."

She chuckled softly, her hand ceasing in creating designs along his palm, "Oh, I could understand that. Even with just one, Avery alone can be a handful at times."

He wiggled his fingers at the tingling sensation on his palm after her fingertips stopped their delicate touch, "Mmm, yes, well children each have their own set of challenges. Cannot always make the right choices, but parents do the best they can. You are doing just fine."

The compliment was unexpected, and so she smiled just a little wider than she should, "Thank you." She licked her lips briefly as she felt her smile tug at her cut, "Wise words from someone without children." She said casually.

"Not to say I have not had to play the part." A casual comment, "Though it is not wholly unlike dealing with new recruits. Guidance, help them find their strengths, keep them from being too brash, and then let them go and hope they live through each day."

She slanted a look up to him, even though he could not see it, swallowing down a chuckle, "I have never heard that sort of comparison"

He looks at her with a more sober expression, "We have spoken...well, typically it is when we were discussing the likelihood of us, but...it has been mentioned about children. Would you...would you ever want other children now that you have Avery?" The question was now there and he would face whatever she said.

She lifted her head to look at him more easily, a hint of a smile on her lips, "I think I would. I always wished that I had siblings, but.." A small shrug, "I want to have a family."

There was a slow release of a breath he only vaguely realized he had been holding, "I sometimes wish I had siblings as well, though Gaerwyn was around when I was younger. It was not the same."

She raised a brow faintly at his reaction, but she did not ask, "There were a few children my age that I would play with, but after a certain time, I was too focus on my studies and could not do many things." Another small shrug, "It was the childhood I suppose I was meant to have, but I would not want to have Avery, or any other children I might have, go through the same childhood."

"Unless they chose it?" He offered obliquely, "I chose my life as much as it was chosen for me." Then he decided to let the matter change into a little more light banter, "Naturally, I did not exactly prepare to meet a lady such as you who could lift me up on the nothingness of air and show me the town below. Nor did I prepare to fall in love with a woman who when I came home might have a bruise along her face from putting some insolent guardian in her place." He teased and kissed the top of her head.

She laughed softly, her grey eyes brightening as she reached to twine her fingers with his, "Well, naturally. My kind was only in bedtime stories and folklore." She teased, aiming a poke for his middle, "Though I am not sure if it settles me that I am so different than what you thought a woman you would fall in love with would be." There was some truth in her words, though it was held in a teasing manner.

"Because the past few nights have not be convincing enough, hm?" He teased and then with a sober smile, "How can one think of falling in love with what used to be only make believe? I am," he gave a saucy grin, "and have always been, a rather serious fellow."

She could not help but attempt to snicker as she squeezed his hand affectionately, "You, serious?" She laughed lightly, enjoying their teasing, "It is not that I am not convinced..." She trailed off, paused, before a more wicked glint came into her eyes, ".. or maybe I do need more convincing." Though it was obvious that she did not need it at all.

"Trout, rainbow if I recall correctly." She walked with him to the kitchen, moving towards the icebox and removing a variety of vegetable in wooden containers, "You can cut these." She set three on the counter near him, small carrots, broccoli, and yellow squash, all in separate ones. She pulled out a door, uncovering the proper knife, before setting it by the containers.

He nodded and started with the carrots, being sure to rinse them and then started a quick and precise stroke to take the top layer off and then cut them.

Satisfied that he knew what he was doing, she moved to grab a cast iron pan, before going to the 'stove' as Lydia had said, placing her hand on it, letting it catch fire before setting the pan on top of it. She then opened a clear jar that held a light olive colored oil, pouring some into the pan. Letting it warm, she moved to retrieve the fish from the icebox, already skinned and boneless, also running it under the water before adding it into the pan.

He worked in rhythmic silence each vegetable getting its turn on the cutting board. He had a smile on his face. The good feeling of just preparing dinner on a calm evening, without letting worries eat at him or dance in his mind. He cast them into their corner and only thought of enjoying the time with Storm in the ease of her presence.

The sound of the knife on the cutting board was almost soothing as she opened a cupboard and reached for a few bowls, setting the largest one by Ewan as he continued to chop the vegetables. She took a small one, adding finely chopped herbs and spices and mixing them, before sprinkling about half of the amount over the fish. She frowned slightly, before she remembered and moved back to the icebox, removing a few slices of lemon and squeezing them over the fish, before it was just a matter of waiting. So she leaned against the counter and watched Ewan's back, a small smile creeping to her features.

He noticed a distinct lack of movement behind him and he looked over his shoulder to her with a "what?" expression on his face.

She chuckled softly, before shaking her head to his unasked question, before she turned back to the fish and turned them carefully, the oil sizzling at the movement, "Bloody thing." She muttered as some droplet of oil hit her arm, before she sprinkled the rest of the seasoning on the other side of the fish and squeezed the rest of the lemon slices over it.

He did not turn, but called over his shoulder, "Everything all right there?" He finished the cutting of the vegetables, "What is to be done with these?"

"Yes." She said, and also glanced over her shoulder as she looked to him, "Hmm." She reached for another pan, this one a little smaller and more shallow, lighting the spot next to her and setting the pan over it, "If you get some butter from there," Pointed to the icebox, "and put in the pan, I will start to cook them." Slow smile, "Or I will help you cook them."

He gave her a suspicious look, but did as he was told, getting the butter from the icebox and bringing it over along with the bowl of vegetables, "So, how much butter should I put in?"

She turned around, opened a drawer, and offered him a spoon, "Enough to coat the bottom of the pan... when it melts." She added, glancing to the bowl as she tries to suppress a grin, "Maybe a spoonful or two." She looked back to the fish, turning them over again, this time more careful of the oil inside.

He followed instructions to the letter, "And when do I put the vegetables in?"

"Once the butter has melted." She grabbed a wooden spoon, offering it to him, "And once the vegetables are in.. you know.. just have to move them around every now and then so they do not burn." It's becoming harder to keep her silly grin at bay.

He nodded once and pushed the butter around with the spoon so it melted coating the bottom thoroughly then dashed in the vegetables and pushed them about so they would evenly cook. He crossed his eyes momentarily at the grin he saw trying to take over her mouth.

She laughed lightly, "I am sorry love, I will stop teasing you." She eyed the fish and turned it over again, their color reflecting that they were almost done.

He chuckled, "Thanks."

"Anything for you." She said, as if she had preformed a favor for him, before taking her own spoon and leaning over, stirring the vegetables just because she could.

"I think they turned out nicely. Think he will like them?" Kneeling, she brushed her dirty hands and her already dirty breeches before looking to Avery.

*They are pink and white." He stated, few smears of dirt on his pale face, *Those are girly colors!*

She scowled slightly, "He said that he liked them, and I was told that those are the only colors they come in." Though her grey eyes narrowed slightly, at least she hoped that those were the only colors. He did comment on purchasing the first pink flowers, she recalled, "I think he will like them." She repeated. They were out in the front of their home, observing the newly additions to the garden. There were a few bleeding hearts, smalll in size, but in bloom and alternating colors. She received them from Shawn, the Earth Guardian with the power over such things. He had even charmed them for her, so that they were always in bloom. Once she had seen them, she could see why Ewan would like them so.

*They do look different.* He offered. It was the closest he was going to get to admit liking them. After all, they were pink.

She laughed slightly, and shifted so that she could stand, "Well, lets get clean up. Do not want you to arrive all dirty before sleeping outside with the others." Though he was only bound to get dirty again, "Maybe he will not notice?" She said on a faint smile, already ushering him towards the door.

He grinned, *Ewan notices everything!*

She chuckled and nodded in agreement, before opening the door to head inside.

"Boats his new obsession, is it? I suppose I am to partly blame for that." He followed willingly, and at the nearness of the bed, walked around to his side and fought the desire to drop unceremoniously on to it, and instead sat and unlaced the boots so he could lay down and rest back against the comfort of the bed.

"I do not think it is a new obsession, I just think you helped guide him towards it more." She gave a soft smile, reaching to untie her cloak and hang it on the back of the door as he settled onto the bed. She walked to the bed, reaching for one of his hands, "I did not realize you were tired, dear one."Grey eyes studied his face more for the signs of weariness as she reached for one of his hands, "Is there anything I can do for you?" Concern started to etch her brows as she brought his hand up to give it a kiss in its palm.

He curled his hand around the kiss placed there just a moment, the cradled her cheek in that same hand. "No, I do not think so. It feels good to be here with you." He let his hand slide down her neck and shoulder following her arm until he drew it away to join the other resting on his stomach. "Tell me what else has happened while I was away, if you like." His eyes perhaps unable to hold the focus as long as usual, some small smudges of grey weariness beneath his eyes, but only noticeable in good light and to those that know him well.

She was not entirely convinced, but she smiled warmly for him as his hand came up to her cheek, "I do not think you have missed much." She started for the other side of the bed, sitting on it, before reaching down to unlace her boots, "Like I said, Avery and I planted the plants. Which he did not fail to inform me that pink and white are girly colors, and that surely there were more suitable colors for you." She chuckled softly, before scooting so that she could sit near him, and hand reaching to run her hands through his hair, "I went and spoke with Erin and Lydia. It was nice to be able to speak with them again, I have not for a long time." She continued, her eyes still focused on him.

He closed his eyes, but it was apparent he was listening with care. "Girly colors is it? In time he will learn that every color has its place. Would I wear pink? Not if I could help it, but I am not a flower, and on such things, pink is well suited." Her fingers running through his hair brought a wistful sigh. "I am glad you enjoyed your visit. And I trust your friends are as well as can be expected? "

She tucked her tongue in her cheek, the image of him in something pink filling her mind, "Hm, I would have to agree. I do not think pink would match well with your hair color. Though, I still think it would be interesting to see you dress as such." A small giggle escaped her as she continued with the gentle movements, "I think that they are, yes. Erin was more open than Lydia, but I suppose that is not much of a surprise. I think whatever has happened to her has really made her think on her choice of living, though it is not my place to say if she is going to be changing her ways or not."

"I will refrain from commenting, as I have nothing of worth to say." In slow movement his eyes opened to look upon her. He just looked upon her face, and then smiled as he closed his eyes once more. "What else have you had using your time or upon your mind? Any thought to details of the ceremony?" One eye opened just a sliver and he donned a cheeky grin, "Will you be wearing red?"

Her grey eyes narrowed slightly, and she gave a lock of his hair a gentle tug, "Absolutely not." She wrinkled her nose, before she went back to running her hand through his hair, "I have not decided on the matter. I know my father would be pleased if I wore something traditional for our people, but I do not know if I want that or not."

"What would that be?" he opened his eyes once again as well as rubbed the spot on his head in mock sense of indignant pain where she had gently tugged a lock of hair.

She grinned slightly as he rubbed his head, tempted to do it again just in spite, but instead she showed him unknown mercy, "It is kind of like a dress, only it is less fitting and holds a style more to robes." Her brows came together in thought, "Usually they are made of a silky fabric and favor a more silver color. Sometimes they will hold signs of the family household, our something more specific to their element. Have you ever seen my Guardian Silks?" She could not remember, though she was sure she had worn them in the inn a few times, "They are similar in style."

He gave a soft nod to let her know he had, and said softly, "I see. Yet you are thinking of something less traditional? What is your idea?"

"Well, I did not have one. I was going to ask what was usual worn in your homeworld. I asked Lydia to show me what is worn in Rhy'Din.. and well, lets just say my father would be appalled." She chuckled softly, giving a last run through his hair before her fingertips made a slow trail over his shoulder and down his chest to meet with his hands.

He moved an arm and brought it around her shoulders to encourage her to lay down beside him. "It depends on the manner of the ceremony. The gowns worn are not unlike those seen at the Harvest Festival, though those of noble birth wear the colors of their household. The more elaborate the ceremony, sometimes the more elaborate the gown. I should think you could wear what you liked. My attire will be new, but not unlike that I have worn at balls and other formal functions."

She scooted so that she could lay down beside him, sighing softly as her head rested on his shoulder, "Will it be a specific color?" one arm came around to wrap around the front of him loosely, her grey eyes closing in comfort.

"In Yransea colors, I imagine; black trews and a green doublet with gold trimming. I doubt it will be entirely different from much else, though I suspect the under tunic will have a bit more trimming to it than it usual does." He kissed her forehead, "Besides, who will give two glances to me when you will be there, hm?"

"I hope no one, otherwise I will have to protect what will be mine." She said in a teasing tone, her body relaxing against his with the kiss to her cheek, "Perhaps I will find something that is complimentary to yours that still is of my own race." She said offhandedly, her words slowing slightly in their pace.

"I think that is a fine idea," he smiled. "It will all be well, whether you wear a potato sack or the most lovely gown of all, at the end of the day we will be joined."

A low-toned chuckle, "I'll wear a lovely potato sack." She teased softly, adjusting slightly closer to him, "I cannot wait." She said softly, before another sigh escaped her.