Ash noted with pleasure her horsemanship, as each moment passed he noticed more and more about her, her hair moving in the wind almost as if it had a will of its own, her easy smile as she introduced herself and how she seemed so much more relaxed now they were out of the tavern. He could relate to her statement about there being so much to see in the short span allocated to us as humans. She exuded an energy that was invigorating and it touched a place in him that had spent to long in the dark.

He would enjoy their play when the time was right, he remembered the sense of need she had projected in the tavern in that fleeting moment. There was no doubt that she would be difficult to read though and his sense of honour and his training only allowed him the pleasure of a willing submissive.

He had seen so many others take whatever they wanted by force including the freedom just to exist. Life was cheap in these times and whilst he did not consider himself to be a crusader he would not force his opinions or himself on anyone even when the laws of the land condoned it or ignored it and he only took life in self defence when there was no other option.

"Well I'm pleased to make your aquaintence Khaera. I'm also glad you chose to take up my offer, it's been far too long since I've had a guest at the manor especially one as attractive as you. When we arrive I'll have the maid prepare us some food and wine and draw you a bath if you'd like. Please dont be shy when it comes to enjoying my hospitality as I said its not often I get a chance to extend it because I like you tend to travel quite a bit."