The Taking of Khaera (private)

[Daes]

The sunset crept slowly this evening as the reddening sun melted into the horizon, the light shattering into thousands of rippling scarlet diamonds over the distant seas, veiling the city in a blanket of violets of crimson shadows. Rolling clouds curled over the distant mountains and drifted across the violet skies, bringing with them cooling breezes that whispered over the lands. The city was home to many different kinds of races of all classes and was bordered by a neighboring forest. Large as it was, it hardly retained enough guards for it’s population. Despite this lack of enforcement, majority of the people were well mannered and respected each other, filled with a majority of middle and upper class- with several large manors on the edge of the city on their own property. Though the cobbled streets had quieted, and the port filled with only a few remaining merchant boats, few tradesmen still wandered about, but the main festivities to be found remained within the spirited liveliness of the tavern, which was known to the residents as Brawler’s Inn.

She had never cared much for taverns and remained seated in her booth in the corner, a mug of thick honey meade half empty on the table before her. It had been a long day and Khaera had a good mind to stay there for the night and maybe take a walk out before it got too dark out. She was leaned against the backboard lazily, her breasts perked up in the position and her head tilted to the side in boredom, long reddened tresses in a braid pulled in front of her shoulder and trailing over her breast and resting across her lap. Her legs were crossed before her, her fine dagger glinting dangerously at her side. The fire across the room blazed brilliantly, crackling every so often with it’s luminous glow dancing across the contours of her long curved body.

Khaera glanced over the drunkards to no one in particular, her silver eyes sparkling softly under the flickering light, seeming more vibrant against the smoky lining of her gaze. She stretched slightly, rolling her toned bronze shoulders as she grasped her mug to bring it slowly to her full lips. The liquid was smooth and sweetly burned down her throat as she gulped it down, finishing the rest before setting it back on the table once more.

She sighed, feeling disenchanted with the horde of drunken loud men, musing silently to herself. Surely.. there must be something better.

[Sir_G]

Ash had spent the day reaquainting himself with the comforts of civilisation. He had been away for several weeks escorting a friends soon to married daughter to a town some distance away where her fiance awaited. Mundane work but the pay was good and he had the exclusive use of another friends manor at the edge of the forrest on the outskirts of the city.

This second friend was to be away for 6 months and had asked him to stay and watch the place and was paying him a retainer so that the Ash could get a cleaning wench in as was required and keep the place looking respectable. The thought of staying put in one place for so long didn't particularly appeal to Ash but he was a good friend and after all he did have the run of a manor house and a man of his talents could pick up well payed work in this town. Like Ash his friend shared a love for women who enjoyed pain with their pleasure. This shared fetish had seen many debauched days and nights spent entertaining many a willing girl with whip, rope, wood and the various implements his friend had in his well stocked dungeon when Ash was in town for a few days.

The Brawlers Tavern like most popular haunts in any big town was the place to go when you were looking for entertainment, a fight, a loose women or more neferious reasons. Ash knew the owner and had been upstairs discussing some business and as he descended the stairs he saw the usual array of drunks and an unusual lack of women. As he scanned the room he spied her, sitting in the booth in the corner. She had not yet seen him but he sensed her boredom, and noted her perky breasts, her long red tresses neatly braided and draped alluringly accross those perky breasts. She was draining the contents of a mead mug and looked ready to leave.

Ash couldn't let her go without first introducing himself and he caught the bar keeps eye nodded in the girls direction and held up two fingers. The bar keep smiled and nodded and filled two mugs with fresh mead. Ash made his way over to her her table redirecting two drunks who had staggered into his path. As he approached he noted the dagger glinting in the light at her side and made a mental note that this was obviously a girl who if confident enough to openly wear such a tool obviously knew how to use it and his respect for her shifted up a notch. He had long sought a women who would submit to his will and enjoy that submission from a sexual standpoint but he also wanted a women who would stand with him when the need arose.

As he neared the table her beauty was apparent and Ash felt a slight stirring in his loins. He reached the table and politely asked "Buy you a drink?", just as the Bar keep arrived with the two mugs of mead............

[Daes]

Her first impression was to ignore him, continuing to stare off passed him until he made it clear he wanted to converse with her, her fingers tapped the side of the mug delicately as though debating. Well.. well... I suppose. one more drink didn’t harm none. Her eyes glimmered, rising to meet his own, then nodded curtly with a faint trace of a smile over her soft lips. “Of course.” Her voice was smooth and warm, flowing off her tongue… but behind her amused expression, she remained slightly defensive and watched him intently.

She didn’t take her eyes off him, still studying him even while the keeper made to place the mugs upon the small table and take the empty one from her and wandering over the lines of his face, raven black tresses, taut sun kissed skin, then for a moment- back to the light of his frosted blue eyes. His body was strong looking, and though he was being courteous for the while, she knew she should be careful. Prying her gaze away from the man, she looked to the keeper and reached into a side pocket, withdrawing a gold coin. With slight grin, she placed the coin by his hand that he should take it, and with a thankful nod, the he took the coin and wandered off to busy himself with other tasks.

“Have a seat.” She made no move to offer him one, feigning a lack of attraction in her tone. She watched him and laughed softly, half-teasing him, and perking a brow. “Do you always buy drinks for pretty women?” With that, she accepted her new drink, taking it within one hand and bringing it to her lips.

[Sir_G]

Ash watched her as she watched him noting every movement of her eyes, the glimmer and the vunerability that hovered below the apparent confidence and brashness she used as a glamour to perhaps put off a lesser man. Ash had been schooled in his early years by masters of long forgotten arts both martial, magickal, and mystical. He had been offered a position under the Grand Master for advanced training but like most young men the world beckoned and he had turned the offer down to pursue more fleshly goals.

He also noted her payment to the Bar Keep as a way of letting him know she was certainly independent and would not be beholden to him for the price of a drink. He smiled inwardly at these small realisations and as all this was taking place drank in the power of the essence of her being. She was indeed beautiful and he knew if he was able to win her something special, something he could not quite put a finger on would blossom from their joining.

Her voice was warm and rich, almost musical to his ear, as she off handedly suggested he take a seat and he sensed the tease in her and thought to himself that they'd see who would be doing the teasing later on.

As he pulled up the chair to sit he set a circle of protection around them both, and quickly aclimatised his being to the atmosphere surrounding them, not wanting to be caught off guard should anything untoward come their way whilst they talked.........."Do you always buy drinks for pretty women?" she asked as she lifted the mug to those full sensual lips.

Ash chuckled and replied "No, but you obviously buy drinks for men you've never met before, a habit one so pretty as yourself should be more careful of. Don't misunderstand me, I'm flattered but their are those in this place who would take advantage of such generosity. I'm pleased to meet you, my name is....Ash " Before she could answer he projected a scene into her minds eye that included the perception of complete safety, the feeling of being bound, and the sensation of a tongue circling her clitoris. The vision would be fleeting, her captor faceless.

Having done this he leant back in his chair, took up his mug and took a swig of the mead, placed the mug back on the table and watched her and waited for her reply....................

[Daes]

The liquid was nice, burning down her throat even as she set her drink back on the table. She looked to him as his words reached her ears and gave a short nod, about to respond when the image slipped into her mind that she almost gasped… of binds dry and tight against her skin, holding her with security and strapped across her bare body. It didn’t allow for much movement, but it did not matter, it was comforting… warming… filling with need. A blurry vision that heightened her awareness, and her eager body spread- willing or no- to the rough tongue that tantalized over the flushed nub between.. her lips…

It snapped away, her eyes widening slightly as she struggled to force herself to remain still as tightened chill crept over her body. Her eyes narrowed on the fellow, piercing in their ferocity. Ash, he’d said. Was that his image? Or her own? She looked away from him, remembering his words once more to remind herself. She crossed her arms over her chest, silencing the nagging pull on her mind. Khaera almost growled, berating herself. She'd let her guard down. It would not happen again.

“I always tip.” She said simply. “Though I can assure you, generosity needn’t be careless and I can handle myself well enough.” She continued staring off, thinking quietly to herself. Staying here was no good, she was being manipulated, and though she wasn’t sure by what- perhaps it would be best to leave before the sun set any further anyhow.

[Sir_G]

Ash sensed her confusion at the vision he'd projected into her mind but also sensed her surrender and the need that had welled up in her for that instant in time.

The owner of the Tavern, during their business discussion, had informed him there was a slave ship at anchor in the harbour, well disguised as a merchant ship but a slaver none the less. As he'd walked to the table he'd noted two rather nasty looking types across from where they were now seated eyeing the girl and he had no illusions about who they were or what they were planning. He had no reason to protect this girl from them but there was something about her that bought out his protective instincts and also something that made him want to suspend her arms above her head and stripe her body with the single tail back at the manor. He decided to warn her of the danger and make her an offer. If she agreed well and good if not, maybe he should just abandon her to the slavers.

Ash leant forward in his chair and spoke quietly but succinctly and rolled the dice...."I know apart from my introduction you have never met me before, and in these uncertain times there is no reason you should trust a complete stranger especially with the information I am about to tell you, but rest assured if you accept the offer I am about to make you, it will be mutually beneficial to us both." Ash nodded in the direction of the two slavers and continued, "There are slavers in port looking for young pretty women such as yourself and it would appear you have sparked their interest. I have no doubt you are quite expert with that dagger you wear at your side but be under no illusions you might get two or three of them but they hunt in larger groups especially when they are after a prize like you that will bring them great financial reward and they will sacrifice as many as it takes to take you alive. I have a manor on the edge of the forrest just outside town, I can offer you a safe place, a warm meal and a comfortable bed for a night or two or you can take your chances with the slavers. I also sense your need to be out of this place, we can leave now together and avoid an ugly scene and perhaps get to know each other a little better and share some mutual.......enjoyment. Your choice but you need to make it quickly, I sense danger coming our way"............

[Daes]

Her ears perked as she listened quietly, remaining expressionless as he spoke and inciting timid curiosity. As he paused, she turned slowly to look at him in time to see his gaze shifting to a nearby table and perked a brow. Her bright eyes followed his to where the men were sitting, her fingers moving to remain idle by the hilt of her dagger. They didn’t look kind, and tiny glances were beginning to send waves of disgust over her. What he said could very well be true and if that was the case she would need to swallow her pride. Relaxing a little, she wearily brushed her bangs back with her hand.

Khaera fixed her gaze on Ash once more, her eyes hardening in deep thought. What choice is there really? Leave with this fellow though he’s been kind thus far… or take a risk not worth the endeavor…? After all the travel, it would be nice to rest a while and even if she were to find a peaceful road, they could catch her off-guard in her sleep.. She sighed, slightly frustrated as she realized this was the only logical choice. “Well… you’ve caught me a little short-handed here Ash. But alright, I’ll take my leave with you and accept your hospitality… you have my gratitude.” She gave a short curt nod then slowly slid from her seat, rising to stand tall beside the table. “Let us go before it gets dark. It’s been a long day.” With that said, she began to head towards the door, her hand reaching out to grasp the brass knob. Khaera paused and looked to Ash, patiently waiting for him to guide her to his manor.

[Sir_G]

Ash was relieved she had seen the sense in what he had told her. Never one to run from a fight, he knew that whilst he may win it would cost more than it was worth.

Khaera was at the closest exit waiting for him as he left a tip for the bar keep and gave the room a quick scan for any trouble that may follow them out the door. She moved with a cat like grace, sensual and purposeful and like a cat, he sensed she could move with incredible speed should the need arise. Ash moved to the door and they made their way to where the horses were tethered. The manor was about a half hours ride away and barring anyone following them it would be good to take in the evening air and find out a little more about this woman as they conversed along the way.

They mounted the horses and rode through town without incident, acertaining that they weren't followed and breathed a little more easily once they hit the road that led to the manor. "So tell me a little of yourself, what is your name and what brings you to this place in the world?"...........

[Daes]

Having followed Ash to the mounts besides the tavern, her fingers grazed against the neck of the tied mare, softly stroking over the creature’s soft reddish coat. A few quick gestures freed the horse’s reins, and with a satisfied smile, her hands gripped the leather saddle, her weight pushing onto her palms and hoisting herself upon the mare’s back. Khaera settled there comfortably then waited while Ash seated himself upon his mount. Grinning, she snapped the reins, goading the mare into gallop.

Her mare stayed besides Ash’s mount, keeping in sync with speed, her hair gently weaving against the wind and her bangs kissing her cheeks. When he spoke now, she turned to him as though her thoughts were interrupted, then smiled kindly. “Well, all formalities out of the way, I am Khaera Dantes. I was only passing through that town, was on my way to Temuir to see an old friend of mine.” She chuckled slightly, “I hardly stay in any place to long, too much to see in such a short lifetime.”

[Sir_G]

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."

[Daes]

She appreciated his kindness, perhaps she’d come by good luck this time around. Khaera felt much more elated to be out of the city, away from the smell of whiskey and smoke, to the woodlands where the air was clean and brisk.. She never understood city-folk, so much different than she, who traveled wherever the wind would take her and brave any venture that came her way. In the distance the manor was coming to view, and the thought of a good meal set a small smile on her lips as she turned to Ash, “Heh, pleased to meet you as well, my friend for now and host thereafter..” Khaera mused over thoughtfully as she turned to look ahead, eyeing the manor as they edged closer with a seemingly indifferent expression. “So long as I don’t outstay my welcome, I wouldn’t mind staying a few nights and thus would gladly take upon your offer.” She said cheerfully.

“And, if the wine is spiced, all the more I’d willing to stay.” Khaera chuckled softly, “Tis my favorite.” As she glanced at him now, her expression softened. No reason to be so uptight now I suppose… She nodded to the manor, “You have a fine-looking home, perhaps you’d care enough to show me around sometime, show me what kind of secrets you have lurking there.” Khaera grinned teasingly.

[Sir_G]

"Ahhh spiced wine, yes the cellar is well stocked as it should be." Ash did a mental stock take of the cellar and its contents. "And thank you but I am only temporary Master of this fine home. A good friend is away on business for some time and I am taking care of it for him. But we have the run of the place and a maid and stable boy to take care of the more mundane tasks." Ash flashed her a smile and said "So at least for now we live the good life and take our pleasure as we will."

They eased up to the stables where the stable boy stood waiting, eager to get the horses settled and fed and then to head home having done the days work. Ash dismounted and watched Khaera, he didn't think he would ever tire of watching her move.

"Show you my secrets?" he mused out loud. "Well now, a man takes great risk when he shows his secrets but I'm sure if you share some of yours I could certainly reciprocate."

He chuckled as he handed the reins to the boy and waited for Khaera to join him. His stomach reminded him of how long it had been since he had eaten and the food and the spiced wine were becoming a more attractive proposition by the moment. He knew three things at the moment, he felt elated, hungry and he looked forward to the evening and getting to know Khaera better........

[Daes]

She pulled on her mare’s reins as they neared the stable, putting her slowly into a trot as she listened to her host. “Ahh… must be a good friend to entrust you with his home.” She nodded thoughtfully to herself and slowly began pulling up the hose beside his own, she came to a stop before the boy, then pulled her leg over the creature’s back and slid off easily to the ground. “And, indeed we will.” She allowed herself a small grin.

At hearing his reply she chuckled, “Touche, I suppose for now we both retain our own demons, eh?” Khaera’s bright gaze watched him kindly, moving to stand besides him as she would a guide. In a subtle motion her hand raised to briefly touch his lower back, she nodded to him kindly, her lips drawing back into a soft smile. “Let us go in, shall we?”

[Sir_G]

Ash warmed to her touch and they made their way inside. The manor was impressive and most first time visitors were a little in awe of the opulence that greeted them as they entered.

Rowan the maid an attractive 25 year old local girl greeted them as they entered and Ash instructed her to prepare the meal that they would eat in the study and to draw a bath for himself and Khaera if she desired one. She courtesied and withdrew to carry out the instructions.

"The staff here are excellent, more like extended family" he remarked as he showed Khaera to the study. The study was a large room that was more like three rooms in one and Ash spent many an hour here reading, it had several large bookcases that contained many books, a desk, a small dining area, as well as a well stocked bar with wine, spirits, ale and mead.

He moved to the bar and uncorked a magnum of spiced wine and poured two glasses offering one to Khaera and said "Once we have eaten and bathed I'll show you around if you like. Maybe even show you one of those secrets I have if your interested. I trust you're broadminded and not easily shocked." He smiled and awaited her reply.........

[Daes]

The outside was well-kept but once past the entryway of the manor the interior was breathtaking, well furnished and decorated so finely that she almost felt she was improperly dressed to be within the household. She nodded her greeting to the housekeeper, smiling warmly to her then turning to her host. “Tis lovely.” Indeed it was, she’d never had the pleasure of being invited to such a home. Looking about her, she silently admired the architecture and craftsmanship in all things about her, their was skill and art beautiful, portrayed as clearly as the hard work that went into their creation.

She followed him quietly to the study, expressionless in her calm curiosity as her lilac eyes peered about her. Khaera smiled at his statement, coming to his side besides the bar. With silent glee she watched the wine be poured, her eyes rising to his as her fingers gently pressed to the stem of the glass and taking it within her hand.

She had smiled at his remark then perked an eyebrow at his words, and with a slight grin she shrugged her shoulders a bit, “Perhaps.” Was all she said, decided not think on the meaning of his words, and only lifted the glass to her lips and slowly began to drink her wine.

A warm bath… and then dinner… sounded nice.

[Sir_G]

The wine was perfect and Ash could feel the warm glow that signalled the alchohol affecting him. He enjoyed a few drinks, they loosened him up and helped relax him, especially after the adrenalin charged atmosphere as they left the tavern. He drained the contents of his glass and poured another and moved to sit down in one of the leather armchairs in front of the bar that surrounded a small table in the middle and invited Khaera to join him.

"So Khaera tell me of yourself. Perhaps exorcise a demon or two. Our meal will be a little while so we have the time to get to know each other a little more." He smiled and added "I promise all that is spoken within these walls stays here." He looked into her lilac eyes and smiled and offered her some more wine...........

[Daes]

She looked into either of his eyes and slowly taking a seat besides him, sinking into it comfortably as she finished her first glass. Khaera nodded slightly, thinking his words over and deciding if she were to be so welcomed within this fine home, what would it harm to open up a bit. He was kind to her, and it made her feel safe…

Giggling quietly she mused over his words. “Demons, you say…I suppose it depends on what kind, no? Not much to tell on my part I think… no brothers nor sisters.. never quite got along with my father or mother.” She shrugged. “If that’s what you mean of course.. I’ve long left them, and I am happy being free here… with no boundaries. Only the path and where it takes you, however long or short, and only the moon and stars to guide you.”

She hummed pleasantly, obliging herself to pour another glass. “I like to think of myself as an artist, loving nature in all her elements, even a romantic I suppose..” Drinking the wine now, it was warm and ran smoothly down her throat, smiling as she savored it’s taste then gently settled it back down on the counter. “Just survive and live and learn, no?” Khaera grinned warmly.

[Sir_G]

"I think savouring this life and all it has to offer is important. If we suck the marrow as we go it energises us. We certainly learn from our experiences and I certainly would like to think we do more than just survive. But I think also there are times of our own making where it seems that we barely survive." Ash mused out loud as he sipped on his wine. He continued "Our freedom is also a state of mind and it helps to have the means to be truly free and romance makes the world go round." His musings were interupted by a knock at the door and Rowan entered with a large tray of food that she placed on the table.

The tray held bread, cheese, a roasted cold chicken and some vegetables. Ash thanked Rowan and she left them to eat their meal.

"Shall we dig in and suck some of the marrow" he grinned......

[Daes]

She studied him, watching, listening and smiled in response. She liked him thus far, well defined muscles- hard working, rational and yet not arrogant in manner… A moment now a little more intimate than a simple drink and go at an inn. She’d been invited as a guest, even if the situation that had put her there was a little sudden and unorthodox, it’d been a short while she’d known him, but she was growing attracted to him… a ruggedly handsome yet smart fellow, with perceptive eyes and a mind that thinks a bit deeper than what is on the surface. Not eager boys like the men her age, but someone she could actually have a conversation with. It was refreshing.

“Indeed.” She said softly. Her eyes remained on him, the rapping on the door silenced by a kind of contentment as she looked on her host, her gaze moving to the food only once it was set upon the table. She turned to the girl and nodded her thank you, her eyes returning to the man before her.

“Yes we shall.” She stated with a light chuckle. Khaera’s hand reached out slowly, taking a plate and carefully serving herself. She grinned, placing the cheese and meat on her bread and biting into it. The meal was light and delicious, she to take her time in consuming her food and occasionally sipping her wine. Her eyes flickered calmly under the light, enjoying herself in the warm welcoming ambiance of the study and the presence of her host that she now watched with silent curiosity and growing attraction.

[Sir_G]

As always Rowan had put together a simple yet tasty meal. Ash felt ravenous and wasted no time in carving some chicken breast, cheese, bread and placing some vegetables on his plate. A few mouthfuls took the edge off the hunger and Ash noticed Khaera watching him and wondered what thoughts were going on behind those beautiful lilac eyes.

He had resolved to show her the dungeon when it came time to take the tour of the manor and he figured that that would be crunch time depending on how she reacted. She would either be repulsed or curious and curiosity was a good thing because that usually led to experimentation and that was where all the fun lay. He was fiercely attracted to her and didn't want to scare her off by rushing things but he didn't want to be overly cautious and bore her to death either. Funny he mused to himself how the age old dance between a man and a woman never seemed to change no matter how many times you danced it, it was only the beat that varied.

"Once we've eaten I'll show you to your room and you can bathe. There are some more comfortable clothes that should fit you in the room as well, nice ladies wear and frillies and such courtesy of the Master of the Manor and his hospitality. I'll have Rowan wash your things ready for when you wish to be on your way if you like. And then we can do the grand tour of the manor." Ash waved his hand with a flourish and chuckled at his dramatisation of pomposity. The company was obviously good for him he hadn't laughed at himself in weeks........

[Daes]

"Sounds perfect." Khaera nodded slowly and took her finishing bites, feeling warm with satisfaction and no longer bearing an empty stomach. With such a fine home, she wondered curiously what kinds of things decorated the bedrooms. She would certainly sleep well tonight. Her eagerness perked over her features, lightly nibbling her bottom lip for but a moment then grinning with obvious enthusiasm.

"Would you be so kind to show me to my room? I'd be glad to see the rest of the manor when you are ready.."

[Sir_G]

Feeling contented from the meal and looking forward to his bath Ash stood, smiled at her and offered Khaera his hand. The tubs would be full of steaming water and a good soak would wash away any residual bad energy. Her energy was infectious and he ached to touch her more intimately, to sweep her into his arms and kiss her deeply and feel their auras merge. But all things in time. All things in time.

"Excellent, a bath then the tour." he said as he waited for her to take his proffered hand.........

[Daes]

She rose slowly from her seat, her eyes on him all the while as she stepped away from the chair slid over to him. Khaera timidly rose her hand as though teasingly hesitant, though her expression remained kind and entrusting all the while. After the brief moment, her fingers gently slipped over his palm, taking his hand to her own and squeezing gently.

She nodded to him, now grinning with excitement. "Looking forward to it."

[Sir_G]

Ash took her hand marvelling at how small it seemed in his own, thrilling to the smoothness as his thumb brushed the top of her hand and led her upstairs to her room and showed her where things were. The centre peice of the room was a large 4 poster bed that was draped in royal purple with a large down quilt and more pillows than was practicable but his friend did have a sense of the dramatic and loved his plush furnishings.

The tub sat in a corner of the room on a slightly raised wooden dias that was bordered to prevent water spilling on the plush carpet and a drain took care of any spillage. Next to the tub was a bottle of spiced wine, a glass and a single red rose in a delicate single stem vase. Across the room on the other wall was a large wardrobe that contained all manner of Ladies corsetry, lingerie, dresses, riding breeches in fact more clothing than Ash owned himself. Satin, silk, leather it was all there.

There was also a dressing table and chair with perfumes and make up and all a lady would need if she so desired.

"I think you'll find everything you need to make yourself comfortable and more" he chuckled. "If you need anything at all just ring and Rowan will take care of it" and he pointed to the servant summoner that hung inconspicuously next to the bed. "I'll meet you downstairs in an hour?" and with that took his leave and headed to his own room to freshen up.........

[Daes]

She watched him as he left her to the room, smiling cheerfully as she eyed the tub, moving towards it as she examined the fine bath and proceeded to run the warm water with some liquid soap. She stepped out of her shoes, and with a pleasant sigh, she began to remove her garments, her fingers curling under the rim of her top and peeling it off her stomach and then over her breasts. Pulling it over her head, she then folded it and set it aside, moving to push the rest of her clothes down her hips, thighs and letting them drop at her feet.

Khaera ran her fingers timidly over her bare arms, now watching the water level rise. After a moment of waiting, she stopped the water flow and moved a foot to step inside. The warm water greeted her skin, and she, feeling welcome enough, placed the other within and slipped her into the tub. She stretched and giggled quietly. This was certainly nice. Khaera pulled the band from her tresses, letting them flow about the top of the water as she grabbed the soap and lathered it up for her use. After acquiring enough suds, she began to run her hands across either arm then over her breasts, gradually lowering over her flat stomach the up her thighs and repeating the process over each area, taking special care to clean herself well, and taking much pleasure in doing so.

She took her time, washing her hair and rinsing it out once more, then relaxing against the back of the tub and sipping from the bottle of wine. Her host drifted into her mind and left once more, leaving her feeling warm and happy, even as her fingers gently stroked between her lips.

Khaera had not gone any further when she decided she should not keep him waiting and rose from the basin, letting the water cascade from her body and splash at her knees. She popped the drain, letting the water dissipate while she grabbed a towel off a rack and dried off her smooth body, gently wiping away the remaining water from her legs and face and neck.

After she lightly applied dabs of scented oil, she made to stand before the dresser, biting her lip lightly. There was no point in overdressing, and after she picked out fitting undergarments along with loose black satin pants and a black lacy tee that was attractive but not too revealing.

Scrunching her hair dry within the towel one last time, she made her way to the door, her hair still damp and falling long down her back. Looking around, she saw no one. “Sir?” She glanced about once more, then decided to wait at the top of the stairway for Ash.

[Sir_G]

Ash made his way to his room and started to undress ready for his bath, mentally he ran through the events of the day that had led him to the here and now and was well pleased. Khaera was one of the most beautiful women he had met and now he was entertaining her at his home albeit his temporary home. Distracted by his thoughts of her he noted his reflection in the mirror. His body hardened by years of training and real life adventure and conflict was the envy of many men. Broad shoulders, tapering to a slim waste, well muscled arms and legs and a cock that when erect stretched to nine and a half inches long, thick and rock hard. He also noticed his thoughts of Khaera had made him semi erect and a tear of precum had started to form at its eye.

He mentally chided himself and made his way to the steaming bath that Rowan had prepared for him and slipped into it, briefly pausing to pour himself a small glass of wine. The warm waters closed around him like a womb and he had spent many a time in a similar state meditating, astral travelling and mixing and learning from the inhabitants of the astral plane. So used to it was he, that almost as soon as he had settled he felt his astral body seperating from his physical body connected by the silver cord that bound him to the physical world. He made his way back to Khaeras room and stood and watched as she undressed and partook of her bath. Savouring the sight of her hard body and firm breasts as she soaped them, cleansing herself of the days travels and worries. Watching her as she ran her fingers down over her thighs and stroked between her pouting lips.

He forced himself to return to his room and leave this vision of beauty and the object of his lust and complete his bath. The sexual tension though would cause an impression of him in the room that she may sense given her latent pshycic abilities.

He completed his bath and dried himself and dressed in clean black leather pants with a matching leather vest. The black leather accentuating his raven coloured mane and leather sandles completed the job. The air was still warm from the day and it usually stayed that way at this time of year. He finished his glass of wine and made his way to meet Khaera downstairs and was pleasantly suprised to find her waiting and the top of the stairs looking radiant after her bath. The loose satin pants could not hide her shapely ass, nor could the lacy T hide her erect nipples. He was pleased she had decided to wait for him and couldn't hide that fact. He smiled at her, offered her his hand and said "Are you ready for the tour de maison and did you enjoy your bath my lady?"..................

[Daes]

Turning her head, she watched him now with fond undisguised attraction, her eyes pulled to his gaze as easily as her body was drawn closer to his. His hardened body incited within her an aroused curiosity that she almost indulged herself into embracing him… Though instead now, her hand grazed his hip and slid up the curve of his back, the smooth leather slipping softly beneath her fingertips. As Khaera studied him, his smile made her feel protected… and though it made her more curious and more fascinated, it also made the girl nervous. Even as strong as she was, his presence created a sense of a security, a feeling that she often relied upon only within herself… but maybe… it was okay.

Khaera grinned, almost nervously pulling her long dampened tresses in front of her shoulder and nodded slowly. “Yes, I most certainly did, and I’m excited to see the rest of this lovely home…” The words purred off her tongue as she drifted off, seemingly distracted and timid for but a moment. Though her host was indeed charming, yet even so… was he not still a stranger?

Brushing the thoughts away, she leaned into him casually, her enthusiasm returning and washing away any shreds of coyness. It was not in her nature after all, to be so shy, and though it somewhat pulled in the back of her mind, she quickly silenced the callings that nagged her. Khaera was independent after all, but how long had it been since she had relied on another whether for comfort or protection? Maybe… maybe this losing that sense within herself was what frightened her… but also, maybe this too, was okay.

“Come,” Khaera nodded to him in growing eagerness, though kept her voice soft and calm. “I’m looking forward to this tour of yours.”

[Sir_G]

Ash slid his arm around her waist and let his hand rest on her hip noting the warmth her body radiated and her now familiar scent. He marvelled that this woman a mere few hours ago had the look of a wild cat about her, and now she had relaxed enough to show such a beautiful feminine side that it was hard not to look like some slack jawed fool as he looked at her. He sensed the battle going on inside her, to trust him or not and he resolved to do all he could to make her feel at ease.

He smiled at her eagerness to begin the tour and chuckled as she pulled him toward the stairs "easy girl there will be no tour if we both wind up at the bottom of the stairs in a crumpled heap."

They headed downstairs and began to wander about the manor with Ash pointing out various features and explaining the history of the house as told to him by his friend. There was much laughter and teasing going on as they went. They took in the conservatory, the ballroom, the library proper, the kitchen, the training room till all that was left to see was the wine cellar and the dungeon. As they walked towards the stairs to the wine cellar Ash reflected again on how good she made him feel and said "Ahhh Khaera you make me feel like a teenager again. I'm so glad you took up the offer to come to the house. I hate to think what may have been your fate had those slavers had their way although I'm sure more than a few would have been speaking to their gods had they tangled with you."

They reached the top of the stairs and Ash grabbed a flaming torch for the walk down the stairs. "Now for the most important place in the house, the wine cellar, watch your step down the stairs the manor plumbing is fed from a hot spring and we get a bit of water seepage through the walls the stairs can get slippery." They began their descent to the cellar that also led to the cavern that was the dungeon.........

[Daes]

With his arm slipped about her, she walked with him through the manor, enjoying every new aspect of the home with curious rhapsody. Occasionally her hand slipped over his back in a light caress, her body leaning into him as he pointed out various artistic details; without crowing over the (most likely) pricey craftsmanship and hard work that was put into every room.

He seemed pleased with her, and his comments brought a soft chuckle to her lips. “Indeed. I like to think… I can hold my own weight.” Khaera grinned waywardly. As her eyes looked to the stairs, she took in his warning carefully, then looking back to him with calm, curious eyes. She nodded slowly then began making her way slowly down the stairway, taking precaution with each step as she made her way into the darkness.

The light from the torch flickered across the stone walls and over the contours of her body, partly illuminating her path before her. It was dark and the air was slightly warming against her skin, spiking an odd sense of unease in her. When she had reached the floor, she waited for the light to come with her host.

Looking around the darkness, she remained still at the bottom of the stairs, wondering with hesitation what area of the manor was this. Turning her head to him, Khaera searched his eyes for that comfort that he had so inspired within her during their time together, feeling anxious now by the dark that seemed to loom before her. “What… kind of place is this?”

[Sir_G]

Ash sensed her unease and moved quickly to calm her. "It's actually the wine cellar Khaera, the home of your favourite spiced wine and also the place my friend calls the playroom. I'll set some more torches so you can see better." He squeezed her hand and moved off to light some more torches and continued "The complete absence of light down here can be disorienting and alarming but rest assured no evil will befall you in this place while I am with you. In fact the only things that will happen will be those that you desire and consent to. Now Come over here and we'll sample some more of your favourite wine and soak in the atmosphere and if you wish I will show you the playroom."....................