Dear Feylnx⋅∫⋅

[Ayrn]

She felt as though she had a personal connection with every fallen leaf that tumbled recklessly from the tree tops to the mossy forest floor. Every zig and zag of the forest was stored in the girls mind for future reference. When she was much younger she and her father used to play hide and seek and she always had marvelled at how well he knew the place in which they lived and most of her extra time had been spent visually mapping out the terrain. Hand print sized leaves twisted and contorted on their plummet to the forest floor varying hues of gold, red and brown mixed with the slightest tinge of emerald that remained during the summer months of new growth. The fall hues clash against the stark empty branches, the bare trees stood towering aganst the backdrop looking as though they should be shivering with their newly shed bounty. The brothers and sisters to the ones within the space just beyond her grips lined the emerald shoots whos growth had ceased with the first frost of the season. Running shoes step lightly to not disturb their resting place but even the minimal exchange of weight exerted the 'crunch' and 'rustle' that was loud enough to utter her presense to any woodland creatures about. The fall was turning into winter quickly and light shivers ran along her spine, indicating that either she needed to head back to the warm cottage or she needed to speed up. The second option seemed more appealing as steps quickened to aid the flow of blood to extremities. Her nose was already numb and she crinkled it to ensure that it was still there with a small chuckle at the ridiculous antics. Long raven hued tresses were rustled with the breeze that ran through the terrain but were encased in a thick ebony headband. Surefooted strides were placed evenly on the mossy loam, ankle twisting slightly with every step in the mud that had gathered beneath the surface. With the sparce foliage the sun was visible from high in the sky. Rays glide down through the branches to illuminate what would previously be darkness through the other months of the year. Frost that had hardened the ground had disappeared currently so strides pivotted changing her course of direction to West, where the small paddock her father had created was layed out behind their house. The two resident horses raised their heads as she appeared at the last bush of the foliage before whistling sharply to the animals to ensure she did not spook them when she broke from the bushes. Her dad usually rode the older bay mare. So when she approached the gate the chestnut moved in her direction and nickered lightly. The small shelter that housed the animals in the evening was nothing more then a modified shed, the little equipment they managed to gather hung neatly on hooks in the corner. The leather bridle had been made by one of the elders in the Tribe and a line of white and green beads ran along the brow band. Soft leather was grasped and hung across her elbow as she passed back towards the fence. Feet propped on the lower board before hips were swung over the top and she landed on the other side. The horse accepted it as the bridle was pulled over his ears. Positioning the horse at the fence to ensure an easy mount she swung onto the animals back gathering the reins. Never had a saddle been in the budget and she preferred it that way, there was no need. Her father met her at the gate and assisted in her opening it to allow the chestnut gelding out into the open. Fey, we have something we need to talk about? You know you are getting older, more mature, budding into a fine young woman. She was a little suspicious as to what was coming next, it was not going to be something good. Thank you, dad, I thank your raising for that. She said in a polite manner with a small chuckle. He did not even flinch, which was unlike him. Well before you were born your mother and I discussed it would be the best for the family to have you married to a man of status in the tribe. It would also be good for your own self. It is coming to be that time dear, a lot of women your age are already being courted by the men that their parents have decided on. I wanted you to know this so its not such a suprise. Stomach sunk and she felt a little nauseous. Who cares what mom wanted, she has no say in my life. She's not here is she? She spoke defiantly. He looked a little angry now and a flash of frustration crossed his face. This is just the way its going to be no questions about it. He told her and a small glare was shot to him before the horse was nudged away from the conversation. I am going for a ride. She stated hotly though she knew the anger would wear off, after all it was simply the way the tribe functioned and she was not too sure why she would have expected her father to be any different. She had held onto a belief that because he had seen so many marriages turn the wrong way including his own that he would adopt a new belief that she was mature enough to choose her own partner. Swallowing a lump that formed in her throat she nudged the horse into a canter. Digits entwine with the fiery hued mane that whipped close to her face. As soon as she leaned forward the horses hooves dug in, heart pounded wildly at the haphazard pace maintained. Breathing was ragged half from the tears that threatened to fall and the excelerating pace. What she was not accounting for was the rabbit that hopped out in front of her, the horse veered to the side sliding in the mud to come to a bone jolting halt, blackberry bushes savagely tore at her jeans poking and prodding her. She noticed that the horse was distraught and shifting its weight back and forth and immediately she jumped off the horse, spotting that it did not want to put weight on one of its front legs. She felt horribly guilty as palm ran along the horses ankle pausing to feet the heat already starting to accumulate. It was most likely just a sprain but she knew better then to not take the animal straight to the medicine man. One rein was grasped and the horse limped obediantly behind her. She murmered soothing words to the compliant animal. Hating that she would have to walk him right through the center of the busiest area of the Tribe. Little kids stopped their playing and pointed at the horse as she passed by. Palm was placed on the geldings neck soothingly before the animal was tied loosely to a tree outside the medicine mans house, she would never tie the horse with a bit so she was lucky the bridle was a hackamore. She stepped up to the door and knocked lightly, before her hand was even on the door though a deep voice called out through the house. Come in. She passed into the smoke filled hallway. The old man sat in a chair fiddling with a piece of wood. Feylnx, always a pleasure to see you, what can I do for you today? She fiddled with her hands. I was out riding and my horse spooked as we were galloping at a rabbit and he's hurt. He slipped in the mud. I was wondering if you could look at him. After she stated that he stood and walked to the door following her outside. She held the horse as he looked over the leg that the animal held off the ground.

[Lonestar]

Dressed in a tight fitting black shirt that blended with the male's dark skin tone and one of his nicer pairs of jeans, he stepped out into the winter sun, feeling its heat almost instantly in stark contrast to the bitter winds that chapped his skin. Thankfully, even in the short sleeve shirt the man was not uncomfortable in such weather. Sure snow littered the ground and most of the children of the tribe were busy trying to build snowmen or engage in snowball wars while bundled up in so many clothes they looked like colorful snowmen themselves, but to him it was just another normal day. Well almost. The day before, his parents had invited him over for dinner: a rare occasion in itself although the shifter knew they were both quite proud of his position in the tribe. Although it had appeared out of the ordinary and he had accepted the offer with a lingering suspicion that they had an ulterior motive, but when he had arrived and the meal had passed without them introducing anything new to him, Kat had begun to relax. Too soon had his guard been let down it seemed for within the next few moments as his mother put away the dishes and both he and his father moved into the living room to relax upon the comfortable leather sofa, the real reason they had asked him over was revealed. Against his wishes, they had set up another wife for him, despite the disappointment that the first had demonstrated. Remaining motionless like a statue with an expressionless facade, he had listened to the details without really caring about them, only letting his true emotions shine through when they told him who it was to. Partnering him with Feylnx, the bastard daughter of the disgraced Bennet's wife, was a very unexpected move indeed. The elder man must have been very persuasive and very generous with his dowry offer in order for his parents to have accepted the deal. This news did little to change his mind, however. Marriage was a pointless union: a place where love was talked about openly although it rarely existed. Not like he wanted to marry for love anyway or even feel the emotion. Long ago, a very wise woman had accused him of being incapable of such feeling and he agreed with her for once. Yes, he held complaints against their obvious disregard for his decision to remain a bachelor, but it would be dishonorable, and worse, disrespectful to an already wounded man, to call off the arrangement simply because the bloke did not want to have to be attached for the rest of his life. Duty demanded that he answered the call and therefore also required him to accept what his parents had told him and agree to meet with Bennet and his daughter at their house the next day. Walking along the dirt road from his home on one side of the reservation towards their residence on the other, that was the promise the man intended to fulfill. Today was a beautiful day and many others of the tribe were out of their houses playing with their children or pets in the front yards and a few who recognized him paused to wave good naturedly before turning back to their more importance task of stopping their hooligans from eating yellow snow. The town was a rather large one considering its population, but was small in comparison to the acreage which the tribe owned, extending nearly fifteen miles into the woods in any direction and it therefore took the lord a great deal of time to reach his destination. Upon arriving, he halted outside of the front gate, dark pools sweeping the landscape to take it all in before limbs carried him to approach the door. Hand lifted, knuckles rasping against the wooden framed door as a fist was formed then abandoned once the task was done. Wishing he were in the mountains in solitude rather than at this house calling after am unwanted future bride, Kat waited for the door to open, hearing some rustle going on inside along with some muffled lyrics which he could not clearly make out.

[Ayrn]

It did not take the older man long to diagnos the horse with nothing more then a small sprain. He rubbed some sort of a balm on it and braced the leg with a quilted bandage directing her to take it off and change it at least once a day and to keep the horse moving and take him down to the creek and have him stand in the cool rushing water at least once a day. She nodded looking worried before he then placed a hand on her shoulder. He will be fine. Its mild. Things happen, I know you take fabulous care of those two horses. A small smile creased gentle features raising the corners of her lips at the comment. Thank you. She told him and he nodded before stepping back in the direction of his house and disappearing behind the door. He peeked back out behind it. By the way I heard the news about you being offered for Kat to marry, congratulations. Clearly he had thought that she already knew who it was and she froze to the spot. The ill tempered male was the topic of hot conversations all along the tribe, although she had never officially met him. She nodded her thanks before placing a hand on the horses neck and nudging the animal into a walk with the tug of the rein in the direction in which would lead back to her house. She passed through the woods even though it was longer to avoid the well trodden areas not wanting to have to explain to people what had happened to the horse. The walk was silent with nothing but the small footfalls of her own and the slightly larger ones of the horse who was already walking almost better, he had just stung himself mostly it was like stubbing your toe, you jump around for a bit like it is the end of the world but eventually the pain subsides and you are left back where you started with nothing more then a dull ache. Within the next half an hour the small cabin came into view and unintentionally her steps quicken to get the horse back in the paddock with its friend and throw them both some hay. Slipping the bridle over the horses ears she then placed it back in the room before walking towards the house. Stomach grumbled in protest against her not having eaten for a couple hours. Shoes were discarded at the door as the screen door slammed shut behind her. She was able to hear her father talking to someone though that was not unsual since he had a couple of friends that would come over on a regular basis. Feylnx I have someone you need to meet, come join us. Socked feet were nearly silent on the hardwood floor of the place as strides carry her between the kitchen and the living room where her father sat with his back to her and a boy that looked to be a couple years older then her sitting on the couch. Brow raised lightly as hazel gaze landed on him. She had never officially met him but she was almost positive that he would be introduced as Kat. Stomach churned knowing that this was already decided that this was the man that she would be expected to spend the rest of her life with against whether or not they would even get along. She was a little more refined then the other girls in the tribe. Features were more Irish than that of Native Americans. Cheekbones were high and prominent as smile took over features in a polite manner. You must be Kat. She stated quietly. She stepped a little closer. Its very nice to meet you. Head was dipped slightly in a respectful manner before taking her seat on the couch across from him joining her father. Her father was beaming with the manners of his daughter and that would have been the only reason that she would have done it. Palms were folded in her lap and her father then stood up. I will leave you two to get acquainted. Kat, if you have no other plans please stay for dinner. We would love to have you. She was not too sure about being left alone with the male that she did not know. Shifting a little restlessly palm ran through ebony locks that were concealed by a raven hued headband. She waited for him to speak not wanting to be impolite.

[Lonestar]

Weight remain centered with both feet flat on the ground; the male standing with legs slightly apart and hands clasped in front of him while waiting on the inhabitants of the little home to answer his knock. Inaudible utterances of a singular masculine voice ceased just before the bloke heard foot falls advancing and forced his muscles to relax in consequence. No doubt it would be the father to answer the door and he needed to at least look like he was not apathetic to this meeting or the marriage as a whole. For every family in their culture, the marriage of a woman child was looked at as a monumental event: one that parents sometimes struggled with, especially if they were not completely faithful to the ancient practices of their people. Kat guessed that this man was one of those traditionalist, much like his own parents, but because he only had one daughter and no sons with which to leave his estate, their union would be more readily scrutinized and perhaps a touch more welcomed for a married daughter was a security most fathers appreciated when their offspring had reached the age which they could begin their own lives as adults. It also guaranteed the continuation of the blood line and even if this would not be a concern for this particular man, the Chosen had heard from many that Bennet was a very honorable man: loving the girl as much as if she were his own flesh and genetics and providing all that she needed in life. For his efforts, the baron could not help but admire the strength he possessed. Steps stopped and the sound of a lock sliding back from its cubby caught his attention just as a quick breath was sucked into his mouth and mask transformed to the friendliest and most open expression the male could manage in preparation. A polite smile graced his lips very briefly as they exchanged introductions and shook hands, assimilating into the white man's way of greeting as he was invited indoors. Without further words, long strides carried the younger drake into the home, dark eyes roaming the inner sanctum, instantly becoming interested in the characteristic style which with the decor was chosen. It was hard to tell, however, whether it had been the father or the daughter to furnish the rooms, but he assumed it had been the patron’s doing. One of the seats upon the couch there in the living room was offered to him and he graciously took it, sitting forward still with nearly impeccable posture, arms resting upon thighs while he watched the other move to rest in an arm chair to his right; the customary throne for the man of the house it seemed. Casually, conversation was carried on, mostly with the elder being the one to speak. Surprisingly, the never touched on the subject of the engagement, but it was clear once the subject matter turned to the woman that her father was immensely proud of the person she had become. During a lull in the talk, Bennet sat forward with a grunt and directed a very stern gaze to the younger, declaring what he was next to speak about without having to release a syllable. His mouth parted to release noise, but just then the sound of a door opening from the back of the house caught both of their focuses, the pair glancing over their shoulders in the direction of the kitchen. Pulling in the new arrivals scent as well as new oxygen, the shifter found a sweet odor which clung to nearly every room in the house. The vixen that was hardly old enough to be considered an adult had arrived. Gaze shifted to the older man as he called out to her, the twenty year old's countenance growing hard in a natural reaction despite his earlier design to make the pair of them comfortable in his presence. Limbs straightened, carrying torso towards the ceiling as he stood in a respectful manner once the girl entered. Making the extinct sign of respect from days far past against his chest and bending his head some to produce the same effect, the man put forth a little more effort than was usually expected from him in order to at least try and make a slightly good impression upon their first meeting. It is good to meet you as well, Feylnx. Husky vocals replied in the deep tone, body sinking back to the couch only once she had chosen where she was going to sit. Half a beat of silenced passed before the older man stood up, dismissing himself but not before inviting him to dinner. Bowing his head in thanks the baron left it at that, a silent agreement, before lifting vision to watch her father disappear around the corner. Sighing lightly, he turned back to the woman, eyes meeting hers and never faltering as he held the stare for a long moment, fighting with words that simply would not form within his mind. He could think of nothing to say; nothing to use to make her feel comfortable while he himself suffered. Not the best conversationalist, the man usually relied on common interests to lead the talk if he ever felt the need to initiate the exchange with another person, but to his knowledge they had nothing to relate with. The only thing shared between them was the promise of them joining their hands in matrimony. Shifting briefly in his seat, pools dropped from hers briefly before quietly spoken words emit. I realize this is not, perhaps, the most desirable situation for yourself. I do not particularly favor our parents agreement either, but I will honor it. Glancing upwards from where nearly black pair had been directed at the ground, a challenge met her with his words, gaze critical as it ran over her, tying to assess what might be her reply to his question. Do you intend to do the same? Knowing that she could already be planning ways of obtaining her freedom from this contract, the bloke called her forward to confess, hardly one to make the same mistake twice. To be fooled once into believing another held the same standards and duty that he did was enough of a lesson. This one would not have the same advantage over him as did the other.

[Ayrn]

She might be considered a little more pretty then that traditional Native American woman, she was a little more feminine a little more refined with high cheek bones, a narrower face and sparkling hazel eyes hidden beneath long lashes in striking comparison to raven locks. Though despite the fact that she knew this did not make the man and less intimidating. He was well known as being one of the Chosen in the tribe and his family held a high rank, so how was it possible for to be set to marry him? She had also heard that the man was fiery with a temper, one that she hoped that she would not experience for a long while, though she was pretty easy to get along with, ivories clamp on the inside of her bottom lip as she stepped into the room and felt the mans eyes rest on her own for a moment as their introductions we made and he mimicked the sign of respect, he could no be that bad could he? She would give him the chance to prove this theory though it was not as though she even had a sliver of a choice, not after what her mother did she was not going to disappoint her father as well. So when her father moved back into the kitchen and she settled back onto the couch she then turned to meet his gaze as he spoke. And she fumbled for the words to reply back. As I am sure you, as well as the rest of the tribe knows my fathers reputation was tainted by what happened with my mother and her betraying him. He loved her, even though they were in an arranged marriage and he loved her enough to take me on as his own kid when he could have easily given me up. I plan to abide by his wishes and trust him to know what is best for me. I will honour his decision to the best of my ability and while it might not seem ideal as of right this moment perhaps time will change your mind. She did not enjoy being inside for too long so eventually after a moment she stepped up off the couch. Shall we go for a walk? Its a nice evening out. The weather this winter would be wild and she wanted to take advantage of the times that it was sunny and clear and not cold out. Stepping by the kitchen she propped her hands on the door frame ducking her head into the kitchen. Do you need any help with the food dad? He clattered against the pots and pans before turning to her. No, Fey, you go and keep our guest company. She then turned back with a small smile. As she reached the door, a jacket was pulled over her shoulders before then putting a pair of runners on and holding the door open for him to pass through behind her and out onto the back porch. The air was no longer stuffy to her and the forest was welcoming. It was dark and the sun had already managed to set since it had when she had been walking home with the horse. The horses had already noticed that she was coming out to see them and left the hay piles and moved in the direction of them. So what are your hobbies? She asked gently, it seemed so strange to be betrothed to this man and yet know nothing about him. She did not move far enough to the touch the horses but merely watched them. She then took a step off the step of the porch promising that she would not go too far. She would still remain within earshot of the house so that her father would be able to call when dinner was ready since he did not want help with the food. She was not able to stay away from the horses as they lingered at the fence hoping that she would come to them with some treats that she usually brought from the house or picked from the garden. During the spring she did a lot of gardening though they used the carrots that she produced for the horses. She was unable to resist the faces they gave her so she ducked beneath the wooden rail and jogged to the shed that all the tack and feed was contained in and returned with two carrots passing between the boards and back out again standing beside him again and offering the carrots to the horses with her palm upward and watching as they took them gently. She knew that he would ask about the horse. The one with the bandage is mine, I was out riding today and he slipped in the mud and sprained his leg. Casual conversation was made as she then rested her elbows on top of the fence board tilting her head to look in his direction as the horses then left and went back to their hay.

[Lonestar]

Facade was free of emotion as she spoke: the perfect picture of indifference with a slight twinge of interest he added mostly for the woman's benefit. When he was younger, the look had been more easily sustained, but since he had been Chosen, the passion of his beast made composing his features something he had to work at more. Now, after dealing with the struggle for two years, the look was his armor that constantly hung upon forehead and conjuring it was as easy as breathing. Modifying the expression to be welcoming was a bit of a challenge here, but the man did not want her to feel uncomfortable under his characteristic apathetic mask. Later she could learn his ways and adjust to them, but asking for all give and no return so immediately was social suicide. Curiosity and interest sparked as she spoke, breaching the subject of her mother's disloyalty as if it was just another subject for Sunday talk. Inadvertently, the male leaned towards her slightly; keeping pools level with hers while she spoke. Normally, a simple reply to his question would have satisfied the bloke, but he found the alternative very pleasing, despite the aversion he held for extensive conversation because the more she talked, the more he was able to learn about her without having to ask the personal questions. Most people were ignorant of just how much information about themselves they laid open for other's to see whenever they were talking; especially if it was something important or an event of their past. In this instance, it appeared that the damsel was either indifferent to what her mother had done, or had run a very convincing story in her own mind that led her to believe she did not care about the betrayal of a respectable man by his mate. Slowly, she involved love into the talk and he shifted uncomfortably, moving to rest backwards against the couch upon which he was sitting to create distance between them. Her father had loved her mother even though their marriage had been arranged; just as theirs was. Did this mean the maiden held out a hope for love between them? Was she waiting on the fairy tale ending that all women lusted after from the time they were old enough to find interest in the opposite sex? On that subject, the drake could not be gentle with her or let her down easily. He would not love her; could not love her. A man like him was not born to love. Instead, he existed to fight and to serve. Whatever fantasy she was formatting for their future in her mind, the shifter would, unfortunately, have to break, but perhaps he could wait a while until they knew each other better before he declared his inability of love. Watching her with hooded eyes, the male remained silent as she finished speaking, confirming his suspicions almost indefinitely with her last words. Thankfully, Feylnx did not allow herself to remain in his company that some had described as unnerving for long and instead rose and suggested they moved out of doors. Bowing his head and silently consenting, he stood a moment before her then kept about a step behind her strides as they moved through the house to the kitchen where she paused and asked her father if he wanted help. Expecting the man to turn her away, the lord was therefore neither shocked nor satisfied that he did just as Kat thought he would by declining her offer for help. Patiently, he waited for her to don the necessities needed for walking in the snowy atmosphere then reached out and held the door as she passed through it, shutting the mass against the frame quietly while he stepped out with a crunch onto snow. Brows rose in what might be a flash of amusement as she asked him what his hobbies were before a frown furrowed forehead and instantly erased any hint of a good natured temper. I am Chosen. I do not have many hobbies. He replied, always to the point, however he did not appeared to be satisfied with the answer for he continued to frown and look off into space in front of him, moving to stride as stealth fully as a cat without looking at her when she started towards the fence and yet still managed to maintain the exact distance that was between them when they had been standing upon the porch moments before. If I must name what I do often they would be hiking, mountain climbing, and camping. I do not enjoy being indoors much. Struggling, the man attempted to give her some insight to his own life since she had no other way of learning other than what he provided. Limbs draw to a halt at the paddock boarder, arms remaining at his side while pools followed the damsel's movements when she ducked beneath the boards and disappeared into a shed, but elbows were brought up to rest against the wood once she was out of sight. Hard pair then turned to the horses that stood before him warily, their prey instincts telling him he was not nearly as kind as their owner-who-gives-them-treats. He had never seen the appeal of the equines to humans other than that they were, perhaps, powerful and beautiful to look at. All he saw when taking in their large mass was a feast to be had that would last for two, perhaps three days straight without the immortal needing to hunt again. Stomach growled at the thought, reminding him that he had yet to have eaten dinner and he was suddenly grateful for the invitation although he hoped the food would be finished fast before he let the large cat loose to make a meal out of one of their horses. Teeth and claws ripping the flesh of her horse as easily as if it were butter as mouth filled with the warm crimson of the mammal. Yes, that certainly would be a sight to scare the vixen away from him. He was glad when she returned and distracted him from his thoughts of eating the animals in front of them. Taking care as to not reveal himself, the baron took the time allowed to him as the girl walked across the pasture to take in her appearance and found an appreciation for what he found. Her mother's heritage was dominant in her structure, marking her as one of the tribe easily, but the taint of the Irish blood could be seen as well. It was apparent in the lighter hue of her skin, the smoother European make of her facial features, and the eyes that were tinted green like no Native American woman could posses. The blend was intriguing and yet, the moment he began to find pleasure in learning his parents had not done bad at all in choosing for him a beautiful wife, the bloke shut off his mind, unwilling to form any sort of attachment to her other than duty. They would be bound by law, by word, and by the spirits to uphold the institutions of marriage, but that was as far as the man wanted to extend their favors. He would protect her of course, honor her, and do all else that was expected of a man in a relationship, but he could not love her or even be too fond of her. She was not his mate for humans could not be mates; not in his mind. Their lifespan was far too short for them to be adequate companions. Once life began to finally mean something, their spirits would be dismissed into the spirit world and the Chosen partner would suffer through the pain that came with the death of a mate which usually ended in the survivor finding a refuge in suicide. Dismissing the thoughts of mates and his fiancé, the male listened as she explained her horse’s injury while she fed the beast's carrots which they eagerly took, keeping as far away from him as they could. Smiling for once, he watched the equines hurry away once they had their treat, eager to leave the presence of the loaming hunter and noticed that hers was the one that had kept the most distance between them. Ah. That is why he remained behind his friend. He is weaker and did not want me to notice. Cleaver fellow.

[Ayrn]

The man was quiet, and in a way that he seemed to be not including things that she might expect to pass between the two of them. Of course she understood that this would be a little different then the other relationships in the tribe since there would be a lot more pressure on him since he was one of the Chosen and he would be a lot less involved with her. Though they needed to be able to get along since it would turn into a train wreck if they could not even work at that. She promised herself that she would try her best to make it work and would only end up halting it if she was truly miserable. Though she did not even like to think about that since that would be yet another betrayal that her father would not understand. Especially since she was positive that he worked so hard to get her paired with an influential family. One of which would take their family name back up the ranks again. She hated that she did not even have a miniscule say about this, luckily though she had been enough of a loner during the time that she had been with the other children of the tribe that she had not made many friends and she had not had any interest in other men that she had met. She knew that it would be heartbreaking if she were to have interest in one and then be forced to be married to Kat. Though this was not the situation so it put her mind at ease a little more. When they were then outside he told her that he did not really have time for hobbies and she frowned a little though she did not allow him to see this, he was not ready to open up to her which bothered her a little since she knew that now that it had been announced that they were to be married it would not be long before they announced when they were supposed to be married by. Which would not be long since they would not want her to get too much older then she already was even though to the normal race of humans they would both be considered so young. They only had a little while to learn more about one another and she had been open to him so therefore she felt as though he should be the same way with her. after all she would be expected to be the closest person besides his family to him, which she would now be a part of. He then thought better of his answer and gave her a small list of the things that he seemed to do in what little spare time he had. A small nod was uttered towards him. There was a silence between the two of them until she told him about the other horse and he commented that the other horse was smart staying well hidden by his friend and head dipped again in acknowledgement. Head snapped towards the door opening as her father then stood in the door frame uttering that dinner was ready for them and to come in. She took steps towards the door and ridded her shoes and jacket at the door before stepped into the kitchen and taking the respective chair that had been offered to her which now seemed strategically placed beside where Kat was expected to sit. There was a medley of different fresh cooked vegetables, bread and potatoes as well as steaks that had been cooked to a perfection that her father only seemed to be able to produce. The meal was delicious and there were a few words of casual talk between the three of them but she remained silent until she was spoken to taking in all that expressions between the male and her father. When it came a little later and Kat announced that he should leave she then stepped close to the door. It was nice to meet you. She stated softly before then closing the door once he was gone, saying good night to her father she passed through the house to her room. Though for the next three hours all she did was toss and turn. Pulling on a warmer pair of pants and another sweatshirt she then reached the backdoor and stepped out onto the porch. The forest was much too inviting to turn down and steps were taken into it allowing her mind and body to wander further and further into its depths. Aware that it was late at night and she was not too sure what would be lurking behind either of the bushes along the path in which she walked, though that was something that did not scare her. Palms were shoved deep into her pocket to ensure that hands remained warm as mind wandered to all the changes in her life that had been announced in one day.

[Lonestar]

After her initial need to talk, the maiden quieted down, perhaps catching the plague from him as she remained in his presence. She was awkward around him; the male could feel it thick upon the air like the scent of a fresh kill and yet, though he knew it would be best for them that he at least push further past his comfort zone so the damsel would feel comfortable, the bloke found he was stubbornly reluctant to do so. He would not; could not apologize for the way his silence affected her. Everyone had their appreciation for something; his was the lack of speech. So much could be passed between two beings without the need of verbal language or symbols. Humans had become too dependent on what mouths and papers told them rather than what their instincts said. Man are predators; hunters by nature and through that portal are closely linked to what some might call the 'beast's world' if they allowed themselves to be. Besides that, if she were to be his wife he would not change all that he was in order to simply fit the mold she had envisioned in her mind. Yes, some sacrifices would need to be made, but that would occur on both sides and Kat was willing to compromise. For the time being however, it was best as if he presented himself much like he intended to act throughout the rest of his life rather than sugarcoat the deal to impress and reassure her of the choice made by their families only to rip the solid ground that was found from beneath her once they were bound. Only a short time longer was passed at the railing, both of them staring out at the equines as they went about their normal business, settling down finally upon realizing that the drake meant them no harm today. He heard her father move to the door before the old man even opened it and was therefore already turning around slowly by the time the elder announced that dinner was ready. Passively, he followed along behind her as she led the way back to the house and then stood off to the side as she took off her coat and shoes. For the sake of his manners, the lord also discarded his shoes, with only a little protest from his brain, and arrived at the table to take a seat between the pair. Politely, he ate the well prepared meal while commenting here and there when it was needed to appease the older gentleman's whims. Often times, he found his eyes involuntarily moving to rest upon the girl, watching her as she ate for the most part without speech. Amused at the rouse which did not seem to be her usual manner of carrying herself, he manufactured a few questions that would eventually be rounded back to her, forcing an answer from lips while both of them looked on. The food was finished and the plates gathered when the deep chime from the clock sounded, catching the man's attention to where he glanced at the face. Shocked that he had been much more time here than originally intended, the shifter was quick to dismiss himself, heading towards the door with his hostess following along behind to get the door for him. As it was for me Feylnx. He replied to her courteous mannerisms while making the same sign of respect against his chest that he had upon meeting her. Glancing past the fea and into the house, he paused before walking away, directing his words to the father. I expect my parents to come calling tomorrow, perhaps around noon. They do not enjoy waiting and do not keep others doing what they despise. Have a good evening. Bowing his head, he turned and withdrew, making his way down the steps and out of the gate till veering off in the opposite direction from which he came, immersing himself instead in the foliage illuminated by the moon's rays. Because he particularly liked the shirt he was wearing and the jeans were a gift from his mother, the Native American stripped before shifting into his cat form, picking up all the apparel in his teeth then carrying it to his den for safe keeping just in case it began to rain. Tonight he was on patrol much like he was many nights. Tonight might be his last for many days or perhaps weeks to come as tomorrow the announcement of he and Feylnx's arrangement would be spread to first the elders and the Chosen number and then would be planted in the minds of the rest of the tribe. He doubted if after nightfall of the following day he would be allowed to do much more than court his bride-to-be and accept the words of congratulations. The Alpha would certainly enforce traditions: no Chosen who was due to be married would be asked to fulfill his or her regular duties from the moment of announcement till three days after the ceremony. The limitation annoyed him, however it was a necessary evil, designed to give newlyweds some time to become acquainted before they were thrust into lives that had already begun. Still, he had made it perfectly clear to his parents that he would want the date to be as soon as the Bennet's would agree to, but still left the final decision up to the woman who was involved. With thoughts filled with his coming lock down from bachelor life, it was hard for him to concentrate, but he managed some. Nothing worth investigating was hiding in the woods so the baron returned to his favorite spot where the rocky ridge held his private sanctuary after a second turn about the wood's boundaries. As he drew nearer, the sound of steps, those of a large, two-beat striding animal caught his attention. Recognizing the style as human, Kat slinked onto the path, following it back towards the village become coming upon the culprit. If at first the news that another besides himself was out and about the giants at two o-clock in the morning was a shock, learning it was the lady whose house he had just spent the evening at was even greater. Gait paused for a moment, velvety chocolate brown depths moving over her figure as tongue moved out to run over mountain lion lips. Curious if she would recognize him, the duke strode closer, keeping gaze locked upon hers for a moment, wondering about the reaction. After a brief pause in which the bloke dropped his fun game, the shift began, returning him to human form although not with the luxury of clothes. Since he was not worried about modesty, the drake did not think much of it when standing to his full height stark naked. What are you doing out so late at night? You should be resting.

[Ayrn]

The forest was one place where she felt as though she could escape. There were no restrictions here. There was no one there to tell her what to do or when to do it and she could wander until she grew bored and found her way home, which to her was simple. It was rare for her to get turned around in the place she had known best for 17 years of her life. She was comforted by the change of seasons because the ideas were all the same every year and if you really studied you would be able to tell how the next season would compare to the one of the year before. This fall the leaves had fallen all too quickly from the trees and seemed as though they were on the ground shrivelled up and dying before you knew it. The winds were cold and crisp and one of the joys of seeing the leaves clinging with hopeless desperation to the tree tops was ruined, it happened much too fast. It was clear that it was going to be a harsh winter. Already the frost turned the ground solid and right now below her feet there was little to no give in the ground. Only the sunniest of days where the small strands of light drove through the trees would thaw the ground, only to have it frozen over in the nighttime anyways. The birds and animals were scavanging wildly for their nuts and food that would carry them through the winter though it seemed to be a totally different level of panick for them. So by this time that there was already the first falling of snow it was going to a long winter. That was not something she minded though, she loved the snow and the atmosphere that it created. If only her mind would be on these things that calmed her nerves though but there was something much darker and daunting that kept taking the dark abyss of her mind over. Kat. She had yet to figure out too much about him but he had made it clear that talking was not one of his strong points, which she did not mind since she was not too much of a talker either, well except when she was nervous and in the case of today in the beginning she might admit to have been a little. When that died down a little she was a little more conservative which was a little more like her, though already she was able to see that their lives were much too seperate for them to get along too well. He was slightly aloof and proud where she was much more conserved and modest. She had heard stories about the last woman that he had been betrothed too running off with another man, one that was even rumoured to be a vampire though she did not know much about that and she made a note to talk to the girl if it ever got to that situation. She did not know what was going to be expected from her, she knew that their marriage would be nothing like the traditions that the elders spoke of though, there would be no 'honeymoon' period of three days after the marriage of getting to know one another. A small sigh left her lips, it was not as though she hoped for something like that, she didn't that was all a scam if you truly believed that was the way that your marriage was going to be. But she did plan to know the person a little more before being told that you would marry them. Perhaps get a say in the matter. She was able to hear soft footfalls behind her and swung around, she had been so deep in her thoughts that she had not noticed that she was being followed. She came face to face with a large cat, though she was not afraid, there was something that was much too familiar about it, a calming presense. She stood her ground until the cat moved and was compelled into a shift and she should have known that it was going to be Kat that then stood before her. She was well aware that he stood there naked though she did not make it awkward only raised her eyebrows a little keeping her gaze steady on him. I couldn't sleep, I had too much on my mind. A walk usually helped so that was all that she uttered before glancing to the foliage behind him and then back at him once more. Sure he was handsome and she knew that a lot of the girls that she was around would be so jealous when they found out though there was something about him that made her permanently feel a little intimidated.

[Lonestar]

Hard, hooded gaze moved over her body while the damsel offered her reply; head bobbing a bit to show he was indeed listening and had registered what she had said. If she was looking hard enough at him, she might have seen the momentarily lift of his lips to one side as the drake admired her bravery. Unlike many who would have shrunk away from a deadly predator, she had stood her ground and waited as was appropriate because running only provoked the predatory instincts within him. Furthermore, when other women, especially of their tribe because Native Americans were traditionally very conservative in that they did not like exposing their bodies, would have looked horrified at him brazenly shifting from his beast's form and into the human system free of clothing, the girl had merely lifted her chin, keeping liquids trained upon his face. Kat would not have minded if her eyes had roamed however. All of what he was would soon be hers anyway. She might as well have a sneak preview of what she would be getting in a man, but of course, she her mind would not be as crude as his own. Had the roles been reversed, the drake did not deny that he would not have chosen the modest road. Instead, the man would have looked his fill even if it offended her for it would have been among the understood risks of exposure for her. The small portion of his creature which continued to hold some weight within his mind jumped to the forefront as her pools shifted away from his own and in a gut reaction, the male stepped forward, testing the limits of his opponent to see if she was prey or predator. Mortal half consented to this testing and allowed his cat to rule the body's motions momentarily, a few steps taking the man closer in a carefully calculated invasion of the woman's space. If she backed away, she was prey, but if she remained, her predatory instincts would mark her as an equal. Either way, the game would be drawn to an immediate end; put aside for another time when it was appropriate to play again with his soon to be wife. Control was returned to the sensible being, gaze softening from the hungry stare of a mountain lion to the hard glare of man. I will accompany you until you return home for sleep. Striding forward, he allowed it to appear that he would be walking along beside her for the rest of the time while she was outdoors in his human form, but halfway between the distance, the baron began his shift; transcending gracefully into the shorter, lengthier structure of the cougar. Tongue moves over jowls as he walks past her then turns around till his shoulder was even with her leg, gaze staring out into the darkness with a constant watchfulness about him. He had no time to find the irony in him occupying her thoughts just as she had been plaguing his all night since he had left her house for now the impulsive, simple brain was directing the steps of his paws as they hit the ground to follow the essa where ever it was she strayed.

[Ayrn]

She was more confident then she would have even expected herself to be. She took a deep breath in and settled herself bravely before meeting his eyes and telling him why she was out for the night, even though it really did not have much to do with him anyways so therefore she would not have to tell him. She had to remind herself that it did indeed mean something to him now since they were told they were to be married. There was a pitt that formed in the bottom of the girls stomach that seemed to be permanently fixated there. She knew that if she would have allowed her eyes to wander along the mans body that she would have ended up blushing which she did not want to do when she was around him. She would show no signs of weakness. As he stepped closer to her probably thinking that she would back down she held her ground and only flicked hazel optics up to meet his slowly. She did not squirm in his presence like a lot of others would and briefly nodded when he told her that he would accompany her until she returned home. It was a decent gesture though she did not need a gaurdian and was positive that was the role that he was trying to play. She did not want him to think that he needed to be around her all the time to protect her, she had grown up in this world for the majority of her life and survived through it without him, or many others for that matter. She did not want to get off on a bad foot though so she agreed and started stepping forth, watching the male transform into the cat that had been around her in the first place. It was an easy transformation that she found herself to be a little jealous of, if the human world got to be too much for him then he would be able to just switch into the alter ego at any time and escape. Steps were light as they continued along the forest, she did not want to keep him feeling as though he had to follow her for much longer so she decided that her first destination would be her last and she would take the long way home. She finally felt a little more at ease by the time she reached the door. A long glance and a small smile was offered to the cat before palm slid the handle open and stepped into the warmth of the house, pulling off her jacket and her shoes, glad that her father was a deep sleeper and would have had no idea that she had been away from her room. When she finally settled into bed she was able to fall into a deep and relaxing sleep. Waking in the morning just before the sun started to rise to feed the two horses that were still looking a little sleepy. She then stepped back into the kitchen to be greeted by her father. She knew that he would go into town today to talk to Kat's family about their wedding and she was positive that they would set a date. She finished her breakfast before telling her father that she was taking her horse for a walk. He needed to keep moving without it becoming strained and she had an idea. She settled the halter over his ears before taking the wrap off his leg revealing a small portion of swelling. She walked him to the creek forcing him to step into the running water, the water flowing over the leg acting like cold hosing she slid onto his back so that she did not have to get into the water though and just made him stand there.

[Lonestar]

True to his word, the cougar shifter followed the lass along the path she took back to her home, recognizing it as the longer of many routes that lead back to the same destination. Momentarily, he wondered if this was the only pathway she knew or if she had picked it because of its excess length, but quickly dismissed the contemplation in exchange for a mind empty of all thought. Strangely enough, with her there, the bloke no longer had the marriage constantly plaguing thoughts where as when she was gone, he could not think about another subject for more than a few moments before the same came back and interrupted processes again. Forestry passed by unnoticed; it was all familiar to him anyway unlike the house he was given to live in. Before long, they came into the view of her house and the animal's eyes focused upon the back door while shoulder was kept even with her leg, that is, until they came upon the porch steps. There, he fell back, stopping all movements of limbs. He did not look at her, but once the maiden began to move past him, crown jutted out and bumped her gently upon the back of her knee with just enough force for her to feel it, but not enough for her fall because of it. Then, he instantly turned upon his heel and disappeared into the darkness; glancing back only once he was gone from her sight to make sure she had gotten into the house before continuing along his way to the alcove he used to escape. Arriving there, he remained in his beast's form and curled up on a blanket in the corner that he had placed there only for when he spent the night outdoors so he would not wake up naked on the cold rock floor the next morning. Sprawled out like most cats were while asleep, the drake closed his eyes and released a heavy breath, falling almost into an immediate sleep. He woke to the sound of birds chirping outside and groaned as he sat up, in his mortal morph as usual. Without wasting any time, he pulled on his clothes discarded from the night before and then moved out of the cavern and into the sunlight. Jaws parted in a wide yawn, liquids squinting up at the bright yellow ball in the sky before nimble limbs jumped from rock to rock as the male descended the hillside, making his way to the clearing with the stream. Once there, he splashed his face to wake himself up more than reluctantly started towards the house he kept for necessary occasions. On his way, he passed one of the other Chosen who had taken his post and bowed his head, making the sign of respect against his chest at the creature. Arriving to the front door, the man turned the knob and the door gave way to him instantly as he never bothered to lock it. Long strides brought him indoors and after the frame shut behind him, the male looked around and suddenly realized that this house would not only be keeping himself any longer, but a woman as well. Furnishings were plain as he liked them, but if she wanted she could change a few things, Kat would not care. He was never around usually anyway and saw no reason for that to change in the near future. Moving into the bedroom, he hesitated before starting first to the closet, scanning over the multitude of space left after the few clothes he had were put up and deciding that it should be enough for her. If not, surely they could get another dresser for her to keep her things in if she wanted. The bathroom would have to be adjusted for another occupant although it thankfully housed two sinks, but they could worry about those details later. The one thing the bloke was steadfast in advocating was that she not change the bed. It was made of red oak, finely carpented into a vast headboard and footboard that curved outwards at the top. There was also intricate detail along the siding that depicted one of the tribe's most popular bed time stories about a woman and the wild cat she had fallen in love with. The handy work was done by one of the local woodworkers in the reservation a year ago and was the only possession that the male really cherished. Cream sheets with warm reds and browns covered the mattress and pillows, making the room with its whitewashed walls appear more inviting. None of this had been planned for by Kat, nor did he particularly think of it, but he appreciated the personal feel it retained and for a moment, he found himself angry about having to share that one piece of property with a stranger. Brushing past this as he knew it was ridiculous; the duke retreated to his kitchen and made himself something to eat. Later that day, around four in the afternoon as was expected, his mother called him and told him to be ready for a tux fitting the next day at nine sharp in the morning then hung up without giving him any more detail than that although he knew she would have made sure all of it had been worked out in their meeting with Bennet earlier that day. The next day came and went with its uncomfortable and rather irritating three hour tux fitting and the shifter learned he was to be married in two days. He took the news as could be expected, but once his mother started talking about having them be married in a church with the entire tribe practically in attendance, the baron made his opinions known. Kat had never been particularly religious, but he would agree to the church setting for simply the sake of preserving tradition and because he was not certain of Feylnx's religious affiliation however, he firmly told his mother he did not want more than his parents there on his side. Over the years he had never really built friend sort of relationships and did not entirely feel like sharing his marriage with people he had no desire to talk to on even an occasional basis. Also, he had a feeling the woman would be pleased with a small gathering. There would be no reception; just the marriage. She could invite whomever she wanted, but Kat made it perfectly clear what he wanted from his parents in this. The duke stayed out as much as he could the next day, allowing his mother the space she needed to establish the details that she wanted to have and hoping that since she had been determined to include Feylnx in the planning that the poor girl would not be overwhelmed and could fight effectively against his mother's over the top style. They were set to be married at seven thirty during the evening hours on the third day, giving the drake plenty of time to relax before entering into a union established by his parents. Once the time came, he made his way to the church in his car and followed his mother's directions to the room he would be using for changing. Once there, he dressed in the special ordered tuxedo alone and without hitting a snag. The clothes fit him perfectly, but he was wishing he could be without them as he made his way to the front of the church where his parents and the priest were waiting. The elder man smiled at him, but it was a gesture that was not returned in kind for dark depths had turned to look down the aisle at the door to the church through which the lass was to walk at any moment with her father. Thankfully, they were not kept waiting long for the wedding march began to play from the organ as the old lady at the bench typed expertly upon the keys and foot pedals. Keeping his face placid, Kat met his bride's eyes through her veil and without looking away, took her hand from her father as he held it out to him. Finally, he was forced to break the connection as the music stopped and the pair turned to face the man with the Bible as he began to speak. After unnecessary droning on about marriage, the priest got to the point and allowed the "I dos" to be said and the rings exchanged. The one that she put upon his finger he did not recognize, but the one that went upon hers was a family heirloom, passed down from generation to generation on his father's side since the tribe began to mimic the white man in their marriage customs. Heart rate increased with surprise and unexpected anxiety as the priest then finally told him he may kiss his bride. Turning slightly wearyingly towards the practical stranger, Kat swallowed his emotions and lifted the white film from where it hung in front of her face then bent to deliver a kiss appropriate for the occasion which was devolve of all feeling. Once the ceremony was done and their parents had finished with their gushing and congratulations, Kat gently took Feylnx's arm in his own and took her to his car, holding open the door for her to get in on the passenger side before taking the bag of clothes she had brought with her and putting them in the back. Ducking, he moved into the cab on the driver's side then started to drive her back to his house that as of an hour previous could now be considered hers without speaking once.

[Ayrn]

The night was pleasent and she found herself appreciating the company, a company in which did not force her to talk and socialize with them one that was nothing more then a presence beside her. When she took a step to depart back into the house, the cougars head bumped against the back of her leg and a small smile was offered knowing the large cat would understand. With that she then stepped into the house. She fell into a deep slumber no longer plagued by the expectations that had been forced upon her in the day before. Everything was happening to soon and it was spinning out of control. She felt her grasp on the solid reality that she had come to know slipping and soon she would lose well needed sanity. She could only hope that they would allow her a little bit of time to get used to the males company and get to know him a little more before they set a date for the wedding, though those hopes were crushed the next morning as she was sitting at the table and her father joined her with a serious look on his face. He completely skipped the good morning and she small talk and dived right into the serious conversation that she knew was coming. So I talked to Kat's family last night and they want to wedding to be two days from now. I am in no position to say no. He uttered to her and mouth nearly dropped open. She forgot all her manners in the outrage. You are telling me that you did not even protest about it, do you not realize that I don't even know him. I am going to be married to a guy that I have met once in two days, isn't that rushing it a little. Why can it not be held off for a little longer? Voice was breaking up with a small rush of emotions though she did not allow it to crack her stone cold facade. Well, at least you got to meet him. He uttered. The girl rolled her eyes and quickly bit her tongue to ensure that words that were on the tip of her tongue were a little more thought out before she got herself into a lot of trouble. I can't believe you agreed to it. This ceremony is something that is supposed to be important to a girl, it will change my life forever and you guys are rushing it, I don't even have a dress. I am sure that I can't even get one this late. Lip was bit until a small tinge of crimson sparked her taste buds and a sick feeling plummetted into her gut. It was not fair. Well I am sure we can get you a great dress, you have been allowed off the tribes lands in order to prepare for the wedding so we should get started. In the next days she did not see Kat, she was much too busy finding her dress, and doing other sort of things that she knew brides did before weddings, she even made a hair appointment for the day of the wedding. It was strange for her to be out of the forest and the lands of the tribe though the fact that it was so interesting tended to keep her mind off the upcoming events a little more. The afternoon of the day that she was getting married came all too soon just in time the dress had been altered and she had just returned from having her hair done, she could not have felt more glamorous. Her hair was twisted up with small little pearls to compliment the darkness of raven coloured locks to match her dress. The intricate design of the updo was skilled and she was sure could not have been achieved by her own hands, or any other member of the tribes. A diamond pendant, that was her mothers hung around her neck though that was the only other piece of jewellry and the only piece of her mothers. Shoes were high heels although the girl was already much tall enough. Finally it was time to change into the dress, the bodice was tight and fitted and strapless, floor length and traditional of course, looking stunning on the girls slender body type. Nerves now were getting the best of her since it would be so soon and even though she did not know the man very well she still wanted to impress him and he seemed to be the type that was hard to impress or rather did not really care. It came time to leave for the Church and she appeared before her father whos jaw seemed ready to drop. A small smile appeared on features as she silently stepped up to him for a hug. The ring in which was to be placed on the man's finger was also a part of her heritage and it was from her grandmother on her fathers side. It was stunning with little diamonds laid in the band between the two rims, it was manly though and did not have anything else flashy but the small diamonds. They arrived at the church with plenty of time and she was instructed to stay behind the small room in which she would be prepared to walk down the aisle and already the butterflies in her stomach turned into elephants and she was a little jittery. The music playing throughout the church did not make her feel much better and she took her dad arm that was held out to her and was lead in the direction of the church careful to step easily and not to trip. Eyes were then focused on the man who was standing at the front of the building and a small smile was offered to him before taking her spot, a little less nervous now that she had made it all the way down the aisle. The traditional lines were run through and she agreed to the terms that were laid out before them, then came the time for him to kiss her. He lifted the veil from her features and leaned in, heart sped up, closing the last fraction of the distance their lips met, eyes fell closed in response before breaking apart, she could not say that she minded the action too much. Soon everything within the ceremony came to an end, though unlike other weddings theirs was simple and there would be reception/after party. She had packed a bag of clothes so that was gathered and he placed it in the car. Her father stopped to congratulate her and she accepted it before stepping into the car. Feeling so foreign being in a car of the man she was now to call her husband, that she had met once, and their first kiss had been at the ALTAR! He was much too silent for her liking, no recognition of what just happened was given and ivories clamp down on her bottom lip and she remained silent as well not too sure of what to say. She just wanted to do nothing more then break down into tears. She would never do that though and eyes were then cast into the scenery rolling by before they pulled up into a house. She assumed this was his house though she did not know. She stepped out of the car and grabbed her bag from the back seat of the car.

[Lonestar]

The ride to his house seemed to last forever with the road in front of him extending on and on until it felt as if the awkwardness in the cab would never be escaped. During the drive, the bloke tried not to glance over at the maiden, but allowed his resolve to falter a few times in order to sneak a peek at her expression as it looked out the window and into the darkness. Ever since they had left the church, the tension in the car had only built and the man could guess by the way the lass was acting that her anxiety had only increased. While they had been inside, things had gone by too fast for her to think too much about the moment, however now he had given her ample space to go over and over the event in her mind. It was obvious that now the rapid pace at which the marriage had been executed was beginning to affect the damsel and the lord did not have any intentions of trying to ease her into the relationship. He could tell her to relax; that everything would be ok and that she had nothing to worry about, but saying such things were not his style. After all, he had no ability to see into the future and therefore could not promise her something that might not possibly come true. Besides, he had a feeling that for her, their companionship would only be correct in every sense of the word if there was love between them and he was certain no emotion of the like could be produced. Perhaps fondness and respect, but never love. That was one hope Feylnx would have to let go of. The car slowed as the bloke took his foot off the pedal once they approached his home, slowly moving leg till shoe pressed against the brake gently and the rolling came to a complete halt. Clearing his throat suddenly, he put the shifter into the parking position then cut the engine by turning the key only to hear the sound of a car door shutting instantly afterwards. Glancing across the way, he saw that she had already gotten out of the passenger's seat and was now retrieving her things. Moving at a leisurely pace, the drake followed her lead; opening the door to get out and stand at his full height before shutting it back against the frame and locking the doors manually by turning the key in the lock in the handle. Moving in front of the grill, the shifter invaded her space and took the bag she was holding from her before starting towards the front door, tossing the keys around in his hand for the sake of amusement. The door to the house was held open for her as he stood back, watching while the essa entered before doing so himself. Quietly, he moved past her once inside, letting her get a first impression of the interior at the pace she wanted while taking her clothes to the bedroom where they were sat upon the bed. Almost immediately, he shed his jacket and shoes, leaving them in a pile by the closet door before walking back into living room where she still remained, undoing his cuff links and tie as he did so; dark brown eyes never leaving her figure. Do you cook? He asked her while jerking the shirt tail from where it was tucked into his slacks with three necessary pulls. There are some steaks in the fridge if you would like dinner. I would prepare them, but I do not cook. Feeling as if she needed some explanation for the question that might seem ordinarily outlandish, Kat again broke his silent policy to offer just that to her. Hands moved to the buttons on his shirt, plucking one after the next from the holes in which they were supposed to reside in order to hold the fabric together till none were left. Just then, he paused with hands upon hips: waiting patiently for the damsel to move first or speak so he was not alone in the efforts to make their conjoined presence at least a little more comfortable and relaxed.

[Ayrn]

There was a turning point in which she hit where she decided that she would have to just deal with the situation. There was no more her being awkward, the situation was less then ideal for the both of them but they were both on the same page with that. It was not that she disliked him it was just that she did not know him. She would give him the benefit of the doubt. She was able to feel him glance at her a couple times and that was the only recognition that she got that he had even noticed that she was indeed in a wedding dress. Though that did not matter she did not need to hear him tell her that she looked good, she could see it in her fathers face and the rest of the people that had come to the wedding though it had been a small gathering. She stepped out of the car almost immediately, blame it a little on the nerves and the sudden wants to get out of the dress and into some clothes that were a little more comfortable. Had it been the wedding that she had envisioned for herself as a little child she would have thought that she would have wanted to stay in the stunning dress for as long as possible. He took the bag from her as she stepped into the house and eyes washed over the interior. It was homey enough and she took a liking to it. It was similiar to the house in which her and her father had lived in, though she knew that a lot of the houses within the tribe were almost the same. As she stepped into the living room he went to the bedroom to drop her clothes off in there, she made a note that she wanted to change before anything happened but would wait for him to get out of the room in order to do so. When he told her that he did not cook and that she would have to cook if she wanted something to eat she nodded. She was not hungry since her father had forced her to eat before they had left for the church. Well I already ate, but if you are hungry I can make something. The offer was left on the table as she then moved into the room in which he inhabited, brushing the males arm as she walked into the bedroom. Knowing the small contact would catch his attention. A bold move was about to be made, though she knew that it was an essential one. One that bound the woman to a man in a deeper level then marriage, a tradition she knew that she was bound to take part in. Stepping into the bathroom that adjoined the room she realized that she would not be able to get out of her dress alone. The zipper was strategically at the back and well out of her reach and she did not want to risk harming the fabric. Instead her attention was then moved to her hair, the raven locks were untwisted from their updo and long ebony locks fell over her shoulders in a silken mass. She then moved to the door of the bedroom vocals reach out to the male who had undone his shirt and stood in the middle of the living room. Would you be able to help me? I can not reach the zipper. It seemed to be a normal and fairly routine favour to ask for, but she knew that this time it would turn into much more. As he moved to her she turned so her back faced him, he was close enough that she was able to hear the breathing of the man. As the zipper was undone she did not catch the fabric like one might expect, she allowed it to fall clean from her body. Revealing a lacy strapless black bra and matching pair of underwear. The young girls body was fit and muscles hardened most of her entire frame. Native American heritage assured that she adorned a tan year round though the Irish lines caused her to be more refined then the other girls of her age. Dainty features matched with a slender physique, something most men would never be able to turn away. In a bold effort once the action was complete she stepped gracefully free of the dress aware of how close she was to him as bare skin was pressed up against his chest as her back came in contact with well chiseled framework. With one quick move body was pivotted to facing him, the entirety of body exposed to her new husband. Hand was then raised to run along the males abdomen trailing just above his pants line. Hazel optics then glance upwards since he was much taller then her to try to determine his thought pattern. She did not give much too thought about how horribly awkward it was standing there nearly naked in front of a man she barely knew, but she better get used to it. She had nothing to hide. Mimicking the action at the church she stood on her tip toes until lips met his a lot harder then had been allowed in the church. Before anything else continued she spoke. I am yours, Kat. She murmered nearly inaudibly.