Guardians of the North

[barefootgirl69]

Moira lay in his arms, her heart still pounding wildly in her chest, wisps of hair still plastered to her face as she tried to calm her breathing. No one had ever told her that it would be so amazing! She had heard the whispers of lady’s in waiting, she had heard giggles of the maids as they spoke of coupling with others, but no one had told her that she would never want something like this to end.

Once her body calmed, she could feel a chill on her backside and it made her shiver. She tried to snuggle a little closer to Aravir. Her husband. She was truly his now in name and deed. She blushed as she thought of how she had wantonly begged him not to stop, how she had called his name. What must he think of her? At the moment, it seemed that he had not heard her, for he said nothing against her.

“Aravir? Are you sleeping? Would you mind terribly if we moved beneath the blankets?” Moira whispered into his chest, her mouth next to him. He hadn’t moved at all, and she didn’t wish to wake him, so she lay quietly and thought about what would be taking place tomorrow. He had mentioned leaving, though she didn’t see how they would be able to go so quickly. Then again, he was the one who was familiar with going to and fro to war, and she would trust him, as she had when she made the bargain with him.

Sighing, she thought about her father. Soon, news would reach him, and he would be told of the treaty that had been made with Nordenheim. Would he be pleased? What if he were still too ill to understand? Moira knew that the advisors could not be trusted, and she just as concerned about her duplicitous cousin. She had hated leaving the kingdom in their hands as she attended to her father’s wishes. Now, she didn’t know when she would return. If she’d ever return. What would her father say when he was informed of her marriage? Stifling a cry, Moira wondered if he were even well again.

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

Aravir heard her but he was lost in thought. He had to do something to prove that she had indeed lost her maidenhead tonight and their marriage had been consummated. Oh he was sure those closest to her would know for certain but that would not be enough to convince everyone. Then he smiled as an idea struck him. He leaned down and kissed his wife, he loved thinking that, and quickly rose up.

"Why certainly we can get under the covers my dear, but I also need to do something first that may seem a little strange to you so I will explain it." He took the nightgown they had actually been coupling on over to his desk and retrieved a dagger from the drawer. Holding it up he unsheathed it and showed it to her as he spoke. "Normally on a maidens wedding night when her husband takes her for the first time like I just did with you," he smiled at her lovingly, "There is some resistance inside of her that he must overcome causing her to bleed. This has been come to be known as her maidenhead and proof that she is unspoiled. Now I do not doubt for a second that you are not," he assured her. "What I believe has happened is that it was broken because of the way you ride astride a horse. I have heard it has occurred with several other woman who have done just the same as you have," he smiled at her.

He began to make a small cut in the palm of his hand along a small scar he already had. "Our problem is that with no blood there is no proof of consummation of our marriage. However I think this should suffice." He rubbed the now flowing blood into the fabric creating a reasonable stain then wrapped his hand in a small piece of cloth. It had not been a deep cut and would not be noticeable by tomorrow, however he would wear gloves for awhile until it was healed fully. That was why he had cut along a scar, it would not show up when healed and no one would be the wiser.

He then took it to the door and opened it a crack and sure enough there was her lady in waiting. He smiled and handed her the garment with his other hand and she smiled and curtsied and hurried off to proclaim it to the castle proper as he shut the door again.

Turning back to the bed he got under the covers with his wife and snuggled against her. "Now with that duty done, tell me why you got so sad Moira. Do not think just because I had things on my mind that I was not paying attention to you, you will always be first and foremost in my mind."

 

[barefootgirl69]

Settling into the bed and pulling the blankets onto her lap, she sat up in the bed watching him as he took the knife and cut himself, explaining his reasons as he did so. This was the proof that others had spoken of, to make sure she was virginal on her wedding night. It was incredible that he was taking this position, instead of accusing her as some other husbands might. She filled with relief. Maybe he wasn’t such a bad person after all, even though he was still resorting to form of trickery. She sighed again. Confused, she wasn’t sure what to think of him any more.

After he climbed into the bed and snuggled next to her, she felt her body relax a bit. Her mind went back to her thoughts earlier and a tear trickled from her eye. She couldn’t tell him everything, even now after he had faked a proof of her maidenhead. But, she could share some of what she had been thinking.

“Aravir, I told you that my father had sent me here. I didn’t want to come except for the fact that I would be helping my people. With my father being so ill, I didn’t want to leave him, he is all that I have. My mother has passed, of course, when I was a child; my father has been the one thing in my life that has been constant. I don’t know that I will see him again since I’ve bargained to be wed.”

Sitting up in the bed and looking down on him, Moira continued. “The advisors to my father cannot be trusted. This is the first time that we have been in need of help, and I believe something treacherous is happening. I don’t know how, but I think I know who, and why. I think this is my cousin’s way of seeking the throne for himself.”

Her cousin, Prince Blaan, had considered her a rival since their childhood, angered that she – a girl – would be queen. It occurred to her, now that she had wed without consent, that he would indeed get the very thing he had wished for. But, she couldn’t tell that to Aravir – not yet. According to him, he was looking forward to ruling that kingdom with her. That is why he is so willing to go to fight for it. If her father passed, Prince … she didn’t even want to think about that right now.

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

Aravir could tell that she was still holding something back from him, but that everything she was telling him was the truth. Still had he not just secured her kingdom for her by their marriage? Obviously they were still Prince and Princess now, but in time she would become the Queen of her land and he would rule beside her. His brother may still hold a grudge against him but Aravir could not see any woman willing to marry him yet alone give him children, so his and Moira's would have a solid claim on both kingdoms. Who knew, within a few generations they could even be united.

For now though he would lead his army into battle and if he had any troubles with the advisers well he had a plan for that. "I have already planned for that my love. Those documents you signed agreeing to the terms for the troops, also stated a few terms about those troops. The main ones being that your kingdom would keep us fed while we are in your lands as well as our animals, arms and armor would be repaired by our own workman but any materials needed would be provided for by you, etc. All standard I assure you," he smiled. "What was not standard and inserted right towards the end is that the troops would only take orders from myself or a person I placed in command, and I would only deal with you present at all meetings."

He waited to see if she was as smart as he thought she was and got the implication of those two stipulations. It would not stop the advisors trying to cause mischief of course, but what he had done was effectively taken the army he was bringing out of their control and kept it in his and Moira's.

 

[barefootgirl69]

Moira listened to him speaking of the things that were in the agreements they had signed as she fought to keep her eyes open. It had been a long time since she had slept in her own bed, a long time since she had a decent night’s rest. Before coming here, there had been weeks of discussions between her father and the advisors prior to even talking to her. Then, the journey here, and how uncomfortable it had been. Yes, last night the room that she had been given here in Nordenheim had been a luxury, with a fine bed and coverings, but still, she did not sleep well. Frankly, she was exhausted.

Laying close to Aravir after their time together, she was completely relaxed and ready to drift off when she realized what he had just said. The army sent from here would be under the command of Nordenheim – of Aravir, most likely - not the advisor’s or her cousin…and, just as important to her, she would be there at any meeting he was at.

She leaned her head back to look into his face, “Aravir. You had done well. You have made sure to keep command of your army. That was a very smart move.” Touching his cheek, she continued, “and you do me great honour at having me present at meetings.” She didn’t know she was getting such a good and wise husband, but she was very glad that things were as they were.

Closing her eyes, Moira let out a deep sigh and fell asleep in his arms, content in all things

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

Aravir was glad that he had surprised his wife and that she had approved. He had never been planning to turn the running of His army over to anyone else in the first place anyhow. They were going on a rescue mission, which by definition meant that the incumbent Generals were not fit to lead. If they were they would not need rescuing.

Now it looked like it would work in his and his wife's favor and could become a very serious bargaining tool if things got as bad as Moira thought. Still now was not the time to be thinking of such things.

He wrapped his arms around his wife then pulled the covers up over them both. They had a busy day tomorrow, but right now he enjoyed the feeling of his wife in his arms, a warm bed and the thought of his whole life ahead of him with this woman beside him. Smiling contentedly for the first time in a long time he drifted off to sleep with a goofy grin on his face.

 

[barefootgirl69]

Moira stirred in her sleep but couldn’t move…something held her tight and she fought against it. She tried to turn over but her arm was trapped next to her body, it seemed the only thing that she could move were her feet. She began kicking her feet and pushing them against the bed in an effort to move away from whatever or whomever was holding her prisoner. After several minutes of futility, she came wide awake and realized she must have been dreaming. She was pinned beneath Aravir’s arm as he slept heavily. Listening to his breathing as her heart rate slowed, she contemplated how she could slip out from under it without waking him. Lifting it slowly, she slid down until she was no longer confined, the sat on the edge of the bed to look around.

The fire was slowly burning out, so she went near to warm herself and, spying a cruse of water on the table, she poured a drink. The dawn will soon be here, she thought, and with it a new day. This is the day we are to leave the castle. She considered the things that she would need to ready that were still in the room she was given upon her arrival. Should she take her lady with her? Sir Niall would come, of course. But, she should ask Aravir, first.

Sitting in the chair where he had sat earlier to watch her, she looked back to him still asleep on the bed. Then, blushed to remember what had happened earlier, just now remembering that she was naked. No wonder her body was chilled.

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

Aravir stirred in his sleep and reached across his bed, searching for something that wasn't there. Groaning a little he moved further and further towards the opposite side before he opened his eyes and blearily looked around. There was something missing he was certain, but his sleep addled mind could not place it. Then he remembered and his eyes opened wide and he sat up, suddenly wide awake. He looked around in panic searching for Moira.

He sighed in relief when he finally saw her sitting in his chair beside the fire. The sigh turned into a low whistle when he saw that she was naked and a wide smile spread across his face. "Well if you are going to look like that every morning wife, I think I am going to like married life."

He got up and walked over to her and kissed her, noticing how cold she was at the same time. Leaving her sitting in the chair he threw a few more logs on the fire and then grabbed a fur off the base of the bed and wrapped it around her shoulders. "You know while I appreciate the wake up show, you should take care not to freeze my love. After all what good is looking at a gorgeous body if it is too frigid to touch."

He chuckled as he kissed her again then went back and grabbed a fur for himself as well. Mornings were always a bit cold here and he wondered what they were like where they were going. "So why are you up so early Moira? Anxious about today? Do not worry, my brother can not spoil anything. I have already given the orders to the army and they would have prepared yesterday as soon as the wedding took place. 1000 men will be waiting for us along with support personnel all mounted and ready to go at ten this morning in the courtyard."

Smiling at her he reached down and offered her his hand. "Now that is several hours away and it is even several hours until we need to be up to break our fast. Why don't you come back to bed and get warm and we can discuss what is bothering you, or perhaps find something enjoyable to do until then," he smiled cheekily.

 

[barefootgirl69]

Moira heard him stirring and turned in time to see him coming towards her, his nakedness obvious by the light of the fire. Not saying a word as he kissed her and turned to add wood to warm the room. She was getting ready to stand when he turned to bring a fur to cover her with.

“Thank you.” She whispered as he placed the fur around her cold shoulders. She didn’t know how long she had been sitting there, but the cold seemed to have seeped into her bones. She pulled it tight around her as he returned with one of his own wrapped around him.

Moira was already blushing that he had awaken and found her sitting naked before the fire. It only deepened at his innuendo, even though he was truthful that it would be warmer in bed…under the furs, of course.

“I…I couldn’t sleep. Then, I sat here to consider what I needed to prepare for the journey. My things are still in the other room, of course…I think. I don’t know, but I assume they are.” She knew she was rambling, but couldn’t stop. “I need to prepare and I need to know if my lady will be allowed to join me. I’m assuming my advisor will be there. Everyone else has been sent back to Valgaard to prepare and wait for us.”

She stood and moved toward the bed as she spoke. If they were to have a long journey, and there was time to rest, then she should get as much rest as possible, or at least as much as Aravir would allow her.

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

Aravir realized that perhaps now was not the time to continue on from lasts nights activities no matter how pleasant they had been. They would have plenty of time to get acquainted with each other on the road and explore each others likes and dislikes then. For now it seemed like his wife needed some reassurances.

"Of course your lady can come, but only if she is an accomplished rider or she will have to ride with the supply train I am afraid. I know how good of a rider you are my dear and your advisor and I have planned appropriately. We do not want to be on the road for any longer than we need to be so we will be traveling light and quickly. Your things will come in the train except for what you truly need. I suggest several changes of good sturdy clothes, a good cloak, one or two minor pieces of jewellery and a set of good clothing in case we need to present ourselves at some nobles house."

He smiled at her reaction. "Yes I know it is not much but it all must fit on one horse. I will also see to it that you are outfitted with some weapons if you do not have any of your own. I have been told that you are a bit of a rebel when it comes to this sort of thing and have learned to defend yourself rather well. yet another reason I found myself drawn to you," he confessed.

Wrapping his arms around her he pulled her in close and kissed the top of her head. "I have a plan I will discuss with you later my dear, but for now why don't you get a few more hours sleep. I will wake you when it is time to get ready."

 

[barefootgirl69]

Moira snuggled close to him in the bed and considered what things she had brought with her as she fell into a fitful sleep. This time there was no dreaming, and she woke still wrapped in his arms without flailing about like she was trapped.

She heard to door open and pulled the fur up around her shoulder. Walking in with a tray was a servant and Lady Annis, her lady in waiting, another servant followed who was carrying clothing. As Lady Annis watched, one walked to the changing screen and draped a dress over the top, while the other servant left bread and cheese and some smoked meats of the table along with a pitcher of ale. Just a quickly and quietly as they entered, the servants left.

Moira was blushing at having been in the bed, naked no less, while they had come in. This was the routine, but she was a married woman, with her naked husband beside her! Lady Annis went to open the drapes and then turned to leave. Before she reached the door, though, Moira sat up and whispered urgently, “Annis!” she hoped not to wake Aravir. When Annis came near, she said, “I hope that was my riding outfit! We are leaving sometime before midday, be prepared with all of our things. You will follow with the supplies. I will meet you in the other room soon.” Nodding her head, Lady Annis slipped out the door, closing it gently behind her.

Laying back down, Moira turned to her side facing Aravir and watching him breath. It was beyond her how a trained soldier could sleep through all of the activity that just went on in the room.

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

As soon as the door had begun to open Aravir had been awake, but he had known by the smells and noises that it had just been servants bringing food, so he had not moved preferring to remain snuggled up with his wife. As they entered he felt his wife tense up and then remembered that they were both naked and she would not have experienced this before. He was almost tempted to 'Wake up' and stretch, allowing the furs to drop off them to see what she would do but he decided not to. Teasing like that could come later.

She spoke to someone called Annis who he assumed was her lady in waiting and made sure that the clothes that had been brought in for her had been her riding clothes and that she would meet her in her old rooms soon.

Once Annis had left Aravir could tell that Moira had turned and was studying him. Perhaps he should pretend to wake, but that would not give her a true picture of the man she had married and might lower her opinion of him in her eyes. No he wanted her to know the true him good and bad so...

"Good morning again my love," he said smiling without opening his eyes or changing his breathing. "I trust you slept well. If you are going to explain things to Lady Annis I suggest we eat first while I explain things to you, then you will at least have some idea as to my plans."

Opening his eyes he leaned up and kissed her. "Although perhaps, and I am loathe to suggest this, we should get dressed first. Seeing you naked sends my thoughts onto other pleasant ideas and I am afraid we would never get around to talking about my plans for the army," he smiled.

 

[barefootgirl69]

His voice startled her as she watched him. Her eyes widened and she had a sharp intake of breath as she heard him speak. Pretending to sleep, and then the gall to kiss her! Her temper took over. Pushing away from him, her hand on his chest, Moira sat up, “You’ve been awake this entire time? Why did you not say something, why pretend to sleep?”

The furs had fallen across their hips when she sat up, but she didn’t feel the coolness that still lingered a bit in the room. Her body had reacted though, her nipples tightened into little buds. “You’re right, Aravir, we should dress and start our day, and stop lying abed pretending sleep so that you can … so you can…sleep.” Disgusted, she got off the bed and walked across the room to the dressing screen.

Once she was behind it, she started to dress, all the while talking to him. “I think Lady Annis should ride with the supplies. Where will Sir Niall be? I’m assuming I’ll be allowed to ride my own horse. Where will we sleep?” She said as she came from around the screen and stopped, standing still watching him. He looked magnificent, and it took her breath away. Those were the arms that held her close all night, the hands that touched her, the lips that kissed her. She shook her head as if to make the images disappear. There was no way she was going to allow thoughts like that to get in the way of what they were about to do.

As she listened to him she poured some ale for them both then sat in his chair, waiting in front of the fireplace for him to join her. When they were finished, she would return to her previous room to give details to Annis and make sure all was ready. Sir Niall should be nearby, she would have to speak with him as well. Since Prince Aravir was now her husband, the knight would take orders for the time being from him, although his fealty was sworn to her.

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

Aravir chuckled under his breath at his wife's response. He was not sure exactly why she was getting so mad but he had a few ideas. Still he enjoyed the view of her walking towards the changing screen, her bare buttocks swaying with her anger and he sighed when she slipped behind it cutting off his view.

Getting up himself, he made his way to the dresser and began to remove his own clothes while answering her questions. "I pretended sleep because you seemed a little tense when your Lady appeared my dear. Maybe it had to do with us being naked together in the same bed, I don't know," he chuckled a little as he laid out his things, "But I decided it might be a little less awkward if I just laid there until she left. Perhaps I was wrong and should have sat up an afforded her a nice view of us together," he teased.

He began dressing in his practical riding garb. Leather trousers, plain white undershirt and a blue top with the symbol of his rank stitched into it. "As for your other concerns, Of course you will be riding your own horse. I see no reason why you should not. Sir Niall shall ride with us at the front although I do wish to talk with the man and I may want to test his mettle. If I am going to be leaving the safety of my wife to someone I want to know what that someone is capable of."

He smiled as Moira sat down and he finished dressing and joined her. "Lady Anna should definitely ride with the supply train if that is your wish. I did not know if she was a good horsewoman so have not picked a horse for her but our wagons are most comfortable and she will be well protected I assure you." He took a drink of his ale and looked at her. How much of his plan should he reveal? Could he trust this woman he had really only just met and really that he knew nothing about?

Yes! He loved her and he had already lied enough to her. He would not make a habbit of it. "As for sleeping arrangements, well on the way to your kingdom we will travel the kings road so will be able to stop at towns and sleep in Inns. I would hope you would join me in my bed, but if you wish you may have your own room." He could not keep a little bit of hurt from his voice when he said that.

"Once we are in Valgaard however we will be camping a lot more and will be sleeping on cots and in tents. We will share a tent of course but unless you like sleeping on the ground, it will be hard to sleep together. The army never did make a camp bed for two," he smiled. "One thing I do need to do before we go however is to talk to both you and Sir Niall together Moira. After your revelation last night about your father's advisors and your cousin I think I might have to change my plan's a little. Instead of heading straight to the capital it may be wise to win a battle first and get the people behind us, or more appropriately you my dear," Aravir smiles and places a hand on hers.

"We are going to make you the savior of the land. You are going to be seen to lead this army, not me, and you are going to rescue your people. They are not going to care that you are using foreign men to do it, because by the time we finish you won't have just an army of foreign men you will also be leading Valgaardian men into battle as well." Smiling he finished off his ale and food and stood up. "Then we will see what these Advisors and Cousin can do to the hero of the people," he laughed.

Helping her up he led her towards the door. "Now I believe you have a few things to do as do I. However I would like to meet you back here at ten to talk to you and Sir Niall and to present you with a small present." Bending over he kissed her before opening the door. "I will see you then Moira." With a warm smile he turned and walked off towards the parade grounds and the armory. He had a lot to do and little time to accomplish it.

 

[barefootgirl69]

Moira had sat in stunned silence as he told her of his plan to win favor with the kingdom, thereby thwarting any plans that her cousin and the advisors had dreamed up. She had assumed that Aravir was a fierce warrior, but she had no clue that his most fearsome attribute was his keen thinking.

After watching him walk down the hallway, her heart swelling with joy that she had made the right decision, and with something else that she had never felt and couldn’t describe, Moira found her way to the chamber where she had stayed upon her arrival. Opening the door, she found Lady Annis supervising the maids in folding and packing her things. Laid out on the bed was the same attire she had worn as she travelled this direction, freshly washed and ready to be used. Picking it up, she sent one of the maids in search of Sir Niall. Aravir wanted to speak to them both, and there was no better place than the privacy of the chamber.

As she quickly walked behind the changing screen, Moira talked to Annis telling her of the plans that Aravir had laid out for their travels and what would happen one they once again reached Valgaard. She didn’t go into his details about his plans, just that she would be with him while Lady Annis was in the rear, safe from danger. When Annis protested about the danger of the princess riding in the front, Moira shushed her.

“There is no danger because Aravir will protect me. He is very wise and efficient, and I do not fear.” She said, as she stepped out from behind the screen dressed in an emerald green gown made in such a way that she could ride astride her horse. Princess Moira was not given to riding in the manner with bespoke a lady’s good manners, much to her father’s consternation. Handing her other gown to a servant for packing, she did not realize that her eyes sparkled as she spoke of Aravir, that her voice changed to something akin to affection for him…but, Lady Annis noticed and she smiled knowingly.

“What are you smiling for? Are you happy to be on your way back? Is there someone special that you miss?” Moira asked.

“Nay…I was smiling at the light in your eyes as you spoke of your husband.” Came her reply.

Gasping in disbelief, the princess turned away so none would see her face as she smiled to herself. Hearing a knock on the door, Moira walked over to open it pleased to see that Sir Niall was on the other side. “Please, come in. I hope that you’ve slept well, and I hope that you are ready to leave shortly. Prince Aravir would have a word with us before we depart, and I thought I would take a moment to go over some things with both you and Lady Annis before he gets here.”

Dismissing the maids, Moira moved to a chair and asked them to sit with her. “Prince Aravir has determined a way to ensure that Prince Blaan does not find favor with the people of the kingdom. I did not realize he would have such wisdom,” she paused considering his reasoning behind the lies he told his father about her in order to wed. Maybe he wasn’t a liar, but very shrewd. “He does not know that, because I’ve married with my father’s permission, I’ve given up my claim to the throne. If my father has passed, Prince Blaan is to be king – we must stop that – but, more importantly, Aravir must not find out. The most important thing to me is that we win the battles against our enemies. I can only pray that my father will live long enough to see what a fine man Aravir is, and that he will find favor in my father’s eyes.”

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

Aravir walked from his chambers straight to the barracks parade grounds. Here he found his troops preparing to march and he walked among them easily, chatting with them and easing the tensions he felt in a few. Unlike other leaders he had met he did not keep himself apart from his men. These were people that fought and died for their Kingdom and they deserved his admiration and respect.

He made sure that the equipment he had ordered was being distributed and that the wagons were being properly loaded with supplies. He wouldn't put it past his brother to order that he get short changed on them. Everything seemed in order though and after talking to his generals about his plans to depart, he left them in charge and went off to the armory.

Upon entering he made his way to a small locked room. In here was a small set of armor and sword among other things. He hastily packed them all in a chest and easily lifted what should have taken two men to carry and proceeded to take it down to his own supply wagon. He then took out and wrapped something in a cloth and headed towards Moira's chambers.

Everything seemed to be proceeding on schedule. He would have enough time to talk with his wife's advisor and then they could depart. Knocking on her door he waited to be invited in and smiled at Moira before shaking hands with Sir Niall. "Well met Sir. I am afraid this will just be a quick meeting as we must depart soon, but I wanted to get a feel for the man my wife has entrusted to advise her when she despises all others."

He smiled to take any sting out of his words. "Please don't take that the wrong way as I consider that a compliment. I may not have known her long but already I know she is a shrewd judge of character. She did marry me after all," he laughed. "Still I need to know what your feeling is on the situation in Valgaard and how best my men and I should be put to use? I take it Moira has already told you of the first step in my plan. What are your thoughts on it?"

 

[barefootgirl69]

Moira had sent Lady Annis to the housekeeper to request a special luncheon be prepared to take away for herself and Aravir in order to keep them from stopping overly long so soon after setting out on their journey. The troops and those in charge would be taken care of as they always were, and they could ride to catch up to them.

Sir Niall had listened carefully to what she had told him of Aravir’s plan, gravely nodding his head at times. She was just about to ask him what his thoughts were when there was a knock on the door, and Aravir entered to greet them.

“Your Highness” Sir Niall started to speak. “I have been entrusted to keep Princess Moira safe on our journey here for more than even she knows.” He looked over at her before speaking again to Aravir. “Even though he has been ill, King Reamund is not unaware of the betrayal that is going on within his kingdom among his advisors. His very reason for sending the princess was to get her to safety. It was during our journey that his closest knights are working to find out those who are loyal to him, and those who would stand behind his brother’s son, Prince Blaan. He would only stand to inherit the kingdom upon the death of Her Highness, Princess Moira.”

Moira sat in stunned silence. She had no idea that her father was aware of the subterfuge that was going on. She had been infuriated that he was keeping the advisors close to him and sending her here, but now she understood why. Her heart filled with love for him, and again she hoped to see him soon.

Continuing, Sir Niall spoke, “The knights who have been to battle are totally faithful to the king, but we don’t know who in the keep has betrayed his trust. I think that your plan is wise in order to gain the trust of the people, their loyalty.”

When he finished, he simply stood and waited for further orders. Although he was sworn to Princess Moira, he also understood that Aravir was now her husband. He had heard of the Warrior Prince and had respected him greatly, but what had garnered further respect for the him was the way that he had ensured that he helped the princess while also getting what he wanted…the princess herself. There was no way that Aravir would harm her or allow anyone else to do so.

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

Aravir smiled. So it seemed everyone had ulterior motives in this little endevour. He had wanted to help Valgaard but he had also wanted a wife. King Reamund had wanted help but he had also wanted to keep his daughter safe. Sir Niall had wanted to keep Moira safe and Advised while at the same time ensuring that no assassination plots were launched against her. Then finally Moira had come seeking help while at the same time knowing that trouble was brewing in her own capital.

"Well then I think we may have to change some parts of my plan then. I was hoping to visit the capital after our first victory, presenting ourselves at court and discussing the terms of our help with whoever is in charge at the moment and announce our marriage. However if things are as bad as you say, perhaps we should keep that quiet at the moment. We can present ourselves at court and if they object to you accompanying me I can always bring up that without you there will be no army."

He chuckled and then got serious again. "I am a little worried that there are people in the capital that may try to harm Moira and her father, but as long as we are careful and vigilant it should not be a problem. I refuse to allow my wife to be murdered before we have time to properly start our life together."

"First though we should get ready to go. I have had your horses saddled and they are waiting in the courtyard. First though I have something for you Dearest."

Aravir picked up the bundle he had brought in and laid it across the table and gently unwrapped it. Inside was a slender sword that although sheathed looked like it had been forged for her. "This used to be my training sword when I was young," he said proudly. "It may look small and thin, but I can assure you it is made from the finest metal and has been sharpened to a razors edge. I want you to wear it at all times just in case and I will give you lessons each night on how to defend yourself. The first person that attacks you is going to be in for a rude shock my love," he smiled. "Now if there are no further questions I suggest we set off. The men should be ready by now and I do not want to keep them waiting too long."

 

[barefootgirl69]

Moira sat there pale and stunned by all that Sir Niall had told Aravir. She hadn’t realized that her father was aware of things, and she didn’t know that he actually knew more about it than she did. She understood now why he had sent her here on this mission. Could it be that he had also hoped that she would be wed once she had been introduced to the Crown Prince? Had he intended for her to stay away from the kingdom, from him? Well, if that was his intent, he would be surprised to see her coming home, alongside her husband!

Hearing the door close as Sir Niall exited, she looked up as Aravir laid something on the table. Her eyes took in the small sword as he spoke, and she reached out her hand to lift it. It was heavy, but not overly much. She pulled it from its sheath and saw the sharpness of the blade before glancing up at Aravir. “Yes, of course. We need to be going.” Standing, she placed the sword back in the sheath and laid it back on the table while she went to get her cloak. “Aravir? Do you think we can start those lessons tonight?”

There was no way that she would not fight if need be. Not only were they going to war to stop others from entering her kingdom, but going to war to stop it from within. She was glad that she hadn’t known this from the beginning or she would not have been so level-headed in the negotiations for troops. She simply would have given whatever he wanted and begged on her knees for help. Her father had been wise not to entrust her with the information.

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

Aravir heard the slight tremble in her voice and realized that most of the news she had just heard had been a surprise to her. Well that must have come as a shock to her but she was taking it rather well and even wanting her lessons to start immediately. He was proud of her and thought he knew why she wanted them. She was not going to shy away from any fighting that needed to be done. She wanted to protect her people and her kingdom.

"Very well my dear, but don't expect to be a dashing swords-woman by the time we get to our first fight. I will be able to teach you the basics but it will be several months before you become anywhere near proficient enough to truly be called a swords-woman. Still they do say battle is the best teacher."

He watched as she walked back to him fastening up her cloak and he then showed her how to buckle on her sword and walk with it properly so she did not bump into things. then taking her arm he led her out to the parade grounds and helped her mount her horse. The last few stragglers were just mounting up after checking the supply train and then the signal was given that all was in readiness. Aravir mounted his huge war horse and then gave the order to move out.

The whole line started forward at a leisurely walk. The vanguard would be leaving the city walls while the last of the supply train was still leaving the castle. It would take them half a day to get to their first stop, a large village barely three miles from the capital. It was there the actual army would split off with it's supply train tommorow. It would then travel to the border at a fast trot while the supply train made it's way there at it's slower pace. The army should have won it's first victory and liberated the first city in time to loop back and regroup with the supply train again for the trip to the capital of Valgraad.

At the head of the army Aravir looked over at his wife and smiled. Soon the liberation of her kingdom would commence.

 

[barefootgirl69]

From the moment he buckled the sword on her, the relationship changed. She wasn’t simply his wife, but his partner – and they were on a mission together. Moira watched him as they rode side by side. His horse was magnificent, and he rode like he was born to it. It would be interesting to see how he handled the horse in battle, though she hardly expected to be a spectator at that point.

Moira spoke up for the first time since they left. “Aravir, I’ve never thanked you for being so ready to help us. I know that you will say that you wanted me as your wife, but I can’t help but think you would have done it nonetheless.” She blushed as he looked at her. “I’m not saying that you are simply one who likes to make war, please don’t think that. I do believe you would have wanted to help because you are… you are a man who likes to help others.” She knew that it sounded silly. It sounded silly to her own ears, but it made sense in her head as she had thought about it. She wasn’t used to being at a loss of words to anyone, but it seemed unless she was angry with Aravir, she found it hard to say all the things that were in her mind.

She closed her mouth, it was better to say nothing at all than to look like the simpleton that he had told her father she was. King Valdemar had never even seen her, and so could not make his own mind up about his new ‘daughter’. He must think that Aravir had lost his mind to want to marry. It was something that still angered her, so maybe it would be best not to continue thinking about it, and to concentrate on the things that were happening at present.

As they journeyed, Moira had plenty of time to consider all that had taken place since she had left Valgaard. She had left a maiden, and was returning a wife. Letting her mind drift to the previous evening, she could feel the warmth flood her body as images came to mind of their naked bodies pressed together, his mouth on hers. She felt a different kind of heat as she remembered how he had felt, and how he had made her feel last night before they slept, both fully satiated.

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

He had watched her as she spoke and knew what she meant and it was true. Even if she had not agreed to his terms he would still have taken his men to help her and her Kingdom. He had always had to help out whenever he could and his brother had always called it a weakness. He would have argued against it saying a weak Valgaard would be ripe for a takeover later without thinking of the consequences. If Valgaard was conquered who was to say whatever force was attacking would stop there and not then turn it's sights on them.

Still Aravir had his own reasons as well. He could not see people suffer when he could help. Why should the poor and weak die when he had troops that could protect them. He believed that was what a leader was for, not sitting in a castle collecting taxes.

He had seen something similar in Moira from the moment he had seen and heard her pleas. It was one of the reasons he had wanted her. It was also one of his regrets that he had not been able to introduce her properly to his father before they left and now he probably never would. He was a realist. His fathers health was fading fast and with him out of the kingdom for an extended amount of time, his brother would probably speed it along and have himself crowned King long before he got back. In fact he would not be surprised if he was not welcomed back at all.

Still he had his new wife to comfort him and she was just that. A woman that could match him intellectually, a beauty second to none and so warm and passionate in the bedroom. When he thought of their wedding night and all he still had to teach her he smiled and his member began to awaken.

Quickly thinking of something else (riding with a swollen member was not pleasant) he began to recite the amount of troops he had and the amount of rations they would need and the pace they would need to set. It worked and it subsided and he was able to look on her again. She looked a little flushed and distracted and he wondered what she was thinking about but he left her alone with her thoughts for now. Tonight they could talk more and perhaps discuss more pleasant things as well.

Damn. Again he started to recite his list. It was going to be a long afternoons ride.

 

[barefootgirl69]

Moira was lost in her thoughts for most of the ride and very quiet. There was no sense in talking, especially when she knew that Aravir must be planning and reviewing things, for he was silent, as well. There wasn’t much activity until it was time to rest their mounts along a stream that was flowing along the road.

Aravir helped her dismount and then took both horses to drink. As the leader, he refused to have a squire or a knight take care of these duties in his stead. By the time he returned, he found Moira sitting on a log near the wood eating an apple. When she saw him, she reached into the satchel that she had slung across her back, pulling out three more – handing one to him, and feeding the others to the horses, taking the reins to her horse as she did so.

“I had the kitchen pack a few things for the trip today. I wasn’t certain how far you intended to go, or how long it would take to get there.” She said as she held the core of her apple in her palm for her horse. She laughed softly as the horse nudged her hand looking for more.

As Aravir handed her a small pouch filled with water she thanked him and took a drink. It was cool and refreshing after many hours on a dusty road. A little bit dribbled down her chin and she wiped it with the back of her hand before looking up to see the look on Aravir’s face. She knew what that look was. She had seen it is his eyes last night in their chamber. Moira looked away quickly and handed the pouch to him, she didn’t want him to see the answer to his lust in her own eyes.

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/06/cf/16/06cf162b8822dc1af3e116eb64f08e25.jpg

 

[Aussie_Wolf]

Aravir wanted to chat with his wife, but every time he looked at her he remembered their wedding night and the things he still had left to teach her and he would have to look away and review his plans, or count troop numbers or some such until his ardor was brought under control.

This was ridiculous. He could not continue to be this way or he was going to ruin himself. As they stopped to rest their mounts at a stream and allow the supply train to catch up he was finally able to be alone with Moira without being on horseback. Of course as soon as he was he was semi erect but he didn't care, he was finally able to look at her without the risk of doing permanent injury to himself.

As he ate the apple she gave him and watched her feed the two horses he wanted her now more than ever and when she drank and he watched the small water drops flow down into the valley between her breasts before she wiped her chin he was almost groaning in agony at how much he needed to take her.

She handed him back the water pouch and he attached it to his horses saddle then walked over to her and with a finger lifted her chin up so he could gaze into her eyes. The look he found there made him smile. It was one that mirrored his own in both need and intensity.

"I need you right now Moira and I can not wait another second," he told her as he kissed her hungrily then unlaced her pants and pulled them down around her ankles in one swift movement.

Aravir knew they would not have much time and he eased her down as he did the same to his own trousers before flipping her onto all fours and entering her from behind finding her wet and ready for him. He took it easy at first, allowing her to become used to him again and leaned forward nibbling her neck and playing with her breasts and nipples through her top.

"You don't know how I have longed to do this all day. I have had to refrain from talking to you for fear of injuring myself on my horse you arouse me so," he whispered in her ear.

Finally he began to speed up his pace as he thrust harder and deeper into her leaning back and grabbing her hips as he pulled himself into her.

 

[barefootgirl69]

Even though they were hidden in a copse of trees and brush, Moira was still shocked that he had half undressed them both and was taking her from behind in the middle of the day surrounded by others. Anyone at any moment could come looking for them and find them coupling alongside the road. But, once he leaned forward and nibbled her neck, all those thoughts left.

His thrusts were hard and pushing deep inside her and she couldn’t stop the moan that escaped from her mouth. Hoping no one heard, she covered her mouth and pushed back against him, wanting him as much as he wanted her. There was no denying that her body had been aching for him all day, the wetness that he found within her was proof that she desired him.

Moira felt herself gripping his length from within, clasping, trying to keep him deep inside each time he pulled back. The harder he thrust the more she wanted and soon she was pushing her fist in her mouth to keep from crying out as wave after wave washed over her, her sex hot and wet as she reached her peak. Through it all, Aravir didn’t stop. His hands continued to grasp her hips, pulling her back against him as he thrust hard into her.