McDonough Clan

Date: 10-10-11
Poster: Sarah McDonough
Post # 1

The Right Time

The days had been long and cold with work never ending this time of the season. His latest task had been cutting down the fields and rolling the straw into bales. Today had been the first warm day, near summer like and so herald what was known as Indian Summer. Summer's last stake before Winter took its place. The trees along the lake were golden still reflected in the calm waters as the sun set to a blazing orange then gradually darkened. The lake seemed to hold its own kind of light and the moon played its silvery glow atop gold. Artani had come for some thinking but had left a note to Sarah so she knew where he was. The fact that he left her a note was an invitation in and of itself should she decide on a walk after her chores were done. With all the work over the past couple months they had not seen a whole lot of each other even if he worked on her father's ranch. He also helped out at Joe's and between the two, he was up before dawn and not done until dark. The fields were all ploughed under, the hay all gathered, the cider made and after all the good harvest they would have a feast soon to celebrate. There was a lot to celebrate. He was picking up the flat stones and skipping them across the smooth waters as most of his thoughts turned upon one that seemed to hold them the majority of time.

Sarah had finished her chores for the day when she found the note. There had been preserves to put up and fruit to dry, a meal to plan though the cook would do the preparing. She had cleaned up and put on clothes suitable for walking, a pretty peasant blouse, doeskin pants and low tooled ankle high boots. She had also grabbed a short cloak in case it grew cooler even though the day was warm. Her hair was pulled back into a braid. She had even packed a small basket with a few sandwiches and some drinks. As she came down the path, she paused and watched Artani, a golden man in a golden landscape.

Soon as she got within a certain distance, the Rom knew she was there as he continued his walk but angled it so he would be closer to where she came down. After the last skipping stone he turned to face her, hands on his hips as he'd enjoy watching her draw closer. "Think I've earned me way in your father's eyes to ask you to marry me?" Even from the distance, clear air, his words would carry easily and the twinkle in his eyes would not be missed either.

She smiled as he looked her way. The twinkle in his eyes, the smile made her heart beat faster. She blinked in surprise when she heard his question, then tried to look serious and thoughtful. "He's probably wondering why you haven't asked yet." She didn't know for sure of course though her Da did tease her at times about Art. "I guess you'll have to ask and see."

Her Da might tease her but there were comments made to him that he best not mess with his little girl before they were married. A man could only wait so long in that area and he knew she was the right one for him, provided he was the right one for her. Determination lit his eyes with the challenge of her words as well the smile to tip lopsided as he came forward until he near upon her. He dropped to a knee, his hands folding over it, "then will you married this ole Rom, Sarah McDonough?" He would probably have to finally tell her of his past, of his family too if she asked. Such had always been avoided. He was just never in the habit of talking about it.

"Ole Rom?" She laughed again and leaned forward, cupping his face with her hands. "Yes, I will marry you, gladly and with all my heart." And a kiss followed his words, one full of passion and promise. She would ask but not now, not when this moment was so perfect.

Kind of strange being on one knee and one above bent to kiss. So, hands left their perch upon his knee to slide up her side, turning her to sit where they had been. He didn't break the lip lock until both needed some air. This day had been a long time in coming, a few years. Nothing rushed but certainly her father was hinting about his intentions more than usual of late. He sucked in a needed breath. "I've a ring that I'll be getting you as it is not here. A special ring for a special woman." It meant him going back to his past as there were a few things there for him to still collect. "When would you like to get married? Next week?" He was going to tease on it being tomorrow but next week was a better possibility.

She would have sat but he was quicker and settled her there. Her eyes on his, she heard his words but they didn't register at first. "Next week." First she answered, then she came back to reality. "I guess I should ask how long it will take you to get the ring." She chewed on her lower lip thoughtfully. "Unless Da wants to go all out, then we may have to wait until we have the harvest festival." Which would make a nice double celebration. "Where would you have to go for it?"

"If I ride hard both ways," sneak in like a thief in the night, which he didn't add, "It should take me a week, so maybe a week and a half so I will be sure to be back." Giving her a wink as certainly he would not want to miss his wedding day. "The season is up to you, as I said, I'd marry you tomorrow and get the ring later." What was more important? But he'd not want to be in transit during the time set.

"You can wait until we're married to get it." She had let go of him when she sat but now she slid her one arm around his waist. "We should talk to Da then. Tomorrow would suit me just fine." They could always have a celebration later if they couldn't get things together quickly. "But if he'd like to have a big celebration, we should let him. After all, I'm his only daughter." Well, Kia was like a daughter, but Artani would understand. "I love you, Artani and I've never pushed on your past. I won't now." She was certain he had a good reason for not talking about his life before he came to Heathfield.

His knee was becoming rooted into the ground even if her weight was slight. He eased up taking her with him instead. "Then we can go see him right now. I know a harvest celebration is being organized, perhaps we can add a wedding to it. Perfect reason to celebrate. It will be everyone around that wishes to come. The trees in their glory, maybe have it down here at the lake?" He knew the location was still being discussed so it would really be up to her where she'd like it.

The lake was a special place for several reasons. "That would be perfect. Maybe at sunset." An extra blessing for their union. She laughed softly. "You do know you've made me the happiest woman in Heathfield right now. In the world!" She was feeling near giddy with joy, and she knew her family would be glad for them both. Curling her fingers through his, she moved forward slightly, tugging. "Hurry, I can't wait to tell Da!"

That had him grinning more and more as he cocoon her within his arms. The night's air was turning colder but she'd not feel it there. "At sunset or the break of dawn, whatever you wish will be my command." Dangerous words and he could imagine what remarks Stefan would make to them. He had tried to trap her and ended up trapped, willingly so. "I'm the happiest man.." but he was laughing as she started tugging and as the embrace was released he was moving with her. A half run, half jog, half trot. "Don't want to keep the time waiting," the moon was rising behind them too, his moniker.

They would likely find Ice in the manor at this time of evening, relaxing before the evening meal. It would be a night to celebrate and one she would write down in her journal.

-tbc-

Date: 10-11-11
Poster: Joseph McDonough
Post # 2

A Long Time

The evening had gotten cooler, much cooler than the near summer day. The day long with much work gotten done that needed to be. Some would say this was the bewitching month, that of the harvest moon and the night the spirits got to come back. To Joe, it marked the end of summer and start of winter. A time when it was not really one or the other but bounced back and forth indecisively. So when the days were sunny and warm, they packed three hours of work into one. The days that were windy, cold and spells of rain, they did more of the indoor chores. Although there was always the cattle to see to, come rain, snow, sleet and freezing temperatures. Some of their work was very dangerous but they seemed to go through it like any other easier job. After all said and done, and orders put in for lumber, Joe headed up to the Thistle to chat with Alex, Matthew, Hazel and anyone else about he knew, or didn't know. He also enjoyed a good meal and was finally relaxing in front of the fire, glass of potcheen in hand that was well earned.

Marina had been planning a visit to Heathfield for some time but it seemed that there was always things to be done, from dealing with the day to day things at her brother's manor to preparing for winter. That was why her brother Charles had finally chased her off, declaring that he and the children would be fine. It was late when the carriage finally arrived at the Thistle. She was hungry though luckily not cold. The driver dropped her off at the front, while he took the carriage to the back. Once the horses were unhitched and seen to, he'd bring in her bags. He'd be staying as well, seeing to some errands. She wrapped her wool cloak tighter, glancing around the commons before making her way up the steps and quickly inside. As the door closed behind her, she lowered her hood, smiling at Alex before making her way across the room to speak to him.

His eyes were half closed as the day's work finally caught up. The warmth lulling him as the glass precariously dangled from his fingertips. One could wonder if he might drop it but he did not. It was the rush of cold air that stirred him from a near daze and turning his head to the side so he could look over his shoulder. Of all the ones that might have come through that door this night, he was surprised it was one that had traveled a good distance to get this far. Pleasantly surprised as he was up from his laze sprawl over the chair. "Marina, how very good to see you again." Tall as ever, strongly built, lean and fitting his clothing well. Black pants, quilted vest over a thick cotton shirt. Hair curling down over the collar that was somewhat tamed back. "You will come and join me?" Posed as a question but seemed to border no response in the negative.

She had spoken to Alex about a room and was in the process of asking for tea and some bread and cheese when movement caught her eye. She looked up at the mirror, then turned to face Joe, obviously surprised but delighted from the smile that appeared. "Joseph! It's so good to see you as well." She crossed the room quickly, holding out her hands. "Of course I'll join you. I had planned to send word that I was here and ask if I might visit." She had grown fond of him and his children. "How have you been?"

His smile grew much like the twinkle in green eyes as she crossed over offering her hands. He took them up in his then without delay had her up into his arms and a swing about before she was set to her feet again. "I've been grand. I've been wondering how you've been fairing. It's been a while and I hope you've settled in with your brother. About time there was someone to keep him in line," giving her a wink with the tease. He had not fully released her as his hands lingered near her elbows. The touch light and would fall away once she moved.

She squeaked in surprise, laughing as she was spun. In some ways Joe and Charles were alike and teasing was one of those ways. "Yes, I've settled in though I'm not sure I can keep him in line all that well." She laughed softly. "Charles has always known what he wants and if he's determined enough, nothing will stop him." She stepped back but only so she could study the much taller man. "You're looking as handsome as ever. How are the children?" Tamara wrote to her often but she would still ask after both.

"I'll have to come up and get him out of line so you can practice on him." Which was an amusing thought as his hand moved to rest at the back of the chair next to his. One of the wingbacks and not likely one could move it but the gesture was as a gentleman. With the comment he struck a pose for a few seconds, head slightly to the side showing off noble features. Although a ruse, he pulled it off well. "The children are near grown, all grown up inside, especially Josh. Of course Tamara is the little lady still wanting to find me a wife and one that could be a mother. I think she is finally getting old enough to realize it takes more than that and I fear she might become a shrewd little matchmaker as she grows."

She laughed with both the pose and the playful threat then finally sat, smoothing down the skirt of the rich chocolate colored gown she wore. She knew he wouldn't sit until she did. One of the serving girls brought a tray with the tea, bread and cheeses, enough for both if Joe wanted any. "I'm sure they're both quite a bit taller too. And yes, Tamara will be determined, at least until she's of an age to be distracted by boys." She added honey to the tea as she continued. "Are you set for winter? It was beautiful in the mountains with the changing leaves. The higher peaks have snow already." She turned her gaze back to him with a smile. She had almost forgotten how handsome he was... almost.

"You're looking ravishing, if that is not so bold of a word for me to use." Oh yes, he had noticed and now said something on it as he stepped aside from his teasing. Something that came as easy as breathing. As her fare was brought and she settled in, he took up his seat again but angled towards her in the way he sat. "Have you had a chance to meet your new neighbors?" Perhaps a testing question for who their new neighbors were and he'd get an idea of how others felt about them, especially the brother.

"Thank you, and no, it's not too bold." In fact, from the color of her cheeks, she was quite pleased with the compliment. She sipped the tea then shook her head. "Not yet. They've had much to do to repair the manor though Charles has. He said Lord Callihan is cordial enough if distant, and his sister is quite lovely." There was a twinkle in her eyes as she added, "And of course, I had to ask if she had any suitors." Just to get in a touch of teasing herself.

From the color of her cheeks, he might feel it was a bit bold but he wouldn't retract his words now for the world. He was enjoying how it made her eyes brighter. He had his tumbler in hand and a taste of the potcheen to warm his throat and keep him from falling ill. Good excuse although there might actually be some merit to it. He rarely got sick. The bit on Caoime had him laugh, "I doubt her brother will allow her suitors for none would meet what he probably feels is best for her. She might well make a good companion for you as well you for her in the coming months. Winters can be harsh and you'll not get far traveling." Which had him smile more that she was here or he might not see her until the spring. "What brings you down to Heathfield?"

The thought that winter would have her snowed in made her nod though she wouldn't mind it. There was plenty to do to keep her busy. "I suppose that's true, on the part of her brother that is." She smiled again though. "And she'd be welcomed company I'm sure. I wanted to get in some shopping and while there are shops in Kildare, there are some things here that can't be bought there. I need to buy material to make some clothes for my niece and I thought to do some shopping for Yule even though it's some time off. Charles had some things coming from England but had them shipped here for some reason." She had thought at first it was to keep their father from knowing what they were up to but after some thought she was sure Charles didn't care. "And, if I'm honest, I was looking forward to seeing you again. And Josh and Tamara."

"Kildare is growing quickly and in a few years from now there will be even bigger changes, becoming the kingdom it once was and better. You should hold a small ball for those in the vicinity during the winter solace. Just a suggestion." Realizing he was probably overstepping boundaries but it would be good to start up a social network as kingdoms did well on better structured ones. "I like your honesty and certainly the feeling is mutual. Perhaps I can accompany you on your shopping excursion." If his kids were here they wouldn't believe their ears on that offer!

"That is a thought." She gave him a dimpled smile, wondering if Charles would be amiable to the suggestion. It would be a nice way to meet some of those she hadn't yet. "I would love to have your company. I'm sure there's more to catch up on." She realized with some surprise that she had finished her tea. "I'm afraid the traveling is catching up with me though and I should probably try to get some sleep. When will you be able to accompany me?" She knew this was a busy time of year after all and could alter her plans to suit his.

He rose from his seat as his empty glass was tucked away to the palm of his hand to bring over to Alex. "It is late and I'm glad I came here this night. What time would you be wishing to start your shopping tomorrow?" That way he could make his plans around his other work and set his men to it instead. It was why they were hired. He and his brother usually worked just as hard, hired men or not.

She stood, picking up the tray to carry over to the bar, though she'd might take the bread and cheese with her since she hadn't really eaten any of it. "I'm glad you did too. I was planning on going as soon as the shops opened." Marina was an early riser and though it was late, she would likely be up in plenty of time. "I want to take my time and was planning on going to the museum too."

"Many open at the break of dawn and close at dusk too. I will be here, break fast with you so we can get in a good day of shopping. I'll show you all the stores about the square and commons." That way she would know where to get things in the future if needed. "My son might well join us and be our driver of a small surrey, large enough to fit the three of us and a small store's words of goods." There was also the possibility Tamara would insist on coming and helping too.

She would be delighted to have both Joshua and Tamara along! "That would be wonderful I'd like to see him again, and Tamara." She was quite happy with the plans made. Alex had a key ready for her, having had her driver take her things up to the room already. "I'll look forward to seeing you tomorrow then. Good night, Joseph." She stood on tiptoe to attempt to place a kiss to his cheek. "It's so good seeing you again."

He was walking with her in a leisurely pace as they talked. The tumbler dropped off a the bar and a few words to Alex before walking her to the hall where she'd take the steps to her room. "Good night Marina, I will see you in the morning. Pleasant dreams," which sparked the twinkle in green eyes like someone who held a secret. A hand came up to touch against her cheek as she gave a kiss upon his. One then parted upon hers before she would step down to her normal height. "Tomorrow.." giving a slight nod as it was settled. With that last good bye he was on his way with only a pause at the door to open it with a glance back to see if she was still standing there. If she was, she'd get a flash of a smile before he was out the door, closing it securely behind him.

This trip had proven to be a good idea so far and she was quite pleased that she had come. She did wait at the entry way, lifting a hand when he turned back. After the door closed, she turned and went up the stairs. A good night's sleep would be welcome.

-tbc-