The Treasure of Gwenlais, page 152
part #1 of The Rienfield Chronicles Series
“Come with me dearest, I have something to show you,” Caleb smiled at her secretively, taking her hand and leading her downstairs.
She was surprised that he led her through the dining room and out onto the back terrace. To her delighted surprise Caleb had placed candles on the terrace floor, and had pushed the back of the large plush couch down, turning it into a very comfortable bed. He closed the door to the dining room, and pulled the heavy drapes shut. Walking up to Laurel, Caleb took her in his arms and kissed her passionately.
“I wish to make love to my Bride under the stars,” he whispered ardently, picking her up and placing her on the bed.
Laurel could not help herself from giggling for a few moments, at the idea of this passionate encounter out on the terrace.
“Look at it as camping without a tent,” Caleb reasoned, with an enchanted smile at her shyness.
“Oh, well yes I suppose it really is like that,” Laurel replied, giggling once again, until Caleb kissed her, causing all giggling to cease as he became more amorous in his affections.
“You will not be needing this mo stor,” Caleb whispered as he slipped Laurel’s gown over her head.
“Will it not grow cold Caleb?” Laurel asked, in a breathless whisper.
“I shall keep you warm my love. Perhaps a bit later you could wear it once again,” Caleb whispered back, slipping his tunic over his head and placing it on the terrace floor.
“Oh, Caleb” Laurel whimpered softly, responding to Caleb’s passionate affections.
“Yes mo ghra. Call out to me, do not hold back. Let the night sky hear our love,” Caleb spoke in an ardent whisper as he kissed her deeply.
The morning was busy with activity as Gavin and his entire family arrived, along with Liam and Clodagh and their children. Brody, as well as Leod and Gawain and the other Sentinels arrived later, as Gavin wished to make a hearty goodbye feast, as he called it, for the newlyweds and their escorts. The meal was indeed a feast, as Liam and Gavin had constructed a spit outside and slow roasted a very large lamb, since early that day. Marvina and Clodagh baked bread, and Laurel, with Nell’s help made apple dumplings once again. Caleb and the others mingled around the house, then settled in the front room, playing Tablut, telling stories and sipping cider, going outside on occasion to laugh at Gavin and Liam bickering once again. They got along quite well otherwise, but when it came to cooking, they could never agree on anything, other than the other one did not know what he was doing. It ended happily with a hearty meal enjoyed by all, and once again everyone returning to the large and comfortable front room, playing games, and telling stories and enjoying each other’s company. Everyone with the exception of Liam and Clodagh and their children, spent the night, as there was six comfortable bedrooms in the house. Gavin and his family woke early and went back to the pub to be sure the early morning preparations were underway. Sorcha and her servants made everyone a lavish breakfast of eggs, bacon, scones with clotted cream, and warm porridge with wild berries. Caleb and Laurel then finished packing and took one more walk to see the hawks before departing. They were all flying about, disappearing into the forest then returning out in the open again. One of the hawks had caught a rabbit and was feeding it to their young, still devoted to their care.
Laurel and Caleb smiled at each and kissed once more in front on the breathtaking view of the mountains of Heathwin.
“Let us go now Laurel, it is time to go home,” Caleb spoke softly, brushing her hair back.
Laurel smiled back at him sweetly, as she took his hand and walked with him back to the front of the house.
Yes, I am going home, Laurel thought to herself.
She smiled and leaned into Caleb’s arm as they continued to walk back, her heart filled to almost bursting. Happy and content with all they had shared and experienced together. The joy of seeing each other in new and interesting ways they had not yet experienced. The joyous passion Laurel felt each time Caleb had made love to her. Her body and mind reaching heights of ecstasy and sublime happiness she never could have imagined to be able to feel. Now she was returning home, no longer filled with nervous excitement, but deep and peaceful serenity.
31: THE RETURN HOME
After packing Caleb and Laurel gave Killian and Sorcha, as well as Brody warm hugs, promising to be back before winter, for the last Patrol mission of the season.
Sorcha as always cried through her smiles whenever anyone departed from their visit. Laurel continued to wave until they turned the bend in the road and where out of sight.
“I shall miss them all Caleb. They are all wonderful,” Laurel spoke in a warm soft voice, her eyes moist with emotion.
Caleb smiled at her affectionately, as he reached over and squeezed her hand. When they reached the village square, many of the residents were there to say goodbye to the newlyweds. Once again giving gifts of shawls and blankets. Laurel was given a long winter hooded cape made from the Clanns colors. She tried it on to show the residents how much she appreciated the beauty and craftsmanship. Finbar and his wife Eachna, were also there to say goodbye and to show off their new infant daughter. Gavin and Marvina were of course there to send them off as well, handing Gawain a large covered basket.
“Just a few things to eat so you do not get hungry on your way home,” Marvina gushed happily, as she hugged Laurel warmly and kissed her cheek.
“I had a lovely time Marvina. I look forward very much to our next visit,” Laurel said happily.
“I do as well my dear Laurel. Take good care of her Caleb, she is a treasure indeed,” Marvina said, smiling at Caleb as he embraced her.
Gavin walked over smiling broadly at Laurel, as he leaned down wrapping his huge arms around Laurel’s waist, lifting her well off the ground in a warm bear hug. Laurel giggled, as she found her face buried in Gavin’s broad shoulder.
“See you soon dear lass. Tis a real pleasure to have you in our family,” Gavin spoke in a warm deep voice, as he placed her back on the ground.
“The pleasure is all mine Gavin. I am most happy to be part of such a large and loving family,” Laurel replied, with a sweet smile.
Gavin’s reply was a hearty laugh, and then a warm embrace to Caleb.
“We look forward to your next visit lad. Do not be wasting any time in producing those heirs. Your dear mother has already been speaking of it,” Gavin said with a broad smile, hitting Caleb roughly on the arm.
“Well my dear mother will just have to be patient, as we have only been married not much more than a week,” Caleb replied looking over at Laurel, who was as he expected, blushing brightly.
Saying their last goodbyes, the group then remounted on their horses and started the long trip back to the city of Heathwin. They did not stop riding until they left the small hamlet just outside of Welstone. Caleb then suggested they all take a short break and rest in a small clearing, allowing the horses to graze freely. They all sat down on the grass, as Gawain placed the large basket down for everyone to sample the generous and hearty fare that Marvina had packed for them. There was a corked bottle of cider, as well a large loaf of oat bread, smoked lamb sausages, pickled vegetables, with a small wheel of sheep’s milk cheese. Also small meat and vegetable pies for each of them. After they had all finished eating, Caleb placed a blanket on the soft grass and had Laurel rest briefly, covering her with one of her new shawls. He was not surprised when she fell asleep in a few moments. They all then conversed quietly amongst themselves, sharing their experiences of the visit to the villages. An hour or so later as the sun was beginning to set, Caleb woke Laurel and they all once again, made their way back to Heathwin. As they got closer they could see the young men, beginning to light the lanterns along the roadway, the houses along the road were also warmly lit, giving Heathwin a warm and comforting appearance. Laurel let out a soft sigh of contentment, as Caleb reached over to her, holding her hand and smiling lovingly at her. When they finally reached the Great Lodge, they could see the Grand Hall was well lit, and the night sentries were just coming on duty. Leod offered to take Lorcan and Aghna back to the stables so that Caleb could take Laurel into the Lodge without delay.
Caleb and Laurel thanked them all and gave Gawain the basket, so that Iris did not have to fix dinner, Laurel suggested. Thanking them all once again, Caleb and Laurel then walked hand in hand into the Lodge. The first to greet them was Lucas.
“The King and Queen are at the Standing Bear with Chieftain Argon and Adrianna. Prince Aiden and Sir Owain, returned this morning and they and Captain Deaglan are being entertained by Cahir and his new bride Eavan. It would seem Sire that you and Princess Laurel have the Lodge to yourselves once again,” Lucas said, with a warm smile.
“Could you have dinner brought to our room please?” Caleb asked the head of staff, with a friendly pat on his shoulder.
“Of course Sire, it would be my pleasure. Should I have the staff ready a bath for you, my Lady?” Lucas warmly addressed Laurel.
“That would be lovely Lucas, thank you,” Laurel replied, with a tired smile.
“Very good. I shall get everything underway,” Lucas said graciously, as he headed towards the kitchen.
“Well, come along my love,” Caleb told Laurel as he took her up in his arms.
“Caleb!” Laurel exclaimed in a surprised giggle. “What are you doing?” she asked as she placed her arms around his neck.
“It has just occurred to me, here we have been married for just over a week, and I still have not carried you over the threshold,” he answered smiling at her roguishly.
Laurel only laughed at his reason and placed her head against his shoulder as he walked up the wide staircase, to their room. Laurel opened the door, as Caleb still holding her walked into the dark cool bedroom. Caleb placed Laurel on her feet, and then holding her close kissed her warmly.
“Welcome home mo stor,” he whispered in a soft deep voice.
“Thank you Sire. I am very happy to be home,” Laurel whispered back.
“Why do you not light some candles about the room, while I light a fire? I will place the saddle bags near the wardrobe, no need to deal with them now. Then make yourself comfortable, it will take a bit before the staff finishes with your bath,” Caleb suggested walking over to the fireplace, as he knelt down, and began to ready the kindling.
Soon the room was warm and inviting with the smell of the freshly lit fire and the soft glow of candlelight. Laurel had taken off her dress and heavy stockings, wearing only her undergarments, she then walked over to the wardrobe and put on a favourite robe. Caleb had her sit with him in his large and heavy chair at the foot of the bed.
“So mo ghra, did you enjoy your visit to Welstone and Ardara?” he asked, as he kissed her temple.
“Oh, yes Caleb. I enjoyed it very much. I look forward to returning,” Laurel replied smiling at him lovingly.
“I knew you would enjoy it, and that everyone would love you. Daideo will be bragging about you for months now,” Caleb spoke in a deep soft voice, as he caressed her cheek.
“They are all so very kind and generous. All the way home I kept thinking about the holiday at Loch Tay, that you all enjoy,” Laurel said with a bright smile.
Caleb laughed at her comment and kissed her warmly.
“You will enjoy it my love, but it does get a bit loud and rowdy. Fortunately everyone is outside, and there are plenty of places to go to, if it becomes too loud and overwhelming. Unlike the Family gathering here in the winter. There is not nearly as many people of course, but as we are all inside, it becomes quite raucous at times,” Caleb explained, with a small smile.
“It does not matter Caleb. I look forward to both events. I feel my life has been far too quiet,” Laurel answered back, with a giggle.
“Since you have been with me mo stor, your life has been far from quiet. Your first visit here without your parents you were nearly devoured by a Dragon’s tooth. The next visit, you were attacked by a Scimitar, took part in a trial. Then finally bringing you home, nearly drowned in the river, and shared with a Rabkin female. And in between all of that, you met all of my loud and rowdy relatives. I am surprised you have not locked yourself in a room and refused to come out by now,” Caleb mentioned, as he shook his head.
“I shall welcome a less quiet life, as long as I am with you Caleb. You really do not know how lonely my seemingly idyllic life could be at times. So I shall take loudness and a bit of drama here and there for all that I have gained from being with you,” Laurel replied smiling lovingly at him as she put her hand against his face, and kissed him lovingly on the lips.
“Come mo stor. Let us see to your bath, as I wish to bring my sweet girl to bed,” Caleb spoke, in a warm deep voice.
The next morning was unhurried and comfortable, as Caleb and Laurel slept at their leisure, having a light breakfast brought up to their room. Laurel changed into a casual tunic dress, while Caleb took a long bath. Laurel then began to unpack their things from their honeymoon trip. Caleb walked out of the bath, his hair still slightly damp, around his waist, was tied a bath sheet. He walked over to the oversized wardrobe to get dressed and noticed Laurel sitting crossed legged on the floor. She was in front of his small wooden cabinet, which was on the other side of the bath door. Laurel was removing its contents and rearranging and adding some of her own personal items, books, notes, and a small wooden box with childhood mementos. Pulling out comfortable clothing Caleb watched her as he dressed, smiling as he remembered his father telling him that Laurel would soon be rearranging his room, making it their room. Laurel continued to pull things out of the cabinet, and in the back noticed a long drawer, along the width of the cabinet. She opened it and pulled out an item, which made her giggle in surprise.
“Caleb. What is this?” Laurel asked in amusement, walking up to him as he pulled his tunic over his head, and pushed his hand through his hair, to look at her.
“I see you have found it. That is the paddle everyone was telling you about, at your welcome home dinner. “Did I not mention it was in a safe place?” Caleb asked, with a wicked grin.
“Well, it is no wonder, they called you a brute,” Laurel remarked, giving him a coy smile, as she examined it closer.
“It is not that awful. It is not heavy or even that big, as it is able to fit in that drawer you found it in. I also did not paddle anyone that hard with it. I did not leave anyone one with bruised bottoms. Perhaps a bit pink and sore, but that is about it. Trust me, the horrendous week they put me through, they deserved far worse,” Caleb answered her, with a wry grin.
“Now how do you know you did not leave anyone with bruises? This could certainly leave them,” Laurel said, with an accusing tone.
“I gave them a paddling, not a beating. I did not spank anyone’s bare bottom. I have never done that. Aiden was the only one who received the paddle on his draws, because he would not stop cursing at me. The girls cursed at me just as badly as Aiden, but they stopped, after a few good swats across my knee. They were fortunate that is all they received, as I had to chase then all over the Hall. They were all a bit uncomfortable sitting that evening, but were just fine the next morning. Do not look at me like that. You have absolutely no idea, mo stor. You were never spanked as a child. I was the only one to do that, and it only happened once. No wonder you carried on the way you did. If I had paddled you, more than likely you would have stayed in your room for a month,” Caleb said with a laugh, as he turned to walk towards the door.
There was suddenly a loud SMACK! Caleb turned around, with a very surprised expression, then narrowed his eyes at Laurel, who stood there giggling at him.
“You did not just do that,” he said in a low and edgy tone, smiling at her.
“Yes I did. Now you know what everyone else felt,” Laurel said, with mock indignation, as she continued to giggle.
“Do you find yourself amusing?” he asked, as he slowly stepped towards her.
“Um....no. I do find the concept amusing though,” Laurel answered, with a nervous giggle, as she stepped back, glancing over her shoulder towards the open door to the bath.
“Hmm. Come here. I wish to show you another amusing concept,” Caleb replied, smiling at her slyly, as he continued to walk up to her.
Laurel turned and ran towards the open door to the bath, but Caleb ran after her, catching her quickly. Picking her up by her waist, her arms and legs flailing furiously. Caleb grabbed the paddle away from her, fearing with all her struggling she would end up hitting him in the head.
“Caleb put me down! I was just playing! Put me down!” she said with a high pitched laugh, kicking her feet, as Caleb had her off the floor.
“I have every intentions of putting you down, mo stor,” Caleb said, with a laugh.
Aiden and Deaglan reached the top of the stairs and began to head towards the study when they both stopped and looked towards the private quarters.
There was suddenly a loud, shrill, shrieking laugh, then a high pitched female voice yelling, “Stop it! Stop it!” followed by another shriek. Aiden just smirked and shook his head, laughing at Deaglan’s surprised expression.
