This is a very long chapter, and there are sexual situations with some language, so beware. The OC and NPC's belong to Obsidian. Reviews are welcome. Use full screen for a more enjoyable read. Some errors in grammar were kept to enhance the story and dialogue.
MEMOIRS OF AN OUTSIDER
Chapter 8: "Time will tell"
"I can't go any further".Qara yelled as she sat down on the grassy hill. "I'm tired and I want to rest". Khy dropped her head and clinched her teeth.
"She has done nothing but complain since we left the Flagon". Khy muttered to herself. She turned and made her way back down the steep hill to
speak with Qara, fuming all the way. "Qara", she said curtly, "We'll set up camp on the other side of this hill". They had been traveling only a few
days, and at this rate, they would never reach the Old Owl Well. Khelgar set up the tents that Qara insisted they purchase before leaving the Flagon. Khy
scouted the area near the campsite for any dangerous elements and upon returning, thanked Khelgar for his efforts. "Ah lass", he said, "No thanks are
needed; just keep "Her Majesty" away from me and things will be dandy".
-----
Khy flinched at an odd sound and turned toward the nearby underbrush. Weapons at the ready, she slowly approached the source of the noise. "Well,
Hellloooo"! Said a very small man as he walked into their camp. "I'm Grobnar Gnomehands," he said heartily. Khy had never before met a gnome.
Introductions were made all around and Khy invited him to stay the night. She then made the mistake of asking the gnome a few questions, which got him
started on long explanations about everything. One by one, the members of her little band fell asleep. Khy made an effort to stay awake, trying not to be
rude, but success failed her. The morning light shinning in her eyes broke her repose. To her surprise, the gnome was still talking. "Excuse me", Khy said,
"Did you say something about a codpiece with a spring mounted shield"? "Oh my yes"! He said excitedly, "You were listening"! Khy told him of
their quest to Old Owl Well and Grobnar offered to direct them to their destination. A few hours later, with tents and gear stowed, they set off to the Well
with the gnomes help.
-----
They had been traveling for almost a week, and the Well was still a few days away. The rainy weather had slowed their progress, and the never-ending
complaints from Qara had caused great discontent in the party. The constant sniping between her friends had taken its toll on Khy. Tonight was her time
to praise Sune and she was looking forward to being alone. Khy notified the others that she would be off performing her devotional, as she gathered
what she needed and departed.
-----
Arriving at the small lake, she spotted a large tree that draped over the water, providing some shelter from the storm. She set up the area using torches
instead of candles, afraid that the rain would douse them before she finished. She removed her clothes and felt the rush of biting cold against her skin.
Quickly, she performed the usual rituals, and then redressed. She sat under the old tree, where it was still somewhat dry. The torches presented her with
little warmth, as she thought about the futility of these dedications to Sune. She was on the verge of abandoning the monthly rites, as they seemed to
offer nothing but roses.
-----
Suddenly, a blinding light engulfed her with the heat and brilliance of the sun. She closed her eyes and put her hands in front of her face to shield herself
from the brightness. "My child, I will not release you from you duties"! A voice said. Khy slowly dropped her hands and squinted toward the sound.
"Sune". She whispered. The stunning Goddess stood before her, radiating a heavenly light. Khy stood facing the captivating vision, and bowed her head
in reverence. "Your heart, my child, is full of doubt and fear". "You must reconcile yourself to be a true disciple". The goddess said. "My tenets are
a celebration of life, but to you they are just words on a scroll". "You must surrender yourself to me". "Worship me with your body, heart and
soul", Sune continued. "Proclaim your dedication with the zest for life I know you have". "How can I pay tribute to something I don't
understand"? Khy asked. "You are mine", Sune said softly, "Give me the glorification of you"! "Show me that you care, and the rest will fall into
place". Sune gently held her face with her delicate hands, and softly kissed her forehead. "You belong to me". "Give me what is mine"! The light faded
into darkness, taking Sune along with its obscurity.
-----
Khy was awestruck from the experience, and fell to her knees. She reached up and touched the remaining shadow of Sune's kiss on her skin. The brief
encounter had changed her profoundly, and left her with the sincere need to fulfill the deity's request. She somehow knew that there would be no more
roses to mark her adoration, but instead she would have the knowledge that Sune wanted her. Sune's touch had released Khy from all her apprehensions
and mistrust in her own capabilities. She now could be the person she was always meant to become. She gathered her things, and started back to the
campsite.
-----
Khy met with Callum, the commander of Old Owl Well, and a member of "The Nine" who were Lord Nasher's personal bodyguards. Callum amended their
orders to assist him in defending the Well and ridding the area of orcs. Callum marked their map to show the main orc camps. He wished them luck as they
began the new assignments.
-----
A week went by with assaults from orcs and trolls galore. They happened upon a patrol of Ironfist dwarves looking for an old stronghold. Khelgar
volunteered the group to aid in the search. The clan seemed furious with Khelgar, but changed their views with the return of an ancient artifact. After
defeating the Bonegnashers, they headed for the Eyegouger caves. "How much longer"? Qara said as she redistributed the weight of her pack. Khy
explained that they only had an approximate location and it was in the northern direction. Khy looked around at her exhausted friends, and pondered the
idea of making camp early. She approached Elanee with the thought, just as another attack of orcs surrounded them. All at once, help appeared from out
of nowhere, and turned the battle to their favor. Combat had ended, and Khy could see that Elanee was busy healing all the minor wounds. She then
walked over to thank the people responsible for aiding them in the extermination of the orc terror.
-----
The tall man removed his helmet, turned and looked at Khy with the most remarkable blue eyes she had ever seen. His eyes were crystal clear and a
captivating icy blue. She gazed into those vivid eyes and felt as though he could see into her soul. "He's a paladin". Neeshka said. "His kind always
makes me itch"! "Hello my lady". He said with a deep velvet voice. "My name is Casavir". Khy could not speak. This man enthralled her. She was
spellbound by his entrancing blue eyes, and the warmth of his aura that seemed to embrace her. She could smell the remnants of incense that he used in
his prayers. Brother Merring had instructed her on the use of herbs and their meanings when used as incense to enhance worship. She inhaled deeply,
recognizing the sweet smell of lavender for justice, the earthiness of borage for courage, and finally the fresh pine scent of rosemary for wisdom and
faithfulness. She breathed him in, trying to mark the moment in her mind. She felt dizzy from the experience, yet she could not turn away. He moved
closer, taking her hand in his, and then pressing it to his soft lips. She could feel his aura mix with hers, filling her with the sense of warmth and well-
being. The world around her began to close in, and then darken as if the sun had disappeared. The last thing she heard was his smooth smoldering voice.
-----
Khy opened her eyes. She blinked several times, trying to focus her vision. As her eyesight began to clear, her eyes fixed on the striking face above her.
She felt weightless, and then realized she was in the arms of the paladin. She heard Elanee's voice behind her say, "Khy, you've been injured". There's
an arrow lodged in your left side. "Okay", she said, "Can you pull it out"? "Hang onto Casavir and Khelgar will extract it from your back". Elanee
said worriedly. "Are ye ready lass"? Khelgar asked. Khy nodded, as she held tight to Casavir's neck. A gut wrenching pain caused her to cringe, but she
made no sound. She had been holding her breath and she now let it out with a long sigh. "There aren't any more potions", Neeshka cried, "Can you do
anything Elanee"? "I'm sorry Khy", Elanee said sadly, "I need to rest before I can cast more spells". "I'll be fine", Khy replied, "Just give me
something to stop the bleeding". "My lady", Casavir said, "With Tyr's help, I may be of assistance". "I must see the wound in order to attempt a
healing". Casavir told her. "Alright". Khy said.
-----
Casavir carried her to a fallen tree and sat down with Khy draped across his lap. Elanee and Neeshka removed her armor, tunic and chemise. The paladin
pressed his hand onto her bleeding wound, bowed his head and began to pray. Khy felt tepid warmth that grew to an intense heat, and then circulated
throughout her body. Within a few minutes, Casavir raised his head and said, "It is done". "Thank you, I am most grateful". Khy said as she steadied
herself to her feet. Casavir looked into her beautiful face and nodded, as the memory of their meeting interjected itself in his mind.
-----
When he first looked upon her, he thought she was a messenger from the God, Tyr. With her angelic face and startling golden eyes, that shined as if the
sun itself emitted from them. He knew he was in the presence of someone very special. When she collapsed, he had caught her, and then held her close,
gazing down upon her. The shape of her face, the high cheekbones that held a slight blush and those luxurious tresses that hung down in a disheveled
braid. The sweet smell of roses wafted faintly from her skin. When her allies undressed her, the sight of her caused familiar feelings to escape from their
prison inside him. The vest-like device clung to her tapered waist, and highlighted her large tantalizing breasts. Her soft creamy skin covered a finely
chiseled frame, which enhanced her splendor even further. He shook off the haze of memory and tried to direct his attention to the small band of fellow
adventurers.
-----
After careful consideration, Casavir sent the remainder of his troops back to Old Owl Well to help defend the camp. His sergeant was none to pleased with
the idea and put up a fuss, but in the end, she acquiesced. Casavir joined Khy and her companions to put an end to the orc invasion. They traveled
through the mountains and finally located the Eyegouger lair. Through many tough and almost impossible battles, they finally conquered the orcs. They
also managed to find the emissary and send him back to the Well. A discovery was made connecting the Shadow Priests to Black Garius, and a greater
danger to come.
-----
Khy found it easy to talk with Casavir. He was kind and soft spoken, with a unique gentleness of soul. They had set up camp a few days from the Well,
intending to rest while they could. Khy sat next to Casavir as he cleaned and polished his well-worn armor. She told him of her search for information on
the shards she carried. He explained that he left Neverwinter to aid the inhabitants of the Well in defeating the orcs. Khy felt that there was more to the
story, but did not press him to reveal it. She thought that he would share the tale when he was ready. She watched him in the firelight. He wore a light
tunic, and she could see the outline of his broad shoulders through the fabric. She felt stirrings within her, similar to those when she was near Bishop. "I
wonder", she thought, "What these strange feelings could be". Whenever he looked at her with those piercing blue eyes, her heart beat faster, like
that of a frightened bird. She had an uncontrollable urge to touch him, and before she could think, she stroked his arm, feeling the play of his muscles
against her fingers. Casavir turned his head to see her snatch her hand away and then apologize profusely. She bade him goodnight and ran hurriedly to
her tent. Casavir had been well aware of her presence near him. He kept his mind on his task, trying to ignore the yearning he felt inside the deep
recesses of his heart. He could still feel her gentle touch on his arm that created pinpricks throughout his body. He had not felt this way in a very long
time. Nevertheless, to his relief and somewhat disappointment, she left. "It is good that she had retired", he thought. "I may not have had the
tenacity to refuse her".
-----
After they had reported to Callum, Khy was surprised that he and Casavir were acquainted. There was mention of the mysterious circumstances that
clouded Casavir's departure from Neverwinter. Khy fiercely defended the wayward paladin, speaking of his bravery and great deeds. Casavir was taken
aback at her ferocity on his behalf, and explained that it was not necessary. Khy did not want to say goodbye to this stalwart paladin, and to her joy, he
suggested that maybe he could be of use to her and asked to join the party. "I would be honored". Khy said. Neeshka yelled, "Between you both, I
won't be able to sit still". They re-supplied for the long journey back to Neverwinter, and left the next morning.
-----
One night, a few days from their destination, Khy found herself confiding in Casavir once again. She talked of her misgivings and shortcomings with some
of her companions, and of her leadership skills. Knowing he was a leader of men, she wanted his advice. "I fear I am not up to the standards that are
required to make decisions concerning these people". She said wistfully. "A wrong order could result in someone dying, and I care too much for
them to be the instrument of their deaths". She had a look of melancholy and sorrow upon her face as Casavir took her hand. He looked deep into her
shining eyes and said, "My lady, what you are feeling is felt by all those who command". "If you did not have these doubts, then I would be
concerned". "Khy", he said tenderly, "I have known you but a short time, and in that time I am amazed at what you have accomplished". "You
are a natural leader, he said, "It comes from within you and people will be drawn to you whatever may come". "Life is not what events happen
to us", he said sincerely, "But in how we choose to respond to those events". "You, my lady, have responded with grace, valor and integrity".
"Soon", he said as he tightened his hold on her hand, "you will come to realize this also, only time will tell". He held her hand to his lips and softly
kissed her palm. "I admire you, my lady", he said in a deep charismatic voice, "And I am indebted to you for the chance once again to fight for a
just cause". "Your council", she told him. "And your support have been invaluable to me, and I will strive to be worthy of the trust placed in me".
She rose to her feet and walked slowly to her tent, looking back to take in one last glimpse of him before she slept.
-----
They had finally made it to Neverwinter Wood, and everyone agreed to make camp for the night. If they left at first light, they would be in the city by
nightfall. It had been a strenuous journey, and each one of her friends delighted in the knowledge that they would soon be home. The weather was crisp,
and the leaves of the trees were a myriad of colors, reflecting the change of seasons. Khy had gathered a very large bouquet of flowers in preparation of
her observance to Sune that evening. The excitement of this impending ceremony was inspired by her recent encounter with the Goddess. Careful
preparations and special purchases were made with this in mind. She would give of herself completely, her heart and her soul to her Deity. When
everyone had settled in at the campsite, she informed Elanee and Neeshka that she would be leaving soon. Gathering all the items needed, she struck
out for the small lake nearby.
-----
Khy looked out upon the lake with its shimmering water, as it reflected and held the moon in its mirrored arms. She lit the torches and placed them
intermittently along the bank of the serene lake. Unfolding the blanket, she placed it along the shore and then encircled the pallet with elaborate candles.
After lighting the candles, she scattered the many flowers she had gathered, a few white lilies, daisies, carnations and asters. She disrobed, feeling the
cool, brisk air, which caused her skin to react with tiny goose bumps. She raised her arms, as if reaching out for the moon, and then sang in a clear true
voice of her adoration for Sune.
-----
Casavir had inquired on their leader's whereabouts and was told she was at the lake worshiping her Deity. He knew how important such ceremonies
were, and did not want to interrupt her prayers as he patrolled the area. He told himself that he would briefly check to make sure she was well and then
be on his way without her awareness. He neared the lake and glanced through the trees to see if she were safe and unharmed. The sight he beheld
brought him to his knees. There she stood, naked, arms uplifted and bathed in the gleaming glow of the moonlight. He wanted to turn away, to leave her
with the privacy she deserved, but he could not. The sight of her took his breath away and filled him with something he thought he would never have
again---an intense burning desire!
-----
The arrogant ranger had been hunting in the woods, when he caught sight of a familiar image. "Karnwyr", he said softly, "There she is again, the
woman from the ship"! Karnwyr cocked his head in the direction of his master's voice. "Well, my friend", he said to the wolf, "Let's go find out the
identity of this ethereal nymph"! He crept toward the figure, keeping himself hidden as he drew closer. He peeked out from behind a large tree, eager
for the unknown woman to be revealed. It was her! He had been stalking the very person he was trying to forget. "Gods", he said to himself, "She's
more exquisite than I could have imagined". He felt the hunger for her grow as he admired her long slender legs, the shape of her buttocks, the gentle
arch of her back and the full rounded breasts with their hard jutting nipples. He felt himself grow hard with the gnawing want of her.
-----
Khy finished her simple song of veneration, and adorned herself with the flower stole made of tiny red rosebuds. She began to sway and grind to the
unknown rhythm of her soul. She could not have known that her actions appeared sexually provocative to the two pairs of eyes fixed on her sensuous
shape. She twirled and danced around the lake, showing her sheer joy in the praise to Sune. Ending her dancing motions, she retrieved a small vial from
her pack, and opened it inhaling the intoxicating aroma of the scented oil. She dripped the contents along her naked body, and began to rub the fluid into
her skin as her hips gyrated with the rhythm of her movements. She massaged the oil onto her thighs, over her breasts and then circled her erect nipples.
She moved to her stomach and then to the cheeks of her grinding behind.
-----
Casavir felt the pull in his loins as he watched her dance and then lovingly caress her luscious body. "Tyr", he uttered to himself, "Please aid me in
resisting the torrent of passion I feel for this woman". He tried to stand, but the tightness he felt, had grown from his lustful observations and kept
him steadfast. He closed his eyes, trying to erase her from his mind. He had denied himself such pleasures as a recompense for past misdeeds. However,
in his loneliness he had allowed her into his heart. "Tyr, I beg you to grant me the courage and strength to abandon this temptation". He prayed.
Slowly he got to his feet, turning from the vivacious image, he moved away.
-----
Bishop groaned as he watched her naked form in the bright light of the moon. The fervor of his throbbing manhood threatened to break free of its fabric
cell, as he tried to control his fierce need. The motion of her hips and the way she kneaded and squeezed her full breasts, sent him to the brink of
madness. "Oh gods", he thought, "How I want her, I want her more than anything else". He could almost taste the pleasure of her sumptuous form.
The intense urgency could not be constrained any longer. He jerked down his linen breeches, and grasped the hard, throbbing mass between his legs. He
stared at her, picturing her beneath him as he matched the rhythm of her movements with the stroking of his engorged shaft. He watched as her delicate
fingers touched and teased the areas of her body he longed to explore. Quickly he peaked and as the spasms overtook him, he moaned with the ecstasy
of release. He leaned heavily against the tree for support, waiting for his knees to stop shaking and to compose himself. "That's it"! He said to himself.
"No more of this cat and mouse game". "No more Mr. nice guy". All he wanted was to fuck her, just once to get her out of his mind and then be done
with her.