Disclaimer: Nope, not yet – still theirs....but my plotting continues!

A Legend's Journey

Chapter 17

With the dawning of the day, Auron awoke with lustrous dark hair in his face. He smiled. He closed his eyes savoring the memory of their union during the night – and sighed.

Raine stirred, enjoyed her long, luxurious morning stretch, opened her eyes and smiled at the man beside her.

The kiss that followed threatened to delay their rising, but breaking away was a little harder than he expected. A deep breath broke the kiss.

"Why don't you get your shower while I straighten up in here?" he said softly.

"Oh, is my husband turning away from me so soon?" she asked teasingly.

With a shake of his head, in his a deep growl of a voice, he said, "Oh, my love! If you only knew!" Then a little lighter, he said, "I have discovered that my early training can be quite handy at times!" Auron's smile reached all the way to his eyes. And he was beyond beautiful to her blue eyes.

"OK." She hesitated a second. 'Umm, am I supposed to cover myself? Put on my gown – where is it, anyway? How can the simple act of getting out of bed be complicated?!' she thought to herself.

Auron saw her hesitation, reached for the beautiful new robe Harlan had made for her and held it out to her, smiling.

She looked up, smiled shyly and he slipped it on her. She turned to face him and said in a soft, low voice, "Auron, you are everything in this world to me. I love you more than I can ever say!" A brush of her lips on his face and she slipped out of the room.

Donning his own robe, Auron picked up their clothing from the floor and put on fresh linens. It seemed that he instinctively acted to protect her on every level, always thinking of her. Instinctively her loving Guardian.

Shortly she emerged from her shower, freshly dressed in a pair of dark blue slacks and lighter blue top, hair still damp from its washing. Auron thought, 'She would be beautiful dressed in rags!'

Auron got his own shower and shave, dressed and went to the kitchen where she had started the coffee. The gift basket would provide an excellent breakfast for them.

The first rays of the morning sun streaming into the house softly glowed as it touched her hair and bare arms as she gathered cups and plates for their meal. One eyebrow rose as he noticed that the top she wore only had a thin strap over each shoulder, the lacy lower edge of the garment floated freely just above the waistband of her slacks. He growled to himself.

She looked up questioningly. He smiled, "Nothing, my love. Just my thoughts." She had no idea how tempting she was to her husband.

After they ate, Raine straightened the kitchen and Auron began moving furniture. The small bed was disassembled and put away, the desk and chair were returned to their original places, her wardrobe in the small bedroom was moved to their room, and the large chair in which he had kept his vigil was returned to the living area.

Raine was surprised that it was all accomplished so quickly, but then she thought, 'It makes a difference when you're strong as an ox!' She smiled.

She wandered into the living area and, for the first time, really looked at the titles of the books crowding the bookshelves. Many on military topics – history, commentary, biographies - were to be expected in Auron's library, but she was surprised to find several volumes of poetry among the eclectic selection present.

She was surprised, but then again, she realized that she shouldn't be. Auron was a deep, complex person of great intelligence. Others weren't aware of the true depth of the man because he preferred it that way. Few were allowed to see beyond the high collar and glasses. They had no idea what was in his mind, in his heart, in his soul.

She took a volume of the poetry, seated herself in a sunny spot in one of the big chairs and began thumbing through the book, reading ones that caught her eye. She was particularly struck by words written by Elsa Gidlow many centuries in the past:

"Yesterday we walked apart

Separate and mortal.

Now the sacred kiss has joined us,

Now we stand inside the portal

That permits no returning

And my heart is burning, burning.

I know not what the word may be

Or what the charm or token

That has filled us with this glory,

But never let the spell be broken."

She smiled. Miss Gidlow knew of what she wrote. "Never let the spell be broken."

Auron had been silently looking at the picture before him: the most beautiful woman in the world, seated in a big chair with legs tucked under her, sunlight dancing on hidden golden flecks in her dark hair. He saw her smile and nod.

"What has captured your attention?"

She looked up and her smile grew. "I was just reading words written many hundreds of years ago, but they are especially meaningful today." And she read the poem aloud to him.

He sat on the arm of the chair as she read, caressing her hair, enjoying listening to her beautiful quiet voice. Yes, the words were sweet and very fitting.

His deep, quiet voice broke the moment's silence, "I also think of the words written long ago by someone named George Sand: 'There is only one happiness in life: to love and be loved.' I never knew what that meant until I met you."

She kissed the back of the big hand she was holding, then pressed the side of her face against it. The gold ring on his hand fairly glowed.

Weeks passed and their lives began to settle into a routine that pleased them both. Auron had his appointments and private business to attend to, she was focusing on learning to cook the local dishes and foods that Auron enjoyed.

She felt quite confident in going into the square alone as she was making many friends with the people there. Or she thought she was alone. Between Auron and Kimahri, she was rarely out of sight.

The vendors grew accustomed to seeing her run out the door, feet flying, hair blowing behind her, as she needed one more ingredient, or help with some aspect of a dish. She had no idea of the picture she made as many pairs of eyes followed her back and forth. They knew that she was earnestly doing her best to adapt and fit in, and they respected her for it. They were especially pleased that she called on them to help her. The sight of her brought many smiles.

Auron learned to stay well back in the shadows as she flew back and forth, working so hard on a new dish for him. He didn't want to spoil her surprise. There were times when he honestly thought he was going to just explode with love for her and the happiness she had brought to his life.

Had anyone looked he would have seen nothing of this on his famous face – or the little of it that was visible. Outwardly nothing seemed to have changed with him. But up close, they saw the softening around his eyes when they fell on her or when her name was mentioned. And he wasn't in public as much, preferring to be with his bride in their home. Certainly no one could fault him for that. The square was a happy place these days.

On the days when he knew she was working on something with which to surprise him, he waited to enter the compound until he saw her take a taste of the finished project to whichever vendor was helping on that day for a final taste test.

Upon his arrival, she was usually putting the finishing touches on the meal she had prepared, eyes sparkling with anticipation of his reaction. He was so delighted with her and the way she tried so hard to please him, he could not have fully verbalized it if his life depended upon it. But she saw it in his eyes, felt it in his embrace, tasted it in his kiss.

Raine had the uncanny ability to see into the souls of people. Somehow, she just knew and understood.

She had even approached Alsa, Kimahri's fellow Ronso, and tentatively asked about Ronso preferences in food. Shyly explaining that she wanted to invite her husband's friend to dine with them, but, being new to this world, she simply didn't know what she should serve. Her open honesty was completely disarming.

Alsa slowly took her through food vendor tents pointing out this or that, explaining how it was to be prepared and served. Raine carefully listened to every word, asking a question now and then, and nearly overwhelmed the enormous blue creature with her obviously sincere thanks for his help.

Kimahri, watching from deep shadows, knew something was afoot and that sooner or later he was probably going to be somehow involved. 'Hmm.' He looked into the shadows in the far side of the enormous square at a figure in a red and got a small shrug in response. OK, so they both were in the dark for the time being. Without doubt they would find out soon enough. He just hoped it wasn't something he would hate because there was no way he could deny his friend's wife anything she asked.

In a few day's time when Raine asked him if he would do them the honor of joining them for a meal at their home, the light dawned. Kimahri was genuinely touched that she had gone to so much effort to prepare food especially for him, as the Ronso palate didn't always agree with that of other races, including humans. For once, he was actually looking forward to a dinner invitation. He knew that she would put everything she had into her efforts on his behalf.

On the day of the dinner, Auron actually began to feel some concern for her. She must have run between the villa and the square two dozen times for one thing or another.

Finally, as the dinner hour approached, he entered the villa. The wonderful smells wafting on the air from the kitchen instantly made his mouth water. He didn't know what it was but knew that it was going to be delicious.

She had really turned the villa into a home. Little touches here and there that brought warmth, comfort and life to the entire compound – all in her quiet, unobtrusive way. A home. No longer 'my quarters', but 'my home.'

Knowing that her only source of gil was the household money he gave her, he made certain that it was generous enough to cover the cost of extra things she may want to purchase. He touched the beautiful gold ring on his finger and smiled. She never bought anything for herself, but she had nearly bankrupted herself so he could have this ring. For a second, he felt the tiny sting of tears. 'Auron, take hold of yourself!'

Soon Kimahri arrived and his nose sniffed appreciatively at the smells coming from the kitchen.

Bright, happy blue eyes greeted him and welcomed him. Gold eyes briefly met dark ones as they silently agreed that, whatever the cost, they would eat and enjoy the meal on which she had worked so hard.

Seated at a table beautifully set, a small vase of fresh flowers gracing the center, Raine served her husband and his friend one of the best meals either could remember. Kimahri hadn't tasted a more delicious meal since he left his homeland many years before. He ate until he simply couldn't eat anymore.

Raine was so relieved to see the two eat with such unfeigned relish, really enjoying their meal. She didn't eat a lot, but she took great pleasure in watching them. The two most important people in her world were here and she would do anything she could to make them happy.

The last bites eaten, Kimahri and Auron gave long, satisfied sighs. Raine laughed that wonderful laugh that bubbled up from her throat. "I'm so sorry that neither of you liked it!" Laughing again, she said, "I was beginning to wonder if the plates would be safe!" They laughed – and it was wonderful.

Raine told the two friends to go do something with themselves while she cleaned up. She had cleaned the bowls and pans as she had used them, so there was actually little to clean and put away. She put the last bit of Kimahri's favorite dish in a small container that he could take with him.

Auron and Kimahri took themselves to the roof while Raine cleaned up.

Auron said, "Many more meals like that and I'll be doing workouts twice a day!"

Kimahri's growling chuckle agreed with him. "Auron, Kimahri never been so welcome, made so happy. Kimahri thinks Sir Auron should have married long ago!"

They shared another chuckle, then Auron sobered, "But it wouldn't have been her, Kimahri. Raine is what makes it all so perfect. She is an incredibly warm, thoughtful and giving person. I love her so much that sometimes I can hardly stand it."

"Kimahri understand. Kimahri love Lady Raine, too. As friend. Friend like Sir Auron."

Auron was incredibly touched. He knew that Kimahri's designation of Raine as 'friend' was not given lightly or without a great deal of reflection. To be 'friend' to a Ronso was to be more like a blood brother, a close family member, bound for life – and they took exceptional care in those they designated as 'friend.' Having that designation required that all Ronso treat that individual as he would a brother or sister. Not many received it.

Again, all he could do was place a hand on the massive furred shoulder in response. And again, no other words were necessary.

Soon, Raine joined them.

"Kimahri thanks Lady Raine for wonderful meal. Not had such food many years since left home. Kimahri grateful for great efforts. Will remember this many times and smile. Best Kimahri can, anyway."

They laughed.

"Kimahri, it was my pleasure. Truly my pleasure. And I am so relieved that you both enjoyed it! Trying new recipes can be an uncertain venture! I've put the last bit in a package for you to take with you. You may want a snack later."

"Kimahri stomach full, now Kimahri sleepy. Think Kimahri excuse self now."

He stood, towering over the seated Raine by many feet. He knelt down on one knee, took her small hand in his massively powerful paw and planted a gentle kiss on it.

In his own low growl, he said, "Lady Raine very special lady. Is Kimahri's friend as long as Kimahri live."

Raine felt tears sting her eyes. Auron rose and put a hand on his friend's back as they turned to leave.

Raine followed them down the stairs and to the door. "Thank you, Kimahri. It has been such a lovely evening. Thank you for being here."

A bow to her, a thump on Auron's chest and Kimahri left, small packet of food in his paw.

Auron turned from the door, looked at her with pure love and admiration. "How do you do it?"

"Do what?" she asked.

"Make everyone fall in love with you?"

She laughed and went into his arms.

They returned to the rooftop to watch the stars. Auron explained to her exactly what Kimahri meant by calling her 'friend.' She listened with rapt attention and was deeply touched at the honor bestowed on her.

"How can I thank him, Auron? Such an honor can't be ignored!"

"You honor him, Raine, by caring for him, being kind to him, and by doing what you think will make him happy. In other words, just be yourself. You honor him by being who you are. No one has ever gone to so much trouble to prepare a meal just for him, Raine. Your thought and desire to do it, your efforts in inquiring, learning, then executing it, said all that was required. You are his friend. Your heart is as big as he is."

Raine dropped her head. Auron always made it sound as if she was due credit of some sort. She did it first because she loved him, because it was for someone close to him; and she did it because she saw the great heart and genuine goodness in the Ronso. And because she loved him, too. As her great friend.

Auron knew her thoughts. He marveled that she simply didn't know how truly special she was.

It was time to retire. He led her downstairs.