Author's Note: Aine was a Celtic fertility Goddess.  She was thought to rule
in province Lough Gur, on a magical island.  She was also reputed to be able
to shape shift into an old hag who brought strife to those who refused her.
Tuatha De Danaan, was an Irish tribe of the Goddess Danu.  According to
folklore the Tuatha De Danaan were a race of people skilled in the art of
druidism and magic.  At one time the tribe laid claim to the entire island of
Ireland, invaded and fought this tribe.    The two warring sides came to a
compromise and divided the country in two.  The Celts took possession of the
upper half, and the Tuatha De were given a subterranean realm under the hills
of Ireland.  There they were believed to live in the otherworld without
grief, without sorrow without death or age.  Scattered throughout the Irish
countryside are mounds called sidh.  In reality these are burial mounds.
According to Celtic folklore they were the gateway to the domain of Tuatha
De.  On certain occasions during the year, especially the eve of feast of
Samhain Nov. 1st, spirits were free to leave their sidh to roam the
countryside. Once again I am borrowing from this mythology to tell my tale.
My tale of Spike and Willow's first human meeting is loosely based upon the
celtic story of Diarmaid and Grainne.  In this Irish tale a young women
(Grainne) who is daughter of Irelands king is engaged to an elderly war hero
Finn.  At Grainne and Finn's wedding feast she cast a magic spell enchanting
the guest with the exception of Diarmaid, a young man in her husband to be
army.  She cast a geis (a type of spell or prohibition that supercedes all
divine and human jurisdiction.  Thus binding the person to whom the geis is
cast upon to follow the wishes of the person initiating the geis).  Grainne
cast a geis upon Diarmaid that he accompany her and take her away from the
situation or that he would not only met his death and destruction but
dishonor as well.  He complied.  Finn awoke and in his fury chased after the
couple all over Ireland.  Grainne's foster father Oengus helped the couple
evade Finn and his army.  Oengus was a God who warned the couple not to stay
in the same spot for more than one night.  He is said to have hastily erected
dolmens (consisted of three to seven large stone columns, with a large stone
cap; these resembling large stone tables.) These dolmens are found throughout
Ireland and are today referred to as Diarmaid and Grainne beds.
I am borrowing and mixing the myths and Gods/Goddess as I mentioned above.
I'm sure it won't take the reader long to figure out who the protagonist is
in this earlier incarnation. I also ask the reader to think of Willow's
foster father in my story as an earlier incarnation of Giles.  Yes I am going
to use my pseudonym, Dageny.  I wanted a simple name I could write for both
Willow/Dagney and Spike/Daire.
Whew that out of the way here we go.
 

Aine transformed as an old hag swaddled the stillborn child in her cloak.
The Lugh family had always paid her fine tribute and respected her simple
requests.  Thus, Aine took the stillborn male from Nera Lugh.  As it was
October 31st Aine would travel to the nearest sidh and conger a spirit from
the otherworld to inhabit this lifeless babe. After all she had her
reputation as a fertility goddess to keep.

Aine laid the babe upon the sidh.  As the moon climbed in the night sky she
awaited the opening of the otherworld.  Aine stood on one leg and reached
forward with one arm, as was the druid way.

She began the incantation,
"Beloved Goddess Danu, Queen of the underworld please hear my plea."
"Offer up on this sacred night a souled one from the underworld"
"If it shall please thee, I shall do thee bidding in sowing a bountiful
harvest across your mother Demeter's plains."

The sidh shook, as did the ground under Aine's feet, she lost her balance and
fell hard to the ground, hitting her head upon a sharp stone.  She rose and
saw movement under her cloak.  Aine gave thanks to Danu for hearing her
appeal.  Aine unwrapped the cloak and sucked in her breath.
"Hera," she swore.  Aine gazed upon the male child resurrected, looking at
her with icy blue eyes; but she also saw a green eyed, redheaded baby girl,
who clutched the tiny hand of the male child lying next to her.
< Whose baby girl is this? >  < Hera, what have I done? >  < Danu, what
should I do with her, this child of the underworld? >

Aine picked up both babies and wrapped them in her cloak. She headed back
toward her home.  Aine thought about the baby girl.  < Ah, the Queen of
Ireland had been paying her tribute to enable her to become with child. >
Aine knew that she couldn't help the Queen due to her husband's bad seed.
Aine was empathetic of the Queen's plight, as the King had threatened to seek
another to bear him a child.  < This child could pass as the King's daughter.
>  < I've got little to loose and it can't hurt to have the King and Queen
beholding to me. >  Aine left the baby girl with the Queen.

She returned to her home by sunrise after dropping the male child off at Nera
Lugh's.  Aine was glad to be rid of the squalling brat.  He screamed like a
bloody fury ever since she had separated him from the little lass.  Aine had
a headache, she crawled into her bed; < no one appreciates how hard it is to
be a goddess. >
 

The Lugh's were happy to se they're first born son healthy.  They named him
Daire.

The Queen was able to keep the baby girl's presence secret from her husband
as he was currently away on business in a nearby nation.  Upon his return she
would tell him she was several months along with child.  The baby girl shall
make an appearance shortly thereafter.  The Queen decided she shall be called
Dagney.
******
Part 2:

"Niall, one of our own has been drawn into the above world by Aine"
explained
Danu.

"Is it your wish that I bring her back?" Niall asked.

Danu paused, "no perhaps it is time for our kind to roam free in the
above
world again."

"You shall go and be her mentor and protector, teach her our ways."
Danu
smiled.
" Make sure she knows she is special and that she won't be wasted on
some
pitiful mortal."  Danu commanded.

"But Goddess, if she is in the other world she lives as a mortal? Does
she
not?"  Niall asked.

"Yes, but her soul is from Tuatha De Danaan."  Danu proclaimed.

" Niall, you have some time to prepare, you cannot cross over until the
feast
of Samhain." Danu dismissed Niall with a wave of her hand.

~~~~~~~

King Brian Boru smiled down at his tiny redheaded daughter.  " She is
magnificent, Clio," he said softly placing a kiss on his wife's
forehead.  <
She barely looks like she's broken a sweat. >

" I would like to call her Dagney." Clio asked smiling up at her
husband.  <
You foolish swine. > < Now that I have given you a child you shall not
be
able to rid yourself of me, nor shall I have to put up with your
boorish
attempts to fornicate. >

"Yes, as you finally graced me with a child why not, Dagny Boru it
shall be."
 The king left his wife's chambers and requested a handmaiden be
brought to
him to help him celebrate.

~~~~~~~~

Nera and Collin Lugh were overjoyed with their son Daire.  The couple
knew
that they should place the baby into his cradle but they wanted to have
him
between them.  Nera reminded Collin that Daire was special, that Aine
had
made him well.  Collin touched his son's soft head as he watched him
nurse at
his wife's breast in awe.      " Your pretty amazing yourself," he
grinned
and kissed his wife on the lips.

~~~~~

 16 years later

Daire had walked in on his parents groping and kissing one another in
the
kitchen.   < I can't believe them, they never stop, and ma is ready to
give
birth to yet another child.  I'm sure it shall be another sister, 'tis
not
like I have enough already. >  "Daire," one of his five sisters tugged
on his
arm, " You promised" Eriu whined.        " Not now, I've got to talk to
Da,
be off with you" Daire said sharply.

His parents looked up at him, " I've got to talk to you both." He said.
< He
reviewed in his head all the reasons he was going to give them for him
going
off to Dublin to join with Cormac's army.  I'll not live out my life on
this
farm and die here.  I've to see the world and have a bit of adventure
before
I settle down. >

Despite his mothers tears Daire felt good that his father was
supportive of
his decision.  His father was unhappy that he was going to take up with
the
Viking Clan but understood his need to spread his wings a bit.
~~~~~
 Niall looked in amazement at Dagney.  < She is a magnificently
beautiful
young woman.  She is also one of the most stubborn temperamental chits
I have
ever know mortal or Goddess. >  Niall couldn't help but laugh at his
charge.
" You can not conquer the stone Dagney, it is not alive…instead you
must use
the air." He encouraged.  " That it" he watched as her face scrunched
up and
her green eyes narrowed in concentration as she managed to levitate the
large
rock.

The rock splintered into small pieces.  " Hera" she swore stomping her
foot
as her long red hair flew about her face like she was a fury.

"Dagney", he chuckled " patiences.  Your Mother and Father would not
approve
of your swearing either" he admonished.
" How will your father find a suitable husband for you when you go
about
swearing like a solider?" Niall teased.

" I shall not be married, Niall."  " Not to anyone, I shall be my own
women."
She said royally.

"Unless of course you decide to make me your consort.   That might be
agreeable, but I shall never marry" She smiled at his slyly.

Niall found himself aroused by his young charge.  He wasn't sure when
things
had changed for him. He had always enjoyed tutoring the child.  Her
brilliant
and inquisitive mind made her a quick study.  Her stubborn streak and
fearlessness kept him challenged by her as often as not.  Lately his
thought
drifted to a more impure nature.  It was his own fault his not making
her
more disciplined.  Her mother catered to the child's every whim.  Her
father
treated her with ambivalence and looked upon her as an investment.
Niall
walked a fine line between both parents.    Her father tolerated him,
and
warned him that Dagney safety and virtue were to remain intact. Niall
scoffed
angrily, that it wasn't the girls' welfare her father was concerned
about but
her value as a pawn in his growing empire.  The King saw the powerful
Druid
in his court another resource to exploit.  He used Niall's affections
for the
child against him at times to have him perform powerful spells over the

king's enemies.
Niall cursed himself  over his involvement with the child's mother
Clio. He
and Clio had been lovers for some time now.  The King knew but didn't
care.
Niall was in a trap of his own making. The King used his wife and
daughter to
manipulate him.

Niall was shocked out of his silent reverie as he heard:  "That is of
course,
if you fancy me more than my mother?"  Dagney grinned.

Niall blushed, "That sassy talk shall get you into trouble young lady."
He
lectured.    " If you spent more time on your studies and worked your
spells
instead of challenging everyone around you out of spite."

Niall stopped his lecture as he noted Dagney's downcast look.  < What
does
she know of her mother and I?  Is she teasing or jealous? >

Dagney hated it when Niall was cross with her.  She didn't like having
to
share him with anyone.  Niall had always been her constant companion;
he was
her father, her friend, and her teacher.  He told her how special and
gifted
she was.  Dagney couldn't help but feel jealous that he appeared to
love her
mother in a way that he didn't her.  Dagney in her Druid studies
watched
nature and was well aware of how animals mated.  She had a hard time
thinking
of Niall mounting her mother like a stallion.  < Well she could imagine
Niall
all-powerful and strong but her mother.,.. ewee. > Dagney didn't
understand
why humans wanted to lose control like animals anyway. < Perhaps I need
to
study this a bit more to comprehend the power and use of copulation,
outside
the need for procreation>

" Come Dagney, lets see you levitate that rock there." Niall said
pointing.

~~~~~~
Daire had started out as a livestock handler in Cormac's army.  He had
this
job until six months ago when he had joined a fierce battle against
other
clan of Vikings trying to overrun Cormac's territory.  Cormac himself
had
witnessed Daire's bravery and prowess in battle.  Cormac decided to
make the
lad his aide de camp.  His nephew Liam was about the same age as the
lad
Daire.  His nephew Liam was bright enough but lacked some of Daire's
natural
grace and skill in battle.  Cormac knew that he intimidated Liam but
hoped
that having a younger peer around would help Liam grow.  Cormac watched
the
two young men practicing their dueling.  Liam was gangly, thin and
blond, as
Daire was larger in build and dark of coloring.  Cormac noted that
Daire had
quite the temper.  He had seen the boy stab several opponents with his
icy
blue eyes before running them through with his blade.  < If only Liam
had
that passion. >
~~~~~~

Dagney had been spying again and overheard her father speak of marriage
to
Dermot O'Leary, a large landowner that was loyal to her father.
< I shall never marry.  Besides Dermot had outlived two wives, he has
bred
six sons, why should he want to remarry? >  Dagney ran off in search of

Niall, he would help her figure out a way to dissuade her father.

Dagney had looked all over for Niall.  < Where can he be?   I need him.
 
Perhaps mother knows where he is. >  As Dagney entered her mother's
suite she
heard moaning coming from her mothers bedchamber.
< Mother must be ill.. I can help her with some herbs or a spell. >
Dagney
quickly moved to her mother's door and opened it.  Dagney saw Niall's
naked
ass lying upon her mother's bed and his head between her mother's legs.
He
looked like he was devouring her.  He had his hands on his mother's
breasts.
He was hurting her.  Her mother cried out in pain and her eyes glazed
over.
Dagney picked up a water basin and brought it down on Niall's head.
Clio yelled in shock and outrage.  " Dagney… what.. Oh my…" Niall
had rolled
off the bed with the impact of her blow and was lying on his back upon
the
floor groaning.  Dagney eyes were drawn to Niall's swollen member.
She
looked back at her mother, who was hastily pulling the sheets up, over
her
naked form.
"Hera?"  Dagney swore  "Explain this … why was Niall hurting you?"
she asked
tears in her eyes.  She felt betrayed by her best friend.   Dagney
noticed
her mother's embarrassment and deduced that this was not what it
seemed. It
was some sort of mating.  Dagney felt sick.

Niall moaned, he felt hot tears fall upon his face.  He opened his blue
green
eyes and his vision cleared.  He saw hurt green eyes boring into his. "
How
could you do this to me?" she cried.  Dagney stood up and screamed at
her
Mother HOW COULD YOU DO THIS TO ME?"     Dagney bolted from the room.

~~~~~~
Cormac asked to see both Liam and Daire.  "Lads I've an important task
for
you both."  " I want you to travel to Tara to see King Boru."  " I want
you
to inquire about him selling me some land adjoining Tara".

 Both young men were eager for the important task.
*****

Part 3:

Cormac explained his wishes to the two young men. He gave them
guidelines as
to what to offer. He also instructed them to look around Tara and
assess the
King's strengths and weakness. He reminded Liam and Daire that at some
point,
" the King may become an enemy." "Always investigate what the
competition has
to offer." "Most important if you truly want something bad enough, take
it
,use force if necessary." Cormac lectured.

He was interrupted by an older solider who clutched a young redheaded
girl. "
This one had escaped… sir.. but we managed to catch her." the solider

replied.

Liam and Daire watched Cormac. Daire knew that as part of the warfare
the
Viking army engaged upon, it was often common place to capture women
and
children as bounty. The army then traded or sold the prisoners back to
gain
either goods or to help settle into a peaceful accord. Daire had seen
Cormac
offer prisoners back to the defeated opponents in a benevolent manner
to coax
their loyalty.

Cormac moved closer to the small girl. He lifted her face and saw green
eyes
peer back at him. " You thought you were being a sly little fox, trying
to
best me!" Cormac growled. He backhanded the girl, splitting her lip
with his
ring.

Liam and Daire jumped at Cormac's violent outburst. Daire moved
forward, <
this girl is hardly older then one of my sisters> and put his hand on
Cormac's arm. Cormac seemed oblivious to his presence. He smiled at the
girl
lecherously. " I order you to take the girl into the camp. Every
solider
shall have his way with her, then I want whatever is left of her
brought back
to me!" he grinned evilly. Daire saw the girl shudder and felt a
corresponding shutter go through his own body. Daire had never seen
Cormac
this angry or vengeful. Daire saw Liam bolt from the room. Cormac
focused on
Daire, " Would you like to be first lad?" " I'm sure this whore has
spread
her legs before but best to have a piece before half the camp." He
snickered.
The girl whimpered and sagged in the soldier's grasp. Daire felt sick
to his
stomach. He had always seen his parents treat one another with love and

respect in regards to carnal acts. Cormac saw Daire blanch, " come now
boy
don't tell me yea are still a virgin?" " No need to be shy about it."
Daire
found his tongue, " This is wrong Cormac." He gave him an icy stare.

" You dare question me?" " You little whelp, perhaps you prefer a young
lad
instead?" Cormac ripped the shaking girl's dress from her small body. "
Look
at her lad, you can turn her over and pretend she is a lad."

" No!" " You must stop this!" Daire commanded, he felt his stomach
lurch at
the terror in the girl's green eyes.

" Cormac slapped Daire, " You shall never question my authority boy,
Ever!" "
If you can't get it up then you shall watch!" he ordered. He pointed at
the
solider; " You may take her first."

" Yes sir" he replied. He pushed the girl down and began to unbuckle
his
pants.

Daire moved forward to stop him. Cormac struck out again at the young
man. He
quickly subdued the struggling man and held him in such a way that to
force
his face upon the girl's rape. Daire shut his eyes, but he couldn't
shut out
the small girl's screams. He vomited. Cormac released him. " You're as
pathetic as my nephew!" he said in disgust. You and he should go now to
Tara.

Daire and Liam rode out of camp silently. "I don't know what comes over
his
sometimes." Liam said softly.

" Has he done that before?" Daire asked.

" Yes, he seems fixated and cruel when it comes to redheads." Liam
answered.
"I don't understand.. he is honorable and fair in battle but this." "
Once
when he had a slave raped by the entire camp he brought her back and
waited
till she regained consciousness.. then he tortured her violently." He
was so
angry with me.. he made me watch." Liam's voice shook. " He did
unspeakable
things to the women. " He seemed to get such pleasure out of making her

suffer and scream."

The two resumed their silent ride.

~~~~~~

Dagney ran from the room. She felt totally betrayed by the two most
important
people in her life. She long ago knew that her father was interested
only in
his kingdom. Dagney sought out her father. < I will not ever be
married>
Dagney interrupted a meeting her father was having with the physician.

" Father, I must speak with you." She said wiping tears from her eyes.

< I see she has found out I mean to marry her off to Dermot, sneaky
little
witch just like her mother. >

" Now Dagney, there isn't much to talk about, You shall be married by
tomorrow night, I will host the wedding feast." He said tightly.

" No!" " No." "I won't." she retorted angrily. The physician shifted
uncomfortably. The King was outraged. " YOU SHALL!" He roared.

The physician excused himself, " Go upstairs and wait in her chambers I
shall
have her brought up there!" the king snapped irritated.

" Dagney shook her head and her eyes flashed, " I won't allow it, and
you
can't make me." She spat at her father.

The king grabbed his daughter, " You shall do whatever I damn well
order" as
he shook her.

" Hah! You can't even keep Naill from between your wife's legs" she
said
angrily.

Dagney regretted her words as soon as they tumbled from her lips in
anger.
Her father's face was purple with rage. He slapped her hard. Dagney's
eyes
burned with tears no one had ever hit her before. Her father spat, " I
don't
care what that whore does." " You just better hope that that he hasn't
been
between yours!" he roared shaking her violently before letting her go
to fall
to the floor in a heap. " If you've been with anyone, I'll bloody will
ship
you off to a convent of that fanatic Patrick's." he said from clutched
lips.

That damn Dermot wants to make sure you aren't carrying another's babe
in
your belly. The doctor is here to make sure you are still a virgin. "
Father
please," Dagney begged, " I can't be married to him…" she reached up
to touch
his leg.

" I've had enough of your mischief and nonsense." " I should have
married you
off last year, your nearly too old, almost ten and seven." " Your
strong
willed enough that's for sure, so I can understand you not wanting to
be
under another's dominance, but you've got too many sniffing round you
girl…
it's only a matter of time."

Dagney raised her self up to her full height, " I am not some animal
that
shall be bought and sold as chattel."

" Yes, you are" the king said solemnly.

The king yelled for two aides, " take her up to her chamber, get four
of the
female staff to help the doctor.

Dagney yelled and tried to make a brake for the door.

" I won't let that filthy, horse doctor touch me!" she yelled, as she
was
dragged kicking and screaming from the door.

< What have I ever done to deserve that? Too bad she was not born a
man, a
mighty warrior she would have made.> The king swallowed some ale.

~~~~~ The doctor and the four women struggled with Dagney as she fought
them.
She swore all sorts of curses upon the doctor if he touched her. The
five
were unable to subdue the girl so the two aids were called back into
help tie
her up. The two aides left and two women stripped her from the waist
down.
She struggled and swore. " You shall have pig faced children" at the
women.
She threatened the doctor with loosing his hair. She watched in fear as
he
lubricated his fingers. She knew he was going to touch her there. < No
one
shall touch me unless invited ever. > She growled out at the doctor, "
If you
touch me I shall put a hex on you and your cock shall wither up and
fall off
like a dead leaf from a vine!" she threatened. " You know I have the
power"
she threatened her eyes burning into his.

He began to sweat. He looked at an elderly female servant. " You shall
examine the lass" " You will enter her slowly and feel for her hymen."
"
According to her father, she isn't fond of horses or men for that
matter so I
would expect her to be intact."

Dagney bore the indignantly of the older women's intrusion. She vowed
she
would not marry. < If my father wants to send me to a convent, so be
it. >

Both Clio and Niall heard the commotion and tried to get into Dagney's
chamber. The two aids didn't allow it. After the women and the doctor
left,
both entered her room. Dagney looked at her betrayers " "Get out, your
as bad
as him!" she choked. " Darling, please let us explain." Her mother
begged.
Naill just looked at her guiltily. " Get OUT" she cried.

Naill took Clio's arm. " We'll talk later."

Dagney cried for several hours. She fell asleep and woke up with a
plan. <
I'll fix them all. >

Naill was weary; it had been a long day. He was heartbroken over the
events
with Dagney. He truly loved the girl. He went to her father and
implored him
to not marry the girl off to Dermot. The king had scolded, humiliated,
and
threatened him. "If you interfere I shall send the chit away to a
convent and
you shall never see her again."

Naill entered his dark chamber and lit a lamp. He looked up as he heard
a
small noise. His breath caught in his throat. His cock jumped to life.
Dagney
was lying upon his bed naked.

" What are you doing?" he hissed unable to make his voice work
properly. He
couldn't stop his eyes from hungrily drinking in her alabaster skin,
her
firm, pert breasts and the dark mahogany of her soft curls.

Dagney felt her skin tingle as Naill looked at her; he hadn't met her
eyes.
She could feel his gaze devouring her. She felt a small shudder in her
chest.

Dagney parted her legs, " I want you to love me like my mother." She
said
breathless.

" Goddess Danu," he swore. He wanted nothing more than to bury himself
within
this women. His cock was so hard he thought that if he merely touched
her
skin he would come.

Dagney noted Nail's erection. She smiled, " I know you want to." She
said
coyly.

Naill turned his back to her and gripped the dresser, his fingers
practically
gouging the wood.

" Get dressed" he croaked.

Dagney was suddenly embarrassed by her brazen behavior. < Perhaps he
doesn't
want me after all. > Dagney hastily grabbed her clothes and bolted.

Naill swore and moved to the bed. He could smell her on his bed. He
unbuckled
his tight pants and stroked himself imagining himself inside her virgin

passage making her cry out in pleasure. He shot his seed quickly and he

moaned her name.

Dagney felt utterly alone. She refused to see her mother or Naill. She
conceded her father this battle but wasn't through with the war yet.
She let
her maids dress her in fine silk. She was to go downstairs to meet her
husband to be and break bread. < I'd like to brake his stinking neck. >
 

The King was worried that Dagney would make a scene. He was pleasantly
suprized with how charming and polite and submissive his daughter was
during
the feast. Dermot kept looking at his daughter like she was some sort
of
sweet. The king noted that Dermot's eyes never moved from his
daughter's
breasts. He felt a small wave of guilt. < It's for the best; perhaps
she'll
kill the old man. > He smiled. < As long as they consummated the
marriage, I
as her father would take over control of her estates wresting them away
from
the other male heirs. >

Dagney simmered in anger, her eyes careful not to meet her father,
mother's
or Naill. < That damn toad keep staring at my breast. I wonder if he'd
have a
stroke at the table if I popped one out from my dress. > She smiled
evilly.

Her father had prepared a chamber for them. Dermot took her arm
practically
drooling and escorted her to the chamber.

Once the door was closed her pushed her up against the wall and grabbed

viscously at her breasts.

Dagney shoved him backwards. " Now, Now lass, I'm to be yer husband you
can
relax and enjoy it or fight." " It makes no difference to me," he said
pouncing on her again. He dipped his hand under her dress to grab at
her
nipple and pinched it. Dagney opened her mouth to cry out and she found
his
tongue in her mouth. She practically gagged at his vile taste and
slowly
reached down and drew her dagger from her thigh. She brought it up
against
his face slicing him open from cheekbone to lip.

He stumbled back in shock his face burning. " You shall tell my father
you
changed your mind or I will start by cutting out your vile tongue and
precede
to cut you open till I slice off your cock" she said menacingly.

< I'm to old for this shit> he thought to himself.

Dermot came charging back into the banquet hall several minutes after
he had
just left. The king was still drinking his ale. Dermot had his face
covered
with a bloody towel. " The wedding contract is off, That wench is a
demon."
He spat and left.

The king jumped up out of his chair so quickly it hit the floor with a
bang.
He strode to the chamber bellowing " Dagney" She had bolted the door
from the
inside. He could hear her sobbing. She ignored his threats. A small
part of
him was impressed once again by her spirit. < Damn that girl is to be
my
downfall. I'll have to find a stronger man to break her spirit, and
someone
willing to get me Dermot's land.

The next morning Liam and Daire arrived at Tara. They met with the king
to
discuss Cormac proposal. The king had not met Cormac but was familiar
with
his reputation as a might warrior.

" Lads I think I can propose an acceptable deal for the both of us. "
Cormac
is still unmarried?" he asked

" Yes," Liam replied.

" My daughter is of marrying age, you know… I want only the most
suitable
husband for the kind lass… if Cormac will wed her; he shall have the
lands
adjacent to mine now owned by Dermot.

< She must be ugly as a boar if he wants to be rid of her. > Daire
thought.

"We will discuss it with Cormac, and get back to you." Liam replied

" If he consents, the wedding can be held in several months on
Samhain." < I
will need that long to begin to work on the girl so she doesn't mess
this up.
> the King thought.

Dagney remained in the chamber pouting, she had refused food and water
(although she was starving) and was going to be passive aggressive a
while to
punish her father. She was however getting bored. She wanted so much to
see
Naill but she thought he needed to be sorry for a while longer before
she
forgave him. Dagney was looking out the chamber window and saw two
young men
she didn't recognize. Her eyes took in a tall thin blond man. Her
breath
caught in her throat as she laid eyes on the dark muscular graceful
man.

Daire stopped.

" What is it?" Liam asked.

" Nothing" he replied. < It felt like someone was watching him. He
looked
around the courtyard looking for the pair of eyes that burned him. > He

looked up and his gaze was drawn to a darkened window. Someone is
watching me
from there. He stood and stared up with his icy blue eyes.

Dagney drew back from the window. Her chest tightened and she felt a
quiver
deep inside she had never experienced before. She saw his blue eyes. <
He
could not see me from this dark window. >

Daire turned his back upon the window, < he felt slightly aroused and
hungry>

" Let's go," he said to Liam.
*****

Part 4:

Dagney was dreaming: She was being chased running as fast as she could to
escape. She could hear hounds barking calling out to her: going to die, going
to die, in tempo with her heartbeat. She felt branches and trees slap against
her body. She broke free into a clearing. < Goddess Macha, a dragon with eyes
icy blue as water, eyes the same color as the dark haired man. Dagney woke
with a start. Her heart was beating so fast. She had a funny feeling in her
lower body. She felt tense and wet. < Hera, I've started my monthly again? >
Dagney got up to tend to herself. < That's strange, my flow wasn't blood but
clear fluid. > Dagney jumped at a knocking at the door. "Go away she barked."

" Open the door or I shall do it myself" Naill called.

" Go away" she replied petulantly

" Dagney it's been three days, open the door, Please." Naill asked softly.

Dagney rose from the bed and opened the door. Naill took in her unkempt
appearance and his heart broke. For all the girl's fire and bluster she was
only just a wee lass. He pulled her into his arms and hugged her tightly.
Dagney began to cry. " Oh Naill, it was awful... he... tried to hurt
me...he.. tried to bite my tongue and pull off my... she hiccuped.

"I know sweet, shhh." He held her while she cried. He pulled her onto his lap
as he sat upon a wingback chair. He had her drink some water. She looked at
him with sad eyes, " Is father very mad still?" she asked.

" No, he's... over it" < Time enough to tell her about the new match.>

~~~~~~

The red fox smelled of musk and wildflowers. He watched her clean her silky
coat. He wanted to lick her with his raspy tongue. She watched him with half
lidded emerald eyes.

He groaned and woke up, his member was swollen and he felt tense. <Damn what
is wrong with me, that's the third time I've dreamed about a red fox. Maybe
it's time I find a woman; else I'll be rubbing up against a tree. >

Liam was stirring the ashes of their campfire.

"We should be home today before supper." He commented.

" Yes,.. Do you think Cormac will contract marriage for the King's daughter?"
Daire asked.

" Not sure, he said he wanted land next to the king, I suppose he'll do
whatever it takes to get it, he usually does,... don't ever forget that
Daire." Liam answered.

Before their journey home the pair had done some exploring and investigating
the lands and people in Tara's domain. The men were doing as ordered;
collecting information that might prove useful to the Viking Cormac later.
The men had stopped in a local Pub and overheard a drunken man they quickly
learned was none other than Dermot lament about his disfigurement at the
hands of the demon Dagney. Liam ordered him another drink and asked the man
his story. Liam empathized with how painful the nasty cut on his face sewn up
with black catgut must be.

" Damn right." " Bloody witch" " I know now why the old maid is still a
virgin I tell yea." ' Looks like a vision all flaming red hair and jewel
eyes." " Nice set of tits too." "I think the damn druid got her under some
sort of spell or else she's plain possessed." He rattled on.

" What happened?" Daire asked curious. " Everyone knows here in Tara how
strange and wild the girl is. Her father lets her run wild everywhere with
the Druid. I expected the Druid had taken her, but the doctor said no.  He
said, the girl balked at the examine so much she had to be tied down. She
didn't want anything tween her legs,"he laughed. Dermot ran his hand
carefully down his sew up face. " Guess, that's what I should a done before I
touched her. She acted like no one every kissed her fore  It was to be our
wedding night, I only kissed her and copped a feel of her pert tits and she
drew a blade and sliced me to ribbons.  Damn bitch threaten to cut off my
cock too." Dermond swallowed his drink. "She would have to.. I told him the
marriage was off... now If I were a young man like yea lads I might have a
good time trying to tame that demon witch. I'll tell you, the King will be
hard pressed to pawn off that witch.Yes, she looks right sweet, but she's
feral."

Daire's thoughts came back to the present. He couldn't help but picture this
red haired girl much like the lass Cormac had had raped. Daire swallowed, he
had pledged to Cormac. Daire worried about this unknown girl, if she was half
as spirited as everyone claimed; Cormac might like the challenge of breaking
her.

" Liam, perhaps we should just tell Cormac that the King was unreasonable and
wouldn't consider any land." Daire said.

" Lie to him?" Liam's thought also drifted to this unknown girl and his
stomach hitched.

" The King gave us a letter outlining his wedding contract. If the King
follows up with another correspondence if he doesn't hear from Cormac.
Cormac would kill us both for treason if only to set an example." Liam
replied.

" Eye, your right." Daire answered.

~~~~~~ The King was friendly and loving towards Dagney. He apologized for
trying to make her marry a man who clearly was beneath her and was just
boorish to boot. Dagney was happy that her father showed her some care and
remorse for his actions. She also had come to a peace with her mother. She
and Niall continued with her studies. Niall knew he should be the one to tell
the girl of her father's latest plan to marry her off to a Viking warlord,
but he secretly hoped it wouldn't come to pass and things could continue as
before. He wasn't worried about any local men coming forward to claim her
since Dermot blabbed about Dagney's behavior to anyone who would listen. <
One might think the man would be shamed but no.>

As hard as he tried though he couldn't make things go back to the way they
were before Dagney saw him with her mother. Nor could he look at her for more
than a few minutes without imagining her naked as she was in his chamber.

" Naill, have you heard a word I've said" Dagney asked annoyed.

" What, Oh..yes.. the spell, repeat the incantation to be used for the cloak
of invisibility one more time." He asked.

Dagney did so; She blinked out of his vision.

" Splendid" he cried happily.

Dagney held her hands over Naill's eyes. "Boo." Naill jumped as he had
neither seen nor heard Dagney moved behind him. He twirled around and
captured her hands in his. He softly caressed several strands of her fiery
whips from her face. " That was wonderful".

She gave him such a warm inviting smile. Naill gave into the temptation to
kiss her. He lowered his lips to hers and placed a soft kiss. Dagney was
startled by his actions. < Maybe he does find me attractive. > Dagney's
thoughts suddenly drifted to the dark haired stranger with cold blue eyes.
She wondered if his kiss would feel like this. Dagney pulled back from
Naill's kiss. < What's the matter with me?  I've wanted Naill to love me like
this and now the first sign of affection he shows me I'm thinking of someone
else. >

Naill thought she had responded for a moment but then she pulled away. " I'm
sorry Dagney, I should have never done that." Naill said softly moving away.

" Naill, no.. its me.. I'm just a bit frightened as all. I' know the way's of
animal mating but after.. well after everything.. there is so much I don't
understand or know." Dagney explained.

Naill flushed and felt his erection straining against his too tight slacks. <
I want nothing more than to show you the pleasures of love>. " Perhaps you
should ask your mother"; he said his voice tight.

< He had to bring her up. >

~~~~~~

Cormac talked with Liam and Daire about the Kings proposal. Cormac was very
interested and thought marriage could be an even easier way of getting his
foothold into Tara. He agreed with the King's request to hold the wedding
feast on Oct. 31. Samhain. Cormac was to send some horses and fine silks and
lace as part of the wedding offer. Cormac was writing an acceptance letter to
the King to accompany the goods. He also was writing a note to his bride to
be.

" Aren't you curious about her?" Liam asked

" Who, the lass.. What's her name?" he asked scratching his head.

" Dagney", Daire chimed in.

"I could care if this Dagney is a leper, this is business boys. A wife is for
money, property and status." Cormac lectured. " You lads should get romantic
notions about love and affection in a match out of your heads. A man seeks
comfort in the arms of a lover or mistress.  If she is unpleasant I shall
only have to copulate with her until she bears me a child."

Daire shuttered at the thought of this man with this woman for some unknown
reason.

The King went to Niall to ask his assistance in helping him break the news to
Dagney of her upcoming wedding. The king pointed out to Naill, that the
Viking was rich and powerful and a good catch. He would likely leave Dagney
on his newly acquired lands once she was with child. Thus he reason, Naill
could still be with her. He winked at him. Naill wanted to smash the man in
the face. How could he prostitute his own daughter?

Even though Naill didn't like this situation, the King had a point, He could
still watch out for her if she was close by. Naill agreed.

Dagney appeared to take the news of her Wedding to Cormac the Viking with
aplomb. < Now they are both ganging up to rid themselves of me, so be it.. at
least I have about two months to formulate a better plan this time. >

The time approaching the wedding feast flew by quickly. Dagney spent a great
deal of time being fitted with new gowns and reviewing with her mother
expected social protocol as would be expected a women in her position.

" Mother", Dagney asked causally, "Will it hurt much?"

" What, dear?" her mother asked distracted with her stitchery.

" Will it hurt when my husband ... takes me?" she asked.

Her mother blushed; she had never really spoke about the ways of things
between a man and a woman. Her mother knew she owed it to her daughter. She
needed to prepare her for her wedding night and perhaps if she were lucky she
might marry a considerate lover like Naill. If not then in time her daughter
might take a lover as she had.

Clio, cleared her throat, " Sit down dear." Clio knew that Dagney understood
the way of animals and how women and animals became pregnant. "Well dear it
may hurt a bit when your husband takes you." Try and get him to be patient
for you until your ready." Her mother said.

"How will I know when I'm ready?" she asked innocently.

" Oh.. well you will be slick at your center" her mother explained. " If that
doesn't happen dear.. he should use some ... lubricant." " How long will it
take for him to leave his seed?" Dagney asked.

" That depends dear, some men come very fast and others last a long time,"
she smiled thinking about what a skilled lover Naill was.

" So that's all, he enters me and looses his seed." "How many times must he
do this before I become with child.?"

" That also depends" her mother chuckled.

" This copulation seems very messy and inexact." Dagney answered frowning.

" Yes but with the right person you can have great pleasure darling." Her
mother smiled.

"Is it like that with you and Naill" Dagney asked softly looking down.

" Yes" she nodded.

" Mother, what was he doing when I interrupted that day?"

"Dagney, men and women can pleasure each other greatly when they use their
lips and tongue." Her mother blushed red.

" Pleasure how?" she still didn't understand.

"Dagney when you touch a man's member it gives him great pleasure. That's why
it gets hard from pleasure. Women have a small organ that is hidden between
our folds that also can give us great pleasure when touched.

" Oh" she said curiousely

Her mother changed the subject but Clio knew she was going to need to seek
out her lover soon as she was wet from excitement in thinking about him.

The wedding feast fast approached. Dagney had received several letters from
Cormac. He at least seemed to have a brain in his head. < I however, still
won't marry him.>

Both Naill and the King were wary of Dagney's acceptance of her upcoming
wedding. Both silently prayed that the girl would go through with it.

~~~~~ Cormac had brought Liam and Daire back to Tara for his wedding feast.
The day of the feast Liam was asked to present the bride to be with a special
gift. He was granted entrance into her private chamber under the supervision
of her tutor Naill.

Liam had never seen a lovelier creature. Her hair was on fire, and her eyes
when they looked at you were like music in his veins. Dagney accepted the
gift and asked the young man to tea. He excepted and tried hard to make small
talk and not embarrass himself in her company.
~~~~~~
" Daire, Cormac is such a lucky man" Liam gushed.

" I had tea with her, she is the most beautiful creature I have ever seen."
He babbled.

" Eye, like you have occasion to spent time with any fine ladies." Daire
teased.

" You'll see, there is something about her.

That night the entire wedding party was waiting at the banquet table for
Dagney to be escorted in an introduced to her husband by Niall.

Liam sat to Corm's right and Daire to his left. Dagney was to sit across from
Cormac.

Daire was drinking wine when she entered the room.

Dagney's eyes quickly swept over her husband to be. < Ha another old man, if
my first plan fails perhaps I shall resort to my last success. > She smiled
brightly.

Daire saw her and sucked in a deep breath. The problem was that his mouth was
full of wine and he began to choke. Dagney wore her fiery hair upon her head.
Little red ringlets caressed her face. Her forest green silk gown was low cut
and showed off her long neck and a great amount of her creamy breast. The
dress clung to her tiny waist. Daire started to choke violently.

Dagney's eyes had moved from her husband to be and drifted over his aid Liam.
She looked at the source of the choking and her heart stopped beating. This
was the well-built dark haired man she had seen several months ago. < Hera,
he is like a sculpture. > Dagney's knees suddenly felt weak and she felt a
strong flame of something she had never experienced before shoot from her
breasts to her core.

Naill felt her shudder, " Are you alright Dagney?" he whispered in her ear.

< No, I'm most definitely not all right.>
****

Part 5:

Dagney composed herself and tore her eyes away from the handsome blue eyed
young man. Dagney smiled, and whispered to Naill, " Fine, Fine."

Cormac was distracted by Daire's choking and moved to tap him on the back. "
Are you alright boy?"

Daire managed to catch his breath and flushed an even deeper shade of red due
to drawing attention to himself.

Naill stopped in front of the table. " May I present Dagney Boru soon to be
Lady Cormac."

Cormac was surprised with how lovely his bride was in spite of her vile red
hair. He noted how protective the Druid was of her. Cormac thought the Druid
might be useful to him. He had limited personal experience with these holy
men, but had been beaten several times in battles where his opponents had
magical assistance from Druid's.

The men all stood as dictated by protocol. Dagney's father moved to her side
bowed and kissed her hand. Each male guest in turn approached the bride to
be, bowed and kissed her hand and addressed her as "Lady"; introduced
themselves and respond, " at your service". Liam was awestruck at Dagney's
beauty. As he approached her to give the required greeting he wiped his
sweaty palm upon his breeches. He bowed nervously, unable to meet her eyes
and took her hand gently and placed a small kiss upon her knuckle and managed
to croak, "Lady, Liam at your service"

Daire couldn't keep his eyes off her. He watched her respond with apparent
indifference to each of the male guests. Her skin was like cream, and her
hair was the color of a burning fire. He felt a twinge of jealously as she
gave Liam a small smile, the first evidence of any emotion she displayed.
Daire berated himself, he realized he was next to rise and greet her and he
had a raging erection.

Dagney could feel the blue eyed man gaze burn her skin. < Deep breath, ignore
him, you are a Druid. > Dagney sensed his approach, she kept her eyes
downcast not wanting to make eye contact with this young man. Daire bowed, "
Lady, Daire at your service." He touched her hand, he suddenly felt like he
had been run through with a heated blade.

Daney's eyes flew open and she looked into his eyes. < He has some kind of
magic power, for I feel warm and tense all over like I'm about to burst into
flames. > Dagney quickly pulled her hand out of his grasp before he could
kiss her hand.

Daire felt her pull away, and felt like he was loosing his life's breath. He
released her hand. < Excuse me for living and breathing you spoiled little
witch. > He moved back to his seat, and thus did not witness the interaction
between Cormac and her.

Cormac was just behind Daire and acknowledged Dagney, " Lady, Cormac at your
service." She composed herself and looked up into Cormac's eyes. He quickly
took her hand and raised it to his lips.

He noticed her green eyes and he felt a flush of anger and disgust, he
tightened his grip on her hand.

< He's hurting me> She tried to wrench her hand away from him because as soon
as she looked into his eyes and he touched her she felt herself shudder in
unbridled revulsion. < He has such dark soul.. he hates me.. he's evil.. Oh I
think I may vomit..>

He tightened his grip even more as he felt her try and pull away. < No you
don't.. I'll teach you some manners.. bitch..> He raised her hand to his lips
and opened his lips and bit her knuckles slightly and then quickly released
her hand.

Dagney wanted to bolt from the room. < Oh Hera, the spell has to work.. this
man is evil.. vile.. dark..> She felt faint; Niall noticed her skin pale and
saw her pulse point in her neck beating like a captured bird.

He took her elbow and guided her to her chair.

All the guests had been reseated. Naill sat down next to Dagney. Naill looked
at the two men who had upset his student. Naill noted Dagney seemed unsettled
and unnerved by the younger man. He had witnessed and been at the receiving
end of most of Dagney's mecurical moods but had never seen her as genuinely
flustered and as uncertain as she was when the man touched her. He was
shocked when she pulled out of his grasp.

Niall was downright disturbed with the ripple of fear he felt come off her
when Cormac touched her. Dagney was practically fearless. Naill knew her well
enough to know that when she felt even the least bit afraid or disturbed she
usually challenged herself by trying to best the person that was causing her
distress. Naill had witnessed Dagney's hidden fear on numerous occasions but
he had never seen her so shaken, he smell the fear on her like she was a wild
thing caught in a trap.

Naill began to worry. None of this bode well. If he knew her the lass had
something planned well in advance to wreck this contract? He only hopped she
wasn't foolish enough to challenge herself and ignore her fear of this Viking
just to prove something to herself or lash out in spite. The more Naill
thought about either action she might take the more concerned he was for her
safety. Her father will likely thrash her to within an inch of her life and
send her away to try and break her. Naill looked at Cormac across the table
he had expected to see lust or curiosity in the man's eyes as he perused
Dagney. He felt a tremor of fear run through his body. That man looks like he
wants to kill her.
******

Part 6:

"Life has no friend; her converts late or soon Slide back to feed the
dragon
with the moon."
 
 

Dagney swore silently to herself as she saw the serving girl refilling
the
wine goblets from the smaller of the two pitchers. <She should have
used the
largest one first damned imbecile. The largest pitcher contains the
enchanted
stone upon which the trust spell had been cast. The spell was to put
everyone
soundly asleep except the person whom was most trustworthy. Dagney had
a bag
packed and was ready to flee Tara as soon as the spell was decisive. >

Dagney felt Naill's hand grip hers under the table. She expected that
Naill
was the one who would remain awake. He would be angry at first but once
he
thought about what she had done and the wrath and embarrassment she
will have
caused for both her father and Cormac, he would realize he had no
choice but
to leave with her.

Both Cormac and Daire noted that Dagney and Naill appeared to be
holding
hands under the table. Daire berated himself for his feeling of
jealously,
even Cormac himself had made some comment before that his bride was
likely
bewitched by the Druid. Daire, shook his head, and took another drink
of wine
as the servants brought out the first course of the meal. Besides, she
was to
be Cormac's… her red hair and green eyes and..Daire looked at Cormac
out of
the corner of his eye. He took in his master's slowly seething rage
just
below the surface. < He doesn't like this situation either… but he
wants to
punish and hurt her> Daire felt sick to his stomach, how was he
supposed to
make small talk, eat, not look at the redheaded siren, and not be
worried
about his master torturing his newlywed. He took a big gulp of wine.

Cormac clutched his fist under the table drawing blood with his
fingers. That
wench will have to learn who is boss and this type of brazen behavior
will
not be tolerated. He took a big gulp of wine.

The king managed to do most of the talking as the dinner was served.
Dagney
had drained two goblets of wine herself, and managed to push food
strategically around on her plate to give the illusion that she was
eating.
She managed to make meaningless small talk. Dagney avoided looking at
Cormac
in the eye. The two times she couldn't avoid his eyes she felt bile
rise into
her throat and thought she might heave. She tried to avoid looking at
the
blue eyed Daire, despite her intent she found her eyes being drawn to
him of
their own volition. Each time she looked at him she found him staring
at her.
Dagney felt like she was on a precipice sitting too close to an open
fire
with the man Daire and balancing away from the cold edge of purgatory
with
Cormac.

Dagney told herself it wasn't going to be much longer. She saw the
servant
begin to fill up the wine goblets from the enchanted picture.

" Naill, would you honor me with a toast?" Dagney asked.

"Certainly" he replied. " To Dagney and Cormac may they have a
prosperous and
healthy union."

The wedding party raised up their goblets and drank.

Within seconds heads dropped silverware and dishes clattered noisily.
Dagney
felt herself sigh and take in a big cleansing breath. She looked to her
left
to see Naill, < sound ASLEEP. Hera! >

Daire saw everyone begin to fall asleep. He saw Cormac drop his head
unto his
plate with a loud splat as his unconscious form sent food flying.

Daire jumped up, he heard Liam exclaim, " What is happening?"

Dagney looked across the table and saw Daire on his feet and Liam
sitting
open mouth and in shock his hand still clutching a spoon full of
vegetables
half way to his mouth.

<Hera, how can both Cormac's men be unaffected by the spell. She saw
them
drink the wine. Now what? >

Dagney rose slowly, < I shall pick Liam to help me.. He seems such a
gentle
soul and besides I can wield my influence over him quite easily. >

" Do not be alarmed, they are only asleep for a short period of time. I
have
cast a sleep spell so that I may escape. I shall not be married to
Cormac or
any man."

Dagney looked at Liam, " I ask that you run away with me?"

Liam dropped the spoon and it clattered against his plate, " Me," he
squeaked
and flushed scarlet."

" Oh my lady, I am flattered thee has chosen me, but I can not as there
is a
geis preventing me from taking a women that belongs to my uncle." He
replied.

Daire was stunned; the witch had cast a spell on everyone, except
himself and
Liam seemed immune. The witch asked Liam to run away with her..

< This is just great; the old guys are lining up and the young
acceptable men
have the nerve to refuse me. > Dagney looked at Daire. She swallowed
hard and
licked her lips. " I ask that you run away with me?" she managed to
whisper
not able to look him in the eye.

Daire felt his mouth drop open. < The nerve of the little witch, she
asks me
now after she picked Liam> "I cannot lady," he replied sarcastically "
a geis
prevents me from running away with anyone who has chosen my friend Liam
as a
consort."

Dagney stared at Daire indignantly, < How dare that impudent young
man…
refuse me.. > " I place a powerful geis of danger, destruction, and
dishonor
upon you, unless you take me out of this house tonight before Cormac
and my
father awake." She said haughtily

Daire laughed, "If I run away with you, I shall meet my death and
destruction
all right, at the hands of Cormac. You are pledged to him."

"I am pledged to no man, you will help me… Please?" Dagney asked her
voice
softening. < I have to get away from here; Naill will wake up and come
after
me. >

Daire shook his head, this women was crazy as the man Dermot had said.
Daire
looked at the sleeping Cormac; he looked back at the beautiful lady
seeming
to plead with her emerald eyes. He looked back at Liam, and then
Cormac.

" He'll not like this turn of events and he will not renege on the
marriage
contract." Liam spoke aloud" "He won't like the lady besting him at
all."
Liam swallowed and his complexion-blanched pale as he thought about the
kinds
of punishment Cormac could inflect on this fair creature.

Daire also thought about Cormac. If he took this women away his career
with
the Viking would be over. He most likely would be thought of as an
enemy and
perhaps if caught killed for treason. He weighed this out with thoughts
of
Cormac punishing the witch. Daire decided quickly

" Very well, I shall help you get away safely, but that is all. I will
then
leave you to your own devices." He said.

" Fair enough we must hurry, I have packed a bag and a haversack of
foodstuffs." Dagney exclaimed. She looked back at Naill and moved over
and
placed a soft kiss on his sleeping brow. < until we meet again>

" I thought, you wanted to leave in a hurry?" Daire snapped. < She
wants to
stop and fawn over her lover>

Dagney gave Daire a scathing glare, " This way, I've left the bags near
the
stables."

The two moved quickly towards the stables. " Hitch up a wagon" she
ordered.

" We, cannot get away in a wagon." He explained briskly. "Cormac will
give
chase with his fastest horses. We will take two horses and I will turn
the
other loose to roam. This it will be harder for them to follow as
quickly."
Daire plotted.

" My horse is one of the fastest and we shall take Liam's horse, it
also can
move like the wind."

" No, that won't work." Dagney said stamping her foot from nervous
anxiety.

" Why not.?" Daire asked.

" Horse do not like me." Dagney replied somewhat ashamed.

" Daire laughed, " Your afraid of horses?" he couldn't quit believe
this
lass. She would stand up to her father and Cormac's wrath yet was
afraid of a
horse.

" No, They are afraid of me." She clarified.

" That sounds silly. Daire placed a saddle on his and Liam's horse. He
tied
on the bags ignoring Dagney comment.

" Here, he waved her over towards him, I'll give you a boost up. Hang
on to
the reins, once I'm mounted you need only hang on and I'll lead the
horse."

Dagney moved toward Daire, she felt lightening bolts of heat shoot
through
her as he placed his hands about her waist and lifted her onto the
horse.

Daire felt skittish himself as he touched her slim waist and lifted her
upon
the horse. The horse whinnied and appeared frightened as the lass
stated. The
horse eyes were almost white with fear. Liam had seen horses act like
that
only when they were frightened or tormented by a wild animal. The horse

raised up in his hind legs and attempted to throw off Dagney. She
gripped the
reins white knuckled and swore cursing Daire, " Dumb bullock,"

Daire spoke softly to the horse and tried to gently it. It reared again
and
Dagney flew off, her green dress tore from ankle to upper thigh as it
was
caught upon the saddlehorn. She eeeped loudly and landed on her ass
with a
grunt.

Daire quickly moved to her aid. "Are you hurt lady?" he asked
worriedly.

Dagney sat up slowly with a groan; she pulled hay out of her hair,
which had
fallen from its well-styled coiffure to hang wildly about her
shoulders. "
Just fine, no thanks to you!" she complained.

Daire offered her his hand to help her get up. She ignored his hand and

rolled onto her knees and raised herself up on shaky legs her ass
throbbing.

Daire eyes bugged out of his head as he watched her breasts strain
against
her tight bodice and threaten to spill out as she moved onto all fours.
His
eyes drifted as she stood up on shaky legs to a large expanse of creamy
white
leg and thigh exposed by the tear in her dress.

"What now Mr. Wizard?" she said insulting him her hands on her hips.

Daire's eyes once again feasted on her breasts heaving in anger and
exertion.
" We will have to take one horse." " My horse will mind me." He replied

huskily.

He grabbed the bag and handed her a cloak, " You should put this on, it
will
be cold." Daire was more worried about how he was going to focus if he
couldn't cover up the beautiful; witch's attributes. < he chided
himself, and
recalled what Dermot had said, 'she a pretty thing but dangerous and
wild';
besides she's in love with the Druid.>

Dagney placed the cloak about her shoulders and reached up to grab
Daire's
hand as he leaned down from atop the horse.

He pulled her up and she grazed his lap before coming to settle in from
of
him. Daire's powerful arms held her tightly as he gripped the reins of
the
horse and away they ran.
*****

Part 7:

"Life has no friend; her converts late or soon Slide back to feed the
dragon
with the moon."

Dagney's mind was reeling. Things hadn't gone exactly  according to
plan.
Here she was racing away from Tara, the first time in her life. She was

riding on horseback, another first. She was having a hard time forming
coherent thoughts. The blue eyed one, Daire, had his powerful arms
around her
gripping the horses' reins. It hurt to draw breath because every time
she
exhaled his forearms rubbed against the side of her breasts making them

tingle and tighten. She could feel his breath in her ear and felt his
muscled
chest against her back like a tall oak tree. The worst part was the way
her
femininity ached against the horse. She was stretched uncomfortably so,
she
was sure this was causing the tightening in her center.

Daire cursed himself silently. What was he doing? Cormac will kill me.
His
stomach rolled. Cormac will do worse than kill this lass. He had
witnessed
with his own eyes this witch's hex, which felled an entire banquet
hall,
except for Liam and me. This red haired beauty had totally bewitched
Liam,
not him.. no..

The witches red hair was assaulting him, the wind had pulled it out of
her
coiffure and was blinding him as her silky whips of fire lashed his
cheeks
and lips. He drank in her scent and felt intoxicated. He was glad that
his
bulky cloak was between them as he felt his manhood rub painfully
against his
pants and the back of her ass.

He let go of one of the reins and lifted his hands to adjust her hair
so that
he could see.

"What are you doing?" Dagney asked nervesouly as she felt his hand
brush her
temple and capture her hair in his hands.

" You hair's blinding me, I can't see a damn thing with it hitting me
in the
face." He ran his hand from her temple down across her soft cheek and
wound
her hair about his hand. He pulled it off her left shoulder and across
the
back of her neck. His hand brushed against the creamy column of her
neck. He
felt her shudder slightly. He could see her pulse point beating like a
wounded bird. He wanted to place his lips against this tiny throbbing
point
and feel her blood move under him.

~~~~~ Naill was the first to awaken. He saw the other guests begin to
stir. <
What has the child done? > The king woke and began to wipe food off his
face.
Cormac stirred and groaned. < I've been poisoned. > He thought he had
awoken
in his own vomit but as he looked around realized everyone had passed
out and
many had food and drink staining their faces and clothing. He stood up
his
chair crashing behind him.

" What trickery is this?" he roared irate.

The King knew Dagney was behind this. His eyes quickly scanned the
room. <
Where is that petulant child? > Cormac noticed she was gone also, as
was
Daire. Cormac wiped the residue of food from his face. He rounded the
table
and grabbed the Druid about the neck. "Where is the little witch?  What
has
she done with my aide?"

Naill wondered the same thing himself.

" Here, Here.." the King cried out. " Let's keep out wits about us, <
I've
got to think of something and stall and get that little sorcererss's
ass back
here>… call the guards.. Dagney's been kidnapped by his aide" the
King
pointed at Cormac.

" What?" Cormac roared.

" Daire would never cross me?" he replied.

" I want the Druid to explain what is going on?" Cormac released
Naill's
throat.

Naill gasped in fresh air. < I'm going to tan her hide> " I don't have
any
idea what is going on… it seems we've been placed under a sleep
spell." Naill
rasped.

"Yes and the red-haired witch is responsible." Cormac bellowed.

Cormac caught sight of Liam's clean face. " You, son, tell me what
happened…
you were unaffected by the spell?"

" Uh.. uhmm. Well… er… I…" he swooned like a women.

Cormac threw water in his face. " Wake up now!" " Liam, what happened?"
 

" Happened?" " I don't know" he responded innocently. < I only hope
they get
away because Cormac will kill them both.

" Where's Daire?" Cormac shook Liam.

" I don't know." He replied.

Two guards came in to report that, someone had seen Dagney and a dark
haired
man ride off on one horse.

Cormac ordered his men outside, "saddle up the horses, get the men.
They
can't have gotten far on one horse. Beside two on a horse will slow the

animal down."

The King blustered, " I want that man who stole my daughter punished
for his
insolence. I'll see him hanged, drawn and quartered in the courtyard
before
sunset tomorrow.  I'll pay a reward for anyone who bring my daughter
back."

Clio, glanced worriedly at Naill. < What has she done? > Clio knew her
daughter well enough to know she was responsible for this trickery. Her
heart
went out to the young lad who accompanied her.

Cormac and his men mounted and rode off. The king sent his men out in
pursuit
also. Naill took Clio's hand. " I hope she know what she is doing." He
sighed.
******

Part 8:
 

"Life has no friend; her converts late or soon
Slide back to feed the dragon with the moon."

Dagney felt even more tense as Daire touched her face and hair. < Oh I swear
I can fell his hot breath on my neck> She dug her fingers into the horse's
mane unconsciously.

The horse already skittish from having a wild creature riding with its master
reared up to try and dislodge this animal.

Daire was lowering his lips to kiss the throbbing pulse point on the witch's
neck when he felt her neck and shoulder slam back into his face. The horse
reared and whinnied in terror. He was surprised and he started to fall off
the horse, as Dagney was caught in his embrace she flew off the horse too. He
landed hard and Dagney practically landed on top of him on her side.

"Ouch!" The witch's elbow cracked against his ribs and he had also hit his
head as he fell. She quickly rolled off him and stood then began to swear at
him, " Hera, what is the matter with you? You're in the Viking's army and you
can't manage to stay on a horse?" She waved her hand at the retreating horse.
" This is unbelievable, why did I get stuck with you."

Daire slowly got up, brushing himself off, " I'm fine thank you for asking.
Listen little witch you are not stuck with me, it is I who was foolish enough
to try an help an ungrateful snob like you." He retorted angrily.

" How dare you talk to me that way, have you no respect?" She responded
indignantly her hands on her hips. The dark cape she wore gaped displaying
her breasts clad in green silk and an overabundance of naked thigh.

Daire raised his eyes from her enticing form and snapped back in response to
her rudeness. "Have you no respect?" he echoed. "You may talk to your
servants like that but not me... I'm not in your employ...Cormac should thank
me that I saved him from the likes of being married to a wench like you." He
spat his blue eyes narrowed.

Dagney slapped him across one of his chiseled cheeks. Daire caught the
offending wrist in his hand and jerked her forward. Their bodies crashed into
one another. Dagney had hit him without thinking; he had such a way of making
her feel all mixed up and confused. She hated that, she liked to plot and
plan and control the situation. He grabbed her and pulled her roughly towards
him. Her breasts smacked into his hard chest and she felt the funny wetness
between her legs again.

Daire's cheek flamed and his hand on her wrist was radiating fire up into his
chest to match that, which burned because of her heaving breasts pressed
firmly against his chest.. He was rock hard and very frustrated with the
whole situation. His body was on sensory overload but this witch was a
spoiled shrew.

" Don't ever hit me again or..." he threatened < he wanted to kiss that
snotty sneer off her face. >

"Or what" she sneered. < Why can't I think, Goddess my legs feel like their
going to give way. > Dagney tried to liberate her hand from his grip but her
pulling only brought his hand in contact with her aching breast.

"Don't toy with me, you'll be sorry witch" He growled < I can feel her nipple
though the material of her gown. >

"Lay one hand on me and I'll cut yer heart out while its still beating she
threatened!" < Please her body screamed>

" I heard from your first husband to be your prowess with a knife... but I'm
not an old man." He stared intro her flashing green eyes. His heart raced in
his chest as he envisioned her lithe, naked body beneath his. His prominent
arousal rubbed against her naked thigh as he struggled to get loose from his
grip.

< Goddess, was that his member against my leg, no.. it was too hard and
thick.... Stop this... imagining... he is insolent ...he's probably small
like a cat. >

Dagney succeeded in pulling away from him, almost falling backward because of
her shaky legs. " You little whelp, I'll turn you into a... a... scaly slimy
lizard" she hissed.

< He sucked much need air into his lungs, he let go of her wrist when his
cock rubbed against her thigh. I want her... not mine.. make her mine.. the
druid..>

"What, I'm shaking... Red... do you think you can manage it without your
Druid consort?" he taunted.

The latent sexual tension, emotional stress, and anger Dagney felt suddenly
coalesced into a sharp pain at the mention of Naill.

Dagney was missing him, she was angry that he wasn't with her, that he didn't
want her.. that he probably was glad she was gone.. She didn't understand why
he wasn't the one unaffected by the spell.. the one she had always
trusted.... Dagney felt tears well up in her eyes. < I'm just a pawn in a
game for territory.. Naill doesn't want me... I'm stuck with this stupid
swine... he hates me too.. She tried to push the hurt and pain down and
lashed out in anger.

"Naill's too busy with his head stuck between my mothers legs to waste his
time on me... I mean .."

" What?" Daire asked in shock < Did she just say.. head between her legs...
he visualized himself between her legs. Were her womanly curls the same color
as her fiery hair? Would her nether hair burn him like the wisps of fire on
her head? >

< Did I just blurt that out loud?  What must Daire think of me swearing,
ungrateful, little witch? > Dagney's faced burned in shame and she turned and
began to run. < I have to get away; I can't let him see me cry.. see me
weak.. he'll use it against me...>

He stood there like a statue, a rock hard marble statue. His eyes blinked and
he swallowed hard. He snapped out of his erotic reverie as he saw Dagney bolt
like a chased animal. He had this sudden vision from one of his recent dreams
of her as a tiny fox running for her life.. being chased to her death.

<No.. No..> he took off after her.
******

Part 9:

"Life has no friend; her converts late or soon Slide back to feed the
dragon
with the moon."

Naill had watched the Kings men and the Viking's men mount a search
party for
Dagney and Daire.

Naill gathered the necessary ingredients to cast a spell of location.
He was
going to go after the silly girl. He knew that if the Viking Cormac
caught up
with her he would enjoy punishing her for her impulsiveness. Naill felt
this
mans evil, he worried that not only would this man likely break her
spirit
but kill Dagney as well. The lad if the Kings men caught him would drag
him
back and kill him. The King needed to make an excuse for Dagney's
actions. <
I only hope the girl remains a virgin for if she lays with this man to
spite
me or her father then likely no one can save either one of them.

Naill gathered hair from Dagney's brush. He gathered a soft silk
chemise of
hers. He made a magic circle lit four candles and chanted to Danu. He
stood
upon one foot and reached out with one arm and closed one eye.

"Goddess Danu, assist me in finding Dagney, special child of the Tuatha
De
Danaan. Let my heart lead the way and find her before the brake of
day."

Naill mounted a horse and headed off towards the north. He felt his
heart
beat slow down whenever he strayed off the course that would lead him
to her.

~~~~~ Dagney ran as fast as her legs would carry her. She was going to
outrun
the pain and confusion; she was going to outrun the feelings of
betrayal. Her
heart pounded in her chest, her blood pulsed through her body, and she
felt
free and uninhibited and alive.

" Dagney, wait, come back… you'll fall and hurt yourself in the
dark." Daire
shouted as he ran after her. < She's running like a wild creature, I'm
having
a difficult time in catching her. Why isn't she stopping.? Can't she
hear me?
>

Daire ran faster he was thundering through the brush and started to
stumble
on a tree root but managed to right himself. He saw her lithe form like
a
shadow moving farther away in the dark. He saved his breath instead of
shouting and ran faster. She was within an arm's length of him. He
launched
himself forward and caught her waist and sent them both sprawling onto
the
hard ground a jumble of arms and legs.

He ended up on top of her pinning her to the cold ground. Her eyes
focused on
his, like she was coming out of a deep sleep. She yelled, " get off you

swine" and proceeded to squirm and push at him with her body. Daire's
ardor
had lessened during the chase but was quickly reasserting itself as
this
woman moved beneath him. The cloak she wore was gapping open thus he
was
pressed firmly against her thin silk dress. She stopped struggling when
she
noted his erection pressing into her midsection, and her eyes widened
even
more.

She opened her mouth to say something but couldn't form the words.
Daire's
chest heaved from his exertions and met her heaving breasts, causing a
charge
of electricity energy to shoot back and forth between them; much like a

lightening bolt unleashed from a stormcloud when it meets the ground. .
Daire
lowered his head to capture her parted lips, to feel her energy.

Neither Dagney nor Daire heard the horse approaching, " Dagney" Naill
called
out.    < She's very close and her heart is beating like a wounded
bird. >

Dagney, heard Naill's voice and she yelled to him, " Here, oh Naill"
she
cried. Daire rolled off her like he had been stabbed in the heart. <
Damn
witch and druid>
*****

Part 10:

"Life has no friend; her converts late or soon Slide back to feed the dragon
with the moon."

"Naill, Oh Naill, Dagney yelled, scrambling to her feet. She ran at him fill
tilt. His horse caught her scent and started to whinny in fear. Naill moved
the horse back and called to her, "Dagney not too close, your scaring Zeus."
He warned.

Daire had risen also, and watched as Naill dismounted. Dagney threw herself
into his arms, crying, " I knew you come for me!  I knew It !" she hugged
him.

< Aren't I the biggest ass, damn witch? > Daire shook his head.

Naill grabbed Dagney's shoulders and shook her violently, " You've no idea
what you have done with your nonsense" he growled.

Dagney eyes widened in shock, < Naill had never treated her like this, and
she had seen him angry but never likes this. > " You're hurting me" she
choked out.

Daire moved forward but stopped as Naill released her.

" Hurting you, I could bloody well tan your hide. Your father and the Viking
Cormac both have men out looking for the two of you." Naill looked up
acknowledging Daire for the first time.

" I don't care" Dagney replied hurt that Naill wasn't happy to see her and
that he  was treating her like a recalcitrant child.

" I told you I won't marry, I told my father, no one took me seriously so.."

Naill interrupted, " so you drugged everyone, and dragged off this poor boy."

Daire cleared his throat he was about to speak up.

" I'm my own person, and I'll not be with that bloody Viking.... He's...
evil.. I can feel it.." she responded.

Daire listened, < How does she know?>

"Yes he is, and he's angry that you made a fool of him. He'll not stop
looking for you till he finds you and then he wants to punish you." Naill
added.

< They both know Cormac's intentions> Daire was puzzled.

Dagney, shuddered, " He wants to see me broken."

"Yes," Naill replied and your father is trying to safe face blaming that boy
for kidnapping you.

" Him" Dagney laughed, "have the balls to kidnap me" she giggled. "I had to
threaten him and place a gise before he would help me."

Daire flushed angrly and once again was about to interrupt.

"It's not funny, Dagney, if your father's men catch him... he'll be made an
example of."

Dagney stopped laughing, < I don't want to see him hurt. > "No he shall
not.... He's...my consort," she said boldly.

Daire was just about to speak when he lost his voice.

" What? You have not taken him as your lover?" Naill asked incredulously.

" Yes, I have..you had your chance," she snapped, " Tell my mother I said
goodbye."

Naill grabbed her arm, " Just a minute, .."

Dagney pulled out of his grasp. " As my consort and our union being
consummated; as heir to Tara, any child I carry is an heir of my father's. My
consort is under royal protection. Let my father's army chase the Viking out
of our Kingdom." She replied flippantly.

Dagney left Naill standing with his mouth ajar.

Daire stood in shock, he felt like a horse had just trampled him. < That
bloody lying witch. > Dagney moved to Daire and put her arm about him and
leaned up and gave him a peck on the cheek. She whispered in his ear, " If
you contradict me, I'll tell them you raped me, you'll be killed."

"Naill, tell my father I've taken a consort and he's to get rid of the Viking
and I might come home." She smiled sweetly

" What have you to say, man?" Naill asked red faced.

" I... um... " Dagney pinched his ass hard.

He gripped her waist, and felt himself once again respond to her proximity
and touch. " I'd rather be damned as a lover than as a fighter." He replied
hoarsely.

"Naill, can you help me with some magic to evade the search parties?" she
asked.

" Yes, but you've both put yourself on a dangerous path. Dagney your father
may not care you've chosen this man. He may decide to have him killed with or
without any heir. He'd then be free to give you to the Viking if he still
wanted you. Cormac could kill him and claim you as his; as promised, he'll
only wait to see if you are with child; and there are ways to take a child...
You both are in grave danger. You can not stay in the same place for more
than one night."

Dagney and Daire gripped one another's waists possessively as they listened
to Naill speak.

" I can help you with a spell to enhance your powers to use earth's gifts to
create shelter and offer protection."  Naill exlained.

" Yes, please" Dagney implored as she moved out of Daire's embrace.

Daire watched as the Druid pulled out white lime from his haversack. He
watched Dagney make a magic circle. They each lit a candle and stood in the
circle. They chanted: " Goddess of earth, hear our plea allow your daughter
Dagney Covenant with your gifts of water, fire, stone and air"

Daire watched as Dagney and Naill cut their wrist and commingled their blood
and let it drip unto the earth.

"We give you our promise of blood, Protect Dagney and Daire and she shall
slide back to feed you Goddess."

Daire felt a slight tremor in the ground and saw a white aura leap from Naill
to Dagney.

" I need to return, before I am missed" Naill said.

" Please tell my father what I've said." Dagney asked.

" I will" Naill replied giving her a hug and kissing her cheek.

Naill looked at Daire, You are her chosen one, by the Goddess Danu, and I now
am also your servant. Naill bowed and then mounted his horse.

Dagney and Daire both stared after him.
*****

Part 11:

"Life has no friend; her converts late or soon Slide back to feed the dragon
with the moon."

" So we'd best find some shelter for the night." Dagney said.

" No, first lets talk about what little game your playing,"Daire exclaimed
exasperated.

Dagney blinked her emerald eyes innocently," What do you mean?"

"What do I mean?" he exploded.

" My head is spinning in trying to keep up with your trickery and deceit."
Daire glowered, his blue eyes shooting sparks into the dark.

"First, it Liam, run away with me, when he wisely refused you; I became your
next dupe. You threatened to hex me. You apparently are in love with your
mentor Naill, and if I understand correctly he's involved with your mother.
So you tell him, I'm your consort, to try and make him jealous... soldiers
from your father's and Cormac's army are chasing me down like a rabid
animal... and if I'm to stop being your puppet you'll tell them I RAPED YOU."
He snapped. " No wonder your father is trying to get rid of you."

Dagney listened to his ire and felt sorry for getting him mixed up in this
mess. < I only told them you were my consort so they wouldn't kill you if
they caught us..> She was feeling remorse until he cut her to the quick with
the remark about her father wanting to rid himself of her.

"You stupid Bull," she spat. "I was only trying to keep you safe, I felt
somewhat grateful for your helping me in escaping.  I am NOT IN LOVE WITH
NAILL," she said flouncing away from his angry countenance; "and furthermore
I wouldn't pick you as my consort if you were the last man on earth. "

Dagney grumbled under her breath as she walked away into the dark. " I don't
need any man's help... why I even thought.... I hate that .... brooding...
goat herder... so what...," Her tirade was interrupted by three soldiers on
horseback.

"Lookie what we have here, if its not Cormac's bride... in the flesh." He
laughed and dismounted followed by his two comrades.

" Look, you best leave me alone or else I'll...." Dagney threatened, but
began to back away and was about to turn and run, when the largest man
grabbed her by the arm.

" Let me go!" she yelled and slapped him.

The two other men laughed, " Darling, I so like a spirited lass and since
I've found yeah, I'll be collecting the finder's fee."

" You better let me loose, Cormac won't like you manhandling me." She
blustered.

All three men laughed, the shortest boasted; "Cormac said the first group to
catch you could fuck you silly for a week for we had to bring you back."

Dagney felt sick, < I've got to get away. >

Daire watched the situation trying to devise a plan to get the little witch
away from the three bastards without getting her raped and him killed.

Dagney sighed and moved closer into her captor's arms. " Well then lets make
the best of the situation shall we?" she purred. " One at a time and a little
privacy...?" she smiled up at the solider.

" He grinned evilly, Jon, Erik a little privacy for the lady eh."

Dagney heard one of the two retreating soldiers comment, " don't worry
O'Leary don't take long at all."

Daire was dumbstruck, what game is she playing now?

The soldier holding her captive put his other hand upon her shoulder and
leaned down to capture her lips. Dagney turned her head and offered her neck
< I'll vomit if he touches my lips..> he growled and nuzzled her neck and
grabbed her ass and picked her up. Dagney used his distraction to reach
farther up the slit in her dress and grab her knife. She unsheathed it and
stuck the bastard in the gut.

He howled in pain; and released her.

Daire moved forward he knew the other two soldiers would be back before she
could escape.

He knew he would have to unarm the soliders and then steal one of their
horses if they to get away.

Dagney saw Daire come at her from the dark and she waved her bloody knife, "
I'll gut yea bastard!"

"It me, Daire, I've come to help you. Try and stay behind me." He no sooner
finished these words when the other two soldiers came running out of the
dark, blades drawn.

Daire turned his own blade glinting in the crescent moon. Dagney stood
abreast of him waving her knife like a fury.

One soldier feigned a thrust at Daire and he parried the actual blow. Daire
managed to slice the soldier's forearm. The solider swore, " ye'll pay for
that you traitorous whelp.. you just want the little bitch all for yourself."
He panted and thrust again.

The second solider ignored Dagney and attempted to move behind Daire. She
lunged forward to try and cut him, and keep him from surrounding Daire.

The solider laughed and slapped her hard, causing her to fall in a heap.

Dagney scrambled quickly to her feet to see Daire holding his own against the
one solider but the second was almost upon him.

Dagney raced forward and propelled her lithe body at the solider flanking
Daire. Daire had managed to strike a disabling blow to the solider attacking
his front, but as he turned to block the blow from the second solider; he was
caught by his blade and Daire felt it rip into his shoulder and chest. He saw
a blur of motion and saw the solider go down hard and saw a mass of red-hair
cursing and stabbing at the downed man. " How dare you ... dung eating little
shit... you puss filled pox... hurt him.!"

Daire moved toward her, and called out to her, " Dagney, he's down, and most
likely dead... step away now."

She dropped her knife and looked at her bloody hands and arms. " Oh Hera, Oh
Goddess, she lurched back off the man and heaved.

" Tis all right" Daire said trying to push her hair back away from her face.

Dagney caught her breath and wiped her face on her sleeve and whimpered as
she felt warm blood smear upon her face." Oh no.. ewe.. !" she shrieked and
she fainted dead away.
******

Part 12: