A Walk in the Woods (Tag Andraste)

[Andrew Schmidt]

A fresh breeze rustled the leaves of the various trees as songs of birds could be heard.  A smile crossed the face of scruffy looking man.  His long hair had been tied away from his face as the linen shirt billowed slightly.  His fingers entwined with woman next to him.  Life could not be more perfect at this moment in time.  Thoughts of the war drifted off as Andrew pulled his wife close to him.  He brushed stray strands of hair behind her ear as he let his finger tips brushed across her smooth skin.  There was no one in this world that would fit him the way that she does.

"Before you even say it, I know there is no time for this.  The war can wait a few hours.  I want to just be with you in this moment, nothing but us.  It has felt like an eternity since we were together, by ourselves with no pressing matters to attend to."

He slowed his steps as he kissed the side of her head.  The smell of her filled his nostrils as a hand rubbed her stomach.  It was taking every ounce of control not to slam her into the nearest tree.  He knew that she knew that as well.  He never pushed as he knew that she would end up leaving him on his back, bleeding.  Hell, any misstep in the wrong direction would cause that, it would just depend on how badly he messed up.  He didn't want to think of what would happen if he was to loose her.

Memories of their past came flooding as he remembered their first meeting.  He grabbed her attention as he was stalking a target.  She chased him through the streets of Jupiter's capital city, until he was cornered as he lost sight of his target.  They exchanged a few words before he was off again.  There was also gathering of sorts by the current queen of Jupiter.  He picked her out for a dance.  It was interesting as others pointed at them, whispering.  He cared little of others opinions as he wanted to get to know the woman who chased him.  There was an interesting party that was thrown by the Love witch.  It was nice to see her with her hair down after they took out the threat to the royalty earlier. 

He found himself chuckling as she denied him what he was truly after.  It was not something he found often happened.  He left her side as his duty to the kingdom was needed else where.  It would seem as if fate kept throwing them together.  He tried to deny this as he used his normal charm which she never fell for.  It took a subordinate to tell him that he was being a fool and just admit how he was really feeling.  He dropped his act as he let her into his heart.  The world changed after that.  He had modified his proposal before he had to go rescue his sister.  It was then that chaos broke loose as he died never truly knowing what the answer was.

When he found her in this life, it was like a fate gave them a second chance.  He never rushed into what they are now.  It happened naturally, only this time it ended the way that he wanted.  He sighed as he kissed her temple.  He basked in the moment of just them.  There would be more than enough missions and strategy sessions going forward.  He wanted what he desired for so long.   

"Dearest, I have an odd question.  What did you see in me so long ago to take me off the market?  Not that I'm complaining, just remembering the old days like the Silver Millennium and before all of this expansion and war."

[Andraste Kerik-Schmidt]

She was relaxed as he had taken her gear and dropped in the loft he slept in above the barn. She wasn't surprised by the questions. He always had questions but he also forestalled all her comments and questions she had for him. The walk was nice and his touch always drew her into his orbit. It was like he had a gravitational pull only meant for her. She didn't talk as they walked merely enjoyed his presence. That was all that mattered at this moment was him and her. This walk was something that she longed to enjoy and she was doing so. What bothered her though was what happened to the others besides them. She always had questions and that meant always asking them. Tonight though those questions would not be asked. She would be in the moment.

She turned and looked at him when he asked that question. She thought it obvious her answer. He was an unknown and one that made her examine who she was and the feelings that he elicited in her. He asked them and well she didn't know the answer then but she knew them now. That was what mattered to her was him and him alone.

"You ask the most obvious questions. You think I haven't thought about it. Even when we were separated and we lost everything the first time around I was still saddened by the thought that I wouldn't see you again. Even at the end of it all the first time. It was you and how you carried yourself that made me want to know you. That party though was what caused me to actually look at you more than just some guy who saw me as ticket to something more than they had at the time. I know you find it hard to believe but you can be charming when you aren't trying to seduce someone. You're seduction didn't work on me because I knew you had more to offer than just a night in bed. You still do but that is always nice at times. Who knows what this night will bring?"

She laughed as she leaned into him. The feeling of his body was enough for now. She would be playing this by ear as she did when all was lost again. This time though it was her who had found him and the relay network that gave coordinates of others like them.

[Andrew Schmidt]

His heart quicken at her words, more so the last ones. There was still a chance for them to explore what was underneath clothing. If he had his way, neither would be getting much sleep. In all honesty, she was here, at his side, where she belonged. It was the most important thing in this cruel world. He wrapped an arm around her shoulder as there was no space between them.

"You know it took someone to finally point out that I was trying too hard. They were right which led to now. Though you do realize that teasing me right now may end up being an all nighter."

He kissed her temple again as he chuckled. He could not help but shower her with bits of affection. They had been separated for so long. There was never a doubt that he loved her deeply as she was perfect to him. He kept them on the path as he guided her closer to a river that ran near the farm.

He pulled out a small wooden flower that he placed in his waistband as he thought about how he wanted to approach this next part. He had various wood cravings as each one was dedicated to her. He twirled it in his fingers as he guided her through some of the underbrush. The river would be prefect.

He stopped their stroll as he turned to face her. One hand cupped her face as a thumb ran across her cheek. He placed his forehead against hers. He brought the flower between them as the only sound was the water playing across the rocks filled the air.

"You, mi amour, are the only one who has ever brought out my sentimental side. As we fled across the stars, you were never far from my thoughts. Each planet that we stayed on had things that reminded me of you. I took up craving wood as to give something to occupy my time, more so my hands. This flower was one of the first places. We were on Elosser, lovely place full of gardens. Gods, I wanted you there and after this is done, I will take you there. This is a M'yry flower. It is said that when one receives it, true love will be with you even after death. You will always find you way back to the side of your lover. There was a bunch of other pretty things, yet you understand what I am getting at. I give this as a token as an expression that you have been and always will be my true love. Nothing in this universe can separate you from me."

He kissed her deeply as he tugged it into her hair. He knew that it was unnecessary which bothered him little. He had rehearsed the speech which fell short. He pulled back slightly as he smiled.

"I have and always will love you, my warrior goddess."

[Andraste Kerik-Schmidt]

The arm on her shoulder was comforting and made her feel better for searching for him instead of giving up and just letting herself descend into whatever small hells she would put herself through without the effort.

"I know that and it was something that takes two to make one and the other to realize what they needed and what the other was missing. That all nighter may have to wait."

The kiss on her temple was just one of his more charming features. He was tender and gentle. It was part of who he was when he wasn't being a shit and actually being the guy she had fallen in love with both times. His explanation of the flower was beautiful and when she was going to answer the kiss caught her off guard. Yes she felt the fire kindled and burn at the kiss but she had to master it or they would find that their cloting and decency would be abandoned right here. When he pulled back and said he loved her adding the warrior goddess on at the end that was enough for her. She didn't speak only started to pull his shirt over his head.

"Now...right here...now!"

[Andrew Schmidt]

He let out a chuckle at her words. His little tale was the truth as she was never far from his thoughts. He had pushed the right button as she gave in. The was walk was really meant just for the wooden flower. Her needs were the icing on the cake. He would do as she wanted.

He tossed his shirt to the side as he lifted her off her feet, wrapping her legs around him. He nipped at her throat, "As my warrior goddess commands. I shall occupy you until you have cried for mercy."

He pushed her against a tree, angling just right. It felt amazing as his Venisan instinct took over. He pulled up her shirts as he trailed tiny kisses on her bare skin. She still had that salty sweet taste that drove him wild. Her shirt pillowed her back as he continued on with showing her just how much he loved her.

[Andraste Kerik-Schmidt]

The funny thing about making love in the woods or any other area that wasn’t your bedroom was all the foliage and such. Andraste didn’t let such things bother her. She laid there afterwards on the pile that was their clothing letting the cool night air kiss her naked body. She relished the fact that she was next to Andrew and his rhythmic breathing spoke of him being awake. This was something she missed. She stretched and patted Andrew on his thigh.

“We should head back. I look forward to tomorrow and finding my place here amongst the simpler folk. It’s been a while since I’ve don’t honest work.”

She sat up and started to collect her clothing from underneath them. She shook out the twigs and such as she dressed. Her boots she decided to tie together and go barefoot. She nudged Andrew with her foot.

“You’re not this lazy. Let’s go back and sleep in a proper bed. You know like old times.”

[Andrew Schmidt]

The sun was hanging low in the sky as Andrew stretched out on his back. His finger tips left trails down her side. The afternoon was spent in various positions. Their bodies together made sweet music together. Today felt like it was when she first let him into her bed. He took in a deep breath as her scent filled his nose.

He popped an eye open as she talked about heading back. His plan had been side tracked with the river. He rolled to his side as he watched her get dressed. It mattered not what she did, she had captured his eye and heart. He touched any bare skin as he sighed.

"Well I have only rested as I have more that I want to happen. The flood gates of my need have been released. As you well know, this is only the tip of the iceberg."

He grabbed what he wore as he dusted off the various debris. He slowly pulled on what he wore as he buttoned up his shirt. His hand ran through his hair as he smiled at her.

"We could also continue the walk. I did actually want to show something that I have been working on for quite some time. There was a plan besides getting you alone." He pulled her close as his arms wrapped around him. He kissed her gently before resting his chin on top of her head. "I just want to enjoy more of the quiet with you. And I promise you, we will sleep in a bed for as many nights as we are together. This one will be more comfortable now that you are here."

[Andraste Kerik-Schmidt]

She took a deep breath as she was pulled close and kissed. She had missed this and thought about it while searching for him. When he told her he had been working on something she decided to bring up a point with him.

“Is this besides working on Max’s nerves? You know he could very well hurt you with his sheer strength alone. I’m not doubting your skill but he was going to maul you like a bear mauls it’s enemies.”

That had been the only sour spot of her day. She didn’t want him at odds with Max. That could complicate things if they needed to leave in a hurry. His small fun could lead to Max deciding to give any pursuers a point in the right direction. She wanted to believe Max was one of the simple folk but he may contain just enough animosity toward Andrew to help the authorities.

“I would like to see what you have been working on. Lead the way.”

She had been the one who wanted him and his saying this hadn’t been a ploy to get her alone rang as the truth. She had wanted what she wanted. Now she was ready to see what he had been up to.

“I know you didn’t intend this walk to work out as it did. I was a bit greedy. You may blame me. Now what have you been up to?”

[Andrew Schmidt]

He stepped away from her as his arms dropped down to hold her hand. She made a good point about Max. He pushed buttons on purpose or to keep his skill up. He lead them back to the path they were taking. He bided his time before answering her.

"The man is unusually strong. I guess it is a game with myself to see how far I can push before he breaks. I also know that if Zowie is around, I will be okay. A skill is only worth having if one remembers to exercise it. Though we should start training again. I know a fight will be coming soon."

He laughed as she mentioned being greedy. He kissed her temple, "No, mi amor. It was I who was a little greedy. I might have pushed you into relieving some of the tension. I have been wanting to relieve you of your cloths since the moment I saw you. After all, I knew it would not be hard."

He saw the tree the bent over the path has they neared his surprise. He stepped in front of her as he covered her eyes. He whispered into her ear, "No peeking." He glanced between her and over his shoulder as the wooden frame came into view. It was the house he had been building with his own two hands. It was small yet the place he imagined for them. It was perfect for them.

He let his hand fall away, "Now you can open them. It is not much but some place for just us."

[Andraste Kerik-Schmidt]

Andraste was willing to play along with him and what he was up to this time. She didn’t have any worries he would play a joke or have something thoughtful in mind. It usually was very sweet if that were his intentions and when it wasn’t she usually ended up wet and having to remove her clothes which also was another thing he enjoyed.

“I won’t peak as long as it doesn’t end with me having to remove my clothing....again.”

The last said with him knowing very well what she meant when saying that. She let him lead and direct her. It wasn’t to hard when you trusted someone with your life. When she felt his hand leave her face she opened her eyes as he was saying to open them. She felt her breath catch. It was a small house. She looked at Andrew and smiled in appreciation. She hugged him and decided to ask what prompted this but didn’t ask.

“A little get away. I can see you have been very busy here. I would have never taken you for a carpenter. That’s very good to know you have other skills.”

She waited for him to lead her in and give a tour.

[Andrew Schmidt]

"If I wanted your clothing removed again, it would be fairly simple. I would say what happened by the river was something we both need. Mi amor, you do know that I have some self control."

He kissed her temple as he waited for her reaction. Tiny beads of sweat formed on his brow as he watched her. His hand gently squeezed hers, knowing this was just the outside. He still had plenty to do with getting everything perfected. Her praise was all that mattered.

"Hard not to pick up on some skills when out in the middle of no where. Unlike Annabelle, I have been marooned on the planet. It has almost kept me out of trouble. I'm still working on the inside however the frame work is there."

He lead her in through the door. The framework was mostly bare aside from two completed walls. There seemed to be enough room for them and then a little extra. He pulled her along, "It is just one story which I thought was best. I have a little training room in the back as well as a sitting room. I figured should we need to clean, we can carry the water or just bathe in the river. I have a place for a stove as well as a workroom for myself. There is a good size bedroom for us as well as one for a guest or child. If anything, it can be our temporary home now that we have been reunited. I can add one a little more if you think we need it."

[Andraste Kerik-Schmidt]

This was a wonderful surprise but he already know that wherever he was a home. It didn't matter where it was but who occupied it and who she shared it with. She also had a lead on someone for them. She didn't want to bring it up right now but have this moment. It was s great moment and she wouldn't ruin it with news of that woman. Annabelle was still Annabelle and wouldn't try to blend in and that was sad. She may have to give that information sooner than later. Although Annabelle may not take it well. She couldn't understand those two but she would give the information anyways, Annabelle deserved to hear about it.

"It's wonderful and what happened by the river was what always happens when we have been separated for longer than a few months. It is just how we are when the situation allows it."

She smiled a little stiffly at those thoughts and it explained why he was causing trouble.

"She off recruiting again or just keeping you out of trouble. I know that she doesn't mind leaving you where she knows you can't cause to much trouble but here is the best place for you to get into trouble. I don't think she sees it."

She marveled at the skill he had used to get the frame work up and ran her hand lightly along the rough timbers he had already placed. She examined the supports and how he had reinforced it while he put the roof on. This was definitely a new skill he had never demonstrated before hand. He still had a few surprises left in him. That was always good and this was truly a gift.

"Yes you have been very busy. Let's for now leave our clothing on while we talk I have some news to give you and then you can decide whether or not we tell Annabelle right away or make her wait. After all she has left you here to learn new stuff. Patience would be a good skill for her. You agree?"

[Andrew Schmidt]

He chuckled as the conversation turned to his sister. Annabelle was always off doing something. She was not one to sit still, much like he was. He shrugged, "Or more so that Max will put me back into line should I stray too far. She is hardly gone for more than a few days at a time. I do wonder if she got herself into a bit of a pickle as it has been slightly longer than that. I think she will have less to worry about now that you are around."

He let her look at his handy work. It was a shame that he did not have a lot of time these days to work on it. It will be a nice change once the harvest was in full swing and the livestock did not need as much attention. For now, he would come here with what little free time he had. There was a second purpose to the hut though he did not have to do his job just yet.

He laughed as he shook his head about leaving cloths on. It made him think that she was ready for rounds three and four. He sat down towards the edge of the house which faced the river.

"We both know that my twin has left me in a place were I will not cause her mission to go ary. No faint hearts will swoon under the little attention I give. And yes, Max has almost always squashed that with Zowie. I chose to pick up new skill or be bored out of my mind which never ends well. My skill set has not been needed in quite some time. Teaching her patience is like teaching a cat to be obedient. I dare say that we can try. What is it that you have to tell her?"

[Andraste Kerik-Schmidt]

That one was quite the imposing figure and it made sense that she left Andrew here while she was away when he wasn't needed on the mission. Max was a daunting person to say the least and if he ever was truly angered that would be a horrible day for the person who was the focus of his anger.

"I believe that you and Max could truly hurt each other and not in a fun or amusing way that I would like to see. I suggest you make your peace with him because if I have to intervene I will hurt the both of you, severely."

"We both know that my twin has left me in a place were I will not cause her mission to go ary. No faint hearts will swoon under the little attention I give. And yes, Max has almost always squashed that with Zowie. I chose to pick up new skill or be bored out of my mind which never ends well. My skill set has not been needed in quite some time. Teaching her patience is like teaching a cat to be obedient. I dare say that we can try. What is it that you have to tell her?"

She didn't like the fact that Annabelle had grown to not taking Andrew, that was something that worried her. Andrew always watched her back and without that someone Annabelle was taking a risk that wasn't needed to be taken. She was relieved and worried at the same time. His new skill though was nice and actually impressed her. She liked that he was trying his hand at being domestic. It was a nice change of pace. His comment about his sister not having patience caused a small laugh. It was true though.

"The new skill set is excellent and I like it. When we finally have time to have kids you will make a wonderful Mr. Mom. You know since I'm not giving up a career for that nonsense. Zowie you will leave alone. She is sweet and a naive. You are such a terrible person sometimes. I think you want to either get smashed by Max or push him to do something that would be grossly terrible for him without a little bit of training. You could always teach him how to gently attract her attentions instead of trying to push him. I mean that would be most delicious to see you trying to teach Max how to be a bit seductive."

That last part though of his other skills was distressing. A skill was like anything else. You had to work it constantly or you lost touch with it.

"There is nothing wrong with not bringing you when your skill isn't needed but it never hurts to bring you to keep other skills associated with it honed. I don't like that one bit."

She bit her lip and looked up at the rafters. It was a well made house. It reminded her slightly of the house she had grown up in on Jupiter. It was small and untidy but this wasn't anything like it. It was made with love while her other life contained strife and anger. She smiled as she looked at Andrew.

"I found her...the only one to ever tempt Annabelle with more than a mission. I know where she is and what she is doing. WE can always pay her visit."

[Andrew Schmidt]

Andrew chuckled at this wife's comments about Max. It was mostly true as he liked to push the man. It probably steamed from his lack of action. Even in times of peace, he had always been able to find something or someone to fight, for or against. These days he was left alone to dig in the dirt or pet animals. It was nice yet boring. Over time, he felt his soul become split into two, domestic and adventurous. He pushed buttons as it allowed him to practice his use of language and to have a thrilling moment.

He wrapped his arms around her middle as his chin rested on her shoulder, "As you wish. Your wrath is not something I feel like testing at the moment. I shall keep my silver tongue to only be used on you."

He kissed the side of her neck as he pulled away from her slightly. The idea of being Mr. Mom was something new. He let it bounce around in his mind for a minute or two. It was something he might be able to make work. It was more the notion that she wanted to add to their little family.

His daydream came to an end as he took a half step from her, confused, "Teach the large man to be seductive? You might be putting me in an early grave. He tends to not take that advice too well. Believe me, I have tried." He shrugged as he smiled at her as his voice became husky, "Well there are a few things that I would like to hone with you."

There was a mental snap as he went from feeling frisky to shocked. He blinked a few times at what this could mean. Annabelle had never really looked for Shidare. There were rumors here and there, as far as he knew, nothing came of it. The cold, calculating Annabelle turned into someone who was full of life and love when she was around that woman. He always knew that the spy business weighed heavily on her. "I think a visit to this woman is needed. Let's not tell my sister just yet. She would brush it off as another dead end like the rest. Plus I would not mind getting off this planet for a day or two."