The Market Area

[Ekaterina]

The dark of night had befallen the lands; however the market area was still full of life and action. The snow and cold did not detour many of those who had to work for a living, and one of those was the local Hunter and Tracker, who was just leaving the butcher shop after dropping off today’s hunt and collecting the pelts of those she had delivered the day prior. The bundle was attached to the saddle of the massive warhorse she kept company with. She then took the reins in hand and turned about to follow the road that lead into the still bustling market area. After the sun went down, the darker dredges would come out to trade. Kat worried not about those who lived their lives much like she did, on the edge and below the radar of the law and those guards who enforced them. Her pace was no more than a mosey, no hurry was she at the present moment in time. Icy shards of blue which reflected the dance of torchlight or the blazing fires many created to keep warm would drift over the area and the wares that could be visualized.

As the time grew closer to her need to vanish, Jade felt it was only right to mention such to Ekaterina, her sister of Chaos. Strolling along the cobble stones of the shadier populated Markets came the infamous red leather duster coat shrouded femme of five foot eight inches. Hood drawn up, the bright, full moon light shadowing truly angelic visage from those eyeing her mainly due to the cherry red coloring of her coat. As if she were trying to hide... in such a color? If only they knew. It was buttoned from collarbone to knees, which were not adorned in heels... for once. They were held in 'Pirate boots', of a deep brown coloring and leather. Unknown what the rest of attire was. Tips of white and auburn peeked out from beneath cowl, while the woman moved toward the familiar Kat. Granted the Norse couldn't feel the spikes of energy, the flood of Celestial with the erratic flails of Void, it was there and a few noticed it with strange looks cast Jade's way. Following the horse, humming softly to her self as always. Hands resting within the comfortable confines of larger pockets on either side. Not speaking out to her sister, knowing the other would know she was there. The Celestial was pondering a few things from yesterday...

Kat held no special powers or gifts like so many, though she was quite proud of her six sense, which was natural due to her predatorial style of living. She heard the humming, and the light steps of someone behind, and she was in the market where many were moving about. But, the gentle breeze that passed would give the Celestial away, due to that scent of hers, one that was familiar to the Norse. "You know my sister, I know my arse is something to visualize, but wouldn't it be easier to converse if you were by my side?" Humor in that tone as she halted her steps to turn and gaze upon her sister in step behind. A smirk upon her lips and a slight quirk of a brow showed the amused state she was in. "Of course, it couldn't be some Barbarian who stands tall and with broad of shoulders to follow me!" Teasing lilt to continue as she grinned.

"Actually. I was looking at yer horses’ arse...Looks better." Sly smirk slowly perking at a single corner of pinkish lips with the retort. A tilt of cowl so keen sights could see Ekaterina from beneath the shadow better. Side stepping the slow gait of the familiar steed to come up to her sister's right side. Snorting a chuckle to the quip. "Well now, if there was.. I wouldn't be behind you. I would have taken him away before you noticed my presence." Snickered out with a tilt again from the hood towards the other. "I have a few things to update ya on, but I have sometime tonight. So tell me, how're ya doing?"


"Pfft!" Waving off the horse comment. "You're just jealous!" Chuckling softly. "Mmhmm, because usually I scare them right into your arms." Slow shake of her head and softly tsking. "I have a tendency to do that to most men. Scare them that is." Beaming grin. "Bunch of womens they are!" Once her sister was at her side, she'd begin that slow mosey of a walk again as they spoke. "Keeping active, using my skills to hunt game for trade and to assist either of the Crowns if they so need it. Better then lying around growing fat and lazy like most nobles tend to do this time of year ..." Pause and head tilted. "... Well, actually, anytime of year." She didn't advertise her title here, and none knew of her wealth and she liked to keep it that way. A Barbarian is how many viewed her, and surely there were some other colorful titles tagged to her name." How are things with you? Still in lust? Or is the news that you're getting hitched ... again?" Teasing look towards her sister.

"Jealous the horse has a better looking arse then me, yup." Sly smirk remained as always. With the remark about Kat scaring men into Jade's arms, hood tilted more toward her sister then. "Scare them, is something we both do I've noticed. Although neither of our... leftovers, so to speak, jump at the other." At least... jade didn't hope so! As she'd never touch what Kat diddled, or fancied. Small nods of the cowl to show she was listening to the Norse speak about her lifestyle here and how things have been. "Indeed. Nobles or women Nobles usually, aren't as highly trained as others whom have earned the title... then just given it at birth." The Celestial knew of a couple of titles her sister held, but much like herself? She was always opted to advertise such things. Why should she?! "I'm glad yer doing well. Ya usually do." Except with that marriage thing. Then an unseen dip of gaze at the last questions. "I'm not in lust with Saint.. I'm still pathetically in love with him, and haven't seen him for awhile... I just talk to Walker more. Whom I'm not in lust with. I doubt I'll get married again, but I wouldn't mind a steady relationship. Gregori kinda... vanished. I saw him a month ago. He was fine. Apologized, wants to try a relationship, but I refused." Uncaring shrug. "Things with me are hectic at the moment, because. Much like an animal, I go through a heat period, once a year, for an entire month. I go away to be by myself, so I don't produce millions of kids." Chuckled out. It was the truth! Unless married or mated, she went and hide solo... on an island far, far away and unknown to many. "It starts on the thirteenth, and ends on the fourteenth of February." Her birthday in fact, ironic? Indeed! "Anyways. Anything new coming about lately?"

"I was talking about the men!" Cheshire grin before she chuckled again. She never dabbled where her sister had been, an unspoken law between the two of them. But then her sister liked to bed strange men, wizards, and demons; not Kat's cup of tea. But in all the years they've known each other, never have they treaded on the other in anything and supportive they've always been. A snort of distaste with the mention of two names. "Walker and Gregori, you're better off masturbating than being with them." She didn't like either, she didn't know why, they never did her wrong. Perhaps it was more because of the plane in which they existed and she detested all of that and what existed within. "I wish Saint would just wake up and realize..." Glance over towards her sister. "…I could beat him into compliance if you wish." To this she chuckled, she knew she'd never get within ten feet of Saint to do him any harm, let alone be considered a threat. He held powers she still didn't fully understand, nor wished to. "Ah, that time of year again. I'm glad I don't have to deal with going into heat. Means I'd have to cut the nose off the dogs that came sniffing." Snicker with a bit of a snort to follow. "Well, you should stop by the Stumble Inn before you depart. Last time I was there, Alex wasn't doing to well. He brushed off my concern, but I could see it in his eyes, and the smell of death surrounds him." At this, for the first time in many years, a genuine look of sorrow formed upon her visage. Alex had replaced her father who was murdered so long ago and once more she was going to lose an important person in her life. "He's going to be hard to replace."

Barked a laugh when Kat mentioned about the Noble men. "Some of them are very... feminine." Nods beneath hood to that one! Then came her sister's opinion on Walker and Gregori... Snorting a chuckle about the masturbating bit... honestly, Jade figured they're all a write off! At least the fingers didn't die out with her high libido... nor did the means to get off alter, or abandon her. "I wouldn't be with Gregori. Though I'm unsure about Walker." An uncaring shrug about that, then Kat's remark about Saint, along with the back up had her sighing softly. "..Personally... I don't think he'd want to be with me. I figure he likes where he is, and ya know how I'm a loyal person... I'm the same in a relationship; I don't drift to others when I prefer to stick to just one." A slow shake of cranium when finishing. Seeming grateful for the topic change... Although a very sad one, Jade would prefer it over her own lil relationship life. "I'm sorry to hear of Alex my sister... I will be sure to stop by before such a trauma happens...” Right hand rose from the pocket to push back the weighted hood a bit to Kat could see those intensely observant eyes lingering in sympathy upon her. Empathy. Not pity... more so, knowing how that felt... And wishing to make things better. "I'd never call it replacing him. More so... helping, where Alex left off."

The smile which formed held no warmth to it, more forced, but Jade knew it was genuine in appearance. "I know he's lived a long good life. He reminds me of that all the time, especially when he befalls into one of his tales of when He was once a knight." Slow shake of her head. "I'll close the Inn down for awhile if such does happen ... unless..." A pause in her steps and she would turn to look at Jade. "...someone who had the capability and means to intervene and stop the inevitable from happening." She knew what she was asking, as she knew well of Jades capabilities to some degree, though not all. For the Norse to even suggest such a thing was not normal for her. She detested magic and the use of arcane, but this was her adoptive father. The only one besides Jade, who knew her, really knew her, and that she could confide in. The only ones who knew of her dreams and fears that none could ever get close enough to learn. Many years the trio had traveled about and many stories had they shared. Icy shards of blue fixed upon her sisters features, as she awaited acknowledgement or denial of her request.

Kumiho was standing on the edge of the market with a very large basket resting on the ground beside her. She was sitting on top of a very large barrel with her feet crossed, showing a relaxed demeanor at the moment. Wearing what was now her daily attire. A very well made and expensive green and red Kimono with white flowers on the shoulders. She also was wearing black tabi shoes to protect your feet. Beautiful silvery white hair was in a pair of tails with red and yellow flowers decorating the ends and right below each one of her extremely oversized fox ears. She was patiently waiting for a certain person to come by. They would Be in their best interest to find her. Looking up to the sky showing her nature of slightly being air headed, but not stupid...


Listening intently to the words about Alex... The old man she'd known for years! As many he she'd knowing Ekaterina... Dying. Such was life of course, but Jade was never fond of the happening when it came to came about to mortals. Or killable immortals. Where Ekaterina paused... Jade paused. Naturally regal poise Always remained, unless fatigued or extremely tired. Thinking... what would happen if Jade made Alex immortal? Killable, sure, most physical bodies were! Thoughtful 'hm' hummed out with the request from her sister. "..I can stop His aging process, or revert him and stop his aging from a select point... give him powers and be immortal.. It’s his choice really. And you know it. If Alex would like to stay alive to watch and protect you, then I'll help. Dying is Apart of life ya know, in order for one to proceed him, he must perish... Or so they think. Give me a day to think on it, ok?" Cowl turning back towards her sister. "Remember the days, and ask him if h wants to stay old and not age anymore, or we can make him a touch younger yet agile." Was curious

A moment of genuine consideration and she'd nod in agreement. "I'll go tomorrow and speak with him, let him know the offer is there, but the ultimate decision resides with him." She would never ask for something like that for herself, and her sister had hinted about doing it several times prior, that's how she came to think about it. It was bad enough living the life she did today; she had not want or will for it to extend further. So she'd understand and respect Alex's decision, but she had to ask and at least attempt to save his life; talk about doing something out of character. It was then she'd begin to move again, but she noticed Jade had turned away to head back the way she came. She knew her sister needed time to sort this out in her head, and then would find her when she came to a conclusion. When attention shifted, it was then she recognized Kumiho off in the distance. Grip upon the reins she'd now make way towards the Kit. Once several feet away her motion would come to a halt and she'd give the Kitsune a slight nod of her head. "Evening. Feeling better tonight?" Remembering she had to have the small female carted off to a room she had paid for at the White Raven Inn, along with the other feline persona because they had passed out from the drink she goaded them into consuming.

Kumiho was heavily distracted by what was going on at the moment all around her. She was still making sure that nobody came near that basket, unless they wanted to be cooked for dinner by an enraged fox spirit! A few moments later, Kat came into view and she smiled brightly. As both golden colored eyes lit up with excitement. "Much better, Kumiho followed up with a headache, but it was a very fun night spending time with you. Also Kumiho apologizes about the offering part of the deal. You serve Odin, there would not be fair to ask you to serve Inari. So... we can think of something else to trade for the pelts of the criminals. "Apparently she was very respectful to any gods. With her left hand, she motioned to the basket with five, not four extremely large pelts of Kitsune fur from the evil Kitsune serial killers!

Attention shifted to the basket indicated, the reins released as she moved closer to inspect the furs the Kitsune brought. "Da, I serve only my Gods and pay their homage. However, in respect to yours, I have found those who do favor Your God and have already paid them a handsome amount to see that daily gifts are delivered, provided by me, but in offering of themselves. So I also gave you more followers." Glance over in the Kit's direction as she offered this information. Attention then turned upon the pelts themselves as she removed a glove to lightly touch the fur and feel its textures. She was quite surprised and at the same time found the colorings to be most pleasing. "Though I fear That it's not enough by the looks of these furs."

They almost felt like they were heated and it was almost the same as Kumiho's ears and tails, apparently the Nogitsune for more animalistic thing she was, because of the amount of fur available. Listening very carefully to everything with a very happy smile. Apparently she received an equally wonderful gift in exchange for the deal. Surely she would have blocked for a while! Kumiho seemed to not care that it was her own species. After all they had misbehaved! She started talking again. "Well that was more than what Kumiho was expecting; hopefully these are of good quality. From related to business, Kumiho has a question for you, perhaps you have the knowledge Kumiho does not."

A nod offered as it seemed her part was considered a good bargain. She'd remove the furs from the basket, and then move to her horse where she began to secure them onto his back with the others. A glance over her shoulder towards Kumiho with the question that was poised. "I'm not sure how much help I'll be, or if I'll be able to answer. So as long as you hold no expectations in such, ask away." It would take several moments for her to ensure all was secure. Once her task was done, she'd turn to face the Kit, with a lean of her shoulder against the front shoulder of her horse; who was use to her using him as a leaning post.

A very polite nod was given to the lady showing that she was beginning to mature more into a human lady, but still retaining her childish trickster nature. "Kumiho's fiancé says that he likes to look at Kumiho's body, would be a very Nice thing to wear... in private?" She was rather blunt, wasn't she?

That caused a brow to rise as she stood there just looking at the young kit. The Kitsune may be blunt, but the Nordic woman was more so, never did she sugar coat anything and always spoke what was on her mind. At least people knew where she stood; there would never be a question about that. It was then she began to chuckle, not meaning to insult the young woman with her inquire. But for someone to come to the Norse about such matters, it was quite comical. Kat didn't harbor a romantic bone in her body; at least such was her claim. It took a moment before she could answer, and she couldn't help but to smirk slightly as she did. "When it comes to the male persuasion, the less you have on, the more they like it. I don't know much about your man, or what his tastes are. Some like their women in sultry leather, some in frilly nightclothes, and then there are those who would rather you stand before them looking the way you did on the day you were borne." Not much help, she was sure, but she could only answer in a way she knew. "Its not only what you wear, but how you act too. Some men like their women to act like tavern wenches, aggressive in nature. While others like their women to act all docile and coy." A slight shrug of her shoulders. "I'm not the best authority on men and their likes, I've only been with one man in my life time, we had been married and he's dead and gone now." Said in a nonchalant manner. The relationship she had with her husband was far from normal. She only married him because he blackmailed her into it, and left her no other alternative to the situation. One of the reasons she never shared who she was, and what she had in life.

Poor Kumiho was even more confused now than there was obviously pretending to understand perfectly well. Apparently she was not very familiar with the flesh and human desires. "Kumiho understands what to do now!" Poor fiancé was going To pay the price as usual! She slid off the barrel looking up at the Norse wagging her tails with appreciation. "You have been a great help and enjoy your furs! Kumiho must return home now to finish her studies. Peace be with you." Upon receiving a response, she zoomed away crossing a few people to trip and curse loudly.

The Norse stood there and watched as the Kitsune ran off, and once out of sight Kat would chuckle to herself again. "Poor thing, coming to me for advice?" She wished the best for the Kitsune who explored the world of men and women. The reins would be taken in hand once again and she'd continue her circuit about the market area, looking for any special deals.

[Carlotta]

Random Encounter ....

Ahh ... the night-life, there was really nothing like it. The days spent hob-knobbing with nobles could be quite wearing upon ones mind. At least with those who traversed during the night, they were either seeking last minute deals, or had dastardly plans upon their minds. Though wary of her surroundings, it was with an ease she walked along the stone paved paths through the various vendors. The night was cool, and a simple wrap about her shoulders kept her comfortable enough. Chestnut colored eyes took in her surroundings and the various items out on display as she walked by. Merchants were shouting out about their deals of a lifetime. Some would be drawn towards the bartering voices, she wasn't truly looking for anything special, just to get out for some fresh air; after spending the entirety of her day within the tavern overlooking business.


- The Valet with no master was working at the Stumble Inn for room and food temporary until he decided what to do next. For now he made a promise to Kat, a promise he meant to keep. He road into the markets on a wagon he had rented. Determined to load it with new linens and other goods. He probably stood out with the strange clothing it was cream colored, but covered in patterns of green from light to dark with some yellow and blue. Either stripes zigzag or flower type designs. His Dark hair was pulled back in a type of ponytail with his bangs combed in the center of his forehead, but the crown of his head was shaved and bare like a monk at a monastery. He looked over the varieties of venders and their goods. If there was any who had saw him that first night he appeared at Kat's inn Kat herself wouldn't have recognized the youth who first appeared looking like a dirty hermit who burrowed it's way out of a muddy clogged mole hole.


As were the ways of the docks, street urchins would come out at night to pillage and plunder those merchants that didn't pay attention. Though some stole bobbles and items, most were generally in search of food. It would be one small group that would upset the otherwise serene setting. The young girls’ fingers weren't nimble enough, and the merchant caught her trying to lift one of his daggers on display. He began by shouting and then running after the small waif, but soon had his path barred when two young boys darted out before him. Tripping him as he ran, it caused him to sprawl out onto the ground and the sound of laughter from bystanders did ring out. The three youths were darting between the milling patrons and those walking in their grand escape. When the girl went to dodge around one couple, the young girl nearly collided with the woman as she came to a sliding halt. Wide eyed the girl looked up at her, then a quick look over her shoulder. The girls’ stance became less guarded after seeing the merchant sprawled out on the ground.

A brow rose as she looked down at the girl. "You better take off whilst you can, he'll be back on his feet and madder than a wet hen." Came the soft tone of her voice in warning.

The dirty faced waif looked up at her and grinned, before taking off at a run to catch up with her coconspirators awaiting her in the alley.

She'd watch as they disappeared into an alley between two businesses, and with a slow shake of her head and a chuckle, attention turned back upon the small group gathering around the angered merchant.


- The Cart was stopped and he got off and looked around. He noticed a commotion going on with a gathered group. It was either a fight or other, wither way Mori was more interested in bedding, cleaning materials. A large clothes washing bucket caught his attention. He headed over to discuss a price with the seller. He paid the man and preceded on his way after taking the item to his wagon and moving on looking for anything he could use during his time at the stumble inn. Every so often he would glance at the crowd still gathered over the scenery, even tried to move around them so He could preceded further through the market.


Each hand grasped a corner of the shawl that draped her shoulders, and slowly she made her way over to those that gathered about the man. One fellow offered the merchant a hand to get back to his feet, only to have it slapped away with a grumble. A brow rose, and as was her nature she'd speak up. "That's no way to treat a helping hand."

The merchant glared up at her. "Keep t' yer own business lass, it be nonyas." In a near hissing tone.

This only had her to chuckle and look upon him in amusement. A soft tsk tsking sound. "Such a pleasant manner for one working with the public. If you speak to all your customers that way, you'll go broke... quick!"

He rose to his feet, dusting off his worn clothing. "Ye got a smart mouth, lass. Keep it up and I'll be shuttin it for ye."

The threat had a brow to rise, but her grin never faded. "Perhaps I shall see if your papers are in order to sell your wares here in the market?" Her head tilted slightly. "Be a shame to have to have you arrested for vagrancy, or worse yet, stealing from the City proper." Her tone was honey smooth as she spoke, it was evident the man had no clue to whom she was and a small part she played in the hierarchy here.

Something she said had him giving her a double take and grumbling under his breath as he turned and walked back to his stall.

His actions in the end were enough to let her know he was indeed selling illegally. She might just have him looked into, for the fun of it and in retaliation of his actions.

- He heard two voices within the crowd and would stop the cart and look in the direction of the male and female. He watched the two until the man returned to his stall with a light chuckle from the young man. He canted his head to the woman and went his way toward a stall of blankets; table cloths and curtains were being sold. - Hmm... "This looks good" -he said to himself and approached one of the displayed blankets reaching out to feel of the texture and thickness of it. He would do the same to the other. - “I’ll take thirty of these, and white table clothes and curtains too. - He continued- Can you point me out where I could find some cleaning utensils? I am working at a place called the Stumble Inn for now and I wish to make a good impression to the owner as well as things to keep it clean and proper."


About to step away is when she heard the comment made to one of the merchants. A glance over in the direction from which the comment came, to view the strangely dressed individual. A brow rose to view such a sight, and knowing he worked at the Stumble? A moment taken to view the items being purchased and she'd lightly chuckle. "Does the Norse know you're spending her hard earned coin on these items?" She knew the woman well, and had for many years. She also knew the Nordic woman’s taste for decor, and if that was the mans intent, the response to his actions could be interesting.


- He turned to look to the female, and shook his head. - "No this is from my own coinage. Just a few items incase a guest wants an extra blanket or a curtain or table cloth is dirty it will have a replacement while the other is being washed and Mended... I don't plan to stay there long... I am a Valet... I tend to stay until I find a master... Until then I can use the skills as one to try and serve the Lady and her inn. I am trying not to over do it though. But I did promise her she will have good work from me.


Now that did surprise her, Kat had a slave working for her? "Seeking a new master you say. Interesting." A tid bit of information to store away for a more useful time. "I wouldn't be saying that too loud around here. There are plenty of slavers that will see your wish come true, though perhaps not in the way you want it." A glance to the items he purchased and then back to him. "I'll give you some good advice then. Don't buy the table cloths, she'll only burn them, or use them for rags. She's not into frills, abhors them really." She's seen the Nordic woman pissed off a few times, and it wasn't a pretty sight.


“Valets are not slave... if anything there close to a Lord's page- He followed her eyes to the items he had planned to purchase and nodded.- " I see I shall not then.. What about the other items? I only met her two nights ago I haven't gotten a chance to figure what she would like or not."


"Use the word master around here, and you'll be labeled as a slave." Offering some advice. It was upon his askance that she'd look at the other items. "The Stumble only holds an elegance because of its prior owner. Kat tries to keep it to his memory, but she's not into frills. She's more of a rustic style woman; it’s why she uses furs instead of blankets upon the beds on floors." Looking to the man. "From what I remember, she always provided for herself with her hunting. I fear you may be wasting your coin in trying to impress her."


Hmm- he looks at the items. - I know I will have to aid in washing I'll keep the washing pot, but you may have the other items if you wish them- he smiled weakly- I've already paid for most of these things... It would be a waste not to use them. I should have learned her taste and routine before I did this... I should realize it's not going to be as it was when I was the attendance of lord...Lor...- He stopped himself as if trying to remember something. - Mm...- He looked to the woman and Nodded- Forgive me I don't know what happened to me where I once came from I can't recall my former employers name.


"I hear that a lot from the sailors that frequent my place. Hit on the head, forced into service and don't remember the how’s and whys." Light chuckle. A slow shake of her head. "Most kind of you, but I don't need charity. I'll save you this one time and repay your cost for the items." She wouldn't indenture herself to anyone, not even if it was genuinely meant as an act of kindness. "I'll give you a bit of advice about her. She'll snap like a dried twig in the forest when stepped upon, and her bite is worse than any dogs. If she’s agitated, keep your distance, and you'll know when she is."


“It sounds as if she is of a Viking or barbarian decent'- he commented on her description and took this all in as she spoke.-" I will remember this and do only as she asks and stay away when she is agitated. I might be lucky and find employment, but for now I will work at her inn until something occurs and I can't any more.


That had her grinning slightly. "You're in Nordic lands, there's a bounty of Vikings in this part, and their descendents. Barbarians, ruffians, and other sorts. Don't let the finery of the city illusion you into thinking it a civilized place." Hand to reach into the small purse attached to her wrist, and a glance up at him. "How much did you pay for all that?" Indicating the items upon his cart.


About enough to furnace part of a Inne... the amoutn of blankts i purchased was about seven gold each.


That made her blink and look at him. "You paid what?" Boy did that merchant see him coming. Hand retracted from her purse as it was closed. "You were swindled, I fear to inform you. Blankets normally sell for a mere silver, and that’s of high quality." Slow shake of her head. "Too rich for my place, or my purse to replace your loss. If I was you, I'd take them back to the merchant and demand a return of your coin."


- He nod- I wish I had known...- he looked around and whispered. - But all I have on me is several large bags of gold... I used my last silver when I first arrived at the stumble inn." I had to bother with the vender instead...it explaisn why he was so nice when I did so.


"There is such a thing as change. If you give them a larger coin for a product, they should give you the balance in return." Slowly nodding. "I'm sure he's ecstatic with your purchase and has your face mesmerized for future encounters." Looking at the way he was dressed, then around the market before attention returned to him. "And don't think for one moment he won't spread this information. There are some merchants who are on the level and honest to a degree, but most will take the shirt off your back just to give you one shoe."


I'll have to be more careful than normal.- he nods looking at her again and canted his head.- Now that I know my employer better now I don't think I'll be at the market much except for my own personal needs of survival..- A light chuckle-


"That is sound advice. Kat has provided for that place for years, and is one of those set in her ways. She does grow on you after time, and you learn to overlook her gruffness." Pulling the shawl more tightly about her shoulders.

- He nods- with my luck by the time that happens it will be time for me to move on if I have the fortune to be a valet again. - He nodded lightly-


"You might find employment in one of the house of nobles on the cliffs. I don't know too many to offer a name for you to seek out. But they're the only ones around here who can afford house or personal servants."


- He nod- I shall try and seek one out when I hear wind of one, but I did promise Miss Kat I would help I don’t want to promise something and turn around and tell her I wont be staying awhile and helping.


"Good idea, if you made her a promise. She's been known to cut the tongues from the heads of those who deceive her verbally." Said in a joking manner and with a grin, but there were volumes of truths to that.


- He nods- There was times my lord was the same... he was not one to talk to when agitated or annoyed...I remember how some would hide behind me sometimes the general because they knew we were on his good side.


Slowly shakes her head. "Kat is far from a social creature, but because of her businesses, she's forced to do so. She's more at home in the wild running with that pack of wolves she feeds behind the Inn." A shift in her stance from one foot to the other. "But, if she likes you, you couldn't ask for a better ally. If she doesn't like you, then be wary of the enemies you've gained."


“He smiled" In a way that helps I know then her favorite meal is something that involves game meat. Not only did I wash and tend to my lords clothes I also prepared his meal... this was a must for a valet... ebcause when it came to war the wife or female maid didn't journey with their husband.. So it was the valets duty to make sure their lords clothing and personal things maintained the same treatment at camp or where ever they travel... we were also a sheild for them... we were more the ones to die first before our lord.


Slowly shakes her head. "Pampered nobles...” Lowly mumbled along with something else that wasn't easily heard. "Those who go to war around here are not ones to be pampered like some noble woman." Head to turn as she glanced up at the cliffs. "Though there are some fat cats up there that can't even wipe their own arse." Looking back at him. "If that's the type of people you'd rather work for, then you basically are nothing more than a slave. I don't care if you use the title of servant or valet. When a man can't do for himself, he's useless as tits on a boar." And that was said without a blush, or giggle, for they were harsh words and meant.


Hmmnn...- He would look to the ground as if trying to remember something and he looked toward her and smiled weakly. I wish I could remember more of him but most people who wanted to be a soldier first had to live a few years as a valet... it's a tough job but when you reach fifteen sometimes sixteen you were ready to do so.. It may be a servant or slave live, but my master and I were very close. I wish I could remember or explain better, but if he were alive you would probably like him maybe Kat... some of the things you told me about her bring back memories of him.... The past though is no more... I don't wish to annoy you with it nor do I want to annoy you at all...


"Well if that isn't the biggest bunch of Blarney I've ever heard." In that moment her Irish heritage stepped into her words and added its accent. Slow side to side motion of her head. "To be a servant before a warrior? I have to give the man his due; he knew how to manipulate those who knew better not." Looking directly at him. "Waiting hand and foot on some fat arsed Lord, and I don't mean fat arse literally either, but ... all the same, that does not prepare anyone to be a soldier, warrior, knight, or any other military position. In their service, you're told what to do, when and how to do it. In battle ..." Again she'd slowly shake her head. ".. You may be told the direction in which to travel, and of course the name of thy enemy. But as for the rest, you have to deal with that on your own. For no matter what, once the orders are given, it ends there. When you face another man whose intent is to kill you and all around you, then you had better be able to think for yourself. If not, you might as well cut your own throat now ... " A pause as she looked at him "... because you're already dead before you take one step out onto the field."


"You are of the green culture' He spoke in reaction to her Irish heritage.-" I may not be able to make you understand... while one culture has it's beliefs and traditions another has a different belief and custom... But...- he was working hard on trying to remember.-. No... Bu... Naga was not anything like that... It was more... more then a master and page relationship. More then a slave and master relationship...a natural for us but possible a taboo for those not of our culture.


A puzzled look crossed her face as she listened. "There are as many taboos in this world, as there are sins. Bottom line is, if what you want is to be a warrior, you're looking in the wrong direction. Wanting to run off and tend to some fat cat is not the nature of a fighter in any way. Unless I misunderstood what you meant when you said to be a soldier you had to be in servitude to this man first." Lift of left brow in question.


Yes it was not all just tending to what he may need while traveling We did other stuff... infact we maintained an equal schedule for achery ,ridding, swordplay, we pratice karate, and so forth.. I am good with the long bow. But I doubt being a warlord’s valet is a zillion miles away from being one around anyone up there - he pointed to the cliffs. - Try to hit him with a log Lord Nobunaga would grin and turn it into a pile of splinters before it hit his temple the attacker would be wriggled with holes when his sword arm was tired. My memory is still badly jogged Miss and I must admit I can not win this argument except our traditions and ways are not like your own, but we are tough and learn to adapt... I am not a weak and feeble youth. My sword arm is fierce but my bow is fiercer. - He sighed- When I learn to know this new land I should be more easier to understand.


A gentle smile formed. "I wasn't trying to argue, only speaking about what I know, or how I understand something, until proven to be something other." Shawl to be pulled a bit more tightly about her. "All spoken by me this night has been nothing more than advice, take it or leave it at your will. You say you're new to these lands, but I'm not. They're harsh and the people even more so. There are those who will offer you a smile and handshake, while their other hand gripping a dagger will end your life before the handshake is over. And those aren't the worse of the lot." Slight shrug of shoulders. "I'm sure you'll do well in what ever you put your mind to."


- There was a smile in returned- I see, well your advise is welcome and appreciated Miss. - He nodded- he didn't want to anger or upset this one but it was indeed a culture difference here and He was grateful she was helping him with this advise she was giving. He notice she was tugging on that shawl and finally spoke. - Would the lady care for one of the blankets? You pull on that shawl so much if you are cold I will lend you a blanket... or if there's a tavern can go there and continue our conversation. I would like to meet more people if I can... maybe I might find another of my culture here...


A hand moved to wave off the offer. "I appreciate the gesture, but it's not necessary." Same hand would move again, this time to indicate with the point of index the tavern up the road. The sign extended from its front read The Bloody Bore. "That’s the tavern I own and run. I have a full staff there." It was then she slowly shook her head. "I'm afraid I have to decline this night. I was on my way home after a long day spent there, and I still have some distance to travel, as its in the valley." Again she'd offer a gentle smile. "Perhaps another time we could share a drink or a meal and talk?"


- he nods- I understand I should head back to the stumble inn I promised I would begin work soon as I could for miss Kat I don’t want her to wake and Not find me there doing what I promised for room and food..-he managed another smile. The best of luck to you and thank you for the advise.


"I wish you luck as well ..." She'd grin again. You’ll need it there." Stated in a joking manner. "I wish you a good night and safe travels." Slight forward tip of her head offered with the words.


“Thank you I shall survive Now that I know what to expect- he chuckled- and would get back on his cart and started back.-