Osiris and the Gypsy

[Nadja]

The night was damp with the clinging humidity of the day, giving the air a balmy heaviness to its cling. Light was the breeze that occasionally passed to offer a form of respite from the autumn night. This was felt by the tiny Rom whom rested upon the upper step of the Vardo. A small fire blazed a few yards from the lower step that which brewed near offered a sweet aroma to the surrounding area, and captured by the light breeze. The large Piebald grazed upon the grass several yards away from the small camp site. The moons pale light would grace the area surrounding when it peeked between the flowing clouds in the sky. The small figure of the woman, dressed in a chemise top of bright blue, the skirting that of reds, oranges, and yellows. Feet bare as they rested upon the plank of the next stair down. Resting back on flat of palms, head tipped upwards as the passing clouds were watched, and taking note of the occasional cluster of stars to show. Long was that thick mane of midnight silk, flowing freely behind to pool upon the surface of deck. A soft humming to greet any who neared, a tune that rose from memories depths to become the lullaby of sound. Firelight would enhance the delicate features of the young Gypsy. High cheekbones, the slender oval cut of her jaw. The oval shape of eyes that heritage offered, and natural olive glow of skin. Lashes as thick as the mane and long that framed those midnight colored eyes.


Osiris had volunteered to speak with the Gypsy and as evening approached he felt it was time to make good on his word. His attire was the typical dark leathers he utilized for purposes of stealth and the art of subtlety. A black cloak had been wrapped around his person and the hood lowered to conceal the majority of his facial features. There was a bit of scruff along his lower jaw and trailed toward his cheek. He had checked her usual spots as Ekaterina had pointed them out to ensure she would be by the lake. This had given him a direction of travel and Osiris began to make his short journey. Grass folding beneath his steps while the occasional limb as he took the least obstructive path. A sweet aroma began to captivate his olfactory sensory and this lead Osiris to believe he was on the right track. In the distance he noticed a small fire and the Vardo that wasn't much further from it. Then, his attention drifted toward the animal grazing. Where was she? She was gazing up toward the heavens with a soft hum to touch the shell of his ear. Osiris pulled his hood back and emerged from his cover. The Tsol Raa's pace casual and his focus dead set on the woman upon the steps. “Who is a man that defies destiny when destiny defies the man?" Melodious chords from the abyssal depths of the ancient warrior. His head canted slightly so that the fire could grace her with better light. “You knew we'd meet again, didn't you?" Soft was his smile and kind was the recognition he gave her. Both hands finding refuge within the darkness of his sleeves while he regarded her.


Stealth was indeed a skill few could perfect, but even those were unable to fool the natural order of things. Signs would be given, if one knew what to look for, or in this case, hear. As he moved, it would be the night that foretold of his passing. The silence that crept upon the breeze where once the song of crickets and frogs sang their melodic tune. Then upon closer approach, the Piebald would raise its head and ears shifted to the direction in which he was sensed. A soft whinny of warning given to the tiny Rom that sat near. Yet her eyes never left the heavens, and when he came close to the fire, the serenity of her smile would grace those voluptuous lips. "A man who is lost and yet to find himself." Response given to his first inquires. Slowly her head shifted in position as chin lowered and those abysmal depths of darkness now fixed upon him. "Da, Domnule, I knew this. Though this noapte it's not a meeting of chance as in the past. Tu come seeking answers to questions, nu?" Slowly the petite figure would rise to stand upon the Vardos steps; eyes remain fixed upon him as her hand motioned to one of the several logs set around the fire. "Sit, find comfort. I'll fix us some tea, and then we'll talk." Such grace in those movements as she descended the stairs, as if in dance was each step taken. Colorful material swirled about the slender column of legs as she moved to the fire and collected the two mugs sitting here. Either always prepared for company, or she knew he was to come. Each mug was then filled from a worn and battered kettle that rested off the fires side upon a flat stone. This task accomplished, honey would then be added to both, before she'd carry them over to where he chose to sit and offered it out to him. "Wintergreen and lavender, I hope tu like it." The sweet nature of her smile never diminished, and was easily reflected within those pools of darkness, as was the dance of the flames.


Radcliff had every good reason to be superstitious. “That very man has yet to give up hope in his own humanity." Osiris brought his eyes to reside within her own. “Doesn’t all your visitors?" There was amusement as he chose the log closest to her Vardo. She knew very well that he had no intentions of harming her. If so he'd have done it so long ago during their last encounter. “Your hospitality is greatly appreciated," he complimented as he became situated. Osiris looked upon her colorful material and how she gracefully shifted about. He could understand how his father had become entranced by his mother. Honey observed and he lifted his gloved hands to take the tea off of her hands. Wintergreen and lavender, she claimed. He showed no hesitation in lifting it to his mouth and consuming a small portion. He was with a blank face it went down and then he looked at her as if becoming a critic of such. “I find the flavors very crisp and refreshing." He brought his eyes down toward the liquid of the cup and his smile returned quite easily. “How much do you already know?" See, he knew better than to start from the beginning with a woman of her nature.


After he took his cup, she would move to settle upon the ground between him and the fire. Despite the humidity of the air, goose bumps had raised upon the surface of olive skin. She wasn't cold, but felt a chill that emitted from something other than what nature provided. Sitting Indian style upon the soft grass, her cup simply held between her hands as elbows perched upon thighs on either side. Midnight colored eyes would again fix upon him. "He has nu given up; however hope is waning as desires create new fears..." Head tilted slightly causing that raven mane to shift; tendrils slid across the prominence of cheek and there laid to rest. "Not fears as one who senses impending doom, but in one who senses something to be lost." Her voice as sweet as the honey that sweetened their tea, soft by nature, a purr of words due to heritages accent. When he tested the tea and gave his compliment, her smile broadened even more. "Next time I'll be sure to have rose and mint prepared." A touch of humor in her tone as her eyes maintained their fix upon his. It would be his last question that caused that smile to falter, although only slightly. "I know things are nu right, order is shifting out of balance. I can sense a darkness that hoovers close to the horizon, threatening to spread and suffocate all that exists in its path." Calmly stated prior to taking a sip of her own tea, though her eyes never left contact with his own. If he maintained the hold of her gaze, he might feel her attempt to probe deeper. A light caress of sensation to be felt as her mind reached out to seek answers from deeper within in. He could chose to let her delve, or shut her out by a glance away, or closing his mind.


Osiris was doing well to keep that frozen aura of his in check. Dark browns fixated with the black pearls of her own as she claimed her spot between him and the fire. As much as Osiris wanted to tell her she was wrong the immortal knew she was right. “Not so much something. Someone," he corrected with a considerate expression. Her symphony of chords as sweet as the tea he nursed. “If I drank rose and mint tea every day. I may not come to like it as much in the following years. Diversity is the key to a healthy palate. If I could make a request I'd much rather our company indulge in tonight's offering." His gaze not veering as he sat comfortably upon the log. Both hands around the warmth of the cup while both feet were planted flat. “Yes, and it is only a matter of time before the blanket of darkness becomes stained with the shades of innocent life. I cannot allow this to come to pass." Was it honor? Was it duty? Was it his conscience? It was a combination of such. As the sensation came to knock at his cognitive door Osiris opened the flood gates onto the situation. The battle between Salem and himself. The discussions and affections with Ekaterina. The introductions of Randell and Radcliff. The man's nightly studies and his prayers to an unmentionable deity. His desires of mortality and the risky game he played with a dracolich. Osiris wore the world on his shoulders and he had no intention of letting it fall as long as he felt he was capable of carrying it.


Her smile renewed with the comment about the tea. Listening further as she sipped hers and continued to delve into his conscience and deeper still. For a quite some time silence hung between them, it could almost be felt as it an entity was created by her probing. Though her back was to the fire, he would note at first a subtle change to those dark orbs. It started with just the hint of a flicker, and slowly, like kindling ignited, the flames began to grow within their midnight depths. Slowly it consumed the darkness of her gaze, as if tiny orbs of fire had taken their place. Just as quickly as it appeared, it would disappear and those abyssal depths returned to normal. A soft intake of breath as it caught in her chest and it was then she broke eye contact when she looked down to her mug. "In tu mind, tu think tu actions are a duty to which tu are sworn ... but tu heart belies the truth of tu actions..." Slowly those eyes would raise to gaze upon him, but not in the manner they had moments before. "Tu must quell tu battle within, or the one tu will face will be lost before it's started." Head tilted slightly to the left. "I am to be used as bait so tu can find what tu seek, and I find nu offense in this. But, if I am to aide in tu cause, tu must first be true tu al-tu self, as to why tu are doing this. The reasoning’s have changed as to the why. Accept this openly, or simply give up now."


The Tsol Raa wasn't too thrilled with giving the gypsy the insight he knew she needed. There was only one place that man's mind kept his most darkest of secrets and she was skipping right along beside them. Fortunately, she did not attempt to barge through any unwanted door. The flicker of heat within her eyes had been noted but he wouldn't inquire as to why. There was another lesson for him to learn and she was laying it out for him quite boldly. “You travel all your life searching for a place to call home. A vagabond with no true sense of staying still. Your will to move is similar to my bound to honor. Without reason my blade cannot find a home within the heart of thy enemy." She was right again, however. " What I have in question can only be answered with my own experiences. When the lives of others come into account I find myself questioning myself again. Is what I am pursuing worth the ultimate sacrifice of another... is it worth the potential sacrifice of her?" Yes, he knew Nadja knew exactly who he was talking about. " What I do know is that I've an old enemy and his intentions are impure. That is enough for me to raise my sword." But, what was the purpose? " Mortality is the purpose. I grow weary in this eternal struggle and I've grown tired of watching those that I've come to care for pass away. If I kill two birds with one stone then so be it." He eyed the Romanian woman for a while. " I be d**ned if I say this is for love." Somehow, he had a feeling that light spirited woman was going to call him out on it. Figured he would beat her to the punch.


She'd not even respond to his first comment, there was no need. "Meu dulciuri pierdut soul, tu esti orb by al tau wisdom, onoruri, si sense de indatorire." Came the soft purr of native tongue in that melodic tone of voice. "Tu only see what tu want, nu the truth of the matter." Cup would be slowly set aside and she'd shift from a sitting position to now rest upon bent knees, hands folded upon her lap. "There's much more that's transpired that tu of all people should nu be blinded to...” Again she'd pause, taking a slow intake of breath before continuing. "What was once frigid, distant, and uncaring has changed. A renewed purpose beyond and bigger than themselves...." Again those dark eyes would rise to meet with his. "Chaos is causing unity that once reigned not, but it also creates false hopes and visions of grandeur in others. Innocents and greed, a combination that provides a great power of its own. Something to be harnessed and fed from in the form of creating mortal fear." Again she'd pause to let her words sink in. "There will be loss and sorrow ... there will be a moment of darkness in which the greatest of fears will be faced. Dread, disheartenment, this will be the weapon to be wielded, and the hardest to overcome. Illusions so strong that even the most adept will find it impossible to see through the facade." Again he'd noticed the slow rising embers of flickering flames to return in the depths of midnight pools. "Fire and Ice .... The clash of Titans, the retching stench of death. That, which makes tu weak in tu mind, is tu greatest strength. Fire is all consuming; it leaves death and destruction within its wake. Ice, although as deadly as its opposition, is also the creation of life. For when it withers beneath the flames, it becomes something other; it creates renewed life and supports life already given."



Maybe he should have let Radcliff take on the challenge of inviting the Gypsy. The roll of her native language across her lingual muscle had him nodding. He understood her. “I know it's truth and if I allow myself to be consumed by what my heart wants. Then, those that I lead into this battle against the Barbarian King will find stratagem biased. I am where I am due to my sense of honor and duty." He didn't claim it made him the most happy of person because he was not in regards to what must be done. “It has been those very two qualities that've kept soldiers alive and inspired hope where there was none." Osiris was aware of his surroundings but by the way he looked back at her one could have thought they were the only two that existed. " I'm not afraid of change, Nadja. It is the price of which it comes that has burdened me with heavy shoulders." He gave time to devour her perspective and he considered them a great deal. “You know something I don't.” Osiris's eyes narrowed and he canted his head slightly to the right. The tea within his hand had frozen nearly solid and the mug was set to the side. Osiris stood to his feet and made his approach toward the wise gypsy woman. He took a similar kneel a foot away from her but never a second without his gaze locked to her own. Now, he was the one doing the in depth look but he wasn't reading her mind or scanning her surface thoughts. Oh no. Osiris was looking into the woman for who she was. “Apoi spune mi ce ma lipsesc. Va ajuta sa identificati un sentiment de claritate si arata mi unde am nevoie sa fie uitandu se." He offered her his hand. “If it is what I refuse to acknowledge. Then, why is when I do stare at it face to face I have such difficulty in admitting it? "


Dark eyes held his of honey hue, even as he rose and lowered to kneel before her. Head tilted slightly and her smile brightened more, causing the flickering of flames to dull within the depths of her eyes; not a reflection, but something that seemed to emanate from within. "Tu will lead, Domnule, and they will follow without question that much I can attest to." Softly stated. "The change is nu what fears tu, that I know. Tu fear if the change takes place, that something else will change also, and be lost to tu forever." It was then she reached out to take his hand, seemingly impervious to the chill that emitted from its flesh. Hers felt unnaturally warm, as if the very flames that were seen within her gaze were coursing through her veins. "But even that is nu what will be tu failure. Tu dragoste the dominisaora, there's nu hiding that. In fact, it's nu a secret tu keep." Gently she'd turn his hand over, the back of his resting atop the open palm of her left. Index of right would then begin to lightly trace over the surface of his palm, leaving tails of warmth upon frigid flesh. "It's what tu are now that is tu greatest of all strengths that which is tu be utilized before lost forever. Fire and ice... think of this meu Stapan. Each strong as an element of their own, but when met, which holds a power greater than the other?" Head tilted slightly; once more he'd notice the slight flicker of flames within the depths of her gaze. "It has left a part within tu, that which could be learned from and countered, because tu know and understand. Yet tu ignore its presence, place al-tu self in a lesser place. Why? ..." Here she'd pause as would her touch upon his palm. "Doubt!" A single answer to her question, one she'd offer for him in hopes he'd understand.

[Nadja]

A man of powerful influence. He had always been. She spoke of change and the flicker of her eyes had seized for the time being. While his mouth was closed his tongue pushed on the back of his teeth while his thoughts ran amok. “ ... " she was right once more. He was not blinded by the fact as much as he was trying to evade it. Nadja was showing him where he was weak and Osiris was trying to accept such facts. But, then Nadja basically opened fire with her supernatural touch and pointed out the obvious. “You’re going to be the death of me," he edged a light smirk. He wasn't admitting it but that smirk was all she needed. Maybe even shown her what sort of true happiness that resided in the dark warrior. He could feel the trails of her warmth and he followed her tracing with his eyes. As she continued sincerity had crept back along his visage. He put himself into a lesser place and she claimed it to be because of doubt. Osiris didn't look to Nadja at this point but rather down at his own hands after her heated tactility had stopped. Again, the gypsy had uncovered fragments of the Tsol Raa that he had purposely chosen not to acknowledge. It seemed that now was the time to step away from his insecurities and to embrace what had been so silent for so long. The inner war that had waged within him had stopped and his hand became much cooler than it had previously. Slowly, he lifted his gaze and she'd see not the depths of almond but rather glacial caps. “Dublu voinţă a voi a fi un weakness nu lung, prietenul meu." It was with his other hand that he had enclosed her hand within the pair of his own. He was confidence in this. “But, I still am not telling her." As amusement came to heat up his facade those light pools began to resume their darker nature. He released her hand and reclaimed his spot upon the log. His tea had thawed well enough to continue drinking it.


His accusation caused her to quietly chuckle for a moment, and then the flourish of that serene smile returned. Dark eyes would shift and gazes upon her hand as it was encased between his own, then the soft flow of words that made her smile grow even more as she looked up at him. "Tu already did, meu Stapan, before the words left tu lips." Head tilted slightly. "As she has in return. Tu ways are nu like others, nor the dominisoaras. Yet it gives strength." Spoken in a soft tone. Watching as he rose and reclaimed the log for his seat, she remained as she was. "Tell me, Domnule, why do tu think al-tu self weaker than the fire?" Head tilted slightly as she brought forth her question.


There was once upon a time where such antics were performed by him and most were in the position that he was in now. There was no reason to be hostile nor to raise a blade. It was all to help and to bring forth a clear mind. Now he knew what his own pupils felt when such times arose. “Our respect for one another travels deeper than the Nine Planes of Hell. I'd not think twice in slaying Hel to keep Ekaterina by my side." Strength. It seemed to go so much further than that. “One day, Nadja." It was all he said in regards to the statement. Her question had taken him a minute to find the right words. Meanwhile, he finished off his tea and set the empty mug at his side. “I don't." The Tsol Raa stood again and made his way beside her. “I respect the heat that radiates from the flame. It signifies to me that I can still it's warmth if I bare control over this icy spirit." Osiris began to stare within the inferno. " Sometimes," he said nearly breathless. “I become envious...” His head tilted to the side and with a sudden rush of wind the ground beneath him solidified in a glacial case. The flame went out instantly and even pieces of the wagon held evidence of being frostbitten. He closed his eyes. “Then, I am reminded just how frigid this existence of mine can be without the fire to keep me warm." He looked up to the stars. “What woman wants a man that she cannot touch? to kiss? to hold her in those precious moments?" He looked down to Nadja. " I do love her. I don't deserve her affections but I will not let this opportunity go where I cannot at least off her the comfort of
warm arms."


She'd just nod to his statement, and the promise made. Yes, she knew what those simple words meant. Slowly she rose to her feet, taking a few steps before turning to face towards him. Arms rose to cover each other in warmth as the frigid nature of the air was felt and formed upon the ground beneath bared feet. "Tu have little faith in the heart of a dominisaora, Domnule. Dragoste is not something tangible, it can nu be touched, tasted, nor does it have scent. If it's true, it's unconditional. Sacrifice is proof of just how strong it can be, and a sacrifice will be made." Head tilted slightly. "Envy is the bane of mistakes, as is self-righteous pride and false sense of duty. When the time comes, a choice will have to be made." Dark eyes fixed upon him. "Nu matter what is seen, nu matter what tu hear, tu must never waver in al-tu purpose and task. If tu do not complete it, all will be lost and tu will live with something worse than tu do now. Knowing another possesses what will never be al-tu's again." Her words held conviction, a vision perhaps? Foresight? No matter the source, it was cold hard facts and the brutal truth.


Little faith. “No, I have faith in her. It's faith in me." He turned his eyes toward the ground before swinging his form to face Nadja fully. " I've tasted immortality. I've dined at the table of Gods. I've drank the finest wine and I've even trampled over the impossibilities of time. But, I'd give it all up for her. Have you ever heard the heartbeat of someone you love slow to a pace you cannot bear? Knowing, that at any moment you could send the crashing into a world beneath this one? I force myself away so that I don't witness such so that I don't become so involved she becomes lifeless. I know all there is to know about sacrifices. I've done my fair share and all for what? Entities that spit down upon what I've loved the most and upon what I was born from? I'd rather die a mortal man in an effort of trying than I would spend my life with in’s arms reach of her." How was that for unconditional? " What will I have to be envy of when I can feel the heat of the flame again? I've made the choice already, Nadja." He was quite firm with his words. " I am not the only one in this, my gypsy friend. I will do my part and assist my brothers and sisters in arms where I can. When that time comes I'll make the right decision." He closed his eyes and he couldn't help but smile. “Have you ever outran a dragon?"


Brows would knit slightly as she watched him and listened as he spouts his words. She had touched a chord deep within him, the cause to that which was now witnessed and the very thing she warned him against. For a long moment she just stood there looking at him. "Are tu finished rambling now?" A simple question and it was even inquired with a smile. A few steps taken towards him as one arm lowered and her hand lifted. Index extended to first touch the area above his heart. "This and ..." Index then lifted to press against the center of his forehead. "...this, are nu in sync." Quietly stated. Head tilted slightly and what she did next would indeed surprise him, and perhaps generate rage? But it would be done none the less. A lift of her hand and with the use of palms base, she'd bump it against his forehead. "So fix it!" Stated in a way a mother would scorn a child. Her hand then lowered, but she'd not move from her close proximate to him. "Tu let renewed emotions over-ride tu thoughts, and tu thoughts to try and quell tu feelings to where tu are muddled ... like a leaf caught within the breeze." Arms would once more cross over her in that shelter of warmth. "This is nu about tu, nor the dominisaora, even if the actions to which tu make excuses for are based on such." It was then she turned and made her way to the fire and lowered beside it, to add new kindling in which to rebuild the fire he extinguished. "Everything has its weakness, and there are those that will use it to create an illusion to gain advantage. This can be done for either side, the dark or the light. It's all in who is able to see through the veil of deception."


She really just face-palmed him? The Tsol Raa's head didn't budge much be her point was across. Perhaps he had been better at hiding his intentions than the gypsy realized. This warranted a grin and a confirming nod. “I figured my mama would be happy I met a young lass" With this he started to smirk and then became more serious. “No, it's the purpose you asked for. Logically, I could not allow such to stand in my way. Duty had lead me this far. Honor is what has kept me alive. It will be by the sword that light shall shred the covers of the shadow and bring forth the sunshine the world deserves." He watched as she began to try and rekindle the flame. " You're right. It does. I already know what it is. But, you're gifts aren't what they used to be Nadja." What did he mean by that? She'd come to see she couldn't light a fire only because he kept the temperature far too cold. “Why do you let the ice overcome you?" He played her own words against her and Osiris wasn't relenting in such. Love may have altered his emotions. But, the legendary creature was still very capable of teaching and ensuring that what must be done would be done.


His mother comment caused her to softly chuckle and a slow shake of her head in that moment of amusement. Slowly her head turned and she'd gaze up at him over her shoulder. "Are they nu? ... hmm..." Quietly stated once she finished placing the small pieces of wood upon the cold coals. It was then she stood and slowly turned to face him. "I am not of the fire, nor of ice, I am the sacrifice of the two." Simply stated and with the gentle nature of her smile before she'd move to collect the box of matches that laid beside the Vardos' steps. Once in hand, she'd turn to face him. "Tu have what's necessary to face tu greatest challenge. Let not this honor and duty stay tu hand for what needs to be done, for nu other will be there to do it." Heading back to the fire, she'd lower to strike the match and work on restarting her fire. "Let not the Salem’s of tu past be the bane of tu future." In there lay a warning, if he recognized it.


Osiris passed a reassuring smile to her. “If you could not see I was in jest then you must be a blind seer." The way his smile curved was in gentleness and he watched as she placed the wood upon the coals. “You are the sacrifice and I am the balance, Nadja. Where I exhale you inhale." At this point he stepped to the side of the fire pit and began to lift his right arm. The temperature returned to normal outside of a two foot radius from him. A place on the log taken once more. “I am never without my preparations.” He said convincingly. “You do not charge an army wielding hayforks and butter knives." Such a thought to think about. He watched as she restarted the fire and Osiris extended his hands. “My pact with Salem is different. I hold no allegiances to the undead or the madness of man. Though, make no mistake a man is only as good as his word. Without it he is nothing." Upon feeling the faintest hint of heat he pulled his arms back into his sleeves. " However, if one searches hard enough he can always find a way such doctrines and established rites." He looked toward Nadja. " Your perception was wrong earlier, draga mea." Which one is that? " I'm the bait. Who better to steal from the horde of a dragon than a woman with more capable hands?" He smirked and watched the fire.


Once the fire began to show signs of life, she'd begin adding more fuel with the larger logs stacked by its side. Her task completed her hands brush against each other as she stood and turned to face towards him. Head tilted slightly as she watched him. "Mmhmm." A soft hum of sound. "We will see." It was then she'd offer him that serenity of smile. "Tu have torn veils away, even if that was nu the purpose of tu visit this noapte. Be it by meu perception or intuition to give light, or tu own realization due to a simple conversation, only tu know the truth to this." Moving to the large cauldron, she'd pick up a large stick that set off to the side and begin to stir the contents slowly. "I will be a part of al-tu journey, and provide what I have of meu gifts." It was then her eyes fixed upon the swirling contents and brows furrowed slightly. Slowly midnight pools rose to fix upon him. "He uses their blood, but death comes to them not. There's no pain felt, as their minds are nu their own." A distant look within those eyes before a blink would have them change and fix upon him. "Let the dominisaora know I come without protest." Continuing on as if nothing happened or was said, the conversation to continue before the vision interrupted.


The serenity of her smile was met with the confidence of his own. “Your perception gave me the wakeup call I needed, Nadja." He gave her credit for such. Then, she was shifting toward the large cauldron and he listened intently. “You’ve my gratitude, Nadja." But, something was changing. He could sense the disturbance upon her concentration. Silently, he observed until she locked eyes with him. “The art of blood sorcery is not lost on me but I cannot fathom its purpose at the moment. Hmm." She had stolen his attention from his thoughts and he nodded. “I’ll inform her." It was with this Osiris stood back to his feet. As he had approached before he came to stand beside her. “Multumesc pentru lectiile pe viata, mama." Osiris was more than likely older than she but the humor would not be lost. “I’m not so sure how fond the people are of you here, Nadja. But, amidst the darkness there will always be hope for the light. “He gave her a simple smile. It's nature soft and genuine before he turned away and began to make his way back toward the Black Widow's manor.


The stirring would halt as she watched him, again brows would furrow slightly in contemplative thought. Head tilted slightly. "It's not the dragon whom uses it." Another source? It was eating at the base of her mind, a familiarity she couldn't put her finger on. "It's meant to be used against it?" Unsure were her thoughts as she spoke them aloud, and puzzlement to be the expression worn upon features. His comment however would wash such a look from her face, and the smile would again come in full bloom as the sense of dread passed as quickly as it formed. "Hope comes in many shapes and colors, Domnule." Called out after him as he began to move away. She'd then set back to the task of tending to the fire and the cauldron settled upon it.

But, then a whisper would carry its way to just hear ear as if it's delivery held meaningful purpose. "... and it never stops clinging onto life”

[Nadja]

Osiris was once again on the hunt for the tiny Gypsy Rom. Before long the Norse giant was on his way and Osiris began to siphon the atmosphere to where Nadja had got to. It took several moments to pinpoint the little Romanian but he managed to do so. In a short amount of time Osiris had made his venture out into the depth of the forest. Outside the city limits of Kiel and near the lakeside. Nadja always seemed to know when he was coming and he doubted this time was any different. Osiris' hood was back upon his features concealing them from the rest of the world. No sense in giving them more to fear than what they already had on their plate. Black sockets spooled along the environment in search for the gypsy. Eventually, he came to stand next to her little campfire. Gloves of his hands were peeled off and placed within a large pocket of his cloak. Icy veins skittered along his flesh as he made the attempt to warm them. But, even now it didn't seem like the fire could conduct such simple comfort.

When he arrived, he'd find the camp was quiet and empty of her presence. The fire had just been recently fueled with several logs, so her presence had been recent. As his eyes searched over the area, it would be then he might spot what could be defined as a trail; of clothing. Each item rested upon the ground, several feet away from one another. The direction this trail lead to was the spans of the lake itself. Clearness of skies and the brilliance of the full moon, illuminated the area in a basking of its soft bluish glow. The lack reflected celestial being and gave the mirror like surface a light glow of its own, as temperature of water met the coolness of air. In the near shallows before the campsite could be seen a partial upper torso above the water’s surface. Bare shoulders above the cooling liquid, long raven hair drifting about her like the spans of raven wings. Her back was to the camp and the man that arrived, facing out towards the lakes center. Arms held above the water as if she was embracing someone before her, though no one was there.

Osiris knew she was around. The question was where? As he continued his casual scan the articles of clothing led toward the lake. Several assumptions could be made and given the latest activity he wasn't quite so sure himself which to believe. So, he followed it until he was brought to the lake itself. The Tsol Raa's steps were very quiet as he made his rounds. Now, Osiris knew where she was and he took measures to keep his eyes off of her. Though, he kept to her backside the majority of the time. But, upon closer examination he stopped to see just whom she had? Who was there? He'd ask her shortly. Osiris eased closer to the bank without sign of noise or indication of presence. Not until he bent at the knee to place his hand within the depths of the water. Quickly, it began to chill and specks of ice began to form along its surface. A slow, but gradual progression in her area. It'd stop before it got to her if she
chose to remain inside the arctic depths. At this point Osiris chose to rest his shoulder against a nearby tree. As he pressed particles of snow began to stick to the bark. Eyes closed softly but a subtle smirk resided upon his lips. " Surprise. "

The chill of his presence far preceded his physical, though as the temperature of the water plunged, he made the latter known. Arms to lower as she slowly turned to face towards where he stood. "You were supposed to have been here yesterday. You're late." Chastised in that soft purr of heavily accented tones. Slowly she'd make her way towards the embankment, hands moving before her to push away the tiny shards of ice that had formed. Form of silken flesh to raise from the cool depths of the water, glistening in reflective quality the light of moon and campfire. Making way back towards the fires' warmth she collect her articles of clothing as she moved. Draping each over an arm when collected. "I have made us some Marigold and apple tea. Would you be so kind as to fix us each a cup while I get dressed?" Picking up her skirt, the last item upon the ground, she'd rise and glance back at him a moment before turning to head into her Vardo.

Wasn't he so kind to announce his presence? " Old age does that to you. Tend to forget where you're supposed to be when destiny deems such. " Still, Osiris kept those shadowed eyes closed because it was not his place to look upon the glory of Nadja. Lustful? Sure. But, respect more than anything despite the normal rouse of the vagabonds. Ears twitched to indicate her direction of movement. He decided to take motion himself and eased in the region where she kept her tea makings. Quietly, he did as she requested without a hitch. Osiris made hers first and upon finishing he set the cup near the fire as to maintain its warmth. Naturally, holding it would have caused it to freeze much
like the lake. After he made his own he sat upon the opposing side of the flame as to not affect hers but keep enough heat that his own didn't glaciate. " I'll be another day late by the time you get dressed, " he amused while keeping his focus grounded.

Moments later she'd emerge, fully dressed in the warmth of skirted layers and heavy sweater of wool. Long hair pulled back into a single pony tail, and in her hand she grasped what looked to be a bundle of black satin material. "I didn't take that long." Amused by his comment, it reflected in her tone of voice. Feet were bear, despite the fact she had adorned warmer clothing for the night. Moving to the fire to collect her mug of tea. "Multumesc, Domnule." To the opposite side of the fire she moved, settling upon the ground before the log set there. The cloth package set upon the top of skirt, then both hands collected the mug. "How has sleep been finding you?" Quietly inquired, a glance over the fire at him with a smile upon her lips before it was hidden behind the rise of her mug to sip from.

The sound of her presence brought along with it his eyes. Though, she'd not be able to see them the way his hood was focused was evidence enough of where his attention had traveled. She was dressed for warmth but nothing to cover her feet. Osiris was curious but made no indication of such. " Esti binevenit, doamna. " He replied in her native tongue. Though, the darkness in his voice now more prevalent than before. The Tsol Raa remained seated and his concentration came to the soil again. The inquire about his sleep had him thinking. " Troubling, " he said in regards to his sleep. " As every evening passes this nightmares become worse. I fear beseeching the forsaken arts of time may have brought a darker sin than what we already face. " She had his full attention now. " Though, as of right now that is the least of my concerns. You already know what it is I will be asking. Do you have any information? " Calm, collected, but with a yearning to know.

Mug lowered and those abyssal depths would gaze directly upon him. "Patience is a virtue, do you know why?" Head tilted slightly and the serenity of her smile came into play. "Virtues are not easily kept, nor maintained. It takes a power of will." Mug again to rise as another sip would be taken. It was then set aside as her hands moved to collect the package that rested upon her lap. "Does she still wear it?" Focus was upon the slow, meticulous unwrapping of the item contained within satiny hold.

Had to go philosophical on him, didn't she? Osiris nodded in understanding. " While that is true I'm beginning to doubt my own strength. " He noticed the action she took with the mug and the package that resided upon her lap. " She does, " he commented with a hint of questioning in his low octaves. What was she revealing to him? Knowing, if he'd ask she'd slap him with the patience card all over again. See, he was listening but that didn't deter the ambition of wanting to know.

His response only gained him a slight nod of acknowledgement, while focus was upon the task at hand. Once the material was drawn away, a single black box now rested upon her hand. What looked to be metal of blood red coloration fashioned hinges and the small clasp that held it closed. "It contains the blood of a Phoenix ... " Stated softly as she slowly opened the box upon her lap. "... The stone is said to have been created when the blood of a red dragon mixed with that of a white." From within the box she'd withdraw a velveteen bag of midnight coloration. "It’s said, they whom touch the stone with bare of hand will become one with stone. Their blood become its and its theirs. Their life gives life unto it." Slowly her eyes then rose to look over the fire at him. "Fire and Ice." Quietly stated as her smile grew. The bag was then opened and into the box she'd empty its contents. It looked to be nothing more than a few bones, gem stones, and teeth of various sizes and shapes. "I know not what I'll be able to tell, if anything, but I will ask." Attention returned to the contents of the box, as her hands moved to collect it all within her hold. Hands to cup about the many pieces, her head bent forward slightly in a meditative state.

Osiris unknowingly had that look of a kid at Christmas. The anticipation building while he watched on. A red metal box revealed and he canted his head slightly while analyzing. It certainly wasn't any ordinary stone was it? Made from the crimson life of both the red and white dragon flight while containing the essence of the phoenix. He glanced to see if she was without cloth on her hands. He met her gaze and her smile grew. Several thoughts triggered when such elements were together in a compact shell such as the stone she held. But, then it started making sense. The gem around Ekaterina's neck. The bag she withdrew from the box had his attention for the moment. The oddities from within it had warranted a look of scrutiny. But, he did not question her antics. Magic worked in many ways. "Multumesc," Osiris gratefully responded. Though, he felt a strong pull and suddenly he began to sweat. His hood was pushed back and he began to close his eyes.

Such care had been taken in the keeping of the items held, which might give reasoning as to why her next actions might be viewed as an act of madness. Several moments she sat unmoving in form, and then silently her head rose and a distant glaze seemed to be within those dark eyes. Slowly she stood, the box she treated with gentle hands to slip from her lap and fall to the ground forgotten. Towards the fire she'd step, stopping so close that one could almost smell how its heat warmed clothing; like the scent of linen being ironed. Again she stood in silence, staring into the dance of flickering flames. When she moved again, it was to toss the elements in hands into the depths of glowing coals. There was no flash of light, nor booming sound, although they would discharge particles of sparks to rise with the smoke of wood upon hitting the hot coals. There she'd continue to stand, gazing into those fiery depths. Perhaps it was his presence that made the closeness of the fire so bearable. Or the fact that she stood there in what seemed a daze.

Madness? Not with Nadja! If only thoughts held such sarcasm. Osiris had seen much stranger things and he'd not knock the very woman attempting to help him out. The distant expression within her optics had caused a bit of concern. However, these were the preliminary signs of most seers. So, he chalked it up to that. At least for now. She moved closer toward the fire and Osiris paid closer attention. The aroma had taken him by surprise until he observed the items into the heat of the fire. The sparks then captivating his attention. She was still within her daze and Osiris maintained his visual security by checking the standard vitals. The storm of sweating had begun to ease on his part as he set his tea to the side. The near ancient being was growing tired. It was the immense force he contained bottled up inside that brought him to such a point. It was one of the costs of wielding such. Much rest was required to maintain dominance over it.

Remember her speaking of patience? This was one of those trying times. For near onto a half an hour, she stood just staring into those flickering flames; silent and unmoving. When she spoke, her voice sounded like one speaking from a dream state. It lacked emotion and volume, though could be easily heard. The distant look in her eyes continued as they were fixed upon the dance of flames. Within their depths was the brilliance of reflective glow, though it seemed to come from inwardly, rather than a product of that which provided warmth. "There is much water, a span larger than a lake." Head tilted slightly then. "Foliage, the likes to which I've never seen before. Vibrant in colors." Head tilted to yet the other direction. "A trail of sort, yet not heavily traveled. It seems to climb upwards in slope." Brows then furrowed, the first outward reaction to be shown. "Men eating flesh of men..." Slowly her eyes rose from the fire and gazed out into the darkness. "Cold stone and fallen timbers form a massive wall." Slow shake of her head, a hand lifted to rub at her eyes. For a moment it looked as if her knees were going to give out on holding up her weight as a step was quickly taken backwards. It was then she just lowered to sit upon the ground where she stood. She'd sit in silence for several moments before looking up at him. "You have the means to find her, use it!" It was then she'd turn and stretch to recollect her mug and draw it back to her. The tea had long since cooled, but she minded not as she simply needed to quell the parched feeling in her throat.

Osiris had all the time in the world. It was his partner in crime that he feared for. A consistent check on her life force maintained and another reason why he drew weary. Quietly, he remained still. But, the moment she started to spill forth some details she had harnessed his attention once more. Span of water larger than a lake... an Ocean. Which, made sense considering they were near the sea. Vibrant foliage.... a jungle or rainforest. Those were his initial thoughts. Watching as her head did the tilt motion. The mention of the trail had him looking further into the detail. However, while searching for harder facts she continued. Men eating men... Cannibals. Well, that sounded promising. Cold stone, timbers, and massive walls... stronghold, perhaps? It was tough to call. Osiris watched her still as she nearly crumbled to the ground but as he made the motion to move she was already sitting. The air around Osiris drew colder and his veins became more illuminated. Both eyes were practically nonexistent anymore. Just black, nearly hollow looking sockets. The last bit of energy he had was launched through a form of minds to link together. Who was the target? Radulfr. Every bit of what the gypsy said had been relayed to him word for word. Though, it was given the addition: Sound familiar? But, before the man could reply Osiris body had shut down. His shoulders slumped forward and his body had a lean to match. Was he sleeping? It'd look like such but he wasn't breathing either? Was he dead? Not quite. He had not fully matured into the bestowed power and he had strained himself to the point where his body became inanimate. A humanoid gargoyle in a way. Quiet, still, and rejuvenating.

She watched as his form slumped onto the ground, slowly sipping her tea. There was no rise of alarm, nor a flurry of worry over this. She understood the postictal state that came from over resourcing oneself. Instead, she'd finish her tea while strength slowly regained; though the weary state clung. Rising from her position on the ground, the box, bag and material would be collected and tossed into the fire; their use completed. Mug set aside, and even though he was an element of ice, so to speak, she'd still collect two large, heavy woolen blankets, and carry these out to be draped over the resting figure of Osiris. Leaning close to his ear, knowing inside he'd hear her words. "You both touched the gem." Whispered in that purr of voice before she'd slowly withdrawal. More logs to be added to the fire before she'd retire to the Vardos confines to seek her own rejuvenating rest.

[Nadja]

Autumn had finally reached its cusp, that point between summer and winter. The days still held warmth like those of summer nights, though the nights had begun to chill greatly. This created a heavy dew to cling to foliage, and fueled even more the banks of rolling fog. A common enough atmospheric condition, that took place along the banks and coastline of the bay to reach several hundred miles inland. Though the bay was several miles away, the massive lake was a perfect creator to this condition. The air was cool and crisp, giving it a cleaner scent than in days past. Due to the chill, a larger fire had been made, the steam plumes emitting from the cauldrons only thickened the dense condition of the air about the Vardo. It would be beside the fire the tiny Rom sat this evening, staring into the brilliance of the flames. Watching their near hypnotic dance, as the tongues of varied colored flames licked about the wood that gave it life. Thick bed of coals emitted the most heat that was spread out at its base. The heady scent of pine would fill the air this night, emitted from the bubbling cast iron pots resting at one side of the massive fire.

Osiris had been filtering in and out of the crevices and dark holes of Kiel. The Tsol Raa was consistently searching for more information about the islands and about the whereabouts of Ekaterina. During the evenings where his stone-stature had concreted him to the floor the man's spirit left his body to further search. Power. It was a gift and a curse. Its tendencies and nature could shape worlds and in the very same blink completely destroy them. Osiris had gone beyond his orders. He had transcended past the point of no return in preparation of the future. It's urging continually pulling him to where even his meditation couldn't prevent him from taking the dangerous steps into a universe of mystique and intrigue. He felt so grounded by limitations. So helpless wish so little and it was the straw that broke the camel's back sort to speak. If there was one person that could ease such it was Nadja. Clad in the traditional robes of an assassin with his crimson signature stitched upon the shoulder. No longer could he anticipate and estimate. He felt action needed to be taken and his patience had dwindled tremendously. Evidence in his hastens movement through the woods. The little Romanian soon found herself with a guest without natural warning. The man's back was all but pressed against her own and the chilling element of his aura present enough to wash a piercing feeling through the spine of another. He was without voice, without breath, and without sound. It was as if he had walked through the very cloak the shadow of the evening projected. Anticipating...

"Buna seara Domnule Osiris." Came the soft voice in greeting. It didn't take her long to know whom the chilling entity one. The only individual she knew that could make winter exists in the heat of summer. Not meaning it to be rude, but his touch was not something the fire could easily counter, so she'd slowly rise from that seated position. Back to now turn towards the fire to warm that which he touched. He being more ethereal than physical did save her from having to deal with a case of frostbite. Head tilted slightly as those dark eyes trained upon his back, brows to furrow slightly. "Tu have changed." It was sensed on quite a depth in levels. Unsure of this state, which seemed to have a chaotic edge attached to it.

The greeting from the gypsy had resulted in Osiris turning his head just slightly. A look over his shoulder as if his eyes could meet her. As she moved, he did not. “Seara, Dominisaora Nadja." A release of condensation as he spoke. The statement that he had changed caused him to turn on the heel of his foot. The dimming light from the fire casting specks of life onto his visage. Frost seemed to have overwhelmed him. The Tsol Raa's eyes were like pure crystal with a radiant energy beaming beneath. Frost-colored veins coursed through various spots of his facade. During the aforementioned spin she might have even noticed a pair of wings. Designed much like a moth's four-winged nature but without edge. More like strains of cold electricity glimmering as if revealed by the source of light before they went back into hiding. "Yes." he said in a near whisper. But, the weight of his words carried with every intention that she comprehended it.

It was now that things were slowly coming together in the tiny Roms mind. During his visits, when she envisioned fire and ice, she always assumed it was the Norse that represented the ice, and he the fire to melt it, but she was wrong. It was a meaning of a completely different type, and this was the defining moment of truth in acknowledging that. "Tu shall leave soon to find her, but in doing such, tu will be compromising al-tu self to the Dragon. Tu do realize this, da?" Quietly inquired as she continued to watch him.

Of course, Nadja already seem to know his intentions. Would he have been so foolish to think she didn't? He stepped forward with a light cant of his head to regard her better. “I’m aware, Nadja.” It was almost as if it was difficult for him to speak. “May whatever God it believes in give it mercy... " Such a declaration signed by his chords. "... For I will not if we meet. " Confident despite the look of his current condition. But, as anyone knows you never count out the underdog. " Given my state, however. I will need another to accompany me... " She'd realize just how deep he was searching her eyes by this time. " I'm sure you're aware I've a lack of trust in most of society. " As Osiris took a step his body began phase. Just as soon as the last thread dissipated the rest of him reemerged two to three steps away by the fire. A light distance maintained so that it didn't go out on account of him.

Brows furrowed slightly as her eyes maintained their fix upon his gaze. Slowly to shift as the figure of Osiris did, and then to turn and settle upon his new position. "I am nu a warrior, Osiris. Nor do I have the same abilities as tu. I can only foresee things on the occasion, communicate with those now past, and work with meu herbs. I know not of what benefit I will be." She knew why the Norse wanted her, it was the use of runes and such to help guide her way. However, her being taken changed that plan into being no longer valid.

As she went on her spew about not being a warrior she'd witness a true curve to the Tsol Raa's mouth. Was that a grin? It was. Hopefully, she did not think Osiris was blind to such facts. Step by step dug into the ground as he circled the fire. He drew closer to her again but there was a more tolerable temperature to his presence. " Do you see what I am becoming, Nadja? " The question relinquished with a peculiar softness. " I need neither one of strength nor testament of constitution. " He came to stand before her. " I need someone to keep me grounded... " Then, she'd all but feel his lips near her ear as he continued. " Someone to remind me of whom... I am. " Right after she'd hear another call upon the other side. " A familiar presence so that I don't abuse... this. " By that time she'd find his eyes fastened to her own. " You do that for me and I can promise you'll come to no harm. " Now, he awaited for her reply and response.


In her short life, she'd encountered many of beings. Those that made most people flee in fear and praying to their perspective God or Goddess. Never did she feel a sense of alarm, or fear when in their presence. Though it wasn't a deep fear, but there was something different, something she didn't understand. More a fear of the unknown and what could happen that wasn't being foreseen, would better describe the sense of unease she was having at the moment. Yet, it was his words that gave her a clear understanding of what her part would be, and how it was to be played. Staring back into those eyes that gave a real sensation of a chill to run through her. It took a moment before she would answer, then a slight nod of her head. "I can do that, Domnule. As for harm, none can give genuine assurance that it will nu come. This entire situation is full of risks, and I'm fully aware of what they can be, even for me."

She wasn't put in the most comfortable positions to be asked nor did Osiris seem to help the situation. He wasn't as much of a fan of the unexpected like she. However, he knew it was going to come regardless and acceptance was the best remedy to it. For him, at least. He had given her a rather vague idea of why he suggested her company. Osiris did not plan for just the pair of them to travel either. In fact, he had another in mind if not two. Randell and potentially Radulfr. Though, there was another part of him that was in debate if waiting was any sort of viable option at this rate. Every second that ticked had a chance of triggering something within. The Tsol Raa was well aware of what he had unleashed but not quite to the extent of its consequences. " You're right, Nadja. " He calmly stated. However, there was another figment of a smirk that began to arise. " However, I cannot help but gather you don't hold much faith in my word? " Two sides of the coin.

Now that confused her even more. "I have never doubted tu word, Domnule Osiris. However, what does tend to give me doubt at this moment, is the chaos I sense dwelling within tu. A sense of being unstable. That concerns me the most." One thing about the tiny Rom, she told it how she saw it, or felt it. "I know tu are in love with the Nordic woman, even if tu refuse to openly admit it to her directly." Yes, she knew he still hadn't told the woman yet. "I worry it is this emotion that may be a source to this chaotic aura tu emit." Head tilted slightly, though her eyes maintained their hold upon his. "And that tu will lose sight of what the basis of this was truly for." To remind him of who he was he said? How about the reasons so many were putting their lives on the line to begin with!

He knew the statement would draw out her concerns. She sensed chaos. He knew what she was feeling and so did the other element. Nadja continued to voice her concerns and Osiris's smirk began to falter. " Your suspicions are true." He could have told her otherwise and she'd have been none the wiser until he was gone. However, he didn't operate in such a manner. " The purpose is to apprehend the book. All I've done is tip the scales to our advantage as long as we make our time useful." At least he still maintained the reason why everyone was risking their lives. " its cost is more than I'm willing to admit at this point, however. The hourglass is ticking, Nadja." He seemed stern and rather determined. " Perhaps it may not have been I whose lost track of what is important, my friend." She had his attention fully and he was still enough to make someone wonder if he was alive or some kind of statue.

It flickers. There was a snap of twigs and the whisper of a cloak, almost deliberate, as if it were made by the passage of a man who cared little if he was heard. It shines. He came from the shadows surrounding the camp, his tread heavy, yet oddly muted - like stones wrapped in heavy wool. It burns. Illumination peeled back the layers of shadow to reveal a man cloaked in black, a cowl risen high over his features to obscure all but a single eye within the veil of a masking hood. What little else could be seen were the heavy, oddly shaped boots. They were smooth and black like onyx stone, yet the man seemed to have little trouble with his stride. Faint runes glowed faintly along their flanks, from knee to ankle, a hot and angry red. Then... came the heat. It wasn't a gradual thing, but a wall of sensation that broke over the pair like a wave, and the camp fires began to dance with renewed vigor, torches and candles reaching ever higher toward the star-lit heavens. "I have a message," the voice was like no human utterance, but that of crackling embers, or the constant whisper of an open flame. "...for the gypsy." And that single, baleful eye drifted from Osiris to the woman. She could almost sense a frown from the depths of the hood and cowl, yet all the stranger did was lift a hand from the holds of his cloak, holding out a scrolled missive. This limb, too, was wearing a gauntlet of the same, black material his boots were forged from, yet so elegantly carved and fashioned they seemed almost like real fingers.

"Tu once lead legions, Osiris ...." This she had picked up over the few times they met and their gazes locked. Trickles of his past would be noted, enough to give her a brief understanding of just who and what the man was on several levels. "It's time to do so again. Though, those who follow tu now are not nowhere near what tu had before. Tu will guide them in the same manner, for it's the way it has to be." It was then she felt an odd sensation, the whispered voices upon the winds began to increase and grow in their intensity. This had her pause from any further words being spoken, as those dark eyes would begin to search the darkness that surrounded them. It was then the heat would counter the nearness chill. It would seem her camp this night drew more than just the elemental of frost and ice. It was then the elemental form of fire would appear. Slowly she'd turn to face in its direction, where she had been facing Osiris when they spoke. Talk about a sense of chaos thickening the air before? It was almost chokingly so at this present moment in time. Dark eyes upon the cloaked figure that spoke. "What is this message?" Quietly inquired. She'd show no outward signs of fear, either because she didn't fear this newest arrival, or Osiris gave her a sense of safety. Could have been both to a degree. No matter, she stood and awaited the rune covered figure to respond.

There was no response except to offer the scrolled missive again, thrusting it out for her to take as he took a single step closer. It was like basking too close to a roaring hearth, that heat slapping the flesh without remorse, drying the air of all humidity. "I was not made to linger," came his whispered reply. "Nor answer questions. The letter will explain..."

Unsure if it was the intense heat that now ebbed into the area, or that strength could hold out no longer. Either way, the presence that was Osiris simply dissipated in the same manner he had arrived. It was the sudden lack of chill at her side that made her aware he was no longer there. A glance to confirm suspicions before attention was upon the figure emitting the heat before her. Slowly her hand extended to accept the scroll being offered. A moment longer to gaze upon the cloaked figure, before attention turned to the scroll in hand. Breaking the seal then opening it to read what was written upon it.

It was a simple message written in a flowing hand: I request your presence to discuss matters of grave importance to Ekaterina's cause. Please meet me at the Stumble Inn tomorrow evening. Cordially yours, Randell Daviun. When the gypsy glanced up, the messenger was gone. And with his disappearance, a vacuum of cold air rushed in to fill the void of warmth, made more acute by the brilliance that was the stranger's presence. Even the camp fires dwindled, and almost winked out - as if forlorn at the man's absence.

The letter was read, and it made brows furrow slightly. She knew not of this man, yet he wished a meeting with her. It would at least be held in an area to which she would feel comfortable and safe from harm. As it was with Osiris' departure, the same would be felt of the messengers’ disappearance. What was it with these epitomes of the elements always effecting her fires? It was a lot of hard work to maintain, and they toyed with them. Ice and fire, it seemed to be the main theme of what she continued to encounter. She had figured out that Osiris was the ice she kept envisioning. What she had yet to figure out was the fire, with so many elements of it to which she was being exposed, she couldn't pin point the most ominous that gave such a warning inside. Slowly she'd turn to face towards the fire, which struggled, but eventually regained its brilliance and slowly growing warmth. The missive tossed into the flickering flames. She'd watch as it slowly disappeared into a state of nothingness. It was time to seek out her trusty Piebald and begin her trek towards the Inn. She had a meeting to attend.