Quest - Ledger of Rituals Pt 2

[Ekaterina]

:: Subtly is an art. Too little and you can never get your point across, be that point on the end of a dagger or mingled in the words of a conversation. Too much and you leave every one looking at you for slitting a man’s throat in public. Thus, a balanced hand is required. Small beginnings lead to great ends, and this was one of those times. Like a shout causing an avalanche, a single and ever so simple spell caused a cascade of events to follow. The ever so slightest push sent an oil lantern down upon the wares table of a merchant close at hand, sending the blazing oils across his goods, much of which caught fire themselves. With the sudden flames eager to spread, most people turned to watch the flames and help put them out with water. Of course any one whose ever had an oil fire knows that doesn't work, but eventually the scene settled itself, rather quickly, though with a lot of fuss and shouting. It was enough to draw ones attention and then some, which was all he needed. A moment or two of laxed attention to hobble by and let loose a few drops of the colorless, odorless and most importantly, tasteless, poison into the mead. It even looked natural that he stood back. After all a cabbage farmer like himself was in no place to risk himself with fire. Not when he couldn't walk without aid from a gnarled stick.::


"Nadja?" She knew of whom he spoke about, especially since she had been requested to join their little group when they headed north. However, he was right, she might be able to see whom is responsible for seeing she obtained this particular piece. It was then she'd slowly nod in agreement. "She might be here tonight, we can try to find her. If not here, then at her campsite." Since they both knew where it was. "Maybe then we'll get some answers to our questions, or more questions added to those we already have." A slight chuckle and slow shake of her head to follow. It would be the commotion of the crowd that had her glance in that direction. Taking note of a flash of flames that a small group set to the task of putting out, though did cause them to spread slightly more in the midst of trying to be helpful. By time all was contained, two merchants had lost their wares on display and tables to place them upon. Attention returned to Osiris, not another thought given the situation. "It wouldn't surprise me to learn she didn't have a hand in this." Teasingly stated. Turning she'd snag back her tankard to lift and within two drinks would finish off its contents before handing the empty back to the vendor.


"Yes," he simply answered. The gypsy was a good source to start with considering her gifts and abilities. There was also her unique boldness that set her apart. "Chasing answers to more questions. We'd be lost without them." He only smirked until a flash of light managed to captivate his almond tints. The thought of assisting had crossed his mind but it seemed a small task force of merchants and commoners were already moving into position. Wares were being absorbed in the fiery mess. However, quick work seemed to have put it out before Osiris felt the need to intervene. It was then he acknowledged the cabbage farmer whom clung to a gnarled stick. Why had Osiris not noted him before? More questions without answers. It reminded him of the recently stated topic. What he missed was the man's actions involving the traceless toxin. Before Osiris had a chance to scout the fellow Ekaterina had his attention once more. "Me either," he said plainly as if he had something on his mind. She drank from the tankard and Osiris continued to look past her toward this new arrival. Something was off. He could feel it but no threat was sensed. Twice now the feeling washed over him and it put Osiris on edge. Yet, suspicions only laid within the mind. "Pardon," he spoke outward toward the man with the stick. "Did you see what caused the fire?" Truth, Osiris missed the start but a keen eye made him aware of possible assumptions. Trained eyes residing upon the being in question.

"Wazzat?" ::The man croaked out in a voice that was none to pleasant, bringing a well weathered hand to his cauliflower ear. He was a short and squat figure, couldn't have been more than five and a half foot tall, though his back was bent from age and toil. His skin was deeply tanned from work in the sun and he had the distinct smell of soil about him. Dull blue eyes held the mist of age and a face with more wrinkles and pits than a topographical map was marked by black and yellow sliver like teeth. He had about him a thin and whisper beard. His clothes made of little more than wool and burlap, his shoes the only bit of leather on him. He moved closer at a slow pace, making sure to use the cane for support.:: "What’s that m'boy? I'm a lil' hard of hearing. Age gets the best of all of us....you see what started that fire? I can't see twelve feet in front of me. Hah!" ::He let out a rasping single bark of laugh that one could almost expect dust to launch from.::


:: The man would come out of nowhere approaching the others from behind, curious at what was going on. A loud yawn would erupt from him while approaching. A long red staff was resting over one shoulder, while his other arm was within his blue yukata and sticking out of the opening lightly scratching at his throat.:: " Hmm what's going here? “ The tall and lean-built man sporting a bald head would speak looking at those who were there and toward the one they were starring out a brow would quickly raise in wonderment.:: " What's his problem?"


Any further response or question she may of had would fall mute upon her lips as focus would shift towards the man that stood nearly behind her, but off to the side. Icy blues openly regarded the man, taking in his haggard and aged appearance. If he wasn't so darn old, wrinkled, weathered and homely, he'd almost be cute. His response to Osiris' question had her lightly chuckling, until another approached and it would be upon him that icy blues now rested. "No problem, just a small fire at a merchants table is all." Explaining the situation. When she moved to look back at Osiris, brows knit slightly and she'd take in a slow deep breath. A hand rose to rest against her abdomen as she felt a churning begin within. Head tilted slightly and suddenly movement gave her a sense of sea sickness in comparison. Things began to waver vision wise, and nausea began to overcome her. Trying to focus in on his face as dizziness began to settle in and she'd begin to waver in her stance.

Ancient. Osiris took in the elderly's appearance and could only wonder if it was possible he was older than he. At least in physical age he was. M' boy. He couldn't remember the last time he was considered youthful. “I see," but then the distraction from the bald male had caught Osiris' attention and with a glance over his shoulder he put the voice to a face. Ekaterina had answered the inquire and as he began to look at her... his suspicions were coming to light. Hand to her stomach before the wavering started. Not exactly in the most favorable of positions. "Ekaterina?" he called to her checking on her physical status. "Are you alright?" He began to search for more physical signs of her illness but the only thing she had to make her sick was the... mead? The liquid was the only conclusion as he looked toward the vendor. Eyes narrowed lightly, "Try it." It wasn't a request. It was more of a demand to test the integrity of the liquid. He was standing near Kat ready to catch her if she went. But, he was also attempting to keep the older male, the newest arrival, and the vendor in his peripheral.

::Upon hearing the tone of the man’s voice in regards to the vendor, the old fellow started to back away slowly, clearly not wanting to be part of any violent altercations. He moved with a bit more speed than he had when hobbling towards the two of them, but he was still slow, eager to go off and be about his business. He certainly didn't look to be in any condition to fight. In fact the man looks so frail that a strong breeze would take him down. Walking away from them, he headed towards the gathering crowd around the burn table and then towards an ally.::


" Might of been caused by something the merchant was selling.. Possibly lost in the fire. If it was thrown at the merchants table it could be a rival merchant or someone wanting to liven things up.” :: He would watch the old man flee and turn his attention then to the woman who looked ill.:: " It would be a good Idea to get her somewhere away from the fire... could be the fumes that ill her” ::His arm would slide back into its sleeve and rest at his hip.:: " I suggest we worry about the little flame later and focus on the ill one at this time."


Succession of blinks as she tried to refocus upon Osiris, which did little to help with the vertigo experienced. If only she knew her own game had been played against her, and with equal precision as she had enacted many times before. Bravo! At the present, she wasn't privy to this tid bit of thought, as the sudden feeling of the illness upon her was the focus. As for the poor vendor, he just looked at Osiris with mouth agape. Not sure why the man was yelling at him, but he'd turn and snag a tankard to fill with mead. Looking back at the frigid immortal, the tankard was lifted and contents drained. He would stand looking at Osiris then, defiantly, as nothing happened. The merchant now held an indignant are as he set back to tending to his business. Kat would look at the newly arrived. "Who the hell are you?" The man approached and was going on about the fire and someone being ill. Focus then back upon Osiris, though focus was given up on. "I .... I...." A bit of a stumble back a step, to the side, then forward as she fought to maintain a steady stance. Tanned features would then begin to pale. "...I don't feel so good." Quickly stated before turned to stumble a few feet away. It was then she bent at the waist and all the mead she drank earlier, was now being donated to the ground below.

The old man was moving away a little quicker than he had approached. There wasn't any confirmed reason to put the blame on him nor the merchant. However, this game wasn't unfamiliar to him at all and he knew foul play had occurred. He'd deal with them later and the man beside them had been given a look. They were far enough for the fumes not to affect her so quickly. Osiris was already following the suggestion of the bald one. As Kat began to stumble Osiris assisted in maintaining her balance the best that he could. That was until she decided to show she had a breath weapon of her own and the victim was the ground. A sigh escaped him as he held her hair back and simply prayed it didn't get on his boots. She wasn't passing out so that was a good sign. He offered an apologetic expression toward the other male, "Cool water, please." A request made to the stranger.


" Just a wondering ronin monk whose been dubbed a mad man." :: He'd respond to the woman's question since she had answered his question he might as well answer hers. He then watched as she purged her booze on the ground.:: "Perhaps her drinking habits are catching up to her." :: he'd say and reach for a special container made from a dried out gourd . It was filled with drinking water which her offered to the other male for the woman.:: "It's not much but it will help her stomach and wash the taste from her mouth. I think for the remainder of the evening and possibly tomorrow morning she should stick with cool water, at least until tomorrow evening. Her stomach should be purged and empty and ready to be filled with its normal alcoholic beverages by then.."


::Well the old man buggered right off and into an ally. Passing by a particularly angry looking drunk. For a very brief moment, he feared the worst, and then the worst came to fruition. The drunk pulled a knife on him, eager to collect what little coin the old man could have on him. His brow furled in anger for a brief moment before the gnarled hickory cane lashed, striking the man’s wind pipe with enough force to crush it, felling him quickly. As the man dropped, the older fellow spat upon him, looking back over his shoulder to make sure no one had seen him do it or followed him into the ally. With the way clear, he tossed the cane onto a nearby roof. Muttering in the arcane, fingers and hands weaved the proper symbols his form quickly shrinking and warping to that of a hawk, at which point he took flight to perch on a nearby watch tower and gaze upon his work.::


It can be understandable how the man might think her situation was the overabundance of mead, anyone really. If it wasn't for the fact that just a moment prior she was sober and well. In fact, 2 tankards of mead don't have that kind of effect upon the Nordic woman who could, and has, drank many a men under the table; literally. Her senses were reeling along with the world that spun around her when eyes opened. Closed, only seemed to intensify the vertigo sensation. d**ned if she did, and d**ned if she didn't. However, the day had been spent in a dry state, so to speak. Tending to preparations for their travel, drinking was little that she did. With nothing left to offer, dry heaves would take its grip for a few moments more. Hands upon slightly bent knees, she'd remain in that hunched position as she took slow deep breaths. Trying to do mind over matter with the sense of nausea, if the world would just stop spinning before her eyes, she just might be able to do it. Slowly she began to move, rising from that bent position to full stance. A slight sheen now upon brow, features pale, though cheeks gave the appearance of a fevered state. In fact, that pendant resting against her chest had taken on a quickened pace, and the warmth of her body grew more so. Looking over to Osiris, lips parted to speak, but no words sounded. It was then she wavered slightly and footing became extremely unsteady with the sudden onslaught of weakness. It was all happening too fast, too many things at one time. It was as if she developed the worst case of the flu in a matter of seconds.

A mad man? Seemed they were common place around here. The symptoms coursing through Ekaterina had motivated Osiris to ponder upon the old man a bit more. The aroma of soil had stood out the most and it was almost as if it had been familiar. His hands kept her still while the other male fished out his dried out gourd of water. He couldn't allow his train of thought to waver from Kat, though. Naturally, Osiris radiated a cold aura and after Ekaterina's bout with the dry heaving he had taken a few drops of the water to place upon the tip of his finger. They became like ice nearly instantly and he slid them across her forehead to ease the heat and to cleanse some of the perspiration that had taken her by storm. He felt more a more drastic measure needed to be taken but it came at a price. "Either of you speak of this to another... you'll be slain before the final word escapes your lips." It wasn't a threat. Rather a promise. Directed toward the bald male and the disobedient merchant. "Vox diu, vox noctu, tribuo suus quies." Hazel optics became a solid white. Pearls couldn't compare to the radiance emerging from the sockets. Soft gleams of light began to emit from his hands as they came to rest upon her upper chest and along the spine of her back for stability. Phantasmal, four-moth like wings shimmered with a golden sheen as Osiris became her support beam. White veins ran the length of his facade and his flesh darkened immensely. Forehead placed against hers with his mouth opened just faintly. The tiniest of moth-like creatures invaded her and sought out the ailments and illnesses that plagued her. They began to repair and restore the damage and upon finishing they returned to their master the same way they had left him. Slowly, the more human side of him began to resume and he sat down with the gourd nearby him. A single thought stretched out toward a particular being and it knew exactly what it was when Osiris casted his thought: I'm onto you, Dead One. He closed his eyes and allowed the intense chills to course through his spine.

.
:: He looked over his shoulder for a moment as if he sensed something, for the moment he would ignore it and looked toward the other male and then the female. And speak:: "It would be a good idea to get the woman out of this area...” :: he then heard the man and would watch as he began his work on helping his friend. a thick brow would arch and lower followed by a shrug of his shoulders:: “Feh seen something similar it's not new to me so I promise you I won’t utter a word at all not really my thing to go around and gossip any way.” :: He stood there still and watched as he sat down with his gourd near, and looked to the woman now.:: “Well least she'll be alright.” :: He then looked over his shoulder again where the old man and fled.:: “hmnn…”

::He'd get a cold and invading thought of his own in return, one that was clearly filled with mirth in causing pain.:: "Your inability to protect your friends amuses me. Count yourself lucky I had not used a more potent venom or acid. Fair well." ::The Hawk that watched them from the guard tower hopped down off the railing and onto the opposite before taking flight, low over the ground as to not be spotted in the sky, at least not for several hundred yards, heading off towards the North.::


Continued .....

[Ekaterina]

Moth wings, glimmering of gold, moths flying into her? If LSD was a drug of choice for the Norse, she would have contributed that to a flashback or bad trip; however she wasn't! However, explaining it off as a delusional hallucination due to the circumstances of the sudden illness would be acceptable to that mind that was grasping to make sense of the smaller things. As it often happens when the fragile physique of a human was caught in the crossfire of Titans, their actions would take its toll in the same amount of time it caused the poison to spread through her bloodstream like a plague. A mask of confusion set upon the youthful features of the Norse. Well, to ill, to well all within the matter of half an hour in time, was more than her body could actually handle. The pendant began to pulse quicker, and its glow would intensify slightly; it never actually glowed to the point it would be considered shining. Just a gentle pulsation of crimson light within the swirling mass of the translucent stone. Crystalline blues would follow to where Osiris moved and sat whilst she still stood where he left her. Eyes then rolled upwards and her form went limp to where she collapsed upon the ground with a hard thud. The human body wasn't built for such stress of ups and downs, not in a short period of time, before it would be overcome. And people wonder why Kat detested the arcane!

Quietly, Osiris continued to suffer while outwardly it seemed like he had gone into another meditative state. The taunting from undead dragon had irritated the Tsol Raa. They would meet again. There was no doubt about that. The sounds around him had taken hold of his senses and he could feel the creeping of the toxin swim within his blood. This was going to take time to cleanse. The pulsing of the stone had happened without Osiris knowing on account of closed eyes. The sudden thud had a deep breath being pulled in and he opened his eyes to see Ekaterina laying upon the ground. He checked on the stone as if a visible indication to her life-force. "There is an Inne just outside of town. It is called The Stumble. Please, take her there." Once more, he requested help from the ronin monk who was noted as a mad man. He grew quiet a moment more to ease the agony rushing through his stomach and the pounding going on within his head. "Radulfr, can help her from there." Extension of an inhale and he resumed his trance.

You not coming or are you planning to hunt the geezer?:: he asked and headed over toward the woman who had collapsed and picked her up. The monk carefully maneuvered her body until she was hanging over a shoulder.::" I'll do as you ask if you'll do me a favor too.:: and that was when he tossed him the old staff he carried.:: hold on to that I can't carry and secure both.":: a chuckled and he shifted some so he had a good grip on the unconscious female::" The Stumble Inne you said.. I'll be sure to take her there.."


Tossed like a sack of potatoes over the strange monks shoulder. Good think she was out cold, or she might have had something to say about that. The Inne rested five miles to the north west of Kiel, along the main road that lead from the inlands to the Port City. If the Monk was on foot, he better have a strong back. She was only a mere one hundred and twenty five pounds, but even twenty gets heavy to be carried after a while.


The question had Osiris giving it a short thought. " I'll be right behind you. " It took effort but Osiris could handle it. He had opened his eyes just before the staff came soaring his way. A lift of the hand caught it and the Tsol Raa maneuvered to his feet. The gourd was also picked up and he nodded in confirmation about the name of the Inne. It was a bit of a hike but he figured the monk had a strong back. They did through discipline or so Osiris was lead to believe. " At least she took off the gown... " Finding small amusement to the scenario that played out in his head.


" Good":: he began to exorcise his legs by lifting and lowering them, like a jogger would before a great run race.::" Let's go!":: and the Monk took off. Indeed his body had gone through many things, possibly worse than a natural monk. Too few maybe this woman would of been heavy , but for him well.. It was like he had a rag doll over his shoulder the pace he was running was incredible. Possibly the woman head was bobbling back and froth lifelessly due to being unconscious. He leap into the air on occasion picking up even more speed while in the air and landing down ready to run some more. Every now and then he would laugh or chuckle it was hard to tell which was more annoying the chuckle or the laughter like a mad man. He would flip her over onto his other shoulder and shifted her some since her face was no longer facing the ground by the sky now and bobbling like a rag doll.::


Flipped, flopped, and bounced around, did the man forget her previous state? Must have! As he continued to play his dance of leaping lord, he'd end up paying the ultimate price. Before he shifted her to where she was in a backbend over his shoulder, bodily functions would set into action. The motion and bouncing would cause her to begin to vomit yet again. Though this time it would be mostly bile and mucus, but it would be dripping down his back and splatter all over his legs. Now in a backbend and his leaping about, he was causing pressure against her spine as she was placed in a position that was unnatural for someone to be carried. The Monk better pray the Norse don't awaken whilst this is going on. Oden and Osiris both know what the consequences of that would be.


The monk was in a hurry and Osiris could only watch as Ekaterina's head did the bobble head doll motion. She was going to kill the pair of them. When the monk took to the air Osiris closed his eyes. Just no way that was going to end well. Osiris kept pace by a series of short blinks and tree walking. A mystical art that allowed him to move tree by tree through the essence of the bark like an assassin through the shadows. Upon checking on her status she was unleashing more throaty goodness and finally decided to speak up when he had turned her. "Perhaps you should handle your staff and gourd. I'll tend to the lady." Patience, he had an abundance of. But, Osiris wasn't going to wait until Ekaterina's intestines were on the ground from puking to handle the situation.

hmmmnn:: he felt something wet but just shrugged and flipped her again back on his other shoulder holding her regularly now.:: oh well I’ve had worse:: he said as if he didn't really care if he got stomach fluids splattered on him. He heard the man and began to try and slow his pace slowing slightly and finally halting.:: Hmmnn? You want to carry her?" Alright Mind you though she still hasn't fully purged her stomach"::: he would offer the woman for trade to carry his gourd and staff again. Soon as the trade was made he began his pursuit to the Inn.::


At least when she was handed over to Osiris, the situation of resembling a guiser at Yellowstone Park had ended. It had weakened her more and the bouncing of her head did little to help in that state. Rag doll indeed, her body limp as one at the present. The Monk had better pray to whatever Gods or Demons he worshiped, that the Nordic woman didn't learn of his treatment. Nothing compares to the harrowing experience of a woman’s scorn in return; especially hers. Maybe Osiris better forewarn the man of that deadly temper of hers. However, the Monk's actions had put some distance behind them and they were almost half way to the destination.


A dip of his head had indicated he had wished to carry her instead of the staff and gourd. Upon the exchange Osiris had taken a short time to clean any residue that may have remained upon the outer edge of her mouth or upon any of the splatter effect. Considerate, at least. He'd softly pick her up in the form of a cradle and murmur for the element of the wind to assist in his carry. The expulsion of magical credentials was going to come at a heavy cost but he would endure whatever storm came to pass. The Tsol Raa's steps were light even with her additional weight and he kept a sharp eye on the monk. "She can be a handful at times. Anger, not to be trifled with. The ease of comfort of which she sleeps will deter thoughts of potential dismembering." Was he kidding? How could anyone tell with the stoic expression sliding across his own visage. He had wanted to safe his energy to warn Radulfr but that wasn't going to happen.


" Really he said and then leapt into the air gaining more speed and then landed onto the ground to run some more and continued::" I figured she looks like it. That and a lover of strong beverage .. That I picked up from her smell. :: he chuckled and continued running leaping into the air on occasions to pick up speed.:: I think were almost ...there"


Dismembering, what a polite way of saying she'd rip his balls off, stuff them into his mouth and then down his throat? Yeah, Osiris was the kind one of the two! Resting a bit more peacefully in Osiris' careful hold. Soon enough they'd reach the quaint Inne in the midst of the dense forest. Surly the Monk would be prancing through the front door like Tigger after eating a ton of sugar, and that would put Radulfr immediately on guard and focused on the door.


If he was going to make a move against the Monk, his actions would be halted when Osiris stepped through. More due to whom he carried in looking more like a cadaver with that pale complexion and limp state. "What happened?" It was more a command of knowledge then a question when he quickly moved to assist Osiris. He would be able to tell the immortal was taxed, he'd seen enough of him around the Inn before they moved to the manor on the cliffs. They're being back at the Stumble would mean something went wrong, and that was never good.


Osiris was always nice... sort of... well, in comparison. The acknowledgment from the monk had caused Osiris to nod lightly to confirm his suspicion. A hand lifted a hand to halt Radulfr's offense before it began. The inquire had caused him to stop briefly in his approach toward the stairs. " We'll talk soon. " An ease to the mind of the barkeep for he knew Osiris would relinquish the information when the time was right and their company limited. A turn to the monk, " I believe this is where we part ways. My gratitude in your assistance; however, our rooms are full. The Bloody Bore may have more options. " A knowing glance to Radulfr before he continued his trek up to his room.

:: He would indeed and looked at the man with a raised brow and then to the other Male who came in with the woman, while he took care of her he headed toward the nearest table and plopped down on it legs moving to prop up on the top and blinked when the man said that it was time to part.:: ah I see, well I'll be around the area I guess should we bump into one another again I'll offer my services to help.:: He yawned...:: mnnn.. I guess I better leave then.. Unless there are objections of resting at a table before starting another run.:: he'd say and soon get up and stretched, the floor looks better I am not use to beds and such anyway... I'll find something and meet up with you two
again.."


Radulfr would gaze upon Osiris with narrowed and accusing eyes for a moment. The mountain of a man would nod in acceptance to his comment. "Real soon!" Another glance towards the young woman he had come to view as like a daughter than a friend or employer. "I'll bring up more wood and then lock up." A nod of understanding before he'd look towards the Monk, make a noise that sounded like a grunt. He knew well where Kat would be residing tonight, and he'd make sure there was a source of warmth.

Although the pendant seemed to have fallen asleep when she did, the pulsating action had dulled and the swirl slowed considerably. Yet, it continued to provide that cloak of warmth about her. Not as hot as she was when the fever hit, but as if she was resting beneath a blankets cover. As for her destination? She went where Osiris did, she was being carried in his arms.


Osiris could understand why Radulfr seemed tense. So, such acknowledgements weren't taken as hostility as he carried Ekaterina up to his former living quarters. The door was opened with careful manipulation of the arm and then nudged to pass through with his foot. A soft whisper had caused the blankets on the bed to shift and Osiris laid her down gently. The head of the lioness coming to rest upon the pillow. What little bit of wood that had been left was ignited by a flick of his wrist. Surely, he figured Radulfr wouldn't spend all night outside with Kat in the condition she was in. Both hands eased her hair back to further investigate if the monk's actions or her fall had caused any more damage. Afterwards, he'd move his attentions lower searching for any additional injuries of the physical caliber. His own body ached and rippled but adrenaline and Ekaterina's safety was his driving force. The back of his wrist was used after removing the vambrace to check for an signs of a fever. She felt warm but nowhere near the heated temperature of earlier. Now, as long as the monk didn't cause her brain damage he thought they'd be in the clear. Having her sleep wasn't wise after she passed out and made her fall. Consciousness was another large concern.

Her back had been taking quite a beating as of late. First the man turned beast, then the day something took over Osiris, the fall at the market and the brutal way she was carried part way to the Inne. It's amazing she could walk at all!

It wouldn't take long and Radulfr was knocking at the door, announcing whom it was. He wouldn't await for permission to enter, since he already stated he'd be doing so. Quite the armload of wood he carried in, and also laden were the arms of Lilly who followed in behind him. Between the two, enough to fill the hearth and have plenty to make it through the night. The two would look over to where the Norse laid upon the bed. Radulfr would then just glance at Osiris, his eyes said more than words ever would. Anything happened to the Norse, someone would pay! It was then the two would silently slip out and set to the task of locking the Inne up tight for the night. Nothing would get out, but nothing would get in either; not that walked through doors anyways.

In her mind there was still a battle taking place. On one side, she wanted to wake up and find that all was just a horrible dream. She was use to nightmares and had learned to adapt and live with them and affected her no more than a casual dream would. Then there was the other side that wanted to remain in the darkness. There was no pain there, no fear, and no worry.


There was something to be said about that look Radulfr gave Osiris. Even now, the Tsol Raa remained quiet while they ventured back out to lock up. Thoughts ran amok and emotions were beginning to set in. How he disliked seeing her in such a state. He felt he was to blame for missing the obvious. The old man was the dracolich. Can't even protect your friends. What anguish rolled through him recalling the words. Vindication was in order, so he felt. The undead dragon had played upon the pact too long and honor wasn't the name of the game anymore. Another soft sweep of his hand along her head and through her strands of hair before adding a gentle kiss. He sought out to find Radulfr. The door left cracked so his accelerated sense of acute hearing could remain attuned to her breathing patterns. "She was poisoned at the market, Radulfr. Durnehviir struck in the guise of an old man. As for the toxin I've tended to it but her body is physically weakened by all the trauma. It might help to have Lilly clean her up and get her come clean clothes." A hand came over his face as he made a peek up stairs to check on the Norse's status.

When Osiris sought him out, he'd turn and listen to the words the man had to say. Did it sooth his ruffled feathers? Not in the least, and the look on his face showed it. "Poisoned? Trauma?" The old warrior had to take a deep breath to maintain his calm. It was then a gnarled finger rose and pointed at him in an accusing manner. "You are the cause of all this!" Rad wasn't a man of many words, usually grunts and snorts to be his response to those he had to serve. Now he was in a position to which he had something to say and would. He'd point overhead to indicate the woman he spoke of. "Until you came along, she lived a simple life. Yes, she still went on her hunts ..." Osiris would know to what he referred. "But that's been a large part of her life. Then you come along and start spouting out promises you doesn’t even know if you can keep." Hand lowered and the man daringly glowered at the immortal. "The only reason she's doing this, is because of you, for you! She has some wild idea that all of this is going to give her something she's always wanted and could never have. All I have to say is, if anything happens to her like this again, or worse, I'll be holding you personally responsible. I don't care by whose hand it be, you're the initial cause!" A moment longer he'd look at him, then turned to bellow towards the kitchen. "LILLY, GET SOME WASH RAGS, WARM WATER, AND A FRESH NIGHT GOWN FOR KAT AND TAKE IT UP TO HER!" They would hear scurrying of sound coming from the kitchen. Looking back to Osiris. "I'm an old man, I've spilled my share of blood in my life, and given of my own. I don't fear you as most do. I will hunt you down!" The words were spoken in a calm even tone. No threat, it was a solid pact of a promise. He would then turn and walk away to head into the kitchen to give Lilly a hand.

[Ekaterina]

She was beginning to rouse slightly, and soft breathless moans would announce this. She felt battered and bruised, as if she'd fallen off her horse and had been dragged; yes, she knew what that felt like. Slight movement of her body, a simple shift of her head to the side, a hand rose to rest its back atop of forehead; though eyes were still closed.

When Radulfr spoke and the ire of his statements was felt Osiris knew this wasn't going to be a pleasant exchange of words. But, the words of the mountain man had stung deeper than any blade he had felt. Eye to eye he watched the giant as he condemned Osiris. But, Osiris wouldn't just let the old warrior turn away. No, no, no. In fact, he had the testicular fortitude to grab that man by the wrist and spin him to face him directly. Prepared for any hand or colossal foot to come searing his way. But, the only preemptive retaliation would be a swift dodge if need be. " You're right. " Agreeing with the man upon the subject. " But, before you go questioning my integrity maybe you should take into account where someone like me comes from. I am no god. I cannot predict the future or determine the outcome of what any life has in store for another. " Narrowed optics on the big man. " But, I've never... broken a promise to anyone. " Then, he stood quiet for a second thinking about those words. Hunt you down... There was a fire in Osiris' bones. " My intentions were never to hurt Ekaterina nor have they ever. But, since you've the all Seeing Eye I'll let you give my departure to her. I'll go to the other side of the planet so that you and her can resume life as normal. A happy family. " He didn't give the big man a chance to turn it around on him. Osiris was infuriated and beyond exhausted. A need to discharge that very anger before it all rushed into where he stood. Osiris didn't even bother opening the front door. He simply faded through it like he was fading from the eyes of the old warrior.


When he was grabbed and spun, a hammer like fist would raise and draw back in a striking position. What stayed his hand was what Osiris said. It would slowly lower the more he spoke, but that glare never left his eyes. Then he turned and was gone, just like that. The old warrior relaxed once Osiris disappeared and glanced towards the stairs. A hand lifted to be drawn over his aged features and bearded chin. What in the hell just happened? He didn't fear Osiris, but to piss Kat off? He might as well join Osiris on the other side of the planet. All he knew is that things were getting strange, and Kat was coming back with injuries which she never had before. "d**n it!" Growled and he'd storm to the door and fling it open to step outside. "That's it, just abandon her, that will make things right!" Shouted out to the darkness. "Why not, all the others have!" Taunting? He'd rather take a punch in the nose from the man then be the source of Kats pain and anger. "Might as well just come back and drive a dagger through her heart!" He'd stand there for a moment, then head back into the Inne. Either Osiris would return, or he'd be telling Kat he was gone. d**n it, d**n it, d**n it to hell!

Osiris had been all but out of ear shot when he heard that phrase. Just abandon her. If that old bastard didn't know how to torque Osiris. That was it. He did his best to respect the wishes of Radulfr and keep a stable head but that stabbed the Tsol Raa right in the center of his soul. If Radulfr was standing by the front door he wouldn't be much longer. In less than a breath Osiris would have the mountain man pinned up against the wall by the throat and by the pressure point of the collar bone to prevent full mobility of his hand. " WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME?! " It was an outright growl to the point of his racial attributes radiated in his facial expression. " I'm doing my d**nedest to ensure that woman has everything she wants. EVERYTHING. Abandon her? You really think I could bring myself to do that? " Teeth clenched and Osiris was to the point where his own intensity could probably hold back seventy-five horses if not more. " According to you I do nothing but hurt her. Do you think you can do a better? Where were you when the dragon poisoned her? Where were you when the lycan was slamming her against the wall? Or all the times she came back banged up? " His grip grew tighter yet. " I do what I can to protect her, Radulfr. I know those other men left her. Do you not think I can't see past her silent tears or the deep wounds she suffers from them? " Abyssal eyes glaring further into that man than he probably cared for. " Do you think I'm not affected when she is laying upstairs unconscious? Then, to have you... of all people... question me about my promises? As if everything I have done as been purely selfish. No... Not at all. Even in the days of old I was looking for a way to reach her without breaking the code. It's what started this whole agenda in the first place. " He let go of him but he was very aware of the giant's reach and physical location. " Only to lose her then. I'm not perfect nor do I pretend to be. But, I guess that isn't good enough is it? To know that I love that woman more than life itself. " He shook his head and eased to his more human state. " So, what do I do... Radulfr? Do I leave and remind her from time to time that I care about her?... or do I stay and put her life at risk every time we turn around? We cannot protect her from
everything no matter how hard we try. It is just the way life is. " He looked away from the behemoth of flesh and muscle. " You should be upstairs with her ensuring she is alright. "


Before he knew it his feet were slightly off the floor and he was fighting for air. A vice grip of steel about his throat made eyes bulge slightly, and he'd try to wiggle free. It seemed an eternity before he was released, landing on his feet and wheezing to sound as he regained his breath. Stagger and stumble would have him close to a table that now supported his balk with one hand. The other rose to rub at his throat. "You...." Cough, sputter. "You're not the only one who loves her." Stated in a gravely, strained voice. "Even if not in the same way." That should be an explanation enough for his concerns. If the man couldn't see and honor that, he had a problem. Just as Osiris became over protective, would he expect less from him? "I've lost two sons to war, she's become like a child to me." He'd leave it at that. He was about to turn and head up the stairs and stopped in his track.


How long had she been standing there? Long enough to witness the interaction between Osiris and Radulfr. A hand upon the wall of the stairway to aid in her balance and stance. Icy shards of blue moved from one to the other as she listened to their war with words. When Osiris spoke of his feelings, and though they had shared much in conversation before, he had never came out and made that declaration to her the way he had Rad. Attention then shifted between the two of them. "What? Because someone got the better of me I'm now viewed as incapable of taking care of myself?" Her voice soft, but audible to the ears of both men, who were also the objects of focus as eyes shifted from one to the other and then back. "I'm a big girl, and I can take care of myself. If anything happens to me, it’s due to my own choice of actions, not anyone else’s!" Chastising them both. Focus was then upon Osiris fully. "I want you in my life and as a part of it. He has no say!" Might as well put that topic to rest in full.

Osiris understood what Radulfr was getting at. Though, as the sudden steps of his had stopped that had told Osiris someone wasn't sleeping. Well, they hadn't been exactly subtle about it either. Ekaterina was standing there and for how long he wasn't sure. However, when she made the statement about him being a part of his life there was a look to Radulfr. " Neither one of us was suggesting you couldn't handle yourself. We both care about you greatly and having seen you injured in such a degree caused some pent up emotions to come unhinged. " He looked to Radulfr." As someone who has looked after you for so long I'd believe he has a great deal to say. " But, he knew she wasn't going to bring the big man into the conversation. " I know what you did there and I know why you did it. But, maybe we should try it over a cup of tea rather than loud vocals? " Smooth, came his audible and his foundation for respect visible. He made it past Radulfr and made progress toward Ekaterina. He didn't stop by her but instead went past her to his room.


No dagger flew, nor glares from the Nordic woman, that was a good sign. Where moments before they looked like two charging bulls, Osiris' words made it seem more like heated discussion. Had to give him a thumbs up on that, mentally not physically. Funny how the brutish veteran that was ready to face the immortal down had calmed in the presence of Kat. Nodding his head. "What Osiris says is true Kat. It's just two who over worry for someone they care about. Forgive my outburst and unruly behavior." Then to Osiris. "A good suggestion." Watching as Osiris moved up the stairs, he'd look to Kat and give an bit of a smile. "You should rest. I promise, no more childish outbursts." Moving up to her, a light pat to her arm before he'd head to the kitchen and disappear.


She'd just stand there looking and listening to the two. A bit of a smile to both their retreats that added calm. "Night." Quietly stated to Rad, a hand lifted to lightly rest atop of his before he retreated. Slow would be her procession, still weakened by all that happened this night. But soon she'd be walking through the door of his room, closing it behind her before she'd rest back against it. Feeling the cool press of the wood against her back. "Quiet a night." She wasn't exactly sure what all transpired, and she knew she'd get answers soon enough. Right now was a need for calm and reliving the evening was the last thing to aid in that.


Radulfr didn't try to punch his lights out in passing and Kat had allowed him to go by undisturbed. When she did make it inside she'd have noticed he had already changed and he was sitting in front of the hearth. Both eyes were closed while his hands rested upon the black cloth residing over his knees. A simple, black robe kept him warm and he was looking to relax just the same. " Mmhmm, " he responded to her lightly. His back was straight and he found himself incapable of concentrating. Recent events bouncing around in his head. He pushed to his feet and maneuvered toward her to where he could look into the baby blues. Softly, his hands took her own and he stepped back toward the bed easing her along. He'd pull her into his lap and place his arms around her. So much to say but he couldn't say anything at all.


Whilst the two banged heads below, Lilly had come up and aided in rousting her from that sleep. A bath had been made for her, but the bellowing of voices detoured her to seek out the source. Adorned in a simple shift that the young woman had provided, and she was cleaned up, she just wanted to soak for a while in the tub. That was no longer an option or thought, as those icy blues met and held whiskey gold. Her hands taken and she'd be lead to the bed without resistance or the utterance of a word. She could see his thoughts in that troubled gaze. Strange it was they could interact as if things were normal, his chill no longer seemed to effect as it had before. Once upon his lap, a shift of waist when arms rose to lightly rest over his shoulders, hands to lightly rest against the back of his neck. "What?" If he needed a prompting, she'd offer it to him. Something simple, unless he forced her to be more direct with questions. But she knew the questions wouldn't need to be asked, he'd tell her what he could, when he was able; she'd not force it.

There was a comfort he found looking within the depths of her oceanic gaze. A soothing element that eased the tension in his own body. They knew what the other thought and it was uncanny how well they could balance the other. He felt her arms trail over his shoulders and her hands upon his neck. The sensation of having her so close without the worry of stealing her breath from underneath her was surreal. The inquire only rewarded her with a kind smile. " I could hold you forever like this. " While his grip wasn't like a bear hug or anything; it was tight enough to be comfortable and to show his meaning. The Tsol Raa was having difficulty maintaining the strength to remain active, however. He softly placed his head gently against her own and closed his eyes.


At first she'd smile, it was a wonderful thought. But then she had to be herself and out of her mouth would be. "Well, we'd have to take breaks to eat, drink, and tend to personal needs." Words softly uttered when their heads pressed lightly against one another. A smirk to form, for hers remained open to watch his features. "But tonight it can be so, being able to sleep in one another’s arms." She could sense his weary nature, not so much as in a telepathic nature, body language spoken the tale enough. "I'm tired and find a want to sleep, but only in your arms." Small confessions, though he already blew the lid off that downstairs. That, too, would be discussed at a later time.

Heaven forbid for when she brought up that conversation. The release of such information wasn't exactly for anyone's ears but Radulfr played a trump card on him. Osiris felt very few gain the upper hand upon him but that old veteran had managed. The sing song audible of her voice eased him into a serenity. While beyond exhausted the stress and tenseness of his muscles began to soften. The brief confession had caused him to open his eyes once more. His head being pulled away so that he could further look within her eyes. His own holding a rather ethereal shade of the hazel spectrum." Then let us sleep. " He quietly whispered. Osiris graced her lips with a sensual kiss and eased the pair of them back onto the bed so that they could stretch out. Upon reaching the comfort level his mouth pulled from hers and for as long as he could he watched her. But, every second that passed his eyes grew heavier and eventually he fell victim to the sandman's bags.

Oh, by the way. When she was overly tired, or completely worn out, she snored like a bear. Tonight would be proof of this!

He didn't mind. It was better than Radulfr when he slept in the kitchen.

[Ekaterina]

Autumn was making itself known as of late. The humidity of the day had given away to the cool dampness, placing a chill upon the light gusts of breeze that filtered over the land. Though the days still radiated heat, it would be the temperate differences that created the thick banks of fog that rolled aimlessly over the ground and hung within branches of trees. An occasional glimpse of moon and stars to peek between the drifting banks, basking the land with a bluish pale light to momentarily cause shadows to recede. On nights such as this, travel was little to nothing, due to those whom took opportunities upon nights like these. This allowed a time to relax a bit, though never fully with guard down. Windows of the Inne were partly raised, to allow the cool air to filter through and clean that of the common room interior. Though open, within the massive hearth a fire did blaze, and before this is where she presently rested upon one of the two winged back chairs nestled there. Adorned in traditional leathers and hides of pants, tunic, and boots. Flaxen mane fixed within the tight formations of braids common to heritage. Icy shards of blue fixed upon the dance of flames as her mind toiled in thought. A glass of whiskey idly grasped in hand only partially filled with the amber liquid.


:: You’d think after the night prior she'd have stopped drinking, at least for a small time. Then again, a Nord parted from their drink is a thing rarely heard from. Something rumbled outside the inn, and should she take notice, the whiskey in her hand rippled ever so slightly, even without motions from herself. Whatever was out there must have been large. Whatever it was strode by, a wave of darkness passing over the windows that lingered for a moment before passing on, a thick fog following it that started to seep through the open windows. ::


More the rumble than whiskey's motion to draw her from that moment of reverie. Icy shards of blue would turn as would her head to glance out the nearest window. Slight furrow of brows as something out of sorts was noted, then followed by something out of the norm; the dark fog which began to seep through the windows. Glass to be set aside as she slowly rose from her seat and all the windows would now be taken note of. Eyes did narrow slightly, as the idea that something of the arcane was at play here and that which dabbled in darkness. Moving back and closer to the fires side, keeping focus upon the room as a whole, an advantage she had from position chosen. She made no move to place in hand a weapon, for there was presently nothing to use it against.

:: The rumbling continued, and over a time, if she focused upon it, it was clearly actually two distinct noises, one of them lower in pitch than the other. And more surprisingly they were words being traded. It was not in the common words of the language, but a fell and black tongue. However as soon as it came, it too did leave. The rumbling stopped, as did the faint quaking of the ground. It was replaced instead by a small commotion of noise, the sounds of someone dismounting from a creature and making ready. To do what, was any ones guess. Footsteps creaked across the porch of the inn and another darkened figure moved past one of the windows, heading towards the door. ::


The warmth of the fire felt against her back and side, which would cause her to outwardly relax. About her throat rested a silver chain, suspended from it a gem of crimson color, translucent with a swirling mass within it. It pulsated slightly, the light dim and dull in emittance. The slow steady pulses of light resembling that of a heartbeat, perhaps hers? A glance given to her abandoned glass, then towards the window as the figure moved past. Thoughtful expression before she was set into motion. Several steps to carry her to where the glass laid in wait, to be captured in hand before she'd return to her previous spot of stance. A shoulder to rest back against the rocky surface and the glass to rise to sip from, as those crystalline blues continued to view the common room as a whole, to which the door was easily seen.


::The door swung open with an easy and slow motion, allowing the figure to move in, though clearly at an odd angle, looking rather comical for a moment before it got completely inside, though once it had, it was a massive figure, standing nearly twice as a large man and as wide as two side by side at the shoulder. It was hard to tell just what it was, or its gender, for it bore a fine traveling cloak of deep black furs, looking like they had at one point belonged to a black bear. From neck to hips it was held shut by silver facets, a pair of long sleeves ended with supple blackened leather gloves and a long claw hood that hung over a hidden face. In one hand was a large leather pack that hung empty. The figure didn't bother to look about or speak with any one, only went up to the bar keep and set the bag on the counter top. Pulling a sheet of velum from it, the sheet was handed off to the tender. ::


A moment to watch the giant figure as it approached the bar and handed the sheet of velum to Radulfr, who glanced her way, then back to the item that was held in hand. He'd look to the one that gave it to him, then moved to the end of the bar and offered it out to Kat. The tender may be a warrior of old, but one thing he never had to do, nor did, was learn to read. She'd stand there for a moment more, then finished off the whiskey. Once done, a light push from that lean and she'd move to intercept Rad and make an exchange. The glass for the thin sheet of skin. Another glance towards the figure before icy shards would inspect the item offered.

:: It was a list, short and simple, not a demanding of money, but just simple supplies that a traveler might need. Considering this was an Inn and not a market or general store, it was mostly food related. Dried and salted meats, water skins, nuts, some bottles of mead, and things along that line. When she ended up with the list instead of the tender, she would find the figure looking dead at her. Even its face was covered, hidden behind an intricate and highly detailed mask that looked as if someone had made a death mask out of gold. It was not the face of a man however, but that of a dragon. The only cut outs where the eyes, from which a pair of sold slightly glowing red eyes, interrupted by reptile like golden slits. The creature blinked briefly, showing lids of fine red scales. ::


The list gone over, then once more before attention would turn upon the stranger that now had its gaze directed her way. Momentary meeting of fire and ice when gazes met. Features remained neutral, eyes just as expressionless in state. "This will cost you the weight of twenty gold." Stated in a quieted tone, no need for volume of voice in an empty common room. A touch to Radulfr's shoulder and she'd turn to head into the kitchen with him following behind. Voices to be heard, of not the two, but three. Two distinctly female and one male. After a few moments it would be the Norse to pass back through the door and ease behind the bar. Moving to stand directly before the figure on the other side, a hand held out in show she was awaiting payment.


::When this other woman approached him without stretched hand, he shook his head towards her, his voice coming out in a deep bass.:: "I'm not going to pay you twenty pounds of gold for so little, that is a gross over payment. I could buy this land, the Inn and everything in it for twenty pounds of gold." ::There was either a gap in communications in price, or they were trying to give him the shaft!::


Now that made a brow rise. "Hmm.." A subtle sound to emit as she just gazed up at him for a moment. Then not another word as she slowly turned and made way back into the kitchen. Again words heard being shared, and then it would be the male’s voice which raised slightly, a tone of anger within it. After a few minutes she'd return from the kitchen to the bar, in her hand was his velum and she was handing it back. "Then perhaps you'll find better deals at the market in the Port City." Head tilted slightly as once more fire and ice met with gazes. "What you ask for would mean I have to take from the provisions of our guests, and if you aren't willing to pay a small pittance to what they have for rooms and meals, then we can't do business." Calmly stated in an even tone.


"I will give you twenty gold sovereigns, though not pounds." ::He was literally referring to the weight and not a measure of currency. He even slid his hand between the facets and into the confines of his cloak to pull forth a hand full of large, cloth bound coins which he placed in front of her. It was only five at the time, but he offered them up to her.:: "Test them if you will, they are solid gold, and I have more."


Now that caused a smirk to grace those unpainted lips, though features and eyes maintained their emotionless state. "Coins were all I asked for." She'd snatch the velum back before heading to the kitchen once more. Again the sharing of voices, and the sound of chuckling to be heard. A moment later she'd return to the spot abandoned prior. "Then it seems we can do business after all. A week’s amount of provisions is in the process of being collected." One of the coins would be taken and examined. "Only fifteen more and your bill is paid."


"Coins...oh!" ::She couldn't see his face of course, though she could see the smile in his eyes and the rumble of laughter in his chest and throat.:: "Well, that solves that problem, eh?" ::He couldn't help but shake his head, still finding it funny. Though once she returned, he provided the coinage required and them and even five extra for the trouble of running them out of product for the time.::


The coins collected, she'd then turn and snag a large tankard. Being he was large in side, it was an appropriate vessel to snag. This was carried to the keg of mead and filled before returning to stand before him and set it upon the bar. The coins would be placed in a large lead box behind the bar then closed and locked. "If you're hungry, there are still a few venison steaks and vegetables left from the evening meal." Otherwise the wolves were getting leftovers again.

"If you'd be so kind, I could use some steaks. I have a mount that needs feeding." ::He took the mug from her and nodded in thanks, leaving the bag there to let them fill it. With mug in hand he moved to the fire where she had been before, though with his great size he could not use a chair, instead simply sitting with legs folded so close to the hearth that the heat would push anyone else away.::


A nod of her head. "Want to feed him now or take it with you when you leave?" Moving to collect the bag, she was rerouting back towards the kitchen. Once he answered her question, she'd disappear back inside the kitchens confines to give further orders before exiting into the common room again. She'd move to collect a new glass, and this would be filled from a bottle of whiskey collected from a cupboard beneath. Whiskey replaced, and since no others were there to be tended to, he'd have company by the fire, only she'd return to claim the seat abandoned a short time ago.


"I'll feed him later, or you can if you want a rare experience." ::He chuckled softly at the thought, though once she was back at the fire, she would see the mask at the edge of the hearth beside him, his hand lifting every so often to drink from the large vessel. The mask, strangely enough, was hollow within the long snout that filled out the dragon visage.::


"I'm always interested in rare experiences." Quietly stated with a touch of a grin before it was hidden behind the glass raised to sip from. It would then lower to rest atop that right knee, as she silently studied the figure she came to figure as a male, due to baritone of voice. "Are you that hideous beneath, or so beautiful you must hide your face?" A simple question to sate curiosity as she continued to gaze upon him.


"Have you ever been hit in the face with an axe, or a mace? Or had an arrow pierce you're cheek or eye?" ::It was mostly a rhetorical question, he could tell by looking at her that she had not, for something like that leaves a scar, and a big one.:: "It is not an experience I'd like to go through again, so I have armor to protect me from it. Besides, I've been called both hideous and beautiful, so I leave that up for others to decide. Now." ::He chuckled slightly.:: "Let’s go feed my mount."


"I usually duck." A simple comment in response, even though the question asked was moot; visuals set that to fact. "I have had an arrow pierce a cheek a few times." Touch of a smirk as the glass was lifted and the contents halved with the drink taken. Just what cheeks did she refer to? Didn't matter, it's not like it was going to be confirmed. "Alright." Standing she'd move to the kitchen door and open it enough to pop her head through. Murmur of words before she was handed a rag with several steaks placed upon it. Turning yet again to face towards the patron. "After you!" A hand to indicate the door she headed towards, and would even open for him, how gentleladermanly of her.


"Either you have a good healer or your arse must have more than one hole in It." ::He pushed himself to a stand, grabbing the mask and placing it back over his face as she went to get the steaks. As she returned, he was setting the pitcher of mead aside and awaiting her. When she moved to the door and opened it, he headed outside and into the darkness and the fog. Taking a deep breath, he waved for her to follow as he moved to the side of the inn where the small stables rested. However instead of going into them, he went around them. It was hard to see it in the fog and the dark, but there was a massive lump like form in the dirt that almost looked like a gigantic boulder.::


"Use to have holes, now they're healed. So I guess I'm a good healer." A play on words in an amused tone with a touch of a grin upon lips. Once he stepped outside, she'd follow behind him and was a bit surprised when they began to head towards the stable. His beast ate meat, and the horses were kept there. It better not be preferable to horseflesh, or they'd have a problem. When they passed, she noticed all the mounts were safe and secure. Then they were heading about to the back of the structure. Subtle at first was the shape that belonged there not, to seem like a giant bolder that had loosed itself from the cliffs above. Icy shards of blue kept him in peripheral as she stood some distance back to observe what laid upon that fog covered ground. Steaks maintained in a hold of hand.


::He growled something out, speaking in that fell language once again, and in turn was answered by the fog covered creature with a voice far deeper than his own. The figure stirred and rolled, coming to stand on massive tree trunk like legs. The creature was far taller than its rider, and looked to be a full shoulder taller than an elephant and twice as long, and as it approached it looked like something from a night mare. It had a pair of long tusks like cavalry lances with teeth like spear heads and claws like sabers while its hide was black and marbled in dark purple splotches, large boney plates poking out at random.::


To say she was a bit taken back would be an understatement, however her footing held firm. Head tilted as icy shards of blue regarded the creature, then its owner before attention turned back. "Interesting." Softly stated. It was then she'd unfold the material from around the fresh venison meat, one of the large steaks to be taken in hand. Now most would have tossed the raw item at such a creature, but then the Norse was anything but like most; as those to her would attest as they complained. No, instead she'd take a few steps forward, holding onto one end of the bloodied flesh as it was extended out to the creature that stood before her. "I'm beginning to question if I actually brought enough." Stated with a touch of a grin.

"You didn't. Who do you think all that food is for." ::He chuckled softly, though as he did the creature strode closer still until the both of them were standing between its tusks. It rumbled loudly, lips and jaw shifting to speak clearly, though in a tongue unknown to her. The master responded back and the beast leaned in ever so slowly and carefully to take the meat, clearly trying to make sure it didn't take half her arm with it.:: "She wants to know if you know about the Dragon around here."


A glance over at him with his revelation and a brow did rise. "And here I thought it was for you to keep up that impressive figure of yours." Looking back to the beast as it moved closer and then spoke in words she understood not, and he to respond in like. Amazed by the gentle nature in which the meat was taken. Once the first was removed from hand, a second would take its place. Ready and available to be claimed when ready. It would be his words that had her looking over towards the man. "I've heard rumors, though you know how rumors are. Some filled with truths, but most always filled with fabrications and over exaggerations to make for a good tale."


"Impressive figure?" ::He gave her an odd look while scoffing:: "For all I know I could be as fat as a king under this, or thin as a starving orphan." ::He gave a soft laugh at the thought as the beast moved to take the other steak, still muttering through the food, to which he spoke back, the two of them conversing quickly.:: "We are out seeking the creature, it's actually rumors that lead us hear. It has something I desire."


"Mmhmm, you could very well be. If that of a fat king, then more explanatory the amount of food purchased. Gluttony is considered a royal trait after all. As thin as a starving orphan? That could explain it too. No matter which it may be, quite a striking form you offer to be visualized, so your secret is hidden and safe of if you're fat or skinny." Playful wink directed his way as the beast took the second steak, it was then a third was produced. "Sounds like so many stories I have heard. I have heard told a dragon has stolen a kings treasure, then in another that it claims a sorcerers library, then another of it having the most powerful tools of mage's." Slight shrug of shoulders. "So what does this rumored beast have that you seek?" Icy blues turned to fix upon the man.


::He shook his head, laughing all the more still.:: "Truth be told I am neither. Perhaps you shall one day see. By which I mean when I go back inside I'll more than likely take off my cloak to get comfortable. After all, this thing is to keep out the weather, not to be worn indoors." ::As he spoke the beast lurched forwards and took the last haunch of meat from her before backing away and dropping to its side with a loud thud, clearly ready to go back to its slumber. Watching it return, he turned back, eager to get back to his mead and his purchase.:: "An ancient relic of our kind that I am eager to learn of and investigate. I am a researcher of all things draconic."


"I await with baited breath." Teasingly stated to his comment of looks. Then the beast took the last steak and flopped on its side? Why did that remind her of an old wolf she once had and how it enacted after it ate its fill? Using the rag to wipe the blood of the venison from her hands, it would be tossed over to the back wall of the stable. A glance over at him. "So it has ancient Draconian relics as well. This dragon must have quite a treasury, for all it’s supposedly claimed to have in its possession. Not like it could be carried in a simple pouch upon ones side." Touch of a grin, another glance back to the resting beast, before she'd turn and lead their way back to the Inne and inside.

[Ekaterina]

Autumn was making itself more and more known with each passing evening. Clear proof of this was the damp coolness of the night, how it created the perfection of atmosphere to conduce the heavy fog which clung to the land. The warmth of the ground from the day’s heat and the coolness of the air to be that which gave birth to the rolling translucent banks of moisture. It surrounded the Inne like a blanket, the dimness of lantern light to illuminate the walls of fog that drifted with the light breeze. Within the Inne, a few silhouettes could be seen through the windows, created by the soft light of lanterns and the warmth of the flaming hearth within.

Radulfr stood in attendance behind the bar. Lilly, his slave, tended to the kitchen this night.

The Norse was relaxing in her favorite chair before the fires warmth, a tankard of mead resting within the grip of right hand. Adorned this night in traditional wear of leathers and hides, which comprised the tunic, pants, and boots all dyed a midnight black. Long flaxen mane fell freely save for a few tiny braids that marked heritage of birth.


Osiris had been gone for a majority of the week consulting with his elders and seeking approval of permissible gifts against his soon to come foes. The man's power came at an expensive price and with danger now looming around every turn he needed to know what could be used and what was still forbidden within the realm of mortals. No steed marked his path. No trail of blood to be followed. Just the crystalline foliage that was standard with his presence any more. The ground scarred by the trailing of his large katana until he came look upon the Inne. He was draped in wraps and robes much like a nomad from the desert. A step through the door and he casted his optical organs along the establishment. Radulfr was the first to capture his gaze and Osiris provided a light, respectful nod. Perhaps no anger or ire to be raised this day or so he silently prayed. He didn't see Lilly but he did notice Ekaterina. The wraps that had covered his face with the exception of his eyes had been removed and casted over his shoulder much like a scarf. Quietly, he moved until he placed his weapon against its usual spot near the lit hearth.

Icy shards of crystalline blue would shift from their fixed gaze upon the dance of flames before her and trail onwards to settle upon him when Osiris set his weapon near the fire. She knew who it was upon entry, for the frigid sensation that proceeded him upon entry was a tell-tale sign. "Osiris." Greeting him with a soft tone of voice, just the hint of a smile to appear upon unpainted lips. A glance in Radulfr’s direction with a slight rise of brow.

This had the old warrior giving her a stern look, before a deep sigh exited and he set into preparing a kettle of tea.

Seems she and the old man had a meeting of the minds, so to speak. Attention would turn back upon Osiris then. "I hope all is well."


Subtle adjustments were made to his current wear and gear. Movement wasn't hindered but the fabric of cloth wasn't particularly his favorite either. The greeting had him looking toward Ekaterina. There was a difference within his eyes. They held not that of coffee or whiskey coloring but rather abyssal with specks of light dancing around where the iris should be. " Ekaterina, " the Tsol Raa replied in a soothing release of audible. The faint sign of her smile caused his own to etch lightly before claiming a spot by the fire. The exchange of looks had been missed on his part simply because he was looking to warm his gloved hands. " As well as one could hope for, " he replied without looking in her direction. Osiris' focus enraptured by the flame before him.


The change of his eyes was well noted and caused brows to furrow slightly in thought. "Care to elaborate? Or do you have to kill me after you tell me?" A hint of teasing in her tone, smile to twitch into a slight smirk before it was hidden behind the rise of that tankard to drink from.

Radulfr would soon loom as a shadow over the two of them as he moved to the small table that separated their chairs. Wordlessly he'd set the tinder box upon a rag laid out on the table, followed by the kettle which housed a wintergreen and honeysuckle blend of tea. Along with an empty cup and service of honey accompanied by a sthingy. Once this was all set into place, he'd return to his spot behind the bar.

The Norse would glance up at Rad and watch him, her smirk to grow more when he remained silent in his task. Seems he was going to keep to his word and behave. Focus returned to Osiris as she awaited his response.


The request to elaborate had brought his attention toward the lioness of the night. " The aspect that resides over time, space, and its conjunction has granted me access to a small portion of my ancient arts. " Once more his set sights onto the hypnotizing fire. " One of the side effects is physical alterations over such a span. My eyes are just a start. " The shadow of the old warrior felt and the Tsol Raa glanced his way. Every movement observed as if in preparation for a strike or swing. The aroma of the wintergreen had temporarily distracted him, however. A look was given over everything, " Thank you, " came the gratitude from Osiris. Even now, he had respect for the big man nor did it plan to waver. Osiris went about making himself a cup of tea adding only half of a sthingyful of honey to the mixture. It was mixed and then the utensil and the cup were set back down. Osiris allowed his back to meet the comfort of the furniture and continue to analyze his silent thoughts.


"For the last time Laeyr, my answer is no..." Randell stepped into the familiar interior of the common room followed by the flamboyant pirate, Rin Laeyr and his ever constant shadow, Myoc. All three men were as different from the other as night and day. The subtle style and artistic finesse of the merchant, with his usual colors of black and gray, alleviated only by the wilting rose pin he wore over his heart. Rin's appearance was more a bunch to the face, wearing a variety of sharp hues to make the eyes water - bright reds, greens and gold’s, along with the gilt upon belt, boots and the true luster of his sword hilts.

Then there was Myoc. Between the pair, his was the most frank of looks, pretending neither to be more than he was, nor fall into the typical stereotypes of half-breed orc. Despite the single tusk thrusting out of the left side of his mouth, and that sloping brow, Myoc's dark eyes glittered with a keen intelligence, and what must've seemed a saintly patience to put up with a captain like Rin Laeyr. As the two walked further into the inn, Myoc took a lean by the door, thick arms folded across his barrel-like chest, looking quietly intimidating with all that hard muscle and the worn cudgel sitting handsomely against his hip. It seemed, for as long as Rin was present in Kat's inn, she earned the half-orc's service as a bouncer.

"Come now, Randell, I don't remember the last time you went on a trip so far north! If you're going, there must be gold to be made, no?" He shook his head, raking fingers through a tussled mane that somehow fell in a naturally charming, disheveled look about his young visage. Actually being as good looking as he believed did little to diminish the pirate's ego.

"You don't remember, Rin, because I tend not to keep you appraised of my movements or dealings. How you found out about this venture is beyond me, but the answer is still no..." while Myoc's patience was saintly, Randell Daviun's calm was the stuff of legends, with those keen gray eyes and features that could at one moment be warm and friendly, then in the next look as if carved from stone. Randell ordered a brandy, and the coin he slapped down intended to pay for the entire bottle; it was going to be a long night.


That seemed to phase Rin Laeyr very little. "When have I ever failed in our business venture, Randell - when have I ever not come through for you?" he pressed, following the merchant up to the bar.



She listened as he explained further and others questions poised within her mind, but to never find space of air to be spoken. The opening of the door and the sounds of voices muted those as soon as they formed. Head turned slightly to view the trio that made entry. A wink directed Myoc's direction, she cared little for Orc’s, or half orc, but she was beginning to warm up to the silent sentinel, and gave him credit for having to deal with the overgrown man-child in her assessment. Inwardly she cringed hearing Rin whine about wanting to take part on the trip. A glance then to Randell and a rise of a brow in silent question, due to the conversation they shared not long ago. "Maybe you should send Rin to tend to the hot springs in your absence." Teasingly directed towards Randell, with but a glance towards Rin before attention was back on Osiris. "I'd like to learn of these changes, if you know, before they happen if there's something to which I should be prepared." Quietly stated to him.

She was never without her questions and Osiris knew. A place of public was usually chosen to limit such and once more it looked to play in his favor. The arrival of Randell, Myoc, and Rin hadn't gone unaware. Osiris turned his head just enough to send his obsidian gaze in their direction. If any of the three had looked toward Osiris during that time frame he provided a soft nod in greeting. It was then he took his tea in his hand and allowed it's heated substance to warm his throat. The comment from Ekaterina toward Randell had inspired him to look back toward Rin more so. Though, Ekaterina had stolen his attention once more. " I'll give you warning as they come along. We've a small deal of time before the effects begin to become drastic. " Upon finishing there was a look that told her they'd speak another time about it. She had company after all. Another small amount of the cup's contents consumed and the container was replaced. No sooner did he look back to the fire did he seem like he was in a trance. It couldn't be helped at the moment but he was fully aware of what was going on around him.


"You have a hot spring?" Rin asked darkly, a sly smile spreading across his lips. "Oh, you old dog, you've been holding out on me!"

Randell just offered Kat a side long look, and there was a subtle change to his expression. She could almost read the warning on the merchant's face. Is that how you want to play, then? Game on... "I cannot give permission for you to tag along on this venture because it isn't mine to go," Randell replied evenly as bottle and snifter were placed in front of him, and he poured out a measure of the amber liquid into the glass. "It's Ekaterina's..." Randell finished softly, taking a cultured sip and smiling slightly.

Rin's gaze turned to Kat, and it was almost shocking how that smug, self-satisfied look transformed into a leer. It was as pointed as a sword thrust to the gut, and Rin Laeyr was hardly ashamed of the openness of his looks. "Is that the deal, 'eh?" he asked, brow arched, heedless of her conversation with Osiris. In Rin's mind, he wasn't being rude. Naturally, if he showed Kat any kind of attention, it was an expected reaction to drop all previous pursuits and lavish him with the full brunt of her attention. "Do I dare even have to ask if you want me along for this journey?" the question was poised upon the slant of a half-smile, eyes glittering with a certain fire that might've excited lesser women. But, Kat had proven to be immune to his charms before.

Randell watched the exchange out of the corner of his eye while raising his glass in greeting to Osiris. Rin didn't even seem to know the older man was present.

Myoc had lifted a hand in greeting to both, but hadn't left his spot by the door. He did, however, drag a hand over his face in embarrassment.

"The north is quite cold, and I can be oh... so... warm..." he took a confident stride forward, hands resting upon the pommels of his slender blades. You had to give it to the man if Rin could do anything well, it was strike a pose. "And, compared to Randell's often dour company, I'd think you welcome the vigor and... endurance of our private exchanges."


A nod of understanding in Osiris' direction. Focus would shift upon hearing Rin, and in time to catch that look directed her way by Randell. What look did he gain in return? One of youthful innocents as she gave him that whaaat? look of expression. That was until Randell let loose that leash of Rin's and he turned on her. Features maintained that expression of youthful innocents, though crystalline blues did take on their icy facade when they fixed upon the preening peathingy of Rin's form. "An interesting fact that I'll have to keep in mind. Though I doubt I'll need your services in that department, as I doubt you could ever replace the warmth to which I feel when I'm around Myoc. Now, if you could find a way to resemble him in some manner, you might have a chance in hell of succeeding." So sweet was the smile that formed upon her lips, her voice a soft sing song sound of words to filter forth. Mocking him? Of course. She'd apologize to Myoc later for making him the center of attention on that one. Those who knew her, knew that such an event would take place on the day she regained her virginity. Though she would deflect his attentions with a simple motion of hand. "In truth, Osiris is the one you truly need to speak to, since he's the one you'll be taking orders from." How she tried to hide that smirk to form. She'd apologize to Osiris later too, but in another way. Yes, she deflected Rin's wiles with ease and an air of indifference. Attention then turned upon Randell, paybacks were a pregnant dog. "Are we still on for the meeting we spoke of, that you wanted to take place at your hot springs?"


The Inne had become a brighter place overall with Rin's antics of entertainment. Soundlessly, Osiris remained still and only listening to the exchange of verbose amongst the others. Randell's expression missed but the tone of his remark cut down like a sharp knife through warm butter. Then, Rin fired off with Ekaterina turning it into a spectacle. Amusement hinted upon his own features as Myoc was now in the spot light. What little did he that he would become next. Osiris shot his eyes toward Ekaterina and then toward Randell. So, they wanted to put the weight upon his shoulders did they? Very well, he thought. " Rin, " Osiris stated plainly. He didn't move for his spot but it was quite clear and concise. There was another glance shared between merchant and the proprietor not waiting to gain Rin's attention. " You appear swift and you've a cunning tongue. " Observational compliments from the Tsol Raa. Doubting, they meant much. " But, I don't believe you have the credentials... " Yes, it ended as if he was going to say more. " Unless, you can prove to me otherwise? " There was a rather sly twist at the corners of his mouth. Onyx eyes fixated upon the flamboyant fellow and Ekaterina should have known that expression very well. Mischief, pure and simple.


"Don't drag me into this." When the deep rumble of a voice first spoke, it wasn't immediately certain where its source derived.

Then, almost as one, they glanced at the half-orc, who had hardly spoken a word to any of them. "What?"

Myoc grunted, waving them off. "Don't..." he jabbed a thick finger in Kat's direction, and despite her years of life, and countless exchanges with deadly opponents and insurmountable challenges, under that glower she couldn't help but get the feeling of being a misbehaving kitten disciplined by a beloved owner.

Rin just rolled his eyes. "Come now, Ekaterina - you've got to try better than that..." he seemed almost... disappointed in her ploy. And he might very well have been. Despite his color and flair, an idiot couldn't have become the captain of the Howling Harlot and command such respect from a veteran crew. There was some substance to the man, and he leveled that intensity upon the Norse now. "Myoc and me have been together since the very beginning. There's no one I trust more... which means only one thing." And here, he paused dramatically. "That warmth you feel from Myoc, is merely a reflection of my own heat. I know... I know... you're lack of confidence makes my first mate a likely focus for your attention, because you don't think... in your wildest dreams, that someone as handsome as I would be interested in you, but you're wrong!" With a sweeping gesture, Rin grinned broadly. "You don't need to be intimidated by my good looks, Kat... you are a beautiful woman, and quite worthy of me, if only a touch on the cold side."

Behind, they all heard Myoc groaning softly, his face buried beneath his hand.

Randell drank. Heavily. Then suddenly was choking on his brandy.

"So, there's no need for these silly games. Don't be shy, you needn't-" when she mentioned Osiris, Rin was brought up short. "What?" he asked, incredulous, turning to the man and eyeing him as if he were looking upon a newly discovered sea creature. One with horns, and scales. And an odor. "Why would your grandfather be calling the shots, Kat?"

Recovering, Randell finally was able to speak, somehow maintaining his calm. "We can have that meeting any time you like, and as for the hot springs, I merely mentioned them. Now that I think of it, they might be a bad idea..." he took another sip of brandy. "We wouldn't want you to melt, now would we?"


Rin was still shaking his head, as if not hearing a word Osiris had said. "C'mon, Kat... I saw how you had to practically hold this guy up as you danced a few nights back. If we're bringing him along, I will not be feeding him, or helping him to the privy."


Randell turned to Osiris, and said in a very carrying whisper. "I would not be offended if you killed him."


Oh yes, she knew well what the look meant. All she could pray for is that the mischief wouldn't be directed her way; been there, done that. Then towards Myoc focus shifted, not as surprised as the others, since she didn't know the half-orc as well as the two men, but felt familiar enough to tease him when she could. The glower directed her way would be met by the cutest of pouts, like a scolded kitten would appear. But lasted not long as focus turned back upon Rin as he continued on. "You're quite correct Rin." Said with a soft exhale of a near sigh. Slow shake of her head as she set her tankard off to the side. "You're just too much man for me to handle. I relent to your over bearing charm and wit. However, there's one thing that stands between you and I..." Icy shards of blue would meet his gaze, and that mask of pure youthful innocents would be maintained. "The man you've dubbed as my Grandfather." Osiris is going to kick her ass, she just knew it. But it would be well worth putting the pirate in his place. "If you don't listen to him, and do as he bids, or gain his permission, it'll never be." Attention shifted to Randell, and again he'd gain the most sweetest of smiles. "Do you truly fear that I'll melt?" Though those icy shards of blue did hold a glint of bedevilment within their depths. "I had the impression that's the effect you were hoping to gain." Tit for tat! A glance then towards Osiris, she knew he'd make her pay later and she'd be ready for that; maybe.

:: the small girl wandered in through the door quietly she was just looking for a warm place to rest for a little while.. hoping no one would care or even notice her she moved to a table and sat dropping her pack on the floor next to her::


Osiris was beyond entertained. This was far better than any gladiatorial sport or game of shadows. The battle of wit and retort came with sharper swords and even darker shadows. He had veered his attention away from the fire to balance it amongst the group within. Out of the corner of his eye he spotted a small girl and once she was situated he shifted his attention toward the dancing words of Rin and Ekaterina. Grandfather? He was getting older by the day. Randell's whisper had rewarded the merchant with considering smirk. Now, Osiris had an idea. He stood to his feet and slowly, if not decrepitly making his way toward his cane? For those who had been paying attention it had been a sword much earlier. Illusions were Osiris's forte and if their friend Rin wanted to tag along there was going to be some fun to be had one way or another. He returned to his seat with both hands on the end of his stick. Slowly, Osiris' face began to age and his hair began to gray as if someone had turned his biological clock several years forward. Wrinkles forming while he quietly and patiently waited. Biding his time.

Myoc - a large, brutish half-orc standing by the door, eyed this latest entrance into the inn with a baleful look. However, he neither halted her advance into the room, nor made any further threat in the stranger's direction. He just went back to watching the scene unfold, then stiffened when Osiris began to transform.

"Perhaps," Randell answered Kat softly, pouring out another generous measure of brandy into his snifter. "Though, considering the goal of our little mission, I thought a little practice couldn't go amiss. I've put feelers out for information about this barbarian king... and one thing I've learned - he's not a stupid man. Unlike some of our current company." Randell turned to glance at Rin, which caused him to glimpse Osiris and his little spectacle. He was unsurprised.

The pirate, standing between them all, had sobered quite readily. He was silent for a long time, watching Osiris' features bend to the weight of time. "You see, Kat?" Rin said in a very flat tone. "Your protests have bored your grandfather to death."

Randell smirked at that.

Myoc, having come a step closer, was reaching for his cudgel.


A single raised hand from the pirate halted the half-breed's advance. "Seriously, Randell..." he turned toward the merchant, then back at Osiris. "What have you entangled yourself in now?" Bereft of arrogance and a smug smile, Rin could look quite cunning himself, with his narrowed eyes and sharp frown. "What's the game, then, old man - what's this all about?"