Are men all the same?

[lunlie]

The city was buzzing with people, all running about doing errands, and fending for themselves. Little kids laughing as they played in small groups, business men talking while eating outside, moms calling after trouble some children, builders constructing homes and buildings, so much activity going on. This amazed Lunlie; she had never seen such things in a place such as this. I was a lot to collect at one moment, but Lunlie never gave this off. She walked slowly through the crowds of people; they seemed to be running circles around her. Lonnie’s green cloak-hood was up covering her face from the sun and the peoples’ hash looks, and it flowed down to her ankles only make revealing her black, stiff looking boots. If the people around her would stop and look for a second they would realize how out of place she was. Lunlie had been heading to a small shop that appeared to be serving food, but something whipped her around fast. Since entering the huge city, Lunlie’s senses were at the top peak. She was sharp with her movements and almost impossible to see if needed. When she was spun around her reaction was to slice the person who dared to touch her, though when she spun around, dagger ready, she came face to face with a man who was begging for coin. Lunlie about to put away her dagger looked the man up and down, why did she care about the man’s health, she didn’t know, but he shouldn’t have touched her. The man kept begging for coin, and had not let her arm go even though she had pulled at her arm. Sick at the stench of the man, Lunlie’s mind decided quickly. Her arm mover quick and did the deed. Her dagger had entered the man’s spinal cord, cutting off his movements and sound. Lunlie then, not letting the man fall, carried him, but made it look as if the where walking together. She slowly set him in a chair next to a store and quickly left him there. No one would able to tell who had killed him. As she walked back to the food store she was about to enter before the man had interrupted her, she got a horrid feeling in her stomach. She couldn’t eat now. She sighed. Her head lowered and she turned left, away from the body and the food that would have refreshed her. She felt guilty, Lunlie had never been kind to killing people, but with what she had seen so far of this world outside of her father’s cage, she had realized that no one was kind until you opposed a threat or wanted something in return.

Except, that man… Kaji…

The name stuck out in her mind. She did not know anything but his name. Lunlie looked up at a building that appeared before her. It was long and appears two or three stories. Strange symbols above the door made her stop for a moment. –What does that mean? - Lunlie whipped around again, but this time at choice when she sensed a man nearing. (You going to rent a room of what?) The man wore sheep cloths and looked dirty. He had short, horrible cut hair, with nasty dark brown eyes. Lunlie shot a look up at the building once more; inspecting the walls and feeling that came with it. The building looked old and worn. The steps looking dangerous and the smell of bacteria in the air giving her a dark feeling. –It seems dirty and dangerous, but I need rest and I think no one would look for some one like me here.-

Yes… how much is it?

He seemed to look her over once, and then again. He couldn’t see anything under her cloak, but it was obvious that she was a woman well of age, and in good condition. He seemed to settle at her face, it almost seemed like her could see through her cloak, but Lunlie knew he couldn’t. (Hmmm... let me see your face.) –Should I show him my face? Is it worth it? - Her mind was going and going, but in the end she hadn’t seen the harm in letting him see her face. She slowly raised her arms, the cloak revealing her black gloved hands. Her hand grabbed the tip of her hood pulled it down. Before the light touched her face, she softened her features. When finally the man set his gaze on the full of her face, he saw the innocent dark green eyes, and long, soft black hair that cradled around her cheek. There was an instant change in the man’s behavior. It was the weirdest thing Lunlie had ever seen. (Yes, you will have a room. Free of charge. Here, room number four, on the top floor.) The man held out a key, that had a weird symbol on it too, 4. Lunlie grabbed it, and headed into the building. He man seemed weirdly kind like Kaji to Lunlie, yet not. Kaji seemed different yet the same. But one thing was sure, Kaji seemed innocent in any intentions, Lunlie saw this man as having hiden motives. Using her common sense she found a flight of stairs that lead upwards. She came to a hall way on the top floor and located a door with the symbol 4 on it. She placed the key in the hole and unlocked the door. When she walked in the room, she saw it was the nicest feature the whole building had.

Some thing doesn’t seem right.

She looked around and saw clothing around her. Lunlie mind raced. At first when the man gave the offer Lunlie had thought of it as a generous offer, like the one Kaji had given her. But now something wasn’t right and Lunlie was uncomfortable in this situation. She was lost and went to turn to leave, but before she could a man’s hand and a weird smelling cloth slipped over her mouth. Immediately her eye sight went out and she lost her senses. Afraid of what was happening she pulled out her sword and swung. Her arms whipped around knocking her off balance and catching her outfit and cloak. It ripped away at the spot concealing her family symbol. Her body was now shutting off and she was losing consciousness. Her sword was still held tight in her hand when she hit the floor.

I thought it was a nice offer… and it turned out to be a trick. But Kaji… I thought…. He was the same, just offering some thing nice… What if he intended something else too…? I need to find out if he was… or not… or………..

Her mind slowly lost all reason and blood left her body, and she went unconscious on the floor. Her body laid down, her cloak and outfit torn showing her family’s famous symbol, known to any who know anything about thieves, and lastly, her sword in her tightly clenched fist. She was out.

[Peira]

<sup>Foolishness. As if no one would see the movement. Perhaps no one would, but not all were so idily blind. And not so many in these stone cities would so stupidly kill in the shadows of the caves. For in truth that was where they were. There was no sky to illuminate the streets and all the building stood dark, like mountanous sentinels that act as guards to the very civilization that dwelled within them. Life was fairly simple and very good within these walls she had found. For she had departed a few hours ago from Kaji and had already produced a couple of decent ties among a few of the people; including a portly old bartender, young arrogant male theif, and a worried young soldier... so recently drafted. All had been met within the pub and the tavern was a good source of finding information as it was there was word of a battle spreading throughout the blood system of the mountain hold. Messengers and letters travelled freely and abundantly as wives worried about their men, and mothers fretted over the unknown lives of their sons. The region of fire was so wrongly assumed as evil and dark. Sure there were a few who held a strong religion and even turned to a darker nature to acheive such a level of devotion to Pyran. However, the fire god was as anonymous as the old begger that cowered under hood and cloak within the streets. No one really knew his objectives other than the fact that he beleived his people to be supreme. Supposedly Kaji was his right-hand, and she couldn't help but continually toss this thought about in her mind. Why would he keep the secret from her? What did he have to fear, she was of fire... perhaps a rogue, but she wasn't a ruthless murder. She killed when she had reason too and mostly just in defense. Sure she was rebellious and had an independent nature, but that didn't mean she would have treated him any differently. Or would she have? Mind faltered upon unsturdy ground, but soon recovered as she refocused more sternly upon the one called Lunlie. Peira was quite appalled at the woman's choice of action. What had the begger done to her? And she had treated him as if she was higher above him, which she was not. Lunlie, nor Peira had any right to consider themselves above anyone. Atleast the beggers asked... theives and bandits did not --they took without question. Theives were no better than beggers, just more skilled and pushed farther to an edge and need to survive. Like animals of different personalities and instincts. Peira would not feed upon the little lives of those so similiar to herself, though in seperate ways. Overall she highly disaproved of Lunlie's murder. And watching as she dragged the body in a skillful manner, the body was placed just so... the poor fool looked asleep.

Now some might feel rage at seeing such a pointless killing, but Peira was not surprised. Death lurked about for many and several... it skipped from shadow to shadow always stopping to watch and wait. Victims were many, and the type was so vast.

And thus Peira found a lurking forboding overhanging the shadow she crouched within. Perched in the corner ally between the inn and the tavern, it was here that she escaped from the draft of nightfall... that swept through the shallow outer reaches of the cave. The large bronze gaits were not far from here, but the vents were various upon the mountainside. It was here she saw the man of the inn... a burly fellow indeed. Rather lustrious as well... a rapist Peira would guess. The look in his eyes was unmistakable lust as she watched him view the one called Lunlie. Peira would forever know her by face and name. It was strange how often their paths had crossed within the hour.

However, though there was no camradery between theif and bandit, Peira was not completely willing to let all fall to the wind with this other. And even as the lusting man won the black haired woman... Peira crept out of her shadow and into the light. Where she too was met with his appraising eye. Her body was much more evident through her slim, form-fitting atire. The garments only covering the growth of her chest, and the bottom torso. Leather hide wrapping expertly around her shins and heals. Silence as usual was the sound of her walk. Her vivid crimson hair flowed with slight wavish curls as she pulled the strands from her eyes. The silver visiousness within though pools were haunting and malicious and the bow upon her back and quiver full was enough to make anyone atleast slightly cautious. The man was making ideas, just as he had made with Lunlie... but Peira was uninterested. She paused a moment as if to make a point and dominate her power of descision over him. He had no power over her here, in an open public place... where thousands of men stood and would come immediately to the aid of a distressed woman. If he was of any rapist intentions they would be done inside his domain; or any ill intent for that matter. So with a deliberate smile that hinted suttly her knowledge of his meaning, she passed him by, finding satifaction as he watched her leave -- the thorn of her beauty lodged firmly in his eyes. For in truth, the thorns are the prelude to the rose. If you don't like the thorns, don't love the rose.

Traveling past she slipped into the shadows of the opposite ally, where the rock slanted upwards at a climable angle... one of the only flaws of building within cave walls. Slipping slowly and precariously she came to the roof of the cave, where a ledge stood for her step. Room number four, was no where near close, however this was its floor, where the hallway met the ventilation. The steel grating was near impossible to breach, however sound was not so thoroughly quelled. The steady heartbeats of thousands of individual pledged life upon this floor, and hundred more below. Sequencially she would think that Rm 1 would begin near the stairs which she guessed was near the other side of the building (since she couldn't here the exasperated and heavy footsteps of climbing feet) Thus room two, three, and so on would be located further in her direction. In all honesty she didn't know how close Room number four was, but she was too curious to back away. She wanted to see, if Lunlie would once again find herself in trouble... she seemed to do so at every corner - and Peira had been a part of the beginning. In all honesty Peira didn't loathe the other. Though she didn't really like her either, it was more or less a curiousity she couldn't help but delve upon. She wondered how much Kaji thoguht of her, and what he beleived about her. Was she something he would remember? Or was she just another passing pretty face. The simple curiousities of the world were what held her most perplexed.

It was only when she heard a dull gasp and struggled fall, then the clamping and locking of a shutting door in hurried fashion that she began to consider entering. But she wasn't in a hurry. She wasn't noble, nor was she a hereo - if the woman's rescue was desirable and with some sort of reward on her end... Peira probably would not interrupt. Though her curiousity vaguelly demanded she enter the inn. Still, the possibilities were difficult. Being as there was no sky - even the night hours the streets were always lit with the same amount of light, and the fall of the shadows never changed.

She heard sudden noise in the street and shifted her shoulders to look down. A slight skuffle between two drunks from the tavern were engrossed in a ridiculous argument, and spun about their fists like lopsided spin-tops.

In the shifting of her shoulders, her foot slipped on the surface of the cave rock, sending her off balance and nearly plummeting to the floor below - down the sweeping slope of the engraved building. Her fingers latched onto anything; but found the grate. Her fingers closing themselves within the large secure mesh as her sudden prediction of fall was interrupted and her downward momentum was stopped abrubtly. Catching her breath and slowing her raging heart, she found fearfully that the steel grate was not so securep after all. It rattled rather profusely and she curiously inspected the rock around it. Water drained slightly out from the poors of an upper level spring, falling every other set of minutes to strike near the grate lodging. This could have been going on for many days, weeks, months, perhaps even years... and the change and erosion of the stone so slight that none would be able to detect it. Using her bow as a wedge, she slipped it through the crack -- some loose stone tumbled out of hold and cascading with soft echoes to the cave street and floor, but with some persistance encouragement the wedged served well and the bolts that held the grate firm (also rusted) snapped easily with some effort and pressure. Rotating the grate tot eh side, she slipped through silently into the grim of the hallway. Darkness shrouded her finger, as she crouched - closing the open vent behind her, closing off any light that the outer extremities had offered. Without moveing farther in, she observed door four farther down and slipped, without a sound, to its breach. Lending her back to the wall she sat, in a crouched fashion and merely listened. Her curiousity had the best of her currently, but she still had no intention of lending aid. If Lunlie had gotten herself into it, lunlie could get herself out.</sup>

[lunlie]

Her head was spinning and spinning as her eye sight finally came back to her. She slowly started to get up but it hurt to do even that much. She laid there for a time trying to get back with it when memories came back into her head.

“Lunlie, why are you my daughter. Why couldn’t I of been given some one better. I hoped for a son, but I got a daughter. I would give anything to have a son, or even just make you more obedient.” Lunlie’s father paced back and forth while Lunlie laid hog tied on the floor. –How did I get myself into this? I didn’t do anything wrong. - Her father was now kicking the stones around the floor making the dust from the ashen soil in the cave. Some of the dirt drifted into Lunlie’s eyes and mouth. She started to cough. His pacing stop immediately and he looked down at her. “You’re weak girl…” he dropped down on his heels and grabbed her by her chin and pulled her close to his face. “There is no way you are part of this family. You don’t have any will power or strength.” He pushed her away from him and spit next to her face. He then rose up and looked down at her. His eyes locked with hers for only a moment and he left. She laid there for the next hour or so walloping in self-pity. –Why me? Why me? Why not some one else? - She started to cry and cry, but the more she cried the more clear it became. –No one is going to come help me no matter how hard I cry. I have to help myself; I’m the only one who gives a damn. - With that she struggled against the ropes. The rope grew tighter and tighter as she tried to free herself. Eventually the ropes started to cut into her skin. She wanted to cry out but she didn’t. Instead she used her brains and rolled herself over to a sharp rock and started to rub the rope against the sharp edge. With time the rope gave out and she freed herself. She was proud of herself for accomplishing the task. She was praising herself when her father had returned. He had a smile on his face. “So you finally got that you had to get out for yourself. Good. You’ve finally learned the number one rule. YOU ARE THE ONLY ONE WHO CARES ABOUT YOU… IF YOU WANT SOMETHING… YOU MUST GET IT YOURSEFL.”

That night was the night she was graced with the symbol of her family on her back. It was also the night everything got harder. Thinking back on that lesson, Lunlie realized it didn’t matter how good or bad some one’s intentions where. –I work for me, and look out for only me. That is what matters. - With the memories gone she put her palms down on the ground and pushed herself up. Slowly climbing up from where she laid not a few seconds ago; she took in her surroundings. The room, seemed preoccupied and in use, the dead man, who had tired to jump her and put her under deadly chemicals, the smell of blood, both her own and the man’s, and last, her bodies state. She looked to the ground trying to locate her sword; she found it and cleaned it off on the man’s sheets and replacing it. Next she reached behind her and touched her wound. It wasn’t bad, but could use cleaning. Remembering the bowl of water on the table, from her scan of the room, she walked over to it. Ripping of a streak of cloth from the sheets of the bed, she towels the wound. After that she let the used cloth fall to the ground and took off her cloak to inspect it. The tear was big enough for needs of repair. She would have to go find supplies to fix it, but for now she took it off and placed it in her pack. Unfortunately she would have to deal with the rip in the back of her uniform until it was fixed. It was the only garment she carried seeing as she didn’t find it important to own others; that and the fact that she didn’t have the money to pay for some. Finally deciding to leave the room she threw the pack over her shoulder and headed to the door. She totally forgot about the symbol that was still easily seen still. Should any one see her symbol, and they no anything about anything in the fire domain, then they should recognize the symbol. With out thinking about it she opened the door and entered the hall way.

[Peira]

<sup>Peira was no insolent. She could hear the noises, and she could smell the death... it was here. It had come in from the streets and meandered up to this quadrant of the world, where death once more lay residence. Now whom death had claimed was still a mystery -- up until the point when the young theif exitted with a torn cloak and stained sword. Peira shook her head, not seeing nor caring about the symbol on the younger female's back. Sure the woman was only a couple years younger than Peira, herself -- but two years was enough to put a difference between skills. Peira was seasoned and she had seen her fair share of death, and death was like her neighbor. No longer did she look in fear or surprise when the dark, cold shadow's plagued the door step of the deceased. Nolonger, did her mind race with incomprehension at the sight of spilled blood. Peira was no rookie, and as Lunlie exited, it seemed that once again Peira had gone unnoticed; the silence of her attire still clinging with an advantage as it had every year. She planned to meet up with a friend, later on to exchange the garments for something more womanly. It was a naggin sensation, and a crooked smile always came to mind when she imagined herself, all decked out as a proper maiden, appearing before Kaji -- a man whom she had spoken to in a wrathful tone. What would his reaction be when the theivy and fiery rogue appeared in the garments of an outfitted lady. Part of this possible surprise made her even more inclined to appear to Kaji as such the next time they met. In some ways she looked forward to it... the man perplexed her and stirred in her some rememberance's both bad and civil. She found him intrigueing. Whether that is either good or bad, we'll see when the future arrives and the story is played...

Watching the black haired woman began to walk away, Peira echoed down the hallway, in a mixed tone of mockery, sarcasm, and friendly jest... "It seems that our paths always cross in the most diplorable of situations. The irony of it..."

Peira smile was not entirely friendly and some might assume from the looks of it, that it would hold a suttle meaning and would fortell trickery to come. But as she stood, she kept the cross bow at its place upon her spine, and the quiver tucked and closed. She had no honest ill towards Lunlie, perhaps some lingering perplexion at the previous moments within the mountains, but nothing that would linger as a revenging temptation. Peira was cold, sarcastic, and overall stubborn... atleast that was the side of her that many saw nowadays. The maiden, and woman of love and kindness was hidden, guarded by this mask that Peira refused to take from her face.

Currently her hair was tied back by a leather band, but the flaming red locks were no less apparant in the dim light, that filtered through the vent behind her, if Lunlie intended to walk down the stairs and out the front door unnoticed, that was a wish to keep dreaming of... so Peira opened her mouth once more to speak; "Do you think, that man will let you wander out of his clutches?" Peira raised her brows, hands on her hips as she stood from the crouched position by the door, breaking the eye content she chuckled light-heartedly and kindly and honestly motioned towards the ventage, "Come... this is how I came in. Unless you wish to be seen, this may perhaps be the smartest option."

The gesture of kindness was true and a simple act of good human nature that the fiery Peira offered to a fellow life form. However, though she waited a few seconds to see if Lunlie would follow the advice, she decided not to push it. Nor was Peira going to leach herself to the woman and beg to follow or be followed. The woman could make her own descisions, whether they were smart or not... only the consequences would prove intelligence of ignorance. So after a few moments of waiting, the temptatious, lithe, peira turned to the vent, and pushed open the frame, dissapearing out onto the outer ledge, and slowly - with care- began the decent to the ally floor.</sup>

[lunlie]

"Come... this is how I came in. Unless you wish to be seen, this may perhaps be the smartest option." Lunlie let the words roll over her head. –Yes, it seems the smartest thing to do, but not a few days ago this was the same woman who had tried to kill you. I hate this. My mind doesn’t know where, or what do. Grrr… well she is right, I have to go that way, but I will have to be sharp. I don’t trust her, but I can’t tell what or who I trust, my mind id do messed up.- Lunlie tossed her head to the side trying to think. The evidence of her thinking was out in the open. She saw the woman start to descend to the alley floor. –Well it’s is now or never to make up my decision. Lunlie went to where the woman was and started after her. Lunlie watched carefully as to how the woman before her did it. Slowly as Lunlie thought it was time for her to start she slipped out the way the woman had before her.

The whole time Lunlie followed this woman; she couldn’t help but let her mind think on its own. –the woman seems so good at what she does. She seems like she has a lot of experience. I almost want to envy her, but I don’t want this life or the one, from what I’ve seen, leads. I wish to have a safe home, a place where I could live and raise children. To have a husband who could protect me so I don’t have to fight. But I’m not sure what I want; my father has destroyed all of my reason. All I know is what he trained me to do. - With out Lunlie knowing it she left her guard down and sighed in frustration, making it seem like she was having a hard time following the woman. –I wish I could find some one who would take the time to help me. My mind is unstable. - Lunlie’s eyes opened again and she continued down to the alley after the woman. –It would be nice if I could even make peace with this woman. But how, I don’t want to offend her or make myself seem weak. - Lunlie kept debating in her head. –Well, I’ll have to put my pride aside for the time being.

Lunlie looked down to the woman still following her movements and seeking out her eyes. Lunlie wanted her eyes to convey her honesty and show she didn’t mean anything Lunlie didn’t want her to think. She could not locate her eyes though, so she would have to speak and hope it came out the way she wanted. “I know we are not on the best of terms, and I wish I could have met you on different terms. It was my foolish mistake to assume you knew the code my father had taught me.” Lunlie’s voice was solid until now, she had meant the last ones, but the ones she was about to say was more important and revealed things about her she had wanted to keep secret and locked away. “I assumed though because the only being I’ve ever known was my father and he taught me everything I know. I have been spending the recent days, my first days a freedom from him, and finding almost everything he taught me is wrong. I’m even questioning myself now.” Her voice went solid again. “I know this may seem like a far out request and I don’t expect you to even remotely say yes, but I’m not doing good on my own. Is there any chance, any that I might be able to travel with you for a time? Just until I find out what is wrong from right and get my mind a little more solid.”

Lunlie knew that this was way out there and there wasn’t a chance at all she was going to say yes, but for Lunlie’s sake, she had to figure this world out before she did something so wrong it cost her life.

o.o.c.- If you can't tell yet, Lunlie is messed up in the head... lol

[Peira that got kicked off]

<sup>Peira reached the floor before the Lunlie did. And of course she was aware that the woman had chosen to follow due to the sounds. And so when both her leather soles were fastened to the flat solid ground, th red head had a descision, walk on... leave Lunlie, or wait for her to reach the earth as well. Of course one weighed more heavily than the other, but Peira decided to wait, just to make sure that she got down safetly. Eyes curiously looked around the corner to see the husky bouncer of a man sitting lazily on the inn steps -- like a spider in its web. Pathetic. Peira thought to herself just as Lunlie reached the ground.

Turning to look at the young woman, Peira opened her mouth to speak farewell, but the words never came... for Lunlie had begun to speak. And in honesty, that was probably best, Peira's words would not have been the kindest or the most sincere. But tossing them away she formed a new reply to Lunlie's request.

First she had to contemplate:

She's confused, unstable... she could be dangerous. Perhaps not herself, but the unsteady state of her mind. If she follows, whose to say I will not be noticed. I do not want to be see. And I do not want to grow attached, just the same as I do not want to be disgusted, or tempted to even remotely be. I have no ill tidings with this woman, perhaps frustration, but...

I suppose I can let her follow, but I must be ready to drop her at any moment, I must not become attached. I must not.

Her story? It sounds sad yes, but if I had a peice of silver for every time someone gave me their sap story, I would be rich.

It can't possibly hurt, and she seems sincere. If things turn into trickery or go south, I will merely abandon ship - as simple as that.

Or not.

Peira dear, you're growing soft.

The mask, that made her, scowled with mockery and sarcasm. Her creation, what she had become, was trying to make a point.

Remember the last time that you allowed soft words to touch you? Remember...? You must be more cautious than that.

I will be, but no harm can come of this.

So you say...

The words stung her soul, harshly with truth. She hadn't trusted anyone for a long time, and allowing Lunlie to tag along would only allow the bandit to learn about her. Perhaps the story was like a cover, just another lie. Just because Peira did not hold any wish for revenge, Lunlie may feel differently. Afterall Peira had unleashed her arrow with intent to harm, even kill. What if Lunlie was out for revenge -- like an actor; just playing a part for the greater of the stories climax and intent.

But Peira decided to stay true to her first decsision.

"Alright. I don't have much to go to, but there are a few things that I need to settle. After that, I'm still undecided... may go abroad, may stay local within the mountain. All depends how the wind blows." she said with a smile.

The smile itself was not entirely true, it was forced. Like a gesture that must be done out of politeness, but one that you really don't truly feel within your heart -- it's not sincere. However, it was kind enough with a sharp edge of cautiousness and distrust. There was a reasoning behind everything; the thing that seperated the differences were the intentions.

After her comment and answer to Lunlie's question the fair rogue maid walked out from the shadows and mingled herself back into the crowd, but... before she blended entirely she turned back to Lunlie with a smile that held a true emotion, humor: "You really shouldn't kill every living soul that might offend you. You'll make enough enemies as it by simply breathing."

She said the words with a smile, that was truly a sarcastic batch of humor, meant to lighten the mood. If it did or didn't... well that was for Lunlie to decide. The meaning behind the phrase was simply this; Peira was referring to the poor pauper, that had done nothing more, than begged from the wrong person.

But Peira still had one last thing to say; which she added to the end of her last comment, "No matter what you do, or where you do it... someone always sees." she paused to let the words soak, "I'm going to see an old friend, Provis. He owns a tavern and inn where we can stay. He's a good sort of fellow, as long as you don't kill his customers." Again she added humor, as as her laugh died off she cleared her throat and turned back into the crowd.

Already she started to regret her descision, what was she thinking? How could she possibly benefit from this symbiotic relationship? She shrugged off the masking questions and refocused on the careful placement of her feet, and the position of her new charge.</sup>

[lunlie]

Lunlie listened as she let the words of woman sink in. And she let the notice of fake smiles sink in. This woman wasn’t doing this out a pure sense of heart. And Lunlie saw regret in her decision. Lunlie didn’t want to be a burden on this woman. As much as Lunlie knew she wanted to figure things out, she know knew it would take time on her own to work it out. It was her head that was in trouble and needed the fixing. She could learn to copy people, but no matter what she would do, her own thought are her own. She thought hard for a moment when the woman went into the crowd.

"You really shouldn't kill every living soul that might offend you. You'll make enough enemies as it by simply breathing."

Lunlie decided it was a good idea to follow her words. She didn’t’ want enemies, she had not days before gotten rid of her worst one; her dad. Now it was up to Lunlie. She walked up to the crowd of people and looked toward the woman, trying to catch her eyes. She wanted to get the point across with out having to say a word. –I know this might be weird after what I just had gone through asking you to help me, but I’ve realized the problem is my own and I don’t want to share it. I want to work this out on my own so no one gets hurt or I do some how. I thank you for the assistance you have given me so far, but my training can get me out of here safe and from there I will start to learn. Thanks again, and may your travels bring you to where you wish. Good-bye.-

A man passed in front of Lunlie and she was gone from the woman’s sights. Lunlie had used a trick she had learned when she was a kid to get away in the grass from her father; her freedom only lasted a short time but it was enough for her. She had used the man as a shield and then his over passing shadow and a trick of light to fake turning invisible. From there she went long gone in the crowd. Within seconds she had reached the outskirts of the town; her traveling tricks learn from when she was young.

She stopped on the roof of a building before completely leaving the town. She closed her eyes and centered herself within. Lunlie was looked deep inside herself, and it seemed the world stopped. Her thoughts swirled in a wild whirl wind, tossing over menial things; then one big problem once her mind was controlled. What am I to do, and where am I to go. Lunlie was so uncertain of her future, but she decided something right at that moment. She was in control of her future and she wouldn’t let another person try to take that away. That every foot she placed would be her own choice and her own cause behind them.

Lunlie stood and looked back at the city from the roof; the sun setting in front of her. The city looked dark from this point of view, but it was more of a symbol to Lunlie. It showed her that this wasn’t where she was supposed to be at the time; she looked out into the setting sun now. Where the sun was and light shown was where she was supposed to be. She looked out over the dust desert to where the soft meadows of unclaimed territory were. The dust desert would be a hard road to travel to get where Lunlie wanted, but it was ok with Lunlie. She didn’t want to go the easy way; nothing was learned that way.

She jumped from the roof and started out to where she hoped some day her home would be. To where she was going to settle and figure her life out. Lunlie wanted to run but she didn’t. She was going to take things slow and easy. The road ahead was hard enough with out jumping head first into it. As she walked her head tossed side to side while she whistled a tune she had heard in the city.

[Blaze]

ooc: don't you like each other anymore? ... anyway... should my message come here for you Peira?

[Blaze]

A young man appearing in his late twenties traveled the streets cloaked in night. Torches flickered in the streets while a candle or two in welcoming windows lit the back allies almost eerily though they were a comfort to those who lived with fire in their hearts. It was an unusually hot night in the city; a storm was brewing outside Feuer-Bohrung and the sleeping volcano felt its effects. There was no danger of burning the city’s citizens however; the change was as though the thunder storm would come to the entire city.

Casually, the handsome man strolled into a small inn with the smile of a friend upon his face. He entered still wearing his uniform and the letter in a small tan satchel by his hip. The Lieutenant however was not in proper form; his standard jacket draped over his shoulder with his light hand holding it there and the black undershirt, which was there for a bit more protection, displayed its simple design and his muscular contours. An old innkeeper greeted him exuberantly.

Hey! It’s my boy Van! How you doing, kid?

Just fine, Pops. It was some eventful day. Fatigue found its way into his strong voice, but the soldier remained as alert as ever.

That’s good. Can I get you the usual? The elderly man, known as Pops by most, began his routine by placing a plain glass on the counter. He went to the cooler when the young, loyal man found time to answer.

No thank you, but still he sat down at the bar anyway. Ignoring the glass and usual ruckus, Lieutenant Vantor went straight to business. I am searching for a young woman who said she would be staying in one of the local inns.

He leaned in to keep the matter a bit more concealed. The fire warrior did not think it necessary for all to hear.

Her name’s Peira.

ooc: sorry... I was grounded for a day... I need to ask Promise about if she has a name for the city or if I get to name it... it's about time a man enters this thread to defend man-kind... haha ;D

[Peira]

<sup>Peira was sitting at a table in the back. She was there with a friend of hers, an old accomplish from her old trade. The man was her childhood companion--also gone rogue--nothing more, but it had been years since they had seen one another and Peira couldn't help but linger nearby to chat.

She had rented her room for the next couple of nights, and had already been up there to seat herself within a cold bath of rose scented oils and honey water. However, the grandest change about her was the change in attire. She had abandoned the theiving clothes for something more feminine--something more captivating and openly tempting. Sure enough the tight leather breast covering and skirt were enough to get any man to drool upon himself, but she was out for something a little more... lady like. Thus she "borrowed" a stunning crimson colored silk garment. The upper portion of it did not cover her shoulders, but was merely supported by the soft flesh of her biceps. The sleeves fell away when the hem past her elbow and all that was left was a bleeding hem that frayed into an elegant whisp, down to her very finger tips.

The bodice clung to her thin, curvacious frame with flattering appeal, and her small waist was snug and firmly cradled by the side hemline, but it was all for nothing when just past her hip the hem split. This created a slice within the frabric all the way from her upper thigh down to the base of the dressline. It showed her beautifully coppered skin and the emenant glow that it gave off within the candlelight.

She had pulled her hair down from it's braid, so it also hung in radiant crimson waves of dark blood red that fell down to her shoulders. Her brilliant silver eyes peirced through the crowded room, catching the eye of several young men. Yet her smirk dispelled them all -- for they knew well the expression of a venomous flower.

Her friend, Da'mon, took a sip from his draining ale can, he wore the uniform of a soldier. He had turned his life around. That was a step that Peira still ahd to take... though she wasn't particularly interested in that "plan B" just yet. This was the friend she had planned to meet at the inn... but already she could see the iminant and vast evolution that his personality had undertaken. He was no longer quite the same sarcastic, humorous, troublemaker that she had come to adore company with. No doubt, he was still interesting to talk to, but she found her eyes wandering about during some of his monotonous stories about warfare and the soldiers play. Time was up.

He was still in one of his stories when she turned back to face him, a polite but serious smile on her face.
"Da'mon, it was nice talking to you. Do take care. I'm going to go to the bar and grab a drink, then I think I'll head up to my room."

Da'mon looked at her longingly. And Peira knew that his personality and interests were not the only things that had changed. She met his gaze with her own stare of dissaproval, but didn't try to interrupt him as he opened his lips to speak.
"Peira, I could join you keep you company..."

The words were far from innocent, and as she felt his hand slowly find the small of her back, she knew what he was implying. Though she dressed like a whore to some extent, that didn't mean she was that easy.

Politely, but seriously she brushed his hand away and shook her head. The words she spoke were short, breif, and a little rank with venom. It was painfully evident that she had no interest. Peira, the heartbreaker. It wasn't one of her personalities for nothing.
"Goodbye, Da'mon. I'll see you about."

Her smile faded into a look of severe dissaproval and dissapointment before she promptly stood and headed for the bar top. Her knee high, leather, boots made barely a sound on the hard wood floors--as usual.

Sliding her slim form, she tossed a dangerous flirtatious grin towards a young man beside her who had caught a glimpse of her alluring physical proportions. She found him staring, and this was a turn-off. But her smirk didn't fade and she leaned in gently, towards his ear. Her lips whispering softly... "Shake you head. Your eyes are stuck."

HEr smile only increased as she watched him snap out of his coma and retreat back to his table. Some of his buddies were blatently laughing at the burning rejection their comrade had just been delt. Peira refocused on the bar man, and waved her hand as her silver eyes strained for his. She was ready to be served her drink. AS she waited she let loose a gentle sigh and tapped her fingers on the tabletop.

Like I've said...

Peira is a touch bi-polar.</sup>

[Blaze]

Even if the lieutenant had been in conversation, his ears were trained to pick up information in discreet manners so that practically none could notice he had been eave dropping upon the entire room. This, he figured, was the reason for his quick promotions through the ranks to lieutenant and one of Lord Kaji’s more trusted soldiers. Vantor proved to be a quick study and a reliable source of information.

Listening to the more or less common-place conversations amongst the friends in the inn in between replying to the old man’s greetings, the soldier’s ears twitched at the name Peira coming from approximately diagonally behind him. Well, at least I know I found her. However the young man did not turn to be nosey to her personal conversation between her and her ‘friend’; he waited for the woman to approach the bar and gestured to Pops who naturally responded with glass and rag in hand. The old innkeeper asked in welcoming tones, “What can I get for you milady?”

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Vantor shifted his weight to look at the woman in full view with his right elbow on the counter. His breathe taken away by surprise. The woman who Fire Lord Kaji had described as wearing a tight thievish uniform fit to her form he now saw wearing a gorgeous crimson dress which the young soldier thought suited her very well. Casually, Vantor turned his shoulder to drape his jacket over the bar stool next to him. With his attention back upon the woman in red, the man stood with most of his weight leaning on the counter.

Lady Peira I presume.

His voice had shifted from that of a friend to the proper business tone only with a benign twist about it so he would not automatically frighten the woman back to her other company apparently of the military. Lieutenant Vantor smiled genuinely to encourage an open mind from her and open conversation between the two people of fire.

[Peira]

<sup>Peira finally saw the barman turn his attention to her. Smiling thankfully, she welcomed him with a warm alluring look of grace and poise before answering his expected question. Her eyes wandered a moment up into the ale racks until she spotted her drink of choice. A sturdy non-alcoholic tonic that had a spark and kick in every sip. It was just as potent as any whiskey but it didn't have the cumbersome after effects that ale had when one drowned themselves in the drink.

"A Virgin Sammi, please." she ordered politely as her eyes wandered down to her fingertips--playing with one of the newly cleaned fingernails.

Now Peira wasn't out to drink away her pains. Hell, the only thing she was trying to forget was her love's betrayal. But she already had a remedie for that... her mask was well fit and still strong since the day she had made it. Her mind suddenly switched gears and her inner eyes glared coldly at the memory of Kaji. The flirtacious man that had broken her calm and breached her self sanctuary. He'd made her second guess herself, and tossed her emotions into a blender of confusion. She had sworn to herself never to let the maiden free, for it was too dangerous for that frail little girl to wander about the world of men and love. But Kaji had coaxed her out... her conscience shuddered at the charm she knew he possessed. She had let his poisonous words soak into her skin, and she now warned herself to be more careful.

"Blah... Peira... blah blah."

Her name suddenly caught her attention and snapped her from her daze. She looked up slightly startled as the kind old bartender laid down her drink with a friendly smiled and meandered down the bench to the other customers. Within the second, her head also looked quickly in the direction her voice had come from.

"Hmmm... oh, yes... I am Peira..." Her voice was a little unstable and her confidence had fled within her moment of self confrontation. Quickly she took a large swig of the stiff drink and swallowed the mouthful with a satisfying grimace. Quickly she calmed her heart and fixed her complexion. Replaced the look of surprise with a smirk of the same venomous python that had stalked this jungle just a moment ago. Quickly she added, "... you've presumed correctly. What can I do for one of Kaji's?"
The voice was once again the confident expression of a young vixen who was not completely compliant with common law. The fiery Peira was in a good mood, and when surrounded by other people she didn't really fear being murdered or harmed in a public place. Who would dare?

She sipped her sammi and regarded him with a shallow silver eye. She let her ominous pools bask within his gaze and her pride slowly rebuilt itself into the sturdy protective wall. Flashing her alluring looks around, she tilted her hips to sit more comfortable upon the chair. Crossing her legs, she allowed the thigh high trim to slide off of her flesh and expose the soft copper skin of her upper hip. Modest? Not really.</sup>

[Blaze]

The observant soldier watched and listened carefully as the alluring woman confirmed his presumption. He remained alert for any signs of a lie to trick the messenger to pass the letter to the wrong person. His brown eyes and tanned ears noticed nothing off balance. Only the presence of the soldier Da'mon and his rough group created a sense of caution in the young lieutenant. Vantor had seen this man once before in the training fields behind the military barracks, but the fact he was not sure of this soldier’s place in Fire’s military worried him. Lieutenant Vantor tended to be very wary around any strange face. Peira was no exception.

Van stayed on guard with her considering her exterior appearance. As the vixen flaunted her remarkable looks around, the lieutenant swallowed hard and took a deep breath while reminding himself of his lovely wife awaiting him at their small home just few blocks away. In addition, he reminded himself also of the business he was on; he was not here for pleasure.

Quickly the young man regained the composure which had been figurative and literally beaten into his person and he shifted his torso to retrieve the letter from the useful satchel on his hip. With his fair right hand – Van worked mainly behind the scenes in war – he presented Peira with his lord’s letter. To stick with the proper procedure, he gave the parchment to her with the usual phrase, “A message from the Lord of Fire.”

Lady Peira,

First of all business, I must apologize for my behavior this morning. It was not right for me to conceal my proper Pyran-gifted title from you. However, I hope you understand I did it so you would not feel obliged to follow me to the city. I wished for you to come with me of your own choice and I am glad you did. In addition, I hope you can accept this apology and are not too mad at me for I have a favor to ask of you.

In a few weeks, I am to meet with another leader to discuss certain matters. I would be very grateful if you would join me for this peaceful conference. My reason is I believe your skills would be very useful to ensure the passive atmosphere of the discussion. I hope you accept my invitation to join me. Unfortunately, I cannot give you any more details at the current time.

Most times, I can be found in my military chambers. Lieutenant Vantor will escort you in the morning or at a later time convenient for you if you decide to accept.

Kaji Hito

The lieutenant stood straight and formal waiting for her to read the message. Once she seemed to be finished with his correspondence, the man replied as he was directed.

I will be here in the morning to allow you the chance to think it over and decide.

With a pause, he realized he had not yet introduced himself to the young lady. Stiffening quickly, he fumbled to apologize for his incompetence until an appropriate tone escaped his lips.

Lieutenant Vantor at your service.

Automatic speed brought his right hand into a uniform salute. Standing board straight with his fingertips meeting his temple and his mind in a buzz sorting through his recent stupidity, Van remained in proper form awaiting the beautiful Peira’s reply.

ooc: I sent you a pm.

[Peira]

<sup>Peira took the letter with a flirtatious wave of her hand. Indeed she was bi-polar. She just couldn’t help it… her mood swung this way and that to a different beat every time. She never danced the same pattern twice. However, as soon as she took the piece of parchment her demeanor changed. Her metamorphosis left her in a more serious state as she listened to the man state who it was from. Kaji, aye…? She thought to herself as she quickly unrolled the parchment. Her face had a look of disapproval and annoyance. The man was definitely irritating in person, and she wondered how he would be in a written form. With and inward sigh she knew this was the moment; she had both been looking forward to… and also not so much. Kaji was a very polite and formal man, but he was also a little bit over confident that both intimidated and annoyed the lady Peira. Shifting to a more comfortable position on her seat, she ceased trying to make the officer uncomfortable and did not flaunt her lady-like appearance as she read.
She chuckled and a small smile came to her face as she read his apology. He had better apologize. Here she had thought she was dealing with some normal male, when in truth she was dealing with the damn lord of fire. That was toying with hard times and dangerous dice, but she quickly read on with a look of puzzlement. What could she possibly be useful for… she was little more than a common thief—a good one, yes, but that wasn’t the point. All right… she would come.

Refolding the paper, she smiled tauntingly at the young officer as she tucked the parchment into her collar. So what if he was uncomfortable she hadn’t created this masking personality for nothing. Her flirtatious and whorish temperament was all a part of her rebellious and fiery attitude. Her uneasiness was locked within the maiden, but occasionally it surfaced when she was around Hito—another thing that made her loathe the man.

Sliding from her stool, her padded feet—sheathed by the same thievish boots she always wore with her normal garb—met the floor with naught a sound, and she couldn’t help but increase her mocking smile when she saw the messenger gave his offer of escort and then went rigid with formality. Oh this was too much, Kaji was being so formal to a woman who had barely ever lived within civilized life such as this. She almost wanted to begin to laugh as the man saluted her after giving his name and rank. However, she couldn’t help but break her composure when he uttered the words: “… at your service.” With a suppressed chuckle she turned from him with a wave of her hand. ”Good night, lieutenant.”

Walking away with a sway of her hips she moved to the stairs and ignored the longingly look that Da’mon passed her way. AS she ascended the stairs she let her smile run itself wild as she began to ponder over her travel plans. She had purposefully forgotten to let Vantor know that he need not come in the morning. She would already be gone. However, she would let him squirm the next day when she did not descend the stairs to meet him. If she was lucky, perhaps she could watch his reaction from a safe little niche. It was definite that she would not look at all like she did now, when she left for the Lord of Fire’s personal domain. However, she doubted she would lag behind to watch. She had every intention of dropping in on Kaji as early as she could—perhaps she could begin the day with a good start. Startling the elusive, confident, and unnaturally calm man… would really jump-start a good day</sup>

[chaoskeeper]

In what seemed like mere moments, the night-bred assassin emerged from the shadows with comrades in hand. Slowing down to make a more gentle landing back into the living realm, Xander Shade stopped to let his momentary charges down back upon their very own two feet… well at least Storm was released back onto her feet with ‘Keria’ upon her shoulders. Casually he stood straight and peered around to confirm a proper landing.

Perfect.

Gazing around his slender form, his trademark smirk slinked across his face. They had landed right where he had planned. The alley was small and the neighborhood quiet except for a quaint inn and bar to their left. Candles lighting the condensed area created a comfortable and homey atmosphere for the killer unbeknownst to those around him. Shadows danced around the group, in corners, and upon the walls. Both greeting and quivering, the darkness knew its master and welcomed him silently with fear. It was a large kingdom this prince of darkness and pain ruled and nighttime in the fire realm made him all the more welcome with its flames and plays on shadows.

Satisfied, Xander turned back to Storm with his strong arms extended. With a certain demanding twist in his voice, he addressed the woman and her cargo.

I will take her now. You no longer need that burden in your arms.

Gracefully he shifted his body lower to drape the unconscious form over his right shoulder. She would be used as an attempt to conceal his marked arm from peering eyes within the fire inn. He for one was thirsty; perhaps the fiery woman could use one as well.

Come on. Let’s get a drink.

With not even a blink or recognition of the strangeness walking into a public place with an unconscious woman may present, Xander turned and entered the plain open doorway of the simple tavern. It was as if he belonged and technically he did. In this part of the world, he was a spy and assassin for the Fire Lord and none other. Of course, the Lord of Fire never used his skills because he did not even meet the tall man however none of Fire’s citizens knew that either. With an open approach almost completely contrary to the stereotypical spy image, Shade advanced to the bar counter. A few proud strides brought him to the marble countertop.

Give me the usual hard liquor, Pops. And let the lady choose what she likes.

Flamboyantly, the killer showed his harsh attitude while placing two gold coins upon the counter and motioned to Storm.

And if you could, I’d like a couple strips of smoked beef as well. Keep the change.

Glancing at Jinx’s comatose figure on his shoulder, Xander automatically answered an expected question for the old man.

Just another job.

The bar man casually retrieved the drink for the tall man and as usual awaited Storm’s order from the menu. Xander gestured for her to join him at the bar inviting her to his left side so he could see her. With Storm at his side, his smooth baritone voice took on a more concealing volume meant for only his fiery female friend. He motioned to the young lieutenant talking with a beautiful woman in a crimson dress.

See that man over there? He will be able to get you to where you need to be. That lieutenant can help you meet Fire Lord Hito and then you can easily accomplish your dream to become military. I mean you definitely have the skills for it especially if that dog was only a warm-up for you.

A genuine smile appeared upon his sleek façade. He could not help but like this girl. Xander Shade’s darker side did not understand, but at the moment he did not care. His mission was soon to be completed.

This should be easy from now on.

Soon the old man behind the bar appeared again from behind a curtain with the ordered beef strips and placed them by Xander’s arm. With a quick moment to just breathe, Shade slid the smoked meat into the plain pouch on his leg. An unusual kind tone took control his commonly callous voice box.

Do you think you will be alright?

Once I know that, I need to go.

[dragonfire]

Storm's weird sensation passed. She still kept her eyes closed tightly and did not release her breath until the man who had scooped her and Keria up placed her softly on the street of their new location. She opened her mouth and gasped for air; holding her breath was not something she had to to everyday. A few coughs escaped her then she uncuped her hand from around Keria's mouth and checked to make sure she was still alive, that the sudden lack of oxygen did not stop her heart cold. Assuming Keria was fine, she now took notice to her new surrounding, looking quite familiar, the streets were empty and quiet except for a lively pub she noticed a little ways off.

The man now stood in front of her, obviously wanting his catch, or hostage, but whatever he was going to do with Keria she was not sure and it probably was not good. Storm stood over him now with a frown on her face, her eyes narrowed and her cheeks flushed. Either he is being a gentleman or he does not trust me with his "cargo". I neither know his name or his intentions. He is probably using me, than he will leave and never come for me, and I will be left to feel an idiot. What can I do? I don't want to hurt him anymore, I have done that enough today. She smiled weekly and as she did he asked her if she wanted a drink. Her eyes lit up and she took his offer when she had the chance. "I would like that a lot, especially after today." Her facial expression changed once again, back to a solemn tone.

Walking toward the pub was strange. The candles of the city, which she now recognized as Feuer-Bohrung, cast many shadows upon the walls, dancing upon and silhouetting many stationary items beside the streets. She moved closer to her male companion without totally realizing she did. The dark figures startled her a bit and she remembered what he had said about them earlier. Are they alive? Or do they just appear so to him? Storm thought with wonder then she realized she never really knew what his powers were or even if he had any. I wonder if he is even of fire? Her expression remained flat as she entered the pub by his side. As soon as they reached the bar she placed her warm hands onto the cold marble counter and looked around curiously and let her companion carry out his short conversation with the bar tender. She moved away to look around to see if she noticed any faces that she could remember. Nobody.

Turning to face the bar tender she carefully chose her favorite drink off of the menu. " I will have a Wormwood Ale, the best please. " She continued to glance around and was handed her drink quickly. Finally she met her fellow travelers gaze and walked up to the left side of him, as he had gestured for her to do. She followed his voice to a pair of people talking, a rather pretty woman and a lieutenant of the Fire Army. She smiled and laughed at his complement that he gave and spoke with a touch of humor still in her voice. "Thank-you, you did not have to do this for me, I probably could have managed one way or the other. I should be fine. I can take good care of myself. He is leaving. Will I ever see you again?" She looked at him with fire in her orange eyes directly into his silver orbs and awaited the lieutenant anxious to speak with him but still awaiting the response of the man she now looked at.

[hellsdaughter]

Weather it be that her body didn’t like the dark traveling it had just gone through, or the fact that her body didn’t respond well to amnesia, possibly both, Jinx’s body went into a fit. Her whole body started to shake, drips of blood ran from her mouth as her lungs closed up and fits of coughs escaped her mouth. Her stomach started to heave, and not having any control over her muscles for the amnesia had shut down basic body functions, which was now the muscle reflex to hold her stomach, vomit ran out of her mouth. With the blood and vomit he lungs cried out for air. High squealing gasped left her throat. These where just the physical effects; inside her head there was a storm going on too.

Being trained spy she had been forced to endure many forms of torture and other actions of captivity to coaxes information from her. Amnesia treatment was one. Jinx had never built up a resistance to the stuff, but she did find out it had horrible effects on her, one was the bringing of not to found memories in her dreams. These dreams of hers would trigger her sleeping body to try to fight back against her dream if the dream got bad enough.

“Speak you low life spy!” Crack the whip, lacing down on her back hard. “Speak or I’ll keep going!” Jinx just held her mouth closed and held her eyes closed firm. “Fine you filthy bitch, don’t tell me your mission and commander. You shall pay with a scar you’ll never rid yourself of.” With that the whip screamed in the air as the whip came down so hard it ripped her cheek, chin, down to her back. Jinx screamed out in pain. Tears left her eyes and she fell to the ground, dirt getting in her long gash. “You filthy bastard, I hope you burn in hell.” He laughed, at her. Then he walked up behind her grabbed her hair forcing her to arch her back and her neck, making the cut on her neck open more and more. She screamed louder. “Just tell me who sent you and why you’re here darling. Then I’ll heal you up, and maybe I keep you as a pet. You are quite beautiful. You’d make a good whore.” Jinx’s eyes went wide. She’d never let herself be kept by a man, especially one like him. With out knowing what she was doing, she sent a vibe of air under them sending both of them high into the air. Panicking the man let go and tried to get to the ground. Landing on her feet once the gust was gone she sent another whip of wind to the ropes tying her hands. The ropes ripped immediately and feel to the ground. Looking down to the ground at the man who lay on the ground, because he was unable to land on his feet, she plotted evil revenge. Anger rushing through Jinx she pointed with one arm down at the man. Instantly wind rushed at him, throwing him back to the prison cell wall.

Hearing the commotion from the cell, the guards standing watch ran in. Instantly they grabbed onto Jinx and pinned her against the wall, she tried to fight back. All she wanted was to get back at the man, to rip him into a million pieces, but the strong arms held her firm against the wall. All she could do was ship her arms around at the fire guard and send small wind gasps at them. “You bastards let me go. Let me take my vengeance on that man, let me rip the flesh from his bones.”

While the dream when on she, like in the dream, tried to struggle against the bindings the dark man had used on her. Small whips of nasty wind were sent from her body. Only getting madder in her dream, and wishing the death of the man more and more, she had to of became a handful to hold and keep unnoticed. If her dream got worse, so would her body's struggling.

[Blaze]

The young man ordered and trained to stay in form did so in proper manners. However that only stayed for a moment in time. He faithfully kept his form until he witnessed the woman from whom he had expected a reply turned away. Then his body escaped its fined pose when her, what seemed, light-hearted bid good night reached his acute ears. His body slumped slightly; he stepped forward and lowered his hand to a more confused position. With a face contorted in confusion, his eyes looked on as the lady slipped away to the stairs.

Wa... wait. Milady? A response? Lady Peira?

Eyes watching and head following the fair figure, Lieutenant Vantor surveyed as an explanation stole away with the beautiful woman. Just great, he thought in sarcasm realizing he would have to come back no matter what now.

Turning in disappointment, the young soldier returned to the bar. With attention on his fairly built hands, Van addressed the old inn keeper once again; however this time, fatigue and frustration plagued his fine tenor voice along with a sigh.

You know what, Pops...

You’ve changed your mind, then?

Yes. But get me the hard house whiskey instead.

The old bar tender continued the conversation as he fetched the drink for his young friend.

Hard day?

Always... but especially today.

Pops chuckled as the young man attempted to obviously calm his frantic mind. Vantor went to rubbing his face and neck while finding a stool nearest his tired body. He sat with a thud. Looking to the corner, the young lieutenant found Da’mon’s group laughing amongst themselves. Probably at the rejection I too was tossed. Grimacing slightly, the man watched as the scene persisted before him. Low ranked soldiers. The thought held both distaste and jealously. Soon the sound of an elderly man’s voice interrupted his wonderings.

But you knew what you were getting yourself into when you serve directly under...

Yes, yes. I know. I lost track of the number of times you told me this. I know, yet it still remains an honor some of these men might never know.

Vantor motioned towards the men in the corner with a sly smile. His old friend looked in the direction and chuckled with a pleasant smile accompanying, Of course. Soon, he placed the requested drink upon the counter in front on the man who quickly took it. A long sigh followed the extensive swig which pursued. With a calming sigh, Lieutenant Vantor proceeded to thank his friend for his hospitality when he was interrupted by a commotion off to the side.

He had not noticed the entrance of a couple and their burden due to his preoccupation with the lady Peira until then and of course frenzied gasps would not go unnoticed in a reasonably passive tavern. His young mind also cursed himself for that stupidity as well. This was not his night. Vantor turned with both questioning and accusing looks for the small group. The tall man looked recognizable to a point – he had seen him before prowling the corners and back alleys of the city while his companion did not seem familiar however she appeared of fire. However, the unconscious woman was not remembered in the least or even looked to be of fire realm nationality.

What’s going on here? he demanded as a soldier should.

ooc: sorry for the weak reply... it's a weird situation in the thread and in life right now... later ;D

[chaoskeeper]

The planning assassin listened carefully for any threat directed towards himself or his new-found companion in addition to paying special subtle attention to the young military man. He could not help but internally laugh at his current situation. Obviously these were not the type of missions or girls the lieutenant was used to dealing with daily. A mental eye kept close watch on all the men in the pub. Xander could not afford to allow himself be surprised now; being so near the accomplishment of his given mission, the hired killer was not going to allow any to foil his plans now.

Turning his attention back to the fiery woman from the wastes, his softer side noticed his presence seemed to give Storm a sort of comfort, especially in the dark alley amongst the shadows. I’m sure if she knew who I am, she would not be sticking so near me. But for the moment, Shade did not mind her relatively gentle company; in fact, he enjoyed it. He smiled once again as he watched the lady order her drink. His human half would not mind staying with her while the darker side within him reminds Xander of shadows of his job and the danger he is required to throw himself back into soon.

Whatever, he argued with himself. She can handle herself just fine.

But you would have to be there to protect from certain others things. Don’t make me remind you, his feit half threatened.

Taking in a large exasperated sigh, the slender man conceded and pushed the thought aside. It just would never work out right. As she approached him, he dropped the tired countenance and listened to her unexpected thank you. For a moment, the calm exterior fell as a confused cock of the head took control for the moment. She seemed to just be reading his mind there for an instant confirming his thoughts that she could very well take care of herself. Feeling he had to respond to the comment, Xander Shade quickly regained a playful façade and shifted his body to a more comfortable position.

Oh come on. I couldn’t just leave you in the wastelands like that. What do you really take me for? A heartless killer?

He realized the irony in his statement, but he wanted to leave her on a good note for reasons unbeknownst to even him. Xander hoped to understand these feelings better. Perhaps once the existing assignment was fulfilled. Just then her next question hit home. What is she? A psychic? The killer’s mind could not understand how most her conversation seemed to be a reply for what was in his mind.

Xander Shade was just about to answer Storm’s question when he suddenly felt Jinx’s body come into convulsions. In but a moments time, he laid ‘Keria’ upon the floor. He watched as her body gasped for air. The assassin had never seen such a reaction to his drugs; usually he would not care an inkling of the fate of his victims, but this one was not meant death just yet. With persistent speed and a continuous flow of movement, the assassin worked to keep her… alive. Strong arms twisted the unconscious form around on the floor to remove the needles from the back of her knees and from her pressure point bringing tiny trickles of blood to her flesh. To counteract the seizure he gave her just another dose of the drug to calm her body. Replacing the long throwing needles back into his sack, he also retrieved a thick cloth from the small pack. With most the vomit already on the floor and some running down his back, Xander tied the fabric around her face just to cover her nose and mouth. Here he prepared her for another hasty journey through the shadows.

Within these hectic moments, he heard behind him the soldier sent for he presumed that woman in the crimson dress demanding an explanation.

Just another job, lieutenant, was once more his response.

Gathering up his prize from the floor, he again threw her over his shoulder. With not a minute to spare, Xander pulled Storm closer with his fairly clean left hand. He quickly guided her head to his and stole one last kiss – this one upon her forehead.

Quickly he turned to leave at a run, but not before a light-hearted bid goodbye to the storm of a woman now behind him.

‘Til next time. Later.

His swift movements would not allow any to follow him from the small bar. Shade of shadows jetted down the alley part ways before veering into a side passage and automatically back into his world of darkness. The cloth covering Jinx’s airways would protect her from the shadows’ hungry grasp.

[dragonfire]

Storm's anticipation to have an answer to her question dissipated as soon as the unconscious Lady Keria started to seize. It has to be from his anisetic...nothing like this would happen without a reason. She stood over the chaotic scene with a facial expression of concern for the girl and for her male companion. She wanted to dive in and help him bring the situation under control but she refrained, afraid she would effect his escape.

He needs to go, Keria will draw to much attention, especially with that soldier here...

Just as she thought those words the soldier asked what was going on. Her orange eyes widened and she let out a sigh. Turning to face the soldier ready to come up with an excuse to what was occurring the man frantically working at her feet piped up his normal response.

Just another job? He needs another excuse...

She shook her head and crossed her arms in discontent. Scoffing with her head facing the soldier, Storm was now ready to take on the man verbally if need be. Her former companion picked up his hostage Keria and swung her over his shoulder ready to take her off and do whatever his dark heart desired with her. This is what scared Storm the most about her strange friend. The girl would probably never see daylight again. She looked at the picture for a moment and remembered what he had said earlier...What do you really take me for? A heartless killer...

Yes, that is exactly what I take you for...I find it fascinating...

Storm was sure of herself in most aspects of life but now her feelings confused her. Spending her time with whom she assumed to be an assassin or worse was something she thought she would never do...Let alone enjoy his company maybe even to the extent of falling for him, this dark figure. She cleared her head in time to be able to feel his warm lips touch her forehead then to see him darting for the door with his unconscious victim. I might never see that woman again, or him...His last words provided little comfort. She did not expect much from him, a man and murderer. Yet apart of her believed his short words. Darting from the bar, his dark shadow was the last she saw of his escaping form..

Drawing her attention back to the soldier that had questioned them earlier, she looked at him with a piercing glance, fiery and malevolent. "Lieutenant I presume. My name is Storm. Do not mind the man, he is working very hard for the Fire Nation and it is important you do not speak of what you have seen to anyone unless asked." She nodded with conformation to herself. To be honest she did not even know for sure if he was of Fire, but it would cover and that is all that mattered. " Sorry for my bluntness but I have been wanting to speak with a soldier for a while. I wish to see the Fire Lord, His Excellence, Kaji Hito. I have all intentions to join the Army of Fire and defending our nation and our allies." She bowed to the high ranked soldier and hoped it would flatter him a little. Storm's bow was also out of pure admiration and respectful reflection toward the man as well. Her time had come, she wanted this. Storm was meant to be a soldier.

[hellsdaughter]

Just to calm her body. Yes the drug did that and more. Giving one dose would result in bad reaction; two would result in a horrible reaction. Yes, Jinx’s body calmed, but maybe too much. Her body went still, her breathing shallow, and her heart rate just a flutter. Jinx looked dead, only those dedicated to the study of the body could tell she was still a live, them and undead like beings who could sense it. If Xander name unknown to Jinx) wanted her calm, he sure got her calm.
“Fight, no I must kill him… let… me… at…” her voice fades in her dream to a hold. Everything inside her head stops and goes black, there is no activity.
If Xander didn’t hurry with waking her from her sleep, this might end in her death. Now her body starts to go cold and ridged, her shallow breaths not enough to sustain her. Only one soft whisper escapes her bluing lips.
“Cold…”


o.o.c.- sorry for extreme shortness, but that is all that really happens with her... I couldn't think of anything else that I could possibly say right now... so sorry...

[Blaze]

Another job? He must be some weapon-for-hire for our lord… maybe.

Carefully Lieutenant Vantor gazed upon the scene looking for any hint at the couple’s origins. They could definitely be married with the way she scoffed at his behavior. Classic marital reactions. But this is not what interested his trained curiosity. It was the darkly dressed man’s speed and movements – so fast, so swift – like nothing else he has ever seen. Xander, a name still unknown to all living in the world, was now gone. The woman was left to explain everything... and boy does she have lots to explain.

As only a devoted soldier would, Vantor peered upon the shorter woman’s figure with exposed, fairly muscular arms crossed in front of his chest. Standing there looking down at the woman, he awaited an answer in his plain black under-vest. A dark eyebrow raised in suspicion once this fiery-eyed woman began her expected explanation.

With Storm’s implied order to keep quiet about the encounter, the young soldier dropped his arms to his side. Then she goes and apologizes and... bows. Now that just does not happen everyday. He is in his home neighborhood where everyone treats each other like friends, except Da’mon’s unseemly group. The thought reminded his ears of the laughing men in the candle-lit corner. Van looked up to Pops, who momentarily smiled before returning to his other customers, for some advice prior to gazing back upon blonde female. Her bow brought his attention to the floor behind her.

Well... thank you... but... answer me this if you would...

After grabbing her attention in the moment, Lieutenant Vantor pointed towards the mess on the floor behind her. His body moved slowly, almost flowing, around Storm. He squatted near the mess where he found a truly misplaced object – a bloody footprint. The soldier subtly took the faint print in with a gesture of his hand.

What’s that man’s name and has he been injured?

Vantor looked back to the woman calling herself Storm. He faced her with a quizzical expression; however, it held a challenging secret within his mind.

Let’s see how long you can cover for that dark man cloaked in mystery.

A mental smirk accompanied the challenge.

[dragonfire]

Storm could not hide her desire to scowl at the curious and troublesome soldier. He had crossed a line she had hoped would never be crossed and along with it, seemed to be testing her outright. Her irritation grew and her face flushed a ripe crimson, her light steps brushed across the noisy barroom's floor and she took her place standing directly over her crouching verbal opponent. Storm's wishes to be once more halted now,by the curiosity of a soldier and she assumed his curiosity would not be easily distracted.

Her orange eyes focused non-chalantly on the bloody footprint he so excitedly pointed out. For now she would need to tell the soldier the truth...at least some of it. She would not leave out the main details and only bend the small ones to accommodate for the safety of her unknown friend. What made Storm want to defend him so surpassed her intellect and she felt it unnecessary to dig deep for an answer she would never find quickly, or more likely, at all. Her fiery eyes met his skewed expression finally after some thought.

"Well Sir," she said with a mocking tone, "curiosity did kill the cat you know." Her little joke was meant more as a sting to his own mental game. "And if you must know," she added with a matter-of-fact expression, "I personally have no idea what his name is. He and I met up in the waste after the woman he was sent to find wanted to use me possibly to locate Lord Kaji Hito, and then maybe do away with me! I desired to bring her to the Lord alone, but he was much better equipped and was sent to do so in the first place. I was not going to stop him from injuring a woman of wind, which she so unprofessionally showed me she was of such might I add, who tried to kill me! And her name I doubt is even her own...Lady Keria," she scoffed once more, more disgusted than her first. "She is not dead yet, if that is what you wish to know...but I do not know how much longer she will remain attached to this world." Her arms once crossed with slight anger in her expression now released. Storm held out her hand to help the man from his knee-bent position, even though he probably did not need it. All she wanted was to leave the bar, she was not accustomed to such an area and sometimes did not like the surrounding atmosphere. In which case her mood did not allow her to enjoy a drink much longer.

"Is there anything else I can explain or help you with before I leave by myself to meet Lord Hito?" Her expression reflected a sarcastic smile. Hopefully her light interrogation was over unlike the aggravation on her face that had lasted ever since her mystery man left through the bar doors...

[Blaze]

Quickly the lieutenant’s guise as a top military interrogator dropped. He was not trained in the merciless business of mind torture and criminal questioning. His job was merely to gather information through passive meetings and talking to other soldiers and reporting all intelligence directly to the Lord of Fire. This woman whose annoyance was palpable upon the young soldier’s tongue had broken through his harden exterior to the gentle man Vantor was born.

As he stood, common courtesy as well as fatigue reclaimed their places on the reddish-brown haired man’s face. He smiled kindly at the obvious annoyed sarcastic woman in an attempt to regain some of the calm she had displayed earlier with that dark weapon-for-hire. Vantor did not wish to remain on the wrong foot.

Before beginning, young Van – as he was known locally – sighed.

Well, milady... he began in an exasperated tone, you must already know curiosity is not the only thing which leads a soldier to his death.

Lieutenant Vantor grinned weakly to notify Storm the serious questioning was over and hopefully behind them. Turning slowly back to the bar counter, Van offered a hand to help clean up the vulgar mess left on the floor in a moment or so. He returned to his drink sitting upon the stone counter top and took another, smaller swig than the previous. The hard whiskey was just the ticket. Its sensation offered the young stressed man a certain false sense of bliss; however his body was somewhat immune to its effects and his mind remained clear because of this tolerance. Van took in a controlled breath prior to beginning once again.

I’m sorry. I only asked if he was injured and needed aid. I...

He stopped abruptly and decided to not press the matter further. The lieutenant thought it strange though. She knew not his name and yet seemed comfortable with that man. It was not safe and that strange man unsettled him a little. There was just something about him which kept the soldier on edge. Now Vantor turned his head to look back at the woman with gentle, concerned orbs.

Just watch yourself. The night and the war bring out unsavory characters.

The warning was not only meant for the fiery Storm, but he also was thinking of his innocent little girl waiting with her mother for him to return back home.

Here. Take a seat, he offered gesturing to a stool next to him, so I can speak with you on a level field. After a moment to allow her to think, the lieutenant resumed. No more serious grilling, he promised. Here you can call me Van. This is a local inn rum by friends and it’s meant to be a relaxed setting for soldiers.

Another pause for breath and he continued in his calm and friendly voice. Okay. All possible cards on the table. You want to meet Fire Lord Hito and become a soldier in Fire’s military. Well, I can get you in easy to see him tomorrow morning. Do you have any specific skills or any preference as to what department you’d like to join?

Van looked and saw Storm in the corner of his eye as he turned slightly to her.

What do you think?

The question was posed in his gentle, welcoming voice. He hoped she would see he was willing to cooperate if she would.

[dragonfire]

Her flushed cheeks dulled slowly and her bright eyes followed the movements of the new subject that required her undying attention, the soldier of Fire. Storm noted his renewed facial expression and his genial smile. He seemed decent enough, much more than the most recent encounter with the dark assassin that she so willingly gave her heart to... What a silly thing I have done, to feel for a man I met in the Waste...I...I don't even know his name. Her expression changed in nature to a serious guise and she cocked her head curiously as the soldier let out a deep breath which was more of a sigh than a simple exhale.

What he said next was indeed true. Storm knew well what else could kill a soldier, and curiosity was much less of a worry than other beings found in all the realms. She saw his lips twitch into an attempted smile and she smiled sheepishly in return. She felt quite silly about her words much earlier and regretted a small amount of what she had let slip from her tongue, but just the same a majority of it she meant.

As the soldier misplaced his attention toward her for a moment she took her opportunity to clutch her pre-ordered drink in her tight grip. Storm took a deep drink from her mug of Ale and turned back to him, her face was unfashionably damp with sweat and her hair was sticking to it in blond and red-orange streaks that strangely resembled a road map. She quickly planted the cup on the bar and tried to straighten herself as fast as she could before he turned to acknowledge her once again, but she was to late, In the middle of her hands flying to remove her unruly hair and such from her face he turned and began to inquire once more of the unknown Xander. A surprised look entered her face and her hands flew down to her sides. Storm did not mind him speaking of her companion once again, but he quickly dropped the subject, possibly thinking otherwise about brining the topic to the table once more. But he is not the one who is hurt! at least I don't think he is, is he? Keria is the one who...is... Her mouth wished to scream these words to him, he must not have caught her whole explanation, or did not understand what she was saying before. She had blown rather quickly through and jumbled it all together out of anger mostly. Storm kept quiet only because she did not want her tongue to get her in trouble before she had even discussed what she had wanted to talk to him about in the first place.

Storm took his advice like a man, so to say. She nodded with agreement, and she meant it. She would truly need to watch herself around the mysterious man she knew nothing about but felt deeply for, her mind raced once again and thoughts helplessly began to crash into one another. Storm slowly began to panic about her recent experience and almost began to hyperventilate but controlled herself by chugging much of the remaining Ale in her mug. The kind man offered her a chair, but she hoped for the best he did not offer it because he saw her reaction to her contained thoughts. What an idiot! Storm thought to herself, about slipping emotionally like that, she still needed to remind herself she was a woman and all women and men had emotions they could not control. The fact that they could rarely be controlled angered her, self control was everything to her and she was not so easily broken as she was today. Maybe some sleep would ease the distress she felt at the moment , or dull it as much as possible.

Storm sat gratefully In the chair... "Thank you, Van." She said with a stressed friendly smile. When he asked her about her special skills or any Field she would like to enter her face twisted with thought. She had never really considered getting this far in her journey but her thoughts worked as quickly as they could for as late as the night was passing.

"Well Van" , she said calmly, "I can burn objects and flesh with a touch of my hands or feet". She gently showed him her markings on her wrists across the table they sat at and let him look at them as long as he liked. "I also have an ego, and quite an attitude", she said frankly.

"I will tell you the truth about my self most of the time" , she shrugged her shoulders and smiled wide. "I am not quite sure of What the Lord could use me for exactly..." Storm looked directly at Vantor with her fiery eyes, "but I am sure of one thing, I have been told by my mother that my hands and feet are not the only part of me that can kill, words and manner would do just as much, but it will take time to see if it is true".

Her face was very solemn and her brow line was curved, Mother... her thoughts hissed the sound. She realized she was ranting much about herself and blushed and moved awkwardly in her seat as she watched the soldier Van think...

O.O.C: Sorry, I got carried away for once, I could have kept going but I stopped for your sake...much muse for some reason... LOL

[Blaze]

Excitedly, Vantor’s entire body shifted upwards as she mentioned her power. Burn anything with a touch… and an attitude to boot! Wide-eyed and amazed, the exhausted lieutenant gazed directly into Storm’s visual pools like a boy during the great festivals held in honor of the mighty God of Fire Pyran.

“Could I see? Just a sample?” the soldier asked eagerly.

Lieutenant Vantor possessed a typical lineage for humanoid fire citizens thriving within the city’s walls –- that of a fire magic tradition. Unfortunately for the observant militant man, the magic skipped his generation. He still had access to some of the fire magic qualities such as a tolerance for heat. Despite this lack of power, Van has always carried an enthusiasm for his encounters with new powers. Young Vantor may have been lucky enough to work directly under his Fire Lord; however Lord Hito never used all possible fire power (restraint was a characteristic in which the Fire Lord took great pride).

He calmed down gradually to reclaim the proper composure of a soldier and thought for a brief moment after he had asked for a demonstration of her skills. Gripping his glass of hard liquor, Van raised it to stop midstream merely to swirl the remaining liquid. After replacing the glass back on the table, the lieutenant brought himself out of his thoughts with a steady, yet tired, rhythm of breath.

“I honestly can’t say I know exactly where you would be placed, but I can say I’m sure you will be an asset and a powerful addition to the military.”

Smiling, a serious yet kind Vantor brought his eyes back to hers; his thoughts had taken them past her and into the space beyond stone and wall. From her on, it was the planning for morning meetings to be done.

ooc: sorry it's a bit short... I know where I wanted to go with it, but it seemed to be just a little too long... didn't want to leave you behind and all ;D ... enough to respond to I guess.

[dragonfire]

Storm had been sitting fully engaged in what words might come from his mouth. Her posture had changed simply for the moment. Her torso and head where bent over the table and her face was close, but not uncomfortably, to the soldier Van's own. Her hair, still somewhat drenched with sweat was all over her face and her arms rested in a tight position on the table.

Storm was greatly pleased with his quick interest in her powers and a twisted smile danced upon her shinny face. Her eyes held a dim glow and she waited patiently for Van to carry on the rest of his intended conversation. She felt taking a conversation rapidly would not mean the best for her in this type of situation. She had her chance now to become what she wanted most, to have what she wanted. Everything except the name of that man who had brought her to this place. But for now, it was what she could grasp her hands around the quickest and time was already escaping her. The War would soon begin, for this was certain, and Storm had taken a side.

She smiled with his complement. She had an ego this was true, but arrogance was absent for the moment. Her smile was more of a modest one and she highly doubted the Fire Lord would find her interesting. She would be another addition to his fine army, yes. But powerful? Storm was not thinking of it, she had not even met the man yet or his army, but she would find out soon enough.

Storm shifted her now empty cup away from her and looked at Van intently. She was willing to show him her powers, but she was uncertain about using the table as a guinea pig. It would have to do.

"I will indeed show you my powers kind gentleman, Van. You seem most interested, as I am with what you do." Her eyebrows rose considerably and she continued. "I know you cannot predict where the Lord will place me, but after I show you, you may have a better outlook upon it, will you not? You are of course a highly regarded man of the military, Yes?"

Storm smiled playfully and pulled her arms away from her. "I don't truly believe I have ever introduced myself properly." Her face was still close to his. "My name is Storm, a woman of the Waste." Her tone was proud and she held out her hand to make a sturdy shake with the soldier's.

Placing her one hand on the dirty wooden table in front of her, she now adjusted herself to sit back in chair. She was only going to use a mere amount of power within her so it was not a difficult task. Storm's jeweled tattoo lit dimly as did her eyes. Barley noticeable to the human eye. A small smoke ring emanated from around her hand on the wood table and she quickly drew it away to show the soldier what had happened underneath her fingertips and palm. A solid, charred outline of her hand was now located in the middle of the tiny table they had been sitting at. She looked at her work with a smirk and then the face of the soldier. Would her talent be accepted in the wide military of the Fire nation? Or would her loyalties need to lie elsewhere.

[Blaze]

The modest pub still bustled with business even as the hour grew late and the candles grew both shorter and wider. While the older, wiser, visitors left to return home, the young spitfires and eager thrill-seeking citizens remained energetic and continued ordering to their late night desire. Of course, Pops did not mind a wit. It was business, they were young, and pops is a very flexible man. A subtle smile peeked out from under a rough bush of gray hair as the old inn keeper listened to the city’s youth relax.

At a table not too far from the stone top bar, continued an informal interview of sorts. Lieutenant Vantor sat completely consumed in his own thought with the potential soldier and comrade Storm of the Wastelands. Than is until she speaks bringing him back to present matters. Her twisted smile made the young soldier slightly uncomfortable at the mention of power – curiosity did kill the cat. His trained composure, however, did not offer any clue towards that bit of uncertainty.

On the other hand, Van’s face did take on more reddish tints with the mention of military stature. Following suit, the young man extended his hand to take hers while allowing the enthusiastic woman to finish her introduction. He actually did not remember whether or not she had given him her name – wild day equaled hectic thought process. Vantor nodded in recognition before moving on the answer some questions.

“Nice name and I’m sure it suits you.” He paused hoping for the right words to come to him. “I’m not so sure about my reputation in the military though. Yes, I report directly to Fire Lord Hito, but some soldiers don’t exactly think very highly of me. I don’t have any active powers… the magic sorta skipped my generation.” Van hesitated again, this time to reminisce about his childhood. Soon he continued to try to answer her other question. “As for your placement, I don’t know… maybe… I can’t…” His voice trailed quickly off as the scent of burnt pine rose.

Vantor’s eyes followed a thread of white smoke to the table. He watched intently as she lifted her hand. Wisps of smoke played between her fingers and a burned hand-shaped scar remained behind. The soldier curiously fingered the mark on the pine fixture.

“Amazing.”

The whisper slipped involuntarily from the wide-eyed man’s mouth. Tearing his attention away from the table, van looked back to Storm’s face.

“I’m sorry, but I still don’t know. Uh… I’m sure that power is very effective in close combat, but other than that, I’m just not sure. Sorry.”

His soft voice carried eager offerings as well as uncertain thoughts. Vantor looked into Storm’s eyes wishing he could tell her more.

[dragonfire]

The private conversation between Vantor and Storm pressed on after her display of power. She looked at him with questionable eye as she noticed the strange red hue that had lit up his cheeks. Is he embarrassed? Storm's thoughts scrambled wildly as she tried to locate what she could have said before she so eagerly burnt the material off of the table top that made him feel as such, but then quickly gave up when Van began to speak. Storm smiled her usual crooked smile...and then her eyes grew large and her lips twisted with surprise when she had realized Van spoke of himself as being powerless...

A man of Fire without a gift? I know this is possible, but...the Fire Lord must be daft to employ such a man to aide him, how would he protect himself if attacked by another element? Certainly not with a sword...this is horrible, poor Vantor...I can see why he feels embarrassed. Yet he proves himself kind, and worthy...If any man were to bash him they would be dead for certain...

"Yes", she whispered back in a reflective tone, "It is."

Storm turned her orange eyes to peer into Van's the moment he tore his attention away from the mark she had left. He spoke to her with a certain regret, and she responded with heart felt emotion.

"That is alright, I am sure I will find out what use he has for me when I arrive."

She paused to think and her spirits jumped again with her next thought.

"What are the details then? I am sure a meeting needs to be arranged, but it is way to late to do so today. I have a feeling we will need to retire shortly for the evening, unless you have other plans? Which is quite alright if you do...I just need to know a little before we start out so I do not seem like a complete imbecile."

She smiled brightly and waited for him to reply, becoming more impatient as time wore one.

[Blaze]

The small bar seemed to take on a quieter sense while she pondered at what he thought to be the use of a powerless soldier. This thought did not bother the lieutenant however. He was used to the questions and uncertainty and had proved himself a good many times to the Fire Lord. Vantor is a man with a self-esteem possessing only one weakness which lived within his magical lacking.

His eyes found their way back to the scar as he listened to her considerate voice. Then silence once again took hold. What is she thinking?

Just then, a sudden burst of energy filled the room nearly forcing Van’s head up and at attention. Remaining seated though, surprised eyes watched as the excitement seemed to pour from the woman in front of him. Any person could tell she wanted this and bad. It almost scared Vantor.

Still he worried about her. Sure she could be a very loyal soldier if she kept this perspective of the job, but what if she turned out to be one of those youth who joins the military in search of adventure, honor, and glory. Would the actual work dishearten her and create a weak link in her? Or would it make her all the more determined? Well, this truly was not of the Lieutenant’s concern and it would merely be a preliminary round in the beginning. The Fire Lord takes good care of his men and women in uniform so he would be the one to decide her future in Fire’s military. Therefore, there is not real harm in introducing her tomorrow.

For a moment more, Lieutenant Vantor thought about the best possible time for the meeting. Tomorrow would be the soonest; however Lord Hito will be busy. Yet he is always doing something including seeing recruits. With that thought, Van settled with the next morning – it being as good as any other day… hopefully.

“Very well. Tomorrow morning then.” He paused for a moment to allow Storm any comment before continuing. “Tomorrow morning I will take you to see Fire Lord Hito. You can stay here for the remainder of the night… if that is alright with you and it will return in the morning to escort you and Lady Peira to military headquarters…” The lieutenant carried on with one last phrase before another break. “…if she arrives,” but this was more of an order for himself.

Suddenly, a notion clicked within his head – the notion was that of a husband and father. Van realized how late it was turning. He figured Kayli must be becoming quite worried and knew he should leave for home soon. Though, he could not be rude.

Without rising or rushing, Vantor hoped to make clear the morning plans and wrap up this conversation for the night.

“So, how does that sound to you? Okay?”