Late Night Scares & Shocks

[Anulia of Amora]

Momento #2: NEVER SCARE ANULIA IN A DARK ALLY OR GET HER ON THE SUBJECT OF SEX

Anulia of Amora - The night was rushing with a heavy pace into the sky. Stars shined and tried to brighten the darkness that rotated around the land. Dressed in the torn skirts of bright colors, a dark maroon corset and white tunic underneath to keep her larger breast at bay and partly from view as she served men and women alike in the tavern. Her shift had finished not long after, leaving her to hit the streets with a generous cloak about her form. The air was still cold and Anulia's body was still getting use to it all. Stepping outside of the tavern, she hurried down the steps and paused as she watched the few people wondering about the streets. Every face that could be seen was given a smile, but those that could not, made her hesitant. After finding the baby in the Viking ship and seeing the bones of the people, she was timid and afraid of shadows once more. Nightmares rushed to her when she tried to rest and she once again dressed in the clothing of her people in the jungle in order to feel close to them and their spirits. Pulling the hood of the cloak upwards to cover her unbraided and wavy hair, she moved onto the cobblestone road and headed for the market place, hoping to get to the gypsy camp sooner rather then later. Moving faster, she heard a noise behind her and turned to see a male walking. He seemed dark and unknown. Large and haunted with his head down. She did not want to take her eyes off him. It was not until he lifted his head and smiled as he turned into a home, that she turned around. It was much too late though, for she had not been paying attention and ended up walking right into the back of a wagon full of hay. Little feet went up and her upper body went forward, diving into the hay head first with a squeal. Legs kicked out in mid air, before she finally wiggled herself out and nearly fell on her rear along the cold ground had it not been for her hand grabbing the side of the wagon. Booted feet touched the ground, while hay stuck out every which way from her hood and hair and clothing. Some even stuck out from her corset. Now, she felt foolish and when a man and woman started walking down the road, she hurried in a run to head for the corner and get around it. Her cloak flared out behind her and when she made it around the corner, another dark figure came into view. BAM! She knocked directly into the poor man, not knowing it was a friend and not foe. The small impact startled her so bad, she screamed. Sadly, that was not the only reaction. Two fingers moved out to press against the flesh just above the upper left peck muscle, under the collar bone in a sharp jab. Anulia, had secrets and the male would soon find out.

Nathan Renquest - Poor Anulia was not the only one who wandered haunted by demons in the night. Per Kaori's request, the boy actually was armed, the strange blade slung at his waist, so exotic it hardly suited the lad. By now he had mostly adjusted to the weight--as well as the fear of his life ending around a mere corner, but out, alone in the evening? It was hard not to jump at shadows, to see every shape as a potential threat. It made him nervous. Clad in a simple tailed jacket of dark hue, the boy was on a late run to speak with somebody, and found himself out a little later than anticipated., and he would have never ran into anyone, naturally, had it not been for the fact that, mere moments before he had been startled as well--a hand came up on his shoulder as he walked down the street, and he whirled around so fast he was nearly put off balance. but it wasn't some unseen attacker, it was someone from the earlier ceremony.

Vance - "Late Night, Mr. Renquest?" the fellow--Vance was his name, inquired.

Nathan Renquest - "Oh... Oh yes, just.."

Vance - "Better get home, then.."

Nathan Renquest - The man slipped away without another word, leaving Nate a little confused--was that some kind of threat? The result of this was his head was craned to follow Vance where he was going while he walked--right until he a wall of flesh by accident. No sooner did the words "Oh!" pass his lips that the scream cut into his ears with enough of a start to make him shout as well--shortly before a pair of sharp jabs rendered an arm all but useless, the second pair of strikes hitting with such force and precision that it sent him stumbling backwards, his entire upper body losing any semblance of strength--unceremoniously falling flat on his back on the street, which did a wonderful job of knocking the wind out of him.

Anulia of Amora - Eyes widened at the male as he shouted and the shifting of his form free falling placed the light on his face. Nathan! Anulia tried to catch him, but failed and instead went stumbling after him, landing on top of him, which knocked the wind a bit out of her since Nathan's chest was solid with bone and flesh. Hands moved out to stop all of her weight from crushing him and her face from slamming into his. It took a few moments and blinks later to catch her own breath and ignore the pounding in her chest as her heart rate accelerated. ``Nathan! I am so sorry! Hi...`` Leaning to the side, she curled skirts from her legs to expose them from the thigh down as she placed her fingers along his chest and pressed then twisted to take off the numbing affect she placed by cutting off the nerves. The numbness eased and warmth took over along those limbs. Shifting from his form completely, she stood up and leaned over to reach her hands down, grabbing hand fulls of his shirt, tunic, cloak, any clothing that covered his chest, before tugging him upwards to sit. ``You must stop scaring me! It is not good for your health it seems. Are you okay?``

Nathan Renquest - Oh now there was an unpleasant mingling of sensations. Whatever it was that attacked him went down with him, crying out in dismay and nearly crushing him, which left poor Nate stumbling and thrashing to avoid what he thought--at first, was another killer, but details would be revealed, one by one--it was Anulia, and she was on top of him, inches away, in fact, looking breathlessly at him as she apologized and gave a greeting. Wait, it was Anulia? he would have blushed if he wasn't too busy being absolutely terrified. The lady than went about her work to fix aggrieved injuries, fussing with his shirt and jacket whilst admonishing him for startling her. "M..Miss Anulia!" he'd sat up with almost indecent haste, if nothing else to stop from the indignity of having her grope him. "O...Oh, I'm so... terribly sorry. I'm fine, really, I'm fine, just... caught me off guard." he reached a hand absently at his chest, rubbing away the strange, tingling sensation. Just what was it she had done a mere moment ago? "[/b]I didn't mean, I was just.. ah, distracted. Ah, are you alright?[/b]" Stupid question, she was fine, clearly, but it was the first one that sprang to mind. [/color]

Anulia of Amora - Anulia could not help it. The 'Miss Anulia' made her smile wider and laugh softly. ``Just Anulia. I am as humble as you are Nathan. Titles are very bad for me..I forget often. There are so many here in these lands.`` She released him so he could straighten his clothing. ``The fault is mine as well. I was.. nervous and shaky.`` The smile was still lingering on her face, for she had no reason to not smile at Nathan. ``We seem to be catching each other off guard. Distracted? Come...tell me what is on your mind and I will tell you what is on mine!`` If Anulia could grab him and lift him to his feet, she would. She was only 5'1 and that was not a lot to move another. Still, she eagerly reached out with him using both hands.

Nathan Renquest - Well, as it happened, Nate was not exaclty tall either but that was another matter entirely. The response was a sheepish smile, though given the circumstances she was lucky he wasn't using full blown honorifics he was so frightened, and he justified the girls actions. "Oh well, you know, can't be too careful..." sheepish as he was, he was still feeling a little awkward and off-base and so took the assistance, struggling to his feet with her aid, feeling strangely relieved to run into her on a dark night. The poor woman could barely hide her own uncertainity. He didn't know Anulia was capable of that action, but the fact she acted without thinking spoke of a darker trauma--a glimpse of which he had only gotten once before. Did he really want to add to that by making her worry? "Oh... Oh... well, I mean... " strangely, in his nervousness his eyes came to her face, her expression, and he found himself telling her anyway, despite his inhibitions. "It's... rather complicated. Maybe we should get somewhere where we're both a little... more comfortable." What sounded like a bad pick up line was more literal in its meaning--somewhere where they weren't looking over his shoulder, he meant.

Anulia of Amora - Anulia locked her muscular legs in place as she held on to Nathan's hands and helped him to his feet. Chocolate eyes never looked away from him, giving him her full attention. When he looked around, that was the only time that Anulia looked around too, seeing if he was looking for someone or something. ``I have a place, come with me.`` She understood the point of needing a private place to talk. She had other friends who wished the same. Keeping a hold of his hand as a friendly gesture, she moved opposite her original path to head for the castle. Beathag and Adam had let her keep her room, which was so generous. Anulia could never thank them enough. Both moved quickly towards the castle and after showing the guards her face, her and Nathan entered inside. The paths twisted and turned until they were walking down the halls, Nathan's hand still in her own, and moved for a door among the last on the noble floors. Anulia was not given a common room, but one large and grand. Opening the latch, she pushed the door open and moved inside, letting Nathan close the door while she moved towards the fireplace and took a few moments to bring it to life. Once it was blazing with warmth and the scent of pine, she removed her cloak. The light showed the dark reds and yellows that took over her room. Plants and even small trees with the roots wrapped in cloth and shoved in dirt to keep the life flowing, took over corners and the sides of the walls, making it more jungle then stone. ``Please, have a seat on the bed. It is very comfortable! Tell me what it is that bothers you my friend.``

Nathan Renquest - Well that was a surprise. He didn't know where Anulia lived, but the castle would have been her last guess, and he passed his friend an extremely befuddled glance, not quite letting go of her hand but certainly feeling embarrassed to be holding it! Oh lord, she had taken him to her room? his face flushed at the very thought! even asking her to sit on her bed! It was almost unthinkable, but then so was being rude and saying otherwise. Ramrod straight and suddenly very nervous, he'd awkwardly release his hand from hers and move to sit on the edge of the bed, taking in the details of the room and what it told about Anuli'as life, a little slice of home far away from home, perhaps? Only when he could delay it no longer, he smiled a bit again. "It's.. It really is nothing, well, I mean it's over now, at least. I...I've been doing a little work with Lady Kaori H--I should say, Lady Kaori De La Costa, I suppose. " he smiled, faintly, not sure if that adequately explained a thing, and added. "Matters for the Court. It's just.. well.. I suppose someone tried to murder her. Some... some cutt-throat, I'm not really sure. Anyway I was there... I was amazed, frankly she fought him off. I would have never imagined! And I... well, I didn't make much account of myself." he tried to dismiss the guilt and make light of it."Anyway, I'm still just a little shaken up by it..."

Anulia of Amora - Long hair, lightly oiled and set in waves, trailed around her shoulders and down towards her hips to sway as she moved. Anulia really should understand that a room was privacy and a male should not be in a room alone with a woman, for her mind was truly at the most innocent setting. She did not think in the sexual manner as others did. To her, they were simply two friends talking and there was no reason why they could not be in a room, for that was where most of talking happened did it not? Eyes moved over him as he sat, looking so stiff and uncomfortable. She disliked seeing a friend like that, for they should be free. Oh! Lady Kaori, she was a wonderful woman. Small like Anulia and yet full of smarts! Eyes widened when he said Kaori was almost killed. When? ``Oh..`` Shifting she toe off her shoes and proceeded to walk bare foot towards him. Easing down on the bed, one leg rose to bend so her knee was placed sideways on the bed and the weight of her pressed down into it. ``Nathan, I know Kaori is well in defending herself. I am sorry you had to see such violence though. Do you...not know how to defend yourself? There is no shame in it. You would be among the first male that I have met, who can not.``

Nathan Renquest - Ironic that, despite saying there was no shame in it, she'd point out that she hadn't met anyone else who couldn't, and he felt decidedly guilty about it. "I.. I've never really had to. I mean, I've been a Scholar all my life." he gestured, awkwardly, to the blade Kaori had given him, a curved short-bladed Wakizashi slung at his belt. "S..She's been trying to teach me but well, I'm no good at it." which was even more shameful. He was raised with very English upbringing--even if he had managed to work past some of them, he was not able to deal with all of them. "I... I guess I'm just not much of a Warrior... honestly I just.. well, I froze." Oh god, mentioning something like this in a setting like this? Too much to bear. He averted his eyes dutifully and tensed, however subtly. "Ah, forget it. This has all passed, really... ah.. but what about you? You seem kind of.. well, nervous." and based on what experience he had, Anulia was never 'nervous'. it was an obvious attempt to take the focus off him, but such as it was.

Anulia of Amora - Having only been in civilization for a little over a year, there were still many things Anulia was learning. In the jungles, all men knew how to hunt, kill and feed their people. Here, not all men knew such traits and it was strange to see. Eyes looked to the blade that he gestured to before looking back to his eyes. Such a sensitive face, calm and kind. A young face. ``That just means that being a warrior is not for you. There is a difference between being a warrior and keeping yourself safe. I, am not fighter. I can not punch a male out, I can not even push a man but a few inches away from me. I can, do things to help me get away. That is what is important. That, is what you should learn.`` Leaning against the bed post, she made herself comfortable, hoping he would take it as an example. A hand moved out to press to his own. ``I have froze as well Nathan, many times. I have seen other men freeze too. There is no shame in that. We shall change topics though, if you are uncomfortable.`` Anulia might act childish, but she was a woman well in her thirties. She had seen much. ``I have seen a ghost of my past. and it frightens me. I...I did not come to these lands as others had. Not by choice. Did you come by choice, Nathan?``

Nathan Renquest - She was remarkably perceptive thing for an innocent girl. The Scholar smiled bashfully as she cut to the heart of his reason for changing the subject, but it would do her well to speak of what troubled her. He chose his words carefully in replying. "...Yes. Yes, I was asked to come here by a Merchant as part of my employment, but it was my choice. Anulia... were you.. were you brought here by force?" it seemed a silly question to ask, but to give voice it to seemed to shake him considerably, dreading the thought of someone forcing themselves on the poor woman, reflexively curling his hand around hers without even thinking about it. Being shy and improper was one thing, realizing how troubled his friend was was quite another.

Anulia of Amora - Glad that it was his choice, she smiled, no matter what topic came about. A merchant, what could have made him chose to come to Skye. It faded a bit, however when he asked if she had come by force. ``Partly. My life has not been pleasant, much as others have found a hard time as well. In what I call my second life, I was taken from my home in the jungle by what people call 'Vikings' and was shipped across many seas. Many people were starved and many died in front of those who lived. Being a slave is a horrible way to live. A few of the men that survived, decided to fight for their freedom and during that time, I was freed and while I wanted to stay to help, I was pushed from the boat by a dog. We both went over into the water, the dog drowned, but I did not and washed up on the shores here. Skye...is my freedom. But I would have not chosen to come here, for I did not know it even existed.``

Nathan Renquest - "Oh God..." of course it made sense, nor was it terribly surprising--it was not unheard of to take Slaves for a variety of cultures, he had seen plenty, but to hear a woman speak on it, and her, of all things. He could never have imagined. "...Oh God, Anulia.. I'm so.. I'm so sorry." he attempted to smile, half-heartedly in a way that he hoped reassure her. "But... but I mean it's long past now, right? From all I've seen Skye is a wonderful place to call home. Y..You have friends here, I mean, that... Ahh, General, he spoke very highly of you! I'm sure you'd never fall into that old life again..." he was referring to Maahes, though he tactfully let out the part that if he ever took advantage of the woman he'd probably end up dead somewhere a short while later--not important, nor was the kind that would try and woo the poor thing, or even could!

Anulia of Amora - Even while speaking it, Anulia's face did not hold bitterness or sadness to it. She missed her people, she missed the life she had, but that was not the first time she was ripped from one life and thrust into another. Many details were left out, for there was no need to give others those haunting visions. Anulia did not play victim, nor would she ever if she could help it. ``Indeed, God was the only one there. Or Gods. It is part of a long past that could repeat. I try my best to not think on it like that, for I am not a victim. Things simply happen that we can not control, such as other people and their actions. We can only do what we can to survive. Oh..`` She did not need to think hard in order to know what he was talking about. ``Maahes? yes, yes. He is very important to me and has been there when he could. I do have many friends, none more important then the other! I call you friend as well. I just..I have a feeling that my time here is coming short. There has been a pattern in my life, one that the Gods deem for me. I live in a place for a while, become happy, then get ripped from it with violence and thrust to another. It has made me who I am.`` Reaching out to him again, she curled her small, soft hand over his own so she could feel his harder knuckles that pushed through the skin. ``I saw a Viking ship..and I fear on seeing them again. May I share a secret with you?``

Nathan Renquest - "Anulia... " the frown deepened, almost forgetting his place entirely. He almost hugged the poor woman! what she was speaking about was deeply troubling, it was if a part of her was resigned to this fate. He wanted to tell her that it was impossible--nobody would let her get taken again, hell, even he wouldn't, but it seemed out of place. Would it mean anything coming from him? he had already demonstrated that he couldn't protect a damn thing. His mouth opened and shut, instead focusing on the sensation of her hand on his, shifting beneath her hand but otherwise offering it for what comfort she needed, tilting his head gently as she offered to him a secret to take. Secrets in so many ways were his trade--what he sought to ferret out, but in her case, it was more of a need for her to share it with someone. "Of... of course you can. You can trust me Anulia, this I promise. I'll keep your word..." he subtly shifted a bit closer to the woman--an errant lesson from Kaori, perhaps, who was slightly more affectionate and platonic, which he was now trying to mimic, much as it was difficult for him to do so.

Anulia of Amora - It should all be troubling, but Anulia was letting it not be. She laughed, smiled and was generally a happy and light hearted person. She believed a long time ago, that she was not going to let those who were dead, affect how she lived her life. All of her masters were dead..she was not. What did that say about them and herself? His words meant a lot, more then he knew and the fact that he did not pull away helped. Anulia was nice and many may have liked her, but there were few that would let her touch them at whim. Aman-ud-Din never said no to a hug, nor did Eirian. Maahes did not like to be touched and that had trained Anulia to not reach out to him all the time, even when she wanted to. Odis had told her to not hug him anymore, because it made him want her in a sexual way, others had said much the same. It was not easy to be a person of touch and be told it did not affect people in good ways. Nathan's leaning forward, made her grin a bit. He and Lucius were so alike in many ways. Lucius, another who did not deny her touch, but acted strange from it. Taking her hand from his own, she rolled up her sleeve and showed the burned imprint of the bird on her flesh, just inside her forearm. ``This, is the symbol of my last master. The only one who marked me. I fear this means I will never be rid of him, though I believe he was killed on the ship. What if.. another Viking sees this symbol and has claim to that man's property? What if they...recognize me?``

Nathan Renquest - "Well... I mean..." he worked his mind around what she had told him, his heart sinking at the sight of the mark burned into her flesh, he'd run a thumb lightly over it again and fix his gaze to it, clearly troubled by the marring, feeling absolutely terrible. "Oh Anulia, you poor thing..." he looked up to her, genuinely troubled by what he had seen. "But... but look there's no reason to be so fearful. The chances of a Viking recognizing you? Well I mean, what are the odds of such a thing? Even if he does, to try and take you, in the home of your friends? There are people here who'd move Heaven and Earth to bring you back..." he hesitated than, wondering if it was at all proper to speak of things with such a limited perspective. "Look, I can only imagine how much you've suffered through in times like this, truly, I can't know it. But... there is always the chance that suffering can end. You're not... doomed to anything, I promise!" though the metaphor was strained in her case, he tried it anyway. "Look, that bit about the God or gods making one person suffer just to endure it, well, that's.. I mean it's just stories. It doesn't mean it's going to happen. And even if it does..." he squeezed her hand again. "Than there are people who will come find you. I swear to you, Anulia.... E..Even I will, if it should come to that! And I have friends, you know. In the Kingdom. I'm sure I could get them to help." he managed a weak grin--for all the good it would do, it'd seem.

Anulia of Amora - It was long since healed, so when he ran his thumb over it, it tickled more then hurt. The skin was smooth, yet rough. It was at his comment of her being a poor thing, that she frowned. A first real frown. Still she said nothing and listened to what he had to say. true, true in so many ways. ``I hear people say that the Gods or God is not real. Some believe them with everything. I don't think they punished me..I mean I did before, but not now. I think...it was just fate. I believe you..and it would always make me smile to see you face my friend! Always. You are such a great person, from what I know of you. You should, smile more often. It suits you. I do not think of myself as a 'poor thing' though. I am happy and don't let the shadows make me bitter, but can not help be worried and fearful.`` He was easing her though. Her hand was squeezed and she gave the same pressure back. ``Nathan, why did you chose Skye?``

Nathan Renquest - Nate's face flushed but he didn't know how to reply with being asked to smile more--even if the idea that the woman had resigned herself to a fate of suffering made him ache at the mere thought. "Well... originally it just academic curiosity. I'd heard of it, of course, but I'd never gotten to travel... fanciful things, really. I.. I really wasn't prepared for what I found. but... but I suppose the stories of the place appealed to me. It seemed so... all so wonderful, you know? I've traveled a fair amount since then but I could only dream of the kind of things I heard about." He had not addressed, at least yet, that his original plan was not to stay in such a place. To say it after moment like this seemed almost cruel. "But to be terribly honest with you.. I'm not entirely sure. I just... felt a need to go, when I heard it. When I was asked, I was... well, rather certain." he looked kind of sheepish again and shrugged. "I guess those... Gods may have just had a hand in it, no?" what more could he do for her? He didn't want her to be worried, or fearful. It seemed terrible that she would have to feel that way, especially when her life had already endured her share of it. "I... I don't know, I guess I can't say..."

Anulia of Amora - That flush was wonderful to see as well! How the skin tinted to a light color of red and made him glow like a flame was inside of him. ``They may have and you came here for a good reason. Look what it has brought you so far! Noble connections, good business and many places to write for, new people and faces. I do not see where it is that you are not having good things come your way, unless there are secrets you carry as well. I have learned, not everyone believes in the Gods. I ...don't know what to believe. Still, I am glad that you came here. You are a right good friend indeed to have Nathan. Do...you have secrets you wish to share. No one can hear us but these plants..and they do not speak too loud.`

Nathan Renquest - "Me too.. .I'm.. I'm glad too." and he meant it when he said it, though the admittance was so embarrassing that he smiled again to hide the mounting tension. but it seems he couldn't dissuade her for long, peering down at his lap when she had asked for secrets. "Honestly.. Miss..." he took a deep breath and glanced awkwardly at her. "Alright... Alright it seems only fair. The truth is, Anulia. I've never been so terrified in all my life. " he took a deep breath than. "I love it here, truly, I do. I've come to this place with great affection, but... but I mean ever since I've come here everything's been upside down. First it was the Lily, than meeting Kaori... suddenly I'm caught up in some... terrible political intrigue, suddenly somebody's coming after my head... I mean... honestly, I've never had anyone want to do anything untoward to me at all, much less try to kill me! All... All my life I've wanted so me sense of adventure and... you know, all those childish things, romance and glory and all such nonsense but..." he swallowed slightly again. "Ever since that day, I've just... I've been terrified. Of everything. Every person I catch looking my way, every word a person says. K..Kaori has been trying, lord help her she's been trying to teach me, but... I just... I don't know." he sighed and brought a hand to his head, however briefly. "Sorry, I'm not making any sense. I just meant... Lord, I don't know. I always imagined I'd have the stuff of heroes and legends if only I had the opportunity to prove it. Now something happened and... God. She could have been killed..."

Anulia of Amora - Anulia said nothing to the 'Miss' since it seemed to be a reaction he had, or habit to things. Respect she knew, was something a few men had. While he looked to his lap, she looked to him, trying not to stare, but it was hard not to because she wanted him to have all attention, but did not want her stare to make him feel uncomfortable. She did not understand why someone would want Nathan's head, for it was his own. And why would someone want to kill him? It was her turn to worry over her friend and how he was doing. ``You make perfect sense. Something you thought you wanted, now scares you because it is not as you saw in books? Nathan, you are human..a person. Being afraid comes with that. Everyone is afraid, even Maahes and Eamonn. I have seen them worried and panicked. Yes, she could have been killed, so could you have, but your not. The thing is, you are now doing something about it and taking the steps needed to try and prevent it from happening again. That does not make you feel better?``

Nathan Renquest - "A... a little I guess." he shrugged awkwardly again, feeling uncomfortable around the scrutiny. Honestly, of all the people to confide in, there could be no better than the Anulia, who he found his initial feelings of innocence giving way to a surprising wisdom and cleverness, and ironically felt almost childish in her hands. "I just don't want to go through it again. I... I think if I watched someone I care about die, I don't think I could have lived with myself. and it just keeps..." he sighed lightly again and rubbed the back of his head with a free hand. "Sorry. Sorry..." he glanced to her again. "[/b]Look... I can't bear for it to happen again, so I won't. A...Alright? If anything happens to you, I promise. I'll... I'll be there, and I won't be frightened.[/b]" Did he even know what he was saying? He found it surprising even then, but knowing what he know and feeling how he did than, well, they seemed almost too much to be coincidence. Another person he cared about was in danger. The mere thought of it brought color to his face again and he sort of focused his attentions on the room to take his mind off it.[/color]

Anulia of Amora - How could Anulia laugh at him or say he was wrong when she felt the same at times? That would not be fair, nor correct. ``I know what it means to not want to bear it happening again. I hope it never does, but yes, I know you will be there and I believe you. In and out Nathan. If you are frightened, I would never hold that over you. Chances are, I am as well. We have scared each other a few times. If I can help it, you won't go through those things with me Nathan..I promise.`` She leaned forward and pressed a soft kiss of her full lips to his cheek gently before pulling back with a wide smile.``Now, is there anything else you wish to let free? Perhaps..have you found a lady yet!? Come tell me good things!``

Nathan Renquest - There went that color again. The kiss was almost too much for him, though he didn't go so far as to let go of her hand yet. All the worse when she had to go and ask something like this. Alone in her bed, no less!? It was all so terribly embarrassing. "What..!? no... no no no. Hardly anything of that sort." he chuckled awkwardly again. "Between my work and Miss Kaori's work I've barely found time to meet anyone new at all, much less court anyone." he grinned sheepishly again. "B..Besides... I couldn't." Couldn't what, exactly? Odd thing to say. Oh well. Searching for something encouraging. "Well, I did Meet the Duchess. That was all very exciting. Also, they moved my office out of the Kitchen! I was getting terribly tired of the smell of boiled cabbage."

Anulia of Amora - Had she known a kiss would make him so nervous, she might have held back. He deserved it though! She laughed, not at him, but the chuckle crossed with a giggle made her soft tone linger. ``Live can not be so busy Nathan! You must live! You are doing all work and no play, which can make you more nervous and edgy around people. Ooo, the Duchess is great. Ew...well look bright side all around. Why can you not court someone? What stops you? It is not as if you are not a handsome male. Look at this face! Had I been a younger woman..and...well shared he color of your skin, I would want tons of babies from you!`` she teased, though she was serious about most of it.

Nathan Renquest - Oh god, his face turned a shade so red it might as well have been violet, and the words choked in his throat, and he suddenly found himself nearly upside down he was so disoriented "Well.. I.. that... I mean. I just... you..." What do you even say to that. Given the location they were in he resolved to look anywhere but her. Better that he viewed such a statement completely out of context. He was practically squirming. A question like that, from a woman like Anulia no less! "I just... Look, I don't even know how to Court anything. I.. I just figured the time will be right and I'll meet the right woman." Was she saying she wanted to sleep with him? The thought practically paralyzed him with fear. "I just... you know." he wasn't even sure he knew, and looked at her, mortified by the turn the conversation took.

Anulia of Amora - Anulia could not help the bubble of laughter anymore then she could help the bubble of laughter that rose up and spilled from her mouth. ``The way you seem so unsure is charming enough. I promise you this. Not all women want a male who is rough and aggressive. Many like those who are kind, loving and not afraid to show how they care, even if it makes them look like a fool. `` Anulia wrapped a arm around him and pulled him into a side ways hug, making his shoulder and arm press into her breast and the soft corset to put weight on them. ``I will teach you how and be here when you do! Courting can be fun...or so I have seen. I have never really been courted before, but I have helped another with love! Oh...I wish I could tell you that story, but I am sworn to say nothing. Wait..if I leave out the names! Do you write stories? Or only read them? Have you read a story on courting or sex?``

Nathan Renquest - He wondered if this kind of morbid embarrassment was just another facet of befriending Anulia or if it was just his luck that he was subjected to the brunt of it. There was something about being told the finer parts of attracting a wife mingled with offering to help understand it--to say nothing of the not-entirely unpleasant sensation of Anulia's body against his arm, making him all too aware of how well she filled the corset, so to speak. Sufficed to say, the scholar was torn between shifting slightly to minimize contact and not moving at all what that sensation did to him. "C...Can't say that I've read any stories, no." Poor Nathan's voice was an octave higher than normal, and the nature of the conversation barred his usual deflection tatic--asking why it had never occurred was unthinkable. "I... ah, don't think I'll be writing much of this for posterity. It's.. not exactly something a Scholar would want recorded for history, or anything. " Oh yes, and on this day, I learned how to properly court a Lady from a Wild-woman because I have absolutely no experience in the matter whatsoever. Considerably less than flattering. "R...Really though, Anulia, you don't have to... I.. *ahem* wouldn't want to impose..."

Anulia of Amora - Why was Nathan so nervous? It was not hard to see how his eyes stayed away from her and looked every where, any where else. Why was it when she hugged him in a friendly gesture, he seemed to become more stiff? Nathan did not seem like the type of male who would be unkind to Anulia, even as a friend. He seemed gentle, like Lucius, smart like Aman-ud-Din though not strong and aggressive as Maahes or Eamonn. Anulia kept him close and reached her small hand around to rub his back. Maybe that would help ease him? ``Nathan, it is no trouble at all. I would love to see you happy, maybe in love..perhaps having children! Though..of course it all depends on if you want to even have a wife. I know some men would rather....what was the word I heard? Fork...funk....no no! f**k!`` she yelled rather loudly as it dawned on her that she in fact knew the right word. ``Yes, would rather f**k a woman of the brothel then actually have a wife.``

Servant Mary Twice - At the moment of such a wonderful pronunciation of a word so vulgar, a servant girl was passing by with a basket of washed and folded clothes. It was rare to know the woman of dark skin was in. So when such loud word came from her room, the poor girl was startled and paused by the door to stare at it wide eyed. She could not help it... who else would really be in the room. Finding some form of need to expand on her knowledge of the room, she moved closer to the door and leaned a ear against it, hearing the jungle woman ranting about 'would rather f**k a woman of the brothel then actually have a wife'. Was Anulia now working at the brothel?! And bringing her men here! For shame! She gasped, even as she held her ear to the door. How she wished she could become a bug and climb under the door.

Anulia of Amora - ``I did not take you for that kind of male, but if that is what you would like, I will help you with that too. Mate, but without having children.`` Anulia smiled wide, showing him there was no shame in wanting that. Her healthy teeth showed beyond darker and full lips.

Nathan Renquest - Strangely, her attempts to soothe him both worked and didn't--it wasn't that he didn't mind the affection, far from it, but the contact itself was well, more than a little unsettling in and of itself, forcing him to try and keep his eyes on her, which seemed to take considerable effort on his behalf--like his head was literally attached to a band and he had to hold it keep it that way.--which lasted precisely as long until she screamed obscenity, which practically made him jump out of his skin entirely, surprised and snapped out of his revere. Oh lord, did she actually think he was that kind of person!? and such vulgarity! He almost felt light-headed! the reply bubbled up frantically. "Oh no, no no no no!" he held up his hand to ward off the idea. "No, no, I... I think I most certainly would want a wife, some day. I...I really don't think he could ever..." well, actually he didn't think he could ever if he really thought about it right now, but there'd be a time for feeling foolish later. "H...Honestly though, I...I'm really not that kind of person. That could... *ahem* You know... Take the services of a Courtesan or anything like... that."*ahem* What he wouldn't give for a decent way to change the subject!

Anulia of Amora - Anulia was the type of woman that got a hold of a topic and talked about it for a long time, more so when she was interested greatly. A few times, people had tried to make her understand, there were some topics that should not be spoken about in public, but they were not in public! Nathan jumped and Anulia jumped as well, even pulling back so she was not pressed into his body anymore and space was given again. ``You are so jumpy!`` She laughed, though in a kind way as her hand still rubbed his back, feeling his spine and shoulder blades through the material. There was no gripping, just the tender slide of the palm flat against the surface to create some eased heat from friction.

Servant Mary Twice - Outside, the servant girl had left, when she could barely hear the man's response. She sighed, wanting to hear more, but the basket's weight reminded her what her duties were. Wait until she spoke to the women in the kitchen! What interesting gossip!

Anulia of Amora - ``It is alright Nathan. I am going to call you Nate...is that ok? I am glad you are not that type of person. I have seen a wedding for the first time..a small private one and it was so beautiful. Why..this bed we now sit on, now holds the memories of a couple in love and just recently married, because they had no where else to go since their marriage is a secret. Oh...`` She gushed and stopped rambling before she gave away who those people were. ``Nate! Are you a virgin still?``

Nathan Renquest - Oh thank whatever God saw fit to give mercy. He could take Anulia's touch, at least to a point, without feeling so terribly nervous, and his shoulders seemed to sink considerably. Why, the soothing sensation along his spine was downright comfortable, now that he wasn't thinking too closely about the rest of her! Perhaps in hindsight though Anulia shouldn't have told him about what was done on the bed--why that alone was enough to make him fidget, looking at the bed suddenly as if might get up and crawl! Lord, his face was going to stay this shade at this point! "N...Nate's fine. Nate's... uh, fine..." and than came the question. Oh lord, that question. It was enough to make him stop worrying about the bed and instead look at Anulia with an expression that was curiously blank--mainly because her question had evoked so many emotions that it all but overwhelmed his poor little face and left it with an expression similar to a man who was about to be struck by a cannonball might have looked. "...I... still... have my virtue, yes." It would take considerable amount of efforts to even get Nate to say that word--ironic that he had people asking this question a lot lately. Oh lord, why did admitting this to her feel so much more terribly embarrassing?

Anulia of Amora - Anulia gave a soft noise of happiness when he said Nate was fine. She liked it! Even a small wiggle of her hips was given on the bed as if she were a child again. It was Nate's face and how it changed from looking to the bed as if it would do something, to looking at her instead with a whole new expression. It made her stop being so giddy about being able to simply talk to someone and truly look at him. Why were people ashamed of such a thing? ``Virtue? I don't know this word.. I learn a lot of new words each day, but not this one. I don't think I have..I assume it means the same thing yes? Well, that is good...very good. A friend once told me that he would not lay with anyone, but his wife on their wedding day and after that, because if she was coming to their bed as a virgin, why would he not as well? He believes that it is right to share such a gift with each other and each other alone for love. Sounds so wonderful, does it not? I to, have my..virtue..if that is the word which means am untouched by man. Oh..I have such a short story to tell you. I was once a high priestess, and that meant no male would ever mate with me or let me give them children. An interesting life, to say the least!`` She sighed contently and laid onto her side, pulling her hand from Nathan, though the shift had her now looking at his back and the back of his head. ``When I was a high priestess, I had to watch couples mate for the first time, as a blessing. They seem to have so much fun. You know..I have had a few men tell me they feel lust around me. I have never felt that before. Have you? What do you think lust feels like?``

Nathan Renquest - "Ah.. in this particular instance it means the same thing, yes." Given the subject matter he felt trying to explain the nuance of the word would only complicate matters, though finding they were in, that, at least similarly experienced soothed him, at least a little, he even managed so they could look at each other whilst she relaxed, pulling one leg up to sling over his other on the bed. "That... that is a very romantic notion. I do... rather like it." She had told him her days as a High Priestess before, but not that she had to watch them Mate, which brought some color. Oh, the very thought of it! He couldn't bear such a thing even for a moment, he was sure his heart would give out! He was about to ask a more poignant question--but there she went, right on cue, asking him about a terrible thing! The question seemed to collapse with the impulse of her laid out in repose, which was enough to make him bloody fidget again! "Ah... well... that's.. an interesting question, actually." and when in doubt, retreat to scholarly definitions. "I... I mean, philosophers have debated the subject for a while--particularly its relation to.. well, you know, Love at first sight, and the like. I...I suppose you would define it as.. a kind of... ah, very physical urge, one that... ah, countermands the rational... that is to say, over-rides thought. A... pressing need..." and she'd never once felt anything like that? Lord, he'd met Nuns that couldn't make that claim! "Y..You really haven't? Not once?"

Anulia of Amora - Oh good, she was glad it meant the same thing. A new word! It was....romantic. She was not too sure about what romance was, save stories from others. That was how much of Anulia's learning came from. People spoke strangely here, and they spoke too fast. It was interesting and the note of the leg shifting in a stance she had seen too many times, she thought he was finally relaxing. As he spoke, no matter how scholar it might seem. Anulia could follow, as long as it was words that she could understand and had heard before. Propping head up in the palm of her hand and placing her elbow into the bed for comfort. ``A pressing need? No, to be honest I have never craved flesh, nor to lay with someone. I do not know why, perhaps because I have seen it and seen that it does not last long. I have held the label of a mate before, but the mately duties, were never preformed. It left me untouched. Even when I was a mate, I did not crave it as I should.... perhaps..`` Her tone lowered. Almost soft like a whisper. ``Perhaps..that is why I was not a good mate and a child, was never made.`` Anulia's face was somber, though calm.

Nathan Renquest - "Well.. I ah, maybe you're just used to the subject. I mean, you have experience." he replied, awkwardly enough. Really this conversation was getting worse by the minute. He felt almost painfully embarrassed to feel anything about her in such fashion! He ought to be ashamed! "I'm sure that's not true, Anulia..." he frowned slightly as he turned. "Look, not being overwhelmed by lust should be... well I would imagine myself that actually makes for a better love in some respects.. I mean... granted, alright, the two are inseparable to a point, but perhaps it's simply that you haven't... you know, cared deeply enough about a person. I ... I suppose that's what's sort of kept my virtue. I...I really can't imagine being so intimate with a stranger, myself." he waved his hand and blushed dissuasively--good lord, what did it sound like he was trying to do here? the very thought made his face turn red suddenly... "I think... Miss Anulia... that it's really a matter of time before you find something and that person... well, I think they'll be a very lucky person indeed." he felt like a sap just for saying it. Lord. he sounded like a sap and he wanted something. It couldn't get much worse than this. To make it worse, he actually reached out and squeezed her hand, faintly reassured, before realizing how badly this could all be taken and withdrew it.

Anulia of Amora - She had experience with seeing and hearing about it, but not physically. Still looking to the back of his head, she listened to his words. Nathan was smart, smarter then she was, but then again he was a writer and it made sense for he was a scholar. He was pleasant and softly spoken often. He actually talked as well! Sometimes it was hard to get people to talk...just talk. ``Those sound like good reasons to not give yourself to someone. I was mated to a man, who at first was a stranger, but then became a friend. I think, sex tends to complicated things. Not if you are in what people call a marriage.`` Pausing, she felt his hand upon her own. Soft, though firm. Nathan did not have working hands, but they were a male's without a doubt. Anulia, took his words as a compliment, not as something more, though what if they were? Pushing her frame up, so she was sitting up and could look at him in his face. It did not matter if it was the side profile of it, she just wanted that contact of sorts. ``I think you are right Nathan...no.. I know you are right. As I was before, so I am now, not in a rush to be with someone.`` She had a offer, one that seemed right, but was it? ``Thank you Nathan. You are good with words... perhaps one day, you will find something to write with?``

Nathan Renquest - "Or something to write for." he responded almost wistfully. It might have not made much sense, but the idea was significant to him. Someone who might cherish what he wrote and a land that would use it for the right reason--not simply lock it away to be read by the elite, preaching to a proverbial choir. or at least that's how he dreamed it. The thought, encouraging in its own, pushed away from some of the skittish nature of the Scholar and an expression, warm and genuine flashed his way. "But thank you Anulia. I take that as high compliment from a woman like you." Perhaps she thought herself smarter, but Nate in some ways was not convinced of that fact. She might not have had vocabulary, but she was insightful in a way he himself found near envious. No, Anulia was more clever than she realized, in some ways more clever than he could hope to be--or so he believed. Sensing there an underlying sentiment, he started to glance about as if remembering himself and started to pull himself from the bed--perhaps that was why Anulia had laid down, after all, growing weary after the conversation. "Ah, perhaps I should let you get some rest, I know things.. haven't been easy... ah--and thank you. Truly. I've been... well I've been troubled lately and... I'm a long way from home. It feels good... I mean, to just.. talk."

Anulia of Amora - Anulia cared for Nathan and what he might want to be. Most people, were either what they wanted or working hard to become what they wanted. Anulia did not really know what she wanted to be, she was just fine with being a tenderess. ``You are welcome. I say things I mean, for I am a simply woman.`` When he pulled away from the bed and stood. She watched him, smiling wide at him as she sat up straight and stood herself. ``You can come to talk to me any time you wish, no matter what the hour. I don't sleep well and a conversation is cherished.`` Moving towards him, she gave him a tight hug, then released him and moved for the door. Opening it wide, she watched him as he moved for it. ``Nathan...are you..what you want to be? I mean..do you have other goals that you wish to do? Maybe next time, you can share with me what they are?``

Nathan Renquest - Anyone who actually knew Nate would be surprised to see him return the hug so readily. His time on the island was clearly changing him, but regardless of other feelings on the subject, he found himself feeling considerable affection for the woman, and it seemed only natural--Kaori was largely the same with him, blushing faintly at the offer she'd given. In the context, it seemed strange. "Oh-uh, I was about to..." he blushed again as he hurried through what he planned to say, finding himself tied in knots just saying it. "I was going to say.. because of the circumstances, I'm not staying far from here.. In the castle I mean. I... I had meant to offer, should you... I mean should you feel the need to after a difficult night.. I'm just.." he tried to indicate it with his hands with a few vague directions, but winded up just confusing himself. "N...Not that I'm implying anything, mind you! I just meant.. if you needed to talk. U...Used to late nights you know." his face finally returned to some semblance of a normal color than, heading to the doorway afterward. Now, that last question--that was considerably more difficult. In some ways of course he was--in others...? Well, it felt complex. The very question seemed to strike him dead, stopping him at the doorway a moment, and he smiled, a vague, near unreadable one. "Right... Next time, then. Certainly. Uh, Good night, Anulia..."

Anulia of Amora - Anulia did not miss what he said, though what was he about to say or do? Anulia was on edge, leaning forward to wait for him to say what it was. Narrow brows rose as she watched him. What was he trying to offer her? He was so red! She remained quiet and kept her face calm, even with a hint of a smile so as to silently egg him on to say it. Anulia was rarely offended, most of the time she did not even get it! He had no need to fear or worry and if so, Anulia had no fears to just simply ask. Oh...talk! ``I would love it! And be warned, I will take you up on such a offer!`` She wanted to ask why he was so red all the time, but she felt that best for another night. ``Goodnight my friend! Nate..`` She closed the door when he was out of the doorway and heading down the hall. It was a eased shut, only to farther how gentle she was.

Servant Mary Twice - That very same servant girl was heading back down the hallway and saw as the boy moved out and rambled on about such things. She paused, with only the candle light to her side to show her. At first, she did not see his face, but the lean frame of him. It was only when he passed, she hurried with a small courtesy as he walked by, sneaking a glimpse of his face before she kept moving, resisting the urge to look back at him.

FINITE

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