Small Talk & The Proposal

[jelenahdvorak]

Defective Beauty (12:16:02 AM): The day had been long and interesting to say the least. Weather had been pleasant and her run of errands with Bess and Eirian earlier today had long been over due. She had needed the time with them like she had enjoyed in the days of Orkney. However, now Jelenah could be found walking the streets of Turas Lan, wanting to enjoy the freedom from castle walls, dimly lit halls and dark rooms. She needed a breathe of fresh air and though she had been with Lady Bess and Eirian earlier today she still felt the need to be outside. The golden blonde was worried about something as it was obvious while she chewed on her bottom lip a moment. Steps came to a stop and she seem to be in deep thought while gazing down a time. Her eyes watching the fidgeting of cloth between small hands and the pads of fingers. A pause made in the action as she let one hand break away long enough to tuck a few of those wispy strands behind a dainty ear. The Slavic woman would then be back on her way. <d

Sardonic Whim (12:17:28 AM): He had an affinity for the night. So much could go on in the dark, and yet there was still the pale face of the moon illuminating the world with her mellow silver light. This eve in early spring found the celestial Goddess playing a game of hide and seek within the bosom of the clouds that shared her sky. He had ventured out this eve with no greater purpose than to think over the situation he found himself in. Really there was little to think about, he knew what he had to do. Still beneath the dark velvet of the sky, with it's gaudy twinkling gemlike stars, he could pretend there was a light heart beating within his chest. As it was the norm for him, he moved silently, keeping to the shadows where he can. Occasionally Luna would peek out from behind her blanket and the light would catch the gold of an earring, the pearl white of an unconscious smile, or the deep blue silk of his shirt. For the most part however, he was undetectable, and that was the way he liked it for the time being. It was in his rambling walk that he noted a lone figure before him. Her coloring more suited to picking up the stray light from the heavens. This did not help the wicked curve of his smile, if anything it fed that impudent grin and with easy actions he approached the unsuspecting girl that he had met a few evenings back. A single rose, overblown with bloom and a strange orange color that was marked with yellow in the bowl of each petal was produced. He moved like a specter, almost seeming to materialize behind her, while running the delicate petals across her right cheek in route to presenting her with it. "Beautiful Evening, is it not?" He chuckled softly.. [e]

Defective Beauty (12:26:20 AM): Jelenah blinked and would make a light wave of her hand when she felt something brush across her cheek. First she thought it to be another wild wisp of hair or perhaps something dancing along the stage of the wind and crashing into her soft cheek. Then she heard his voice and saw the rose being presented to her. A hand went to her chest as she gasped slightly and took two steps back. Her pale blue eyes giving a gazing sweep of his face. The small woman looked from his eyes as well as his smile and back to the rose. The small hand would reach out for it, taking it with caution as if thinking he might be trying to pull some sort of trick or lure her in to danger. Once she had it, she held it close, lifting it to her nose and giving a slight sniff of the flowers fragrance. Her pale blue eyes lifting as nose was lowered to the petals and she would reply. " Most nights are..." The Slavic accent heavy as she spoke yet her voice itself was soft, harmonious and melodic like. Bess often told her she was like that of an angel both in voice and in appearance.As the flower was lowered away, she canted her head slightly, gazing at the man in a sideways manner as if trying to figure him out. Full lips parted and she spoke once more. "Mateo...yes?" Asking to see if she remembered his name correctly. <d

Sardonic Whim (12:35:18 AM): As she spoke his name he moved gracefully to sweep a deep and courtly bow in her direction. "Yes, Madonna Jelenah. I am indeed Mateo, and as ever at your service." He came back up with equally elegant motion, before his body melted into it's normal casual self assured posture. "It is of course a great pleasure to see you again, and in such a beautiful light." He motioned grandly at the moon, who had dared to emerge from the clouds to illuminate the general area about them. Surely she would vanish again, just as quickly.. but for now she was cooperating beautifully. "What has you out about, enjoying the new spring weather perhaps?" He looked in the direction she had been heading in. "Or were you on your way back from some grande fete?" He offered her an arm, "If you would like I can easily serve as an escort for you. For the night, while beautiful, can often hold dangers for so bella a madonna. I would not be able to live with myself if something should befall you, and I had not been there to keep the evil at bay." [e]

Defective Beauty (12:43:03 AM): The Lady In Waiting would watch as he did what she thought an over rated bow but it did bring a brief smile to her lips as the humor of it teased the air of her lungs, nearly bringing forth a hint of laughter. "Really Sir Mateo, your words are to kind for the like of a woman such as me." Jelenah had never really been one to be so accepting of comments or anything of the sorts that gave her praise. Being on the opposite end of those type things for so long, one becomes to believe such. Her gaze shifted from him and she looked skyward at the moon in her high position, yet shielded from the curtain of clouds at times. She looked back t o the man of dark hair and skin and replied to his inquiry. " I had been out enjoying the late time of day. And now, I was on my way to the tavern." He offered her an arm as he spoke of being her escort as so any threats of danger could be warded off. A question she asked herself then was is he dangerous? She looked around as the city streets became nearly empty and knew that dangers did indeed await to make their presence. Those eyes shifted back to him and hesitantly she accepted his offer. With the flower in one hand she slipped her arm within his and would remember her place as to let the man lead where a lady was to go. Today had been filled with many lessons, one in particular seem to trouble her more so than others. The concern on her face had vanished as Mateo had caught her off guard and deterred her attention from it for this long. However, it had now came back and perhaps the man could see it or detect it if he paid close attention. Then again, Jelenah was pretty good at hiding things...she had adapted to do so her whole life. <d

Sardonic Whim (12:56:10 AM): He reached over to reposition her arm over his own. His hands were those of an artist, and yet it was clear he was someone who worked with his hands. The callouses seemed to be more prevalent against his fingertips, and his grip was warm. Whether she was unsure or not, he was used to working with those who had either little trust in him, little trust in people in general, or little trust in themselves. Such was the way of horses, and he prided himself on this as well as his affinity with women. Of course, she'd not know this. He had been in this place long enough to have figured out the general layout of it. And so, he'd begin guiding her to the Inne that she had mentioned. After all, the spring was not so old that it had taken every hint of chill from the air. And a mug of rum or a good glass of wine would not be unwelcome to him at this hour. His voice would speak out again, the same mellow baritone that it always was carried a note that could almost be called caressing ... if words could actually touch a person. "Cara-mia... It is said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I have beheld you this evening, in the light of the moon. And if I could harness great Luna herself so that she'd always be there to grace you in her light, I would. It suits you like it does no other and turns you into something much more than the mere woman that you believe yourself to be." He turned then to face her, and drew up her hand to his lips. "Do not laugh madonna, for what I say is true. Perhaps not to you, but to this humble man it is so." He paused a moment to allow his lips to gently pass over her knuckles before he brought her hand to his heart. She could easily feel the heat beneath the silk, and perhaps even if it was just imagined the heartbeat which must surely be beating behind the cage of his ribs. "For in the glow of the moon, you are a Goddess. And I am honored, to be allowed to escort such a rare and wonderful creation of moonlight, and beauty anywhere she would like. Whether it be a humble Inne, or the palace of a sultan. Whatever her wish might be, I can only hope to serve it, and serve it well." He moved her hand back onto his forearm, as he once more turned her in the direction of the Inne. A soft smile curving his lips. [e]

Defective Beauty (1:09:40 AM): She looked down as his larger hand took her arm and repositioned it over his own. She looked to him and smiled briefly before eyes fell upon his hands once more. She knew the hands of a worker when she saw them. Not just from the palms but from the backs of the hands as well. They could be just as worn and weathered in appearance as the other part. The small woman of five feet and five inches was one that had little confidence in herself and little trust in others. However, with each passing day she was growing more bolder....little at a time but more than she had been before. They began walking in the direction of the Inne and he spoke. She looked to him while being mindful of her steps. Her cheeks began to flood with color as Mateo continued to compliment her with so many kind words. When he paused in his steps and in guiding her, the man turn to face her before continuing. He drew her hand to his lips, pressing the tiers to her knuckles and then he placed her hand on his chest. Her fingers curled as her hand readied itself to retract.Just before doing so, she had felt the beat of his heart and the warmth that radiated from his body through that blue silk shirt. She shook her head then as she told herself that he meant no harm, or so she hoped. That he did not know being as bold as he had in guiding her hand the way he had, triggered terrible memories. The closeness of a man accompanied that fear and she stepped back a moment licking her lips and looked to him. The look on her face would tell the man she was fighting an inner battle with herself. One of what she had feared and the logic of the truth. That same hand he had held, rested flat against her chest as she turned from him for a moment, trying to regain her composure. She turned back to him and licked her lips again before speaking."My apologies Mateo... There are things that ... trouble me. They trouble my mind ... things of my past and I hope you understand. It is nothing personal against you." She hoped she had not offended him, often others did not know how to take her and usually just turned on their heels, leaving her behind. Something she had grown use to and did not hold against anyone if they chose to do so. <d

Sardonic Whim (1:20:18 AM): "Do not apologize Madonna, there is no need." He again offered her his hand, waiting to see if she took it. He would not touch her again, until she gave him leave. "It is I who must apologize, for I did not know that it brought back unfortunate memories... You must know, that I would not do so for the world, and am deeply sorry that I have." There was more he could have said or offered. Maybe even wanted to, but he knew better than to rush someone who had obviously had a bad experience in the past. "Though ... if there is anything that I could do for you, just know ... all you have to do is ask." He'd leave it at that, and await her choice. His smile gone for the moment, as concern had replaced the expression on his features. [e]

Defective Beauty (1:26:10 AM): She swallowed hard as she looked to see he was again offering his hand. She looked to his eyes and the expression on her face was one that obviously showed she was surprised. He was still standing here, still offering to her his hand, and even apologized himself. She took a deep breathe and nodded as slowly her fingers reached out to his and hand had fully slipped within his own. She dared herself to look at him now as she felt somewhat ashamed of herself for likely making them both feel uncomfortable. "Your apology, though it is not necessary...it is accepted." She said as she finally lifted her gaze to his.She then nodded as his words echoed in her ears and through her mind. " I will keep that in mind if and when a time should arise." The golden blond woman would offer a smile that was both apologetic and sympathetic in nature. <d

Sardonic Whim (1:31:53 AM): He smiled softly to her, then took her hand within his with a squeeze. They began to walk again, this time, he playfully shoved into her. It was a light bump, and obvious one that was meant to lighten the mood. Obviously, he was not uncomfortable, just worried about her own levels of that emotion. "It will be all right, cara mia, just wait and see. Life is to be lived for the moment, everything else can wait until another day." When they got to the Inne he opened the door for her, ushering her inside before leading her to a table near the center of the room so she did not feel as though he was trying to cut her off from the rest of the crowd. With a call behind his shoulder to the barmaid he ordered a bottle of fine wine and two glasses to go with it. "I do not suppose that you are also hungry?" He'd have no issue ordering food as well as spirits, if she wished it. [d]

Defective Beauty (1:37:53 AM): His smile to her would only have her own grow a little more broader. As they walked once more he would playfully shove himself into her and she looked to him as if he were crazy and continued to smile. When he reassured her that things would be all right she nodded. Jelenah had not been like this always, as she had come out of her shell sometime ago. However, as life altered her path and people left her, she seem to retreat back into that quiet place within. They reached the Inne and Mateo was very polite in opening the door for her, considerate as he then chose a table within the middle of the room and offered her both wine and food. Hands settled into her lap beneath the wood of the table as she was leaning forward some. " I will gladly accept whatever it is you wish to offer." Would simply be her reply. The Slavic woman was not picky when it came to drinks and food.<d

Sardonic Whim (1:41:15 AM): .....He could not very well kill the grin when she said that, his eyes cutting to her unable to hide the mischief or the brief look of open lust. "Ah... Madonna, I am not sure that you mean such a thing, so I shall be kind and pretend that it was not offered, si?" He chuckled softly, and called to the wench to bring them a fresh loaf of bread, grapes, and a wedge of cheese. In short order these things were laid out before them. While he poured the wine he spoke. "So, why is it so that you have traveled all this way from your homeland to Skye?" Her accent was a dead give away, along with the manners that were not consistent with the general brashness of most Celtic people (especially those who wielded arrows!) [d]


Defective Beauty (1:47:00 AM): She glanced up and saw that grin upon his face. A single blond brow would arch as she was curious to know what that grin meant. When he spoke, it was all to obvious and well that would truly have the woman's cheeks turn to bright red as she tried to focus her attention elsewhere until she felt the color had left. When she deemed it so, she looked back to him and to the wench as the order was place before them. Once the woman had taken her leave Mateo had asked why she traveled from her home to here. She glanced down, fidgeted with the cloth of her dress and looked back to him as she prepared to reply. " I did not leave my village on my own accord. I was taken from it..." She chose her words carefully. Her eyes looked to him hoping he would know what she meant, but if she needed to be more specific she would. It did not bother her as much now to speak to others about how she came to be where she was at the given time or place. <d
(-smirks @ the arrows comment then acts all innocent like-)

Sardonic Whim (1:55:21 AM): He wouldn't press more than that, after all it pretty much said it all. Besides it would be wrong to press her on something that bothered her. Admittedly, there was also the knowledge that the more they poked at it, the more it would consume the evening. Better not to dance in front of a rattling snake, than to continue to prod it till it bit. He offered her a glass of wine. "To all the things that we wish upon in dreams. That one day, we wake, and find them true." He had picked up his own glass and clinked it gently to hers. "And of course, to new friends." He brought his glass up and took a hearty drink before returning it to the table so that he could munch upon a few grapes. Each little globe picked from it's stem, then tossed into his mouth. Each one popped with a satisfying crunch against his teeth and he savored the fresh burst of juice that complimented the wine that remained on his palate. "Tell me then, mia bella donna. Tell me something that you've never told another, a dream, a wish, something nonsensical that you never dared to put much stock in but would one day love to find come to light." [d]

Defective Beauty (2:02:16 AM): Jelenah accepted the wine from him with a smile as he spoke his kind words on dreams, them coming true and new friends. Her glass clinked against his and she would take a sip of her own. She held it within her mouth a moment before finally swallowing it. She held the stem of the glass within her fingers as the butt of it rested on the table. She watched as Mateo began to take part of the food and fingers left the glass so that she might do the same. As she savored the tartness of the grapes she smiled shyly at his wanting to know something of her secrets. She sat a moment and pondered as eyes cut towards the rafters. "I honestly do not know... " She paused as she looked at him. "Perhaps swim in the ocean under the cover of night with someone I would sneak out to see" She chuckled and shook her head. "Silly ... You'd think me foolish" Though there was more to that dream or wish that she would leave out, particularly because it would bring another rush of color to her cheeks. Not to mention that sort of thing was not so openly discussed with..well.. a man and a stranger at that. <d

[jelenahdvorak]

Sardonic Whim: One dark brow lifted as she spoke, though his dark eyes for now watched what her fingers were doing with the stem of her glass. Such simple things could speak volumes about a person and he savored such nuances. Deftly he pulled three more grapes from the vine, and popped them one by one into his mouth. Relishing the sweet crunch of them between his teeth he allowed her words to turn over within his mind for a moment before he shook his head slowly. "You are wrong." His eyes lifted then to meet hers, dark as an abyss in the low light of the Inne. "Si, there is nothing to be seen as silly in those dreams. How could I find you foolish for having a heart that yearns for more than what life is? Who does not wish for such things?" He chuckled softly, "Though some might believe such a state is attainable, it is Desire itself that causes us to go on. She is a powerful thing, si?" To him Desire must be a she,at least it made sense to him. As she blushed he reached out, and with the pads of two fingers lifted her chin again. "Be free, cara. There are no bonds here, and life is too short to be worried about another man's approval." [d]

Defective Beauty: As she had gazed down with that blush, she felt his the pads of his fingers lift her chin so that she would meet his gaze. His words were sweet in thought, but to be free...truly free from all bonds would take a lot of work for this little woman. There were so many...bonds from the horrible nightmares she had of still being on that slavers ship. Visions that haunted her rest of the screams, the moans of pain and the sting of whips to flesh. Then there were the bonds of fear, fear that it would happen again even though much time had passed since those days. Perhaps even fear of being free like she had come so close to doing only to have her heart broken and making her slid back into that hole within herself for what she thought was protection. Protection from both a physical state and the emotional state. She would simply nod and slowly retracted her chin from his touch. A quick glance elsewhere made as she told herself he was right, before looking to the glass of wine and reaching for it once more. When she did, the cuff of her sleeve slid back, revealing the all to horrible site of the Slavic woman's past. Her wrists though healed were deeply scared from the constant binding of ropes and steel shackles. They left their impressions deep within her fair skin and in her mind. Glass was lifted and brought to full lips for a sip before the glass was returned to its spot upon the table and she then reached for a few grapes. <d

Sardonic Whim: He picked up on things, it was part of his job. Always vigilant, always watching looking for signs to help him get where he needed to be. This of course also had other applications, and it allowed him to seize upon facts that at times might not be clear to others. It also did not hurt to run with others who had borne such marks, scars, brands, and other deformities that marked them as chatel, criminals, or those unfortunate enough to find themselves on the wrong side of a cruel Lord or Lady. Thus far, he'd kept himself clear of any bodily reminders of his scrapes, and he preferred it that way. He wasn't stupid enough to say this aloud, but he also knew that it was better not to ask nor give undue attention to the marks she wore. He sipped his wine, knowing that this girl was no criminal... She was far too meek, unless that was a ruse, or more likely she was stealing for someone else. Then again, by her reaction to him as a male... It was more likely she attracted the attention of someone who wanted her in ways she was not willing to be apart to. Ahh... the inner workings of his mind! Still, once he swallowed he gave her a effortless grin, ever the rake his voice would be as smooth as honey. "Of course... I suppose you would do well to blush if said person you want to go swimming with in the moonlight is me..." [d]

Defective Beauty: Pale blue hues like that of skies atop the highest of mountains looked to him as she chewed the grapes she had plucked and she blinked several times. Indeed his words would have a rush of color come about her cheeks and she sort of coughed a bit. Grabbing her glass and taking a drink to wash down what seem to get stuck and she grinned before looking away and back to him. "Sir.. I just met you. " Was all she could think of to say. However, the thought of such created a brief image within her mind and on the inside she smiled, outside to him he wouldn't know. Jelenah told herself that the man was not at all a terrible sight, but one that was welcomed. Even though he was of dark skin, dark hair and dark eyes, he looked nothing like the men that had caused her and her people so much grief. This brought about a couple questions. " So, tell me Sir Mateo ... what is it that you do and what brings you to Skye?" Obviously it was an attempt to change the subject so that color from her cheeks would fade more. <d

Sardonic Whim: He chuckled good naturedly at her reaction, his eyes glinting with mischief or candlelight. "Ah, the question that I knew was coming..." These words flowed easily in his heavy accent. "I am if you will a trader of sorts." His smile was slightly self depreciating at that, before it livened up as he leaned over. "Between you and me.." And here his voice dropped into something softer, "It is more of an excuse to be able to see the world, si?" He leaned back then, his hand cavalierly balancing his wineglass within it. "It gets so dreary staying too long in any place, and it is a world made to be seen!" He sipped his drink, before raising the cup to her... "And as I see it, it has many benefits ... such as meeting beautiful creatures like yourself."He gave her a slight grin, then downed the rest of his drink. [d]

Defective Beauty: Blond brows would arch in curiosity as she awaited his reply and slowly they would lower back into their normal state as his words were heard. She nodded and smiled as he told her he was a trader. "What sort of things is it that you trade?" The little woman asked as she seem to lean up becoming more interested in the man and his words. She could do nothing but smile at his compliment to her being a beautiful creature. "Perhaps if it is something I think M'Lady Duchess would be interested in, I could arrange a meeting between the two of you?" She offered. Skye could always use more people like himself to bring both familiar and unfamiliar things to the Isle. She then watched as he downed the rest of his drink and she smiled softly as a hand moved forth to take up a piece of cheese. Slowly the pearly white teeth would sink into the softness of it and a bite was taken. She sat back a little more and enjoyed its taste and texture before washing it down with another sip of her wine. <d

Sardonic Whim: He chuckled softly, as the evening went in a direction he had not been expecting. This by no means was a bad thing, just something different. Leaning back in his chair, he reached out to idly refill her glass then his own. "Ah,now there's an interesting question..." He set the bottle down, and reclaimed his glass. "I deal primarily in jewelry, rare jewels, and clothe... Sometimes there are other things such as spices, perfumes, clothing, and weapons... And rarer still, fine horses who are in my humble opinion worth more than the rest combined." He gave a light shrug of one shoulder, causing a careless lock of hair to fall before his face. Snorting softly he reached up to push it back behind one ear. His eyes went again on her, "I have also been known to be able to produce requests, for higher compensation ... of course." He made a vague gesture with his free hand. After all, if someone had something they wanted he could make a game out of getting it... Still it tended to be another's whim and not his own, that he had trouble following. "Why do you ask, is there something that you desire?" [d]

Defective Beauty: "Well, Skye could always use people such as yourself Mateo Sir.. traders in my mind are people that make life interesting. Bringing their goods to those that may be in need of such or linking two or more peoples or places and doing the same." She watched him as he moved to refill their glasses and then push aside the stray strand of dark hair. She was studying him of course but as undetectable as possible. He tugged at her mind, curious of him she was and the strange thing about it, she truly did not know why. "A request? Me... I, well...that is." She furrowed her brows some as she thought on it a moment. Remembering he mentioned horses and weapons she wondered if he would be willing to help her learn both. Bess had enough on her plate with this war, and Lady Eirian was in delicate condition to be doing such, leaving no one really to teach her how to ride horses properly nor how to use weapons. The Lady of this Isle had told her these things were needed and times for such uses of them were fast approaching. "Mateo ..Sir ... perhaps I could speak with M'Lady if you would be interested in teaching me a few things? Like about horses and weapons. That is if of course you are willing?" <d

Sardonic Whim: He took a drink, just so that he could close his eyes while doing so. This woman was, if nothing else... interesting. When he opened his eyes they contained the same amused quality they had beforehand. "I am sure that I can, but do you have a horse? And do you know what weapon that you wish to learn?" He chuckled softly then. "For I will not claim to know them all, nor pretend that I am a warrior..." He knew how to handle a sword, daggers as well. Both so well that some had called him a master of both. The problem was, he believed in the ideal of being a lover not a fighter. Fighting was reserved for those who weren't fast enough to get out of the way, or quick enough to talk themselves out of it. Both things were infinitely more amusing, since nothing pissed off a foe than hitting air and being taunted all the while they tried... Well, that or convincing them they really had no interest in hurting him.He was no coward, it was just another trademark of his people that could not be erased from his DNA, nor would he want it so.[d]

Defective Beauty: "A horse, no ... and weapons... I am afraid not." She frowned as she suddenly felt incompetent. She knew absolutely nothing about either other than horses were animals and used for riding and chores and weapons were many, and used for fighting, defending as well as other purposes she was sure of. Her full lips twisted into a sort of half pucker while chewing the inside of her cheek a moment, thinking on this proposal. She simply wanted to know about these things as to better herself and not be so dependent on others if and when the times came which was sure to occur. " M'Lady and I were to go and choose a horse for me soon. Weapons... I would not know how to use if I were attacked in anyway by those that threaten me. I carry a dagger at times, but mostly just for habit. Never have I used it or had to." She added as she gazed at him across the table. Her elbow came to rest on the top of that table, hand began to twirl the long blond braid that rested just over that shoulder as she spoke and watched. <d

Sardonic Whim: He watched her closely as she spoke, though the whole time appearing relaxed. Listening to her the whole while he sipped and mused over an idea. "Well,... I might have a few ideas, if Madonna will permit me to be so bold... Shall we make it a time and place to meet, where I will bring the items you need? We can discuss a price then if you find it satisfactory, and you might as well bring your mistress as well." He ran his free hand along the right side of his stubbled jaw in thought. Already things were falling into place, after all if she had no preference ... he had a good idea of what she could handle. [d]

Defective Beauty: "Of course...we shall choose a time and place. Meanwhile I will speak with M'Lady and tell her of your talents and the offer I have asked." She nodded, smiling that she had done something good not just for herself but for others. Bess may come to have a good trader, Jelenah would have a trainer of sorts, and Mateo he would have opportunity for making money and perhaps establish himself well while in the Isle. Blue eyes then watched as the man let his free hand run over the stubbled jaw. Her head tilting slightly and turned just a smudge as she continued to watch and study, wondering. Jelenah was not one of much preference when it came to learning things that were needed. Only thing she wanted was to be able to trust those that were close to her and this man was not coming off as any sort of threat. <d

Sardonic Whim: Currently, he was in the possession of a few horses. Discounting the two foals, three under no circumstances would be sold... That left the other two. The Lusitano, was not an animal he'd like to see in the hands of a beginner which left only the one... Who by all reasoning would be a good mount for a child, or an adult who managed to stay this long without learning... The horse had a gentle disposition, and seemed to be able to gauge the needs of whomever rode her... Which, this lady would likely need. Well that was settled along with the rest of it in his mind. "Do you have a time and place we should meet Madonna?" For he was sure he was ready even now ... save a small stop off at his hidden campsite. -fin-

Defective Beauty: As she sat in silence letting her eyes have their fill of the man he spoke and she came back to attention. " I could always send word now.. we can either wait here for her, or travel to the castle and meet within her study or any other chosen room at the Lady's request." She replied. "All I know is that M'Lady Aberdeen said I needed a horse that was gentle and patient, yet strong and fast so as if I were to be in trouble...it would know what to do." She would pause a moment. " If you accept still after the meeting, and things go as well as we hope. You maybe asked to journey with us to the south for the battle." Jelenah didn't want to lead the man into anything that he might not be so willing to go along with or wasn't prepared for. "As far as weapons... I can not see myself with a sword ... but am willing to learn if that is what is called for." <d

Sardonic Whim: He shook his head... "No, I cannot see you with a sword either..." He stood then, leaving coin on the table for the tender. "I shall meet you then, tomorrow eve. Say two hours past the setting of the sun. I will bring the goods, and you will bring your mistress." He bowed low before her, with his customary flourish. "Until then, cara mia." He'd not wait for an answer beyond that, instead he'd stride out into the night to conclude the other business he had... Before he took the winding road home. [d]

Defective Beauty: The Slavic woman would nod and smile as she stood to her feet. "Then I go now to speak with M'Lady." She watched as he said his good-bye and parted. She looked to the tender and smiled. Happy she was as she felt she had truly accomplished something. She would exit the tavern, look for any guards that could be rounding as so to escort her back to the castle. The rose he had given to her earlier in the night was placed within the confines of her golden locks for now. Guard was spotted, she grabbed his attention and asked for him to escort her back to the castle as it was now so very late but there would be one last thing left to do before turning in for the night. <d