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First Meeting

Tamis was in his day off clothes! A dark red hoodie, that exposed his shoulders, biceps and forearms and a pair of tan pants, that clutched his waist and butt! This was good day for the most part. The man's arms were hanging above his head, resting against one of the crossbeams that supported the railing above, his feet hung off the side of the bridge, that spanned across the chasm and river in Queensdale, leading off toward the lush fertile farmlands. Of course.. Tamis had a sword at his side, the Asuran crafted blade hummed when powered on. It sat flat beside him. Who sits with their swords on anymore?

He hummed lightly, his green eyes peered, downward. He looked about finding a small pebble, and he tossed it forward, it whistled through the air before.. kerplunk! Straight into the water. He smirked, finding amusement in the smallest of things. Of course.. that was Tamis Kreg for ya. He whisked his bangs away with a quick jerk motion of his head, the scruff that decorated his jawline and chin. He itched at it and wiggled his nose around, his tan skin glistening in the waning light of the afternoon, that warm orange glow setting fire to the scenery, causing beautiful shades of red, yellow, orange to tone down the other colors.

“Annd.. the season of Scion comes to an end.”

He said lightly, his toes wiggling freely in the cooling air of the day.

~*~

Rova walked along the path beside the running stream of crystal clear water, her hood drawn and her forest green and dark brown leather gear clinging to her form in the most flattering way. Beneath her heeled boots crunched dirt and small stones with each step, and at her side a massive specimen of a Drake Hound trotted along with her. Upon her shoulder sat perched a falcon with a leather falconer's hood upon his head, clearly a trained companion as it sat proudly upon its perch.

She her the splash and the muttering of someone's voice near by and as she rounded the corner, she spotted the handsome young man relaxing on the bridge, the colors of autumn beginning to add life to the surrounding region now off set by the noon day sun. She drew up to the stream, her low cowl hiding most of her face in shadow though she dipped her chin to him lightly in a small greeting before kneeling by the stream, dipping her hands in the rushing cool waters as her hound, Desoto, lapped up a cooling drink. Upon her back was a quiver stocked with arrows, a finely crafted bow upon her back, and upon her hips were finely crafted blades of Ebonhawk.

~*~

Tamis blinked, he offered a signature smirk, the corners of his lips curling for a brief moment before he raised one hand to the side of his mouth.

“ Hey! Nice weapons.” he greeted, what a strange Man.

Tamis wiggled about a little, adjusting in his seat, he watched the companions work within the Stream. His legs continuing to swish side to side. He could tell it was a lady, she had a figure.. that much was obvious. Tamis let out a little huff.

“ How are you?” He called out, making some simple conversation.

Perhaps.. the Man was lonely. Or crazy. He /might/ even be a stalker, though.. he didn't really seem like the sort. He returned to laying forward, his chin against one of the diagonally running beams. He moved his arms to hang from the railing now. Stretching them upwards.

~*~

She looked up when she heard the man call out to her, her face still hidden by the cowl of her hood and when she spoke her voice was soft and low with a near melodic and calm ring to it,

"Thank you... I'm fine...you?"

Her hidden gaze gave the man a practiced once over, curiously, before slowly rising to her feet. He seemed pleasant enough though she wasn't used to random strangers talking to her much. When she turned to face him, it was obvious she spent most of her time in the wilds surrounding Queensdale, dried grass caught and stuck to odd places of her gear, such as the buckles and clasps, grass stains on her knees, her leather gear well worn and weather beaten, and the visible skin he could see was smudged with dirt.

"Tis a nice day....."

~*~

Tamis hummed a little, admiring her clothing, her gear.. the choice of attire she had on, he took note of it all, his gaze running along through the armor. The things she wore. He tightened his britches a little, lifting his rump from his seated position to do so. His fingers quickly fastening a knot in his pants.

“ You must travel a lot.”

Even from this distance, Tamis could tell the minor flaws.. or characteristics, rather of her gear. He chuckled and patted the spot beside him

. “ Come on up! The view is awesome, and I could always use people to talk at.” He flashed his teeth, giving the woman a grin.

“ Tamis Kreg.” He said, it seemed sorta.. out of the blue.

A random outburst, he caught on though.

“ Er.. That's me.” he added quickly, offering the hooded woman a sheepish grin.

“ Sorry. You'll have to excuse me. I'm a Soldier. I know not how introduce myself.” he cave-man spoke. Chuckling.

“ Kidding.” He waved his hand about, as if casting some sort of spell. Though no magic came.

~*~

She blinked. He was quite a curious one. After a moment she nodded and moved across the stream towards him though she sat with a bit of distance between them, Desoto sitting beside her rather then in between them, plopping down to lay and rest.

"A Soldier, hm? Sereph?" she implored, turning her head in his direction though her hood still hid most of her face.

"As for myself....Rova Hode, Bounty Hunter."

She raised her hands to at last draw back her leather hood, revealing at last her sun kissed heart shaped face, shapely lips, and most captivating- her vivid hazel green eyes with flecks of honey brown about her pupils, framed by dark long lashes, jaw length chocolate hued tresses tumbling out of her hood to fall about the side of her face. Her features were weary but alert and she regarded Tamis with a keen curiosity, a little dirt on her cheek and a scrape upon her left brow.

~*~

Tamis, itched at his cheek, right where the dirt marred her face. Subconsciously his hand went to his left brow now.. where her scrape was.

“ Hmmm..Oh! No.. Shining Blade.. Madam.”

He boasted, his hands curled at the wrist, and he struck a 'heroic' post. He puffed his chest out slightly and chuckled.

“Sorry.. “ he said, snickering.

He returned to swinging his legs. “ Rova.. Hode.. Hoad.. Hroad..” he squinted.

“ Never heard of you.”

He smirked and thrust forward a naked hand attempting to give her a handshake.

“ Fancy pet you got there? You name him yet?” Tamis asked, obviously Tamis.. it's a full grown Drakehound.. Gods..

His persistent smile remained, he licked his lips, dampening them for a brief moment, a gentle warm breeze riled his feathery like bangs, and the tail of his hair, he combed his free hand through it, out of his face, exposing his rather handsome features. The curvature of his nose, his strong jawline and soft complexion.

~*~

She considered him as though he were an enigma. After a moment, she glanced down to his offered hand and gingerly accepted it with a shake of her own, small and delicate looking in his,

"I see. That's quite the honor. Pleasure."

She recoiled her hand quickly after the brief shake, her hazel hazel shifting towards the hound napping lazily beside her,

"This is Desoto and this-" she gestured to the falcon upon her shoulder, "Is Tivo."

She brushed her thick hair back from her face though the locks only shifted back to once more curtain half of her features from view. Her vivid gaze roved about the area, taking in the scenic beauty,

"Nor have I heard of you. Different circles we travel it seems." she remarked casually, the calm in her soothing voice never waving.

"I can smell the seasons changing....Nothing compares with the fresh scent of crisping leaves."

~*~

He laughed, returning to focusing upon the scenery.

“ Yea.. well.. I travel in a pack.” He quipped. Snickering.

“ A pack .. or a herd of wild cats. Or so it seems sometimes.” he grinned glancing her way. Seriously Tamis...

His index finger tapped the wood of the crossbeam. He snickered some more.. laughing at his stupid little joke.

“ But, pleasure to meet you three.” He said, giving the group a little nod.

He eyed them all for a moment. “ Well.. a baking apple pie is pretty amazing if I do say so myself.” he tapped his stomach slowly.

“ Fattens me up, but.. it's worth it. No one seems to mind the little jiggle.”

Tamis took in a deep breath, scenting the growing autumn. He smiled at that.

“ What brings you to the river tonight? Boredom? Looking to go swimming?” He assumed the first one was more the case with this woman.

“ And how goes the bounty hunting business anyways? I imagine it's.. tough at times.” He said on a more serious note.

~*~

Her brilliant gaze had shifted back towards him slowly as he began speaking again, the vivid color standing out in stark contrast to her dark hair and tanned skin, her attention rapt upon him,

"Apple pie is good but peach cobbler is better."

She let the corner of her shapely lips curl with a small grin, eyeing him up at the mentioning of a "jiggle",

"And you are hardly what I would consider fat."

Then she bobbed her bare shoulders nonchalantly, looking back towards the water,

"As for what brings me here, was merely passing through. I needed to reprovision before setting out again."

A cloud seemed to pass over her features, a look with a mix between tiredness, anger, and sorrow crossing her face,

"I have...a specific prey I'm hunting for... and I'm close to cornering him."

She blew a tired sigh and ran a hand over her face,

"Just a matter of time. But we needn't speak of such things....."

~*~

Very slowly.. Tamis lofted a brow, his head sorta tipped.

“ Oh? What sort.. of prey are you hunting?”

He managed to squeeze in before she decided to sweep the subject away.

“ Oh.. er.. sorry.” he added afterward.

He gave her a sheepish grin.

“ Need help with it? I'm a pretty good hunter” He said with a nod. “ I can find food.. and.. kittens.. and..gifts! Oh.. I'm pretty good at those.” he gave a single nod, crossing his legs, he offered her a smile, hoping to distract her from whatever was mulling around within her head.

“ But, seriously! If.. you find yourself needing help. I'm.. pretty bored to tears. I work.. and then.. I go home to my small apartment, where I read.. or talk with that creepy old Man I share the place with.” Tamis chuckled.

“ I swear.. he's either a stalker... or he's hiding a bunch of bodies under the place.”

He gave the woman a nod, Scooting back.

“ So! Rova! What do you do.. when you're not hunting.. prey?” he wondered, squinting toward her again. He flipped his bangs away. Habits.

~*~

She merely blinked at him before suddenly chuckling softly, shaking her head,

"You're a strange one. As for myself, I don't have a place to live so I wander and stay in taverns or sleep in trees or out under the stars, I only come into the city when I need a good rest, medical attention, or reprovisioning."

She shrugged once again,

"As for my query...."

She sighed heavily, looking back to him,

"There is a man that runs a gang of Bandits notorious for dealing in the trade of slaves with the Centaur.... They raided the town I was working in two years ago when I lived in Gerredan and kidnapped my kid brother and sold him into slavery- I vowed to never stop hunting the man until I've rescued my brother. Bounty Hunting has gotten me closer and closer to my ultimate goal...."

Her gaze roved his features a moment, thoughtful,

"So...I thank you for offering to help- its not often people offer to aid a stranger. The Sereph can only do so much to help me... But they have bigger problems to deal with now then a boy thats been missing for two years...."

~*~

Tamis smirked at the.. compliment? That's how he took it!

“ Well.. I make shit interesting.” he admitted, giving her a nod.

His hands wrapped around the edge of the bridge, he glanced her way as she told him her brief history, the tale of her brother.. the centaur, a unfamiliar gesture growing on Tamis' features, a frown. He shook his head and sighed.

“ That's... horrible.” he said at last.

“ Yea..seriously though. If you need help. I can.. get some time off to lend some aid. Sounds like a chore you can't really do by yourself.” He said softly, then her perked up and hastily rose a hand.

“ NOT!!! that .. you can't do it.. just.. that.. it.. would be silly.” he corrected, blinking at his speedy recovery.

“ If that makes any sense.” He added as an after thought.

His head tipped slightly up. He sighed.

“ How close are you?” He wondered, scooting back so his legs were no longer dangling freely over the edge, instead he pulled them underneath himself, curled up Indian style.

~*~

She nodded lightly in agreement,

"Yes, it -would- be but I haven't had much of a choice. I've tracked the man and his trader ring from Gerreden to Harathi and all through Queensdale. He's here somewhere- hiding like the coward he is...."

She trailed off and after a few moments of silence, she raised her gaze to meet his, searching them,

"I would be a fool to turn down a willing aid in my endeavor....If you can help me, I would greatly appreciate it. My brother is all the family I have left in the world and I cannot forsake him to his fate. He is everything to me and I will not rest until I know he is safe."

She raise her hand to run back through her short hair distractedly,

"I know Im close....I can feel it."

~*~

Tamis gave a few slow nods, his eyes looked down toward his hands. He sighed heavily.

“ I... know how you feel. My Sister is all I have too.” He said with a smile.

“ I thank the gods every day she's okay.. and in good hands.” He said softly.

He looked over at Rova and offered his hand. “ Partners?”

He asked, grinning ear to ear, that signature smirk plastered on Tamis' mug. He used his free hand to wipe his bangs away.

“We'll get him back! You have my word. I didn't get put in the Shining Blade because I have nice hair!” He chuckled.

“ My sword and shield are at the ready. Point the way and I will help.” He said nodding a few times.

He wasn't sure why he was so willing to help this person. Maybe.. it's because his life was lacking any sort of adventure.. maybe! It was just because Tamis was terribly bored.. who really knew!

~*~

Again that small hint of a grin tugged at the corner of her lips and she dipped her chin in a nod, offering her own hand to clasp his with a small but firm shake. Her hands and gauntlets were worn and dirtied from days spent roughing it in the wilderness, her knuckles scraped and hands bruised though she seemed not to notice,

"Again, you have my thanks. I need all the help I can get."

She released him and returned her hand to resting behind her, propping herself up with them,

"It is....good to know you're not alone sometimes." she remarked, her gaze wandering him casually, taking note of every detail of his appearance out of habit, "So...thanks."

~*~

Tamis gave a firm grip to her hand.

“ Hey! Anything for a noble cause.” he said, his own hands worn and calloused, having seen the hard hours of labor constantly for the past year and a half now.

He smiled her way watching her sit herself up. He too uncoiled from his sitting position First taking a knee, and then fully standing up. His hands found his waist as one slowly roamed up to fiddle with the strings of his hoodie.

“ Yea! Glad to help though.. between you and me.. I'm bored to tears, and know no one outside of the Blades.”

He rolled his pretty green eyes.

“So.. it's nice to meet people who are all not 'grumble grumble work work.. grumble grumble work.. grumble work work.'.” His features hardened during his mock display.

~*~

She nodded, watching him rise and doing the same. She removed the hood from her falcon's head and let him fly off to hunt, Desoto rising to his paws to follow the huntress where ever she decided to go.

"Seems to be the way of most military types." she offered absently.

She turned back to Tamis, who stood tall over her, being a smaller woman of about 5'5" if that.

"Gotta make a living some how...." She shrugged, "I frequent the tavern here in Shaemoor or the Flagon in the city. If you're leaving you can usually find me in either place if Im not out ..."hunting"."

~*~

He shrugged.

“ Eh.. well I'm not sure! I don't have anything planned for the moment.. “

He hummed softly, swishing his lips side to side. The man brought his hand to his chin, using the crook of his finger to idly rub away at the chinstrap beard he had.

“ Not sure.. what were your plans for the evening?” He wondered.

“ After you randomly got talked at by a strange man sitting on the bridge?”

He chuckled light-heartedly. Letting his hand drop back down to his waist. He offered her a gallant smile, flashing Rova his teeth.

“And trust me! You are by far more interesting than half of them anyways!” he flapped a hand over his shoulder. “Is.. your dog friendly? Dustin? No.. Des...oto.. Desoto friendly?” he wondered.

~*~

She blinked, a little taken by surprise at his remark. After a moment she offered him a little grin, almost shyly it seemed, but it was brief before she looked down to her canine companion,

"Yes, though he doesn't often take kindly to strangers. If he likes you he'll come around and introduce himself when he's ready."

She gave the large dog a gently pet upon his broad head before turning her attention back to the oddly charming man.

"As for my plans.... I guess I don't really have any." She admitted, considering it.

"Its a slow day for me and I could use something to help me relax a bit so I might go get something to drink at the tavern near by."

~*~

He nodded slowly, looking toward the Hound, before his attention returned to Rova.

“ Mind if I join you?” he asked, hopefulness filling his voice.

“ I could use a drink too.. and maybe more conversation. I do believe I should get to know my partner!”

He grinned at his words. His gaze flicked toward the Tavern, which.. wasn't too far from where they stood.

“ Tell me.. you must prefer to use bows and arrows..” he reasoned, eying the woman's quiver.

“ Or.. at least start with those.” He said, grinning, he puffed out his chest slightly in an attempt to look more alluring. No.. he was just being silly, typical Tamis.

“ If you'll have me of course.”

~*~

A small grin eventually touched her lips and she dipped her chin in a nod,

"Sure, why not."

She moved to walk off ahead of him, Desoto loyally at her heels.

"A longbow is my weapon of choice. I've mastered my skill in it over the years from my youth. On the rare occasions when something or someone gets too close, I use my blades."

Underfoot, fallen leaves already yellow and orange and red from the turning of the season and dirt crunched as they walked towards the tavern, already alive with the evening crowd as it began to grow late, the sun dipping down low over the top of the trees and mountain peaks. She made her way inside the building, making a beeline for the bar and perching upon a stool nearest the hearth, Desoto plopping down beside her seat for another nap. She dipped her fingers into her coin pouch, placing a neat little stack upon the countertop,

"A mug of pumpkin spice hot chocolate, please. And some spice cake if you have it." she requested.

She glanced down to her canine companion and retrieved a slab of jerky from her pack and dropped it to him, which was promptly devoured.

~*~

Tamis followed in.. he leaned against the bar top.. humming in indecision.

“ What do I want...” He said, mostly to himself.

“I'll take.. some Mango juice.. laced with.. ice.” he chuckled, stroking his chin.

“Yea! You look pretty capable with that thing. You seem.. just.. well very confident in how you carry yourself.” Tamis admitted, tipping his head to either side, eliciting a few cracks from his neck.

He watched Rova place her coin atop the bar. He looked at her. “ Didn't you hear?”

He asked, leaning over. “ They don't take that kind of money around here.” He said lowly.

As he leaned into her. A faint hint of leather.. sandalwood.. and perhaps.. Lime? Would be smelt upon him. He gave her shoulder a soft pat.

“ I gotcha Rova. To new friends!” he said, hoisting his Mango juice into the air, in a big toast.

~*~

Rova regarded him a moment with a hint of uncertainty in her hazel gaze, not sure if she wanted him to pay for her order but after a moment she realized she probably had no choice in the matter and offered a small conceding nod, retrieving her coin and re-pocketing it. She shrugged her bare shoulders and shifted slightly upon her stool to get more comfortable, leaning a bit against the bar, arms folded and resting casually atop of the counter.

“So, Tamis… How does someone as easy going and jovial as you get caught up in the Shining Blade? You don't seem to possess the typical soldier mentality of being a working stiff.”

She observed him absently, her beautiful pools taking in his whole appearance, and trying not to stare at his well defined torso at the same time, the faintest hint of color touching her face as her dark brown waves feathered softly over part of her face, curtaining one of her brilliant pools from view. The barkeep returned with her order, setting the treats before the woman, to which she thanked him before taking up her mug of specialty hot chocolate and blew upon the thin tendrils of steam briefly before pressing the rim to her full lips and taking a tentative but savory sip.

~*~

Tamis chuckled at her remarks.. oblivious for the moment of the woman's staring.

“Long story short.. I was aiming to join the Seraph. I've always been good with a weapon.. but.. I stopped some crazy battle hungry woman from destroying half of Salma District and it's Guards. Had a chat with the Queen, she suggested the Woman train me.. and .. lo-and behold! I got offered a job with the Shining Blade afterward”

His smile waned as his drink came. He pulled it to his lips and took a sip of the stuff.

“ Not bad.. not bad... “ He simpered, licking his lips and placing the mug back onto the tavern's table top.

“ Originally.. I wished to join the Seraph to support myself and.. my Sister.. but then.. all things sorta went BOOM.. and here I am with the Shining Blade.. and she's married to some Noble. Funny how life just does that.”

He rolled his hand about, shifting his weight to one side.

“But! right.. aside from my rambling.. I grew up on the street.. sooo.. I'm not a fan of working. I do it. But.. I enjoy fun much more.” he winked, laughing some.

~*~

She listened as he spoke, her eyes never leaving him as she sipped upon her aromatic pumpkin spiced hot chocolate, savoring the taste as the evening grew chilling, the tasty drink sending a pleasant warmth through her. When he finished speaking she lowered the mug to cradle casually in her hands,

“I see. You are one of the more fortunate sort then, you and your sister. Not many that endured the hard life of street living often get the turn for the better in their lives.”

She offered him a little smile, her hand moving for the fork to cut off a small section of the moist spice cake with the utensil,

“But its good to see someone like you in the ranks, it gives me hope that there are still good people serving our Queen and Kingdom.”

She popped the morsel into her mouth, chewing thoughtfully as she considered him,

“Do you enjoy it?”

~*~

Tamis chuckled softly, enjoying the praise he was receiving. He watched her take the sip.. and bring the food to her mouth.. his green eyes glanced down toward the cake. He crinkled his nose some and gave a small nod.

“ I.. well.. of course.. it's spiced cake, who doesn't like spice ca-...” He mouth closed with an audible click, and he chuckled. “ You meant... my job..” he said, correcting himself.

Tamis face-palmed, quite literally.. his hand met his forehead. His arms wove atop his chest.

“ Oh.. yes.. of course! I mean.. it has it's ups and downs but it's a good job, and I feel like I'm doing good.”

He said with a smile. “ Besides.. after that whole.. crazy Asura thing with the Seraph.. we have to have one Military group not be infiltrated..” he cackled softly.

~*~

She couldn't help her sudden, melodic laughter at his mistake, her smile finally gracing her lips, pearly and near flawless.

“I guess that’s true… would you like some?”

She nudged the plate towards him, having noted him eyeing it earlier even after he facepalmed, which was oddly adorable. Her grin came more easily now in this man’s presence, as if he helped her to forget her troubles for once in her life. It was a good feeling to have. At his continuing words, she nodded in agreement, chuckling herself,

“Indeed, I’ll have to agree. It seems the Shining Blade is the only reliable source of authority around here anymore. And for that we must be thankful.”

She continued to flash her charming smile his way until her mug raised to her lips once again, taking another savory, lengthy draw from it.

~*~

Tamis licked his lips.. his stomach growled anxiously. Down boy! He gnawed on his lower lip, sawing side to side. He found her laughter.. rather pleasant. He wanted more of that laughter.

“ Suuure, if you're willing to share! I promise. I don't have germs.” he said, grinning, he sorta tore a piece away, dropping it into his mouth, he lit up. “Mmmm!” he swallowed the bit of food, looking from her to the cake. “ That.. was... fantastic!” He exclaimed happily.. licking his lips once again, hoping to find a crumb that decided to hang against his lips, sadly.. there were none to be found.

“ Yea.. And.. the Shining Blade can only do so much.. Our first duty is to protect the Queen.” He heaved another heavy sigh.

“ I think though.. the Seraph is starting to rebound, which is good. They needed a lot of cleansing. All well.. politics suck. This cake's great.” he pointed downward to it.

Stealing another chunk and offering her a grin. He washed it down with some more cold juice. Sighing pleasantly.

“What do you do.. for... like fun?” he wondered. Trying to figure out the Woman he'd been conversing with for the past few hours.

~*~

She did laugh again, finding his cheery attitude and enthusiasm refreshing and pleasant, setting her even more at ease. She gestured to the barkeep for more of the spice cake for them both this time when the older rugged man meandered by before returning her brilliant hazel green/brown pools Tamis’ way,

“Im glad you like it, its one of this place’s secret treasures when the season turns this time of year.”

She tucked some of her jaw length hair behind an ear which was lined with tiny silver hoops, her attention completely upon the soldier now,

“And I’ll have to agree, politics were never my cup of tea- I can never follow them for the life of me. I prefer the simple life, spending most of my time in the wilderness, hunting and fishing. I guess...in a way that can count as a hobby as well.”

She thought about it for a moment before dipping her chin in an approving nod,

“Yes, aside from that I love traveling and exploring. What of you? Do you spend most of your time in the city walls?” she implored, looking to him curiously just as the barkeep returned, setting two new plates before the pair.

~*~

Tamis sorta.. leaned over, towards Rova, his arm bent then he cupped a hand to his mouth and whispered toward her.

“Between you and me. I have been feeding stray cats, and rubbing the food on some of my colleges boots.. so.. when they walk around in patrols and such.. Cats start to randomly follow them.” Tamis said, seeming.. oddly serious about the matter.

He stood back up, hiding any sort of amusement. Was he serious? What a jerk.. wait.. was he being serious.

After a few moments of leaving her to wonder, he buckled forward and laughed heartily. “ Sorry.. Sorry.. Gods.. I .. I would never, they can all probably kick my butt.”he quickly blurted out, flashing her a grin.

“ Honestly? I go for some small walks.. I do reading.. writing, I.. uhh.. “ He swallowed. “ Sing too.” he added a bit bashfully.

~*~

She found herself laughing again, shaking her head at him which caused her jaw length hair to shift about her heart shaped face, her bright smile returning.

“You -are- an odd one.” She remarked in amusement.

“But at least you are interesting. I too enjoy reading and I enjoy singing myself though...I don’t sing to others, Im a little….sheepish. I've only ever sung to my brother.” she admitted, her smile fading a bit.

She cleared her throat and took a few bites from her new slice of spiced cake, chewing absently as a brief pause in conversation came between them. After a moment, she slowly slid her gaze back to him,

“So you and your sister grew up in the Reach?” she inquired, curious.

~*~

Tamis smiled at that.

“ You should sing some time. For me! I don't judge.. at least not usually.. I only judge Ettins.. that's cause they are plotting to take over the Reach.”

He wagged a foreboding finger. Chuckling at his silliness.

“ But.. seriously! I'd love to hear you sing!” He beamed. “ From one singer to another! And.. I'll even sing for you!” He added, giving her a quick nod.

He shifted slightly.. his arms folding atop his chest.

“Yes... er.. we were not very well off, and we grew up in the Reach.”

Tamis let out a heavy sigh. “ We did what we could to get by. She's my twin even.”

He chuckled. “ We can read each others minds.. and talk.. long distances.” He shrugged once.

“ It comes in handy.” the man grinned playfully.

~*~

She blushed suddenly, claiming up a little out of shyness as she shifted her gaze away from him, her little grin coy and sheepish,

“N-no I cant do that… My voice isn't even all that good to be honest- I think Rueben just enjoyed it ‘cause he was used to me singing to him since he was a baby….”

She cleared her throat lightly and took a lengthy gulp from her specialty hot chocolate, still avoiding the handsome soldier’s gaze. Once she lowered the mug she hastily attempted to divert the attention back onto him.

“So, twins? Identical? I hear thats pretty rare for siblings of opposite gender. I would like to meet her sometime.”

She let out a small snicker at the idea of Ettins plotting to take over the Reach, a small smirk tugging at the corner of her heart shaped lips.

“Heh...Ettin Ministers….ya know, I'm not so certain we don't already have those wondering about the Reach.” she quipped jokingly.

~*~

Tamis rolled his green eyes, chuckling. His arms weaved atop his chest and he looked down upon her.. clearly unsure if he was just going to take that lying down.

“ Oh! Come on!” He started, flashing her his teeth. “Babies are the best judges! If they keep crying, your not the best.. if they are soothed or go to sleep, your wonderful!” He smiled a bit. “ Okay...in time maybe I can get you to do some singing. Like.. right as we are killing centaur or something.” He gave a sage like nod.

He cleared his throat, reaching for his glass of juice once again, as he was taking a sip he started his nod, setting the mug back down. He was nearly done! Oh no! He licked his lips catching the remaining juice.

“Yes, Uhh..maybe? We look similar, but.. I lack any breasts.” His hands came up to his chest for a split second, flashing Rova a goofy grin. “ But.. she's.. interesting, Gods.. I haven't seen her.. in..like forever!” He admitted with a smirk. “ Tassi Kre-.. Er.. Griggs now.” He puckered his lips together.

He guffawed at her final comment. “ Oh no! We don't... trust me! They are lacking the height!” he snickered playfully. “ They do all have two heads, carry around big clubs, and have green looking skin.. maybe in a few years we'll get a giant one.”

~*~

Rova chuckled in amusement at her new found friend’s antics, her soft melodic laughter filling the air between them.

“Yes well, I shall take your word for it then, Rueben is certainly partial to it. As for your sister, where does she live again? You can always go and visit her, can’t you? Or have her come visit you.”

She cracked a grin then, snirking quietly, as she raised her mug of specialty hot chocolate towards her shapely lips,

“I doubt breasts would become you, much too muscular.”

She took a draw from her mug, masking her bemused grin behind it as her vivid hazel green/brown eyes regarded him from over the rim of her drink.

“As for the Ministers and Ettins, I wouldn’t be surprised if they were plotting together against the Reach. Them and the terrorist ducks that loiter about in the stream in Shaemoor. They look shifty- I don’t trust them.”

She had to fight hard to not burst out into laughter and keep a straight face.

~*~

Tamis yawned slightly and took another sip of juice.. only to realize.. there was no more juice! Blasphemy!! He shook the cup for the tender, who.. refilled it. There was only two of them in there anyways. He smiled.

“Thanks!” Tamis quipped quickly. Adjusting his hoodie shirt. “Hey! Never say never.. I bet.. if I really wanted too I could grow these things out.” He rubbed his chest some. “ You can even feel them if you want!” He teased, figuring she wouldn't.

“ Yea.. I agree.. all well.. they will all be rooted out eventually.” He shrugged. “ Just a matter of time. Someone's going to catch them!” He grinned at her. “ BUT! Work.. it's boring.. let's talk about something else.. Whaaat's.. your favorite color?” He asked, nodding. Beautiful Tamis! Good job! Subject change commence!

~*~

She did laugh then, again, melodic and soft that filled the air of the tavern for but a moment. She shook her head at him, rolling her vivid hazel orbs as she brushed aside a lock of jaw length chocolate brown hair behind an ear, lined with small golden hoops.

“I wouldn’t bet on that.” she snickered in regards to his chest.

Then she gestured towards her worn and weather beaten attire, as if the answer to his color question was obvious,

“Hunter green is my favorite color.” she clarified. “Yours?”

She thanked the barkeep as he sat a refilled specialty pumpkin spice hot chocolate before her with all the fixings and finished off her second slice of spice cake before indulging in another drink of the delicious treat, all the while, her brilliant gaze remained fixated upon her new conversation companion, even as the evening began to wane.

~*~

Tamis chuckled deeply, his chest vibrating in mirth. He wove his toned, tanned arms atop his chest. The tank-top he chose to wore ruffling slightly, making the arm-holes sorta bunch up from the gesture. He gave a little roll of his eyes, and snickered playfully.

“Fiiiiine..” He exaggerated, whipping his hair from his face. His soft, raven black hair sorta fell right back into place. He huffed, blowing upwards, causing his bangs to lift momentarily before falling right back down.

“ Let's see.. favorite color.. favorite color..” he hummed, trying to come up with his favorite color.

He never really knew this answer. It always seemed to be changing.

“Green's a good color.. I like orange.. too.” He said, swishing his lips side to side.. OH! Compliment time!

The excitement, glinted on his face.

“But! I think..” he continued. “ The color of your skin is one of the prettiest colors I've seen!”

Ooo that was kind of a good one! Considering she didn't find it super creepy and stalkerish. Guess he'd find out!

~*~

Rova blinked at him a few times, brilliant hazel green orbs with flecks of golden honey brown regarding him blankly a few moments as a dusting of a lovely rosy hue touched her olive complexion.

“M-my...skin tone…?”

She paused to glance down at her exposed biceps and fingers which peeked out of leather fingerless gloves, as if seeing her skin color for the first time.

“Huh… I never… really thought about how my skin tone looks…..” she admitted, almost sheepishly.

In truth, her complexion was all natural, not a tan line in sight beneath all of the leather of her protective gear she always wore, the shade even all over her surprisingly soft skin save for the scattered dusting of beauty marks here and there, one in particular standing out at the corner of her right eye, seemingly always curtained by the tapered layers of her jaw length a-line hair cut.

She looked back to him and offered a little grin,

“Guess I’ll take that as a good thing… thank you. Though… a bit strange.” she laughed softly.

~*~

'Well crap' Tamis thought.. he rubbed his chin a bit, looking down at her. A small smile graced his lips and he snickered playfully.

“You're welcome!”

He gave her a quick nod. His hands settling at his waist. Before one eventually rose and Tamis rolled his left hand forward in a gesture.

“You are.. really fun to talk too!” He admitted, beaming brightly.

“ Glad I said something.” He continued, wearing a big fancy grin. His teeth all on display for the woman.

“ I also.. really like your hair! It suits you well.” He said, nodding a few times, his head tipped left and then right.. as if examining her face.

He noted the small beauty marks that dotted her features, finding them kinda adorable.

“So.. if you were to consider yourself.. outgoing.. or more shy.. which would it be? Yes.. granted.. we are talking.. which sorta hints towards one! But.. sometimes.. bigger groups make others a bit shy.”

He kinda sorta really rambled there. He wanted to continue conversation! But.. wasn't sure what he should ask. It was all just a ploy..for him to figure out what to ask her next.

~*~

Her smile grew sheepish again for a moment, averting her brilliant gaze to the mug of specialty hot chocolate in front of her absently.

“Well… I'm not around people often. So I tend to get awkward most of the time and large crowds make me...kinda nervous. So I guess I'm more shy and reserved than anything else really. To tell the truth, I don’t talk to people often. So… this is actually kinda nice. I spend so much time out in the wilds and in the company of animals I sometimes forget what is acceptable in society and tend to say things without thinking that comes off as….peculiar to most. Or awkward.” she replied candidly.

After a moment, she peeked back his way, his charming smile only adding to his handsome features.

“And I am happy you find conversation with me enjoyable. It’s actually a bit of a relief to hear you say that. I haven't been been around people in a few months actually so you are the first person I have interacted with in about four months.”

She shrugged lightly, hands raising her mug to press against her heart shaped lips for a lengthy, savoring sip.

~*~

Tamis grinned, enjoying watching her become suddenly bashful. His green gaze glinted playfully as she replied. He bobbed his head, understanding what she meant.. his left hand went up, raking through his hair as it continued to stretch skyward.

“ I understand!” He started, licking his lips and shifting his weight against the bar top.. “ I do! And.. I appreciate ya spending time with me.. most people find me.. uh.. strange.” He chuckled at the lack of a better word.

“ I'm a bit.. quirky I suppose.” The Blade gave her a dutiful nod. “ But.. quite frankly.. life is boring if you're not a bit quirky.” He flashed her another smile. Standing upright once more.. fidgeting restlessly.

“If you're ever in the reach.. you can stop by my little apartment, we can talk some more and stuff! I grab some food, you know.. that sort of thing.”

He shrugged his broad shoulders.

“ I don't know too many people.. and most of those I work with are.. well.. pretty dutiful, and that's as far as those relationships go...” He gave another half-hearted shrug.

~*~

She tilted her head to the side a bit as she considered him, her soft chocolate hued locks shifting in feathered layers to curtain her eye as she did so. A soft smile graced her heart shaped lips, flashing him her near flawless pearly smile.

“You know… I think I’d like that. It’s good to have a friend.”

A hint of color touched her face but her smile remained, her hand raising her mug to her lips for another draw of the hot cocoa within.

“And there is absolutely nothing wrong with being different. It makes life interesting and fun.” she reassured, smile widening a bit with her sincerity.

~*~

“Great! Me too.. get's boring..” he admitted, fidgeting some.

Tamis flashed her a goofy grin.

“ The real question is.. when will you be in the Reach next?” he asked, tipping his head to the side, offering her another smile.

He dusted off his forearms and placed one flat against the bar top. He twisted his torso left and right, cracking his back a little.

“ True! Life would be way too boring if we were all about as exciting as a stick with some armor on it.” He laughed loudly at his own silliness.

“ Sorry.. that was a bit.. over-dramatic.” he said. You think Tam? Dork. His grin ever persistent.

“But!! Seriously.. I could use some more friends.” he said lightly. “ Don't really know anyone anymore.. heh.”

~*~

Rova smiled softly, listening to him ramble a little. She dipped her chin lightly, soft brown locks shifting with the movement.

“I would have to agree. As for me, I typically check into the Reach every other week to resupply and get information on the latest Bandit movements and stuff like that.”

She rested her chin into her palm, looking thoughtful as her hazel green/brown pools roved over his handsome, playful features.

“So what district do you live in?”

~*~

Tamis itched away at his head, flicking his bangs to the side. He offered her a smile.

“ The.. Eastern Commons Rova.” he said with a nod. “ I share an apartment with some.. older man. Honestly.. he's kinda creepy.. but.. by Grenth's lair.. he cleans the place so I don't mind.” He smiled wider.

“ Every other week!? Why not.. every week!” He smiled wider.

“ I like that idea more.. Means I get to become better friends with you!” He winked playfully.

“ I hope!” He quickly added.

His arms wove atop his chest, the feeling of the soft crimson colored hoodie against his forearms was kinda nice compared to his breastplate.

~*~

Another soft melodic laugh escaped her and she dipped her chin in another nod, her soft near flawless and charming smile returning as she averted her eyes from him down to her now empty mug, a hint of rosy hue touching her olive complexion.

“I just may have to, now that I have a reason to do so, no?” she implored, looking back towards him at length, almost sheepishly.

“But yes, Im sure we will become very good friends, We only just met but I like you already, you make me smile and laugh, both things I don’t do very often at all. It’s been months- almost a year since I’ve laughed last….”

~*~

Tamis let his eyes grow wide, the size of dinner plates! Alright.. not that big, That would be ridiculous and probably some sort of medical condition that should be looked at. Either way! He seemed in 'shock.'

“ WHAT?! You haven't.. laughed.. in months or years?” he was utterly flabbergasted.

His demeanor softened “Oh? Good! I will look forward to it then! Stop on by.. we can talk and stuff.. you know.. throw candy at kids and try to tar and feather Norn.. that sort of thing.” he snickered, obviously kidding.

“ But! I'm sure we could find something to do! You know.. get to know each other.. plan things out.. all that fun stuff.” He bobbed his head vigorously.

~*~

Looked embarrassed for a moment at the fact it was true, once again averting her gaze from him to look else where.

“Guess I just havnt had much of a reason to. I just miss my brother so much and he’s all I have.”

She shook her head, wanting to move away from the depressing subject.

“But anyways- yes! I look forward to paying you a visit and doing something fun for once. I would...really like that, Tamis….” she said, voice trailing off softly.

Her gaze returned to him once more, managing a small smile, her jaw length hair curtaining her eye from view partially, silky soft chocolate layers feathered down in gentle waves that framed her heart shaped face perfectly.

“I’m...really happy we met. It’s rare when I encounter someone like you. I think...we will become really good friends.”

~*~

Tamis frowned a little, giving her a few subtle nods. He whisked his raven black hair away from his eyes. And sighed.

“ Hey now...” He looked down at her. “ We will find him. Alive.. I promise you! You got a partner in crime now! Take on some low life thugs..” he flexed, hoping to cheer her up some.

Of course, show off his guns.. pow pow.. two tickets.. to the gun.. show. Alright, we get it Tamis. He let his hands find his waist.

“ Good! Me three! I think we will become good friends too! Gods know I need more.. I swear.. you'd figure offering cakes to the shrine of Dwyana would get me something! Looks like it finally did! Good to know. Blueberry pie.. Dwyana apparently likes it!”

He scrunched his face up and snickered. His features softened, offering her a gentle looking smile. He brought a hand up, to itch at the scruff that dotted his jawline.

~*~

She blinked her vivid hazel green/brown orbs at him, momentarily baffled, then let out a quiet laugh into her hand in her attempt to stifle it.

“You...are so strange…..” Clearly, it wasn’t such a bad thing.

She brushed some of her own hair aside from her face, unable to help but return the smile.

“Guess it’s good to know the spirit of Dwayna enjoys blueberry pie.”

Her gaze wandered to his arms when he flexed and blinked, a hint of color touching her olive complexion before she hastily averted her gaze to her empty plate, not wanting to be caught staring...and admiring this strange but handsome man.

“And thank you for the confidence… after a year of searching most tend to think I am wasting my time. But I refuse to believe that. And you help will be greatly appreciated… I can use all the aid I can get.”

~*~

Tamis gave a firm nod. Of course.. he was the oddest of them all! Well.. maybe not them all.. There was some strange Asura he met once.. harassing a Norn for piggyback rides! Anyways. He snapped out of his little trance.

“Thanks!” he blurted out. “ I will take that as a compliment, and seriously.. you don't have to hide your laugh, it's adorable. So please! Laugh away.” he flashed her his teeth.

He noticed her watching him during his Johnny Bravo outtakes. He grinned maliciously. Okay. Slightly diabolically. One hand flat against the bartop, he flexed his bicep. Obviously, incredibly well toned underneath that burgundy hoodie he wore.

“ Yea! Hey.. never know. I'm sure he's fine. It may have been a year.. but.. We will find him! Don't worry about it! We can get some gear, and go tackle those jerks!” He clenched a fist, and winked.” We got this!”

~*~

She flashed him a smile, nodding in agreement, her gaze shifting over his features.

“You’re right, everything will be fine.”

She brushed her hair aside casually, slipping from the stool to stand on her feet.

“It was nice sitting and talking with you, Tamis. I… should probably go and try to find a vacant room in a decent tavern for the night before they get full.... Otherwise I’m sleeping in a tree again.”

~*~

Tamis blinked, he offered her a grin.

“ Yea.. oh..”He thought about it.

“ Here! Let me get your room!” He insisted, slapping down some coin.

“ On Tamis!” He pointed a finger back toward himself.

“ Thanks for the chit-chat.” He beamed. “ I really did appreciate it.. and I look forward to more!!”

He gave a quick bob of his head.

“ Anyways.. I'll let you go! Enjoy your night Rova, I look forward to getting to talk with you again soon!! We can share a giant cheesecake or something.” He snickered, tapping his stomach softly. Mmm cheesecake...

~*~

Blushed a little but offered a sweet smile at him,

“That...sounds good. And thanks for the room. I’ll..see you around soon, hopefully.”

She snapped her fingers towards her slumbering hound who woke and rose to his feet to follow after her. She looked to Tamis and offered him a small wave.

“Have a good night, Tam.”

#Ryn Badger #Rova Hode #Tamis Kreg #Drizzty #Gw2 #Roleplay #fanfic #short story #arty-griggs