New Blood on the Island.....oh where oh where should I go?

[Amberlyn]

The sound of a log falling in the fire awoke her from her light slumber. It had been two days since she had found herself in this new land. Just as her brothers and sisters before her, she had been sent out into the world to find her way.
Only when she had proven herself could she return to the home colony. The gods only knew how long that would be.

She did not get to choose her location, the guidance and wisdom of the elders were considered as well as the suggestions of the royal sorcerers. She was not even told when the final decision had been made. She went to sleep one evening in her home and awoke here.

They did not send her empty handed. She had her servants, her posessions, a small guard (she was after all of noble blood), and several chests of gold.

It was now up to her to decide what to do with herself.

She stretched her long lithe body, stifled a yawn, and sat up. As always Jane was already up and preparing the morning bath.

"So, Jane, what do you think we should do today?


"I'm sure I don't know Miss. All this has happened so suddenly! It's all I can do to keep meself busy and not worry bout me family what's left behind. Me poor parents must be sick with worry."

"I'm sure they know what has happend to you, it's not like they didn't know the Time of Leaving was coming. I just had my 60th birthday."

She rolled her eyes exasperated by the girl's silly worries. She had been looking forward to this since she turned 50. Her eldest brother had Left when he was only 55. She had hoped she would get to go early as well, but no such luck. The elders just didn't think females were ready that soon.

She slid off the bed, eased her slip off her shoulders and sunk down into the warm sudsy waters.

She thought she'd go do some exploring today...go out and see what this new land was like, what kind of creatures existed here. She just loved a new place. There was so much to learn now! She could hardly wait to get started.

[Amberlyn]

She made her way down into the valley. There was a breathtaking view of the village below as she stopped to take a rest in a small alcove. It wasn't huge but it was large enough to have fortifications. There seemed to be one main road which ran through the town, gated at both entrances. If things went as she planned, she would find a gathering place at the village, there amongst the natives. Perhaps she could find someone to talk with her, tell her of this place and it's history.

The air was cold and the snow made the footing treacherous at times. She did not worry about falling, but she didn't like the cold. It made keeping her body temperature up difficult. It would be nice to find a warm fire. It was good she had worn her fur lined boots and cape today. They were a bit cumbersome for movement but provided much needed warmth.

By late morning she had reached the bottom of the mountain and was following a small stream toward the local village. It led to a well worn road, which in turn,led to the town.

The traffic on the road was light and with the cold the travelers kept to themselves. Most were bundled up as heavily as Amberlyn, and she could not see their faces. Only the steam of their breath as they walked along.

Her curiosity was running rampant and she was anxious to find a tavern or inn where she could study, perhaps talk with some of the travelers or villagers. There seemed to be many different races here, at least by the varying sizes and shapes of the travelers on the road. Perhaps she wasn't the first of her kind to be sent here..
Amberlyn picked up her past and hurried toward the

[Amberlyn]

[OOC] It has been a few years since I have Rp'd in this forum. I meant for this Rp to be open for anyone who wishes to join. Please pm Amberlyn if you have any questions.[/OOC]

Amberlyn picked up her pace and hurried toward the village.

She was surprised the entrance to the town was so well guarded. There were four large humans with swords and spears on either side of the gate, plus several more who were in charge of checking any suspicious carts, crates, barrels, and people.

Amberlyn was relieved when she heard the guards speaking to the cart driver in front of her. She had been afraid the language spoken here would be one she did not know. Although she had spent many years studying various languages, there were still many she did not know...and this was an unknown land to her.

She passed through the checkpoint without any mishap. It did not seem to be a crime to carry weapons into the village, and she had not worn her sword anyway. She did not want to frighten anyone, or create a disturbance by being overly armed today. Instead, she had chosen to carry a few well placed daggers (some hidden, some in plain view). This visit to the town was really just to explore and gain information, she really didn't think there would be need for anything more in the way of protection. Besides, she had other ways to defend herself if the need arose.

This close to the gate she passed a stables, smithy, armorer, and just past a shop promising 'magic trinkets and potions' she saw what she was looking for: an inn with a common room/tavern.

The sign outside said 'The Lusty Dragon'. The artwork depicting a green dragon...well endowed, was surpringly good if not a little on the vulgar side. Typical of all the taverns she had seen. It was close to noon and the tavern seemed to be a popular place. There were several unsavory looking men just outside the door throwing bones against the wall. The sound of their laughter followed her into the room. She pushed her hood down as her eyes adjusted to the change in light.

Glancing around the room she noticed several strange looks, whether it was the fact she was female or just her general appearance she couldn't tell. The tables closest to the fire were taken, but there was one not too far from the welcome heat. It was still filthy from the previous patron but she didn't care. She made her way across the room, seeming to glide between the tables to the empty seat.

The serving woman was there before she could even unfasten her cloak. The wench began to clear the table, she actually used a somewhat clean cloth to wipe it down before speaking to Amberlyn.

"What will ye be havin' to drink. I'm sure you'll be wanting lunch? We don't give credit here, so I'll be seeing your coin before I brings you a mug or plate. Me husband is watching ye over there....stranger."

Amberlyn followed the direction of her nod and noticed the bartender give her a aknowledging nod. She nodded back and without leaving his gaze, dropped one silver coin on the wench's tray. The woman picked it up, looked it over, and nodded her approval.

"Well, I guess this will do. Lunch is mutton today, perhaps a few carrots and potatoes on the side, bread and cheese I'm guessing you be wanting as well. Vegetables being scarce with the winter on us and all. Will ye be wanting a room as well? Never seen someone like you around here."

Amberlyn smiled at the woman reassuringly.

"Lunch will be fine, starting with a mug of ale. Thank you, and I do not believe I will be needing a room. Why don't you just consider that payment on my next couple of meals as well? I'm sure I will visit your establishment again."
"Whatever you say.....Miss"

The woman hurried off to her duties and Amberlyn settled back in her chair to survey the room.

[Wulfric]

He could never be certain where his wanderings would take him next, though, when one often traveled on four legs, little of a destination was needed.

Tranquility had filled the lands again, despite the snow coverage in most areas, and he felt the urge to return to his days of roaming, so he did; despite the constant complaining of those at home.

He gave a wolfish grin as he thought of the snow covering his jet black fur, he always enjoyed the contrast of the white upon the black.

Hmm... I don't recall this place. And it's guarded, interesting...

Giving a slight howl, he ran towards the gates as fast as his four legs would take him, the pads of his large paws leaving barely any prints on the hard packed trail. He grinne as the guards drew their swords, and stopped just before them, sitting on his haunches.

Take us for a fool? Stupid beast...
No, I take you for dead if you persist with your weapons

Laughing at the shocked faces of the two men, Wulfric shifted to his natural, humanish wolf form. He smiled as he stood up above the men, his clawed hands glistening in the light against his black fur, his canines covered with a slight froth.

Now, shall we?

Wulfric nodded as the two men sheathed their swords and stood aside, letting him walk inside the gates unabated.

The place seemed drull, one couldn't find a reason for such security being need in such a dismal town. That was, until he came across a place called The Lusty Dragon. It seemed to be a tavern of some sort, and with the way it looked, it was mostly likely the draw of the local area. That was the reason for the security at the gates, he would assume.

I do believe I have some time. why not some drink and a little fun...

Laughing, he walked inside the tavern, his eyes bleeding to a crimson red as he looked over the patrons slowly.

Perhaps I was wrong about the fun...

Sitting down at the bar, he motioned at the bartender with his clawed hand.

The strongest drink you have, and make it snappy...

[_Nagash_]

The town was well guarded. Then again, most towns were nowadays. Peace might have returned to the Isle, but one never knwe when hostile neighbors would take up arms against one's homeland. People preferred not taking chances. As Nagash was passing through the checkpoint, he could see that this checkpoint was one manned by many green soldiers though. Most only cast superficial glances inside the cargo they checked, and only the exceptionally criminal looking people were searched for illegal goods.

He entered the line leading to a pair of very young men, if not boys, who were more interested in searching women than anything else if their superior wasn't looking. One of them cast him a suspicious look, but when he returned it with a cynical look he could pass. His two swords were no problem appearently, and his daggers he had hidden well. The small bottle tied to his leg was also hidden from view, and Nagash did not know if the substance inside was allowed in this place. He guessed that it wasn't.

He had come to this town for business, but first things first: the journey had been a long and rainy one and he felt like he didn't remember what it felt like to be clean and dry from the outside and wet on the inside. A tavern was what he needed most now. To get epically drunk, socialize, chase a few women around and maybe even to start a good fight. In no particular order.

The first tavern he ran into was called 'The Lusty Dragon'. A picture on the sign of a dragon who was rather large, in some places at least. He grinned and entered the place, which was buzzing with activity: laughter, shouts, and some heavy drinking.

A few of the patrons immediatly noticed him, a stranger, as he walked in. Three of them approached him, the largest of them looking to bump into him violently. Anticipating this move, Nagash sidestepped at the last moment, causing them to only brush each other. The burly man nearly lost his balance, but steadied himself in time. Deciding against a brawl already, Nagash cocked his head and smiled.

" Excuse me. "

He then contuinued onward to the bar, nodding to the other two and still smiling. Not bothering to look back to the three, he made his way to a table with an empty seat. The other seat was occupied by a woman who was in the process of ordering lunch and an ale. He stopped the serving wench as she made her way from the table back to the bar.

" I'll have whatever she ordered, three ales, a wine and a glass of your best spirits. "

" Fine. Payment is in advance though. Especially for strangers. "

He arched his eyebrow at the way she pronounced the word stranger, but shrugged and gave her a few coins.

" I think that should keep me going for a while, won't it? How about you hurry for a bit, eh? "

He then approached the woman sitting alone at the table.

" Good day. Mind if I join you at your table? Travelling in this bloody winter chilled me to the bone, and this place seems closest to the fireplace.
Besides, it would be nice to talk to someone else but my horse for a change. "

[Dark Horse]

"The Lusty Dragon"... It had a certain ring to it. The place was terrible. The ale was more stale and a little too pale. The food was rotten and the service horrible. However, for those who sought information and a warm fire on a snowy winter there was little other option for an elf...or would be elf.

Pas was always a loner. Always carrying the taint of his human blood, however, everyone had secrets. Everyone had something to hide and nothing was ever what it seemed.

he had arrived early in the morning and taken a seat in front of the fire. His dark cloak was pulled low over his eyes and he focused all his senses on his ears. Listening was much of what he did. There was much to be gained for an intelligence agent such as he by merely listening and paying attention.

The fire crackled and it was perhaps the most interesting thing afoot at the time. Pas relaxed his concentration and turned a concealed eye about the room taking note of all those who were there. He spotted the one known as Wulfric enter the tavern first. He was soon followed by the one Known as Nagash. It was interesting to see the presence of several well established guilds represented in the lusty dragon. It was usually only frequented by peasant class. There was a strange energy in the place this day and he couldn't place it.

He produced a pipe from his side pouch and took a candle from the table and lit it, drawing deeply. The smoke drifted slowly towards the ceiling. Pas closed his eyes and drifted into deep thought, all the while litening intently to the conversation of the place.

[Amberlyn]

She had just ordered her meal and was beginning to observe the other patrons when someone approached her and asked to join her at her table.

" Good day. Mind if I join you at your table? Travelling in this bloody winter chilled me to the bone, and this place seems closest to the fireplace.
Besides, it would be nice to talk to someone else but my horse for a change. "

In a quick glance Amberlyn took in his appearance. He was well armed but did not seem to be a threat, and he seemed willing to talk. Perhaps she could learn something about this place from him.

I don't mind. Please, have a seat. I too am trying to warm up after traveling this morning. I would very much like some conversation.

She made room for the stranger and was relieved when the serving woman showed up with their drinks.

It'll be a bit on the food yet, I got yer ale here, be a bit on the wine and spirits too.

The woman gave them a smirk, slammed their mugs down on the table and hurried off to the next patrons. Amberlyn took a cautious sip of the ale, and found it a passable brew. In fact for such a seedy looking place it was rather good. No wonder it was so popular.
She waited for her new "friend" to settle in and surveyed the room again.

There was an interesting new creature at the bar. He seemed to be a wolf, yet he walked upright, spoke, and had some human like features to his face. His fur was a beautiful shade of black, so dark it almost looked blue.

Other than the wolf-man, the rest of the patrons seemed pretty typical for a human establishment of this sort.

She turned her attention back to man in front of her.

I hope I can provide you with better conversation than your horse. Or do your horses speak as well here as your wolves?

[_Nagash_]

" I don't mind. Please, have a seat. I too am trying to warm up after traveling this morning. I would very much like some conversation. "

After she had spoken Nagash nodded and sat down, sighing loudly. Traveling had never lost it's charm to him, but traveling in the winter was nothing but a torment. Fortunatly, the drinks arrived as his buttocks made contact with the chair. He hadn't spoken still, trying to make the exceptionally important decision which of his drinks to drink first. He then realized that he was being a bit rude to the lady at the table as she broke the silence once again.

" I hope I can provide you with better conversation than your horse. Or do your horses speak as well here as your wolves? "

" I'm quite sure that you will. My horse is pleasant enough in conversation, albeit a bit monotonous in it's answers... As for wolves, I never tried speaking to one so far. What makes you think that wolves around here speak well? "

He shifted in his seat and took up the small glass containing the spirits. He emptied it in the blink of an eye, only to regret his ever touching the stuff in the first place. His eyes widned and he drank the first of his ales in full as well, to quench the fire in his throat.

" Leto's balls! That stuff is pure poison! "

Then grinning,

" Does warm up one's insides though. But forgive me my manners. I am Nagash and come from a realm called MUR to the northwest of this place. "

He extended his hand to her and smiled.

" What brings a lovely lady like you to a shady place like this? "

[Dark Horse]

Nagash...

Pas wrinkled his nose slightly. The dark child was intrigued with the conversation which he heard coming from across the room. So, he pondered, what brings the likes of Nagash and Wulfric to such an establishment as this. Is it truly possible that they were traveling the wintry country for fun with... no entourages?

As he was completely unconnected with those he served, he decided to make his presence known. He removed the hood from his head and stood up, approaching the bar. he tapped the shoulder of the Orc who was seated next to Wulfric and asked him politely to move. When he refused a short scuffle broke out which resulted in the Orc in some form of paralysis.

It's quite allright everyone, I assure you our good friend will awaken in a few hours completely unharmed and unaware of any of the events which have just transpired.

Pas tended to carry around sharps which were effected with various drugs. He had simply stuf the orc with a concoction to induce a deep sleep. Nothing like a good first impression.

He sat at the bar and decided on an ale.

"I'll take the strongest you've got. So will he." He gestured at Wulfric. He didn't even know if he drank.

So, Wulfric. What brings you to these parts. I'm sure you are aware that my presence in these "upscale establishments" is a part of my job, considering I run an intelligence operation. You, however and Nagash being here. I'm sure something must be afoot. And, if it is it's something I don't know about. Which bothers me greatly. Either way, what brings you about these lands in this dismal winter?

[Wulfric]

He listened to the scuffle as he rapped his claws along the bar, his red eyes never leaving the bartender as his impatience grew.

I'll take the strongest you've got. So will he.
So, Wulfric. What brings you to these parts. I'm sure you are aware that my presence in these "upscale establishments" is a part of my job, considering I run an intelligence operation. You, however and Nagash being here. I'm sure something must be afoot. And, if it is it's something I don't know about. Which bothers me greatly. Either way, what brings you about these lands in this dismal winter?

Wulfric bared his fangs as the bartender set their drinks before them, his eyes bleeding to pure black, challenging the man to ask for money.

Looking at Pas, as he preferred to call himself, through one eye, he took a swallow of his drink.

Aye, you elves and your "intelligence operations". I could expect to no less find you in my own home as much as here.

He laughed, looking at Pas fully with both eyes as they bled back to their normal brown coloring. Grinning, he raised his glass and took another drink.

Our drinks are on the house, apparantly... As for why I'm here, tis quite simple to be honest. One nose and four legs, they do wonders when peace is about and the weather is drull. As far as Nagash is concerned...

He looked back at Nagash, talking up a young woman who's face reminded him of one who had lost something. He studied them a moment, then returned his attention to Pas.

...I know no more than you do. Though he seems to be alone, save for that young lady, so it shouldn't take much for one such as yourself to figure out, no?

[Amberlyn]

Amberlyn smiled at the man's reaction to his drink. He was trying very hard to be friendly.

"Hello Nagash from MUR. My name is Amberlyn, I'm not from around here either. Perhaps you will be able to tell me something of the history of this area, I'm very curious to learn.

And as for the wolves, that one at the bar seems to be quite capapble of speech...I'm not sure but I believe he may be some sort of shape shifter? I've never seen a wolf creature such as him before. I have seen humans, various types of fae, and many other types of creatures...but not one like that."

She realized she was rambling and had totally ignored his question to her.

"I'm sorry, you asked me a question....what brings me to this place? As you can tell from my questions and rambling, I am a traveler much like you, but I am not from anywhere near here, at least I do not believe I am. I know that must sound strange....
Let's just say I was brought here under circumstances that until I know you better, are best kept to myself.

I have made my home up in the mountains to the north of the village here and came down to do some exploring. This was the first inn I came across and being cold and hungry from my trek down the mountainside, I stopped.

It seems to be a popular place. I was hoping to meet someone such as yourself to talk with and like I said earlier, learn of the history of this place."

She hoped he didn't think her too strange and would be willing to answer her questions. She didn't want to be rude, but she had learned at an early age not to trust anyone until you got to know them better. There was no way she was going to tell him where she was from and how she came to be in a strange place. She certainly wasn't going to explain to him who and what she was...she would talk with him and get a better feel for just who this Nagash was. Then MAYBE, if she felt she could trust him, she would open up a little more.

[_Nagash_]

As she spoke about the talking wolf again, Nagash was on the verge of deciding that this woman had drunk too much already. But since this was not really a nice thing to say, especially to someone who shared her table with you, he decided to humour her and look in the direction she had pointed.
To his great surprise, he saw that Wulfric of the Founders was standing there. And the shady elf who was talking to Wulfric looked familiar as well: it was Pas of the elven realms of Calael.
His mind was reeling with the sheer unlikelyness of all this as he shook his head and focused on what Amberlyn was saying.

She refused to tell where she came from. Perhaps she was being hunted by someone? Or was she just being dodgy? Looking her in the eyes, he decided to believe her given reason, despite the fact that a known spy was standing within spitting distance from them.
Sending a good looking woman to pry secrets from Nagash was too obvious a method for the elven intelligence gatherers.

So he shrugged off his paranoia for now and nodded.

" Well met, Amberlyn. It seems that we find ourselves in high ranked company today. The talking wolfman at the bar there is Wulfric, the leader of the Barnabite guild called the Founders of Unequivocal Lunacy. The lad standing next to him is Pas, a follower of Angelique and a known spy working for the elven guild of Calael os si Eilol. "

He emptied another of his wines and arched an eyebrow.

" My tongue dislikes speaking elven though. Not guttural enough to my liking. Troll is much more elegant if you get the hang of it.

As for the history of this place, I know nothing of it. I'm sure the tale is rather blunt though, it being called 'The Lusty Dragon'. "

He grinned and winked at her, before breathing deep and drinking all his remaining drinks in the silence that fell between them. Then, arching an eyebrow, he broke that silence again.

" I doubt if that is what you meant though. Since you do not recognize Wulfric for who, or indeed what, he is you cannot be from Islan. I can tell you a lot of tales about that one, both true and untrue. Let's start with Islan though. The isle's natives are the lizardpeople. They stick to their forests though and when we first arrived here we learned not to meddle in their affairs. They are numerous, but need little to no housing, nor a lot of room. So we let them be in their habitats and they let us be.

We, the humanoid, goblin, lycanthropic and demonoids on this island originate from a place called Tonan and are actually colonists of sorts. A few ages ago we were forced to leave our beloved Tonan as the whole island was being plagued by earthquakes and vulcanic eruptions. As we sailed back later, the island was no longer there. I still do not know what happened to it.

The island is now divided in three dominions, led by Leto, Barnabas and Angelique. Some say that they're ancient gods, I say they're power-hungry mortals. Within the dominions there are various guilds. There's Wulfric's Founders of Unequivocal Lunacy, Pas's guild Calael, the Metal Militia, the Order of Almighty Fishingrods, the Foundation, the Vampiryc Dragon Clan and finally the Thirteenth Baatorian Legion.

Enough of my talking though. I'll let you ask some questions so I can send some more drinks inside. And we still have a lunch coming, don't we? "

It had been a long time since Nagash last encountered someone who wasn't from Islan. He wondered where she did originate from, and decided not to tell her that he was the leader of the Order of Almighty Fishingrods. He could always tell her that when the opportunity arose. Besides, the was not telling him where she came from and the child in him was delighted with the thought that now he had a little secret too.

He waved at the barmaid and gestured that he wanted more drinks. While turning back to Amberlyn, he allowed his gaze to linger on secretive Pas and hairy old Wulfric. He chuckled, and winked at the two before turning his attention to Amberlyn again.

[Natiska]

Sitting at the open end of the cave her mind started to wander. Past experiences brought both a smile and a frown to her small face. Distinguishing between the two these days was almost impossible, but if one knew her closely they would see it in her dead eyes. Wrapping a blanket around her, for effect only she listened to the crackling fire behind her. It was a cool night but the blanket was just a sad attempt to feel human again. To be human again.......her thoughts were interrupted with the knowledge that she would never again feel that kind of warmth. She had made her peace with this many years ago, but it would be a lie to say that she didn't dream about it; at least once in awhile.

The sun was starting to descend on the horizon and her thirst was growing. Surprisingly her thirst for the company of others was also growing so tonight, she decided to make a trip into town. The tavern they called "The Lusty Dragon" always seemed to hold some kind of entertainment and it was a good night to forget her thoughts. To get away from the 'how' and 'why' questions that were getting to her lately. Natiska didn't understand why she needed to go into seclusion every so often; but the fact of the matter was.....she did.

::squeak squeak::

Wiggling her bare toes the rodent shuffled his way over her feet. They knew that they were no longer in danger around her as her hunger had grown more sophisticated over the years and a tiny mouse would just not suffice. Making eye contact just briefly he ran over to the fire as if to warm his own feet before disappearing into the cracks of the wall.

"Yes, a trip to town is definately in order", she said outloud to no one. Now thinking, 'Maybe I will get lucky and the barfights will be abound.' Laughing at drunk men had become somewhat of a past time.

Throwing aside the blanket her feet pressed down into the ground so that her body could rise to a standing postion. Staying safely within the shade her eyes pierced the sun as it continued to go downward. Stroking her long hair she braided it down the side quickly and changed into some more maunuverable clothing. One never knew who they would run into while out and being in a dress made it impossible to fight off anyone that might think they had the advantage......and fighting before bitting was always fun to her.

Leaving the fire as is, is what she always did. This way, if it burned the surroundings away she would have a good excuse to keep moving. Glacing back to the sky, the sun was down enough for her to move about freely so she grabbed her cape and made her way to the tavern.

[Natiska]

Good news for her was that there were many trees blanketing shade from the sunset. There were still a few hours to go, but it made for a nice walk. The beams glistening off the snow made everything look so pure and innocent. Funny how snow had that ability so effortlessly. One could be in the worst part of town and you would not even know it if there were fresh fallen snow to hide it's true intentions.

Bad news was that the glare from the snow was starting to irritate her eyes. Pulling her cape down a bit to cover the tops of her eyelids a small grunt could be heard from her throat. The Lusty Dragon was not far from here, in fact, she could already smell it's belly and wondered why it was so full at this early hour. This place never tended to get full until after the sun had gone completely down.

::crackling from steps up ahead::

Stopping mid step she cocked her head and closed her eyes embracing the smell of man. Hunger was creeping up on her fast, so fast in fact that she decided to do this man a favor and eliminate the tease portion of the hunt. Moving forward at a speed that would remove any noise to alert him of her presence she stopped just short of being behind the large body. Tapping him softly on the shoulder she waitted for him to turn around.

"G'day." She said cooly as her left arm swung around and grabbed the man tight. His eyes widened with fear instaneously as anyone would at the sight of her fangs coming towards them. There was no time for him to yelp; she sank her lips around his neck and begun to suck. The warmth of blood filled her mouth and began to make it's way down her throat. Moaning a little she couldn't help but suck harder as one would do when they are parched. Their hearts began to beat together and his arms tried to grab at her but with no luck. Limp hands just held her elbows as she continued to drain him of life. Once finished she dropped the man to the ground and smiled down at his now white face.

Sighing happily she grabbed some nearby snow and washed her hands and face. The last thing she wanted was to show up at the tavern with blood on her. Licking her lips for one last time her body stood still as she could feel his soul intwine with hers before getting completely eaten up within her. Grabbing his wrist and pulling him under a nearby bush was a good way to keep any company he may have been keeping from finding him before she made it to the town.

Almost bored now she kept to the shadows and left the 'stroll' for another day. Besides, the town was notorious for guards both at the gate and among the street walkers so it was to her advantage to just forget the walking and get to where she wanted to be....fast. It probably wouldn't be such a big deal, except for a the death of one of their own a few moons ago. She would not deny or admit any fault but her face was the last one they saw in the alley. Therefore they had alot of questions that they would like to ask her. If they found out she was in fact a vampire than she could possibly be blamed for alot of deaths within the town; her fault or not. Pulling her cape once again down to save her eyes from the stress she moved onward.

Before one would be able to blink she was at the back door to the tavern. One more push of energy was produced and she was now staring at the perplexed bartender who had always wanted to ask her how she just 'appeared' but never had the guts to actually ask. Pushing it away as 'I must have been busy and didn't see you arrive' he relaxed his gaze.Giving a mischevious grin while removing her hood she winked at the man and nodded. He knew that this was her way of saying, 'yes, I have a way...but I will never tell.'

Her senses had in fact picked up alot of bodies within this building, she had never seen it so full at this early time. There was one smell though that she was surprised to smell. A certain male smell that she knew oh so well. Her ears took in the crackling fire and the murmurs of conversation all around her. Not turning as of yet she took in one more deep breath as to 'double check' her safety and slowly removed her cape while ordering a drink from the man behind the bar, and finishing the movement by taking a silver piece from her pocket and throwing it on the bar.

"Send a round to the man and lady," she continued while nodding towards the table Nagash sat.

"You know him?" the bartendar asked. He was not use to her knowing anyone and thought it bizarre that she wanted to buy a drink for someone else as her demeanor usually kept almost unnoticable.

"One could say that." she chuckled almost immediately as flashes of the past drinking episodes flooded her mind. "One might not though...depends on how you look at it." she continued with her puzzle.

"Have you ever given a straight answer M'Lady?" he questioned teasingly.

"Of course not, where is the fun in that?" she winked again and pulled towards her the bowl of nuts that lay on the counter. After glancing towards the fire she saw that it was flooded with people trying to get warm. She had in the past used her female body to persuade men to move so that she could gaze into the flames, but with the winter weather, even she felt guilty for doing so. Keeping her seat she left the human bodies where they were to warm up.

Motioning to a barmaid the man behind the bar sent Natiska's offering to the appointed table. "So why are you not at home with your man on such a cold night?" the bartender teased. He had asked her this almost every night he saw her and knew that he would get the same response he always did, therefore he winked back to her this time and went back to his duties.

[_Nagash_]

The conversation Nagash and Amberlyn had was interrupted by the barmaid, who had given them their latest order mere minutes ago.
Arching an eyebrow, Nagash was about to inquire what the hell the woman was thinking, but before he could do so she put two drinks on the table and pointed at the bar.

" The drinks are on the lady over there. "

" What....... Eh? "

The wench pointed again and Nagash turned his head. Among all the rabble, sitting at the bar was a very familiar face. A small, feminine yet almost child-like, face. He jumped up in surprise and exclaimed:

" NATTIE-POO! "

It was nigh impossible that this would occur. He decided to skip the hows and whys though and try to prove definitively that it indeed was Natiska. He'd need music for that though.

He stood up and made his way towards the bar. Halfway there he paused and took forth another coin, bowing towards a man who had been talking really loudly.

" I noticed you have a... pretty loud voice. Wanna earn some boozing money? "

The man said nothing, but nodded eagerly.

" Good man. Here's some silver. Sing something as loud as you can. I don't care much for how good or bad of a singer you are. Just sing. Loudly. Whatever happens. "

The man nodded again and stood up, clearing his throat.
Meanwhile, Nagash had reached Natiska. Grinning like a complete idiot and hugging her closely, he asked:

" Where in the name of Angelique's Cervix have you been?!?"

The man with the loud voice obviously was no singer, but his voice had a magnificent volume. Everyone fell quiet and cast annoyed looks at him.

" Ah, excellent. Let's save the stories for later. "

Then, kneeling and extending his hand to her, mockingly imitating the way the aristocrats did it,

" May I have this dance, milady? "

[Amberlyn]

Nagash had just finished speaking when their dinner arrived. It smelled wonderful, although she would prefer her meat a little more bloody. It was accompanied by two more drinks. The barkeep's wife told them a woman seated at the bar had sent them.

Nagash seemed very surprised by the presence of the woman and immediately jumped up from the table.

Amberlyn didn't know who to be more upset with, the woman for interrupting their conversation or Nagash for so rudely leaving the table.

The woman seemed to be someone he knew quite well and hadn't seen in a long time. Amberlyn shrugged her shoulders and turned her attention back to her meal. He had given her a lot to think about.

She now knew where she was..an island called Islan. She had never heard of it, it had not been in her studies back home. Of course, the Elders would have been very careful to keep any places she might be sent out of her lessons. It was also very interesting that the natural inhabitants of this place were lizard creatures. She wondered if the Elders had taken that into consideration when Islan was chosen.

She had heard of the other place before...Tonan. If she remembered correctly, one of her brother's friends had been there. That had been a very long time ago though and she had only heard them talking of it in passing. He had seemed to have loved living there, too bad it was destroyed.

From what this Nagash had told her, Islan's inhabitants were a divided group. She would have to learn more about these "gods". It would seem that if she was to make a place for herself here she was going to have to align herself with one of them. She didn't care what they were called, when you got down to the root of any religion they were all the same... same beliefs, same gods, just different names.

How convienient that leaders of various factions had found there way here to the Lusty Dragon on the very day she decided to go exploring. Was it just coincidence or was something or someone arranging things today?

She would finish her meal, say a farewell to Nagash, if he wasn't too involved with the other woman...then see what happened when she left. It was getting dark now, and the dark always made things more interesting.

[Natiska]

His questions came at her a mile a minute but all she felt was his embrace. Natiska had not realized how much she had missed Nagash and wondered quietly why she had stayed away so long. Especially considering she had not planned on bumping into him this night either. Wrapping her arms around his mid section she squeezed but was careful not to squeeze 'too' hard. Burying her face into his chest she let go as he went down to one knee.

" May I have this dance, milady? "

The most obnoxious noise came from one of the barmen and she hoped that he was considering himself to be singing. Raising an eyebrow and smirking out loud she took Nagash's hand into hers and winked, "We have always been able to dance to, just about anything I believe."

With that she took the lead and pulled him up from his bowed position and twirled him to the dance floor right before twirling herself.

The rest of the bar and it's inhabitants had gone invisible to her for this moment. For now, it was time to dance. To talk with others would have to wait. She would be lying if she didn't aknowledge that she was very curious to find out who the woman was that sat with Nagash on this night.

Smiling and laughing softly she yelled, "Hey Naggie, remember this move?!" Shaking her rump as if to do the 'chicken' she danced her way closer.

[_Nagash_]

As Natiska started to do the chicken, Nagash did the duck-walk across the room. Where the two met, they took each other's hands and began to dance a seemingly unstructured dance as the 'singer' was starting to really enjoy his part and was beginning to sing exceptionally loud. He was singing a song now which described how this tavern had begotten it's name.

While the two danced, many of the patrons barked out a laugh was soon as the more lewd details of this tale were unveiled.
The song finished, and so did the dance. Nagash winked at the man who had shouted the songs with all his might and who was now trying to mend his vocal cords with ale.

He then took Natiska by the hand and led her to the table he had shared with Amberlyn. He grinned at Amberlyn and gestured for Natiska to sit down on his chair.

" Sorry for that, Amberlyn. This here is Natiska, an old friend of mine whom I haven't seen in.... errr....... ages. Never thought to see her again in a place like this.

Natiska, this is Amberlyn. She was so kind to share her table with me when I arrived her just now. I'm afraid I rather abruptly -rudely- left her side when I saw you sitting there... "

[Amberlyn]

Nagash brought the woman back to the table and introduced her to Amberlyn. She seemed to be someone he held quite dear, and as he had been such a wealth of information so far, Amberlyn hoped that this woman would be also.

Well met, Natiska, friend of Nagash. Please sit with us. Before he got up to entertain the whole tavern, Nagash was giving me somewhat of a history lesson. I thought when he saw you our conversation might be over. I am happy to see him return with a friend. I say we finish our meals and then go explore the town some....what do you say? Are you two up for a little adventure this evening?

[Natiska]

Allowing him to lead her back there was still a smile on her face and a laughter that could be heard when she sat down facing the woman. There were very few people in this world that would be allowed such persuasion in her life. Any persuasion if the truth be told. Nagash was different though, and good or bad, he knew it.

" Sorry for that, Amberlyn. This here is Natiska, an old friend of mine whom I haven't seen in.... errr....... ages. Never thought to see her again in a place like this.

Natiska, this is Amberlyn. She was so kind to share her table with me when I arrived her just now. I'm afraid I rather abruptly -rudely- left her side when I saw you sitting there... "

"Well met, Natiska, friend of Nagash. Please sit with us. Before he got up to entertain the whole tavern, Nagash was giving me somewhat of a history lesson. I thought when he saw you our conversation might be over. I am happy to see him return with a friend. I say we finish our meals and then go explore the town some....what do you say? Are you two up for a little adventure this evening?"

"History huh? Nagash, you are pretending to be a wise man now a days?" Playfully mocking him as she waitted for him to take a seat she took the smells of her surroundings in. Motioning to the barkeep to have her drink brought over before getting more comfortable in her chair she continued, "Yes, a nice walk around town. I am not sure what kind of exploring you are looking for, but there are alot of twists and turns that can be found on these roads."

Handing the woman who brought her drink over some coins, she requested another drink. The one she had was half gone as it was, and these two had an entire meal to still consume.