Soothing the Soul (Open)

[Nero Czan]

Nero chuckled when she further inquired about Kevith's deal with roving entertainers. He wasn't sure, but he thought it safe to assume that Ora had Never been drunk, and that a pint of ale might scare her half to death. After all, this same woman had nearly screamed after being tickled. He chuckled, deciding it was safe enough. She most likely wouldn't find performing in front of a Tavern too exciting. "Yep. That's the deal. But if you want some Ale, you can sip off mine... Honestly, I'm a bit scared of what it might do to you. Alcohol is potent stuff." He had to visibly fight to stop the wave of laughter that accompanied his short imaginary vision of the scene. As Ora, in essence, gave her approval of his self, Nero couldn't help the smile that grew on his face. He looked her in the eyes before speaking, his legs continuing on the worn road without intervention. "And as I said before, I'm flattered that you'd have me at all, Ora." He smirked, fighting the urge to playfully pat her shoulder. As it always ends up, Nero had made a promise not only as a gesture of kindness or sincerity, but as a sort of challenge issued to himself. A way to demonstrate to his own mind that he was indeed the master of his actions and emotions, and not vice-versa. What really triggered a gleeful grin in Nero's expression however, was the adorable chuckle that popped out from her lips. He had no power to stop his body from laughing with her, but it was not mocking or condescending, but merely happy. Cheerful. "Ora, It seems that every time I think you're done being sweet and beautiful, you always surprise me with another cute piece of the puzzle. You should laugh more often, it's not too difficult. Besides..." Nero smirked, his head turning back to observe his path, and his final words were carried along the gentle breeze, just soft enough to entail a certain tenderness as he continued on his path. "I like seeing you happy like that."

[Ora Sa'vina]

Ora shook her head rather suddenly. “I do not think I would be able to perform in front of strangers.” Her eyes watched Nero for a moment as she mulled over the thought of alcohol in any aspect. “That is if I even like the taste of it. I will try it though; it sounds like quite the interesting drink.” Ora stated finally, a curious thing was what he spoke of. “I must seem childish, unaware of so many different things.” She frowned at the dirt path beneath them, her eyes watching her tan boots lightly pad along.

The young woman enjoyed the small moment of laughter with Nero. The back round she came from was a loving one, but she was raised to be respected and proper, all while still being friendly. Laughter was something she experienced as a child, frequently, but rarely was it with anyone but her own mother.

Violet eyes moved to look at Nero as he finished his thought; his voice was soft and sincere. If Ora had a gold Miza for each time this man made her blush, she would be a much richer woman. Pink tinted cheeks were obstructed by white hair once Nero’s words reached Ora, her eyes returning to her feet. “I will try to appear happier then.” Ora said with a soft smile, her voice was quiet and thoughtful. “I will try to laugh more, as well.” Ora’s smile was directed towards Nero this time.

After walking in silence for several paces, Ora spoke up. “Would it be possible to stop by the temple for a short while before we go to the Stallion?” Her eyes moved from Nero to the city that grew closer. “I would appreciate thanking my God and Goddess properly if it is not too much of a bother.”

[Nero Czan]

Nero smiled earnestly each time she bashfully turned to her feet. Her hair would brush back and forth with her steps as her adorable little smile tried it's best to stay small and inconspicuous. Her soft embarrassed voice, barely above a whisper, was a sincere reminder of her modest upbringing. It had seemed to Nero that Ora had grown up in a polite and friendly, yet still socially-limited, society, but piece-by-piece, she was opening herself up to the world, or at least, to Nero. "No no. Don't appear happier, Be happier." He smirked playfully at her. The correction was a small one, but the meaning was world's apart. "Hollow feelings are only lies." He nevertheless appreciated her willingness and curiosity towards all of his interests and advice. He would thank her again for that later. The Gods forbid if he overload her system with compliments and thanks. Nero was always a respectful person overall, but one think he kept a very open mind about was the matter of religion. He had a few things to thank these Gods for himself, after all. "It would be no bother at all. Think of me as an Escort. Just tell me where we're going, and off we'll go." He smirked, and intended to hold true to his word. He decided it'd be fun to let her take the lead for a bit. "I may have a few words with them myself, for leaving me such a beautiful daughter as a companion." His expression morphed into a smile, and his voice turned into a sharp whistle, breaking quickly into a tune he had heard once, maybe twice, in the Stallion.

[Ora Sa'vina]

“Be happier…” Ora nodded slightly. “I am, though. At least, I am happier now than I was a moment ago.” She thought of the day again, her emotional roller coaster, while it was usually happy and pleasant emotions there was the occasional harsh, grating one. A smile darted across her face. “I do not think I could have a hollow feeling if I wanted to.” She said with a small sigh.

“The temple of the Gods, I am not sure where it is exactly, but Ryshaltze pointed in the direction it is located.” She paused a moment, her index finger of her right hand tapping her chin as she thought. “I believe it was east of the Stallion…” Her violet eyes moved to look at Nero. “Do you by chance know where that is?” She frowned slightly; she was so dependent on Nero it seemed.

Her ears listened happily to the tune he whistled while they walked. It was foreign, as most things were to her. While the tune was not one she knew, her feet felt the tug of fluid movements, the desire to dance tickled her toes. Ora resisted, the last thing she wanted was to dance like a fool down the road.

[Nero Czan]

Nero had visited the temple on various occasions before this day, all of them non-religious, and could plot 5 different routes to get there. Syrilas was where he grew up, and he knew every corner of it with at least sub-intimate detail. He smiled to her as he spoke, his tune ending on a high note. "Of course. Syrilas is as close to a home as I've had since I left Cyphrus. Don't you worry about anything Ora, I got it covered." He winked to her as he returned his gaze to the road, his eyes traveling down the path. As he thought about it, he realized it had indeed been a while since he had visited that Temple. He was last there maybe four years ago, when he had last seen the Priest who had allowed him to eat lunch in the chapel. As they approached the high walls of Syrilas, Nero found himself casually mapping out the path a few turns ahead of time, lest the afternoon traffic disturb his impromptu ways. And, As he expected the crowds were bustling, and the last thing he needed was to be divided from Ora. With a voice above the crowd, Nero told Ora that they were taking a little "shortcut," and motioned for her to stay close as he stepped into a side alley, it's thin walkway barely allowing for his shoulder width. His focus was divided between the winding series of passageways and alleys, and Ora, cautiously making sure she was not left behind. Before even he knew it, they had arrived at the modest, yet spiritually elegant, Temple. It's been too long, old friend...

[Ora Sa'vina]

The young woman smiled at her companion and happily followed his lead. "Good, if you did not know the way, I am sure we would both be lost with my directions." Ora was quite pleased with the idea of visiting a new temple, as well as praying to her God and Goddess. As they continued to walk towards the city, Ora thought about her day, like a child coming home from her first day of school, she wanted to tell someone about it.

Walking through the gates was reminiscent of her morning, but this time she didn't look around with a confused expression and sit down with a feeling of defeat. The city was busy, busier than it had been in the morning, Ora found herself struggling to keep up with Nero through the crowds. Out of fear of being consumed by the crowds, her small hands reached out and gripped the back of Nero's shirt.

Once Nero stepped into the alley, and along with him, Ora, she let go of his shirt. In the thin alleyway Ora walked behind him, she fit easily in the small space, but Nero was at the "just-right" size. Ora's attention was focused on following Nero, getting lost in the maze of alleyways would likely doom Ora for at least the remainder of the day.

Almost suddenly the alleyway opened up and before her was an elegant temple. A smile spread across Ora's face. The young woman bowed slightly to Nero, her small figure slowly moved to the Temple doors, her hands grasping the old, worn, metal handles. With a rough pull, Ora opened the door, stepping inside of the beautiful temple. It was quiet inside, only the echo of their feet and the occasional mutters of fellow temple goers.

Small violet eyes scanned the temple, beautiful stone sculptures graced the walls and pillars. Strong, wooden pews lined the temple, creating paths for them to walk. Ora quietly made her way to the front of the temple, with great care, she set down her bag, trying to make as little noise as possible. Once her hands were free, the small Konti knelt at the pew, her small pale hands rested, palms together, with her fingers brushing against her lips. Quietly the woman began to mutter in Kontineise. [k]"Avalis and Laviku, blessed be the day. It has been a day indeed, I must thank you, Avalis, for giving me strength, I feel your presence when I need it most." [/k] Ora's eyes were closed as she continued to speak softly to her hands. The young woman continued to thank her deities as well as pray for those whom helped her.

[Nero Czan]

Nero smiled as he leaned against he stone wall, observing her pious prayers. It was good to have faith. To have belief. For the longest time, he was without hope, and despising the gods for what he believed was an unfair act of merciless slaughter. Then again, he was still a naive child, and it couldn't be helped. As he grew and matured, he realized that the Gods will work in their own ways, and that, as Nature does throughout eternity, everything will come full circle eventually. He decided to make a few prayers of his own while he was there, a tiny muttering as his eyes looked out throw the vaulted stained glass. Prayers for his lost family; for his friends, both new and old; and for his own Luck, because that has been something he had been lacking for a good while. At least, in most matters. Meeting Ora was an exception, and one he was willing to embrace. Nero chuckled at how his mind automatically made that into a double-entendre. There was no helping who he was, and his "romantic" nature penetrated down to his very soul. Nevertheless, he had managed to keep most of that side away from the innocence of Ora's spirit, and he intended to do so as long as necessary. He would hate to taint such a perfect flower with his fanciful pleasures. After her prayers were finished, Nero waited for her and walked out of the steep chapel. He held the door open as she passed, noting the thickness and wondering why in the world they'd need to be so strong. Maybe they're to keep out the Gods as well... He shrugged as his mind lost interest, and walked back to Ora's side, gazing at the small garden in front of the Temple. "So, I take it the God's are doing well. How about yourself?" He chuckled. He always enjoyed jokes, and he had often gotten himself into trouble from some Zealous types when he had used the Gods themselves in his fun. He had hoped that by now Ora would be a bit more relaxed and at ease with him, and maybe, Just maybe, Even grace him with that sweet laugh of hers. Sweet as Honey itself.

[Ora Sa'vina]

The young woman finished her prayers and opened her eyes, they danced about the temple, taking in the stained glass that surrounded her. Slowly, Ora stood, picking up her bag quietly, she bowed slightly as she exited her pew and headed towards the door. A sense of fulfillment rested in her, she had successfully made it to Sylira, found a place to stay, and even managed to become close to entire strangers. A smile crossed the young Konti's face as she exited the temple, her violet eyes looked up at Nero as she spoke. "Thank you," She said to him.

A small laugh escaped Ora as her eyes scanned the garden. "They are well," Her eyes moved from the plants swaying slightly in the breeze to Nero. "I am doing quite well as well, although, I am still hungry. And yourself?" A smile grew across her face. "And I am quite intrigued still with the ale drink you have told me about." Ora began to walk slowly through the garden, her fingers lightly touching leaves and flowers as she passed them. "To the stallion then?"

[Nero Czan]

Nero's smile widened at the sound of her laughter, a nectar unparalleled. He hoped he would hear a lot more of it in the coming hours, and as she reiterated her interest in the Alcohol, he became sure of it. To be completely fair, He had warned her of it's effects, but his companion was a curious one, a very curious one indeed. Curiosity can be a vice as well as a virtue, but Nero would not let any harm come to her, inebriated or not. He smirked as he started towards another alleyway, his voice playfully ringing through the afternoon air. "Fine. You shall have as much Ale as you desire, Ora. I did warn you however." He chuckled, as he could not stop the image of Ora drunk from invading every crevice of his mind. He could be certain there would be no need to find other entertainment however. Ora would be enough fun if she decided to let her curiosity over-take her mind. Nero was as certain as he could ever be with that statement, and he mentally chuckled at the universal meanings of his words. As Nero once again swerved through the mass crowds that plagued the streets, diving between alley-ways like a bat in a cave. He smiled, and even laughed a bit, at the woman clinging to his back, desperately tearing at his clothes in order to avoid separation. "Would you like a ride, Ora?" He asked out of playful comedy, as were half of his words, but with a certain honesty and seriousness to the proposition. He wasn't entirely worried about his suit, which had enough tears to warrant a new one, but neither he wasn't fond of the idea of Ora being lost in this wave of torrential people. Nevertheless, they made it without incidence, and, with a casual wave to the bartender, he strolled in with his companion, and ordered up a round of drinks and a meal for the both of them, throwing out a handful of coins without too much counting. As chivalrous as he may be at times, Nero was overtaken by his darker side, and would, and literally had just, paid to see this sweet and innocent woman Drunk. With no ill intentions of course. Nero was honorable to the end, even when it came to his late-night affairs.

[Ora Sa'vina]

The young woman shook her head, she wasn't planning on having a lot ale, just a taste of it. "I only want to try it," Ora stated, her eyes glancing up at Nero before looking back before them. Ora was not entirely sure of what she was getting herself into, she imagined it wouldn't do too much to her. The woman continued to think about the mysterious substance she would soon be consuming while they walked.

Nero entered a large crowd and, like before, Ora held onto the back of his shirt like a small child. The thought of getting lost in such a crowd was a bit more than slightly terrifying. His question was a bit confusing. How would I ride him? She asked herself, it didn't take long for her to figure out, it was better not to know. "I will be fine." Ora said to his back. "You said you would restrain from physical contact." Ora half joked. "Do not try to trick me into letting you." The second part of her statement was a joke.

As they entered the Rearing Stallion, the young woman walked up to the bar where Nero was ordering various things. Her face slightly blushed once she saw he was paying for everything. She had an odd sense of half pride and half guilt about other people doing things for her. Ora decided not to protest, she had learned Nero was too stubborn for that. The Konti sat at the bar and watched the bartender pour a dark brown drink from a cask, as it filled foam bubbled up to the top, once it was full the mug was placed in front of her. "I think this glass might be the size of my stomach." Ora stated, slightly perplexed at why anyone would drink this much.

A small, pale index finger slowly poked the foam that was beginning to dribble down the side, violet eyes wide as she investigated the drink. She sniffed it, wrinkling her nose almost instantly after the first whiff. Her eyes turned to Nero, an expression of confusion on her face. "It smells... Odd." Her eyes moved back to the mug and with a small shrug she picked up the mug with both hands and took a small sip. As she set the mug down a small amount of foam remained on her nose, which she quickly wiped off with the back of her hand.

Ora sat, contemplating what she had just ingested. It was an odd taste, but not a bad one. It was even slightly enjoyable the way it seemed to lightly warm her insides. It had a rich, filling taste that was hard for the young woman to mentally put into words. "It is not as bad as I thought it would be." She said to Nero with a smile, her fingers moved back towards the plate of food before her, taking a piece of bread from it and slowly chewing it. "Thank you, Nero." Ora said calmly, smiling down at her food and drink.