Look at what the cat dragged in (Leon,closed)

[Tressa]

Tressa watched him intently his gaze meeting hers, she could feel the tension in the air thickening, it was like the feeling before something fate changing happened. Her stomach flipped and for a moment she thought she might be sick at the table. Staring into his eyes with his the same into hers she felt awkward, like her inner being was being searched and observed. It wasn't the casual eye contact she was used to, it was more. Something more intense and it overwhelmed her leaving her wondering if the sickness she felt had been induced by some wretched cook or if was truly her body afflicted by the raging war between her heart and mind. She wanted him to invite her, but her mind constantly weighed the possiblities, the facts, the doubts. Leaving her wondering of it would only end with grief as had her last journey. The time came too quickly when her question was answered, would she stay or be asked to follow? “Sooo” and then he paused, dragging on the vowels to prolong the wait befor he finished and she listened intently, dreading and looking forward his next words. It was strange to her how this man before her had so much power over her emotions. She had no doubt that his most insignifigant mood change could alter hers as well. After all, the Thief's cruel joke had left her trying to ease his humilation and she would do it again. Finally he spoke again, picking up his sentence where he'd left it “I have a lot of things to do to get ready for my travels later? And I was sort of wondering... if you weren’t to busy and all… if you wouldn’t mind to accompany me.? I mean because I don’t know this city very well and what not.” A look of shock came over her face, her eyes widened in surprise. She had expected some short quick thought goodbye. Consisting of thank yous and if I see you agains. Instead he'd chosen to ask her to tag along. "Well, I don't know the city all that well either so we'll be getting lost together than." A smile she couldn't restrain brightened her face and a long lost energy filled her. She wasn't alone in the world anymore, atleast not for now anyhow. It was a feeling she'd missed dearly. She was a Kelvic and by natural instinct her being needed companionship. She had doubted she'd ever have it again. She wasn't fond of most humans, most other races frightened her and she'd yet to encounter another kelvic who by the law of nature she didn't consider as a potential meal. She would accompany him wherever he wished, she was no leader, but would happily follow behind and help if she could. She was happy now, hyper and ready to unleash her energy upon Syliras. Hopefully avoiding any incidents or bad run ins with the knights. "I'm a Kelvic by the way, incase you haven't figured it out" She wasn't sure why she'd blurted out these words, but they came quickly of their own will.

[Leon]

This heart beats like a thousand drums All for love in its name This mind races at the speed of sound Trying to win first place Back and forth they go, humming the tunes To and from they sway, lost in the dance Ones arms held out for another to hold Eyes searching for that spark Never does it falter, this love Never does it not shine on It’s the beginning of something special Its where forever starts And all of it can be felt By the drumbeat of the heart He was completely confused by her reaction. From the moment the words left his lips she began to smile. Her eyes seemed to hold a flame that even the oceans could not hope to put out. It was beyond him why she seemed to be so excited about them not biding each other farewell. And from the way she held herself it was assumed that she just couldn't beleive he would asker her. Had she been hoping all this time for him to ask her as well? “Well, I don't know the city all that well either so we'll be getting lost together than." Those words held so much more meaning than she ever probably intended them to. “getting lost together.” He had never been so lucky to heard someone ever offer the the chance to get lost with him. Most people avoided him all together. Maybe it had something to do with the way he looked, the way he acted or some mixture of the two. Yet here sat this wonderful angel, that was way to good for him to even be seen with, proposing to get lost together. This had to be some kinda of mistake. He wanted to look around and see if she was talking to someone else, but he knew that she wasn't. She must have had a lot of trust in him. She had decided to room with him, a complete stranger. “I'm a Kelvic by the way, incase you haven't figured it out" He watched with interest as people around him looked in her direction. It was apparent that people didn’t take the statement lightly. Kelvic, he had heard of that word before some where in his tribe. It was held to be a great honor to be such a race. It was said that those who are one with themselves, and found themselves worthy to the gods could be imbued with the soul of a creature that they were most compatible with. She was apparently one of those special people granted the gift. But they were stories and stories had a funny way of being told in such a manner to make it interesting. He would find out later, he was sure he didn’t wish to bring it up, and risk looking a fool. "Well then we have a lot of walking ahead of us in the near future.” The smile passed over his lips, letting the words roll off his tongue that much smoother. Leon got up gathering his small bit of possessions and out reached his hand to hers. It was a mere gesture to help her up, but the whole moment left Leon ’s heart beating wildly, hoping she would take it. He had acquired a strong friend in his mind, and that was enough for him. If she didn’t take his hand, he wouldn’t be at all hurt by it. Right now he was the happiest he had been in ages. He was no longer alone, at least for now. The day was going to be full of adventure, and he couldn't wait to start it off with a bang

[Tressa]

Every set of eyes in the inn had turned towards her and Tressa suddenly felt unsure of herself, the feeling of their eyes on her making her skin crawl. Cornered by so many staring eyes she felt like the odd one and wished she could shrink back into the shadows. Being the center of attention was all well and good for some, but she preferred to more or less blend in, a hard thing to do but it suited her. Some looked in curiousity, while others in acceptance, but those looks of disapproval were the most apparant to her. Many people disliked Kelvics for their nature. "A beast that can take the shape of a human, not a human that can take the shape of a beast, you're only an animal in disguise" She remembered that sentence spoken to her so long ago and the hurt of the bitter truth in it still stung. Wanting to escape the moment Tressa slid as far into the corner of the table as she could. An uneffective attempt to hide herself from the majorities line of view. "Um"... She mummbled softly having no idea what to really say. Her eyes lowered to the table, unwilling to further acknowledge the attention. A soft hue of pink had washed over her cheeks, she was ashamed of her stupidity of voicing it so loudly they had all heard. " Well then we have a lot of walking ahead of us in the near future." His words broke through her emotional barrier now projected against the crowd and her eyes fluttered from the table to his face. His eyes held no judgement towards her. Seeing this she let a small smile return to her face. Confidence slowly finding its way back to her. "I don't mind walking it's refreshing." She replied her voice the only tell of her remaining unsurities left by the now retreating stares. Seeing him stand sent a wave of relief over her. She would be glad to rid herself of the inn and then his hand extended towards her. It was a simple gesture that left her smiling widely up at him. She slowly accepted it, placing her hand in his and drawing herself to her feet. Her hand felt small in his and her stomache churned slightly, she was still uncertain of herself.

[Leon]

The softness of a touch Breeds hope into this heart once more The eyes that look into his Seem to search into his core Never before had he felt this way A lost soul, longing for another to stay To hear the words, they willingly give. To smile, with his heart open to love. She was changing him, With each moment they spent together She was bettering him, making him that much stronger He longed for her, for the softness of her touch. Finding that part of him buried long ago. The pieces that he swore were scattered like the sand She held, delicately in the palm of her hand. "I don't mind walking it's refreshing." The feeling of her hand entering his, the way her fingers slide so delicately into place. He was sure this was what heaven felt like. It sent shivers up and down his spine, leaving a trail of goose bumps down his luckily sheltered arms. He tried to fight back the feeling of complete delight at her acceptance of his gesture. But no matter how hard he tried to hide it the feeling took control and a smile formed upon his lips. It took only a moment for him to pull her up. He didn’t have to do much pulling because she seemed to rise willfully. He didn’t want to let go of her hand so he made the decision that he wouldn’t. Within moments of his smile, Leon used the vast bit of his strength force her basically out the door with him, making some sort of energetic fool of himself. “Come then! There’s not time to waste!” People looked at him questioningly as he pulled her out of the doorway. He knew the atmosphere had completely turned against her in the room and this was his way of changing that to making him look the idiot. He could see by the looks on people’s faces that the task he had set out to accomplish had been done with flying colors. He was unsure why they disapproved of her birth rights so much, but it was there own foolishness for thinking any less of Tressa. When the pair made it out the door Leon smiled even larger. Though the door closed quickly behind them he could still feel that all the eyes had been left looking upon him and left them forgetting all about the girl. Leon let out of a small chuckle at his exit plans they hadn’t been the brightest but they had more than the desired effect. His soft voice was filled with the evidence of laughter. “Well, I guess they will have a new thing to talk about for a while yet. I’m sorry the way they looked at you. But you will have to explain to me what is a kevlic?" Leon paused unsure if he had pronounced it right, assuming he had he picked it up where he had left off. “Is, because I think it’s kind of cool you being able to change into an animal.” His eyes come across the hand that was still holding his. She could have let go at any time but she had chose to cling on to his, letting the moment of idiocy take place. The redness of his checks showed how much he really couldn’t believe she was still letting him hold her. Totally embarrassed by the situation he broke the connection with her turning from to look awkwardly in the opposite direction. He could see the signs for the market place and with a smile and a newly fueled confidence he took a step forward only looking back at her to saying something she had said countless times to him. “Coming?” He bit his bottom lip at the sight of her, his eyes held a softness that threatened to tell his whole life’s secrets. He wanted nothing more than to look into her eyes. But even that would leave him wanting more. He turned back to his task at hand and started for the market place. It was like a flood of people had been let loose. His eyes struggled to catch a glimpse of the wares that were offered. Guards and beggars littered the surrounding area. It was just like he remembered it from the day before. People bumped into him without warning, giving there sour comments for not paying attention. It had only been about twenty minutes of searching and already he was getting fed up with the events taking place. Taking the time to look around though had landed him on a few of the wares that he was in dire need of. All in all he had collected enough rations to last him two weeks without food. He had found a rope that was similar to the one he had seen used in the trap in the woods. And lastly he restocked all his knick knack toiletries and other gear he found to be useful to day to day routine. As he gathered the last bit of gear he looked around to confront Tressa. He hadn’t ignored her, and on more than one occasion he found himself right beside her smiling and laughing. She was amazing for letting the time pass by. He found the gatherings of people very annoying. He hated being immersed in so much of a diverse culture in which no one knew anyone. The day had dragged on, the sky beginning to show the last little bits of its color as the sun made its march to the east. Regardless how he now looked at it their little adventure was coming to a screeching halt. So badly did he want to keep her with him that he stalled, finding little places to fill the time. His list of items was long ago completed; he had all the materials needed for the journey ahead of him. To his dismay he had only one thing left to do. Now was the hard part saying good bye. He had put this task off earlier by asking her to join him for the day, by letting her come on this rather simple task. He was so grateful that she had accepted but now as he looked up at the sky he was dreading the moment even more so. He couldn’t praise the heavens enough for the time he got to spend with her. He loved how she could bring out the best in him and left him just wanting more. Some how she had made him feel like a real person, her energetic energy did not falter, until now. Maybe she was feeling the same thing he was. His face held the sadness that his heart was feeling. He didn’t want this, he didn’t want to let the only friend he had met in a while to just go away. Nothing could change the fact that if he left now there was not doubt that they were going to drifting apart. It was fate; time had that effect on everything. The longer something was away the less you thought about it. Something about her was keeping him connected to her. The subtle way she carried herself made his heart leap. She was strong natured, she didn’t seem to mind his stories, or listening to what he had on his mind. It felt like she actually cared what he had to say instead of just nodding and letting time pass. The connection between his wants and his needs was a very thin line. He wanted to stay with her, and even thought about giving up on his quest. Forsaking his village was not an option though. He couldn’t just give up on them, no matter how impossible the task seemed. Taking the easy road was not something he could do. Life was full of heart aches and this just had to be one of those. He knew what he must do though that task alone seemed to threaten his very being. It was not like him to draw so much emotion in a passing. But she had captivated every sense he owned, and with powers she didn’t even know she possessed held him to her by the smile that was shining on her face. Leon let his glance descend to the ground beneath her feet. It was going to take all the willpower he could muster to even speak to her. His hand reached up and grabbed the necklace bound to him in an attempt to remind him which path was the right choice. He had others to protect, and one person who he knew he could never let down again. Treading on his words carefully he began to distasteful speak them. “It has been a great day full of adventures and laughs. "I can honestly say without a question of a doubt you have been the most wonderful person to me. I have never in my years met someone even remotely as captivating as you. But I fear that time has turned against me, and I must be on my way.” His words seemed to blend with the sadness that his heart was feeling. He paused only a moment to gaze up at her. She was looking at him, he had her full attention. “I now and always will consider you my friend Tressa, and I pray that our paths do meet again.” It took all he was not to cry. His emotions had never been so bare before. He had never exposed his heart to another and feeling the way he did now he knew why. The way she looked at him sent ice through his veins. She looked destroyed by his words; her pain brought him to a low he never thought he could reach. He took to biting his lips to subdue the pain her face was bringing him. “Why did this hurt so badly? They barely knew one another. Why did he feel this way?” But it was a question he already knew the answer to. His heart knew the truth of why he felt the way that he did, slowly but surely he had fallen in love with her. Though there time together had been short, it was magical and left him longing for an eternity of little adventures just like the one they had today. His heart seemed to stop as he watched a tear fall down her face. She tried to hide it but he saw it all too painfully well as it made its way down her cheek aided by gravity. She offered a few empty words filled with a lot of emotion about how the situation, accepting the events that were transpiring. Leon hung on her every word, but could hold back it any longer. He moved his body a step closer to her, placing his fingertips against softness of her skin. The tear ran upon his fingers falling down to the earth. His action had cut her off mid sentence. He met her eyes with his own, searching for anything that that he could. She was unmistakably beautiful, it was a fact he had grown to know as the time they shared passed. She was as breath taking as she was mysterious. Staring into her eyes was the only way he could find his sorrow fleeting. His very essence was being poured into her as he gazed upon her in amazement. He could feel the drum beat of his heart racing, the only thing letting him know the moment was real. He gave a quick prayer to himself asking for forgiveness at the task he was about to do. Finding courage and strength from an unknown place he began closing the gap between them, till there was nothing but a thin area between them. With the gentlest of care he lifted her head a little higher, no longer unsure of what he was going to do. His hand moved for her chin to her face, brushing the little strands of hair that threatened to get in the way, slowly moving them behind her ear for safe keeping. He found that his body moved naturally with the moment, his face inching closer to hers, until finally his tender lips merged with the moist softness of hers. The second there lips connected, it was like an explosion of emotions had filled him. Time no longer seemed to matter; he was happy, truly happy. “So this is what it feels like.” It was the first time he had ever allowed himself to kiss someone. He found it a task to show compassion and it was a rare find to find someone who even cared in this world enough to even hope to love. But she was different; she had that rare spark that gave him hope in humanity once more. He was only sad to see it fade so quickly. He pulled away, completely blown away by the moment. He was left breathless like countless times before. Though the exchange only lasted a few moments, to him it felt like a life time. He could not look at her; he feared what those eyes held for him. Anger, distrust, vengeance? He had just kissed her without her permission, he was sure there were to be repercussions for his action in the near future. Tears, they fall like the morning rain Soft and subtle There goal to sooth the heart To rid one of the affliction, the pain They can be for joy, for love, sorrow or grief But they are tears all the same. And when they come They fall like the rain His eyes began to water at first, his strength was faltering. It wasn’t long before he himself found a tear wandering to far from its home. He turned from her not wanting her to see. He let out a small waved from behind wiping his face with the other, trying to disguise his pain through direction. “Thank you again Tressa… for everything.” His words gave him the push he needed to start walking, and that he did. Taking slow steps he began to head towards the way out of the city. He paused briefly placing his hand to his lips. He wanted her to go with him, but it was a journey he could never ask of her. “I really hope we meet again Tressa… I really do.”

[Tressa]

Holding his hand it seemed like everybody else in the room ceased to matter and a feeling of security washed over her. He too seemed happy in the moment and she couldn't help but notice the smile that spread across his face at her. It ignited a strange feeling in her, a feeling of warmness. It was like a flame lit inside her and the butterflies soon followed. Lost in her newfound peace she found herself being drug out of the door by the force of him. Following behind willfully she matched his pace.“Come then! There’s not time to waste!” His over excited outburst left her giggling childishly, a smile spread wide across her face as she trailed behind him. The previously scornful looks directed at her had turned to suprised and scolding stares in his direction. Something told her he'd done it purposfully. Had he done it for her? It was a foreign thought, she wasn't used to anybody doing anything for her and it only aided to feed the happiness in her smile. She'd never thought she'd find herself like this, feeling like this, thinking like this. As they exited the closing of the door behind them left a feeling of freedom coursing through her. The sunlight hit her, it's brightness sending her pupils to slits and it's warmth bring out the rosey glow of her cheeks. She hadn't been indoors for so long in a long time and the scent of the earth left her energetic ready to face the bustling crowds of the market. “Well, I guess they will have a new thing to talk about for a while yet. I’m sorry the way they looked at you. But you will have to explain to me what is a kevlic?" His words cut her thoughts short and her grip on his hand tensed, tightening ever so slightly. She hadn't expected this question and it was one she didn't know if she should answer. If she answered truthfully she feared he would dismiss her. But, if she lied, well lies were lies and the truth always surfaced at some point. “Is, because I think it’s kind of cool you being able to change into an animal.” His last words left her gazing at him, her expression resembling that of a frightened deer. If only he knew.. but, he would know in a moment. Gathering her thoughts she opened her mouth to speak, but it took a moment for her words to come. "A kelvic is uh, well, we're special. A long, long time ago a very talented mage decided he didn't want to bother with human servants, so he took animals, all sorts of them. Each one chosen for the traits he found beneficial to him and with his power he crafted the first of us and called them Kelvics. Now we wander free about the world." She gave the only answer to his question she knew, derived from the bedtime stories her mother had told her as a child. A long pause followed her words as she pondered the next thing on her mind, should she correct him? Would it truely matter if she pointed out the difference between a human being able to take the form of an animal, and an animal being able to take the form of a tiger. To explain the deep natured instinct that left her constantly craving fresh meat and needing to resist the urge of taking chase after things. No, it was best left unsaid, did the time arise it needed to be voiced, it would be then that she would. Through all of this she'd continued to embrace his hand wrapped arround hers. With the passing of her words so had been the passing of her discomfort at the subject. She found herself looking into his eyes, it seemed she did this alot. Searching them constantly but for what she seeked she wasn't sure. The redness of his cheeks expressed his humiliation at his act and her smile faded slowly and her eyes met the ground as he turned from her pulling his hand from her grasp. Why did it affect her so, his actions pulling at her emotions? She refused to admit the truth, that he had tamed her in a way that left her docile in his presence, hanging on his every word and intently watching his every action. No, she wouldn't admit it. "Coming?" She glanced up to find him facing her once more and she nodded wordlessly at the same words she herself had spoken. She was coming. She followed him into the swarming crowds making sure to stay close to him. Crowds made her nervous and the thought of being lost in the center of the noise and commotion made her skin crawl. From stand to stand she shadowed him, often standing beside him to joke and laugh. It seemed time passed quickly and too soon his shopping list was at it's end Tressa had payed no attention to his purcheses other than the rope. It seemed oddly familiar to her, but she couldn't place it. Still, she couldn't quite shake the feeling that came at the sight of it. Where had she seen rope like that? It hadn't been in Syliras, she didn't pay the market anymind. This being her first actual journey into it. He made a point of gathering his collection of various things and Tressa found it strange that he took so long to do it. It was growing late, the sun's last rays had painted the sky in various shades of red. Pink hues highlighting the clouds into a breathtaking display. The air between them had seemed to grow tense, or was it her. She followed behind him as he showed her various things of no importance. Suddenly it hit her, the realization landing on her mind. She knew what was coming and she wasn't sure if she was ready to hear it. He turned to face her and she held her expression as nuetral as possible, not wanting to let him know her feelings, her pride taking hold. She could see the sadness in his face and it left her unable to think. The urge to comfort him, to make him smile filled her pushing every other thing from her thoughts, feelings and instinct. Gazing into his eyes she could see what she had searched for, the war raging in them. She had no idea where he was going, but she could see the decision he was making. “It has been a great day full of adventures and laughs. I can honestly say without a question of a doubt you have been the most wonderful person to me. I have never in my years met someone even remotely as captivating as you. But I fear that time has turned against me, and I must be on my way.” His words seemed sour in his mouth, forced even. She could hear it in his tone, but it did so much more to her. Slowly as he spoke a cold feeling slipped into where that warmth had been. It was her own fault, she was foolish. She had let his gentle ways and curious stares open her heart to him. “I now and always will consider you my friend Tressa, and I pray that our paths do meet again.” It wasn't anger that filled her, she wasn't mad. It was frustation, frustration at her own mistake, her stupidity. Lettering herself start to fall for someone she knew would leave. SHe knew he'd had no intention of staying in Syliras. She had no right to be upset with him, only herself. Her face couldn't remain blank any longer, her eyes held a cold, hurt stare and she bit her lip in her angst. She couldn't speak, the words wouldn't come to her. She didn't want to lash out at him, he didn't deserve her bitterness. She had, had fun and she'd never regret it. She could only accept what was happening and learn to hold her heart more securely. She'd never let it stray so willingly again. Unable to hold the emotional torment to herself, to bare the welling of pain pushing inside her, she let a single tear fight its way through her barrier and willed it to roll gently down her pale cheek. "We both knew this moment was coming, and things are as things are. Seperate paths may meet now and again, but they will always go their own wa..." Her voice quivered unsteadily as she spoke, revealing her pain in each wavering syllabal. Her words trailed off into silent uncertainty at his next action. He stepped towards her, his touch softly meeting her cheek. Tressa stiffened at his nearness, it brought with it feelings she'd never felt and fear. Never had another touched her this way and it left her trying to judge his next move unsuccessfully. Did she run, or did she accept this, did she trust his intentions? She chose to stand still, trying to relax with him so close to her only brought her tensing to a tremble in his arms. His eyes met hers in a direct connection, she couldn't look away. She didn't want to, but even if she had his hand held her head secure. His eyes held a softness, a look that stirred her feelings and made her heart beat quickly against her will. Her own were wide, filled with distress, bitterness lined with love and the remaints of her fear. She could hear his heartbeat, it thudded as swiftly as hers. He narrowed the gap between them slowly, her heart raced the noise of them mingling to become one quick paced sound. She trembled harder, not wanting to resist him, but not sure if she wanted to submit. She felt helpless her heart defying her mind in the ugliest of ways as she allowed him to tilt her head, lifting her chin tenderly. Her anxiety deepened, was he really going to? His hand brushed her face and she faltered at the sudden touch. Flinching slightly, barely recognizable. Seconds after her surprised retreat she found his lips pressed to hers. Her fear retreated and to her surprise she welcomed it. Her uncertainties soothed overtaken by the admition of her feelings for him. The warm feeling had returned to her. As quickly as it had come the embrace ended, only a disaterous mixture of emotions left behind. She was left breathless from the encounter. And her thoughts immediatly flew through her mind. How dare he, did his leaving alone not leave anough pain within her? No, now she'd remember his kiss to feed the hurt. Why was life like this, why did everyone leave? All she could manage to do was stare at him questioningly, fire in her eyes. Her heated gaze glued to his face as if to demand an answer, an apology, a cure for her hurt, something? He appeared as emotional as she felt. This, love, lust, it was horrible. It left her confused, helpless, hanging onto every second. She couldn't control herself, her emotions, anything. It was a position she hated, to feel like she was cornered. “Thank you again Tressa… for everything.” She said nothing to his words, she couldn't find the words to say. Only grab at her dress looking lost. She felt like a child being told she could no longer have her dearest possesion. “I really hope we meet again Tressa… I really do.” She knew that if he walked away she'd never see him again. It was a finality she couldn't handle and as he walked away she felt herself missing him. Each step he took left her more empty, a feeling like she could never smile again. Sure she barely knew him, she didn't know anything about him except for the fact that, the look in his eyes left her searching the, his presence left her smiling, his gentle way made her feel secure and she wanted to know him, it couldn't end like this. But, could she really ask to join him? Would it be right? Right or wrong she wanted to know what could be. She didn't want to spend the rest of her life wondering what it would of been like had she took that step. She'd made up her mind. Taking a step toward the direction she walked she gathered her strength. "Leon" She called hoping he could hear her, afraid to speak any louder. She paused, feeling stupid, she was delaying him and the gates would close soon. "Leon, I want to come too." The hurt she felt carried in her voice and it didn't cross her mind that she had told and not requested it from him. It was his path, she had no right intruding on it, but she couldn't fight the way she felt. She knew it would be a possibly, long, hard, dangerous journey, but she wouldn't slow him down and she could feed herself. If only he'd heard her...

[Leon]

Some times I forget to breathe when I’m around you. Sometimes I can’t help but to stare. There are moments I can’t stop wondering. But most of the time I’m not all there. I can’t fight this feeling. I can’t stop the flood. You control me without thinking, my face all flush You speak my name, and I melt in my place You open your lips, and I want a taste It takes all I am, to keep my cool. When I’m standing right next to you. You are flawless, you’re beautiful, there’s no mistake That you are the one for me. The one who will always be Holding my heart, in your palm of your hand. Lost in this moment never worrying about what tomorrow brings me Because I know you will be there, so it must be ok. It doesn’t get better than your lips pressed to mine. I feel like drifting away, on that cloud so far above. You lift me up that high. And I just wanted you to know. That I love you… Every step away from her drove him deeper into his sorrows. He could feel the distance growing as he made his way to the main gate. They sky was as welcome as any other site now that she was no longer beside him. Though its beauty could be shared by the world he could only think how nice it would be to be sharing it with her. Insides churning he battled with his decision to leave her behind. He knew it was the right thing to do, but it was not what his heart wanted. The road he was taking was littered with dangers he could not even start to count. He had a lot of people depending on him, even if they didn’t even know that they did.There comes a moment in every person’s life where they sit back and think about what could have been. Tonight as he would rest he knew for a fact he would be having that moment about her. He knew that leaving her now would be the end. There path would probably never cross again. That though alone filled his stomach with knots. He wanted to feel her again, to have her energetic energy flow into him. He was only steps away from her but already he felt a world apart. It was too late to go back and ask her to come with him; the heart break had already been done. He had not the strength to look into those eyes again to tell her that he was sorry. In the end it was pride that was pushing them apart. Pride and a mix of fear at not being able to protect her when something dangerous befell them. The only thing left to do was to find a way to make it another day and try to forget the unforgettable. " Leon " Her words left him bare, emotions bubbling up at the mere mention of his name. Spoken in that soft tone he was use to, she left him wanting more, wishing that he could hear the word endlessly. That angelic voice stopped him in his place. He had to give her the moment she deserved to say what ever she felt she needed to make peace with herself. He owed that much to her for what he had just put her though. He didn’t blame her for hating him. He wasn’t really sure what ever had her interested in him to begin with. He hoped that she would curse at him. Tell him his was wrong for leading her on, for kissing her or countless other acts he had committed throughout the day. He had expected as much for building her hopes up and the crashing them like a vase against the cobblestone. Turning around he gazed down the path seeing in amazement how far he really had gotten from her. He knew the gates threatened to close soon, but that was a risk he was willing to take for her. Knowing fully well that if they did he would be stuck here another night left to find room in another ill forsaken Inn but this time without the company of Tressa to make it go by faster. To his surprise she took a single step closer as if the little bit of space would have helped make her words louder, or perhaps she had just wanted to get closer to him. Regardless of the reason he listened with an open heart to hear what she had to say. " Leon , I want to come too." The words spun wildly in his head. She wanted to come with him? After everything he had just put her though. She had the strength the courage to do what he could not. A part of him told him to say yes and just let her come, but the path he was on was far too dangerous to risk her life as well as his own. Mouth open he tried to find the words to tell her how sorry he was that she couldn’t go with him. That he didn’t want her to be in danger on his behalf. But the heart wants what the heart wants, and with the all the voice he could muster he called out to her. “We don’t have much time then.” Turning back he faced the gates, the smile that had faded began to slowly find its way back on the contour of his lips. The hurt in his heart seemed to heal with the knowing that she would be there to keep him company. It was to be a long and dangerous road, but at least he wouldn’t have to do it alone. Glancing back he made sure she was coming before he started back to the gate. Somehow he had dodged an arrow to the heart twice. She was a rare girl, a precious treasure to have around, and to Leon she was more than anything he had ever dreamed about.

[Tressa]

Tressa felt ill. The thought that something so simle as a yes or no, could hold so much power over ones fate was enough to make her stomache churn. Somehow it seemed unfair, like somewhere in the workings of the universe someone had cheated at the game of existance. She held her breath waiting for a reply, a sign that he had even heard her call out to him. Each second that passed seemed like an eternity and her hope slipped away a little at a time. Then it happened, he came to a halt. A wide smile broke through her previous sullen face, he'd heard her. Her eyes widened as she watched him turn, was this good or bad? Her smile was beginning to fade, doubt entering her thoughts. Would he reject her and tell her to stay in Syliras. Had he done this intentionally, or did he not wish to be slowed down by her? Or would he say yes, would he accept her companionship? “We don’t have much time then.” She hadn't expected to hear those words from him, but they sent her heart rapidly beating once more. The rush of relief surged over her and reality brought her to attention. Duh, the gates are closing. She told herself. They didn't have much time the gates would be locked soon. She took one look back at the city before taking another step forward and running towards him. She didn't want to miss their exit spending another night in the city would be too hard after everything that had happened behind it's walls, the hurt, the desire. No, it would be better in a place they had not tread together. Sure, Syliras had been fun, but the city could never be her home. She needed freedom to be herself, she doubted the conformity behind these walls would ever accept her, or rather that she could ever conform to standards set by those that resided there. She had no doubt that she'd pass through those gates again in her lifetime, but for now she was starting a new journey, had she not finished her last? Damn these useless legs she thought as she reached his side, slowing her run to a walk meeting his pace and hoping it wasn't too late. The sun was nearly gone now, as soon as it faded from sight their exit would be blocked. Looking to him she smiled again, catching her breath "Thank you, for not leaving me behind." They were simple words, but they held so much in meaning. All of the feeling of being abandoned had been erased and her heartbreak faded quickly. As they neared the gates Tressa could see the guards getting up, they were checking once more for any approaching travelers and then they would lock up. The adrenaline rush of her eagerness filled her and she looked to him quickly before turning her head back to the guards. "Coming Leon?" She laughed, knowing how many times those words would be repeated. Breaking off into a run she closed the gap between hope and reality. Looking back only to see if he had joined her in her excitment.

[Leon]

Another day that passes, another heart to shine Dreams becoming realities, whilst you sleep at night Though the moments pure, and freedom you shall gain You shall never be able to break free, of this life of shame. Endlessly searching, committed to quest you hardly understand Your not a person, no longer a man. But the spark that is with you, that one you hold so high Will be your survival, through these troubled times. Just learn to trust, learn to let her in And all your problems will fall, beaten by you once again Foot steps, slow at first but quick to rise. The earth seemed to revolve around those unquestionable footsteps. Moving at a brisk pace was more of a hassle than he had ever expected. His movements undeterred by the sounds of the city, showed in full awareness his goal. He had postponed the task of leaving for far too long and those tactics had left him wondering how he was going to escape this wretched place. The soft pace of her footsteps beside his filled the gap that was missing. He had gotten so use to the way it felt when she was beside him, that when she was away he could not bare it. Loneliness was an old friend; he had been with him almost all through his life. Isolation was his way of doing things, never trusting those whom he did not know, looking out for himself. Today was a first in his travels, no longer was he allowing his old friend to accompany him. Tressa was to be filling that spot, a change he more than welcomed. Never before had he allowed himself to trust someone enough to let them follow. To open up and say that he actually needed someone around. Traveling on his own meant depending on certain skills and strengths he had acquired though out the years to survive. It was a big risk picking up another not knowing if they knew anything about the wilderness or if they had the skill to last long on the road. It was a risk but for her he would take on that risk. He wasn’t sure how she had breached the part of him he kept hidden. Nothing could have prepared him for the way she controlled his every action. It was like fate had meant for them to meet each other in the alley way. Something about her just made him feel that much more complete. His heart was fluttering wildly, the pleasure of her being around him was overwhelming his senses. It was long overdue for this, for someone to be with him, for someone to be a part of his life. The sun was already bidding its farewell to the world through another explosive display of color. He wanted to stop and stare at it in wonder but decided it best to do so on the outskirts of the city. “Thank you for not leaving me behind” Her words struck him as odd. She must have had plans to leave the town herself. The only reason he had not asked her to accompany him was for fear she had some task that she to must complete. It did not help that his quest was that of much pain and struggle. His voice soft held a strength he could only tap when she was around. Words spoken from the heart began to flow into air leaving him questioning why he was even responding. “ I never wanted to leave you, I just didn’t think you wanted to go with me…” His voice trailing off at her energetic display. “ Yeah you’re amazing.” He watched as she ran forward to the gates, his current task at hand. She looked back at him with those eyes… Those eyes that filled him with energy he could not explain. The come get me smile on her face was more than unfair. Her eagerness to leave was intense. “Coming Leon ?” No matter how many times he heard it, those words never got old. Of course he was coming there was no way else out the town. But how fast he was to be coming was on the plate of discussion. His pack weighted him down but still he took to a nice steady run trying his best to catch up to the girl of his dreams. A pair of guards and a door were the only thing standing in his way. Ahead of him he could see Tressa look back at him. She was teasing him without her even knowing it, or maybe she did know it and just trying to use it to her advantage. Regardless it got him to pick up his pace until they both came to a halt only moments before running over the not so well dressed guards. Offering a voice through his tired breaths he looked over the pair before him. It was apparent they had plans to lock up the door with the set of keys they were holding. Giving him a look of disapproval they looked questionably at the door. “ Was just about to lock her up, best get moving before we decide to lock it while you are still here.” Taking heed he walked over to entrance, just in time to hear the pair yell out an order to someone up above. “ Open the gate.!” And within moments the pathway opened up. He took no time in walking out the narrow slit, not even caring if it was open completely or not. Out stretching his arms he yelled to the heavens in an accomplished sort of way. “Freedom!” Moments after his words were yelled he heard the gate shut. The air was cleaner, untainted by the spoils of the city. It was to be a good night, a good night indeed. His attention was brought back to Tressa, she seemed to be giggling at him for something, his outburst was a little on the eccentric side, but that was nothing to laugh about. He brushed it off choosing to smile instead. He tried to keep eye contact with her but something didn’t feel quite right. He could feel the eyes of something else watching him. He spun around looking in the distance seeing nothing that could be blamed for the sudden spine tingling sensation. Nervous he turned back to her looking at him wondering if she was causing the hairs on his back to stand up, but he knew it wasn’t her. The sudden call of a bird struck Leon right in the heart. He knew what it was, a raven. Body turning slowly he turned to see a black hulking bird perched alone on a tree long since claimed by the hands of death. A pair of black eyes unblinking stared at his own. Leon was entranced by the bird, what it meant. He was being watched, yet here he was doing the watching. It called out to him, screaming out its warning for all ears to hear. Within moments it flew off into the sunset, leaving Leon feeling a little more insecure that he had ever hoped. “ Lets get moving, we got camp to set up before night takes all traces of light away.” And that was all he would offer to her about the events that had taken place. He would explain to her in time, what his task was but now he just had to find a suitable place to set up camp

[Tressa]

She stood patiently, still and quiet while the guards shot their sneering and suspicious looks. It reminded her of the day she’d first passed through them entering the city. The feeling that they thought they were superior, the fear of doing the slightest thing wrong, of appearing guilty of anything.. It was all the same now as it was then. “ Was just about to lock her up, best get moving before we decide to lock it while you are still here.” The snobby tone of the guard left her wishing for a clever come back. A retort to leave him dumbfounded as she passed by. Her thoughts however did not comply with her request for aide in humiliating the man. They were preoccupied. Lost in I can’t believes, what ifs and is this rights. A steady creaking, the result of massive weight on worn hinges split the air as the gates swung slowly open. Leon started first making his way through them before they had barely opened the width of him and she followed suit. She made sure to move quickly, matching his steps until they had cleared the gates. “Freedom!” The random cry of excitement that emerged his lips and rose far into the night caught her full attention. She made no sound, only looked on at him in way that said she was actually laughing very hard. The clicking of the doors being shut told her the city was closed for the night. Almost any other person would have found the approaching darkness outside the gates forbidding, but she welcomed it. The air seemed so much fresher, filled with the scent of the earth, of the stirring creatures in the distance, a burning fire somewhere near, but something else was on the breeze too. “Do you..” She let her words trail off seeing the look he gave her. Of course he didn’t smell it, he was human and it wasn’t a smell like food or such that he could detect. But his look told her he could feel it, he appeared bothered by whatever the thing was. The shriek of a bird nearby cracked the silence of the night and Tressa turned in the direction of it. Leon’s expression had taken an almost worried look, but she didn’t much notice. The ugly bird had her attention and her heartbeat picked up pace. It seemed to stare directly into his eyes, or was it her? Perched up in the dead tree it screeched again. It’s presence made her nervous, she swore she could feel Leon’s mood change and it left her unsure what to do. There was something that she didn’t know and she wasn’t fond of treading unstable ground. So, she ignored her need to chase it from its roost, to send his tension fleeting with it. Only seconds after she vowed to let it be the bird took flight of it’s own will, disappearing into the night. “ Lets get moving, we got camp to set up before night takes all traces of light away.” He seemed upset, the smallest of uncertainty in his tone sending her the signal. “Of course we do” She answered, emphasizing the ‘we‘ part as if to assure him she‘d help, still slightly shaken by the birds appearing act. Her attention was on the breeze now, scanning the area for any signs of disturbance, she wouldn‘t let herself be as surprised next time.. Her natural instinct had taken hold of her, no longer within the civil streets and pampered people. Predatory eyes made quick work of every detail. She was in her element now. It had seemed they’d walked a decent distance, or maybe the silence between them had made it seem so long. Either way daylight was scarce and right ahead of them was a suitable spot. The ground had already been cleared, most likely being a spot used often by the cities travelers, A ring of rocks lined with ash already told of how a cooking fire had burned there not long ago. But the previous camp had left, leaving it open for the next. She wasn’t sure if Leon had noticed it, if he had she hadn’t noticed and signs from him. “That seems to be an ok place” She voiced her find, pointing with one delicate finger to where she spoke of. She wasn’t sure if she was right about the doableness of it, she had never really set camp. One didn’t need to when nature already blessed them with the perfect sleeping arrangements. She didn’t see why it wouldn’t compensate them though, it was away from the road and the thickly intertwined branches of the surrounding trees offered almost a natural canopy. She was careful to keep her pace steady as she talked. She didn’t want to stray behind, though she was more than capable of protecting herself, if not more so than he she doubted he’d see it that way and she didn’t want to cause grief. It was much easier to keep up than it was to cause worry.

[Leon]

Oh memories, why must you haunt me Flee from me at once, just let me go Let my life be normal, as normal can be. Let this friend be spared from my task The weight on me is a burden I never asked for But you feel that I can handle the quest. I fear the demand is too much I fear that I will fail; letting the ones I love down And losing everything in the process But in the end we will see if you made the right choice After the all the dust has cleared. “Of course we do” her voice wasn’t enough this time to break him of the spell he was under. He was bewitched by his own thoughts and emotions. Walking in silence was both time consuming and irritating. The one thing that did however make him a little more relaxed was her way of scouting. She had the eyes of a predator that was for certain. He took note of the way she was surveying the land, she had the skill, but he figured it was all thanks to the animal side of her. Night fell faster than he had hoped, the last bits of light from the sun being replaced by the silver tint of a newly risen moon. The bird had left him in a state of isolation. As much as he wanted to pay attention to what he was doing, the bird held all his thoughts. “What does it mean? Why here? Why now?” Walking was just a movement that his feet did out of memory. Step by step, pace nothing more than normal. He moved perplexed by what had happened. He took notice of a spot that seemed to be fair enough for use. The ground was littered with the traces of tracks. People often found this spot and used it. That little alarm went off in his head and he immediately cast the spot to the way side. He was not to found of using campsites, he knew how easy it was to have travelers wander up upon them. Though it fit the billet for a perfect spot his heart told him it was best left as it was. “That seems to be an ok place.” He noticed that she had taken an eye to the spot as well. He was fairly impressed with the choice for a first time. Re-looking it over Leon began doubting himself and wondered if they should take the chance or keep searching. Feet full of lead he came to the conclusion that he would just break a rule of his and deal with it. Giving a small nod, he began emptying the contents of his bag upon the soft dirt. His bed roll was near the top and that was all he had really wanted out in the first place. Restoring the rest of his unneeded gear he set out to find a place away from the campsite that was within his sleeping requirements. Removing the unwanted rocks, twigs and underbrush was only one step in his things to do. A fire was not needed, it would only send notice of there presence, which was something he did not like. His hunger began to bubble up from the pits of his stomach in the form of a low growl. Though he was hungry he knew that he could hold off until morning. Unsure about her he turned to her for the first time able to speak to her. “Are you hungry? Because if you are I can cook you something, it won’t be hot but at least it will be a meal.” Leon ’s bed had enough room for the pair of them, but he doubted she would be willing to share that. He thought about her transforming again in the middle of the night and curling up next to him for warmth, it just seemed like a far better thought than the ones that were haunting him now. He was finding himself falling back under her spell forgetting about the bird entirely. She had to know what she was getting herself into. She had to know exactly what events had taken place in his life. She was to be traveling with him, to places he couldn’t ever ask anyone to follow. He was scared of losing her though, scared of the thought of doing it all alone. He just wanted the company of another, if they happened to be helpful that was a bonus. Leon lay back looking blankly at the canopy overhead. The moon was shinning a few strands of light through the top. It had already been a long day, he questioned to see what the night held for them both