Catalina decided to venture into town. If she was to be stuck in this place, she may as well make the best of the time she was given here. She would see if any of the people she had met last time were still around and meet some new folks.

The resolution made and kept in mind she made the hike into town and a few hours later she opened the door to the Red Dragon Inn and walked inside.

The place was bustling with people and creatures just as she had expected, Catalina thought as she headed for the bar.

?Hello. Cold cider, if you got it, please.? She requested when the bartender glanced over a moment after she had sat down, a rather handsome tender, she thought.

?Cold cider... right...? The man settled his glass down on the bar and moved to fill the order and then set a glass before Catalina. ?Um... that'll be like ten, yeah.?

Ten of what, she wondered, and just why he sounded so unsure about it. She?d not yet found a money changer either.
?Will those cover the charge?? She hoped he?d accept her Dragon?s Eye coins as she placed a couple of largish dragon stamped coins on the counter. The tender barely glanced at them, though, before he picked them up and slipped them into one of the many pockets upon that leather jacket he was wearing.

?Sure... enjoy now.? He lifted his glass from the bar and retook a lean.

"No kiss this time?" A woman asked the 'bartender', as she fooled with her glass.

?You need one of those aprons, if you plan to make a career of standing behind there.? Another woman called over.

?Thanks.? Catalina gave the handsome waiter a smile and then she picked up the glass, turning on the stool to see who she might recognize. None apparently, but that was not surprising.

?She paid with coin. I'll keep you on the kiss payment plan though.? She heard the tender explain what payment he had asked for originally to the first woman. His next sentence was obviously meant for the second woman that had addressed him. ?I only wear one when cooking, and I ain't cooking here.?

?Wow, I should have known of that payment plan sooner.? Catalina remarked to no one in particular before she lifted her glass. By the time she brought it down it was more than half empty.

?I wear one when I bake. And I still get flour everywhere.?

?Everywhere??

?Not there, you rogue.?

?Where? I didn't say anything...? The tender whistled innocently.

?Mmhmm, sure you didn't. But you were thinking it.? The woman wasn?t buying, neither was Catalina.

"Watch my purse, hombre?" The please was always implied. Then the first woman grabbed a bottle of tequila and left the bar with a giggle to greet someone else.

Catalina observed one or the other interaction within her view, and grinned to the woman that accused the tender of having thoughts.

?I'm always thinking. Not always bad things either.?

?Thinking can be dangerous.? The woman glanced up and exclaimed, ?Gods above and below,? just as someone landed on the floor with a loud ?thud? on the floor between her and the bar.

?Bloody bones.? .Catalina glanced to the knightly dressed body. It was obvious from his prostrate and unmoving form, as well as from the odd position of his neck and the blood trickling from the side of his mouth, that the red haired and bearded young man would not be getting back up.

?Drek... and I thought I could make an entrance...? The ?bartender? commented.

?The other cheek then perhaps? I'd not want you to be leaning all to one side and perhaps fall over on account of unevenness.? Catalina set her glass down again. Running a tab was not something she was willing to do.

?Hm... can't have that?? He leaned over, presenting the left cheek with a wink over at Ariana.

With a little chuckle Catalina leaned over to brush her lips against the presented cheek just often enough to even things out, perhaps whiling a little longer with the last of the series, counting the individual brushes.

?Five, six, seven, eight.? Catalina sat back, grinning back to his smile. ?Now, where to put the other two??

?Hmmm... are you looking for suggestions?? He lifted a brow at Catalina, but he was not smirking, no, definitely not smirking.

?I guess I am.?

?Mmhmm. He's busy with his wood crafting. Oi, wot muscles.? The woman with the basket answered a question posed to her and fanned herself. Something in what the woman said put a smirk on the ?bartender?s? lips.

?Well, I'll let you pick, then I've got to be off. Early work back home n' all.?

?In that case....? The man did look and smell rather pleasing, a combination she had not come across often. She leaned toward the 'bartender' again and gently brushed her lips against his.

His lips perked lightly into a smile, but he did not respond in any other way, not even when she lingered a bit longer with the last of those kisses.

?I'm Catey by the way.?

?Marek, nice ta' meetcha, Catey. Going to be about the city for a while?? He perked of a light growl and a smirk set to his features.

?So it appears.? She smiled. ?Marek, very nice, indeed.?

?Next time I'll have to charge you more for a drink.? He pushed up lightly from his lean over the bar, leaving his glass and offering up a wink to Catey and Ariana. ?If you two ladies will excuse me, I've a bit of rest to find before work calls when the sun hit's the sky.?

?Take care, Marek. I'll see about delivering Baklava for you.? The woman with the basket said.

?A good night to you, Marek and don't let the plot wings get you. I'll be around to find out what that increase might look like.? Catalina picked up her glass again. It would be rather nice if he could manage to keep alive for a while longer.

?Thanks? I rather like that.? Marek replied with a smile to the woman with the basket as he held up the purse for the woman who had left it with him before he gave a nod over at Catey with a smile. ?No doubt.?

After the purse was handed over Marek turned and moved out from behind the bar, and then headed for the back door, adjusting the leather jacket somewhat against his form. He gave a push to that door out and into the night he went.

Fishing

Catalina returned to the Red Dragon Inn the next evening, still in her leathers but all cleaned up - there was no need for wearing traveling dirt like make up in this town ? and headed straight for the bar. As she had hoped, the bartender she had met the previous evening was right there. He wasn?t duty, though, to judge by his lean against the bar and another, much more efficient bartender pouring drinks.

Marek patted himself down for a cigar, finding an already partly used one, gave a shrug and fished out a match to strike upon the bar's surface. It wasn?t the best looking cigar and used some but, it'd do for now. He took a puff and then dropped the match into a left drink on the bar.

?Rum'n coke?? He ordered when the bartender came over.

?Sure thing! Enjoy.? The bartender set a glass in front of Marek before he nodded to Catalina. ?Good evening! What might I get you??

Marek slid the glass in close and lifted for a testing sip as Catalina sat down at the bar with a nod to him and one to the bartender.

?Good evening. Cider if you got it... uhm, wait, what's the method of payment tonight?? Catalina thought to ask with a wink to the smirking Marek before she looked to the bartender again.

?Cider is available, and for that, lets just call it a 'designated driver drink' eh?? The bartender chuckled and turned to fill a glass with cider, then took it Catalina. ?There you go - enjoy!?

?Driver?? Another word she knew no meaning to, but with a glance to the bartender she decided that is was a harmless word. ?Thanks.?

?On the house.? He promptly explained.

?To your health then.? Catalina lifted up the glass before she took a drink and then set the glass down again, turning to Marek. ?Enjoying an evening off??

?Somewhat, worked earlier you could say.? He took another puff from the cigar as eyes slid down bar Catalina's way. ?Yourself??

?Still getting re-acquainted with this town.?

?Depending on the hour, it's not so bad.?

?I must be doing my snooping around at all the wrong hours then,? she grinned, ?Except, perhaps for one of those hours last night.

?Watch out where you snoop, around this city. It's not too different from where I come from. You wouldn't want t o end up on a slab.? Marek replied with a smirk to Catalina before he looked over to the man sitting further down the bar. The man shot back a curious look and a half smile pricked the corner of his mouth.

Catalina nodded to the man before she turned back to Marek, ?So far so good and did I say snooping? I may have meant something else.?

?You did. No worries though.? Marek winked, taking another puff or two from the cigar, and then cast a nod cast over to the owner of the purse he had watched the previous evening before he turned an eye at Catalina again.

?There's bigger fish to worry about.? She took another drink from her glass.

?I've heard that one before.?

The man down the bar studied his reflection in the mirror behind the bar. Then he put down his bottle and looked over to Marek and Catalina once again.

?No doubt. How big or tiny a fish are you??

?How big a fish? What kinda' bait ya using?? He interrupted his study of a woman?s rear with a slightly arched brow to Catalina and then perked a smirk as he lifted his cigar for another puff.

?Depends....? Catalina gave a little shrug and a sideway glance, and brought up the note she had happened across. At the time she had only read the note because of the name with it. But reading it had sparked an idea. ?? got something for plotwings or stiffs??

?Well, sounds like at least you know what you're doing maybe. If I ever have the hanker'n to go fishing, I'll drop you a line.... no pun intended there.? Marek chuckled as he lowered the cigar from his lips and nodded over at Catalina.

?I must have been mistaken, thought I heard something about special arms.? What did he think wings and stiffs were? ?A line? With bait on it??

?Hmm... not a bad tush.? Marek said idly to himself, nodding after a passing woman, before he once again turned to Catalina.

?Special arms? Well, they aren't tard'ish if that's what you're inquiring.? Politically correct he was not, perking a smile her way.

?Have ta' get to know me more though before we'll talk about them maybe. Far as a line and bait... popcorn. Works everytime.? He winked and lifted his glass for a swallow.

?Could be worth a try.? Catalina grinned, though why he?d need for her to know him better before he was willing to do business with her was puzzling.

?I'll have to purchase some popcorn.? He winked and took another swallow from his glass.

?I wonder...? Was he wanting to bait her or the owner of the rear he admired a moment ago? Instead she asked, ?? is that anything like poprocks??

Marek quirked a brow at curious word and then smirked again.

?Naw...? His eyes shifted over at a snort with an arched brow and a shake of his head and then settled the cigar to his lips.

?T'would be for personal use, protection, not a large scale.? If he had meant to imply baiting a big order, she had better disabuse him of that notion right away.

Marek lifted another curious brow over at Catalina, lips parting to allow the escape of smoke, lowering the cigar. That look sparked an idea and she winked to Marek before she turned to the bartender. Discussing business with fewer ears to overhear would likely be better.

?May I have some 'popcorn', please?? She requested as soon as she had the bartender?s attention and grinned when she heard Marek?s chuckle as the bartender left to get the requested item.

The bar tender returned promptly and set a bowl in front of her. ?There you go!?

?Thank you very much.? Catalina nodded to the bartender before she took a closer look at this 'popcorn'. It didn?t appear particularly exciting to her or even appealing. ?So that's bait.?

?Nice choice...? Marek remarked idly, taking a swallow from his glass with a glance of eyes over to the two women standing down the bar, before he turned his gaze back to Catalina.

?Am I supposed to leave a trail?? Catalina picked up the bowl and her glass as she slipped off the barstool.

?Depends what you're fishing for, earlier you were talking about lines.? Marek chuckled as he lowered his glass.

?You mentioned a need to fish for information. That porch looks more suited for such.? Catalina wasn?t fishing for lines and she wondered how he arrived at such a conclusion? unless ?lines? was another word that had a different meaning here.

?I was talking about you.? He smirked and winked. ?But I've got a little time.?

?I'd like some of that too. So, the bait'll be on the porch.? She winked, leaving it up to him to figure out if she meant time or information. Bowl and glass in hand she headed for the porch.

Meeting Rory O'Corr

Catalina had spend a couple of days at Val?s ranch. There was nothing quite like spending a few days roaming and occassionally lending a hand to the workers to put everything into perspective. But that kind of activity was not nearly exciting enough to suit her. She was used to be constantly on alert and by the third day on the ranch she was thoroughly bored. Hoping that the town might provide some excitement, she got cleaned up, exchanged her leathers for a gypsy skirt and blouse and headed out.

She spotted Rena right away when she entered the Inn a couple hours later and headed over to her.

?Good evening, Rena.? As always she had a smile for her, not caring if it was politically wise to be friends with king?s ex-girl friend or not. ?How are you tonight??

?I'm good. Yourself?? Rena replied with a welcoming smile.

?Much better now.? Catalina grinned back and then gave a pointed sweeping glance over the patrons present. There wasn?t a single person around wearing armor or carrying a blade, much unlike the inns at home that were either empty when she arrived or stuffed with warriors fresh from the field. ?All this eye candy...?

?Excuse me a minute, Catey.? Rena took her mug and wandered off. Catalina?s eyes followed to see who Rena may have spotted. When she saw the man that Rena greeted a moment later and the way the man looked at Rena, she knew that waiting for Rena to return would be pointless and she headed for the bar.

A tiger cub was there, drawing the attention of surprisingly few patrons. When the cub wriggled a paw at her Catalina sent a smile its way as she sat down on a free stool, remembering it hunting Ariana?s foot a few days ago. The woman standing behind the bar appeared annoyed and inattentive, and unlikely to ask for drink orders anytime soon, though. The rather handsome cowboy sitting next to her sure wasn?t getting a response from the woman behind the bar. If she wanted something to drink, she?d have to get it herself, she decided, and slid back off the stool to walk through the break behind the bar and directly to the cooler she knew to house the cooled cider.

She was just about to pour cider into the glass she had found when the handsome cowboy turned his baby blue eyes on her.

"'Scuhse Mihss! Aenaehy chahnce y't'ihnk y'moigh' paehr ah fehllah ah drihnk?? He sounded all sorts of hopeful.

?Sure, want cidar or something else? I think I saw some ale bottles over there.? She smiled to the cowboy. Good looking, a sexy voice, and the most charming accent ? she?d love to get to know this one.

?W'ihskaehy, m'daehr.? He replied with a wide smile and a lightning-fast wink.

?Right, whatever was I thinking?? Catalina grinned, further pleased that he?d not even be reeking of ale.

?W'a'ae'er ihs claouhsehs', jehs' a glahss wi' maehybeh sohme oihce an' jehs' t'bah'aehle nehcks t'ih'.? He paused for a chuckle and a little shrug and to send another little wink her way. ?Och, taehke buh' whone toihme t'laehrn t'drihnkihn' 'ahbih's ov a'A'Caehr.?

Catalina found glass and bottle claiming it was whisky and a moment later set both glasses, his whiskey and her cider, on the counter.

?There you go, Sweety.? She re-corked the bottles. ?Oice? I wish I knew where that was. The cider would be better with some ice, too.?

?Et ihn t'oihcebahcks!? He snickered at her question and then gave her a warm smile.

?Might you be able to point me in the right direction?? Ice bucket, of course, she should have thought of that.

?Y'knaouhw, a'tahp'ah t'frihdge.? He nodded and took up his glass and gazed at it appreciatively. ?Och, t'ahnkeh muhch, gaehrgeouhs. Och! Oi kihn daou y'whone beh'aehr. 'Ll shaouhw y'!?

?Ten should do it.? She took a page from Marek?s book, the not-a-tender who had charged her similarly, with a wink to the cowboy.

?Tehn w'a', daehrlihn'?? He plucked himself up off of the barstool and made a quick survey around the bar, ducking under the pass through to the other side. Spry in his step, bootheels clicking softly, he came up alongside of her, freshwater blue eyes flitting here and there in a mostly chaste appraisal.

?We're in luck.? Catalina had spotted what what might be an ice bucket and lifted the lid to check, and then reached out some ice cubes to carefully squeeze into the rather full glasses. ?Oh, kisses, of course.?

?Och. Wihsh Oi couhl' paehy f'i' ahll loihke tha'.? Well, he was rather close, now. Black eyebrows waggled at her. ?Y'wahn saee w'aehre tha' bahcks ihs, er y'wahn' smaoouhch i' up ihn frohnn'ah ae'eraehywhone??

?Well, little ones perhaps? Not that I end up owing you change.? She turned toward him with a grin and a wink.

?Och, y'kihn aouhwe mae.? He came closer and put a firm day-laborer's hand at the small of her back. The pressure was light, a question.

?Somehow I think that might not be so bad after all.? She chuckled melodiously. He came closer and her breath caught.

?Aeouhnlaehy ihf'n y'pluhg yer naouhse.? He said with a light snicker and he winked, quick as you like.

?No need.? She reather liked the fragrance of his cologne, citrusy lemon with a slight after-scent of lime, a tiny hint of fresh talcum, a bit of lemongrass, she decided as she answered the question of his hand and took the half a step still separating them, tilting her face up and winking back.

?'Ow're y'faeehlihn' 'bout nuhm'aehr whone?? He tilted his head part way toward hers?.

?Number one?? She brought up a hand to rest on his shoulder. Then she grinned, ?Oh, yer counting them? I'll tell you once I have it.?

?Ohaye. Y'aeihn' t'ihnk Oi wahs gaouihn' geh' 'ehm all a' whonce, dihdjah? Wehll, 'M caouhntin' 'tihll Oi laouhse trahck.?

?I'll try keeping count too then.? She winked up.

?Y'aeihn' waehrraehy ahbaouh' i'.? With a sly grin he pressed a bit harder into the small of her back, even dropping down to the beginning rise of her bum. They didn't call him the Rogue for nothing. And in he went, plump, full lips pressing into her own, the smallest hint of tongue but he didn?t push. The tease, that was what kept them coming, he knew.

Catalina gave into the pressure of his hand as his lips meet hers, keeping her lips soft and yielding, surrendering herself completely into his control. After the tiniest lick of her lips he pulled back a bit, the hand still on the top of her bum, resting gently. A cat-that-ate-the-canary grin on his lips his other arm snaked out to the bar to grab his drink, swirling it a bit before he had a long swallow, killing the glass.

?That was.... a good start. I'm starting to like this town.? She grinned back and reached for the cider glass to take a drink from it.

Rory cackled, the usual O'Corr raucous cackle, it had no boundaries, it knew no ends. It was decidedly not refined, and Catalina loved it instantly. It was contagious, too. Her laughter was a bit more on the melodious side, though. He shook his head and readjusted the cowboy hat. The tight, stained curls on either end, the criss-cross straw thatch of this particular design, claimed him to be backwoods, high-plains and plateau-settlement. One could almost see him readjusting himself on a horse. He shifted from one leg to the next.

?I' gah' ih's...pahs'ihtaehves.? He smirked.

?That you did.? Catalina grinned back, wishing she?d had allowed him to show her where the back was. He?d done far more than just pass, though, he aced.

He kept both babyblues on her as he leaned over a bit to pick up the bottle of Whiskey and poured himself another four fingers.

?What do you want to do with the other nine?? No way was she looking anywhere else while those baby blues where right there looking at her like that and his arm remained around her.

?Och. Plaehy i' boihy aeahr.? His eyes widened a bit, like it hadn't occurred to him yet. A stutter-stop and he shot an index finger out at her. ?T'aouhgh' Oi taehld y'nae t'caouhn'!?

?What makes you think I'd let you get away with only a partial payment?? She should probably leave one unpaid for, though, for all the obvious reasons.

?Taeahse.? He accused with the same raucous cackle as earler. Then he shook his head and turned on a million-watt smile.He had a sip of whiskey.

?Not so!? Her hand promptly moved from his shoulder to the nape of his neck to pull his head to hers to get the second installment, soft lips pressing lightly.

Oh, flirting hour was over, that had been the first kiss. He split her lips gently at first, but still a soft push with his own tongue, pressing them apart bit by bit, trying to tempt her own tongue into it. Though no tempting on his part was needed, as he found out almost instantly. His hand on her back slipped lower, full-on to butt country, and gave it a light, flirtatious squeeze. A soft bite at her bottom lip was returned a moment later. She accepted all his invitations and issued a few of her own. The glass left on the bartop with a light "thud." The hand free now, snaked up into the back of her hair, cupping the back of her head, even as her free hand came up to rest against his chest. With a small snicker he pulled away slowly. His hand came out of her hair, but the other remained full on her butt, giving it another squeeze.

?Och, Oi t'ihnk y'waehrt' kaeehpihn' 'raouhn' 'aehre.? His words drew a soft chuckle. Then just smiled up into his baby blue eyes. Her face flushed, the slightly swollon lips, out of breath, she looked throroughly kissed.

?I might be persuaded to be staying around.? She gave a chuckle at his words and. Who was she kidding, she was already persuaded.

?Tha' aeihn' gon' bae t'waehrs' t'ihn' ihn t'waehrl'. He grinned and then finished the whiskey in his glass and poured another immediately.

?Far from it.? She reached for her glass and drained it in a few swallows before she returned the glass back to the counter and her hand back to that shoulder.

Rory smirked and had another drink along with a quick flit around the inn, seeing who was there. He leaned in close to the woman in his arm and gave her a quick nip on the neck.

?Yer oit'aehr staehyihn' 'aehre w'oihle Oi gaou saehy 'ehllaouh t'an aouhl' friehn' er y'cohmin' wih'.

Boihy t'waehy tha' d'nnaough caouhn'.? He nodded.

?Good evening.? Catalina called over to Shylah. She hadn't noticed her until the handsome cowboy had glanced over that way.

?Greetings!? Shylah promptly returned.

?I'm Catey.? She grinned to the man still holding her, of course she was coming with. ?That sounds like a good enough reason for staying Something tells me you can do something to keep me from getting bored to death.?

?Raouhraehy Ah'Caehrr.? He cleared his throat and repeated without the coloring of the brogue, ?Rory O'Corr.?

?It's apleasure, definitely a pleasure, Rory.? So he wanted to make sure she really knew his name, she noted with a pleased smile. Then she caught the thin smile Rory sent over to Shylah. ?Since you've given your full name... Catalina Mandoccy. That was just two by the way.?

Rory gave a snort and released all sorts of holds on her then, and meandered his way over to Shy, a grin on his lips and a happy bounce in his step.

?Shoihylah!?

?Rory.? Pearly whites and dimples appeared on Shylah?s face.

Catalina took a minute to refill her glass before she followed Rory to greet Shylah properly.

?Shoihy.? Rory had a wide smile.

?Roar.? Shylah snickered.

?Ae'enihn'!? Rory greeted Shylah?s company with a warm grin and a nod before he snorted at Shylah. ?Aeihn' saeehn y'ihn mohn's!?

?Have you two met before this natt?? Shylah?s gaze moved between Valdor and O'Corr after Valdor returned the greeting.

?Let me try this again. A good evening to you. It's nice to see you again.? Catalina offered a friendly smile to Shylah and her company when she arrived at their table.

?Na your godt luck has run out, Rory.? Shylah chortled some more. ?Godt e'ening, Catalina. Rory and Catalina, this be Konnar Valdor ... Konnar, Rory and Catalina.?

Connar nodded to Catalina before he answered Shylah, ?Rory and his reputation are a regular fixture around here...about as hard to miss as the front door.?

Do I know you?

Done with practice for the tournament she had been invited to, and having won a second brawl, decided that a little celebrating was in order. She had brought a change of clothes with her and the Outback offered showers. A little while later, her hair still damp and the leathers exchanged for a gypsy skirt and blouse, she headed for the Inn.

?Can I get cha somethin?? A pretty bartendress asked her almost as soon as she sat down at the bar.

?You most certainly may.? Catalina grinned as a thought occurred to her just then. Celebrating called for something more than cider. She pulled a few coins from the pouch at her side and slid them onto the counter. ?I'd like a glass of O'Corr on ice, please.?

?That I can do.? With a soft smile the woman went to fill the order. Catalina watched so that the next time she came in and didn't find a tender she'd know where everything was to be found. Another moment later Catalina had a glass of whiskey on ice in front of her.

?Thank you.? Catalina picked up the glass and, taking a sip swung around on the stool, to see who else might be here this evening.

And as if wishing for it had done the trick, there HE was, walking toward her, looking even better than she remembered him to. Just looking at him made her heart beat faster and put an appreciative smile on her lips. That too tight black T-shirt he was wearing left little doubt of what was underneath the material, the recent hair cut looked great on him and he looked all in all well rested. Catalina was so caught up in studying Rory?s handsome figure she nearly missed Rena who had come in just behind Rory. But it was just a near miss and Catalina quickly raised her free hand to wave to the both of them.

Rory did not seem to have seen her, though. Rubbing a hand over his head, he shook it once and with a scowl headed for the far corner of the bar.

?Good evening, Rory.? Catalina greeted as he passed by with a slight shrug to herself. Maybe he had been way too drunk too remember anything after all. And if he thought her that forgettable, well, more than one man lived in this town.

Rory turned his head as he kept going, almost lurching it right off of his body as he realized someone was actually talking to him. The boots made a soft little ?skrt?.

?Oi!? He squinted, looking this way and that. He hadn't been paying attention at all, and didn't realize who was talking to him. Sometimes the idjit had just the worst tunnel-vision.

?I meant you all right, handsome.? His expression struck her as comical and she couldn?t help but chuckle.

Rory gave another squint, though this was one light-hearted. He studied Catey.

?Hmm...nup. Aeihn' t'ihnk Oi knaouhw y'... ? He gave a racetrack-paced wink and he shook his head too-eager. A dazzling smile and he ambled on down to the first open set of stools. Yes, he played hot and cold. Yes, he played as many games as his pretty little face and Adonis-like body would let him get away with.

?Right. I'd have thought you'd remember sleeping on the floor at least.? Catalina took a drink from her glass. She'd certainly not remind him of anything else.

She wasn't playing along right. Maybe she was dumber than he'd remembered? No, probably he wasn't doing a good job of it. He flagged down whoever was behind the bar.

?Oi, scuhse mihss!? A happy-go-lucky smile and he curled an index finger his way, giving the female tender a wink.

?Perhaps you're just trying to weasel out of a payment that's still owed?? Catalina turned to Rory again with a mild grin, a curse on the man for his looks and manners and on her self for being so susceptible to his charm.

Rory cleared his throat; he didn't want the Tongue getting in the way of what would surely be a good move, and pretended not to have heard Catey.

?Kin y'please give tha lovely lady...? He spoke quietly and leaned toward the female tender and discretely pointed at Catalina, making sure the tender saw him, ?two'a whatever she'd like an' let her know it's from tha most gallant an' handsome man she ever known?? He nodded. ?Please bae sure ta say it like thet. Ain't use m'name. Jes'.. ?tha most gallant an' handsome man she ever known.? There a big ol' tip innit fer ya.? He nodded again with a wide smile.

?Sure thang, babes.? The bartendress snickered to Rory.

Catalina quickly took another sip from her glass to kill that grin she found difficult to hide. It wouldn't do at all to let on she had heard any of that.

?T'ankeh, daehrlihn'.? Now, he had to just wait for the accolades to roll in. He should've ordered for himself, duh. He rocketed up out of the stool and groped around over the other side of the bar. It was a practiced reach, with his feet up in the air over his stool, cantilevering his body just right and his tongue tucking out into one corner of his mouth, feeling around until he snagged a bottle of Whiskey that Gav always left just....oh there!. He was like a kid on Christmas morning, eyes wide and brilliant, the lake turning over from winter to spring, churning light blue. He flumped back onto the stool and hungrily eyed his prize.

The bartendress turned, getting down two more glasses and pouring the drinks into them. She set them in front of Catalina.

?From 'im, luv.? She tilted her head Rory?s way.

?Gahddahmn'Vestihllgah'ih'.? Rory whispered very quietly with a self-congratulatory smile. Then the smile slipped a little when the tendress didn?t say it right.

?That's not what you were supposed to say.? Catalina whispered to the woman with a wink.

?From the most gallant an' handsome men ya ever did meet.? The tendress said after she cleared her throat.

?Hmm, the most handsome, that would be no problem... but the most gallant?? Catalina?s gaze
slid down the bar to Rory and than back to the tendress. Acting like he didn?t know wasn?t exactly gallant. ?I'd know one who'd fit the bill on both counts, but it's not particularly gallant to skip out on a bill is it??

?Pfffft, I do it all the time.? The woman snickered to Catalina.

?You say that like paying up was an unpleasant chore.? Catalina chuckled and then exchanged the half empty glass for one of the full ones and raised it part way with a wink down to Rory before she took a sip. ?To your health, most handsome and gallant.?

?'Ve y'naehaehr 'aehrd t'auhld mahcksihm cahncaehrnihn' Ghypou's an' t'aeihr clehvaehr, naehr uhncahnnaehy waehys'ah nahvihgae'ihn' t'foihne prihn'ah' buihsihnehss daehls?? He leaned back in his stool, waggling the bottle at Catey and having a first swallow. Well, the first swallow in this bar.

?You may have to explain those to me.? Catalina grinned to Rory.

?T'aehy're juhs' loike t'aehy saouhn'.? Rory grinned and had another sip, bobbing and weaving back and forth on the stool idly, to pass the time, you see. Catalina took another drink from her glass, too, before she looked over to Rory again.

?I've been told to be aware of gypsies because they take what they want rather than deal fairly. And if I remember correctly, there was not so much taking involved.? She said the last with a teasing little wink.

?Tha's quoi'e treue. Wae taehke w'a' wae wahn'. Wae aeihn' gihve uhnlehss wae 'ave tae er wahn' tae. Buh' tha' aeihn' maeahn wae taehke i' ahll roigh' ahwaehy. Ahs t'saehyihn' gaouehs...t'aehre's maehre'n whone waehy t'skihn'ah cah'.? He had a winning, beatific smile for Catey. He gave a little jerk of his head then, teasing, daring her to come over and tempt the Gypsy Fates.

Who was she to resist such a fine dare? Two half glasses made a full one, and she picked that up along with the other full one, slid off her stool and walked over, reaching just past Rory to set one of those glasses onto the counter.

?There might be something to that saying.?

?An' w'a' saehyihn' ihs tha'??

?That there might be more than one way to skin a cat.? She grinned to Rory, standing maybe a tad too close.

Rory chuckled, had another swallow and looked her over, quick and with an over-exaggerated ?ooh la la!? look in his eyes. That's how he usually got away with it, over the top and cheeky, just an incorrigible scamp!

?Like what you see?? She squeezed to get to that stool next to him and sat down and then took another sip from the glass in her hand, glancing at him over the rim.

?Ohaye, aye, aye.? A thin, momentarily-dangerous grin instantaneously broke into a boyish, chipped smile. He nodded furiously and cackled to himself a little and had another drink.

?I am rather enjoying the view from over here, too.? Catalina grinned wide; her very blue eyes were still upon him when she lowered her glass again.

Rory turned in his stool, looking around the Inn, head bobbing and weaving, Cassius Clay-ing here and there, he turned back to her.

?W'oihy w'a's t'aehre t'laoouhk a'?!? Cheeky that was the word for it.

?A handsome cowboy who seems to have lost his hat, for one.? Then she took a sweeping look around. ?And a bit of other eye candy here and there to dot the landscape.?

?T'aehy shuhre dou...? He nodded with another look around.

?How do you feel about popcorn?? Catalina asked with a mysterious grin when she turned to Rory again.

?'Ve aeihn' lahs' i'. Oi aeihn' sohme duhmb 'aehysaeehd. Oi douhnnah ahlwaehys waeahr ah caehybaehy.... 'a'.? He almost had a slip into something that was dark and treacherous and he didn't want to go there. He backpedaled furiously in his head and thankfully had the popcorn to fall back on. ?'M nae ah fahn'ah pahpcaehrn. I's voihle, flaehvaehrlehss stuhff.?

?Mhm, no need to try that then, the popcorn bait, I mean. I didn't intend any insult either, and I certainly don't think of you as dumb, I'd hardly be sitting here if I did, would I?? Catalina wondered what exactly she had said to procure that particular expression on his mien.

?Moigh' bae...tae 'ave ah lahff.? He shrugged. Mercurial, there was another good word to describe him.

She gave her head a little shake and took another drink from the glass closer to empty now. Then, with a pointed look toward the whiskey on ice in those two glasses, she mused, grinning.

?Perhaps I could have ordered them on fire or at least warmed up.?

?Och, buh' t'aehy waehrm ihn yer tuhmmaehy, douhn' t'aehy?? Rory was never one to shy from flirtation, and he proved it all over again, placing a steady, warm hand over her stomach, pressing the flowing blouse tight in-between their skin, letting it set there for a glittering, crackling moment. One of his brows went up for just an instant.

?Ah yes, this one is sure putting warmth in my tummy.? That quick touch did more in that regard though then the whiskey. She wasn?t looking at the glasses anymore but at Rory, a grin again played around her lips.

?The not so liquid form seems to do an even better job.? She added with a little wink. And no, she didn't shy away from the hand or push it away. She gave a quick flick of the tip of her tongue over her smiling lips, her eyes still on Rory.

?Say, Rory? I've been invited to participate in a tournament. I expect to do rather miserable at it, but might you like to come watch? Maybe kiss a few bruises away after??

?W'a' koihn'ah taehrnahmehn'?? He took a swallow from the bottle, and he squinted a little in thought.

?A fist fighting tag team tournament. For some totally unexplainable reason the current top dog there thinks I've some talent.? Her smile was inviting.

?Aye, 'Ll cohme an' wahtch.? Rory smirked. ?Leh' mae knaouhw w'ehn i' ihs an' 'Ll troiy t'bae t'aehre ihf'n Oi kihn.?

?Really?? Her smile widened, having been half ready to hear him decline. And just as quickly she was off her stool again, took a step, and wrapped her arms around him, chuckling and winking. ?Thank you. I'll be sure to let you know, will a note to your room here work? A few of those yummy hot kisses after will certainly be worth a few hits.?

?Aye. Laeahve ah naouh'e wih' Mahllaehy? He snorted and pointed at Molly the Barmaid, perpetual girlfriend of one of the youngest three O'Corrs. It changed seemingly weekly. ?an' shae'll geh' i' t'mae.?

?I'll be sure to do that.? Catalina nodded over to the indicated woman and then was beaming that excited smile of hers at Rory again.

?'M gaouin' t'gaou slaeehp ihn m'aouhwn behd, naouw. Ihf'n y'wahn...y'knaouhw...? He yawned and then grinned as he gave Catey a poke in the ribs and stood, snatching up the bottle of whiskey. ?Wehll, t'daoouhr's oupehn.?

?I think I'll take you up on that.? She winked and grabbed the one glass that was still full to take along. ?I got something to collect.?

?Ohihs'tha'saou?? He actually hadn't expected that to work...but...he did like sleeping with hot chicks... A grin. He started meandering for the stairs. Games, how he loved to play them.

Catalina turned her head to see where the greeting came from as she moved to the stairs, just in time to see Seamus Conner wave to her. She waved back before she headed up the stairs.

The inn was much quieter and friendlier than the ball, Catalina thought as she sat at the bar there, enjoying a glass of cold cider. The bar tender was efficient and he had the flower girl bring a rose to every female present. She received a white one. But Rory, to one person she had hoped to see, was not there. It wasn?t until her glass was empty and she thought about asking for a refill when she realized that she had left the Dragon Eye?s coins in the ball room. The chance that they were still there was slim, but she should at least go and have a look.

So she donned the feathered mask again, picked up the rose and went back to the ball room. She headed straight for the bar and once there searched the counter where she had been sitting earlier for the left behind coins. To her surprise she found them still there. Perhaps they had not been recognized as what they were and been thought to be merely part of a costume, she pondered as she picked them up and returned them to that too small pouch.

She found another glass of champagne, and then wandered slowly among the other guests, wearing a friendly smile below that feathered red mask. A few people arrived after she had left and she took note of their costumes. The matador now on the dance floor appeared particularly striking, though more for his moves than for the costume. A bandit was talking with the medusa now, and an angel was escorted to the dance floor by someone in a costume that may represent the sun even as a pirate and his lady slipped past a genie.

Catalina halted her step to take a sip from her glass and then watched the dancers for a while. That matador really knew what he was doing. The sun appeared to take his leave from the angel in the middle of the dance. Then a female officer was making a spectacle and briefly attracted Catalina?s gaze away from the dancers.

?So that was your trinket, left behind, then, yes?? Someone asked behind her the very moment she moved forward.

?A trinket, yes.? Catalina turned around to see who had spoken. The sun was just ordering something to drink from the bar tender. There was no one else at the bar currently. The angel he had been dancing with was now seated at a table; her facial expression appeared rather uncharitable for her costume.

?No matter how small, sometimes they are the most important.? The sun gave a soft turn of the thick titanium band on his right middle finger, almost a conceit of his own about trinkets.

The mention of a trinket along with the man leaving his dance partner after only half a dance had made her curious. She retraced her steps and approached the bar with a glance to the ring being toyed with. The sun twirled all the fingers of that hand casually, and the smile, almost all that was visible beneath the three-quarters mask, was wide as he saw his drink come to him from the barkeep.

?Oh, but you are too kind, good sir.? He put a few clinkity coins on the bar top as a tip, and he sipped from the wider-mouth rocks glass. It was easier to drink from this with the mask. He wasn't sure what the barkeep had made.

?You mentioned a trinket?? Catalina smiled

?Yes, I saw one lying on the bar and I did not see its owner. I feared someone had lost something very valuable to them.?

?And you decided not to pick it up?? Catalina took the seat next to the man, crossing her legs at the knee under that oh-so-red gown, the slits giving a tantalizing glimpse of smooth skin over well toned legs.

?I did not think it my place. I can only imagine the fear, the panic, of coming back to search for something and not finding it in the place you last left it.?

?I was happy to find it just where I had left it.? Very blue eyes twinkle from behind her mask. So he had been watching when she had come in. Not too many people in town had seen her pull out the Dragon?s Eye coins, and she wondered if she perhaps had been recognized by them or if the sun was merely interested in finding out that was scatter brained enough to leave them behind in the first place.

?That was my hope.? The mask would leave no room for interpretation of his motives, if he had looked at her legs, so he had to refrain. Instead he matched her blue eyes with his own, shining out from behind the golden mask, they matched the baby blue vest. He was the picture of uppity ball atmosphere.

?I am glad it was you then who saw the trinket and not a gypsy or vagabond, for then surly it would have been lost to me.? She winked from behind that mask, wondering if he could catch that wink, and chuckled softly. The color of his eyes reminded her of Rory. But that couldn?t be, could it? Rory spoke in a broad brogue.

?I would be more than a little disgusted to know that anyone like that was let into a ball like this... ? He looked around as if to make sure no vagabonds or gypsies had been allowed in. Then he turned back to Catalina, smiling a wide grin, the barely-noticeable dimples pressed into the corners of his cheeks, the last known territory before it disappeared under the golden mask.

?With all the masks and costumes, one could have slipped in.? Catalina chuckled. She knew those dimples; they made her smile turn so much warmer. ?Say, would you care to abandon your drink for a just long enough to enjoy a turn around the dance floor?

?I think that sounds like a wonderful idea.?

?Thank you.? She smiled wide and offered her hand. If that was indeed Rory, abandoning his drink for the duration of a dance was a significant thing.

?You're quite welcome.? He stood and took her hand.

?Lead the way, handsome.? She gave him a grin, her fingers curling around the hand - and did that hand seem ever so familiar. Catalina studied the man carefully as she slipped off the stool, leaving the white rose behind.

And he was a good lead. They danced a slow-ish waltz number, one hand holding hers, the other pressed into the small of her back, just above the curve in the red fabric over the top of her bum. He was certainly taking whatever it was she was giving.

One arm on his, the hand upon his shoulder, the lady in red glanced over to the spider queen, admiring the costume from behind her red and feathered mask. Then her attention was once again upon the man she was dancing with. Paying attention to what she was doing allowed for dancing that much closer, matching her steps perfectly to his. She tilted her face up to gaze into those baby blues. Yes, definitely Rory, she thought.

?You did not have a date to the ball?? The near-full mask tilted on its axis. It was an odd effect, the blue eyes on a slant in a row.

?No, I did not.? She chuckled softly and then grinned, giving another wink. ?I was too excited about the tournament on Sunday and forgot all about offering an opportunity to be asked to the dance. So the most gallant and most handsome man I know never got the chance.?

?You're in some kind of tournament coming up?? His head straightening, his hand assumed a firmer press on the small of her back, and it slid down a little, pulling her even closer, slowing their dance and bringing both hands to the back of her hips, just barely over her butt. ?Well, if he is as good as you say... He should have invited you. Unless he didn't know about it...?

?Aye, a tag team tournament, as the partner of the Diamond holder.? Catalina interlaced her fingers at the nape of his neck. So he would have asked her out had he known about the dance in time that was good to know. Her tongue quickly darted over her lips before she winked again. ?He did not know, I had no chance to tell him.?

?Do you win the diamond, if you win??

?No, I don't think so.? She shook her head slightly. What would she do with a diamond anyway?

?Shame.?

?Ah, not really. You see, the most gallant and most handsome man I know promised to kiss all the bruises gathered afterward. There can be no prize better than that.? She smiled.

?He sounds like quite the catch. Perhaps you should leave the ball and go look for him??

?You did not have a date for tonight's masque either?? It would make little sense for her to leave to look for him if she was in his arms already.

?I did not.?

?How come??

?Well, I don't usually make dates. I don't like going on them often. And I also didn't know about this until the last minute.?

?I consider myself lucky then.? His words put a warm and happy smile on her full lips.

?Oh? And why is that??

?It could be for that I am treated to such superb dancing right now, then again it may have something to do with the date agreed upon for Sunday.? She winked again.

?Well, that sounds nice. What are you doing on your date??

?Uhm, he really only said he'd kiss the bruises afterward. The rest is up in the air.?

?Ah. Well, that still sounds nice. Kissing can be quite a lot of fun.?

?I do have to agree.? She gave him a mysterious smile. ?Especially with someone who knows what he or she doing.?

?And does he or she?? His hands slid a little lower, halfway onto her tight bum, still dancing, slow little circles. Her fingers lightly brushed against the nape of his neck.

?He most certainly does. You'd have to ask him about if she does.? She winked and gave a soft little sigh, but he certainly couldn't hear that over the music, could he? ?Perhaps I should take your advice and search for him.?

?And where do you think you might find him??

?I do believe that right at this moment you may find him on this dance floor.?

He pulled her a bit closer, their hips almost touching. The golden mask was tilted down, looking first at her face, then down the front of her dress, over the rest of her body for a small moment, and then back to her face. The bright blue eyes shone, almost matching the brilliance of that wide, stadium-light grin, dimples and teeth and a strong jaw line just underneath the end of the mask. All that temptation was impossible to resist. Her head came that much closer to his, her lips only and inch or so away from his.

?Ooh, you'll have to point him out. Let me know which way to take you and we'll get nice and close. You can make him jealous, dancing with a handsome, masked stranger.?

?I do not think him to be jealous of anyone I am merely dancing with. You'd have to take me closer to the mask of radiance.? Her lips remained slightly parted with the smile she gave him at the end of that sentence.

?Well that's a shame.? He smiled, a calculating one, and stopped mid-dance. ?Well, time for some champagne I think. ?He bowed a little and removed his hands from her and turned for the bar. The grin exploding on his face once his back was to her. Games, games, how he liked to play them.

?Tease.? She almost stumbled as she was so suddenly released, but then caught her balance. She should have expected some sort of game from him.

A hand over one shoulder, the index finger curling his way, as he walked, he pointed back at Catalina and then to himself with the curl.

?Right, just wait and see.? Catalina couldn?t help but chuckle at the man and followed over to the bar.

He turned, a quick little number, tapping at the high cheekbone of the golden mask, it tilted morosely so to one side, drawing a tear down it and his mouth exposed in a frown. It was like he'd practiced with it. He was exceptionally good at getting all the pantomimes just right.

Catalina gave a melodious chuckle and then brought her hands up in front of her, applauding the performance.

?Very well done, Rogue of Radiance.? She wondered how often he had used that particular expression in the past.

?Aeihn' sure what you mean.? He said in a very, very quiet whisper. Then he turned and flagged the bartender down, and there were two drinks in front of them quickly. ?Now come and sit on the Mask's lap.?

?Oi'in' ye'now. ? She replied in a miserable adaptation of the brogue she had come to like so well. He didn?t have to repeat his invitation. He hiked her up easily onto his lap, was perhaps even a little rough with her, getting her in there good. Once upon his lap she folded her legs at the knee again under that very red gown and wrapped an arm around his shoulder. Then she reached for one of the glasses with her free hand and offered the glass to him. ?You must be parched.?

?Tired, is what I am. A little thirsty, though, too.?

?Here you go then. I can tug you in later.? She winked and since he'd not taken the glass from her she brought it to his lips, tilting it carefully. The intention was to offering a drink, not to spill the drink.

?Well, then I might head off for it. It wears on me. Being in this get-up, talking like this.? He helped steady the glass.

?I'm sure it is.? When he had his fill from the glass, for now, she moved it away and replaced it with her lips. He got a good one on her and then gently patted her up off his lap.

?You're more than welcome to come with, now, or come by later. But I'm going now.? He didn't say it in a mean way, it was just true.

?I'd rather come now, thanks though.? She smiled and picked up the rose, then offered her hand. She appreciated his way of inviting her, devoid of pressure yet making sure she understood that he expected her to accept. Very softly she added. ?Someone has to help you get out of these duds.?

?Exactly.? He gave her butt a pinch, content to leave it at that for now, and started off for the room in the inn. With a chuckle Catalina fell in step beside him.

Chocolate Rum Raisin Cookies

The tournament over, Catalina decided that walking across the alley to the inn would be a distance she was far more likely to manage than the long way back to the ranch. Rory had better be there, too, or I may just have to break into his room, she thought as she limped into the inn, nursing a bandaged wrist. She was still in her leathers. The original plan had been to change into one of the new outfits after the tournament was over, but as things had gone she?d now not be able to get out of her clothes without assistance.

She paused for a moment and then headed for a table, glad she thought to take the half empty bottle with her. Carefully she nudged out a chair with a foot and then, just as carefully, lowered herself into that stool, wincing anyway. She took a swig from the bottle and then set it on the table.

When she spotted Rena a moment later she grinned over. Raising a hand to wave would take too much effort just now. Rena waved, but she didn't come over. Catalina glanced to the stairs. It would take more 'medicine' before she'd attempt to climb those stairs. With that thought she picked up the bottle again for another drink

Then she spotted Ariana and Collie sitting at the bar and smiled over to them.

?I have those cookies for you, as well as B-a-k-l-a-v-a.? Ariana called over with a grin and waved while Colly merely waved and then resumed her conversation with her friend.

?Ohhh, evil woman!? Catalina returned with a pained grin. ?I'll get up...just give me half an hour or so.? With that she reached for that 'medicine' bottle again to take a swig.

?Me, evil?? Ariana gave the impression of the very picture of innocence, with a dramatic placement of her hand to her heart. ?Take your time... hmm??

Catalina winced just hearing Ariana. But just the idea of chocolate rum raisin cookies was so tempting. No pain no gain, Catalina told herself, and rose to her feet, ever so slowly and wincing twice. Then she grabbed up the bottle for another swig before she slowly limped over to the bar and Ariana.

?Now, wot happened to you, Catey? Lose an argument with that rogue of yours?? Ariana asked in a teasing manner, but there was an undercurrent of ?she'll kick arse if it was true?.

?I won the argument and it was with a horse dumber than a pile of straw and a trap, thank you very much. Those cookies better be good.? Catalina didn?t even attempt to sit on one of the barstools but remained standing.

?They are indeed a popular addition to the menu at the Bakery in fact. Oh? I shall have to talk to this particular equine.? Ariana offered as Collie set out brownies on plates.

?Yes, you should. You'd think it LIKE to be freed from a trap. I knew there was a reason I rather walk.? Catalina, while she knew how to ride just fine, had never liked horses. ?Sooo...where are those cookies??

?In the basket here, where else?? Ariana grinned as she teased Catey.

?Right.? Catalina grinned to Ariana and then found a spot to settle her 'medicine' bottle to, because she needed a free hand to reach into the basket with to fish for a rum raisin chocolate cookie.

?Horses are often more reasonable than men.? Colly looked over to Carey and winked. It was a sentiment Catalina did not share.

?Someone trapped the equine?? There was a brief flash of temper in Ariana?s emerald green eyes.

?It stepped like a blind idiot into one. And yes, the criminal idiot who put a trap there right by the trail should be quartered and drawn.? Catalina bit into the cookie with a vengeance.

?At the least, Catey. But you're not seriously hurt??

?A few bruises from falling off and a few more from getting stepped on and wrestling with the beast while trying to convince it to hold still long enough for me to work the trap open. Getting it back to the stable was fairly easy in comparison.? The beast trying to bolt with the injured leg and Catalina holding on to the reins resulted in the sprained wrist.

?Cass and I came in third. Bran and Erasmus won and since Bran is the diamond, Erasmus won the opal.? Rena told Collie just then and Catalina was reminded that this insufferable horse had also cost her the participation in the tournament.

?Oi. Where is this noble beast now? Or did he run off into the face of another trap?? Ariana asked.

?I'd not doubt that it would have run into another trap, but I managed to hold onto it and carefully walked it back. Now he's resting in the stable, with oats of all things. It should have put on water and straw, dumb beast.? Catalina took another bite from the cookie, enjoying the taste of home despite all the not quite dulled enough with whiskey pain. Had Marek ever sold her a gun she?d have shot that idiot of a horse. It was probably just as well that she had not run into him again.

?You showed kindness, which is well in your favor. I will have a talk with him, though, on his manners.? Ariana seemed seriously upset with the horse she didn?t even know.

?I had to pull out of the tag team tournament, too.? Catalina grinned to Ariana then, only too happy to give her the horse?s address. ?He's on Val's ranch.?

?Ah. A pity you missed the tournament. Do I know this Val?? Ariana was ready to tease poor Catey if need be.

?Valmion, perhaps?? Collie suggested.

?I'm not sure. King Val Demure dated Rena for a while he was staying in Rhydin...well, staying at the Ranch.? Catalina put the rest of the cookie into her mouth and chewed. The cookie gone she reached for the 'medicine' bottle, the label proclaimed it to be some whiskey or other, and had another swig.

?Hmm, no, I don't know them.? Ariana turned back to Catey after having wished someone leaving a good night.

?You can give the beast a good talking to anyway.? Catalina grinned and set the bottle down again to reach into that basket for another cookie with a slight wince.

?He definitely needs to learn proper manners, and gratitude.? Ariana agreed.

?If he was trapped, he was probably terrified.? Collie defended the horse to Ariana as she poured some iced tea into a glass.

?I agree. That trap layer can't be all that smart either. But the boys from the ranch will take care of that. They were cussing up a storm, too.?

?I imagine they would be. The trap layer will have a Staff Meeting.? Ariana turned to Collie then. ?Indeed, but still, gratitude.?

?A staff meeting. Oh that's good.? Catalina snickered.

?Have you heard of the ones I conduct, then?? Ariana?s coppery brow went up again.

?You conduct staff meetings?? Perhaps she had been wrong when she had pictured Ariana beating up the trapper with a staff.

?Mmhmm.? Ariana admitted with a wicked grin. ?My Staff has a Meeting with their heads, then anywhere else, if need be.?

?If you hit that beasty on the head his last brain cell may fall out.? Catalina snickered again.

?Indeed.? Ariana chuckled. Then Ariana was distracted by a patron inquiring about where to find a church and then Collie took her leave. Catalina made us of the distraction munching up the cookie.

?I may have you taste a cookie which combines the flavors of B-a-k-l-a-v-a, Catey.? Ariana grinned.

?A Baklava cookie? Where are you hiding them?? Ariana certainly knew how to distract from all the discomforts.

?I believe about three miles to the west, The Temple of Peaceful Light, the name was. Oh, they're still in the testing stage, but I do have some of the genuine article here.?

?I'll be your tester.? Catalina offered immediately with a grin.

?I could hire you as that position, but I'd much prefer you give an opinion not biased on how much coin I give you. I do hire people to do just that. ? Ariana was grinning, but the offer was genuine.

Catalina reached for the 'medicine' bottle just the same for another swallow before answering.

?You want to pay me for eating your divine creations? I thought getting to eat them was plenty of re-imbursement.? Catalina turned serious because a serious offer was made. ?I get paid pretty well right now for sitting on my bum. Sooner or later I'll have to go back. It wouldn't be right for me to accept a permanent employment. But I'll be happy to try everything you bake for free while I'm here. On that note, those chocolate rum raisin cookies are perfect.

?I value your opinion highly, Catey. Even more so without my coin backing it up.? Ariana grinned. ?I was hoping so. Poor Melly and Alli got giggly testing the various batches before this one.?

?Too much of these cookies will do that.? Catalina chuckled.

?Mmhmm. Even more so when they're soaked in rum after baking. I tried that with a few runs.?

?And I missed those??

?I could make you a batch of those, but my poor assistant and my counter help were both giggling about bright pink pachyderms when they tried them.?



?Tell me when you want to make them and I'll be there. And I won?t see any pink pachyderms either. Unless such a thing really exists - this town has all sorts of creatures.?

?I could make some middle of this week.? Ariana tapped her fingers against her cheek. ?And I'll put them in a special tin, not to be put out with the day's baked goods.?

?That sounds perfect, gives me a couple of days to heal up some.? Catalina smiled. She had been surprised that Ariana really had gone through the trouble and all the experimenting to make those cookies from her childhood, and all that from no more at its root than little game of truth or dare.

?Mmhmm. I'd go easy on that, though, if I were you.? Ariana pointed briefly to the whiskey bottle. ?Too much, and you're numb permanently.?

?That doesn't quite work; I tried that for a while. Thanks for your concern, though.? Catalina smiled. IT had been a long time since anyone cared enough to say anything like that to her.

?I worry about all my friends, Catey. Occupational hazard, as I'm a mother.? Ariana grinned.

?I wasn't complaining.?

?Even if you were, I'd still do it.?

?Good.? But that didn't keep Catalina from reaching for the bottle again for another sip. When she sat it down again she smiled to Ariana. ?I promise to head upstairs without opening a second one. May I have another cookie now, please??

?Good. Otherwise I'd treat you like one of my children, and Paddle you.? With a nod to the basket she added, ?Of course.?

?Please, not tonight.? Catalina groaned. That horse had done enough damage to make up for several years worth of minor infractions, Catalina thought.

?Then behave.? Ariana grinned.

?I am behaving.? If badly or well, Catalina left up in the air.

?Good girl. I may even set aside some of those cookies I'm testing for you. I spoil those I'm fond of.?

?You're too good to me.? Catalina smiled. ?Did I tell you yet that I'm very glad I ran into the very first night I came back into town? Well, I am.?

?I believe you did, but it's nice to hear, again.? Ariana grinned pleased.

?I may say it again in another week or two.? Catalina warned with a warm smile. Then both turned toward the door that had just burst open to admit a dripping warrior. His clothes, boots, chain, shield, sword, all appeared thoroughly soaked.

?Is it raining outside, or did you fall in a lake somewhere, sir?? Ariana greeted the newly arrived patron before she turned to Catey. ?And I'll be just as happy to hear it again.?

?Yes, a really big lake...? The warrior shook his head and then looked up and down the bar to see if there was a tender.


?Smells of salt water.? Catalina decided after a moment. Catalina reached for the bottle again and had another swig, then glanced at it before setting it down again and commented to herself with a pained glance toward the stairs. ?Two more, tops.?

?You might want to get that mail off, before you rust into it, then.? Ariana sniffed the air with a grin. ?Mmhmm.?

?Aye, my companions and I were celebrating. We got a little carried away when one of them tossed me overboard, a little too much joy. Not sure how I got here though.? The warrior explained with a bit of a grin.

?Perhaps a strange current in the sea. You're at the Red Dragon Inn. I'm Ariana, that's Catey. And I don't know anyone else here, or I'd introduce you to them.? Ariana replied with a friendly grin.

?It's a pleasure to meet you all. I am Leif. I'd give you both a hug, but I don't think wet Viking smells very pleasant. I'll just spare you the grief tonight.? Leif offered a crooked smile as he took off his belt and shield in perpetration for taking off the armor.

?Good evening, Leif, nice to meet you. And ugh?? She winced at the mere idea of a hug tonight, ?rain check on that hug??

?I've smelled far worse. Well met, indeed, Leif. My poor friend here had a difference of opinion with a horse, and she lost.? Ariana explained Catey?s response.

?I beg to differ. I won.? Catalina grinned.

?Never... liked the ... darn beast meself.? Leif grunted with effort as he hopped to bring the armor over his head and then bent over, shimmy sliding out of the chain. The chain hauberk hit the floor with a thud, and he just sighed.

?A man of my heart.? Catalina sighed.

?They can be temperamental, my Raven especially.? Ariana glanced to an open window.

?Pretty much useless now, I have no oils to keep it from rusting now.? Leif donned the belt with sword again and leaned the shield up against the bar next to the armor before he grabbed a mug and filled it with something from the tap.

?You could find some oils in town, I'm sure. They sell everything in this town and then some.? Catalina offered helpfully.

?You still might want to keep it... exactly, wot Catey said.?

?Best thing for that I find is medicinal mead.? Leif said to the ladies before he took a sip of his own drink. He frowned then; obviously he didn't find mead after all. ?I will try to find some for sure. Be interesting to find a way to pay at this point though.?

?Some merchants accept barter. In the meantime, if you favor cinnamon rolls, help yourself.? Ariana offered the basket which smelled of baked goods toward Leif.

?Some even let you work off your purchases.? Catalina reached for the 'medicine' bottle again and this time finished it off in two swallows and then settled the empty bottle back onto the counter.

?Then I'll just have to work it off for now.? Leif nodded, grinning at the information.

?I couldn't do-? Leif was interrupted by a growling stomach. He grinned then and headed over to take one of the offered goodies. ?My appetite says to do so though. Thank you ma'am.? The soaked Norseman now held a mug of ale? in one hand, and a cinnamon roll in the other.

?Say, Ariana, one of those Seamusses we talked about the other evening wasn't per chance a Connor?? Catalina suddenly remembered to ask

?You're quite welcome. Unfortunately, I don't have any cheese bread. My father favors that... ? Then Ariana turned to Catey. ?Hmm? No, not the one I know of. Someone else you should be telling me about, hmm? ?

?Good .? Catey grinned but didn?t offer any additional information.

?Mmmm, these are good.? Leif grinned with appreciation after he took a bite of the roll and a swig of ale to wash it down. Then he moved off in front of the fireplace to dry off.

?Well, I had better be off.? Catalina sighed deeply and steeled herself to brave the stairs. ?Good night Ariana, Good night Leif.?

?Take care, Catey.? Ariana offered, her voice concerned.

?Good night miss.? Leif nodded over from the fire place.

Catalina, her face set with determination, slowly limped toward the stairs, nursing that bandaged wrist as she walked, and then even more slowly climbed the stairs.

Some time later, after Seamus had been settled with a glass of honeyed milk and after Marek had served a drink to the lady and been given that kiss he had charged for it, and he and Seamus had discussed who would be paying for Catalina?s refill, a knife came whistling by, going straight for Marek?s heart. His boosted reflexes kicked in and three hand blades shot out of his left hand, catching incoming blade and deflecting with a low growl.

?Lady... that's just rude...?

Nice catch.? The woman who had thrown the blade applauded in seeming delight. The man sitting with her praised and chided her in the same sentence, not for the throwing of the knife but for failing to inflict serious injury.

?Be right back, doll.? Seamus murmured to a rather stunned Catey as he set the small, remaining piece of the Baklava and his mug on the counter before he moved off of the stool to help pick up the glass and clean the mess that had resulted from a startled bystander dropping a few things.

?That was your one out. You don't get another. The next time you hit the floor and don't get up, doll face.? Marek looked to the pair. The three blades slid back into his flesh and out of view with a quick snap.

?What're ye drinkin' Catey?? Seamus brushed up the spilled milk and mug with the broom and then rose to make for the garbage. He'd refill Catey's drink on his way back.

?Whiskey, no ice, please.? Catalina held the empty glass out for him and then watched as he turned to grab a bottle of whiskey and poured the contents into her glass.

?Better?? He asked before returning the bottle.

?Much, thank you.? Catalina said with a warm smile to Seamus and then brought the glass up to her lips, drinking deeply before she sat the glass down again. By the time Seamus was once again seated on his stool next to hers Marek had finished his argument with the man, Bob, that obviously been the driving force behind that thrown knife.

?Well... I'm off... got a bit of sleep to do before the sun rises... catch you all on the flip side.? Marek offered with a friendly nod to each seated at the bar. After a moment and having received good night wishes from everyone, he slid out from behind the bar and moved toward to the door.

?Is that dolt for real?? Catalina shook her head at Bob and then winced slightly as she shifted slightly in her stool and promptly picked up her glass again for another drink. ?Does he even know what it feels to come into town from a mission and find out the people you knew are all dead or worse and there's nothing but new young faces around? He sure doesn't sound like it.?

?Mus' b'.? Seamus watched Catey carefully, making sure she wasn?t about to fall, and then shrugged to Catey before looking to Bob.

?I do.? Ariana raised her glass in a silent toast that Catalina returned and then drained it.

Seamus caught Catey?s glance toward the left over piece of Baklava and picked it up with a soft chuckle, holding it up for her. Ever so carefully she took that last piece from Seamus' fingers, her lips brushed lightly against those fingertips. With a smirk he traced a fingertip along Catey's lower lip under the guise of dusting the crumbs off.

?Yummy? He watched with a crooked grin as Catey caught that fingertip with the tip of her tongue - to catch a drop of honey of course. There was a rather impish sparkle to Catey?s very blue eyes. Seamus pulled his hand away, lifting his mug to finish it off. ?I'm afraid I'm gettin' plum tired, Catey.. Are ye tired??

?Yes, and I may just have drunk enough of that vile stuff to be able to sleep, too.? She smiled to Seamus, but then had to chuckle when she realized what March that was Ariana was humming.

?Yer room is upstairs, too, aye?? Seamus chuckled.

Ariana glanced to the time candle, with a soft Gaelic oath. ?I should've been home hours ago. You both take care.? Ariana gathered up her basket and slid off her stool.

?You too Ariana. Have a good night.? Then nodded to Seamus with a warm smile. ?To the right, third door to the left, I think.?

?Nice t' meet ye, Miss Ariana.? Seamus grinned to Ariana and gave her a knowing look and a wave.

?It's Mrs.? Ariana grinned. ?I get to warm my feet on my husband.?

?Ah, pardon me, then, Mrs. Ariana.? Seamus replied with a crooked smile. ?An' I bet 'e's a lucky man, too, 'avin' a wife who bakes, tends, cooks 'n' kicks arse.? Then he chuckled at Catey as he rose from his stool. ?Ye think??

?Don't trust her directions, remember. He is, indeed. He's a woodcrafter. Take care.? Ariana waved over her shoulder as she padded barefoot for the door.

?Yeah, yeah... I remember.? Seamus chuckled after Ariana as he prepared to pick up Catey. ?Ready??


?Yes.? Keeping the injured hand close to her body, she reached up for Seamus's shoulders with her healthy arm as he scooped her up into his arms. ?And thank you much.?

?Eh, it's no problem. On th' way t' me room, anyway.? He gave her a concerned look before he began to move toward the stairwell, making sure she wasn?t getting too jostled. ?Ye a'right??

?It's better than walking, believe me.? Catalina gave him a warm smile as she slid her arm all the way around his shoulders.

?So ye will recognize yer door fi ye see it, aye?? Seamus minded his steps for once as he started up the stairs.

?Aye, that I will.? Catalina wasn?t even biting her bottom lip. And that made him preen with pride.

?See your door?? He stepped onto the landing and began to walk down the hallway to the right, glancing to the third on the left curiously.

?That one looks right.? Catalina nodded at the same door. ?It shouldn?t be locked.?

?A'right, 'fraid I'm gonna 'ave t' shift yer a bit 'ere, sorry.? He lowered for a moment, using the hand under her knees to twist at the door handle and a booted foot to swing the door open. ?Need me t' get ye into bed, or do ye think ye it'll be okay if I let ye off 'ere??

?I should be okay if you let me off here.? Catalina declines his offer with another warm smile. ?Thank you so very much. For everything you've for me this evening, Seamus.?

?Always a pleasure.? He gave her a cheeky grin as he stooped down again to gently set her on her feet. ?It really was no problem. An' no more 'orse traps, a'right?? He adopted a scolding tone, but ended with a smile.

?You should tell the horse that.? Catalina kept her arm around his shoulders and, tilting her face up, gazed into his blue green eyes.

?Maybe I will.? He grinned, looking into her very blue eyes intently before he leaned forward, just to kiss her forehead lightly. ?Now ye get yerself some good night's rest!?

But then her hand had moved into his hair and he snaked a hand around her head and he reeled her in for a soft kiss. Soft parted lips moved against his. He'd have done the dip and all if she wasn't injured.

?Now is it all better?? He smiled softly when he drew back.

?Yes, much better.? She smiled back in kind ?Have a good night, Seamus and thank you again.?

?Thank ye muchly, an' sweet dreams. I'll see ye around, aye?? He wished with a crooked smile, his hand brushed her jaw line before it fell back to his side.

?I very much hope so.? Catalina gave him another warm smile and a look that was more than just thankful, and then she turned to slip inside, closing the door slowly and softly behind her.

Seamus grinned at the closed door before he ambled down the hallway to his own room. He pulled out his key, unlocked the door and pushed it open. Stepping in quickly, he kicked it shut behind him.

Catalina followed Marek out to the alley. He was making short work of the donut he had snagged up on his way out, wiping a hanky over his mouth and then dropping it into a trash bin outside.

?Hm... not a bad donut... and I know donuts.? Marek snuffed out his cigar against the buildling's side and tucked it away into a pocket of his leather jacket before he moved to remove the leather belt and large holster from his hips as Catalina watched quietly.

?All right... stand tall?? Marek instructed with a smirk to her, moving over with the gun belt in hand. Catalina stood perfectly still; she never slouched and there was nothing she could do to improve upon her height. Humming a tune upon his lips as he settled the leather gun belt around her hips, buckling' it in the front.

The large leather holster came down her right thigh to about the knee. Then Marek pulled the seemingly scaled down version of an old western rifle from the holster and with a light swing of the weapon he cocked with the motion of the lever.

?Lever action rifle... well, a scaled down version this is. So it can be carried at your hip. All be it larger then any other handgun you'd have at your hip. Fires a .44 caliber slug, for you, I've had silver rounds made up due to your mention of... wolf troubles.?

?Well, not so much wolves. I'd not mind wolves, I think, never had to fight with one.? She grinned and paused to remember the correct translations. ?It's skeletons, zombies, vampires and whatever else those necromancing dragons can think up I'm worried about.?

?I know whatcha' mean. I can suggest a good wiz' or mage maybe to bless your ammunition if you want in the future to kill those things.? Marek winked and nodded. ?You cock the weapon and advance the next round by pulling the lever here?? He motioned to the large ring under the cut down rifle. ?It's made to be fired with both hands for a better shot, but this weapon can be fired single handed with practice.? He turned slightly and lined up the weapon in his hands as looked down the barrel.

?Practice it is. I don't always have two hands available.? Catalina grinned with a quick but pointed glance to her bandaged wrist before she glanced at the weapon again. She?d run into plenty of situations were one or the other hand would have to do to wield her knife. ?It does look much more handsome and elegant than I pictured it from your description.?

?Practice would be good for now probably.? Marek winked to her and her wrist. Then he turned back to the weapon and fired off a round down the alleyway, shooting a goblet that was left upon one of the trash cans clear off and to the ground. A quick flick of the rifle's lever and another round was advanced into the chamber with another round fired off with a burst of sound to impact with the goblet on the ground now, casting it several feet further down the alleyway. Then he nodded to her as he spun the weapon within his hand.

?Nice!? Catalina had watched carefully and admired the seeming ease with which Marek handled the weapon. ?You made that look very easy.?

?Simple and easy to use... you reload one round at a time here?? He indicated the spot on the short rifle. ?Holds fifteen rounds of ammunition. So plenty to start off with in a fight before you'll have to reload.?

?Fifteen is good. And the bullets are less bulky than arrows, too.? Catalina grinned.

?I know?? Marek smirked to her. ?But I've been using various firearms for quite a few years now... so I've gotten in my practice with shooting.? He nodded with a light smile. ?Yeah... a small pouch or even pockets... you could keep extra bullets in while traveling unlike keeping arrows at your back.?

?I liked the sound of that the first time I heard of such a weapon being in existence.? Catalina smiled, already re-thinking how she would set up for her next mission, provided she could get any good at handling the new equipment by then.

?You might want to wait a day or two before you practice a few shots out in the open somewhere though. Let that hand of yours heal up a bit more.? Mare smirked and gave a flip of the weapon while he held onto the lever and advanced another round into the chamber.

?I have one good one, isn't that enough? Eventually it'll have to work with either anyway.? And it might even be a good idea to use the opportunity to learn how to make things work while in less than tip top shape.

?True enough.? Marek smirked again and gave a nod of his head. ?Up to you if want to take a few shots now... or wait on it.?

?I'd really like to try while you're here to correct whatever I'll be doing wrong.? Catalina insisted with a smile.

?All right...? With a nod and a light flip of the cut down rifle within a hand he offered her the back end.

Catalina took up the back end, her hand moved to it in a copy of how she had observed him grasping it, somewhat underestimating the weapon's weight and adjusting for it.

?Easier to balance than a sword. Did you aim by feel or is there anything to look for??

?She'll have a slight kick to her, like a mule... but you'll get used to it.? Marek moved back slightly, to her side and a step back behind. It was always best to stay out of the range of fire. ?Rule of thumb, don't put your finger on the trigger till you are ready to fire. First line it up with what you're wanting to take down. Give a look gently down the top of the barrel, she'll fire straight and true... you just have to be steady and hold the barrel in aim at your target.?

?At least you didn't you didn't say like a horse.? Catalina chuckled and then sobered to do as instructed, copying as well as she could remember the motions of the one armed shooting from the hip while trying to observe the difference between aiming at and the bullet actually hitting once she would pull the trigger.

Watchful of her Marek moved to put his cigar between his lips. Then he found his hand free and remembered he'd put it out' and put it away for now. He smirked at himself and looked back after her.

Catalina aimed sort of for the center of one of those trash cans down the alley, and then moved her finger to the trigger. The mule kick made her wince though and she lost track of the bullet over it.

?Not bad... like I said... takes a little practice... good to find a spot in the open forest maybe to do that. Hopefully your bullet doesn't travel to the markets.? Marek smirked, giving up a nod, though, and then winked.

?You think it could go that far?? Catalina grinned back before she aimed the weapon at the trash can again. Now she was prepared for the kick upon pulling the trigger and could make adjustments for it as well as keep her eyes on the target to see where the can would get hit.

Marek perked a smile, nodding after the hard sound of the round impacting and going into the can down the alleyway.

?The .44 round was made to go a bit of a distance and at the same time penetrate light armor. So even if your zombies or werewolves are wearing a suit like some knight in shining armor... you can send a round into it and knock them down.?

?Some do that, at least those freshly turned.? She turned to smile to Marek, satisfied with how that went. This would be so much easier than she had expected and this gun certainly had some enormous advantages over bow and arrow. She was only half f kidding with her next question, wondering how good he was on his feet. ?Are you sure you don't want to come along??

?I'd have to charge for the time.? Marek gave a wink and a smirk. ?If I'm around I might be inclined, business is picking up some, been busy about. The more practice?? He nodded to the cut down rifle. ?..The better you'll become and quicker you'll be able to fire and hit your target.?

?I wouldn't mind splitting pay, I certainly get paid plenty enough. I'll see if I'll have time to track you down when the next golden comes to fetch me back.? But he was right; she?d not have the luxury of time in the field. ?Aye, a lot faster. That's where practice comes in. I'll need lots of these of these bullets or are they reusable like arrows under practice conditions? And I should probably have you show me how to keep the thing clean.?

?Hold this for me for a moment please?? Catalina handed him the weapon back the same way he had offered it to her earlier.

?No, can't reuse them.? A smiled perked him as he ducked a hand into his leather jacket while taking the weapon in his free hand.

?Thanks.? Her hand free again, she moved it to her side and loosened the coin pouch she'd tied to her skirt earlier. Once it was lose she offers the smallish pouch. ?Count it, it ought to be sixty. I've no idea how much bullets should be.

?I trust ya... and no worry on the bullets... these are tossed in for free. Should be enough to give you some practice time. I can get you more the next time I see of ya' probably.? Marek pulled free a small velvet pouch with a light jingling and traded pouches with her with a nod and a smirk. Then he tucked the traded pouch below his leather jacket to a large inside pocket.

?Thank you, Marek. That is very generous of you.? She gave him an appreciative smile. ?Would it be more cost efficient to use normal ones for practice and keep the silver ones for when meaning business??

?Probably... I'll get you though a healthy supply of both. So you have plenty for practice... and plenty for carrying around in case you find trouble, or trouble finds you.? He nodded and moved to tuck the cut down rifle snugly into the large leather holster at her side with a wink.

?You do expect me to get into a lot of trouble. There's still the matter of cleaning...? She chuckled as she watched him, and for the moment didn?t mind the throbbing in her sprained wrist. ?I presume it likes water about as much as blades do??

?I'll get you a simple little cleaning kit for it.? He nodded gently with a step back. ?Little special cleaning solution instead of water for the weapon would work better. Don't worry, I'll even make sure to have instructions so you can follow along after I show you the first time through.?

?We shall have to have to agree upon another date at least for all that.? Catalina smiled, eyes twinkling.

?Sure thing... I'll keep it simple and to the point as not to bore ya too.? Marek nodded, a smile perked his lips again.

?Something totally new is rarely boring, especially when it includes hand on experimenting ? Catalina winked.

?Well... I'd have to agree with you there on several topics actually. True enough.? Marek nodded with a chuckle.

?I must say I'm a bit surprised though.? Catalina teased with a mischievous grin.

?Why's that?? Marek asked obligingly.

?I am so glad you asked.? Catalina responded with a flirtatious wink. ?I keep hearing the word 'free' fall from your lips. Are you sure that you're quite all right? You did learn you numbers at some point, didn't you? Twice ten is not one or free.?

?Yeah... I learned'm, just being nice. I do that from time to time when not working. Don't worry, I'll charge you extra for the next round of bullets.? He chuckled and winked in teasing.

?I'm glad you said 'extra' instead of double.? Catalina chuckled, still looking right at Marek, and with that teasing twinkle still very much present in her gaze.

?I have my moments, no worries. Like I said the other night... first time buyers get a discount.? Marek smirked.

Catalina shook her head slightly and then winked, ?That's not what I meant, just that double of nothing is, well, still nothing.?

?I've had it worse off.? He gave her a wink and a knowing smile perked his lips. ?If it'll make you feel better, I'll charge extra for the silver rounds.?

?You should if it makes me feel better or not.? She winked back. ?But yes, it probably would make me feel better.?

?Hey, it's your coin.? Marek chuckled. ?I'll see about getting that cleaning kit together for ya.?

?Thank you, Marek.? Catalina stepped up to him and placed her hand on his shoulder.

?Not a problem, quite welcome. Just don't shoot any of the Watch or myself by accident with that.? He nodded down with a wink and a smile.

?I'll try not to.? That nod of his sure came in handy for brushing a thank you with her lips against his. Catalina winked up and then stepped back, her hand slipping off his shoulder and returning to her side.

?Not a problem, doll face.? Marek smiled and gave a nod.

?Just call me Catey.? She chuckled. ?Is tomorrow too soon to meet about bullets and a weapon cleaning lesson??

?Hm... I'll have to see... I might be able to. Got a few meetings to get through... biz' deals... but we'll see, maybe.? He nodded.

?Sounds good enough.? She smiled and then nodded to the door. ?Time to go back in??

?I s?pose... Be careful with that hand while you practice for a while.? He reminded her again with another nod.

?I'll be sure to keep that in mind, thank you.? She?d be careful, but she wouldn?t let one little injury keep her from practicing either.

Marek moved to open the door for her and then followed her in after she stepped into the inn again.

A Long Ride

The two horses tied up outside, Catalina came into the inn to meet up with Seamus. He had offered to come to the Ranch with her today to give her some pointers on how to make the best use of her new toy, the gun she bought from Marek just a couple of days before. Her sprained wrist still bothered her, but she had resolved to not let that injury interfere with her enjoyment of the day.

Catalina looked up to the noise moving down the stairs. Seamus was already limping down the stairway, rushing as best as he could. The large canvas bag was making a fair amount of racket, echoing down the stairwell, as it was full of cans. Twin guns were holstered at his hips, banging against his thighs to further heighten his discomfort.

?Need any help with that?? She grinned up to Seamus.

He was grumbling as he shifted the bag to his other shoulder but smiled when he heard Catey and looked over to eye her. She was wearing her leathers today, a sensible outfit for riding, and she still had her wrist bandaged.

?Nae, I'm a big boy.? Seamus gave Catalina a cheeky grin as he made his way over to her, limping slightly.

?Should I have brought a pack horse too? You plan on making me practice until I fall over.? She chuckled and then, with a pointed glance to his leg, asked what happened.

?Th' bag innit nothin' at all. An' jus' thought I'd b' on th' safe side.? Seamus snickered and then glanced down at his leg with a little shrug. ?Oh tha'? Nothin'...? He pointedly looked away, changing the subject. ?So, ye a'ready t' go??

?Right, nothing, just no chasing you around.? Catalina teased with a soft chuckle. ?Yes dear, I'm ready and so are the horses and there's a fence waiting somewhere.?

?Lead th' way then, missus.? Seamus gave her a crooked grin. When Catey held the door open for him he nodded to her before he slipped outside. ?Thank ye muchly, doll.?

?Wow, th' 'orses are... 'uge!? Seamus?s eyes widened at the sight of the horses waiting there, saddled and ready to go. The horses that stood there saddled and ready to go were huge. They bred war horses on Val's ranch. These were not yet fully trained, though, which suited him just fine. When Catey asked him which one looked better to him he pointed to the further one. ?I'll take tha' one o'er there.?

?Did you think I'd let a pony beat me up?? Catalina chuckled at his surprise and then winked. ?Well, these here already had some training, so maybe they know not to step into traps, or if they do to had least hold still.?

?I don' know, maybe?? Seamus grinned. Then he moved over to the horse and, sticking his good foot in the stirrup, lugged himself over with one hand. He grunted a bit as it took him a bit more effort to get his other foot over, but he made it up onto the horse! That mattered! He looked down to Catalina then, laughing. ?Positive thinking, I like that.?

?Ready, Seamus?? Catalina was up on her horse in half the time and took up the reins.

?Ye bet.? He looked over to her after he tied the bag to the saddle, grasping the reins.

?Okay, Minimally Less Stupid, home to the barn.? With a click of her tongue to the horse she swung it around. Seamus snorted at her name for her mount and followed her example, clicking to his horse.

Suddenly Seamus grabbed her arm, not roughly but firmly enough to stop her. He sat down on the grass then, indicating for her to do so as well as he released her arm. When she sat down beside him he laid back and stretched his arms before palms joined to rest beneath his head.

?Ye 'ave t' lay back so tha' ye can look up at th' stars, silly.? He turned his head to grin up at her. ?'ow much do ye know about constellations? I don' know much of anythin' 'bout th' stars 'round 'ere... so I can't name 'em like I normally would.?

?Nothing at all about the constellations here and very little about the ones at home. As I said, being out in the open is to be avoided after dark, and when I'm out at night, I'm too busy looking around to look up.? She moved to lay down next to him, cushioning her head with her hands folded under it, just like he had demonstrated, and looked up where he was pointing.

?Tha's a galaxy. An' mos' stars are suns... Though, some are supernovas an' novas and well, there can b' black holes.? Then he pointed to a bluish star. ?I'm perdy sure tha's a planet, an' tha' red one o'er there is a ver' 'ot planet full o' noxious gasses.?

?Do you think people live there??

?Mos' likely on th' bluish one, but I doubt humanoids o' any sort could live on th' red one.?

?I wonder if one could see your Earth and my Dragon's Eye from here if one knew where to look.? That smile started to return to her lips as she imagined people being out there.

?Probably... Maybe when I go t' th' library t'morrow I will look an' see.? He turned to look at her with a smile.

?If you find the information in a book there will you show them to me?? She turned her head and gaze from the sky to look at him again, returning a warm smile.

?O' course.? He replied after a few long moments, grinning. ?I'll even make copies, 'ow 'bout tha'??

?Silly. What would I want with a copy?? She moved a hand out from under her head to poke him into the ribs.

?Bah, I don' know. T' r'member?? Seamus chuckled as he removed a hand from beneath his head to swat at her.

?Right.? Her hand caught his to avoid further swatting. ?Do you have no desire to repeat the experience??

?Wha' d' ye mean??

?To star gaze together is what I mean.? Catalina turned over with a soft sigh to look more directly at him, lifting her head.

?Oh, well?? He gave her a flustered look and blubbered. ?Tha's nae wha' I mean! O' course I'd like t'!?

?Time can be a precious thing.? Her voice dropped low to just above a whisper as she gazed into his face. ?And to some it is pure luxury.?

?Tha' so?? His brows rose as her looked at her, a smirk played across his face.

?Yes, that is so.? She still studied him closely.

?Hm, time is a strange concept...? He pondered, leaning back again to observe the stars.

?I have seen too many find that they have suddenly run out of it.? Perhaps it was an apology of sorts, perhaps not. But she leaned over then, bringing her lips to his, a tentative touch. He didn?t pull away, but he didn't push further, either.

?Are ye afraid t' run out o' time?? It was a kind question, whispered in a husky tone.

?Always.? Just the one word, her eyes searched his face.

?Why?? His brows furrowed as he gave her a perplexed look. For some reason, it was the main thing he thought of. Did she anticipate a short life?

?I have told you of my world, of my job. Couriers usually last less than two years...? She sat up then, breaking the contact and looking somewhere up ahead into the darkness. ?I've been working as courier for six years now. I do not remember parents or siblings. Friends have to be made fast or not at all, from one mission to the next there are no guaranties you will see anyone again, at least not alive, some one may see again as stiffs or bones.?

?Less than two years....?? His voice faltered as she looked away. ?Tha's kin' o' scary?? He frowned, sitting up and looking at her. ?I'm sorry.?

?I don't want pity.? She turned her head to look to him. Oh well, she had just said that she wasn't one for wasting time and he was still there rather than running off to the stables.

?Come on, let us think o' happier things.? He rose slowly and offered her a hand up. She took his hand and came to her feet. Then she lifted her arms to around his neck.

?Yes'm?? Seamus smirked and looked down at her amusedly. Instead of an answer she pulled his head down to hers. While the first brush of her lips against his was soft, it did not stay that way. She kissed him the way she would have liked to be kissed by him, thoroughly and with passion. He was taken by surprise at first, but he succumbed to her wanton desire. He returned the kiss just as roughly.

Not one to waste such a perfect opportunity she makes up for a few other way too gentle and chaste kisses and the one good night kiss she didn't get at all before she pulled back, grinning up to him.

"Ye are somethin', Miss Catey." Seamus looked at her with a smile, chuckling and shaking his head.

?Is it difficult to just call me Catey?? That was not the reaction she had hoped for. She searched his face again. Perhaps what she was looking for was just not there to be found.

?Yes.? He was honest, at least! He canted his head, looking at her curiously. ?Wha' are ye searchin' for, darlin'??

She moved her arms from his neck and brought them back to her side and took a step back before she shrugged. ?I was mistaken, I'm sorry.? She moved away then, toward the stables, leaving him to follow or not.

Lemon Bars

?Hungry?? Seamus asked her three days later as they left his room at the inn to head downstairs, waggling his brows at her and squeezing her hand gently.

?Like a wolf, and thirsty.? Catalina winked to him with a happy smile on her lips.

?O' yea'? Jus' like a wolf, ye say?? He chuckled at her comment and grinned like a fool as they moved down the stairwell. ?Cider again, t'nigh'??

?Cider or water or both. How about you? Guinness and three steaks??

?Three steaks? I don't know about that... Maybe some whiskey, though... It's been a long couple of days.? He gave her roguish wink as they made their way to the bar.

?Whiskey, hmm, we shall see about that. You never even opened the bottle you have upstairs.? She gave him another wink. To her the last three days and nights had seemed incredibly short. ?And what about the nights, were they any shorter??

?Ye are too funny, miss Catey. Th' nights were even longer!? Seamus chuckled deeply and squeezed her hand again with another roguish wink.

?And we already know you like that, Sir Seamus.? Catalina returned the gentle pressure playfully. She'd call him Sir every time he fell back to the Miss.

?Maybe I do. That a problem?? He asked with a cheeky grin.

?Not at all, it would be a problem if you didn't.? Catalina glanced to the bar briefly before she returned her gaze to Seamus. ?It appears we're save from teasing for now, too. Neither Ariana nor Collie are here.?

?So it b' seemin'. Lookin' like it'll b' jus' ye an' me.? Seamus had followed her gaze and then chuckled and waggled his brows at her again.

?While that suits me just fine, I'm sorry you'll be missing out on those lemon bars.? Catalina teasingly winked up to him.?

?Oh no, I f'rgot abou' th' lemon bars.? He looked crestfallen for all of half a minute before he smiled to her again. ?I don' mind yer company, ye know tha'.?

?I shouldn't have reminded you then.? She grinned and moved behind the bar since there didn?t appear to be a waiter. ?That makes me wish I'd have thought to bring my pack with me. There's a tin of baklava cookies in there too.?

?Wan' me t' join ye back there?? Seamus asked with another eyebrow waggle as he paused at the end of the bar.

?Of course.? She stopped when he did and slid a step back, tugging at his hand.

?Baklava? Mmm.? He grinned before he was pulled along at her tug. ?Ooh! A strong woman, jus' what I always wan'ed!?

?Baklava would go great with whiskey. Drinks first or should we go see if they keep any food in the kitchen first?? Catalina laughed softly. ?Just don't expect me to carry you up the stairs. I don't think I'm quite that strong.?

?Food firs', o' else I'll b' drunk after one!? He smiled softly at her musical laughter. ?Ah, tha's no fun!?

?You could have stayed at the farm with the cookies, then you could drink whiskey under the stars and no one would mind us sleeping outside.? She pulled him along into the kitchen to see about finding something edible.

?Ye are th' one who got mad at me.? Seamus accused with an innocent look.

?Me being mad at anyone looks quite different. You did give me plenty of reasons to assume that you'd rather be back in town, though.? She paused her search of the cool box long enough to wink over to him. He merely stuck his tongue out at her. ?Do you like ham and cheese? You still didn't tell me what exactly of all the things I said on the way back here it was that changed your mind.?

?I like food.? She shrugged with another small smile, being anything but helpful. ?Ye really wanna know??

?Yes, I'd love to know.? She?d not have asked otherwise. She took out enough ham and cheese for two hungry people and found a plate to set both on. Then she smiled to Seamus with a twinkle in her eyes.

Seamus moved over to her, stepping behind and wrapping his arms around her middle, so he could stoop down and whisper in her ear. ?Because ye made me realize I don' want t' miss out on everythin' like I did with Neona.?

Catalina leaned back against him for a moment, enjoying his arms around her and the tickle of his breath in her ear.

?I'm glad that you came to that conclusion, very glad.? Then she took another look around the kitchen. ?Did you happen to see any bread??

?'ow many slices?? He grinned and kissed the side of her face before he ambled over to the bread box.

?Four should do it for me.? She smiled and watched as he opened the box and scrounged for some bread slices before he ambled back over with four slices.

?'ere ye go!? He offered with a bright smile.

?Are you ready to go back out there?? She asked with a nod to the kitchen door once the bread had joined ham and cheese on the rather large plate.

?Ready if ye are!? He gave her another of his roguish smile before he moved toward the kitchen door, holding it open for her.

?Yes, I guess I'm ready. I wonder if this will fit on the counter.? She grinned back.

?Bah, tha's nae a worry. Th' bar can take it like a man.?

?And yet it's me carrying the plate. You are so getting the drinks.? Catalina moved out of the kitchen and out from behind the bar to set the plate on the counter in front of two empty stools. ?I'll wait right over here, Sir.?

?O' course I am, missus.? He playfully stuck his tongue out after her. ?Cold cider, aye??

?Please, three glasses, I think and one whiskey or I'll just drink yours.? She replied with a wink.

?'ow bout I jus' grab th' whole pitcher an' a glass so ye can refill as ye need?? He eyed her and then grabbed a large glass, filled it with ice and water, just to leave it on the bar for her/

?An excellent idea.? Catalina beamed a smile over to him as she picked up the water glass. Then she brought the glass to her lips and drained it gradually, not setting it down again until it was empty.

?a'right.? Seamus grabbed another glass for her cider, placing it on the bar next to the now empty glass, and then a rocks glass for his whiskey to set on the bar, as well. One hand curled around a bottle of whiskey, and he moved down the length of the bar to the cooler, just to open it and snatch the cider. With an Innocent whistle he rounded the bar quick as a flash, making his way back to Catey.

?I even kept a seat free for you.? Catalina grinned generously over to Seamus as she picked up a slice of ham to take a bite out of.

?Thank ye muchly, darlin'.? He stooped down to peck her cheek before he slipped upon the stool, the bottle and pitcher placed on the bar top. He poured her a glass of cider in the mean time, before he nodded in the direction of Ariana, who was just then padding over toward them. Then he whispered to Catey, ?Uh oh, 'ere comes trouble.?

Property

As much as Catalina dreaded going back to Val?s ranch, it wasn?t something she could avoid. She had to check in every so often and now she also needed to grab a few things. There was a ball to go to, and she was tired of wearing her leathers when there was really no call for them. She was relieved to find out that no Golden had come through the gate to bring word of a new mission and to take her back.

Then she headed for Ariana?s bakery and the promised tasting of baked good. Of course Ariana stuffed her again with all sorts of delicious flavors and textures. The scent of the mixed sweet flavors still clung to her when she arrived at Seamus? room in the late afternoon. To her surprise she found Seamus snuggled up under the sheets, sleeping.

Catalina walked over to see if she could wake him up with a kiss or two. Seamus was stirring before she even hit the bed; Ariana's bakery's scents could wake a person from the dead! She bent over him and brushed her lips against his.

?Mmm, cookies?? Seamus inquired sleepily, clearly looking up at her from one eye as he stretched. A chuckle and then his lips brushed against hers.

?Baklava cookies and me. Have you been sleeping all afternoon?? She kissed him again before he could reply; the answers could wait a bit longer.

?Mmm.? He responded into her mouth, chuckling again as he pulled away. ?Nae, nae all afternoon. I got up earlier t' go 'n' buy me some property.?

?Property?? That was big enough news to make her sit up; she looked to him in surprise.

?Mhmm. Beach front, too.? Seamus said with a proud nod and grinned sleepily again as he made an effort to sit up, propping himself up on his elbows. ?It b' far out, though??

?Congratulations Mr. Property Owner.? With those words came a congratulatory kiss that lingered. Catalina?s eyes twinkled when they pulled back again. ?What are you planning to do with it? I take it renting out beach chairs isn't quite you.?

?Why, thank ye muchly. I b' plannin' on tillin' th' lan' there, an' swimmin'.? Seamus wore a broad grin.

?Tilling and swimming.? Catalina beamed a smile in return, very happy for him. ?So it's a bit of farm land, not just beach. You're making your dreams come true.?

?That I am... An' maybe if ye are good, I'll let ye come over some time.? He gave her a roguish wink and a playful grin.

?What kind of good are you talking about? I am good at many things.? She flirted back with a slow wink. Of course he didn't have to be anything but himself. ?Perhaps it is you who needs to be good to tempt me all the way out there. Just how remote is it??

?I haven't decided yet.? He admitted, shrugging, and then waggled his brows at her mysteriously. ?Well... Ye know where th' Bloods are, aye?? At the blank look he received from her, he added, ?I don' know who or wha' they are, jus' know they live not too far away from me. A few miles pas', at th' en' o' th' road.?

?So it really is quite a bit of a walk from here.? She grinned to him ever so teasingly. ?No more carrying girls from the inn all the way to your bed then, Sir Knight.?

?Nae, nae, I s'pose not.? He pretended to sigh unhappily, looking up at her with puppy dog eyes. ?'tis a shame, aye??

?Mhm.? Catalina wrapped her arms around him again. ?I very much enjoyed getting carried around. That almost was worth having to deal with that idiot horse.?

?I'm glad ye enjoyed it. I can still do tha'... We can jus' get a room 'ere on nights we b' feelin' too lazy.? Seamus grinned down at her and placed a kiss on her crown.

?A room for when feeling too lazy sounds great. When would you like to show me your farm??
She tilted her face up, giving him a happy smile. She did need to hear that he wanted her there despite knowing that he was teasing before.

?One o' these days? I prepaid this room fer another month when I paid at arrival... An' th' ranch is empty as o' now. Wan' help me decorate?? He asked with a hopeful look.

?I would like to very much. I'm honored that you asked me to.? She smiled back, caught up in his excitement.

?Well, I'm sure ye 'ave more o' a feel fer decoratin' than me... girls normally do.? He said with a sage nod.

?I don't know, I never decorated anything before. One doesn't do much decorating with rooms at an inn or a room at court one gets to stay at for a night or two.? She had never stayed anywhere that she could remember that required any decorating skills of her.

?Fair point... I'm sure yer a natural.? Seamus winked as he leaned in to kiss her and she responded with gentle warmth and passion all at once. He fell back into the pillows with a chuckle, taking her with him.

?You need more food, or more kisses.? Catalina suggested with a sensuous smile. She liked the idea of more kisses more than food, Ariana having stuffed her with all sorts of baked goods earlier, perhaps in punishment for the starvation accusations last evening.

?Mm, tough choice.? He wound his arms around her, one hand on the back of her head as he leaned in to kiss her again, this time more deeply and passionate. Well, she had his answer.

Bucko

Catalina and Seamus walked into the inn hand in hand after an afternoon of shopping at the market place. The list of things Seamus needed to equip his new house seemed endless and fated to be forever incomplete.

?Well, tha' was exhaustin', was it not?? Seamus smiled down to Catalina as they headed for the bar, his face flushed from all the exercise they had that day.

?Yes, it was, but also very satisfying. By tomorrow evening you won't have to sleep on the floor and you won't have to use your shirt to dry your face.? Catalina grinned back. A rug of course was little better than the floor, but they didn?t have time yet to look at much furniture. ?And you'll have lots of your favorite colors to look at, too.?

?I suppose tha's good, aye?? He leaned in to kiss the top of her head and then gave her a cheeky grin as his eyes twinkled. ?Wha' would ye like t' drink, darlin'??

?If you're having Guinness I'll make do with some cider. And yes, that's a good thing, a very good thing. You could try to convince me otherwise though.? She smiled to him invitingly.

?I can do tha' for ye.? He gave her another cheeky smile as he broke away from her, shaking his head at her comment. He rounded the bar and snatched a glass as he opened the cooler. Catalina watched him as he rummaged around for the cider and poured a glass for Catey before he returned the container to the cooler, leaning against the counter. With his free hand, he plucked a bottle of Guinness before he shut the cooler again.

With the Guinness in one hand and the cider in the other, Seamus made his way back around the bar. Long strides brought him back to Catey in no time and he ambled upon the stool beside her as he passed the cider over.

?There ye are, darlin'.? He offered with a soft smile before he twisted the cap off of his beer. He tossed the cap onto the bar top unceremoniously as he took a swig.

?Thank you, darling.? Catalina accepted the glass with a warm smile, her fingers brushed against his in the process. She leaned against his chair between his legs before she brought the glass up to his bottle. ?Cheers, to furnishings, towels, and kitchen ware.?

?Self-serve, bucko.? Seamus informed a patron who was looking for a bar tender before he grinned to Catey and tipped his beer in toast before taking another swig. ?Cheers!?

?So when do you want to try out that kitchen?? Catalina asked when she set her glass down again with a wink to Seamus.

?Mm, don' really got any food jus' yet.? He chuckled as he lowered his beer.

?Getting some of that shouldn't be a huge problem.? Then she added with a cheeky wink. ?I may not have meant for cooking, though.?

?Ye are 'orrible, Catey.? Seamus chuckled and took another sip.

?I don't think 'horrible' was the word you were wanting to use here, Seamus.? Catalina shook her head with a soft chuckle.

?Ass.? The disgruntled patron shot over to Seamus before he jumped over the bar to find a beer.

?Maybe it wa'n't.? He replied to Catey with a mysterious smile.

?Some people...? Catalina frowned and glared at the rude patron. Seamus had merely been helpful by pointing that it was self serve just now. She shook her head and then turned to Seamus again with a smile. ?Just maybe it wasn't??

?Hmm. What else d' we need t' get?? Seamus grinned cheekily.

?What did I do.? The rude customer looked to Catalina with a sorry type of smile before he jumped over the bar again and took a seat.

?What room would you like to make use of next?? Then Catalina was temporarily distracted by the rude jumper. ?There's a break in the bar over there.? She pointed that out to him. ?And as to what you did that had you deserve my comment was the use of foul language where it was totally unwarranted.? Catalina turned to Seamus again, not really expecting further response from the dolt. ?Where were we? Oh right...what room to try and fill up next with at least the basic necessities.?

?Dinin' room? A table t' eat on? Th' livin' room?? Seamus shrugged. ?I mean, tha' about covers it, aye??

?A table would be good, maybe some chairs too, dishes to eat from and a cabinet to keep them in? Some candles for that candle light dinner you're going to prepare.? Catalina gave Seamus a roguish grin. ?I'm sure a decent sales person can give you a list of things you absolutely will need.?

?Hey how does this bar stay alfloat?? The rude man asked before he turned to Catalina again. ?The guy called me bucko, you call that rude.?

?I wont e'en ask.? Seamus snorted into his beer bottle and shook his head. Then he grinned to Catalina again and nodded. ?Oh, tha' candlelit dinner? When was I gonna be told abou' it??

?Not ask about what? And the candlelit dinner, well you were thinking of it and just forgot to mention it, so I thought I would.? Catalina grinned to Seamus over the rim of her glass before she took another drink from it. Being of the opinion that John had given any further reply she may have had himself, she didn't bother with one.

?Oh, how thoughtful of you.? Seamus gave her a roguish grin, sipping at his beer briefly. ?I s'pose I'll have t' get right on tha' one, aye??

?I can be very thoughtful. Catalina gave Seamus another cheeky wink. ?How soon you'll get on that depends entirely on how soon you want to have that candle lit dinner. The sooner the better I'm thinking, though.?

?Can I sit with you so I can learn your name?? The rude patron opened his bottle and looked to Catalina. When she didn?t respond he laughed and joked to Catalina. ?Please don't do this to me baby.? Then he turned and walked to the other end of the bar.

?Baby? Who are 'you' calling baby?? Catalina turned to the rude young?n again, getting rather angry at the guy. But she shook her head and clamped her mouth shut on the rest of her reply. She?d rather not have further interruptions of her conversation with Seamus.

?We are already goin' to th' ball tomorrow nigh', ye know.? Seamus eyes twinkled again. But the twinkle was gone when he turned to the young?n. ?Oi, tha's me gal ye are talkin' t', bub.? He really didn't want a fight.

?I am looking ever so forward to that ball too, even if it's without a candlelit dinner.? Her smile deepened visibly at the use of the possessive pronoun. Maybe that abrasive lout had its uses after all.

?You because of your guts.? The young?n walked back over to Catalina. ?But I actually like you in a f up way.?

?Of course I do have guts. And if you tempt me further you can have a taste of just how much.? Catalina issued the friendly warning, with a grin even, to the young?n. But her eyes shot daggers at him. If he would continue in that venue, she was perfectly willing to drag him out back.

A dark look was given to John by Seamus, wondering if this guy was either dense or maybe touched in the head. He instead opted to ignore him.

?So wha' time is th' ball at again?? Seamus smiled warmly to Catey.

?I was told it was to start at nine by the eastern clock.? Catalina smiled back.

?Tha's nae t' bad, then.? Seamus tipped his bottle back for another swig, and then frowned. ?I still need t' get a tux.?

?Aye, that you'll need, unless you really want to pull out that loin cloth again.? Catalina had another of those exceptionally cheeky winks for Seamus.

?I think ye'd like tha', Catey.? Seamus waggled his brows at her.

?Would I ever!? She chuckled. ?But I just might like it better if not everyone had a chance to ogle those sexy legs of yours.?

?Ye an' me legs, woman. Yer nuts!? He gave her roguish smile as he finished off his beer, setting the bottle on the bar top haphazardly. ?Need more cider, darlin'??

?I just might be in regards to you.? She winked to Seamus. ?Yes, please, another glass would be appreciated.?

Seamus smiled at Catey and shook his head at her comment and rested his hand on her thigh, squeezing lightly, before he turned to the tender that was on duty now to place his order for the both of them. When their drinks arrived and Catey had taken up her glass he blew a kiss to her before he picked up his fresh bottle for a swig.

Catalina, smiling wide, acted like that kiss nearly blew her over and she caught herself just barely by reaching for Seamus?s arm to hold onto with her free hand.

?Don' go fallin' on me, darlin'.? With a cheeky grin he asked. ?Need me t' carry ye upstairs??

?I just might if you keep this up.? Catalina laughed softly.

?Ye jus' wan' me t' carry ye.? Seamus chuckled and took another sip.

?I do love when you do that.? She admitted openly.

?I know ye do.? He waggled his brows from behind his mug, nodding upstairs with a wide, wicked grin. ?Mm, wan' t' go explorin'??

?You bet I do!? Catalina quickly drained her glass and set the empty glass on the counter. Then she wrapped both arms around Seamus?s neck and brushed her lips to his.

?Ready?? Seamus set down his half-full mug on the bar and then kissed her softly before her scooped her up.

?Yes.? Her eyes twinkled as she glanced into his sea-green ones.

?And away we go!? Seamus laughed as he made his way to the stairwell with her in his arms and then stomped up the stairs and a moment later disappeared with her into their room.

In The Wee Hours

Catalina came down the stairs for something to drink. The bar itself was a mess of spilled drinks, broken glass. She managed to avoid most of both as she slipped through the break and headed for the cooler.

Marek pushed in through the back door, waiting a moment as the large mastiff followed in behind him, sniffing about as his tail moved about. Then they both headed for the bar and a much needed drink. His eyes drifted behind it to find a bartender, they seemed rather dormant lately. The only one behind the bar just now was Catalina though, currently pouring a glass of cider for herself.

?Hello there.? She smiled as she spotted Marek standing there and after she had returned the cider jug to the cooler.

?Hoi.? Marek nodded to Catalina and moved behind the bar with the large dog in tow, searched for a clean tankard and then filled from a tapped' keg. ?Quiet night about??

?Not really. The rowdy crowd must have started coming in a little while ago.? It was that rowdy crowd that with their noise had kept her from sleep. Then she looked from Marek to the huge dog.

Marek nodded, and then found a bowl and filled it from the keg, placing the bowl on the floor behind the bar for the mastiff, which wasted little time moving over for it and started drinking as Marek lifted his tankard for a healthy drink.

?Does he have a name?? Catalina was still watching the huge dog.

Marek lowered his tankard, nodding down at the mastiff. ?That's Moose. He's harmless most of the time.? He gave Catalina a wink and lifted the tankard for another deep swallow or two.

?Hello Moose.? Then she grinned up to Marek. ?That is indeed a rather tame name for such a beast. Did you per chance bring me something??

?I did.? A soft nod of his head and he was fishing below his leather jacket, releasing a small pack and settling it on the bar. ?Cleaning kit, with the as mentioned instructions and a few pictures too to help.? He reached down then with his free hand to run his fingers over the dog's back and then a good pat before he took another sip.

?Thank you very much.? She picked up the pack with her free hand, not trusting the rowdy ones to keep from soaking her newest acquisition and beamed a smile up to Marek. ?I was hoping you'd show me the first time... do you have time now? I've the gun upstairs, I'd just have to run up there and fetch it.?

?I'll meet you over there after you get it then?? Marek nodded over at a table, away from the floor show currently underway.

?That sounds great. Would you mind taking my glass over there with you, oh, and this?? She offered him the cider glass she was holding and the package he had just given her.

?Sure thing.? Marek took both, shifting his tankard between his chest and an arm. He glanced over at the noise, and then moved with all the goods, Moose in tow, having drunk the bowl rather dry by now.

?Thank you.? Catalina turned to run upstairs to fetch the gun that was in desperate need of cleaning after all the practicing she had done. She was quick about it, too, taking the stairs two at a time.

Marek ushered a chair out with his leg and then lowered into it, settling his tankard, the pack and the cider down onto the table while the large mastiff settled down beside him on the flooring, tail lightly moving. Marek lifted his tankard from the table and glanced over at the light show. It reminded him of a mage or two back home and he had has to smirk a little.

The gun was right where Catalina had left it, in her pack, along with the now empty pouch that had held the bullets and all the other things she thought she might need while in town. She grabbed it up, holster and all, and hurried back downstairs with it, and over to the table Marek had picked out, far away from the current commotion. Slightly out of breath she pulled out a chair and sat the weapon the table before she slid into the chair with a smile.

He smiled and nodded over at Catalina before he settled his tankard back down to the table and reached over for the weapon. He removed it from the holster with one hand while the other opened the small pack with the cleaning kit inside.

?Best to clean it once a week, unless you're going through some dirty traveling then you might want to clean every other day or every night depending.?

?The traveling so far was rather clean, it didn't even rain. But I did use up all the bullets for practice. Which reminds me, I should have some more.? She was also getting efficient with the use of the weapon, which had her smile. She grabbed up the cider glass and had a long drink from it before she set it back down. Then watched closely what Marek was doing.

?I can get you some more in a day or so.? Marek nodded gently across the table and then took a tiny screw driver out of the cleaning kit and started on the cut down rifle. He stripped it slowly, allowing her to see each piece as it was removed and set down on the table.

?With practice, you'll be able to break it down and then back together again in a few minutes.? He took out some cloth and a few long metal-like sticks.

?It looks like that requires more practice than the shooting itself.? Catalina mused out loud as she watched. ?In a couple of days should be good.? Or so she hoped. ?How many coins should I bring??

?A bit more, yeah, but no worries now. You'll get the hang of it soon enough once you've done for a couple weeks or so.? Marek glanced up before he returned to his cleaning of the cut down rifle. Taking the cloth and attaching to one of the thin metal sticks, the removed short barrel of the rifle was picked up and the cloth slid through with aid of the metal stick. ?Just run it through, I'm not using the cleaning gel but it's in the kit here. Just showing you how it's done. Of course, make sure it's empty.?

?Make sure it's empty, take it apart just like you did, put gel on the cloth, and poke the sticks into it with the cloth until the tube is clean.? Catalina repeated, never taking her eyes of Marek?s hands and the pieces of the gun. ?And then, I guess, put it back together right. How much of the gel do I use??

?Don't worry about the coins for now... Heh, and yeah, it's not too hard to clean a weapon, just need to remember how to do it is all.? He assembled a piece here and there. ?Just a little dab on the cloth. There's another cleaning solution to use on the outside, on the wood here along the sides of the barrel and the back on the stock.? He touched each to indicate for her what he was talking about as he re-attached another piece. ?That maybe only needs doing once a week or so, to help protect the wood finish.? He connected another piece gently and screwed it on.

?You are making that look easy.? Catalina continued to watch closely, committing the steps to memory. She resolved to not stop practicing until she could get that done as quickly as Marek had just demonstrated.

?I know, sorry, but been handling weapons for quite a few years now. Know my way around them. So it looks easy from watching me, your first time or two, or three might be a little hard. No worries though.? He nodded and shot a smile her way. The gun in one piece again, he gave the lever below the cut down rifle a swing and cocked it. A ?ping? was let off as he pulled the trigger and nothing happened. ?Always make sure your guns are empty kids before trying this.?

?That's very good advice.? Catalina smiled to Marek again with warmth and appreciation. ?Thank you ever so much. I very much appreciate all your help and your time, Marek. I believe that everything will turn out to be invaluable in short order.?

?Just takes time to learn is all.? Marek eased the rifle back within the large leather holster before he slipped the thin metal rods and the cloth as well as the tiny screw drivers away into the pack. ?Like using a bow or fishing decently. Everything takes practice.? He nodded with a smile. A hand now moved down to run over the mastiff's big noggin for a scratch. ?Besides, I still believe the best advertising is through people.?

?I've really no idea of how to catch a fish. Grouse and rabbits usually make the meals. And Ariana's baked good probably make for better bait than pop corn.? The reference to their first meeting made her chuckle and wink. Then she nodded. ?I'll be sure to send folk asking me about the gun to you.?

?Plenty of gun variants to sell.? Marek winked and nodded before her reached for his tankard and lifted it to take a drink.

?I'm sure there are.? Catalina lifted her glass again, too, and finished off the cider.

?Well, I've got some rest to find before the light comes up over the horizon.? Marek settled the empty tankard on the table and moved to stand, giving Catalina another smile. The mastiff rose with a shake of his coat and moved to stand beside him. ?Catch you about??

?The fates willing.? Catalina smiled back with a nod as she stood as well. ?Good night and sweet dreams. To you too, Moose.?

A pat to the large dog's head and a wink to Catalina, from Marek, not from Moose of course and he moved for the back door of the place, dog in tow. Catalina reached for the gun and the cleaning kit. She'd take both upstairs and start on that practice right away. Rest would wait until she was satisfied that she'd at least not forget any of the steps.

Catalina woke at first light and immediately checked upon Seamus. Careful not to disturb his rest she slid from his arm. Then she studied his wounds or what of them she could inspect without disrobing or washing him. The moon and stars had not provided much in the way of light to see by to get a clear picture of all his injuries. She nearly gasped out loud when it became clear to her just how many scrapes and gashes he had collected and she wondered just what he had come across.

Seamus groaned, blinking himself awake as he felt Catey slip away. He'd almost forgotten where he was. Blearily, he watched her examine him.

?Mornin'.? He offered in a gruff voice.

"Aye, sweetie, morning it is." She turned her head to smile to him, but the effect of her recent discoveries was still very much etched into her features. She reached into her jacket and pulled out the water flask and unscrewed it before handing it to him. ?Do you need something wet??

?Mmm, I could do wit' some o' y-- Water is perfect, thank ye muchly, darlin'.? He opened his mouth to get some, trying to figure out what to tell her.

"How's that leg feeling this morning?" She would make that her first priority. Once he could stand up the 'rescue' would be that much easier.

?Mmm, numb.? He chuckled.

"I guess that's better than hurting. Do you think you could try to stand up on it?" Catalina gave him a hopeful look. "We should probably get you to some place with food."

?Mm, I can try.? He nodded at her and moved to try and raise himself up with his good arm and Catalina?s help.

"Careful, though. I don't trust my healing skills." She warned.

?I trust 'em enough, more 'en wha' I'm used t' gettin'.? He chuckled again as he leaned heavily onto her, trying to stand on his good leg. He winced at the movement. ?Ugh, this sucks.?

?So far so good, now to make use of that other leg... Once you're out of this ditch you'll have to tell me how you got this messed up." She kept looking at him to see how putting any kind of weight on the other leg might effect him.

Seamus frowned, not sure if he should use his other leg, but he did try to step on it, wincing some more. ?Bloody 'ell??

?Well, since you're up, how about you lean against the wall here while I see if I can get that leg to work for you?? She'd not get around more healing. She sighed and searched her jacket again and came up with a bag of dried pieces of fruit and handed it to him. ?Have some of these so you won't get too bored.?

?Okay?? He did as she instructed, frowning and watching her as though he was scared he'd wear her out again. That she'd overdo it was certainly possible, likely even, because she looked determined to get him to where he could walk. He grabbed the bag then and idly started munching on the dried fruit. ?Thank ye muchly.?

?You're welcome.? Catalina smiled up to him and attempted to appear confident before she took a knee in front of him. He gave a cheeky grin, looking down to watch her from his awkward lean against the wall of the ditch. She placed her hands on his thigh to either side of the partially healed broken bone. Her face took on an expression of utter concentration as she collected whatever healing energy she could come up with and directed it through jeans, skin and flesh into the break.

Seamus inhaled loudly, munching on the last bit of dried fruit. Catalina didn't stop until she felt slightly faint and even then she hoped that what she had managed was going to be enough. The warmth and tingling of the healing had dissipated long before she spoke again.

?How's that?? She asked at length, her eyes still closed.

?Like new.? Seamus grinned cheekily at her, but a darkness sin his eyes showed that he was concerned for her health, or would have had she looked up. ?Are ye alrigh' darlin'??

?Mhm, nothing that some sleep and food won't fix.? She had heard worry in his voice and opened her eyes then and grinned up. But she waited another minute or so before she removed her hands from his leg and carefully stood up.

?Mm, wan' t' get back t' th' inn an' pick up some food before goin' back up t' th' room t' get some sleep?? He asked with a smile. She did look as if she hadn't slept in days.

?Is it really like new?? She gave Seamus a hopeful look. ?So long as it'll do for a bit of walking, I'll be happy.?

?I think I'll be able t' limp around an' all. It feels almost like I hadn't even broken it.? He assured her.

?Aye, food first, then get you cleaned up and then sleep.? There was no way she'd sleep before he was taken care of. ?That's good enough for at least trying to get you out of here and onto the road.?

?Sounds good.? He nodded. Catalina moved over to a part of the ditch with less steep walls and climbed up. Once she was out of the ditch she turned around and held out a hand to him. He took her hand with his good one, feet moving to push him out.

?How was that?? She asked, studying him carefully. The hardest part was over. ?Once we get to a main street we can hail a carriage to take us the rest of the way.?

?It wasn't... too bad.? He nodded, breathing heavy. ?Just a real... work out.?

?We sure make a fine pair.? She chuckled, more than a little relieved that they had made it that far and that his leg really seemed to be okay to walk on.

?One o' us is always injured.? Seamus chuckled and nodded.

?You shouldn't be saying that, or it may actually happen that way. Being injured like that back home one wouldn't see daylight again.? She kept his hand in hers and started to lead the way back toward the busier parts of town. ?So, what happened to get you all the way out here and into such a sorry state??

?It only b' Rhydin.? Seamus grinned. He coughed at her question and then shrugged nonchalantly, avoiding her gaze skillfully ?I on'y got into a bit o' a scuffle.?

?Right, a bit of a shuffle, but with what?? She, however, wasn't looking anywhere but at him.

?A very, very big dog.? He replied with a sheepish grin.

?And what did you do to rile that puppy so?? She had no reason not to believe him, but that he was trying to hide something was obvious to her.

?Mm... I barked at 'im.? Which wasn't a total lie. The other wolf started it!

"You can bark?" She grinned up to him, teasingly. "That must have been quite a bark. And whatever for did you do that?"

?'e was growlin' an' threatenin' me, so I barked at 'im as a warning t' leave me alone.?

?I guess walking away wasn't an option?? They had made it back to a street with some traffic, and Catalina now looked around for a carriage they might hail.

?Mm, I tried an' got attacked? Turned out there was more 'an only one.? He coughed again and turned to aid her search for a carriage.

?Don't stop now, darling. We're getting somewhere here. So it was several really big dogs.? She did spot a carriage and waved it down.

?Yes, yes it was??

Catalina shook her head at him and then moved to the halted carriage to open the door for him.

?Very unfair fight.? Seamus nodded sagely before he awkwardly made his way into the carriage.

?To the Red Dragon, please.? She instructed the driver before she followed Seamus into the carriage, closing the door behind her. She had barely sat down when the carriage took off. ?It must have been, one against many is rarely fair.?

?You know, Seamus, that's the second time you went out on a job and ended up getting hurt.? She remarked seemingly idly after he had merely nodded to her previous statement.

?Mm, yes... I know.? He was frowned. ?I'm beginnin' t' think I need t' retire.? He turned to her with a cheeky grin. ?Ye will make enough money for us both, eh??

?Right, retire from picking fights with stray dogs.? She gave him a teasing wink. She didn't really know what to make of him speaking of 'us both?, so she avoided responding directly to that comment. ?How much can one make doing that anyway??

?A lot, trus' me. I'll b' buying th' rest o' me house stuff.? Seamus grinned at her.

?I could probably buy a little house and stick some furniture into it.?

?Ye are 'ere often enough.? Seamus gave her a sage nod, glancing at the inn as it seemed to grow as they approached it.

?I did say I'd do some of the shopping for you.? She had a few things in mind that she wanted to get for him as soon as she found a chance to go shopping on her own.

The carriage stopped at the inn and it was time for them to get out and make it up the stairs inside. That was going to be difficult. He winced a bit as he tumbled out of the carriage and then limped up the porch steps beside her.

?It would b' much appreciated.? A smile was on his lips as she looked at Catey.

?It's not like you'll be enjoying shopping trips anytime soon.? She smiled back to him. Today at least, neither would she. She needed sleep more than anything, but she also had her mind set on some warm food and on a warm bath for Seamus first, that and a few of those kisses she didn't get from him or give him over the last few days. ?We can order room service this once.?

?Yes, we can.? He laughed, nodding.

?Well then?? Lox started after he had led Catalina a bit away from the Outback and scanned the area to make sure there were no unwanted eyes and ears, all business now. ?What?s with that useless list of contacts, a ?watcher?, and a trap layer??

?Just what I wrote in the report. I haven?t found out anything else.? Catalina never included speculation or suspicion in her reports. And those that Dax had associated with in Rhydin and she had found out anything definite about were either just conquests or currently useless contacts. The trap layer that had found her, had turned out to be far more interesting.

?You eliminated every contact but two from the list you put together.? Lox made that sound like a compliment. He was in fact impressed with the amount of information Catey had managed to put together in just about a month. ?Tell me about the assassination attempt.?

?There really isn?t much to tell. It was the wrong kind of trap, in the wrong kind of area. It was rather obvious that it wasn?t set to catch big game. The workers investigated and by the time they caught up with him he was quite dead and beyond questioning. When I was able to do so, I was only able to find dead ends. The woman that supposedly hired him doesn?t exist.? Catalina suspected that Lox was reading her thoughts, snapping up details she didn?t mention. Accordingly she remembered in as much detail what the farm hands had told her about how they had found the trapper, the incidents in which she had felt watched, how she had found Dax?s old contacts, and what made her eliminate each as the possible schemer.

?You definitely spooked someone.? Lox looked serious and perhaps even concerned. ?Tell me what besides names you found out about Jane Bloomsworth and Carla Silverdale.?

?Nothing really, seemingly just girls Dax spent some nights with. Carla?s still around and definitely from Dragon?s Eye. She has a string of rich boy friends, none in the least connectible, and has been selling bits of jewelry and gems here and there. On Jane I found absolutely no trace for about the lat 18 months. She seems to have arrived in Rhydin about a couple years ago, worked as a grounds keeper at the cemetery, and left again while Dax fetched Benjamin and me to the ranch. The only time she spent more money than she should have was just after Dax visited her. I can?t link the rumors about Val being shot having anything to do with politics at home to either of them, though.?

?Ever one to collect conquests, Dax was, with or without Benjamin?s assistance.? Lox smirked and shook his head, but then turned serious and thoughtful again.

That expression told Catalina why Lox had been sent rather than anyone else. Something in the last report she had sent back must have been of value, and Lox could make a decision in their stead. At length Lox focused on Catalina again.

?We know what happened to Dax when he spooked someone, and incompetent assassin or just a friendly warning; you?re not investigating this any further.? Lox pulled out the leather wrapped packet again and handed it to Catalina. ?It?s time for someone else to take over.?

?When - ?? She paled as Lox terminated her current mission and hoped that the portal would not open again anytime soon and that she would have enough time to say good bye to Seamus. If Lox was taking over another dragon would be sent to take her back. Of course, no amount of time would be quite enough.

?I?m leaving in the morning.? Lox shook his head when he noticed Catalina?s expression. She looked like she had just been sentenced to death. ?You?ll stay for now.?

?For now?? Catalina asked with a flicker of hope.

?Yes, for now.? Lox nodded to the leather bound packet. ?You?ll find a letter of deposit in there. Use it to hire an investigator or two. We trust you to decide how much to tell whoever you find to hire.? He winked then. ?Just don?t hire a Golden. If they find out something, so much the better.
But mainly we want to ?unspook? whoever you spooked, and have you appear non-threatening. So let whoever you find to hire do the snooping around. You find something else to do. I don?t want to come back here to find out that you managed to get yourself eliminated.?

?Right, I wouldn?t want to inconvenience you.? Catalina grinned. Dealing with an investigator or two would give her a few weeks and perhaps a little longer than that before she had to expect a new mission. She wouldn?t even have to find a very good one.

?It would be more than just an inconvenience, Catey.? Lox shook his head. ?Dax found something important, but like you he didn?t include rumors in his reports, when he bothered to report anything back at all. Which is why I am here. And we both know what happened to Dax.?

?And, did you find anything of interest?? Catalina wanted to know which rumors he thought were more interesting than others. They didn?t know what exactly happened to Dax, only that he was gone and that he and Benjamin had disappeared in the middle of a battle.

?We know the shooting of Val was not because of political scheming. But someone wanted or wants Val to believe otherwise. I want to know what those rumors were that Dax disregarded. So, you make sure to tell whomever you hire that you want the mere rumors reported, too.?

?I can do that.? Catalina nodded. ?Do you think then that there may be something to it that Dax and Benjamin went behind the lines??

?No.? Every fiber in Lox protested that possibility. They?ve both been to the Valley of Bones many times and they always had come back in short order. With a small shake of his head he changed the subject. ?I will be back in three weeks. Do you need a lift back to the Ranch??

?Three weeks? I?ll see what I can find out in that time.? That was not a lot of time, but it was preferable to leaving in the morning. ?Thanks for offering, but I?ll stay in town tonight if you don?t mind.?

?Not at all.? Lox did finally crack a smile again. He had read a few more of her thoughts than he knew she was comfortable with. ?Keep up what you?ve been doing to stay in shape and good job so far, Catey.? With a wink he added, ?I?ll see what I can do to get that body guard paid.?

Before Catalina could reply to his parting remark Lox had taken off, shifting form as he went. She thought it was rather nice of him to abstain from remarks in regard to Seamus and to offer to organize some kind of payment for Marek. She tucked the leather bound packet into her jacket to read later.

Seamus Recovers

?You may whine all you like. I'm sure I'll remember most of it to use at some inopportune time Catalina grinned and gave Seamus a teasing wink. ?And down we go...we may even make it before the sun comes up and they're all out of Guinness.?

?Nae! Me Guinness can't run out! Tha's blasphemous...? Seamus gasped and frowned as they began descending the stairwell.

?They might.? It was the best incentive she could come up with just now to tempt Seamus down the stairs. He needed the exercise.

?Tha's like th' end o' th' world.? He pouted and winced slightly as they continued on their downward quest.

"The possibility does seem to make you manage those stairs rather well, though.? Catalina glanced over to the bar, and though there were people sitting at the bar, there seemed to be no one behind the bar. ?Shall we celebrate at a table??

?Yeah, yeah I think I like tha' idea... I don' know how comfortable a stool will be.? He frowned again. Catalina escorted him over to one of the tables and pulled out two chairs for him.

?This should be more comfortable... you can put up that leg if you feel like it.? She was happy that he had made it that far and ready to reward him for having gone through with the exercise.

?Thank ye much darlin'.? He grinned and blew her blowing a kiss as he fell into one of the chairs, carefully, raising his leg to rest it on the other chair.

?I'll be right back. Don't go anywhere.? Catalina leaned down to him to brush her lips against his. She winked to him before she turned to head to the bar and behind it to fetch some drinks.

?Kinda hard t'!? He laughed heartily at her, grinning wolfishly after brushing his lips against hers.

Catalina reached a Guinness out of the cooler, opened the bottle and found a tankard to pour it into. Then she found a glass, filled it with ice, and a bottle of whiskey. She grabbed up everything, and then saw a bowl of pretzels and grabbed that up to bring along, too. Another moment later she was back at the table, setting down all her treasures.

?There you go, sweetie. Thanks for staying put.? She winked to him and then sat down next to him, splashing whiskey from the bottle over the ice in her glass.

?Mmm, food too!? He grinned like a child on Christmas. ?Not like I had much choice, honey?? His Guinness was lifted for a very deep drink.

?Someone could have come by and carried you off.? She grinned and raised her glass. ?Or the smell of baked lemons may have tempted you away.? Catalina took a drink and then paused. ?I'll have to stop by the ranch tomorrow before they send a search party.?

?Tha's true. I do like lemon bars.? He grinned over the rim of his tankard. The he blinked. ?Why? Are ye late??

?I'm supposed to check in every so often.? Then she drained her glass and refilled it promptly from the bottle. She wasn?t late and Lox had come into town to find her. She looked to him with some concern. It wasn't so much for his current injuries, but that he may use the opportunity to find more trouble. ?Will you be all right on your own??

?Oh? Ye haven't been slacking because o' me, have ye?? He nodded at her question, innocent grin. ?I'll stay outta trouble, love.?

Catalina blinked at him several times in complete surprise. There was that word, the one with so much meaning attached and consequences, the one she avoided. Then she raised her glass for a few more long swallows. She sat the glass down again and looked to him again.

?Uhmm, would you mind repeating that, please??

?I said I'll stay outta trouble?? He repeated slowly, looking rather confused.

?Right, that's what you said.? She grinned, still looking rather stunned and to her surprise not as relieved as she thought she should be that he didn?t repeat the L-word. ?Is that a promise? And no, I've not been slacking; I just put off going to the Ranch.?

?I promise.? He crossed his heart, smiling broadly. ?I will stick to buying me furniture, promise. An' why have ye been holdin' off??

?Thank you. I'll be holding you to that promise, too.? She gave him a warm smile. ?I've been holding off because first you had to be rescued and then I couldn't just leave you to waste away, to make the searching and healing a useless effort.? She winked.

It wa'n't useless, now was it?? Seamus grinned, waggling his brows suggestively.?

?No, I think you may live.? She chuckled softly. ?Giving me a reason to come back.?

?You were thinking about not coming back?? He looked hurt, lowering his tankard. She placed a hand on his arm.

?Seamus, before I met you, I was hoping for a Golden to show up to take me back sooner rather than later. And if not for you, there'd be little to make me want to come back.? Of course, if Marek really tagged along, she?d at least have to bring him back.

?I'm glad I make ye wan' t' stay.? He looked at her intently.

?Want to stay and want to come back.? She returned his look, completely serious. Her 'wanting to' may not make all that much of a difference.

?That is good.? He smiled from behind his tankard, lifting it for another drink.

?I hope so.? Catalina nodded and brought her glass up again for another drink before she settled it back to the table. Then she picked a pretzel from the bowl and brought it to his lips.

Seamus opened his mouth, drawing the pretzel in and munching softly. ?Mhmm. Fank ye muchly.?

?You're welcome.? She grinned to him and as idly as she could make it sound advised, ?Should you ever miss me, you might want to look at the Ranch first.?

?The Ranch first, then some ditches?? He chuckled, guzzling some of his Guinness.

?Aye.? She chuckled with him. ?Or some traps... But they could tell you if someone came to fetch me back and when to expect me back.?

?Oh, okay... Tha's good t' know.? He nodded and lowered his emptied tankard.

?Would you like another pretzel?? Catalina offered, looking to him.

?Please?? Seamus nodded eagerly, opening his mouth. She promptly picked up another pretzel and delivered it to between his lips. He took it into his teeth, kissing at her fingertips, and grinned.

?You do look better by the minute, too.? She grinned back. After he had chewed and swallowed and before he could lift up his tankard again, she leaned in to brush her lips against his again.

?Mm, thinkin' wha' I b' thinkin'?? He gave her a wolfish grin and then eyeballed the ceiling.

?I might be. We could take the pretzels with us for later. Of course there are those stairs between here and there. You just might pass out.? She teased with another wink.

?Not for tha'.? Seamus grinned as he rose and picked up the pretzels. Catalina picked up the whiskey bottle, leaving the glass behind, and snaked an arm around behind him. He leaned down to brush his lips against hers. Then they moved to the stairwell and stalked up them.

?They do seem to be out tonight.? Catalina grinned to Ariana as Marek greeted them with a nod on his way behind the bar. Marek glanced over the kegs behind the bar before he decided on one and filled the tankard he had snatched up. He took a sip and then topped off the tankard before he took up a lean against the back bar. Catalina turned a smile to him then. ?Good evening there, handsome.?

?It seems I'm not the only one happy to see that particular rogue.? Catalina nodded toward the woman that stood at the bar and was staring at Marek for Ariana?s benefit.

?Mhm, looks that way. Bet the line goes clean around a city block.? Ariana chuckled.

?Evening...? Marek glanced over to Ariana and Catalina and gave a nod down their way. Then he quirked a brow at the woman staring at him.

?Did you happen to bring me anything, Marek?? Catalina asked with a friendly grin, referring to the bullets he promised her.

?Not tonight, left my case back at a place staying in town.? Marek nodded over at Catalina after another glance over to the seemingly curious woman that now was sitting on a stool. ?Just myself and I tonight I'm afraid.?

?Next time then perhaps.? Catalina grinned. ?I may have another week or three before I will have worthy recipients for them.?

?No worries then.? Marek cast a wink Catalina's way and then he looked dead on over the counter at the woman that was once again staring at him. ?I got something in my teeth, or are you just enjoying the view??

?My guess is she's enjoying the view, you rogue.? Ariana commented before she turned to treat yet another family member.

?You could put some of Ariana's baklava in between your teeth.? Catalina suggested with a grin. ?And aye, it is quite a view.?

"It's not a view I would be enjoying." The woman looked to Marek with a fierceness in her eyes, her voice was calm and clear, though.

?You haven't seen me in the candle light of your bed. But if you don't like the view... then all you have to do is turn your head, doll.? Marek glanced over at Ariana and Catalina at their teasing with a smirk. He lifted his tankard for a sip before he looked to the woman again.

?What a tempting image.? Catalina picked her cup of rained in coffee for a drink or two. Then she winked to Marek. ?That almost makes me look forward to strolling over the battle fields.?

?Hmm, if I didn't know better, I'd swear he was my son Padi. Oi, wot a charmer he is.? Ariana agreed with a grin.

"My apologies. I didn't mean to stare, I'm sorry if I've offended you." The woman?s reply sounded controlled. ?You look... strikingly similar to an individual I had the displeasure of meeting. It threw me off guard."

Marek glanced over at Ariana and Catalina again, a smirk held for the moment until he looked back at the woman again. ?You didn't offend me, doll face. No worries.? Then he lifted the tankard again for another drink. The woman then moved away from the bar to sit at one of the tables.

?I should pack a candle.? Catalina grinned when Ariana suggested that many would be better, she turned to Marek with a wink. ?Only so much will fit into a pack. You could bring candles. They were your idea to start with? If you're still interested in a dragon ride and that body guard position, that is.?

?I could make a care package of baklava and lemon bars.? Ariana offered dryly.

?That is an excellent idea, Ariana.? Catalina smiled to her. It would be nice to have a taste from Rhydin along to enjoy the first day or two.

?Um, no.? Marek quirked a brow. ?I try to stick clear of dragons, thanks, but no thanks. Seen what they can do to a jet liner over the big A.?

?Then never get my husband angry at you.? Ariana winked at Marek.

?Quit asking me out then.? Marek nodded to Ariana, a smirk hid behind a drink from his tankard.

?Are you taking back that offer then?? Catalina blinked with surprise.

?To ride a dragon?? Marek lowered the tankard with a lifting brow at Catalina. ?I never said anything to that.?

?It's quite the only way back and forth between Dragon's Eye and here. Why do you think the place is called Dragon's Eye?? She had mentioned the Goldens before, hadn?t she?

?You never said anything about a dragon. A bit on the unfriendly side usually, where I come from. Except for one I can think of that was President? but he was assassinated.? Marek was thoughtful for a moment. Then he shrugged against the leather jacket. ?I don't know... just 'cause it's in the name don't mean any are about. Could just mean the place has a dragon's eye in a temple or in some museum.?

?I guess I shouldn't tell you then that this place is rather overrun by them, and that the enemy is the kind that thinks humanoids are cattle, besides them being necromancers.? Marek changing his mind about coming along was bad news for Catalina, very bad news.

?You might want to avoid that place sounds like in the future, doll face. Don't sound too friendly at all and rather the spot to get set up for the morgue.? Marek lifted his tankard for a sip.

?Excuse me, please.? Ariana set her mug down on the bar and rose from her stool. Then she padded barefoot toward her granddaughter and the boy with her.

?Alas, I don't really have a choice.? Catalina replied to Marek after a nod to Ariana.

?Sounds like a good way to end this life, heading right into where a bunch of dragons are.? Marek?s gaze followed Ariana, taking in the view as she moved away, before he nodded back at Catalina.

Catalina looked to Marek for long moments before she answered. ?Not the best way, to be sure, but yes.?

?You need a new line of work.? Marek lifted his tankard again for another sip.

?I really thought you understood all that when I talked to you about getting a gun. Then again, I managed the last six years with bow and arrow and a knife.? Catalina gave a little shrug. She had counted on him being along the first time she?d field test that new weapon. When Marek nodded to her over his tankard she asked, ?Perhaps I should give you a little history of the place so you can make up your mind??

Marek nodded and took another sip from his tankard. Catalina fortified herself with a drink from her mug and a deep breath before she started reciting from Dragon?s Eye?s history.

?1200 years ago, and previous for 10000 years, dragons feasted on humans, dwarves, elves, anything really. The land of Dragon's Eye was a dragon haven. The dessert of bones was generated by the pickings that dragons would find in other worlds. Many dragons used their prey as slaves. Thus many different mixes of creatures inhabit the land. Not to mention that the scores of treasure, hoarded by the dragons of these lands brought many other venturing types to steal those treasures.?

Marek quirked a brow at Catalina as he listened.

?The day of freedom was the day that the dragon Valiance Demure became ruler of Dragon's Eye 1200 years ago declaring it a crime to enslave other creatures or to treat them like cattle, or moose, which are now adequate in population to feed the humanoid races like human dwarf, elf, giant, etc. and dragons alike.? Catalina had to pause for a breath.

?The day of freedom brought contention between Val and one other of extreme power, for a time. But for over 700 years, one of the most powerful rivals of Val, one thought to have been dead, built an army of undead to control the dessert of bones and to destroy those within the land so that he and his kind could return to the slavery they once knew, and the free right to feed on anything. That one has an exceptional taste for children.? Finished with recounting the history of Dragon's Eye as she knew it, she focused on Marek again.

?Hm... sounds like a messy place to vacation at.? Marek?s brow was still arched at Catalina.

?I don't think you could book a tour there.? Catalina grinned at his comment and then finished off the fortified coffee. She turned questioning eyes to Marek again as she settled the empty cup to the counter. ?Some of the dragons are useful to have around.?

?Some, perhaps.? Marek allowed with a slight nod of his head.

?Are you thinking it over then??

?I'll think on it. Not too sure I want to travel among dragons.? Marek nodded after he shook his head to clear a few thoughts.

?I understand. In the meantime, while you're back there, would you mind getting me glass and some whiskey?? Catalina nodded, not holding much hope. She would have to re-think her strategy for her next mission.

Marek nodded and pushed from his lean behind the bar. Taking up a glass and bottle, he removed the cap and filled it half way before he slid it down the bar toward her and recapped the bottle in turn.

?Thank you.? Catalina gave Marek a smile before she picked up the glass for a drink. He nodded and moved to take up a lean again, but not before he refilled his tankard nearly to the brim, of course.

?Good evening, Collie. How have you been?? Catalina greeted her with a friendly smile, putting aside all thoughts of Dragon?s Eye for the moment. Collie had arrived some time earlier, and now Ariana returned to her seat by the bar with her.

?Evening, Catey!? Collie smiled back. ?I've been well and busy. I've been running after my children. They range in from four up, then there's grandchildren.?

?I've got a walk to take; I'll be back later or tomorrow... walk softly.? Marek lightly pushed from his lean against the bar with a nod to Catalina.

?Until then, Marek.? Catalina returned the nod. She would ask him again when she saw him next if he could resign himself to spending some time in the company of a dragon.

?Take care, you rogue.? Ariana winked to Marek before he slipped away from the growing crowd and to the back door. Then she turned to Collie again. ?Mhm, lovely ones I can spoil as well.?

?Aye... lots to spoil.? Collie agreed. She and Ariana then agreed that between them they could claim half of Rhydin?s population as family. ?Ariana and I are related through the children of my first marriage. That gives her spoiling rights over one of my girl's children, but she's spoiling all the grandchildren!?

?Sid and hers are mine, by heart choice.? Ariana turned back to Collie. ?All little ones are mine to spoil.?

?Well, I know who to go to and pester with questions should Seamus ever have any.? Catalina grinned to them both. ?I'm sure there are enough to go around to spoil.?

They were joined by another of Ariana?s extended family members then, this one quite obviously a dragon, nearly as shameless a flirt as most all of the dragons were that Catalina had met. Catalina commented here and there as their conversation shifted from children to parties and costumes, but her mind kept drifting.

Ariana laughing merrily and too much so to finish a sentence some time late tore Catalina from her thoughts and fully grabbed her attention.

?Oi. That gives new meaning to...? Ariana laughed even harder. ?Deflowering,? she got out between chuckles.

?Shameless!? Collie scolded as Catalina merely blinked in surprise from one to the other. At Catalina?s look she gave a girlish giggle. ?I'm not the mentioned deflowering.?

?You all mentioned wearing flowers, so... ? Ariana grinned unrepentant.

?I didn't.? Catalina pointed out.

?Because Seamus isn't about.? Ariana grinned at Catey.

Tea with Lang

People that didn't go through significant trouble of not getting found were no problem to track down, at least not for Catalina. It didn't even take any bribes to find out that Lang would be at the Teas'n Tomes just now. So that was where Catalina headed. When she entered the shop Lang, who had just picked up something to drink at the counter, moved to one of the tables.

He took a sip of his drink as he spotted Catey. He chuckled to himself before he nodded lightly to her.

?We have a habit of running into each other.?

?Do we?? She grinned and came over, not even bothering to stop at the counter to get something to drink. ?A good evening to you, Lang.?

?Yes.? He gestured to one of the chairs at the table. ?Good evening, Catey.?

?Thank you.? She smiled and sat down in the offered chair. So far this had been easy.

?Welcome.? He motioned for the tender to get Catey a drink. ?So, what brings you after me of all people??

?Am I that obvious?? She grinned. Sometimes being obvious had its advantages and was done on purpose. ?Mostly our conversation the other evening at the Outback.?

?No, but normally no one seeks me out around here, unless they really know me or they need help.? He nodded to the tender then and paid for Catey?s tea.

?Thank you. Well, I guess one meeting and a few nods across the inn are not enough for really knowing anyone. That leaves me needing some help, which I think you may actually be better suited to provide than the fashionable detective.? Anyway, Lox had told her to hire two detectives. Lang wasn?t so much a detective, though, but a bounty hunter.

?Welcome.? He then nodded softly to her asking for help. He took another sip of his drink as he pondered the request for a moment. ?Alright, I'm interested. What do you need help with??

?It's different from your usual line of work, as I am out for information rather than having anyone brought in, in particular on two female dragons.? Catalina mentioned the first of the potential stumbling blocks. Lang frowned as expected.

?Fair enough.? He recovered.

Catalina actually breathed easier at his response. She had feared that the conversation may be over at this point.

?They are in Rhydin to hide, that is, I know that one of them is currently in town. The other one... They are both originally from Dragon's Eye, a world in which for the last 700 years or so two opposing factions of dragons have been warring against each other.?

Lang gave another light nod as he moved his hand up to massage the bridge of his nose and muttered to himself. ?Had to be dragons.? Out loud he asked, ?Names??

?Carla Silverdale and Jane Bloomsworth. Those are, of course, assumed names. Carla still lives under the presumed name in Rhydin. Jane I've found no trace of for the past 18 months, and nothing prior to about two years ago. For those 6 or 7 months she worked as groundskeeper for the cemetery.? Catalina volunteered what little she had been able to find out on her own.

?Seeing how you are asking me for help, I am guessing they are people against your side?? Lang committed those two names to memory.

?I should mention that Jane is from the fraction of dragons that are necromancers and that consider humanoids as no different from cattle. Carla is one of those Golden dragons who think humans are creatures that should be given certain rights, and can be lived with on an equal level...not keeping them as pets, slaves or food.? Catalina slightly shook her head. Which side each of them was on was still in question.

?Great... One that sounds easy, the other sounds like a fight waiting to happen.? Lang commented with a rueful smirk.

?Well, I am looking to find out what Dax, one of the kings most trusted Dragons, stumbled across about a year ago, without telling anyone anything, that got him eliminated. I'm fairly certain one of those two is behind it.? Catalina wondered if Lang picked up on the amount of information in that sentence.

?Alright... I'll see what I can dig up for you.? Lang nodded again and took another sip.

?Just being from one side or another is really no reason to suspect one or the other more or less. There is political maneuvering happening on both sides. Nothing's ever just black and white.?

?No need to bore me with the political side of things.? Lang nodded again.

?Besides facts, I'm also interested in any rumors you may happen across. These two are hiding here and will be easily spooked. I spooked someone. Luckily I wasn't desired to be dead outright, at least the assassin sent messed up.? She thought it only fair to warn him. Besides, if either went deeper into hiding it would only be yet more difficult to find out anything useful.

?Thanks for the added info.? Knowing that the two people were easy to spook, meant that he needed to be more careful.

?You may find this useful.? Catalina pulled a sheet of paper from her pocket with the information of addresses and names and last place of work and various other bits of information she had found on each of the ladies and handed it to Lang. He took the piece of paper and scanned it before he folded it up. It was then slipped into his inner coat pocket.

?They do read minds and they would recognize one of their own. So I've been asked to hire a detective and quit snooping around myself.? Catalina grinned then. ?That leaves to discuss what Fee you'd like to be rewarded with for your troubles.?

?Rewarded? Lang looked at Catey as if she had suggested something completely outrageous. ?As long as I don't have to show up in front of people...I hate that.?

?I am sure you will have expenses and you will invest your time and expertise. You should probably charge a fee at least as high as what the famous Mr. DeMuer would charge.? Catalina advised. She didn?t like the idea that he should take on the fairly dangerous job but refuse payment.

?Very well?? Lang chuckled to that. ?I'll charge you a penny less than he charged you.?

?He didn't get to charge me because I didn't locate him yet and because he doesn't strike me as particularly suited to the job. I mean no offense to your friend, of course.? Catalina detached a coin pouch from her gypsy skirt and slid it over the table toward Lang. She still planned on hiring the detective, though, provided she could get an appointment with the popular Alain DeMuer sometime soon. ?That was what I was hoping we'd agree upon as up front payment.?

?No offence taken.? Lang glanced to the pouch and picked it up, weighing the pouch and coins in his hand. ?Tell you what? I'll take the payment depending on my results?? He set the pouch back on the table.

?While that is certainly most honorable of you, I strongly suggest that you re-consider that.? She gave a humorless grin. ?I may not be here to pay for the results the moment you have any. I expect to be called away for a bit in about two weeks.?

?Then I'll collect the payment then.? Lang insisted with a light shrug.

?I may not be back. Should that be the case, Rena will know how to get any results into hands where it would do some good.? Catalina shook her head. He was really making this difficult. She had not planned on divulging quite that much personal information. ?Rena's not to be involved in this, though, if at all avoidable.?

Lang nodded lightly before he looked to the pouch again. He then sighed softly.

?Alright?for you I'll agree to your terms.? He plucked up the pouch, and then slipped it into his coat.

?Thank you.? Catalina smiled and then gave him a wink. ?It's not my money anyway, so you're not depriving me of it. I'd just have to return any leftovers.?

?Welcome.? He nodded lightly to that. ?Relax? you got me to help you.?

?I am glad that you decided to take on the job. Thank you. Though relaxing is much easier said than done.? Now she picked up the cup and tried the tea. It was pleasant. ?I will certainly sleep much better knowing that you'll be looking into this. Now I can concentrate on being unsuspicious.?

?Welcome again. And that is true.? Lang smiled back to Catey. ?I'll try not to bust too many heads.?

?One of those heads may hold something the king very much wants to know about. I'd love to know which one and what that is.? She chuckled at his joking remark.

?Relax...I'll treat this as a professional would.? Lang laughed softly.

?Something told me that you would.? Catalina grinned. ?You must be good at it to make a living from it.?

?Keep it up and I'll use my own brand of finding people.? He took another sip. ?Former profession, now I just help Hera in cleaning the city up.?

?Somehow I can't picture you with a broom and a bucket of mopping water.? Catalina sipped from her cup, hiding a grin, and then set the cup down. ?I probably took up enough of your time by now and I'm sure Seamus is wondering by now what's been keeping me. Thank you for the tea as well.?

?Cute, very cute.? Lang smirked. ?You weren't taking up my time.?

?I wish you the best of luck, of course, and a great evening.? Catalina stood up then and smiled to Lang again.

?You too.? Lang stood as well. ?And try not to get in to much trouble.?

Walk through Rhydin

"We both have been awfully busy the last few days." Catalina started once they had left the inn. There was so much she needed to tell Seamus about, and none of it made for a topic of conversation in public. The romance of Rhydin by night was lost on her this evening. "Do you remember me mentioning that Lox had come by and that he'd be back in three weeks?"

"I missed him at the ranch and he came into town looking for me." Catalina squeezed Seamus's fingers and then kept an altogether tighter hold of them. "He found me at the Outback. At first I was afraid he'd come to fetch me back right away, especially with me having messed up my mission."

"Hmm, one of those things I wasn't at liberty to share before. Lox, or Loxthanthalas, isn't just any Golden. He is one of the Elite, as close to a prince as possible on Dragon's Eye. He came himself because of the last report I sent back, as he can make decisions without having to ask the court first." Catalina looked to Seamus then. "I was to do more than just sit around and enjoy a forced vacation. I couldn't tell you much before because it's all to be very secret."

"The disappearance of Dax, another Golden, and Benjamin, a seasoned general, and how it happened is very suspect. Just before them disappearing Dax had mentioned coming across something here in Rhydin that was connected to the happenings at home. He wasn't specific in the least, though, and now he can't be asked. They sent me to carefully check on his old contacts, mostly because I'm the only courier that had been to Rhydin before."

Catalina proceeded to tell Seamus about how far she had gotten with her snooping efforts to connect Dax's disappearance to what he found out here, where she had run into dead ends, and that the incident with the trap was deemed to be either a failed assassination attempt or a more or less friendly warning. Currently they thought the later to be the case, since nothing else had happened in the weeks since. That the warning had been given was a sure sign though that she had spooked someone and that she had been on the right track. But she had been ordered to stop investigating and to hire a detective or two. She also told him of her difficulties of getting a hold of the fashionable detective, and that she was considering hiring the bounty hunter she had met instead.

"The Elite must be on to something in connection to that at home, too, or Lox would not be so ready to have me stop the moment I hit a nerve. I'm guessing, that when he comes back it will be with a new plan that'll likely involve me returning to Dragon's Eye." Catalina offered her speculations to Seamus with a deep sigh. "He did however say that he'd take care of getting Marek paid should he come along. He must therefore expect that I will be able to return, at least for long enough to bring Marek back."

They walked quietly for a while. Catalina kept glancing to Seamus, wondering where his thoughts were taking him. There was little to like in what all she had just told him.

Seamus was frowning, mulling over what she had just told him. "Well, there innit much t' like in wha' ye jus' told me, ye know? I know I 'ave t' accept it an' all, bu' I b' imaginin' ye will come back, unscathed I 'ope. Do ye know if ye will b' able to stay in Rhy'Din after yer mission an' droppin' off Marek, or will ye b' goin' back t' Dragon's Eye again?" he asked, still frowning.

He didn't want her to go back, but he had to know. Plus, he still had some things to admit to her, too. That could wait until they made it back to the house, perhaps... Or he could say it now?

"It may take more than one trip to see this through." Catalina had to smile just a little at his insistence that she'd be back. "I've been contemplating resigning at the end of this mission."

His eyebrows shot up excitedly, a grin already replacing his frown. "Really?" he asked excitedly. His voice fell, though, when he continued, "But wha' would ye do then?"

"That is a good question. It wasn't that long ago that the vague dream for the future was to retire just as soon as the war was over, a little house, and maybe even have a family. With Rhydin to retire to, I'd not have to wait with that for the war be over." She slowed her steps as they neared the house and shook her head slightly. Dreaming was one thing, living a dream was another altogether.

"Perhaps I'll take up Ariana on her offer to actually work for her as a taster." She would like that with or without Seamus being a major part in her live.

"I think tha's a good idea," he agreed, smiling broadly. Noting her look, he added, "Do ye miss Dragon's Eye?"

He was watching her, his own pace slowing with hers. A brief glance was taken to the half moon, a soft sigh before turning his attention back to Catey.

"I want to say that I don't miss it, but that would be lying. No matter how bad things can get there, it's still home. I still feel odd walking outside after dark here and not having to worry what creatures may pop up from the ground. An odd thing to miss that." She grinned to Seamus.

"Is something wrong with the moon, darling?" His sigh and glance up had not escaped her.

"Hm?" he asked, looking at her. "Oh, nae... Jus' th' full moon is nearin', an' I find tha' t' b' depressin'," he commented while shrugging. A soft chuckle. "That is a strange thing t' miss, ye know."

"What is depressing about a full moon?" Catalina looked to him questioningly.

Even slowed steps brought them to the house. Catalina was getting excited all over again to see Seamus's room.

"A lot," he replied quietly, frowning. "It is painful," he added softly. Instead of elaborating, which he wanted to do, he led her up to the front door, a small grin breaking out as he moved to open the door. "Now close yer eyes..."

Catalina closed her eyes. Even wondering about how the moon could cause Seamus pain didn't quite keep a smile from her lips. She would ask him about that again later. Now was for getting surprised by what he had been working on the last few days.

"I'm ready. But don't think you're off the hook." She chuckled softly, giving his hand a gentle squeeze.

Seamus chuckled nervously, stepping in through the door after her. He squeezed her hand reassuringly, leading her down the dimly lit hallway toward his bedroom. Quietly, he opened his door, grinning at his rather nice looking room (in his opinion).

"Ye can open up, now," he whispered in her ear as he stood behind her, arms wrapping around her waist and his chin dropping to rest on her shoulder.

Catalina opened her eyes and let her gaze travel over the room. The room was painted a light brownish-cr?me color and his dresser, bedside table and four poster bed a deep cherry mahogany. Of course, there were some cattle antlers hanging up above the bed, but hopefully the white sheets and the soft, white fur comforter would take her eyes off it. He had a white fur rug on the floor just before the bed, and in front of the now marble fireplace. He had thick wool drapes covering the windows, and Cailean was curled up on the floor on top of the fur rug.

"Did you really make the furniture yourself?" She immediately loved the contrast between the dark cherry wood and the white furs. Seamus had done well by the fine wood, too. The way he had talked about the room, she had pictured straight, stark lines. But this dresser and bed had soft lines and even a few decorations to them. "It is beautiful, darling."

"It looks so much cheerier and brighter than I imagined when you described it." She turned around in his arms to hug and kiss him. When their lips separated again she winked up to him. "When you said antlers, I thought you meant deer antlers. These don't seem so bad and actually go well with the furs. Cailean must think so, too." At Seamus's quirked brow she explained with a wide grin, "He's sleeping peacefully instead of barking at the horns."

"Shall we go try it out and see if it all collapses when we sit down?" She gave him a cheeky wink. That fur on the bed looked ever so tempting and she wanted to find out if it was as soft to the touch as it looked.

"Aye, tha' I did. So... Ye like it?" he asked, his hands stuffed into his back pockets as he watched her examine his room. He was grinning, though, because he could see the approval on her face as she scrutinized. The kiss confirmed his question, though, and he laughed.

"Why would I wan' deer antlers?" Seamus asked, wrinkling his nose distastefully. He grinned wolfishly. "Cailean inherited me good taste." He said, winking roguishly.

"It wont collapse, but I like tha' idea," he agreed, giving her a dirty look as she mocked his work, though. All in jest, so rest be assured. He was already moving to the bed, jumping back to sit on it. Another grin as he patted the bed, motioning for her to join. "C'mon darlin'... It's perfect'y safe!"

"Of course it's perfectly safe." Catalina plopped down next to him with a chuckle and ran a hand over the fur. "Wow, it feels even softer than it looks."

For the next few hours they were distracted with each other, too much so for Catalina to ask further questions about the moon or for Seamus to remember that he had wanted to make good use of the jacuzzi tub. In fact, it was nearly morning again before the thought popped back into Catalina's mind.

"Darling?" With gentle fingers, partially propped up, she lightly brushed back a strand of hair from his face. When his sea-green eyes looked back at her, she brought up the subject. She kept her voice soft, but concern was evident in it just the same. "What was that about the moon hurting you, how is that possible?"

It had indeed slipped his mind, but Seamus had been half-hoping he could get away without having to elaborate. A sigh escaped as he looked up at her tenderly. He had no idea how to say it, but decided to be blunt in the end.

"I'm a werewolf," he stated, looking away after saying the last word with a bit of contempt.

There. He had said it. He exhaled loudly, glad to have it off his chest... but then he sharply inhaled, looking quickly to Catey again to assess her reaction. She had not turned her eyes from him.

Werewolf. Of course Catalina had heard stories about them, few good, most bad. But it was the contempt in his voice that made her raise her brows.

"Ye don't 'ate me, do ye?" he inquired meekly.

"No, darling, I do not hate you." Of that she was absolutely certain. What she felt for him was unchanged by his confession. He had not changed in the second it took so say the words, only the extend of her knowledge. She softly brushed her lips against his, It was a brief kiss, but conveyed love and reassurance none-the-less. She winked to him when she pulled back again. Her hand remained on his chest, feeling his heart beat somewhere under her palm. "At least you didn't say that you were a dragon."

But this wasn't a revelation like 'I'm a vegetarian' or 'I've eleven toes'. She needed a few moments to absorb the gravity of the confession. Questions sprung up as to which of the stories she had heard came close to the truth in regard to him. The 'big dogs' he had fought with came to mind as well as the repeated mention of a pack. Most of all, she wondered about why he sounded the way he did, in fact, it worried her. A few of her questions answered themselves and more sprang up. Those questions could wait a little.

"Why the self loathing, darling, did you do something you feel ashamed of?" Catalina searched his face.

The kiss, despite being brief, reassured him. He grinned lopsidedly. "I s'pose.. A dragon would b' pretty bad, eh?" His heart thudded steadily beneath her palm.

"I didn' ask t' b' a monster," he mumbled in response, looking away from her.

No, he had never done anything "bad", but he still felt uneasy about being a werewolf. It bothered him, especially because on earth, scary stories are always filled with big bad wolves and werewolves.

"I don't think you could be a monster." Catalina shook her head. "I take it that means you were not born as such. Is it a disease then that may even have a cure?" At seeing his facial expression she amended her question. "How did it happen?"

It bothered her that he should suffer. She would do what she could to alleviate that.

"A disease?" he echoed, musing over that fact. "I s'ppose it could b' considered as such... I don' know o' any cure, I 'eard there may be... I doubt it. It's on'y a bother at th' full moon, anyway... Small price t' pay," he mumbled the last bit.

"I was attacked... After going after th' werewolf tha' killed me brother," he answered, his voice softening with remorse.

He had gotten used to it for the most part, using his werewolf form to attack other, bad werewolves. That's a good thing, right?

"A price to pay for avenging your brother? That sounds like not all that small a price to pay if you've to pay installments once a month for the rest of your life." If there was a cure, they could start looking for it, provided that he wanted to give up those 'advantages'.

"What do you look like in the light of a full moon?" Catalina grinned to Seamus. That was a very important question, wasn't it? "Are you completely changing shape and look like nothing more harmful than a gray or white wolf, or do you grow huge, keeping humanoid aspects?"

In a sense, it reminded him of his brother. He wasn't sure if he'd want to stop being a werewolf. He'd like to make a point that they aren't all monsters, too.

"Fair point... I don' know. Kin'a reminds me o' Tomas," he states, shrugging. A laugh rumbles from him as he tosses his head back at her question.

"I look like a wolf?" he answers questionably, chuckling still. "I look like a wolf all beefed up standin' on 'is 'ind legs, wit' dark grey fur. My muscles grow all big an' sexy-like." He nods sagely at that, a wolfish grin on his face.

"Sexy-like, ey?" She had to chuckle then. "I never thought of a wolf as sexy before. So I'll have to wait another week at least to get to have a peek?"

"Those two children you are dreaming about..." She sobered, "...would they be born being werewolves?"

He laughs, shaking his head. "Ye are nuts, m'dear." But his eyes are twinkling.

He tilts his head, looking up at her. "Pro'ly not, unless ye are a werewolf." He shrugs, contemplating that. "I'm really nae sure... Lyam and Tara's kids were werewolves... but both o' there parents were..." he trailed off. He really hadn't considered how it affected his children.

"No, I'm just human." She grinned, almost disgustingly and rather unfittingly happy. "Perhaps there's something on the subject to be found in the big library."

"Is the hurting getting any less over time? I assume it's the changing that hurts." She looked to him with concern again.

"Mm, we will 'ave t' check tha' out," he agreed, nodding enthusiastically at her. He smiled dotingly at her, thankful to have her with him right now.

That smile was rewarded instantly with another of those brief but loving kisses.

"Aye, it doesn' hurt nearly as bad as it used t'. Th' changin' is painful, it's like 'avin' e'ery fiber o' yer bein' ripped apart, t' an extent," he explains somewhat nonchalantly.

"We'll definitely have to think of something to do about that. I don't like you hurting." Catalina moved her arms to hug him then and snuggled to him. "Did you ever have a chance to check with a real healer on that?"

Seamus looks at her, contemplating her suggestion. He shrugged. "Ne'er thought o' it really..."

"I'll probably have more questions later, darling. Right now I can just think of silly ones, like why are there some that are bad? I guess that's a sign of me getting sleepy despite the exciting news about a sexy wolf." She gave a little giggle.

"Some use their powers t' inflict pain upon others, kill people an' t' change 'em into lycans jus' fo' the heck o' it," he responded, tilting his head as he looked at her with a wolfish smile.

He suddenly pulled her cleanly on top of him, kissing her nose and wrapping his arms around her back. "Guess I'll 'ave t' take care of tha'!" he stated, waggling his brows suggestively.

"Oh, and how do you propose you'll do that?" She chuckled and winked to him before she brought her lips to his.

"Jus' like this," he mumbled into her mouth, eyes closing as he deepened the kiss.

Pack List

When Catalina stopped at the inn a few days later before she would head back to Seamus?s ranch, who should be standing behind the bar with a cigar and a tankard but Marek.

?Good evening. Are you tending tonight?? Catalina asked with a grin as she took a seat.

?Not officially.? Marek replied with a slight shift of his shoulders. ?Need something while I'm back here??

?Aye, I could do with a bit of whiskey over ice, if you would be so kind.? She took a closer look at Marek, studying him for a moment, and then grinned.

"Can you unofficially get me something from back there, dude? It'd be mighty groovy of you if you did." The woman a couple stools away from where Catey had sat down asked with a charming but acidic salute.

?Whiskey and ice... I think I can do that.? Marek smirked to Catey and then nodded to the other woman. ?Why not? Whatcha got a thirst for?? The cigar sat between is lips as he settled his tankard to the bar and moved to get a glass and a whiskey bottle for Catalina's drink.

?Thank you, Marek.? Catalina glanced over to the other patron then. She was pretty in a rebellious sort of way, Catalina thought, despite the dread locks. A black star was painted under the corner of one of her eyes. It wasn't a tattoo.

"Far out! Just a bottle of Goldschlager. Should have my name written on it. Know the poison?" The woman grinned to Marek, who now settled a generous glass of whiskey over ice before Catalina with a wink. Then he nodded over to her and removed the cigar from his lips.

?I've heard of it before in here... I'll find it.? Marek turned to look over the bottles behind the bar.

?Thank you, Marek.? Catalina sent a wide smile his way when he happened to look over again and raised the glass slightly toward him before she took a drink from it.

"Third shelf. You dig?" Marek?s eyes weren't on the dread locked woman, but the she pointed. Rings adorned every finger, and even overlapped.

?No problem doll face.? Marek nodded over at Catalina with a smile. He had found the bottle of Goldschlager and moved back to settle it before the woman. ?Glass or anything, or do you drink it straight from the bottle darlin??

"I've got the glass covered." As Marek approached, her hand closed into a fist. And in an uncurling sweep of silent grace, her palm reopened to yield her own shot glass. She gave Marek a well practiced wink. "Don't sweat it, man."

Marek nodded to her with a slight smirk before he picked up his own tankard again and moved to lean against the bar.

?While you're back there, Marek, right here?? Catalina tapped a finger on the counter a little to Marek's right, ?should be a tin with your name on it.?

His gaze lowered in search. He settled the cigar between his lips to snatch up the package once he spotted it. A smirk perked his lips again and he settled the tankard down as he took a lean against the back bar with a nod over at Catalina. A light smile played forward as he opened it up. The tin held the promised baklava from Ariana's bakery and, of course, he helped himself to one of tasty treats inside, noting the coin pouch nestled among the pastries.

Catalina watched with a rather satisfied grin. She liked 'hiding' stuff in plain sight. Then she picked up her glass for another drink. The dread locked woman unscrewed the bottle and poured herself a glass which she then promptly emptied.

Marek dropped the cigar into a nearly empty mug behind the bar, the better for him to enjoy the baklava. Catalina watched him chew as she listened in on the conversation of a trio near by. They were talking of flying machines and the extend of their experience with them, like and dislike.

The shot glass being slammed onto the counter by the dread locked woman a second time took Catalina?s attention from the trio?s conversation and her gaze from Marek. The woman had stood up and now pulled a guitar from the leather case she had brought with her. By the time the woman slipped the guitar strap over her head and strummed a few notes Marek was finished with the pastry and wiped his hands on a bar towel.

Marek settled the box down on the bar before he lifted his tankard for a sip. A moment later he arched a brow over at the trio. They still talked of flying. Now might be a good time to bring up flying dragons. She'd not have ruined the enjoyment of the baklava with a mention of a 'vacation'.

?Did you happen upon any new thoughts in connection with dragons?? She asked, seemingly idly.

?They like to eat people from time to time.? Marek nodded over at Catalina. Then his bows furrowed. ?Though one was president back home once and he wasn't so bad... 'course he was assassinated.?

?True that, about some liking to eat people, not all though. You mentioned that president before.... how was he not so bad and why did he get assassinated. Dragons are not that easy to kill.? Catalina was curious. Marek had mentioned the assassinated dragon president before. The dread locked woman now played a soft and structured tune.

?Hm?? Marek's gaze returned to Catalina. He had been listening to the guitar and the harmony hummed to it by the dread locked woman. ?Oh... kinda on the down low that info doll face. Lot of people died was the rumor in the shadows trying to figure out the who and the why.?

?Probably more than just a rumor.? Catalina commented.

?True... know someone that was in the shadows during that time. Like a blades tip, either way you fall, you get cut. How long is this trip you're planning?? Marek lifted his tankard for a drink as his lean behind the bar shifted some.

?Perhaps as little as one week, perhaps up to three, provided nothing changes between now and then.? She hoped for more time to stay in town and to spend with Seamus. The melody the dread locked woman strummed made her miss Seamus already. ?What kind of shadows were those??

?Expression doll face.? Marek nodded over the bar at Catalina while he listened to the music. The music stopped suddenly, though. The dread locked woman hopped up and grabbed her guitar case. His brow quirked a brow at her quick departure as spoke to Catalina. ?Back where I come from, the shadows refer to operations done during the night. Black Ops kinda stuff doll.?

"I'm dippin'. Don't miss me too much?" The dread locked woman threw back as she walked toward the door; her bangles jingled an applause that signaled her exit. Marek watched her depart.

?Where I come from ?during the night? is not a time for being out and about. Can't be entirely avoided though.? On Dragon?s Eye the ?cover? of darkness was no cover at all, only an obstacle.

?Yeah, not always good for your health being out at night back home by me either but it's the best time to do some dealings.? Marek turned his gaze back at Catalina with a nod and a smirk.

?Because going out would be paramount to suicide, no one thinks you'd go there.? Catalina nodded and grinned. Of course dead people were not so good at making deals.

?Pretty much.? He nodded. ?Lot of the corps get hit during the night, so security is usually highest then. But a good score can make up for the trouble.?

?What are corps?? Catalina was fairly certain the word was not the short form for corpses in this context.

?Mega Corporations. Pretty much run things where I come from. Always one wanting to steal from another... or such.? He lifted his tankard for another drink. The trio near by split up and called over fare wells.

?They lack a common goal then.? Catalina turned her head to nod to the women about to depart. ?Good night.?

?Oh, they all have the same goal. To come out on top making the most money.? Marek nodded to the woman and then turned his gaze back to Catalina.

?Greed can be found everywhere.? Catalina was surprised. She?d expected Marek to watch carefully as the woman walked toward the door. ?What was your goal??

?Yeah... back where I come from doll face, there's a lot of greed... falls like rain you could say.? He actually chuckled, hearing that. It had been a while since he'd done that now hasn't it? He quirked a brow then. ?My goal??

?In a place where greed falls like rain.? Catalina nodded.

?Staying alive count?? He perked a smirk as he reached for his cigar. Then he remembered that he'd dropped it into a half empty mug on the bar and furrowed his brows a moment, settling his tankard down and checking the pockets on his leather jacket for one he'd purchased from the cigar girl here recently. ?Played escort with my team a few times. Security to a 'transfer' once or twice... secured some information for a friend several times. Retired a few corp types.?

?Of course staying alive counts.? Catalina nodded and lifted her glass for another drink. That last swallow also emptied the glass and she returned it to the counter.

?Walk softly doll face...? Marek called after the woman that had carried empty bottles to the trash can behind the bar, taking a moment to check out her backside before he nodded back over at Catalina. ?Yeah... staying alive is the main goal.?

?It sounds like we both come from absolutely charming places.? Catalina turned to Marek again with the sarcastic comment after having returned the woman?s nod. Her voice didn?t carry a sarcastic note, though.

?My name is Maranya Tatiana Valkonan, or Doctor, if you have need. Not doll face.? The woman paused her long legged stride for the door. Her white knee length lab coat flared slightly with the movement and her voice held an amused tone.

?Have a good night, Doc.? Marek smirked over to Maranya.

?I will try, spasibo. You do the same, Marek was it?? She added politely toward Catalina, ?And you as well, Miss.?

?Thank you, Ms. Valkonan.?

?Indeed, it was? Marek cast a wink after the doctor.

?Maranya, please. Unless I'm treating you.? Maranya turned and resumed her stride for the door; her slight blush was hidden from view because her back was to the pair. With a press of palm to the wood, she opened the door, and headed outside.

Marek watched the good doctor depart, more so watching her backside. Catalina grinned, watching Marek.

?What?? Marek glanced over to Catalina, caught like the cat with the canary in its mouth.

?I wonder how many doll faces you could identify from that view.? Catalina gave him a teasing grin. She took note of the rather drunk appearing man who had stepped behind the bar. He lowered the cigarette to study the bottles there. He flicked ash onto the floor absently before he reached down a bottle of Irish. Whiskey in hand, he headed for the stairs again, carelessly saluting the two at the bar with the bottle on his way.

?Quite a few...? Marek perked a smirk as he lifted his tankard for a drink. Then he nodded after the quick pick up and depart by the man now heading back for the stairs.

?You won't need a pack list then I take it?? Catalina glanced at her empty glass and then up to Marek again. He had agreed to come along after all, hadn?t he? The bar was empty now, or nearly so. It was probably the best opportunity she?d get to talk without being overheard. ?In case you should decide to come along.?

?How you plan on traveling??

?Dragonback through the portal and to the mainland, then on foot.?

?You're riding a dragon to make the trip?? Marek?s brow arched a bit higher.

?I know I mentioned that before. They're quite the only way through the portal.?

?And why's that ? Portal in the sky or somewhere above the ground out of reach??

?That's one of the reasons. Another is the possible speed with which one can get through.? She groaned inwardly. Couldn't he have questions that made the trip sound nicer?

?Could a plane make it??

?Plane??

?Vehicle that flies in the sky??

?Oh, like a star ship.? Catalina had heard of those... in fact, just a wee bit ago. She thought about that for a moment longer and then shook her head. ?Not through the portal, I don't think.?

?Why's that?? Marek took a drink from his tankard.

?They're much bigger than dragons for one and a lot less flexible for another.? Catalina shrugged.

?Where's this portal at? Air... sea... land??

?Air over sea there, here air over...come to think of it I don't really know, it was cloudy every time.? She had not paid attention either at the time. To her traveling through that portal was always disorienting.

?These dragons... opposed to carrying cargo? Besides people??

?Depends on the weight, mostly.?

?A vehicle the size of a large covered wagon?? Marek figured she'd know that size, other than the vehicle name on his mind currently.?

?That would definitely qualify as too bulky and too heavy. As a rule of thumb, I'd say if you can carry it along with your gear it should be ok. I've seen them fly with three people and their packs before, though rarely. Usually they take just one or two.?

?Hmm... ? Marek lifted his tankard as he considered a few things. He nodded a bit, lowering his tankard some. ?Hmm... sort of limits the possibilities of protection. Specially with talk of trouble from dragons while there.?

?I'm truly more worried about what those necromancers come up with, not so much the necromancers themselves.?

?A well placed bullet can fix that.?

?My point exactly.? Catalina grinned. ?Cans and various other practice targets are fine, but they're not the real thing.?

?Would I be going along as aid, or as security??

?That's a good question. Bodyguard was mentioned, but that's a rather an unfitting term for it.? Catalina considered a few other terms, but liked none of them.

?What term fits?? Marek quirked a brow, taking a drink from the tankard.

?Hmm, what term would you like to fit??

?What term, do you think fits?? Marek smirked.

?This isn't getting us anywhere.? She grinned. ?Perhaps team mate or partner, only I've no idea yet how much sharing of information I'll be allowed. I won't even know what exactly I'll be expected to accomplish until shortly before or even after leaving. It wouldn't be the first time the briefing happens on the way.?

?So... you won't know what your objective is, until close to departure time??

?Right.?

?Not much time for last minute preparations. Traveling by foot or horse or??

?No. But there are a few things I can count on. The undead things will be out and about every night, there are battle fields to be traveled across, if I'm lucky there's an inn full of rowdy warriors with a free room or a tent that a general will have cleared out. If we've to stay on Wing Island for any amount of time, the Golden will keep watch.?

?Sounds like Dante's place back home at happy hour.? Marek muttered. ?Horse... wagon??

?I'm sure they'll have something there for you to look at, too.? Catalina grinned at his mutter and then shook her head in the negative at his question. ?There are horses, but not that many.?

?What does that mean?? He quirked a brow and then took a drink from his tankard. ?Are we riding them in our travel??

?The inns all provide female companionship to the warriors. We'd be given horses only if a mission absolutely required such.?

?So can't count, on traveling by horse... might be just by foot?? He chuckled then, and a smirk crossed him. ?Female companionship eh? Does that come out of my pay??

?Aye, they charge for that.? Even Glo took money when she decided she liked one enough to come out of ?retirement? for a few hours. ?Apart from getting there and back, aye, it could be jogging and walking for a few days.?

?Hm... a work out.?

?Traveling.?

?One pack then carried??

?I usually pack very light, a change or two and extra socks, whatever I need to clean up, a few knives, bow and arrow... now that'll be gun and bullets instead of bow and arrows...something to nibble on, a bedroll, and matches.?

?I don't need a bedroll... matches won't take up much room... gun or two would be a definately.? Marek nodded some.

?Oh, and this time also a candle.? Catalina winked, feeling much better now that Marek considered what he should pack.

?Candle??

?That was your idea.? Catalina nodded. ?Something about one just had to have seen your face by candlelight.?

?I said that?? Marek perked a brow as he rubbed at his chin with a free hand.

?You sure did. Ariana teased you about it, too, and recommended that more than one candle should be brought along. But she isn't the one who'd have to carry those candles.? Catalina grinned.

?Hm... I'll have to remember one then perhaps.? He rubbed his jaw line.

?Perhaps.? She grinned, more or less ignoring the sound foot steps and a thump she heard coming from somewhere outside. ?Does that mean you've more or less decided to come along??

?High powered guns or three... few party poppers... got my own knives... but I'll bring a spare... hm? I spose I could find some time to take a break from the ... tech world.? Marek glanced about the place and the usual noises heard then back to Catey with a nod.

?Those arrows also used to get dinner... can those guns do that too or would they just make a mess of a rabbit or grouse?? She wondered if she should be worried at the sounds of rattling bones and chains or the distant whistling drone of gears.

?They can do that. Little more noise then an arrow though.? Marek appeared unphased by the noises.

?Hmm. Feathers and string don't weigh much.?

?Well, I've some rest to find... we can talk later or tomorrow more if ya want.? Marek pushed from the back bar and settled his tankard down.

?I'm glad that you decided to brave the dragons and come along.? Catalina smiled to Marek and stood up. ?I'd like that. I've to head out, too.?

?I'd rather not get eaten, less it's from one of those you said the Inn's provide for companionship.? He smirked a bit as pushed out from behind the bar.

?You have a good night.? Catalina merely grinned at his comment.

?Later...? He gave her a wink and then moved out for the back door of the place as Catey made use of the front door.

Alain to Investigate Dragons

It was the third time Catalina made her way to the S.P.I.S.D building at the edge of the Old Temple District. The third time being the charm, or so she hoped. On her previous attempts the popular detective had not been in, or that was what she had been told.

She wondered once again how good or bad an idea it was to hire the rather young detective. What she had observed of him was not exactly flattering. He had some rather shady types following him around, one of them a plot wing. He conducted business in public places. He had a drove of females hanging off his neck. Some of his associates were anything but trustworthy. How, with all of those points against him, he had become this popular among the denizens of this town was a puzzle to Catalina.

But Lox had said to hire a couple of detectives and, that while it would be nice thing should either be able to find out anything useful, the main purpose of the hiring was to distract whomever her own investigations had spooked. Catalina was fairly certain that Alain could manage that part just fine without even trying.

None of those considerations showed when she finally came face to face with Alain DeMuer.

She found the detective slouched behind his desk, frowning through an odd-looking pair of yellow spectacles at a musty old book balanced in his hands. Cigarette butts made a small mountain in his glass ashtray nearby, right beside an old-fashioned glass of scotch. His brow was knit with concentration, but he looked up when she came in.

Alain had seen her a few times before, but they had not exchanged names previously. Right now the woman was definitely not dressed to impress, garbed in well used brown leather pants and jacket.

?Greetings Mr. DeMuer?? At his nod Catalina introduced herself with a small smile. ?Catalina Mandoccy. I am glad to finally have found you to be in. Provided that you are available to take on a new case I may have a job for you.?

The young detective folded his spectacles and they quickly lost their yellow tint, but just a moment later he tucked them away in his shirt pocket, preventing further scrutiny. The book, too, he shut and put away in a desk drawer, and offered his right hand, scarred and tattooed, for a firm shake. "Ms. Mandoccy, good to meet you - and yes, I think we can take on a few more cases." His lips split into an easy smile. "What can I do for you?"

?I need every little bit of information you can dig up on these two, rumors included.? With that Catalina pulled a sheet of paper from her leather jacket and slid it across the desk.

Alain scanned the paper of handwritten notes, a clean script. Besides two names were addresses with dates, places of employment with dates, extremely brief descriptions of appearances and known abilities.

?They are both dragons from Dragon?s Eye, a world in which for the last 700 years or so two opposing factions of dragons have been warring against each other, hiding out here in Rhydin. Carla?s a Golden, the other is from the fraction of dragons that are necromancers and that consider humanoids as no different from cattle. You will note that I have found out very little about ?Jane?. Neither of the women is using her given name. One of them is behind the disappearance of two very experienced men, General Benjamin Lanivere Strong and Dax Falaxion. Dax, a Golden, had been on the verge of getting some valuable information before he disappeared and before he could pass on what he knew.? Catalina had to pause for a breath. But she didn?t pause long enough for Alain to respond.

?They are easily spooked. I should probably mention that they read minds easily and without any regard for privacy. My looking into the situation has spooked someone, quite possibly one of the two, into at least sending a warning, in the form of a rather unskilled assassin. The short of that story is that catching up with the man lead to only dead ends. To keep something worse from happening to me I've been asked to hire a detective and quit snooping around myself.? She finished with a hopeful look. She wondered if the young detective, who looked much older than the years he admitted to in public, would accept the case or find a way to politely decline.

The detective clutched his jaw and scritched, tongue pushed up to the back of his teeth, and gradually, as she spoke, he slouched deeper into thought. 'They,' whoever her superiors were, wanted her off the case because sticking to it would get killed... so it fell to the shmuck who did this kind of thing for hire. In this instance, Alain.

"S.P.I. is discreet as can be," he said to her, stretching the truth just a little, "...but nobody's perfect. If they find out what we're up to, they'll try and kill us outright, if we're lucky." His eyes met hers. "So it'll cost you."

A long breath left his lips, and he sank back into thought, his gaze somewhere on the desk. "Dragons, huh... Do they always look like dragons?"

"If we're lucky..." His quick assessment of the situation had her revise her opinion of him for the better. She grinned and took out two coin pouches from within her leather jacket and slid them across the table. She carried four, but there was no need to tell Alain that. "That would be the point. Information would be nice, though. Might this be enough for a down payment?"

"No, they do not look like dragons. In fact, they would be going to great lengths to look like anything but dragons. I did mention that they read minds easily and constantly?" Catalina was certain that it was that ability that had kept her from finding out any more than she had and that had made her spook one.

Alain's scattered thoughts whirled their way into a neat little conclusion, and correspondingly he relaxed into a small but easy grin. Her down payment was collected without a word, apparently sufficient for the task. "...We have just the thing. Yes, Ms. Mandoccy - I believe we can help you."

?Thank you, Mr. DeMuer.? Catalina smiled back and rose to her feet to shake hands with the detective on their agreement. ?Good luck to you. I?m looking forward to be hearing back from you.?

Catalina was still grinning to herself when she left the building a little while later. Lox and the Elite should be satisfied with what she had been able to arrange.

Leave Taking

Catalina slowed her steps and came to stop when she spotted Seamus playing with Cailean. She watched them for a while. They were playing tug of war with what looked to be the shirt Seamus must have taken off at some point while he was sawing wood.

Seamus spotted her then and the wolf pup shamelessly took advantage of his distraction, winning the fight. Cailean did not go far with his prize, though, and entirely lost interest in the shirt a moment later when he noticed that Seamus had gotten to his feet to greet Catey. When they remained occupied with hugging and kissing despite his calls, he rolled up on the shirt for a little nap, secure in the knowledge that they would eventually remember to spoil him with attention.

?Wha? did ye find out?? Seamus asked some timed later, still holding Catey to him. The look on her face told him it was bad news even before she answered. She had gone to Val?s ranch that afternoon to check on what the lads there had determined to have been the cause of death of the horse that had collapsed on his front lawn the previous afternoon.

?The horse was poisoned, a low working poison and most likely administered while I was in town.? She didn?t need to tell him that had she gone to Val?s ranch that day instead of allowing herself an entire day spent with him, the horse would have collapsed with her on it, and likely at the most inopportune spot. Equally as possible was that the poison had been meant for her rather than the horse. Obviously, the detective had not managed to take all the attention away from her. ?Lox will be in a hurry getting me away from Rhydin for a while when he hears of this.?

Catalina held Seamus tighter yet. She had hoped that she could talk Lox into letting her stay for a few more weeks and to have the extra time with Seamus. But those hopes were dashed now.

"For 'ow long do ye think ye will b' gone?" he asked, murmuring quietly into her hair as he stroked the back of her head fondly. He didn't want her to go, but he understood that she could be in more danger if she remained, too, and he would indeed rather she be safe.

"I do not know yet for sure. The portal is safe for traveling through at irregular intervals." Catalina never had liked the portal's unpredictability less than now. Not only would she like to know when she could be back, but she wanted to give Seamus something to look forward to. "It just about takes a Golden to know when and for how long."

"About a week, I'm thinking, longer if we just missed a portal opening." She snuggled deeper into his embrace then and with a soft sigh added, "If I'm not back in four weeks' time you can open the bag I stuffed under the sink in the kitchen."

"Oh," he looked dismayed, wishing it wasn't so irregular, too. "Well I 'ope ye don' miss th' portal."

Seamus kissed Catey's forehead before resting his chin on her head. "Why is there a bag under me sink?"

"I had to put it somewhere. What's in it won't do me no good on Dragon's Eye this time around." The bag held keys to lock boxes at two different banks in Rhydin, the red ball gown, and a letter for just in case. "I don't care to miss the portal either. I still very much want for us to go to the harvest ball together."

"I... see..." he didn't ask what was in it, merely acknowledged its presence. "Damn, there's another ball?" he asked, teasing her because he knew she loved the ball... For whatever reason he was clueless.

"Yes, at the end of the harvest festival. Don't worry, it's not a costume ball." She placed a quick kiss on the tip of his nose and changed the subject. "What's for dinner?"

"Ye, I'm 'opin," he responded with a wolfish grin, leaning in to nuzzle her neck playfully. Laughs a moment later, rubbing his nose against hers. "Mm, I don' know. Wha' would ye like? I'd like t' make ye something ye like before ye go..." he trailed off, considering the foods and spices and he did happen to have in the kitchen.

"Besides you?" She winked and rubbed noses with him some more. Then she slipped from his arms and reaching for his hand started for the kitchen. "I'd love just about anything. Chocolate pudding maybe and some kind of plants? Whatever you feel like fixing. May I watch?"

She turned her head back to call over her shoulder. "Come on Cailean, Seamus is fixing dinner."

He only shook his head, laughing at her as he entwined his fingers with hers. "I think I can whip up some puddin'... I 'ave some asparagus, I think. Do ye like fish? O' course ye can watch!"

Seamus smiled, following her gaze to smile at Cailean as he hopped up and scampered after them. He was probably expecting another bone, hopefully with some skin on it!

Catalina thoroughly enjoyed not only watching Seamus as he prepared a meal for them in his new kitchen, making use of the equipment they had purchased together over the last few weeks but also helping him. It had been years since she got to spend any amount of time in a kitchen and back when she had it was with chores assigned by one of the under cooks in the court kitchen.

Seamus arranged their dinner onto plates straight from pan and pots and they enjoyed it and chocolate pudding for dessert by candle light, not in the dining room, but in front of the fire place in the living room.

Cailean, still busy with the bone he had charmed out of Seamus at the time they were ready to eat, had not followed them there. When they returned to the kitchen quite some time later to wash up the dishes he was asleep on the mat by the stove.

Seamus tucked Catey into his embrace, kissing her softly before consequently picking her up and tossing her over his shoulder.

"Bedtime, love," he exclaimed, a roguish grin on his face as he began trekking across the cottage to his bedroom, kicking the door behind him as they disappeared into it.

The Shack

"This is far as I can take you. You may want to stay here for the night and head out in the morning... safer that way." Lox swung his big head around again, one of his dark green eyes looking at them. "I'll meet you here again in one week. Try not to be late."

"We've the usual three days leeway for this, right?"" Catey asked as she took off the belt and stretched this muscle and that before she would attempt to climb down.

"Not this time." Lox grumbled and shook his head...the gesture looked very strange when a dragon did it. "You'll be here on time or early."

Marek glanced about as he removed the strap and worked his way off the dragon.

?And here I forgot my camera... boys never believe this one?? He had another look about as found his footing on the ground. ?So... we're here??

"As you say, Lox." Catey thought it best not to argue. She climbed out off the saddle instead and then slid more than climbed down the dragon's side and leg.

"If by 'here' you mean the starting point you're correct. Should you find yourself without Catey, try to make it back here." Lox looked at the both of them for a moment longer.

?All right? get lost, head to square one. Got it.? With a shifting of his pack at his back to get comfy a bit again Marek nodded up at the dragon. Then he looked about again and took in the place.

"It'll be dark soon and I've to be off. Good luck." Lox waited until they moved away before he took off again. He didn't want them hurt by him beating his wings.

"You had better not get lost." Catalina grinned and then nodded to the building. "They should have something approximating ale in there."

Marek watched the dragon departing, and then lowered his gaze then to Catalina. ?Well, lead the way. This is your town.? A smirk perked his lips with a shift of the pack at his back.

"I'd not call this a town." Catalina headed toward the shack.

?Figure of speech... you know this land pretty well then yes?? Marek proceeded after her while keeping a watchful eye out, making notes of their drop off point for future reference. There really was only the one building, seemingly in the middle of nothing but dirt as far as one could see in any direction. The endless brown with a few whitish bits in it was dotted here and there with a short tree or two. He recognized the whitish bits as pieces of old bone.

"Yes." Knowing the land was a survival skill in her line of work. She stepped up onto the porch and put her hand to the door.

Marek moved along after her. His brow lifted some but he nodded as he gave pause when she did, his eyes moved about and then back at the shack.

"Well, it's probably nothing like you're used to, but it beats sleeping out in the open.? With that Catalina led the way inside.

Proceeding inside after her, Marek?s gaze swept about the quiet place. He unzipped his leather jacket, just in case of course. The inside was relatively dark and it took their eyes a while to adjust to the low light. A bar stretched down the entire length of a wall. A few tables and chairs stood around. What passed for windows was mostly boarded up. A few decorations hung on the wooden walls, among them a harp, the shorter half of it with strings. The place was currently empty of people.

?Quiet about.? Marek shifted the pack at his back slightly as he followed at her side once with in the building.

"Hello? Anyone home?" Catey called out.

"Is that you, Catey? I'll be right out!" Called a female voice from the far end of and somewhere behind the bar.

"The warriors usually don't show until just before dark. I'd love to be out of here and safely in a room before that happens." Catalina walked over toward where the voice had come from. "That's right, Glo. How much longer for the stew to be ready?"

Marek stepped forward with a glance over the decor' and then turned toward the sound of a voice with a quirking brow.

Before Catalina had a chance to explain the owner of the voice stepped out from what probably was the curtain hiding the kitchen. She was pretty with an attractive smile.

"Stew's ready now." Then the brunette saw Marek and her eyes widened a bit. "Ohlala, you didn't say you brought company." She slid around the bar and paused in front of them, quite obviously liking what she saw when she looked Marek over. "And who do we have here? Hello, you may call me Glo."

?Marek? I'm? the hired help so to speak. Glo? Pleasure...? Marek gave a nod to the woman, quirking a brow over at Catey and then looked back to Glo with a smile.

"Marek, Glo. We'll need stew and rooms, I think." Catalina grinned between Glo and Marek.

"Rooms, with company or without, hon?" Glo smiled invitingly and friendly to Marek. "And a bottle of something?? Then she turned to Catey. "You can have Benji's." Then she turned her head toward the curtain and called with a slightly raised voice. "Get Benji's key for Catey, Rex, and a couple bowls of stew." Then she smiled to Marek again.

?Benji's?? Marek quirked a brow between them. ?Stew sounds fine... nothing fancy bottle wise. Good water would do just fine darlin.?

"Benji's the general that disappeared along with Dax." Catalina explained flatly.

"Benji was Catey's boy friend." Glo filled in what Catey wouldn't say, then called to the curtain again. "And get some water, be sure it's drinkable."

?Um... yeah... okay. Benji? I knew a dog like that on? never mind?? Marek nodded between them, trying to understand. Catalina shot Marek a glare and then just shook her head. ?So... staying the night eh??

"Why don't you two have a seat? I'll be right back with that stew." Glo cast a smile to both and then moved to behind the curtain, hips swinging seductively.

"Benjamin and Dax are likely worse than dead. Here that's called 'missing'. No one ever goes missing for months at a time and lives." Catalina took a seat at one of the tables. The thought that they were now unliving as wings, bones or stiffs and doing the bidding of the necromancers unless someone had destroyed them bothered her to no end and made her eyes sting.

?I see.? Marek glanced after the swaying hips and nodded absently over at Catey. ?Well, hopefully we don't go 'missing' while here.? He glanced about the quiet and mostly empty place. ?So... we're alone kinda. What's the first plan for this mission of yours? Where do we head after here??

"One of the places that the bounty hunter stumbled across a mentioning off. It's in an area that used to belong to the other side. Now it's this side, a bit behind front lines." Catey took off her pack and sat it beside her chair, glad for the change of subject.

?I see. You trust this bounty hunter right?? Marek slid his pack off his shoulders and settled gently aside to a chair with a nod to her.

"I've no reason not to. Do you?" She grinned then. "Maybe a name would help, Lang Darkwing."

?Oh? know of him, never met personally, but seen of him. Heard he was more then the sum of his parts, if you get my meaning.? Marek took up a lean against the bar. They'd been sitting on a dragon saddle, he wasn't about to sit for a bit.

"I think I'll agree with that summary." Catalina grinned, remembering her first meeting of Lang and him telling her that he was a demon. She would enjoy sitting for as much as she might, the chair was definitely preferable to a dragon back, mostly because it stood absolutely still.

?We're pretty safe inside here for now, for the night?? Marek looked about the place again. ?How early do you want to leave in the morning??

Glo took that moment to return. She set a glass of water, a bowl of stew and a junk of bread on the counter where Marek stood, smiling wide to him.

"There you go. Holler if you want more." Then she carried a second bowl and a lableless bottle what may be whiskey over to the table Catey sat at, swaying her hips just knowing Marek would watch.

"There, eat up." Then she pulled a key from a pocket and set it by Catey's bowl. With a nod over her shoulder to Marek she asked, "Sure you don't want to take that one with you?"

"Yeah, I'm sure." Catalina chuckled to Glo, a little surprised that Glo would ask her for permission. Then she turned to Marek, still grinning. "Sunup."

Catalina started to eat as Glo slinked back over to the bar and Marek.

?All right? sun up.? Marek nodded over at Catey with a smile. Then he turned slightly to start on the stew as broke a bit of bread free.

"I hope it's to your liking." Glo nodded at Marek's bowl before she smiled up from his hands to his face. Catalina glanced over as she ate.

?It's just fine darlin. No worries.? He issued a wink to Glo with a smile to Catey as he soaked up a bit of the stew with the bread, eyes looking over the place again.

"Sooo...." Glo looked Marek over ever so suggestively. "What kind of room will you be wanting? Got a nice big bed in my room I'd not mind sharing."

Catalina grinned and seemed to pay attention to her stew.

?Depends? what am I paying for food currently?? His brows quirked upwards. Then his eyes moved over at Catey. She seemed to pay attention to her stew. He dipped another bit of bread after breaking a little bit off the bigger chunk. His eyes slid back at Glo and he looked her over.

"You're with Catey, so room and board's paid for." Glo smiled and shifted to better display her attributes for Marek?s perusal. When he looked up again she gave him a well practiced pout and an equally well practiced semi-hurt look. "Of course, if you'd rather wait a bit and have a look at the girls..."

Catalina just quietly finished off her stew and bread, then washed it down with a sip from the bottle.

?Rest of the girls? How many are about here? Besides your lovely self I mean.? Marek?s brow arched again as he reached for his glass of water on the bar and shifted his lean against it slightly.

"Ah, one of those... how many would you like?" Glo reached over to take a drop of stew from the corner of his mouth that wasn't there.

Finished with her meal Catalina stood up, taking the key and the bottle in one hand and picked up her pack with the other.

"Have fun you two and get some sleep Marek. I'll see you in the morning." Catalina headed out the door and around the porch. Just in time, too, because she could hear the warriors come in, though she couldn't see them yet.

?All right... Take care Catalina. I'll be up and ready.? Marek cast a nod over at her with a smile. Then he quirked back at Glo with her touch. ?How much is your bed again to share? I'm new in town.?

"A bauble for you." Glo grinned generously and touched the finger to her lips.

?Bauble? Hm... local coin eh? So I get charged to share a bed with you eh? Even if it would mean I wouldn't be sharing a bed with one of those other ladies you mentioned?? Marek shifted his lean against the bar.

"The local coins are called marks and the girls take anywhere from ten to thirty of those. I prefer the shiny bits of jewelry." Glo shook her head, grinning.

?Hm... what if I promised you a few shiny bits of jewelry after I get done with this little objective our mutual friend Catalina has me on??

Glo seemed to consider that for a moment. He was certainly handsome and the suggestion was tempting. Then she leaned in, cupping his cheek in her hand.

"What if I promised you a long night if you get back?"

?You could... but what do I do for a bed tonight?? Marek smirked a bit, lifting his glass for a drink as eyes glanced around and then back at her slowly.

Glo moved around the bar then and reaching under it pulled up a key. "Tell you what, you take this key here, and if you think sharing sounds better after all, you'll let me know." She winked to him and then looked to the commotion at the door.

"Start filling bowls." She called back toward the curtain then.

Marek took the key and looked it over before he slid it into a pocket on his leather jacket. He gave a glance over at the incoming noise and lifted his glass again for a drink. His mind worked out a few scenes. It didn't take long at all for the inn to fill up with warriors, all wearing more or less armor, smelling none too clean, and were generally loud and rambunctious. Glo's girls coming in to mingle didn't make the men adjust there language at all.

Oh goody, company, Marek thought with a shift of a brow about, feeling like he had stopped in to get a meal at a local place down the street from a movie set and all the soldier extras just came in during lunch break. He took another drink of water before he settled it down on the bar.

After most had some stew, the din grew louder. Glo and a couple of tenders were busy pouring ale and handing out bottles. The scuffles were short and usually limited to two or four for now. The girls quickly found necks to hang on or laps to sit on.

Moving to take up his pack and sling over a shoulder, Marek reached into his leather jacket to feel the key again and then he moved to look for a room.

"To the right, third from the corner." Glo looked over then, hoping that he?d ask where her room was.

?Thank you!? Marek paused and glanced back over a shoulder and nodded. He nodded to himself as he moved off to find his room, accessible from the wrap around porch. He counted out with his index finger the third door from the corner. He slid the key out of his leather jacket and worked to unlock and push the door on open in turn.

The room was a simple one. A narrow bed, a table with a wash bowl on it, a trunk at the foot of the bed. He settled the bag down carefully next to the trunk on the flooring. With a light roll of his shoulders against the leather jacket then he stretched a bit. He rubbed the back of his neck as looked over the place.

?Hm... just like camping.? He smirked to himself as moved to sit on the bed. The noise from the inn would be heard for a while. And there would be more noise once the warriors made their way to their rooms, with or without girls.

?Just like staying in downtown Seattle on a weekend.? He smirked some, slid his leather jacket off and settled it over the large pack on the floor by the trunk. Lying back on the bed with an adjustment to the leather holster, he looked about the room slowly.

East Camp

Catalina didn't slow her pace again until they reached the edge of the camp. The camp consisted of enough tents to house perhaps five hundred troops. The mood in the camp seemed subdued. It was difficult to imagine these industrious and quiet warriors could turn into the boisterous crowd they had seen at the inn the evening before. Catalina nodded to a few of those they passed as she led Marek to the center of the camp where a few larger tents were set up. But she did not stop to talk with anyone.

"Thanks." Was all she said to the warrior who handed Marek and her each a stick with roasted meat on it just before he doused the fire he had taken the sticks from. She did smile to him, though. Marek nodded to the man giving them food:

?Well, so far? friendly about here and mostly quiet.? Marek looked over the meat with a curious brow, least it was cooked.

"Barell?" Catalina asked when she halted her steps in front of one of the larger tents at the center of camp. When the warrior turned around to face her, she smiled. "Hail camp and congrats on your most recent promotion."

"Catey! Good evening, and thanks, I think. You made it just with the last rays of light. Again." Barell cast a curious look over to Marek before he looked to Catey again. "You got a packet?"

"No, not this time, and I'm not taking any reports back either. That's Marek, my partner for this mission. Can you make room for us for the night?" Catalina then took a bite from the meat on the stick.

Marek gave pause and looked over those about and then at the man Catey was speaking to. He gave a nod of his head and kept back a pace to let them figure things out while he took in the scenery and the people. The warriors were for the most part busy with strapping on bits of leather and metal armor and checking their weapons.

"Good evening and welcome to camp, Marek." Barell nodded over to him and then turned back to Catey. "Give me a few minutes and I've a tent cleaned out for you. Partner ey, and here I thought someone finally agreed to the idea of training couriers before sending them out on their own."

?Pleasure... I'm sure.? Marek nodded to the man. His gaze moved between the pair and then about them.

"You don't snore, do you?" Catalina turned to Marek with a grin while Barell turned to one of the warriors already dressed for battle to issue the according order.

?Not that I know of... no worries mate.?

"You can rest here for a moment. Someone will come show you which tent they cleaned out. Me you'll have to excuse. We're about to get busy." Barell offered a nod to each of them when he turned toward them again. He picked his helmet from a tent post. "Maybe there's time for more of a chat before you head out." With another nod he pushed the helmet over his head and hurried off.

"You can sit if you like. I think I'll keep standing for now. Once I sit down I may not want to get up again." Catalina grinned over to Marek before she took another bite of what she considered dinner.

?Looks like we're bedding down among the gents tonight.? Marek nodded after the man, gaze sweeping about. ?Hopefully we'll sleep even if they're noisy in rest. I'm good... once I sit down might want to stay there a few.?

"Out here it's not the gents I'm worried about. You kept up pretty good all day." She took the last bit of meat from the stick and chewed.

?Yeah... trouble all abouts...? Marek nodded a bit as he tried the meat. ?When are we parting in the morning... first light or noonish??

"Tomorrow when exactly we leave here won't make much of a difference. We'll be caught outside after dark either way. Did you want to have a look at what's out there while the warriors deal with them or can you wait finding out until tomorrow night?" The camp was kept fairly dark. Small fires had been set outside the camp, to attract the night creatures away from camp where the warriors on duty were prepared to deal with them.

?Maybe I best wait until tomorrow for more surprises. I'm a bit worn out from out large walk today.? He chuckled and then smirked some with a nod of his head at her. ?An interesting vacation so far.?

"I'm glad you're enjoying yourself." Catalina grinned, but nowhere near as easily as Marek was used to seeing from her from Rhydin. "That's probably best. I do feel for these guys, each hoping they wont face a creature that looks like someone they fought side by side with and got taken and hoping next week it wont be them going after a comrade." She shook her head then, as if she could dislodge the thought with the gesture.

?A lovely thought to go to bed tonight with. I'll try to think about sheep.? Marek smirked a bit and glanced about as finished off the meat from the stick. The center of camp had turned quiet. ?More scenic views tomorrow??

"The third'n over's ready for ye." A warrior in just leather armor waved at one of the tents behind Catalina and a moment later was gone again between the tents.

"Sheep? Shouldn't that be a pretty woman and a castle?" Catalina started to move toward the tent assigned to them. "Scenic views, right. I'm afraid it'll be pretty much more of the same. No one tries to live or farm out this way. We may come across one or the other carrion eater. Hopefully that's as interesting as it'll get during daylight."

?I don't think I'll find a pretty girl here. Just a little sleep before dawn creeps over the horizon.? Marek nodded after the appearing and quickly disappearing man before his eyes moved back at Catalina.

"No, no ugly ones either. Glo might take her girls to a camp, but never to one that expects trouble." Catalina grinned, totally ignoring that anyone could think of her as belonging to either category.

"Are you coming?" She called back to Marek after having taken a few steps.

?Sorry, was thinking about your friend Glo a moment there.? Marek moved after her with a nod of his head and perked a smirk as he moved along glancing about. ?So these guys are expecting trouble then??

"Glo had that effect on a few." Catalina grinned and took off her pack before she slipped into the tent. "Aye, and they just had some trouble, too, to judge by how quiet they are."

Marek nodded and then slid his pack off one shoulder as he ventured into the tent with a duck of his head. Catalina dropped her pack into a far corner and lowered herself to a sitting position to the ground with a sigh.

"Sitting can be such a luxury." She chuckled. "Do you see a spot you prefer for bedding down?"

?This'll work, just fine. I'm not picky. Least have a roof... of sorts.? He settled his pack down with a glance about the tent as he lowered down to sit and then lay back with his head to the pack

"If you're sure." Catalina reached for her pack and took out the canteen and the bedroll. Then she snickered as she transferred a couple of items from her jacket into the pack. She had come across the candle they had joked about back in Rhydin.

?I'm sure... usually pretty easy?? He smirked and shifted some against the flooring of the tent as rested his head back and laid his arms over his chest.

"This might be the best chance all week to see about that candlelight." Catalina grinned over to Marek.

?Among all these brutes, I don't think that'd be wise to pull out.? Marek chuckled with a glance over.

"Maybe not." Catalina sat her pack aside and, once she had unbuckled and set aside the gun, stretched out on top of roll and blanket. Those ?brutes? would be busy this night. But Marek would find out soon enough unless he was a really sound sleeper. "Sweet dreams."

?Night darlin... see ya in the morn.?

Catalina listened to the sounds of battle that sprung up from one edge of the camp or another for what seemed to her like hours even as she forced herself to relax and to breathe evenly. Knowing that it was save to sleep in camp did little to calm her instincts.

She must have drifted off to sleep eventually though, because her next conscious observation after keeping up with the number of skirmishes was an officer's voice ordering fires to be lit. Here that was as if someone announced the sun was coming up just before it happened.

Catalina blinked her eyes open then and stretched. A moment later she sat up and reached for her canteen. After a few gulps of water she dampened an edge of her blouse and washed her face. She glanced over to Marek as she put up the canteen again.

?Are we ready yet?? A smirk perked Marek?s lips as he opened his eyes and glanced over to Catey. Dressed and his pack good to go, he lay against it with his head. ?They were busy last night sounded like. But got a few hours in.?

"Good morning and no. Are you in a hurry?" Catalina shook her head and chuckled. She turned to pack up as she answered Marek's other question. "No busier than usual the nights after a bigger battle. They'll need a Golden to come by sometime during the day to turn their efforts over the night time hours into permanent success."

?No hurry, just ready to move out when you are is all. Long walk again today?? Marek sat up and stretched his arms some. He glanced about and returned his gaze to her. ?Goldens always so helpful??

"Good. I need to ...take care of some urgent business before we head out. Today's walk won't be quite as long as yesterday. If everything goes as planned we may even have time for a nap before nightfall." Catalina found one of the rolls from the day before and took a bite out of it as she closed her pack. The roll between her teeth she picked up the holstered gun and, standing up, buckled it on. She removed the roll from between her teeth again once she had her hands free to do so and grinned over to Marek.

"Helpful? They are for the most part a pain...uhm, allies...that's what I meant to say. Just because they refrain from considering you food doesn't make them respect you. You're lucky to only have met Lox so far. He's the most decent of the race I've met beside the king. You may have noticed that there's not much fire wood around."

?Oh good? I look forward then to not meeting many of these dragons about here then.? Marek nodded over as he stood and worked out his legs a bit in a stretch. ?All right? well, you just say when and we can head off for point C then.?

"Would you like to check what they've to offer this morning at the fire places in the way of food?" She picked up her pack then.

?Do I want to? Am I going to like what I find? He slid his pack on a shoulder and shifted the weight as he moved to exit the tent and have a look about outside.

"Probably...Grouse and rabbit is what they find most often. If anyone feels up to bothering this morning there might even be something like stone bread or flat cakes. Warriors rarely go hungry." Catalina followed Marek outside and looked around. The general mood seemed to be somewhat less subdued this morning in comparison to what it had been the previous evening. "Give me about fifteen minutes. I'll find you."

?All right... don't wander off?? Marek nodded to her once with a smirk before he moved off to gather up a few things as he adjusted the pack on his back. He found a few fires burning and food about. The warriors gave Marek curious looks and friendly greetings along with offers of whatever they had cooking.

With a nod about to those offering greeting, Marek fed himself first and with a measured pace of quickness, before taking what he could that would survive for a bit and packing it away in side pockets of his backpack. Then he made up a plate for Catey. When she caught back up with him she was smiling somewhat triumphantly and carrying to metal cups.

"Hail and good morning." She greeted the group as she thrust one off those cups toward Marek with a grin. "Look what I found."

?Should I ask?? He took the cup driven his way and in turn offered her up the food he'd gathered for her to eat as lifted the cup for a testing drink. It looked like milk and didn?t taste like it came from a cow.

"Someone brought a goat along. What they?re feeding it is anyone's guess." Catalina grinned after she had taken a drink from the other cup. Then she looked curiously at the plate Marek had handed her. "What do you have there?"

?Your breakfast and lunch in one...? Marek smirked, nodding to the cup. ?I didn't know what you wanted to eat before walking? so gathered a little of everything they had. Have a few cakes in the pack for later with a break. Goats? milk ain't so bad. Better then soy milk for sure.?

"Thanks. Soy? What kind of animal is that?" She smiled to him before she started eating, transferring the now half empty cup to the same hand holding the plate to do so.

A couple of the warriors turned their heads, obviously curious about this soy animal, too.

?Soy milk... like a ... better for your health kind of milk? but made, not produced by an animal really. Kinda complicated. Either way, the stuff tastes funny and doesn't go well with your morning breakfast.? Marek held up the cup. ?This, is better then it, trust me.?

Catalina grinned while the warriors laughed and shook their heads. She turned to the one most likely to have been the 'baker' this morning - he still had flour dust on his pants.

"Thanks, these are pretty good." She waved the flat cake at him with a smile before she took another bite out of it. Then she turned to Marek again. "How are your legs and feet this morning? Do you think you can keep yesterday's pace?"

?I can try.? He shifted the pack on his back slightly again for a better fit and nodded some as set the cup down after finishing it. He perked a grin then. ?More amazing sights to see today, right??

"Right." Catalina chuckled. "Come see the amazing scenery of Dragon's Eye. Discover new shades of brown and grey you never imagined, enjoy the endless views, marvel at the local wild live"

The warriors were laughing. One threw in "Ye forgot t'mention t'colorful natives." He added something describing said natives and the Goldens in too colorful a language to repeat here.

?I've seen'em.? Marek gave a nod over to the comment. ?A few at least... no doubt to find more as we venture further, indeed.?

?After you, when you're ready then doll face. Time to enjoy some more of the landscape here.? Marek said with a light chuckled and a nod to Catey as she finished off what was on the plate and washed it down with the rest of the goat milk.

"I'm ready now." She smiled to Marek after she had thanked the warrior who collected the used dishes and pointed vaguely east. "We're going that way."

?Off to see the wizard?? Marek muttered with a smile as he turned and headed off in the desired direction. He hummed a bit as he moved on, his eyes watchful for the coming day.

"I hope we do not meet any of the mages along the way. That would be bad." Catalina nodded to a few of the warriors they passed as the headed out of camp.

Dinner

"Perhaps. What do you think your calling is since you moved to Rhydin? Do you have one of those guns handy?" Catalina came to her feet. Rather then heading out though she moved with careful steps toward one of the bushes a little bit away from where they had been sitting, her eyes on the ground.

?Maybe... what's on the radar?? He gave pause when she mentioned a gun and he quietly slid a hand below his leather jacket. His eyes shifted about slowly.

"Dinner." She had found what she was looking for. She pointed to the ground a few yards away from where she now stood and very pointed stomped a booted foot a few times. A second later two brown shapes streaked from roughly the spot she had pointed at.

?You want me to shoot those things?? Drawing the Five-seveN pistol from its holster below his leather jacket, Marek slid his finger in brush of the trigger in the same moment as the weapon came upwards with lighting fast reflexes, due to the 'work' back home. Brown on brown, whatever was to be dinner would become impossible to spot once it sat still.

"Yes." Catalina kept her eyes on the fast moving rabbits.

A quick pull by Marek, tap of the trigger once... twice? a third time to ensure the second was taken out as the armor piercing rounds zipped through the air and met their marks, and the rabbits quit moving.

"Let's go see if those bullets are like arrows or not." Catalina grinned over to Marek and then headed for where she made out the blurs of brown last.

Marek picked up his bag to slip over a shoulder as moved after her, keeping the gun out for now as he glanced around at the ground.

"Hah, found one." Catalina bent to pick up the first of the rabbits by its rather short for a rabbit ears. "Five pounds and edible once cleaned and cooked." She judged. "Better find the other one, too."

?Hard to find around here, or just quick to catch?? Marek quirked brow and then nodded some with a smirk as he tucked the pistol away below his leather jacket and looked about the ground for the other.

"If you know where to find a burrow, they're easy dinner. Otherwise they could sit in circles around you and snicker and you'd never see them." Catalina grinned. "They heard us coming to their water hole and they took cover until they thought their burrow was about to cave in."

?Well, like most things, you hear something dangerous coming you scatter.? Marek lowered to grab the other up by the short ears and examined it before he tossed it her direction. ?Catch!?

"Are you saying you don't know how to prep them?" Catalina caught the roast to be with her free hand.

?You didn't hire me as a cook.? He smirked and winked over to her. ?I'm just security darlin.? He chuckled gently and sent her another wink. ?If I was going to be cooking, I would have brought my bar-b-q spice rack.?

"You may yet wish you had." She chuckled and pulled a length of cord from one of her pant pockets. The only thing she had in her pack for flavoring was a bit of salt and as far as she had seen nothing grew around here yet that could be used to supplement the meal or add flavor. Once she had the two rabbits tied together for easy carrying she glanced over to Marek again. "Well, for now, thanks for protecting me from these viscous rodents."

?Just doing my job doll.? He gave her a smirk as he moved after her with his pack.

"Right. Ready to move on? I'd love to study the layout before dark. Makes for less stumbling about later."

?Sure thing...? Marek slid his pack over his shoulders and adjusted, following her lead with a glance about. ?Not sure being out at night is good...?

"It's not. So, what's that stuff you can't change just yet that had you so depressed a few nights back?" She asked curiously once they headed east again.

?Just life. It has a way of giving you grief when you don't need it ya know?? He parked a smirk aside to her. ?If it's not one thing it's another I swear.?

"What grief has it given you?" She looked over to him.

?Name it... I've probably had something close to it. Love found, then lost. Happiness found, then lost. Good times that never last. Unhappily ending stories. I've learned you shouldn't get too comfortable with life, it's bound to change and if it can for the worse then it just might do that on ya.? He finished with a nod.

"But you had all of them for a time. That's a good thing, isn't it? You also said you could change some things eventually. What did you mean by that?"

?Not sure at times... someday I feel like getting stuff done that needs to? other days? don't feel like it's worth getting out of bed for ya know??

"No, not really. I always thought it best to enjoy living while alive." She shook her head slightly as she thought about those weeks or months were she didn?t even bother finding a bed. "Not so much so when Benji disappeared. I was being pretty stupid there for a while, I think."

?Don't we all do something stupid at least once in life?? He nodded over as he moved with her. ?Had people disappear in my life, too. Some to find again, others, not to know where life took them.?

"Mhm, too much whiskey and taking too many risks, not a good combination.? She definitely harbored a death wish there for a while. ?What did happiness look like for you?"

?Wife and children.? Marek replied with a light nod of his head as they walked. ?How far is it to the next spot on our list to visit did you say??

"You've been married and have children?" That definitely surprised her. Marek did not strike her at all like a family man. But then, how would she know? It wasn?t like she knew any of the type. "Not so far, feel like running?" She certainly felt like running still every time Benji came up in a conversation.

?I was...? He adjusted his pack some on his back. ?Sure... bit of a sprint for a bit would be good.?

"You set the pace this time then." She nodded over to him. There was one thing Dragon's Eye and the courier job had going for it, lots of room to run.

Marek nodded aside to her and started off slow to get into a rhythm as his eyes kept watch about them and ahead for the venture. Catalina kept pace, and since he stuck with heading East even let him stay a few steps ahead of her.

?You really? need to invest in some horses or something... He chuckled some as they slowed down again, glancing back at her and then about toward the horizon.

"Why?" She slowed down when he did, and then once again walked next to him. They should stumble upon what was left of Vergalles any moment now. But something bothered her and settled as a feeling of dread in the pit of her stomach. "I do not like riding, horses are exceptionally stupid, they need a ton of food and enormous amounts of water, with a rider they make one a bigger and easier to spot at a distance target, they really aren't that much faster than me, and when they're spooked they run off, possibly with something you've desperate need of to deal with whatever made them run."

?Camel?? He gave a smirk aside to her as he caught his breath. ?We'll have to work on your Golden friend carrying a bike next time.?

"Right, what does a bike 'eat'?" Logistics could be a pain. There should be more green here, she thought.

?Nothing...? He grinned. ?Machine that you ride upon. Like a wagon... but smaller and faster.?

"So you're not talking about the roaring ones some leave outside the red dragon where others leave their horses? What makes them faster? A wagon without someone or something to pull it just stands around, you know." She grinned back.

?They're fast. I'll show you sometime.? He nodded and smirked a bit to her. ?Say... speaking about roaring ones and faster... how about on our way back to that shack we started at... you put in a good word for me with Glo and I'll call that payment??

"Payment for what?" Catalina grinned.

?Uh huh...? He chuckled.

"Seriously, you probably don't need anyone putting in a good word for you with Glo, and I don't mind at all." Catalina grinned over. Suddenly Catalina stopped and looked down, moving a foot. Marek chuckled with a nod of his head, then gave pause and looked down as well.

?What??

"We're here, more or less. That's a brick, and where there is one there should be others." Then she lifted her gaze and scanned the ground them, taking several steps one way and then another.

"Tada. A fire place." She called out a moment after she moved around one of the boulders that still littered the landscape. Marek glanced about, moving with her slowly, careful in their movements.

?Here eh?? What she called a fire place looked actually very little like one. Though the bricks or shards of them that were still left and visible above the dirt roughly described the outline of what may have been the hearth of a house ages ago.

"Yes. This is where I'll search and we'll spend the night." It was the most likely place to still find anything. But here, too, grass should have grown by now. Its absence worried her. She nodded over to a small group of more dead than alive looking trees. "Those should provide some firewood. Does getting wood fall in with security detail?"

?I could do that...? He gave her a smirk as he moved off to gather up the fire wood. His gaze swept over their surroundings as he moved. Boulders stood around aplenty, grass was sparse, and disappointingly little of the ?ruins? were visible above ground.

Catalina was excited and now that they were here and wanted to do nothing more than to start poking around. But setting up camp had to come first. She decided on a spot a decent distance away from the ancient hearth.

"You could leave your pack here. And if you don't need me along to find your way there and back I can have dinner ready to put on a stick by the time we've a fire going." She slipped the pack from her back and settled it to the ground where she stood, setting the two rabbits next to it. Marek settled his pack down with a nod and wink.

?This'll take a few minutes? nothing longer trust me.? A grin perked his lips as he moved for the trees.

"No hurry." Catalina grinned after him as she sat down and pulled a knife from her boot. Then she concentrated on dressing the rabbits.

Marek moved off toward the indicated trees. He closed his left hand into a fist and slipped it out at his side as three retractable handblades shot out in a curving arch from the back of his hand. With a sweep of his hand the blades sliced through the slender, sickly and partially charred looking trees knocking them to the ground one by one, then slicing and dicing them up into stackable short logs.

By the time Marek returned with firewood and a couple of green sticks to pit the rabbit roasts on Catalina had them skinned and cleaned, lightly salted, and ready to go.

Marek handed the sticks to Catalina before he set to starting a fire, Taking a fire kit from his pack and stacking a few logs. He struck up a match and dripped a bit of fluid onto the logs? before a flame flickered and came to life.

"Great job! And so fast, too." Catalina chuckled, still working the second of the rabbits onto a stick. "Almost as fast as a Golden. Thank you."

Catalina then threw the none edible rabbit parts into the fire and waited for the flames to settle down a little before she propped the rabbits over the fire. Marek nodded as he lowered down to rest a moment, his eyes moving about and then back at the flames as they flickered with the inedible rabbit pieces.

?Just like camping.? He smirked.

"Right, just like camping, with really lively ghost stories after dark." Catalina chuckled, but she was more than a little worried about those 'lively ghost stories' and there was no mirth in her laughter. "There's not as much grass around as there should be."

?Maybe another group marched through this way and tore up the ground a bit. Lot of foot traffic does that.? Marek offered an explanation.

"That is possible." She looked around some more from where she was sitting, trying to understand what the appearance of the land around them was trying to tell her. At least the boulders were still numerous. A legion moving through would have upset the new grass around the spring as well, though. Then she looked over to Marek again. "Do you have another story to tell while we wait for the food to cook or would you rather use the time for a nap? It'll be at least an hour before enough of it is cooked to slice off for eating."

?Well... what type of story do you want to hear?? He shifted down some to lay on the ground and prop himself up against his large pack. ?I don't have any real romance stories to tell... but I might be able to remember a few stories of other varieties.?

"I like those with something to make one laugh in them, but any you'd like to share will do." She smiled over to him and away from the area she wanted to search.

?Hmm... well, not too sure what might be fun to laugh at but I'm sure can think of something to tell.? He shifted against the large pack as he got comfortable somewhat while he thought. ?On a run? err, mission, one time I shot an orc in a shoot out we had against his group. He ended up losing the arm due to the wound and loss of blood. Three years later, my team met up with his again on opposite sides of the objective. He ended up losing his other hand. He sells cars now I think...?

"Unlucky fellow. Amazing though that he keeps bouncing back." She pondered the story for a moment as she checked on the roasting meat and poked at the fire, adding a couple of smaller logs. "Not a funny story, unless I'm missing something."

?No... Not too funny, except for the fact that apparently running the shadows wasn't the best choice of job for him. And he should of quite when he was ahead... with one hand at least.? Marek glanced over to her.

"Perhaps he didn't think that he could. Something I've been meaning to ask but never had the opportunity..." Her gaze lowered from his face to his hands. "How did you end up with those blades in your hands? I trust you weren't born with them."

?Nope... where I come from... people can get 'upgrades' to their bodies. Quicker reflexes when need them. Better hearing if you want it. Better eyes. Replaced organs and hidden... weapons.? He smirked over at her and rubbed his hands together for a moment.

"Hmm...So you just went 'shopping' for them?" Then she chuckled. "And here I thought Glo's girls were crazy about to what lengths they go to look different. Are those 'toys' a kind of status symbol?"

?Not exactly...? He lifted his right hand from his lap, the three handblades sprung forth from the back of his hand in soft arch forward. ?There're different levels, grades. These for example, are rated at severing bone. One of the highest ratings for handblades. I could slice through a door or a person in a few seconds. I've also undergone a procedure years ago for something called 'bone lacing' where cellular structure of one's bones are augmented with reinforcing plastics and metals to improve the bone's integrity and tensile strength. Lacing makes the bones almost unbreakable by conventional standards, but given a bad blow they could still break with enough force. I've got the highest grade... titanium.?

"Interesting... I get the handblades, they sound ever so useful. But the bones... do broken bones happen a lot in your line of work?" She studied the blades now that she was given a chance to look at them for more than a second or two. "Does pulling them out and retracting them cause pain to you?"

?Yeah? injury is quite common back where I come from.? He glanced to her and then the blades with a turn of his hand in the fire light. ?Every time.?

"Sorry. They're oddly beautiful, though... kind of like nature should have thought of it. May I?" She reached out to touch a knuckle, where the blades seemed to 'grow' out of.

?Yeah... just be careful of the underside? quite sharp.? He gave a light nod over as he slid his hand out. ?I've also got a few filtration system replacements. Like a replacement trachea. So smoke and gases don't bother me while on a run? err, mission. So basically, I can smoke them cigars of mine for years and not worry about any effect. I've also got a replacement kidney filter system. To help remove foreign agents from my bloodstream.?

"Nifty." She made a thorough study of his hand. "Do those upgrades have downsides, too?"

?Sometimes... but you don't think about it. When you work in the shadows doing things you just keep your mind focused on living until the next dawn.? He cast a wink over at her, the three handblades suddenly retracted back into his hand.

"Thank you." Catalina let go of Marek's hand after she had watched the blades retract, his hand once again looking like the blades didn't exist, and then smiled up to him. "For satisfying my curiosity and for trusting me with all those secrets."

She turned toward the fire again and turned another side of the roasting meat into the heat before she stoked the coals and added another piece of wood.

?Everyone needs a friend or two where they travel.? He shifted against his pack on the ground. ?What does Seamus do for fun? Besides make furniture and make you smile that is.?

"He bought that house and is gradually turning the land around it into a ranch. That should keep him busy for a while. And he got a wolf pup to keep him distracted so he doesn't just do manual labor. He can cook, too." Just talking about Seamus made her smile. "Do you know anything about werewolves?"

?Actually, I do.? A smile perked his lips. ?I've met a few people since arrived in Rhydin... one was a guy that has a wife and several kids he said. Spacer type. Owns a company called Zodiac Enterprises. I guess he's some werewolf high class or matured species.? He gave a light shrug of his shoulders, trying to remember the conversation they'd had.

?Seems a nice guy. Has good taste I think... I liked his boots. Made out of alligator.? Marek perked a smirk.

"Are his kids werewolves too?" She had to chuckle at the comment about the boots.

?Some... he's married to a weretiger species. She sounds like quite the looker in human form.? Marek chuckled. ?I guess some of children can shift to wolf, others to tiger form. Sounds like an interesting family. There're all types to meet back in Rhydin in that city and about and about its walls. You and Seamus gonna live together in that ranch house when he's done??

"Maybe. He hasn't asked." She gave a little shrug and checked on the roasting meet again. "Probably for the best. This mess here is far from solved and the way it is I couldn't retire and do that anyway."

?Never know... worlds are weird places to find things. Hard to say what might happen tomorrow or the following week.?

"True. I guess we could check what's edible now and then go see if we can find something now." She reached the knife from her boot again and started to slice pieces off the first of the two roasts.

?Gonna be a quiet night you think about here?? Marek asked with a light nod as he adjusted against the large pack behind him.

"No, it will not be quiet." She handed over a handful of slices and then moved to the second roast to slice off what was cooked now. "Do you believe in sleeping in shifts?"

?Sure... we can sleep in shifts?? Marek nodded over at her as he tested a piece in his mouth of the meat. ?You pick, first or second...?

"First for staying awake." She grinned and started nibbling on the meat. The question had been meant as a joke. Perhaps next time, if there?d be a next time, he?d laugh should she ask again.

?All right?? Marek nibbled on the meat and worked it down as he kept a watch about them with a slow roaming gaze over the landscape. ?How far to the next point on our list of lovely places to visit??

"After here, unless we find a good reason to squeeze in another short trip, we head back." Catalina glanced up and at the sun before she looked to Marek again. "We should have enough light left to let the meat cook some more and poke around a bit. Once it gets dark you'll want to be comfortable on one of the boulders a good bit away from the fire."

?I understand? went on a retreat of sorts to a place back home out in the wilderness with a decent amount of predators about. We stayed up high to be out of their reach.? He nodded.

"Tonight's trouble will come from the ground, attracted by warmth. The bones and the stiffs will go to the fire first. The wings catch on faster." Catalina picked up a narrow piece of wood that has not made it into the fire yet as she nibbled on another piece of meet and got to her feet.

Change of Schedule

Catalina lay where she had fallen, unable to move. The wind had been knocked out of her quite thoroughly and her lungs burned. The wing leaned over her then and ? reached into her pockets? She held her breath on purpose now, ignoring the burning need for air. Some part of her was surprised that the wing had not bitten her yet. By everything she?d witnessed of a wing attack and knew of them, she should have been dead by now.

Her fingers searched the ground for the gun. It had not dropped close to her. Wrapping her hand around the grip she found the trigger she brought up the barrel a few inches and hoping for the best fired a couple of quick shots.

Marek turned his gun toward the sound of gunfire and, aiming high to keep from hitting Catey, he fired off a quick spray of four rounds. An "Umph" from Catey followed the piercing scream from the creature. Then Catey shoved off the for now unmoving creature. Getting its hand out of her pocket was a bit more complicated to judge by her muttering.

?Ugly... nasty... need to die...? Marek shifted on the rock. With several bursts of fire from the weapon in his hands, he cut down several nasty looking things that moved about near the flame.

Catalina, having dislodged that hand from her pocket, worked to pry that hand open, careful not to cut herself on those claws. Whatever it was that thing wanted of the shards she had picked up earlier, had to be important and she wasn?t about to let that thing have it.

"Oh no, you're not." She interrupted trying to get to the shard the thing was holding on to so tightly when it moved again. She took up the gun again and fired two more rounds into it.

Marek cut down movement, before giving pause and looking about from his point upon the giant rock. His gaze slowly swept the area as his ears listened. With the wing currently incapacitated the rotten corpses were slow to catch on and it took a while for each that was still moving around to make up its mind which source of heat to go for.

"We're leaving here as soon as have its hand open." Catalina called over to Marek. It was too dangerous to stay now. Wings were controlled directly if they were controlled. There was no point in waiting for a necromancer to show up or to see what else he might come up with. Anyway, there would be no sense in searching the area some more in daylight now.

Marek took up his pack and slid it upon his shoulders and, securing it, worked his way down from his point and to the ground.

?Ready to part this lovely setting for another?? He cut down several moving things near the flames to his left and right.

"Almost." Catalina pried a second finger of the tight fist of the wing open. It had taken some doing, but finally she had freed a shard of something and a bit of string from the wing's hand. She shoved both into an inside jacket pocket and picked up her gun as she got to her feet. Then she sprinted over to where she had stowed her pack.

?How about we find a quieter place to lie to rest hm?? A spray of bullets from his gun cut down a few movements to the side to keep those creatures from reaching Catey.

"Daylight would be good.? Catalina pulled the pack from the boulder and quickly settled it to her back, shifting the gun from hand to the other in the process, even as she turned back toward Marek ?The spring may just be far enough away to await daylight there."

?Lead the way?? He kept his weapon posed in his hands as he kept watch of the now previous camp site as he moved to meet up with her.

"I suggest double time for a bit." Catalina pulled up next to him. "Makes it more difficult for the ground to catch your ankles, too."

?Oh fun...? Marek picked up their retreating pace some, though the weapon in hand was held quite close and ready to use as they moved off. Catey kept her gun out, too, and held it aimed five or six steps ahead of her.

"Did that feel like an ambush to you?" She asked once she slowed to a walk. "Were they stupider than usual because of the noise or because of the controlling mage being relatively far away or not so well practiced?"

?Not sure, not my normal encounter in the shadows when I work.? Marek reminded her that this was first trip to Dragon?s Eye. ?Anybody seeking what you're looking for here in this barren landscape also? You have a competitor??

"The missing grass could be explained by creatures coming from the ground at night, poking around like I did. There was only one wing. He didn't even try to bite me. So he was controlled and the mage didn't think of biting or turning." She shook her head and then glanced over to Marek, her voice holding concern. "Did you get any scratches?"

?No... They didn't get too close. So nobody else is looking for the answers you are?? He glanced over at her and then ahead as they moved. ?They seemed persistent in looking about.?

"Something doesn't quite add up." Catalina shook her head. "Yes, they were that and the wing didn't show until quite a bit later. Pick pocketed by a wing, that should sound odd even in Rhydin."

?It does.? He nodded aside to her as they moved along. ?This world of yours has so many lovely things in it. I'm surprised more don't make homes here.?

"Right." She chuckled at his evaluation, but remained alert and nervous. Daytime was still many hours away and her eyes started to hurt with the strain of trying to pierce the night to catch any movements. "Well, at least nothing tried to pull you under yet. Go for another run?"

?Good for that... yeah... why not?? He adjusted the weapon in hand and the pack on his back. ?I'm gonna need a few weeks off when get back... I'll be too fit.?

"There is such a thing as too fit?" She chuckled and then picked up the pace again.

?For some of us? yeah...? He chuckled as he shook his head and proceeded on in the night. For a while they ran quietly. Until Catey reached over to grab Marek's arm and she halted her steps.

"Bones." She nodded ahead into the darkness. Different shapes and sizes of not quite white weak lights seemed to be dancing in the distance. They weren't lights though, only bits of starlight reflected by whitish bone. And they were just between them and the spring. "Are the guns good with them, or do we better find a way around?"

?Perhaps be best to find a way around and spend less time fighting them? Up to you though... how many are there usually??

"Five, ten, hard to tell." She shrugged and changed direction slightly. "Around it is."

Marek nodded to her and moved with her lead, the submachine gun kept close and at the ready as his gaze moved over the landscape in the darkness. The rest of their night time traveling passed without further surprises and even with the detour they took they made it to the spring way before daylight.

Evening Stroll

Despite the grueling tempo she set, nightfall caught Catalina and Marek while they were still a distance away from East camp. Marek kept up decently as he moved along with the large pack on his back and the weapon in hand, just in case. They both kept watch of the area they traveled through and anything it might give birth to along their route.

"Sleeping for two weeks as you mentioned earlier is starting to sound like just the thing." Catalina grinned as they had to slow down again. "The closer we get to camp, though, the more likely that any creatures coming up will be attracted to there."

?Noise and gathering of many... usual yeah. Should bring a torch next time in town.? A smirk perked his lips and he had to chuckle at the thought of burning what was left of this land, or the creatures of the night that inhabit it.

"Do you have another story?" Catalina asked, her gaze on the ground ahead.

?What type of story you looking to hear?? Marek glanced from ahead over at her with a quirking brow.

"Anything really you feel up to telling." She reached for canteen and had a few drinks of water.

?Hm... not sure what to tell.? He shifted his head slightly, considering. ?What do the people here do for fun? Besides letting out their hunger in a bed? I mean? anything to keep the locals that live here happy in this landscape??

"In town you mean? I really only know the one town with Val's palace in it. There are other, smaller ones. They have nice places there, like any town I guess, places to eat and drink, plays to see, music to hear, dances to go to, places for shopping or trade, Court has to offer entertainments." She shrugged.

?Guards or soldiers protect them then from the undesirables walking around outside their little town??

"The structures themselves offer protection, there are some guards, and there are mages and dragons and healers. The so called night live as entertainment goes is limited. People just don't go out at night if they don't absolutely have to. Out here the unliving for the most part are recently so. The warriors do get most of them to put to rest. The few that make it to town are not so recently unliving, mostly wings. But it's enough for one person to disappear in a month for no one to want to risk going out at all." She glanced over to Marek to maybe see if he followed her lengthy explanation, but the star light was not enough to see the finer facial expressions.

?Makes senses I spose given the planet and all. Must be a decent population about. With people staying in doors at night and ya know?? He chuckled over to her with a nod as they moved along.

"A lot of children without fathers, that's for sure, and very few old - uhgmpf." Catalina felt herself falling and reached for her knife even as she fell. By the time she sat on the ground her hand curled around the hilt.

?What?? Marek paused as she stumbled, glancing over and down, and caught sight of her knife. A pale hand attached to a muscled arm had her ankle in a vice like grip. She was already stabbing and slicing at it as well as at the second that tried to reach up from the ground.

?They're out again... oh lovely.? Her tactic and speedy handling of her blade seemed to do the job.

"Let's hope it's just the one." She got to her feet again and a few steps away once she got loose before she bent to wipe the blade on the dirt. Then she put the blade away again.

?That can't be good, can it?? Marek nodded ahead to the horizon with a quirking brow as they proceeded after the ankle grabber was behind them. Fire streaked down from somewhere low in the sky to the ground beyond the horizon. It was definitely not lightening. ?Should I be concerned or just walk like nothing?s going on up there??

"Hmm?" When Catalina looked to where he was pointing there was nothing to see.

?Fire from the sky... dragon friend of yours or just trouble? We're heading that way... right? Or near it?? He cocked his head to the side as she watched ahead.

"I guess we'll find out. Maybe they got some help, maybe they're in trouble. If it's trouble it should repeat a few times in short succession. If it's help it should be with long intervals." If it was trouble, their night would be much longer, of course. They?d have to find a way around camp and trouble and head for the shack. She had to wait quite a bit though to see another bit of fire steak down. The camp had some help then, she decided.

They witnessed fire streaking to the ground twice more as they neared the camp. Sounds of fighting came mostly from the far edge. But they did not meet any more of the undead along the way. Marek shifted the pack on his back, keeping an eye out for the unwanted and the flames from the sky as they drew near the camp.

?Hail camp.? Catalina called out once they were close enough to be heard as well as seen. The warriors by the fires on this side of camp currently were watchful but not engaged. A few called back greetings.

?Busy night looks like.? Marek commented with a light roll of his head to work the muscles in his neck some.

"Ye got that right on." One of the warriors offered. "Catey. Ye might want to stay at the command tent 'till mornin'"

"Thanks Charly." Catalina nodded over to Marek before she turned to the warrior again. "Marek, Charles. Who's the one spitting fire?"

"That be Xey. She flew in this afternoon. Been a busy girl." Charly nodded over to Marek.

?So we've seen. Quite busy it would appear. Hell fire from above.? Marek nodded over to the warrior named Charly, a tall man that appeared slightly less rough than his comrades.

"More of a blessin' from above. Had hell over for a visit last week." Charles nodded to Catey again as a few of his comrades drew up bows. "Ye better git goin'."

"Already gone. Good luck." Catalina reached for Marek's arm, not bothering to glance behind to see what the warriors were aiming at, and walked past the warriors into camp. Behind them arrows whistled and something screamed.

Marek nodded as moved with Catalina from the warriors onward and into the camp, keeping a watchful eye as they proceeded and making note.

?Another fun night on your world, Catalina.? He perked a smirk aside to her.

"I'm glad you're enjoying the night life. If you'd rather be in the middle of it just say the word." Catalina shook her head grinning, letting go of his arm again and dodging out of the way of a warrior in an obvious hurry. "Me, I rather take Charly's advice and make use of Barell's tent."

?Sounds good to me.? He cast a nod to her with a smile. ?Let them do their job, while we proceed with ours. How long you think the trouble will be about here??

"This bad, an hour tops, unless the 'bad' is preceding real trouble. I doubt they expect any, or they'd not have Xey here." Catalina wagered a guess as she glanced over to where the heavier sounds of fighting came from, but there were too many tents in the way to see anything beside the underside of the Golden whenever she happened to fly over and low enough for the light of the flames to reflect in her scales.

?Certainly lively when the fights on, around this place. Your warriors know how to party.? Marek smirked to Catalina as he glanced up a few times to catch sight of the flying dragon above.

"They do party hard, mostly to forget all this for a few hours." Catalina followed one of his glances up. "Not much to see now, but maybe you get to see her fly around a bit as we head out in the morning."

?Like a hell fighter from above.? Marek nodded to her as he lowered his gaze from above. ?Least you have some dragons on your side here and there. Power and strength to your aid.?

"Without them there wouldn't be sides and for us only terror until eaten." Catalina glanced around as they walked past the innermost row of tents. The center of camp appeared to be deserted. Not even a page loitered by the command tent.

?Everyone busy watching the sides of this camp I gather. Least you have that going for you here. Don't have to worry about every dragon swooping down to nibble at your men.?

"Yes, there's that. May as well go inside, no point waiting for Barell's invitation." With that Catalina walked inside the command tent, pausing just out of the way of the entry for a look around. "Sorry, I'm not in the most chipper of moods this evening. I think I'm just now realizing how close I was to that wing back at Vergalles."

?Everyone has a brush with death here and there in their life. Just have to work past it and not dwell on it for too long darlin.? Marek slid inside the tent and had a look around as he slid a strap from his pack off his left shoulder.

"Death's one thing, undeath another. That one behaved way odd." She slipped her pack of her back and settled it to the ground. Then she smiled a little. "Look, chairs."

Marek slid his pack off the rest of the way with a nod to her and then tucked the submachine gun next to it. He stood up again with a roll of his shoulders against the leather jacket, working a few kinks out as he moved for one of the chairs. ?Ah, modern technology.?

The tent was, like all commanders' tents on Dragon?s Eye, a large one with a few dividing tent walls. Catalina knew that behind one of those walls stood a map table, quite possibly with a map still rolled out on it, and behind the other should be a cot or two, depending on if Barell shared his space with his page or not.

"Chairs are not so modern, are they?" Catalina headed for one of the chairs and after she had moved the piece of spare armor from it to the ground settled down into it with a sigh.

?Here, I'd call them modern.? Marek chuckled as he planted himself into one with a glance around the tent. ?You?re friends with the guy that owns this tent??

"Hmm, friends and friends... I met him several times. There never really was much time for chit chat. Now that he's a commander and if I kept working as a courier we'd likely be friends in at least a professional sort of way short order." Catalina stretched out her legs and crossed them at the ankles, glancing over to Marek.

?I see.? He nodded to her in thought. ?You know many that work for the King then? Soldiers and warrior types of these lands from your travel eh? That seems a plus when finding a place to rest.?

"Couriers are usually treated well, at least in the camps. Orders and news are always welcome. A courier making it from one camp to another or from court to camp also means whatever was carried didn't find its way to the other side. I know some of the warriors but in general it's they know who I am." She grinned and shook her head at his questions. "You are going to make me sound like I'm bragging. It is very rare that any courier survives the job for more than a couple of years. Currently there aren't any with two years or more experience on the job. I've been doing this now for longer than three times that."

?Then you're at the top for your service sounds like.? He smirked and cast a wink to her as he chuckled. ?Like back home, you live long enough running the shadows you gain a certain respect.?

"Something like that." She tried to reach her pack from where she was sitting now without having to get back up. Eventually she gave up and came to her feet to fetch it. "So, you've been running shadows for a long time?"

?More years then care to count.? He nodded over at her again with a smile perking his lips. ?Sometimes have been more interesting and harsh then others. But nothing ventured, nothing gained right??

"True enough." She sat back down and took the canteen from her pack. "It sounds like the worst of the night time fighting is over."

?Hopefully. Give the gents' outside about the camp time to rest and relax. Before the next trouble comes their way to push back from the lines.? He nodded over to her. Nope, he wasn't checking her out, well, maybe, old habits die hard, you know.

"It's really too bad that you didn't bring that camera you mentioned." She grinned over to him, opening the canteen. "Seamus might have liked to see some of the scenery."

?You should take him out into a waste land back on Rhydin, it's similar.? Marek chuckled with a nod of his head. ?Not much for sights, though a few pics of the spring when they pop up here and there would be good. Just to show it's not all dirt and hard ground, rocks about.?

"A dragon flying overhead, the idyllic shack, the inviting camp... those should all make for nice pictures to show off in Rhydin, don't you think?" She took a few drinks from her canteen then.

?Indeed. Not all that different from some places back in Rhydin... or some border towns back home where I ventured from.? He chuckled.

"What does your world look like?" Catalina glanced toward the tent opening and to the sound of voices and the clink of armor in motion approaching.

?Modern... vehicles driving around all over, large buildings reaching high into the sky. Vehicles that fly carrying a hundred people or so within them in the sky. Boats on the water carrying large numbers of cargo and people. Signs that light up in the night. Clothing like mine worn by many.?

"What about trees and big predators, do you have those?" She had another drink of water before she closed the canteen again.

?We have dragons... and other large beasts here and there. Some venture into the cities, others keep away from the populations here and there.?

"Catey. Marek. Someone told me ye came in a little while ago." Barell greeted them as he came walking in. Catalina had been about to ask Marek about the trees but abandoned the thought when she heard Barell and looked over to him.

"No, no, don't get up, I'll take this one." He tilted a chair to let what was sitting on it slide to the ground and then sat down in it heavily. He waved away the page at the tent flap before the youngster came inside all the way. "Go rest a while, night's far from over."

"Ye made yerself comfortable, good. Ye've avoided trouble?" Barell glanced over to Catey and Marek again.

?Some...? Marek nodded over at the man with a light smile of greeting to him as he shifted in the chair some, regarding him a bit with a glance to Catey and back. ?Was an interesting trip thus far.?

"A lot more trouble that we should have seen back at Vergalles, lots of stiffs and a wing, early last night. Not much between here and there." Catalina quickly relayed the information important to the commander. "Area looks like they've roamed there for a while. The spring looks untouched, though."

"I see. And ye both, no scratches, bites, cuts?" He looked them both over for any tell tale signs. "Xey brought a healer mage with her when she came in."

"I'm good and nothing got close enough to Marek." Catalina smiled somewhat.

"How ye're likin' yer new job so far?" Barell asked of Marek then with a bit of a smile.

?It has its perks. I'm getting a lot of exercise.? Marek chuckled a bit with a smirk at his lips as he nodded to the man. ?I kept the uglys away thus far. Some nasty things you have about this world at night.?

"Ye kin say that again. Only lost two tho' so far tonight." Barell shook his head. "Could of have been worse. Xeylia offered to keep watch 'til morn'. Ye two hungry or just tired?"

"We could probably do with a bite." Catalina glanced over to Marek.

?Both?? Marek chuckled and smirked. ?She's been making me run a lot... not used to that. Used to hitching a ride upon a vehicle, mode of transportation of some sort.?

"Ye're welcome to whatever's in that box and the bunks. I won't be needing them tonight." Barell nodded over to the crate sitting near Marek's chair and then stood up again with a slight groan. "Water's in the tent across."

"Thanks, Barell, both is much appreciated. Good luck out there. We'll see you before we've to head out again?" Catalina cast a thankful smile his way.

?Thank you. Good luck with your efforts through the night out there.? Marek nodded to the man as he stood with a stretch.

"Aye. Need ye to take a message for the court as far as the shack. Rex can pass it on or take it back himself." Barell nodded to Catey and then over to Marek. "Glad to see ye made yer first run."

"No problem." Catalina couldn't quite keep from grinning.

?I'm a little rough around the edges, just like the landscape here is.? A smirk perked Marek?s lips as he nodded to the man again with a glance over to Catey and then back.

"Rest ye well." With that and a nod over to the two Barell left the tent.