The night was clear and quiet, rather pleasant actually the warmth from the beginning parts of summer still clinging to the night air. Kozue moved through the trees that covered the mountain side with a silent grace, an agitated beast prowling in the dark. Her husband had vanished - simply disappeared off the face of the earth it seemed. Probably off to seek his first wife, his favored lady. Bitterness creeped up the back of her throat like burning bile.

As she moved in the darkness the scent of smoke was the first thing to draw her attention. Faint, but distinct as she looked off into the distance to see a soft glow of light coming from a cave further up the peak. Her curiosity roused she made her way towards it with silent steps. She’d have no shyness as she reached the cave and began to walk inside, calling out as she went. “Hello, anyone home darlings?” she did know how to make an entrance when she wanted to be seen.

@Fissure

code by corvus || art by moogle

Fissure had been relaxing comfortably near the back entrance of the Crow's Nest, taking in some sun and the warm temperatures outside. It was a pleasant feeling, but it always was in the very beginning of summer. The appeal of sweltering heat could only last so long before he yearned for the return of autumn.

He heard an unfamiliar voice within, muffled by the distance between, but clearly coming from the mouth of his little band. He would get up with a stretch, going inside with interest. Before him, a curious lioness with unknown intent. "Hmm? May I be of service my stripped beauty? Are you looking for assistance, or perhaps you desire to offer your own?" He asked, tone light and playful. No point being unpleasant when he didn't even know her intentions yet.

@Kozue

There’s always this tension, A conflict within

A universe waring Under my skin

code: corvus | art: Moogle

It took a moment for @Fissure ti appear, taking his sweet time and keeping her waiting. She resisted the urge to show her irritation, instead keeping a practiced mask of politeness in place. Finally as the dark stranger approached she judged him coolly, her gaze even as she took in his impressive visage.

He also knew how to compliment, and she certainly could entertain that habit couldn’t she? Oh, I’m dreadfully sorry to bother such a fine lion as yourself. she cooed back at him, taking a step forward, testing his tolerance as she eased herself into the man’s personal space. I merely saw your fire in the darkness, and was hoping you’d have room by it for a poor widow seeking refuge. not entirely the truth - her husband had just left her, probably on search of his favored wife, but he might as well be dead.

If she saw him again, he certainly would be.

Assassin
+5 Tell a lie without being caught (1/2)

code by corvus || art by moogle

Fissure was quite taken aback by @Kozue's boldness. He had come to surround himself with lionesses more delicate and shy, less prone to get right up in his space and partake in flirtation with such ease. It was not unwelcomed, just not what he was used to. He enjoyed playing this game, and with all his experience with the art, he was not easily made to blush.

"Ah, a pity to learn you are single once more. My condolences. I am sure such a divine creature as you will find someone else in no time." He cooed, unmoving with eyes of slate and onyx staring down at her with some intensity.

"You are welcome to stay, but beyond the morning, you have to pay in order to remain. This is a small band of mercenaries, we trade our wares with the masses, be it crafts, claws for hire. Some might choose to deal in more... delicate matters. Have you any notable talents darling?" He asked.

There’s always this tension, A conflict within

A universe waring Under my skin

code: corvus | art: Moogle

There was a twitch at the corner of her lips as he lamented the news of her recently departed husband, though she suspected neither of them really mourned the man that had abandoned her, Ah yes, may his soul rest with the primal one. she murmured a prayer, playing the part of the grieved wife.

As he welcomed her to his fire for the night but demanded payment for future lodgings she was intrigued. Oh, I’m sure I could find you payment enough. she cooed, aiming to brush against him every so slowly as she tried to move past him and towards the crackling hearth that danced so invitingly. Its orange tendrils beckoning her towards it. I have many skills, though most are better suited for the dark. Secrets, I’m good at gathering secrets. she turned to look at him again, offering a smile as she sat down. I’m sure you have your secrets, don’t you @Fissure? she looked back at his burning gaze, unblinking and unfazed by its intensity.

Cleric
+5 Meditate or pray on your own or with someone else (1/2)
Assassin
+5 Tell a lie without being caught (2/2)

code by corvus || art by moogle

The lioness would mutter something about her mate, clearly not torn up about his absence in the slightest. Perhaps if anything she was angry with him, eager to vent her frustrations elsewhere. Fissure would have happily offered her a flirtatious suggestion of how she might get her frustrations out in a way that would leave her feeling pleased with herself, but his mind was too distracted for such things.

He would playfully scoff and her banter, smiling. "See, usually it's the other way around with me darling. Others find a way to pay me for certain.. things. I would never get anything done otherwise." He offered with a wink.

"Secrets? I am open to any interrogation. I have nothing to hide." He assured her, considering what she had to offer for a moment. The band was lacking in numbers, and given that @Kozue seemed capable, he saw no reason not to let her in.

"Consider yourself a part of the Crows then. You can start earning your keep with some simple chores in the morning. For now, make yourself comfortable." He said, falling back into a relaxed sit. Perhaps he would loiture for awhile in case she had anything else she wanted to say or do.

There’s always this tension, A conflict within

A universe waring Under my skin

code: corvus | art: Moogle