<span style="font-style: italic">"B-but! We have to stay the night! Ceremonial blessings are cast upon our supplies by holy men. And we have to sleep in the holy sacrifice's room, that we may be blessed in our mission." </span><br/><br/>Out of the corner of his eye, Motto noticed the Sacrifice was moving away.  His jaw hardened.  She was entering into the people.  The guide continued speaking but Motto had turned and left; keeping three paces behind the Sacrifice.  He did not find the crowd pleasant but only put his mind on the woman.  Mostly the symbol upon her back.  His sacred flame.  Always moving, Motto kept silent vigil as Dox turned with the dance.  He tracked her potential path and those that made contact with her.  When the dance ended, he stood unmoving in his observation until a dark aura emerged within the crowded group.  Thick red splashed on the faces of those standing on the perimeter.  Six bodies slowly toppled to the ground.  Motto stood with the Sacrifice over his shoulder and an ancient saber in his hand.  Blood dripped from it’s rough edge and a silence fell upon the festival.<br/><br/>Without a word he flicked the weapon clean and strode to where he knew the Sacrifice dwelt.  Motto’s pace was a bit faster than usual; his annoyance with the demons causing his steps to be strong and sure.  Upon reaching Dox’s private sleeping room, he stopped before the bed.  His movements suddenly became much slower and careful as he let his grip on her loosen and slid her down from where she hung over his neck; similar to how a Shepard carries an injured sheep.  Motto disliked that particular custom but carrying creatures without crippling them was something he sometimes did.  Gentle was his way of lowering the Sacrifice down upon her bed.  Her scent was more evident now in this familiar place.  Her body and hair were like a bird and honey badger.  Light, sweet, earth and blood.  Once the Sacrifice was fully released, Motto stood tall and crossed his arms.  He would remain there until her eyes closed with sleep.