Scars & Souvenirs (elvenslave & Crimson Caine)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Solos =&gt; Topic started by: Crimson Caine on 08-11-2013, 02:58:34</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>08-11-2013, 02:58:34</strong>
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				Brysen Marsaad (http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g194/rabidferret_1973/Personal%20Photos/Roleplaying/One.jpg) stood in the walled in courtyard of his new residents in Irakeen was fairly palatial after living in makeshift quarters and garrisons for the last few years.&nbsp; It was one of the perks being assigned to be the advisor to the lord of the area, the port city and its surrounding lands being one of the most lush and fertile lands in the empire, and also the most coveted.&nbsp; It was the reason he was assigned to the lord as an adviser, so many coups had started here it was felt a more military mind was needed to help keep order.&nbsp; <br><br>The courtyard had a small water fountain in the middle, more of a waterfall, into a pond of small fish.&nbsp; Beautiful tiles were inlayed in the pool and the surrounding area creating splashes of color that dazzled in the afternoon sun.&nbsp; A small garden surrounded the pool forming a square around with a large walkway encircled.&nbsp; The walls were a light brown covered with strange crystals that caught the light when it hit at certain angles.&nbsp; Small gas lights were fitted along the wall leading to a small area that contained tables and chairs where a few guest had gathered, none of them which Brysen knew.&nbsp; <br><br>Standing nearby, the general in rank only, the garrisoned soldiers in the city reported to another commander, Brysen stood in the black and blood red of his uniform.&nbsp; Black leather breaches covered his lefts with crimson trim that rand down the sides disappearing into a pair of black leather boots that rose high on his calves.&nbsp; A leather jacket that buttoned up the right side hung on his large frame, the arms and edges trimmed in the same crimson.&nbsp; A number of metals, much to his dislike, were attached to the breast on a special board to display.&nbsp; His collars and his epaulets displayed his rank.&nbsp; A saber hung from his left hip and a pistol from his right.&nbsp; His long black hair was tied back though a few strands escaped it, all of which only helped to make the scar that ran down the left side of his face all that more prominent.&nbsp; It started just above his eye and curled down to end just near his jaw, the hasty field surgery leaving a small furrow.&nbsp; <br><br>“Welcome, General Marsaad,” a tall man said, moving to offer his hand.&nbsp; Brysen knew he was one of the head of the local trade commission and an advisor to the general.&nbsp; His gaunt wife sat next to him looking as if the very air was distasteful to her, though he guessed it was more likely his presence.&nbsp; The town had fostered a very well to do citizenry who clung to the lord.&nbsp; The shadow of a passing airship moved over them as if on cue as the man offered his hand. <br><br>He took the hand and shook it back, watching the twinge of discomfort show in the man’s face as his grip firmly pressed into his.&nbsp; Unlike most of them, he’d not lived a privileged life so he was not of their kind, though few knew his whole history.&nbsp; But his actions had saved thousands of lives, including a number of the Emperor’s personal family and friends, so they knew they could not outright insult him.&nbsp; He had the blessings of the highest authority of the land, who’d personally made him a general and assigned him to this place after he’d recovered, along with showering him with presents.&nbsp; <br><br>“As a new resident in the city, I feel it is important to not only welcome you but to ensure you fit in.”&nbsp; His smile reminded him of some creatures that use to plague him and his men on long marches through the swamps and waterways, latching on with small, sharp teeth and sucking out their blood.&nbsp; “As such, I have gone and found you the perfect house warming gift.&nbsp; You see, I know with your background, you’ve probably never seen such pets much less know how to find such excellent stock so I did all of the hard work for you.”&nbsp; He motioned to his men who disappeared out the large entrance way into the courtyard and moved to his coach.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>08-11-2013, 11:04:10</strong>
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				Lei (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/d/d3/Shy_neko.jpg) felt like her whole body was aching. Her chest, her belly, her limbs, her tail, and that horrible pulsations in her head...Her life wasn't easy so far, but she didn't remember waking up in a small cage, on the floor of a coach, all tied up, her whole body in pain. Sure, she's been tied up many times, and when she wasn't, she was always leashed. But it was never like this, something was different this time, and she had to figure what it was. <br><br>She remembered her owner wanting to play fetch with her. That idiotic game most Nekos were only too happy to play. For her part, she didn't see any sense in fetching a stupid little ball, that her owner, the head of the local trade commission, would throw away again. If he wanted that ball so badly, why did he keep throwing it for crying out loud? Anyways, after he threw it woe the third, to fourth time, Lei just mewled and looked at him, a quiet question in her eyes: <em>"What is so funny in seeing me crawling for that idiotic ball?"</em> Of course, she couldn't really say it. No, nekos didn't talk. Their half human part served only to look beautiful, and for sex with their Human owners. Otherwise, they were expect to behave like perfect, housebroken cats. Actually, Lei didn't know any Neko who was actually able to say something. She never met anyone like this, no one but herself. When she discovered this ability, she tried to talk to the man who were her owner then, but he just got eared of her, and punished her, as if it was a really bad thing of her to do. He never looked at her the same way again, and quickly sold her. Lei wasn't stupid. She understood that she wasn't supposed to use human speech, and resolved that no Human would hear her talking ever again, it was safer that way. Even so, however, she found herself very often punished. She didn't think simply like all the other Nekos: 'I must please my master. I can be happy only when my master is happy with me'. No, she had a mind of her own, she was able to think, and thus often question a master's orders. But of course, it was seen only as stubborn disobedience. She was just too smart for her own good. <br><br>Lei's owner got very angry at her after she refused to fetch the ball, it was the straw that broke the camel's back. He slapped her, and dragged her to the place she dreaded the most: the dungeon. She absolutely hated the place. It was dark, cold, the air was very humid, and horrible things always happened here to Neko slaves like her. This time, she found herself tied to the ceiling by her wrists, and subjected to a long, full whipping, that stopped only after she passed out. She was then woken up with cold water, and raped by a dog boy slave who belonged to her master's wife. Lei hated dogs, and this one in particular. <br><br>It was the last thing she remembered, now she was there, in this cage. She didn't see herself in a mirror, but she suspected she must look horrible at the moment. Normally, she was real pretty. Her body was slender, with all the right curves in the right places. She had full breasts just big enough to fit in a master's hands, with nipples that hardened quickly while stimulated, a flat belly, and well formed strong legs. Her hair as well as the pointy ears on top of her head was grey, which made a nice contrast with the fur of her tail, and the fur that she had on her calves, forearms and back, witch was pitch black. After the punishment however, her body was covered in red welts, her fur wasn't shiny anymore, and her emerald green eyes were not full of life. <br><br>As she was laying there, recalling the past events, a couple of men open the door to the coach and then to her cage. They clipped a leash to her leather collar, and dragged her out, not caring that she practically couldn't move since she was tied up. She couldn't help herself, and mewled in pain the whole way. But the servants stopped only when they reached her master, who was talking to tall man in a uniform. <br><br>"Here she is sir." Oe of them said, passing her leash to her master. "I don't think she'll be bitching for a while." He added, a vile grin on his face.<br><br>"Ah yes. Excellent." The advisor said, and harshly tugged on Lei's leash to make her come closer. "General Marsaad. That's for you. Consider it a welcome gift." He said, chuckling at Brysen's expression as he gave him the end of Lei's leash. <br><br>As for Lei, she was shocked. A gift? A new master? Again? She couldn't believe it, that couldn't be happening. She hated the advisor with all her heart, but what told her it would be different this time? Humans were all the same anyways... After the initial shock has passed, she lifted her head to look at Brysen, and experienced another shock. never before did she see a scar like this on a man's face. All she knew, were noble men and women, who were pampered since their birth. She didn't even have an idea what a scar was, it was just plain scary to her. As she saw it, she gasped, mewled in fear, and quickly closed her eyes, not wanting to look. <br><br>A few seconds later though, she realised that she probably offended her new master. That wasn't good, he would be hating her since the first day! And of he hated her, he would surely take great pleasure in punishing and torturing her, she must do something to at least try and repair the bad first impression she made. Therefore, she forced herself to open her eyes, an to look directly his face. There, now she knew what to expect it wasn't this bad anymore. Actually, as she looked at him a bit more, he didn't seem to be that horrible, she was sure to look worse than him at that moment. She mewled, and apologetically bowed her head, touching her forehead to the ground, just next to his boot. She so wanted him to forgive her just this time, and not punish her!
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				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>09-11-2013, 01:58:12</strong>
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				A quizzical look passed over Brysen’s face as he raised an eyebrow hearing the commotion coming from outside the walls and moving towards them.&nbsp; It was an unusual sound, like that of the cat his sister had kept as children, but it was as if it was coming from something larger, something human.&nbsp; But when the creature came around the corner being pulled along by Jago’s men, he had to do a double take to make sure he was seeing things correctly.&nbsp; He had heard about such pets but the closest thing he’d come across were larger and hairier creatures, with horns, being used as slave labor in the fields.&nbsp; Men talked about how the well to do owned such creatures, personal slaves to do with as they wished, and what they wished always sounded rather disturbing to him.<br><br>From its state, he knew right away why the man was presenting it to him.&nbsp; It was a political game.&nbsp; The creature was obviously in less than stellar shape, treated poorly, and it was meant to be an insult.&nbsp; They talk around the table had hinted at how little the liked his presence in the city but this was meant as the final slap.&nbsp; It was obviously a game to accept such a present as someone below them or to balk at such a present, presented in such a state, which would immediately be reported back to the lord how rude he’d been to the important people of the city.&nbsp; Despite his injuries, he wondered if he’d be better off in a field commander position then dealing with these political mind games.<br><br>As Jago presented his present, Brysen’s eyes narrowed for a moment, his face tightening as the man glared at him.&nbsp; The look in the merchant’s eyes chilled him and left him feeling like a piece of dirt on his boot.&nbsp; He should have been happy that he at least looked at the creature with an even more loathing glare as he took its leash and presented it to him.<br><br>Brysen reached out to take the leash, his strong hands wrapping about the leather, and made the mistake of looking at the creature.&nbsp; He was use to the look in humans that look of revulsion and disgust at his scar but seeing it on her face somehow dug deep and bled a little more.&nbsp; Her lips parted and she made that sound, visibly shrinking, he felt as small as Jago had intended with his own glare.&nbsp; The muscles under his uniform stiffened as he quickly looked away from the creature, his features becoming like a statue as he pulled on his reserves.&nbsp; <br><br>The rest of the crown was laughing and snickering at the Lei’s reaction to him, the amusement for the night finally supplied.&nbsp; His attention was on Jago and the rest by the time she opened her eyes and looked at him.&nbsp; Then, suddenly, she was mewing towards him, bringing his attention back to her, turning in time to see her place her head against the ground near his boot like some subservient creature.&nbsp; His eyes were hard as they glared at her but not because of the fear she had shown seconds before but because of what he had seen so far, how he could see she had been treated.<br><br>His first instinct had been to refuse the gift as politely as possible, he had no need for such a creature.&nbsp; A servant had been supplied to cook and clean around the place, he did not need a pet or a sex slave.&nbsp; But seeing her like that, he could not bring himself to send her back to a man like Jago or any of his friends.&nbsp; He lived by a code that these men and women wouldn’t understand and it would not allow him to just turn his back because of his weaknesses, because she had hurt him with that look.&nbsp; He was a warrior and a man, stronger than that.&nbsp; <br><br>Taking a deep breath, he stepped closer to Jago and bowed deeply, glancing for a moment at Lei.&nbsp; “Thank you for your present, it is a great honor.&nbsp; One that I shall not forget.”&nbsp; A cold smile turned up the corners of his lips as he looked the man in his eyes showing no fear of the man.&nbsp; “I hope that I can prove worthy of your gift.”<br><br>“Oh, I’m sure you will.”<br><br>“Well,” he said, stepping back and glancing over at Lei.&nbsp; “I suppose the only honorable thing to do is to take care of your present.&nbsp; I wouldn’t want people to think I didn’t appreciate it.&nbsp; What is her name?”<br><br>Jago laugh turned his stomach and brought a chill into his bones.&nbsp; “<em>It</em> goes by whatever you want to call <em>it</em> by.&nbsp; These things don’t need a name to get what you want from them.”<br><br>Brysen nodded but didn’t say anything further.&nbsp; “If you’ll all excuse me then.&nbsp; It is getting late and I must see to this unexpected present.&nbsp; Again, thank you all.”&nbsp; As the men and woman began to leave, laughing and gossiping already between them, he grabbed an iron chair and dragged it easily over the tile to set it before the creature.&nbsp; “I don’t know if you can understand me but once these people are gone we’ll see about getting you cleaned up and some proper clothing.”&nbsp; Where he was going to get clothing he wasn’t sure but what she was wearing wasn’t appropriate as far as he was concerned, though they might have to just wash them as well until tomorrow.&nbsp; “I’m sorry you got stuck with the likes of me but you don’t have to be afraid. I know the scar is ugly but I suspect you know a lot more about a lot worse ugly then this.”&nbsp; He sat for a moment looking at the girl before him, finding a sweetness to her looks despite her state and how she had reacted to him.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>09-11-2013, 03:16:23</strong>
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				The tension in the air was almost palpable, Lei at least could feel it very well. Brysen unconsciously stiffened while she gasped looking at him, which made him tug at the leash, and everybody else was laughing. Which made Brysen tense even more. Just perfect. She belonged to him for less than a minute, and she already managed to ridicule him, now surely she was the only Neko in the world capable of doing that to her brand new master! She really felt like an idiot at that moment, and she hated herself. So much for making a good impression and having a fresh, new start...<br><br>Suddenly, she realised that it might very well be the exact purpose of her being here. Jago wanted her to make a fool of Brysen! He knew full well how he looked, and that it would scare her. After all, what Neko wouldn't get afraid? Of course, that must be it, her new master, whatever his name was, was new here. She never saw him before at least, and she did know from view most people, or at least the important ones, who lived in the city. Plus, Lei was sure she would remember Brysen if she saw him before. Anyways, he was new, and this whole clique of corrupted nobles didn't want him here! If they wanted to give him a real welcome gift, he would have received one of the prettiest, well behaved, broken pets they could find. It wasn't difficult, marketplaces were full of pet slaves of both sexes and every possible races. Yet, they gave him <em>her</em>. The one Neko that nobody ever kept for long. The black sheep of the species. Plus, she was right after punishment, which meant she was in a horrible shape. She had to recognise it was subtle, and well played from the nobles part. <br><br>After how she reacted, Brysen had every right to refuse her, and Lei wouldn't be surprised if he did. However, Brysen did the exact contrary of what was expected. He accepted the 'gift', and even asked for her name. Of course, it was engraved on the tag attached to her collar, but she doubted Jago ever took the trouble to read it. Usually he called her 'slut', 'whore', or some more elaborate degrading name whenever he was drunk (which arrived pretty often). She had to bit her lip to mastery herself while he explained that Brysen could call her however he pleased, referring to her as 'it' all the time. Still, she let out a small sob, not being able to completely restrain her emotions. <br><br>Finally, Brysen dismissed the whole company. Lei didn't fail to notice the look of disappointment on some faces, but most of them were just smiling and laughing, thinking of the very clever prank they just played on the general. <br><br>While she was glad that they all left, she wasn't sure if she was comfortable alone with the general. She knew he was her master now, and she has to get used to him, but his presence was intimidating. It was clear that he was a man used to give orders, and used to have his orders executed immediately. That, and he must be a powerful, and important person, given the amount of medals and decorations on his uniform. She also noticed that he was strong, lifting the iron chair as if it was a simple wooden one. If he wanted to, he could easily break her in two. <br><br>Lei half expected to be told to bend over that chair for a spanking, as a punishment for being disrespectful, but Brysen told her not to be afraid of him instead, and a few other things that were only too pleasant to hear. That was unexpected: a bath, new clothes? Did she really get this right? Why would he do that, it seemed more like a reward than anything else! He was right though, the rags she was wearing were due for a washing a long time ago already. But if she took off the loincloth and brassiere she received on her first day with Jago, she might never get any clothes again, she she just kept wearing them. She really though she didn't hear right, and turned her head to glance at him from another angle, mewling questioningly. She didn't think that it might look like she didn't understand a word of what he told to her, though. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>09-11-2013, 04:06:34</strong>
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				Watching the last of the crown exit the courtyard, he felt a bit of the pressure leaving his chest at being free of the illuminati of society.&nbsp; He knew their kind all too well from his youth and had no need of their company now.&nbsp; It would undoubtedly filter to the lord what he had done here today but that was another day, one that could wait for later.&nbsp; If his time in the service had taught him anything, it was to prioritize what needed to be worried about and when, because there was always something to worry about.&nbsp; He absentmindedly reached out towards the table and grabbed the goblet of wine he’d been sipping on, taking a large mouthful and swallowing it down.&nbsp; <br><br>The creature before him made a noise as his mind searched for what he remembered others had called these creatures.&nbsp; Nee-kay-ohs?&nbsp; Something like that.&nbsp; She was looking at him in that questioning manner that made him thing she hadn’t understood a thing he’d said.&nbsp; Perhaps it was because she was so use to just being ordered the idea of a conversation was too much for it.&nbsp; However, when she turned her head, he noticed the rectangular glint of metal on its collar around its neck.&nbsp; <br><br>“Come here,” he said, leaning forward.&nbsp; His rough hands reached for her collar as his other hand touched her chin, lifting it up as he strained to see the etching on the metal.&nbsp; A short ‘huh’ noise rumbled in his throat as he looked at the name and traced his fingertips over it to ensure he had it correctly.&nbsp; His eyes moved over to her face for a moment, lingering on her lines and taking her all in for a moment as he took his first close look at her.<br><br>Finally, he leaned back again as he looked over at her, looking a bit more at ease with the rest gone.&nbsp; “So, Lei is your name it appears.&nbsp; Why am I surprised that arrogant bastard wouldn’t know that.”&nbsp; He shook his head slightly as he let his hands wrap around the arms of the chair, slowly pulling himself up.&nbsp; “Well, Lei, I am Brysen if you can understand that.&nbsp; You may have been a tool of insult but I don’t blame you for that.&nbsp; Now, why don’t we see about getting you cleaned up.”&nbsp; <br><br>Carefully, he pushed himself up to his feet and held the leash in his hand, his eyes following it to the collar.&nbsp; He considered unhooking it but he could only imagine how worse things would be if she ran from his compound into the streets.&nbsp; It would be fodder for weeks.&nbsp; Slowly, the turned and began to walk towards the glass doors that led into the main residence, his boots clicking on the tile.&nbsp; His free hand reached over and began to unbuckle the jacket he wore, button by button as the walked.&nbsp; The waning afternoon sun still beat down on them from a cloudless sky as he moved to the double doors, opening them up so they could slip into the cool embrace of the interior.<br><br>The main room they entered into was sparse with decoration with only a few remnants from his travels hung up.&nbsp; The furniture had been supplied for him which clearly didn’t reflect him.&nbsp; It was a lot of burgundy’s and wines with gold and silver trimming and filigree designs.&nbsp; A large couch and settee was set up in a sitting area surrounded by bookshelves that were 3/4th full.&nbsp; Gas laps were not yet lit so the only light came through the large windows near the ends of the room and through the glass double doors he shut once she’d come in.&nbsp; A small desk had been set up off the main room where a wall extended out partially enclosing it into a study.&nbsp; A small liquor cabinet and glasses were set up near the doors they had entered.<br><br>Locking the double doors, he pulled off the jacket and threw it over the garish settee revealing a simple white billowing shirt with laced collar.&nbsp; It lacked the extra indulgences of those high in station, a shirt a soldier would wear.&nbsp; He turned his attention to her as he flexed his shoulders, still feeling the tension of this new issue that was his to deal with.&nbsp; “Now, I don’t want to have to drag you around by a leash inside here.&nbsp; I understand it’s probably expected outside.&nbsp; But… we need to come to a bit of an understanding.&nbsp; I’ll take this leash off while you’re inside here but you can’t go running off, ok?&nbsp; Nod if you understand.”<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>09-11-2013, 18:23:58</strong>
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				Albeit reluctantly, Lei crawled closer, as Brysen instructed her. He might have said kind things to her so far, but she still was intimidated by him. A she was tentatively getting closer and close, he suddenly reacher for her collar. For a second, she thought he wanted to strangle her or something, but he only wished to look at the name tag dangling at the collar. Once again she closed her eyes when he touched her, but calmed down quickly, and managed to relax. He was only caressing her. His hands were rough an calloused, but she knew he meant no harm to her. <br><br>As he discovered that her name was Lei, and apparently was decided to keep calling her like this, she mewled to him, wanting to say 'thank you'. She really hoped he was able to make a difference among the mewls she emitted. To her it was natural: there was a different tone to express gratitude, a different one to protest, a different one when she was in pain... Actually, it was a whole language that she wasn't sure was comprehensible to humans. <br><br>Brysen then began to walk towards the house, leading her inside by her leash. Lei was so used to be walked this way, that she automatically placed herself next to his leg, perfectly heeling him as soon as he rose form his chair. <br><br>She was used to the interiors of the noble's houses, but she couldn't fail to notice how lavishly was this compound furnished. She figured that Brysen must really be a favourite of the Emperor since he ordered a house for one man to be this luxurious. While Brysen might not exactly appreciate this present, she on the other hand immediately took a liking to it, and especially to the fluffy rug in front of the fireplace. Perhaps if she was lucky, her master would allow her to rest there during the evenings? It looked so soft and comfortable... The sofas and armchairs seemed appealing too, but surely she won't be allowed on furniture, like most pets around the world. <br><br>The interior of the home absorbed her so much as soon as they entered, that she stopped paying attention to Brysen for a moment, and noticed that he stopped only when she couldn't walk any further if she didn't want her collar to choke her. Thus, she stopped too, and lifted a questioning gaze at Brysen. He had yet another surprise in stock for her: he wanted to unhook her leash. Once again, it was such an unexpected kindness, that she was completely dumbfounded when he heard it from his lips. She eagerly nodded, showing him that she understood him perfectly, and lifted her chin, giving him an easy access to the ring when the leash was buckled. <br><br>When he unhooked it, Lei suddenly felt very free. It has been a bit more than a year since she hand't been somehow attached to something, or someone, ever since she has been sold to Jago. She smiled, and mewled in gratitude again, wanting to show Brysen how happy he just made her. She wasn't going to run away. While she might still be apprehensive of her master, she new she had nothing to look for at the streets. Stray animals were hunted down and brought to the public kennels, where their masters could pick them up for a small fee. It happened to her once, right after Jago bought her. He was absolutely furious, and it was because of that that she has always been attached. To permanently punish her&nbsp; of running away once. Now she gained a relative freedom, she wasn't going to lose it this stupidly. <br><br>She didn't run away then, but walked further to the room instead. For once she was free to go where she wanted, and at the moment she wanted to check just how fluffy this rug she saw before was. After she tried it, she could confirm it: it was just perfect. As she learned that fact, she returned to her master's side, ready to follow him to the bathroom, a thorough cleaning was in order for her after all. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>09-11-2013, 21:38:49</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				A strange look crossed Brysen’s face as he watched Lei nod having understood him and lift her chin to comply with his words.&nbsp; He wasn’t sure what to expect from the girl he’d been given, especially when he could only guess what she’d been through in the state she was in and knowing her former master.&nbsp; The word gave him pause thinking that he was now her master.&nbsp; He was used to having men under his command but they were not solely reliant on him for their well-being.&nbsp; The idea of having someone he’d be responsible for was a daunting thought since he’d never even had a long term relationship after dedicating his life to the army.<br><br>His battle worn hands reached out and brushed over her neck lightly, as if he was afraid to hurt her, before getting ahold of the clip at the end of the leash.&nbsp; Unhooking it, he slowly pulled it away as he looked at her, wondering at how anyone could treat such a creature with such savagery. Although she was scared, he could see that, she did not seem to be in anyway dangerous or wild that required hurting her.&nbsp; But he’d seen what they were like in how they treated him and she was far below him in status.&nbsp; It amazed him how anyone could see another living creature as little more than something stuck to their boot.&nbsp; Even in war, it was common place to dehumanize the enemy but it was merely a coping method that didn’t last when you saw their innards spilled into the cold air of a battlefield.<br><br>She mewed again and he realized it wasn’t the same sound as when she was frightened, wondering what this one meant.&nbsp; If they were going to be stuck together, he would have to pay attention more and learn this one’s ways.&nbsp; A faint smile curled his lips as he watched her move away from him towards the fireplace, inspecting the rug set before it.&nbsp; He had to search his mind for the right word to describe it and could only find cute, not a word he used very often.&nbsp; The rigid stance he’d been in all day appeared to soften as he watched her and felt the strange urge to pet her but worried at the connotations it brought.&nbsp; The others may have been happy to take what they wanted but it was not his way.<br><br>He pulled his thoughts from this as he Lei returned to his side, surprised that she had so easily.&nbsp; Smiling down at her, he moved from the main room down a short hall that held the bedroom and bath.&nbsp; The floor was tiled but a rug ran the length of the hallway padding the heels of his boots as he walked towards their destination.&nbsp; <br><br>Swinging the door open, he stepped into the bathroom, his boots clicking on the large tiles of the floor.&nbsp; It was covered in a brown tile with flecks of red.&nbsp; The sink and a toilet had been set on one side, gleaming white with brass fixtures and pipes.&nbsp; On the other side was a large, oval bathtub on a raised platform, large enough to accommodate two luxuriously.&nbsp; Polished brass fixtures trimmed the tub and a spout stuck out from the wall in a curving question mark.&nbsp; He approached the knobs and turned them both as the pipes vibrated a bit, a puff of steam coming from the nozzle before hot water began to pour out provided by the steam boiler.&nbsp; Playing with the knobs, he adjusted it until it was just right to his touch and put in the stopper.&nbsp; Grabbing a small, metal decanter that sat nearby along with a few others and poured in a floral smelling bath oil before setting it back down.<br><br>Setting on the edge of the tub, he looked back at Lei for a moment not sure how they were going to do this. “Do you want to check the water, see if it’s right for you,” he asked, a hint of worry showing in his voice.&nbsp; “Are you able to clean yourself or do you need help?”&nbsp; He had to swallow a moment as he thought about the idea, finding it more pleasant then he had expected.&nbsp; It had been a while since he’d been with a female and most of them had been a professional to relieve the tension of a soldier.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>10-11-2013, 02:00:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Brysen seemed pleased with her so far. At least, he didn't shout at her, or order her to heel at once when she went exploring the living room. No, he just kept looking at her, as if he was amused by what he was doing. Lei of course, didn't know what was it that was so amusing. She just saw something new that intrigued her, and went to inspect it. Humans were strange, and very weird things amused them. Like watching her explore, or watching her fetch a ball. She really hoped Brysen won't make her play such stupid games that might be enjoyable only by some dumb dog slaves. <br><br>When she was done, he lead her further into the house. They walked by a hall that might appear small to Brysen, but from Lei's perspective it was really big, and she imagined herself being in a castle. Jago had huge halls like this in his manor house, but they weren't looking anything like this one. This home seemed to be built and furnished with taste, and not with ostentation. <br><br>As they were heading to the bathroom, Lei was admiring the paintings covering the walls. She remembered that a very long lime ago she too liked to draw, and she wasn't that bad at it. But this time was long passed. She could do all those Human things like talking, drawing, or even reading and writing only with her very first master, the old, kind alchemist who was teaching her. Ever since he died though, she was forbidden to behave like a Human.<br><br>Her short reverie ended as she felt the cold marble tiles of the bathroom under her knees and palms. They were here, and master was preparing a hot, steamy bath just for her in this ridiculously big bathtub! Looking around herself, she discovered that the whole bathroom looked like it was taken from some fairy tale, seeming even richer than the rest of the house. <br><br>Lei was like mesmerised, all those luxuries overwhelmed her. From being treated like trash, she came to be treated like some princess! Her master was personally drawing her a warm, nicely smelling bath with lots of bubbles in it, willing to pamper her like all the Nekos should be! It was almost too much for her to bear for one time, but she managed to untie the knots of her skimpy outfit, letting it fall to the ground, although her hands were shaking from excitement.<br><br>When she got naked, she mewed in response to his suggestion, and did just what he told her to. She crawled to the tub, and checked the water temperature, first with the tip of her tail, then with her fingers. She figured it was good, and hopped in the water, splashing some of it around. Yes, that was it. Heaven. So unlike the quick cleanings with cold water she got so used to! As she emerged to the surface in need of air, her expression turned to be literally blissful, like all her problems didn't exist anymore.<br><br>She wondered what, and how to answer Brysen's question. On the one hand, he was her master, and sooner or later he would be intimately touching her anyways, there were no doubts of that. Of course, he had perfect right to use her here and now should he wish it, but Lei had a feeling that didn't want to, not that way at least. He wouldn't do all these nice things for her if it was to brutalise her on the cold floor of his bathroom now, it didn't make any sense. On the other hand, she was perfectly capable of washing herself, and resolved that it was what she should do. She was totally oblivious of Brysen's thoughts, that he was enjoying this, an possibly becoming aroused. Thus, she grabbed a sponge, a bottle of liquid soap, and poured some on the sponge with a mew, meaning that she would do fine.<br><br>She didn't mean that she wanted him to get out however, and continued washing herself, not caring about his presence. First, she soaped all the places that were skin covered, paying a special attention to her round breasts and pussy. Next, she shampooed her hair and fur. She was touching, and displaying herself so casually in front of him, like it was a most natural thing to do. At that moment, she really didn't think of the effect a wet, female naked body has on a Human male. <br><br>When she deemed herself thoroughly cleaned, she lifted herself out of the water, and sat at the edge of the tub. Glancing around her, she didn't see any towels, so she just mewled questioningly, looking at her master. A few seconds out of the water were enough for her to begin trembling, and goosebumps to appear on her skin. She needed to be dried, and quick! Actually, she wouldn't mind it if Brysen dried her. She also wondered what was she going to wear, since her outfit was now good for nothing, and way too dirty to be put back on.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>10-11-2013, 05:14:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He had seen many things in his day but the moment he turned and found Lei already stripped of her clothes gave him pause.&nbsp; His jaw hung loose with his lips parted simply staring at her as she mewed.&nbsp; An eyebrow rose as the logical part of him took in the mew, trying to figure out what it meant, wondering if there was a quizzical inflection.&nbsp; It was probably not the most respectful of him but he found himself watching her test the water before finally slipping into the water, forcing himself to stand up to avoid the sloshing water.&nbsp; When she emerged, she seemed almost a different person, the look on her face happy and no sign of being scared, and he found himself enjoying that look.<br><br>Finding himself staring at her, he felt at a quandary of what to do about clearing her, she wasn’t answering, obviously, and he wasn’t sure he was ready to take such a leap in their relationship.&nbsp; He was her master in name only now, they had no trust or care between them, so they idea of such an intimate act didn’t seem right.&nbsp; She solved the problem by grabbing a sponge and a confident mew as she started washing herself.<br><br>The proper thing would have been to walk away then but he found himself mesmerized for a moment as she cleaned herself.&nbsp; The earlier determination of cute may have been a rush to judgment, or perhaps only one aspect, because she had a lithe sensuality in how she moved that intrigued him.&nbsp; Her body was a woman in so many aspects and so very well formed that he found himself reacting as any man would.&nbsp; It he’d been a gentlemen he may have blushed or felt embarrassed but he was a soldier and she didn’t seem to be worried about his presence.&nbsp; The stirrings he felt watching her hadn’t been felt in a long time, and for a moment he could understand why they were kept as pets, but never how they were kept as she had been.<br>&nbsp; <br>It was interesting to take an accounting of her in full as well, as her new master, seeing where she had fur and where she did not.&nbsp; He assumed it was important to know their bodies in full if something happened, or at least it sounded like a good excuse in his head for his leering.&nbsp; Brysen was sure he would have though up a better reason if the blood had not been flowing from his brain towards other parts of his anatomy as he watched.&nbsp; So fascinated with watching her, he suddenly realized she was done with the scrubbing and rinsing and was rising out of the tub.&nbsp; Her skin glistened so lovely that it took him a moment to find her eyes at her questioning mew.&nbsp; <br><br>Suddenly, she was trembling as he moved towards the small closet built into the walk, opening the wood paneled door to pull out a large towel.&nbsp; Holding it open, he found himself turning back to Lei and wrapping her in it, his own arms wrapping around her to pull her into the towel.&nbsp; Using the ends of the towel, he scrubbed it over her back and shoulders before running it over her front and down over her legs.&nbsp; He was quick and efficient thinking only of getting her dry instead of the places he was touching, the sights he could see.&nbsp; It was only as he got back up to head, trying to dry her fur and ears that he realized their rather strange situation.&nbsp; He pulled the towel around her and tied it off just above her breast.<br><br>“Well, I guess this will do for a moment,” he said, taking a step back to give her room.&nbsp; “Why don’t we go wait in my room while I see if we can get anything fitting for you from the neighbor.&nbsp; I know they have a daughter who’s a young woman, I think you should fit in her stuff.”&nbsp; He smiled trying to look reassuring but realizing he had no good idea about sizing a woman.&nbsp; But it was their best hope until he could get out with her tomorrow to get her something appropriate.&nbsp; “You can hid under the covers of the bed if you get cold I suppose.”<br><br>He started to move towards the door assuming she would follow, opening it up as the steam of humidity leaked out of the doorway around him.&nbsp; Taking only a few steps down the hall, he opened another large door and stepped into his new bedroom.&nbsp; The dresser and the four poster bed was all made from a dark wood that looked almost black polished up.&nbsp; A dark green and gold covering lined the walls.&nbsp; A large, oval rug stuck out on all side of the large bed, plush and soft for the bare feet of sleepers.&nbsp; The bed was covered in burgundy sheets and quilt, with matching pillows all over the bed.&nbsp; He moved to the small metal tube that stuck out near the bed, pulled off the cover and blew into it.&nbsp; A few words to his personal servant and he knew the girl would do her best as he sat down on the bed, sighing as he did wishing he could relax.&nbsp; “You can come up if you want,” he said absentmindedly to Lei.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>10-11-2013, 19:42:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei sighed happily as Brysen began drying her with the big towel. She half expected to be groped in the process, but once again her master proved to be a gentleman, and stuck to the task of simply drying her. She was grateful for that, preferring to have a small pause from sex after her recent rape. She smiled, and even purred fro a few seconds, loving the feeling of his hands drying her sensitive ears. <br><br>She mewled in agreement as he said that they should go to his room. She was curious to see how a master bedroom looked like. Her richest owner so far was Jago, and she has never been allowed in his bedchamber. That was a privilege only earned by the favourite pets, and Lei was never one of the favourites, even when she happened not to be in trouble. <br><br>Lei was a bit skeptical as to the idea of getting clothes for her from the neighbour's daughter. Why would a free Human agree to give her own clothes to a Neko, it almost sounded absurd. It didn't cost anything to try though, besides it was not like she was the one forced to go ask that woman for clothes! All she could do was show her skepticism in her gaze.<br><br>Finally they arrived to the bedroom. As all the other chambers, this one too seemed big, and luxuriously furnished. The furnishings were of a dark colour, and the room seemed even darker because of the curtains that were closed. The air too was somehow heavy, as if the windows hadn't been opened for a while. She was sure that the room would be more pleasant to be in when some light has got the chance to get in, and when the room gets properly aerated. <br><br>As Brysen relaxed on the bed, Lei explored the room a bit, trying to get more familiar with it. She was looking for a comfortable spot to rest, and maybe to sleep in at night, when her master said she could get on the bed if she wanted to. That was unusual, and she didn't make him repeat it twice, and hopped on it with a smile. The huge bed was much softer that it appeared to be at first glance. As she landed, Lei jumped a few times on the mattress, testing it, and then made herself comfortable beside Brysen. <br><br>Lei was laying on her back, looking at the ceiling. Her eyes were closes, she was trying to put everything that happened this day in order in her mind. It wasn't an easy task, so many changes occurred, it was as if she experience a whole revolution in her life. The man relaxing next to her was a good man, she could instinctively feel it. No doubt Jago and the other nobles didn't want him here. His presence might very well bring huge changes in their own comfortable little lives too. <br><br>However, Brysen didn't seem to be happy. Lei wondered why, who wouldn't be happy receiving a huge luxurious house as a gift, and getting a good, well paid job? She then figured that it must be because of her. She was the really unwanted present, and he had to do so many things to make her look presentable... After a few minutes of laying on her back, Lei switched her position so she was half kneeling on the bed, and half laying over Brysen's chest. She purred, and tentatively lifted her hand to trace the scar on his face with her soft fingers. She wanted to show him that she wasn't afraid of that, that it really didn't bother her, and that she was sorry for her reaction when she first saw him. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>10-11-2013, 22:55:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sitting on the bed, Brysen felt the tension still in his back and curling up over his shoulders as if he’d been on a forced march with a heavy pack.&nbsp; His arms were stretched out behind him as he stared at the wall feeling out of sorts as he had since coming here.&nbsp; He could hear her moving about the room as he sat there, giving her space after her ordeal.&nbsp; It was probably bad enough being passed around like cattle much less as a living insult and he didn’t want to spook her any more.&nbsp; The look she had given him on first seeing him was still etched into his mind, a look he was all too familiar with since he’d been living with it since his recovery. <br><br>Then, he felt her jumping up onto the bed, turning his head slightly to look at her.&nbsp; He had to admit cleaned up she was quite beautiful and that fact only shoved the barbed blade in further.&nbsp; The deep male urge to have her, to possess her rose up inside of him watching her but knew such a sweet thing could be his.&nbsp; In his mind, he was hard on the inside and the out, scarred beyond repair.&nbsp; He may have survived the final battle, his sacrifice rejected, but he didn’t feel like he’d survived intact.&nbsp; <br><br>He glanced over as she laid next to him and let his own body fall back onto the bed, the maddening sense of her only inches from him burning along his side.&nbsp; Staring up at the ceiling, his body felt both numb and laced with a strange heat, the feelings conspiring to drive him mad.&nbsp; He wondered for a moment if this was Jago’s intended insult knowing his service record and knowing Lei and how she would probably react to his appearance.&nbsp; Not a slap across the face as it was first appeared but a burr in the saddle constantly reminding him of his faults, his lacking in life.&nbsp; Or perhaps he wanted to see if he was a man like himself who would simply take what his male urges demanded without care, without sympathy, or if he was honorable enough to suffer quietly.&nbsp; <br><br>Brysen felt the bed shift and knew she was moving but when she suddenly leaned over him he found himself still surprised.&nbsp; He could feel the vibration of her purr in his chest which was a strange sensation.&nbsp; When she touched his scar, he visibly flinched at the initial touch as no one had touched the area since the stitches and bandages were removed.&nbsp; Still, he did not move away or stop her, instead just looking up at her like she may have lost her mind, his eyes searching her face for some clue as to what she was thinking.&nbsp; He could feel her warmth as she leaned over him and it made him shiver slightly as did her touch.<br><br>Reaching up, he tentatively brushed his fingertips along her ear and onto her head, scratching just behind her ear.&nbsp; “You don’t have to do that,” he said, but his voice was heavy with strange emotions.&nbsp; After her initially reaction, he found it touching that she would extend herself in such a way to show she wasn’t scared like that anymore.&nbsp; “But thank you.&nbsp; I’m… sorry you have an ugly master.&nbsp; But you don’t have to worry, I won’t treat you like the one who gave me to you.&nbsp; I won’t… expect such things from you like he did.”<br><br>He found himself brushing his hand down over her head and along her neck, enjoying the softness of her and the warmth.&nbsp; The feeling of her hand on his face and the texture of her hair and the warmth of her body all conspired to pull the tension from between his shoulder blades.&nbsp; “You are very beautiful, Lei.&nbsp; I know you have had some bad people taking care of you but I won’t hurt you.&nbsp; And I have no idea of what is expected of me to be your master, so why don’t we just consider this a fresh start.&nbsp; You are mine now so I will keep you safe and take care of you but I may need some guidance as we go along.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>11-11-2013, 01:51:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei felt him tensing as she touched his face. Funny, it was like <em>he</em> was afraid of <em>her</em> now, and not the other way round. It wasn't her goal, however. On the contrary, she wanted to make him relax, to feel better. For a second she thought that maybe touching his scar was hurting him. But on the other hand he didn't seem to be flinching from pain, or ordering her to stop.She figured then that it must something new to him. Surely, he didn't let just anybody caress his face, perhaps only women he was having sex with. Did he even have somebody he cared for? Or was he alone on this world, just like she was?<br><br>She didn't stop then, even when he said she wasn't required to do what she did. She just shook her head, and purred, his hand scratching behind he ease felt absolutely divine! <em>"I want to do that. And you're not ugly."</em> She would have said if she wasn't afraid to talk. They were just beginning to get along. If he heard her talking, he would freak out for sure. And he would sell her, like her former masters. And Lei didn't want that anymore. No, she really wished Brysen to be her master till the end of her life, and she would everything to stay with him. Perhaps she would even agree to play some stupid games!<br><br>Lei was practically melting in his embrace as he was petting her. It's been such a long time since somebody was this gentle with her, that she practically forgot just how good it could feel, and now couldn't help but keep purring. Brysen might be new at owning&nbsp; a pet, but so far he was doing a great job, and didn't need any guidance in her opinion. She did feel safe with him, like nothing bad could happen to her anymore. <br><br>They were laying like this for a few moments, when somebody knocked at the door. Intrigued, Lei lifted herself from Brysen's chest, and knelt on the bed, facing the door. Soon enough, a young girl in a maid uniform entered the door. "I did what you ordered me, master Marsaad. I went to the neighbours, and I managed to get this." She said, showing him some neatly folded clothes she was holding. "They were... Surprised, to say the least, but miss Rebecca said she never wears these anyways. Oh, and I guess this is the Neko they was for! My, isn't she cute, you're so lucky, master!" The maid exclaimed, looking at Lei.<br><br>As she was talking, Lei got a bit closer to the maid, called Jenny, curious to see who this new person is. "Hey, hello, little one!"&nbsp; Jenny said with a grin on her face. "Look what I got for you, maybe they'll be a little big for you, but it's better than nothing." While she was talking, Jenny bent down a little, and briefly caressed Lei's ears. "What's her name, master?" She asked, putting the clothes on the bed next to him.<br><br>"A pretty name, it fits her." She commented when she got her answer. "Well, I'll leave you two here. Don't hesitate to call me if you need anything, master!" She said, and left the room with a bow.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>11-11-2013, 03:36:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A hint of surprise showed in Brysen’s face as Lei didn’t seem repelled by him or his ministrations.&nbsp; If anything, she seemed beyond content with his scratching and petting which created a strange line of thought in his mind.&nbsp; A part of him, that cynical side that had lived through so much, shouted she was just pretending because she didn’t want to end up back at Jago’s.&nbsp; He knew it wasn’t true deep down but he also knew that part of him was his protector, keeping him from getting hurt in the long run.&nbsp; But she had shaken her head and she seemed to be enjoying herself, so he let those thoughts go, hoping she was true at heart.<br><br>With her pressing against his chest, he could feel her purrs deep into his bones and reverberating through his body.&nbsp; It seemed to push out the tension that lingered until he felt almost drowsy laying there petting her, his hands enjoying the feel of her.&nbsp; Still, as his eyes would start to slide close being too relaxed, they would quickly open again as he remembered he had to watch himself.&nbsp; He found it would be easy to let his hand wander and see how the rest of her would feel but he didn’t want her running from his room.<br><br>So relaxed, he was almost startled when he heard the knock at the door, completely forgetting about the task he’d set his servant.&nbsp; Exhaling sharply, he sat up on the bed and brushed his hands over his chest, trying to smooth out his shirt.&nbsp; The skin around his scar was warm from where she had touched him, like a lingering flame not ready to be extinguished.&nbsp; “Come in,” he said, finding he was breathing heavier than normal.<br><br>Brysen smiled when he saw Jenny enter the room with an armful of clothes, happy she had been successful in his task as he wasn’t sure what he would have done otherwise.&nbsp; One of his shirts would probably have slipped right off of her and he didn’t know the city well enough to find a decent merchant at this time. “Thank you, Jenny,” he said, sounding a bit apologetic.&nbsp; He wasn’t use to anyone but a batman in the military running to get him stuff and they were far and few in-between when in real war.&nbsp; “I hate I had to put you in such a position as to have to beg for clothes next door.”&nbsp; He smiled seeing her give Lei some attention, glad to see she wasn’t rude or upset by having her here.<br><br>“Her name is Lei,” he said.&nbsp; “It is quite pretty and appropriate, I agree.”&nbsp; He took the clothes she offered and laid them out on the bed, turning back to Jenny as she excused herself.&nbsp; “Thank you Jenny.”&nbsp; He could only think of what his neighbors must think of him at this point but he’d never been one for worrying about what others think.&nbsp; If he had, he wouldn’t have joined the army and ended up where he was.&nbsp; Looking over at Lei, he wondered if this was the reason for his strange fates, the twist and turns of his life that end up here.&nbsp; She needed someone to keep her safe, to trust, and he need someone who wouldn’t hurt him, who wouldn’t look at him with disgust.<br><br>Turning towards Lei, he smiled and sat back down on the bed next to the clothes, realizing he was utterly clueless when it came to women and their needs.&nbsp; He’d been in love once but had never been married, had never dwelt with a woman for any length of time in his years.&nbsp; “I hope you have some fashion sense Lei because I have none.&nbsp; If the king wasn’t supplying me with a uniform I’d probably look like some jester ready to do juggling at the faire.&nbsp; This will only be temporary, we can go into town tomorrow and get you some more fitting stuff.&nbsp; And perhaps a better collar too.”&nbsp; He pursed his lips at the thought, not sure if keeping her in a collar was appropriate but he realized it would probably not look well on him from others that saw her without a collar.&nbsp; For all he knew, it might be required.&nbsp; “I do not have to report to Lord Markus for another day, we might as well get you in order.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>12-11-2013, 00:47:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Jenny left the room, Lei crawled back to the bed, wishing to see the clothes the servant brought for her. She looked at Brysen with a mew, and when she received approval from him, she began to unfold and inspect them. The neighbours were a noble family, but the clothes miss Rebecca gave looked more ordinary than anything. There was no doubt why she didn’t like wearing them, and was only too happy to get rid of them.<br><br>Lei however, was used to wearing skimpy rags, so these garments appeared luxurious to her, and at least way better than what most pets usually wore. If Brysen stuck to his words, tomorrow they would go to a shop and buy some appropriate outfits for her. That too will be something new to her. It wasn’t the way things were done at Jago’s. The rags she was wearing before, belonged to another pet before. It was like with being allowed in the master bedroom, new clothes were only for the favourites. <br><br>She snorted when Brysen said he hoped she had some sense of fashion since he was completely lacking of it. That was funny. How could she have a sense of fashion, of all things, when she was never able to choose her own clothes? Usually, it was the role of the masters. They were the ones to make choices for their pets, including the choices of clothing. The pets were here to please their masters, it was logical then that the Humans made them wear what they like seeing them in. <br><br>A better collar would be a good thing. Hers , although made of a good quality leather, was already looking old when she arrived at Jago’s. She would need a new name tag also, something that would say who does she belong to. There still was the name of Jago on the little metallic rectangle dangling from the collar, and if she happened to get lost, Jago would be the one contacted to come and collect her at the kennels, not Brysen. <br><br>Shaking her head at Brysen’s comment about his own clothing, she undid the knot on the towel, making it slide to the floor, leaving her naked. She quickly began dressing herself though, not letting her master stare at her body for too long. What Rebeca gave her, consisted on a pair of panties, and a long sweater, long enough to look like a short dress on her. There was no bra however, so she’ll just have to do without. When she was done, she placed herself on all fours in the middle of the room, displaying herself to her master. She looked at him and mewed questioningly, hoping he would approve of her looks. <br><br>Now she was dressed, Lei realised that she didn’t eat anything since the previous day. She wouldn’t say anything though, but her belly did the job for her, and a growl could be heard coming from it. Lei blushed, and looked away, embarrassed. But now she thought about food once, she just became hungrier. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>12-11-2013, 04:03:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A rather loud laugh escaped Brysen when Lei snorted having grown use to only the purrs and the mews since he’d met her.&nbsp; It was a uniquely human sound and it delighted him for some unknown reason.&nbsp; Perhaps it made him feel like he wasn’t with some pet but a being as intelligent and understanding as he was.&nbsp; He’d heard little things about Nekos and most seemed to indicate they were rather vapid, slow witted things but Lei seemed to be none of these things.&nbsp; &nbsp;So she didn’t think he was laughing at her, he reached over and ran his fingers along her ears gently, finding he liked how the fur tickled his fingertips.<br><br>“I guess we’ll have to work together on it then,” he said, shrugging his shoulders.&nbsp; “I’m new to all this Lei and certainly not use to such a beautiful Neko being around me or a beautiful woman.”&nbsp; If she was to be his, which fate seemed to have decided as she seemed ok with, he was going to see she had the best he could get for her.&nbsp; She was a reflection of his, and more than that, she was part of his household now which meant more than it probably did to most in this land.&nbsp; He had accepted responsibility for her, it may have been not to give Jago the satisfaction, and that meant he had to take care of her, protect her, as his own.<br><br>As he looked over the clothes, he looked up to find her undressed and reaching for clothes, turning his head so as not to stare.&nbsp; He knew he had every right to gaze at her if he wanted but he felt he hadn’t earned the right for such liberties.&nbsp; Staring at the wall, he wondered if it was right to even think they might reach a point where liberties could be taken, where they would be intimate, but it seemed a crazy idea.&nbsp; He could imagine what she’d been through, he was not some farm boy who’d seen but a skirmish, he knew the evil men were capable of.&nbsp; Sparing a glance over at her, seeing her already in the sweater, he knew he would not hurt her and would give her what she needed.<br><br>When she was done, he looked over fully and watched her display herself and smiled.&nbsp; He couldn’t resist walking up to her and leaning down, scratching between her ears.&nbsp; “You look very beautiful, Lei,” he said.&nbsp; Suddenly, her stomach growled and he found himself raising an eyebrow before a scowl appeared on his face realizing Jago and his people had probably let her practically starve.&nbsp; “Poor baby,” he said, rubbing the palm of his hand over the back of her head.&nbsp; He slipped his feet out of the boots he wore leaving himself only in a pair of knit grey socks as he padded towards the door.&nbsp; “Why don’t we get you some food?”<br><br>Opening the door, he slowly padded down the hall and back into the main room, heading through it as he passed in front of the glass doors they had entered earlier.&nbsp; Towards the other side, he found the door that led off to the left of the main room and down two steps into a small dining area with a table much too large for one person to bother with.&nbsp; To the right of the table, he found the kitchen and was glad Jenny wasn’t there, not wanting to feel like a burden so early on to his only servant.&nbsp; He moved past the hearth and found the store room filled with some dried food and fresh stocks from the market.&nbsp; A haunch of dried pork hung from the ceiling that he moved about as he moved back into the kitchen, finding some bread that had been baked earlier.&nbsp; Looking over at Lei, he felt a little helpless.&nbsp; “I’m going to guess you’ll eat meat but not sure what would be good.&nbsp; There’s some dry, salt pork and we have some fish.&nbsp; I could seer some up for you, I’m not totally useless in a mess.”<br><br>Grabbing a goblet, he filled it with some water and set it at the small table that was in the kitchen area.&nbsp; He grabbed a metal plate and began to look around realizing he was still so new to this place.&nbsp; In that moment, he wished she could talk but he knew that wasn’t possible from what he understood so he would have to do his best.&nbsp; He sliced off some pork and some jerky he’d always favored as well as grabbing some bits of fruits and vegetables onto the plate along, setting it down with the water along with the bread and a thing of butter.&nbsp; He sat down on the bench seat and patted next to him.&nbsp; “Come on up here and let’s see what’s good.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>13-11-2013, 01:15:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Unfortunately, Lei did understood that Brysen was laughing at her. He most probably thought that she heard a master snorting a few times, and now she was trying to reproduce the sound, being completely ridiculous in the process. Actually, she should be more on her guards. If she doesn't pay enough attention to what she does, she might accidentally say a Human word once, and then, who know what could happen. No doubt, Brysen wouldn't call her beautiful anymore. And Lei did appreciate to be called like this, even if she knew she was far from being beautiful, it made her feel relatively pretty. <br><br>When her belly growled, however, this feeling disappeared as quickly as it appeared. That wasn't a ladylike thing to do, at all. Brysen didn't seem to be outraged by that though. If anything, he though it adorable. That was good, he still considered her as a pet even after her little accident. Besides, the belly growl was an excellent means of communication. Now her master knew she needed nourishment. She was glad it happened, or she would probably have to wait the Gods know how long till he got hungry himself, and decided to feed her too while he was eating dinner. <br><br>Both of them went to look for the kitchen then, Brysen exploring the house just as much as she did, apparently. She couldn't know that for sure, but it seemed to her that he arrived here very recently. She suspected he was new to the area, but she couldn't know that he was <em>this</em> new, as not to feel completely comfortable in his own house. As they walked, they passed near a dining room with a table so long, that it could accommodate at least two dozen guests, if no more. Lei didn't have time to count the chairs, they passed the dining room too quickly.She wondered how would this big room be while full of people. One day her master would have to throw a party, or something anyways, so she would see then. <br><br>The kitchen looked like the complete opposite of the formal dining room. It was painted in a warm colour, an a fire burning under the oven made it feel cozy. Lei decided that she liked the room a lot, and that she might come here to pay a visit to Jenny if her master was otherwise occupied. The smell was good too. Thanks to her sensitive nose she could guess where everything was stocked, probably much better than Brysen, who seemed to have quite a lot of trouble with opening the right cupboards.<br><br>Finally, he did locate the store room (which Lei located immediately as she set foot in the kitchen). As expected, it was filled with everything needed to cook a whole lot of full meals. Lei couldn't help but find him adorable in his turn. The way he was now, it was like he was a lost little child, not like a fierce general of the Emperor's army. She had to bite her lip hard not to burst with a laughter, and managed to mewl in agreement when he asked her if she does eat meat. Of course she does, cats are carnivorous animals after all, everybody knows that! Obviously, fish were a favourite, but she could eat other kinds of meat as well, even the things that the stomach of a regular cat would never tolerate, that was the advantage of having a half human body. <br><br>Lei patiently waited for everything to be set on the table to jump on the bench next to Brysen. She made herself comfortable kneeling on it, since sitting would look too human, and looked at the food before her. First of all, she needed to drink something. Without thinking, she grabbed the goblet with both her hands, and drank from it. Usually, her water was being placed in&nbsp; bowl on the floor, just as her food, and she was supposed to lap it, but her master didn't seem to be aware of the fact that a pet should eat on the floor. Not that she was going to complain, but she wondered whether it would be better for her to pretend to be helpless, and not to know what to do with all this. <br><br>She was too hungry to think about those details however, and she quickly grabbed a few slices of pork, and literally devoured them. Gods, it felt divine! Finally some real, tasty food just for her! She then grabbed a piece of bread, and was about to take the knife to put some butter over it. She hesitated in the last moment though, her arm stopping in the air. That would be too much. Nekos weren't supposed to know how to use utensils! She decided to ale the sweetest, most helpless puppy eyes she could, and mewl meaningfully while she pushed the butter towards Brysen. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>13-11-2013, 03:32:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As he walked around the kitchen, Brysen felt like Lei was laughing at him, though it was only in her eyes.&nbsp; The way she looked at him as if his confusion didn’t make any sense to her, like he was the court jester thrown into an unknown play to play the idiot.&nbsp; He had only started to acquaint himself with the house but this area Jenny seemed to have firmly in hand and he always felt like he was intruding on her, making things more difficult.&nbsp; The idea that a cat seemed to be laughing at him and looked around like she could have done a quicker job of it made him feel a little more clumsy.<br><br>Sitting down, he looked over when Lei got up and knelt on the bench, looking at her curiously.&nbsp; He’d never seen a neko before up close but he’d always assumed they could do most things like humans, since they looked like them other than the fur, ears and tail.&nbsp; But, they were breed for pets and you didn’t see your cat sitting down so he supposed it was one of those things he’d have to learn, the limitation of his charge.&nbsp; But then she grabbed the goblet and he found himself watching her, growing curious about this one next to him.<br><br>The smile crept back over his lips as he watched her eat and saw the look on her face, looking absolutely adorable and beautiful.&nbsp; He found himself enjoying the company even if they couldn’t communicate that well, her presence seemed to relax him.&nbsp; It didn’t make any sense but it felt good not to be alone, even if it was forced on her.&nbsp; Taking a grape, he popped it in his mouth and watched as she grabbed a piece of bread, moving with determination until she suddenly paused, her hand reaching for something as she did.&nbsp; Then, she suddenly gave him the sweetest look he had ever seen, making him laugh lightly or he’d have to have ‘awed’ at her expression.<br><br>She pushed the butter towards him and he had to laugh.&nbsp; Reaching out, he grabbed a knife and took the piece of bread from her, his fingers bushing over hers to take it.&nbsp; He slathered the bit of bread with butter as he looked over at her, a wondering look in his eyes.&nbsp; “You’ll have to forgive me, we never had any Nekos or other type pets growing up other than a regular cat, so I’m a bit dumb when it comes to these things.&nbsp; I guess I always assumed if you were humanoid you could do the same things.&nbsp; But I guess most people prefer you to be helpless, to have to rely on your master for everything.&nbsp; The more ways to control you.”&nbsp; He frowned at the idea as he realized just how true his words were.&nbsp; <br><br>Handing her back the bread, he reached up and scratched behind her ear, finding petting her slightly addicting.&nbsp; Since the bath, her fur felt good and she seemed to enjoy it, which only increased his enjoyment of it.&nbsp; As he did, he leaned a little closer to her as they sat together.&nbsp; “I know you’ve had bad men as your master, Lei.&nbsp; But I promise I’ll take care of you to the best of my ability.&nbsp; I can’t promise things will be easy, I don’t think I’m really wanted here, but I don’t plan on going anywhere.&nbsp; And, I know I can’t make up for what people like Jago did to you, but I will try to show you the world isn’t so bad, and humans aren’t so bad.&nbsp; But, again, I’ll need your help on this.”<br><br>He fell silent for a moment as he realized there was one subject he’d avoided mentioning, knowing that was her kind’s main purpose with most people.&nbsp; A slight tremble ran though his fingers as he pet her, looking at her intently.&nbsp; “And, I want you to know I don’t expect anything from you, things like your other masters probably have.&nbsp; Neko or human, it is unconscionable to take such from a woman without their permission.&nbsp; And you obviously can’t give permission.&nbsp; So, you don’t need to worry.”&nbsp; He smiled at her hoping she would believe him, hoping she’d feel safe here.&nbsp; Maybe he was too broken to be like the others but he preferred to think he had too much honor, something most people didn’t even understand these days.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>14-11-2013, 02:52:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei practically snatched the butered bread from Brysen's hand, and devoured it just as quickly as she did with the pork before. She was really famished, and her animal instinct took over everything at the moment; there was plenty of food disposable, so she had to feed herself. It wasn't without appreciating it, however. She full well realised that the bread must have ben freshly baked and still warm, in other words, with the butter that began to delicately melt oval it, it was absolutely delicious. If she was going to eat as well as this every day, three time a day, she would soon regain the few kilograms she was lacking, and will have to start watching herself so not to become overly fat after a while! For now though, she was a bit too light for her height, so she could eat whatever she wanted. <br><br>Her perfect moment was spoiled a bit however, as Brysen talked about bad masters controlling her. Her expression immediately got more serious, and she shivered involuntarily. That wasn't something she would like to remember, and certainly she didn't want him talk about it now. Now was a very happy time, they were both having a fresh start, and she didn't wish to fall back on her past. Brysen made himself be forgiven though, by petting her head. Lei was really growing to love it. She could very well reach her ears with her hands herself, but the feeling was never the same when she was scratching them. It was more like trying to make an itching disappear, and when it was Brysen, it was just a loving caress.<br><br>She mewed, acknowledging what he said. She knew he was going to take a good care of her. Lei might not know him very well, but she could instinctively feel that he was a good person. Jago, for instance, clearly wasn't. He was literally emitting a special unpleasant smell, something that the humans didn't seem to detect, but his pets did. Lei pitied those who stayed in her household. Some of them had a good life, being his favourites, but some were just like her: toys that he enjoyed to see hurt. <br><br>She didn't know how Brysen wanted her to help him. As she could <em>do</em> anything! She could be the best behaved pet ever though, and that's what she resolved to be. She will try not being demanding, and whenever they're in public, she will behave like the most natural animal, just as society expected her to be. Jago will not have his satisfaction. He chose her to be the humiliating gift, because he suspected she would embarrass Brysen by being stubborn and disobedient. He will never see that. Jago didn't deserve her obedience and loyalty, but Brysen did. If anything, he will be complimented to have such a perfect pet.<br><br>Another mewl, a cheerful one this time. Lei was happy that her master wanted to show her the world, and how much of a pleasant place it can be. Her past would never disappear, but she was sure that in time, she could stop thinking about it so much, and perhaps even forget it, after a long, long time. But she couldn't do it alone, just by herself. She would need Brysen to keep her safe an happy if she wanted her mind wounds to heal one day. <br><br>His last statement really surprised her. She always assumed he would want to have sex with her, and judging by the way he was looking at her while she was naked, he did desire her body. If he tried anything on her, she knew she wouldn't object. She might feel unhappy about that, but she's been trained, conditioned to accept a master's advances with a smile, however fake it might be. She opened her eyes wide, and she gasped as she heard him saying something about her giving him permission. What was he talking about? Giving a permission? Her? To him? It seemed absurd! She was the one to demand permission for everything, not the other way round! Shocked, but also grateful that he had given this right to decide about herself, she closed her eyes, and pressed her head to his shoulder, her arms slipping around his neck in a hug. <br><br>He was being so good to her, Lei wished to be able to tell him that, but she didn't dare, not wanting to ruin everything between them. All she could do, was to give him this warm hug. A few moments like this, and she began to feel sleepy. Her eyes closing by themselves, and not wishing to reopen. She yawned, and simply leaned on him. She wondered where will her master put her to sleep. Would it be a cage, so he's not afraid that she'll escape during the night? Or maybe will she have her own little pet bed where she could comfortably curl into a ball? Of course, the greats honour would be to be allowed on the master's bed, but that was very rare, even for the very favourite, pampered pets of the nobles. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>14-11-2013, 04:46:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A contented but concerned look showed on Brysen’s face as he watched her take the still warm bread and devoured it quickly.&nbsp; He’d only seen men eat like that after a long time in the field with only rations stretched thin, driven by the taste as much as the need to fill their bellies for once.&nbsp; It only plucked at his range for Jago and his kind in this city even more, honorless dogs not worthy of his concern.&nbsp; He knew he’d be ruffling some feathers with his new position in the city but he was happy to do so with these kinds of people.&nbsp; <br><br>As she mewed he began to gather a sense of the different tones she had, running them over in his mind.&nbsp; He found it easy to get lost in caring for her and learning Lei’s ins and outs while pushing the real world away a little, dedicating his mind to the task.&nbsp; While he hoped he could be a safe haven for her, a place where she felt safe, he hoped he might find something in her that he hadn’t known was lost until she showed up.&nbsp; It was easy to pretend all ways right with the world when there were lots of things going on around you, when mere survival was the foremost concern.&nbsp; But in the quiet of this new life, he’d begun to learn he was alone in this world, having abandoned his first life and finding most of his friends from the army dead or far away.&nbsp; He needed companionship at least, anything else seemed to wild an idea to find in this world anymore.<br><br>He found he liked seeing her happy and hoped to keep that look on her face.&nbsp; It was not something he was use to in his last years on this planet, making people happy in any sense of the word.&nbsp; The kingdom had seemed to be at continual war since his enrollment in the army and he’d proved exceptionally good at ending other creature’s lives.&nbsp; It had won him award that he didn’t think he deserved for the actions of spilling the blood of hundreds of sentient creatures.&nbsp; It had made him feel disconnected from the world, like an airship that had been untethered with no crew to man it, drifting on the currents with no direction and no soul.<br><br>He was taken aback but the look on her face as her eyes widened in surprise at his words, like it was such a shock that he would not take advantage of her.&nbsp; That she found it such a startling statement only reinforced his idea that it was the right one.&nbsp; And then suddenly she was hugging his neck and burying her head in his shoulder.&nbsp; His own arms instinctively wrapped around her and hugged her, gently petting her with one hand.&nbsp; It was a strange but feeling her hugging him he felt alive for the first time in a long while, a ship with a soul.&nbsp; He held her as long as he allowed and slipped his arms away from her when she sat back.&nbsp; <br><br>Hearing her yawn, he found himself yawning himself and shaking his head.&nbsp; “Don’t do that, it’s contagious,” he said, with a laugh in his voice.&nbsp; His body ached with the tension from the day, unlike the pain from a long day of making war.&nbsp; If it wasn’t for the relaxation Lei’s presences had brought, he wouldn’t have been surprised if some of his muscles would have snapped from the tension built up over the dinner he’d had with Jago and his people.&nbsp; Feeling her leaning on him, he realized how tired he was as well from the long day and the strange evening he’d spent with his new houseguest.&nbsp; It would be nice to relax and let the day slip away, to look forward to a day where he only had to worry about finding some things for Lei.<br><br>“I suppose we should get some sleep,” he said, pulling away.&nbsp; The puzzled look crossed his face as he suddenly realized he had no place to have her sleep, not sure what the correct protocol was for a pet like her.&nbsp; She didn’t sit like a human, did she sleep like one?&nbsp; His hands grasped her shoulders gently as he looked at her, trying to figure out the correct thing to say and knowing he would probably not say it.&nbsp; He’s learned long ago words were not his forte and was better with action, following through on his deeds.&nbsp; “So… I don’t think we have a spare room prepared.&nbsp; You seemed to like the rug by the fireplace, if you want to lay there.&nbsp; Or… I mean… the bed is way too large for me alone.&nbsp; If you wish to take a side.”&nbsp; He looked away from her for a moment, not letting his eyes meet hers.&nbsp; “Though I am a restless sleeper so I can’t promise a uninterrupted sleep.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>15-11-2013, 00:28:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei snorted again as she saw Brysen yawn after her. She hoped she wasn't making the same kind of face than him while yawning, or she would be too embarrassed to yawn again in his presence. She mewled, trying to suppress a giggle. Sure it was contagious, but how could she not do that? She was tired, exhausted even. If she could, he would just fall asleep right here, on this very kitchen bench, and Jenny would wake her up the next day when she comes here to make breakfast. It wouldn't be appropriate for her now though, and Brysen wouldn't let her sleep in the kitchen. <br><br>Lei just realised that her own status in the hierarchy changed after she moved here. Before, she was just one of the many animals animals in the household, and didn't mean more than a horse for instance. Yet now, she was the only pet here, which meant she automatically had the highest position in the pet hierarchy, and such pets didn't sleep in the kitchen. Actually, they usually were allowed to have some place just for them, but a whole room? Lei would never know what to do in a huge room just for herself. She didn't have any possessions to hide there, and she didn't know if she wouldn't be scared to sleep in a big bed alone. <br><br>She looked at him when he grasped her shoulders to talk to her, and yawned again. Brysen was trying to figure out where to put her to sleep, but frankly at that very moment, she couldn't care less about what he was saying. She forced herself to look him in the eyes, but managed to keep eye contact only for a few seconds. Her eyelids were way too heavy, and her eyes just closed themselves as she yawned again. Cage, rug, sofa, bed, a room or whatever... So long as she could lay somewhere, and not be forced to keep her body in a sitting position.<br><br>A few more seconds, and it was too much. Lei simply fell forward, fast asleep, and if it wasn't for brysen being here to catch her, she would have fallen from the bench and hit the ground. Now he had to either leave her here, either carry her to the place of his choice. Where was that, she would discover in the morning when she wakes up. <br><br>If this place was to be her master's bed, he could be as much as a restless sleeper as he wanted. Nothing would interrupt her sleep. Unlike him, Lei was a very heavy sleeper. There could be a great noise around her, people shouting, or even a battle, and she wouldn't wake up. If her body needed rest, then it would rest, no matter what, and she couldn't do anything against it. It often was a handicap. When she was supposed to be awake, and she was wanted to sleep for instance. It was really hard to wake her up. <br><br>The problem was, that she often had nightmares. and even then, it was practically impossible to wake her up to stop the bad dream. It was just one more thing for her to endure. Tonight however,&nbsp; she hoped that she would pass a calm night. There was nothing to be afraid of, she was safe, and she knew nobody will hurt her again. Besides, tomorrow was supposed to be a beautiful day, and she would get to know Brysen better. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>15-11-2013, 04:18:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Brysen looked strangely at Lei as she started to fade before him, seemingly not paying attention to what he was saying.&nbsp; He was about to ask her if she was ok when she suddenly leaned into him and started to breath slowly, like only&nbsp; a sleeping person could.&nbsp; Sitting on the bench, he felt flabbergasted at the turn of events with her laying against him asleep so quickly.&nbsp; He’d known soldiers that could fall asleep sitting up in trenches and such but never so quickly or deeply.&nbsp; Wrapping his arms around her, he looked around strangely as if this was some strange joke or a bad dream but the longer he sat there nothing changes.<br><br>Holding her tight, he carefully slid himself from the bench while holding her upright, when suddenly he realized his hands were cupping her breast to hold her upright.&nbsp; His eyes widened and he pulled his hands from her but she suddenly started to tip forward and he was forced to grab her again, walking his fingers down so it was just below her chest.&nbsp; He breathed a sigh of relieve that he was quick enough as he didn’t want to explain to the silent catgirl how she got the bump on the forehead.&nbsp; “You are one strange pet,” he whispered to no one, shaking his head.&nbsp; <br><br>Gently, he let his hand at her back slide down until his arm was around her lower back as his other hand slide under her rump and pushed its way towards her knees.&nbsp; With a small huff of air, he lifted her full off the bench and into the air, cradling her against his chest.&nbsp; Walking towards the doorway, he paused, realizing the travel was going to take some care and guidance. Turning himself, he slide her head through first and then her legs, her feet brushing against the doorway.&nbsp; He had the occasional incident where her head hit some object on a table or her feet.&nbsp; And it was strange as he kept feeling her tail bumping against his thighs.&nbsp; <br><br>He finally arrived at his bedroom feeling exhausted and a bit shaky from worrying about hurting his charge on the way here.&nbsp; Moving around the bed, he sat he held her firmly against him, balancing her in one arm as he grabbed the quilt and sheets and tossed it aside.&nbsp; Then, he slowly lowered her down onto the bed and settled her head on the pillows before drawing up the covers over her, tucking her in.&nbsp; He wasn’t sure her kind slept under covers but he decided to err on the side of caution and cover her up.&nbsp; Walking back to the closet, he slowly stripped off the rest of his gear and put it to be washed, leaving him naked as he shut off the rest of the gas lamps but the oil lamp that flickered by his side on the bedside table.&nbsp; Reaching into the closet, he grabbed a pair of soft, short breeches he wore for bed, slipping them on. <br><br>Walking back to the bed, he paused to see Lei sleeping on the other side of the bed, smiling slightly before slipping under the covers.&nbsp; He reached a hand out and shut the lamp off, leaving them in the darkened room, the only light the moon beams shining through the windows.&nbsp; He tried to be positive about having Lei here even as a part of him said it would only be bad.&nbsp; Laying there, he slowly drifted off to sleep.<br><br><hr><br>The night brought some of the same dreams as every other night, the blood covering him, soaking his armor.&nbsp; He dripped in crimson as he fought through the throngs of enemies, a rage of blades and powder as he decimated his enemy.&nbsp; First the soldiers came, slaughtered under his fury.&nbsp; Then their families he left widowed and orphaned, spewing blood and bile.&nbsp; Then his own men, holding their guts in as they pleaded to have the pain taken away.&nbsp; A dark shadow hung over him through hit all, his muscles burning with ache from the slaughter.&nbsp; And then, he was slicing through hundreds of Lei’s who begged for mercy, asked not to be hurt any more.&nbsp; He tried to stop but he couldn’t, roaring like the thunder as they cried in agony.<br><br><hr><br>He woke with a start drenched in sweat, tossing the covers off of him.&nbsp; A shiver moved through his body as he lay on the bed, breathing heavily.&nbsp; He held his hand over his heart, feeling it thudding in his chest.&nbsp; Staring up at the wall, he slowed his breathing as he tried to relax the tension filling his muscles.&nbsp; Day had not broken and he wanted a few more hours of sleep if his body would let him, slowly drifting off.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>16-11-2013, 00:27:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Lei drifted off to her deep slumber, she wasn't entirety conscious of what happening with and around her. However, it wasn't that she didn't feel absolutely anything. That's why she subconsciously smiled when Brysen accidentally cupped her breasts, the feeling being obviously pleasant to her. She also emitted a few contented sighs and purred when he picked her up and pressed her against his chest, that too feeling good to her. Maybe she wouldn't react the exact same way should she be conscious, and her rational mind controlling her. Yet now, it was her good nature and her instinct taking over her, and these reactions couldn't be more truthful. Deep inside of her, she already knew that Brysen was to be entirely trusted. <br><br>She did wince and tense when her head accidentally bumped against some objects, but it didn't hurt her enough to wake up. Each time her body tensed, so did her tail, which made it brush against Brysen's legs. If she was a more delicate pet like some pampered Nekos were, she would never be able to sleep through the small journey to Brysen's bedroom. But she was just herself, and after all she's been through, she learned to ignore most things that might disturb her resting time, even if she was to wonder where did some of her ruses come from when she woke up.<br><br>As soon as she's been set on the bed and tucked in, she wriggled on the mattress making herself some kind of a comfortable nest with the bedsheets. She wasn't used to such luxuries, but somehow her body knew well what to do, even though she only rarely had something to cover herself at night. Actually, Nekos didn't exactly need any covers, their furs with their clothing being enough to keep them warm. If however, their owners let them sleep under something, they were only too happy to be even warmer than usually. <br><br><hr><br>Lei began dreaming as soon she fell asleep. At first, she was traveling in a coach by a very jolty road, jolty enough for her to bump against everything possible in the coach. Luckily, this journey ended soon, and the door to the coach opened by itself. Then, she flew outside, and realised she was in heaven. Literally. The sky was baby blue, and there were big fluffily clouds everywhere. She laughed, and after a short flight, she landed on one of those clouds, discovering that it was the softest thing she ever laid on. When she thought she couldn't feel better, the sun rose, and warmed her body, making her feel divine.<br><br><hr><br>Lei's peaceful dream had only been slightly disturbed once that night, when Brysen violently woke up from his own nightmare, and make the mattress move a bit by sitting up so quickly. Lei never woke up, of course, but shifted her position too. Again, it was her instinct commanding, making her body get closer to his, and use his chest as a pillow, to finish her night that way. <br><br>In the morning, she was the first to wake up, finding herself half laying on her master, both of them on his huge king size bed, no less! She was very surprised, the last thing she remembered being herself kneeling on the bench in the kitchen and eating dinner. She figured Brysen must have transported her here, but she wondered what did she do to deserve sleeping here, on his own bed. It did seem to have a good effect on her though. She didn't exactly remember her dream, but for the first time in a few years, it wasn't a nightmare, but something very pleasant and relaxing. <br><br>After a few seconds, when she completely regained her consciousness, she realised that her master was still sleeping. Looking at him, she noticed that his face very close to her, and since he would never know what she's doing, she decided to take a closer look on this. His facial traits weren't unpleasant, on the contrary, she found them rather handsome. Then, there was that scar of his, the one that scared her so much when she first saw him. She now knew it was silly of her. Brysen wasn't scary at all, and his scar wasn't that repulsive as most people, and incidentally himself too, might think. Like the first time she was getting acquainted with him, she traced it gently with her fingers. That was it. Nothing more than some extra skin he got after being cut with a knife or something. It was just like after a bad scratch, just bigger. <br><br>When she was done with that, she passed to further exploring his face. It was funny, after the night, it was like some kind of fur grew up on his chin. Only this fur wasn't long and soft like hers, but very short and scratchy. Lei never saw a man with a beard, since shaving was a fashion must amend the nobles, and she never saw a man before his morning toilette. She found herself oddly fascinated with that, and couldn't help herself from touching it, giggling, not caring to be overly gantlet and quiet as not to wake Brysen up. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>16-11-2013, 05:00:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was a strange feeling that Brysen felt drifting in that half-asleep and half-conscious state, that long or short period before you wait or drift back into the darkness.&nbsp; It was like a tickle or a brush over his face that caused the muscles in his face to twitch.&nbsp; Before, he’d felt the strange pressure and warmth on his chest but the warmth was so comforting it had pushed him back to sleep easily.&nbsp; It was strange but the warmth and slight pressure seemed to ease his mind and his body as slept on, no more nightmares coming from the dark corners of his mind.&nbsp; In fact, he remembered a dream sitting on a blanket, watching the airships go over head, Lei laying with her belly up as they at lunch in the bright sun.&nbsp; The wind had blown through his hair and it was soon after that the strange sensations started.<br><br>As he lay there breathing quietly, he felt the tickle along his scar, a familiar sensation that pulled him even closer to the surface.&nbsp; It was the same sensation he’d felt when Lei had traced her finger along her but this time he didn’t tense, feeling relaxed and enjoying the comforting sensation.&nbsp; And then, he felt her fingers start to wander over his face and lying there, he could pretend it was something it wasn’t, enjoying the touches of another person he’d not felt in a long time.&nbsp; It was good to feel the physical touch of someone that had a caring feel to it, it was easy to delude himself that she enjoyed his company, enjoyed him.<br><br>And then he felt the sensation of those same fingers playing around the stubble on his chin, and the distinctive giggle of Lei as she apparently amused herself.&nbsp; His eyes slowly opened and watched her seemingly focused on the rough hair of his chin since he’d yet to shave.&nbsp; When she didn’t react right away, he cleared his throat and tried to look stern but his lips betrayed him and curled into a pleasant smile.&nbsp; “Good morning, Lei.&nbsp; I see you have at least kept yourself amused while I slept.”&nbsp; <br><br>Reluctant to move, he slowly willed himself up and threw his feet over the side, seeing the sun streaming through the windows.&nbsp; He assumed Jenny must have come in and opened them as the bedroom warmed in the morning sun, though he was still thankful for the rug by the bed instead of cool wood.&nbsp; He took a deep breath as he looked over at Lei, remembering last night and her quick sleep.&nbsp; “I’m glad to see you can wake up so early, I thought from the way you passed out you’d be asleep all morning.&nbsp; I suppose we should get ourselves moving before Jenny decides to toss our breakfast out.”<br><br>Standing up, he reached out and grabbed a robe from his wardrobe and tied it around himself, taking a deep inhale before looking around at her.&nbsp; Carefully, he slipped off the shorts he’d worn to bed leaving him naked under the robe, which left him feeling a bit weird with Lei in the room.&nbsp; He’d not been this exposed in years with another being so close and it was a bit startling.&nbsp; “I’m going to grab a quick bath and scrub off the night, it was a bit rough as always.&nbsp; Since you got one late yesterday, up to you if you want one.&nbsp; I know it can be a nice way to start the morning.”<br><br>Leaving it up to her if she wanted to get a bath after him or go for breakfast right away, he left the bedroom and moved into the bathroom and pushed the door close but did not shut it fully.&nbsp; A part of it was absentmindedness and the other part was he was afraid if something happened while he was in there, he didn’t want to be fighting with the door to loosen after the wood swelled form the steam.&nbsp; Slipping off the robe, he hung it up on a brass hook and got out a towel, setting it near the sink so he didn’t have to travel far.&nbsp; Starting the water, he poured some oil into it to let a little bit of suds build up, testing the water before slipping in.&nbsp; It was a delicious luxury that he didn’t get often as he relaxed in the overly large tub, feeling like he could go swimming in it.&nbsp; Leaning his head back, he exhaled loudly as he tried to let the warmth relax him a little more, still so many things going on in his head.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>16-11-2013, 21:54:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei was so focused on exploring Brysen's beard, that she didn't notice he was awake until he spoke to her. That was so reckless of her! She shouldn't be doing that in the first place, what if he didn't want her to touch his face, and she got punished? He might for instance prevent her from going shopping today, and she really wanted to go. <br><br>Brysen didn't seem angry though, if anything he was amused, as if his beard wasn't anything so special, and her fascination for it was silly. Still, Lei got momentarily scarred as he began talking, and immediately jumped off him to the far side of the bed, emitting a mewl in the process. her heart was racing, and her breath quickened. Just how come could this man fool her senses like this? She should feel him waking up, he never should be able to surprise her so, that never happened before! Lei always always was able to sense somebody's presence, and she always knew when somebody was approaching. That ability of hers saved her ass many times in the past. When she was doing something she wasn't supposed to for instance. Usually she was able to stop doing it before being discovered. <br><br>She managed to calm down in a few seconds though, and crawled closer to him before he got up to bathe. She mewled again, agreeing that it would be a shame to miss breakfast. She was full after last night's dinner, but it would be nice eating something after the night. She wouldn't, however be as much of a glutton as she was during dinner. She still wanted to learn about this beard of his though, but had absolutely no idea how to ask, it was so frustrating that she wasn't supposed to talk!<br><br>Most of the times, she hated that, not being able to express what she needed, or to say what bothered her. She had to completely rely on someone, and let others decide what was best for her, without her having a say in that. Sometimes however, it was very useful. While she belonged to jago, very often she was present at meetings, the official ones as well as the officious ones. She was supposed to be some kind of an ornament in the room, or entertainment for the guests, but what Jago didn't know, what that Lei knew well about most illegal stuff he did: the contracts he signed, etc. If one day she dared talking, Jago would undoubtedly be hanged. <br><br>For now though, she was resolved to play the perfect pet, so Jago was relatively safe. Brysen got up to take a bath, and Lei was considering to follow him. It was true that she took one last night, but unlike most Nekos, Lei was fond of water. Especially when it was warm, and with lots of perfumed bubbles.&nbsp; As she was thinking about that, stretching, and wriggling on the bed, Brysen had time to fill the tub and get in the water. Finally she figured that a bath would be refreshing after all, so she took off her clothes, and crawled naked to join her master. <br><br>She announced herself with a loud mew, and hopped in the tub, before even being invited. A naked man was a most natural thing after all, and it's not like she never seen one in her life before. Plus they didn't have to have sex, a bath was just a bath. She coughed as she emerged from the water, and looked at brysen with a smile. He was still having that weird fur on his face. Right now, she was deiced, he <em>must</em> explain it to her. She swam closer, and gently brushed his chin. Next, she lifted her arm, so he could see her furred forearm. "Mew?" She emitted, looking in his eyes questioningly. It was a risky thing to do, a pet would never 'ask' anything, but it's not like she talked in human speech either. Maybe he'll just answer her, and won't think about it further. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>18-11-2013, 02:34:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Laying in the warm embrace of the water, Brysen tried to think of what to get for Lei today as he had no idea what would be proper for her.&nbsp; He was looking up at the ceiling pondering this when he heard the mew from Lei, looking up in time to see her naked form slip into the waters of the bath only to disappear under the water.&nbsp; If it had been anyone else, his body would probably have stiffened at the intimacy of another person in his bath, but it was Lei.&nbsp; After the evening yesterday, and waking with her this morning, he found himself comfortable with her knowing she seemed to accept him as is, which was a rare thing.&nbsp; <br><br>He watched her emerge from the water as he sat up a bit in the water, his chest breaking the water line to reveal a few of his small battle scars.&nbsp; A smile was on his lips watching her coughing and then smiling at him, enjoying seeing her happy.&nbsp; Perhaps because he tasted it so little, he felt she probably didn’t have a lot of happiness in her former life and it felt good that he could give her some.&nbsp; And perhaps, in doing so, he could at least get a little contentment, it seemed too much to expect happiness, in his own life.&nbsp; It would make dealing with the politics out there easier if he knew he had her to return to and help ease his tensions.<br><br>And then, suddenly, she was moving toward him in the bath, so very close with them both naked sent strange thrills down his body.&nbsp; He was glad for the warm, sudsy water as he looked at her with a puzzled expression.&nbsp; Then she reached out and touched his chin where his stubble was and then her forearm before mewing at him in an almost questioning way.&nbsp; It provoked a raised eyebrow as he lifted his own arm out of the water and reached out to run his fingers under her chin, looking into her eyes.<br><br>“It is strange, you seem much more intelligent then what little I’ve heard of nekos, Lei.&nbsp; You must be very special.&nbsp; Very bright.”&nbsp; He didn’t think anything of it as he looked into her eyes, other than to wonder how she’d maintained such with someone like Jago around.&nbsp; It was easy to imagine his kind would beat any drive or will out of a person.&nbsp; <br><br>“It’s called a beard,” he said, continuing. He reached up and brushed his fingers over the cheeks of his jaw and then his chin.&nbsp; “I also have hair on my forearms too.&nbsp; But only men of our kind get a beard.&nbsp; Well, and some ugly old women.&nbsp; But that’s not really part of the discussion.&nbsp; Anyway, most men shave it off though when I was in the military I often let it grow.&nbsp; Why is it so fascinating?&nbsp; Are you trying to tell me I’d look better with a beard?”<br><br>Grabbing a sponge, he slowly began to scrub his arms and chest as he looked at her, a curious gaze in his eyes.&nbsp; The more time they spent together the more he felt like Lei was holding something back, something that seemed to worry her.&nbsp; He could only imagine what she’d been through, and how that can effect someone, but he hoped whatever it was she’d share it with him when she was ready.&nbsp; Another master might have wanted to beat it out of her but he understood having one’s secrets, no matter their station, and would let her have it as long as she wished.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>19-11-2013, 01:58:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The answer Lei received at first for her question, was at the very least shocking to her. While she expected Brysen to tell her about that beard o his, he did something absolutely unexpected. He grabbed her chin with his fingers, and forced her to look him in the eyes. His gaze was piercing her. as if he was trying to look right into her soul. She retained her breath while he was doing that, not understanding what did he want from her. And then he said that she looked intelligent to him, more than the average Neko at least. While in normal circumstances it would be very flattering, now she would have preferred to be considered an idiot, it would be safer.<br><br>Finally however, he let go of her chin, and did explain her about the beard, and only then she dared breathing again. So it was some kind of hair that grew, and that most men removed, interesting… She looked him, trying to picture him with a beard, but somehow couldn’t. She’d have to actually see it to judge whether he looked better with a beard of without. His question was a rather funny one though, so she couldn’t help but snort. Lei did that a lot lately, snorting. Despite of his seemingly fierce demeanour Brysen was a actually someone very pleasant to be with, and even quite fun. <br><br>As he began scrubbing his arms she didn’t fail to observe the ‘fur’ he said he had on the forearms. If she expected something like she herself had, she got severely disappointed. Compared to her own beautiful, soft fur, Brysen’s were only very few hairs, more anything than something. When she was satisfied with her observation, she sighed, and dived under water again, just to get her head refreshingly wet. She figured she didn’t need a thorough scrubbing this morning, having done that last night already, so simply relaxing in the water for a few minutes was alright. <br><br>When she emerged in need of air, she decided it was enough bathing for her, not really caring whether Brysen had finished too, or not. Looking around her, she spotted the towel he wetted her the bathtub. Since there was nothing else to dry herself in eyesight, she deeded to use it, and simply reached for it while she was getting out of the tub. She mewled happily when she dried herself, and then looked at her master, who was making a weird face. Lei then made the connection between the towel she wrapped around herself, and Brysen still in the bath, figuring he set that towel for himself and now he had nothing to dry himself. She mewled again, apologetically, and tried to remember where did he take a towel from last night. After a few seconds, she spotted a cupboard, and after checking, discovered that towels were indeed stocked there. Smiling, she set a new one where he could reach it, and crawled back to the room with a contented look on her face. There, she dressed herself up, and waited for Brysen, so they could both to breakfast. <br><br>This time, the meal was entirely Jenny’s doing, and Lei almost laughed as she noticed the difference between this breakfast, and diner last night. While Brysen’s dinner was mostly practical, only food to be eaten, Jenny’s breakfast was set out so beautifully that it was almost a shame to eat it. Also, she set it at the dining room rather in the kitchen, and that room still seemed too big, to the point that it was a little awkward when the only sounds to be heard were the echoing eating sounds. <br><br>Finally, their bellies were full again, and Lei was proud of herself that his time she was able to eat relatively normally, rather than like some glutton. She didn’t know if Brysen had something else to do this morning, but she was ready to go to town. As per custom, she looked at him, and mewled questioningly, as if she wanted to ask if they could go now. She couldn’t wait to finally go to town, to buy new stuff for her, and so that everybody could see her walking alongside her new master.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>20-11-2013, 06:06:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Brysen couldn’t help but chuckle again when Lei snorted, it was such an unexpected reaction from her normal mews.&nbsp; It was strangely human of a sound.&nbsp; It was especially amusing to watch her gazing at his arms as he scrubbed them and looking sad at what she saw, not sure what she expected.&nbsp; He wished he could know what was going on in her head, what she was thinking, wishing her species hadn’t been bread to be so nonverbal.&nbsp; Still, they seemed to manage enough on their own so he supposed it would do.&nbsp; He was surprised at his own thoughts, that he was growing so attached to the girl being in his home, being around him.&nbsp; After all the years of being independent, it was nice to have someone there.&nbsp; <br><br>Watching her dip herself in the water, he felt a bit of disappointment and relief when she got out of the tub.&nbsp; He hated to admit it to himself even but between the warm water and her joyful presence, he’d found himself growing excited.&nbsp; It was a blessing she hadn’t discovered the fact when she touched his chin, only imagining what she would think of him then, lumping him in with the rest of her owners that had used her.&nbsp; Still, he didn’t exactly avert his eyes when she was walking naked out of the tub, finding a strange fascination with her form.&nbsp; He’d admired women before but there was a strange feline grace to all of her feminine curves, and he found himself wanting to explore them.<br><br>It took a moment before it sunk in that she’d wrapped herself in the towel he’d put aside, raising an eyebrow as he looked at her.&nbsp; Watching the things play over her face as she realized what she’d done was amusing, and he found himself smiling again.&nbsp; Then she grabbed another towel for him and looked rather smug as she smiled at him, leaving him alone.&nbsp; Leaning back in the tub, he was not sure how well these arraignments were going to work as he found himself growing too comfortable and too appreciative of Lei.&nbsp; It made his heart ache a little knowing he would not cause her pain but knowing he was finding himself wanting to know her fully, to find solace in each other.<br><br>Emerging from the tub, he quickly dried off and found the bedroom unoccupied as he went about putting on one of his uniforms.&nbsp; Searching through his limited wardrobe, he threw on a grey undershirt with loose sleeves and a laced collar.&nbsp; He pulled on a pair of white trousers before sliding a matching jacket over it, buttoning it up along the left side of his chest.&nbsp; His tanned skin practically shined golden against the bright white of the uniform.&nbsp; A pair of black leather boots with matching belt finished off the outfit.&nbsp; He bucked on his revolver and saber so they hung at his hips, running a brush through his hair before heading out to the kitchen.<br><br>Stepping into the dining room, he had to laugh and shake his head seeing Jenny had set out the meal in this overly large room.&nbsp; He’d mentioned to her that it was ok if she just wanted to keep everything in the kitchen but he could see in her eyes she didn’t think it was proper, so he’d not insisted. Pulling out a seat, he found himself starving not having eaten much with all the stress of the day, and his restless sleep hadn’t helped.&nbsp; Grabbing a fork, he dug into the food, shoveling it in his mouth as he looked over at Lei.&nbsp; He rubbed the stubble on his chin to show her he’d not shaved, not bothering to stop eating as he did.&nbsp; Sipping on his drink, he had to admit he was glad for the servant given with his position, he couldn’t cook worth a damn beyond what had to be done when out in the trenches, but Jenny made it an art.<br><br>Wiping his mouth, he looked over at Lei as he mewed at him, smiling slightly.&nbsp; “We’ll be going shortly,” he said, nodding.&nbsp; Rising from the chair, he moved to the kitchen door to pay his compliments to Jenny for a wonderful breakfast.&nbsp; He knew it wasn’t necessary but he found it hard not to want to appreciate those who helped him, even if they served him.&nbsp; Walking back, he stepped out of the dining room and paused in the pain room, slowly reaching down and plucking up the leash that had come with Lei.&nbsp; “I suppose proper etiquette requires me to have you on a leash.&nbsp; Though we really need to look for a better one along with a new collar for you.”&nbsp; Moving up next to Lei, he carefully attached the leash to the collar, taking the other end in his left hand.<br><br>With her in tow, he moved out the front double doors of the house and slowly walked over towards the carriage house where Aislin had already hooked up the horses to the small carriage.&nbsp; She jumped on top as Brysen waived her off from holding the door, grabbing it himself as he waited for Lei to get in.&nbsp; He assisted her up into the cabin before slipping in himself, the driver quickly taking off as he shut the door.&nbsp; “So, a new collar and leash, and some new clothes.&nbsp; Something more… appropriate and fitting then our borrowed lot.&nbsp; I don’t think I’m forgetting anything else.&nbsp; I’m told the city’s bazaar near the airship grounds are some of the finest in the kingdom.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>21-11-2013, 00:31:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei noticed that Brysen was once again dressed in a uniform. It was a different one than last night though, she wondered if what did it mean. She was used to seeing soldiers around the town, but they were always dressed in the same clothes. Maybe it was because Brysen was so highly ranked? She didn’t know exactly who he was in the army, nor why has be been affected here, but she figured they wouldn’t give a huge villa to a simple private, or even to a major.&nbsp; <br><br>She found him really handsome in his new uniform. Granted, she found most men uniforms rather handsome, but Brysen was the first one she had to chance to look at closely with enough time to examine the details. She particularly liked how his tanned skin contrasted with the light colour of the uniform. It was so different than her own. Brysen must have spent a whole lot of time outside, in the sun, while she was mostly confined to the insides lastly, which made her skin, already rather pale by nature, almost white like her hair. It was a genetic wonder how the rest of her fur could be so pitch black. <br><br>In the dining room, she once again ate like half like a human, kneeling on the chair, and letting Brysen cut the food for her. She didn’t use a fork either, eating everything with her hands. That of course, made her fingers sticky, so she cleaned them the cat way; licking them clean with her rough tongue. Lei had to admit that while she adored Brysen’s dinner, she would prefer Jenny to cook for them in the future. Now she wasn’t exactly famished anymore, she was able to fully appreciate the taste of what she ate. Brysen couldn’t be luckier to have Jenny as a servant. <br><br>She smiled noticing Brysen briefly rubbing his chin. He must have remembered her odd fascination with it in the bath, and probably stuck to his suggestion, wanting to let a beard grow. Who knows, maybe he wold look better with one? They’ll see in a few days, and if Lei doesn’t like it, she’ll have to somehow make him understand she prefers him shaved. <br><br>She mewled happily as he said they will be soon going to the market. She was so impatient that she found it hard to stay in place, and almost bounced while kneeling on her chair. When he finally raised, she didn’t his side, and had to restrain herself from pulling his pants to hurry him. That wouldn’t be polite towards Jenny though, besides she also was grateful for the breakfast, so she smiled at her and mewled, thanking her. <br><br>The maid seemed to be surprised that he master came in person to pay his respects to her. She awkwardly bowed, her arms white from the flour she was using to bake a cake. “Oh, it was just a breakfast, master Marsaad! I am the one grateful that if was to your likening.” She said, ruffling Lei’s hair, making it even whiter than it was. “I understand you are going out now. When can I expect you for lunch?” She asked, not wanting to be late with a meal, or serving them cold food. <br><br>With a sigh Lei lifted her chin to let Brysen clip the leash to her her collar. She already got used to her relative freedom, and didn’t really like being leashed again. It was a necessity however. If the town guards spotted her unleashed in town, it wouldn’t matter that Brysen was a general, and she wasn’t doing anything but staying at her master’s side, he would be asked to leash her. That was the law, and laws were supposed to be respected, at least when everybody could see it. People like Jago breaking the law in secret were a different thing. <br><br>There was no cage in the carriage, so Lei figured she was allowed to traced on the plush, cushioned seat. Suppressing a giggle, she hopped on a seat next to Brysen. When the carriage began riding to town, she couldn’t help herself but to stick her head out of the window. It was so fun to look at the landscape this way, with the wind battling on her face! When she had enough, and her eyes were too teary, she got back inside, her hair needing to be arranged, but visibly happy. Not really knowing why she was doing that, she mewed, placed herself on Brysen’s lap, and gently kissed Brysen’s cheek, before resting her head on his chest.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>22-11-2013, 06:30:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was hard not to find Lei’s excitement amusing and a bit catching as she seemed filled with springs one he said they were going to town.&nbsp; Looking in on Jenny, he shook he head at her as insistence it was nothing, smiling as he saw Lei’s new powdery hair.&nbsp; At her question, he leaned back out and looked towards the clockwork clock that sat in the hallway like some black and brass pillar.&nbsp; “Well, I expect we shouldn’t be too long.&nbsp; I imagine we’ll be back by noon or an hour later.”&nbsp; It was one of those things that adjusting to civilian life made him realize how structured the military had been for him, he hadn’t even needed to think about the time.<br><br>Walking with the leashed Lei took some getting used too but thankfully she kept up well so he didn’t have to worry.&nbsp; Once they were in the carriage, he was surprised when she jumped up next to him on the seat, but enjoying the sense that she wanted to be there.&nbsp; A small chuckle escaped him when she stuck her head out the window, the wind whipping through her hair.&nbsp; The estate was on the outskirts of the city so they got to watch the small outskirts rise up around them with sporadic buildings, which eventually gave way to larger buildings before the hit the great wall that surrounded the old city.&nbsp; Following the old trade route, it would take them a little to hit the airship docks and the bazaar near them.<br><br>Lei’s next actions took him completely by surprise when she came in and placed herself on his lap, mewing, and leaned in and kissed his cheek.&nbsp; Before he could process it, she was suddenly against his chest, the movement of the carriage making them bounce as one.&nbsp; Reaching up, he scrubbed behind her ears since she seemed to like it, enjoying how her fur felt against his fingertips.&nbsp; There was something very sensual about her soft fur, soft yet warm.&nbsp; Then, he started to pet his hand down her head and back, rearranging her ruffled fur.&nbsp; “Thank you, Lei,” he said softly.&nbsp; <br><br>A soft sigh left his lips as he relaxed with her against him, not sure why she had this effect on him.&nbsp; Soon enough, the shadow of the pillars that made up the Airship harbor fell over them, the carriage slowing.&nbsp; With a sudden jerk, the carriage veered to the right suddenly, tossing them towards the wall.&nbsp; Brysen’s arms wrapped around Lei for a moment to pull her against him as he braced his foot against the wall, keeping them from impacting on the wall.&nbsp; “Sorry sir,” came the carriage driver’s words.&nbsp; “Damn delivery people don’t care about anyone.”&nbsp; A few moments later they pulled up in front of the bazaar which consisted of both inside and outside stalls.<br><br>Before the driver could get down, Brysen was opening the door and stepping out, surveying the scene before him.&nbsp; He held the door out and reached his hand back to help Lei from the carriage as well as to take the leash.&nbsp; “First things first, let’s see about getting you a new collar and then we can worry about getting some clothes for you.”&nbsp; Before them stretched out and alley of stalls on either side which led into a maze of indoor shops that seemed to spiral away.&nbsp; People in all kinds of dress and collar moved around the stalls, a frenzy of moment and activity.&nbsp; “Stay close, Lei.&nbsp; I’d hate to lose you in here.”&nbsp; He smiled at her and reached over and brushed the back of his knuckles over her cheek before returning his attention forward.<br><br>Moving through the crowd with purpose, he made his way along, judging the few stalls that held any leather worker or cloths as they went.&nbsp; It was when he finally got to a stall farther in that he was given pause, stopping to reach out and touch the leather offered.&nbsp; They were like bits of art.&nbsp; One he picked up was delicate leather woven around the edges with a filigree of lace and leather making up the center of it.&nbsp; Unlike the hunk of leather around her throat, this was feminine yet strong, and he found himself thinking it would be perfect for Lei.&nbsp; If he was going to wear a symbol of being owned by him, he wanted it to be something that was as beautiful as she was.&nbsp; “I think this will be good,” he said, showing it to Lei.<br><br>He spoke with the shop owner who looked things over and double checked his mental measurements with a look at the neko before taking Brysen’s name so he could make the ownership plate.&nbsp; As they waited for it to be finished, he looked around the throngs and noticed the Merikesh man standing near a booth not too far off.&nbsp; He was surprised as he’d not seen any warriors since the war, easily discernable by their body and face tattoos.&nbsp; But studying him from afar, he felt that something was wrong about the man, something about the angles of his face and his eyes.&nbsp; He’d seen enough of them up close to see past the tattoos to the face beneath, and this one left a weird feeling in his gut.&nbsp; Out of the corner of his eye, he saw another one a few shows down the other way from them.&nbsp; “That is strange,” he muttered to himself, hoping the collar would be done soon.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>23-11-2013, 00:24:12</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei knew Brysen wasn’t expecting her kiss and was quite proud of herself that she managed to take him by surprise. Plus, she’s been quickly rewarded by having her ears scratched. She answered his ‘thank you’ with a mew, and a continuous purring as he petted her. Even the bumpy road didn’t seem so bad when he was here with her. It was so different than the last time, when she was traveling in a cage, and hit her head at every bump. Suddenly, the carriage stopped, and if it wasn’t for Brysen, Lei would have flown to the opposite wall of the carriage, badly hitting herself. He was here to protect her however, and in the end there was more fear than anything else, and she only had time to shriek before everything was fine again. <br><br>Brysen was even enough of a gentleman to help her get out of the carriage. She would have managed by herself, but the steps were really quite high, so the help was much appreciated. She eagerly agreed to stay close to him when he asked her to. The market seemed huge to her, besides it wasn’t a place she knew well, and she to would hate to get lost here. It all really looked like a very colourful maze. Each stand looked so bright ad inviting, she had no idea what were these merchants selling, but she knew she would love to explore it all in details. Her master seemed to have one determined goal though, and they were never stopping for window shopping, which was a big shame in her opinion. If she wasn’t leashed, she would surely stay behind him, mesmerised by one vitrine or another, but the constant tug of the leash reminded her that she had no choice but to follow Brysen. Maybe when they were done buying what they had to, they could stop and look at what the other merchants were offering?<br><br>Brysen was walking with a quick, military pace, and Lei found it a bit hard to follow him, especially in the crowd. This had one advantage though, they arrived to the leather merchant very quickly. The man was an artist craftsman, obviously loving what he was doing. The collars he was selling ranged from simple leather straps to gorgeous things looking almost like necklaces. What he chose for her, was a really beautiful collar. It was clearly well done, solid, and the lace gave the crude leather a soft feminine touch. Yes, she knew it would fit her perfectly, and happily mewed as he showed it to her. <br><br>The collar had to be adjusted for her neck, and the new name plate had to be engraved, so they had to wait a bit in the shop. Lei used this time to look around the shop, as far the leash allowed her to go. That made her think that a new leash would be in order too, so she tried to direct Brysen’s attention to a table where there were various leashed displayed, and looked at him meaningfully. What she was being lead by now, was a simple piece of rope attached to a clip, so it could be attached to the ring at her collar. First, it was an old thing, and second, it was easy to cut it with a knife, and if somebody wanted to steal her in the crowd, he could do so easily.<br><br>Brysen however, seemed to be preoccupied with something else. He muttered something to himself that Lei didn’t understand, and was looking at something, or someone in the crowd. Curious, Lei approached him, and mewed questioningly. She wasn’t sure, but there was a weird man standing there, where Brysen seemed to look. He wasn’t like the other people. He was big, overly muscled, had strange clothes and his face… His face was literally covered with tattoos, making him look fiercer than he already was. There was something wrong with this man, even she knew it, instinctively. She shivered, and hid behind Brysen’s legs, not wanting to see this demon-man anymore. <br><br>Fortunately, her collar was ready soon, and the shopkeeper came to place it around her throat himself to see if it wasn’t too tight or too loose, like the old collar she was wearing before. “I see everything is fine.” He said, with a satisfied smile of a man who knew did his job well. “Good choice sir, it looks really good on her! But then, she’s a pretty one, so almost anything would look nice on her. Do you need anything else? I have a large selection of leashes here.” He said, showing him the table Lei was looking at before. “I also have other… Toys if I may say so. Some for fun, others for discipline…” He said, winking at Brysen as he motioned to another part of the shop where he kept what could be qualified only of dungeon gear. “I take it she’s new, so you’ll probably have to train her for your standards, sir.” He said, looking at her. <br><br>Lei was more than enough familiar with stuff like this, and as soon as&nbsp; she realised what the shopkeeper was talking about, she hissed at him, menacingly baring her teeth. The change in her was radical. One moment she was a docile Neko at her master’s side, the other she was a fierce feline ready to defend herself. She swore that if she gets hit again, she would fight back, even if the disciplinarian was Brysen. Something told her though, that her master wasn’t like this. He would never whip her, or let anything bad happen to her. “See? Classical bad attitude. She doesn’t even know what we’re talking about, and suddenly gets aggressive. But it’s nothing a few lashes wouldn’t correct.” The man said with a shrug. Obviously, he wasn’t a stranger to the ways pets were usually trained there. “Anyways, it will be one gold piece for the collar. Are you buying something else? I would strongly recommend a leash. Forgive me for saying that sir, but that rope looks like it would break any moment, and I bet you wouldn’t want this pretty one running away from you!”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>27-11-2013, 03:29:47</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Pulling his attention from the crowd, Brysen looked over the table where Lei looked at the other wares set out.&nbsp; She had wanted to look before he knew but he didn’t want to dally so early in their quest.&nbsp; She could enjoy the sights on the way out once they had their wares and she could be properly attired.&nbsp; His eyes glance down to where she was looking only to look back up into her eyes, trying to tell him something but he seemed lost about what.&nbsp; Glancing back at the leash, he remembered he’d considered needing to get another leash for her to replace the rather disgusting one that had been on her, wishing to do away with anything that might remind her of her former master.&nbsp; &nbsp;Still, he wasn’t sure if the look was meant to want him to pick one out or to say she didn’t want any other, even if he knew they would need one in public.<br><br>The Merikesh still bugged him but his attention was quickly pulled away when Lei suddenly mewed, looking down at her.&nbsp; He saw her look out where he had been and pursed his lips when she hid behind his leg, afraid of the man.&nbsp; Leaning down, he petted her gently for a moment to help ease her fear.&nbsp; “It’s ok Lei, he won’t harm you.&nbsp; We are at peace with their kind.&nbsp; Though, I feel like you do.&nbsp; They set my teeth on edge.&nbsp; But, there is something strange about that one.”&nbsp; He rose again and looked out over the crowd but the man was gone, back into the teaming mass of people moving through the bazaar.<br><br>He started to move over to the table of leashes she had been at, looking over them as he did.&nbsp; His fingers reached out and tested each one, how they felt and their weight, taking a careful measurement of it all.&nbsp; Occasionally, he would look over at Lei to see what she was thinking of the one he was looking at, not willing to ask aloud as it seemed it would draw strange looks considering how others seemed to act.&nbsp; One in particular caught his eye, it was a fine, delicate chain attached to a leather handle though hit was surprisingly strong for its size.&nbsp; It was simple yet elegant and he was considering it against the others when the shopkeeper emerged from the back.<br><br>His gaze carefully followed the man as he moved to Lei and placed the collar around her throat, moving closer to them.&nbsp; He found he was strangely becoming possessive of his new pet and wasn’t sure he trusted just anyone with her.&nbsp; Still, a smile broke out over his lips seeing how nice the collar he’d picked out looked on her, it was much more feminine and beautiful then the hunk of leather she’d had, almost like a piece of jewelry.&nbsp; The glint of his name on the plate brought a strange feeling, it felt good to think of her as his but he wasn’t sure how right that was when she might not.&nbsp; His attention quickly moved to the man when he asked about leashes, nodding his head.&nbsp; &nbsp;He was about to say a leash was good when the man continued, talking about toys and training Lei.<br><br>Brysen’s demeanor darkened as the man spoke on, and it only further grew black when Lei hissed and showed her teeth.&nbsp; It surprised him not having seen this side of her but then he remembered what she had probably endured in the past. For a moment, he ignored the man and bent down to one knee by Lei and ran his hand down the back of her head.&nbsp; Leaning a little closer, he put a hand across her back and gave her a gentle squeeze.&nbsp; “It’s ok, Lei.&nbsp; I would hope you would know me better than that by now.&nbsp; You don’t have to be frightened.”<br><br>Rising from the ground, he turned cold brown eyes onto the shop keeper as he reached out and took the leash he’d been looking at before.&nbsp; He held it stretched out between two hands like some weapon as he approached the man, no sense of mirth on his face.&nbsp; “You do not know me nor Lei.&nbsp; I commanded have commanded men into battle and we treated our prisoners with more respect than you would treat another living creature in your care.&nbsp; You know what I learned in my time, you can try to solve all your issues with the lash but eventually that problem will take the lash from you and use it on you.”&nbsp; He looked hard at the man and wanted to hurt him, which was not like him, but he had insulted Lei and that bothered him.&nbsp; He may command the Army and Navy in this city but he would not abuse the position.<br><br>Reaching out, he placed a number of gold coins in the man’s hand and simply nodded.&nbsp; “Thank you for your time,” he said, turning on his heels.&nbsp; He would have nothing further to do with the man as he walked back to Lei.&nbsp; Crouching down in front of her, he reached a hand out and stroked a finger down her jaw until he was lifting her chin up, reaching under to unhook the old leash and tossing it aside.&nbsp; Then, he clipped the new one that gleamed with hints of colors that looked like silver and gold.&nbsp; Taking the leather handle in his hand, he started back out into traffic heading deeper into the shops.&nbsp; “Come on Lei, let us get you some appropriate clothing.&nbsp; And then we can look at the shops on the way out for something good to eat.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>27-11-2013, 22:46:32</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				It wasn't fear that made Lei hiss at the shopkeeper. Brysen misunderstood her, she knew he wasn't one to use a whip for training. The other man, however, was, and that's what made her so upset. Even when Brysen gently stroked her back to calm her down, she kept her ears almost flat on her head, and mewed angrily again, glaring at the merchant with her most menacing eyes. It was him who should be frightened, not her. <br><br>As unlikely as it might seem, her threatening demeanor seemed to have the desired effect. The shopkeeper took a step back, and muttered an "Easy, girl." If even her master wasn't able to instantly calm her down, it was better to back off. Especially if said master wasn't an enthusiast of corporal punishment. He would gladly give Lei a stroke or two with the whip, but he couldn't do that without her master's consent. Besides, that soldier who owned her was most probably the new chief commander of the armies here, and as such, it wasn't wise to be his enemy. <br><br>Lei managed to relax only when Brysen lifted her chin up to clip the chain leash to her new collar. She liked his choice, it was so much better than that old rope Jago was using as a leash. First, it was more solid, and as long as Brysen held the handle, they won't be parted. Secondly, it was also rather pretty, she enjoyed the way the light made it glitter at a certain angle.<br><br>One last time she glared at the man, and lifted her hand with her sharp claws well visible in front of her. It was only a feint though, in the end she used it to swipe some hair away from her face, before turning towards the exit and following Brysen, who was already tugging at the leash, urging her to go. Lei was only too happy that their visit at the leather shop came to an end, and she didn't have to see that horrible man ever again. Now, as Brysen said, they were going further, to a clothes shop. <br><br>After a few minutes of walking in the crowd, they found one that sold exclusive attires for Neko girls. Lei was the first to spot it, and she ended up leading her master inside. The atmosphere in this boutique was completely different than in the leather shop. There were much more lights, the decor was made with warmer colors, and the shopkeeper was a young woman who immediately approached them as soon as they entered. "Good morning sir!" She greeted Brysen with a smile on her face. "How can I help you? I take it you're looking for something to wear for this adorable pet here?" She asked, glancing at Lei. It was so nice to be called 'adorable' by this woman, after being considered 'stupid' by the man from before. <br><br>"I am sure we will find a few outfits that will suit your tastes, sir. " She continued, leading them further into the shop, until they reached a sofa where she motioned for Brysen to seat. There was also a plush cushion on the ground where Lei could kneel, which she gracefully did, trying not to look too giddy. "We have the best assortment in town, sir. All nobles come here to dress their Nekos up!" She said, with obvious pride in her voice. "If I am not mistaken, you must be General Marsaad? Everybody talks so much about you sir, I am honored that you chose this shop, and I do hope this will not be your last visit!" She exclaimed, nervously looking around her, as if she was waiting for something. "And people talk about this little one as well. Although from what I see, most of those stories are a fruit of a very exuberant imagination..." She commented, shaking her head. There were rumors about the 'welcome gift' Brysen received from Jago moving along among the nobles, and the woman visibly heard of them already. "She seems a very good girl to me, and a real beauty at that! How is she called if i may ask?"<br><br>A few minutes later, after the woman had time to propose something to drink to Brysen and Lei, two assistants appeared, each holding a bunch of different outfits for Lei. They must have been collecting them ever since their boss began to speak with Brysen. "Ah, there they are!" The merchant exclaimed, visibly relieved. Her shop had a reputation of being the most luxurious in town, and the clients were used only to the highest standards. "Let's see... How about this one?" She asked, after she picked an outfit and showed it to them. "I believe you will need a whole set of clothes for different occasions for her, so let's begin with something casual." She said, displaying a pair of shorts and an assorted shirt. The assistants did a really good job, and brought a whole lot of dresses, skirts, shirts, pants, alongside with a few pieces of lingerie and other outfits designed to provoke a hard on in every man who might look at them. When Brysen made his choice, and Lei approved with enthusiastic mewls, the assistants went to put back everything that was rejected, and the shopkeeper said: "Right, now I would like her to try these on, so the necessary adjustments could be made. I trust she can be unleashed for a few moments? It would make things easier for me." When Brysen agreed, she and Lei disappeared in a fitting room for a few very long moments, during which laughs a mews could be heard from inside. When Lei finally reappeared, she was dressed in a gorgeous red dress with a puffy mini skirt, elegantly finished with black lace, that matched her collar. Her hair have also been rearranged, a black ribbon holding it in a ponytail. She was a bit tired after all the fitting she had to undergo, but she was happy. It was the first time in her life she was having clothes bought especially for her, and she absolutely loved it! <br><br>When she emerged from the fitting room, she immediately crawled to Brysen, and knelt before him, resting her hands on his knees. She looked at him, and mewled, like she wanted to ask if he likes her new dress, seeking his approval. "I will need some time to arrange the other clothes. They will be ready in the evening, I can send them directly to your residence if you wish, sir. Oh, and here is for you." She said, handling him the bill for the clothes. <br><br>"Thank you, sir. I do hope to see you here again!" The shopkeeper said, handling a very full pouch of money, as they were exiting the boutique. Lei was so happy that she had to restrain here from jumping at Brysen and hugging him tightly then and there. Now they had everything that she absolutely needed, she wondered where he would take her next. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>28-11-2013, 04:38:29</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				A strange look was in Brysen’s eyes as he watched Lei show her claws and then brush her hair out of her face, seeing a new side of her.&nbsp; Anyone else in the city would probably have said she was too broken and gotten rid of her but he was pretty sure that’s what others would say of him.&nbsp; A faint smile showed on his lips as he looked back at her and was happy to see she was looking better.&nbsp; A part of him worried that she thought he’d even consider what the man had been talking about, betting her to train her.&nbsp; He knew he was still a stranger to her but it had been his hope that she could know he would never hurt her in such a way, though he could understand her distrust of humans.&nbsp; He wasn’t particularly trustful of them either.<br><br>The market was a jumble of stores and he was sure there was some order to it, he’d been told as much, but he could not see where the order lay.&nbsp; The constant looking back and forth at the stalls on either side was starting to give him whiplash.&nbsp; And suddenly, he felt Lei pulling him one way with the leash attached to her and he quickly followed.&nbsp; It would have been humorous he suppose if people saw the general of the armies and navies of the city being led by a little Neko but keeping the line taunt he just looked like he was holding an over eager pet heaving for the store.&nbsp; Looking over the cloths on display, he suddenly turned to the woman at her greeting, nodding his head.&nbsp; “Good morning,” he said, looking down at Lei.&nbsp; “Yes, she is quite adorable.&nbsp; I’ve only recently acquired her and I’m looking to outfit a decent wardrobe.”<br><br>Gripping the saber on his hip, he held it against his hip to keep it from bouncing or from catching on anything in the store.&nbsp; It was strange to be waited on in such a manner for him, the closes he came was having the few soldiers under him listen to him and salute.&nbsp; Carefully, he settled himself down onto the offered sofa and glanced down at Lei, finding it pleasant to have her so close.&nbsp; “I am he,” he said in reply to her question.&nbsp; “I imagine if your wares are as good as you say, we’ll be visiting again.”&nbsp; When she mentioned about rumors going around about Lei, an eyebrow perked up as he realized Jago and his friends were already flooding the city with their little fun.&nbsp; He had thought he’d won some social game but as far as he could see he’d only lost a pet he could never appreciate.&nbsp; “She is a very good girl and beautiful.&nbsp; Her name is Lei.”<br><br>Brysen declined a drink at her asking despite the social convention, wanting to keep his focus and attention on the matter at hand.&nbsp; His eyes drifted over to the assistants as they came out with piles of clothes, taking a deep breath to fortify himself for the coming ordeal.&nbsp; It was important to remember this was a task where they benefits would come later on when Lei was dressed nicely and happy.&nbsp; He found himself looking at piece after piece, imaging it on Lei and saying yes to a large percentage of everything they showed.&nbsp; His eyes were starting to glaze over when he realized they were showing lingerie and he was saying yes still, glancing over at Lei for a moment.&nbsp; She didn’t seem to be objecting and he saw no harm in seeing her dressed up in various ways of beautiful, even if it went no farther then admiring his pet.&nbsp; Unlike people like Jago, he didn’t have to give into his base nature if it meant going against his word.&nbsp; He’d rejected the few items that just were too hideous or ungainly for someone as elegant as Lei, still leaving him with a large pile of clothes for purchase.<br><br>Blinking, it took him a moment to realize the shop keeper had asked a question, finally letting it break through his thoughts.&nbsp; “Yes, Lei is quite good about that.”&nbsp; He moved forward on the couch and reached out, unclipping the leash to let Lei go with the woman.&nbsp; Curling the chain up, he set it next to him as he sat back, waiting for Lei and listening to the laughs and mews from the other room.&nbsp; It made him feel good that he could at least give her some happiness after all she’d probably endured.&nbsp; When she emerged back into the room, he felt his jaw go slack as he looked her over finding she looked a completely different person. It was easy to think of her as just cute before but in the dress she was absolutely sexy and his eyes reflected the fact.&nbsp; <br><br>When she came crawling to him and placed her hands on his knee, he smiled as he leaned forward, scrubbing behind her ears before stroking a hand over her cheek.&nbsp; “You look exceedingly beautiful, Lei,” he said in reply to the question in her eyes.&nbsp; He turned his attention back to the clerk at her words, nodding.&nbsp; “Please have the rest delivered to the estate.”&nbsp; He reached out and took the bill she offered, glancing at it before reaching down to pull a bag from a pouch on his belt.&nbsp; Handing her the bag, he knew it was more than enough to cover the cost for the wares and their prompt service.&nbsp; He’d never been stingy with his money as he saw no reason to hoard it away when there was use for it today.<br><br>He waived at the show keeper as they left, clipping the leash back on Lei as they moved back into the market.&nbsp; Looking around, he looked down the isle of stores before looking back at Lei.&nbsp; “Why don’t we go look for some nice cushions.&nbsp; If we have company I don’t want you to have to kneel on a rug only.&nbsp; And then perhaps we can see about some more appropriate bath oils for you.”<br><br>“The Butcher of Kallai,” came a voice from behind him soon after leaving the store.&nbsp; Turning around, he saw the Merikesh man he’d seen earlier, a savage bone axe in his hand and a maniacal smile.&nbsp; &nbsp;Again, he had the sense that there was something off about the man, his tattoos didn’t look right compared to the men he’d fought against in the war.&nbsp; He wore a brown and green outfit with patchwork of scaled armor, wild hair sticking up and falling around his face.&nbsp; “I never thought I’d see the likes of you in a bastion of civilization.&nbsp; Perhaps I should do like you did to us, kill you and make that pretty pet of yours my bitch.”<br><br>A cold mask came over Merrick as he let the leash drop from his hand before reaching over and placing it on the grip of his saber.&nbsp; Sparing a glance over to Lei, he motioned with his eyes for her to move to the side.&nbsp; “Keep low and I promise he won’t touch you.”&nbsp; His attention then turned to the warrior as the crowd around them slowly pulled away leaving them in a clearing.&nbsp; “Many terrible things happened in the name of war but we never did anything to your women.&nbsp; The war is over, there is no reason to throw your life away on foolishness that should have been put away long ago.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>29-11-2013, 01:23:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was in an excellent humor, and relatively sure of herself for the first time in many years that Lei was walking alongsine Brysen by the alleys of the market. For once in her life she could feel pretty, and proud to be who and what she was, almost as if she was a free person. Brysen was already making plans for what else could he buy for her, and Lei thought that nothing could spoil the day that began so perfectly. The idea to buy cushions was a good one. Brysen would surely have to receive visitors due to his high status in town. If one of them saw her on furniture it would be a scandal, and Brysen would be declared a lenient owner, which wouldn't do good to his authoritative image. Thus, having something she could rest on would be really nice, much better if she had to kneel on the cold marble ground. <br><br>The bath oils too would be an enjoyable thing. Last night she didn't really pay attention to what she was scrubbing herself with, nor to what was in the bathroom, but now she thought about it, everything there was very masculine. Of course, the whole house has been prepared for Brysen alone, and he was very much a male. She was nothing more than a surprise addition in this household, and a few changes should be made for her to fit in. <br><br>She was looking forward for their shopping, and found herself really surprised when Brysen suddenly stopped. At first, she didn't know what happened, but then she figured what did that man just said. <em>The Butcher of Kallai</em>... What could he mean? Butcher? Does that mean that Brysen was a murderer? That he killed so many people that it have been compared to butchery? That couldn't be true, not her master! True, he was a soldier, and she knew well how horrible the war was. <br><br>Lei didn't live here for all her life. She was born in a completely different place, and she remembered very well the day when war came to her village. Soldiers arrived all of a sudden, people were screaming and crying. Her master died then, just as many other men then. She survived though, and was one of the spoils of war. For a while, she traveled with the soldiers, but they quickly sold her, on this very market where they were now. <br><br>The man who spoke was the one that scared her so when they were in the leather shop. When she looked at him now, he seemed even scarier than from afar, his face literally covered with tattoos.&nbsp; <br><br>While at first Lei found herself staring at the man, she immediately obeyed her master as he told her to keep low. She quietly whimpered, and hid behind him, just as she did the first time she saw the Merikesh man. She didn't like it, and was scared that he and Brysen might fight. That would be horrible, just why did it have to heppen? What if Brysen got hurt? What if something worse happened, and she ended up with the Merikesh? She so wished to be able to do something to prevent the fight, but what could she do? She was just a Neko...<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>29-11-2013, 03:31:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The day had been going so well Brysen he hated to see the fear in Lei’s eyes, see the happiness fly away from her face.&nbsp; A nagging suspicious played at the back of his head at how convenient it was two soldiers that fought on the other side of the war finding their way into the bazaar he was in.&nbsp; It may have spoken of paranoia but he was beginning to get the sense that the town was much more dangerous on the inside then outside the walls.&nbsp; <br><br>The Merikesh were often considered savages among the general population because of their attire and their ways.&nbsp; But he’d fought against them and sat down with them once the war was over.&nbsp; They were an insular lot and had only joined in the war when their borders, their way of life, was threatened by men scavenging their land for resources.&nbsp; They were proud warriors but prouder family men.&nbsp; They only put on this scary front as a sign, a symbol of their importance, and made displays of aggression to chase away the evil spirits that plagued the land.&nbsp; It was an honor if they did this to you, as had happened when he visited a village to return some prisoners, because it meant they cared to see you safe from the dark spirits.&nbsp; <br><br>The Butcher of Kallai was a title they bestowed on him for his actions in the battle for the city, a fierce title for a fierce warrior was their way.&nbsp; His men had taken it up and it had passed on because they thought it meant the enemy had considered him a bloodthirsty opponent, an apparition of death.&nbsp; It had amused him when it had passed on from his men to others in the camps so he’d never bothered correcting them.&nbsp; Perhaps it was a bit of his pride, but it was better to be feared then considered soft with blood still in the air, many not liking the arraignments of peace.<br><br>“I fought many of your kind in the war,” he said, his sharp eyes looking over the man.&nbsp; Slowly, his hand slipped from the handle of his sabre as he opened his arms wide, letting his body relax into a natural stance.&nbsp; The men he’d fought had been good at improvising, on dealing with changes and adapting.&nbsp; But he was beginning to think this was no Merikesh he stood against.&nbsp; “No warrior ever would be this insulting or this bold in the land of his guest.&nbsp; You insult your family and your ancestors with your action.”&nbsp; His eyes narrowed as he watched the man’s movements carefully, seeing the tension building in certain areas that told of an impending attach.&nbsp; If he was a warrior he had little skill and no common sense.<br><br>Suddenly, the man cried at the top of his lung in no battle cry he’d ever heard on the battlefield, driving with an ugly kris blade.&nbsp; Brysen stood there as he made sure his footing was firm, considering his action.&nbsp; His original plan was thrown aside as he realized he had to worry about Lei who was right behind him.&nbsp; She was his responsibility now and he would not allow anything to happen to her.&nbsp; Soon, the man was on him and his arm shot forward as he took a bold step into the man, his left arm coming down and sweeping out as he did.&nbsp; He felt his hand connect with the man’s wrist pushing the blade aside even as his path kept him coming to the suddenly closer Brysen.&nbsp; With a quick backward pull, he slammed his forehead in a downward blow across the bridge of the man’s knows.<br><br>The man cried out as blood poured from his nostrils, staggering backwards as he clutched at it.&nbsp; “You are no Merikesh,” he Brysen spat, looking at the man.&nbsp; He watched the man scramble backward as the crimson flowed down his face and onto his chest, a shocked look still on his face, and fear in his eyes.&nbsp; Getting his feet under him, he took off into the crowd, pushing and shoving as he moved.&nbsp; A strange sensation moved over Brysen’s arm as he did, looking down to see his bicep had been grazed and blood was dribbling down his arm.<br><br>Reaching up, he quickly unbuttoned his uniform jacket and pulled it off, throwing it over his arm.&nbsp; He tore off a scrap of fabric from the arm, placing it over the cut to let it staunch the small flow of blood, the jacket ruined anyway.&nbsp; The white blossomed with red as he held it against though his gaze turned to Lei, looking a bit sad.&nbsp; “I’m sorry, Lei,” he said.&nbsp; “First day out with me and this.&nbsp; I had hoped this to be a special day.”&nbsp; It was strange but he had wanted this to be a day just for them, to get to know each other and for her to enjoy his company.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>02-12-2013, 00:28:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Everything happened so fast, that Lei barely had time to registered was was going on. The Merikesh screamed a&nbsp; bloodcurdling scream, and then he charged straight on Brysen, brandishing his strange sword. Lei never saw a blade like this. Soldiers there were usually wielding thin sabres, just like Brysen was, whereas the Merikesh's sword was big and large. Lei didn't know anything about swords, but at first look Brysen's sabre looked like it could be easily cut in two by the kris blade. <br><br>Fortunately, Brysen was a much more skilled warrior than the Merikesh, and he didn't even to unsheathe his sword. From where she was, Lei had an excellent view on the short battle, and saw well how her master defeated his opponent using only his bare hands. Besides, he did this with her in the way. She knew she should move, at least just a bit, to let him fight the savage, but her limbs refused to cooperate, and she was like frozen in place. <br><br>She remembered the war, it was almost the same. She was there, helpless, and people were fighting near her. She wished she could do something, hide, or even fight back, but she couldn't. All she did, was to stay in place like an idiot, just like now. As she stood there, she could only watch the Merikesh suddenly running away in the crowd, and her master doing a makeshift bandage on his bleeding arm. <br><br>Brysen had an apologetic look on his face when he turned towards her, as if what happened was his fault! But he was wrong, how could he know they would meet this Merikesh at the market? That man would have hurt her, or worse if he didn't save her. He was a hero, saving a pet and getting hurt in the process wasn't something masters like Jago would do. On the contrary, she could bet that Jago would have pushed her before him, and let her get injured in his place. <br><br>Lei wanted to somehow communicate him how she felt about all this, so that he could feel better, but how? She too wanted it to be a great day only for Brysen and her. She had hoped to get to know him better, and for once in her life have fun! She begun to think that she was cursed. Even when everything was going well, there was always <em>something</em>&nbsp; that just had to ruin everything. As if fate didn't allow to her be totally happy. <br><br>The best, and only thing she could do was to mewl, and kneel up, putting her hands on his legs. She looked at him, trying to tell him everything she wanted with her sight only, hoping that he would understand it, that he would know everything was fine and he didn't have to be sorry. If anything, she was the one who should apologize. If she wasn't in his way, he would have more place to fight the Merikesh, and he wouldn't get injured. <br><br>There was also his arm, of course. Lei wondered if it was hurting him, and how badly. Perhaps it would be better if he saw a doctor? From what she could see it was bleeding, the white fabric of his jacket was now stained with blood, something just had to be done. Once again she mewed, with a more alarming tone this tine, motioning towards his arm, trying to get his attention there. Lei hated the sight of blood, but forced herself to look at it, and even tugged his arm, worried for him. She figured their trip was over, but her master's well being was the most important thing for now. Maybe Brysen will have a day off once again, and they'll be able to return to the market, and finish their special day together?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>03-12-2013, 04:56:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A mutter that sounded vaguely like a curse was on his lips as he looked at the bloody scrap on his arm, shaking his head.&nbsp; He could hear the guards being called in the distance, the crowd around them in a tither.&nbsp; He just wanted one nice day that he could enjoy but it seemed the world refused to allow him this.&nbsp; Perhaps this was the gods’ punishment for all he had done in the name of war, in the name of king and country.&nbsp; Now, he had to pay for the blood and the pain, all that he had endured not enough for them.<br><br>The crowd around him was already starting to stare and point at them, making him feel conspicuous.&nbsp; Without his jacket, he felt like he looked like nothing but a common soldier, or worse a thug.&nbsp; Then, suddenly, Lei was placing her hands on his leg and mewing, looking at him as if trying to tell him something but he couldn’t understand.&nbsp; The confusion showed in his eyes as he looked at her as did a hint of the guilt he felt.&nbsp; He reached down and scrubbed her head lightly though his heart wasn’t in it, feeling like she was still scared and sad.&nbsp; It was hard to admit but he had hoped he could be a sanctuary for her but also that she’d be one for him, that they could find some peace together.&nbsp; They were not so far different in some respects.<br><br>He felt the warmth of his vital dribbling down his arm as he held the bandage tighter, stemming the flow a bit more.&nbsp; Lei’s cries of worry and her motions to his arm brought a small smile to his lips as he nodded.&nbsp; “It’s ok,” he said, looking at her.&nbsp; He leaned down to catch her eye and draw her eye away from the wound, not wanting her to dwell on the bad of what had just happened.&nbsp; “I guess I’m getting soft or sloppy of such an unskilled fighter can give me a good slash.”&nbsp; He didn’t want to bother her with his suspicious about the man that had attacked them or what it might mean.&nbsp; They had enough trouble today.<br><br>Town guards suddenly appeared pushing through the crowd and he could see two army men coming a few yards behind them.&nbsp; Someone must have mentioned his involvement to draw the soldiers here, because of his presence.&nbsp; The guards came barreling up at them, glancing between Brysen and Lei, an ugly look on their face.&nbsp; They were probably angry from having to be pulled away from the tavern to look in on them.&nbsp; “What’s going on here,” the older guard asked, looking hard at Lei.&nbsp; “Did she attack you sire.”&nbsp; He was already reaching for Lei seeing no one holding her leash.<br><br>Brysen’s hand suddenly shot out as the bloody piece of scrap fell to the floor, his hand on the wounded arm wrapping around the guards wrist bring a wince of pain.&nbsp; “Pull your hand away from my pet now, or you will pull back a bloody stump.&nbsp; This is an army matter now.&nbsp; You are dismissed.”<br><br>The man looked at him with an angry glare but he didn’t get a chance to say anything as the two soldiers arrived in black uniforms, saluting him.&nbsp; They didn’t need to see his uniform on to know who he was.&nbsp; Returning his salute, he quickly spared a glance at Lei.&nbsp; “Sir,” they asked, looking at him.&nbsp; He gave a report of the Merikesh warrior but ordered it only put on report and not to start a city wide search, he doubted they would find anything.&nbsp; The men knew better then to argue and quickly agreed and offered to take him to the local doctor right away.<br><br>“No,” he said, looking down at the cut.&nbsp; He pulled another scrap off and pressed it on the wound.&nbsp; “Get a field medic out here right away.&nbsp; I am not done and I’ll be damned if I’m going to let anyone else dictate my schedule.”&nbsp; He ripped off two more small strips of cloth and tied it so it fastened a makeshift bandage around his arm.&nbsp; The men quickly ran off as he reached down and plucked up the handle of Lei’s harness and took a firm grip in his uninjured hand.&nbsp; He waited until the soldiers were ready to leave before looking around spotting a stall that seemed filled with furniture and lovely cushions, pointing to it for them to send the medic there.<br><br>“Let us continue our expedition, Lei,” he said, slowly walking towards the shop.&nbsp; The couple running the store had watched the exchange and quickly welcomed him into the store, begging him to sit in a wide love seat.&nbsp; Asking about cushions, they quickly began to bring out a number of styles, placing them all around for Lei to try as Brysen sat there, a lingering sadness in his eyes.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>04-12-2013, 01:37:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was in moments like this that Lei cursed the position of the Nekos in the world the most. How was she supposed to comfort Brysen if she couldn't tell him how she felt? Even with all her good will, of she saw on his face was confusion about what she wanted to communicate him. And she so wished that he could be able to find peace an solace thanks to her. Somehow she knew that his life wasn't an easy one so far, even though she didn't know anything about him besides that he was a very important general, and a good person. He did so much for her in such a short time, she wished she could at least repay him by bringing some happiness in his life. <br><br>Apparently the gods seemed to have other plans for the two of them. Getting injured while trying to save her was everything but bringing him happiness. She was such a coward, why didn't she move? Why was she so stupid and stood in place instead of moving aside? Her master wasn't holding her leash then, it's not like she was attached to him! If she did so, Brysen could have fought much more efficiently, without having to worry for her, and he wouldn't have gotten wounded. Even she could notice that he was a much more skilled warrior than the Merikesh man was. This wound, it was all her fault... Brysen must know it too, otherwise his touch wouldn't be so cold, so different from the usual. <br><br>And yet, he was still being nice to her. He even tried to make her look away from his bleeding arm, something she found rather difficult to do. Once she set eyes on it,&nbsp; it seemed to absorb all her attention. In the end though, she managed to look at his face, just when he said that he was becoming a bad fighter. She shook her head then, trying to tell him that it wasn't true, that he was really good. Before he had time to answer her however, the town guards arrived, and one of them insinuated that she was the one who attacked Brysen. She was so shocked that she didn't even protest when he reached for her leash, probably thinking she was a stray. Fortunately, Brysen saved her this time too. Paradoxally, his violent reaction when the guard was about to neutralize her made her feel warm in the inside. <em>Her master cared for her...</em> Lei mewed in relief then, and crawled closed to Brysen, so he could grab her leash, and show everyone that he was her owner. <br><br>She wasn't happy about his decision not to go to the local doctor. It only she could, she would drag him there, and made sure his wound was properly sewed and patched. Unfortunately, that decision wasn't hers, and Brysen only asked for some field medic to be sent to the cushion shop. Well, on the other hand, maybe a field medic had more experiences with this type of wounds than a town doctor, who was used to treating colds and stomach aches. She couldn't know for sure though, the only medic she ever saw was the vet for her compulsory annual check ups. Doctors were for humans, not for Nekos and other animals. <br><br>Despite his obvious pain, Brysen seemed obstinate to continue their shopping trip, and was firmly leading her to the next store. Lei was relieved to see that the owners were smart enough as to propose him to seat on a couch, while she was trying the various cushions. Like before, Brysen unclipped her leash, so that she had a relative freedom of movement. Lei really had fun in this shop. She tried each and every cushion kneeling, laying, and rolling over on it. She tested how soft they were, and whether their texture was pleasant. In the end, she chose quite a lot of them, so that they could place a few in each room, maybe even make some sort of a cushion bed for her in the big living room? <br><br>As she was about to bring all the chosen items to Brysen so he could inspect them, she noticed that a man in uniform arrived, and was talking to her master. She hoped it was the field medic that Brysen sent for, and was glad to find out that she was right when she got closer to listen what they were saying. <br><br>"Sir, I have been told what happened." Said the soldier, while he was saluting. "Does the wound hurt you? I bet a few stitches will be in order, may I?" He asked, reaching to unwrap the makeshift bandages. It wasn't the first, and by far not the worse wound that the medic saw in his career, and he was working quickly and methodically. "The boys said they gave you a gift." He said with a smirk. "Is that her? She's pretty." He stated, motioning to Lei with her head. "Now I see why they told me to come to a cushion shop. I swear, it's the weirderst place where I had to patch to someone up since I enrolled in the army, it sure is different from the battlefield!" He said, laughing wholeheartedly. "There, all done, sir. I'll have to come by your residence in a few days to take them off. You shouldn't carry anything heavy and overuse your arm by then. And I trust that cutie won't scratch you either." He said, giving the usual medical advice as he collected his stuff. <br><br>Lei was observing the whole operation with her big green eyes wide open, fascinated. She was sure that if she was in Brysen's place, she would have feinted as soon as the blade touched her skin. And he was so courageous, he didn't even wince as the medic was sewing him! When he was done, she mewled to get her master's attention, and motioned to the pile of cushions she made, showing him her choice. Before he had time to say anything about that though, she hopped on his lap, and planted a&nbsp; quick kiss on his cheek, earning another laughter from the medic. "Yeah, I bet she won't be scratching you, sir. She really likes you, she's not even scared!" He said, shaking his head. "Take good care of the general for me, will you, girl?" He asked, ruffling Lei's hear. Her answer was a shy mewl, and a deep blush before she buried her face in Brysen's chest. The medic was being nice, but she wasn't sure if she liked this kind of attention from complete strangers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>06-12-2013, 03:28:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Brysen glanced over at Lei as the moved over to the shop thinking she looked slightly annoyed, but he was still learning to read her.&nbsp; He could only learn so much from her mews and her expressions, though some were still a mystery to him.&nbsp; Hopefully he’d come to know her better in the coming days so he didn’t feel so distant from her, so clumsy with how he was around her.&nbsp; As he walked, he watched her out of the corner of his eye, how she moved so lovely over the ground.&nbsp; He had never really taken in anyone as much as he was drinking in Lei, savoring every little ounce he could enjoy.&nbsp; <br><br>A small smile curled his lips when the shop owners came over to him, ignoring his state, and continuing on with their sale.&nbsp; Leaning over, he let his fingers brush along and under Lei’s chin until he found the leash, unclipping it with a small scratch under her chin before letting her go.&nbsp; The wound was starting to itch but he pushed it aside to concentrate on watching Lei as the owners brought out cushion after cushion. It was hard not to enjoy himself watching her looking happy, enjoying each cushion as the placed it down.&nbsp; A laugh rippled in his throat when she started to roll over some of the cushions, wandering if she intended to do that often.&nbsp; She was fascinating for him to watch as he sat there, so beautiful and sweet as she inspected inch one, such a contrast to everything he’d had in life up to now.&nbsp; The more he watched her the more he found himself wanting her in his life for as long as he could.<br><br>Brysen suddenly looked up as he saw the man approaching, nodding as he saw the markers on his collar proclaiming him a medic.&nbsp; He shimmed to one side of the couch so he could place his arm on the side of the couch, giving the medic a stable platform to work on.&nbsp; It wasn’t the first time he’d been patched up in strange places.&nbsp; He spared a glance at Lei seeing she was suddenly attentive to what was going on, hoping she would have concentrated on enjoying herself while he had this taken care of.<br><br>“It’s itching a bit corporal,” he said, dismissing the salute.&nbsp; It was one thing to be saluted to by the men in his squad he’d once led, they were like a family and it was a simple sign of respect.&nbsp; But getting saluted to by ever man and woman in the service while walking around was slowly annoying him, it kept him feeling unworthy of his position.&nbsp; “Other than that, not much, I’ve had wounds much worse than this.&nbsp; It will probably take a few to close it, I got sloppy and he took a little too much of me.”&nbsp; He watched the medic open his field kit and soak a cloth in some solution as he removed the makeshift bandage.&nbsp; The slash went at a slight diagonal across his forearm which the man began to wipe down with the damp cloth, the edges of his wound starting to sting from the compound.&nbsp; He looked up at the man’s question before glancing at the Neko.&nbsp; “Yes, that’s my Lei.&nbsp; She is quite pretty, isn’t she?”&nbsp; He let his eyes linger on her for a moment, smiling at the sight of her despite the pain.&nbsp; “Weirdest?&nbsp; I wish I could say so.&nbsp; We had to retreat and hold up in a brothel in Nelia where they stitched up my chest.<br><br>He watched him carefully tie the thread to the needle as he looked over and saw Lei staring wide eyed at the curved instrument in the medic’s hand.&nbsp; While he had the chance, he reached out and scratched behind her ears as he leaned a little closer.&nbsp; “It’s alright Lei, it’s not anything I’ve haven’t been through before.&nbsp; Don’t worry.”&nbsp; He wasn’t sure if it was worry or just fascination but he liked to think she had some concern for him too since taking her in, becoming her master.&nbsp; Looking up, he saw the doctor standing there holding a needle in one hand and a damp cloth in the other, a magnifier dangling from a headband.&nbsp; Turning his head, he felt the point pierce his skin again and again but he’d found it was easier to not look, there was something rather off putting watching it close.&nbsp; Instead, he focused on the various pillows all around the place, finding one nearby that was a rich red. Reaching out, he picked it up and it felt smooth and silky in his hands, a wide rectangle that glistened.&nbsp; He placed it next to him as he felt the medic tying off the stick, finally looking over as he put some salve and a fresh bandage on it, giving him the normal advice he’d heard time and time again.<br><br>“Of course, you know where the residence is,” he said with a nod.&nbsp; Looking over at Lei, he laughed lightly.&nbsp; “I’ve yet to give her a reason to scratch so hopefully I should be good.”&nbsp; Hearing Lei mew, he turned his attention back to her seeing her motion to the pillows she’d chosen, nodding his appreciation.&nbsp; His lips started to part to say something when she hopped into his lap and kissed his cheek, bringing a bright smile to his lips.&nbsp; The words of the medic brought a questioning look between them both before he scrubbed her head and she buried her own face in his shoulder.&nbsp; He hoped it was true that she liked him.&nbsp; “Thank you Corporal again.&nbsp; You’re dismissed.”&nbsp; The man saluted again and the General returned it watching him leave.&nbsp; As soon as he was out of the store, he wrapped his arms around Lei gently and hugged her against him before she hopped away again.&nbsp; He lightly kissed her forehead as he held her a moment.&nbsp; “Thank you, Lei.&nbsp; You were a good girl.”<br><br>Turning his attention to the pillow next to him, he held it up for her so she could see the large cushion.&nbsp; “I thought this might be nice for the bed.&nbsp; You seemed to sleep uncomfortably last night, perhaps your own pillow will ease your rest.”&nbsp; Smiling at her, he finally let his arms slip away from her as he reached down and picked up the leash, clipping it in place.&nbsp; Once she was secure, he reluctantly rose and called the store owners over, pointing at the red pillow and the other ones that Lei had picked out.&nbsp; He handed them enough gold to ensure a fair price and prompt delivery of the goods.&nbsp; With the leash in his hand, he lead Lei out of the shop and back into the now bustling bazaar.<br><br>Trailing along with the crowd, he spotted a store in the distance and began to clear a path for him and his pet.&nbsp; He guessed he looked a sight at this point as he moved along.&nbsp; They arrived at a shop selling bath oils and incense and all sorts of lovely smelling products.&nbsp; He waived at the owner as he picked up some of the oils and washes, smelling them before couching down so Lei could smell them.&nbsp; He went through all the ones there, taking his time, until they had both found scents they could agree on.&nbsp; Looking at the time, he suddenly started to rush things along as he paid for their purchases and heading back out of the store.&nbsp; Looking around, he glanced at Lei for a moment with a questioning gaze.&nbsp; “I think we got all the essentials for now,” he said quietly.&nbsp; As he spoke, he reached down and gently pet his hand over her head and down her back.&nbsp; “Anywhere you saw you wanted to stop at, Lei?&nbsp; If not, we should head back or we’ll have Jenny upset if we are late for lunch.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>07-12-2013, 22:39:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Brysen obviously tried to drive her attention away from the medic sewing his wound, but it was without much success at first. Lei was dead scared of needles, and was now watching the medic working with a mix of fascination, worry, and fear. She seriously thought that she must have something wrong with natural reactions. When something was scary, she should run away, or at least stop looking at it. But no, like before when Brysen was fighting with the Merikesh she was like frozen. It was as if her brain refused to work in such situations.<br><br>Usually, she began violently reacting in the last moment. Like the last time at the vet, when she was receiving a vaccine. She didn't move until the needle was a few millimeters of her skin, and then she fought, like she was fighting for her life. Nobody made it easy for her then, nobody was comforting her, telling her it was fine and such. Why should she make efforts and try to stay calm despite of what her survival instinct was telling her to do? On the contrary, the more problems she made, and the more Jago was angry, the better. In the end, her master had to hold her tightly, so that the vet could do the injection. <br><br>The doctor wasn't sewing her this time though, so there was no need to defend herself. Not that she would do that, with Brysen around she would behave like the bravest Neko in the world. Or she would try her best at least. Natural reactions are not that easy to control after all. Now, with her eyes wide open, and an uneasy look on her face, she was staring at the needle piercing Brysen's skin, trying with all her forces not to be sick. It wasn't until the end of the small operation she realized that all she was holding her breath all the time.<br><br>When everything was clean again, she dared to resume breathing, and hop on her master's lap to bring him the little comfort that she could. It was then that the medic made her feel really shy, and Lei found it hard to focus on something else than her master's warm chest for a while. <br><br>Finally, the doctor went back to his usual occupations, and Brysen showed her a pillow he found for her. It was a deep red, and silky in touch. He was right, it would be really nice to have her own pillow to sleep on. And, did he mean that she would continue sleeping with him in his bed? She thought it was exceptional, only for the first night, because he had no idea where to place her. Besides, she fell asleep so quickly last night, he must have been taken by surprise. Until now, she was persuaded that he would arrange for her to have a place to sleep where she wouldn't be bothering him. <br><br>Anyways, she had absolutely nothing against sleeping with him in the same bed, and would be last person to complain about that. Lei could bet that every pet in town would envy her for the position she had in Brysen's household. Even the most favourite ones were not allowed as much as she was. She didn't even think of taking advantage of that though. Lei wasn't a demanding person by nature, she took what was offered with gratitude, and only wished to be able to somehow repay Brysen for his kindness. <br><br>She examined the pillow he chose carefully, and after a few second mewled, agreeing with him. She just wondered what made him think that she was uncomfortable at night. She slept like a baby until the morning, although she had no idea how did she end up finishing the night laying on him rather than on her side of the bed. <br><br>Like before in the clothes shop Brysen payed for everything, and ordered the cushions to be delivered to the residence. That was pretty convenient, if he had to carry them, plus all the clothes from before, they wouldn't go far. Not to mention that he would look very funny overladen with goods, and he probably wouldn't even enter to the last shop they went, or he would have broken something. As soon as they arrived there, Lei's sensitive sense of smell was literally overwhelmed with various scents. Only after a few minutes and several sneezes, she began to be able to discern one scent among the others, and choose the ones that she liked, which were essentially sweet, fruity scents. <br><br>Brysen's last question made her snort. Of course there were places where she would like to go. Like the bookshop, or the place where they sold tools for drawing. The problem was, she wasn't even supposed to know how to read, or even handle a tool properly, not to mention use it for drawing or writing. Oh, and there were also all the restaurants and cafes. Lei always dreamed of having a hot chocolate in a cafe, like the Humans often did. But Brysen was right, Jenny was waiting for them with lunch, and it wouldn't be nice for her if they arrived late. She just shook her head and mewled, looking in the direction of a cafe. She didn't yet know how, but one day she <em>would</em> go there, and have a hot chocolate with a cake. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>09-12-2013, 03:23:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As always, Lei brought his smile out again as she investigated the shop, sneezing as they tried to find a scent they both liked.&nbsp; It was strange that just being herself could pull the amusement out of her.&nbsp; He was not use to enjoying himself in such ways, not in a long time.&nbsp; It was not lost on him that Lei was given to him as an insult, as part of some plan to either make him refuse a present or accept the responsibility for a pet that would sully his name.&nbsp; As far as he was concern, he would gladly endure any ridicule there was if people didn’t think Lei was a great pet, she made him smile and that was good enough.<br><br>Standing in the bazaar, he had to look at her when she snorted, not sure what he’d said that brought such a response.&nbsp; Looking at her, he found it hard to deal with this limited communication they had, wondering how others dealt with their pets and the wall that sat between them. Of course, most of those masters probably just took what they wanted and didn’t care whether or not their pets understood.&nbsp; If he was a colder person, perhaps it would have been easier for them but instead, they had to rely on what they had.<br><br>There was something about how she looked around the place, a far off look in her eyes, that made him suspect there was something else she wanted to do.&nbsp; She mewed and shook her head but then she looked off again and he had that feeling she wanted more.&nbsp; He reached down and scratched behind her ears again, glad to have her there and wishing he could give her whatever provoked that far off look in her eyes.&nbsp; She deserved to be happy, they both did.&nbsp; It was a strange thought as he’d not included himself in that idea before, and wondered if it was her company that made him feel that way.&nbsp; He wanted to enjoy the privileges his sacrifice had given him, the scar that had made it hard to enjoy life, and do so with his new pet.<br><br>Taking the leash in hand, he moved towards the exit of the bazaar, letting his eyes trail over the shops and then look down at Lei.&nbsp; She walked so nicely with him he hoped it made those who thought it would be an insult to have her feel a twinge of green.&nbsp; The walk to the end filled his nostrils with all the strange smells of food and spices from all over the lands.&nbsp; Every so often, the shadow of a passing airship would pass over them leaving them in a cool darkness for a few seconds before the sun was back on them.&nbsp; A slight itching could be felt from the wound on his arm as he walked, knowing it meant it was healing but it still was annoying as hell.<br><br>The carriage was waiting for them when they got out and the driver opened the door as he let Lei get in first.&nbsp; He hopped up afterwards and slipped into the bench seat, setting his head back against the back of the cabin.&nbsp; A gentle sigh left his lips as he looked up at the ceiling, feeling the driver jumping up and the carriage starting off.&nbsp; The ride home was gentler then the ride in as they made their way, the city moving past at a quick rate out the windows.&nbsp; It would be good to get home and get out of the bloody shirt and relax, knowing that at least for one more day he could push off facing his new duties fully.&nbsp; The sun was high in the sky which pointed to they were hitting noon which brought a worry that they might be late.&nbsp; He hated being late when he’d given a specific time, it spoke ill o fhim.<br><br>After a long trip, the carriage finally pulled in through the gates of his estate, coming to a stop at the front of the house.&nbsp; Once again, he got out first and turned around to help Lei out before shutting the door, giving the carriage a pound to let the driver know they were clear.&nbsp; Taking the leash, he walked with her into the house opening one of the double doors to let them into the front room.&nbsp; Pausing, he leaned down and unhooked her leash.&nbsp; “We’re back home so you don’t need this for now.&nbsp; Why don’t you go see if Jenny has the food ready and help yourself, you must be hungry.&nbsp; I’m going to change and gather myself.&nbsp; So, I’ll be along in a little bit.”<br><br>Leaving her near the living room, he headed back down the hallway and stepped into the bedroom.&nbsp; He didn’t bother shutting the door as he moved to the bed, sitting down slowly and pulling off his shirt.&nbsp; Looking down, he saw the faint scars that showed on his chest, remembering each battle.&nbsp; It was strange but none of them meant as much as the one on his arm right then, at least that one had been to defend something he truly cared for.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>09-12-2013, 23:00:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei really didn't want to go home just yet, so she walked alongside Brysen reluctantly. Even though she couldn't tell him what she wanted, the market was a completely new, and exciting place. If it was only for her, she would gladly stay there the whole day, window shopping, if she couldn't have what she really wanted. Apparently her master didn't enjoy this kind of entertainment though, since the though of doing that didn't even occur to him. Granted, he's been brave enough already to endure their rather long stay at the clothes shop, but it was his idea to go there in the first place. <br><br>While they walked, she just sighed, and then suddenly began to uncontrollably sneeze and cough, as their arrived to the section where they sold spices. She was too deep in her thoughts, and didn't notice where they were. If she didn't lower her guard, she wouldn't have breathed this deeply. Spices were fine, when there was only some added to food. Big piles of them put together smelled too strongly for her. <br><br>Fortunately, the carriage was already waiting for them, and Lei was able to breathe normally once inside. She was a bit sad when it began heading back home, but then she realized she wasn't going back to Jago's. No, her master and her were going to his residence, and that was so much better than Jago's grand manor. She just wasn't used to it yet. Usually, when she was going home from an excursion, it was to be confined to a cage, or do absolutely nothing but play idiotic games in the best case.<br><br>These times were over though, she knew Brysen would never make her stay in a cage if he could help it. She didn't even see any cage in the residence. She also knew that she will be unleashed at home, and that everything they bought at the market will arrive shortly. There was no need to be sad then, on the contrary. And yet, she couldn't help but have that unpleasant feeling deep inside of her, a feeling of something missing.<br><br>The missing thing was communication. Lei felt very badly that she was able to understand what her master was telling her, and he couldn't understand her. All he could do was to try and interpret what her mewls could mean, and of course that could never be&nbsp; perfect interpretation. He was only guessing, and despite all the best intentions, he sometimes guessed wrong. She couldn't blame him. Humans and Nekos were not meant to talk to each other. Nekos were only trained to understand simple commands, that's all. She considered talking to her master when they were riding home, but she figured that things were going too good so far to spoil them, so she didn't say anything, but stayed pensive during the trip home.<br><br>She nodded her head and smiled to Brysen after he unhooked her leash once they entered the house. She agreed with him, he needed to change and freshen up after the the battle from earlier today, and she shouldn't bother him while ha was taking care of himself. She mewled, lifted herself to kiss his cheek, and headed to the kitchen to find Jenny.<br><br>The servant was just finishing the cooking when she entered, and seemed happy to see her. "Oh hello Lei! My, what a pretty dress!" She exclaimed happily. "Lunch will be ready shortly, what a great timing! I bet you're hungry, I could give you something now, or you can wait and eat with your master, what do you prefer?" She asked, looking at Lei, who only mewed in response, meaning that she would prefer to wait for Brysen. "Mhm... I'll take it as an<em>I'll wait</em>." The maid laughed, shaking her head. "I'm sorry if you preferred to eat now, but it'll be easier for me to prepare lunch for you two at the same time." She said. Jenny was conscious that Lei wasn't supposed to understand all she told her, but she was happy that there was someone who she talk to, and that this someone would not interrupt her, for obvious reasons. <br><br>"Alright, everything is ready." She stated a few minutes later, placing everything on a large tray. "Come with me Lei, I'll set the table in the dining room. Now where's your master, huh?" She continued, asking a question, but not waiting for an answer. Nevertheless, Lei mewed, motioning to Brysen's rooms. Jenny didn't notice that though, too focused on bringing the tray to the dining room intact. "Hmmm, I wonder if your master wants you to eat at the table like you did before... That's strange, you know you're the first Neko I see not eating from a bowl on the floor? Master Marsaad must really like you, you lucky girl!" She said, ruffling her hair as she set the food tray on the table, and placed everything properly. Lei blushed at what she said, she too wondered why Brysen allowed her to sit next him on a chair, almost like a Human. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>12-12-2013, 04:18:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The ride home had given him more to think about when he really needed less, but that seemed the way of this place. He had come to this place for only one reason and it had not been to make it better, though if he could he would do his best.&nbsp; He had hoped to make inroads in gathering information on that reason but then Lei had dropped into his lap and his priorities had to change.&nbsp; It changed his plans to have to take care of someone else and perhaps it would have been easier to have refused the gift and looked foolish to the aristocrats and merchants.&nbsp; But he couldn’t send anyone back to what he’d seen in Jago’s eyes.<br><br>A hint of surprise showed in Brysen’s eyes as they widened when Lei kissed his cheek, still finding I hard to get use to her signs of affection.&nbsp; They were rare but he knew what it meant for her to be able to show such things and it warmed him deeply.&nbsp; He didn’t even have time to scratch behind her ears before she was heading off towards the kitchen.&nbsp; She looked so pretty in her new dress and she seemed so happy to have it, he was glad he’d taken the time to go with her today.<br><br>Walking back down the hall to his bed, he had taken off the bloodied shirt and tossed it to the side, it was ruined.&nbsp; After sitting on the bed, remembering the old wound, he reached over to the bedside table and opened the drawer.&nbsp; Reaching in, he pulled out a small locket that was worn and old, a tarnish having worked into the cheap silver.&nbsp; He popped open the locket and looked at the face there, staring down at it for a moment as he remembered another life.&nbsp; &nbsp;For many reasons, he’d cut ties with his family and joined the military but he’d never wanted to lose touch with all of his family, but his father hadn’t given him any choice.<br><br>Closing the locket tight, he set it back in the drawer and closed it with a slam, rising quickly from the bed.&nbsp; He stripped himself of the boots and pants before looking through his closet on what to wear.&nbsp; He did not see himself going out anymore tonight but there would be the deliveries.&nbsp; He slipped on a pair of casual trouser and riding boots along with a simple, loose white shirt that laced up at the collar.&nbsp; He left his hair out this time feeling he didn’t need to present himself as it was.<br><br>Walking back out into the main room, he glanced around before heading towards the kitchen.&nbsp; A small laugh escaped him as he found Jenny and Lei in the dining room as she set the tray for service.&nbsp; “I’d ask if she wasn’t too much trouble but I fear I’m probably more trouble than her, Jenny.&nbsp; It smells delicious once again.&nbsp; Though I’m surprised Lei here waited.”&nbsp; He looked at her for a moment wondering if it was rude to talk about her like that when she was present, but he wasn’t sure what the proper way was for many things.&nbsp; And it seemed easier when Lei could only mew and sometimes things got lost in the translation.<br><br>Moving to a seat opposite them, he pulled out a chair and sat down across from her, glancing at them both.&nbsp; “I think we did an excellent job picking out clothes though.&nbsp; I think she looks especially beautiful in her new dress, don’t you think Jenny?”&nbsp; He kept his eyes on Lei as he spoke, smiling brightly as he looked into her eyes.&nbsp; A part of him wished he could tell her how she drove away the sadness inside of him for longer than he could ever remember but he wasn’t sure she would understand.&nbsp; From what he was learning, Nekos weren’t meant to understand things beyond simple ordered and such, though he’d seen much more from Lei.&nbsp; He just wasn’t sure how much more he could expect from her as far as understanding.&nbsp; As Jenny set out the food, he picked up his utensils and dug in savoring the bites with careful consideration of each bite, his mind wandering.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>12-12-2013, 23:25:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				While listening to Jenny's chatter, Lei also stayed aware at what happened in the other parts if the house, and in particular in Brysen's chambers. There wasn't any people in the residence besides them three and one or two young girls who were there to help Jenny, so it wasn't a difficult thing for her sharp senses. She did hear him moving around the room, and then, suddenly, there was a rather loud slam. She wondered what was he closing so violently, it wasn't like him. From what she observed, she figured that he wasn't particularly delicate, except when it came to taking care of her, but he wasn't loud and violent either. Something must have upset him, but what?<br><br>Unsurprisingly, Jenny didn't hear anything, being too busy with her work, and talking nonsense to Lei. She heard Brysen only when he entered the dining room and laughed. "Oh, welcome home, sir." She said cheerfully, glancing at him. "Of course she wasn't any trouble, not at all! She patiently listened to everything I said, if only she could understand and answer me..." She sighed, shaking her head. "Anyways, I offered to feed her when she came to the kitchen, but I also said that she could eat with you later. She didn't start mewling, or jumping on food, so I figured that either she wasn't hungry, either she really didn't mind waiting. And I hope I didn't talk too fast, and you don't mind sharing you meal with your pet, sir? Otherwise, I can still take her to the kitchen and feed her there. I have a feeling that now she really is hungry, aren't you, Lei?" She said, patting Lei's head as she heard her belly growling. <br><br>"I hope your trip to town was pleasant. And yes sir, it's a very pretty dress she's wearing now indeed! Did you buy just that, or something else as well?" The maid asked, while Brysen and Lei were beginning to eat. Lei knew very well how to use a fork and a knife, but since she had to keep her cover, she was looking for things that she could eat with her fingers. Or drink, like the soup that was smelling so invintigly from the vase. She really wanted to eat the first, so she mewled, pushing a bowl towards the vase, hoping that either Brysen or Jenny would get the hint. <br><br>As he answered Jenny, Brysen was looking her straight in the eyes. Lei couldn't help but blush while he was doing so, he didn't seem to be upset anymore at that moment, she wondered if her presence had to do something with it. If it was the case, she was only too happy that she could help, for once her existence would actually serve to something useful! With Brysen smiling, Lei realized that her mood improved too, and she didn't feel so confused like she was during their journey home anymore. <br><br>She was so lost in Brysen's sight, that she didn't even notice the soup bowl before it was right before her. She couldn't help herself anymore then, and just picked it with her hands and drank it. She really must have been famished, never before she would think that a simple shopping trip would make her so hungry! But on the other hand, it was a tormented trip, and after experiencing so many emotions, she esteemed that she had the the right to be hungry.<br><br>After she literally drained her bowl, the next choice was a tasty looking steak. The problem was that it needed to be cut, or she would get too sloppy eating it, so shemewled to get Brysen's attention, and showed him that she would like to eat it. It has been years since she eat that well, since her first master died, and she had to move to her second. Starting from then, and until today, she was only having food especially made for Nekos. <br><br>"Um... Sir?" Jenny asked, uneasily glancing at Lei. "Are you really sure she should eat that? I didn't have time to buy Neko food yet, and frankly it just came to me, but Nekos don't usually eat the same food like we do...I am afraid she might be sick, or something after she eats that... Actually I'm surprised she even likes it, most Nekos wouldn't touch such a meal... I should have thought about it before, and buy something to eat for her, but I totally forgot, I am sorry, sir!" The maid said, clearly concerned for Lei's health. Lei on the other hand, knew well that human food won't do anything bad to her. One of the side effects of the experiments her first alchemist of a master performed on her, was that she could tolerate, and appreciate what her masters used to eat.&nbsp; When Jenny expressed her concerns, she turned to look at her, and mewed to indicate that she was fine, licking her lips to emphasize the effect. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>15-12-2013, 19:56:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Its fine, Jenny,” Brysen began holding up a hand.&nbsp; He could understand the urge to talk to Lei even if she didn’t understand them, it was nice to just let it out to someone.&nbsp; And even if she didn’t comprehend, at least she patiently paid attention and gave the impression of listening.&nbsp; “I’m happy to dine with Lei.&nbsp; And you are not the only one that blathers away to her.&nbsp; Even if she doesn’t understand, I do the same thing myself.”&nbsp; He smiled lightly but it was forced still feeling the lingering sadness from the ruined day and memories of the past.&nbsp; The attack bothered him still wondering who had arraigned it as it was certainly not coincidence.<br><br>“The trip was good except for some rowdy men in the bazaar that darkened the day unfortunately.&nbsp; The dress is just the beginning, I’m afraid where it is easy not to spend money on myself I find it much harder to control myself when it comes to Lei.&nbsp; We should be getting some clothes and some fine pillows delivered today.&nbsp; I think there should be enough space in my own closet for her clothes.&nbsp; And all but one pillow goes around the living room for her.”&nbsp; A small smile was on his lips as he saw Lei pushing the bowl towards the soup and mewing.&nbsp; He reached out a hand to pour some out but Jenny was already there filling a bowl for them both, pulling his hand back to leave her to it.&nbsp; She set a bowl before her and then in front of him.<br><br>Lei at least seemed more content now which was something, happy to see her accepting things as they were.&nbsp; Taking a spoon, he slowly slurped up the soup as he watched the Neko picking up the bowl and drinking it down.&nbsp; He watched with a bemused expression on his face as she lifted the bowl to her lips and drank it down, finding strange thoughts rippling through his mind as her lips pressed against the edge of the bowl.&nbsp; Even when he felt sad inside, she could pull some joy out of him which surprised him to no end.&nbsp; It made him sensation of being broken inside less and let him enjoy just pretending to be happy inside.&nbsp; She accepted him for who he was, scars and all, and he accepted her for who she was, nothing could falter him from that stance.<br><br>Reaching over, he grabbed the glass decanter and poured himself a glass of wine, the deep reddish purple liquid sloshed in his goblet.&nbsp; Lifting it up, he took a deep breath to savor the local bouquet before taking a good sip of the liquid.&nbsp; The liquid spread warmth through his belly and trickled into his mind, easing his thoughts slowly with each sip.&nbsp; He reached over and scratched lightly at his arm where the bandage sat, finding the healing was bringing an annoying itch.&nbsp; <br><br>Looking up when he heard her mew, he saw Lei looking at him before looking at the steak set out.&nbsp; He remembered her inability to butter her roll last night and it suddenly dawned on him that she would need help.&nbsp; As he picked up his own knife and fork he looked up at Jenny as she spoke up that it might not be a good idea to feed her the steak.&nbsp; He exhaled sharply as he looked at Jenny.&nbsp; “I guess I have a lot to learn about taking care of a Neko.&nbsp; I’m not a very good master it would seem.&nbsp; It is not your responsibility so don’t feel to be sorry.”&nbsp; He was realizing just how little he knew about how to take care of Lei and be a good master for her.&nbsp; A part of him wondered if she would be better elsewhere but he was getting possessive of her he found.<br><br>Looking at Leia, he saw her expression as she meowed and licked her lips making him think she would be ok with the steak.&nbsp; They had eaten regular food last night and this morning and he’s seen no hard come to her.&nbsp; “She’s been good so far though,” he said, grabbing her steak.&nbsp; He started to cut it up into small pieces as he looked at Jenny.&nbsp; “I think we should be ok but I’ll keep an eye on her.&nbsp; And she certainly seems to be ok with it.&nbsp; I suppose that makes me not a good master taking the pet’s word but I she doesn’t seem to mind.”&nbsp; He finished cutting up the steak and slid it across the table to her smiling at her as he set it before him.<br><br>Turning his attention back to his own food, he began to cut his own up but stopped looking up at Jenny.&nbsp; “If you want feel free to eat as well.&nbsp; You’ll find I’m not one for being fastidious with one’s station.”&nbsp; Spearing a piece of meat with his fork, he plopped it in his mouth and slowly began to devour the steak bit by bit.&nbsp; “I just realized I forgot to get something to play with you, Lei.&nbsp; I didn’t even think about it.&nbsp; Perhaps next time.&nbsp; You’ll have to show me what you like.”&nbsp; He took another large draught of wine before diving into the rest of the steak and picking at the potatoes as well, enjoying the food slowly as he watched Lei eat her steak.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>16-12-2013, 01:47:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jenny looked uneasily at Brysen cutting the meat for Lei, and then was very surprised when she ate it all taking visible pleasure in it. How she loved such things! Lei would also gladly eat some vegetables and potatoes, but these were impossible to eat with her hands. That would simply be too messy, even now she had to use her rough tongue to lick her hands and fingers clean, so much for being polite and elegant, even while eating she had to look like a simple animal...<br><br>"Well... I must say I never saw a Neko enjoying a steak..." Jenny said, still suspiciously looking at Lei. "I guess she'll have some cake for dessert too, then? And maybe some hot choclate while she's at it?" She added, half jokingly, but as she heard 'cake' and 'chocolate', Lei turned her head towards the maid for a second, and mewed agreeing with her, after which she returned to her meat. "Funny, it's like she understood me." Jenny chuckled, shaking her head. "Let's hope she'll be alright after that, or we'll have to call the vet." <br><br>This time Lei didn't react so visibly at the word 'vet', but she had that unpleasant feeling inside of her for a moment. She knew she was perfectly healthy, and that she will be fine, but still, even the simple thought of that weird smelling man manipulating needles was scary. Seeing one medic a day was more than enough for her. From what she could see at the shop, it seemed to her that the medic did a good job patching Brysen up, but now as she saw her master nervously scratching his bandaged wound, she wasn't so sure of it anymore. One never knew with the medics after all, but she forced herself to thing it was only the healing process that was making it itch, rather than something worse. <br><br>Jenny was a bit disoriented with Brysen's proposition of eating with them, and didn't really know what to answer, and what to do at first. "Oh, I... Um... Thank you sir, it is very generous of you, but I already ate." She said, tentatively sitting on an empty chair next to Lei. "I... I don't think I should do that, it's improper..." She stammered. Jenny was a simple girl, a peasant's daughter. Her being a maid was already belonging into a higher class than her parents did, and here her employer, a powerful, noble born general was inviting her to sit with him at the same table and share a meal. No, it was unthinkable! <br><br>Lei wondered what Brysen meant by 'getting something to play with her'. She prayed to the gods he didn't have a ball to fetch, or something equally pointless and idiotic in mind. It's not that she didn't like games. Sure she did, like everybody else. Chess for instance, were a nice and stimulating game, or cards. She didn't look like, but she used to be pretty good at poker. Hide and seek was cool too, but she wasn't a kitten anymore, and she had trouble imaging Brysen hiding before her. <br><br>Jenny didn't let Lei a time to react at that though, and began talking before she could even move. "Sir, if I may ask,&nbsp; did something bad happen at the bazaar?" She asked with a concerned voice. Jenny didn't see him when He entered the house with Lei, before he went to change, so she didn't yet know about the wound. "You keep scratching your arm, is something wrong?" She didn't know anything, but she sure could be observant, and there was no need for an expert to notice that Brysen's arm was bothering him. <br><br>While Brysen and Jenny were chatting, and not paying attention to her, Lei decided to explore what was that red liquid that was smelling so funny in the decanter, and that Brysen seemed to enjoy. She was thirsty now, and it seemed to be the only beverage on the table. At first, she thought it was some kind of juice, it did have a red colour, and there was a fruity component in its smell. But there was also something else, something...sharp, that was irritating her nostrils. Lei never had the chance to try alcohol before, and she had absolutely no idea about it, what it was, and what effects it could have on people. She did see drunk people before, of course, but she didn't know what made them behaving so strangely. <br><br>After she finished her meat, she looked at the decanter for a few seconds, and then at Brysen's goblet, noticing that it was still half full. Surely, if she just tries it, and then puts it back, none of the humans would notice it. If it was only juice, Lei might have succeeded in her plan. Yet, there was alcohol in the cup, and as soon as the wine reached her inexperienced throat, she began coughing uncontrollably, and let go of the cup, which fell on the table, spilling the rest of the wine all over the tablecloth.<br><br>When she finally caught her breath, she realized what she just did, and she mewled apologetically a few times, now ashamed of herself. Why did she even do that? She knew her curiosity would end up not doing her good one day! Her master never allowed her to take his cup (not that she could ask for it, but still), and Jenny will have to wash the cloth because of her. She felt bad, but didn't know what she could do to repair her fault, so she just knelt there on her chair, pouting and with her head dropped down. All she knew, was that she will never drink any alcohol again if she can help it. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>24-12-2013, 01:11:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Looking between Jenny and Lei, he felt his lack of knowledge about Neko’s was leaving him out of something.&nbsp; He watched Lei eating the food with such pleasure and had to smile as he at his own, happy someone could enjoy the simple pleasures.&nbsp; The food was wonderful and perfectly done but it didn’t give him the comfort it gave her, a fact that made him sad.&nbsp; He wished he could put aside the things in his head and just be in the moment, enjoy the taste of the food and savor it on his tongue.&nbsp; It was something special he supposed that she could still do that after the life she’d lived, perhaps she could teach him such things.&nbsp; He knew it was not possible but it was a nice idea.<br><br>Brysen raised an eyebrow when Jenny mentioned about Lei understanding her, never having considered that it wasn’t normal.&nbsp; While she had lacked any good communication skills, she had shown multiple times how she had understood what he’d said, even fairly complex ideas.&nbsp; He wondered if Lei was different from others, smarter at least, and that was how she’d survived the ordeal of her life.&nbsp; If she was, he wondered if that would be good for them or not considering the distance between them.<br><br>Looking over at Jenny, Brysen paused in his dinner at her words, looking at her carefully.&nbsp; “Improper to who?&nbsp; It is only the three of us.&nbsp; Lei obviously likes you so she’s not going to object.&nbsp; I could do with some company that can allow for intelligent conversation, so I certainly won’t object.”&nbsp; He reached out and took a long sip of his wine before setting it down, smiling at his maid and cook.&nbsp; “If war has taught one anything, it is the foolishness of holding onto class ideals even when there is no one to impress it upon.&nbsp; If you would rather not, that’s fine, just now you are always welcome.&nbsp; I’m not too full of myself like so many in this city.”<br><br>Glancing over, he noticed the strange look Lei was giving him and wondered what it was for and why it looked so perturbed.&nbsp; But then, his attention was pulled away from her by Jenny’s question, smiling slightly at it.&nbsp; “It was nothing.&nbsp; I was attacked by a man dressed as a Merikesh warrior.&nbsp; Though if he was Merikesh then I’m the bloody Emperor.&nbsp; I guess I’ve gotten soft though and let myself get tagged by his blade, not the first scar I’ve gotten,” he added.&nbsp; A deep sigh left his lungs at the mention of scars, remembering the one that marred his face.&nbsp; “But I had a medic look fix it up.&nbsp; I think it scared Lei a great deal though, she couldn’t get from behind me.&nbsp; The medic will stop by in a few days to check up.&nbsp; I’m afraid I ruined a good uniform though.”<br><br>He looked down at his arm where it itched and felt the warm pain radiating from the wound, a raw, ugly feeling.&nbsp; It was little more than a flesh wound but the body didn’t like being damaged even if he’d trained himself to push the pain away.&nbsp; His lips parted to say something when he heard Lei coughing and the clink of glass bring his attention up as wine poured over the table, the cloth soaking it up so it stopped just short of dribbling into his lap.<br><br>Instinctively, he stood up and stepped back, knocking his chair back so it hit the floor with a bang.&nbsp; “Lei, what were you thinking,” he roared, his brow furrowing.&nbsp; Although he saw the wine wasn’t near him his body remembered how often his father would drunkenly spill wine over the table, ruining his clothes which only lead to his punishment.&nbsp; His chest rose and fell in anger as he glared at her from across the table, his pleasant look twisted in a mask of anger and sadness.&nbsp; He saw how she hid her head and pouted, mewing sadly, as his overreaction sunk in, memories of another life, of a boy’s life, flittering through his brain for a moment.<br><br>Swallowing hard, his face took on a more placid appearance though the sadness lingered in his eyes as he reached out and picked up the glass goblet setting it upright.&nbsp; “I’m sorry,” he said, shaking his head.&nbsp; “It was my fault for not paying attention.&nbsp; You can’t blame the pet for the master’s inattention.&nbsp; I shouldn’t have yelled.&nbsp; If you two will forgive me.”&nbsp; The muscle in his jaw jumped as he looked between the two women feeling old memories trickling through his mind.&nbsp; “Jenny, perhaps you should have Lei help you with getting this cloth soaking and taking the dishes if you need.&nbsp; If you’ll excuse me.”<br><br>Turning on his heel, he headed out of the dining room and through the hallway to the sitting room, pinching the bridge of his nose.&nbsp; For a moment, he had felt like his father a man he never wanted to become and he feared this position would make him.&nbsp; Walking around the couch he settled himself at one end near the fireplace and picked up the book he’d been reading.&nbsp; A discussion of military tactics. Crossing his leg, he set it in his lap and opened it but found his mind wouldn’t focus, instead, leaning his head back and resting it on the back of the couch.&nbsp; It felt like everything was building up inside of him and he was drowning in it, incapable of being the man he needed to be.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>24-12-2013, 17:26:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei was used to being yelled at by her former master, so she shouldn't be that scared at Brysen's reaction. Besides, he was a military man, so he was probably used to yell orders at his people, so it had to be a more or less natural reaction for him. Maybe it was one of the reasons why he was so feared and respected? He really changed for a few moments as he yelled, and Lei actually expected him to hit her, and frankly, she couldn't complain if he did just that. <br><br>A slap. That at the very least, and being confined to a cage until the morning, would be the punishment she could expected if Brysen was more like Jago. Her master however, excused himself for yelling. Lei was surprised, that she even lifted her head for a second to look at him, and see if she heard it right. Brysen's face was already different then, and he looked more sad than anything else. She wondered why was it sadness of all the feelings. Why not anger? Right, he was probably disappointed at her. So much for trying to be good... It was just like always: she was a disappointment. In moments like this, Lei really would have preferred to be like all the other pets.<br><br>She knew she wasn't however, but apparently that's how Brysen considered her. That's how he called her while talking to Jenny. Sure thing, it was only&nbsp; to the maid that he was excusing himself, not to her. She didn't deserve it, and she knew that very well. "Oh, it's nothing, sir. Really!" Jenny exclaimed. She too was startled by Brysen's outburst, but quickly regained her composure, unlike Lei. "I'll have everything clean here immediately." She added, raising from her seat, and beginning to collect the dishes. <br><br>The servant watched Brysen quit the room shaking her head and sighing. Then she approached Lei, who was still kneeling on her chair, trembling, and looking at an empty dish. "Shhh, Lei, it's fine now." She whispered, embracing her. "There was more fright than bad. I bet you got pretty scared, but now you won't touch alcohol again, I'm sure." She said, gently caressing her head, and kissing it lightly before she rose again to finish with the table. <br><br>"Hmmm, your master wants you to help me, but I don't really know how you could..." She began as she collected all the dishes and put them away on her tray. She cut her sentence in half though, as Lei began to tug on the wine soaked tablecloth and formed a ball with it, which she gave to Jenny. "Oh, right. Like this for instance. Very good Lei, thank you." She said, looking down at her with a suspicious eye. <br><br>Both girls then went to the kitchen, and Jenny put the tablecloth into a bass in full of soapy water. Lei wanted to help washing it, but she didn't know what to do without it looking 'too human', so she only kept staring at it, thinking. "It's fine Lei, really. I'll let it here for an hour, then I'll wash it. You helped me already, I'll tell your master that you were good. Why don't you go see him now?" Jenny said, smiling to her.<br><br>Lei didn't say anything, not even a mewl, but hugged Jenny instead, showing her how she appreciates her kindness, then went to look for Brysen. She could sense where he was, and was heading to the sitting room, but had mixed feelings while entering. Maybe he didn't want to see her? Maybe he would prefer it if she left him alone? Shyly, she approached him, and mewled as she knelt before him, her head down. <br><br>He had a book on his lap, but he wasn't reading it. She wondered what it was, and if it was interesting. It's been so long since she had a book in her hands herself! Maybe when her master will be busy, he'll leave her alone for some time, and she'll be able to sneak into the library without being noticed? She'll have to try that, for now though, the goal was to make Brysen forgive her unacceptable behaviour during lunch. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>26-12-2013, 22:18:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The day had been like an out of control card, weaving and bumping all over the place, leaving him feeling exhausted.&nbsp; Brysen was beginning to think his first instinct about taking in Lei was right, that she’d be better with someone else.&nbsp; She had such a delicate sensibility and the world had been harsh enough on her without him adding to it.&nbsp; But between the political maneuvering going on in the city, and possibly outright attack, and trying to resolve his own family issues, he feared it left nothing but pain for her to deal with not the strong master she deserved.&nbsp; <br><br>The mew pulled his attention down and he saw Lei kneeling at his feet, a sad smile on his lips.&nbsp; He was surprised to see her assuming she’d hide away after his outburst, realize he wasn’t a good man and not want anything to do with him.&nbsp; It made him feel good that she at least tried though he had to wonder if he’d broken what little trust he’d gathered over the day they’d spent together.&nbsp; He leaned down and scratched behind her ears and petted down between them with the flat of his palm, enjoying the little comfort she brought.&nbsp; Glancing back towards the kitchen, he returned his attention to Lei as he patted the seat next to him to come up if she wished.<br><br>“I didn’t mean to yell,” Brysen finally closing the book and placing it on the arm of the couch.&nbsp; “I… I don’t know if you understand me.&nbsp; I know everyone says you can’t’ but I… I think you can.&nbsp; I hope you can.”&nbsp; He paused as he reached up and scratched behind her ears again as his eyes grew serious as he looked at her.&nbsp; “I am just got a lot on my mind.&nbsp; You were just curious.&nbsp; It’s not like you can ask to try it, right?&nbsp; Though I suspect I won’t have to worry about you getting into the wine anytime soon.”&nbsp; A smile pulled at his lips but quickly disappeared after his joke.&nbsp; He doubted that even if she understood the words she could grasp the concepts he wanted to tell her considering all he’d learned about her kind.&nbsp; But he had nothing to lose by getting it off his chest if just to feel like he was sharing his burden.<br><br>“I know you were forced into this situation, we both were, and for that I’m sorry.&nbsp; I didn’t come here for this position or for the title of General or any of that glory.&nbsp; I would have preferred to stay a commander with my men.”&nbsp; He looked over at her and swallowed hard as if the words were hard to take back down.&nbsp; “My father any myself never got along very well.&nbsp; I was meant to go into the priesthood, to be groomed for greatness there as my older brother was to take his title.&nbsp; But then, our family coffers got low due to supporting certain groups we shouldn’t have, leaving him desperate.&nbsp; He married my youngest sister off to a merchant far from our lands for a large dowry and inroads into the merchants business.&nbsp; I never forgave him for that and when I had a chance to come here, not as some lowly soldier but as a man who she could trust and protect her, that we could find a way to forgive each other.&nbsp; To be each other’s family.”<br><br>He paused as he looked at his hands in his lap for a moment, emotion swirling in his eyes.&nbsp; Blinking back the emotion, he looked back at her again with a frown that turned the corner of his lips down.&nbsp; “And now it appears that perhaps the nobles in the city don’t particularly like me.&nbsp; First they tried to use you as an insult but now it appears that maybe they are taking more direct action.&nbsp; I don’t think that man in the bazaar was a true Merikesh, I’ve fought enough to know.”&nbsp; He sighed deeply as he leaned back into the couch.<br><br>“I don’t know, Lei,” he said, looking at her with uncertainty.&nbsp; “Perhaps I shouldn’t have accepted you. Or perhaps I should have let your line slip and given you a chance to run away.&nbsp; To find a good life.&nbsp; Somewhere you can be well taken care off and happy.”&nbsp; He sighed again and leaned his head back, shaking it slightly as he did.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>27-12-2013, 02:25:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Truth be told, Lei really wanted to hide somewhere, instead of going to face Brysen. Ever since she could remember, disobedience was always severely punished, why should it be different this time? Sometimes, if she hid well enough, they forgot about her for a while, and she sometimed managed to avoid being punished this way. <br><br>This time however, she decided that she's been enough of a coward for one day. Brysen got hurt because her wrong reaction to danger! Therefore, now she should gather all her courage to go and see her master. If she was to be punished, then so be it. She deserved it after all. <br><br>While she was wondering about the best way to communicate that she was sorry, Brysen began to excuse himself first. She never saw such a thing before, a master was never sorry, for anything! It was of the widely known, unwritten rules in this world: <em>'A master is never wrong'</em>. If things went bad, it was always somebody else's fault, usually the pet's. <br><br>Brysen even petted her, and invited her to climb on the couch next to him. Now she was confused. He was rewarding her? For what? She didn't make him offer it twice though, and and hopped on the couch. Now she knew why humans enjoyed sitting on sofas so much, it was so much more comfortable than the floor!<br><br>He petted her again, like he was happy that she was there with him. Humans were so hard to understand sometimes! Lei closed her eyes, and a faint smile appeared on her face, the caress having that pleasant effect on her. Just as she was beginning to forget about the whole world around her, Brysen began to explain himself. Lei realized that he really wasn't angry at her. He even understood why she tried his wine in the first place. That was something, he had to be one of the only humans she ever met who would give themselves the trouble to try and understand the reasons why certain things were done. <br><br>Instinctively, she grimaced, and pulled her tongue out for a few moments when he mentioned the wine. Even the simple memory was disgusting to her. Plus, maybe this way he would think she understands him? Before the lunch incident Lei was almost decided to speak to her master once they were alone, but now she wasn't sure anymore. Looks like her courage quota for one day has been spent, and that would have to wait for a while. <br><br>As he continued speaking, Brysen's tale was getting more and more intersting. Lei would never suspect that he had such a conflict with his father, and basically his whole family wasn't having good relations with each other. She felt pity for him, for his sister, even for his father. Brysen never mentioned his mother though. She wondered where was she in the story. Surely, she couldn't have practically denied her son too? To show him her support, she mewed, and tentatively placed herself on his lap, tucking her head under his chin. She wanted him to know that he wasn't alone, that she was there for him, and she would gladly listen whenever he needed to talk. <br><br>Then he recalled the fight at the bazaar. She never really saw any Merikesh man, so she couldn't tell if that one was real or not. He looked pretty convincing to her though, and if he was sent by Brysen's enemies, they had the means to perfectly disguise an excellent fighter. She couldn't know, but she suspected it must have costed a whole lot of money to hire him. <br><br>His last words felt like a punch to her. Brysen was doubting whether he did a good thing to keep her. Did he even realize what Jago would do to her should he refuse 'the welcome gift'? Her former master would get absolutely furious, Lei didn't even want to think about it! Maybe she wouldn't survive to see the next day? It wouldn't be the first time Jago killed one of his pets. <br><br>She lifted her head to look at him, tears raising to her eyes. Where else could she be happier than here with him? Run away? What an idea! As if the town guards would let her further than the bazaar limits! She'd be transported to the public pound, and they would call Brysen to come and collect her. She wasn't this stupid! Even if he 'let her line slip', as he called it, she would have stayed by his side, she belonged to him now!<br><br>Lei couldn't stand looking at him for more than several moments though, now wishing to cry more than anything else. So she buried her face in his chest, and sobbed, devastated that she wasn't good enough for him to want keeping her. She wasn't thinking about what she was doing, and a faint, very human "Noooooo..." Escaped her lips as she cried. She wanted to stay, she didn't want to be sent away!
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>28-12-2013, 02:21:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As he spoke, Brysen looked over at Lei as he went through his tale, finding her interested look curious as he did her reaction too.&nbsp; She mewed and put her hands on his lap as her head pressed under his chin, bringing a smile without wanting it.&nbsp; Her fur brushed along his neck and produced strange feelings and tingles all over his skin, bringing a loving feeling despite the sadness inside of him.&nbsp; It surprised him at how easily she could break through the walls around him and turn him around without thinking about it.&nbsp; He wondered what she could do if she actually cared and understood him.<br><br>He looked up from where his head leaned back and saw the tears in the Neko’s eyes bringing a cold feeling into his heart even as he felt a constriction around his chest.&nbsp; He’d felt confused and sad at the same time as she seemed to understand what he’d been saying but maybe she just sensed his own sadness, but something in her eyes told him it was the former.&nbsp; He hated to see that he’d created such sadness in such a sweet girl as Lei, who, despite all the pain she’d probably endured, still held a sweet gentleness about her.<br><br>Her eyes seemed to get wider and glisten more as she looked at him before burying her head into his chest and sobbing against him.&nbsp; He felt like a complete ass as he wrapped his one arm around her back while the other reached up to stroke down her head and back.&nbsp; Blinking back his own threatening tears, men didn’t cry, he gently murmured as he held her so focused on her at the moment he heard her faint words but they didn’t register in his head.&nbsp; All he could think of was that somehow he’d hurt the one thing that had been good to him since his arrival and it hurt deeply, he felt like a bad master to his beloved pet.&nbsp; His arm clutched tightly at her as if afraid to let her go while they were both hurting.<br><br>“I’m sorry, Lei,” he whispered, his voice hoarse with emotion.&nbsp; “I just want you to be happy, Lei.&nbsp; You’ve been the one good thing I’ve found in this town no matter how you were brought in my life.&nbsp; But then I come to find I don’t know anything about how to take care of you.&nbsp; I don’t want to mess up once again and find out I’ve hurt you… or worse.&nbsp; I want to be a good master to you.”&nbsp; He sighed as he felt the emotions flowing through him along with the frustration that he couldn’t do anything right with her.&nbsp; It went against everything he was used to having excelled at his military career, his men following his lead.<br><br>As he held her, the suddenly realization of what he’d heard dawned on him as he stared off into the fireplace, the wood crackling as his thoughts whirled around in his head.&nbsp; The grip of his arm around her loosened as he leaned back slightly to look down at her, a confused look on his face.&nbsp; Then, he looked around the room looking for Jenny or someone that he may have accidently heard but there was no one.&nbsp; “I… I may be going crazy Lei, all information seems to point towards that, but I swear I just heard you speak.&nbsp; And if you want to stay, if you are happy here, I don’t want you to go.&nbsp; I just don’t want to see you worse under my care, my beautiful Neko.”<br><br>To punctuate his words, he leaned forward and kissed the top of her head before pulling back away.&nbsp; He simply held her until she’d let out her tears, wanting to see her expel her sadness.&nbsp; He wanted to return the happiness she’d give him.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>28-12-2013, 16:15:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei was so confused, that it she couldn't stop sobbing, despite trying trying very hard. One moment Brysen says he doesn't want her, that she would be better with somebody else, and the other he embraces her, strokes her back, trying to calm her down. What did he want in the end? Did he want her or not? <br><br>In spite of all the emotions, Lei still appreciated the caresses. She absolutely loved his touch, and wanted them to last forever. Unfortunately, all the good moments must come to an end, and this one was no exception. All of a sudden, way too soon for her, Brysen stopped the soothing stroking, and looked at her suspiciously, before saying that he heard her speak.<br><br>Once again, Lei felt like somebody punched her. How was it possible? When exactly did that happen? She lowered her guard so much that she didn't even notice when she <em>spoke</em>! She looked at him with terror in her eyes. Now it was over. He would send her away, for sure! Who wanted a speaking pet?<br><br>At first, she just shook her head and mewled as to deny his words. But then she figured that if he heard her, then the bad was done already anyways. besides, Brysen didn't seem to think worse of her now. On the contrary, he seemed to support her, even kissing her head to show her that.<br><br>Lei took a few deep breaths, and wiped her tears with her hands. Then, she looked around her, wanting to make sure that neither Jenny, nor other servant was around, and there was only her and Brysen. She didn't need anyone else to know her secret, it was already hard enough for her to show it to her master.<br><br>"I... Am... Sorry..." She finally whispered. It's been years since she pronounced her last word, and she found it quite hard to start talking again. "I know that I am... A freak, but... Please... Don't send me away... You are... A really good... Master... It's me... I am... A failure... Nobody keeps me for long... I am never... Good enough..." She said, glancing away, not daring to look him in his face.<br><br>She was so scared now, that she wasn't even crying anymore. Brysen was the first person who heard her saying more that two or three words, since she's been taken from her very first master. Usually, it was enough for her former masters to get rid of her. But now, she figured she <em>wanted</em> Brysen to know that she can talk and understand what he says. If anybody in the whole world could accept her like this, then it was him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>31-12-2013, 03:42:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The pit in Brysen’s stomach opened up further as Lei continued to cry with no chance of stopping anytime soon.&nbsp; He hadn’t thought the idea of him getting her a better place to stay, away from the likes of Jago and even away from his stupidity would upset her so.&nbsp; It was so hard to judge sometimes considering her looks if she was content or happy, sometimes she just seemed so sad in her eyes and there was nothing he could do to remove it from them.&nbsp; And worse, he was finding he knew less and less about her kind that he feared making a tragic mistake with her and hurting her worse than others had done.<br><br>And then, after he asked her about what he’d heard, she looked up at him with complete terror which sent a shiver through his being.&nbsp; He’d faced down some true horrors on the battlefield and see the worst of humanity but he’d never seen anyone look with such utter shock and dread like Lei looked at him.&nbsp; The instinct to sooth that look and calm her filed him but he realized he didn’t know how, not now when she still cried because of his words.<br><br>A curious but disbelieving look answered Lei’s mew as if she was trying to make him believe he’d imagined it all.&nbsp; He may have felt twisted up before but he’d been much more broken in his life and his senses had remained sharp.&nbsp; He knew he’d heard words.&nbsp; Raising an eyebrow, he watched her looking around for a moment wondering if she was checking for others that would hear her or to blame for the words.&nbsp; Then, he saw something in her eyes that made him hold his breath, an intense look in his eyes.<br><br>And then she talked.&nbsp; Brysen felt his jaw slacken and his lips part as he watched her lips move, her voice a mere whisper in his ears.&nbsp; The words were slow and tentative but each word enunciated clearly.&nbsp; But beyond the speech patter, the words that left her lips sunk deep inside of his skin and into his soul as he listened, eyes glistening as he felt pain at her words.&nbsp; He wondered what had happened to her that had made her think those things about herself, turning herself into a prisoner inside of her own being.&nbsp; It saddened him but he knew he didn’t really want to know, he simply wanted to be a balm for these wounds she carried.<br><br>Once she’d finished talking, he reached a hand up and cupped her chin with his fingers as he ran a thumb over the divot between jaw and chin.&nbsp; “You have shown me that you are many things, Lei, but a failure is not one of them.&nbsp; In the army there is a saying, show me a bad soldier and I’ll show you a bad commanding officer.&nbsp; And you are sure no freak.”&nbsp; He leaned a little closer so his eyes were looking deeply into hers.&nbsp; “And you have nothing to be sorry for.&nbsp; If anyone here is not good enough for the other, it’s me.&nbsp; I feel like I’ve been failing you since you came into my chair.&nbsp; But I’m glad you think otherwise.”&nbsp; Smiling, he leaned forward and kissed her forehead tenderly as his hand brushed her hair back out of the way.<br><br>Pulling his hand into his sleeve, he reached up and wiped over her tear stained cheeks trying to dry them.&nbsp; “I’m sorry I made you cry, Lei,” he started, his voice quiet but sounding happier than before.&nbsp; “I’ve never had to care, truly care, for anyone else.&nbsp; I looked after my men but that’s nothing like taking care of you.&nbsp; And… I guess I’ve come to like your company so much in just this short time and… I just started to grow worried that I could not care for you.&nbsp; And maybe a little afraid.”&nbsp; He smiled lightly as he looked at her realizing he’d never had any connections for most of his life, once his mother passed and his sister was married off.&nbsp; Certainly none that he found himself caring so much about.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>31-12-2013, 17:04:41</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei though that Brysen was going to scold her while he lifted her chin, forcing her to look at him. He however, seemed to be relieved that he could finally communicate with her, and be sure that she indeed understands everything he tells her. As if to emphasize this, he gently kissed herforehead, and wiped off the tears from her cheeks.<br><br>"You, master?" She asked. "How can you think you have failed me? You showed me only kindness ever since you accepted to keep me. You didn't have to accept me, especially since I was supposed to be... An insult to you. But you did it anyways! Master Jago thought that I was more of an idiot than the other pets... That I didn't understand much, because I didn't obey all his orders. And he thought I would do the same with you... That I would embarrass you in public, and everybody would see that you can't even handle a simple pet like me..." She said, shaking her head. She wasn't obedient to Jago, because his orders were usually either utterly stupid, either gross, and she hated the way it made her look to all who happened to watch. <br><br>"It's me, I am not like the other Nekos, nor all other pets for that matter..." She said, sighting. Her speech was gradually becoming better as she talked, and was getting more and more confident. She was still whispering though, not wanting anybody else to accidentally hear her. "The others... They don't... They never speak. And question what their masters say, they can't. I can because... Because my first master performed many... experiences on me, when I was still a kitten, and he taught me may things after. He was a... An alchemist, and I think he wanted to prove that we, Nekos can be as smart as the humans." She said and sighed again, remembering what happened to the old alchemist. "But people didn't like what he was doing, and he got arrested. The soldiers who came for him said something about an execution..." Lei's first master treated her like a caring father, and she loved him like she was his own daughter. She always missed him, and hated the humans who decided to kill him. <br><br>"I've been sold then, but I wasn't like the other pets, and I've been sold again, and again. Since then, no master kept me for long. They were good people, but I... I just didn't fit in. And then I ended up with master Jago. He... He is a bad person... He just... Enjoys to see us suffer! Either he makes us do horrible things to each other, either he beats us!" She said, trembling at the memories of what she, and the other pets have been made to do while under Jago's 'care'. Some things were just gross and plain disgusting, others were meant to humiliate. <br><br>"I... I am sure he would have killed me if you refused to keep me, master! I am so happy that you accepted!" She exclaimed, knowing that she owes her life to Brysen. "And you really are a very good master! Jago made me suck him off the first evening, and then he... Whipped me because I refused at first..." She said, disgusted that she ended up blowing the cruel man. "Then I don't remember a single day without the lash, not until you took me with you, master."<br><br>Lei was really tired of constantly changing masters and places to live. Her cat part hated such big changes in life, and she hoped that she could stay with Brysen for good. "I just... I want to finally have a home... An a master that I can love and respect. I really want to stay with you, master! You... You are the first person who truly cares about what I think, and I hope to be a good pet for you! Why would I ever run away when I have a good place to come back to now, and a good master?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>01-01-2014, 05:02:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A smile pulled at the corner of his lips as he looked at her before finally reaching out and scratching between her ears.&nbsp; “Lei, you could never be an insult.”&nbsp; His eyes narrowed when she sighed at the mention of not being like other pets, his head nodding gently.&nbsp; “No, you surely are not like other pets.&nbsp; And you should be proud of that fact.&nbsp; It’s good to be an individual.&nbsp; It is that very reason the nobles fear me, because I am an individual and won’t play their little games.&nbsp; So, don’t ever been ashamed of that.”<br><br>He listened intently as she talked about the man who’d had her when she was young and experimented on her, made her different.&nbsp; The look in her eyes told him she missed the man, that she had been happy there, and he wondered about just how different he’d made her.&nbsp; How truly kind he’d been too her.&nbsp; As she spoke, his hand moved down to stroke her cheek lovely as he saw the sadness lingering in her, wishing he could wash it way.&nbsp; “People are afraid of change, afraid of those that threaten the way things are.&nbsp; I’m sorry you had to learn that so early on.”&nbsp; He knew the tragedies of life more than anyone having witnessed horrendous deeds done in the name of victory during the war, but he hoped he would never grow cold to such suffering.<br><br>Nodding, her words confirmed exactly what he thought of Jago and his methods, his eyes looking over her with a loving awe.&nbsp; It amazed him that she could stay defiant to a man like that and be hurt like he could only suspect what he did to those helpless in his care.&nbsp; The muscle along his jaw jumped as he felt a growing anger for this man and what he did to Lei.&nbsp; There were no words that could comfort such things but his arm pulled tighter around her, squeezing her against him for a moment.&nbsp; If Jago was behind the attack on him, or even if he wasn’t, he swore a silent oath he’d seen him suffer like those in his care, those he should be protecting and taking care of.&nbsp; <br><br>Although he knew perhaps between him and death, he shouldn’t be so thrilled the fact that she was happy he’d accepted her built a warm feeling in his gut.&nbsp; He couldn’t remember ever making anyone happy, not really, and it thrilled him that he could have done that for her.&nbsp; His finger played along her cheek and chin before cupping a cheek in the palm of his hand.&nbsp; “I promise you, Lei, I will never beat you ever.&nbsp; You need never fear such treatment again.&nbsp; I may get mad but that’s part of being human, of caring for another.&nbsp; But you never have to fear being hurt in this household.”<br><br>He swallowed at her last words feeling the warmth moving up into his chest and spreading though his limbs.&nbsp; She was happy and wanted to stay.&nbsp; She wanted him.&nbsp; It made his heart swell as his chest felt tight for a moment, not use to having to deal with such emotions.&nbsp; Somehow, she had reached inside of him and found those dark recesses he’d forgotten about after these last few years.&nbsp; “If you want to stay,” he started.&nbsp; His voice was low and deep, rumbling in his chest.&nbsp; “I would be proud to have you, to be your master.&nbsp; I promise you I will keep you safe and take care of you like a good pet should be taken care of.&nbsp; If you are mine, then I am yours.&nbsp; It should be about both of us.”<br><br>He grew quiet for a moment as his eyes wandered off to look out in front of him, his mind twirling thoughts around wildly in his head.&nbsp; Licking his lips, he leaned closer to her as he glided his hand down her cheek and behind her ear, scratching there as his fingers slid into her hair.&nbsp; “If that wasn’t clear, I would love if you would consider this your home.&nbsp; We may both make mistakes and I can’t promise things won’t be crazy, but I think we can get through.&nbsp; And I will protect you and as I said before, I will never force you to do anything, it will be your choice.”<br><br>As he said that, he leaned forward so his nose almost touched hers, the smile still on his lips. “Now, I’m going to kiss your lips.&nbsp; Lightly.&nbsp; You can chose to turn and it will be on your cheek or accept it.&nbsp; But you’ve made me feel very good knowing that you liked it here.”&nbsp; He slowly leaned into her, his lips puckering to touch her lips gently as his hand played through her hair.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>02-01-2014, 03:20:18</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"Proud? Why should I be proud of what I am?" She asked, enjoying the pleasant feeling his scratching provoked. "In your case, being an individual is a good thing. You're a human, you're a free person, people respect you... But me? I'm the only one of my kind who is like this. Other Nekos can be happy with their masters. They can enjoy doing stupid things. And I was never happy in years! I could never make friends with any pet, even them sensed I was different, and didn't like me... They would either sleep, either eat, or play, all day long. And... Honestly, master, could you stand an endless game of undoing a ball of yarn? It's fun for an hour or so, and then it get's boring... Just like everything else that we were allowed to do..." She complained shaking her head, which incidentally made it rub against Brysen's palm, inducing another pleasant feeling. <br><br>"I... Sometimes I thought that it would be better if I was never changed. Then I could be like everybody else... I could fit in..." She said, closing her eyes. "But the worst thing was that I couldn't tell anyone how I feel. Until now. Now I feel... Much better. I am glad that you listened to me, master, thank you." she said, smiling lightly. Lei suddenly felt like a huge weight has been taken off her shoulders. She wasn't alone anymore, now she has somebody to support her in a hostile world.<br><br>"But all things are changing." She commented his statement. "Nothing stays the same. Some things get old, and other things come to take their place." She said, wondering why people were so afraid of a process that was happening anyways, and that nobody had the power to stop. <br><br>"I trust you, master." She simply stated after he promised not to beat her. "I know that you are a good person. If there if one useful thing that we, Nekos, can do, I think it's that. We can sense if somebody is good or not. That man in the leather shop wasn't." She explained, hugging him as tightly as he was hugging her. She too wanted to comfort him. Something was telling her that he wasn't used to openly express his feeling to somebody, and that this whole situation was new and confusing to him. <br><br>"And I will do my best to be a good pet. I don't like it when you're mad at me. Even if I deserved it!" She snorted, thinking about the incident with the alcohol. Lei knew that future conflicts between them were inevitable. Nobody was perfect, and both of them had a will of their own. There was no way that they will agree on absolutely everything. For now though, things were beginning to get just right as they should be. <br><br>Lei held her breath for a while as he announced that he will kiss her. It was such an intimate thing, it would be like symbolically sealing their relation as master and pet. Her heart was literally racing as&nbsp; he approached his face to hers, and she suddenly felt lightheaded when their lips met. Lei wasn't sure what to do, she never really kissed anybody on the lips before, but after a few seconds, she began to kiss him back, her body knowing well what to do. <br><br>"Master, I..." She whispered after they broke the kiss. "I... Nobody ever kissed me like this before, it was... I don't know how to say it, I loved it, master!" She said, touching her lips with her fingers, as if checking if it was real. "I am so happy, master..." She purred, resting her head against his chest, feeling a sudden urge to cuddle with him. <br><br>Lei wished for this moment to last forever, but she knew it would be over soon. There were orders due to be delivered before the evening after all. "Oh, I think we are going to have some visit!" She said, already hearing the delivery carriages from afar. It was one more advantage of being a Neko, her senses were much sharper than a human's, and she knew about many things before them. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>05-01-2014, 04:19:00</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				“I have never played with yarn,” the general admitted, a small laugh in his voice.&nbsp; He could see how it would be difficult having to pretend to be like the other pets, to hide what she is, and how that would make being different hard.&nbsp; Still, he did not like the tone of her words, the idea that she would ever think of herself as a freak when she was anything but.&nbsp; His hand pulled her to look at him, his eyes more form as he looked at her.&nbsp; “That may have been the case before.&nbsp; But in this house you will be free to be as you are.&nbsp; You should be proud because you are different, better, and just because others couldn’t appreciate it doesn’t lessen that specialness.&nbsp; And now that you are mine, we’ll just have to find ways so you can enjoy your differences.”&nbsp; <br><br>“Thank you, Lei,” he responded, stroking his hand over her head.&nbsp; He shook his head when she questioned why people were afraid of change.&nbsp; “Humans can be simple animals sometimes.&nbsp; Nothing stays the same but the big changes are more frightening to them.&nbsp; Not all are so simple, but I have found that men and women grow stupid in larger numbers, an advantage often used by the military and the politicians.&nbsp; But, sometimes people surprise you as well.”<br><br>A warm feeling flooded Brysen’s body when she said she trusted him, knowing it meant more from her then it could from anyone else.&nbsp; After all that she had endured, that she could trust him filled him with hope, and something else he couldn’t give words too.&nbsp; But it opened up new emotions and feelings that tingled through is body like a raging storm, lightening striking again and again.&nbsp; “No one has ever said nicer words to me, Lei.&nbsp; Thank you.”&nbsp; He sometimes doubted he was a good person but it was nice to have some that believed it, that felt it like instinct.&nbsp; <br><br>He smiled at her promise to be a good pet and her snort at her own comment, finding he could appreciate her ways more now that he knew she understood him.&nbsp; The moment his lips touched her though, he felt lost in the sensation of them against hers, the intimacy of it.&nbsp; And then she surprised him when she started to kiss back, her lips pressing against his with equal vigor.&nbsp; He’d kissed women before but there was something so very charged about their kiss, perhaps it was her sharing her secret with him or perhaps it was because of everything that had developed between them since she’d come into his life.&nbsp; It was a kiss he would remember for a long time.<br><br>A bright smile curled his lip when she said she had loved the kiss and was happy, finding he enjoyed being able to give her happiness.&nbsp; To be able to take care of her.&nbsp; “I loved it too,” he said quietly.&nbsp; “And you make me so very happy, Lei.&nbsp; I am thrilled you are mine.”&nbsp; He stroked his hand over her head and down her back as she laid her head on his chest, feeling her purr move through him.&nbsp; It was strange to think, but he had never felt so content and relaxed as he had in that moment with her in his arms, her happiness evident.&nbsp; He could have easily spent the rest of the day just right there.<br><br>He heard her mention about having a visit, looking over at the clock and it’s swinging brass pendulum.&nbsp; “Well, hopefully it’s the deliveries.&nbsp; I expected them sooner.”&nbsp; With a deep sigh, he slowly pulled his arms from around her and slipped from the couch to stand up, stretching out his body.&nbsp; “You wait here and I’ll have them bring all the stuff in.&nbsp; I think we should have enough room in my closet for your clothes.” He smiled at her for a moment before leaning down and kissing her forehead.&nbsp; His eyes lingered on hers for a long moment before leaning back up and heading to the front double doors.&nbsp; <br><br>Outside, the large wagon pulled through the gates of his drive and slowly drew up to the front door.&nbsp; Two large men piled out and moved to the back, they first brought in arms full of clothes which made Brysen remember just how much they had bought.&nbsp; A small laugh escaped him as he realized he’d have a hard time not spoiling her.&nbsp; He led the men into the main room and down the hall to the bedroom where he had them place everything but the more intimate wear into the closet, the small stuff went into drawers built into his wardrobe.&nbsp; Retuning with the men, he led them back into the main room as they carried armfuls of cushions which he had them set on the floor around the sofa as well as on the sofa itself, taking the larger red pillow to set aside.&nbsp; Leading them to the door, he tipped them a few gold coins for their help and bade them a good day. <br><br>Walking back into the room, he looked at Lei with a large smile on his lips.&nbsp; “Well, I guess we have plenty of stuff for you now.&nbsp; Though we’ll have to look at finding ways of keeping you entertained that don’t involve a ball of yarn.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>06-01-2014, 02:08:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Yarn can be fun." She admitted. "For a short time, and when the one playing is a kitten." She added with a smirk. She remembered well&nbsp; the many times when she made an absolute mess with several balls of yarn, and how her master had to clean everything after her. He wasn't even that angry. If she recalled well he laughed at her and said she looked cute. But it was so long ago, she was a small kitten back then, and things were a whole lot different than now. "But most masters won't get that grown ups don't do the same things than the kids. For them, there is no difference, a pet is a pet."<br><br>She was surprised when he said that humans were animals. Lei never thought about them that way. She was always told that they were all but that. It was pets like her, the 'regular' cats and dogs, the Nekos, the dogboys and girls, and such who were considered animals, certainly not the humans, those were far above that! "Eh? I... I don't think I understand, master..." She said, looking at him from a different angle. "Why animals? And why simple?" She asked him with curiosity. He was right in one thing though. People were surprising, and he himself was the best example of that. <br><br>Lei was thinking about asking her master another question, but then she heard the deliveries arrive, and Brysen told her to wait for him here. She would have gladly accompanied him to see the deliverymen, but obeyed him and stayed in the sitting room. When she heard them walking to the bedroom, she couldn't help herself and peeked by the half open door. They seemed to be carrying so many things, she didn't realize just have much Brysen bought for her at the market. <br><br>She quickly placed herself back on the sofa when she heard Brysen leading the men to the sitting room. They only briefly glanced at her, probably thinking that she was being terribly spoiled with all those fancy clothes and cushions, but didn't say a word. After they left, Lei busied herself with arranging the cushions as she liked. She put a lot of them in front of the fireplace, some others around the sofa, and left those that were already on it where the men placed them. <br><br>She was admiring her work when Brysen walked back in the room, and quickly moved to hug him. "Yes, I just realized how much of everything you bought for me, master!" She said, and kissed his cheek to thank him. She smirk at his comment of entertainment not involving a ball of yarn. "Oh, well, I guess you'll have to get that as well." She said, rolling her eyes. "When people come to visit someone they often bring their pets, and they have to do <em>something</em> when the masters talk. I guess you'll receive visits too, won't you master? Master Jago often did, and he even brought me with him a few times when he went to see a friend." As far as she knew, noble people liked to socialize, and she figured that it would be the same with Brysen. Even if he and the nobles of the town were enemies, there were also simple business visits that were inevitable.<br><br>"But if I get to choose, I'd like to do something else than that idiotic game. Actually... Actually, I always liked to draw." She said, blushing as it was something stupid or out of place. "But it's been years since I last drew something, I don't know if I still can..." She added, with a bit sadder voice. Drawing was something she really missed, she remember she could do it for hours without stopping, it used to be her passion while she still belonged to her first master. <br><br>"And I also like to read... But all I read recently were newspapers, when nobody was looking." That should be a big surprise for Brysen. A whole lot of humans were illiterate, since education was an expensive luxury. Who would have thought that a <em>pet </em> could read then? It was one of the old alchemist's main experiments, to see if he can teach her to read write and count, and he was successful in that. As a result Lei ended up better educated than a considerable percentage of the population. "Do you think I could read something from your library, master?" She asked hoping that there were some nice and interesting stories there.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>17-01-2014, 03:35:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Brysen looked at her curious at her question, raising his eyebrows as he pursed his lip considering her question and how best to answer.&nbsp; He found some thoughts slipped out without thinking with her around, a fact that was mildly disconcerting as he was use to keeping a tight grip on himself.&nbsp; “People like Jago and the priest will try and tell you that we are different from animals because we have a soul.&nbsp; People who have not had to live and die by the blade, who had to survive and witness what one being can do to another.&nbsp; And in some ways we are worse than animals.&nbsp; You don’t normally see a wild cat torture another wild cat and enjoy it, revel in it.&nbsp; But I have.&nbsp; I believe it is our duty, our grace to be better than animals but I don’t believe it is something inborn, it is something you claim.”&nbsp; A coldness showed in his eyes for a moment as he turned away not wanting her to see, somethings would always be with him.&nbsp; <br><br>He was glad when the delivery people came to pull him from his darker thoughts, not wishing to be morose for Lei or himself.&nbsp; As he handled everything with the men, he realized he’d not bothered asking the staff if they needed anything.&nbsp; He’d have to double check if the house or the kitchen needed anything should they return to the market eventually.&nbsp; It also gave him a chance to digest the fact that Lei could speak and understand, that she’d understood everything he’d said since they’d met.&nbsp; Though it was silly, he’d begun to think they were connecting on a different level since she seemed to understand him more than other pets but it wasn’t the case.&nbsp; <br><br>Once the men were gone, he walked back to find ley arraigning the cushions, sitting back to enjoying watching her work.&nbsp; She seemed happier than he could remember and that made him feel good, it had been a while since he could remember making anyone happy.&nbsp; He opened his arms as she ran to him and gladly wrapped his arms around her, finding comfort in the simple action.&nbsp; His smile brightened when he kissed his cheek, finding it endearing.&nbsp; “I am the commander of all the Imperial Army and Navy forces within this city and the surrounding area, Lei.&nbsp; We will most likely getting visits from many people and having to visit others as well.&nbsp; I’m not much for such social endeavors but it is required of the station, at least for the local nobility and visiting dignitaries and officers.”<br><br>He reached up and scratched in the middle of her head and then behind her ears as he kept one arm around her.&nbsp; “So, you may have to amuse yourself with balls and yarns once in a while.&nbsp; But that is all, Lei.&nbsp; I know of Jago’s… reputation.&nbsp; And how others are in his circle.&nbsp; If anyone dares to hit you or do anything else to you, you do whatever you need to and get away so you can come and get me.”&nbsp; He reached a hand up and cupped her chin again, a smile on his lips but a serious look in his eyes.&nbsp; “You are mine, Lei, and I will not see anyone hurt you.&nbsp; I’ve been doing a little reading and by decree, no one may harm another’s pet or touch them without the owner’s permission.&nbsp; And I am very stingy when it comes to my possession.&nbsp; No one will touch you.”<br><br>A curious look was on his face when she mentioned drawing, though he never laughed or appeared to think it a silly notion.&nbsp; He simply nodded and reached up to scratch behind her hears and run his hand down her back.&nbsp; “If you did it once, your fingers remember.&nbsp; It might take some practice to get yourself back to where you were, but I’m sure you can.&nbsp; I don’t know what you preferred but I have some strips of charcoal and a few spare notebooks you can use from my days in the field.&nbsp; I often liked to just sketch during the quiet times.&nbsp; I… I didn’t save all of them when the war was over.&nbsp; And I just didn’t feel the drive to bother afterwards.&nbsp; So, remind me and I’ll get them out.&nbsp; It would be something until we can get something more suited to your taste.”&nbsp; He shrugged lightly not sure what would be best as he was far from an artist.&nbsp; He’d know a few that liked painting or pencil sketches but charcoals had always felt organic, and it was easy to hid growing up as a kid from a father who didn’t want his son drawing silly pictures.<br><br>At the mention of reading, he looked at her strangely for a moment, the surprise showing in his eyes.&nbsp; Many of the men who’d served under him had not known how to read a few words on a sign much less books or newspapers.&nbsp; He’d been raised the son of a lord and been supplied a good education, good breeding, so it was strange to find Lei had a similar level of skill.&nbsp; Nodding, he took it in stride as he took all things, filing it away as it was.&nbsp; He slid the hand down her back and reached around to take her hand in his, his fingers interlacing with hers, and started to pull her along out of the main room.&nbsp; He led her to the short hallway that was opposite the one leading to the bedroom and bathroom, coming to a door that was almost red from the polished wood.&nbsp; Turning the handle, he stepped into the library that served as his study as well, a large desk in the center with intricate carvings and rows of leather bound books behind it and some on smaller shelves near a window with a bench that looked out onto a small garden.&nbsp; <br><br>Walking past the desk, he pulled her along to come to a stop before the collection of books.&nbsp; He waved his hand over one tall bookcase.&nbsp; “These are all military histories, tactics and philosophy books.&nbsp; I’m not sure if you’ll find anything interesting here but you’re free to look.&nbsp; However…”&nbsp; He pulled her over to the shorter bookcases that flanked the window though together it was an impressive collection.&nbsp; “These books.&nbsp; Growing up, my sister loved works of fiction and she’d even read them to me.&nbsp; So, when I joined the military, everywhere I went, I would find a book dealer and buy one for her.&nbsp; Every time I could.&nbsp; I knew I couldn’t send them to her by then but… it was something I felt I needed to do.&nbsp; I’ve gathered quite the collection over the years.&nbsp; Sometimes I’ll read one or two and hear her voice in my head… then I needed to put it down.&nbsp; I know she’d hate to think these were just sitting here unloved.&nbsp; So, feel free to read all you wish.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>18-01-2014, 00:47:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You&nbsp; know, master, nobody told me who you really were... I just figured you must be someone of great importance, someone that master Jago is fearing. Then I saw you wearing a uniform, so I understood you were a soldier. And at the market the guards, and that medic were so respectful to you, and were calling you general... But I didn't know you were commanding every soldiers here! Even master Jago doesn't have so much power!" At least Lei finally knew for sure just how powerful her master were. Jago might have the support of numerous nobles from the city, but everyone wasn't following him. Besides, Brysen had the whole army, which gave him a considerable advantage.<br><br>"I will always be on my best behaviour when you have guests, master, I promise!" She said, making a silent oath to make him proud. Jago's scheme shall never succeed, even if it meant playing silly games, or doing other ridiculous things for the enjoyment of Brysen's guests. "But I always behave well, even if there is no guests, of course!" She added, chuckling. To be honest, she didn't care much about what she did before, knowing that she will end up punished anyhow, for one reason or another. Now however, she was determined to make efforts, and always do er best. Especially if her master was planning to continue on petting her and scratching her behind her ears every so often like he was doing now...<br><br>Lei felt a shiver run through her body as Brysen celled her his pet and his possession while looking her straight in the eyes. "Yes master, I will defend myself as I can, and run to find you." She promised him, hoping there won't be a necessity to do that. It was oddly exciting to be claimed as such by her master. His possessiveness reassured her, she was glad that he wouldn't be sharing her with others, which was something many masters did. Actually, in some social circles, it became some sort sort of a courtesy, to offer his pets as entertainment to guests. Lei wasn't sure how exactly would she feel when Brysen will be faced by such an offer while calling on someone. She would be jealous for sure,&nbsp; since the possessiveness was working both ways. Fortunately, there were also many civilized people, who were not cruel to their pets and&nbsp; were not decadent like others. Actually, in time, some of those might became allies with Brysen.<br><br>"Oh, you draw too, master? Would you show me your drawings one day, please?" She asked him, curious to see his works. She didn't expect that from him, he wasn't looking like someone who would have such a hobby. Appearances could be deceiving though, and she should learn that by now. "I used to sketch with charcoal, but I also liked to draw with pencils, ink and watercolors." She enumerated the various techniques she once loved to practice. While she talked about her passion, her eyes were literally glowing from excitement, she was obviously missing it greatly. <br><br>The revelation about her ability to read did surprise him, as she supposed it would. She thought he wouldn't believe her though, and ask her to prove that she could read, but all he did was to lead her to the library. Lei gasped, and involuntarily held her breath as they entered, she saw the multitude of books, and he told her that she was free to read them if she wished so. "Really, master? I can read them?" She asked, not entirely sure of what she heard. The military topics weren't too enticing for her, as he suspected, but the other shelf with the works of fiction seemed very inviting. It was as if those books were calling for her, begging her to choose them and to read them. <br><br>She approached the shelf, and looked over the titles. Some of them were familiar, she remembered well reading them a long time ago, but most were totally new to her. "Your sister, master?" She asked, turning to face him. "Do you know where she is now? Maybe you could send some of them to her as a gift?" She suggested. From what he told her before, she understood that he never saw her sister again after her wedding to the rich merchant. She couldn't know, but it seemed to her that the siblings weren't even writing to each other. On her opinion it was a shame, and he should do something about that, especially now that he had a high, respectable position in this town. She wasn't going to be insolent and tell him that though, her little suggestion was way enough already. <br><br>"I can read to you too, if you wish me to, master." She proposed. It could be a nice activity for a lazy afternoon for instance. They would get to spend some time together, and maybe they could discuss the book afterwards too? She didn't know if he would accept or not though, since he seemed to be quite fond of hearing his sister's voice in his head as he read to himself. Lei figured she must be a good person too, just like her brother, and really hoped that she was being fine wherever she was now. <br><br>"Oh, but that makes me think..." She said, with a deep sigh. "I must be very careful! No one can hear me speaking, it must remain a secret!" If Jenny overheard it, and then accidentally told it to someone, the news would spend quickly, even the lord of Irakeen might hear about it. Then there was no doubt that she would be taken from Brysen and brought to a lab to be studied, something she never wanted to happen. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>24-01-2014, 02:09:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Unlike Jago, I don’t wear my pride and station on my sleeve so I need to lord it over everyone,” he said quietly, though the venom for the man was evident.&nbsp; Knowing how terrible he’d treated Lei, he found himself despising the man more then he already disliked him, wishing to make him pay for every harm he’d inflicted on her.&nbsp; “One should command respect, not demand it.&nbsp; So, I don’t go around like some.”<br><br>“Thank you, Lei,” Brysen started, petting his hand over her hair and down her back.&nbsp; “I appreciate you trying to be your best.&nbsp; And, while I apparently know little about Nekos, I will endeavor to do my best as your Master as well.”&nbsp; He laughed at her comment about being good even when no one was around, reaching up to stroke his finger over her cheek and jawline.&nbsp; “I’m glad you will be.&nbsp; You have been a wonderful companion to me so far, Lei.&nbsp; More than I can rightfully express.&nbsp; Though, no more wine tasting, ok.”&nbsp; He reached up and patted the tip of her nose with his fingers, smiling at how adorable she looked.<br><br>He nodded at her promise to come get him if anyone tried to do anything bad to her.&nbsp; He was surprised at his own feelings of possession of Lei and overprotectiveness.&nbsp; At another time, he would have thought it distasteful to claim ownership of another being in such a way but he also knew it was the only way things could be, the only way he could have her in his life.&nbsp; So, he would claim her fully as his own, leave no doubt, and keep her well and good as a true master should.<br><br>“If I can dig them up,” Brysen replied dismissively.&nbsp; “They really weren’t much, just some sketches in the field.&nbsp; Something to do while waiting around in the trenches, waiting for something to happen.&nbsp; They are wholly unexciting.&nbsp; Rocks, flowers and the occasional people.”&nbsp; &nbsp;He felt a little self-conscious talking about it as it wasn’t something he let out all too often, often sketching away from his men.&nbsp; He listened to her talk about what she’d used in the past, nodding and smiling as he found it fascinated this new side of Lei he was discovering.&nbsp; He could only imagine how it must have been to have such curiosity and creativity and having had to bottle it up for so many years because of others who were her master.&nbsp; “We’ll have to make a list of what you might need to enjoy all of those things again if you wish.”<br><br>A small laugh escaped him once they were in the study and saw her reaction, content he could pull such a reaction from her.&nbsp; It was like being in church with a pious man the way she acted looking at all the books.&nbsp; “Of course,” he replied to her question, a chuckle in his voice.&nbsp; “I give you permission to read until your heart’s content.&nbsp; And if there’s anything else you’d want to read we can see about getting such books later.”&nbsp; He watched her with intense eyes as she looked over the shelves and set a gentle hand on her shoulder to reassure her it was all ok.&nbsp; While they would have to be careful when others were around, he did not want her to have to walk so carefully around him.<br><br>He observed her as she moved to the shelves of fiction, smiling knowingly as she did, figuring those would interest her the most.&nbsp; Still, he was surprised at her question and it showed in his eyes for a moment, glancing away as he considered how to reply.&nbsp; He was not use to sharing his thoughts, his life, with another person so it was difficult.&nbsp; But, she had trusted him with this secret she’d kept from others so how could he not be honored and feel an obligation to not hold back his own life.&nbsp; “Sadly, no,” he said, walking towards Lei.&nbsp; “The merchant who brought her here has disappeared as if wiped off the face of the earth.&nbsp; Some have mentioned that he owned a lot of debts and his life was payment, everything he owned taken.&nbsp; Quite possible his wife, my sister as well.”&nbsp; A muscle jumped in his jaw and his eyes grew dark with emotion at the idea but otherwise he didn’t let the pain show, the worry.&nbsp; “That was the reason I truly came here, to find out the truth.&nbsp; But if we do find her, I am sure she would gladly share her books with you.”<br><br>But her next words surprised him as he felt a strange feeling in his chest at her offer, looking at her with curious eyes.&nbsp; An unasked question lay deep in his eyes as he stared at her for a moment before the smile broke out over his lips.&nbsp; “I like that,” he said finally.&nbsp; “I think it would be nice.&nbsp; Perhaps you should choose one just for us so it doesn’t interrupt you reading any of the others.”&nbsp; There was something intimate and sweet about the idea of lying in bed with Lei or on the couch listening to her lovely voice read a story while he simply enjoyed her company.&nbsp; It provoked other thoughts he knew were better off left out of the picture for right now.<br><br>“Of course,” Brysen said, moving to place a hand back on her shoulder.&nbsp; “This will be our little secret.&nbsp; Perhaps during the day while Jenny and the other servants are around if you want to do any drawing or reading it should be done in here or in the bed room where the door can be shut and locked.&nbsp; So you are not discovered.”&nbsp; He squeezed her shoulder gently as he reached a hand out and brushed his fingers over her cheek and down her neck.&nbsp; “I would never betray your trust, Lei.&nbsp; We’ll just have to be very careful and discreet.&nbsp; I’ll keep you safe, I promise.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>25-01-2014, 01:59:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You don't have to, master." Lei commented his statement of not showing around how noble he was like Jago. "People respect you naturally, and I think they would laugh at sir Jago if he didn't show his power to the whole world." While Brysen had impressive looks, and that <em>something</em> in him that made many people a bit uneasy around him, Jago didn't. He was a rather short, fat man who was often stinking of half digested alcohol, even at the small hours of the morning. Nobody would ever take him seriously, if they weren't afraid of consequences. "But I still think it's nice to know what my master does."<br><br>"If you want to know something about Nekos, you can always ask me." She said, chuckling. Once again he told her of having little knowledge about her kind, but now they could communicate, there was nothing easier than asking if he had doubts about anything. Lei made a grimace as he mentioned the wine. "But i thought it was juice!" She explained herself. "I was thirsty, and there was nothing else to drink on the table... And besides that funny smell, the wine smelled a bit like juice too, so I though it would be fine if I drank some... Actually, I'm still thirsty." Since the 'wine incident', she never had the chance to drink anything else, so many thing happened so fast, that there was no time to think about that. <br><br>"Oh, but I'm sure your drawings are really good, master!" She exclaimed, sensinf that he didn't seem to be very sure of himself when it came to that. "I think the subject doesn't matter, when you like what you're doing." Maybe rocks and flowers weren't the most exciting drawing theme, but it didn't mean they couldn't be beautifully drawn. "Maybe we can buy the drawing tools next time we go to the market? Hopefully there won't be any Merikesh warriors to attack you then, that one was horrible enough already!" She exclaimed, and looked away from him. "But maybe if I wasn't too scared to move you wouldn't get hurt..." She said, pouting. Lei still blamed herself for his wound, because she was on his way and he had to protect her rather than concentrate on the fight.<br><br>When they entered the library, Lei felt like she was in paradise. There were shelves literally stuffed with books, and she had permission to read them all if she wished so! Jago did have a library too, but it wasn't this well stocked, and he hardly ever read anything, let alone let his pet roam freelily inside. But Lei would have sneaked in anyways, if only she wasn't permanently leashed or caged. "Oh, I think there is enough to read for months here!" She exclaimed happily. She planned to take her time, and to enjoy every story she could read.<br><br>"No, <em>when</em> we find her, master." She corrected him. Lei knew very well what it meant to be separated from the family. She too had siblings and parents, but she's been bought by her first master as soon as she was old enough to survive withought her mother, and she never saw saw them since then. "I am sure she is still alive, there was no reason for her to be killed with her husband, even if he had debts!" If anything, Brysen's sister has been sold to slavery, and was probably a maid or something like this in a noble house. <br><br>She nodded to his idea of choosing a book for them, and looked over the shelves to see if there would be something they would both enjoy. Since she doubted Brysen be interested in a cheesy love story, she selected something a bit different. "How about this one, master? I think it's about pirates and a treasure hunt." She said, showing him a cover with a pirate captain holding a small chest. Just for herself, she chose a classical love story.<br><br>"I know you'll keep me safe, I trust you, master." She smiled to him. As she looked at Brysen, Lei had a sudden urge to jump on him an kiss him, like he kissed before. She wasn't sure if she should surprise him like this though, so she made an effort to be more delicate. After setting the two books safely on Brysen's desk, she approached him, and hugged him tightly, wrapping her arms and tail around him, and resting her head on his chest. "You're the best master I could ever dream of." She whispered. <br><br>"If your sister is still in this city, I am sure we will find her. I wish I could help you looking for her... Maybe she works for one of the nobles now? If you told me how she looks, I could sneak in the servants quarters and check if she's there when we go to visit someone." She suggested, wishing to help her master in any way she could. If Brysen's sister was a slave, she wouldn't be allowed to serve guests like free maids, and would stay unseen by the free people.<br><br>While she was hugging him like this, she heard steps getting closer to the library. It was Jenny, bringing some snacks to them. Lei had just enough time to stop talking, but didn't let go of Brysen. "Oh there you are! I was looking for you!" The maid said, setting her tray on the table. "I see everything is well again! Lei was a very good girl helping me in the kitchen before." She said, as she promised Lei before, earning a grateful mewl from the Neko. "Here's coffee for you ,sir, and sweet cream for our Lei." She said, pouring coffee in a cup and cream in a small bowl. "Would you like to have something specific for dinner?" She asked, looking at the pair, happy that Brysen wasn't angry anymore. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>28-01-2014, 21:38:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“I’m just teasing you Lei,” Brysen quickly added when she got defensive about the wine.&nbsp; “We’ll need to get you something more appropriate to drink then.”&nbsp; He realized he had a lot to learn about keeping Lei well and good not to mention happy if they were to coexist well together.&nbsp; It was probably the reason he had not been so shocked when she’d talked as it meant he wasn’t alone, that he could have help.&nbsp; He was not use to asking others for help, for accepting it when it was offered, feeling he had to stand on his own two feet like a man.&nbsp; But there was something about Lei that made it easy to accept any help she would give.&nbsp; “I will ask in the future when I can should I doubt myself or have any questions.”<br><br>“Thank you,” he said to her compliment on his unseen drawing.&nbsp; “And I agree, it’s not the subject that is revealed as much as the artist when you draw or paint often.”&nbsp; A smile curled the corner of his lips as he talked to her finding her enthusiasm infectious and glad to have it in his life.&nbsp; The stress of his position along with the stress of trying to find his sister weighted heavily on him and it had been a long time since he’d simply enjoyed a pleasant moment.&nbsp; But, it seemed much easier with Lei to do so.&nbsp; “Quit talking like that.&nbsp; When blades are involved someone is going to get cut, it would have happened if you’d been there or not.&nbsp; But, yes, hopefully the market will be more pleasant and we can pick some stuff up for you.&nbsp; You can draw in the study while I do my work so you won’t have to worry about Jenny or someone else walking in on you unannounced.”<br><br>A sad nod came from Brysen when she corrected him to say when they found his sister.&nbsp; He’d been on the trail for a while now and found himself frustrated and feeling hopeless about everything.&nbsp; The world she had entered was not his world any more, he had grown up among the upper class but living as a soldier and an officer was so much different.&nbsp; It felt like people simply kept him from the truth because it was simply a game to them, a matter of keeping their status or some other vague reason.&nbsp; It left him feeling as if he’d never find his sister again.&nbsp; “What you say makes sense, I suppose,” he said, nodding.&nbsp; “In most things I have a soldier’s confidence, a belief that we will win, that there is always a winning strategy, but when it comes to such personal struggles… I guess I lack that same firmness.”<br><br>Looking over her shoulder, he looked carefully at the book she offered up and smiled, nodding.&nbsp; “Sounds good, Lei.&nbsp; You probably have better taste in literature then I do.&nbsp; My tutor use to try and infuse the classics into me but it just seemed too stodgy and boring.&nbsp; But the stories my sister would read were magical and touching.”&nbsp; He reached up and pet over her head and down her back, slow and delicately, looking at her with a touch of emotion in his eyes.&nbsp; “If you keep this up, Lei, I feel you will spoil me.”<br><br>Watching her carefully, she set the books down and approached him so carefully and quietly, wrapping her arms around him and felt her tail doing the same.&nbsp; Her head pressed into his chest and he found his arms instinctively wrapping around her, one hand coming up to cup the back of her head as it rested against him.&nbsp; His fingers played through her hair as he felt his heart beating faster as she held him.&nbsp; His fingers clutched at her when she mentioned he was the best master, pulling her tight against him.&nbsp; “And you are the best present anyone could ever hope for.&nbsp; The best companion I never thought I’d have.”<br><br>He looked at her carefully when she mentioned about his sister maybe working for one of the nobles and about helping her look for them.&nbsp; A curious look was on his face as he considered her plan not liking the idea of putting Lei in potential for any danger.&nbsp; But, the truth was they’d have to make visits as part of his position here, it was not only military but political in nature, and so would it be any danger really.&nbsp; “I.. I would appreciate your help but… you have to promise me you won’t take any unnecessary risk if we do visit some nobles.&nbsp; Everything you say, makes a great deal of sense but… seeing as I just found you, I don’t really wish to lose you.”&nbsp; A sad smile was on his lips as he looked away from her realizing he was growing too comfortable with her presences and the idea of not having it there already hurt.&nbsp; It was silly and it didn’t make any sense but he found he couldn’t chance it either.<br><br>Holding her, he began to lean down toward her, wanting suddenly to kiss her again when Jenny walked in, surprising him so focused on Lei.&nbsp; He was glad when she didn’t pull away, his own arms relaxing around her but not leaving her. He looked between Jenny and Lei when she said she’d helped, smiling. “Well, I’m glad Lei could help then.&nbsp; And I’m sorry about the outburst again, it’s just been a stressful day, but that’s no excuse for how I acted.”&nbsp; He watched her pouring out the cream, glad he didn’t have to go running to get Lei something to drink since she’d said she was still thirsty.&nbsp; “Thank you, Jenny, that’s very kind of you.&nbsp; And, as I’ve proven to Lei, I’m entirely pathetic in the kitchen so I’ll leave it in your more than capable hands of choosing.&nbsp; Whatever you want.”&nbsp; He smiled at her and leaving it up to her and her skill and enthusiasm to make something good.<br><br>Reluctantly, he slipped from Lei only enough to reach for the coffee cup and the bowl, plucking them both up and carefully walking to the padded bench that was before the large window.&nbsp; He set his mug down on a nearby table and patted the seat next to him for Lei to join him, still holding the bowl of crème.&nbsp; “It looks like you are in luck, Lei, you got something to quench your thirst.&nbsp; Why don’t we relax for a moment and enjoy some time.&nbsp; Put all the other stuff aside for a moment.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>30-01-2014, 01:43:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"But I would rather if it was only that Merikesh man getting hurt." She said, reaching to gently caress his hurt arm. "I hate to see you&nbsp; hurt, master! There was so much blood... And I hate the sight if blood, it's so scary! And then there was that medic and his... His <em>needle</em>, I hate needles! It's like the vet and his vaccines that always hurt so much!" Lei suddenly became very pale as she recalled that, and told him about one of her biggest fears. Even the simple memory of a needle made her shiver, and she didn't even want to think about her next health check up at the vet that was approaching with great steps.<br><br>"I promise that I won't take risks. Not too much." She chuckled. "But those visits, and meetings, they can be so long sometimes!" She complained, recalling the meetings of the nobles that she saw. They could last for hours, and were usually so boring to her, and surely to the other pets too. "And if we're not used for entertainment, nobody really pays attention to what we do." She shrugged, talking about herself and the other pets. "So if I go to spy a bit, nobody will ever notice, I'm sure! And even if they catch me, the worst thing they can do is bringing me back to you. I belong to you now, you're the only one who can punish me, master." Technically at least. She would probably get beaten, hard enough to feel it, but not enough to leave marks. She wasn't supposed to talk anyways, so her master should never know. "If it could help finding your sister, I'm willing to do anything, master." It was the least she could do to repay him for all his kindness. <br><br>Lei liked Jenny a lot, but in this particular case, she would have preferred it if the servant didn't interrupt her moment with Brysen. Well, at least it was for a fairly good reason, she brought something to drink for her and her master, and she really needed that. Besides, she always loved cream, so Jenny has been quickly forgiven for her intrusion. She was glad that she heard Jenny's footstep's in time though, or she would have caught Brysen and her in deep conversation. She didn't let go of him for all that, as if wanting to show the maid that the general was now hers, just as much as she was his. <br><br>While she felt Brysen's grip relax a bit, hers on the contrary tightened. She didn't want him to leg go of her, she wanted him to keep her close, and kiss her. Unfortunately, she would have nothing of that for now though. Brysen motioned for her to get on the padded bench next to him, which she did, placing herself a tad bit closer than it was proper. She took the bowl from his hand, and took a small sip. "Mmm, I forgot how good it tasted..." She said, a dreamy look on her face. Well, she wasn't getting the kiss, but at least she got a treat instead... <br><br>"Master Irion used to let me have sweet cream on Sundays, as a treat." She said, mentioning her first master's name. She never pronounced it before, and Brysen might recognize here the name of a very famous revolutionary alchemist. Lei heard that he was executed, but in reality she never knew for sure what happened to him, besides the fact that he's been arrested. He was trying to advance new theories on pets, such as the Nekos, stipulating that they could be just like the Humans. His ideas were deemed too futuristic though, and the authorities didn't let him pursue his studies. Incidentally, Lei was a fruit of his experiences, but this she didn't know either. For her, Irion was a very kind man, who treated her like she was his own daughter, and she loved him like a father in return.<br><br>"And we used to read stories together too. He always made me read for him. He was saying it was because he liked to hear my voice, but he just kept correcting me, until I read well enough." She said, shaking her head. It was a good memory, but it made her a bit sad.&nbsp; "But he never got mad at me, he just made me repeat, and redo everything until I got it right." During the years spent at various homes, Lei could see how private tutors taught the noble's children. Very often they lost their temper, and sometimes even beat the children for being lazy. Irion never did that, preferring to encourage, and reward for a good work. <br><br>"Anyways... I learned lots of things from him that way." She said, and took another sip of her cream. "And you, master? Did you have a good teacher too?" She asked him, thinking that he must have had the best tutors, since he was from a rich, noble family. She finished her cream at that point, and rested her head on his shoulder as she knelt besides him. Now she relieved her thirst, she once again tried to get closer to Brysen. She was perfectly happy to just sit with him, but some cuddling couldn't hurt. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>08-02-2014, 23:55:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Thank you Lei,” he repeated again.&nbsp; He didn’t know how else to express his appreciation to her for wanting to help him, to wanting to find his sister for him.&nbsp; His eyes were still but deep as he gazed at her, an unexpressed sentiment hiding in their depth.&nbsp; It was hard to be able to let down his armor as much as it was for her, he’d spent his entire life building them up, wearing it constantly.&nbsp; He knew he could be safe with her and not have to wear the mask he wore outside of these walls but it was still difficult to let down.&nbsp; “Besides, we don’t want you getting bored at long meetings so as long as you are careful, I am happy for your help.”<br><br>He’d felt her grip tighten on him but had to pull away reluctantly, more worried about her not drinking then enjoying the closeness.&nbsp; If he was going to keep her as his own, he needed to make sure she was well taken care off.&nbsp; Still, he was glad when she sat close to him on the bench and took the bowl from him.&nbsp; With one hand free, he let his arm slide down to settle around her back as she drank, sipping on his own coffee lightly.&nbsp; He watched her out of the corner of his eyes as she drank and a large smile was on his lips as he pulled the cup away, his other hand resting on her opposite shoulder.&nbsp; “I’ll have to ensure you have some around then for a treat, we wouldn’t you forgetting such pleasures.”<br><br>&nbsp;A questioning eyebrow rose at the name of her master, sure he’d heard the name before but unable to place it right away.&nbsp; The empire was not always very cohesive in its ways, secrets upon secrets.&nbsp; The emperor had at least three different secret police forces he knew of hidden under various guises of helping the throne and the country.&nbsp; He made a note of the name to check on later when he returned to his office in the fortress, if only to satisfy his curiosity and give Lei any closure if she needed.&nbsp; The thought surprised him that he’d willingly go looking through government documents to give info to his pet just because of how much he cared for her.<br><br>“It sounds like he was a very good man,” Bryson finally commented.&nbsp; “I’m glad you had such a man to at least guide you along when you were young.&nbsp; I know what it is to lose the one that cared for you as well, though not in such a way.&nbsp; My mother use to tutor me sometimes when I couldn’t seem to grasp something and my tutor grew frustrated.”&nbsp; A hint of sadness showed in his voice as he spoke, his eyes looking down at the floor.&nbsp; “It’s good to have someone to care for you, to be that barrier against the rest of the world.&nbsp; And I guess I’ll learn if he was right about the beautiful voice.”&nbsp; He grinned as he looked back at her, giving her a little squeeze with his arm.<br><br>“I had good teachers yes,” he said nodding.&nbsp; “Though I detested my math and science tutor who came in after my mother had passed.&nbsp; She was a vicious woman who liked to use a stick to help stick the subjects you were having trouble with into your head.&nbsp; My father thought it was amusing how quickly I learned with the threat of pain over me.&nbsp; But I adored the tutor who taught me history and literature, though I have to say I much preferred the history.&nbsp; He was kind and patient, though I still loved the private lessons with my mother as it was the most I ever got to see her often."&nbsp; He reached over and set his cup down on a nearby table as he enjoyed the feeling of her head on his shoulder, how her ears tickled near his neck.<br><br>With his now free hand, he reached around to touch his fingers to her cheek and stroke along until he was tracing down her jawline.&nbsp; His fingers curled under her chin as he shifted against her, his body moving as he lifted her head.&nbsp; Turning his head, his lips found hers and he kissed her softly at first, just savoring the light touch of hers and pulling away.&nbsp; But he leaned in again to kiss her more fervently as the arm around her back pulled her close to him.&nbsp; He could taste her on his lips along with the hint of cream which only added to the sweetness he found in her flavor.&nbsp; The second kiss pressed tight until his lungs demanded air and he pulled away from her, his fingers tracing over the lips he’d just kissed.<br><br>“I couldn’t resist myself,” he said quietly.&nbsp; “I know you’ve only been in my life such a short time but you are like a shelter against the storm to me.&nbsp; I find I can be safe and secure in your arms, to just be who I am.&nbsp; I know that sounds silly coming from a soldier, a general of soldiers, but it’s true.”&nbsp; His eyes blinked as he looked into her eyes and pulled her tight against him, wrapping both arms around her for a moment to hug her.&nbsp; “But, for a long time, I’ve thought I had become my armor.&nbsp; Cold and hollow.&nbsp; But, I don’t feel that now.”<br><br>Pulling back slightly, he reached up and petted a hand down her head before scratching behind her ears again, finding he loved the feel of her fur under his fingers.&nbsp; “I know you said I was a good master but if that is so it’s only because you have been a good pet, a good companion.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>11-02-2014, 23:18:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Ah, well… I don’t know if you already attended one of those <em>meetings</em>…” Lei said, disapprovingly rolling her eyes. “Sir Jago hosts a lot of them, so I know well how they go.” Lei didn’t know whether what she witnessed was the standard thing, or if it was specific to Jago’s circle, but figured that Brysen might be a bit surprised the first time he gets invited, if he gets invited, that is. Brysen wasn’t the type of Jago’s usual guests, but he was the new general, so he might receive an invitation out of curtsy. <br><br>“First, they speak about all those political matters… It can be very long sometimes, and that’s when it gets boring.” Politics wasn’t one of Lei’s centres of interest, and she found it boring and often overwhelming. Yet, it didn’t mean that she couldn’t understand simple things, like corruption, something that was over present in Jago’s businesses, and even she was well aware of that fact. “But when they’re done, they pass to what they call the <em>entertainment</em> part. And that’s when we’re usually needed…” She continued, shaking her head and sighing. “Those people make us do horrible things!” She said, a fierce blush on her face, visibly ashamed of what she was made to do, not even wanting to share the details with Brysen.<br><br>“But then there are also the more official meetings, with the lord of this city. There are all sorts of people attending, even the nobles who don’t appreciate sir Jago and the others like him. The politics are even more boring then, but fortunately there is no entertainment part, and when somebody brings a pet, it’s only to show it up.” Lei attended only one or two of such meetings, at the very beginning when Jago acquired her, and she still looked presentable. <br><br>Lei blushed a crimson red when he kissed her. He took her by surprise, but she enjoyed it a lot, and kissed him back when the initial startle faded. “Mmmm, master, I love it when you kiss me…” She purred, a satisfied smile on her face. “It’s almost like in the romance stories I like to read… And I like it when you scratch behind my ears too…” She confessed, blushing an even deeper shade of red.<br><br>“And, I thought that I wasn’t supposed to enjoy it when a master touches me. The pet’s pleasure never matters. We’re here to relieve our master’s tensions, isn’t it right? ” She asked, repeating what she has always been taught. Actually, Lei never enjoyed intimacy, having learned to associate a master’s touch with something unpleasant, which would surely hurt her. Sex was only one of her duties as a pet, nothing more. “But you’re always so gentle with me, that all I never want you to stop caressing me, is that a wrong thing, master?” Lei was very confused now. What she felt was the exact opposite of what she should feel! Over the years, she’s been conditioned to think in a certain way about certain matters, and she couldn’t do anything against it, not by herself at least. <br><br>“I don’t know if it’s something I can do, but I hope I can be as much of a shelter for you as you are for me, master.” She said, deeply touched by what he told her. She didn’t know on what way she could shelter him. She was nothing more than a simple neko, it’s not like she had magical superpowers, or something. Her master was the one who everyone respected and feared. Actually, Lei was rather glad about that. At least, nobody would dare touching her, without risking Brysen’s wrath, which wasn’t a good thing. It was a pretty convenient thing, giving her a larger field of manoeuvre when she will be spying while looking for her master’s sister.<br><br>“You made me drop my armour too, master.” She smiled. “You’re the only person with whom I can be truly myself. The only person I can talk to, and tell how I feel about things. It’s horrible when you always have to smile and pretend everything is just fine…” How many times did she have to do just that? How many times did she spend with a fake smile plastered on her face, but screaming in the inside? Lei didn’t even count then nights when she cried herself to sleep. But this was over now. Henceforth, if there is a problem of some sort, she would be able to talk with her master about that, and he will be listening to her, resolving the problem if he can, and comforting her. It sounded almost too pretty to be real.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>15-02-2014, 08:41:41</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				“Entertainment,” Brysen spat, a look of distaste on his face.&nbsp; He didn’t like the sound of it from Lei’s lips much less the look she gave at the thought.&nbsp; Reaching up, he stroked her cheek with the back of his knuckles, hatting to see that look in her eyes.&nbsp; He may not have been the cause but it didn’t stop him from wishing he could change it, take away the pain she had felt.&nbsp; He had never been to any such meeting but he could imagine the likes of Jago and his people did to their pets, those that they were supposed to be taking care of.&nbsp; A part of him wanted to promise Lei it would not happen to another pet but he knew he could not change the world, not even in his position.&nbsp; But he could ensure Lei never had to face such a fate again.<br><br>“You shall never been entertainment again,” he said, though a quick smile pulled at his lips.&nbsp; “Well, except for the amusements we find together.”&nbsp; His face blanched for a moment as he realized how his words could be taken without having intended such a notion.&nbsp; “I mean… not that such amusement as your other masters may have done… I meant… entertaining each other.”&nbsp; For the first time, he found himself stammering over his words feeling like some crush trying to tell the girl he’d always liked that he liked her.&nbsp; He felt all his normal confidence and steel slip away with her around and it was a frightening experience but a good one.&nbsp; As was the over protectiveness and possessiveness he found himself feeling with her any more.<br><br>Despite the boldness of his kiss, he found himself surprised when Lei started to kiss back, unsure if the affection would have been welcome.&nbsp; For a moment, he found himself falling into her and losing himself.&nbsp; He found himself holding his breath as she spoke, his chest tight when she confessed to liking the kiss, a bright smile coming unbidden to his lips.&nbsp; A light laugh left his lips when she said she liked behind her ears scratched too.&nbsp; “Then I shall have to endeavor to do both more often then, my dear Lei.&nbsp; I very much love to kiss your lips and to feel you under my fingers.”<br><br>He raised an eyebrow at her question about pleasure and it mattering, a thoughtful look on his face as he leaned closer to her.&nbsp; “I do not think that is right.&nbsp; Your first master, you said he had tried to make you more human such as speaking.&nbsp; Humans enjoy the touch of someone who cares for them, someone who wants to express their feelings physically.”&nbsp; Moving in towards her, he quickly pressed his lips to hers softly, gently before pulling away a few inches.&nbsp; “I don’t think it’s a wrong thing, I think it’s a right thing.&nbsp; You are not like other pets, other Nekos.&nbsp; We are making our own rules now so who cares what others have said is right, I much prefer you find pleasure in me as I find pleasure in you.”<br><br>“You already are sheltering to me,” he quickly added, brushing a finger along her jaw.&nbsp; “You do so just by being yourself.&nbsp; Knowing that you will be there for me when I’ve had a bad day, when I need some solace away from the world.”&nbsp; His gaze trailed over her face as his arms held her to him, feeling the warmth of her in his arms.&nbsp; He knew he could never fully explain the comfort he found in her, in the feeling of not being alone for the first time in a long time, but he hoped he would make her understand in time.&nbsp; “I do not feel alone in my path anymore.”<br><br>“I’m glad,” Brysen said, his voice quiet.&nbsp; “I prefer you to be yourself.&nbsp; I suppose it should be scary that we both can be unarmored together but somehow I find it soothing.”&nbsp; Forgetting his coffee, he turned on the bench and wrapped his arms around Lei to hug her tight against him, brushing his cheek against hers.&nbsp; She felt good in his arms and he realized there was no good place for them to relax in here away from her abilities being found out.&nbsp; “And I will keep you safe.&nbsp; Though I will have to see about getting a decent furniture in here for us.&nbsp; I find myself suddenly crazing to keep you in my arms, to cuddling you tightly in my lap.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>17-02-2014, 00:40:25</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				“Yes, master, entertainment.” Lei said, confirming her previous words. She could sense that Brysen was despising such form of entertainment, and she couldn’t be any happier about that. She didn’t like the look on his face when she told him about Jago’s decadent practices though. It was a mix of sadness and anger. Did she make him angry? Was he angry at her? Fortunately, her worries faded as he stroked her cheek, earning a soft purr for the gesture. It was amazing how he managed to make her feel every time he touched her, even if it was the softest, most innocent of caresses. <br><br>“But knowing sir Jago he will want to get to know you.” She said, sighing. Jago clearly didn’t want Brysen in the city, but he would be idiot becoming the enemy of such a powerful man, knowing absolutely nothing about him. “And then he will invite you, and you will have to assist at least one of those… <em>parties</em> he hosts, and…” She continued, but didn’t finish her sentence, biting her lip and blushing instead. She wanted to tell him that she wouldn’t want him to go, mostly because of jealousy. Lei always thought that other pets were much more beautiful and desirable than she was, and they would be displaying all of their charms at the infamous ‘entertainment part’, when the men would be encouraged to enjoy themselves with them. Not that she would let him go alone. Lei would do everything to go with her master, or she would get crazy waiting for him alone at home. <br><br>“Amusements? What kind of amusements, master?” She asked, blinking as she looked him in the eyes. He was so funny all of a sudden, like he thought he said something stupid, and now tried to correct himself, without much success though. “You know, I don’t mind doing anything you should find amusing…” She said smirking, seductively battling her eyelashes, and swaying her tail so it gently brushed his legs. Lei just wanted to playfully tease him, but she figured that if it was to be only them two alone, she would do literally <em>anything</em> he could ask of her. Not that he would make her do something indecent. Her master wasn’t this kind of man, not someone like Jago, he was a better person.<br><br>“Is this… Considered amusement… Too?” She asked. Lei was slightly dizzy after the kiss, it literally took her breath away. Just like Brysen, she was losing herself, and had trouble thinking absolutely straight whenever he was kissing her. Granted, it happened only a few times so far, but each and every time was absolutely magical. <br><br>“Master Irion was teaching me. I don’t know if he wanted me to be a human or not, and the only way he touched me was when he petted me every so often, he certainly never kissed me…” She said, confused about what he said. “He taught me how to speak, and read and all… But it doesn’t make me a human. I still have fur, and my ears, and a tail, and I am wearing your collar… It doesn’t matter how you look at me, master, I will still be a neko, your pet. But I think I enjoy expressing my feelings physically too.” She chuckled. Until now, she mostly expressed her feelings by mewling and crying, never thinking that it could also be done in a completely different way.<br><br>“I will always be there for you, when you have a good day too! And I do hope you will have much more good days than bad ones, master!” She exclaimed, not wanting him to think that his life from now on will be a harsh one, and that he will always come home in a bad mood after work. “I also hope that I will be having lots of good days too, from now on! No, I am sure I will! Now I can talk again, and read, and draw, and I’m not leashed all day long… You saved me, master. I don’t know how much longer I would live with sir Jago!” Now she said it, she realized that if Jago didn’t give her to Brysen, either she would get crazy, either she would kill herself, either she would die under the whip. Just by accepting her, Brysen actually saved her life. <br><br>“Ah, but you cannot cuddle while wearing an armour, can you? The steel would make it quite uncomfortable, don’t you think, master?” She joked at his comment about being unarmoured. “Besides, I think it would be much scarier being around each other if we didn’t cuddle, your lap is rather comfortable, and I love it when you hold me like this.” If she didn’t get to know the real him, Lei would be simply terrified of her master. He really did have all it took to intimidate people just by his looks and that little something in his air when he was playing the part of ‘the general’. Lei didn’t get to see ‘the general’ a lot, but what she saw was enough. With her he was just ‘Brysen’, and it was all that mattered. <br><br>Suddenly, and idea came to her head. She figured that Brysen wouldn’t have a day off tomorrow as well, he came here to work, and not on a holiday after all. The thing was, he wouldn’t be at home for the whole day, and Lei’s affection for him was still too new to be comfortable when he was away. She would feel safe only with him close to her.&nbsp; Maybe with time this would change, but for now, she felt like a teenager in love. “Master, would you bring me to work with you tomorrow? I promise to be on my best behaviour!” She asked, making her best puppy eyes as she looked at him. She did find politics boring, but it didn’t change the fact that she was also curious about Brysen’s job. “I don’t know what is it that you will be doing, but people bring their pets to work all the time, I think.” She said, trying to be convincing. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>19-02-2014, 05:37:17</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				A curious look was in his eyes as he watched Lei talk about Jago inviting him to one of his parties and as her words trailed off.&nbsp; It was true that even in his position he couldn’t go insulting the important locals who filled the coffers of the local lord and the Emperor.&nbsp; He could sense her apprehension and it seemed more then about the idea of being near him and his disturbing games again.&nbsp; His eyes looked over her face as if trying to figure out what it was but finding himself unsure.&nbsp; So, instead, he simply squeezed her closer with the arm around her back.&nbsp; “The art of war is also the art of deception.&nbsp; A good general must know when to meet a conflict head on and when to approach the battle from a different perspective.&nbsp; I’m sure I can arraign for us to get out before the entertainment as I have no desire to witness such.”<br><br>A light laugh was in his throat when she asked him about amusements, looking him in the eyes.&nbsp; Still, he felt a shiver move through him when she said she wouldn’t mind doing anything with him, batting her eyes at him.&nbsp; And then her tail brushed against his leg and he had to steel himself not to jump out of his seat, suddenly realizing how much she had affected him in that short time.&nbsp; “I’m sure not talking about any ball of string,” he said, winking at her.&nbsp; “I figure we will find our own ways of keeping each other amused giving time.&nbsp; We’ve already figured out we enjoy kissing and holding one another, that could take up plenty of time.&nbsp; And then there is all the reading and painting.”&nbsp; A small smirk showed on his lips as he leaned in so he was almost nose to nose to her.&nbsp; “Though that look you are giving me is making it real hard to consider the later amusements.”<br><br>Looking at her, he felt the flush of excitement unlike he’d felt since she’d dived into the tub with him, the thought bringing its own warmth.&nbsp; He’d made a promise to her and since then he’d been trying quite hard not to think of her as anything but a companion, perhaps a friend and a confidant.&nbsp; But, the way her lips felt against his and her body felt in his arms made it hard to think straight, to think about anything but being with her.&nbsp; The rest of the world seemed to fade for a few moments from his thought as he simple enjoyed her company and wanted more.<br><br>“Amusement,” he said again, shaking his head.&nbsp; “I’m not sure amusement is the right term for it.&nbsp; A pleasant enjoyment.&nbsp; Enjoyment of each other.&nbsp; Amusement seems less fitting.”&nbsp; He found himself smiling without meaning to but the lingering feeling of her lips on his, the remnants of the warmth of her breath on his face made it hard not to feel content.&nbsp; The want to linger on those lips was strong but he realized it would be harder to hold himself in check, to hold to his promise, if he did.<br><br>Shaking his head, he held a finger up to Lei’s lips to still her words, smiling as he looked into her eyes.&nbsp; “Don’t overthink it too much. I just meant you had said Master Irion had made you to be different.”&nbsp; He moved his finger to give her a peck on the lips before pulling back slightly again.&nbsp; A hint of seriousness showed in his eyes as he looked at her, the hand at her back playing up and down the curves of her muscles.&nbsp; “I do have to admit I like the idea of you expressing your feelings physically.&nbsp; I’ll have to ensure I make sure they are good feelings, I wouldn’t want to get scratched.”&nbsp; His lips opened but he quickly pulled his jaw tight biting off his words almost adding that it might be fun to get scratched, not use to teasing someone.<br><br>He had to smile when she mentioned being there for his good days as well, chuckling lightly as he brushed his hand over her.&nbsp; “Hopefully we will both be having very good days,” he agreed, reaching his free hand up to scratch behind her ears.&nbsp; His fingers were slow as he did, enjoying the feel of her fur on his fingertips, how it tickled his skin lightly.&nbsp; “I’m not sure I feel like I saved you but I’m glad if I did, that I was able to bring you into a good place.”&nbsp; The thought warmed his heart though and pulled at the corner of his lips to deepen his smile, amazed at how she affected him in such a pleasant way.&nbsp; <br><br>“I believe you are correct, Lei, it would be most uncomfortable,” he said, sliding his finger down her jaw.&nbsp; His finger slid down her neck and ran along the curve of it and over her shoulders.&nbsp; “Some might say cuddling is best with nothing on at all.”&nbsp; A mischievous smile was on his lips as he winked at her again, surprised at his own audacity.&nbsp; “And I’m glad you find my lap comfortable, it’s quite comfortable and more to have you in my lap.&nbsp; It’s been a long time since I’ve felt comfortable with anyone.&nbsp; I’m very glad you are mine.”&nbsp; He reached up and stroked his fingers around the collar at her throat which proclaimed her his, finding himself growing quite possessive of her.<br><br>A curious look was on his face when she asked to go with him to work tomorrow, pursing his lips for a moment.&nbsp; His first instinct was to tell her no as it would be boring for her, it was mainly administrate work and getting to know the men under him.&nbsp; But she made those sad eyes at him but more importantly, he found himself not liking the idea of being separated from her having found this deeper bond with her, this new level of communication.&nbsp; “I fear you would be bored, Lei.&nbsp; But I’d be happy to take you with me.&nbsp; Whether or not people do it all the time, I am the new general so they will have to simple accept my ways, accept things will not be the normal.&nbsp; And perhaps we’ll test this promise of best behavior,” he added teasingly.&nbsp; He leaned in and kissed her lips again, lingering on them again as he slipped a hand under her legs and drew her into his lap.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>23-02-2014, 03:07:22</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Brysen’s reaction to her teasing made Lei grin. She was glad that she had such an effect on him; at least it confirmed her that he found her attractive. Lei couldn’t be any more happier that her master resolved to respect her intimacy, and wasn’t forcing her to have sex with him, or please him in any other way. Yet, just the simple knowledge that she was attractive to him was a very satisfying thing. She liked to feel beautiful, and now that there wasn’t any competition, it was an even easier task than ever. Besides, she now had free access to every beauty products and cosmetics she might think of, and was determined to use them, so that Brysen never stops finding her pretty and desirable. <br><br>“What look, master?” She asked innocently, instantly stopping to battle her eyelashes at him while she spoke. “I love painting and reading, but they are not overly social amusements, don’t you think?” She said, suddenly changing the subject, not even letting him answer her previous question. “Well, except when I’ll be reading to you, but it’s only one thing, and we can’t do that all the time.” She added, fighting the urge to kiss him. Their faces were so close, that she felt his warm breath, and restraining herself from joining her lips with his was a very hard task. <br><br>Finally, after a few seconds of such torture, she couldn’t help herself, and lightly kissed his cheek, licking it softly with her rough tongue just before she withdrew, and giggled. “I’m sorry master, it was too tempting.” She explained, quite proud of herself that she resisted to kiss him directly on the lips. If she did, she didn’t know if it would be enough for her. Probably not, and she would end up embarrassing herself, perhaps even make Brysen not want to see her anymore, and this she couldn’t bear. Lei realized that she felt a strange attraction to her master, something she never felt before towards any male, be it human or neko. She respected him, and trusted him completely. She loved to talking with him, and even simply be with him. Besides, despite the shock she experienced when she saw him for the very first time, and despite the scar on his face, she found him a very handsome man. <br><br>While Lei received some formal education, even more so than many humans, nobody ever taught her anything about emotions. She knew practically nothing about feelings, what was normal, and what was not. All her very limited knowledge was taken from more or less cheesy love stories, which were a pretty poor teacher in the matter. She might have read about <em>being in love with someone</em>, but she would not be able to tell that it was exactly what was happening to her now, and thus was confused, and scared of her feelings and sensations. <br><br>“Oh, you… You do, master?” She said, wondering why he was so serious all of a sudden. On the one hand, she was glad that he enjoyed her ‘expressing her feelings physically’, but on the other hand, she wasn’t so sure anymore if it was such a good idea. The physical closeness made her flush, and feel strangely warm all of a sudden. Her thoughts were being oddly incoherent, and the fact that he was caressing her so expertly didn’t help at all in regaining her composure. She didn’t really know what was happening to her and wanted him to stop, so she could think, but at the same time she hoped the divine caresses would never cease.<br><br>“Why… Why would I want to… Scratch you, my master?” She asked, doing her best to speak, although her cat nature was slowly taking over her, and she placed an occasional mewl and purr while talking. “Scratching is… For fighting, and… And I don’t want to… Fight with you… I don’t have any chance… Anyways…” As if she could ever win a fight against him! She did successfully struggle against some too aggressive masters in the past, but none of them was so strong, and powerful like Brysen. <br><br>“You mean, um… ‘With nothing on at all’, as in… ‘Naked’, master?” She asked him, suddenly thinking that it’s not such a bad idea. As far as she was concerned, she wouldn’t mind being naked that much. Brysen did see her in her birthday suit already, and maybe it would stop being so horribly hot if she didn’t have any clothes to cover herself? Plus, Lei saw him naked too already, and now she thought about his lean, muscular body again… <br><br>No! She must stop that at once, or she will really end up making something stupid! She can’t behave like some stupid animal in heat. First, it wasn’t her time for that now, and second, she always was able to control herself pretty well when it was, why would it be any different now? The thing was, Brysen really wasn’t helping her at the moment. “I love being yours, my masterrrrr…” She purred, and realized that what she just said might be interpreted in a slightly different way than what she wanted to say, a mere answer to his comment. <br><br>Fortunately, and after a few very deep breaths, she managed to ask about accompanying him to work the next day. From his initial reaction, she feared that he might say no, and make her stay at home, but he finally agreed to take her with him. “Thank you so much, master!” She exclaimed enthusiastically. I bet there will be plenty of interesting things to see and I won’t be bored!” Sure, as if she could ever be bored with him. Just looking at him and studying his expressions would be a funny enough thing to do. She just wasn’t sure about this whole ‘testing her good behavior’ thing. But then, whatever it might be, everything is worth spending a day with her master. <br><br>As she was silently celebrating her small victory, Brysen suddenly kissed her again, and drew her closer to him. Lei returned his kiss, of course, and all the sensations from before came back to her. Once again she was feeling unusually warm and dizzy. “Mmmmm, I love it when you do that, master…” She purred, and softly mewled a few times. “Why is it so warm here?” She asked, unsure if what she felt was normal or not. “Maybe… Maybe we can go out to the garden?” She suggested, thinking that a few breath of fresh air might do her good.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>25-02-2014, 04:40:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A smirk was on his lips as she asked about what look and batted her lashes at him, looking so sweet and innocent.&nbsp; It was hard to believe this was the same Neko who’d been so frightened of him and broken from the ugliness of humans.&nbsp; But, he realized he didn’t feel like the same man that had been standing there glaring at her, pained at how she reacted to his scarred face.&nbsp; He couldn’t remember the last time he’d thought about his scars since they had started to get comfortable with each other.&nbsp; It was surprising to have found himself so enjoying himself and loosing himself at the same time. It was such a short time yet they seemed to have crossed a large chunk of life in that period.<br><br>He found himself staring into her eyes and feeling her breath caressing his face, enjoying how beautiful and fragrant she was.&nbsp; Her scent filled his nostrils like a fine wine on the tongue, bringing a tingle under his skin.&nbsp; Then, suddenly, she moved and kissed his cheek before lightly licking his skin, the rough texture of her tongue causing him to shudder at the strange but interesting sensation.&nbsp; He’d never felt such a feeling and it caused his mind to wonder how her tongue would feel on him elsewhere.&nbsp; She giggled and apologized though he sensed no remorse in it, a fact that brought a bright smile to his face.&nbsp; The general was not known for his playful side among his men but he felt it coming out with Lei, drawn out by her.<br><br>“I think it can be forgiven,” he said quietly.&nbsp; “I have a secret to confess though.”&nbsp; His voice was serious despite the curve of his lips as he looked at her with his bright brown eyes.&nbsp; He leaned into her and moved so his cheek brushed against hers as he moved to her ear as if to whisper into it, his breath warm over her skin.&nbsp; His lips parted but instead of speaking he leaned down and kissed at her neck just below her jaw line as his hand reached up and scratched behind her ears sensually.&nbsp; He kissed his way down her neck before slowly running the tip of his tongue back up before pulling away.&nbsp; “You are too tempting as well.”<br><br>His eyes looked over her carefully as she talked seeing the flush of her skin and the strange look in her eyes suddenly.&nbsp; He wondered what was going on in her head but also wasn’t sure he wanted to know.&nbsp; He was to be her owner and her his pet, he shouldn’t be letting it get complicated with these strange feelings prickling up the back of his spine and into his brain.&nbsp; &nbsp;It made him warm and provoked thoughts he knew shouldn’t be so strong in his mind as he had plenty of other things to worry about but he found she anchored him in a way, while buoying him as well.<br><br>A laugh rippled from his lips as he shook his head when she asked about scratching, looking away towards the bookcase as he tried to organize an appropriate response.&nbsp; He realized he had painted himself verbally into a corner.&nbsp; “Well, I’m sure you could give me a run for my money but I wasn’t talking about fighting.&nbsp; Sometimes… women use their nails to scratch… in the throes of passion.”&nbsp; His voice was hesitant as he seemed not sure how to properly discuss the matter, sex was something you joked about with soldiers in the trenches not discussed with an adorable woman.<br><br>“Naked,” he said, laughing lightly.&nbsp; “That was what I meant.&nbsp; I guess I’m not the greatest in making innuendos.&nbsp; I’m used to being the one that runs into the enemy full bore, not a man of eloquent words.”&nbsp; He had never been more disappointed in the fact that he was a man of action and not a man of words as he found himself wanting to write poems about the beauty Lei, of how she made him feel.&nbsp; But he was sadly lacking in such things.&nbsp; A soft smile curled his lips up at her words as he stroked his hand over her fur, running it from behind hear ears to slide over her back.&nbsp; “I love you being mine,” he said, his voice growing hoarse with feeling.&nbsp; “I will gladly take all of you that I can have.”<br><br>The smile was still on his lips from her excitement at going to work with him tomorrow, a face he found pleasant as well.&nbsp; And the taste of her lips was still on his as she purred and mewed so delightfully before mentioning it being hot and asking to go for a walk in the garden.&nbsp; “Is it hot,” he asked, feeling a prickling of warmth himself.&nbsp; Regretfully, he sighed as he gave her one last scrub behind the ears before slipping from her grasp to stand up, looking back at her.&nbsp; “A walk sounds nice.&nbsp; I don’t think we need the leash in the privacy of the garden but… why don’t you take my hand just to be safe.”&nbsp; He held out his open palm towards her to take, smiling as he waited for her.&nbsp; <br><br>Once she’d taken his hand, he slowly led her down the hall and out the glass doors that led into the garden area, the sound of the trickling water loud in the late afternoon air.&nbsp; The scent of the flowers or the warmth of the setting sun was wasted on him as he was lost in thought as they walked, remembering some of what he’d been told about pets.&nbsp; It was a simple idea that consumed him as they walked over the set bricks that made the path, his fingers flexing around her hand.&nbsp; One of the men he’d served with had made a joke one night in camp about the noblemen and their pets.&nbsp; That you could only claim full ownership by taking the pet as a man takes a woman.&nbsp; He found the image of her wet and glistening in the tub running through his mind as they walked finding it difficult to remember his pledge to her, not to do anything she didn’t want.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>02-03-2014, 02:16:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lei found it rather hard to believe that some women liked to scratch their partners while making love to them. And what did those words mean anyways: <em>In the throes of passion</em>? What was that whole passion anyways? Lei never experienced anything like this, and could only vaguely suppose what Brysen was talking about. “Master, I’m just a Neko.” She chuckled, shaking her head. “And you’re a general; I have no chance against you even if I tried my best.” She was sure that he could subdue her in seconds, should they ever fight against each other. The thought was too absurd though, and she didn’t even think about it for more than a few seconds.<br><br>“I am not even supposed to be able to speak, and yet I am here talking to you.” She commented his statement of not being too eloquent and preferring actions to words. “I think that you never know what you can do before you try it, master.” Who knows, maybe if he tried harder, he would be able to express himself better? “And what if not finding the right words for what you want to say was the enemy? Shouldn’t you be running into it, and destroying it? And then you would be able to find your words?” Maybe it was a stupid suggestion from her part, but it was the first thing that came to her mind. <br>Lei was rather relieved when they parted for a few seconds to stand up. Would they be seated together like this for longer, and she would probably have a much greater trouble to let go of him, especially after that last scrub behind her ears which made her purr again, and her master’s last words before letting her raise: “<em> I will gladly take all of you that I can have</em>”… But what was it that he wanted from her? From the way he was looking at her, she could guess he will eventually want to have sex with her, and there was nothing surprising in that. He was her master, and it was pretty normal that when a healthy human has a pet, he has sex with it. But was it only sex that he wanted? He said that he wanted <em>all</em> she can give. Now, what exactly was she able to give him?<br><br>She always wondered why the humans liked sex so much. From her point of view, it was a duty. Depending from who, and how was using her, it usually felt from pleasant, to absolutely horrible. She never experienced a passionate lovemaking with a man she loved though, and she didn’t even know such a thing was possible. Truth be told, it always scared her more than anything else, especially when she was being used by a new master. She couldn’t know what his preferences were, and the consequences of displeasing a master in the bedroom were considerable, and unpleasant enough for the pets to do everything to satisfy the master. The only problem was, that there weren’t many masters who cared whether the pet feel good or not.<br><br>Now however, Lei felt like she was submerged in an ocean of various, often contradictive feelings, sensations, and memories, which made her more confused than anything. On the one hand, she was scared to give herself to Brysen, and on the other hand there were all those new feelings she already had for him, and that she never had for anyone else before. He did promise her that he would never force her to do anything she doesn’t want to, but Lei wasn’t sure what did she want anymore. <br><br>“Oh, no please, not the leash…” She said with a pleading voice. “What can possibly happen in the garden? And it’s not like I am going to run away from you, you can trust me on that matter, master.” She said, pouting slightly. She thought he would trust her a bit more than that by this point. Besides, she already got used to her relative freedom within the house, and wouldn’t want to be restrained again when there was no immediate need to. In public it was a whole different story. Firstly, the law stated that all pets must be leashed. Secondly, it assured her safety: nobody would take her for a stray, and it was more difficult to steal a pet who was attached to his master. She did agree to hold his hand though, and gently grabbed it, nodding when he offered it.<br><br>The fresh air of the late afternoon was a relief, as she thought it would be. Once they got outside, Lei closed her eyes, inhaled deeply, and shook her head, as if it could blow her confusion out of her mind. It wasn’t too successful though, and she thought it would be best if she didn’t touch Brysen for a while if she wanted to regain her composure. She let go of his hand then, and without a word went towards the fountain to sit on its edge. She put a hand in the cool water, closed her eyes again, and just sat there like this for a few moments. Yes, that was good. Her thoughts were becoming clear again, and she was able to think freely again.<br><br>Lei knew she should talk to Brysen about her feelings, but she had no idea where to start, what to tell him. She couldn’t just bluntly ask him whether he wished to have sex with her or not, and that she was scared, after all. What would he think of her? No, she must not talk about that, not even think. She didn’t want to accidentally do or say anything stupid. Therefore, she had to find a safer topic for them to discuss. “Master, what is your work like?” She finally asked him, curious about what she was going to observe the next day.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>07-03-2014, 14:41:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Brysen had moved without thinking and he found himself looking into the pleading eyes of Lei, a sigh moving his lungs.&nbsp; Nodding, he tossed the leash to the side and bid her to follow him out to the garden area.&nbsp; It was a bit unnerving that he could be so thrown in confidence with the little one at his side yet could lead a squad of men into heavy fire against the front lines of an enemy without flinching.&nbsp; He wondered what it was which heeled him so he felt like he was always making a mistake, always moving carefully only to find out he had messed up again.&nbsp; “I’m sorry, I was just… I wasn’t thinking, Lei.&nbsp; I trust you.”<br><br>The air was warm on his skin though it quickly reminded him of the scar on his face, slashing down his face.&nbsp; It was some joke of the gods that pleasant days reminded him more of his imperfections then the grey and ugly ones, the scar tissue cooler against the sun with no nerve endings.&nbsp; Normally, it didn’t bother him so much but with Lei there near him, it was like a mask covering his face while exposing his ugliness.&nbsp; It only felt more so when she slipped from his hand and moved away from him, watching her out of the corner of his eyes.&nbsp; She was so beautiful he found it hard to understand how anyone had ever harmed her in the past, used and abused her.<br><br>He looked over at her when she asked about his position and what he did, nodding at her question but not quickly acknowledging it.&nbsp; He walked closer to the small pond set into the garden, a little waterfall sending water rushing down into the water where decorative fish swam, shimmering blues and golds on their scales.&nbsp; “Well,” he started, staring at the reflection in the water.&nbsp; “I maintain the garrison in this area of the empire.&nbsp; Nothing happens with the military without my approval or command unless it comes from the few higher than me.&nbsp; I ensure our forces are ready and prepared at a moment’s notice, maintaining a presence in this city but also at numerous forts and watchtowers around the area.”<br><br>A quiet look crossed his face as he glanced at her a moment, a strange look in his eyes as he did.&nbsp; Swallowing hard, he found himself full of old memories flowing through his mind, ones he didn’t wish to remember.&nbsp; “Should hostilities begin, it would be my job to order men to their death in defense of our empire.&nbsp; War requires sacrifice and that means some men must die so the greater good can prosper and go on to victory and their family.”&nbsp; Brysen chanced a glance at Lei for a moment as he paused, his face serious and grim.&nbsp; “That is one of those things that war mongers like Jago don’t understand or don’t care about, that good men need to die so they can fill their coffers.”<br><br>Standing there, a bitter laugh left his lips as he shook his head, closing his eyes for a moment.&nbsp; “I’m sorry, Lei.&nbsp; I don’t mean to get so morose.&nbsp; I got off the question a little there.”&nbsp; A sigh pulled at his chest as he looked up at the sky, watching the clouds float by slowly.&nbsp; “I think war robs a man of something, a small part of his soul.&nbsp; And I’m not sure you ever get it back.&nbsp; Hopefully, with myself in this position, I can bring some common sense to the local lord and the Emperor.&nbsp; I consult with the lord weekly and I send monthly reports to the Emperor’s advisors.&nbsp; Another part of my duties.”<br><br>“Lei,” he started, his voice quiet.&nbsp; For a moment he was going to tell her she should sleep out by the fire tonight as it would have been best, he felt himself getting too confused with her company.&nbsp; He’d never owned a pet like her and the idea of simply having fun with her was a foreign idea, he gave anything he dedicated himself to his all.&nbsp; And he felt himself drawing too deep into her, drowning in those lovely eyes of hers.&nbsp; “I… I wanted to ask you a question.”&nbsp; He couldn’t do it, as much as he was worried he wanted her company, her presence, her, with him.&nbsp; “Why do you read those romantic stories?&nbsp; I’ve always found ballads and plays about true love rather… depressing.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>13-03-2014, 04:36:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The topic she believed more or less safe to discuss proved to be the contrary once Brysen began to talk about it. At first he explained his basic duties, without giving any detail though. But then he continued talking about being a commander, and about the war.&nbsp; What he said made Lei feel suddenly uneasy. War was a horrible thing, she knew that very well, but she couldn’t believe that her master has been robbed of parts of his soul. “Master, what… Please, don’t say things like that!” She said, as she approached him by the pond. “Why are you saying you don’t have your soul anymore? That cannot be true!” She exclaimed, grabbing his hand out of impulse, wanting to comfort him. “Good people like you surely still have all their soul!”<br><br>Lei was blaming herself for his morose mood. If she didn’t ask her stupid question, he would never begin speaking about all those horrible things. “But why would any hostilities begin now? I thought war was over…” She still remembered only too well those dreadful times, and never wanted them to come back. Especially now, that she finally found a place she could call home, and a good master who seemed to be fond of her. She certainly didn’t see him as a man who was a ruthless killer. <br><br>Lei didn’t even want to think what would happen with her should there be a new war. Brysen would have to go to the front, to command his men, but what about her? Trenches were no place for pets. Would she be given to a new master then? That would be unbearable; no other person could be her master now, but Brysen. And what if he got injured, or worse; what if he died? How would she be supposed to live?<br><br>“I just wanted to know what you will be doing tomorrow, master.” She said with a shy voice. She didn’t want it to cause any other musings about wartime and missing parts of souls. “I mean, will you be in your office the whole day, or will you be, I don’t know… inspecting the troops, or something?” Lei was a curious creature by nature, and since she had absolutely no idea whether Brysen will be doing some boring paperwork, or something more exciting, she preferred to ask. Besides, she would also have to dress appropriately, if she’s allowed to pick her attire, of course. <br><br>She stood beside him, watching the colourful fish in the pond while she was waiting for his answer. It was true they were not looking like regular fish, and she understood well that they were here for decoration purposes. Yet, it was beyond her why on earth any fish, no matter how pretty and shining was used as decoration. Fish were meant to be eaten, period. Actually, she was beginning to seriously consider fishing those strange creatures, just for sport, but figured that Brysen wouldn’t be too happy if she did that. It must be one of those ‘too human’ things that she would never understand.<br><br>After he answered her question, he asked her one in return, a rather strange one. “Huh? Why am I reading romance novels?” She repeated, raising an eyebrow in surprise. “I don’t know, I never really thought about that, I just like them… But I don’t find them depressing. On the contrary, I think they are beautiful.” Well, most of them at least. She did read some that would make a respectable maiden blush, and that she would never admit to have read. Especially since she was not old enough for this kind of stories by the time she read them. <br><br>“I always liked to pretend that I am one of those heroines I read about. Whenever I was locked in a cage, I pretended that I was a princess locked in a tower, and it was way easier to bear.” She said, snorting at her own silliness. “And it was the only way for me to learn about love, since I knew it will never happen to me in the real life.” She said, shaking her head. That was pretty sad actually, but she never felt this sad while reading. She was in a completely different, magical world then. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>23-03-2014, 07:04:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A hint of surprise showed on Brysen’s face when Lei grabbed his hand and held it, her words unexpected.&nbsp; He didn’t usually open up to many but he doubted any would react or care as forcefully as the Neko seemed to in that moment.&nbsp; It was touching in a way he couldn’t really define but gave him a warm feeling in his gut.&nbsp; The idea that there was someone out in the world that cared for him touched something deep inside of himself.&nbsp; He’d learned early on despite his noble background that the only reason someone had any interest in another was for what it could get them, that love and all those poetic ideas were just foolish dreams.<br><br>His hand squeezed hers for a moment and then drew it up to set it against his chest, over his heart.&nbsp; “Forgive my overly poetic and depressing words, Lei,” he said, smiling for her.&nbsp; “I did not mean to sound so… dark.&nbsp; It’s been a long time since I’ve had to test the light that lay within me so it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the dark.&nbsp; But now I have you, so hopefully you will keep pulling more of that light out.”&nbsp; He drew her hand up to his lips and kissed her finger tips before letting her hand go finally.<br><br>“I’m sorry, I didn’t not mean to go off on a tangent,” he apologized, looking down at the pond.&nbsp; “I imagine we’ll be inspecting the troops later in the day after I’ve checked in on things in my office.”&nbsp; A curious thought came to him as he contemplated the day, glancing over at her with a growing smile.&nbsp; He remembered how she had liked sticking her head out of the window of the coach and it brought a new idea into his head.&nbsp; “In fact, I had a thought.&nbsp; Have you ever been in an airship?&nbsp; We have a few scout ships in dock, most of the larger ones are on patrol.&nbsp; But, we could inspect the crew and go out on a small voyage for a little bit, test them and enjoy the wind and the sights.”<br><br>Her talk about the book surprised him that she found comfort in stories of love when the world seemed to keep her from any such notion.&nbsp; He nodded at her answer but reached out a hand and placed it on her shoulder, giving a gentle squeeze.&nbsp; “I have always found it hard for that same reason, knowing that love was something I would never have.&nbsp; I thought I was in love once but it turned out the person was just using me.&nbsp; And growing up, well, marriage is just a tool for nobles to broker deals and alliances, it is never about love like in the tales you and my sister read.”&nbsp; His fingers stroked up her shoulder and traced along the curve of her neck as he talked, simply enjoying the presence of her company.<br><br>As he stood there, he felt his breath coming a little faster as he considered his next words, something that had been rolling around in his head for a while since their trip.&nbsp; He’d considered her life as they had moved through things and doubted anyone had ever taken care of her properly, treated her as the precious pet she was.&nbsp; But, still, it felt like he was skimming the lines of their agreement even if he wouldn’t do anything without asking.&nbsp; It was a strange notion to think how important he suddenly found her to be in his life and he wasn’t sure what that might mean for them both.&nbsp; He didn’t want to be like the other masters she’d had or known through Jago but he wasn’t sure how to achieve such a thing.<br><br>“Lei,” he started, finally pulling himself from his thoughts.&nbsp; “I have a favor to ask.&nbsp; I promised I would never do anything to you without your permission and this seems to flirt the line, so I wanted to ask.”&nbsp; He looked over at her, turning his body to face her as he reached a hand up to cup her chin.&nbsp; “When we were at the shop with the soaps and such.&nbsp; I… I picked up some special oils.&nbsp; I can guess that you’ve never been properly cared for before and I wish to change that.&nbsp; These oils, they are meant to be massaged into the skin.&nbsp; I thought if you would let me, I could apply it before bed as I’m told a massage is very relaxing.&nbsp; I mean, I assume you’d share my bed again, obviously.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>29-03-2014, 00:26:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Brysen’s hand felt warm to the touch, and his chest even more so. Lei smiled as she felt his heartbeat under her fingers; somehow it made her reassured. “Your heart beats strongly, master.” She said, gently caressing him through his shirt. “It proves that you are very much alive, and I don’t think a soulless person would be so full of life. Which means you do have your soul, and the war didn’t change that.” His earlier statement really troubled her, and she refused to believe it. “Being overwhelmed by the dark is no good, especially when the world around is so fascinating.” She said, her words sounding as if she was scolding him for being so pessimistic. “I have been living in the dark for long enough too, but now it’s over, and this is thanks to you, master!” She said, blushing as he kissed her fingertips, like she was some high-class lady and not a pet. <br><br>She nodded when he explained her the plan for the day, wondering how the inspection will be like. Office work, she could imagine. Jago was often doing paperwork, so she more or less knew what it was like, but ‘inspecting the troops’ was something new and sounded exciting. Besides, Lei didn’t fail to notice that Brysen said ‘we’ instead of ‘I’ when talking about the inspection, and it made her feel special, as if she was standing higher in the hierarchy than the soldiers. She knew well that it was a silly thought, but she figured it didn’t hurt since it was only in her head anyways. The soldiers were here to ensure everybody’s safety in case of war, and that included her as well, so she should show them respect, rather than haughtiness. <br><br>“An airship? A real one? Like those that fly in the sky? Like that big one?” She asked, her eyes literally glowing from excitement, pointing at an airship that just passed above them, as Brysen suggested that they might take a small trip the next day. Obviously, she never been in one before, and she already couldn’t wait for the trip. “Is it like traveling by carriage? Is it faster? Oh, and can we touch the clouds once we’re up in the sky?” Lei bombarded him with questions, not even waiting for an answer before asking the next one. “Master, that’s… I never thought I’d see one from close, not to mention actually flying in one… Sir Jago once did, I remember that he came home sick, and went straight to bed. He must have not liked the height…” She said, giggling at the memory. Served him well, in her humble opinion. <br><br>She snorted and shook her head when Brysen told her of his vision of love and marriage. “I guess it is a good thing that I will never marry anyone. But then, giving gifts can just as well broker deals and alliances. And I can be a gift, in fact I am. Although I hadn’t been used to secure an alliance.” She sighed and purred, enjoying the caress. She wanted to tell him it wasn’t true that he will never have love. Maybe they didn’t know each other for that long, but he did have her love already. Lei wanted to tell him that, but she wasn’t sure how would he take it. What if he freaks out and rejects her? Their relationship was still new and fragile; she didn’t want to ruin it when it began so well. Besides, she wasn’t exactly sure of her own feelings. Sure she was fond of him, and she didn’t want to be away from him, but could it be called love? Was it like in the books?<br><br>Brysen surprised her with his little request. Actually, the way he said it made him look like he feared to be rejected by her, as if something like this would be even possible. If she understood well, he wanted to massage her, which didn’t sound like a favor from her part at all. She appreciated the fact that he asked for her permission, although he didn’t have to do that. He was her master, he had the right to do with her as he pleased, but he did promise not to do anything she didn’t want him to. “Master, it sounds more like a reward than a favor.” She said, smiling softly at him. <br><br>Brysen was right when he said that Lei was never properly cared for before, or at least not for a very long time. “It’s so kind of you to do it yourself, master.” She said, once again putting her hands on his chest. “There are special grooming salons for pets in town, usually that’s where masters take us to, but I am sure a massage would be far more pleasant when you do it yourself.” She said, and giggled softly, remembering that she’s been to a grooming salon several times too, before she’s been sold to Jago, and she enjoyed the experience greatly. In such places there professionals who gave baths, did massages, and did wonders with the fur to make it look healthy and shining. Actually, she wouldn’t mind visiting such a salon again in the future, but she did look forward for Brysen’s massage too.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Crimson Caine</strong> on <strong>11-04-2014, 18:11:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A strange look crossed Brysen’s features as Lei’s hand rested on his chest, her fingers pressing into his shirt.&nbsp; It was still new to him to have a woman touch him and it felt good, a warmth spreading through his chest.&nbsp; He could feel his heart beating harder in his chest as her words sank into him and brought a smile to his face.&nbsp; Her words though touched him even more deeply as she tried to cheer him up, to see him buoyed up from the darkness he could dwell in all too easily.&nbsp; “Perhaps you are my light to show me out of the darkness,” he murmured quietly, his eyes moving over her face.<br><br>A small laugh rippled from Brysen as the questions flowed from Lei about the airship and their day tomorrow.&nbsp; His bright eyes looked up at the airship above as she pointed to it, holding a hand to shade his eyes.&nbsp; “Well, not as big as that one.&nbsp; They are scout and reconnaissance ships so they are a bit smaller.&nbsp; But otherwise like that one, yes.”&nbsp; Reaching out a hand, he brushed his fingertips over her cheek and down her jaw before he leaned in closer to her, his eyes almost glittering in the light.&nbsp; “It is nothing like traveling by carriage.&nbsp; You can travel leagues in a single day so it is much faster.&nbsp; Sadly, we cannot touch the clouds but for you I will order them to try and get close enough so you can do so.”<br><br>An eyebrow was raised at her words about being a gift, a slight smirk on the general’s lips as he stood like a rock to shelter in front of her.&nbsp; His fingers reached out and tracked over her lips as his eyes grew intense and he leaned a little closer.&nbsp; “You are a gift, Lei, a very special one.&nbsp; And you have secured an alliance between us, so that is something.”&nbsp; Warmth spread throughout his body as he looked at her and felt things he’d not experienced in a long time, wishing he could tell her but afraid of scaring her off.&nbsp; He wanted to pull her into him and make her his completely, to show her there could be pleasure with her master.&nbsp; But honor and worry won out and he simply stood there enjoying her presence. <br><br>When she smiled at his request, he felt a bit of relief at having asked it not knowing how she might like the idea of him touching her body in such a way.&nbsp; “It is a reward,” he murmured softly.&nbsp; “For me at least.”&nbsp; A smile curled his full lips up at the corners as he breathed in the scent of the flowers intermingled with the scent of Lei.&nbsp; “You are mine.&nbsp; I do not let others take care of those things that are precious to me, valuable.&nbsp; And as your master I should know you fully should I know so this allows me to learn every inch of you.”<br><br>His hand slid along her jaw line so his fingers cupped the back of her head as his thumb brushed along her cheek, his palm cupping the side of her head.&nbsp; It would be wise to leave it at that but he found himself wanting to say more, to not hold himself back.&nbsp; “And I want to know all of you Lei,” he continued, his voice deep and husky.&nbsp; “I find this strange need to touch you, to hold you, growing inside of me.&nbsp; We’ve both had a hard time before we met so the way I see it, we should allow ourselves to indulge in what we have right here.&nbsp; I’ve never felt as good as I do right now and I want to linger in it, soak in it, and enjoy each other.&nbsp; It seems the least we are deserving, don’t you think.”<br><br>Before she could answer, Brysen leaned in and pressed his lips to hers to kiss her hard, a gentle murmur on his lips.&nbsp; His hand pulled her head tight as his other hand slid around her back and pulled her body against his, feeling the soft feline feel of her against his hard lines.&nbsp; His head tilted so his nose brushed to the side of hers as he savored her, fingers spreading over her slower back to slide on either side of her tail.&nbsp; “You are the best thing to come into my life in a long time,” he whispered, his eyes half shut.&nbsp; “I will always see you safe and take care of you.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Scars &amp; Souvenirs (elvenslave &amp; Crimson Caine)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>elvenslave</strong> on <strong>23-04-2014, 15:40:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Mmm, let’s not talk about darkness anymore, master.” Lei purred, shaking her head to emphasize her words. “You are fine now, there is no danger anymore, and… And I don’t like the darkness…” She said, blushing. Lei wasn’t a big fan of dark in general, this going from the simple physical darkness of the night, to the much more complex darkness of a broken soul. Although she possessed a perfect night vision like all felines, she didn’t felt secure while overwhelmed with darkness. But then, she was forced to spend so many time without any chance to see the daylight, that it was understandable she didn’t like it. “I don’t know if I can be the light, master, but I will do my best for you.” She said, swearing to herself that she would never let Brysen feel depressed if she can help it.<br><br>“Leagues in a single day?” She repeated his statement with a hint of disbelief in her voice. “Then it must go really, really fast! But how come people don’t get blown away from the deck if the ship goes so fast?” Lei remembered how it felt when she stuck her head out of the carriage while they were going to town; to her it was pretty fast already. She had a look of disappointment on her face when Brysen said that they couldn’t touch the clouds, but it was quickly replaces by excitement as soon as he promised her that they will approach them close enough to try touching them. “Soooo… Nobody ever touched a cloud before? I’ll be the first?” She asked with a giggle. That would be <em>something</em>: a Neko being the first to try something new. Maybe she would even start a new trend?<br><br>When Lei calmed down a bit from her pure, almost childish excitement, she became aware that Brysen has gotten dangerously close to her. It was not that she didn’t like him being this close, but that strange feelings she had while they were still inside the house, and that she tried to erase by going outside, suddenly came back. Once again she was flushed, a shiver went through her body, and she had a dangerous urge to kiss her master, to touch him, to get to know every inch of him… And once again she didn’t know whether it was a good thing or not. The easiest, and probably best solution to her problem would be asking her master directly, but she feared he would get angry at her for being really out of place. <br><br>When she was having all those troubling thoughts, Brysen was gently petting and caressing her, which ended up in engaging her in a passionate kiss. Although he took her by surprise, she began kissing him back almost immediately, with a matching passion. They broke the kiss only because both of them were of desperate need of air, but Lei kept clinging to him even then. “Yes, I think… I think we deserve it, master…” She shyly whispered her answer. She didn’t fail to notice that he said <em>we</em> instead of <em>I</em>. Could this mean that he wanted her to <em>learn every inch of him</em>, as he said it? Did he really want it to be shared? Brysen was so unusual for a master, otherwise he would already have used her, and showed her who commands. Yet he seemed to respect her, and treat her almost as his equal. She wasn’t his equal though, and she knew it well.<br>&nbsp;<br>“I… um… I am… precious?” She asked, looking at him with surprise. Nobody ever called her like Brysen just did. Truth be told, nobody even used her name for a long time, let alone called her precious or valuable. He also made her understand that he was possessive, she belonged to him, and no one but him would ever be allowed to touch her. She couldn’t be happier about that, but it seriously lowered the probability of her setting foot in a grooming salon ever again. <br><br>“Mhm, and will you brush my hair, do my nails, or make my fur shine, master?” She enumerated some of the services a grooming salon usually offers, looking at him with her most innocent eyes. Lei couldn’t really imagine her master with a nail file and a nail polish bottle in hand, or making her a new hairstyle. “And I want to be pretty for you!” She exclaimed. “And there is also all the people who will see me with you… What will they think of you if I don’t look good?” Well, maybe it wasn’t the nicest of things she could say, but she really wanted to get groomed by a professional by this point. Plus it would be a win win situation. “Oh, but didn’t you say something about a massage, my master?” She purred, cuddling up to him. “I really can’t wait…”
			</dd>
		</dl>
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