"Now then my young fellow, Arturo informs me it is an old enemy of the family that has my dearest brother captive. Poor Bernartro, I love him dearly but he will never learn and always get himself into mischief. Still he would normally get himself out of it but if Arturo has got involved then their must be more to the situation that he is letting me know. Still I am surprised Zenb has my brother and more surprised Arturo has not dealt with this himself. Still if he believes you are more than capable of rescuing Bernartro, who I am to argue."Belnox spoke with a calm dulcet tone his eyes though seemed distant.

"Right then I have a map detailing Zenb’s whereabouts plus information of what you may find when you get there. Any supplies you need then please take what you need for your journey. Arturo will settle the account so help yourself. Now I just need to got in to the back as I have a package also" Belnox gave a nod of his head and left the room, leaving Erihsehc to looked around. In all honesty there was not really much he needed. He picked up some food rations and a water pouch. Then he spotted some clothing and rifling though picked out some adventurers clothes that were in much better shape than his current attire.

He put the items on the counter so that Belnox could tally up the amount and waited for his return. He looked out of the shop window and spotted two men talking to the dwarf and from the glances towards the store he could only assume that his presence was not going unnoticed.

Belnox reappeared carrying a small bag. "Now then, I have to admit that I am a little perplexed as you look like you are travelling alone yet this bag is not for you. Arturo specifically instructed that it was for the young girl that was with you. Anyway I guess there is no harm handing it over, he did say that it would aid you in you days ahead and I for one would not question my brother’s motives, so here you are." Belnox handed over the bag. "Are you sure this is all you require I am sure I can rustle up some better food. I have some fresher meat and the wife makes some tasteful biscuits. I will be just a moment and then if you have any question I will more than happen to answer them if I can." Belnox disappeared once again.

Erihsehc took a peek into the bag. He was never one for possessions but the bag was full of assorted gems. Different sizes and colours and though he was no expert he was sure there was a tidy sum of money that could be made from these. Still they were not for him. They were meant for Sen but what did Arturo know about his companion. Should he be concerned? He closed the bag and put it into his pocket.

Belnox came back carrying a bag. "Right I have put into some good meat, cheese, bread, bisciuts and even some ale for your journey. Now is there anything else you require, any questions?"
Erihsehc nodded as he collected his new belongings. "Thank you for the food and clothing."

"Then fair well and bring back my brother, I miss him." Erihsehc saw the sadness behind Belnox’s eyes and mustering a smile he nodded his departure.

Outside the two men and the dwarf watched his every move as he made his way back to the stables.

Sen listens to the two men and the dwarf, but it seems they have stopped talking, so instead she listens to the conversation inside. Zenb... doesn't sound like a very friendly person to me she thinks.

When Sen hears about the bag for her, she too is slightly surprised. She knew that Arturo could see her, or otherwise perceive her, but she didn't expect he'd do much regarding her. She closes her eyes and strains her ears, listening for any indication of what might be in the bag.

clink clink A slight clinking sound as the things in the bag tap one another as it is moved. The sound has weight behind it, and so could only really be some sort of mineral. In an instant, Sen gueses wha's in the bag. Gemstones. Hmm, it seems Arturo knows a bit about sylphs. Sen reasons, knowing that in general sylphs such as she are drawn to pretty things that are light, such as gemstones and jewellery. Not to mention, there were other things that could be done with gemstones...

Erihsehc exits the building and heads towards the stable, the nosy three watching him. They definitely had some sort of intent, but whether it was good or ill remained to be seen. Sen reasons that she can catch up to Erihsehc quickly enough, so she stays behind, spying on the nosy three people, waiting for them to slip or otherwise show their intentions.

On the way back to the stables Erihsehc thoughts turned to Sen. He did not known much about other races especially the unusual so was unsure what to make of his companion. Then there was the bag of gems. He would leave them for her when he got to the stables so that she could investigate however he had no idea what she would make of them. He could only concluded that she would know what the gems were for and how best make use of them.

Being deep in thought he was unaware that he was being followed by the two strangers he had seen talking to the dwarf, Nasur. At he stables the young boy attending his horse was sitting and talking to his ride. "I always talk to them, keeps them calm." The boy got up and with a final pat said his goodbyes to his horse. "Take care of him mister; you got a good one there. He might be old but he’s strong. Full of heart." The boy left.

Erihsehc reached for the bag of gems and placed them so that Sen could pick them up. For the moment he could only assume that she was nearby and heard what Belnox said. He then looked at the map supplied. Zenb has a vast estate north of the city of Nyadesdew a large trading port on the east coast. He knew the area but never been to the port city. Still he did not need to visit the city so could either travel through or travel around. It would be a two day journey. Closing the stable door he took the clothes, trousers, and shirt and changed, discarding his old clothing.

He was now ready to leave so mounting his horse he set off unaware that he was being followed and not only by his invisible companion but by two strangers.

Two of the watchers quickly left after Erihsehc, and Sen had little doubt that they held ill intentions. Carefully picking up the bag that was an offering to her by Arturo, Sen quickly races and catches up with Erihsehc.

During her flight, Sen examines the stones in the bag. She was right; these could be used for... well, hopefully she wouldn't have to use them in that fashion, although it is possible. She places the bag within her own pouch, and flies alongside Erihsehc.

"Be careful; you are being followed." Sen whispers, her voice strong enough to hear over the horse's gallop, but soft and faint enough that only Erihsehc would be able to hear her, "It's the two men who were watching you alongside that dwarf; they've been following you since you left Kint."

The journey towards Nyadesdew would not be as treacherous as that getting to the Von Vliess estate. There would no muggers trail to deal with as the area they were visiting was well managed by the powerful landowners. The area was ripe which made great farming land and that in turn concealed the under handed dealing that the rich and powerful liked to play out in their sinister lives. It was also an area of the world that was mainly human populated. Yes you would still get traders, visitors from other races but none would settle in the area or indeed were allowed to settle in the area. This would make it easy to blend in, he was just another human trying to make his way and nobody else would take a second glance, not like when he was in Raongreddinn when he had the elite guard to watch out for.

It was mid afternoon and Erihsehc was casually riding trying to figure what he would do when he got to Zenb’s estate. It was then he felt a presence by his side. He should have known it would be Sen but for a briefest of moments a name came in to head, one that he had not heard in a long time; 'Jade’. It was strange as the name was so familiar but no face or remembrance of the person came with it.

Then came the softest and sweetest of voices that spoke into his ear and his thoughts once again turned to Sen. It was eerie that two names came to mind and with either no face to match them. Sen gave caution that he was being followed by two strangers. He did not doubt Sen so he needed to get more information about the two strangers and what better way than having an invisible companion to see what the two were up to.

"Sen," he spoke softly as if in to his horse’s ear "If you can hear me I need to know more about the men that are following. Are they carrying any weapons? Have they spoken about why they are following me?" Erihsehc left it that that, he did not want to exploit his new companion but any information would at least be to his advantage in the long term. He would need to rest soon, well his horse anyway but until he heard from Sen again he would carrying on travelling.

Sen nods, although Erihsehc cannot see her, and she slows down to better and fully inspect the two followers, as well as overhear anything they might be saying. She flies a bit higher, looking down upon the two, examining for metalic glints of weapons, but what she truly is after is any sort of conversation between the two; weapons could easily be concealed, but once motives were uncovered, the question of weapons becomes easily discernable. However, even as she hovers above the two, Sen remains wary. Alturo somehow was able to see her; she couldn't afford to risk being careless behind invisibility for the possibility that these two could also see through it.

Cire and Tlek had been following Erihsehc as instructed by Nasur. Soon though one would have to go on ahead and inform of there impending arrival while the other would need to make contact and so ensuring that Erihsehc stayed on track and kept out of harms way. The master would be extremely unhappy should anything go a miss and as both of them wanted to carry on living and get pleasure from the rewards for a successful mission it was enough for both of them to take this seriously.

Coming to a crossroads Cire nods to Tlek and he knew that it was time for the two to go their separate ways. Without saying a word Tlek geed his horse on and took off down a different route. He would not need to pass Erihsehc and it would ensure that he arrived ahead of them so that plans could be put into place. Cire looked ahead. He drew out his short sword and as he was not intending to fight he threw it to the side of the road, but just in case he kept hold of his dagger and a few of his shooting stars.
Just a short distance up the road Erihsehc had being travelling steadily and made good progress since leaving Kint. However it was time to rest and camp down for the night. Finding a suitable spot he had half hoped Sen would have returned with news on his pursuers. Still he also knew that if any danger was imminent then she would give some warning.

He let his horse graze on the grass for a while as he made camp. With the sun going down and a slight breeze on his face he lay resting against a tree and ate some of the food Belnox had provided. He even allowed himself the luxury of some ale and the sensation of being a free man. His eyes closed as the tiredness overcame him however not knowing how long he had been out he senses were awakened by the sound of a horse. He looked up to find a well dressed man bearing an overfriendly smile.

"Greetings friend, I am Cire a traveller. I wish you well and ask if I may share your camp fire. I bring some fine wine as my good intention?"
Erihsehc considered carefully as this was most likely one of his pursuers. The night air was getting chilly and not having heard from Sen, Erihsehc nodded to allow Cire to take a place by the fire.

Sen watches the two riders split up. One to go ahead, perhaps to lay a trap, one to stay behind, to ensure the 'prey's' coming. Sen thinks.

There would be time to catch the other later if needed; Sen's speed in flight easily could outmatch the speed of a horse. She decides to continue to tail the one, Cire as he would reveal himself. Cire tosses his sword away, but Sen isn't fooled, Very few mortals who wander the wild do so without any weapons. Sen thinks, Even I have my own.
"Greetings friend, I am Cire a traveller. I wish you well and ask if I may share your camp fire. I bring some fine wine as my good intention?"
Silent and hidden, even to those who may see her, Sen sneaks up, hovering just above the ground, to seemingly crouch in the air, just by Erihsehc. "He is one; the other, I believe gone ahead. I will talk about him later." Sen whispers, her voice hardly disturbing the air past Erihsehc, "Both, I believe armed. This one, I do not believe will strike."

She said little, for there was little time in which to speak, and as she stalks to the side, hidden in the shadows although untouched by the light, Sen raises her hand towards Cire, ready to strike even if neither of the others do.

Cire got down from his horse tied it up and sat down near the fire rubbing his hands in the process. Erihsehc through the flames of the fire could see him more clearly and noticed the scar on the side of his cheek. It did not go unnoticed.

"I got this little beauty while fightin’ in the Borliean War. Orc caught me off guard. I guess it could be worse, still livin’ aren’t I. Nasty campaign, how we lost I’ll never know." Erihsehc watched as Cire’s eyes looked blankly into the fire. On his travels Erihsehc had heard others talk about the war and the brutality that came with it. He could only imagine the horrors that Cire might have seen.

"So, you headin’ to the sea port of Nyadesdew? I hear that there is plenty of work and money to be made there. I hopin’ to set myself up there make somethin’ of me life instead of travellin’ all the time."
“I am heading that way.” Erihsehc kept his answer short and sweet, his tone reflecting a man of little conversation.

"Well how about that drink?" Cire smiled, opened up the bottle and offered it to Erihsehc.

"Thank you but I have already had ale and..."

"Say no more my good friend, don’t like to cross the grape with the grain myself. A toast then; a new tomorrow and may it bring good fortune for us both." Erihsehc did not say anything but did share in the toast. For a while they both just sat in silence while taking comfort from the warmth of the fire.

"Right it’s been a long day and got a busy day tomorrow so thank you again for the share of the fire. Goodnight friend." Erihsehc nodded and watched as Cire settled down.

He decided to stay lying against the tree so that he could keep an eye on Cire but the tiredness soon caught up with him and once again he drifted off to sleep.

"Ah you are coming around, that’s good. That was a nasty blow you took. Guess you must have a tough old head. Ariel’s gone off to get some water the others have split off in to two groups to pursue the bandits."

The body lying on the floor could not remember what had happened but looking up was a vision of sheer beauty and kindness, “Jade?”

“You remember me then.” She smiled “Just you rest the others will soon be back and I am sure Brastion will have a few choice comments. Why he and Vilerune can not get on for the sake of the group, the two of them test my patience at times.”

“Where am I?”

The voice became distant and vision blurred. Suddenly loud chatter could be heard.

“What do you mean Brastion’s gone?”

“Gone, one minute he was charging down a bandit the next...gone”
A noise suddenly woke Erihsehc. Cire was still sleeping but then the sound came again. It sounded like that of a snapping twig. “Sen” he said softly, “Is that you?”

Hands once so cared for lay dirty and broken, hair so well kempt lies dead and grey, armour religiously cleaned and polished adorns his body piecemeal, parts sold to keep him alive. The only thing that would keep anyone from thinking this man a beggar would be his eyes; anyone who gave him a second look, anyone that engaged him instead of throwing him the odd coin would see wisdom in those eyes, a wisdom born not of knowledge of one world but of two.

A keen ear had long since departed so Brastion had to cock his head like a dog if he thought he heard anything worthy of investigation. He rose from his near slumber his gnarled hand clasped tightly on sword hilt. The skill he once had was long since gone but he could still handle the odd raider or thief should the need arise.

“Who goes there”

Another? Not someone I saw before. Sen thinks to herself, silent in the air. She stealthily wanders over to Erihsehc.

"I do not know who this is." She murmurs simply.

Smoothly and soundlessly, Sen flies up a bit higher, trying to avoid direct contact with the new stranger.

The fire was dying down leaving only the few remaining embers to give out a small glow of light. Sen had informed Erihsehc that she did not recognise the stranger and even Cire who had been aroused by the late-night appearance of the stranger looked distrustful.

Although the darkness hid the features of the man Erihsehc could see the man had his hand clasped to his sword and ready to strike, which prompted Cire to reach for his dagger.

“Wait, we are only travellers resting for the night after a long journey. I am Erihsehc and this is Cire, we seek no trouble with you good sir. Please state who you are and your business?”

Erihsehc waited for a response while keeping an eye on Cire. Sen was right in not trusting his campfire companion and the sudden arrival of the stranger might hinder whatever plans Cire had for him. Erihsehc unable to communicate with Sen, was sure she would be in place should anything untoward happen and therefore he made the decision not to reach for his own weapon.

Brastion stumbled into the campsite barely keeping his balance as he saw steel. The figures danced before him in the light of the fire. Two shapes were dancing before his eyes and he couldn’t focus. He could have sworn he saw an old friend, one by the name of Kondrix, sitting smiling at him and then it was gone, replaced by two rather more unfriendly faces. It was all too much for the poor old soldier as he slumped near the fire unconscious.

Erihsehc watched as the stranger stumbled and then collapsed into the campsite.

“Put your dagger away Cire, this man needs help.” Erihsehc could see the face of the stranger more clearly, a face that was familiar but right now could not point to where he had seen this man previously. Even stranger was that Cire seemed to have the same expression towards the stranger and was standoffish towards him. Erihsehc instinct knew that he was no danger to him and therefore prepared to aid in any way he could.

Erihsehc went to the side of the stranger. Exhaustion had overpowered this weakened man so using the little aid he had went about to make him more comfortable. He could only wait for the strange to regain consciousness.

”There is a town just north of here. I will go and seek aid.” Cire gathered his belongings and left. Rather hurriedly.

“Sen, I am sure this stranger brings no harm towards us. I recognise him...but cannot recall where. I need you to follow Cire, I do not trust him, he gave the impression of recognising the stranger as well.” Knowing Sen would be close but unsure where he looked into the air.

“And Sen, be careful.”

Erihsehc stoked up the fire to generate warmth for the lifeless body and would wait until he regained consciousness.

Cire was travelling at speed towards Nyadesdew before taking a side road into a dense forest. Despite the darkness his haste did not lessen if anything increased. He knew where he was going. Yes he was taking a risk not staying with Erihsehc but the news he had would be of more importance to his employer. The man who stumbled into the campsite was being hunted and like Erihsehc did not realise their importance. The description was too close for it not to be the man he had been seeking and now after all these years the last two were in the grasp of his employer who could now complete his work. He was sure he would be rewarded for this and if all went well he could still meet up with the group with aid and carry on his pretence. But first he needed to get the news to its destination. We have him he thought, we have “Brastion” he say gleefully.

Sen could feel it. A feeling radiates from Cire she knows all too well. It is the feeling of glee that radiates from many bounty hunters, such as the ones who... no, she didn't want to remember them right now. Now she had to act.

If Cire thought he could lose her though the forest, even if he knew she was following him, he was sorely mistaken. The forest is the place where Sen's permanent home resides, and she has grown accustomed to flying there, swiftly if needed. Swerving through the trees with ease, she rushes in front of him.

"You seem to be in a hurry." She says, before unleashing the magical energy within her.

Suddenly, the whole area Cire is in and is running through is covered by multitudes and multitudes of silk, spider silk. It isn't normal spider silk either, for it is thicker, and far stronger.

"Humans are strange." Sen says, watching Cire struggle fruitlessly, with his speed getting him entangled before he could even react, "Some are kind, and gentle, but others... could hardly care less of bringing about pain, so long as they themselves benefit."

"Do you have anything you would like to say?" She asks, weaving her hands through the air, ready to cast a different spell.

Despite this confrontation, Sen doesn't appear to Cire.