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 Posted: Fri Jan 04, 2013 3:44 pm
Time: Late evening
Place: The Wardwood/Palisade
What's going on: Connor left to leave an offering at the Wardwood after he was done work for the day only to get lost in the wood and lose his offering accidentally. Noah finds the distraught Connor as he was leaving from giving his own offering and decides to help him find his way home.
In the beginning, it really sounded like it would be a good idea. Connor had heard certainly of wolves out in the wood and it scared him very much. Living in Palisade, he wasn't too far at all from the Wardwood. What if a wolf came to the city? He wasn't too sure what he would do. He lived on his own with his guardian Rosaire, so it was just the two of them. What he feared the most is that Rosaire might be out in his yard, only to have a wolf . . . no, he didn't even want to think about it! Even if it was a possibility, but it still scared him half to death. Though, it probably wasn't a good thing to be thinking about seeing how Connor had already ventured keep into the wood with Rosy at his side in search of where to place his offering. In all honesty, he didn't particularly have a clue to where he was going. He had only been in the woods once before . . . and once had been enough. But he did want to make sure he could at least have some protection.
However, as Connor was nearing where he figured was where he should give the offering, he heard the sound of faint howling off in the distance causing him to jump from being startled, instantly running off with Rosy right behind him. In the process though, what he had been holding had slipped right out of his arms and fell to the grass as he ran off without him even realizing . . . only until he had gotten pretty far away from where he had been. Connor glanced around frantically around him to see if he had dropped it just recently and he had even told Rosaire to help him look a little. But much to his dismay . . . "I'm so stupid . . ." he hissed between breaths as he panted slightly, mentally smacking himself for being so stupid as to be freaked out over a simple howl that hadn't even been near him at all. He felt Rosy nuzzle him gently in the side which made him smile softly as he reached over to pet her neck, letting out a soft sigh. "Maybe we should try and find our way out . . . come back another day and try again."
Just as he said that, another howl was heard off in the distance but this time it was a lot louder and it send chills straight down Connor's spine. "R-Rosy, let's go, n-now." Just as he was about to climb up onto her back, he noticed a few foot prints around the area they were standing in . . . foot prints that weren't human. In fact that looked like . . . "W-wolf foot prints . . ." he whispered under his breath as he backed up against his guardian, cringing as he looked around nervously to make sure there were none nearby. He wasn't even sure which direction to go.
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Posted: Fri Jan 04, 2013 8:51 pm
It was a really dangerous time to travel now. Noah Elwood, the police chief of Palisade, was travelling on horseback to the Wardwoods now after a long and strenuous day seeing that he left his hat off and bundle himself under his cloak to keep himself warm. He has been meaning to give an offering but then the commotion occurred . . . the wolves. “All these years . . . why now?” The older male questioned himself constantly like the plague in mind. But he heard the sound of a bird cawing from above that got him away from those thoughts. He looked up to see Avalloc soaring above in the night skies keeping an eye out for him and the little blue fairy wren flew over to perch on his shoulder which made him smile. “Don’t worry Mintha, after this we can go home and rest.” It makes the little bird chirp happily in delight and rubbed against his cheek which made the older male chuckle as he couldn’t help to rub her head gently. He would have to make this as fast as he can.
After his trek, he came across to the edge of the woods where he tied his horse up at a branch. He couldn’t help but to also tie up a protective charm on his saddle while he was away to protect him. Noah grabbed a lantern that was strapped to one side and two flint stones to scrape together in creating sparks that caught the oil lamp to light it up. Avalloc swooped down to perch on his unoccupied shoulder as his bright blue eyes scans his surroundings to see his surroundings as the older male tread cautiously in the woods. The woods now have a much darker feeling than before. He can sense it. Noah has to walk through carefully and having to use some of his tricks just to do so. Wrapped around his right wrist he has a piece of pure quartz crystal attached to a chain. But tied around the quartz is a tuft of grey fur; wolf’s fur to be precise. It’s his pendulum that he has constantly wrapped around his wrist and it is supposed to be used to divine the future. In this case, he fashioned his to divine the future of any presence of wolves. So far . . . it has been keeping him alive.
The pendulum swung. Noah’s sharp gunmetal eyes grew narrow as he stared off to one direction to where it was pointing to see what was over there. And the air had captured the sound of a howl. Mintha was terrified and hid closely to Noah to cuddle more against his neck while Avalloc . . . seemed to be more excited. “Wolf!” He spoke, after learning the word around Palisade and it made him glare at the bird. “Shut it Avalloc!” The Chief spat at him and he clenched on to his lantern as he head off to the direction with his familiar flying ahead of him to vanquish the wolf. He saw the footprints on the forest ground but what he saw soon has caught his curiosity. Lowering the light to get a better look, he saw the foot prints of what it seems to be a pair; a human male and . . . a deer? Avalloc however, found them, as he sat on a branch far up hide himself from their sight as he gave a loud string of caws to get Noah’s attention. “Dear god, there’s people out here at this time!” He hurried, hoping that the ones who are here are safe.
He ran through Wardwood, Mintha now flying at his side for she knew she will fall off his shoulder at his speed. “Hello! Is anyone out there?” The Chief called out to see if maybe the person will call out in response. But that won’t be the case for he appeared right in front on who appears to be a terrified young man who has his back against a black doe as Noah held up the lantern to see them. And it made Noah relieved tremendously to see that he’s safe. “Why are you doing out here? It’s dangerous!” Noah panted out after the running. After he collected himself, he lifts a hand to comb back his long black hair as he steps forward to see the young man as he lifts the lantern up to see him better. “Are you all right though? You’re not harm?” His eyes scanned him quickly seeing that he seemed to be fine which was excellent to see. “Come now, we need to leave the woods now for it’s not safe to stay here any longer.” They both heard the howling earlier which was proof enough. It made his avian companions thrilled to hear as Avalloc flew down from where he was hiding to perch on his shoulder and Mintha on to the blonde stranger’s shoulder too; chirping to let him know that it’s okay.
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Posted: Sat Jan 05, 2013 3:28 am
Connor thought about just heading in a random direction with Rosy, away from where the howls had been coming from, but he knew that it would probably be a terrible idea. Any canine of any sort absolutely scared him as he had many bad experiences with them in the past . . . so naturally he had developed a fear of them. As a boy he had been bitten by a dog at such young age and so he tried to stay away from them as much as possible. What made it worse though was that wolves were a lot larger than a normal dog and so . . . why he came out to the woods, he honestly did not know. He knew he was going to regret it later when he first decided to come here, and oh boy did he regret it so much. He really just wanted to be safe at home and possibly come back during the day or something tomorrow if it was possible, but that was highly doubtful. The bakery was always so busy that he had no free time during the day whatsoever unless it was a very rare day where it was slow. Even when it was closed for the day people got upset, so he didn't want to upset anyone again by closing down for even just a few hours during the day.
In the distance Connor could have sworn he heard more noises, but this time it wasn't a howl. Instead it sounded like it was a bird cawing loudly . . . and very close too. It scared him to the very bone, his eyes wide with fear as he searched for where exactly the bird was, only to see a pair of ominous glowing blue eyes off in the distance in the tree branches, freezing completely. Oh god, what was that? What it just a stupid bird trying to scare him? God he hoped so . . . and soon it proved to be true (or so he was continued to hope) as he heard someone calling out from the darkness, soon seeing that there was a light from what he assumed to be a fire growing closer and closer to him, soon revealing an older looking man approaching him, seeming to be out of breath. Connor stared at him with wide blue eyes, incredibly confused as to what was going on. What was this man doing out there? Getting a better look at him, it kind of made sense to him now—he must have been a police officer . . . or something anyway, judging by his clothing. His rather funny looking clothing. But, from what he could see . . . this man was very handsome and he found himself staring as he watched him comb his black hair back, completely ignoring each question he asked him, like what he was doing out here, if he was alright, and if he was not harmed. He couldn't help but stare and think to himself that a man as handsome as he was truly didn't suit such a ridiculous uniform.
After a few seconds though Connor finally snapped out of his gaze (with the help of Rosaire nudging him in the shoulder) and looked back up into the stranger's eyes, blinking a couple times. "I . . . was just—" he started to say, only to pause as he noticed the bird with the glowing blue eyes he had seen earlier fly down and perch right on the man's shoulder, only to have a smaller bird perch onto his own shoulder. He looked over at her—well he assumed it was a her . . . it looked like a her—and he couldn't help but smile as he heard her chirp just before he felt a body brush against his side and cut between him and the other man, staring up at him with an almost disapproving look (or as disapproving as a deer could manage) just before she started sniffing at the dark haired man, nudging his hands a bit before she stepped back, staring a moment longer before stepped back behind Connor, who could only laugh softly. "Sorry about her . . . she doesn't really warm up to people fast," he explained as he reached behind him to pat her neck gently before looking back at the stranger. "Um . . . I just lost my way, I was just leav—" Another howl was heard from around them—a much louder one than the last two. Instantly Connor jumped and grabbed onto the policeman's arm, clinging to it for dear life as he screwed his eyes shut tightly, his breathing quickening. Oh god, oh god, oh god . . . he was going to die here wasn't he?! He wasn't going to make it out alive at all, they were both going to die! Connor tightened his grip tightly. "I-I live in Palisade, l-let's go, like you said. N-now." While it was probably weird and maybe a little awkward for the other for Connor to be clinging to him like this, he couldn't help it. He was scared, plain and simple. Just as he thought about letting go though since he didn't want it to be awkward another howl echoed around him and that only caused him tighten his grip even more. "Please, can we . . ." Oh how he wished he had stayed home.
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Posted: Sat Jan 05, 2013 5:22 pm
Noah stared at the young man for quite some time when he held the lantern up to see him clearly. He seemed to be at a daze or something; just staring at him. It did made him worry for a moment but the police chief couldn’t help but to admire those bright, icy blue eyes although they are full of fright as well as the dust of freckles across the bridge of his nose and cheeks. He seemed to be a young man from his observations but then he was cut off when the black and gray doe walked in between them. Noah took a couple of steps back as he was being smelled by the doe and even his hands were nudged away. It was still a sight to see a person with a guardian these days, and this one is a strong guardian to the blonde which was good to see. “It’s quite all right. It’s certainly not the best of places to meet new people after all.” Noah is an understanding man. Who would a person trust in meeting in a dark forest?
He understood about the stranger’s predicament now as he was just lost. But just as he was about to speak, another howl chilled the air around them. It had startled Avalloc as he cawed loudly with his wings spanned out and Mintha who hid at the crook of the stranger’s neck. And almost instantly, he felt his arm being clung too by the blonde haired male as he looked down to see him pale white and terrified. They have to leave, now. Then another howl lingered in the air and Noah moved the lantern to be held in his other hand that the blonde haired male is clinging on to and grabbed on to his cloak to cover the male as well as their light so the wolves won’t see them; bringing the man closer to him while is looking out. He could feel the pendulum swinging to a more specific direction and they need to be far away from that side. “Avalloc, go ahead and guide us out now.” With that, the Rook took flight into the air. Noah let go of his cloak and reached to grab his hand to pull him away from his arm since they he can’t run well like that. “Come with me! Run!” He stared down at the man so fiercely and tugs at his arm to pull along.
They ran. Hands held tightly to each other in fear of losing the other as they ran behind Avalloc in the sky and his glowing eyes. He looks behind to see if the blonde haired male is okay as well as his doe companion as they ran. If he felt the blonde tripping over and falling over the cold winter’s ground, he will hold on to his hand tightly and helps him back up, encouraging him to continue since they’re so close. And they are! The edge of the woods is just up ahead where Noah can hear and see the Gypsy Vanner stallion neighing at him. “You can ride on the doe yes?” He said to him. “Go on ahead to the main road. I’ll be right behind you.” He finally let go of his hand and gave him a push to go further without him for the Chief wants to make sure that they weren’t followed as he has his hand on the hilt of his sword. It was a crazy thing for him to do but he wasn’t even thinking just how crazy it was. He was thinking that he has to protect that man.
When he noticed that they weren’t followed, Noah turned off the lantern and strapped it on his horse’ saddle and stepped his foot in the stirrup and swing his leg over. Avalloc flew down to perch on his shoulder just when Noah gave his horse a kick and hurried to catch up to the blonde haired male to be by his side feeling completely exhausted after everything today. “Are you all right?” Noah questioned the young man in hopes he is okay or at least in one piece after that ordeal at Wardwood. He could see that Mintha isn't as her little talons are clinging still to his shirt. Hopefully it will remind him not to go there at night anymore unless he is with someone else.
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Posted: Sun Jan 06, 2013 5:29 am
It was a relief that Connor seemed to be okay with how Rosaire had acted towards him, though he would be sure to scold her for it after. But then again it would most likely be forgotten about as he suddenly heard that bird cawing loudly again and the little tiny bird that was on his shoulder hiding right in the crook of his neck. It felt weird, but at the same time it made him feel a little safe. What made him feel even safer though was the feeling a cloak cover him suddenly. Connor looked up at the brave stranger, finding himself blushing deeply as he was pulled close to his body. Honestly he had never been this close to another man like this before in his life . . . especially not a man as handsome as this stranger was. He could feel his heart beating fast and it confused the blonde so much. Was it from being so close to him? Or was it just fear and pure adrenaline? He had a feeling it was the latter, but who knew?
Running wasn't one of Connor's fortes. Honestly most of the time he usually just rode upon Rosaire's back rather than walking anywhere as it was a lot easier and faster to travel. A few times while they ran hand in hand with each other Connor felt himself trip a few times when he was glancing behind him to make sure Rosy was behind them (which she was), also almost considering against the man if they could slow down a little but he knew that wasn't going to be an option since the possibility of wolves coming after them was high. It was hard though because he had slipped and fell to his knees a couple times, feeling his hands getting scraped up a little and stinging from the small little pebbles that were scattered around. He was pretty sure that even his clothes, at his knees, were dirtied and possibly ripped but now wasn't the time to worry about that. It was nice though, that this handsome stranger really was set on helping him get home. Even if he ran a little too fast for him. Upon reaching the edge of the woods, Connor at first was confused as to why the man was asking him if he could ride on the doe's back, but he realized why when he told him to go ahead on the main road, which he quickly nodded. "O-of course," he murmured, still a little out of breath as he went to check Rosy over a couple times to make sure she was okay. It seemed like she was and so she leaned down a little for him before he climbed on top of her back, gently rubbing her neck before she started along the main road, heading back in the direction of Palisade quickly. Neither of them wanted to be anywhere near the woods anymore apparently.
Of course Connor did realize that there was the small little blue bird still clinging to his shirt as they walked, which he felt a little bad. He reached over and gently pet her head with his index finger, frowning softly. "It's okay, little birdy," he whispered to her just before he heard the sounds of hooves along the gravel behind him, glancing to his side just in time to see the stranger come up beside him. He stared for a moment, finding a faint blush creeping onto his cheeks once more as he looked away and gave a nod. "Y-yeah, I'm fine. Just a few little scrapes and cuts I think, but it's nothing I can't take care of myself," he said as he examined his hands, picking at them for a moment before cringing slightly, instantly stopping. He just now checked his knees, seeing that there was a few rips in his breeches, letting out a deep sigh as he saw that the stockings he wore as well were completely dirtied. Great . . . he had just watched both of them too. Oh well, nothing he could do. He looked back over at the other man, giving him a friendly smile. "Are you alright?" He felt the need to ask, just in case. "T-thank you for . . . helping me by the way. Since I know you didn't have to, but you did anyway." Which still really amazed Connor. "O-oh! Um . . . I'm Connor, by the way. Connor Whitlock," he said as he extended his hand out to him through the rather short distance between them. "It's a p-pleasure to meet you." It was probably a good thing to know names at least, right? Although the more he thought about the situation, about how they were riding together, alone under the starry sky with the light from the moon shining down on him, the more embarrassed he felt. Dear god . . . was this really happening?
It was at least an hour or so worth of a ride to get back to Palisade and to where Connor lived, which was the opposite side of the city from the woods. It was a rather quiet ride with a little small talk here and there but other than that, there wasn't really much that needed to be said. Although, for some odd reason, Connor couldn't help but feel a little sad. He felt . . . silly, too. Silly because thinking about the fact that his savour was probably just going to leave right away and forget about him and it made him sad. But, it was understandable and Connor would be able to live with it . . . maybe. Rosaire came to a stop in front of Connor's home, which was when he climbed down from her and looked toward the other man, giving a soft albeit sad smile. "Well . . . this is it. T-thank you for helping me home too." He found himself looking away and averting his gaze, a faint blush on his cheeks again. This time it was more noticeable since they were no longer in the dark woods. "I-I really appreciate it. I think I would have been lost for days if you hadn't come . . ." Oh how true that was.
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Posted: Mon Jan 07, 2013 2:03 pm
It was a rough night for everyone to deal with. Little Mintha was clinging on to the blonde male’s shoulder the entire time that the little blue wren was completely flustered and in a daze. But feeling the little petting on her had made her feel very happy as she puffed up her feathers and chirped. It made Noah happy to see that she’s doing well as well as seeing that the man is treating her nicely. The older male nodded as he learned the condition of the young man as his eyes glanced over to see that his clothes are ruined. He felt bad seeing how he is but Noah couldn’t walk so casually in the woods to get out. But his eyes glanced back up to see the friendly smile on his face as he asked him if he was all right as well and he respond with a tired sigh. “I’m fine but I’m merely exhausted more than ever.” He really was after running in the forest with shoes that is not meant for that, let alone for this season as well.
A small smile was seen on his face, hearing how grateful the man was for helping him in an almost stuttering voice which only made him smile a little more. He was happy to learn his name for he wasn’t sure of how to address him as he rode up to be more at his side and he firmly grabbed his hand in a strong handshake to him. It only made him chuckle in response. “Well met Connor. My name Noah Elwood and it’s a pleasure to meet you as well.” Honestly, he was a little surprised that he doesn’t know him if he lives in Palisade unless it’s at a completely different part of the city he doesn’t patrol in from time to time. Then again he’s mostly at the station for the entire time. “And it was no trouble at all Connor. It’s my job to protect those in need after all and I wanted too.” He suddenly heard a few chirps from Mintha that made Noah chuckled in response. He whistled at her to which she almost sang a small song and it almost sounds that they’re both singing until Mintha had enough and returned to the crook of Connor’s neck to keep herself warm and Noah sighs.“Pardon me, but my companion was upset that I haven’t introduced her to you. Her name is Mintha. And this Rook here is Avalloc. Say hello.” He glanced over to the black bird who perched on his shoulder; looking at Connor with those bright blue eyes. “Hello!” Avalloc spoke in much likeness of Noah’s voice which it might have spooked Connor a bit. But he was just trying to be friendly to him or else Noah will strangle the bird.
Along the travel to Palisade it was rather quiet but pleasant in the cold night. He followed Connor in silence, all except for the sound of hooves and horse shoes clicking on the cobble stone. And then their journey has ended when they arrived in front of Connor’s home where Mintha gave a little snug against him and flew up to nestled on the horse’s head to keep herself warm the moment she felt him moving off the doe. His stern gunmetal blue eyes caught the smile on the blonde’s face, seeing the small hint of sadness that is veiled behind it as he wondered why he’s sad but he gave a small nod. “You’re very welcome Connor . . .” A dark brow arched up when he caught the blush on his freckled cheeks and it made him smile softly in response. “Please, there’s no need for so much gratitude. You could have found your way out.” Noah was being a kind gentleman to the young man but then he noticed how much his two companions are shivering in the cold. Even he’s starting to feel the chill underneath the wool cloak as it seemed that they’ve been out for far too long.
“Pardon me but . . .” Noah spoke at first before he swung his leg over his horse to step down. Avalloc flew up for a moment only to land on the saddle as he took a few steps closer to the young man. “If it’s too much trouble . . . is it possible to let us rest for a moment? I’ve been outside all day and evening and I’m cold right down to the very bone. And I know that Avalloc and Mintha are probably even—” And at the moment, both Avalloc and Mintha caw and chirped at him, instantly agreeing that they’re very cold from the weather seeing that the little fairy wren flew over to Connor’s shoulder and Avalloc over to Noah. Well, nothing else needs to be said as Connor has three freezing from the cold before him and hopes to have at least some time to rest inside a warm home. “Although, I do wonder about something, why did you venture to the Wardwoods?”
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Posted: Mon Jan 07, 2013 9:01 pm
It was a relief to hear that the brave stranger was alright but it wasn't understandable that he was exhausted. He didn't doubt that the man had a long exhausting day since he seemed to be police man from what he could see under his cloak after all. He could only imagine just how hard of a job it was, seeing how they had to patrol the entire city from what he had heard and seen. A wide smile found its home on Connor's lips as Noah introduced himself, glad to finally know his name. Noah . . . that was a nice name. And it really suited this handsome man as well. He pulled his hand back before finding himself blushing a little hearing that Noah had wanted to help and protect him. That had been the nicest thing anyone had ever done for him in a long time. He hadn't had the best past few weeks in his life lately since it had been very stressful so it was nice for Noah to do this.
Connor snapped out of his thoughts the moment he suddenly heard the little bird on his shoulder chirping, blinking when he heard Noah whistle back at her and then she seemed to whistle back only to soon stop and return to the crook of his neck which made him smile softly as he looked down at her, lifting a hand again to gently stoke her feather with his index figure before looking back at Noah as he heard him sigh. His eyes shifted towards the black bird on the man's shoulder, his widened slightly when it said hello to him and it even sounded similar to Noah. That was . . . freaky. But he shrugged it off and smiled, setting his hand back down on Rosy's neck. "Well, it's nice to meet all three of you," he said warmly just as he heard a quiet grunt from Rosaire, knowing very well that she wanted to be introduced as well which caused Connor to laugh softly. "This is Rosaire . . . although I call her Rosy," he told him, giving her a gentle pat. She at least seemed to be on her best behaviour right now, unlike how she was earlier, back in the woods. Perhaps she realized she was in trouble for acting like that, which was actually kind of a relief because he really didn't like scolding her but sometimes he had to.
It was strange hearing Noah tell him that there was no need for so much gratitude when really Connor thought it was very necessarily. He couldn't thank the man enough. Not even a thousand thank yous would be enough. "O-oh no . . . trust me, I probably would have been lost for days," he said with a soft, nervous laugh because he knew it was very true. He had a poor sense of direction and so to go into the Wardwood was a terrible idea, especially at night when he didn't have any source of light. Noah was his saviour and he would always be grateful towards him no matter what. So when suddenly Noah got down from his horse and asked him if it were possible to let them rest inside for a moment since he was very cold, along with Mintha and Avalloc, Connor couldn't say no. He would feel bad if he said no anyway, so all he could do was give a warm but slightly nervous smile. "O-oh! Of course . . . I wouldn't want you three to freeze or something. Come in," he said as he started to lead Rosy into his yard, although he came to a sudden stop as he heard Noah ask why he had ventured into the Wardwood, a low, soft sigh escaping his lips. He should have assumed that he would ask that. "I'll . . . tell you inside," he said as he continued on. Rosy was usually free to roam around wherever or even come inside if she wanted, but she usually chose against that and instead stayed out in his backyard where there was a nice little hut back there for her to stay warm in during the cold winter nights.
Connor let Noah and his two feathery companions go inside first before he stepped in behind them, shutting the door as he made his way over to his kitchen, though he stopped and turned toward Noah, gesturing over towards his living room. He didn't have a very big house since it was just him living here alone, but it was good enough for him. It was nice and cosy which was what he really enjoyed about it. "I'll make some tea . . . you can make a fire as well if you would like to warm up a little more. There should be some flint near the fireplace," he called to Noah before he left to go to his kitchen where he first went to clean up his hands a little since there was a little bit of blood on them and they did sting a little as he scraped the pebbles and other small stones out of the scratches, quick to bandage them up after before he began to prepare tea for the two of them. It was just basic Earl Grey Tea although it was Connor's favourite and so he hoped that Noah liked it as well. He also sliced two pieces of sponge cake that he had made only a few days ago for himself, figuring that Noah might like some. He also grabbed a few berries from his fridge for Mintha and Avalloc since he was sure they would enjoy something to eat as well, along with a dish of water each for them. He placed everything on a tray so he could carry it all at once, making his way back over to his living area and placing the tray down on the table, pouring the two of them a cup of tea before he sat down, letting out a soft sigh. He was silent for a moment before he remembered the question that Noah had asked him outside. "Oh . . . I ventured to the Wardwood because, w-well . . . I heard about the wolves and everything, s-so I thought that it might be a good idea to leave an offering . . . for protection. I had to work all day and I couldn't leave since it was very busy, so I just thought that I would go after I was done and be home before it was too dark out, b-but I guess not . . ." A soft sigh escaped from him as he looked down, biting on his bottom lip. "S-so I am very lucky that you were out there as well . . . although I wonder too, why you were out there?"
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Posted: Wed Jan 09, 2013 2:38 pm
For a moment, he was a little concerned that Avalloc might have frightened him a bit due to his impression skills and mimicking his voice. But it was for the best to know about that talent of his now and not later on. It would really frighten him more and confusing if the cruel bird tries to play a joke with him some time soon. It is a twisted hobby of his and it only got the man further into trouble as he tries to fix everything back to normal. His stern gunmetal blue eyes look down to see the Guardian as Connor introduced her to him and Noah smiled with a small nod of his head. “Well it’s nice to make your acquaintance Rosaire.” He was still amazed on seeing a Guardian this close. Not many people have them in Palisade except for a rare few people. And they certainly are guardians remembering of how she stepped to be in between them to protect Connor from him. They’re such fascinating and beautiful creatures.
Noah was so glad to hear the invite. He was just so tired and needed a moment to rest before going home since his home is quite far from here. Before entering, he tied up his horse’s reins so he would stay put and seeing his horse deciding to munch on some of the grass. He followed the young man inside of his home and he looks around a bit seeing how lovely it is despite its small size which was perfectly fine. The older male went to the living room where he was guided to. Avalloc flew off from his shoulder and went to the small table where he hopped around a bit and watched Noah steadily. Of course he would start a fire. The man was frozen down to his bones and he picked up the flint that Connor said where they were located and scraped the two together in making sparks. When the fire was made, he poked the wood around a bit with the fire poker to make the flames grow bigger and filled the room with a warm glow. The police chief then sent to sit down as he tried to make himself as comfortable if possible with the ridiculous police uniform on. The cloak was taken off and draped over the armrest of the sofa and he unbuttoned a few buttons of his frock coat just so he is able to breathe better and to feel the heat of the fireplace hitting his bare chest. His fingers combed through his long black hair and brought it over his shoulder, ending it with a long winded sigh as he finally has a chance to rest as anyone can see just how worn out he is by the look of his face which he hides his fatigue fairly well in public.
Hearing the footsteps coming closer, he glanced up to see the blonde haired male returned now with a tray of tea and cake. He wondered how the young man knew about his fondness for sweets. And it was very kind of him to bring out berries and water for Avalloc and Mintha as the two flew over to pick at the berries. “Ah, thank you very much.” Noah said as he went first to grab the plate of the sponge cake only to have it on his lap for now as he look over at Connor as he explained himself about his reasons to go to Wardwood. And it made sense to him. The young man wanted to leave an offering for protection but time had slipped away from him. It only made him smile a little bit hearing him sigh and also the question back to him. “Well, also for the same reason as well. I was fairly as well in the day and tried to go and give my offering but evening slowly passed . . . and then I met you.” The smile grew warmer as the golden glow on his face from the fire.
He cut a small piece of the sponge cake with his fork and stabbed the piece to be brought up to his lips and ate it. And his stern eyes widen as he tasted the sweet and the lightness of the cake and looked over at Connor, still surprised, as he licked his lips clean from any crumbs. “Connor . . . this is absolutely delicious. Where on earth did you purchase this cake?” Noah is serious on buying one for himself to eat when he’s off from work. But he would have to hide it from his two feathery companions in fear that they might pick it to mere crumbs and have two very chubby birds. Although . . . it is a hilarious thought to imagine Avalloc chubby. He won’t certainly go off to pull any tricks with his extra weight. “But . . . if you still want some protection for the night, I could make a ward for your home.” It is not in his nature to perform such things at stranger’s home except if they are hedge witches or within his magic domain. But he wanted to do something to protect him further from the wolves and any malicious spirits. They were running about madly in the woods so it might have upset the spirits. “I’ve learned a couple of things of what some of the citizens here are doing during this time and it’s not bad to try any sort of way to protect oneself.”
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Posted: Tue Jan 15, 2013 9:31 pm
Avalloc had frightened Connor a little bit but it was something he could easily get over. Just like how meeting so many new faces today was something Rosaire would get over as well. Besides she didn't have to worry about dealing with them anymore since they were all safe and sound inside Connor's home and she could finally rest after a stressful day out in the cold. Connor did wish she could come inside but it was just too much of a hassle and there was nowhere for her to sleep at all. But she seemed fine being outside. Still it wasn't really anything Connor worried about right now as he sat in the living room with Noah, and his two feather companions. It was quite a shock when he had come back with his tray of tea and treats to see Noah there having stripped down his clothing a little. He found himself staring at Noah yet again, absolutely astonished by his handsome beauty. He couldn't believe how handsome this man was . . . he could see that underneath the frock coat Noah wore, he had a very nice—stop, stop, stop! Connor mentally screamed at himself to stop thinking such inappropriate thoughts about a man he had just met, quickly doing his best to push them out of his head. He should not be thinking about that sort of thing already . . .
Connor managed to completely snap out of his thoughts when Noah finally spoke up about the reason as to why he had been in the wood. It didn't surprise him to hear that Noah had been out doing the same, but what didn't expect him was when he mentioned that he had met him . . . with such a warm smile on his face. His face flushed a deep, dark red as his eyes widened, staring at Noah like an animal caught in the under a lamp post doing something bad. All he could do was stare at him, even watching Noah as he cut into the sponge cake. Suddenly he felt nervous since he wasn't sure if the man would like the cake or not. How embarrassing would it be to give cake to the man and have him not like it? However . . . much to his surprise, Noah looked like he really did enjoy it. He stared at the cake on the other man's lap for a moment before his eyes shot back up to his face, blinking as he heard him saying that it was delicious, and then ask where he had purchase the cake. That made Connor laugh a lot more than he should have. As soon as he composed himself, he gave a smile. "Thank you very much . . . however I didn't purchase it anywhere," he said with a soft chuckle. "I . . . I made it myself, actually. I own a bakery not too far from here that my father used to run. I took over it a few years ago," he told him, feeling oddly happy that he did like it. Most people never got the chance to tell him his baking was amazing unless they came back to purchase something else him from. He took a few more bites from his own piece of cake before suddenly looking up as if he had just remembered something very important. "Oh! Noah . . . well, if you want . . . if you really like it that much . . . I could give you the rest of the cake to bring home with you? I'm the only one hear to eat it anyway, and I don't want it to go to waste or anything . . ." He had a feeling Noah could enjoy it more than he could.
Noah happily finished off his cake and also finished most of his tea, although he nearly choked on the tea a little when Noah suggested that he could offer him some protection at night. That . . . that did not sound right. It hadn't processed in his mind that he had said that he could ward his home, only panicking on the inside as he heard him go on about how he had learned a couple things from some of the citizens here on what to do during this time, and that it's not bad to try any sort of way to protect oneself. Was he suggesting that he . . . stay the night . . . in his bed? WITH HIM?! Connor stared in horror now for a moment, only now just realized what he had meant . . . protect his home. Not him. Well, him, but also his home. Connor fumbled with the tea cup in his hand as he quickly reached forward to place it down, giving a low bow as he set his plate down on the tray as well. "I-I would very much appreciate that!" he said keeping his head bowed before looking up at him, giving a smile, his face still beet red. Dear god, what was with him tonight? He just . . . he needed to clear his head. Seeing that Noah was also done with his tea and cake, he grabbed his plate and cup, setting them on the tray and standing, tray in hands. "I'll um . . . I'll get you another piece and some more tea, okay?" he said with a friendly smile, quickly hurrying away.
In his kitchen, he set the tray down only to desperately grasp the counter, breathing in and out deeply. Oh what was going on . . . What was wrong with him?! He wasn't even sure why he was like that . . . Usually he was good at paying attention to every single word someone said. But this man . . . this Noah . . . There was something about him. Was it because—no, no. Of course not. That was silly to think. There was no way someone could act like this just because he was absolutely smitten by another man's appearance. That was absolutely ridiculous! But, even so . . . then why? Why was he so flustered over something stupid like this? It was like . . . he was bewitched by the man's very presence and only that alone. But that sound ridiculous. Maybe he just . . . maybe he had gotten sick from being out in the cold for so long? And he was a little delusional! That must have been in . . . maybe he just had a fever. Really, anything to help him understand what this feeling was would be nice. It frustrated him so much that he couldn't help but let out a loud groan of frustration. "God damn . . . !" Why did this have to happen now of all times?
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Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2013 7:53 am
For a moment, Noah felt a little insulted after hearing just how much the young blonde haired male ha laughed at him. He doesn’t know what could be funny when he was asking about the cake. But hearing his answer, he couldn’t believe that Connor was the one who made the cake. Apparently he is a baker and owner of one that is somewhat close by from here. It was at that sudden moment that Noah felt even hungrier for cake and sweets. It was probably the stern man’s only weakness. “That sounds amazing Connor. I bet your father must be very proud of you for taking over the business.” Any father would. He knows his own father was proud of his son as Noah joined the force and promoted up to Chief when the old man retired. “Maybe I’ll come by to see you at work one day.” Well, it would be more than one day. Perhaps it’ll be every day to get a pastry or two.
The next thing, though, had surprised the older male hearing that Connor will give him the entire sponge cake to take home. It was such a generous offer seeing the slight shock look on his face but he smiled none the less. “Are you sure? Well if that’s okay with you . . . thank you so much Connor.” He knew though that he would have to hide the sponge cake from his birds because for a rook and a fairy wren, they will devour the entire thing in mere minutes. They have an incredible appetite for such small birds it amazes the man constantly. But for now, he would just enjoy his slice of the cake before his feathery companions are finished with their berries and water as he cuts a small piece of the cake and ate it happily. It felt nice to relax after a stressful day like this.
But apparently it’s a different night for Connor; observing his expressions at the corner of his eye. He seemed to be . . . nervous. The police chief wondered why. From the beginning he saw that Connor might be a nervous man or perhaps shy. But now, seeing him fumbling with his tea and making that deep of a bow when he set his plate down on the tray across from him he can really see that something serious might be wrong with him. All that the older male did was staring at him and gave a small smile when the young man had finally lifted his head up to see him. Connor was quick to take his plate and tea and placed them on the tray to be taken to the kitchen to give him a second serving. But he seemed to appreciate the offer that Noah is willing to do to ward his home to protect him which he was glad. Yet before he could say anything, Connor just ran off into the kitchen leaving the male confused. “Thank . . you?” That was all he said as he sat back in his seat utterly bewildered.
Mintha flew up to perch on his shoulder after she finished eating and chirped softly; wanting to know what was going on. “I have no idea . . . maybe he’s trouble by an evil spirit?” He questioned the little blue bird who just sat there on his shoulder as she puffed up her feathers. Noah has no idea at all as he sat on the couch for a little while and played with his quartz pendulum that was tucked away in his coat’s sleeve. It swung back and forth. His eyes gazed upon the shimmering stone for a while in thought on what to do until he finally thought that he really can’t be sitting here all night when there’s a troubled man not too far away. He quickly sat up which almost frighten Mintha as she dug her small talons in to the very fabric and Noah slipped the quartz stone away in his sleeve. Upon reaching over to the kitchen, his pace slowed down when he heard the sudden groan from him which made the man frowned. “What could he be groaning about?” He thought to himself. Maybe it’s because Connor is fed up with him staying at his home for a little too long? It must have been a long day for him and even longer when what happen at Wardwood. Maybe he wanted to sleep but Noah decided to barge in and rest for a bit before going out. That made Noah very sad to just think about it as he took in a deep breath and walked around the corner to see him with a concern look in his steel blue eyes. “Connor, are you okay? Is there something wrong?”
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Posted: Mon Feb 04, 2013 10:17 pm
Connor felt terrible for running off on Noah like that but he just couldn't help it. Honestly, he felt absolutely sick right now and so tired too after a long day, but he had a feeling that the sick feeling was only because his stomach felt like he had butterflies fluttering around it in. It was . . . a very strange feeling but he could not help it at all and it made him feel terrible because he had a feeling that Noah was probably getting the wrong idea from it. But there was nothing he could do about it . . . or he just really needed some fresh air to sort his fuzzy thoughts out. He was beginning to feel even worse about having left Noah in the living room all along with absolutely no idea what was going on and he was considering going back quickly to apologize to him and maybe sit down for a moment or two just to talk, but before he could even leave the kitchen, the sound of Connor's voice echoed throughout the kitchen. At first it scared him since he wasn't expecting anything and he quickly looked up, a deep blush on his face. Crap . . . had Noah heard him from the living room? Had he been able to tell there was something wrong with him? It was all very embarrassing but there was probably nothing he could do about it anymore, sadly.
Sucking in a deep breath, Connor straightened out his posture and exhaled heavily, giving a nod and smiling at Noah. "O-of course, I'm . . . I'm fine. I'm, I'm just very tired after a long day at work and then what happened in the woods, and I didn't sleep too well last night because I had heard some howling from my window, and I just . . . y-yeah, I'm just tired." Yeah, that was a good enough excuse. He didn't have to tell Noah about the fact that he thought he was incredibly attractive. Ooooh no, Noah would never ever ever have to know about that. After all, he sort of assumed that he would probably never see the man again after tonight. Which he was completely not fine with. Still, it didn't matter. "S-so I'm . . . I-I'm very sorry for acting like this, in front of you. I didn't mean to offend you. I just . . . had a very long day." With that, Connor moved to start put the cover back over the sponge cake so that Noah would be able to take it home with him, making sure it was on tightly before another thought entered his mind, turning towards him. "Ah, um . . . you said . . . you would p-protect my home for me?" he asked, blinking a few times. "How . . . how exactly did you plan to do that?" He was curious, after all. "S-sorry to ask . . . I'm just . . . not too sure about how that sort of thing works, that's all."
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Posted: Sat Feb 09, 2013 1:35 pm
Noah was very concerned about Connor seeing him suddenly getting up like that. Even Mintha looks worried seeing how fixated she was on to the young man as she is still perched on his shoulder. He stood there in silence as he listened to all the blonde haired male’s stutters about of how tired he was after everything. It did made sense. He was lost in the woods and also hearing the howls? It would be impossible to hear any unless they must have slipped by his security that he insured to the people of Palisade. But he let out a small sigh in a relief and place a comforting hand on his head in a sort of gentle pet and tousle is blonde locks. “It’s fine, I was just worried if I might have overstayed here.” He said as he brought his hand back and watched him covering up the rest of the sponge cake for him to take home.
With the question brought up about how he would protect his home made the police chief nod his head slightly as he reached over to his belt where he carried his gear. His hand slipped under the flap of a small bag where he cleverly slid off the quartz pendulum inside. And he then took out what appears to be a gathering of cedar branches that is cut and wrapped around with string into a stick to show Connor. “It’s an old skill that I have learned. Wolves have sensitive noses and so they wouldn’t come close to something that smells so strongly.” That was a lie he would tell to other people because in truth it is an old Hedgewitch craft that he learned from his grandmother while he was young called Smudging. It’s not in his skill for a person who is in herbalism can cast a better spell than him but it’s something that he feels he can do. “Actually, I don’t have any sage leaves with me . . .” That was a problem because he ran out earlier today and he looked up to Connor. “I’m sorry, but do happen to have some? If so, I would really appreciate it if you can bundle them together like the cedar stick here.” He showed him the stick so he can have a proper visual of how he would like it.
From then, he left the kitchen, but Mintha flew from his shoulder to perch on to Connor’s shoulder to spend some time with him. Noah went to the fireplace and held out the cedar stick to the fire so the edge can catch on fire. He blew the fire out as it steadily smokes; creating a pleasant pine scent in the home. Avalloc knew what he was going to do and flew up to perch on his shoulder as Noah walks up to the window he saw first and smudge the smoke around the frame. It created a stream of smoke as Noah mutters a chant under his breath so that way the young baker won’t hear him. And once the stream of smoke was connected, Avalloc expand his wings wide and flapped a gust of wind to blow the smoke away as he sealed it. And he did that to the four points of the home and all the windows and doors.
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Posted: Sun Feb 17, 2013 2:35 am
Connor was honestly embarrassed for the way he had acted in front of Noah like that, and even in another room other than Noah too. Ah, it was just . . . so embarrassing! He always ended up doing that, he hated it! He didn't mean to, he just . . . couldn't help it. Noah was so . . . attractive and handsome and just . . . Aw ********, there he went again. Just as Connor mentally smacked himself, he suddenly felt a hand on top of his head, feeling it petting him and gently tousling his hair. Blue eyes filled with confusion looked up at the man, a deep blush forming on his cheeks as he looked up at him, relieved to hear that he forgave him for his behaviour. Or at least he thought he did . . . "N-not at all!" he said quickly, wanting to be sure Noah understood that. At least it seemed like he did which made him so happy.
Hearing Noah explaining to him what he was going to do to protect his home, Connor tried to listen the best as he could and also carefully too, but all of what he was telling him seemed absolutely confusing. A skill he learned . . . that involved herbs? Sage leaves? Well, luckily he did have some somewhere in his kitchen so there was no worry about that. Seeing him go off, Connor watched him for a moment, deciding to trust him to go and do what he needs to. After all he doesn't want to interrupt or distract him or anything like that. He looked over at Mintha who was now on his shoulder, giving her a gentle smile. "Ah, so you can help me look for the sage leaves then," he joked softly, giving her a gently pet with his index figure before moving to rummage around the cupboards of his kitchen to find just what Noah needed which didn't really take too long. He then moved over to one of his free counters that were clean and gathered the safe leaves all together in a bundle just how Noah had showed him, although he wasn't too sure how many he wanted so he gave him quite a bit, deciding that if he really didn't need as much then he could take them out. And with that he leaned back against the counter on the opposite while, raising a hand up to pet Mintha again as he waited for Noah to finish and return.
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Posted: Mon Feb 18, 2013 10:17 pm
He is a strange young man, Noah has to admit. But he knows that Connor means well and is just exhausted from everything today and so he’s not mad or upset at all. And so he wanted to finish warding his home and leave to go home. He does have to wake up early the next day and needs his rest after all. Hearing that Connor has the sage leaves made him happy to hear and appreciated the help. Because soon he would need it as he is just about finish warding Connor’s home. Noah would hope that it would be strong enough as he was finishing up the last window. The smoke of the cedar wood is wafting in the air as a steady stream lined around the window ever so perfectly as he chanted. Once the smoke line finally connected, Avalloc flapped his wings and blow the smoke to seal it. “There, now it’s all done.” The Rook let out a caw at a job well done that it made the man lift his hand up to pet his head.
Noah lightly jabbed the cedar wood stick into his gloved hand to extinguish the smoke and slipped it into his bag before returning to Connor. He saw how close he and Mintha have become which made him smiled and even more when she nuzzled into the petting. “Thank you for the sage leaves Connor.” He said as he took off his gloves and has them tucked into his work belt for now before he grabbed the wrapped up herbs; white sage actually which was perfect. They were wrapped nice and tightly which made him smile in response before looking down at the young man. “Come with me to the living room since this is for you actually.” It must be a surprised for the blonde haired male but Noah wanted to do something to set his nerves at ease if possible.
Upon reaching to the living room, he held the sage up to the roaring fire to burn it at the end. He quickly pulled it back to blow out the flame as it starts to waft a rather thick smoke of a delicious pungent scent in the air. The atmosphere of the room had a sudden change as the smoke filled the space as it brought upon a feeling of ease and tranquility the more they breathed it in as Noah stared down at Connor with a gentle smile on his face. “This is something that I would do whenever I feel stressed from work. Burning a few sage leaves has this relaxing quality just by the smell of it and so I thought it would help you relax before you go to sleep.” Of course, he left out the detail that it cleanses the body of bad spirits that may be lingering on to him and keeps him protected as well. A gentle hand was lifted up and caressed Connor’s cheek as well as making him lifting his head up to meet his steel blue eyes that pierced through the smoke. “Look into my eyes and breathe deeply. I want you to keep your gaze on me.” He firmly instructed him, seeing the stern lines of his sharp face. “Does the smoke bother you though?” He wanted to know before he continued if it’s going to be too much for him.
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Posted: Tue Feb 19, 2013 5:17 am
Connor was enjoying himself just bonding a little with Mintha and it actually amused him very much when he realized just how needy she was to get his attention. Ah, he wondered how Rosaire would act if she had a little birdy friend like Mintha to bother her? He can only imagine the two now, and he had a feeling they would really get along. Rosy loved birds and other creatures that were smaller than her after all. However he didn't have long to think about it as soon a sudden caw had startled him. Soon after he saw Noah appear once more in the doorway, giving a nod as he thanked him for the sage leaves. "O-of course." Soon Connor couldn't help but look surprised as he was told to come with the police officer this time, saying that whatever he was going to do next was for him. What . . . exactly was he going to do? It scared him slightly since really this seemed like some sort of witchcraft of some sort . . . just without the magic and stuff. Where did Noah learn all of this anyway? It was . . . bizarre, to say the least.
Nonetheless, the blonde followed Noah into his living room, watching him carefully. Again . . . just what was he even doing? Connor really desperately wanted to ask the man but he didn't want to interrupt him either so he just watched him curiously to try and understand as he let him do his thing. It was hard not to cough at first when the smoke started to fill the room, though he was a little surprised at how relaxing the room suddenly felt just with the smoke as he felt the scent filled his nostrils, inhaling it gently. He looked up at Noah's face when he saw him turn to him and smile, listening closely to what he was complaining. Ah, this was to relax him and help him sleep a little? That was . . . interesting. He kind of liked that Noah was actually taking the fact that he might have trouble sleeping or something into consideration. It made him happy to know that Noah really was a nice guy as well and not just something nice to look at, or rather just acting nice towards him for the time being.
Connor snapped out of his thoughts when he suddenly felt a hand caress his cheek, causing him to look up at him, his icy blue eyes meeting those steel blue ones of Noah. He did just as he was told, looking into the man's eyes and breathing deeply, although keeping his gaze on him was going to be hard. He could feel his face growing hotter and hotter with each passing second, knowing very well that it was probably as red as a beet, which would certainly stand out against his pale skin. He almost didn't even realize Noah had said something but he managed to catch what he said and so he quickly nodded. "O-oh, n-no! No . . . it doesn't . . . K-keep . . . keep going." At first the smoke had been a little too much but now it wasn't so bad and it truly did feel relaxing. And if Noah wasn't done yet, he figured the man ought to continue.
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