[ - Enter Emma and Krem walking toward The Horseman’s Inn - ]
Emma had to admit – the guard was cute. His goofy smile was contagious and far more attractive to her than his suave smirk. She had to wonder if he had started all his flirtatious encounters with the goofy smile if he would still be single. Surely not. Smiling to herself, Emma pulled her cloak a bit tighter, wanting to trap some of the heat that still surrounded her body. ‘I wonder if he will follow after me…’ She suspected that he was either taking a break from his duties or perhaps he simply had the day off. Either way, she felt a bit guilty about drawing him away from his friend’s company. In any case, Emma didn’t have to wonder for very long. She’d hardly made it more than a hundred feet from the Jolly Tavern and Inn before she heard the door open and close twice. The rushed foot steps behind her alerted her to the fact that he was coming to meet her.
Stopping her stride, Emma turned to look at the guard as he came closer, another one of those charming, goofy smiles on his face. He was clearly pleased with her invitation to accompany her and she found that she was glad that he’d accepted. Offering him a warm, happy and amused smile, she looked up into his golden-brown eyes as he came to stand next to her.
“Hello again…I’m glad you decided to accompany me.” To her delight, he offered her his arm, which she gladly took. Slipping her arm through the loop of his, Emma rested her hand on the guard’s forearm lightly. Glancing up at him as they began to walk again, she smiled to herself. “By the way, we were never properly introduced. My name is Emma Grace Forrester. Will you gift me with your name or should I continue to call you ‘Handsome’?” Emma teased lightly, looking up at him with a flirtatious smile and amused gleam in her eyes.
It would be a mistake to allow such a thing to pass. So Krem would hurry along and gather his cloak, slinging it over his shoulder and rushing out the door. To his surprise, she stood just short of the door but had begun to walk. About to shout out to her, Emma would turn, offering him in exchange for his hurried footsteps, a warm smile. He could feel his heart melt. The cold wind slapped his face, immediately turned to crips. He wanted to shiver, but instead, Krem slowed his walking and caught up to her, looking down eagerly. "I couldn't let such beautiful women simply walk out of my life." Krem would state, immediately offering his arm.
The two began small footsteps toward wherever she guided him. She stood on his right, allowing his sword to clank lightly on his left hip, occasionally scraping against his leg. His grin had turned into a smile, delighted to have someone as beautiful as she at his arm. Krem had wished he wore his full armor, perhaps that would have had her swooning. He heard women love men in uniform. It was at the same time, Krem wondered if he should have asked her name. He let a light laugh fill the breathless air. "Handsome works just fine, but my name is Theodlac Valser, you can call me Krem however." Krem delightedly said, glancing down at the women. "You have the most gorgeous eyes, Miss Forrester." He'd compliment, his own eyes seemingly lost in hers "I could spend years looking into them."
[◈ Where - Jolly Tavern & Inn]xxx [◈ With - Emma]xxx [◈ Feeling - Excited]xxx [◈ Outfit- Top&bottom [Vest]]xxx [◈OCC]xxx
Emma chuckled lightly at Krem's words. She made a mental note to continue to refer to him as 'handsome' when she wished to both compliment and flirt with him a little. "Theodlac, such a strong name..." Emma said with a speculative smile as she looked up at him as they continued to walk through the mostly deserted market streets toward the Houseman's Inn.
Catching and holding his gaze, she blushed a bit from his compliment. Personally, she loved it when people noticed her eyes. Her father had often said that they were a, 'forest green, to compliment her last name'. To know that Krem found them captivating filled her with delight. Glancing away, as if a bit shy, she let her own smile shine freely for him to see. "Making plans for the future already?" Emma teased lightly, her hand gently grasping Krem's forearm as she spoke. "I do hope, that as we get to know one another better, that you come to admire my personality as much as my beauty, Krem. So far, I find you both handsome and charming." She felt no need to hide the fact that she was attracted to him, after all it was fairly obvious given her demeanor and her invitation to spend more time with him despite hardly knowing him.
"If I were asked to guess at your chosen profession, I would say you were a City Guard, or perhaps a bodyguard?" Emma asked as she looked ahead, taking care to avoid any ice in the street that might cause her to fall and harm herself or him.
Krem would arch a brow curiously "Never thought of it as a strong name..." Names could be strong? Krem cocked his head to the side in confusion, but would gladly accept any compliment coming from his new found female friend. "Father gave it to me." He'd remark, giving small information with his backstory. His hand that offered an elbow, was resting lightly against his vest, grasping the end of it as leverage.
He'd let out a hardy chuckle and give a goofy shrug and rolled his head to glance at her "Eh, I like to go big." He'd laugh a bit more before letting it die down. The two had found themselves in a rather quiet marketplace today. Perhaps it was the chill that stopped others from coming, or the oncoming rain turned to ice. Whether or not, he was glad to have some alone time with Emma. He knew not why he was so drawn to her, but he'd be damned to let that feeling fade right now. He'd glance over to her, noticing a flush to her cheeks, a little cocky smirk drew to his face.
"Indeed. I'm apart of the city guard." Krem remarked "Been on the force for a few months now, I'm decently new to Eoana as well." he had been new once just like her, his first experience was full of hopelessness, he hated getting lost in a new environment, and it just so happened that the market was where he got lost. But thanks to that, he knew each corner by heart now. "I decided to ditch training this morning, I know, dont go swooning just yet." Krem remarked with another smirk "And thankfully I did." He'd offer her a wink with one wicked grin. "And you? What brought you to Eoana?"
[◈ Where - Outside the Inn]xxx [◈ With - Emma]xxx [◈ Feeling - Excited]xxx [◈ Outfit- Top&bottom [Vest]]xxx [◈OCC]xxx
The more time Emma spent with Krem, the more they talked, the more she liked him. He was a little goofy - which she liked - he was also charming and intelligent. She was pleased to know that she’d guessed right in regard to his profession. Being a City Guard was a very important job, one that she knew she could never handle. The guards protected everyone, they upheld the law and made sure that all was well in the city. It was a job that was highly under appreciated. “A city guard, a very honorable job. I thank you for your hard work, Krem, your job is not an easy one.” She said as she glanced at him with a small smile.
Emma was surprised to hear that he had ditched training – she supposed that some days all you wanted to do was relax, especially when you had such a tough job. She chuckled lightly at his teasing and the fact that he was glad to have ditched out, since he’d had the opportunity to meet her. “I have a feeling that even if you hadn’t met me today, we would have bumped into one another at some point, Krem.”
As they walked, a particularly strong gust of wind swooped down the street, hitting them head on. Shivering, Emma instinctively moved closer to Krem, seeking his heat and his strength. “Oh goodness, it’s so cold!” She said as she shivered. “I can’t wait to get to the Inn…” A warm drink and a hot bath would be just what she needed to warm back up.
“I came to Eoana for the opportunities here.” She said as she held Krem’s arm a bit tigher, standing as close as she could to him as they walked. Amazingly, despite the wind, she felt much warmer being close to Krem like this. It only took them another few minutes to reach the Horseman’s Inn, thankfully. Glancing up at him, she led the way inside to where it was warm, but as she moved through the doorway, she had to relinquish his arm. The Inn was smaller than the Jolly Tavern and Inn, but it was warm, and the food was good. Stepping into the warmth, she breathed a deep sigh of relief. Glancing over her shoulder at Krem, Emma gave him a friendly smile. “Would you like something warm to drink? I’m freezing…”
"I don't need thanks, it's my job. Not like I was forced into it. I applied because I wanted to help." Krem remarked casually, not wanting to seem a hero of sorts. It wasn't his style, despite his cocky attitude and loud mouth, he hated when others would call him a hero, giving thanks as if he was forced into this position. Suppose it was a valent position, but it was something he enjoyed doing. "Going from the army to this was an easy transition really, basically the same." His lax posture and tone would indicate such. It seemed he'd find doing such a taxing job rather easy.
Emma laughed at the proposition that he ditched training, and was especially glad for it. "Are you sure? I'd rather just stick to my good fortune." Hed smile at her, knowing surely they'd meet, especially with her possibly taking a position as a bar maid. As he was just about to speak up, a gust of wind shocked both to the core. Krems cloak nearly flew off, causing a small gasp as the chill slapped him silly. He'd fist both his hands and release a heavy sigh "Bloody hell." He'd groan before noticing how freezing Emma had become.
"You have more layers than I, yet you the cold one." He'd chuckle before using his cloak to help cover her. Thankfully the freezing cold didn't affect him so much, many battles were won in freezing temperatures, with only your armor worn. Suffering a bit would only grow some hair on his chest. "Lets get you inside." The two hustled a bit more so than before, the chill setting in rather quickly. She spoke of opportunity, he was intrigued with what opportunities were here. Then again, he found himself a job rather quickly as well.
Hustling along, the two entered the Inn, both sighed simultaneously, allowing Krem to laugh lightly. "Hell yes." He'd speak with a laugh, immediately offering a hand in taking off the womens cloak. "A cider or ale would be perfect." He'd remark taking her cloak and carrying it with him.
[◈ Where - Outside the Inn]xxx [◈ With - Emma]xxx [◈ Feeling - Excited]xxx [◈ Outfit- Top&bottom [Vest]]xxx [◈OCC]xxx
Emma was certainly surprised that Krem didn’t ‘need’ her thanks. It wasn’t that she wanted to glorify him, it was that she knew he had a rough job that required a lot of his time and effort. Many citizens didn’t realize how hard the City Guards worked to protect them. Emma had been saved more than once by a guard or guards who’d arrived just in time to break up particularly nasty bar fights. Emma had been beaten up more than once, but it was a risk that came with her job. In any case, she had many city guards to thank…Maybe one day Krem would save her too.
His teasing about her layers made her both smile and feel a little bad. Perhaps he didn’t like that she sought his warmth? Honestly, she hadn’t even thought about it, she’d subconsciously moved into him when the wind had blasted them. This was her first thought, but then Krem wrapped his own cloak around her, sharing his warmth with her. Blushing lightly at the gesture, she felt herself warm, and not because of the added layer.
Once inside, Krem helped her remove her cloak, like a gentlemen, to which she offered Krem a smile and a small nod of thanks. “Thank you Krem. Why don’t you find us some seats and I’ll get our drinks.” Giving him a little wink, she left his side to head for the bar.
The dining area was much smaller than the Jolly Tavern and Inn, but it was cozy and warm. Emma knew that she could probably get a job here, but smaller establishments meant less customers and thus, less money. She was saving to get her own place and wanted to work for a larger establishment if she could. If things at the Jolly Tavern didn’t pan out, then she’d inquire here – the staff already liked her, so it probably wouldn’t take much convincing to get a job here.
“Hi George, can I please have two hot ciders?” Emma asked the bartender as she came up to lean on the bar. George gave her a large grin in greeting. “Comin’ right up, Darlin’.” Reaching into her pocket, she placed the payment on the bar, taking care to give George a little extra. George was a nice guy, an older gentlemen who reminded her of her father. Unlike most bartenders, he seemed to genuinely care about his customers - Emma liked him a lot. George noticed the extra she’d placed on the counter, shaking his head a little, he smirked. “Your next round is on me, Emma. Let me know if that guy youre with needs the boot and I'll take care of it.” He said with a wink as he placed the mugs on the bar top.
Emma smirked a little and gave him a nod. She’d only been at the Inn a week and George was already looking out for her. “If I need to, I will George, but I have a good feeling about this one.” Taking the mugs in hand, she headed for the table Krem had snagged. Placing one mug in front of him, she smiled. “One Hot Cider, for the Handsome Guard.” She knew she was being silly, but she couldn’t seem to help it. Taking the seat across from him, she settled in, her hands cupping the warm mug to absorb some of it’s heat. Emma knew that she could have sat next to Krem, but she found that she wanted to look him in the eyes when they spoke.
He'd offer in response a small nod, eyes moving to glance around his surroundings. It was smaller than the tavern, but it was homey and warm. It was often said it doesn't matter the size, simply how you use it. He would inhale lightly, glancing around some more before settling on a group of chairs and a table off to the side, but not in the corner. It neared the fire, warming Krem up slowly. Setting their cloaks to the side, he'd plop down in his chair, and lean over to the fireplace, warming his freezing hands. One downside of chivalry was you typically ended up freezing.
He paid little attention to Emma ordering drinks, more focused on warming up. It wasn't till she walked back toward him, that his eyes drew back to hers. He smiled up at her, extending a hand to the drink. He'd pop up and pull back her chair, allowing her to sit down. He'd let out a light laugh as she called him handsome once more. It was nice, being complimented. It had been quite some time anyone gained an interest in him, and an interest in another. His hands slipped into his cider and immediately took a sip, hand slipping over another for warmth. After a sip, he'd set it down and lean back into his chair, glancing over everything. "Haven't found a house yet, eh?" Krem would remark "A shame." he glanced over, giving her a smirk.
"Where are you from?" He pulled himself up and leaned against the table, elbow as support. "I say Valor, but I shant assume." He'd give a small shrug and a playful smile.
[◈ Where - Sitting at a table]xxx [◈ With - Emma]xxx [◈ Feeling - Excited]xxx [◈ Outfit- Top&bottom [Vest]]xxx [◈OCC]xxx
Krem was just full of little surprises. She liked that he was chivalrous and polite, taking the time to pull out her chair for her like he did. Emma was one to appreciate the little gestures that meant so much. So far, he’d offered to escort her to the Academy, he’d offered his arm to her as they walked and sheltered her from the cold with his cloak, he’d removed her cloak upon entering the Inn and now he’d pulled out her chair. Another girl might think that he was trying too hard, but Emma knew that those small gestures were out of kindness and consideration – they came easily to Krem.
Taking her seat, she shrugged lightly at his inquiry regarding a house. “I would love to have one, but I don’t think I’ll be able to afford one. I need a job first, and then I can think about trying to find my own place.” Until then, she would continue to rent a cheap room and search for a paying position that was worth her time. She truly hoped that Kayne was impressed by her tomorrow. Emma had to wonder if Krem had his own home or if he roomed that the Barracks like most of guards. One perk of working for the city was that they provided room and board, on top of their pay. It was a good deal and one that Emma would have taken, if she were capable, as well.
Sipping her hot cider, she sighed in relief. Seated so near the fire, she slowly felt some warmth seep back into her. The cider was lovely and helped to warm her from the inside out while the fire worked to warm her from the outside. “I’m from Trendel actually. I was born in a smaller town just outside the city and worked in my father’s Tavern for the majority of my life. When I was seventeen...I started traveling. I’ve worked in a lot of taverns and inns since then, from Trendel to Valor and now, hopefully, Eoana.” She hoped that Krem wouldn’t think less of her because she was from Trendel. If so, it wouldn’t be the first time a suitor was put off by her place of birth. However, she had her fingers crossed that it wouldn’t matter much to him, even though he’d served in the military…
“What about you, Krem? Where do you call home?” Emma asked with a friendly smile as she looked into his eyes. She was curious to know if he was just passing through Eoana or if he planned on settling down here. So far, Emma really enjoyed the city, and it’s people, and felt confident that she could make a fresh start here.
"I hear the forest has some nooks, decently cheap due to the walk." Krem spoke, taking a swig of his cider, exhaling with a smile. The cider was fantastic here, better than at the barracks that's for sure. It seemed the home atmosphere had Krem wanting to curl up and sleep. Taking another sip, he'd rest the cup down and glance curiously at the women. She was adorable, the way her fingers curled around the cup to her leaning into the warmth of the fire. He wondered if he'd taken her cloak a little too early...
"Ah, I see." He'd make a surprised expression, intruited. "Keep it a secret," Krem would lean it a bit closer, smiling at the women. Her features up close had his heart thumping rather heard, he was a bit caught off guard about the sudden clenched chest. His eyes darted for a moment, away from her, perhaps this was a bad idea... Internally he was loosing it, but he quickly bounced back and glanced confidently at the women "I am from Trendel as well." He'd offer a smirk, his pearly whites flashing, strong and charming. He'd pull back and give a soft nod "It sure is interesting though, all walks of life seem to meet here. Sort of mixing ground yeah?" He'd make a statement but linger with a hint of a question, giving her the option to speak on about the topic.
"I wouldn't call Trenedel my home however, I'd choose something else." He'd remark, bringing the cup back up to his lips and taking another hit "Place left a bad taste in my mouth." He'd scrunch his nose and stitch out his tongue, making a 'bleh' sound. In truth, it was a place were he was beaten and abused, and later found his families bodies. It wasn't a fun time or place for him. "Home is were I make it... currently, I suppose Eoana is it..." He hasitly spoke, his eyes adverting to the distant as he began to think, what would he call home?
"I've taken much of your time." Krem spoke, already finished his drink. "And sadly I must return to my duties." He'd give a goofy groan, leaving the cup at the table as he began to sit upright, standing soon and leaning over Emma to take a hand from her cup, he'd bring it to his lips and press a soft kiss against the back of her hand. Leaning down to it, he bowed and kissed her hand all in one. Pulling his head up to look at her, he smiled "It was a pleasure to meet you lady Forrester. I shall escort you tomorrow, safe and sound." His grin pushing wider as he released her hand slowly and gathered his cloak, fitting it to himself, and soon exiting the tavern.
[exit for the rp day]
[◈ Where - Sitting at a table]xxx [◈ With - Emma]xxx [◈ Feeling - Excited]xxx [◈ Outfit- Top&bottom [Vest]]xxx [◈OCC]xxx
Emma smiled at Krem’s silliness when he leaned in as if to tell her a secret only to reveal that he too was from Trendel. Smiling, she took a sip of her hot cider and listened as he spoke. “Yes, Eoana certainly is unique. Despite the war, I have found that this neutral territory is full of people, from both kingdoms, who just want to live peacefully and that gives me hope for the future.” Yes, there was always the possibility of the war starting a new, but she hoped that that wouldn’t happen in her lifetime. She liked it here…
“I can understand that…just because you were born there doesn’t mean that you call that place home.” Yes, there were things that she missed about Trendel, but they were gone now and she had nothing left to go back to – it was one of the reasons why she kept moving. Emma was looking for something, something that she hadn’t found yet. Perhaps it was a reason to stay, or maybe someone, she didn’t know.
As the two continued to chat and finish their drinks, Emma found that she truly enjoyed Krem’s company and all that she’d learned about him in a short time. Before she knew it, Krem had to leave to return back to his duties. Surprisingly, Emma felt her chest tighten a bit at the notion of him leaving, but she offered him a smile and a nod of understanding. “I understand, but I appreciate you seeing me back to the Inn and taking some time to get to know me better. I certainly enjoyed sharing a drink with you.” Much to her surprise, Krem arose from his seat and took her hand in his. Looking up into his eyes she smiled and blushed lightly at the kiss he gave her. She grasped his hand lightly for a moment before he relinquished it.
"It was a pleasure to meet you too, Krem. I’m glad you approached me an offered your service. Have a wonderful evening.” That being said, she watched him leave, a small up tilt to her lips. After returning the mugs, Emma headed to her room for a much-needed hot bath. She soaked for nearly an hour before drying and changing into a warm outfit. She enjoyed a hot meal, courtesy of George who hadn’t forgotten her generosity, and then she turned in early. Cuddled in her bed, Emma drifted to sleep with a smile on her face. She was eager to start the new day, to see if she had what it took to earn the job, not to mention she was eager to see a certain handsome guard at first light…
It was a new day and for once, Krem was excited to wake. He had slept soundly as well, which often didn't happen in the barracks. Krem wasn't a morning person at all, in fact, he dreaded it quite a lot. Today was an exception, as today he escorted a beautiful women period, he didn't need anything else. She was drop dead gorgeous and somehow had enjoyed Krems company. No way in hell was he going to reject such an offer or opportunity. So up he was, rather early in fact, dressed and out the door quickly.
He'd slob down some breakfast, shower, and dress in his full uniform for today. Yes, it was in partial for Emma, he knew for a fact he looked dashing in it. It was tailored for him, scratched laid across the metal showing his battles past. But it was polished and clean. Krem takes pride in many things, this is one of them. It was a tailored made, having paid out of pocket for it just short of joining the army, once he realized the army provided s**t armor. So just before battle, he spent all his money and forged himself well fit armor. To this day, he polished it frequesntly and took very good care of it, similiar to his blade.
But today also happened to be the gala, which he was sure guards would be posted, especially after yesterdays explosion. Rey had already briefed them about the scenario and Krem would be sure to not allow the red head anywhere near the gala. All in all, it seemed fit to show off himself a bit, taking pride in his armor and his job. Hustling over before daybreak, Krem would enter the Inn quietly.
[enter in the Inn]
Thankfully the fire was lit, but none seemed to be around. Krem fumed a bit, unsure of how to approach it. He knew not which room she was in, nor where the owner was. Krem stood at the entrance for a moment, glancing around. Just behind the tavern's table, he'd note a notebook laying open. A light bulb went off in his head, soon heading over to the desk, taking the notebook with his hands. Hed glance through it, noting who was all in the Inn. Krem felt this a violation of privacy.... but what else was he suppose to do?
[◈ Where - Sitting at a table]xxx [◈ With - Emma]xxx [◈ Feeling - Excited]xxx [◈ Outfit- Amourxxx [◈OCC]xxx
Emma awoke earlier than normal, but with good reason. She had much to be excited about and as such, she awoke with a smile on her face and a spring in her step. Stretching wide, she yawned deeply but was quick to brush off any lingering grogginess that she might have. Not only did she have an appointment at the Academy, but she also had a date, of sorts, with a rather dashing guard. Arising from bed, Emma washed her face and teeth before brushing out her long hair. The black, curly waves were naturally thus, which made it easy for her to get ready in the morning.
Stepping to her wardrobe, Emma chose to dress in deep blues. Her dress was tailor made for her and perfect for a working environment like the classroom or the kitchen. The corseted top was well fitting and accentuated her figure perfectly. Slipping on a warm pair of knee high, black leather boots to keep her feet warm and dry, she finished off her outfit with her blue cloak for good measure. Smiling to herself, Emma hoped that Krem approved of her color choice. Normally, she wore greens to compliment her eyes, but she found blues to be especially pleasing as well.
Exiting her room, she locked up before heading down the stairs to the common dining area, which she knew would be mostly deserted at this hour. As she stepped into the room, she caught sight of a male figure standing at the desk, flipping through the Inn’s guest book. Arching a brow, she smirked a bit as she realized it was Krem, likely looking for which room she was in so he could come and fetch her. Taking care to be quiet, she moved close and stood behind him, her hands clasped at the small of her back as she leaned in a bit to whisper. “Caught red handed….” She teased, a small laugh leaving her lips as she watched his reaction to her sudden appearance. “I’m in room number ten, for future reference.” She had to wonder if he would need that information. Emma hoped that she’d be seeing more of the City Guard, but you never knew…
Looking the guard up and down, she noted his full armor, complete with his weapons. How had he known that men in armor was one of her weaknesses? Her gaze traveled over his form in open appreciation, a small blush on her lips as she subconsciously nibbled her lip a bit. It wasn't until her gaze moved back to his eyes that she smiled a bit sheepishly, having been caught openly oogling him. "I would apologize, but I suspect that you get that reaction a lot." Emma said with a smile.
He was in search of Emmas name, hoping it would be one of the first few. Reading the names silently, Krem seemed content on the mater. Reality was, he should have simply waited. But he was horrid when it came to patients. He was a go-getter and wanted it right then vs later. He'd give a light sigh, flipping the page as he casually read the book, hoping to find her name.
He had heard some sturring from above but assumed it was simply that. Lucky for her, the wood floors did not creak or offer any noise. She had succeeded in sneaking up on the other male. Just moments before she spoke, Krem would catch a faint perfume and the light sensation of breath against his skin, and when she whispered, Krem felt his body tense up, but thankfully he wasn't extremely startled. Turning quickly on his feat he whipped around with a wide smile.
Immediately he raised a hand to rub against his neck, sighing nervously "I wasn-" He stopped and shook his head "I shall remember it." He smiled weakly at her, his face flushed a bit as he had truly been caught red-handed. His eyes finally caught onto just how Emma looked. She wore a deep blue dress, which seemed to have hints of green in them. But his issue was how well it fit, it accentuated her body very well, allowing Krem to simply enjoy her. Along with the cloak, Emma looked charming and quite lovely. It seemed both openly eyed each other, causing Krem to chuckle a bit, lowering his hands to his hips as he released a light sigh "I do, but not by such fine women." He'd remark cheeky, a flush against his cheeks.
"You look lovely Lady Forrester." Krem remarked, reaching out and taking Emmas hand once more, pressing his lips against it and offering a smile afterward, slowly lowering her hand and immediately offering his arm for her to take. "Have you eaten?"
[◈ Where - Inn]xxx [◈ With - Emma]xxx [◈ Feeling - Excited]xxx [◈ Outfit- Amourxxx [◈OCC]xxx
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