Spirits of the Earth

It was a clear morning in Uthlyn, with a distinct chill in the air. It was clear that autumn was descending on Connlaoth, bringing with it the cold weather and nippy winds that always heralded winter. The trees had not yet lost their leaves though, and the birds still sang amongst the branches in the parks.

It was in one of these parks that Lotte was frowning in disappointment. She had finished her morning chores early and received permission to leave the brothel. Mornings were always quiet, with most of the girls staying in bed until later in the day. These were the quiet hours when Lotte could escape, and pretend for a while that she had a normal life.

Or she could, if it weren't for these dratted bindings. Her wrists were connected by a long chain of silver, clipped onto her slave bangles. It was less restrictive than some days, a testament to her good behaviour, but still not enough. She had been trying to dance, desperate to practice her steps, but the lack of movement seriously impeded her progress.

She had just given up, after jarring her wrist as she tried to execute a move. "It's no good," she muttered to herself, feeling tears well up in her eyes. Sinking onto a stone bench, she buried her face in her hands.

He stood hiding behind a tree just watching the beautiful nymph dance about. Rather, he was hiding as best as a centaur the size of a small house could behind the young sapling that was trying to grow strong before the autumn winds knocked it over.

Holding his breath he quickly looked from side to side before shifting forms. He dismounted from Ylli, patting the horse's neck before moving away. Approaching the woman slowly, he knelt beside her before addressing her. "I think it was beautiful," he whispered shyly, wishing he had enough courage to take her hands in his own to better comfort her.

It was through flowing tears that Lotte heard the man's voice - suddenly near her. Sniffling, she opened her fingers and peered through them at the owner of the voice. He had seen her dancing? And had bothered coming all the way over to talk to her? Something seemed off about this, but hey, she was in no position to pass up compliments.

She lowered her hands, chain clinking, and wiped her eyes. "You did? Really?" She sniffled again, mouth in an unhappy little pout.

"You saw me dance?"

Iorwerth smiled, relieved that the girl was talking back and not running in terror. He figured the moment he stood up she would be intimidated by his height, so stayed put. "Aye, I did. You were like a butterfly on the wind, so graceful and whimsical. It would have been a crime not to inform you of it right away. You, fair lady, had me entranced and enamored with the poise and freedom you displayed. I only wish that I could dance half as well as you. You are like a goddess sent to earth, if such a thing exists."

His hand came up slowly as if by its on volition to rest on the side of her face. The pad of his thumb gently brushed away some of her tears before coming to push a stray lock of hair behind her ear. A blush darkened his cheeks and he bowed his head. "I'm sorry," he apologized quietly. "It is a pleasure to have met you fair angel. I shall not take anymore of your time."

Lotte stared, her tears halted by her confusion. Who was this man, and why was he talking like that? She'd heard language like that only in poetry - and even then, not often. She frowned a little as she thought it through... surely this man was making fun of her. Why else would he come over and use such flowery language.

She was about to say something of this sort when he touched her, and her mouth ran dry. She quivered a little under his touch, intensely aware of how vulnerable she was out here. She had no way to defend herself, with her hands bound as they were, and no doubt he could run much faster than she. A little squeak escaped her lips as these thoughts ran through her mind. And yet... he did not seem dangerous. He had touched gently, and his words... though mocking, were kind.

"Why... Who are you?" she decided to question him. At the least, she could buy herself thinking time... at the best, it would turn out that he was harmless.

The human centaur, started slightly at her question. "Oh, forgive me! My name is Iorwerth, I'm a bard." Normally he would have leaned forward to greet her in the proper fashion, brushing cheek-to-cheek, but he had a feeling she would not take kindly to that right now.

His eyes fell downward in embarrassment coming to rest on her hands. The strange silver chain around her wrists glinted in the early sunlight and he found himself entranced by it. 'Is it part of her dance? It would be rude to ask. I should be going though, she doesn't seem to want to dance if I'm around stalking her. Silly Iorwerth, you're scaring her!'

Smiling her way again he bid her a good day and moved back from her a bit before standing. He knew how tall he was and how it intimidated many. Loosely clasping his hands in front of him, Iorwerth gave the fair dancer a slight bow and turned to go.

Lotte knew that this man - Iorwerth  - was staring at her bindings, and she felt uncomfortable, unconsciously clinking the chain against itself as he looked. Still, as much as her natural instincts told her that she should be afraid, she couldn't help but be intrigued by this strange man. He had done nothing threatening, after all. On the contrary, he had complimented her, and spoken to her like an equal, and seemed anxious not to crowd her. Even now he was backing away and turning to leave.

"Wait." She had spoken almost before she knew it, her quiet voice surprising even her. Wiping at her eyes roughly again, she held out one small hand to the man.

"I'm Lotte."

Her words while quiet seemed to have rung loudly in his ears. At her gentle command he froze in his strides and turned back to face her. "Lotte?" he repeated, testing the word and finding that he liked the way it flowed off his tongue. "Such a beautiful name for an even more beautiful woman."

Reaching forward slowly he took her hand in his own much larger one and placed a chaste kiss upon the top of it. "Well met, Lady Lotte." Once he came to realize he was still holding on to her hand, Iorwerth dropped it and begin wringing his hands together and biting his lip nervously. 'What do I do? She's not crying anymore. She told me her name, she seems to want me to stay but, what do I do? What do I say?'

A soft whinny from behind him reminded him of the other half of his soul. 'Ylli! Of course!' Smiling reassuringly to the little dancer he began to explain. "Forgive me again, Lotte. I seem to forgotten my faithful steed. Would you like to meet him? He is a bit large, but I assure you he is as gentle as a kitten."

Iorwerth barely even had a chance to finish before he felt the familiar bump of nose snuffling at his shoulder. "Really Ylli," he mock chastised. "That's no way to greet a lady. You're supposed to wait until I call for you. People are going to start thinking you're the actual brains of this duo. We can't have that now, can we?" Looking to her he shrugged his shoulder. "Horses, what can you do with them?"

Lotte smiled cautiously as her hand was kissed, blushing a little as he greeted her in such a formal fashion. She knew she was no lady but she had to admit it was nice to be spoken to like one, for a change. As he dropped her hand she crossed it over her other hand demurely, and was wondering how to proceed when the horse's whinny startled her. She hadn't even noticed the creature, but as Iorwerth introduced him she gazed on with eyes huge.

"Your... steed?" She leaned back nervously as the horse came forwards. She had seen horses before, but only on the outskirts of the city, pulling trade carts or being ridden by the soldiers - who she was understandably wary of.

He winced as he observed the way she became even more nervous. 'Idiot you are scaring her again!' Iorwerth anxiously ran his hand up and down Ylli's neck before commanding the horse to lie down. Kneeling down as well, the man sent her another calming smile.

"There is nothing to fear from him. He's just a big love. In fact, Ylli will be your friend for life if you rub his neck. Isn't that right?" Iorwerth leaned forward and kissed the beautiful horse on his white blaze.

Only as he was pulling away did he have an ironic thought. 'If I'm Ylli and Ylli is me then every time I kiss him I'm kissing myself. Yick! I need to stop thinking! Make it go away!'

Relaxing a little as the horse and man both lowered themselves to the ground, Lotte stood up slowly. It made her feel better to have the advantage of height - maybe that was silly, but it was something which didn't happen often for her. She smiled to see Iorwerth kissing the horse, her fears abated by the care he showed for the creature. Slowly, carefully, she stepped forward and crouched down, reaching out to touch Ylli on the neck.

"He's beautiful." Feeling the warm, rough coat under her fingers had a calming effect, and she beamed at the horse. "You're beautiful," she said again, addressing the comment to Ylli this time.

"I've never seen a horse up close before," she confessed to Iorwerth shyly, her hand still resting on Ylli's neck.

A deep sense of pride bloomed in Iorwerth's chest as Lotte praised his "horse" twice. Liking the contact of the young woman, Ylli snorted and butted his head like a cat against her knee. "Told you he was a lovbug," Iorwerth teased, resting his hand on the creature's neck.

Looking between horse and woman, he finally came to a decision. "Lovely Lotte, would you like to take a short ride on him? I'll right beside you so you don't fall if that concerns you. Ylli is very good with child riders, I'm sure he won't give you any trouble." Something deep within Iorwerth counseled him to make this woman happy. He would do his darnedest to make sure that happened.

"Oh!" Lotte gasped and giggled as the horse butted against her, reaching to stroke his forelock carefully. "He's sweet."

She looked curiously at Iorwerth as he suggested the ride, her eyes wide and excited. "Ride him? Really... I could do that?" she marvelled as she looked at the huge horse, trying to picture herself on his back. "Well, if I have enough time..." She tilted her head to look at the sky. It was still several hours til noon, and she wouldn't be missed until then at the earliest.

"I think I do..." she paused. "Yes, alright, I would love that, please."

He smiled, feeling pleased with himself. Then a spot of realization hit him. 'How is she ever going to get on top of him? I'm going to pick her up. Oh I hope she doesn't get upset about this.'

Biting his lip, he stood and bowed his head to her. "Forgive me for this." Then, moving quickly he lifted her up and placed her on Ylli's back. His hands remained securely around her waist as the horse finally stood, placing her higher than Iorwerth.

"Don't worry now. I'm going to keep my hand around your waist so you don't fall. Ylli won't go faster than a slow walk. If at any time you feel that you want to get down, just let me know and I'll help you down. If you want something to hang onto you can grip his mane, albeit gently. He won't mind if a few tugs. Are you alright? Should we start going?"

Lotte gasped aloud as she found herself being hoisted into the air and onto Ylli. She slipped on the horse's smooth back and instinctively reached for his neck, hands buried in his mane. Listening to Iorwerth, she nodded carefully and loosened her grip on the mane, smoothing the hair under her fingers.

"I'm alright," she said, looking at the ground warily. It suddenly seemed a long way down, but how many times in her life would she have such an opportunity.

"Alright, let's go." She smiled at Iorwerth, nervous but excited.

The "human" centaur placed one of his hands over top of Lotte's giving it a friendly squeeze before letting go. "Alright here we go," he informed her, starting to lead Ylli through and extremely slow walk. Iorwerth could feel the gentle sway of the beast against his side and reflexively tightened his hold around the woman's waist.

"So," he fished trying to make conversation, "what brings you to the park so early to dance? Did you have a performance later or something?"

Lotte was grateful for the strong arm around her waist as the horse started moving. She hadn't counted on the sway of the horse's back and the way his shoulders moved against her legs, so it took a few moments before she felt secure enough to enjoy the ride.

"Um... not exactly. I don't dance for anyone yet." She responded awkwardly to Iorwerth's question. "But I'm trying to learn to dance nicely so that maybe one day I can. As for this early... well it's the only time I'm allowed out, so that I won't be missed." She gave a little sad smile, thinking about the duties that would come later.

Iorwerth clucked his tongue and shook his head. "Well for what it's worth, I think you are a wonderful dancer. You really should dance for others. I would come and see you, that is, if you would let me. I wouldn't want to embarrass you," he amended.

He let his head drop a bit as he gave a low sigh. 'I'm an idiot. I just made her sad for some reason. Way to go Iorwerth! Reasons why you don't have a ladyfriend. Congratulations, you are now doomed to always be alone.' Beside him Ylli nickered and butting his head against his human arm. "Do you work in a tavern or something? I forget that people tend to have more stable jobs than my own. A traveling bard just makes do with what he has," he chuckled nervously, running his hand along the back of his neck.

She smiled sweetly at his compliment, glancing at him in some surprise as he mentioned coming to see her. Ah... he doesn't know what I am, she reminded herself. He doesn't know what he would have to be doing to see me dance... I'm sure he would be horrified if he did know.
But aloud, she just said, "Thank you," and smiled again.

"A tavern? No, I work at..." she hesitated. He had asked now; she would have to tell him. "At the Cherry Tree." There it was - if he had spent any amount of time in Uthlyn, he would know what it was.

((OOC: don't mind the terrible name for a brothel - I have no imagination xP))

Thick brows furrowed in confusion. "At the Cherry Tree? Is that some kind of flowershop or something?" Iorwerth was innocent to the going-ons of other mortals and their desires of the flesh. While a native of Connlaoth it was not hard to believe that he had not heard of the renowned place. His many travels did not allow him to stay in one place for long and to be fair Connlaoth was a very big place.

"When do you have to return Lady Lotte? I could escort you back on my fine steed," he tried in an attempt to lighten the mood. 'Maybe I should tell her a story. No! Stories are for children. She wouldn't be interested. Would she? I'll just sound like a fool for suggesting it. Better keep quiet. No harm comes from silence.

A flowershop? Lotte's brow furrowed. Was he making fun of her again? Surely he knew that the place was - and even if not, was he being serious? She bit her lip as he spoke again, trying to calculate what time she would have to return.

"I will have to be back around noon, I think. So I have maybe another two hours, or a little less. I would like to stay with you until then, though," she smiled shyly. If you still want to, after this.

"The Cherry Tree... is a brothel."

All the color drained from Iorwerth's face as what she was saying finally hit him. 'A brothel. Dear god, I've made an ass of myself.' His eyes were nearly bugging out of his head as he tried to think of something to say.

"Ah," he finally said, biting his laugh and laughing nervously, the sound resembling that of a horse. "Well a different sort of flowershop then. One with flowers much more precious and beautiful than their leafy counterparts. You are of course welcome to pass the time with me fair lady, for as long as you find enjoyment in my company. Say the word and I will begone. But, keep your silence and I shall stay, for your company I do enjoy."

Lotte held her breath as she saw Iorwerth go pale. That's it, he's horrified. I knew it was only a matter of time. I don't know what I expected differently, though - everyone in Uthlyn looks down upon us, if they do not use us. Iorwerth's nervous laugh only served to encourage her worry, but his words went some way to reassure her.

"Precious and beautiful?" she said doubtfully, looking down at him. "Well... that's one way of looking at it? Although I know what the opinion of people in Uthlyn is - I am used to it." She gave a tiny sigh, and was about to say more when she thought through what he had said. "Keep your silence and I will stay".

She smiled. "I will be silent, then."

Iorwerth blushed as he realized that he had just about commanded her into silence. "Well, wait Lotte," he rushed to say, pulling Ylli to a stop and looking up at the woman atop him. "I didn't mean it like that. I mean I did. I did but, I didn't. Please don't think you need to be quiet just because you want to spend some time with me. Feel free to talk. Talk as much as you want. Or as little. Really it makes no difference to me. I-I think I'll just follow my own advice and be silent now."

Lotte laughed, the first time she had done so properly since they met. "Don't worry. I wasn't offended." She reached down to pat Iorwerth's shoulder gently, reassuringly. This sweet man was beginning to endear himself to her, as he stumbled over his words and tried desperately not to offend her.

"It's nice to be given the choice of whether or not I want to speak to a man," she said honestly. "It can be a rare privelege to make up my own mind."

He almost began to sigh in relief, then she went and had to mention her lack of freedom. His jaw slammed shut with an audible click as he mentally berated himself for being so foolish and callous. "Then, Lady Lotte, let me have the honor of allowing you to afford as many of those opportunities as you desire. No want of yours shall go unfulfilled if I can help it."

Iorwerth sighed sadly again, lowering his head. "Forgive me," he whispered. "I oft make grand statements but I am a ce-creature of simple means. I am afraid I can only offer you small comforts. It was never my intention to deceive even for the briefest of moments. I must beg your forgiveness in this matter."

Lotte giggled at his fancy address, quite enjoying being made to feel important. She tilted her head to one side as she worked through his next statements, taking a moment to understand what he meant. As soon as she realised she blushed, embarassed that he was ashamed on her behalf.

"The best comforts to me are being able to stay outside and see nature. I spend all my time cooped up indoors, so being able to just walk the streets and paths is pleasurable. As well as being able to choose my own company... and talk to a gentleman like yourself." She smiled.

"And of course, his horse."

"Gentleman?" Iorwerth gave a braying laugh before clapping a calloused hand over his mouth. "Forgive me," he mumbled coughing and clearing his throat. 'Nice going peabrain!' Beside him Ylli gave a mocking whinny. "Oh, hush you!" The man glared at the animal before returning his attention to the woman.

He bowed before the lady, well as best as he could while still holding her waist. "I thank you for the compliment but must refute, I am far from being a gentleman. I am but a humble uh man. However, be that as it may I know of a small brook nearby where there is shade if you would care to venture there. I often go there to recount my bardic tales to eager children. It is a lovely place that would be made even moreso with your shining presence."

Iorwerth's  laugh and the horse's whinny made Lotte giggle again, even more so when the man rebuked Ylli. Flushed from laughing, she reflected briefly, happily, that she couldn't remember the last time she had laughed so much, or so honestly.

"I'd like that." She nodded, a pleased smile lighting up her face. "That sounds very nice, and comfortable. Will you tell me some of your tales, when we get there?"

A smile answered her own as Iorwerth led them through the park to a more secluded area surrounded by willow trees. "It's best if I let you down now little lady. The moment Ylli sees water I'll no longer be in control in him. He's a real mule when it comes to that," he informed her, reaching up to slowly slide her back down.

His hands still gently held her forearms before he realized their closeness and pulled away, clearing his throat. "So how did you like your first ride?" The man moved to continue leading them to the water. He could already hear the babbling stream bouncing of the rocks. Just as he claimed the moment Ylli saw the clear water he took off to go splashing.

Lotte rested her hands on one of Iorwerth's shoulder's as he lifted her down, running them down to rest on his forearms as he did she same. She smiled up at him shyly as he stood still, waiting to see what he would do. When he moved away she did the same, gazing around their surroundings.

"I loved it... it was so different from anything I've done before! I was-" she cut off as they came in sight of the brook, her eyes widening in pleasure.

"Oh, this is beautiful! What a lovely stream." Overtaken by such a pretty scene she reached for Iorwerth's hand, suddenly clasping it in hers.

A sense of pride bloomed in Iorwerth's chest from making her happy. This was quickly turned into shock and then pleased surprise as she slipped her much smaller hand into his behemoth one. For a brief moment he looked down at their clasped hands and then internally shrugged and Lotte's a friendly squeeze.

"I'm delighted that enjoy it. My only warning is to stay away from Ylli if you don't want to get wet. That horse has a way of splashing water over long distances in the pretense of mischief. He's as bad as any child I tell you! Come sit here and I believe we shall be safe," he suggested leading them over to the "story stone" as the children named it. It was a large flat stone, the perfect size for a full-grown centaur to sit or lay across.

Iorwerth made no move to remove his hand from around her own. On the contrary he held it a little tighter as he plopped himself down. "Are you still sure you wish to hear a story? They are really more meant for children. A grown man can get away with silly tales told to a child. It is much more difficult to enthrall the adult mind."

He was nervous, unsure of whether she was just indulging him or generally interested. 'Oh what if she does want a story? What one do I tell her that won't sound incredibly childish? Everything is childish unless it has death and even then that's not the kind of thing you recount to a lady. Please say no, please say no.'

Lotte let herself be led along by Iorwerth, avoiding the water as he had warned. It wouldn't do her any good to return to the brothel with wet clothes, as that would surely bring on a punishment. She settled herself beside him carefully, tucking her legs under her on the soft grass.

"I would love to hear a story," she smiled up at Iorwerth, brushing off his concerns. "Children's stories are so simple and innocent - why complicate something when it doesn't need it? Please don't worry, I will enjoy it."

'And she said yes.' Rubbing his eye to hide his embarrassment he tried to think of something innocuous to tell. "Well, you know if you like innocent, I have the most childish story you will probably ever hear. Just," he held up his hand pleadingly, "remember that while I am a grown man this is told to very small children."

He have a great sigh and rubbed his hands together, clearing his throat. Iorwerth raised his hands up in front of himself as if to call silence. "This is is the story of Mister Wiggle," he moved his left hand into a thumbs up, "and Mister Waggle," his right hand also assumed the same position. Both thumbs both came to "hide" inside his fists as he began the tale. "Twas a bright and beautiful day and Mister Wiggle decided he was going to go to Mister Waggle's house. So he opened his door," the left hand opened, "came out of his house," the left thumb popped up, "and closed his door," the hand closed again with the raised thumb outside it now. "And he went up the hill and down the hill and up the hill and down the hill until at last he came to Mister Waggle's house."

Iorwerth was completely engrossed in his story-telling. His eyes followed his hands movements intently drawing the listener to do the same. He even had different voices for the characters and the narration. "Mister Wiggle knocked on the door. Knock, knock, knock. But, there was no answer. So he knocked again, knock, knock, knock. Again no answer so he decided to go back home and try another day. And so he went up the hill and down the hill and up the hill and down the hill until at last he came to his own house. He opened the door, went inside, and closed the door.

"The next day Mister Waggle finding it to be a fine day decided he was going to go across the hills and visit Mister Wiggle. He opened his door, came out of his house and closed his door. Then he went up the hill and down the hill and up the hill and down the hill until at last he came to Mister Wiggle's house. Mister Waggle knocked on the door. Knock, knock, knock. But, there was no answer. So he knocked again, knock, knock, knock. Again no answer so he decided to go back home and try another day. And so he went up the hill and down the hill and up the hill and down the hill until at last he came to his own house. He opened the door, went inside, and closed the door.

"On the third day, Mister Wiggle and Mister Waggle noticed that it was a wonderful day out and decided they were going to visit Mister Waggle's and Mister Wiggle's house. And they went, up the hill and down the hill and up the hill and down the hill until at last they met each other at the crossroads. 'Well if isn't Mister Waggle!' the left thumb said "wiggling" as he "spoke." 'And if it isn't Mister Wiggle!' the right thumb answered.

'It's a fine day out today.'
'Aye tis indeed and I was on my way to see you.'
'Curiouser and curiouser I was on my way to see you!
'And how are you on this glorious day?'
'I am well and yourself?'
'Oh just the usual aches and pains. The weather should make up for it nicely I think.'
'That's wonderful to hear. My good Mister Waggle, I am afraid I must be off again. It's time I should be returning home.'
'Aye I do agree Mister Wiggle. Tis nearing teatime and the Missus won't take to me bein' late. A good day to you Mister Wiggle!'
'And a good day to ye Mister Waggle.'

"Having said their goodbyes the two worms, Mister Wiggle and Mister Waggle, went up the hill and down the hill and up the hill and down the hill until at last they came to their respective homes. They opened their doors, went inside, and closed the doors. Each worm had his tea and Mister Waggle even made it home in time to keep the Missus happy. So ends our of tale of Mister Wiggle and Mister Waggle."

Having finished, Iorwerth blushed heavily at being caught so enthralled. With children it did not matter, for they loved a good story as much as him. But, with this beautiful woman sitting with him and enjoying his company when she could be doing so many other things in the little precious time she had to herself, he felt rather foolish and childish. His cheeks flamed and lowered his head in shame. "It's a silly tale I know. Who ever heard of a talking worm and having tea at that," he scoffed trying to protect his pride.

Lotte sat quietly during the story, completely engrossed in Iorwerth's tale. Her fascination was childlike as she followed the movements of the 'characters' and laughed as Iorwerth put on the voices. The pleasure of storytime was one that she had been denied, growing up in the circumstances that she had, and so she was more keen than usual on hearing simple tales.

She laughed delightedly as the story finished, clapping her small hands together. "Wonderful!" She beamed up at Iorwerth, her eyes shining with pleasure.

"It was so much fun. And you told it so well!" She took his hand again as he blushed, trying to reassure him.

He squeezed her hand back and smiled indulgently. "Well, I'm glad you enjoyed it, even if it was a silly tale. Perhaps another time I can grace you with a true bardic retelling. I must admit though I am not feeling at the top of my game as it were. Me poor thumbs are sore," Iorwerth pouted, wiggling his free thumb.

"Well, tell my something about yourself little lady. You are quite a mystery, the little sunshine dancer." His eyes and tone were kind and without a mocking trace to them. He ran his thumb back and forth over the back of her hand in a soothing matter. Iorwerth wanted nothing more than to enclose the delicate flesh between both his hands and never let go. Fear of caging her stopped him though. "You don't have to if you don't wish to. No one is forcing you here."

Lotte smiled only slightly, unsure as Iorwerth invited her to tell him about herself. "I don't know... I don't have any stories that will make you happy or cause you to laugh like that. All my stories are sad ones." She paused and looked down at Iorwerth's hand caressing hers and felt her confidence building. He seemed honestly curious, and unlikely to judge. She might as well share some information with him

"I grew up in The Cherry Tree. I've lived there almost from the day that I was born... I took my first steps there and spoke my first words to the madam. I suppose I'm lucky - the girls are my family, like sisters. Well, sisters that you have to compete with for a living." She laughed slightly.

"I'm afraid it doesn't make for an exciting story."

Despite the sadness and pain of the story, Iorwerth found himself to smile. "The first lesson of a bard is to know that not every story that is told is a happy one. For what is happiness, but the joy we feel after we have experienced some hardship. The pain reminds us of how precious the small things are. Your smile for instance is a story all of its own for it brings me joy. Your dancing is another, for it gave me courage to greet you."

He opened his mouth to say more, but changed his mind and patted the top of her hand. "The second lesson of telling stories is one I have failed to follow through on." Iorwerth brought her bound hands up to his lips and pressed a gentle kiss to the top of each. "Always thank a teller for their tale for they have given you a bit of themselves to carry with you always. I thank you Lady Lotte for your tale."

Lotte's cheeks were red as Iorwerth complimented her, her face burning with embarassment. She was glad that he continued to talk, for the moment letting her off the hook of saying anything. As he lifted her hands she held them close together, the short chain clinking and knotting around itself as she did. This somewhat undermined the effect she had been going for - her intention was to hide the chain (although nothing could be done about the heavy silver bangles) but she feared that the tangling chain would only draw attention to itself.

"You're welcome." She spoke to mask her embarassment, still humbled by his flattery, and drew her hands away, tucking them into her lap. "Thank you, likewise, for your tale."

"My pleasure," he replied humbly. It did not escape him that her silver chain made her uncomfortable and embarrassed. He refrained from commenting or drawing further attention to it. Iorwerth racked his brain, searching for an innocuous topic of conversation that would leave them both feeling comfortable. 'I have so little to offer, so little to talk about. I don't want to pry but what else is there to ask but personal things? If only I could-well I could, couldn't I?'

He cleared his throat lightly. "If we could meet again, after this day and you wanted to of course, what would you like to do? What new thing would you like to experience? No matter how far out or fantastical, choose anything you want." His lips widened into an enormous smile as he turned his face up towards the sky. "Personally, one day I want to fly a dragon." Iorwerth laughed at his own idea. 'I would love to climb a tree to but, Ylli would have a fit. Heights are such a bothersome thing anyway.'

"A dragon? Are they even real?" Lotte laughed. She had heard of dragons, seen pictures of them, but she wasn't sure that they really existed. And if they did, they looked frightening! Although flying would be so freeing, so exhillarating. Her face turned wistful as she though of her wish.

"I'd like to leave Uthlyn - even if it was just once, just for a day. I want to see what's outside the city limits! I don't even know what it looks like outside the city." Her eyes brightened a little.

"And I want to swim! Someone told me that there is a giant pool, that stretches as far as you can see, where people have boats and where all kinds of creatures live." Of course, she was talking about the sea, but it was such an abstract concept to her.

Iorwerth chuckled. "So I've heard. But, then again you are talking to a bard. How reliable is the word of a teller of tales?" His eyes danced in quiet laughter and joy at her enthusiasm. 'So simple a wish, to leave. One I can understand. But, little one what would you find in the world? It is not as you think. Things are far worse out there than the relative safety of a brothel. Although, who knows what horrors you may have already faced.'

"The sea? I have yet to see it myself in my travels. Despite my ever desire to leave this place I always manage to return home sooner rather than later. Home is here, no matter the hardship that drives me away, I can never stay for long. This land is the woman that calls my weary heart back home. But, have you truly never been swimming before? Or is it you just want to do so in a fair amount of water?"

He was curious as he glanced over in Ylli's direction to check on the playing horse. 'I could teach her to swim. Better not mention it. I don't want to upset her. It is not my place. We barely know each other. Keep cool Iorwerth, she is trained to act this way. She is only humoring you.'

"That's nice." Lotte smiled as he talked about his love for the city. "I have never left, so I don't know what it would be like to leave... maybe I would find myself drawn back, too. It is my home, after all."

She shook her head as he questioned her. "I have never had chance to learn. Sometimes I have paddled in the pools around the city, when I have enough time off. But I can't actually swim, I suppose." Her cheeks blushed a faint pink as she admitted to her lack of ability.

He smiled down at her and winked. "No worries, most people I have met can't swim. But, with Ylli, it's not like I had much of a choice. Dam-excuse me, silly horse wouldn't have it any other way." Hearing his name, the great equine raised his head and snorted. He whickered and trotted over to his "master."

Iorwerth looked up at the sky and frowned. "It's getting late. Oh, how the time passes. Shall I escort you back Lady Lotte? I would not wish you to be in trouble on my behalf," he said moving to his feet.

Lotte's laugh turned to alarm as Iorwerth drew her attention to the time. Jerking her head up she gazed at the sky, where the sun was swiftly reaching the high point in the sky. She leapt to her feet, her earlier flush deepening in panic.

"Yes! I must get back! The others will be awake soon, and I must assist them. Yes, please do escort me, I would like to say goodbye at the gate." She smiled shyly, an idea forming in her mind.

He bowed low before her. "Your wish is my command oh beautiful lady. I think it would be faster if we walked. It wouldn't do for you riding Ylli anyway. He'd just get your skirts soaked and that wouldn't be fair to you."

Tentatively, Iorwerth reached out for her hand and gently clasped it within his own. "The path is just this way," he informed her as he began to lead Lotte away. "I had great fun this morning. Thank you for honoring me with your presence."

When they at last arrived at the park gate he bowed again before her. "Good day to you fair one. May our paths cross again." The "human" took her hands and kissed the backs of both of them before giving them a friendly squeeze and releasing them. "I pray that we may meet again. I enjoyed your company greatly."

"So did I," Lotte entwined her fingers with Iorwerth's as they walked towards the edge of the park, her heart sinking as she thought of the afternoon ahead of her. It had been such an enjoyable morning, but now there was a long afternoon of chores, and a longer evening of work in store. She chewed on her lip - carefully, so as not to break the skin - as they got closer to parting.

Before long they were at the park gates, the brothel within a few moments walk from her. As Iorwerth released her hands she hesitated, then moved forwards, stretching upwards to kiss his cheek.

"I don't know when I will be able to get out again. If you want to see me again, come to the Cherry Tree tonight. At seven." The words came out in a rush, and then she was gone, whisking around the corner and back to her home.

The man blushed darkly, frozen in place from shock. 'She-she kissed me! Heavens above, I think I feel faint. Wait, she wants to see me again. At work?' Confusion displayed greatly on Iorwerth's face but it was too late, Lotte was already gone. Even if she had stayed he doubted he would have had the courage to ask her what she meant by that.

Behind him Ylli grunted, fiercely knocking his head against the human shoulder. Distracted, Iorwerth mounted his steed and became one with him, once more returning to his true form. It was a miracle no one saw him.

"What am I going to do, what am I going to do?" he bemoaned aloud, dragging his hands down across his face. "She wants to meet me. That means she likes me. But, she wants to meet at seven at her work. She works at a brothel. I'm doomed." He took to digging his fingers into his eyes as his hooves led him back to the stream.

When he at last arrived he flopped his large girth down upon the even bigger stone and wailed. "I'm done for!" Hyperventilating now, he continued, "I don't know how to talk to a woman. What about this, this thing, this body? She doesn't know! If she ever found out-oh!" His voice trailed off into a series of loud unintelligible gibberish. Iorwerth waved his hand about frantically while he babbled before collapsing back exhausted.

Slowly his breathing slowed as he tried to think things through logically. 'If she was implying she wanted to just enjoy my company, then I need to remain the perfect gentleman and inform her my time is limited. I cannot stay apart from Ylli too long and I have already done that once today. If however, she wants me as a client then again I must be a perfect gentleman and decline. Or I could just not go and solve that entirely. I've never been with a woman before,' popped into his head before he could stop it.

"No, not going there!" Iorwerth sat up and sighed. "Right she said seven that's only," he looked up at the sky, "too many hours. Guess I'll just uh, clean up. I need to do that whether I go or not. Yeah," he sighed again. It centaur's decision to use the remaining time to decide his next course of action.

The afternoon was a busy one for Lotte. The girls had already started to wake up when she arrived back - although luckily, she had not been missed - and she was in demand. The afternoon started by helping the most senior girls to bathe, washing their hair and tending to their skin whilst they chattered and joked amongst themselves. Lotte had time only for a quick bath for herself, going about many of her housekeeping duties still wrapped in a towel, her hair damp around her shoulders.

Dinner at the house was served early, to give the girls time to prepare themselves for a night of work. The house was loud again as all doors were propped open and they shouted between them, borrowing outfits and makeup, and speculating about the night to come. Lotte scurried from room to room to help, pinning up a hairpiece here, putting the final touches to makeup there. She barely had a chance to rest as she helped those who ranked above her, but the hope of seeing Iorwerth again kept her going.

Soon, it was evening, and the girls gathered in the large lounge downstairs. Some of the eldest and most beautiful had prior arrangements, going out to entertain important gentlemen, but the rest would wait. Lotte was among them, her own toilet now attended to. Her hair was down and in soft curls, framing the face that had been made from childish to youthful and pretty. She was wearing a pink slip, a hand-me-down from a friend, and delicate white pumps.

She stood at the end of the row now, twisting a piece of ribbon around her fingers nervously, as she listened to the madam gossip with the eldest girls. Will he come?

The hours of indecision flew by. Before Iorwerth knew it, it was nearing seven o'clock and he still had not come up with what he was going to do. 'I shouldn't go. I could get caught and found out or worse, I could become trapped without Ylli. It's best this way. I'll just explain it somehow to her, that is if I ever see her again,' he assured himself even as hooves began to lead him to the park gates.

He stared wide-eyed at the park exit. 'What are you doing Iorwerth? Oh boy, what am I doing?' More cautious than earlier, the centaur shifted forms, returinging to horse and rider. "Well Ylli, here goes nothing." Steeling himself, he led the creature, the literal other half of his sould, to the mysterious "Cherry Tree."

Entering the building sent Iorwerth's heart into his stomach. He nearly turned tail and ran right then and there. All the women flaunting their bodies and hiding their true beauty behind painted masks made him sick, not with disgust, but with pity. 'Heavens what am I doing here?' He wrung his hands nervously and cleared his throat. "Excuse me, I'm looking for Lady Lotte." His voice cracked, making Iorwerth want to bolt in fear. 'I need to leave. I shouldn't have come. This was a very bad idea.'

Iorwerth's nervous call was answered by the house madam, a tall woman in her fifties, as she came bustling through the door to the entrance hall. She was striking-looking, and it was apparent that in her youth she had been beautiful, although by now her beauty had settled into a more mature handsomeness. She wore fine clothes and jewellery, although they were simple, and a kind smile was on her face. She was used to all sorts of client, and the nervous men, who weren't quite sure if they should be there, were regularly among them. His request, however, had confused her.

"Lotte?" No one came looking for Lotte. She was a girl who kept herself to herself and didn't have suitors, much less repeat clients. The madam's eyebrows raised for a split second, before her professional demeanour was back in place. She cast a glance over Iorwerth, trying to gauge his financial situation.

"Follow me sir." Bowing slightly, she led the way into the lounge, holding the door open for him. It was in this room that many of the girls were still gathered, Lotte among them.

"Two bronze per half hour, sir." As she stated the price - so low for such a young girl - she stepped aside, allowing Iorwerth to step into the room.

He did not like the way woman, the madam he assumed, said Lotte's name. 'Such disgust, such disdain, it's unbelievable! Lotte is a sweet young woman from what I can tell, she doesn't deserve such degrading. Then again, who am I to say let alone think such things? Wait, money?'

Iorwerth's faced darkened as a feeling of having the wind knocked out of him froze him in place. "Uh-uh-excuse me I-I'm not-I mean," he trailed off and sighed. 'I'm going to get her in trouble if I keep this up. I'll figure out how to get the money later.'

Resigned, he smiled and nodded his head as he entered. "Thank you fair lady." Looking out into the room made him feel more and more out of place. 'Why am I doing this?' Iorwerth ran his hand across the back of his neck nervously. 'If only I wasn't so tall,' he mused, noting how he towered over the others as he looked for her. "Lotte?"

Hearing Iorwerth's voice from her place at the back of the room, Lotte came hurrying forwards. Her face lit up as she saw him and she broke apart from the cluster of girls, coming to a halt just in front of Iorwerth.

"Sir Iorwerth," she spoke formally and gave a ladylike curtsey, but when she looked up to meet Iorwerth's eyes there was an excited shine in hers. They seemed to communicate a secret happiness as she took his hand between both of hers and curtseyed again.

"Thank you, Madam Derica." She turned to the madam silently, and an odd look passed between the two women before she led Iorwerth out of the room.

"My room is at the top of the house." She gestured, and led Iorwerth up a narrow staircase. Soon they reached the top of the building, and she passed into her room. It was small but cosy, decorated with soft furnishings. Closing the door behind them, she turned to Iorwerth and let herself smile properly for the first time.

Iorwerth had no idea what was going on here. His eyes darted back and forth between the pair of women before he gave in and followed Lotte. He kept casting furtive glances back over his shoulder as they ascended the creaking staircase.

The moment she had the door closed he lost his cool. "What just happened? What is going on? I-I-I, y-yo-you, I mean ARG!" He clapped his hands over his face and groaned. "I'm rubbish at talking. Can you explain to me because I'm not getting," he waved his arms around frantically at the room and at them, "this."

Lotte frowned in confusion. Why was he so upset? The calm, kind man that she had met earlier seemed to have been replaced by this stressed, angry stranger. She moved slowly to sit on her bed, watching Iorwerth cautiously.

"I - this is my home. I know it's a brothel, and it's not much, but it's all I have. I'm sorry. It's just that earlier... you seemed like you wanted to see me again." Her cheeks burned as she worked through her explanations. He had seemed keen to see her, seemed like he liked her - but had she got it all wrong?

"This is the only way I could. You won't be charged for your time here... I'm sorry if I misunderstood." She chewed on her lip again, huddling up by her pillow.

He opened his mouth to speak and closed it with a sigh. Coming to kneel before Lotte he took her smaller hands within his own. "I did and still do want to spend time with you. In the short hours I have known you I have come to see you not as stranger but as friend. I am honored to be invited into your home. However, I was unsure of your intentions at the time and only just now had them made clear."

The beaming smile of earlier returned as he gave her hands a light squeeze. "I had feared you did not see me the same and only wished me as client. In which case I had come to inform you that I could not bring myself to dirty you in such a way. The most beautiful blossom I have ever laid eyes on should not be marred by my touch. Although, I would gladly pay to enjoy your company as it stands now, for to bask in your presence is to dine with the gods. Thank you Lady Lotte for your great gift to me. I am truly blessed."

Lotte breathed a sigh of relief as Iorwerth spoke - glad that she hadn't totally misunderstood the situation or Iorwerth's intentions. She frowned a little at the word 'client' but let it go, knowing that he didn't mean anything by it. Her eyes misted a little as he continued speaking. She had never been spoken to quite like this before - yes, she had been complimented, flattered even, by men in the past, but never had she met someone who honestly seemed to believe that she was something more.

Unable to speak, she just smiled as he finished speaking, swallowing. Impulsively, she leaned forward and touched his cheek with her hand. The next moment her lips met his for a brief second, before she pulled away, blushing nervously.

Iorwerth was completely caught by surprise by Lotte's spontaneity. His cheeks flamed dark crimson and a soft gasp escaped his lips. "Heavens," he whispered dazedly. "Um, thank you?" He was in too much shock to really know how to respond. While had kissed before, it had only been in his younger years, long before he took up his bardic tellings.

'What do I do? How do I tell her? What does it mean? Is that friendship or more? What if it is more? I can't do more? She doesn't know Iorwerth, she mustn't know. What does she want from me? What does she expect? I cannot give her that if that is what she seeks. Should I go? Should I stay? If I go I may never see her again. If I stay I never leave. Always with her it is "what do I do?" Always.' He squeezed her hands gently again and smiled before letting her go and sitting back on his haunches.

Lotte smiled uncertainly as Iorwerth thanked her, tilting her head to one side. She hadn't expected that reaction - well, she hadn't really known what reaction to expect.

"I hope you don't think that was out of line," she ventured softly, patting his hands as he released hers. "It's just... you said such lovely things, and I'm not used to hearing anything like that." She blushed a little at this admission. "We are not permitted to kiss clients... but friends are a whole different category."

She laughed nervously, hoping that this would set him more at ease.

"What a pity then," he replied. "You should be told such things on a daily basis. But, I will tell you a secret," he leaned in close and darted his eyes about as if to catch someone eavesdropping, "I'm not used to being kissed by such divine beings such as yourself, fair lady."

His heart lightened slightly at the knowledge she shared with him. "Just don't get yourself in trouble Lotte. I would never forgive myself if I ever caused you trouble. Speaking of which, how are you going to get out of my paying for your time. The madam will be furious with you I'm sure. I can't let that happen. I'll," Iorwerth bit his lip and sighed. "I'll pay. I don't want you in trouble because of me." He was internally kicking himself, knowing that he had no way of paying. 'I'll figure it out, somehow.'

Lotte giggled as he whispered the 'secret', flattered. Her smile remained on her face as Iorwerth went on to express his concerns.

"No, it's really alright. We have an understanding, Madam Derica and I." She thought for a moment. "You see, I have lived here since I was a baby - Madam Derica is as good as my mama. She is strict with me, because she has to be, but secretly I think she is fond of me. She knows I have no acquaintances or friends, but some of the other girls entertain friends and lovers here - for a price - or out in the city on their own time. Because I do not have my own time, Madam Derica has let me know that I may bring my friends here... if ever I have one." She laughed. "She will not charge you."

She patted the bed beside her, inviting Iorwerth to sit. "I have a secret to tell you too..." she giggled again as she repeated his earlier words. "I liked kissing you." Her playful whisper was so low he would have to strain to hear it.

"Ah," Iorwerth replied, at a loss for words. "Well then," he moved to sit beside her. "As a friend what would you like to do Lotte?" He had heard what her secret was and chose not to comment on it. The blush darkening his cheeks was enough of a statement to show both his excitement and his embarrassment. His shy nature was truly coming out when he was around her.

'It makes no sense. All these years performing for audiences and yet five minutes with her and I become unintelligible mush. Oh fair lady what you do to me. How you will hate me when you know the truth. As others before you, you will turn and run. Remember Iorwerth even the most genteel and compassionate woman can become a demon when faced with the truth. The truth, what a cruel world lady fate. Cruel indeed.'

Lotte smiled brightly as Iorwerth sat beside her and tucked her legs up, settling into a more comfortable position. Seeing his blush she hesitated a little before making her request. She didn't want to push him out of his comfort zone, but she was curious.

"I would like to talk... I would like to hear about you, Iorwerth. You already know a little of my story," she gestured around the room vaguely. "But all I know of you is that you are a bard, who can tell the most delightful stories. Tell me one of those stories about yourself."

He nodded his head, keeping the sigh of relief silent and to himself. "Talking is good. I can do talking. Although beware, I just might talk your ear off," he teased, gently nudging her with his elbow. "Hmm a story about myself."

Internally Iorwerth was panicking slightly as he racked his brain for something innocuous he could tell her. "Well, uh unfortunately this won't be a very elegant tale. I don't tell stories about myself much. Guess I'm not very interesting," he chuckled, shrugging his shoulders.

"I'm from Connlaoth although I can't say I remember where specifically. We always were on the move when I was growing up. I guess being a bard was a good profession for me then. We were a small family unit, my mother and I. It was nice growing up, running in the fields, acting like an idiot." He laughed at the memory, sobering as he recalled his mother's death.

"Mother and I got separated when I was older. She went her way and I went mine. I became a bard and have been that way with Ylli ever since." He shrugged again and looked to the side. "Not much to tell really."

"That sounds nice." Lotte was leaning in towards Iorwerth as she listened to his tale, smiling as she pictured the lifestyle. "You must have felt so free, running in the fields like that. So you never really lived in a city?" She pictured Uthlyn with its tall buildings and walls, wondering what it would be like to not be surrounded by them.

"Oh, of course, Ylli!" She clapped her hands at the mention of the horse. "Where is he tonight? How did you meet him?"

Iorwerrth shrugged his shoulders noncommittally. "I guess you could say it was freeing. But, we all have our own cages though." He looked to the side and gave a brief smile before looking forward again. 'Stupid man! She was chained when you met her. At least your only shackles were those of fear and repression and not cold silver.'

"I didn't live in the cities until I was much older. My mother didn't like them. She said it was too barring, too cloying. Funny really, I always felt the same about the fields and forests.

"But," he sighed, sitting up straighter. "You asked about Ylli. My faithful steed is outside probably trying to get himself in trouble, silly horse that he is." Iorwerth chuckled nervously as he tried to come up with an explanation as to how he meet his "horse."

'Of course she asks that! Heavens what do I say?' He cleared his throat to stall further. "Well Ylli and I have been together as long as I can remember. We have always been one and the same, one mind, one soul, one body. We would die without each other. I rely on him as I rely on myself. It was the same for my mother and her own horse. Call me weird, but that's the way it is. Forgive me Lotte, could I happen to have a glass of water? I seem to have a tickle in my throat." He coughed for emphasis when in truth he was just trying to change subjects. 'Crisis averted.'

Lotte was listening intently, fascinated by the slice of life that Iorwerth was showing her. The varieties of life that she was shown by clients always interested her, but there was something special about Iorwerth. Perhaps it was how he acted towards her in every way that set him apart from the men she normally saw - his manner was so different, his speech and actions so respectful - but whatever it was, it was drawing her to him.

She was about to ask further about Ylli when he asked for a drink. "Oh! Of course..." She stood up and went to the other side of the room, where a basin of fresh water had been set out. After dipping a cup into the cool water she returned and handed it to him before settling back down.

"So, you are ... bonded, in a way?" she asked curiously. "I used to know a girl who was bonded to a hawk. If they moved too far apart from each other, they would both be weakened until eventually.. well, I suppose she would have died." She fell quiet for a moment, remembering this acquaintance.

"Is that what you have with Ylli?"

He wiped furiously at his face when Lotte's back was turned to him to remove the sweat that was beginning to bead on his brow. "Thank you," he whispered politely, receiving the cool cup with both hands. Iorwerth drank slowly, letting the refreshing liquid run across his tongue and down his throat drop by drop.

'How do I tell her? How much do I tell her? Can I trust her? This place, I have heard that walls have ears. Does the same hold true here? I could be caught for this. I could be killed for this! Nothing for it, I have to say something.'

"I guess you could say that it is like that, bonding I mean. Ylli and I are linked in a very special way. We are one and we would not survive being separate for very long. But, I would not have it any other way. Enough about me though. Tell me more about you my divine goddess. How did you come to like dancing? How did you get to be so graceful and talented? Did you have lessons? You are an art to behold."

"That's lovely." Lotte smiled curiously as Iorwerth explained his bond with Ylli. She wanted to ask further questions, but was no stranger to the uncomfortable evasiveness that he was exhibiting. Unwilling to make him more anxious, she accepted the change of topic, blushing as she began to talk about herself.

"I have always liked to dance, although I have never been very good at it... I used to watch the older girls dancing when I was tiny, and tried to copy their steps. I've never had lessons though, I cannot afford that." She shrugged. "I hope that one day, if I hone my talents enough, I may be able to get out of here." Her voice was low but clear as she admitted this secret wish.

Iorwerth smiled kindly, placing one of his hands overtop of hers. "I know you will, you're nearly there now Lotte. A little faith, a little trust, a lot of hardwork and a little m-" he froze as he nearly said magic. 'Even she can betray you, boy. Steady now, you don't want to die, not even for her. You don't know her, remember that. You don't know her.'

"A little mental exercise can get you very far. I believe in you Lotte. I know, not think, but actually know that you will achieve it." He smiled shyly before spontaneously leaning over and giving her a one-armed hug. "Believe in yourself little Lotte. Until you do, I shall do so for you. Have faith and you will go far, this I promise you. Can you do that for me? Can you do it for the strange obnoxious bard you met today?"

"Mental exercise? I think I need something stronger than that," Lotte giggled as Iorwerth hugged her. "But I will try to believe in myself... for a strange obnoxious bard." She laughed again and poked his chest gently. "Even though you are neither of those things."

She gave a little sigh. "What I really need is to impress someone who is rich and will pay a lot of money for my time... but only the most beautiful and talented girls find that. Otherwise, I will rely on hardwork and mental ... exercise... though I think a little magic would do me better." She said these last words conspiratorially, knowing they were dangerous. Something about Iorwerth though, made her sure that he would not report her for such language.

The "human" centaur's face was an unreadable mask as he gazed at the woman beside him. A look of deep understanding and wisdom could be seen within his brown depths where hints of gold shone out. "You should not be so foolish as to say such things," he spoke quietly. A hand came up to brush a lock of hair behind her ear.

Yet despite his stern, stoic words a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. Iorwerth bowed his head slightly in acknowledgement of what she had said, a silent agreement that could never be voiced aloud. 'Magic indeed, if only you knew Lotte.'

"It's a funny thing," he mused aloud, "in a place where magic is a despicable thing punishable by death, there are more walls with ears than anywhere else I have ever been." Then in an instant the somber expression he held was lost to be replaced by his familiar brilliant smile. "Such silly thoughts for a bard to be having, for what do I know?"

Lotte's smile was mischeivous as Iorwerth scolded her and she revelled in the chance to be 'foolish.' Seeing his smile reassured her that she had been right in his assessment, that he would not report her or be horrified by her speaking of magic.

"That's true." She nodded at his comment about the walls. "But we're lucky, here. One of the advantages of being at the bottom of society - no one really cares what you do, and they don't bother to monitor." She grinned impishly and gestured at the walls, roughly signalling the brothel as a whole. "These walls have heard so many secrets, they would shock even the best detective!"

She lowered her voice a little. "Once, a mage came here to me. He showed me some of his magic!" Her eyes gleamed with excitement, but she put a finger to her lips playfully. "Don't tell anyone!"

His lips pursued tightly together. "You should still be more careful. If you want to dance for more wealthy men then you would do best to stay away from matters of the law. A dead dancer doesn't get anywhere in life. I would hate to lose the new friend I am finding in you," he whispered at last.

"How can I stay before the Madam kicks me out? I don't want you in trouble because you are not working since you are with me. Besides the tiny dancer needs her beauty sleep. Tired feet get you nowhere." He winked and smiled at her fondly.

Lotte pouted as he scolded her, disappointed. "On the contrary, if I manage to do it, I will hear more secrets than ever before. The politicians and VIPs are the ones with the most secrets... and they like to whisper them into the ears of their escorts." She winked before carrying on, this time thoughtful.

"Oh, we are never busy on a weekday, I don't know why. I can tell that all is quiet tonight... so we have some time before I will be needed. You are welcome to stay for a little longer - if you'd like to, that is." She smiled uncertainly.

"Secrets can be dangerous things. Take care that you do not become so immersed in them that you are the one that takes the sudden drop in the place of others." Iorwerth knew exactly what he was speaking of. He had seen it before where someone knew of another's magic use and had died for that person, unwillingly because no one would listen to the truth.

He gave her another friendly squeeze. "Well if that is the case then I will stay up until the last second before I have overstayed my welcome. Just promise me you won't get yourself in trouble for my sake. I would never forgive myself. Is there something you would like to do now Lotte? I'm afraid I don't really keep company with others and am not really very good at this sort of thing." Iorwerth blushed heavily at the admission.

She smiled knowingly, nodding. "Don't worry. I know to be careful, and I will be." She didn't add that most of the secrets that were whispered into the ears of the high-class girls found their way back into the brothel, repeated over giggly chats and whispered discussions.

"I won't get in trouble." Lotte patted his hand gently and quirked an eyebrow as he carried on. "Not very good at what sort of thing, Iorwerth?" Her smile was kind but gently teasing, drawing out the double entendre in his words.

Iorwerth looked back up, an expression of confusion marring his handsome features. "I'm not good at-oh. Oh!" His eyes widened and the blush deepened even further. "I-I-I," he stuttered. "That's not what I meant-I mean I'm not good at that well at least I don't think I am. I've never-anyway what I mean to say is is that I am not very good at spending time in the presence of a goddess trapped within human form. I don't spend much time with humans."

His slip only lasted a second before he fixed it. "Human's that are really goddesses I mean." Iorwerth was mentally screaming at himself for such an obvious mistake. 'I should head back to Ylli. I can't stay here too much longer, I'm already at my wit's end!'

"I don't spend much time with humans" Lotte frowned curiously as she picked up on Iorwerth's strange turn of phrase and his embarassment. Slowly she began to piece together the man's reluctance to talk about himself, his nervousness and excessive concern, and her brow furrowed more. Looking up at Iorwerth, her expression cleared and her face took on a look of soft concern, of friendship mixed with curiousity. She leaned forwards and took one of Iorwerth's hands in hers, the other resting on his chest.

"Iorwerth... are you not - entirely human?" she asked softly, her little hand stroking his chest gently.

"I am as human as the next man," he replied frostily. Inhuman eyes shone with a somewhat alien intelligence. 'Moreso than most in fact. I am not the animal that they are. I carry more compassion and understanding than most of them. Their treatment of their so-called brethren is despicable. I would never do such things.'

Iorwerth took Lotte's hand away from his own and gently clasped it within his own. "What makes you ask such an interesting thing? Has some fantastical bardic tale about me reached your ears? Now that is something that I would enjoy hearing, a tale about me for once." He chuckled playfully to diffuse the tension building within himself.

Lotte drew back a little at Iorwerth's cold reply, worrying that she had crossed a line. But the look in his eyes chilled her, and she found herself biting her lip as the silence fell between them. What was it that she could read in his face? This uncertainty made her nervous...

"I'm sorry, Iorwerth." She looked bashful as he questioned her. "I should not have asked - I didn't mean any offence by it. It just seemed that there is something deeper to you than common men. I didn't mean to insult you - it would never have bothered me if it was true." She stumbled over her words a little, trying to smooth over her mistake.

'Fool! Look what you did now.' Iorwerth squeezed the hands still within his own gently. "Hey, don't worry you didn't offend me. Honestly though, I'm as human as the next man," he repeated cryptically. 'Doesn't matter whether you would mind or not. I can't afford to trust you or anyone with that secret. I should leave. I'm getting tired and it's making it difficult to think. Won't be long before I can't stand properly'.

"Forgive me fair lady but I believe I should take my leave of you for now. I am tired and starting to not feel so well. A good night's rest would do me well now." Standing, he once more reclaimed her hands in his own and bowed low over them to kiss them both. "It has been a pleasure fairest Lady Lotte.

Lotte nodded assent, following Iorwerth's lead as he stood up. It seemed as if he was leaving quickly, and in spite of his protestations, she couldn't help but feel that he was in fact offended... and his sudden profession of not feeling well only served to  bolster her fears. She aimed not to show the worry however, fixing her practiced smile onto her face as she gave him her hands.

"Well, then farewell Iorwerth." She curtseyed in return. "It had been my pleasure also."

At the last moment before he pulled away from her Iorwerth leaned back in and kissed her cheek. "I'll see you again Lotte. It has been wonderful spending the day with you. Until next time then." Smiling broadly he fled the room and the entire brothel, not stopping until fresh night air filled his lungs.

A sharp pained whinny came from his right and the "man" hurried over to his other half. Ylli staggered on his feet where he stood. "Forgive me friend, I stayed too long." He ran a soothing hand across the horse's glossy coat, feeling the cold film of sweat on it. "Far too long. Come Ylli, let's get you home."

Tired and truly feeling sick, the pair gradually made their way to the outskirts of town. The longer time spent in each other's presences helped but did not rectify the problem. The moment he was sure they would not be seen Iorwerth returned to his true centaur form and breathed a sigh of relief. While his legs collapsed beneath him, he allowed himself to lay on his side in sweet, tickling grass.

"That was too close. I need to be more careful in the future when I see her again." The thought of Lotte's smiling face made him smile in turn. Staring up at the starry sky he fell asleep dreaming of their next hopeful meeting.

That night Lotte went to sleep feeling confused and curious. She hadn't really understood her interaction with Iorwerth. He had come to the brothel, but seemed entirely uninterested in her services - and while she had invited him as a friend, not a client, it was so unusual that she had been thrown off by his disinterest. She got ready for bed in a haze of thought, barely speaking to the other girls as they chattered and questioned each other about their evenings. Will I see him again? And if I do, in what capacity? Is he just interested in me as a friend... or even as that? Perhaps I scared him off, or perhaps he just lost interest... She had a heavy heart, and a head full of questions.


The next two days were rainy, and she wasn't permitted to leave the house. She spent most of the mornings sitting by the lounge window, gazing out into the wet streets. Iorwerth was on her mind all this time, as she wondered whether he would come by to visit, or even pass by the brothel on his travels. But if he did, she didn't see him. Soon enough, she was called away by her other duties and forced to forget about her new acquaintance, at least for a time...

By the third day, the rain had stopped, and Lotte was sent out on errands. It was early morning, with a pale sun hanging in the air, and she was happy. Her chains were long and loose todays, permitting ease of movement as she went about her jobs. Her hair was pulled back in a blue ribbon that shone in the clean light, and she hummed to herself, half-dancing through the open-air market.

The night before had brought exciting events for her, and these were on her mind as she shopped. Holding up a long length of shimmering pink fabric, she measured it with her hands and looked around for someone to assist her.

Iorwerth had kept himself busy in the days following his first introduction with Lotte. He spent as much of the time as he could in his true form. While it made him skittish in the city, it was much better for his health. Too much time had been spent split in two and now he was paying the price.

Yet, there was much laughter to be heard in his own alcove of the park where children came to listen to the centaur bard tell tales of days long past. As the days became nights though, Iorwerth found himself returning again and again to the brothel. Fear and uncertainty kept him from entering. 'She wouldn't want to see me anyway,' he justified every night as he drew away from the place.

Market day came and with it a bardic centaur in need of business. Clopping along his merry way, he smiled as he greeted several merchants and excited children. Lowering down, he allowed a few youngsters to climb atop his back and carefully navigated the tight streets. A flash of pink out of the corner of his eye had him turning his head to a surprising sight.

'Lotte! Oh no. Oh no! What do I do? She can't know about this.' She shuffled nervously so that his whithers were facing her. 'I can't change here. I'll be caught and killed for sure. Heavens above don't let her see me!' His hooves seemed to peel as loud as bells in his ears as he struggled to get through the massive crowd and as far away from her as possible.

Cheerfully folding up her length of pink silk, Lotte was placing it into the basket on her arm when an unusual sound caught her attention. Of course horses were common in the market place, but this sounded like the clatter of panicked hooves, so fast and irregular were they. She paid for her fabric quickly and turned, her eyes scanning the crowd for the source of the noise. Those eyes grew wide and disbelieving as a section of the crowd parted and she saw before her a huge centaur pushing through the throngs of people.

In an instant her confusion had changed to joy and her face lit up as she recognised the creature. She started taking steps towards the commotion, calling out as loud as she could. "Nessus! Nessus!" She cried out happily, breaking into a half-run as she neared the centaur. Her attempts were thwarted however, when a group of shoppers closed the gap between her and her target. Disappointed, she was about to duck past the obstruction when a voice called her name.

"Lotte?" She turned, startled, to be faced by a majestic black horse, bedecked with shining brass and colourful banners. Atop the stallion was a man, wearing the rich clothes of Connlaoth's nobility who was smiling down at her with a mixture of pleasure and curiosity. Completely distracted from the centaur now, Lotte found herself blushing as she gave the noble a deep curtsey.

"Lord Cardon," head still inclined, she smiled sweetly as she greeted him. "What brings you to the marketplace?"

"I have been out, and this is the quickest way to return home." The noble surveyed the heaving market with some distaste, but smiled as he returned his gaze to Lotte. In an instant he had dismounted from his horse and bowed to her, reaching to kiss her hand.

"Although now, perhaps, I do not want to return so quickly after all." He sighed. "But, return I must. Will you walk with me, Lotte?"

She hesitated before she accepted, glancing around for the centaur, but he was no longer in her sight. Shrugging off the encounter, she accepted Lord Cardon's proffered arm and let him lead her through the marketplace, where the crowds parted for the nobleman and his horse.

'I thought I was a goner for sure!' Iorwerth breathed a sigh of relief and sent the children clambering around him on their way promising to tell them stories another time. 'There is something seriously wrong with this picture,' he mused as he tried to follow Lotte as quietly as possible.

'Who is that with her? What are his intentions? He better not take advantage of her or I'll knock his block off!' The irony of the thought never really came to the centaur as he followed closer and closer.

'Stupid man,' he huffed. "If it had been me I would have let her ride with me rather than force her to walk beside me." He rolled his eyes, not allowing himself to really pay attention to his surroundings. 'I wonder if she thinks this is her ticket out of the brothel though.'

With a crash Iorwerth walked right into a fruit vendor's cart, toppling it and managing to be pinned beneath it. 'Brilliant Iorwerth! No way she didn't see that one.' Praying that no one saw, he transformed as quickly as he could back into human and horse. It was a poor move on his part though as it meant that Ylli was now lying on top of his lower torso and legs, effectively crushing them.

Deep in conversation with the lord, Lotte had no idea that they were being followed. She was concentrating on putting forth her best manners, her prettiest laugh, and her most enchanting words. It was somewhat of an effort to keep up the appearance, she had to admit - especially only days since she had met a man with whom she had never had to act. Well, it looks like he's gone, now, she reminded herself, remembering glumly that he had never returned.

They had only just passed a stall, heaving with lavish-looking fruits, when a loud crash behind them drew Lotte's attention. If she hadn't spun round so quickly she might never have noticed the centaur pinned below the cart - the very centaur that she believed to be Nessus. But then the harried fruit vendor blocked her view as he fussed around his cart, and when she could see again the centaur was gone.

Instead she saw Iorwerth and Ylli, squashed together on the floor. She was blinking in confusion when the lord turned around, curious as to what had got her attention.

"Ah," he smirked. "The lower classes getting themselves into pickles, I see. Come, Lotte, it does not do any good to linger in the market, especially when such chaos is going on." He wrinkled his nose and turned back, continuing on his way. He had to tug at Lotte's arm before she removed her gaze from the entangled pair and turned reluctantly and allowed herself to be led out of the marketplace, and into one of the city's wide streets.

Iorwerth groaned as he finally got Ylli off him. Determined to follow, he was stopped short by the irate merchant. "You idiot! Do you know how much this will cost me? I have mouths to feed! Where's the guard? You should be arrested for such insolence. Guards!"

Gulping, he placed a gentle hand on the man's shoulder. "Sir, I assure you the fault is my own-"
"Damn right it is and you will surely pay for it! I will not stand for this!" The vendor took off quickly in search of the aforementioned authorities.

"No, no wait!" Iorwerth screamed after him. "I'll pay for it. I'll make it up to you, I swear. It was an honest mistake. Give me the chance to correct it. Please!"

The man looked him up and down and sneered. "What can a pathetic bard do for me, sing money into my pockets. You're worthless!"
"Sir, I assure you, my word is good. If I must forever be your indentured slave then I will do it if it means that I have repaid my debts to you."

A smile appeared on the merchant's face as he calculated his odds. "Is that so then? Well in that case, if you clean all this up, tend to my cart for the rest of the day and somehow manage to generate a large amount of revenue I will overlook your indiscretion just this once."

Iorwerth bowed low in thanks. Yet, as the time passed he found himself regretting both his cowardice, his stupidity and his clumsiness. He was not receiving much in the way of money and he had not only deceived his new friend but purposely evaded her. Looking at the meager funds he had earned thus far he made himself a promise. 'If I manage to succeed I will go and visit Lotte tonight. No matter what, I will visit her. I owe her that.'

Lotte walked with the nobleman for a little longer through the broad streets, until he stopped at an intersection. He released her arm fron his and turned to face her, taking one hand in his.
"And now, Lotte, this is where you and I part. My home is not far from here, in the upper district, and you know that you may not venture that far." He said this simply, unquestioning of the status quo that prevented him from being seen with a prostitute, although the words hurt Lotte. Unwilling to show her disappointment though, she nodded and curtseyed, inclining her head to her companion.

"Very well, my Lord. May the rest of your day go happily for you." She paused. "And will we see you tonight?"
"No, Lotte. Not tonight. I have duties and a reputation to uphold, and visiting your... establishment, is not exactly a good use of a lord's time." With that he took leave of her hand and remounted his horse, dropping a coin to the ground as he did so. "For your time."

With that he was gone, trotting up the street away from her. Lotte sighed unhappily as he left, fighting a little internal battle before bending to pick up the coin. It wasn't something that she could afford to pass up, however degrading its delivery.

She returned home with a heavy heart, but not before passing back through the market. This was somewhat of an exercise, as the place was thronged with people. She could barely remember it being so busy before - with all of the stalls heaving and every available path filled with people that seemed intent on getting in her way. Nevertheless, she made it through, and returned home, to start her daily duties.

Lotte's downcast passing back through the market was missed by Iorwerth as he assisted a costumer over a squash discrepancy. 'At this rate I am never getting out of here,' he sighed sadly. 'Not to mention the fact if I somehow manage to do so, there will be no eating this week since I have no money. Stupid, stupid stupid!'

He sighed again as he worked hard to earn the money needed to clear his debt. All around him the noises of the street beat at his ears, making him miss the music he was hoping to make and sing for his tales. Suddenly an idea began to form. Smiling at Ylli and giving him a fond pat he hopped atop the great horse and cleared his throat.

Iorwerth raised his voice in song, singing sweetly of happy things. Everything from the beauty of the day to the food he was selling was mentioned in passing and crowds began to form. In half the time it had taken him to sell what he had earlier he sold everything. He sang as he took money, as he bagged food, as he directed on what to buy, as he haggled over prices.

A disgruntled shout sounded later from the edges of the crowd and after much shoving the fruit vendor made an appearance. "What is the meaning of thi-" The man's eyesbugged out in shock in seeing an empty stall. "What did you do you lying thief? You stole all my-my livelihood."

He looked on the verge of tears as Iorwerth placed a soothing hand on the smaller man's shoulder and handed him a large sack. "Seems you need to close shop for the day. Everything has been sold." The merchant stared at the other in shock before nodding his head.

As Iorwerth collected Ylli and made to leave, he felt a smaller but heavy pouch pressed into his hand. "Many thanks," whispered the man as he bowed out and closed up his cart. It brought a smile to the bard's face not because he had the money which would feed him but because he had brought happiness to another. 'Now to bring a smile to a certain female' he mused with a small skip in his step as he headed for the brothel.

The rest of Lotte's day passed easily, if quietly, without much excitement. The main event of the day was when a young maid returned from errands, full of stories about a singing bard in the marketplace.
"He is atop a horse!" the girl bubbled excitedly, as the rest of the maids gathered around her. "He is selling fruit and singing about it as he does - he has the most busy crowd of all the vendors in the market!" The girls all laughed delightedly, wishing they could have seen this unusual sight. But Lotte stayed quiet, a little smile tugging at her lips. 'A bard on horseback'... it sounded familiar to her.

That night was one that she had free, released from her usual duties for the evening. After she had assisted the rest of the house in their preparations she retired to her room. Her face was clean of makeup, her hair tied up simply, and she wore only simple leggings and a tunic. She was expecting an uneventful evening, and she settled herself down onto her bed.

Before long she had pulled out the cloth she had bought that morning, carefully hemming it.

Iorwerth hesitated as he stood on the doorstep of the brothel. He had no regard for how he would look to an outsider only that he was not sure if she would want to see him. 'It has been days, she might not even want to see me. Besides what if she is entertaining company? That noble could be with her. I could get her into a lot of trouble. No harm in asking though I guess.'

As he went to knock the madam opened the door and stared at him for a moment before rolling her eyes and nodded her head to the stairs. "She's in her room. Don't keep her waiting," she instructed before closing the door after him and leaving him standing there.

Clenching his hands into nervous fists he built up his courage and ran upstairs. Filled with joy he raced up and up until he paused in front of her door, unsure once more. Quietly he knocked on the door with three soft taps. "Lotte?" he called. "It's Iorwerth, can I see you?"

Lotte had finished sewing her hems and was experimentally wrapping the fabric around her hips when she paused. She frowned and tilted her head to the side, trying to listen.

Yes, there it was. Over the muted sounds of conversation from the nearby rooms, she could hear footsteps, rushed footsteps on the stairs. Her face brightened as the steps came closer and closer before stopping outside her room.

"Iorwerth?" she cried out happily, dropping her scissors onto the bed beside her. "Come in, come in!"

The man smiled shyly at being welcomed so happily. "I'm sorry I did not come sooner. I was unwell, but I'm better now. How are you?" Iorwerth had to bite his tongue so as to not say more. There was much he wanted to say and ask that he felt would be inappropriate.

'I saw you at the market. Who were you with? What were you buying? Did you see me? Who is Nessus? Did you miss me? Is it alright that I came? What did you do while I was gone? Is pink your favorite color? You're beautiful. I love your smile. I'm an idiot.' He stood in the doorway nervously, itching to greet her with a kiss to the cheek as was customary but unsure how she would take it coming from him and what her occupation was.

"That's alright." Lotte smiled and unfolded her legs, standing up with a stretch. "I'm sorry that you have been unwell Iorwerth, but I'm glad you're better now. I'm fine, thank you. It's nice to have an evening free - even nicer when a friend comes to visit me." She crossed the room and gave him a little curtsey, then leaned up to kiss his cheek quickly.

Gesturing him into the room she swung the door closed, waving at the bed. "Sit down, please. Make yourself comfortable." She settled down again after moving her sewing out of the way.

It gladdened him that she had dared to kiss him but, it would not shake the jealousy and concern he was feeling. Iorwerth did as she bid and sat on the very edge of the bed, feeling a bit uncomfortable still about their whole relationship. "This is beautiful," he commented, pointing at the fabric.

"What are you going to make it into? A scarf perhaps?" His fingers brushed against hers as he reached for it and he froze at the touch. The nervous smile wobbled on his lips as he blushed and made no move to meet her eye. "Are you sure I am not disturbing you? If it is your day off I would hate to take up your precious time. I would be quite alright leaving, I fully understand the desire for peace and quiet, alone time. Say the word and I shall go. Or say the word and I shall stay. I leave my fate in your delicate and beautiful hands my fair Lotte."

"Thank you." Lotte beamed as he complimented the fabric, running her hand over it. It was a soft silk, made in a beautiful pink that she couldn't wait to wear. Their brief, accidental touch didn't phase her, though she noticed Iorwerth's blush, and hastened to put him at ease.

"Of course you aren't." She spoke softly, warmly. "It is my day off, but I can think of nothing better than to spend the evening with such a thoughtful friend. I would love you to stay." She touched his arm very gently before picking up the folded fabric and shaking it out.

"It is going to be a dress, for myself." Her eyes shone with pleasure, and she held the fabric up against herself in a vague approximation of the pattern. "My own dress, for a change! That I have made. Do you like it?"

"A dress! Well forgive me then, I greatly misunderstood," he chuckled. For a moment he pursed his lips together and stared at the fabric critically. With a sigh, he allowed his features to soften and looked up at Lotte with a friendly smile. "I'm afraid I'm not very good with this sort of thing but I think you would look lovely in it, a shining star burning so bright even the sun will shy away from your brilliance. The color brings out that of your cheeks and compliments your eyes I think."

Iorwerth shrugged in the end though. "I don't really know much though," he mumbled to himself. "It gladdens me though to know that you will be able to do this for yourself. I wish I could help. I would only butcher it though. If you want to continue working on it though, I will gladly keep you company. I'll even do what I do best and talk your ear off." The man winked and slid back on the bed to rest his back against his the wall.

Lotte blushed fiercely as Iorwerth complimented the fabric and her features, putting the cloth down carefully. "Well, thank you." She smiled shyly, flattered by his descriptions. She took up her needle again as he carried on speaking, continuing to hem the fabric absent-mindedly.

"That sounds like a lovely way to spend the evening." She glanced up at him, smiling warmly, before her eyes flicked downwards again. "I would love for you to talk to me whilst I work. So tell me, how was your day?"

Iorwerth choked on his own saliva and sputtered and coughed for several minutes before being able to settle. "My day?" he repeated. A nervous braying chuckle escaped him, painting his cheeks red in embarrassment. "Well, it certainly has been an interesting one."

His eyes followed the steady motions of needle through fabric as he told of her his day. He told her everything, or rather everything in a slightly modified version. "Markets days are wonderful business days for bards. All the children with their parents who just want to keep them quiet so they can sell their wares, make wonderful customers. Unfortunately, Ylli is such a clumsy beast. As much as I love him, I seriously considered-" Iorwerth trailed off and shook his head in frustration.

"Anyway, he knocked over a fruit vendor's cart and got me into a barrel of trouble. Here I am with this cart of damaged fruit and of course no one is buying. It was not looking good, I'll tell you that. In the end it worked out though. I did what I do best and used my profession to assist another man in his. Then, afterwards I moseyed my way over her to see the prettiest little dancer I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. And what about you dearest? What have you been up to today?"

Lotte smiled knowingly as she listened to Iorwerth's tale, her skilled hands working on her fabric as he talked. As he finished speaking she stayed quiet for a minute, marking out the pattern onto the silk with a pencil. Finished, she looked up to meet his eyes.

"Yes, I heard there was a fruit-selling bard in the market-place today." She grinned. "I thought he sounded familiar, when I heard the stories... I should have known for sure that it would be you. I'm not surprised that your singing helped you out. As for my day..."

She put down the fabric thoughtfully, and picked up her scissors. "I had an interesting day. I went to the marketplace to buy this, and just as I did, I saw a centaur! I was so excited, I thought it was my old friend Nessus..." she drifted off, and frowned. "I haven't seen him for so long, but when I tried to go over and speak to him, I got lost in the crowd. Then I got distracted, because Lord Cardon appeared, and asked me to accompany him home."

"Funny thing is, I think I saw the fruit cart fall over, but I was hurried away before I could see - otherwise I might have seen you!" She laughed.

"Though-thought he sounded familiar!" Iorwerth sputtered in jest. "Are you saying in the two days that you have spent in my glowing presence I have become that predictable? Oh dear, this, this we must remedy." He sighed and shook his head sadly.

He stopped though as he listened to her retell her day. The more she talked though the hotter the room began to feel to him as he broke out into a nervous sweat. "A centaur?" he repeated, his voice cracking slightly. Iorwerth laughed at the sound but became more distressed as he sounded like he was braying instead of chuckling. Clapping a hand over his mouth he turned bright red in embarrassment.

'Heavens above, I'm making a right ass of myself! How do I always manage to do this? Nessus? Never heard of him. At least that's a blessing in and of itself. She thought I was someone else. I'm going to need to be more careful in the future. That was too close last time. Plus the fruit cart. She could have seen me as the centaur then too. I am such a fool!'

"Lord Cardon? I'm afraid I don't know who that is. How did you meet him? I thought you said that you hadn't met any nobles to have you dance for. Did something change in the last few days?"

"Yes, a centaur." Lotte spoke smoothly, tactfully glossing over Iorwerth's embarassment. "I met Nessus when I was only young, and he lived in the city. We became good friends, but then he moved away." A hint of sadness touched her voice as she remembered the other man.

"He used to carry me on his back when he was in centaur form... so I suppose I wasn't entirely truthful when I said I'd never ridden a horse before," she laughed.

"As for Lord Cardon..." the smile vanished from her lips as her thoughts turned to her new acquaintance. "Yes, I met him two days ago, and he came again last night. The first night, we met entirely by accident, but last night he asked for me specifically." There was a note of hesitant pride in her voice, but it was dampened slightly. "I think he might see me again."

Iorwerth gulped slightly and then tried to cover it up by clearing his throat. "Centaur form? Are you saying he could switch his form between centaur and other things?" His hands fluttered nervously in his lap, rubbing up and down his thighs. 'Heavens! He's just like me. Oh, this bode well. No siree it most certainly does not bode well I tell you!'

He blushed further as she spoke of the gentlemen seeking her affections. It made him both nervous and joyful. He worried at what this man would do to her. Iorwerth knew he was just using her but, that this was also her occupation. On the other hand, she too wished to use the nobleman. In his mind he could see it as nothing other than a win-win situation. Yet, deep down in his heart he could not help feel sickened by it all.

"Well, seems your dream may come true after all. Better rest up those dancer's feet. Wouldn't want them to be all worn out before the main event. I just wish I could see you in your shining moment." He smiled brightly at her, meaning every word even though he still felt a bit off about some of it. 'We all have choices to make. Some are wrong, some are hard, but they are all of them ours to make. I have no right to take that from her.'

Thinking of her old friend, Lotte missed the signs of Iorwerth's embarassment. She smiled as she spoke, her mind far away. "Yes, he was normally in the form of centaur, but he could transform into a human, at will. I don't know much about the process, because he would never let me see the transformation. He-" she broke off and giggled here, blushing girlishly. "Whenever he became human he would always appear naked. So he would always hide away until he had dressed himself again."

The laughter died on her lips as Iorwerth brought the conversation back to the lord.

"Well, who knows when - or if - he will require my company." Her mouth twisted into a little pout as she thought. "As for a shining moment... I don't think he will see it like that, I think perhaps these men don't appreciate the skill of a dancer." She paused. "Not that I mean I am very skilled, of course, but for those who are."

"Ah yes, well that must have been embarrassing for him," he chuckled back, a sense of glee filling him at that pretty piece of knowledge. 'I'm a better centaur! I have better control over my form.' his mind cheered. Iorwerth could have done a dance in place if propriety and his audience had not won him over into stillness.

His features became serious once more as she talked of the nobleman. Without thought a broad and muscled arm reached out and tugged Lotte snug against his side. "Never doubt yourself. I have seen you dance and I judge you to be very skilled, little Lotte. Or would you doubt the word of this world traveler? If he does not see you then he is a fool and all the better that you do not waste your time on him. Your time will come. This I promise you.

"So," he raised a hand under her chin and brushed a finger at the corners of her lips, "chin up and smile. There will be no pouting on this cent-centurion's watch." He gave her a gentle squeeze and a featherlight kiss to the top of her head before letting her go and shifting away slightly. "I am very glad I have made such a beautiful and talented friend. You cannot believe how immature and silly the rest of my friends are," Iorwerth jested, rolling his eyes and huffing.

"Yes, I'm sure they are," she smiled, her spirits buoyed up by Iorwerth's kind words. "Do they also appear out of thin air, complete with horse, and suddenly come into your life? I might've had big plans that have been interrupted by you and Ylli," she teased, not meaning a word of it. "Watching me dance... making me miss you... thinking of you at the market. It's very inconvenient, you know." She winked.

Putting her sewing to one side, she shifted further onto the bed and tucked her feet up to be more comfortable. She caught at Iorwerth's hand, in an attempt to pull him around to face her. "Tell me about your friends, Iorwerth. What are they like? You must have met so many interesting people on your travels."

Despite knowing that she was teasing him, Iorwerth still managed to blush deeply. It took all he had not to say the words that flooded his mind as warmth flooded his heart. 'She said she missed me. She said she was thinking of me. She is only jesting. She thought you were her friend. She never even saw you, no use getting all worried over it, old boy,' he tried to persuade himself. But his heart was not fooled that it was not actual worry but perhaps something else that made it beat so fast and warm his cheeks so.

He drifted back from his thoughts, allowing his much larger hand to squeeze her own in turn. "My friends," he repeated in great surprise though, "you want to know about my friends? Well," the great man shuffled nervously on the bed, feeling so much smaller than he actually was.

It was true he certainly had met a great number of interesting people on his travels. But, so few of them would truly classify as friends. They were the people whose lives touched his own and walked on to follow their own paths while the single moments of their meetings with the bard were immortalized in song and tale. Few of them met Iorwerth again, even fewer were ever the same upon their second meeting as years often passed in between.

"My friends usually are uh," Iorwerth hung his head to stare down at their joined hands as he fought to admit the truth, "are uh usually children." He nodded his head and smiled wistfully. "They grow up and move on with their lives but there really is much to tell. Youth is youth, they are all innocent and sweet and little dears just all children are and, well that's about it."

((I forgot how ADORABLE Iorwerth is!))

"Of course I do," Lotte answered sweetly to his first question and waited patiently for the reply. She quietly watched his face, seeing the shadows of thoughts flicker across his expression in the quiet that followed. She wondered what he was thinking about - was he perhaps trying to remember the details of such a large number of friends? She could easily imagine that he had met hundreds of people throughout a travelling life. Or perhaps he had few that he could call friends, and was trying to decide who fit that title? She could certainly empathise, if that was the case. The life of a prostitute did not lend itself to close friendships, exactly.

"Children?" she asked, a note of surprise in her voice. It hadn't been an answer that she had expected, and yet it made a certain amount of sense. Iorwerth, with his sweetly innocent demeanour, probably did feel more comfortable around children than more cynical adults, she reasoned.
"That's nice," she nodded slowly. "I can see why you'd like that. Although I've got to admit, I don't know any children. I haven't since I was one myself... and then I didn't exactly have many playmates my own age," she admitted, a tinge of pink on her cheeks.

"Perhaps if you have time in your very busy schedule, you could join me during one of my story-tellings. I'm sure my little friends would adore meeting the sweet woman that has taken such good care of their larger, clumsy friend," he offered, his eyes dancing with mirth.

Iorwerth sighed then and shook his head. "Although you best be careful around tiny Annis, I do believe she will be quite put out to find another woman in my life. She has quite the crush on me you know. You've got some very serious competition," he informed her, trying not to laugh.