Spirits of the Earth

@SilmeriaElemred
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It had been a long time since Tatsu had shed his human guise to stretch and bask in the energies of the world around him. Really it had been too long. He felt drained and weary. Normally he would journey to Adela for one of his sabbaticals because of their worship of dragons and the forbidden nature of hunting them. However he found himself impatient and instead traveled into the remote mountains that bordered Serendipity and Connlaoth to initiate his transformation.

The plan had been to switch from his human to his dragon form then take off and fly high above the ground where he would be out of sight, let alone reach, of any who might wish him harm. It started off well, as his change from one form to another took only a handful of seconds, but before he could rise high enough there was already trouble. In the mountains it was difficult to get a proper reading on magical energies because the rangers were littered with lost artifacts, so he did not sense others until it was already too late.

Thankfully they were merely opportunistic rats, bandits and ruffians armed with pitiful crossbows and lances, not proper tools for hunting a creature as magnificent and large as a dragon such as Tatsu. Unfortunately his scales protected him from the worst of their attacks, but a few arrows and bolts pierced his hide, sending rivets of silvery blood down his left shoulder and forearm.

Tatsu refused to fight them, and easily out maneuvered them, fleeing through the air before they could bring him out of the sky. He didn't stop until he was in the Wester Highlands, far from Connlaoth's borders. The pain of his wound was bearable, but he was more than worn from the experience. Especially since his goal had been to recharge and refocus. Certainly people would have seen his passage, which he'd hoped to avoid, but he did the best he could.

Finally he landed heavily in a secluded valley near the Terrin mountains. He might have transformed then, but injured and tired he decided against that decision. Instead he settled upon the ground, his long serpentine shape in a semi-circle as he closed his eyes to rest for a short time before trying to do much of anything. The silvery blood still trickled down his scales, but he was unconcerned with the injury. He would heal quickly from such tiny wounds.

Indeed. He would have been able to heal properly. If only those bandits had not been the only ones in the mountains.

Tatsu had been followed. Two women and a man, all three roughly looking and more heavily armed and armored. They were however not human despite looking as such in appearance if they were not two times as large.

''Look at that piece of beauty'' the man said as he licked his lips.
''What do you want to do. Sell him or take him apart.''
''Lets capture it first. Use the elder poison we drew from the other dragon. Thisone is old and looks sturdy so we might as well give it the best we have. It will not do anything else then making him feel severe pain anyway''

Their steps were quiet as they closed in and surrounded Tatsu. After a signal they drove their spears, their tips as black and red honeythick liquid dripping off them, were put deep into his flesh.

''Wrong place, wrong time my future moneybank!'' the man said laughing. The two women laughed too. At first anyway. Before they started to scream in terror and released the spears from their inhumanly grasps.

A dragon appeared to them. And a large one at that. Not having seen it since it came from the direction of the sun, about to land on the ground. They felt the wind of its wings and the ground shaking on impact. ''Leave!'' it spoke so loud all three hunters grabbed to their heads as if the voice came from there to begin with.

''At least just let us take the blood... some fangs... we will not kill it..'' one of the women pleaded
''LEAVE! Or you will suffer the same fates as those you've hunted thus far''

''We... we will leave. Right away'' the man said running off first. The women following him calling him a coward for bailing first.

--
When the three were far away enough the dragon faded. Like an illusion since that was exactly what it was. Everything. Just games in their simple minds that were open like a book to her.

On the place the dragon stood however was a woman. Clothed in dark silks and hooded and turned towards Tatsu. She looked shocked to say the least. ''Look what they did to you...''

Facing him now, it was clear to see she was elven. But not a common one. Her skin was paler and the few locks of hair that were visable seemed as dark as the night itself. Carefully aproaching one of the places they had pushed the spears in. The elf had no knowledge of many weapons but spears were one of them. And these, were meant to take down creatures such as dragons.

All he had wanted was to rest. Tatsu was jerked from his sleep by the three points of piercing agony that sliced deeply through his armored scales and into the flesh below. The pain was blinding and he could only lift his head to unleash an anguished roar. He had not hidden his passage well enough, he should have turned to his human form - a dragon was too large and obvious a target.

Even through the pain there was a momentary flicker of relief, perhaps his time had finally come and The Hunt would end forever. He would not have to endure alone without his mate and kin. He rose to his feet, tail flickering in agitation as he thought to possibly make a final stand - to not go down without a fight.

It wasn't to be, for even as he managed to gain his feet, the three would-be dragon slayers began to act strangely. Tatsu could not see what they saw, for the illusion magic that was used against them had no affect on him. His lips curled back in a snarl as one pleaded to steal his blood and fangs, but then they turned and fled as if a great beast were chasing them.

The pain sapped his strength and Tatsu sank back down to his belly, silver blood was pouring from the large spears that had embedded into his side. His faintly glowing, pale blue eyes fixated on the young elf that was standing before him. She had likely saved his life just now, if only for a moment. The wounds in his side were still lancing him with unbearable agony and his great body trembled with the pain as she approached him.

Tatsu did not move in any threatening way, merely allowed his head to follow her movements as he watched to see what she would do. It was not in him to harm a female, even if she were not his kind, and even more - he was in trouble and needed help.

The elf Placed her hand near the wound before she lowered her hood. Revealing she was a Moonelf. It was not often they left the safety of their homes. Hidden with illusion magic and heavy spells to ward off those whom intend to cause trouble. ''I need to take these out... one by one ok? It may hurt more for a bit but I will help you. I promise.'' she looked at the sky. The light was not reaching her properly but enough to recharge a little as she would work. ''Solos... do not forsake me now..'' she mutted before wrapping her hands around the spear but put no pressure on it yet.

She focussed first. ''I will count to five and pull it out.'' she took a few deep breaths and made sure her grip was tight and Tatsu was relaxed.
''One... two..three... four'' five however never never came. Done on purpose. It was the same with dislocated joints. Saying to count to a certain number but putting them back in before the number is reached. Despite relaxed people would always tense up knowing the pain would be coming after the final number making it more difficult. If Tatsu's muscles would tense up the damage would be far greater and it may not would have been possible to pull the spear out in one go.

In one straight pull she took the first one out. It was not until then she saw the poison. Due being so thick it was not taken in easily by the blood but the effects would be there longer depending on the duration the spear would be in the body. ''What kind of butchers where they...'' she tossed the spear aside quickly placing both her hands on the wound to keep the blood in.

She knew the toll it would have on her kin to heal wounds like these. But especially on her. Being weak since birth. Which made her fortunate not only to be able to heal using her Moonelf magic alone.

Carefully, using necro magic and her healing magic to mend the wounds. The poison would have to wait till she was done. It took a few long minutes for the first wound to mend. But despite starting to feel the draining effects she cought her breath and went to the next one.

Her hands were soft and gentle, Tatsu closed his eyes, but his eyelids couldn't completely hide the luminescent glow. Deer-like ears twitched faintly as he listened to her voice as she spoke soothingly to him. He wondered if she knew that he understood her perfectly. No matter, for the moment he was simply in a great deal of pain and she was trying to help him, so he lay still for her so she could do what she needed.

The feeling of the first spear being removed was most unpleasant. A deep, almost feline, growl issued forth, but the sound was not aggressive, merely a rumbling statement of his immense displeasure.His eyes opened as he quieted back down, lifting his head and turning so he could watch as she laid her hands on the wound. It was disgruntling to see his pale blood leaking through her fingers. The deep punctures that the spears had made bled profusely.

Rather than focus on the pain, Tatsu first watched as the magical energies gathered and were channeled into healing him, then he tentatively reached out his own magic to try to connect to hers. If the kind elf woman was going to help him, then he did not mind lending her his considerable magical might in the process.

She had expected an aggresive reaction but was glad it was not the case. With the second spear she said she wpuld count to four. Pulling it out after the second and with the third spear, she did not count at all.

Pulling out the spears and healing the wounds even with Tatsu's help was a challenge. As she healed the last wound she could barely stand in her own two feet and blood came from her nose. ''Not yet..'' she said silently to herself.

Her hands, clothes and the grass were stained with the silvery blood and was both amazed and suprised the dragon had not lost consciousness.

'' You know... I have never been this close to a dragon before..'' she said as the third wound finally closed. The sun was gone behind clouds and the elf knew she had to be patient. It was not a life or death situation for her so resorting to the crystals would be a waste.

She removed the blood from her face before taking a deep breath.''she took a spear and observed the poison that was on it.''I have no means to cure you from this but... I could try if I am capable to let you share it with me so you suffer less..''

Each spear earned rumbling growl, or perhaps the sound became more of a groan. Tatsu had not felt pain like this in a long, long time. It wasn't commonplace for him to grow careless and allow himself to be hunted, surprised, or ambushed. By the time the last spear was removed and the final wound was closed, his great head was drooping, nearly back on the ground. Blood loss and the drain on his magic nearly did render him unconscious.

With heavy eyes he peered at her, if a dragon could be said to have expression his was concern as he watched her wipe blood from her face - and not his. He shouldn't have let her strain herself so. If the elf was harmed because of him he would be beyond ashamed. It was her suggestion that she share his suffering that had Tatsu climbing wearily to his feet, eyes glowing and tail flickering.

Summoning what strength he had left, his body began to emit a brilliant, pulsing light that slowly shrank as his form changed from the dragon to a broad-shouldered man, towering at six and a half feet, pale silver hair falling messily about his head to his ears and eyes becoming human, but the color was the same silver-blue. He was clad in armor that was the same color as his scales had been.

"I will not cause you harm, certainly not for my own relief." He swayed on his feet, a hand going to his side to cover where his wounds had been. Even closed they burned fiercely from whatever poison that the hunters had used.

The light was bright enough for the elf having to shield her eyes and she was suprised when she saw a man where the dragon was. A very tall man. Although most of her kin were small. She could not help to have a soft 'wow' escape from her lips.

''Me getting hurt with using magic is nothing new. I have been weak since birth. Physically anyway.'' she said as she looked at him still amazed. ''Sorry I did not manage to get to you sooner. If you do not permit me to take in a part of the pain I could perhaps see if there are herbs that can relief it. Just do not strain yourself.''

There had no new blood come out her nose but she was certainly covered in his silvery one. ''Lets get you somewhere safe. I have been staying at a cave not far from here. It's well hidden and should provide enough cover for you to rest.'' seeing he was wobbly on his feet made her place her armos against the front of his shoulders. ''If you want to wait a little it is alright. But being here in the open is a bad idea. You were injured already when you came here and it would be bad if others followed the trail..''

There was a scowl on his face as Tatsu regarded her warily. He wasn't sure how badly she might have weakened herself. How could he let this happen? He was a guardian, that this girl was an elf and not his kin did not matter. A female may have come to harm because of him.

Her hands came to steady him. How strange it felt to be the one needing help. Guardians were the ones that were supposed to protect and care for others, not be protected and cared for. She spoke sense, though. They should not wait out in the open, taking shelter would be for the best. His wounds needed time to ease and the poison must be given time to leave his system. The girl also should rest from the effort of healing him.

"You will not hurt yourself on my behalf." Tatsu said firmly despite the way his shoulders slumped and truthfully he looked almost ready to topple over if so much as assaulted by a gentle breeze. Somehow even weakened as he was his voice held an air of authority as if he expected to be listened to. "I will accept your offer for shelter. We should go now."

Ealis nodded. Despite she wanted to help, if he did not want her to share the pain with her to make it more bearable for himself she could not force it.  ''I can shield us with illusions. That way others will not be able to see us.''

Despite being way shorter then he was, she offered him support on the way to the cave which was shielded with vines and bushes. A small pool was outside and remarkably the light of the sun reached the small clearing in front of the cave.

Inside it was big enough for Tatsu to lay there in his true form if he wanted. Although then there would not be much room for anything or anyone else. She helped him sit down before she sat down herself in the full sunlight. Immediatly feeling the effects of it charging up her energies which was something sun and moonlight did for her kin. ''Much better..'' she purred. Somehow she seemed less pale too.

She either did not need a lot of time to recharge or did not give herself the time she needed since she got on her feet rather soon. ''I will get some water from a pool nearby and see if there are herbs I could use to relieve your pain. Is there anything else I could do for you?''

Tatsu merely have a sharp nod at her offer to shield them with illusions. He would not see them unless he really tried, and he was too tired to try. He would have have preferred to walk on his own, it made him uncomfortable to burden the small woman with his weight, but he couldn't help but lean heavily on her as she guided him to the cave.

He sank to the ground gratefully, his breathing sounding somewhat labored as he closed his pale blue eyes, a look of pain and distaste contorting his features. He did not have the energy to transform back to his true form, and felt as if he'd have been more vulnerable as a dragon. Better for people to see just another human - if a slightly odd one.

As she moved away from him Tatsu relaxed in his slumped position, trying to bring his mind into focus and reaching for the void. Slowly he found a peace and calm enter his mind as he tried to enter a meditative state. Soon his eyes opened again, looking at her passively as she asked what she could do for him.

"I just need rest." He said quietly, letting his eyes fluttered closed again. "I am Tatsu. Sometimes Tatsu Drake. Thank you for your aid."

''Pleasure to meet you Tatsu. Although the circumstances of our meeting were less pleasant. I go by the name Eälis Moonchild.'' She had a few nicknames. One outsiders once gave her was 'the Forsaken one' as she was born exactly during the lunar eclipse causing her to miss the vital first light causing her to be so weak now to begin with. ''Although some called me the Forsaken one.'' despite the name was negative she smiled regardless. ''I will be back soon.''

She checked her bag to see what was in there and picked up a basket she had woven from thin willow branches that grew in the area. On her way to and back from the pond she picked berries, edible flowers, mushrooms and gathered nuts. But also sought for herbs she could use. She was not sure they worked on a dragon but it had worked on human, elves, fae and animals thus far. At the pond she filled a few bottles with water. Hopefully it would be enough.

The whole trip had taken her an hour and a half but she got what she needed. Also she had washed her clothes to make them free of blood.

''Good news, I got what I need herb wise. I just hope it works.'' She put down her bag which was heavy with the bottles of water. She took out two and offered one to Tatsu

There was no response as Eälis left. Tatsu remained still, the only movement from him was the gentle rising and falling of his chest. The technique of entering a meditative state, or even a trance, was one that he employed often. His mind and spirit were open to the energies around him, drawing in strength from his surroundings. Normally this would make him hyper-aware of his physical state, but instead he shut out the connection to his body as much as he could. It helped to dampen the pain he was in.

When the elf returned Tatsu roused himself with some effort, still visibly sluggish and weak. His eyes were dull instead of vibrant as he took the offered water, but did not move to drink it. "I am sure your herbs will help. You do not need to worry yourself on my account. Have you not done enough, little elf so far from home?"

He knew only a little of moon elves, but he knew that Eälis was a long way from any of her people's settlements. She seemed young to be out on her own. The world was a dangerous place.

''I left... because I had too.'' Eälis said as she sat down across of him. ''Physically I am weak but my magic is not. It is more then I can handle so I started a journey hoping I can learn to control it better. I did learn a few things but I am far from the point I wish to reach.''

She took a sip from the water. ''I just did not want to trouble my people with my weakness.'' she paused. ''If it is not rude of me to ask, what brings you here''

Tatsu sighed and closed his eyes as he listened to her. It was common for those strong in magic, at least those not of his kind, to have trouble controlling that magic. He had always been strong, both physically and magically, which is why he was chosen to be a guardian. Guardians had to have excellent control in all areas of their life.

It wasn't his place to question or judge her decision to leave her people while she sought control, but he did not think it wise for her to be alone, either. Not only for safety's sake, but because he knew the toll being alone could take on one's emotional health.

Her question caused him to shift uncomfortably, though his eyes remained lightly closed as he focused on keeping himself relaxed. Tension would only intensify pain. Normally Tatsu guarded his secrets closely regarding his true identity, but Eälis already knew he was a dragon. To try to hide his true nature from her was pointless.

"Why not here?" He asked softly. "I have few other places to be. I will admit I had not anticipated such a hostile encounter. Normally I remain as you see me, relatively human, or perhaps elven. It is easier and draws less attention. Sometimes I need to return to my true self, as you saw me before. Usually I would have done so in Adela, where dragons are worshiped and the hunting of them is forbidden. My impatience cost me dearly."

It was unusual for him to be impatient about anything. This only proved that patience was important and that he should temper and better control himself in the future.

''Hopefully you are safe for the time being. I do not like hunters. Killing or selling captured beings for sport or fun. My kin even barely kills though. I sometimes wished more would realise how sacred a life is. Wether it is human or dragon. But those from before... there was just so much greed in their heads'' Eälis finished her bottle of water and took a mortar from her back in which she put the herbs. For some she only used the leaves. Others the roots, flowers, and a select few were put in completely before she started the crush them. ''How... is it like? Being a... dragon. Soaring those skies''

"Humans especially seem insatiable in their greed at times. I have met some that were not, but the greedy far out number the selfless. It is discouraging to think of how few understand the sacredness of life." Tatsu did not like to do harm to others unless absolutely forced to do so in defense of himself or another.

Her question coaxed his eyes open to peer at her tiredly. "How is it like being an elf? It is not an easy thing to simply describe what it is like to be a dragon. I simply am." Ah, but what of flying? That was easier to try to share.

"I can not describe flying to you. What I feel to fly and what you might feel could be very different. For myself flying is to feel absolutely free." Grimacing softly as he shifted his position slightly, Tatsu sighed as he settled himself again. "When I have the strength, would you like to fly? There is little I have to offer you to repay your kindness, but I could manage that."

Eälis looked at him with wide amazed eyes that sparkled like the stars themselves. ''Do.. do you mean that? It would be amazing! I would love it!'' she said exitedly.

She blushed lightly though realising she sounded like but a mere child. ''Sorry... I can let myself go a little if I get exited'' she giggled. Returning to her natural calm self. ''When you are strong enough... I would like that.'' she poured a little bit of water in the greyish green pulp, mixed it to make it thinner and put it in a cup.

She was not done yet though, from a silk pouch she took a few magic crystals that sparkled like the stars, moon and sun themselves. She put them between her hands and allowed the light to drip into the mixture. The now dull crystals were placed in the sunlight to recharge. ''I warn you... this stuff is disgusting..'' she said as she offered it.

Allowing someone to ride him was not something that Tatsu would do lightly, but the young moon elf had saved his life, and her reaction to the offer was proof enough to him that it would be a worthy exception.

"It is not something I would normally do, but in this instance I will make an exception for you, Miss Eälis, and there is nothing wrong with showing a little excitement. Not everyone is given the chance to fly with a dragon." He managed a faint smile, even through his pain. A moment later his expression returned to one of discomfort.

He forced his eyes open again as she finished preparing her herbal medicine, taking the offering, he drank it quickly, grimacing as he did so. Tatsu had no idea what it was, but she had not lied, it tasted terrible. Coughing softly he handed it back to her. "Thank you."

''The pain should start to fade in a few minutes. I am happy to get the honor of being shown the sky by you. It will not be a wasted gift I promise. Also as long as there is moonlight, starlight and sunlight, and charged crystals I should be able to help you for as long as you need it. I will not lie... I felt pain when I mended the wounds. Very deep... pain.'' she did not tell him it was not just physical pain but she did not want to give Tatsu the impression she cought a sliver of his mind. Not intentionly but it did not mean it did not happen.

"I would not have offered if I thought it would be wasted." Tatsu said quietly. By now it should have been obvious that he was soft-spoken, not one to raise his voice more than necessary to be heard and understood. Her offer to continue to help him because of some "deep" pain she felt caused him to arch a brow at her.

"I could not ask you to continue to burden yourself with whatever pain you think you perceived. When I have my strength back that will be more than enough, Miss Eälis." He sighed heavily and closed his eyes again, obviously quite weary.

''Please... just Eälis is fine.'' she said as she took a blanket from her bag and put it over Tatsu. She sat down not so far from him in the sun. She was tired without a doubt but she would have to stay awake for now so Tatsu could sleep. Illusion magic, spells that affected surroundings for everyone or her puting them in individuals heads did not always work.

Tatsu didn't so much as stir as the blanket was laid over him. His mind had already drifted into slumber, seemingly unconcerned by sleeping slumped as he was there in the cave. It would have been his wish for Eälis to rest as well, or to have at least let her sleep first, but he was simply too weak to stay awake. He had not been at his best before the attacks, after losing so much blood he was next to useless.

Over two hours the only movement that came from him was the rise and fall of his chest while he breathed. Finally he moved beneath the blanket, sitting up slowly as he looked around for a few moments. Eventually his eyes came to rest on the form of his rescuer. "Did you sleep at all, Miss Eälis?"

''Not really...'' Ealis replied softly. She hat simply sat there in the grass but with her eyes closed.''There were bandits... I made sure they went a whole other direction. Especially after hearing that they had attacked you when they saw you. They will not come back.'' She opened her eyes and looked at Tatsu with a weak smile.''Elved do not need to sleep much anyway. Did you sleep well? ''

Tatsu sighed hearing about the bandits that had started this entire mess. If they had simply left him alone none of the rest would have happened. He wouldn't have needed to land and rest where the other hunters had ambushed him. At least they were gone now.

"Thank you for getting them out of the way." He pulled the blanket off himself as he stood slowly, seeming much steadier than before as he did so. Walking the few steps it took to reach her, Tatsu knelt behind her and laid the blankets gently about her shoulders. "You need to rest. Even if you say elves do not need very much sleep, you are drained, and it is my fault."

''I am alright now really. There is no need to feel guilty.'' Eälis said calmly. ''Sun, moon and starlight causes my kin to regain their power very soon. We are... depending on that light a lot as well. We can last without it for a week.'' She did keep the blanket around her though.

''But... I do not want to worry you either.'' she allowed herself to fall backwards in the moss and fallen leaves covered grass but did not know Tatsu was still there causing her to end up bumping in his chest. Not having expected that, thinking he had already moved away made her sit upright right away. ''Sorry..'' she chuckled. ''I did not mean to land against you''

"Feeling guilty is not always a bad thing." Tatsu chuckled. No, it wasn't always a bad thing. Guilt was your subconscious's way to let you know that you had done wrong. It, along with regret, were deeply embedded in his psyche. As a guardian he should have been one of the first of his kin to die - not the last. He'd failed his mate, his hatchlings, his elders...

Thankfully Eälis relented, agreeing to get some rest. He had not expected her to fall back so suddenly, but Tatsu didn't move until she sat up again. "It did not hurt." He said simply as he stood and stepped around her, moving to look out from their sheltered little sanctuary. His strength was returning, but he needed time in his true form. Once Eälis was rested he could take her with him for a brief flight before attempting again to get the refreshment he needed.

Though Eälis had appeared to be feeling fine, after she had fallen asleep she occasionaly shivered. Not from the cold. It seemed more like an energy dificiency. After all. Even in her sleep she still kept the illusions and wards up to prevent others from finding them. She seemed to calm down after a short while though after the sun casted its light on her again when a few clouds had passed. She seemed peaceful now and slept deep.

For a while Tatsu merely stood where he was, silent and still as he expanded his consciousness, testing the magic and energies around them. In this way he spent some time studying the illusions that Eälis generated and maintained. They were well-made, and he found little to fault in them. He felt the way she shivered, his mind brushing against hers on occasion as he explored their surroundings.

Once he actually checked on the sleeping elf, kneeling down to adjust the blanket so that she was covered better. He did not think she was cold, but he wished to make sure she was comfortable nonetheless. Eventually he settled again, returning to the place he'd rested before, finding his water and drinking it while he waited patiently for his companion to awaken.

''How long did I sleep...'' Eälis muttered softly said as she woke a few hours later. ''How are you feeling Tatsu?'' she asked as she sat up slowly. Wiping some dried grass from her face.

The final sunlight had just vanished behind the trees. At the least she seemed a little healthier. She did however not feel as such. As Tatsu brushed her mind with his she picked up strands of memories. Which was something not uncommon. Connections after all were most of the time two ways. Something she interpeted as normal dreams. Not exactly recalling what it was about, only how it felt.

"Hours, and I feel much better." Came the soft reply as pale blue eyes regarded her solemnly. Tatsu felt much stronger than he had before napping. Waiting while Eälis slept had been somewhat restful as well and the pain from the poison and his injuries were gone. If not his promise to take her flying, and some concern for her safety while she slept, Tatsu might have already left.

"Are you feeling better? You are not looking quite as pale as before." It was a relief to him, thinking that perhaps her expending energy to heal him had not left her worse for it with a bit of rest.

''I am alright. Really. I dreamt weird though. I do not remember exactly what but it felt... warm and loving... and suddenly turned into pain. A really deep pain with guilt. I never felt like that before..''  She folded up the blanket.''I... was wondering about something... and I feel quite ashamed as well for asking it... but my magic, combined with my weak body... do you think I could perhaps learn from you how to... control it better? I can heal physical wounds and mental ones.. but I am of no use if I black out... I have been traveling for years but the progress goes slower then the strength my power increases with...''

Tatsu turned his eyes away when she described her dreams, but his expression did not change to give away his thoughts or feelings about such a thing. He had not meant to connect in a way as to impose any subconscious thoughts upon her. From now on he would have to be more careful when touching another's mind. His only goal had been to reassure himself that she was fine, but she must have perceived something from him in return.

Eälis seemed rather perceive, or perhaps receptive, all around. She had connected to him somehow while healing him as well. It discomforted him to know that she could sense his buried pain. That was something he tried to hide almost as carefully as his true nature.

He turned his head to look at her more fully when she asked if he would be willing to allow her to learn from him. Tatsu had almost thought to ask if she needed, or wanted, his help when she'd admitted her lack of control earlier. It was in his nature to want to help, especially females. Although another thought struck him.

"You have been traveling for years? You seem barely old enough to be out on your own. How have you even managed to survive?" This was not a kind world, and she herself claimed to be physically weak.

''I avoided Connlaoth as much as I could... use illusions even while I sleep. I forage, work as a healer sometimes or with animals. In a rare occasion I find a job. But that is about it. It is not easy but still managable. I jyst do not want my magic to at some point get so strong I really can no longer hold it. If you cant for whatever reason then ou couse I understand.''

Tatsu still couldn't fathom the notion that this girl, barely even considered an adult by human standards, had been traveling alone for years. That still begged the question of if he should help. She had saved his life, perhaps he owed her more than just a short flight. What she was asking was a great responsibility to put upon his shoulders, however.

"We would have to come to an understanding of the parameters of such an arrangement. I travel a great deal, much of the time for business with mortals. Are you prepared to follow where I lead? I cannot have an apprentice that is not present for instruction. You will be expected to follow directions. Can you submit to my authority?"

He closed his eyes lightly, still considering what to say. "In return I would take responsibility for your well-being. Food, shelter, protection - I will ensure you have it provided for you so that you will be free to focus on my teachings, and I will never abuse the authority given me by being your mentor. You would be free to discontinue this arrangement at any time."

Pale eyes opened again to look at her very seriously. "Is this agreeable to you? Do you have further stipulations or amendments to the founding of this apprenticeship?"

''I accept your terms'' Eälis said and kneeled graciously and deep. She wanted to mention that would the time arise, she would protect him too but somehow she knew it was something he would not agree upon. But what was not mentioned, could not nessesarily be denied right? In a matter of perspective.

''I shall follow your directions. Submit to your authority. Follow wherever you lead and give it everything I have. Last thing I would want is you having wasted your time on me. I had taken that into consideration when I asked. But... somehow...I know that I can learn a lot from you. The way I am now... I am a danger to many around me.'' It was why she was alone to begin with.

That made Tatsu shift uncomfortably. He kept his mouth firmly closed until she finished speaking, no matter how much seeing her practically prostrate herself before him made his skin itch. A held breath was released she finished and rose so that he could go stand before her. "Please, Miss Eälis, I am your teacher, not your master. You need not kneel so."

He reached a hand down, offering her help in rising to her own feet. "You also need not worry about hurting anyone you do not mean to do harm to. I will be with you. If your magic begins to slip from your control I will stop it myself."

Ealis nodded and accepted his help to get herself back on het feet.''I hope with your teachings I can learn to do it myself someday'' she said. She smiled happily and there were some tears of joy in her eyes. Hearing branches crack not to far away from them though brought her back to reality.''what will we do?''

Those who were responsible for the breaking of the dead twigs would be guided elsewhere. The illusion making it appear as if the cave was where they were unly collapsed and tovdangerous to even aproach. She could hear the vouces even clearly with her elven senses that it would be best to camp elsewhere. and judging by the sound of their voices it were the bandits again.

''Want to stay here till dawn or leave this place now. I would be amazed if you recovered enough already... due all the bloid you have lost..''

"I have faith that you will, Miss Eälis." Tatsu offered her a slight smile as he looked down at her with a gentle expression. He made note of the tears that made her eyes shimmer, and felt that he had made the right decision in agreeing to this. She would appreciate his offerings of wisdom and he would appreciate the company. It did get unbearably lonely.

His expression hardened instantly as the sounds of intruders reached his ears. Even more than before the instinct to protect the young elf surged in him. It was his responsibility now to keep her safe. Tatsu could recognize the voices of the bandits that had originally hunted him. Eälis had said she'd seen them off for good.

"If we left it would have to be on foot. I cannot risk flying with them so close. I might not get out of their range before they attacked." Of course Eälis could hide their take off with her illusions, but he would rather not risk her safety at all if he could help it. "I could send them fleeing for their lives. There is little more terrifying than a dragon's ire.

His pale eyes glowed softly with anger. Those fools had hurt him, caused him to be vulnerable to those more proficient hunters, and now they endangered Eälis with their presence.

The elf did not understand either. Perhaps they knew the area better then she did. At the least they passed them now, making the cave appear elsewhere and in no state to be close by with. It happened on occasion people could see through them but they were tricked in thisone.

''Dragon fire... would it not set the forest ablaze as well?'' she asked. ''Normally people would say they would deserve it to die but... would it not be best to go? I will gather my belonings... we could walk to the opposite direction for a bit. It is dusk so they will set up camp somewhere anyway. Most likely at the edge of the woods where we had come from.''

"Who said anything about fire?" Tatsu asked quietly, turning his head and closing his eyes to listen to the passage of the bandits. Ellanari Sky Dragons didn't breath fire, but he very much doubted anyone knew that, or knew what an Ellanari Sky Dragon even was. He could command powerful magic, however, and in either form he was a physical might to be feared. "I said nothing of killing either."

If pushed, Tatsu had no problem taking life if it meant preserving life he deemed more important, such as his own or that of his new companion, but killing was a last resort. Bandits could be quite cowardly and he did not think that death would be necessary to send a message that they had tangled with the wrong prey.

Eälis did offer a plan that was not likely to involve confrontation, but part of him wanted to exact at least some revenge for the pain he had suffered. The nerve of them to attack a dragon. Did they take him for some mindless beast? A stealthy retreat was the safest option for Eälis, however, and ultimately her safety was more important than any selfish desire to teach his tormentors a lesson.

"Very well, gather your things. We will leave at once and travel tonight. We can rest near dawn if a suitable place of shelter can be found."

Eälis nodded and headed into the cave where her belongings were. ''If no fire... then what are you capable off? I am not really knowledgeable about dragons but I healed people once whom had been hit by acid dragon fire..'' thinking of how bad those wounds her still could make her shiver. And for long she had been hunted by the nightmares for not being able to save all of them.

She exited the cave with a bow over her shoulder and a quiver. As final she picked up the crystals she had used for the painreliever as well. They were weakly shimmering in the darkness, not fully charged but if they would stop at some point she could lay them out again. There was something else as well. On her wrists were several neatly crafted silver bracelets with the same kind of jewels. ''When we are out of the clearing I will lift the illusion and make sure to cloak us from others when I need to. I could cloak us now but I think you'd be happier if I save any energy I can.'' she emptied the baskets contends considering nuts, berries and some more herbs neatly in her bag for later. The basket, she left it in the cave. It was usefull and easy to make but dragging it along every time was not nessesary.

"It would take far too long to try to explain all that I am capable of doing, Miss Eälis. Even traveling with me I doubt you will see more than a fraction of what I am capable of doing. You should hope you never have to see." Tatsu's expression was hard, and there was a quality to his voice that had not been there before, something dangerous. His eyes still glowed faintly, his rage still smoldering despite his agreement for retreat. None of it was directed at her, however.

Those same eyes watched her as she came from the cave with her things, making note of what she possessed silently as he listened to her plan. He could find no fault in it, for now. "Very well, follow me, keep your voice low and make as little noise as possible until I say otherwise. Do not tire yourself with unnecessary illusions." He was still worried about alerting the bandits, although her illusions were satisfactory, Tatsu did not wish to take unnecessary chances. The less they had to rely upon her illusions the better, in fact. He did not want to risk exhausting her.

Without another word he slipped into the gathering night and stepped surprisingly lightly for a man his size as he carefully moved away from their little cave, and away from the bandits.

''I understand.'' she spoke softly. Eälis regretted having asked. She wondered how much of her current power would have to be displayed to Tatsu during him teaching her. Breaking minds in narrow situations was something she had no control over.Thus far she had most of the time fixed them too if they had not taken their own lives in the time she needed.

She followed Tatsu in silence. Not making any more noise then the breeze did. She had rarely walked without illusions after a few confrontations she had with travelers. Either because they had some nasty plans for her or were more then interested for her stargems and the silver she carried. Not cloaking herself for a first time since long, made her feel a little exposed despite always knowing illusions was not something she had to rely on so much

Tatsu only had one focus at the moment, and that was getting Eälis to safety. There was no point thinking of lessons when the student's life was in danger. Once he felt she was safe he could worry about exploring and pushing the magical potential of his new pupil.

How quietly she moved pleased him.  Every sense was alert as he lead them away from danger. Once or twice he stopped to listen and sniff the air, but after a few moments had proceeded. Sensing some unease from her as they moved, he paused long enough to offer her his hand, if she felt so inclined. His voice was quiet and soothing, "I will protect you, Miss Eälis. You have nothing to fear."

''I know.'' she assured him before taking a deep breath and exhaled slowly. ''What I usually fear most, is me. When we find a safe place I could show you why.'' She usually was not keen on letting others in her head and show them what kind of monster she could be. But it would be better to share then having it show at some point.''Not to mention I feel... revealed knowing I have no illusions set up to conceal my form. I became more used to it then I should.'' She looked at his hand briefly before accepting it.

"You will not need to fear even yourself, Miss Eälis. If you get out of control I will stop you, but I know you will be a fast learner, so soon enough you will not have to worry about losing control." Tatsu spoke in a reassuring voice, his eyes and expression softening slightly as her fingers closed around his hand. He hadn't been sure she was going to take it for a moment there. "Yes, you did. Magic should not always be your first choice, certainly not your only choice. What would you do if something happened, a situation arose, that you were unable to use any magic at all?"

With her hand now secure in his, Tatsu walked with her closer to his side instead of leading so fully. His main reason for holding her hand was simply to try to provide reassurance and pose as a calming influence if possible.

''I tend to try have things go peacefully with conversation. If that does not work, I have my bow. Or swords. I can use a spear too but I do not have one on me. I will fight in a defending manner... if I can. If it does not work and have no other choice then causing physical harm I will. I prefer not to kill but there have been a few situations in which I had no choice.'' It saddened her a little but sometimes there was just nothing else that could be done.

Her steps were still certain and she felt determined and ready

"I would like to see what you can do with that bow later. It would not hurt for me to assess your swordsmanship as well." Tatsu mused quietly, considering how to proceed with his new student. It had been years since he had actively apprenticed anyone. Gauging her abilities, both magical and not, did seem a good place to start. "We have plenty of time, and I will not push you to learn faster than I think you can handle."

Better to learn properly than be rushed through important learning opportunities. His pale eyes gazed around as they walked, judging the distance they had traveled and trying to decide how fit he was for flying. He would need to feel comfortable that he could get them high enough to be out of danger before anyone could move against them. "How do you feel, Miss Eälis?"

''I am alright.'' Ealis assured him. ''I was not that hurt physically. You should see me on worse days. The sunlight and sleep did me well. Have you recovered fully?'' He had lost a lot of blood after all. If she used to much force with her own magic nosebleeds were the least of her worries. She just wanted to be sure he did not push himself to much

"I hope to never see you on a worse day." Tatsu took his responsibilities very seriously. By agreeing to teach Eälis he had taken responsibility for her well-being and protection. She had not asked or demanded such a thing, but as a guardian he was driven to do so. Even if she wasn't an Ellanari hatchling, she was a young female and instincts had him wishing to care for her.

"Not at all, but I am well enough to get us off the ground." Between blood loss and the toll the pain and wounds had taken on him, it wasn't likely that Tatsu would feel fully recovered until he could gather the energy he needed to truly replenish himself. "When I transform climb onto my back. Seat yourself just in front of my shoulders and hold tightly to my mane. Do not worry about pulling the fur, and I will not let you fall."

With that he pulled his hand from hers and stepped aside, already beginning to glow. The transformation took seconds, his long, serpentine body stretching out as he shook himself lightly. After a moment he laid down onto his stomach and turned his head so that he could watch Eälis with softly glowing eyes.

Amazement and awe filled the moonelf's eyes as she saw him transform. How many of her kin could have witnessed this she wondered. ''You are amazingly beautiful you know that? In every way I  am sure.'' She placed her hand on his head briefly before she took place justin front of his shoulders like he told her to. Exitement running thrpugh her body likeva raging fire. It was not until now Tatsu could feel how light she was. Even for an elf. The way she seated herself was with thought. Realising every moment how precious this moment was going to become. In the sky the moon showed itself lonely amongst the many stars. The grieving one not far from her Goddess as usual.

A soft snort was given in response to the compliment on his beauty. Tatsu knew humans were quite easy to impress, and he supposed some elves as well. His mate had been amazingly beautiful. If only they could see her they would know how dull he was in comparison. Of course beauty was in the eye of the beholder, and his opinion was biased.

He watched her settle onto him, making sure she was seated properly before he rose carefully to his feet. She was lighter than he had expected. It was rare that he allowed someone to sit upon his back like this, but he was sure that only a child would have felt lighter. For the moment he turned his attention away from the elf on his back, ears flickering as he turned his gaze skyward.

Tatsu's tail began to move first, in slow, fluid waves from side to side. His front feet left the ground first, followed closely by his rear feet, all four limbs curled up to be carried closely to his stomach. He had no wings, his body simply began to rise straight into the air. Once they were above the trees the rest of his body began to move similarly to his tail, propelling them forward and still rising.

Cloud Serpents, some had called his kind, and not without good reason. He swam through the air almost like you would see a snake glide across water.

Eälis was not afraid. A broad smile formed on her lips as she looked at the world around her. It was not the same as watching the view from a mountain or cliff. No. This, was special. And if Tatsu could feel emotions from others he surely could feel how she felt. And certainly something she would treasure and tell her children once she would be a mother, and their children would she be a grandmother. It felt like freedom, and if no concerns ever exited.

''How high do you usually go?'' she asked. Not indicating that he had to do so now, but she was just curious.

"Too high for you to go, little elf." Tatsu replied in a gentle rumble as he glided slowly through the wind currents. He would take them high enough to get them out of range of projectiles, but not much higher than that. If they ventured too high the temperature and air density would drop too sharply for those meant to live upon the ground. He wouldn't risk freezing or suffocating his passenger! Though he enjoyed the senses that radiated from the elf on his back. He knew she truly appreciated the honor he was bestowing upon her.

Moonlight shimmered and reflected off those of his scales that peeked through his short, soft fur. His body seemed to emit a soft glow as he absorbed the energy from the air and light around them. How wonderful would it have been to encounter a storm cloud? Well, not with Eälis on his back, but siphoning the energy from a storm would have certainly invigorated him. As it was, just the thrill of flying was soothing his hurts, and the energy he gained from the air and lunar light would sustain him for a while.

Tatsu was not the only one influenced by the moonlight. The closer they got, the more quiet Aluria got. Her kin gained energy from star and moonlight and perhaps she should have seen it coming. The gemstones glowed brightly and lines and symbols started to appear on her skin. Her hair started to become as white as the moon itself but she barely noticed. ''You see that star over there? The bright one close to the moon?  My people call it the Grieving Star. She is one of the first people who gave birth to a Moonelf. Her husband however wounded her mortally after their child was born because the child did not look like him. He thought she had been dishonest. To honor her for carrying the child she couldn't, Lunaria turned her into a star so she could always watch over her children'' It was a really short version. But if Tatsu wanted she could always tell him where they came from.

It was not until now she noticed her physical changes. ''Tatsu... I'm... glowing...'' not sure what was going on made her panic a little. Followed by a very sharp feeling of pain in her body. It only lasted a few seconds though. She was not sure what it caused. The moonlight? Was she absorbing to much of its power? Was that even possible? She most likely was the first of her kin eer being so close to the moon in the first place. Despite what was going on she still could not cease to amaze everything around her Tatsu showed.

With his eyes focused on looking ahead, Tatsu did not notice the physical changes to Eälis at first either. His ears laid back as she told him the story of what she called the Grieving Star. He'd never heard such a tale, but it was both a sad and infuriating one to him. How could a male harm his mate? How could a male bring himself to harm any female? It was...inconceivable.

Something strange was happening on his back, however. Tatsu's head twisted around to look at his passenger as soon as he felt some feeling of panic from her. His eyes glowed brightly as he felt her pain, his magic twisted and surrounded Eälis like an invisible barrier, cloaking her from the moonlight's energy. He could absorb and maintain a high level of energy, but he had carelessly not considered if the little elf could handle such power. Her body was so much more fragile than his.

"I am sorry, I did not think." He rumbled softly, still gazing at her in concern. "Shall we land? What do you need me to do?"

''I'm ok'' Eälis assured. ''There was a brief moment of pain but it is gone. I most likely stored what energy I had to much in the rest of the crystals'' she calmed herself down. ''We can stay here for as long as you like. It is beautiful up here.'' her gaze went to the moon and stars above them.

She was not sure how much distance they had made from their previous location yet either. Those whom had attacked Tatsu with the spears were not crazy. They would come back for those spears and perhaps collect the blood he had shed. Or those other persons whom had been close, would eventually know something was off and find the cave in its normal state.

"Should I shield you from further energy? I do not want you harmed because of over exposure. You should not take in more than you can reasonably handle. If you are hurt in my care I would suffer great shame." Tatsu's rumbling voice was dripping with concern as his pale eyes continued to examine her critically, as if searching for injury to her person. His own safety being endangered did not cross his mind at all. Strength was returning to him, and no mortal could harm him if he moved to defend himself.

''I think shielding would not be a bad idea. I will soon run out of gems to put the energy into'' she admitted. At the least she would not have to worry about that for a while. ''It will maybe be another thing to add to the list of things I need to learn isn't it.'' she had a weak blush on her cheeks. She was a moonelf for crying out loud. One who can not even handle the moons energy properly. What more was faulty about her she wondered.

"Then you will be shielded. I will teach you how to shield yourself. Only energy and magic you want should be permitted to enter you. We will practice blocking unwanted energy later." Tatsu made sure his magic surrounded Eälis, the energy seeping into himself instead of moving into her. His head turned away again as he once again focused on where they were going. He had seen her slight blush, and could feel the negative emotions coming from her.

"Do not judge yourself too harshly, Miss Eälis. I do no think less of you. Everyone has their own limits. We will find and expand yours."

Eälis listened to his words and nodded. Yes. She was going to learn. And perhaps someday be safe enough to be around her own kin again or others. She lowered her body a little. Still amazed by the surroundings. Inhaling the cool evening air and very weak lights in the distance where perhaps a town was settled or just people camping. It was to far to see. She sat up straight again and slowly released her already soft grip from his manes. Merely doing this since she got the feel of it and how to keep balanced. For a moment she spreaded her arms. Preferably she wanted to release a sound of exitement but the chance of being heard by unwanted persons prevented her doing so.

Her hands took a gentle hold of Tatsu's manes again soon enough. ''Thank you for letting me experience this. It is amazing.'' she whispered.

"I could not leave you behind. This was the fastest and easiest method of traveling a long distance. We will not always fly, but you will fly with me again." Although Tatsu's body was moving in an almost lazy slither through the air, the ground was passing fairly swiftly beneath them. He was not merely taking her for a leisurely ride, they were heading for a destination. Not that Tatsu had told her where they were going, and not that he had been sure where to go. Once in the air he'd made up his mind, and the elf had agreed to follow where he led her.

Despite she did not know him for long she did trust Tatsu. Also she knew what she would temporarily leave behind. She had not been home for years but she could, if she dared doing so. But wherever their destination for tonight would be, she doubt it would be in Serendipity. Knowing that they would fly again made her smile. ''And I will treasure every second of it.'' she looked at her arms that still had the glowing marks on them. They had become less bright which for the time being she saw as a good sign. ''I suppose that Lunaria had not forsaken me after all...'' she paused briefly. ''My own kin never called me that neither thought it but outsiders that stayed and knew of me tended to call me the forsaken one. Because I did not receive the first light when I was born.''

"There is nothing forsaken about you." Tatsu rumbled softly before falling silent again. Their flight was smooth and steady, he enjoyed watching the world flow beneath him as he sailed towards Adela. He should have waited until he was in those borders before transforming. There would have been no injury and no need for healing. Dragon hunting was forbidden in the lands of the dragon riders. Not that there was never poaching, but it was much less likely.

It was hours before Tatsu finally began descending. Slowly gliding them towards the ground. His charge had gone quiet many hours before, and he could sense her sleeping on his back. Good, she needed to be rested. For himself, Tatsu felt revitalized by the flight, having absorbed a great deal of energy from the moonlight and even the air and clouds. The sun would be rising very soon. "Wake up, little elf. We are here."

He needed her to hold on when he landed, just in case.

Ealis, still with white hair although the markings had completely faded woke up. She couldn't believe she had fallen asleep during this wonderful experience but did not blame herself for it. She took off her charged jewels before looking around but she did not recocnise the area. She was very far away from home.

Even so it was beautiful. ''Where are we Tatsu?'' she asked. ''I doubt it is still Serendipity''

Tatsu was able to glide to the ground in a gentle downward spiral, landing lightly enough that his passenger wasn't likely to feel more than a slight jostle. "We crossed into Adela while you slept. We are near the Draconi Forest. I avoided the Thunderbacks. I did not wish to run into a wild wyvern or a hostile dragon."

He lowered himself to the ground carefully so that Eälis could get down from his back easier. "We will travel on foot for now."

Eälis softly touched the ground with her feet although her first two steps were a bit wobbly. ''Fair enough'' she said brushing her now moonwhite, lightly glowing hair behind her ear. ''The Thunderbacks... I read about it... on the list of places wise not to cross on my own. ''

She looked at a few of her crystals. They were not broken but out of precaution she took them all off and put them away in a pouch. The last thing she needed now was more energy. It would be best to get rid of some of the energy her body had taken in before having the crystals giving some off.

A thought struck her. ''I am most likely the first or second to be so far away from home.'' she said with a chuckle.

"Sage advice." Tatsu commented idly as he peered towards the very heavy forest they were skirting. Anyone that wasn't powerful enough to take on an enraged dragon would be wise to avoid venturing too deeply into those stormy peaks.

With his passenger safely on the ground once more, his body gained the familiar glow of his transformation as he shifted back to the mostly human form he seemed to favor. A hand was lightly smoothed over his blue and silver armor.

"Is that so? You will likely go much farther with me. I travel a great deal. We will go to Essyrn eventually, perhaps as far as the island nations, does that frighten or excite you?" He hoped that she would not fear exploring so much of the world. Not everyone enjoyed venturing so far from home.

''Of course I'm exited!'' she said and chuckled. ''And maybe a bit frightened. But that is more because I do not know what to expect.'' she admitted looking at him with a smile after she watched him morph. ''I am sure that I will be ok though. Wherever you take me and no matter how hard the training will be.''

"It is natural to have some small fear of the unknown, but you will never be in danger during training. I would never harm you, and would never intentionally put you in harm's way." Tatsu was studying her drastically changed hair, noting that the glowing symbols on her body had disappeared. That had certainly been an unintentional result of their late night flight. He would have to shield her from now on whenever they went up, at least until she could shield herself.

"I think we will work on drawing and releasing energy, and of preventing oneself from absorbing unwanted energy. I am truly sorry for earlier. I had no idea it would effect you so."

''No need to say sorry though I did not know either. But starting with drawing and releasing energy and keeping out what I do not want would be a good place to start. All of my crystals are at full capacity too. At the least it does not hurt anymore.'' Ealis gave him a warm smile. ''The markings are all gone so should be a matter of time for my hair to return to normal. If not well. I kind off like it.'' she indeed did not look pained or worried about her current condition and when they would be on  a place Tatsu would prefer to start training, she would do her best.

It was true that Eälis no longer appeared to be in any kind of distress. There were no hints of pain or undue fatigue. Tatsu's expression remained mostly neutral as he turned his attention to the forest laid out before them. The Draconi Forest was vast, and could be dangerous for the weak or careless, but he was neither weak nor careless.

"I think we should find a good place to make camp for a few days. We will begin training almost immediately. The sooner you learn better control the sooner we may pass safely through more populous areas without concern of an incident." Her safety was his primary concern, but the safety of others did also need to be considered. He would rather not laden her with the guilt of having harmed someone she did not mean to.

Ëalis nodded. ''Sounds fair.'' she looked around for a place where they could make camp. The edge of the forest was most likely the best option. Any form of training could be done just outside of the forest and when they rested, they could be concealed by the trees. Assuming Tatsu prefered her not to create illusions.

There was not really a spot that stood out however. ''We could camp at the edge of the forest. We will have the space to train, and the forest for cover. Or do you prefer a little bit further in.'' she asked.

"We should camp by a stream. A readily available supply of fresh water for drinking and bathing is essential when camping for several days." Tatsu did not know how long they would spend going over the first few lessons he had in mind, and they would not leave until she had learned them. Plus he enjoyed being clean.

He gestured for her to follow him as he started walking southwest. There were many springs and small rivers that fed into the much larger river that flowed through the region. It wouldn't take long to find one and settle themselves. "Miss Ëalis, tell me more about yourself and your people."

Her voice would fill the silence and he was certainly curious to hear about her and the moon elves. Learning more about his student was also important. They would be spending a great deal of time together during her training.

''I come from a village in Serendipity. we are with about 300 moonelves and a small hundred of orphans and others who have no place to go. The first of my kin were born from elven couples blessed by the sungod Solos, and the moongoddes Lunaria. Using the stars, the moonelves found one another and made villages. We hide ourselves mainly though by weaving illusionmagic in the woods we live in. Those with bad intentions get lost. We live in a peaceful way. Life is sacred to us and despite some have learned how to fight, killing is a really bad sin to us and shall not resort to it until we really must. Like a severe wounded suffering animal. We wear no leather or suede. But mainly wool, linen and silks. We eat no meat either. But do drink milk and eat eggs. Also, we are dependant on moonlight or sunlight or starlight to live. The average is that we can last without for about a week. To make sure we are never without we have solid lightcrystals which we use to store the lights energies in. By either touching the stones or puting them in a glass of water we can take the energy in.'' She explained. She was curious about tatsu's kin too but waited wirh asking until she was certain Tatsu knew what he had wanted to hear.

It all sounded rather idyllic to Tatsu. Considering his extensive travels it was a wonder that he had never actually been to this apparently rather small settlement of unusual elves. "When you are ready to return home, I think I would like to see it. If you would not mind my presence, that is. I would not wish to intrude upon your private life, Miss Ëalis."

As they walked he had sent out his own energy, tentatively searching the surrounding area, finding what he was looking for, Tatsu slightly altered course to lead them to a suitable location for their camp. If you listened closely you could already hear the flowing water.

''I would love to show you where I live and I am sure everyone there would be delighted to meet you. When the time is there that is.'' she said with a wide smile. She felt very much at ease right now. As the sound of the flowing water got louder she smiled even more once they reached their soon to be campsite. ''If it is not to much to ask. Could I ask about your home too?'' she had told some about hers and hoped Tatsu could tell about his.

Tatsu paused, standing in the center of the area he intended to see their camp laid out. It was far enough from the stream to be out of danger of high water should heavy rains come, but close enough to be convenient. The camp itself would be tucked among the trees, but was still adjacent to the open plains.

His mind turned inwards as he thought about his home. Did anywhere really count as a home to him now? No, he didn't suppose so. "My home has not existed for thousands of years. The land is still there, of course, but it has not been my home for a long, long time, and never will be again."

The moonelf looked at the spot. It was a good place for a camp. Would she need new star, moon or sunlight it was easy to get it from here, the plains or even the river when she would bathe.

Eälis was not sure how to respond to Tatsu's words. ''Can... can I ask what happened?'' she said. She did not want to force him to tell her, if he did not want too then she simply would never ask again. She did not show it but somewhere she had a really bad heavy feeling inside.

"Have you ever heard of an Ellanari Sky Dragon?" Tatsu hadn't moved, his eyes lightly closed and a gentle breeze caused his pale hair to sway softly. Who had heard of his kind? Not many, and probably not an elf from an isolated village. "We had a large colony, for hundreds of thousands of years, long before humans even walked this earth. Such young, impulsive creatures, humans. We pitied them, once. My kind tried to help them, but humans are greedy, selfish things. They are like children that have not yet matured."

He gave a great sigh, before turning to look at his young elven student. Tatsu's expression had not changed, but there was a profound sorrow in his pale eyes. "Once the humans learned that our very bodies were rife with magic, they hunted us, butchered us to use our parts in their spells and potions. Several thousand years ago was what we called The Great Hunt. The hunt did not stop until there were no more of us for them to kill. None but me, and I only escaped because I fled and hid. It is why I have the form you now see, and why when we do venture into civilization you will never refer to my true nature."

The Great Hunt had ended a long time ago, and no humans were left alive that would actually remember the events. He very much doubted any humans they came across would know how truly valuable Tatsu was, but he wasn't going to risk it.

''...'' There were no words right now that could describe how she felt hearing this. How... how could they have done this. Surely she had met unfriendly humans but the larger number was kind. Empathic and caring. ''I... I should not have asked.. how.. how could they do this...'' it had been a while since she felt angry and the direction of the winds had slowly changed.

''It's not fair..'' she did not yell loud but surely spoke not as soft as she usually did and even the water of the river seemed not to flow as calmly as before. A crack of energy escaped from her fingers unknowingly clenched into a fist and found a tree. Cracking open its bark for a good two meters in length. Hearing that sound though made Eälis realise she had to regain her calm nature. But fortunatly it was a tree and not a person. Her hand where the energy escaped from hurt too and felt as if it had been badly burned. But she did not look yet. The wind and water become normal in several seconds.

''I'm... so sorry you had to go through so much pain. People will never hear from me what you are I promise.''

Tatsu could feel the magic around him as Ëalis lost her temper a little. He did not move or flinch as the tree splintered and the bark split. By the time that Ëalis regained control of her emotions so had he, and his eyes did not reflect the deep hurt inside any longer.

"I am fine, do not worry yourself over the past." The past, after all, could not be changed. Besides, this arrangement was about her, about helping her learn to control her powers better. It was time he started teaching. "We should begin our lessons with releasing excess energy."

He glanced at the tree she had damaged and amended his statement slightly by adding, "Non-violently. Considering your current excess I feel this is the most pressing lesson at this time. The simplest method is grounding oneself. Most easily done by standing barefoot upon the ground and focusing on feeling the energy inside oneself. Close your eyes and picture the energy as a bright light that fills you, then not only visualize that energy seeping from yourself into the ground, but you must also feel it do so. Only do this until you feel that your levels are appropriate."

Eälis nodded. True. Taking in and releasing energy was a big issue.

Before she started she took her boots off. The feel of the earth beneath her feet and between her toes perhaps would be better since she was new at this.
She closed her eyes and breathed slowly in through her nose, and exhaled calmly through her mouth. At the least she had plenty of energy to spare right now.

Visualise. That was not so difficult. But having the energy she had now seep out of her proved to be more of a challenge. She felt the energy the moonlight gave her in every fibre of her body but somehow it was not as easy to let it out compared to taking it in. Her eyes closed, still calmly breathing. Fortunatly she was not easily frustrated or impatient.

It took her a good 15 minutes until very slowly little strains of energy left her body. The tips of her hair slowly turning back to black. The reason why it maybe took so long was also because she was a bit afraid to much energy would leave at the same time. Or perhaps even everything she had.

The energy that left her got taken into the earth, the trees and the water. Slowly but sure she managed releasing more and more energy. It all seemed to go well until a brief wave of nausia hit her causing Eälis to suddenly release a lot more. Perhaps even to much since she fell backwards on the moss and fallen leaves. But she did manage to stop the flow of energy right away. Panting heavily and sweat had formed a thin sheet on her skin. It was also not until now she realised her hand that released the violent energy from before had blisters from several burns.

Tatsu watched and waited very patiently, remaining silent so as not to disturb Ëalis's concentration. It wasn't as if he expected immediate results. Certainly not perfection. Finally he observed the energy flows beginning to shift and move. At first things seemed to be going smoothly enough, if slowly, but when Ëalis released a burst of energy and fell Tatsu immediately moved to her side.

Kneeling down he placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, his eyes full of concern. "Are you alright? You must remain in absolute control of the flow of energy, never taking in or releasing more than you intend. You will need to learn to maintain control even under extreme pressure and distraction, but for now that was not a bad first attempt. Rest a moment."

''Right..'' the elf said still panting. ''I lost it when I suddenly felt really... sick for a moment...'' from her bag she took some cream, applied it to her injured hand and slowly the burns and blisters vanished. Even so the phantompain would linger for a little while.

''Looks like my hair is back to normal. Pity. I liked the white.'' she jestered although that was more to calm herself down.

''Whats the plan... I can regain energy from the crystals and try again..'' she suggested.

Tatsu frowned softly, still concerned, especially as he watched her injured hand. He took the now healed hand in his and ran his fingers over the skin lightly. "You must be careful and in control. I do not want to see you or others harmed over this."

He sighed and released her hand. "I will give you energy, save what is stored in your crystals. Let me know when you are ready."

''Understood.'' Eälis replied. She did had enough gemstones and charging them was easy. After this, bathing in the water despite it being night would do her much good too.

She closed her eyes and breathed calmly. Waiting for Tatsu to give energy to her. Hopefully thistime it would go better. ''Ready.''

"I will go very slowly. When you feel that you have enough, try to stop me. We will practice both releasing and blocking that way." Tatsu gently took her hand again, cupping it in both of his as he let energy slowly seep from himself into her. The physical connection made the transference easier, and he hoped that it would also aid Eälis.

"Remember, focus is key, but you need have no fear. I am in control and will stop if you cannot stop me yourself." He also would not provide much resistance. For now he would cease if she could muster even a small defense. They would work on the strength of her blocking after she learned the basic technique.

Receiving energy this way felt a lot different then getting it from the moon or sun, where it felt as if, when paying activly attention to it, could feel like a river flowing with life. It could feel intoxicating.

This more felt a bit like electricity at her hand. But enery was not the only thing she got. A feeling. A fraction of the inner pain that ran deep within Tatsu's being. Dispair and cold. Something was missing but she could not place it. She did know for sure however that inside, a large part of Tatsu had become broken. She only had the feeling briefly but long enough. It could not be seen by her expression, posture or breathing she had felt it. It was actually the second time only now it was clearer.

If this was truely how broken inside Tatsu was, then perhaps, when she was strong enough herself she could help him if he let her. Just like how he helped her now. The little slip of that thread of his soul though. She would make it her task to fix it. But for now, she first had to learn to fix herself.

When having received enough energy she attempted to gently block him out. Normally she would most likely not stand a chance. But his resistence was low and because of that she managed to block the flow of energy.

Tatsu had no idea that emotions could be transferred with the energy, and with no indication from Eälis, he remained unaware that she was seeing glimpses of his inner self. He had always held a very firm grip on his emotions, showing very little expression in comparison to what was actually inside of him. It would have troubled him to know he was sharing such pain with his student.

The flow of energy stemmed and stopped, very gently he prodded at the shield that had formed between them, before withdrawing his hand and the energy he had been giving. "Very good, Miss Eälis. When you have more control over the transference we will work on the strength of your shields. How do you feel? If you ever need to stop, please say so."

''I'm alright. '' Eälis assured. ''I just hope I will not get a wave of sickness again like just before.'' she got on her feet and closed her eyes once more. Maybe for just a bit longer she would have liked to touch his hand but there was work to be done. Although hard perhaps she would learn this in a few tries.

She was aware of the dirt between her feet and a wurm somewhere between her toes. She placed her foot elsewhere since the tickling distracted her a bit. Slowly, she started to release it again.

She released the energy at the same pace as before. Steady but not to quickly. And when the feeling of sickness came again she managed to remain steady instead of that she let all of the energy flow out in one go. She did reduce it until nothing came out.

''It seems that when I am half way... my body protests like crazy...'' she said and sighed deeply after breathing in calmly. Not wanting to throw up.

Tatsu watched his pupil's progress, scowling softly as he felt the change in the flow of energy before it stopped. Obviously Eälis was struggling with something, but he did not understand why there was a problem, her technique seemed fine. Pale eyes roamed over her, concern mingling with confusion as she relayed her self-observations.

"It is curious that your body would protest, do you harbor unconscious fears? Perhaps your body rebels from fear of dying, which it should not since you are in no danger." Tatsu sighed softly and approached her again, letting a thin connection of energy between them form. "Draw energy from me. If you feel that you can try again, we will proceed, but if you need a break, I think it would be a good time to make ourselves comfortable here. I have a feeling we may be here for several days."

''One more time..'' Eälis spoke determined.

''I do not know why my body protests. Maybe subconsciously it does not want me to release it, since it knows what happens when I have a lack of energy. I had it once. Hence I got so many crystals with me.'' she said as she carefully drew energy from Tatsu. ''There were dark nights and days where clouds blocked the sunlight, moonlight and starlight for about 5 days... if it would have went on longer we most likely never would have met.''

She remembered how frightened she was but did not feel such feers consciously now.

Tatsu nodded his head solemnly, trusting her judgment about her own limits if she wished to try the exercise once more before resting. The knowledge of her ordeal was troubling, but it certainly made sense of her body's rebellion to the releasing of energy. The physical memory of becoming so weakened would be a block they would have to work through if Eälis was to succeed in the long term.

"Your body will learn not to fear the release, in time. For now we will simply have to work through it slowly and gently. Try again." His voice was gentle and encouraging. Hopefully she would come to trust him explicitly - mind, body, and soul - but trust in him was not enough, she would have to have such unfettered trust in herself as well. Only then could fear leave her completely.

After taking enough energy from Tatsu, she stopped taking anymore. Centered herself and once more, Eälis let the energy out gently and a little quicker then before. ''I am sure it will pass with the passage of time.'' she said. It sounded suprisingly confident.

She did not like to linger in the past and sulk about negative experiences. If she did then she would never be able to do this either. There was one way for her. And that was forward.

She stopped the release of energy as her body seemed to disagree with her mental thoughts. It hurt terribly but she did not scream. Instead she allowed herself to fall forward on her hands and knees. Considering to release a little more to reach the level her body would not feel a thing but it would perhaps make things worse.
''I'm alright..'' she said before Tatsu would perhaps worry. ''I just need a minute..''

Tatsu opened his thread of energy, not resisting as Eälis siphoned it away. Her confidence was admirable, a sign of her determination to accomplish her goals. She was continuously reaffirming his decision to help guide her learning as a good choice on his part.

The process of releasing seemed to be going well until she fell forward onto her hands and knees. Despite her attempts at reassurance, Tatsu was kneeling next to her, a hand lightly placed on her back, his magic gently probing for injury, and his face was a mask of concern. "No more for now, you will rest and try again later. There is no hurry, and harming yourself will only further delay your progress."

Eälis nodded silently. Maybe she had overestimated herself a little. She was not injured which she was actually rather suprised about herself. No nosebleeds or skin that had torn open. ''I'll be ok. I'll take a bath... one in moonlight will do me good.''

A thought then struck her. ''You have no problem with a naked woman near you right? My kin is rather openminded about sharing baths and such...'' most wether child, teen or adult bathed together mixed or with just others of their own gender. It was not strange to give someone other then your lover a backscrub either.

Tatsu had smoothed his hand over her back soothingly, his magic gently moving over and through her as he reassured himself that Eälis was unharmed. When she mentioned taking a bath in the moonlight he removed his hand and nodded.

"Cleanliness is important, although the water might run cold in the stream." When she pointed out that she would be naked and asked about it he turned his eyes onto her passively. For a moment he merely observed her, his expression neutral. "Nudity is a natural state. I do not intend to either watch you bathe or bathe with you, but your nudity will not offend me."

''Good.'' She said softly as she looked at him.''I do not worry about the cold. I've gotten used to it by now.''

She got on her feet when it felt right to do so again and headed to the watee where she undressed and neatly colded her clothes. ''If you change your mind... I will not mind if you join me.'' She spoke as she enrered the moonlit water. A smile formed on her lips as the coolness numbed the pain she still felt.
The moonlight felt like a cradle too. She hoped Lunaria was not to worried

Tatsu remained kneeling next to Eälis, not touching her, but within easy reach if she needed to reach out to him for any reason, or should her condition further deteriorate. Thankfully she stood in short order and walked to the water. True to his word, as he stood, the dragon masquerading as a man kept his back to the water, not glancing in the direction of the naked young elf. Even her gentle reminder that he was welcome to join her did not turn his head in Eälis's direction.

Most other males would have been enticed and tempted by such a display of fine young flesh, but Tatsu did not seem to even flinch or hesitate at the knowledge that he had an open invitation to bathe with a gorgeous young woman. Even had he looked, or stared, he would have felt nothing. Losing his mate had stolen a mighty portion of him, including all sense of desire or lust. Even had he wanted to, he simply could no longer feel sexual attraction or arousal. That part of him had withered and died with his soulmate.

Instead he found a comfortable place to rest, his back to a tree and eyes focused on the forest away from where his companion refreshed herself. His legs were crossed neatly and his hands rested lightly on his knees as he entered an almost meditative state. Despite his lack of attention, Tatsu was acutely aware of everything around him, including Eälis.

The bathing did her good and the moonlight combined with the cool water took her pain away. She realised that she had forgotten to tell Tatsu one thing, which was that her people culd act a little bit feisty when exposed to the light they represented. Women when bathing in moonlight. Men when bathing in the sun.

She supposed it mattered little now though. She went fully under for a moment before she sat calmly in the water where she seemed to meditate. Truth be told she was wondering a couple of things which she asked to her Godess in her head. To some things, she got an answer. Some, not. When done she thanked Lunaria and got out of the water. Drying herself with a cotton towel she had taken out of her bag before bathing and put on some simple clothes.

''There... all better'' she said almost feeling as good as new. There was a healthy blush now on her cheeks as well. She looked at Tatsu for a moment and with a knife she skillfully cut some reeds which she could weave to make a basket.

Tatsu's eyes had fallen lightly closed as his consciousness had slowly expanded, taking in and feeling his surroundings. He could sense and hear the insects that moved through the dirt and grass, he could feel the pulse of the stream as it flowed along its gentle current. The movements of his bathing student, and the presence that seemed to surround her were observed but he moved on from that to seek out other lifeforms. For a short time he focused on the heartbeats of a small herd of deer, simply enjoying the rhythm of their life force.

Until Eälis finished bathing, at least. His eyes opened slowly as he peered up at her, observing her quietly as went to work on some reeds. "Why do you blush? I did not set my gaze upon you while you bathed." Not to mention her continued assurance that he could join her, so the blush that graced her cheeks now confused him slightly.

''I forgot to tell you... For women of my kin to bathe in the moonlight in that manner... it grants us more energy but it has some... side effects.'' Eälis replied. ''For men it is when they bathe in the day. But... it kind of makes us a little... how to call it... feisty. At least rather close to it. Those who actually have a mate, experience it the strongest and often results in lovemaking. Don't worry though I am not that sensitive for it. First off, I have no mate, and second my energy is better spent on other things. I did not stay in long enough to get the full effects but do not be suprised if you hear me purr when I bathe while the moon is it. But it also makes me feel more alive.'' she spoke calmly.

That was certainly interesting information. Tatsu still looked mildly puzzled. If such a reaction was not uncommon, then why would men and women bathe together unless they were mated? Would it not cause discomfort and embarrassment to those without mates? He did not experience any reaction to nudity, but most were not like himself. If he could still feel those desires would he find nudity embarrassing? He wasn't sure, he could not remember a time when he even felt such things.

"I see. That is certainly valuable information to know. I will remember it." Tatsu had never had intention to bathe with Eälis, but now he knew for sure that he would likely be declining all future invitations to share the water. No matter if she did not feel the effects too strongly, or only towards a mate, he'd rather avoid making her uncomfortable even on accident. Not to mention he was accustomed to those that were more modest in any regard.

Sighing he rose from where he was sitting, despite not wishing to bathe with his student, he had been covered in his own blood and did wish to cleanse himself. Now that she was finished, it was his turn. "Spend your time resting and relaxing as you see fit, Miss Eälis. I will be taking my turn to bathe now. There will be no further lessons tonight, I think."

With that he moved to the stream, finding a place where the water was deep enough and the current was lazy, he removed his clothing and stepped into the cold water. Tatsu was stoic much of the time, but a slight shudder moved through him at the chill. The moonlight reflected off the smears of almost shimmering silver blood that coated his skin in places. It wasn't until he was submerged to his waist that he began to lightly scrub the stains away.

''No more lessons despite I want to would be wise... Lunaria scolded me..'' she admitted as she continued weaving the basket. She wondered if he would allow her to peek or would be angry. He did not peek with her after all.

Eventually she did look. A little. He had a fair built she noticed that much with her quick glance. ''Need some help washing everything off?'' she asked. Figuring that maybe he could not reach all spots

Tatsu had his back to Eälis as he washed, so even had she stared it was unlikely that he'd have noticed her gaze, at least not directly. The blood was carried away by the water, dried as it was, it wiped away easily. When Eälis called out to him offering to help him, Tatsu turned to look at her as she sat working on her basket. "No, thank you."

Now he was facing her, the water still up to his waist, until he dipped down to submerge himself briefly before standing again and lightly running his fingers through his now damp hair. Magic tingled over his skin, shedding all the dirt and excess oil from him as he cleansed the filth of the day away. Despite the cold he seemed content to bathe in leisure, not rushing to get out at all.

She did look away when he declined her offer and finished the basket before getting on her feet. ''I will look for some food.''

She had seen some berry and nut bushes, root vegetables and herbs. She gently picked and plucked and was more then delighted when finding a few fruitbearing trees whose sight almost made her cheer. They could eat well for a few days.

Upon return, she had apples, wild peach, various berries, nuts, potatoes, carrots and onions. ''I hope you are hungry'' she said when she returned to the camp.

Tatsu did not look up when Eälis announced she would look for food. He simply continued his grooming for several more minutes before fetching his clothing from the bank and submerged and soaked the soiled garments before using magic to clean them thoroughly. The dried blood would have made them smell in addition to stiff and unpleasant to wear. Using magic to dry them once they were cleansed he found Eälis's soiled dress and gave it the same treatment.

When he left the stream for the final time magic pulled the water from his body, drying him completely before he dressed slowly and moved back to camp, neatly folding the clean dress and setting it back with the rest of Eälis's things. When she returned she would find him seated in much the same way, and in the same place, as he had been when she had finished bathing.

Tatsu didn't look up or open his eyes as he rested comfortably. "You should eat first. I am alright." Most of his nutrition came purely from the energy around him, but that did not mean he would not appreciate and enjoy the food she had brought. He simply did not require as much of it as another might.

''Ahw..'' Eälis said softly before sitting down and started to peel the nuts. ''It is more fun eating together though... but if you insist...''

After peeling the nuts, she peeled the potatoes and cut them into cubes. The same for the carrots, and the onion was sliced in half rings.

She filled 2 pans with water and let them both boil before adding carrot, most of the potatoes and most sliced onion in one pan, allowing it to stew, while in the other she put the herbs, a bit of the potato she had put aside, and a small onion which she first carefully allowed to brown at the fire which with time would make a nice herbal kind of gravy. Then a small pan came up in which she put a little bit of water, and heated it. Peeling the apples in the meantime, cutting them in quarters before putting them in the water so they could stove. She added some powder to it which could be identified as cinnamon when the scents started to slowly fill the camp.

"I will not go hungry, Miss Eälis. Make certain that you have had your fill, I would not see you go without." Tatsu could see that there was plenty of food for a meal, but the longer they stayed, the more of the local resources would be consumed. He honestly was not expecting when Eälis began cooking in earnest.

Pale eyes watched with mild fascination as she worked. The scents were certainly good, especially the cinnamon. He couldn't cook very well. Only very basic tasks, such as roasting meat over a fire. Not that he often ate meat. Given present company he doubted he'd eat any meat for quite some time. "You seem to know what you are doing with food."

''I can not make a lot of different dishes... but what I make is usually good.'' Eälis replied. She turned the apples around a little and stirred the gravy which started to thicken due to the potato in it. As final she checked the carrot, onion and potato mix. It seemed to go well. ''I like cooking. Although I am more of a taste for sweet fruits. I will not rest until I tried them all. From everywhere.'' she stated and paused.

''But nothing, beats chocolate.'' she giggled. ''To bad it is so expensive though.'' she checked the berries and sorted which ones were better off being turned into compote, and which could be eaten normally.

''Having proper nutricion makes sure you can travel better too. Makes sure that the body stays strong.''

"In all my years I have not learned to cook. I get most of what I need from absorbing the energy of nature, most of what I consume I eat raw or purchase already cooked." Tatsu could probably learn if he tried, but he had no desire to prepare food. He was also a fan of sweet fruits and chocolate, and made a note to purchase some of the rare sweets for Eälis when he chanced upon a vendor selling them.

"We will both need our strength." The dragon agreed, closing his eyes as he simply enjoyed the smell of the cooking meal.

The berries that were to soft to survive the night were added to the apple and when the food was done she removed the pans from the heatsource. ''It is convenient you can absorb nature's energies in such a way. If you ever wish to learn how to make a simple dish as this let me know. I will teach you. And whatever will be left today will still be good tomorrow.

''Can I offer you something as well? If you only want mash pot or just the fruit it is fine too.'' she said after she had put some of the mash pot and the thick brown herbal gravy in one of the bowls.

Tatsu was several thousand years old and had not learned to cook yet, somehow he did not think that he would be devoting much of his time to learning the skill now. It just was not a skill he thought was particularly useful to him personally given his usual dietary habits. "I am content to leave the cooking to those already possessing the skills, Miss Eälis."

His eyes remained closed as he listened to her movements as she filled a bowl for herself and offered him food. "Only if you insist."

''Insist huh... '' she said with a warm smile. ''I do not want to force it on you. But I am confident with making this.'' she winked. ''But if you do not feel like it I will simply not fill a second bowl and eat the rest tomorrow.'' she assured.

''To bad you have not learned how to cook. It is a form of relaxation for me too.''

"Are you implying that I am not relaxed?" Tatsu asked with an arched brow and a hint of amusement. He didn't see cooking as a means of relaxation, but he supposed for some people it might be. Just not him.

His first instinct was still to refuse to eat, saving it for Eälis, but while he did not need a great deal of food Tatsu was still required to eat some food. Even with the healing he had received and his own natural ability to heal, the last couple days had drained him. The flight had been refreshing, but he should probably still eat something.

"I will eat what you give me, Miss Eälis. We both must maintain our strength, even if that requires me to amend my stubborn defiance."

Eälis handed him the bowl and scooped up one for herself too. ''If you want more there is plenty.'' she assured. Well plenty. Her portions were never big no matter what she made and she made sure it would not spoil within 36 hours. In Summers she only made actual portions for herself to make sure it would not rot.

''I had not implied you are currently not relaxed. Just saying it is a way for some people.'' she chuckled and took a spoonfull of the mash pot. She smiled and then took another bite after finishing her first.

''Also. You call that stubborn? Try Moonelf children.'' she giggled.

Tatsu wordlessly took his bowl and hummed softly as he took his first bite. Of course it had smelled quite good, and he was not disappointed as he savored the simple dish. His pupil really was quite handy. At least they should be able to eat well during their training.

"Are Moonelf children any more stubborn than any other species of children? From my experience hatchlings are quite a handful, regardless of race." For a moment his eyes took on a bit of a faraway look, but he shook his head and continued eating.

''Well they are good at doing what you told them not to do. Till a certain degree though. Just before I left some strange venomous plants grew in the forest. Unfortunatly a few would not listen when it was forbidden for everyone with exception of the adults to go into the forest.'' there were a few fatal cases and a small amount survived barely.

''But it is also tempting to do things with illusion magic as well. I quickly learned that using magic without my tutors was a horrible idea.''

"All hatchlings are good at doing what they should not." Tatsu mused as he stared down into his bowl, brows furrowed slightly. It was disturbing to know that there was a venomous plant growing in the forests where the Moonelf children should have been free to play without fear. Perhaps he would have to look into that when it was safe to take Eälis home. At the very least he could study the plant to try to determine the type of toxin.

"Using magic when you are not fully prepared to control that magic is irresponsible. That is why we will remain away from people until your control has improved." He had no fear for himself, only for others, and Eälis most of all.

''I agree.'' Eälis replied. It was basicly why she had excluded herself from her people and mainly others too for as far as she could.

''Usually, in basicly most cases they stop right away when an accident happened. It is not until then most realise how dangerous raw magic can be. One was amusing though. He had the ability to communicate with wolves. Some of my kin have Dire wolves as compagions. But somehow his magic was taming them as well and he was followed by 5 litters.'' she smiled and chuckled at the memory before she resumed eating her food.

''Do you have good or fun memories?'' she was sure he had. Hopefully.

Tatsu was picking at his food, despite how good it might be, it was hard to focus on eating given the present conversation. He did smile faintly at the idea of several litters of dire wolf puppies following someone about. "I fear most of my good memories have become bittersweet, if you can imagine. They are still good memories, but they only serve to remind one of all that is lost. It is painful to remember."

Not nearly as painful as it could be, Tatsu knew that he had never experienced the loss or grief full force. The death of his mate had muted everything. Like the emotion had been partially stolen, but only because he was too numb to actually feel it. Time had not healed that wound.

''I'm sorry'' Eális replied. ''I should have refrained from asking..'' She had finished her bowl and cursed something to herself inside her head as she set it aside to clean later. ''Perhaps... we could make some good ones. Doing some fun stuff if time allows us.'' she suggested. Wether it was a good suggestion or not was something she would find out sooner or later.

"We are going to be in close proximity to one another for an extended period of time, Miss Eälis. These types of questions are going to come up. Do not apologize for your curiosity. Although I hope I do not sorely disappoint you when it comes to the idea of making fun memories. I am not sure that I am all that fun of an individual." Tatsu wasn't sure he even knew how to have fun in any way that another being might also perceive as fun. Pursuing all texts and gaining hidden knowledge - those were fun things to him. Finding and handling relics - that was fun to him. He wondered what his student would consider fun or not fun.

''I like a challenge.''Eälis replied with a smile. ''And there are many ways to have fun. From making music till playing with water. Even visiting a play. Blowing bubbles is fun too. Or something as simple as skipping through the streets on squares drawn on the pavement with chalk.'' she had picked up a few things from children in cities and villages she crossed.

Well the theatre was a good suggestion. Tatsu could certainly appreciate a finely scripted play, an elegantly performed ballet, or a masterfully orchestrated opera. However he arched a brow at her. "Could you really imagine a dragon skipping or blowing bubbles?"

That seemed somewhat comical of a notion to him!

''Why the heck not'' Eälis replied softly. ''I read a story about a monk with the ability to control air. He had a troubling student with the same magic who just could not sit still. The student, had to learn for if he did not, learning how to control his magic would only get harder. So the old monk, baked pies and placed them on a railing. He let his student blow away the pies on the other grand monks heads. Learned the kid to use his magic to fly short distances and change storms. Because of playing the young monk later became an elder and mastered his magic unlike anybody before. And still joked around with pies. His master enjoyed it when he was old. And he did too.'' she got on her feet and inhaled deeply before exhaling calmly. Spreaded her arms and created some joyfully illusions. Birds, Rabbits, butterflies which all created a smile on her face. They were all incomplete though. Morel ike luminescent lines.

''Not that I am the one to say those words but... everyone imprisons their own mind in some way. We sometimes just need to let it all go even if it is just for a second. Rolling down a hill or dive in a lake and see the miracles below the water.''

Tatsu listened attentively to her tale, but appeared otherwise unmoved by the story. His pale eyes did follow the merry movements of the illusions she made. When Eälis spoke again the dragon's eyes moved back to her face, studying her features for a few moments before he returned his attention to his bowl, which he had still not finished eating.

"Dragons do not 'let it all go' as you put it." The words weren't spoken harshly, but he turned his attention back to eating slowly.

''Nobody really does. It is just set aside very briefly. Or at the very back of our heads'' Eälis said softly before returning to the fire. The illusions had faded. ''But on that moment far away enough to experience a little of fun which we do not allow herself to have usually. What I did, with my magic. I will never forget. But in order to learn it will not happen again, I need to put it aside as much as I can.''

After Tatsu had finished his bowl Eälis cleaned the bowls and the cutlery that had been used. The pans were partly dug in after they had cooled down fully so they would not spoil. Not that the contends would though, two more servings and that would be it.

Regarding the cutting waste, she planted them a little further ahead so it would grow into new plants. From her bag however when she was done, she took a flute. Well. Sort of. It seemed she was still working on making it.

It wasn't as if Tatsu restricted himself from things he found enjoyable or took pleasure in, but the idea of 'letting go' or having 'fun' seemed strange and wrong. Even the things he enjoyed weren't really viewed as truly 'fun' in his mind. Even before the death of his mate Tatsu had not been considered a jovial creature - happy and content - but not jolly.

He finished his food without another word, not voicing any protest to Eälis cleaning up the meal herself. Instead Tatsu leaned back against the tree, sitting in a relaxed position as his eyes partially closed and took on a faraway look as he sank into his deeper thoughts. It wasn't until she pulled out the unfinished flute that he spoke again.

"Do you play?" He inquired quietly, without looking at her or his expression unchanging.

''Sometimes.'' Eälis admitted. ''I'm more a string instrument person though but I can not exactly bring a harp or piano with me.'' she said calmly. ''Music soothes me ever since I was a little kid. From song to instrument. It made me fall asleep easier too.'' Carefully, since the tools were a bit sharp she punctured some more holes that determined the notes.

''But I sell most of the flutes I make.''

Tatsu remained quietly contemplative for a few moments, it was unnatural how still he could be, but finally he slowly blinked his eyes. "Many find music to be soothing. Music is a language for the soul. My people loved music. We used to sing, songs like you could not comprehend. I would enjoy it very much if you would play for me sometime. Do you sing?"

''I do as a matter of fact.'' Ealis said. For whatever reason though her cheeks were a bit red. Embarresment or nervosity maybe?

''Most of my kin love music too. Many of our prayers are in song too. But my voice is not really anything special. I enjoy it though. Expressing feelings through music.'' She paused briefly. ''I.. would like to hear you too.''

"I fear any song I tried to sing would be a sad song indeed." Tatsu sighed softly, shifting ever so slightly so that he was looking at Eälis. "I find your voice pleasant in conversation, and I am sure that your singing would be just as pleasant to listen to."

For a moment he hesitated, then closed his eyes, concentrating as he drew up his own magic. At first nothing changed, but slowly sound would grow around them. It was almost too soft to hear at first, but it strengthened into soft rumbling, almost like a symphony of nature. Dozens of voices entered the chorus, humming and rumbling, soft and inhuman. If one listened closely they would be able to tell that there were words being spoken - in a flowing, dead language that none could remember, save him.

"We sang such songs." Tatsu opened his eyes again as the music faded once more, there was a heaviness to his voice, a pang of longing and loss echoed in his words.

''That was beautiful'' Eälis said softly. She figured though she'd have to sing as well. She had truth be told never been really confident about her singingvoice but regardless she sang a song (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrj-DxzPfaM) as well.

She sang it softly and maybe she did not hit all the notes properly. But still it was a song she loved very much.

Beautiful. And haunting. Tatsu closed his eyes as she began to sing, not only listening to her voice, but feeling the song reverberate through him. Perhaps she was not a professional singer, but he did not think that her singing was at all bad. Indeed, he enjoyed it very much.

"I do not know that song." He murmured softly. "It was lovely, and you sang it well."

Still with slightly colored cheeks, Eälis thanked him for his words. ''It is an old lullaby I once came across in a book of songs. It had washed ashore but magic kept it safe for some reason. Took me ages to translate it by guessing what the markings were but there were also some writings in common tongue.''

She worked a minute more on the flute until realising she was actually very, very tired. ''I should get some sleep I think. I should be fit for training again tomorrow.'' she said and exhaled calmly.

Tatsu mulled over what Eälis told him of this song book she had found. He had never heard of it, but even he had not seen every book to bee found. Although perhaps one day he might meet that fantastic goal.

For now he looked at his pupil intently for a moment before nodding. "Yes, you should rest now. We will work more in the morning."

Eälis nodded and packed away most of her stuff. A habit, really in case something would happen.

''Sweet dreams Tatsu.'' she said with a tired smile after laying down on her bedroll. ''And you too mother... father...'' she yawned silently and used her arm as a pillow. She fell asleep within a minute. Her body had been simply exhausted from the bit of energy training she had done and Eälis hoped she would do better tomorrow. It was just that her body remembering the painful feeling of being without energy was a huge hindrance. Something she really had to fight and win against if she wanted to progress.

She however slept without nightmares and awoke at dawn when the fire had reduced itself to nothing but charcoal and morningfrost had frozen the dew on the grass, moss and leaves.

Tatsu leaned back against his tree, eyes half-lidded and with a faraway quality as he watched his companion settle for the night. Eälis was soon asleep and once she was, the dragon allowed his mind to enter a deep meditative state, expanding his consciousness first beyond his body, and slowly extending himself farther and farther.

He was able to touch the minds of those he knew very far away, letting his presence ripple across their dreams. It was a very useful way to deliver messages, especially to Nellie, his adopted daughter. It still seemed strange that she was a grown woman. Mortals lived such short lives, he would blink and she'd be gone. The thought pained him.

Everyone was always gone.

It wasn't until the moon elf began to awaken that Tatsu brought his mind back to his body. His eyes slowly opened to peer at her passively. Training would begin after breakfast, he mused over his pupil for several moments before turning his head to the forest. "Good morning, Eälis. I hope you did not get too cold."

Perhaps he should have tended the fire.

''I am alright.'' Eälis assured.''I am used to cold. Even like it.'' She streched herself a little and rubbed her eyes. Have you rested well?'' She got on her feet and gathered water so she could brew some tea.

She hummed cheerfully and actually had a really good feeling about today.

With ease she used the charcoal and wood to make a new fire. Breakfast would basicly be last nights leftovers.

"I prefer to be warm, but I rested well enough." Perhaps Tatsu had not slept truly, but it had still been a restful night for him. His meditations were very relaxing while also being useful.

Pale eyes watched Eälis as she gathered water and restarted the fire. Tatsu did not move from his resting position against the tree. He wondered if his young student would find some offense to his passivity. After all, he made neither a move nor an offer to aid in any of her morning preparations.

"Let me know when you are ready to begin, but relax and enjoy your breakfast. There is no rush to begin." He closed his eyes again.

''Understood.'' Eälis replied. She made enough simple herbal tea for a few servings, and reheated a portion of last nights dinner for her to eat as breakfast.

She did not rush, but was not exactly slow either. And within the hour Eälis had eaten, done the dishes and refreshed herself. Binding her hair so it would not be in the way. ''Alright. I'm ready.'' she said and closed her eyes briefly to focus.

Maybe she was to harsh on herself. But today, regardless of physical pain or not she would have to get going.

Tatsu remained pensive and quiet as Eälis went about her morning routines of eating and cleaning up, though occasionally his pale eyes would wander over to her, watching her movements with guarded thoughts.

Training began almost immediately where it had left off the evening before. He gently pushed the young elf to her limits before backing off and showing a great deal of concern when Eälis even hinted at pain or distress - he had no desire to harm her.

"How do you feel? Please ask to stop when it becomes too much. I do not want you harming yourself because you wish to master something too quickly."

''I'm alright I promise.'' Eälis assured. Yes of course it hurt when her body feared she would run out of energy but every time she received energy and let it go again it hurt less and less.

Still. Having pain over and over again was exhausting. A thin sheet of sweat was on her body. It was difficult but she seemed to grow accustomed to both receiving energy and releasing it.

She did however, several hours later say she had to stop. Feeling her body started to protest and she was not wrong. She trembled but had not worked herself to so much exhaustion that she could no longer stand. This, was her training limit. No nosebleeds. Not feeling dizzy. Enough physical power to remain standing.

Tatsu remained focused on the lesson, concentrating on the ebb and flow of energy to ease his troubles over knowing that his pupil was feeling pain and discomfort throughout the entire training session. He hated the idea that he was bringing any amount of harm to her all in the name of teaching her better control.

Especially when it was obvious that the hours of magic cycling didn't phase him hardly at all while Eälis finished their lesson covered in sweat and trembling.

Pulling his energy back, Tatsu let his pale eyes roam over Eälis with concern, trying to judge how much he had exhausted her. "We are finished for the day. You will relax and rest until morning." It wasn't a suggestion.

''Understood.'' Eälis replied and sat down against a tree. She felt exhausted to say the least. At the least she had no nosebleeds and the like but it felt good to sit down for a while.

--

Days of intense training passed and Eälis did get better. She lasted longer with the energy she had and her limits had actually greatly expanded. Enough to eventually move further.

The weather was cold as the winds had changed two weeks after the start of the training. Grey and dark clouds having covered the sun, moon and starlight for over four days. Despite having gotten stronger, the training did have some toll on her body on occasion. It should be somewhere in the afternoon right now but it was hard to tell. The ongoing darkness resulted in Eälis having to rely on her Star Tear jewels to replenish her actual life energy. Not knowing how much longer this weather would stay she could not just use them either. She had to use them with caution.

Taking flight above the clouds was a possibility as well but it was still hard to judge how her body would react. When those markings appeared on her skin and her hair had become white had actually quite frightened her back then.

It was dry now but that did not last long as cold rain and hail finally started to pour from the heavens with threatning loud thunderclaps and lightning.

Training progressed well over the past weeks camped there just inside the forest. Tatsu would have been content to remain there for several weeks more if the weather didn't turn foul. At first they ignored the cold front as best they could, but the overcast, dark skies put the dragon on edge as he knew that Eälis needed the moonlight to remain strong and healthy.

He should have known better than to delay moving on. It had been a small hope that the winds would shift again and bring better weather. Instead it broke with a massive thunderstorm.

Rain and hail could beat against him all it liked, the lightening did not deter him either. It was his student that caused Tatsu to break their camp and seek sturdier shelter. Eälis had made good progress with her training, and he was willing to risk town if it meant that she would be warm and dry. He wouldn't risk causing her to become sick because of further exposure to the storm.

"We cannot fly in this weather." Tatsu wasn't going to chance getting her struck by lightening. He could probably take such a blow, but he doubted she could.

''I need to agree on that part... above the clouds is most likely not a good idea for me. I do not think I can redirect lightning. Is there not a village nearby?'' Eälis asked.

The amount of rain and hail would soon enough drench her clothes and many supplies she had.

''I do not mind a cave either but even during forraging I have not found any''

"There is a small one, close enough." If he could fly here there, it would take no time at all, but he had waited too long and now Eälis had to suffer the consequences.

Well, at least some of them.

Tatsu focused his magic and projected a shield against the storm, it was not a large barrier, but the rain, hail, and wind were shut out in a small circle around them. He could not maintain it forever, but it protected his pupil for now.

Everything was packed up and divided between the two of them, although Tatsu obviously insisted on bearing the heavier burden over any protests.

Fighting the mud and the storm intermittently - Tatsu had to drop the shield to rest more than once - the journey to the small town took far longer than he would have liked. The pair were sodden by the time they'd made the two hour trek. Thankfully there was a small, quaint inn in the town, which he lead her to and ushered her inside before him.

The innkeeper was a plump, older woman with grey hair and a grandmotherly air about her. She took one look at Eälis before giving a soft gasp and hurrying over. "Oh look at you, poor dear. Soaked to the bone and probably half frozen! What would you be doing out in such a storm?"

A rumble of thunder almost shook the small establishment as if to emphasis the point. Tatsu bowed to her slightly, voice contrite as he addressed her. "It is my fault the young lady and myself were caught out in such poor weather. We would like accommodations, Madam, if that is not too much to ask?"

The woman tsked, eyeing him up for a moment before nodding. "We're a small place, but I've got a room available for you, but you both go sit by the fire and let me fetch you something hot to put in your bellies before you go catching your deaths."

"You are too kind, Madam." Tatsu murmured softly before heading for the table closest to the hearth, which had a very inviting fire blazing in it.

''Thank you.'' Eälis replied calmly but trembling to the innkeeper. She looked around a bit, eyeing the wooden walls, worn rugs on the floor, the tables and chairs. The atmosphere was warm in this place and another loud thunder woke Eälis up from her trail of thoughts. She was drenched and cold.

The weather had been far from kind. The rain made her cloak cold and heavy. The fire was a welcoming gift but wouldn't do much good to her now. She removed the cloakpin and hang the cloak to dry. Her boots were next, placing them not far from the hearth and the Moonelf sat down near the fire. She trembled from the cold and despite that, she still smiled. The flames entracing her slightly before looking at Tatsu. ''No need to blame it all on yourself you know.'' Eälis said calm and warm as always. ''Weather like this is still a part of nature.'' she smiled still and walked to Tatsu barefooted. ''Shouldn't you rid yourself of some drenched clothing too?'' she asked as she sat down beside him.

Before Tatsu could answer though the woman returned and placed two bowls on the table with a piping hot meal. ''It is stew with root vegetables. Normally I'd put some good pork or beef in it but I am all out.''

''Thank you so much.'' Eälis said gratefull. The warm liquid was surely a feast now despite it's simplicity.

Tatsu watched Eälis from the corner of his eye as she removed her cloak and boots. His cool blue eyes were near constantly following her. It had been so since the day they had met. She had saved him, and he had taken her into his care as a student.

The way she trembled bothered him greatly, he wished that he could warm her in an instant, but letting the fire slowly seep into them both was the best that he could really do.

"I should have brought you here sooner." If they had not waited they would never have needed to walk through the storm. He could have flown them close to the village and saved so much trouble for them both. There was a soft sadness to his voice and the way he looked at her held deep guilt. It would be his fault if she grew sick.

Eälis was his responsibility.

Tatsu made no comment about his soaked clothing, but that was only in part to the reappearance of their keeper. "Thank you, Madam. My companion does not eat meat, so this will be perfect."

The woman looked between them and frowned softly as she watched Tatsu begin to eat slowly. She was more looking to Eälis. "This is a small place I have here, and I only have the one room to give out. Hope that's not too much of a problem."

''Not at all.'' Eälis assured. ''We are both already very gratefull for the food and room.'' she started to eat as well and she allowed the stew to warm her body. She hoped that Tatsu would feel less guilty though when they were finished eating. She had been in weather like this before but now, she was not alone. Which was probably the reason why she was so high spirited still.

The woman looked at Eälis a bit longer. ''You are by far one of the most polite guests I ever had.'' she said and finally dared to show a smile herself. ''You both.'' her gaze went to Tatsu next and sighed. ''This weather might hold for a couple of days so considder it well whether you want to resume your travels or wait a few days. I shall prepare the room for you both. In backroom I have a fire going to heat water for a bath. You both look like you could use that.'' the innkeeper headed up the stairs.

The elf finished the stew rather quickly. Walking through the weather had been taxing on her body of sorts and the food was more then welcome. ''Tatsu, as for your opinium of that you should've brought me here sooner... remember I have travelled alone for a while. This weather included. I'll be fine and hopefully you too. We just take this opportunity to rest well and recharge.'' she winked and it seemed her smile could not be wiped off her face either.

Beneath that smile though, was however a slight concern. A few days of bad weather. Meaning the moments that the sun and moon were out she would have to make sure to take those moments. But with Tatsu's teachings, hopefully she wouldn't be so depenant on the crystals as much like she was now.

Tatsu nodded his agreement with Eälis' gratitude for even a single room to shelter them. They had been camping out in the forest without so much as a tent for weeks, including bathing in the cool streams around their training grounds. Sharing a room was better than nothing at all.

The compliment on their manners earned a slight bow of his head and a slight smile, although his expression turned a little more serious at the news of the weather remaining bad for several days. It had already been horribly overcast and poor weather for days, and he knew that Eälis needed the skies to clear so she could absorb her energy from the sun and moon.

He sighed softly at her attempts to reassure him when she had finished with her meal. Tatsu was eating much more slowly, but he did not eat great amounts to begin with. "We will rest until the weather breaks, and there will be no further training until it does. I will not expend your energy when you have no easy means of replenishing it. If you begin to feel weak, take any energy you can from me. I will gladly spare it for you."

''Understood. I will be careful myself too.'' Eälis assured. She was perhaps a little bit disappointed that they needed to put a pause on the training but she knew all to well it was for her own good. Taking another's energy though, it was not an easy thing to do. ''I fortunatly do still have crystals left so if I do not use them unless I have to, I should be ok.''

She was glad that she brought so many of them. The moonelf walked towards one of the windows. The lights provided by the houses in the village were small and barely visible due to the heavy rain, and she needed the lightning to see the contours of them. ''It looks like a sweet small village. Perhaps a good chance to restock on herbs as well, or get myself some cloth so I can make a new bag.'' by the looks of it a pair of new shoes would not be amiss either. Since they were mainly made out of fabric, they did not last long in weather like this.

The innkeeper returned as well. ''I lit some candles in the room and made the beds. The bath should be warm enough as well. Would you like to go in first miss? You shouldn't go to bed still wet from the cold rain. Especially with those cold wet tresses of yours. There are spare clothes as well for you both, since your bags seemed soaked t..'' the woman stopped talking, seeing Eälis'  smile. ''Something wrong dear?''

''Oh no not at all.'' Eälis assured. ''Your kindness reminds me of home.'' Eälis bowed deeply. ''I am really glad to have met you.''

The woman chuckled and shook her head. ''Through that door and warm yourself up already. Can't have you getting sick right?''

Eälis nodded and headed to the other room where she looked around first too. Against the wall was a low stone construct where a fire was lit. Above it was a wooden tub of sorts. She couldn't help but think that it was some kind of wooden cookingpot but it looked welcoming for sure. She saw the clothing resting on a wooden bench with some towels next to them and wondered whose they were before getting the cold wet clothes off her body and hang them somewhere to dry before getting in the bath.
--

The innkeeper took two glasses and a flask containing strong spirits and dat down across Tatsu, pouring herself a glass. ''A sweet young lady you are traveling with. You both have probably come from far correct?'' she asked kindly and gestured to the flask and other glass, which Tatsu could take if he wanted.

Tatsu didn't feel disappointment in putting a hold on training. Eälis had been working very hard and improving at a satisfactory pace. Taking a break, and giving them both time to rest in a comfortable environment like the inn was something of a well-earned reward. If the storm hadn't rolled in they would eventually have ended up in a place like this anyway.

He spared a glance and a smile for the innkeeper as she returned to inform them about the room and the bath. It was good to have someone else chiding his student to take care of herself for a change.

Eälis pushed herself too hard, in his opinion.

Tatsu wasn't expecting the woman to actually sit down with him. Least of all with an offer of alcohol, but he reached for the glass and poured himself a small amount at the invitation.

"Eälis is a very charming young woman." He agreed with her. "We have been camping some hours from the village, but when the storm came there was inadequate shelter for my companion. I worried for her health if we did not find somewhere warm and dry to rest and weather the storm."

''Eälis huh? Quite the unusual name.'' she finished her first glass and poured her second. ''Must be nice being so young. Normally I can not tell with elves but she does not have the firmness in her eyes people usually have who have been around longer. As for the weather. If she warms up and dries herself off properly other then some sore muscles she should be just fine. You too hopefully. The physician of this town is not that far off though would the need arise.'' she smiled as she spoke before looking firm at Tatsu though. ''Do look after yourself and your companion better next time health wise. And with that I really mean both of you. If something happens resulting in you being sick it will be tough on her too.''

"You would find me quite resilient against common ailments, and I believe Eälis to be a capable healer." Tatsu rarely, if ever, became ill. Injuries were the more prevalent issue, and she had saved him from those dragon hunters. If they could even be called that. "I assure you that I will take great care with her safety and health, if it makes you feel better."

He could not stop his eyes from flickering back in the direction that she had disappeared shortly before. Unlike the innkeeper, Tatsu nursed his drink slowly and when he set the empty glass down he did not refill it.

"If it is not too much trouble, I think I would like to put our things in our room while I wait for my turn in the bath." Tatsu murmured politely as he rose from his seat and gathered their things.

''Of course.'' the woman said as she got on her feet as well. She directed Tatsu to the second floor and opened the door for him revealing a small cozy room. Candles were lit, giving a warm orange light. The shadows dancing by their unstable flames. The rain hit against the window and despite the curtain was closed, it did reveal the light of the lightning through the clouds.

A small table with two stools, a cabinet and small wardrope were at one side of the room and there were two beds against one another with a small nightstand on each side. ''I hope it suits you and your lady. If not well there is not much else I can offer unless you like to lay in the hay.''

Tatsu didn't bother correcting the way the innkeeper referred to Eälis. She was his student, not his lady, but it didn't seem an important detail for the moment.

"I have no objections to sleeping in hay if that is the only hospitality that my host had to give I would still be grateful to them. This will be more than comfortable for us, thank you." It was a fine room. The beds could easily be pushed apart if necessary, but he was not going to complain to have a soft place to rest his head tonight.

He placed their belongings in a pile on the other side of the room. Eälis could go through them when she got out of the bath, if she liked. There was nothing Tatsu needed for now save his own turn to wash then probably bed.

Eälis in the meantime had washed herself with some soap and had was now doing nothing more other then sitting in the water, thinking. The past few days there had been little to no moon or sunlight. At the least she still had some charged crystals but she hoped, would she draw energy from Tatsu, that it was a proper substitute. She found herself a little scared for the possibility that it wasn't, even though he seemed to draw energy from the moon as well when they had flown. Would that be an option maybe? If the clouds were at ease that he could bring her above them?

She shook her head and splashed her face with water before going out. Truth be told, she had already noticed the fysical fatigue the lack of the proper light had caused her. Feeling more tired, which she compensated and hid by being more cheerful. Not that she wasn't happy seeing another face of course but she did have to be more careful then usual. For all she knew this weather would hold for longer then just a couple more days.

After drying off she took the clothing the innkeeper had left her to get dressed. It was wide, comfortable cotten and linnen and not exactly her size but Eälis wasn't picky. When she left the bathing area she saw the woman bwhind the bar, putting away the flask of alcohol. But Tatsu wasn't here. ''Second floor, last door on the left my dear. Your partner is already upstairs. Did you enjoy the bath?'' she said with a smile.

''Partner? We're not...'' she paused a moment and smiled. ''Yes the bath was good. The cold has left my bones and I feel much better. Thank you.'' she said and headed up the stairs to the shared room. She knocked before entering the room.

Tatsu had simply settled onto one of the stools after the innkeeper had left, allowing his mind to wander, almost mesmerized by the dancing firelight the candles cast on the walls. The flicker of the brighter light from lightning only added to the soothing patterns.

He was weary and worried. When was he not?

The knock drew his attention, eyes turning to the door as Eälis came in. Her borrowed clothing was ill-fitting, but it was dry and hopefully comfortable. They had been extraordinarily fortunate to find such a kindly host for them.

"How do you feel?" He asked softly. The bath had probably helped tremendously. A real, hot bath was always something to improve one's mood. It wasn't the bath he was worried about.

Eälis was frail to him, and he knew she tried to hide her troubles from him.

''I am okay for now.'' Eälis replied. ''I do miss the moon and sunlight a bit but I can last for a couple more days. If things get to bad for me and receiving your energy does not work, I still have some startear crystals left to provide me with the energy I need.'' She sat down on the edge of the bed. It felt soft after having slept on rock, moss and soil for so long.

''The bath did me good though. I might go for a stroll tomorrow if there are some gaps in the clouds. I apolagise for this inconvenience though.''

"We will seek out better weather if the storm does not break in a few days." Tatsu would not wait too long this time. It could not be storming everywhere. Perhaps he would take her to Essyrn. There were rarely clouds to inhibit the light in that desert oasis. His only worry being the culture.

"Your health and safety are not an inconvenience, Eälis." He chided her gently.

Sighing softly Tatsu rose from his stool and studied her where she sat on the bed, remembering the way the innkeeper had called her his lady. A strange assumption, in his mind. "Shall I push the beds apart for you before I go bathe? If you sleep before I return I would not wish to wake you unintentionally."

''I do not mind them next to one another, but sure.'' Eälis repleid and got on her feet. She wished she could say she wouldn't fall asleep before he returned but it was something she could not promise. Her body felt tired and needed all the rest she could get. The bed though was probably to heavy for her to even lift so she moved the nightstand instead.

"Neither do I, but for the sake of propriety, it is for the best." Tatsu did not care if the beds were together. They had camped out in the open together and bathed in each other's presence. Having beds that were pushed together did not seem like an issue.

"The innkeeper referred to you as my lady." He admitted as he easily pulled one bed along the floor, putting just a foot of space between the mattresses. Just enough that they were not appearing to share a double bed, really. "I fear having the beds together would only further encourage the wrong impression."

Satisfied with the beds, Tatsu turned to her with a soft frown. "Rest. I will try not to wake you when I return."

Eälis chuckled. '' Your lady?'' she paused, giving Tatsu a warm smile. '' I suppose I can not blame her for thinking such. For now though I'd say, enjoy your bath. The water was good. These spare clothes are a bit wide for my but since I lack any better at the moment it is fine. There is a set for you too and space to hang your own clithes to dry.'' she sat down on the edge of the bed again.  ''Would I fall asleep, see you tomorrow. ''

"It is presumptuous." Tatsu simply shrugged. Just because a man and woman traveled alone together did not mean that they were more than companions. It hardly mattered either way. People could think what they would. They usually did whether you wished them to or not.

"A most gracious host we have found. Sleep well, Eälis." He murmured softly before turning to leave. It felt good to strip out of his soggy clothes, although he could have used magic to dry them. Overusing magic was not only lazy, but draining, and he'd already exhausted himself shielding them as much as he could during the trip through the storm.

Tatsu did not linger overlong in the hot water. It felt good, but he wished far more to go back upstairs and rest than to soak in the tub. He cleaned himself then got out. The clothes left for him did not fit well, but they were serviceable and dry.

As promised, he entered the room quietly so not to disturb her should she already be sleeping peacefully.

Eälis indeed had not managed to remain awake. Despite not having been asleep long she was compleyely curled up like a cat.  Her long hair like a pool of black silk. The candle on her night stand was blown iut as well, the smell lingering in the room.

She did seem peaceful enough, despite looking paler then usual. Her hair shone less as well. Even waking up for her seemed different than when the sun still shone as she woke up after being restless for an hour. The storm however had passed. It was cloudy and the feel in the air was still sonewhat static. But the clouds were thinner and lighter and unlike the few days before it ws possibke to see the blurred sun behind the blanket of clouds.

Being sure to remain quiet, Tatsu carefully draped another blanket over the sleeping elf to make sure she would remain nice and warm through the night. That done he stretched out on his stomach in his own bed and closed his eyes. Sleep was almost immediate and very peaceful.

It was not a night for his mind wandering meditations.

Eälis would wake to find that for once, Tatsu remained fast asleep. An oddity since his typical nightly routine meant that once she opened her eyes so did he. Instead his eyes remained closed and his breathing the deep, even breaths of heavy sleep.

'Maybe he exhausted himself too' Eälis thought to herself and got out of bed, almost losing balance when doing so. To prevent herself from falling, she knelt down for a moment before getting up again and walked quietly to the window, opening the curtain slightly. There was not mych choice, she knew.

After walking to her bag she got one crystal out and held it in the palm of her hand, clising her fingers around it. When opening them again, the crystal gad turned dull. '' Seven left." she whispered as a mental note. When standing up again she noticed her body felt a bit better.

Her gaze went to Tatsu and couldnt help but smile. He deserved his test too. After thinking for a moment she got the wet things from ger bag and hang them over a stool to dry before heading out of the room. Hoping to retrieve her own clothes.

Downstairs there were a few patrons eating their breakfast. ''Mary-Ann, scrambled eggs and toast please " one of them called. It seemed like a happy bunch.

A minute or so later, the innkeeper brought some plates of food around and noticed the moonelf at the bottem of the stairs. "Ahh Eälis dear. Good morning." she greeted.

It resulted in various patrons to look in Eälis ' direction followed by surprised gazes.

"Oi Mary-Ann. Did not know you were hiding such a beauty in your attic." one called and gestured Eälis to sit down but the elf refused.

"Your cloak is still soaked my dear but the clothes from you and your companion are as good as dry. I hope you slept well. "

"I did thank you." Eälis replied.

"Good. Give me a moment child, I will get them for you."

While he was normally quite aware of her movements, Tatsu remained sleeping as she left the room, obviously feeling mostly safe and secure in this tiny little village with the very kindly innkeeper. There did not seem to be any danger in truly resting and he took advantage of it.

Tatsu did not go into a full sleep very often. Every few weeks, perhaps. Less if he was not taxing himself with extensive magic as he had been. Barring disruption, he would likely sleep much of the morning away.

Mary-Ann, after serving a few more patrons, gave Eälis a bundle of clothing, with a pair of shoes above which Eälis regocnised as her own. ''There you go. What can I make for you and your man.''

Eälis took the clothing and smiled with a hint of a blush. ''Tatsu and I are not a couple. We travel together. He is my friend and teacher.'' she replied.

The innkeeper laughed. ''Oh my my bad.'' she gave Eälis a smile. ''The question remains though. I understood last night you eat no meat.''

''Correct.'' the moonelf replied and pondered. ''Tatsu tends not to eat much but I think a small basket of bread with butter and honey will be just fine if you have it.

Mary-Ann nodded. ''Very well. I will get to that then.''

Eälis thanked the woman before going upstairs ignoring the disappointed calls of a few patrons.
Despite she was happy Mary-Ann had given a set of clothes to use for the time being, the moonelf was happy that her own clothes were as good as dry. As quietly as she had left, Eälis entered the room again and smiled at Tatsu still sleeping. Placing his clothes on the table she started to undress and put her own clothes back on. Her shoes last. Despite the clouds, maybe there was a bit of light she could pick up. She took her two bracelets out of her bag, her necklace and a decorative comb. All crystals in them were already empty so the worst that could happen. She considered briefly to take one of her daggers from her bag but decided not to. She did put a belt around her waist and bound her coinpouch on it.

It was not often she saw Tatsu slepeing like this hence she did not wake him up. Instead, she left a note on the table saying that would he not find her in the inn, she would be walking around outside a bit, not intenting to take long.

Downstairs, she ate some bread Mary-Ann provided and told her Tatsu was still sleeping and he probably needed a bit longer which the Innkeeper found no problem at all. The patrons by then had already left to attend their local work in this village with the exception of three who probably rented a room here as well.

Outside it was a bit cold but the moonelf did not mind. It still smelled like refreshing rain and sure the threats of an upcoming downpour was still there but that did not stop her from walking around. She did have a goal though; buying fabric for replacement clothes or at least material to make new shoes.