@Moonie The day was winding down, dusk fading into true evening as Tara set herself up at the corner of a small shop, almost smack in the middle of the town.
Cerenis may have been the port capital of Serendipity, but there were plenty of other coastal towns just as lovely and lively, if not as large. This little place- Bayhaven- was one of her favorites, and she stopped here often on her travels to rest and resupply. A few of the locals knew her, and she noticed a woman and man walking arm and arm, the young lady halting her companion and giving Tara a smile as she knew what was in store.
Tara smiled back and sat herself down on an overturned bucket, propping her little lyre on her lap and plucking out a few scales to warm up. She played a note, hummed, played again, then let her eyes drift half closed and started to sing, fingers dancing over the strings.
It wasn't some epic ballad or a history, just a silly ditty often heard on festival days or at weddings and christenings. Still, her voice lent it a kind of credence that seemed to make it...
more than it was, dipping and dancing through the air around her.
Even in human guise it was impossible for Tatsu to not stand out. The dragon possessed an ethereal beauty and grace that would rival any elf. Standing six and a half feet tall also caused him to tower over all around him, and it wasn't only his physical presence that radiated power. Even the mundane could sense the magical aura surrounding him - even if they didn't know what exactly it was they felt in his presence.
The weather was lovely on the coasts; balmy days basking on the beaches and gentle night breezes that teased softly at his silver-white hair as he strolled leisurely down the cobblestone streets. It was so very easy to absorb the energies around him, such a quite and peaceful little town radiated positive energy that tickled his skin in the most pleasant of ways.
A subtle shift in the flow of energy beckoned him, drawing him towards the soft melody of a lyre and a vibrant voice letting out a silly little song. The music alone would have been enough to seize his attention, but there was more to it than just the notes and the lyrics. Magic hummed and vibrated through the air, pulsing through him in delightful little waves of brilliant light. It wasn't every day that he encountered such a siren as the unassuming young lady playing on a shop corner.
Tatsu quickly and easily found himself entranced. Sure, the song was just a silly little thing, but unlike the others that had paused to listen, he did not only hear the sounds - he felt them.
Tara glanced around at the growing crowd as she played and her eyes lit on the rather imposing figure who seemed to have just materialized, though she wasn't sure how she'd missed him before.
Oh well. If he left a little coin in the small pouch she'd placed at her feet she'd be grateful, but otherwise he was just another idle Serenian curiosity.
She let the ditty float to an end and waited a moment, then started up with a slower, sadder melody, a requiem for love lost.
Tatsu did not know the second song, but it took only moments for it to tear at him. The sad melody of lost love caused a painful thrum inside his chest. As it continued he might have wept - if there had been tears still left in him to shed for his beloved mate.
That well had run dry millennia ago.
Some of the people around him were placing a few coins in a pouch for the singer, but the dragon was far too captivated to even move until the performance ended. It was like rousing himself from a dream just to pull his mind out of the small levels of musical magic vibrating and humming around the young bard.
Tatsu didn't even know how long he had been standing there, completely enthralled.
The ballad was a long one, and by the time she was done Tara desperately needed a drink. She smiled gratefully for the small spattering of applause when she stopped and bent to retrieve her water flask, taking a log gulp.
The magic of her voice seemed to hang in the air around her for a few moments even after she'd gone silent.
Tatsu managed to applaud quietly with the rest before he slowly approached the bard. People in the crowd almost instinctively moved out of his way, although he was not at all forceful or insistent as he made his way to the front.
Part of it was probably his appearance, and not only because of his tall stature. Tatsu was dressed as finely as any lord in crimson, black, white, and silver. His pale eyes regarded Tara coolly for a moment, as if assessing a puzzle he was trying to solve.
Finally he reached into his coat and dropped a few silvers into her pouch. "Thank you, for the most beautiful music I have heard in a long time."
Silver. Now that caught her attention. She could usually only hope for a couple coppers at best, a handful of she was lucky.
Her eyes snapped up and she searched his face with interest. "You're welcome," she murmured after a moment, realizing he wasn't being coy but genuinely thanking her. "And thank you in turn."
She was quiet a moment longer, then offered with a small smile, "Do you have a request, milord? I'd be happy to entertain." It was a nice surprise to come across someone who seemed to do earnestly appreciate music.
The faintest of smiles crossed Tatsu's lips as she thanked him, but he shook his head when she asked if he had a request. "It is not necessary for you to address me so. I am simply Tatsu Drake, and my only request would be to know the name of such a Nightingale as yourself."
He punctuated that request with a polite and respectful bow.
She laughed lightly, surprised but rather charmed by his manner. It was almost...quaint. Which was not a word she would have before applied to such a silver-haired giant.
"Tara." She extended a hand politely. "Name's Tara. It's a pleasure, Mister Drake."
Tatsu probably wouldn't have described his mannerisms as quaint; only respectful. She would find her extended hand gently taken as he bowed again and pressed a soft, brief kiss to the back of it. As soon as he had placed the kiss he released her fingers.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Tara." He straightened back to his full height and gestured around at the gathered people. "Please, I would hate to further interrupt your performance so selfishly."
Tara blinked at him, rather bemused by the gentile gesture. Then she smiled and nodded. "Well, I only hope to please," she murmured with a soft, chiming laugh.
She sat back and gently placed the lyre on the ground beside her, taking up her flute instead. She moved on to an instrumental piece, piping away cheerily, the the occasional slides and trills that really gave the music life.
Normally she had a firm grasp on her magic, but she was relaxed, and still a little distracted by Tatsu's presence. Quite without her intent, a few threads of magic flickered away from her, calling up a soft breeze the whispered around her in a gentle swirl, picking at the ends of her hair and blowing about the scent of the sea.
Slipping back into the crowd, Tatsu found a comfortable place to lean, allowing his eyes to fall closed as he let his mind drift back into the music as the sweet notes began rising from the flute.
It didn't take long for those tendrils of magic to begin swirling around Tara again, but now it wasn't only the music that was effected. The breeze that began gently circling the musician wasn't strictly natural, and he tilted his head back slightly as it flowed through his hair. Of course it was touching everyone that was close enough, but Tatsu was lost to the world. His consciousness danced along the magic veins, oblivious to all else.
Nothing could have moved him for as long as Tara played her enchanting music.
Perhaps spurred on by her new and evidently ardent fan, Tara played a longer session than was usual for her, the stars becoming visible as she finally packed up her instruments and gathered the pouch she'd laid at her feet.
Not bad. The silvers from Tatsu glinted conspicuously, but other people had thrown in quite a handful of coppers, all told. She smiled and tied the purse closed, slipping it into a pouch on her belt.
During the extended performance the audience had evolved, some leaving, others arriving to pause and enjoy the musician's work for a time before moving on. Tatsu was probably one of the very few that remained from beginning to end.
Once Tara began packing up, most of the crowd dispersed. Except for Tatsu, of course. For a few moments he simply watched her, trying to decide what to do.
Logically he should have just moved on. The young mage and musician was only performing on the streets for strangers to enjoy her art and to make a little coin. He doubted she wished to be further bothered beyond a compliment or two for her music. It was impossible to help himself, though.
Tatsu approached her as the last of the crowd dispersed to go about their evenings. It was beginning to become late and most were probably eager to return to their homes or inns to rest. "Forgive me for being a nuisance, but might I ask if you have already made lodging arrangements? I am staying at the Moonlight Villa, a very reputable establishment with a most excellent view of the coast. It would be my pleasure to have you join me for a glass of wine - they offer divine and diverse vintages."
She started a bit, not expecting for the man to still be there, let alone to address her a second time. Her eyes flicked up and she looked at him warily for a moment.
But...he seemed sincere. She didn't really get that sense of predator from him that she'd come to expect from men asking her back to their lodgings.
Huh.
She nodded slowly. "That...sounds nice. I don't have a place to stay yet, thank you for the invitation." Where was the harm? If he pulled something she knew she could defend herself. And if he didn't, she at least had the potential for good drink and some conversation.
Back when he had first infiltrated human society Tatsu wouldn't have understood the wariness or distrust that flickered within Tara's expression. Females of his kind never had any reason to fear males, but through the years he'd learned that humans worked much differently. Even in Serendipity where men and women were considered equals, females still had reason to fear men. Especially strange men they didn't know.
"It is truly my pleasure, Miss Tara. I do not always have the opportunity to enjoy such talented company. It was not an exaggeration when I said your music was the most beautiful I had heard in some time." He offered her his arm, like a proper gentleman. "Shall we?"
Tara couldn't help giggling a bit as she took the offered arm. "Well thank you, Mister Drake. Really, I'm glad you liked it so much."
Smiling a little lopsidedly, she tilted her head at him and questioned in an almost teasing tone, "You sure you're not some sort of lord? You certainly act like one, y'know."
"I am quite certain I am not of noble birth. Must one be a lord to have good manners? I am afraid the truth is far more mundane and uninteresting. My family raised me to speak and act honorably, at all times. It is a virtue I have always and will always carry with me." His people had what might be considered fairly rigid codes of behavior. Tatsu may be far removed from his own kind, but he thought it would have been an insult to their memory not to maintain his morals.
With her arm in his, he strolled along the street towards their destination, which was arguably the most luxurious business of its type in the area. Wealthy merchants tended to be the predominant patrons - men and women looking to escape larger, busier cities for a short time.
"How long have you been a travelling entertainer? If I may ask - of course I understand if you are reluctant to discuss personal matters with a stranger. I just find myself curious about you. Such talent for a young woman. I was especially impressed by the magic infused with your art." It was subtle magic, but potent given his easy surrender to it!
Apparently he'd taken her teasing literally, which was actually rather charming. She swallowed a chuckle and nodded along as he spoke. It was a nice way of looking at things, if not very practical in her opinion.
She started slightly when he mentioned her magic, a little surprised. "You could tell?" she asked- perhaps a little redundantly. "Are you a mage then?" She'd never met anyone else who could "feel" her magic unless they had a knack for it themselves.
"Oh, and I've been doing this a while. Since I was about sixteen," she answered his question almost as an afterthought.
"Oh yes, I could tell. Your magic is subtle and sublime." Tatsu didn't really confirm that he was a mage, because he really didn't consider himself one. Humans were mages. He simply was. "I must admit that you had me quite captivated. That does not happen very often. It made me curious to learn more about you."
He looked out over the ocean, clearly visible from the street they walked along. The Moonlit Villa was also sitting proudly overlooking the coast.
Tara found herself blushing a bit, which was something that didn't happen often. She smiled and murmured her thanks, adding quietly, "I can't say I meet many people who take such an interest in a bard on a street corner."
As she glanced up and really took note of the building they were approaching, her eyes widened. "Holy-" She cleared her throat and looked at him sidelong. "Ah, nice place."
Not a lord her ass. Who else could afford to stay in a place like that?
"Few people have the same appreciation for music that I do." It wasn't just the music that really got his attention. Tatsu listened to music often, for him it was one of the calmest activities. Mixing the music with the magical energy was what had really caught him.
He chuckled softly at her reaction to truly looking at the Moonlit Villa. "It is a very nice place. The atmosphere is relaxing, unhurried. A great place for those needing a break from busier lives."
"I...see." She trilled a breath through her lips and looked up at him with a lopsided smile. "Is that what brings you to town then? Taking a break from a busy life?"
"That would depend on your definition of busy, I suppose. I am rarely in a hurry about anything, but much of the world seems to be in a great rush at all times." Tatsu led her up the path towards the grand entrance, there was a doorman to open the heavy double doors for them with a bow and flourish. "That is why I like places like this. Slows things down a little more to my own pace."
The foyer was dotted with cozy sitting areas for guests to wait for their baggage to be loaded or unloaded from carriage to room and back. There was a large desk with a stately dressed gentleman sitting behind it to serve as a receptionist and general overseer of the other staff.
"Lionel, have a hundred year bottle of the dry red I sampled last night and two glasses brought out to the Oceanic balcony, please." Tatsu barely waited for affirmation of his request before he continued guiding Tara through the building and then out onto a sweeping veranda overlooking the ocean. The sea breeze was pleasant, soft sounds of the waves on the beach below drifting up to them as he gestured to the panoramic view. "Gorgeous, is it not?"
Tara had to exercise a grey amount of control to keep her jaw from hitting the floor as she was led into the stately building. She suddenly found herself fidgeting with her skirt, smoothing her bodice a bit in an attempt to feel less...grubby.
At least she was wearing shoes. She'd honestly considered going barefoot that morning.
As she was ushered out onto the veranda, she couldn't stop the quiet gasp that slipped past her lips. "Oh my gods," she murmured, eyes roaming over the view. "It- it really is."
At this hour there was mostly just the staff around to even see them. Most of the patrons would have retired to their own rooms by now. Some alone, and some with company they'd picked up in town. Nobody looked twice at Tara. She was a beautiful young woman in the company of an obviously wealthy man. Not exactly an uncommon sight at the Moonlit Villa.
Either way they had the veranda to themselves as Tatsu made his way over to a pair of comfortable chairs facing out to appreciate the view with a small table to rest drinks upon between them. "Please, have a seat. This is the best spot to view the moonlight on the water."
It was also a wonderful spot to gaze up at the stars on a clear night. There were only a few wispy clouds, but it only served to give the large near-full moon an even more majestic bearing.
Tatsu took a seat and relaxed with a contented expression. A waiter appeared within moments with a tray which he sat on the table between them. The bottle was tilted for inspection, and Tatsu gave a nod of approval, prompting the server to open it and fill the two glasses half-full before he bowed and withdrew, leaving the opened bottle on the table between them.
She took her seat almost hesitantly, eyes constantly flicking out to watch the glimmer of moonlight on the water. Every once in a while the ocean would still, and the reflection of the sky made it seem as though one could swim in the stars themselves.
Tara smiled a bit, then started when the servant appeared to fill their glasses. She eyed the wine, then Tatsu. She really didn't want to offend him, but her cautious nature wouldn't be denied. Trying to be subtle about it, she lifted the glass and sniffed.
No discernible scent of drugs. Which was probably logical, they'd both been served from the same bottle, but you never knew. She took a cautious sip.
Tatsu wasn't easily offended. His pale eyes watched her, the faintest trace of a smile crossing his lips as he picked up his own glass, swirling the wine a little and sniffing it himself. It had a nice aroma. He brought it to his lips and sipped it himself, allowing it to linger on his tongue before bothering to swallow. It had a rich, but subtle flavor to it.
"Excellent." He sighed happily. "There are much bolder wines, but I have found subtle to be much more enjoyable to the palette. Why indulge if it is not something to drink slowly and savor?"
Tara chuckled and took another sip. It was certainly good wine. "Honestly, I wouldn't know," she said with a small smile. "I don't get the chance to drink stuff this fine often, so I'll take your word for it."
She glanced out over the ocean again, trying to do as he said and savor the wine. "Well, thank you for this." She toasted him and gave a sort of sheepish smile. "I feel like I owe you plenty more than a few songs."
"Not having frequent opportunity only suggests savoring it is even more important." Tatsu wished he had savored things a lot more back when he was so young and foolish as to think himself invulnerable. Back then the world had been seen through an entirely different perspective. He was practically a different person now.
His attention had shifted to look out over the water, not focused so much on his companion as he almost fell into contemplative remorse. Instead he tilted his head and looked at Tara with a slight frown. "Owe me? You do not owe any man anything, Miss Tara. Certainly not me."
She frowned a bit. That wasn't the way the world usually worked for her. "Well- I imagine this is expensive. And you already were...very generous when I was playing earlier."
She swirled the wine in her glass absently before she took another sip. "I suppose I'm just not very comfortable with the idea of not paying you back. You hardly know me, after all."
"Expense is irrelevant in this instance. You did not ask that I give you silver or wine. It was my choice to give these things to you freely, because you brought me some measure of pleasure with your music. Moments of true happiness are priceless to me." His voice was soft, giving off the faint echoes of deep sadness hidden beneath a layer of feigned indifference.
Tatsu took another slow sip from his glass before turning to her with a faint smile. "And I could argue that I know you better than many. Do not forget that I spent quite some time this evening completely engrossed with your music and your magic."
"Huh. That's certainly one way of looking at it," Tara murmured as she nursed her drink. She watched him curiously, sure that there was something more in his voice, some emotion she couldn't quite place.
"So we are in agreement that you are not indebted to me in any way?" Tatsu asked, still holding that faint smile. He couldn't really muster a full smile. Tara's music had been beautiful, but even it couldn't lift the veil of despair from him completely.
He was a creature haunted too heavily by the past. It was a burdensome weight upon his soul, but he bore it without complaint. If he hadn't been too weak to save his people then he would not have to suffer so. As far as he was concerned, he deserved the melancholy. His immense well of patience and forgiveness for humanity had never applied to himself.
"I...suppose so," she relented after a moment. Summoning up a small smile, she added, "I would still like to repay your kindness, however, if you would let me. Are you sure there's nothing I could do for you?"
"I am a simple man of few wants. Fine wine, find food, and fine company are all I could truly ask. The first two are easy to acquire with coin, and the third is the most precious and the most difficult to come by - and impossible to simply buy." You could buy time from people, he was sure several men were up in their rooms buying companionship from women who would not otherwise give them the time of day.
It was not something he understood or would ever engage in.
"I know this may be hard for you to believe, but all I want from you is what you are already giving me - your company - however briefly. It would be impractical for me to ask for you to sing and play your lyre for my amusement alone." Tatsu shrugged his shoulders and finished his glass of wine, setting it aside. "Besides, the hour grows later by the moment and I am sure you would prefer to rest than to humor an eccentric stranger."
Tara chuckled quietly and toasted him. "Well, then I thank you for that. And I hope you continue to enjoy my company, because this is probably the nicest evening I've spent in...a long time."
It felt like she'd been hunting down the people who'd taken her family from her for as long as she could remember, never able to truly relax and just...be. It was definitely a nice change, and she was grateful for it.
"Good company is always a welcome pleasure. I am glad that I could make your night more enjoyable in some small way." Tatsu bowed his head slightly, then gestured at the bottle of wine. "Feel free to help yourself to as much as you like. It would be in poor taste to waste so fine a vintage."
It was an expensive bottle, but he hardly cared about the cost.
"Are you hungry? They have excellent staff in the kitchen. I know the hour is late, but I am sure they would be happy to serve you." Given the generous volume of tips Tatsu handed out whenever he came they were always eager to indulge his strange requests at odd hours.
"Oh- are you sure?" She felt a little guilty to take him up on that offer, but she was hungry. "I mean... I don't want to impose more than I already have," she murmured, biting at her bottom lip unconsciously.
"If it were too much trouble I would not have offered." Tatsu rose from his chair and corked the wine. A servant appeared almost immediately, and he handed the bottle to him. "Please see that this makes its way to my companion's room."
The man bowed politely and disappeared again just as quickly. Tatsu turned back to Tara and offered her his hand. "Come, let us see what other little delights we can find from the villa's bounty."
Tara smiled and took his hand, a little hesitantly, but she still took it. "I have a hard time imagining anything more beautiful than this," she laughed quietly, waving a hand to indicate the view of the ocean.
Eyes glinting, she added, "But I would be more than happy for you to prove me wrong."
"I would be hard pressed to present you something more beautiful to the eyes than this view, but allow me to find something as beautiful as the wine for your taste buds." Tatsu said with a soft chuckle as he took her hand. "I told you, they have very talented staff in the kitchens."
He lead the way from the veranda to the dining hall, which had many tables set up for guests. Although all but one table for two was bare. Even as they entered a server was lighting candles for their late night guests, having been warned of their impending arrival by the server that had taken the wine for them.
A white table cloth, folded napkins, and menus were neatly in place and Tatsu pulled out one of the two chairs for Tara. "You may order anything you like."
"Gods above and below."
Tara blinked at the pretty little set up, somehow still surprised by the finery around her. "Um, thank you," she murmured as she took a seat, blushing a little bit despite herself. She really wasn't used to being treated so politely.
"Um...wow, everything looks amazing," she chuckled. "Ah, why don't you just pick something? I'm not even sure what half of this stuff is," she admitted with a lopsided smile.
Tatsu couldn't help but be polite. It was practically ingrained in his blood to treat females with respect and care. That was just how his kind worked. "You are most welcome, Miss Tara." He smiled down at her as he gently pushed in her chair before walking around the table to take the seat across from her.
The table was large enough to give just a bit of leg room while still keeping the two occupants close enough for intimate conversation.
"If it pleases you." He nodded to the server who approached. "Bring us the seafood sampler and my favorite white wine." As soon as the man disappeared with their order he turned back to Tara with an easy smile. "While we wait, would you perhaps indulge me in telling me why you decided to become a street performer? I am most curious how you discovered your talent for music."
Tara opened her mouth, perfectly prepared to tell him one of her tall tales about how exactly she had become a bard- then she hesitated.
The man had been nothing but kind to her, and he seemed genuinely interested. Maybe she should give him a real answer.
"I've been sort of a roamer all my life," she answered after a moment. "A group of people- I guess you'd call 'em gypsies- found me when I was a sprout. We did all sorts of stuff for coin, mostly performing." She blushed a bit, then admitted, "Some of it...wasn't strictly legal, but it was mostly performing. I don't even remember when they decided I'd work best as a musician, but eventually they started teaching me to play and sing."
She shrugged and glanced away. "Now that I'm on my own, well...it's really all I know. Old habits, I guess."
"How lucky for you that they found you and took you in. It sounds as if they treated you well, for the most part." Tatsu didn't bother to ask about what caused her to blush and mention that some of what they did wasn't 'strictly' legal. He only hoped it was not something too terrible. A feeling of empathy welled in him when she spoke of being on her own.
"I have an adopted daughter. Her parents were butchered by criminals. Thankfully I was able to save her. She is a woman grown now and runs my business in Arca quite efficiently." There was a tone of great pride and affection when speaking of her. Nellie was one of the few lights in his life.
"Really?" She blinked at him, surprised. "Er- I mean no offense, but I wouldn't have thought- you don't really look old enough to have a daughter, adopted or otherwise," she said with a slightly awkward little laugh.
Dropping her eyes for a moment, she murmured, "Well, anyway. She's lucky you found her." Most children in such a position weren't so fortunate, it was nice to hear of one that had been saved.
Tatsu laughed softly at the comment. Of course it was something he heard often enough. He knew he looked young - far younger than he truly was. "No offense taken. Nellie informs me that I look very good for my age. I hope knowing that I am older than you expected is not...off putting."
While he did his best to always be a perfect gentleman, well, sometimes it had been suggested that perhaps he was a creepy or perverted old man, despite the fact that he never suggested anything with anyone that wasn't strictly platonic companionship. All he wanted was company. For a long time his daughter had provided the only emotional connection he could have ever needed, but now that she was grown she lived her life far more independently and he did not resent her for it.
It just meant that his travels had become lonely.
"Oh- no, not at all, it just surprised me a bit," she assured him quickly, flashing a smile. "And you certainly do at that. Look good for your age, I mean." She chuckled and began absently twining a lock of hair around her finger, a nervous habit.
"So... If your daughter is running your business, does that mean you are retired? Traveling?" He certainly didn't seem old enough for that, but she supposed she'd seen stranger things.
"I do not think I will ever retire, Miss Tara. Travel has always been a large part of my business." Tatsu paused as the server returned to pour them the requested white wine. "My shop deals in magical artifacts and reliquaries. I have a gift for sensing magic and the nature of that magic. It was why you were able to so captivate me."
He stopped once more so that he could sip his wine thoughtfully. "It used to be that Nellie went everywhere I did, but as she became a woman she wished to settle in one place. I bought the shop in Arca for her more than myself. Now I travel alone to collect new magical curiosities to display for our customers."
"Ah, I see." She smiled and murmured her thanks to the server and tried a sip of the wine herself. It really was delicious. "Your Nellie must be a special young woman- not many children grow up with the luck to see so much of the world."
She tapped her fingers idly against the table, then mused aloud, "Magical curiosities- what sorts of things fall into that category, exactly?"
"Yes, a very special young lady." Beautiful and intelligent, any father would have been proud to call Nellie their daughter. Tatsu was grateful for having her. Raising his own child, personally and with as much care as he had his adopted daughter, would have been impossible among his own kind. It was one of the few blessings he cherished after the loss of everything else.
"A great many things. I have a veritable library of ancient tomes full of magical spells and recipes; many in languages few alive can still read and even fewer can speak. We have entire displays of enchanted jewelry - there is a beautiful sapphire ring that glows faintly whenever someone speaks a lie to the wearer, a necklace that can unlock any door, among countless others." Tatsu waved a hand dismissively. "When next you visit Arca, look for The Cabinet of Curiosities in the merchant district. You would be most welcome to browse at your leisure."
"That sounds fascinating." She smiled and sipped a bit more at the wine. "I'll make sure to keep an eye out the next time I'm in the city, thank you."
Though she really wasn't sure when that would be. She usually didn't have much cause to go to Arca, and when she did she often found the city overwhelming. "So how long have you done this? Travel to collect your magical curiosities, I mean. If I can ask," she added hastily, not wanting to overstep her bounds.
"Tell Nellie that I sent you and she will welcome you with open arms for tea and gossip, I have no doubt of that. She is a darling child." Tatsu wished that she still traveled with him, but he didn't want to stifle her or pressure her into the lifestyle he preferred. Like any father he worried about her and wasn't looking forward to the inevitable - dealing with a young suitor.
Although he imagined grandchildren would be wonderful.
He frowned thoughtfully into his wine when she asked how long he had been doing what he did. The full truth wasn't exactly the best option, but he hated lying. "A...very long time. I have been to every country multiple times. Serendipity is where I consider home, but I do so enjoy lazy days lounging in the Essyrn sun. A generous Trade Prince accommodates me unfailingly when I journey that far south."
Tara's eyes widened briefly. "Wow. I've never even been south of the Serha Plains," she admitted with a laugh.
Her eyes softened a bit at the way he talked about his daughter. It was quite sweet, and made her heart ache slightly for her own family.
"It is a whole different world down there. The desert seems endless, but then you reach the jewel that is the city of Essyrn. If it were not for the culture I could love it as much as Serendipity. As it is, I abhor that women are treated as second-class citizens." Tatsu sighed softly, but perked up almost immediately as their server came bearing a steaming tray.
The platter held an assortment of what the ocean could provide, fried crab cakes, lobster tail with garlic butter sauce drizzled over it, grilled shrimp, steamed oysters, and a small bowl of hot rolls. It was placed before them and then the server disappeared again to give them peace and privacy during their meal. "Ah, this has a nice selection. I am sure you will like something it has to offer."
Tara crinkled her nose a bit. "Yeah. One of the women who raised me was Essyrni, a dancer. She hated the place, swore up and down she'd never go back." She shrugged. "If it weren't for that, I might be tempted to explore for myself. I know it's supposed to be gorgeous."
Her eyes went very round as the food was placed in front of them and she had to almost hold her jaw shut. It smelled amazing, but more than that she was near certain even the plate would cost more than she could make in a couple of months.
"This looks divine," she said with utter sincerity. Almost hesitantly, she cut a bite of crab and popped it into her mouth. Her eyes went even wider. "Holy shi- ahem. Wow. This is...really good."
"It is far better for women who wish to travel there to go in the company of a male escort. Much as I dislike the thought of a woman needing such protection anywhere, it is simply safer." Tatsu had known an Essyrni woman - branded an adulterous after being raped by her husband's friend. He had helped her and her very young son escape and begin a new life here in Serendipity.
The expression that came over his guest caused Tatsu to smile, a little bemused. Sometimes he forgot just how luxurious his lifestyle was in comparison to many he met.
His smile only deepened at her reaction to actually tasting the food. "I am so glad you enjoy it. Please, eat as much as you like." He reached for one of the rolls and tore off a small bite to pop into his mouth. Tatsu wasn't actually hungry, but he didn't want to completely forgo eating. He had the feeling if he didn't eat something that it would make Tara uncomfortable.
She chuckled quietly and tried a bite of the lobster. Equally divine. "You are going to spoil me, Mister Drake," she said with a small, playful pout. "And I'll get fat and I won't be able to perform."
"There is nothing wrong with spoiling a talented young woman who has been graciously giving her spare time to a humble fan of her talents." Tatsu countered with a soft chuckle. "And I highly doubt you will become fat from one night of indulgence."
"Weeeell, maybe just one night," Tara relented with a chuckle. She continued to pick at the food, not wanting to limit herself to just one piece and so taking small bites of each offered dish.
The way he kept praising her talent was making her blush, and she attempted to change the subject a bit if only to preserve some of her dignity. "So, you said before you could...feel my magic? How does that work?"
While Tara enjoyed sampling the food, Tatsu sipped his wine and occasionally nibbled at the roll out of a sense of obligation. It was very good bread, of course, but he didn't eat as much as humans tended to - even if he was a dragon.
"It is hard to describe." He admitted about his magic. Which was true enough. "When I sense magic I can draw it into me, or it can draw me into it. Think of tendrils of magic, or threads, perhaps and when they meet they begin to intertwine and tangle together, but they are always able to pull apart. Earlier when you were playing, I felt the pull of those threads and was easily woven into them. They were a wonderful feeling. Not all magic is so pleasant to encounter."
"Really? Huh." She tilted her head at him as she continued to pick at the food. "I've never heard magic described that way. At least, not the...collision of magic. It's intriguing."
Dropping her eyes to the plate, Tara's natural curiosity grew bolder and she asked, "Did you study in Arca then? Is that why your shop's there?"
"I have never met another with quite the same ability as myself." Well, no human Tatsu had met could sense and manipulate magical energies like he could. A few had similar talent with magical flows not belonging to them, but none with exactly the same ability - and never the same level of control.
"Nellie chose the shop location, but no, I never studied in Arca. I had private mentors when I was very young." So long ago now he could hardly recall individual members of his own species.
"Ha!" She pointed a finger at him. "I knew it. You are some sort of lord or something, you have to be. No one else gets private tutors for magic."
She sat back in her chair, looking quite smug.
"Where I was raised everyone received personalized tutoring to train their strengths with magic. None of us were treated better or worse than the others. I am not a lord." There had been no such thing among his own kind, and with the humans he was just a very wealthy merchant.
"Hm." Tara frowned and shook her head, not in denial, more in disbelief. "Well, that must've been...very beneficial." Curiosity stoked even higher now, she pressed cautiously, "Where exactly were you raised then?"
"Somewhere that no longer exists. It was destroyed a long time ago." Tatsu leaned back in his chair, nursing his wine with a sigh. He had the look of a man full of regret. "Peaceful people make easy targets for the ruthless and uncaring."
"Oh." Her eyes widened slightly, then softened, the lines around her mouth tightening a bit. "I'm...sorry."
She knew the words weren't adequate, but the were the best she could do. She sighed and looked down at the table, adding in a soft murmur, "I- I know what you mean. The world forces you to harden yourself."
"It was a very long time ago." Tatsu simply murmured. It was not something that Tara needed to apologize for. She certainly hadn't been one of the people responsible for destroying his home and butchering his people.
He smiled faintly at her assessment of what the world forced you to do. "Do I seem all that hardened by my ordeals?"
"Actually...no." She furrowed her brow, evidently puzzled by that. "You seem very...at peace." It was the best way she could find to describe his demeanor.
Finally seeming to realize that she was really the only one eating, she paused and muttered sheepishly, "Um- you didn't get this all for me, right? Eat something, I feel awkward." She chuckled a bit.
At peace. Tatsu wasn't sure if at peace were the right words to truly describe him, but Tara could only judge based on what he showed her. He simply smiled and took another sip of his wine, enjoying the flavor. He did enjoy this place so much, they knew how to accommodate his fanciful tastes almost expertly.
"Forgive me, Miss Tara. I admit the food was not my focus, I have found you far more interesting, but I am sorry for causing you discomfort." For her more than anything he picked one of the shrimp out and popped it into his mouth with a pleased hum. Well, it was good.
"Oh, I didn't mean- you're not makin me uncomfortable, I just feel guilty being the only one eating all this fine s- food, y'know?" She offered a crooked smile and took another small sip of her wine.
Tara was hardly a lightweight, but she would admit to a few drinks earlier in the day, the buzz from which had not quite worn off, and when coupled with the wine was making her feel much more relaxed.
"Don't s'pose you're in town long?" she asked with a tilt of her head, a few strands of hair falling from her braid to brush her cheek, which she blew away absently.
"No need to feel guilty." It had been ordered for her, after all. Although Tatsu didn't bother to point that out. He was far more interested in relaxing back in his chair with his wine, studying Tara from across the table.
"Until I decide to leave town, and decide where to go next." Most people probably traveled with a plan, but he liked to act on a whim when a mood or emotion struck him. Just as it had happened to see him spending his evening with Tara. Entertaining company had not been part of his evening plan until moments before he had asked her to join him.
"It's nice isn't it?" She smiled and settled back a little more comfortably in her chair. "Not really having a plan- being free to roam as you like." She chuckled a bit and added, "Though I suppose you have to report home to your daughter every now and again."
"She does prefer to hear from me at regular intervals." Tatsu acknowledged. Of course she did, anyone who loved someone would wish to hear that they were doing well often. He traveled home frequently because he also worried about Nellie and wished to make sure she was safe and happy.
It was what family did.
"What about you Miss Tara? Is there no one waiting to hear from you on occasion?" Surely she must have someone that worried for her while she traveled the world alone.
"Nope." Tara popped the "p" as she leaned back into her chair and flashed him a quick smile. With a little shrug, she said easily, "People are complicated. Not worth it."
She suddenly frowned a bit, glancing at the drink in her hand. Hmm- she normally didn't just blurt out what she was thinking like that. Maybe she'd had enough for the night.
"I see." Tatsu murmured thoughtfully, observing Tara in a whole new light over his wine glass. "People are complicated, but they can be wonderful. I know that life was unbearably lonely before Nellie came into it."
He shrugged his shoulders slightly. It had been a very interesting evening. "Are you growing tired? There is a room available to you. Feel free to use it as long as you like."
Tara's eyes widened slightly and she blinked at him. "Um- really?"
She was getting tired, she had to admit; but while Tatsu had done nothing so far to make her feel as though she was in danger, but that didn't necessarily mean she wasn't. "That's, ah, very kind of you, but I'm not so sure..."
She trailed off, not quite knowing what to say that wouldn't be rude.
"How many opportunities do you have to stay in luxury accommodations?" Tatsu asked with a somewhat wry smile. He was sadly aware of her concerns. It still boggled him that men could harm women.
"I assure you this is an offer without stipulations. I do not expect anything in return, if you must simply view it as an eccentric fool with too much spare gold spoiling you." He shrugged slightly and emptied his wine glass before setting it aside. "You do not have to accept, of course. Either way, thank you, for the pleasant company. Your presence brought me great enjoyment."
Tara hesitated a moment more, then sighed and offered him a slightly wry smile. "In that case, I think I'll take you up on that," she said softly. "I meant no offense, really, it's just...a girl has to be careful, y'know?"
Her smiled turned a little lopsided and she nodded at him. "I should be thanking you. I rarely get the chance to just talk with someone like this- particularly someone who has such an appreciation for music. Not to mention everything else you've done for me," she chuckled.
"Expressing gratitude is generally a good thing, but I do understand. It is a dangerous world and who really knows what a stranger will do?" Tatsu wasn't really offended. Years ago it had offended him when a female thought he might harm her, but he had simply grown used to the fact that with humans it just wasn't the same as his kind.
He stood from his chair, smiling warmly to Tara. "It has been a very pleasant evening, Miss Tara, and I thank you deeply for that. If it makes you more comfortable, a servant will show you to your room. Ask any of the staff if you find you have need of anything at all."
"Well...thank you again." Tara paused, then admitted almost grudgingly, "I actually- might be more comfortable if you would show me. If it's not too much trouble."
She had no idea who the people working here really were. And if anyone knew how easy it was to ingratiate oneself into a serving position she did- strategically it could be useful.
"Oh?" Tatsu questioned, raising a brow. She'd seemed somewhat suspicious of his motives, he'd assumed Tara wouldn't want him coming directly to her door. Still, if it made her more comfortable for him to escort her then who was he to refuse? "Very well, it would be no trouble at all."
He moved around the table and offered her his hand with a smile. "I think you will be very satisfied with the accommodations."
She gave a small smile of her own and took his hand gently as she stood. "I'm sure I will be, thank you."
Once on her feet, she gave the table a quick look and bit her lip for a moment. "Should we, um...clean up?"
Tatsu glanced at the table and shook his head before reaching into his coat and pulling out a silver coin, which he set next to his empty wine glass. "The staff will see to it."
Tip taken care of for the late service, he gently lead her from the dinning hall and up the grand staircase to the upper floor. It was a long hall with heavy double doors gilded in gold designs leading into suites on either side. Tatsu brought her to a set of doors on the side of the hall with an ocean view. "Here we are. This will be your room until you decide to leave. As you are a guest, please do call on the servants for anything you need. They will gladly provide for your every request."
"Right. Thank you." Tara smiled, just a tad strained, and nodded at him gratefully. Her eyes kept flicking toward the view over the water, still in awe of the beauty of this place, even if it wasn't quite to her usual tastes.
"You are most welcome. I suppose I shall take my leave of you for now. Have pleasant dreams, Miss Tara." Tatsu stepped back so that he could bow deeply to her once more before doing just as he said - walking further down the hall towards his own room. It was getting late and he would hate to further disturb her resting hours.
Tara relaxed slightly as he left, sinking into the edge of a bed that was far more luxiourious than anything she'd ever say on before.
Well. This was happening, apparently.
With a huff, she flipped back onto the mattress. She was still a little wary, but tired enough that her eyes were only closed for a few moments before she was unconscious.
Tatsu did not sleep, but he rarely did.
Instead once in his room he settled into a lounge chair on the balcony and made himself as comfortable as he could. His eyes were barely open, and he was not moving, but he didn't sleep. Not in the sense a human would use. When Tatsu relaxed like that his mind expanded. It could encompass and touch every living thing for miles and miles - if he let it wander so far.
Tonight he preoccupied his mind beneath the waves of the ocean, observing the predators beneath the surf. It was a way to pass the time.
At first light he was up and moving, heading down to a dinning veranda. Tea and breakfast were promptly served, and even a few of the other guests - all wealthy nobles and traders - also had their morning meal out overlooking the ocean.
Tara was up relatively early, and her constant need to know her surroundings as much as possible had her exploring the upper floors of the building.
Soon enough, her grumbling stomach urged her back to the room where they'd dined the night before and she poked her head inside cautiously, glancing around.
The room was much the same as it had been the night before, except now some of the tables were actually occupied. A few of the other guests glanced at her, but for the most part no one paid her the slightest attention.
Except one of the serving staff.
"Good morning, Miss! Shall I show you to a table for breakfast or were you going to be joining Master Tatsu on the veranda? It's just through those doors there." The man gestured to the open doors that let the morning breeze into the dining room.
Tara resisted the urge to tense and glower, giving a sharp nod instead. "Ah, right. Thanks." Ducking her head, she quickly made her way out onto the veranda, wishing she felt more comfortable in this place.
Tatsu was seated comfortably at a table that afforded him the best possible view of the ocean and beach. There was a gentle morning breeze teasing at his white hair. On the table were fruits, bread, butter, jam, and honey.
"Good morning, did you sleep well?" He inquired when she drew close enough.
Tara approached cautiously and took a seat. "Ah- yes, actually. Thanks... You?"
She was totally out of her element, and she had no idea how to behave.
"My night was restful." Tatsu mused, pointing at the food. "Please, help yourself. Breakfast is such an important meal."
It was true, and he watched her curiously. "You should relax. So much tension is not good for you."
The bard smirked wryly. "I don't really do "relax", but I appreciate the concern," she said with a quiet laugh, carefully taking a plate and starting to fill it.
"Everyone needs to relax sometimes." Not an accusation, just an observation of fact. If you were under constant stress you could lose your mind. Tatsu had done so before, although not violently. He had simply allowed himself to wallow in his misery and self-pity and had slept for years without waking.
"Will you be staying long? I understand if you have other places to be, but you are welcome to keep me company as long as you like. I have no immediate travel plans." Not that he kept strict plans.
Tara's smirk settled into a softer smile. "I can stay a while," she said softly. "It's not as though I have any pressing issues to attend to," she added with a quiet chuckle.
There was something to be said for the freedom the life of a bard provided. A lack of security sure, but freedom nonetheless.
"Splendid. I will enjoy the company immensely and I hope you find your time spent here enjoyable as well." It truly was a very fine place to stay. Tatsu did prefer a touch of luxury when it was available. "Would you care to take a walk along the beach after breakfast? Walking aids digestion, you know."
"That sounds lovely, thank you." She smiled and dipped her head to him.
She loved the sea, and as luxurious as their current surroundings were it would be good to get out of here for a while and be back in her element-- well, if not her element, then an environment she was more comfortable with. Something not quite so cultured.
"Then please, eat as much as you like. I am more than happy to leave for a stroll as soon as you are ready." Tatsu was smiling faintly as he looked out over the balcony, it really was a fantastic view of the ocean from here.
Tara was more than happy to obey that particular suggestion, though she tried to at least remember basic table manners as she finished off the food in front of her. When she was done, she got to her feet and moved to stand by Tatsu at the balcony rail, looking out over the sea before them.