Snippet #2467066

“Why me?” Irvin protested, almost in a whimper as he followed Jake to his tent. “I mean really, ask Darren.”
“She might get suspicious if it’s Darren or me. She’ll definitely know if it’s me. Just make something up and get her out of the camp for a couple of hours. If you can get her to follow you to Newhaven, even better; then you won’t run into anyone coming into camp. Just for a couple of hours Irvin, walking to the city and back is about half the time we need.”
“Oh, come on... What reason would she have to follow me to Newhaven? I’m not that good looking you know?” Irvin muttered. “I honestly don’t even understand why are you throwing her the party if it’s your birthday.”
“Because... Well... Let’s say it’s a family tradition of sorts.” Jake replied simply. “Come on now... Off you go. She should be back from her run any minute and I don’t want her noticing any unusual behavior. Just look at it as training.”
“Training?” Irvin retorted, shaking his head.
“Hey, deception is a very useful skill. Go practice it.” Jake chuckled, playfully nudging Irvin in the direction of Ess’ camp. “Just remember; keep her out of camp all costs... And try to stay out of trouble.”
“It’s either one or the other Killer... I’m no miracle worker.” The boy retorted.
“Make it work Irvin. I don’t want her around for the preparations, but I’d like you both to be back for the party, get it?”
“Aaargh, you’re not making this easier for me, Killer!” Irvin exclaimed, stomping his way towards Ess’ camp. “I’ll figure something out, okay? Just remember you’ll owe me for this!” The boy concluded.
Jake shook his head, laughing as the boy wandered off in the direction of Ess’ camp. It had been a bit of a hassle to plan a party in the camp without letting word of it reach Ess, especially considering how excited people had gotten with the idea. They even made sure not to tell the children about it until the night before to keep them from saying something to her in their excitement. Some would argue that, the way things were going, maybe this wasn’t the best of times to party, but Jake was of the opinion that a party was exactly the kind of thing that was needed in times like these; which was confirmed by how the moods in camp had improved in the past few days of planning.

“Oy, stranger!” A cheerful voice called from the path that led to Jake’s little camp. “I just passed Irv... The kid’s not too pleased, I could be the distraction if you rather... The last trip to Newhaven with Essence was surely entertaining.”
Jake snickered as he shook his head, turning to face Allison as she walked by, carrying a very a long thin package that was unmistakably a bow. “I dread to wonder how entertaining it really was.” He played, his eyes scanning his friend in a quick assessment of her overall well-being. “I want Irvin to do it.” He stated simply. “You know... I’m pretty sure he could learn a thing or two from hanging around Ess for a few hours. There’s only so much I can teach the kid for myself.”
“I suppose that makes sense.” Ali agreed. “Annie won’t be coming around, I’m afraid... I’m sure you were already expecting that though, what with all the... You know, she’s got a lot on her hands.” She mumbled with a small shrug. “She sent a gift though, and... She said she has one for you, BUT... You’ll only get it if you visit.”
“Oh? Well, that’s not very fair now, is it? Not like she ever visits me.” Jake retorted, rolling his eyes playfully. “I’ll think about it.” He concluded stubbornly.
“I’m sure you will, Jacob... Sure you will.” Ali laughed.
“So... You made Ess a bow?” Jake asked, nodding towards the package Ali was carrying. “You’ve taken a liking to crafting for others, maybe you can open a shop.”
“Who knows.” Ali smiled. “I’m afraid the ones I crafted for the guard are not nearly as special as this one, but then... I took my sweet time with it. Maybe now I’ll finally get mine finished one of these days.”
“Can I take a look?” Jake asked excitedly, leaning towards Ali as if hoping to peek inside the package.
“Absolutely not.” Ali scolded. “It’s not for you, you shouldn’t get to be the first to see it.”
“You people are aware that it is my birthday today, right?” Jake muttered.
“Aaaw...” Ali taunted. “Don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten you, my friend. I have something for the birthday boy too.” She snickered, ruffling Jake’s hair and pulling from her pack a rectangular item hidden inside a dark velvet sack. “Happy birthday.” She declared cheerfully, handing it over to him.
Jake picked up the present and opened it; it was book. Not an ordinary looking book however; it was without question the nicest looking book Jake had ever seen in his life. For one thing it was brand new; impeccably clean sheets of paper encased in black leather. The front cover was a smooth dark color aside from a simple engraving on the bottom right corner consisting of the silhouette of a wolf howling beneath a crescent moon. The engraving was almost unnoticeable at first glance, the contours of the wolf and moon colored in a dark shade of grey only a few tones lighter than the black surface of the leather cover. Jake spotted it immediately however, as though he just expected it to be there for some odd reason. “It’s a journal.” He mumbled, opening it to find his name written on the center of the first page, in black ink and fancy lettering.
“Observant as always, Jake. Well done. Yes, it’s a journal. Remember that you told me how you burned yours down after that whole... You know... Treason... Situation... Episode?”
“That’s a simple way to describe the whole ordeal...” Jake mumbled, not all too amused, but nodding along to her words nonetheless. “Sure, I remember. I burned it not too long after moving to the desert. Not like I needed any reminders anyway.”
“Well... You are twenty four years old now... That’s about four years since that whole thing happened. Figured it’s about time you think about rewriting your story. Maybe this time you’ll want to remember it, hm?”
“Maybe.” Jake agreed simply, a contemplative smile crossing his features for a moment. “Thanks. It’s a really nice gift.”
“Well, you’re welcome... Now you can stop whining about not getting cool things on your birthday.”
“I wasn’t whining.” Jake protested, frowning at her.
Ali snickered, ruffling up Jake’s hair. “Sure you weren’t.” She teased. “Do you know what time Crys is coming over?”
“Hopefully soon, she’s bringing the liquor. Actually, I haven’t seen Kaya in a little while, so I’m guessing she’ll be here in a bit.” Jake concluded, starting to walk Ali into the camp. “You haven’t spoken to her lately?”
“No, I’ve been with the Newhaven crew for the past few weeks.” Ali explained.
“Then how did you talk to Annie if you’ve been in Newhaven?” Jake questioned, confused.
“I didn’t... I talked to Alistair last week when he was in town visiting his aunt. He brought me Ess’ gift and told me Annie won’t be coming. Seriously though, Jake; you should go see her. Alistair doesn’t think she’s doing as well as she looks.”
“Maybe I’ll go after the party, then.” Jake agreed.

As they reached the center of camp they were greeted by the kids, who immediately surrounded Ali wanting to know if she had brought them any new toys and eventually they just dragged her off with them.

----------------------

“That’s a lot of booze Crys, can we afford to give this away like this?” Nicholas half-protested, glancing at the small wagon Shadow was pulling.
“It’s for a friend and we spare no expense when it comes to friends, Nick. Besides, business is going well... We can afford to let go of some bottles.”
“I suppose.” Nick mumbled, kicking up some dirt as he walked and making a pouty face. “It’s not fair that you all get to party and I have to go back and WORK.” He exclaimed dramatically.
“Aaaaw, you poor little man... Forced to go back to his bar and drink and flirt with the drunken ladies....” Crys snorted. “Give me a break.”
“Heeey...” Nicholas protested. “That’s not all I do! It’s a great part of what I do, but it’s not ALL I do.”
Dastan chuckled at the man. “I’d take that job anytime.”
“You have a job, Shaykh.” Crys scolded. “And we both know it has never gotten in the way of your drinking and flirting before. Right?” She asked, poking the man on his side playfully.
“Aye, Red... When you’re right, you’re right.” He agreed with a snicker.
“Are we there yet?” Nick questioned.
“We’re close, not much longer n-” Crys stopped abruptly, halting the group of men following after her, a wide smile crossing her expression. The group of ten Crimson Shadows, as well as Dastan and Nicholas, seemed confused as to what they were waiting for until there was very audible rustling in the vegetation coming closer and closer, finally visible in the form of a large white wolf jumping out of the bushes, dragging a dark green thick fabric that flowed behind her like a cape as she ran. The Crimson were a bit startled, but Dastan and Nicholas seemed highly amused at the sight, the Crimson leader motioning for his men to stand down as a couple of them were starting to reach for weapons. The wolf circled the group a couple of times dragging around the cloak before dropping it at Crys’ feet and circling the group again, sniffing everyone and seeming to particularly annoy Shadow by bouncing around excitedly around the horse emitting high pitched barks and short howls of greeting.

Crys calmly crouched to retrieve the article of clothing on the ground, feeling the fabric and mumbling a bit to herself before calling out to the animal. “Kaaaya...” She sang softly, chuckling as the wolf immediately halted at her call and dashed in a straight line towards her, nearly sliding past as she halted, but quickly regaining her balance and pouncing on Crys; almost knocking the woman over and covering her in kisses. “There, there, girlie... I know... I missed you too...” Crys spoke soothingly, patting the wolf’s side trying to get her to still a bit. “By the Twins, you’ve gotten bigger since I was last in camp, haven’t you, hm?” She asked, scratching behind Kaya’s ears lovingly, wrapping the cloak around the wolf so that she was wearing it. “There, now you look badass.” She stated, chuckling as she stood up, trying, but failing to brush all the white fur from her clothing.
“Sure... When the wolf does it it’s cute... If I try to pounce on you and lick your face it’s all ‘you’re too drunk, Dastan... Knock it off or I’ll stab you’...” Dastan snorted in a fake offended tone. “Why does your wolf have a cloak? Is she like an honorary assassin or something?”
“It’s not hers, it’s Jake’s... but yes, yes she is.” Crys replied calmly. “And I stand by my previous statement... I WILL stab you.”
“She brought you Jake’s cloak?” Dastan asked in a tone of laughter.
“She always does it. If I stay in camp she leaves his stuff in my tent as well. I don’t know why, I think she just likes his scent so when she wants to hang around me she has to have something of his...” Crys shrugged. “I don’t know. She spends pretty much all her time following him around when I’m Blackpond, so I guess it makes sense.”
“So you two share custody of the wolf?” Nicholas asked, snorting a laugh. “Like... Baby practice?”
Crys simply glared at Nicholas and the man’s laughter silenced immediately, but she shrugged and responded. “She likes him. I can’t exactly blame her.”
“Well, I can’t blame her either... Jakey is adorable... Like a teddy bear.” Nick played.
“Don’t make me smack you, Nicholas.” Crys muttered.
“Whaat? You can’t handle a bit of competition? Geee.” The man chuckled, idly patting Shadow as he walked beside the horse.
“I stabbed one innkeeper and I’ll stab another if I have to.” Crys retorted.
“You stabbed her and then bandaged her up.” Dastan pointed out with a chuckle. “You can’t stop being nice if you try, can you?”
“I don’t like to lose my temper and I felt a bit remorseful, alright? Don’t think I would be that nice a second time. Especially if she were to provoke me after what I’ve already done; I’m not too kind when people are too dumb to learn from their mistakes.”

-------------------------

Jake was on top of a tree tying up one end of a long string to one of the higher branches. From his tree to the one on the opposite end of the string several colored flags hung above the party area, several rows of those flags were being hung up by other members of the guard all over the encampment. The flags had been visibly made by the children, but they did give the place a more cheery and festive look, one couldn’t deny that. Jake was on his way down when he heard a bit of a commotion of excited barks and laughter just below him, he looked down to see Kaya running about dressed in his cloak the hood fallen over her eyes blocking her sight. He dropped down from the lowest branch of the tree and chuckled at the wolf. “Not enough you steal my clothes, you’re wearing them now, too?” He snickered as the wolf halted at the sound of his voice, walking over to the wolf and tugging on the dark green hood. “There you are.” He smiled,
ruffling up Kaya’s fur, not at all surprised to see Crys was not too far behind. “So, you did go back for it, huh?” She questioned as Jake freed Kaya from the cloak and tried a bit hopelessly to get rid of all the white fur that had stuck to the fabric.
“Well, you said I shouldn’t have left it. Besides, I’m rather fond of this cloak.” Jake shrugged. “It wasn’t too much trouble.”
“I bet it wasn’t.” Crys stated simply.
Jake sighed as he looked past Crys to the group of people that were unloading boxes of liquor and some other supplies. They were clearly not assassins and Jake was not too thrilled to see that Dastan was one of them. “Why did you have to bring him?”
“Why not? Besides, the Crimson are good at parties... You said you needed help with the party, who else was I supposed to bring? Don’t worry, they’re not going to break anything... I hope.”
“Fine.” Jake muttered. “I just can’t quite say the same for myself, that’s all.”
Crys chuckled. “Hey... Suit yourself. I’m almost positive you’d get your ass kicked... In front of the guard... On your birthday... Just think about it.”
Jake snorted, walking past Crys to help with the boxes. “I would not get my ass kicked, just try me.” He mumbled under his breath.
“What’d you say there, Jakey?” Crys asked, holding back a bit of laughter as she followed him towards the others.
“I said I’ll help with those boxes.” Jake replied simply.
“Mhm... That’s what I thought I heard.”

-----------------------------

Raven's Nest/Newhaven

Curses and grumblings of minor complaints of pain, halted Ess’ progress for a few moments before she looked at her sketch again and then back up at the Oak. She was hidden beneath the leaves except for the frustrating rustling of her movement here and there. Her patience seemed thin today.

In the past, if she was jealous about something she would never willingly admit such a thing, but when she saw Darren’s cozy tree house he had built, hidden away behind the branches and new leaves, Ess had a childish outburst of sorts.

“Of course I’m bloody jealous!!” Essence had blubbered out, her face contorting into a pout of sorts.

Darren just shook his head and chuckled. “I’m sure Aiden and I could build you one…”

“Forget it. Things between Aiden and I are just weird now. If I let him do something for me, he’ll just think he’s got a chance or something..” Ess snorted through a slightly aggravated sigh.

“Alright. If your stalker is going to throw a fit about it, then I can build it myself..” Darren smiled.

“ No, it’s fine. I’m sure I can handle it. I mean...how hard could it be?”

Several blisters and bruises later, Ess had only managed to clear out the center of the oak in preparation, and as she leaped down from a high branch and rolled to her feet, her fingers were still gripping an axe as if it were apart of her arm. Everything she managed to rearrange, she never put the ax down because truthfully, she had forgotten she was still holding the weapon.

“Deception is a useful skill, Irvin.... Try to stay out of trouble Irvin... Be back in time for the party, Irvin...” The boy mumbled, kicking up dirt as he walked towards the oak, not really paying much attention to his surroundings. Irvin honestly prefered to stick around and help set up for the party than be the one to distract Essence; he didn’t exactly think he’d be able to hide the truth for long if the woman started to suspect something was off. If she started to question he knew he’d get nervous and tell her everything. He just didn’t want to screw up weeks of planning. It would really suck if the surprised got spoiled, not to mention Jake was almost sure Ess would run away if she knew there was something like this being planned for her.

Distracted as he was Irvin approached the oak without noticing any movement, idly pacing towards the tree as if half-expecting Ess to be hiding behind it. He was almost right. As he stopped by the tree, looking around to see if someone was coming by, he was startled by an axe wielding redhead dropping from the tree branches. The boy jumped in place and let out a loud yelp. “What the hell!” He shouted, resisting the urge to reach for his chest as if it was still possible to hide the fact she had scared the hell out of him.

Essence quirked a brow before turning her gaze to meet Irvin’s as she acknowledged his presence. “Good morning Kiddo…” Ess snickered in slight amusement, “Coming by to steal something different today? You can settle on something else besides the bear because he is being babysat by Miss Lily at the moment.” Holding back a chuckle, she rested one hand on her hip, the other holding the axe, absently tapping her leg with the side of the blade.

Irvin let out a rather shaky laugh, still trying to calm his nerves from his little scare. “No, I’m not allowed to touch the bear... Jake said I’m too irresponsible to handle the stuffed animals.” He played, taking a deep breath as he felt his heartbeat finally settle back to normal. “Besides, I think that little stunt already served its purpose... Although not how I expected it... Eh... Plans can’t always run perfect; where’s the fun in that?” The boy stopped talking, his eyes scanning the area as though he was trying to find something interesting around. “Hmm... Well... I wouldn’t mind stealing you for a bit... Unless you have plans to hack someone to bits.”

A devilish, yet teasing giggle escaped her lips, finally noticing she was still gripping the axe. Raising the weapon before her eyes, as if to examine it for the first time, she shrugged, resting the blade upon her shoulder. “Things could have gone much worse. Everyone survived, so all in all it was a productive...day. I did not have any plans, though, on hacking anyone today to pieces...unless you have someone in mind? A favor needed perhaps?” Ess giggled again, slowly dropping the axe beside the oak. “You want to steal ’Me?’ I don’t know if I should be flattered or worried. Maybe both.” Ess crossed her arms, tilting her head in curiosity at the meaning behind Irv’s words. “Where you going?”

“Hmm...” Irvin mumbled under his breath, somewhat considering the offered favor, but shaking his head slightly as if brushing it aside. “Maybe some other time.” He muttered to himself. Sometimes it wasn’t all too easy to keep to his part of the deal he and Jake had made all those months ago, he couldn’t deny. His tone returning to its previous casual manner Irvin shrugged slightly. “All the responsible adults seem to have something better to do, and I haven’t actually been to the city yet. Not really. There must be some fun to be had over there, no?”

Essence glanced over the boy again slowly, thinking on his words, a slightly confused look crossing her face. “I don’t think you need a chaperone, right?” Essence groaned as a possibility crossed her mind. “Is Jake running out of people to assign to keep an eye on me? I am not always a good influence, I think at least. Someplace in particular you want to visit?” Ess didn’t wait for Irv to answer her last question before gathering her things and strapping her sword and dagger to her waist. “Darren’s not in camp? Ugh..where did that boy wander off to..” She mumbled partially to herself. Rummaging through one of her bags, she retrieved a few of her daggers, habitually tucking them away inside her boots. “Tala...Beo...come…” Ess commanded at what appeared to be to herself. None of her wolves were in sight, but once she spoke, both of them came bursting through the foliage, pouncing excitedly around Irvin in play. “Weapons...wolfies...check. Ok I will try to be a responsible adult and keep an eye on you then. Just promise to not tell Jake where I may bring you..” The woman winked playfully, nodding forward. “Lead the way then.”
Irvin flinched slightly at Ess’ questioning. He wondered how often did Jake have someone check up on the woman, she didn’t seem to him like she needed babysitters or anything of that sort. He didn’t make any comments however, he was just glad that she didn’t push him for answers and played along. Hopefully in the city they’d find something entertaining, he wasn’t really sure. “I don’t know any places in particular.” The boy stated, jumping slightly as the wolves suddenly jumped out of the bushes, causing him to chuckle in a mix of amusement and annoyance. “Everyone is trying to give me a heart attack today.” He mumbled playfully. “Like I said... Haven’t actually been to the city, except visiting Jake’s buddies... Apparently they’re keeping an eye out for someone, but he won’t tell me who and why... No luck so far either...” Irvin sighed slightly, not paying much mind to the path as he found the general path towards Newhaven. “No word on the people who took my sister either... You’d think these assassins would be a bit better at finding people, huh?” He mentioned casually, as if finding amusement in the fact, but quickly changing the subject. “I kind of needed to practice some skills, but then... It wouldn’t be too responsible of you to let me... You know, stealing is rather unethical and whatnot... I technically am not supposed to do it... If it becomes a necessity in the future though I’m gonna want to be at the top of my game. Do you know how? You know, picking pockets and stuff?”

“Hmm…” Essence pondered over the idea of her being a bit of a tour guide for Irvin on Newhaven and was trying to settle on where to bring him first. Still thinking it over, she stretched her arm and lightly rested it across the boy’s shoulders and paused in step to lean on him casually. She didn’t know exactly what to say to Irv on the topic of his sister. How could she know if she was indeed alive or not? The whole thing was twisted and made her sick and she feared for her, a few memories of her ordeal creeping to the surface. Darren had mentioned the camp him and the others had found and even after the scouting party had returned, Mageria had sent them back out, with more men. “Soon…” Was all the Captain said, but the look in her eye was a mix of a promise with excitement and a cold clarity that this would only be the start when things went into motion. So, Ess pushed to remain upbeat. “Well, even though we haven’t found her yet, or heard anything, you can’t think the worst. Sometimes, people disappear for their own protection. We’ll find her, Irvin. Trust Jake and trust me. This is personal for me on many levels as well and Darren has your back.” Ess nodded at her own words. “A bloody reckoning is coming...in our favor. I have faith in my new family as well as Jake.”

Tala and Beo were keeping pace with Ess and Irvin but ran off ahead when they paused in their step. Ess whistled a shrill, bird like noise and shortly after both wolves responded in a small howl off in the distance to alert her of their presence. Pulling back from Irvin, Ess ruffled up his hair and smiled warmly, her features flickering to mimic Darren’s and then Irvin’s. “I’m not bad at pickpocketing, but I kind of cheat.” She bowed slightly and spun with an adorable flair in her step. “I am pretty good at disappearing. We could train some, while in the city. How about it? We’d be helping eachother. And Jakey? He doesn’t need to know.” Essence winked and giggled, walking backwards a few paces before turning back on the path. “What else is it that you do Irv? Darren said you can freeze water, or something? Can you manipulate liquids in general? Ooh ooh,..” Ess spun around a few times in excitement, her features fading back to her own. “Can you freeze someone’s blood? Ever make heads explode?”
Irvin nodded along to Ess’ words. He wasn’t sure whether he wanted to hope his sister was alive or not, mostly he just tried not to obsess about it... And trust. Jake had said that he didn’t think she would be dead, but that was all he had said. Irvin had let that be the end of their conversation at that time; Jake seemed often indecisive on whether he wanted to protect him or be honest, and Irvin was afraid his head would just explode one day with worry. It was a bit funny to watch, he wouldn’t deny it.

The mere change of subject seemed to have lightened Irvin’s mood and he couldn’t help an impressed look from crossing his eyes as he watched Ess change her appearance to look like him. A playful frown forming itself in the boy’s expression as he mumbled “Wow, didn’t realize I was so pale... hmph...I might need a haircut too.” The boy stated amused, ruffling up his blonde locks and watching Ess as though looking into a mirror. Shaking his head, Irvin chuckled. “I see you and Jake don’t share the same view on these kinds of things then...” The boy pointed out, making a serious face and trying to imitate Jake’s speech as he muttered. “How are you supposed to learn anything this way? You can’t cheat your way through life, Kid.” Irvin rolled his eyes, kicking up a bit of dirt as he walked. “He’s one to talk... Mr. Invisible...Yeah, he doesn’t need to know...” The boy agreed, nodding along to his own words and glancing around momentarily instinctively checking that Jake wasn’t hiding in the bushes, even if he knew that the man was busy elsewhere. “I’ve never tried freezing, but I did kind of boil this dude’s blood once... Not intentionally, and it wasn’t very pleasant for me either... Freezing is harder, I take it that trying to freeze someone’s blood would drain me pretty quickly, I did freeze a guy’s hand solid once and it took me quite a bit to recover. It was cool though, my buddy hit it with a hammer and it smashed to bits... How could I explode someone’s head? I could try... Hmmm... Maybe I could. Yeah.”

Essence held a large smile for quite some time, listening to Irvin but fell silent in thought until they could see the city gates up ahead. Tala and Beo were waiting up ahead for them and as if they had grown bored, they had been engaging in some playful sparring of their own. Tala had Beo pinned to the ground, growling in a challenge. Even though Beo was now larger than Tala he had submitted until she stepped off and then he pounced and pinned his mother down in return. Tala was still, except her tail, thumping in approval and only paused in their play when they heard Ess and Irv. Ess clapped her hands loudly, motioning towards the woods and the wolves barked in understanding before bolting back off into the trees. “They will wait for us outside..can’t train properly with wolves following us, now can we?”

Ess walked over to a guard at the gate and muttered something in his ear and the man simply nodded and motioned for both of them to enter. Entrance to the city could be tricky at certain times of the day as things grew more tense in general in Valcrest. People were definitely more on edge and cautious than they were before the whole fallout with Xypher and the guard but that was nothing in comparison to all the commotion lately. “Irv, Jake and I agree on many things, don’t get me wrong. We just have some different ways of learning I think. His method is not wrong. I hope you don’t think I don’t respect him or his way of thinking and teaching. Just saying. I have two rules. One, if we separate and there’s trouble..go to the Inn on the other side of town and wait for me. I’ll find you. Two, don’t get caught.”
Up ahead Ess could see the market, and quietly she weaved through a small crowd, her eyes darting around hungrily as if searching for something in particular. Or someone. Her eyes began to glow suddenly in excitement, her hand darting outwards to grab Irv’s shoulder as he whispered quickly in his ear. “Let’s play...see that large, balding man over there? Start with him...and then you can pick one for me.” Casually she wandered across the street, acting as if she was interested in some minor trinket of cheap jewelry for sale, watching Irvin from the corner of her eye.

“I don’t necessarily think Jake is wrong either, I just think he needs to loosen up a bit. Seriously, I worry that guy’s head is gonna explode someday.” Irvin mumbled, rolling his eyes impatiently for a moment, but forgetting all about Jake as they joined the crowds of the city, the boy’s eyes instinctively following the flow of people across the market areas. He didn’t know Newhaven as well as Blackpond, he didn’t know the alleyways, the rooftops, the abandoned buildings, none of it. The crowds were the only smart place to hide in circumstances like that. He followed Ess closely until she pointed out to him a man. The boy nodded in agreement his eyes casually following the man as he joined the crowds, disappearing amongst the groups of people. For a while he just circled around, watching the man’s movements and quickly determining what he had of value and what was the best way to reach it. The boy kept hidden in the masses of shoppers, never straying too far from his target, but keeping his distance until there was an opportunity; timing was important and Irvin wanted to make his move when the man was the most distracted. It took a bit of time, but eventually the opportunity presented itself as the man had his attention drawn by one of the nearby merchant stands. At this point Irvin moved, quickly, always following the motions of the crowds his hands reaching calmly to swiftly remove the the knife from the sheath at the man’s belt, using it to cut his coin purse loose, and placing it back before walking away. By the time the man noticed the weight of his gold had been lifted Irvin was already out of his line of sight completely. Irvin waited until the man had given up trying to find his thief in the crowded area before joining Ess. “The lady in a light blue dress, she’s about pass us by in about ten seconds.” Irvin stated, what was undeniably a satisfied grin playing on his lips as he spoke.

Essence grinned, a sly wink her only response before she ‘accidentally’ bumped into a gruff looking blond man. If Ess was to guess he had to have been in his forties but looked even older.

“What you doing Buddie? Watch it!” He snapped at Ess, who features had already melted away, reflecting the same violet eyes encased by dark skin, short goatee, and a perfectly shaven head. Given time to walk the crowd, Ess was able to blend her new masculine features and credit them to some of the passing patrons. She was thankful that she wore only a simple tunic, her belt cinching at the waist, plain, black slacks and boots, all indifferent for whatever form she decided to change to during their little trip. “You’re the one who needs to watch it, Guy.” Ess’ voice was venomous and deep, nothing compared to her normal airy and melodic tone. Just as the woman in blue went to pass, now behind where Ess was facing, she shoved the man before her in challenge, who reciprocated in a mirrored reaction, sending Ess violently backwards. She spun on her feet in a half circle, catching her balance while ironically colliding into the woman, but managing to keep both of them on their feet even if whatever bags where in his arms had fallen into the dirt. Ess was hoping the mild disruption would give Irv the distraction needed to pick any pockets that were left gawking at the small incident. Either way, she was already bent over the mess she had created, quickly working to pick up the bags and give them back to the lady in blue. The girl was young, brown hair, brown eyed and clearly not enjoying the spectacle around her. She wasn’t even looking up at the figure who had slammed into her until her hand reached for the same package, the man’s fingertips tickling her arm as he brought her hand to his lips. “Apologies for the scare...but I’m not sorry for this moment..” Ess flashed a handsome smile. “Anthony...and who I have the honor of…?”

“None..of your…” The girl paused, trying to hold back a shy smile. “..Elexa..” The longer she stared at the smiling man the more nervous she grew. “You should be sorry...acting like a complete animal...for what…”

Anthony stood, his arm firmly gripping the girl’s to assist her to her feet and gently placing the packages back into Elexa’s arms. “..Would you believe me if I said it was so I could meet you?” Anthony chuckled, letting his fingers fall away from her wrist, lifting now a second bracelet from his/her target, happy for the familiarity with the clasps to unsnap said bracelet without damage or notice.

“...Wouldn’t that be a nice thought..” Elexa sighed, shaking her head as she turned to move on her way.

“I guess you’ll never know..” Anthony whispered, bowing slightly before turning back towards Irvin. Turning two or three corners, Ess let her facade fade to match Irvin’s once again, rolling up her sleeve to show two dainty, bracelets adorning her forearm and then letting the sleeve slip over the stolen jewelry. “I was kind of hoping that guy I slammed into wouldn’t lose interest but guess he wasn’t as mindless as I hoped.” She smiled, lightly tapping Irvin’s arm. “So, how’d you make out?”

Irvin had wasted no time in making the best out of the distraction provided, however, half his attention was, much like everyone else’s, drawn by the small commotion Ess had created with curious admiration. Irvin didn’t like, as a general rule, to draw any type of attention to himself, but then again: what does that matter if you can change your face? The boy smiled slightly as Ess joined him, responding to her question with a simple shrug. “So, it’s official; everyone does better with the ladies than me.” He complained, seeming amused. “Have to admit though, that was a pretty effective cheat.”

After a little bit more time spent on the city streets and after properly disposing of whatever stolen property they had gathered during their training, Irvin was pretty excited to accompany Ess to the Inn, if not for any other reason because Jake had made pretty clear he was not to go there. Irv didn’t think it was such a big deal though. The bar was empty as they entered, a small chime sounding above the door as it opened announcing that customers had arrived. Irvin stopped, leaning on the counter, idly humming to himself this song that seemed to permanently linger on the back of his mind as of late, wondering how much longer until nightfall, when they were meant to return to camp for the big surprise party, it was best if they weren’t late for that.

Ess playfully threw one arm over Irv’s shoulder, her features melting back to her own. “It’s only cheating if there are set rules. We should be allowed to have fun if at when all possible, don’t you think?” She winked, “Or have you forgotten how Jakey told me he could go invisible? That was a lesson, believe it or not. I can show you how I did it with the girl as myself or to either of the sexes. Learning to read people, is an entire language all it’s own. I can see you know quite a bit by watching you, watch others. Soo...Watch and learn kid..”

Essence couldn’t deny Irv taught her a few tricks in return, a frozen smirk planted across her face in her delight. The sun was past midday when she had suggested a break. Before she let Irv lead the way into the Inn though, she had made it a purpose to stop at several different stores to pick up three or four packages. Everything had already been paid for, just sitting there waiting for her arrival. Not once did she try to push off any to Irv for him to lighten the burden, instead she passed through the doorway to the Inn with two of the smaller packages balanced perfectly on her head, the other two nestled safely in her arms. She spun just to show up a bit, before placing the packages down upon the counter and looking around for the barkeep. “Helllooooo?”

No answer. Ess just laughed and released several coins on the counter and was highly amused to see Sheila poke her head out from behind a corner. “It’s like a whistle with you...that and..”

“Alright Alright, don’t be spoiling all my secrets in front of the young man here..” Sheila smiled, leaning over the edge of the counter, brushing a stray hair from out Irv’s eyes. “Thirsty? See ...anything you like?”

Ess snickered, glancing at Irvin curiously. “Give the kid an ale and a shot.” Turning towards her current companion she leaned in as if to tell a secret. “Jake doesn’t need to know about this either but I’m sure it’s not a big deal..I think...I dunno..I believe you deserve it so I’ll buy em.”

“I don’t know..” Sheila played, as she began to pour the drinks. “Do you think you can handle it kid?”

“Hey, can I sneak back there and wash up a minute Sheila?” Ess moved around a couple stools and already past the counter as if she knew she didn’t need permission.

“I guess...stay out of the barrels this time..” The woman joked.

“I never did any such thing. It was my wolf..all Tala’s fault..” Ess laughed, disappearing for a few moments.

Irvin looked from Ess to Sheila as they conversed with amusement and curiosity in his blue eyes, not quite understanding exactly some bits of their exchange, but finding it quite entertaining all the same.Wasn’t until Ess excused herself that the boy actually got some words out to Sheila, clearing his throat a bit awkwardly as she served the drinks. “Actually, could you also get me some water?” He asked.
“Already asking for water, kiddo? You sure you want that shot?” The woman teased as she poured the boy a cup of water from a pitcher.
Irvin shrugged, grabbing the shot of liquor first and drinking it down, coughing only slightly at the burn of the liquor, but not seeming too fazed by it overall. “It’s not my first, you know.” He stated simply, taking the water and taking a large gulp, his eyes wandering around the empty bar. “Why is it so empty here?”
“Nice of you to notice. We’re not actually supposed to be open... Orders of the Alpha, but you know... I’m not doing anything, so might as well.”
Irvin emptied the glass of water quickly and pushed the cup towards Sheila for a refill. “So you don’t have to be working, right? Got any plans?”
Sheila chuckled softly. “Aren’t you forward? Well, I can make time, maybe.” She replied, refilling the water. “You have something in mind, sweetie?”
Irvin drank half the water in one large gulp, again, before looking around to make sure Ess wasn’t listening, leaning forward and lowering his voice. “Didn’t Jake tell you about the party?”
“In the Raven’s camp? No, he didn’t.” Sheila replied matching Irv’s tone of voice. “I’m a Wolf, boy, would not be very smart of him to invite me, now would it? Why are we whispering?”
“It’s a surprise.” Irvin mumbled.
“Oooh, I see... Wait, I thought it was his birthday, why...?”
“The hell do I know.” Irvin shrugged, his voice back to it’s normal volume. “Hey, I don’t think it’d be a problem, you’re his friend, why wouldn’t he want you there?”
The woman smirked. “I wouldn’t be so sure if I were you.” She stated simply. “I’ll think about it though. So, how old are you, kid? You seem a bit younger than my regulars.”
“I’m... Hm... I’m eighteen.” Irvin mumbled, drinking the rest of his water.
“Damn...” Sheila snickered. “Jake bet me that’s what you’d say.”
Irvin sighed, scratching the back of his head a bit awkwardly at the woman’s response. “You know who I am, don’t you? He told you about me.”
“Of course he did, you don’t think he expected you to come here behind his back? I honestly thought I’d see you sooner.” Sheila chuckled at Irvin’s expression and playfully ruffled his hair before taking the mug of ale the boy hadn’t touched and drinking from it.
“Does he come here often, the Alpha?” Irvin questioned simply.
“Rarely. Nowadays, I don’t see why he would bother.That’s not why Jake didn’t want you here, kid, it’s just very easy to be noticed in this bar. Assassins always notice a new face, but that won’t be an issue today, I guess.”
“I guess not.” Irvin muttered. “I’m fifteen, well... Sixteen in a month or so.” He admitted.
“Well, then I guess I’ll ask again in a few years, hm?” Sheila smiled, giving Irvin a playful wink.

Essence dropped the boots she had been wearing, onto the counter beside one of the four packages, startling Sheila slightly, as if Ess had appeared from thin air. Reaching for an empty glass from behind the counter, Ess held it in the air before the woman’s face until she took the glass to fill it with Ess’ usual choice of poison. Opening one of the packages, she removed some sort of leather skin shoes which she promptly put on. Ess had not only cleaned up any trace of dirt or grime but also had changed into a red, frilled skirt with a matching, sleeveless shirt. Casually she was unbraiding and rebraiding her curls while staring at the other packages in silence. “Almost ready to go?” She smiled to Irvin, tilting back her glass until every drop was claimed. “..I have to get these to Jake before it gets too late, I think. Did you know..that it is his birthday today?”

“Today? No…” Sheila answered with a smirk.

“I wasn’t talking to you…” Ess shook her head. “Oh ha ha..course you know…” She turned her attention to the door at the sound of a distance howl echoing from the other side of the city. “Think that’s my sign..” Stepping back she twirled playfully in her outfit. “So, whatcha think?”

“It’s Cute...what you expecting company?” The woman smiled knowingly. “Let me guess..that one I see following you around…?”

“I’m..hoping for company..” Ess whispered, closing her eyes a moment as if to listen to her surroundings before opening them with a start. “What do you mean?”

“You know...the one that is always asking about you.”

Ess’ tone grew cold as she honestly tried to think how many times she had visited the Inn with Luckas or when he was around. Even Jake or Darren, but besides them, there should be no other companions as of late. “No..Sheila...I don’t know.. Who has been asking about me?”