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Tonight was the night to get away from everything, her thoughts, her daughter, and the lonliness. The demi-human was not happy with her current situation. Being head of the family and had failed to kept one of them alive. To put more salt in the wound, the death of her best friend made things even worse. Judina had been there for her and saved her and her family from dying. This is how she pays her best friend? Lee could not live with herself anymore. Death surrounded her as if it was being welcomed like a parasite. Mentally, she was barely keeping it together. As much as she just wanted to, she had to prevent herself from unraveling for the sake of her adopted daughter.

That girl was the only thing keeping her moving. What else would the girl do if she were gone? She didn't know if her family would be intact enough to provide a sufficent enviroment, not with everyone's head on a list. The streets of Hosenka reminded her of Joya when she visited there multiple times. She was half Joyan, half Fiorian. It only seemed natural for her to blend in well. The demi-human had six kitsune tails that were neatly wrapped in cloth and linen to keep out of the way. Her fox ears were slightly backwards with her head downwards. Beside her was her guard, her hired help, her...escort. Miles, the only sane and healthy person in the family capable of doing ANYTHING, hired him to keep her safe while she was in hiding.

Liam remained on alert at all times, checking every corner. "Liam, can you choose a taven for me or some bar..." she asked. Liam stared at her a little astonished, but shrugged it off. He chose some place that was roomy and not too crowded with people. As the two entered, there was a nice fire going with some people surroudning it for warmth. She was immedately drawn in. THe fire dragon slayer was naturally drawn to the warmth of the fire and the crackling with her eyes fixated on it.

For lucretia starting over again was difficult; not because she lacked the ability to do so but because she had been so used to being in one biome. It was weird learning another place and another society over all. If she wasn’t so forward and friendly it would definitely be a tad more difficult for her. That being said? Fiore was a definite change of pace; a touch warmer than she was used to but she wasn’t about to give up because of that.

But she had to take it at her own pace; which could seem a little manic to others; diving headfirst into a culture and people she didn’t entirely understand. Their towns and cities were set up in such a way that emulated longevity compared to what felt like a more nomadic lifestyle of a hunter or clansman. But that also meant that they had more apt resources in immediacy. Bars and taverns were more populous than what she was used to. While one would do in smaller locales she had the pick of the litter here.

But here in fiore the towering woman not only stood out in stature but in demeanor as well. She held herself in such a proud way that you’d wonder where she just had come from; her outgoing and friendly nature was quick to warm up those near her and that certainly helped the ‘human’ find a place where she could go or where she could be.

With this place being warmer than what she was used to Lucretia opted to keep her fur coat off, draping it over her shoulder so that her wrapped fur shirt and long leggings would do the most ‘legwork’ out of her outfit. She hadn’t the time to go get fitted for something more acclimated to this weather but that was something she’d tackle in the morning.

Right now? She was enjoying the third of what would no doubt be a long line of flagons. Sitting on a barstool and chatting the bartender up and down. Though… That wasn’t due to last for much longer. With the bar door opening a few heads turned; a murmur here or there. The ‘human’ woman turned her head to find a fiery haired individual she didn’t recognize. But she could see that they were of a different stock than those here. What with the wrapped tails, the ears… She hadn’t seen a kitsune in person before but she knew some of the stories. Her eyebrows raised and she’d take a small drink from her flagon.

This kitsune had someone with them; a blond tough looking man that Lucretia could already sort of gather what their relationship was like. Probably either an escort, friend or bodyguard. Or both. She had her money on the escort and bodyguard, maybe friend depending if they pulled up to take a drink with them.

With the focus of the kitsune on the fire the woman couldn’t help but look them over; her interest int he both of them was obvious and with a big grin she’d get off of her chair, flipping a coin onto the bar for payment of the flagons she had before trudging over.

”Don’t think I’ve seen such interesting folk in a long time. Name’s Lucretia, Hunter by trade. Care to share a tale or two by the fire?”

Lee was to lost into the fire remembering the old days back when things were simple. A rune knight. She thought she knew what she wanted and what victory felt like. Now she was face flat into defeat with a five year-old. Her mind wandered about her purpose now besides being a single mother. A voice broke the silence which caused her to stare up a sweet voice introducing herself. For once in her life, she was glad to talk to someone. Company was hard to come by for someone like her. With her only friend, best friend in fact, being gone now, who else did she have left to reminence on the good times?

Her fox ears perked straight up, giving away her emotion "Really? I wouldn't consider myself interesting at all. Though, I am not you. My name is Lee Nakamura and this is Liam Overby, a personal guard. Nice to meet you Lucretia. Why I don't mind if I do. It would be nice to talk to someone that's not a five year-old or a wall" she said. She gave a look to Liam, who broke eye contact. A small laughed came out of her as she smiled at the woman next to her. "I am a wizard by trade, dragon slayer actually. My speciality is fire. It's always been the very defintion of my personality. I might have a tale that would suit an adventurer. It's sorta dark, but exciting nonetheless. Care to hear?" She had one in mind that recently happened of how she founded her adopted daughter, Hikari, during some training.

Shifting her postured to become more comfortable and prepping herself, she waited for Lucretia's response. If the woman had agreed, she would begin. "This happened in Baska, a small sleeping town. I was training with my elder brother, Ryu. We smelled something horrible. It was a grusome smell like someone hadn't bathed in weeks with a mix of skunk spray and old sour milk. I thought I was going to gag. I told my brother we should check it out, might good training if it was a monster or some creature we could fight. When we got there...a camp had been ransacked. Tents torn, stuff everywhere. I won't go it detail about the bodies, but something had made then unrecognizeable. Then we noticed how quiet the forest was. I am sure as a hunter you know thats never a good sign," she paused. The imagine came into her head clearly. It still sends shivers down her spine. Hearing the creature know who they were made her even colder than snow or ice ever could.

"There stood this huge, massive creature. It looked like it's fur was made of sharp thick needle-like spikes with it's flesh looking like it was rotting away. The head...oh god the head...was an elk with two large antlers. It was a skull with large pointed teeth with hollowed eyes have two beady dots. When it saw us...it knew our names...wanting to kills us. I cannot get over that night. How...creepy it was. We defeated the creature as it nearly had my head multiple times. Kept...I have no idea what it was doing, but this thing kept trying to talk to me while trying to choke me. Once my brother hit it in the back of the neck, I burned it several times and it managed to escape. The goodness out of this encounter we founded a five year-old. A demi-human girl with long blonde hair and birhgt blue eyes. That girl became my daughter today. I hope that wasn't too dark, but had a happy ending. We did mange to find the creature and I seal it in this pendent right here. Creepy thing that was..." she explained. A visble shiver from her body made her finalize that it was an encouter that never would leave her mind. She wanted to ask the woman about her travels. Surely, as a hunter, it would be much more exciting on the hunter than doing simple measly jobs as a wizard.

[b]"You said you're a hunter? Tell me about what kind things you've encountered before? Any big game?" She asked with her body leaning forward on the chair. Her arm rested on the arm rest staring at the woman with interest. Lee was just happy to have someone to talk to in general.

Lucretia honestly had never met a kitsune before so of course her interest was a little more vested in that initially. But quickly she learned that who she was talking to was far more than any species could yield. Truth be told that was something she should consider in everyone and would definitely keep that to heart.

”Maybe to you who knows the ins and outs of your own story. Ah! Clan names; Right. Mine’s Wolfenstein. Pleasure to meet the both of you.”

Lucretia gave a wide grin and a nod of her head; downing about half of the flagon that she had with her. Hearing that the other was a wizard wasn’t a surprise but she nearly choked on her drink hearing that the one in front of her was a dragon slayer of all things. Those were rare in most aspects and Lucretia not only ran into one but ran into one on the first day of her being in another country! Talk about luck! And they were willing to share a story with her!

”A dragon slayer not being interesting would be a first! I’ve never met a wizard of your sort before. Fire wizards maybe but… A dragon slayer? Hoho… And sure! I don’t mind the dark tales; not everything can be sunshine and rainbows unfortunately.”

The woman’s smile didn’t waiver and she’d lean against the fireplace. Sipping at the remainder of what was in her flagon. She hadn’t been to this Baska before; but she’d have to make a mental note of where it was down the line if she ever got her hands on a map again. She could vividly imagine the other’s description; having dealt with most of those scents before. Lucretia kept her attention fully on Lee; tilting her head to one side as they described the scene…

”It’s certainly never a good sign… means a predator is around. Natural or not.”

Her brow rose slightly as the other continued on; a huge creature with thick spikes and rotting flesh. A large elk head with antlers… The hunter blinked and considered what type of monster this might be. She had heard tales of creatures just like this before around the campfire but had never dealt with them before.

”That creature sounds familiar; not so much the exact one but… I’ve heard of it’s Ilk but the name of it escapes me. It’s good you were able to defeat the creature. A daughter from fighting such a creature is certainly a good way to remember it and what they can do…”

Lucretia shook her head; she felt bad for this hunter’s adopted daughter. Losing their people to such a place. The ‘human’ adjusted a bit and noted that she was kind of low on this flagon; if she wanted to go get another drink she’d have to leave her companion for a moment but decided that she could stomach that without much of a problem.

”Mmm… Nothing really as interesting or as powerful as what you had to deal with no doubt. But my most recent game would have been a werewolf; large white hair with many many scars from all the fights it was in. Me and the band of hunters I traveled with before coming to this country were on a long spanning job of dealing with various monsters and creatures of the night. Mind you we’d never outright attack them if they were being hospidible but if they go feral or slaughter for sport we sometimes have no choice. ”

There was an ample amount of regret in that last part; like the hunter didn’t like the idea of having to do this but was left with the hard decision of letting something go or putting it down in a way.

”So we had been tracking this werewolf for a few years, a few close calls with it here and there. It always attacked villages and smaller towns so the larger ones never really paid it much heed. Up until it started attacking the larger settlements; often killing cattle and a few helping hands here or there. But the blood must have stirred it’s instincts, something fierce; it started to slaughter entire villages; not for food but for sport. So me and my group spent a good while tracking it; learning it’s habits. Trying to figure out it’s pattern; see where it would go next. Eventually we managed to figure out where it would go and managed to trap it in a small town using silver and other werewolf based traps.”

Lucretia’s expression when mentioning the silver was something akin to disgust; she’d even wave her free hand as if to ward off the stuff that wasn’t even present. Maybe she just had a general disdain for using it or maybe she thought it was a waste… who knew at this point!

”The fight with the beast was pretty damn nasty; it took out a few of my companions and gave me this scar right here-”

The woman would tap right above where the single claw scar went through one of her eyes. Thankfully not damaging the eye itself but it was obvious that it was a close call!

”But we fought it to a stand still; trapping it further into a building we were able to use to our advantage. Eventually it came down to just me and it. Many of my companions were too exhausted, too injured or just outright dead to assist me. It took a few hours of fighting but eventually I was able to put it down for good. Many creatures can’t survive without a heart and werewolves certainly fall under that category.”

Lucretia certainly felt like she didn’t need to share the fact that this particular werewolf was related to her. Many of the ones that she hunted were somehow that way; either distant cousins or the like. Maybe it was just the curse of her family to have to hunt itself into extinction or fate had a grim sense of humour…

”Many of the people up there were happy to get back to tilling their soil or raising their cattle without worry of wanton slaughter. Many of my companions took to the fields after a ‘final’ hunt but I’m not satisfied with it myself. Figure I can do more good the more I travel.”

Lucretia. She will remember that for sure. The woman had some vibes that reminded her of Judina, but more talkative. Maybe it was the approachable nature and how comfortable she felt for the first time in a long time. She had a wide grin, happy to hear any story by a nice fire. It was being now a comfort to talk about her adventures with someone else that wasn't a choatic entity, a literal wall, or innocent. She was amazed that she was also a slayer. This made Lee turn a little pink from embaressment. "Let's just say...I had a friend pull a few strings and helped me train with a dragon. They did some research and we went search...just by luck we found a dragon willing to teach me" she smiled.

That story was a weird one, but one that Lee never liked telling because of how embarrassing that was. Ragtime was not something she talked about on a daily basis with people who couldn't really understand he was a spirit. Not many do. Lucretia listened intent fully. She took in every word the kitsune had to say. Her face gave a thoughtful look mentioned about that was odd about the silence, but it was normal for any sign of a predator. The description of the creature seemed to sound familar and terrorized those in her village and nearby. Lee sighed. "That thing was actually a corrupted spirt. According to my sources, its a type of creature similar to that of the Wendigo, but it was once a deer spirit that was forced into a contract with a horrible person that corrupted the poor thing. I sealed it in this amulet" she spoke. Lee grew quiet for a little bit over deciding to listen to Lucretia. The woman had spoken how she hunt werewolves. Instantly, she thought of Raymus and grew a little nervous for him. Though, she assured it was only those who were stray or turned feral. It made sense to protect the innocent and the livestock. Though, killing werewolves did make her stomach churn a little. In her circumstances it was no choice. "Sounds like a rough life hunting monsters and creatures. You must of tough skin and be very skilled a tracking. At least your reasoning is a good one, most would just kill them in cold blood. I fear for them and any other fellow non-humans sometimes. I am glad you and those hunters were there to help protect those people though. Large govnerment and those higher up tend to not care about those below them. Something I have seen a pattern about" she replied.

She listened further. Her fox ears perked at a specific one that was killing for sport. It went to the smaller villages and settlements then the larger ones. She could understand the viewpoints of everyone involved except the werewolf in this story. The talk about how they took it down the grimance of the loss of a few of her comrades during the battle caused her to feel her pain. "Their death wasn't in vain. I...know how it feels to loose multiple people and feeling as if it was your own fault. At least, the werewolf is no more and not hurting the livestock or anyone else" she assured her.

"Redeeming your actions or trying to help those in needs is something that not many do. There are so many problems and so little done about them. Take the racisim. Here in Fiore it's quite strong. I have been human once before I found out I as half-kitsune. Though, my true form was sealed with powerful seals and magics. I experienced what it was like being human and now being demi-human and neko different aspects of my life were changed. I am treated like a alien even in my own guild. I love Blue Pegasus, but there is a huge problem. I have friends, good friends, who feel the same way. Werewolves, elves, demi-humans...we need a place to call our own. That's what I am creating. A guild, a place for people to join together and be safe. Provide to those who need a start or place to stay. It's going to be a lot of work, but I know I can do it. You can find out what you need and do, you just gotta follow your own path. Not what someone else has set for you" she smiled.

Lucretia was more than friendly to most of those that she found; she had no reason not to be. Even if someone stabbed her in the back she’d likely give them a second chance. She’d shift against the wall hearing that the other had the luck to find such a creature to teach them the fire dragon slayer arts. Something that lucretia honestly was curious about now that the other spoke about it. She hardly doubted her own ability to get that lucky. Seeing the other’s blush the ‘human’ couldn’t help but chuckle.

”Well luck is certainly on your side. In one way or another.”

Hearing that this creature was a corrupted spirit brought a painful look onto Lucretia’s face. Honestly what she knew about spirits was trivial compared to most but she did know that there was some genuinely peaceful ones out there… and hearing that this one was corrupted by the actions of another made Lucretia a bit frustrated. The woman’s eyes eased down to the amulet and she’d consider it for a few moments…

”Any idea how to root out the corruption and get the spirit back to normal? Or is that the next gameplan for the poor soul?”

Lucretia didn’t particularly enjoy her work; she knew it needed to be done and there were other instances of where she would gladly follow suit with another type of it if need be. She’d sigh and shake her head slowly at hearing that others would just so much as kill them for simply existing.

”Fairly tough yes and good at picking up signs. My own type of luck I suppose. I don’t see the harm in letting them be if they’re peaceful and just want to live out their lives or even be adventurers. They can do a lot of good for the world. Yeah. It’s not a surprise; a lot of the larger cities kept their gates shut to wait out various menaces.”

Lucretia couldn’t help but give a small shrug there; she couldn’t fight every government or change their minds but she would do her best to help the people they ignored.

”They received a proper send off and I know their spirits are content with what they did. Knowing a few of them they probably would have liked to at least get some more ale before going heh.”

Lucretia snickered a little bit and finished her flagon completely with that statement. Hearing that the racism in Fiore was quite strong made her pause; maybe because she was a human she didn’t really see it properly.. But she could imagine that being a demi-human was rough. Hearing about blue pegasus and how they reacted to demi humans made Lucretia sigh.

”I mean you’re not that different from humans; sure you might look different but yah got your own dreams and goals just like everyone else. But that does seem like… a pretty good goal and option for you or.. Well for those you have it in mind for ahah.”

She was glad that Lee was at least the sort to have a gameplan or at least wanted to make somewhere where people wouldn’t be judged for just being them. The woman folded her arms and hummed a bit.

”Gonna try to get it going here in fiore?”

Lee wanted to tell her about Ragtime, but she was hesitant on if she would believe her or not. Many thought it was farfetched to even believe. Though, she would remain quiet for now. Only one person knew about Ragtime and she was passed now. Only her daughter could sense and see Ragtime, though only being five years old. Though, Lee cracked a little. Ragtime could careless either way since it would provide more room to embaress Lee. "Well, it was less luck and more about connections. Let's just say...I had a help of another spirit that's NOT corrupted, but more so...chaotic and really is a huge prankster. Though, I love him to bits and he looks out for my well-being, his name is Ragtime" she smiled. Ragtime chuckled a little, no harm in that right?

Lee's face turned to one of surprised, a little. She noticed how Lucretia knew about spirits and how much she believed her about this corrupted spirit. Maybe there are people who would believe that Ragtime was real and not a figment of her imagination. As much as Ragtime tried, she knew better. "According to my sources, it's hard to redeem a corrupted spirit. Espcially, this one that is so far corrupted. I am going to try to help him, but every night I hear its painful calls in my sleep. It's begging to help me and it feels of my negative emotions. As much as Ragtime tries to help, there are certain things that he cant perform. There is a way, but I am going to need some sort of stones or gems or something. Ragtime is trying to check" she explained.

Liam came over with drinks, which took longer than she had really thought. Instantly, he froze as his eyes turned from a blue to a slight darker shade of blue. The body froze, dropping the drinks on the floor. Lee's eyes widen and a long, dreadful groan came from her. "Oh dear gods....not again. Ragtime..." she growled. Liam's body was now in control of Ragtime. He gave a playful grin and cleaned up the mess and gave Lee what was left of the drink. "For you my lady. Sorry I dropped the drinks, it was...the slip of my buttery fingers" he grinned. Lee hit him on the arm.

Ragtime bowed to Lucretia, now completely embaressing Lee with being a dork. She hated being the center of attention, but what she hated more was Ragtime being a little shit. "The name is Ragtime, a spirit of the chaotic nature. I make sure this foxy lady stays out of trouble. To explain, I can take over Liam's body since he is..weakly minded and Lee's. Though, Lee's mind is a little bit more complex. I am a contracted spirit. I do her favors and she entertains me, so a win, win for both of us" he explained. Lee was already having enough of it, rubbing her temples with her fingers. Once Ragtime wsd done talking, she cleared her throat. "The adults are talking, Ragtime. Now go slither away and find something else to do" she hissed. Ragtime stuck his tongue out and walked away.

"I am sorry about him. He really only does that when I mention him to others. I am just glad you have a concept of how spirits work in some case. Anyways, back to the subject, your luck is more skill in my perspective. You are a hunter which hones your skills in tracking and knowing the local wildlife" she gave. Lee was very knowledge about when it came to people and how they functioned. Afterall, all that people watching was surely helpful. "We both share the same goals only different aspects and ways to go about it. Are you wanting to do the same thing here in Fiore? I think you may find something here to fit your stature. I know there are a few hunting jobs always around with Wyverns and a few feral werewolves, but then again, I dont pay attention sometimes due to family issues at the given moment" she explained.

She listened to Lucretia's viewpoint and comment. It made her heart swell up inside a little bit. She respected this woman already for her viewpoints on the situation. It was rare for Lee to like someone or enjoy their company right off the bat. Raymus was the few that achieved that goal as well as Judina or Atani. "You are not wrong. Though, not all humans see it that way. Some may thing that werewolves are always bad and just monsters. Though, that's not true. They're living breathing creatures. Elves on the other hand, they are shunned for have a totally different culture. Half-elves are the in-between where niether elves nor humans accepted them since they are hybrids. I try to understand everything. I wish people were like you, see people for who they are. We all have emotions, issues, goals and dreams" she explained.

Lee leaned back into her chair and gave it a thought when she asked if this was going to be in Fiore. She couldn't think of anywhere better. Her family was here, so were her friends. Fiore was her home, even if she was half Joyan. "Well, I do call this place home. So why not? I appreicate your viewpoint. Already ou have my respect, which is hard to get on first impression. I will buy the next round drinks, on me" she smiled. She put several septiems in Ragtime's hands as he went to be a servant for a few minutes.

Hearing that the other woman had managed to get help not only from someone else but another spirit in this regards brought Lucretia’s eyebrows from their resting position to that of a rather impressed raised one. She’d shift a bit and stare at the kitsune for a few long moments; just how much luck did one person have?

”Talk about luck in that regard; not everyone gets to interact with spirits on such a regular basis.”

Lucretia couldn’t help but wonder just how all of this lined up; this must have made for a very interesting over all story and a lot of experience in just one person. She’d listen quietly as the other spoke. It was difficult to redeem a corrupted spirit and one that was so far corrupted. Hearing the little bit of information that the other had Lucretia rubbed at her chin…

”Doing the right thing is never easy, so I wish you luck in that regard and if I happen across anything that could be helpful to this situation I’ll be sure to get in touch with you. It’s not fair to this spirit to be in this situation. At least he’s trying to help you though.”

Sure lucretia was a hunter… but peaceful creatures and spirits didn’t fall under what she went after. She was the sort of woman that would leave them be or even help them if they needed it. She felt a touch out of sorts in regards to this but… That was when Liam dropped the mugs causing Lucretia to blink and push off of the wall. Though it seemed that this was a common happenstance of her companion getting taken over by Ragtime. She had to wonder what that felt like. With the bow given to her Lucretia would give a small nod to him.

”Nice to meet you Ragtime.”

Lucretia managed a small chuckle; the explanation of what he was and what he did was something that brought several rapidfire thoughts to Lucretia’s mind. Her eyes turning a bit thoughtful and she’d glance at Lee as she told Ragtime off…

”A contracted spirit huh? That explains a little bit…”

Honestly Lucretia didn’t know as much as she would have liked about spirits; her travels and focus were on things a little more material. But maybe the woman would have to expand her knowledge to help in other regards too.

”It's a limited amount of knowledge I assure you.”

Lucretia sighed softly and gave a small shake of her head; definitely limited. But with the conversation shifting back to their prior subject? Lucretia rubbed the back of her neck. Lee certainly wasn’t wrong in that regard. But it did make her wonder what the other went after themselves. Hunters focused on different things after all!

”I am yes. My old group never really went beyond the north. But if there are feral werewolves running around I could probably track them down fairly quick. I’m not sure how… effective I’d be against wyverns. I’d have to read up about them and see what type it was. And you’re good, I can just go check postings from a local or something.”

Lucretia waved her hand somewhat dismissively; a smile on her face. She didn’t expect someone to know everything going on and honestly lee had been nothing but friendly and she figured they would have helped if they knew. That was the sort of vibe that Lucretia got from them given the entire situation with the daughter, the spirit… and ragtime. Not to mention the whole bit with wanting to give others a place that creatures and people such as this could call home.

”It’ll take a little bit of time before people can change their views and ways; but even one voice can help with that. I think that it’s a good idea to pursue it and I bet that you’ll have plenty of folks wanting or asking to join. I’ve never met an elf or half elf come to think of it… Bet they’d have some interesting tales to share.”

Lucretia nodded her head and gave a knowing smile at that last part that Lee spoke up about; Lucretia hoped that her dreams and goals would come to fruition. Especially with this place to call home and that spirit!

With the other calling Fiore home already it would make sense that she wanted to make it here. She’d nod her head and grin; it’d be a rough start but she could see it going really well. Lucretia found herself chuckling a bit at the whole respect thing.

”All right all right, I can hardly say no to a round of drinks. But it’s a good thing that you already have a place in mind. At least country wise… And hah, I’m just being honest is all. But I appreciate the sentiment.”

Honestly past that Lucretia wasn’t sure what to say in that regard; she hoped that the other could feel that Lucretia felt the same way. Not many were open about this sort of thing and not many would share such in depth with her on the first meeting.

”I appreciate honesty and straightforwardness; so you can already bet you have my respect in that regard. Even more so with how much you want to help others. In a world that sometimes feels like it’s ripping itself apart it’s nice to see someone trying to put a little bit back together.”

Ragtime smirked as he walked away. Already, she was embaressed by her spiritual companion. "Redeeming a corrupted spirit is going to take a while. I am going to try, if not...I will try to find a way to put him out of his painful existence. It would be best if I try to find a way to redeem him" she replied. She shifted in her seat a little looking at her amulet. It's ruby eyes shimmered in the light of the fire. The metal grew a orange-yellow with the chrome finish almost gave it a mirror image. Ragtime controlled Liam's body to grew closer as he heard he was a contracted spirit. He tilted his head a little.

"Have you had past experience with spirits in your line of work by any chance? It seems you have quite a bit of knowledge unlike most people" he asked. Ragtime grew an interest with the woman. This did make Lee question how much she knew. It didn't make her suspicious of the woman, but more of geninune curosity like a cat. Her foxs ears twitched with interest. She listened to Lucretia explain about her knowledge. Lee already knew it would take a lot of convincg to change people's minds. Though, if she could provide a safe place for those in need. She most definately could make a difference a a few lives at least. Lee, also, wanted a safe place for her daughter to grow up in.

"Not only that, I am really wanting a place where I could also belong to. I really miss having a place that I fit in to. I once knew how that felt, but in my current status, I do not feel that way. I really needed to create something of my own since I noticed a problem with a few of my guildmates" she smiled. Lee liked being honest with those she respected. Lucretia seemed to appreciate the honesty that Lee spoken of. They were already on a mutual understanding about each other's goals and stories. "After being lied to multiple times in my life, I value honesty a lot in order to gain trust with someone. You've already proven just that. I wished all people thought like you did. Simple yet optimistic. You tell how it is and that is a valueable trait to have. This world is big and so many people. Yet, I feel so small with only having one or two friends, but that's rare for me to talk to them" she spoke. She got up from the seat and guided the hunter to the bar. There were all sorts of drinks to choose from. Lee liked vodka, tasteless yet could be added to anything. Something fruity and tart was what her taste buds were thinking. She thought for a moment before deciding. "I will take a sunrise, please. Whatever she orders, put it on my tab" she said. LeeAnn placed several jewels on the counter to pay for the drinks. Money was at least never an issue for LeeAnn since her family was well off and she knew how to save money.

"Lucretia, you and I should do this on a regular basis. I don't get out much now with having a daughter and building a literally guild possibly. These days, any interaction is good for me" she smiled. She leaned against the counter as the bartender slid her a sunrise mixed with orange and mango juice and vodka.

”I bet you’ll find a way; if he can be corrupted he can be purified.”

Lucretia felt that could be said of everyone; the woman glanced down at the amulet around the same time that Lee did. Though she had to wonder what kind of spirit it was before the corruption. Or at least how it acted. She never properly dealt with spirits; only ever really reading about them or hearing about them from her parents while they worked on making her the next ‘clan leader’. She hated that type of grooming but alas that never came to be. With ragtime’s query the woman turned her head to look at them; the same question applied there. She had to wonder what they looked like or what their story was like.

”Not traditionally no. But the few bits of literature and my father’s stories I can generally understand how things are supposed to work. It’s not as in depth since to me spirits never struck me as something that would just go out and hurt people. And if they did you’d hear about it more often. Even you seem to be a case of ‘playful’ rather than harmful.”

Lucretia gave a small shrug; offering a somewhat apologetic smile to the spirit controlled human. Turning her attention back to Lee who now was talking about how she wanted a place to fit in and how she felt around her guildmates. There was a twinge of sadness and she’d sigh.

”Spose that’s just how things go, I’m not entirely familiar with guilds truth be told. But being able to call people your friends or family in them must be important and if you don’t feel like you fit in it’s not a bad thing that you want to leave.”

Seeing that smile Lucretia couldn’t help but share it. Folding her arms and tilting her head to one side. So they valued honesty? They’d get pretty much nothing but that from the woman! She’d give a small shrug; keeping that honest smile…

”Well I don’t like lying to people, makes it complicated. No real point in it yanno? Well you can count me among that number I reckon.”

Lucretia gave a small waggle of her finger before following after the other. Taking a seat and mulling over what she would want. Maybe more mead? Or something more local? Giving a considerate huff she’d go ahead and order what she had before…

”Another flagon of mead please~”

The woman would take the offered flagon after the bartender filled it up, happy to have another drink Lucretia would pause in taking it in. Raising a brow at hearing that offer to do this more often.

”Well I wouldn’t mind it, hanging out with someone and chatting about what we like doing and what we want to do doesn’t really strike me as a problem. Can even bring your friend here. I can get that though; but it’s a good sort of busy I figure.”

Of course Lucretia meant that for both Liam and ragtime… Even if Lee wanted to bring their daughter she figured that she wouldn’t have a problem there! She’d give a small chuckle; taking a long draught of that mead…

”So what do you think you’re gonna name it? The guild I mean.”

She sat there with her sunrise. The taste was fruity without the hint any taste of alcohol. That's how she liked it. Ragtime leaned against the counter looking at Lucretia. His eyes turned to true darkness before saying anything. He knew she didn't know much, but he did. Lee knew a bit more because of Ragtime, but nothing more than Lucretia probably did. "Spirits come in a variety of things. What mortals don't know about is we live to tell the tale, but we don't. When they find out, its too late. Nobody lives to tell the tale. Demons and spirits are basically the same thing only different names and origins. Dark spirits were once peaceful and loving they were corrupted by power or a force contract. Many roam the plains looking for victims while others want they days to end. Caspien, the spirit Lee saved, is not exception. If she continues on, he will try to corrupt her as well or feed off her negative emotions" he revealed. There was no kidding in his eyes. He had already seen it's effects making her feel slightly unsure of herself.

"I see. You've..never told me" she whispered. Ragtime simply grew darker with his eye color and refused to look at her. He did not want to tell her outright fearing she might get upset and make it worse for her. "Ragtime? Aren't you gonna say anything" she asked. "I feared if I told you, it may make things worse for you. You've already got enough stress. I couldn't add more besides....I am still trying to figure out what to do" he whispered. He pushsed himself off the counter. Internally, he needed some air away from the situation. He regretted even mentioning it to the two of them. "I am going to get some fresh air. Sorry for making things awkward, I think I need to give you two space" he mentioned. He walked outside the bar and left. This left Lee kinda confused.

"That's unlike him. Weird. Now he's got me worried. Someone as sparatic as him never gets serious to the point it upsets him. Think its best to give him his space" she explained. Lee was still trying to understand their relationship as spirit and host. They were contracted, but they both created a bond since the incident. Lee took another drink. The conversation grew to more lighthearted. She dismissed what Ragtime had said for the time being. Her mood wasn't phase as much as she had thought. "Lucretia, this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship. Consider me as a personal connection. Ring me up if you have any questions, concerns, or want to swap stories. I am willing to help you. I have never been this vulnerable with someone in such as long time. It's kinda refreshing" she smiled.

She laughed a little and took another sip of her drink. Probably she could bring Atani or Raymus. Thought about Manzo even crossing her mind made her dread even the thought. That relationship was...complicated. Pushing those thoughts into the back of her mind, she turned her head as Lucreatia asked what kind of name she thought of the guild. This made LeeAnn paused. She stared at the woman beside her with clueless eyes then at her drink. "I...never thought about that. Maybe something with wolves. For some reason, I've always been so intersted with wolves plus...my family crest has a wolf on it. I feel like wolves explain how I am. So loyal and protective over close friends and family. Once you have my loyalty and trust, I would do anything to protect them even if it meant dying" she smiled.

She stared at her glass full of her drink. Taking another sip of her drink, she swirled it taking in her own thoughts. Another thought crossed her mind then struck her a little bit. What if Astrid was keeping her in the dark hiding something from her? Would her cousin do that? No, of course not. Maybe she is being forced? Did Solomon find them? Liam stood up, Ragtime cleared his control of over the poor soul. He noticed her tense up a little. "I would do anything to protect them. Thank you for reminding me of my place in this world. I need to get home! If you ever need me, I will be in Hargeon. Ring up the Nakamura family and tell them LeeAnn sent you. I am sorry to cut this short, Lucretia. I really need to get home. I have a feeling something happened" she spoke.

Liam paid for Lucretia's next round of drinks as an apology with LeeAnn rushing out. Before leaving, she wrote down her address where the Nakamura Manor was located. There was so much she wanted to talk about, but her family was in her need right now. Actually, she needed her family more than they needed her. Either way they would be happy to see her. Though, Astrid would probably chew her ear off for not listening to her.

-exit-

Hearing that spirits came in a variety didn’t really surprise her; there were all sorts of different people so why would spirits be an exception? The woman rubbed at her chin and stared at ragtime as he explained out things. So when corrupted they would be a lot more destructive which meant… well they needed to be stopped in one way or another and if it wasn’t the spirits fault the woman saw no reason to destroy the spirit. Rather she would want to do what lee was with the one she had in her amulet.

”I see. So it’d pay to be careful when dealing with a corrupt spirit in both a sealed and active form. Tch.”

She’d glance at Lee who seemed to be a little surprised on the matter with ragtime’s information. The woman sighed and gave a small shrug; watching the other leave after a few moments. Hearing that this was unlike ragtime… well spirits were like people and kept to a personality right?

”Spose that means you should take him seriously then. Good information though. I’m not about to chase after him after an explanation like that.”

Hearing the other call this the start of a beautiful friendship made lucretia laugh a bit; the woman enjoying the drink she picked out and would give a small ‘toast’ as it were to lee.

”Anytime, I’ll make sure to come to you don’t worry. I appreciate the offer and you can be that goes both ways.”

While she highly doubted that any information Lucretia had would be unknown to lee she also felt like… Well She felt like Lee could find answers easily enough; even if she didn’t know a lot about the woman there was that air of certainty she felt around them. She’d pop an eyebrow up about the guild name and it having something to do with wolves. Giving a grin she’d take about half of what was in her flagon.

”Seems fitting, I’d say something relevant to pack or the like but that’s just me. I bet you’ll figure out something!”

The woman was a bit startled at the other deciding that they needed to go. The woman gave a small bow of her head and watched the pair hurry off. She wondered just a bit what was going on with the other. Maybe something did happen or it was just one of those things people with good access to magic could feel.

”You’re good Lee, it was a pleasure meeting you! I won’t be a stranger.”

She’d watch them leave and turn back to her drink, content to just relax and take her time with the next round as it was a limited bit… Though it’d be much later before Lucretia herself left the tavern. Rosey cheeks and a fire in her heart for her work.

”Time to get started.”

-Exit-