Several days -approximately a week- had past since the events of the Arena and 'interview' which had turned out to be more of a demonstration than anything. Originally there were a few questions that Altyre had wanted to ask Kaji but after tasting the man's flames, he realized something. It was like peering into Kaji's heart or seeing his true self that he didn't show to anyone else and it was more personal than any question he could've possibly asked him. Tyr was an assassin. He killed people for a living. That was his job. But despite that, he managed to keep his inner-self in tact.

Killing was his job and yet he hated it while he loved it. There was nothing more detestable to him that taking another person's life unless they deserved it, which is why he set up his own rules. After graduating from the Vatican -a small cult of elite assassins- he cut ties with them immediately. A practice which was considered taboo. The Vatican was a Brotherhood, and if you renounced the Brotherhood then you were a traitor and you were suppose to be hunted down and eliminated.

That was exactly what was suppose to have happened to the firebender except, no one had been able to successfully kill him. He'd had six run-ins with Vatican assassins, some new others experienced, and he'd disposed of all of them. Since the Vatican kept a small number in the Brotherhood they'd probably decided that as long as he didn't prove to be a liability and start telling secrets they'd leave him be since they couldn't get rid of him.

That didn't mean that the man still didn't sleep light. He was used to that life now. When Altyre was barely two years old, his home island of Xandis was destroyed in a territorial war between the two larger neighboring countries, Vashnir and Selmas. His life had been spared by the man who raised him from then on, Terran. Terran at this time was already a senior member of the Vatican. He saw potential in a young island boy, though the firebender still didn't know what he was getting into at the time. He still remembered the sight of those flames burning down their homes and the screams of his family and friends dying. It surprised him that he did, but somehow he did.

Terran took him from his home and they moved to Bierdt where he secretly trained him to become a part of the Brotherhood. While they were there, he was introduced to his best friends Novarre and Sylph. He played with them during his down time and as the years passed he grew to love them almost as siblings, but when he turned thirteen, Terran packed them up and they moved to the Vatican Headquarters for him to begin his apprenticeship during real missions. Altyre hadn't seen either of them since then.

When an apprentice of the Vatican turned eighteen, they graduated from apprenticeship no matter what the skill level. After that, people were simply replaced as needed. It was the way they worked. The Vatican was the most revered assassin's guild in the entire world and there were very few of them. It was a well known fact -to interested parties- that they were all extremely efficient at their job. They were also so mysterious that to common folk they were more of a myth than real since no one knew what they looked like and none of their targets lived to tell.

It was thanks to these little facts that the firebender had managed to keep himself hidden. All members of the Vatican had the same tattoo somewhere on their body, it was the only proof that the Brotherhood really existed and it was a secret to all but very few people outside of the guild. An Apprentice gets tattooed on the day that they graduate to the rank of Shade at eighteen. Altyre had chosen to receive his brand on his right shoulder. The tattoo looked like a sun with an elaborate V on the inside. This was the only way to know if someone was really from the Vatican. Rhamiria hadn't asked for proof but then again Altyre never claimed to be from the Brotherhood.

Yesterday, the islander had sent a letter out by courier to be delivered to Rhamiria requesting an audience with her so that they could discuss the job offer that she'd given him a week ago. It had taken him a long time to come to a decision. Since then, he'd spent time with Sylph, meeting her for lunch or dinner on occasion and even Kiril whom proved to be quite the inquisitive scholar. Though he only seemed to be interested in bending, and firebending in particular at the moment.

Amazingly, Kiril seemed surprised at how mature the male could be which was weird to Altyre considering that they were the same age. But the most surprising thing about the few times that they'd spoken was the fact that they got along, and well at that. Both of them had a thirst for knowledge and they both wanted to constantly become stronger. It was a trait that they both secretly admired within one another.

But now wasn't time to reminisce, he was expecting a very important guest here in a bit. His room was the best place to do this, because no one would intrude and it was far away from the Imperial Guard or any prying ears.

Rhamiria had been nervously awaiting a reply from the assassin now for a week. Terrified that perhaps her incentive wasn't enough to persuade the male to rid herself of perhaps the two most powerful benders of the city, she began to wonder if perhaps the male had chosen to go and squeal to the guards of her technical betrayal. She was a bitter woman, craving really only power since her bending skills weren't exactly a showcase for her. She had succeeded in the years to gain quite a bit of control within the council, forcing members to side with her either through persuasion of various sorts or down right threats and blackmail. The only member supports that eluded her were ones that had sided with the infuriating imperial guard head.

She had done her best when he was first appointed to weasel him under her thumb, as she had his predecessor, but found the male unwilling to subject himself to such a thing. His actions and refusal had led some of the other council members to detach themselves from the woman and oppose her as he had. To her, Kaji was her biggest political threat as well as thorn in her side, and she wished for him to be removed altogether, hence her seeking out the fire bender Altyre when Alkaid proved to be incapable.

Kiril on the other hand just completely terrified her altogether after his display of blood bending. With him being the arena champion the common 'trash', as she felt all others were beneath her, supported the bender and herald him as their champion as well. With tensions in the air with the people she was in fear that if they revolted the bender would come after her. Fear had pushed her decision to have him eliminated.

She had heard underground rumors of a fire bender assassin that had a rather impressive track record going for him. She had sent assassins before after the red haired male, but thus far her efforts had failed. It seemed one run in with the guard would dissuade many of his pursuers which simply upset her even more. This one however she felt could be promising, however after not receiving word for him after so long she wondered if perhaps the same had happened.

She had been glancing over her shoulder for days, afraid that if she let her own guard down either a guard or the assassin himself would come after the weak air bending woman, perhaps persuaded to instead target her. Her paranoia grew on an almost daily basis, causing her to suggest a variety of laws within the council to try and keep her at least safe. Thus far she met her usual opposition and was having difficulties having even one of them passed, but she figured that she would still weasel her way into getting at least a few of them passed.

She did manage to receive a great delight as the day after the match the red haired guard had been called in to see the council. At her insistence with a law that she had passed a few years ago the fire bender was to be punished for not ensuring the safety of one of his subordinates, who was now in a hospital and had almost lost his life. To her further delight the male didn't pose much of an argument, after all he couldn't deny that Alkaid hadn't been in a life threatening state nor that he wasn't in a hospital slowly recovering. She tried to push for the death penalty, after all if her hopeful hire wasn't going to do the job perhaps she could and at least get rid of one of the two benders, however that failed utterly. When it was denied though she did manage to convince the council to administrative punishment. If she couldn't kill the guard at least she could physically weaken him enough to where it would take a few days of recovery for him, if he got the rest that was needed with it, which she would ensure personally he didn't. Perhaps if she pushed it long enough until Alkaid was recovered she could have the earth bender dispose of him.

Throughout the week she had held true to her unsaid promise, claiming that on top of his own duties Kaji would need to perform Alkaid's as well, despite his freshly made back injuries. He had been flogged almost ruthlessly at her request and was to be denied treatment from a water bender or any medical personnel for at least three days, so he could at least feel a taste of the torture he had put his 'poor subordinate' through.

As the week came to a close she finally received word from her hopefully hired assassin, stating that they needed to have a discussion about the job. The flamboyant woman hoped that he had decided to take the job, and if not perhaps she could persuade him in other ways. Naturally she tried to keep careful watch over Altyre, and received constant reports of him being seen with a blue haired and fair skinned air bender woman. At times he seemed as a flirt, and she hoped to use that to her advantage. Her mind had chosen to twist the idea of them being friends and instead labeled the woman as someone for him to fool around with while he was here. Hell if another air bender could do it why couldn't she? It didn't seem hard to do with some of the council men after all so perhaps she could use the same method with him if it came down to it, as she was rather unaware of Altyre's and Sylph's true nature with one another. As other reports soon came in stating that occasionally one of the intended targets would tag along with the two, her mind labeled Sylph as a 'working lady' for the males. Perhaps if the assassin fell through she could use the air bender as well to help persuade him otherwise. She was a 'fellow air bender' after all so she assumed the girl would be willing to assist her, as she was unaware of the light haired bender's true relation with the males.

Dressing in her best gown, a sapphire colored long dressed that was lined with silver and held shimmering silver designs of air with a matching blue cloak that she hoped would conceal her identity, when she put the hood up and went to the Wolf Inn, where the meeting was to occur. Her shoes were high heeled, perhaps not good for running but she felt they matched her dull blue colored eyes beautifully and made them 'pop out' more. She had taken the time to do her hair in an up do that no one but her would find attractive as it looped and twisted here and there to form a slightly curled tower of hair. She applied thick coats of make up, mainly in an effort to conceal her age and make her look younger, but in truth she simply looked like a painted whore in the eyes of most. When she was done 'beautifying' herself, least she needed to 'sell' herself to her potential assassin, she began making the journey towards her destination.

It took the council woman awhile to arrive at her destination, after all it wasn't as if she could drive her elaborate vehicle as it would cause way too much attention. No she had to walk the way, keeping her hood up so as not to be recognized by the 'common folk' even though her clothing screamed aristocrat. Her shoes really weren't designed for the trip, and by the time she arrived her feet were hurting in their torturous plastic and leather confines. They may have been made of the highest quality, but that didn't mean they were designed to be comfortable. She was almost relieved to arrive at her destination, and yet a sense of dread welled up within her as she climbed the stairs to the room she had visited only a week ago. Thoughts of what if he was going to kill her, or not take the job, rushed through her mind. She hadn't brought along any guards or escorts, after all this was suppose to be in secret, so there was no one really to protect her. 'I'm too important, he wouldn't kill me' she thought to herself with as much determination as she could muster. She was the high council woman Rhamiria, no one would dare to try and harm her. As she knocked on the wooden door, she wondered how true those words would really be.

Minutes ago, Altyre had asked that hot tea be delivered to his room and it had arrived just before he received the knock that he'd been expecting. Opening the door he set his crimson gaze on a woman clad in sapphire colored clothing and hooded. Moving to the side he extended a hand to the table where the tea set was already set out, freshly prepared. "I'm glad you decided to come," he said finally after he'd closed and locked his door and taken a seat across from the woman.

She had caked on her make-up and looked more like a whore than a councilwoman but he suspected why she'd done that and unfortunately it wouldn't work. You weren't allowed to love or have physical attachments when being involved with the Vatican so he'd been trained harshly to resist woman wiles, but to be seductive and flirtatious himself. Despite being trained to be that way, no assassin was trained to be sexually promiscuous within the Order. They preached that it could be just as beneficial as it was harmful so that tactic was only used at the assassin's discretion after they became a Shade.

After a moment, he poured them both a cup of the fresh cinnamon apple tea then tied his hair up with several strands of his own dreads, exposing the multiple ear piercings that he had. Taking a slight sip of the hot and heavily sweetened tea, the firebender smiled, "So, how have you been this week Milady?" They'd start off with pleasantries so that he could read her mood and emotional state before they got down to business. He needed to know how to expect her to react. This was the easiest way to predict behavior and protect yourself as an assassin. She could possibly have a weapon concealed on her person, but her airbending skills wouldn't help her if she could bend at all.

He had a few questions for her, and he would reveal some secrets of his own about her, and they would move on from there. This conversation would flow at his bidding. Right now she was in his domain, and at his mercy, whether or not she wished to accept that fact was entirely up to her. "Oh and you look fabulous by the way. I love the outfit and what you've done with your hair. It has a subtle charm all on its own," he lied with a sincere smile.

Rhamiria carefully stepped into the room that had clearly been the male's since he checked in. "Of course I would come when business would be involved" she replied curtly. Spying the tea set with her dim colored eyes her suspicion and paranoia set in again. 'Could be poisoned if he chooses to refuse the job...' she thought nervously to herself. She knew his face and his profession, a leverage that she deduced wouldn't help her much if he chose to kill her right then and there, and given his reputation she figured he could easily. Her bending wasn't of much use, especially in such an enclosed area, limiting the air flow. She couldn't create her own wind, as Sylph somewhat could, she had to entirely rely on nature to provide it for her. She had brought a small dagger, stashed on her hip, however it wouldn't help her much either and she knew it. Rather she had it merely with her for the false sense of security it gave her.

On guard and slightly on edge she took her seat though declined the cup, as her suspicions still held strong with her, at least until she was certain whether or not he would accept her job offer. Her suspicions rose higher with each word that came from his mouth as he inquired about her week. Was he trying to dig up dirt for black mail? Would her answer have any influence on his? Unnecessary questions like these raced through her paranoid mind like a race car on a race track. In truth as well she didn't wish to converse in pleasantries, she much rather preferred to get down straight to business, but then she had learned from her previous visit to tread lightly with Altyre. If something were to happen though she would at least try to shield herself behind the information her scouts had given her, even if it wasn't much.

"The same as any other annoying week. Full of imbeciles and fools who hesitate more then they should when it comes to the concerns of the country and its people" she stated, attempting to play her 'concern only for the people and country role'. Perhaps if she made herself out to be a noble champion of justice it would help her persuade the dark skinned male, even if it was a pure lie. She out for herself and no one else, and it didn't matter to her who suffered so long as she got her way. "Shall I presume you've enjoyed your stay thus far in Einheit?" she inquired, feeling perhaps it better to play along rather then say something that could get her killed. She realized after her first visit she had been relatively lucky, and were it not for the fact she had offered a job she probably would have ended up dead.

Receiving the compliment on her appearance she unconsciously did a quick preening of herself, and gloated in the praise. "Yes well I try to always look my best. As a council woman you have to. I will say your own appearance is rather...interesting" she replied giving a shot at a compliment that held no real sincerity to it as a fake smile accompanied it.

"Of course," he replied promptly. She seemed on edge in his presence, something he was entirely accustomed to, but not something he really wanted unless it had to be that way. "Relax councilwoman, I mean you no harm, I promise," and he offered her the cup once more after he had taken a sip from the tea. "I just had this brought up moments before you arrived. I'm not going to poison you. You've done nothing to deserve a death by my hands," he reassured her sincerely.

Altyre laughed lightly at the woman's fake frustrations, "Ah, so what is it that this country needs," he asked before taking another sip from his tea. He smiled when the woman asked about how he was enjoying his stay, "I've enjoyed it quite a bit, but you already know that of course. Your eyes aren't very subtle." The male kept a calm and collected smile about him but his eyes were all business even if they were exchanging pleasantries for no real reason to her. He knew full well that she'd be keeping an eye on him ever since she contacted him, but he knew how to ignore the fact that he was being followed. And there was no need to do anything so long as his life wasn't in danger. He was the threat. Not her.

"Well I suppose you're ready to talk business, so lets get down to it." Crossing his right leg over his left and finishing his cup of tea his features turned serious, "I want to know why you really want those two killed. Neither of them seem to have anything seriously against you and I've scouted them out, so what reason do you have to eliminate those two men?" Her answer would probably decide whether or not he actually took the job though he was highly inclined to decline.

The council woman eyed the cup once more. She was skeptical even after he had taken a sip from the tea and his words didn't exactly reassure her. "And how many others have you told the same words to exactly? I'm really not that thirsty" she declined again with high suspicions. She felt as if she was in a wolf's den, staring at the eyes of a hungry wolf. To her the most precious thing she had, other then her wealth and title, was her own life and she wasn't willing to give that up just yet. Her mind continued to remain in rather high alert, registering signs of possible dangers that didn't really exist. Perhaps coming to this man wasn't such a great idea, at least not alone.

"What this country needs is order and security. It seems throughout the years things have become lax and laid back. Dangers have filtered into the city that need dealt with, and it seems no one is willing to do a thing about it. I plan on changing that" the woman replied, puffing herself up with as much self pride as she possibly could as Altyre questioned her about what she thought the country needed. She was careful in what exactly she all revealed, after all it could come back and bite her if she wasn't careful. The pleasantries seemed to continue on, although she had a feeling from his words that he was well aware that she had essentially been spying on him. "I've heard bits and pieces here and there. After all they say a leader who's aware of all that's going on, is a good leader" she replied coolly with a shrug, as if she had answered this question more then enough times. It was a practiced answer, and one she felt that she was good with.

She was relieved yet a bit terrified as soon the conversation steered towards what this meeting was truly about. Her form became slightly rigid, hoping to hear his answer so she could get out of their quickly. A frown appeared on her face though as he questioned why it was she targeted the two and marked them for death. "Is it necessary really for you to know my reasoning? It just needs to be done is all the information that should really be needed" she stated almost smugly. Why should she need to explain herself to an assassin? After all here she was offering to pay to have the two killed, when money was involved who should care about the whys of the job? To her his job was simply to kill not ask questions.

The firebender shrugged, "Suit yourself, but I don't lie. There's no need to when I could simply kill you before you knew it." His words rung with a harsh truth but the woman with obviously in a highly paranoid state of mind, which suited him just fine but it would make her difficult to deal with possibly. It wasn't something that he really wanted to go through today. Besides, he was way too laid back and hated having to be forceful, though he understood that certain situations called for it more than others.

"Dangers such as?" He raised an inquisitive eyebrow at the woman. He wouldn't expect too much from the woman but these conversations were how he gained information from his contacts and kept him well informed of what was going on in each country. His contacts were always rich influential people. They were the only one's who could afford to hire a Vatican assassin. Tyr smiled grimly at the woman's words, "Not always," he replied just as smoothly with a shrug of his own. "Sometimes a mongoose tracks a snake without realizing just how venomous the snakes bite really is." A subtle warning that he had no intention of elaborating on.

Altyre's crimson glare narrowed and he locked his gaze with the woman's for a long term of silence. After about a minute of silence was over he finally spoke, "Do you know why Vatican Assassin's can set their own price and we cost so much to hire? Don't answer that, I'll tell you. We don't make mistakes." As he spoke the temperature in the room was slowly rising, "I get to decide if I want this job or not and if you don't hire me then you won't find another one of us anytime soon if ever and I there's not another Guild of assassin's that can pull off this job or do you doubt my words?"

Pausing for a moment to let his words sink in while his venomous gaze wore down her stubborn disposition, "Tell me what they've done and what your motive is, and you'll have my answer. Remember, if I don't like your next words, you may not walk out of here. . ." The dark skinned male never felt like he made threats, he only made promises. If there was something that he said he would do, it got done. Plain and simple.

The words once more made Rhamiria eye the cup and unconsciously push it slightly further away from herself. "Lying or not it I feel it may be best to avoid a possibility then either way" the woman stated, making it clear she didn't entirely trust the dark skinned male's words, other then the fact that he could kill her at any time. She was already on pins and needles as it was, but hearing Altyre state the fact only made it worse for her mind. Suspicion, fear and doubted clouded her mind and judgment for the most part. If she made it out of this already stressful meeting alive she was determined next time to bring along a safety assurance with her if she were to ever be forced to cross his path again.

Her brows furrowed as he question what sorts of dangers she was referring to. 'You for example' she thought to herself, making a mental note that perhaps after Kiril and Kaji were out of the picture, this man should perhaps do a little disappearing act of his own. "To list them off would simply be a bore. Besides their easy to see if one just looks around themselves" she replied as nonchalantly as possible, while hoping to deter any further questionings. The last thing she wanted was to give the dread locked male any further leverage over her. It was bad enough that she held a gamble of her life at the moment she didn't wish to gamble anything further if she didn't have to. "Ah well then lucky I'm not a mongoose eh? Keeping an eye out is very different then actually acting out. I've no need to chase a snake" the dim eyed woman replied, almost appalled at an animal comparison to the situation. She never liked them and to be compared to one was simply insulting her mind.

Feeling the rise of temperature set off warning bells in the woman's mind. This meeting needed to end and it needed to end now before she found herself no longer breathing. "I came merely as a customer not an informant. I'm more then willing to pay whatever cash is needed for the job to be done, but I'm not an information broker. If you're not willing nor up to the task then simply say so and I shall simply return to my previous arrangement" she countered, unnerved by the piercing gaze, however determined nevertheless to keep her personal secrets to herself. A slight pang of rage bubbled through her at what she surmised as a threat as issued towards her. She was a council woman and she refused to be talked to in such a way whether from 'dangerous low bloods' or anyone else for that matter. "I'll state one last time it is of my concern and no one else's as to my reasoning. I've already other arrangements prepared as well as ones made in case I am not found alive when next I meet another. So again if you feel you're not up for the job then simply say so and I shall leave, otherwise both my time as well as your own shall only be wasted" she stated standing now and more then happy to be on her merry way and away from the danger that radiated across from her.

"You came to me not knowing who or what I am and you've insulted me and the Vatican more than a few times now. If I accept this job, don't expect another of my brother's to find their way to you." The woman from here on out would have to hire normal assassins. He would warn the Vatican -well Varren at least- of her behavior. Money wasn't the only thing that the assassins of the Vatican worked for. The were suppose to be a Brotherhood that kept the Order. And they did. The only reason why Altyre had left was because of his own personal reasons. He still kept in contact with Varren and knew full well that the Vatican would no longer chase him because he'd killed so many of his pursuers up until now and took a long time to train new members.

The firebender shrugged, "I'm not so wide eyed that I see all the problems around me, which is why I asked that you would share what you know. This meeting is kept in confidence and I shall abide by that Law." At this point he wasn't reassuring her, but educating the woman on how to conduct proper business with the Vat, but she would no longer find herself able to come into contact with another one of them so there was really no need for all of this. It was simply a courtesy she didn't deserve. "Aye, that it is," he replied with that same venomous smile.

"Our costumers are our informants. You'd know that if you had any idea who you were dealing with," he said as the temperature in the room continued to rise. His gaze was steady and persistant. She didn't have to fear him, but she would die if she didn't fear death, and the worst part about her death is that they wouldn't be able to pin it on him because she hadn't taken a sip from the tea and she hadn't been touched or burned. There aren't any people outside this room that would miss her enough to look for a ghost when they couldn't identify the cause of death.

The lean bender snickered at the woman's last words, "My time is free to be spent in any manner of my choosing. I have nothing to do today. Besides, which of your eyes do you think will be left alive to tell anything should you not make it out of here? They won't know, and I know all of them by face. They'll be dead before you're found. Now, I'll say for the last time before you die of dehydration and suffocation that it is my concern. The Vatican requires that we have a reason for taking a life. I'd be betraying my vows if I don't ask." His eyes were focused like a raven's on its prey. He was steadily raising the temperature around her specifically, but it would feel like it was being raised in the room.

The male poured himself another cup and smiled once again, "You should really think about your next answer. They may be the last words you ever speak and if you try to do anything to me if you do leave alive then you'll find that no amount of security -including the Imperial Guard- can save you."

Rhamiria could clearly feel the heat, that she believed filled the entire room, and knew she now needed to get out of there. "I came knowing that you are skilled in killing. I care not about you being apart of this 'Vatican', just as you clearly care not that you're dealing with a council woman of the strongest nation. The only service I require is for two men to be killed, and I was pointed in your direction. Clearly however you are not the person to talk to" she spat back. She merely wanted to find someone strong enough that could easily dispatch two threats to herself and her political career, not find someone who killed for a 'noble' reason. During their first meeting she believed money became the issue, after all he turned down her first few monetary offers, and not until she offered a higher amount did he say he'd consider it. To her if a price couldn't persuade then it wasn't worth the effort.

"If you're a hire for death then problems other then how to go about killing your targets shouldn't be of your concern. Clearly I've made an error in thinking you could handle the task I needed done, perhaps you've time to waste but I do not. I came for an answer and clearly gotten it. So since it's not a waste of your time then I shan't be wasting anymore of mine" she stated backing her way towards the door. She would have another fulfill her task, one that wouldn't ask questions she wasn't willing to answer, nor one that would prove quite as dangerous to her own well being.

"You know the faces of only the lower pawns, and they are rarely kept around long enough anyways. It's not them that will prove a threat, but those higher on the totem pole. Everyone has an Achilles heel that is revealed whether they know it or not. The only person I require to know a possible fact as that already does, and if I fail to return then they shall be the one taking action" she haughtily added as the hands that were behind her scanned quickly for a doorknob once she felt a hard surface behind her.

"Perhaps it's not I who should be watching their tongue. If I die then I shall assure you something shall be taken. With that I no longer want your services nor need them as I had originally thought, therefore this matter is no longer any of your concern" she stated, hinting there was something she felt she knew something herself as her hands grasped shakily once she found the knob to possible freedom, although her hands were having a bit of difficulty steadying themselves enough to turn it properly, fumbling almost blindly with it. She was like a criminal awaiting the axe to be beheaded, trying to find any possible leverage or way to promote her own survival. He seemed so interested at information, she felt perhaps leaking only a slight hint at knowing something would at least improve her current chances.

Altyre watched and listened to the woman in pure amusement at this point. She was probably the most stubborn person he'd ever had to deal with -on top of being about to pass out- and she had no idea that there wasn't going to be another assassin that could deal with the both of them. Bloodbenders were exceptionally rare so nobody was trained to deal with that, and Kaji was simply beyond the level of almost all assassins that could be sent his way. "I pray you find that which doesn't exist," he announced sarcastically.

Her state of pure paranoia was both highly evident and annoying, "I'm asking for information for my benefit and not at your expense. Ah, and there was no error in thinking I could handle this task, the error lay in your ill advised thought process. You thought me a common assassin and that landed you here. Only people who have filth on their hands worry this much." He spoke from obvious experience, but he sounded as he truly didn't care what she thought.

The firebender burst into laughter when she stated that he only knew the small pawns, "I know all your dogs. And, I know more dirt about you than you'd like leaked to the public councilwoman. Maybe I should send out a few letters to the local newspapers with a few of your more base exploits with that earthbender? How would that look to your peers? Allowing a lowborn brute into your bedchamber just to keep him on a leash?" Al smiled and heated up the doorknob so that it would burn her hand when she touched it.

Getting up out of his seat and closing the gap between himself and the woman almost instantly, he stopped when they would've essentially be face to face if it weren't for him being so much taller than her. Looking down at the woman his crimson eyes began to glow almost an amber color, "You mistake me for someone with a heart if you think I care about anything that you even think you could take. Vatican assassins have no possessions, no attachments." Placing a hand beneath her chin he raised her head so that she had no choice other than to make eye contact with him as his eyes radiated with a fierce fiery glow, "So try me, and see if I don't ruin your life," he said in a tone that was as if he was death incarnate.

Releasing her from his hold and allowing her to breath once again as he let the door handle cool he turned away from the woman and walked back to his chair, "Now leave, before I change my mind."

She laughed at his words, though it was more spawned from the fear racing in her close minded brain. "Oh I assure you I've had an alternative plan in mind far before you came into the picture, and I know it'll work. I only came to you from what I believed to be a convince and would take less time, but again I was mistaken in that sense" she shot, attempting to sound as if the dangerous looks and promise of death didn't frighten her as much as it did. Beneath her sapphire colored cloak though she could feel her body shaking despite the heat. She was as a scared animal trying to put on a brave front. Oh she would make this fire bender pay dearly for putting her in such a state.

Her hands soon shot from the door knob once the metal heated and singed the 'delicate' skin of her palms. "An assassin is an assassin, they're all the same. I don't care of what would have benefited you. Any information given to someone who's profession is to kill is always at the person's expense. I know how you people work. You gather dirt and attempt to use it as blackmail. Even if you've found a small amount of dirt on me your trail isn't completely gone either. The only difference is that your just requires a bit more looking" she spoke again haughtily.

Her face turned a shade of red, though not the same delicate and almost innocent red of embarrassment like another air bender held, but that one of pure rage. "You dare and I promise you shall be the one ruing the day. No matter how well trained you are, you're still only human" she said through clenched teeth. 'We'll see how little value you have for what I can take away' she thought with a glare, even though the closeness of a harbinger of death as he suddenly closed the distance and forced her to gaze into the crimson eyes. Once released, and feeling the heat of the metal door knob vanished, she quickly sought it out once more and made her exit as quickly as she could, slamming the door quickly behind her, mainly for safe measure for herself.

Her body still shook with fear, but now her mind was free to feel the full extent of her anger. The cloak around her billowed out angrily as she quickly descended the stairs, mumbling curses and idle threats under her breath. Passing by the patron of the inn and out the establishment she didn't even see the woman that she ended up colliding with, causing both to fall. "What were you're going you clumsy-" she began to shout until her vision caught the sight of the light colored woman that had technically broken her fall.

Long light blue hair splayed out as a pale colored hand rubbed the back of the owners head that had come in rather harsh contact with the ground. "S-sorry. I wasn't paying attention where I was going. I'm so terribly sorry" came the gentle apology of an air bender that had been on the council woman's mind. 'Oh...Well I wasn't quite expecting this...' Rhamiria thought, before quickly picking herself up and brushing off her costly and rich clothing. A sort of sinister smiled appeared on the woman's face. "Oh pay no mind to it, accidents happen after all. Here...let me help you up deary" she replied in her sickeningly false kind tone, stretching her hand out to help the woman up. Of course later she would feverishly disinfect the hand, clothing and the rest of her person that came into contact with the low blood filth and dirt.

Graciously she accepted the hand up, and again rapidly apologizing for a clumsiness that truly rested with Rhamiria rather then Sylph. Once standing she quickly began brushing herself off her own short clothing, though soon had to pause as her hand came into contact with a few scrapes that she could feel she gained on her arms that she had instinctively thrown out to take most of the impact of the fall. "I really truly am so very sorry. I hope your clothes aren't ruined now. I-I promise I'll pay for their cleaning" she quickly offered as she realized the woman that had landed on her was clearly someone who was wealthy.

"Oh think nothing of it at all. I'm sure it'll come right out, I'm more concerned about you. You're bleeding, we'll want to get that cleaned up right away" Rhamiria continued on as she offered her false assistance and 'concern' about the other air bender. "Oh no I'll be fine. I can just pop in here and ask to use their rest room to clean up. Really there's no need for concern on my behalf" the light haired air bender replied a bit startled at the woman's concern about someone like her, since most of the 'higher borne' didn't commonly mingle with 'common citizens' like her, as she nodded towards the Wolf Inn that she had been passing by. Altyre had said he was expecting a bit of company today that dealt with work and wasn't sure when they would be leaving the day before. She wasn't planning on disturbing the fire bender, especially since it was work related, and really passing by was just sort of a habit she now developed, even if she wasn't going in.

This seemed to 'satisfy' the older woman. "Well...if your certain" the dim colored eyed woman replied, offering a fake smile to the younger girl. Just as the younger air bender once more apologized to her and turned to quickly take care of her minor injury the older one stopped her. "Say...You look...familiar. Aren't you that young girl I've seen the arena champion and another man with?" the woman asked slyly, a smile spreading further on her heavily painted face as Sylph nodded. "Yes my name is Sylph. I apologize for not mentioning my name earlier" the air bender replied shyly and surprised again that a noble had taken notice of her.

"Ah well I thought so...You may want to get that cleaned up so it doesn't get infected dear. I'm sure I'll be seeing you around again" Rhamiria said, before nodding goodbye and turning on her heels to leave the area.

Sylph was a bit...puzzled to the noble woman's words. She felt somewhat bad that she didn't know who the woman was, after all she never really paid much attention to the wealthy that strutted about the city. The small trickle of blood call her attention back to her arm, causing her to quickly make her way into the Inn to seek a bathroom to at least stop the bleeding. The innkeeper at this point had gotten use to seeing the air bender and allowed her to use the facilities, all the while sending someone up to Altyre's room to let him know the air bender was here.

That woman would be trouble. He knew this in his gut. She was too proud and was more ignorant than a new born baby. At least most of the other nobles that he worked for and with had a bit of sense, because he usually didn't have to threaten someone simply to get information. Then again most of the others had known what it meant to hire someone from the Vatican.

Grabbing a piece of paper along with a pen and some ink, the man sat down to write a letter to Varren and warn him of Einheit and this woman.

Dear Varren,

I know it's been a while since I've last written you but you know why that is. I appreciate that you've stood in my corner through all of this and helped to keep them from attacking me again. I regret that the blood of my Brothers and Sisters are on my hands but they left me no choice. I still beg for reinstatement within the Vatican's ranks once more, but I will not accept any punishment for defending myself. But this is a matter more suited for personal discussion. I am in Einheit right now and I felt that it would be prudent to warn you and the others to stay away from this country. I have a feeling that this place is about to become a Hell-hole within the next few months. Things are bad here and the council seems to be corrupt. I've met with a councilwoman named Rhamiria who asked that I take out the head of the Imperial Guard here and his younger brother, but she failed to provide a reason or motive. I believe it's for personal gain and to further her hold on this country and it's inhabitants. I'll stay here for a while longer and report to you the things that I find with a small bit of hope that this can earn me a place back amongst my family. I lost my first family before I got a chance to know them, I'd not like to lose the only one that I know.

Sincerely, Altyre

They young male was finishing the second cup of his tea when he heard a knock on the door. Getting up leisurely he went to the door and opened it, only to find it was the Inn attendant, "Sir, you lady friend is here. I do think she's been injured as well." Tyr's eyes narrowed at the information and his mind immediately went to Rhamiria, "Thank you. Where is she?"
"In the ladies room sir."
"I'll be right down. Make sure she doesn't leave before I speak with her."
"Yes sir."

The attendant nodded and made a prompt exit. The assassin didn't usually carry his weapons on him but it looked like he might need to now. Walking to his bed, he got down and reached underneath it and dragged out his utility belt where he kept his 'tools' for work. On the belt was a long sharp knife that he used for assignments, and he'd be keeping this on him at all times from now on.

After he'd fixed up his belt with his tools and knife at the back so that they couldn't be seen under his coat, he made his way downstairs to meet up with the airbender.

The scraped proved to be more annoying then the air bender had originally thought. It wasn't that it was serious, nor all that deep. On the contrary despite its slightly large size it was relatively shallow, but the amount of blood it deceptively spewed made it seem more serious then it was. It took a fair amount of dispensable napkins to cover it and copious amounts of water to at least slow down the bleeding and get it clean. She winced as the cool water lapped at the raw flesh beneath, and again when her cheap style of bandage, a paper towel, brushed against the shallow wound and absorbed the small flow of blood. She waited a few moments, finding herself changing and doubling up the paper towels until the flow ceased.

During her cleaning one of the inn attendants announced from the door that Altyre requested she wait for him, as he wished to speak with her before she left. Quietly she let out a sigh. She hadn't been planning on alerting the fire bender to her presence, after all she knew he was busy with his job today, though it seemed the staff of the Inn had other plans. Glancing down at her arm she knew exactly what it had looked like when she entered and she wasn't looking forward to a potential lecture of 'how she needed to be careful'.

With another sigh she took a few moments to at least adjust the rest of her appearance as best she could. Given that her clothes were white in color there wasn't much she could do about the light dirt stains that were now on them, other then splashing a bit of water on them and using her air bending to dry the spots. Once she felt at least a bit more presentable then when she had entered, she made her way quietly out of the restroom. Her light blue gaze glanced towards the door, wondering if she could possibly sneak out to avoid what she dreaded the talk would be about, however one look at the surprising quick Inn keeper soon dashed those thoughts. She had tried it once before and it didn't exactly...go according to plan. So instead she gently seated herself in a table closer to the back and waited patiently. 'If I position my arm this way...it's not that noticeable...Maybe he'll think they saw something different?...I doubt it...' she thought with a mental sigh as one arm rested straight up so her small chin could rest in the palm, while the 'injured' one rested in her lap. Her expression looked similar to a teen expecting her parents to berate her for some stupid action as her light blue eyes slid close. 'Oh well...at least I'll get to see him anyways even if it hadn't been planned today'

Her eyes opened as she heard the familiar sound, carried on the air, of Altyre's movement on the steps. It was a faint noise, that most perhaps wouldn't hear or pay attention to unless they were specifically listening for it, but like many other things it too became a habit of hers though this one stemmed more from childhood. Even if she was directionally challenged and a bit of an air head at times she still paid attention enough so she wouldn't get snuck up on, mainly due to the 'spider incident' from when she was much, much younger.

(Evil fire fox! Snuck is so a word! This spell check needs to be updated...)

([LOL])

When the male arrived downstairs he looked to the innkeeper who pointed at a table towards the back. He glanced in that direction and burst into laughter as he caught a look at the woman who seemed more like a child at the moment. Giving a nod of appreciation to the innkeep he headed in Sylph's direction weaving through tables and chairs with a slight smirk on his face.

When he arrived at her table he took a seat next to her and let out a loud sigh, "Let me see it." It wasn't really a demand but he sounded like an exasperated father who was looking after his child. When he saw the scratch he noticed immediately that it was shallow, but it was in a spot that would bleed heavily, "What happened?" he asked curiously. For as shallow as it was, it was kind of long, and looked more like she was cut than anything else. A knife cut to be exact but he didn't want to assume.

"Oh, and after you leave here, you should go and see Kiril or Heather. One of them'll be able to patch this up quickly. It's in a spot that bleeds heavily and it can be reopened easily, so have one of em' look at it." Altyre was playful and goofy most of the time, but when required to, he could easily shift into a more serious mode where he spoke with wisdom and knowledge though he preferred to be childish. It was something he'd picked up in his time at the Vatican. As a child he was mainly playful and goofy but his job required him to be able to handle business when it was time.

Admittedly it was hard for him not to jump to conclusions about what had happened but Sylph wasn't acting as though she'd been attacked so he knew that wasn't the case. Which only left that it was an accident, and more than likely her fault at that. The dread-haired male shook his head at the thought knowing that was exactly what she was going to tell him.

Sylph's eyes lit up when she heard Altyre approach and set them upon the male. She watch and waited quietly as the fire bender took a seat beside her, and awaited the first the request to see and then to explain what had happened, that she knew was bound to come. Moments later her 'vision' was fulfilled as he requested to see the wound. Obediently she showed her arm to him. "It's really nothing. It looked worse then what it was" she quietly stated as she mentally prepared her 'case' as to what happened.

Soon enough the question came and she quietly let out a sigh. "I wasn't paying attention and bumped into someone. We fell and I ended up scraping my arm, nothing too big" she calmly explained, lifting her chin off of her palm and waving the incident off. She was still relatively puzzled about one thing though. Sylph had fallen many times in her life, some as a result of herself and others...well she knew they weren't entirely her fault though she'd still take the blame, but now that she thought about it, it was in a relatively strange place considering how she fell. Still she shrugged off the fact and decided to think nothing of it.

A pout came to her face as the black haired male suggested she go to one of the water benders. "It'll be fine, it's just a little scrape that will heal on its own in a few days. No need to get Heather going off on a tangent and I don't want Kiril to worry. If I had known that the inn staff were going to go tell you I would have asked them not to say anything either to be honest. Besides it'll give me an 'excuse' to be more careful" she said as she playfully poked one of his impressive biceps. She was still amazed how bulked up her childhood friend had gotten over the years.

Sylph wasn't quite as stubborn as Rhamiria was, rather she simply didn't wish for people to worry. She was a big girl after all, she could handle a little scrape like this. She still found it odd though that a rich noble woman would be anywhere near a place like this since they tend to keep more to themselves on the 'richer' side of Einheit. Perhaps things were changing for the better? She could still feel the tension in the air whenever she walked down the street, but she felt perhaps this would lead to decreasing it if the social classes began to mingle more with one another. It was a fairly naive and innocent thought, and she was aware of this, but she preferred to be more optimistic about things.

"I hope they didn't interrupt you during your meeting though" came her light and gentle tone as she seemed to idyll set her other arm gently on the table and traced a random design on the table top with her fingers. There was already an apologetic look in her eyes just in case.

"I know," he gently said in reply to the woman's defense of her wound. He'd already ran through his mind all the possibilites of what it could be but there weren't many loose rocks around here. The roads were paved and well done despite this being the lower quarter of the city. Einheit seemed to take pride in their architecture and framework which was certainly impressive.

"You scraped your arm on what?" he asked instinctively. Then he wondered something, "This person you bumped into, what did they look like? Can you describe them to me?" That cut was definitely a sharp cut so it was possible that someone could've had something concealed on their person when they bumped into the girl. The only inconsistency was the placement of the wound.

Tyr shrugged ruthlessly when the girl pouted about going to see one of the healers, "That's not why I'm telling you to go see them. That's a clean cut, so whatever cut you was extremely sharp and there's a chance it could become infected if you don't get it looked at. Especially if you don't know what it was." Now it had become a demand. She needed to go see one of them immediately to have that looked at.

Shaking his head he answered, "Nah, the meeting ended a few minutes before I was aware of your presence. It's no big deal." He gave his friend a pat on the head and a smile, "You don't have to worry about bothering me," he told her.

Sylph stared at him for a few moments when Altyre questioned what it was she scraped herself on. "Well silly typically when someone falls they scraped themselves on the ground" she replied with a giggle and move her playful poking to his cheek once. It was clear she wasn't concerned about it in the least. She had to think a moment when he asked what the person she bumped into looked like. "Ummm let's see...I know they were wearing some pretty fancy stuff...I believe it was a pretty blue color I think, but other then that I didn't really pay much attention. They seemed relatively nice though, especially since they didn't throw me in jail. I know around here people can get a bit touchy about that sort of thing when they have money. Guess luck was on my side this time" A smile of relief played on her features, lightening them from the pout she had held just a few moments ago.

Soon enough it returned however as the fire bender continued to press her to have one of the water benders look at it. She personally didn't see the need, after all she had cleaned it and so long as she was careful she'd be alright right? She sighed though knowing well that she wouldn't win an argument against the fire bender. "Alright I'll have one of them look at it later then if it'll make you feel better. I still don't think it's anything though. People fall down and get a little scratched up all the time....I'm living proof of that one" she said jokingly as she tried to lighten the mood up slightly and steer the conversation away from bugging one of the water benders.

The opportunity somewhat arose as the dark skinned male announced that his meeting was over already. "That quickly? So then you'll have the rest of the day free, or is there work to be done now?" she asked, rather curiously. She had never been told what it was her friend did for his chosen profession, or what it was his profession was. The only clue she had was the clue he had given her and all the others, that it held some similarities to his interview hobby. Personally the only thing she could think of was something in the media business. Perhaps he was an inside writer for a newspaper, or maybe he was secretly and author of a book series she hadn't gotten a hold of...yet...Either way she was curious as to what it was he did and it was clear in her eyes. However she wouldn't outright ask since he had said he couldn't discuss it before, and that was something she would respect.

"Right," he said in a sarcastic tone as he pretended to be playful with the girl. As much as he teased Sylph she really had been close to him at one point but he knew that they couldn't really get married or anything. That was an attachment. The Vatican didn't allow for those, and Varren certainly wouldn't approve nor would it help his chances of making it back into the Brotherhood.

As he listened to the girl describe Rhamiria without even having to get really specific about things, he could feel the anxiousness building in him. Quickly he asked, "Did you talk to that person and tell them anything about yourself like your name?" Usually he wouldn't have asked anything like this because he knew she was a friendly girl but since she had just run into Rhamiria then things just got a bit more complicated.

Al gave a nod of approval, "Thank you. I know you think its nothing but this time I want a second opinion." There was no need to really alarm the girl but he would have to warn the others that Sylph may have been targeted, but he won't explain anything further. He still had to maintain a bit of his privacy but they needed to be warned and she would need to be watched. Maybe he would steal a few of Rhamiria's eyes to serve as his own until she disposed of them.

Sylph seemed to perk up upon hearing that his meeting was over but unfortunately he wouldn't be able to spend time with her, "Sorry girlie but I'll need to handle a bit of business before I have some free time." He didn't have a job per say but he did have work to do.

Sylph let out a quiet giggle, before allowing her playful poking to cease temporarily. "It's possible too that there might have been something on the ground too, like glass or something. As clean and Einheit tries to keep its streets, no place is perfect" she continued with a small shrug as she hoped to at least quell the worry he seemed to be having over what she considered just a little scratch. She was appreciative that he seemed to worry for her, even if she felt at the moment it wasn't necessary, and was perhaps a driving force in her increasing affections for her childhood friend. Of course at times she felt Kiril the same way, although perhaps a bit more subtle, which only helped her confusion. She had assessed her feelings for the two somewhat and was finding them to be equal, which only made it harder to try and decide a decision she would one day have to make. For the time being though she would simply enjoy the company of the two males as well as her other two friends she had made.

At the question she gently nodded. "She said I looked familiar and asked me if I was the one that hung around you and Kiril. I guess she's seen me around a few times so I told her that I knew you two and you were my friends. After that it would have been rude if I didn't at least give my name, although I didn't get hers. But she was probably in a hurry, plus I sort of needed to stop my arm from bleeding. It's relatively hard you know to get blood stains out of white clothing" she said as her had came up and rubbed the back of her head and gave a slightly embarrassed giggle.

Her arm then came down as the hand then gently rested on the dark skinned male's arm, a warm and affectionate smile on her face. Leaning over quickly she gave a light peck on his cheek as a way of expressing gratitude for his worry. "You know if you worry too much you'll end up going bald" she lightly teased. She would go seek out one of the water benders, as she had promised, but she would wait until they weren't busy. Guessing from the time of day Heather was more then likely attending to her duties, while keeping an eye on Kaji, who was being worked beyond exhaustion despite the harsh flogging he had been given earlier in the week, and she figured Kiril was either training, helping with the arena for whenever they reopened, or may have been with his brother. All three she felt were plausible option for the water bending male. Either way she would wait until at least evening before going to either one.

A pout formed in her eyes as Altyre stated he had a few business things to do before he would have free time again, though she nodded her head in understanding. "I understand, but you be careful. I may not know your profession, but I know whatever it is, it's definitely something over the top" she warned with concern in her tone. She figured though that later perhaps she, Kiril and Altyre could spend some time together again. The two males seemed to have really hit it off, which is what she had hoped for, and the three usually had a good time together. If she was lucky perhaps she could even convince Heather and Kaji to join them, since the five of them usually had a great time together as well, plus it gave her a chance to payback tease Heather. She figured the two guards still hadn't mentioned their feelings towards one another, though she still wondered about what the fire bender actually felt for the water bender, but she figured perhaps with a bit more prompting she could at least get Heather to confess her feelings of affection to Kaji, and perhaps get him to confess the same. Then again she knew she'd be getting the same teases in regards to Altyre and Kiril. For her she felt it really wasn't fair that she could now be teased doubly.

"That's true," he admitted. Just not likely. To be honest it was ununsual for him to worry about her and it was funny that she didn't seem to notice, but then again she was a complete airhead and had a low overall awareness or situations. Sometimes that was a good thing, others not so much. Still, soon enough he would have to make a choice about whether or not he really wanted to pursue a relationship with her or if he sincerely wanted to rejoin the Vatican, because the two did not go hand in hand and as much as he cared for the woman she was the problem in this decision.

When Sylph spoke those words, Tyr could feel his heart drop. She was most definitely in danger. She'd run into Rhamiria and the councilwoman was targeting her and she wasn't even in the slight bit aware of this. What had hit him the most is that it was partially his fault. The fact that she hung out with Kiril as well was probably just as much a reason for her to be targeted, but he hated that she was going to be in danger because of him at all. Maybe he should back off. He hadn't thought about the possibility that someone would attack him through his friends since he hadn't thought he had any up until now. Of course he remembered the times that they'd hung out as friends but after seven years he was sure that all of that was over. He went back to Bierdt for closure originally so that he could put his past behind him but look at where that'd got him.

The firebender laughed at the girl's words putting on a mask, just as he'd practiced and done so many times before, "It'll have to be something extremely bad to worry me enough that I go bald. I can't imagine that happening anytime soon," he replied just as playfully. It was as much a true statement as it was a playful one.

The tall male shrugged and grinned, "Why does my profession have to be over the top?" It was a rhetorical question he gave just to be funny, but he rose from his seat after that, giving the girl a quick ruffle of her hair then he waved at her as he made a quick exit out of the inn. He needed to find Kiril. Of everyone that he could talk to, Kiril was the first he need to warn for a few reasons. They needed to have a chat, but he still wouldn't tell him what his job was. Nor could he explain his job to Kaji or Heather but he would have to pretend he heard of this through the grapevine. It wouldn't be a hard excuse to use, nor entirely unbelievable.

Playfully she swatted at his hands as Altyre got up and ruffled her hair. "Mainly because I can't imagine you at a mundane and ordinary job. And you know worrying about the little things does add up after awhile" she called with a giggle. She was relatively disappointed to see him go, but he did say he had business to do so there wasn't too much she could do about it. She figured though she'd get to catch up with him later, if it didn't take too long or wasn't too exhausting.

She watched with a quiet sigh as her childhood friend left the inn and sat back in her chair. She gave her injury another glance, still wondering why he had so much concern over it. It wasn't deep and the really only odd thing about it was its placement, but then strange things like that occur every once and awhile don't they? 'I should probably still get it looked at since I did promise Altyre I would' she thought with another sigh.

She waited a few moments, staring at the cut, before deciding that it would probably be best to head out once more. Since she hadn't had anything planned with her friends until later anyways, and so she had arranged to actually partake in her own professions, especially since soon enough she would have to pay her rent for her current living quarters. She had managed to land a job teaching young and aspiring air benders the basics of air bending, since out of her own air bending it was probably what she was the best at. She wasn't a fighter like Kiril and she knew she wasn't strong enough to be an imperial guard, or even part of the police force like Kaji and Heather were, but then she found she didn't have to be. She was quite satisfied with the work as well since she got along with her students, although it was a bit sporadic when it was she got to teach. Mainly she would inquire with the school if they needed any extra help the day before, and usually they gladly would accept her. She knew with that set up she had gotten relatively lucky.

Her other profession mainly dealt with crafts or arts that were commonly found in Bierdt, but not so much in other countries, and with so many people in Einheit it provided her with a fair amount of income. She was especially good with the crafts that dealt with the use of air, but she mainly attributed that to the fact it was her bending element. She knew she was also relatively lucky that so many seemed fascinated by trinkets from other countries, and so she had a vast network of merchants that would buy her works off of her. With the two incomes combined she found she could live comfortably enough and was rather satisfied with her 'unusually sparsely furnished' home, as Heather once put it.

Getting up from the table she gracefully weaved her way around the tables, and various other customers in the inn and tavern. She nodded a goodbye to the inn owner and made her way out.

-----------

It wasn't until later in the day that Sylph approached Heather to have her look at the cut. Fortunately it was during a time that the shorter woman had finished up her regular guard duties plus a few extra. She was currently sitting now on a chair in the water bender's office surprisingly, with the woman bent over her arm on the desk. "He passed out? Wow...I would have never thought it possible" she said in a relatively astonished tone. She had been conversing with the water bender about the day and found out the woman's red haired love interest had finally reached his limits and collapsed from exhaustion.

"It's because of that damn Rhamiria! She's been forcing one thing after another on him, especially now with Alkaid still recovering in the hospital. As it was I think Kaji rarely slept, but now I think it's virtually impossible for him to get any now. I'm actually surprised he lasted this long" the shorter woman stated in a relatively upset tone. She felt it was only fortunate that she had been the one that found him before anyone else and found him when she did. She knew he was being overworked but she had been unaware to exactly how much. She had also been lucky that no one else within the guard had seen the short woman carrying the taller red head, as she knew both would never be able to live it down.

"At least you found him before his heat exhaustion had gotten even worse too. How is he doing by the way?" the air bender inquired, wincing a little as the water on Heather's hand turned relatively warm and seeped into her cut. From what the water bender had said previously when she first showed the auburn woman her wound, Sylph was relatively lucky that she didn't get cut deeper. The woman was as convinced as Altyre seemed to be that it was a sharpened object that had pierced her flesh rather then her rubbing it hard against the ground. Why Sylph suggested that it was probably glass, Heather had immediately shot that down stating she had seen enough wounds to know this was the work of a blade, and a sharp one at that.

"He's resting now in his private study. I managed to slip a few sedatives to keep him asleep for awhile. It's probably lucky that he was a bit out of it when he woke up the first time and drank the water I gave him without too much of a hassle" the water bender replied as she began to focus intently on the wound she was now willing completely shut. When the air bender had first approached her with it, she was relatively surprised. She knew that Sylph typically avoided physical fighting with others, if possible, so to see her with a blade wound was...well surprising.

Sylph nodded in agreement, then another though occurred to her. "Do you think Kiril knows?" she asked suddenly, after all this was his older brother they were talking about. She knew well that if she had ever found out something like that had happened to Nova she'd be making her way back to Bierdt to ensure he was alright.

"It's possible. I'm sure at least some sort of rumor has spread by now. It's not a normal occurrence for Kaji to miss any part of his duties, and I'm sure the towns people by now have noticed his absence, especially since he's the head of the imperial guards. There's quite a bit of hands on work that he has to do and quite a bit of interaction he must do with the towns people to complete some of the things on his ever growing list. If anything I'm sure the people he was suppose to get some of Rhamiria's things from have taken notice" the short water bender said with clear distaste. She didn't like the council woman in the least, especially when she treated the red haired guard so poorly. Sure they didn't see eye to eye on many issues, but he was still a guard that swore to protect the city and its citizens, and that included the pompous council woman.

Just thinking about the woman swelled the anger she held for her, and so to distract her thoughts she once more paid attention to Sylph's injury. "Now how did you say you got this again?" she questioned suddenly, locking her green eyes with the light blue of the air bender's. It was a force of habit so she could tell if a patient was lying or not. Of course she didn't think the air bender would lie to her about it anyways.

"I wasn't paying attention and bumped into a noble woman. I got it when we fell and I just assumed it was a scrape from the ground. Are you sure that it being a piece of glass isn't possible? Or maybe a really sharp rock or something?" the air bender asked quietly. It wasn't that she didn't believe in the abilities of the water bender, nor that the shorter woman didn't know her stuff about wounds, but it was hard for her to not be a little bit skeptical of it being the work of a sharp blade. As far as she was aware she hadn't seen anything like that on the woman and was certain no one else had been around to cause it when she stood up.

The short woman nodded her head once at Sylph's question. "I'm positive. From the looks of it I would say it was something small and short...Don't you dare giggle like that Missy!" she said pausing as the air bender giggled at the description. Quickly Sylph apologized for the interruption and motioned for her to continue. "I'd have to say maybe a knife or dagger if I were to guess. If it was a noble then more likely it was concealed and to be used as a last ditch defense. Actually many people, noble or not, carry something like that on their persons...even I have a small knife in my boot just in case" Heather calmly continued, as one of her hands reached down to her right brown leather boot and pulled out a sheathed knife to prove her point.

Although Heather made the wound off as probably and accident, and had convinced the air bender as much, she personally wasn't entirely sure herself. It was possible that it was, but even if the wound was made from a personal protection blade, she couldn't imagine the thing stashed away unsheathed. No the owner had to have drawn it in secret and cut the woman, and with as unaware as the air bender could be and as shallow the wound she wouldn't be surprised if the light blue haired girl hadn't noticed. But then why would anyone on purposely harm the air bender? As far as she was concern Sylph hadn't made any enemies in the city. Sure she hung around two of the guards, and the imperial guards weren't the favorite among the people, but surely that wouldn't be enough to provoke people into harming the gentle girl. She would need to definitely talk to Kaji about this, and probably Altyre and Kiril as well since she hung around them the most and ask them if they had noticed anyone suspicious that could be targeting her.

After a few more probes with the water that was glowing one her hand that covered the wound, and double checking to ensure it hadn't become infected, she proudly gave the woman a smile as she removed her hand, revealing unmarred flesh beneath it. "There all done. See that wasn't so bad now was it?" the woman teased with a grin on her face.

"Thank you Heather. I'm sure Altyre will be less likely to worry now too" she replied with a smile as she moved her arm gently, as she slightly tested out the water bender's work. She found her arm was a little stiff, but other then that as good as new.

"Anytime, although I bet you that despite my work there might be someone who will want to triple check anyways" the green eyed woman teased as she wiggled her eyebrows. She hadn't been able to tell what the progress between Kiril and Sylph was, since during the past week she hadn't had much of a chance to spend with them, but judging from the pink color that arose in the air bender's cheeks it was at least the same.

Later that afternoon, the male set out to find Kiril who was likely working around the Arena helping with the repairs and such. Since the demonstration the two of them had spent a bit of time talking and discussing the intricacies of bending such as fundamental differences and such. Altyre had even found that Kiril knew a few things that he hadn't been aware of, even with all of his own research and training. Despite their differences at first the two of them had warmed up to one another quite well over the past week even if they didn't always see eye to eye.

When he arrived at the Colosseum, there was quite a bit of rubble around since they were redoing the outside and the inside, which would take months. He checked around where people seemed to be the most congragated and was informed by a few of the other workers that Kiril had said that he would take his break on the training grounds. Naturally, Tyr headed there next.

He found the waterbender out in the field shadowbending with his eyes closed and shirt off. Shadowbending is a basic technique used to train a bender's fundamentals. Tyr wasn't really surprised at the sight of this. Waiting a few moments to see if the other male would notice, he finally decided to speak up when it was obvious that Kira didn't pick up on his presence, "Always looking for ways to get better I see."

Pausing mid motion the male turned and looked at his dark skinned opposite, "Always. What brings you out here?" The firebender's jovial demeanor immediately changed, "We need to talk." Kiril seeing the look on the other man's face and relaxed and picked up his shirt, which was nearby, then motioned for the male to follow him.

The two of them walked to the far side of the training grounds before either said a word, "Now, what's wrong?"
"It's Sylph."
"Did something happen!?!" he asked in an alarmed but hushed voice.
"Nah, nothing serious yet. But something big might."
"What do you mean something might?" he asked with a voice filled with mounting aggression.

Taking a deep breath, Altyre shifted a bit as he gathered his thoughts, "I've got good reason to believe that Sylph may soon be targeted by Rhamiria." Kiril seemed extremely surprised at this news, "What? Why? Sylph doesn't even know the woman."
"I know, I know. But apparently the councilwoman wants you and Kaji dead, and since her quickest option to get that done turned out to be a bust, she's implementing Plan B. Outside of the Wolf, she ran into Sylph and left a cut her arm from a hidden dagger. It was a shallow cut but it was in a spot that would bleed heavily and could easily be re-injured. I insisted that she come see either you or Heather, but I'm thinking, she'll go to her. She wouldn't want you to worry for her." Kiril gave the firebender a look that signified that he didn't have to say anymore. Both of them worried that it could've been poisoned but that seemed unlikely since Sylph hadn't had any type of reaction within the time that she and Tyr had spoken.

Then the silver maned male crossed his arms over his chest as he seemed to be taking in all the information calmly, but before he could speak again Tyr asked, "Have you seen Kaji lately? I think you should inform your brother that you two are being targeted." Kiril shook his head in frustration, "No, Rhamiria's been working Kaji to the bone lately. Hell, I'm surprised he can even stay awake or move right now. He was on the brink of exhaustion yesterday." Then Kira's eyes narrowed as a grim detail seemed to dawn on him, "Come to think of it, I haven't seen him today and usually we at least cross paths at some point."

Worry lined the younger sibling's face as a mysterious puzzle seemed to be coming together in his head all of a sudden, "If I see him later on after work I'll be sure to let him know, but I'll definitely stop by his house late tonight if I don't. He needs to be aware of this. Heather as well. She's the one watching over Kaji at the moment." Altyre tipped his head in agreement. The chocolate skinned bender had already spent a few hours setting up his own network of eyes and ears in the city. This was all they could do for now.

Frankly the firebender was honestly a little taken aback that the waterbender didn't inquire as to how he obtained this information but he seemed willing to take his words on faith, and that was a good sign. None of them had to time to be dawdling over small minor issues at the moment. Something big was about to happen. And soon.

The two women sat and chatted a bit longer, mainly teasing one another about the various males in their lives, before Heather announced she needed to check on Kaji. She was determined to keep the fire bender out for at least the rest of the night, after all he desperately needed the rest despite his constant reassurances that he was alright. She motioned for Sylph to follow her as she got up and went to the door. She waited until the air bender passed through before doing so herself, turning then locking the door to her office before motioning for the girl to follow her. As the women walked side by side their height differences really seemed to stand out. The water bender came up to about the same height as she did with Kaji, though with the air bender being slightly shorter then the red haired guard Heather came up a bit higher on her chest. She glanced momentarily at the willowy air bender before directing her gaze forward again. 'Cheater...' she thought with a pout, which without her knowledge, had been the same response the light blue haired woman had when she first reunited with Altyre.

Soon enough though the woman's thoughts turned serious. If someone was willing to attack Sylph when she was on her own without her knowing, then it was probably best for her to stay with someone that could at least protect her just in case a second occurrence were to come, at least for tonight. "Now...you might think this a bit paranoid but...I think tonight you should stay with someone just in case. I'd recommend one of the boys if anything" the shorter woman stated as they made their way down the elongated hallway that held various doors. Most were document rooms or archives, with a few others being the various studies of some of the more ranked guards. Heather was relatively lucky to have one herself, but then again she did rank sixth out of the imperial guard ranks. Although it wasn't her bending strength that had landed her there.

The promotional ranks of the guards were relatively unique, as it wasn't valor or medals that earned you places. Instead you had to fight for your place, challenging your way up. She had been relatively lucky, in truth, that her predecessor was so willing to relinquish her rank. She had been a follower of the previous head of guard, and once Kaji took the position, wished to follow her commander to his new post. Of course the water bender took full advantage of that since it would ensure constant interaction with Kaji. He was probably the only reason that she even remained in the imperial guards herself. Surprisingly she had been through a lot with the fire bender, as most of his campaigns she had been assigned to as one of the medical personnel, so she was perhaps one of the few that truly knew the horrors that the fire bender suffered during most of his career.

Sylph's face turned a vibrant color as Heather mentioned she should stay the night with one of the men. "I...I really don't think that's necessary...I mean it was only a cut and it's healed now right?" the air bender inquired as she walked beside her water bending friend. She had mixed feelings about staying the night with one of them, as a part of her was more then willing while the other...well it was just mainly embarrassing from the thoughts that seemed to swell up in her mind.

For once Heather didn't take too much notice of the girl's embarrassed state. "Yes it is, but there's no telling what else could happen. I'd offer for you to stay with me, but I think I'll be staying here with Kaji tonight and I can't say a study is exactly the most comfortable place to stay in. On top of that since he'll be out the rest of the night I can't guarantee I'd be the most suitable protector, therefore Kiril or Altyre would be the best choices. Once we're in Kaji's study I'll have a letter sent out to both of them to come here" she replied as she signaled for them to stop in front of a rather intricately made wooden door. Pulling out keys that had been resting in her pocket she quickly glanced around before unlocking it and motioned for the air bender to enter.

Once they were both inside the water bender turned and quickly closed and locked the door. Lights were already on in the room, though they were relatively dim, probably so as not to arouse curiosity or suspicion. It was much larger then Heather's office had been, with a bit more choice of seating areas. A few chairs were opposite to a large oak desk stacked with papers, while one rested on the other side, and held what looked to be a rather intricate calling device that looked like the control of an intercom. Quite a few filing cabinets lined the walls behind it as well as to the sides and stopping about a fourth of the way in. Two rather simplistic though comfortable looking small lounge couches adorned two sides and one small end table at either end rested against one wall. One of the couches were already occupied by the forcefully sleeping fire bender. A clear frown was on his face as he slept and his body seemed relatively tense.

Sylph was a bit surprised at the vast size of the room, taking in everything as best she could. Curiously she walked towards the desk, scouting out a few of the papers that were stacked there. As she looked back and forth between the various piles she noticed that one seemed to be filled with applications for the guards, police force, and even a few military, while others held longer documents stapled together. Glancing at another it seemed to be a pile of what looked like laws. Curiously she reached out to grab one and read over its contents.

Heather seeing the tenseness of the fire bender immediately went to his side, pulling out a bit of water and coating her hand with it as it lightly rested on his forehead, glowing all the while as it had when she had been healing Sylph's wound. She had noticed a rise in temperature around him as well and closed her eyes for a few moments, focusing more on her task and even spreading a bit of ice onto his skin. When she opened the green orbs again she turned her gaze towards the air bender. "Careful with those. I believe Kaji's still looking those over himself. I didn't see his seal on any of them so they're mainly waiting for his approval I think" she called out to the woman, who immediately seemed to replace the parchment she took.

Sylph eyed the water bender curiously. "I thought the council approved laws...why would they need Kaji's?" She wasn't entirely knowledgeable when it came to politics, but from what she gathered it was the council and the appointed king and queen of the land that dealt with passing and approving laws not guards.

"Yes they are the ones that pass them the laws, but it helps if before they're submitted they're approved by the head of the imperial guard, especially since they're the one that interacts with the people more then the members of the council or the royals. Of course even if Kaji doesn't give his approval they could still pass the law with a majority vote, it just helps convince those that side with Kaji on the council to agree" she explained with a shrug before glancing at the sleeping red head. His body had loosened up and relaxed as his face once more turned a bit more peaceful and the temperature radiating off of him returned to normal.

Glancing towards the shorter woman Sylph couldn't help but smile at the attention she was giving the fire bender. She didn't fully understand the explanation given, but she understood it enough to get an idea. Of course her mind wasn't entirely focused on politics either as she silently watched the guards. She could easily see the affection Heather held for the guard in her eyes as she stared at Kaji, and even removed a few blazing red strands of hair from his closed eyes. Although she hadn't been focused on the guard when she entered, she had caught a glimpse of him and noticed a gradual change when Heather placed her healing water on him. "Is he going to be alright?" she asked quietly.

Heather's attention shifted from Kaji back to Sylph as she asked about his well being once more. "Yes he'll be fine, he was just suffering from a nightmare but it should be alright for a little while now" she replied as she carefully removed her hand and returned the water to her 'hidden' container. "And now that, that's done it's time to send out those messages" the water bender stated, standing and stretching her limbs a bit, before making her way over to the paper filled desk, and went to the other side. She opened a few of the drawers she began rummaging around in them, searching for something, before pulling out two parchment papers and ink pen as well as a stamp. Taking a seat in the one chair Heather began scribbling the simplistic note that merely stated for the two to come to the headquarters of the imperial guards, stating they needed to talk as soon as possible tonight, and giving rather detailed instructions, 'landmarks' included, as to where to go. She felt Kaji's study was a bit more secure then her office so the directions would lead them where the two women were now, plus it gave her a chance to stay next to the fire bender. Once the message was written twice she quickly forged Kaji's name before folding them up and stamping his seal on them. She then turned her attention to the messaging device, pressed a button and requested a messenger report to the imperial's head office.

Sylph had been watching the woman and raised an eyebrow as she saw the water bender put Kaji's name instead of her own on the notes. "Why not put your own name?" she asked curiously.

Heather glanced up at the air bender as she secured the notes so they wouldn't fly open for the messenger to read. "Simple. If they flash these with Kaji's name and seal on them the guards stationed outside won't think twice of it. He's ranked higher then I am so they'll be able to get in easier without being questioned too much" she replied before hearing a rapping on the door. Moving quickly from the desk to it, she inched it open enough so she could hand the letters to the young looking lad that stood on the opposite side. "Kaji has requested these letters be delivered to an Altyre at Wolf's Inn and to the arena champion Kiril and no one else understand? These are to be delivered with complete haste so no dawdling understand or else I will shatter your legs and break your arms..." the woman quietly warned, and after the boy eagerly nodded his understanding she handed him the notes and watched him quickly rush off, before closing and locking the door once more. "Now we just need to wait" she said with a sigh before again returning to the fire bender's side.

Sylph eyed the woman in a bit of shock. She had easily heard the threat issued to the delivery boy. "Was that...really necessary?" she asked, her mouth practically gaping open.

Heather couldn't help but let out a giggle at Sylph's expression. "Yes. It shall ensure a very swift delivery" she stated with a smile before laughing.

It wasn't much longer than about an hour after the firebender left that Kiril was approached by a courier with a letter, "I've been instructed to give this straight to you sir." Kiril gave the young boy a nod, and he dashed off again with another letter in hand looking exactly like the one the waterbender had just received. Looking over the letter he noticed that it was stamped with the Imperial seal which could only mean it came from Kaji. Or Heather. Either way, it was probably important and about Sylph.

Peeling off out of the way of the other workers, Kira snapped open the seal and unrolled the parchment. The letter was simple: 'Come immediately'. Looking over the directions, he knew that they lead to Kaji's office at their headquarters near the palace in the center of town. He'd been there several times under the cover of night of course. Rolling up the parchment and slipping it into the pocket of his dirt stained pants he called to the group to let them know he was done for the day and had an important errand to run. He'd be there tomorrow if everything turned out to be fine, after all everyone that helped to fix up the Arena got paid and the more hands working on it, the faster it'd be up and running again. As it stood right now, it would be about four more months before the Arena could be the exciting sports venue that it normally was.

Heading out he waved to the other workers who were divided into basically two groups: the actual construction workers and the arena fighters who felt like lending a hand. Since most of them had done this before they didn't really hinder the professionals much but they weren't as quick and efficient either. Still they were getting the job done and getting paid a salary by the owner for helping. It was good work and muscle training at the same time.

There weren't many intersecting roads once you reached the palace square. All of them lead around the palace to various building then outward to different areas of the city again. Then there was the one street leading directly to the palace, which Kiril never understood. They probably had secret tunnels beneath it because if an enemy army marched right up to it, there was definitely no way out if you couldn't beat them back. But the one thing Einheit's builders did have going for them, was they weren't idiots. Everything in the city connected to some other part of the city seamlessly and efficiently. It was really the most impressive thing about this place if you were smart enough to notice it. Although the slums and the noble quarters didn't necessarily intertwine, it wasn't hard to get from one to the other. The thing that people like Sylph struggled with, was the fact that there were so many intersecting streets outside of the royal quarter.

It took Kiril about fourty minutes on foot to reach the Imperial headquarters from the Arena -only about a ten minute drive- but the exercise was always welcome. When he arrived, he showed the note to guards at the door who let him pass without any trouble them proceeded to Kaji's study. Knocking on the door, he waited until he heard a familiar female voice to enter the room.

Once inside he immediately saw the state that his brother was in and mild concern surfaced on his features, "How is he," he asked in an expectant voice as he walked towards the victim. "Where was the cut?" He spoke gently and his eyes looked unexpectedly gentle compared to his usual serious stoic nature. He knew that since she was here Heather had already checked it, but he just wanted to see where it'd been for himself. Altyre had said the location was a dangerous one, which was what he wanted to inspect personally. Not that he didn't trust the male's words but it was easier to assess the danger if he saw it first hand.