Far From Warmer Sands [LazyKitsune]

[Ze Blitzkrieg]

It is exciting, to find yourself sat where Yahzin had once. Even though you had arrived somewhat late in the day, the festivities would undoubtedly bring many people flocking to the city. All you needed to do was ply your charm and see coin switching hands.

True to Ranabi's words, many of those who made their way up the roads seemed to be laborers. They were not the most profitable sort, given their occupation, but it was rare for people to go about anywhere without at least some spending money on hand. You were careful not to call out to them, lest the guards ire and attention be brought back to you, but after a while, a handful do approach. They are mostly young men, weary from their day of work, but intrigued enough by your camp to come see you. Remembering how things had gone with the guard, you make sure to give each of them an ample view of your chest, and more than a couple find themselves drawn to the deep, soft valley of your bosom. It must be something of an awakening for a few of them; while Nords held certain ill beliefs of the Khajiit, seeing such a desirable one in person, plying such sweet words, must have certainly shaken some of those beliefs.

You manage to sell a handful of smaller items from your eclectic cache of starting goods, a few knives, some colorful beads to braid through their beards, and at least one new pair of boots. Though you make no great deal of cold off it, you manage to bring in your first few fistfuls of septims, and the promise of return customers, though you get the idea they're more interested in you than they are on purchasing more knick knacks.

Perhaps word spreads from these few customers. Not too long after waving off a couple loggers does a duo from inside the walls come out to greet you. They're both women, one quite a bit younger than the other, dressed in the classic Nord way. The older, shorter woman, a blue eyed brunette, gestures to your camp as she approaches, her head turned towards her companion. The other is much more in line with the tales you had heard of Skyrim's people; she is tall, with pale blonde hair and seem to brighten her blue eyes. But though she stands tall, she seems to shrink within herself as she stands, her arms crossed, a discomfort that betrays someone of such a strong build. It's in stark contrast to the confident, almost authoritative ease that the darker haired woman carries herself with.

"Come, now, Hretha. If Eorda's stock does not please you, then we will surely find something here," The elder says, before turning to address you, "Are you the head of this little affair? We've come looking for fabric. The finer the better, and in quantity enough to make a rather... generous gown. Do you have anything of that nature?"

You recall that Yahzin had been kind enough to gift you with several long bolts of silk. You had heard the Nords preferred hardier fabrics, but he assured you that when it came to small caravans, a limited stock of finer goods was the way. Trading in bulk textiles was for larger, more established groups. Kharjan looks on with interest at the duo, but says nothing. If you were uncertain of how best to pitch them, his advice would almost certainly be on hand, but perhaps you wished to try your own hand at up-selling them on the things. They did look to be rather well-off.

[Lazy Kitsune]

Kharaya played her part well, meeting the gaze of each visitor with a wide eyed wonder that was easy to display - as it came from a place of truth, each new face Kharaya spoke to was yet another chance to prove herself as a merchant and learn more about the locals from first-hand experience. She sat cross legged, with her hands clasped so that her arms pushed her breasts together, exaggerating their already pronounced display even further. The furred hills of her cleavage almost seemed to try to spill out from her dress, showing the soft give to them with how her neckline squeezed them lightly back into the confines of her clothes. She would smile and make polite conversation, or at least what little was needed between transactions, even as men would stare at her chest, acting flattered that they would take the time to speak with her and making no effort to hide how happy she was each time they reached an agreement. She knew often times Yahzin and the others would feign to be displeased with a deal to try and encourage a better price, but Kharaya was finding luck in showing delight when customers revealed their interest in her wares, as it seemed to encourage them to linger longer or consider returning. Even those that only browsed without paying she made sure felt welcome and informed that she was pleased they were interested enough to take time out of their day to speak with her and see her goods.

Though Kharaya felt things were going quite well for having just started, they had made little coin so far, with most of their customers being farmers looking for simple goods. Things took an interesting turn, however, when two women approach with a curious interest in softer, finer fabrics. A more valued good, and one Kharaya was certain they had a limited stock of. Kharaya smiled up at the women as she listened to their request, sensing an opportunity to make decent coin, although at of the corner of her eye she noticed Kharjan observing and can tell he seems to be having an idea, although one he currently keeps to himself.

"Hmm, today is your luck day, yes? This one believes she has what you are looking for. Please, just a moment while I check with my companion." she says, before turning to Kharjan and gesturing for him to approach. Though she speaks to him in Ta'agra, she leans in and hushes her voice a little anyway, even though it was highly unlikely any human would know the language of her people. "Kharaya knows that look on Kharjan's face. You have ideas, yes? Kharaya senses an opportunity here and believes we have silk in stock to sell these women, but she would like to hear what it is on Kharjan's mind that has gathered his interest."

[Ze Blitzkrieg]

As you approach Kharjan, he gives you a little grin, perhaps realizing that you had picked up on his interest. He leans back against the heavy trunk used to safeguard you coin, scratching at his chin thoughtfully as you ask his opinion.

"This one is more curious as to how Kharaya to handle these buyers. You see how they carry themselves, yes? They are women of means. Only the finest will do for them. But why not buy their silks from the merchants inside? Why come all the way to treat with Khajiit? Kharjan is thinking it is because the younger is not so happy to be having to wear the finery of her elder," He posits, giving a polite smile behind your shoulder to the waiting two before turning his attention back to you, "If Kharaya is to make much coin and please Yahzin, she will need to learn not just how to sell her wares, but make her customers want to buy them. To use smooth words to make them feel good for having made the choice Kharaya wishes them to make. This is the way of our business."

[Lazy Kitsune]

Kharaya nods, glancing back to her waiting customers. "This one is pleased to know you are keeping an eye on proceedings. Kharaya would like to hear how well Kharjan believes she did after the exchange." This one focuses her discerning gaze over the younger of the two women, sizing her up and considering what may look good on her. One of the most vivid things about this Nord was her striking blue eyes, a colour she shared with the older woman - perhaps her mother. Something to compliment such a lovely feature feels best, yes? A blue to match, or perhaps some white. Both may be options worth the customer's consideration.

Kharaya fetches bolts of both colours and returns to the women. "This one thanks you both for being patient. If fine fabric is what you need, then what better than silk, yes? Khajiit have other colours for you to look at as well if you wish, but, ah... forgive Kharaya for being presumptuous..." this one tilts her head to the side and down, looking bashfully as she gazes up at the tall, younger woman. "Kharaya noticed your bright blue eyes and fair hair and immediately thought of these colours to go with them. Take a look."

Kharaya sets the bolts before the women on the furs below. "This one takes it you have been having trouble finding something to your liking. Perhaps fine silks do not feel right for you. Something off? Or perhaps something lacking? Kharaya thinks the problem may less be with the silk and more... something else you wish to express. Perhaps there are other adornments you would wish to consider for designing this gown. Kharaya may be able to help with this to." She is makes sure to address both women as she speaks, but is always careful to gauge the reaction of the younger one. Kharaya feels the older woman will state clearly what she wants, but figuring out what the younger one may be interested in felt like the key to this sale.

[Ze Blitzkrieg]

Though your words are spoken to both of them, the older woman seems content enough to allow the lion's share is directed to the younger, instead casting an appraising gaze to the bolts of fabric while you lay them out. The younger one, Hretha, if you recall from their earlier chatter, also looks them over, but with no such interest. You get the idea she'd rather be anywhere but your humble camp in that moment, a sad thing given you had managed to ingratiate yourself so well to the other Nords.

"They're... nice, but I don't know. It's all a bit... soft." She manages to offer, though she had not so much as touched the finely woven textiles.

"They're meant to be soft, Hretha. It's a wedding, not a battle, though you've certainly tried your hardest to make it one," The dark haired cuts in with exasperation, and cut straight to the truth of it she does. It seems as though you were in the business of selling a wedding dress. Or, at least, the materials for one to be made of.

"I'm not trying to... just," The blonde seems cowed by the frustration in her companion's words, slinking back into herself, "It just doesn't feel right."

Pinching the bridge of her nose, the brunette looks to you once more.

"I don't suppose you have a love potion to go with those silks? Because at this rate, my dear daughter will end up nude at her own wedding before she's settled on a color, much less a fabric. As if she's the first woman in the world to have misgivings over a match." It's easy enough to see why the tall, fair thing to her side seems so beaten down; clearly the two have been quarreling for a while over it, and over such a sensitive thing too. It would be a true test of your diplomatic maneuvering to try and steer them into a sale without overstepping your bounds, but a necessary one. Difficult customers were not something even veterans like Yahzin and Kharjan were immune to.

[Lazy Kitsune]

Oh dear. This was quite the tricky yarn for this one to unravel on her first true day of being a merchant. Kharaya tried to think of what Yahzin would say. No doubt the well travelled Khajiit would have a story to spin at a moments notice that would have the two of them eating out of his paws and leaving with enough silk for five dresses and a promise to return for more. Sadly, those words did not come as easily to Kharaya, so she would have to come up with her own approach for dealing with this.

"Ah, so these are misgivings of the heart and not of the materials, perhaps? Kharaya has wares for many things, but she cannot sell an easy decision." Kharaya purrs in thought as she runs a claw lightly along her jaw and down her neck in an idle back and forth. "That does not mean Kharaya cannot help. Pretty women have come for a dress, yes? One for a special occasion that weighs heavily upon your shoulders in particular." she says, nodding towards the blonde. "No doubt all sorts of worries are at play in your mind. This one is familiar with such feelings. This one cannot tell you what to do, but she can help you find out what you want, be that a dress or anything else. If customer says silk is too soft, then silk is too soft. Though it is very pretty, so I think we shall keep it here for now so as to not forget it."

Kharaya steps up to the younger woman and begins to walk around her, letting out a purring hum as she appraises her up and down. "Kharaya needs not know the specifics of your concerns if you do not wish to share. Instead Kharaya will share her own thoughts and let you pull from them as you wish. This one confesses to a vision of fur. Perhaps along your shoulders and neck, and framing the chest where the rest of the dress will take over. Kharaya is no stylist, but the look feels like one you would feel more at home in. If there is something there that works for you, perhaps there is more to explore that will make you happy. At the very least, you can leave with all you need for a dress of your liking, yes? One that helps you feel more like yourself."

[Ze Blitzkrieg]

With the younger woman already so uncomfortable, you needn't worry too much for offending her. Instead, your careful words coax her into the discussion in a way her mother, domineering as she seems, might not have been able.

"I... suppose fur would be nice," She mutters in agreement "I always liked the pelts I'd collect with father. They were warm, and felt nice. But I'm not sure my... intended, would like it. He's more..."

"Imperial than Nord, yes," The mother is quick to step in once more, her arms crossed impatiently, "But so is his entire family. You'll need to get used to fine silks and gold trim if you're to be a Battle-Born, Hretha. No matter how much you wish it weren't so."

The blonde nearly wilts again, perhaps feeling so defeated than she'd seek comfort even in a trader, as her icy blues look down to you for sympathy.

"You're a traveler, aren't you? Are furs and hide so despised in Cyrodil? Surely the men don't care so much about what their wives wear..."

[Lazy Kitsune]

Kharaya hides the emotions that rise within her mind at the mention of Battle-Born. She knew calling on Ranabi to help answer questions about Cyrodil fashions would be the swiftest and wisest approach for the current matter, but worried how Ranabi may react to hearing the name Battle-Born come up in context to marriage, if indeed she did have possible feelings for one of their sons. The family could be large, yes, this may matter not. But the last thing needed for both a sale, and for Ranabi's already shaken mood, is the reveal of even more displeasure with the situation at such a tactless moment.

"One of Kharaya's companions knows the ways in Cyrodil very well." Kharaya says, needing to keep the conversation going even as her mind tries to settle on how to approach Ranabi about the matter. She would be honest, yes, but wanted to be gentle in case there were feeling that needed delicate care. Perhaps it was best to handle a conversation with her out of sight from the customers, just in case emotions ran high.

"Kharaya will speak with her, see if she has advice to give. This one will be just a moment. In the meantime," Kharaya turns and beckons for Kharjan to approach. "Kharjan here will help you with deciding on colours. Kharaya understands its a contested matter, but if furs represent something true to you, then this one thinks its important to show it to the one you wish to spend your days with. From what Kharaya understands, you do not live in Skyrim if you have an aversion to fur, so if worn well it will help you look strong as well as beautiful. Kharaya will return shortly."

With Kharjan stepping in, Kharaya walks calmly but swiftly towards Ranabi in the camp. She gestures for her to step with her just a few paces further away from the customers. "Ranabi, we have customers with specific questions about Cyrodil. Kharaya thought you would have the expertise to help answer their questions. They... also seem to be aware of your friends, the Battle-Born. It would seem one of them is betrothed to one of the family's men. Kharaya does not wish to presume anything of it, but she also felt you should know."

[Ze Blitzkrieg]

Kharjan perks up when you gesture him over, and strides easy to engage the duo with conversation while you excuse yourself to the back. Ever dutiful, Ranabi sorts through your eclectic merchandise, placing things in neat stacks so that they might be retrieved quickly and on demand when the customer requests them. Bakhum stands vigil over the inventory, though he says nothing as you approach, instead appearing disinterested in what you speak of, if only out a professional courtesy.

"You want me to... oh. I see." Ranabi takes the briefest of breaks to parse what you told her, a rare sight to see her so still for a time. She makes a few steps to the side, peering around your tent to get a view of the customers, before returning back address you.

"That's Thelma Grey-Mane and her daughter. They're another one of Whiterun's clans. When I was last here, there was talk of bad blood between them... I suppose a marriage would make sense to quell that," She fiddles a bit with the hem of her dress, "But that's not my business. I'm just a trader, not a Nord, and certainly not a member of their clan. It doesn't matter who she's meant to marry."

Many talents could be attributed to Ranabi, but the ability to hide her feelings well was not one of those. Though she had not confided such to you, it's not hard to see that Kharjan's assumption was likely right, and she had some desires for the alleged heir of this great family. Given you had yet to meet the man himself, perhaps it would be better to bide your time, and see whether such feelings were mutual. The bride, if nothing else, did not seem especially happy with the match. Perhaps the groom was much the same.

"I will speak with them. See that they walk away with lighter pockets than they came with, unless that old cat has already managed to up-sell them on a veil." Ranabi offers, keeping true to her nature of hiding feelings with business, though you could easily deny her the right if you wished to give her time with her thoughts.

[Lazy Kitsune]

"If Ranabi would like to talk, Kharaya's ears are always open." This one considered suggesting speaking with the Battle-Born that has seemed to have won Ranabi's heart, but it seemed likely to be ill received at this very moment. Though later this evening, Kharaya still planned on entering the city with Ranabi and visiting the Battle-Borns then. That would be as good a time as any to try and pull back the curtain on what was going on behind this marriage. If there was still happiness to be found for Kharaya's companion, then she would seek it out. For now though, they were making a sale, and so they had to act with that in mind first. "Ranabi's assistance will be appreciated. The young Nord seems uncomfortable with a fair few elements of it all. Kharaya has been trying to find a middle ground that they will both accept. This one is unsure of what that bodes for the wedding, but at the very least we can make sure they leave here with a nice dress."

Kharaya returns to the two women with Ranabi by her side, stepping back into her position before her tent. "This one hopes Kharjan was of assistance to you. Ranabi here can speak of Cyrodil fashion, any questions you have to ask. This one thinks there is yet a dress that appeals to all involved to be found here. It is taking shape, yes?"

[Ze Blitzkrieg]

"Kharjan is always of assistance to such fine ladies. Especially ones who are so close as kin to him. He is something of a grey mane himself these days, no?"

With you and Ranabi apparently prepared to take over, Kharjan bids the duo adieu, and returns to playing witness to your tribulations from the back of the camp. Ranabi seems almost as uncomfortable as Hretha, but goes about her duties regardless. She offers a few insights into how, despite their historical differences, Cyrodil and Skyrim were not too different culturally. Solitude, another Jarldom within Skyrim and the seat of the High King, had apparently taken to the Imperial fashion of things quite well. While the elder seems to scoff at the mention of the city, it does a least a little good in soothing the nerves of the younger. In the end, she agrees to purchase the bolts, reasoning that she could use as much or as little of it as she desired when the time for tailoring came.

The haggling had always been interesting to watch, seeing how Yahzin would start at almost comical prices for his goods before negotiating down and down, giving false concessions until his customer had gotten the notion they had struck a good deal. It was unfortunate that you were able to engage in it yourself; happy to simply put the matter to rest, Thelma reaches to her belt and produces a very heavy looking pouch indeed. She pours and pours, small disks of gold piling on the rug before her, until there must be a couple hundred of them rolling about before you. A tidy profit, although all that you made was profit, given the fact you had not paid for the stock.

"That should be enough, correct? Come, Hretha. Let us go before it gets dark," She says the taller, younger woman, who flashes you an apologetic look as she collects the coiled rolls of silk.

"Thank you for the help, for what it's worth... I'll repay you someday, if you're still around."

[Lazy Kitsune]

Though Kharaya had been preparing to haggle for much of the conversation so far, her disappointment in not being able to do so was greatly offset by the pile of coin left behind by Thelma. "Thank you kindly for your business. May your roads lead to warm sands." Kharaya says, bidding the two of them fair well. She also adds on a little extra for Hretha. "Kharaya wishes truly that you find the happiness you seek, whatever that may end up being."

Once the women had left, Kharaya could not contain her excitement any longer. Practically bouncing on her feet, she calls over everyone to come count the latest profit. "The first large sum earned by this caravan. This is a cause for celebration, no? This one could not have done it without you all. Kharaya is most grateful for each of you." As giddy as Kharaya felt, she still kept enough of her senses to check on Ranabi quickly. "Perhaps the arrangement isn't quite what we think it is. We will have a chance to find out later. Kharaya also hopes to lighten Ranabi's spirits when we enter the city. She has been looking forward to seeing you smile as much as she has wanted to see beyond those gates. Is Ranabi still up for the venture into Whiterun?"

[Ze Blitzkrieg]

Ranabi, a bit lost in her thoughts, perks up at the mention of entering the city. She tries to hide her own curiosity, although it goes about as well as her trying to hide, well, anything.

"I'd still like to, yes. It's been a while since I've visited any Nord city, let alone Whiterun. Let's get all this gold packed away, and we can-"

Kharjan waves her off at the mention, shaking his head.

"Do not be worrying about the gold. Kharjan has been counting coins since the others were still but cubs. He will see it to the chest, yes?" He asks, his ever-present grin strong as ever, "And he is sure this one will be keeping him honest all the while, hmm? Always the watcher, he is."

He, of course, refers to Bakhum with that statement, who simply chuffs in response, his arms folded across his chest. Though you valued time spent in his quiet presence, you were not so sure he would find happiness within the walls of a foreign city. Perhaps, if all went well and Ranabi had found herself a partner for the night, however... some company could be had of Bakhum once you returned to camp, unworried about who might have been disturbed by the sounds to follow. Ever greater motivation to try and see the nervous young woman find happiness.

"Well, if Kharaya is okay with it, I'll go freshen up a tad. It's been a long day of travel, and I'd like to at least fix my fur..."

[Lazy Kitsune]

Kharaya is pleased with Kharjan volunteering to manage the coin counting. It helps Kharaya and Ranabi get to their exploration even sooner. She smiles towards Ranabi as she mentions freshening up, giving her a nod. "Go ahead, we'll head to the gates as soon as Ranabi is ready."

Letting Ranabi have time to prepare herself gives Kharaya time to follow up on her own interest. She approaches Bakhum, smiling softly. She reaches up to stroke a few fingers through the fur of his cheek. "Bakhum has been watching over Kharaya and the others so diligently. Kharaya will be sure to reward him greatly for this tonight." She leans up to plant a kiss on his cheek, going on the tips of her toes before settling back down properly. "This one has been thinking of Bakhum a lot all day. The warmth he left her has not been forgotten." she places a hand over her stomach. "And she looks forward to feeling more of it later. Until then, would you like Kharaya to bring you back anything from the city?"

[Ze Blitzkrieg]

Bakhum rumbles happily when you stroke his cheek, turning his face so he can plant a soft kiss upon the palm of your hand. When you step to give one of your own, he leans in close, letting your muzzles touch in a small, sweet embrace that belies the affection between you both. His fingers brush the softness of your stomach as well, reminding you just how much larger even his hands are to you.

"This one will wait for Kharaya in his tent. He will be looking forward to her company tonight," He says, his voice so deep and rich you could lose yourself in it, "Bakhum would ask Kharaya return with mead, so that Khajiit may drink between couplings. It is not so sweet as Kharaya's voice, but Bakhum enjoys it even so."

You had heard the Nords enjoyed even their alcohol sweet, and when shared with such pleasant company, you could only imagine partaking in it would be a grand addition to your evening. You spend a few more tender minutes with Bakhum before Ranabi materializes from her tent, having changed her clothes from the dress she wore on the road.

It's made of a soft material, cotton or linen perhaps, a nice deep blue with white accents. It looks good on her, highlighting her figure which, while not so full as your own, is still quite enjoyable to look upon. In particularly, she has quite a pair of hips on her, such that she could have done well as a dancer, should she have been born in a different life. You also notice she's done up her hair, which had previously run long and free down her back, into a tidy braid which runs down the side of her face, a few colorful beads within it. She's even put on some kind of fragrance; she smells sweet, though you struggle to place exactly what. Flowers, perhaps? Or maybe a fragrance wood.

"I'm ready to go, if I'm not, erhm, interrupting anything," She says, "Hopefully the guard shift will have changed with the evening and we'll find easier passage inside."

[Lazy Kitsune]

"Mead. Yes, that sounds good. Kharaya will be sure to bring enough for multiple couplings." Kharaya says, nuzzling in against his touch. She turns once Ranabi arrives, looking her over, but stays close enough to Bakhum's side for the intimacy of their moment to be evident. "No interruption at all. Kharaya sees Ranabi has dressed herself up quite nicely indeed. Looking very pretty for her Nord friend perhaps? He would be blind to not appreciate it." She departs after giving Bakhum a second kiss and gently running of her hand along his arm.

As Ranabi and Kharaya make their way up towards the front gate, she finds herself nodding along with Ranabi's sentiment. "Yes. At least one of the guards from before seemed more focused on his job than on Kharaya and Ranabi's... persons. Hopefully the guards on duty now are more like him and less like his troublesome friend. Though if there is trouble, please allow this one to handle it. Kharaya does not want anything to ruin Ranabi's night, and she can take a little fondling without much trouble. This one does not know what Ranabi knows of Kharaya's past, but she is used to dealing with men with such simple and predictable desires." Kharaya hoped things would be simple, and if not, no complication would be more extreme than the search she experienced earlier. If both guards were desperate to give someone a pat down, hopefully she could persuade them to let Ranabi by untouched while they searched Kharaya instead. Kharaya was hopeful enough that it wouldn't go that far, that she failed to consider the risks of it actually going even further instead. Her mind had little room for such concerns at the moment. Visiting this city was exactly the kind of thing she had wanted to do in a long time. And now she had a task at hand to try and ensure Ranabi's happiness.

[Ze Blitzkrieg]

The two of your wander a short way along the wall, to the main gatehouse, where you come along the duo of guards from earlier. The redhead sneers at your approach, though he doesn't bother moving from his position against the heavy doors.

"What is it now, cat? Looking to sell your trinkets inside? We don't let your kind sully our markets," He says, his arms crossed over his chest, "Best be going, unless you think you can convince me? Might be that I'll listen, for a price..."

His lecherous gaze falls upon you once again, and like a number of Nords over the course of the day, your cleavage is his prime interest. It seems he hasn't forgotten his earlier interest, and it's not too hard to make the leap and assume what his 'price' might be.

Ranabi, however, seems to bristle at the implication. She puffs out her chest, less to emphasize her breasts and more to make herself look imposing.

"Our presence was requested by Oleg Battle-Born. If you insist on delaying us, you will have to be the one to explain to him why we were unable to answer his summons." Her tone is almost eerily similar to the proud, imperious way that the Grey-Mane woman from earlier in the day had spoken. The Nord scowls at her, looking to his fellow, who exchanges a silent look, before returning his gaze to you both.

"Damned Battle-Born. I should have known. Fine, you want to rub elbows with traitors? Go. But cause no trouble, or I'll haul you both to the cells myself."

He turns to the gate and hammers on it twice with his fist. There's a long pause, but soon you hear the sound of creaking, and the doors push outwards, dragging along the road as they swing open to allow you passage. Huffing at the guard, Ranabi walks passed him and into the city proper. When you go to do the same, the guards brushing by you, grumbling as he does.

"I'll have you one way or another, cat."

[Lazy Kitsune]

Kharaya is impressed, as well as stunned, with Ranabi's swift change in demeanour at the gates. She would laud her for such well chosen words, but for now she simply went along as it seemed to be working quite well. She matched Ranabi's stance as the two of them walked through the gates. This one usually would have departed politely with the guards, even after a rude start to their interaction, however the veiled threats he directed towards her soured her at the notion. Kharaya felt best not to engage with the guard further at all for her own safety and instead directed her attention ahead, not looking back as they past through the gates.

When inside, however, she struggled to hide the wonder on her face as she began to look around. It mattered not how ordinary what was before her, whether she looked to a barrel or a cobbled street. All of it was new and exciting because it was from somewhere she had never been before. She felt that same excitement from when Whiterun first came into view swelling within her once more, only this time it threatened to burst free of her lungs in a joyous cry of delight. She managed to contain herself, but a purring not too dissimilar for the beginnings of a kettle beginning to boil began to emanate from her muzzle as the two of them stepped further into the city itself.

[Ze Blitzkrieg]

Ranabi pauses her stride to give you a few moments to enjoy the scenery. You had heard that Skyrim was a harsh and wild land, full of untamed wilderness and the most frigid of chills. But behind the tall walls of a proper hold, things seemed almost... homey. The familiar tink tink tink of a forge nearby to the gates mixes with the with the chatter of some nearby guardsmen, who seem more interested in their conversation than the two Khajiit passing through the gates. The cobbled streets are clean and pale, snaking ever further up the bluff onto which Whiterun was built. Far into the distance, against the twilight, you can even see what looks like a mighty fortification governing over it all.

"The Jarl's hall. They call it the Dragonsreach. I've never actually been inside, but they say it's one of the biggest and finest in all of Skyrim," Your companion tells you, crossing her arms over her chest, "Perhaps one day we'll get to see. I hear the Jarl is a reasonable enough man. He's even got a Dunmer among his personal guard."

Given her familiarity with the hold, Ranabi takes the lead, bringing you across the well-kept streets and up the central avenue. You can see shops of varying kinds lining the way, some of them with lanterns still burning in their windows, but others not. There's a certain joviality in the air, with the occasional pair of youths darting by, full of laughter and cheer. Even the older residents seem to be in good spirits, with couples wandering the evening hand-in-hand, and groups of fair-haired warriors jesting with each other as they push each other along towards the central square.

A square which you soon arrive at. It's a cozy thing, circled by a variety of businesses and establishments. Within the ring of proper shops there are stalls and wagons, where lesser merchants peddle their wares. Were you not Khajiit, it might have been that you could have done your business at one of the makeshift stands. A deep, well maintained well sits in the middle of it all, providing water to all those in need.

"That's where we'll be going," Ranabi points north just a little further, to a tall, three storied structure opposite the road you came in one. "The Bannered Mare. It's the biggest tavern in the city, and they sell beds too, if you want one for the night. That's where most people go to unwind."

It's almost comical that she of all people would say so, as she begins to fidget with her dress, smoothing any perceived wrinkle and brushing any stray strand of hair back into place. You remembered Kharjan's words. Ranabi would need to find some unwinding within the tavern, for certain.

[Lazy Kitsune]

This one's face was lightened by a smile entire length of the walk down the central cobbled path through what seemed to be the heart of the city's markets. She find herself humming a joyful melody without even meaning to, perhaps catching ear of a tune flowing out from within the very building they were approaching and mimicking the basics of its euphonic beat. Though Kharaya kept close to Ranabi, her stride was a half step slower, drifting just behind her companion as she took in what views she could from this lower point of the city; whether staring in awe at the silhouette of the great keep of Dragonsreach against the dusk sky, or just observing how the locals spoke and made merry with each other.

A festive spirit was clearly in the air, and it began to catch within the eager enthusiasm of Kharaya's heart. With Kharaya already so fervently intent on aiding Ranabi in having a celebration of sorts for herself tonight, it took little to encourage her to try and spread that same spirit to Ranabi. Taking her travelling companion's hand once they reach the market square, she pulls Ranabi close to her and takes a few slow, sweeping steps around the well. It was not a proper dance she had brought Ranabi into, although the rhythm of the steps and curve of their turn did echo the sentiment of a dance, a warm up to the possibility should they find the time and the place to dance in proper - and in Ranabi's case perhaps some encouragement to join in in earnest. Though with the Bannered Mare standing just before them, perhaps all three could be found quite soon.

Stopping shortly before the steps up to the building's entrance, Kharaya grinned from ear to ear. "Come, Ranabi! This one wishes to taste of Nord mead. And perhaps we can find that friend of yours and surprise him with a visit, yes? Come, come. Kharaya wishes to see how Nords unwind." She pulls Ranabi by the hand towards the entrance, quickly darting up the few steps to the door and heading inside.