For a Song

Cetus strolled down the street of Oak Town. It felt rather strange to be walking without his mask. His golden eyes brought more than a few stares. However, his mask was associated with his identity as a Hidden Blade. He wasn't allowed to wear it into public. As he needed a few tools, he was hence walking through the town without his mask. The shark man was drawing a few other stares as well. They looked strangely heated but Cetus couldn't make heads or tails of them. Did the women - and that one man- want something? Were they angry with him? He looked down at himself. His legs were sheathed in blue cloth. The pants tightly hugged his lower body and were light, allowing him to move with ease. His chest was covered by a wife beater that showed off his powerful arms. Cetus had chosen to keep his feet bare as well. There was no telling if he would need to fight.

Speaking of which that was another reason he was in Oak Town. It was the best place to find ancient, powerful magics. Given that the White Court was rather recognizable, Cetus realized he needed another magic. When not in his Hidden Blade uniform, he could use the second magic to further mask his identity. It would need to be something unlike his White Court contract. Otherwise someone might draw a parallel. There must be some fairly ancient magic he could use. Perhaps it wouldn't be too much trouble to revive a Lost magic. It might even be fun to have two unique magics.

One of the girls was approaching him. Cetus frowned unsure as to what she wanted. His hand went to the knife on his back. Some mugger had tried to threaten him. Cetus was sure he was still alive somewhere. The man was merely missing two fingers on his right hand. A tiny snack. Hmmm, he was hungry. There were a few restaurants in town. He'd look into them after getting his woodcarving tools. The girl had stopped in front of him. She was wearing a flimsy top that barely covered her chest and pants that left nothing to the imagination. Literally, Cetus could see everything. It was disgusting. She was doing it for attention only and... and now she was leaning over. The shark man resisted rolling his eyes. For the gods, why did she dress like that? If she was going to make her chest fall out of her shirt anyway, she might as well have gone without one.

"So..." Cetus nearly gagged at her sickly sweet tone. That couldn't be her real voice. There was no way. If it was, he'd being doing her a favor if he killed her. "You're new in town. Do you need someone to show you around? Are you looking for something specific? Or are you looking to have a good time" She winked at him, fluttering her eyelashes madly. Cetus struggled not to scowl. He needed to appear friendly. Thankfully, now he understood what she wanted. He supposed he could. Maybe. If her voice wasn't so damn irritating and there was a point to it. Sex was just another tool. Cetus let the warmth bleed from his eyes as he smiled at the girl. She blanched stepping back a few steps. "Thanks but I found what I was looking for."

The shark man pushed past the idiot female. The store he'd been looking for was just ahead. Sanctuary. The horny mob wouldn't walk in there. It was full of wood dust and sharp objects. They'd be coughing when they tried to seduce him. Actually that might stir some kind of amusement inside his chest. He'd welcome the try if only to see if he could be amused. Cetus paused at the door. Was anyone following him?

WC: 642

@Pandora Dagger

Cetus wasn't expecting the tap whatsoever. He'd paused at the door to collect himself. Perfect opportunity for the Order of Law to strike. The knife's handle was cool against his palm. When a secondary, actually harmful attack didn't come, Cetus turned around. His eyes locked with one pale red eye. Then out of habit, his eyes dropped to look at the ground. Or more specifically, the woman's foot. She was missing at least part of her leg then. It must make it hard to fight. Clinically, Cetus took in the woman standing before him. Kimono, which hid her deficiency though he couldn't tell if it was on purpose or not. Cane for stability, might also serve as feigned weakness. Leather jacket with skulls, likely either an act of being tough, liking the look or a mixture of liking it and being a real badass. Long flowing red hair in a pony tail, either indicating confidence or ignorance for battle. A glass eyepatch--strange--covering what looked like a scar. She'd seen battle that was for sure. A physique--rather a chest and waist combination--other males might find intriguing. Or perhaps the correct word was arousing? Cetus wondered what it might be like to feel that way. His parts all functioned but nothing had really peeked his interest. Many males claimed 'it' had a mind of its own. Cetus had never been bothered by such inclinations. Those males were simply weak.

Cetus stopped his perusal of the woman, his eyes clinical. "Of course Ma'am." He opened the door to the shop for her. It was a strangely polite thing to do and it brought a small smile to his lips. The shark man debated taking things another step. One of his hobbies was woodcarving. Well sculpting with various materials. It would be quite the challenge to create a functioning leg for this woman. He could see a few functional designs already, provided she allowed him to take on such a task. "Mayhap are you looking for a leg, Ma'am? I happen to be quite the crafter, if I do say so myself. I'd be happy to help you out in exchange for a small favor."

His mind was rapidly working. If this connected to that and that went there, maybe... Then add a lacrima based propulsion system on top of it... the leg was already coming together. He wanted to make this thing. However, there were two things he needed. Cetus knew never to do anything for free. First, given his recent recruitment into Hidden Blades, he wanted a new magic to mask his involvement in the guild further. While this woman wasn't a powerful mage, she was still magical. A little help in obtaining a new magic wouldn't go amiss. Second, he needed to see the wound or stump or whatever she had that he could attach it to.

Cetus stepped into the shop after the woman. He stepped aside so he wasn't crowding her and put his hands behind his back. It gave him better reach of his weapon. It might have also made his muscles bulge a bit. "I would need to see what's left of your leg in order to make you a new one. The favor is merely helping me find a magic." Cetus debated the merit of acting helpless. It had somewhat in the past. The idea was discarded swiftly. He felt the flickering of some emotion deep in his gut. There was a... joyous anticipation of creating an all new leg for this woman. Cetus resolved to examine that feeling later. There was something else he should do for sake of politeness. "I also would like to know if you merely want a simple leg or if you would like me to add various features to it. I can do either if you wish. I can also surprise you if you'd like."

The shark man looked around quickly. Where were the carving tools? Ah there. He could grab them whenever. His eyes roved the rest of the shop. What else was in here that he could use? Some redwood would make nice outer sheathing if reinforced with a lattice of metal. There was also a lacrima-infused wood he could use. It was rather expensive but if it served as the core, Cetus might be able to make the leg autonomous. A few extra pieces could then power any extra features he might add. Cetus' eyes lit up when he spotted a barrel in the back corner. Stygian Duskwood was the name on the sign above it. The price was high but it looked like there were a fair few planks in there. He could make a fair amount of autonomous limbs using that. A smile, a real one, crossed Cetus' face as he looked back at the woman. His pointed teeth glinted in the light. This project was stirring feelings and giving him a challenge. He was going to enjoy it.

WC: 825
Total: 1,467

Unlike her expectations, the cyan-haired man did not only move aside but also held the door open for her to pass through. Somewhat of a welcome surprise after the man had seemingly taken a gander at her feet… or rather, the missing one of those two. He'd been subtle about it when looking at the floor after turning around, but Pandora had grown used to the gazing upon the things she was missing. They had a piercing quality she couldn't come to describe with words alone, but nonetheless, she always noticed when people stared. Not that she was bothered by it; so as she thanked him with a small nod and walked on, stepping into the store. It was then that the man suddenly spoke up again, obviously directed at her person, and mentioned whether her intentions were those of looking for a leg. Pandora slowed down and halted in the next three steps she took, a grin playing on her lips. She didn't turn around as she replied the man. “Do I look like a pirate in need of a peg leg by any chance, hmmm?” she said, looking over her shoulder with a mischievous glinster in her eyes. She was joking, obviously, but couldn't help it. This was the first time someone had inquired about her leg without prior knowledge of it, so in all honesty the warrioress found herself slightly perplexed at the same time.

”But,” Pandora continued after a brief pause, turning around to look the man straight in the eyes. “You got quite the eye to discern my needs from a mere glance,” Pandora spoke, not quite confessing that it was indeed the reason of her visit. Yet at the same time, she did not deny it either. “But your guess isn't entirely wrong either, as that's indeed what I'm looking for.” She didn't add more to those words than she deemed necessary, and looked the man up more intently, realising it to be the same man as she'd seen earlier on the streets. He followed her into the store and moved to the side, arms firmly behind his back. She had no idea what exactly the use of taking that posture was, but taking note of his well-trained muscles bulging as he did made her wonder if he wasn't trying to contradict his handiness with his brawn. The man then started talking about his plan; how he'd have to see her leg to make sure what to make, how she wanted the design to be, and what exactly he wanted in return for his services. The way he started looking around the atelier for wood, with a seemingly knowing, keen eye for the many variants present. It betrayed his passion and craftsmanship, which pleased the redhead.

“Although your offer sounds very tempting, I'd rather set some details straight first… what sort of magic are you looking for to learn, exactly? I wouldn't want to accept an offer I cannot return in kind.” she replied in kind, getting a bit closer to the man, and leant onto her cane as she watched him work his mind. ”And perhaps some names might be in order too, seeing that if I were to accept, that'd be the least of formalities we'd have to get across. I'd at least wish to know the name of the one who's gonna be looking at what's underneath these humble clothes of mine.” A teasing wink accompanied the grin that spread across her face, but be it only briefly before she got herself back in line. ”Anywho. Pandora Dagger, pleased to make your acquaintance, mister…?” she moved her weight a bit more and extended a hand towards the cyan-haired man.



[619]

Cetus frowned at the woman's response to his question. The look in her eye when she looked over her shoulder was confusing as well. What did pirates have to do with this? Or peg legs for that matter? Peg legs were for missing lower legs and he hadn't even seen the injury yet. Or was she referring to the strange glass eye patch she was wearing? Did that make her a pirate? Maybe this woman was a pirate lost far inland and looking for a leg to make it back to her ship. Cetus wasn't quite sure. "I merely extended the offer as I saw a chance to challenge myself, ma'am. I'm not sure what pirates or peg legs have to do with this situation. If you are a pirate or want a peg leg or a combination of both, I didn't mean to offend in any way. I can easily make you a  peg leg if you wish though it would be a disappointing use of my talents." Cetus finally replied, deciding the truth was the best way to go. His face was perfectly composed as he spoke, belaying a sense of seriousness to his words.

The woman's next words kept Cetus off balance. Had her previous statement been a joke then? It must have been. So he'd made a fool of himself already. He moved uncertainly from foot to foot. How did one interact with people? He wasn't quite sure he knew how anymore. This woman had thrown Cetus' entire self confidence under the bus with only a few sentences. After a brief pause, the shark man launched into his plans for her leg. It seemed the safest option at this point. No need to further embarrass himself. The shark man quickly forgot his embarrassment as he lost himself in his enjoyment of carving, of crafting.

The shark assassin listened carefully to the woman's concerns regarding his offer. That was all well and good. It was natural for her to have some doubts. What he found surprising was that the woman wasn't trying to wiggle out of it but was making sure what he was asking for was within her reach. Intriguing. She got a bit closer which nearly caused Cetus to cock his head. What was the purpose of getting closer? They were already at a respectable conversing distance. He ignored it so as to pay attention to the rest of her words. Names. Right, he'd forgotten that was a custom. What name to use? And why was the woman winking/smiling strangely? Was there something abnormal about looking at what you were working with? Perhaps she was trying to make this a carnal thing. Cetus wouldn't mind, she wasn't bad on the eyes. However, he knew what a woman's body looked like. It wasn't like he was a virgin. The assassin's mind spun trying to make sense of this woman and her words. Mechanically, Cetus extended his hand to take hers. "Caimileir. No last name. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Ms. Dagger."

Cetus shook himself once to get himself back on track. Those thoughts weren't helping. They were useless and therefore must be discarded. "The magic I'm looking for is a Lost version of the Ancient song magics. I've done a fair amount of research into the Lost version and I believe I've pinpointed the libraries where the tomes for it might be. Failing to find them there, there are two museums I've marked down and three ruins that hold the key to this magic. You need do little more than help me search. If we fail to find anything, I'll make your leg and be on my way without complaint. Of course, I will give you a way to contact me so that I can do maintenance and update the leg should you wish." Cetus pulled a map of Cedar from his belt. He'd marked down all the places he needed to visit upon it. Hopefully the Lost magic would be in one of the first few sites. He'd rather spend his time training in the magic rather than looking for it. Cetus spread the map out for Pandora to see. This would give her a better idea of what her end of the deal entailed.

"Take your time deciding. I've got all day." Cetus said despite his impatience. He wanted to find the Lost magic and work on Pandora's leg as quickly as possible. "Any insight you might have would be greatly appreciated by the way. I haven't been to this town before." Not entirely true given he'd assassinated some offical's son a week back or so. It had been a message to the official to pay his dues to his loan sharks or else. It had been rather disappointing with the target crying, snot and tears everywhere as he begged for his life. It'd been a favor to the world, putting him out of his misery. "Anything you want for your leg in particular would also help immensely in planning it out. While you take a look at that, I'll just be purchasing some supplies and some tools." Cetus slipped away, intent on grabbing as much Stygian Duskwood as he could. He returned rather quickly. The wood was in a large box he balanced on his shoulder. A bag in his other hand held the tools he'd come for. "Well? Will you take the deal or should I find another use for this wood?" It came out rather more brusque then he'd meant it to. He was making it clear he didn't talk to people all that often. Not a weakness he'd wanted to reveal. However it was too late now. Cetus peered at Pandora as he waited for her answer.

WC: 1018
Total: 2,485
2000/2000 for training thread complete
485 and beyond are for Free form

Cetus caught the small slip that Pandora let out. So she was either a guild mage or she'd been in a guild at one point. Adding that small tidbit to the little he knew, the assassin went back to contemplating the woman before him. Pandora Dagger. He'd heard the name Dagger before somewhere. He just couldn't quite put his finger on where. It was bothering him. His memory was one thing that he felt any flicker of pride about. Either he knew about the Dagger name in passing - meaning he knew next to nothing - or some kind of spell was affecting his mind. There was no other way he'd forget information.

When the shark man heard that Pandora would be accepting his deal, his smile was broad. There was no real happiness to it however. He hadn't felt even the smallest sense of that emotion. The satisfaction of getting a chance to kill two birds with one stone was the little that he did feel. His ears were keenly attuned to Pandora's voice as she explained things she knew. Her description of illegal activities possibly being required made him rather uneasy. Not because he was opposed to breaking in and stealing things. Rather, he was establishing the identity of Caimileir as an upright citizen who followed the law. Breaking the law would provide an obstacle to that objective. "I will ask an associate of mine, Mister Shark, to accompany you should you need to... take a more creative approach to obtaining these tomes. I'm not exactly the best at such activities and a black mark on my record might get me kicked out of Fiore." That should put him in the clear. He did however wish to look into the museums. There could be other items there that would be immensely helpful. "Looking into the museums won't do any harm though. If the tomes don't happen to be there, all the better."

As Pandora switched to the topic of her leg, Cetus' focus became razor sharp. He felt... excited about this project. It would push his limits. He'd create something new that no one had ever seen before. His lacrima cord would create real musculature within the leg. It was too bad he didn't have anything to mimic skin. That would be his ultimate goal as he continued to update the leg. Upon seeing the lacrima Pandora wanted in her leg, Cetus frowned. His designs would have to be adjusted in order to accommodate that. He gently took it from the woman. "I'd prefer to put the script and runes on it myself if you wouldn't mind. I only need a clear illustration of the runes and script you wish to place upon it. If you insist on detailing it yourself, I won't stop you. However, it'll make it harder for me to incorporate it into the leg at that point. The rest of your concerns I had already planned on implementing into the leg. It might not work exactly how you wish off the start but over time, we'll get it working in perfect order."

Cetus actually felt pleased when Pandora offered to show him her leg. That saved him from asking himself and making things awkward. Women were rather weird about showing their legs to men. The pat on his chest surprised the shark man. It was a bit more familiar than he thought someone at their stage of knowing each other might do. Not that it truly mattered to him. He followed her into the center of the shop. Looking around, he set out a log for her to sit upon. "I only have my workshop and if I bring you there, I'll lose my leverage as I start to work on your leg." He said gesturing for her to sit. Once she was sitting, Cetus knelt beside her. Her kimono was moved aside with quick easy movements.

The leg he was to work on was wrapped in bandages. The shark man pursed his lips. "Excuse my forwardness" He said his fingers quickly unwrapping her leg. The wound was new-ish by the looks of it. Three or four months by his best guess. The wound had been burnt shut as well. The puckered skin looked rather sensitive. Cetus placed his hands upon the skin. His fingers gently worked the forming scar tissue. "A nasty wound to be sure." He murmured more to himself than anything. He tried his best to ease the leg out to the side. If she resisted, Cetus made do. Anyone else might have found it awkward to be kneeling between the legs of a stranger. The shark man didn't think much of it. While he could find things beautiful, he didn't feel the same kind of passion everyone else did. He began poking and prodding the leg higher up. His hands gently held Pandora's leg. Only when he realized he was cupping Pandora's butt in his exploration did Cetus finally stop and move back. "I apologize again for my forwardness. I need to be intimately knowledgeable about your leg from where it connects to your pelvis to where it ends. I should mention this process will be painful. Connecting the nerves in your leg to the artificial nerves I'll be creating won't be fun."

Cetus got to his feet, brushing the sawdust off his pants. That was that. He now knew better what he was working with. "Shall we head to the museums? It'd be better to go before the crowds really get going. Too many people see you there and if you have to break in, they'll be able to point you out. Not what we want." He was making himself sound a little too knowledgeable about committing crime now. Yay. Without really waiting for an answer, Cetus headed toward the door. His chest flickered with some unknown emotion. It was impossible for him to even pinpoint what it was. The symptoms seemed to be a flushed face and a swollen... nether region. If it hadn't been for that second symptom, he might have thought it was embarrassment. Unless there was a way that emotions could twine together. That would make his learning process much more difficult. Cetus headed toward the first museum with a confident purposeful stride. No point on dwelling on those troublesome emotions.

WC: 1109
Total: 3,594

Cetus let only a small smile touch his lips at Pandora gratefully handing off the rune carving to him. His work gave him quite a lot of free time. While he did train heavily with a variety of weapons as well as hand to hand combat techniques, he still had plenty of free time. His lack of emotions hadn't lent to the social activities of his family. Instead, the assassin had taken up various crafting skills. Nothing too big, like a vehicle though he did eventually want to make it there. Instead most of his time was spent on things he could easily do without having to move. Handy skills as it were. This leg would be the biggest undertaking of his life. It didn't fill him with excitement like he hoped but that didn't stop him. This was a challenge that Cetus wanted to undertake. This leg could launch his cover story into a spotlight where he needed it to be.

The assassin was in a bit of a rush getting out of the store. He only slowed when he realized he was blowing his cover. Trying to recover some of his uncertainty, Cetus slowed down. His gaze began double checking signs. His feet started dragging more and more until he was at a stop. That was when Pandora caught up with him. Her scathing remark stirred embers of shame. His inexperience with cripples had led him to be overly rude. "My apologies, Pandora. When I get an idea in my head, I grab hold fast. I hadn't considered it might be rather difficult for you to catch up with me." The assassin gestured around them. There was an expression of exasperation on his face. "I was moving so fast, I managed to get myself lost as well. Perhaps you should take the lead from here, my dear." He bowed to her, trying to be the image of a perfect gentleman. Cetus knew he could also play this off as attraction. Walking behind someone always gave opportunity to look at their rear. Cetus didn't understand the attraction to that particular body part. Well any body part really. He did hope his emotions would eventually enlighten him to the mystery.

Pandora's question struck Cetus. He'd entirely forgotten about that. A stupid mistake. A costly one too that could easily lead to disaster. "A fair question, Pandora. Uh... perhaps a code phrase would do? A little one-two sentencing. That way he can recognize you as well." Cetus tapped his chin. What could he use for this code? "He will say 'By the autumn moonlight, beauty beyond compare is revealed.' To which you will reply 'But the beauty beneath values more than the surface revelation.' That should suffice. Not something you easily let slip out or pair together easily." Cetus winked cheerfully at her. Perhaps the flirt was the best way to go with Caimileir. Deam had always told him 'you catch more flies with honey than vinegar'.

The museum was quite magnificent. Cetus took time to make it look as if he was admiring the outside. In truth, he was looking for quick exits and structural weaknesses. When Pandora's palm hit his butt, the assassin reacted without thinking. One hand wrapped around her wrist. The other was grasping a hidden dagger. It took less than a second to realize there was no threat. His fingers swiftly released Pandora's wrist as she winked at him. Her teasing statement was rather confusing. Was she interesting in him? Or was this something people normally did? The assassin decided to play it off coolly. "I'm coming." He hurried up the stairs. As he passed the woman, Cetus slipped his arm around her waist. "But be careful the beasts you poke, darling. You never know when one of them might bite back." The assassin placed a quick kiss on her cheek before continuing into the museum. Deam had always told Cetus to play things off like that. The demon's insistence on training made a little more sense now. It had actually come in handy.

Cetus checked the maps of the museum inside. The recent ruin acquisitions were on a prominent position on the second floor. Eyeing the stairs and the lack of easy upward transportation, the assassin turned back toward Pandora. "Well, Pandora, it appears like what we're looking for is on the second floor." The assassin let a devilish grin cross his face. "You know what that means." The woman was in his arms before she could protest. Her cane dug painfully into his chest. Not that it bothered him. Pain was a normal part of his existence. Best eh could do was acknowledge it and move on. Cetus carried Pandora up the stairs. He was careful with her, taking every precaution he could. At the top of the stairs, the assassin set her back down again. "Thank you for the pleasure" He said softly giving her a wink.

Cetus didn't cast a backward glance as he headed toward their target. There were several books among the collection. Some were nothing more than journals or storybooks. Not what Cetus wanted. He quickly moved on to the next few. Those were a bit more promising. The words were taken in carefully by the assassin. Butterfly in the sky, I can fly twice as high. Just take a look, its in a book, its Reading Rainbow. So the first song read. Cetus wrinkled his nose. What kind of wording was that? More so it seemed rather excessive for a spell to make yourself fly. The second one was just as strange. Yo, Danny Phantom, he was just fourteen when his parents built a strange machine. It was designed to view a world unseen, he's gonna catch em all cause he's Danny Phantom! It continued but Cetus pulled away from that one as well. It was aimed to fighting ghosts and had a tendency to injure the caster's body from the description. The final songbook read The time has come, to awaken him. I call upon the ancient lords of the underworld to bring forth this beast and Awaken! A demon summoning song then. Not what Cetus was looking for whatsoever.

The assassin sighed looking around for Pandora. This museum was a bust. They'd best move on to the second one. The song spells here hadn't filled him with much hope for what they would find. Would there be more of the same? Had this entire search really been in vain? Cetus hoped not. Even if it was a bust for magic, he had at least met someone interesting. Not only that but someone willing to give a brand new invention a shot. That at least might be worth something. He'd only see in time.

WC: 1128
Total: 4,722

Cetus chuckled softly at Pandora's soft admission. That was something he liked in people. Wait, had he just laughed spontaneously at something? His fingers briefly touched his lips in wonder. Mirth. Somehow Pandora's admission had caused mirth to blossom. How odd. "Luckily, I've got some paper here for you." The assassin had grabbed a few pages from the shop. He needed to write down Pandora's dimensions. Those of her leg that is. Though the other dimensions might be helpful. It would help to figure out how to balance the strength of the leg. An inquiry would need to be made about it later. Right now they were focusing on the museums. After pausing for a moment, Cetus handed a piece of paper to Pandora. It had the phrases and helpful annotations on who said what.

There was fascination at the change in Pandora when he picked her up. Clearly she hadn't been expecting it. The yelp was a natural reaction. However, the sudden timidness, the loss of her tough girl attitude was unanticipated. Cetus struggled not to peer down at her the entire journey up the stairs. What was it about him carrying her that made this woman change so much? The assassin decided to leave Pandora to her thoughts once he set her down. It wasn't fair to pry into whatever had her sunken so deep into herself. Even with his inability to feel much, Cetus always felt uncomfortable when someone tried to dig too deeply. He left the blushing busty beautiful babe while exploring what the museum had to offer.

More humorous emotions emerged as Pandora took an unorthodox way down the stairs. Cetus actually let out a deep belly laugh at the words she shouted out. There was also an insane urge to show her up or at least match her decision. However, jumping off the second floor would reveal a little more than he wished. Disappointment bubbled up at that thought. So many emotions in a short period of time. Perhaps he could let the veil down this once? To celebrate of course. It was natural to celebrate a large break in a puzzling mystery. Cetus hadn't felt this much since... The assassin tore his mind away from those thoughts. Losing it here wouldn't accomplish anything. Before his logical side could kick in, Cetus threw himself over the railing. A few people screamed behind him. Just to show off, the assassin did a flip in midair.

The landing of his spectacular leap was a super hero landing, one foot on the ground, one knee on the ground. Cetus landed next to Pandora as she scolded? perhaps it was more of a light telling off. A teasing maybe? There was no way for him to read the intention. Strange how emotions were needed to truly read emotions. The shark man made a show of getting up. Groaning, shaking out his leg, laughing a little bit. "That is the last time I try to match your crazy stunts." He said teasingly as he rubbed his knee. "Nearly broke my legs. It's not as easy as everyone makes it look." He shook his legs out a couple more times. A pleasant smile was plastered onto his face. For once, the smile looked authentic. It was tinged with real emotion despite those rapidly disappearing for the assassin.

Cetus slipped an arm about Pandora's waist as they walked. Ah so that was the dimensions of her waist. Impressive. Most women struggled to keep that kind of waistline. Coupled with the muscles he could feel and then that chest, Pandora was a beauty for everyone to behold. Except perhaps Cetus. He couldn't really appreciate it without sculpting the planes and curves and edges in his mind. It objectified the beauty, removed all emotion from it. "I was thinking we could visit the other museum. Except it might be a better idea to hang around it longer, make a... what is it people would call it? A date? That's it. We'll make a date of it. To throw off suspicions of course" Cetus murmured into her ear. To anyone watching it would have appeared like two lovers having an intimate conversation.

Pandora's sudden turn tore his arm from around her waist. There was a brief flicker of something. He decided not to pursue it. He'd learned the dangers of pursuing emotions with Astrid. The girl had gotten too attached too quickly. Then she ended up in Hidden Blades. Cetus was waiting for a knife to be plunged into his back. As Pandora disappeared with the attendant, the assassin raised an eyebrow. The name Dagger tickled his memory for some reason. Perhaps it held more weight than he realized. Regardless, it was something to look into another time. For now, he'd wait for her return.

Cetus had begun sketching out ideas for Pandora's leg when the mage returned. He favored her a large smile, placing the papers back in his bag. The news the mage brought him filled the assassin with excitement. So much excitement that he hugged Pandora. The feeling of her muscled body coupled with the softness of a woman didn't fail to add to his excitement. There was more emotion in his body then there had been in a very long time. Perhaps tight pants wasn't the best idea. That was against her stomach. Cetus tried to kiss Pandora's cheek. Emphasis on tried. His mouth missed spectacularly, landing on the corner of her mouth.

The shark man took a step back immediately. His hands rested on Pandora's waist. "I apologize. That wasn't... I..." He didn't make mistakes. Not like that. A light blush rose in his cheeks as he struggled for the right words to apologize with. "That was unprofessional of me." Cetus managed finally, removing all contact from Pandora. That seemed the best course of action. "You don't know how long I've been searching for this magic. To have it so close at hand... plus the prospect of building a new leg for you... I got a little over excited." Not that she could miss that fact if she looked down at all. The image of his excitement was still plain to see. "Please forgive me for such a brutal break in protocol. I enjoy flirting with you but if I overstepped my bounds, please feel free to strike me. It was uncouth what I just did."

Once the exchange was over, Cetus gestured to the door. "Shall we? I have rented a workshop, outside of town, where we can pass the time until nightfall. I'd rather not have anything dramatic done until the fall of shadows. I need a few more measurements from you in order to properly make your leg as well. I'd prefer to make use of the time we have." The workshop wasn't really rented but it kept his cover story in place. It was barely used so it would look as if he'd recently moved his things into it. The assassin led the way from the museum. He made sure to stop, double check, seem unsure with many of the turns on their way. Cetus even stopped at the wrong workshop on purpose and got directions to the proper one. He apologized to those who owned the shop with a tinge of embarrassment on his face.

Upon reaching the workshop, Cetus opened the door for Pandora. "After you." The inside of the workshop was dimly lit. A variety of machines accompanied the space, all covered in white sheets. A large sturdy table dominated the center of the room. It was littered with various mechanisms. Blueprints and sketches also covered the table. Cetus waited for Pandora to take in the room. Then he moved to clear off the table. It was evident that the man had set his bag down but also that he'd removed his shirt. Defined muscles were in the open for appreciation. Cetus' body was covered in various scars as well. None too defining - he'd had those removed - but more than usual. The assassin smiled over his shoulder at Pandora. "I hope you don't mind. I'm a bit more comfortable working like this in a workshop. Plus its only fair given what I'm about to ask you to do."

Cetus cleared his throat. There was no good way to ask this. Perhaps an explanation would keep her from walking out the door with his request. He distracted himself by organizing the stuff he was placing to the side of the table. "In order to make the leg function properly, I need your dimensions. All of your dimensions from head to toe. It's easiest to make those measurements if you're... well done to your underthings. I would do the same to be fair but I'm not sure if that would make you uncomfortable. Plus, I don't usually wear underwear so..." Cetus scratched the back of his head. Moving on. "If you're amiable, I would also like your weight but that's not required. The leg will function well without it. Anyways, with your dimensions, I can get a prototype up and running today or tomorrow so you don't have to rely on that cane, um..." Now he was babbling. What was going on? Wasn't this taking the embarrassment or desire or whatever, a little too far? Cetus didn't know. It simply felt natural as he talked. Perhaps that was part of the problem. Cetus waited for Pandora's response, steeling himself for an angry woman.

WC: 1582
TWC: 6,304

At Pandora's comment, a small smile curved Cetus' lips. "As you wish." His thumbs hooked into the waistband of his pants. Slowly, the assassin made as if he was to pull them off. With the overall tightness of the fabric, it didn't do much more than slide them down a few inches. A few inches was enough to give a tantalizing glance. Cetus resolved to ignore any emotional turmoil henceforth. With this bit of teasing, things he wanted hidden would be revealed. Pandora might enjoy that view but he didn't want to risk it. Besides, there was something else that was bothering him. A face floated about his mind. Not a full face only fragments, pieces of a face. Something he could barely grasp like a forgotten memory. It was a woman's face. She felt important. The feelings Cetus had experienced thus far paled with the thoughts of her.

Cetus tore his mind away from the woman. That was something to be explored later. Possibly. If he felt the need to feel anything. Watching Pandora walk to the door, Cetus sighed heavily. He should have expected that. No logical woman would bare all to a man she'd just met. It didn't matter what he was offering. Even if he'd been a perfect gentleman, Cetus doubted Pandora would have stayed for that request. He'd have to find another way to finish the leg. There was a promise made. So shall there be a promise kept. The click of a key made Cetus start. He peered at Pandora's back. What was she doing? With Pandora's next sentence, Cetus bit his tongue. His muscles tensed. There were several more locks to employ to ensure no one entered. However, with Pandora standing in front of the door, Cetus couldn't engage them. His tongue kept behind his teeth too. There was an almost anxious emotion that any word from him might ruin the situation.

As Pandora walked back toward the shark man, Cetus tried not to move. For once, his logical thought process wasn't helping. He didn't know what to do, what to say, what to think. A gorgeous woman was approaching him. No, this woman was placing her trust in him. That was rare for Cetus. Most in his line of work didn't trust anyone. It was dangerous to do so. Even when you did it was usually after years of working together and gathering tidbits. Yet, here was a woman that had barely met a man, hadn't gotten to know him, had every reason not to trust him and yet was willing to do so. It made Pandora nearly glow in the assassin's eyes. And her clothes weren't even off yet!

The kimono coming undone robbed Cetus of breath. Almost anyways. He wanted to offer help watching Pandora struggle. He even took a tiny step forward. There was something that held him back. Perhaps the dual sides of Pandora that he'd seen today. She was both fiercely independent and surprisingly vulnerable. This was one of those times it seemed best to let her be independent Instead, Cetus managed to say something. "I'm deeply humbled that you're putting your trust in me. It isn't something I'm used to, being trusted. I'll endeavor to be worthy of your trust. That being said, please forgive my staring in advance. You have a beautiful body." Stare he did, once the kimono was off. Pandora had the marks of a warrior. He'd suspected given the story of how her leg was lost. This wasn't what he'd expected though. It was altogether attractive to the assassin.

Pandora's words and seemingly unconscious reaching kept Cetus quiet for a moment. A tender feeling welled inside him at her touch. Cetus gently caressed each of her cuts, bruises, and wounds. "It would be impossible to shame a woman such as you, Pandora. This body is that of a warrior. It's undeniably attractive to me. Something that could get awkward with how low my pants are now." He smiled slowly at his little joke. It was close to becoming a reality. Whether that was unfortunate or fortunate remained to be seen. The tender feeling in his chest was swiftly morphing. It was becoming a raging fire of what was probably passion. Cetus hadn't ever felt anything like it. Yet somehow it was a familiar feeling.

Pandora's words caused Cetus to shiver. His arousal was now apparent and putting on quite the show for his lady friend. Carefully, the assassin took the coat from Pandora. Striding past her, he hung it near the door. He stayed facing the door. For once, the assassin decided to follow his emotions. Strange though they might be, emotions sometimes felt right. "Where I need you, dear Pandora, is astride me. Riding for everything you've got as we work out this passion between us." A deep breath didn't calm him down. There was truly only one thing that could. Cetus turned around slowly. He smiled at Pandora, letting his pain tinge the action. "I'm sorry for being crass. I thought I could handle being alone with you or that this, whatever it is, would fade. Instead, I find my attraction only growing stronger. I want you as you can see." The gesture downward was unneeded. He'd nearly escaped his pants entirely.

Cetus ran a hand through his hair. He looked down at the ground as if ashamed. On some level, he might actually have been. "I'd understand if you didn't wish to take this relationship there. I'm not a wholly great prospect. Traveling around, doing whatever I please, spending the money my parents left behind. There isn't much going for me. If you don't want me, then please just say so. I'll act professionally from here on out." There was a twinge with his lie. Something inside Cetus didn't like hiding the truth from Pandora. A new reaction given Cetus couldn't remember the last time he'd told the whole truth. "However, if you're willing, I'd like you to get up onto the table. I want to worship every inch of your body before taking you to the room in the back where hopefully we can pass the time pleasurably. Would that be...amiable to you?" He looked up, nervously stepping into the reach of Pandora. His hands clenched at his sides. His desire to touch her warred with common sense. If this woman wanted to take things there, she needed to say so first. If not, Cetus would put his shirt back on, pull his pants up and be the perfect gentleman from here on out.

WC: 1097
TWC: 7,401
TTWC: 9816 + 5401 (-2000 for training thread) = 15,217

She'd not meant for it to come out like that; words that had supposed to remain but a mere thought. But they'd slipped her lips and she was even further from home than she had been before. Even more to her surprise Caimileir had taken it upon himself to indulge in her fantasy with a teasing gesture; one that gave her more of a few than she would've expected. Lucky for her, her pokerface was as mighty as her family's name, allowing her a straight face with interested eyes trying their best not to steal a glance. She needed it for what she was to do next. At the door she had felt it happen. The silence falling as she seemingly walked away; the disappointment in his sigh. But no words to stop her from leaving, no pleas begging her to stay. He was giving her the freedom to walk away, which only reinforced her idea of putting her trust in him more. Had his intentions been ill-natured they'd already shone through by now, which was why she left the key on the lock. One could never be too certain, even when things felt right. Comfortable. Yet after she confessed she was prepared to indulge his request, the silence remained, but the air within the room had changed. There was this type of tension she couldn't quite put into words; one that was still trying to pace through its possibilities trying to reach for the boundaries of what was allowed and what wasn't.

Pandora returned to his side rather easily, and she talked as he listened, watching her. Although being stared at wasn't exactly her cup of tea, seeing his gaze rest upon her felt like a wordless compliment she was all too happy to take. Even when she was struggling with her clothing he managed to read the mood enough to leave her to struggle; in her weakened state she didn't want to lose the independence she had always had. Pandora was too proud for that. If she needed a helping hand the redhead would ask for it, and unless being taken off-guard, would rage about those who tried to bypass that selfmade rule. Caimileir not helping Pandora was respectful in her eyes. Caring, in a way. Him inching towards her but keeping himself from helping added to that feeling. Even in this 'predicament' did he show he was every bit the gentleman he was claiming to be. His words too, when he finally spoke, apologizing for his staring. Pandora couldn't help but blush slightly as both took a gander at one another's body, carving it into their mind. Like she gently touched his scars Caimileir had gone to caressing hers, his touch ticklish on her warm skin. Yet she enjoyed it every moment it lasted; how his slender fingers ran past her cuts and bruises. How his somewhat rough fingertips summoned goosebumps all over her body. She couldn't help but wonder why this man's touch felt so familiar, why it didn't make any alarm bells ring inside her mind because a stranger was touching her. His words touched her deeply, and the small joke at the end made her chuckle with him.

However this time it was her turn to remain silent. He had a point. A point that dig itself deeper into her mind when he helped himself to her kimono and took it off her arm, heading for the door himself. It stung seeing him move away, and for a moment it crossed her mind that this might have been how he had felt moments earlier when she'd pulled that off. The kimono was hung next to the door, but Caimileir kept facing her with his back for a few moments more. To her, those moments lasted an eternity. Backs only meant farewell, and that was the last thing she wanted right now. Inside her mind a little voice was begging for the man to turn around and look at her. His voice lingered in the stale air as his words slowly nudged their way into her mind, trying to be comprehended. Her heartbeat picked up its pace when it did. Pandora couldn't even bother with blushing at what Caimileir had said. The only thing that mattered to her right now was the fact that he felt it too. This whatever between them that neither seemed to be able to ignore. The signs were there, tension slowly building, and the way they were currently lacking clothing as is made it nearly inevitable. There was attraction. A need for passion. The fickle flame had started blazing.

Pandora didn't need to look down, and only kept her eyes pinned on his face. A lump cluttered her throat, allowing for single words to leave it rather than sentences. "I," she tried again. "I mean,". Her voice was too silent to properly hear. After blatantly blurting out his true feelings Caimileir said he understood if she didn't want to. If she didn't want him. It would've driven her up the wall if she hadn't been doing her utmost best to keep herself from jumping him then and there. Rather crude of her despite her upbringing. Pandora wanted him. There was no denying that any longer, but it seemed like she had to be the one to say it. Even now he was every bit the gentleman. He nervously moved closer, looking up again from the ground. She could see it in his eyes that he was looking an answer. Her answer. And she was more than prepared to give him that reply; or rather, be that reply he was looking for. Wanting to smile, yet she couldn't. All she could was stare. Ponder. Whatever was attracting her to this man was stopping her from just "being", and started to make her "live". It was silently building, like a brewing storm, and now it had reached its peak, it was erupting. Flaring up like lighting tearing through a darkened sky. The redhead, despite many reasons not to, was prepared to cast every single one of those reasons to the wind.

Caimileir needed her on the table. While she had still to give her reply about the boundaries he'd been inquiring about. There was a way to make that clearer than crystal clear could be to the cyan-haired man. Pandora took a step back and leant against the table, her buttocks perfectly aligned with the table's top. In lack of a shirt to pull him closer with, the redhaired woman resorted to hooking a few fingers into Caimileir's pants, pulling him flush against her. If anything her assets would make for a soft landing. A gentle smile accompanied the needy look of passion in her eye as she spoke in a smoky voice. "Forget about that leg for a bit," she pulled him in, inching closer to her face. "Because right now I need you... to get me on that table." The latter had already become an inaudible whisper, as her lips had sealed his with a passionate kiss by the time the words could leave her lips. "I need you" was all that needed to be heard. Her desire. His. For now, all she wished as to indulge into what this handsome craftsman had to offer her.

~ ♤ ~ ♤ ~ ♤ ~

[1216]

Cetus wasn't sure what had Pandora staring. His brief moment of emotional understanding had deserted him. He was stuck wading in an ocean impossible to traverse. There was nothing to keep him afloat. The assassin wondered if anything was as terrifying. Many reasons not to pursue his emotions were starting to become evident. The lack of control, the emotional turmoil, the distractions at the worst times were at the top of a very long list. Yet a whole new world spread itself out before him. The shark-man wanted to grab his redheaded beauty, throw her onto a carpet to begin a song about it all. There would be a romantic evening afterward where he told her the truth about himself.

That little daydream popped quickly. Not by anything Cetus did. Rather because Pandora hooked her fingers into his waistband. A very different daydream rapidly took place as he was pulled into her body. His arms came up around her instinctually. An animal lust was rapidly rising with the redhead's actions. The look of desire in her eyes brought Cetus' own desire to the forefront. His eyes took in her face hungrily. Her words barely registered to his ears. As their lips sealed together, Cetus' hands moved to lift Pandora from the ground. "I'd be careful, little lady." Cetus cautioned huskily once their lips broke apart. A rumble came from his chest. It was an odd mix of growl and purr, a primal noise of desire. Cetus couldn't ever remember making it before. "I may be a gentleman on the streets but I'm an animal in the sheets." The assassin set Pandora on the short end of the table. An arm of gentle pressure urged her to lay back. There was a wicked grin spreading across his face. "Now let's see what I can do about worshipping this temple of a body." He kissed her once more and got to work.

[Fade to black]

Cetus lay naked next to his latest lover. It was an odd feeling. As he gazed down at her, there was almost something humane beating in his breast. His fingers brushed the red hair back from her face. She'd be cursing him in an hour or so though. They'd been gentle. They'd been rough. There hadn't been a real break until five minutes ago. That was only because Cetus wanted to let her rest. She'd be sneaking into an excavation site in a few hours. It wouldn't do for her to be sore. The shark-man slowly climbed out of the bed. "The shower is through that door if you want it." Cetus gestured to ensure she knew where to go. He glanced over his shoulder. There was a roguish smile upon his lips. "I'd join you but I still crave your body. We'd only begin again and someone has books to steal in a few hours." His eyes swept down Pandora's body, alight with sexual want.

It was difficult to continue into the workshop. Harder than Cetus ever expected. Of course, he'd never had so many rounds in so few hours either. He wondered if Pandora was ovulating. That probably should have been a question asked beforehand. Then again, Cetus wasn't entirely sure he wasn't a mule. The cult created him out of a test tube after all. There was a chance he wasn't fertile. The assassin debated sticking his head back in to ask. Probably not the best time for that. He was still packing major heat. Pandora simply needed to twitch a finger. They'd fall right back into bed again. Or the shower. Or the counters. Or against the wall. Mmmm that position had been enjoyable. Maybe they could try it one more time...

Cetus shook his head. Now wasn't the time for play. He had a few hours to get a preliminary leg going for Pandora. It would be far from perfect given he didn't have her measurements... technically. Though if he made an imperfect leg, it would force Pandora to come back to his workshop. Where ever it might be at that time. The cool-headed assassin suddenly found his mind wandering toward the possibilities. Like what if they added another woman? Would Pandora be into that? Would she put up with it, unable to keep up with his sexual capabilities? Would he need a ring for her finger? Was it wise to do such a thing while they didn't know each other well? Not to mention the cult still being on his tail. Cetus almost moved back into the other room. He found comfort in Pandora's arms. Comfort and a sense of belonging. Both emotions he wasn't used to. Emotions that he craved.

It took hitting his toe on the worktable to bring Cetus back. He cursed loudly. There might have also have been stumbling around. Once he righted himself, Cetus used the pain to help him focus. He began softly speaking. Tools began flying off the walls. Materials lined up neatly on the table. Whatever he needed floated around the assassin and the table. Cetus glanced at the doorway. "Pandora? If you come into the workshop, please stay in the doorway! I don't want anything to hit you." He called out. His fingers danced on the table while he talked. Cetus was already pulling together the barest semblance of a leg. It was an outline for now. Something functional for Pandora to use. It wouldn't be nearly as complicated as the one he planned to make. Cetus' brow furrowed in concentration. Everything was focused on making this leg.

WC: 927
TTWC: 9816 + 6328 (-2000 for training thread) = 16,134

Pandora rested her head upon Caimileir's muscular chest, that just like hers had been heaving heavily only moments ago. Now, all she did was feel the man's slightly-faster-than-usual heartbeat pounding underneath her, yet hearing it brought her peace of mind. The warmth his body radiated was comforting, and she'd closed her eyes in the process as she laid snug against him. The redhead only bothered opening them again when she felt Caimileir's fingers gently brushing a strand of hair off her face, and met his gaze with a gentle smile. She’d enjoyed her time with him so far; the leisurely moments, the silly moments, and… well, those moments too. When Caimileir left the bed, Pandora rolled to her side, only half-covered by the blanket as her eyes followed his every movement. Gods he had a cute butt. Very sexy. With or without complimentary tight pants. She wasn’t even slightly disappointed when he slipped back into a pair of pants. Instead she leant on her elbow and watched as he walked towards the door, gesturing the way to the bathroom if she wanted to take a shower. When he mentioned why he wouldn’t be joining her, she chuckled. ”That’s too bad, I could’ve stolen much more than just a few books if you’d join~” she gave him a teasing wink, She’d already grown to love that roguish smile of his.

When he’d left the room, Pandora laid back down upon the bed, pulling the sheets up to her chin and sighed deeply. Now she was alone, it dawned upon her what exactly she’d been doing, and a sense of panic struck her, vividly spreading throughout her body. Gods, what was she even doing? She had Kessicia, so why was she… well, it’d been stronger than herself. An urge. A need to. It had felt right, surprisingly. But she couldn’t quite bring that as an explanation to the beautiful Dessiertan, now could she? There was a whole lot of guilt coursing through the redhead’s veins, and it only became more apparent the more Kessicia stuck to her mind. She cupped her visage in both hands, shielding her face from the outside world, if only for a while. Just the thought of losing her because of her stupid infidelity got her on the brink of crying. She could feel the tears slowly welling up in her eyes. Pandora shook her head and rubbed the lingering tears from her eyes, pushing herself up to a seated position. No. Getting emotional wouldn’t solve anything right now. What happened had happened, Pandora couldn’t change anything about what had transpired between her and Caimileir. After she’d gotten his books and finished this request, she’d seek her out. Ask her beloved for forgiveness. But for now, she would focus.

Pandora reluctantly threw the covers off of her, and moved to the edge of the bed. Rising her hand above the floor, Pandora materialized her cane before her, having left it back at Caimileir’s atelier earlier. She needed it to move around with, and after the amount of rounds they’d been at it, her body could definitely use the extra support. It took her quite a bit of effort to get to the shower, but once she was underneath it she could feel how her muscles relaxed as the hot water ran down her body. The red-haired magus took her sweet time showering, most of it just spent looking up, letting the hot water wash her troubles away. Hearing his voice calling her from his workshop got her to pop her head from underneath to listen, only hearing half of what Caimileir had actually said. Curious, Pandora got out and dried herself off, realising her kimono was currently out of reach; still neatly hanging next to the door Caimileir had put it at. Unlike her cane however, said kimono did not hold the right link to retrieve it through her requip, quite literally leaving her bare and clothless. Not wanting to throw on any of her fighting outfits however, Pandora rummaged through her pocket dimension until she found something more leisurely; a coat-like yukata, only covering her up to her thighs. She gave up on reapplying bandages and put a pair of panties on instead, leaving extra clothing for another time. Slowly she made her way to the workshop, stopping in the doorway to watch as Caimileir worked.

Tools levitated around the atelier, and took his warning to heart to remain where she was. The cyan-haired man himself was bending over the table, his fingers and hands dancing over its surface as if they were handling a musical instrument rather than crafting tools, yet the redhead could only watch with gentle eyes as he worked. Pandora leant unto the door-frame, her head resting against the wooden frame as she stood there watching, silently, not wanting to interrupt him in his creative process. For a short moment she saw the reflection of someone else overshadowing him, like a ghastly appearance. One that made the warrioress almost jolt forward; but as soon as she moved, the image faded back to Caimileir, leaving Pandora with a sense of confusion. Again… why did she keep on seeing Rhadamanthys in Caimileir? They weren't similar to one another, yet somehow he kept on reminding her of her deceased lover…. Were they connected in any way? A sigh left her lips as she sunk back against the doorframe, her eyes pinned upon Caimileir in gentle, yet somewhat absent-minded gaze. A smile silently crept upon her lips. She didn't know why, but Pandora wouldn't let it get to her just yet. She'd find out eventually. For now, she'd just enjoy his company for as long as they still were together.




[954]

Cetus didn't respond to Pandora's parting statement. He couldn't. Not unless he wanted to dive back into bed with her. His body ached for it. His heart ached for it. Only his head remained firmly where it needed to be. For the most part. Right as he entered the atelier, Cetus said over his shoulder, "You stole something more the moment I met you, Pandora." Whatever heart he had was hers. She'd filled his life with emotion he didn't know he could feel. Emotions that tugged at his heartstrings. A feminine face floated up through his mind. It wasn't one he recognized. Yet there was a familiarity to it. A feeling, warm and cold, filled his chest at the sight of it. The assassin put it from his mind. Now was not the time for such things.

While Cetus had many rare materials in this workshop, he used more common ones for this leg. This one was meant to be functional only. A test run of this concept. Only the barest semblance of what it would eventually be. His fingers danced over the metal. His mind filled in the blanks in the design. Things floated to his hands with only a thought. The leg rapidly - in his mind - took shape. It didn't look like a normal leg. Not yet anyway. He'd prioritized function over fashion. It was lightweight to prevent it from slowing her down. The foot was more of a crescent, meant to give her better push off. He sharpened the edges of the crescent to make it combat-ready. Nothing too fancy. Pandora couldn't use it too much without shattering the lower half of the leg.

Cetus sat back from the table after two hours. The tools and materials floated back into their places. It was only then that he noticed Pandora had been watching. "Ah... um, I'm sorry. I should have given you something to do. I get very absorbed into my work." He gave her a small smile. The leg was done. All that was left was to attach it. The assassin looked around for somewhere she could sit. Looked like the table was still the best option. Cetus rummaged around his workshop for a cleaning cloth. "If you give me a moment to clean it, I'd like you to hop up on the table again." He paused, looking over his shoulder at her. A mischevious smile crossed his face. "Not for more fun. Just attaching your leg. This will suffice for stealing the books. Not much else." Cetus stood with a cloth in his hand. It took him a minute but the table was cleaned. The leg went off to the side.

"Come hop up now. If you need help, I wouldn't mind putting my hands on you again." He said with a sultry tone. Cetus helped if Pandora asked for it, running his hands over her unnecessarily. Otherwise, he allowed her to manage the hop on her own. "Now I'm not going to do a full nerve connection for this one. You'll be able to feel it but there should be no pain feedback whatsoever." Cetus said, becoming professional. That was his plan anyway. His hands moved her clothing out of the way. Fingers lingered over her scars. Unable to help himself, the assassin leaned forward to kiss her thigh. "Lean back for me." The prototype got hoisted into position. It was a simple connection job. Brief pain was the most she should feel.

Once everything was ready, Cetus licked his lips. A bead of sweat rolled down his temple. His tongue darted over his lips once again. Some strange feeling made him all jittery. "I'm... I'm not sure I can do this." He admitted finally. The assassin noticed, despite his feelings, his hands were steady. Typical. "I don't want to hurt you... and if this is done wrong, you'll be in immense pain. Even with something as simple as this." Cetus lowered the leg to the table. "I'm sorry. I know you're really looking forward to having two legs again. I know we only just met... I care about you though. I don't want to see you in pain." These feelings he was at least. His friends had evoked these things. Pandora made them more intense though. Cetus raised a shaking hand to cover his eyes. He didn't want to disappoint Pandora either. How to reconcile these confusing - annoying - feelings?

WC: 740
TWC: 9068 -2000 for training thread
TTWC: 10,770 + 7068 = 17,838