RP:Training Day (!)

From HollowWiki

Part of the Rise of Larket Arc


Summary: Kelovath, concerned for Josleen’s safety, set his mind to teaching her some self defense basics. Josleen entertained his lessons for all of 10 minutes before wiggling out of them. The couple planned on spending a pleasant day together, but the day soured when Josleen and Kelovath ran into Kyle, an anti-Kelovath conspiracy theorist and Josleen’s public harasser. Kyle also overhears Josleen talking about witches and a new conspiracy quickens in his mind.

(Josleen and Kelovath also talk Larket and Frostmaw politics to a lesser extent. Josleen also asks for a dog. Beware, Hollow.)

Larket Fort

The training field was less busy today than usual. Besides Josleen and Kelovath, there were many 4-5 other people, with only two of those being soldiers. The few others were simply watching the practicing take place. Josleen and Kelovath had just arrived, the paladin explaining beforehand what they would be doing. Fighting. Well, sort of. Training, in a way. He always thought Jos should learn some sort of skill to defend herself and thanks to the recent pickpocketing that took place, he had a reason that made sense. So, dressed appropriately (training leathers for Kelo and maybe something similar for Jos) the couple made their way to the field. A small circle was motioned at by the paladin, “We can start here.” Whether Josleen was up for this or not, he was going to at least attempt it. What he wanted, for today, was to see some interest or maybe even a bit of effort. He wasn’t expected, but trying couldn’t hurt. Hopefully. A staff was pulled from a nearby weapon rack and presented to Josleen by Kelo. He instructed her how to hold it properly to start with, then went on show how to hit with it. But, it wasn’t a full swing. Just a few, quick little jabs with the end of the staff. “See? Simple.” If she found it to be simple, then great. If not, well, he’d show her again, but with less…Interest than previously. The cheesy thing was for him to stand behind her, put his hands on hers, and slowly show her how to do as instructed. Cheesy, but maybe effective?


Josleen is not really up for this, as she has never been interested in combat nor fantasized herself as a woman who can kick butt. However, Kelovath insisted and the bard figured she can fake her way through one lesson. She dons the only pair of adventure-ready leather pants she owns, which really hug her hips, backside, and thighs. Her top is loose and breezy. Although she isn't a fighter, she is a dancer and studies his body as he moves. Effortlessly she mimics the soft taps of the staff with decent form and posture. Easy! She doesn't like dexterity, and under a no-pressure situation, she can follow choreography well. That's what this is to her, a dance. "That's not so bad. But how do you make it hurt?" She whaps the dummy a little harder and the sound if brief as she pulls back from the straw-body, rather than follow through with the whack.


The paladin watched Josleen as she mimicked his movements. She seemed practiced, but at the same time, this wasn’t particularly difficult. Her question was followed up with an outreached hand, requesting the staff back. With the weapon in hand, Kelovath demonstrations the proper way of making use of this weapon. A wide swing, smashing right above the stomach, but below the upper chest with a loud ‘pop’ sound. “Hitting here causes a loss of balance, as well as knocking the wind from their lungs.” He explained, pressing the staff against the spot to aim for. The weapon was offered back to Josleen, this time the man taking a few more steps back, as the attack needed more space. While waiting for the woman to practice the maneuver, Kelo took this moment to casually check-out Josleen. Casual, yes. But hella obvious, if she happened to see him. If she didn’t see him, his attention would be pulled away when she finally attempted her swing. If she did, well, he’d only smile and motion to the dummy, like he was patiently waiting for something to happen.


Josleen nodded along with Kelovath's instruction as if she knew it all along (she didn't). She mimicked his swing again, aiming softly at the sweet spot like teeing up a golf swing. Just before attacking the dummy with full force, she noticed his hungry gaze on her behind and smirked provocatively at him. She was about to stop the lesson and act on his lust instead, when he motioned at the dummy. Maybe he thought a women with some fight a little sexy and this was all a part of their play? She swung with all her might at the dummy and... it barely shook. The wood did not whoosh through the air, nor did it pop against the straw sack. Her upper body strength is laughably weak, despite her time volunteering as a nurse. Josleen laughed at herself a little bit, then tried again, harder this time. The straw barely moved. Again, no whoosh and no crack. She laughed louder and turned bright red. "The dummy is tougher than a person, isn't it?" Her technique was also flawed during her power swing, because with all her attention trained on the power she forgot the technique.


Kelovath silently watched as Josleen made her attempts at the dummy. The first swing went as he expected when seeing her technique. It was sloppy and ill-performed. But, that’s exactly what he thought would happen. The second swing was definitely stronger, but not enough. He waited a few moments before approaching. “Not tougher. Harder to move. A person can lose balance. Your swing was strong, maybe enough for the defender to take a step back.” Without the staff in hand, Kelovath mimed how to properly swing the staff, the most noticeable thing added was a step taken toward the dummy during the swing for added strength. “A single step forward I think would help. Just keep your own balance and follow through with the swing. Aim passed the dummy.” He mimed another swing and pointed at the spot to aim for that was a foot or so pass the dummy’s side. “Aim here, take that step, and use your hips.” A quick wink after he said hips, followed by a smile. “Okay. Give it a try.” He moved away, this time still within her view during her attempt. His eyes stayed on her, not the dummy.


Josleen repeats the swing, this time a little better, a little stronger, and with that necessary step, but still the staff does not whoosh or crack. What more, she knows this is wasted time. Is she going to practice with a staff several times a week? No. Is she going to carry a staff around with her when alone in public? Hell no. So while this is a cute way to spend the day together, ultimately it will amount to nothing. The courtyard is hot. The summer sun beats down on them from high overhead and sweat begins to bead on her face and down her back. Nope. She's done. Three swings and she's done. Kelovath did not pick a fighter, not a physical one anyway. She sets the staff down against the dummy. "Oh darling," she whines a little as she crosses to him, arms swooping in on either side of his waist. "I know you're concerned for my safety, but I think the staff is just not for me. Some women have a big dog. I was thinking it might be nice to get a dog. The house is so big, and when you're gone for the day I get lonely sometimes." Her hands stroke up and down the length of his spine just above his butt, where the spine dips in.


Kelovath thought some progress had been made with that last swing. But, it apparently was the last swing, as she set the staff down. He smiled, knowing full well that this training session was over. When she approached, his arms opened up and accepted her body and brought her in close. His attention, although already hers, is peaked some when she mentions a dog. And a big one at that. Never had a dog before. A quick laugh, "Maybe I should leave Cobalt with you then?" A sly grin. The weasel was a great mount and protective when needed, but not the best pet. Still, "He'd make a great pillow, don't ya think? All that fur." Which, after saying fur, kind of made the paladin realize how much work a pet could be. Cleaning, feeding, playing. Would be Jos's dog though. There were several questions that came to mind about her request, but instead, the man shrugged. "Do you have something in mind?" It was his hands now moving up and down the woman's back, but they would go -just- a bit further down than where the spine dips. Brief, then back up as he shifted the stationary conversation into a walk, his arm still around the woman's waist. They passed by the dummy, where he picked up the staff, casually checking the balance with two fingers, his eyes looking back to Jos.


Josleen scrunches her nose at the mention of Cobalt. "I would hate to come between you two," she teases. "Besides, Cobalt can't come into the house. He's too big. A big dog is still small enough that I can have him with me inside the house, or in the garden." When his hands slide over her rear, she sneaks a quick glance at the others in the training yard. Finding their attention elsewhere, she kisses and gently nips Kelovath's lower lip. She walks alongisde him, notices how he checks the staff and is a little aroused--not because staff-inspection is hot, but because the type of man who knows how to and would think to do that is a warrior, strong, the kind of guy she likes. "Not sure yet. Maybe I can go to the store tomorrow and have a look? My father used to say that with pets, you have to look in their eyes and find a kinship there. Pets choose you as much as you choose them."


Kelovath actually wondered if Cobalt could be comfortable inside of their home. Maybe worth exploring at a later time. When Jos wasn't home, of course. Her kiss was returned, the arm around her tightening some to show affection. Because the sneaky butt-grab wasn't enough. As they approached the weapon rack, the staff was easily placed back into the appropriate place, and the paladin, thinking that they were done here, continued to lead them both away from the training yard. The training session had only been about 10-15 minutes, but Jos wasn't a fighter and it was clear this wasn't her thing. But, Kelo wasn't going to give up. They'd make another attempt here eventually. "Really? And somehow I was lucky enough to get Cobalt's loyality." Joking at the expense of his faithful mount was easy and all in good fun. Kelo knew the bond they shared and if Cobalt could talk, surely similar banter could be share. "Did you want me to come with? Or is it going to be a surprise?" A slight hint of worry came across his mind, wondering if the dog would dislike him. Could make things complicated, but, a dog is a dog. How bad could it really be? "And, we should probably stick with one dog, Jos, ya know?" A grin, then a kiss on her cheek. It was about this time that they'd leave the courtyard behind and walk within the halls of the fort.


"Cobalt also licked a horse's arse, love. I wouldn't put too much stock in his decision-making." She winks playfully at her lover. To answer his question, "You can come along if you like. But if you're busy, I understand. Though in that case, it's hardly my fault if I come home with two. You really can't leave me alone for too long, darling. There are consequences." Her tone remains light and playful. "You know, I may not be cut out for the staff." [Or sword, or bow, or anything...] "But maybe you can teach me some self defense. If someone were to grab me in public, for example. Like if some man were to grab me from behind right now, what would you have me do?"


Kelovath laughed louder than he probably should have about Cobalt's horse adventure. That seemed like such a long time ago and the memory had started to fade. "Well, I may be busy, but I think I could squeeze in some time to double check your decision making." He was unaware of anything incrediably important that needed to be done council-wise, so finding time wouldn't be an issue. They continued down the hall, which appeared to be rather empty for this time of day. Smiling now, "Well, I suppose that depends on how he grabs you..." The paladin stops and positions himself behind the woman and slides his arms around her waist, pulling him against his body. "Like this? Or..." His hands slide down from her waist, moving back and to her butt. "Or here, maybe?" Normally, being within the fort, Kelo would have been more careful, but it seemed empty enough. Nothing wrong with some playful antics.


Josleen laughs sultrily as Kelovath manhandles her a little bit. She backs up against him and slyly looks up and down the hall to ensure no one is watching. With the coast clear, she turns a chin over her shoulder to look at him, and whispers suggestively, "Just like that. And what would you have me do?" Her hand slides over the front of his pants just as soldiers turn a corner and join their hall. They're within view of the armored men and Josleen pulls her hand and rear away quickly like a child caught with her hand in the cookie jar. She turns around so her back is to the guards, but Kelovath can see her face and tries her damnedest not to laugh.


Kelovath was about to make a few suggestions for this ‘self-defense’ lesson when the guards showed up. Right away a red flush hit his cheeks and as casual as possible, the paladin acted like nothing funny was going on. The guards, as they passed by Jos and Kelo, had a clear understanding of the situation, but said nothing. A few nods, which Kelovath returned quickly, and the men continued on with their patrol. When they rounded the corner, Kelo laughed into the top of Jos’s head. “Close one.” He said, although it came out muffled since his mouth was pressed against Jos’s hair. Feeling like that was too close of a call, the paladin suggested they continue this lesson at another time. Somewhere more private. “Doubt the council would enjoy learning that we’ve been taking liberties within the halls of the fort, huh?” It didn’t stop Kelovath from sneaking a quick grab of Josleen’s butt before they progressed with their walk.


Josleen pressed her lips to Kelovath's shoulder to stifle her own laugh. Once they've both calmed down, she asks, "You don't have any commitments until the afternoon, right? Maybe we can go home now and you can teach me self defense against burglars." She wiggles her brows suggestively and quickens their pace as though he has already agreed. As they cross the fort she sees a healer leaving the fortress sickbay and it reminds her of a conversation she recently had. "Oh, I recently met with Sabrina. We spoke a little about herbology and healing. She offered me a position in the healer's guild, liason for Larket, and manager at Ara. I told her I would think about it. I wanted to talk it over with you. What do you think? It would give me something to do, but I want it to be something fitting for a councilman's, uh, lady."


Kelovath did agree to her suggestion and followed closely behind her. He also saw the healer, someone he actually knew, and waved to them. The man waved back and the councilman shifted his attention back to Josleen. “You don’t need to fit in Jos. If it’s something you’d like to do, then of course I’m going to support it.” His arm slid around the woman’s waist before continuing. “But, I do think helping out with Ara would be good. Sabrina has been busy, it seems, with the guild, Ara, and now being on the council. She’d appreciate the help.” It would also gain favor with a person in power, but that’s not how Kelovath saw things. It would be Josleen helping Sabrina, Larket, and those within Ara. The positive outcome from that on the political side of things was lost on Kelo. He was happy that Jos wanted to help.

Larket Avenue

While Josleen also wanted to help and keep herself busy, the political calculus is never far from her mind. "It would look good too," she adds. "There's no downside. And I can make some friends. I know no one here... unless you count that guy who shouts at me everytime I go into the Red Ogre. I discovered his name is Kyle." Josleen has surely told Kelovath before about one of the men who is part of small mob that protests outside the Red Ogre. The man loves the excuse of activism to get in Josleen's face and shout at her for he association with Kelovath. Until recently, Josleen did not know his name. Now she knows he is Kyle, and Kyle has never touched nor harmed her physically, but loves to harass her verbally. "An old friend of mine was just in town, a warrior named Krice. He gave Kyle a real scare. Yanked him by the shirt. Kyle fled like the insect he is."


Kelovath nodded several times and remembered Kyle. A fool, but if that’s what was needed to get out of bed in the morning, then so be it. The name Krice sounded familiar, but hard to place. Since joining the council, there were too many names to remember. If he saw a face, everything would click. Krice was instrumental during the child abduction involving the fermin. The boy was dead by the time they got there, but none of the fermin survived it. Thanks to Krice. Kelo laughed at what Krice did, then nodded once again. “A good scare, but I’m sure Kyle will slither his way back to the front of the crowd in a few days.” They were almost to the gates of the fort now. “Friends would be good, I think. I know Alvina and Huds have moved here, but some more close friends would be nice.” Kelovath started to realize at that moment that he had no close friends. Not since Parsithius. Redovian. Even Jacklin. A quick wave to a passing guard, a nod to another. Marcel might be his closest friend, but the young boy is also a sworn protector. Obligated. The feeling shook and his attention broke away from his thoughts and went to Jos. “We should visit Ara sometime. I’ve been meaning to speak to Sabrina anyway. Away from the council.”


"I've been tempted to slap Kyle myself, sometimes. But I would hate for that to reflect poorly on you." Kelovath waves to acquaintances here and there, but Josleen has no one to wave to. It's a reversal of their times in Xalious and Frostmaw when it was Josleen who waved to everyone and Kelovath was the stranger. He mentions Sabrina again. "Oh? What about?"


He shrugged, “I think most would agree with your decision. But, I think you’ve got a few days of peace before he’s back.” A thought of maybe sending a few knights that direction came to mind, but that was probably too much. It was just one guy and Jos, although not a fighter, has ways of handling situations like that. “An upgrade to Ara, actually. Larket is known for its powerful military, but I’d like to build on the healing aspect of wars and battle. Something larger than Ara. Well known that the Healer’s Guild can also make use of. I’d like Sabrina’s input before approaching the council.”


Josleen's brows lift slightly in alarm, eyes widen. "Oh, I wonder how Artia would feel about that." The bard has been in Larket just over a month and after meeting with Artia and Sabrina, has already picked up on the rivalry there. "May want to speak to both of them separately so they both feel valued. I sense a competition between them. Artia told me she is establishing a coven of good witches. Did you know about this?" Josleen's lips pursed a little critically. "I've had a run in with a pair of 'good' witches" she sarcastically air quotes the word 'good' then adds, "Went very poorly for me. An ugly time in my life. I am sure good witches exist, but they're people too and can be tempted to use their power for evil if they have convinced themselves their motives are good."

Kelovath never considered bringing Artia into the plan. Their rivalry was well known though. “Ah. I suppose I should approach Artia about this as well. Separately, yes. More support the better when bringing something new to Larket.” His head shook slightly at the mention of the witches. “I remember seeing something on the board in Kelay, but nothing else. I’ve yet to run in to any practicing witches. Artia appears to be in control of herself, keeping the balance needed to use magic anyway.” His gaze lowered in thought briefly, organizing all the information and how it may affect the city. “I should speak to Artia first, I think. About the coven, then go from there.” Not wanting to ignore what Josleen said about the bad time in her life, the subject was quickly brought to attention. “Sounds like a very bad run in that you had…” His eyes were on her now, begging for an explanation.


Josleen shrugs at Kelovath's assertion that Artia is good and in control of herself, and thus need not be feared. "I've seen nothing to the contrary. I hope it stays that way. She's been very kind to me." Some distance down the street Josleen sees Kyle, the man who likes to yell at her when she's alone and he's in a crowd. Normally Kelovath and Josleen would turn right at the next intersection to reach their home, but Josleen keeps their path straight towards Kyle. When there is a lull in Kelovath's speech, she explains "I need to pick up some ink." She nods along at the rest of his statements, but her attention is on Kyle, the prick. They're only a few yards apart and Josleen levels her stare on him, as if daring him to say something. Of course he doesn't dare, not in front fo Kelovath. What more, despite the fact Kyle spends his freetime agitating for Kelovath's eviction, he's too much of a coward to do anything more than glare and shake his head critically at the paladin. Just as they pass Kyle, Kelovath asks about Josleen's past and she replies when she believes she is out of Kyle's hearing range. "I try not to think about it too much. I was seeing someone," she frowns at his memory, "and this witch was jealous. She fancied him. Attacked me at the Frostmaw Clinic where I worked as a nurse at the time. Then she and her sister hexed me to..." She hesitates. This history embarrasses the vain bard. "Using magic they made me look like, well,... a hag. I couldn't leave my room in the fort for weeks. Eventually Queen Hildegarde discovered the sister's involvement and pressed her to reverse the curse and I was freed." Unfortunatrly for Josleen, she misjudged the sensitivity of Kyle's ears and he catches just enough talk of witches and hexes to begin spinning a rumor.


Kelovath had eyed Kyle as they approached, but the paladin didn’t exactly have a face to put to a name. He followed Josleen, starting to make a connection as to why Kyle’s face looked the way it did. As much as he wanted to stop and confront the coward, it was best to avoid punching the dude in the face. When Josleen started explaining the experience, the paladin gave a quick look back at Kyle, who was still shaking his head and mumbling something under his breath. Kelovath ignored and brought his attention to Josleen. In a way, it was surprising to hear the reaction Jos had of being turned…Ugly. It was in the past, of course, and maybe she was less vain now than before. Or not. The paladin wasn’t sure how to even begin to figure something like that out. He knew ugly. His body was covered in ugly. But if magic were involved and knowing he could remove the ugly, then his reaction to such a thing would have been minimal at best. Hiding in a fort for weeks seemed excessive. But, Kelo being Kelo, he did his best not to judge. “A lot of work for a guy.” He smirked some, selfishly wondering how the guy must have felt being caught in the middle of something like that. Stressful, probably. They started to pass by a shop he assumed Jos would want to stop at for ink and motioned to it. “The ink?” His gaze shifted backward again, looking for Kyle who was no longer there. Good.


Josleen's lip curls on the edge of a snarl when Kelovath mentions the 'guy'. It's a good thing Kelovath keeps his judgments against her vanity to himself. The ex-guy thought along the same lines as Kelovath, as did Krice, and both of them got an earful. "It worked out for her eventually. Sure, at first, my ex was upset with her for what she did to me, but eventually he defended her and had an affair with her. That's why I left him. That and other issues... but... I doubt you want to hear about my romantic past." She turns into the shop to buy ink she doesn't need because she commits to even small white lies. All she wanted was to intimidate Kyle a little. Never hurts to have more ink. In the shop, the ink vendor makes a joke about how Jos just bought a bottle of ink two days ago! She sure must write a lot. Josleen laughs, "I sure do!" The bottle of ink she bought two days ago sits on her desk unopened.


Kelovath opened the door for Josleen and they both entered the shop. He wandered around, uninterested in buying anything that wasn’t needed. For today, nothing was needed and he waited for Jos. The laugh was shared with the vendor, the obvious fact that Jos didn’t really need the ink flying way over his head. Again, the door to the shop was opened for Josleen and when they got outside, the previous subject was brought up. “Your past is what makes you, you. You know basically all about mine.” More or less true, but his past wasn’t eventful. Well, excluding the battles and like that he’d been involved in and lost. His past didn’t come across nearly as dramatic as Josleen’s. Could be that Jos is a natural story teller. Kelo is not. “I’d like to know everything I can.” He said softly, offering a quick smile. “If you feel like telling.”


"I don't know about the women you've had before me." She shrugs and quickly shakes her head. "Maybe I don't want to know. I'll inevitably compare myself to them and..." She sighs and lets the subject go. "You know I was married. The man who ran off with the witch was a short relationship after my marriage. Nothing came of it. It was never a grand love story. I didn't see it at the time, but he was a cruel man. Good riddance." While Josleen's hatred for the ex that came after her marriage is palpable, she doesn't seem to have the same hatred for her ex-husband. When it comes to Ezekiel, she says almost nothing, which some may argue is even worse. Forgotten, in mind and heart. They reach the house and she briefly remembers their original purpose in coming home: 'self defense' lessons, aka a horizontal mambo. The conversation has put her off a lusty encounter. She doesn't bring it up.

Kelovath and Josleen’s House, Andurla’s Former Home

Kelovath didn’t have many previous relationships. It wasn’t a problem for him to speak about it, but hearing how Josleen spoke about her relationship after her marriage was off-putting. If something were to happen with Josleen and himself, would she say the same things? Good riddance to that pesky paladin? He decided against pushing the topic when seeing that they were fast approaching their home. The whole reason for making the trip here was on a happy, lustful note. Now the mood was definitely gone, but regardless of that, they still continued toward the house. The door was opened for Josleen by Kelo and when he stepped inside, he made his way toward the kitchen. “Something to drink?” He asked on his way, looking back to Jos before entering the room. Tea was his choice, so he’d start with that, thinking she’d want the same before getting her answer. The tea was prepped and the waiting portion was no here. The man stood in the kitchen, in a slight daze as he thought about his past. And his relationships. Nothing even compared to how things were now. This was better. Consistent. Honest, as far as he knew. Easily described as happy. He smiled to himself, head shaking some. “Ah…” The feeling turned verbal and soon after, the tea was ready.


Josleen isn't sure if she's imagining this, but something in Kelovath's expression suggests he judges her for how she feels about Ansel. His silence on the subject speaks volumes. Come to think of it, he looked critical of her when she recounted the story of the time she was hexed. She thought she was imagining it then, but is more sure of it now as she feels the vibe between them sour. Does he think her ridiculous? These thoughts boil like the hot water he heats for their tea. Her silence thickens. He says 'ah' and she says nothing, too consumed with her suspicion that he is critical of her. Seemingly appropos of nothing she asks pointedly, "What would you do if a witch hexed me now? Made me ugly?"


Kelovath turned his head some as Josleen asked her question. It caught him off-guard, so his response was slow. Gaze shifted from her to the tea and then back to her. Still, he gathered his thoughts before speaking calmly. "I would continue loving you." The way he said this was like saying the sky was blue or the grass was green. Obvious. No other answer. Because of her question, he knew something was on her mind and it would fester if it wasn't spoken about. Possibly pushing too far, the paladin stepped toward the bard and extended his hand out to caress her face. "If you wanted me to create a potion to remove the hex, then I would figure out a way. If the only way to remove the hex were to accept the magic into myself, then I would do so. Your happiness is my priority, Jos. No matter what it takes." His eyes locked onto hers during his admission of sacrifice, that quick smile showing itself once more.


Although Josleen knows he is trying to be sweet and reassuring, she doesn't feel reassured or smitten. The answer is perfect and easy. It's a hypothetical that may never happen again, or if it does, it's unlikely it would be incurable. What more, Josleen isn't sure what she's looking for here. So she smiles quickly, though not convincingly. Her hand smooths over his, thumb rubbing his knuckles twice, then she turns her attention back to her tea. Her gaze grows distant as she loses herself in private thoughts. She watches the steam float away from the surface of the scalding liquid. Hot air. It's a lot of hot air. "I need to go to Frostmaw soon," she announces without signalling the topic change. "I should probably tell you something about that. There's been a change to Hildegarde's queensguard..." Her gaze flickers to Kelovath then returns to the small puffs of hot air.


Kelovath knew his words didn't hit home based on her reaction, but it was apparently time for tea. He made no sound or attempted to bring it back up. A few nods and the man pulled away, pouring tea for the both of them. "Oh? A change?" He was curious as to what the change could be. Hildegarde didn't seem like someone who'd want guards following her around all day, but with the several attempts at her life, it was probably for the best. Kelo stirred his tea some, but the drastic change in mood cause his appetite for the hot liquid to go sour. Talks of previous relationships and a situation about Jos becoming ugly certainly removed any chance of those 'self-defense' lessons happening.


"Mhm, she's hired, uh..." The bard's cheeks burn bright red as she has to reveal yet another ex boyfriend. If her suspicion that Kelovath thought her ridiculous wasn't true so far, surely it would be true now. "An ex-boyfriend of mine, from long ago. He was before I was married. Has been living in Chartsend all this time, now moved to Frostmaw to be Hildegarde's queensguard." She shrugs to dismiss a fact which refuses to be dismissed. She is thane. They will see each other often in Frostmaw's court. "He found me in the Red Ogre a few days ago. Said hello, small talk, then left."


It's a good thing he wasn't lost in thought when Josleen spoke about the change. This was important. Worth discussing. The fact that she was Thane instantly came to mind and he knew she'd be seeing him basically everytime she went to Frostmaw. He wanted to reach for his tea and take a drink. Anything to stall some and process. Unfortunately, the man did not think. He spoke first. "You're going to be seeing him a lot, huh? When you go?" The tea was forgotten and his body language showed concern. Maybe even a slight worry. He was facing her now, uncomfortably leaning against the table their drinks sat on. His eyes lowering, then searching the room before finding their way back to Josleen. "What's his name?" Quickly said, although his voice remained unsure. The fact that he was -another- boyfriend didn't actually cross his mind. The number didn't matter. The fact that he sought her out worried him.


"Collin Eliason," she replies without hesitation. "He's a paladin of Arkhen, like you." Pause. "Well, not exactly like you." A private grin brightens her expression. It's unclear if the grin is in response to the ways that Kelovath differs from Eliason, or the ways that Eliason differs from Kelovath. "He was commander of Chartsend's army for many years, then sort of... Well I am not sure. Based on what he told me at the Red Ogre, he lost his way and wants to start fresh in Frostmaw."


"Eliason." He said aloud. Familiar, but Kelo's ties with Chartsend are non-existant. Never had a reason to head that direction. And anyone who might be able to tell him more about Eliason are unknown. Hilde maybe, but Jos would know. He can ask around Larket to start and go from there. The man had lost his way, so what happened during that time could be reasonably decided that it was not good. Not within code of Arkhen. Well, there isn't much of a code, but until more information could be found, it was the right time to be cautious. "I see. I suppose Frostmaw is a good enough place to start over..." It was obvious the paladin was bothered. He turned back to his tea and finally took a drink. "You two have a complicated history as well?" A sharp question, but based on their earlier conversations, it was a fair assumption. Just not the right way to ask about it.


Josleen braces herself against the sharpness of his tone. "Not that complicated..." In truth it's the most complicated of any of her past relationships. It's the only one that's left tenderhooks in her heart. "We were together for a while in Chartsend. He... Well it doesn't matter what he wanted. I left, moved back to Xalious and dated the man I would later marry--a mistake." Which part, leaving Collin or marrying Ezekiel? Both? There's a lot more to the story than that, but Josleen decides it's best not to disclose everything about that history. She doesn't always emerge from the story pure and unscathed. "It's as you say, history."


Kelovath listened without looking at Josleen, keeping his attention on his tea. Small sips were taken as he tried to dissect her words and any hidden meanings. Not a trait the paladin is good at. So any possiblity of hidden meanings or lock away feelings were unfound. All he had was his own opinions. But, there wasn't much to go on. "History." He repeated after her, nodding his head as the word left his lips. "So, when do you plan on heading to Frostmaw?" He thought about going with her, now after this, it'd be so obvious for his reasoning. Would she care? It sounded way over-protective, but he's a paladin. Basically what he does.


Josleen squirms in her seat as she feels Kelovath's mood shift, hears the apprehension in his voice. She's never seen him withdraw like this over (what she assumes is) jealousy. In a small way his jealousy reassures her that he does crave her, is possessive of her in a small way, even if he rarely says it out loud. Too much jealousy is maddening (or dangerous), too little leads to insecurities. "Next week, in five days really." Despite all her small power games and petty interests, the bard is inherently sweet. She slides off her chair and crosses over to him, slips her arms around his waist (from the front if he is standing, from behind if he is at a table). She kisses and nuzzles his cheek, but says nothing. The paladin doesn't express himself best with words, but with actions. She speaks his language, reassuring him physically instead of verbally.


Five days. She might as well of said tomorrow. Forget the tea. No longer important. His heart raced with, yes jealousy, but also worry. She was Thane for Frostmaw. Eliason now on the Queensguard. They would be seeing a lot of each other. All the time is what his mind irrationally told him. Together all the time. Probably have rooms right next to each other because why the hell not? He was standing, so when Josleen made her approach, his body tensed. He wanted answers. The history, that he claimed earlier was not all -that- important. But, with her touch, the man did relax some. His arms lifted and moved around her, his face pressing against her neck after her kiss upon his cheek. Softly, words were mumbled into her skin. "How long?" Spoken like a child wondering when his mommy was going to come back from work.


"Four days, three nights." Her fingers weave through his hair and massage the back of his scalp. The neediness in his tone catches her off guard. Should she ask him to come along? She wouldn't mind, but, for some reason, she can't bring herself to invite him. (Unbeknownst to Josleen, embedded deep in her subconscious is the fact that she doesn't actually want Kelovath to join her, because she does want to indulge in Eliason's eternally lustful and needy gaze, though nothing more than that. But Josleen has not yet admitted this to herself, and she is confused by her own inability to invite him.) She laughs to lighten the mood. "What's this, Kelo? I didn't expect you to be jealous." A white lie. Of course she did.


Kelovath smiled into her neck, but wouldn’t allow her to see it. Even though she probably could have felt it. It was much of a smile, really. Almost fast enough to be a wince with too many teeth showing. His arms brought her closer, “Hard not to be. History, ya know? Powerful.” A shrug before the man pulled back some to look at her. “But I’m not worried. I trust you.” A better, slightly more reassuring smile than the one he attempted to hide against her skin. But not completely confident.


Josleen grins, pleased by his mild jealousy. He isn't the most vocal lover. Rarely does she feel like this with him, like he would be devastated if she left--not that she wants to leave. All she wants is to be worshipped, an unreasonable desire cultivated from over exposure to romance novels. She lifts herself backwards onto the kitchen counter and pulls him by his belt to stands between her knees. Her arms circle the back of his neck and she brings their foreheads together. "I left him, babe. I knew he wasn't the one."


Kelovath normally would have helped Jos onto the counter, but his thoughts were scattered. At least until she tugged on his belt, which instantly brought his mind right into the whole reason they even came back to their home. His arms moved around Josleen with ease and his eyes connected with hers. He smiled when learning she had left him. Calmed his nerves a bit and of course, when she brought up ‘the one’, his heart started racing once again. Not a single time had he thought about this relationship being his last one, but now…Well, it’d probably cross his mind here and there going forward, but for now, his thoughts were pretty straight forward. His hands slid up her back, but it didn’t take long for him to pull the woman a bit closer to him before whispering. “I’m glad I answered that board post…”


Josleen wonders about the surprise on Kelovath's face when she mentions 'the one'. She had assumed he felt invested in their future together because, well, they bought this expensive house, with its real marble countertops that cool her thighs through her thin, summery dress. Surely this financial investment was a vote of confidence in their relationship? Before she can pry, he's pulling her closer and alluding to how they met. She kisses him deeply in response. Anything more salacious than that must be initiated by him, as per the rules of the game she's been playing with him (without his knowing it) since the day they moved in. Josleen's goal as gamemaster is to influence how Kelovath claims her body. His performance is compared to none other than the memory of Collin Eliason, who very recently reappeared to assert himself as more than a memory. The only other entity in this household who is aware of Josleen's game is the ghost of Andurla. As Josleen kisses Kelovath now, she remembers the game and her goals. Andurla rattles a ceramic pot of sugar on the counter. Josleen starts to pull away to investigate that rattling noise, but isn't too alarmed just yet.


Kelovath returned the kiss with an eagerness that he previously had before they decided to return home. The paladin knew nothing of the game Josleen was playing or that there was a ghost preying on the game. It definitely made things slightly more difficult when things got hot and heavy, but it seemed if Kelo did the right things, the ghost minded her own business. So, without knowing anything about the game, he made his move. And that move was wrapping his arms around the bard and lifting her from the counter top, his lips kept pace with her. The paladin would hold the woman close against him and head, not to the bedroom, but to the living room. The couch that the giant Hureig delivered and that Josleen ordered, would be his target, if the ghost within the home stayed away. If she did, well, Kelovath would take full advantage of it.


Kelovath's bet pays off, but not for the reason he believes. The ghost is more than capable of following them from room to room, but Kelovath without realizing it expels Eliason from Josleen's thoughts and so the ghost of Andurla (who is decidedly Team Kelo) backs off. Josleen thinks of no one but Kelovath as she is taken full advantage of.