Exton

His cloak is pulled close, keeping him in shadow. Ramji watches the streets from his place just beyond the Gate. Word has come, one of the Shifter patrols interrupted a killing. His thoughts go to Laila and her new family. Stoney would keep them home.

Dmitri melts from the darkness, nodding in greeting. Zade butts her head into Ramji's leg, urging him to move. Ramji smiles, touching the wiry hairs on her scaly scalp. Clasping hands with his friend, Dmitri whistles softly. A stallion steps close, turning for Ramji to mount. As he steps into the saddle, Dimitri murmurs for him to not step from the Path until he is on the cottage land. Ramji nods and sets heels to the horse. His companion Hound keeps an easy pace as the pair race toward his heart's desire.

The hazy image of the cottage is soon within sight and Ramji dismounts. Sword drawn, he dismisses the stallion. The Hound joins another and stretches out, watching the Paths. Ramji steps from the Path and glides across the darkened clearing. A shadow detaches itself and bars his path.

"Sssalutationsss..."

Ramji lowers his blade as Silk steps into a stray bit of moonlight. Her scales gleam in the night as the blades snick back into their sheathes. Ramji pushes back his hood and bows.

"Mistress Leather."

She bows slightly and is gone. Ramji smiles, stepping up to knock on the cottage door. Laila opens the door before he ever gets a chance to knock. He looks back and slips inside, locking the door before he pulls her into his arms.