smartass_captain

From:

Stratos nods, glancing between the two of them to be sure they're both prepared. Tightens his armor so it sits a little more snug around him. "Talos be with us, then."

There's a whisper of light, a sound quickly muffled by the spells Stratos casts in tandem, concealing himself from eye and ear alike. No trace remains of the tribune as he heads away from them, up the rocky path to their goal. Felix reaches out to squeeze Jim's hand in reassurance while they wait, both of them silently marking the minutes that seem to stretch out far too long.

When they move to climb up after, they have to be careful not to make noise, by the scrabble and scraping of their boots on the uneven ground, or harsh breaths in the chill air as they have to grab for handholds to steady themselves. The winter and the first early thaw have done this part of the path no favors at all. But they rise quickly, both men keeping wary watch as they stand at the top. Felix lets Jim ready his aim before he moves closer to the crumbled stones that loom over them. His hands flick out to the sides, and the air warps, snaps as he summons his familiar and his sword in one burst. His nerves are dancing in the stillness. It's just as foreboding as before, the same dread and guilt welling up with each step closer... but not as important, now. Not when he knows what he wants-

When Jim is just behind him, and all that matters is getting rid of this creature before it hurts them again.