Lover

[MissCellaFane]

Samir's eyes widened in shock as she poured the rest of the whiskey over his head. Then she threw the bottle against the wall, completely shattering it. There was nothing he could do but stare at her as she stomped towards the door. She stopped, turned, and said, "Good night." Then he heard her footsteps going up the stairs.

And he began to chuckle. Take advantage of her? The idea had never crossed his mind! She was beautiful, yes. Those blue eyes and her soft skin, the way she smirked up at him as though she was hiding some sort of secret. She was desirable. He couldn't deny that. But he was her guardian, her friend, her companion......not her lover. He shook his head and began laughing louder as the alcohol finally decided to go to his head, cleaning up the broken glass, knowing she wasn't really angry with him.

He then grabbed two towels from underneath a cupboard and began mopping himself up with one. He dragged the washtub into the kitchen and closed the kitchen door, heating up a kettle of water on the kitchen fire. He smelled like a brewery. A smile still on his face, he filled half the tub with cold water from the water pump outside and then filled it the rest of the way with boiling water from the kettle. Stripping off his clothes he stepped in, washing himself with some lye soap he'd discovered near the washtub. He scrubbed the whiskey out of his hair and from his shoulders.

When he was done washing, he stepped out of the washtub, dried himself off, and put his breeches back on. He ran his fingers through his dripping hair a few times to try and straighten it somewhat. Then he began washing his shirt in the same water. It was gonna take awhile to get the whiskey out of the fabric. He chuckled again at the memory of the liquid pouring down over his shoulders. That was his Eve....overreacting yet again. But this time it had amused him and he preferred it that way.

 

[K9Guardian]

Approaching the willow, Jadir pushed aside the leafy screen and came to sit beside his wife. The music played on unfaltering, and he listened with an intent face.. After a time, he laid his hand on hers. The melody faded then into silence.

Not one to smile by lips, Jadir smiled with his eyes instead. “Kaira.”

 

[StarSplitter87]

Kaira's breath caught in her throat in a moment of joy, the hand which was laid down upon her's intimately familiar to her. Smiling with a wide grin, almost childlike in it's innocence and absolute devotion to her husband, the Queen smiled towards her King, the melody still hanging in the air as the final threads of the notes she had been playing vibrated into silence. "My love." She responded to him, slipping the harp to it's upright position with her other hand and catching up Jadir's with the one he had touched. She waited for him to speak.

 

[K9Guardian]

Jadir held her hand in his much larger one and let the silence stretch on before he spoke. Somewhere in the background bluebirds were twittering, a gentler contrast to the deep sobriety of moments before.

“You have never failed to please me, dear. How long has it been? I would think that your touch on my heart should have faded by now.” There was an edge of humor in his voice, barely perceptible.

 

[StarSplitter87]

Kaira's smile became warmer, making her entire face glow golden in the shaded area in which they sat. His hands were strong and warm, like so much about him that she loved. He was her protector and lover, a lion when needed and a lamb at her side all other times. Such a beautiful balance, she knew, and the perfect concentration of each attribute which made him, in her eyes, the perfect ruler and husband. "My love," She replied in a mock reproach, "I hope my touch never leaves you for too long. I shall be heartbroken if it did, for your touch upon my heart will never fade from me."

 

[Nella Fantasia]

((Joint post with Star))

Jadir considered raising her hand to his lips, but decided against it. After all, he wasn't one to show such devotion and intimacy to his queen in public. Although his heart may have burned for it. Instead he continued to hold her hand, her fingers so slender and delicate. So smooth and beautiful. Like all of her. "Well," He began slowly, a glint of humor showing in his eye. "We can't have that, now can we? How can a king rule if his queen's heart is broken?"

Kaira smiled approvingly, how she loved him doting upon her as he teased her. It was one of the many things she loved about him. Sighing, she squeezed his hand with her's, "My heart is not broken my love, only your showering attentions. But I am not jealous of the court, for I know you rule for the sake of us all." At this she stood a little closer, but no more than what she knew he would want, upon that boundry's edge point of fact. She longed to reach up and kiss his furled forehead, how stressful his days had become. But she did not and instead smiled more broadly at him, "I merely wish to spend my anniversary with my husband. May I have my husband, treasonous as it sounds, without my King attending him?"

His blue eyes gazed into hers, suddenly feeling the stinging pain of loneliness. Oh, how he yearned to be near his wife, as a man and a woman, not as a king and a queen. But alas, he had many other things to attend to. Although her words struck his heart, he could not delve into such fantasies. Not now anyway. With a squeeze of reassurance, he gently dropped her hand. "You may, but not now. Soon though. I promise you." He then turned slightly, wrapping his right arm around her shoulders, and gesturing in front of him with his left. "Come, my darling. Let us celebrate our anniversary."

 

[StarSplitter87]

The anniversary day was glorious. Full of festivities, foods from all sorts of sources and chefs, and the most dazzling warm day one could ask for. The company was delightful, the hours scurried on, and soon it was nightfall and the horns sounded for all to be seated for the evening's entertainment before the mascaraed ball was to begin.

Kaira took up her husband's hand as they sat in the place of honor at the make shift throne area in the main courtyard. There was a small table before them, laden with food, many of which were untouched, and before them and below were the other tables for the lords, ladies, and various honored guests who had arrived along the course of the day. Even the magical community had it's own table to the side, all the attendees of the Castle of Magic were there, or off touching lips in some far off corner of shadows. How like the young, so passionate they forget to remember their place in society when it comes to the affairs of love.

It was then that the fireworks began, suspended in the air like curtains of spiderwebs and glistening silk. Expensive too for the party train which had arrived two weeks before had demanded a forchune for the magics to be performed for the celebration. But Kaira had spared no expense and was not disappointed in the least, for their performance was indeed worth every gold coin.

~~~

It was in the darkness of the forest that Shaula found her pray, that wilting, simpering, love stealing tramp! What sort of cousin was she, aye? One whom conives and schemes against her, the might Shaula, and her desires! She wasn't even gifted in magic or the arts or anything really! All she was good for was a warm pillow to the man whom she loved! If that wicked cousin of her's was out here tonight, as she suspected she would be, she could quickly convince her not to see her loving necromancer again!

Yes, that was the plan. Intimidate the wilting flower and she would BREAK. Seething as she was, Shaula somehow managed to come upon the woman whom she sought, and that woman was alone.

((I've completely forgotten all names. Red, that's your girl))

 

[LightofHeaven]

((Sirena, Star. Front page of the OOC.0
0
Flynn sat watching the fireworks; his eyes glued to night sky which was sprinkled with twinkling stars. It was beautiful; peaceful; inspiring. He glanced to his right. Sabriel sat beside him; her head tilted back to gaze upon the glorious sky; her long brown hair flowing down her back, her eyes glinting in the occasional brightness from the fireworks. Love.

Music began to play. Sweet notes washing through the courtyard like a gentle river of sound. Flynn grasped her hand andsmiled at her. "What do you say, we begin the dance?"

"Wouldn't it be wise to let the king and queen begin?" she asked, smiling.

"It will a gift to their hearts." he said, standing. They walked forward, onto open ground, lit by torches every fifty feet.

They stopped, turned and bowed to the king and queen, and began to dance.

Though, every eye was on them, they danced without a flaw. It was a lover's dance; a mirror for them, for the king and queen, for their people. A mirror to reflect into them what they were. Or what they wanted.

Lovers.

 

[Redstiletto]

((Anyone know what page Syvli and I left off?? I can't find it...))

 

[Nella Fantasia]

((He posted for you on the page before this at the very bottom))

 

[StarSplitter87]

((Doesn't really matter now because the last post I gave was that she was alone. So Red, post for that and leave the rest of the lover's conversation for later...or perhaps in the beginning of your next post.))

 

[Redstiletto]

Sirena and Arsyth's meeting in the garden had been short and to the point, to make plans to meet each other for the fireworks later that night. So here was Sirena, waiting to meet him, as she patiently waited, her heart open and free of pain, or so she tried for it to be.

As she walked through the woods, she noticed her cousin Shaula, a hatred fulled her body burning her from the inside out. She looked away quickly not allowing her mind to travel back to that woman she would spit at and call a witch. Family or not, she could not stand the sight of that woman, quickly she kept walking, hoping that Arsyth would get there quickly.

 

[Nella Fantasia]

The Next Morning

The previous night's events continued to provoke Eve even after the morning brought promises of a better day. Okay. So maybe not a better day, but a new day nonetheless. She attempted to refrain from thinking about the mysterious elf maiden and Samir, instead focusing on the plan with Roden. She would go to him again today, this time leaving Samir here, and make sure the man had begun slipping the tonic into the King's system. It was a perfect plan, one which required unbelievable cooperation from every party involved -- Roden, herself, and Samir.

No elf maiden required.

Sighing, Eve leaned back against the door frame to the outside, watching as a few civilians passed down the street in front of the house. No one really seemed to notice her. That was good. So far the original owner of the home hadn't had any visitors and she wanted to keep it that way. If need be, she'd get rid of them.

Right now, however, she just wanted to see if Samir was awake yet, and hopefully rid of disruptive thoughts. Though if she really didn't want to be stressed, the last person she should see was him. Shaking her head, Eve turned towards the closed door, and pushed it open, walking in.
​

 

[CJF]

((Yay! I've missed this RPG so much!! Whoo!!))

Trista yawned and opened her eyes to a bright, glowing room. The morning sunlight had burst through the sheer curtains, and warmed the room with its golden rays. Of course, the fact that Brennan was back in her life made the room seem even more glorious. She went to the window and looked out into the town. It really had happened...Brennan, now known as Samir, had been brought back to her. The thought was indescribabl.

She hadn't forgotten, however, about the hateful woman he'd been traveling with. Trista didn't know how they'd met, or what drew him to her; all she knew was that in some way, he was bound to her...to Eve. The thought was a confusing one, in the least. It worried her and scared her, but he hadn't made too big a deal of it, so she decided to follow his lead. If he wasn't overly concerned, she wouldn't be either. Unless of course he was doing that out of protection for me...She thought a moment, and decided to wait and ask him about it whenever they met next. At that thought, her heart swelled again. Tears filled her eyes.

She sighed. "Oh Brennan," she said aloud, "I've missed you so."

 

[CJF]

((Just bumping this up.))

 

[LightofHeaven]

A wonderful night with wonderful events and wonderful dreams...

Flynn lie awake staring up at the ceiling; remembering last night's festivities. It had been wonderful. Yes, very wonderful. Especially that moment when a wild, yet friendly food fight had erupted amongst the guests. Flynn had been hit square in the face by a flying pudding, which had amused Sabriel so greatly that Flynn pored a glass f water her head.

Everything seemed so wonderful.

He climbed out of bed, stretched, and crossed to open the closed shutters. Sunlight poured into the room. a perfect blue sky, a perfect morning.

Wonderful.

Behind him, Sabriel stirred. "Flynn? What time is it?"

"My love," he answered. "it is time for a wonderful breakfast."

 

[Nella Fantasia]

On the Outskirts of Namor in Alembic​

As Atreyu caught sight of the tavern in the small village of Alembic, his pulse quickened with the overabundance of adrenaline. It was something he just couldn't control, and didn't have any desire to do so. This is why he became a bounty hunter in the first place. The hunt, the chase, and eventually, the capture. The thrill was immensely rewarding, and he wouldn't have it any other way. Even if the criminals often did put up a bit of a struggle. He grinned to himself. But then, wasn't that the whole point?

Atreyu shifted on his horse then glanced behind him at his brother, Thalion. The younger man was scratching at the curls on top of his head, a disgruntled expression of displeasure as he stared down at the road. No doubt uncomfortable on top of the beast. They had been riding all day and now it was late evening. But while Atreyu enjoyed not having to walk everywhere, Thalion didn't think it was worth the hassle.

It made him want to laugh, but he tamed it down to a small smirk instead. "It's just up ahead!" He called out, catching his brother's attention.

Thalion dropped his hand back to the reigns and looked up at him, raising his eyebrows. "Is it now?" He asked.

Nodding, Atreyu averted his gaze to the tavern once more. "Swords at your sides?"

A pause and then, "Shiny and ready!"

By this time he'd reached the front of the tavern and dismounted, glancing at Thalion as he followed suit. "Blowgun set?"

Thalion looked towards his chest where the wooden stick dangled on his vest then back up to Atreyu with a grin. "Indeed!"

Atreyu raised an eyebrow. "No dastardly bee harboring inside this time?" He asked slowly.

Looking offended, Thalion exclaimed, "That happened only once!" He shrugged, leading the horse next to Atreyu as he tied the reigns to a wooden pole. "It wasn't my fault the sneaky bugger decided to invade our capture."

"And now we know to make sure it doesn't come back, eh?" Atreyu asked with a smirk. Thalion wrinkled his nose but didn't respond, so the older man continued. "Alassiel ready?"

Thalion's eyes darted to the hawk on his left shoulder, reaching up with a finger to brush it across the tiny head. Alassiel cocked her head to the side, her eyes flickering, the little bell around her neck jingling. "As always!" Thalion said.

Atreyu reached into the saddlebag at the side of the horse, rummaging through it before brandishing a couple rolled up parchments. "Here's the reports and orders-" He grinned wide. "-and, of course, the sketch." Although he'd spent a good portion of his time studying the drawing of the man they were supposed to be seeking, it always made for a good show to hold up their picture and see the looks on their faces. "Anything else?" He hesitated, nodding once to Thalion's waist. "Luck of the rabbits?"

Thalion grinned, fingering the rabbit's foot at his front around his waist. "Check!"

"Good!" Then they were set. Atreyu turned towards the tavern, gesturing his brother forward. "Let's go make someone's night miserable." And our own one to celebrate.

Atreyu was the first to enter the two double doors with Thalion close behind, stopping at the entrance and scanning the area. It was dimly lit, crowded with the average locals, and rained with numerous voices. A group of highly drunk men were in the right corner, singing awfully terribly with slurred words; numerous others were scattered around to the tables, playing cards or chattering away; a bard was to the left, whistling away on his ocarina in hopes for a few coins; the loose barmaids with their hair piled high in low cut dresses traipsed around, leaning into the men and giggling into their ears. No sign of a criminal. Yet.

He placed his hands on his hips and leaned back slightly, inhaling deeply. Ah yes. The smell of a deceitful barbarian in hiding was definitely in the air. Dropping his hands, he took a couple steps forward only to be confronted by a rather perturbed looking, squatty man with a thin mustache, causing Atreyu to stop abruptly and he felt Thalion almost run into him behind, muttering a low curse.

"Just hold on a cottonpickin minute!" The man exclaimed, angry as he furiously wiped at his hands with an apron. "What do you think you're doing here?" His eyes flickered passed him to Thalion. "You and your...grimy little follower?"

Atreyu raised his eyebrows and turned his head slightly to catch Thalion's expression. He also looked amused, a crooked grin on his face. No, they definitely weren't usually welcomed. Though why this particular man seemed so upset, he had no idea. Turning back to look at the enraged man, Atreyu spoke in a manner of bewilderment. "Why, good sir! No need for such name calling!" He smiled. "We're only here-"

"Oh, oh!" The man interrupted, shaking a fat finger in his face. "I know exactly why you're here! To unnerve my customers, hm?" He jabbed that same finger in Atreyu's direction. "To make a mess of my tavern, yes?" This time he jammed his finger into Atreyu's chest. "To cause trouble! The Riel brothers." He gave a violent shake of his head. "Always trouble!"

Atreyu's lips twitched in a grin. All right. So, they weren't well liked in most parts of Union, but it wasn't as though they aimed to take trouble with them wherever they went! "Trouble?" He asked, feigning surprise.

"Trouble!" The man exclaimed loudly, taking a backhanded swipe at Atreyu's nose. "Now out with you! I won't have it!" He pointed behind him towards the door. My, my! You surely don't want us out, do you?

Not speaking at first, Atreyu rubbed the tip of his nose where the man's fingers contacted perfectly then responded nonchalantly. "Well, that's a pity."

Then Thalion's voice beside him. "A drastic pity!"

"A terrible pity."

"Unabashedly so!"

"Remarkably so."

"Undeniably so!"

"A drastic, terrible, unabashedly, remarkable, undeniable pity."

"Indeed!"

"Enough!" Came the man's shout.

But Atreyu quickly continued before he could. "Because..." He held up the rolled up parchments. "...I have orders from the Namor Guard to be at any place in all of Union we deem necessary as long as the person we seek is occupying said place." With a growl, the man snatched at the orders and unfolded them. "And since the man we are looking for is no doubt nearby, we have every right to be here presently."

The man's eyes shifted as he read the orders before glancing up at Atreyu with a frown. After a moment he shoved them at Atreyu's chest, which he took with a smirk. "Nonsense!" The man exclaimed, jutting his chin in the air. "I don't serve fugitives!"

Giving off a low chuckle, Atreyu rubbed his chin as he looked down to his boots for a split second before going back up to the bartender. "Well..." He quirked an eyebrow with a smirk. "...not that you know of."

 

[Nella Fantasia]

While Atreyu had been bantering with the tavern owner, Thalion had been skimming the room for their suspicious character. Their source from earlier had been one hundred percent positive the run away barbarian they sought would be in this tavern. And if he was, Thalion would find him. And he did. Hunkering down low at a table to the right with a hood over his face, obviously trying not to draw attention, but was actually the most noticeable at the moment.

So, by the time Atreyu had made his comment, Thalion knew exactly where he was going. Grinning, he stepped forward, his eyes still on the man. "That's how it always goes, right?" Now his gaze shifted to Atreyu, jerking his head in the man's general direction. His brother's eyes followed, smiling wide. Thalion continued as him and Atreyu slowly started walking that way. "Fugitives thinking they could take what they will! Not give a considerate thought to anyone!"

"It does! It does!" Atreyu said, walking around to the right of the man and Thalion taking the left. The man had shifted, clearly uncomfortable. Most of the other people nearby had stopped what they were doing, some either watching or others just sitting silently, listening intently. Atreyu went on, clasping his hands behind his back, his eyes on the wall behind the man. "The wretched mongrels!"

"Yes!" Thalion agreed. Then they simultaneously sat on either side of the man, their attention now clearly on him as Thalion leaned forward with his elbows on the table and Atreyu had sat sideways in the chair, resting his forearm casually on the edge. "Don't you agree, sir?" Thalion asked the man. He still couldn't see the man's face all that clearly, but he could definitely catch a scowl as the barbarian attempted to ignore them. "In fact, maybe you can aid us!" Thalion looked to his brother and snapped his fingers once. As if on cue, Atreyu pulled out the sketch of the man they were seeking, holding it out in front of him. "Do you recognize him?" He asked.

Atreyu looked thoughtfully at the sketch. "He does look awfully familiar." Then back to the hooded man. "Don't you think?"

Thalion nodded, brow furrowed. "Yes! Yes! But where have we seen him before?"

"I honestly just don't know, dear brother!" He moved the sketch closer to the man's face. "Do you?"

Suddenly the man was standing, his chair clattering to the ground behind him as he swerved to face Thalion. Before either one of the brothers could react, he had grabbed Thalion's collar and lifted him up off his chair to a standing position, bringing him close. Close enough that the younger, and apparently much smaller, man could smell the whiff of alcohol on his breath.

"Plan on arresting him, do you?" The man growled out.

Thalion swallowed. Aw, crap. Why did this always happen to him? Bad luck. Should have been paying more attention to those cracks. But, thankfully, his dear friend, Alassiel, wasn't going to let him go without a fight, for as soon as the man had jarred Thalion, she left her spot on his shoulder and flew up. Now she swooped down, viciously attacking the man's hood with a screech. Surprised, the man swore loudly and instinctively let go of Thalion to swat furiously at the bird. The younger man took a step back and adjusted his collar calmly. Upon seeing Thalion no longer being in danger, Alassiel stopped her pecking and clawing to find her spot back on his left shoulder.

But she had effectively tore his hood to shreds, revealing all of his face and head, proving what they had already known--he was the barbarian. And as Thalion studied him, he could definitely tell where they got that idea! When they had said barbarian, they meant barbarian! The man was well over six feet tall, and at least three hundred pounds, if not more. Oh boy. Apparently the luck of the rabbits wasn't good enough.

Still, even in the face of this, Atreyu apparently couldn't help but tease, still standing behind the man. "Shouldn't speak in third person in such a way! Alassiel doesn't appreciate it unless it comes from us." Perfect! Just egg him on! His brother appeared to the side, grabbing a hold of the man's large upper arm. "Now, please don't make it difficult for us. I'm pretty tired and wouldn't mind retiring for the night soon."

With a cry of rage, causing a few of the other patrons in the tavern to back away from the scene, the barbarian spun and clasped his hands on Atreyu's wrist, twisting his arm around to his back, and flung the man face first into the wooden table, pressing his body into him from behind. "You'll have to kill me first before I'll go with you!" While Thalion had to grimace, he really wasn't expecting anything less to happen. It never failed to go this way.

Atreyu's brow furrowed in discomfort, his cheek pressed shoved into the wooden table as his disheveled hair hung partially over his eyes. "Ah, well..." He winced, grunting. "...you see, I can't do that. If you die, I won't be able to collect payment."

Thalion nodded with a sigh, rubbing the back of his neck. "One of the dampers to the rules."

"Especially with times such as this," Atreyu continued. "However, I'll be much obliged to fight you for it."

The barbarian didn't like this as he gave a threatening growl and lifted Atreyu just enough to slam him down into the table again, cracking it. A barmaid gave off a cry in the distance, mingled in with Atreyu's grunt of pain. But he didn't say anything more. Instead he jabbed his elbow back with his free arm into the barbarian's gut and lifted up at the same time, pushing at the man's legs with his own. It loosened the man's grip enough for Atreyu to stand, shoving him back, and swerving to face him, at the same time throwing a punch to the barbarian's face with his right fist. The man caught it in his palm, taking a swipe of his own, which Atreyu dodged by ducking. When he straightened, he jammed his elbow up and into the man's nose, breaking it. Blood spurted, snaking down his face as his head snapped back. But it only seemed to anger him, not slow him down.

Clenching his jaw, his gritted teeth almost red with the blood dripping into his mouth, the barbarian went at Atreyu again with a cry of rage. He tackled him, both of them falling back onto the table, and this time splitting it completely in two, splinters of wood flying everywhere. Along with mugs of beer. This caused a chorus of screams from the women in the tavern, and the men to either yell in annoyance or in celebration at being entertained. The barbarian lifted up slightly to land a blow to Atreyu's left eye, making Thalion draw in a sharp intake of breath through his teeth. Ouch! That was going to leave a beautiful black and blue. Looking disoriented for a moment, Atreyu snapped out of it and took a swipe himself with his fist to the barbarian's jaw, making perfect contact. But, yet again, this only seemed to enrage the man, and he stood, grabbing Atreyu's tunic and taking him with him as he twisted around, throwing Atreyu to the ground on the other side, effectively pinning him down.

Thalion hesitated for a moment before crouching down next to the two struggling men, his eyes on his brother. "So, what now?" He asked, his eyes flickering up to the crazed barbarian.

Atreyu looked thoughtful for a moment, despite the fact his eye was swollen and his face was practically one with the floor. "My neck is starting to cramp a bit, if I do say so myself," He said as though this was a common occurrence. "Therefore I'd greatly appreciate it if you speedily make do with those darts of yours."

Thalion nodded once. "Right then." Jumping to his feet, he fished around his pouch for one of the poison tipped darts. During this time is when Atreyu got another punch, this one to his side and he gasped, winded. Finally Thalion pulled out a tiny dart with a red feather on the end. Picking up the blowgun with his other hand, he placed the dart securely into the hole and then lifted it to his lips, taking aim. When he felt for certain he had the shot, he let out a quick breath of air through his lips, blowing the dart straight into the barbarian's neck. Thalion grinned. Success!

For a few seconds nothing happened. Then, ever so slowly, the man's ferocious actions began to fade. First he froze, shaking his head as though dizzy and even swayed slightly to the side before righting himself. But it didn't last long. Eventually his grasp on Atreyu fell away from his tunic and Thalion caught a whispered curse before the man went plummeting sideways to the floor with a loud thud. Silence.

Then apparently, seeing the giant down, a few of the other drunken men decided they'd like to join in too, and began racing towards the brothers, shouting. Atreyu stumbled to his feet, unsheathing his sword at the same time. Although the noises in the room were deafening, the echoing of steel was even worse. In a flash, Atreyu flicked his blade in the men's general direction. They may have been loaded, but they weren't stupid. Upon seeing the sharp sword pointed to their faces, they came to an abrupt halt, hesitating.

Atreyu gave a half hearted shrug. "Sorry, men. I only have so much room on my horse for the trip back."

"Such a shame!" Thalion cried.

The man backed away, deciding they'd rather not get involved, and Atreyu held the blade loosely at his side as he turned to glance down at the unconscious barbarian. Thalion followed his gaze. Then they found each other's. Already knowing what to do, Atreyu sheathed his sword while bending to take up one of the heavy man's arms as Thalion grabbed the other. Together they lifted, heaving and grunting. It wasn't as easy as it looked.

"Blimey!" Thalion growled through gritted teeth. "This guy has to weigh a ton!"

"Just get him to the horse," Atreyu breathed.

"Are you sure he won't crush it?"

"Doesn't matter to me. He's going on your horse."

Thalion frowned. Of course he was! He was going to need to cover himself with four leaf clovers with this guy! But he didn't say a thing as the two brothers half carried, half dragged the barbarian across the tavern to the front door, all eyes on them by this point. But no one saying a thing. That is, until the familiar angry voice brought the two men's attention to the bartender.

"I knew it! I knew it!" He cried, pointing savagely at the broken table and spilled beer. "Confound trouble!"

They had stopped in their walking, hunched over with either one of the man's arms draping over their shoulders. Thalion fought the urge to roll his eyes though he did glare at the tavern owner. Come on! They had just taken a wanted a fugitive from his tavern! And all he can do is complain about a blasted table?!

Atreyu, on the other hand, didn't seem deterred in the least. He glanced over his shoulder for a moment before looking back to the man. "That?" He jerked his head behind him. "That's not trouble. That's a mess."

That was all it took. The man's round face looked like a bloated up tomato as he began shouting off obscenities, shaking his fists, and even tossed down his apron before stomping all over it. But the Riel brothers didn't notice. They continued on their trudge to the horses, their payment secured, with a string of curses behind them. Yep. Lots of four leaf clovers after this.

 

[MissCellaFane]

The Tired Horse Inn really didn't get a lot of customers, especially ones late at night. Which was why, when the sound of the front door to the inn opening up at one o'clock in the morning reached his ears, the owner, Marius Velasco, was a little bit nervous. His business was a simple roadside inn with four bedrooms upstairs and a small restaurant and a corral outside for the horses. Nothing worth gawking at, but travelers much preferred it to sleeping on the cold, hard ground. However, despite its less-than-noteworthy appearance, Marius did get the occasional highwayman trying to rob the place. Being an older man in his late fifties with arthritic joints, Marius wasn't about to put up much of a fight. So, he always kept a loaded crossbow on the floor next to his bed, which he now promptly picked up as he walked towards his bedroom door and opened it, his light green eyes scanning the dimly-lit main room of the inn.

A lone traveler in a dark blue cloak with the hood up, carrying a leather, beaded bag over one shoulder. A female traveler, if the shapely figure was any indication. A woman, alone, at one o'clock in the morning, coming into his inn? Curious. Very curious. He lowered his crossbow slightly but didn't put it away as he stepped out into the room. "Can I help you miss?" He announced his presence.

Her head turned his direction and a single eye stared at him from across the room, the other eye hidden behind the hood of her cloak. A slow nod. "Yes, sir. I was hoping to rent a room for the night." Her accent was quite unusual, and at first he had a hard time placing it. And when he did, he was even more intrigued. She was from the Migua Desert. Her voice was too soft to be from one of the barbarian tribes. Must be from one of those nomadic desert tribes.

Stepping further into the room, Marius let his crossbow fall to his side and gave a small smile. As he got closer, she turned towards him and he saw she was indeed a desertman. Her bronzed skin and dark brown eyes even more evidence of that fact. "Of course, mistress. I have a bed upstairs available. Two silver coins will do, unless you'll be wanting breakfast in the mornin' and then it'll be three coins."

Silently, the woman dipped her head and pulled her leather bag around front, reaching down inside and producing a small coinpurse. Marius noted with raised eyebrows that it was quite full. A wealthy traveler. What in the world was she doing all by herself with that much coin? At that moment, however, she lifted her head and extended her hand, two silver coins held between her first finger and thumb. "For the room. I'll not need breakfast, thank you."

Marius held out his hand and the woman let the coins drop into his palm. He nodded once with a smile and gestured for her to follow him, grabbing his set of keys from the shelf next to the stairs. "Follow me, mistress." He said, hobbling up the stairs. He glanced over his shoulder as he reached the landing and her large brown eyes that had been scanning the hall, came to rest on his green ones. He had the distinct impression she was questioning him with those eyes. Telling him to ask what he wanted to ask. As if she knew. Slightly caught off-guard, Marius stuttered, "Did you…uh…come on a horse, mistress?"

A slow dip of the head, her eyes never leaving his. "Yes. I put him in the corral. I hope that's all right."

"Of course, of course." He turned and began walking down the hall, speaking softly over his shoulder so as not to wake his other guest. "Shall I unsaddle him for you?"

Her voice floated to him from behind. "I'd be grateful."

He stopped at the door to the room and unlocked it for her, stepping back and gesturing her inside. "There's matches on the nightstand and extra candles in the bottom drawer of the dresser should you need more light than the candelabra on the dresser." She swept past him and an odor of exotic spices reached his nose. Definitely a strange one. He shook his head. "There's a wash basin and soap as well if you need washin'."

The woman turned to face him, her eyes piercing his. She said nothing, just grasped the doorhandle from her side and lowered her gaze with a nod. Lifting her head, she stared at him once more. "Thank you for your kindness. Good night." And she shut the door.

Taking a deep breath, Marius turned and headed down the hall. One o'clock in the morning and he had a horse to go unsaddle. Curious maiden. Curious indeed.

********​

Aislin Hatar pressed her back up against the door after she closed and locked it, taking a deep breath and closing her eyes for a moment. So tired. She had been riding all day and well into the night, not wanting to stop on the side of the road. Too dangerous. Which was why she was ever-so-grateful when she finally came across this inn. It meant she wouldn't have to ride through the night.

Setting her bag down next to the door, Aislin then made her way to the nightstand, the pale glow of the moon coming in through the window the only light she had. She found the box of matches without much trouble and then turned to the dresser just next to it. Taking out a match, she lit it and then held it up to each of the five candles in the candelabra on the dresser. It was plenty of light. Shaking out the match, she dropped it on top of the dresser and then reached for the strings of her cloak, untying them and slipping her cloak from her shoulders, letting it fall onto the bed.

She wanted nothing more than to fall onto the bed herself and sleep. But she couldn't sleep unless she knew. With a sigh, Aislin removed her head covering and let her shiny black hair drape about her shoulders, not having tied it in her usual loose braid. Gathering it over her left shoulder, Aislin headed for the wash basin, beside which stood a pitcher of water and also a small wooden goblet. Drink first. Her thirst couldn't wait. She poured a bit of water into the goblet and drank greedily, her throat parched from travel. Being from the Migua Desert, her body had become accustomed to going without water for long periods of time. But the smooth, refreshing liquid cascading down her throat and whetting her dry mouth was absolute heaven after a ride as she'd had.

When she'd had enough, Aislin picked up the wash basin and set it on the floor next to the bed before pouring a generous amount of water from the pitcher down into the stained iron basin. She set the pitcher on the floor and then reached for her waist, untying the drawstring leather bag attached to the roped belt. Her hand went down inside, her fingers moving about different articles, searching for the seven black stones. One. Two. Three. Four. She tugged them out and placed them in her other palm. Five. Six. Seven. There. Cupping them in one hand she began placing six of the seven stones around the basin in equal distances from one another until they surrounded it. The seventh, she let drop down inside the water and the surface rippled with the disturbance.

Once more she reached into her drawstring bag, this time looking for a single object...the torn piece of cloth. From the killer. Martin's killer. Her stomach twisted as she pulled it out and looked at it. Barely an inch long, but plenty for her purpose. Holding it between two fingers, Aislin then untied the burned book from her waist and opened it to the appropriate page. Then holding the book open in one hand, she leaned over the basin and began whispering ancient words, her fingertips growing warm on the book as the last few syllables left her soft, pink lips. As she closed the book, Aislin dropped the torn cloth into the basin. The water rippled, and as it did, a picture began to appear on the surface of the water. It was difficult to see, but as the ripples abated, the scene became clear.

The killer. The man she had seen running from Martin's house, the man she'd tried to stop and couldn't...his face appeared to her in the water, a glow seeming to come from the bottom of the basin and casting light upon Aislin's face as she peered down inside. His gray eyes seemed almost spectral, set into pale skin beneath bushy black eyebrows. His nose was thin and beaklike, his jaw weak with a clear underbite. But the look, the look in his eyes...it sent shivers down her spine. His eyes closed and the scene around him began to come clearer. He was sitting with his back up against a tree, a smoldering fire at his feet. So...he was spending the night in the wild. She couldn't see a road around him anywhere, but that didn't mean it wasn't there.

Her heart sank. She wasn't going to get much information from this scene. She was going to have to check again in the morning. Aislin closed her eyes, her brow furrowing in sorrow...the loss of her teacher still fresh in her heart. He'd been like an uncle to her. At least, she'd grown to love him as one. Kind and gentle, a little bit odd, but always understanding and quick to smile. How she missed him. She opened her eyes, gazing down into the basin once more. And how she hated this man. Her sorrow turned to firm resolve. "I will find you." She whispered, her breath disturbing the surface of the water. Taking a deep breath, Aislin then blew upon the water, causing more and more ripples until the picture dissolved and she was able to see the bottom of the basin with the soaked cloth and black shiny stone in the center.

Reaching in, Aislin picked up the stone and the cloth, drying them as best she could on her skirt and then placed them back into her drawstring bag, along with the other six stones. Then, placing her hand on the side of the bed, she stood, feeling somewhat more tired than she had moments before. Though the Seven Seeing Stones provided most of the force needed for her to be able to see the person she wished to see, the incantation itself always took some of her own energy, her own force. She bent down, picked up the basin, and then carried it back over to the washstand. It was time for sleep. She wanted to get an early start the next morning and wouldn't have much time to rest. With a yawn, Aislin began undressing for bed.

 

[Nella Fantasia]

City of Namor​

Atreyu knew from the first moment he laid eyes on the barbarian in the tavern that he was going to be one of the difficult ones to haul back. And indeed, he wasn't far from the truth. Spot on, actually. Once the man had woken up to find where he was, or more, where he was going, he'd become enraged all over again, effectively breaking the ropes binding his hands together with little effort. This had caused another fight to pursue where Thalion's poisoned darts were, once again, used. However, instead of ropes they then bound him with chains. And that had remained in place. Though Atreyu did have a wonderful time watching as the barbarian attempted to break those.

Now, finally, after days of travel, Atreyu and Thalion were walking up the steps of the armory with the giant of a man staggering along behind them, his chains around his ankles clinking with each step. Leading them along the stone halls was a Namor guard. This was the bittersweet moment. The time when Atreyu would hand off the criminal and collect his bounty, succeeding in his hunt. It was always good to come out victorious! But, this was also the time when it drew to an end, the chase seemingly over with before it had begun.

However, as Atreyu knew the steps all too well by now, they'd be getting another fugitive to chase down. Going through the hunt, the capture, the thrill all over again. He couldn't help but grin. That's right. Keep 'em comin'! As long as there were criminals thinking they could get away from the law, there would always be work for him.

Glancing over his shoulder at the disgruntled barbarian, Atreyu gestured to the halls. "So, what do you think?" He asked conversationally. The man's dark eyes flickered with hatred. "Not such a terrible place to spend the rest of your life!"

The man bared his teeth, but before he could respond, if he was going to, Thalion spoke up. "Exceptional food and lodging, too!" He gave a nod but didn't look back as he adjusted the end of the chain where the fugitive was connected to on his shoulder. "Won't get much sunlight though."

"But that's all right!" Atreyu exclaimed happily. "Who needs sunlight anyway? Not like women." He raised his eyebrow, looking to the man. "I hope you've had your fill of those because you won't be seeing any for awhile now."

Thalion smiled wide, glancing back at the man, too. "But I won't mind taking your share!"

At this he gave a loud cry of rage, no doubt tempted to lunge at them and rip their heads off. Now, now. No reason to get put out! They were only trying to make it better, after all! Not that it mattered. By this time they had entered into a larger room, the opening of the wooden doors echoing off the vacant walls. The brothers had turned their attention back ahead of them, and Atreyu caught sight of Sir Bijan, head of the Namor Guard. And the man who probably disliked Atreyu the most.

The older man looked over from where he was discussing something with one of his men, hesitating at the sight of the Riel men. Before he could speak though, Atreyu called out with a smile. "Good day, my friend!" He stopped several feet from the doors. "Still kissing up to the king, I see!"

Sir Bijan's brow furrowed in a deep frown as he shooed off the man he was speaking to, stepping closer to the bounty hunters and their criminal. "Be glad you're good at what you do," He said spitefully. "If not, I'd have you thrown into the stockades with that tongue."

Atreyu gave a deep chuckle. "I have no doubt you would." No. There was definitely no doubts there. In fact, Sir Bijan would probably execute him if given the chance.

Sir Bijan didn't respond but averted his focus to the barbarian in chains. "So, this is him?"

The barbarian gave a grunt, Thalion looked blank, which meant he was most likely fighting off the urge to make a sarcastic remark, and Atreyu grinned. "That he is," He responded. "Did you ever doubt?"

Although that got the older man's attention, all he did was narrow his eyes before gesturing to the Namor Guard that had led them there. "Take the fugitive to the stockades."

With a swift nod, the guard did as he was told, taking the chain from Thalion. However, as he was about to lead the barbarian away, the giant made sure to let out a slimy ball of spit directly aimed at Thalion's boot. It made perfect contact! At this, the younger man glanced down, swearing softly, and took to shaking his boot as though that would rid it of the unwanted substance. Atreyu gave his head a slight shake, grinning. It never failed to amuse him how his brother was usually shot with bad luck even with all his trinkets he insisted helped. Right. But if it made him feel better.

Atreyu's eyes darted to Sir Bijan. "And our payment?"

At first, he looked as though he wasn't going to give it to him. Finally he turned, rummaging through a drawer in a table before brandishing a small leather pouch. That's it. You know you can't turn us away. It jingled slightly as he walked towards them, but didn't immediately hand it over. Atreyu held out his palm, raising his eyebrows. Come on! You can do it! And finally he did, dropping it with a grunt.

Smiling, Atreyu went to tying on the pouch at his side. "Always nice doing business with you!"

Sir Bijan responded with a "hmph", but then quickly continued. "I have more work for you."

Atreyu feigned surprised. "So soon?"

Sir Bijan ignored it, walking back over to the desk where it picked up a couple rolled up parchments, tied in the center with a strap. He held them out, speaking. "A woman by the name of Aislin Hatar." Atreyu had reached for the parchments, but hesitated at the name, giving him a quizzical look. Strange name. The older man explained. "Foreign. A desert dweller." Well, that made sense. Nodding, Atreyu took the parchments and began untying them as Sir Bijan's voice reached his ears. "A suspected necromancer who murdered a local sorcerer, her teacher, with the black arts before escaping shortly after."

By this time Atreyu had unrolled the parchments, glancing down at the familiar array of orders, reports, and a sketch. The last is what he pulled out, scanning the image. Huh. She was young. At least looked young. Didn't see many of those. His eyes flickered up to Sir Bijan. "How long ago?"

Sir Bijan rubbed his chin in thought. "Approximately a week."

Atreyu couldn't keep the grin from his face. "A week? And you're already asking us?" Straightening, he rolled up the parchments once more. "Giving up a little more quickly than usual, eh, Bij?" What? A young, foreign woman too much for you?

Sir Bijan's jaw twitched as he growled out. "You know the danger of necromancers abroad in Namor."

Atreyu nodded, gripping the orders in his hand as he flung the leather strap used to tie it over his shoulder. Yes, he understood quite well. If she had been an average murderer, they would have taken a bit more time in locating her. But because she was a necromancer, most feared magic wielders, they weren't going to take any chances. Calling for the best as soon as they possibly could, so they could track her down, and banish her to Necromion.

"Where did the killing occur?" Thalion spoke up.

"Ronault." Good. Not too far then.

"In any other leads?" Atreyu asked.

Sir Bijan hesitated then shook his head. "No. That's it." As was expected.

"Then if there's nothing else to discuss, I'd like to head on our way."

This time the older man nodded. "Of course. Your payment will be as before."

Also expected. Atreyu gave a mock bow of his head. "Great! Can't wait to take even more of the king's gold!" But before he could see Sir Bijan's response, spun and headed back towards the doors. "You'll have her within the month!"

Thalion followed without a word. Until they were out of earshot, walking alone. And actually, he didn't really say anything, just looked as though he was dying to. Atreyu saw his brother glance at him then remain staring from his peripheral vision. He knew he wanted to ask. The younger man always asked, even though he always knew the answer. He just couldn't help himself.

Which was why Atreyu wasn't surprised with the question that came out of his mouth. "We're leaving right now, aren't we?" He asked, sounding defeated before he had even heard the answer.

Atreyu laughed, lacing his fingers behind his head as they walked. "What do you think?"

A heavy sigh. "It's just one time I'd like to rest and actually spend some of the gold we earn."

"Don't worry, brother." Atreyu looked over with a smirk. "All in due time."

"Right, of course." Thalion frowned, facing straight ahead. "When we're wrinkled and bald, and much too old to walk without breaking a bone, let alone enjoy women's company, fine liquor, and foreign cigars."

Atreyu nodded slowly, averting his attention to the hall. "And I wouldn't have it any other way."