RPG Infinity, Finite. A Paradox [R] [SVL]

[Shinkoru]

.[color=Navy][center][size=5]This RPG Is Strictly rated R! [SLV][/size] (sex, launage, violence)
Ok, now that, thats cleared up, I would like Gelgoog Pilot to make the first inital post after mine, he needs to see and or attempt to save our little child. I'll be PMing Gel with certin details I would like incorporated into the post. Anyhow, to not interfere with the rescue thing, I'm gonna backtrack/flashback, and re- set it up for our darling child to be saved.[/color][color=darkred]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~[/center]

Sevral Months Earlier

[I]
Shikyo Sendo's eyes were narrower than usual, her long dark hair pulled back tightly. She and her lover stood back to back in the darkness, the grayish smoke of ther campfire freshly put out was only visivle to the trained eye. Any slight shift in the darkness, she would hear it. And minute soud; She would know.

She barely felt Morrslaed's breath, as he held it for a count of seven, exhaling and holding it for a count of seven. The subtle controlled breathing was slightly arousing to her at that very moment, but she forced thoes thought away instantly, focusing only on the matter at hand. Someone, was watching them. She knew it in her bones. What truly scared her however, was the fact, she, of all peopl in the world, couldnt not sence anything but it's presence.

Her verry unobvously semi pointed ears perk up just slightly, having hinted at movement, however slight. It could be the wind, a bug, or maby someone in hiding just gave themself away. Her eyes darted to the spot.

"Humm," she thought to herself" so someone thinks they can cloakc themself in invsiblity and get past me?..."

Her schimitar snuk out, catching whoever or whatever behind the legs, or where they should be, however her blade was met with a deft cling of metal on metal.The moment the clang sounded a scream errupted. While the assasilant was distracted Morrslaed hooked out with one of the rather sharp katals strapped to either of his arms, turning his arms into blades., and grabbed the person from behind his right leg, cutting the tendon through throuly.[/I]


Morrslaed: It isn't like you have much choice. Speak or die.
[I]
His blade quickly found it's way to the mans jugular, the fne egde pressed periously close to the skin. The man shook, trembling from head to toe. Shikyo looked down, relalitivly pissed.[/i]

Shikyo: Who are you.

Man: Oh please mistress do not kill me! My lod, he sent me, Lord asked me to bid you an..assignment.

Shikyo, You are wasteing my time. Get to your point.

Man: OH Please! Please no, don't kill me... A Job.. most highly priced.

The blade pressed tighter to the mans neck, creating a thin red line.

Man: Miss, Master, please, so hear me, I am Kael Sinivarian. A Humble servant of thy Lord.

Morrslaed: Whomever is no Master to us. Give me a name.

Kael: Oh no Master I do implore, he dose not speak his name to so unworthy a servant. To possess ones true name is to controll that person. They Lord would never reveal his name..

Shikyo: Well then if he has no name, then he has no business with us.

Kael: I sware miss I sware, he has no name!..He wishes only to give you this letter and I will be gone.
[I]
Kael fumbled with his coat, trying desprately to keep his upperbody stiff so to no slit his own throught. Morrslaed's grip never laxed on the blade. He merely look down with contempt, the nerve someone would dare try to sneak up on them. Kael withdrew from one of his namy pockets, a folded peice of parchment, a black seal encrusted on the back. It was of the king.[/i]

Shikyo: What is this rubbish! Tell me now wurn or you will die, Who is your master!

Kael: My lady! please i beg of thee! My Lord is of the Council of the King, a verry powerfull man, verry rich man..please read his letter and let me be gone...plase Madam I beg of you.
[I]
Shikyo lifted her eyes to Morrslaed's, they met and she nodded. In one swift movement the blade was removed. Kael half stumble half crawled into the forest and away. Shikyo signed, and began to open the letter. Morrslaed slipped up beside her, place his arm around her, with his hand on her oppsite shoulder, looking down at the parchment.[/i]

"Sir and Madam,
[I]
I so humbly apologize if my worthless wench bothered you any. I merely needed to test you. That pethetic fool means nothing to me, kill him if you must. An Item of great value has been reported. This item is worth a great deal, and I will pay you a great deal to aquire it by any means neccicary. a map is locaked on the back of this letter, to read it timly pour a tiny dab of salted water and it will become clear. Please take heed this item is of great importance to the council and we must have it. I trust in your skill.[/i]
Lord"

Shikyo: He surely has a stick up his ass.

[I]Morrslaed simply nodded and lowered his head, pressing his lips softly aginst Shikyo's neck. Her eyes turned, but not her head, a thin smile spreading across her lips. She tilted her head the oppsite way, allowing him more room. Her hands fumbled, releasing the letter and found him, gripping at his clothing, wanting him to kiss her. Hid head lifted, then dove down, pressing his lips firmly to hers. Shikyo knelt, sitting on the ground, Morrslaed and his kiss followed, his arms wrapping around her, cradling her to him... The fire crackled and went out...[/i]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Present Day
[I]
Shikyo and Morrslaed raced across the desert, quickly gaining on a child. No more than 13, she ran across the desert, feebly attempting to ourun them. She knew what must be done, child or not. Her eyes narrowed. "No time for a soft heart, focus Shikyo!" They gained speed, the gap closed steadly.

The girl fell, a pfft of dust and sand went up about her. Shikyo turned her head slightly, looking at Morrslaed, his blade was unsheathed, ready to strike. Shikyo couldn't be sure, but under the thunder of their horses hoofs she could sware she heard another set..Impossible she thought, and dismissed the notion completely.[/color][/i]

[color=navy](This will be spell checked by Flynn tomorrow I promise!)[/color]

[Gelgoog Pilot]

((OOC: Lol no worries...I was never too hung up on spelling anyway...Whew...that was a long post lets see what I can do then. I figured you guys could easily beat me down right now so of course I won?t win any battles?I hope you like what I put however, im interested in your responses.))

He had been aimlessly riding around for some time now, simply to test the horse and to get some time away from the city. He looked up at the sun through his face guard, his eyes squinting at the brightness.

[I]What a day?it?s just plain beautiful.[/I] [B]"Huh?"[/B]

Hoof beats from the left, a cloud of sand, obviously trailing horses. He thought nothing of it. There were far too few riders to be bandit raiders. He turned his horse to leave, and then he saw her. A little girl, stumbling forward, fell, and then two riders came into view. The man?s deadly blade, already drawn and ready to finish the girl off, arched into the air. In a heartbeat Horres was thundering towards her. His breath intensifying with a small bit of fear, he didn?t bother unsheathing his scimitar just yet, he could only hope that his horse was fresher than theirs.

[I]What in the name of God are you doing!? Horres...these people are armed?you have hardly any fighting experience![/I] His mind was screaming at him to rethink the idea, but it was too late.

The female rider had just noticed him; her blade was now drawn as well, no doubt to cut him down. It was too late, his course took him closer to the child, and he scooped her up with only a few yards to spare. He tugged at the reins forcing the horse to change direction, this bought the two bandits time to catch up. As his horse regained her speed, the sound of hoof beats pounded in Horres? ears. A glance to the right side caught him the image of the male diving into him.

The two tumbled to the ground; rolling through the sand, both attempting already to gain the upper hand. The horse, still feeling the weight of a rider, the girl, continued of at a hurried pace towards the city. Sand flew over the two tangled men, as the female rider continued to pursue the girl. Horres was lucky enough to get in a lucky punch to his assailants face, giving him a second of time to draw his sword. Immediately it was met by a katana, the clanging resounded in Horres? ears. He began to panic, the man he fought was far too fast, and he could never keep up this pace of countering and deflecting. Horres slashed out sloppily, knocking the man back, but forcing him to stumble back as well. Horres rolled down a small sand dune, stopping at the bottom only for a moment, his instincts forcing him back on his feet in seconds.

The man grunted as he hopped down the dune after Horres, bringing his blade around to attempt to finish him off. Horres? eyes darted around him as he tried a last ditch tactic, just as the man was upon him Horres flung sand into his face, and then ran.

He could hear the man cursing slightly as he sprinted across the sand, his hope dropped however has he heard two sets of hoof beats. It sounded like one in front of him just over the dune, and the other one behind. He turned back to see the male rider gaining fast, again he twirled his blade, ready to slash into Horres. He was only moments away from the top of the dune, and yet he could practically feel the steed?s breath on his neck. With a spurt of energy and speed, Horres crested the dune, dived down the other end and rolled. The sound that followed made him smile slightly. Cursing and a heavy thud told him that the two riders had collided and one at least was dismounted for a moment. Horres reached the bottom of the hill, jumped to his feet, and ran.

He couldn?t believe his eyes, before him was his horse, the women must have stopped it, the girl lay motionless on the sand. As he closed the few more yards to the waiting mare, Horres could again here hoof beats drawing near. He grabbed the reins, stooped to check the girl, and finding her still alive, tossed her over the saddle. He followed shortly, and began jabbing the horse with his heels fiercely. The horse responded with tremendous speed, the two riders were not far behind, however this time they were losing ground.

Half an hour later Horres reached the city gates, the two riders had disappeared after the city came into sight. He had a feeling however, that they wouldn?t give up their quarry that easily.

[The Harlequin]

[font=gothic][color=darkslategray][i]Far more impassive than his actions indicated he actually was, Morrslaed delicately flicked sand off his katals (OOC: Katals, not katanas...) and returned to the horses, the battle-experienced beasts requiring merely a touch to calm them. Eyeing Shikyo as she also returned, his words were measured, revealing more curiousity that the irritation that such cadence would usually entail. A quick scouting of the gates had revealed the current watchman was certainly not in their pay, and that the wall itself posed no difficulty. The chase to the city hadn't aroused attention, their pace being far less than they could have pushed, were they not expecting a trap.[/i]

Morrslead: You don't truly believe that was her defense, do you?

Shikyo: Of course not. The blunderer would never serve.

Morrslaed: Which means we wasted time running her, and for naught. No doubt she'll have gone to ground by now.

Shikyo: We will find her.

Morrslaed: The place is a rabbit warren inhabited by vipers, more than a few of which would be happy to see us fall.

Shikyo: Yet very few who would dare to work against us.

Morrslead: Perhaps not directly. But abetting a runaway? If causing a caravan to disappear just before a checkpoint, and reappear just afterwards, miles from the city, is an easy feat to these, than one girl will pose them no difficulty.

Shikyo: Having reservations?

Morrslaed: Merely painting a worst case scenario. Chances are, whoever she was running to is in there, not out here waiting in ambush.

Shikyo: And if that one was more than he seemed?

Morrslead: Not a problem. For now, we'll need somewhere to picket the horses.

[i]Another half an hour saw the horses tethered in a box gully, with enough water present to stop them from immediate dessication. If all went well, they'd be back to reclaim them rather soon, and there was plenty of forage available, and none of it green enough to give them colic.

The walk back to the city took little time, both Morrslaed and Shikyo being experienced desert travellers, well used to the shifting sands, and having little need to conceal themselves with night coming on, and a slight wind provided enough sandspray to blur their image without discomfort. The watchmen on the walls made regular rounds, torches appearing as minor coronas drifting along the top of the wall before fading back into the mists of sand. From a distance, the city appeared much more impregnable then they knew it was. At least a score of smugglers routes existed in various positions in and out, and chances are they could scale a wall and be inside before a guard could notice. Even if one did, he wouldn't have the chance to sound any kind of alarm.

Still, it was best to keep these kinds of things quiet. A charcoaled grapnel whipped silently upwards, the ends evoking a slight click as they dug into the porous, sedimentary rocks of the wall. Morrslaed stepped back, letting Shikyo ascend first, running admiring fingertips down her side as she did so. Her obsidian flank almost thrilled under the light touch, the tingle in his fingers providing ample distraction for the moment he allowed it too. And maybe just a little more...

Hooking the bottom of the rope in a loop around his foot, Morrslaed took a single hand on the strand and ran upwards, using his free hand to coil the rope as he climbed. Without bothering to glance left or right, he vaulted straight over when he reached the top, shoulder rolling to his feet when he hit the ground, the grapnel wrapped around his shoulder again. They'd chosen a good place to enter, a smoky back alley just off the seedier end of the bazaar, the hearthrob of any trading community, particularly a desert bound one such as this. He and Shinkyo drew their cloaks around them, common enough with the sandy wind that even the high walls failed to stop from teasing through the city streets. Their appearances were well known to the populace at large, but there were enough connected ones around here to ensure they'd be well marked if they walked openly.

Which, for most other jobs, they'd be willing to do, confident that few would dare act against them, and those few would easily dealt with. As it had been, a hundred times before. But given that they had yet to determine exactly who this girl would turn to for aid, Morrslaed judged it best that they remain anonymous for the moment, and let that unknown benefactor tip his hand. Aware that such games appealed to the obscurist in him, Shinkyo allowed him his fun. He'd make it up to her at some point.

The level of hawkers certainly hadn't changed, nor had the quality of the goods, and many of the experienced were still present on the streets. Several knew faces seemed to have comandeered minor respect in certain quarters, but they'd both seen a thousand bravos rise and fall in the crime controlled streets of the bazaar, where guild alliance counted far more than individual skill. A universal rule to which they were the happy, glaring exception.

The skill of the cutpurses hadn't changed either. Morrslaed had the waif's wrist in an iron grip before the grasping fingers had actually reached his pocket. This one had potential, he'd almost dismissed the touch. Looking down, a child of 12 greeted his eyes for a second, then looked away in abject terror. For a second Morrslaed thought he'd been recognised, but realised she was likely scared just due to the pressure on her wrist. Unwilling to attract attention, Morrslaed released her, gesturing impatiently for her to be off when she hesitated, shock at her survival momentarily overcoming the instinct to flee. Very few in this city, stranger or otherwise, were this forgiving. Morrslaed turned back to Shinkyo, who had an eyebrow arched.[/i]

Shinkyo: And if the girl wasn't in fact simply a street urchin?

Morrslaed: There are 52 bones in an adult human's hand. In someone has young as her, there might be as many as sixty.

Shinkyo: Meaning?

Morrslaed: When I decide to start breaking things, I have a lot of options.

[i]With a low laugh, Shinkyo lead him aside, leaving the main strip of the bazaar behind for the moment, into the darker alleys were they were more familiar with the denizens. There was lodging, at least, to be found this night, before any work could be done.[/i][/color][/font]

[Sir Gawain]

[I]The broad faced man threw down his hand to the table, shaking the group's mugs. They all stared at his cards, and several moaned and folded before they lost the clothes on their backs. But they stayed on, eagerly watching the remaining participants finish the game.[/I]

Man: Well, what do ya say to that?

[I] The other remaining player cringed, his free hand tapping lightly on his sword hilt. Even as he did so, the dwarf standing behind the winner cleared his throat loudly, once again bringing everyone's attention to the large axe in his hands. The other's hand returned to his mug, and he took a deep drink before folding himself.

The dwarf's employer, a man known as Cinder, let out a triumphant yell that echoed through the room. Several heads turned from various tables, but they were disuaded from looking any further into it by the dwarf, Onuir Feris. Cinder greedily grabbed his winnings and cut a share for Onuir.

The night had passed quickly. Already Cinder had won five games of cards, two rounds of a strange game involving bird bones, and countless rounds of dice. He was sending everyone in the inn bankrupt. And of course, his new friend prevented anyone from getting in the way of his winning streak. When there were no more willing gamblers left Cinder retired to his room, leaving Onuir to do as he wished with his earnings.[/I]

Onuir: What have I gotten myself into now? A crazy cheatin' worm! Ah well, at least he pays well.

[I] He took a quick jaunt to the bazaar to restock his supplies, and decided to check on his beast. The town guards had outright refused him to bring his ride into the city, and he had let it loose near an opening in the sheep pens outside for his slight revenge.[/I]

Onuir: Altam! Altam! Come 'ere boy! We're gonna be leavin' this rat hole soon! I need to make sure you're ready!

[I] For several minutes, there was no reply, but soon a huge wolfish creature bounded over the pen, blood stains across its mouth and coat. Onuir petted his beast, which he called Atlma, like the sea he had crossed to get here. He had taken Altma as payment to keep his mouth shut about a mage's experiments with animals. Now he rode Altma the same as a man rode a horse, except that Altma could fight better in a tight situation.

Onuir grabbed Altma by the collar he used instead of reins, and led him to the gates. He arrived just in time to see two figures scale the wall and leap into the city. He thought nothing of it, of course, because there were things like this going on all the time here. Thieves and assassins were commonly finding their way into fortified positions. He then though about Shikyo and Morrslead, the two killers who had let him live.

They had met him several times before looking for information about caravans, but they hadn't seen him since before he acceuired Altma. Surely they had some questions of some doings in the nearby desert. After all, only twelve caravans had gone missing in the past month, an all time low. Perhaps they had been lying low.

As he pondered these thoughts, Onuir tied Altma to a lower level guard window and found his way back to the inn, perfectly prepared to find Cinder murdered in his absence. He had been counting on it, and looted what was left of the gambler's stash.[/I]

Onuir: You really shouldn't 'ave let me give your door key to that man you played against. He was upset when he heard how you cheated. I just had to give him repentance.

[Raiha]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Lillutha Jhayaen, cleric, warrior, and forest elf, knew she was being hunted. She gripped her cloak around her body as she ran through the treetops faster, moving almost as fast as a squirrel. Her feet barely touched the branches, hardly bending them, not making a bit of noise. But still she was persued.

She smelled the air, but didn't turn to face her opponent, not until they crossed a river. She cleared it on one leap and then shouted loud enough for the entire forest to hear her. Lillutha raised both hands out, like she was being crucified, and bared her teeth, letting raw energy roar from her body.[/i]

"Acclaro Lymphs!!"

[i]Instantly the water before her jetted up in a huge burst of liquid and steam. The bandits were just crossing it as she uttered the incantation. Her persuers were flung at least a hundred feet into the air and as they fell, she raised her hand and pointed the palm straight at the two bandits that would have her elf scalp for their own. And these words, spoken softly, pierced them to the very core.[/i]

"Nex Necis."

[i]Both raised their weapons, but then dropped them. They had no hands, they had no life, and instead fell into the river and floated away, lifeless, loveless, alone.
Lillutha huffily shook her cloak of water droplets, and wrapped it around her body noce more. She righted her scabbard, belt, and hair, pushing it back into place with her fingertips. The river resumed its natural course, meandering along as it had before. She smiled to herself, grimly, with a cold sick pleasure. No bandit had ever caught her and touched her, much less taken her scalp. She was a cleric, blessed by the Holy Father, untouchable by darkness and the like.

The spell for instant death, Nex Necis, had been handed down to her by her elders. A secret thing, not useable by any other, but the chosen to carry on the line of her belief. And she had been living with it for a while. 12 years at least.

She smiled to herself. Then she turned and continued as usual. The brigands had only chased her, made her travel even further than usual. She was headed to the next town. There was a group of humans there, people that would want to hear what news she had of the forest. She had a great ear for news in the woods. Things travelled to her from the ground, the water, the trees, and the inhabitants of the trees. Things of light would whisper in her ear. Birds would trill their news and she could respond. She smiled again, then rested her hand on her sword as she continued walking.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[Raiha]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]She walked into the town, swiftly raising her hood over her ears. People didn't always like forest elves. She felt all eyes turn on her. But then she figured it was out of their boredom and not their swift and sudden desire to run her out of town. Lillutha walked through it and came to the church. She looked up at the building itself, noticing nothing out of the ordinary.

Once she entered, she felt the energy of spirits descend onto her. It was very quiet. Empty. Apparently it was built for no reason other than to claim as a historical site or a place that endeared it to those of pious nature. It hadn't been burned or hurt in any way, despite attacks, this place remained holy. She smiled and approached the alter. Kneeling, she lit one candle at the retable with her fingertips, then bowed her head and began a simple prayer.[/i]

"Faithful father, hear my prayer."

[i]The first words left her lips and instantly she felt calmed again. As she prayed, she felt an intense pleasure rise through her entire body, starting at her toes and working its way through her folded hands, her fingertips, through her chest and head and surrounding her completely. As she prayed, she wondered to herself if anyone else ever came to pray, but she pushed the thought out of her mind and returned her thoughts to those holy.

..................[/i]

"Forgive me for killing two men today. May their souls find rest."

[i]Eventually she stopped and rose to her feet. When she turned, she noticed nothing out of the ordinary. Instead she felt refreshed, as if she had slept deeply for hours. Later she walked through the city, looking for a quiet and cheap place. Eventually she came to what she recognized as a very nice inn, frugal, kept up, but not exactly high class. She never bothered with more expensive accomidations. As soon as she entered, again, every eye turned to her. When she walked up to the bar, the tender looked dead into her pale gold eyes.[/i]

"You're an elf."

"I'm sorry?"

"We don't serve your kind here."

"Can I at least have a glass of water?"

[i]She gave him what he interpereted as a soulful look. He sighed and set down the requesite glass of water. She thanked him and drank deeply. With one hand she pulled out a tip and placed it in the bowl. He didn't look at it, but she knew that he had heard it. Then she turned, ears perking. Two huge men were standing in front of her. She smelled them. Fear. And anger. She knew she was in trouble, but she didn't draw a weapon or make any sudden moves. The bigger of the two clapped a hand down on her shoulder.[/i]

"You. You killed our mates."

"They were trying to kill me. I did nothing."

"You're a dirty cheating elf. We don't like your kind."

"You're discriminating against me aren't you?"

[i]The thug dug his fingers in deep to her shoulder and she cried out. He laughed and did it again, only to find steely fingers closed on his wrist. Lilutha hissed through her teeth and dug her own fingers in, finding a pressure point. He hollered and released instantly, grabbing his wrist, watching blood ooze up where her nails had pierced him. Then she turned, drawing her sword and impaling his partner. Several people screamed and tables were overturned. Instantly, the entire bar errupted into a huge maelstrom of fighting, kicking, and screaming.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[Shinkoru]

[color=indigo][i]The first thing Kasuka realised, was that she wasn't dead.

The second was that she was very uncomfortable.

Kasuka woke, keeping her breathing the exact same as if she were still asleep. She listened first, hearing nothing she changed her breathing, to someone who might be dreaming. Hearing nothing still she barely opened her eyes, then slightly more, until she laid perfectly still, eyes open. Waking the same way since she was small, letting her know if she was safe or not. A skill she had mastered. Never knowing if a beating awaited her waking or not, never knowing who slept beside her.

She was lain out very sporadically, her legs bent and an odd angle, and someone had placed her atop a piece of armour. She lifted up slightly, eyeing her surroundings. She was in a room, all of wood. 2 bunks sat across from her, but the bed she was laid upon was alone. The window showed the early hours of dawn.

Kasuka sat upright, removing the piece of what she now saw, as an arm plate, the rest of it on the floor beside her. The door to the room closed fully, but a beam of light from the other side showed shadows walking across it. Her breath quickened and she rose and headed to the window. Pulling at the lattice that clung to the bottom of the window she struggled to get out. A small resounding crack, emitted. She froze. The shadow under the door ceased moving and the lock clicked, door sliding open. A man entered, most obviously the one belonging to the armour. His eyes shifted first to the bed, then to her. She blinked, frozen as a deer in the light.[/i]

Man: Well, your awake, good to see. I thought you may sleep forever! I'm Horres.
[i]
Kasuka stuttered, then suddenly the previous day came rushing to her all at once. She swooned, falling to her knees just as he swept in to catch her. He grinned and carried her to the bed, lieing her down again. She looked at him, eyes full of questions he knew he couldn't answer.
[/i]
Kasuka: I...I'm Kasuka...

Horres: Hello. Feel any better? You must be starving! I'll go get you something.
[i]
He stood and exited the room. Kasuka refusing to move just lied there, thoughts running through her head. How is this man, and why did he save me? Did he wish to enslave her? Or worse?make her do things...to him.. or maybe he wished to wed her. She heard rumours of girls being married off as young as 11...

Horres re-entered the room, carrying a steaming bowl of stew. Kasuka stood and ate hungrily while Horres explained all he could.
[/i]
Horres: Well, I bet your wondering why I saved you, well.. I saw you in trouble, and could not let a seemingly innocent child be murdered in the middle of a desert. I don't want you to think badly of me, I mean you no ill will. You can stay as long as you like. Were in The Talon. An Inn on the outskirts of the city. It seemed you were heading here. Might I inquire why?
[i]
Kasuka's eyes widened, her grip on whatever was in her right hand tightened. Horres only nodded and stood, walking to the other bunk to lie down.[/i]

Horres: Well, if you wish to talk, feel free, until then I will keep you as safe as I can.
[i]
Kasuka merely nodded.
[/i]
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~[/color]
[color=darkred][i]

Shikyo sorely wished to find an Inn and settle down for the night. Her husband, however, would not allow that. Much was to be done. Was it to much to ask, to spend the night in your lover's arms before possibly months of searching the city with no time to speak to each other save to yell orders in fights?

They neared a small wooden building, tucked back into an alley. A small, cheep, lantern hung outside the door. Morrslaed pushed the door opened and stepped in before her. The room was dimly lit, a bar to their left, and stair on the right side. Random tabled scattered the small room, only one or two visitors still left out. Walking to the bar he sat, Shikyo preferring to stand.

The bartender walked down, asking about drinks. Morrslaed simply cut him off, stating they needed a room with two beds.

Shikyo was used to this. He always asked for two beds, so people might think they were siblings or related, not lovers.

The man handed Morrslaed the keys and he and Shikyo proceeded upstairs. The moment they entered the room Morrslaed dropped his pack next to one of the beds. Shikyo simply placed hers on the other bed.

Her ears perked up as she felt his presence behind her. The hair on the back of her neck stood, her heart racing. Morrslaed?s hands were around her waist in a instant, his lips found her neck. Turning in his arms they kissed deeply, like a longing had grown since the last time they were truly alone.

His hands wrapped around her, lifting her up as he carried her to the unoccupied bed, laying down pulling her atop him, swiftly drawing the covers over them both. This being the only times they ever let their guard even half way down. Their lips met, both muttering almost un audible I love you's. If anyone ever knew the true extent of their bond.. they could surely use it to destroy them. As long as everyone thought them partners, it was fine. No one could ever know, because even while of making love, they were still very alert, and very deadly....[/i][/color]

[The Harlequin]

[font=gothic][color=darkslategray][i]Normally the first one up, being the slightly more paranoid one, Morrslaed was unsurprised to find Shikyo calmly beside him, her even breathing natural beyond the extent that even one as practiced as they could fake. Without disturbing that measured meter in the slightest, or even ruffling the covers appreciably, Morrslaed rose and dressed, taking care that the various weapons he frequented were in positions that wouldn't vivisect him should he sit down. He'd seen it happen, and even though he didn't find it neccessary to augment his weapons with poison, it was still good practice.

He slipped out, locking the door behind him. The lock was nothing that any footpad worth their salt couldn't defeat in a matter of seconds, but the noise that would create would be enough.

Drawing his hood slightly further down, he descended the stairs to find the barkeep just opening up. The man tossed him a jaundiced look, no doubt due to Morrslaed's cavalier treatment of him last night.[/i]

Barkeep: Care for a drink yet?

Morrslaed: Amontillado.

[i]With a slight start of surprise, the barkeep shook his head and ambled over to the counter, leaning across and uncorking a bottle, while fumbling for a glass with his other hand. Morrslaed accepted the drink with a nod and the flick of a few coins, and downed it in one. Looking critically at the stained and dusty glass, washed clean by the two streamlines of alcohol, one in and one out, it occured to him there was probably a better use for it.[/i]

Morrslaed: Mind if I borrow this?

[i]The barkeep simply snorted and waved him off, given that most of his patrons drank from tankards or flagons, and that that was the first time in years that a bottle of anything had had to be uncorked. This wasn't the most sophisticated joint. It also made Morrslaed slightly curious as to whether he'd misjudged the weight of one of the coins he flicked at the barkeep. For an assassin and criminal, he had quite an objection to coin filing. It made things difficult when he couldn't be damned actually looking at the money he was using.

Tucking the glass into his cloak, Morrslaed stalked outside, swearing softly as the morning light proved a little brighter than he had expected. The bazaar was already busy and crowded, though from what he could see, the illict bargainings had wrapped up a little earlier than usual. That wasn't really a problem, since the person he was after was technically an honest businessman. About as honest as anyone in this city.

He kept his eyes more on the floors of the alleyways he passed than anything else, not being particularly concerned with the morning denizens of the street. Eventually spying what he wanted, he put the glass he'd acquired to use and continued on his way.


The entrance to Sali Dabu's Emporium was slightly off the main street, requiring a bit of a cut across what appeared to be a large open field. It was basically to give the crossbowmen watching the store a clear target, but Morrslaed wouldn't have been concerned about them even if he wasn't known enough not to be bothered.

He should have been anyway. The characteristic heavy twang of the crossbow rang out to his left, so he spun right, a shuriken arcing out from his left hand to impact the windlass, his right hand removing the crossbow bolt from the air. His characteristic weapon was still quivering when he completed the spin, which was identification enough for one of the "concealed" bowmen to stick his head up.[/i]

"New guy...we don't expect him to last long"

[i]Morrslaed new very well that was an invitation, but decided to ignore it, offering the man a wry smile and nod, and continuing on his way.

As soon as he entered the hovel that served Sali Dabu as a storefront, he knew things had changed since he'd been here last. Several heavies lounged around nonchantly, whereas before Dabu had never bothered with extra security. Still, his eyes lit up when he saw Morrslaed, something unexpected, that nevertheless had him fingering the glass in his cloak. One of the thugs walked up to him, a hand on the billy club in his belt.[/i]

"We're closed"

[i]Morrslaed just looked at him. Then disembowled him with a katal, completing the motion cleanly enough that he only had to take one step back to avoid the mess. Returning his katal to its normal position, he dropped the next with a spinning heel. He retracted that leg before dropping it, then stabbed it out to shatter the knee of a third. Using that impact as a spring board, he smashed the tip of his boot into the fourth's temple, then pulled his heel back into the back of the third's neck, a task made easier by the fact that that one was now down on his remaining good knee gasping.

With four of his fellows down, three of them with one leg that hadn't touched the ground since being lifted, the last two decided it would be best to leave. The crossbowmen outside disagreed with them, apparently. Dabu just shrugged ruefully.[/i]

Dabu: A new gang. Haven't been around more than two months.

Morrslaed: What are they bothering you for?

Dabu: They found out somewhere I do a sideline in information.

[i]Information wasn't really a sideline for Dabu, the store was infact a collection of esoteric books and lore. But the information Dabu referred to generally revolved around street politics more than anything else.[/i]

Morrslaed: I've got a single name for you. Kasuka.

[i]Dabu's face went white, which was a pretty neat trick for someone who was naturally as dark as him. Morrslaed expected as such, even given his gratitude for removing the thugs.

Pulling the glass out of his pocket, Morrslaed slammed it down on Dabu's hand. The scorpion inside was normally more than capable of killing in seconds, but at the moment its tail was trapped by the glass. Dabu was deathly afraid of scorpions, but was clearminded enough to know that moving his hand would simply release it. The black arachnid skittered its legs, digging small pinpricks into Dabu's hand.[/i]

Dabu: You haven't gotten particularly nicer.

Morrslaed: There are four unconscious or dead people in the room that would agree with you, but that's a fairly moot issue, since if any of them open their mouth, I'll take their tongue out at the root. You're rather lucky in that regard, since I don't like trying to decipher your writing, I need you to talk.

[i]Morrslaed smiled, and took his hand off the glass. Dabu's quivering made it rock, not quite enough to dislodge it though. Enough to get the point across though.[/font][/color][/i]

[Sir Gawain]

[I]Yes, it was Morrslaed all right. That meant that the other person in his room was Shikyo. Onuir had gotten up at the brink of dawn, deciding that it would be in his best interests to leave the city before the half crazed elf realized he was here.

But, as he had been downing his first flagon of beer, a man had walked down the stairs of the inn, Morrslaed. Whatever his old acquainance was up to, it had to involve large sums of money. Onuir walked back up the stairs, not trying to keep quiet. If Shikyo was in that room, then him trying to be quiet would be like a fish trying to breathe in mud.

When he reached the second story, he realized his only problem. He didn't know which room the two assassins were in. So, he did the most foolish thing he ever could have. He knocked loudly on all of them, jiggling the handles. Several guests popped out, swearing when he claimed to be a beggar. Only one door was locked that nobody came out of.[/I]

Onuir: Shikyo! I know you're in there! Care to have a word? Morrslaed went by downstairs, so I know you two are up to something!

[I]He waited patiently for the woman to open the door. When she did, she had a look about her that would freeze magma. And her voice was just as cold.[/I]

Shikyo: I really don't think you need to know anything about this.

Onuir: And I really don't think that there's too many people in this city that have as much information as myself.

Shikyo: Are you sure? Because we thought you were dead when you were missing from the Marquis' personal guard. Keep questioning me, and you'll be dead soon enough.

[I]He backed off, knowing full well his safety zone in such matters. He resolved to use an outside source to find out what was going on. He had been lying about the amount of information he carried. He was only the fifth best contact in the city, but the best had to be Dabu. Those two would only settle for the best.

As he approached Dabu's shop, he noticed what looked like a small battle had taken place. Four men were lying on the ground, and Dabu himself was sputtering. Something big had gone down, and that meant even more money.[/I]

Onuir: What did Morrslaed want with you, Dabu? Tell me!

[I]Onuir shook the dark skinned man, but he only spoke one word before collapsing. He wasn't dead, yet, but he wouldn't awaken in less than ten hours.[/I]

Onuir: What does it mean? Kasuka? Here Altma! We've got some work to do, and you'll get plenty of horse meat out of this if this means anything about valuables.

[I]The large wolfish creature came bounding up to him from around the corner of the wall, lowering onto his haunches so that the dwarf could easily mount. But before he could take off, he heard someone yelling at him, and turned to see a small figure in the distant gates.[/I]

???: Hey! Hey, you! Wait! I need to have a word with you!

Onuir: This can't be good.

[Heartless Me]

Ratu sat in his room in the barracks which had been provided for him when he told the short on men guard that he would join their ranks for a week for food and some extra spending money. The thin lanky looking man held his sword in hand sitting on the bed that was assigned him in deep meditation. He felt the flow and ebb of lifeforce around him. Every heartbeat, every breath, even the tiniest of synapses through each persons brain so deep was his link in this trance. There were beings of considerable power in this city. he could sense it, hear it, even taste the strength in body, mind, and spirit these beings possessed. One of those beings approached him and though in this enlightened frame of existance drew him nearly to another plane mentally his body still reacted pulling the disguised soul sword from it's sheathe in a split second and holding it out letting his body and mind recollaborate. Slowly, Ratu's eyes open as he sees the tip of his blade less than an inch from the Constable Captains throat.

"Those are quite some reflexes you got there for a little guy."

'Thanks, That's about all i got.'

"I'll believe that when my pig learns elven."

Ratu managed to will the illusion surrounding his body to smile as he stared at the constable his smiling fades replaced by a very serious look. Slowly he pulled back the blade and resheathed it straightening out his outfit.

'Is there something I can help you with captain?'

"Well yes, actually, there is Ratu. I had a report not to long ago about a disburbance at the Sali Dabu, I was hoping that you could go look into it for me?"

'Disturbance? I heard that it was a slaughter.'

The captains eyes widen hearing Ratu's words, how could he have known?! The news had traveled that fast? He refused to believe it but decided against bringing it up since he had noone else available to go investigate.

"Yes, well in any case, I need a smart man to go investigate this and report back to me. Can you do this for me please?"

An exasperated sigh and a tilt of his neck cracking several bones and Ratu started walking toward the door, his gait was long legged for how short he was and almost robotic in motion. Stopping at the door he turned his head back and spoke to the man in charge.

'I will go. After all it's what i'm getting paid for isn't it? And if I tell you I won't do it then i dont' get paid. right?'

Before he was given a response, Ratu left the barracks and headed towards where Dabu was last at.


-----------------------------------------------

Ratu's mind kept wandering. The presenses he felt in the town, some good, some not so, and others simply for themselves. The barracks were just outside the gate of town so it wasn't too far away for him to walk to Sali Dabu he had just to walk around the wall and through the gate and... What's this? The door is open and there are men everywere? It's just as he'd felt. Four life forms cute short quickly and cleanly, but who was this man? He felt the energy, An upright positive force flowing from him, at least in comparison to what he's used to with his profession and all. Sighing he called out to him.

'Hey! Hey, you! Wait! I need to have a word with you!"

Ratu couldn't help but hold back a smile at the almost disgusted look on the mortals face. Flashing the badge he was given to show that he's working for the town guard the other man gave a nervous grin and bow.

"Can I ask you what you are doing here son?"

'Son? I'm older than you are.'

"You are avoiding the question."

'No i'm just stating a fact.'

"Whatever, what are you doing around four dead people and an unconcious merchant infront of you?"

'Dabu is an acquaintance of mine, I heard some rumors that he might have been in trouble so I came to his aid only to be too late.'

Ratu blinked as the man gave his excuse and raised an eyebrow his apparently iced blue eyes looking this person over before pulling out a parchment and ink quill.

"Alright, I'll start with your name address and a full statement about everything you know for my report."

[Gelgoog Pilot]

OOC:: Neuvoxraiha, I'm making this post assuming you're in the city we all are...if you aren't well frankly you should be since anyware esle would sort of...hinder the story...no offense meant. :animedepr

Horres woke up the light coming through the cracks in the sudders played on his tunic. He gave a deep yawn, noticing that Kasuka was still awake and sitting in an upright postion. Even odder was the look of terror on her face as she stared at the door and the bar room unseen on the other side. Then Horres heard it, a scuffle. A rather large one at that, glass was shattering, tables busting apart, and the shouts of both men and women could be heard.

[B]"Stay here Kasuka, I'm going to see what exactly is going on..."[/B]

Horres unsheathed his scimitar and peeked out through the crack he make for himself, immediatly getting a face full of liquid splashed upon him by a thrown bottles smashing against the door. He saw a general brawl going on. with a few minor oddities. The first was an Elven women among the brawn men of the desert. The second being the man who lay dead and bleeding on the oaken floor of the tavern. He could basically see what had happened. Just like in most human cities, some racist oaf managed to piss off a skilled Elven warrior.

She looked rather overwhelmed dispite her obvious skill at fighting. Not being one to let undeserving people get hurt, Horres lept into the motely fray, his scimitar slicing off the ear of a rather large bearded man. He shouted loudly and dropped his dagger, racing out of the bar in a frantic retreat. Another burely man, no doubt the other's friend came at Horres with a mean looking axe. He was not so fortunate as to lose an ear however, as the scimitar made a sing-song noise before is dug into the man's fleshy gut.

By now the severity of the brawl changed many of the participants minds as they fled or returned to the bar. A few of them looked at the now blood stained man as he cleaned his sword. One in particular caught his eye, it was a young women, standing calmly on the steps to the upper level. Her hand ready to unleash her weapon from it's sheath. Horres knew her from somewhere. He couldn't quite think of it however, then in a torrent it came to him.

[I]OH shit! It's her! Damn it...where is the other?...Does she recognize me? Damn Horres that was a mistake showing yourself like that...[/I]

He looked around quickly, discovering that the only person looking at him now was the Elf girl, the male assasin was not present...or at least as far as he could tell.

[B]"Hello my name is Lillutha, thanks for the help but it wasn't needed."[/B]

[Raiha]

[COLOR=MediumTurquoise]Thanks, the breaded man might have gotten me...[/COLOR]

[center]~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~[/center]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Lilluthia smiled slightly. She noted the female assassin standing at the stairs. Her back stiffened slightly and she wiped her blade without dropping her gaze. Skillfully she spun it and dropped it into its sheath across her hip. Horres bowed slightly. She shook her hair out and retied it again. He watched her move, her fingers slowly sweeping back long strands of red and gold hair.

Horres stood still as she walked towards him, the blood on her cloak fading as the fabric absorbed the stains into itself.[/i]

"Why did you interfere?"

"You looked overwhelmed."

"I assure you that what you saw was not what really was."

[i]He blinked. Her voice was lower than a woman's wont. Soft and lilting, and very strange to him. She spoke the common tongue but she had a bizare accent. An accent he hadn't heard before. It caused images to come to his mind. But maybe it was just her. She was obviously a forest elf. A ranger of sorts. He caught the marks on her skin and forehead.[/i]

"I'm sorry I intruded."

"It's alright. I recieve your help in the spirit that it was given. May Aresta bless you."

[i]She was a cleric. A warrior of the Forest Elves, and a cleric. He bowed again and walked back up the stairs to where he knew his charge was waiting. The woman on the stairs was gone. Lilluthia closed her eyes and inhaled, then she exhaled and exited the building. She wouldn't stay. She could envision the knife that would find her in the dark. Into the back, between the ribs. She shivered and then walked out into the cold night air. She drew up the hood of her cloak and began to run.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[Sir Gawain]

Onuir: If you want to jot down everything I know, then you'll have to buy more paper than this city could provide in ten years.

[I]He knew it wasn't the smartest the to do, but making fun of the local law enforcement was always a good dwarf's pasttime. But the man in front of him seemed different, very deadly. He was glad that Altma was lying in wait for any signal, that way the man couldn't bring back a pretty dwarf pelt.[/I]

Ratu: No need to be a smartass, son. Just tell me everything you know about the current situation of things with this dead man.

Onuir: Well, I'd have to say that he's definetly not at the center of this. I was following an assassin, if you must know, so as to protect any future clients I might have in this city. You see, I work as a professional bodyguard, but obviously Dabu needed one with more skill than I.

Ratu: I can see that clearly. There's no way you could've killed these men to where they'd be lying like this. What was the name of the assassin, I'll have to bring investigation of this matter to the police.

[I]Onuir could barely hide his excitement. Here was his chance to finally be rid of those two who had treated him like dirt despite his help.[/I]

Onuir: I'll do better than that. Before he went unconcious, Dabu told me where they're staying.

Ratu: 'They?' I suppose that's good enough. Take me to them.

Onuir: Gladly.
- - - - - - - - - - -

OOC: This should get everyone placed back at the bar, for the most part.

[Shinkoru]

[color=indigo][i] Kasuka sat silently wating, watching the man that had risked his own life to save her. The item in her hand clutched to her brest tightly, so much so that her arm hurt, and she feared her bones would shatter if she released her grip.

A sudden crash errupted from outside the door, and yelling followed. Her heart raced. Was it them? Did they find her? No she conculded, for they would have her dead already if they had. She gulped as Horres stood. Why did he have to be shuch a nice guy?

She stood and walked to the window, peering out it, she noted she was safely inside the city. Rather far from the northern gate, which was where she needed to be; however she feared to ask this stranger for help.. no one helped trash, the likes of her. most likeyly he would she how useless she proved to be and he would sell her. No matter whathe said. Men lied, that much she knew.. but this one, seemed.diffrent. A fool no less. An honest fool maby, but a fool.

She paced across the room, looking in drawers and hidden compartments, nosing mostly, but also looking for a hiding place, if it came to that.

Horres reentered the room and sat on the bed, seemingly lost in his toughts. Kasuka turned again to the window and saw a figure running. Her eyes widened and she grabbed a goblet from the table and threw it at the window. Without hesitation she jumped from the second story, landing seemingly without harm on her feet.

The woman stopped short and turned, hearing the noise. Kasuka ran to her, hoping her tiny size would detur the woman from drawing a blade. [/i]

Kasuka: Miss please! Don't go!!!

[i] Kasuka fell into the womans open arms, tears flodding her face, the child's crying soothed by the woft, almost wind like wispers of the womans voice.[/i]

Kasuka: I..I saw you, there. You knew her, you knew Godmama... you held me when she died! I.. saw you..was it a dream? .... please I...

[i] Kasuka's eyes closed, her eyes rolling back into her head. A flash errupted in her mind, blinding her cnoushous. She saw a man, leading a city guard out of a wooded area.

Kasuka fell back, hitting the ground. Her eyes opened and she turned to find Horres standing beside her and the woman. Supposedly she had been out for sevral minutes.

She quickly stood and clung desprately to Horre's shirt. Her eyes tearing and wide with fear.[/i]

Kasuka: Its them! They, well, and man that knows them! He's leading a city guard and there headed here! and ..he..he knows my name! but he dunno what it means....

Lillutha: Child calm. Tell me..how long, have you had them?

Kasuka: Oh.. that. Um...as long as I can remember, I guess.

[i]Lillutha's eyes narrowed. Her darling had grown so much. How was she to know..as a half elf, she would inherit the sight? And from her display on jumping from the window, at least some of the agility known to elves. How..could she have known?

Another thought also troubled her. With a quick elegant movement her long slender fingers reached out and pulled the har from the side of Kasukas face to behind her ear. Her heart caught in her throught as she stared unblinking.

Kasuka cringed and turned head tear streaked eyes away from Lillutha. From the top of her ear to the middle of the back side, was scarred and healed over. Her first master, seeing the points starting to devlope, saw fit to cut her ears, so she looked human. The other ear matched it. Kasuka bit her lip, almost to the point of bleeding.

Horres just started, a slight watery look to his eyes. Lillutha knelt and picked up the crying child, holding her in her arms gently. [/i]

Horres: We have to leave, now.

[i] Horred nodded. Slightly startled he noticed something odd. Even with the jumping from the window, and crying now, her left hand remained tightly fisted, never opening even a fraction. This unsettled him somewhat, but he understood the pain of keeping a secrete that could end your life.

The three stole away into the night, taking back alleys and hidden ways, making their way toward the norther gate of the city...[/i]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~[/color]
[color=darkred][i]
Shikyo's eyes narrowed the moment she awoke hearing random knocking. The person in question was sevral doors away, but she knew the destination.

"fool"

She mumbled to herself. What an idioth e was. And he yelled her name!.. he would pay sorely. She dressed with lightning speed, deep down longing for her husband, knowing full well last night would not happen again for quite some time.

She flung the door open, only to find the world's biggest idiot standing before her.[/i]

Shikyo: *mumbling* I thought we killed you already...

Onuir: What was that miss?

Shikyo: Nothing! What do you want you insolent food. I should run you through right now.
[i]
He commenced in babbeling on about knowing something or other, she only half listened, her mind on other things. She gave him a gleering look and slammed the door. Throwing her hand up once inside, a small purple glow emitted from the door and all outside sound silenced. The wood door also didnt lock, it simply grew, as any tree would, into the wood frame, making a solid wall, that looked like their was a door there. She knew Morrslaed would use the window upon his return anyway.

There was a tree placed oddly perfect with their window. She knew why he had chosen this room. An easy exit without having to drain their sgrenth using magic.

Shikyo suited up, collecting her belonging and opened the window, looking around inside one last time. It looked normal enough, she left a knife under the pillow on purpose, the bed sheets on both beds ruffled and looking as if fully slept in, and some random clothing on the floor. Yes, normal. As if she knew what that was anyhow.

Jumping from the window to the tree branch, she tood for a moment, poised perfectly, slender feet on almost tiptoe as she gased around. Clear blue desert sky, not a cloud to be seen as far as the horizon. The wind wipped through her hair, her long ponytail splaying out behind her. She closed her eyes softly, listening. The foot steps of the people in the bizzar, the slight rustle of tree leaves, foot steps approaching her, the soft chirp of baby birds.. wait, footsteps...

Someones hand tightly grasped her shoulder, and that same someones lips pressed softly to her neck.[/i]

Morrslaed: Beautifull.
[i]
Shikyo's lips arched upward ever so slightly.[/i]

Shikyo: Hardly. I know we have met women ten tims ad beautifull on our travles my love.

Morrslaed: Not hardly is more the correct term my dear. As of all the women you are by far the most stunning, with your elegant and most raidant beauty.
[i]
Shikyo silenced, knowing he never lied. Well, maby hes just blind. She figured as much sometimes when it came to her.

She turnd swiftly around, lightning speed, and just as smoothly, pressed her lips to his for a fraction of a second, before leaping from the tree, to land softly on the ground; without so much as a thud. She landed in a kneel, and quickly stood, Morrslaed already standing next to her.

Shikyo turned her head, looking up to the sun. It was around 2pm. Good. Enough daylight hours to ask around, then they could hunt tonite. Sniffing out a small child shouldn't prove too difficult of a task.

Morrslaed walked brishly from the small courtyard, pulling his hood up, even in the daylight. Shokyo did the same, but save the fact the instant she drew up her hood, she vanished. So morrslaed walked, seemingly alone, except for in shadow, Shikyo walked beside him. The gifts of a daycloak, making the wearer invisivle by sunlight when the hood is drawn. And when the hood is down she casts no shadow, by any light.[/i][/color]

_____________________________________
OOC: As usual I promise this will be spell checked ASAP! :)

[The Harlequin]

[font=gothic][color=darkslategray][i]Having come back to the inn to find Oniur already in residence, so to speak, Morrslaed slid the glass into the common room and walked around the back. Hunched up in his cloak, he was appeared just another derelict walking into an alley. The supposedly inconspicuous guards hadn't noticed him on the way in.

They didn't notice him on the way out either. There was no way they were going to notice Shikyo, of course. He wasn't particularly fond of her cloak, he preferred keeping her much closer than that. He could still pinpoint where she was, but not having the visual contact perturbed him. Not that he'd let it show to anyone but her, as with most things about the two of them. He half figured she continued using it to underscore some kind of subtle point.

Before Onuir could come outside and start cauterwauling to the guards about their disappearance, a circuitous route took Morrslaed and attendent invisible to the opposite side of the street behind the men-at arms. Casually walking up behind them, he drove a fist into a kidney, turned, and walked off.

He got about five steps before the shock wore off and the guards started chasing them. He felt Shikyo step aside and stay out of it, which was fine with him, since he didn't want to have to worry about her and evade the men without killing too many of them. He'd start injuring them if they lost interest, of course, but at the moment he wanted them alive and vocal.

Immediately setting a pace that would force them to work without flagging, except for the particularly fat corporal, he lead them into the bazaar, and the pursuit was immediately picked up by several other men at arms. A few more several paces in front of him turned to capture him, only to have Morrslaed flip right over them and continue.

Darting into the first tavern, he snatched up a tankard and hurled it across the room at an off-duty halberdier, causing the man to erupt in a howl of curses and draw steel, several other guards following suit. Immediately running out, Morrslaed repeated the process in several other taverns up and down the street, avoiding the clumsy attempts to grab him and the few stray crossbow bolts with ease. Eventually he had in excess of one hundred men chasing him, and he figured that was enough.

He now turned his attentions to the various stalls, particularly the more prosperous ones, and weaved his way through them, his less agile pursuers overturning carts and tables in their haste and anger. Slowing occasionally to throw the odd taunt, Morrslaed led them around for a quarter of an hour or so, just up and down the main street, before vaulting onto a stall roof and from there into a third story window. He was out of the building and away before most of men at arms released he'd even left.

With the bazaar in chaos, merchants importuning shrilly for recompense, and looters out in force, there'd be far too much going on for the next few days from the guards to be worrying about him. Just the kind of personal headache he liked to deliver to positions of authority.

Turning his mind to more important matters, he made his way back to the inn, but could find no sign of Shikyo. Fighting down momentary panic, Morrslaed took a deep breath and slouched against the wall of the alley, pulling his hood down a little further and simply waiting. About fifteen minutes later, a soft voice murmured "Miss me?" in his ear.

Morrslaed visibly sagged with relief. He never would have chanced such a public display had Shikyo been visible, but with no one to make the connection, he was content to let the extent of his feelings show. Even with her invisible, he had no trouble seeking out her hand and grasping it tightly, unwilling to separate himself from her for another period just quite yet.

Still, they had work to do, and no doubt at least one of the guards had started to circulate a description of him. It would make life interesting for a while.[/font][/color][/i]