Spirits of the Earth

Jazbel took another swing of ale, laughing as loud as the rest of the men  at the table. He shoved his cards over towards one who was shuffling a deck. The man proudly collected his winnings, a small pile of copper coins and even a silver, and loudly ordered another  drink from the serving girl the moment his mug ran dry.
Lose the next game, he told himself as he placed his next bet, leaning back easy into his chair.
The man crossed his arms as he chuckled at a rowdy joke the thug next to him was making. What the joke was about, Jazbel had no idea. To laugh at the right moment was a habit, a matter of instinct for him. What interested him more than the story of the merchant's wife was the pouch that the only woman across the table wore by her side.

Her name was Asven Rednet, who was keenly watching the cards being distributed. She was a large woman, broad of structure with ample curves and  skin tanned and burned from the sun. Her face was gruff, with deep set keen blue eyes and scars most men would envy.  Her clean hair was divided in braids.
The infamous mercenary and treasure hunter/i], he thought.
A smug smirk rose to his face.
A letter had been sent to him by a noblewoman from the Valley by the name of Noki. He had worked for the woman before, so contacting him was within her means. According to her letter, which was n code, Asven had in her pouch a bronze sphere puzzle. To contact knights or any other sort of authority would have been to hasty for Ms. Noki's means. Jazbel didn't know all the details, but the sphere itself wasn't strictly legal, especially not in Connloath. The man was also vague on the story on how the mercenaries requited the trinket.

The puzzle, it seemed, belonged to Noki's family. It was hidden in a tomb of her ancestors, along with several other invaluable pieces. However, this was the one that she cared for, the most valuable piece, thought Noki wouldn't tell Jazbel why. All he knew was that he was being paid generously for tracking Asven down and figuring out to whom she was harboring the puzzle for. It was all rather troubling information, but the man didn't try to wrap his head around such thoughts. All he was focused on was completing his job and retrieving the coin he was promised. And his job, it seemed, was practically complete.  After tracking the woman and her band of men for the past two weeks, his efforts had paid off. It wasn't hard, he had found, to track such a queer pack of wolves.
And alcohol can be a fine truthsayer.
Judging by the vague babbles that they told each other, their destination was the Hallow. Asven, though, she was silent as a rock, seemingly weary of the game at hand. She was suspicious of Jazbel, too, he could feel it from the hard glares she sent at him. However, there was nothing unusual about a stranger joining in on a game of cards. Half the men and wrenches at the table were all paying to stay at the inn for the night, to keep out of the cold, night rain.

The rain pelted against the window as Jazbel examined the cards he had received. He sighed at the lousy hand before turning his head to observe the musicians. Sunset was only a few hours ago, it seemed, but their spirit was already dying, their songs running dry.
Might as well turn in soon, too, Jazbel mused.
These men and Asven didn't seem to look like they were going much anywhere, and there was nothing much to do in these parts of Connloath.

"Ah, bloody hell, does it have to be raining so hard?" Ellarrah moaned as her boots hastened along the road, splashing mud.  "Ugh, after all of this I'll be needing a good washing to get this mud all offa me."
She wrinkled her nose, but kept moving, knowing the town was nearby, and inside the town, the warm welcoming glow of a tavern would be.  Pausing beneath a tree, she took a moment to shuffle her black jacket, which barely clothed her.  The rain was far too cold, and was seeping in through all of the gaps of her leather get up.

She wore a jacket with a gaping front, broadcasting her gifted assets to all of the men in the world as the jacket squeezed her breasts together, creating snug, ample cleavage.  But the rain did not care, and was easily pelting her chest with it's cold ignorance as she gave a sneeze.

"Blasted jacket," she said, huffing as she gave up in her attempts to stay warm and shook her red hair out like a dog. "Ugh," running her fingers through it, she frowned. "I can't even begin to imagine how horrendous my hair probably looks right now." She wrinkled her nose about it then worked at loosening the pouch fastened to the side of her belt.  It was then her soured expression softened.

"Just as I left it," she said with a sigh. "The money pouch is empty."
Sighing, she latched the pouch back to her waste and ran a hand anxiously through her hair, when she suddenly spotted the warm glow of a tavern- Just as she had hoped.

"Great bowls of ale!" she exclaimed. "I was closer than I thought!"
Adjusting her breasts, and brushing off the water that had collected across her chest, she made for the tavern and threw the door open.

Stepping inside, she had hoped to be discrete, but it seems a lot of the tavern folk turned her way.  She stared back at them, but after a moment, brushed her wet hair aside as she dusted off her hands and walked across the room towards the front desk.

"A room and a warm bath," she told the merchant.

"I"m sorry, but there is no vacancy, and there is a waiting list for a bath."

Ellarrah made a face.
"Ansgar's sake, you gotta be shittin' me," she said, shaking her head.  "Well, you've at least got some ale?" she said, almost expecting the man to tell her they were out of that, too.

Smiling, he replied, "Yes, would you like a mug?"

"Two mugs," she corrected him. "But better make sure I at least get three. It's been a rough night." She said as she began to ring out her hair. Spotting the fire, she smirked.  "Be a love and have 'em bring me the ale over by the fire."s he said, and went and made herself cozy at the last vacant seat.

Once seated, she began to towel off the best she could, but her wet clothes and body glistened, the warm, dancing flames of the fire only amplifying her condition.  Not that she cared, especially when the ale was brought to her.

"Thanks, love!" She said, saluting him. "Just add it to my tab. I'll pay once the rain let's up."

THe man nodded and returned to his books to set her up an account.
"Sure thing Miss-" and here he paused for her to reply.

Smirking, she raised her ale to him, which was already half gone.
"You write it in as Lady Ellarrah," she said, swishing her drink towards him before guzzling it down and wiping at her mouth. "So where's that second one? Remember I asked for two!" she said with a smirk.

The tavern owner only stared. "I thought, well, you asked for three," he replied in good humora nd she gave a loud laugh in reply, slapping his back hwen he brought the second beer.

"You're a clever one!" she giggled. "I'll be sure to add a good tip for ya," she replied with a wink, then tossed her head back and enjoyed the brew, and the lovely, bubbly affect it did to her mind.
"Ah, there ain't nothing like a warm fire, a cold ale and some peace and quiet." she said to herself.
Taking a moment, she observed her surroundings. She was poor, but knew she'd find a clever way to pay her bills, and that's when her eyes fell upon Asven Rednet, as her eyes began to nonchalantly examine her belongings.

"She'll do," Ellarrah informed herself beneath her breath, so that no other patron could here as she finished her drink and hollered.
"Hey, where's my third drink!?"

Jazbel knew trouble when he saw it, and it had gorgeous red hair and a fiery spirit to match it. Loud shouts turned to murmurs as the men watched the new stranger strut into the bar and order her drinks. Some were in awe, due to their lonely and inebriated status, but all were suspicious.They had to be; that was how their crew stayed alive for so long. Jazbel couldn't help but to admire the woman, himself. She looked like she pasted the usual marriageable age. She dressed wildly, a bit too wildly and masculine for Jazbel's tastes, but she was eye catching. However,  a quick call to attention rouse the band of mercenaries attention back towards the game.

"Your turn," the man next to him pointed out. He was short and squat of structure, with a head of thinning black hair and a bush black beard.
"Yes," Jazbel replied  as he pushed forward one of his betting sticks, aloof as you please. He tried to listen in on that woman's conversation. She was ordering a drink, that was as clear as day, though it was hard to pick up a name from here, where it was so loud.
No doubt the tavern keep knows, he thought.
Jazbel didn't know why he was so drawn in. He supposed it was because he welcomed the distraction. Besides, it wasn't often lone travelers entered taverns at this hour, especially not decent women. As a man who made it his business to know others secrets, Jazbel was interested in learning a little about hers.

As the game's pace began to pick up, Jazbel noticed that the strange woman was watching them. That wasn't really unusual. Theirs was the largest group, and the queerest set of gamblers Jazbel reckoned that were in these parts. He only threw her glances out of the corner of his eye now and then, but to the man, it seemed that she was staring intensely at them. It made him feel... uncomfortable. Like she was waiting for something. It took him four turns to realize why. She was staring right at his target.
Damnit.

Jazbel rose to his feet as the fifth person did their turn. The others glanced at him, suspiciously.
"Are you dropping out?" the dark headed man asked.
There was a tone of threat in his voice; if Jazbel was dropping out, he had better show them the coin.
Jazbel only smiled in return.
"The game's not over, gentlemen," he said. "I'm merely getting a drink."
The man leaned against the bar.
"Wine. Red," he ordered as he slapped three coppers down. The tavern keeper, who was wiping down mugs, nodded. As he left to get the bottle, Jazbel took the liberty to look around the bar. Just as he thought, the woman was looking right at  Asven.

The man frowned.
Was she after the puzzle, too?
He couldn't be too certain how many people knew that piece of information.
Jazbel had to be careful- he could not afford that piece falling into the wrong hands. The tavern keep handed him the bottle before filling a mug with beer.
That must be for the woman, he thought.
"I'll take care of that, thanks," Jazbel said with a grin as he grasped his bottle in his other hand.
He casually walked over towards Ellarrah.
"Here you go, Miss," he cheerfully said before returning to his game.
I've my eyes on you. Don't interfere.

OOC: Feel free to control the men/Asven :3

And just as easily as that, Ellarrah changed targets.  It would be far easier to rob the man who got her that drink- after all, she would only need enough money for room and board, a bath and maybe a few more rounds of beer...

After all, if getting her her beer wasn't the sign he was flirting or interested in a little playful tumble, she didn't know what was.  She had been (somewhat) aware of the other men staring at her, but then again, Ellarrah had grown used to it over the years, because of her choice of attire (and because of how much she er, matured).

"Thanks for the beer, love," She told Jazbel as she raised her mug in his honor, then began to celebratory drinking of it.  THough after he had settled back to his game, she figured she might as well join him and check the crowd out.

When she approached, a few of the men, who had been distracted back towards their game, nudged one another and gestured to her with a wicked smirk when she approached.  They all had pretty uninnocent thoughts for what they were thinking towards a girl like that.

"So," she began, draping a hand upon Jazbel's chair.  "What sort of game are you blokes all playin'?" She eyebaled the table, even Jazbel's hand with a smirk before looking, somewhat intoxicatingly towards the others at the table.

"Why don't you have a seat with us?" one of the men offered as he pulled out one of the vacant chairs besides him and Jazbel.  Grinning, Ellarrah nodded to that.

"I think I might just take you up on that offer, friend." she said and took her seat, getting rather comfortable at the table and appearing as happy as a clam, as if they were all old chums (not a hard face to pull off considering how complacent she was after her drink- not that she believed it was impairing her judgement or anything...)

"So," she began, leaning forward in her chair as her chest rested ontop of her elbows upon the table. "What's going on in this game? Who's winning anyhow?"

And who would be the best person to steal from?
Her eyes went flirtatiously to Jazbel as she gave him a grin.
"Would any of you men care to explain all of this?" She wasn't stupid, but men loved to impress a lady, and that's what she was, a lady.

Perhaps if the Jazbel person had too shallow of pockets, at least she could flirt, get the man drunk, then steal the money from whomever got his winnings.

If not, she still had her back up plan, still believing that Asven probably held the most. She didn't know why she thought this, but consider it thief's intuition....  either way, she'd be quite content flirting a bit with that handsome fellow who was kind enough to get her her drink; then she could be well on her way to feeling up his...

pockets.

"Oh ho," Jazbel chuckled as Ellarrah approached.
So she took  my offering as an invitation, he thought, amused.
Fine by him. Easier to keep track of her, that way.
As long as she was distracted from his target, that was the important bit, though it was hard to say if Ms. Asven was distracted from the lass. Rednet deeply scowled at the girl, clearly disapproving of her presence.
Careful, sweetheart, Jazbel thought as he turned his attention towards Ellarrah, who was suddenlly being seated right next to him.
That one's got a fiery temper. What are you up to?

Instead of asking, Jazbel offered the younger lady as kind as a smile as he could muster. He was a man of refined tastes. He knew how to properly conduct himself around ladies better than most common folk, he'd like to think. Ah, but she was a charmer. Jazbel chuckled as she made herself as cozy as she pleased, leaning forward and asking questions. She tickled at the men's pride, he could see it.
"My dear, the game's just started," he replied smoothly.
She acted coy and dumb, but Jazbel knew she had a clever mind.
"You're a forward one," he said, giving a little bow.
"M'lady, allow me to present myself.  I am Jazbel Oraca, perhaps you've heard of me."
He waved towards Rednet, about to introduce her.
The woman only glared.

Jazbel flinched.
Now was clearly not the best time. The man sighed as the bushy beard man took upon the offers to loudly explain the  rules to the lady. Jazbel could have rolled his eyes. The man was talking politely, to be sure, but so simple and slow, as if the woman was a mere child.
Not so much a child, he thought.
The thugs eyes were wandering from places past the lady's eyes.

Jazbel politely coughed to interrupt the explanation.
"MIss, might I ask whom you are?" he asked.
"Yes," Rednet's voice boomed from the opposite side of the table.
"Who are you? And for that matter-"
Her eyes turned towards Jazbel.
"Mr. Orarca, what business do you have here?"
Jazbel raised his bottle of wine towards the woman.
"Easy, madam," he said, making a 'sit down' gesture.
"I'm simply a wandering musician with a passion for cards and fine company."

Rednet's men clapped at that, but Rednet didn't buy it, muttering such as "harlots," "brothels," and "scum alike." Jazbel waved a hand at that.
"Don't listen to her. Too much to drink," he whispered, cheerfully with a little wink as he slapped another card down once his turn came around.
Still, Jazbel was cautious. Rednet was turning to a foul mood, and he didn't want to lose her quite yet.

Ellarrah was not a woman to take lightly to comments of that nature, but clamped her mouth shut when Jabel whispered for her, suggestion she remained ignorant.

"I'll show her too much drink..." she muttered under her breath, no doubt only Jazbel might be the only one to hear it.  She put away her visions of bashing the woman's face in her with drink and took another swig of her beer.

She wasn't about to answer the question on who she was, that was, until the man seated beside her asked it again.
"So Missy, I think we were asking for a name." he grinned with rotting teeth.
Ellarrah offered a weaker smile in return.

"You can call me Ellarrah," she said, loudly and most jovially.

"Ellarrah?" the man tried it, and grinned. "Well, pretty lady, why don't we buy you a drink?" he said, and he was no fool, as Ellarrah looked down at her nearly empty glass of beer. She was already drunk, but the man hoped to get her as intoxicated as he could- after all, who knew what such company might bring later when all of the beds were already 'taken'.

"You can buy me two if you'd like," she offered, almost a purr. She rather liked being catered to. Perhaps she should have waited for this man to offer her these drinks earlier, but her confidence needed a boost. After all, she felt rather wretched when wet, even as the other men stared at her and admired it.

Despite procuring herself a fourth drink, she turned to the other man sitting next to her and grinned like a cat towards Jazbel.  It looked as if she was about to say something, but she did not. She figured if she was going to get drunk, she might as well look at the more handsome fellow.

Jazbel tried not to chuckle at the comment, least Rednet decided it was time for them to die. He  grimaced as the other man sitting besides the lady so tactlessly asked her for her name, though he was pleased to see that the young woman acted as if it didn't bother her.
So her name's Ellarrah, he thought, smiling at the name.
It meant nothing to him, though it sounded as if it should have been vaguely familiar. Jazbel just couldn't reason out why, so he didn't bother with it.
"That's a beautiful name, Ellarrah," he complimented, clicking his bottle against her mug before draining a sip.

Jazbel grinned back at the younger woman, though he had other things he needed to figure out before the game was up. He already knew that the mercenaries were travelling to the Hallow. Still, the city was a large one. He wanted to know where they were going, specifically. Rednet had to be working for somebody, but who?
Maybe I could use this girl, he mused as he turned to Ellarrah.
"I see you carry a sword," Jazbel observed as he watched the others place their bets, one by one.
"Not too many do. Well, except these men. They're mercaneries.They're strong and efficent, aye?" Jazbel said as he nudged the black beared man. The man only grunted in return, though his chest swelled in pride at the compliment.
"Aye," Jazbel repeated with a nod.
"Wouldn't want to be on the other ends of their swords," he said as a word of caution.
Rednet scoffed at Jazbel's flattery.
"You continue that jabber, and I'll see to it that you will," she snapped.

Jazbel chuckled.
"Now, now, madam, no need to get so testy," he retorted.
Jazbel returned his attention towards Ellarrah.
"You strike me as the sort that travels," he said. "Am I wrong? We all are, you see."
Jazbel patted the blonde drawf of a man that sat next to him.
"They're heading towards the Hallow, right?"
The blonde man nodded, which Jazbel mimiced.
"Yes, I fancy heading in that direction myself," he told Ellarrah.
"I pick up most of the new songs there,. Then I can bring them to Serendipity and play them in courts. They're quite beautiful. Have you ever been to Arca?"

OOC: feel free to start the fight. if not, i'll do it next post . XD Was gonna do it this one, but I need to go to bed ><

"Mercernaries, eh?" she said, rubbing her chin thoughtfully.  It was when Rednet kept her sass Ellarrah smiled. She liked that woman already. Maybe she'd be off the hook of stealing from her? THough, it would be awfully fun!

Turning to Jazbel, she listened to his stories of distant lands.
"Can't say that I've had the pleasure, but perhaps some day,"she replied.  "I do most of my adventurin' in Connlaoth, the open road, my home." Then patting her sword, then she added," ANd yeah, I keep my brother's sword with me as a memento. It also has helped me out in a prickly pinch.  Most wild animals and men would hardly mess with a lass wielding something so sharp."
She then thought about their destination.

"The Hallow? Is that nearby?" she inquired, wondering if this place was of any interest, or if she had ever been. It was hard to tell, some towns looked like others and this was one she just so happened to wander into in the middle of the night during the rain.

It was about that time the inn keep approached the lady.
"Miss?"

Ellarrah turned a casual glance over her shoulder.
"Yeah? Whadya want?"

"It seems a, um, change on the list has occurred and the gentlemen in the corner has offered you  his position on the list for the bathing room."

Ellarrah only stared.

So the inn keep cleared his throat. "That means there is a bath ready for you."

"Ohhh..." Ellarrah smirked at the thought and eyed the man in the corner. He was a tall fellow, gristly beard, long dark hair and an air of mystery about him.  Never her mind, a bath was a bath, and she wouldn't pass it up.  She nodded to the fellow and smirked as she rose from the table.
"Thanks!" she accepted the clean towel for the inn keep as he bowed and rushed away.  Throwing the towel over her shoulder, she stood and grinned at all the men at the table. "Well, I must apologize, but I have a bath waiting for me." she announced with a fluff of her red hair, then strolled right on past them and headed for the back room.


After the woman was gone, things seemed to go back to normal,- except the dark man had vanished, but not without gesturing to Rednet about who Ellarrah was. He was aware of her profession, and was not about to let her get close. He wasn't sure if she was after any of their bounty, or treasure, but he wasn't about to find out.


The inn keeper was growing nervous, the bathing room was located on the main floor, and he had an inkling there could only be two deeds going on in the bathing room where that man and woman were-
Either someone was about to get lucky, or...
not so lucky.


A moment later, there was a scream, and suddenly the door to the bathing room collapsed, the dark bearded man stumbling backwards over it as Ellarrah stood there, wearing naught but a towel and pissed as ever with fists ready, and an evident slash across her cheek with a fresh trail of blood.

"YOU PERVERTED BASTARD!" she screamed, lunging after him.  "As if I were after your gold, you ignorant bastard!" and she took another swing, sendign the man crashing onto the card table.  Clenching her hands into fists, Ellarrah stood in the center of the room, fuming mad.

"Does anyone else want a taste of my fists!?" she taunted.  "Because if you got a problem with me, then I'll put a problem in your face!"

"That's a shame. Serendipity is a beautiful place," Jazbel replied when the woman mentioned that she had never been outside the kingdom. He arched a brow when she mentioned she kept her brother's sword as a memento.
So he's dead, he thought, sympathetically.
That's a pity.

Jazbel shook his head when she asked where the Hallow was. Wasn't she  a native of this kingdom, or not?
"Hardly," he said.
"I meant the Matron's Hallow, the city across the kingdom."
He raised his eyebrows in surprise.
"As one as well traveled as you, m'lady, you've never been there?"
It was one of the most tolerable places in Connloath, or, at least, to Jazbel it was. He certainly liked it more than Reajh. The capitol was beautiful, to be sure, but it was so... stiff. The man could never quite shake off the feeling that if he sneezed in the area, he'd be arrested. Beheaded if he belched. Jazbel wasn't so keep on the guards in the city, either. It didn't help that years ago he had been arrested and accused of magecraft because of an unfortunate incident with a costume that was much too well done for Jazbel's own good. It took him hours to explain what he had done and why it was not magic.

To his disappointment, the woman was summoned to take a bath. Several men around the table chuckled, most smiling wickedly. Jazbel kept a straight face during the whole thing, though he noticed that the dark haired man made a gesture towards Rednet. Jazbel frowned at that. This was there doing, though what they had in mind for the girl and why, he had no idea.
None of my business, he thought, his expression hardening.
He was here for information only. Not to be bothered with the affairs of the charismatic redhead. Besides, she looked like she could handle herself.
Hopefully.

Jazbel casually continued his game, trying to ask more questions, slyly. What bars were they attending? What part of town did they prefer? What shops? Some questions the men were fine with asking. They were seemingly harmless, though Rednet was growing more and more wary of the stranger's curiosity and his loose tongue. However, Jazbel was slowly getting the answer he wanted- they were heading towards the southwestern region of the city, where a couple of known rebellious nobles lived. Just as the man was about to ask another question, Rednet abruptly stood up.
"I've had enough!" she barked.

Just then, the blonde, short man reached up to grab Jazbel's neck. It all happened so quickly that Jazbel did not have time to react. With one hand still clutching his wine bottle, Jazbel tried to prevent the man from chocking him.
"E-asy," he gasped out.
"Who are you?" the woman spat.
Before Jazbel could reply,  a scream rang out before Ellarrah stormed out into the room. The mercenaries' attention were off Jazbel to gawk at the indignant woman.
Jazbel smiled.
Bless you, lass, he thought.
Using their shock as his moment to escape, the man brought down the wine bottle as hard as he could on the blonde man's head. It knocked the man clean out.

"Help, please!" the man cried out as he grabbed a chair  and unsheathed to defend himself as the men closing in on him started to draw their swords.

OOC: It's funny he called her on her ignorance! It's always fun when she gets drunk and says the wrong thing~


IC:

It was definitely an extraordinary scene when Ellarrah found herself braced against Jazbel, both of them back to back and surrounded by angry men with swords.

"Now we see your true colors!" Ellarrah spat as she glared at the men with weapons, while she was only guarded by a slim, towel wrapped around her body.  Was it really too much to ask for her to get a bath?
"I shoulda known it was too good to be true that any cut-throat looking men like you would 'ave offered a lady any sort of respect. And now you've all got your blades drawn to put us up to slaughter."

Then she turned at the noise Jazbel was making behind her.
"Help me?" she repeated, scoffing at his remark. "Some man you are! Aren't you supposed to be protecting the lady?" though she didn't have another second to add to her smart remarks when a man came at them, swinging as she jumped away, bumping her back against Jazbel as she let out a frustrated hell.
"Bugger off ye god damn, schemin' bastards! I already told ya I ain't after none of yer stinkin' treasure," but the men hardly paid her any attention as they continued to swing angry swords in their direction.

Ellarrah was dancing precariously about, both unarmed and scrambling to keep her towel on.
"Hey- watch where you're swinging those things!" she commented, gripping onto her towel, but when a man made a lewd comment about it-

"Perhaps we ought to all have fun with her first, BEFORE we cut them to ribbons!"

That's what REALLY pissed Ellarrah off.

"Ok, that's enough. No more Miss Nice Ellarrah!" she seethed, tossing back her hair and tightening her towel. SHe only hoped it would stay put as she angrily picked up a near by chair, and swung. It connected with a sword aiming for her head, and got trapped within the rungs beneath as seh twisted the chair and de-armed the man, and procured herself a sword.

Now holding the chair as her shield and sword at the ready, she warded off a few men before finding herself bumping up against Jazbel once more.

"ANd what are *you* gonna do about all of this? Stay there and whimper and do nothin' while the woman does all the work?" she spat.  "Come on and pick up a chair and start swinging! Any weapon is better than no weapon!"


OOC: That's right, Ellarrah fights with chairs! She's one tough chica! :3
.. while wearing nothing but a bath towel, lol.

Jazbel tsked at Ellarrah's comment. It hurt his pride, it did.
"I'm a  musician, not a knight!" he bellowed before getting punched straight in the jaw and then in the gut. Jazbel dropped his chair as he fell to the floor, rubbing his sore jaw.
An old one at that, he thought with a groan, a matellic taste filling his mouth. Was that blood? He hand't been in a brawl for years. Before the man could stab him, however, Jazbel managed to grab his hand and kick him hard in the shins. This gave the musician spy enough time to grab the broken chair and whack him outside the head with it.

Jazbel panted as he got to his feet, adrenaline rushing through his body. His ears perked up at the mention of treasure.
"Ah-h, so you're a thief," he exclaimed as he stood back to back with the lady. Jazbel grinned smugly at that. He figured there was something refreshingly dishonest about that woman.
Other than prancing around in a towel, he thought.
With a woman like that by his side, it honestly wasn't the worst way to.
Still, Jazbel didn't want to 'go' just yet.

His eyes quickly darted across the room.
Where was Rednet?
He was distracted when, out of the corner of his eye, Jazbel saw something flash in the light. He had the good sense to duck out of the way; the dagger tore at his sleeve, cutting across his rght biicept. The man hissed as he held his knives and chair, defensively.
"I'm trying," he growled as she scowled him.

The man had been in many a fight over the years, but the truth was that he never killed anybody. That wasn't his thing. But there were still some moves he did know... As the man came
Jazbel kicked him in the                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           privates before smashing his makeshift shield into his  face. Jazbel nodded smartly as he quickly grabbed the man's shealthed sword, handing it over towards the young woman.
"Here, you look like you know how to handle 'em," he said as he shoved it into her arms, for once the innuendo unintentional.

Just then another sword was held at his neck.
"Don't move," Rednet said, acidly.

"Whadya mean don't move!?" Ellarrah fumed, her sword pointed towards Asven, her chair still held like a shield. "How about you drop your sword, love, and I won't bash you over the pretty head with my chair." Ellarrah was really trying her luck (and poor Jazbel;s...) 
"And I think you all owe me an apology! Aiming to maim me in the bathing house. You've got some fuckin' balls!"

But then again.. so did Ellarrah, and she wasn't exactly in a position to be giving out demands as she felt a prick at the back of her neck.
"Oh, now what?" she said, hearing the lame snickering of one of Rednet's henchmen's and didn't waste another second before kicking back her leg suddenly, managing a strike to the man's balls.
A grunt was heard..

The man went down, and when he hit the ground, his crossbow went off and shot intot he air.
Ellarrah gave a cry as it flung over her head, cutting into the chandelier above as it began to crash towards the ground over Asven and Jazbel.

"Oh my god, watch out!"s he cried, diving into Jazbel and tackling him out of the way as the chandelier crashed behind them.
A curse could be heard as her towel slipped downwards, but a quick motion remedied that as she looked over at Jazbel.

"Hey, you alright?" she asked more gently than her usual tongue, her hand gripping tight to the towel that threatened to fall off again.

Jazbel flinched at Ellarrah's bravado.
There's a time and place for everything, m'dear, he dryly thought as he observed Asven's pouch.
"Miss Ellarrah," Jazbel muttered through gritted teeth as he held his neck as far back as he could from the cold kiss of the iron.
"Allow me to suggest to not do anything rash."

But since when did the youth listen to the advice of the old?
Or so Jazbel felt it was so. The next few moments happened in a blur. One of Asven's lackley's bow went out of  control and somehow managed to break the chandelier. The man gasped as Ellarrah tackled  him out of the way. The man let out an audiable gasp of pain as he landed on his back. There were going to be bruises there in the morning.
"I'll live," he replied gruffly, taking a half second to admire her body pressed against his.

The man took in a breath as he gently patted her shoulder, cuing her to get off of him as he glanced over towards Asven. She was in a sore mood; the woman had managed to get out of the way, too, but not without taking a few hits. Her left leg had multiple scratches on it, bleeding profusely. The sack had been torn from her side, though Asven was in too much pain and too enraged to notice. She picked up one of the sharp crystals and threw it towards the two.
"Move, love," Jazbel grunted as he roughly pushed Ellarrah aside.
He curled up and howled as it dug into his shoulder.
The musician whimpered as he yanked it out, though he forced himself to get to his feet. The other lackeys seemed dazed by the confusion.
Jazbel gestured for Ellarrah to get up, his eyes on the puzzle.

"Come on," he urged.
Let's get out of here while we still can.

Ellarrah made a noise as she was unceremoniously tossed aside, her towel unraveling on the way over as she cursed a few times and scrambled back into it.  SHe'd have to be sure to get her clothes, or at least some pair of clothes if she lived through this!

She too, also noticed the baggage being discarded, and being poor (well, down right broke) and also a bit vengeful, she plotted a way to snag it.

And she thought of something alright, as she suddenly got to her feet and dashed behind Asven while the woman was distracted with Jazbel.
She whistled to one of the men, as he rushed her.
"Yoo hoo!" she said with a wriggling hello of her fingers, then as the man was nearly upon her, she opened her towel and the man dropped dead in his tracks.  She used his own sudden halted momentum to dive forward (well, after closing her towel in the process) and tackled him low, so that he catapulted over her shoulder and crashed right into Rednet.

Glancing over her shoulder, she gave a rather smug grin as she snatched up the abandoned 'loot' (the very thing Jazbel happened to be eyeing) and dashed out the door.

"Come on, love," she told Jazbel as she headed towards the door.  "You and I need to make good use of that door!"

Jazbel highly disliked the possibility of fighting a woman. Despite Asven's structure, her ability, and her clear intent to  murder him,  he  refused to do it. It wouldn't be fair. The man ignored the fact that he was currently being aided by the fairer sex. That was a different matter entirely and on Asven's conscious, not his. However, as Asven slowly began to straggle to her feet, Jazbel's fingers tightened around his dagger. He gritted his teeth, uncertain. Like it or not, it didn't look like he had a choice. Just then, Ellarrah cooed.
"Huh?" Jazbel  muttered as he turned his head around to see what was going on.
Ellarrah was in the process of just folding her towel back around her body. Jazbel's eyes widened in shock, but it quickly gave way to a smirk.

I like this girl, he decided as he watched her tackle a man to the ground.
Another thug grabbed at Jazbel's collar, but the man was ready this time. He turned around to slash at the man, giving the thug a clear and long cut on his arm. The man stumbled a little bit backwards in pain before revealing himself, but Jazbel just calmly held his daggers ready.
"Attack me, and I'll kill you," he calmly said, meaning every word of it.

This surprised his opponent; he hadn't expected such a carefree older man to say something like this. Furthermore, his companions and boss were wounded.  Out of the corner of his eye, Jazbel saw Ellarrah dash for the door.
Time to leave, he thought, walking backwards so that the man wouldn't try to attack him from behind. He started to chuckle at Ellarrah's use of the pet name, but that smile was wiped off his face when he couldn't locate the puzzle on the ground. Where'd it go?
His face blanched when he looked up at Ellarrah.
Shit, he thought, but he had no time to worry about that now.
He nodded and dashed for the door, grabbing her hand.

"Come!" he ordered as he lead her down a narrow path that cut through buildings. They couldn't very well run in the main roads, not with her dressed like this!

"What?" Ellarrah said, nearly tripping over her own two feet.  She watched as Jazbel dashed down an alley way.  "An here I thought I'd be leading," she said, dashing right behind him in hot pursuit.  "And don't run too fast!" she called after him. "I know we're running for our life but my, uh!" she gasped and clung to her towel that had almost dropped away from her boobs and scrambled to pull it back up.  "But at least let me keep my modesty as we run!" she yammered.  It was then she heard the men behind them and cursed.

"Bloody hell." and ti was then she realized they had also come to a dead end. "Aw, Ansgar's beard, what the hell is this!?" She approached it, and hit her fists off of it. "A dead end!? No way!" she said, growling as her heart was pounding inside her chest as she looked around, then noticed a nearby building and looked down at the pouch she was carrying. The building looked old enough-

"Time to make ourselves disappear,"she said, and threw the puzzle at the window.  The window shattered,a nd she shielded herself, from any repercussions straying from the glass before giving a smirk.

"And there we have our exit," though she paused after taking a step adn gasped.
"Oh, for Ansgar's sake," she said, seething in pain as she held her bloody foot. "I didn't think this through clearly enough. Ugh, I can't walk through all that broken glass!" she whined.

"Do you know where to go?" Jazbel asked as they entered the allyway.
"I'm open to ideas..."
He slowed his pace when she asked him to, but only a little. He didn't know when those men would be on their tails. Jazbel began to pant. He hadn't had a good run like this in a while, and though he was used to walking many miles, he wasn't a sprinter. The fright from the bar had taken the breath from him. His heart fell at the sight of a dead end. His eyes turned towards Ellarrah, who  hit the wall in frustration. However, not everything was lost; the man watched out of the corner of her eye as she examined the building. His attention was mainly concerned with the men that were just entering the allyway. Jazbel clutched to his daggers.
"Lass," he said through gritted teeth, "Whatever you have planned-"

He jumped in alarm as she broke a window.  Jazbel was momentarily confused- there weren't any rocks around, not as he could see. He quickly scrambled inside the building  after her, when he noticed the puzzle on the ground. Shocked, he quickly bent over to pick it up.
"You threw this?!" he asked Ellarrah. "Do you have any idea...?!"
The shouts were growing louder. Jazbel scowled as he shoved the puzzle into his pocket. Ellarrah wasn't going to get very far in her condition.
"Allow me," he said with a grunt as he bent over and grabbed her by the arm and leg. He hoisted her up over his shoulder. The man was growing older, but due to his constant travelling and having to carry his own baggage across the kingdoms, he was used to carrying a load.
She's light, he thought, content as he ran through a long hall way.

Just as he was about to run through, he noticed an old opened door on the floor. Jazbel quickly glanced over his shoulder. It sounded like the men were dealing with the glass window. Quickly, the man approached the door, observing the cellar. It wasn''t deeper than three feet, a small place to keep food chilled.
It would be cramped, Jazbel thought, but it was better than nothing.
The man quickly lowered the woman into it before quickly following suit, shutting the door as silently as possible.

In the dark he listened as the loud and angry men  past them.

"Hey- what are you-" Ellarrah was cut off on her sentence the moment she was thrown over Jazbel's shoulders. "Hey!" she lightly beat on him. "You're gonna make me lose my only towel, you know!" she said frustratedly, as she clung to him, her towel, becoming, not to clingy as she used her other hand to attempt to hold it, and before she knew what was going on- she was placed inside a cellar.

"hey- do you honestly think is gonna-" but before her louds words were finished coming out of her mouth, Jazbel climbed into the cramped area beside her.  Ellarrah tried to move out of the way to give him space, but they were bumping shoulders from where they were crouched.

She gritted her teeth, not liking this.

"Jazbel," she said through her teeth, unable to make them unclenched. "How long do we have to stay in here?" she hissed softly, though paused to hold her breath as she heard the men walking above them. "Shit." she then slapped a hand over her mouth, hoping the men didn't hear her as they simply walked away.
Her eyes then went over towards Jazbel,a nd that's when she realzied her towel was no longer on her.

She made a short noise and scrambled in the darkness, her elbow accidently connecting with Jazbel's face as she tried to secure her towel.

"For Ansgar's sake," she hissed, after the men above them had gone. "Did you hafta choose such a confining hiding spot?" she made another face."I hate confined spaces." She admitted. "We need to get out of here quickly before I go mad!" and.. before she would lose her towel, which was now positively filthy, as was she, after struggling inside the shallow cellar.
And that's hwen she noticed a spider dangling beside her and made a noise, ramming her entire back side against Jazebl as she tried to escape.

"Ew, ohmygod, a spider!" she said, pawing at her shoulder and hair. "Ah! and it's sticky web is all over me!" and that's when she noticed. "Gods, the filth in this place!" she turned to Jazbel, who's lap she was now sitting in and begged. "Can we get outta this cellar now? I'm freaking out in here! I think the men are gone!"

Jazbel quickly placed a hand over the girl's mouth as she began to speak. Though he couldn't see her, it was that dark, he could feel her skin brushed against his, her breath hot.
Not now! He thought in a panic, as his ears listened to the noise.  This wasn't the time to be picky about location. The man sat rigidly in place, not moving an inch or even breathing until the noise finally disappeared. Once he was certain they were gone, he removed his hand with a sigh.
The man tugged at his collar. With the two of them combined in the cellar, it was blazing. Ellarrah's whining didn't help matters, either.

Lovely, he thought as he fumbled with the door.
"Relax, m'dear. Stay put," he replied in a strained voice in an attempt to keep them both calm as Ellarrah began to figit and panic. He gently placed a hand on her shoulder. (At least, what he thought was her shoulder, it was hard to tell.) This night had been stressful for the both of them, and the mention of spiders weren't making it any better. The man dug his knife into what he hoped was a crack in the wood as he pushed the door up with all of his strength. The man grunted as it hinged open,  stray beams of moonlight pouring in, once again.
With a sigh of relief, Jazbel quickly scrambled out of the cellar.

He smiled as he turned to face the woman.
"That wasn't so- oh."
He smirked as he turned around to allow Ellarrah some privacy. Ellarrah was a mess, with her towel and hair disarranged and her utterly indignant expression. In an odd way, it was quite fetching, but he of course didn't dare to point this out to her. Quietly, the man undid his cloak.
"How are your feet?" he asked as he bent over to drape his cloak over her shoulders.

"They'd be better if they weren't all cut up and full of glass that's prolly infected with spider grime," she griped.  She gave a huff, unable to stand properly as the soles of her beat were still being bitten and bleeding from glass.  She was dancing over her feet, wincing slightly at all the pain when his cloak came over her shoulders.
She eyed him warily, but did her best to manage balance the cloak and her towel as she took a seat on a nearby barrel.

"God damn glass," she seethed, working at picking out the glass shards from her feet, giving a cry, grunt and swear eat time she did.  "Gods almighty, I'm going to need some decent ale after this is done." then she paused and gave a smile through a grunt. "And perhaps some sort of shoe and clothes for that matter." But then another soggy expression phased over her as she realized the condition of her body and hair. Shivering, she shook her head.
"And another bath."

That's when a tiny, crawling spider began to nimbly climb down upon a slim thread before her eyes. Although the creature was small, Ellarrah loathedspiders and gave a cry as she leapt from her feet, crashing into Jazbel as she swatted at her hair.
"Ew, ohmygod, another spider!" and flailed her arms more rapidly, then began to scratched her hands furiously through her hair, tossing her wild red locks about. "I hope there ain't any more in my hair!" she fussed, when her towel fell to the floor, crumpling at her feet.

With a gasp, she hugged the cloak shut and grabbed onto Jazbel's arm, nearly pinching it.

"Gods, I'm going to need ten buckets of ale to get through this day!"

OOC: sorry for this being short, but i gotta wake up in the morning ><
IC:

Exhausted and still cautious about the men who were hunting for them, Jazbel more or less tuned Ellarrah out of his head as he took the time to think. He wasn't actually keeping a room in the inn they had caused a fight in. No, his was  a couple of streets down, in a medium sized inn, mainly foor families. It wasn't too far of a journey; he could take Ellarrah there. The man glanced over towards the woman. She was several inches shorter than he, but he figured she would be able to fill out his clothes, especially the womanly ones.

She snapped him back into attention as she clenched his arm.
"Ouch," he muttered, examining her hair. He couldn't find anything.
Jazbel gave a dry grin at her comment about buckets of ale.
"Aye, we can treat ourselves soon," he agreed. "I've a room not too far from here, if you'd care to join me. I've some clothes that you might find suitable, as well, I think. "
In any case, she wasn't in any condition to walk there. The man frowned at the blood on the ground.
"Allow me..."
The man bent over to carry the woman, this time sweeping an arm underneath her legs with another supporting her back.
Like a knight with his lady love, he thought with a cheeky grin as he began to make his way out of the building.
Jazbel was pleased he was still capable of doing this.

"Unfortunately I don't got any money for an Inn or ale," she griped and before she knew it,s he was swept into his arms.
"Hey now, watch what your hands are fondling now," she remarked, noticing his cheeky grin.  "And don't be enjoyin' this much. If my feet were bleedin' an' on fire, I'd be-" then she noticed the cloak starting to work it's way open as she gasped and clenched it shut with a fist. "Oh, piss on me, Ansgar," she grumbled.  "At least oneof us looks happy,"s he quipped at the man's grin again and sighed.

"Some clothes would be nice, but are you sure your type of clothes would fit on me?" She peered up at him questionably. "I mean, look at this, cloak-" though if he looked she growled and would push his face away. "Don't look too close at this cloak, you pervert," she she, blushing and clutching the cloak even tighter. "This cloak seems a bit, big, doesn't it? Though, it sure beats rompin' around in a towel," she siad, and smiled silently at the thought. "THough it was kind of ridiculous." SHe sighed, irritably. "Men!" If a man didn't want a piece of her ass, and throat she wouldn't be in this predicament to begin with.

"So that inn room of yours got a bath tub or something?" She peered up at him again. "I woulda been cleaned had someone not shoved me in a cellar with him." She stuck her chin out slightly, expecting an answer.


OOC: Short posts happen :P no worry, and so does bed time, ha, ha. Me? I'm still awake, trying to get my house clean >.> the endless struggle!

Jazbel did look, but he wasn't surprised to find his face roughly shoved away. He figured.
The nodded at Ellarrah's question about the clothes. Yes, he was more or less certain. The man took in a deep breath as he readjusted her weight in his arms. The lad was a lively and fiesty one, that was for sure.
And maybe this is taking a bigger toll on me than I had thought, he mused as he broke into a sweat.
"Be glad it's too big and not too small," he pointed out.

"Be glad you're covered in dirt and not in your own blood and guts," he said, rolling his eyes about her complaint about cleanilness. And again with the whining! Jazbel could only take so much. Didn't she know how to say "thank you?" Her tongue was a clever beast, but an awfully vain one.
Women, he grumbled in his mind.

---

A lantern hung in front of the inn, as if protecting the building with its light. Jazbel was eager to go inside. The rain fell cold and hard, and the inside felt warm. From outside, Jazbel could hear a merry tune being played, and people laughing and talking. Jazbel calmly opened the door and quietly walked through the hall, making as little as a scene as possible. Of course, people stared, now and then, but the man ignored them. There was nothing wrong or queer about aiding an injured woman, after all. He walked towards the back of the inn, where the his room was.
"I have to unlock the door, Ms. Ellarrah," he said as he gently placed the woman back on the ground to her feet.

The room wwas simply furnished in the inside, with a bed, table, chairs, and a water pitcher and basin.  Jazbel's bag of possesions sat neatly in the chair, while his instruments laid spewed on a table. He gestured for Ellarrah to walk in before taking the time to stretch out his sore arms and back.
"No baths in here, I'm afraid, but the inn has a bathing room," he said. "But clothes first."
The man walked over towards his bag and rummaged through it before pulling out a simple, but pretty  blue dress, one a Serendian maiden might wear.
"This should fit you," he said, approvingly as he laid it on the bed.
He realized that her pride as a Connloathian might prevent her from wanting to wear such a garment, but Jazbel figured that now wasn't the best of times to be picky. Of course, she had proved him wrong, before.

Ellarrah looked around the room and made some grumblings about a bathing room.
"Maybe I'll just deal with the cobwebs in my hair," she griped, then watched him interestedly when he went about fetching some clothes. She was, however, surprised to see him pull out a dress.  Wrinkling her face, she exclaimed, "Angsar's beard," She looked at it. "You expect me to wear a dress? What am I, getting married or somethin'?" Though she scratched her head at it and poked at the blue piece of fabric.  "Though I guess beggers can't be choosers. And at least it'll cover more than your cloak." she said with a smirk and looked over at Jazbel. "I guess it'll have to do."  She went to move to undo the cloak, but paused a moment before she turned to Jazbel and cleared her throat.

"You mind givin' a woman some privacy to dress?" she cocked one brow at him warily. 

OOC: Ugh, sorry for the shortness of the post D: I'll try to post more in my next one~

Jazbel scoffed at her indignation at the dress. As he figured, the lady wasn't much appealed by the notion of wearing a dress. A pity really; he personally thought most ladies looked better in skirts then in britches. The man chuckled at her notion of getting married. It amused him to watch her examine the thing, as if the dress was somehow going to consume her. Finally ,though, common sense seemed to knock into her as she agreed to slip the thing on.
I'll take that as a thank you, Jazbel thought.
"I'll suppose it will," he agreed.

Jazbel scowled at Ellarrah's suspicion.
"Of course," he replied, feigning shock that she would suggest anything but.
"It would be rude not to..."
Jazbel's eyes sweeped across the room as he left before he closed the door behind him. He made it a point to examine things when she wasn't looking. The lady was a thief, after all- he didn't trust her.
"Tell me when you're done, m'dear," he called out as he reached a hand into his pocket to pull out the puzzle. Nobody was around, it was safe to check.  His finger brushed the pattern on its surface.
Such a troublesome little thing.
He knew better than to play with it, but the item was such a marvel, he couldn't resist examining the treasure.

Jazbel envisioned what Noki's surprise would be once he returned it to her. That would get him handsomely paid, more than anything. Jazbel smiled broadly at the prospect.

"Don't worry, I'll let you know when I'm decent, love," she called after him with a roll of her eyes. He didn't need to check the area, though he was smart to. She wouldn't have considered looking around and nosing about into his property until she realized he was going through the notions that she would.  She scoffed at the idea and poked around a bit, slipping off the cloak and slipping on the dress.

After smoothing it down, she pulled her hair out and fluffed it around the dress then stood before a dingy mirror and stared at herself for a moment.
"I look like a damn Serendian waif," she commented, but  inwardly admired the fact she looked a bit more... feminine in the damn thing, maybe even pretty.  She fussed over the skirts a bit, even pressed her breasts together to see how the girls would do, and sighed, adjusted the dress some more so it at least showed some cleavage. Sadly, Ellarrah only ever knew the simpler methods to get a man's attention.  Sweet talking, after all, was never her specialty.


"I think I'm decent enough now," she spoke, after having approached the door and opened it.  "And thanks for making me look like some strange foreign woman, now get in here before we're seen!" she gestured to him, grabbing him by the wrists and pulling him lightly to force him to get a move on it.

Ellarrah was never the patient type.  It was then she noticed the puzzle box as she stepped back into the room, folding her arms upon her chest as she took a seat upon my bed.
"You also need to explain to me about that little trinket you're holding," she said with a cat like grin.  "Please don't tell me something like that was what they were trying to cut my neck over.  The things looks old and rusted."

Well, now, there was a sight! Jazbel stood at the door frame, admiring the effect. Blue was fetching on the woman, he was pleased to admit. Plus, he was pleased to see that he had been right. The dress was only a bit too long, maybe, for its hem hit the floor, but since her body was much more shapely than his, it snugged at certain areas  and fit her frame just fine.
"No problem," he teased when she accused him of making her look Serendian.
There was nothing wrong in that. The dress almost gave the illusion of her being a proper lady... but the scowl on her face and her disordely hair broke that illusion. The man grunted as she tugged at his arm.
"Yes, ma'am," he muttered when she insisted they stayed inside the room. 

He leaned against a wall.
"Oh," he muttered as Ellarrah eyed the puzzle from the bed.
Of course she would be curious about that. Still, it wasn't his place to disclose all the information.
Not that I know everything, anyways.
"No, no.  Don't be silly," he replied.  "They were trying to kill you because they trying to kill me. You were in the wrong place at the wrong time, was  all."
He smirked as he placed the puzzle away.
"Though I suppose hurting one of their men naked didn't help matters, either."

Jazbel frowned as he looked down at her bare feet.
"How are they?" he asked.

"So they were after you then? You who can't even handle a sword?"  She had a hard time believing that.  "And they'd think that I'd associate with the sort?" She made a distasteful face, but smirked soon afterwards.  "You'd think they'd believe a classy lady such as myself, would never be interested in partnering up with such a rascal." She stared down at her finger nails idly, that same, playful smirk on her face as she jested at him, but then she frowned at all of the dirt that stained under them.

It was then he asked about her feet and she sighed, looking down at them.
"I think I'll live, but it'll be a bitch to walk on 'em, that's for sure." Sighing, she collapsed onto her backside on the bed and stared up at the ceiling.  "So what are we going to do now?" she asked, not realizing how unladylike her position on the bed really was- after all, she wasn't used to wearing a dress and had no idea the responsibilities it entailed.

"Do you think those men won't think to look for us here?" she paused, idly examining the ceiling.  "Unless you're a clever enough man at hiding your tracks," She said thoughtfully as she rolled onto her side as she layed stretched out upon the bed, an elbow resting into it while that fist rested just beneath her chin to support her head as she looked at him, the other hand hanging loose across her legs.

"If they never find us, we could just haul up here for a while for a bit 'o fun and drink," she suggested, growing thirsty over the idea.  "I think ale might make me forget all about the stupid glass that cut up my feet."

Jazbel grunted at Elllarrah's jest. He was old and wise enough not to get riled up by her jest. Besides, there was some truth in it; he didn't know how to use a sword. Why did he? His music and words were all the weapons he needed, most days.
Daggers the rest.
The man tried not to chuckle at the 'classy lady' statement. Classy ladies did not sprawl themselves upon beds the way Ellarrah did.

Jazbel shrugged at her questions.
"They won't find us here," he reassured her, though he couldn't garantee it.
There were plenty of inns and taverns in the city, and those men probably wouldn't look in half of them, thinking that Jazbel and Ellarrah were still on the streets. Besides, their inn was close enough to the other one to be considered an unlikely resting point. Though Jazbel knew that they had left little to no tracks- the roads here were smooth and hardly left any prints, plus the rain would have taken care of the rest- there still was the possibility that the men would come check. And who would be more suspicious than a middle aged old man carrying a woman in a cloak? 

He smiled at her idea for 'a bit o' fun and drink.' A little sport, he figured, would do him well,  and the idea was most appealing. Still, first things first. The man gestured for the woman to sit back down.
"You're not going anywhere like that, quite yet," he scolded her, rummaging through his travelling pack. He pulled out some bandages, a rag, and poured some water from the pitcher into the bowl. He carried it over towards the bed side, and sat on the floor.
"Let's take care of your feet first," he said as he reached for her left foot.

Ellarrah sighed.
"Fine, but I want ale next." she said with a grin, moving closer towards the edge of the bed, offering him one of her 'dainty' feet.

"So you a doctor as well?" she asked, but her mannerism was that of a flirt as she looked down at him, admiring the fact a man was looking after her.  After all, it had been sometime, (if ever) she had ever had some nice attention for a change.  "And be gentle with them, I'll be needing these feet when we have to make our get away. And also," she added with a wider grin. "To help walk me down to get the ale, unless that is," she smirked again, a hand resting under her chin. "You wish to carry me down to the pub like a blushing bride."

"Agreed," Jazbel said when Ellarrah demanded ale, next.
The man shook his head at her question at him being a doctor, smirking at her commentary.
"Oh, aye?" he said in a teasing tone. "You don't look much like a blushing bride. More like a vexed shrew..."
Jazbel was as gentle as he could, washing the cuts before wrapping up her feet.
Why am I doing this? he thought.
The man realized he could have just ditched the lass and go his own way. Giving her his cloak was kindness enough, and the woman knew how to defend herself. Why the extra baggage?
My soft spot for women in need will kill me one day, he thought as he secured the bandages around her left foot.  He reached for her right, and started the process all over again.

A few moments later, he was done. He rose to his feet and wiped his hands.
"Let's go," he said as he grabbed his shawm and stuffed it into his pocket, just in case he needed to play to earn a few extra coins for drink.

---

"Two ales please!" he asked the innkeeper.
Jazbel turned towards Ellarrah, paused, and changed his mind.
"Make that four."

"Thanks, love," she told him, smirking quite widely as she patted him upon the shoulder. "And I'll have to pay you back someday for your kindness... and the ale." (among other things..)
"Let's go have that drink!"

Following him to where the innkeep was, she kept close to Jazbel, excitedly anticipating her drink. When Jazbel changed their order, her cheeks flushed as she kissed him light upon the cheek. "Looks like we got a learned one!"s hes aid, taking both the first rounds of ale for herself as she moved off to the corner where a small, square table had two boxes for chairs.  She pushed one open with her foot, gritting at bit as she had almost forgotten the condition of her feet and looked down at them with a pout.

"Oh, bugger," she grimaced, taking a seat and plopping her wrapped foot onto her lap. Some blood was seeping, but not a lot. "You did some fancy work here with the bandages, I'll give you that." she told Jazbel, raising her glass to him in honor as she grinned and took a long, delicious swig of her drink, not caring as some dribbled down her chin. When the beer was nearly gone, she chinked the glass onto the table and gasped happily, then wiped at her mouth and licked at her ale-stickied fingers.

"Let's get bloody hammered tonight and forget all about all worries, what say you?" she asked him excitedly, hoping to find a nice buddy to get drunk with.  "I could drink a whole boat load of this stuff." She started into her second drink.  "The dizzy rush never gets old." she said with a giggle.  "It also adds to some of the satisfaction of having some handsome company for a change. So where did you say you were from again and where are you going? You got a purpose in a little old town like this?" she said, leaning forward ontop of her box, two elbows resting upon the table and making her ample cleavage nearly burst out from the low neck line of her dress.

Jazbel followed her to the  table, and sat down across from her. He rubbed his lower back as he wolfed down half of his first round, all in one gulp. Practice made him a professional. His eyes scanned the crowd. Though it was a family-friendly sort of inn, not that many children were present, just some young infants clinging to their mothers. Pressed against the wall was a pair of eager lovers, though they were minded. Nobody seemed to notice, though. Two men were having an arm wrestling contest in the middle of the room, and a small crowd had gathered to watch. By the fire place were musicians, playing a frenzied tune. Jazbel couldn't help but to tap his foot to the beat, the notes playing in his head.

He chuckled at Ellarrah's compliment and touch glasses with her.
"Thank you  very much," he said, wiping the excess ale from his chin with his sleeve.
He smiled broadly at her suggestion to get hammered. No, he'd have to pass on that. Drunk he'd get, aye, but he needed some of his wits around. He had the puzzle to protect, after all. Better to keep an eye on it. And her, too, the little minx. His smile grew as she flirted, interviewing him.
"Handsome company?" he said with a laugh as he ran a hand through thinning purple hair.
"Aye, I'm quite ravishing, if I do say so myself."

"Matron's Hallow. I said I was going there," Jazbel said, though he purposefully did not mention his business, again. He perhaps had told her enough, already.
"What about, m'dear?" he smoothly asked as he took another swing of his beer, his eyes boldly falling to her cleavage before quickly going back up to her eyes again.
"You're not from around these parts either, aren't you?"

"Oh, that's right," she said, wrinkling her nose with glee at remembering. "Posh, I haven't been 'ere in a long while." she said, taking back another swig, her beer nearly empty.  "And of course I'm not from around these parts, I'm not from any parts." The stap on her dress fell down her shoulder, but she felt too lazy to fix it, so just let her company enjoy some more show of skin (not that he hadn't seen enough already!)

"So how about you and I have a little drinking contest, shall we?" Ellarrah perked up at her own idea, eyes beaming like a child's.  "We could get to know one another and get a good little buzz goin' on!" then she set her empty mug onto the table. "but first I'll need seconds!"  Seconds, because she forgot that's exactly what she had just finished.

Jazbel arched a brow at Ellarrah's statement.
Not from any parts?
"What do you mean by that?" he asked, curiously.
Was she born on the road, like he was?
Besides, that still didn't answer the question why was she in Reajh. For all he knew, she could be another spy of sorts. Though judging by her behavior, that was highly unlikely.

He waved his hands wildly at her suggestion.
"Oh, no, no, no, no, no," he said quickly as he started on his second one. "You know I can't."
No way was he going to be dragged into this, though Jazbel was awfully tempted to. The competition was appealing.
I shouldn't even be drinking to begin with, he thought with a smirk.
Too late for that.

OOC: I realized I never wrote what duchy she was from in her bio, lol. I guess I'll just pick one :P
and I might as well go with the one I made up for a few of my other characters~ lol

IC:

"Yeah, I just travel alot," Ellarrah informed. "Though if you want to know about the place I was born, it was in the duchy of Allar, though I haven't been there in a while. I just stick to the open roads these days."

Then at his formal rejection to her drinking contest she raised a brow at him.
"Oh come on, Jazzy, it'll be fun.  Just you, me, boozin' it up!" She held up her drink, which again, was empty then smirked at him.
"But if you don't want to join me, at least can you help fill up my cup here, love? And at least keep me some sort of company. I can't be making a buzz-headed fool of myself on my lonesome now, can I?"

She swished the empty cup before him again.
"And just a few more drinks with me couldn't hurt."s he added, inching forward on top of her crate, eye lashes fluttering at him as she pressed her breasts a little tighter together, all the more in helping to entice her victim into another round, or.. at least helping her with her next.

Jazbel nodded thoughtfully at Ellarrah's mention of her birthplace.
"I see," he muttered.
So she was a traveler by choice, or was forced to. Either way, that was unusual for a lone lady. He wondered if she had been travelling in solitude for the entirety of her journey.
"Oi!" he protested as she tried to get him to join her in 'boozin' it up'.
"I'm having fun as it is."

Yet he chuckled as she tried to temp him into at least filling her cup.  What sort of name was 'Jazzy'?  Though he liked it, in a funny way. A finger ran through his mustache as he watched her, deep in thought and yearning. Ellarrah's method of persuasion was rather... effective, in a sense. Jazbel was highly tempted to join her. Oh, he knew that it would be completely against his better judgement. The woman wasn't one to be trusted. Yet Ellarrah was fine company, and Jazbel... well, he had his weaknesses. The man sighed, defeated.
"Fine," he said, holding up a finger and tapping her nose, lightly.
"Just one. Just one," he warned as he went to the bar to get them another round.

Ellarrah made a cute little noise of elation.
"I knew you'd see things my way!" she called after him.  "And just one more round," she informed, then smirked and added. "Until I try tantalizing you for the next!"

When he had returned with more drinks, her eyes were wide and sparkling with diamonds.
"Ah, you're a good man!" she squealed, kissing him playfully upon the cheek before snatching her glass off of him in triumph as she took her seat and took a nice long drink of her ale.
"Ah, I could get lost in these bubble for hours," she said, hiccuping and wiping her lips on the back of her hand.  "Hey, Jazzy, why don't you try a sip of my ale?" she said playfully, hopping onto his lap as she chinked her glass playfully against his and raised her mug to his lips. "But maybe if you don't want to play a drinking game, we could play somethign else." She suggested, her eyes lingering away from him as she looked around the place, leaning off of his lap as she spotted...

"Oh! A dart board!" she said, getting to her feet. "We could play darts or something!" she was uneven on her feet as she tried to make her way over towards it with a giggle. "Come on, love. It'll be fun!"  and it was much better than remembering that she had nothign else better to do with her time thant o swindle Jazbel into a drink...

Jazbel couldn't help but to beam like a fool at Ellarrah's praise. The ale was getting to his head, and though he was pretty certain his head was still on his shoulders, the man felt giddier.
"Careful, don't want you drowning in them," he teased as he observed the  drunkard.
Despite her utter lack of grace, she was charming. The silly image of the woman getting lost in a sea of bubbles amused the man, greatly.
Perhaps not as sober as I imagined, he thought with little to no regrets.

The man arched a brow as the woman practically shoved her drink to his lips. Jazbel really saw no reason to drink hers- he bought it for her, after all- but he none the less took a polite tiny sip. A suggestive grin rose to his lips when she suggested to play something else.
"Well-" he started to say, when Ellarrah became distracted with something from across the iinn.
Sightly dazed, Jazbel watched as she stumbled towards the dart board. The man frowned, a little anxious.

Jazbel drowned the rest of his drink before standing up.
"Take it easy, now, miss," he said as he grabbed the woman by the waist.
It was a bit forward of him, perhaps too much so, but she had hopped into his lap earlier and was wearing his dress... It was all part of their 'disguise' for the inn, their little game.
Speaking of which, what does she want from me? he thought. She was growing more seductive by the minute (Jazbel didn't know if that was the ale or her or both) and though Jazbel didn't mind that in the slightest, there were still many unanswered questions.
"Are you sure you'll even be able to hit the board in the state you're in?" he teased.

"I'll be able to hit the board just fine! Just keeping bringing me ale and I can show you how good my aim is!" she said with a grin, wriggling a bit in his arms as she gave a laugh and slipped away.
"Now, come on now, Jazzy, it's time to have a little fun!" she said, picking up the darts and eyeing up the board.  "We could always play strip darts," she said with a smirk over her shoulder after him, then proceded to throw a dart at the board when she was only half listening, and half laughing and falling into Jazbel as she slipped backwards, the dart sailing across the room,..


then sinking into the wood beside the board.

"Ah, rubbish," she said with a laugh, then looked up at Jazbel with a grin, holding up a single dart for him. "I believe it's your turn, love. Let's see if you've got better aim than I do with all this bubbly in our head, eh?"


OOC: Someone's going to get hurt, lol.

Jazbel did not protest as the woman slipped out of his hands. Instead, he carefully tailed her towards the darts. He waved in embarresement as Ellarrah suggested such a crude game as 'strip darts'.
"Not in this company," he said between gritted teeth under the harsh stares of several stander bys and the loud laughter of others.
Watch what you're doing, he thought with a grimance as he watched the woman recklessly fling the dart. Jazbel flinched as it sunk into the wall by the board.
At this rate, she's going to kill somebody, he thought.

"You're too careless, " he scolded, though the smirk on his face contradicted his serious tone.
Jazbel took up a dart with a flurish as he balanced it between his fingers. The dare was a harmless one, so why not take it up? The man narrowed his eyes as he concentrated on the dart board.  He positioned himself as he prepared to throw the thing. If near by folk were amused by Ellarrah, they were even more so by Jazbel's antics.  The shot was going to be beautiful. He knew it, everybody else knew it. Here was a man who was going to show his worth.... !

At a near by table was a group of gamblers. A particular tall, broad shouldered, and man was losing a match. He was very angry, and very drunk. After losing the last of his money, he angerly stood up and began to stumble towards the bar....

"Watch and learn, m'lady," Jazbel said as with a flick of the wrist, he sent the dart flying....

... right into the other man's arm.

---

Jazbel grumbled as he collapsed into his side of the bed with a rag held against his nose.
Tonight had NOT been in his favor in the slightest.





OOC: You were saying? :P

"Awww, don't worry about it, Jazzy," Ellarrah comforted as she drunkenly sat beside him on the bed.  "We've been in worse tiffs before, eh?"  She patted him upon the shoulder.  "But just think, had that drunken idiot not've been in the way, you woulda had a perfect shot." She giggled, fingers tickling up his chest before she moved to stand and stretched her hands high above her head.
"But now it does put us in a bind, considerin' I wanted to have a little fun this evening," she said with a sigh, but then she felt something odd in her pocket and reached into it.

She had already forgotten she had pick-pocketed her own body, Jazbel and had the puzzle box stored away in her dress.

"Say, we still need to figure out what this thing is," Ellarrah stated, poking at it with a finger as she walked over, holding it against a light as she examined it's coppery surface and all of the recesses and grooves aligning it.

"It looks as if these pieces could be shifted," she stated, her fingers fining one alignment and with a click, her lips twitched into a small smile as she watched hte little metal ball move.
"Ah!" her eyes got all sparkly. "It moves!" She happily threw herself back onto the bed, lying on her back, red hair a mess around her as she continued to play with it.  "So it's some sort of puzzle box! Let's see if I can open it!" But after another click, the puzzle spat at her-
with a puff of powdery whiteness that sooted her face.

Ellarrah, whose eyes were currently closed, made a soured face before angrily tossing the ball across the room to where it hit off hte opposing wall.
"Ugh! Stupid puzzle ball!" and began to furiously wipe at her eye to get the stupid dust off of her face, ignoring the fact she was lifting up the ends of her dress to do so.


OOC: Your post still makes me laugh!
Oh, Jazzy <3

X3

"Mmfph," Jazbel sullenly replied as Ellarrah told him not to worry.
How could he not worry? His nose, for crying out loud! A broken nose would hinder some of his disguises. Plus, he was van about his looks; a broken nose wouldn't do.
I'll have to set it, he thought miserably though the man couldn't help but to crack a lustful smile as his companion's finger trailed on his chest. It was just too bad.
Now all I want is sleep.

The man sighed as he sat up, grimacing as he took away the rag and placed his fingertips at the top of his nose, pressing firmly. Jazbel grunted, but exhaled, bringing the bottom of his hands together as he began to adjust his nose. Instantly, his vision began to blur as pain shot throughout his body. Jazbel's breath became labored as he continued, staring intensely at the wall, as he had no mirror. The man was so deep in his concentration, that he did not notice Ellarrah's tinkering with the puzzle until she tossed it.

The man turned around, his eyes widening in horror at the sight of the puzzle.
Jazbel jumped to his feet, but immediately regretted it. His face turned purple, his expression turning dark.
"You stupid wretch! What. Have. You. Done?!" he hissed, livid.
He helped this woman escape, healed her wounds, and even borrowed her a dress! How dare she mess with things that weren't hers to play with?! Furious, Jazbel stumbled towards the puzzle box. He almost never lost his temper. However, he was tired, blood was spewing out of his nose. The night had been a disaster, and Ellarrah (whom he didn't know, not really) had carelessly abused the very item he was risking his life for.

Jazbel knelt on the ground and gently picked up the box. To his relief, Ellarrah's foolhardiness didn't damage the puzzle. The man's shoulders slumped with relief as he turned the thing around, examining it from every angle.
"You have to be careful with these things," he said sternly to Ellarrah, his glance almost apologetic.
"It's not yours to play with, nor is it mine."
Yet there was something alluring about the round puzzle. Every bit of logic  inside of Jazbel was telling him to leave the puzzle alone, to wrap it up and keep it safe. Yet despite this, his fingers caressed the symbols as he quietly turned panels.
Click.  Click. Click.

His body was possessed, it had to be. Jazbel didn't know the combination, as did Ellarrah. Yet they both had gotten bits of the gears to work. Jazbel gasped as it opened, his mind snapping back in order. No, this wasn't supposed to be happening! But as he tried to close it shut, the orb seemed to grow warmer. Not hot, but instead felt warm like a living being- Jazbel swore he could feel a pulse from within. It began to glow...

"Don't call me the wretch when that damn thing spat dust into am eyes!" Ellarrah snapped as she watched Jazbel dive after the damn thing. She made a face at his comment of being careful and she just waved it off. "I was playin' fair, until the damn thing decided it wanted to -" but she didn't finish her sentence as she watched him intently, his fingers moving across the puzzle.  "Say, you're pretty good at that but you might want to watch out. That thing spits."

But then when it began to glow, Ellarrah gave a yell.
"Oh my god, it has magics!" and before she knew it, her stupid fear of mages kicked in and she gave a yell, field-goal kicking the thing right out of Jazbel's hand as it went sailing through the air, then crashed out the window.

"God, I hate magical things!" Ellarrah said, gripping at her chest as he felt it tightening as she tried to calm herself down from hyper ventilating.   With an angry growl she shook her fist about, "And here we are, fiddling with it! What if we just got cursed!? Gads-balls!" she dropped onto the bed.  "Who would want to marry a cursed woman if that puzzle ball just spat a hundred years of bad luck onto my face!?"

Clearly, her life was in peril.


OOC: He's SO gonna want to kill her, ha ha.
She is an act first, think later kinda gal <3
also, a bit simple minded when dealing with magics, ah ha ha!

Before Jazbel could comprehend what was going on, Ellarrah snatched the puzzle right out of his hands. The man's mouth ran dry as he reached out for it, panicking.
"No!" he exclaimed. "What are you doing?! Do you want to get us both killed? Lass, if-"
But whatever protest he wanted to express, it was too late. Jazbel watched in utter hopelessness as the woman tossed the thing out the window.

He turned towards her with a pair of new eyes.
I hope you ARE cursed, Jazbel thought, darkly.
In place of the cunning and seductive lady was a mere girl, a vapid woman who couldn't think. He had never felt so infuriated in his entire life. How could anyone... how could she?! Jazbel's right hand curled into a fist. Oh, but if only she were a man!

He'd just about had it.
Jazbel pointed towards the window. He tried to speak, but words failed him.
"You're paying for that," he flatly said.
And then, Madam, you're leaving.
To hell with his dress. Taking the only key with him, Jazbel marched out of the room, and locked the woman inside. He didn't want her scampering off with his things.

The man ventured out into the cold and wet rain as he made his way towards the spot where Ellarrah had chunked the puzzle out. He found it in the mud, still glowing softly. Jazbel picked it up.   Mist began to flow out of it, just a little. Jazbel watched anxiously as some of it passed through him, though it seemingly had no effect.
Weird, Jazbel thought as he quickly concealed the thing in his shirt.
Just what was this thing?
He quickly and quietly made his way back inside the inn towards his room.
Jazbel didn't want to have to climb through the window; he didn't want to repeat Ellarrah's earlier mistake.

"What do you mean by that?" Ellarrah spat, and before she knew it...

"Hey!" she dashed after him, only to have the door slam in her face. She flinched, heard him lock the door and gasped. "Hey!" she tried the knob. "Hey!" She pounded on the door. "Unlock this door, Jazbel!" she shouted. "I hate confined spaces! You'd better get this thing unlocked or I swear to Ansgar you'll be regretting it!" she fumed.  But no matter what she did, the door would not open and she began to panic, thinking her bad luck had already began and began to yell again, pounding on the door. "Jazzy! Open up!"  But when he didn't come back, panic gripped her to the core, and suddenly-


BOOM


The door fell open and there stood Ellarrah, breathing heavily.

"You!" she took one look at Jazbel, realizing he was only a few feet away and stormed over the door and socked him hard across his face.
"Don't you ever lock me in there again!" Her hands were clenched into angry fists. "I hate confined spaces! I hate them!"

And it was then she noticed the stupid glowing puzzle in his shirt and growled, leaped after it and wrestled it from his clutches.
"All of this nonsense for a stupid ball!?" She growled at him, her face burning with anger and booze."I ought to smash it!" she said, rising the thing up above her head as if to throw it again.

The ball flashed once, it's light flicking over Ellarrah, and then turning her into a momentary silhouette of pure white...


then Ellarrah was gone....


The ball dropped to the ground, tinkering as it rolled to settle against Jaz's side.

OOC: dun dun dun!

With that punch, Jazbel howled in pained and collapsed against the wall, his vision dizzy. He barely could hear Ellarrah screeching at him. Something about being closed into spaces.  He wondered vaguely if that woman ever thought about anybody other than herself. He was already injured, for pity's sake. He moaned as she picked it up again, lunging forward with whatever energy he had in him. Jazbel was desperate. He could NOT let her ruin things for him!
"NO. Put that bloody thing down," he ordered sternly. "Just.. calm down, would you? For one moment?"

IT didn't seem as if Jazbel was going to get that moment. In her indignant fit, Ellarrah had vanished in a flash of light. Stunned, Jazbel warily glared at the ball, in silence. He backed up as far as he could against the wall. Truthfully, he was almost glad that Ellarrah was finally gone. She was blabbering too much in her drunkard state for his liking, and was a complete dolt, besides.  But, still... Puzzles vanishing people just wasn't natural! Just what sort of merchandise were they harboring, anyway?

Jazbel scowled. No, he was going to deliver to his client. It was Ellarrah's fault for getting all mixed up into this nonsense, her fault! The man turned his attention back to his nose and finished fixing it, shouting as he did so.  He could barely see past a foot in front of him, but the puzzle lingered in his vision. The man tried not to scowl, again. It hurt too much. Using his foot, he kicked it towards his hand. Damn that foolish woman, but he couldn't just... let this all slide.
"Blast it all," he cursed as he reached out for a puzzle.

Blinding white light surrounded him, and then  he, too, had disappeared, the puzzle rolling until it  hit the bed post.

At first, all Ellarrah was saw was emptiness.  Then thin threads of light framed massive blocks all around her that towered upwards and onwards and all around.  It was a dizzying sight, and as she backed away to behold the unique cleverness of it all, she found herself backing up into a wall.

Light pulsated from it as she made a noise and spun around, only to find a long wall that seemed to stretch for eternity. It's surface was reflective, and she saw her own faded image before her, though it was wavering, as if the wall had been made of liquid.  Blinking, she approached, lightly touching it as she watched her own reflection ripple again.

"Angsar's breath..." she backed away, staring in awe at her reflection.  But still..
this strange place gave her the creeps, no matter how awesome looking it was and that's when she saw him-
Jazbel was on the other side of the mirror-like wall.  Though he appeared much larger, as if he was looking right into her.  He was a giant! of all the things...

Her eyes lit up.
"Jaz!" she called out, beating her fist against the wall and sending ripples of colors coursing across the wall that separated them... It appeared futile though- could he even hear her? Could he even see her? And why was he so tall!? And she so small!?

Then...
the world began to shift around her.

The great big pieces of block began to move, resort themselves together, before settling loudly together with a big crunch as they made a new display.

Ellarrah dropped what she was doing onto to stare at the vastness of the puzzle like world before her.

"Dear God, where am I?" she whispered.  "It's as if I'm inside that damned-" that's when it occurred to her that she WAS inside that damned, cursed puzzle ball!


OOC: I hope this makes sense XD
she's trapped inside, she could see Jazbel OUTSIDE (looking at the ball) before he was sucked in, and then she just happened to make the connection that perhaps she's stuck inside the damn thing so yeah...
dump him in as you like <3


I figure it would be fun if the puzzle could move like tetris pieces and they have to figure out a way to navigate through it in order to escape or something..
X3

The moving of the walls had knocked out Jazbel.
The man awoke in darkness minutes later, his  groans echoing in his surroundings.
Where am I?
Groggily, he sat up against what apparently was a wall, etched with runes in old tongues that he both recognized and didn't, but  none he was able to read. Jazbel began to wrinkle his nose, but immediately regretted that decision.
Oh, right, he thought as he sullenly cupped his hands around his nose.
Ellarrah. Curse that woman, he had to find her.
"Ellarrah," he choked as he pressed himself against the wall and slowly edged his way up.

He looked up. The... ceiling, if he could call it that looked oddly familiar. Like wood. And.. was that a chair? With his things on it? The man's eyes widened in wonder.
"By Kia's light...." he muttered.
Something at the corner of his eye caught his attention. Jazbel turned towards his right, and
gave out a startled shout of surprise. A skull and bones, shrouded in dust laid before him.
We've admitted ourselves into a deadly prison, he thought, panicking.
"Ellarrah!" he said, his voice louder this time.

Jazbel quickly scurried down the hall. Thankfully, it wasn't that long. A wall blocked his way.
Damnit, he thought as his hands traced the runes.
There has to be a door, a mechanism of some sort... There HAS to be.
Of course, it didn't, but thankfully, there was.
As his finger touched a symbol, carved to look like the moon, it glowed as the runes began to shift. The walls began to rumble as they started to shift and move, again.

OOC: They have to find each other, first, mayhaps. mwahahahaha

OOC: X3
I had this thought the outside world around them was cast off into a darkness, kinda like the nighttime sky, but was still visible- almost like the real world was behind a dark tinted glass.


IC:

When the world moved again, Ellarrah readied herself, fists ready as the walls swung around, moving...
and it was then, as a wall moved past her she noticed someone familiar and gave a start.
"Jazbel!?" her voice echoed around them, eyes meeting to his the very moment a massive block blocked their view, keeping them apart.  She threw herself at it, beating her fist upon the solid block wall and swore.

"Ugh!" her frustration echoed into the darkness around her as she backed away, staring up at the massive walls that surrounded her. "Jazbel?" she spoke his voice again, hesitantly approaching the wall that separated, resting a hand delicately upon it as she listened to see if he was, infact there, or, if her mind had been playing tricks on her.  THis place was crazy, and she wouldn't be surprised if it was making her mind go crazy!

OOC: Oh, okay. I feel like they're stuck in a dungeon of a particularly hard japanese rpg xD
IC:

Jazbel clung to a wall for his dear life as the walls began to shift. For a brief moment, he swore he had saw a shadow, and reached out for it.
Ellarrah!
Swiftly as the shadow came into his vision, so did a wall to separate the two. As all things settled, Jazbel tried to regain  his balance. The man's eyes scanned the new wall. To his dismay, it was smooth.
There's got to be a way out of here, he thought as he desperately looked around him.

Then there was that sound. Muffled, but close. Jazbel leaned against the smooth wall, pressing his ears against it. Then he heard it. His name! The man beamed. She was still alive, praise Kia!
"Ellarrah!" he said loudly in disbelief.
"M'lady! Look for a moon rune," he said, quickly, a plan formulating in his mind.
"The moon! Do you see it?"

OOC: Lol-
Bwahahahahaha

IC:

At the sound of the voice on the other side her expression perked up.
"Jazzy!" she said, with much elation, then focused, listened quietly as she mentioned something about a moon.
"A moon rune?" Was he daft? But this whole world was, as she scrunched her face and began to look around.
"Everything looks the same. I'm surrounded by large, solid blocks!" She turned around a good few times, peering up at the ones steeping above them and felt herself growing dizzy as she leaned against a rock.
It was then she spotted a symbol, three blocks above her and blinked.

"I see something!" she said, and backed away, studying it.

"But this one has a star on it." She furrowed her brow.  That wasn't a moon.

Jazbel rubbed his temples at the sound of the woman's voice as a wave of relief swept over him.
Praise Kia, he thought as he pressed himself against the wall.
The man nodded at her question as he continued to look around his surroundings. There could be a symbol on his side, too.
"Yes, the moon! We're in a labyrinth, I think," he said, growing ecstatic.
The man decided to leave out the detail about the corpse- the woman was already afraid of confined spaces as it were. He didn't need her panicking.

"But there's a way out! You press the right runes, and the walls move!"
Jazbel frowned at her mention of a star. Well, that was odd. But if she said so...
"Can you reach it? Try pressing it," he suggested.

Ellarrah made a face.
"It's pretty high up there!" she informed him, shouting through the rock as she eyed the thing.
"Maybe I could throw something at it?" she looked around, but most of the room was vacant, except for the giant, rock blocks.  Sighing, she shook her head.

"It's too far off the ground. I don't know if I could even reach it if I had something to throw at it."
Looking around, she ran a hand frustratedly through her hair.
"It's no use. The rune is just too far away, Jazzy."

It was then she noticed something in the far off corner and her eyes lit up.
There was a symbol, right at her level. ANd it was the symbol of the sun.
"Hey, I think I found somethin'!" she said, making her way over towards it. "It looks like..." Yes, she had been right. "It's the symbol of the sun."

Jazbel frowned, discouraged when Ellarrah mentioned the rune was too high.
"Damn," he cursed under his breath as his eyes continued to scan the surrounding walls.
There was nothing there. Jazbel looked into the depths of the newly formed corridor. Perhaps there was a rune somewhere down the way, though the man did not want to venture into that emptiness alone. Besides, what if he found a rune, but that only further separated him from Ellarrah?
Though there's  no guarantee that the one she was looking for won't,  Jazbel grimly reminded himself.

Jazbel's heart fell when Ellarrah gave up.
"It's okay," he replied.
He was disappointed, though he understood. There was hardly anything in this place to assist them. Jazbel was about to propose his new plan to search for another rune on his end of things, when Ellarrah brightly  exclaimed that she found another symbol.
"Then what are you waiting for, lass?" Jazbel replied.

Ellarrah hesitated as she approached it.
"Well, what do you want me to do with the thing? Just ... push it or something?" Her lips sagged at the idea. "And how do we know these walls just won't..." she sighed. "Oh never mind, it's not as though we have a choice, now do we?"
Rubbing her hands together. "Here goes nothing."s he muttered, and moved forward, pressing her hand flat against the rune as the symbol lit up.

That's when the ground began to rumble.  Leaping away, Ellarrah braced herself as the wall ontop of her began to move. She made a scream, jumping out of the way just as it turned into another wall around her, snaking around and mish-mashing all of the blocks into another set of puzzle like mazes...

However, she still was not in the same location as Jazbel.
Cursing, she rose off the ground and sighed.

"It looks like just another configuration of the last maze. Blast it,"s he said, kicking a stone, and not realizing it was the moon rune.
The rune lit up, the floor reconfigured and she braced herself, when a wall behind her suddenly shoved her forward and before she knew it, she was yelping as she was forced ontop of Jazbel, her hair in his face as the two fell onto the ground.

OOC: LOL that poor man can't get a break, can he? Gonna break his back, she is XD Also i figured the wall was sort of like those of
IC:

"Yes!" Jazbel encouraged as Ellarrah asked what she was supposed to do with the symbol. The man crouched on the ground, ready to pounce out of the way of a moving wall if need be. Standing, so far, hadn't done him any good, but the man didn't want to be caught unaware on his arse, either.
"Come on," he muttered, offering up a prayer up to Kia that this was going to work.
Though despite experiencing the shift before, Jazbel knew that he was never going to get used to it. He yelled as the walls and ceiling moved, though his eyes remained fixed on the wall separating him and Ellarrah.

Then all stood still. Jazbel frowned.
"Ellarrah?" he shouted. "Oi! Elle!"
No response.
The woman was no where to be found.
Jazbel cursed as he ran a hand through his thinning purple hair. So his assumption had been wrong. Further, he had no idea where the hell she was.
Just brilliant, he thought as he examined the wall before him.

The man frowned. It was different from the ones, before. Vividly colored pictures along with a lettering more akin to modern Common was writ on the wall. The pictures seemed to tell a story of some prince from...
"Fell," Jazbel muttered in awe.

At that moment, the ceiling shook, and Jazbel was knocked to the ground. He cried out in  excruciating pain with tears forming at his eyes, it hurt that bad. However, his voice muffled by hair. Irritably, Jazbel gently pushed Ellarrah away, removing stray hairs from his mouth.
"My nose," he groaned. "My back."
However, Jazbel managed to let out a weak smile as he laid sprawled on the ground.
"Have a little more mercy on an old man, would you, Elle?"

Groaning, Ellarrah picked her head up to realize just what had happened.
"Jazbel!" she screamed with delight, throwing her arms around him. "Never thought I'd be this glad to see ya. But where the hell are we? And what the hell is this thing? It's like we're stuck inside that blasted puzzle ball and now have to solve it from within."

Ellarrah made a face and moved to stand, offering Jazbel a hand as she tucked back some of her hand.
"Here, let me help the old man to his feet." She said with a playful smirk.
"Now, I need you in one piece, you know? We got to figure this thing out, and I hate to admit it, but I ain't exactly the smartest girl. I get too frustrated with puzzles and I was too impatient when I was in school."

Planting her hands to her hips she sighed.
"But I guess I can help you the best I can. So long as this place doens't start creeping in on us." She said, staring at the tall blocks above them that just seemed to hoover in the air."S he sighed again.
"Got any bright ideas, Jazzy?"

"Hi," Jazbel replied as the woman threw her arms around him.
His mobility limited, he patted her on the back, awkwardly.
"Told ya, it's a labyrth," he muttered, "A magical one, at that. Clearly."
The man took in a deep breath as Ellarrah moved to stand up. He was a man of a small frame, so though the woman wasn't weighty, she had still put a considerable amount of pressure on his lungs. He could finally breathe proper again, and Jazbel was thankful for it.
"Thanks," he muttered as he took her hand, ignoring her comment.

Jazbel stretched and rolled his shoulders as he listened to the woman talk. He gave a slight head tilt at the mention of her not being the sharpest. Well, he could see that, though Jazbel knew to hold his tongue. The man arched his brow at the mention of school. He had never attended, as he had lived his life forever on the road. Whatever he had learned he had picked up, somewhere. Jazbel nodded at Ellarrah's suggestion.

"At least we're together," he said, placing a hand on her shoulder.
His back still hurt something terrible, and he needed the momentary support.
"Well, we know now that celestial runes are what move the walls," he said, slowly.
"And to solve puzzles you need to get to the end of them. Only, there is no end to this place, is there? Maybe we have to get to,  the heart of this place, instead. The core."
He paused, gesturing towards the wall.
"Did they teach you to read old languages, by any chance? Anything about Fell, even?" he asked.

"They only taught us the written tongue and writing, some brief history and math," Ellarrah said while scrunching her nose, but at the mention of the Fell, she paled.
"You.. you don't meant to think this is the Fell?" though a silly comment, she said it too late before she realized how ridiculous that must've sounded.
"Or, that you believe this is something from the Fell," her eyes narrowed as she surveyed the area around them and shivered.
"Either way, the idea gives me the creeps." she turned back to Jazbel. "Why you askin'? All I know about that place is it's infected with a wretched curse.  Seems the old folks back where I'm from love to tell tales about it to keep children from running amok outside during all hours of the night. Almost had me believing the damn Fell was an actual being more than a place..." she shivered at the idea, then turned to Jazbel.

"You.. don't honestly think this is linked to that cursed place, do you?" she appeared quite worry as she voiced her question.

The corner of Jazbel's mouth twitched as he sighed when Ellarrah described what they taught at her school. So much for an education being useful. The man gave a wry smile when she asked if it was Fell, though the woman seemed to pick up on his meaning soon enough.
"Aye," he replied softly as Ellarrah asked him about his intentions.
The man shrugged as he gestured for her to move along with him, his eyes fixated on the pictures on the wall. His thoughts turned back towards Noki and Asven Rednet. The spy had known that Noki's family was old, but it had been beyond his imagination to conjure the thought that her family was ancient enough to trace their roots back to Fell.
What makes it all the more disturbing is that Rednet has a client, he thought, grimly. Jazbel didn't dare to dream what could be done with such a mysterious puzzle.

"Unfortunately, I do," he muttered, squeezing Ellarrah's shoulder. Jazbel decided not to bother the lady with this information. It wasn't her business to know, anyhow. He did have a policy.
"But no need to fret, m'dear. I don't think it's going to take us there. Let us hope, anyway."

The hallway was longer than the ones previous. Somewhere in the nearby distance, a light glowed in the darkness. Jazbel frowned.
"Stay close," he muttered, though he doubted Ellarrah needed to be told.  The light came from a statue with an orb of light in its hands. It was of a woman, a nymph by the looks of it, elegantly posed as she looked up towards the heavens with a wistful expression. Starflowers decorated her hair. She was from a myth that Jazbel could not remember, though he doubted it was relevant. What was, however, was the two dark passage ways that were before them, two doors  a couple of feet apart. A sun rune was above the left, a moon over the right.

Jazbel frowned.
"Which do you fancy?" he asked Ellarrah.

OOC: Still keeping to the tetris sorta deal you wantd... just made this piece a bit more complex :P

Ellarrah followed quietly behind Jazbel, her eyes studying their surroundings with defensive interest. Then, when they approached the statue, her eyes traced it's form as she placed a hand to her hips.

"Awfully interesting to have some sort of statue placed here, don't ya think?" she asked, turning to look over at Jazbel, then to the two pathways before them as she frowned.
"Bloody 'ell, if it ain't any more choices."She sighed and pointed at the moon. "We seemed to have good luck with that symbol. Perhaps we ought to follow it again?"

She placed a hand on his shoulder, gently and gestured, "Lead the way, love."

OOC: Yeah, I just meant tetris-y in the fact the pieces move apart in cubed blocks to reform patterns and stuffffff

<3 but we can be as creative here as we like, heehe
and sorry the post is short D:
I figure Jazbel would be more of the leader here in this scenario since Ellarrah would more than likely just follow him blindly at this point since she has NO idea what to make of all of this.

OOC: It's cool :3
IC:

"Aye," Jazbel agreed as Ellarrah commented on the statue. He had originally thought it was a prison of sorts, and maybe it was, but not quite so that. The place was too.. intricate, and that statue. Was this a tomb for an ancient king?  Or the home of a spirit? Jazbel could only imagine, though he shuttered at the thought. He didn't know how much he liked the idea of something living in this dreary place other than themselves. The man arched a brow at Ellarrah's choice of words. Good luck?
"If you could call it that," he muttered with a nod.

The door was at the top of a flight of winding stairs that spiraled down into a vast room filled with bronze chests filled with treasures, and books stacked and piled high. It, too, was illuminated by glowing orbs. Jazbel's eyes widened  at the marvel. He beamed. Perhaps the books had the answers for how they could get out of there! Of course, there  might be language issues, but pictures, maps... anything! The man was tempted to steal, of course, but his client...

The man hurried towards a table where maps were spewed across with scattered papers filled with notes. To his delight (and utter surprise) the notes were in some sort of script Common, though it was vastly different than modern Common.
Could this have belonged to a man whose skull that belonged to? he thought, his mind wandering back to the pile of dust he had seen from before.
"Ellarrah, come and look at this," he muttered.

Ellarrah kept closed behind Jazbel, her eyes warily scouting the area as she brought up the rear. The stair case seemed never ending, and as they continued upwards and onwards, it wasn't long before she began to complain.
"Ugh, are there any ends to these stairs?"
But as luck would have it, only one hundred more to go and they found themselves in a room glittering with treasure.

Ellarrah couldn't take her eyes off of it. It was such a beautiful sight. So many riches...
She couldn't hide her smile as she nudged Jazbel's side.
"Get a load of all of this stuff! How much gold and treasures do you think are in here? We could live like kings!"

Ellarrah's mouth was salivating so much that she almost didn't hear what Jazbel was saying as she approached a chest, her fingers itching to open it. Then she heard him and turned away, curious as to what he thought was so interesting in a place like this.
Must be SOME piece of gold, but when she approached she made a noise.
"Tch, a book?" then blinking, she peered at it more thoroughly. "That almost looks like common script except.." she squinted her eyes. "Some of those letters.. I've never seen before."

Jazbel rolled his eyes at Ellarrah's distaste of the book.
Women, he thought, grumpily. Almost always more appealed by things that glisten rather than those that are useful.
"Yes, Elle. A book. Maps, to be more exact. And a guide..."
The man waved towards the notes, handing Ellerrah a couple of papers.
"Here, help me read this," he muttered.

The man  scanned the notes as his finger glided across the map before him. It was messy, with paths crossed out, and others circled with arrows pointing in different directions. Someone had been using it to navigate the place. But why? Jazbel studied the notes with a scowl. His eyes had to read lines twice, three times, in order to understand them. Though he knew how to read, his skills weren't the strongest, and the older script made things almost impossible to comprehend.

Something about a dead king... this is his tomb, he thought as he read along. Locked away in the puzzle forever so that treasure hunters and those with wandering hands, eyes, and hearts will never learn its secrets unless the labyrinth wanted them too... the way is shut. There's no way out. Except....
Jazbel's mouth ran dry as he stared at a picture at the bottom of a page. He had given Ellarrah the next , he was sure of it, for he had given her the bottom half.
"Elle, what do your notes say?" he asked.
His voice had a slight tremble to it.
At the bottom of the page was a drawing of a blue woman, with a deadly look in her eye. She was bonded to  a ring of sorts.
A ghost, or a djinn, he realized.
That's our way out, at the heart of it all.


OOC: 1,000 years, and such a crink in the neck!

Ellarrah was looking through all of the pieces of paper he had given to her, but she grew frustrated with them quite easily, as it was almost impossible to make out a sentence.
"Gods, what sort of language ARE these in anyways? I can only make out some of this none sense because of the drawings. And they are none to pretty, either." She handed over a piece of paper to Jazbel and pointed at a picture of a blue woman holding a bloody heart, and on top of that, a key inside a flame with shackles bound to it.

"I don't like the looks of this image, but there are some things over here with notes about those symbols we saw. Something about ... aligning the symbols of the sky, or whatever.. freedom, fire,  a curse I'm sure."

Sighing, Ellarrah raked a hand through her hair.
"Gods, I wish I hadn'tve messed with that cursed ball." Sighing again, she handed Jazbel her sets of papers. "Maybe you'll have better luck with this. You seem to have all the brains."  Looking down at the papers on the table, she shuddered.
"Oh great, more creepy images." She said, noting all of the poses painted on a piece of paper that the blue woman was in, and one in particular looked none to pleasing, her holding a bloodied man's head.

"I hope we don't run into whatever this blue-woman is," she said with a  shudder.  "Turning to Jazbel, she peered over his shoulder. "Please tell me you've found something that *doesn't* involve the creepy blue woman thing."


OOC: *makes this up as she goes* Might as well make that blue woman more creepy, haha.

Curious as of to what was unsettling Ellarrah, Jazbel quickly took the papers and scanned the pictures. Chills ran down his spine. It was the same woman as the one in the notes he had.
Aligning the symbols? Freedom and fire? Curses?
The cryptic message didn't put Jazbel in any better spirits.
Ellarrah's praise of his intellect didn't do much to lift his mood.
"I don't know any more than you do," he admitted.

The man flipped through the other papers, but nothing else offered any clues on how to leave the labyrinth. He sighed and vigorously rubbed his hair, deep in thought. First things first, they had to figure out a way out of here. The man looked around them before looking down at the map and tapping his finger at a large room.
"We're here," he said as his fingers traced through the path ways.
"I think that whoever left this behind solved the puzzle. We can use this."
But what if that person never escaped? The notes.
Jazbel tried to push those thoughts out of his head.

He quickly rolled up the scroll and began to search the room.
"Look for a weapon. A sword, dagger. Anything," he suggested. Though they were alone, they didn't know what horrors awaited them. It was best to go prepared.

Ellarrah sighed as she shifted her weight anxiously about and scanned the room.
"Although this room is full of treasure, it still gives me the creeps," Ellarrah admitted.

Then at him mentioning the map seemed to actually be readable, she examined it herself.
"I wonder if it has a map of all the different combinations of those runes we saw." That's when she began to study it even deeper, her brows furrowing.
"Looks like there is some sort of pattern. Perhaps that might be the combination to getting to this spot, here," Ellarrah pointed to the center where the blue woman's symbol was.
"It seems the map leads us there, and whomever this blue-lady is.. well, let's just hope she can answer the riddle on how we ought ot escape a place like this."

Then at his mentioning of a weapon, she turned around, examining the place as she walked up to a pile of gold, lifting up a broad sword and resting it on her shoulders. 
Staring down at all of the gold and jewels, she sighed and shook her head.
"Such a pity... so much treasure but there's no use for it here." She turned back to Jazbel.
"Should we check out the treasure chests, or just leave 'em?"  Who knew, they might contain other valuable bits, but on the other hand...
they could be another trap.

Ellarrah was right. There was some sort of pattern.
Then there is a method to this madness, thought Jazbel, becoming hopeful.
Indeed, it would definitely be nicer if the blue woman- if there WAS a blue woman- would aid them instead of killing them.
"I hope so, too," he muttered.

As Jazbel rummaged through the boxes, he found a bow and quiver filled with six arrows and two carved knives.
This will do, he thought as he took the knives, and sunk down to the ground. He needed a moment. He was exhausted, and his face constantly hurting wasn't helping matters. He turned the blades over, thoughtfully. They were beautiful, with blades of steel and hilts of bronze.
Haven't rusted or become dirtied at all, he thought.
He chuckled at Ellarrah's commentary on the treasure.
"Leave it, m'lady," he warned.
They shouldn't even be using these weapons, but borrowing was a little more preferable than stealing.

The man sighed.
"Okay," he said, partially to himself. When they get back to their room, whenever that was, he noted that the first thing he would make it a point to do was to sleep like a log. Jazbel nodded in approval at Elle's broadsword.
"That'll do," he said, gesturing for her to follow him.

Down the hall he went until, sure enough,  the next sign was before them. This time , it was a constellation consisting of seven stars. Jazbel's fingers gently tapped the fifth.
"Erowen," he muttered, the memory of the story of the nymph returning to him. This was her constellation. Jazbel gripped tight to Ellerrah as the walls moved and shifted. Jazbel glanced at the map in his hands and at their surroundings. So far, everything seemed to be working all right. He gave his partner an encouraging smile.
"Are you alright, m'dear?" he asked. "We've got a couple more of these to endure."

Ellarrah moved cautiously, glad Jazbel was taking the lead.
"I'll be just fine, so long as one of these massive blocks doesn't squash me," she said, in poor humor as she gave a shrug and looked around at the new layout before them. This one looked a bit simpler, but it was hard to gadge. Just because the path looked more open, didn't mean the puzzle wasn't more complicated.

"This one seems pretty straight forward," she pointed towards a run block in the far corner. "I can see a symbol over there. Wonder which one it is?"

And she moved forward with a bit more confidence when she suddenly stepped on a small block that clicked. Blinking, she looked down, then heard a sudden noise as smaller blocks shot out from the ground. Ellarrah gasped and leapt away, though one was position precariously beneath Jazbel's legs and if he wasn't careful...

WHACK


Ellarrah winced when the block connected between Jazz's legs.

"Ewwwww... sorry, Jaz," she said, gritting her teeth.  She moved over to his side to help him, and that's when she heard the water pouring intot he room. "Hurry, let's get up on those blocks that just raised off the ground so we dont' get our feet wet." She helped pull poor Jazzy along onto the precarious brick work that jutted out of the ground. Atleas tit appeared they were following some sort of path.  They were raisd about two feet into the air and were only four feet long at best, so walking along them was a balancing act as Ellarrah's eyes scanned the room.

"We'll need to be careful not to trigger any more traps. Let's get to that rune symbola nd get out of here before the water fills this place up and we drown."


OOC: I hope it's ok I had the brick hit Jazzy in the groin <3
I'll make up for it on this picture I'm drawing of them with the 'dart' XD
Just have to add Ell to it and it's done :D
:D
:D

OOC: Eh, next time let me decide what hits, please ^.^;;
IC:

Poor humor it was indeed. Jazbel squirmed at the thought of being squashed, as she said. At the very least, Jazbel was grateful the path before them was spacious. The hallways from before were much narrower; he could touch both walls if he outstretched his hands in them. But in here, the halls were as wide as five men. Jazbel frowned as Ellarrah moved in to touch a new symbol. They had to be careful, in order not to mess up the pattern. He was about to stop her, to tell her that they ought to consult the map, first, but it was too late.

The man's eyes widened until they were almost circles as his privates were so brutally  punched. He groaned, shooting Ellarrah a deathly glare.
"Oh, aye?" he sarcastically replied as the woman apologized, his voice pinched.
Suddenly, water started pouring in from the floor and from holes on the wall. Soon, the room was engulfed in its roar.
Where is this water coming from? Jazbel thought, in wonder.
Next thing he'd know, there'd be a secret zoo!

The man nodded bitterly at Ellarrah's comment.
"And whose fault is that?" he reminded her as he carefully followed her up the steps.
Jazbel tried not to look down at the rising water, or the lack of any other vertical support other than the wall. Finally, once they reached the top, Jazbel took in a deep breath. Before there stood three runes. The man quickly consulted the map before pressing the middle one.
Please don't rumble, please don't rumble, please don't...
Unfortunately, it did. The water got drawn down in a vortex, a mighty whirl pool. Jazbel fell, and clung to his platform as the walls groaned and began to shift.
"Ellarrah!" he shouted in a panic.

OOC: Yikes! D: Sorry, I normally ask- shoulda asked.. >.< will do so in the future~

IC:
"Jaz!" her voice echoed as she threw herself at him, snatching onto his hand as she held onto him for dear life, the vortex sucking in the water roaring all around them in a deafening manner.
"Jaz! Hold on!" but what else could either of them do? The vortex was a terrifying sight,a nd the walls all around them were moving and falling and collapsing..
It was only then a mass of block dropped beside them, and it could have CRUSHED them had it been several feet closer.
Ellarrah had even braced herself for it to happen, but once the block fell and settled beside them, she opened her eyes to see it opened a way to another room.

"Jaz!" she looked over towards the open room. "We need to get over there before we're sucke into that vortex." Here, she helped pull him to his feet and held onto him fast so either wouldn't lose their balance.
"Follow me, if we jump we can make it!" and she moved, leaping over the void between their block and the one that had just fallen just as it began to rumble, threatening to move again.
Turning around as she caught her balance, she offered out a hand.
"Jump! Jaz! Jump! Before the blocks move again!"

"Bless you, lass," Jazbel said breathlessly as he firmly grabbed onto Ellarrah's hand. The man struggled to pull himself up , but it was difficult, especially with the walls tumbling down all around them. It didn't give him any comfort, either, that Ellarrah's damned eyes were shut. The man was about to say something when, all of a sudden, they were completely casted in shadow. Jazbel looked up and watched as a mass of block barely missed them.

As it crashed into the waters below, Jazbel was petrified. He dangled almost limply, feeling as if the strength in his body had drained.
Is my heart still beating? he thought, in shock. I'm not entirely sure.
Though the examination on the state of the vital organ was put on hold as Ellarrah spoke again, snapping Jazbel out of his completely state of shock, but not out of it entirely.
"Yes, ma'am," he muttered as he put all he had into lifting himself over the edge.
Once on the platform, Jazbel took a moment to really breathe.
Though that wasn't quite the most convenient time, Jazbel figured he had a half second to spare, if only half.

The man sighed as he rose to his feet. He didn't remember the map saying anything about this, though maybe he had misread it. Jazbel eyed the passageway, calculating how far he had to jump. He wasn't the most nimble of men, having already passed those years of his youth. With a determined nod, he backed up ever so slightly before lunging himself towards the edge. With  a shout, he tumbled  towards Ellarrah.
"Sorry, m'lady," Jazbel said as he straightened himself out.

He looked back towards the collapsing room and at the roaring whirlpool. Shivers ran down his spine as a wall closed behind them, surrounding them in darkness. It was impossible to see. Jazbel held his hand out in front of him and wiggled a few fingers, but he saw nothing.
What now? he thought with a grimace.
The answer was in the ceiling. It was beautiful, a river of starlight. Jazbel recognized a few patterns and was vaguely aware of the rest.
"I guess we're meant to follow it," he said , reaching out to where he thought Ellarrah was.

OOC: No prob :P

Ellarrah made a noise.
"Watch where your hands are goin'!"
But instead of smacking his hand away, she held onto it as she peered up at the ceiling.
"We need to stick close if we want to make it out of this thing. I can't say I'd be too happy getting lost in here by myself." Her eyes continued to study the ceiling, but she was hesitant to press onward, a foot gingerly moving forward.

"The ground seems solid, but we ought to move slowly, so as to avoid any holes we might not see," she informed Jazbel, and for some reason, her voice had hushed, as if the darkness warranted it.

"Angsar's breath, this place is full of riddles, isn't it? Does the map say anything?" But then she realzied..
"Oh, I doubt you can see anything in this darkness."

Sighing, Ellarrah kept moving forward until her foot hit something solid and she made a noise.
"Jazzy!"s he stepped back, pressing against him as her foot tested he surface. Then she bent over, feeling it with her hands.
"I think I found something." She groped into the darkness but couldn't tell. "Is there anything over there? This feels like-"
and that's when it suddenly glowed, the statue, hueing with life and nearly blinding Ellarrah, despite the light being faint as it pulsated into the air.

"What the..." It was then she noticed the statue- it looked a heck of a lot like that woman from the map.
"Jazzy, are you seeing this?"
Ellarrah was at a loss. Was this the same statue, or another one?

OOC: I Hope this makes sense >>
Posting after a stressful day makes for special brains @_@

"Sorry," Jazbel sheepishly apologized, his fingers intertwining with hers.
The man nodded eagerly in the dark at Ellarrah's suggestion.
"Aye," he agreed.
The quicker they got through this room, the better. 

Jazbel took cautious steps as Ellarrah suggested, moving deliberately. Perhaps it was her hushed voice, or also because of the darkness, or both, but his footsteps were quiet. He was lurking in the dark and towards what, Jazbel did not know.
"If I could check the map, I would," he replied, mournfully.
Jazbel hoped they weren't just getting more lost.

The man stopped dead in his tracks as Ellarrah hit something. He heard it, a small thunk sound. Curious, the man reached out in front of him. He was greeted by the cold and smooth texture of what seemed like marble. Jazbel gasped as he drew his hand back, shielding his eyes as he watched the statue rise in the air.

"What on earth..." he muttered.
The statues eyes, which were closed, suddenly burst opened. It glared down at the two. Jazbel practically screamed as he clutched Ellarrah.
"State your names." the statue said in a low, mysterious, and utterly terrifying voice.
"J-Jazbel Orarca, if it please  you, mum. And this here is Ellarrah," Jazbel replied in as much of a voice as he could muster. It wasn't much.
The statue didn't seem impressed.
"It is unusual for thieves and trespassers for yourselves to make it this far."
"Thieves? No," Jazbel replied, shaking his head. "No, no, no, no. That is... we're sorry to trespass, it was an accident. But we're not here to steal. We just want to go home."
The statue contemplated on this answer for what seemed like an eternity.

OOC: so im guessing this is either the real blue woman or the gate keeper to the tomb or a ..well how would u say it. a manification of the blue woman? Herself, but not her true self lol

"Bloody hell, the statue is moving!" Ellarrah gasped, eyes wide as saucers as she stared, mouth gaping open as the woman seemed to come alive.  Then the bloody thing spoke, and Ellarrah could have pissed herself.

"Yes, home!" Ellarrah spoke up, taking a step forward when she finally reclaimed her voice and strength.  "We just want out of this bloody thing.  We hadn't meant to mess with it, but it was all a mistake, a misunderstanding then we find ourselves here."

It was then her lips clamped shut when the statue turned to look at her, and Ellarrah took that one step back as she gripped more tightly to her sword. She didn't like the looks she was getting.

"So you are both fools, thieves and spies?" the statue asked, it's eyes glowing, burning with orange.

Ellarrah hesitated, feeling her face grow white, but she also grew agitated over the accusation she was a 'fool'.

"Well, not exactly, I'd like to consider it ignorant more than foolish," Ellarrah replied, and the statue continued to look at her and she felt the back of her neck tense under that gaze.  Ellarrah gritted her teeth.  "Look, Miss Statue Lady, we're not trying to fool you or anything, we just accidently found ourselves in the puzzle ball we found and just want to go home."


The statue's eyes continued to burn, never leaving Ellarrah's as she felt herself swallow the rock swelling in her throat.

"Home?" the statue said after a moment, a light pulsated from her mind.  Ellarrah felt dizzy from it and lost her grip on her sword as it clamored to the ground.  "As far as I see it, you two have no homes."
And the psychic frequency the statue was emiting had Ellarrah on her knees as she clutched her head.

"Ugh, what is this!?" Ellarrah exclaimed. Her head was pounding.

"I can read into your thoughts, and neither of you even have a home to go to," the statue replied simply, her eyes still burning as Ellarrah cringed and looked up at her.

"What?" Ellarrah couldn't believe this.

"You are thieves who travel on the open road.  Would this place be no different than another to call your grave?" the statue asked.

"Grave?" Ellarrah bared her teeth and fetched up her sword. "Ok, now you're pissing me off!" She was already on her feet, gripping her sword tightly as she narrowed her gaze upon the statue.  "Just let us out of here! We just want out!"

The statue's eyes only burned as she looked at them.

"So do I," the statue simply replied.  "IF you can free me, than I shall free you."

Ellarrah took a step back, her face twisting at the question as she looked over at Jazbel.

Jazbel flinched at the mention of thieves and spies, feeling mighty uncomfortable in his own skin. The statue's glare -was it a statue?- was violating. They pierced into his mind, his memories. The power of it was so overwhelming that it, too, forced him on his knees. Jazbel gasped as he clenched his temples with one hand, the other over his heart as if she had somehow seized it, too.
"Grave?" he repeated, horrified.
Jazbel wasn't keen on dying any time soon. Neither was Ellarrah, so it seemed, though the man wasn't exactly fond of her tactics.
"Don't be so rude," he hissed.
Spirits were known to have fiery tempers. Jazbel didn't want to upset this statue lady... thing any further.

The lady's next words shocked him.
Free her to free themselves?
Jazbel pondered on this.
Well, the Lady Noki never said anything about a statue spirit -or whatever this woman was- and freeing her. All she wanted was the puzzle. Plus, their lives were at stake. Jazbel nodded. Appeasing this statue lady, it seemed, was their only way out.

The man rose to his feet and boldly stepped forward towards the statue lady, shielding his eyes from her radiance.
"And how do we free you, exactly?" he asked, skeptical.
Though Jazbel was eager to  escape, he wasn't foolish. Such things came with a price, as they always were.

The statue grinned, both beautiful and horrible.
"You travel to the heart of Fell," she boomed in her majestic voice.
"There you will find an ancient temple to which  can open the gates to the labyrinth and allow me to pass through."
Jazbel pressed his lips together and turned towards Ellarrah. He shrugged. So what if Fell had a curse involved and it was sort of taboo travelling grounds?  He wasn't a mage. Neither was Ellarrah, from what he's seen from her reaction to magic. They were both safe.
"Sounds easy enough," he said, but the statue didn't seem to agree with him.
"But that alone will not be enough.  You must find a weapon to destroy the labyrinth," the lady continued. "Least it calls back its Guardian once again."

Jazbel was caught off guard by that one.
Destroy?
But that meant... the puzzle... He blanched at that.
He opened his mouth to retaliate but the statue would have none of it.
"If you do not do what I say, then you will die here," she said.
Jazbel sighed, defeated.
"Yes, ma'am," he muttered.

"I suppose we have little choice," Ellarrah said, sighing as she turned to Jazbel, then she looked back at the statue lady.  "But how do we do all of this? You're asking us to free you in order to free ourselves, but it seems we've got a bit of a predicament here.  I mean, if you want us to travel to the Fell, we can't very well get there trapped inside your puzzle ball."

The lady turned her burning eyes on Zarrah- and she appeared both happy and angered all at once.
"You can prove your worth by finishing this puzzle, and there, I will grant you access to my power... and my curse. It will grant you a connection with me after I return you to your world.  Do as I ask, I will remove you from your obligation, and the mark I will set upon you.  Fail.. and you will be consumed within my labyrinth."

Ellarrah blinked.
"So what you're saying is, we have to find the heart of this place, and once we're there, you'll grant us your power to help us get to the Fell?"

The statue smiled angrily again.
"You are most perceptive, human.  But it is not only that. This is a binding contract if you wish to become free, you must seek my freedom as well, and the answers are in the Fell."

Turning to Jazbel, Ellarrah shrugged.
"It does seem rather simple." she said, then turned back to the statue lady. "But what is this about some mark and having your power..."
But before she could get an answer, the lady settled back into stone.


Sighing, Ellarrah wilted.
"Angsar's balls, this is getting better and better." She turned to Jazbel.  "What do you make of all this, Jaz?"
She looked around for a way out.
"We still need to finish this puzzle, AND turn ourselves over to some sort of curse?" She made a face. "I don't know what I even think about all of this, but do we have a choice?" She noticed a small stair case in the corner, and another celestial rune printed on top.
Sighing, she gestured towards it.
"I think, in order to move on wards, we'll have to go through there. It appears to be another celestial door."

Jazbel listened somberly as Ellarrah and the statue  spoke.
Answering questions with riddles. How droll, he bitterly thought.
So not only did they have to travel to Fell, they had to find some weapon to destroy the very puzzle they apparently had to solve in order to get out. He didn't know how much he liked being marked. It was an idea too.. permanent for him. Too dangerous sounding.
But no choice. Always with the limited choices.

"Does it really, now?" he replied, arching an eyebrow as Ellarrah commented on the simplicity of the nature of their quest. It didn't sound simple at all. All the complications this involved... not to mention the wrath of his client. Jazbel never had an unsatisfied customer,  never! This was a nightmare.  The man scowled as the lady turned to complete stone, again.
Well that was rather rude, he thought with a scuff. He had questions of his own, though Jazbel supposed they'd have to wait until they could finish the puzzle, where he could only imagine that they'd meet again. They didn't even know her name!

"We are in a bit of bind," he replied to Ellarrah's question with a nod. Jazbel's mind was too occupied for him to be messing with words too much.
"Yeah, let's go."
As Ellarrah had predicted, the door led to a different room. Thankfully, there were no wall shifts nor rumblings. The door just simply opened.

They were greeted by a garden. Jazbel stared at it in surprise. So green and lush with queer and vibrant flowers that he had never seen the likes of before, save in pictures. A path laid before them, in neat stone bricks.
"An ancient garden of Fell," he said, mesmerized.
Jazbel smiled as he began to  walk through the path, taking in the wonderful smells. It was almost romantic. The garden was a maze in and of itself, but Jazbel didn't seem to mind. He took steady and confident steps until... they hit a  dead end. The man frowned.
Well, that can't be right, he thought.
Jazbel made his way towards the main path and pointed towards the opposite direction from which they came.
"We came from that way," he said, confounded. "So which way, now?"
Dread began to creep up on him.
Perhaps we're in the wrong place. We ought to go back, he found himself thinking.

OOC: I figured the garden would be one that muddles the mind, or clouds it with doubts. Maybe the smells? Otherwise, it would be simple to pass through.

OOC: It would be cool if it were messing with them X3

IC:
Ellarrah stared around, not sure what to make of the gardens as she planted her hands to her hips and looked around.
"Well, I'll be. This is some sorta garden they got here." She looked around, taking a moment to appreciate the smells as she bent over a pretty little pink flower.
"And would it be too much to ask for a man to just offer a lady some of these," Ellarrah muttered to herself, then lifted her head at Jazbel's claims.

"Aw, you've got to be kidding me!" she said, stumbling after she had gotten up and gave a groan.  Looking around, she only confirmed what he knew. "Blast it! Look at this! And the door we entered isn't even there!" SHaking her head, she felt distraught and turned towards Jazbel. "Well, there's gotta be a clue around here somewhere." Ellarrah pressed.  "She glanced around at their surroundings some more and noticed a large tree int he center. She couldn't help but approach it, craning her neck as she stared up and admired the dove-shaped flowers adorning the tree.

"Wow, would ya look at that?" Ellarrah said, completely transfixed by it all. "This garden is truly amazing!" and she didn't even notice she was forgetting their true purpose..
that they needed to find a way out...

"Maybe," Jazbel  replied with a nod at Ellarrah's optimism.
She was right. They were in a maze, but they've come this far! Of course they would be able to solve it, easy as tying one's breech's laces. Jazbel followed Ellarrah towards the giant tree. There was something strangely alluring and inviting about it. He peered up at the branches to discover the curious looking flowers.
"I shall fetch one for you," he said.
The man had heard her previous comment and his pride was stung by it.

Jazbel grunted as he grabbed some low branches and began to climb his way up the tree, reaching out for one of the beautiful blossoms. As he did, the man noticed that he could see over most of the hedges. To his delight, there, to the right, he could see the door with the moon symbol right over it! Jazbel wondered why they haven't thought of this plan before, it was so simple. Yes, and the path didn't seem all that complex, either.
But what if that's a trick door? he wondered.
Which way was which?

But no time for that ,now. He had a promise to a lady to keep! The man reached out for the dove blossom, stretching out his arm as far as he could. His fingers barely managed to grasp a solitary one, hanging upside down. To keep the blossom safe, he kept its stem between his teeth as he carefully climbed down.
"M'lady," he said with a bow as he presented the flower to Ellarrah.
Jazbel sat underneath the tree, tilting his head back.
His nose still hurt something terrible, and he needed medical attention. He was tired and exhausted, and this garden was so beautiful and peaceful. Already he could feel his mind at ease, slipping away.
"Elle," he said. "Why don't we take a break? We've been running, this whole time."

OOC: Awww, Jazzy got her a flower <3 <3


IC:
Ellarrah only blinked when Jazebl began to climb like a monkey into the tree. She would have protested, but she couldn't deny it was touching he'd climb all the way up there for a silly flower.
She just watched him, trying to hide the damn smile that was consuming her face.
"You climb like a monkey," she told him honestly, and took the flower, smiling at it with wonder as she smelled it. "Oh, this smells wonderful. I've never had a man pick me flowers before." she said, getting to her knees as she crouched before Jazzy with a smile.

"And if it's a break you want, love, it's a break you shall have. But don't you think that weird statue lady might get mad at us?" she pointed out, still holding her flower as she looked down at it, then smiled again with giddy delight.
"Though what's the point if we could just hang out here," she said, dropping onto the ground beside him, her red hair fanning about her head as she stared up at the flower Jazbel picked for her as she twirled it between her fingers.

"Everything smells so heavenly around here," she replied, closing her eyes at the contentedness she had been placed in by just being in such an environment.  "I could spend all eternity in a place like this." she thought, her voice drifting away as if she were about to fall asleep.

"Do I, now?" Jazbel said with a funny little grin.
He's only ever seen one once, at an exhibit. Some Serendian noble had a miniature zoo. A man from the jungle danced with it to jubilant music. The song and dance was amusing, though the monkey stank. Jazbel hoped he didn't reek, though it was hard to tell, what with his face still looking as if it had been run over by a cart twice.

Jazbel frowned  when Ellarrah mentioned nobody ever picked her a flower before. For a charming beauty like her, it was a shame, though he said no word of it. He shrugged when she asked if the statue lady would get mad.
"She didn't seem to hesitate to kill us; I'm sure she wouldn't mind us idly passing by some time here before solving this damned thing," he said.
Jazbel yawned. Now that he was sitting down, the exhaustion was really kicking in.  Jazbel's eyelids fell heavy, his mind starting to lose itself to the nonsensical thoughts of those half awake.
"Besides," he said, closing his eyes.
"It'll only be for a moment..."

He started to softly snore but a moment later.
OOC: poppies... poppies... poppies!!!

OOC: Random leech parasites-
GO !!!

XD


IC:


It was an unlikely place to nap-
and an unlikely place for a romp, but just as her dreams had tossed into a sweeter realm, things began to get steamy.

"Come on, Jazbel,"s he said, trying to push him off. "You ought to know my ear is my weakness." she cooed- not realizing she was speaking out loud, while her mind was still doused inside a dream.
There, she had been living in a world of serenity, even enjoying a good run in her dress when she felt something upon her..
Her mind, within it's dream, whirled to more recent transgressions, and as she felt something slip over her body, she let out a flirtatious giggle and assumed..
"Really, Jazbel!" she squealed, only to feel his lips all ove rher body at once as she shivered.
"Come on now, we should be married before you.."
It was then she let out a noise, kicked a foot heavily onto the ground as she gave a scream.


When she woke, she realized she had not been fooling around with Jazbel, and hadn't a clue as to what WAS fooling around with her!

"Ugh!" her eyes widened as some sluggish, amorphic blobs were leeched all over her body, and as one writhed up, she felt it suckle something out from her flesh-
and the sensation was wonderful and awful all at once, as if ice was being sucked through her teeth and bones, but many lips were suckling hotly at her flesh.

There were more than one of these damned things all over her too.  ANd they had these huge pair of creepy, lashy eyes that would ALMOST be cute, had the thing not been violating her!
She gave another cry and tore the one off her neck, only to hear it 'squish'a nd melt away when it touched the ground.
"Oh, what the bloody hell!?" she had no idea what to make of things, but gasped when suddenly the three ones on her back morphed into a bigger blob and knocked her over... pinning her forcefully to the ground.

She shivered as the thing suckled and suctioned onto her body, almost consuming her with it's gel like form.
"Oh, god, i"m being humped by some sort of monster leech!" she griped, monsterously appalled at her situation as she desperately searched around for something.. ANYTHING to pry this damn thing off of her body..
and unfortunately for her, it seemed to have cemented itself to her, securing her stronger, right arm beneath it's mass as she wriggled beneath it and...

well, the humpy little leech just kept right on sticking to her.

"Oh.. just.. yuck." she  weezed, eyes desperate, left hand groping into the tall grasses, hoping to find a sharp stick or a knife...

OOC: Pfft. Oh my ;D For a moment, I forgot they had weapons :I
IC:

Jazbel was out like a log, unaware of Ellarrah's dream and sleepy murmurs.
His eyes snapped open when she screamed.
What's going on? he thought, fully alert.
Jazbel was about to sit up, but- oh, Kia. Something was on his nose, sucking at it.
The man leaned back against the tree, howling in pain. He whimpered as he peeled off an almost gossamer, pearly white and blue leech off of his face. It was slimy and gross.  There was something cutesy about the strange creature, though the man didn't think he would go as far as call it attractive or cute in the slightest.  He flung it away in disgusted horror.

"Where the hell did they come from?" he exclaimed as he examined his body.
The leeches were everywhere!  He could feel one on his arse, shoulder, arm, stomach, neck. Thank Kia he was still in his boots. The man shifted uncomfortably as a leech was was trying to go too high up his thigh.
"No you don't," he muttered fiercely as he tugged at it.
The little bastard was a touch one, but Jazbel finally managed to do it with a yank.

Just then, Ellarrah was suddenly pinned to the ground.
Jazbel broke into a sweat as he watched three of the blobs form on Ellarrah's back.
They can do that? he thought, weakly.
Jazbel wildly checked his body, again. Quickly, the man reached for the quiver, aimed at the giant slug, and fired. The arrow shot through the blob and fell on the floor with a thunk. The slug writhed as it died and melted on Ellarrah's back.
The man shuddered before awkwardly leaning towards his side. Two were merging on his arm. He grabbed another arrow, and stabbed it.
So cold, he thought, his body shivering as it died.

There was nothing by for her to grab for-
and panicking, she was about to throw a punch at the thing when she noticed movement.
"Jazbel!?"
She lifted her head, both elated and horrified to watch him take aim with a bow and arrow-
then shot the thing skillfully off her back.

Elated, Ellarrah scrambled to her feet.
"Nice shot, Jazzy!" she said, almost embracing him before she reared back with an 'ugh.'
He had leeches all over his body.
She smacked the one off his shoulder.
"Gods, they're everywhere." then moved to pry the one off his neck.
"Hold still, ok?"
She helped him peel them off, then stomped them beneath her boots, only noticing the one on his rear as she pinched for it- perhaps pinching a bit of his ass along the way as she yanked the thing off.
"Sorry, Jazzy," She said, sighing as she scratched at the back of her neck, glancing around.
Findign her sword, she bent over and retrieved it before turning to him.

"I wonder what those things were." she said, not realizing one was crawling up her skirts.

Jazbel couldn't help but to beam at Ellarrah's compliment.
"Anything for a lady," he elegantly replied.
The man sighed as she noticed the leeches on his body. Yeah, that was still a problem.
He nodded as he let her help him, his eyes quickly scanning her body to check for any that she had missed. Jazbel flinched now and then with each pull, but didn't make a sound of protest. He found one in her hair and gently pried it off before following her example and stomping it. He jumped when she pinched his butt, itching the sore spot as he gave her a glare that was between flirtatious and stunned.

As Ellarrah turned, wondering where they had come from, he noticed one crawling up her calf, beneath her skirt. Without hesitation, Jazbel crouched down, grabbed her leg with one arm, pulling up her hem ever so slightly as he peeled it off.
There, he thought, making it a point not to look up. 
Jazbel stood up, wordlessly displayed the creature before his companion, before flickering it away.
"I don't know, but I don't care," he said, examining his quiver and scabbards to make sure there weren't any on them. Thankfully, they were clear.

"Let's just get out of here, shall we?" he asked leading the way with a dagger drawn. 
Before he had fallen asleep, Jazbel had seen the path laid out before him. He could see it now in his head.
Left... right... skip this turn... right, again...
But there was no door, only wall. With a tsk, Jazbel wildly lead the search for the door, but moments later, found himself again at a dead end.
I don't understand, he thought, I remembered the path exactly as how I saw it....
Conflicted, the man pulled out the map, narrowing his eyes as he read the print in regards to the maze.
"It says roughly... don't trust what you see,"  he said, frowning.
"That's bizarre, don't you think? Whoever wrote this is surely wrong, I don't understand..."

Ellarrah blushed when her skirts were lifted, even if it was a few inches as Jazbel delicately plucked the last little bugger off of her. Blushing, she shook her head and muttered,
"We need to get out of this garden. I don't care how pretty it is and how many flowers it may contain."

Sighing, she looked around, hands to her hips as she followed Jazbel as they examined the room, and the map.
Yawning, she draped a hand over her open mouth and shook her head again.
"Man, this place makes me sleepy," she said, rubbing at her eyes.  "Those damn slugs ruined my beauty rest." Though as she ran a hand through her hair, she made a face as it came caught upon a knot, and she quickly yanked her hand through it with a grunt.  Pushing her hair aside, she sighed and turned to Jazbel at his claims.

"What the hell does tha tmean?" Don't trust what you see? She made a face and looked around them. "But I've got two eyes, and I can most certainly tell you we're in a confined garden wit no doors, no paths and..." She sighed and wilted against Jazbel. "And all I want to do is rest!" she griped, and gave another sigh, almost closing her eyes as she rested an arm upon his shoulder.
"Please don't tell me we have to like, dig our way out of here because I might cry." ANd she wrinkle dher nose. "And who knows if we'll find any more of htose creepy little bastards crawling about." her eyes shifted to the tall grasses and flowers, but she saw no sign of the creatures any longer.

Jazbel nodded as Ellarrah protested on what Jazbel had read aloud. Aye, it was frustrating, that was for sure. As she fell against him, Jazbel brought his free hand around her shoulders and ran a hand through her hair.
"Maybe we should go back, head towards a different room. There might be another way," he muttered with a frown. He was getting sleepy, too, but he didn't want to fall asleep in this cursed place again. They had to leave now.  But where?

The man wrinkled his nose as Ellarrah commented on digging. Gods, he hoped not.  The man tried to trace his way back towards the tree, but to his surprise, he could not find the way. This was a nightmare. The tree was right there, just beyond the hedges! Jazbel was sure he had made the right turns, but, no, they had not passed through. The man checked his map again. There was an extra note scribbled that he had missed before.
"Right means left and left means right?" he read. "North is south... You've got to be joking me."
The man scowled at the paper as he turned his attention back towards the maze and back at the map.  He was growing really grumpy due to exhaustion and wanted to turn back more than anything. But, maybe...

"Come on, Elle," he coaxed as he began to tackle the maze, once more.
Turn right.. no, left! he corrected himself as he started anew.
This whole mistrusting one's eyes was difficult, not to mention felt foolish.

Ellarrah frowned as she listened to Jaz go over the instructions, and to her, the words just all sounded inside out.

She sighed, miserably.
"This is so confusing. Down is up and up is down, left is right and right is left," she gave another disgusted sigh and shook her head.
"Remind me whenever we get out of here to never play with puzzle balls again." That's when she turned to Jazbel, noticing his injured nose and sighed.

"Look, I'm sorry I got us into this mess. If I hadn'tve messed with it, neither of us woulda been here."

Jazbel contemplated over Ellarrah's answer. She was right, there was no point lying to the poor girl. Elle was the one who tempted with the Rednet, who wanted to play darts, who wanted to steal the puzzle from him, and who tossed the damned thing out of the window. They wouldn't have been, truly. Still, Jazbel couldn't find it in his heart to be completely angry at her.
"You're a fool," he said, not entirely unkindly as he ruffled her hair.

The man tapped his bloodied cheek with a small smile.
"Not to fret, lass. I'll get a physician the moment we leave," he promised. "And a round of ale sounds tempting, aye? And sleep. And food...."
The list went on, it seemed. Jazbel's now empty stomach now rumbled just thinking about it.
The next few minutes were spent on Jazbel's part in silence. Map in hand, he followed it diligently through the maze.
Right means left and left means right.
It was madness is what this was. With every twist and turn Jazbel fought the urge to turn back. It got harder and harder with every step. Indeed, Jazbel felt heavier some how, more exhausted. He clung to Ellarrah for support as they made their way through. Finally, they stood in front of a door which looked very much identical to the one they had entered from, hedges surrounding it and all. Jazbel arched his brow and looked at the map.
"This can't be right," he muttered.

"Aye, ale sounds bloody brilliant," she told him, offering him a rare, soft smile. Then her stomach growled to ruin any tenderness in that moment as she groaned. "Yes, and something to eat would be marvelous."

She kept closer to Jaz, letting him lean against her for support. She yawned.
"If I didn't know it, I'd think this place was trying to get us to fall asleep." She yawned again,t hen stared at the door now before them. It looked vaguely familiar. She turned to Jazbel.

"Well, I'd be game for trying it. What's the worst that can happen." she licked her lips and stared at it, before moving forward to open the door.
"Might as well be me that gets eaten by some vortex if I choose the wrong path," she said, and pulled the door open and stepped inside.


This room was well... different...
and by the looks of things...


More complex than the last.

For all around them was nothing but mirrors and doors.

Ellarrah kept looking and looking until she felt dizzy.

"Ah, shit. What the hell kinda room is this!?"

Oh, so it was a new room.
Jazbel felt a load coming off his chest.
So they were moving forward. But by how much?
The man frowned as he followed Ellarrah into the new room. Mirrors and doors surrounded them in a giant circle. Jazbel fumbled with the map, but it offered no advice nor indication that this room even existed.

The man silently folded it up, speaking not a word to Elle about this. He began to pace around the room.
Which one, which one?
The runes were above the doors. There was no way that the two of them could reach them, unless they used a weapon, though Jazbel doubted that was the purpose of the runes. The push-able ones were always within an arm's reach. That seemed to be a consistent rule, at the least. He fumbled with a door's knob.
"Locked," he murmured.
He tried the next, and the next. Nothing.  There were twelve doors in total- Jazbel counted them as he went down the line- and all of them were firmly locked, except the twelfth behind them.

"We're stuck," he said, defeated.
Jazbel glared into the mirror besides him. They unsettled him, these mirrors did. It was as if he was being watched from every angle. Looking at his bloodied and injured face didn't help matters, either. But as he peered into this one, he noticed something was different. There was he, in his clothing, just the way he appeared. But he was something else, too. A boy. A small boy, in a tattered tunic, holding the hand of his mother as they strolled down a forest path. They were part of a caravan, and all was well until frantic shouts gave way. The mother quickly hid the boy in a cart as she drew a knife as bandits jumped out of the bushes...

He had been afraid that day.
Jazbel's eyes were wide, sweat dripping from his brow. He hadn't known it, but as the memory unfolded before his very eyes, he had approached the mirror, reaching out for it.
He remembered the rest of that story vividly. In the end it had been alright. The caravan had fought valiantly and  had outfoxed the bandits. Still, his mother had came out with a few scars that she never truly healed from, again.

Jazbel drew back with a hiss. Why was he remembering this now?
Do they all show memories? he thought, a little embarrassed. He had hoped Ellarrah did not see that. But how would they escape with just memories?
"Next mirror," he weakly stated, pointing to it like a drunkard might.

She looked around, staring at all of the mirrors confusedly. Because she mistrusted this environment, she made extra effort to keep her back pressed near to Jazbel.

"I don't think I like the looks of this room. What could a room involving all mirrors mean?"
She stared up at the runes, but none of the symbols stood out to her.
She stared over at the mirrors, her reflection going on forever.
It was then she found herself distracted..
eyes traveling to a reflection of her from the past..

When she was younger, so young- just a little girl,
laughing and having fun with her brother and his friend-

The one who wanted to marry her.
She shifted uncomfortably, a hand going over her lips at the memory.
They had been running int he field, playing wtih sticks...


pretending to be warriors.

It was only then, whens he backed up into Jazbel she was brought back into reality and she turned to him.

"We need to get out of this room," she replied, huskily. "These are not just showing us our reflections."  She had been trying to avoid looking back at the memories, but stole another glance and saw them all happily running about...

from a world, in a time, long ago.

"I haven't the foggiest idea," he quietly responded.
Jazbel quickly looked around him, though that only lead to a headache and nausea. He grasped his head with one hand as he tried to figure out the situation. There had to be a way out of here. That was logical. This was a room, not a cage with no way out. That was also one of the rules of the labyrinth Jazbel had found- there was always a way to get to the center.
Unless there is none, he cynically thought.

But what was the way out? The doors didn't work, and the mirrors....
He took in a deep breath as he turned to face the second one.
A masquerade party of the Serendian fashion.
Jazbel recognized the palace, the elegant, yet delicate arches. It was the Serendipity Castle that belonged to the royal family. Yes, there they were in their most excellent clothes, spinning. People and beasts alike danced around them, faces hidden in colorful masks raging from beautiful to grotesque. Sometimes both. Ale and wine , he saw, was unlimited. The merry drunkards laughed together over a joke. A masked lady whispered in a musician's ear. A secret. Who were they to spy on?
Jazbel took a step closer.

They spun in a frenzy, too fast for normal songs of court. Something was off, though it took a moment for Jazbel to realize why- they were not all on the ground. Some floated, as if in a dream. Others appeared to sink. He took a step closer. What was beautiful was a lie and defiled. The light began to grow gray as the guests turned blue and yellow, with malady and death.  Masks warped were dropped, revealing the faces of demons. Other masks were kept on; indeed, they seemed part of the face, as if sewed on.... The dancers spun faster now, the lights in their eyes red and cold. Dresses were tattered, beasts were slaughtered, eyes were gouged out and eaten. Some were naked, lingering together in the corners of the crowd.  Blood was spilt, mixing in the ale that flooded the floors but no one cared. They all danced.

Jazbel gasped.
"Elle..." he croaked.
It was ugly and horrible, a nightmare of the the utter ruin of what Jazbel valued.  He could not tear his eyes away, though. Instead, he walked closer and closer towards his nightmare, a hand outreached, the glass rippling at his touch. He could hear their voices, now, their hellish laughter.

OOC: Annnd this is what happens when you think of Salo and Labyrinth at the same time. This doesn't have to be the mirror they slip into though.  Or maybe they slip into Elle's verison? (You said it would be funny if there was ale involved... XDXD)

"Jazzy?" Ellarrah turned to glance at him from over her shoulder, noted the stare in his eyes- though she couldn't quite see what was really in the mirror-
The reflection seemed barred to her.

And she got a creepy feeling about all of this.

It was then she realized she needed to act-

"No, don't touch it, Jaz!" she screamed, dashing over to him just as his hand reached out- he had nearly touched the glass-
her hand gripped onto his..

But then something reached out and latched onto her-
she made a noise, the mirror hand melted around hers, which then sealed around both their wrists-
and before she knew it...

They were pulled into the mirror world.


She groaned, her face laying upon the marble floor.  Then the music stirred her as she lifted her head, dazed to find all those people dancing...
"What the heck is this place?" She blinked.

"Jaz?" she ignored the dancers for now, her eyes quickly searching for her friend. 


OOC: hope it's ok I had mr or mrs. mirror hands snatch them in~

Ellarrah's words of caution fell on deaf ears as the fiery hellish light flashed in Jazbel's golden brown eyes. The cool, silvery mirror substance seemed to melt up Jazbel's arm as it pulled him in. That he was aware of, and very much afraid. Had he gasped? Jazbel did not know, the mirror consumed the sound, and he felt numb. His world was spinning...

The dancers spun before him as he strummed a lute. Had he been here the entire time? No, Jazbel was fairly certain that he had just entered this world, yet here he was, mindlessly  playing the frenzied tune. He felt hot. Different. His clothes were changed. Purple to match his hair, his trousers were loose, a rich velvet. He wore a black tunic under a high collared vest of lilac and gold. Jazbel realized his vision was  somewhat blocked on the sides. He was wearing a mask that covered half his face. In the reflection of the ale as he strummed notes, he saw it was a layered leather purple, blue, and golden mask of a fox.
And suddenly, a sour note was played.
Ellarrah.
He looked up, frantically looking for his companion, but could not see her. Was he here with a companion? Her face was vague in Jazbel's memory- what was real and what was a reflection were blurring, in his mind.  Jazbel tisked. He tried to stop playing, but his fingers kept moving, a will of their own.

Slowly, he began to circle around the dance floor. He didn't dare shout out loud, in fear of captivating the dancers' awful attention.

She couldn't find him!
Of all the bloody luck...
When she moved herself off the floor, she felt herself moving- almost in a trance..
a dream..
limbs moving almost like a dance, to a rhythm, to the music...

She furrowed her brow, confused as to what was going on, and it was only then she got a look at some of the faces as one of the men bowed before her, then rose up to showcase an eyefull of maggots, even one hanging from his rotting nose.

She felt herself cringe, but her hand moved forward, delicately, and she accepted the dance.
She wanted to swear, but she didn't her mind was in a whirl, and so was she as she was lead out into the dance floor, fluttering along with all the other intricacies.


Jazbel might not even recognize her-
a maiden so fair...
a mask of a cat, black glittering whiskers and twirls along the eyes, and sequence and jewels, all studded her hair- her dress, in layers, primped, proper and even a pair of ears adorning her hair that pillowed in fancy patterns and twirls upon her head.

Yes, she looked every bit the same as the rest, though she felt the heat as well..
the mask, as she breathed, was not coming off-
false lips covered her own, only two holes for her nose to breath, her lips barely able to move beneath the mask as she searched frantically..
her vision barred, obstructed as she searched from a world beneath her mask.


"Jazbel?" she had nearly forgotten his name, searching, looking desperately until she was passed off to the next guest, and this one took her hand-
and his hand, was crumbling away to bones.
Lips to her hand peeled away rotten flesh-
and again she felt the fear quiver within her breast...

And out into the room she danced, twirling with the handsome skeleton knight and all the rest-

round around the floor they'd swept!


OOC: I hope this makes sense XD i was having fun with it and also posting in multiple threads at the same time was prolly a bad idea >.>
XD but just poke me if I made a mistake or made anything confusing

It took me a while to figure out what to make Ellarrah, but then I thought a cat mask would be cute! She's kinds feisty like one, almost innocent and wild like one too lol

Jazbel stepped in time, pacing around the dancers like a predictor on the prowl. His eyes scanned the crowd. The man did not flinch as skeletons battered their eyes at him, or a particularly feisty woman seductively wrapped her arms around his waist, attempting to pull him back to join her and her friends. Her breath smelled of death and the skin that was peeling off of her arm killed the mood for Jazbel, perhaps for a while. Instead of bluntly denying her sudden affections, he weakly smiled as he quickly stepped away, trying not to spill what little food he had during the day.

Where was Ellarrah? What did she look like? All was masked here. Jazbel tried to concentrate as his fingers  plucked note after note. He tried to recall the color of her hair, her figure, her height. Surely, she still had all her flesh, muscle, and bone attached! He hoped...
"M'lady!" he said. Nobody heard him, as the dancers spun round the floor.
"Ellarrah!"

A maiden walked past him.  Her hair was a pale red, her dress black  and her skin pale. Jazbel tried to grab her arm, but his lute wouldn't allowed him, so he awkwardly bumped into her. But when she turned around, Jazbel saw the fire in her eyes, the blue in her skin and the way how her lips weren't full as Ellarrah's was. He apologized and moved on.

Jazbel stood on the edge of a fountain as he looked at the dancers. He scanned the crowd a couple times before, finally, he saw what could be her. In the arms of a knight, there was a maiden whose face he could not see, but whose hair was a fiery red, and her skin not so pale. Encouraged, Jazbel jumped down from his fountain and began to dance his way into the crowd, spinning as he played note after note. He commanded the dance with his music, a music he could not control himself. The song slowed to a waltz as he approached the cat-masked lady, panting.
"Ellarrah?"
It had  been a while since he had last danced.

The moment Jazbel approached, the knight tensed in their serenade and moved towards his sword.
Ellarrah, hearing her name- and the voice, so familiar, turned around and blinked her green eyes behind the mask.
"Jazbel?"
She couldn't help but smile, excited to see him. She didn't much care for all this frill, but when she heard the familiar drawing of steel, she turned with a gasp, watching as the skeletal knight pointed his blade at the musician.

Gasping, Ellarrah moved in front of Jazebl, which obstructed the knight's vision of him, and the sword went away, his hand went out, taking ELlarrah again and before she knew it, he was guiding her back out to the dance floor.
Ellarrah found there was not much she could do was she was taken away, her eyes trying to follow to where Jazbel still was as the music played and played.

"Jazbel?!" she managed to call out, desperate to see him again-
at least one familiar, and alive, face amongst the crowd.  She didn't know this dance, didn't know this number, didn't know this world, but somehow her legs kept moving to it, and the knight held to her fiercely as they waltzed and waltzed.

"Jazbel!?"

Where did he go!? The twirling of petticoats and dresses fluttered all around her, making her dizzy.
"Jaz!?" her voice grew more desperate.

Oh, thank the gods, it was her! Jazbel didn't believe he was ever happier to see anybody in his life, ever. He beamed at the sight of her, a smile that was quickly wiped away by the sword being drawn. Jazbel became so white that it was hard to distinguish him from the corpse that swayed next to him. (Incidentally, he was wearing purple and black, too.) Hapless, Jazbel took several steps backwards. He was going to have to help Ellarrah some other way, and then they could try to find their way out, together. Distracted, Jazbel accidently stepped on the foot of a ghost court jester. He made an obscene face at Jazbel before tumbling vaguely upwards towards the ceiling.

At the sound of his name, the musician desperately twirled around, his vision obscured by twirls of satin and velvet.
"Ellarrah!" he called back, his voice echoing in the room.
Jazbel followed the sound of her voice, twirling and sidestepping every ghost, goblin, fawn, and  corpse. He found her again, dancing to the sound of the endless music.
"Ellarrah!" he said again, his tone sharper, more determined.
The jealous knight became livid.
He drew his sword again, and brought it down upon Jazbel.
Desperately, the musician held out his lute as he played one final note, careful to keep his hands away...

The sword swept straight through, dividing the lute in half. A mixed blessing; the thing turned to ash in Jazbel's fingers, but the knight wasn't satisfied, yet. He  swung again, and Jazbel, like a fox, ran.

The crowd was  hushed now in the anticipated sort of way. Their eyes burned with excitement as they watched the knight  chase after the fox. It was a sport to them, watching the dead haunt the living. Make him join our numbers! The hunt was on.

OOC: Poor Jazbel!

IC:

To say she was happy to hear his voice again was an understatement, and the smile she wore was one of relief when she tried to turn to him, her body, numbly breaking of it's spell..

But, oh the knight was quick, sword already drawn and after the musician. Ellarrah gasped and watched him make chase.
"Jazbel!" fear struck her. She knew the man wasn't much of a fighter, and she'd be damned in these soulless dancers were just going to stand by like the tapestries and watch!
Finding another knight near by, she yanked out his sword and swung it their way...

"Hey, skeleton head!" she shouted towards the knight, who, at first didn't regard her until she was nearly upon him, hefting up her skirts and dashing out of tune. It was difficult, as if she had to will her legs to go against the masses, but she found the strength..
and swung...
Sword connecting against the knight's head..
as it knocked it clean off, the skull clattering to the ground.


The body tumbled and for a moment, Ellarrah's face lit up, elated she had saved the day, only to have her features sag the moment the sword was raised and the headless knight began to swing.. at her!

The colorful words breathed from her lips as she dodged and parried the on coming attacks, steel clashing to steel.  The knight was tough, strong even as Ellarrah soon found herself backed against a wall, her own sword smacked from her wrists as she was left, defenseless.
The sword was pointed at her throat, the headless skeleton approached, slowly, one boot in front of the other before he bent down, retreated his head and fastened it back on.

His hollowed eyes stared at her menacingly as he approached, finger bones wrapping through her hair and before she knew it...
His hand was cupping her cheek as his teeth were pressing to her in a kiss!

OOC: Eesh, poor Jaz? Poor Elle!
IC:

Okay, okay, okay.
Jazbel desperately looked around to find something to aid him in his plight. His weapons weren't around, they hadn't transcended into this room. Ah, here was something! Jazbel picked up a  foot long bread knife and a platter off of the concession table he had just nimbly jumped over. This will do. For now. Maybe. But where was his challenger?

Jazbel turned to find Ellarrah try to face the knight with a sword of her own. Jazbel didn't know where she had obtained it, but he was feeling very foolish. He turned towards the table and regarded it for a moment before grabbing a cobwebby candelabra and the ugly table cloth, running towards the two. This much fire didn't do much to burn bones, he knew, but it was Dream Fire, Mirror Fire. It might have some effect- in any case it might do something. Pride swelled within him as he watched Ellarrah knocked off the knight's head, but the effort didn't last long.
His heart nearly drew to a stop as he watched as he held a sword up to Ellarrah's throat. Jazbel shouted in protest , but then skelliton and maiden's lips touched.

Jazbel made a face mixed with horror and disgust.
"That's sick," he spat, appalled.
And terribly rude.
"Hey!" he indignantly shouted at the knight, who turned around.
Jazbel quickly tossed the table cloth over his face and lit it on fire.
"Elle, run!" he said, not quite knowing what was to come next.

Ellarrah was horrified, mortified and thoroughly disgusted-
Which of course, froze in her shock, her eyes as wide as mill wheels.

But then it happened, her gallant 'knight' was there to save her, and the Skeletal Knight was in a roar as fire clung to the clothe and burned rapidly over his head.
Turning to Jazbel, her face exploded into a smile.
"Way to go, Jazzy!" and she rushed right along behind him, smiling all the while.  "You don't need to tell me twice." But her momentary happiness was deterred as the guests within the ballroom began to turn, body jerking, flesh, ripping, maggots busting out of their heads as their hollowed, or death glazed eyes would follow the pair.

Ellarrah watched in horror as the lot of them, mouths gaping open, as if about ready to fall off as they roared with anger.

"Holy shit!" She began to run faster. "Jazzy, we've got to get out of this place and quick! I think we've offended them!"  Turning around, she paled, realizing ALL OF THE GHASTLY GUESTS were all beginning to pursue.
"Jaz!"

Jazbel grabbed Ellarrah's hand, still clinging to the candelabra with his other fist. He nearly fell over faint as he watched the hellish guests turn their attention towards the two of them. The screams of terror and agony pierced his soul.
This isn't happening.
The man picked up speed, following Ellarrah as best he could.
"I KNOW!" he croaked back as she screamed in fright.
His mind was whirling as he tried to figure out a way out. But there was no way out. No windows, no doors. Just a fountain.

Jazbel abruptly turned his attention towards the water. The pool was the only pure thing there. It was also the only idea he had.
"Come on!" he exclaimed, dragging Ellarrah by the hand as he lead the way. Jazbel pushed over a corpse and tumbled over tables, lighting them on fire. Anything to keep the guests from reaching them.  In his panic, he dropped the candle stick holder, the magical fire catching on the ale on the floor. He jumped onto the ledge of the pool, and held out for  Ellarrah's hand.
"Come, m'lady," he said, his voice filled with  urgency.

Jazbel turned to look into the pool. That bloody mask was still on. He tried to rip it off, but it wouldn't budge.
"These stupid things..." he muttered.
They didn't have much time left.

Ellarrah ran, lungs burning from the effort as she paused beside him to catch his breath.
"The fountain? What? Why here!?" she asked, blinking with confusion, then saw him try to peel off his mask and she tried to do the same.
"Ugh,"s he grunted, working at it but the thing seemed glued to her face. "My mask is stuck to my face! UGGGGGH!" she tried again, fingers scratched over the porcelain. "Why is this happening!? What is going on?!"

She dropped her efforts, eyes desperately seeking around the are as flames rose around them-
and the haunting guests began to approach- the knight storming in the forefront.
Ellarrah backed up.
"Oh, Jazzy, I hope you have a plan," she spoke, eyes unable to leave the skeletal knight.

A plan?
What was there to plan, now?
There was nothing, nothing he could do, and Jazbel could only stare into the water...
To see the very room they had came from.
"Look!" Jazbel exclaimed in excitement.
The man held onto Ellarrah's hand as he stepped into the water, tugging her gently to come along with him. But the water did not lead to the other side, as he imagined. It was there.. but  blocked, somehow.

And then he realized. He could see his reflection in the water, but what was there was no the masked man, but the man in the traveler's clothes with borrowed weapons.  It was himself, the one from outside the mirror world, Jazbel knew, but it was more than that. There was something in the way he carried himself, the look in his eye that made Jazbel feel uncomfortable. This was himself, as he really was.  Naked, in a sense, though fully clothed. Jazbel looked up. The knight was almost upon them.  He understood completely, now, what this world was. In a sick, twisted sense, it was his.
"Elle, stay behind me," he muttered. "Look, we can get  back, the door's here. This is just a dream world. This isn't real."
He had to believe it. The man practically growled at the knight who tried to step over the boundries of the fountain.
"You sick bastard," he snapped, "You can't have her!"

Jazbel turned towards Ellarrah.
"What's his problem?"
His mask was beginning to grow loose.

Ellarrah gasped excitedly to see, FINALLY, a way out, but.. how!? Through the water? It didn't make sense!

And then she thought their problems couldn't get any worse as the knight advanced upon them. Ellarrah drew back with another gasp.
"Oh, Angsar's beard, does that guy ever give up!?"

Then she thought over what Jazbel said.
"What do you mean this isn't real?" she looked around, the world wavering slightly and she blinked. "It looks real enough but..." then she breathed out the thought. He had said it.. "..it is like a dream."

But the knight's sword heading straight for them seemed awfully real to her, and it was heading straight for Jazbel.
"NO!" she screamed, pushing him side as the knight swung over them.  The cackle he made with his teeth when he missed sent a shiver through her bones.
She looked to Jazbel, one last time before the skeletal knight grabbed onto her arm and tore her away....

Pushed out of the way, Jazbel fell into the pool. Though he had been standing just moments before, it was as if he was in the ocean. The man felt alone, and perhaps he was, for he was swimming.  He tugged at his mask and it fell off.  He felt himself being dragged into a whirlpool, but he couldn't go yet. Not without Ellarrah. With all of his might, Jazbel swam towards the surface. It was hard to tell, because the whirlpool was all alight and the surface dark, but he swam towards that darkness with all his might.

Jazbel panted as he resurfaced, brushing the water out of his hair. He gasped. Everything looked so different. Everybody was flesh and bone with everything attached and decently covered. They were still all masked, and when they saw that Jazbel was without, they all looked away, as if shielding their eyes from an abomination.  The skeleton knight wasn't  just bones any more- he was a young Serendian lad with golden locks and a jawline to die for. He was quite fetching, though there was a smug look about him that made Jazbel want to punch him. (The way he held Ellarrah wasn't helping matters, either.)

The knight was startled to see Jazbel, but narrowed his cruel fiery red eyes in determination. That was another thing that stayed consistent about the folk here- their dead, hellfire eyes. He charged towards the knight and tackled him. Well, he tried to tackle him. What ended up happening was an awkward hug, which made the knight push Jazbel away with the butt of his sword. Jazbel, however, would not let go.  Gritting his teeth, the man placed a leg against knight's chest as they wrestled for the weapon. 

Things were happening in a whirl-
blending, bleeding, and feathering with light..
and before her stood a man, enchanting and handsome, who charmed her away...

Though it was his eyes, those devil-like eyes that burned from an unknown source that made her stomach grip tightly into a knot.  She had almost been fooled by his presence, and had almost fallen prey to their circumstance, when in the middle of it all, Jazbel, her real knight, came to the rescue!

THough, it was an awkward predicament, she gasped and was pushed away as the knight struggled over the other man.  The once skeletal knight drew back his fist into a punch as Ellarrah drew in a breath.
Moving quick, she gave a yell, pulling forward and grabbing his hand to deflect the punch as she was thrust forward, legs lockign to take in the blow. But the knight then turned on her, and Ellarrah scowled right back at him as she socked him hard, right across the face that sent the knight to his knees.

"Get your fuckin' 'ands offa him! He's my *real* knight!" she chided towards the man.
To the floor, the knight wiped blood off his lips, which poured over the smile and bled into his teeth.
Ellarrah took a step back as the knight rose to his feet, reaching for his sword.
It was only then she noticed...
"Jazbel.. your mask." she said, her lips falling open, a small smile tugging to her cheek..
but it quickly dropped the moment the sword came by, sailing over head.
"Duck!" she called, moving towards Jazzy as she ducked her head, the noise of the sword slicing over head.

Jazbel knew when another man was going to punch, and the knight looked like he was about to put all he had in sending Jazbel back to his Maker. The musician was about to  duck - or take the hit- when Ellarrah suddenly tackled the knight. Jazbel smirked.
"That's my girl," he encouraged, nodding his head in approval as the knight fell to his knees, dropping his sword.

Jazbel moved towards Ellarrah's side. He was about to ask her if she was alright and compliment her on the punch when called him her knight. The man blinked at his companion.
"I'm your knight?" he repeated, baffled.
Fancy that. (Jazbel did rather find the idea alluring.)
There was time to indulge in fantasies, later- he had to take Ellarrah to the door. Jazbel was about to explain, nodding when she commented on his mask, when...

He ducked when instructed. Jazbel tumbled on the ground, and picked up his discarded candelabra, which was miraculously brightly aglow.
"Leave us be!" he demanded, though Jazbel hardly thought it was going to do them much  good. These people certainly weren't alive, not in the conventional sense of things.
I wish I could dream him dead, he grimly thought, but Jazbel doubted that was how things worked, even in a dream-mirror world.

The knight lunged forward again. Jazbel blocked the blow with the  candelabra, and kicked him hard in the privates. Jazbel took the opportunity to wring the sword out of the knight's grasp before  spinning around and stabbing the knight straight through the heart.
"I did warn you," he said, darkly.
Jazbel flinched as the knight's  body began to twitch, his head snapping backwards as his cries pierced the corners of the room. Jazbel stepped backwards, utterly horrified as his screeches were joined with all the others in the room, until their bodies turned to ash and their screams were but echoes.

Jazbel sighed as the sword fell with a clunk to the ground.
Well, he thought. That's that.
Or was it? He frowned and approached the knight's ashes when a queer light caught his eye. He bent down and, after a moment's hesitation, squirmed as he  reached into the pile, brushing aside ash. He picked up a small red stone with a rune carved into it and presented it to Ellarrah.
"Come, let's go," he said, before bashfully smiling.
"Back then," he started to say. "Did you really mean-?"
But he was interrupted as the fountain began to roar, water spilling out as the middle began to twist and glow.

Through all of the mess of confusion, Ellarrah reached up to touch her face, realizing the mask was falling off. Blinking, she reached for it, hands claiming it before tearing it away from her face, givin ga triumphant breath.
"Blood thing," she said, tossing it aside while moving to her hair, raking her hands through it until it turned into a more likeable to her style, pretty mess (half in the curls of a bun and braids, the other half falling in messes around her face.

Though, distracted through the moment and the triumphant Jazbel had caused, she had almost missed his question, being enthralled by the little red stone.
"So was that what as empowering those things?" she said, and at his question, she tilted her head- not quite catching what he meant when the sudden roar of the fountain had her jumping from her skin.

"Jazbel, I think we've upset it," she said, backing away as her eyes widened when the talons of the water rushed towards her, binding itself around her limbs.  She made a noise, but it was almost swallowed as the woman was torn away, dragged inside the ferocity of the fountain where she was spat out into a dark room on the other side...

OOC: I figure they've either beat it and are back in with the mirror, or... ROOMCEPTION,
another room inside the room D:

He narrowed his eyes at her suggestion. The man wasn't quite sure that it was possible to 'upset' a fountain or a room, but he  didn't want to push his luck.
"No, m'lady. That's our way out," he gently suggested, as he  nudged her forward.
All we have to do is jump into the fountain, and...

Well, clearly the room had other plans. His eyes also widened when a wave of water crashed towards him. Jazbel tried to yell for help, but water filled his lungs. He, too, was violently swept away, trashed about in the darkness. All he could think of was Ellarrah, and how easy it had been for her to swipe off that goddamn mask.

--

He woke up to the sound of gently moving water. Jazbel groaned. The ground underneath him felt wet and soft, while the air smelt green and sweet. He slowly opened his eyes to find himself lying by the side of a wide creek, as if his body had been washed up towards this shore. He was in the wood, where lush and wild tall grass grew and the trees green and many. The sky above was clear and blue, and for a moment, Jazbel thought he was free. The man blankly stared up, narrowing his eyes as the sun's light blinded them. No, he couldn't be. They were still in the labyrinth, Ellarrah and him. There was no wind, there were no birds... They couldn't be free, because the lady had said they weren't.
Not until we arrive at the burial room.
There was something cold in the palm of his right hand. He opened it to find the red gem.
"Heh," he muttered, not quite sure what to make of it as he rose to his feet.
"Ellarrah?" he called out, looking around him.
Where was that lass?

OOC: YOu can guess which option I choose. :P

Water, water, everywhere....
The sound was deafening, it's sound pumping against her ears..
and all around her skin it remained, suffocating and tight...
The bubbles tickled as she moved, and when her eyes opened she gasped, a large bubble escaping from her mouth as she took in water and moved, panicked that she was submerged within a murky world...

ALl she could think of what one thing: Find a way to breath..
So she did, fighting against the pull of the waters until suddenly, she gasped, breaking through the water, tossing her hair back as large gobs of water splashed about and spilled around her body.
Chokingly, she fell to her hands and knees against the shores of the stream and began to spit out the waters in her lungs.
After a moment, she wiped at the back of her lips and looked around, shivering.
It was only then she noticed the stream behind her-
but it appeared too shallow for her to have drowned in it.
Just as she began to wonder what the hell was going on,  she noticed the eerie silence and slowly rose off the ground.


Her green eyes continued to scan the area until they fell upon a dirt ziggurat protruding from the ground. 
"What the hell," she found herself walking into a low hanging vine as she made a face and brushed it aside, and hastily made her way towards it then froze, realizing she was without her companion. Turning to glance over her shoulder, she stared back towards the water and spoke the phrase, "Jazbel?"
Her eyes continued to search as she headed back, eyes wandering up and down the water source...


but..
she had seen nothing.

Looking around again, she shivered, despite there being no wind and slicked her wild wet hair away from her face and she called again, "Jazbel!?" her voice echoing across the water and woods as her eyes continued to desperately search for him.
Had they been separated? Fear gripped her heart.
Was he ok?
She prayed he had not been stuck back there with those ghouls. Continuing forward, she shuddered at the thought.


She continued down the way, calling his name and sighing, feeling defeated after a time as she shook her head. She really didn't like being left alone in this strange world.

But then, she heard it.

She perked up.
Was that someone calling her name?
"Jazbel?" she looked around, blinking.  Then she stepped forward, and called louder, "Jazbel!?" her voice echoed into the trees, causing a stir of winds that chilled her, before the world grew silent again.

This was becoming a pattern that Jazbel was most certainly not growing fond of. He trudged through the woods, still a little disoriented. Jazbel heard his name being shouted, which made him smile.
"Ellarrah!" he shouted back, his voice echoing through the trees.
He abruptly looked over his shoulder, just in case he wasn't being followed or anything. Though he heard nothing, Jazbel was paranoid. He quickened his pace, not really paying attention to where he was going until he accidently almost ran straight right into the lady.
"Elle!" he happily cried with a relieved laugh.
"There you are, lass. You're not hurt or anything, are you?"

The man narrowed his eyes as he saw something towering in the distance. It was an oddly shaped building, something he had never seen the likes of  before. The  dirt ziggurat rose into the sky, and, unless his eyes betrayed him, Jazbel saw  trees growing from its soil.
"Don't tell me we have to go there?" he said, wrinkling his nose.
It looked far, and after all the excitement he just had, he didn't fancy taking that much of a stroll. Or stairs. 

"Oh thank the Gods, ugh, I was beginning to get worried this stupid puzzle world was to tear us apart again." she wrinkled her nose. "I hope there ain't much left to this stupid thing. I'm bloody hungry, tired and irritable, and even a little repulsed after what happened in that last room." She blanched, thinking about the kiss from the skeletal knight.  "I'll be having nightmares for weeks." She groaned and finally looked to where Jazbel was staring.

She took a few steps to stand at his sides, hands to her hips.
"I'm afraid your thoughts might be right," Ellarrah said, frowning.  "It's a giant icon made of dirt.  I wonder if there's a way into it or if we'd have to dig through that thing." Her frown deepened. "Ansgar's balls, if i have to get wriggle around in a labrynth full of dirt and worms in a closed in space so help me..." shaking her head she folded her arms over her chest. "Then I might not go in there but.. who knows, maybe they'll make nice large halls like in that last puzzle room,"s he added, trying to be optimistic. After all, if they were forced to travel through narrow halls and corridors, she didn't know if she could handle it.

"Well, come on, it's along trek over there," Ellarrah said with a grunt. "We'd best put a move on it. Come on, love," she gestured for Jazbel to follow as they headed towards the ziggurat.
"Let's see what other stupid plan this puzzle has in store for us now."  She though tit over as they walked. "Perhaps we'll get out of here by dinner time,e h? Think of all the ale we could be drinking." SHe made a noise, then a scowl. "But Gods, you don't think the place is full of spiders or anything do ya? I hate bugs. THose wriggly little things can stay right where they are. And worms, "S he made another face. "So slimy and foul. Reminds me of this boy I met once. He kissed like a worm, I swear he did." She was nervous, and rambling- but then again, each room proved to have some sort of catastrophe waiting for them-

and when they made it to the center...

Then what?

Would they have to make good on their promise?
After they'd escape, would they have to Journey to the Fell?

"Jazbel," she said after a time.  "What do you know about the Fell?" She knew they had this conversation before, though briefly- but...
Even after they survived a maze like this...
and their only salvation came from traveling to some cursed place, well...
it did not bode well with her the more she thought about it.
Part of her believed the place was merely myth..
but here she was, trapped inside a puzzle box.

"I'm just a bit skeptical over all this,"s he began, sighing. "That weird statue lady wants us to go to the Fell. It seems simple enough but..." She turned to him. "This whole place is just weird and it creeps me out.  To think that if we survive this and a being that lives here wants us to travel there.... perhaps we're biting off more than we can chew. I mean, think about it, I bet this puzzle sphere was made there- and we now have no other choice but to travel there..." then she paused, biting into her lower lip. "Do we, Jaz?" Really, was there no other choice?

Jazbel nodded as Ellarrah spoke. He didn't want to say it out loud, but he was afraid of the same thing. Jazbel smiled as she complained about her situation.
"Same here, lass," he replied, his stomach rumbling to prove his point.
The man had been ignoring his stomach, but it was getting harder to do, though the pain from his face allowed for enough distraction from it. He frowned as Ellarrah seemed to appear frightened, a pit forming in his stomach. Though she did not say what she was thinking about, he knew. 

He smiled in amusement as she pouted.
"After all we've been through, you're worried about dirt and worms?" he teased as he began to make his way down the forest path.  Jazbel wondered if she had quite heard him. She was rambling as they walked now, chattering about food (he did wish she would stop, it only made it worse) and bugs. He laughed out loud as she described how a boy kissed her like a worm.  Kisses both foul and sweet, Jazbel never thought of describing them in such a manner, though he supposed, now that he thought about, a memory or two of a lass who did. It was a shame, really, but Jazbel fondly remembered that she was really quite pretty.

His mind wandered off as he recalled some fine memories, when he was around Ellarrah's age.  He realized that his life had more or less stayed the same, if not the quality of his living better than it had been before. That and in all his years, he's never quite been on an adventure like this. His thoughts were interrupted when Ellarrah asked him of Fell. Jazbel frowned at the question. Aye, he knew of it. Rumors and tales, and had even seen it safely from a far, though not far enough in his opinion.  Jazbel bowed his head at the gravity of her questions.
"Don't put it like that, m'lady," he urged when she questioned their survival. They've gotten this far already, Jazbel was certain that they'd be able to get out... he hoped. But she was right. Did they really have no choice?  Was there another way? He supposed they could ask his client, but he feared that would be short of suicide.
Not that this mission we are about to accept will be.

"Fell is an ancient city, its ruins in the north," he explained.
"It's not an easy place to get to.  I've only seen it once. Long ago, some sort of earthquake caused the city to fall to rubble, but some half structures  and even whole buildings are still there. They were beautiful, once, but over time, magic has sort of eroded the structures. They're warped and smooth, somehow. "
He offered her a humorless smile.

"They say its magic curses mages, like an illness. Still, folk like you and I can't be harmed by its chaotic magic. You needn't worry.  If we must venture there, then I assure you the land and its magic will be the least of our problems."
He said this halfheartedly.  Despite knowing this, he had grown up with a fear, a wariness of that place.

Ellarrah sighed and drew a bit closer towards Jazbel.
"I hope you're right."

She grew quiet after a time, the path, still seeming long yet before they knew it, they had reached the wide expanse of land,  a great, green valley that lay before the massive structure.

Taking a few steps forward, Ellarrah paused to examine the thing.
"It looks as if there's a door to it," she said, pointing up to a gaping hole in the front. "Thoguh it seems covered by something. Vines, I suppose." she said, then began to move forward. "Gods, this place looks ancient." She said, and as she approached she planted her hands to her hips and craned her neck to look up at it, shielding her eye from the artificial sun.


She gave a whistle.
"And look at all of these steps we need to climb."
And without another word, she merely took a seat upon them and gave a little sigh of disgust.
"Ugh, I need to rest up a bit before we go in." she closed her eyes and went quiet for a moment, then slowly opened them again. "Jazbel..." her voice became serious a moment.  "I won't lie to you since we've been through a lot of crazy nonsense since we've entered this place, but I'm really not getting a good feeling about this." She held onto her stomach, she felt tense and almost numb-

And for alls he knew, they could just be feet away from their freedom.

"Ever since we entered this place it's... I dunno how to explain it," she shook her head. "Just nothing feels or is right, you know?"

The walk was a quiet one. Jazbel found it mildly pleasant. They weren't being attacked as far as he knew, and the false sunlight that shone on them  and the false dirt beneath their feet felt as if they were back outside. Maybe they were, and this was all just some sort of cruel joke.
But where are we, then? Jazbel thought.
He had never in the life of him heard of such a wood with such a structure planted in the middle of it, before. Soon enough, they had reached the entrance.

Jazbel  joined Ellarrah's side, his neck aching as he bent it backwards to look all the way up.
"Whoe," he exclaimed with a sigh, shielding his eyes as well.
It had looked far up from a distance, but now the stairs seemed  to stretch for miles  and miles. 
"I'd rather not," he retorted as Ellarrah commented on the amount of stairs. 
Jazbel rubbed his lower back just at the thought of climbing them. He eagerly sat beside her, his shoulders slumping as he relaxed. It felt as if it had been ages since he rested his wary feet. Last time they had tried, they were attacked by those globs. At the memory of those leeches, he suddenly jolted around, anxiously looking about him, but found nothing. Jazbel sighed and kicked off a boot, rubbing his toes. He was getting blisters.

"Hmm?" he replied as Ellarrah began to speak, her tone solemn.
Jazbel listened quietly to her plight, scratching his neck.   He didn't blame her. He felt the same,  that was for sure.
"Yeah, nothing doesn't," he agreed.
Jazbel looked at her thoughtfully before turning to face her so that his eyes were leveled with hers.
"Listen, m'lady," he slowly said.
"This is possibly one of the most unnatural place to be in of all of the earth, and that's our misfortune,  true.  But there's a method, and we've done well so far. There's a way out, and we're going to find it, lass. Besides, not all is false. You're real, as am I, aye? As far as I know."
He ruefully grinned at this as he pinched her cheek and ruffled her hair.
Hardly can believe we've only just met.

He was deeply worried, too. That woman from before had said that their freedom  would cost them. He did not know what it would be for certain just yet, but if they weren't careful, their wits were surely on the line. Jazbel felt his mind thinning due to exhaustion.
I can't go on much further, and neither can Ellarrah, poor thing.
He looked up towards the stairs with a new found determination.
"Two minutes, do ya think, and then we'll give it a go?" he coaxed.
Any time more and he feared that he'll just fall dead asleep and never wake up.

"Ouch!" Ellarrah made a face and batted his hand away as he moved to ruffle her hair. "Hey- whadya do that for? Now my hair looks about as messy as my brain." She sighed and ran a hand through it, attempting to fix it but giving up after a few wild strands fell across her face.

Then, at his suggestion she turned to him with a weak smile.
"Two minutes to take on Hell, eh? Sure seems like that's what is laid before us." She sighed and looked up at the stairs again.

"Jazbel, how many more rooms do you think are left?" she asked, her tone growing serious again. "I don't know how muhc more of this place I can endure, I mean if you weren't here..." She shook the thought away. "I used to think I was clever. But I knew I was never the brightest. Just street wise, you know?" SHe shook her head again. "But I guess they don't teach you puzzle balls in school, eh?" She forced a smile as she got to her feet.
"I should quit my blathering already. We've got some stairs to climb." She gestured. "After you. Let's get up those stairs and find a way to get the Hell outta here."

Jazbel chuckled as Ellarrah protested before leaning back, cradling his head in his hands. 
"Aye, to Hell it is," he muttered.
He attempted to sound cheerful, but it just came out sounding tired. Jazbel frowned as he stared up at the trees, listening to Ellarrah's questions. When she mentioned him, he turned his face to look up at hers. It rather hurt and felt awkward, listening to her put herself down some. She was brighter than she offered herself credit for, despite her stubbornness. Plus Jazbel wanted to tell her that if it had not been for her courage and skill with a sword, he doubt he would have been alive.

He nodded as Ellarrah made a weak attempt at joking, watching as she rose to her feet, though he wanted to savoir every moment of rest he got. Jazbel waved a hand as  she gestured for him to go first.
"All right, all right," he said with a sigh as he slowly got up and rolled his shoulders.
"Let's get this over with."

---

Four hundred and thirty... Four hundred and thirty one...
Jazbel was panting, his hair plastered against his forehead.
"Almost there," he said, mainly to himself than to anybody.
What he would give for some wine! 
True enough, after completing all four hundred and forty six stairs, there was the circular door  concealed by a wall of vines. Using the knife he had on him, Jazbel began to cut through the vines. It was difficult work. They had  multiplied over the years and had grown strong. Finally, after spending a while hacking away, enough of the door was visible to see some sort of key hole. Except, it wasn't a key hole, but a round place holder.  Jazbel frowned.
"I wonder," he muttered as he reached into his pocket.

He placed the jewel inside. Suddenly, the jewel began to glow. Runes on the door began to light up. Their light shone through the vines as the door began to furiously rumble as it moved aside, the vines crumbling to the floor.

Ellarrah breathed heavily as she got to the top, but somehow managed to numb herself of the throbbing in her legs and feet as she gave a shout of relief and collapsed onto the ground beside the entrance.
"Thank Angsar!" she sighed, then threw back her sweaty hair and turned to observe Jazbel making work of the vines.
Smiling, she raised herself off the steps and approached his side, helpin ghim peel away the vines where they could

Whne it revealed the hole, she blinked and touched her finger over it.
"Is this a bloody key hole- Angsar's balls! If we have to climb back there-" She growled, but then when the rock fit, her face grew quiet and tight as her eyes widened.
Holding her breath, she stood back and watched the thing rumble open, bracing herself incase some peculiar thing were to attack but...


Nothing.

Nothing but darkness await them.
She grabbed a nearby torch and held it forward, flames flickering silently.
"I suppose it's now or never, eh?" she said, forcing a smirk. "Come on. Let's get this dirt temple outta the way so we can get back to the Inn and sleep until tomorrow."
She moved to step inside.
"An ale!" she added, her voice echoing into the depths of the temple.


It was dark and dank inside, smelling of the earth, and although cramped, it was at least wide enough for them to walk through as her boots moved softly across the ground.
"What do you think we'll find in here?" she asked quietly, eyes peering around, but most of what she saw was mudbrick walls and recesses with unlit torches.
She began to light them as she went, hoping it would at least keep track of their way.
"Hopefully these things won't burn out," she muttered. "Lest we need to find a way out, we could get lost without their light."

"Agreed," said Jazbel as Ellarrah lead the way into the darkness. 
The man frowned as he felt the walls. In the dim light of the outside, they could make out the shape of torches.
"I don't know what we'll find in here," he replied.  "Hopefully  that  accursed burial room. Or the way out."
He took an unlit torch and lit it by using the flame from Ellarrah's.
"Yeah," he echoed.
The temple was oddly warm inside, humid and damp. Jazbel jumped as he felt drops of water fall on him from cracks on the ceiling. Where it came from, he hadn't the slightest. He wondered if it rained in this dreamland.

The hall turned towards the right, so Jazbel took a step forward.... And the tile underneath his foot pressed down.  Something whizzed through the air and buried itself into Jazbel's torch handle.  The man observed it, sweat rolling down his brow.  A large dart had nearly went all the way through.
"Ellarrah, be careful where you step!" he warned, his eyes scanning the floor tiles.
Were these traps scattered throughout the entire temple?
Carefully, Jazbel took off a boot and threw it onto a tile three feet away from him. It was safe. He motioned for Ellarrah to follow as he hopped onto it.


OOC: Jazbel Orarca and the Temple of Doom?

OOC: the temple of ROOMCEPTION

IC:

Ellarrah kept close, but when the dart came out, she gave a gasp and turned, her eyes going cross-eyed when she stared at the bloody thing in his torch.

Releasing her breath,s he muttered, "I'd say. That dart coulda went through one of our heads!"
She then jumped when Jazbel threw his boot.

"Won't you need your boot, love?" she said, almost teasingly as she moved forward, retrieving it and twirling it between a finger. "Though this does make for some interesting ways to figure out if there's a trap ahead." She said, smirking and it appeared as if she was about to hand him his boot back, only to throw it onto the next tile.
"Well, that one's at least safe." She said, stepping forward, her eyes still ever observing the area before she paused, realizing...

"Awww, bloody hell.." She frowned, staring at the wall before them.
"A dead end!?"

She approached hte wall, slowly moving her torch before it to study it before sighing and turning around back to Jazbel.
"Sure looks like an ordinary wall to me,"s he said, not realizing a vine began to slip out from the wall's bottom edge, as it began to snake around, entwining tightly around her boot and creepy up her leg.

"Why don't we try one of those other hallways we passed back there?" she suggested, though as she moved to leave, her foot got caught and she nearly fell over, the torch falling from her hands as she slipped-
"What the bloody hell!?" and then a vine snapped out, snatching onto her wrist and snapping her hand against the wall as Ellarrah gave a cry of alarm. And before she knew it, all four limbs were being roped up by the vines as they pressed her body against the wall as thousands of vines began to break through the dirt, wrapping swiftly around her body.

Gasping, she moved frantically and called out to her companion, "Jazbel! Hel-" though her words were muffled the second a vine sealed over her lips and closed tightly around her throat.

Jazbel didn't smile at Ellarrah's tease.
"This is serious," he protested, though he reached out for his boot, anyway.
Jazbel slumped his shoulders and shook his head as Ellarrah tossed it, again, and hopped on ahead. He should have known better. Jazbel hopped onto the next tile after Ellarrah as he retrieved his boot. The man frowned. A dead end?
"What do you mean?" he demanded, his heart sinking.
Was there another path?  They'd have to go back...

Jazbel frowned at the wall. She was right, it did look ordinary, but something about it bothered him. Perhaps it was because there was a WALL in their path, instead of something useful. He narrowed his eyes, deep in thought.
"Yeah, maybe," he said with a nod as Ellarrah suggested they go back. They might as well.
Jazbel was about to turn around when the woman tripped.
"Ellarrah!" he barked in alarm as the vines wrapped around her body.
"Damnit all," he said through gritted teeth as he ran to the wall, knife and torch drawn.  Jazbel absolutely refused for this to be the end! He certainly did not 'kill' the undead to be defeated by a couple of weeds.  He hopped over a vine that shot towards his feet as he furiously began to hack away at the bonds restricting Ellarrah. Unfortunately, as they snapped one by one, they began to curl around his limbs.

Jazbel stretched as far as he could as he set the vines a couple of feet away from his side on fire.  Jazbel shuddered as they screeched, tossing about and whittering away as they fought to keep their captives.
"Ellarrah, work with me, here," Jazbel pleaded, coughing as the smoke filled the air.
Just then a vine wrapped itself around his neck and pulled him backwards with such a force that the man fell unconscious. The flames were coming closer.

OOC: I would have replied sooner but Tropic Thunder was distracting me and it's hard to write action when an action movie is distracting me with it's brilliance XD

IC:
Once her mouth was free, she gasped for air.
"Jazbel!" she didn't know how many times she could shout his name with elation that day.  Wriggling about, she tore off the remaining vines from her body.
"I'm trying to help. I-" but found herself gasping the moment he was jerked away and fell to the ground, unmoving beneath the growing flames.
"Jazbel!" she screamed. And ho w many more times would she shout his name in that manner, too?
Growing frantic, the weeds did not stop latching onto her as she struggled, growing frustrated and desperate before she jerked forward, tearing them away with such an angered force that she toppled over, nearly spilling into the flames herself.
Her head then jerked up, seeing Jazbel resting on the other side of the flames.
"Jaz!" quick to her feet, she shielded her face and lept over the flames, scooping him up into her arms as she grunted.
"Jaz!" she let out a breath. Gods, he was a lot heavier than he seemed. She then heard the squeals as the vines tried to reach for them, but the flames kept them at bay.
Gritting her teeth, she hefted Jazbel into her arms and dragged him quickly away.


After returning near the beginning, again, she threw herself and Jazbel onto the ground with a groan and tossed a hand over her face, feeling helpless and wanting to cry.
She needed a moment to compose herself, before turning onto her knees and looking down at Jazzy.

"Jaz?" she called his name again, staring down at his motionless face. "Jaz?" her voice grew more strained as tears threatened her eyes.
"Come on.."s he begged. "Don't leave me here in this place by myself." she shook him lightly. "Wake up!"
Looking around, for something, anything, she released a helpless whimper before turnign to him again, shaking his shoulder.
"Jaz!?" What could she do!?

It was only then, as frustrated tears began to blurr her vision and hot tears fell onto his face that something caught her eye...
a bowl of water!
So it mighta been sitting on  some important looking gold pedestal, she didn't care as she reached for it, scooping it up before dumping it over his head.
"JAZZY!?"s he said, dropping like fire to her knees after discarding the gold bowl carelessly, as she sat over him, hoping he'd just wake up!


OOC: Hoping this post makes sense XD
I really shouldn't multi-task when I post >>
:T

OOC: Haha, it's okay. I'm kind of between  reading and this so that's why im being slow. BTW if you don't know what the hell i'm doing, that's okay. I'm just winging it. the oddities follow.

IC:

He had hit his head really hard. Jazbel was dully aware of someone frantically calling his name. Of being moved. It hurt his ears, and the man didn't have the strength to wake up, not completely. And then water was splashed on his face. His eyes bolted open.
"Elle?!" he exclaimed, confused.
What was on his face?!
Jazbel saw an empty bowl besides him and touched his face.
It didn't hurt.
"My nose," he muttered, wiping some of the blood away, patting it.
Nothing.
It's not broken anymore.

Jazbel turned towards Ellarrah, both elated and terrified.
"Where'd you find this?" he needlessly asked when, suddenly, his consciousness was seized.
There before him was a figure draped in a rope like the ocean. It didn't quite sit still, waves rolling in at the hem. Jazbel could have sworn he heard the water. It was impossible to tell if they were male or female, but it was clear from the glare of their bright blue eyes that they were less than content. 
"That was very rude," Jazbel huffed in it's voice as  he turned to face Ellarrah. 
It blinked at Jazbel.
"Who are you?" the man weakly asked, aloud. He was visibly talking to himself, and the only way to tell the difference was that his expression seemed to change, as simple as that.
The figure scowled, using Jazbel's face.
"I'm a servant to this tomb," it replied. 
"Like the djinn?!"
Jazbel spoke too soon. If it was possible for water to pale, the person in his head did, and he certainly blanched.
"No," he said quietly. "Not like her. But I can take you to her."

Ellarrah only stared at Jazzy, her face brightened as she realized.
"Hey, you're nose!" She couldn't help but giggle. "And here I was admiring how charming you looked with that swollen nose of yours, Jazzy." She couldn't help but flirt and tease him- a nervous twitch she did, but one some what(?) honest none the less!

But then, there he was.. suddenly talking to himself and making goofy faces.
Ellarrah's lips flattened into a line as her brows furrowed.
"Jazbel, what the hell are you blathering on about? You sound positively bonkers!" she scolded.  "And if those god damn vines knocked you silly, I'm going to go back there and burn the whole lot of them- maybe this entire place down I will!"

OOC:If it makes it easier, I'll make the diety's speech italics :P He likes to talk a lot....
IC:

"Jazbel?" said the man, as if disgusted by the sound of it.
"That's my name," he dully replied to himself.
Jazbel's shoulders slumped.
"I see," he said in an aloof matter as he rose to his feet.
"My name, miss-"
"Ellarrah."
Jazbel rolled his eyes.
"Miss Ellarrah. My name is Eoki, a diety of Fell."
Jazbel was surprised by this.
"You're a god?" he asked. Jazbel smirked.
"But how come you're afraid of that djinn?"
Jazbel scowled.
(Jazbel watched as Eoki's robes expanded, the waves moving even more furiously.)
"I'm not a god,  per say, and this is my duty," he  painfully explained, as he clenched the bowl. "Now do you want to find your way out or not?!"

"Yes," Jazbel eagerly replied, turning towards Ellarrah.
"Eoki, whoever you are, just give me a minute... No, Elle, I'm not crazy. I don't think I am."
He frowned as he observed the bowl.
"I think we were supposed to do something but splashing the water in my face messed it up, somehow."
"It did."
"I told you to shut up."
He sighed when, suddenly, his body began to move against his will.

Jazbel found himself walking down one of the paths that he and Ellarrah had chosen not to take.
"What are you doing?!" he asked, alarmed.
"Walking."

Ellarrah now was thinking she was going crazy.
"Ugh, all of this talking to yourself, but not yourself is making me think I'm the one going nuts." She grimaced, but tried to swallow what was going on. "So what did we mess up, if I might ask?" she spoke to Jazbel, or rather asked Eoki, but she couldn't tell, nor comprehend any of this. It was just too much!

"Hey, where are you going?" She called over to Jazzy, and jogged to catch up to his side.  "Are you like possessed now or something, or .. partially posessed?" Ellarrah had to wonder, scrunching her nose.

"And why is a diety of the Fell helping us? I mean.." She gave Jazzy a ounce over then grabbed him by the shoulders. "Are you sure you're alright? Possessed and not just gone crazy because of that bump on your head?"

Jazbel shook his head at Ellarrah's question, his face flushing. This was highly embarressing. He felt like a puppet. Though Ellarrah tried to hold him back, he kept moving.
"He's all alright, I assure you," Eoki grumbled in Jazbel's voice.
"I don't know what happened, either. I was taking a very long nap and then you dumped me on his face. These things happen."
Jazbel didn't feel very  convinced.
"Happen?" he repeated with a scowl.

Eoki smiled with Jazbel's face, warping it into a smirk.
"I don't think it'll last for long. Once we get to the Fountain, it'll all sort out. For now, this is actually pretty convenient."
"Not for me," Jazbel grumbled.
He dropped the subject, turning towards Ellarrah.
"Lass, try not to touch anything, least I turn into a toad next," he said in a half joking manner.
"I'll guess we'll just have to follow... me."

They walked down a passageway full of pictures until finally they arrived at what seemed a dead end. Jazbel frowned at the wall. It was of Fell, he supposed, though of a floating, drunkard party in the rivers, both beautiful and chaotic.
"It's a dead end," he needlessly pointed out.
Eoki chuckled with Jazbel's voice.
"It's not."

Jazbel found himself chanting ancient words waving his hand over the golden bowl. Suddenly, water sprouted fourth from it, and the waves in the picture began to move and churn, leaking out from the walls. The water whirled and wrapped around the company, it's colors both as if real, yet it had the vividness of paint. Jazbel held the bowl in front of him, speaking in a tongue that he was sure sounded like a mix between a dolphin chirping and the gulps of a fish. The water formed a door before them, neatly against the wall. Jazbel stared, dumbfounded.
"Whoa," he said, blanching.
Eoki smirked with his face.
"I can do many things," he said with Jazbel's voice as together, they opened the door.

Ellarrah honestly didn't have trouble keeping up, but it damn sure seemed like it as she tried to keep up with his long legged strides.

"Sort it all out? I just gave Jazbel two personalities, and I'm being told some fountain will fix this?" she studied 'Jazbel' and.. Jazbel as she blinked, biting her tongue as she tried to listen and comprehend the dual conversation. It was odd, but the second entity within him had a different flavor of voice, which, she suspected, was this Eoki thing.

At Jazbel's comment about not touching anything, she grew agitated.
"Well, if I weren't so bloody scared stiff about crazy vines and skeletal men trying to kiss and kill us this entire time, I might be more rational in thinking. But who would have thought I'd dump some Fellish creature onto your face. The bowl was just there, and you?" She made a face. "You were jusy laying there doing nothing! I was terrified I'd be stuck here by myself with more of these crazy things! What did you expect me to do?"

THen, as they proceeded, she gasped when they approached a wall.
"Ugh!" She ran a hand through her wild red locks and would have made a smart comment about this all, when strange things began to happen-
Jazbel was speaking in a strange tongue, appearing as if it came from some whole other world as her eyes went wide. SHe gasped and drew away, shielding her face as if the painted swirls of color might blind her, but found herself staring at them, completely and totally memorized by it.

"A door," Ellarrah whispered, then saw Jazbel and Eoki approach. Her eyes went wide.
"Hey, wait for me!" she said, tagging behind at their heals.  THe last thing she wanted to do was find herself alone!

Jazbel smiled as Ellarrah hurried along besides him.
"Of course," he said, reaching out for her arm.
He wouldn't dream of leaving her behind.
"I don't understand what he means, either. About the fountain."

Though it was dark, didn't need torches. The golden bowl lit up the area, illuminating a pavilion in white and silver stone in the middle of a small island surrounded by a lake. In the middle, Jazbel could make out the shape of a tomb and a pedestal with something on it, though he could not make out quite what. They stepped across stepping stones, large, round, and flat ones that spiraled around the island. The water was still, the air calm. Jazbel did not know where they were; the lake was surrounded by hills, it seemed. Stars illuminated the skies. There were no patterns that Jazbel recognized.
"Is this the way to the burial room?" he whispered for no reason.
"Yes."
He turned towards Ellarrah, baffled.
"I don't remember any of this on the map."
Jazbel found himself chuckling.
"You'd trust the word of one who died before they reached the center?," Eoki asked in Jazbel's voice, amused.
"They were clever, but they did not find the Key as you did."
"The key?" Jazbel asked himself, but then he remembered the red stone.

He quietly stepped into the pavilion. The burial room was quite different than what he had imagined. Jazbel was already tense to begin with, but he found himself squaring his shoulders, crossing his arms, and planting his feet in the ground.
"She and I are not great friends," he hissed, glaring at the lamb that sat on the pedestal.
Jazbel didn't have to ask this time who 'she' was.
The water in the bowl stirred as the  djinn appeared before them, both beautiful and terrible.
She stared down at them with eyes as deep as the night with a smirk rising to her lips.
"Welcome," she said majestically with a hint of venom as she glared at Jazbel.
"You brought one extra."
"A pure accident, I reassure you."
She huffed at that.
"It matters not," she snapped. "Have you two considered my offer?"

"Clever is one way of putting it," Ellarrah replied sarcastically, and kept close to Jazbel, not trusting this stupid puzzle sphere world with her life.  She stared around at the room, and looked up at the stars. "They just appear... fake.." She said, frowning a bit since she knew not why she had that feeling, but continued to move forward until they all had stopped.
She started over at Jazbel, still having a conversation with himself when he mentioned the djinn.
"Ugh, I suppose it's about time we saw that woman again," she griped and before she knew it, there she was.

Ellarrah felt herself tense, staring up at the woman as she held her tongue.
But not for long.

"Of course we considered it!" Ellarrah barked. "We survived this stupid puzzle world, didn't we? We got that blasted key, almost killed ourselves along the way, but yeah.." she huffed. "We're here and we're ready to talk a bargain!"

The djinn's eyes sparkled darkly, almost with mirth as she looked at Ellarrah.
Ellarrah grew uneasy, shifting her weight before her.

"Well, what are you waiting for? What do we have to do in order to get the hell out of here?"

OOC: RWAH. Okay btw I know i've been slowing down for the past week. I'll post when i can, but it's my last week home so it's been busy ^.^;;;

IC:

Jazbel didn't appreciate the anticipation much, either. He glared at the djinn in such a manner that surprised himself, though the man did not know if it was just his frustrations, or that of Eoki.  He wondered vaguely what their rift was, but when he mentally asked the diety or spirit or whatever he was, Eoki ignored him. The djinn smiled smugly.
"Jazbel Orarca and Ellarrah," she boomed.
The djinn glared at Jazbel.
"And Eoki, fallen water and knowledge diety of  Fell," she added, a hint of amusement in her voice.
"Welcome. You already know of my conditions, I need not repeat them. But in order to make sure they are met... Give me your hearts."

Jazbel took a step backwards.
"That's cruel, Asmoda," he found himself saying.
She shrugged, bored.
"I considered taking the woman's tongue, or sword and the man's eyes or music..."
With each passing word, Jazbel felt his heart clutch.
"... but none are as efficent. To have their hearts, they'll be bound to my quest."
The djinn named Asmoda smiled wickedly.

Jazbel shot Ellarrah a look, his throat dry. He didn't like this option very much.
"Her expression almost turned kind when she observered Jazbel's blanched expression.
"But if you give me your hearts," she explained, "You'll be immortal. You cannot die-"
"- But not fully alive," Eoki grumbled through Jazbel's voice.
Asmoda seemed hardly fazed by this.
"They won't die," she repeated. "But if you give your hearts, your will will bend my way. You WILL take me to Fell."
"But the weapon," Jazbel pointed out, "You said-"
The djinn nodded.
"You're an observent one," she said, her tone suductive.
Jazbel shuddered.

Asmoda gave a thin, annoyed smile.
"The Labyrth was made with powerful magic. Any weapon with power to match will do."
Jazbel frowned at her vague reply.
"That's not entirely helpful," he said.
The djinn scowled at his cheeky answer.
"Nevertheless, you WILL find one," she said.

Jazbel turned towards Ellarrah, his shoulder slumped.
"What do you think?" he whispered.

OOC: You're fine! I know people are busy! It's the holidays C:

IC:
Ellarrah's gaze remained upon Asmoda, never wavering until the request was made. And her jaw dropped.

"You've got to be shitting me!" she bared her teeth. "What do you bloody mean we've got to give up our hearts!?" Even as she listened, well, she felt her heart sink and her stomach twist into a cold , dry not.  Her nostrils burned with acid as she fought wretching. Groaning, she turned to Jazbel, her eyes wild.

"The hell if I bloody now!" she retorted in a whispered scream. "I didn't know she'd be requesting something crazy like this! I don't think I could go through with giving up something like that, immortality granted or not!" Ellarrah shook her head in disbelief, though set her lips to a frown as she sighed, quickly appearing defeated and sad. "But do we really have any other choice?"
She turned to the djinn, wary of her and held her tongue as thoughts broiled inside her head.

"How would it work anyways?" Ellarrah barked over to her. "Offering up our hearts, I mean. That is to say, if we decided to agree..."
They might as well hear her out. What other choice did they have? Survive forever in the puzzle box? If so, Ellarrah worried the outcome- knowing full well she'd go mad, if she even survived at all!

Jazbel felt heartbroken as Ellarrah screeched at him.
He wanted to help her, and himself, but he didn't know any way out of it. What's worse is that Eoki seemed to agree. The man could see the diety's face in his mind, cold and distant. The diety of water could give them no comfort, no answers. Asmoda's eyes twinkled.
"How does it work?" she said.
This was clearly the the part she was waiting for.

The djinn sunk to the ground, her giant form becoming smaller until she was Ellarrah's size. Naked, Asmoda reached out for the woman, running a hand through her hair.
"Just with a kiss," she said in a low voice, almost pleasant.
"She'll devour it," Jazbel found himself saying.
Jazbel cursed to himself.
"What? It's true," Eoki protested through Jazbel.
The man found it most unhelpful. So did Asmoda.
If looks could kill, the djinn shot Jazbel a look that could have sent him to hell and back.
"Silence, fallen one," she growled before turning her attention back to Ellarrah with an expression so sweet, her previous look was all but forgotten to Jazbel.
"Kiss me," she repeated.
There was no honey as sweet as her voice.
"And yes, it will be as if my own heart, but it's safer there.   I can easily return it back to you once you've destroyed the puzzle.. That doesn't sound so bad, does it?"

"What?" Ellarrah barked, blinking as she felt completely mortified over the suggestion, her face giving way to blush.  "You want to-" and the idea made her shrink back.
A kiss was a kiss, sure, she'd kiss a girl if she were drunk- but this was some crazy, djinny, naked and insane woman who wanted to kiss her... to steal her heart!

Panicked, Ellarrah continued to back away as the djinn approached her, but found herself soon cornered against a wall as her elbow knocked over a nearby brass vase that fell, crashign loudly beside her.  Ellarrah flinched, turning away for one moment to look at the fallen vase then back to the djinn, her wild red hair falling over her face..

and it was in that motion the Asmoda was before her, mere inches from her face and drawing ever closer.

"Think about it.... a kiss, your heart.." the woman spoke, her breath hot against Ellarrah's lips as fingers traipsed up her chest.  "Just a single action to grant a chain, a link.. to your ultimate freedom."
THe voice was purred with sin and promise, as Asmoda twisted her fingers into Ellarrah's wild hair.

"J-just a kiss," Ellarrah found herself repeating nervously. Asmoda nodded, leaning in closer, lips brushing dangerously.  Ellarrah felt her body flutter and face heat at the motion.
"Just a kiss for our freedom." The girl repeated. Asmoda nodded.


Even though her heart felt like lead...
She realized she had no other choice.
"By the God's, damn me for this!" Ellarrah cried, and in one reckless motion, she grabbed the Djinn's cheeks, their lips crashing in an intense moment of agony, pain and bliss.

It swelled within her, her pains being cried through her lips (even though they were sealed) as her body errupted into colorful lights of white and red.. then surged into a spiral across her chest, pinwheeling outwards and wider, spinning faster still until they struck out, piercing back into her body and inside her very soul- where Asmoda hugged their bodies together, gripping onto Ellarrah's face and drank... sipping out Ellarrah's very heart and soul.


And then naked djinn pulled back, hands falling away from the crumbling form of Ellarrah as the woman fell forward and glittered away into fades of dust.

Asmoda used her wrist to wipe off the blood and glitter of light upon her lips before she turned on Jazbel, eyes glittering and hungry for more.  As she approached, the sound of a heart beat was evident, as it continued steadily in an echo all around them, and a faint light pulsated from within the djinn's breast.. and as if her body were translucent, it was almost evident to see the brilliant light of Ellarrah's trapped soul inside, beating away like a steady drum, trapped, seemingly forever, within the prison of the djinn's body.

Jazbel's hands shook. The water in the bowl began to toss restlessly. Eoki was holding his body still.
"Don't move," the diety hissed through Jazbel's voice.
"But Ellarrah-" Jazbel tried to reply trough gritted teeth.
"Just. Watch."

Jazbel did in utter horror. There were few times in his life that he had ever felt so helpless. He watched as the djinn pulled Ellarrah close and as their lips touched the woman cried out in agony... and then she disappeared in a flash of light. Jazbel averted his gaze, blinded.
"Ellarrah!" he bellowed.
As Asmoda approached him, Jazbel shot her a venomous look.
"What did you do?" he said,  taking a step backwards.
The djinn only smiled as she seemed to glide across the room towards him.
"You know what I did," she chortled, a finger on his chest.

Jazbel felt his heart leap up to this throat. Normally, he would not think twice about saying no to a kiss from a beautiful woman, human or no, but though Asmoda was... stunning in the least, there was something utterly repulsive about her. Jazbel put it off to being the eating his heart sort of thing. He gulped as she wrapped her arms around him, her body pressed against his. Her eyes locked with hers. He blinked, trying to get his mind clear, trying to think.
"Eoki," he quietly said. "He's still in...  part of me. He said something... about a fountain."
The djinn smirked as she leaned in, her lips brushing against his ear.
"That's your problem, love," she said giving him one last look -was it mocking? amused? - and then a flash of white and purple light, and all that was left was a golden bowl and the beating of two hearts.

---

"M'lady!"
Jazbel's eyes bolted open. He was propped up against the wall, puzzle in hand, just as he had been sitting when Ellarrah.
"Ellarrah, by Kia...! Are you alright?"

Ellarrah now stood in the room, her arms coming to rest at her sides as is she were recovering from some sort of action. Except there was something different about her as she stared out at the world, dazed and confused, also frightened  as her body began to wobble and fall away....

When she had returned, all of the memories replayed themselves inside her head. From creepy leeches, to skeletal kisses to the last beating of her heart. When she felt for her own chest, she paled, fearing her heart might not still be beating within her as her legs gave away-
and down towards the floor she went.

Ellarrah was oddly unresponsive. Quiet. Numb.
Jazbel narrowed his eyes as he slowly wobbled to his feet, bracing his weight against the wall. He left the puzzle on the ground.
"Ellarrah?" he repeated, quietly this time.
He made his way towards her, shakily at first, but then more and more steady as he went along. The man frowned. The woman's behavior was creeping him out.
"Elle-?" he started to ask, but then she collapsed.
"Whoa!" he exclaimed anxiously as he reached out for her.

The man caught her in his arms, sliding to the ground as he softened her fall. It wasn't just her; something was wrong with him, too. His heart. It should have been pounding by now. Anxiously, the man slipped a hand under his shirt, feeling his chest. Nothing. Dumbfounded, he looked down at Ellarrah and back at the puzzle. Silent and still he sat in the looming darkness, the fire already out.
"It's gone," he whispered, more to himself than anybody.
"Yup."
Jazbel blinked, then groaned.
"You're still there?" he murmured.
"That's right."

Jazbel sighed as he looked down at Ellarrah, his head lightly hitting the wall.
"So that's how it is," he said, rolling his eyes.
In his mind's eye he could see Eoki smirk humourlessly at this.
You don't have to talk to me outloud, you know, he said. Not anymore. Not here.
Jazbel blinked.
After all this time?! he thought, frustrated.
Things are different here, Eoki replied, a bit indignantly. 
Jazbel scoffed at this.
Tell me about it.

OOC: Poor Jazzy!
At least he'll never be.. FOREVER ALONE!

IC:

Ellarrah felt weak and sick and numb as she remained, still dazed in Jazbel's arms. She didn't know what to make of all of this, and hadn't even expected to come back alive.  No heartbeat and surviving death aside, it all took a toll on her- every thing she suffered, though it be great or small as she suddenly let out a crack of noise. Her eyes teared up suddenly as she began to shake.

"Gods.."s he finally muttered, finding herself collapsing and pressing her face into Jazbel's chest.  "Gods, we're somehow alive!" she cried, blinking once as the hot tears began to roll down from her eyes.

"M'lady?" Jazbel repeated, softly.
The man was lost as he watched Ellarrah's body quiver.  As if guided by a lost memory, Jazbel awkwardly reached for her red hair for one hand, the other slipping around her waist. He held her against him. Jazbel didn't realize it, but his body was shaking violently.
"Yeah," he breathlessly replied, the initial shock wearing off.
Jazbel felt his face grow hot, too, his eyes growing wet. He pressed his chin against the top of her head, his eyse staring into the darkness, contemplating on the wonders and horrors they had seen.
"Thank Kia," he said in a whisper. "Thank Kia...."

The man looked down at Ellarrah. It unnerved him, to see her like this.
Poor lass, he thought, wiping away at his own face. He coughed.
"Looks like you'll be stuck with me for just a little longer, eh?" he choked out, forcing out a smile.

OOC: That just  makes it worse! Eoki  judging him... 

Ellarrah suddenly started sobbing at his words. She couldn't help herself, it had all been too much and eventually, in spite of herself, she just let it go, pressing her face into Jazzy's shirt and soiling it with he rsalty tears. After a while, she calmed enough to let the tears whimper away, then slowly, steadily breathed...

and when she heard no noise from her chest, she frowned, which quickly curled upwards as she smiled at Jazzy's comment.
"Things sure could be worse!" she said, trying to pick up her spirits as she stared up at him, wiping a hand to her tears. "Ah, bloody hell, my eyes are leaking something fierce," she commented, blushing as she continued to wipe at them. THen she noticed his shirt and another few tears fell down her cheeks. "And it looks like I've done got your shirt all wet." she moved her hand over it, as if she could brush it away.

There was the spirit he knew. Jazbel scoffed at her comment.
Could they have gotten much worse?
"Maybe," he replied, not entirely sure.
Well, we could be dead. But now we're eternally bound.
He shook his head, trying not to think about it.  Not now.
"It's okay lass," he soothed, chuckling as  Ellarrah fretted.

"Huh?" he murmured, both bemused as she began to wipe at his shirt. After their chase in the rain, almost drowning, and the diety, she was worried about wetting.. his shirt? Jazbel grasped her hand with his and rose it to his lips, gently kissing it.
"It'll dry, m'lady."
Jazbel rubbed her shoulders, helping Ellarrah to her feet.
"We best get some sleep, Elle," he said.
He ruefully grinned.
"And in the morning we'll eat all the food in this inn."

Ellarrah blushed at the kiss to her hand, but simply nodded at the idea of sleep.
"Hopefully I can steal enough coin for it," she mused, stretching her arms above her head as she stretched. "Since I fully intend to eat and drink as much as I can until my belly is filled and bursting!" Collapsing onto the bed so she was lying on her back, but her legs still remained bent over the side, she sighed and stared at the ceiling for a time before kicking off her shoes and then rolling ontop of it and snuggling into the bed sheets.

"I could sleep for days," she commented after a time, restlessly snuggling into pillow, burying her face into it as much as she could.  She tried not to think about the curse or the puzzle box, and tried to focus on sleep, since her body and mind were wrecked with exhaustion.

Jazbel frowned at the prospect of stealing. He wasn't the most honest of men, himself, but he wasn't a thief.
"We've already had enough trouble for a life time," he warned her, but he nodded at her comment on food and drink. Aye, he felt the same way, too. Jazbel groaned as he rose to his feet and stretched, rubbing his lower back.  He quietly watched the woman for a few moments, his face blank before he sank back against the wall. It was only proper that the lady got the bed. Besides, he was used to the road; he was glad enough to have a roof over his head. With his legs crossed and his arms crossed in his lap, Jazbel nodded off to sleep.

--

If Jazbel had dreamed, he did not remember it. He rose when the sunlight came pouring into their room through the  curtains.
What time is it? Jazbel wondered, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes. They would have to leave soon. They had a long way to go... Though Jazbel didn't know where to begin. He decided to push such thoughts for after breakfast.
And strawberry wine.
He made his way towards the the basin by the bedside and began to wash his face.
"Good morrow," he said, still groggy.

OOC: left it sorta vague because i didn't know if you wanted Elllarrah waking up earlier or after :P

OOC: Oh, she's totally only going to wake up now! <3

IC:
Ellarrah groaned into the pillow.
"Another hour, another hour," she wailed, pressing her face intot he bed while dumping her pillow over her head to shield her ears from the noises Jazbel was making while only simply washing his face.
Another moment later, she grumbled, moving restlessly about beneath the sheets before finally peering out at him, her hair a complete, frizzy mess, sticking out in every which direction while more untamed locks hung about her face.

"Gods... what time is it anyway?" she rubbed at her eyes with the heel of her hand and groaned, stretching as she sat up in the bed, exhausted.

Jazbel smiled as he watched the woman peer up at him from under the covers.
"Round midday," he replied as he dried his face.
The man playfully tugged back her sheets as carefully placed his smaller instroments, such as his flute, into his bag. He put on his coat and strapped his lute across his back.
"Come on. Get your things together and meet me downstairs," he said. "I'll order us some food."

---

True to his word the night before, Jazbel ordered himself some strawberry wine and ale for the lady. He bit into hot bread with cheese, savoring the flavor.  They were one of the most readily available foods, along with some pottage. He had ordered a loaf for himself and for Ellarrah, along a bowl of the pottage each. There was also fowl in the ovens. The man almost cried as he took his first bite. Eoki, who had been silently looming in the back of his mind, but ever present, didn't seem to care for it much.
You have not lived, my friend, Jazbel thought, completely unsympathetic.
I don't need food, he replied, haughty, though when Jazbel took another swing of wine, he found himself draining the whole bottle in one go.
Jazbel stared at it in dismay.
Why'd you do that?! he asked.
In the back of his mind's eye, Eoki smiled, smuggly.
Get another, they suggested.
Jazbel wasn't quite sure if that was an order or suggestion, but he did so, anyway.

OOC: He totally should be wary of getting drunk with Ellarrah XD
JUST SAYING

LEST WE FORGET THE DARTS <3 <3 <3

IC:
Ellarrah groaned and stuffed her head deeper beneath her pillow.
"Don't be so cruel, to me, Jazzy. Five more minutes."S he groaned, but nodded her head beneath the pillow at his suggestion and dragged herself out of the bed, slapped water into her face and made her way down to the tavern floor where Jazbel was already waiting.

Her mouth was salivating, and she already downed two beers when she ordered her third- the alcohol already going ot her head and making her cheeks a cheery blossom of red.
Devouring her food in a less than lady like fashion, Ellarrah sat back into her chair with a satisfied sigh and a pat to her belly.
"Gods, it's like I'm in heaven," she said, a light belch coming from her lips. She raised a hand to them and blushed. "Sorry, Jazz." she said, but then her eyes glowed when a third beer was presented.

"So I was thinking."s he said, raising her mug as he got his second wine.
"We should toast towards our new freedoms and new beginnings. After all, it's not like everyday you can celebrate from becoming free from a puzzle box dungeon, only to have your heart taken from you to enslave you to some other, Godforesaken mission."
Though despite her words, she spoke cheerfully, looked cheerful and eager raised her mug to clink to his.
"Cheers!"

OOC: he's careful. Plus, the wine would probably be thin and they're eating a whole bunch. Ellarrah just has a low tolerance :P  (Jazbel: -shudders- I shan't forget. never forget.)
IC:

Jazbel did not mind Ellarrah's manners. His was perhaps less than courtly, as well, as they were both famished. He blew on his pottage to cool it down before devouring it within two minutes. A few minutes later, their meat had been presented to them, though that was quickly almost devoured as well.
"Not so fast," he muttered as he watched Ellarrah drink her liquor. Jazbel was keen on avoiding the events of the night before, and her face was going red.
"We've work to do today, remember," he warned her as he licked the grease off his fingers.

He accepted his second bottle of wine with a "thank you". He made a face at Ellarrah's toast. It was awfully cheerful for such foul content. Jazbel didn't really think he much liked the idea of toasting having his heart ripped out and being obliged to a mission he didn't want to venture on. But to new beginnings and adventure... well, there was some romance in that.
"To being alive," he said as he clinked his bottle with her mug and took a swing.

The man sighed.
"So I'm thinking," he said.
"There's a library by the temples. A giant one.  Maybe they have information on the sort of weapon we're looking for? Otherwise, I guess there's Uthlyn..."
He scowled.
"Damn, this would be a much easier task if were in Serendipity,  but we'll make do."

OOC: SHe guzzled two beers before she ate X3
And poor Jazzy!

IC:
Ellarrah looked up, having her face half stuffed with the remnant carcass they had been served IYes, she still found herself somehow quite hungry after filling her belly- but there was a few pieces of meat left- and she didn't want to waste!).
"A library?" he face twisted quizzically. She had never been to one, at least, not one purpose. She nodded her head and wiped the grease off her chin as she swallowed her food.

"You think we might really find something there?" she inquired, licking the grease from her fingers as she topped off another beer, clinking the empty mug onto the table.  "But I guess that's a start." She frowned as she thought. "I mean, I wouldn't even know where to begin to consider such a weapon. You'd think you'd be able to just put the damn thing under some large animal or boulder and just smash it..." She shook her head and sighed, then went back to picking at hte crumbs on her plate, licking her finger to collect them along the way before pressing the finger ontop of the plate, one two three.. four.. four crumbs that she then took to her mouth and sucked off her finger.

Jazbel nodded at Ellarrah's question, catching onto the doubt in her tone. He warily smiled.
"I've no idea," he said.
The man wished that it was only as so simple as smashing the puzzle. As he took another swing of wine, Eoki spoke to him.
I can help.
Jazbel choked on his wine, pounding his chest as he sputtered. He held up  a finger to Ellarrah, telling her to hold on.
What do you mean? he asked.

Eoki grinned mischeviously, their robes flaring triumphantly at the ends.
I'm a diety, they replied. And I'm more powerful than Asmoda gives me credit for.
Jazbel blinked, processing this information.
So you've a weapon we can use? he asked, eagerly.
Eoki shrugged, sheepishly.
Maybe, they replied. They probably were all stolen long ago or at the bottom of the oceans. Your chances of finding them are slim.
Jazbel made a face at this.
But once we are separated I can use my magic, they quickly added.
Jazbel was doubtful of this.
Weren't you trapped in there? he pointed out.
Eoki fumed at this.
Tricks and lies, they hissed.  And teleportation isn't within my domain, damn them.
Jazbel sighed.
I don't suppose you know where the fountain where we can seperate IS?
No answer.
Jazbel rolled his eyes.
"Okay, okay," he said outloud as he told Ellarrah all that he had heard.

"So you're saying the voices in your head are telling us to seek out some sort of Fountain?"
Ellarrah groaned as she bent over the table, elbows resting upon it and hands raking into her hair as she pulled with a sigh.
"More missions, more research, I gather," Ellarrah replied, a simple complaint as she sighed and sat back within her chair.
"And here I thought we could just disappear inside our ale," the woman lamented, staring at her empty mug and gesturing towards the bar maid as she passed. "Hey, lady, more beer!"
She wasn't sure if she wanted to stay sober when they started their travels, and three beers was hardly enough!

Once the barmaid was off, Ellarrah sighed and wilted forward, but a few minutes later her green eyes went to Jazbel.

"Jazzy.." she hesitated, her eyes studying him with caution and concern. "So... Eoki, he..." she wasn't sure what she wanted to ask.  "I bet it's difficult dealing with that thing inside your head." she started, then lowered her head, blushing a bit as she laughed at herself through a breath. "And sorry about that.." she began, twirling a finger through a wild lock of hair before brushing it behind her ear.  "About Eoki, I mean.. and this whole mess I..." She couldn't help but look sad over it despite her smile, but then the beer came and she raised it up, putting on airs as she shouted, "Well, here's to a new adventure, eh?" and began to guzzle it down to drown away her woes.  "I guess it's not like everyday a pretty girl can dump water onto your face and curse you to share your brain with some entity, right?"

Gods.....

She wasn't sure how to forgive herself for all of this.

Jazbel nodded at Ellarrah's question.
"Just one voice, m'dear," he replied warily.
One was quite enough- he couldn't imagine multiple! The man took another swing of wine.
"Aye, but at least we've a lead," he replied, nodding sagely.
Jazbel crooked an eyebrow as the woman mention disappearing into their ale. He reached out towards the waitress, alarmed.
"No, no, no. No more beer for you!" he quickly said. The man gestured for her to pour only a little. She seemed confused, but nodded.

Jazbel slumped back into his chair, relieved that a catastrophe was averted. Maybe. 

---

His second bottle finished, Jazbel listened to Ellarrah's apology.  He waved his hand, dismissively. (To his disappointment, the mug was full.)
"It's okay, lass,"  he said as reassuringly as he could. "I probably would have done the same."
He rose to his feet, placed a few coins on the table, and tapped her on the shoulder.
"Oh, no you don't," he warned with a fierce determination.  "We are going to go read."

--
The walk to the library was a pleasant one. The streets were busy with activity and the day was clear, though a few clouds loomed over head, still present from the previous night's rainfall. Jazbel couldn't help but to hum a ditty to himself.
Had things been what they were, I would have been performing right there, he thought wistfully as he glanced at the marketplace fountain. Jazbel would have made much, too. He always did, on days like this. Though he didn't speak much during the walk save for a mutter or two, within a few minutes, the library was standing before them.

The building was magnificent, with large pillars and ominous statues.
"This way, m'dear," he said as he walked up the stairs and opened the door for Ellarrah, gesturing for her to keep her voice down. A bored librarian sat behind a table by the door, hovering over a very large book with lots of complicated looking columns. Jazbel feared the ink would smear their particularly pointy nose.
"Excuse me," he said, nervously, leaning in close. "By any chance, do you have any books on, erm.... Fell?"

"Read!?"
ANd groaning, she was dragged away... through the streets and to the library where she remained, sadly, sober and grumbled and itched at Jazzy's side.
"Jazzy, this building looks too important," she complained, shuffling the weight between her feet. "What if I break something expensive?"

Staring inside, she sighed, but kept herself quiet for the most part..
well, for the first two minutes before she turned to the bored librarian and chimed in, loudly, "Yeah, we need any and all books you might have on it!  So be a doll and hurry up, will ya? We've got.. some what of a dead line for a report or some such." she tried her charms, leaning over the table as she pressed her breasts together, displaying her cleavage at just the right line of sight.

When the librarian noticed, he just stared..
and stared..
And continued to stare before he began stuttering.
"Wh-why yes, my lady. We have a fine collection on myths and legends from the Fell." He cleared hsi throat, noticing Jazbel and shrunk a little as he gestured.
"If you'll follow me, we have a vault in the back. I can show you where the scrolls and books are." Clearing his throat again he stared at Ellarrah, brain stunted by her breasts again before he turned away. "Right,.. the books."
ANd lead them onward.

Ellarrah gave Jazzy a cheeky grin.
"Perhaps libraries can be a bit o' fun." she quipped, tossing him a wink as she slung an arm around his.  "So how quiet do we have to be, love?" she asked, playfully squeezing herself against him, still in full cleavage mode.

Jazbel tried to suppress a smirk as Ellarrah used some of her charms on the librarian, watching as the poor man fell for her lies, feeble at best.
Report or some such, he thought as he shook his head. It would do, for now. Just as long the man didn't ask questions, though they could handle him.
"Thank you," he said, making it a point to walk between him and Elllarrah.
He would not tolerate such flirtatious behavior between this man and his colleague, after all.

Jazbel waited for the man to leave them alone to their research before turning his attention to the books. The librarian hadn't lied. There were many, many scrolls and books, most looking as if they hadn't been touched for a long time. The cobwebs in the corner of a shelf, the  dust, and the tiny black spider proved this point. Jazbel would have frowned at the untidiness but instead found himself pressed against the shelves by a coquettish Ellarrah. Caught unaware, he awkwardly allowed himself to place a hand on her waist. Though he knew better than to allow her to seduce him, Jazbel still couldn't help but to notice her body pressed against his, fully appreciating the 'view'.
"Err... " he coughed, pulling himself together. He gave her waist a squeeze, playfully tapping her nose with his other hand.
"Lass, not now," he said in a cautious, hushed tone. "And quiet enough. Don't want people to catch onto what we are doing. Help me here."

With that, he turned around to look at the books, pulling out a couple. With no lead to start, any one would do.
"Fountain, fountain," he murmured as he flipped through pages, coughing as dust flew up.

When Jazbel waved off her advances, the girl soured and resigned herself to her books, collapsing into a chair and flipping irritably through the pages.
"Do we have to look through all of these things?"s he groaned, elbows to the table and pushing into her cheeks.
She yawned, and slumped her cheek against a hand before looking over at him, turning the pages without really looking.
"So how are we..." she began, when her eyes returned to her book and she gave a start. "Hey I think I got somethign!" she had flipped past a page, but quickly returned to leaf through a few pages back and there, staring at her was some sort of fountain thing.

"Hey, Jazzy! Come look!" she shouted, waving over to him, her voice echoing loudly through the lirbary, garnering them  few shhhhhhhhhs from the other library patriots. Ellarrah only gave them a glare before pointing to the page and turning the book towards.
"Do you think this is the fountain Eoki seeks?"  She leaned forward, naturally squishing her breasts together for amplified cleavage as they rested across the table.
"Too bad this writing is in some ancient script," she said with a sigh, raking a hand through her hair.

"Yup," Jazbel dully replied as Ellarrah questioned the necessity of their search.
He ignored her for a few moments as he tried to find any myths or word of fountains in his book, but no such luck.  There were fountains, but they were all examined for architectual purposes, nothing magical about them, except perhaps that some were still standing. Frustrated, Jazbel shut that book and pushed it aside. As he carefully un rolled a scroll, Ellarrah's shout caught his attention.

The man cringed at her shout, the loud noise amplified by the echoes. He gave the other patrons an apologetic look before throwing his companion a scowl. Jazbel opened his mouth to scowl at Ellarrah, to lecture her on the meaning of being quiet in a place that they could very well be kicked out of... But he forgot all that when she pointed out a fountain. Curious, Jazbel drew up a chair next to her, examining the pages. Jazbel felt Eoki grow content, excited, even.
Can you read this? Jazbel asked.
Of course, Eoki replied, practically glowing. I can read any language. I am a diety of knowledge, too, and-
"Great, they said that's the one," Jazbel whispered, choosing to ignore the bragging entity within him.
He gave Ellarrah a coy grin.
"Do you think you can snag us a quill, ink, and parchment from the librarian?" he asked.
Better to write everything down so that they wouldn't forget later in the road.

"What a simple task you ask," she said with a laugh, coyly rising to her feet as she approached the lirbarian, cleavage in full bloom.
"Say, love, my friends and I, er, friend and I-" Ellarrah corrected. "Need a bit of some parchment and a quill. And an inkwell might due. Taking notes on this and that you know..."s he cooed, curling her fingers through her hair as the man melted like putty, handing over exactly what she needed.
Squeaking with delight, she patted his cheek.
"Thanks love!" and with a wave, she was off, handing over the items triumphantly to her partner in crime.
"Yes, you do ask too much of me,"s he said, collapsing back into her chair with a contented sigh.

"Good girl," Jazbel said with a smirk.
He waited patiently as he stared at the page, allowing Eoki to read it.
What is it? Jazbel asked, but Eoki ignored him, too absurded in the text.
It was an odd sensation. Jazbel was slightly bored, as he could not make out a word the page was saying, but at the same time,  Eoki needed him to concentrate, so he did.
Jazbel only broke it as his companion returned with their prize in her hands.
"Hardly," Jazbel retorted as he quickly laid out the parchment and expertly filled the pen with ink.
"I paid for breakfast AND the inn, if you don't remember, and that did not come cheap."

He sighed.
Okay, Eoki. tell me what to write, he asked.
The diety did. 
They talked fast, and Jazbel had to pause them often, asking for a phrase or word to be repeated. It was a poem, written in alternating rhyme that didn't translate well into Common. The fountain, according to it, was a  portal to the Celestial Realm, where Eoki originated from. The troublesome thing about it that it only made itself known during the full moon. It was evens said to move now and then. The rest of the poem was also an incitation of how to open it. Jazbel sighed as he flexed his fingers. The fountain sounded like a troublesome thing.
"Well, that's that," he muttered, glad to at least have this information. "Ellarrah, what do you think?"

Ellarrah watched boredly, at times, brushing her hair with her fingers, fussing over this and that and trying to find more interesting ways to style it when..
Jazbel finally turned to her.
Turning around, her hair looking silly all piled upon her head, she blinked.
THen peered down at the piece of paper.

Reading it over, she wrinkled her nose.
"Sounds like that god damn puzzle sphere," she griped. Shaking her head, she stood up, hands to her hips.
"ANd like we'll be chasing shadows." She shook her head. "I mean, what does it mean the location changes? Ugh.." She rubbed irritably at the back of her neck. "Yes, chasing shadows might be easier." She wilted slightly. "Well, not like we have much of a choice. Does that thing inside your head say anything else on how to figure out it's location? or do we have to dig through more scrolls?"

Jazbel grimly nodded.
"Shadows indeed," he muttered, slouching in his chair.
It was already a gamble to begin with, and Ellarrah's commentary was just pointing out how lost he felt. He shrugged at her suggestion.
"I don't know," Jazbel admitted.
Eoki pondered on an answer.

I don't know, he simply replied. But I don't think it's in Fell.
Of course, Jazbel thought, rolling his eyes. That would be too easy.
Eoki didn't appreciate his attitude.
There are ways of finding out, Eoki pointed out. Use your head! You have a picture. It's probably well preserved. Draw a picture, ask around for rumors. Someone must have seen it. The fountain  keeps its magic well hidden, but its a flamboyant thing.
How do you know this? Jazbel asked, doubtfully after telling Ellarrah all of this.
He could feel Eoki smile smugly.
I know many things.

Jazbel frowned. He didn't consider himself much of an artist.
"Oi, Elle," he asked. "Did they teach you how to draw in that school of yours?"

"Draw?" Ellarrah made a face. "Hardly. I never had time for such a thing." SHaking her head she sighed.
"But I suppose I could try, After all, this all seems to be bloody none sense anyways."
Yanking the quill away, she dabbled it messily into the ink, spilling it everywhere as she begn to make her sketch.
Whens he was finished, she was actually surprised.
"Hey, that was kind of fun.!"
and so.. they had a crude interpretation of the fountain image, while Ellarrah..
well.. she wore a wonderous smile and ink all over her face and hands.
"Think I could pass as one of those artists, eh?" she said, showing off her work.
"Maybe I'll draw your picture next." she gestured to Jazz, elbowing him in play.

Jazbel watched Ellarrah struggle with the quill in amusement. Her efforts paid off, more or less. There on the paper was a rough copy of the image of the fountain. Hardly a master piece, but at least it looked like the fountain in question and had vague details, if you gave it a second look.  Certainly unique looking.
Humph. It'll do, Eoki agreed in a disappointed tone.
Jazbel nodded. It was certainly better than anything he could have done. The man doubted he could even draw a circle.
Now we can start asking around, he thought.

The man grinned saucily at her question.
"Only if you draw me with lots of muscles," he teased. "And only if I get to model nude."
With that, he shut the books and began to put them away.
"Let's get out of this dreary, dusty place and start asking around," he hissed, looking around. They had already drawn too much attention to themselves, here.

"Jazzy!" she squealed in delight at his ideas, blushing lightly as she gave a laugh.
"THough I suppose those artsy types aren't much of prudes. They due draw people in the nude."
She thought about it a moment, then briefly thought of Jazbel, then Jazbel nude, then Jazbel nude with muscles....
At first she blushed, then she giggled again and clung around his arm.

"So, where to next, love?" She looked around the library at all of the people glaring at them as they exited, giving them a little wave before they left, then a wave and wink to the librarian.

"So.. I hope this next place has a bar!" Ellarrah said, stretched her arms high above their head as they got outside.
"Ah, the open road." Despite not having a heart, it still felt good to be free of that puzzle place. Staring up at the sky, she smiled, a real smile and thought of nothing else.
No cares in that moment.
No worries.

"Indeed they do," Jazbel replied airily, chuckling to himself as the woman clung to him.
Her energy seeped into him and the man couldn't help but to mockingly wave at the librarian in a simirily flirtatious manner. Jazbel reveled in his expression for the next few minutes, a mischievous grin plastered onto his face.

"We hit the road," he replied to Ellarrah as they headed in the direction towards the city gates. There was no point in staying in Reajh much longer. The man looked up at the afternoon sky. The sun was shining brillantly, but it wouldn't last for long. Maybe three, four hours, tops.
"If we hurry, we can reach Uthlyn by night and start our search there."

OOC: We can keep the thread going here, maybe? since they're going cross country and probably won't stay in uthlyn long, unless stuff happens there.  (dun dun dun xD)

Ellarrah wouldn't deny she was glad to see Reajh behind them.  She preferred traveling herself, never keeping to one location- her home being the open road. But even she had a sense of despair...
there would always be a sense of sadness to never have a place to call home, howver, she chose it to be this way, so who was she to complain?

"So.." Ellarrah began, resting her hands behind her head.  "Having any interesting conversations with that thing inside your head?" she gave him a smug grin, then gave a light chuckle. "I suppose it's better that entity is inside your head rather than mine. I don't think I could handle having more than my own thoughts plaguing me." She made a terribly bitter face at the idea.
"So, if you don't mind me asking, what sort of things did you do before you found yourself cursed along with this clever lass because of a silly puzzle box? I already gather you were after that thing but... say.." she eyed him a moment. "You do have that thing secure on you, right?" she tilted her head, hoping they weren't foolish enough to leave it behind- but she figured, Jazzy was more responsible than she was.  She tapped her fingers at the hilt of her sword that hung at her side, staring easily at the road before them.

Smiling, she then commented. "It is a rather beautiful day, ain't it, Jazzy?"
"Of course, any day would be beautiful after being trapped inside a puzzle box, than a library all day." she groaned, cracking her back as she let out a contented sigh at the noise. Brushing her red hair out of her face, she turned to him, hands to her hips and just stared at him fo ra moment, a bit of a curiosity to her face.

Thank Kia Eoki wasn't in a talkative mood. They were always lingering in the back of Jazbel's mind, but the deity seemed  to be deep in thought, exhausted, or both. Jazbel didn't pry. The man smiled weakly at Ellarrah's question on his conversations with Eoki.
If only you knew.
"Oh, it's maddening beyond anything I could ever imagine," Jazbel agreed, "Though things are quiet for now, I suppose."
Her next question was a bit touchier. Ach, well it wasn't like his profession itself was all that a secret. After all, he was a man for hire.
Though I don't know how she'll take on the disguises  bit... She'd probably laugh knowning that dress was actually mine.

He smirked at this. Yeah, whatever. Jazbel was a master with make up and disguises- he was quite proud of his female transformations. A delightful prank rolled in his mind and he toyed with the idea as Ellarrah asked him about the weather.
"Indeed it is, m'dear," he lazily replied, stretching out his arms.
Thank Kia it was, too.
"But to answer your question, I'd like to think of myself as a man of mystery," Jazbel boasted with a sly grin.
"I generally play music in the streets and courts and keep my ears open for a secret or two. It earns plenty a pretty coin, this profession, and you learn much."

"Ah, you ain't gonna fool me on all that talk there about singing and stuff, Jazzy," Ellarrah said, waving him off. "You have more to ya than meets the eye, that's for sure."s he siad, looking him over appreciatively. "Now spill the beans. You can tell me your secrets. After all, we did survive that puzzle play." she said with a playful finger poke to his chest and a sly, good old Ellarrah grin.

She even melted it into a bit of a leer.

"But, if you are a musician," she began, back peddling to the thought. "Perhaps you ought to entertain me with a song?" she said, hugging onto his arm and grinning. "What sort of songs do you use to serenade all the women in town square to give you coin?" She squeezed herself closer to him, her grin ever more coy.

"Are you mocking me, Elle?" Jazbel asked in a mocked offensed voice as Ellarrah pried for his 'secrets'. He was reluntant to tell her, if only because he was having fun. He rubbed his chest where she had poked it.
"Secrets? I have no such thing," he retorted. "Not for myself, anyway."
Too burdened by the secrets of others.
Yes, he liked the poetry in that.

Jazbel chuckled as she pressed herself against him. If he still had his heart, he supposed it would have beaten faster. He stood up taller, his chest swelling with pride as she asked him for a song. He knew fairly well she was playing on his ego, but why not indulge her? After all, they had the whole afternoon ahead of them, and it would make the time go by faster.
"Anything for a lady," he replied, smoothly.
He pulled his guitar from his back, and strummed a few notes before launching into a ditty with a playful melody about a young farmer boy and his lover. It was seemingly innocent, though the song was full of word play and innuendo. The humor was emphasized by the faces Jazbel made as he sang, clear and strong. When he was done, he strummed another bar, in the mood for another song, now that one was finished.
"Does m'lady sing?" he asked.

OOC: he seduces them by making the same face as Miguel in my avatar :< also was so tempted to use the line "were you not entertained" XD

OOC: OMG XD *rolls around in a fit of giggles* XD~
Your last post...
FULL OF AMAZING <3

IC:
Ellarrah's eyes danced as she heard his music. He was rather charming, and the strum of the guitar, so alluring and fun! She hugged his arm again.
"What a fun song!"s he squeaked with delight, a soft, musical giggle echoing from her lips, but when he turned to her and asked if she sang, she took a step back, waving her arms at him with a shake of her head.
"Hardly," she brushed her unruly hair aside and planted hands to her hips.
"Unless you like the singing sounds of a squawking bird."s he jerked a thumb towards her chest "THen I reckon you can do all of the singing." She grinned at him. "But another song would be nice." She clutched to his arm again. "We do have all day." She cooed.


OOC: *more snickering*

"Thank you," Jazbel said, graciously accepting the words of praise.
He smirked at her reaction at being asked to sing.
"I rather like squawking birds," he teased. He'd never had thought Ellarrah would have been so bashful about this sort of thing, it was rather enduring. Jazbel grinned broadly at the mention of another song. Once he got started, it was hard to get him to stop.
"That we do."

So Jazbel sang and played folk songs, sailor songs, ballads, anything to pass the time that popped in his mind. He even tried to get Ellarrah to join him in a reel or two.
"Are you sure you don't sing, lass?" he teased again. "Maybe Eoki does."
He  decided to poke  at the deity, despite the figure making it clear they just wanted to sit back.
What about it? he asked the deity. Know any?
The deity scoffed.
I've an infinite knowledge of them, yes.
"He says he knows lots," Jazbel said, encouraged.
He could see Eoki rolled his eyes.
Oh, for goodness sake....

Eoki began to hum, and Jazbel, with his ear, began to strum the notes as he went along. It was a strange tune in a tricky key. It rather reminded Jazbel of water on a rippling brook, or the ocean. The song was both lonely yet exuberant.
Happy? Eoki grumbled after they were done, though he cracked out a tiny grin. I'm tired...
Yes, Jazbel replied, though, in truth, he was puzzled by what he had just played.
He fell silent as he turned to face a sign, which perked his mood.
"It looks like we'll hit the city by evening, Elle," he said.

OOC: Eoki the party pooper (?)

OOC: I feel blessed to be able to reply to SOOOO many cute posts in one night XD~

SO MUCH COOTNESS *_*
and.. Eoki.. <3

IC:
Ellarrah could only shake her head.
"Stop it, Jazzy!"she said with a playful, almost musical chuckle as she blushed. "Perhaps only if you ever were to get me that drunk. THen I could sing with you all night." She purred at the thought and gave a  fluff of her hair.

Then, as Jazbel went to speak with the entity inside his head, she grew quiet and studied him curiously as he spoke to it. WHen the music came out, she found herself, her mind transported to another world.

"It sounds enchanting," Ellarrah said dreamily as she sighed.  "Like times of old." SHe gave another dimpled smile, then blinked as she noticed the city on the horizon.
"Ah, a city." she licke dher dry lips. "Definitely a pleasing sight." She turned to Jazzy, hands to her hips. "Suppose we have a drinking contest tonight, love?" she inquired, grinning at him from ear to ear with that playful, whimsical look she always got when she wanted to drink beer and play darts... or.. something of the sort!

Just trouble!

"Yes," Jazbel agreed, deep in thought. 
He tried to remember what it was exactly that he played. It was a very beautiful piece- he could use it in the future, sometime. It would be a shame to forget it. 
"Oh ho," he  chuckled as Ellarrah challenged him to a drinking contest.
He shrugged, uncertain. He rather wanted to avoid excessive drinking if it meant another broken limb.
"I dunno, lass," he replied with a thin smile. "Mayhaps. And only if you pay for yourself."
Trouble was one of the last things he wanted!

Just as he had suspected, they arrived at Uthlyn an hour after the sun went down. They made their way towards an inn larger than the one in  Reajh. It was a colorful and cozy looking sort of place, with cushions lining the walls. The place was festive, with a roaring fire  and packed with people, both men and women alike as musicians played in the corner.
"A party?" he muttered, surprised.
Maybe they should go to a different inn, though they'd blend in perfectly in a place like this. Jazbel scanned the place, cautious. He would have to take time to ask around if the gang had been through these parts. He didn't doubt it. They'd have to be careful. He lead the way towards the bar, signaling for the barkeeper. In his stead, a young man - his son, no doubt- approached them.
"May I help you sir? M'lady?" he said, politely.
"A room for the night, please," Jazbel asked as he held up two fingers. "An' two mugs of ale, if you please."

For a brief moment, Ellarrah had left Jazbel's arm, but returned to him when he asked for the room and drink.
Planting her hand, smack on the counter, she smiled. "Make that three!" she gave Jazbel, a wink, knowing he was the one that told her she could drink as muhc as she wanted, so long it was on her own coin!
No body ever stated it wasn't ok if it wasn't stolen coin. But once stolen, it was technically hers!

"And keep those rounds coming if you know what's good for you!" Ellarrah chirped, winking a bit at the cute, youthful inn keeper's son before hitching her arm to Jazzy's.
"Come, let's go get drunk!' she said, hefting two drinks in her hand and smiling all the wider as they took their seats.

"Looks like there's a real party in the house here, eh?"

Jazbel was more or less oblivious to Elllarrah's plotting for coin.
"Aye," he agreed, double checking over his shoulder.
They're not here, don't worry, he told himself, tapping his foot to the beat of the musicians' tune.
"There seems to be," Jazbel muttered at his companion's question. He rapted his knuckles against the wood of the bar as the boy delivered them their drinks.

"Oi," he said. "What's all of this about?"
"You don't know?" the boy replied, surprised.
"We're not from here," Jazbel pointed out.
"Oh. A harvest festival."
Jazbel nodded, sagely.
"I see."

He felt a little more secure by this. Everything would be busy; outsiders like them wouldn't stick out so much.
"Well then," he said in good spirits as he lifted his glass to Ellarrah.
"Shall we partake?"
Before waiting for her to answer, he started to gulp down his ale.

"Free booze, dancing and music?" Ellarrah questioned and took back a swig.
"You can count me in for all of that, love!" She winked towards her companion, already well into her second drink as she giggle, becoming even more bubbly when sweet-onion tarts and berry creams were served. "Ohhhh!" it was almost as if little hearts were bubbling from her form as she helped herself to a handful of snacks. Stuffing her face, she turned to Jazzy. "It looks like we've found ourselves in a pinch of luck, love!" and after satisfying herself with the treats, she stood up and proposed. "Come on, Jazzy! Let's dance!"
Taking his hands, she yanked him out onto the dance floor, twirling with him happily and carefree, not having any other care in the world that she might be misstepping or twirling into one or the other as she laughed.

"Cheers," Jazbel said cheerfully as he clicked his mug with Ellarrah's. He questioned what she meant by 'free booze,' but didn't dwell on the matter. After all, there was free food being passed around. As Ellarrah did, Jazbel picked out an ampleamount of the treats that were before them. The people didn't seem to mind, not too much. The city was one big enough were practically everybody was strangers. Jazbel muttered his thanks before diving in. He would have replied respectfully to Ellarrah's joyus comment, but as his mouth was full of delicious things, Jazbel settled for muttering his agreement in incomprehensible words. After wolfing down his food, the man began to wash it down with the cool ale, when he was rudely interrupted by a jolt on the arm.

"Mmm!" he exclaimed, barely having enough time to take the mug away from his lips and place it backk on the counter. The mention of dancing caused Jazbel to go into a mild  state of panic. Well, he did dance. He just didn't expect to do so... well, now. At this moment. With this woman. Which, well, there was nothing wrong. Actually it might be quite pleasent, but he didn't know she could dance. Could she? Him. Dancing with her. Jazbel felt a little light headed.
"O-okay, m'lady," he replied with a chuckle, half stepping-skipping to the melody as he twirled around with the woman, keeping in time. Jazbel merrily laughed along with her as she misstepped once or twice. He reeled her in close as the song drew to an end, tapping her on the nose.
"Careful, dove," he said, teasingly.

The next dance was a group one, which involved frequently switching partners. It was a frenzy. Jazbel suddenly found a large and intoxicated beauty pulling and leading him away from Ellarrah. The man reacted in alarm, but locked eyes with the woman and gave a reassuring smile. They'd find each other, he knew as he spun the delightful lady around. By the middle of the song he had found himself partnered with several girls and was several away from Ellarrah. He was working his way closer to her... Though this world was quite different from the one of the labyrinth, the anxiety of separation, he found, still rested within.

OOC: stepping-skipping...idk the proper words, man. xD

OOC: D'awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww, cute post <3
but most of them are!
SUCH A CUTE PAIR!
A PAIR OF PEARS 8D~

IC:
Ellarrah was so happy, head bubbling, lips laughing as she twirled about, dancing with glee.  She was just as content with him as when she was pulled away into the excitement of the moment, entangling and twirling, being passed around throughout the crowd.  Dancing and stepping on toes here or there aside, she soon found herself at the far off end- so far away from Jazbel now it was as if she was in another world.
And she too, seemed to forget all things as she and her last partner crashed about at the end of the dance, falling into a pair of bar stools with delight.

Though her shameless flirts never came without a price, as Ellarrah found her laughter suddenly snuffed away as the man seemed to mount upon her, holding her thighs as she was leaned on top of a pair of stools while his mouth held onto her lips in a deep and drunken kiss.
The feeling bubbled within her, but she found her lips suddenly spurting, "Jazzy!" as she gasped, pushing the man up off of her with alarm.
"Eh? I said my name was Earl.." the young man told her, puckering up for another kiss.

"Eh?" Ellarrah blinked, making a most disgusted face as she moved to clobber him. "Get the 'ell offa me you slobbering drunk!' but when she moved to hit him, the bar stools beneath her gave out, as seh gave a shriek and toppled to the floor, the drunken boy on top of her already ready for another drink as his lips sealed over hers, body pressing Ellarrah to the floor.

OOC: THEY ARE THE JUCIEST PAIR OF PEARS THERE EVER WAS... what? xD Lol thanks. you too though.... I see what yo udid there with Earl. I KNOW.

IC:

Jazbel coaxed himself into having fun, a not so hard feat to do in a place like this. They weren't trapped in the prison, after all, and these women weren't so half bad looking., and he could still see Ellarrah... NO, he couldn't. Jazbel furrowed his brow as he crooked his head. He couldn't see the red head anywhere, she being obscured from his view. Truly anxious now, the distracted man gently pushed aside his next partner, who sullenly glared after him.
"Elle?" he called out, receiving no response.

Out of the corner of her eye, he saw her being lead away by some fair headed man. The mirth in Jazbel's eyes quickly dimmed, his expression somber.
"Excuse me," he muttered as he forced his way through the crowd. He knew the young woman was flirty, but a feeling in his gut told him that something was deeply wrong. Sure enough, when he finally found her, she was pressed on the floor, the slobbering drunk pressing his lips against hers. Jazbel made a face, revolted at his lack of class. He kicked the man hard in the gut. Jazbel's toes began to hurt, but the younger man  had drew back because of it, momentarily curling. Jazbel knew that this would give Ellarrah enough of an advantage to push him away, but he wasn't through with this stranger, quite yet. With hell in his eyes, Jazbel furiously punched the man in the face.
"Wha wash that forh?" the man sputtered, blood coming out of his mouth.
"She didn't ask you to kiss her, did she?" the older man calmly asked.
The blonde scowled.
"I can-"
"I thought not," Jazbel calmly interrupted, patting his cheak, which Earl slapped away, utterly embarrassed.
"She's with me, so I suggest you find yourself a lass more willing to have a bit of sport  before you find yourself on your arse in the street," Jazbel said, quite plainly.
" Word of advice."
Earl smirked, eyeing Jazbel, but whatever insult or conflict he had, he kept to himself. Still, his eyes were all betraying, and Jazbel felt embarrassed for the lad's sake.
Ah, youth, he thought.
Jazbel turned towards Ellarrah, offering her a hand.
"Are you alright, m'lady?" he asked, the warmth returning to his mannerisms.

Ellarrah gasped when the man was torn away from her, but even more surprised to find it was-
"Jazzy!" she exclaimed, and taking a moment to look over at the young bastard, she socked him clean int he teeth, then turned to Jazbel, throwing her arms around him as she cooed, "Look at you!" She kissed his cheek happily in the moment. "Givin' another man a fat lip for me, and here I used to make fun of you for not using a sword," she teased, finger twirling against his chest, her other arm hooked exclusively around his.

OOC: D'awwwwww <3 her knight in shining armor!

Jazbel wickedly grinned at her comment, his face aglow from the kiss.
"Oh I wouldn't know about that," he teased in a low voice as he boldly kissed her forehead. As he quietly observed the dazed youth in fetus position on the floor, Jazbel held Ellarrah tight in his arms. It was a little unnerving, to not hear a heart beat, but she was warm, alive, and (for now) safe.
"Let's go," he said, an arm easily slung around her waist as he escorted Ellarrah back towards the bar, where there was more drinks waiting and more hot, free snacks to pass around.

But nothing was ever truly free. Two wine bottles later, Jazbel found himself dragged into playing again to entertain audiences, at first joining in on the raunchy ditties and festive folk dances before shushing the crowd with the tune Eoki had 'taught' him on his shawm. There were a few differences as Jazbel tried to mimic it as best as he could, but it was effective.
"Maybe I can get meself some free drinks , too," Jazbel said cheerfully as he peeked Ellarrah's cheek. Tipsy, Jazbel mused this probably had not been the best idea, as now he had -really- made himself known.

OOC: Annnnd this will come and bite him in the ass...

OOC: Probably, and he's already got 'Miss Trouble maker' on his arm so... <3

IC:
Ellarrah clapped along with the rest of the crowd, cheering her friend on.
"Go, Jazzy!" as he captivated the crowd, not realizing a few darker look men were eyeing them from the crowd. When he came down and kissed her cheek, her eyes widened as she blushed, but then squealed at his comment.
"Why, you do know how to make a girl blush!"s he said, already too intoxicated for her own good as she grabbed Jazbel by the collar of his shirt and yanked him in for a heart, hungry kiss.

That's when the booze showed up as she suddenly dropped her friend.
"MORE BEER!" her eyes sparkled like diamonds as she yanked it from the bar maid's arms, spilling half the content onto her and glistening her- er- brea-er-chest, with beer!

Laughing, she offered one to Jazzy.
"Let's see who can drink their's the fastest, eh?" and before she'd give him the chance, she laughed and tossed her head back, guzzling the thing down like a thirsty horse, smacking her lips at the end with a satisfied sigh.

Jazbel had seen and been through plenty of surprises, but as Ellarrah reeled him in, her lips pressed his, he found none of them quite as delightful as this one. Dazed, he almost fell out of his seat as Ellarrah dismissed him for booze. Jazbel grabbed on the ledge of the table puzzled. He was not sure how to quite make out what just happened and whether or not he should have been insulted. All was forgiven as the lady gave him a mug of beer.

Jazbel nodded at the challenge, but scowled as she started to drink without warning. He was about to protest, but decided to just go with it, throw his head back, and followed suit. Jazbel lost, but only slightly. He banged his mug down with a gasp.
"You cheated!" he protested. As the innkeeper gave them another round, Jazbel beckoned for a nearby pleasant face woman.
"Sweetheart, could you do us a favor?" he asked sweetly.
"My friend and I are having a bit o' a competition to see who can drink faster and longer, but we need someone to tell us when to go. Do you understand?"
She nodded eagerly. Jazbel smugly grinned.
"Good girl," he said, turning towards Ellarrah.
"On her count, then, love," he said as he clinked his mug against hers.
A small crowd began to form around the trio once they saw the girl count down from three.
"...Go!" she instructed.
Jazbel expertly chugged his down.
And so it began!

Four rounds in, and Ellarrah exploded into a laughter of glee.
"Now we're tied again, love!" she told him, clinking her glass to the table and wiping her mouth over the back of her hand. The world spinning about with fun.
She went to stand, giggling as she asked, "Now we should play a round of darts to see who can hit the largest man int he room, first!" And despite herself, her legs gave way, her body spilling into Jazzy's arm as she laughed and laughed.

"Oh my Gods, Jazzy, "she laughed again. "This is so much fun!" and she found herself kissing him suddenly again, before she slipped away, laughing into a snort and nearly laughing out of his lap, arm sinking to the floor.
"God... I think I'm seeing things. There are three of you, love," the woman said, reaching up a hand to stroke through the multiple images she was seeing of her friend.

"Oh, aye?" Jazbel asked, chuckling.
He wasn't keeping count. Jazbel was pretty sure he had forgotten how to count, his mind really didn't want to focus on stupid things like numbers at the moment.  He was truly tipsy now, he realized. Much more and he'd be done. In any case, the counting was why they had the lovely and nice girl for. What was her name...? No, it didn't really matter. He tapped her shoulder.
"Heeey," he started to ask, but then stopped in alarm as he listened to Ellarrah struck up a challenge.
"Oh, no!" he protested, waving his arms. "No, nope, no, no, no... oopf!"

Jazbel grunted as Ellarrah collapsed into his arms, wrapping his own around her belly.
"Do you admit your defeat?" he teased in a low voice as she leaned in to kiss him.
Gods, but she was long gone. Jazbel smiled. There was something childlike and pure in the way she smiled and laughed, despite it not be so innocent. He kissed her gently on the forehead, playing with her hair.
"Three?" Jazbel asked, letting her fingers clumsily touch his face.
"You're definately done, sweetheart. Oh."
He took a hand and moved it away from touching his eye. Jazbel rose to his feet, keeping Ellarrah in his arms. He swayed a little, holding onto the counter for extra support.
"All right, Elle. Let's go to sleep,," he suggested as he gave their scorekeeper his thanks, paid the innkeeper, and lead the way towards the stairs.

Ellarrah couldn't help but laugh as she was guided away.
"But we were just having fun!" she giggled, legs a mess of movement as they went, arms clutching onto him, laughter ringing clearly as a bell into his ear, and once they found themselves inside the room, she giggled and pulled him towards the bed, having them both falling onto it as she suddenly pressed her lips to his in a kiss.
"Oh, Jazzy.." she seemed to purr, green eyes leering him as she tried to caress his face..

only she missed as she smiled broadly, drunkenly...

"My knight in shining armor." and she leaned forward to kiss him again...

only.. again, she missed and collapsed onto his chest..
and a moment later, she was snoring contentedly against him.

Along with all the gear Jazbel was carrying, Ellarrah's weight was heavy. Her squirming aroun didn't help much, either. Neither did his vision. Jazbel stumbled up the stairs, grasping the stairs for his dear life. He could see Eoki in the corner of his mind, sniggering. Or were they on the stairs in front of him? It was hard to tell. Jazbel thought he was swimming. One way or another, though, they made it inside the room. Jazbel clumsily shrugged his things off onto a chair by the bed as Ellarrah pulled him to the bed, collapsing on top of him.

Jazbel gave a lopsided smile as he stared into those emerald eyes,  with a light in them that was akin to the bright sun green on green fields... Somewhere, he could see Eoki smirk. It was rather disturbing, and Jazbel pushed them as far away as he could
You have no sense of poetry, he said to the diety, who was wise enough not to reply.
Elllarrah called him a knight.
"Am I , now?" he muttered, kissing Ellarrah fondly before she fell asleep.
Once more did Jazbel found himself in a state of surprise, but he only sadly smiled.
You poor drunkard, he thought as he gently rolled Ellarrah on her back, took off her shoes, and tucked her in under the covers. He kissed her once more upon the forehead and crawled into the  covers next to her. Sleep quickly took him.

Jazbel woke up with a hand covering his mouth and another roughly around his waist. His eyes bolted open as he was dragged out of the bed. Men surrounded the bed, rough looking ones with mean looks in their eyes. Jazbel recognized them as the ones from before. Damnit, they've been found.
How? Jazbel thought in a state of desperate panic as he tried to kick off his aduptors, but they were too strong. His eyes trailed towards Ellarrah, who was still in her drunken slumber. It was not yet sunrise. How?
He bit the man's hand, which recoiled immediately.
"Elle!" Jazbel managed to cry out before a rag was placed in his mouth and all went dark, again.

She gasped, water filling her lungs when they forced her beneath the putrid waters, bubbles deafening her ears, and after she thought she couldn't' swallow any more water, they dragged her out again by her hair. Coughing out a fit, Ellarrah growled angrily at the large man who held her by her skull.

"I told you I have on idea what you are talking about!" the woman wailed, but Asven Rednet was not pleased.

"Perhaps you don't understand the severity of your actions." the woman snapped her fingers and Ellarrah's face was shoved into the waters again.
She tried to scream, but only took in more waters, lips sputtering, spewing, before she found herself inhaling more waters again...

Drawn out again, Ellarrah barely had time to catch her breath when Rednet motioned for the larger man to drop her. He obeyed, and Ellarrah crumpled to the floor, but a moment later, the man had her by the hair again, a large blade at her throat.

"I told you what I know already!" Ellarrah said after releasing another gasp. She would have shaken her head, but she merely trembled with fear. "The puzzle sphere didn't open to some treasure. It took us both inside! Cursed us even! You'd be better for it not to have it!"

Rednet only scowled.

"So you did mess with the sphere!" And with anger welling behind it, she socked Ellarrah clean into the gut.

Ellarrah was about ready to wretch out all of the booze from the night before as she grimaced from the blow.
"We... we didn't mean to..." Ellarrah began, but Rednet silenced her with another punch to the gut.

"Bring the other one in," and she snapped her fingers, hoping the men would make haste to bring Jazbel in, who was dragged into the room, a bag over his head and dumped infront of the trough of putrid waters.
Yanking off the mask, Rednet scowled over at him.

It was at the sight of Jazbel Ellarah gasped, "Jazzy!" but she was quickly subdued, the larger man snatching onto her hair as she let out a cry of pain, which was soon muffled by his large hand.




OOC: Hope this works XD~
and makes sense D:

OOC: You're transparently clear, no need to worry :P
IC:

Neither dead or alive. A cruel fate...
Jazbel hadn't gotten it, then. But now,  in a separate room from Ellarrah, Jazbel struggled to stay awake. His  forehead pressed against a pole that he was tied to, Jazbel had a pretty decent idea. His back burned from the lashes of a whip. Jazbel didn't know how many times he had been hit. Fifteen? Twenty? He had howled into his gag, but that was now over. It was being removed by a man with  skin the color of dunes with rough hands and a glare full of suspicion. He was large with memories of many fights slashed across his ugly face and torso, his hair and beard dark. Jazbel concluded that his eyes were much too small for his head, but they were mean. He was Rednet's second hand man, that Jazbel knew.  The man smiled in a sickeningly sweet way before punching Jazbel in the face. It wasn't the first time he had- his cheek was swollen, but there was  no bruise.

"I saw you before," he jeered. "You had blood on your face, then. Now there is nothing."
Jazbel only blinked, tears hot on his cheeks.
Rednet's man hit Jazbel hard in the face again. The man cried out, his legs shaking. He couldn't bare to stand, but no mercy was given. His throat was roughly grabbed as the man glared at him.
"Ellarrah," Jazbel choked out.
"Don't focus on your whore, focus on me, thief! ," the man snapped back, squeezing it a little.
Jazbel had never felt  so frail or naked or  little, before.
"Let's try this again," the man jeered as he untied Jazbel from the pole and threw him onto the ground.

"Don't give me that djinn crap! Are you seriously telling me that a djinn lured you into the puzzle?"
Coughing, Jazbel weakly nodded, rubbing his throat. He tried to grab his shirt which laid discarded on the ground, but the giant man gruffly kicked him in the lungs.
"Horse shit," he grumbled. "Who told you that you had the right to steal the puzzle?! Who?"
Jazbel managed to wring out a smirk.
"I wanted it. Treasure," he lied.
This check earned him another hard kick. Jazbel curled up into a ball on the ground, tilting his head up to sneer at his tormentor.
"You're lying!" Asvan's man roared. "That puzzle was secret information! How'd you learn about it? Someone must have hired you to steal it. Who?"
"I have... good ears... and wickedly fine tastes," Jazbel said between gasps of agony.
The man squatted down to squeeze Jazbel's throat, causing him to gasp and sputter. Jazbel tried to fight him off, but he had lost too much energy.
"Listen," the man said in a dark and quiet tone.
"If you don't tell me who, then I will be forced to do some very unpleasant things to your friend."

Jazbel froze, fear blazing in his eyes. The man meant it, every word. His grip loosened around Jazbel's neck. Jazbel sputtered, gasping for air as he shut his eyes tightly.
Stay awake.
"It was me. And the djinn," he lied as convincingly as he could.
"She cursed me.... us.  She lured us to the puzzle and cursed us, that's why I can't bleed. That's why..."
Jazbel groaned as he closed his eyes,  darkness overtaking him.

---

He wasn't asleep. Perhaps it had been Eoki's power, but Jazbel remained conscious, if not numbed as his body was dragged in the darkness. Suddenly, the bag was removed from his head and light was revealed. He heard the sound of his name, face flat on the ground, his torn flesh with the unusual lack of blood displayed. His hands were bond, again, behind his back this time.  His eyes, one now almost closed shut from the beating, narrowly opened to find Ellarrah being held back.
Oh, Kia....
Jazbel's jaw hardened as he struggled to sit up.
"Elle," he whispered before glaring up at Rednet.

She sniggered at the pathetic sight of him, holding out the palm of her hand towards the dark haired man. He placed the sphere in it.
"It was in his belongings, ma'am," he said.
She curtly nodded.
"Thank you, Cham," Rednet replied before addressing Jazbel.
"Your girl  has been entertaining us with rather amusing stories," she said. "Tell me, what's inside this puzzle that cursed you so?"
"Said it was a djinn," Cham said.
Rednet arched her brow at this as Jazbel nodded.
"A djinn?" she said before bursting into ear piercing laughter.
Rednet smiled wickedly. tapping the man who was restraining Ellarrah on the arm.
"Get out your knife," she muttered as she walked over to Jazbel. The man pressed it against Ellarrah's throat.

Jazbel growled.
"She did!" he bellowed, "The djinn... She's in the puzzle, I swear. I-"
Rednet nodded, almost sympathetically as she ran a hand through his hair.
"It's okay. I believe you," she said before dramatically pausing.
"You could have stolen money or weapons, but instead you choose to steal only the puzzle," she growled. "You two aren't mere thieves. You stole with a purpose. Whose?"
Chem related the story Jazbel told him. Rednet rolled her eyes.
"And you bought that? Hey!"
Rednet gestured towards Ellarrah. Her lackey brought the captive Ellarrah to a table and tried to force her hand flat on it.
"Lying Thieves get their fingers cut off. You have ten seconds to refresh your memory, or I'm cutting off one of her pretty ones," Rednet said, looking up at Ellarrah. "It's  curious that he can't bleed, but I wonder if you can regrow bits. Nine seconds."

OOC: Okay, so I can change the threat if you want to >< In any case it doesn't actually have to happen, either. Sorry for the wall of text ^.^;;

Ellarrah wanted to scream out, to champion their cause, but the man's hand sealed around her lips barely allowed her to breath through her nose. When the hand was drawn away, and she, forced over the table, she gasped, realizing where the knife was hoovering, threatening to take her fingers away.

She let out a gasp, a cry.

"N-no! We've told you what you want!" she screamed.  "We could even show you how to get into the damn puzzle box if you want an -" but the woman was smacked hard across the mouth, then her face slammed hard into the table.
Ellarrah was seeing weight, and also seeing a dizzy scene as the blade remained dangerously hoovering over her fingers and her body tense, bristled as she feared the worse.

"J-jazzy.."s he whispered weakly, pathetically, closing her eyes filling with the tears, bracing herself, just ready for the knife to take her finger (or fingers) away....

Jazbel grimaced as Ellarrah was slapped, a pain clinging to him that was so much more worse than the whip lashes, kicks, or punches. His jaw hardened. None of this was working. Poor Elle, she didn't know, but was it really worth keeping this secret? If it was just him, but her.... Gods, her.
Damnit, Jazbel thought.
It didn't matter, anymore. Noki would be after his blood, anyway.
For a short while, Jazbel was silently as he kept his eyes looked on Ellarrah.
Stay strong, lass.

"Two..." Rednet said.
Jazbel weakly raised a hand.
"Noki," he whispered, defeated.
The woman shot her subordinates a triumphant look.
"I couldn't quite hear that," she said, driving the toe of her shoe into one of his open wounds.
Jazbel felt he could throw up, right then and there. His eyes widened as his body tensed and shuddered.

"Noki!" he yelled, panting for breath as she pulled away. "Lady... Noki. The puzzle is rightfully hers."
Rednet chuckled.
"That so?" she replied. "So she hired you to find me?"
Jazbel nodded. HIs posture eased when her lackley removed the knife,  though he still kept Ellarrah pushed on the table.
"So that djinn horse shit-" Asven began to start but Jazbel interrupted.
"She's real. She'll curse you," he spat.
I really hope she does.
Asven waved a hand, dismissing this information as she sat on the table, turning the puzzle in her fingers.
"Take them to the cells," she said. "We may have use for them, yet."

Jazbel tried to keep his eyes on Ellarrah as long as he could as the men made him struggle to his feet and hide his face in the sack, again.

When the knife was taken away, Ellarrah couldn't help herself but fall into a fit of sobs.  SHe was silence, however, as a bag was tossed over her own head, and she.. she was dragged away.

It wasn't until later that she realized she was tied to a post- and after lifting her groggy head, hair a mess, well, wild and more unruly than usual, as her green eyes glanced about the room.
"J-jazzy?" she tried to look for him, but a noise behind her made her eyes widen in shock.
"Jaz!?" she tried to turn around, hoping the thing or man, tied behind her was him.
"Jazbel-... is that you!?" she whispered, lower lip trembling as she failed at an attempt to hold her breath to listen for their reply.

She didn't know it, but hte two were tied back to back to that post, both inside a dimly lit cell, in a very dimly lit situation.

Jazbel had  drifted in  and out of consciousnesses as he was dragged and tossed into the cell before being tied to the post. It was quiet, now, though dark.  Was it still night or the next afternoon? Maybe the day had come and passed, already. Time had stopped still. Jazbel bowed his head forward with a moan. He wanted to sleep, but sitting up right, perfectly upright, was the only way to keep his back from hurting more than it had to. In the  back of his mind, Jazbel was vaguely aware of Eoki trying to talk to him.
Go away, he thought, I want to sleep.
The deity was persistent.
It's close.

Jazbel's eyes shot open.
"What?" he muttered.
The fountain. It's somewhere here.
Shocked, Jazbel stared off into the darkness.
Out of all the damned places....
Jazbel began to chuckle, but stopped, shuddering as pain rippled down his back.  He groaned, turning his head.
"Elle," he whispered. "The fountain is somewhere in this building."
Aren't we lucky.

"Oh, Jazzy, thank the god's it's you!" Ellarrah cried, but then as she listened to his statement, her face twisted in surprise. She tried to turn to look at him, but she could barely make out his form in the corner of her eye, and her wild red hair wasn't helping matters either.

"You can't be serious!" She exclaimed, her lips open, slowly shaking her head at the idea.
"That would be our luck."s he muttered. "To be so close to the mountain when it's so far out of reach." She groaned, hanging her head, but then slowly lifted it as she tried to stare back at him, tossing her head in attempts to remove the wild locks from it.
"How is your back?" she asked, hesitantly. "How.. how do you feel? What did they do to you? I heard your screams.."s he held her breath, waiting, but she feared the volume of her heart beat might drown out his reply.

Jazbel humerously smirked at Ellarrah's statement.
Isn't that the truth.
His mouth became dry at her questions.
She could hear? he thought, his chest clutching.  He couldn't hear her, before, but if she could hear him... Elle didn't need to hear that. Hell, she shouldn't have been here. This  shouldn't have had happened!

Jazbel gritted his teeth, grateful for the dark. Ellarrah couldn't see his body tremer, his face growing hot. He tried to smile, as if she could see it.
"Did it scare you? I'm sorry you had to hear that," he whispered soothingly.
He tried to keep his voice steady.
"It's nothing I can't handle, love. Don't worry. "

It hurt like hell, but Jazbel wasn't about to tell her what they did or how it felt. She didn't need to know that. Jazbel whistled through his teeth.
"I, there was no blood," he said bitterly, almost to himself. "Are we even still human?"
He tried to see her face, but it was difficult in the dark. Was that an arm? A leg?
"Ellarrah, what about you?" he said, a hard edge forming on his voice.
"They didn't hurt you, did they?"

"Just a little rough and tumble," she informed him. "And the fact they tried to drown me." Her voice sounded almost playful as she continued to reply, "Nothing I couldn't handle."
So they both tried to play tough, but it was evident they were both hurt.

"I suppose.. lack of blood is the ultimate result of us losing our hearts."
Ellarrah frowned at the idea, staring out into the darkness before hse moved again, trying to see him.
"We have to get out of here. To find some means to escape."s he struggled though after a time, she fell limp and panted while she sagged against their confines.
"God damn criminals. You'd think they'd know how to treat a lady,"s he  commented, almost mockingly, ubt her dry humor was lost on the bitterness of her tongue.

"You don't happen to have any tricks up your sleeve, do ya?" she inquired, trying to look back at him. "Or that voice inside your head. Does he have anything to say?"

Jazbel grunted at Ellarrah's response.
They tried to do what?!
He shifted in his bonds, but stopped resisting, panting for air, his breath heavy and ragged. He could hear the hurt in her voice, but  he said nothing. Instead, he listened to her theory about their blood. He didn't know what to think about this. He tried to feel his heart beat, but that was stupid, he knew it wasn't there. But he could feel something, like a phantom. Yes, that happened, right, when people lost limbs? They could still feel them.  Jazbel didn't want to think about it too much, not now. He was exhausted and could barely move. Though he knew they needed to get out of here, there was no fight in him.  He listened to her, on the other end of the pole, ropes rustling.
You can't do it, he thought dully, closing his eyelids. 

"Did you really expect better?" Jazbel darkly pointed out, sighing at her question.
Nothing immediately came to Jazbel's mind, but he thought he had a fairly good idea about how things were going to happen.
"Unless you can reach something sharp, we're stuck here for the night, lass," he said.

Ellarrah sighed in disgust as she wilted within her confines.
"Ugh, and here I thought they'd serve us tea and cake." Her face sagged as she frowned, not knowing what else to do with herself as she grew restless.
"Well, I don't like this one but. There has to be something we can do!" she griped, struggling again against the ropes. She did, after all, hate being in confined spaces and felt - well.. if she had her heart, it might be racing. But she struggled none the less, sweat breaking out on her skin, even a flush, however that might work before she finally sighed and gave up with a grunt.
"I don't want to be all tied up!" she cried, eyes brewing with frustrated tears.
"It's almost as bad as being confined in a small space! Ugh!"

"S'lovely," Jazbel muttered in agreement to the tea and cake.
Especially the tea. He didn't think he had the stomach for food, right now, but he desperately needed something. His throat was parched. Jazbel silently listened to her complaints, hopeless.
Curses, he thought. In their crisis, her fear of small spaces had clearly slipped his mind.
Ellarrah, you're not a child anymore.

Jazbel moaned, but he knew his frustration was ill placed. She couldn't help it. If he wasn't so exhausted, he would have panicked, himself.  He didn't want to be tied up either, but he didn't know any way out. Break their thumbs? But how far could they go? Jazbel knew he couldn't go anywhere, not in the state he was in. Maybe Ellarrah could, but the selfish part of him didn't want them to be separated, no matter what. 
"Don't panic, Elle. Don't pay attention to the dark. Listen to me," he said in a half asleep murmur.
"I'm here. I'll talk until you sleep, if you'd like. "

Ellarrah wrestled a little more before settling back against he pole in a slump.
"I guess we really have no other choice,"s he said dismally, trying to ignore the tears piercing her eyes.
"But I guess I should be thankful we're alive." she sighed, then after a time, she tried to turn to Jazzy, speaking more softly, "What do you think they'll do to us?" she held her breath, then added, "And thank you for squealing for me. I.."s he felt her voice break. "I kind of like having all of my fingers." She told him with a weak smile.

"Fraid not," Jazbel agreed.
In the dark, he nodded as she spoke. It was silent for a while, but if anxioty could be felt, he could practically touch it. He wondered if Elle was crying, though Jazbel knew she would never told him if she was. Jazbel sneezed, sniffling. He hadn't noticed it before, but it was cold in the cells, colder still that he had no shirt on. He flinched at Ellarrah's questions.
Why do you have to ask such things now?
He frowned as she thanked him.

"Don't thank me," Jazbel softly replied, drawing his knees up to his chest.
"I should have realized sooner that there was no point in keeping the Lady's name to myself."
Jazbel paused, thinking.
"They don't know we're not delivering the puzzle to her, though. It's probably best to keep Rednet on that trail. I don't know what they'll do to us but they can't kill us, eh?"
He chuckled bitterly at this. Jazbel found himself gaining hope, talking like this, so he continued.
"And the fountain is nearby, so Eoki will finally get out of my head and I can be myself again. And we'll have a deity by our side, maybe," he said softly.
You didn't ask, Eoki pointed out.
Jazbel rolled his eyes.
But if I must. IF you can get me out.

Ellarrah tried to smile, drawing her knees close to her chest as she sighed.
"I wonder what Eoki looks like,"s he said thoughtfully, staring up at the dark ceiling.
"I wonder if he's handsome." she teased, trying to lighten the mood, even though the effort was not entirely there in her voice.

Jazbel scoffed at Ellarrah's wonderings.
"I don't even know if Eoki is a he," Jazbel admitted, glad for the distraction. "They're engulfed in an ocean..."
He tried his best to describe the diety. The pale skin, the waves, their eyes...  However, every time Jazbel started up,, Eoki would correct Jazbel's word choice. They were very picky. Jazbel was growing frustrated. 
"In any case, what are you, anyway?" he muttered.
Eoki blinked in response.
Am I a man, you mean?
Yeah.

Eoki smirked.
You  limit yourself too much.
That was all. Jazbel scowled, utterly confused.
"They're not handsome, m'lady," he said, sullenly. "Horribly grotesque."
Says you, Eoki glowered.

Ellarrah gave a dry laugh.
"A pity," she said, chuckling again. "But I suppose that's alright. Can't be havin' my knight jealous now can we?" she jested, again, hoping to lighten the mood, despite the forcedness of her tone. She sighed.
"So is Eoki a beautiful woman? Perhaps I got some competition then," she said with a rueful grin. Forcing out fun in a situation was proving difficult, but it was at least a distraction-
and she was curious, indeed.
"Her hair like the ocean.. pale skin like the bottom of the sea- the white sands... "s he said dreamily.

"A pity?" Jazbel replied, forging insult.
He was bad at this game, too.
The man shook his head when she asked if Eoki was a woman.
"No, not that, either," he muttered with a sad smile.
Competition?

Eoki smiled at this, their waves rolling tranquilly.
"They say you're being absurd," Jazbel said.
"And not just hair. Their... clothes, I guess. You'll see, I promise."
Jazbel supposed it was a lovely and awesome sight, though it was one that he had been trying to ignore. The man yawned, way past his limit. He rested his head upon his knees. Jazbel was going to say something. Offer a story, perhaps or crack a joke- he had forgotten, his  mind was cloudy. He fell asleep.

"So it's formless?" Ellarrah replied out loud, voice echoing softly around them in the dark room.  "One that moves likes waves?" she tried to think about it, tried to imagine and that's when she realized all had gone silent.
"Jazzy?" she said after a time. But all was still. "Jazzy?" her voice came again, but when she heard his gentle breathing, she found herself releasing a sigh and staring out into the dark room, until her own eyes grew heavy and wearing, and she fell to the same fate as he. It was until she awoke with a start, her own nightmares creeping into her that she gave a thump against hte floor boards with her boot.

"Ah!" her eyes went wide into the darkness, but hten she settled again, realizing, as she pulled against her bonds that she was still secured to the pole. Wilting slightly, she kicked her foot again, then again.. and it was only on the third try she realized..

"The ground..."
It was hollow.
Excitement grew within her as she began to kick, then kick an dkick until her boot went through it and she flinched, hoping not to alert anyone with the noise.
"Jazzy!" she said in an excited, whisper of a hiss. "Jazzy, the floor!" she lifted her boot up and out of it, shards splintering across the floor.
"The floor boards beneath me are hollow! Check your side out! See if it's the same!"

THis was probably the first time either weak floor boards were a good thing, or rather, rotted ones might save the day!

"HA!"
Jazbel woke with a start, sweat running down his brow as Ellarrah slammed her boot through the floor.
"Elle?" he croaked back. "What are you doing?!"
He listened to the woman in awed silence.
"Are you serious?" Jazbel muttered. Was such a thing even possible?
Skeptical, Jazbel thumped the floor with his right shoe. Elle was right- it was hollow!
"Huh," he muttered.

He lifted his head, listening in case someone was on their way. They were alone, for now. Jazbel quickly joined Ellarrah in stomping away at the floorboards.  Miraculously, the pain on his back had dulled. He didn't know how this was possible, but Jazbel didn't question his good fortune, now. Out snapped a floorboard, quickly followed by another! A daft emerged from underground.
A path? he wondered, staring down at the abyss.
Well, this was great. But how were they going to cut free?

Before he could answer that question, he heard the thump of boots, the jingling of keys, and the opening of a door. And then Jazbel knew what to do.
"Elle," he whispered in excitement, before whoever it was coul hear.
"We can use them! We can-"
"What the hell is goin on here?!"
It was the cruel darkbeard man from before.

It took a lot of wriggling, and a lot of awkward motion, but using heavy blows from her heel, Ellarrah began to break and crack a few more of the floor boards- when suddenly she gave a cry of alarm when the floor board supporting the post they were tied to suddenly up lifted, teeter tottering the pair of them up into the air until it finally lurched towards Ellarrah, the weight pressing onto her and kicking Jazebl up into the air so that his legs were dangling, and hers were not-

ANd just as the men opened the door....

They'd find themselves staring at a very curious situation-
For in the middle of the floor Ellarrah remained on her haunches, piggy backing apost she was tied to, and Jazbel, who was tied to it as well, hovering up in the air wtih his feet dangling back- and two sharp sides of the broken floor board it had somehow been removed from-

"Oh, Angsar's balls, they're back!" Ellarrah grunted, but the weight seemed all too much as the floor boards groaned beneath them. And it was then the men finally decided to take action, rushing towards them as Ellarrah gave a start, but seeing where the men were situated, she threw back her shoulders, and now all of the weight shifted back onto Jazbel-

"Jazbel, keep your feet ready for a land!" she commanded, and he would find himself landing with enough force to send the opposing ends of the floor boards they were on sailing UP between the two approaching men's legs.


And the two men went down with a whimper, crumpling to the floor.

Spinning around after she managed to get her legs back onto the ground, ELlarrah gave a cry of glee at her achievement.
"We did it Jazzy, we did it!"

SHHHHHHLTTTTNTK!

And suddenly  dagger sunk into the pole that still held the two pair tied together.
Ellarrah tried to look over at Jazzy as she panic and cried the obvious,
"They've got bloody knives!"


OOC: Hope this is ok XD the situation sorta.. made for a CCed moment, but I can edit that out and we can write a take off from a different place during this event XD

I just was playing with the idea of them teetertottering back and forth and playing wtih the loose floor boards to add some fun, but now we can add in the awkward ness of them fighting against armed men while still tied to a pole- back to back and.. yeah XD


Also I hope the post makes sense XD ugh, I shouldn't try to write complex actions at like 2 in the morning >>

Jazbel could not begin to comprehend what the hell was going on. As Ellarrah kicked off, their floorboard  balanced, perhaps by fate, on the panels of wood that supported the ceiling beneath them. With the light shining into the cell, Jazbel could see now that they were tied to a thin whipping post. They were in, he realized, the same room he had been before. The thought of it almost made him as sick as the movements.
"Make it stop!" he pleaded as he disparately tried to grin his heels into the firmly, staying-in-put floor, but that wasn't working.

To make matters worse, Rednet's men decided taht this was the perfect time to attack. The man prepared himself to at least kick someone, but, as always, Ellarrah caught him off guard.
"What?" he asked when suddenly one of the floorboards beneath them violently snapped. With one board  gone from the few the pole was built on, it  began to sway, giving Jazbel the impression that they were on a ship.

Jazbel's head was spinning, his body aching and hurting all over. He was almost in tears.
I'm a wounded man, Elle, he thought. Take it easy on me!
"We did what now?" he asked weakly as a dagger landed by his face.
He was surprised, but turned back to face the others with a very determined and angry look.T

"Keep doing what you were doing before!" he instructed, pounding on the floor boards beneath his feet. Another knife buried itself into his shoulder, and Jazbel cried out, but he kept kicking. Then the floor board violently snapped and down the two fell, into an abyss.... The pole fell at a vicious speed, the rush new and complete to Jazbel as it shot straight down. Two seconds later, it cracked against   the surface of a floor and fell with a thunderous sound to, thankfully, the side. Jazbel craned his neck and pulled the knife out of his shoulder with his teeth. With a groan, he  began to wildly hack away at the ropes while Rednet's men tried to figure out a way to get down.                         

Everything turned to chaos when everything turned to rain...

or.. more to the point, it was actually simply raining shards of wood EVERYWHERE as the pair went crashing through the ground. It would have happened at one point or another, and perhaps they were lucky it happened then.

After all, the men had knives!

Crumpling to the ground, Ellarrah let out a noise, and it took a moment for the shock to wear off as she lifted her head up and turned to Jazzy, noting him cutting at the rope.
"You've got a knife!" she cried, gleefully. Finally, something positive! "Hurry up adn cut us loose, Jazzy, I'm starting to get real antsy." She shook her head, kicking out the dust and wood chips from it. "And I think I got wood bits up my nose!" She made a face of disgust, then peered up through the dust at the men scrambling frantically int he world above.

"And I don't think it'll take much longer for them to reach us down here, neither."
The men were FURIOUS.

Having a knife between one's teeth made it difficult to converse. Jazbel didn't dare to so much as grunt at Ellarrah's encouragement, frightened that he would drop the knife. Instead, her words only encouraged her to cut away faster. Bit by bit, the ropes became thinner until they finally cut loose. Jazbel spat the knife out of his mouth, the metallic taste bitter on his tongue. He scrambled over to Ellarrah and helped the woman remove her ropes. Curious about the state of his back, Jazbel looked over his shoulder.
"Just scars," he muttered, amazed by the immaculate recovery.  He could almost feel them healing.
Consider it a perk, Eoki said.

Jazbel didn't know how to reply as he snorted out dust from his nose. He tried to ignore the shouts above.
"Where do we go?"  he muttered.
He could barely see past his fingers.
To your left.

How do you-?
Just do it!
"Fine," Jazbel grumbled as he grabbed Ellarrah's hand.
"Stick with me, love," he whispered as he sprinted into the tunnel.

It was cool and damp. Their footsteps echoed in the tunnel. Jazbel tried to keep his footsteps light. The men's voices had dimmed, but Jazbel knew it  was only temporally. A sweet scent lingered in the air, one that Jazbel thought it strange to be here. Caves didn't usually smell like rose gardens. A noise boomed behind them as the first of the men leapt into the cave. Jazbel picked up the pace.

Once unbound, Ellarrah let out a cry of elation as she rubbed at her wrists.
"Oh, thank the Gods," she said, hugging him tightly before glancing at his back with a frown. "Do they hurt?" she stared at him as he commented on them turning into just scars. She would have felt her heart flutter, or even pulse a little faster, but it was no longer there-

It still felt strange. Perhaps she'd never get used to it.
But then before she knew it, they were off and running about, and she was keeping up the pace easily when she heard the men behind them begin their pursuit.

"So, which way are we going?"s he whispered in a hiss, keeping one hand forward, cautiously, to ensure she didn't smack right into something. But hten she smelled the scent as well and gave a start.
"It smells like a garden down here,"s he stammered. "Do you smell that too?" she asked, voice whispering in a soft hiss between them.

"After them!" came a voice as Ellarrah jumped in alarm, smashing unceremoniously into Jazzy as she prodded him. "Let's move! Move! Move! The men are already down here!"and she pushed and shook his shoulder and asked."Does that voice inside your head have any suggestions!? Or am I to assume we should just bloody follow our nose?"

Jazbel had no idea where they were going. He told Ellarrah so.
"Yeah," he whispered when she commented on the smell of the cave. It was utterly bizarre and rather unsettled his nerves. He rubbed his shoulder with a grimace. The wound would no doubt heal just as quickly as his back was, but that still didn't cancel out the pain. He flinched as their persuers voices echoed in the halls, their voices growing louder. Eoki told him to go right.

Jazbel nodded in the dark as he ran faster, his grasp tighter on her wrist. It was like they were back in the maze, again, only this time, they had the answers. He ran as fast as he could, but Jazbel knew that Rednet's men were picking up pursuit. They didn't have much longer before they were captured again.
We just need enough time....

A soft, blue light emerged ahead.
The fountain.
It resided in a small, rounded room with flowers of crystal and rock growing on the walls. It was their scent, Jazbel realized, was what they had been smelling. The fountain looked exactly like it did in the picture, except, perhaps, newer.
"Elle, we made it," he said in awe.
He didn't know if it was possible to believe it.
You're not quite there yet, he reminded himself.

An arrow wizzed past them, hitting a wall.
"Don't move!" a gruff voice shouted.

As they ran, her heart was pumping- well, if she still HAD her heart, it would be pumping. A turn here, a turn there and then-
a blue light hummed on the horizon.
Her eyes went wide as it melted into view.
"Jazzy.." Ellarrah whispered, eyes going wide in surprise. "It's.. beautiful." she found her legs ever slowing, becoming mesmerized by the thing when an arrow suddenly sailed past them-
and then her eyes were widening for a completely different reason as a second one sank right into her heart..
"J-jazzy.." her fingers slipped away from his, body crumpling towards the ground.

Jazbel's throat ran dry as he quickly scooped up the fallen Ellarrah in his arms.
She's not dead. She couldn't be. If he couldn't bleed, if they had no heart... They can't die, Eoki said they can't die. Yet even so, fear and grief welled up inside of the man as he held Ellarrah's limp body to his own.
Please don't be dead.

With her in his arms, Jazbel began to run. It was, all things considered, possibly a bad idea. Her weight hindered him, and the men were catching up fast. He was only yards away from the fountain... Jazbel pushed himself. Arrows flew. He felt one bury itself into his back. He cried out and fell.
I can still make it, he thought through gritted teeth as he crawled and then stood up. Jazbel stumbled toward the fountain and collapsed by its side, a hand reaching into the wates. The men were at the mouth of the room, their swords drawn and bows ready. Jazbel shuddered. It wasn't death he feared- it was the pain that came with  being pushed beyond the limits, and he didn't want that for himself or Ellarrah. He reached in and before they could do or say anything, his eyes locked with theirs, Jazbel drank. Somewhere, inside his head, Eoki was muttering something. A prayer? A spell?

It started subtly. The men charged in and Elle was in his lap. Jazbel calmly awaited them. He didn't dare pull the arrow out of Elle's back ;the arrow head would just be stuck. They needed a physician. Or magic.
"Come with us," one grunted ,but then the waters started to rise. Slowly, at first, but then water burst forth from the fountain and Jazbel clung to Ellarrah as they were engulfed underwater. He thought they were drowning...

He began trashing violently in the water. He felt as if he were on fire, his body splitting in two. Then, he stopped and gawked at the sight in front of him. There stood Eoki, tall and powerful in light blue skin and robes that were the ocean. The second thing he noticed that he wasn't drowning- him and Elle were engulfed in a giant bubble.
"Whoa," he muttered, looking up at the diety who glared down at the two with giant , black eyes.
"Told you so."

Despite not having a heart, it hurt a heck of a lot to have an arrow through where your heart ought to be-
and a death blow, though towards someone, especially one to new to the business of immortality, it was pretty costly in it's effects as she remained, limp in Jazbel's arms.

It was during the chaos of water and spells that her green eyes finally opened, and went wide in shock as light, water and power enveloped them, nearly blinding her with fright, and then there, before them- in a dizzying array of majesty stood the creature Eoki.


"Oh... my... God..."
Ellarrah's lips fell open as all she could simply do was stare, her mind reeling as she barely fought the urge to faint.

Jazbel was momentary distracted from Eoki when Ellarrah's eyes fluttered opened. He squeezed his shoulders, even though the movement killed him, his back hurt so. Jazbel could feel his eyes becoming wet, though he  brushed it off as the water that surrounded them.
"Hang in there," he muttered, though his voice was muffled by the sound of  rushing water. Jazbel could hear the men scream in the darkness.  It was hard to make out what was going on in the chilled darkness. The men were being swept away by a fury tempest of Eoki's device, and Jazbel clung to Ellarrah. Though they were in the safety of a tunnel, Jazbel could feel the walls of the building began to shake and crumble. Jazbel shuddered, grateful that he was not on the other side of Eoki's wrath.

Jazbel expected everything to wash away. What he didn't expect was the water to go back in reverse, taking the debris and gold, with it back into the fountain.  He turned towards Eoki with wide eyes. The diety ignored him, their hand gently touching the arrow on Ellarrah's chest.
"Can you heal her?" Jazbel croaked.
The diety tilted their head.
"Why should I? You two can heal on your own," they said, but muttered a spell as they waved their hand over Ellarrah's chest, the arrow disappearing, though the wound remained. He did the same for Jazbel.
"There," they said with a nod.
"Thank you-" Jazbel said, but frowned when the deity held out their hands.
Eoki rolled their eyes at Jazbel's questioning look.
"I have to leave soon," they snapped, "And you haven't much time yourself. Now are you going to give me a weapon to magic, or not?"

Ellarrah had been momentarily distracted by the sight of Eoki and witnessing it's raw power, that when it took notice of her wound, she simply blinked and was taken back by the sight of an arrow jutting out from her chest.
Gasping, she cling onto Jazbel tighter, feeling an odd sensation overwhelm her by the healing magics. It was almost like water had healed her shut. She placed a hand across her chest, fingers twitching over the remnants of the wound before turning back towards the figure looming above.

The power was awesome and terrible, but in the same time, it had saved her.
So to speak...
It was only when he spoke Ellarrah blinked again, feeling her head become dizzy.
"Eh, a weapon? Are we still back to that?" Blinking, she turned to peer up at Jazbel, not certain she was in any condition to follow through with Eoki's request, after all, she was still ghostly white from the effects of the arrow.
"So it was this thing stuck in your head?" She stared at Jazzy,t hen back to Eoki, blinking. "And my does it seem an impatient one. Was it that bad inside there?"s he tried to jest, but then quickly held a hand up to her head as she felt her world become light as she leaned against Jazbel's side.

Jazbel chuckled in a ragged way as Ellarrah spoke.
"Yes, we're still talking about that," he said, cradling her.
The man nodded at her first question, and pretended not to hear the second one, least Eoki got mad.
"Easy, Elle," he said, anxiously. Jazbel figured he could walk, but he didn't know what sort of state Elle was in. By the looks of it, still a horribly bad one. However, they had other matters to deal with, such as the weapon.  Jazbel frowned. They were both stripped of weapons. Just then, he heard a muffled groan from  down the hall. The man smiled.
"I'll be right back," he said, gently moving Elle so that she laid on the fountain side.
He turned towards the deity, gesturing for him to watch over the lady. Eoki only stared back with a blank expression. They weren't used to being told to babysit.

Jazbel limped as fast as he could down the tunnel's end. He found one of Rednet's men knocked out. Jazbel slapped his face, gently. The man only snored- he wasn't going to get up in a while. Jazbel grunted as he examined the man's person. They were an archer , they still had their quiver, but their long knife was still in their sheath. Jazbel unsheathed it and took it back with him  towards the chamber, leaning against the wall for support.
"Now what?" he asked.

Ellarrah managed to support herself against her hands as she sat on the fountain.
"Be careful!"s he called after Jazzy, then slowly, ever so slowly, she turned back to Eoki. The thing creeped her out, she wouldn't lie as she made a slightly bitter face about it when the black eyes stared back at her after Jazbel's request.

"So you're going to just enchant some sword for us and be off then?" she inquired, not knowing what else to do to make conversation with the uh.. erm.. thing.
It was when Jazzy returned that she breathed a slight sigh of relief and stared down at the knife.

"A knife? You want to use a dinky old thing like that to do our job?" Ellarrah frowned at the thought.  "But I think I might need this whole process explained to me again." She rubbed her brow. "Between this entity, the puzzle box and losing my heart, I think I'm losing my mind as well." And perhaps some of her spirit!

Jazbel frowned at Ellarrah's quib.
Well, at least I know she's doing okay, he thought, making a face.
"It was the first thing I could find," he replied, sheepishly. "We're sort of pressed for time."
He sighed at her want for him to explain everything over to her, again. This was getting redundant. He handed the dagger up to the diety, who wrinkled their nose.
"This is it?" they said, haughty.
"The lady is right...

They smirked at Jazbel's glare.
"Alright, alright," they replied, muttering a few words as they held the dagger out.
"Thank you," Jazbel muttered.
Maybe it was his vision, but Eoki seemed to grow bigger as the ocean of their robes began to stir restlesly. The knife glowed as water from the fountain merged with the blade. Before Jazbel's eyes, the dagger transformed into a beautiful and  deadly sharped long sword, its edges waved. The steel was blue. Then, after a moment's brillance, the steel dissolved in thin air, and what was left of it was the dagger. Eoki turned it in their hands, proudly presenting it to Jazbel.
"There. Use it wisely," he said.
Jazbel stared at the thing, baffled. He didn't consider the ceremony to be this short or unclimatic.
"That's it?" he said, doubtfully.
Eoki nodded, unsure of what else Jazbel was expecting.

They clapped a hand on Jazbel's good shoulder.
"I've fulfilled my end of the deal. I must go now," they said. " Good luck on your journey. Asmoda is a tricky one. Call if you shall ever need me again."
They smiled, revealing rows of teeth too white and too sharp. It rather unnerved Jazbel.
"Oh? Goodbye, then," he replied, a little lamely. What was one supposed to say to a deity?
"Thank you for all of your help."
The deity nodded solemnly before stepping into the fountain. They said their goodbyes before appearing to dissolve in the fountain, and then that too disappeared into thin air. Jazbel reached out to catch Ellarrah, least she fell.

Jazbel looked into her green eyes with a perplexed expression.
"Please don't ask me what just happened, because I don't have the slightest clue," he said.
"I know this is going to sound very stupid, but can you walk?"

Ellarrah had held her breath for the transformation-
but even she felt deflated at the shortness, and also, bluntness of their host. Blinking, she stared from the knife, then to Eoki.
"Just a little puff o' magic, eh?" she stared at it skeptically, but still, they've seen much worse.  Glancing up as the being ought to leave, she raised a brow. "I suppose it's happy to be goin' now, eh?" and then as it went, she waved with her hand. "See you around." THough realized, was that the most appropriate of responses. Oh well, she internally shrugged and turned back to Jazzy, who's eyes now met to hers.  Blinking, she tried to laugh it off.

"I won't ask if you won't." she smiled, but then at his next question, she was laughing again. "Aye, come on now, Jazz," she siad, patting him affectionately on the shoulder. "You think a little old arrow to my heart's gonna keep me from walking?" She patted her chest with a wink, even pushing it out some, cleavage and all. "See? Eoki made me right as rain. And I suppose we should be thanking that Asmoda chick when we see her. After all, if I still had my heart, I'dbe dead."
Then studying him, she put out a hand. "Though.. I wouldn't mind a helping hand to stand some. Just,...you know, in case." she rubbed a bit embarrassedly at the back of her hair. But her legs still did feel like jello, after all.

Jazbel snorted at Ellarrah's response, clasping his hand on hers as she patted him on the shoulder. Gods, even in a condition like this, she was still able to flirt? He guided her arm around his shoulder, and wrapped an arm around her waist.
"Thank Asmoda?" he said, surprised. He contemplated over the possibility, wrinkling his nose.
"No, let's not," he decided.
It was partially her fault they got sucked into the puzzle.
"Let's make some haste, then," he said, removing his mind from such thoughts.
"They still have our possessions and the puzzle."

Together, they made their way through the tunnel. Jazbel clung to the knife with his free hand. He walked so that Ellarrah always had the wall for support. He stopped when they got to the rope dangling from the room upstairs, where they had been tied up. Jazbel moved away from Ellarrah.
"Give me a moment," he muttered, tugging on the rope before climbing it.
He was never really good at this sort of thing, and Jazbel struggled to make it to the top. But make it he did, and he wiped the sweat from his brow triumphantly as he sat on the edge. He looked around himself with a sense of awe. Eoki had destroyed, it seemed, most of the building. Some walls still stood, and he room had been empty, but debris from other rooms was present, and the ceiling was caved in; he could see clearly a room upstairs. It was dark. A sense of dread crept up on him.
Our stuff, he thought. The puzzle.
He glanced down at Ellarrah, holding onto the rope.
"If you can't climb, tie it around yourself," he said.
"I'll pull you up!"
Jazbel wondered if he had the strength to do that.

Ellarrah craned her neck as she stared at the gaping hole above.
"Angsar's balls... look at that mess." THen she waited, patiently, but anxiously, as Jazbel climbed the rope. If she had her heart, it would be beating fast and when he motioned for her to follow, she obeyed, grunting as she found the strength to climb herself up all the way to the top, but not without some exhausted efforts as she panted and let herself sit for a moment on the floor.

Then finally, she began to stare around.
The world around them was dark and quiet.. and broken. It was like a strange and twisted dream. She frowned.
"It feels colder than death, Jazzy," she commented, shivering. "Did Eoki do all of this?" She pouted even a little as she frowned, then slowly pulled herself off of her feet and raked a hand through her wild hair.  "I'm kind of glad we weren't on the receiving end of all of that."S he forced a smile for him and shrugged.  "But where ought we to look through all of this mess?" She breathed a whistle. "And if we ain't careful, this whole goddamn place might fall apart." She cringed at the sounds of the roof over head groaning against the weak supports.. and the wind.

"Let's make haste, shall we?"

Jazbel extended a hand  with his good arm to help Ellarrah reach the top. When she safely reached it, he quickly cut the rope and left it on the floor. The man didn't feel cruel for not leaving it for the others to escape, when it was their time. His survival and their question was more important- those men had friends above ground, besides.
Unless they were drowned, he thought with a grim frown.
"You're cold?" he muttered, nodding.

He was even more vulnerable to the cold, as his shirt was missing. Jazbel scoffed when Elle commented on their fortune.
"No kidding," he said, raising to his feet. Jazbel hissed through his teeth, clutching his shoulder.
"There's gotta be a room where they are keeping our things. If this is their hide out, my bet is in the armory or Rednet's study, if she has one."
He  looked up at the hole in the ceiling, thoughtfully.
Too bad it's too far up, he lamented.

Jazbel crept towards the door, looking into the hallway. To his dismay, it  was even more of a disaster, with rubble , broken wall,s and broken furniture.  To the left was a cave in, impossible to go through.A man laid on the ground not too far from the door. Jazbel leaned down and check their pulse. It was faint, but it was there.  A key was grasped in his left hand. Jazbel carefully pried it out of his fingers. Judging by the state of things, Jazbel wondered if he even needed it , but it couldn't hurt.
With no where else to go, Jazbel began to go down the right side of the hall.
"Watch your step, m'dear," he said to Ellarrah.

"Yeah, if we don't find that puzzle ball I'll flip. I don't exactly want to stay heartless forever.."
Even though it had it's advantages.. she just hoped, and something crept into the back of her mind. What if, when their hearts were returned.. all of the events that happened to them were relived? And if she had to actually die by that arrow to her heart?
Ellarrah winced, clutching at her heart, and felt herself grow cold when there was no heart to respond.

As Jazbel motioned for her to follow, she simply nodded and kept close.

The hallway  was at least solid enough for them to pass. But a few doors were blocked, but two others remained. Though they were closed. Ellarrah sighed, hands to her hips.
"There's two of 'em. Shall we split up or check one of these at a time?" She sighed again. "I'm not to fond of staying here any longer than we have to, but I also don't want to get separated from the only man who understands why my heart won't beat in my chest anymore."  She shook her head. "Why don't we just check what's behind door number one then?" and she reached out to open it, then peered over at Jazzy's bare chest. "And perhaps we can get a shirt for ya before you put someone's eye out."S he smirked, then twisted the nob and stepped into the room, but it was shrouded in darkness. It seemed this one hardly lay in ruins, and was rather small.

Blinking, she waited for her eyes to adjust before taking another few small steps forward.

"Aw, pigswallow. This room's got nothing but garbage."
And it did. It only appeared to have a few scraps of discarded food on the table. Obviously someone was enjoying a pig roast before they were called off to duty.  Shaking her head she gestured back towards the door.
"Let's try door number two."

Jazbel cautiously covered a nipple with a hand as Ellarrah commented on his shirtlessness. The man was about to tease her into giving him hers, then, but such thoughts were kicked out of his mind as she opened the door. Jazbel wrinkled his nose at the sight of the sad, empty room. Jazbel took the keys and unlocked the door. As he had suspected, it was a small amory, the metal gleaming dully in the bad light. Most of the swords and  spears were lying on the ground in heaps. Jazbel's eyes scanned the room, his eyes landing on an odd, roundish shape lying by the door.
"My stuff!" he cried, gleefully. Jazbel picked up his knack sack with a frown. His stuff was soaked, but judging by how clean his bag was, nothing had broken inside of it. He reached inside and pulled out a wrinkled blue shirt. His guitar, on the other hand...

Jazbel wrinkled his nose at the sorry sight. The wood was smashed and the strings snapped in two. He sighed.
"Poor thing," he lamented. "At least I still got my shawm. I can always buy a new one, eh?"
But with what money? The man smacked his forehead. Of course, they were going to have to steal that back, too!
Complicated, complicated, he thought with a sigh as he bent over and picked up a sword.
"M'lady," he said as he presented the  sword to Ellarrah.
Jazbel didn't know if Eoki made everything better or worse.

He opened the door and looked down the hall .There was a third door, hidden behind  a small wall.
"Rednet has to keep her treasury somewhere," Jazbel whispered as he began to climb them.

Ellarrah approached Jazzy from the side, gently patting him on the shoulder as he looked at his dead instrument.
"Perhaps I can steal you another one," she said with a wink. And at the comment his flute, she gave a snort. "A shawm. Don't men got one anyways in their pants?" She grinned, showing her teeth, wrinkling her nose some and looked around, green eyes scouting the area as she sighed, but then when Jazbel approached her with the sword, she grinned, taking it from him and examining it's metal as it made a kiss against the faint light.

"Ah, now this is more like it. No shawms for me." she said, sticking out her tongue before setting the blade of the knife tot he ground and testing her weight on it, like a crutch.

"You might want to take something too,"s he said, gesturing to the plethora of weapons all around them. "Who knows what other hell we might face, love."

ANd as they continued to look around, she noticed the door and followed after Jazzy, finding herself humming idly to herself as they went, her voice echoing in the dark gloom.
"Do you think the treasury is really this way? For all we know it could be hidden back in any of those rooms that were turned to rubble."

Jazbel frowned  indignantly at the insult.
"It's made me many a pretty penny," he protested.
She wouldn't understand. Elle, as perfectly charming (and uncharming) as she was, did not have a musiscian's spirit. He wanted to point out tthat he already had a knife, a magicked one, but decided to not argue for now and gingerly picked up a near by sword.  Jazbel shrugged at Ellarrah's question. She brought up a good point, but even so...
"It's completely blocked off," he  said. "If it's not up here, we'd have to find another way - oh, shit."

At the top of the stairs stood Asvan herself with a strange device in her hand. It was one of those guns that Jazbel heard that only the military had. They were clumsy weapons, he had heard, for he had never seen one in person, but  they were in a close enough range for it to be very effective, immortal or not.

Ellarrah would have commented about the 'pretty penny', but held her tongue and found herself more complacent when Jazzy picked up a weapon for himself. But it seemed, weapon or not, they'd find themselves in a prickly predicament, indeed!  For now Ellarrah found herself gaping, wide mouthed at a woman holding a gun.
"Angsar's balls!" she spat, glaring at Rednet. "What do you want!?" She stared at the weapon almost defiantly and held a tighter grip to her sword. She knew some about those devises and only feared it out of ignorance. After all, it seemed painful it one were to get shot!  "Shouldn't you be getting out of the way?" Ellarrah added, cockily. "You know, in case we flood your place again?"

Asven narrowed her eyes as she pointed the gun towards Ellarrah. Jazbel wished Elle hadn't said what she did. He could see the rage in the woman's face, the way she tensed up at Ellarrah's words, the way a light glint in her eyes when his companion claimed that they flooded the place.
"So it was you, huh?" Rednet said, aiming the gun right at Elle's chest.
"You little shit, I-"
"It wasn't us," Jazbel interrupted coldly.
Rednet paused and turned towards them man, pointing the gun at him.
"I wasn't don't talking," she said, her nose flaring.
"I know. It wasn't us. Don't shoot her."

Rednet stared at him for a while before letting out a short and sharp tisk.
"Whatever," she snapped. "I don't have time for this. Drop your swords and walk in front of me. We're leaving. Hurry up and do it now!"
Jazbel gave a glance over to Ellarrah.
"Where are you taking us to?" he asked.
She laughed at that.
"Oh, you'd want to know, wouldn't you?" she sneered.
Jazbel took another step forward. She was only three steps away. They couldn't just drop their weapons, it wasn't an option. He lunged for the gun. A shot rang out, but where to Jazbel didn't dare see. He gritted his teeth as he clutched to the barrel, trying to wring it out of Rednet's hands, but she was much more stronger than he.

When Jazbel spoke up, Ellarrah held her breath. The gun was aimed at her, then dread set in even further when it was aimed at him. She gasped, turning to him, then panicked and looked back at the woman, her face twisting at the request.
"Follow you!?" but then before she knew it, Jazbel lunged at her. Gasping, Ellarrah flinched away at the sound of the bullet exploding from the gun to only the gods new where, but knowing how those silly things worked, it gave her a boost of strength as she tore across the ground, leaping in right along side Jazbel and socked her fist right into Rednet's face.
"Drop that gun outta your little pretty fingers and I won't knock out all of your teeth!" Ellarrah spat.  "Do it now!"

Jazbel hanged back, relieved that Ellarrah wasn't hit and that she had punched the woman square in the jaw. He threw every inch of power within himself into yanking the gun from Asven's fingers. The force sent both of them stumbling backwards some. Asven reached out to grab the gun again, but Jazbel aimed it straight towards her. He was surprised at how heavy it was.
"Step back," he said, readjusting the way he carried it.
How the hell did one hold these things anyway?

Asven sneered at him, but did nothing. She valued her mortality too much.
"Where's the sphere?" Jazbel demanded.
Asven said nothing, but arched her brow, amused.
"I'll shoot," he warned, but she still kept silent.
He glared right back at the woman, utterly frustrated. Fine, if she wanted to play these games...
"Elle, love, check to see if she doesn't have it on her. Carefully," he warned.

"Carefully?" Ellarrah cracked her knuckles, rolling her shoulders some as her eyes grew dark and narrowed on Rednet.
"If I were to just bash her lights out with my fist, we might not have to worry about her pretty little head gettin' in our way when we make our escape." THough she eyed Rednet and the dark look she gave her and spat. "Pah, well, it's better to keep her conscious, I suppose. Let me see what I can come up with." And she began to pat the woman down, not finding much of anything, but helping herself to a few trinkets along the way as she admired a small, gold pinned rose.
"Thank you very much," she said, seeming happily distracted for a moment as she pocketed it. "Doubt you'd be needing this much, love." And she grinned, showing her teeth, but scowled before turning to Jazzy.
"She doesn't have it."

Jazbel tried to suppress a smile as Ellarrah talked. He wasn't supposed to be entertained by her utterly unladylike speech, he was supposed to be intimidating. Or, at least, trying to. He was good at many things when it came to acting, but not intimidating. He waited patiently as she patted Rednet down, the gun resting against his shoulder.
Hurry up, he thought. His arms were growing weary.

Rednet sneered as Ellarrah took the pin. Jazbel frowned as she announced that Rednet didn't have the puzzle. He was about to say something, his thoughts spinning in his head, when the criminal bent her left arm and lunged for Ellarrah, attempting to hit her hard in the gut.
"You give that back!" she barked, using her other hand to punch.
Jazbel didn't want to shoot. They were so close!

Ellarrah gave a cry of anger as the woman lunged at her.
"Hey, get those greasy mitts off of me hair!" Naturally, Ellarrah was roaring as the two women tumbled, ignoring the hard jab to her gut as the women rolled about in an angered fit of twistign arms and kicking legs about the ground when Rednet seized her hair. Ellarrah hollered, but sunk two fingers into Asven's eyes before slamming the palm of her hand into Rednet's neck, then rolling away, kicking her boot then into the woman's face and sending Rednet toppling at Jazbel's feet.

Rubbing at her nose and then cracking it into place,( and if she could bleed, it would be bleeding now), but she was hardly done with Rednet as she leapt at the woman, pinning her to the ground in some sort of unladylike half nelson, knee to back and arms squeezed tightly around her neck.

"WHERE'S THE PUZZLE!?" Ellarrah seethed, tightening her grip around the woman's neck. "Or I'll do something your pretty head won't like if I squeeze any more force about your little neck. Come on then- out with it!"

Jazbel hopped skipped backwards, clinging to the gun as he watched the two women brawl it out.
"That's it, lass!" he  shouted, cheeering on Ellarrah. He didn't know what else to do, seeing as he would just end up interferring.
"Hey!" a gruff voice called out just as Ellarrah pinned Rednet to the ground.
Part of Jazbel was annoyed by this disturbance. The fight was just getting to the good part!
He whirled around to find one of Rednet's men charging towards him with a sword.
"Damn," Jazbel swore he readjusted his grip on the  gun. As Asven's man took a swing at him, Jazbel used the gun to block it. A dull ringing noise rang out. Jazbel stumbled backwards. He was never much help with swords, let alone guns. He dodged the next blow and hit the man in the collar with the butt of the gun. A cracking noise was heard as he collapsed to the ground.

Jazbel took in a deep breath, panting.
"Do you know where the puzzle is?" he asked, pointing the gun at this man.
"Don't!" Rednet growled, gasping for air.
However, the man with the broken collar bone cared too much for his life.
"Around the corner, three doors down," he said, hissing through his teeth. "Right... right side!"

Ellarrah gave a smile as smug as a cat's.
"That's a good boy," she said, then grinned down at Rednet and whispered, "Nighty night-" before dropping a heavy blow to her head, the woman crumpled on the ground. Standing up, Ellarrah dusted herself off, keeping he rhead held high as she brushed her red hair from her shoulders.
"Come now, we can let this weasle go, he can't going much of anywhere right now, plus he decided to help us." she tossed the poor man a flirtatious wink before linking arms with Jazzy.
"ANd by the way, Jazz, you DO realize that thing is meant to shoot bullets," she chirped, hugging herself against his arm. "And you need to load 'em one at a time.'" she smirked as she waved her hand about with a matter of fact flare. "So you see, it's useless." and this time, she gave him a smirk, feeling all of her pride and energies return.

Ah.. it was so satisfying to have won that fight!

As Ellarrah urged Jazbel to go, linking her arms with his, Jazbel nodded and briskly made his way down the hall, following the man's orders.
"Indeed," he replied, throwing the man a second glance. Jazbel was surprised at his grit. He had never done something like that before, either.
He smiled at Ellarrah's comment about the gun, turning it over in his hands. Jazbel felt foolish for not realizing this.
"Not entirely useless," he objected. "I did do some damage."


Around the corner, three doors down. Right side.  Jazbel counted the doors as he walked past them, stopping in front of the one that  was theirs. He could hear the man croak for help and grimaced. Jazbel wished Elle could have shut him up as well, though he didn't doubt they would be joined soon. To prove the empty gun's worth, again, he  barged the butt of the rifle against the door, the wood cracking as the door slammed open. As he suspected, it was an office, though one with more weapons and furs decorating the walls than any study he remembered visiting. The room was a mess, too, thanks to the flood. Still, at least it was there. He bolted the door shut behind them.
"I'll check the table, first. You check that corner over there," Jazbel suggested, gesturing towards a chest by the side of the room, buried under fallen shelves.

"Right!" Ellarrah agreed, and stepped over some of the wreckage inside the room with little grace, though a bit dainty even for her. But the carelessness in her ways was easy to see as she pushed and shoved soggy books and articles aside to ensure she had enough room to open the box after she picked the lock. SHe tested it, looked at it thoroughly fetched up some pins she always had in her hair. Ugh, there was only one left, she'd have to be sure now to lose it. These little bits did wonders in a pinch on doors and locks, so picking at it she went, and when, after a few irritable twists and turns, she heard the sound of it unlocking and let out a squeal of delight.
"There, got ya!" she exclaimed, then flung the chest open and her eyes went wide and glittering like emeralds. Reaching down, she picked up the puzzle box, er.. puzzle ball... and stared at it affectionately, almost as if it were some sort of child.

"Well that made quick work for us. I found the puzzle ball," she informed, smiling as she peered over at Jazzy from her shoulder. "And a few of our things are in here, too."
Luck was finally on their side!
"Seems this chest kept most of the water out."

The desk's drawers were filled with mainly documents. They were soaked, thanks to the damage Eoki had caused. However, Jazbel dainty picked up a soggy envelope on top of the pile, carefully pulling out a piece of parchment. Most of the writing was hopelessly illegible, now, but Jazbel could still make out the words "puzzle" and "gold".  He stared at the seal on the envelope and the smeared signature on the letter. He didn't know who it belonged to, but if he mailed it to his employer, the man bet she would.
Maybe somehow I can deviate her attention, he thought. Form a plan and not have her kill him for being on this quest.  Jazbel eagerly held onto the letter before pulling out a chain necklace with coins and beads dangling from it. He shoved it into his pocket, thinking nothing of it as Ellarrah beckoned him.

"Really?" he replied, excited.
"Excellent! We should leave soon... oh."
Jazbel's voice trailed off as he stared greedily at the chest full of treasure.
"Looks like our expenses are covered," he muttered, throwing paranoid glances at the door.
"Whatever you do, hurry up," Jazbel suggested.

Ellarrah gave a smug grin, but kept the puzzle box.. ball.. thing held out for Jazzy.
"Ain't you gonna take it?" she asked, face falling a little. She practically shoved it into his hands. She didn't want it! "Here, take it. I don't want to accidently have it gobble us back into that weird world."
She shivered, thinking about the skeletal knight and the kiss. Of course she hadn't kissed a man in weeks and here , the most recent was with some creepy dead dude living inside a cursed ball.
Shaking away the images, she rubbed her hands together.
"Ok, time for some fun." Rolling up her sleeves, she went about picking out her things, her brother ssowrds and the like- and began pocketing up a few other gems int he treasures as well.

She found a certain necklace, one with a small emerald attached and stared at it for a time.
"Yeah, I'm keepin this one for me. Might as well. Ain't no man gonna buy me one." she was muttering to herself while cramming it into her pocket.
"It'll be nice to have some money,"s he beamed, finally turning back to Jazzy. "Shall we get going then, love?"

"Yes, yes, of course," said Jazbel, fumbling with his knacksack as he shoved the puzzle in there.
He didn't want to handle that thing anymore than Ellarrah did. Jazbel nodded as she began to rummage through the chest, backing away towards the door.  It amused him to see the spark of energy in her eyes; he'd leave this job to her. Still, he was rather jumpy. Probably too much. Jazbel felt paranoid as he turned to face the door, half expecting someone to knock the door down.

He arched a brow as Elle muttered something to herself, something that he couldn't quite pick up, but he nodded as she asked him about money.
"Just don't spend it all at the next inn we go to," he said in a half teasingly manner opening the door. Thankfully, the halls were clear, for the time being.
Jazbel grabbed Ellarrah's hand as he began to run towards a different corridor which he hoped lead to the exit, panting. He felt entirely too old for this.

The place was in shambles, so it was hard to tell which way was what, but it seemed luck was on their side- for once, as the last door they found creaked open as freedom was before them.
"The morning sun never looked so good," Ellarrah claimed, smiling and simply reveling in the feeling of the cool, clean air.
Nudging Jazbel, she turned to him, "You think they got any horses or something so we can make a quick escape?"
And as she took another boot step forward, she stopped, making a face as the ground was rather soggy.
"Man, Eoki had a lot of erm, water." she unstuck her boot and looked back to Jaz.

Once outside, Jazbel collapsed on the ground, resting on a broken pillar. He waved his hand as Elle made some comment about the sun. He supposed it was alright. It was nice to be outside again, that was for sure. Jazbel took a deep breathe as he shrugged, examining the damange. The destruction was bad on the inside, but it looked worse on the outside. Windows were broken, the roof was damaged, and parts of the walls have caved in. As he had suspected, they were in an isolated area. He was almost thankful for it- had  anybody been around, things would just get uglier. The base was built at the side of an empty quiry.
"Yeah," Jazbel scoffed as he rose to his feet.
"Maybe," he said, his eyes turning towards the stables.   

Jazbel walked over to find it relatively undamaged, though the horses were spooked. He held out his hands towards a brown coated on nearest to the door. He muttered soothing things to the restless beast as  he opened the gate and escorted the creature out of their pen. Their saddle hanging on the wall, Jazbel quickly grabbed it and with ease, began to quickly saddle the horse up. It was almost nostalgic; his family had  two horses, once upon a time. Jazbel quickly jumped on and held out a hand for Ellarrah.                                                                                                                               

As much as she knew horses were a good idea- Ellarrah was never much of a rider. Sure she was on a saddle from time to time, but she wasn't about to admit to Jazzy she was a little bit afraid of horses.  However, when the horse drew near, she visibly flinched, jumping back away from it, and almost gave a start when Jazzy's hand went down to her.
She was so frazzled, she had almost not realized what he was doing, then blushed and accepted it.
"Ah, sorry, it's been a while since I've been on a horse!" she admitted with a nervous laugh. "So what do I.. do I just step onto it while you.." and she tried to fumble her foot into the stirrups,
hands clenching onto whatever she could as she grunted and pulled and apologized after she realized what and how she was holding onto Jazzy, then groped onto something else- again another apology, before eventually she got her leg to swing around and she was seated behind the man and clung into him with a hot and irritable sigh.


"Let's just.. get the hell outta here."

Jazbel grunted as he helped to hoist the lady up to the saddle.
"Easy does it," he said.
Jazbel blushed fiercely, his teeth grinding together as Ellarrah groped bits that were not meant to be handled in that way in the slightest.
"Easy, I say."
The horse caught onto his tension and whinnied impatiently, shaking his head. Jazbel patted its smooth fur, awkwardly. He hoped he remembered how to ride. Once Ellarrah was properly on, he clicked his tongue and flicked the reigns, digging his feet into the stirrup as they rode off. He could hear faint shouts behind them, though Jazbel did not dare to look back.
"How many other horses were there in the stables?" He asked Ellarrah in a panic as they galloped through the forest between rows of unfamiliar and daunting scenery.

Jazbel's mind whirled as he tried to pinpoint their location. He had no idea where they were.
The sun was behind them, so that meant they were heading west. That was a start, but a vague one.
"Damnit," he muttered through gritted teeth.
"C'on, horse, go faster!"

It was eerie. The pair seemed to be escaping far too easily, especially when Ellarrah confirmed she thought she saw at least two other horses.

"You think they'll make chase after us?" she inquired, holding onto him real tight.  "On horses, I mean. Suppose we ought to have been smarter and tried to spook them away?"
She frowned, cursing herself inwardly for not thinking of ways to delay the men from pursuing, but still, it seemed, as she glanced back, that no one was to come.

Jazbel's heart clutched at Ellarrah's words.
"Oh," he said, stupefied.
He felt incredibly stupid for not having thought up of that before. Of course they should have spooked the other horses away. That probably would have been the best thing to do, but it was too late to turn back, now. Instead, all Jazbel could focus on was going forward, though he desperately wished to know where the hell they were going. His eyes darted around him.  Rednet's men were bandits. If this was their property, no doubt they would have guards hidden in the forest..
Sure enough, an arrow past the two, burying itself into a tree trunk. Jazbel's eyes immediately rose to the trees, looking out for a shady form, anything.
"Elle, keep a look out!" he shouted, though what she was supposed to do was beyond him.

Jazbel yanked on the reigns to change direction, hoping to throw their  attempted murderer  off.
He could hear the sound of hooves far behind him. It wouldn't be long before Rednet's men begin to catch up...

Ellarrah gasped, her heart in her throat. She clutched onto Jazbel more tightly.
"GOds, this is one of those times I wish I paid attention in archery!" She glanced back ove rher shoulder, shadows could be men, and noises could mean death. She grit her teeth and looked around, heart- if she sitll had it, would be fluttering inside her breast. It was weird though- she experienced the same emotions- or at least she thought she was, but something felt..
different...
flutters were there..
but the other sensations along with fear were not.
She shivered.

She hoped they wouldn't be heartless for long.

It would be easier for them to escape if it were night, now they were easy targets as another arrow whizzed by, and thankfully did not sink into anything.
Ellarrah released a breath.
"Can't this beast go any faster!?"

Jazbel let out a sharp bark of a laugh as Ellarrah swore.
'We don't have that sort of equipment on us now, anyway," he pointed out.
"Just draw whatever weapon you have, and-"
Jazbel stilled his breath as he heard shouts from behind them, coming closer.
"Damnit," he swore, looking at moss. The needed to find water of some sort, or a hidden path.
We need to hide our tracks, he thought.
The sight of moss encouraged him. He stirred their horse towards the north. Jazbel dug his knees in the sides as they galloped hard. The sensation was entirely uncomfortable, but they weren't in a position to worry about such things for now!
"We can lose them at the river," he said.
He hoped he was right.

Ellarrah clung on tightly to Jazbel.
"AYE!? Do we have to run so close to the river!?" The horse was thundering heavily by now, and she could finally make out the men who had begun to follow through the thickness of the woods. She gritted her teeth, feeling the hair rush through her hair as she whimpered.
"Jazbel, we've got to do something!" she was panicked and afraid and almost to the point she could not think. But she tried, mind whirling when suddenly a bolt of lighting cracked a tree-
"M-magic!?" Ellarrah looked appalled, but then fear gripped her as the branch lit up, cracked and began to fall towards them, nearly crushing the horse and spooking it so that it jumped, with the pair still on it's back, and plunged head first into the river-

and down through a mass of chaotic bubbles she fell- the water deep and fast- pulling her swiftly along after ramming her against one rock, then the next before she resurfaced, gasping for breath. Her hair was plastered chaotically about her face as seh gasped out, hands beating at the waters.
"JAZZY!?" Gods.. where was he!? "JAZZZ!!!???" but the current was fulling her fast and strong, and she was beating her hands merely to keep herself afloat-

WHERE WAS HE!?
and where was the horse!?

Gods, did that woman have to yell in his ear, now? It was incredibly uncomfortable riding like this, and Jazbel was really reconsidering the intelligence behind his plans. He was going to shout about how it all had to do with tracks and misguiding Rednet's men, but there wasn't much a point in doing that, as they already seemed to have caught up with them. Jazbel yelled as a bolt of lightning struck  a tree, spooking the horse. Instinct told Jazbel to cling to the reigns, holding on for his life as the burning branch and the cry of the horse drowned out the noise around him. The stallion plunged into the waters, but the river was deeper and wilder than Jazbel had imagined it to be. The beast was one with a fierce sense of survival and, fought its way towards the other side of the river.  Jazbel had been clinging with all his might and had emerged  from the water out of breath and exhausted. He panted for breath  as the horse's whinny pierced the chilly air. He looked wildly about him.
"Elle?" he whimpered as the horse tried to charge forward into the forest.
Where was she?!
Oh, Kia...
Jazbel blanched as the voices became louder. He could see shadows in the distance. He yanked at the reigns to direct the stead by the water's edge, running in the direction of the  current. Jazbel didn't dare to shout, least he further caught the attention of Rednet's men.

He found her wildly struggling in the water. Unable to control the stallion anymore, Jazbel lept off the horse and hit it as hard as he could in the rear. The stallion cried out again as it bolted in the distance.
Good riddance, Jazbel sulked. You weren't any help at all...
He did not have time, however, to be dwelling on such matters. He dove into the angry waters, his arms cutting through the current  that tried to drag him down. Though he could swim, Jazbel did not have the strength in him to fight the river for too long. He reached out for Ellarrah and grasped her hand. He lead her to a rock in the water, and Jazbel crouched down low, his head barely above it as he gestured for the woman to hush as the bandits reached the water's edge.  Jazbel squeezed Ellarrah's hand.
"Damn those bastards!" he heard one shout. "They're headed towards Reajh, again!"
"Quickly, take your lot that way and mine will go corner them on the other end..."
"That was my horse!"
"They couldn't have gone far..."

Jazbel held his breath as he heard them cross the river, their steads' cries haunting.

Ellarrah was no pro at swimming, and infact, had surprised herself she wasn't blubbering around more. She could swim, though she was not very graceful at it,a nd was thankful to the Gods Jazbel was there. She could have hugged and kissed him had they not been in such a plight,a nd she followed his lead, remained quiet and peered over the side, only to notice the men on the opposing end of the river as she shrunk down. Then her teeth began to chatter. She just hoped the noise couldn't be detected- though it would be crazy for anyone to hear such a thing over the swell of the rapids. But Angsar's balls! THis water was cold. Turning to Jazzy, she continued to shiver, teeth still chattering.

Then, after there was silence for a time, she looked to Jazbel.
"I.. do... do you think they've gone?" she asked, finally finding the strength to push some of her unruly, slopping wet red hair out of her face.

OOC: I only have ten minutes to write this, so here I go! XD
IC:

Jazbel signaled for Ellarrah to be silent, afraid of what would happen if they were to be heard. He kept his head turned from the woman. He didn't want her to see his terror. Finally, once he was sure they were gone, he turned to her. His hand shook as he reached to touch a  pale cheek.
"Yes," he replied, tugging gently on her hand.
Jazbel didn't want to move, but he had to force himself to keep going. That was the key. Besides, there would be more coming.
"Come on, on your feet. Run!," he said, his voice hoarse.
He waded towards the shore as quietly as he can. Once on dry ground, however, he began to run. At first, his steps were shakey, but Jazbel grew more confidence which each stride. He was beyond exhausted, but Jazbel didn't dare slow down. He kept an iron grip on Ellarrah's hand, refusing to let go.
We can continue down this way, he thought. There were many trees to obscure them, and there was a village in this direction, though Jazbel had forgotten how far. He hoped it was close.
"We can make it," he whispered to himself.

She too, was exhausted and now that they had to run, she was feeling her body burn from it. But she didn't complain, and was actually thankful Jazbel had enough strength to keep her hand sealed within his grip. It actually made her smile a little, but soon it faded as she peered back. She couldn't see the men anymore, but now they were without a horse, but at least they had..
She gasped.
"Do we still have the puzzle ball!?" she exclaimed, though she did so between a stuffed hand ove rher lips and in a harsh, surprised whisper. Her other hand tensed beneath his as she tried to seek out his eyes as they ran.
"We didn't lose it in the horse or river, did we , Jaz?"

"Huh?!"
Jazbel was already cold and miserable, and now his eyes widened in horror as he tried to remember the answer to Ellarrah's question. Of course, he had no need to panic. The man felt his pockets and his knacksack, and the knot that had formed in his chest lifted when he felt the weight of the metal object at the bottom of the bag.
"Yeah," he said with a sigh.
"I mean, no, we did not lose it. Don't worry. Scared me for a moment there..."

Jazbel would have laughed, but he heard voices. He held firmly to Ellarrah's hand, his eyes darting to a nearby group of bushes, but the voices weren't heading towards their direction, so his posture eased. They walked by a rocker area of the forest, where there were small nooks and coves for them to hide if need be. However, as they passed by a giant oak tree, the bark appeared to move.... And two giant hands wrapped themselves around an alarmed Jazbel!
Invisibility?! Jazbel thought as he struggled to get out of their grasp.
The man was about to shout for the assistance of his comrades, but Jazbel threw his weight into covering his mouth.
"Elle!" he  grunted as they wrestled to the ground.

Considering they were holding hands, Ellarrah felt herself jerked around when Jazbel was suddenly attacked.
"Jazbel! What on earth are you..." and hse paused, her lips pursed out, puckering even in the pronounced stage of the 'you' shape of her mouth, but slowly one brow arched up as the man struggled. She had NO idea what he was going on about, he looked as if he were becoming posessed into some mad dance.

"Jazzy!? What on earth are you doing dancin' about there!?" she hissed. "Its as if-" and then her green eyes widened as she realized.
"INVISIBLE MAN!" she screamed, though a bit too loudly as she tried to study where the man ought to be before trying to grab onto the man's arms and pry him off ad beat at his head.
"ER- LET GO OF HIM!"s he barked, kicking and prying and digging her claws into the man until he finally let go, only to whirl around and snatch onto Ellarrah, shaking her. The poor girl was so confused.
"What the hell!?" she snarled, trying to wring her arm free. "Let go of me you creepy invisible stalker!" she said, then kicked- managing to get the unseeable man int he shins as he made a grunt and went down- but not before Ellarrah kicked him again in the head. "Jazzy! We should make a run for it! I kicked him down! we should-" but then another invisible man produced a very visible knife right infront of her face.

"Angsar's balls!" she snapped, backing away, eyes fixating on the blade as her green eyes crossed, forcing her t back up right into the other invisible man's arms. She barely had time to let out a yelp as she bashed her head back and was dropped unceremoniously to the floor, but the knife man was quick and over her, and she could only see the metal moving across the air as she drew in a surprised breath, flinching as the knife came down for her.

Jazbel cringed as Ellarrah screamed. Their situation was already bad. He didn't need the whole gang to know that they were here! It was practically an invitation. He would have told her to lower her oice, but he was too busy trying to avoid being chocked to death. Jazbel tried to push off the man, but he was much bigger and stronger. He gasped for air as Ellarrah managed to wrung him away from Jazbel, but now the man was upon her. Not wasting a beat, Jazbel massaged his neck with one hand while the other picked up a fistful of sandy dirt and trusted it in his direction. He drew the knife he nicked from the tunnel. Now he truly wished he had stolen a sword.

"No!" he grunted as he lunged for the man with the knife, ramming into him with his elbow.
It was madness; he couldn't see what he was doing, but it must have worked, because the knife missed its target. However, Jazbel felt himself being pulled backwards, and the force of it all caused him to drop the knife by Ellarrah's feet.
"Damn you!" he grunted as he whirled around.
His opponent was invisible, but Jazbel could still feel the heat from his body, and he still made noise. Learning from last time, Jazbel pressed his heel hard into the giant man's shin and delivered an uppercut.  Jazbel could feel him stumbling backwards, but he had to move out of the way as the other man attacked him with the dagger, the metal seemingly floating in mid air, aimed for where his heart should've been.
"Whoa," Jazbel muttered as he clumsily swiveled out of its way.
In the nearyby distance, he could hear horses whinny.
Oh, come on, Jazbel thought, irritated.

While Jazbel was dancing with one of the invisible men, Ellarrah found herself busy with the other.
Having snatched up the knife at last second, she was sudden bulldozed over by such a brute force it knocked the wind clean out of her and she was seeing stars..
but then a moment later- she felt something hot and wet dribble on top of her, and she gasped, watching the man over her seep back into visibility as his eyes were wide with fear, then slowly, the spark of life faded as the man slumped on top of her- dead and staining her with his seeping blood.

Jazbel squirmed at the noise of the knife sinking into human flesh. He only caught a glimpse of what was going on, too distracted by his fight with the man before him. It was more of a one sided dance than a fight, as he was trying to avoid the man from attempting to rip his guts out. The man knocked Jazbel to the ground. The man grunted as he fell hard on his face. Before him  was a decent sized rock, the size of his fist. Witout thinking, Jazbel grabbed it and lunged for the man, hitting him hard on the side of the head head. He watched in shock as the man collasped to the ground, still breathing. Jazbel rushed towards Ellarrah's side, pushing her fallen opponent off of her. It took him two tries to get the corpse to roll on its side. Jazbel grunted as he rolled the man aside, sweat running down his brow.

He withdrew the dagger from the dead man's chest, grimancing at the noise it made. Blood squirted onto his clothes. Jazbel carefully placed the dagger back into its place on the side of his belt; there was no time to take care of blood and such.
"Are you okay, Elle?" he asked, soothingly, though the tone of urgency in his voice was raising.
The voices were getting closer.
"Come on, up. We gotta go, lass," he said as he held onto her arm, trying to coax her to her feet.

Ellarrah took his hand willingly and pulled herself to her feet a bit too quickly that she had to use her other hand to steady herself as she gripped Jazbel's arm. Shaking off her dizzy spell, she looked to him with a nod.
"Yeah, we have to get out of here before any more of those damned invisible men get us," she agreed with a cringe. "I much rather prefer seeing my opponents than flopping around like some god damn fish out of water. It just ain't right." She visibly shivered as the pair began to run. "Magic that is. It ain't natural and always puts me on edge." She peered over her shoulder to where the two men lay, then forward towards whatever path they were running. They were both covered in blood, but they could deal with that later. It was more important to get the hell out of there.
Squeezing his hand, her green eyes sough Jazbel's.
"Where ought we go? My instincts only tell me to get the hell away from here a fast as we can, but without a horse, those men will catch up quick." she frowned at the thought, trying desperately to think of something.
"You don't suppose they'd be stupid enough to just run right past us if we tried to hide ourselves somewhere in the woods? Like in the mud or a cave or something?"
She knew it was a long shot, but it was the only plan she could think of other than running, and she wasn't stupid enough to believe they could out run those horseman she heard echoing off int he distance.

Jazbel tried to laugh, but it came out as a choke as his eyes strayed towards the limp bodies.
"Y-yeah," he said.
He wished he could say more, something a bit more intelligent, but nothing wanted to come out. Nothing really needed to. They were running, now, one foot in front of the other, going faster and faster through the woods. Jazbel felt desperate,  his eyes scanning the scenery. Of course they couldn't out run their enemies, that was madness. However, it was Ellarrah's words that made him realize that those were just thoughts- they needed them to be turned into actions, immediately.
"You're right," he said with a nod, his throat dry.

But what mud? What cave? There was nothing around but bush and grass and river and trees. Jazbel stopped running, and looked thoughtfully at a sturdy oak with thick branches. Autumn leaves adorned it, the golden and orange colors glowing in the light.
"Quickly now," he muttered, grabbing hold of a branch as he pulled himself upwards.
Jazbel's whole body felt sore , due to their recent adventures, but he ignored this as he climbed higher and higher. He stopped what he thought to have been miles high, though of course that was ridiculous. Jazbel reckoned if there was a house, he would be in between the second and third stories. He felt queasy, for being so high, but he hugged the trunk of the tree as he watched Rednet's riders storm through the path, their eyes wandering everywhere. Jazbel held his breath, frozen. He watched as the men on horseback shouted angrily, some riding further along several different paths in search of the pair. His hand inched towards his belt as one looked up, seemingly into Jazbel's eyes. For a half minute, he stared, until the man's attention wavered.
"There's nothin' here! Move!"

Jazbel watched as they rode away into the distance. He reckoned he could see as far as a mile from up this distance, perhaps more. Their figures grew smaller, obscured by the path and trees. He smiled, the sort of smile he used whenever he thought he had said something clever. They had done it, Elle and him. He turned towards the woman, taking deep breaths.
"I'm afraid we're stuck here for just a little while longer," Jazbel said.
"At least until they're done searching for us here."

Ellarrah was quick to follow up and after him, sinking in between branches nearby her companion as she heard the men clattering below. SHe held her breath, tried to press herself more securely between the bunches of autumn leaves while praying to Angsar they would not be found.
Then the men left, and she released her breath and wilted against the tree's trunk.

"I'm fine staying anywhere where we're not being chased," Ellarrah admitted, sighing again and turning her green eyes up towards the skies. It was grey. No blue skies, only grey. Most autumns were always grey. She thought back to her home life, to her brother her family.. his friend..
and for some reason, she awkwardly thought back to the proposal. Her friend's brother had challenged her to a sword fight and when she was bested..
She recalled being so upset, and when the man asked for her hand in marriage- she was furious.

Her lips trembled, she almost whimpered, almost smiled at the memory as she breathed another sigh through her nose.

"We've got plenty of time to kill. Perhaps you could entertain me wiht a story?" she said, leaning against the tree and turning to look at him. "Like, more about where you're from and all that." She raked a hand casually through her unruly red hair, glad to be safe for now. The anxiety would hardly subside. They had people after their heads now. She began to wonder if they would earn wanted posters for this? However, that might seem silly...
a bandit putting a wanted poster up for a bandit..

She snorted. Yes, silly indeed, but she'd seen it happen and had gotten a pretty penny off of a few of those. Deterring herself from her own memories, she turned to Jazzy, anxious to hear about his.

"But wasn't it a thrill?" Jazbel sarcastically asked.
His golden brown eyes, too, ventured up to the gray skies. Well, it was just his luck for a cloudy day. But it didn't smell like rain.
Perhaps this is to our advantage, he mused. The sun would set soon. The darkness could cloak them. Jazbel supposed it might have been an even better thing if it would rain, to cover their tracks, but he wasn't about to push their luck. He stared thoughtfully into the distance, glancing at nothing in particular, when Ellarrah's words drew him back into the present.

His eyebrows arched at the question. A story? Jazbel straightened his posture. Sure, it was an odd request, but some cheer would do them some good. Besides, he was a bit of a vain creature, and he loved to hear himself speak. Generally, he would tell many a tall tale of his adventuers, but Elle was asking about his past, his childhood.
"Where I came from, huh," he muttered.
Jazbel didn't really have some dark, deep secret he contained. It was just something he didn't dwell too much in. He had packed up and left, that was all there was to it. He noticed Ellarrah laughing and jabbed her lightly on the shoulder.
"What's so funny?" he asked, mocking offense.
Jazbel flashed a broad grin and scratched the back of his neck.
He thought for a moment before speaking.
"I don't know what you want to hear," he admitted.
"I'm not from anywhere, other than between my mother's legs, if you forgive my crudeness, madam. I think I told you before, didn't I? Bunch of travelling street musicians. And then, one day, I decided I thought I could do better..."
Jazbel chuckled as he shook his head, ruefully.  Well, being a spy was a lot of fun, though the position , he learned, had landed him in more trouble than he started out in.
"My mother was a talented singer," he said, softly. "Some said she had magic, but it was all really just talent. She knew songs all the way from Essyrn and even one or two from the distant islands."

He hesitated before continuing, picking at the hems of his sleeves. Jazbel didn't know why he was talking about his mother. He could picture the woman now. Heavy set but muscular. A round face framed with  dark purple hair, the same shade as his, with curls that lead down to half way down her back. Her eyes were a darker shade of brown. She had been the biggest prankster of the lot.
"She died a long time ago, though," Jazbel said, quietly. "Gods, I must have been about, what? A little younger than you, maybe. Illness took her, but I was away. I didn't know until I ran into my family again during a mission of mine... One of the last things she asked was if I was married. Fancy that?"
He hollowly laughed at this. He could feel his face grow a little pink at this. Suddenly feeling self conscious and embarrassed, Jazbel posed the question-
"So what about you?"

Where Jazbel was about vanity when he spoke, she didn't know.. she just felt comforted by his words, his stories. Perhaps it was because he had done it by trade she was able to be lulled by it. SHe nestled into her tree branch, staring at him as she leaned against a hand, but when the conversation went to him and marriage, she found her own self blushing and if her heart had still been there, it might have dove into a loop.
Lifting her head, she frowned and lowered her eyes with a shrug.

"Cant' say I have much of a good history. I was always restless, always trying to impress, but I don't really know what for." She honestly didn't- or perhaps still denied the truth to herself. Raising her head, she stared at Jazbel for a moment in thought.
"I learned how to improperly wield a sword, though my brother had shown me a few pointers. But I was never content at home. I guess you could say I was a bit of a brat, never satisfied with what I got until it was too late." She frowned at herself, not sure why it had come out that way, but shrugged it off. The ideals behind it were not where she wanted her mind to be, so she decided it was better to change the subject.
"Why didn't you marry then?" she asked. "You seem to be of good stock, handsome enough."s he said iwth a playful smirk. "Though you seem well past marrying age."
Not that she was meant to be offensive with the last statement, she was just pointing out the truth. Most men his age would have had a wife by now, maybe more...

Jazbel crossed his arms as Ellarrah began to speak. He smirked as she spoke of her restlessness. Aye, he remembered those feelings, when he was younger. The man could easily see a younger and vulnerable Ellarrah in such a fix, learning how to first brandish a sword. It was cute.
"Your poor brother," he said, shaking his head.
Jazbel could only imagine the injuries she would have caused the lad!

He fell silent as Ellarrah commented on her supposed brattiness. Jazbel mused that the woman still had problems with her home that were unresolved, though he did not know quite why. He was about to ask, when she suddenly brought up the marriage issue again. Jazbel's eyes widened as his face blanched, completely caught unaware.
"What?" he asked, his body tensing.
They were talking about her, now. why this? Why.... Jazbel made a face when Ellarrah commented on his age. Oh. She went there.
"Hey," he warned, rolling her eyes.
"I'm at my prime."

Jazbel shrugged.
"I travel between cities frequently, and not always under the same identity. I guess I'm not the marriageable sort, though I can hardly see why ," he said with a mischievous grin.
"Besides, I spent half my life working for nobles. I've wooed many a lady, but  despite my never ending supply of charms and grace, they still deem me underneath their station. But not too beneath them for all things."

Jazbel grinned suggestively before sitting up proudly.
"But I do, uh, have a daughter," he said, almost with fondness. He rarely talked about his daughter. Didn't even think about her, most days. There wasn't much for him to claim, anyway. He hardly knew the child! He had romanced a whore in Adela eleven years ago. He had received a letter a year later explaining plainly that the child existed. Sometimes Jazbel went to visit the child, who was in the Adelan military academy. Jazbel knew the girl didn't recognize him as her father, just as some friend who played her an extra song or two, told funny stories, and had the same purple hair.
"She's kind of like you. A fierce little tyke. Think she goes by Chione, now. Dark skinned, she has my father's face and my hair... Imagine? Heh..."
Jazbel found himself growing excited and became silent, covering his mouth with his hands.  Something always pained him whenever he thought about the kid that could have been his, how life would have been different. He had enjoyed his family life, after all.

Jazbel narrowed his eyes. He didn't want to think about these things, now.
"Where's your brother? How's he doing?" he asked, a little gruffly.
"Why hasn't he found you somebody decent? I don't think your family intended for you to be in trees with old men."

Ellarrah only offered him a smirk when he tried to defend his age. Though as his story went on, she found herself gaping, not exactly having expected to find out, well, he was a father, of all things.
Not that she was jealous, it was just...
She couldn't see him as the type to have a child and leave 'em, though from his expression, and from what she knew about him, that was hardly the case. The man had little choice, and she felt guilty for having forced him to bring that up.

"If she's like me you'd better watch out," she teased, not knowing what else to say, after all. Still feeling awkward, she rubbed at the back of her neck and gave a roll of her shoulders. When the conversation came back to her, she visibly cringed. And she shrugged once again, feeling her shoulders grow tense.

"I only had one man ever interested, and his proposal earned him a punch in the face,"s he stated, wrinkling her nose some. She gave another shrug and continued, "Though I refused him, I still feel a bit guilty for it. After all, both he and my brother... died the next day." She frowned. "Some accident happened. Some rogue mage, an explosion.."s he gritted her teeth, shoulders tensing. "I never heard the whole story."  She grew silent, but sighed after a moment.
"After all of that, and my father getting sick, I just.. had enough of life at home and left. Didn't seem to be much use for me there anyways." She added, idly picking at the fabric of her dress. Gods.. a dress. Such a strange thing to wear.

As Ellarrah began to speak, Jazbel turned his head away for a moment to wipe away at his eyes. He felt a lot more at ease now that the conversation wasn't turned on him. He found it a little ironic, though Jazbel focused entirely on her words. He smiled at the prospect of Ellarrah punching a man in the face at a proposal. However, the smile was wiped clean at the mention of his death.
"Oh," Jazbel said, his shoulders slumping. He didn't expect her story to be so... sad.
The man narrowed his eyes at the mention of an accident. There probably was more to it then that, but he decided to investigate later, perhaps.

After she had finished speaking, Jazbel nodded sagely.
"I understand," he said quietly.
Jazbel offered Ellarrah a thin smile as she played with her dress.
A Connloathian woman in a dress. He still found the image amusing.
"Ah, look," he said with a pout as he reached out for Ellarrah's sleeve.
"You've got a little blood on it. Hmm."
Jazbel let got and shook his head. Well, it was a fine frock, and it was a shame for it to be ruined. He supposed, though, he could always clean it up. It wasn't like he wore that in courts, anyway.
"Do you like it?" he teased.

Ellarrah cast Jazbel a soured expression.
"I like it about as much as if I were sitting on a porcupine," she griped, then shook her head. "Though I suppose a porcupine might be more painful."S he folded her arms across her chest, leaning against the tree trunk. "But only slightly." She finally dawned a smirk and glanced back at Jazbel. "The fabric's at least soft." She ran her fingers fondly down the garment. "Though it's hardly my style. It's just strange is all. Something all soft against my legs and stuff. Though the thing is sorta big on me."She picked at the strappings then eyed up Jazbel. "Do I want to know why you had this in your satchel? You didn't really.." she began to snicker. "You didn't really ever wear this thing, did you?" She pulled at hte dress some, blinking. "Though come to think of it.."s he looked at his eyes and smirked, rubbing thoughtfully at her chin. "You do have lovely eyes. I bet you'd make a lovely Serendipity lady of the court."

Jazbel almost laughed loudly at the porcupine comment, though he quickly covered his mouth to stiffle his voice. He grew cautious of their surroundings. He didn't want their voices to carry out, but so far, he could hear nothing of Rednet's men shouting or running towards them. They were fine, for now. He nodded in eager agreement at Ellarrah's comment on the fabric. Aye, it was easy on the skin. That was part of why he liked the frock.
"You'll get used to it," he said.

A devilish spread across his lips as Ellarrah questioned his purposes of keeping the dress.  He cheerfully nodded, laughing at the expression on her face.
"Why, thank you, love," he smoothly replied in his best impression of a middle aged woman's voice by raising his pitch and softening his tone. For further effect, Jazbel batted his eyelashes.
He chuckled, letting his voice drop back to normal. Jazbel opened his satchel and removed the golden puzzle ball to show glimpses of the make up kits underneath it.
"Disguises, my dear, are part of my profession," he boasted. "It's loads of fun, actually. And I'm very, very good at it."
The man grimly looked at the puzzle ball before shoving it back into the bag.
"And for the record, I do make quite a convincing lady," he said with a smirk. "Maybe more so than you..."

Jazbel's voice faded as a noise reached his ear.
The man gestured for Ellarrah to hush as he reached for the knife on his belt. In the path not too far north, he could see a small party of Rednet's men passing through the woods. It was hard to tell how many there were, but so far, he could count two on horseback. There had to be several more others, because he could hear their yells.
"Are they giving up, already?" he whispered, a little surprised.
Or was there something else back at the fort that needed immediate attention?

Ellarrah was smiling most amusedly at his comments over the trifles and adventures of pretending to be a woman, though her smile soured once he teased her about being a better woman than her.
"Hey!" she narrowed her gaze upon him, folding her arms angrily across her chest. "I'm woman enough." She smirked, pushing a bit on her assets. "And I bet I fill out this silly dress much better you, too. I highly doubt you could be a better woman than me without these."s he said, lewdly pointing to her chest, which, she pushed together even more so with emphasis. After all, might as well show off the girls with as much class as she could. They were trophies, after all. Too many women fell to their erm... ro'bust' charms.


Though when a noise distracted him, she grew quiet, and felt a bit guilty- wondering if she had spoken too loudly to rouse the men's attentions. But at Jazbel's question, she realized she had been holding her breath. Leaning forward, she tried to get a better look as she craned her ears to listen, but they were still not close enough for her to catch wind of what they were talking about.
She turned to look at Jazzy.
"I hope so,"S he whispered. "And not that they had some scout that spotted us up int he tree. They might be coming back here to cut it clean down, or to poke arrows through us."

Jazbel had plenty a thing to reply to Ellarrah's lewd replies, but such a conversation was going to have to wait for a while. His eyes scanned the trees, his brow knit in worry. Jazbel didn't think that there were spies around. He had not observed any rustling of moments in the trees, and they would have been captured by now, had there been a scout.
God I hope not, he thought, shuddering at Ellarrah's words as he stared down at the men by the tree.

They bickered among themselves, their voices carrying out  throughout the woods.  One of the men on horseback was complaining about how tired and sore he was, and how they ought to go find those "demon bastard." He used several other colorful terms that Jazbel could only assume was referring to him and Elle.
"Quiet,"his companion growled. Jazbel recognized his scruffy face.
"Rednet ordered us to go back and help with the mess.," the man ordered, gesturing for his men to follow him.
"Some o' our men are still buried, right?" the one on his feet asked. He dazedly looked up into the tree tops, but the scruffy faced man distracted him.
"Aye," he said, gruffly. "Now let's go."

Jazbel almost let out a sigh of relief. They were calling off the chase! At least, for now. He waited a few moments until they were out of his sight before he took in a deep breath. He had almost forgotten how to breathe.
"Okay," he whispered. "I think we can go, now. Are you ready?"
Jazbel cautiously began to reach out for the branch next to him, trying to remember how in the hell he managed to scramble up so high.  He wasn't afraid of heights, but the man didn't want to break his neck! He grunted as he slowly began to climb down.

Ellarrah nodded and followed after him. She was still a bit shaky, so her descent was a lot quicker than it ought to have been, so when her boots came in contact with a smoother piece of bark, she let out a yelp and found herself snapping  the branch she was trying to catch onto. Gravity did the rest, though in a most peculiar way. Jazbel had been beneath her, and they were nearly to the ground as it were, but anxiety pressed at her nerves and rushed her, and now she found herself falling ontop of Jazbel,snatching onto the tree branch and to.... well other things, Jazbel included, her her limbs and skirts tangled around him as she was half planted in his lap, half planted out of the tree in a most precarious of positions with her ass in the air, skirt hiked up nearly to her bum, one arm on Jazbel's thigh, th eother hand on a tree branch and...
All Ellarrah could do was think...
'Don't scream, don't scream, don't scream.'

Hey, well, at least they weren't cramped up somewhere. She'd rather be dangling from a tree half in Jazbel's lap than find herself stuck inside another stuffy cellar again.

OOC: We enjoy this joke too much... XD
IC:

The climb down was tricky, but Jazbel managed to get through most of the way without hurting himself. Almost. Before he was down to the last branch, safely a foot above ground, Ellarrah fell into him. Jazbel grunted as he landed on his ass on the ground. His tail bone was going to bruise, he could feel it forming already.  His upper body and legs were almost numb due to the shock and pain of the fall, the things in his backpack crushing into him. The man cringed as he heard the sound of something breaking. T It didn't help that intense pain shot through his lap. He was on fire, walking on needles, and being crushed, all at once. Death, he was sure, would have been kinder. The extra uncomfortable weight on himself didn't make it much easier, either. Jazbel's mouth was clamped up tight as he tried his best not to scream, too.

"Oooooh, Kia," he hissed through his teeth, trying to calm himself. It would make it hurt less, right? He turned his head to see what broke. To his dismay, it was his beloved guitar! He almost cried.
Jazbel looked at Ellarrah with a pathetic expression.
"Kindly... get off," he grunted. "Please."
He paused before continuing. Jazbel picked up a fist full of dirt before letting it crumble between his fingers and back onto the ground.
"And help me back up," he instructed, a little sheepishly.
"I don't think I can do it by myself."

Ellarrah lifted her head up, her red hair now being removed against his face where it had fallen into a mess about him. At least they hadn't cracked heads. That would have been more painful.
Studying the man beneath her, she turned to the guitar before peeling herself off of him.
"Gods, Jazzy, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to drop on your like that. My damn boot slipped." she said, rubbing at the back of her neck before offering a hand down to pull Jazbel to his feet.
"Maybe we can repair it or something?" she inquired, taking the broken thing between two hands and studying it, only to hav ea string suddenly snap at her face, making a wretched noise of broken music, but thankfully not cutting into her.
Frowning, she looked back over to Jazzy. "How much do those things cost anyway?"
It must've meant a lot to him for Jazbel to be able to keep tabs of it for so long on their adventure. Ellarrah really only had a few articles she ever kept on her. And she was glad when they had found her brother's sword amongst Rednet's things.

OOC: I hope she found her brother's sword, lol. If not.. WHOOPS.

Jazbel grunted in reply as he allowed Ellarrah to assist pulling him back up to his feet. He was in pain and sore all over. Living on the road had given him a higher endurance, but Jazbel desired nothing more than a clean bed and, if he was very lucky, a back rub. He gave a mournful look at his broke guitar.
"I'm afraid not, lass," he replied, his voice hollow.
They had many adventures together, him and that guitar. He would be sad to see it go. He took it back into his arms, thoughtfully examining the broken instrument. Jazbel wanted to toss the thing into the bushes, but they couldn't afford to leave a trail. Intead, he quickly opened his bag and shoved the pieces in there.
"Expensive, but nothing I can't quickly earn," Jazbel replied.
Just a week on the road, and he'd have enough money.
So long as Ellarrah doesn't drink it all away, he told himself.

He began to walk through the thicket. Jazbel walked with a heavy limp, though his steps slowly improved as time went on.
"Let's just get out of here," he whispered through hushed tones.
"And keep a hand on that blade of yours. We don't know what's out there..."
As if to prove his point, he heard a snap in the bushes a few moments later, but it was only just a squirrel. Jazbel found that his breath had hitched, and he scowled at the creature. He looked up at the evening sky. Jazbel could see the moon hanging overhead already, and he knew that they wouldn't be able to see past their hands in the next hour. He quickened his pace, taking faster steps as much as his pained body would enable him.

Seeing as Jazbel was in pain, Ellarrah kept herself close to his side so he could lean against her for support as the pair walked onwards into the night. Her hand had been on the hilt of her sword when the squirrel stirred, starling them both.
"Angsar's balls,"s he muttere with a shake of her head, then peered up at Jazzy with a frown. "Come on love, we'll keep moving throughout the night. We can't risk stopping in any sort of town. Hopefully us being immortal means we won't have to rest as much eh? And who knows, it could be romantic to camp out beneath the stars." She added with a smirk, a twinkling in her eyes.
"Though it's a shame your guitar had to break. It would have been fun to have you sing a few songs to me to pass the time." She moved nearer to him, reminding him she'd remain close as long as he needed it.  "Though I suppose we could just exchange some silly stories. I'm sure you have lots to share, considering your profession." she said, staring at him with a leerful smuggy sort of grin. "Though I do imagine we need to be rather quiet as we travel- though I don't mind keeping my voice to a whisper." And her leer went softer as she looked at him, then away, eyes to the road. "We do have a long road ahead of us. It's not like the Fell is a hop skin or a jump away."

Jazbel sighed as Ellarrah mentioned they couldn't risk stopping into towns. He supposed she was right, and miserably dismissed those thoughts from his mind.
At least not around here.
Of course they would have to stop by a town sometime. The major cities weren't safe, though Jazbel mused that they could risk Matron's Hollow, if it was on their way.  He scoffed at her idea of romance.  He glanced at her and could tell that she was teasing.

"Maybe," he whispered, airly.
Jazbel nodded thoughtfully at Ellarrah's comment on the road.
"Aye, it's a long one," he agreed, keeping his voice to a hush.
The man offered his companion  a grin.
"I know me plenty of tales, though those will have to wait. And I still have my flute. I prefer it, anyway. Let's just pray that you don't  break it, as well."

Stealthily, he made his way through the forest by the guide of the moon light. It was difficult to see past their  out stretched arms, the darkness was that thick. Jazbel regained his strength and eventually uncoiled his arm from Ellarrah's shoulders. He walked fine on his own, though did not say a word for what seemed like miles. He was too afraid to speak, least his ears did not pick up the sign of approaching horses or scouts. Jazbel walked and walked through the forest. until his steps became luggish and his mind began to wander. To his dismay, it never seemed to end, though he knew the forests in this country were large and wild. 
"How far do you think we are from Rednet's camp?" he whispered boldly, stiffing a yawn.
Jazbel looked around them. All he could see was a large shaped rock and some trees. The moss underneath their barks looked inviting.

"Can't say I ever broke a flute before," she teased in reply, before the pair settled in a long, quiet walk beneath the stars. Though the night was hardly clear, and many clouds rolled over head, chilly winds picking up here or there, but really, most of hte sounds were notably their breathing and the soft hooting of owls. Night crickets on occasion, which, when they'd grow silent, she'd stop to look, but then she'd hear a slithering, realize it was a snake and they'd press on. It was a damn cold night, a dark one too, and she kept as near to Jazbel as she could, despite him now being able to walk more on his own.
When even she began to grow weary, the look of some soft moss beneath a tree and a grove of rocks looked inviting.

"Not sure, thought if feels like we've traveled for hours,"s he said, trying to stifle a yawn.

"We could sleep here. This place is as good as any, and perhaps the rocks might keep out the wind." They were positioned in a good spot to keep that out since they were facing against it.  She bent over and examined it, dusting off this and that, and kicking away some sharp sticks wiht her boots to make the place seem more homely, then turning back to Jazzy, she smirked.
"Seems just like home." she teased, then settled in to ge ta feel for the place, sighing contentedly to finally be off of their feet as her eyes went distant, staring up at a faint glimpse of the stars between a break in the clouds.

Paranoid, Jazbel almost jumped backwards at the slithering of the snake. He let out a sullen hiss when he realized what it was.
"Yeah," he replied with a sigh.
He wished he could walk with as easy a stride as Ellarrah did. Jazbel mused he wouldn't feel safe until they at least entered a city. He liked cities. He liked being anonymous. However, they were far from Rednet's base from his reckoning, though Jazbel wasn't too keen on being out in the open.
"I suppose," Jazbel reluctantly agreed.

He grunted as he lowered himself to sit by Ellarrah and removed his back pack. Jazbel cracked his neck as he massaged his left shoulder. He smirked at Ellarrah's jest on it being home.
"Very cozy," Jazbely dryly agreed. He fumbled with his boots, draining the water out of them. Jazbel placed them to the side before folding his arms behind his head, lying down.
In truth, it wasn't that bad. He was used to this,  as he was, after all, on the road often. Out of the corner of his eye, Jazbel watched as Ellarrah dazedly observed the sky.
"My favorite gown," he muttered with a smile before his expression turned serious.
"You're not too cold are you, m'lady? Shame I don't have anything with me to aid us, I'm afraid."
The man smirked.
"Tomorrow, perhaps, we'll find ourselves in an inn and you in some britches."

"It's a little chilly, " she agreed, yawning tiredly while stretching her arms high above her head before flopping back onto her back and staring up at the skies. She fumbled over the hem of the skirt, looking down at it before smoothing it back into place over her legs. THen she peered over at Jazbel as she mulled over his question.
"I don't know.." she began, her face turning wicked as she peeled up one side of her skirt, folding her leg up as it caught the moon. "I can see why those serenian women wear this things. Ought to get a lot of men's attentions when you can flash your legs all the quicker in these, especially after they've been hiding all day, eh?" She gave a soft laugh and flicked a piece of her unruly red hair from her eyes.
"So might I ask how many times you might have worn this dress? And how many men's heart did you break?" She leaned in a little closer towards him now, after having turned to ly on her belly, green eyes dazzling over the prospect to hear another juicy Jazzy story. She kicked her legs as she waited patiently, fists resting to her cheeks, elbows sinking in the grass.

Jazbel gave a sidelong glance, watching as Ellarrah fumbled with the hem of the skirt. The man wrinkled his nose, it suddenly itching something frightful. He gasped before sneezing into his elbow to muffle the sound. Jazbel rubbed his temples, praying hard to not get sick. Jazbel closed his eyes and smiled at Elllarrah's commentary and questions. His grin only spread when she asked about how many men's heart he broke.
"Oh, at least a dozen," he replied gleefully as he rolled to his side to face her.
Jazbel's eyes gleamed as he recalled adventures in his mind.
"You would want to know, eh?" he teased.
"A proper lady does not flash her legs, if you must know," he continued, mocking indignantly.
"Though it's not quite as scandalous as you make it out to be."
Jazbel wiggled his eyebrows suggestively.

"I use that dress to pose as a noblewoman's handmaid, more oftan than not. You get some good gossip and news that way. This one time..."
If Jazbel had been exhausted or paranoid moments before, signs of it was lost. He jumped into a story of how he posed as a noblewoman's maid while she was visiting a neighboring court with her husband. His hands made wild gestures as he retold the tale of how he became "Bella," and how he was to keep an eye on a neighboring Lord, whom his client had thought was scheming a plot against her house.  After much prying and almost getting caught twice- a randy stablehand had developed a crush on "Bella"- Jazbel had not only discovered that it was not the nobleman himself who was plotting against her household, but his devious son.  Further, he had caught the nobleman with her lord husband between the sheets!

"Of course, only she knew of my identity then. The nobleman himself even hired me for an affair much later and did not recognize me," Jazbel said with a smirk. "The trick is to keep yourself as invisible as possible. Forgettable, if you must. I'm careful to switch them up as I go along. Also to have just a few clients in each kingdom. Can't be too greedy. But I'm a court musician for most anyone."

Jazbel slumped as he recalled that he had a client he was supposed to be serving.
"Ah, but now who knows what'll happen now, eh?"

Ellarrah lightly kicked her feet in the air behind her as his story went on, her eyes shimmering. The story was exciting, and kept her heart racing each time a new detail was presented. It seemed Jazbel had quite a number of skills, and the story was impressive in itself, and had only been but one of many tales he had, she was sure of it.

"So her husband was in the sheets with another lord? HA!" She couldn't help herself but laugh at that. "Oh, to be a fly on the wall of such a place might be kinky." she added, laughing again and turning to lean her cheek into a rested fist. She took Jazbel in, eyeing him over as she rubbed lightly beneath her nose.

"Well, I suppose I could give you the dress back once we get me more fitting attire. Then we can use you to lure out information from men along the way." Her eyes dazzled at the idea, then she took note of a twig trapped within Jazbel's dark hair and moved forward to fetch it. She twirled it idly between her fingers before setting it aside and peering up at him.
"Were you ever married, Jazbel?" she asked suddenly, becoming aware of his age in that moment, for the way the moon cut across his face, it sunk into the subtle creases by his eyes. "I know you said you had a child, but you were never married? I'd think a man like you might have found himself lucky in fetching a wife, though I suppose the open road can be more enticing than chaining yourself to just one girl." she shrugged at the idea, trying to recall what he had said about the woman, the mother of his child. "And sorry if I'm asking it again. I don't know why I thought about it. It just seems you're, you know, kind of a nice fellow. Most nice folks tend to get married." She shrugged again at that thought.  Nice folks, and lucky ones.


OOC: Hopefully I remembered that correctly D: if not I can fix it or maybe Ellarrah just forgot (lol)

"Kinky?" Jazbel repeated, the thrill of the word embarrassing on his tongue. He blushed, and was thankful for the darkness to hide it. He tucked his head in as Ellarrah gently plucked the twig out of his hair. He hadn't even noticed it.
"Oh... Thank you," he replied, rather startled.

Ellarrah's next question caught him off guard.  Jazbel forced himself to smile as he folded his arms behind his head.
"No," he replied with a wry grin.
"It was right of you to ask. Decent men with children have wives, but I am not so decent."
Jazbel chuckled.
"My repertoire has had me in such high demand that I simply cannot choose," he said dryly.

Jazbel shrugged before smiled coyly at Ellarrah.
"What about you lass, eh? Do you have dreams of being a blushing bride?"

Ellarrah wore her same smile as always, perhaps it was even a little bit more smug than usual as she listened with interest to his story. Though when the question was turned back on her, she gasped, exasperated.

"Eh, what sort of question is that?" she turned away, puffing out her cheeks. "Tch.  I suppose every girl has those silly little dreams," she began, sniffing and sitting up now, drawing her knees to her chest to keep herself from squirming against the grass at such a question. Then she shrugged. "I don't know. Marriage seems so confining." She idly itched at her shoulder, as if she had a flea. "Though white dresses seem pretty enough, it doesn't seem practical in my line of work and from what I want out of life." She sighed, groaning a little before staring up at the moon. "That and well, I don't know. I used to take offense over it. I was never really one to just commit. Sure men are all fun and all to play with, but I... just.. I don't know." She wrinkled her nose.
"I mean marriage for my mum meant the end of a lot of things. Her life included. I just can't see myself being willing to risk marriage and love and all of that to spew out a few brats that could kill me on their way into this world. Doesn't seem very fun or logical." She shrugged again. "So yeah, love? Marriage?" she wrinkled her nose. "Not the sort of thing for me."

Jazbel smirked at Ellarrah's squirmish reaction towards his question. He relaxed as he listened to her speak, wearing a lazy grin on his face.
That is the sort of answer she would give, he thought.
Jazbel didn't want to admit it, but such an ideology seemed a little immature, though he'd carried the same ideology all this time.
Those days are one.
Not quite, of course. But Jazbel tried to imagine himself settled, and couldn't. Well, his parents never quite 'settled'. They were happy together.
Jazbel vaguely wondered why he thought it was just as constricting if he seemed to have a more positive experience, but he didn't dwell on it. He didn't have many regrets on the matter, even when the road got lonely. The man yawned, his eyelids growing heavy.
"Well, it would be frightfuly hard for you to find a husband anyhow," he playfully teased. "Though I suppose you could threaten a poor, handsome
rich nobleman with your sword for his name."

Jazbel paused to listen to the forest, but all he could hear was the chirping of insects and the hoot of an owl.
"Good night, my lady," he said, closing his eyes and making himself comfortable.  "Sleep well."

He woke up the next morning to off tune singing of a witty ballad about a foolish knight and his misadventures. Jazbel knew the melody well, and the singer was absolutely butchering it.
"Elle, stoooooop," he whined, except the singer wasn't Ellarrah.
The voice was too low, too masculine.
Jazbel's eyes snapped open.
It was early in the morning, just an hour or two after dawn, he figured. It was a little hard to tell through the trees. Jazbel jolted up, and rubbedEllarrah's shoulder.
"Woman, get up," he hissed as he quickly grabbed his things.
A bandit?!

Jazbel ducked as the voice drew nearer and nearer. Gesturing for Ellarrah to be silent, though he wasn't quite sure if she was awake, Jazbel crept towards the grove
of rocks and peaked beyond it. A cheerful looking man was leading a horse who was leading a large cart. A small boy sat in the front, swinging his legs as he amused himself with the scenery.
The man looked unarmed, though looks were deceiving. Jazbel beckoned for Ellarrah to join him with an urgent and excited expression.

Ellarrah groaned and rolled over, burying her face in the dirt and grass.
"Ten more minutes."
But as she realized the urgency in his tone, she sat up suddenly, hearing the singing as well. At first she didn't quite understand why he Jazbel seemed so afraid. Clearly someone that sung so god-awful and off key could hardly be see as being harmful. So as she crept beside him and peeped over the rocks, her face twisted in confusion.

"Looks like a regular old cart to me. Do you think they're friendly?" she wondered, her voice hushed and harsh. "Eh, and if they are friendly, perhaps we can sweet talk them into a bite to eat and a ride into the next town?" she nudged Jazbel playfully and gave a shrug. "Come on, what's the worst that can happen? There's just a man and a little boy anyways. I'm pretty sure we could take 'em if we had to. But let's try the simple approach first, eh?"
Smirking, she rose up from behind the rocks, smoothing her dress down and her hair, which was still as unruly as ever as her green eyes cast upon the wagon before them, waving them down.

"Hey, you there! Which way are you folks headed?" and she grinned, planting her hands to her hips as the man looked over at the pair with some confusion, and the boy right next to him, giggling as he had been watching the pair crawl out from behind a series of rocks.

"We're heading up North." the man said, keeping his hands firm upon the reins. He looked the pair over skeptically, especially with how broad Ellarrah's grin was.

"Hey, do ya happen to have any room in your wagon for a couple of stow aways?" her grin grew even bigger as the man was taken back by her question. "You see, the pair of us have been traveling for an awfully long time. We've hit a bit of a horrible spell of luck and found ourselves thieved of our horses. If the pair of you wouldn't mind assisting, we'd be awfully grateful to you both and could perhaps spare some coin in return if you let us stay inside the back."

And some how it happened, and the pair WERE allowed to stay in the back, Ellarrah now resting her hands behind her head as she peered up at the clouds as they stretched by. The cart was full of chickens, so Ellarrah made it a point to ignore the clucking noise and feathers, she was just happy to be getting somewhere and with some sort of plan.

"This is great. We'll be heading north and far away from this place in no time. Chicken feathers aside, I think I kind of like this wagon." Ellarrah said, trying to make light of the situation as she plucked a white feather from Jazbel's hair.  "Do you think, though, we'll just eat eggs on this whole trip?" she made a face. "I can only tolerate eggs for so long, but it seems these chickens are just full of them."

"I dunno," Jazbel wispered back when Ellarrah inquired about their friendliness. He initally frowned at Ellarrah's first assumption- there was plenty that could go wrong- but he said nothing. Instead, Jazbel sighed as he watched Ellarrah waved the man with the cart down. He locked eyes with the boy, who stared at the two quizzically.
"Up north, huh," Jazbel muttered to himself.
He wondered how the two were managing, getting through these woods without being bothered by bandits.
The large bear of a man examined them both for half a moment before gesturing for them to climb into the cart.

Jazbel quickly learned that the father's name was Ganin Brimdorf, and his son's Vaan. How far north, Ganin didn't say, but he warned the two that he would drop them off at the nearest abled village, and "then they'd have to go." Wise and skeptical words, to be sure, though Jazbel hoped that if they won good favors with the gentleman, Ellarrah and him would be secured with a ride for a bit further. Playing some music to passed the time always helped.

Jazbel stared nervously at the hen next to him. He was almost tempted to pet it. At the same time, he was certain it was going to try to peck his eyes out.
So many, Jazbel thought, grimly. He sat awkwardly in the corner, protectively shielding his bag from the chickens.He had never really been fond of the creatures. He smiled, though, as Ellarrah plucked a feather from his hair.
"Maybe we can eat one of them," he said, his eyes gleaming.
He looked pointedly at the brown hen beside him.

"You can't do that. You can't eat Nini," the boy said with a scowl.
Jazbel blinked, confused.
"Nini?"
Vaan nodded.
"She's mine," he said, with a proud glint in his eye.
"What's that you folk talking about?!" Ganin boomed.
Jazbel cringed and gave Ellarrah an embarrsed shrug.

"Meant nothing by it, good sir," he said as cheerfully as possible.
"She just looks, err... very healthy, is all."
To Jazbel's surprise, Ganin burst into a deep belly laugh, roaring through the threes. Jazbel winced.
Please not so loudly, he thought, his eyes glancing around the forest. Don't want everybody to know we're here!
"Aye, these chickens are my pride," Ganin said. "We're going to sell some in the market. Will be sad to see them go."
"Indeed," Jazbel replied. He turned to Ellarrah, gesturing for her to lean in close.
"Listen,  be on your guard, okay?" he whispered.
"What are you doing?" the boy asked, curiously.
Jazbel smiled, thinly.
"How about a song?" he asked.

Vaan nodded, excited. Jazbel threw Ellarrah a pointed look before rummaging through his bag to find it. The man wet his lips before joining in, playing the main melody of the song Ganin had been singing. Ganin joined in, so Jazbel switched to the harmony so as not to sound as a competition. He was grateful that he could not hear Ganin's voice so well in the back of the cart while he was playing. The sound of  the flute drowned out all the bad notes.

Too bad the flute couldn't drown out Ellarrah's bad notes. She was on key enough, but a note here or there she just couldn't quite hit, but she sung all the same. Time passed surely, and despite the fact they were on the run, it seemed the young woman was in good spirits.
"Say, Jazzy, do you know that little diddy about frog who caught the fly? It's always a fun song I used to sing when I was traveling with my family when I was younger. It really helped to pass the time you know, though it seems like we've gotten pretty far now, eh? How far do you think we've come?"

Ganin shifted his weight at the wagon's front. "Suppose we've been on the road a good few hours now. There'll be a small settlement up ahead if the pair of you want to get off there, but we'll keep passing through. Have to get to Higgenball before the morning."

"Aye, Higgenball. I remember that town. Aimin' to sell the chickens there? They have quite the nice market."

"Yeah, a few there. But Vaan's got an Aunt we were hoping to see before pressing even further north to Ridgewall."

"Ridgewall? Landsake's, that's pretty bloody far north."

Ganin only nodded. "Aye."

Growing silent, Ellarrah thought it over and turned to Jazzy, nudging his rib.
"Aye, ain't the fell pretty far north?" she whispered.

Time passed, and Jazbel gradually grew to relax, though his eyes still darted to and fro now and then. They were safe, for now, but the two of them could never be too sure.  He thoughtfully glanced at the kid. Jazbel was oddly highly aware of his immortality, though that probably was because of their ordeal. It would be okay if anything were to happen to him or Ellarrah- though Kia forbid- but that kid and his father were still alive. They were carrying precious cargo, they needed to be careful.
I need to send a letter, too, he reminded himself.

Jazbel frowned as Ganin talked, trying to map out their journey in his head.
Higgenball? Jazbel passed through the town before. It was pleasent and large enough where strangers would be in abundence. If need be, they could easily hide there. He smirked to himself as Ellarrah chatted with Ganin. Jazbel's eyes widened at the mention of Ridgewall. He whistled through his teeth. The boy and the man didn't have much  luggage with them. Why that far north? Jazbel nodded slowly at Ellarrah's question.
"Yes, it is," he muttered. Fell was beyond the mountains, beyond even the northern lands.
We're going to need furs, Jazbel realized, groaning. He hoped the market would earn them a large purse.
To Ridgewall would take them half way there, he reckoned. Jazbel decided to press on the subject later. No need to wary their host with their troubles for now.

Ganin smiled warmly at the two.
"You play well, master..." he started to say. Jazbel waved his hand.
"Forgive my manners!" Jazbel apologized. "You may call me Rowan."
He patted Ellarrah's arm.
"And this is my...  lady wife, Brira," he said, coming up with the first name that came to his mind.
Jazbel was a little hesitant to use the term wife, especially after their conversation last night, but they were on the run. This man would no doubt kick them out if he thought their relationship was anything less! Ganin seemed satisfied though, nodding cheerfully.

"Well met," Ganin said, politely.
"Yes," Jazbel agreed. He hesitated before continuing.
"Master Ganin, if you don't mind the question," he said, feigning concern.
"But why the rush to Higgenball?"
Ganin's mood fell as his jaw hardened, his expression grim. Vaan, too, fell awfully silently.
Interesting, Jazbel thought with a smirk.
They were hiding a secret, no doubt. Well, mysteries were fun, so long as they didn't hurt the journey!

"Well," Jazbel said with a satisfied sigh to lighten the mood, "I, for one, would be glad to be  rid of these woods."
He turned towards Ellarrah and tugged a strand of her hair.
"Is't that right, sweetheart?" he said, the laughter shining in his eyes.

Higgenball, Ridgewall, it was all just a clattering of names and locations. Nothing really stuck to her, except the fact Jazzy just called her his wife! Her eyes widened, appalled at the idea, and her tanned skin already looked pale. But then when she realized they were, after all, needing to conceal their identities from Rednets men, she forced out some OBVIOUSLY fake laughter at her 'sweet hearts' words.

"Yes, the pair of us have been so happily married for like, a good while now." She laughed, fakely, and pinched and patted at his cheek. "It was his flute that drew me to him." And she laughed again,a nd once the conversation grew quiet, she cut Jazbel a sharp look and pinched his arm. BUt she too, couldn't help but notice Ganin's change of disposition.

"Do you think we ought to change the subject?" she whispered, leaning into Jazbel. "You know, to perk up their spirits? It seems we touched on something sensitive. Now I ain't implying I'm some weak sod at heart, it's just- he looks so sad." She blinked, then looked to Jazzy, smirking a bit impishly. "Perhaps he was jealous I was already married." she said, curling a finger into her red hair.
"But hey, secrets always lend to adventures. ANd oh, if I'm your wife, where's my ring?" she hissed, throwing an empty hand to him- not a single finger had a ring on it. "Maybe we can play it off we're just a poor couple, or it was stolen." Ellarrah muttered, fingering around her ring finger where a wedding band ought to lay, and wondered, curiously, how it might feel to actually have a real wedding ring there.

Jazbel tried to conceal rubbing his temples at Ellarrah's laugh. He should have remembered that subtlety wasn't her best trait.  Jazbel smiled as convincingly as he could as Ellarrah talked. Ganin nodded gruffly.
"You play well," he said.
"Thank you," Jazbel replied with a thin smile. Jazbel didn't know what to take Ganin's reaction as, but then Ellarrah leaned in to speak to him. He nodded thoughtfully as she spoke.
"I don't know," he muttered. Ganin's behavior WAS odd...

Jazbel gulped at Ellarrah's question about a wedding band.
A ring. Kia, but he didn't think about that.
"Some folk don't exchange rings," he agreed, his eyes looking around the forest.
"What are you looking for?" asked Vaan, curiously.
"What?" Jazbel replied, startled. "What'd you ask?"
"I asked what you were looking for," the boy replied. "You look scared of something."

"Oh," Jazbel replied with a nervous chuckle. "It's nothing. It's... these roads aren't safe, that's all."
Vaaan's face brightened.
"That's okay," he said. "Dad and I..."
"Vaan!" Ganin barked harshly. Vaan frowned and bowed his head.  Ganin's expression softened as he turned to face Jazbel.
"We won't be bothered,"he said.
All was quiet for a moment before Ganin started humming a ditty. Jazbel shuttered. He was pretty sure he knew the story and lyrics of the song, but Ganin's lack of talent made it almost impossible to decipher the melody.
"The sooner we get to the village, the better," he groaned into Ellarrah's shoulder.

Ellarrah nodded her head in agreement. It felt all icky and tense now that that awkward moment had occured. Though it had her questioning a lot of things, and her eyes, too, went out to the woods. But it wasn't long before the soft murmur of the town was heard, and the town itself began to pull into view. It seemed to perk up everybody's spirits as they rolled into town.

"Look at that, seems there's a weddin' going on," Ellarra said, watching as a crowd was gathering around a church, people signing of wedding hymns.

"Aye. Hopefully they'll be enough room at the local inn. If not, we'll have to press on to Archbury," Ganin grumbled.
Turning to the man, Ellarrah smiled.
"Well, for now, why don't we help ya out? You seem to have your hands full. It would do you some good to utilize us as your assets. After all, you were kind enough to share the road and your mule and cart. It's the least we can do." Ellarrah turned to Jazzy with a smile. After all, if they got in good with him, they could perhaps form an amicable alliance and get them further north. Ever closer to the fell.

Ganin stared at the pair skeptically.
"Do the pair of you even know how to handle chickens?"

And Ellarrah played it off, draping an arm nonchalantly around her 'husband's' shoulder.
"But of course, love. My husband and I tended to chickens on his grandmother's farm, that we did. A few years back, when we was still courtin'."

"A wedding?"
Jazbel perked up at the mention of one of those. He sat errect as he watched a  group of people clearly dressed  in their best clothes, singing their praises. Jazbel beamed. Weddings always loved an extra musician or two, especially during the later hours.
"I hope we can stop here," he breathed.
His wallet needed filling, and the wedding would be safe. They would be anonymous here.
I could pay Ganin back and afford a new guitar in  no time, he thought, gleefully.

Jazbel moaned lightly at the mention of chickens. He glared at Ellarrah as she talked about his 'grandmother's farm'.
My grandmother grew up on the road and whose voice could have Resurrected the dead to tell her to shush, he thought, girmly. He had never even strangled a chicken before. What sort of game was she playing at, anyhow?
"Yes ," he said through clutched teeth, rubbing her shoulder. Jazbel tried to ignrore the chicken from before glaring at him. It made the man nervous.
"Anyway, I know a good place we  can stay," Jazbel offered, changing the subject. He was no stranger to this village, and had stayed here, before. The inns around the wedding were crowded, but Jazbel instructed Ganin to a small inn,  just a fifteen walk from the wedding. They managed to get two rooms cozy rooms, one for him and Ellarrah, and one for Ganin and his boy.

OOC: sorry if this is kind of loopy im super tired lol

It was nice to have a moment of privacy, even if it was her and Jazbel in the same room. Ellarrah sat back on the bed, kicked her boots back before collapsing onto it on her back. Staring up at the ceiling, she sighed and simply melted into the bed, toes digging into the floor.

"Aye, feels good to have a moment of rest after running for so long." She paused for a moment, realizing something was off, and the smile on her lips faded as she recalled what was missing. The beating of her heart.  She touched a hand to her chest, as if to confirm, but she felt nothing, no pulse in her wrist, no beating thumping out from her heart.

"Jazzy, doesn't it feel odd? To think we can run so fast or feel so anxious, yet there's no response inside our chest. Having no heart is weird, I tell ya. I don't think I much like it. Hopefully we can get to the Fell quickly and be done with this mission, lest we be stuck this way." She shivered then turned on her side on the bed, poking at a lump in it before looking up at Jazzy through a few of her disheveled red locks.  "What do you think will be at the Fell once we get there? I've only heard myths about it. Never thought I'd actually get to set foot in such a place." She wrinkled her nose a bit at the prospect, before poking at the lump in the bed yet again.

Jazbel carefully placed his things down on a table besides the bed before joining Ellarrah, lying down face flat. Immediately, he allowed his body to relax as he took in the senation of the soft pillows, sheets, and blankets.
This feels amazing, he thought with a grin, grateful to be finally out of cellers and that blasted cart .
"Mhm," he replied to Ellarrah as he turned his head so that he could see her.

Jazbel listened to his companion quietly, his arms wrapped around his pillow. His expression turned somber as he mulled over her words.
I don't want to think about this now, he thought with a sigh, but he knew their mission needed thinking over.
"Spiders and ancient architecture, most likely," he replied in a dull voice. Jazbel grunted as he raised himself to be sitting up. He sniffed the edge of his collar and wrinkled his nose. He needed a bath.
There's got to be one somewhere, he thought, rummaging through his bag.
"Fell's magic, I think, can't hurt us. We're not magic folk," Jazbel said. He hesitated for a moment before grabbing his flute.  "I don't know what will happen, but I have a feeling Rednet's men will be more dangerous than whatever is awaiting us at Fell."

He walked towards the other side of the bed and playfully tugged at a lock of red hair.
"Now,' Jazbel said with a smile, "I'm a mess, and so are you. I'm sure there are women baths near by. Afterwards, I can earn some coin to get you a pair of trousers. The road to Fell is dangerous, and I would not appreciate that frock being tattered any further."

"Aye, some trousers would be nice, Jazzy. I"m still not sure how I feel about this frock." She said, lightly playing with the ends of it, twirling the fabric between two pinched fingers. THen she looked up at him, wrinkling her nose.
"Are you calling me stinky?" Her comment, obviously directed about the comment on the bath. "THough I suppose you're right. It would be nice to freshen up and a nice hot bath would do me some good. I recall that last time I tried to bathe.." She wrinkled her nose, recalling when one of Rednet's men walked in on her-
and the chaos hadn't ceased since.

"It would be nice to just relax before traveling again. The road is pretty long. I've never been that far north before."

Jazbel shrugged.
"It's not so bad," he said. "But it gets frightfully cold. We're going to need warmer things than the clothes on our backs."
With that, Jazbel gestured for Ellarrah to follow him out of the room. He locked the door before cheerfully going down the steps. What little energy he had left was vibrant. Jazbel knew they weren't entirely safe in this town and it was probably best to lie just a bit low, but if they could bathe, he could always return and don a disguise to freely earn coin. 
The only thing would be to avoid Ganin...

Just as he expected, the communal bath house was not too far from the inn. The women's baths were to the left and the men's to the right.
"Meet me here in an hour," he said.
It was a luxurious amount of time, especially for a bath, but they both deserved luxury. With that, Jazbel entered the men's side. The floors were tiled with men sitting on towels around a pool or swimming in the water. He wrinkled his nose. In truth, the place smelled like sweat. Jars of oil, soap, and scrapers were by the side of the pool. Jazbel stripped and neatly piled his clothes on a bench before grabbing a clean towel from a  servant, wrapping it around his waist. 

He sat by the edge of the pool, dipping his toes into the water. The water was warm. He splashed it over his legs, rubbing his sore muscles.
"What have you gotten yourself into, Jazbel," he muttered.
"Mr. Rowen!"
Jazbel's ears perked up when, suddenly, Vaan's face popped out of the water, his hair pressed flat on his forehead.
"Agh!" Jazbel shouted, surprised. His face blanched.
"Where's your father?" he asked.
When'd they get here?
Vaan waved his hand towards the other end of the pool. It was crowded there, but Jazbel picked out Ganin's face easily. He frowned.
Great, he thought to himself with a sigh.  Jazbel had wanted the time to himself, but that looked like it wasn't going to happen. Well, he still was in the middle of an act, after all.  He smiled at the boy.
"That's nice," he replied with a thin smile.

Ellarrah was much more lucky on her side of the bath.
"An hour?" she had said, giving Jazzy a playful smirk and nudge. "Sounds like you've got a lot of kinks to work out." The idea was kinky. "But I could use a nice long bath, too. So I'll see you in an hour, love." And she waved at him, fingers wriggling before disappearing to her side. The woman's bath was perhaps slightly less crowded than the men's, only due tot he fact that as she was entering, a large group of elderly ladies, and a family, was leaving.

The steam coming off the waters felt good, the air humid as she peeled off her clothes. Ugh, skirts. She'd have to be delicate with Jazzy's dress, as she actually took the time to fold it aside. Much less could be said about her own things as her under garments came off, dumped carelessly to the floor, even getting a litle wet (not that she cared) as she slipped into the waters with a satisfying smile.

And Ellarrah just let herself soak, her mind drifting away off to nothing much at all, but after a time, she could hear some voices carry when the women's bath had grown quiet. It was just her and three other women about her age enjoying the clean waters for the day. but yes, with the place not so crowded she could easily hear things happening on the men's side of the bath- and she thought she heard the familiar voice of the child, Vaan.

Ellarrah smirked, and didn't bother to move to wash herself at first, but then soon was reaching for some of the soap, lathering it across her skin in thing, lacy white bubbles. And it felt amazing.

If only he could get some peace. Jazbel slipped into the pool and scrubbed his hair with soap while Vaan eagerly chatted about the farm and the chickens and how he enjoyed the road, though he wished he and his father could have stopped by at this festival.
Children are exhausting, Jazbel discovered as he dunked his head under the water. Still, if his father wasn't eager to be handing out answers, perhaps Vaan would.
"So you're on your way to visit your aunt, huh?" Jazbel casually asked. Vaan's face fell.
"Yeah," he said after a moment's hesitation.
"It must be tough being kicked out of your home," Jazbel continued, sympathetically.
Vaan's face blanched in alarm.

"What?" he yelped.
Jazbel patted his head, and offered him a warm smile.
"It's okay, boy," he said. "I know how it is to live on the road. It's tough, isn't it?"
Vaan  relaxed and smiled shyly.
"I guess," he admitted, "but I'm tough! I..."
The boy paused. Jazbel arched a brow, but did not inquire about it.
"I'm sure you are," he smoothly responded.
Change the subject.
"Where'd you keep the chickens?" he asked.
Vaan beamed.
"In the stable," he explained. "One of the horses died, so the innkeeper is letting us use their pen! Say..."
The boy then broke off to ask  Jazbel a splew of questions, especially regarding the stories he knew. Jazbel patiently answered each of them, though he secretly was impatient to speak with Ellarrah.

Ganin finally noticed his boy was paying too much attention to Jazbel, and whether it was for Jazbel's sake or his own, it was hard to discern as he called out to the child, stating they were done with their bath.
Vaan, pouting a little, obeyed and turned to Jazzy with a leftward grin.
"Perhaps you can share more stories with me later!" he said, then waved to him as he rushed out of the bath and into the towel his father had waiting for him. Ganin, wrapping his son within it, sighed as he peered over at Jazbel.
"We'll be upstairs in the Inn if you need us," he informed, the nodded and headed out, the men's bath becoming less crowded by now as the day rolled closer to night.



On the women's side, it was almost vacant by now, and Ellarrah, nice and squeaky clean. But she enjoyed this so much, that as she stretched out within the waters, she curled her toes up against the surface of it and stretched back, closing her eyes and not realizing how content she was since quickly, she had fallen asleep.

"Of course," Jazbel responded to Vaan, eagerly. Well, the boy was a handful, but a couple of stories was harmless, and Jazbel enjoyed relating a tale or two. He watched as the two left, rather grateful  for the time to himself. He let out a sigh as he sunk into the warm water, allowing himself to finally truly relax.

Forty minutes later with his clothes and body both washed and dried, Jazbel sat in front of the bathhouse and played his flute, entertaining passerbys. Now and then, somebody would toss a coin by his feet, which he would quickly step on and pick up. He figured he might as well play while he waited for Ellarrah. However, he started to grow worried as the sky grew orange and red.
What's taking her so long? Jazbel thought as he bowed graciously towards a lady who tossed him a copper coin. He wondered vaguely if he had to travel to the inn just so that he could sneak by at the baths as a lady. He hadn't known an hour to be longer. Jazbel was never the impatient type, but the man supposed that it was due to his missing heart.
This business with Rednet is pulling a number on us, he mused as he picked up the coin. At least you're getting something done in the meanwhile.

The sound of the flute eventually coaxed her back into the waking world, and once she did,s he found herself slipping into the baths, her head going under the water as she gasped, sputtered and resurfaced. Sputtering out water, she groaned, cursing up a storm (which Jazbel would have heard, no doubt)- things along the lines of "How the fuckin' hell did I fall asleep!?" and other such colorful words that would make the deity she was degrading, blush.

She rubbed at her eyes, scrambled to get to her towel and did a half ass job of drying herself off before redressing, clothing sticking to her all over as she hissed and worked at wringing out her hair. She was still doing that as she stepped outside, spotting Jazbel playing his flute as she stood beside him.

"Sorry about that, Jazzy,"s he grumbled, then tossed her hair off of her shoulder once most of the water had been wrung out. "I must've been more exhausted than I realized." she raked a hand through her hair. "Since I fell asleep in the bloody bath waters." And it seemed to do anything but quell her soured spirits as she groaned.
Takign a seat beside him, she sighed and took a look into his face. "Have you been waiting long?"

Jazbel saw Ellarrah out of the corner of his eye, and stopped to greet her.
"It's quite alright, my dear," he said smoothly with a relieved grin. Though he had waited for quite some time, Jazbel lied and shook his head.
"Just long enough to afford you a pair of trousers. A tunic if you're lucky, I think," he said as he dropped most of his coppers into her hands, keeping but three to himself.
"Nothing fancy, mind you," he said. "But see if we can't find you something warm. Tomorrow, anyway."
Most of the shops were already closed. Besides, it was clear that Ellarrah was exhausted, and Jazbel figured he could sleep early, himself. He patted her shoulder before raising to his feet and began to walk towards their inn.

Ellarrah groaned and rubbed at her eyes again.
"Aye, if it were me, I'd have been bored out of my mind waiting. Though I probably would have charged on into the bath and dragged you out." She shook her head. "Though thanks for the offer of coin." she smiled and tossed her hair off of her shoulder. "Perhaps I'll get myself those trousers you said." And she gave him a wink, then turned with her hands to her hips, studying the street. "I guess the inn's just down the way?"

Jazbel gave a saucy grin at Ellarrah's words.
"I'd like to see that," he teased, ruffling her mane of hair. "And no problem. Consider it a gift."
Indeed, Jazbel felt surprised at this notion. He never really gave out much gifts, always expecting something in return. Yet, here he was, giving money to this woman, and not expecting anything back! Well, she did save his arse many a time, and probably would in the future. That was a sort of payment. Plus, he DID want that dress back.
"You deserve it," he continued, which was true.
Jazbel nodded at her question, leading the way back towards the inn.

The inn was full with people who had strayed from the wedding. There was hardly any room to walk around. Jazbel held Ellarrah tight by the hand as he lead the way through the ocean of people. He picked up pieces of gossip here and there bout the wedding, but also curious things about mages, none of it good. A man was currently trying to stand on top of a table in attempt to make a speech. Jazbel's jaw hardened, his good mood suddenly gone.
"Come on, love," he muttered, ushering Ellarrah up the steps.
"Let's avoid this madness."

Ellarrah blushed a little but smirked at Jazbel's words, rolling her eyes as he ruffled her hair. She pushed his hand away.
"A gift? Bah, well, I'll take anything, considering our current predicament,"S he said with a frown. "And I'm not sure how well I deserve it, but I'll definitely take advantage of this generosity if you keep it up,"s he said with a wink.

And as the pair entered inside the Inn, there was some incredible talk about mages being apprehended inside all of Connlaoth. Something about marching them north towards camps. She didn't get the whole gist of it, but it was strange. Since it concerned her little, she ignored it for now and nodded to Jazbel, squeezing his hand as they pressed on.
"Yeah, let's get out of this place and fast.  I just hope our rooms are ready and they give us no fuss about them-" but no sooner did she mention her desire to avoid a fuss did someone walk clean into her, causing her to stumble into Jazbel.
"Hey! Watch where you're going!" Ellarrah snapped, glaring daggers at the larger man as he turned around.

He was large, tall and plump. He was also jovial as he was full of alcohol. He only laughed and nodded his head to the pair.
"Sorry 'bout that! Sometimes my body has a will of it's own! It's cause there's so much of it!" And as he laughed, crudely, he managed to spit on Ellarrah's face (by accident) in the process.  Her face fell, she grit her teeth, completely disgusted by the display and clenched her hands into fists and wiped the spit aside. She looked as if ready to strike out on the man who had no idea he was angering a woman who could become as lit as a wild fire.

"Then why don't you watch where your fat ass is going!?" she snapped, ad the man looked at her, his face twisting in confusion before he gave another laugh, this time spitting (inadvertently,) on Jazzy.

Jazbel shuttered as he whipped the spit off of his face. He placed his hands gently on Ellarrah's shoulders.
"No need to cause a fight," he  whispered. They had no time to be drawing attention to themselves and making enemies! Jazbel flashed the man an easy grin.
"I'm so sorry about that," he said quickly.
"S'alright," the man slurred. "Didja hear wut she called me?!"
He burst into a fit of uncontrollable giggles.
"Yes," Jazbel said with a sigh. "Very nice to meet you, good sir!"

Once they reached the safety of the stares, Jazbel nudged Ellarrah's shoulder.
"Oi," he said with a concerned expression on his face. "You didn't have to lash out like that. He was only drunk. This is a really public place, Ella-"
Just then he saw Ganin enter the inn and narrowed his eyes.
"Thought he came in with his boy much earlier," he muttered, gesturing for Ellarrah that they'd better leave, quickly.
Had the man left the kid in the room to take care of some business?

"Just because a man's drunk doesn't mean it gives him the right to be stupid," Ellarrah complained, but sighed none the less. Jazbel was right. "Alright, alright, you were right."s he muttered, shaking her head as she followed him back towards their room, though she too, was surprised to see Ganin by himself. "Hey, that is strange. I wonder where the boy is? He seems awfully young to be left on his own. Boys his age tend to get in a lot of trouble."

 Jazbel supposed Ellarrah was right, but he was too tired to argue such things. Jazbel closed the door behind them and locked it. He shook his head as Ellarrah spoke.
"Maybe," he retorted. "But the lad might have been able to stay put. Ganin is a firm one."
Jazbel promptly put his things away, kicked off his shoes, and took off his shirt before flopping into his side of the giant bed.

"But don't worry bout the lad now, love," he muttered into the pillow. This was purhaps one of the only times Jazbel did not want to investigate anything, nothing in the slightest. All he wanted was sleep! Still, part of him felt very uneasy. He arched his brows at Ellarrah's direction.
"You're... not planning on investigating right now, are you?" he asked in a low voice, sort of hoping that he was wrong. Because if he was right, well, damnit, he'd just have to join in the fun!

Ellarrah sat at the edge of the bed, still itching over the squabble from down stairs....
and over the fact she was curious as to what Ganin was up to. THough she supposed it was none of her business, if they were traveling with the bloke, she felt she should know atleast a little about him. She sighed and shook her head as she lowered it.

"I don't know. I don't even know if I could sleep right now, Jazzy. My mind is racing a million miles a minute, and I'm thinking over just too many things." She shook her head again. "What if Ganin's got some secret that's even bigger than Rednet's men? Though I doubt it....  I mean, for all we know he's smuggling mages or working against the government. You know acts like that could make you lose your head!" And she didn't exactly wish to find herself on the chopping block.

Jazbel listened to Ellarrah. He thought for a moment.
She might be onto something.
Still, it was late, and the spy knew that there was a time for everything. He gently patted the mattress. He rubbed his temples and gave a tired grin.
"Ach, give it a rest for a night, Elle," he said, gently. "I agree we should be keeping an eye on him, but now's not the time. We've had an ordeal, and there's more ahead. If Ganin is a smuggler, as you say, and by Kia's will we get caught along with him, I can simply make the case that I was on the job. Your life, I assure you, is intact. Now turn off the lamp and rest."
He beckoned for the woman to come to the bed.

"It's not really my life right now I'm worried about," Ellarrah muttered as she flopped down onto the bed. She shook her head. "We've had our hearts stolen, who knows if we can really die until that damn curse is lifted. I just.. I wish we could be done with this all quickly and get back to our lives and pretend it never happened. I'm uneasy around magic, and the fact I don't have a heart and some bizarre magical creature, some.. cursed puzzle sphere did this to us, makes my skin crawl every time I think of it." She frowned. "And to think, the fell is a place full of magics and curses itself. I never wished to ever go there, not if I could help it, but I suppose not much can be done about that." Groaning, she rolled over onto her back an stared up at the ceiling and closed her eyes, shaking her head.

"I just wish I had never messed with that thing. Then we'd never been in such a predicament," she griped, then sighed and wilted into the bed. "But sadly, that's all water under the bridge, and all we can do now is see what can be done while we're floating against the current like some old leaf or debris that's being swept away against it's will."

Jazbel grunted as the woman threw herself into the bed, causing his bones to moan. He boldly looked at her in the eye as she spoke, observing her movements and the way her hair fell across the pillow. He nodded sagely as she voiced her concerns about Fell. It was all rather rattling.

Despite all this, Jazbel refused to end his evening on such a solemn note. Never missing the opportunity for a good jest, Jazbel gave a saucy grin.
"Come now, Ellarrah, it's not that ALL bad," he said as he hugged his pillow.
"If you hadn't started that fight and gotten me into trouble and try to mess with my goods, we wouldn't have landed ourselves with such a lovely room!" he teased, waving towards the furniture.
"Best in all of Connloath, I think.

Ellarrah just stared at Jazbel...
and stared and stared, green eyes looking sharp.
"Are you looking for a punch in the face?" She was in no mood for his jests. "And what do I bloody care about furniture?" She groaned and looked away, shaking her head before smashing her face into her pillow, giving off yet another groan.  "Maybe if I go to bed and wake up, this will all just magically go away."

Jazbel giggled at Ellarrah's sharp look, bracing himself for what was coming. When she did snap, he only threw his head back in mirth, laughing until his bones ached even more.
"And me with it?" he teased, enjoying this.
Jazbel sighed when he could laugh no more. He was exhausted.
"Good night, my dear," he said as he closed his eyes. "Perhaps the furniture will change to your liking in the morning."

Oh, wasn't he a piece of something! She was in no mood for his teasings and jests. Taking up her pillow, she sat up an smashed it across his face, then collapsed her face back into the bed.
"Good night, Jazzy." And she waved off the idea about furniture changing. Bah, if anythign she wanted to dream she'd have her damn heart back again.

"Omph!"
Jazbel laughed as Ellarrah chucked a pillow at his face.
"Good night," he said again as he, too, closed his eyes and fell asleep.
The man was up shortly after the dawn and quietly dressed and went down the steps as to not wake Ellarrah up. He found Ganin already there with a mug of tea in his hand with dark circles under his eyes.
"Good morning!" Jazbel said cheerily.
Ganin grumbled in reply. Jazbel tutted.
"Couldn't sleep?" Jazbel asked politely.
"I slept fine," Ganin snapped as he ate his cereal.
Jazbel nodded and quietly sat down at another table. The inn was still a mess from the night's party.

"Be ready to go in an hour," Ganin said.
"So soon?" replied Jazbel, surprised.
Ganin nodded with an expression Jazbel knew all too well.
We're running from something, Jazbel mused. But what?

Ellarrah groaned and eventually joined Jazbel at the table. She was rubbing at the sleep in her eyes as she griped, "Gods, bloody Angsar's balls is it early." she yawned and threw her head back, lazily looking around and catching the look on Ganin's face.
"What's up with him?" she asked as she leaned forward nearer to Jazzy. "And Gods, take a look at this place. You'd think pigs lived here." She shook her head at the mess and ordered herself a nice cup of ale for the morning.
"Thanks love," she said with a wink to the bar maid and went about to drowning most of her drink in a few hearty gulps. "Ah, nothing as good as ale in the morning."

"Ah! Good morning," Jazbel exclaimed as Ellarrah joined him at the table.  He was surprised she roused this early. He grinned. This made things easier.
"Furniture rearrangement," he replied cheerfully. Jazbel shook his head as Ellarrah ordered ale, yet again.
"You'll have a headache before the day is through," Jazbel said, before he placed his order for two bowls of oatmeal. It arrived quickly, fresh and hot from the pot. He blew on his food to cool it down.
"Anyway, we have to pack soon," he explained. "We're leaving within the hour."
Jazbel lowered his voice as he leaned over the table.
"Keep an eye out. We're on the run, though I don't know why,"  he muttered in a low voice before kissing her on the cheek.

Ganin watched the pair out of the corner of his eye and humped as his boy  emerged from their room. The boy's hair and clothes were still a mess as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes.

Ellarrah made a soured face, though it wasn't necessarily at the peck on the cheek.
"Angsar's balls," she grumbled, but kept her voice low. "Can't even get a moment's peace." Shaking her head, she took her portion of oatmeal and poured some ale on it and mixed it in before eating hers down in a rush.
"Whatever, suppose it doesn't matter. We have to get north anyways, so the sooner the better."

Jazbel watched in baffled amusement as Ellarrah added the ale to her food. He wanted to comment on it, but decided against the feat. Instead, he nodded at her statement. He ate his food more slowly. There wasn't any need for him to rush, it wasn't like they were leaving immediately. Jazbel watched out of the corner of his eye as the boy joined his father at the other table. As he finished up his food, Jazbel placed a coin on the table.
"A pity we can't pick up a pair of trousers for you here," he said with a teasing smile. "Perhaps the next city."

Jazbel rose to his feet, and patted his stomach. It felt excellent to be alive after a good night's rest and a hot meal for breakfast.
"I'm going to go pack," he announced before making his way towards the stairs.
It felt good, but also very, very sore.

Once in the room, Jazbel hummed to himself as he made sure everything was packed nice and neat in his sack. He attached the magic dagger to his belt and weighed the puzzle sphere in his hands before shoving it deep inside between his possessions. Finally, he tossed the bag over one shoulder and held onto his flute with another hand before heading out the door. Jazbel hoped the day would prove to be peaceful. He didn't fancy fighting for his life, again.

Ellarrah had remained back at the table, needing two more beers to pick her up. THen she was as peachy as she could be- or rather, doubly more irritable as she stalked back to the room with a bit of a ripe, drunken blush about her cheeks.

"So what's all this? You packing all it without me, Jazzy?" her tongue was a bit slurred, and she, having forgotten their alias for the moment, didn't give a damn. SHe was grumpy and normally her drinking would help. But for now, it only proved to make her more irritable.

"And what was that you were saying about my dress? Angsar's balls.. if we don't get me trousers soon you'll be wearing this thing before the day is through!" ANd she itched very unlady like at the ruffles, exposing a lot more of her leg than she ought to have as she gave a sigh.
"So what's the plan anyway?" she said, raking a hand through her unruly red hair, when it got stuck on a knot, she hissed out a curse between her teeth. "God damn hair!" Ugh, she needed a good brushing.

"Elle, I'm Rowan now! Rowan," he hissed as he grasped her shoulders. Jazbel threw his head back and let out a huff of air. Alcohol mixed with oatmeal reeked in her breath.
And it's still just morning, Jazbel thought as he gently grasped Ellarrah's hand.
"Don't ruin that dress," he protested. "We'll get you a pair of pants soon enough. And you need to sober up. Now."
Jazbel huffed as he looked at her hair. Yes it was a mess, but she wasn't going anywhere quickly. Jazbel sighed and placed down his sack.

"Sit down. I'll do it," he grumbled.
Consider it part of my husbandry duties, he wanted to add, but the man knew better to keep the check to himself. He didn't want to get slapped by a drunkard 'wife'.
"What am I going to do with you?" he muttered as he pulled out a brush.

"Rowan, Jazzy, big head, whatever," she grumbled, flicking back some of her hair as she dropped back down onto the bed. SHe stared at him as he produced a brush.
"So do you do hair for a living now too?" she asked him skeptically as she raised a single brow warily at the brush. "And you'd better be careful with that thing or I'll beat your head in." She, of all people, knew how badly knots could hurt. ANd she was already in a foul, foul mood.

OOC: lol oatmeal-ale breath- EWWWW

Jazbel smiled thinly at Ellarrah's drunkard fussing.
My lady's mood is as foul as her breath, he thought with a sigh. Normally, he would be able to brush it off, as it were, but this was bothering him. They needed their wits about them. Why was Ellarrah behaving this way?
"I'm a man of many talents, my dear. Now stay still," he smoothly insisted as he began to run the brush through her hair. Jazbel tried to be as gentle as possible, though there were many tangles.

I think I should braid it, he thought as he began to part the sea of red.
He frowned as he worked, his thoughts weighing heavy in his mind.
"Elle, why are you doing this now?" Jazbel asked as he managed to detangle a knot. He hoped he made it hurt less by holding the hair a little above it. 

"Doing what now? Are you talking about my mood? Cause you should know by now I'm not a morning person," she griped. "And hey, be careful with that hair." She grit her teeth as a few knots had been expelled, but it felt nice,a nd despite the knots he'd run into, the experience of having her hair brushed felt relaxing and helped cool her temper... at least a little.

"Even so," replied Jazbel, smiling sheepishly as she protested.
"Calm down. We don't want to blow our cover around Ganin. He seems alright enough, but I'm uneasy. You're not going to have an easy time in that cart, I'm telling you that now..."
Jazbel gently managed to get through most of the knots. When he was satisfied with his work, he nimbly braided her hair and tied it at the end with a leather cord.
"There," he said  with a hint of pride in his voice.
"Now, come. We have to go," Jazbel urged as he tossed red hair from his brush to the floor before shoving the thing in his bag.

Ellarrah gave a growl. "What are ya talking about? I'll travel just fine. Just get me another mug of ale and I ought to be as right as rain."

OOC: Sorry it's short but.... lol.

"I'm not paying for it," Jazbel warned.
He personally thought she had one too many, and heavens forbid any of her insides landed on his dress.
"Come on, Elle. And remember what I told you," he urged before swinging his bag over his shoulder and heading down the stairs. Vaan sat alone, munching thoughtfully at an apple.
"Where's your father?" Jazbel asked.
"In the stable with the chickens," the boy explained. "He asked me to wait for you."
Jazbel ruffled Vaan's hair.
"Good lad," he said. "Carry on."

"Need help?" Jazbel asked with a hint of uncertainty as he watched Ganin handled the chickens.
Pesky creatures, Jazbel thought as Vaan rushed to help his father.
"Yeah," said Ganin with a huff, jolting his chin towards a particularly brooding chicken in the corner.
"Ura."
"Ura," repeated Jazbel with a sigh. "Right."
He held out his arms towards the creature and smiled, feeling utterly ridiculous.
"Come on, girl. Come- OW!" The chicken pecked his nose.
Jazbel rubbed it sorely. Vaan laughed as he caught the creature, and stared at Jazbel curiously.
"Thought you said you ran a farm," he pointed.
"Soh?," challenged an injured Jazbel, rubbing his nose.

"Ugh, fine," Ellarrah grumbled. "But do ya hafta spoil all the fun? What's a little ale going to do? It's not like it will hurt me. If anything, it perks up my spirits, and I think they need to be doubly perked up by now!" she said, inadvertently squishing out her boobs as she spoke.
And then at the reminder she groaned.
"Fine, fine, we're a happily married couple, blah-de-blah, and all that it entails," though as she waved it off, she sighed and hooked arms around him as they exited, but they barely took a few steps out of the room as she gave his arm a pinch. "Though you owe me a honey moon." she teased, but then recalled.. "Hey.. what was my fake name supposed to be again?"

But as the pair headed down stairs, Ellarrah remained more aloof, merely staring skeptically at the child as if he were some sort of worm, and at the mention of chickens, Ellarrah only gave Jazbel a clever grin.
"Sounds like your department, darling." she said with a wink and nudge,then gave him one toying kiss to his cheek. THen she patted his rear as he went, but of course, hung around, just to see how the mighty Jazbel was to handle those pesky chickens.


Ellarrah had followed, watching with mild interest as she twirled a finger through a loose strange of her red hair that wasn't bound int he braid. She smirked as Jazbel entered into the caged area and tried to help, and couldn't help herself and had to cover her mouth from laughing too loud at their display.  Trying to remain aloof was difficult, but it sure was funny to play 'pretend we know what to do with chickens!'

Ah, perhaps this was shaping up to be a fine day after all!

"Bir.. .Beer... NO, Brira. It's Brira," Jazbel reminded Ellarrah as they walked down the stairs. He didn't reply at all to her other comments or gestures, but only grinned with a playful glint in his eye.

~

Of course, that spirit  was totally diminished by the injury. Jazbel only pouted more as Ellarrah  only laughed at his suffering.
"Come help," he urged as he made a bold move to swoop the creature up. Jazbel grunted as it struggled in his grip, but he managed to farry the hen over to the cart. The next few minutes were spent in this awkward fashion, carrying a bundle full of feathers and trying not think of where they've been. Finally, when the ordeal was over, Jazbel climbed back to his his place in the cart, and leaned back with a huff, the chickens clucking at each other by  his feet.  Jazbel groaned as he plucked feathers from his hair and clothes.
"You okay, mister?" Vaan asked.
"Yeah," said Jazbel with a sigh as the cart began to move. "I'm just feeling old."
Vaan nodded sagely, as if he shared the same troubles.

Ellarrah smirked, her smile like that of a kitten in the cream. The incident had definitely lifted her spirits, her green eyes sparkling with mirth, and her lips ready with a quirky remark.
"Nice feathers," she said, leaning forward to help pluck one that somehow got plastered into the stubble of his beard. She shook her head, pausing to admire his face before glancing away, her cheeks turning a little pink.

"So where we off to now?" she asked, folding her arms over her chest and staring down at the chickens. "We got to deliver these cluckers anywhere else?" she said, lightly tapping her boots against one of their cages, startling a pair of the hens as an explosion of white feathers blasted in her face. Coughing, she pulled a few feathers out of her mouth with a soured expression before giving a shake of her head, then peering over at Jazbel and Vaan.

Jazbel frowned. That was right. They were supposed to be doing something, weren't they?
"What about your Aunt?" Jazbel inquired. "Weren't you going to go visit her?"
Vaan's face fell, as he reclined into his seat.
"She wasn't home," he said, softly.
"She sometimes has a mind to travel, that woman," Ganin interrupted, gruffly. "None of your business, no how."
"My sincerest apologies," Jazbel replied as smooth as ever.
Ganin spat in the dirt.

"Besides," he said. "We're goin' to sell in the next village."
Jazbel nodded, and then said "yes' because he realized that Ganin couldn't see him.
He thoughtfully looked at the people that they  passed on the street, men wandering home from late night drinking and servants out to start a day of shopping or errands. Higgensball wasn't the most pleasant smelling place in the morning. Though the sewage systems were remarkably better here than in some in Serendipity, the streets still smelled vaguely of piss, a smell Jazbel was sure would only grow stronger during the day.
It's going to be a humid one, he thought, wishing he had some wine on him as they reached the city gates.

Ellarrah got comfortable for the long haul. She was still exhausted, and a little drunk already that morning, but the air was a bit too chilly for her own liking, and she hadn't expected it. Thankfully, she got to ride in the back of the cart with the chickens.. and Jazbel, who was nice and warm as she snuggled against his side.

"Why don't you be a dear and wake me when we get to the next town?" she said, patting his arm before sighing and nestling her head against his shoulder and cradling in to take advantage of his warmth. "And perhaps in the next town I can get myself some sort of cloak. Where did this chilly weather come from anyways? I thought we'd have a few weeks more before this sort of chill settled in."

"Okay," Jazbel agreed as Ellarrah leaned her head against his shoulder.
He gently patted the top of her head, idly removing stray feathers. He was careful not to undo his hard work with those curls. He smiled at her complaint about the weather.
"Connloath's weather is as fickle as her mood," he replied.
He was almost certain that Ganin had snorted in response, though inquired nothing further.

Jazbel sneezed. Ellarrah was right, the chill was coming in earlier than he had expected. Jazbel wanted to sleep as Ellarrah did, but instead he stayed up, even after the company embarked on their travels through the wood again. He took in the scent of the crisp autumn leaves. Eventually, Vaan fell asleep, too. It was just Ganin and Jazbel, now. Suddenly, Ganin spoke up.
"She ain't really your wife, is she?"
Jazbel narrowed his eyes, pretending to be offended. Ganin shook his head.

"Look, I know she ain't your wife. You're too well dressed not to have wedding bands, for one thing. An' you're piss poor at handling chickens, though you said you ran a farm. Not to mention you're twice her age."
Jazbel truly scowled at that.
"You're being rude," he boldly pointed out. "Many men take on wives younger than she. And I'm young enough too fufil my duties."
"No offense meant," Ganin replied, looking at Jazbel square in the eye.
"Except that you're a liar."

In the moment of silence that passed, an understanding seemed to go on between the two men.
"It is said a liar can't lie to a better liar," Jazbel finally said in amusement. "And I'm an expert."

It was at his last statement Ellarrah woke up to the murmuring of words. She hadn't caught the conversation, and gave a tired yawn as she peered up at Jazbel. "So we there yet?" she asked, staring up towards the hillsides from what she could see of them over the chicken crates. Though the hills had eyes, and were watching the wagon pull by. These were dangerous times, and men could making a killing for bringing in people like Ganin and Vaan... though they kept to the shadows, kept moving, kept watching, waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike.

"Gods.. are we able to stop this cart soon?" Ellarrah asked. "I have to piss like you wouldn't believe. How's a five minute break, eh?"
Ganin looked towards Jazbel, and gestured back to Ellarrah with a nod.
"Five minutes is all." And he stopped the cart and got out himself, stretching out his legs, but placed a hand upon Jazbel's shoulder.

"Hey.. don't go following her.." he said, his eyes going out to the hillside while Ellarrah was already bounding off behind a tree, relieving herself rather loudly as she moaned. Ganin's eyes narrowed to a grouping of trees at the crest of a hill. "Are you armed?" he asked Jazbel, tightening his grip. "Because I think we're being followed."

Though Ellarrah was the first one to realize this, for as she was fixign up her skirts and stepping out from behind the tree, a man stepped out of no where with a blade pointed at her throat.
"Breath one word and I'll cut your throat out," he warned, then raised a piece of metal on his wrist that reflected off the sun, and signaled twice to the other men. Then his eyes went back to Ellarrah, taking her in with a mild grin. "Say now... keep yourself quiet now and I might let you go with more than your life. How's about you lifting up those skirts?" he said, gesturing crudely with his knife.

Ellarrah sneered. Knife or no knife, NOBODY talked to her like that, and before the man knew it, she slugged him across the face.
"I don't think so, pervert!" and as the man went down, she whirled around, gasping as she watched a grouping of men tear off from the hillside, heading directly towards the wagon- weapons in hand.

Jazbel arched his brow at Ganin's warning, and nodded slightly as he told him of their watchers. Yes, Jazbel had a feeling that they were around, too. His fingernails dug into the palms of his hands. He wanted to call out for Ellarrah, to drag her away, but he had to trust her instinct.
"What about you?" he whispered to Ganin. "Are you armed?"
To his surprise, Ganin replied, "Plenty."

A moment later, Jazbel heard Ellarrah shout and a group of men were heading towards the wagon. Jazbel stood his ground. He was NOT going to leave Ellarrah alone here!
"Dad?" Vaan asked. Jazbel realized he sounded more uncertain than afraid.
"Yeah, son," Ganin replied, gruffly. "Go ahead."
Suddenly, a flash of light and heat erupted as a fire ball landed in the ground by one of the men, scorching the forest floor. Jazbel froze as he turned to face a frightened, but determined, Vaan.

Ellarrah came suddenly running from behind the bushes.
"Men! Coming our wa-" And then suddenly there was a mass of flames errupting, scorchig all fo the men around her. Ellarrah let out a yelp, a few fly by sparks catching to her clothes and hair. Panicked, she began to pat herself down, hopping around and flailing like a maniac before she rushed over to the cart.
"Your son is a mage!?" is all she could say, before she heard another cry, and another set of men came tearing towards them from the other direction.
"Angsar's balls!" Ellarrah spat and yanked out a dagger from her boot. "Looks like the men got back up!" Her other hand rested against the hilt of her sword, which.. she suddenly realized was inside the wagon.
"Jazzy!" she cried. "My sword! Ugh, find me it! quick!"

OOC :  I have the urge of making him say something ridiculous like "Yes, my leige!" but as it is-

IC:


Jazbel paled, but this was no time for an interrogation.  Besides, Jazbel held no prejudice against mages and he had suspected this outcome.He had not expected fire, but he was in no position to complain.
"Do that thing more!" Jazbel encouraged Vaan as he turned to see that new men were coming, very angry ones. He reached for his magical dagger, though felt silly.
"Yes!" he replied as Ellarrah ordered him to fetch her sword. He bent to pick the heavy thing and nimbly jumped jumped out of the wagon, stumbling forward to hand it to her.
"Behind you, dear," he curtly warned as two  became dangerously close.
The 'dear' was out of habit from the disguise. Though all fronts were now dropped, it was a force of habbit.

Fetching up the blade, she unsheathed it in one swift motion that worked as a blur across the air, cutting a man across the arm and chest as he rushed near to them, blood splattering out from his wound. Though he wasn't down, Ellarrah grunted as she found herself needing to swing her sword swiftly again to counter, locking her sword to the man's as she growled at him.

"Hey, kid! Use that fire on this man's ass!" Ellarrah shouted, trying to push the swordman back, but boy was he ever big, and had quite a strong grip on him as Ellarrah felt her strength waning as the man pushed forward, and just as her arms began to go limp under the strain and protest of their blade's locking, the fire she needed came, roaring up behind hte man and toasting him nicely upon the ass. 

Turning to Vaan, she grinned brightly.
"Thanks, kid!" And turned back around, eyes upon the men ever approaching.

"Looks like we could use more of that magic!" but she didn't have to say it twice as the kid helped out, throwing more flames at the men who were fast approaching, all the while Ellarrah rushed forward to be in the front of their lines, parrying with another sword wielder who dared to aim his sword at her head.

Once that man was downed, she brushed her unruly red hair out of her face and turned back to Jazbel. "Gods, I'm going to need a good drink after all of this is said and done." But she spoke a moment too soon, for a break was a long time coming, as she rolled her eyes as another sword wielding man was rushing her way, or rather, Jazzy's, and as he raise dhis sword up, Ellarrah gasped, "JAZZY! SWORD!" but she didn't have a chance to get to him before the sword weilder was upon him,a nd all Ellarrah could think to do was rush their way, hoping Jazbel could fend him off quick enough so she could help.

Jazbel fought  by Ellarrah's side, though ducked out of the way as Vaan blasted several of the men. The musician spy was in awe. He hadn't imagined that the boy was this powerful.
he gritted his teeth as he fought dagger to dagger with a bandit, a scrawny thing like him. However, Jazbel had more experience and was more agile than the man expected him to be, and found himself unwinded, passed out on the ground.

Jazbel chuckled at Ellarrah's comment, unaware of the other man's presence until her shout. It was too late to do anything. All Jazbel for a moment could see was a blinding light and then-

There was a horrible noise as the sword ran right through Jazbel's chest, the pointed end sticking out by his spine. Jazbel gagged as he stared dumbfounded at the swordsman, who was equally looking quizzically at the man. The bandit paled as he pulled the sword back. Jazbel fell to the ground, clutching his chest.
"Ow," Jazbel exclaimed indignantly, tears welding up in his eyes.

For a moment, it seemed that all was still. Jazbel felt his body grow hot and cold and hot again. As the shock rolled off, Jazbel realized that Vaan was screaming and half the bandits were confused, his own attacker backing away. Jazbel grimaced as he tried to rise to his feet.
"Kindly take your men and leave. Now," he rasped, his eyes unflinchingly leering into those of his startled would-be murderer.

"Jazzy!" Ellarrah screamed in horror, her eyes going wide as her mouth fell open in shock. It seemed in that moment the world had ended, he heart beat pumping out into the world around her, and drumming heavily inside her ears..
except the only problem was there was none.
There was no heart.
And the beat was the racing of her own mind, the few split seconds it took her to drop to his side, tears welling up within her eyes.
"J-jazzbel!?" and then she blinked, recalling their curse, and her eyes widened even more.

"There's no blood.." the would be assassin spat, stumbling away, his eyes wide as if he had seen a ghost. "HE DOES NOT BLEED!" and the rest of the bandits all halted, looking their way. "He.. he's a demon! Run for it! A demon! A heartless mage!"

And that was all it seemed to take, the bandits abandoning their prey as they took off into the woods, disappearing within minutes.  Ellarrah still wasn't sure how to make all of this, her lips trembling, words choking in the back of her throat before she threw her arms around Jazbel and held him tight.

"Gods, Jazzy!"s he said, smacking him suddenly as she pulled away and laughing once between her tears. "I thought I told you there was a sword!"

Jazbel watched as the bandits ran off, the noise dimming in his ears. His vision was starting to dim.
It's not night time, he numbly thought.
As Ellarrah threw her arms around him, Jazbel collapsed into her arms, his head spinning and his body shaking.
The man loosely grinned, as if intoxicated, and the smack only made his loopy smile wider.

"Did you hear that Elle? They called me a demon. Jazbel the demon has a nice ring to it," he croaked before fainting.

Meanwhile, Ganin pulled Vaan into his arms tight as he watched in bafflement as the bandits ran away. He cautiously approached the two, his knuckles white as he grasped the sword he carried, pried from the body of one of the dead men.
"Papa!" Vaan exclaimed, but Ganin held up a hand.
"Stay where you are!" he ordered.
Vaan watched from afar in fascination.
"Jazzy?" Ganin gruffly repeated, his voice tense.
"Just who are you two?"

"I could ask you the same question," Ellarrah snapped, venom in her eyes, but it was still a lot softer than her expression could have been. Even with the curse.. it was still frightful to think..
She could have just lost Jazbel. And it made her eyes water up.
"You.. you two have a marked mage," she pointed out, defensively, and hoping to God her voice didn't sound as croaky and high pitched with the threats of tears as it did. But she blinked back those tears and better composed herself. "I think you two need to explain yourselves as well."
And she was not about to go first if she could help it.

Rage and a wounded pride sparked in Ganin's eye at the accusation. Vaan slunk back into the cart, as if ashamed.
"And what of it?!," Ganin challenged in a dangerously low voice. "He's my boy. My son. He doesn't deserve to be treated like less of a person. I'm getting him out of here, and that's all you need to know."

Ellarrah made a face, but.. it slowly softened as she peered down at Jazzy. Oh. right. The sword.
She released a held breath.  and stood up to yank it out of his body, before tossing it aside and kneeling beside him again. He looked towards the pair, then down at Jazbel.

"Well, I'm sure there are other kingdoms that will accept you," Ellarrah said, though she wasn't a woman who was very good at giving words of comfort, so it came out rather rough.
"We're heading north.. looking for a cure."

OOC: Wait, he does still have the sword in him? If not, ignore that part and i'll erase it later XD

D: I gotta go back now for the weekend

XD

OOC: yeah, the sword's gone :P D'aw see ya!

IC:

Jazbel weakly groaned as, right before their eyes, his muscles, tissue, and skin began to magically knit together. His body tensed during the process, but once there was not even a scar, he relaxed into Ellarrah's arm's once more, unconscious and unaware. Ganin watched in numb silence.
"Papa?" Vaan joined the trio, startling his father.
"I told you to stay by the cart!" Ganin exclaimed.
"Cool," Vaan breathed as he looked at Jazbel, his eyes sparkling with wonder.
Ganin tugged the boy's ear.
"The man could have died," Ganin reminded his son. "If they're even human..."
He narrowed his eyes as he glared at Ellarrah.

"Where you two are going is none of my business. You're  in dangerous affairs, that's clear. But what are your names?" he demanded.

Ellarrah glared challengingly back.
"Humans. Pah! Of course," Ellarrah sneered. "Hey, this sort of thing is only temporary and we're new to it, alright?" And at his inquiry of their real names, she hesitated. "What good will our names be to you?" She asked, her nose still wrinkled in disgust.

OOC: Yup, going to Cleveland this weekend to visit a friend :3

Ganin scowled. For a minute, it looked as if he was about to explode, or even leave. Vaan looked up at his father, anxiously. Ganin peered down at his son and sighed. He wrapped an arm around the boy.
"Lady," he said with as much control as he could muster.
"If I'm to ship you two out of Connloath, the least you can do is tell me your names."

OOC: Oh! sound great! have fun :D

Ellarrah, as stubborn as she was, caved at the expression on the son's face, rather than the father's (though perhaps a little bit of Ganin's defeatist demeanor helped to push it.) Sighing, she shook her head.
"I'm Ellarrah Shok, and the gangly old man down here who took the sword's name is Jazbel Oraca." She tightened her lips, frowning some.

"So I take it you all are in a bit of trouble, too, eh?" and she shrugged. "And north seems a good place to go as any."

Ganin grimly nodded, finding her answer acceptable.
"Okay," he said, as if to himself. "Alright..."
With a deep breath he squatted next to Ellarrah and gently picked up Jazbel, as if the unconscious man were as light as a feather. He instructed his son to go to the wagon to help lay Jazbel down without hitting his head. He wordlessly gestured for Ellarrah to get up in the back before going to the front of the cart. Soon enough, they were on the road.

~

Jazbel moaned as he stirred, crying out as he clutched his chest. It felt as if there was a weight on it, a heavy burden. He opened his eyes to find a hen thoughtfully staring down at him. He wrinkled his nose and closed his eyes again.
"There are chickens in heaven?" he moaned.

OOC: Ya know, I dunno if Ganin is pulling them or they have a horse. I mean, maybe the cart is magicked to be lighter than normal? Dunno xD

OOC: Maybe they had a mule or something? Or Ganin has super powers so he can carrying carts? lol
I can imagine Ellarrah and Jazbel making it uncomfortably heavy lol

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

It had been some time since they had gotten back onto the road, and Ellarrah was nearly sick with worry and fear. Her eyes would dart out from time to time from the road, before she'd glance back down at Jazzy, then tot he road once more. She was deep in thought when he had awoken, so upon catching his groan and a word, she  gasped and turned to him.
"Jazzy!"s he shouted in elation, as if unable to believe it. But then once she realized what he said, she smacked him hard upon the shoulder.
"Heaven, as if. You'd think you'd be lucky enough to go there, Oraca?" she chided and gave a shake of her head, but sighed still, studying his face. "But I'm just glad you're alright, Jazz. You had me worried sick! I thought you had died!"
And the chicken, who had been studying him, grew frightened at Ellarrah's sudden outburst, so she had backed away, and now that things appeared calmer, the chicken clucked and took a few more steps closer, and perched herself at Jazbel's side again and peered up into his face before giving another few curious clucks.

At the shoulder slap, Jazbel groaned loudly.
"Easy, love," he said as he tried to sit up, rubbing his head.  He never had a migraine this bad before. Jazbel opted for lying back down, a lazy grin spreading on his face at Ellarrah's fussing.
You're adorable, he thought.
"You underestimate me, lass," Jazbel said, fondly patting her hand.
"I can talk and sing my way through most doors; Heaven wouldn't be that hard for a man of my talents."

"Glad to see you among the living, Mr. Jazbel," Ganin said from his side of the cart.
"Thank-"
Jazbel almost finished his sentence when he realized with Ganin had said. Jazbel blanched, his eyes widening as he looked up at an awe-filled Vaan.
"You okay, mister?" he said.
"Y-yeah," Jazbel choked.
So they found out.
Jazbel rubbed his temple, trying to think. Ellarrah and him were on the cart, still, and weren't bounded, so he can only assume that Ganin took them under his wing, again.  As if to read his thoughts, Ganin spoke again.
"The next time you pull that trick, ya better not do it in front of my boy!" Ganin scowled.
Jazbel winced.
"I'll desperately try not to," he responded weakly. He turned his head towards Ellarrah and raised his thin brows.

"What are you looking at me for? As if I had a choice. You're the one who had a sword rammed through you, Jazzy," Ellarrah chided with a shake of her head and sighed. But she smiled none the less. And at Ganin's words, Ellarrah gave a sweet (but more salty) forced smile to the man before looking down at the chicken. She waved her hand to shoo the thing away before sighing and taking a seat beside Jazbel.
"We're still heading north,"s he informed him after a time, her eyes on the vanishing road before them as the cart continued to bounce along the uneven road.

Jazbel shifted uncomfortably at Ellarrah's words. She was right, of course. He couldn't deny that. At least, though, they were still heading north. It was a shame, Jazbel noted as he suspiciously eyed the nearby chickens who were growing too curious, that Ganin's trust in them was probably lost some. It might mean trouble further down the road. Jazbel took care to remember this.
"So we are," he muttered.

Vaan leaned over his seat, beaming at the man.
"How'd you get cursed?" he breathed.
"VAAN!" Ganin roared, but Jazbel shrugged as he looked up at the youth.
"It's only temporary," he explained in his attempt to keep the story as vague as possible.
"A contract of sorts."
"And why's that?" asked the eager child.
"To make sure I keep my promise."
"What promise?"
Jazbel pondered how to frame his answer. He tilted his head towards Ellarrah.
"A rescue," he dramatically replied, which Vaan giggled at.

Vaan was about to ask another question, but Jazbel interrupted with a sharp grunt as the cart went over yet another bump.
"This cart will surely be the end of me," he darkly grumbled as he tried to sit up, again. Jazbel fumbled for his water skin. Dying was thirty work.
"how long until the next city?" he asked.

"Fask'arr," Vaan said, staring up at the road before them. "Fask'arr is next. It's only a day from our destination." Then he paused, remaining quiet a moment before adding, "About two days."

"Angsar's balls," Ellarrah grumbled beneath her breath. "Two days, are you fucking kidding me?" She groaned. "Well, I guess there's no sense in any of us complaining. Two days is better than two more, eh?" She tried to be positive. "But say, you don't happen to have any ale on you, Vaan? I'm thirsty as a horse in the desert."

Vaan smirked, took up a bottle inside a sack near him and handed it over. Ellarrah let out a squeal of delight.
"Thank you~" she said sing songedly, as she uncorked the thing and turned to Jazzy. "Now we're talking. These two days we'll seem like a breeze now, eh?" And he tossed her head back, taking down a long swig before handing the bottle over to him. "Here, it'll help with that soured look you're giving me." she added with a glowing eyed smirk.

Jazbel chuckled in amusement at the lad's confident air.
"And to think you the timid, mild type," he said as he sat up, this time more carefully.
"Not if you drink us dry," Jazbel retorted as he gladly accepted the bottle.  He grunted as he took a swingful. He liked to think that it helped with his pounding headache.

There were no songs that night, not from Jazbel. Vaan tried to coax a ballad out of him, but the man only had the energy to softly recite pieces from an epic poem. The story was of an ancient and doomed Essyrini Prince, and his deadly courtisan.
"only the action bits," Vaan requested. So Jazbel faithfully recited the prince's treasure hunts and the impossible feats performed by his nameless servant, and the ultimate betrayal. Jazbel was half asleep, but his low voice had a steady rhythm. Now and then he would abruptly gesture the thrust of a knife stabbing through the air, or wave his hands at the mention of djinns.

Vaan hung onto every word.
"Was that really true?" he asked in an excited whisper.
Ganin was more skeptical.
"Just a story, lad," he replied.
"No it's not," Jazbel indignantly retorted. "Least not all of it."
Of course, the original author was a nut and had added his own dramatic flair to the piece. In truth, the story sort of made Jazbel feel uncomfortable- the ending felt unfinished, which bothered him.

"Elle, it's your turn," he suddenly said with a smirk.  "You tell one. I'm sure you have plenty." 

Ellarrah had been gluttonous on the bottle, staring over dreamily at Jazbel as he recited his tail. Her eyes were sparkling now, her cheeks possessing a rosy glow, but when he prompted a story out of her she sat up suddenly from where she had been nestled nearby.

"Eh?" She hiccuped, then shook her head. "Hey, I didn't sign up for story time. Just pass over me. I ain't got nothing interesting to tell." she spoke with a wave of her hand.

"I'm not buying that," Jazbel retorted as he reached for the bottle and handed it over towards Vaan. The boy observed Ellarrah curiously in the way boys often did.
"Oi, lad," Jazbel said, distracting the sheepish child. He trusted the bottle into the kid's arms.
"Make sure she doesn't get any more of that," he instructed.
"It ain't right or lady like, drinking like that with a child around," Ganin criticized.

Jazbel scowled. On one hand, they weren't in a position to further anger their hosts, but on the other, Ganin's comment was still very rude. He sat up straighter where he was and  coldly glanced at Ganin.
"It's been a rough journey," he said before sinking back down into the cart. A hen pecked at  his trousers, and Jazbel kicked it off.
"Aren't these things supposed to be in cages?!" he asked.
Just then, he felt a drop of water hit his nose.

Jazbel frowned. The air was humid, and the skies gray.
"Great," he muttered. More rain was just what they needed.

"Angsar's balls it ain't appropriate. My dad and ma use to do it all the time," she waved it off dismissively, only letting it sour her for a moment before she too, felt the droplets of rain, though hte first splat of cool drops landed on her breasts. Blinking,s he looked up at the skies.
"Looks like rain..." she commented, seeming to sober in that moment.
She didn't like to think too much about her parents, but what much was there to say on them? She had been an ignorant child, very ignorant on many things, and now, being much older, she was too prideful to tell herself she had been foolish in far too many of her life's choices. Either way, a nice drink normally sated her, but now she sighed hotly nad nestled back into the cart, idly kicking hte side wiht her boots.

"Say, why don't you tell us a story, Ganin," she said, leaning his way and batting her long, lovely lashes at him.

"No cages," Ganin said so firmly it was almost amusing.
Despite the rain, the man continued to pull the cart through the mud, which seemed to not hinder him by much. Jazbel was impressed, and was starting to dawn on the possibility that perhaps Ganin had magic, too.

Ganin hesitated before answering Ellarrah's request. Instead of rejecting it, however, Jazbel was surprised to find that Ganin caved in.
"Tell the one about the bear knight," Vaan suggested eagerly from his seat as he pulled a blanket over his head. Ganin pulled his  cloak's hood over his head before he began to speak.

The cursed knight was a Connloath legend of a chivalrous knight whose lady was so sick  with a stranger disease that no medicine could help her. Desperate, he sought after magical remedies, and was turned into a bear while his lady laid frozen in time as consequence. The bear knight, shamed, left the kingdom and befriended a pair of twins, a young man and a young woman who lived with their mother in the mountains. The twins took care of the bear knight , who returned the favor by saving their life in an avalanche. His good deed almost cost him his life, but the love and grace of the twins rescued him. The knight turned back into a man. He married the sister and made a squire of the brother. His lady was rescued, too; the twin's mother was a physician of the highest talents and cured the woman of her ailment.

As a story teller, Jazbel was quick to note, Ganin had a low and steady voice. He didn't quite have a flair for drama the story called for,, but Jazbel none the less felt himself be moved by Ganin's words.  He glanced over at Vaan. The boy had fallen asleep.
"Shouldn't we stop?" Jazbel suggested, but Ganin shook his head.
"Not if we want to lose those bandits," Ganin explained, glaring at the man with piercing eyes.

Vaan wasn't the only one asleep. Ellarrah was too. Well, almost.
She had almost been lulled into a contented snooze when Jazbel's voice awoken her from her daze. Having only caught half the story, she stretched against Jazbel's side before nestling in against his arm.

"Do you think those bandits would really be foolish enough to keep following us? The kid has magic and it seemed to scare the living daylights out of them. If they were smart, they won't be coming back."

"You're probably right," Jazbel muttered  in a low voice.  He couldn't really sit up to observe Ganin, since Ellarrah was in his arms, but the cart was low enough and Ganin tall enough where Jazbel could make out the back of the man's hooded head. Jazbel fumbled with his  own cloak, wondering if the heartless still caught head  olds. He smiled  as he gently tugged a strand of Ellarrah's hair.
"But I think he'd feel safer if we were out of these woods. I would, too."
He glanced at the chickens. At least they were asleep.

"Aye, I'd have to agree," Ellarrah said. "What I wouldn't give for a beer or two right now. A fresh, bubbly mug with my name on it. Cool and refreshing and fresh. Not one of those types of ales that have gone old and lost their fizz." She made a face, then sighed, staring up at the sky.
"Do ya think there's a town nearby?" Though she had a feeling a town was still miles away.

Jazbel shifted his gaze to the night sky as well. The clouds that blocked the moon were outlined by its hazy light, and he watched as they slowly shifted between the trees.
"I don't know," Jazbel replied.
"Oi," he said, lifting his voice so that Ganin could hear, but low enough so that Vaan wouldn't stir.
"Yeah?" Ganin grunted in reply.
"When do you suppose the next town will be?" Jazbel asked.

Ganin paused as he calculated an answer, his feet shuffling on the ground.
"Noon hopefully. Maybe sooner," he carefully responded.
"Noon it is, then," Jazbel said when he thought of something. "Don't you ever grow tired of pulling this  old cart? It's hard work."
Ganin grunted at the obvious statement.
"What do you think I am? Some tireless horse? I'll stop soon,"  Ganin said, almost mournfully.
Jazbel nodded, though Ganin couldn't see him. That was alright, then. Still, that meant a night on the back of an uncomfortable cart with chickens.
Better than the alternative, Jazbel thought darkly.

"Think you can handle a night without beer?" he teased as he nudged Ellarrah in the shoulder.

Ellarrah made a face at Jazbel's teasing and made a brushing motion with her hand as if to sweep the idea away.

"I think I'll survive," she hissed in a whisper. "But I don't know if I like the idea we'll be sleeping with chickens." And she made a face and shivered against Jazbel.
"And I think the temperature's dropped. Figures. Damn fickle, Connlaothian weather."
Then she thought it over, "Though perhaps if we stop, we ought to sleep out on the grass and let the others have a chance to snuggle with their birds?" the words were only half teasing. She was pretty sure Ganin could use a good rest. And who knows, maybe some ale?
Sweet, sweet ale..
what she wouldn't give for some more of that stuff right about now!

While Ellarrah was fantasizing about ale, Jazbel was focusing on falling asleep. It was, he mused, a perk about growing older- he found it even more easier to sleep just about anywhere and instantly.  So while Elle suggested that Ganin sleep with the chickens instead of them, Jazbel already passed out, and began to snore.

---
Jazbel woke up at the crack of dawn. He pulled the feathers out of his hair and stretched. He stared blankly at the sky, his vision still dull from sleep.
A clear day, he thought. That was good. More rain would have been troublesome. He turned to look at the front of the cart. Ganin had evidently stopped the cart some time in the night, for  he had pulled it under the shade of a tree  and was currently fast asleep sitting by his son. Jazbel sat there for a little while, staring at nothing in particular for a while, before having the overwhelming urge to piss.

He climbed out of the cart while trying not to make much noise.  After doing his business in the bushes, he decided to go off and look for some water and maybe some food. His stomach growled in agreement. Jazbel pulled his cloak over his shoulders tighter as he set off to look for a stream. The grass was soft and cold under his boots.  The morning chill accompanied by the morning dew made Jazbel feel cold, wet, and in much need for a cup  of tea.  He walked and hummed for a while, enjoying the peace and the chance to stretch his legs. Now and then, he stopped at the snap of a twig, but then continued on his way, certain it was just squirrels and rabbits. Still, a hand was placed firmly on the hilt of his knife.

He walked for a while uphill, no stream in sight.
Maybe I should just go back, he thought, but smoke rising in the distance convinced him otherwise. He jogged towards the top of the hill to find a farm on the outskirts of a village. Jazbel grinned broadly.
That solves our little ale and clothes problem.

Her fingers snapped out, pinching his arm sharply.
"Jazzy!" she hissed, huffing away as her cheeks were pink from jogging in order to catch up with him. "What the bloody cock-sacks do you think you're doing? You trying to dump me off on those chicken herders or something?" she accused, jabbing a sharp finger into his gut. "I know you didn't have a choice for dealing with me as your partner in all of this, but Angsar's ball sacks, Jazzy, at least tell me if you're going to just up and leave. I never had a traveling companion before and never I probably never would have had I not stolen that item from you. Is that it? Are you still pissed over that? Look, I wouldn't have been offended if you just wanted to upa nd drop me, but could you at least wait until after we're cured from this bloody curse?"

Yep, she was pissed- and assumed the worst. Not because of what she knew of Jazbel, but from what she knew of men. And she knew it better than most- it was always best to work alone...
but really, what the heck was he doing all the way out here!? They were no where near the cart!
Also, she was irritable from a major withdraw from her booze,a nd she was never pretty without them.

Jazbel smiled and was going to greet Ellarrah as she approached him, surprised that she even caught up to him. However, instead of a 'good morning' he was greeted by a sharp pinch. Jazbel hissed as he rubbed his arm, a little taken aback by Elllarah's scolding.
Abandon her? Jazbel marveled. He had to chuckle at that notion, even though he did find it a bit sad.
"What's all this, now?" he asked. "All I did was gone and do my business, followed by a  stroll. I wanted to find water, but found a farm instead."

He tugged a strand of Ellarrah's hair.
"You've gone and got it messy again," he tutted before kissing her on the cheek.
"Can't you say good morning properly, lass? Least you can do is say 'good morning' before going about and accusing poor souls of being dishonorable! Anyway, let's go back and tell Ganin the good news. If we found a farm, a town or village musn't be too far away, I reckon. Shall we?"
With that, Jazbel gestured for the woman to follow him back the road they came.

Ellarrah planted her hands on her hips and was about to chew him out some more, when a hot sigh came from her lips.
"A town you say?" Her eyes lit up at the idea. A town meant booze, and a means to cure her from this soured mood. She hooked arms with Jazzy, even feeling good enough to ignore his little kiss to her cheek as she grinned from ear to ear. "This is good news, Jazz. Come on then, let's be off to inform the others."
And as they were wondering back, she muttered out an apology, though it was half assed, since she washoping to save face- nad a drinking buddy.
"And sorry about my accusations, Jazz, but I'm irritable, hungry, and thirsting for some ale. I haven't had a good picther of ale in days!"

Jazbel shrugged.
"Same here, lass," he said, patting his aching belly.
"We could all do  with some hot food."
The stroll back was pleasant enough. Their pace and  the rising of the sun warmed Jazbel's bones. Now awake and feeling fresh, he waved a cheery good morning to Ganin and Vaan before telling them the good news. Vaan, who was still rubbing the sleep from his eyes, seemed more alert and Ganin cracked a weak smile.
"Alright, then," Ganin replied.
He gestured for Jazbel and Ellarrah to hop into the cart, but Jazbel shook his head.

"No, thank you, sir," Jazbel said. "I'm rested as it is."
And I've enough of chickens, he wanted to add.
Ganin frowned as he eyed the hole in Jazbel's shirt, where the sword had run him through.
"Is that so?" he muttered. "Well, alright then."
Jazbel tugged at a frayed tread with a frown.  He needed to fix that at some point, that was true.
"Elle, will you be riding, still?" he asked.

"Hell no," came her hasty reply. "Let's just be off then. I'm starving and my legs have been itching to be used all night. The cart was nice for a while, but I think I'm starting to get stiff from it." she said, cracking her back as they walked.

Jazbel chuckled.
"Well, alright, then," he said, walking idly by Ganin's side. Jazbel tried to strick up a conversation, but as Ganin wasn't much of a conversationalist, he turned to the boy, instead. Vaan was curious about other kingdoms, so Jazbel talked and talked about Serendipity and patiently answered questions until they passed the farm. At talk of mages and magical items, Ganin gave Jazbel a stern glance, but said nothing. Jazbel grew a little careless.
"I'm sure they would love if y-" he started to say, but Ganin interrupted.
"Don't finish that sentence," he growled.
"Papa!" Vaan protested.

"There's no one around," Jazbel said, his voice lowered.
"There's always someone around," Ganin growled.
"Ehh," Jazbel started to say. He was a spy, after all; he knew when to be careful and when to speak freely. He was certain they were fairly safe, but decided not to argue with the boy's father. So Jazbel shrugged.
"We're close," he needlessly pointed out, waving towards a sign that proclaimed the nearest town was a mile away.

Ellarrah pinched Jazbel's arm.
"You might have the child starry eyed, but Ganin's right. There might be spies in the woods," she hissed. "What if they see him use his powers?" Besides, not to mention she was terrified of mages. "Besides, if he wanted to use his magic freely, just keeping planting those ideas inside his head." She poke dhis chest, hard. "Next thing you'll know, he'll be running off to Serendipity."
Then after a moment, she considered it. "Though it would probably be better for something like him," she muttered.

Man, did she need ale now more than ever, and she felt herself growing all the more irritable as they crawled their way towards town.

"Hey!"
Jazbel scowlded as Ellarrah pinched his arm.
"There might be spies," he agreed, "but unless they have super hearing, they wouldn't have heard me. We're alone."
He chuckled as he rubbed his chest where Ellarrah jabbed him.
"Perhaps," he agreed when a thought occurred to him.
Though if that's the case, why didn't Ganin just take the lad there, already?
The borders couldn't be that hard to cross.

OOC: I feel so bad for Jazzy XD
Ellarrah is such a sour puss right now and keeps hurting him XD

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

Ellarrah rolled her eyes.
"Being alone should sound romantic, but this situation makes my skin crawl. I'm so antsy, Jazzy. I just can't wait to we get to the damn Fell and be done with this. Not being able to bleed just ain't natural. It feels as if we're living in some sort of a dream world. And ugh.."s he rubbed at her temple. "And I feel as if I have a hang over and i haven't even had a spot of ale all day!"

OCC: He's a big boy, he can' handle it XD
IC:

Jazbel nudged Ellarrah on the arm.
"You rely on drink too much," he scolded before taking in a deep breath. He wasn't going to let his companion's sour mood have an effect on him!
"Come, the air here is fresh and clean. It's a naturally beautiful day, don't you think? What do you think, Ganin?"

The burly man had not expected the attention. He looked up at the sky in a thoughtful manner before nervously looking over his shoulder back at the forest.
"As good as a day as it can get, I suppose," he replied.
"That's the spirit," Jazbel encouraged.

OOC: lol, Poor Jazzy XD
SUCH AN OPTIMISTIC CREW
----

"I don't rely on drink enough," she pouted. "Besides, no harm ever came from getting a bit tipsy. It's the bubbles,I think,t hat does well for the skin. It's why I can remain so youthful. Maybe you ought to drink some more yourself," she teased, poking at his belly. "Then you'd understand."

"Oh really?" Jazbel asked, stroking his goatee.
"That's pretty interesting, because I've never heard of such a fascinating notion until just now!"
He stretched out his arms, enjoying the sun.
"I'm sure the ladies of Serendipity's royal court would love that bit of wisdom," Jazbel teased.

Ellarrah punched his arm.
"And I have plenty more wisdom than that!" She said with a wink. "But next town, I'm buying drinks!" Never mind how'd she'd get the money!

Ooc: short post before work!

"Oh, do you?" Jazbel asked, rubbing his now sore arm.  Really, was that necessary?  However, the prospect of a free drink cheered him up some.
"I'll hold you to it," Jazbel promised. "That includes Ganin and the lad, too!"
"Vaan gets cider," Ganin insisted.
The boy pouted.

"But papa," the boy whined, but Ganin's decision was firm.
"A hot cuppa cider isn't such a bad  idea," Jazbel said to cheer up the boy. The idea was appealing, now that it was brought up. Connloath was famous for such things, so why shouldn't they take part of it?

Before long, they arrived at the outskirts of a town bustling full of energy. However, at the gate, they found themselves at the end of a small line of merchants and peasants.
"What's that?" Vaan asked.
"Town guard," Jazbel responded in a low voice. "Checks for stolen goods, magic, or worse, if you can imagine."
"I can't," Ganin grumbled. "If this wasn't the only town in miles.."
"We can make it," Jazbel encouraged, though he wasn't quite sure, himself.

Ellarrah was growing antsy.
"Do we really have to wait in this big, long line?" she whined. Shaking her head, she threw herself into the haystack beside the chickens int he crates,w ho fluttered and clucked in protest from the girls sudden action. She made a soured face at them and waved at the feathers falling around her face.
"Damn feathered beasts,"s he growled. Sighing,s he peered up at the sky, and kicked her leg some before turning around to peer at Ganin.
"So the guard has to check in through all of us? What if he thinks the chickens are stolen or something?"
Though, the real problem would be if anyone recognized that they had a mage present..
and well, that the two 'stow aways' were cursed.

Jazbel shook his head. He should have expected this to happen, what with recent activity. Jazbel leaned against the side of the cart, observing the soldiers. Their inspections of the richer were long,  though high status and an exchange of coins that did not escape Jazbel's eyes seemed to make the process go faster for some. The guards were definitely rougher and longer with their inspections of the poor, especially those with with the symbol of mages on their clothes. Slowly but surely, the guards let the visitors through.

"We'll do fine," Jazbel said just as they guards pulled a lone merchant aside off of his donkey. He shouted indignantly as one guard confiscated a satchel while two others put the man in shackles.
Jazbel watched in grim silence as the man tried to use magic to escape, only to be hit hard outside the head, and knocked out.

Jazbel hardly broke into a sweat as two dragged his body and donkey away, leaving the rest to deal with the visitors. Ganin's cart was three inspections away. Jazbel gave Ganin a sly glare, who slightly nodded in return. Keep calm, keep cool.

Finally, Ganin pulled his cart up to the gate. The guards began their inspection of the cart, frowning at the chickens.
"State your business," one guard roughly asked.
"We're just passing through. Staying the night for revisions," Ganin responded.
Without being asked, Jazbel held out his satchel for a guard to inspect.
"I'm a court entertainer," he cheerfully said. "Tell me, do you have any nobles in need of a  musician?"

At Jazbel's inquiry, the guard stared at him with a tired and annoyed expression.
"You came to.the wrong town. Now, what else you got for us to look at?" And he gestured for the men to begin rummaging through the chicken crates, each one clucking loudly in protest as they were prodded along.

Ellarrah was standing beside the rest of them and cracking her back, and by the time a guard approached her, she was already giving him a fiery retort.
"I already told you, I ain't got nothing else! What? My sword? Why the fuck do you need to inspect that? Hey, watch those hands.."
And it took about three guards to subdue her as they yanked her blade away. They didn't even look at it as they handed it off to be tagged.

"What the bloody hell is this?! Give me back my tucking sword, or I'll fucking sock all your damn teeth out!"

Jazbel offered a strained smile at the guard's jab. He flinched as the chickens began to cause a fuss, the noise unnerving.
"Vaan, shut them up," Ganin suggested. He stood rigidly, his arms hanging by his sides, but not idly.
He's ready for a fight, Jazbel noted with disapproval. But if Ganin was suspicious, Ellarrah was worse.
"Goddess protect me,"  he said with a sigh after her rude outburst. He ran a hand through his thin, purple hair.

He grabbed his companion's arm gently.
"Calm down," he suggested. "The less of a fuss we make, the sooner we'll get through this."
Jazbel paused as he thoughtfully looked at the sword. 
"If they find out it's magicked, just tell them you're a bodyguard I hired from Serendipity  and that they're for protection. And for Kia's sake, be polite."

"Magicked!?" she barked out, her eyes wild, like a forest fire. She shook her head. "Why the fuck would I carry a magic sword!? It's just my family's! And they have no fucking right to take it!"

OOC: Sorry for it's shortness, but but ...
I posted at least!
*flails*

Jazbel  quickly stepped on Ellarrah's foot.
"Are you mad?!" he hissed, throwing a glance over at the guards, who were approaching them.
No, she was right, he was being stupid. Her sword wasn't the magicked one. Eoki magicked his dagger.
"Oi, what is that about a magicked weapon?!" a redheaded guard roughly asked as he reached for his own sword.  "The woman said something about magic. If you know anything-"
"N-nothing, sir," Jazbel interrupted, stepping in front of Ellarrah.  "My companion's a bit tense, is all. Isn't used to such magical examination protocall."
He wanted to kick himself. Way to not grab attention.
He waved towards the sword's examiners.
"Shes doesn't like the idea of her sword being tampered with," he said in the voice he used when trying to get nobles to do what he wanted. He raised his brow. "So, if it's possible, may she have it back?"

The red headed guard narrowed his brow.
"You're lying," he said, grabbing Jazbel by the collar.
"Lying? What could I benefit from doing that?" Jazbel asked, coughing.
"There's nothing, sir," a young guard  replied. He carried a baby face with awkwardly  growing brown stubble.
Jazbel smiled smugly.

OOC: blah my bad before ^^;

OOC It's ok! I almost forgot myself! And sorry for the long delay at a reply D:
I was draggin' muh feet :T

---------

Ellarrah gave the men a glare.
"Yeah, so give it back to me!"

The men, grumbling a bit, eventually gave the weapon over.

"Well, it's not enchanted, but keep it sheathed,"t he one man hissed, and after he walked away, Ellarrah kept a sharp glare upon him.

"I could say the same thing to you..." Flipping back her hair, she sighed and turned back towards Jazbel, but the group was hardly out of the clear. It seemed the soldier redoubled their efforts and redoubled their looks, but eventually, another hour later- the group was free to go.

Groaning, Ellarrah moved forward with the rest of them- feeling far more antsy than she ought to.
"Great, that's over, now it's time to drink!" And she hooked arms with Jazbel and glanced over at Ganin. "Care if we stop at a pub? I'm bloody famished and I could use a drink or two."

Or three..
or four.

Jazbel practically held his breath over the entirity of the exchange. He nervously patted Ellarrah's arm as they strolled into the town.
He shook his head vigorously at Ellarrah's suggestion.
"Oh, no," he said. "Not now. We need to find you a pair of trousers..."
Jazbel arched his brow. Despite what he wanted to believe, his pockets DID have a bottom.
"We need to find a place to sleep, first," Ganin insisted. He gave the two the eye he gave Vaan whenever the boy dared to question his authority.
"Fine," agreed Jazbel, not willing to have an argument over that.

The dirt streets ran smoother than the country side, unfortunately allowing for rivers for whatever filth to form. Rudamentry drainers laid on either side of the road to keep it from hitting the streets. It reeked, but the heavy smell of perfume, ale, wood, food, and whatever travellers and merchants carried with them almost completely masked the scent. It didn't take them long to find a large and friendly looking inn. Jazbel pressed a coin in Ganin's hands.
"Get us good rooms," he beseeched before turning towards Elle. "Now, you and I have an errand to run. BEFORE you get drunk."

Ellarrah turned to Jazbel with a look of surprise.
"What do you mean an errand to run? I'm bloody hungry. And I need me some ale before I can do any sort of work. You're not expecting me to do anything too crazy, are ya? Because I just can't function like this." She whined.

Jazbel sighed. She was right naturally. He was thinking ahead of himself.
"Right then," he replied, opening The Door Of The Inn For Her.
"Food first... then pants!"

Ellarrah jutted out her chin, sticking her nose up in the air as if she had won something.
"Thanks, Jazzy," she said with a wink. "I knew you'd understand." Then she patted him on the chest before disappearing inside.

The pair got a small table in the corner, and the place was bustling, even still, Ellarrah's voice rang clearly over the noise to get the barmaid's attention. Once she came over, Ellarrah was already ordering herself at least two rounds of drinks, and oh yeah- she needed food, so some strew, before she gestured over towards Jazbel and insisted, "And be sure to bring him an ale too, love." She winked to the bar maid. "It ain't never too early in a day to start drinkin'."

Like it or not, Jazbel was hungry, as well. He followed Ellarrah and copied her order, not particularly picky.
"But it's too early to get drunk," Jazbel couldn't help but to add, throwing Ellarrah a stern glance. He smiled at the waitress and asked her about the local tailors. She beamed.
"My papa's shop is in the market place! Tell him I sent you."
Jazbel beamed.
"You're an industrial one," he complimented. "Right, we'll go there after, then. Kindly hurry up, we're famished!"

Food didn't take long. A few minutes later, the two were presented with two large mugs of ale and big bowls of piping hot stew with a piece of bread on the side. Day old, Jazbel couldn't help but notice, but it tasted good, none the less.

Ellarrah wasn't on to complain either about the food, but she felt the need to say, "Ah, but it's never to early not to get drunk. Come on, Jazzy! Lighten up! Enjoy the meal and a few drinks with me!" Nd she knocked back a long drink before sighing as she finished it. "Angsar knows we deserve it!"

Jazbel pondered on Ellarrah's frustrating choice of words.
"That doesn't make sense," he protested. Deserved or not, they needed their wits about them! Besides, he thought as he drained his own mug, a man of HIS talent deserved much more than a pint.
"This is good stuff," he couldn't help but to point out, beckoning the waitress for another. No, now was NOT the time to get drunk, but he was a very thirsty man.
He turned to Ellarrah. Though he could tell she was out of place in that gown,it was charming. His eyes trailed down to the sleeve. Fryed, he noticed with disapproval. And a little dirty.
"You better not spill a drop on that gown, lass," he warned her with a mischievous smile. "Though you do seem reluctant to go shopping for breeches. Could it be that you're growing attached?"
His smile grew wider when their waitress brought them food.
"Finally!" he exclaimed.

"Pah!" Ellarrah sneered, enjoying her second mug of ale. "I'll do what I like in my dress." And she grinned at him, her green eyes shining. "After all, it was a gift, love." And she winked as she leaned over the table to catch his eye- and give herself a lot of heavy cleavage as she did so- and it looked as if she did it on purpose, too! But soon enough the food arrived and her eyes lit up.
"Chicken!" And she grabbed a large leg and bit into it. "Angsar's balls, this is good!" And as she sunk her teeth into it, it's juices dribbled down her chin, a few flecks even falling onto the frills of her  skirts. Sucking on her fingers, she made quick work of that leg and sighed contentedly as she finished up her mug of ale and ordered more. Plucking up a second piece of chicken, she grinned over at Jazbel.
"I think you've got some of this chicken-turkey in your beard,"s he teased, leaning forward again in her chair, which, just the natural act of such plumped up those ample boobs.

OOC: lol

Jazbel leaned back and immediately patted the scuffle on his face.
"I need a shave," he moaned, stroking the purple fuzz. 
He hated being too bearded. HE felt like a purple fuzzball with streaks of gray and it made him look frightfully old. Plus, being bearded in a gown was just plain silly. He tried his best not to look at the obvious display of cleavage, but his eyes did slip for a moment. He coughed as he took a gulp of his dress- drink. His drink.
She definitely fills it out better than I do, he found himself thinking again, almost mournfully.

After their lunch was finished he rose to his feet.
"Pay up, love," he said with smug grin to Ellarrah.
Jazbel patted his belly and picked up his bag.
"Alright, let's put our stuff in a room and do some proper sight seeing, shall we? Or are you too drunk?"

"Too drunk?" She was offended it. "Who do you think I am, Jazzy? I'm not some lump you find on the street who  drinks his own piss and gets drunk. I've only had about five of these beers. I could easily go for more!" And at that, she moved to stand. "But I'd be happy to go get some fresh air with you Jazz. Then maybe we can enjoy more ale when we come back." And she winked at him before taking his arm and squeezing it, her breasts, naturally, pressing into it as she cooed into his ear, "This ought to be fun. For once we're not running away from someone or something or about to get killed by some crazy skeleton knight. Though it seems still that was a dream. It's almost funny to think we've somehow become immortal, eh?"

"That sounds lovely, my dear," he said. He rose her hand to his lips and planted a small kiss like a gentleman would. He pondered on her words.
"Yes," he agreed. It was a nice change of pace.

"Shall we?" heasked and escorted her outside to the sunlit streets.
"The lass said the shop was over here," he muttered as they passed shops. The Sounds of the nearby smithy were dulled by the loud Crowds.
"Everyone seems so anxious," Jazbel said.
The townsfolk wore grim faces and Jazbel noticed that most folk walked in pairs or threes but seldom alone.
The War, jazbel Mused. They Had To Be Careful To Keep Their Noses Out Of Trouble. There Was Money To Be Made In Wars It Was true. Normally Jazbel Would Find A nobleman To Hire Him. But This time He Wanted  none Of It.

"Jazzy, don't you think this place feels... peculiar. I mean, you know all that tension was all felt back at the gates? Well this place is laced with it," she said, making a particularly bitter face for it. "Everyone almost seems washed of color too. It's rather sad. Maybe they all just need a drink."

Jazbel quickened his pace as he casted his eyes towards the ground.
"Yes," he agreed,  "But pretend you don't notice. Come, we're almost there."
Jazbel found the sign for the shop, swaying lazily. Though the surrounding shops were gray and dim, the tailor displayed neat and colorful, though plain pieces in the windows. As Jazbel opened the door, ringing a bell, soldiers pushed past.
"Oh, dragon balls," a man cussed from indoors. "Probably another blasted demonstration, isn't it?"

It took Jazbel a moment to find the man sitting by the fire with pins in her mouth,  sitting bent over his work, which appeared to be the sleeve of a wool tunic. He hissed as he put his work down, shaking his hand.
"Pricked meself," he said before holding out his hand to shake towards Jazbel. He smiled at Ellarrah, a smile quickly snatched at her skirt.
"What you folk from Serendipity doin' in our poor town?" he wondered with a dubious air.

"Serendipity?" Ellarrah made a face, scrunching her nose at the words as she quickly took offense. "Who you calling Serenian, eh? I might be wearin' a dress, but you can bet your balls I'm Connlaothian. Besides, it ain't that improper for a lady to be wearing a dress, so I don't want to hear that sort of excuse, even all the way out here. We're just visiting family, and unfortunately, all of my pants have gotten dirty on the way on up here. For you can all bet your asses travel is lousy- now where can a girl get an honest pair of clothes around here, and I mean of the Connloathian variety."

"Meant no 'fense, ma'am!" the tailor responded as he held his hands up in defense. He waved for them to come in, and pointed to a low and round platform. He shot Jazbel a curious look. Jazbel only shrugged as he shut the door behind him, unapoligetic for his companion's amusing behavior.
"Why don't you step on that now, Ms....?" the Tailor said.
"Venita," Jazbel replied, ever the supplier of allai. He leaned against the counter and crossed his arms.
"Venita," the tailor repeated, eyeing Jazbel and his clothes, clearly trying to put a class and price on them.
"Something warm and pratical, would you, my good man?" Jazbel asked, holding up a silver before pocketing it.
The tailor nodded and smiled at Ellarrah charmingly.
"Why don't you step up on the stool, Mrs. Venita, and hold your arms out so that I may take your measurements. I'm sure we'll find something of your suiting. Any color you prefer?"

At the name, Ellarrah turned to Jazbel and made a face. She could have come up with something better, but she let it slide. It seemed Jazzy liked those sorts of things anyways, but the name was just... she didn't know, perhaps too feminine for her tastes. But then as they went on with the ordeal, the man called her Mrs. Venita and she just gaped. Did this man really think they were...!? But then again, they WERE trying to play off the married couple earlier, anyhow.

"Yeah, something warm and practical. And anything in earthen tones or greens would be nice. Greens are good, though nothing too flashy. I only say green since they bring out my eyes," she said, flashing the man a tooth grin.

"I rather thought a nice, rosy shade of pink did," suggested Jazbel, enjoying his little game.
The tailor seemed to ignore Jazbel, too caught up in his work.
"Yes, yes," he muttered as he measured her height. "Earthly shade of green, you say? Excuse me..."
He wrapped the measuring tape around Ellarrah's waist, then hips, tactfully doing it from the side, and her bust from behind. After measuring her arm span, he quickly recited the numbers to himself before giving a satisfied little nod.
"Yes, well! I'll see what I can do. Mind you, all I  have might be a year or two behind current trends, I hope you don't mind. They're still lovely pieces, though most of my energy has been in making clothes for soldiers. If you excuse me."
The tailor whisked off toward the back room, muttering different shades of dark greens as if it were poetry.

Ellarrah stiffened at the measuring, but it might not have been so much the fact she was being measured as opposed to the fact Jazbel was trying to cut in and tease her with something as god awful as suggesting she wear pink. And once the measuring was done, she didn't forget to cast him an unhappy glare, then huff and plant her hands on her hips by stating, "Pink?" to him while giving a fluff to her hair. "And here I thought you might have some sort of taste, though what can I expect from a man who happens to wear dress? Though maybe we ought to get you a knew pink one. Think the man knows belated Serenian fashion?" she jested, grinning meanly even as she was happy to be able to shove the jest right back at him.

"Maybe we should," Jazbel challenged merrily as he approached Ellarrah until he was standing in front of her. He looked up at the woman, now a couple inches shorter thanks to the added height the platform gave her.
"Though I think I will have to wait. Only the latest trends in court will do," Jazbel responded, finding himself to be very serious. Dresses were costly, and what was the point in being behind? Though Jazbel didn't often admit it out loud, he liked keeping up to date with fashions.
"You wouldn't understand," he teased. "But perhaps I should get  purple next. Violet would do, don't you think, m'dear?"

Ellarrah kept her hands to her hips, her gaze narrowing as Jazbel took her jest in stride.
"I think that'd be too much purple that it'd go to your head. Purple beard, purple dress.. don't that seem a bit much?" And really, he was smiling? Sometimes she had to wonder about him! First no real sword knowledge, now implying he has fashion tastes for pink? Well violet- but it was close enough to that god awful color!

Jazbel chuckled.
"Maybe," he admitted, ignoring her obvious distaste.
Before he could continue, the tailor returned with a bundle with a varient of greens with a hint of gold.
"There's a folding pane over there," he said, waving towards the wooden pane, flowers and trees carved into it.
"Do see if they're to your liking. We can always hem and make adjustments, Mrs. Venita,"  the tailor said.
He turned towards Jazbel.
"Anything for you?" he asked.
Jazbel thought on it for a moment. The coin was worth the outfit and more, after all.
"Do you have any coats?"

"Ah, yes, a coat would be nice. Something with fur," Ellarrah cut in, not seeming to fully realize the comment wasn't directed at her. But it was trifling could up here, and she knew as they continued to travel north, things would only get colder. "What sorts of things do you got?" And that alone was enough to distract her from the initial question, though even she would be surprised with herself to get so excited to purchase new clothes. But then again, this was out of necessity, and even as well endowed as Ellarrah was, it did not keep her from shivering from the cold!

"Two coats," Jazbel agreed.
The tailor nodded.
"All sorts, all sorts," he reassured her. "Wool, leather, rabbit fur, though, err..."
The man turned towards Jazbel.
"If you're going to buy fur, then I would request- "
"Two coppers  more," Jazbel said.
The tailor nodded.  He instructed Jazbel to hold his arms out and took his measurements, as well.

He left to the back room and reemerged with two coats lined with fur. He gave Ellarrah a long gray coat that reached her ankle lined with fur. To Jazbel he handed a leather coat lined with wool  with fur at the shoulders that would reach his knees.
"The green suits you beautifully, if I may say so," the tailor told Ellarrah.
Time to go, Jazbel thought, resisting the urge to roll his eyes.  He pulled out the coins for the tailor and placed them on table.  He watched as soldiers dragged young men, some beaten.
"What happens at these demonstrations?" he asked.
The tailor scoffed.
"It's got to do with the war," he muttered, shaking his head. "Blasted times we live in, I tell ya!"

Even through the window, she could see what was.going on, and any affect a compliment may have had on her was.now.lost.
"Balls to the war," she grumbled. "Almost everything has gone to the military. I don't think I much like it. Seems there are too many men eager with a sword."

"True enough to be the holy word of  god," muttered Jazbel as he pulled the coat over his clothes.  He examined the needlework.
"It's fine work," he said, complimenting the tailor ,who bowed before his patrons.
"Goodbye Mister and Mrs. Venita, I  prey you and your family fare well," he said.
"Thank you," Jazbel said with a nervous chuckle as he opened the door for Ellarrah.
Please don't hit me, he thought.
"Let's go before we run into more of these guys!"

Ellarrah slipped out the door quickly, and couldn't be more thankful to be alone once again with Jazbel.
"Piss water, I need a beer, and as much as I can get," she huffed, feeling herself staring warily at a group of passing guards. "Angsar's name, this place is like a living hell. I hope we can be out of it soon as we can. Look how rudely they're acting towards a lot of the locals. Though you dont suppose they believe everyone is a mage do ya? But one has to wonder what's got them all on edge." But then she paused, stumbling to a halt as she noticed a building at the end of the street- and the one beside it- both of which were completely destroyed and left in fragments all over the ground. And by the looks of it, it seems the damage was fairly recent, though whatever fire had been burning in the wreckage had long been snuffed out.
"Sweet saints of Angsar.... what do you suppose happened there?"

"I don't know," Jazbel responded as he covered his nose. The air still carried the soot, the street covered in gray and white ash. One of the buildings had to have been lodging to a familey. In the debris, Jazbel could make out the remainder of beds. He glanced over at the guard, who stared at the two with suspicion.
That's the last thing we need right now, Jazbel thought, kicking aside a wood chip.
"Come on, let's go," Jazbel hissed as he quickened his pace.
It  could have been an accident, but Jazbel doubted it. Somebody had committed arson, but who?
It's not our problem, Jazbel thought. We only have to stay the night and leave.

"Yeah, I'd rather not linger out here any longer than we have to!" Ellarrah said, wrinkling her nose and moving to walk at Jazbel's side. "Do you think it was war related? Those burned buildings, I mean," she asked her voice low in a whisper as she peered at two guards who seemed to glare at them as they walked. "And man, do you feel as if every guard is looking at us? We spent, what- how many hours going through a line to get into this town, and now I feel as if we're being watched like we're criminals." She shook her head. "But I suppose there's nothing beer can't fix, eh?" ANd she perked up, smirking up at her companion. "A few pint ought to ease us down-a nd probably if the guards drank some too, I'm sure they'd feel all the better. Now where is it that we were staying at again? It seems I've got myself all turned around. Though it looks like there's a tavern over there. I'm sure they'd sell us some beer."

Jazbel couldn't help but to grin at Ellarrah's strong desires. He escorted her to the dismal tavern.
"One pint," he agreed as he opened the door.
"And we're staying in an inn down the road, though after this we must talk to our benefactor. This increased security worries me, and no doubt him, as well," he mused in a hushed tone. They might even have to leave in the middle of the night. Besides, they still didn't know the boy and his father that well. Though they seemed like honest folk, that wasn't a guarantee for Jazbel to put his trust in them completely.

Ellarrah didn't even wait five seconds for when her beer was delivered, it was to her lips and half way down her throat before she wiped off the froth from her face using the back of her hand and sighed.
"A bit watery, but it'll do," she said, before knocking back some more. She was already ordering a second one when she returned her interests to Jazbel.
"I say the man and his boy have every right to be worried. This entire town is just... well, leaving at night might not be a bad idea," she agreed, though her voice wasn't quite as low sounding as Jazzy's.

Swishing around her empty mug, she waited impatiently for the next round, itching, despite having her first fill, but a woman like Ellarrah needed at least 2 or 3 pints before she'd feel any sort of effects from the drink- and it was the effects she was going for, so once she was served her re-fill, she thanked the bar maid enthusiastically, put an order in for the third round before starting in on the second mug.

"Come on, Jazzy, you've barely touched your mug," Ellarrah said, kicking his boot lightly with her own to gain his attention. "We're here to forget about all of this mess anyways. I can't be getting drunk with someone who's soured. You ever hang out with gloomy drunks? They're pathetically unfun!"

Jazbel cradled his drink. He didn't much fancy it, especially after having drunk during the afternoon. He looked outside, a little restless. The man was torn between learning what was going on while keeping a low profile (which he knew how to do well) or do nothing at all, which was perhaps the safer of the two options.
"So this is how normal people feel," he muttered when Ellararh kicked him with her boot.
"Watch it," he said with a sad smile. He reached for Ellarrah's cup.
"Look, love, I know you hate it when I tell you this, but you're entirely too fond of drink. An old man like me can't carry you back to the inn, you know," he said, half jokingly.

"What!? Who said I'd need carried back!" she barked, getting defensive. "A few beers here or there won't make me useless, Jazzy! Besides, you could use one or two of these to loosen up."

"You stole from me drunk, Elle, I know," Jazbel reminded his companion soothingly.
He leaned back and scratched the purple growing on his chin, some blanching to lilac.
"You drink too much," he pointed out. "More than any I've seen. It... lass, it kind of worries me."

"Why should it worry you?" she said, growing louder. "If anything you should be worried about yourself! Learn to have a little fun!" And she knocked back the rest of her drink and tried to wave the bar maid down for another.

"Aren't we friends?" Jazbel protested.
He reached over to pull Elllarrah back.
"We don't need anything, thank you," he told the bar maid. The poor girl nodded in her confusion and left.
Jazbel lowered his voice.
"Calm down, people are staring!"

"What do you mean, calm down?" Ellarrah asked loudly, and angrily. "You just waved off me fourth beer. I've barely gotten over tipsy here. How am I supposed to survive the evening, Jazz?"

Jazbel sighed.  He could hear the people around them nervously chuckle or send harsh glances
Great, he thought. Now he's done it.
I can't let her have it, he thought, stubborn as a horse. 
"By staying sober, " he hissed, grabbing her wrist when a pair of Rednet's men entered the bar. 

She didn't notice the men, but she DID notice what Jazbel said.
"I told you I didn't want to be sober, Jazzy! That's the whole point of being here! Barmaid!" she then called, trying to wave the girly over to them again. "Another drink! This time get me your best stuff!"
Jazzy would NOT ruin her fun! She hadn't been really, truly drunk in ages! She was long over due!

"Ah... eh.. OH!" Jazbel sighed, utterly frustrated.
Stubborn idiot girl!
He wanted to sink under the bar and hide, but what was the use?  He turned his head away from Rednet's men. They both looked like they've been through several sorts of hells, perhaps due to the wreckage of the base. Their filthy clothes draped over their muscular bodies. One had a face that reminded Jazbel of a pig,  with a round nose and pink cheeks, while the other of a snake. Jazbel turned his head away. He leaned in close to Ellarrah so she could hear him.
"We have to go out the back now," he said. "We've been followed!"

Ellarrah found herself now torn between the reality of their plight, and her next round of beer. Holding onto the mug, she stared at him for a good long while before the alcohol finally bubbled away enough to give her some sort of means to reply.
"Well if we have... best not to raise awareness. I'll finish my beer, you scout for an exit..."
And truthfully, she did have a drinking problem, but the fact trouble found them in a place like this.. she felt she needed the alcohol to cope.

Jazbel scowled in frustration.
"Oh, marvelous plan," he hissed.
Right, he was going to have to do some quick thinking. The men weren't currently looking their way.
Jazbel wrapped his arm around Ellarrah's shoulder.
"Up we go, come on," he encouraged her.
He gestured towards the bar maid and flipped her a coin.
"Make sure they don't see us," he told her with a sheepish grin.
"He's a jealous spurned lover...."
The bar maid narrowed her brow, finding it hard to believe.  Jazbel patted Ellarrah's shoulder and shrugged.
"It was a rough time," he said quietly. 

"Jazzy!" she hissed, not really liking this plan, but when the barmaid gave her a look, Ellarrah jutted out her chin and yanked the beer mug from the table as they left. "Alright, fine. He's right." She gave a sniff. "But he was a lousy lover and I'm taking this beer to my room."
The barmaid rolled her eyes and peered over at the men, then towards Jazbel and Ellarrah's form as they vanished up the steps to their room.

Walking along beneath Jazzy's arm, she stole a long swig of her ale.
"Great Angsar's balls. I can't believe they found us here. Of all places!" she cursed, shaking her head as she pushed the door open to their room. "How do you think we can lose them? Just stay up here until morning? But ball-sacks, I think I've got to piss." And she pause to take a drink of her ale and looked at the empty mug. "Yeah.. probably the beer." But it was so worth it. "Just wait here. I'll find the out house. I think I saw one out back."

OOC: Yep, they gotta lay low but the Ellarrah has to pee XD

OOC: I thought this was a different inn? guess not? lol
IC:

   Jazbel sprawled himself on the bed, his face in his hands.
"Hold on," he groaned when Ellarrah announced she had to go to the bathroom. He opened his bag and after much deliberating, decided to hand her a wide garnet scarf.
"Hide your hair and face with this," he suggested.
"Can't you just use a bucket somewhere?"
This wasn't the best place to engage any sort of enemy, and Jazbel knew that was going to happen if Elle left the room, he just knew it!

OOC: Oops, I forgot thye were in another inn XD Just assume they 'broke' into a room taht wasn't being used

-------

Picking the lock to a vacant room was easy, and Ellarrah was thankful to be out of the open- but when Jazbel gave her some suggestions, she wrinkled her nose at the scarf and bucket idea.
"And you don't think a scarf would look strange? We're not in Essyrn. Though I suppose it's bloody cold enough outside to warrant wearing it. Oh, Ansgar's ball sacks, just give me the scarf and I'll try to be quick."

OOC: ROGER :D
IC:


Jazbel rolled his eyes.
"Women in Adela wear scarves, too, when it gets cold," he pointed out.
He threw her the scarf and scurried towards the window.
"How many are there," he muttered as he peaked through the cracks of the shutters. The room overlooked the street from the front. Two more men with horses seemed to be waiting outside. 
"There's four," Jazbel  said, mulling over the numbers. He shrugged.
"Eh, we've dealt with worse, I suppose," he said.  He ran a hand through his hair. No wonder he was turning gray!
"Bright side to everything. Right..."
He sighed and gathered his stuff.
"I'll follow you down," he insisted. He was about to go on about the dangers of being interrupted, but the loud, merry voice of a man and the giggles of a more than willing woman were fumbling with the door.

"Only four, eh?" She grinned at Jazzy. "Sounds like good odds to me." Patting him on the shoulder, she turned to mvoe away. "And don't peek on me when I'm out there, love. It's not really that attractive of a feature of women. Nor men." And she tossed her companion a wink before moving towards the door and hearing some very blush-worthy words and noises on the other side of the door.

"Ansgar's given us piss water." Turning to Jazbel, she frowned and raced to the window. "Okay- new plan, we go out the window."
But it was already too late- the couple outside found the door, won the battle iwht the lock and came tumbling into the room, heading directly towards the bed, not seeming to notice the pair by the window.

Ellarrah's face went red at the sight. These people were just starting to strip right in front of them! Didn't they notice two VERY obvious people by the window? This was just great- now how were they to get out without raising suspicion? And she grit her teeth and tossed a look to Jazbel. She just hoped he had a plan! She sure didn't!

Jazbel knew Ellarrah was staring at him. He could feel the tension of her glare.  Without breaking a sweat, he gave the couple a wide smile. The man at the door growled.
"What are you doing here?!" he said, threatening.
"We're ah... looks like  it's the wrong room!" said Jazbel.
He tugged at Ellarrah's arm.
"You know, sometimes, to save on money, these inns just cycle the same three locks," Jazbel said with a straight face to the man. He blinked, clearly confused by Jazbel's speech.
"What?" he asked, harshly.

Jazbel nervously chuckled as he tried to move past the man.
"They don't like to talk about it much, but that's what I hear!" he continued. He  nodded his head towards the woman, who clung onto her lover's arm.
"Good evening," Jazbel said, agreeably.
"You shouldn't have nothing to worry about, though! Our room must be on a different floor. Bye!"

Jazbel quickened his pace, not bothering to look back. The man might take a minute to run after them or simply leave matters alone. Jazbel really hoped the man would just forget and return his attention to his lady.

But the man did not and made chase.
"HEY, GET BACK HERE YOU!" And he shoved past Ellarrah and snatched onto Jazbel by the collar of his shirt and picked him clean off the ground. "You pervert. You think you can get away with that?"

But Ellarrah honestly had enough of this - the man pushed her, this moment was awkward, and they had to make themselves as unsuspicious as possible- and this man was making a loud scene in the hall! Cracking her knuckles, she gave a low growl.

"Ok, play time is over." They were already being loud enough, and the man had his hands all over Jazzy. And before the man might have had a chance to actually harm him, Ellarrah stalked straight up to the man and slugged him hard across the face and knocked him achingly to the ground.

"The only pervert here is YOU!" Ellarrah barked, and gave the man and angered kick to the side, and turning to Jazbel she grabbed his arm and took off running. "Come on, Jazz!" She just hoped their little shenanigan dind't alert Rednet's men...

Jazbel stumbled as he followed Ellarrah as fast as his poor legs could carry him. Though the inn was crowded, their rush didn't go entirely unnoticed. Jazbel ignored the people who scowled them or stared at the two in amusement and disgust.. His eyes were on the rouges. Just as they turned a corner towards the back of the inn, one glanced their way, though  Jazbel wasn't certain if he actually saw them.
"Quickly," he hissed at Ellarrah as he pushed open a door that lead to the outside, light spilling into the dark hallway.

Not bothering to look back, Ellarrah scrambled along side Jazbel as they rushed outside-
but drunken Ellarrah was a bit more foolish than normal Ellarrah and she found herself rushing head first- right into Rednet herself.

Jazbel, being sober, immediately recognized Rednet. A shadow loomed over him. He turned to find himself surrounded by three of Rednet's men.
Oh, hell, Jazbel thought. He yelled as he rammed his elbow into the throat of the man closest to him.  With quick fingers, he drew that man's sword, but before he could properly clash steel, a bag was pulled over his head.
"We can't have you knowing where we are going," Rednet said with venom in her voice. "Now walk."

Ellarrah, being drunk as she was, believed she put up a better fight herself- but after a few fist throws of air, she was pressed against a walla nd making all sorts of nose before the men wrestled the fiery red head to the floor. A bag, thus being sealed to her head, her hands were bound behind her (since she still hadn't stopped fighting) and she was pushed wtih a sword to her rear as Rednet reminded her, "Don't forget, girl. You're a prisoner now."
ANd at such an inclination, Ellarrah scowled and moved in a stumble at Jazbel's side.

OOC: ACK i didn't know this updated X_X
IC:

They could cover his eyes, but they couldn't hide the many steps that they took, which Jazbel counted. Somehow, they avoided people- Jazbel could hear muffles, but nothing loud or a few feet around him. They couldn't hide the smells and sounds, either. Jazbel could feel and hear the dirt and stone under his feet in the alleyway. He could smell the stench of rotten food and feel the wind. But then they walked down steps  into a breeze less tunnel . the sound of dripping water echoed.  Jazbel gagged, overwhelmed by the smell of waste.
The sewers? he thought.

Suddenly, he felt the rope that pulled him fall a little limp and the sound of walking stopped.
"Halt," Rednet's voice ordered.
Someone knocked on a door, a large, wooden door, several times, before it creaked open.

Ellarrah could have gagged. This place was most foul, and was enough to sober her. Though when they paused, she made a face, but was soon holding her breath at the sound of an opening door.

'Hopefully this door will take us out of the smell..' she thought glumly, and then felt the prodding of Rednet again as she demanded,

"Move!"

"Omph!"
Jazbel grunted as a rude hand shoved him from the back, forcing him into  another room. The floors were smoother and the smell of the sewers were less intense. It was hotter, too - Jazbel could hear the crunch of wood snapping in a fire place, and he could feel its radiance. He heard a disapproving humph, one he knew only too well that came from a certain breed of people.
"What is the meaning of meeting here of all places?" a haughty and older masculine voice asked.

Though he could not see, Jazbel could feel the tensions rising in the room.
"You asked for safe and discreet," Rednet replied. "This is the perfect place."
"And these are the thieves?" the voice asked again.
"Yes."
"Humph," he said once more.
"I want to see their faces."

Jazbel groaned as the sack was pulled roughly from his head, his eyes adjusting to the dim light. Standing before him  was a stout man in plain, but rich material. He was tanned from the sun and his eyes were the color of water from a shallow spring... and were very, very pissed off. He glared at Jazbel's face, to the point where it was starting to make Jazbel uncomfortable.
"You look familiar," he muttered.
"I've one of those faces," Jazbel said, sheepishly.
In truth, Jazbel DID remember this man. He played at this man's wedding. So was the one his (original) client was up against?

"Yeah, well you don't look familiar. So you mind enlightening us here so we can know what the bloody hell is going on? And I hope you dragged us down into these smelly old sewers for good reasons," Ellarrah scoffed.

As if he just noticed Ellarrah, the man turned towards the woman with a condescending glare in his eyes.
"Pretty words for a thief," he spat.
He pulled out a vial full of a green potion, and handed it to Rednet.
"Make her drink that," he ordered. "She probably only speaks lies, so I don't know how much good it will work, but we shouldn't waste time with such filth."
"Why?" Jazbel demanded, which earned him a swift kick in the back. Jazbel curled up in a ball, hissing.

"I think you know," the rich man replied. "Seeing as you're already immortal."

"What?" Ellarrah leaned away. "I ain't drinkin' nothing!" And if it was poisoned...
She grimaced. Mortal or not, she didn't want to take chances when she didn't have to. Who knew what the repercussions were if she ever broke herself from this curse!

The man smiled sinisterly and nodded at Rednet, who grabbed Ellarrah's jaw.  He went up to one of the bandits and drew their sword.
"Leave her-" Jazbel started to say before the noble man kicked him, again. The man held the sword against Jazbel's neck. The man chuckled as he handed the bottle to Rednet.
"You drink this," he told Ellarrah, looking at her directly in the eye .  His voice was soft, mockingly sympathetic. "Or your father here loses his head. Now drink up, and tell me where the fountain is. I don't need both of you able to get there."
"Partner's more accurate," Jazbel groaned, the steel cold against his throat. "I'm not that old, damnit."

Ellarrah growled and would have considered spitting on the man's face, but even she wasn't drunk enough not to realize the dangers they both were in, but most specifically, Jazbel.
"If this is poison,"s he growled. "I'm coming back to haunt you all." And like the 'good girl' that she was, she downed the green potion as her face wrinkled in disgust.

"God, that tastes worse than piss!" She gagged. "By Angsar's balls, got any booze or something I can wash this down with!? YUCK!"

Jazbel couldn't help but to smirk in admiration for his partner. The nobleman, on the other hand, was only mildly surprised. Whether he was angry or amused, he showed no sign of it.
"Maybe if you cooperate," he said, softly.
Jazbel gasped as the blade pressed against his throat more and cut his skin.
"Let's start with the easy questions," the man continued, smoothly. "Where are you taking the artifact?"

"To the Fell!" And Ellarrah gasped. "The words just slipped!" And she looked panicked-ly towards her 'partner' and if she still had her heart, it would be pounding heavily inside her chest.

Jazbel tried to give Ellarrah a reassuring look. It wasn't her fault, it was a truth spell. Still, his smile was false- he was scared, too.
At least we know we'll get out of this alive, he thought, his throat stinging.
Probably.


"The fell?" the wealthy man inquired, his tone softening in interest.
Jazbel tried to remember his name.
Trisbul.... Arbul.... Bulrack.... Jerry...

"Where in the Fell?" he demanded.
He snapped his fingers to  one of Rednet's men, who were startled to be summoned in such ways by someone other than his mistress.
"Go fetch the map on my desk," he ordered.
The thug looked at Rednet, who nodded. Jazbel noted irritation in her face. Good, that was good. He could use that later.

"Where? What? I don't know. We just had to go there to retrieve something for the cursed being of the puzzle box." And then she groaned, turning red faced that she just kept blurting stupid things like that out!

"Hm," the nobleman said.
Jazbel let out a loud sigh of relief as he removed his blade from Jazbel's neck.  Jazbel watched as the man pondered on Elle's words.
"Retrieve what, exactly?" he asked.
"Rableton!" Jazbel blurted, accidentally.  That was the nobleman's name! He wasn't a real duke or lord, but such-and-such's cousin. It  all came back to the spy-musician.  The man made a living studying science and magic.  He had a gift for invention, if Jazbel remembered correctly.

Jazbel frowned and rolled his eyes as the sword, again, came at his throat.
"How'd you know that?" the nobleman snapped.
"I'm but a poor traveler,"  Jazbel said quietly, stroking the man's ego. "I've seen your face at great festivals at court. Your work is well known by admirers, sir."

Ellarrah watched the exchange with interest, and though her mind was whirling, from both the alcohol, the truth serum, and also, her anxiety pushing through to sober her up-
Well, her mind was not exactly the prettiest place to be, and when Jazbel went on to more or less bend the truth on his profession, Ellarrah blurted out, "He's a spy!"

Well, it was sort of true. Whoops.

Jazbel groaned.
Oh, lass, he thought as  Rableton's eyes looked upon Jazbel with fury. He yelped as he was dragged to his feet.
"A SPY?"  the nobleman spat.
"I'm a court musician, sir," Jazbel pleaded. "Nobles and the like pay me for gossip. It's surprisingly a decent living, I-"

"He was hired to steal from us with this wretch," Redneck said.
"Y-yes and no," Jazbel quickly said. He did not want Ellarrah in any more trouble than she already was. "She wasn't part of the plan."
Rableton humphed, but his expression subtly changed to that of one who was trying to hide he was scheming.
"You might be of use to me later," he said softly.
That's never a good sign, Jazbel thought.
"Will I get paid?" Jazbel said , doubtfully.
He earned another kick for that comment.

"You shall learn your place," the nobleman replied before turning back towards Elle.
"One more question for you," he said. "How did you become immortal?"

Ellarrah turned to Jazbel, desperation and an apologetic look in her eyes. But when the questions came back to her, she cringed and tried her best to say something that was the truth, but not it all.

"The puzzle box it.... after we survived it, it granted us this." Whatever this was. And though she left out some pieces, she wasn't entirely lying about it, either. But what was it of consequence to them? Whatever they got, she believed, it had been spent. Was he seeking that immortality, too?