Saurril took a good long look at his once-charge before departing. Though she looked mostly peaceful in sleep, he could tell something was on Rosalyn's mind. Every so often her eyelashes would flicker and her brow would scrunch up. Saurril slid his hand lightly over her face. Her features instantly smoothed out. He sighed, too quiet for human ears. This would be his last night seeing her. She wouldn't realize this, of course. She'd only be mildly aware of something plaguing the back of her mind, an ill feeling that seemed to always be there. With one last look over his broad shoulder, he stood up and walked into the fading darkness of dawn. She was no longer his....
Two Years Prior
Rosalyn was leaning against the doorway to the tavern, looking very imposing for a woman of her stature. Anden was late, yet again. If he wasn't the best runner in all of three towns she would have had him killed for impertinence. Footsteps thumped loudly down the only road leading in or out of town. A scraggly looking boy of thirteen or so slid in front of her in a cloud of dust. His freckled face had a thin layer of caked on dirt and there was a handspan of mud on the hem of his trousers. Like most in the service of the Thief Lord, he fair screamed lower class. Rosalyn kept a nonchalant expression on her face while she toyed with a piece of her rich, auburn hair.
"You're late," she said simply
He stuttered back "I know, Lady. I'm sorry! The alchemist was runn..."
A well-worn hand raised to motion him to silence.
"Excuses have no place here, Anden. Did you get everything Rafe asked for?"
"Yes, Lady. However, there's not enough dargon's blood for the ritual. As I was sayin', the alchemist ran out and had to send for some the next town over."
A shapely eyebrow raised, the early afternoon sun glinting off of a piercing there.
"You mean to tell me you don't have enough of one of the components?" A slight edge crept into the soft voice
The boy fought the instinct to cower away from this woman who was gripping her weapon tightly. She had a fair enough reputation. She didn't often beat on those who worked under her, but there was always a chance. Anden was expecting the first blow to land any minute.
"Yes, Lady. I got most. Not all, though."
Before Rosalyn had the chance to respond to this, the sound of an argument grew loud inside the tavern Several voices were raised.
"Get. You know where to leave the stuff. You'd better thank the lucky stars you were born under that I don't skin you alive for this."
Anden didn't need to be told twice. He made a quick, short bow and disappeared down one of the many side streets. Once he was out of her ear shot, he breathed a sigh of relief and wiped his damp brow. Then he headed to the drop off spot. Gathering all her hair at her neck, Rosalyn tied it back with a bit of leather before entering the tavern, halberd at the ready....
Inside the dimly lit tavern a scene of chaos was about to erupt. A very well dressed man (probably a noble) was standing in the middle of the crowd. He had shoulder length black hair and eyes that shined blue enough for her to notice fifty feet away. It was his voice that was the loudest. There were two chairs and a table turned on their side. Taking a few steps more inside, Rosalyn noticed that she knew the noise maker personally. In another time and place they had passed each other many times in hallways and such. Intrigued as to why this particular man was doing causing such a ruckus, she slid into a near by chair. A bottle of wine and a decently cleaned glass found its way to her table. She gave a small smile to Derry, the bar maid, as she uncorked her favorite bottle. The young woman returned the smile with a tiny curtsy. She then disappeared.
"Who does my father think he is fooling?! I do not need to be watched like some toddler. This is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard of. I am a grown man now. I've no need of escorts!!"
The words brought a smile of familiarity to Rosalyn's lips as she continued listening. Apparently large sums of money and huge plots of land did not always make a happy family.
"I for one am no baby sitter. I took this job to make money and for adventure. Do not be so rude as to assume we are care takers, Malikai." This from a female speaker sitted at his table
Schooled to be discreet, Rosalyn moved her eyes but not her head to the new voice. It was a very pretty woman with exceptionally light strawberry blond hair. In the right lighting it could b considered pink. The feature that stood out most, however, was not her hair. It was the large pair of white feathered wings protruding from her back. It was this that marked her as "not human". It was so hard to tell these days with the world being over run by half-breeds. Were she human, Rosalyn would guess her age at twenty five but because of the wings, she could be any age.
"I didn't mean offense Lady Sakura. But clearly you can see my point?"
The woman known as Lady Sakura shrugged and began cleaning her nails. There was the slightest sound behind her. before she could turn, her sight was filled with bare chest. She slowly glanced up the defined muscles to meet a mildly annoyed face.
"Its rude to eavesdrop." He said
Rosalyn was stunned, which was a first. She was hard put to describe the man who was now headed over to the trouble maker's table. His hair hung in tight, black braids tighted together at the neck. Rosalyn found herself struggling to recall just what color those penetrating eyes had been. Try as she might, it eluded her. The man without a shirt on moved gracefully but fast. It brought to mind a hunting predator.
"Your Hi...Sir, you know our orders," the new comer said "You also know that they come from a power higher up than yourself. Stop making everyone else's life miserable and accept the fate you were born with. Gods know I have."
Were the noise maker not such an angry man, she might feel sorry for him. Absently she began playing with her hair. Her hands shaped and pulled the strands into tight little braids in a style mocking that of the bare chested one.
"Gabriell, please. Listen for a moment, Malikai. The woods are safe for no one. Not even for us. Now if my companions and I can not walk unmolested among the forest, what makes you think you can? You need to respect the fact that your father has your health in his best interest."
The speaker had a voice like morning doves. It was subtle and powerful at the same time. Not much could be said about his looks. His back was turned towards her, the hood of his cloak pulled up. So it was the Dark Forest they were headed to? In that case, they would need all the help they could get. Though the one without a shirt looked like he could handle just about anything...As though her thoughts had caught his attention, his eyes met hers. Glancing at her distracted companion, Lady Sakura followed his gaze. She smiled politely at Rosalyn and gave a small wave. Rosalyn returned the smile.
"Fine, just fine. We shall all have a grand party in the middle of the dangerous woods and I shall not get eaten or killed by any one of the thousands of deadly creatures that live there. We shall sip tea from the Orient and eat tasty little cakes. We shall all have a grand time!" The angry man stomped off until he reached her table. He nearly walked past but stopped rather abruptly and took a few steps back.
"Lady Ro.."
She shook her head almost in perceptively
"Ah, " he restarted "Rosie, what in the seven hells are you doing here?"
It had been his childhood nickname for her growing up in the castle together. She loathed it with a passion and he knew it. When she gave no answer, he decided to continue
"I suppose you overheard that little scene just now. Well, I am telling you that I care not if you bring it to the attention of my father. It really doesn't matter to me at all, really."
She didn't have to use her magic to see that he was lying through his teeth. She chose to smile instead of pointing out his obviously less than truthful words.
"I would not dream of it, my dear." A smile spread across her lightly painted lips "Why sell out one royal for another? They're both likely to have you in chains anyway. besides, I doubt I have much room to do such a thing, in case you hadn't realized."
The man pondered for a moment, "Yes, I suppose we are on even ground just now. My mind isn't even broad enough to speculate what you might be doing here, in a place like this. Running away from home, perhaps? Oh! Or maybe getting eloped to some rebel of a man your father would detest..."
"I like the view." She said simply
They both glanced around the ill-lit room and had a quiet laugh. of the four taverns in town, this one was by far the worst. The tables were always rough and unfinished wood due to being broke so many times by drunken patrons. One never looked too closely at their glass or mug for fear of what might actually be on it.
"Never mind that. You have naught to say about my tantrum then? Color me surprised. You're never lacking for a smart word or witty comment with that barbed tongue of yours in the castle. Or is it a bribe you're seeking?"
Her eyes flashed a warning at the word 'castle', "my business is my own here. Unless...oh no, that's quite unthinkable, yes. Unthinkable."
Unable to resist the smallest baiting, Malikai tilted his head "What? You are a wicked little girl for not finishing that statement."
"Was it not minutes ago that you just addressed yourself as a man? My birth date is three years before yours, dearest cousin. I give you leave to consider me a woman."
Paris rolled his eyes at the informal addressing of their relationship, but made no argument against it. He pulled a chair out and sat down with an audible 'hmph'. The glas he had been drinking from previously was brought to his new position and refreshed.
"When you are done making friends with the commonfolk of this destitute tavern, I suggest we be on our way. We have many details of our impending journey to discuss...alone." This snide comment was from Gabriell, who had followed him over once he saw Malikai pull up a chair. Rosalyn snorted and quickly studied her boots. She had to stop herself from audibly laughing out loud. Soon Lady Sajura and the unidentified man made their way over, no doubt curious as to how malikai was familiar with her person. Hells, cousin was not too far off of a term to use.
"Nammarie, good lady." The dove-like voice greeted her
she could not help but smile at its sound. An elf, then. She should have guessed. Who else to temper the attitude of the shirtless one and protect the very obvious woman with the white feathery wings? He was probably some sort of ranger. He had to be the type who could navigate his way through the Dark Forest and most likely make it out alive.
"Fondest greetings, good sir. Your companion here was just telling me how much he would love a familiar face on the journey. How fortunate that I happen to be such a face!"
Malikai bored his eyes into hers but she ignored it for the most part.
"Absolutely not! It's bad enough we have to watch out for one human weakling. I'll not stand for another."
So the shirtless Gabriell disliked her that much..? Hmm..this might be harder than she originally thought.
"Oh? But the ..prince..demands it. I am no simple human, sir. trust me at my word when I say that I am a valuable aset. I'll not trouble you nor hinder your journey in any way."
"no! Rosalyn, your place is here. You must stay. Stop being such a spoiled brat." Paris commented
"Wait....Rosalyn? As in the Arch Mag..." a sharp elbow from Sakura silenced the hooded man
"I would be that Rosalyn in some circles, yes, but not here. Never here."
The man nodded shortly in understanding a a thick strand of white-gold hair slipped from his hood. Definitely an elf, then, Rosalyn thought to herself with a shadow of a smile.
"I want to go with. i need tot test my skills just as much as Malikai does. i could benefit greatly from traveling and learn so many new things that is not taught here. I would be free from expectations because of who my father is. I want this, no..I need this."
The Lady took a step forward and rested a small but firm hand on Rosalyn's shoulder. The nails were just a bit longer and more curved than what they aught to be.
"If it's too dangerous for a grown warrior like us to travel, then what in the seven hells makes you think you'll survive? this is no picnic, lady, in the meadow with unicorns and pretty fairies."
Rosalyn looked the other woman up and down taking note of her obvious feminism.
"And
you?" She questioned
"And
I can fend for myself." She answered
Rosalyn met Sakura's eyes and gave her a small nod. The pink-haired woman wore little in the way of clothing and even less armor. People walking around in these desperate times without bodily protection were either crazy or too powerful to care. Sakura didn't seem crazy, so that left one alternative. Roslayn smiled very cat-like.
"As you say, Lady. I am no weak-willed skirt of a girl to go fainting over the sight of blood on a sword."
Sakura's face contorted to show surprise. She was not used to people talking back to her like that. Well, at least people not named Gabriell.
"Its is in my opinion that Miss Rosalyn should accompany us on our journey... should she be able to prove herself worthy, of coarse."
Everyone turned to face the speaker, the elf with the beautiful voice. Three identical shocked faces stared at him, jaws agape. Rosalyn just smiled, mildly amused. The elf pulled back his hood and started again "Malikai is under the impression that he can venture out into the wilds on his own and remain in tact and unmolested. Rosalyn believes she is of a calibur high enough to maintain herself if she travels with us into the forests. I say let them duel. If Malikai can easily dispatch the young lady, then clearly he is fit to travel on his own. Should Rosalyn be able to make short work of Malikai, she'd have proved her worth."
"That is crazy."
"I've never heard of such a thing!"
"This proves nothing."
Everyone was arguing again louder than ever except for the elf and Rosalyn. She stared at the man who's wisdom was about to grant her wish and mouthed "Thank you." to him. He made a smooth courtier's bow to her and smiled very sincerely.
"My name is Saurril Sedanan, the Silver Leaf Scout. It is my humblest pleasure to meet you, my Lady."
At this Rosalyn smiled back and even laughed a little. "A woman for some years, yes, but no proper Lady. I appreciate your formality, however ill-placed it is. So tell me, Saurril. What sort of Hideous creature crawled into your companion's porridge this morning? Or is he always this sunny and optimistic? Oh! Perhaps his unicorn blood was a bit stale, or the faery wings a tad too dry?"
Saurril laughed quiet hard at this. Most people were intimidated by Gabriell, and for this woman to be standing practically next to him saying these things..why, it was almost more than Saurril could handle. He decided then that he had made a good choice in giving her a fair chance to travel with them on their journey. If she could handle Gabriell's attitude with this much aplomb then she would do just fine. He patted her shoulder a bit and chuckled some more.
"I have seen no such things in his morning meals, fair Rosalyn. Trusting you mean Gabriell, he's an odd sort but a good and faithful companion down to the last bone. I'd trust no one more to guard my back in battle except perhaps the mighty Lady Sakura. We have traveled together for many years, Sakura, Gabriell, and I. Far too many to count. In those years I have learned that everyone has their own reasons for all that they do. Sometimes its simply better to not question them."
The voices quieted down a bit. it had seemed they had all agreed on the challenge that Saurril had set forth after all. Noon the next day Malikai and Rosalyn were to duel with only weapons, no magic allowed. The winner would decide the ultimate fate of their journey. Sakura made much fan fare over it. She went so far as to place a bet on each of the combatants. Rosalyn could very easily find out later from her contacts who the bigger bet was on. IF she was interested, of coarse. Gabriell looked as sullen as he could, which wasn't much. Rosalyn approached him slowly, fearful of attack.
"If both outcomes displease you so, why do you stay? Leave, get to your own devices if it annoys you so much."
"Because, child. Some of us have duties to uphold and keep."
"Yes, I do know quite a bit about duty." Her fingers traced over a ring she wore.
It appeared to be a simple silver band but once she upturned her palm, a signet showed. It was etched into a dark ruby. Gabriell faintly remembered seeing the Arc Mage wearing something similar. He glanced at it quickly before she closed her hand into a fist and dropped it to her side.
"You know, there are some duties that go beyond state." He said smartly
"Yes, I suppose there are some, like love. Oh, forget I said that. I've a feeling you'd know very little of that."
Gabriell laughed bitterly, sounding a bit mad "You're right, girl. I will admit that love is something I am happily unfamiliar with."
For not the first time, Rosalyn looked over this man so keen on not feeling. No one could argue that he had a nice body, most definitely honed for killing. There were various weapons strapped and looked in different places. This proved her warrior theory right, not that it was ever in question. She had the wild urge to examine what lay beyond the body. Rosalyn wanted to see what sort of man he really was, not the armored wall he'd obviously built around himself. Shaking her head to clear the notion, she changed her view to that of the wise elf now that he was finally uncloaked. If any one thing defined the elven culture through and through, it was this man. Gabriell had moved as though he was a predator stalking something. This man, this elf was indescribably fluid. He put the wind to shame. It was as though he was one with himself and all of his surroundings. His bright gold hair was impossibly long with the top half pinned back to keep it out of his eyes. There was no mistaking his clothing as aught but elven made. Simple but in very rich fabric of the highest quality and all done in earthen tones that could blend easily into the forest.
"Yes, Saurril is good looking. Single, too."
Rosalyn jumped a mile in startlement at the sound of Sakura's voice so close to her ear.
"Damn you!" She halfheartedly cursed
Gabriell was having a jolly time laughing with Malikai about her reaction. Rosalyn made a rude gesture in his direction.
"He's not my type, Sakura. I prefer someone more...hard."
A wicked smile spread across her lips at the implied use of the word.
Indeed," Gabriell stated "I suppose our fine elf is far too refined for such coarseness as you, Lady."
Rosalyn stuck her tongue out at him which she knew was childish, but it felt right. Gabriell looked mortified. He knew of two reactions to himself: fear and respect. This joking tone, the rudeness was terribly irritating to him. Emotion was not something he was accustomed to and for good reason. How these people could feel so much was beyond his level of understanding.
"So do you think you'll win? The duel?" Sakura asked, leaning on her elbows.
"Not for me to say, Lady. I've seen Malikai in the practice yard more than a few times. I'm sure it'll be an interesting fight to say the least."
At this, Sakura nodded, clearly sizing up the two competitors against each other.
"You didn't hear it from me, but, uh, I'd place my bet on the girl with the halberd. Word round town is she's got a mean right hook."
With that last comment, Rosalyn winked and headed out of the tavern to finish the business she'd started earlier.As she was walking through the town, an ill feeling took over here. Used to listening to her intuition, she stopped for a moment and extended her senses. Suddenly a hand snaked out from the darkness and covered her mouth with a cloth. Rosalyn began to feel dizzy and was seeing stars when she heard a yelp. The hand pressing the drugged cloth slipped from her mouth and she gasped for clean air. Her vision cleared for just a moment. A wide stretch of green fabric filled her vision. There was something shiny and gold on it, embroidery perhaps or a pin? She briefly wondered how much the article had cost when everything went black.
"How are you feeling?"
Clearly she had died and that beautiful voice must belong to Death. Yes, a voice like that would serve well to lure people into thinking they were safe. Rosalyn tried to sit up.
"No, I don't think that's such a good idea. You've been out for quite a few hours. Here, drink this. It will make you feel better."
A cup was pressed to her swollen lips. Weary of strange drinks, she tilted her head away. Two slender but firm fingers brought her face back forward. a hand gently cupped the back of her neck. The concoction was pressed more firmly against her lips. She took a tiny sip and sighed with relief. It tasted of honey, mint, and lavender. The liquid soothed her burning throat. She took the rest in one great big gulp. Her eyes then slowly began to open.
"There you go, there's a good girl."
The voice had indeed belonged to some form of Death. The late setting sun glared off of the fairest hair she'd ever seen. It was pure liquid gold. And those eyes...only something otherworldly could possess a shade so bright and deep.
"I hope you're feeling better, Rosalyn. You gave us quite the fright. Are you able to speak?" A feminine voice said
Looking past the golden-haired entity, she took in the second speaker. This one had giant wings that seemed to encompass the entire room. She wondered briefly why they were not black and fearsome looking. Instead, they looked almost fluffy. They reminded Rosalyn of...
"Sakura? What are you doing in the afterlife? Have you died as well? Oh...OH!" Realizing what she had just said and how stupid it sounded once it was out, Rosalyn shut her mouth.
It was not Death, only a friendly elf, who had tended her. A blush crept upon her face as she relived her first thoughts. A good thing she'd been too parched to speak upon waking. Male laughter erupted past them. It seemed that Malikai and Gabriel found nothing so humorous as her thinking herself dead. Once they came to a halt, Gabriel bowed to Saurril and took his leave.
"Yeah, laugh on, you little bug bears. I'd like to see how fast you come to when you been knocked out by one of your own."
"Wait," Saurril asked "You know who did this to you? Why didn't you say something earlier?"
"Of coarse I know. What do you take me for? No, Malikai, don't answer that. Jonin is Rafe's second in command. He's been trying to do me in for months. Seems he thinks Rafe has a thing for me these days and he's scared. Thinks I'm trying to overthrow him. Ha! I know how long the life is of those that court the Thief Lord. Not interested!!"
"You mean no one knows who you really are?" Malikai asked "This wasn't an assassination attempt? Or, at least, not a real one?"
Rosalyn rolled her eyes and shook her head slowly. Though her father held a high position at court, she was not a part of that. Though she suspected there would still be some eager for her to pass on in court. She was not well liked, if only for her lack of formality and bad habit of getting in trouble.
"You humans live such confusing lives. I don't think I could stand all the drama and turmoil," Remarked Sakura. Gabriel and Saurril gave her a look. "What? I do believe it's fairly obvious that I am in no way human, right?"
Malikai and Rosalyn shared a smile and ducked their heads. Both were far too polite to point out Sakura's several obvious deformities, if they could be called that.
"Discreation is best, good Lady." Saurril said quietly. Sakura snorted.
"So this Jonin fellow is going to kill you simply because he believes some trivial gossip about you and his master? Why would you associate with people like that? Are you trying to give your father a heart attack or do you just like the attention one gets from being constantly in danger?"
Laughter erupted from Rosalyn. A comment like this from the crown prince?
"Do you claim, dear cousin, that there are fewer vipers at the heart of court? Really, you'd think you had just been drugged nearly killed by one of your own!"
"Do you enjoy constantly having your life threatened, Rosalyn? If so, feel free to take my position. I grow terribly weary of it. That is why I must leave. At least royal assassins nearly always succeed."
"Well, the assailant is dispatched of. The girl need not fear." Gabriell had just re-entered the small tavern room.
"Dispatched off? Oh, seven hells! You didn't kill him, did you, Gabriel?!" Sakura sounded alarmed
The look on his face at her accusation was hard to describe. It was as though he tried to convey guilt but failed miserably. Were it not one of her own people he'd killed, Rosalyn would have found it mildly charming. Sure, Jonin had come at her with intoxicating drugs but had he wanted her dead, it would've been a blade between the ribs. Among rogues, death threats were a common thing but hardly carried out. Jonin had been trying to challenge her under the idea that she was trying to take his position. However...Jonin was terribly ill-tempered and a sell-out besides. She would not mourn the loss of him.
"Why, Gabriel, I do believe that could be considered chivalrous." Saurril commented with a small snicker
The frown on Gabriel's face after that comment could have scared a liche back to life, or death, depending on how you looked at it. “Its not the girl I care to protect. It’s our mission.” He spat at the elf
Rosalyn rolled her eyes and leaned back onto the bed. Were she a bit more lady-like, she might actually take some offense to that.
“Speaking of missions, there are some errands I must do before embarking on the mourn. They were so rudely interrupted before.”
Rosalyn got out of the bed and was headed out of the door for the second time that night when iron enclosed her upper arms. She nearly panicked but her reflexes kicked in. Using deft wrist motions, she swept with her halberd and brought it back around. She slammed it down hard on whatever had pinned her arm. All of this was one big blur to those watching it happened so fast.
“Wha….?” She stuttered, glancing at the floor
There was Gabriel looking very much like a mean cat someone had just doused with a bucket of water.
“Oh, Gabriel. I am so sorry. Oh, you have no idea. Here, let me help you up.”
He pushed away Rosalyn’s outstretched hand violently. With more grace than should be allowed while one was on the floor, he got up on his own accord. The entire group was silent. Whether it was out of fear or shock it was hard to say. Finally, after a few long and terribly awkward seconds, the silence was broken. A lovely, melodic laughter echoed across the small room.
“Oh ho ho, now I’ve seen it all!! The great Gabriel brought low by a skirt of a girl! Haha, there will be no living this down. At least not for a thousand years!” Saurril continued his laughing even as Gabriel stomped out of the tavern.
Rosalyn called out “I really am sorry! It was an accident!”
Sobering up, Saurril lightly touched the back of her hand.
“Never be sorry for being fast, Rosalyn. And never ever be sorry for being cautious. If I am right in guessing, and I usually am, your quick reflexes have saved your life. If I’ve not missed my mark, I’m sure it this won’t be the last time, either.”
A tiny hint of a blush crept into her tanned cheeks. She looked away and coughed from nervousness a few times. The same firm but gentle fingers she’d felt earlier lightly applied pressure on her hand once more.
“I mean it, Lady.” Unable to fathom the intensity of his gaze, she laughed rather fakely.
“There you go with that Lady nonsense again! I fear I shall have to wear a sign ‘round my neck proclaiming my status or lack thereof, really.”
A tinkling laughter sounded behind her as Sakura approached.
“I’ve been telling him that for years. I wish you the best of luck. Oh, but I suppose I should expect great things from the woman who was able to catch Gabriel off guard. I owe you a debt of gratitude for that large bit of amusement. I am retiring for the evening. Any more excitement and I shall faint, being a delicate lady and all.”
Rosalyn was wondering whom she was trying too fool. Sakura held out her arm.
“Saurril? If you’ll be as so kind as to escort me? Good night, un-Lady Rosalyn.”
A look that seemed almost wistful sped across the elf ranger’s face as he grabbed hold of Sakura’s elbow. Rosalyn half-believed it was only her imagination.
“I will return shortly, Rosalyn. It seems as though you are capable of taking care of yourself but I’d rest better seeing you to bed.”
She shook her head and glanced away, a bit embarrassed. It was an odd thing to see actual concern for her well-being.
“Thank you for the offer, but it would ruin my reputation as a Lady of upstanding rank to be seen with a strange gentleman.” They both shared a quiet laugh over this.
“As you wish, Rosalyn.” He headed out leaving a mildly amused Rosalyn.
It was not every day a man actually listened to her without arguing. She kind of liked the feeling. Her eyes followed the couple out of the door and into the darkness. She sighed a bit. Once well out of earshot, Sakura whipped Saurril around to face her with strength no human possessed.
“By the gods, Saurril, you’re fond of that human girl!! You’d better thank your lucky stars that Gabriel is far more ignorant than I am in such matters. If he’d any idea of your true feelings, he might slay her out of spite. Seven hells, he’s already half way there after her little stunt moments ago. It’s a mark of his respect for us both that her body’s not already getting cold in a gutter. Listen, friend. No good can come of this. It is a terrible thing to love a human mortal when you are not.”
When he made a sound to interrupt her, she held up her hand.
“I care for you. I am enough of a prideful woman to not count the years we’ve traveled together. You are a noble, elegant creature. She is as rough and coarse as un-carded wool. You deserve only the finest silk, my friend. Help her along, give her compliments, but by the gods do not bed her. I know you, Saurril. And I know that one small intimacy and you’ll be lost forever in a mockery of love.”
Saurril pondered the words for a brief moment and smiled shortly at the woman as he gave her a quick embrace.
“You fret too much, Sakura. I was merely going to point out that she was pretty for a rogue, noble or not.”
He patted her cheek and resumed walking her to the far better part of town where their inn was located. A small shape hidden in the shadows slipped away. Anden briefly wondered how much Rafe would pay for this knowledge. Everyone but herself and the bar maid had cleared out so Rosalyn took to walking a copper piece across her knuckles and then back again. Derry took the seat closest to her.
“You’ll have the gossip mills spinnin’ so fast, the paddle’ll fall off!” She commented to her friend
Rosalyn raised her eyebrow as she responded, “Derry, I do hope you’re speaking of our truly interesting guests and not myself. What could possibly be said of myself?”
The bar maid shook her head and smiled wide. That smile had earned her its fair share of tips.
“Only that our little Ms.Rosalyn be courtin’ danger three ways to Sunsday. And by the Gatekeeper, girl, did you see the muscles on that demon of a man?!” She gave an appreciative whistle. “How I’d like to be under a well-oiled beast like th…”
A small cough interrupted her. Anden approached the two women and took a seat at the table next to theirs. Derry gave him a important look as she went to go get some watered down wine for him.
“Do ya suppose he fancies women or men?” She whispered to Rosalyn upon her return
“Don’t hold your breath, my dearest Derry. It is in my professional opinion that Gabriel fancies himself and only himself. Anden, what do you have there? If you’re supposed to be making a delivery and you’re cooling your heels in a tavern, Rafe will be furious.”
Anden bowed his head a bit “I am on a delivery, but this is my destination. That tall, elf-y gentleman paid me a whole two gold to make sure I brought you a travelin’ pack. I bit it and everything. Don’t tell Rafe. I ain’t ever able to make any money myself.”
Rosalyn smiled with indulgence and ruffled the young boy’s hair. She inspected the pack thoroughly and found it very much to her taste. Even the traveling clothing was in her size. Gods above knew how much it cost to ensure everything would fit in a few hours. She felt sorry for the responsible seamstress. Gabriel had probably loomed over her like some sort of night ghast the entire time.
“Lady? I know it isn’t common, but I saw it and I had some leftover from what the packs cost and the merchant offered me a deal..”
Rosalyn moved to slap him for spending money that wasn’t his when she saw what lay in his hands. He lifted up his outstretched arm, shaking just a bit. About the size of a robin’s egg, it was a small pin in the shape of a lily. It looked to be pure white but upon closer inspection, the petals were made out of crushed pearls and pure diamonds. The silver-looking inlay was actually pure platinum.
“How…how much did you pay for this?” She asked.
“Only seven coppers, Lady. I’ve seen pins similar to this on nobles and in the Shiny district. They usually go for ten gold or so. I figured it was a cheap enamel pin. Merchant said it was good for protection. I just thought it was pretty.”
“Sev..seven, seven copper?” Derry stuttered, eyeing it greedily
“Yes ma’am. That’s why I bought it.”
“Must be cursed.” Rosalyn said with a smile as she handed it back to him.
“No, Lady. Flier looked at it. She ain’t the best, but if there was bad magics in it, she woulda seen ‘um.”
Flier was one of the few rogues with some form of magic or another. She was only 14, but she could tell if something had been cursed or poisoned.
“I bought it for you. I don’t know much, but I do know this flower is a lily. They are very hard to kill and come back every year, kinda like weeds, but prettier. Made me think of you.” He blushed even brighter
“Well, many thanks, Anden. I will cherish it.”
Rosalyn pinned it above her left breast with a sweet smile. She was absolutely convinced that the boy had either nicked it, someone had paid him to posin it, or it really was cursed. The boy bowed low and hurried off, too embarrassed to bid either woman a proper farewell. Derry giggled a bit.
“That boy is so taken with you! Give him a year or five, Ros. You’ll see.”
Shaking her head good-naturedly, Rosalyn let her thoughts drift for a moment. An errand boy would just not do for her, no matter how noble his intentions or how affectionate his gestures. She needed something more, something to light a fire in her soul. She thought of Gabriel. Now there, there was a man a woman could bash and bash her heart against until it was naught but dust. She wondered how many women he’d had and how many dreams he’d destroyed in his wake. Then she surprisingly thought of Saurril. He was the type that a woman like Derry dreamt of, all elegance and romance. Rosalyn came to only to find a lightly snoring Derry.
“Girl, your pa would take the whip to you, watching you fall asleep on the job. Who’s to serve all these fine patrons?” She gestured grandly at the very empty room
“Rosalyn, you’re sillier than a goose!” Derry swatted at her with a towel
With a mocking bow, Rosalyn made her leave just as two gentlemen walked in. She made her way back into the castle just before the sun kissed the horizon. Unbeknownst to her, Gabriel followed her every step of the way. When she at last made it to her bed chambers, he left. The entire time his hand never left his kusuri-gama. It would be almost too easy to take her out like this. Besides, Saurril and Sakura might be upset if they found out. After watching the rude human girl climb the stone steps, he made his way down to the orchard. Lying down among the blossoms, he gazed at the few lingering stars and fell asleep counting them. Sometime after sunrise, the prince awoke with a terrible hangover. When he went to grab his clothes from the floor, he realized something warm was pressed against him. It moved a bit. He jumped up, attempting to grab his sword from the pile of his belongings. It took a moment but eventually he got it free. He pointed it crookedly at the sheets.
“Well, if you insist on using your sword, I think you should put that one down and pick up your other one.” A wicked grin spread across the speaker’s face.
A pretty blonde woman in her twenties sat up and was blatantly staring at Malikai’s obvious nudity. She was nude as well, though waves of golden hair gave her the smallest bit of modesty. Her ears had an almost unnoticeable point to them.
“Did we…?” He asked, looking shame faced
The woman nodded and smiled wider.
“Oh. Well, was it…acceptable? I mean, were you pleased?”
“Several times, my lord.”
“Oh. Well that’s good then. I’m sorry that I cannot seem to recall exactly what occurred.”
“Oh, you will. Trust me.” She winked at him with dramatically lined eyes and went to collect her clothing.
Malikai thought back to the night before. His duel!!! It wa sless than an hour’s time away. How could he have forgotten? Well, if that blonde-haired beauty had been involved, then it was acceptable. He raced to dress and equip himself. Malikai grabbed an apple and chunk of hard cheese on his way out and went to get his mount. While he’d been getting ready, Rosalyn paced over and over. Her dreams had been an odd sort. Probably from fretting over the duel.
“Are you alright, Rosalyn?” Saurril put a comforting hand on her shoulder
“Quite,” She answered smiling very convincingly
“You could always back out, you know, in case you realized you aren’t up to it.” This snideness was from Gabriel
Rosalyn made a gesture so rude, women were not supposed to know of it let alone what it actually stood for. That look of bewilderment crossed Gabriel’s face again. He thought her insane to not be terrified of him. Saurril was whistling merrily at one of the tables in the tavern. He’d taken to playing a game of chess with himself.
“Who’s winning?” Asked Sakura with amusement
“You know…I have no idea, Sakura. I’ll let you know when I figure it out.”
Sakura considered laughing until she saw the look on his face. He was being completely serious. She wondered briefly if maybe he was starting to go a bit wonky. He had been having a hard time adventuring these past few years. Mayhap he needed a break if he was playing chess with himself, unsure of the winner.
“I’m not going crazy, Sakura. Stop looking at me like that. It’s mildly offending.”
The Lady developed a sudden interest in the scuff marks on her worn boots. She remarked to no one in particular: “Remind me to acquire a new pair of boots after the duel.”
“Speaking of which,” Gabriel interrupted “I do not believe it but it seems the Prince is the one to develop cold feet.”
Mere seconds later, said Prince slid into the tavern still latching his sword belt. Once it was properly secured he placed his hands on his hips and smiled brightly.
“I….have…arrived!” He was a bit out of breath
“Yes,” started Rosalyn “Late. You forfeit. I win. Well, that was the easiest duel I’ve been in by far.”
Malikai’s response was to lunge at her with his unsheathed sword. Rosalyn barely had enough time to dodge the bare blade. She quickly kicked a chair out of the way and spun her weapon in one hand. She used the other to muffle a big yawn.
“Was that all? Really…”
He lunged again and she turned, bringing the handle of the weapon down on his now exposed shoulder. He winced but swung again. This time the blade hit it’s target. It sliced a gash down her side but missed anything vital. She pressed down quickly to keep from bleeding too much. Then Rosalyn swung her blade at his left side. Just as he went to block the attack, she switched directions and managed to hit his right side. His armor took the blunt of the blow but he made a terrible sound. It was as though someone had the air knocked out of them. Rosalyn gave a grim smile and quickly moved in. She did a sweep attack, knocking Malikai to the ground. As she went in for the final strike, he parried it last second. Jumping to his feet, he brushed off his tunic. He then took his warrior’s stance.
“You hit like a girl.” He spat
Several pieces of her hair had come out of her neat braid. She quickly tucked these behind her ear. Attempting to take advantage of this small distraction, Malikai made several quick blows and ended his spree with a wide arc aimed to remove an arm. Not to be outdone, Rosalyn parried most of the quick strikes. When he went to literally disarm her, she caught his blade in the corner of hers and twisted hard. The sword flew out of it’s owner’s hand. She whipped her halberd around and knocked him down again. The pole arm rose above her head as she brought it down on him. Last minute he kicked her in the knee. It didn’t bring her down, but it made her stumble. Another kick disarmed her as well.
“So…” she said coughing “Its to be dirty tricks then? Good thing I’m a professional at being dirty.”
She grabbed his wrist and yanked it hard behind his back making him kneel. Her arm slipped around his neck as she began to increase pressure. He swung his own arm behind him and the metal in his armor connect squarely with Rosalyn’s cheek, cutting it open. He slid out from her hold and reversed it on her. After several moments, Saurril was about to call the fight. Just then, Rosalyn began to shakily get up on her legs with Malikai still attached. She wobbled a few steps before her legs stood straight. She took a big breath even though she was strained. Rosalyn then dropped all of her weight. The fall completely knocked the air out of Malikai. Rosalyn reached the two feet to grab her misplaced halberd and swing it around. She rested it at the Prince’s neck.
“I yield!” he choked out
The tavern erupted in cheers. Apparently they had amassed quite the crowd while fighting. Rosalyn looked down, attempting to hide her face. It would not sit well with certain people if she was seen beating the snot out of the crown Prince in a shady tavern. Among the crowd one voice stood out as the loudest by far. Sakura pushed her way through everyone. She grabbed Rosalyn in a tight hug. Just before Rosalyn started to suffocate, a soothing sensation washed over her. All the scraps and cuts on her body stopped stinging and her side stopped dripping blood. Rosalyn sighed happily as she released her pain to the healing magic.
"You, my dear, just won me a thousand gold! Let me take you out to a nice dinner and boot shopping, too!"
Rosalyn smiled. So Lady Sakura had placed the bigger bet on her after all.
"Ohhh, Gabriel's gonna be broke after this! Stupid man, betting against me like that. I'm never wrong."
"You mean Gabriel bet you a thousand gold that I would lose?"
"Well, it was five hundred that you'd lose and another five that you'd be killed. Don't be a poor sport, Rosalyn. You won fair and square. Rejoice."
"Alright, I guess I will. Thank you for healing me, by the way. I was starting to get woozy."
"Don't be silly. I don't heal unless I absolutely have to. If you want to be thanking someone, start there." Sakura pointed behind Rosalyn
Rosalyn's eyes met a pair of light green ones.
"Saurril?" She whispered
He was staring directly at her with a sheepish expression on his smooth face. He noticed her staring back at him and gave a slight smile. He made a move to approach her.
"Sakura tells me I've you to thank for my healing," Rosalyn said quietly, trying not to stare anymore "You have my gratitude, Saurril. Is there aught I might do to repay you?"
He shook his head a bit. A thought suddenly occurred to Rosalyn.
"Tell me, Saurril...do you bet?"
He smiled a bit wider and shook his head a little more.
" 'Fraid I don't. Betting is never a sure thing and I would not ever risk my money on something I'm unsure of. I can see the excitement in it, though. I understand why others partake. Why do you ask?'
"Because you happen to be the only one in the room who is neither cheering nor pouting. That means you must've not lost..or gained anything."
"I would not say that. I gained a great deal from watching your duel. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to collect on a bet."
The elf walked past without so much as a glance back. Had he, he would've seen a throughly stunned Rosalyn. Though she hadn't even been sure she would win, Saurril had the utmost faith in her ability to defend herself. The thought was a warm one. Her eyes followed the disappearing elf as he faded into the large crowd.
"If you're quite done with your theatrics, we'll be heading out now." Gabriel hissed at her
She shrugged and headed out of the tavern, receiving quite a few pats and congratulations on the way. It was hardly past noon and the tavern was already full. Rosalyn was happy she'd not be here in the evening with all those villagers roaring drunk. The adventurers stood together with a very sullen looking Prince.
"We'll not be taking horses," Sakura said "Do you have your things?'
Rosalyn gave her bag by the entrance a light kick that sent up a spiral cloud of dust.
"I've been ready since sundown yesterday."
Sakura nodded and began to travel down the road. The men followed her with Rosalyn bringing up the rear. She glanced back at everything one last time before they got to the gate barring the town from the rest of the world. The next time they all saw these walls, they'd be different. Rosalyn would be someone who had proved her worth with more than just birth right. Paris, just ahead of her, was deep in thought as well. Finally, freedom, he thought. No more stupid obligations or duties. There was nothing now to get in the way except maybe the pesky rogue Rosalyn. In truth, he was happy a small bit she was along. Though they never got along, they'd both come from unhappy families with too many ancient traditions to allow them to live their own lives. Plus, Rosalyn was a decent fighter. If he remembered correctly, she also had some magic. She could throw fire and grow things. All in all, she seemed a pretty useful companion..as long as she didn't whine too much.
"Halt, travelers! Where is it you are headed?" A guard questioned them
Saurril stepped forward "We merely seek to practice our skills in the wilds. We want to become more experienced in the ways of life and combat."
The guard thought upon this for a moment. Shortly after, he opened the doors of the gate with a blank smile. Sakura waved as they walked under the bars of the gate. The guard waved back and smiled again.
"You didn't need to influence him, my Lady." Rosalyn said quietly
"Nonsense, he was beginning to recognize the Prince. I had to do something. It was either charm him or eat him. And one simply does not consume figures of power or authority. I am surprised you noticed. I realize that you've magic, but I didn't know it was the type to detect other magics." She peered back at the other woman curiously.
"It's not. I just had a feeling." Answered Rosalyn
"Ooooh! What a beautiful pin! It must have cost a fortune, which is rather unfortunate as it has hardly any gems in it."
The woman came closer and sniffed the pin much like a hunting hound picking up a scent. Rosalyn raised her eyebrow and took a step back.
"It is crushed pearl with a thin layer of diamond on top of it almost like a window. That makes no sense. Why would anyone crush up a perfectly good pearl? And then wreck a diamond by cutting it into such a senseless shape? Hmph."
Rosalyn chuckled a bit. Sakura could not be plainer about her origins than if she had it painted on her face.
"Ladies? If you're quite done discussing fashion? Keep your eyes forward. We're not in the city anymore. There are things out here far more dangerous than cut purses and street walkers." Scolded Gabriel
Sakura rolled her eyes and faced forward. She seemed to be scanning the tree line. Rosalyn just stuck out her tongue. Gabriel frowned at her hard enough to make wrinkles in his flawless face.
"That is very rude and unbecoming of a Lady. But I suppose its to be expected from the likes of you." He informed her
"Oh, I'll show you unbecoming..." Muttered Rosalyn under her breath
"I thought it was funny." Saurril commented
He shared a smile with Rosalyn as they all returned to the path at a steady pace. They made good time and found a very nice spot to rest for the night. A handful of trees made a small glade next to the river they were following. Saurril made an offer to hunt for their evening meal to save rations. Rosalyn asked to accompany him, hoping to learn the very necessary skill. It took a few moments but eventually they located a decent sized doe and buck traveling together. The elf gently placed the bow in Rosalyn's hand and assisted her in pulling it back. His finger aimed the arrow's point at their target. His breath lightly tickled the hair on the back of her neck.
"Now," he whispered so quietly she felt it more than she heard it
Her fingers let loose the arrow from that taut string. It sped through the trees to hit its target with a loud thump. The doe startled and took off. The buck went down to his knees then fell over. Rosalyn turned to share congratulations with the elf when the tip of her nose met his. Those spring-colored eyes met hers for a moment and she stopped thinking. A cracking of a branch underfoot brought both of their heads forward as they jumped apart like a pair of scared rabbits. Apparently they had not been the only ones hunting. A rather large wolf was headed towards the downed buck. Saurril notched another arrow and took aim but Rosalyn stayed his shot by putting her hand on his shoulder and shaking her head. She took a step forward and the wolf picked up its head. It bared its fangs at the approaching woman. Saurril grabbed her shirt but she swatted his hand away. Continuing towards the beast, she made a few low howls and a sharp bark. The wolf tilted its head in a quizzical expression. Rosalyn howled again, longer this time, and gestured to where Saurril was. The big grey wolf picked its head up and sniffed a few times. It growled once and took off swiftly through the trees, hardly stirring the leaves.
"C'mon!" She called out to the elf, "He won't be bothering us again but its only a matter of time before something else finds this. Here, help me drag it back to camp."
He smiled very broadly at this surprising woman.
"Of coarse. You should have told me you could speak to animals. I'm not saying I approve of you trying to convince an enormous wolf to step away from a free kill, though..."
"Oh, he wasn't that big."
Saurril laughed as he went to strip the deer. He was sure to leave some for the dwellers of the forest. They were too far away from their campsite to worry about attracting animal attention.
"I only know how to speak with wolves. My father taught me. We used to sit on the castle wall with the guards every night. Well, we used to until I decided that I would rather be a fighter than a mage like him."
"I can understand his concerns for you, Lady. A fighter has a much higher chance of injury than a mage, and even less of a achance of coming back every time the adventure, They live a much harder and less productive life. Do not get me wrong, though. Both are noble paths with their own gifts."
"His opinion has nothing to do with my safety and everything to do with my gender, Saurril."
"And so to prove you are capable of handling anything, regardless of gender, you choose to rush around the streets with thieves and assassins for your company? I do not understand this."
"Its cuz you're an elf," she said and reached for the hind legs of the now-gutted deer. Saurill took the front two and they headed back to camp. When they arrived, Gabriel looked thrilled at the sight of fresh venison. Well, at least as thrilled as Gabriel could look. Sakura declined the meat, claiming she'd had her fill of river fish while Saurril and Rosalyn were gone.
"Oh. I didn't realize you stopped to pick up hook and line while we were in town," Saurril commented off-handedly
"I didn't." She stated simply
He left it at that and began to put chunks of meat on a make shift spit to cook it. The aroma spun its way through the air, making everyone hungry. Handing over the remaining cooking duties to Sakura, Saurril pulled a small flute made from wood out of his pack. He began to play a soft tune that very much reminded Rosalyn of the sound of wind whistling through tall meadow grasses. Malikai took the tune up by beating lightly on one of the cooking pans not in use. He actually smiled once he caught the tune.
I will not bow, I will not break, but I will kill that which stands in my way"I would lay down my life for those few I love. Everyone else can fairy off."
