The Lost Child IC {M}

[BumblingBee]

The Winking Dragon was a tavern of dubious reputation, to say the least. It was frequented by bandits, thugs, thieves, rouges and various women of the night. The owner was a rough tough land lady with a no nonsense attitude. The whole place in a word was effectively, Brutal.

Not the place a Lady of high standards should be at all. Yet still this is whrere Iona had ended up yet again. She had been ever so rudely dumped there by a travelling merchant. The owner needing some help had 'kindly' hired her as a barmaid. Between the endless teasing and bum oinching she managed to make a decent enough amount of coin. Still she longed for her freedom once more though. The chance to lead a better life.

The most frustrating thing is she knew how to do all of this. Iona simply didn't have the experience, coin or ... how should I put this ... 'Brawn'. Many a time had she tried to hire someone to escort her but all either declined or ended up leaving her in the middle of nowhere.

Iona sighed and slumped down into the stool behind the bar. Her head was resting on her hand and a look of complete and utter bordom was plastered firmly on her face. Afternoons were always quiet, to begin with. Something usually hppened soon enough though.

[Crazywolf]

Kit's dark eyes scoured the streets of the town looking for the nearest tavern. He had been travelling since dawn and the dust from the road had left him with a dry throat and in desperate need of refreshment. It still felt strange being back in Avoria after all these years, not that the kingdom had really changed much. His eyes fell upon The Winking Dragon. From the outside it looked fairly rough and dubious but it would just have to do. Truth be told he seen and been in worse.

With the matter decided he marched up to the tavern door and pushed it open. The inside was just as rough as he had imagined it would be. At this time of day it seemed the tap room was fairly empty of customers. Behind the bar was a surprisingly well-dressed young barmaid. Casually he walked up to the bar. "Pint of your best ale miss" he said.

[BumblingBee]

Iona groaned in an over the top mannor, lugging herself away from her stool she grabbed a tankard clumsily and set to work at the taps. Madame Hoosh had odered her to try and make wealthy lookimg patrons feel welcome. So in the most dull boring tone she could muster Iona blanantly asked
"So what brings you to town stranger? Whores? Rest? ... both?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit could tell from her tone she didn't really care about the answers. "Just passing through miss" he replied. "Thought I might visit the local lord and offer my services, that is to say offer the services of my sword."

How did a well dressed girl like her end up working in a place like this he wondered.

[BumblingBee]

"Oh wow, how facinating, truly"
Iona slid his tankard of ale across the bar towards him before slumping down into her stool once more.

Suddenly the door to the inn burst open. Iona flinched at the sound, even working at the inn for a few days made her familiar with the distinct sounds of all the regular patrons. And this one she knew all to well. Ever so slightly, she ducked behind the counter a little.

A great brute of a man came lumbering into the inn. His breath reeked of ale and his stance was dizzy an wobbly. He staggered over to the bar almost careening over its side. A disgusting grin spread across his face when he saw Iona. She did not look happy.
"Hello darling"
"Piss off"
"Aw come on now"
He clucked her chin, his face inching dangerously close
"I know what ou really are, you're just proud is all"
His eyes wandered over her form lustily
"But that's okay, I like it in a woman"

Iona was disgusted, without a seconds hesitation she slapped him across the cheek harshly. Through suprise more than anything the brute fell backwards onto his back. A angry growl resinated from the floor. Iona stood up straight and peered over the counter. She quickly leapt back against the wall as the brute jumped forwards agressively moving towards Iona.

[Crazywolf]

Kit stared at the man in disgust. He felt fairly confident that he could take him in a fair fight. But then why fight fair when you didn't need to? As the man moved toward Iona he deftly swooped up a bar-stool and brought it crashing down on the back of the man's head. The brute dropped to the floor like a sack of potatoes. Watching him fall Kit gave a little smirk of satisfaction.

He turned to Iona and gave her a polite smile. "I hope your okay miss" he said. "Maybe you should think about getting some added security for this place."

[BumblingBee]

Iona folded her arm and spat on the floor, a firm pout was planted on her face.
"I hate this place, I'd burn it all the hell if I could believe me"
Her eyes turned to face the stranger, an eyebrow raised ever so slightly
"You seem like you can handle yourself pretty well"
She smirked smugly and outstretched a hand to the stranger
"Are you for hire stranger?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit looked at Iona in surprise as she held out her hand. "Yes I am for hire, for the right price. But protecting taverns is not really my line of work. No offense intended."

[BumblingBee]

Something suddenly lit up in Iona's eyes. She smiled eagerly and leant forward on the bar.
"I'm not talking about this blasted place, I'm talking about me"
She folded her arms across her chest and looked at the stranger expectantly
"Would you ... 'Escort' me to the capital? Well ... Near the capital anyways"
She narrowed her eyes and crossed her fingers unseen behind her back
"I've got the coin"t

[Crazywolf]

Kit frowned and considered it. "Well it's a bit out of my way, but if you've got the coin then sure why not. Are you umm talking about going right now?"

He wondered why this tavern wench was so keen to reach the capital but figured one question at a time, besides it wasn't his place to pry into her private concerns.

[BumblingBee]

Iona nodded happily as she bounced from foot to foot. Finally it seemed she found someone who was actually interested in getting her there.
"I need to get there as soon as possible"

Iona suddenly ducked down behind the bar, she rummaged amidst the shelves until her hand brushed against parchment
"Aha!"
She pulled out a very old worn looking map. However old it was the map still remained incredibly beautiful and rich in detail. The paper was a deep amber edged with gold and hand written with ruby ink. For a moment Iona simply brushed her hand across its surface lovingly, soon enough her mind snapped back to reLity. She gave her head a little shake.
"Right"
She pointed saintly to a blood red x marked a few miles south if the capital
"Here exactly to be precise, think you can do it?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit studied the map admiring the quality. He wondered how a common barmaid had come into possession of such a fine object. "Sure miss, if that's where you want to go" he replied. Privately he wondered why she was in such a big hurry to go there but he held his tongue. Instead he smiled and extended a hand. "The name's Kit."

[BumblingBee]

"Iona"
She shook his hand briskly before grabbing a satchel from behind the counter.
"Right come on then, I'm not gonna escort myself am I?"
And with that said she strode briskly out the door before pausing to wait for Kit. She gave him that same smug looking smirk as her fingers drummed impatiently on her arm.

[Crazywolf]

"Woah hold on a second" Kit replied. Man this girl really was in a hurry. Grabbing the tankard of ale she just poured him he raised it to his lips and then emptied it in one go. Immediately he felt refreshed and reinvigorated. Ah much better he thought to himself.

Setting the empty tankard down on the counter he wandered over toward the door. "Well miss" he said "you just hired the finest swordsman in all of Avoria. I can promise you won't regret it." With that he followed her out the door. Just looking at her he had a feeling that this trip was going to be rather interesting.

[BumblingBee]

Iona set off at a brisk pace. She felt rather happy for once. The wind was in her hair, a spring in her step, and the warm feeling of sun on her skin. Not only that but she was finally on her way to reclaim what was finally hers by right. Iona could've skipped down the road. But that certainly wouldn't look very professional. And she didn't want to embaress herself in front of this Kit fellow.

She took a quick sideways glance at him as they walked. He seemed nice ... enough. She wouldn't want to get on his bad side though. That sword looked quite powerful. Absent mindedly, she rubbed her fingers together behind her back as she thought, at first grey slithers of smoke appeared. However the smoke grew soon enough into a small flame. It was only when Iona smelt the smoke herself that she abruptly stopped. If she was lucky Kit wouldn't have noticed.

[Crazywolf]

Kit walked along beside her lost for a moment in his own thought. He was surprised when she abruptly stopped. "What's the matter?" he asked her. Then suddenly he caught the scent of something in his nostrils which caused him to frown. "Hey wait can you smell smoke?"

[BumblingBee]

"NO!"
Iona rushed forward suddenly, brow furrowed and a frown planted on her face.
"It's probably just something on the wind"
She desperately patted her hands behind her back, trying to put out the remaining wisps of smoke.

[Crazywolf]

"Err yeah I guess so" Kit replied, feeling slightly puzzled by her reaction. Shrugging to himself he set off after her and finally managing to catch up again. For a few moments he just walked along beside her in silence still feeling a bit confused by her behaviour.

"Errr so..." he asked casually "what's this place where we're going? What's so special about it?"

[BumblingBee]

Iona's eyes widened. Crap, she couldn't tell him. Hell he could be anybody, a assassin sent by the King perhaps.
"Oh it's nowhere really"
She raked her mind for ideas, luckily one soon bloomed.
"I have some family there that's all"

She sighed as she looked at the approaching forrests. They looked rather forboding. Who knew what dwelt within? Goblins, Pixies, perhaps even hobbes? Maybe even all three! Iona shuddered slightly at the thought.

[Crazywolf]

Kit nodded, satisfied with the reply. He looked ahead at the approaching forest and wondered if there were any outlaws lurking about. Well he didn't have much for them to steal besides his sword, his coin purse was almost empty. He also wondered where they would spend the night. How far it was to the next village he didn't know.

He glanced across at Iona wondering what they could talk about to pass the time. "So, how long have you been a barmaid?" he asked. "And how did a nice girl like you end up working in such a rough place as that?"

[BumblingBee]

Iona looked down eyes narrowing
"Too long..."
Her ears suddenly perked up. She stopped walking and stared at Kit, almost in disbelief
"Nice girl?"
Disbelief quickly turned to anger.
"I seriously hope you don't think I'm just some poor unfortunate damsel who needed a man to drag her across country! Neither am I some sleazy bar whore! Why does everyone feel they can just make assumptions about me anyway!"

She waved her arms about in detail her point more as she continued to ramble angrily on. The anger had orginally been directed at poor Kit but had now seemed to veer off course and aim at insulting everyone in Avoria. Such is the way of a flame, they burn the brightest.

[Crazywolf]

Kit felt his temper rising. Who the hell was she to talk to him like this? He turned towards her, feet apart hands on hips.

"Listen sweetheart" he replied "I really don't care who you are. And if you don't think that you need my help you can just..."

WRAAAGGGHHH!!!!! He was abruptly cut off by a loud piercing wail that came from the trees just ahead of them. It sounded like some type of ferocious wild beast. Instinctively he pulled out his sword and turned to face the noise, alert for any sign of attack. He wondered what the heck they could be dealing with...

[BumblingBee]

Ionas eyes instantly scanned the treeline for any sign of a enemy. If there was something out there she didn't just want to stand back like a weakling. However she didn't feel safe revealing her power just yet. A thought suddenly struck her. She ran against Kit, standing back to back with him. The gesture should seem normal enough, yet it would keep her hidden from Kits view.

Flames flickered in her hands instantly. She smirked and glanced over her shoulder
"What do you think we're up against here?"

[Crazywolf]

"I don't know" he replied. "All I know is that these remote forests can contain all kinds of dangerous creatures."

"WRAAAGGHH!"

The loud wail came yet again. Kit felt the sound cut right through him sending a shiver down his spine.

For a few moments that felt like minutes he just stood waiting with trepidation for some monstrous beast to come bounding toward them, but nothing came. Finally he started to get impatient. He turned to Iona. "We can't wait here forever" he said grimly. "This is the only path through the forest. Whatever that thing is we'll just have to go and face it."

[BumblingBee]

Iona quickly hid her hands behind hr back. She smiled eagerly at his remark
"Fair enough!"
With that said she strode forward briskly

[Crazywolf]

"Hey wait, we need to go cautiously!" Was this girl crazy? Still holding the drawn sword Kit hurried after her.

They advanced forward towards the spot where the sound had come from. Kit could feel his heart beating quickly. The track was narrow and the creature couldn't be more than a few yards ahead of them, just round the next curve..

They rounded the curve in the path and then Kit just stopped and stared in disbelief. Standing in the middle of the pathway in front of them was a small round furry creature no bigger than a cabbage and it was trembling with fear.

http://img2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20080802150413/fightingfantasy/images/7/79/JibJibSor4.jpg

[BumblingBee]

Iona had been happily looking around her curiously as they followd the track. She suddenly paused upon seeing the creature. For a moment or two she blinked, then ... she blinked some more. Her scream would have easily awoken every living thing in Avoria never mind the surrounding woods.

Iona practically flung herself at Kit, hiding like a child behind him. She was shaking madly and barely managed to say
"Wha ... what is that ... that THING?!"

[Crazywolf]

Kit glanced back at her baffled by her behaviour. How on earth could anyone be scared of something so tiny he wondered. "I've got no idea" he replied, now feeling slightly embarrassed by his earlier fear. "But it's obviously completely harmless, apart from the very large vocal chords."

As they watched the creature hobbled away towards the side of the path.

Kit gave a sigh. "Come on" he said, "let's keep moving."

[BumblingBee]

Iona eventually distangled herself from Kit. She fumbled awkwardly, clutching her arms to he chest.
"Ohhhh"
Her face softened in the slightest hint of fear
"I don't like small things"
She frowned
"Big things I can handle easily, but tiny little creatures..."
She shuddered at the very thought

[Crazywolf]

Not knowing quite what to say in reply Kit just nodded at her vacantly. He also returned his sword to it's sheath on his back.

"Well it's out of our way now" he said. "Let's just move on."

[BumblingBee]

Iona clutched at her arms as she walked forwards, a bit more cautiously this time
"Alright"
She glanced up at the sky and the already setting sun
"We won't make it through before nightfall you know"
She frowned slightly, pouting
"Where exactly do you plan on making base?"

[Crazywolf]

"Under a tree I guess" Kit replied. "But we'll carry on as far as we can before it gets dark." As he spoke he led her onward along the track passing through the trees. As they went along he kept out a watchful eye knowing that next time they might meet something more serious. Eventually after another couple of hours the sun disappeared completely behind the trees leaving nothing but grey twilight.

"Well I guess we'd better stop here" Kit replied. Stepping off the path he threw himself down beneath the boughs of a tall tree. He wished then he'd stopped in the town to refill his water flask but they had left so quickly, and since then there hadn't been any streams. He also felt hungry.

"I don't suppose you brought any food?" he asked.

[BumblingBee]

Iona thought for a second. She took a glance at the map and frowned, they had a awfully long way to go. They'd be spending a lot of time together. She sighed and haltered the map in her belt once more. Iona decided to ease Kit into her magic slowly. The less he knew the safer she was.

She decided to start of simply. Iona placed her satchel down on the floor and flipped the lid open.
"Hold on a sec"
Iona placed her arm within the bag lowering in deeper and deeper inside. She rummaged nd fumbled until her hand finally found what it was looking for
"Aha!"
Her arm returned with a few bundles of food. She smiled happily and plonked herself down next to Kit. Iona couldn't help but smirk
"Never seen a Deneri Satchel before?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit's eyes widened in surprise as her arm disappeared inside the bag. Rather warily he took the offered bundle of food, though as she sat down he edged slightly away from her.

"Well you might have told me that you were a witch" he said to her. As he spoke he eyed her suspiciously wondering if she might suddenly try and use a love spell on him or something crazy like that.

[BumblingBee]

Iona frowned. She mumbled to herself sourly as she looked down at her own food
"You don't have to make it sound so ... Dramatic ..."
She picked out her food for a while as a awkward silence settled upon the small clearing.

Iona took a quick glance at Kit. She could have sworn he was sitting father away, the slight suspicion on his face confirmed her own. She tutted as she suddenly stood up
"Oh for heavens sake"
She placed her hands on her hips and looked down at him
"Would you like me to go and sit over there? Would that ease your fears anymore?"
She scoffed and folded her arms
"You know for a big brave warrior your awfully cautious just about little me"

[Crazywolf]

"Hmmmph. Well don't I have a right to be cautious?" he replied. "Witches don't always have the best reputation you know. How do I know you won't cast your spells on me the moment I fall asleep? I don't want to wake up turned into a newt."

[BumblingBee]

Iona (as usual) pouted
"Well for a start, I wouldn't choose a newt. Frogs are much more poetic"
She frowned rather fiercely as she continued
"And secondly, if I wanted to ensnare you or harm you..."
She smiled slightly
"You'd already be dead"

With that said she trotted over to a tree and plonked herself down in front of it so she was Facing Kit directly. Arms folded and face frowning.

[Crazywolf]

Kit looked across at her, not knowing quite know how to respond. The fact she could do spells and weird stuff like that still unsettled him a bit. "Well fine" he said. "Just you stay over there and I'll stay over here. That way there won't be any misunderstandings."

He held up the food she had given him, eyed it suspiciously for a moment, then started eating. As he ate he kept glancing furtively over towards her to make sure she hadn't moved.

[BumblingBee]

Iona wasn't particularly happy at that moment in time. So she decided to do somethig about it, and have some fun. Purposefully she looked at Kit and his food, a quizical expression upon her face. Suddenly she gasped, hands clutching her face. Iona dashed forwards worriedly and began rooting in her bag.

She pulled out what seemed to be countless magical objects, all looking delicate yet dangerous (A little like their owner). Iona looked at Kit once more, worry clear on her face
"I did give you the food in the green bundle, right?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit's looked at the food then looked her, his eyes narrowed with suspicion. "Is this some type of trick?" he asked.

(sorry for the short post, just wanna play this out)

[BumblingBee]

"No it is not!"
Iona rushed over and grabbed the food from him. She picked through it eyes scanning its contents in a mad blur. Suddenly she threw the food into the fire. It crackled and burned with a satisfying swoosh. Iona smiled proudly and wiped her brow
"Phew, that was close"
She faced Kit
"You almost just ate Popiwack, it would have made you fall head over heels in love with the next person you saw"
She sauntered back to her own spot
"It's a very useful herb, trust me"
Once again she sat down with a satisfying plonk and tucked in to her own food.

[Crazywolf]

Kit blanched slightly and swallowed. "Umm yes I imagine it would be. I guess it's just lucky you realised before it was too late. That could have been very embarrassing."

For a moment he sat there quietly. He still felt slightly wary towards her. This magic thing was quite new to him and would need some getting used to.

"Well I guess we should both get some sleep" he remarked. With a tired yawn he stretched himself out and laid down to rest.

[BumblingBee]

Iona laid down neatly at the foot of the tree. With a smirk smug still plastered in her face she whispered
"Sure ... Go ahead and sleep ... If you want to risk it"
She giggled silently before falling into a contented sleep

[Crazywolf]

Kit flinched slightly even though he knew she was just trying to get inside his head. Clearly this trip was going to be a challenging one. Rolling over he shut his eyes and tried to fall asleep.

[BumblingBee]

Iona awoke with the dawn of the following morning. She got herself ready rather quickly before turning to face Kit. She frowned. He was still aslep, and they needed to get moving. Iona strode over to him arms folded across her chest. She looked down at him and tutted
"Hey, you"
She gave him a light kick
"Hey!"
The kick got a little harder

[Crazywolf]

"What? What's happening?" Kit awoke with a start and immediately reached for the sword beside him. He instantly looked round for any sign of enemies but saw none. "Whatcha do that for?" he grumbled.

[BumblingBee]

Iona rolled her eyes
"Becasue we need to get moving that's why"
She tutted and pointed at his own equipment
"C'mon, Hup hup hup!"
She walked over to a tree and leaned against it impatiently
"I didn't hire you to sleep the morning away"

[Crazywolf]

Kit sighed with disbelief. She really was the most impossible woman he'd ever met. "Look miss, lets get things clear, I do things on my own time okay." Begrudgingly he hauled himself up onto his feet. Taking his sword and sheath he slung them over his back. There wasn't much else to collect, aside from the sword he travelled pretty light. Ready to continue he looked across at Iona. He realised that the situation between them was still a bit awkward. "Look, about last night, I'm sorry ok. I probably just freaked out a bit. Magic is not something I'm really used to."

[BumblingBee]

Iona raised an eyebrow
"A bit?"
She sighed and began to walk ahead
"It's alright ... I suppose"
She frowned
"I suppose I'm already used to it"

[Crazywolf]

Kit walked beside her and nodded. "Yeah I imagine it's weird for lots of people. But anyway I promise I won't freak out anymore." Once more he became curious about this strange woman he was escorting. "How do you learn that stuff anyway?" he asked. "I am guessing you aren't just born with it."

[BumblingBee]

Iona scoffed.
"Actually I was born with it"
She frowned as she thought to herself
'Me and the lot of them'

She turned to her face towards Kit as they walked lesuirely down the road
"Obviously my powers made my upbringing ... Difficult. I was orphaned at a young age, you know all the soppy stuff. But I was found quickly enough. Other than that I just taught myself"

[Crazywolf]

Kit just nodded. He knew that this was a topic he didn't really understand, and perhaps never would.

"By the gods I'm really hungry" he said changing topic. "I hope we soon come to an inn. I could really do with a proper cooked breakfast. Maybe some nice sausages, some crispy bacon, and a couple of poached eggs."

[BumblingBee]

Iona scoffed
"Even if we did find a inn we wouldn't stop"
She poked him in the chest
"We, need to keep moving"
She carried on walking, speeding ahead a little bit
"And that means no stops, no matter what happens"

Unfortunately walking ahead as Iona had done ultimately caused problems. As she talked to Kit she refrained from looking where she was going and fell down a rather large pit with a thump. She even managed to land face first.

[Crazywolf]

Kit was about to bite back with a cross retort when suddenly to his own surprise Iona fell down a large pit in front of them. For a moment he just gawped and blinked not quite able to believe what had just happened. Anxiously he hurried up to the edge of the pit and looked down at her. "Hey, are you ok?" he asked worriedly.

[BumblingBee]

Her response was at best, slightly muffled
"Oh yes, just dandy thanks"
She stood up grumbling to herself
"I mean really?! Who would leave a bloody great big hole like this all the way out here?! I tell you, if it's that little furball we saw earlier!"
She continued to grumble angrily to herself while pacing round the small circular hole. Eventually she sighed and looked up at Kit. She motioned to the space around her
"Well?! Plan on helping me out anytime soon?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit sighed and muttered something under his breath. "Yes of course your ladyship" he replied with mock politeness. "I'm just amazed how you didn't see it in the first place." Reaching down he offered her a hand up.

[BumblingBee]

"I was too busy telling you how to do your job..."
She grabbed his hand
"Mister!"
After much fumbling and grumbling, Iona managed to lug herself out of the joke with Kits help. On their last heave she was practically dragged out of the hole. The surprise if the motion caused her to stumble forwards into kit. In the midst of the moment she climbed to him to stop herself Looking like an idiot again.

[Crazywolf]

Kit staggered back a pace as she stumbled into him. He felt her arm go round his body grabbing hold and felt their sudden close proximity. Normally he wouldn't have minded a beautiful woman grabbing hold of him like that but right then such thoughts were about a million miles from his mind. Blushingly slightly he waited for her to regain her balance and disentangle herself.

[BumblingBee]

Iona pushed herself away quite suddenly.
"Yes, well, ... Thanks"
As much as she tried she couldn't hide her own cheeks now tinted with pink. Iona continued to walk on ahead briskly. Arms folded and face (seemingly) emotionless. She turned back to look at kit.
"I hope you know that was clearly so I wouldn't fall over"

[Crazywolf]

"Err yes of course" he replied blushing slightly. "But don't think you can boss me around ok. I'm the finest swordsman in all Avoria. I'll have you know that I single-handedly held the west gate of Ferroza against an army of soldiers. So when I decide I want to stop then that means we stop. When I decide I want to eat breakfast then I damn well eat breakfast."

As they walked and talked the trees began to thin out a bit. Coming to the edge of the forest they saw a town directly up ahead of them. The sight of it immediately lifted up Kit's spirits. The crucial knowledge that he wouldn't have to miss breakfast completely filled him with relief.


*Ferroza: A foreign city in the distant land of Talia. A country like Italy.

[BumblingBee]

"Showoff..."
Iona mumbled to herself quietly as they continued their journey.

As they approached the town Iona began to tense. She fidgited worriedly as they grew ever closer. Just before they entered the small town she froze completely, twiddling her fingers in the process. Her face was a mixture of worry and clear anxciety.
"Look I know you want breakfast but..."
Her head looked in all directions
"Ohh do we have to stop here?"

(I'm gonna have to go for a lil bit I'm afraid, but I'll be back tomorrow afternoon :D)

[Crazywolf]

Kit looked at her puzzled. In his mind he was already picturing the sausages and bacon. "Why what's the problem?" he asked.

(That's fine, there's no hurry :) )

[BumblingBee]

"It's this town, they-"

Iona suddenly ducked down, hiding herself behind a bush. A few travellers were simply passing them on the road. As they passed kit, they gave him a small wave and smile of acknowledgement, completely unaware of Iona's presence. Once they were clearly out of sight Iona rose once more. She looked at kit desperately, still fidgeting nervously. More than anything she saw the hunger in his eyes. If they didn't stop now she'd probably never hear the end of it.
"Ohhhh"
She glanced at the town
"Let's just be quick about it, alright?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit could see she was definitely worried about something even if she didn't say what. She really was the most confusing person he'd met. "Okay sure" he replied. "If it makes you feel better then I promise we won't stay very long." With that he led the way down towards the town. Still following the road they reached the town gates where there was a steady trickle of folk passing in and out. Standing beside the gate was a solitary watchman. As they arrived Kit called out to him. "Excuse me sir, I wonder if you can tell us where inside we might find a decent inn?"

[BumblingBee]

As they walked Iona removed a scarf from her satchel and tied in around her head in an attempt to hide her face. However she was so nervous she failed to see Kit standing right in front of her. She walked head first straight into him
"Ow"
She frowned rubbing her face tenderly. Iona peered around Kit to see who he was talking to
"Shit"
The word escaped her before she could stop it. Iona suddenly shrunk back behind Kit, using him almost as a shield. Why was it the very first person he had to talk to in the town was a blody guard?

[Crazywolf]

Kit felt a jolt as Iona walked into him. What the heck is she so nervous about? he wondered. Whatever it was it had clearly got her very distracted. Luckily the watchman didn't seem to notice. "Well sir you can try the Dancing Fox" he said in reply. "When you go inside just walk straight on ahead and you'll see her on the left."

"Ok thanks" Kit replied. With a frown he turned back to Iona. "Well, are you coming?" he asked.

[BumblingBee]

Iona pouted at him
"Oh shutup"
She walked forward briskly yet her stance still held anxiety. As they entered the town gates the sights and smells of the market was the frst to meet them. Merchants haggled, children danced through the endless maze of stalls and the sound of shopkeepers selling their goods echoed through the streets.

Iona almost wanted to smile. Markets had always held a place in her heart. For she herself had once sold her trade there, back in the safe times.
Well.
Safer.

She become so lost in he won memory she stopped walking completely. Eyes simply glazing over once familiar teritory.

[Crazywolf]

Kit shook his head and gave a sigh of exasperation. She was quite possibly the most impossible person he had ever met. He strode along briskly to keep pace with her. Meanwhile his eyes glanced around the marketplace, though he didn't see anything of particular interest, to him it was just like any other small town market, all the same old stuff. He gently brushed away a small boy trying to sell him a ferret. It was then he realised that Iona had stopped again. "I thought you were in a hurry" he said. "Look the inn is just up ahead."

[BumblingBee]

Iona snapped her thoughts away and returned swiftly to reality. Lingering on the past was always dangerous. She nodded at Kits observation and continued their way towards the inn.

As all good inns should be the place was merry and alive with activity. Merchants and travellers alike were busy preparing for the days journey.

[Crazywolf]

Stepping inside the inn alongside her Kit glanced round at the general hubbub of the commonroom. It was one of those half-timber buildings. It contained a long bar with a serving hatch at the end and rows of square wooden tables. It also had a high ceiling with chandeliers and stairs leading to an upstairs balcony area. Cutting his way through the throng he led the way directly to the serving hatch and joined a small que. A few seconds later he reached the front. Recalling Iona's anxiousness not to linger he simply ordered a bowl of stew, which was served to him immediately. He then waited for Iona to make her own order while he glanced round to try and spot an empty table.

[BumblingBee]

Iona frowned softly as she thought.
"I'll have..."
She sighed
"Sod it, some summer wine will do"
The barkeep raised his eyebrow
"This early miss?"
"Yes this sodding early"
Iona grabbed her goblet of wine rather sharply and plnked herself down at a small empty table by the window

[Crazywolf]

Kit followed her over to the table and planted himself down in the chair opposite. He began eating the bowl of stew, not the best meal he'd ever tasted but it was passable. He was surprised Iona didn't take any food herself. "Your not hungry this morning?" he ventured.

[BumblingBee]

She smiled weakly
"I rarely am, mornings seem to disagree with me"
She sighed and looked blankly out of the window
"Always have"

She took a quick glance at Kit as he busied himself eating. For a sellsword he seemed rather nice, maybe even trustworthy? She couldn't be sure yet. It seemed she would have to start slowly.

Iona suddenly grabbed the bottle of wine and took several large swigs. She shook her head as the warmth of the wine travelled through her. Her eyes met Kit
"Can you keep secrets?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit paused between mouthfuls, surprised by the sudden question. He wondered what possible secrets she could mean.

"Sure" he replied.

[BumblingBee]

"Good cause I've got a few"

Leaning forwards heavily on the table (It seemed the wine was already kicking in) Iona raised her hand. Her slender fingers were outstretched, she counted them as she spoke
"Firstly I'm a witch, but you already knew that"
"Secondly, I have a incredible fear of small furry creatures"
"Thirdly,I grew up in a whore house ... you can guess what I did for a living"
"Fourth, I've killed a total of two people and one sheep in my lifetime"
She smiled mischeviously
"And finally, I am the last child of the house Davan and wish to reclaim my rightful throne"

Iona reached over for the wine bottle and casually took another few swigs. She looked at Kit expectantly
"Well? Now it's your turn"

[Crazywolf]

In response Kit stopped and stared at her for a second, momentarily baffled, then abruptly laughed in disbelief. "Hah! Last child of House Davan. You really think you can fool me that easily?" Leaning back he shook his head. "Everyone knows House Davan don't exist anymore. I must admit you convinced me with the part about the whore-house, I could believe that part. But House Davon? Really. But okay since we're playing, I'm really the Tsar of Sidonia and I killed the world's last ice-dragon with my bare hands."

[BumblingBee]

Iona frowned. She was certainly not amused. Leaning over she fumbled about in her satchel once more. Suddenly she threw a golden locket on the table. The locket was pure Davanni gold and forged into the shape of a dragons head. Rubies littered its surface and made the necklace sparkle and glitter in the light.

Iona picked up the fine chain letting the locket swirl gracegfully.
"This belonged to the High Queen Kacey, it's been passed down for over eight hundred years and has only ever been owned by Avorian Queens"
She smiled rather smugly

[Crazywolf]

Kit dropped his spoon and stared at the locket in wide-eyed disbelief. It had to be worth an absolute fortune. For a moment he was speechless. "Really? You? The last child of Davos? Heir to the throne?" he stammered. "Holy frack." Internally he tried to make sense of it all but his mind was in a whirl. He tried desperately gather his thoughts. "Quick" he said urgently "put that thing away before someone sees it. I mean, holy frack again."

For a moment he sat and stared at her dumbfounded then eventually he managed to formulate a question. "So how will you regain your throne?"

[BumblingBee]

Iona couldn't help but giggle at Kits astonishment. She casually tossed the locket within her satchel once more, sealing the bag shut. She sighed and poured herself a final glass of wine.
"Honestly? I don't know"
She frowned softly as she patted the map still firmly attatched to her belt
"I just know I was found with this as a babe, and wherever it leads..."
Iona scoffed slightly
"Well, it'll lead to somewhere, that's the point"

[Crazywolf]

Kit glanced at the map on her waist. He wasn't quite sure what to say in reply, it was all still a lot to take in. "Hey you know this is dangerous right?" he replied. "I mean if the new king catches you trying to get throne back he'll cut your head off... Have you any idea what that locket you've already got is worth? If you want my advice forget the darn map, just sell the locket. You'll be rich enough to live comfortably for the rest of your life."

[BumblingBee]

She sighed a little forlornly
"I know that"
Her soft frown returned
"Yet all my life I've been frowned upon, hunted, taunted"
Her eyes glistened
"Never loved"
She smiled weakly
"And now I have a chance to claim all of those things and more"
She looked at Kit dead in the eye
"What would you do? Truly?"

[Crazywolf]

Hearing the words Kit felt sympathy for her. He pondered the question. In truth he'd never really thought about much beyond money and enjoying life's luxuries.

"Listen I'm probably not the best person to ask on that" he replied. "All I care about is the simple stuff. But I gave my word I'd escort you to the place on the map, so if that's what you truly want then I will keep that word. I just hope that when we get there you find what your looking for."

[BumblingBee]

Iona smiled, genuinely too.

That was a rather kind thing Kit just said to her. She wasn't used to kindess.
"Thank you"

She pushed the wine aside and looked at him expectantly
"So, are we ready to head out again?"

(BTW Go ahead and do whatever it is you wanted to do whenever :D)

[Crazywolf]

"Don't mention it" Kit replied. He finished off the last mouthfuls of stew. "Sure, I'm ready. Let's go."

He rose up from the table ready to leave and then suddenly froze. There standing opposite him was a stocky broad-shouldered man of middle age with a short moustache. A man who carried a sword at the hip. For a second the two just stared at each other then the other man gave him a broad smile revealing several missing teeth.

"Well well Kit Hawkswood" he said. "It's been a long time hasn't it. I wasn't expecting to find you here and from the look on your face I'd say you weren't expecting to find me."

"Uhh yeah no I guess not" Kit replied. He suddenly looking quite uneasy. "Umm maybe we could talk about this."

In reply the other man simply smiled again then raised his voice loudly so the rest of the inn could hear. "Gentlemen" he boomed "this man here is a wanted thief. I'll give ten crowns to the person who helps me capture him and take him in."

In response about half a dozen eager volunteers around the room rose to their feet, several reaching for knives or makeshift weapons. Kit glanced around nervously. He considered drawing his sword but saw that he was too outnumbered. Besides any fight would bring the watch down on them as well. Instead he turned and grabbed Iona by the arm and started pulling her along toward the door. "Quick! Run!" he said.

[BumblingBee]

Iona could barely react before she was being dragged along. She clung to her scarf and satchel as the two rushed down dingy streets and back alleys. For a brief moment Iona looked back at the gaining crowd. Eyes wide she turned to Kit
"So I'm hoping you have a plan here"
A well thrown knife grazed closely by the side of her head
"Cause if you don't you might want to make one ... now!"

[Crazywolf]

Kit frantically scanned the street up ahead as they ran, almost tripping over a stray cat in the process. He saw the narrow street was leading them towards the stone wall that ran around the edge of the town. Parked beside the wall was a hay-wagon. "There" he pointed as he ran. "We can get up over the wall."

Reaching the foot of the wall he sprang up onto the back of the wagon and from there hauled himself up onto the top of the wall itself. Turning back he reached down to give Iona a hand up. As he did so he looked back to see that the group was still running towards them.

"Quick" he said "over the top."

[BumblingBee]

Iona put her hands on her hips and pouted.
"Really, you can't expect me to clamber over this wall like an everyday raggamuffin"
She folded her arms and frowned kicking at the ground slightly
"Besides, they might see up my skirts"
She motioned to the now dangerously close mob.

[Crazywolf]

"Look if you want my help then you have to come with me right now" Sebb retorted impatiently. He also glanced anxiously at the approaching mob. They really didn't have time for this... if she didn't come he would just have to leave her, much as he hated it.

[BumblingBee]

"Ugh, fine"
As delicately as she could, Iona climbed the wall a little ways. She grabbed hold of Kits hand
"Well? Help me up then. You can't expect me to do all the hard work surely"

[Crazywolf]

Reaching out Kit grabbed her arm and hauled her up onto the rampart. "There's a slight drop on the other side" he warned. "I'll go first then catch you at the bottom."

Without further delay he swung himself over the top of the ramparts and lowered himself by his hands as far as possible before letting go and dropping the last few feet to the ground. He immediately glanced back up. "Come on quick" he urged her.

Back on the other side of the wall he heard the muffled and breathless shout of his nemesis the broad-shouldered man. "They're getting away! Don't let them escape!"

[BumblingBee]

Iona twiddled her fingers nervously. The drop looked a lot further from this high up.
"Oh, heavens help me"
Iona crossed her fingers and jumped.

And of course she landed nicely in Kits arms

[Crazywolf]

Kit sighed with relief as she landed safely in his arms. He quickly dropped her on her feet. "Come on this way" he said urgently taking her by the hand pulling her along away from the wall as fast as she could go. Behind he heard shouts of men up on he wall. Up ahead lay an orchard and some farm buildings, then beyond those some woodland where they could hide. He ran onwards leading the way.

[BumblingBee]

Brief as the moment was, Iona had rather enjoyed being in Kits armed. She had never felt safe before, never felt the comfort of someone elses protection. Yet she had seen a glipse of that comfort through Kit. The moment however was shortlived as once more she was pulled along. Hopefully towards more pernament safety.

[Crazywolf]

Kit led her onward through the orchard. He carried on without stopping until they reached the woodland beyond it. Once inside the wood he led her on for another couple of minutes then finally slowed down. Looking back he could neither see nor hear sign of pursuit. He rested his arm on a tree and gave a sigh of relief. He then looked across at Iona feeling a little bit bashful.

[BumblingBee]

Iona was leaning over on her knees, panting heavily. After awhile her breathing eventually clamed enough so she could speak. She heaved hersel up and leaned upon the tree herself. Iona moved a strand of hair out of her face looked at kit with a slight frown. She motioned with her hand
"Care to explain what all that was about?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit blushed slightly feeling embarrassed but realised that he owed her an explanation. "One time while I was still a youth I was caught stealing sheep" he confessed. "I was raised in a small village in Northshire and my family were dirt poor. Fortunately though I managed to escape. I fed the county and joined up with a band of mercenaries. That large fellow back there is the country bailiff who originally caught me. What he was doing in that particular town I've no idea, I can only assume he was there to arrest someone else." He blushed once again. "Look I'm sorry you had to run away like that. I realise it's not very fitting for a princess. I promise I'll make it up to you."

[BumblingBee]

Iona chuckled softly and swatted at him playfully
"It's fine, I've had worse honestly"
She stood up straight and walked forwards a little
"I've had to steal before too, life in the slums can certainly be a shithole I'll tell you"
She paused at an outlook, overlooking a valley slightly. Iona folded her arms as a thoughtful smirk crossed her face
"Hmph ... princess"
She frowned
"Very unfitting really"

[Crazywolf]

Kit smiled at the last remark. "Well it's what you are" he replied. "You may not have the gown and the tiara yet but that doesn't change your lineage. And for what it's worth I recon you wouldn't be too bad at the job either, certainly as good as anyone else. At least you'd know what it's like for those people at the bottom."

He turned and stared at the valley below them. "We'll have to keep off the roads for a couple of days" he remarked. "At least until we reach the next shire. I guess we can try and obtain some food from a farmhouse. Shame I don't have any snares on me or I'd catch us some nice tasty bunny rabbits."

As he spoke his mind drifted back to the moment he'd caught her in his arms. Just for that second there he thought he'd felt something towards her. Quickly he brushed the thought away. She was a princess for goodness sake, that made her far too high and important to fool around with the likes of him.

[BumblingBee]

As Kit talked of snares and traps Iona couldn't help but smile
"Oh please"
She waved her hand delicately as wisps of sparkling smoke danced elegantly through her fingers
"Who needs traps when you've got magic?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit gave a wry smile. "Well I guess we are all sorted then" he replied. He gestured at the valley in front of them with his arm. "Lead on your ladyship."

[BumblingBee]

Iona nodded and continued to trot along the road ahead. For awhile she thought silently, fingers drumming along the side of her arm as she did so. With a soft frown she looked up at Kit
"So how does a poor boy who has to steal for a living become a sellsword anyway?"

[Crazywolf]

"By starting at the bottom I guess" he replied. "When I joined my first company I was the youngest and got all the dirty jobs, preparing camp food, digging latrines and the pay was next to nothing." He winced slightly at the memory. "But in return some of the older ones taught me how to fight. Eventually I got good at it."

He still couldn't quite believe he was conversing with a princess, an heir to the throne of Avoria no less. If someone had told him this was going to happen he never would have believed it. Neither could he get his head around the fact she had grown up in a whore-house. All those guys she must have slept with, and none of them had ever known...

Suddenly his thoughts were interrupted by the twang of a bow-string. A split second later an arrow embedded itself in the tree just in front of them. There was barely a second to register it before five rough looking outlaws sprang out of the trees in front of them. Two of them were pointing bows, the others had cudgels. All five had dirty ill-fitting clothes and a hungry look about them. The ring-leader, a tall man with fair hair, stepped forward. "Alright mister drop the weapon and no-one gets killed" he growled in a thick country accent.

[BumblingBee]

"Good gods, can't we go anywhere without being chased or attacked?"
Iona hissed at Kit as the thugs surrounded them.

She backed up closer to him, instictively Iona began to summon the flames to her hand. She hadn't needed to use them in awhile, but it seemed inevitable at that moment in time. From nowhere in particular a sudden bout of courage swept over Iona. She had no idea where it came from, but she seized the opportunity to use it before it vanished once more.

Standing up a little taller, she adressed the leader of the group
"What do you want with us?"

[Crazywolf]

"Oh not much" the leader replied with an unpleasant smile. "Just take your money, and your boyfriends lovely sword, and the clothes off your backs and the boots off your feet. And maybe have a bit of fun with you as well." He gave her an odious wink.

Kit glanced sideways at Iona. "I can't fight if they shoot us both first" he said. "Is there any magic you can use to distract them? If you can just deal with the two archers somehow I can probably handle the rest."

[BumblingBee]

Iona smiled and chuckled rather darkly. She outstrecthed her hands and clicked her knuckles threataningly. Suddenly she thrust her hands at an archer each. Jets of red light practically erupted from her palms smashing the archers to the ground with suprising force. Gritting her teethshe turned her head slightly towards Kit
"Go quick!"
Her hands shook with energy as she fought to keep the archers down
"I can't hold them forever"

[Crazywolf]

The three outlaws still on their feet gawped in shock. "Witchcraft!" one of them yelled out. Meanwhile Kit didn't need prompting twice, he drew his sword and charged them. He cut down the leader with his first stroke. A second man attacked him from the side but he twisted and parried it then buried his sword in the man's chest. Faced by his long-sword the third man turned and fled. Kit then turned back to face the two men on the ground.

[BumblingBee]

Iona was begining to falter, lightning was incredibly difficult to control. She suddenly sunk to her knees the red lightning dissapearing instantly. Iona was panting heavily, she was completely and utterly spent. Not exactly great considering the archer charging towards her.

[Crazywolf]

Kit saw the archer rise up and charge Iona. Realising he wouldn't make it to her in time he planted his sword in the turf and drew a dagger from his belt. The outlaw reached Iona and raised a knife-wielding arm ready to strike, a murderous look in his eye. However in that same moment Kit flung his dagger and caught him between the shoulder blades. The man instantly keeled forward, dropping dead at Iona's feet. Without hesitation Kit grabbed up his sword and spun around to face the other archer, only to see that the man had dropped his bow and fled. Still holding the sword he then hurried back over toward Iona. "Hey are you ok" he asked her looking concerned.

[BumblingBee]

Ionas breathing had calmed ever so slightly. She shooed Kit away.
"I'm fine really"
She stood up uneasily, wobbling as she did so. Iona raised her hands to observe the damage. Her hands were red and sore, burns were begining to cover her palms. She frowned and tutted
"Oh well that's just perfect"
She folded her arms ignoring the pain it caused her
"Waste of perfectly good magic ... didn't even kill all the bastards"

[Crazywolf]

"Well I wouldn't call it a waste exactly" Kit replied. "Without it we could both have come to serious harm. In the end though most of them were cowards." He spoke the last word with derision.

"Are you sure your ok? You look a bit off-colour. Maybe you should rest for a bit."

[BumblingBee]

"No, we need to keep moving"
Ionas voice was firm. She fumbled around in her satchel wincing everytime her hands even brushed against something. After awhile she pulled out some bandages. As she tied them around her hand she peered at Kit
"How bout you? They get you at all?"

[Crazywolf]

"No I'm fine" Kit replied. He bent down to clean his sword on the grass. He then searched the bodies of the men he'd killed and found a couple of coin purses and a spare knife. Unfortunately though both of the purses felt fairly light. He emptied the contents of both out into his hand revealing a few shillings and pennies. "Well it ain't much but I guess we should split it" he said. He took half the coins in his palm and offered them to Iona.

[BumblingBee]

Iona merely looked at the coins then scoffed
"It's alright, keep it"
She curled his hand over the money and pushed his hand lightly back to him
"What could I do with money anyway? You'll have far better use of it then I"

She turned away and began to wander through the orchard they had found themselves in. Casually she leaned up and inspected the fruit the trees bore
"Apples"
She plucked one daintily nd tossed it to Kit
"May as well stock up a little"

[Crazywolf]

Kit pocketed the coins and then caught the apple. "Yeah might as well" he replied. "But we'd better keep an eye out. Farmers don't like trespassers, let alone those who pinch apples." As he spoke he looked around but all he saw was more trees. Clearly the orchard was quite big. As they walked through it he grabbed a couple more apples and stuffed them in his pouch.

"So I guess we just keep walking until nightfall" he remarked.

[BumblingBee]

"Yessir we do"
Iona sighed. She was, of course, overly excited for the destination. But the journey however seemed less enjoyable. With at least two murder attempts within a single day, they certainly hadn't made the best of starts.

'Oh well'
She thought to herself
'It'll all be worth it in the end I suppose'
She frowned slightly
'Hopefully anyway'

[Crazywolf]

Leaving the orchard they kept on walking, passing through woodland and rolling pastures. Then eventually the sun began to set. "Well I guess we should stop soon" Kit remarked. "Also you said earlier you could use your magic to find us some supper. If so that would most certainly be welcome."

[BumblingBee]

"Oh alright"
Iona set down her satchel near the foot of a tree and cautiously unravelled her bandaged hands. The burning had scarred nicely, and while it wouldnt open up again that wouldn't stop it from hurting like hell. Iona sighed and pushed the pain to the back of her head.

The wandered on for a little while , looking around as she did so. Eventually she came across a small group of pheasants. Iona smiled. Pheasents being the imbecilic creatures that they are made them very easy to kill. She managed to corner one away from its group. She suddenly darted her hand towards the bird, allowing a spike-like jet of red lightning to pierce the creatures flesh.

Iona returned feeling rather proud of herself. Dead pheasant in hand.

[Crazywolf]

While she had been away Kit had been busy himself making a campfire. He glanced up as she returned. When he saw the dead pheasant in her hand he broke into a warm smile.

"Food fit for a princess" he remarked cheerfully. "You want me to pluck the feathers?"

[BumblingBee]

"Ugh, please"
She handed him the dead bird
"Hunting I can do, but all the nasty stuff after it"
She stuck out her tongue and folded her arms
"No thank you"

With a contented sigh she plopped herself down in the crook of a base of a tree. Snuggling down to get comfy she looked up at the darkening sky.

[Crazywolf]

Kit took the pheasant from her. Taking out his knife he chopped off it's neck. He then proceeded to pull off all the feathers - a job he was well used to doing. When he had finished he grabbed some sticks to create a spit. Lastly he pulled out his tinderbox and used it to light the fire. Within a minute it was burning well. Satisfied he sat back and watched the bird cook, occasionally rising to turn the spit.

While it was cooking he looked over towards Iona where she sat. "I still can't quite believe it that you're a princess" he said.

[BumblingBee]

Iona chuckled softly
"Imagine how I feel"
She sighed and folded her arms behind her head to rest upon them
"Growing up knowing you'll be nothing but a whore for the rest of your life gives you a certain ... 'aspect' on life"
She frowned slightly as her mind began to wander
"Then it turns out one day, POOF"
She motioned with her hands
"You've been rightful heir to the throne this whole time"
She replaced her hands and continued to look out at the sky

[Crazywolf]

Kit nodded as he continued to check the pheasant. "Yeah I can imagine it must have been quite a big shock" he replied. "So how and when did you find out?"

[BumblingBee]

Iona was completely silent for some time. Eventually she spoke.
"I learnt who I was when that bastard who calls himself King, ordered for me to be brought to his chambers. I was twelve"
Her eyes stared away into nothing as the memory took over her
"He tried to..."
She motioned with her hands, she didn't need to explain the rest
"He was completely drunk, as he tried, he taunted me, told me I'd never be as good as my parents"
A dark grin grew upon her face
"A gave him a few scars as a part term farewell, I'll see him again soon enough"

[Crazywolf]

Kit frowned as she described the event. But on top of that the last remark worried him. He didn't want to see anything bad happen to her but her driven desire for revenge could lead to precisely that.

"I'm sorry to hear about that" he replied. "For him to try that, it can't have been nice."

He glanced back at the fire where the dinner was still cooking. He wished he could think of something else for them to talk about, something less grim, but in that moment his mind went blank.

[BumblingBee]

Ionas eyes widened
"Can't have been nice?!"
Her voice got louder
"It was a living hell!"
She stood up in her anger, motioning with her hands desperately, getting more and more flustered
"He touched me and grabbed me and - and!"
She was pacing around in her irritation, tears were forming in her eyes.

[Crazywolf]

Seeing she was upset Kit rose to his feet. To stop her pacing and to give comfort he reached out a hand and placed it on her shoulder. Placing himself in front of her he looked her in the eyes. He wasn't used to dealing with this type of emotion but right then he just wanted to offer comfort and make her feel better.

"It's ok" he replied quietly "you don't have to describe the rest. I get the picture."

[BumblingBee]

"But you don't ... You don't!"
She was shaking a little now, tears falling freely from her face. She clutched at her arms and backed up slowly until she reached the tree. Sliding down its trunk, she plopped down onto the floor and buried her face within her arms. Her body still shook with sobs but the anger had passed.

For now anyways.

[Crazywolf]

As she sat there sobbing Kit slowly sat himself down beside her. "I wish I could understand exactly how it felt" he said. "But I guess I can't. But I've no doubt it was pretty awful."

[BumblingBee]

Iona gave a feeble nodd, still remaining silent. Her eyes gazed into the fire, watching it dance and flicker gracefully. When she was younger, she had alway wisehed she could be like a flame. Burning bright and beautiful, yet still a force to be reckoned with. Now look at her, a sobbing wreck who can't even travel somwhere by herself.

She sighed and leaned her head back against the tree.

[Crazywolf]

Kit saw she was still upset. "Look if there's anything I can do for you, anything at all, you just have to name it" he told her. "If you like I'll even give you a hug. As to this map of yours I hope that when we get where we're going you find something useful, something that helps you."

[BumblingBee]

Iona fell silent.

She raised her head, eyebrow raised and a smirk plastered on her face
"A hug?"
She scoffed lightly folding her arms
"What's suddenly turned you soft?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit bridled somewhat at her deamenor. "Nothing really, I was just being friendly that's all" he responded. "If you don't want one that's fine. In fact if there's nothing you want from me at all then I may as well just go and check on the dinner."

Without a backward glance he rose up and walked back to the fire. Crouching beside it he then sat himself down on the opposite side putting the fire between them.

[BumblingBee]

Iona leaned back in contemplation
"Being friendly"
She chuckled softly
"Always something I could never quite master"
She shrugged casually
"Oh well"

She stood up slowly and wandered around a little, simply gazing at the dark orchard around them. It looked quite sinister in the moonlight. Iona frowned and shivered a little. Fall was in its last dregs and winter was coming. Iona sighed, coats costed money, money she didn't have.

Well, she didn't have it yet.

[Crazywolf]

Kit heard the words but made no reply. He felt wounded by her behaviour. Well at least now he knew where things stood. Next time she wouldn't get any sympathy. As to her throne he really didn't care whether she got it back or not. He turned the spit a little then sat brooding in silence.

Eventually some minutes later he check the meat again. "I think it's done" he announced curtly.

[BumblingBee]

Iona stepped forward and cut the pheasant in silence. She handed Kit his share. Expecting at least a sign of thanks she was suprised when she recieved none. Frowning, she returned to her tree to eat her food in respective silence.

The food was finished and the silence continued as she sorted through her thoughts. It had taken her a while but she now understood why Kit must have been upset with her. She’d been so caught up in her own self pity, that she hadn’t realized how cold her words must have sounded.

With all this in mind she stood up and took a step towards Kit. Blatantly yet still with meaning, she simply said
"Sorry"

[Crazywolf]

Kit looked up at her slightly surprised. At that point he'd just about written her off completely. The apology caused him to reassess a little. He still felt a bit hurt but he reminded himself that she had been coping with very bad memories. "It's fine, please think nothing of it" he replied.

He paused momentarily wondering if he should make some further gesture. He reached in his pouch and pulled out one of the apples. "Still hungry?" he asked her.

[BumblingBee]

She shrugged casually
"I guess, a little"
She took the apple and thanked Kit. Sitting down once more, she couldn't help but laugh a little as she chewed.
"Just think, when I become Queen I'll never have to go hungry again"
She frowned a little
"How boring"

[Crazywolf]

"If you become queen" Kit replied warily. "I still don't know what you expect to find with this map. But to me none of it sounds very straightforward."

He pulled out another apple and took a bite from it while staring thoughtfully at the fire.

"We should really wrap up the rest of that pheasant meat and save it for breakfast."

[BumblingBee]

Iona nodded sleepily
"I suppose so"
As she stood she gave a long yawn and set about wrapping the meat. She plopped herself down next to kit as she worked.

[Crazywolf]

Kit saw the yawn. He finished his apple and then built up the fire a bit to keep them both warm. He was used to sleeping rough in fields but wasn't sure about her. He worried she might freeze a bit without a blanket.

"Well I guess we might as well settle down to get some sleep" he commented.

[BumblingBee]

Before Kit even finished his sentence, Iona gave in and let sleep take over. She probably should have moved first though, as her head fell neatly onto Kits shoulder. She sighed contently in her sleep and even nestled a little closer.

[Crazywolf]

Kit grimaced as she nestled closer in her slumber. It was not that he didn't like her or anything, it was just that he wanted to avoid triggering certain emotions. Emotions he felt sure would not be reciprocated. With a sigh to himself he slid an arm round her shoulders and then gently disengaging his own body. With his arm he softly lowered her down towards the ground. When he was sure she was comfortable he moved away a couple of feet and laid down himself. For a moment he laid there looking across at her. He wondered what fate had in store for her. Really his own part in this seemed quite unimportant, he was merely the hired escort. Finally he closed his eyes and fell asleep.

[BumblingBee]

Iona whimpered slightly at the loss of warmth as she was disentangled from Kit. However she soon got comfy again. The next day Iona awoke with the dawn. The ground was cold and hard beneath her. She frowned as she lugged herself up. Looking over her shoulder she saw Kit a little ways away. Unwrapping the scarf from around her neck, she bundled it together and softly slid in underneath his head in a makeshift pillow.

Iona turned and busied herself with poking the ashen remains of the fire. She had decided letting him sleep this particular morning was her thank you for everything he'd previously done for her. Which was a lot when you came to think of it.

[Crazywolf]

Kit woke and opened his eyes. Despite the chill he had slept heavily all night. He looked around and saw Iona sitting at the fire. He then noticed the scarf under his own head. The fact that she had put it there for him was rather touching. It also made him blush slightly. He felt like he was uncovering a whole different side to her.

"Good morning" he murmured with a slight yawn. He sat himself up on his elbow. "I'm sorry if I slept too long. Thanks though for lending me your scarf."

Picking up the scarf he brushed out the creases and then held it out toward her to offer it back.

[BumblingBee]

"Nah it's fine"
She took the scarf and gently folded it back up
"I thought you perhaps needed the sleep after all the excitement yesterday"
She chuckled softly as she placed the scarf in her satchel. She stood up slowly, stretching her arms as she did so.
"Hopefully today will be a little more quiet"

[Crazywolf]

"Yeah hopefully" Kit smiled. He then frowned slightly. Ever since she opened up about her experiences there was something he'd had on his mind. "Listen" he began sheepishly, "when we first met I may have exaggerated by abilities somewhat. I know how to handle a blade sure, but there are hundreds of other guys out there just like me, many of them just as good if not better. Really I'm no-one special. The king on the other hand has an army of trained knights. What I'm saying is I'll protect you as much as I'm able, but don't expect too much. If we get in any serious trouble, worse than outlaws, my one sword may not be enough."

[BumblingBee]

Iona folded her arms
"Well I chose you to get the job done and you said you would"
She trotted forwards a little a smirk on her face
"And if we get too outnumbered, don't worry"
She gave him a reassuring pat on the back
"I'll protect you"
Iona walked forwards a little
"I don't really know what you're talking about if I'm being honest, I mean you took down a group of bandits with very little help from me"
She turned her head to face him
"I'd certainly call that impressive"

[Crazywolf]

The last compliment gave Kit a nice warm feeling inside. "Well I'm glad to know you've got my back" he replied with a wry smile. "As to those bandits really it was nothing, they were just a batch of local thugs, when it came to weaponry they had no proper training at all."

He walked on a bit beside her wondering what they might encounter next. With any luck though it would be a quiet day just like Iona had wished for.

***

All that morning they trekked onwards through woodland consisting mostly of beech, birch and oak trees. At midday they stopped for a break and ate a couple more of the stolen apples.

After the light lunch they carried on for another hour or so when they came suddenly upon the banks of a river. Kit looked in both directions but could see no signs of a bridge. Then looking upstream he spotted some stepping stones.

"Up there" he pointed. "It looks like a way across."

[BumblingBee]

Iona approached the stepping stones but looked a little wary as she did so.
"I hope you can swim"
She crouched down, tossing a couple of pebbles into the rushing river
"Because I can't"
She sighed as she stood up straight.

The rivers current was strong and would easily wisk someone away if they were to fall in. Iona decided she'd stick closely to Kit, just in case of course.

[Crazywolf]

"Well actually I can't either" Kit replied. He turned and gave a cheerful smile. "Don't worry though I'm sure it will be fine. All you gotta do is watch your step and keep your balance." Leading the way he stepped out onto the first couple of stones. "See" he said. "It's fairly easy."

[BumblingBee]

Iona nodded, but she still looked a tad daunted
"If you say so"
Delicately she hopped onto the first stone. She wavered a little, but managed to keep her balance well enough. She smiled, a little proud of herself.

[Crazywolf]

Kit glanced back at her with a smile. Years of sword-practice had made him fairly light on his feet. Leading the way he stepped delicately across the stones toward the other bank making sure he didn't go too far ahead. He was happy enough with his own ability to get across, his only minor worry was Iona would slip behind him, if she were to fall in then he knew that rescuing her would be much easier said than done.

[BumblingBee]

Iona hopped from stone to stone. She wobbled every now and then but all in all, she managed to keep her balance. That was until however she reached a rather mossy stone in particular, it was smooth and slippery. Before Iona could even react she was wobbling precariously over the edge.

With all her strentgh she pushed herself forwards and just about manged to stay on. She smiled rather smugly at Kit
"Not bad huh?"

[Crazywolf]

As Iona wobbled Kit felt his heart in his mouth. When she regained her balance he let out a big sigh of relief. "Yeh not bad" he replied, sounding a bit less enthusiastic. Still at least she hadn't fallen in. If she had then he really hadn't fancied the grim prospect of jumping in to save her.

Carrying on he led the way until they reached the far side. Hopping onto the far bank he turned to offer her a hand.

[BumblingBee]

Iona was feeling rather smug about saving herself. She was in fact feeling so smug, that she completely missed her footing on the next step and fell into the river with a satisfying 'Sploosh'

(BECAUSE I'M EVIL AND I CAN >:D)

[Crazywolf]

As she fell in Kit stared at her aghast. For a second he hesitated but he knew what he had to do. As the current pulled her away he unslung his sword then jumped in after her. For a second his head went below the water then he came up again and reached out to grab hold of her. Seizing her arm he held on tight as the current pulled them both along. "Whatever happens don't let go" he spluttered. As he spoke he looked around desperately for a solution.

[BumblingBee]

Iona was trying desperately to keep her head above the water. She moved forwards a little, practically clinging to Kit. Through gasping for air, she still managed to talk
"You mean ... you jumped in after me, when neither of us know how to swim ... and you don't even have a plan?!"

[Crazywolf]

"Well it seem like the right thing to do at the time" Kit replied, doing his best to keep his own head above the surface. He glanced up ahead where the current was taking them and by good fortune there were two large rocks quite near to the bank.

"There" he said spluttering. As the current took them close to the outer rock he reached out to grab hold of it. With his other arm he held onto Iona. "Ok now climb out" he said.

[BumblingBee]

Iona grabbed at the rock. The jagged surface cut into her already wounded hands and she had to bite her lip to stop herself from crying out in pain. Heaving herself up she managed to clamber on. As soon as she was stable she turned back to Kit and outstretched her hands to him
"Grab on quickly!"

[Crazywolf]

Kit gave her his spare hand. "Thanks" he grunted as she hauled him out. For a second he lay on the rock beside her recovering his breath then wearily clambered up to his feet. All his clothes where drenched. "Lucky escape for both of us huh" he remarked. "I must say I never fancied the idea of drowning."

[BumblingBee]

Iona was panting from the excitement. She chuckled softly at his remark
"Neither did I"
She hauled herself up and looked around them
"I think the river actually helped us on our way a bit, seems we've gotten closer to our destination"

A cold breeze whistled down the river. Iona shivered and rubbed at her arms, her clothes were absolutely soaked. She motioned for Kit,
"I think we should get a fire going"

[Crazywolf]

"Just one small problem" Kit replied. "When I jumped in to save you I left my sword behind. I shall have to walk back and fetch it. But if you want to wait here for me and start on the fire that's fine."

[BumblingBee]

Iona frowned a little but nodded
"Alright"
She wandered over to a small clearing and began to gather various twigs and bits of kindling she could use. Once they were gathered in a orderly pile she set to work actually lighting the fire. She rubbed her hands together until they began to spark, the satisfyig swoosh of a flame quickly followed. Soon enough she had a roaring fire going.

Proudly she sat back and simply awaited Kits return.

[Crazywolf]

Leaving Iona to start the fire it took Kit a good five minute walk to get back to where they had been. On arrival he was glad to find his sword and belt still lying there on the bank where he had dropped them. The long-sword was his prized possession, the most valuable item he owned, it would have been a bad blow to lose it. Picking up the sword-belt he slung it back over his shoulder where it belonged.

Heading back downstream he reaching the clearing where Iona waited. "Hey" he greeted her. "Great job on the fire." Sitting down he pulled off his leather jerkin to lay it out beside the fire to dry and also let the air get to his shirt. He also pulled off his boots. By himself he might have gone further to remove his shirt as well, but he certainly wasn't going to do that in front of a princess.

[BumblingBee]

Iona had luckily managed to save her satchel. Rooting around in it she pulled out a large blanket shawl thing. Iona shuffled right next to Kit until they were almost touching, she made herself comfy and wrapped the blanket around them. She glanced over at him and frowned a little.
"What? We need to preserve our warmth and I only have the one blanket"

[Crazywolf]

As Iona moved up close to him and wrapped the blanket round them both Kit felt his blood pressure rising up a little. Certain emotions came unbidden to him. Chiding himself mentally he tried his best to keep them check.

"Umm yeah I guess so" he replied blushing slightly. "It's very nice of you to share."

He fell quiet waiting for the clothes to dry. But meanwhile he couldn't stop himself suruptitiously stealing glances towards her.

Then suddenly as they sat there was a rustling among the trees just a few yards off ahead and to the right. Kit immediately turned his eyes in that direction. Standing there and facing directly towards them both there was a large grizzly bear. For a second he just froze and stared at it. Oh frack he thought.

[BumblingBee]

As kit was, Iona too was frozen solid. Her eyes widened at the sight of the bear. Barely moving she whispered over at Kit
"Don't ... Move ... A muscle ... If we're lucky ... It'll just ... Go away"

This is what Iona was hoping it would do, her logic however argued otherwise. She knew the bear especially at this time of year would be looking for food and food alone. And if it wanted to join their supper in a polite and orderly fashion then that was fine, but Iona sensed the bear had more violent methods in mind.

[Crazywolf]

"Just go away? Are you crazy?" Kit replied. "He's either hungry or annoyed that were sitting in his spot."

Very cautiously he reached for his sword infront of him. He then rose up to his feet to take a fighting stance. "Go! Go!" he said to it. In response the bear stood and growled at him. Kit bit his lip hoping it wouldn't charge him. It was pretty darn big.

[BumblingBee]

Suddenly there was a bright light and a faint humming noise echoed around them. Iona was standing, arms outstretched. She had somehow created a seemingly see through dome around them, made from some sort of energy. Slowly she lowered her arms.
"He can't see us now, but he still knows we're here. He can probably smell us"
She ran her fingers through her hair and sighed
"The protection spell will last until morning, hopefully he'll have buggered off by then ... Hopefully"

[Crazywolf]

Kit stared at the dome looking rather impressed. However he remained a little on guard, not quite convinced. He cautiously sat and watched as the bear approached the edge of the dome and snuffled at it, it's path seemingly blocked. For a good fifteen minutes or so it snuffled around the edge then finally gave up and wandered away.

Kit turned to Iona. "Well so far I guess it worked" he said with a wry smile. "At least now we can relax, get dry and get some rest."

[BumblingBee]

"Ugh, you can say that again"
Iona yawned and flopped down onto the grass. She was asleep in seconds.

The next day was cold and wet. Iona awoke to the sound of dripping water. She sat up to find a thick drizzle showering the land. With a grunt and a groan Iona lugged herself up. She wrapped her scarf around her head and shook Kit awake gently.

[Crazywolf]

Kit was fast asleep dreaming. In his dream he dreampt that Iona had recovered her crown and given him a knighthood, she had then appointed him as her personal champion. Then having done that she had personally summoned him to the royal bedchamber to express her full gratitude. "Yes my queen, whatever you command" he murmured dreamily. Then his eyes flicked open and was surprised to find himself back in the forest. He glanced up at the real Iona. The thought of the dream was still in his mind and he blushed heavily.

"Oh hi did I sleep late again?" he asked. "Sorry about that one. Lets grab breakfast and get going."

[BumblingBee]

(I genuinely laughed at that XD)

Iona blushed slightly before bursting out into stifled giggles. Once she had recovered herself she smiled at Kit
"Having a nice dream there?"
Still smiling she stood up straight and faced the horizon, map in hand
"We're not that far off now, another day maybe?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit blushed heavily with embarrassment. She couldn't know could she? Did witches read minds? No of course not, that was impossible...

"Umm yeh, I guess another day" he replied. Still a bit bleary he rummaged in his pouch and pulled out the last apple. Not much to start on but it would have to do. Maybe later they would find another pheasant or find some rabbits.

He devoured the apple in about a minute then grabbed his sword-belt and stood up.

"Ok" he said. "Ready when you are. Lets get moving."

[BumblingBee]

The two pondered along at a steady pace throughout the day, they spent the time chatting mostly. Ion even revealed more information about her last, how and where she had grown up, some of the finer details of her life so far. It was odd in a way, Iona felt strangely comfortable around Kit, she felt safe and protected yet she could still open up to him.

By late evening the two were a mere five miles away from their destination. Iona bubbled with excitement over the map. She desperately wanted to get there now but her sore legs told her otherwise. She turned to kit with a with a warm smile.
"As much as I'd love to carry on I'm utterly exhausted. Shall we make camp here for tonight?"

(I feel we need a romantic scene by the fire before getting there XD)

[Crazywolf]

(Okay if you insist XD)

Kit looked at Iona. In the last couple of days her demeanor toward him seemed to have changed so much. He had really started to enjoy her company. He almost didn't want the journey to end so soon.

"Yes I think that would be wise" he replied. "If you think you could magic up some more food I'll start building a fire. The town is a long way behind us now, tomorrow it should be safe to use the road again, which will make things much easier."

[BumblingBee]

Iona nodded
"I suppose so, the Forrest does have its charms though"
She placed her things down and wandered off to go mind some food. She returned a few minutes later, this time with a hare in hand. Iona handed the hare to Kit and plopped herself down by the fire.

[Crazywolf]

Kit sat and skinned the hare then placed it over the fire to cook. Before long it was ready. Sitting down opposite Iona he ate his portion while he drifted in his own thoughts. As he glanced across at her he couldn't help thinking about how irresistible she looked with her pale unblemished skin, enchanting green eyes and beautiful red lips. Her outfit with the red petticoat only enhanced the effect, perfectly complementing her complexion. Suddenly aware that he was staring a bit he quickly moved his gaze away.

"Might be a bit cold tonight" he ventured. "Lucky you brought yourself a blanket."

[BumblingBee]

Iona noticed his gaze but decided not to comment. Instead she simply smiled to herself in amusement. She looked up at the clear sky as a cold chill whistled through the air. Iona shuffled towards Kit slightly, saying
"Aye it will be, but you'll need it as much as I will"
As she had done the night before, Iona wrapped the blanket around the two of them as they sat together. They were sat closely, almost touching. She couldn't help but notice how the fires light enhanced the look of his toned form, shadows dancing across that handsome face of his. Iona smiled a little to herself.

[Crazywolf]

Kit felt his heart beating a little faster as Iona came close and wrapped the blanket around them both. Her close proximity merely magnified her beauty. "Thanks" he murmured in reply.

He wondered how much longer he could control his own feelings or even if he wanted to. He turned his head slightly to look at her. "You know you have beautiful eyes."

[BumblingBee]

Iona's heart soared. For a minute she was shocked more than anything. She looked at Kit and smiled more than she had ever done before. A slight pink blush tinted her cheeks.
"Thank you"
She laughed softly and looked down a little
"No-one's ever said anything like that to me before you know"

[Crazywolf]

"Really?" Kit replied, slightly surprised. "Because they really do look beautiful." As he spoke he gazed longing towards her. His dark eyes rose to make contact with hers. He didn't say anything further but the look on his face was enough to give away how he felt. In that moment he could feel the driving urge to lean forward and kiss her.

[BumblingBee]

Slowly.
Hesitantly.
Iona raised her hand to softly stroke Kits cheek. She shivered from the gentle contact of skin upon skin. Her eyes seemed to become lost within his. Her whole body seemed to relax as she edged a little closer to Kit. Iona thought her heart would leap right out of her chest if it beat any faster.

It was funny.
She'd been with so many men in her life. Yet she'd never felt like this before.

[Crazywolf]

As Iona reached up and touched his cheek Kit felt a tingle run down his spine. Now completely lost in the moment he slipped a hand around her waist and leaned forward to kiss her on the lips. The kiss was strong and passionate. Wrapping his around her own he savoured the sweet sensation of contact.

[BumblingBee]

Iona leaned into his touch almost instantly, suprising herself in the process. When their lips met she felt her heart practically soar. She didn't know it was possible to be this happy anymore. When the two finally parted for air, Iona simply remained, eyes closed and completely entranced within the moment. Once she trusted herself to speak again she dared to open her mouth
"Took you long enough"
Iona smiled and traced her fingers along his jaw lovingly

[Crazywolf]

"Yeah I guess it did" Kit murmured with a smile. His heart was still beating fast. He was now completely besotted and under her spell. He completely forgot that she was a princess or a witch or anything else, right then she was simply a beautiful woman and his desire for her was overwhelming. He leant forward to kiss her again.

[BumblingBee]

Iona smiled and didn't resist when he leaned forward. Slowly she let her hands trace down from his face delicately to his chest. She shivered at the touch. Iona suddenly chuckled softly. She looked up at Kit, delving into the depths of his eyes and smiling happily
"You bastard, I think I'm falling for you"

[Crazywolf]

"Who me?" he quipped. "You were the one who decided to get all up close and snuggly." Raising a hand he gently tousled her hair. He leant in to kiss her once more, this time going deeper. As he did so he twisted up on one knee and lent fully across her body wrapping her up inside his strong embrace.

[BumblingBee]

Iona couldn't help but smile. She let Kit lay her down gently on the soft grass. Looking up at him, into those eyes. She'd never wanted something so badly then she had then.

For a moment, a brief thought glimpsed in her mind. All the men she had been with before, all the objections, the times she was forced, all the false kisses. Completely forgotten within his arms. All she felt now was love. Truthful honest love.

[Crazywolf]

The Next Morning...

Kit was woken by the brightness of the morning sun. Looking down he saw the prone form of Iona asleep beside him, her head resting lightly on his shoulder. For a brief moment his mind went back to the previous night and how wonderful it had been. For a minute or so he was content to just lie there and let her sleep while admiring her beauty. Inwardly he wondered how long this thing between them could last. If she became queen she would be expected to marry a prince or a noble. Indeed every available noble in the kingdom would be queing up to offer their hand in marriage. In the end he decided that it was pointless to worry himself about such things that were in the future, he may as well just enjoy the present moment and make the most whatever time they had. He raised a hand and gently stroked her cheek to wake her.

[BumblingBee]

Iona hummed lightly and snuggled closer to Kit. She smiled lightly as she wrapped her arms around him. Her eyes fluttered open and glanced up to meet his dark ones.
"Morning"
She yawned and moved a little closer. The warmth of another person was comforting to her.
"Do we have to get up yet? I could lie here with you forever"

[Crazywolf]

Kit smiled enjoying the feel and warmth of her body next to his own. "Well I guess there's no real hurry" he replied.

Tilting his head slightly he gave her a light kiss on the cheek.

[BumblingBee]

Iona smiled. Her skin practically tingled from the contact.
"Gods don't, or I'll never get up"
Very reluctantly she sat up yawned and stretched. She looked down and smiled at kit, entwining her fingers within his.
"Come on then, we don't have far to go now"

[Crazywolf]

"Well that maybe so but I still need breakfast first" Kit replied. He looked up at her hopefully. "I don't suppose you could go and zap something?"

[BumblingBee]

Iona smiled and kissed him sweetly on the temple as she got up
"I'll see what I can do"
She picked up her scarf and wrapped it around her shoulders in a makeshift shawl as she wandered into the forrest.

Iona hadn't gone far when she found herself standing near the edge of a small rise. The forrest evened out into green fields and a little ways away in the distance Iona could see what looked like a small town. She smiled to herself happily, it looked like Kit would be able to have a cooked breakfast after all. As she turned to head back, she couldn't help but notice something. A sound coming from within the forrest.

Out of curiousity Iona began to follow the sound, as she got closer it revealed itself to be what sounded like a small child crying. Iona quickened her pace as the cries grew louder. Eventually she came across the child. He was a small boy no older than ten, sat down upon the grass with his legs outstretched. Tears were streaming down his faceand h looked very worried. Iona knelt down besides him concern crossing her face.
"Are you alright? What's wrong"
The boy could barley speak through stutters
"I-I tripped and now me leg hurts and I can move it!"
Iona tried her best to calm the boy
"Just hold on okay?"

She hovered her hands above the boys injured legs, and ever so slowly a gold light began to glow around them. The boys eyes widened as he watched. Rays of light seemingly emitted themselves into the biys leg. Iona suddenly frowned
"Wait a minute you're not even hurt"
In a flash the boy was on his feet, he yelled at the top of his lungs
"SHE'S ONE OF'EM LADS!"
Before Iona could even react she felt somethin hard come in contact with the back of her head. She was unconcious before she even hit the floor. A group of rough burly looking men gathered around her before roughly dragging her towards the village.

[Crazywolf]

Kit shoved a couple of extra branches on the campfire in anticipation then sat back down to wait. He sighed as he remembered he soft touch of her body. He knew that he had fallen in love but really there was nothing he could do to help it. With those thoughts playing in his mind he sat and waited for about fifteen minutes, but Iona didn't come back. After twenty minutes passed he started to feel concerned and decided to go and search for her. Picking up his sword he set off in the direction she had headed. Soon he came to the field at the edge of the woods with still no sign of her. Then suddenly he saw a bright object on the ground amidst the grass. Stooping down to pick it up he recognised it as Iona's scarf, he also saw that it had blood upon it. The discovery filled him with sudden fear. He wondered anxiously what could have happened to her. He knew then that he had to try and find her at once. He just hoped that wherever she was it wouldn't be too late. Looking ahead he saw the town and decided that it would be the best place to start looking. Moving quickly he set off.

[BumblingBee]

Iona's vision was blurry. Shapes and colours moved around her in a vague haze. She tried to lift her head but it drooped uncontrolably. She could feel a sharp pain being scratched through her knees. Angry shouts and insults could be heard all around her. She'd been in this situation before, it wasn't hard to tell what was happening. Iona was being dragged harshly through the streets as villagers cursed her name around her.

As her vision finally began to clear she looked up at the brutes who were holding her. They wore the seal of the King. This meant two things. For a start she wouldn't be dieing today, but for a second her death would most certainly be painful and awfully dragged out.

What suprised her the most was that none of these morbid thoughts worried her. Instead the only thing going through her mind was Kit. If he was discovered that he helped her in any way, he would most certainly be killed too, or worse. The very thought made Iona panic. She couldn't let that happen to him.

Looking up again she saw where her final destination was. A post set up in the middle of the square. The guards practically flung her at it before roughly tieing her to the post. The rope dug into her skin horribly but Iona did not show the guards any sign that she was in pain. What must have been the leader approached her, a horrib sneer plastered upon his face. He stood before her and the crowd fell silent. Nothing could be heard. The guard chuckled darkly, his fist rose suddenly punching Iona square in the jaw. The impact suprised her as her head swung from the action.

Practically growling she slowly turned her head back to face the guard. Straight smack in the eye, Iona spat at him.
This was probably not a good choice.

[Crazywolf]

As Kit approached the edge of town he could hear some noise in the centre. He wondered what could be going on. Cautiously he made his way up a street heading towards the main square. On reaching the square he beheld a crowd of people gathered round. And in the centre there was Iona tied to a post with several guards around her. Even from this distance he saw there was blood on the corner of her mouth. As he looked on one of the guards punched her in the face.

Fury flared up inside him. Shoving his way roughly through the crowd he whipped out his sword. As the townsfolk saw the blade they cried out in alarm and fell back. The nearest guard turned towards him and swung a pole-axe. Kit deflected the blow with his own weapon then bringing his sword sweeping down he sliced the man clean open from waist to shoulder. As his adversary collapsed he stepped forward over the body already swinging his sword into his next opponent. This time he severed a man's wrist causing him to drop to his knees crying out in anguish.

Giving the guards no time to respond or regroup he pressed onward moving and killing. He could tell the men had had some training but none of them were at his own level. Finally he stood face to face with the leader, a man who carried a large sword similar to his own. The man made a heavy swing which Kit parried. He almost slipped in a pool of blood but somehow kept his footing. As the man came at him again he made side-stepped his opponent's swing then thrust his own blade upward into the man's chest. The leader grunted and staggered forward against the blade. He made a gurgling sound as his mouth filled up with blood. With a look of scorn Kit wrenched the blade free and the other man collapsed lifelessly to the ground.

As the red mist lifted from his eyes he saw the dead bodies strewn around him. In his entire career he had never fought like that nor killed so many so fast. Once more his eyes feel on Iona tied to the post. Without hesitation he sheathed his sword and pulled out his dagger. Using the smaller blade he quickly cut through the bonds holding her in place. He was worried about how much she might have been hurt, but in that precise moment there was no time to ask about it. "Come on" he urged her "we have to leave immediately."

[BumblingBee]

Iona could barely comprehend what was happening around her. Her green eyes widened as Kit took down man after man right before her. Perhaps she shouldn't have been worried about him after all, he seemed capable of looking after himself. From shock or injury, Iona sank to her knees as soon as her hands were unbound. Shakily she rose to her feet, nodding at Kit.

She took his hand for balance before she collapsed. Iona could hear the whispers of the villagers around them already.
'Witch'
'Murderer'
'Demon'
'Unnatural'
Her breathing grew rapid as the world around her grew to be too much. She had to lean onto Kit for support.

[Crazywolf]

Kit wrapped his arm around her waist. Half supporting her and half physically dragging her along on her feet he led her toward the edge of the square. None dared stand in his way though several villages threw bits of stone at them. He raised his other arm to shield himself and grimaced as a couple of stones struck him. For a moment he didn't see how either of them were going to make it out of there but then in the street ahead he spotted an inn with a row of horses tethered up outside. Approaching the nearest animal he sit Iona sink to the floor while he untied the reigns. Turning back to Iona he offered her a hand to pull her up. "Come on" he said urgently " we have to mount up."

[BumblingBee]

Iona practically dragged herself up onto Kits horse. She wrapped her arms around his waist and buried her face into his shoulder. She couldn't face this, not anymore. It seems she couldn't go anywhere without this happening. She was far too numb with shock to feel anything really. Instead she simply let Kit guide her. At least there was someone in this world she could still trust.

[Crazywolf]

kit turned the horse out into the street and kicked hard with his heels. Stones whistled around them as the horse picked up speed and sped away. Behind them he heard angry shouts and curses but he didn't care. He felt oddly tired for some reason but he simply gritted his teeth and ignored it. All that mattered in his world was getting Iona to safety.

Leaving the town behind them they galloped along a road. Kit drove the animal hard and soon it was foaming at the mouth. Only once they reached some woodland further ahead did he allow it to slow down. Pulling tightly on the reigns he turned the horse off the road and under the trees. He then drove it onward for a further five minutes before easing up a little more letting the animal drop to a walk. He was worried about Iona behind him, he could feel her head against his shoulder, but at least she was still holding onto him which him gave some comfort.

Finally he spotted a good place to stop and reigned the horse to a halt. "Hey, are you okay?" he asked Iona, his voice full of concern. "If you want I can get down first and help you."

Holding the horse's mane he shuffled forward a bit onto the animal's neck giving himself room to swing over his leg and dismount. As soon as his feet touched the ground he immediately reached out toward Iona with both arms to help lift her down.

[BumblingBee]

Iona nodded weakly
"I'm fine"
She was really too. The only injuries she'd sustained were a bust lip and a small cut to her cheek. She was more shaken up than anything. Iona reached down gladly accepting Kits offer of help. She was still a little shakes but she could stand on her own two feet now at least.

She leaned against a tree and sighed heavily, running her hands through her dark hair. Now that the shock was wearing off the reality of what had just happened began to kick in. Iona tried her hardest but tears began to form. Her voice was t much more than a whisper
"I'm sorry"
She let her face sink into her hands
"I'm sorry, I should've been more on guard, but I was feeling so happy for once I-"
She had to cut herself off in fear of the inevitable.

[Crazywolf]

Kit immediately put his arm around her to offer comfort. "No please don't apologise" he said. "Really it was my fault. I never should have asked you to walk off on your own like that. When I think what nearly happened and what did happen..." He broke off slightly. "I just thank the gods I found you again in time. If I hadn't I wouldn't have been able to live with myself."

[BumblingBee]

Iona snaked her arms around his waist and Burris her face into his chest. She couldn't tell what she was crying from now, the shock or Kits sweet words of comfort. Surprisingly she found herself chuckling softly. Iona looked up at Kit, a small smile upon her face. She lifted her hand and stroked his cheek softly
"My knight in shining armour"
She rose up and kissed him lovingly
"What would I do without you?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit blushed slightly then smiled. In that moment he felt more in love with her than ever. It was also a love mingled with mighty relief. Then abruptly he gave a slight wince of pain.

[BumblingBee]

Iona's eyes instantly widened in fear. She cupped his face looking him over intently
"Kit?!"
Her voice was frantic. She couldn't lose him. Not now.
"Gods, what's wrong?! Are you hurt?!"

[Crazywolf]

"Really it's nothing" he said doing his best to reassure her. "It's just a minor cut. I've taken worse hits before." As he spoke he winced again. In the side of his leather jerkin was a large bloody gash.

[BumblingBee]

Iona crouched down slightly, frowning
"Minor cut my arse"
As gently as she could she inspected the wound with her hands. Worry flashed across her face but she tried not to show it. Iona stood up slightly and grabbed his arm gently
"Here sit down so I can have a better look"

[Crazywolf]

Kit frowned. "Ok if you want" he conceded. "But please don't worry too much, it's really not that bad." He sat and pulled off his jerkin then lifted his shirt. Underneath was an ugly cut across the side of his torso. Unknowingly to Kit it had been bleeding somewhat and made a bit of a mess.

[BumblingBee]

Iona winced herself as she saw the wound in full. As kit lifted his shirt however, she had to stop her eyes from wandering. She gave herself a little shake and inspected kits wound a little more.
"Hmmm"
Iona rooted about in her satchel and pulled out a cloth. She looked up at Kit sympathetically
"This might sting a little, sorry"
As delicately as she could, Iona began to dab and clean at the wound.

[Crazywolf]

Kit did his best to keep still while she cleaned the wound. He thought about all the injuries he'd received in the past. It was definitely another scar for the collection. He knew the muscle round it would be stiff and sore for a good while. But compared with what could have happened to Iona such matters as his own discomfort really seemed quite trivial. He worried that if they had to fight again the injury would slow him down, and indeed he felt quite certain that it would. He pulled out his flask to take on some water.

"So what now?" he asked. "This place of yours must be pretty close. I just wish there was a herbalist nearby, right now I could do with some poppy seeds."

[BumblingBee]

Still never taking her eyes off the wound, Iona continued to clean it up.
"We're a few miles easy of the place, we'll probably get there by evening"
Iona finished her work and secured the wound in a neat bandage. She tried to smile reassuringly up at Kit, cupping his cheek gently.
"That is of course if you're up for it today, I think we've both come out of that a bit battered and bruised"

[Crazywolf]

Kit smiled back as she cupped his cheek. "I'm happy to carry on if you are" he replied. "Just so long as you're up for to yourself. If it's this close we might as well press on and find it. Besides, we now have transportation so we don't need to walk anymore."

[BumblingBee]

Iona nodded and gathered her things. She walked over to the horse and looked at Kit expectantly
"Well, come along then my brave knight"
She couldn't help but smile
"Your lady awaits"

[Crazywolf]

Kit smiled happily at the term 'brave knight'. He wondered if she would make him into a real knight if she gained the throne. Then he realised he was getting ahead of himself, they didn't even know how they were going to do it yet.

He walked up to the horse and then with a grunt he swung himself up into the saddle and then waited for her to join him.

[BumblingBee]

Iona stepped up onto the horse delicately, she snaked her arms around Kits waist and smiled happily.
"Off we go then"
And so they did.

The two travelled throughout the day. Iona was almost constantly looking at her map. Her voice and tone gained in excitement the closer they got. In truth she had no idea what they would find upon arrival. She didn't even know what the place technically was. All she knew, was that she was promised it would help reclaim her throne.

The sun began to set in the sky, casting a gentle orange hue upon the world. Suddenly Iona practically leapt off the horse and belted into the woods.

[Crazywolf]

As they rode Kit enjoyed the feel of Iona's arms round his waist. It brought to mind the closeness of the previous night. But with a mental effort he managed to stay focused and alert for any further danger. It was to his surprise when she suddenly leapt off the horse and bolted into the trees. "Hey wait" he called out. Wincing slightly he dismounted and set off after her leading the horse by the reigns.

[BumblingBee]

Iona had stopped. Her eyes were locked firmly on the map, hands trembling ever so slightly. This was it. She was finally here. All those years spent dreaming, hoping just waiting to get a glimpse of this place. In a sense, she was almost afraid to lift her head and look at her mystery place. Out of the corner of her eye she could see Kit approaching.

It was now or never.

Very slowly, she lowered the map and looked up.

It was a cave.
An incredibly large cave, spanning at least a good few miles.
But it was still, just, a cave.

Iona blinked a few times before burrying her head in her hands and screaming.

[Crazywolf]

Kit heard the scream and came through the trees to find her standing there head in hands.

"What is it?" he asked. "What's wrong?"

[BumblingBee]

"It's a cave, it's just a bloody cave!"
Iona had to stop herself from throwing the map into the dirt. Instead she stuffed it into her satchel angrily. Practically growling she began to pace around the small clearing.
"All my life I've hoped- DREAMED of this moment, and what do I find when I bloody get there?!"
She motioned to the cave before them
"A SODDING CAVE!"
Her rage continued for quite some time until it fizzled away into sorrow. She rested her head against a tree panting from emotion. She motioned with her hands in desperation
"For once in my life, I just wanted to be accepted..."
Her arms flopped to her sides and she simply sighed sadly, sniffing back tears.

[Crazywolf]

Seeing the tears Kit wrapped an arm around her shoulders. "Well haven't you thought that there might be something in there?" he said. "I don't know what exactly you expected to find here but we might as well go in and look."

[BumblingBee]

Iona huffed but accepted the affection happily. She wrapped her arms around Kit, a soft frown planted on her face
"I suppose we could look"
She walked over to the Cave a little, clambering over some rocks in the process.
"We could always shelter here for the night I guess, it might be a little chilly but..."
She couldn't help but smirk mischeviously
"I think I know a way we could keep warm"

[Crazywolf]

"Oh really?" Kit smiled as he followed her toward the cave. Her comment distracted him completely, as they approached the cave entrance he found it impossible to think about anything else. Already inside his mind he was imagining her naked.

[BumblingBee]

As the two wandered into the cave they found it a lot larger than originally thought. A lot larger. It was practically pitch black within the setting sun. Iona went a little ways before stopping.
"Perhaps we should stop here for the night?"
She shrugged casyually and plopped herself down with a content sigh
"It'll probably be easier exploring in the morning anyway, what with the daylight and everything"

[Crazywolf]

Kit shrugged. "Well if you think so" he replied. "After all you're the one paying me right?" He gave her a playful smile to show that he was joking. He then dropped down to sit beside her.

"Seriously though" he added, "I think that when we explore this thing we are going to need torches."

[BumblingBee]

Iona couldn't help but smile
"Pfffft, torches"
She lifted her hand, palm facing upwards. With a satisfing swish like flick, her hand seemed to spark before catching ablaze. A small red flame flickered elegantly within her hand. She swirled her fingers daintily causing the flame to sliver inbetween them.
"Who needs torches when you've got me?"
She chuckled softly to herself before extinguishing the flame with a swift blow to her hand. Smiling happily she shuffled up to Kit and rested her head upon his shoulder. Iona entwined her fingers within his and let out a content sigh.

[Crazywolf]

Kit smiled and wrapped a strong arm around her middle. After what had happened earlier that day he was just so relieved that she was safe and well. "Well" he said " I guess we should get some rest then." removing his sword he lay back and stretched himself out on the floor waiting for her to snuggle up and join him.

[BumblingBee]

Iona smiled. Almost instantly she lay down beside him, laying an arm across his chest and resting her head upon his shoulder. She wrapped the blanket around the two of them neatly and sighed contently. A comfortable silence settled between them. Iona looked up a little at Kit. Smiling she leaned up a little and pressed a gentle kiss to his lips. Her hand caressed his cheek softly
"I'm so glad I found you"

[Crazywolf]

Kit smiled up at her and once more wrapped his arm around her. "I know" he murmured "I feel the same." Raising the other hand he ran his fingers gently though her hair. Suddenly all the other stuff going on seemed quite unimportant. He felt like they could just lie like that forever.

"Well my beautiful queen I suppose we should both get some sleep" he sighed reluctantly.

[BumblingBee]

Iona giggled blushing a little. She fell into him happily, snuggling up closely once more. She sighed contently, safe within his arms
"If you insist, O brave Knight"
Ans she fell asleep with a smile on her face and her heart frantically fluttering within her chest.

[Crazywolf]

Kit smiled once more as she called him her brave knight. It was a title he was becoming rather fond of. Following her lead he closed his eyes and slowly drifted off to sleep.

[BumblingBee]

As contented as Iona was her sleep was still troubled. Her dreams plagued her mind.

She was standing on a balcony. The bright sun shone directly into her eyes, hazing her vision. A distant chorus of cheers and laughter could be heard all around her. She brought up her arm to shield her vision. Just in front of her she could make out the faint silhouette of a man. He was tall and broad with jet black hair similar to her own. He had a bold proud stance about him.

Iona stepped forwards hesitantly. As she did his features became clearer. Suddenly, she recognised who he was. Her eyes widened as she reached the man. She stood beside him as he turned to look at her. He motioned to the huge crowd below.
"Look child"
She did as she was told, stepping forwards and peering over the balcony. All of the people within the crowd were smiling happily. They waved banners and flags, some sung while others cheered. Some in particular even waved. Their happiness was so infectious Iona couldn't help but smile and wave back. She looked over to the man
"What is this?"
He looked on
"It could be your future"
Iona could practically feel her heart racing
"Really?"
The man nodded but did not smile
"Depending on the decisions you make, you could be the most generous queen avoria has ever seen"
Iona was so distracted by the crowd she didn't notice the sky rapidly darkening. Thunder rumbled ahead and the sky itself turned blood red. Fire rained from above burning all below. The once merry cheers now turned to sad mournful screaming.

Iona stepped back from the balcony hands shaking
"W-what's happened?"
The kings voice grew dark
"Your downfall, that's what..."
He turned to look. At her, in the process his face began to mutate horribly. Twisting and melding into a face she wished she could forget.

The man who had killed her father stood before her, eyes roaming over her body lustfuly and hands beginning to roam in places they should not. She screamed and tried to break free of his grip but she could not. Suddenly she saw the silver flash of a knife. Blood splattered her vision. Darkness was consuming her.

Iona sat up screaming.
It had all been just a dream.
No.
A nightmare.

[Crazywolf]

Kit heard the scream and woke with a start. In the dark gloom of the cave she was just little more than a shadow sat beside him. His heart was beating fast as he looked round for danger.

"What's wrong?" he asked, his voice filled with concern.

[BumblingBee]

Iona wiped at her eyes fiercely as she took deep breaths.
"Nothing it's nothing. I'm fine"
She gave herself a little shake and told herself to get it together. Looking around the gloom she could barely make out Kit beside her. She squinted through the darkness. A thin sliver or orange light was peeking through the cave enterance. The sun was rising.

Iona sighed, yawned and rose to her feet slowly. Smiling she looked down at Kit
"I'm sorry I woke you, I didn't have the best nights sleep truth be told"

[Crazywolf]

Kit looked at her still feeling concerned. He rose to his feet and gently took hold of her hands. "Hey you know you can tell me anything you want right? If your worried or upset you don't need to hide it."

[BumblingBee]

Iona smiled reassuringly at him
"I'm fine, truly I am"
She rose up on her tiptoes to kiss him softly
"Thank you for your concern though"
She turned to face forward and wandered ahead a little. Hands held neatly behind her back she called out
"So, think we'll find anything in here?"

[Crazywolf]

"I really don't know" he replied truthfully. "I hope we do but that map of yours could be very old."

As he spoke he heard his stomach rumble. He sighed inwardly. Why was it they never seemed to have any food available? He would have liked to stop and look for breakfast, but even now people might be hunting for them. Also he saw Iona was keen to get exploring. Grabbing his sword he set off after her. "I think it's time for your light-trick" he commented.

[BumblingBee]

Iona nodded. With a swish of her hand and bright red flame appeared as it had the night before. It lit the small area around them allowing them to see a little around them. The two walked on deeper and deepe into the cave. As they did something became noticeable. The walls of the cavern were covered in precious rocks and metals. Veins of gold and silver ore ran up mad down the walls elegantly. The floor began to become worn and smooth, almost like marble.

Iona was In fact so in awe of her surroundings she walked right into a wall. Groaning she rubbed her head. The problem was it wasn't in fact a wall she had bumped into. It was a head.

The head of a rather large dragon

[Crazywolf]

kit's eyes widened at the sight of gold seams. His mind was immediately ticking away pondering how they could use the discovery to their advantage. To that end the dragon caught him by surprise just as much as Iona. Oh frack he thought. The situation was precarious in the extreme. Recovering his wits slightly he drew his blade and then called out to Iona. "Don't make any sudden moves. Just back off slowly."

[BumblingBee]

Iona froze completely. Very slowly, she backed away a little, but it was too late. The dragon was awakening.

It uncoiled itself like a snake would. Large tail unravelling to reveal the colossal body and wings hidden beneath. It truly was enormous, bigger than any house or castle Iona had ever seen. It's scales were as thick as the strongest armour, coloured a pretty emerald green. Wings stretched out and flapped a little in relaxation. The motion almost blew Iona away completely, she practicaly had to cling to Kit to keep herself upright.

The dragon was standing now. What seemed like an eternity passed in complete silence. Not a breath could be heard. Then the dragon opened its eyes. The were a burning amber as deep and passionate as fire itself, the dragon lowered its head to be level with the two. A distant growling and hissing could be heard from within its chest. When it spoke his voice was low and as gravelly and rumbling as thunder. His words however came as a suprise.
"Well you took your damn time"
Iona (Who had been cowering behind Kit for awhile now) was rather shocked to say the least. She opened her eyes and dared to peek over Kits shoulder
"W-what?"

[Crazywolf]

Kit watched in trepidation as the dragon spread itself, knowing it was futile to run. When the creature spoke it took him completely off-guard. How the frack did it know they were coming?

[BumblingBee]

Without warning, the dragon moved forwards and in a single swis of it's wing ... hand thingy, it grabbed Iona. She couldn't even react or fight back (Not that she would've anyway she was so dazed) the dragon had its talons wrapped firmly around her. She felt sick as she was lifted high high above the safety of the ground below. Ionas head was swimming and she couldn't seem to focus on anything.

On all the ways she could've died she'd never expected this.

Surprisingly the dragon released his grip, and the shocked Iona simply fell down in it's palm. She sat up slowly, still groaning. As she recovered the Dragon had wrapped its wings around himself, creating a shield of sorts. It blocked all sound and light from outside (And did the same from the other side). The only light Iona could see was the warm glow pulsing from within the creatures chest.

[Crazywolf]

Kit was understandably shocked when the dragon suddenly snatched Iona away. "Hey" he yelled "let her go!" In desperation he flung himself forward and swung his sword against it's wings.

[BumblingBee]

The Dragons wings repelled Kits attack easily. His sword practically bounced off the scaley skin of the creature. Iona could her Kits attempt from within the little Wing Cave she found herself in. She looked around desperately, her form was crouched low in fear. Slowly she looked up at the Dragon, in a voice barley more audible than a whisper she asked
"What do you want with me?"
She could have sworn the Dragon smirked rather smugly
"Payment is all"
Iona tilted her head in confusion. She rose to her feet frowning in puzzlement
"Payment? I don't understand"
The Dragon chuckled softly. The motion seemed to cause the entire cavern around them to quake.
"Nor should you, let me introduce myself"

The creature stood up straight and outstretched its wings revealing Iona to the dim light of the cavern once more. She squinted slightly as her eyes adjusted to the light, soon enough however they found Kits form. Iona practically leapt from the Dragon and rushed over to Kit. She took his hand in hers and stood behind him ever so slightly. The Dragon had rose to full height now, Iona was surprised he could fit in the cavern. His head just brushed the ceiling, he truly was colossal.

[Crazywolf]

Kit interposed himself between Iona and the dragon. He felt afraid it would grab her again. But the fear also made him angry. He was determined not to let the dragon see that he was afraid of it. "What do you want? why did you take her?" he demanded.

[BumblingBee]

The Dragon seemed to frown slightly
"I said, Let me introduce myself first"
It tutted and shook its head a little
"Impertinent boy"
It turned its attention once more to Iona. Seemingly smiling that smug smirk once more. Iona couldn't help but shiver a little.
"I am known to you mere mortals as Dianthus"
He pointed a talon at Iona
"And you, oh I know who you are. Iona, last kin of Davan. I am correct, no?"

Iona gave a feeble nod. In a voice that was trying to sound brave (yet was failing miserably) she spoke up
"I still don't understand. What did you mean by payment?"
Dianthus chuckled darkly
"I would have thought it obvious really"
Iona shrunk back a little as the Dragon slithered dangerously closer
"The question is how should I demand payment? Your youth? Your joy? ... Your life?"

[Crazywolf]

"You're not taking any of those things" Kit butted protectively, jabbing with his sword. It took all his will to stand his ground. The dragon really was rather big. "Why should she pay you anyway?"

[BumblingBee]

Dianthus was growing impatient. He leaned back slightly with a heavy sigh
"It's not just her, The whole of the Davan family owe me and probably will for years to come"
The looks of confusion were begining to annoy the dragon, thouroughly. Huffing he moved forwards until his head was level with the two. The creature was so colossal his head was bigger than Iona and Kit combined. A slender talon slithered forwards.
"Girl, give me your hand"
Iona was trembling, but not wanting to anger the Dragon, she gingerly outstretched her arm. With a suprisingly gentle touch, Dianthus balanced Ionas hand upon his talon. The tip ever so slightly pricking her skin. Iona did not wince, though it was tricky.

Suddenly without Ionas command, a flame burst into life within her palm. As usual it flickered and spat fat yellow sparks. A toothy smile grew upo Dianthus' face. His amber eyes flicked upwards and met Ionas gaze. His stare was unerving, it seemed to burn into her very soul. She shivered slightly.
"Do you see now?"
She clearly did not. Dianthus grumbled. Sitting up in a movement so quick it made the ground shake, Dianthus frowned softly.
"Clearly the ignorance of humans still knows no bounds"
He turned his back on them and began to walk away slightly. He made his way to a corner of the cavern and settled himself fown until he was comfortable.
"I shall try to enlighten you, but from your looks it could take some time"
He motioned to the space before them
"Well? Sit"

Iona looked to Kit, concern evident on her face. She didn't like this place. She wanted nothing more than to just go back outside and huddle around a fire in Kits arms. Sadly that didn't look likely anytime soon.

[Crazywolf]

Kit watched with some trepidation as Iona gave over her hand. Not that he really could have done much. He saw the spark of fire however the whole charade only served to leave him confused. When the dragon backed off to sit down he turned to Iona and whispered quietly. "You don't have to stay" he said. "If you want to leave I can try and distract him while you escape."