The Rod of Seven Parts ::NIT-Haru-IGW::

[NumberThreeInordinate]

Jynx winced as Sybille flicked her nipple and glared at her.
"Hey, these are sensitive. Just cause yours are hiding doesn't mean you can abuse mine."
She said as Elri giggled and shook her head.
"Inverted nipples aren't unusual, they're rare but not unusual. Ease up J."
Jynx frowned as she did as Elri said mainly because she was her elder and in the Shadowfang clan, elders had authority.
"By the way, word has spread about this mission of yours J. Your father wishes to speak to you about that."
Jynx nodded as she knew her father would want to speak with her. Looking over at Marek she smiled.

"I'll find some lovely kitties for you to play with after we chat with my father. Don't shift again, just stay as you are. Everyone here can tell you're different so being open about it is better than trying to hide it."
With that said, they sat in the bath for a bit longer before they got out, dried off and re-dressed. Heading to a large home, about sixty feet up, Jynx had Sybille and Marek standing in front of a male Shadowfang who was sitting on a large chair with several armed guards around him. The male smiled as he stood from his chair and walked over to Jynx, hugging her and pressing his forehead against hers.
"My kitten. Welcome home. What's this I hear about some adventurer's mission?"

Jynx went into detail about the mission that the Black Sovereign gave her then went into detail about the red headed adventurer who'd been tailing her to Vigill as well as the black hooded males who Layla got a hold of, showing part of the cloak that didn't get digested by Layla. The male was quiet the entire time till he frowned.
"This job seems to have a lot of dangers and very few rewards. Pitting so many adventurer's against one another with little to no information sounds more like a killing field than a quest..."
The male got very quiet before looking at Elri who nodded.
"I will permit you to leave on this...only if Elri joins you. This is a very dangerous quest that has a very high mortality rate. I want you to have some skilled back up. If this is a problem. Then my child will not be joining you and you will leave our home immediately."

Her father said as he looked at Sybille and Marek. Jynx wasn't going to fight her father, he'd been around for much longer than she had and with her mother having been killed by adventurer's, she knew he had a slight dislike for how greedy and self centered adventurer's could be.

 

[ImaginationGoneWild]

For a bunch of assassins they do seem to care a great deal of each other. Sybille listened when Shadow explained how strangers of various races were eventually accepted within their Clan. It didn't matter to them what your origins were, only who you are now.

It kind of reminded her her sailing days. A pirate crew was sometimes kind of like a family...when greed didn't get in the way. For a brief moment Sybille had a sad look about her when reminiscing.

Oh well, the sadness was gone when it was hard to ignore a blue horned monk with a erection that made most men shy away. Marek seemed like a such a wise man when she talked to him, but on sexual level he was still a bit on the awkward side. The thought made her giggle, although she didn't mean any disrespect by it.

After a while everybody got out of the pool and got ready to see the father of Shadow and presumably the Clan leader. Their conversation went well, Shadow explained what the mission was and Marek and Sybille provided any information needed to support the rumors about this quest. However when the Clan leader decided that Elri should join them or they could kiss their partnership goodbye, Sybille was faced with a dilemma.

Refuse the condition and loose working with a Shadowfang and possibly their resources and contacts on their travels? Or accept the condition and gain not 1 but 2 Shadowfang within their group...Sybille swallowed her pride and shook the leader's hand with a firm nod, "Agreed. We can use all the help we can get. And I understand the need to give your daughter the extra backup." She said with a polite smile.

She gave the Drow a brief look of reluctant acceptance before she walked away. "I'm going to head back to our hut, prepare for the trip." she said as she left the meeting.

Back at the hut she was sitting on her bed, rubbing her face. She was having a migraine due to the whole situation. Why did she accept this quest? It was a suicide mission, everyone saw it so why did she accept it? Perhaps it was the old stories of her old tutor as a child that haunted her. How the Rod of Law was used in a war against the Chaos Queen, a Rod that banished a powerful demon lord to some other realm...If the Rod gets in the wrong hands then they were all doomed, that rift north of Numera was only the beginning.

She had to see the pieces for herself. If they turned out fake then she could always drop the quest...

 

[Haruchai]

​

Nodding that he understood, Marek stayed just as he was, though watched the women as they bantered back and forth, eyes drawn to their very nice breasts, the three of them, despite himself. His arousal refused to go away, so with a bit of concentration he forced it to subside, using his shape-shifting powers to do so. Which gave him an idea. His stamina was lacking, and he was inexperienced, yet he could change the pleasure receptors and make himself last longer! At least until he became more experienced. That way at least none of the females he was with would feel cheated if he normally did not last long. Shadow promised him some kitties to play with and he nodded eagerly.

Now that he had a plan, and had forced his erection to disappear - even though he could still feel it himself - Marek relaxed in the spring, taking in the bountiful sights and enjoying their company. So when they decided they needed to go he wasn't shy about getting out of the water and drying off, and then getting dressed in his simply clothing.

The meeting with Shadow's father went as he might expect, and he eyed Elri to see what she thought on the matter. It seemed the drow didn't mind, and Marek sure didn't! He bowed to the Chieftain, or however he was addressed and clasped the male's hand to seal the deal if necessary.

Sybille excused herself and Marek took a few moments to grab some more food from the eating area before heading back to the hut as well. He looked concerned as he saw Sybille. "Are you alright?" he asked, taking a seat nearby as he looked at her with concern.

 

[NumberThreeInordinate]

After the meeting Jynx spent some time talking to her father before going and finding these 'kitties' that she'd mentioned earlier. While she was doing that and Marek was getting some food, Elri followed Sybille to her hut and stood in the doorway with her hands behind her back as she watched the younger female for a moment. Clearing her throat she sighed.
"While I understand your distaste for my kind. I have some things I'd like to point out. You and I have never met. I have not wronged you in any way, nor have you wronged me. Whether or not you've dealt with my kind or not isn't a concern here as it was not me as an individual. You are of adult age now, so. Act like one. This is a dangerous mission and the more people that can act as combatants the better. My job here is to protect J and make sure she returns safely. Your personal thoughts on me are not my concern and as long as you can do your duty and get along with the squad we will have no issues. I personally have no problems with you but if my race is going to cause you grief...then you shouldn't be tagging along."

Hearing Marek she tapped her temple.
"Think about it Sybille. Are you willing to be an adult and do the job or be childish and rely on old stories that were from before your time?"
Turning around, Elri left moments before Marek showed up. Going to her own home she began packing her bag and getting her own companion ready for the trip. Nalla, her Ravager, was midnight black in color with a soft grey underbelly and canary yellow eyes. It was her eyes that had stuck out the most to Elri when she was a kitten. That and black was such a rare color for Ravager's. Stroking Nalla's neck she smiled at the massive feline.
"We're going on a long journey. According to Jynx we're sure to have fun."
She said as Nalla nuzzled her neck then laid down so to rest and make sure she was ready to go when needed.

About half an hour later, Jynx came walking up to Marek as he was in his hut and behind her were three feline females who were all looking at him with shameless excitement. Jynx stepped off to the left and motioned extravagantly to the females.
"Found those kitties. They'll take VERY good care of you and show you how to use that tree trunk between your legs."
Looking back at the females she smiled and leaned into the taller female, whispering just loud enough for Marek and Sybille to barely hear.
"If he can still walk, I'll consider it a failed session."
The females all licked their lips and giggled as they walked over. Each one was very curvy in all the right ways and were very...gifted...in bust and butt. They grabbed both his arms and his shirt before dragging him up a few flights of stairs to a large hut that the three shared and shut the wooden door.

Jynx looked at Sybille and shrugged.
"He'll be busy. I'm sure if you visit our tavern you can find a male to make your night much more interesting. You've been cleared by our Shaman and our males do love some exotic meat. Just don't act snobby and high class and I'm sure you'll catch a male....ya know what. Just don't speak. I have a feeling acting snobby is just basic nature for you."
Which, Jynx had to admit that was a bit of her own dislike for high borne elves coming out there but she didn't press it any further as she felt Elri tap her shoulder and when she looked Elri was shaking her head, hooking her arm in Jynx's.
"I'll buy you a drink. Come on kitty."
She said as she pulled Jynx toward the large ground level structure which was the clan tavern.

 

[ImaginationGoneWild]

Her moment of privacy was over when the Drow unexpectedly visited her. Sybille listened to her but her body language made it clear she wasn't happy getting this speech. She really wanted to go off on the woman but refrained from doing so. It wasn't her first time working alongside Drow, she could be professional just fine but that doesn't mean she had to be best friends with them. And she thought she proved that at the meeting. When the Drow said her final words before leaving, "They're not just old stories though..." she said in a low voice receiving a glare from the Dark Elf. She knows that the Drow knew what she meant by that. Elri may be the outcast of her people but that doesn't always mean that they follow the High Elven ways. Most of them adopt risky professions for a reason. Pain and bloodshed still runs through their blood, or so Sybille was of the opinion.

She watched the Dark Elf leave and not much later Marek was the one that joined the hut. When he asked her is she was fine she said, "Oh. I'm fine. Just stressed about the mission. But it's not new to feel this way. Every mission an adventurer accepts is dangerous."

Their conversation got interrupted by 3 beautiful felines, and Shadow escorting them, who were -very- eager to meet Marek. It made Sybille chuckle, "For a 'virgin' you get around a lot there, monk." And just like that the 3 women practically dragged him to the upper levels of the hut. "It's like he might die..." Sybille muttered to herself, the man was getting laid as if he'd never be getting laid again.

She continued to pack...actually she didn't have to. Sybille didn't bring anything with her but the clothes on her back and her rapier and a water-skin. She was technically ready to leave. Jynx was telling her that she could always visit the tavern of this village to look for a companion for the evening before they had to leave. But then the comments about her nobility returned. "Look, I never meant to act snobby! Let it go already!"

Before the argument escalated Elri returned and convinced the feline to visit the tavern herself. She didn't really thanked the Drow but she was more relaxed which she was sure the Elf would've noticed. She decided to lay down and get some sleep...

But...

A leaf fell down on her face, she picked it up and looked at it with a confused frown. Well, they were in a tree house of sorts but when she looked up and noticed how quiet it was down here...it made it all the more clear how -fucking- loud everything was upstairs. Bed creaking, wooden boards creaking, the pleasure moans of felines with a purring quality to their voices, sounds of skin slapping, a Marek that seemed to let out a grunt or two...She could've sworn she heard him let out a joyous squeal...as if he just discovered a new sweet spot.

"..." Sybille got up and walked out the tent. For a brief moment she looked down the forest path towards the tavern, pondering whether or not she should take up on Jynx offer to bed one of their males. "If they all act like her then I'll pass. They'll probably have one of those 'put the noble in her place' fantasies." Which Sybille didn't mind, she enjoyed them from time to time. But she had done those way too often...

Instead she just wandered around the more remote paths, exploring the outer edges and wilder places of this village till she was ready for bed.

 

[NumberThreeInordinate]

As night fell upon the forest, Elri helped Jynx back to her home and let the feisty kitty sleep off her mead while she went to speak to her father since the male had asked her to drop by before turning in for the night. Walking into the hut she spotted the male sitting on a chair looking at a painting of his deceased mate.
"Tomorrow night then?"
The male smiled a sad smile.
"Correct. Would you mind?"
"Of course not Toka. I'll make sure everything is prepared."
Giving the male a pat on his back she left and headed home to get some sleep.

When morning came, Elri checked on Jynx who was up and packing a few more things that she'd need.
"Jynx, tonight..."
"I know."
Elri nodded and left as she knew this was a tender subject and she had a feeling that Jynx wasn't too happy about having two adventurer's here as well. Still, for that elf female, this may be a good way for her to see a new side that no one outside the clan sees. Jynx made herself very scarce for the adventurer's that day but Elri did go find the two in the dining hall area, around mid day as that was when the three females finally let Marek out of the hut. He certainly looked very happy, but he also looked like he was famished as he was stuffing his face and downing water. The three females were a bit farther down the table looking chipper and happy as well.

Walking over to the pair, Elri sat down beside Marek and smirked.
"You look much...lighter. Loose a few pounds in seed did we?"
She asked with a giggle before sobering and sighing.
"Tonight is a very special night for J and her father as well as the clan. You two. Just remain silent. Don't try offering words of comfort or things like that. It's just a time of remembering."
She was mainly speaking to Marek as she knew how Monk's could be. Patting his shoulder she pointed to a large open area within eye shot.
"Just pick a place to stand, you'll see members heading that way as night falls."

With that, she nodded and left and for the rest of the day it was obvious that it was a special time as the clan was surprisingly quiet and seemed to just be preparing for tonight. A large pile of wood being gathered and formed like a burial platform. Where a body would be laid, was a row of white flowers and scented herbs. When the clan began gathering, they were all in combat gear. Each wearing their armor, but no masks. Forming a semi-circle around the wooden platform. Right in front of the platform was Jynx as well as Elri who was holding an Elven flute in her hand. There were a few other members holding string instruments, one who was sitting behind some deer skin drums, and a harp. Jynx had a lot of pain showing in her face as she stood there and as soon as her father took a spot in front of her, the music started and the pain in Jynx's voice carried through the forest like a lost soul as she sang. While the music was playing, the male who'd spoken to Jynx when she first appeared at home yesterday was standing beside Marek and Sybille. In perfect unison, every member drew their swords and stuck them into the ground as they dropped to a knee and bowed while the platform was lit. That male spoke just loud enough for Sybille and Marek to hear.

"Twelve years ago, J's mother was the clan Alpha female. She, like J, moonlighted as an adventurer because she loved the thrill. She teamed up with some adventurer's for a big job like this one. Her adventurer partners killed her in her sleep after retrieving the treasure to shorten the list of reward holders. What very few know is that our clan originally lived in the mountains. Her mother used to sing this song...so it's become tradition for J to sing this every year on the eve of her death...to remember her and our home. Elri tagging along isn't just for backup against outside forces. You, as adventurer's, are being watched like hawks. Just keep this in mind."
As he said this, the two would also notice that every clan member within ear shot of what he'd said were all looking at them as a warning that if they tried anything like those did to her mother, hell would be a welcomed sight.


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-w2m-TeLi6I

 

[ImaginationGoneWild]

Sybille woke up to find that Marek hadn't slept in his bed, and judging by the giggling she heard upstairs it seemed that his sexual escapades were still going. "The monk's got stamina, good to know." She muttered to herself. She took advantage to use the hot springs again this morning, figuring that perhaps today they would leave for their quest. But it was around noon that Elri broke the news to Sybille and Marek, after teasing the male some more, that tonight there was an event that Jynx needed to attend to first before leaving.

For a moment Sybille had an annoyed look to her till Elri hinted that it was a memorial of sorts. She reluctantly agreed but wasn't sure if she should join the ceremony, it wasn't really of their concern...

In the end out of respect Sybille joined the ceremony. Staying to the side with her hands laced in front of her and her head down in a slight bow. The song that Shadow sang was beautiful and thee emotion was clear in her voice. But when every Clan member bend aknee to pay respect to their fallen Alpha Sybille simply kept her head down but she listened to what the Shadowfang beside her had to say. It was interesting to hear a piece of their history.

...And then the hostility came back.

Tomorrow, she was going to leave this village and pick up the mission whether they liked it or not. She returned to her hut when the ceremony was over, making sure to leave respectfully and do as Elri told her. Not to say anything comforting or such. Back at the hut she decided to turn in early, getting as much sleep as she could.

 

[Haruchai]

​

The beautiful kittens certainly took care of him, and Marek found out one particular thing about himself. His stamina was extraordinary. His main problem was learning when to go faster, when to slow down, where he could put fingers and where not to, and all the little things that actually made sex fantastic. If there was an award for pounding a female into the bed nonstop until she passed out - Marek would win. But there was no true passion behind it, and he was learning to slow down and enjoy things and to make sure he took care of his lovers in ways besides deep penetration. Which was actually quite nice sometimes, but he needed to learn a tender touch. With the trio of females and their instructions, he soon began to learn just what he was doing besides wielding that rod between his legs and by the time morning came around each of them walked on wobbly legs and had bright smiles. Marek himself was also learning to control that drive of his, and he didn't pop a boner at every sighting of a bit of trim.

So by the time breakfast came Marek was replenishing his energy stores and he waved to Elri as she joined them, and nodded at her warning.

That evening he stood silently as the memorial proceeded, and like Sybille however, he frowned at the hostility. In one breath the clan said they accepted them and they were good, then the next they threatened them with death. It made absoluitely no sense, and frankly made them sound neurotic. He was starting to wonder why anyone would hire them if they turned on their supposed friends this quickly - employers would be turned on just as quickly if not moreso. So now Marek was starting to wonder how dependable they were.

Following Sybille back to where they were to sleep, he said nothing. Who knew what ears might be spying on them, despite how welcome they tried to make them feel. So Marek, having gotten no sleep the night before, also turned in.

 

[NumberThreeInordinate]

When morning came to the world the next day, both Jynx and Elri were standing at the southern entrance to the clan home with their specific Ravagers, each large feline packed down with their belongings, which was a grand total of two saddle bags that one would find on the sides of a horse and not on the sides of a large cat. They did however have two horses that the clan usually kept as mounts for merchants and other trading outsiders. Jynx was leaning against Layla's side with her armor and mask firmly in place, twirling a dagger in her hand as Elri was sitting on Nalla's back checking her arrows and making sure they were all good to go with their poisoned tips. Her bow resting over her shoulder. Seeing the two adventurer's, Jynx stopped twirling her dagger and put it back in it's sheath. Motioning to the horses she hopped onto Layla's back right as her father came walking over and pat Layla's side.

"Be safe kitten."
"Always Father. I'll see you when we're done."
The male nodded then looked to Elri who smiled and nodded. Her father then looked to the adventurers and gave them a nod.
"Safe travels."

With that, Jynx and Elri started off with Layla and Nalla, following behind the monk and Elf. Since Jynx had no real plan to go on the ocean she decided to speak up about two hours after leaving Fangwood.
"So? Which direction are you planning on going? There's a few ways to get to the mountains."
Jynx knew of a few beast folk that ran a service that allowed people to fly across the ocean on large winged mounts. It was obviously to a very specific group of people since it wasn't a cheap way of travelling simply because it was much faster than taking a ship. Still, this is where it helped having a lot of beast folk friends. She could also talk to her ocean faring friend as well. Either way she knew some people.

 

[ImaginationGoneWild]

The dark-haired Elf woke up in a better mood because today was the day they leave the Shadowfang Clan. First impressions were terrible here, or perhaps they just came along at a bad timing judging by the ceremony yesterday. But she already didn't care anymore. She got out of bed, gathered her things which was her outfit with a broad belt that held her rapier, the paperwork from the Black Sovereign, and a waterskin. After she was done braiding her hair she looked to the still sleeping form of Marek. She stood up and slapped him on the leg, "Hey, wake up! It's time to move." she said in a soft voice.

She waited for Marek to ready himself and suggested, "We should grab some breakfast while we're still here. We're supposed to meet the others at the southern entrance."

Meeting up with Elri and Shadow, which they now found out through Elri was named Jynx, Sybille greeted both women with a friendly nod and wave. Accepting one of the horses from the other Clan members that had escorted the creatures. Hers was a white one, and that's all she or her Creator knew of horses... The Clan leader joined them just as Sybille climbed on the horse. She returned the nod as the leader wished them well, and with that they went on their way.

*******************************************************************************************
Crossing the border between Lastwall and Nirmathas proved to be more difficult than they thought, even with the paperwork and seals presented. The crew found out the hard way that the nation of Nirmathas was not a fan of governments. In fact, the nation's idea for organisation was localized. Each village or town, and even the capital had their own governing authorities to represent them. Which means that every one has their own way of enforcing peace or getting justice, or handing out punishments. The crew will have to be extra careful here.

When Jynx questioned which direction they should take, Sybille answered, "We'll take a rest at Skelt which is another day or two depending if we push our...mounts." She said, not really sure how to call the collection of Horses and Giant Cats the size of a horse. "We should let our animals rest there before we continue through the Bloodsworn Vale. They reopened the trade route there, even got their own patrol there at Fort Thorn. We'll go through the mountains there to Korvosa." But then she added, as they calmly trotted across the grassy plains, "We can use a ship to Asir. Should give us some more rest during transport, because once we're in Rahadoum it's not going to be easy..."

They eventually arrived in Skelt. Skelt was an impressive city to behold, it was resting atop a cliff right next to where the Tourondel River cascading into a large waterfall. The city itself is only accessible by two ways; either by water-powered lifts that pulled you up towards the city, or by the ramps and drawbridges that covered the gaps between the cliffs. They figured it might be less stressful for the animals if they choose the latter option, the ramps. Looking down where the land drops down a river the crew could see a few lumber mills and mines dotting the riversides, there were even logs floating down the river.

The first thing Sybille said as they put the animals away in the stables was, "We should find an Inn or something,...preferably where one can have a bath." she almost squealed at the thought of it. In the end they decided on a Tavern that also served as an Inn called 'The Good Stone'. It was a decent enough place but it was clear it accommodated a more rougher clientele, particularly miners. So it was no surprise that the adventuring crew had to pay extra. But Sybille came from money so she offered to chip in for anyone else who struggled to meet the cost.

 

[Haruchai]

​

By the time morning arrived the morose ceremony from the night before had been forgotten by the happy-go-lucky monk, and Marek awakened as Sybille slapped his leg. Like most Fey and other Sylvan fold the changeling never truly settled into a deep slumber, despite how he looked. It was more of a meditative state. So his eyes opened and he smiled at the elf.

"Good morning Sybille! Sleep well?" he asked, entirely too chipper for someone this early in the morning. He quickly gathered his things and nodded enthusiastically as she suggested they grab food. It took a lot of fuel to enable to changing abilities, his cells quite dynamic in and of themselves. So after they grabbed some food they met up with Shadow and Elri. Seeing the Ravagers, and now feeling more confident in his relationship with both the Shadowfangs, he did move to pet one.

As Sybille spoke about the route she wanted to take, Marek pulled out the detailed map they had and looked at it, tracing with his finger as she spoke. The trip from Korvosa to Azir was fairly direct, but a very long ways. Along the coast. That would likely be the most treacherous part of the plan, as far as traveling went. But it was a decent route and easy enough to follow. If they felt the need to change it then they could do so as they went along.

Passing the river boundary proved difficult, but soon they were on the way to Skelt and that took several days. Whereas the women seemed to still be a bit stand-offish, Marek was happy and friendly. He'd changed back into his human monk form as they traveled, and tried a variety of tricks to get either of the Ravagers to let him play with them or pet them... and did the same with all three women he traveled with. He never seemed to get discouraged by them, and he and Elri seemed to be the mediators between Shadow and Sybille. They were being polite, but some tension still existed.

Skelt was a chance for them to separate for a bit and relax however, and Marek was all for that. He had to accept Sybille's offer to help pay, but by now that was a given, as he now had very little money. He'd named his horse "Crown", sort of as a joke, but the horse really did shine, and looked golden in color. Marek had made fast friends with the mount, which was a good thing, and as they settled on 'The Good Stone' as a place to bed down for the night, Marek saw Crown to the stables.

When he joined the others in the common room he was smiling, almost mischievously. "So who's sleeping with who tonight?" he asked with a wink as he took a seat.

 

[NumberThreeInordinate]

Unlike Sybille and Marek, Jynx and Elri had a bit of trouble putting their mounts in the stables for obvious reasons. Just like getting through some of the last check points. Humans for whatever reason got very skittish when they saw two Ravagers, even though they were tamed and obviously not hurting anyone. The border between Lastwall and Nirmathas was a joke as the humans there had tried some pretty shady things, almost picking a fight with Jynx and saying that her kind wasn't allowed because they were feral. Jynx was about to show them just how feral she could be but Marek's silver tongue got the humans to cool off slightly which put Jynx in a fairly sour mood for the time that they were in that area. By the time they got to the inn, she'd cooled down.

Stroking Layla's chin she smiled at her and giggled as Layla was nosing her pouch.
"Alright sweetie."
She said as she reached in and pulled some dried jerky for the feline and let her eat before looking at the stable boy.
"She obviously eats meat. Don't try hand feeding her, just drop it in front of her and leave. She'll eat it. Elk is her favorite."
She said as she flipped the boy a gold coin.
"Buy her some elk and keep the rest. If you try and skimp her on food, remember that you're food too. Not her favorite but if you try and keep that coin for yourself, she'll show you how much she appreciates it."
When the boy looked ready to piss his pants Jynx smiled and pat his shoulder as Elri shook her head and walked with Jynx to the inn.

As they were sitting at the table waiting for the monk Elri looked at Jynx as they drank some water.
"Did you really need to frighten that poor lad?"
"Young boys need to have a back bone and know that choices have consequences."
Elri smiled and shook her head.
"You'll make a terrible mother."
"I'm aware. Hence why I have no kittens."

Looking up at the monk as he spoke both Elri and Jynx giggled.
"Oh ho...someone's rather confident in himself now."
Jynx said as she raised an eyebrow.
"Sorry monk, you've got some learning to do from what I heard. Beating a female into the bed isn't something that everyone likes. You can stay with Sybille. I personally like my bed mates to be softer."
She said as she snuggled up to Elri who smiled and wrapped her arm around Jynx's hip and let Marek watch as she gripped Jynx's breast possessively. Jynx then looked at Sybille and giggled.
"Besides, I'm sure a good dicking is just what an uptight Elf needs. Gotta loosen those nerves a bit."
Elri flicked the back of Jynx's head as she didn't need to be starting shit right away. Jynx's head then shot up as she sniffed the air. Elri also looked up and both females stood up glaring at the male who walked into the room. Jynx's pupils shrank to slits as her aggression sky rocketed and Elri placed her hand on Jynx's shoulder as the male caught sight of Jynx and smiled a cruel smile.

Walking over to the table the male just sat down in front of Jynx with a fanged smile.
"Jynx. Such a pleasurable surprise to see you here."
A low hiss came from Jynx as Elri looked at the male.
"Raven. I think it's best you leave."
Raven leaned back and smiled as he pat his hip where a specific dagger rested. Jynx lunged but Elri stopped her and hooked an arm around Jynx's waist as she physically dragged Jynx away.
"Marek. I'll speak with you and Sybille later."
With that she dragged Jynx out of the tavern to get her away from the male because starting a fight in the city limits was strictly forbidden and Raven knew that which is why he was provoking Jynx.

After the pair left, Raven looked at the two adventurer's, his devilish smirk never leaving his face and both would be able to smell the fresh blood on his clothes and even his fur and breath. For those with more sensitive senses, they could also smell fear on his body showing that he relished in torturing his prey.
"Two adventurer's traveling with the feisty Jynxy huh? Oh this is rich, and such a tasty looking Elf female. What's your name sweetheart?"
He asked as he leaned across the table and smiled at Sybille. Taking a deep inhale of her scent he smirked.
"High borne. You smell real fancy...bet you taste divine."

 

[ImaginationGoneWild]

After they were shown to their rooms, which there were only 2 left in this establishment, Sybille and the others met up in the tavern below to get a warm meal. Marek barely sat down when he asked about who would share rooms with each other, or better yet...who was next to bed him. Sybille rolled her eyes at thee same time as Jynx mentioned that someone was eager, "Boy, you get laid twice and you can't get enough can ya?" She listened to what the feline had to say to him and nodded, "Hm...There's nothing wrong with getting rough every now and then."

She stared as Elri fondled a feline breast, causing Sybille to roll her eyes but at the same time chuckle. She wasn't the type to advertise her sexuality in public places. She nearly choked on her drink when the Shadowfang suggested that Marek should sleep with Sybille instead. "I don't mix business with pleasure. No offense, Monk." And not to mention that they only met less than a week ago. "Besides, aren't monks supposed to have an oath of celibacy?" she quirked an eyebrow at him.

Their conversation was cut short when a canine looking beastfolk invited himself at the table. The way the Shadowfangs responded to him made Sybille realize that they not only know each other but there's some very bad blood between the 3 of them. Sybille was cautious as she listened to the male trying to get a rise out of her. She casually finished her mug of ale while thinking to herself. Never breaking eye contact with the canine as she wiped her mouth and spoke loud enough for the whole tavern to hear.

"Oi, I don't know who you think you are but I don't think that the good folk o' Skelt will appreciate the way you talk about the Forest Marshal like that," the moment she spoke of Nirmathas undisputed military leader the tavern went quiet as the air went serious. One would get chills from the death stares they'd be getting now.

"What'd he say?" said one of the patrons in half-drunken stupor.

Sybille turned in her chair and pointed with her thumb at the canine, "The pup is saying that Nirmathas was better off before ya'll took down the government. But I-I told him, " she said in a false tipsy voice, "I told him that; look pup, ye don't know what these people went through. The suffering, the corruption. I mean." She got up, exciting the crowd even more while pointing accusing fingers at Raven, "Let's face it. Right now Nirmathas is a -little- but chaotic. It's only normal, right? Ya'll are still trying to figure things out, BUT HEY! It works for ya! So who the fuck should care or have a say in this. Especially an outsider like the pup over there."

And just like that Sybille's own silver tongue managed to turn an entire tavern of cranky miners against Raven, chasing him out of the tavern. When peace returned to the tavern Sybille grabbed her empty mug and turned to Marek real quick, "Hey, you wanna get laid so much? Watch this!" She stood on her chair with one foot on the table and mug raised. "DRINKS ON US! ALL AROUND!" And the crowd cheered as barmaids were paying more attention to the folks that bought drinks for the entire tavern.

Booze makes friends fast among the common folk, especially the hard working kind like miners and farmers. Sybille may look like a spoiled brat but her companions needs to remember, she wasn't always one... Piracy wasn't always war at sea, sometimes you had to use your brains, and sometimes you just needed to know how to speak the language. She noticed how the, and most of Nirmathas as divided, almost everywhere people had their own version of government to represent them. Village elders, Town mayors, Clan leaders, etc... But one thing they stood united against was some kind of military commander known as the Forest Marshal. Sybille had no clue who he is but the people had great respect for the man. He most likely played an important part in bringing down the previous government here.

The pirates of Conquerer's bay didn't call her Black Sparrow for no reason. She gave Marek a big smile and a wink as they enjoyed another mug, though she wondered where the Shadowfangs went?

 

[Haruchai]

​

Marek managed to make fast friends with the two Ravagers, though Layla resisted most of his attempts to play unless he hardened his skin and got to wrestle with him. Nalla was much more friendly overall, and Elri let him pet her sometimes. He'd never been around big cats like that, and they were so different from horses. Everyone had horses.

Sybille and Shadow both seemed to have something to say about his teasing, and he shook his head at Sybille's question. "Maybe certain monks or priests, but not the order I belonged to. I simply never had much experience with females since I never wanted anyone to know my true nature." he said quietly, thinking perhaps this road he had started down was simpyl not going to be worth it.

As Marek was then put in his place by Shadow over his teasing, the two Shadowfang tenses and had a rather pointed exchange with a wolf. It was easy to tell he had once been Shadowfang as well, so Marek just stayed out of it, though Elri and Shadow soon left, unable to stomach the company of the man. That left him along with Marek and Sybille.

The females played an entirely different game than he would have, and Sybille humiliated the wolf in front of the bar. Raven fled, spitting curses, leaving Marek and Sybille in a rowdy bar as drinks were passed around. Marek did drink a little, but not much, preferring instead to leave his wits about him. Now that he knew there was an enemy close by he'd rather not be caught unawares. So he nursed his drink but ate a hearty meal, and waited for a time when he could bathe and then get some sleep.

 

[NumberThreeInordinate]

A little while after supper, about five after, Elri came back to the tavern to find Marek and Sybille just finishing their meals and as she walked over she sat down and ordered a glass of wine simply because she needed it. Pulling her mask down and her hood she ran a hand through her long white hair and took a sip before looking to the two.
"I'd suggest that tomorrow we head out. Unless you two have something specific you want to do. The less time we occupy this city the better."
Mainly for Jynx's sake as there was only so long that Elri would be able to keep Jynx calm. Having Raven in the city and with Jynx knowing this was not an easy thing for Jynx to ignore. She wanted blood, and she'd get it if they stayed in the city for too long.

Elri didn't mention anything about Raven or why Jynx had such an obvious aggressive response to him. This was Shadowfang business and neither of them were clan members. Everyone in the clan knew that if they saw Raven, they were to engage him and try to kill or capture him to bring him back to the clan for trial, if he was brought back alive. Though in Jynx's case, she would bring his head back and that was it, not that Elri would have any issues with that. Raven was the lowest of the low and she herself wanted a piece of that male.

As she was sitting there, word began floating around the Tavern of some guards wanting help escorting a caravan of precious cargo. They were looking for Adventurer's first and foremost but anyone with guard skills was accepted if Adventurer's weren't available. Elri of course ignored this because that would mean that they'd stick around longer. When a drunk patron asked about the payments, whatever it was must have been important if they were offering one hundred gold coins to whomever assisted.

 

[ImaginationGoneWild]

Sybille turned to Marek, grinning at the unease that showed in him. "Relax, nothing's going to happen for now. The tavern won't let it."

Sybille had just finished filling her belly with a hearty warm meal, the kind that aided the miners of this city to regain their strength, when Elri returned to the table. Sybille set her plate aside as she wiped her mouth, "How's she doing?" she asked the Drow. But the fact that Elri chose not to answer that question and suggested that they leave this city as soon as possible was a hint enough.

Sybille turned to listen to the guards recruiting escorts, she pointed at them. "That. I think I blabbed my mouth earlier when I was lifting everyone's spirits here earlier." When Sybille managed to befriend the tavern she had several conversations with the patrons here. Getting a layout of the land, figure out which roads she had to avoid, what the local news was...The usual. She figured it would've been a good way to maintain the friendliness of the people of Skelt if she returned the favor.

"Monk, tomorrow's payday for you...You need it." She said as she got up and excused herself from the table. She approached the guards, arranging that the crew will be the ones that will escort the cart of supplies. When she returned to the table she gave everyone an update, "We have to head through the Bloodsworn Vale anyway so I volunteered for us to aid the locals here. They need to drop off a cargo to the Fort that's in the Vale. So we drop them off, get paid, then move on. sound good?" She made sure everyone agreed to their plan. Plus the monk could use the money.

With that it was decided that everyone returned to their rooms, get some rest and then meet up at the city gates for the client and his horse-drawn cart.

 

[Haruchai]

​

Marek knew better than to press for more information about Shadow, even though he was worried. She seemed... aggressive, and he would rather not be on the receiving end of any more of her barbed tongue. So he took what Elri said at face value and started to think about what he needed to do to get ready to depart.

The elf, Sybille, filled him in, as had Elri, about the guard positions they could sign up for. It seemed like an easy job, and they were going that way anyway. Marek readily agreed. His purse was low, with only a couple coppers, not enough for anything really, and Sybille was right - he needed the money.

----------​

The morning arrived, and Marek was meditating before doing some shadow-boxing, things he'd let slip the last few days, and he met Sybille and Shadow and Elri at the gates, as they had agreed. He was bright smiles, and his eyes lit up at seeing Shadow again, even if she growled at him.

"Good morning! I trust you all slept well. Let's get going!" he intentionally left things where there was little to retort to, and once he'd met the one they'd volunteered to help; a dwarf by the name of Thurm Orcsmiter (trader extraordinaire), they were ready to go.

They quickly discovered that they were transporting some ore from some of the dwarven mines, and it was really quite valuable. They kept the knowledge about it low-key, but it would be used at the Fort to forge weapons. The plan was to follow along the road going southward along the Shining River until they came to the Bloodsworn Vale, wherein they could stay on some of the trade routes. Thurm informed them that the going should be pretty routine.

 

[NumberThreeInordinate]

Jynx and Elri both were seated on their mounts by the time the other two came out to meet them. Mask firmly in place and while she looked much calmer than the previous night, it was clear that it was still on her mind. Giving a stiff nod to the monk as she wasn't in a smiling mood at that particular moment. Elri did offer a small smile to humor the monk however. Judging from what they'd learned from the guards and what Thurm had told them, it would be about a two day journey if they managed to keep a steady pace and stopped to let the horses rest since they were the ones carrying such a heavy cargo behind them. Jynx and Elri took the front as they had the widest range when it came to sensing hostiles.

The information of the cargo was kept to a very small number of people so the changes of bandits knowing what it was was slim but seeing adventurer's protecting it would certainly boost the value just by common sense. The first day was uneventful as they had little to no troubles other than a family traveling by caravan and small children asking what it was. Elri and Jynx shared shifts of staying up the first night. Jynx taking the later shift as she was naturally a night hunter. After a hearty breakfast, the caravan was on its way again. Everything had been rather easy till the sun started to fall. They were in a deep ravine which screamed ambush and as some of the dwarves were looking for a safe place to camp, Jynx's ears snapped up as Elri drew an arrow and knocked it. Drawing back on the string she fired an arrow up into the rocks as a dull thud was heard and a masked bandit fell dead.

Jynx drew her daggers but stopped as she looked around and spotted dozens of bandits on either side of them. They were aiming arrows at the adventurers and the non-combatants. Doing the math Jynx looked up to see a bald male with a rather nasty scar down the middle of his face step out with a sinister smile.
"Now whatda we have er boys?"
Jynx just glanced around as the male held up his hand.
"Ah ah...wouldn't get any wise idea's kitty. Open them ears..."
Jynx knew what he was referring to. Only a dozen men were visible but there was easily fifty more waiting in the rocks, hidden from view. Sighing she sheathed her daggers and held her hands up as Elri put the arrow back and did the same.

"Smart lass. Take their weapons and bind their hands...best put a muzzle on the kitty."
Jynx just glared at the male as they were stripped of their weapons, a few males getting rather handsy around her chest and backside, and then their wrists were bond. Everyone was walked down a rather rough path to a large open area, a staging point by the looks of the fires and the tins of food. Make shift cages held Jynx and the others, individually, small caves with metal caged doors. Sitting on the cool stone in her cage she simply closed her eyes and listened as the dwarves were loaded into another cell. The adventurers were the only one's put in single cells.

 

[ImaginationGoneWild]

Sybille was at the stables preparing her horse when Marek joined her, asking how her night went. "I slept well, thank you. The others are probably at the gates, it's where we're supposed to meet the merchant that needs help. A dwarf."

Together they met up at the gates. Sybille greeted the women, things were a little less tense between them. The dark-haired Elf did after all do them a favor by ruining Raven's reputation with the city of Skelt. But she decided not to bring it up. The elderly Dwarven merchant introduced himself and his sons, "Thurm Orcsmiter is the name, and these be my sons: Dommic and Filead."

-"Filly is fine," said the red-headed son.

"Aye, Filly. This should be a pretty routine job for ye adventurers. Just bring us safely to Fort Thorn and we'll pay you upon arrival. We dun' expect much trouble but we'd rather play it safe." Thurm explained to them and showed them on the map of the route they'll be taking.

The first day and night went very well. The women even 'behaved' themselves keeping their conversations to jut polite business talk. It wouldn't have been very reassuring for the Dwarf if he kept seeing bickering Shadowfangs and an ex-pirate. Sybille and Marek stayed with the cart while the Shadowfangs went up ahead to scout during their travels.

But by the second night after they had entered the Bloodsworn Vale things didn't go as expected. While the Dwarves were trying to set up camp to rest for the night, the others were keeping an eye out for trouble. Despite the insistence of Sybille to push forward till they were at least out of the ravine they decided to stay here. "Dun' worry, lass. Robb'ries have gone down since the Fort 's been rebuild. They'd be fools if they decide to ambush people this close to the guards. hehe." Dommic reassured them with a chuckle.

Well...they were wrong.

Just as the Shadowfangs Sybille's Elven hearing heard the distinct rustling of leaves by something heavy. She unsheathed her rapier while her other hand clutched the neck of her waterskin. While the Shadowfangs were focused on one part of the ravine, Sybille turned to observe the other side but when a masked bandit feel dead to the floor, she spun around wide eyed. Bandits are never alone...

There they were, creeping out of the bushes and shadowy alcoves of the ravines surrounding them. Sybille slowly backed away to stand near the merchants, the sons ready with their own short sword and axe. Sybille whispered to Marek, "There's too many of them..."

When the bandit leader spoke to them and mentioned to the Feline to listen more closely Sybille did the same. Elven hearing however wasn't as good as a beastfolk's hearing so all she heard was some rustling which may as well have been animals. Reluctantly she dropped her rapier as did the Dwarves before they were taken into custody and guided, along with the cart of precious ores, down a rough path.

This bandit camp was a lot larger than expected. This will prove to be troublesome to escape Sybille thought to herself. Everyone was kept separate inside a large cave system. It had tunnels leading to cave chambers that became the headquarters of the whole bandit organisation. In some of those chamber were makeshift cages carved into the walls and closed off with metal gates. The dwarves were kept in one chamber while the adventurers were kept in another chamber but in separate cages. However thee cages were placed in such a way to prevent proper communication with each other, they can't even see each other.

Sybille sat in her cell,listening to the murmurs of their kidnappers who were sitting at a large table in the center of the room. From the looks of it, this room is kind of like a dining hall. There were barrels and crates with food supplies and wines, ales and water. obviously these bandits were successful at their 'job' to be able to fill their headquarters like that. Enough to feed a platoon of men.

 

[Haruchai]

​

The dwarves were interesting, and Marek watched them carefully, noting mannerisms and the like. A changeling never knew when he might have to impersonate one, and he'd never met many dwarves. The expedition went well - until the bandits took them. Marek had wanted to fight of course, but even he realized if he'd been on his own he'd have been killed, and he had others to think about in this situation. Still, a Fae such as himself did not take slights like this lightly. Were he an Unseelie he'd already be looking for ways to make them pay in horrific ways.

As it was Marek went along with their capture and soon found himself in a cell by himself, though he could hear the others. His hands were bound, but that proves little impediment as he shifted the bones and muscles in his hands and slipped the bonds easily. He couldn't see where the keys to the cells were kept, but as with the bonds on his hands he shifted and between more 'solid' forms he managed to slip through the bars of his cell. He couldn't slip under doors or anything that small, but the bars of the cell were perhaps six to eight inches apart, and he managed.

Now outside of the cell Marek took a less conspicuous form, knowing if he stayed as a monk he'd be spotted right away. He still hadn't managed to perfect hair, so he took the form of a large scarred bandit. It was a look that would fit in well he hoped, and at least allow him the leeway to grab some keys and free the others. He grabbed a crossbow as soon as he found one, and it would allow him to have at least some attack rather than his bare hands. That was how he fought, but that would also give him away.

Moving to the cell where Sybille was kept he appraoched the bars with a finger to his lips for her to remain quiet, and whispered to her. "It's me, Marek. I'm going to try and find some keys and get you out of here..." he told her and gave her a reassuring nod. He then went to the cells of Shadow and Elri to tell them the same....

 

[NumberThreeInordinate]

Due to who and what they were, Jynx and Elri were put into their cells first so that they were locked away. Smart move yes, getting those most dangerous behind bars. Not so smart in thinking that those two weren't still armed.
'Human's really are dense. How has this race survived this long?'
Jynx thought to herself as she sat with her wrists shackled behind her. Her visible weapons had been taken yes, but as she sat there she reached up under the gauntlet armor on her forearm and pulled a slim looking piece of metal, no bigger than a toothpick. Using this, she removed her wrist cuffs and stood up with a sigh, then she moved to the cell door.

Since it was a natural rock formation that had bars manually installed, it wasn't the most sturdy or professional design which allowed her to simply wiggle the lock a bit and thanks to the little rod she had, she popped the lock with relative ease. Sure she could have slipped through the thin gap in the bars but her breasts would have suffered and she'd rather not do that to her girls. Looking over she spotted Elri lifting her hand from a dead bandit as she'd snapped his neck and secured their weapons. Giving a smile to the female they dawned their weapons once more and moved into the camp to stir things up a bit. Shadowfang assassins were recognized for their stealth abilities and these fools captured them right as the sun was setting. Nightfall was the Shadowfang's play time.

From the cells to the middle of the camp, subtle signs of death were visible from dropped weapons to small blood splatters. No bodies of course as that was a dead give away and the weapons were haphazardly thrown into a supply pile which to any regular joe it would seem like someone just got drunk and left their weapon in the pile. Jynx and Elri both moved through the camp like ghosts, striking single males who were alone and away from view, most of them taking a piss after guzzling enough wine to fill their bladder. Some in their tents while sleeping. Those bodies were left where they were, but left in a way that they'd look like they were asleep from the booze. Jynx and Elri had paid fairly close attention as they were being brought in as well, paying attention to who the higher ups were. Who was in charge of this group and systematically removing those key figures one at a time.

By the time Marek would make it into the main camp area looking for the bandit with the key, the bandits had been thinned out a bit. Fourteen dead, well fifteen counting the one Jynx had just killed as she spotted the bald bandit. Sighing as she caught his scent she reached out from the shadows and yanked him into a tent with a dead bandit. Locking her hand around his mouth she pointed at his feet and whispered.
"You're loud. Here."
Slapping a key into his hand she grumbled.
"We're working. Go free the elf and the midgets. When they're free and safe, find a bell and start ringing to sound the escape...then you and the Elf can go nuts. We're removing the higher ups at the moment."

 

[ImaginationGoneWild]

Sybille's hands were hanging through the gated barrier of her cell, her forehead resting against the cool metal as she tried to get a glimpse of what the dining hall looked like. She was concentrating but faltered when the ugliest guy suddenly approached her cell. A mug only a mother could love but something was off with this one. The bald man placed a finger against his disfigured lips and whispered to her. Sybille's jaw just about dropped as her brows furrowed, "Marek?" She whispered back.

He moved away again, taking advantage of his disguise that granted him free access to any other cave chambers as Sybille watched him disappear around the corner of her cell. "No, wait!" She whispered harshly, "Get back here!...Marek?...Marek?!" She listened but heard only the murmuring of the the other bandits gathered at the dining table.

She moved back and looked around in her cell to see if there was anything she could use to force the lock while also thinking about how to distract these men. She suddenly heard the men cheering as a fourth bandit joined the feast. But that wasn't what interested her, it was the sound of water splashing when the fourth dunked his cup into the barrel of water.

Sybille's focus honed in on the noise and before the bandit could remove his hand the water froze around it. The man screamed in a panic, calling out to his colleagues as they rushed to him with a half-drunk wobble.

"What happened?!" said One.
-"I don't know, mate! Just help me get loose!" the Fourth groaned as the cold was biting at his skin.
One motioned for the others to help grab hold of Fourth and together they tried to pull his arm out of the icy vice grip. They couldn't do it and in their clumsiness the barrel tipped over dragging Fourth down with it while the others moved back.

Sybille's Elven hearing heard it all and she smirked. Suddenly the ice melted and the floor flooded with a barrel's worth of water. The Second stared at the water while the others helped the Fourth up, the water seemed to move in an unnatural way. Seconds has seen this kind of behavior in water before...it was magic. His eyes immediately drew to the Elf in her cell as he drew a knife from his belt and approached her. "Ye knock tha' off, missy! Or i'll gut ya!"

Sybille stepped away from the cage when the man approached her and she held up her hands in defeat. The water however continued to move towards the cell, slowly it rose upwards into the air like a slippery snake towering high above the bandit behind it. Seconds turned around and gasped at watery tendril as it moved lightning quick to force its way down the man's throat and airways. Moments later the man dropped dead.

Sybille tried to look out her cell and listen for the others but it seemed they were still distracted. She bend down and grabbed the dead man, checking his pockets for a key but he had nothing. "Oh for the love of the Holy Mother!" She got back up gathered the water and let it wrap around the lock of her gate, freeze it and kicked as hard as she could on the lock and watched it shatter to pieces as the metal gate flew open with a loud bang.

The three remaining men startled at the sound of metal clashing but before they could reach for their weapons Sybille launched another volley of water as it hardened into ice spikes and impaled them.

At that moment Marek showed up with the keys, "Oh now you're here!? Really?! Where are the others? You know what...I don't want to know. We need to find those Dwarves!"

 

[Haruchai]

It seemed they all had the same sort of idea, and Marek gladly took the key as Shadow slapped it into his hand. He was glad she could pick him out from all the others, his scent giving him away as far as she was concerned. He made his way back to Sybille, the elf apparently unhappy with him, though he'd not been able to do anything for her without the key. She made quick work of a few of the guards with her water magic - something the bandits had been rather remiss in discovering. Mentioning the dwarves Marek nodded and gestured, still wanting to keep some semblance of subterfuge, and led her to the where the dwarves were, though there were several bandits in the vicinity and he wasn't sure if Sybille could slip by undetected. As for himself, in the guise of one of their own he could at least have the element of surprise.

"I can get closer and take a few of them out." he suggested. He knew once they had freed the dwarves that they'd have that many more on their side and they were a notoriously tough race. They'd need all the help they could get against these numbers.

Casually making his way toward the bandits that guarded the dwarves, Marek raised his hand in greeting. A couple of the bandits, of the dozen or so who were there, greeted him back though obviously didn't immediately recognize him. A downfall of having such a large group of thieves. In an instant he moved to attack, the close quarters of the bandits working to his advantage as it made it much harder for them to bring weapons to bear. Lashing out with fists and knees Marek rendered two of the men unconscious before the others could even really react. This was the tricky part now, and Marek could only hope that Shadow and Elri were close by, as well as Sybille, since the others would raise a cry of alarm and there was little chance that Marek could stop them all before others would hear...

 

[NumberThreeInordinate]

Jynx and Elri had just finished up with one of the squad captains when the sounds of shouting began filling the air and the remaining grunts of the bandits had began looking around for their superiors. When they weren't found, the braver of the group headed off on their own but their personal interests diverted from the others so it became a massive cluster fuck of who was going where. The weaker minded stayed behind to either raid the camp and steal things from their own allies or just hang around like a lost lamb. Ah, no honor among thieves was playing a big role here as most of the ones who stayed behind were stealing items from the empty tents. Those, and the ones who stayed behind were picked off very easily as they were either distracted or too lost to react.

Making their way toward the narrow passage way where a group of bandits were trying to squeeze through, Elri released a flurry of arrows that dropped about six men and since she'd aimed for the biggest of the group, their heavy bodies fell onto the unsuspecting smaller males, thus pinning them as dead weight was a lot heavier. Dropping to all fours, Jynx bounced over the pile of men and jumped over Sybille, using her shoulder as a spring board, as she did this, she shoved a bit harder so that Sybille would land flat on her ass. The Dwarves were short enough to avoid any damage so that was a plus. Landing in front of Marek, Jynx hooked her right leg around his waist and growled.

"Arms at your sides Monk."
She said as she locked her arms around his neck like they were lovers about to kiss. Soon, ten knives from her belt, sprang up as if lifted by invisible strings and began circling her and Marek as he was close enough to be inside of her little hoop of death. Snapping her fingers, the blades shot out in a complete circle, each one hitting their mark. Using her tail, she hooked Marek's feet from under him as she straddled his hips and covered him so he stayed flat, and the few bandits who weren't killed by the daggers, were dropped as arrows sung overhead and slammed into them. This little display showed two things. Jynx was damn good at her wind manipulation and the teamwork that she and Elri had was top notch and didn't require thought or words, it was instinctual and completely trusted.

Looking down at the Monk she smirked.
"Don't get any ideas boy. I just needed you to listen."
Sitting up she kept her ass planted on his hips as she looked back at Sybille.
"Nice job there elf. Always knew you were good at sitting on your ass. Must be a natural born gift in Nobles."
Looking back at the Dwarves as she stood up and helped Marek up, Elri checked on them then nodded to Jynx. They were fine and only a few remaining stragglers stood in their way, but Jynx doubted they'd try and fight.

 

[ImaginationGoneWild]

Sybille followed the shapeshifter through the corridors in search of the Dwarves. When they stumbled upon a dozen bandits Marek informed her that he would give it a shot first to get rid of them since he was still disguised as a bandit himself. Sybille agreed and tried to stay out of their sight while looking around to see if she could spot the cells of the Dwarves in the cave chamber.

She spotted them huddled together, the sons caring for their elderly father who seemed to have taken a beating. Dwarves are hardy folk but also unbelievable stubborn. Her attention was brought back to Marek as he began to pick off a few of the bandits with some crazy martial arts moves. Sybille sadly was still unarmed and this time there wasn't a water source nearby that she could manipulate.

When she saw an opening she decided to at least try and reach the Dwarven cells while Marek occupies himself with the bandits. But the moment she stepped into the hall she suddenly felt a weight on her shoulders that knocked her down backwards.

She scrambled back upright to see a flurry of arrows flying around, causing bandits to drop where they stood. And amidst the flurry was Jynx cradled by Marek. Sybille tried to get up to give Jynx a piece of her mind when the feline dared calling her lazy. But there's a small detail that she only registered now...

"Ahhh!" she growled as she stared at the arrow sticking in her left shoulder. "You bitch! You shot me!!!"

She leaned against the cavern wall as she looked at Elri at motioned towards the cells, "Free the Dwarves so we can finally leave this forsaken den!" she gritted between her teeth. She slowly turned around, holding her arm as she led the way out of the caves, hoping that they'd still have their horses.

"We should head to the Fort..."