Welcome to Gaia! ::

Setting:

Small town, in a plains like area, with very little forest in surrounding area
Several days travel from another town

Guns are rare to use other than members of the law forces and to protect from wolves and the like.
Outside of the town area are small farms, that keep the towns economy running.
Magic is a rare occourance and something you are shunned for.


Main Character List:

Name/Gender/Age/Occupation/Hair/Eyes/owner

Zoei - Male - 18 - Thief - Whitish/Purple - Brownish/Red - Kiara Lime
Radar - Male - 21 - Priest - Golden Brown - Albino Pink - Kiara Lime
Kyoushiro - Male - 19 - Archer/Knight - Light blond - Dark Reddish/Brown - Kiara Lime
Lady Anette Turndale - Female - ??? - ??? - Black - Amber - Kiara Lime
Demyan - ??? - ??? - Blood Red - Glowing Purple - Kiara Lime
Lavi - Male - 17 - Cursed/Thief - Antique White - Piercing Red - Kiara Lime
Helen - Female - 12 - None - Dirty blond - White (Blind) - Kiara Lime

Santha - Female - 15 - Traveler - Lightpink - blue - Maeanalda
Ezri - Female - 19 - Knight/Hunter - DarkGreen - bright green - Maeanalda
Mele - Female - ??? - Sidekick - ??? - ??? - Maeanalda

Definitions list:

User: Considered cursed, these people can use magic and powers to varying degrees.
Plebian: Normal human, no powers,
The Order:

Copy page of the rp, each post is one page of the original thread for archival and easy reading purposes.

Page 2:

"Even so, to people who throw those coins in, those coins are considered wishes. It would be a shame if those wishes were taken away. Don't you agree?" Lavi's smile softened, he had hoped he made his point to her. "As for the bag I gave you, of course it's more than okay. I have enough; those were just a bit of dead weight on me. Besides, you have dreams you must accomplish. I say take it and go fulfill those dreams."

"So you pretty much want to have me do all the work and then when I’m not looking you're going to take all the credit? Seems like an unfair business." This Ezri was getting on his nerves now. Zoei started to not like her one bit. "If you're so interested in why I’m looking for this thief, I'd prefer if you'd tell me your reason first."

She nodded her pigtails bobbing up and down as she did, tucking the bag carefully into her pocket where it wouldn't be lost. "I guess I have a lot to work out, where I'm going, what I need to take," She said somberly, thinking carefully about what she needed to do. "Do you travel around a lot?"she asked tugging on one of her pigtails lightly,


"Actually you haven't gotten any information I don't already have." She said with a shrug, "Two people poking around for him would draw a lot of unwanted attention, and likely provoke him to move on, if he already hasn't." She pushed off the wall lightly and walked up to Zoei, "I'm not interested in credit from a job, and I'm willing to bet you aren't interested in getting credit for stopping him either, let me see if I can guess, your after him because he's a thief and might be better than you right?" She leaned her arms on the fence next to where he sat, looking over at him. "I'm not worried about thieves, rumor has it this one isn't a normal person like you or me, a potential for some real trouble."


Lavi thought a moment trying to see how he could put it, then shrugged. "I seem to travel quite a bit. I was planning on leaving town sometime in the next few days or earlier after I prepare myself." These journeys seem to be a hassle but they were worth the peace of mind. "I usually go from town to town, wherever the wind blows. I'm hoping to get as far as one of the main kingdoms home areas. It seems to be more prosperous there." He now felt he said a bit much. In order to try to keep it on a down low he kept in a relaxed state. "So what job are you working in order to make a living?" Maybe this question would steer her off his rambling.

Zoei tried not to show how she hit him right on the dot, but it was so obvious that she did. "So what information do you have on this person then?" He wasn't about to have this girl get the best of him, but then again he did like the challenge she gave him. "I mean if you already know what information I gathered, how about letting me in on this real troublesome thief? I mean you figured me out already. It's only right since you've been stalking me." He tilted his head a bit to the side trying to get a good glimpse at her features. "You, yourself seem to be hiding quite a bit it seems, with how you're dressed. You Ever think the suspicious one may be you? For all I know you might be this so called legendary thief."


Santha smiled listening to him talk about traveling, "I've just been helping some of the people near my home with odd chores, I've never really considered a real job before, although I love music and dancing. Although my mother went into conniptions when I suggested I might want to be a street performer, at least to raise money, and that it was unsafe for me to travel alone." She fell silent for a few minutes thinking things over, "I guess the best thing for me to do would be to find someone to travel with, wouldn't it?"



Ezri laughed at that, "Well for starters, if I was this thief, I wouldn't be here talking to you now would I?" She pulled her cloak down and shook her head, letting her long braid move freely. "If I get noticed, I can play it off, I'm a woman that's worried about traveling alone for the first time. However the vast majority of people don't notice anything that isn't directly in their way, which is something a thief like you, and a hunter like me take advantage of." She stretched her arms up, "So do you have a name, or should I just give you one?" She asked deliberately not answering his question about the thief yet.

"Hum, street performer, I never though of becoming something like that, then again that would be dangerous for someone like me." Lavi thought out loud, not really meaning to. He scratched his nose for a bit then looked Santha over. She did seem the trust worthy type, but for how long. Shaking his head at the thought he knew if he had anyone with him for long it would only hurt them. "Of course, the more you travel with the safer you are, as long as it’s with a friend or someone you trust."

Zoei sighed as a smirk crossed his lips. "Sorry, the name's Zoei. If you're not a thief then what are you?" He asked again, but in another form. Like hell if that questioned was going to be ignored. "As soon as I get more information about this person the sooner I’ll be out of your hair and vise-versa, unless you want to work alongside me. Then again I’m not prone to having heavy weights slow me down on my objectives."

"Why would being a street performer be dangerous to you?" Santha asked innocently, "Are you hiding from someone?" interested in why such a seemingly nice person had to worry about things like that. She crossed her ankles and hugged her knees to her chest, looking him over more closely than before.


"To put it most simply, I'm a hunter, meaning I hunt for things someone might be looking for, or I don't, just depends on how I feel." Ezri said, tactfully ignoring the heavy weights comment. "Besides, rumor has it catching this thief is going to be very dangerous, I mean I can understand if you aren't up for it." She trailed off, seemingly paying more attention to the people who passed near the area than Zoei.

Lavi leaned back a bit more; he did it now, why did he have to make himself so suspicious. "I, um well, I’m not the uh best performer. Yeah that's it! I’m not the best at performing." He just dug his grave deeper. What was he saying? You might as well write in big bold red letters Stupid across his forehead. Sighing he lifted his head a bit and arched a brow, with the nice cool breeze blowing his hair blew behind his ears, showing the dark purple marks across his face now showing.

"Cht..." A hunter, now this was a lot more uncomfortable than Zoei asked for, then again she wasn't after him so he went back to relaxing. "Who said I wasn't up to it? I just don't know if I can trust you enough just yet. You can have this so called Legendary Thief, only after I can see if he can live up to his title. Till then, I’m going to stick to you. But I do things my own way. So don't hassle me about my lifestyle."

Santha's eyes light up at seeing the marks, and she drew in a deep excited breath, "I get it!" she exclaimed, immediately realizing her mistake, he didn't want people to know that he was different. "You're one of those people, aren't you? The ones who just can't sing and dance, its nothing to be embarrassed about, lots of people can't." She grabbed his hand lightly, hoping that he would understand the emphasis in her words, "Everyone can't be good at everything, right? It's okay. Your secret, its safe with me." Still a bit excited, she bounced lightly as she sat, her pigtails bobbing lightly as she did.


Ezri shook her head, typical paranoid thief, always making assumptions about other people based on labels. "Who says I have a problem with your lifestyle? You do what you do to survive, thats how the world works." She spun around and hopped backwards landing on the fence to sit down next to him. "I mean nothing against your skills, however I won't be placing bets on your ability to out do him just yet." She shook her head, tossing her braid from where it had fallen over her shoulder. "Supposedly this thief, is a user, although I haven't run across anything to prove otherwise. It would be great to see you outdo him, and prove he isn't one." She sighed lightly, magic users were considered some of the worst in the kingdom, and she had to be the one going after them.


Lavi was in shock when she shouted " One of those? Oh ah um yeah I can't sing worth anything, the same with dancing." He sighed with relief, he hoped so bad it wasn't obvious about him being a User. Still her grabbing his hands like so made him uncomfortable now, so by instinct he pulled away. One of his gloves slipped off unfortunately though as he starts to gain his balance, he used his un-gloved hand to catch himself. This was surely an unlucky day for him, with his mind not at ease as soon as he touched the water it froze to ice, all the way to the tip.

Maybe this huntress wasn't as bad as she seemed, she actually understood the struggles of life, but even more she had that since of protection of life about her. Zoei smile softened. "You're worried about me. How sweet, you're one of the few maybe even first to worry about my well being. That is so nice of you. It's too bad there isn't more like you. Then again if there was then...." He stopped in mid sentence as he stood up, noticing the weird steam from the fountain just now. "I think we may have just found what we're looking for." Snatching Ezri by the arm he started to pull on her wanting to head over to where he saw the weird steam.

Santha blinked, shocked that the fountain had frozen, "Wow, did you?" She started to ask, realizing that the fountain was attracting a lot of attention now. Only thinking that getting away from the area would be a good idea, she grabbed his bare hand, and started pulling him through the crowd. "We need to get away from here, find a place to hide," she said quietly.

Eriz followed him quickly, being slowed by the crowd that was forming around the fountain. Once they were close enough to see the fountain she paused a second, "Well, that confirms the User rumors," she began scanning the crowd looking for who could have done this.

"No!" Lavi shouted as he grabbed his bare hand. "I don't know what'll happen." Being tugged away was one thing, but his fear started to build, he was so scared that Santha was going to get hurt. He forcefully yanked his hand away and grabbed her around the waist, lifting her up under his arm. He was shaking, but he kept a strong grip around her, so not to drop her. Guess being in this town was no longer a waiting option. Panicking he skidded down under the crowd they were about half way through. He looked back at the fountain and touched his bare hand to the ground soon the fountain melted, but instead of going back to normal it started to spray rapidly, distracting everyone to it instead. With that as a tiny bit of peace in his mind he made his way quietly through the crowd and around a corner, softly putting Santha down. "Are you hurt? Did anything happen when you touched my hand? Please, oh please, I really don't want you in danger."

Zoei watched her tactic into looking for the User and sighs. "We're not going to get far with just tippy toes. Come on." He pulled on her once more to get her attention and ran around the crowd. Jumping on crates as well as higher sturdier objects he made his way where he could see above the crowd. Gasping a bit he noticed the pink movement trying to make its way away from the crowd, but as soon as it vanished underneath he got sprayed by the water, making it harder for him to see. "Dammit, well at least I have an assumption." He had a feeling he should tell Eriz, but after they found a more empty space, that wasn't so wet. Though he was sure she'd want to ask around for eye witnesses.
Santha wasn't expecting to be picked up, but she also knew if they thought she was the cause of the fountain she'd be in trouble.
She shook her head lightly, catching her breath for a moment before answering, "I'm not hurt, a little spooked, but I really didn't get hurt. Nothing happened when I touched your hand," she said looking over the hand she had grabbed his with, "Was something supposed to happen?" she asked, letting him see her hand as proof nothing happened to it.


Once Ezri noted the way Zoei ran she continued around the edge of the crowd, knowing with people distracted toward the fountain the cause of it would be headed the other way. Spotting some movement headed her way, she moved to head it off, but was stopped when the fountain started gushing, from the people running away. "Definitly a User," she worked her way through the moving crowd avoiding the water from the fountain as much as possible, as she went toward where Zoei had hopped on the crates. "That was, unexpected, wouldn't you say?."


Lavi took a deep sigh of relief, leaning against the wall and sliding down; he cupped his hands over his forehead. "I don't know, different things happen, you were very lucky." He looked up at her catching his breath. "I'm just so glad you're okay, but if you stay near me to long you'll be prosecuted as well. I don't want you to get hurt or in trouble cause of me." Who knew what bad luck he already caused her. He just hoped so badly no one would accuse her for his doing. "I guess this is where we part." He reached out his hand to her. "Can I have my glove back, please? It's the only thing that helps keep my curse concealed."

"Yeah" Zoei agreed right away, it was much unexpected, but he wasn't going to let the User get away. He wasn't about to start over looking for this person, especially when he was so close. "I think I know who this user is. I saw a glimpse of them, and it seems the person is the same I saw this morning when I made it into town." He grinned then jumped down from the crates waving her over to a dryer place. "Look for pink hair in pigtails."

Santha offered him a gentle smile, and knelt down in front of him. "Of course," she said carefully handing him his glove. From her point of view, his powers were amazing, but it must have been so hard to be chased for them, and she had been the one to make him so nervous in the first place, but she was just excited at the prospect of a new friend, and the prospect of traveling. "I'm sorry, if I hadn't been so, well, excitable, then this probably wouldn't have happened." She thought a moment then took a small pouch from one of the larger pockets. "This was gonna be my dinner on the way home, but I can just buy something from a stand," she said handing him the wrapped up pastries. As far as she knew, him getting something from one of the stands would be difficult.



"Pink in pigtails, got it," she repeated, "Did you happen to see which way they were headed?" She shook the water from her cloak, ready to move as soon as they were able.

Taking his glove back he slipped it back onto his bare hand. Lavi moved his legs some, resting his hands on his knees and leaning his forehead against them. He was use to kindness, but not after he was found out. "It's alright, it isn't your fault. I was the one who approached you. Besides..." He looked up at her; his face was wet, as if he was sad. "It's my fault you were drug into this, who knows how many witnesses saw this. For all we know they'll accuse you and you'll be going through the same thing I go through." He looks over at her offer and shook his head. "Getting food isn't a problem for me. Still I’m so very sorry."

Zoei nods, jumping down next to her. "Yeah, I know the direction; I just don't know which corner they slipped to. Best way to find out is to look." He started to head the way where he thought the User went. "Any suggestions before we fun face to face with this User? Any precautions about the Users and so on, like dangers? Since you know quite a bit that is."

"To hell if I speak to any parent figures." Zoei snapped, he had this hatred for parents, but that was his own secret to keep. Crossing his arms he leaned back against the closest wall. "So when do we move the User out? If we can get him into the cart soon I’ll be more than happy to watch him while you go parent talking."

Lavi himself didn't know all what his User powers could do. For all he knew his hands were his base or so he thought. Hearing that lullaby soothed him though, he hadn't hears one of those in a long time, especially to him. Once his mind was at ease for the most part, he kept his eyes closed, trying to picture the situation in his mind. He knew the distance everyone was for the most part, now it was all the matter in succeeding in a plan. Taking one deep breath Santha could feel him adjusting his body, soon to swipe his own legs to attempt to trip Ezri, maybe if he could get the worst threat locked down then he could get his hands free. That's if Santha would help him. It was worth a shot.

Ezri chuckled lightly at Zoei, "I'll make the arrangements, I have connections that will be appreciated," stepping toward the User. "The cart should be waiting at the town gate by now, lets get moving out."

She didn't expect to be kicked by the User and caught herself on her hands as the pavement swiftly approached, "Damn," she cursed, "Zoei he's up!"

Santha moved back more than a bit surprised, she got to her feet and stood back out of the way, not wanting to be trouble to Lavi this time around.

Lavi was a swift one, he moved to where he had his legs around Ezri's neck, glaring down at her. "Santha, there's a small knife in my boot, cut my arms free, please." He was a bit frantic; he didn't know how long he could keep her pinned.

Zoei reacted right away, instead of grabbing Lavi he grabbed Santha back and shoved her to the side away from them. Right out of his own hat he pulled out a small dagger of his own and threw it towards Lavi, aiming and hitting the Users leg. To hell if he was going to get to close to this guy yet, but at least with that little trick Ezri would have an easier time subduing the guy.

Lavi yelled in pain, of course his grip loosened, his head hit the floor, as he gritted his teeth.

Santha pushed herself up against the wall, freezing for a moment after being shoved aside. She wasn't very big, but used her weight to try and shove Zoei out of the way. Moving past him to try and get to Lazi's knife.

Ezri was already trying to pry his legs loose enough to ease her breathing. "Good move," Once the User's grip was loosened she shoved his legs off of her, moving to flip him on his back. She took her whip out, and tried to get his legs tied together.

After being shoved to the side, Zoei reached out and grabbed Santha’s wrist, pulling her back again, he wrapped his arm around hers slipping a second dagger from his own boot and placing it to her neck. "Just stay still and quiet if you know what's good for you." Great now he felt like a criminal. Having an innocent girl at knife point wasn't in his plans.

"I'm not about to be killed cause of scum like you! I'm just trying to live a normal life like anyone else; It isn't my fault that I’m cursed!" Lavi shouted. He was in pain and being restrained even more. He didn't want to give up, he wished to live. He looked over to where Santha was and gasped. "Santha! Let her go!"

Santha started to pull forward, but froze at the feel of the knife. "Please, don't hurt him, he's just scared."

"Who said anything about getting you killed," Ezri retorted, glancing back at Zoei and Santha, quickly turning her attention back to the User. "You let me get this tied, and no one has to get hurt, at least not more than they already are." She finally got his legs bound, tearing a piece of cloth to make a small bandage for his leg, she handled his wounds none too gently, but tied the makeshift bandage off nonetheless.
She shook her head lightly, why did things always have to get this complicated.

Lavi winced, gritting his teeth again when Ezri tied his wound up. "What do you plan on doing to me then, and what about Santha, she has nothing to do with this. She isn't a User, just let her go." He pleaded for Santha’s life more than his. He stopped struggling and lowered his head. "I'll go with you, tied or not, just please, I’m begging you don't hurt her."

Zoei removed the knife from Santha's neck and slipped it into his boot. He didn't remove his hand from her wrists though. "It's up to you Ezri; I’ll just go with whatever you decide."

Ezri felt like rolling her eyes, 'Why do they always make promises like this once they are already going?' she asked herself silently, moving the User to stand on his feet.

"We are taking you to the Order in the South Kingdom, The priests there can take care of you,"

Santha stayed still, she didn't believe that these people didn't want to hurt Lavi, but then there still wasn't anything she could do to save him at this point. The south kingdom was long way off, and she wondered just how well her new friend would fare on his own, with just these two to watch out for him. "If you take him, I want to come along as well," she said aloud, doing her best to sound authoritative, 'At least,' she thought, 'I can help him where his hands are bound.'

Ezri looked over at the girl, unsure why she would agree to come along with a User, if there was any chance she was one, the Priests would be able to tell, and handle that as well. "Fine, you can come along."

Zoei laughed finally letting Santha go from his grip. "I'm going to head to where the ride waits; you have fun with her parents and the User. I'll see you once you get there." He walked up to Lavi and knelt down, picking up his other knife and wiping the blood on Lavi's shirt before putting it away. 'wouldn't hurt to have a bit of gold in my pockets for this trip, then again I didn't have anything to eat yet. What a mess I’ve gotten myself into.' He thought to himself as he stood up and stuffed his hands in his pockets.

"I just want to know Santha will be safe, that's all I ask. I doubt you'd be one of your words anyways." He looked up once more and focused on Santha, he was a bit more relieved to see she wasn't restrained anymore. He leaned more on his leg that wasn't injured now, but he expected this trip was going to be more rough that his usual trips. Forcing a sweet smile towards Santha, he didn't want her to feel guilty about any of this, but he knew he couldn't control how anyone felt. "I'm sorry for causing you trouble Santha."

Ezri shook her head and spent a moment freeing Lavi's legs, "no use carrying him if we don't have to" she said, pulling her cloak off and draping it over him so that no one they passed would see he was bound. Leading them both to the wagon. "Where's your house, kid?" She asked Santha.

They could see the cart was loaded with everything they would need on a trip like this, except for the need to stop in small townships and gather more of the perishable supplies. Food, water, blankets, enough for them and the horses.

Santha smiled and kept pace at Lavi's side, "Its alright, like I said I wanted to travel, what better way to start?" She walked along side of him until they reached the cart, carefully climbing up and taking a seat next to Lavi. "Everything will be okay, I'm sure of it," she said trying to reassure him, giving Ezri directions to her parents house.

As they reached the house, the group could tell this wasn't your average home, Santha's family wasn't super rich, but they were very well off.

Zoei waited outside the south gate for them to return, he watched as the people and residents passed by, busy with their own daily lives. He was already finished with his little errand as well as gathering. He crouched down as he started to throw his lucky dice down, picking it up now and then just to pass the time.

"It's not really a good way to start, but it's better than not starting at all. I'm just glad you're alright. It does surprise me however. You're neither afraid nor cautious of me. Even after finding out that I’m a User." He looked over seeing her home and smiled. "It must be nice."

Santha smiled nervously, "The house is nice, my mothers father built it, living here, not able to be free to do much of anything, isn't. I don't see why I should be afraid of you, you've already proven you aren't going to try and hurt me, you even risked your own life to save me,"

It only took a few minutes with Santha's parents, who insisted on sending her with a large luggage trunk, full of stuffy clothing. Santha changed into a more fitting outfit for long travel, and sat back next to Lavi. She was carrying a small basket, filled with fresh bread, and pastries, and grinned happily. "The preserve filled ones are my favorite, these will be our dinner.

Ezri spotted Zoei and waved him over to the wagon. "Are you winning, or losing?" she asked hopping down and tugging the trunk of unwanted clothing off the cart and to the street. "If you want help me with this we can be on our way," she said pulling the heavy trunk, "The Kid doesn't want these and there is no since dragging them along with us when they will just weigh the cart down," she explained.

Zoei chuckled at her question. "Why of course, I always win in a game of chance, especially in dice." Walking over he helped Ezri as they unloaded the trunk. Opening the trunk he browsed through it, seeing if there was anything valuable to sell or keep himself. "So how long did you say it'd take to get all the way to South Kingdom?"

Lavi smiled and nods. "Still to have a family to care at all, if I could start my life over I'd be more that happy to have what you have." He didn't want her to feel bad for him at all he just wanted to try to turn things around. No one should be a bit sore at their family, but then again he wouldn't really know since he never really had one, that he knew of at least.

The trunk was full of clothes, and several pairs of shoes.
Ezri tapped her chin thoughtfully, "If the weather holds on us, and we don't run into trouble, we can make it in a week." She said, looking at the path ahead. "We can travel at least until sunset tonight, ready to head out?"


"I love my family a lot, its just," Santha paused trying to think of how to put it, "I don't want to be the person they want me to be." She leaned her head on her knees, looking at Lavi sideways, "What about your family? Don't you have one?"

"Family is a word that doesn't exist for me unfortunately." Lavi sighed as he looked down at his shoes, then back at Santha. "If I did have a family, I have no idea where they are or if they're still alive. Yet, from what I heard before, a family doesn't have to consist of a mother and father with siblings. A family can be anything; it's mainly a group of people who care about each other despite their differences."

Zoei nods as he takes out a few things, looking them over then dragging off the trunk and selling it cheap but at a price that satisfied him. Running back up to Ezri he grinned and tossed her the pouch of coin. "This may come in handy for later." Walking up to the cart he jumped in gaining his balance quickly and sat across from Santha, crossing his legs he grinned at her. "I am more than ready Ezri."

As they arrived in town Mele bounced in her seat lightly, checking and rechecking that her hood covered her horns. Sitting still for the long journey made her a bit antsy, she was eager to walk around freely, and to help Demyan take on the Order here. She watched the people she could see as they made it to the Eastern gate.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Once the North gates were in sight, Ezri climbed into the back, and carefully readjusted the wrappings on Lavi's hands, they weren't tight enough to cause discomfort, but he wouldn't be able to get his hands free of them either. She gave him a cloak that would cover his hands but not make him look suspicios. "You can stay with him until we get to the Order," she told Santha, "The priests there, will take good care of him," she wanted to set them both at ease, and just get things done as smoothly as possible. "Just be careful, the South Kingdom is a lot bigger of a town than what you are used to, so it can be much more dangerous."
Settling back next to Zoei she smiled a bit. "This should be the easy part," she said streaching out. Showing him the direction they needed to go to reach the Order.

Santha straightened her outfit, and pulled her boots back on, she hated to wear shoes but had a feeling she would need them. She had already decided on the few belongings she wanted to keep with her, and had them in a small bag she could easily carry over her shoulder. She still wanted to help Lavi, but wasn't sure on what she could do. She watched part of the town go by out the back of the wagon. "She's right, this place is huge," she said turning back to Lavi. "I'm worried though, about whats going to happen to you," she sat beside him again, and leaned lightly against his shoulder, wanting to comefort him like before, but unsure of how she could.

Demyan let out a soft yawn, these journeys were so long, and if there was some way he could make them shorter he could. "Gullible Plebians." He murmured to himself before looking over to Mele. "We'll find somewhere to rest up for today, and then take a stroll to know our surroundings."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Zoei soon handed over the reigns and climbed in the back. "How about you steer and I take a power nap." He grinned. "I want to feel refreshed so I can do some scouting later." That and he really wanted to find the richest part of town to see what he could pilfer.

Lavi sighed, he knew of this town, and never planned on coming here in the first place, but he couldn't help it in his situation. "I have no clue, whatever happens we'll just have to see. I have a bad feeling about this place though." He looked over to Santha and smiles sweetly at her. "Don't worry though. You just make sure nothing happens to you. I really don't want your travels to end here."

Mele looked around, reading the signs and making careful note of what was around them. She wondered if their coach would make them stand out much, spotting few others as nice as theirs had seemed to her.
She nodded mutly to his request soon pointing somethign out. "There is a Tavern at the end of this street," she offered, looking downward as they passed a large wall and the glass reflected her image, she knew she would stick out even in a crowd like this. 'Why can't these things be smaller,' she thought, she never wanted to be normal, just didn't want to cause any trouble for them, at least not before He was ready.
'I can just stay with the coach then, until He is rested up,' she considered, nodding to herself lightly. 'I've certainly slept in much worse places.'

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Santha smiled not wanting to bring Lavi down wither her worrying. "I promise I'll be very careful," she moved her legs a bit, giving Zoei more room and placed her hands over Lavi's wrapped ones, giving him a soft smile she started humming a soft tune, much different than the lullaby from before this one was happier and something she hoped would cheer him a bit.

Ezri shook her head a bit at his 'power nap' easing the horses towards the stables. She already had arrangements for the wagon, but still wanted to be careful. It would be a bit of a walk to the Orders entrance from anywhere the carts could go, which was a part in protecting the priests.


"You're worrying to much, there's an illusion over this coach as well as you, plebians will see you as a normal child, while you will see yourself as who you really are." Demyan tilted his head back to the window; he slowly slipped his fingers to the collar of his shirt, tracing the chain underneath. "The tavern will do, I want you at full rest before we take our walk."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Lavi closed his eyes to focus better on her song, only to open them as he looked over towards Ezri. "What is The Order like in this kingdom?"

"Matters which priest you get to see." Zoei spoke up as he reached to his own hat and pulled it over his face as he lay down. He lay on his back moving his hands behind his head as a pillow once he got more comfortable.

Mele jumped lightly, it always astounded her that he always seemed to know what was bothering her when she found herself lost in thought. As they stopped near the tavern, she waited for Demyan to exit the coach first, remember that a 'normal child' wouldn't go before the adult.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Santha stopped humming as the wagon slowed a bit, softly squeezing Lavi's arm, just above his wrapped hands.

"Auctually I prefer the Order here, they are much more peaceful then most of the others, their High Priest is well known for his peaceful solutions." Ezri tapped the reigns lightly, urging the horses forward. "We have a good half hour before we're at the stables inside of the Kingdom walls, you all may as well rest some."

Stepping out to the coach, Demyan turned towards Mele, offering her his hand as if she was the most important one inside. Once outside his image was changed, his suit was like one of a servant. He also looked like a plebian. This was his plan though; he wouldn't cause suspicion especially towards himself. Though as for Mele, he had he seeming more of an upper class plebian, one that he'd serve instead of the other way around. "Don't let this get to your head." He spoke softly to where only she could hear.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"Sounds like you've been here before, The Order, you're probably friends with them, from what my hunches are." Zoei opened one eye, moving his hat down to his nose. "Unless you, yourself is apart of this order."

"It shouldn't matter is she is or isn't, what's done is done. I don't wish to loose my freedom over this." Lavi glared a bit at Zoei, only to turn his head away. "You should know full and well. Being a thief freedom is everything."

Mele grinned and blushed lightly, she wasn't used to such attention, but adored it still. Quickly deciding it was one of her favorite things, right up there with the way he all but pet her when he was in a good mood, she carefully stepped down from the coach. "Thank-you," she said, both mimicking the politeness the situation called for, and letting him know she understood.
Walking into the tavern, she kept her voice calm, and made arrangements for a room to rest in, making sure that complete privacy was understood. She was both pleased that the disguise worked so well, and amazed, she was used to being looked at by several people at a time, although it was normally because someone had spotted her horns, and trouble was nearby; not because of admiration. Only Demyan seemed to be pleased at her outward appearance as a user, and that made her happy, she never disliked her horns, only the reactions they were given.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Ezri shook her head at Zoei's last statement, "I was born and raised inside of one of the larger Kingdoms, but that is far from here, besides do I really look like a priest to you?" She shook her head at that thought. "I've met the high priest on a few occasions, he takes care of those others wouldn't," she said leaving it at that.

Santha stayed quiet watching the three converse, she felt bad for not having something to add to the conversation, but she'd never been this far from her hometown before.

Once in their room, Demyan walked over to the window, opening it up then sat on the ledge of it. He brushed his thin fingers through his hair, making his appearance back to normal for them, but his clothes the same as a servant. "Don't worry; the Plebians are easy to fool. Now to decide which part of this kingdom would be best to crush." He looks back at Mele, smiling once more. Waving his hand in her direction, he offered his lap to her as a pillow for rest.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Yeah, Yeah." Zoei brushed it off, rolling to his side, getting comfortable again. "So, what's this priest to you anyways?"

Lavi went quiet, a bit curious where this conversation would lead to. He adjusted himself in his seat and leaned against Santha a bit, smiling at her.

Mele happily complied, and laid her head in his lap, she was used to not letting her horns stab into things while she rested. "The Order here shouldn't be too hard to find," she suggested, snuggling very lightly to his lap as she relaxed.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ezri paused a moment, unsure if Zoei was a bit jealous, or just bored, she shrugged it off, shrugging even though he couldn't see her. "He's just the high priest here, I've only met him on a few brief occasions in person." She explained, "Rumor has it he's working on things so that Users will have a safe place to live, of course there are worries on the more violent types, but thats will all be taken into consideration, I suppose."

Santha returned his smile lightly, maybe things wouldn't be as bad as they had thought for Lavi. Although she still didn't like seeing him with his hands bound, but she knew trying to get him untied would land her in serious trouble with Zoei and Ezri.

Placing a hand to Mele's head, Demyan started to stroke her hair and horns ever so gently. "Of course, just find the most holy of place where the Priests dwell."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"Sounds like one of those goodie to shoes to me, how boring." Zoei rolled his eyes, even if he only knew what Ezri told him about this High Priest fellow, he really didn't like the sound of someone that kind. "So is the High Priest guy what, an adult or a kid?"

Lavi leaned to Santhas ear, whispering to her. "Sounds like this young man may have a jealous streak to him, doesn't it?"

Mele made a soft noise of content, she knew Demyan could easily feel the mark on the back of her right horn, like someone had tried to saw it off, it had been there since before he found her, and wasn't something she paid attention to often. "That shouldn't be hard," she nearly whispered, the petting and quiet of the room relaxing her further, "They are so easy to spot in their pristine white robes."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"He's an adult, at least 20," Ezri answered thoughtfully. "He is your goodie two shoe type, he became the high priest at his young age, its a really rare thing," she shook her head a bit, considering. "He's not concerned with thieves, or anything of the like, so you don't have anything to worry about."

Santha giggled softly, leaning her head against Lavi's so Zoei was sure to not hear their conversation even if he could hear her giggles. "I think he really likes her, maybe hes worried the priest will steal her away from him?"

Demyan traced his finger softly across the mark on her horn. He knew it was there, but decided to never ask about it unless absolutely necessary. "They usually wear robes, but it matters their class. As long as we rid this world of their measly existences, it'll add that much more panic in this dying world." He set his gaze down towards Mele as he moved his hand to brush a strand of hair from her face.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Never asked if he was concerned with thief’s. He just seems too soft." Zoei was now on his stomach; his arms crossed with his head leaned on them. "So where should we stay the night?"

Lavi chuckled a bit at Santhas question. "It would seem this conversation would be leaning in that kind of direction. I guess we'll just have to wait and see."

Mele nodded just slightly, agreeing with him. "They rely on their priests to feel safe, and protect them from Users," her mind drifing some to worse times she unconciously moved forward, Demyan was protection against the kinds of people that had damaged her horn. Relaxing a bit as he stroked the hair from her face, she smiled very lightly, comefortable and enjoying listening to his plans.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Ezri shook her head a bit, "Kindness doesn't betray being soft, at least not all the time," she pondered a moment thinking his question over. "There's a nice sized tavern, we can stay the night there."


Santha adjusted how she sat so she could lean her head on his shoulder. It would be nice to sleep in a bed instead of the wagon, and she hopped Lavi could at least stay with them through that.

"well they won't be protecting anyone for much longer. If you call theses plebian even having the ability to even uses tactical protection." Demyan lowered his gaze to Mele. "You worry too much, but don't worry I’ll take care of these pests."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"That works, as long as it has one of the rooms have a window, I’ll be fine." Zoei ignored Ezri about the whole priest thing once again. "So when should we go meet this High Priest." He asked while rolling his eyes once more.

Lavi took a deep sigh, sleeping indoors was nice, but he preferred under the starry night. He really didn't have a choice in the matter though so he brushed it off. Leaning his head against Santhas lightly he smiled. The ride wasn't the most comfortable, but at least he had company. He was so grateful for Santhas presence; it made him feel the most relaxed in his life time. He refused to think about taking separate paths later on, he knew it may happen, but at these moments he brushed it off just as he did while they headed to this Kingdom.

Mele smiled sheepishly, not realizing he was looking at her. "They won't stand a chance against you," she said, closing her eyes again, she wasn't sure the plan for when they went out, and although she wasn't sleepy, resting couldn't be anything other than useful.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"I'll send to have him meet us at the tavern in the morning, that way we can get some rest this evening." She guided the horses to a stop standing and streaching out, "It'll give you pleanty of time for exploring around town," she said to Zoei, turning to speak to the people that would attend to the wagon and horses, before hopping down and walking around to the back of the wagon.

Once Ezri started helping Lavi, Santha moved to the edge of the wagon, hopping off lightly before straightening her outfit. She looked around her at all the people, wondering if her bright pink hair made her stick out as much here as she did back home. She waited for Lavi so she could stay next to him, she wasn't sure what she was going to do when they parted yet, and shook her head at the thought her curls bouncing as she did. It didn't matter, for now what mattered was that she was with her new friend, 'I wonder if he'd like me calling him that,' she pondered, stepping closer to him and lightly hooking her arm into his, being careful not to disturb the cloak so no one could see his hands

Page 8

"You look a little green," Santha said thinking only a second before carefully moving the tray to the small desk, bringing back a small glass of milk and handing it to Lavi, "It's warm milk, settles your stomach, and helps you sleep," she explained with a smile, turning to pull back the blankets so Lavi could just get right to bed after drinking the milk. She walked over to the desk chair and sat down to finish her meal.

Ezri chuckled softly under her breath, "Don't expect me to make your bed," she whispered to Zoei, teasing but making sure Santha couldn't hear her. She finished her meal and took the tray over setting it on the floor next to the desk, before carefully unhooking and hanging her cloak, and sitting back on the bed, starting to untie her boots, to prepare for bed.

Santha finished her meal, not finding anything wrong with the food. She carefully stacked the emptly plates and trays together making neat stacks, then walked over to the door, "I'm going to take these downstairs, be right back," she said not waiting for an answer before padding out the door and down the hallway. A little ways down the hall she tripped and dropped the trays, causing a loud noise, but luckily not breaking anything. She carefully started to pick up the dishes and trays, blushing even though she was alone in the hall.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

At the noise Mele gasped sitting up hard, it took a moment for where she was to sink and and she sighed with a bit of relief. She slipped out of the bed and walked over to the door, slowly opening it, letting out a breath she didn't know she was holding when she found it was just a pink haired kid. She shut the door noiselessly and leaned her forhead against it. Chiding herself for being so easily spooked, not yet taking notice if Demyan was awake or not.

Lavi blinked taking the glass of milk as he watched Santha walk out the door; he sat there quietly, slowly sipping the milk so not to burn him. Warm milk, now that was new to him, but at least it was better than how the food smelled. He set the glass down for a bit, slipping off his boots and placing them to the side of the bed. Picking back up the glass he finished off, setting it on the table before lying down. He preferred no covers for it wasn't that cold tonight, especially with so many staying in one room.

"Never asked and never will." Zoei responded. "I'm not a child, besides I know how to take care of myself, and it'll always be that way." Besides, the inn maid usually made the beds after the guest leave or so he thought. He slipped off his hat and placed it over his shoes, messing his hair up a bit as he got more comfortable. "So Ezri, what time do you expect to wake and take this User to The Order? Shouldn't you give them the heads up that you're bringing him first?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyan kept one eye open after the noise startled Mele; he watched her a bit seeing her reaction and sighed. "Mele, don't worry too much. If it was a threat I’d do something about it. Rest more and put your mind at ease. You know I wouldn't let anything happen to you."

Mele flushed lightly, she felt she was getting on Demyan's nerves, "Just a pink haired kid," she said softly, more to herself than him. She walked back over to the bed sitting back against the pillows and fixing the covers around herself. Being so close to one of the larger Orders made her a little uneasy, she's broken into smaller ones before without a problem, however this place was supposed to be on of the largest around. She shook her head lightly, she trusted Demyan to take care of her. "I guess I'm a little jumpy," she admitted, lying down and curling a bit into the covers, taking a deep breath to relax some more.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ezri laid back on the pillows, "Not too early, I've already sent to have the priest meet us here, it'll be easier to get into the order that way." she flopped onto her back, making sure Zoei had pleanty of space on the bed, staring up at the ceiling thinking some.

Santha came back into the room quietly, unsure if Lavi had gone to sleep yet. Thinking about it a moment she carefully laid down next to him, seeing he wasn't asleep yet, she smiled and gently hugged his arm, resting her head against the pillows close to him. She grinned lightly and started humming a soft lullaby, trying not to worry about what the morning would bring.

Demyan sighs, getting up from his chair and walking over to where Mele laid. Sitting next to her, he leaned over taking off his shoes and belt, then laid next to her, reaching over and rubbing her arm. "The next time don't come close to falling out of the bed." He took awhile before he pulled her closer to him into a small hug, he knew how uneasy she felt, but he also knew as long as he was with her she would be alright.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Even though Zoei says how he's not a kid, he sure did show some hints, he was already asleep by the time Ezri was speaking to him. He curled over, it was nice to sleep in a bed for once and he took full advantage of it. As he curled up he leaned a touch against Ezri.

Lavi smiled, watching Santha as he hugged to his arm. He didn't hesitate to move it instead under her, as he pulled her to his chest a bit. She let him borrow her lap for the whole trip here, it was the least he could do in return. It didn't take long though once the lullaby set in to sooth in into a light sleep.

Mele smiled a bit, "I'll be more careful," she said, curling lighly and snuggling into the safety of his arms. She yawned a bit, and soon had her forhead leaned against his chest, closing her eyes as she started to doze off again.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Ezri smiled lightly, she wouldn't turn her back to the door, but she lightly stroked his hair, thinking about how he had reacted when she hugged him, she moved a little closer to him being careful not to disturb him. Watching him a bit before falling asleep herself.

Santha grinned lightly, her head resting on Lavi was very comfortable. Her humming slowly trailing off as she fell asleep herself.

By early next morning just as the inn opened back up, a young man walked in, covered in High Priest robes, his hair was a golden brown, short but had a small pony tail tied tightly in back, his smile was kind as he greeted the owner of the in, his eyes shut closed as he smiled. Getting information where Ezri was he quietly headed upstairs so not to disturb the customers. He stood in front of the door, pulling on of his sleeves back and knocking on it lightly.

Zoei was still asleep, but in a more deep sleep than how he use to sleep. He was in so much ease, he didn't bother to stir when there was knocking.

Lavi looked over at the door, he was awake for an hour or so by now, not sure if Santha was yet, but stayed still not to disturb her in case. He knew it was time, but didn't expect it to be this early. Taking a deep breath he sighed, wondering what was going to happen and if he's see Santha ever again.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Demyan was very uncomfortable now after he sensed the High Priest so close to their room. He didn't like the aura or the fact that of all places they came here. He stayed still though as he laid next to Mele, pulling her closer to him. To hell if he was going to let them have her.

Ezri had been up for a little while now, getting ready for the day, she stepped around to the mirror near the blocked off corner for bathing and tucked a stray strand of hair into her braid, walking over and answering the door. "I always forget how early you are," Ezri said with a small smile. He was someone she really respected and she backed up a bit as she held the door open for him.

Santha was awake but fighting it a bit, she didn't want to be up, and she didn't want this to happen. She sat up slowly, pulling her now messy hair from its pigtails and shaking it out. Taking a moment to fix it back up how she liked it, she carefully reached over and squezzed Lavi's hand. Doing her best to reassure him, even though she wasn't confident herself.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Mele whimpered soundlessly, pressing closer into Demyans chest. She could tell how tense he was and to her that meant trouble, her arms slid around his waist. Staying as calm as she could, and waiting for any instruction he would give her, wanting more than anything to stay right where she was, safe with him.

"That's quite alright Ezri." He walked in, reaching over and pulling her into a hug. "It's been quite awhile, how have you been since your journey from home?" He didn’t mind changing the subject for the time being, he felt the worry in the room and felt it was best to relax everyone first before seeing about the User. "Why don't we get some tea and breakfast, while you tell me about your journey? Everyone is invited of course." He smiled, looking towards Santha. "Young lady, if you don't mind, you can remove those wrappings from the Users hands, there will be no need for those."

Lavi pushed himself to sit up, now that Santha was up he squeezed her hand back, a bit shocked at how kind the High Priest was, but he was still weary on how long it would last.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Demyan took a long deep breath and let it out to relax a bit more. The priest didn't stop at their room which calmed him down a bit, but he stayed alert just in case. Looking down at Mele he slid a hand to her head, stroking her hair a bit. "It's going to be alright. I'll make sure when we rid this world of this order that Priest will be one of the many to go down with it." He tried to reassure her.

Ezri smiled a bit, "Its good to see you, Radar, it has been too long," she said hugging him back, "This is Santha, Lavi, and the one still sleeping is Zoei, speaking of which," she triled off walking over to where Zoei laid, sitting next to him and lightly nudging his arm. "Zoei, we're going down to breakfast, why don't you get up and join us?" she asked speaking softly so as not to wake him harshly.

Santha nodded absently, but turned her attention to Lavi, immediantly freeing his hands. Leaning over to the side table she picked up her bag and pulled out his gloves. Handing them to him with a smile. "Better?"

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele let her arms loosen around Demyan, but she didn't let go, nodding slowly against his chest. "They'lll regret what they do to Users," she said in a near whisper, turning slightly so that her cheek was resting against his chest, she closed her eyes again trying to concentrate on how Demyans stroked her hair, so she could relax a little more, almost falling back into a light doze.

Zoei rolled over, his arm moving over his forehead a bit as he looked up at Ezri, he wasn't use to being woken up, but at least it wasn't a startle. Smiling as he let out a small yawn, he started to stretch. "Morning," He looked over at the window seeing the sun has barely even cracked over the kingdom and arched a brow. "A bit early, but that's alright, so what's going on?" He looked around, noticing Radar and jerked a bit, he didn't quite expect a stranger to be in the room.

Lavi nods as he returned a smile towards Santha, slipping on his gloves. Standing up slowly he turned toward her and offered her his hand.

Radar, kept a smile, his eyes were still shut closed, and Ezri knew he always had then that way. The only time he'd ever open them if he was really serious. "After breakfast, I’d appreciate it if I could speak with the young lady separately, then to the User with Ezri by my side. We can get better acquainted after breakfast though." I'll see you all downstairs though at a table." He didn't give them time to respond before he walked out of the room, quietly closing the door behind him.
As he made his way down the hall he stopped in front of the door where Demyan and Mele stayed. "I'd suggest you two not cause any trouble, it's not exactly the smartest to come here with that much evil intent." His eyes were open slightly as he looked at the door, making sure only they could hear him. "It would be safer for everyone’s lives if you just went home, you wouldn't want tragedy on both sides." He stopped there, closing his eyes again as he headed back down the stairs to wait for Ezri as well as the others. He sat at one of the empty tables near a window, already ordering a small cup of tea as he waited.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyans breath stopped for the time being while he listened to the High Priest, Mele could feel how tense he was this time, his grip tightened on her, he didn’t mean to hurt her, but the rage he felt against this Priest started to grow and Mele could tell by how bright his eyes were glowing.

Ezri lightly set her hand on Zoei's arm, "Thats the high priest Radar," she explained giving him a moment to get orienated. "I should have known he'd show up this early, he thinks the earlier you get up the better," she smiled at Lavi sighing a bit and shaking her head. "Did you sleep well?" She asked, walking over and picking up her cloak taking her time getting it fastened while she waited for the others to get ready.


Santha took Lavi's hand, squeezing it lightly as she stood. She was curious as to why the priest wanted to talk to her but brushed it off, smoothing her outfit a bit, and pulling on her boots. "Breakfast does sound good," she said, lacing her fingers with Lavi's. "Don't you think?" She knew he had hardly eaten anything for dinner, and figured he was half starved.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Mele whimpered lightly at the pain, but instead of pulling away squirmed a bit moving closer to him, she snuggled her nose against his shoulder. "Demyan." she barly whispered, knowing he'd be able to hear her.

Zoei watched as Ezri got ready, he moved to put his shoes on, and then brushed his fingers through his hair as if combing it before he put his hat on his head. "A lot better than I usually do." He got to his feet, stretching out once more as he headed to the door.

Lavi nods in agreement to Santha as he squeezed her hand that was laced with his. Letting her hand go for the moment he walked over and put his boots on. "I wonder what's going to be fore breakfast." He went back to Santha, taking her hand as she did him before. The more he was around her the more he started to grow attached to her.

Radar kept a small conversation with the inn keeper, every now and then sipping on his tea when he got it. He took off his thick framed, circular glasses and took out a handkerchief, cleaning them as he waited.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Hearing his name Demyan jerked a bit, letting Mele go. He looked down at her taking a deep breath then letting it out. As he pushed himself to sit up he pulled her in his lap to face her, moving his head to lean his forehead against hers. "It seems we better be more cautious than planned."

Once they were downstairs, Ezri took her seat, making sure to sit between Radar and Zoei, she placed her order, sitting back and waiting on the others a bit. "How have you been?" She asked Radar, wanting to pass time while they waited for their food.


Santha smiled when she saw the menu had pancackes and ordered some with milk and fruit, "Have you ever had the fruit perserves heated up on the pancakes?" she asked Lavi, for the time unconcerned with Radar.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Yea," Mele agreed setting her hands on top of his for the moment, she was a bit shooken up, but smiled softly. "I didn't expect to find a priest that was so powerful here, I'd always heard their high priest was really young," she closed her eyes a moment, dreading having to go downstairs if that priest was there.

Zoei sat between Ezri and Santha, wanting to make sure he at least had someone in-between himself and the User. Looking through the menu he made his order then handed the menu back to the waitress. Leaning against the table some he watched and observed how close Radar and Ezri were.

"It's been quite peaceful, well for the time being. This kingdom is now a sanctuary for all Users who wish for peace between them and plebians. It wasn't easy getting this place like this, but it was worth it in the end. Every now and then we get the occasional travelers who cause a ruckus; we deal with them as peacefully as possible. I have a bad omen though; it seems I may have to use force if it comes true." Radar informed Ezri, clasping his hands together on his lap. "Putting that aside, how many years has it been since I’ve seen you? You're getting strong as well as wiser by the years. I'm quite impressed." He gave her a reassuring smile as he slipped his glasses back on his face.

Lavi arched a brow. "Pancakes?" He had no clue what those were and they didn't sound too appetizing to him one bit. "I'll just get my usual for breakfast. Some bread and cheese is fine, with a drink of water. I'm not too picky." He leaned against the table some, a bit curious with Radar and Ezri's conversation.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"He's one to be more cautious of than most. I may have to take him down first, though he seems to be the kind a single User can struggle with." Quietly Demyan pulled Mele into a hug and rested his chin upon her head, planning how he'd take this High Priest down first.

"It's been five years," Ezri said, after all she was only 19 now. 'I guess I have grown a lot since then,' she thought shaking it off. "I know they sent you word of Fathers death a few years ago, I left not long after that." she paused a moment taking and stirring her tea a bit, "Back home isn't something I like to talk about, things changed a lot and very quickly after his death. And none of it was for the better," She took a drink of her tea, staring at it for a moment, shaking off bad memories. "I've been traveling ever since, I'm done with that life from before, some people labeled me as a 'hunter', but I'm good at it, and I like moving around, I'm not traveling alone this time, which I'm enjoying more than I thought I would," she said looking over at Zoei giving him a small smile, absently she ran her fingers lightly over the broach holding her cloak, the weight was different than what she was used to, but in a plesant manner. "So tell me more about your city here?" She asked leaning back in her chair

Santha frowned a little at that, "Haven't you ever had them? Pancakes are a way of making bread, its really good, their kinda sweet but not too much so," she looked down thoughtfully a moment shaking her head a bit, she forgot that Lavi grew up much harder than she did, smiling at him again, she leaned her chin on her hands, deciding to listen to what Radar had to say.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Mele stayed quiet, leaning on Demyan and letting him support her weight. She closed her eyes simply concentrating on her breathing, after a few moments relaxing almost completely against him.

"Wouldn't it be safer?" Santha asked softly, looking up at Lavi, "If we go traveling by ourselves and someone finds out your a User, they may try and capture you again," she frowned softly at that thought, she hadn't been much help beforehand, in fact she was the entire reason he was here to begin with. "I just don't want you to be in danger like before," she nearly whispered.


Ezri nodded softly at what Santha was saying, "Santha, would you mind going over to the counter and asking the waitress to come this way?" she asked, waiting for Santha's agreement and for her to walk away before continuing.
"She's right you know, I'm not saying you can't protect her, but that she can't protect herself. Santha's new to anything and everything outside of the small town she's from, if nothing else it will give a better chance for her to learn at least basic defense and how to be careful around a town.

Santha had wandered over near the window, after seeing that the bartender and the waitress were both there looking up at something. "Lavi, Ezri," she called moving so as they approached they could both see the light, and when it vanished.

"That's not right," Ezri mumbled, moving toward the door, "Santha, stay near Lavi, I'm going to check this out."
A few moments later she rounded the corner into the alley where the boys lay, rushing up to them, "Radar? Lavi!" Seeing the blood she carefully moved Radar, soon realizing the blood had been coming from Zoei, checking him over she was surprised to not find any wounds, but could still see how pale he was and that the blood had at least been coming from him.
She was on her feet a moment later, moving to find a few men that could move Radar and Zoei, using her knighthood as a sway in convincing them that this should be kept quiet, not wanting to start a problem for either Radar or Zoei here.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele realized that Demyan was in pain by the way he had nearly fallen and cringed, as soon as they were away from the area, she pulled forward out of his grasp and turned to face him. The worry for him plain on her face, she hadn't expected Demyan to rescue her the way he did, and felt awful, knowing that the reason that priest got away was because she had been used as bait against him. Pushing that aside for now, she stepped around Demyan checking on his back where she was sure Radar had injured him.
For right now, all she wanted to do was make sure Demyan was safe, if anything happened to him, she shook her head, even the mere thought that something could really happen to him brought tears to her eyes, she knew she had to do something to help him.
Lavi got up from his chair walking over to Santha, placing an arm on her shoulder as he looked out the window seeing where Ezri went. "This doesn't feel right..." He went quiet, then looked down at Santha. "You stay here, I'm gonna see what I can do. Don't worry, I'll be okay. Radar did say this is a town where both Users and Plebeians work together, I promise I'll return." He rested his hand softly on Santha's head smiling to reassure her, but before he could leave the tavern, he jumped back and pulled Santha to his chest so she wouldn't be able to see once then men brought Zoei and Radar in because the tavern was the closest place at the moment. Lavi stayed dead quiet, seeing if he could spot Ezri, a worried look on his face, feeling very uneasy now.

The waitress screamed and froze as the Bartender rushed over to help lead the men over to some empty rooms, getting what medical supplies they had to help. He pushed the men out as soon as they laid Radar and Zoei on the beds, looking over at Ezri, now with a warm bowl of water and wet rags. "We'll help however we can."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyan took a minute to relax his breathing to calm down. He slipped his shirt off, making sure they were in a more desolate place first. His body was already marked with light scars from his past. His left shoulder though was already showing a big welt and a bruise to match. Reaching his hand to touch it, he cast a light frost spell to cool it down a bit before looking over at Mele and sitting up more. Arching a brow some and letting out a sigh he reached over pulling Mele to his chest, resting his chin on her head. "I'm alright Mele, it isn't that bad, it's just really sore and it will take time to heal like all the others. I'm just glad you're alright. Don't you dare blame yourself for this. I didn't expect the priest to have help. I really didn't expect a Priest of the Order to be a User himself. I got out of there because I could sense if we stayed any longer we'd probably turn out like what I did to that boy. I didn't want anything happening to you." He tried to explain. He usually wasn't this nice, but the thought of Mele getting hurt scared him, he didn't want to be alone again like he was in the past.

Ezri nodded to the bartender, "Radar seems unharmed for the most part, and I can tell there was a lot of blood coming from Zoei, get them both stripped to their shorts, at the least we need to get the blood cleaned off of them, I'll be right back with the others," getting to her feet she moved outside to find Lavi and Santha,


Santha was puzzled but hearing all of the people moving around them she didn't try to move away, "Is everything okay?" She asked softly, once his grip on her loosened a little.


Spotting Lavi and Santha wasn't too difficult, she reached their side, "Zoei and Radar are upstairs, we don't know what happened yet, neither one of them seem very injured, but there's a lot of blood," she didn't want to scare Santha, but she also knew withholding things from her might make it worse later on if something else happened. "Santha, I want you to get clean hot water, and as many blankets as you can find, then bring them up to the room where the boys are, just make sure you knock on the door.
She waited for her to head off to do as she was asked, and took the chance to take Lavi up to the room, "I know that Zoei was coughing up blood," she explained.



*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


Mele leaned her head against his chest taking a deep breath to relax a little. "I'm okay," she almost whispered, running her fingers over a light scar on his chest, "I'm not hurt, and your okay, so I'm okay too," she circled her arms around his waist. She didn't like knowing that people had hurt Demyan in the past, much like they had to her, although she didn't have any scars she'd ever seen to prove it like he did. Deep in thought her hand drifted to her marred horn, softly tracing the scar like mark across the back of it. She wanted to be able to protect Demyan like he had for her, but it did make her feel good to know she could at least offer him some comfort and company when he wanted it.

Lavi went over to take a seat, trying to soak this all in. "So there was a struggle. Think once one wakes they can explain what happened?"

It didn't take to long for Radar to wake and see where he was. He grabbed the waitress by the arm startling her, then let her go and grabbed the covers covering himself more. He watched as the waitress ran out scared and shook his head before looking over to where they laid Zoei. He tried to prop himself up, but forgot his arm was injury's and flopped back down to his pillow sighing. He was good when it came to hiding his physical pain. "This is going to delay our plans." He mumbled under his breath.

The waitress now shaken up more headed quickly downstairs letting Ezri know Radar woke.

Lavi watched as the waitress ran up to Ezri and sighed with relief knowing that one was awake at least. He looked over at Santha, letting her know she should go help out. "I'll be down here waiting. I rather not be up there at the moment."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyan fell back on purpose, pulling Mele on top of him, a small chuckle coming from him. "I had him in my grasp." He sighed as he ruffled up her hair. "I say we leave this town for now and destroy it last. Let they feel like they're in danger or worried for a bit then when everything is passed and relaxed again we come back with some help and make this place into ruins."

Ezri thanked the poor shaken girl and headed upstairs, sitting in a chair that was placed between the two beds in the room, "Feeling better?" she asked softly waiting for Santha to come in before sending her down to fetch tea for Radar. "What can you tell me about what happened?" Her voice was soft but serious as she moved to adjust the pillows and help him sit up a bit better. "Do you need anything for that arm?"


Santha nodded softly at the request for tea, she was glad that he seemed to be better, and that they would know more about what was going on, she padded softly down the hall waiting for the tea before she would take it back upstairs.


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele grinned sighing softly as he messed with her hair, easily distracted by Demyans actions. "That's a great plan," she offered resting her hands flat on his chest. "He won't see it coming, and that priest will regret messing with you, just like his help did,"

Radar took his time to sit up and take a better look at his arm. "Doesn't seem to serious, but it will need a few stitches." He reached over to grab one of the warm wet towels and started wiping off his arm. "It was an ambush, though it was mainly aimed at me, Zoei though did save my life, even if it was a foolish way to do so. He needs rest, but I'm not sure if he'll be alright." His face saddened a bit knowing one way or another that Ezri was going to find out eventually. "I'm a User, Ezri. That's why you can't see the wound on Zoei. My powers are to heal, but at a great cost to myself. I managed to close his wound up, but I couldn't restore what blood he already lost. That in itself will take time. We'll just have to take shifts though, to make sure he'll be alright and recovers. I'm so sorry I didn't tell you this when we were younger." He lowered his head, intertwining his fingers together.

Lavi rested his hand to his chin, glancing around, watching as the bartender closed the tavern, and the waitress cleaned up the tavern. He raised his head watching as Santha went to get some tea and let out a deep sigh. It had him worried even more. He was the only User of the four and now with the Priest joining it made five people. He knew what dangers he could bring them. He hunched over resting his forehead on his hands now.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Exactly, but now lets head to the next kingdom. We'll stop in from town to town to rest up first though." He pulled himself up, helping Mele to her feet. "First things first we need a ride.
"Zoei's good at doing foolish things," Ezri said with a light shake of her head, remembering how he had tried to use Santha against Lavi. "He reacts quickly, which is a good thing, just doesn't always think things through when he does, but his intentions are normally good." Getting to her feet she moved to the closet and took out a small sewing kit from the first aide box, checking it over and making sure it was clean before sitting on the bed beside Radar.

Santha was humming softly as she came up the stairs, carefully carrying tea for Radar and Ezri, although she hadn't asked for it, she knew what kind Ezri preferred and thought it would be a nice gesture. "I brought the tea," she said softly, placing it down and pausing as she watched what Ezri was doing, "Are you going to sew up his arm?"

Had he been well she may have clocked him upside the head, however she could tell he was worried and that hiding it from her had been stressful for him. "I understand, Radar," she said softly taking his arm, and cleaning it out as much as she could. She nodded toward the table as Santha came in, talking to her a moment about what needed to be done with Radar's arm.
"Actually, I'd rather have you do the stitches in his arm," she said smiling at Santha softly, and waiting for her to nod in agreement before continuing.
"Santha's never done it to a person before, however she's likly the best seamstress we're gonna run across without having to wait for someone, and I'll be here to help guide her, its up to you." she said to Radar, waiting for his answer before letting Santha work on him.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele dusted off and straightened her dress, taking a moment to adjust her boots scooping up Demyan's shirt, and shaking it out and offering it up to him.
"He seems like they type to get you into a lot of trouble." Radar joked a bit before nodding to let Santha take care of him. "We'll need to get the boy some clean clothes as well. Did he bring any extra clothes with him on his journey here?" Reaching over with his good arm he took the tea holding still enough for Santha as he sipped it lightly.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyan took his shirt draping it over his good shoulder before walking over to a random stable. crooking his finger at one of the horses, he managed to get it to come to him as he made another coach with his magic. He took his time hooking the horse up, wondering what he should do about a driver.
Making sure to carefully instruct Santha, Ezri shook her head, "Not that I know about, I ran across him when I found Lavi, I don't know much about him yet, but that he's been traveling on his own for a long time now." Moving to check up on Zoei, she tucked him in a little better. "We can worry about clothes when he does wake up."


Finishing up his arm, Santha smiled pleased with herself. Excusing herself she headed downstairs eager to tell Lavi about helping Radar, she paused seeing the way he was leaning against the table.
Thinking a moment, she walked up and sat at the table, singing a soft song, and reaching over to give Lavi a hug. "Are you okay? You seem kinda sad."


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele watched as Demyan made the coach, its still fascinated her to see him use his powers. She walked full circle around the conjured coach, silently wondering why she didn't have something that was useful, rather than just her horns. She returned to the front of the coach and spent a few moments petting the horse, "He's a nice horse," she said aloud, patting his soft nose.

"The one who abushed was a powerful User, but somehow the user had a friend of his with him, and that's when Zoei intervened. He was only trying to stop the fight, but instead got impaled through the chest." He waited to tell this to Ezri once Santha was already out of the room and downstairs. "I wasn't about to let your new friend die on you. You've already lost you father, you don't need to loose anyone else."

Lavi jerked up startled a bit, then relaxed some once he saw it was Santha. "Um, yeah I'm alright. Just thinking a tad to much I guess." He tried to crack a smile for her. "Are they going to be alright?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyan didn't like using so much useless power in one day, but shook his head figuring it'd probably be better to get to a new town and relax on the way sooner than never at all. Looking around the area he grabbed up a few odds and ends, conjuring a dummy and placing a cloak around it. He gave it some temp life so to fool any curious plebian and gave it the reigns.
Walking around to the horse he wrapped his arm around Mele and lead her inside the coach. It was dark and comfy, just how he liked it. Finally being able to sit, he closed the windows on the coach, making one last flick of his wrist to get the coach moving on it's way.
"Do you have any idea why you were attacked by this User?" She asked, giving a sad smile about her dad. "I'm glad Zoei's alright, and I'm sure he'll get better soon, although he'll need to take it easy for a little while, which I suspect is going to be the hard part," she paused thoughtfully then nodded to herself softly. "I don't know a lot about him yet, other than something happened in his past to make him highly dislike guards and knights, but he's proven himself to me, and I really trust him." Offering Radar a small smile she leaned back in the chair some, "I don't plan on loosing anyone else, that is why we'll watch each others backs on this journey."

Santha nodded softly, telling him how Ezri was teaching her some first aide skills and about stitching up Radar's arm. "Mister Radar seems to be fine, and Ezri says his arm will heal up sooner than I think, Zoei is still unconscious, they said he lost a lot of blood, but there aren't any injuries on his body. Do you think its possible that someone healed Zoei?" She leaned forward against the table wondering what could have happened in that alley. "They said that Users and Plebians worked together here, so do you think another User could have powers that would heal someones wounds?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Once the coach started to move, Mele carefully pulled off her boots, getting comfortable one on of the soft cushions. "I'll keep first watch, so you can rest up," she offered softly, knowing he needed to be careful with his shoulder so it would heal faster. She didn't expect to be stopped, however learned the hard way a long time ago, that you needed to be ready for things like that.

Radar shook his head. "I've never seen that user in this Kingdom before." He watched how Ezri responded around Zoei more. "Are you going to tell him?" He asked, knowing she was a knight herself. "Or are you going to let him find out on his own?"

"I don't know, I really don't. I don't know much when it comes to other users, or the powers they may carry with them. But it could be possible." He started to smile again watching the curious look on Santhas face. "So you're not only good with stitching clothes, your good at stitching wounds to. Maybe you should become a Doctor someday." He suggested jokingly.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyan didn't even give it a second thought on her offer and started to lay across the opposite seat from her, making sure not to lay on him injured arm. "We'll be safe, so you should get some rest as well."
Ezri sighed softly, "I am going to tell him, I'm just not sure exactly how to yet," she answered remembering how he'd reacted the last time she merely mentioned something about knights in a town. "Its not really something that's relevant right now, I've been retired from that life for a good while already, although I would like to talk to him more about what happened that they bother him so before telling him." She met Radar's gaze giving him a soft smile, "What do you think I should do?"


Santha scrunched up her nose at the thought of being a doctor, "I don't like blood and all that gross stuff," she said sticking her tongue out. "But I don't think there are many ways to support oneself with just traveling and singing." She stretched out, a little worn from the day, "Oh, Ezri said that since the boys are taking up both the beds we have the room next to the one they are in, it only has one bed, but she said that it shouldn't be a problem."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele nodded lightly and laid on her side, crossing her arms under her head, she wasn't sure how long they would be traveling this time, but hoped that the User Demyan was seeking would be found soon, that way the priest who had hurt him, would pay even faster for it.

"It's actually up to you really. It took me years to tell you about my own powers. But if the order were to find out, I'd be stripped of my title. So I'd wish for this news to be secret. I hid it from my own mother before she died. Telling her on her death bed though was one of the worst things I have ever done. She refused to see me in her last moment and was terrified of me. Called me a monster and said I wasn't her son." He looked down at his hands. "So you can see why I was afraid to tell you. Besides my own mother I looked up to you and your Father as my family as well." Radar placed his hand on his neck rubbing it some. "sometimes things are best left as secrets."

Lavi just got to his feet, offering a hand to Santha. "You never know, maybe you can become a great performer someday in one of the large Kingdoms, but for now, lets get some rest. I'd like to get some sleep to relax a bit more."
"Sad to say, that even in a place where Users are able to live in peace that the Order still thinks that way," she shook her head softly getting up and sitting next to him on the bed instead. "Your secret is safe with me, and you ARE family," she hugged him tightly being careful not to hurt his injured arm. "But you should get some rest, it will help you heal up better. Once your both back in good health we can head out."

Santha nodded and took Lavi's hand, smiling at that thought. She stopped by the room Ezri and the others were in, letting her know that they were going to bed, and making sure they didn't need anything else for the night.
Catching up to Lavi she was already humming a soft tune, as she started to prepare for bed, pulling out her hair ties and brushing out her hair, and carefully setting her boots up by the bed.

"That is true, Radar's not one who'd be good at that, but he may surprise you," Ezri said softly unable to hide her smile at hearing him whine. "I'll take personal responsibility on finding you 'threads' that you'll like," she finished her braid, and tossed it lightly over her shoulder, moving next to him on the bed and checking that his temperature was good. Silently working up a plan on getting him clothes just like the ones he loved so much.

Santha relaxed a little, lightly resting her head against his shoulder, enjoying the peaceful time with him, and getting to watch the people around them. Closing her eyes she began to sing a soft song, not quite like her lullaby but still very calm.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele sat on the floor of the coach, frowning as she watched Demyan's expression and how he was laying, she could tell that he was still hurting. Thinking for several minutes, not wanting to wake him but wanting to help his arm, unable to think of a way to help the pain, she stayed where she was for the moment leaning her head lightly against his knee wanting to offer what comfort she could

Zoei was very unsure about this now. How in the world could she find exactly what he likes if she doesn't know his tastes to well. Shaking his head he tried to forget about it and just let her do whatever. He tilted his head leaning over some to get a good look at Radar the best he could. "Your Brother, however you put it. Um, he doesn't look to well." He arched a brow looking back up at Ezri. "Are you sure he didn't get hurt after I blacked out?"

Zoei was right though Radar was already in a cold sweat. It took awhile but the bad side of his powers started to react. His temperature rose, but nothing to serious as he could feel what Zoei felt when he was hurt. Only he knew though of the worst his power did to him though.

Lavi closed his eyes, listening intently to her lovely song for a good while before looking up at the sky. "Maybe we should pick something up for everyone, they might be hungry since it's nearing lunch time."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Feeling Mele lean against his knee made Demyan jerk up quick out of his rest, his claws came out, coming inches from her face. It didn't take him long to notice it was only Mele before he retracted them and relaxed some, not giving her time to move away before he picked her up and placed her on his lap.

Ezri checked Radar's temperature then walked out of the room, returning a few moments later with a basin of water and a cloth for his head. "I'm not really sure, he wasn't conscious when I got there," she took time to cool him off with the cloth, before ringing it out again and placing it on his forehead. "I'll be right back," she said, heading downstairs again.
Once there she found the bartender, and asked for two things to be done, one for medicines for a fever and to get in contact with the best seamstress in town. Returning upstairs, she again checked on Radar, doing what she could to keep his fever down.


"I agree," Santha replied, sitting up a little bit, before getting to her feet. She held her hand out to Lavi, waiting for him to take it before starting to walk through the market, hunting something good to have for the lunch time meal.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele didn't flinch as the claws came close, only closed her eyes, she hadn't intended on waking him. "Your shoulder," she murmured, her only protest against being picked up, not wanting to cause him any trouble for his injury.

Zoei took this as a chance to slowly get out of the bed, take a shower and find where they placed his pants at least, slipping them on, dirty or not. He stood there quietly tracing his finger where the wound would have been, a towel draped over his wet hair. He looked up as Ezri came back in. He knew something was odd, but couldn't place it. "Maybe when he wakes you could ask what's going on. I saw the User attack him with 2 different weapons but they both were the same. At first it was a sword, then it transformed into a whip with barbs." He explained a bit on what went on in the ally way where they were attacked before walking over to the window.

It didn't take the waitress to come up her hands shaking as she gave Ezri the medicine she asked for. "The other thing you asked for will be here within the next hour or two." She looked up seeing Zoei up on his feet and rushed out quickly, baffled.

Lavi followed, looking at a few places. He had no clue what everyone else would eat, but decided to leave that decision to Santha.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyan glared a bit at Meles' little protest or a murmur. "Hush you...It'll get better in time. It's not broken, so it'll be fine." He softened his look a bit, leaning his head down a touch, kissing the corner of her eye. "You worry to much."

Ezri thanked the waitress, shaking her head lightly, "Poor girl's trying at least," she mumbled turning to Zoei. "The User may have used his power to change the weapon, he may have created it from his powers for all we know," she made sure to give Radar the medicine, before walking over to the window next to Zoei.
"You shouldn't be on your feet too much, I know having to lie down is annoying, but your still really pale," she touched her hand to his forehead, checking his temperature before nodding softly, "As long as your careful, I think it will be okay, and we'll talk to Radar more after he wakes." She placed her arm around his shoulders giving him a gentle hug, just glad he was doing better.

Santha picked out a place that did sandwiches, it was a simple meal, but one that they could all eat easily. She spent a little bit of time placing the order, letting Lavi pick out what he liked and choosing for the others.


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

A slight confusion flashed through Mele's eyes along with a very light blush, she didn't look up from his chest, she wasn't used to such affection since the lady, and even then it had been a very rare thing, her mind seemed to race a moment before deciding that she liked it. A small smile formed, and she simply nestled her head to Demyan's chest, "Don't want anything to happen to you," she answered, lightly tracing her fingertips over one of his scars her other arm carefully wrapped around him, making sure not to put pressure on his hurt side. "I'll try not to worry, its just I don't know what I'd do if you were gone,"

Zoei still wasn't use to the affection and stiffened up a bit again when Ezri gave him a gentle hug. Looking away from her he stayed quiet for a bit. "Sorry..." He mumbled quietly to her, apologizing for how he was responding to her affection.

It took Lavi quite awhile to decide. He still wasn't use to picking out so much in public, being a thief and all. He did manage to choose though to make Santha happy.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyan went more quiet than usual, knowing all to well what it was like being alone, but never to really loose someone. He thought about it then nodded in response to Mele. He knew that he would never want to know the feeling of loosing her period and just pulled her into a tight hug, resting his chin on her head.

Ezri blinked confused by his apology for a moment, "I'm guessing that saying I'm not upset with you, lots of guys are weird when girls hug them, isn't going to get a good response, so I'll just say that your forgiven," she gave him a half grin, scrunching up her nose at his pants. She spent a few moments going through the things in the room, before producing a pair of sleeping pants. "How about, you change into these, and I'll see if we can't get the blood out of your threads?" she offered, placing them in his hand, and making a show of turning her back while she checked on Radar. "There's a shirt that goes with them in the drawer if you want that as well,"

Santha got a basket to put the food in, picking out some fruit to have as a snack later. "Unless there's anything else you want to pick up, we can head back with lunch," she said, grinning at Lavi both her hands occupied with the basket.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele was over thinking, about the lady and now Demyan getting hurt, she closed her eyes tightly trying to block out the thoughts of bad things from her mind, not having much luck with it. Feeling his arms tighten, she took a slow deep breath, her hand tightening to a fist resting on his chest a few light tears making their way down her cheeks, she didn't want to cry, or to upset Demyan more than he already was.

Zoei arched a brow at the sleeping pants, shrugging as he changed into them. "It's not that." He responded quietly. "It's just the last person to ever hug me like so, was my mother, and well, yeah..." He didn't know how to explain it to well. Explaining anything about after his mothers death was hard on him. How could he tell her about all that happened in his past. Shaking his head he sat on the window seal, tossing his pants on a nearby chair. It wasn't like she would understand him anyways, he thought to himself.

"Hum, think we should pick up a little something that might cheer Ezri up after what happened. That and a couple get well gifts for the Priest and of course the so called thief?" Lavi suggested, a slight chuckle coming from him as he thought how Zoei didn't think to well in so many situations. He was wondering how in the world Zoei decided to become a thief in the first place.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Feeling Mele tighten her grip, his face softened more as he started to lightly rub her back with his hurt arm. "it's alright to cry, I won't let anyone else know if you do. Besides, it's not like there's anyone to tell, and if they did as well as decided to make fun of you for it I'd cut out their tongue." He tried to joke with her the best he could, not really being the best at it though.

Making sure that Radar's fever was staying in check, she stepped over to Zoei placing her hand over one of his, "You don't have to talk about it if it makes you uncomfortable," she said giving his hand a gentle squeeze. "I can't say I'll make it better, or you'll feel better if you do, but if you do feel like talking about it, I'll be here to listen." She chewed her lip a moment before gently letting his hand go, "I'm gonna take your 'threads' to be washed, it'll give you a few minutes with your thoughts, but I'll be right back after that." Scooping up his tattered and blood covered clothes, she gave him a encouraging smile and headed downstairs.
One there, she explained exactly what she wanted done with his clothes, handing them over to be dealt with. Before ordering a few more drinks for upstairs, waiting for them before walking back up.

"That sounds like a good idea," Santha agreed, "I'm not sure what would be good for Zoei, or Mister Radar, but I'm sure we'll find something," she was really enjoying her day out walking around and shopping with Lavi, and was glad to have an excuse to stay out a bit longer.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

There were still tears in her eyes, but she smiled softly and almost laughed hearing his words, loosening her fist she slid that hand across his chest to the forearm of his injured arm, not wanting him to move it more than was necessary to help it heal, she was conflicted because the attention was also comforting and soothing to her. "Lady only one who ever held me an that was rare, not if the man or the boy was home, not till now," she mumbled not once looking up from his chest, she was calmer now, although her breath was still a bit shaky, she sniffled softly relaxing against him.


Zoei sighed as he watched Ezri leave, then moved his gaze to Radar. He was more curious at the moment why he was hurt when Ezri said he didn't look like he had a scratch on him. Walking over to the bed the priest was laying in, he sat in a nearby chair. "Brother figure huh?" me mumbled to himself. He didn't expect he'd get so jealous over someone takeing Ezri, then again he still didn't know much about her, but he really wanted to get to know her more. He managed a smile thinking about the fuyure and getting to know her, maybe even become her boyfriend, then shook his head. He was just a thief why would anyone like such a low class person as himself.

Radar seemed to wake not soon after Zoei gave his smile and arched a brow. It was quite strange to his but he kept quite to leave Zoei in his thoughts.

"I have no idea. maybe get Zoei a new pouch to pilfer junk in?" Lavi joked. "Though I'm not to sure about Radar, I really don't know him to well, besides seeing him drink tea." He scratched his nose some then looked down, reaching over and taking a bag or two from Santha to help her out a bit.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Lady?" Her bringing this up made Demyan a bit curious, he didn't know to much on her past, only that when he finally found her that she was alone and nothing more.

Ezri pushed the door open as she came back to the room, seeing Zoei sitting closer to Radar she set the tray of drinks down on the counter giving Radar a smile, seeing that he was awake. "How are you feeling?" She asked, carefully sitting down on the side of the bed, placing her hand on his head to check that his fever was still down then looked over to Zoei, smiling softly, glad that both of them were doing better it seemed.

"OH! Since I know Ezri also like hot tea, and the trip will take a while, what if we get one of those boxes of tea for each of them?" she suggested. "I think most of Zoei's things he wore were ruined, so a new pouch is a good idea," walking to another booth, she picked up one that was similar in color to what Zoei generally wore. "What about this one?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele nodded slowly "I don't remember anything before living with her, the boy called her Mother, they lived in a big house, upstairs from me," she went on softly describing the house by its size and her room in great detail she had been proud of her broken mirror since most of the time it was her only companion, although not directly saying she lived in her families basement, it was clear that it she did.
"I never talked to the boy or the man, was supposed to be quiet, other people weren't aloud to know that you were there. Lady taught me lots of things, I learned from the boys school lessons, and I got his old clothes when he was too big for them anymore." she paused a moment thinking how to explain. "The Lady started getting sick, she said that anyone who was a User was killed by law in the town we lived in, and my horns meant I was one. I left when they were burying her in the ground, the man said it was my fault, but I know it wasn't, but Lady also said that she wouldn't be able to protect me from the priest man there if she didn't get better, that was a long time ago, before the people in the barn hurt my head, and that was almost five winters ago," she sighed deeply feeling safe with him holding her.

"I'm doing better." Radar smiled up at Ezri, sorry he worried her, but didn't show it. "So I see your friend is up and well. There were no complications I hope." Already getting things down to the point, he was good at that. "So did you two have some time alone to talk, or still need some, I don't mind leaving the room. Besides, we might be late if I don't get up and get things ready to leave."

Zoei tilted his head a bit. "Wait, what? Where are we going?" This was news to him, he had no clue or any word was told to him about leaving anywhere soon. Unless she was leaving alone with the priest, if that was the case that started to upset him.

Lavi picked up the bag from Santha's hand, checking out it's durability and what materials it was made out of. "You have a good eye. This will last him quite a long time." He knew she was good at sewing, dancing and singing, but now such a great eye for finding things. The more he was around her the more he started liking her more than a friend, though he wouldn't tell her that. He was more afraid if it was true she'd reject him, or if not, get hurt cause of him.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyan quietly listened to her explanation and narrowed his eyes a bit when he heard about her horn and the people in the barn. It faintly came to his memory seeing something like it. He slowed his breathing as he moved to hold Mele in one arm while he tapped his chin with his other, trying to remember.

"Leave it to you to be on your death bed, and then wanting to head out in the morning," Ezri said, giving Radar a half smile. She nodded lightly at Zoei, stepping over to him. "I was planning on asking you once I was sure you were better, but Radar never fails to get to the point. I've agreed to go with Radar to get things he needs from the other Kingdoms, I'm not sure how safe of a journey or long of one it will be." She paused a moment dreading that as far as she knew he might just tell her no, and she didn't want to be separated from him.
"Anyway, I wanted to ask you if you would come along as well, I know its not your normal style of traveling, and I'm not sure if you'll be comfortable traveling with Lavi and Santha again, but I would really love to have your company and. So. I'm asking you to come with me," she glanced down a touch, worried that his answer was going to be no, epically knowing that Lavi was going to be coming along.

Santha grinned looking through the cases of tea they had, picking out two that had a variety of things in them along with sturdy cups for traveling. "Lavi what do you think of these?" Waiting for him to come and look them over, she stepped back to the booth that had the pouches, picking out another and a set of gloves, that she paid for and slipped into one of the other bags she was holding, trying to make sure he didn't see. "Think they will like them?" she asked leaning on his arm lightly.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele mistook his thoughtful gesture as wanting to know more, she took a slow deep breath before continuing. "I spooked some horses, the older couple that owned them were nice at first, then in the morning there were a lot of people, they said they wanted to make me better, so I could be one of their kids, and gave me what they called wine. I don't know what it really was only that it made me sleep, when I woke up my arms were all bound up and there was someone sitting on my back," she sighed softly, almost nuzzling her head into its spot on Demyan's chest.
"I don't like being confined, and held down, then there was this weird noise it was kinda vibrating in my head, like when you lean your head against the side of a cart on a bumpy path. Then it hurt a lot, worse when I tried to get free and the one making my horn hurt pulled on it, like he was trying to make it come off," absently she moved one of her hands to the mark on the back of her horn.
"Then there was an explosion, people were yelling about a very dangerous User, he pulled me away from the running people and burnt away the ropes, said something..." she trailed off, thinking a moment to recall exactly what the User had said.

"I guess you would call me stubborn like that." Radar joked toward Ezri.

Zoei had a look on his face that seemed like he swallowed his heart on the first part of her explanation. But once the question was asked he couldn't help but blurt out and answer. "Yes!" He shook his head trying to say it softer, but instead not thinking about the words as they came out. Only that he didn't want to pass up his chance. "I'd follow you anywhere, uh..um, yeah I mean, why wouldn't I?" He smacked his forehead, already blushing as he turned his back to her trying to shut himself up. "What I really mean is sure, I'd love to come." He couldn't believe how much he embarrassed himself, and in front of a priest to.

Radar had one of his hands over his mouth, he couldn't help but laugh at Zoei's, foolishness. He knew now that this was going to be one interesting trip if the boy came along.

Looking at the cups he shook his head at one, putting it back as he inspected the others, making sure they were made out of the right materials so they wouldn't make anyone sick out of wear and tare though their coming journey. Then just thinking about this journey started to get him worried. He tried to shake it off so not to worry Santha to much. "These cups will do just fine, they don't need to be designed special at all, just that they work for our Journey to come. Though if you wanted, you could probably ask the owner of the shop to get their names engraved into the sides of the cups." He suggested, maybe if they did that to all the cups, if someone got sick, they wouldn't risk getting everyone else sick and that would take one worry off his mind.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"...you filthy vermin..." Demyan interrupted her. "...What do you think you're doing to this child that's far superior than you'd ever come to imagine..." He looked down at her, his memories were faint, but it got a bit clearer once he thought more about it and the situation. "He was already in the town around when he heard the whispers and plans they were conjuring up about a young girl with horns of a Devils." He sighed a bit, moving his hand over hers, pulling it away from her horn. "It took him awhile, but he finally got wind of where it was happening. Once the girl was drugged they said they'd free her from her Curse and make her better. A lot of people had worse suggestions that what they attempted to do to her, but the owner said they didn't want to hurt or kill the girl. Then again they never knew anything when it came to us. Once the boy found the place he didn't hesitate, he heard the noises from outside the barn, he was scared he was to late but barged in anyways, killing every plebeian in sight. He only let a few get away so they would know of our power. But after freeing the girl she ran away and for a long time after that he was saddened. For he thought it was he who scared her away." He went quiet, already thinking about how long he searched and the troubles he went through just to find her again.

Ezri looked up at his yes, and was smiling by the time he stopped talking, she turned and gave Radar a look that clearly told him to be nice in case he was thinking about teasing Zoei although she was still smiling. Turning back to Zoei she simply leaned over his shoulder and placed a soft kiss on his cheek. "I was really hoping you would want to come and say yes, I was worried that you wouldn't want to come and that I wouldn't see you again."
Not wanting to embarrass him further she turned to Radar, continuing about the journey, "As long as both of you are up to it, we can leave as early as the morning, after Lavi and Santha get back we can get anything extra for the trip," she moved over to the desk and handed him a list, containing supplies for as comfortable a journey as possible, including everything from easily accessible foods, starter wood for fires, camping supplies, a trunk of blankets so there would be many more than they needed just in case and the like.

Santha rocked back and fourth on her heels a moment thinking about his suggestion, "If they engrave it too much won't it make the cups weaker?" She asked softly thinking, "Colors!" she almost shouted, clapping her hands together, "How about we get each cup in a different color, Ezri can have the green cup, because it matches her hair, and you can pick which color you like, we can get Zoei that color he seems to like to wear, Mister Radar can have a white one, because he's a priest, and I'll get a different one too," she looked up at Lavi seeing the worry on his face but not knowing the reason. "Do you think that is a good idea? Or will engraving them be easier?" She shifted the food basket, shopping with Lavi was fun but she was starting to get tired, although she didn't want to complain. "Lavi, when were done here can we go eat?" she asked softly, not wanting to be a bother but knowing he wouldn't know what she wanted if she didn't ask.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele looked up at him cutting her off, it took her a moment to realize he was talking about himself. The realization was plain across her face and she couldn't help but smile, "It was you," she whispered holding on to the hand that had pulled her from her horns she moved to sit up just a bit, so she could shake her head. "Led me to outside, then went back in," she explained softly, "I wasn't scared of him, of, of you, but I knew if I stayed there that the people might find me and hurt me again, so I ran as far as I could, till I couldn't run anymore." She frowned softly thinking, there was so much that Demyan had done for here, even saving her a long time ago, and she really wanted to do something for him as well, but couldn't think of anything that would do.

Page 14:

Ezri slept easily, and woke just as the sun was rising she sat up, stretching her arms high above her head carefully getting out of the bed so that she wouldn't wake Zoei, leaving her boots where they sat for a moment, she went to see if Radar was up, fully expecting him to be, but unsure because of how ill he had been.

Santha had cuddle close to Lavi in the night, and was slowly waking on her own even though it was early, she was a little nervous about this trip. Opening her eyes she brushed her hair away from her face, not wanting to move just yet.


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele's stomach was growling before she opened her eyes, instead of sitting up she simply nestled a little more into Demyans arms, forgetting that neither of them had taken time to eat the day before.

Radar was already ready and just about to head out. He was a bit slower than usual, but for the most part better than yesterday. He quietly closed the door behind him making sure not to wake Lavi and Santha.

Lavi was still resting, his arm resting over his forehead ads his other rested across his stomach. He slept quite peaceful, knowing the more rest he got the more he would be awake on the journey and alert just in case.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The carriage was already stopped and hidden in a safe place as Demyan waited for her to wake. "We should get some food, you sound hungry."

Waving quietly to Radar, she slipped downstairs, asking the bartender for some hot tea, and ordering food for the room as soon as the kitchen was available to do so.

Santha sat up only when Ezri brought in the food, she helped her set it down on the table, careful to let Lavi wake on his own.

Ezri returned to the room she was sharing with Zoei, setting the food and drinks for them down on the small table, before carefully sitting on the bed next to him, she gently rubbed his back, wanting to wake him as gently as possible.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele frowned softly, slowly sitting up, she didn't really want to leave the spot she was in but knew that they really did need to eat. "Hows... shoulder?" she mumbled, rubbing her eyes with her fists, much the way a child would.

Radar waved back to Ezri before heading out to the Order.

Zoei took a deep breath smelling the aroma of food as he cracked a smile. He looked up at Ezri a light moan from him not wanting to get up but forced himself to do so anyways. "What's for breakfast?"

Lavi took his time getting up, automatically getting dressed before even thinking of eating.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"It's feeling better." Demyan reassured her. "What would you like to eat?"

"Fresh eggs, bacon, hash browns, fresh biscuits, with warm jam and apple butter for them," She smiled a bit ruffling his hair before getting up, "I figured it would be a while before we get to eat like this again, so we may as well enjoy it."

Santha was munching on one of the biscuits with apple butter covering it, her hair was still down and she had only run her fingers through it, but she was more hungry than worried about it for the time being. "Don't let the food get cold, its really good warm like this," she said with a small grin, using her foot to nudge the chair across from her out a little for him.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Covering her mouth with both hands as she yawned getting to her feet with a light stretch, "Umm... Hotcakes?" she said trying to think of what was supposed to be breakfast foods, normally she just ate whatever was available at any time, "Are they good hot? Lady made them, but they were always cold," she plopped down on the seat across from Demyan, adjusting her boots and socks, "I had this thing once, it was a biscuit, but it had potato in the middle, person called it a Knish! Those are really good! Epically with milk and mustard, but not just mustard plant, thats gross," Now that she was awake the thought of food, really had her perked up.

Zoei stuck his tongue out some as she ruffled his hair. "Sounds good, though I was thinking. since Santha and Lavi had their day of shopping, think we can ours?" He grinned as he got up to sit across from her to eat.

Lavi made his way over sitting across from Santha before picking up one of the biscuits, munching on it. "What should we do today?" He pondered to her.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyan chuckled as a light smile crossed his lips. "Alright then, do you want me to conjure them up or wait till we get to a nearby town?"

"We aren't supposed to be heading out till a little after lunch time, so it sounds like a good idea to me," she finished up her meal then took a moment to step over and let Santha and Lavi know that they were going to do some shopping, and get anything else they thought they might need on the trip. Before heading back into the other room, sitting back down to finish her tea while Zoei finished his meal.

"I wouldn't mind doing some more looking around the town," she answered, "As long as we meet Ezri, Zoei, and Mister Radar back here in time to go right?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele puffed up her cheeks thinking for a moment before she answered, "Maybe wait till we get to town, so we have a chance to stretch our legs and all," she frowned softly thinking, "Unless its very far, then we should have them now."

After he finished, Zoei stood up and went to grab a shower. He felt horrible and though he probably smelled bad to. He hung his clothes on one of the racks so he could dress back into them after his shower. Taking his time, he thoroughly inspected himself making sure nothing was amiss or out of place. It still stumped him how he got hurt so bad, but not felt and looked like nothing happened to him, even if a user healed him it was still baffling. Once out he dried off and got dressed remembering he took a shower yesterday. Walking out of the bathroom he had a disappointed look on his face. He didn't need to take that shower so what was the real reason he took it. Sighing he gave up thinking about it for whats done is done and sat down across from Ezri again, drying his hair with the towel. "So besides what's on the list to get, you think we're missing anything?"

Lavi nodded in agreement. "That works, but remember we don't want to tire ourselves out before we start on our journey." Picking up a glass of milk he leaned back, taking small drinks from it.

Finally at the Order, Radar gave his report as he started to gather the things that were on Ezri's list, double checking everything. "I don't know how long i'll be gone, but this will be for the best, I will return safely, for I have my dear friend Ezri to help me on my way." He explained to one of the other priests. "If anything goes wrong here don't hesitate to send a carrier pigeon. I'll make sure to let you know where I am every time we make a longer stop."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"A small town shouldn't be to far from the Kingdom." Demyan informed her as he started the carriage again. "We'll stop there to grab a bite to eat. just wait around an hour or so longer then alright?"

"Something bothering you?" Ezri asked at the face he had made, while he was showering she had gotten cleaned up and was sitting on the bed, her cloak draped over the chair and her braid still undone where she had been brushing out her hair. "Not that I can think of, I wouldn't mind getting a few things to make the trip more comfortable though. I think the worst part about long trips are when they are boring, and you don't have something to occupy your mind," she admitted shaking her head softly before running the brush through her hair one last time, deciding to leave it down for now.

Santha nodded in agreement, stretching out and getting to her feet, "That's true," letting him take his time to finish his meal, she started getting ready for the day, she finished up sitting on the bed and pulling her boots on, tapping them lightly to make them sit right, "Won't we spend most of the day just sitting in the cart anyway? So if we're tired, we can just get a small nap!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele nodded lying with her back on the seat but her legs still over the side, she wasn't really tired anymore just starting to feel a little cooped up, she closed her eyes taking a slow deep breath, relaxing against the soft cushions.

"Nah, not really anymore." He watched her as she brushed her hair, a little curious on how she braided her hair. "Oh, um, yeah, but what can we find to occupy ourselves on our way there? Do you have anything specific in mind?" Zoei knew he had his dice, that usually kept his occupied, well that and he had to focus more on their trip making sure they went the right way.

"Well, if you wish to take a nap, that's fine with me. Personally I'd like to see the path and the scenery on the way, maybe even walk some on the way their if we get a chance to do so." Lavi explained some. "Though we will need to see if they sell fishing equipment here if you want me to show you how to fish." He smiled.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demyan watched her carefully and shook his head. "If you want we can make a stop before we get there so you can stretch your legs." He suggested.

Ezri shrugged lightly, maybe some cards, I know plenty of games, maybe some outdoor cooking utensils, so we can have some nice fresh meals here and there." She combed her fingers through her hair, it felt nice to leave it down for a bit, although she was planning on putting it back into its braid before they left, that would keep it cleaner and neater on the trip. "Ready to head out?"

Santha nodded, helping to stack up the breakfast dishes, to take with them downstairs, she made sure that her bag was all together, as well as the basket that held the cups and other things they had bought for the trip, so they would be ready to go as soon as Radar and Ezri said so. She stretched her arms out, grinning lightly, "Then lets go get some fishing things!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele shook her head lightly, not lifting it up off the seat, stopping meant more time before they could eat, and she could walk around some then, besides she was comfortable again. "Unless you want to," she answered, thinking about her room at the Lady's house, and wondering if it was still there.

Zoei got up and walked over, looking through his clothes that were salvaged, picking up one of his now stained bags and pulling out a deck of card that seemed a bit stained now to. "Well, I guess I do need another stack of cards then." He double checked on his dice and wiped them off. "At least my Dice aren't ruined." Standing back up he made sure to grab what he stole/saved in coins and walked towards the door. "Ready as I'll ever be." Tossing the towel on the bed he put his bandanna on and smirked waiting for her.

Lavi got up from his seat finishing his drink as he headed downstairs with Santha. He handed the glass to the barmaid and thanked her before holding the door open for Santha.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Demayn shook his head. "I'm fine, it should take too long and we don't want to wear out the horse before we get there. So as soon as we're in a town I'll make sure to leave the steed at that town. We can find another. This way, once we're there we can stretch out, find something to eat and maybe see if we can find another horse."

Ezri shook her head, lightly at his cards, "We'll get you a new pack then," she smiled pausing to put on her cloak and follow him out the door, used to putting it on while she was moving, she easily closed it and checked that the broach he had given her was still clasped. "I really do like it," she said softly, grinning up at him, "C'mon, lets see if we can't have some fun before we head out for a long trip."

Santha thanked him stepping out into the morning light, reaching out for his hand she started towards the market side of town, "Maybe we should start from the opposite side this time?" she suggested trying to think of anything else they would want. She paused at a place that sold instruments, smiling softly, "I wish I could have brought mine, but it was too bulky," she said softly looking over the string instruments, "It would likely get broken easily anyway. Is this it?" She asked pointing out a place that sold fishing poles and other things.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Sounds like a good plan," Mele offered, moving one hand behind her head to listen to the sounds from the wheels of the coach, she closed her eyes smiling softly when she heard the path underneath change to the gravel that a town would have nearby. This meant that she would get to eat and move around soon, although she would still have to be careful.

Zoei was glad that Ezri still liked his gift, it made him want to get her more nice things, but unsure on what else she'd like. He started walking downstairs with her and out the door staying by her side. "You think the Order will be okay with Radar leaving the kingdom, especially in his condition?" It made his curious he wasn't sure if the priest was fully okay or not and he especially wanted him to be alright for Ezri's sake. Walking up to one of the shops, he looked at some of the cooking utensils and pots. "What do you think would be best on a long trip like this?"

Lavi walked right in checking what they had in stock before looking over at Santha. "So what instrument did you play?" It made him curious. He knew she could, cook, sing, dance and now play an a instrument. It really sparked his interest.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

As soon as they made it close enough to the town Demyan stopped the coach and helped Mele out of it to stretch her legs. He diminished the coach and took the horse by the reigns, pulling it over and pulling Mele on it's back before leading them inside town with another one of his illusions on them to fool the people.

"I'm sure they'll raise a fuss about it, but Radar has a way of explaining things to get what he wants, especially when its something really important to him," Ezri looked over several different kinds of pots and pans, before settling on a few that would stack together, and came with tight fitting lids. "I like these, the wood makes it less likely to burn your hand cooking with them, and they wont break easily," she did some similar fussing over the utensils, and picked out a set of pot holders to go with them, having it packaged up she had it immediately delivered to the inn, so they could take the box with them when they left without having to lug it around all day. She grinned sheepishly at Zoei, "Don't want to be nursing any un-necessary burns, right? So wanna keep looking, I think there's a game shop over there that will have cards, and the like."

"I had to take formal lessons on the violin, lute, Oud, which is just a lute that's just shaped a little differently, really once you know how to use the type of string instrument the others like it aren't too hard to play, you just have to get used to their quirks, " Santha pointed out the different instruments on the walls, "I also had lots of piano lessons, but I don't like that one very much, you can't move around while your playing it." Santha paused thinking a bit, "The lute is the easiest to learn, maybe I can teach you one day, if your interested," she was looking over some of the instruments, frowning lightly when she saw exactly how much some of them cost.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mele took her time with stretching out as Demyan messed with the horse and coach, she gasped softly and stiffened once on the horses back, while she liked the animals and they seemed to like her, she had never ridden on one before and to her it was a bit scary.