VR III: DiE: here we go again...

[*Kain*]

OOC:
Thread 1
1st OOC/signup thread
Active OOC

so far, Scythe has made his presence as well as the vampire threat's presence known to all. Two of the three princesses bit the big one. Mordraken had a sudden change of heart Valgoth the skin-shifter was found out. The characters are starting to grasp the threat in full. If you want more goto the link


IC:


She straightened her back and pulled away slightly. Perhaps we both should rest now. If tomorrow is anything like today, then sleep is needed. Noah just came to the realization that he enjoyed that moment of silence. Being so close to her awoke something inside of him. He almost wished that moment had last forever. But he also knew that what she said rang true. They were both tired, and the fatigue was just catching up with Noah.

Then she pointed out the footsteps approaching the door. Noah heard it to, the pattering of footsteps hard on the stone floor of the hallway. He put himself between Nell and the door. He drew his blade. With all that has been happening tonight, I don't want to take any chances. He waited there, ready for whatever was to come through the door. It was then that Talion burst in, with a crazy look on his face. Noah sheathed his blade immediately and was nearly bowled over by Talione. Talione? What happened? Noah was puzzled, what would make Talione freak out like he was?

[Talione]

Talione burst through Nell's door, eyes blazing with pain. He didn't notice Noah until he nearly impaled himself on the prince's readied sword. For a moment he was tempted to do just that. Death will not release you. There is no release for you! Still nearly blinded by pain, it took him a moment before he noticed how close Noah was standing to Nell. There is no escape for you here. Look at her! How she would laugh at the thought of caring for you! You are a monster! Gritting his teeth, Talione looked at Nell, trying not to stare. Excuse me, milady. Milord. I did not mean to disturb you. His voice was rough with the pain he unsuccessfully tried to hide. Mocking laughter boomed through his mind.

You weren't disturbing them...yet. Damn you! ...And damn me too. He whispered, turning to leave.

You already are, brother. You already are!

[Nell]

As Talione came crashing through the door, Noah only managed to get out of his way, nearly knocking Nell, who stood behind him, over in turn. Steadying herself by putting her hands on Noah's shoulders, she saw the situation clearly, as only a woman can.

Despite the fury and pain on Talione's face, she saw the way it changed when he looked at her. As his face stiffened, so the wall of separation flew into place as he fought to close himself off. His voice, cracked with pain as he excused himself and turned to leave.

Talione ... Tal.. wait. She rushed passed Noah to reach Talione before he could exit the room. At first he tried to move around her but she placed a hand firmly on his chest.Please. Stop, Tal. She looked up into his face with a searching look, trying to read the expression in his eyes. Moving her hands to rest on his upper arms, her own eyes settled into a look that conveyed her concern.

Come, sit down. Something has disturbed you. You are not yourself. Tell me ... tell us what has happened. Don't shut us out. We need to be open if we are going to be strong.

Her voice pleaded with the tall man. There was something she needed to tell him too, something that he needed to know about the future.

[Talione]

Talione ... Tal.. wait. Tal. He hadn't been called that since he was cast out from the village. Looking down at the concern in Nell's eyes helped dampen the pain. He allowed her to sit him in a chair, too busy fighting the crushing void that was trying to control his mind NO! You will not shut me away! Suddenly the assault on his mind redoubled. Talione groaned and grabbed his head, arm muscles straining from the pressure. Green... vial... in my ... belt pouch... Hoping Nell would understand, Talione concetrated, focusing. Please gods, let her understand!

[*Kain*]

Noah wasn't sure what to make of the situation, he almost killed Talione. Managing to get his weapon away in the nick of time, and then running into Nell. Green... vial... in my ... belt pouch... Noah rushed over and spotted it immediately, his only concern was the well being of Talione. Nell this, he pulled the vial from Talione's belt and handed it to Nell, for he didn't know what to do with it. Noah was lost, was it poison? Was Talione seeking death? For he seemed to be struggling with some inner demons. Talione was apazzing out, Noah held him down just in case..

[Nell]

Kneeling infront of the stricken Talione, Nell grabbed the vial that Noah handed to her. She had no idea what was in the vial, whether it would do harm or help, whether it should be taken neat or diluted, but she pulled the stopper and cradling Tal's face with her left hand, held the vial to his lips. He was struggling at first despite Noah holding him down. Tal ... drink it, Tal, its the green vial ... Her voice was soothing, calm, as one might persuade a child. To her relief, he accepted the vial and began to drink. Yes.. that's right. Good... She gently stroked his cheek, her face crossed by worry as she searched to see if any comfort was brought by the strange medicine.

[Talione]

Talione was so far gone into agony he didn't hear Noah or Nell speak. All he knew was that he was being held down, and someone was stroking his cheek. Then he felt something against his lips. At first he tried to fight whatever was being stuffed into his mouth, but soon enough the pain forced a gasp from him. He felt the cool liquid slide into his mouth. It felt like liquid lightning as it passed his throat. Where the potion passed, the pain went away, and Talione could hear the voice of his dead brother snarling in rage. I have beaten you again, brother. You will not turn me into the moster you would have become!

We shall see. How long can you fight keep fighting yourself? YOU swore the oath, but I will reap the rewards! Sleep well this night, my pale brother, for the battle is never done.

Talione opened his eyes to the sight of Nell's lovely face looking down at him. He thought he had never seen so beautiful a sight. ...beautiful... He mumbled, managing a small smile. Then the peaceful darkness of dreamless sleep claimed him.

[Mordraken]

Magnus looked at the small spirit from all sides. It seemed to float contently, occasionally swaying from side to side, bouncing up and down. What a curious thing you are. Where are you from? The light didn't answer, it just bobbed up and down. Do you know who I am? It flared up a moment. He reached out and lightly touched it with his finger. It was warm to the touch, as if he was stroking his finger through a candle flame. Then, he suddenly became aware of some words in the back of his mind. He could barely make them out at first, but he could read them, even though the script it was written in was quite dissimilar from his own. It said, "Magnus Silverfalcon." What is your name? He touched it again, and the words of his own name melted away, allowing for him to see a new set of words. "Spirit." I know you are a spirit, but do you have any other name? "Spirit." I see. Spirit, where are Talione, Noah, and Nell? "Castle." Where in the castle? "Room. Up. On Floor." On floor? Who's on floor, Spirit? "Talione." Now, Magnus was becoming more panicked. Why is he on the floor?! "Sick. Green. Belt. Help. Sad. Fear. Anger." I must help him! He tried to pull away from the sprite, but he felt motionless. His muscles wouldn't respond. He attempted to calm himself. Why can't I help him, Spirit? "Not Place. Must Learn." How is he doing now?

[*Kain*]

Noah looked at the tall man sitting in the small chair. He was almost to big for it, Noah looked to the bed, then back at Talione. Then he turned his gaze to Nell, do you mind if we set him in ur bed, don't worry, I will arrange for another room. Noah then got ready to move the overgrown man to the bed, then looked to Nell for help. C'mon now I'm no superhero m'lady. He smiled.

[Nell]

She grinned back at Noah, the tension of the previous moments released by the absurdity of having to carry Talione over to the bed. It was a struggle, and they nearly dropped the large man as they lugged him clumsily over. Once placed, Nell tried to make him as comfortable as possible, fussing with the pillow and moving his limbs so that they were slightly bent and relaxed.

I think .. I think I will stay and keep an eye on him. There is just enough room for me. I would feel better. And there was space enough for a small person who didn't mind curling up on a corner of the mattress. She didn't want Talione waking up alone and wondering what the hell had happened. She felt strangely protective of the vampire hunter, who, it had become apparent, had weaknesses previously unsuspected.

[*Kain*]

Noah felt akward moving the big man. They finally got him on there though, then he laughed to himself watching Nell fidget with the pillow. I think .. I think I will stay and keep an eye on him. There is just enough room for me. I would feel better. Noah looked from Talione to her. If that is what you want, however if you need to go somewhere else, my sister's old room is down the hall and up the tower, at the top. Feel free to use it anytime. Now I suppose I should go to sleep myself, if I'm to be of any use tomorrow. Good night lady Nell, sleep well. He turned his head down to Talione. You to friend, I hope you found peace within yourself, I owe you one. Noah turned and left without waiting for a reply. He had worn a mask in there, his hope, and any hapiness was all a front. The reality of what happened in the past two nights was tearing him apart. It seemed he was becoming alone in this world, the only sister left to him was Ariana. He would not fail her as he did Iris, and Rachel.

He turned around, instead of going to his room he headed for Ariana's, climbing the stairs he barely made his way to the chair outside the door before his legs gave out. He was drained emotionally, physically, and mentally. He pulled himself into the chair in an upright position. It was here when he was alone that he let what he was holding back in there go. The tears flowed freely, temporarily releasing him from his pain. With this temporary release he drifted to sleep.

Noah awoke within his dream, it seemed the dreamworld would not grant him solace either. He was in the library, walking as a ghost through the room. He passed without trace, no sound, none of the dust particles in the air even moved as he passed through them. People dead all around, Magnus, Talione, Ariana...Nell...and himself. The sword of light lied there on the ground shattered. He walked into the hallways. Vampire dust was everywhere, it seemed there were so many. He made his way to the royal court. Inside there was his mother, sitting on her thrown, Scythe to her side. Her skin was pale, blood stained her neck, a hint of fangs protruded from her upper lip. Scythe was grinning. In the end all will die young prince. Join me or suffer.

With that Noah awoke and saw a black shadow dash out the window. He immediately felt his neck, no wound. He then tried to make sense of his dream, but it was all faded, he couldn't recall what it was, and a shiver went up his spine. He tried to stand but found he was unable to move, his legs were to weak. He lay back in the chair again, he must sleep if he was to do anything tomorrow. He forced himself. Throughout the night he kept waking. The nightmares wouldn't stop.

[Nell]

Once Noah had left the room, Nell looked at the situation more clearly. There was only a small space left on the bed and she realised that little rest would be gained from being curled in that corner. Smiling at her foolishness, she scratched her head for a moment, then picked up her bow and staff and quietly closing the door behind her, went to find the princess's room.

It was easy to find and once she had climbed the tower, she pushed the door open to reveal a sumptuous room befitting royalty. Pushing to the back of her mind that this was the chamber of a dead woman, she lay her weapons on a large table which seemed to act as a desk for correspondence and work. There were some books laid there, large and leather bound, with strange words scratched on the parchment that she could not decipher. Only two candles were lit, one on that desk and one next to the bed that dominated the center of the room. Picking up the candle on the desk, Nell made a brief tour of the room, noting the flowers that were wiliting in a crystal vase, the several closets that held the princess's garments and in a small ante-room, a capacious bathtub that appeared to be gilded with gold.

The room was slightly chilly as there was no fire burning in the hearth, so Nell did not waste too much time preparing for bed. Stripping down to her light smock, she slipped between the silk sheets and after a few moments fell asleep against the pillow stuffed with gossamer feathers.

[Nell]

It was a grey dawn that filtered through the fine curtains, which swathed the tall windows. Nell woke slowly, slightly groggy from a heavy sleep and took a few moments to recall where she had spent the night. Sitting up, she touched the silk sheets that covered her, before pushing back her tousled long hair. Despite the odds being stacked against the possibility, she had slept well and felt refreshed. And hungry.

She threw back the covers and padding lightly across the cold marble floor, found a warm dressing gown that lay across a chair. The princess's? Most likely. Slipping it on she opened the door and hurried down the stairs. No one was about as the young woman made her way to the kitchens, which she was thankful for. As she entered the large kitchens, she saw one lonely lad who was in the process of cleaning out the ovens ready for the new day. Nell raised a finger to her lips and smiled at him. He stared at her as she helped herself to a platter of fresh fruit before leaving, the kitchen door swinging behind her.

Hurrying back up to her room, Nell stopped en route to look in on Talione. The large man lay on his back, sprawled across the bed, the sheets beneath him in considerable disarray. Nell smiled and left a gift of fruit on the table. Back in the princess's room, she sat on the bed and began to make her way through the peaches and slices of melon. Simple fruit had never tasted so good!

Once she had satisfied her immediate hunger, Nell began to think about the situation before her, practically. She needed a change of clothes more suitable if she was to begin training. The skirts would have to go. Not being too hopeful, she opened the closets of clothes and began to search. It wasn't until she reached the third closet that she had any luck. Behind the many ornate and beautiful dresses, a pair of trousers made of fine moleskin, a delicate shade of deep rose. Coupled with a soft grey shirt, feminine but practical, and her boots, it made a fine outfit. To finish the ensemble, a black leather bodice, that wrapped around Nell's slender frame to hug her figure but give a little more protection than the grey silk blouse.

She quickly dressed after a quick scrub to freshen up, not feeling able to ask servants to fill the bath with hot water. None were around and Nell didn't feel as if she had the authority to make such a request anyway. Then she headed down to Talione's room to see if he had woken yet.

[Talione]

Talione awoke from a dead sleep. One moment he was unconscious, the next he was awake and on his feet, glaring about the room to find what had awakened him. He almost immediately fell back to the bed when the room began to swim around him. Staring up at the ceiling didn't help the dizziness, so he turned his head to the side. Sitting on the beside table was a peach. Odd place to be putting fruit. His thoughts had a strange echo, as if he had been shouting into a vast cavern. At the same time it felt as though his head had been stuffed with oil soaked cotton. He knew that it wouldn't take much to ignite into a raging headache. From the light starting to filter into the room, it wouldn't be long before the sun was fully shining, its brilliant light ready to send fiery shafts of pain through his eyes.

Groping about in his belt pouch for his glasses, Talione noticed that the vial the old woman had given him yesterday was missing. What the hell happened last night? Cudgeling his fog filled memory only brought back a vague sense of pain, and more disturbing, his brother's mocking laughter. Sitting up carefully, Talione remembered one more thing. Nell's face looking down at him in concern, and his own voice saying how beautiful she was. Groaning in dismay, Talione wondered just how much of an ass he had made himself last night.

He stood once more, muscles protesting. Leather armor provided good protection in the woods, but it didn't make a very good nightshirt. Stripping to the waste, Talione began stretching to ease the aches. Scars striped his torso, crowned by the four long scars that ran from his right shoulder to his left hip, the physical reminders of his blood vow. He continued to exercise till his bone-white chest was covered by a light sheen of sweat. A rumble from his stomach reminded him that he hadn't eaten, and he quickly turned to the bedside table. Silently thanking whoever had brought him the peach, he took a bite, wiping the juice from his chin with his forearm.

A soft knock on the door suprised him. Most likely some servant wanting to clean the room. This castle seems to be infested with servants. Come in, I'm awake.

[Nell]

Nell heard the invitation to enter and swung the door open, stepping in with a bright smile on her face. Good morning! And how are you today ... The question that tripped off her lips ended in a stutter as she saw Talione standing there half naked and lightly covered in exercised induced sweat. Blushing furiously, she swallowed and continued, trying to recover her composure. Ah, I see you are ... up and .. um.. in good health ...

It was hard to keep her eyes focussed on his face. The scars on his body drew her eyes and she tried not to think about how he came to have them. They were ugly and deep and no doubt reminders of past horrors. Eventually she dropped her eyes in slight embarrassment. She wished she could make her entrance again. She wished she had called out her name to warn him that she was entering the room. She wished that she could be the kind of woman to whom such things as half naked men had little effect. Alas, she was not. Fiddling with her sleeve, she mumbled. Um, I was hoping, if you don't mind, if we could ... if you would show me .. if this was a good time to begin some training? Forcing herself to look up, she managed a weak smile.

[Talione]

Talione heard the door open behind him, turned to greet the expected servant, and instead found Nell standing in the door. He saw Nell staring at his chest and flush. She must be disgusted by the sight. When she dropped her gaze, Talione force a cheerful tone to his voice. Training? Certainly, milady. If you will give me a few minutes to wash and dress first. And of course find my weapons. They seem to have lost me last night. He said, smiling a smile that didn't reach his sorrow filled eyes. Moving to the dresser, he quickly poured some cold water into a bowl and hurriedly washed some of the sweat from his neck and chest. Pulling on his shirt, stuffing his armor beneath his arm, Talione turned back to Nell.
Now to find our respective weapons. It was then that he finally noticed that he was in Nell's room! Confused and embarrassed, he looked away from the young woman. I appologize if I did anything to offend you last night. I... can't really remember much... but... His words trailed off into silence. Just what did happen last night?

[Mordraken]

I see. Magnus flipped through the tome, and found the command word to dismiss the spirit. He bid the small point of light farewell as it flickered out of visibility. He sat down. It was unusual how he felt, the kind of tingling still present in his body. It wasn't drain, but not invigoration either. He could barely describe it to himself, and he was feeling it at the time. One other thing filled his body: the desire to find more! He took the book again, and flipped through it some more. Throughout the entire night, he stayed in the library, testing the different spells and breathing and meditation. It took more that five or six tries for some of the spells, others more than a dozen. He kept trying, presistently testing them, asking many questions to any spirits he met through the process. None were as easy as the light spirit, nor as responsive, but anything was better than nothing. He loved it! And he wanted more. He kept looking, and by breakfast he had looked through at least twenty-five books, each with varying amounts of useful information. By then, he was beginning to tire. He also thought it wise to make some effort of an appearence for breakfast, despite the fact he didn't want anything but more magickal skill. He headed down to the kitchen, and found a basket of perfectly ripe fruit. He picked an apple with a shiny, ruby hue, and chomped on it. It was suprisingly satisfying. Magnus left back for the castle library, and then remembered: Ed. Oh, no. He rushed up the stairs to the entrance. Suddenly, he didn't feel so bad about forgetting about Ed; he apparently did too. A small wind sarcastically blew across the road, shifting the dust off the road. Magnus wandered out into town. It seemed very quiet; not many people were out on the road, and neither were any of the usual stands for fresh food or goods. He became slightly suspicious, but while he was out and about, he figured he might as well make one stop he had been meaning to make since last night. He entered the town clothier's shop. A small bell dingled above him.
The owner turned around and greeted Magnus. She was a kindly old woman, slim and a little shorter than he, with silvery brown hair in a tight bun and small round glasses. Good morning! What can I do for you?
I'm looking to get a new outfit. I imagine you know how to make a gi?
Yes.
I'd like a white cotton gi, please, and a white hooded cape with a silver interior.
All right, just step up on this platform, and I'll take your measurements. She took a line of cord from a small pouch on her sash, and pulled out a length of it. She wrapped it first around his waist, then along his leg, then his shoulders, then his arms. Okay, Mr. Dreadweaver, you can step down now.
So you recognize me?
Of course. You are a Vampire hunter, no?
Well, yes. I am studying other things now, though.
Thank you for showing up when you did.
Pardon?
I don't like to say this, but since you came, all the Vampires have left us alone. You can pay when I have your outfit done. Come back at noon.
Have you been having...
She interruped him. Just...please... Magnus was taken aback, but he left without another word. He reentered the castle, and made his way to the library.

[Nell]

Nell busied herself with looking out of the window as Talione made himself ready. The day was deceptively peaceful, showing no mark from the turmoil of the previous night. The view from the window stretched across the castle battlements to the woods, facing away from the streets of the city. As Talione referred to the weapons, Nell turned back and saw his confusion as he realised he had spent the night in her allocated room.

You don't remember anything from last night? Goodness ... it was quite a time. She paused not knowing where to start. Well you were in a bad way. Although why we never found out, as I gave you the potion that was in the green vial to drink. A sedative I assume as you went out like a light. Do you remember the skin shifter? The news about Magnus? You ended up sleeping here as Noah and I, well between us we couldn't carry you too far. She walked up to Talione and looked into his face searchingly, to see if there was any memory at all.

As for offending me? No, you did not offend me. I ended up sleeping in the princess's room. I was going to stay here with you, to make sure you were all right during the night, but Nell grinned broadly .. You're a big fellow you know, you left me no room. She continued to smile but paused before the next line, not sure if Talione could take teasing. And Tal ... you find me beautiful, eh? Now what woman would be offended at receiving such a compliment?

[Talione]

And Tal ... you find me beautiful, eh? Now what woman would be offended at receiving such a compliment? Talione blushed. I said that out loud, huh? She was going to stay here! Talione was desperate to change the subject. I remember the shifter, and Magnus. Everything else is blurry. Wait, you said you gave me what was in the green vial? All of it? No wonder I feel so off. That stuff is usually only taken a few drops at a time in water. I'm suprised I'm even awake yet. So, um, what did happen? He was afraid he already knew, and again he thought he heard cruel laughter. He didn't really know what the potion was, only that it could silence the malicious voice for a time. But he had run out of it days ago, and hadn't had any time to take any of the potion he had gotten from the strange old woman. I must have lost control. Did I hurt anyone? He ask, praying that he did not, fearing that he had. It wouldn't have been the first time....

Feeling the need to move...I am not running away!...he turned to the door. Never mind. Let me get my weapons, then we can go out to the courtyard. What kind of training do you want? And for that matter, what have you had? Holding the door for her, Talione slipped on his glasses, blocking out the cruel light of day, wishing it was that easy to block out his unease.

[Nell]

She walked through the doorway, chatting as she went. No you didn't hurt anyone, not that I know of anyway. Hold on I just need to get my bow.

She quickly ran up to the room at the top of the tower to retrieve her longbow and staff, then rejoined Talione. She let him lead the way to the courtyard, stopping to find his weapons on the way. My training? Well, it's been fairly informal. I have been taught to use the longbow but for sport. No expert, but I was good enough to hold my own against my father eventually. He also showed me how to fight with the staff but for self-defence. I can ride a horse well, that I have always found a pleasure.

She spoke in a business like manner so as not to tease Talione any further, but every now and then she cast furtive glances his way to see if he was looking at her. Although she had only known him for less than a day, she felt at ease in his company. Perhaps it is the way things go, when there is danger and crisis, that people fall into friendly terms quicker than usual. Mentally shrugging, she continued I suppose the best thing to do now is to show you what I can do? I do wonder at how much use I will be though. I am sure that when there is an army gathered, I will be better out of the way.

[Talione]

Talione watched Nell ou to the corner of his eye, marking how she moved, judging her. She moved well, her stride graceful, a good sign. A staff isn't that much different than a spear, which happens to be a weapon I know something about. He said, hefting his 7 foot long boar spear. If you are any good with a staff, then that will be a good base for your training. I personally prefer my bow, but sometimes you can't help but get into a melee. Now that he was back on fimiliar ground, Talione found Nell's company soothing. He led her out into the castle's small training yard. A line of archery targets ran the length of the far wall. Separating the range from the sparring circles were wooden frames holding training pads and weapons.

Setting his bow and spear aside, Talione selected a padded length of wood meant to practice spear work with. Stepping away from the wrack, he motioned Nell to pick one. While she made her selection, he found a padded jerikin he thought would fit her. Now, as you suggested. Show me what you know, and we will go from there. He said as he threw her the armor. Leaning on the his "spear", he set himself to watch Nell.

[Nell]

Nell slowly put the padded jerkin on, fastening the buckles carefully. Then she took the 'spear' she had chosen and weighed it in her hand, finding its balance. It felt right so she stepped over to the nearest sparring circle and took a ready stance, holding the piece of wood as she had been taught.

It would be easier to show you what I can do if you were to attack. Like I said before, I was only shown how to defend myself, so ... She grinned at him. Be gentle though? I haven't had to do this for a while. That was true enough, for the last time had been a summer ago when her father had taught her these moves. She pushed the memory away though. It was better to concentrate on the present than the past.

[Talione]

(OCC I had Nell's approval and active support for this post )

Smiling slightly, Talione entered the circle. Then with a lighting flick of his "spear's" haft, sent Nell's weapon flying. First lesson, if someone is holding a weapon, be they friend or foe, always be ready for an attack. He waited for Nell to pick up her weapon, wanting to see how she would react to his dirty trick. The young woman bent to retrieve her spear, then stood, fist on hip. A knowing smile flits across her lips. Again? Talione nods, smiling broadly. Here is a little tip. Forget any of the nonsense you might have heard about predicting someone's attacks by watching their eyes. A trained fighter can attack without ever changing his gaze. It is much better to watch the joints. If someone is going to attack, it will start in the shoulder, elbows, and wrists. Now I will show you that dirty little move that just disarmed you. Moving slowly, Talione demonstrated the quick flick of the wrists that sent his spear spinning through the air. Nell watched him, and Talione could nearly feel the her concentrating. When he was finished, she tried the trick, managing a good approximation. That knowing smile never left her face, and for some reason it made Talione a bit nervous. It doesn't always work, so be careful with it. That is the problem with using tricks, most have been around so long that most decent fighters know them.

Talione attacked again, this time a simple thrust with the padded end of the spear, aimed at Nell's right knee. Nell easily knocked the thrust aside, forcing Talione's weapon out and away from her legs. Expecting some kind of counter, Talione quickly set himself to defend, and was baffled when Nell mearly stepped back. Nell stood staring at Tal, waiting for his next move. Um, when you parry, it is usally the best time to attack. Your opponents weapon is out of the way, leaving him open.

Oh, oops. So saying, the young woman thrust with her spear, catching Talione off guard. The spear was headed straigh for his groin! Dodging desperatly to the side, Talione managed to avoid a crippling blow, but Nell's spear still caught him on the inner thigh. Yelping in sudden pain, the woodsman looked down at Nell. Alright, I deserved that, for not paying attention. But in the future, please try not to aim below the belt, but above the thighs? At least while we spar? Sorry... My father taught me to always go for the most... um... vulnerable spots. She looked somewhat sheepish, though that smile still hid around the edge of her lips, and her eyes glinted with mischief. Talione coughed into his hand to hide a laugh he couldn't contain. Yes, well. In battle that is a great spot to aim for. No man I know would fail to try to defend it... But this isn't battle, okay? Let's start again shall we? Yes? She replied, her voice small and meek.

Talione quickly ran through the basic attacks at half speed, most of which Nell easily defended. Your holding back aren't you? Stop it. Let's see what you've really got! She challenged with a devilish grin.If that is what you really want. Talione replied, his tone resigned. Then he was attacking, releasing a wild flurry of attacks, using both "blade" and haft of his spear to quickly disarm Nell. His momentum unabated, Talione continued to drive the girl back, finally hooking his weapon behind her knee, dropping her to the dirt. The "point" of his spear was at her throat before she could move. Talione stepped back, allowing Nell time to stand, but when the young woman tried, she groaned in pain and fell back to the ground, a hand pressed to her back. Afraid that he had hurt her with his childish display, Talione quickly bent down to help her. He only caught the smug smile at the last moment, and by then it was too late. Nell's slender leg swept out, catching Talione's ankles. The big man had only enough time to grunt at the impact before he found himself lying in the dirt, looking up at a smiling Nell.

[Nell]

It was an interesting way to spend time, certainly. The sun was rising slowly in the sky as Nell's training commenced, dispelling the morning chill. With the first flick of his wrist, Talione spirited away Nell's 'spear' before she could see it happening. A trifle unfair she thought to herself as she bent to retrieve the weapon. But she reined in her annoyance and turned towards Talione, for more. The advice he gave, she had to admit, was good and after practising the trick, she prepared her stance again.

This time she found it easy to deflect a thrust towards her leg. Quickly stepping back, expecting a further attack, she was surprised when none came. She flushed slightly as Talione explained that she should have attacked instead, but nodded her head and... uncertain of how to attack, remembered the words of her father about 'getting them where it hurts' thrust the end of the 'spear' directly at Talione's groin. In the back of her head she knew it wasn't the most honorable attack and listened meekly to Talione's gentle reproach. She shook herself and tried to focus again, this time more seriously. She had asked for training and wanted to do well, wanted to show Talione that she could learn. For some reason it was important to the young woman to have his approval.

He then showed her a series of thrusts and how to defend them, going slowly and patiently. Nell managed to grasp these basics quickly and feeling confident challenged her trainer to pick up the pace. What happened next knocked the wind out of her sails as she tried to defend the blur of blows that came at her. Before she knew it, she was on her back in the dirt, the end of Talione's 'spear' at her throat. A wave of humiliation came over her. Stupid girl, what were you hoping to prove? She stared up at Talione as he stepped back, her mouth slightly sullen. A spark of an idea lit in her mind.

As she sat up and tried to stand, she winced and groaned, her hand shooting to her back as she stumbled down again. He fell for it, completely. As Talione bent down to help her up, she grinned in glee before sweeping him off his feet. He landed heavily beside her in the dirt, a long way for a tall man to fall. She sat up straight and looked down at him.

Now what were you saying about always being ready for an attack? However her triumph was short lived. Quickly she berated herself for her actions. This man was too kind to trifle with. Dirty trick, I know. I'm sorry ... She reached down and wiped away some dirt that had landed on his cheek, before standing and offering him both her hands. Forgive me?

She resolved to never do anything like that again. She was beginning to learn that this strong, tall hunter had a fragile soul and that she needed to be careful not to bruise him in his heart.

[Talione]

Talione grinned up at Nell. Forgive you? Of course! Its good to be reminded that I'm probably not as good as I think I am. Taking both her offered hands in his, he suddenly pulled backward, planting a foot in her stomache, flipping her over him. He quickly rolled after her, straddling her, and pinning her arms over her head. Grinning an evil grin, he put his face only inches from hers. But then, neither are you! Never think someone is too nice of too gentle to play a dirty trick. That sort of thinking can get you killed. The kindest person can still be a demon in a fight.