RP channel logs: Hafwen, Slesthas

[RP]: (Hafwen): It is foggy. The mist clings to the river like a mourner's veil, the humidity unbearable.
[RP]: Hafwen hears a quiet splash and looks over the side of the boat. She shudders. Leeches.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The docks of Sthiss Tor loom ahead, and Hafwen glares at the city. She hates Nyissa with a passion.
[RP]: Hafwen turns as the captain comes up behind her. I'll wait, but I ain't stayin long. he says, eyeing her. She nods, and gives him a coin pouch.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'Don't bother waiting. I'll find my own way back.'
[RP]: (Hafwen): The captain nods, then turns and barks orders as the ship slides closer to the docks. Hafwen climbs onto the rail, then steps off, grinning at the captain's horrified shriek.
[RP]: Hafwen lands on the dock, and looks back up. The captain hangs over the rail shouting obscenities at her. She winks, then heads for the city and, she hopes, something to rid herself of the annoyance of her thoughts.
[RP]: Slesthas giggles to himself as he strokes the adder's head with his thumb. 'No scary man no more. You safe safe,' he sings tunelessly to the adder.
[RP]: Slesthas picks a particularly plumb rat from the tank. Its claws scrabble futilely at his leather gloves, writhing.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The adder lifts its head to regard the tempting meal.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The streets teem with people, strange considering the humidity. She wipes the sweat off her brow and heads in the general direction of the town square.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Raising an eyebrow, Slesthas admonishes the adder. 'Adder must exercise! Me put rat in here, and you chase chase for food. Exercise good. Make healthy snake.'
[RP]: Slesthas carefully lowers the rat into the strange tank filled with ferns and stones.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The rat stands there, shivering. Slesthas taps his foot impatiently.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Then, tutting annoyedly, he waves at it. It bolts, disappearing amidst the 'vegetation'.
[RP]: Hafwen makes a face as she carefully steps over a brood of snakes. Gods, how she hates Nyissa.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Nodding satisfiedly, he lowers the adder into the tank. 'Have much funfun! Me going out. Me hungry too.' The last two sentences are directed at the spiders, frogs, newts, snakes and other creatures in the room.
[RP]: Slesthas pauses, then adds 'No fightfight.'
[RP]: Slesthas giggles, pulling on his cloak and tugging his hood on. 'Bye bye!' he exclaims cheerfully, and slips out of the room.
[RP]: Hafwen pauses briefly and looks around her. She'd only been here once before, and she had been drunk. She mutters something to herself and waits, unsure of where to go next.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He strolls along the corridor, navigating past the dangers of Nyissan architecture almost absentmindedly.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He pats the large python coiled up on the doorstep, and trots towards the market square, waving his arms in the air.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Making up her mind, she heads to the marketplace. There is as good a place as any to find what she needs.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Unable to resist, he twirls around, one hand keeping his hood on. The guards do not seem perturbed, but then again, this behaviour was not unusual among druggies.
[RP]: Hafwen pauses again.
[RP]: (Slesthas): '1432, 436, 583,' he mumbles to himself, composing his shopping list in his head. He laughs delightedly at the giddiness.
[RP]: Slesthas executes another spin, and crashes into someone.
[RP]: Slesthas teeters, then falls on top of that someone.
[RP]: Hafwen hits the ground and swears. Pushing at the heavy body, she yanks her dagger out of its sheath and rolls to her feet.
[RP]: Slesthas yelps at the sight of the dagger, and crouches, covering his head. He babbles too quickly to be comprehended.
[RP]: Hafwen blinks. Sighing, she puts the dagger away. She looks closer at the .. man who'd crashed into her.
[RP]: Slesthas cringes away from the looming figure.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'Er... are you ok?'
[RP]: (Slesthas): One phrase seems to be repeated over and over again. 'Scary Nadrakie lady!'
[RP]: Hafwen raises an eyebrow and nudges the man with her toe. Get up. She mutter something about slimey Nyissans under her breath.
[RP]: (Slesthas): His words trail off. He peers up cautiously.
[RP]: (Slesthas): His eyes widen.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Tolnedrian!'
[RP]: (Slesthas): He frowns puzzledly, wondering why the light was so bright.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Eep!' He quickly yanks his hood back on.
[RP]: Hafwen peers intently at the man. Ah yes. He could help. She nudges him again. I said, get up.
[RP]: Slesthas backs against the wall, and slowly rises.
[RP]: Slesthas says slowly 'Me not understanding... why you so many scars? Fighting much?'
[RP]: Hafwen looks at the man carefully. Self-inflicted. she replies shortly. She looks him over, then nods.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'I'll keep this simple.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): His brows furrow.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'I want drugs, and you're going to help me get some.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'What sort of drug? Sleeping, hallucinating, poison, healing, dreaming...? What's inflicted? A kind of plant? Animal? A person?'
[RP]: Hafwen raises an eyebrow. I don't much care, as long as it numbs me from the brain down. She pauses, thinking. and it means I did it to myself. She draws her dagger again and pulls the blade across her wrist, opening yet another wound.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'Like that.'
[RP]: Slesthas winces at the sight of blood. 'Lady bad! Cutting self bad!' He blinked. 'That called "self-inflicted"? Mmm what sort drug should give? Dreaming, me thinking. Dreaming.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Red toad extract? Sianesin snake venom? Number 205 mix?' he mumbles to himself.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Her eyes narrow, and she nods. You're the expert. She pulls a pouch from her side and jingles it in front of the man. In liquid form. And I'm willing to pay for the best.
[RP]: Slesthas waves at the woman distractedly, trying to think.
[RP]: Slesthas rummages in his pouch and pulls out a vial. He dabs his fingers, and beckons at the woman. 'Give wrist?'
[RP]: Hafwen eyes the man, then extends her arm cautiously.

[RP]: Hafwen peers at the man intently, then extends her arm, her other hand going for her dagger.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Humming to himself, Slesthas cautiously dabs the liquid onto her arm. Then, he offers the bottle. 'Must clean wounds in Nyissa. Many, many bad fumes in air. Make wound infect.'
[RP]: Slesthas thinks about it. 'No drinking. Bad, bad for tummy.' He pats his stomach.
[RP]: Hafwen nods, her eyes narrowed. She looks at the bottle, then slips it into her satchel. How much?
[RP]: (Slesthas): He shakes his head.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'C'mon, how much?'
[RP]: (Slesthas): Rummaging in his pouch, he mumbles another string of numbers and strange names.
[RP]: Hafwen watches the man carefully, but doesn't repeat herself. If he is too doped up to charge her for it, that's not her problem.
[RP]: (Slesthas): After a moment, he exclaims 'Here!' He thrusts it out at the Tolnedran.
[RP]: Hafwen pauses apprehensively, then takes the bottle from the man. She looks at it carefully before speaking. What is it? And how much?
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'What you wanting... Dreaming sleeping drug.' He gives a one-shouldered shrug. 'Me wanting no money... just no hurting self with nasty knifie, ok?'
[RP]: Hafwen looks up startled. Her dagger still drawn, she thinks for a moment. It better be, little man. If it's something else, I'll hunt you down and carve out your liver. She says this almost cheerfully, but her eyes are hard and cold.
[RP]: Slesthas giggles, oblivious to the woman's cold eyes. 'Liver good to eat. Much fat. Tasting good... except for some snakes...' He becomes thoughtful. 'Me thinking... some newts?'
[RP]: (Hafwen): Newts? The man eats newts? She shrugs. Whatever keeps him happy. Newts sound good, my new friend. She puts an arm around his shoulder, almost buddylike. Her hand still grips her dagger, however. Just in case.
[RP]: Slesthas jerks away from the Tolnedran. 'Don't touch me...'
[RP]: Hafwen nods and pulls away. She could respect that. She looks at the man again, then glances around. She slips the bottle out of her bag, and takes the stopper out.
[RP]: Slesthas calms down, watching the woman curiously. 'What your name?'
[RP]: Hafwen doesn't answer right away. She sniffs at the bottle, then puts it away. Hafwen, she replies absently.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Half.... when...?' he repeats uncertainly, then giggles. 'Me is Slesthas.'
[RP]: Hafwen says 'Slesthas? She shrugs. A pleasure, I guess. She looks around again. Well my friend, what next?'
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Next? What next to us?'
[RP]: Hafwen grins and sheaths her dagger.
[RP]: Hafwen steps back at a sound near her feet. She shudders as a snake slithers by. It's small, as snakes go but it's still a snake.
[RP]: Slesthas blinks, and quickly crouches. He coos at the snake.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake stops, looking at him.
[RP]: Hafwen steps back again.
[RP]: Slesthas giggles. 'Me thinking lady scared. Tell others go away?' he whispers loudly, glancing at the woman, as though worried she would hear.
[RP]: Hafwen raises an eyebrow. Oh great. He talks to snakes, too. Gods how she hated Nyissa.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake tastes the air, flicking a black tongue out. Slesthas shrugs, in the peculiar one-shouldered manner again.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake slithers away.
[RP]: Hafwen watches the snake slither away, then looks at Slesthas. How did you do that?
[RP]: Slesthas straightens and beams brightly at Hafwen. 'Snakes liking me. Me liking snakes.'
[RP]: Slesthas nods to himself. 'Me knowing mucho about snakes. They nice people. Not like Murgooos.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. You're Nyissan, it stands to reason. She looks in the direction the snake had gone. Can they actually understand you?
[RP]: Slesthas giggles. 'Of course, silly lady! Me talking to them all time. Snake saying you smell nice.'
[RP]: Slesthas says worriedly to himself 'Like blood, she saying...'
[RP]: Hafwen lifts her arm and looks at the dried blood on her wrist. I guess I would smell like blood to a snake.
[RP]: Slesthas looks at her, startled. 'You hearing Slesthas speak? All ladies have good ears.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. I have very good hearing.
[RP]: Slesthas cringes away. 'Then Slesthas must be good boy. Not saying bad things about lady.'
[RP]: Hafwen laughs. Don't worry, my friend. You're still useful to me. She grins at him.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'So what we doing? Lady dance with me? Dancing makes funfun.'
[RP]: Hafwen raises an eyebrow again. Dancing is .. fun, I suppose. I thought you didn't like to be touched?
[RP]: (Slesthas): His brows furrow. 'Slesthas saying that?'
[RP]: Hafwen nods sagely.
[RP]: Slesthas blinks. 'Oh.'
[RP]: Hafwen says 'That's ok. I don't know how to dance, anyway.'
[RP]: Slesthas giggles, hugging himself. 'It chilly today. Wanting go for walkie? Or wanting go back home?'
[RP]: Hafwen thinks about it for a minute. She really doesn't want to stay in Nyissa any longer than necessary. But this strange little man intrigues her.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'Let's walk.'
[RP]: Slesthas nods, and walks around in a tight circle.
[RP]: Hafwen laughs. Slesthas.
[RP]: Slesthas stops and looks puzzledly at Hafwen. 'Lady not liking walkie?'
[RP]: Hafwen smiles at him. Why don't you introduce me to some more of your snake friends? Ok, she hates snakes. But she needs this man for future purchases.
[RP]: Slesthas nods happily. 'That good. That good. That good.'
[RP]: Hafwen steps aside. After you, my peculiar little friend.
[RP]: Slesthas twirls a few steps in the direction of his dwelling, and stops, freezing.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Then he gives a squeal and bolts straight down an alley.
[RP]: Hafwen mutters something and runs after him. Come back you, you little freak!
[RP]: Slesthas hears the lady shouting encouragement at him, and waves energetically at her. 'Lady must running faster if wanting to see snakes!'
[RP]: Hafwen growls and runs faster, gaining ground on him with every step.
[RP]: Slesthas sees the lady speeding up, and nods satisfiedly to himself. He did love a good run.
[RP]: (Slesthas): After running through a maze of alleys, he pauses briefly at a building, and wriggles through the hole.
[RP]: Slesthas sings 'Through the snake hole we is sliding, oh what a wonderful day! Me is dancing in the streets...'
[RP]: Hafwen catches up to him just as he scrambles through a hole. She stops and curses. She crouches down and tries to look into the hole.
[RP]: Slesthas gets to his feet, dusting himself off, then he opens the door.
[RP]: Slesthas peers around the wall. 'Haf...when?'
[RP]: Hafwen stands, her dagger coming out of its sheath automatically. Her breathing is a little hard, but not so much that she's out of the game. Little freak, she mutters, then steps around the door to follow Slesthas inside.
[RP]: Slesthas glances over his shoulder. 'Coming to visit,' he explains to the python.
[RP]: Hafwen pauses. Who was he talking to?
[RP]: Slesthas bows awkwardly, almost falling over, and waves wildly at the python. 'Meeting him!'
[RP]: Hafwen steps through the door and freezes. In front of her is the biggest snake she's ever seen. Easily big enough to swallow her whole. She backs up and hits a wall, her eyes wide and her mouth agape.
[RP]: Slesthas frowns at the python. 'Me not understanding. What? Lady scared? Why? She asking she wanting she saying she come.'
[RP]: Slesthas turns around.
[RP]: Slesthas opens his mouth, then closes it.
[RP]: Hafwen swallows hard. That's .. a big snake.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Yeah. Biggest in Sthiss Tor. Not venomous. He likes eating dogs. And cats. Not many left in Sthiss Tor though.'
[RP]: Slesthas pats the python. 'He is saying you smelling nice. Almost good enough to eat.'
[RP]: Hafwen blinks. I'll take that as a compliment. She stays against the wall, however.
[RP]: Slesthas thinks over what he has just said, and adds hastily 'But he not eating people. Unless they thieves.' He frowns.
[RP]: Hafwen laughs nervously. Good thing I'm a spy then, huh?
[RP]: Slesthas waves at the python, which slithers away from the second door. 'Spy? What is spy?'
[RP]: Hafwen watches the python move away, then takes a careful step away from the wall. Uh, a person who gathers information.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Takes a few steps into the house, and glances over his shoulder. 'Many people paying much for information. They paying me some...'
[RP]: Hafwen nods, then looks around. Yes, people pay quite a bit for information.
[RP]: Slesthas skips into the corridor into the only room in the dwelling. He ducks under the sink, and begins to take his pets from their containers.
[RP]: Slesthas works happily in the darkness, dropping the pets into the large tank filled with vegetation.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Curiosity getting the better of her fear, she steps closer to the large tank.
[RP]: (Slesthas): This task is aided by the fact that all the snakes know what to do, and so slither into the tank themselves.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Humming to himself, he tosses some dung into the tank, then tips the container filled with rats into the tank.
[RP]: Hafwen watches for a moment. You have pet rats, too?
[RP]: Slesthas shuts the glass window. 'They food for snakes,' he says matter-of-factly.
[RP]: Slesthas peers into the tank. 'This tank very big. About size of...'
[RP]: Slesthas frowns slightly.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Two or three houses... me is thinking. They guarding themselves. Many poisonous.' He beams proudly at that fact.
[RP]: Hafwen nods absently, and looks into the large tank. That's .. a big tank.
[RP]: Slesthas strolls to the other side of the room, and shuts a chest on a long table of glassware. 'Yeah. Must be if the twenty snakes wanting exercise. Newts and frogs and spiders not needing much.'
[RP]: Hafwen stands watching the tank, catching a glimpse of a snake now and again. Are they all poisonous?
[RP]: Slesthas nods. 'All snakes poisonous. Some plants not.'
[RP]: Hafwen turns from the tank briefly to look at the man on the other side of the room. You ever get bit?
[RP]: Slesthas snaps the chest shut. 'No. Unless I is asking them to. Needing to test if me resistant to their venoms.'
[RP]: Hafwen blinks at that. What happens if you're not resistant?
[RP]: Slesthas flashes Hafwen a grin. 'Me always resistant. Me took his venoms when him young, like a good boy.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods again and turns back to the tank. All Nyissan kids do that? She turns and arches an eyebrow at Slesthas. Or just the really weird ones?
[RP]: Slesthas smiles oddly. 'Oh, the rich ones and some others... To protect ourselves against poisoning.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. Stands to reason, I suppose.
[RP]: Slesthas makes sure his chest is secure, and places it carefully into a sleek, leather bag. This he slings over his shoulder, and he glances around unconcernedly at the glassware.
[RP]: Hafwen turns and tilts her head sideways, studying Slesthas carefully. I'm having a thought. She arches an eyebrow.
[RP]: Slesthas blinks puzzledly at the Tolnedran.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'What say you and I take a little trip?'
[RP]: Slesthas claps his hands together delightedly. 'Yay! Trippy!'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. If she takes him back with her, she doesn't need to travel to Nyissa as often. I bet you could make a fortune if you come with me.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Fortune? Me becoming lucky if me with you go?'
[RP]: Hafwen grins at him. I know lots of people who would by from you. Drugs and information alike. She holds out her hand. Well?
[RP]: Slesthas looks at the hand closely. 'Your hand looking well.' He cocks his head.
[RP]: Hafwen grins again. She beckons with a wave of her hand. Let's procure passage aboard the next ship out of here, shall we?
[RP]: (Slesthas): He stares at the woman, bewildered. 'Procure? Slesthas is confused now.'
[RP]: Slesthas says 'Why ships? Ships yucky... many slaves, many leeches...' he says slowly.
[RP]: Hafwen she giggles. She liked this funny little man. Just come with me, Slesthas. She turns to walk toward the door, then stops.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'I just thought of something.'
[RP]: Slesthas follows Hafwen, scratching his head.
[RP]: Hafwen she looks at the large tank. What about the snakes?
[RP]: Slesthas looks at the tank. 'They catching rats and eating them. Me only keep healthy snakes. Weak snakes cannot catch rats and die.'
[RP]: Slesthas mutters 'Lady using many big big words. Slesthas no understanding.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. I meant, will they be ok on their own if you leave?
[RP]: Slesthas is surprised, and looks offended. 'Of course! Me training my snakes well well. Well. Very well.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. I meant no offence. She can't believe she's talking about snakes. I just was worried about them.
[RP]: Slesthas nods sagely. 'Maybe you liking snakes too someday.'
[RP]: Hafwen looks surprised at that. Maybe. she says thoughtfully, then turns for the door again. Need to find a ship that's leaving. It's a long walk back to Tolnedra.
[RP]: Slesthas nods.
[RP]: Hafwen walks out the door and waits for Slesthas to follow.
[RP]: Slesthas follows Hafwen, nodding his head all the while.
[RP]: Hafwen looks over her shoulder, then ambles in the direction of the docks. She reaches into her satchel and hides her bottles in a secret compartment sewn into the lining, then toys with the hilt of her dagger as she walks.
[RP]: Slesthas trails after Hafwen, sometimes doubling back on himself, and other times zigzagging along the road.
[RP]: Hafwen reaches the dogs quite a few paces ahead of her strange new friend, then stops to wait for him.
[RP]: Slesthas sees the Tolnedran waiting, and runs ahead.
[RP]: Hafwen scans the dockyard.
[RP]: Slesthas skids to a halt and falls flat on his face. 'Mud!' he grumbles into the slime.
[RP]: Hafwen turns and without thinking bends down to put her hand on Slesthas' arm to help him up.
[RP]: Slesthas rises from the ground, spluttering incoherently. He allows Hafwen to help him, spitting a mouthful of dirt out.
[RP]: Hafwen stands, her hand still on his arm, and waits for him to compose himself.
[RP]: Slesthas starts jumping angrily on the ground.
[RP]: Slesthas shouts 'Badmudbadmudbadmudbadmudbadbabll...' and almost falls over again.
[RP]: Hafwen giggles. Easy, my little friend. I'm sure the ground meant no offense. She grins and turns back toward the docks, looking for a certain ship.
[RP]: Slesthas gives the ground one hard stamp, and storms off after Hafwen.
[RP]: Hafwen stops at the end of a dock, the ship before her creaking as a putrid wind slides across the wharf. The captain of the ship lounged against some crates, not looking as his sailors loaded the cargo.
[RP]: Slesthas sniffs the air suspiciously, and looks at the ship dubiously.
[RP]: Slesthas mutters 'Slesthas not liking river, oh no.'
[RP]: Hafwen glances at Slesthas. She whispers Trust me, it'll be quicker. I'll keep you safe.
[RP]: Slesthas scowls at the river. 'When me seeing river, me wanting to drop poison for leech in there. But me must not...'
[RP]: Hafwen turns and looks quizzically at Slesthas. I don't see any reason why not. She walks over and taps the captain on the shoulder, then talks to him in hushed tones. He is uncooperative until she hands him a fat coin pouch.
[RP]: Slesthas explains to Hafwen. 'Some leeches good. Some bad.'
[RP]: Hafwen mutters something under her breath. Unfortunately, he'll only take us to the other side of the river. She shudders. That means the jungles. The only thing Hafwen hates more than Sthiss Tor is the Jungles of Nyissa.
[RP]: Slesthas brightens. 'Jungles! Many snakes... uh... me can asking them to go away... but crowded in there.'
[RP]: Hafwen shudders again. I guess there's no help for it. She nods at the captain and hands the money over, then beckons to Slesthas. I suppose now's a good a time as any. She heads toward the end of the dock and the ship waiting beyond.
[RP]: Slesthas trails after Hafwen, staring at the distant jungles longingly.
[RP]: Hafwen wanders up the gangplank, looking into the water and shuddering as a leech swims by. Slesthas fears of the river weren't unfounded, and she shared them. But she'd rather take a boat than swim across.
[RP]: Slesthas trots up after Hafwen, and meanders to the large grill in the middle of the ship. He stands there, staring down there intently.
[RP]: Hafwen takes her usual place near the bow of the ship, leaning against the rail and unsheathing her dagger. She glances around her, then furtively pulls the bottle of cloudy, brownish liquid from her satchel.
[RP]: Hafwen takes the stopper out and shakes a couple of drops onto her tongue, then puts the bottle away. She then settles in, waiting for the drug to take affect.
[RP]: Hafwen closes her eyes briefly as the drug takes affect. A quiet numbness spreads from her brain in waves, washing over her body. She takes several deep breaths.
[RP]: Slesthas stares down at the grill for a moment longer, then turns away, almost disgustedly.
[RP]: Hafwen stares dreamily over the river as her dagger finds its way from its sheath to her wrists, slicing almost gently, the blood dripping across the rail and down the side of the ship into the water.
[RP]: Slesthas glances at the direction of Hafwen, and looks away, his eyes distant.
[RP]: Slesthas shakes his head, and peers into his pouch, doublechecking everything is still in there.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Satisfied everything is where it should be, he walks towards Hafwen.
[RP]: Slesthas freezes at the sight of Hafwen's wrists.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The leeches swarm towards the blood, blindly scrabbling at the ship.
[RP]: Slesthas nervously taps Hafwen's shoulder.
[RP]: Hafwen turns suddenly, her mind in a fog. She looks blankly at Slesthas, her dagger coated with fresh blood.
[RP]: Slesthas leans forward warily, and sniffs her breath. Yes, that faint smell is there.
[RP]: Slesthas closes his hand carefully on the dagger, and tugs at it lightly.
[RP]: Hafwen pulls back slightly as he reaches for her dagger. Her mind in a fog, she barely recognizes him. She steps back and hits the rail, almost losing her balance.
[RP]: Slesthas yelps and grabs Hafwen by her wrists, and winces at the blood seeping through the thin, leather gloves.
[RP]: Slesthas pulls her back to the safety of the ship, and gingerly peels the gloves off.
[RP]: Hafwen shakes her head and blinks a few times. Her mouth opens, as if she's about to speak, then closes again.
[RP]: Slesthas keeps an eye on her, while wiping his hands on the railing. 'Long, long day is today becoming...' he muttered to himself.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He plucks a flask from his pouch and rinses his hands with the water. Then he stares at Hafwen's wrists, frowning.
[RP]: Hafwen blinks again, then sheaths her dagger. 'm sorry, Slesthas. Forgot.. she mumbles.
[RP]: Slesthas blinks in surprise.
[RP]: Slesthas shakes his head. 'Is ok, is ok. Ship sailing now. Well. Rowing.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): Gesturing at her wrists, he asks 'Want me to clean or you clean?'
[RP]: Hafwen nods absently, then holds out her wrists to him. You uh...have any more of that stuff? She's reluctant to reach into her bag. Curious sailors have started staring at them.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He nods, tucking the gloves into his belt with a grimace.
[RP]: Slesthas draws out a vial from his pouch and lets a few drops of the glistening liquid fall on each wrist. He awkwardly gestures at them. 'You rub into skin. Me afraid me hurting you...'
[RP]: Hafwen nods and rubs the liquid into her wrists.
[RP]: Slesthas shrugs off his satchel, and pulls out the heavy chest. He unlocks it with practiced ease and takes out his spare gloves.
[RP]: Slesthas dons the soft, lambskin gloves and gazes at Hafwen, not entirely sure what to do next.
[RP]: Hafwen pats Slesthas on the shoulder, then turns to hang over the rail again. The water ripples as leeches brush up against the side of the boat. Ever think about just jumping and ending it all? she whispers, mostly to herself.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Slesthas, not sure if the words were directed at him, replies uncertainly 'No... me liking lifing.'
[RP]: Hafwen glances over her shoulder at him. Why? What's so good about life? She absently strokes her wrists, dried blood flaking off them and floating gently to the river. The other side loomed ahead, and Hafwen was getting impatient.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The oars creak to the rhythm of the booming drums. Slesthas gropes for an answer, then says very slowly, 'What's not good about life?'
[RP]: (Slesthas): Waving a hand in the air, he tries to explain. 'There's so much to see and learn... and so many people to meet. I meaning... not always good... but can learn from them.'
[RP]: Hafwen gropes for an answer herself. She has to admit, he has a point. Heh. She smiles at him, sort of. I guess you're right.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Tipping his head to one side, Slesthas regards Hafwen. 'So want me asking snakes to go away? When ship getting there me mean.'
[RP]: Hafwen smiles at him. No, that's ok. I know you like them. She looks at him carefully. You could ask them not to bite me, though.
[RP]: Slesthas giggles. 'Snakes not liking biting us. They scared we step on them.'
[RP]: Hafwen says 'Really? She considers this.'
[RP]: Slesthas thinks about it, and adds 'Rotting uses also not smelling nice to them.'
[RP]: Hafwen giggles. You're the expert, I'll take your word for it.
[RP]: Slesthas sniffs the air and tugs his hood unconsciously. 'Me thinking it raining soon.'
[RP]: Hafwen looks up. I think you're right.
[RP]: Slesthas suddenly remembers his chest is lying out in the open, and he hurriedly crouches to close it and slip it back into the satchel.
[RP]: Hafwen glances around them. Some sailors have started muttering amongst themselves, and one had started walking toward them. She steps in front of Slesthas, her hand on her dagger, her eyes challenging. Problem, boys?
[RP]: Slesthas picks up the satchel and looks at the approaching shore eagerly, once again oblivious to all behind him.
[RP]: Slesthas starts humming offtune to himself again, bobbing his head to the ship's sluggish motion.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The sailors back off slightly as the ship approaches the shore. The captain barks some orders, and the gangplank is dropped, barely reaching from the ship to the shore. Leeches gather hopefully near the edge.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Time to going off!' He turns around and his eyes widen at the sight of the assembled sailors. 'What...?'
[RP]: Slesthas frowns slightly. 'You wanting buy drugs like lady? Me not thinking me have enough. Maybe after if into jungle going.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods at Slesthas, then puts her hand firmly on his arm. Come with me, and be quiet. She glares at the sailors, then tugs at Slesthas, wanting him to follow her to the gangplank.
[RP]: Slesthas stumbles slightly as he tries to twist around to follow her. He keeps his jaws clamped shut, feeling confused.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He ends up hunched slightly, leaning towards the Tolnedran trying not to get strangled by his collar.
[RP]: Hafwen leads him to the gangplank and gently nudges him toward it. You go first. Watch the leeches, she whispers, then turns toward the again advancing sailors.
[RP]: Slesthas nods happily, and skips down the gangplank. He jumps and lands in the muddy bank with a squelch.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'If you good mud me not stamping on you like mud just now.'
[RP]: Slesthas lifts his boot and points at the dried flecks of mud. 'You is seeing? This is bad mud.'
[RP]: Hafwen skips down the gangplank after Slesthas, slipping in the mud and hitting the ground hard, one bloody arm landing in the water.
[RP]: Slesthas scrambles to drag Hafwen out of the water, and kicks frantically at the rapidly approaching leeches. 'Bad leech! Bad leech!' he yells at the top of his voice.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The sailors sneer, lifting the gangplank.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Getting vexed at the chasing leeches, Slesthas grabs one fat leech and throws it at the others.
[RP]: Hafwen scrambles backwards, letting Slesthas pull her to safety. Thanks kid.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Bad leech! See what you making poor Slesthas do!'
[RP]: Hafwen arches an eyebrow at Slesthas and grins. You tell 'em. She picks herself up and makes a face at her mud-covered clothes. Turning toward the jungle, she sighs.
[RP]: Slesthas turns around with a huff. 'You doing well, Hafwen? Maybe good it rain. Ladies shouldn't be muddy.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods at him. I'm good, thanks.
[RP]: Slesthas nods happily to the rumble of thunder.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The rain begins to fall, obscuring everything in a white mist.
[RP]: Slesthas spreads his hands to welcome the cold, water soaking through his clothes.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He dances towards the dense undergrowth, splashing noisily.
[RP]: Hafwen sighs as the rain soaks her even more. She chuckles, and follows the dancing Nyissan into the jungle.
[RP]: Slesthas stops when the vegetation totally obscures the river, and peers around furtively.
[RP]: (Slesthas): A snake twined around a bough looks at him.
[RP]: Hafwen stops, looking at the snake apprehensively.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He holds a finger to his lips, and shoots furtive glances around him.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Then, satisfied with the lack of people, he throws off his hood and capers maniacally.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake regards this seemingly indifferently.
[RP]: Hafwen blinks rapidly a couple of times. She looks at Slesthas curiously, then shrugs. Ok, jungle expert. How do we get in?
[RP]: Slesthas beckons the snake, and whispers loudly, 'Telling others being nice to Hafwen-lady.'
[RP]: Slesthas giggles and shrugs. 'Snakes tell me which way to going.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. After you, then. She ties her bag closed tightly and shrugs her shoulders against the downpour. Squinting, she glances back toward the river. The ship had all but disappeared.
[RP]: Slesthas nods and bows to Hafwen formally. Then, he holds up his hands and waltzes into the forest with an invisible partner.
[RP]: Hafwen shakes her head and smiles in spite of herself. She follows Slesthas into the jungle, her hand on her dagger.





[RP]: Hafwen sits, her back against a tree. She watches Slesthas, smiling in spite of herself. The last week had been interesting, to say the least. His constant ramblings keep her company, and his nagging about her cutting herself was, she has to admit, working.
[RP]: Slesthas tucks the handful of leaves into his already bloated pouch. 'Slesthas happyhappy now,' he announces to the world.
[RP]: Hafwen giggles and pokes at the fire with her stick. The sun is on its way down, and the jungle begins to come alive. A snake slithers by her, and she waggles her fingers at it.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake stops and regards Hafwen with beady eyes. Slesthas hops on the spot agitatedly.
[RP]: Hafwen looks at Slesthas. Is this one poison? She points at the snake.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He cocks his head at the snake, and nods excitedly. 'Yeah. Poison making you druggie.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): After another moment of listening, he says solemnly 'Jungles ending quickquick soontime. Forest time. Chocolatey time. Firehead time.'
[RP]: Slesthas shudders at the last two words.
[RP]: Hafwen looks up sharply. Firehead? Her brow furrows. Suddenly, she laughs, the snake forgotten.
[RP]: Slesthas looks at Hafwen baffledly. 'Firehead scary. Like Nadrakies ladies.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): He mimes drawing a bow. 'Nasty, nasty arrows.'
[RP]: Hafwen grins at him. Just give them sweets, they'll follow you like .. well, little snakes. She giggles and watches as the snake slithers away.
[RP]: Slesthas shivers. 'Me wanting them way away! Not close close.'
[RP]: Hafwen giggles. I'll keep them away, promise. She winks at him and pokes at the fire, trying to stir it up a little.
[RP]: Slesthas hunches down, drawing his hood over his hair. His red eyes gleam in the firelight.
[RP]: Hafwen stretches and yawns. It'd been a long day of walking, and it was probably going to be a long night.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake slithers towards him, and he picks it up and strokes its blunt head.
[RP]: Slesthas starts. 'No, biting firehead no good. Too many fireheads. We is getting arrowied. Me is sleepying.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake coils around his hand, and the Nyissan yawns, nodding. 'That is fire. But that bad when dry.'
[RP]: Hafwen is about to respond, then realizes he's speaking to the snake. She chuckles then leans back against the tree.
[RP]: Slesthas looks at Hafwen. 'Sleeping time?'
[RP]: Hafwen shakes her head. Nah, I'll keep watch.
[RP]: Slesthas frowns, perplexed. 'But no sleeping meaning no thinking like glass. Me no sleep me thinking like mud.'
[RP]: Hafwen raises her eyebrow and, unconsciously perhaps, reaches down to stroke the snake that had just slithered up to her. I'm fine, Slesthas. You sleep. She picks up a stick with her other hand and pokes at the fire again.
[RP]: Slesthas shakes his head. 'If you tired too much tomorrow we is getting arrowied.' He mutters, as he curls up, the snake held close to his chest.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Its scales rasp against each other as the snake shifts closer to the warm of Slesthas' body.
[RP]: Hafwen stifles a yawn and makes herself comfortable. Her eyes widen as the snake she'd been petting curls up in her lap. Er.. Slesthas? Her hands start to shake.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Mrrphhh?'
[RP]: Slesthas cracks an eye open, and closes it again.
[RP]: Hafwen swallows hard. I seem to have a snake in my lap. She shudders slightly. Is it poisonous?
[RP]: Slesthas opens his eyes blearily, pushing his hood out of his face. 'No....zzz' His head gently thumps onto the rotting foilage.
[RP]: Hafwen nods absently, then reaches a trembling hand down to pat the snake. The snake raises its head, then rubs against her hand. She can't swear to it, but it seems almost as if the snake is purring.
[RP]: Slesthas curls up even more tightly, muttering to himself.
[RP]: Hafwen yawns and lays down, the snake flicking its tongue as she shifts. She giggles quietly, then beckons to the little snake. It looks at her carefully, then curls up on her chest. She smiles and closes her eyes.
[RP]: (Slesthas): After a long night of dreams and nightmares, Slesthas woke, feeling wonderfully refreshed. The dreams were all forgotten as he bounced up, and the snake almost falls onto the ground.
[RP]: Slesthas barely catches it in time, and apologises. 'Me is sorry! Me is sorry!' The snake flicked its tongue annoyedly at him, and he looks bashful.
[RP]: Slesthas carefully sets the snake onto the ground, and wriggles his fingers in a farewell.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake burrows away, disappearing amidst the ferns and mushrooms.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The Nyissan makes a face as he turns in the direction of the forest.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Then, he turns to stare contemplatively at the source of snoring.
[RP]: Hafwen shifts and opens an eye, wincing at the light. She groans and rubs her eyes with one hand, the other still resting protectively on the snake snoring peacefully on her chest.
[RP]: Slesthas reaches down and taps the snake's head. Its eyelids slide aside, and black eyes stare into his. He beams.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake then bares its fangs in a yawn.
[RP]: Hafwen blinks, and looks up. She grins and sits up, cradling the little snake protectively to keep it from falling. Mornin' she says groggily.
[RP]: Slesthas rolls his eyes. 'Bad manners!'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake looks at him, almost challengingly.
[RP]: Slesthas throws his hands dramatically into the air. 'Bad manners...' he mutters to himself as he plonks himself back onto the bed of leaves.
[RP]: Hafwen looks at Slesthas, then at the snake. She grins and lowers the snake to the ground, then stands and stretches.
[RP]: Slesthas ignores the snake as it butts his arm with its head.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake butts his arm again. Slesthas scowls, looking straight ahead.
[RP]: Hafwen yawns and stretches again, then pulls some bread from her satchel. She breaks off a piece and offers it to Slesthas.
[RP]: Slesthas takes it and sniffs at it. 'Yum!' he exclaims and digs in.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake hisses in frustration, and rears back to bite him to get his attention. Slesthas jumps, and gives the snake a hurt look. 'You is wanting to bite me?'
[RP]: Hafwen raises an eyebrow.
[RP]: Slesthas reaches out, and the snake slithers onto his hand.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He peers into its eyes, and shrugs, offering it to Hafwen.
[RP]: Hafwen reaches out and the snake crawls onto her hand. He is fairly small, as snakes go, and curls up in her hand, wrapping his tail around her wrist and looking at her, his tongue flicking.
[RP]: Slesthas stretches, and glances at Hafwen slyly. 'Me thoughting you is not snake liking?'
[RP]: Hafwen arches a brow in Slesthas' direction. Must be contagious. She grins at him and strokes the snake's tiny head with her finger. So, shall we be off?
[RP]: Slesthas pouts. 'Oh all right...'
[RP]: Hafwen grins. Sorry, I know you're not looking forward to the dryads. But we're making good time. Doesn't make sense to stop now. She puts a hand on Slesthas' shoulder. I'll keep you safe. Promise.
[RP]: Slesthas tugs at his hood. 'Women talk always confusing Slesthas. You woman, fireheads woman, can talk woman talk.'
[RP]: Slesthas nods to himself. 'Me still liking Slesthas speak.'
[RP]: Hafwen grins. She is beginning to like Slesthas speak, too. She pats his shoulder and sets the snake on the ground. Farewell, little friend. The snake looks at her and flicks his tongue.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Slesthas raises an eyebrow, and bursts into hysterical laughter.
[RP]: Hafwen arches an eyebrow.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He barely manages to splutter 'He... is liking... you! Not... wanting... leave!'
[RP]: Hafwen giggles. Um... She scratches her head. Well, I guess we can take him with us, then.
[RP]: Slesthas makes a face at the snake, but inwardly he is laughing.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Still.
[RP]: Hafwen shakes her head and heads in the direction of the dryads. Well, if you two are coming with me, let's go. She looks over her shoulder and winks.
[RP]: Slesthas runs after Hafwen, clutching his head protectively.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The transition from jungle to forest was subtle, but the further into the forest they went, the less dense the foliage and undergrowth became.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Sunlight filters through the lush green leaves, a contrast from the darkness of the jungle.
[RP]: Slesthas keeps his hands strictly to himself, muttering something about fireheads and their trees.
[RP]: Hafwen looks down at the little snake slithering near her feet. He darts in and out of bushes while they walk. She pauses occasionally to check on Slesthas.
[RP]: Slesthas resists the urge to skip and caper, wrapping his arms around his chest. 'Me is not liking this, me is not liking this, meisnotlikingthis!!!' he yelps at the sight of a flash of red.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Fortunately, it was just a tree in full blossom.
[RP]: Hafwen stops, allowing Slesthas to catch up with her. She reaches down and picks up the snake who had followed them from the jungle into the forest. She cradles him gently in one hand, her other hand going to her dagger.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'I think we can make it through the forest today, if we just keep going.'
[RP]: Slesthas sprints, and shoots ahead of Hafwen, before skidding to a halt. 'Er... which way we going?'
[RP]: Hafwen glances around. She'd been through the forest a number of times. Getting her bearings, she changes their course slightly. Just follow me. And don't touch any trees.
[RP]: Slesthas nods fervently.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The sun is setting as they step from the woods near the outskirts of Tol Borune. They'd made it through without seeing a single Dryad.
[RP]: Slesthas collapses the moment he is out of the forest with relief, draping a theatrical arm over his eyes.
[RP]: Hafwen laughs. Oh, come on. It wasn't that bad. She bends down the let the snake to the ground and watches him slither off, most likely in search of food. The gates of Tol Borune loom ahead, and she is wary.
[RP]: (Slesthas): After a moment, he springs back up. 'What name is that Tolnedrian city? It looking big and... rich.'
[RP]: Hafwen looks around carefully. Tol Borune, she answers quietly. She turns to look at Slesthas. You'll need to tread carefully here. Tolnedrans are fussy about drugs.
[RP]: (Slesthas): His eyes widen. 'Ooohhhhhh.... Tol Burano! Me knowing some people there...'
[RP]: Slesthas frowns. 'Me cannot remembering names though...'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. No matter, I'm sure they'll remember you. She winks at him, then starts toward the city.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Me thinking they are Tolbites... er... Torbites?'
[RP]: Hafwen looks at him. Horbites, maybe?
[RP]: Slesthas frowns to himself. 'Maybe, possibe...'
[RP]: Slesthas pulls at his hood, bobbing his head.

Continued in Hafwen's storyboard.

[RP]: Slesthas trots after Hafwen, staring up at the strangely familiar city. 'Tol Borune...' he mutters to himself, trying to place where and when he had visited the city before.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The legionnaires standing guard eye the approaching pair warily.
[RP]: Hafwen glances over her shoulder at Slesthas, then slows to let him catch up to her. She eyes the guards warily, then begins to move again.
[RP]: Slesthas tugs at his hood nervously, muttering under his breath as he tries to sort out his thoughts in his mind.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The legionnaires say nothing as the pair shuffle through the gates. The Nyissan breathes a sigh of relief.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The strain of not speaking out loud for more than a few moments was tiring.
[RP]: Hafwen gives Slesthas an encouraging pat on the shoulder, then leads him to the nearest tavern.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The door opens, and Hafwen, snake draped around her shoulders, steps through the doorway. She looks around the room, a challenge in her eye, then chooses an empty table close to the door.
[RP]: Slesthas hesitates, eyeing the table, then the relative safety of the shadows.
[RP]: Slesthas reluctantly sits himself next to Hafwen.
[RP]: Hafwen arches an eyebrow at Slesthas. We can move to a different table if you like, she whispers.
[RP]: Slesthas shakes his head. 'Me must getting used to.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): Quite a few patrons in the tavern were drunk, roaring with laughter as they downed beer after beer, spilling most of it down their fronts.
[RP]: Hafwen nods. She coaxes the little snake off her shoulder and hands him to Slesthas. The looks she is getting from other patrons suggest that they didn't like the idea of a snake in the tavern.
[RP]: (Slesthas): A man lies sprawled on one of the tables, an empty wine bottle rolling from his hand.
[RP]: Slesthas quickly takes the snake and whispers 'You is being safe if you staying here...' reassuringly, then he slips the snake into his pouch.
[RP]: Hafwen catches the barkeep's eye. Ale. And lots of it. He nods, and sends the first mugs to the table. Hafwen digs some gold from her pouch and gives them to the barmaid.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The barmaid flicks one coin in the air, and smiles fleetingly. She strides to the bar briskly, and stands there, drumming her fingers impatiently.
[RP]: Hafwen downs the first mug with one swallow. It'd been awhile, and she is mighty thirsty.
[RP]: (Slesthas): One of the drunken men has been eyeing Hafwen ever since she entered the tavern with that look in her eyes.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The barkeep hands the barmaid a few tankards of ale, filled to the brim, and she quickly loads them onto a tray.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Once done, she quickly returns to Hafwen's table, and sets the tankards down.
[RP]: Hafwen nods absently at the barmaid, takes the mugs, and mutters A pitcher too, if you don't mind. She eyes the barmaid. Unless you feel like walking a lot tonight.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man sneers, standing up, and lurches towards the Tolnedran. ''Ere... you...' he slurrs, stumbling over a chair.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The barmaid's eyes narrow as she casts the man a suspicious glance, but she merely nods curtly and walks back to the bar.
[RP]: Hafwen raises an eyebrow at the drunken man as he stumbles. She shakes her head and picks up her mug.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man's eyebrows furrow. ''Ey! 'M talkin' tah you...' He shoves another drunken man out of the way, and staggers to stand at the table.
[RP]: Slesthas stares up at the man with wide-eyed fascination.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man slams his hands down on the table, squinting at the Nyissan. 'Wha youu lukin' at, eh?'
[RP]: Hafwen sets her mug down carefully, then stands. She ignores the man for a brief moment, her jaw clenching. When her eyes finally meet his, they are cold, devoid of any emotion. May I help you?
[RP]: Slesthas cringes.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man glares at Hafwen. 'Youuu dumb broad... think youuu ken come inere an' drinkin' makesh you a man?'
[RP]: Slesthas says in a very small voice 'Hafwen... what he saying?'
[RP]: Hafwen stands a little straighter. Coming in here and drinking makes me drunk. She sneers at him. Coming in here and drinking makes you stupid.
[RP]: Hafwen places a hand protectively on Slesthas' shoulder. Go wait outside, kid. I don't want you to get hurt. she whispers.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man's eyes widen at the insult. 'You bitch!' He tries to grab Hafwen with one hand, fumbling at his long knife with his other, swearing profusely.
[RP]: Hafwen deflecting his arm, she draws her own dagger. That wasn't a very nice thing to say. She skirts around the table behind the man, taking note of the suddenly very quiet room. She stands her ground in the center of the room, and waits.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The barmaid, on her way to deliver the jug of ale, stops in her tracks.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Ahh dun care wash nish an' wash not...' he shouts, lunging at her. In the process, however, he trips over the cowering Nyissan.
[RP]: Slesthas gets crushed by the man, and with all breath knocked out of him, can only wave his arms frantically.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man shakes his head, climbing onto his knees. Slesthas takes that opportunity to wriggle out under the drunkard, whimpering, and hoping the snake isn't crushed.
[RP]: Hafwen utters an oath under her breath and rushes to help Slesthas. She kicks at the man savagely, putting herself in between him and the cowering Nyissan.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man grunts, but staggers to his feet, and swings a fist at him.
[RP]: Hafwen dodges the fist and aims a punch at the man's ribs.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man stumbles backwards, and finally manages to free his knife.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He crouches down, readying himself to attack. Behind him, his mate, also inebriated, stirs from his seat.
[RP]: Slesthas backs away slowly, wincing as his limbs protest. He sincerely hopes he hasn't broken anything.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The mate peers at the hooded figure backing out of the fight, and sneers.
[RP]: Hafwen readies herself for the fight. She glares at the man, her dagger drawn. Her eyes flashing, she merely waits.
[RP]: Slesthas sees that he is noticed, and freezes. His hand into his cloak, and tightens around a coil of wire.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man lashes out with his knife in a bright arc.
[RP]: Hafwen dances back, avoiding the slash easily. Is that the best you can do?
[RP]: (Slesthas): At the same time, his mate closes in on Slesthas, his dagger drawn and thirsting for blood.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man flushes.
[RP]: Slesthas squeals as he dodges out of the way.
[RP]: Hafwen turns her head sharply, her opponent momentarily forgotten. Slesthas
[RP]: (Slesthas): Taking advantage of the distraction, he steps forwards, stabbing the knife at her.
[RP]: Slesthas hears someone calling his name as he uncoils the wire, ducking under the slashing dagger.
[RP]: Hafwen gasps as the knife slides easily into her side. The pain is excruciating. She stumbles backwards, the man's grip on the knife pulling it out. She drops to one knee, blood gushing from the wound in her side.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The mate curses, flailing his dagger as he tries to hit the quick Nyissan. Already, Slesthas was slowing.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man roars with laughter, and his mate's head snaps around.
[RP]: (Slesthas): At that moment, Slesthas springs forward, throwing the wire around the mate's neck. He immediately drops down, and the wire cuts into the man's neck.
[RP]: Hafwen gasps for air, her eyes tearing up. She puts one hand to her side, not really comprehending what is happening. Pulling her hand away, she blinks through the haze of pain, looking at the blood on her hand.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man, oblivious to his mate's blight, waves his knife in the air triumphantly. 'Nevah senda woooman tah a tavern.' He turns around, displaying the bloody blade for all to see.
[RP]: Slesthas hisses in frustration as the wire slices through the thin glove and into his hand.
[RP]: Slesthas pulls the wire free, and the mate collapses on the ground, gurgling as he clutches at his throat.
[RP]: Hafwen growls low in her throat and lunges forward, her dagger aimed for the small of the man's back.
[RP]: (Slesthas): His laughter suddenly stops, and he stiffens, as the dagger runs right through his kidney.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The barmaid, barkeep and patrons watch in horrified silence.
[RP]: Slesthas spins around, ignoring the convulsing man and pooling blood. 'Hafwen...?'
[RP]: Hafwen clenches her jaw and twists the dagger sharply while it's still in the man's back, ripping the muscles. She then pulls the dagger back out. Shakily, she stands and look around the room. She spits on the man and turns to Slesthas.
[RP]: Slesthas stares at the wet patch in the Tolnedran's side.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Too shocked to even mutter, he numbly pulls out a vial and a wad of cloth, and offers it mutely to her.
[RP]: Hafwen takes a step toward him, her hand reaching for the vial. She stops as pain rips through her. Her fists clenched, she closes her eyes and waits until it subsides again. Let's get out of here. She says it quietly, opening her eyes.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The barmaid drops the jug, and it shatters on the floor. Ale spills out, mingling with the blood.
[RP]: Slesthas tugs at his hood, nodding.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The tavern is silent. She takes a deep breath and steps toward the door, putting a shaky hand on Slesthas' shoulder.
[RP]: Slesthas flinches slightly. 'Where we going?' he asks in a monotone.
[RP]: Hafwen winces. Out of town. We can't stay here. Already people are starting to stir. One man takes a long look at the pair and rushes out the door and down the street. The sooner, the better.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Grabbing Hafwen by the arm, Slesthas supports her as they walk out of the tavern. The small Nyissan can barely bear her weight as they made their way down the thankfully empty streets as fast as possible.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Slesthas glances over his shoulder, and seeing her bloody footprints, presses the wad of cloth against her side, before moving on.
[RP]: Hafwen can only follow. In the distance, shouts of Help! and Murder! can be heard.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Despite not having a clue of where he is going, Slesthas' feet guide him down one street, around a corner, and into another.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Eventually, they reach a small gate. Slesthas stares at the gate for some time, and gently pushes it. It swings open, revealing a small courtyard beyond it, and a medium-sized house.
[RP]: Slesthas warily enters the courtyard, his eyes darting from side to side.
[RP]: Slesthas looks at Hafwen, concerned. 'Is you all right?'
[RP]: Hafwen blinks and looks around. I thought we were leaving town. She stops as another wave of pain washes over her. Nodding in response to his question, she takes a deep breath.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'I'm fine.'
[RP]: Slesthas frowns. 'You is heavy... uhh... bigger than Slesthas... mucho hurt,' he points at the wound in her side, 'Tol Borune big.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The gate suddenly closes, and Slesthas jumps.
[RP]: (Slesthas): It is just the wind.
[RP]: Hafwen turns sharply, the motion causing the wound in her side to open again. She cries out briefly, then closes her mouth, breathing hard.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'We must resting.' He offers his arm to Hafwen.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The Tolnedran takes it. The front door is also unlocked, oddly enough.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He lowers Hafwen slowly onto the floor, and, trembling with exhaustion, says 'Me is thinking... this is Slesthas' house...'
[RP]: Slesthas pauses, distant memories stirring. 'Me getting blanket and pillows and water?'
[RP]: Hafwen nods, her eyes closing.
[RP]: Slesthas sets off, letting his feet guide him, and stops.
[RP]: Slesthas says 'Oh. He looks down, and sees the snake's head protruding from the pouch. It looks up at him curiously.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): He gingerly cups his hands, letting the snake crawl onto his bloody gloves. 'Me is sorry...' He jumps as the snake slithers over a wound, and hurriedly sets it onto the ground. 'Finding Hafwen? Me needing to... get things.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake flicks its tongue.
[RP]: Slesthas looks down at the open wounds and hurries to the well, where he painfully draws a bucket of water and washes his hands.
[RP]: Hafwen moans as she shifts. She opens her eyes carefully and looks around. She is lying on a floor, in a house. Slesthas? Her voice is quiet, her throat dry.
[RP]: Slesthas quickly bandages them as he goes up the stairs into the bedrooms.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He kicks up a cloud of dust. Coughing, he collides into a door and falls into a room. 'Issa...' he groans, bruising his already battered body.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Rolling to his side, he manages to get up again, and strips the bed of its moth-eaten sheets, blankets and pillows.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The little snake slithers toward Hafwen, his tongue flicking. He stops and raises his head slightly, making a curious sound. Hafwen's eyes pop open again, and she turns her head toward the snake.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Reaching out with a shaky hand, she picks him up and settles him on her chest.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Burdened with the bulky items, he slowly makes his way down the stairs excrutiatingly slowly, praying to Issa that he would not fall over again.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The snake, curious, turns his nose toward Hafwen's seeping wound. His tongue tasting the air, he hisses quietly.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Once at the bottom of the stairs, he gives Issa thanks, and hurries back to where Hafwen is. 'Hafwen? Is you ok?' he mumbles into his pillow.
[RP]: Hafwen looks up at the pile of blankets and pillows. She smiles in spite of her pain. I'm ok, Slesthas. She winces again.
[RP]: Slesthas stops where he thinks Hafwen's voice is coming from, and tries to peer around the pillow. When satisfied she is not in the way, he drops everything.
[RP]: Slesthas drops to his knees and carefully props Hafwen up with a pillow.
[RP]: Slesthas says quietly 'They shouldn't be able to find us... I hope' as he examines Hafwen's wound.
[RP]: Hafwen winces as she tries to make herself comfortable. The snake hisses at her and slithers off, waiting until she stops moving.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'That'd be nice,' murmured Slesthas distantly to the snake, which headed off towards the door.
[RP]: Hafwen mumbles something incoherently as her eyes close again. Wincing occasionally as Slesthas pokes at her wound, she drifts off to a painful sleep.





[RP]: (Hafwen): Hafwen's eyes open slowly. Her throat is dry and the wound in her side throbs. She moves slightly, then winces as her muscles protest. The little snake curled up on her stomach shifts and yawns, then opens his eyes to look at her.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Some distance away from Hafwen, Slesthas slumbers soundly, squirming under his blankets as he shifts his position.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The snake yawns again, then slides off Hafwen's stomach and down the side of the bed. He turns to flick his tongue at her, then slithers out of the room. Hafwen sighs. Slowly, painfully, she rises to a sitting position. Her eyes close and she cries out as her wound shrieks in protest.
[RP]: Slesthas grumbles in his sleep, dreaming of the past, and jerks awake. 'Whatwhatwhat?' he exclaims, sitting bolt upright.
[RP]: Slesthas rubs his eyes and sees the Tolnedran. 'Hafwen! You ok? No moving! Bad girl.' He frowns, scrambling to her side.
[RP]: Hafwen nods and opens her eyes, blinking back tears of pain. I'm ok. Her voice is quiet, raspy. A glass of water would be nice. She coughs, clutching her side, then moans in pain.
[RP]: Slesthas grimaces at Hafwen's condition. 'Water...' he mumbles as he pulls his pouch to him. From it, he takes out a vial, which he empties into a skin of water. 'Killing pain,' he explains.
[RP]: Hafwen nods. I trust you. She takes the water and drinks deeply, then splutters and coughs again, handing the skin back to Slesthas. Doubling over, her body shakes as she coughs.
[RP]: Slesthas pats Hafwen gingerly on her back. 'Slow drinking... then not choke.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake looks at Hafwen, then at Slesthas.
[RP]: Hafwen takes a ragged breath and nods. Her coughs subside, and she sits up again, wincing. What day is it?
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'She becoming fine... if resting much,' he reassures the snake.
[RP]: Slesthas frowns. 'Me is thinking three days. Me have gave you honey and some brothee.' He looks somewhat embarrassed at this point. 'Difficult to changing your bandages.'
[RP]: Hafwen smiles wanly. Heh, no worries. Like I said, I trust you. Hafwen looks at the little snake resting in the doorway. He's been here the whole time?
[RP]: Slesthas nods slowly. 'He is watching door when me going out. He drinking milk.'
[RP]: (Hafwen): The little snake slithers back to the bed and looks at them both. He then crawls up Hafwen's leg and curls up in her lap, butting his head against her hand.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'They is putting posters up. Having drawings of you, and saying me wearing cloakie.' He pats his cloak. 'Giving much gold if caught us.'
[RP]: Slesthas adds 'Well, not too many posters. Tolnedrians still liking neat city. Posters messy.'
[RP]: Hafwen arches a brow. That's not good. She pats the snake absently. Do you think you can get us out of the city safely?
[RP]: Slesthas nods, grinning impishly. 'Me can hiding you, and wearing pigment so me no cloakie need.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): He plucks a jar from his pouch and waggles it in front of Hafwen. 'Pretty pigment!'
[RP]: Hafwen laughs, then coughs again, wincing. I can't think of anyone I'd rather escape the city with. She winks at him, smiling, but her face it pale and drawn.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Blushing, Slesthas gestures at Hafwen's bandages. 'Me must checking. You healing well, but must careful.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods and lays back down on the bed. She opens her tunic, but keeps herself modestly covered, more for his sake than hers.
[RP]: Slesthas probes the area over the wound with gentle fingers. 'No swelling... hurt?'
[RP]: Hafwen winces. Uh, just a little.
[RP]: Slesthas nods to himself. 'No infecting. No bleeding. Just needing food and rest.' He looks at her questioningly. 'Meat?'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. Meat sounds good. She suddenly realizes that she's very hungry.
[RP]: Slesthas nods happily. 'Me heating up then.' He cocks his head at the snake. 'Him wanting petting.'
[RP]: Hafwen giggles and reaches for the snake. He crawls into Hafwen's hand, and she snuggles with him, stroking him. The snake purrs contentedly.
[RP]: Slesthas rubs his stomach in anticipation as he hurries to the kitchen. He struggles to move the heavy pot onto the small fire, and peers into the flames for a while.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He bites his lip, and tosses a few logs in. He watches the flames for another few moments, then returns to sit beside Hafwen. 'Cooking.'
[RP]: (Hafwen): The little snake hisses quietly, still purring. Hafwen looks at him curiously. We should name him.
[RP]: Slesthas smiles to himself. 'That good.'
[RP]: Hafwen looks at the little snake carefully. What do you think we should name him? She looks up at Slesthas.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake looks at Slesthas with his beady eyes, and Slesthas rolls his eyes. 'Me knowing. Yes, yes, me telling her. You hush hush first?'
[RP]: Hafwen looks at Slesthas, then the snake. What'd he say?
[RP]: (Slesthas): Scowling, Slesthas replies 'He having own name.' The Nyissan throws Hafwen a wide grin. 'Me wondering when you asking.'
[RP]: Hafwen blinks. He does? She chuckles, and pats the snake on the head. Well, little friend. Might I ask what your name is?
[RP]: (Hafwen): On some level, her brain balks at the fact that she was speaking to a snake. In fact, her brain still wonders what, exactly, she is doing hiding in a house with a Nyissan and a snake.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The snake hisses and spits. Slesthas giggles, translating. 'He calling Isspt.'
[RP]: Hafwen blinks. Isspt, eh? The name sounds a little like a snake hiss. That makes sense. Hafwen grins. It's nice to meet you, Isspt. She winks at Slesthas. How's that meat coming?
[RP]: Slesthas nods. 'It coming well...' He continues nodding, then stops, looking faintly puzzled. 'Or me hoping it well.'
[RP]: Hafwen chuckles. Should go check, eh? She shifts her position on the bed and winces again.
[RP]: Slesthas hops to his feet and rushes down to the kitchen.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The broth is bubbling happily in the pot. The Nyissan cautiously lifts the lid, and pulls his face back just in time to avoid the scalding steam. 'Wow, hottie!'
[RP]: Slesthas picks up the wooden ladle and fills two bowls. He also scoops out some of the chicken and herbs from the bottom of the pot into the bowls, which he then carefully carries back up to the room.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Food time!' he announces cheerfully as he very slowly makes his way across the room, trying not to spill the hot broth.
[RP]: Hafwen sits up carefully and sets Isspt on the bed next to her. She moves over to make room for Slesthas to sit on the bed and reaches for a bowl.
[RP]: Slesthas hands the fuller bowl to Hafwen, and settles down on the floor with his own bowl. 'Mmm this smelling good!'
[RP]: Slesthas blows on the broth, and sips at it. 'Mmm...' he mmms contently, feeling the broth warming his stomach.
[RP]: Hafwen grins and nods. Sure is. She tips the bowl up and sips from it, burning her tongue in the process. The broth is very good, and Hafwen continues to drink despite the burnt tongue.





[RP]: (Hafwen): The sun rises bright and warm over Tol Borune. Hafwen's eyes open and she stretches. Isspt hisses at her, then slithers off the bed and out the door. Hafwen pulls herself to a sitting position and yawns.
[RP]: Slesthas hums tunelessly to himself, grinding some herbs down in the kitchen.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Now all the various roots, berries, leaves, stems and even dead insects he has gathered are safely bottled for future use.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Obviously, he is happy, and also, at the same time, quite grateful for the Tolnedran's injuries. Though he doesn't like them, oh no, he doesn't.
[RP]: Hafwen stretches again, and stands. The wound in her side has all but healed, leaving an ugly scar. Hafwens yawns again, and opens the door, the hinges squeaking.
[RP]: Slesthas starts at the squeaking hinges, and mutters something about the wind and buying grease.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Finished with the grinding, he tips the mush into a funnel, and watches the grey-brown juice trickle down into a bowl.
[RP]: Hafwen leaves the room and starts down the stairs, ignoring the creaking wood. She is hungry, and figures her Nyissan friend is in the kitchen.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Drip. Drip. Drip.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The impatient Nyissan quickly bores of watching the painfully slow process, and turns to the task of preparing some food.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The kitchen door is slightly ajar, and Hafwen can see the Nyissan puttering around. She grins and opens the door quietly.
[RP]: Slesthas wonders what time it is. In the frenzy of processing the goods, he had lost track of time. Then again, he comforted himself, most Nyissans did.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Isspt, having fed himself already, slithers into the room between Hafwen's bare feet. He flicks his tongue out, licking her toe. Hafwen giggles, then picks the little snake up.
[RP]: Slesthas blinks, and very slowly looks over his shoulder. His eyes widen.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'You awake! You walk! Wow!'
[RP]: Slesthas bounces up and down on the spot. 'Wanting egg? Bacon? Me buying much.'
[RP]: Slesthas nods to himself, tugging at his hood.
[RP]: Hafwen grins and winks. Morning, Slesthas. Hafwen walks to a chair and sits, letting Isspt on the table. She yawns again. Anything sounds good.
[RP]: Slesthas cracks an egg expertly, and tips its contents into onto the sizzling pan. 'Mmm... yummy yummy.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): While preparing the breakfast, Slesthas rambles on aimlessly. '... and some leggies coming here. Them city guards. Knocking on door, asking who me. I say me is Slesthas. We chatting, they leaving... and today I try new pigment! Lookie!' He yanks down his hood, beaming at the Tolnedran proudly.
[RP]: Hafwen gasps. Very nice. She grins. So they suspect nothing, then? Hafwen thinks for a moment. How soon do you think we can leave town?
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Me can acting...' He tries to look serious. '"This is my property! Get out! Get out! Or I'll sue you!"' he says gruffly, and nods to himself again.
[RP]: Hafwen arches a brow. So you can talk like a normal person. She nods to herself and reaches for the milk pitcher.
[RP]: Slesthas rubs his head ruefully. 'Hurting head. Me don't want past came back.'
[RP]: Hafwen pours some milk in a little saucer and sets the saucer in front of Isspt. There ya go, Isspt. Drink up. Glancing up at Slesthas, she thinks carefully before responding.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'I wish I could forget my past sometimes.'
[RP]: Slesthas tilts his head as he regard the Tolnedran. 'It all here.' He taps his head, and tips the steaming eggs onto plates. 'Eat time!'
[RP]: Hafwen takes a plate and begins eating. Between bites, she speaks quietly. You remember your past, but don't like to think about it, you mean?
[RP]: Slesthas frowns as he gulps down the egg.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'I know past. From it you can never run away. But me not thinking it day and night.' He smiles happily at Hafwen. 'Looking forward good... you staying lifely.'
[RP]: Hafwen smiles ruefully. At least you can remember yours. She looks up at him. Nothing but blank space in my head. She taps her forehead and takes another bite.
[RP]: Slesthas looks puzzled, staring at his greasy plate. 'You taking drugs? Not mine, me meaning. Others.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. That's part of it, but that's not why I take the drugs. She finishes and pushes her plate away. Pulling a small vial of cloudy liquid from her bag, she sets it on the table. My memories faded long before I discovered this.
[RP]: Hafwen says 'The drugs keep me from being able to pull the memories from wherever they've gone.'
[RP]: Slesthas picks it up and peers intently at it. 'Me guessing you having reason. That you choices. Choose.' He gives it a shake, and opens it. 'Oh. This.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. I don't take the drugs to forget. They just don't let me remember. She runs a finger over the scars on her arm. I take the drugs for other reasons.
[RP]: Slesthas closes it again. 'This dreaming drug, but not very good. Many, many impurities. Supposing to be clearer.'
[RP]: Slesthas rolls it across the table, back to Hafwen. 'Me still no understanding cutting. Hurts. Bleed. Danger if in Snake Country.'
[RP]: Hafwen takes the bottle and puts it back in her bag. I know it's not good. She rubs the scars again. I don't know why I do it.
[RP]: Slesthas pulls off his gloves and looks at his pale forearm, then hers. 'Then stopping?'
[RP]: Hafwen sighs. I can't promise, Slesthas. She looks at him, her eyes haunted. I don't think about doing it. I just do it. And by the time I realize what I'm doing, it's usually too late.
[RP]: Slesthas takes out a jar and smears the brown ointment in it over his hands and arms, staining them brown. 'You already stopping... I is thinking.'
[RP]: Slesthas nods to himself. 'Else me can reminding. If you letting. You choices choose.'
[RP]: Hafwen smiles at him. I'll tell you what. If you see me doing it, you have my permission to take the dagger away.
[RP]: Slesthas grumbles to himself, picking up his plate and dunking it in the wooden basin of water. 'I will trying. You thinking you ready to go? Me thinking leggies will coming back soon.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. I'm ready any time. Just er.. tell me what you did with my boots? She grins and looks down at her bare feet.
[RP]: Slesthas points out at the garden. 'Me washing. Muddy.'
[RP]: Slesthas giggles. 'Me washing own ones too. They shiny.'
[RP]: Hafwen blinks. You ... washed my boots. She collapses back into the chair, laughing. Oh, Slesthas. Where would I be without you? Standing, she pats Isspt on the head, then heads out into the garden to get her boots.
[RP]: Slesthas frowns puzzledly. 'I dunno... in Sthiss Tor? Or maybe back here home.'
[RP]: Hafwen pulls her boots back on, and looks up in time to see armored soldiers walking up the street. Bolting back into the house, she raises an eyebrow. I think we may want to leave pretty soon.
[RP]: Slesthas stows the jar calmly, tucking the gloves into his belt. 'You go out backdoor? I talk to them... and I keep Isspt.' He grins cheekily. 'Tolnedrians not liking snakes.'
[RP]: Slesthas nods to himself. 'Meeting at North gate? Not getting caught?'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. North gate it is. Try to keep Isspt safe, eh? She glances out the window and heads out the back door.
[RP]: Slesthas pets Isspt on his head, and whispers to him, grinning evilly all the while. He stops when someone pounds on his gate.
[RP]: Slesthas counts to ten. 'One, three, five, two, four, seven, ten!' he mumbles, and then hollers 'Who the hell are you?'
[RP]: Slesthas clears his throat delicately, and runs down to fling open the doors. 'I thought I said no visitors till afternoon!'
[RP]: Hafwen scrambles up the side of the building and lightly runs across the roof. Even in the daytime, most people weren't inclined to look up.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'We're from the City Watch, sir. Sorry to disturb your...' The legionnaire's voice trails off at the sight of Isspt.
[RP]: Slesthas strokes Isspt's head. Isspt purrs contently. 'My...?' He prompts the pale man. 'Uh... your... sleep?'
[RP]: Hafwen gauges the distance between two buildings and jumps. She misses, and hits the ground cursing. She rolls with it then waits, crouched down, to see if anyone noticed. If they had, they weren't saying anything. Hafwen nods to herself, climbs up the side of the building and heads for the northern part of town.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He quickly regains his composure, coughing. 'We have a search warrant.' He holds up a piece of parchment, and while Slesthas peers at it, he continues speaking. 'We have reason to believe you are hiding two fugitives on the run.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The Nyissan's lips move as he finishes reading the parchment, and he stands there, staring at the legionnaire's face thoughtfully.
[RP]: (Slesthas): After a moment, the man coughs uncomfortably. 'Sir?'
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'What? Oh, sorry.' Slesthas taps his chin slyly. 'You're more than welcome to come into my house. Sorry for the... condition of the furnishings. I have only recently returned from my... extensive travels.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The Tolnedran looks relieved. 'Thank you for your cooperation, sir.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The legionnaires troop into the front yard nervously, eyes darting around for snakes. They jump when Slesthas claps his hands.
[RP]: Slesthas says 'Go on, search. Don't let me be a... an obstacle.' 'We were... wondering if your residence has any more snakes?' 'Oh, yes, of course. I love snakes.''
[RP]: (Slesthas): The captain blanches. 'Don't worry, they're tame and all.' 'Uh... whatever you say, sir,' he mumbles, trembling slightly.
[RP]: Slesthas nods sagely. 'Be careful of my python, though. He likes eating... he even ate a thief for me once. Very convenient.'
[RP]: Slesthas smiles broadly at the wide-eyed legionnaires. 'But that's a tale for... another day. I must return to my basement.'
[RP]: Slesthas shudders slightly as he looks up. 'I do hate the sun.' He stalks his way into the house. The Tolnedrans exchange long looks.
[RP]: Hafwen reaches the last house at the northern end of town. The gate looms ahead. She sits, perched on a roof, and waits.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Once in the house, he places Isspt in a hollow, specially designed to amplify sounds. Normally he uses this to speak to strangers, but today... He winks at the snake.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Then, he trots down the stairs into the basement, counting to thirty.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Above, Isspt begins hissing softly. The sound echoes eerily around the empty house, as the legionnaires cautiously step inside.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'ARGHHHHHnooooo bad snake badsnpammpppfffff...' Slesthas shrills at the top of his voice, and muffles his mouth with a hand to smother his laughter.
[RP]: (Slesthas): At the same time, Isspt hisses loudly, and spits.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Half the men faint, while the other half sprint out of the house as one man.
[RP]: (Slesthas): A moment later, the cellar door opens, and Slesthas' head peeks around it. 'Isspt?' he whispers, and hears a faint hissing and purring. 'Good.'
[RP]: Slesthas takes a few steps and stops. 'Ooohhh my head,' he moans.
[RP]: Slesthas bites his lip as he stares down at the unconscious men.
[RP]: Slesthas looks up at Isspt, and takes the snake down. 'What you think we should do be doing?'
[RP]: (Slesthas): Isspt flickers a tongue. 'Hm...'
[RP]: (Slesthas): Slesthas hums to himself, walking out of the house, trying his very best to block out the pain.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The men would wake up some time tomorrow, their clothes torn up and smothered in chicken blood... and the first thing they would see would be the words 'Beware...'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The legionnaires take no notice of an ordinary Nyissan walking down the streets, and fairly quickly, he arrives at the North gate.
[RP]: Slesthas peers around. 'Hafwen?' he calls softly.
[RP]: Slesthas sways slightly, and steadies himself with a hand on the wall. 'Hahaha...' he laughs dazedly, slumping against it.
[RP]: (Hafwen): If she hadn't turned, she wouldn't have seen him. Slesthas stands next to a wall, leaning on it, it appears. Hafwen leaps easily off the roof after making sure no one is watching. She hurries to his side. Slesthas...
[RP]: Slesthas stares at her blankly for a moment. 'You fell from the sky...'
[RP]: Slesthas pulls himself together. 'Uh... sorry.' He puts a hand to his forehead. 'Splitting headache... I've... dealt with the leg... leggies,' he smiles faintly.
[RP]: Hafwen nods. You sure you're ok? She glances over her shoulder, anxious to leave the city.
[RP]: Slesthas giggles. 'Yeah... I think I am.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. Okay, let's get out of here then. She turns, then stops and looks at him. Where's Isspt?
[RP]: (Slesthas): At the sound of his name, Isspt pokes his head out of Slesthas' pouch, hissing questioningly.
[RP]: Hafwen nods. Just checking. Hafwen pats the little snake on his head, then turns starts walking toward the gate.
[RP]: Slesthas pushes himself upright and follows the Tolnedran, blinking rapidly to try to focus.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Reaching the gate, Hafwen is surprised to see no guards. Not wanting to knock their good fortune, she hurries through the gate, looking over her shoulder to make sure Slesthas is still with her.
[RP]: Slesthas speeds up to catch up with the woman, feeling as though his head was wrapped in cotton wool and being pounded by a hammer.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Finally, they reach the forest. Hafwen looks back over her shoulder to Tol Borune, then spits in its direction. Not sad to be gone from there, she mutters. Hafwen pauses to wait for Slesthas to catch up.
[RP]: (Hafwen): A little ways into the woods, Hafwen stops again. They were far enough away from the city now, and she needs to get her bearings. She turns to Slesthas, not really paying attention, her eyes shifting from tree to bush to rock to tree, making sure truly alone.
[RP]: Slesthas mumbles 'Do you... think we can... sit down? My head... is... killing me...'
[RP]: Slesthas stumbles over a tree root, and almost lands on his face.
[RP]: Hafwen turns her head sharply, focusing on him for the first time since they'd left the city gates. Slesthas! She hurries to him, placing a hand on his shoulder. Are you alright?
[RP]: Slesthas nods almost dreamily. 'Yeah... it was fun... playing with those leggies... First I pretended the house... was full of... snakes! You should have... seen their faces.' He laughs, shaking off her hand. 'I'm fine.'
[RP]: Hafwen peers at him, her eyes narrowed. You're not fine. You're speaking like a normal person. Hafwen looks around and spots a small clearing surrounded by thick bushes. We'll sit there. She points, then heads in that direction.
[RP]: Slesthas nods, staggering towards the direction, turning his head towards her sluggishly. 'I... can speak like... this if I... want to,' he says a bit petulantly, then slumps face-down on the ground silently.
[RP]: Hafwen turns, about to speak, then curses loudly. Slesthas! She walks back to him, and crouches down next to him. Slesthas?
[RP]: (Slesthas): The Nyissan does not respond.
[RP]: Hafwen prods Slesthas' shoulder with her fingers. Sle..Slesthas? Her voice wavers. Dammit all, Slesthas. Don't do this now.
[RP]: (Slesthas): An annoyed hiss sounds under Slesthas.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Isspt wriggles out under the Nyissan with some difficulty, and butts at him with his head.
[RP]: (Slesthas): When he does not respond, Isspt spits, baring his fangs.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Still no response.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Relieved that the little snake is ok, Hafwen is nevertheless quite concerned about Slesthas. She waves her fingers at Isspt. Shoosh a second, Isspt.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Isspt butts at him again, tongue flicking in and out almost too quickly to be seen, and looks up at Hafwen.
[RP]: Hafwen nods at the snake. I know. I'll see what I can do. She reaches under Slesthas' shoulders and carefully turns him onto his back.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He flops onto his back limply.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Isspt hisses in frustration, choosing to slither onto a tree root.
[RP]: Hafwen rocks back on her heals, chewing on her lip. She is at a loss here. Slesthas was breathing, that much she can see. But not knowing what made him pass out, she isn't sure what to do about it.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The sun sets over the forest. Hafwen sighs and shifts uncomfortably, poking at the fire with a stick. She glances at Slesthas, her eyes narrowed, her bottom lip sore from chewing on it all day.
[RP]: Slesthas stirs, his eyelids fluttering as his fists clench around the rotting leaves. He moans.
[RP]: Hafwen lifts her head sharply. Slesthas? Hafwen crawls over to him and touches his shoulder lightly.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Isspt slithers off the tree root and circles around Slesthas' head.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Uhhhh...' he groans, releasing his two handfuls of leaves. His eyes slide open. 'Where...?'
[RP]: Hafwen breaths a sigh of relief. Welcome back. She tries to smile at him, her eyes shining. You had me worried, kid.
[RP]: Slesthas grimaces as another pang of pain hits him, but his head feels much clearer than he can remember for a long time. 'Oh... Issa... Not again.'
[RP]: Hafwen shifts her position again. Are you okay, Slesthas?
[RP]: Slesthas pulls himself onto his elbows. 'Haf... Hafwen?' He blinks rapidly. 'Yeah... I think so.' He shakes his head. 'Issa... my head's straight again.'
[RP]: Hafwen reaches to help him up. Your head's on straight? She looks at Isspt, then raises an eyebrow. Are you sure about that?
[RP]: Slesthas looks offended. 'Pretty... I is... I'm talking... more or less all right.'
[RP]: Hafwen shakes her head. That's actually what has me worried. You're using contractions, Slesthas. Reaching behind her, she picks up a waterskin and offers it to him.
[RP]: Slesthas picks up Isspt. 'Sorry about that, Isspt. Dunno what are... is wrong with me.'
[RP]: Slesthas accepts the skin, rubbing his head. 'Contractions?' He sets Isspt on the ground again, and downs some water.
[RP]: Hafwen shakes her head again. Never mind. She shifts again, leaning her back against a tree. She is exhausted. Reaching into the pouch at her side, her fingers close around the small vial of cloudy liquid.
[RP]: Slesthas watches her. 'Do you want to rest or something? Unless... you insissst on awake staying.'
[RP]: (Hafwen): Her eyes close briefly, and she shakes her head. I want to make sure you're okay first. She opens her eyes and stifles a yawn. Now her head hurts.
[RP]: Slesthas grimaces. 'If I don't getting another stonie to my head I should be fine. Besides, Isspt can watch.' He looks at her carefully. 'Sure you're the one who's all right?'
[RP]: Hafwen smiles at him again. I'm fine. She winks at him, then picks up her stick and pokes at the fire again. If your head still hurts, you should sleep again.
[RP]: Slesthas pats his pouch with a wry smile. 'Oh, I'll be fine. Plenty of painkillers and such.'
[RP]: Slesthas dries his hands on his pants, and pulls out his gloves. 'Either I should stop wearing gloves, or I should get thicker ones,' he sighs, wriggling a finger through one of the holes.
[RP]: Hafwen grins. I'm gonna get some more firewood. She picks herself up off the ground with some effort, then staggers off into the trees.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Some ways from the camp, the small vial finds its way from her pouch. She pulls the stopper out and shakes some of the cloudy liquid onto her tongue. It tastes bad, but as long as it does what she wants it to do, she doesn't care. About to restopper the vial, then changes her mind. She shakes a few more drops onto her tongue, then puts the vial away.
[RP]: Slesthas pats Isspt, who purrs. 'Glad I'm back? I'm glad I'm back.' His grin fades as he stares after Hafwen. 'I wonder what she's doing.'
[RP]: Slesthas stands and stretches, his red eyes gleaming. 'I wonder how the leggies is faring,' he murmurs, staring in the direction of Tol Borune.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Sticks gathered, she makes her way back to their small camp. She avoids getting too close to Slesthas, knowing he can tell when she's drugged.
[RP]: Slesthas smiles as the Tolnedran returns. 'I never did get to finishing the story?' he asks, seating himself comfortably on the ground. He plucks a ceramic vial from his pouch, and nods at it. 'For my headache...'
[RP]: Hafwen nods vaguely in his direction, the drugs already taking affect. Her brain fogs, then clears, then fogs again. She smiles briefly, then settles against a tree and closes her eyes.
[RP]: Slesthas smiles to himself. 'Falling asleep? I planteded Isspt into a hole in the wall... I seems to remember someone designing it, to... uh...'
[RP]: Slesthas gropes for a word. 'Make bigger? the sound, and I told the legs that I had a giant python.' He chuckles.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Her mind completely numb, she barely hears Slesthas talking. She nods again, a slow smile spreading across her face. Yes, this is why she went to Nyissa.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'So I started ssscreaming, like a ssnake was eating me...' He snickers. 'Like that will ever happen, and Isspt hisssed really loud. They ran out... or half of them did. The other half fainting.'
[RP]: Hafwen mumbles something incoherent in reply, her eyes still closed.
[RP]: Slesthas eyes the Tolnedran suspiciously. 'You are my mum?'
[RP]: Hafwen nods again, not really paying attention. Sure.
[RP]: Slesthas sighs to himself. 'Right, right.' He looks at Isspt. 'Mind watching both of us? Wake me if she uh... wandering off.' Isspt hisses.
[RP]: Slesthas snuggles down in his cloak, and quickly dozes off.





[RP]: (Hafwen): The nightmares slowly fade away. Hafwen forces her eyes open, squinting against the sun. Her head hurts, and she isn't sure at first where she is.
[RP]: Slesthas prods at the fire with a stick, then stirs the small pot with a wooden spatula. Inside, some leftover stew bubbles merrily.
[RP]: Slesthas licks at the spatula, wincing slightly as the hot stew burns his tongue, then sighs contently. 'Mmm...'
[RP]: Hafwen groans and rubs her eyes.
[RP]: Slesthas jumps, turning around. 'Ohhh uppie already?'
[RP]: Hafwen nods, yawning. I'm awake, anyway, she mumbles. She blinks slowly, her eyes trying hard to focus.
[RP]: Slesthas giggles softly. 'So want some stew?'
[RP]: (Hafwen): Stew? Hafwen looks confused. Oh yes. Stew. She nods and wanders over to the fire. Sure.
[RP]: Slesthas picks up a bowl and carefully tips some steaming stew into it. He offers it to Hafwen.
[RP]: Hafwen takes the bowl, thanking Slesthas. She sits carefully to avoid spilling it, then hungrily attacks the bowl. Is very good, she mumbles between bites.
[RP]: Slesthas giggles again. 'Me is... I hope so. Stewing stew for three days tends to do that.'
[RP]: (Hafwen): Her head comes up slowly as that bit of information slowly works it's way into her brain. Three days?
[RP]: Slesthas nods to himself. 'I was ateing it three days ago, then we ate it two days ago, then today.'
[RP]: Hafwen blinks again. Oh yes. Now I remember. She scratches her head and yawns. Offering her empty bowl to Slesthas, she looks at him questioningly. Got any more?
[RP]: Slesthas bobs his head, filling the bowl again. 'I jussst had some just now.' He pets Isspt on his head. 'He had his milkie too.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods and grins. That's good. She winks at the little snake and reaches for her bowl.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Pulling a tattered map from her satchel, Hafwen reads it carefully. Any preferences as to where we go next?
[RP]: Slesthas shrugs, wiping the pot and utensils clean. 'Anywhere, really. I... I don't think I'm wanted anywhere... yet.'
[RP]: Hafwen arches an eyebrow, but doesn't comment. Putting the map away, she stands again. Ok, we have a couple choices. She turns and looks at Slesthas. Do we want to avoid cities?
[RP]: Slesthas rubs at his skin, and shrugs. 'Me liking somewhere shady? I get burnt easily...'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. We'll head for Tol Honeth, then. The road will take us through the Forest of Vordue.
[RP]: Slesthas nods happily, stowing away everything. He peers at the fire. 'Uh... you know how to put out fire?'
[RP]: Hafwen nods. Just kick some dirt over it.
[RP]: Slesthas does as instructed, coughing as thick, billowing smoke rises from the extinguished fire.
[RP]: Hafwen laughs. Oh, and stand back so the smoke doesn't get you. She winks, an impish grin on her face.
[RP]: Slesthas stumbles backwards, waving a hand in front of himself. 'You should telling me that earlier!'
[RP]: Slesthas rubs at his watering eyes. 'Nasty, nasty girl!' he scolds Hafwen.
[RP]: Hafwen grins again. Yeah, my bad. Sorry about that. She winks again, still giggling.
[RP]: Slesthas scowls, muttering to himself.
[RP]: Hafwen pats Slesthas on the head. Shall we be off? Without waiting for an answer, Hafwen stretches one more time and starts walking slowly in the direction of the road that would take them to Tol Honeth.
[RP]: Slesthas nods to no one in particular, trotting after the Tolnedran.





[RP]: (Hafwen): It is wet. The sky is overcast, and Hafwen is miserable. Walking in the rain the last two days hasn't helped her disposition. Normally responsive to Slesthas' constant chatter, she is quiet, withdrawn. The southern gates of Tol Honeth loom ahead.
[RP]: Slesthas stifles a yawn and stretches. 'Ahhhh back to city again. People.' His red eyes glitter.
[RP]: Hafwen nods absently and pulls her cloak tighter around her.
[RP]: Slesthas tugs at his hood, muttering something under his breath. 'At least me still stained. Pigment good this time.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods again and looks gloomily at the gates. Let's find a tavern and some beer.
[RP]: Slesthas makes a face. 'Beer? Beer not nice. I still liking water. Clean water.'
[RP]: Hafwen turns slightly and looks at him. Yeah, water's good too. Her voice lacks the usual lightness and she seems distracted.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Slesthas bobs his head, continuing after Hafwen for a moment, before the words register in his mind. He stops. 'Wha...?'
[RP]: (Slesthas): His brows furrow. 'What you mean, water good. You always drinking beer, liking beer.'
[RP]: Hafwen shrugs, her eyes distant. Let's just find a tavern, eh? Isspt needs to be fed soon.
[RP]: Slesthas looks even more baffled. 'He just eating just now.'
[RP]: Hafwen nods again, not really paying attention.
[RP]: Slesthas stares at Hafwen. 'Is dreaming drug not good?' he mumbles to himself as he looks around the street. Tolnedrans pay no attention to them.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Her eyes downcast, Hafwen shuffles through the muddy streets. Her mind is still fogged from the effects of the drug, which she'd been taking almost constantly since they'd left Tol Borune.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He watches the Tolnedran walk straight past a tavern. 'Hafwen? Tavern here...'
[RP]: Hafwen blinks and looks up. Oh. Right. She shakes her head and rubs her eyes, trying to pull her brain out of the mire it seems to be stuck in.
[RP]: Slesthas follows her, grumbling to himself.
[RP]: (Hafwen): The tavern is fairly empty, much to Hafwen's delight. Nodding at a barmaid, she picks a table in a dark corner and sits.
[RP]: Slesthas stares at Hafwen and the corner table, and turns to the barmaid. 'Beer please? Maybe room too...' He pauses, not too sure how it should go.
[RP]: Slesthas adds 'I can pay.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The barmaid gives him a sharp look. 'I should hope so. Where are you sitting?' He points. 'Right.' She turns her back.
[RP]: (Slesthas): He hovers behind her, and when she turns around, she jumps. 'Sir, you can go to your seat now,' she says firmly, when she has recovered her composure. 'Oh. Okay.'
[RP]: Hafwen rubs her eyes again and yawns. Arching an eyebrow at Slesthas, she waits patiently for him to come over to the table.
[RP]: Slesthas has barely seated himself when someone approaches the table.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Slesthas, is it?' The not-quite-Tolnedran-looking Tolnedran pulls up a chair and plonks himself onto it. 'What goods do you have this time?'
[RP]: Slesthas blinks at the newcomer with bewilderment. 'Do I knowing you?' 'Well, I know you.' The man leans forward. 'You've got quite a reputation here, you know.'
[RP]: Hafwen sits back in her chair, idly toying with her dagger. She eyes the stranger carefully, but doesn't say anything.
[RP]: Slesthas says slowly 'Rep... pu... tation?'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man's eyes narrow. 'Maybe I've got the wrong man. They didn't tell me you were such a dolt.'
[RP]: Slesthas glares at the Tolnedran sullenly. 'I don't even know who you are, Tolnedrian.'
[RP]: Hafwen coughs lightly and straightens up.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The two men turn to look at Hafwen. 'New business partner, eh?' the man remarks.
[RP]: Hafwen carefully unsheaths her dagger and rises from her seat. Her cold eyes settle on the man, but still she says nothing.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man shrugs. 'Look, all I want is some information on your drugs. I need to know what range of products you offer.'
[RP]: Hafwen clenches her jaw. Sorry, you must have us mistaken with someone else. She glares at the man. If you don't mind, my friend and I would like some privacy.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man peers at Hafwen. 'Privacy?' His face breaks into a broad grin. 'Oh, you're lovers, are you?'
[RP]: Slesthas gapes at the man. 'Lov... lovers?' he stammers in shock.
[RP]: (Hafwen): That did it. Hafwen steps around the table and stands in front of the man. Though he was taller than her, faced him with a challenge in her eye. Would you care to repeat that? she asks in an even voice.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man rises smoothly from the chair, his hands going to his side. 'This has nothing to do with you,' he says coolly, 'Best stay out of it.' All the while, the Nyissan is just sitting there, stunned.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The barmaid sets down the tray of beers, and, oblivious to the tension in the air, walks away.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Hafwen's eyes narrow. I'm making it my business. Her voice is still calm. He's stated he doesn't know you, I've requested that you leave. I won't ask again.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The man grins, lifting both hands in the air. 'All right, all right.' He steps back.
[RP]: Slesthas flinches slightly, suddenly remembering something. 'Issa...' he curses, hands diving into his pouch.
[RP]: (Slesthas): At the same time, the man suddenly whips out an addersting. 'See this, woman? Know what this is?'
[RP]: Hafwen arches an eyebrow. Not impressed.
[RP]: (Slesthas): Grinning broadly, he flings it at the woman.
[RP]: Slesthas snarls 'Dagashi!'
[RP]: Hafwen steps to the side, her arm coming to protect her face. If she'd stayed where she was, it would have missed her. Instincts made her move, and as a result, the addersting imbeds itself into her forearm. Her jaw clenches with the pain, but her eyes remain steady.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The Dagashi turns to Slesthas, who has his garrote out. 'I believe that is mine. Care to come back? Not that you have a choice, of course.'
[RP]: Slesthas spits at the Dagashi. 'Take you and your elders to hell.'
[RP]: (Slesthas): The Dagashi arches an eyebrow, another addersting in his hand.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'What will?' the Dagashi chuckles.
[RP]: Slesthas replies casually 'The legionnaire behind you...' The Dagashi whirls around, to see a half-circle of spear heads at his throat.
[RP]: (Hafwen): Her jaw clenches tighter as she grabs ahold of the addersting in her arm. The sharp blade lets her pull it out easily. She holds it out to the man. I believe this is yours.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'I'll take that, ma'am, as evidence,' A legionnaire, who seems to be in command, takes the addersting. The Dagashi looks daggers at the two of them.
[RP]: (Slesthas): 'Goodbye, Dagashi.' Slesthas smiles sweetly.
[RP]: Hafwen grins and takes her seat, blood running from her arm to pool on the floor.
[RP]: Slesthas turns his attention to Hafwen's arm. 'Ah poison poison. You still feeling all right?'
[RP]: Hafwen nods then pitches forward as her eyes close and she passes out, the poison working its way quickly through her bloodstream.
[RP]: Slesthas rolls his eyes. 'Yeah right,' he mutters as he quickly digs out a vial. He shakes it with a quick flick of the wrist, and lets a few drop of the contents fall on the wound.
[RP]: Slesthas also tips some into the Tolnedran's mouth, humming to himself tunelessly all the while.
[RP]: (Slesthas): The barmaid timidly approaches the Nyissan. 'Sir? Is she all right?'
[RP]: Slesthas looks up and smiles. 'Yeah, yeah, she is all right.' He nods to himself.

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