msmoon | Chapter 29: Vicious Triangle (Reply)

Beware, for I am: blahbadeblahblah

Blah

Here’s the next chapter of the EQ Saga.

4-April-06

Title:

Vicious Triangle
Author: MSMoon
Warnings: Almost 10,000 words...you’ve been warned.
Feedback: As long as it's constructive ;)
Characters: MMC03, MMC14, MMC33, MMC45, & MMC46
Disclaimers: I own my own characters from EQ and nothing else. I would be somewhat upset if someone used my or anyone else's characters without my permission. So if you want to use them please ask.

I do not own EverQuest. I am poor. Suing me wouldn't really profit much. Since there so much in this chapter, I’d like to elaborate on the disclaimer. I don’t own Lucan D’lere, Cain Darkmoore, Tholius Quey, Valeron Dushire, or any other guild masters of Freeport. Neither do I own their guilds (ohh, the power…). All references to Freeport and Norrath are also not mine. They can all be found in the EverQuest Role-Playing Game book “Realms of Norrath: Freeport”. I’ve just taken liberties with them because...well the story wouldn’t be as interesting without them. Besides, it’s fun.

No horses were psychologically damaged during the making of this chapter...

Rated: PG

Author's Note: In celebration of the special 2 disc collector’s edition of The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (which, I've already preordered). Hope ya'll enjoy this lil’ story which will end up being really really big...just consider it part one in the Bijo Saga.

Once again, if you have characters that you don't mind me using, send me a full characters description (name, age, race, class, the way they look, act, weapons, clothes, and tics...generally anything you feel is relevant to the character). 'Cuz...if I don't know what your character's like it's hard to include them. And I'd hate the idea of misrepresenting your character. So send a full description and I’ll include them whenever I can. If I should use your character in any chapter of the story, I will send you a copy of the chapter before it is put to Because I don’t want to take liberties with your character and you disapprove.

Now that that’s over, enjoy!

Chapter 29

Bijo quietly walked through the streets of Freeport. The more she saw the degraded city the more she felt like weeping. Her eyes stopped on a small boy cloaked so that no one could see his face. His entire body seemed to shake from want of food. Bijo knelt by his side startling him slightly.

“Are you hungry?” she asked gently. The boy stared at her for a moment and then looked away. Bijo blinked in shocked confusion.

“The lady asked you a question, boy.” Bijo turned to the owner of the gruff voice, fully intending to assure him she could handle this on her own. Her words died as she recognized him. The knight from the day before...when had it been?

The boy looked at the warrior who’d obviously decided to become Bijo’s guardian angel and then looked back to Bijo.

“I’m starving, ma’am.” The boy said dejectedly. Bijo pulled out her pack.

“Would you like a sandwich?” she asked, pulling a rather thickly stuffed sandwich from her pack. The boy’s eyes widened and he looked from the sandwich to Bijo then back to the sandwich.

“...what do I have to do?” he asked. She smiled, extending it towards him.

“Nothing. Just take it.” The boy extended his own hands slowly, as if he was afraid the sandwich would disappear. Then he practically snatched the sandwich away from her, immediately tearing into it.

“Watch your manners, boy!” the Knight chided stepping forward. Bijo held up a hand with what could’ve been a motherly indulgent smile.

“It’s alright, see?” she wiggled her fingers. “No fingers missing.” She turned her attention back to the boy. “Though you should eat slower. No one will take that from you, and you don’t want to choke on it. Slow down and enjoy it.” The boy slowed down, but whether that was because he wanted to listen to Bijo or because of the glare he was getting from the Knight, who could truly tell? “There now, much better.” Bijo brought her largest back pack in front of her and rummaged through it. She eventually pulled out a canister of ice cold milk. “Here. Have a bit to wash it down.” The boy reached out and took the glass, more carefully this time, and took a few gulps.

“You’d best be thanking the lady, boy.” The knight said.

“Thank me?” Bijo asked. “For this little morsel?” Both the Knight and the boy looked at the sandwich, stuffed so full the boy was having trouble keeping it together. “Please! At my home, I cook splendid meals. This isn’t anything really.”

“Your house sounds nice...” the boy said. “...wish I had one...” he added none too subtly. The Knight chuckled.

“As do I.”

“Well...I can’t do much for you, Sir.” Bijo said to the Knight. “However, it is awfully lonesome in that big house all by myself...” Bijo snapped her fingers. “I’ve an idea. You can come and live with me.” She said to the boy. “But don’t think that means life will get easy.” She added. “In return for providing you with food, shelter, and a bed of your own, you’ll be required to help me keep my home up.” The boy looked at her skeptically.

“I...uh...I’ll have to think on it.”

“Think on it!” the knight blurted as though the boy were mad.

“That’s the mark of a wise man.” Bijo reminded. “When you find your answer, find me. I’m always coming through here around noon and sunset.” The boy nodded and began gathering up the remains of the sandwich. Bijo reached out and placed the sandwich in a handkerchief and wrapped it up. Then she placed the meal and the remainder of milk in the bag she’d pulled out. Then she handed the boy the bag. The boy stared at the bag for a while before taking it carefully and scuffling away silently.

“You know you’ll probably never see that boy again.” The Knight started. Bijo shrugged turning to face him.

“I’ve done all I can do. If he decides to live with me, I won’t be so lonely and if he doesn’t...well, at least I know he’s had one good meal. The rest of the decision making is his now.” Bijo said walking past him.

“On your way home?” The knight asked.

“Indeed I am.”

“May I escort you there?”

“There’s no need for you to go out of your way...”

“Please, M’lady. It would make me feel better to know you’re safe.”

Bijo smiled indulgently again. “If it means so much to you...” The Knight nodded and offered Bijo his arm. She took it allowing him to lead.

“I assume you live upon the Hill.” The Knight began.

“On the outskirts yes, quite close to the Temple of Marr.”

“I see. You know it’s dangerous walking through Dockside alone. Especially at this hour.” Bijo chortled.

“Sir, this is Freeport. It’s dangerous anywhere no matter what the hour.”

“I suppose...” Bijo could feel the Knight tense up slightly as they entered the Market district.

‘Warrior’s instinct perhaps.’ Bijo thought in admiration. ‘I wonder if someone’s watching us...’ She looked away from him to the streets; what she saw shocked her. There wasn’t a soul on the street that wasn’t watching them! She felt herself shrink slightly against him.

“Are you all right?” The Knight asked politely.

“A bit self conscious I suppose. I’ve never had so many people watching me...I hate being the center of attention...”

He smiled down at her. “Nothing to worry about. You know, I don’t believe you’ve ever told me your name.” The Knight said suddenly, obviously trying to put her more at ease. She smiled at the thought.

“I am Bijo Truelight, though you seem to have forgotten that you’ve not shared your name with me either.”

“So it would seem.” The Knight said simply looking away.

Bijo chuckled. “I believe this is the part where you tell me your name.”

The Knight shrugged. “Perhaps another time.”

“Ah, I see.” Bijo said slowly. “You just want me to keep referring to you as my guardian.” She saw a smug smirk turn upon his lips.

“If only. No, I confess, if you truly knew my name...” He paused and shook his head. Bijo waited patiently for him to finish.

“It’s simply that if you knew his name you’d no long want his company.” Bijo turned to see that the speaker was Warlord Cain Darkmoore. If the Knight escorting her had tensed up when they entered the Market district it had been nothing compared to his state now.

“Good evening, Lord Darkmoore. It’s a pleasure to see you away from the temple.” Bijo knew the guild master of the Steel Warriors only from his reputation and the loose alliance with the Knights of Truth. She saw him a few times with Grand Marshall Valeron Dushire.

Lord Darkmoore seemed to ignore her polite words, fixing her companion with a venomous glare. “Do you have any idea who you’re with?” He said at last. Bijo fought the urge to glare at him..was he trying to make her feel like a child?

Bijo shook her head. “No. We did meet yesterday, but I never did get his name.” Darkmoore smirked in a manner that certainly wasn’t humorous.

“This isn’t any of your affair, Darkmoore.” The Knight ground out evenly.

“Perhaps not directly, but I make a point of it to look after the High Priest’s pupils as he looks after mine. Were he here, I think he’d be very upset over this situation.”

“It is not what it seems.”

“Would someone please tell me what it seems like? Or do the two of you intend to glare at each other till one bursts into a pile of ashes?” Bijo asked.

Darkmoore smirked again. “The man you’re casually strolling around with is none other than Sir Lucan D’lere.” He announced. Bijo looked between them two of them and sighed.

“That explains a lot. No wonder you two don’t get on well.” The two men stared at her in wide-eyed shock. “What? Afraid I’d shriek and faint with fright? Sorry, but I’m not the flighty type. Now, if we’re done here, we can be on our way.” Sir Lucan stumbled a bit as Bijo pulled him away from Lord Darkmoore. She needed to separate these two as soon as possible. Honestly, sometimes dealing with men was about as bad as dealing with undisciplined five year-olds.

“Didn’t you hear what I said?” Darkmoore asked.

“Of course I heard you. Everyone on the street did as well. However, Sir Lucan offered to walk me home, and thanks to your rude interruption, dusk has all ready passed us.”

“After knowing who he is, how can you want him to know where you live?”

Bijo stopped where she was and turned on heel, marching up to stand toe-to-toe with this arrogant man. “All I see are a couple of Marr’s children gone astray.” Her eyes hardened as her tone became firmer. “Sir Lucan was right; this isn’t your affair. I’m not your pupil, and you’re not my guild master. If you were, you would know me better.” With that Bijo returned to Sir Lucan’s side.

“I will be telling the Grand Marshall and Master Quey about this.” Darkmoore announced evenly.

“You’ve no need.” Bijo said. “I’ll be telling him myself tomorrow morning.”

“You intend to tell your guild master at the temple about this?” Sir Lucan asked, seeming confused.

“Of course. I always tell Master Quey everything. He’s like a second father to me.” Bijo informed.

“You’re confusing, woman.” Lord Darkmoore muttered.

“I suppose it’s my fault that you’re confused.” Bijo said in a firm, almost angry tone. “Or perhaps your Warlord god has blinded you with arrogance and petty grudges. It must be so, otherwise why would you have such trouble recognizing unselfish love?” With that Bijo and Sir Lucan left a stunned Cain Darkmoore for the Hill. Once they were far enough away, Sir Lucan spoke.

“What did you mean by unselfish love?” He asked uncertainly.

“I told you before.” Bijo reminded. “I’m not called to be anyone’s judge. My purpose is simply to love those who need me. I don’t intend to say anything you’ve said to me to anyone else as it’s only for my ears, and I intend to keep anything I hear at the temple in confidence. It’s not as though my motives were deceitful or that I’m profiting from this friendship. I’m merely offering it.”

“And just like the street urchins, it’s my choice whether or not to take it.” He said nodding.

Bijo smiled. “At least you have a choice.” She reminded. “This is my home.” She said pointing to the doorway. “I’d invite you inside, but—”

“I understand.” He said with a smile. “It wouldn’t do to be keeping such company at this time of the evening...it might cast more doubts your way.”

“Master Quey knows and has faith in me. I doubt he’d behave the way Lord Darkmoore did.” Bijo said, still mystified by the Warlord’s behavior.

“Thank you anyway.”

“Goodnight, Sir Lucan.”

“Goodnight, Lady Truelight.” He said, inclining his head in a slight bow. Bijo quietly shut the door and released a heavy sigh. What type of mess had she gone and jumped into?

Bijo entered the temple of Marr an hour after sun rise. As usual, she took her time to enjoy the splendor of the day and the temple. She admired the flower beds as she passed through the courtyards. Breathed deeply upon entering the library. She found she actually enjoyed the small of all these leather bound books, even if they were old. Not five minutes after she’d entered the temple she was approached by one of the temple’s younger apprentices.

“The High Priest wishes to see you right away.” She announced. Bijo nodded and headed for the meditation area she knew Master Quey would be in. She took a seat quietly behind him.

“Good to see you’re still with us.” Master Quey said.

“I’m sorry if I disturbed you.”

She heard his gentle chuckle. “When one in is a constant state of prayer, one needs interruptions from time to time.” He said as he turned to face her. “Your life seems to be becoming quiet adventurous.”

“Master?” Bijo asked, her smile fading in her confusion.

“Oh? Haven’t you heard the stories?” Bijo shook her head. “It seems you’re going to betray the temple to Sir Lucan D’lere and his Militia.” Master Quey said amused. Bijo, on the other hand, was somewhat less than amused.

“What! Ohh! That man!” She yelled jumping to her feet, beginning to rampage back and forth. Master Quey outright laughed at her reaction. “How can you take this so lightly, Master? That insufferable Warlord is trying it discredit my reputation and trust with you!”

“It is not the claim, my child, but how that claim was made.”

“What do you mean?”

“Last night Lord Darkmoore came in here chomping at the bit, just as you are. And he most agitatedly told us of your willingly being with Sir Lucan.” Bijo rolled her eyes.

“If he was as vocal as he’d been yesterday, then I don’t doubt the rumors have spread around the entire temple.” Bijo muttered.

“Once he’d left, Lord Valeron remarked that he’d never seen Lord Darkmoore worked up so.” He paused motioning for her to take her seat again, and she did. “And then I tell you this, and I see you worked up so...like you’ve never been before.”

Bijo sighed. “I am sorry, Master. It seems I’ve more to learn in the way of patients and tolerance than I’d thought.”

“And it seems Lord Darkmoore is certainly willing to give you training for it.” He announced with a smirk.

Bijo smiled. “I still don’t see what amused you so.”

“Your reaction to each other.” Bijo blinked still confused. “You’ve seen Lord Darkmoore around haven’t you?” Bijo nodded. “But only recently has he taken interest in not only the Paladins but the Clerics of Marr as well.”

“Such an alliance would be good for our order.” Bijo thought out loud then winced. “And then I come along and aggravate him.”

“Well, yes, I suppose the alliance would be good; and true, your behavior probably didn’t help in any way, but that’s not what I was getting to.” Bijo shut her mouth firmly and resolved to let him continue. “Did you ever wonder why he’s suddenly so interested in our order?”

“Who knows why men do the things they do?”

“Indeed.” Master Quey nodded. “Perhaps a bit of hinting will shed the right type of light on this subject. But first, my dear, you must know that men are nowhere near as strong as they seem.” Bijo nodded. “All right. Knowing that let’s take the scene yesterday and put it into a different context. Perhaps when Lord Darkmoore saw you walking with Sir Lucan, he didn’t simply see a Cleric with the head of the Militia. Perhaps he saw you with a man. A man he knows is an enemy of our order and no doubt a personal rival of his own. And you were walking arm in arm...not to mention that declaration of love you threw at him...”

“But why am I so important? He’s only seen me less than a handful of times. I doubt he even knows my name.”

“Ah, but he does know your name. Your full name to boot. And that handful of times he’s seen you has been most recently and quiet frequent.”

“I still don’t understand why I’m so important to the state of Freeport and the Steel Warriors.”

“Perhaps you’re not important to Freeport or the Steel Warriors. Perhaps you’re important to Lord Darkmoore.”

Bijo’s brow furrowed in confusion. “My father didn’t have any connections to the Steel Warriors that I know of...”

Master Quey shook his head. “Once again, you’re thinking too large. It’s not your father, it’s not our order, it’s not the militia, it’s not Freeport, or the Steel Warriors. It’s you. That is where his interests lie.” Bijo’s mouth hung open for quite some time as her mind processed what her master had just said. Her mouth worked a few times, but still only strangled sounds came out. Master Quey began to chuckle again.

“N-no...You’re not suggesting...”

“It does put a bit more sense into his behavior.” Master Quey reasoned. “Do you remember when I introduced the two of you?”

“Yes, it was only a few nights ago.”

“Actually it may’ve been more than a week ago...” Master Quey corrected with a smirk. He knew well that Bijo had trouble remembering exact dates.

“Oh...well, Anyway...You and I had just met up after I’d spent too much time in our library, and it was dark outside so you decided to walk me home...We bumped into Grand Marshall Valeron while he was walking with Lord Darkmoore...”

“And the moment you were in your home, he wanted to know exactly who you were...the next day he came to me offering friendship. He’s since stopped by regularly, never for a particular reason, and always asking about you...” Master Quey smiled. “As indirectly as possible.”

Bijo’s voice now took on a high pitch she’d never even heard before. “But...B-but I...”

“Now, child, calm yourself. I’m not telling you this as an ultimatum...I’m simply trying to show you his feelings. If you know how he feels, you may be able to prevent future disputes.”

“Things are becoming so confusing lately.” Bijo said wearily.

“How so, child?”

“My fears for my sister have escalated recently...”

“Young Idlewild? We’ve always prayed she’d see the light...”

“Yes. And then the issue with my cousin—” her voice cracked with the emotion, and Master Quey nodded sympathetically to spare her from going on. “And now this dispute between Sir Lucan and Lord Darkmoore, and me being the cause of it.” Bijo shook her head near tears. “I just never meant to be the source of such trouble...”

“Oh, now, my dear, you’re not trouble.” Master Quey soothed. “You’re motives are completely pure.”

“You don’t even know my motives.” Bijo reminded.

“No. But I know you. To you, Sir Lucan is just like every other man who’s lost his way. And you probably only meant to show him the goddess’s love through your own actions.”

Bijo nodded. “I never meant to offend Lord Darkmoore...I had no idea...”

“That he would even care.” Master Quey nodded.

“But I can’t choose between the two if Sir Lucan has done nothing wrong with my sight that can be proven...I’m not called to be anyone’s judge.”

Master Quey nodded. “Learn from what you’ve experienced, dear. But remember to move on.”

Bijo nodded.

Bijo sighed as she walked through Dockside once again. She hadn’t seen hide nor hair of Sir Lucan since he walked her home. She suspected Lord Darkmoore had something to do with that. Perhaps it was time she had a talk with Lord Darkmoore. She was an adult after all, and as such was perfectly capable of making her own decisions. Feelings or no, he should know her motives, and if she explained it he might not be as upset.

She made her way over to the Warriors guild —a beautiful, marble building near Freeport’s West entrance called the Bunker—and began searching for him. She found him going over basic form with a few beginners. She almost shrieked when she felt something soft, fuzzy and slightly moist rub against her neck. She relaxed when she saw it was just a horse. Though why a horse had been tied up out here, she did not know. She began rubbing its nose and ears to pass the time and eventually her entire attention was wrapped up in the animal.

“That’s Terran.” Lord Darkmoore’s deep voice startled her and she jumped slightly clinging to the horses snout to steady herself. She released a breath as she turned to face him. Great Marr, when had she turned into such a silly mouse? Perhaps it had something to do with all those closest to her up and abandoning her without warning. She sighed and pushed that thought train back.

“You startled me.” She announced needlessly.

“Really?” He asked somewhat sarcastically, noting her state had been quite obvious.

“Lord Darkmoore, I’ve been meaning to talk to you about—”

“Don’t bother.”

“...I beg your pardon?”

“You’ve probably come to apologize, and I—“

“I would not apologize to you if you were Mithaniel Marr himself...which you are obviously not.” She said, neither venomously nor sarcastically; it was a simple statement. She did have to smile at his chagrin expression. “As much as I enjoy these verbal barbs we’ve begun regularly throwing at each other, I actually have a purpose in coming. You see, Master Quey voiced a concern for my walking with Sir Lucan through the Dock and Market districts. I explained to him, as I’m explaining to you, that there is no relationship between he and I; Sir Lucan simply voiced a concern for my safety, and insisted upon walking me home. I’d only met him the day before, and he never told me his name.”

“So...you honestly had no idea who you were with?” Lord Darkmoore asked perplexed.

“I did ask him for his name while we were walking, and he grew uncomfortable...I was content to go on not knowing if that was what he preferred.”

“...So, you were allowing a total stranger to walk you home? By Zek, woman, do you have any idea how dangerous that is?”

“Oh please! Sir Lucan was only voicing concern for my safety, which is more than anyone else has done.”

“I believe the concern with D’lere was a concern for your safety.”

“I suppose that’s how you warriors do things; complaining about what bothers you.”

“And what do you suggest I do?”

“In the words of my father, ‘If you don’t like how the job’s bein’ done, you do it.’” There was a very long pause as Lord Darkmoore contemplated this. He folded his arms and began scratching his chin, making noises that resembled ‘Uh huh’ and ‘oh I see’ in common speech.

“So, what you’re saying is...since I don’t like the prospect of Sir Lucan protecting you, I should protect you.” Bijo blinked as she re-thought her words.

‘Is that what I said?’ she wondered momentarily.

“...No. I—”

“That’s what you said.” He announced.

“That’s not what I meant.”

“Oh? Well, what did you mean?”

“...Quit complaining unless you yourself are willing to do something to fix the problem...” she paraphrased.

“Well, as I see it the problem is Sir Lucan D’lere is walking around with you on his arm. So, if the problem is your safety and protection then the only thing to do is protect you myself.”

“...But Sir Lucan hasn’t done anything wrong.” When Bijo saw the look of shocked anger cross Lord Darkmoore’s face she realized she’d choose her words poorly. “I mean, in walking me to my home...He’s only seeing to my safety.”

Lord Darkmoore shook his head. “Well, perhaps, but I don’t see Sir Lucan’s interest in you as a good thing.”

“But it is!” He looked at her as if she’d lost her mind. “Don’t you see? In showing a desire to protect me, Sir Lucan is doing something he hasn’t done in years. He’s showing concern for someone other than himself.”

“I don’t believe he’s concerned for your good.”

“Oh yes! You think he’s just using me as a tool to over throw the Clerics and Paladins. How brilliant of him to use the least of their own order against them.”

“That and other things...” he murmured mysteriously.

Bijo scowled momentarily. “What other things?”

“If you don’t know, I’m not about to stick my foot in my mouth trying to explain it.”

Bijo gave a long-suffering sigh. “We have a serious problem with our communication, you and I.”

“Quite.” Bijo made a face as the horse behind her began nibbling at her hair.

“My hair is not hay.” She announced. Lord Darkmoore gave her a strange look till she motioned to the horse.

“...He probably just likes the smell and feel of it...” he said.

“Indeed. He’s only been nibbling on my neck half the after noon.”

“...Damned lucky animal.” The mutter caught her quite off guard and all she could really do was stare at Lord Darkmoore in astonishment. He grinned boyishly and shrugged.

“...Do all men view woman as a potential conquest?” She asked. She wasn’t accusing or irritated, merely curious. He chuckled a bit nervously.

“No. Your Master Quey obviously does not. However, I find a certain type of woman does tend to appeal to me.” A moment of clarity hit Bijo and the words were out of her mouth before she’d thought them over.

“Is that what bothers you so much abut my being with Sir Lucan? You think I appeal to him?” A look passed over Lord Darkmoore’s face as if he’d swallowed something he rather would’ve spit out.

“The idea that he could defile something so pure puts quite a bitter taste in my mouth.” Bijo felt her cheeks burn in a blush. She tried to hide it by nuzzling her cheek against Teran’s snout.

“I hate to disillusion you, but I am not ‘so pure’. I have many faults. That’s why I don’t judge people...if you’re going to see the world in back and white, you must first take a good long look at yourself to see you possess no shades of gray.” She sighed. “I’ve got a long way to go.” Lord Darkmoore surprised her by nodding.

“We all do.” He admitted. Finally! Something they agreed on.

“I should be heading home...” she said as she noticed the sun’s position.

“I’ll walk you home.”

Bijo grinned. “Wouldn’t that seem inappropriate?” She teased. At first he shook his head but he pretended to think.

“Well then, how about I ride you home?”

Bijo stared at him, unable to actually grasp what he was asking. “…I beg your pardon?”

“On the horse? You do want to ride him don’t you?” he said motioning to her quadruped admirer. Bijo suddenly felt a wave of insecurity.

“But...but I can’t ride...” she said eyeing her boots timidly.

“Then, I’ll teach you.”

“Really?” she asked, the beginnings of a smile forming on her lips. She’d secretly always wanted to learn how to ride.

He nodded. “Of course. And if you’re serious about learning we can set up riding lessons through the week.”

“That would be wonderful!”

“Alright then; it’s set. Let me show you how to mount.” He brought the horse around so that its right side was against the building. “It’s customary to mount from the left side. And normally you put the reins on the horn, then cover them with one hand, and put the other hand on the back of the seat. Usually you just put your foot in the stirrup and swing-er over, but since this is your first time, I’ll assist you up.” True to his word, he hunched down and made a step for her with both hands. She put her foot carefully in his hands and he helped to hoist her up.

“The stirrups are a little long...” she commented. They hung below her feet and she couldn’t really get her feet into them.

“That’s ok, they’re adjustable. Just put your legs forward so I can...” he trailed off staring at the stirrups then up at her.

“What?” She asked.

“...Do you trust me?”

There was a pause before Bijo replied. “...Yes.”

Lord Darkmoore smiled, nodding. “Good to see you thinking about that first.” He said with a grin. And before she could reply, he’d put his foot in the stirrup and mounted up. There was room enough so that it wasn’t uncomfortable, but even so, Bijo could feel all the muscles in his body as he moved. Her momentary shock had caused a lapse in her ability to speak properly.

“...Are you sure the horse can support us both?” she asked nervously.

“Of course. And this way, it’ll be easier to teach you the basics.” She could hear the grin in his voice without having to look at him. He proceeded to explain the proper sitting position and went on to explain the reins. “Now, you can hold them with both hands – one in each – but I prefer using only one. Besides it frees up the other hand so that it can be used for other purposes. Such as...” she felt said other hand slide securely across her waste. “...making sure you’re safe.”

“I am absolutely sure this is inappropriate...”

“Well, one inappropriate can cancel out another.”

“Or it’ll just make me look easy.”

“You worry too much.”

“Oh, so it’s ok to be inappropriate with you but not Sir Lucan?” Bijo tried.

“I have a respectable reputation; no one knows where the inappropriate with him would lead to.” And as if that finalized the conversation, Lord Darkmoore pressed his heels in and the horse began walking. Bijo sighed and slumped slightly. This confounded man really was hard to predict.

“You will be the one taking responsibility for this.” She announced.

“Of course. It was my idea.”

“Hmph. I’m sure if I say that to Master Quey he’ll understand.” Bijo grumbled sarcastically. She was becoming a bit better at sarcasm...before long she’d be just like Idlewild...perish the thought.

“Honestly, woman, you worry too much and over the wrong things no less.”

“My name, Lord Darkmoore, is Bijo Truelight, not woman. And whether you choose to believe it or not, I will be the one reprimanded for this.”

“If it even comes up, you mean. And if it does, I will take full responsibility. The way I see it, this is a very good idea. I’m seeing to your safety and teaching you the basics of riding. Therefore, you, Lady Truelight, are worrying overly much.” Bijo sighed again.

“Impossible man.” She murmured.

“We’ve already gone over the name issue, Bijo.” He murmured in her ear. “Although in our current situation you could get away with calling me Cain.” His warm breath tickled her neck slightly and all at once, Bijo tensed a little, realizing their position, his proximity, and she suddenly became extremely aware of his arm around her waste. What had she gotten herself into now?

“I suppose you say that to all the ladies who weasel you into riding lessons.” She bit out nervously. He backed off slightly and she released a breath she didn’t know she was holding.

“No.” He said began quietly. “Just one...who seems to have hair that feels and smells incredible.” And Bijo reached another level on the tension meter. But even so, Master Quey’s words echoed in her mind. They had spoken much on the issue and it always came back to Lord Darkmoore’s feelings.

“Bijo dear, it is quite likely that Lord Darkmoore is more concerned over you than he’s willing to let on and is hiding it behind his gruff exterior.”

“I don’t understand why he’d be concerned over me, and why he feels the need to hide it. I don’t understand why he doesn’t just say these things to me plainly.” Bijo had said confused. Master Quey had chuckled indulgently.

“My dear, not everyone is as enlightened as we are here. Not everyone realizes that truth is a great part of valor...he’s trying to communicate with you the only way he knows.” There was a pause as Bijo thought about that. “The only way you will ever be able to understand all this is if you understand Lord Darkmoore’s feelings on the matter...”

That had been the end of the conversation. But certainly, Lord Darkmoore couldn’t be jealous of Sir Lucan...He couldn’t be interested in her; he didn’t even know her! And besides all that, who was she among such people? She was just a simple Cleric of Erollisi Marr. Certainly Warlord Cain Darkmoore, leader of the Warrior’s Guild of Freeport, had more important things to occupy his time.

“Lady Bijo?” Bijo blinked back to the present.

“I’m sorry?”

“I was wondering if you had enough to weave a shirt for me...” Bijo looked over her shoulder at him confused. “Wool that is. You’re mind was far off gathering wool...” Bijo chuckled at the joke, shaking her head.

“I was only thinking.”

“What about?” he inquired.

“...It doesn’t matter.”

“It does. What about?” His tone had softened slightly, making the question more personal in a way. It also bared a gentleness she hadn’t heard before...he wasn’t teasing, or bickering with her now. He was just asking with a general interest.

“...how foolish I am.”

“You aren’t foolish. Why do you say that?”

“I suppose because I thought that walking with Sir Lucan wouldn’t cause any trouble...that no one would really care. I guess I just assumed it would only affect me...” This time she felt him tense slightly.

“I suppose it was arrogant of me to stick my nose in...” he admitted. Bijo smiled. Why was it so hard for men to admit that they might be at fault?

“You were only concerned for me...though your manner of approach could’ve been better.” She sighed and thought out what she would say next. “I’m not the best fighter in the world...but I can become quite testy when I feel I can aid someone who’s being wronged...”

“You aren’t weak, Bijo...” Bijo simply shrugged. He’d learn eventually that she was hard on herself for a reason. “You know, you have a true horse-man’s seat. Or in this case, horse-woman’s seat.”

“...Why do you say that?”

“Well, this entire time, even while you were day dreaming, you’ve been sitting upright and moving with the horse. Would you like to try out the reins?”

“Really?” Bijo asked with child-like delight.

“Of course. It will make it easier to get to your house if you can guide the horse yourself.” As Bijo looked over her shoulder at him, she was a bit unnerved by his grin...It was then she began to wonder...hadn’t Master Quey said that Lord Darkmoore had been with them when they’d escorted her home once? If that was true, then he should know the way to her house.

“I thought you knew the way to my house...”

“Do I?”

“Weren’t you with Master Quey when he escorted me home not but two weeks ago?” Bijo asked slightly suspicious. She knew the answer to that already, but his reply would be what tipped the scales. He chortled slightly and shook his head.

“I’m afraid you have just learned another one of my dreadful secrets, M’lady. I have a terrible memory, and that was some time ago. I’m uncertain that I remember the way.” He said innocently. Too innocently.

“Uh huh...” Bijo drawled out uncertainly. What was he up to now?

“Oh, seriously now, it will be good practice for you.” She couldn’t argue with that. She relaxed a bit when he halted the horse and the arm around her waste came forward to direct her hands. He showed her the proper grip and explained the different signals to her.

“Now, do you understand?” He asked her.

Bijo went over a mental check-list and nodded carefully. “I think so.”

“Good. I’ll just be back here relaxing if you need me.” And to Bijo’s horror, both arms slipped snugly around her waste as Lord Darkmoore half embraced her, his chin resting gently against the back of her shoulder.

“You...are one crafty, conniving, sneaky... man.” she announced.

“What?” he announced innocently. “I’m just making sure I don’t fall off.” Bijo shook her head.

“Men are so incorrigible.” She muttered, squeezing the horse with her legs brusquely. Teran semi-lurched forward as his walking pace sped up slightly, but he didn’t exactly enter a trot.

“Honestly, Lady Bijo, you need to relax more. You’ll upset the horse if you’re too tense.”

“This horse wouldn’t be upset by a tsunami.” She felt as well as heard his chuckling.

“Perhaps.” He said, leaning forward slightly to rest his chin fully on her shoulder.

Bijo seemed to only be concerned with directing the horse, but inside she felt almost sick. This could not possibly be seemly. Should she reprimand him for his behavior? But once again, she was just a simple Cleric! Who was she to reprimand him? But only yesterday he was accusing her of having improper relations with Sir Lucan when he was only walking her home, and now anyone on the streets who saw them would no doubt think the same of them. She sighed heavily berating herself for her lack of knowledge. But there were no classes or lessons on this. The only way to gain knowledge was through experience...and Bijo had no experience in this area. Even the well-mannered men who served at the temple baffled her at times.

“Lady Bijo?”

“Yes?”

“You’re awfully quiet...”

“...I’m wool-gathering.”

“Indeed...care to share?”

“No.”

“Come now, Bijo, what’s bothering you?”

“You’ll laugh at me.”

“I wouldn’t.” Bijo thought she’d never been happier to see her own home, small and plain though it was.

“It doesn’t matter. We’re here.” She announced as the horse stopped by her door. She heard him sigh as he dismounted.

“I know it’s unusual, but since you can’t really reach the stirrups, swing your other leg forward and over the horse’s head and I’ll help you down.” Bijo did so, only to feel worse when Lord Darkmoore’s hands fastened onto her hips so that he could ease her down. The ultimate down-side was that he refused to release her... Now she found herself between Lord Darkmoore and the horse. “Now...what’s bothering you?” Bijo looked away, unable to bear his gaze. It was almost as if he could see her entirely whether she wanted him to or not. It made her feel insecure...naked almost. Her stomach flip-flopped and her chest constricted at the very thought.

“Please, let go, Lord—”

“Cain.” He insisted.

She sighed and peeked up at him, feeling like a naughty child. “Please let go, Cain...”

He sighed and released her, but he didn’t step back. “I’m not letting this go, Bijo. Something’s really bothering you, and I would like to know what it is.” She dared to look up at him and swallowed hard.

“Well, so would I.” She said before storming past him and into her own house. She shut the door and leaned back against it with a sigh. What was wrong with her?

Bijo swallowed hard as she headed towards the other side of Freeport. Her usual habits kept her towards the east side of Freeport, but after what had happened yesterday, she felt drawn back to the Bunker. The Bunker was not too far from the arena, and Bijo hated the arena...but it hadn’t stopped her from going yesterday...and she still felt compelled to work things out with Cain after her abrupt behavior yesterday.

She found a man (high-ranking Warrior by his looks) standing just outside the Bunker. “Excuse me?” she asked, sounding terribly timid. “Could you tell me where I could find Lord Darkmoore?”

The man eyed her and nodded. “He’s over at the forge just outside the stables. Don’t expect to get much out of him, though. He’s been working since sunup like a man possessed.”

Bijo nodded and smiled. “Thank you.” Maybe it wasn’t a good time...but she hated putting things off. Swallowing her anxiety, Bijo made for the stables. The rhythmic clang of iron against iron signaled exactly where he was. As he did seem quite busy, Bijo stood by Teran who was tied up to the hitching post outside. The horse seemed surprised yet pleased to see her.

Absently petting Teran in greeting, Bijo couldn’t help but be slightly fascinated by the fluid movements of Cain’s muscles as he swung the heavy hammer against the blade and anvil. He was bared from the waste up, a slick sheen of sweat covering his torso, proving he had indeed been busy for quite some time. He looked slightly overheated as well.

He eyed the blade and nodded before sticking it a barrel full of water to cool it. Bijo couldn’t help but notice his accelerated breathing. She went through her backpack and pulled out a cooled container of water. She offered it to him, and he took it, only noticing the water, not the one giving it to him.

“Thank you.” He murmured after taking a long drink. He didn’t notice her till he went to hand the water back. “...Bijo?” he said questioningly.

“...Lord Darkmoore.” She said looking at the ground. He sighed and eyed her cautiously.

“I didn’t think I’d see you today...why are you here?”

“I came to apologize...” she said at last. He stared at her incredulously. “I had no right to be so rude to you...”

“Bijo...if anyone should be apologizing, it should be me. Have you spoken with Master Quey this morning?”

Bijo shook her head feeling guilty all over again. “I’ve been very busy this morning...”

“Well, he damn-near burned my ears off last night.”

Bijo cocked her head to the side in astonishment. Her mouth worked soundlessly before her brain could command her vocal cords. “But...but what is he upset with you for?”

“I received the most heated lecture concerning my ‘rakish behavior’.”

“Your behavior?”

“Bijo, I told you, I’m the one who was responsible.” She shook her head and sighed. “Everyone knows you; they know how kind and pure you are...they all understand that if anything happened that seemed inappropriate, it was not your idea.”

“Oh...”

“So...” he began trying to appear unconcerned. “You still want those riding lessons?”

She smiled and pointed at him as if he were a naughty child. “No funny business.”

“Of course not. I don’t know if my ears could withstand another lecture.”

Tiaret was dreaming. Not so much a dream, but some strange vision that had taken her sleeping mind three nights now.

In this mysterious vision, she saw the sun blazing own against the desert. Through the desert ran a small, brown coyote. It was leaner than other coyotes she’d seen, and thus it challenged itself more so that it could compete with the larger predators that shared it’s territory. The brown coyote was female and small in size, but it’s size gave it an advantage of great spread. She ran across the desert, outrunning any hare, wolf, or puma it happened upon.

Then, one evening, the coyote discovered a large burrow beneath the great rocks that marked the borders of the desert. Nose and ears twitching, the coyote entered the darkened burrow. Sounds of other canine creatures floated to the coyote’s ears as she passed through the burrow.

On the other side, the coyote was shocked to find a land as barren and perilous as he own, but this land was covered in snow. The coyote ventured forth, but couldn’t find her way back! Every time she sniffed the wind her nose went numb. Finally, the little brown coyote collapsed from the cold.

White-furred wolves approached and stared at the fallen coyote. They didn’t growl or bear their teeth, but their body language made it evident that they didn’t like the coyote being there. And, while none stepped forward to claim her life, they made it clear she didn’t belong and they didn’t want her there. They certainly seemed willing to let nature do what it willed with her.

Then, the wolves looked up and parted, allowing a greater animal leeway. A great male polar bear lumbered forward. His ice-blue eyes surveyed the wolves and the coyote. At his steely glare, the wolves slunk away. The massive beast took the coyote in his mouth and carried her to his lair.

Tiaret always felt a sense of dread and fear. Surely this great beast would make a meal of the little coyote. But the polar bear laid the coyote down at the far side of his dean, and lay down next to her, blocking the wind. The polar bear’s warmth soon brought the little coyote around.

Upon waking, the little coyote received a bath and a meal the polar bear had hunted. After a bit of tentative uneasiness, the little coyote and polar bear became fast friends. They did all things together, helping one another for the pleasure of helping.

But when the coyote was strong enough, it returned to the desert. After a time had passed, it was surprised to see the polar bear. The other predators thought it strange, but they didn’t dare convey that directly.

The entire dream had always been feelings and images; but in the end, Tiaret heard the polar bear as if it were speaking to the coyote...

“I won’t leave you, and I won’t fail you.”

Tiaret woke once again in the wilderness. Coagin was guarding the fire. She rose and grabbed her hair brush.

“You alright?” Coagin asked as she approached. So, he had noticed her heavy breaths...

She nodded, brushing her hair into three straight sections. “I’m fine...it’s just this dream.” Coagin nodded in understanding. He was the only one she had confided in when it came to her visions.

“It is a peculiar situation.”

“How soon till sun rise?” Tiaret asked, not really wanting to discuss it.

“Not long. Why?”

Tiaret grunted as she adjusted her braid tightly. “I was hoping we might get a chance to wash.” At Coagin’s grin she continued. “My hair is becoming unmanageable. I need to wash it.”

“We’ll stop this afternoon before we make camp tonight...by then we’ll have reached the Karanas. It’ll be cooler at nights there.”

Tiaret nodded. “Acceptable.” She said. “Have the others complained much?”

“No, actually. Sometimes Aiineko seems to be wilting, but she just continues on. Eurekain has been behaving as if nothing bothers her at all.”

“She’s probably too excited about the prospect of seeing Idlewild...”

Coagin nodded. “Is she always so goal-oriented?”

“She’s fiercely protective of loved ones...” Tiaret shrugged. “Why?”

Coagin turned back to the fire. “It’s an admirable trait...even in a caster.”

Tiaret raised an eyebrow in question. “Admirable how?”

He grinned and shook his head. “Never mind.”

Tiaret grunted again. “‘Never mind’ my ass.”

“It’s nothing.”

“Well it’d better be. This is a mercy mission, and I’m not on it to play chaperone.”

“No one’s saying you have to.”

“If you’re ‘admirable’ is the type of admirable I’m thinking, then I’ll have to.” Tiaret said crossing her arms tightly over her chest. “Besides, if someone doesn’t, her dad’d kill you.”

Coagin chuckled lightly shaking his head. “I assure you, old friend, I’ve no hidden agenda on this trip of ours. Although I’m beginning to worry about you.”

“You don’t have to.”

“You rarely have repetitive visions for no reason. And ones that bother you this much...well...” he let that sentence hang.

“I’ll handle it.” Tiaret said looking away, and Coagin dropped the subject. “D’you hear something?” She asked quietly. His eyes scanned the brush around them before he nodded. It sounded like someone was approaching them.

“Good morning.” Aiineko called as she drew nearer, the two monks releasing a breath.

“Where’ve you been?” Tiaret asked.

“Getting water.” She said motioning to the four canteens she had slung about her. “I figured the sooner we boil this, the sooner we can head out.” Something in the way she was behaving was slightly off...Aiineko always seemed so cheerful, even bubbly to a certain degree. She almost seemed depressed...Tiaret attributed it to her waking up earlier than usual and getting the water...but she’d have to keep a close on her just in case it was something else.

“That was well thought of.” Coagin said with a smile as he took two of the canteens from her.

“Thanks. Shall I go and wake Eurekain?”

Tiaret nodded. “Sure, we’ll get started here.” She and Coagin exchanged a look only the two of them understood as the caster walked away.

“Rise and shine sleeping beauty.” Aiineko called as she crouched down near Eurekain.

“Sleeping who?” Eurekain asked.

“Well...you’re sleeping and you’re beautiful, I figured it fit well enough.” Aiineko replied with a shrug.

Eurekain sat up and stretched her arms above her head, bending backward slightly and arching her back. “Do we need to get water?”

“Nope. I already took care of that.”

Eurekain smirked. “You know, you’re probably going to have to do a lot more than that if you wanna catch his eye.” She murmured.

Aiineko scoffed and rolled her eyes. “Please, as if that Monk could compare to my true love.” She said loftily.

Eurekain eyed her suspiciously. “And why is this the first time I’m hearing of this?”

“Well, I hardly had time to tell you before we left.” Aiineko reminded. “Now hurry up. We need to get moving.”

“Wait! You have to tell me about this mysterious love of yours!” Eurekain whispered frantically.

“It’s hardly the time, ya’know.” Aiineko grunted. “Maybe later though...”

“Hmm...well, all right. But I’ll hold you to that.” Eurekain said standing up.

“Welcome to the land of the living.” Coagin teased with a smile.

“Very funny. I know I sleep hard, but I don’t quite compare to the dead, thank you very much.” She said disdainfully.

“How far do you think we’ll get today?” Aiineko asked, smiling in her usual radiant manner. Another look passed between the two Monks before Coagin answered.

“We should reach the Karanas today.”

“Is it just me, or are we moving really slow?” Eurekain asked.

“We’re proceeding cautiously.” Tiaret corrected. “None of us have ever really crossed the continent.”

“Aii did.” Eurekain said.

“Really?” Coagin asked, generally interested.

“Yeah, but that was in a large caravan a long time ago. And even then, we had to go slow to make sure we avoided bandits.” She said with a shrug. “And Daddy wouldn’t let me get out of the damn wagon to actually see where we were going. He’s always been over-protective.”

“I thought you said you didn’t have anyone that’d care about if you were gone..” Tiaret said.

“They’re much more interested in my potential than me, I assure you.” Aiineko said as she turned to watch the sun rise. This caused yet another mysterious exchange between the Monks.

“So, the Karanas, huh? I’ve heard so much about them.” Eurekain said trailing off into thought.

“Do you think we’ll see a Gryphon?” Aiineko asked excitedly.

“I certainly hope not.” Coagin grumbled good-naturedly.

“Should I gather up some fire wood?” Eurekain asked. Tiaret looked to Coagin and raised an eye brow.

“Sure.” He said hading the canteens to Tiaret. “I’ll go with you.”

“You know just because I’m a caster doesn’t mean I’m inherently weak.” She said with a smile.

“True, but it’s always good practice to travel in groups, even if it is just a group of two.” After they’d wandered a bit farther away, Coagin decided to ask Eurekain what Tiaret and he had talked about. “By the way...have you noticed if Aiineko’s acting a bit differently?”

Eurekain looked over at him. “Not really...why?”

He shrugged and resumed picking up sticks. “She just seems a bit more...deflated whenever you’re not around, or when she thinks no one’s really paying attention.”

“It’s probably just the trip wearing on her...not to mention her family situation.”

“I’ve noticed she doesn’t enjoy talking about that much.”

Eurekain nodded. “I never really cared who her parents were, and that’s why we became such good friends. She’s a lot more selfless than others think, she just hides the real her behind a posh exterior.”

“Kind of like you hide behind the “I’m fine” exterior?” he questioned with a grin.

She glared at him. “I am fine.”

He shrugged. “If you say so.”

“...well, maybe a bit anxious.” She admitted. “I’ve never really been in a group before. It’s almost thrilling to travel like this, but then I have to remind myself this situation isn’t supposed to be thrilling.” She looked over at him feeling a bit guilty. “Is it wrong that I’m actually enjoying the trip, when I’m really supposed to be doing this for Idlewild’s sake?”

He smiled. “I’ve never known there to be anything wrong with enjoying good company...Quellious knows the situation could be reversed. It’s never wrong to look at the good in the situation.” He reminded.

She nodded. “I suppose so.” She took a deep breath, relishing the fresh air. “It’s the most curious feeling though...it’s like, I can’t wait to get there, but I know I’ll hate it when the journey’s over.”

“I’m sure your cousin will be happy to see you too.”

“What do you think will happen when this is all over?”

Coagin shrugged. “I know you have business in Qeynos...Tiaret has mentioned something about visiting the north.”

“Really?” that was certainly something she never would’ve guessed.

“Yes...but don’t say I told you. I have the feeling she didn’t want that to be widely known.”

“Why?’

He shrugged again. “Maybe it’s because she feels an obligation to stay with you, and maybe you’re not the only one feeling a bit guilty for wanting for something that wasn’t planned in the group.”

Eurekain thought on that and nodded. It did make sense. Tiaret’s sense of loyalty often got in the way of her doing things she wanted. “Well...we’ll just have to figure out a way to set her at ease then, wont we?”

“Since when are you and I conspirators?” Coagin asked with a playful grin.

“You know you love conspiring with me.” She flirted, tossing her hair over her shoulder.

:End Ramble:

MM: Phew! Man! How long have I been working on this chapter!

Eurekain: Forever.

Bijo: Yeah. Forever.

MM: Stop exaggerating.

Tiaret: It certainly felt like forever.

Aiineko: I’m just glad we finally made another appearance.

Coagin: Yes. We struck out and then...nothing.

Eurekain: Yeah! It’s like we’re just wondering around in the wilderness or something.

Bijo: /grumbles Serves you right.