reconnaissance mission || SCARLETT

[ROWAN ALEXANDER STANFORTH]

They had a mission at hand. They needed to try and figure out the vastness of the army that they were facing. Rowan had been begged not to go because of who he was and what position he held, but he wouldn't hear of it. He was a fighter and always had been, and his stubbornness and defiance were traits he had inherited from his deceased mother. No one could change his mind once it was made up. He would go, or no one else would go. He would not sit and wait at home in the castle to see which of his men had made it back alive. He would be of a lot more use on the battlefield than sitting behind the lines. That had been his motto and outlook from the beginning. And Rowan had done that. He had always fought alongside the men as soon as he was old enough to get on the battlefield. His father and their protectors had never been too happy, but Rowan had proven himself. His skills were honed and perfected, and he could hold his own.

Rowan was a great fighter, and a great rider. He worked endless hours on those skills and even helped train recruits. The point was, he could fight and he would fight. And now, he would spy. Scarlett and he had a mission. And that mission would not be a failure with the both of them involved. He was clothed in simpler armor now, that would not allow him to be recognized as the Prince of Lydel. He wore a mask over his face so his features could not be identified, and instead of his normal black garb, he was dressed in forest and earth tones. It was the perfect spy outfit. He also had to choose a horse from the stables that wouldn't get him recognized. His own two, Haligan and Skylark were too noticeable. So he had chosen a light footed chestnut, and he was ready to go. Rowan was waiting outside of Lydel for Scarlett. She would know where to meet him, and that was good enough for him. They needed to make good time to Xaranth. They would miss the wave of scouts and troops that moved in now, and would get there just in time for the next one. They could not be seen or they would be dead. It was as simple as that. Rowan's adrenaline was pumping and he was more than ready for this mission. Now he just needed Scarlett.

[SCARLETT CRAVEN]

Dress
Red cloak

It was time.
Scarlett went out of her house, she had opened an old trunk that was of her mother, she found a pretty dress, she looked good on it, though she was only using it as a distract, plus her red cloak would apart the view from her face to her color cloak, she was going to Xaranth, and she couldnt be recognized by Kain, or by anyone of that Legion. She wasnt scared, by she knew that it was very dangerous to be around there. She looked at her white horse and doubted in using her or other. She then smiled and a wicked idea came to her mind. She looked a black stallion, of a merchant, the man was talking to another man, discussing about politics and rules, about war and peace, never endings subjects. When he was distracted she ran and jumped like a really gymnastic would. She placed both of her hands on the horse´s back and opening her legs she she sat on the animal. She took the hair of the animal and with her tights she pressed his stomach and the animal started to run. The man shouted some thing that she couldnt hear, she was going so fast, and her cloak made her a favor, that merchant would never recognize her.

As soon as she was outside of lydel she saw the prince over there, he looked, good. Like a normal person. He was using a mask, thing Scarlett find a little funny. "Are we going to a masquerade? Because I forgot mine" she said with a fierce voice, her cloak fell from the head to her shoulder, and she smiled. She placed the horse near Prince Rowan, and looked at him, she had this mysterious and intriguing face. "You know, these might sound awkward, but Im glad Im using a dress. Im sure, Kain, the Owner of the Legion, would recognize me, everywhere. I cant cover my face. Any ideas besides the cloak? If he finds me.. well, the first time he almost made me a slave, then he was kind, and later I ran away. Mans are complicated you know?" she said randomly, as she looked to the sky, it was almost afternoon, they needed to hurry up if they wanted to be in Xaranth by night.

[ROWAN ALEXANDER STANFORTH]

Rowan didn't have to wait for very long. He heard hoof beats pounding over the terrain from behind him. Turning the chestnut mare around, she went willingly, her feet dancing as she pranced. He always managed to pick the horse's with the most energy. Laying a steady hand upon her well muscled neck, he looked forward and had to do a double take. That couldn't be Scarlett. She was on a black horse for one, and the most dramatic difference was that she was wearing a dress. He hardly saw her outside of her armor, and he knew she would catch him staring. He couldn't help himself. Besides, they were just friends, right? Like brother and sister. That was all that they shared, and he'd accepted that. Shaking his head slightly, he came to and heard her words. Laughing slightly, he pulled up the mask and gave a small shrug of his shoulders.

"I don't want to be recognized. The hood only helps so much."

He said honestly, watching her for another moment. As she settled the strange horse beside him, Rowan laid his hand on his own mount's neck once more. The chestnut mare was large in size, and Rowan knew she was a favorite among the men in the stables. She didn't have a permanent name or a permanent home, and Rowan wondered if he could give her that. He could always take in another horse. But they needed to get down to business. Rowan's face became serious as he listened to Scarlett's concerns, and he pulled another mask out of his traveling pack. You could never be too prepared.

"You can use it if you want. It helps more than you think, even though you only like to poke fun."

He said with a grin, but held it out anyway. The masks were simple and only covered their eyes. They were a black material, and fit snugly so they wouldn't be in the way. Rowan kept his on top of his head for now until they started out. They had to do whatever they could not to be recognized. The men of Xaranth would knew Scarlett because of her previous missions there, and they would know Rowan simply because he was the Prince of Lydel. That was why he had gone through such lengths to look like a commoner. He pulled the look off quite well, and he had to admit he was comfortable. He never went overboard with fancy clothes, but black was his main choice. It was nice to get out of that monotony. He let her take it and then looked to her once more.

"So. Let's go over the plan again."

[SCARLETT CRAVEN]

She looked at him, the mask was pretty small, just covered his eyes, or well perhaps it was that she knew it was him, and that she would recognize him everywhere, besides his scent, that was like woods and rain, she didnt know how to describe that scent, it was personal. She believed that the Legion´s manor/castle was outside of Xaranth, more into the wildness of the forest so at least they didnt have to talk to guards or something like that. She didnt forgot her weapons though, it was kind of uncomfortable wearing a large and slim sword under that dress. Thank god she was wearing some boots with belts around, that helped her to carry some knifes. She knew for sure that the Legion wasnt anything like she had seen before.

As he handed her a mask she took it and wear it as fast as she could, there was no time to loose. Once she had it, she put her cloak upon her head and smiled to Rowan, he was so charming, but she needed to stop it now. there was no time for a brother-sister talk or pat. She wondered if thinking that your brother was cute and handsome was part of an incest. After all she didnt had to worry about it, they werent related in blood lines. Again he was a prince, and she was only a Knight. And her loyalty was still in first place.

"Yes, lets go." she said as she started to ride the horse she had just stole a few minutes ago. She wasnt sure how fast could that horse go, but seemed as fast as her white horse. The difference was that that horse didnt had reins. She growled at that, she disliked using the horse hair as a rein. But she had to. The horse seemed to be used to that, seemed also wild and fierce. She knew the way back to the Manor of the Legion, or at least she thought she could remember it. "Follow me" she yell at Rowan hoping he could listen to her.

There was this cold wind and silent forest, it seemed like a horror scene, where the murder was just about to appear, the only noise she could hear was the wind crashing into the trees making a terrifying sound. It was night, it took them almost all the afternoon to find the place. She bit her lip and stopped. "I think its here" she said in a whisper, the fear was notorious in her mouth, but her eyes remain in calm, or shocked, depends on the way you want to see it. They were in trouble. "Rowan. Are we going inside? I dont know if there is someone inside, whats next?" she shouldnt be doing this questions, but in this mission she wasnt alone, and want it or not, she had to take care of him, that was her job, and thats what she liked to do

[ROWAN ALEXANDER STANFORTH]

Rowan studied her for a moment as she took the mask and placed it over her face. He knew her too well not to be able to recognize that face even with the mask. Those blue eyes were a stark contrast to the black material surrounding her eyes. He gave her a small smile when her gaze met his, and then brought up his own hood to cover his face. He tied it tightly so that it would not slip on the ride there, knowing they would no doubt be riding at a quick speed. He turned the chestnut mare beneath him, watching Scarlett for a moment. She was beautiful. That thought him him like a hit to the stomach, and he felt as if his breath had been stolen from him for a moment. Regaining it just as quickly as he lost it, he took a deep breath to steady himself, exhaling softly and slowly. He couldn't lose his head now. She was like his sister, and she was a knight. He doubted she would ever have any interest in him. They had grown up together, after all.

Biting his lip, he heard her words as she asked the black horse below her to gallop forward. The mare he was on pranced in place as he held her back for a moment. The steed he was on was fast, and well known for her speed in the stable. He wasn't worried about being left behind, but he was certainly worried about making too much noise in the foreign, hostile forest. Furrowing his brow for a moment, he asked the mare to go forward. She did with a small buck, frustrated that she had been left behind this much. Rowan sat it easily, being known for his riding skills in Lydel. Sighing softly, he sat easily upon her back, letting her extend below him as they covered the distance between Scarlett's horse and Rowan's. He was soon riding right beside of her, and when they neared where Scarlett thought the place was, Rowan checked his horse's pace. The mare slowed to a trot and then a walk without much complaint, save for a toss of her finely shaped head. Rowan patted her neck, feeling her become uneasy because of the darkness and the silence around them. She side stepped for a moment until Rowan comforted her.

He looked to Scarlett as she spoke, wondering if this was actually the place or not. He doubted she would forget, but it was so quiet. It was almost eerie, and it was making him extremely uncomfortable. His worried eyes turned to look as Scarlett finished speaking to him, and he nodded slowly. They were going to have to go in. They weren't getting any information by standing outside. Her question of what's next echoed in his mind, and he dismounted, tying the mare securely out of sight. He knew Scarlett would do the same.

"We go inside."

He said matter of factly, looking to the young woman who was accompanying him on this mission. They needed to do everything they could possibly do to get this information. This could make or break them in this war. This could make his father rest and be at ease. He wasn't going to lose his father. So he was going to do everything that he possibly could do. Stepping forward, he suddenly froze, for he heard a branch snap off to his left. His heart began beating wildly, but he kept his calm. Slowly and silently, he reached behind his back to draw his double swords. They came out without a sound, which was exactly what he needed. Stepping forward once more, he did his best to maneuver around the broken branches littered at his feet. It was obvious Rowan knew what he was doing. He had done it in the past, and was skilled at fighting. He had been studying battle tactics and going through training since he was old enough to read and hold a sword. He could protect himself, but he was worried about Scarlett.

He wanted to look over his shoulder to see if she was alright, but he knew it wasn't safe. He couldn't leave his front or his back unguarded. He walked slightly sideways, keeping his swords level in front of him, listening to the sounds around them. He crept towards the cabin, staying in the shadows and making sure no one could see him if they ventured forward. The door swung open before Rowan had a chance to react. He stood for a moment, knowing that the light would show his swords glinting dangerously. Cursing himself, he sheathed them quickly and drew his bow, hearing the shouts from the few men that were inside. He laced an arrow and let it fly, hitting one target. They needed to take the men out and fast. He let loose another arrow, hitting that man in the leg, but not killing him.

It was then that the most intense pain hit him. Rowan's throat filled with a gasp as he looked down. His left side held an arrow, and he saw the blood seeping from the wound. He hoped Scarlett hadn't seen. They needed to finish these men off so they could get inside the small house. There weren't many left. Rowan reached down to his side, breaking the end of the arrow off so Scarlett wouldn't see it. Gasping quietly, he closed his eyes for a moment and entered the small fray, using his swords and his skills to his advantage. It wasn't until the ambush was over that Rowan allowed himself to relax. In the process of the battle, he had sustained one more arrow. He hadn't noticed because of his adrenaline, but he was noticing now as his wounds began throbbing. It had burrowed itself deep into his thigh, the tip protruding on the other side. He didn't break it in fear that they couldn't get it out. But that one didn't concern him. The one in his side was making him taste blood within his mouth. Spitting, he tasted the metallic liquid, and it made him feel sick. He sank to his knees after a moment, his hands going to his side. Groaning, he shook his head and tried to get up, but it was easier said than done. Sitting back for a moment, he spoke up.

"Scarlett. Make sure that there aren't anymore in the house. Make sure they're all dead. I just need a minute. I'm winded."

It was dark so she wouldn't be able to make out his wounds. He hoped she would believe the fact that he was just winded from the battle, but a small part of him doubted it. She knew he was in the best shape of his life, if not a little on the thin side from the stress he was under. But Rowan could survive for long periods of time on the battlefield, and everyone knew that. He just prayed she would check for any survivors before listening to her suspicions.

[SCARLETT CRAVEN]

She jumped out of her stolen horse and twisted her mouth, wearing a dress wasnt exactly what she wanted at the moment, her skin rubbed with the horse´s one and it felt so wrong that she had to shut her mouth from saying it aloud. Her cloak didnt worked at all, but she needed to wear it, there no lights outside of the Manor where she had been just days ago. Her shoulder was alright now, thanks to Prince Rowan, she had to thank him for that. She bit her lip as she stared at him, so determinate to end this war, to save his father, if he were other Prince he wouldnt even leave the castle, he would just sit behind a desk and drink whiskey until he had some sort of stomach cancer. But there wasnt Prince Rowan, he was brave, smart, skilled, and charming, over all a gentleman. She smiled at him, discretely, she disliked to smile, if it was a sarcastic or ironic one, then it was fine. But few honest smiles crossed her face in years.
She still remembered the day that Kain wanted to kill a kid and she saved him, that was how she got so hurt in the shoulder, at the time she embraced the kid Kain´s sword went trough her shoulder. But that wasnt the worst, she could handle that pain by biting her tongue, as she did always, what saved her life was her loyalty. Kain asked her for her last words before cut her head in the middle of the Xaranth street. And her last famous words were: "Long life to the King Stanforth" and before she could close her eyes, he dragged her to his manor, trying to make her his slave. bah! I would rather loose my head than turn into a slave she puffed in her head at the simple thought of it.
So many recent memories crossed her head, she wasnt sure if she wanted to see Kain´s face, or other one, but it wasnt about if she wanted to see him or not, it was her duty, and she would finish it. "We go inside" he said and she had no other option than obey. And for sure she wanted to kick some buts, she didnt wanted revenge, she wanted Justice; for the people, the Prince and the King. She nodded in agreement and she had to raise her dress to take her sword that was tied with a belt to her thigh. She took it and removed the cloak that was just making her anxious, she couldnt move with it. Then they started to walk, and for their disgrace, she heard a noise, that break the silence of the night. She had no arrow or bow and she was angry for that, she should had carried one with her.
As Rowan hit a men with his arrow, she noticed the light and that she would be spotted if she moved her sword, so she threw it to the ground and took her knifes that were tight to her boots, she took 4 of them and prayed for her knack. She noticed that Rowan gasped and that made her rush and she threw the 4 knifes. She killed 3 mans, and the one that hit Rowan just fell to the floor screaming. She looked back at Rowan, but her eyes were in front of them, she couldnt get distracted, but it was Rowan, and she needed to help him. There was a duel inside of her. She saw the arrow in his side and she gasped too. THE PRINCE WAS IN DANGER, her head couldnt repeat something else but that. She didnt said anything, the better she could do was to kill everyone, that would be the only way to make him safe again. She just prayed that his wounds werent too deep. Then she heard him spitting, and if there was something that Scarlett could smell, was blood, that sulfur and metallic smell that she hated with all heart.
"Scarlett. Make sure that there aren't anymore in the house. Make sure they're all dead. I just need a minute. I'm winded."She took her sword and looked at Rowan, even in the dark night, she could see his face, and that face wasnt supposed to look like that, he didnt deserved that, an urge of blood made her look dangerous and evil, no one had ever hurt someone she loved so much, not in front of her. With sword in hand she walked to the warriors, 2 were alive, one was about to die, and the others were just corpses. She finished the man´s pain by cutting his head off. Then with simple, skilled and fast sword moves, she walked to the others, she could handle the 2 of them, the difference was that she was small and flexible, they were using armors which made them clumsy.
She finally cut their head off. Her face was full of others blood, so her white dress, she sighed with out air, she was falling in pieces inside, she couldnt show that Rowan. As soon as the dead bodies fell to the ground she went to Rowan, she knelt by his side and looked at him, she was so worried, he was a health young man. Then she touched his leg and noticed blood there, "Oh crap" she barely said, her eyes widened and she had to think fast. "You will be fine, you will be fine, you will be fine" she said again and again and again. It was part of being nervous and stressed. She took a part of her dress and cut it with the sword, she would make a tourniquet in his leg, she couldnt see, but she could touch, with the pain in her heart, but she needed to find the wound, it would hurt him, yes but it would be worse to loose a leg.
"There you are" she said to herself as she found the wound in the leg and placed the tourniquet, the blood would stop anytime soon. As for his side she wondered. bingo she thought as she grabbed her red cloak and made some bandages, thank god she still had the ointment that Isaac gave her. She put the ointment in the cloak, making it wet and then placed it as a strip around his stomach. Then she cut another piece of her dress and made a knot, so the cloak wouldnt fell. "Rowan look at me" she said as she looked straight into his eyes. "Dont ever leave me" she said, her voice almost broke at the end, she noticed that her comment could implicate something else, so she corrected herself, she coughed, "I mean dont leave my side, because... you can get winded..." she said as she tried to make him forget about her last comment. "Are you able to walk? Or should I send you home?" she asked him, at the end a tiny a very tiny small appeared in the corner of her lip.

[ROWAN ALEXANDER STANFORTH]

He was in pain. He had never been in this much pain. He had gotten an arrow to the shoulder once on the battlefield, but it had never stung as badly as this had. His hands clenched at the wound in his side, trying to stem the blood that was flowing steadily from it. Groaning slightly as Scarlett went to finish the men off, he closed his eyes tightly and bumped his head on the side of the house. He had managed to pull himself up so that he was sitting with his back to the side of the house, and he was a bit more comfortable. But he was weakening from the wound in his side, and it wasn't looking bright for the prince of Lydel. Rowan brought one hand away and could see it shining in the dim light from the house. The blood covered it completely, and it made him sick. Fighting back the nausea that was rising within him, he just closed his eyes and leaned his head back against the house.

He kept a sword in one hand, hugging his side with the other. His leg stung, but it was nothing compared to his side. He didn't understand why it hurt so badly, and he was trying to figure out what it was. His breathing was labored from the trauma of it all, and his brow was covered in sweat and blood. He had wiped at his face because of the moisture, and had just made a mess of it. He had blood on his face already from the two men that he had slain with his swords. The one he had killed with his arrow was far enough away obviously. But he felt dirty and disgusting, and weak for even being hit in the first place. He should have been more careful, even though there was nothing he could have done in that situation. He had been a sitting duck. They both had been. It was just that he was in front of Scarlett, so he had gotten the brunt of the attack. Taking a deep breath to steady himself, he felt himself start to cough from that effort. And when he coughed, blood spattered the ground to the side of him. He had turned his head when he coughed, and it was a good thing too. If he hadn't, he would have coughed all over himself. Groaning once more, he felt Scarlett drop by his side.

He turned his grey eyes to meet her blue ones. He took comfort and solace in that gaze, even if it was only filled with worry and fear. She couldn't hide those emotions from him even if she wanted to. He knew her too well and for far too long not to be able to tell. He offered her a small smile of encouragement as she looked over his wounds. He had to make light of the situation so she'd calm down a little bit. He knew she was worrying especially when she started speaking, and even as lightheaded as he was, he would try to make her relax.

"It's just a scratch."

He finished easily, looking at her with a smile on his pale face. Rowan was never pale, and it wasn't making him look any better. Closing his eyes as another wave of pain washed over him, he let his free hand clench the hilt of his sword as he tried to fight it. His heels dug into the ground, but that only hurt his injured leg more. He felt like he was falling apart. He felt her hands going to his leg, and he wished he could find the strength to guide her to where the wound was. Then he wouldn't have to feel any more pain come to that area. But she found it, and he cried out as her fingers identified it as the wound. The arrow was still embedded deeply within his leg, and he didn't know if he could stand getting it out.

"Don't. Don't take it out, not yet. I'll just break it."

He said honestly. The arrow was stemming the bleeding for the most part anyway. Bringing his hand from his bloodied side, he dropped his sword with the other and found the arrow. Breaking it, he groaned as he did so and then let it fall to the side. There. It wouldn't be in the way now. Scarlett wrapped it quickly after ripping her dress, and Rowan looked down in dismay. He didn't want her to have to ruin her things to patch him up. But she was working on his side now, and the burning was back. He did all that he could not to cry out, but it didn't work. As she tied the red cloak around it, Rowan felt it rise in his throat. He yelled, doing his best to ignore the intense pain. Closing his eyes, his fingers dug into the ground as he tried to find something to hold onto as she fixed him up. After she finished, he sat silently for a moment, feeling spent. He didn't have any energy left after that, and he was embarrassed.

It was then that he heard her words. She wanted him to look at her. Fulfilling her request, his deep grey eyes stared straight into her own. He heard her passionate words, and he found himself wanting to be closer to her. But he would never want to put her in an uncomfortable position. He pushed himself forward and off the wall and gently took her face between his hands. He had dried blood on them now, so he wasn't worried about getting any of the crimson upon her face. He leaned up and kissed her forehead softly, figuring that had to be acceptable. He wanted nothing more than to really kiss her, but he wouldn't. Not unless she showed him something that told him she had small feelings for him.

"I promise I won't. But don't ever think you can leave me either."

Their tender moment had passed, and she was trying to cover up what she had said. He grinned in response to that, deciding to play along because it would make her feel better. He shook his head slightly and then heard her words, catching her smile as she finished speaking them. Send him home? In her dreams. He shook his head and started pushing himself up in a standing position although his side was on fire. There had to be something else wrong with it to burn that much. Ignoring the pain that was flowing through him, he hoped it didn't show in his eyes. However, she was extremely perceptive, and he didn't know if she could figure it out or not. Hoping she wouldn't, especially because it was dark, he sighed and looked to her, stepping forward with a slight limp to his step.

"You're not getting rid of me that easily. Sorry to disappoint."

His tone held jest, and he hoped that covered the pain that dripped from his words. He was hurting, and he didn't know how much longer he could keep to his feet. They needed to hurry or he wasn't going to make the journey back home.

[SCARLETT CRAVEN]

She was in pain. Not literately, no one had stabbed her or even made a scratch on her skin, but she felt so bad for Rowan, she knew he could handle pain, but this was too much. She tried to at least make him safe. She didnt knew if there was worth it to enter to that Manor, or make the Prince go. But again, Its Scarlett, she wouldnt leave, not for nothing he was so wounded, at least those wounds needed to be worth it. They needed some information, perhaps strategies, maps, or anything helpful. She looked at him he was so pale and full of blood and sweat. She would probably play with him in another moment telling him that even full of sweat his fans would seek him. But this wasn't the time. She saw him taking away the arrow and she could almost feel the pain he felt. Her eyes widened but she remain in silence.

She looked at him, he was kissing her forehead, for once she thought he was going to kiss her in the lips, silly me she thought. How could she be thinking of him, the Prince of Lydel, kissing her, a Knight, that would almost be gay. She shocked her head and tried to remove those thoughts from her head, she smiled pleased at his words. She was so happy to be there, though she would had preferred to go alone. Risking his life wasn't part of the plan. As he spoke amused and she raised an eyebrow. If thats what he believed, then why she should change it? "Well Prince, we are in here, seems like there is no one left to kill." she said as she stood up and gave him her hand, so he could stand up with her helping him. "If Its necessary I will have to raise you up in my arms, like just married" she said ironically. "And dont worry, I wont tell you cried" she said amused, as a playful smile appeared on her lips. Since kids they had always played around to see who was better, but fortunately they knew where to stop the game, if not, they would have been enemies since their first year.
He didn't looked so great, she was doubting more if he should wait her outside. "Do you prefer to wait for me outside?" she asked curiously, she disliked the idea of letting him outside, but she would dislike more the idea of both being inside and suddenly get attacked by who knows who!.

OoC: Sorry its short, but I think we need to move on to the Manor or to somewhere else.

[ROWAN ALEXANDER STANFORTH]

Rowan took a deep breath and exhaled, trying to regain his bearings and some of his strength before they ventured forward. He had half a mind to use his sword as a can, because that would make walking easier for him. But it would offer him no protection if someone was to attack them inside the manor. Furrowing his brow after a moment, he brought his hand to the cloak Scarlett had gotten on his side. He was discouraged when he felt that the bandage like creation was already wet. He was losing a lot of blood, and they need to hurry if they wanted to get this done. He put his hand down immediately at his side so Scarlett wouldn't see. The truth was, they couldn't see the extent of his injuries until they got home to Lydel. But it had taken them a full day to ride out to here. It would take them just as much time to ride back to Lydel. Rowan didn't know if he was going to make it.

Trying not to think that negatively, he looked to Scarlett. He knew his eyes betrayed his fears and his worries, but he wished that they wouldn't. She would know something was up, and he just didn't want her to get worried, or try to send him back. Rowan would never dream of leaving her here on her own, and he wouldn't be able to make the ride back alone. He was going to have to get tied to the saddle at this point. And she was going to have to keep him talking the whole way home. Trying not to think about that now, he focused on the here and now. They had to get through the house. If he took the upstairs and she took the down, then they would get through it faster. And they could also warn one another if there were others inside. He doubted it because of the ruckus that was created outside, but one could never be sure. Sighing to himself, he looked to Scarlett as she spoke up. He nodded.

"I think, I hope that's everyone."

His words were strained, and it was obvious that he was in pain. He would get through it though. Rowan always managed to. He always handled his pain quietly, without any complaint. The only proof that he was feeling it was written in his facial features, even though he tried his best to hide that. He would never ask for help or for something for the pain. He dealt with it, as all good soldiers did. He wasn't just a Prince. He was a soldier of Lydel, and always would be, deep down in his heart. His mother had said that to him, and he would always remember those words. Suddenly, Scarlett's voice reached his again, and he had to smile. He almost laughed, but that small effort hurt more than anything, and he refrained from partaking in it.

"You wouldn't dare pick me up like that. I'm too fat for you anyway."

He joked easily. Scarlett was strong though, and he honestly didn't know if she could pick him up or not. If he was as muscled as he used to be, he would say no. But the stress of his father's illness had cost him some weight, and he was thinner than ever before. Rowan was still fit though, so he couldn't tell if she could make that threat true or not. He didn't want to chance it, and ignored her hand to help him up. He didn't want to give her an excuse to say he needed to go home. He wouldn't be going. Giving her a playful look at his dejection of her hand, he spoke up at her next words.

"There were no tears, Milady. You have no proof."

He said playfully, trying to make her think that he was fine. He shook his head as she asked if he wanted to wait outside. No, he wasn't going to wait outside. He wouldn't leave her alone in there, no matter what. He was going to go with her even if he left a trail of blood behind him. Limping forward, his stubborn, defiant nature came through solidly.

"Let's go. I'll take upstairs, you take the lower level."

He said easily, knowing she might argue, but not giving her the chance. Rowan was inside the house with only one sword out in front of him. He didn't have enough strength to carry them both in his hands. He headed to the stairs carefully and quietly, and managed to get up them without making much noise, but it was definitely difficult. Fighting the urge to cry out from the pain, he bit his lip instead and went to the first room. It was clear, and he started searching it, looking in the drawers and the cabinets. He repeated the process with all of the rooms, glad he wasn't running into anyone. He wondered how Scarlett was doing downstairs. They needed to find something. This mission couldn't be in vain.

[MISTRESS DENNA GODAVARI]

"Please, PLEAS-I BEGOF YOU....ARRUUGGG-!" The young boy screamed has Denna whipped him for the umpteenth time, blood trickling down his back, bruises tickle his skin. Purple, slowly yellowing. He was bound from the ceiling, by his arms shirtless covered in sweat. Heaving large breaths, trying to regain his composure. Denna smiled letting out a sultry laugh, as she rounded him like a lioness stalking her prey.

Whip resting at her side, help in her right hand. Her left tracing curves along his skin. When she finally finished admiring her work, gazing up and down. Indulging herself in is pain. Stepping closer to the man, Denna brought her face close to his, within nose distance, close enough to smell his fear, and for him to become seduced to the freedom she can give him.

"I don't think you understand me slave...-" lifting a gentle hand to his mouth, the young man flinched with her touch. Wiping away the blood, and licking it away from her finger. "The more you fight, the worse it becomes." Denna, quickly wrapped up her whip and swung her hand back, towards the slave's face Denna smiled as the traitor's body slumped into unconsciousness. A serpentine smile glided across her blood red lips.

"Take care of this, make sure he is trained to my liking" with a quick hand, motioned to the guards, Denna ascended the stairs, whip bound to her belt, dagger strapped to her thigh, She quickly exited the dungeon, and made her way into the main stair case. Releasing a breath, letting the cool air waft across her heated skin. Denna smiled at herself knowing, that she was in fact. Great at what she does. Pulling herself out of her thoughts, and eyes darted upwards to the stairs. She listened to the rumble and scatter of paper, and drawers being opened, and doors being slammed. Upon noticing that it wasn't anyone she knew, being the only one in this wing. Denna balled up her hands into fists and quickly took the stairs. Following the sounds, and the clutter scattered along the hallway. Denna smiled as she pressed her back against the wall, and waited a baited breath, before rounding the corner.

A young man stood there with his back to her, with short brown hair, and a cloak nonetheless. Grabbing the cloak by its trim, Denna ripped it backwards, trying to throw off the intruders footing. Spinning him towards her, Her fist cutting through the air, and connecting with his chin, in a fast fluid motion. A loud thwack resounded, as he fell. Standing over the young man, Denna looked down at him with a smile, the light eluminatng behind her, half hiding her face. "I think I've gotten myself a new friend"

[SCARLETT CRAVEN]

He didnt wanted any help, and she smiled at that, he was stubborn and she somewhat liked that. He was trying to stand in both feets and she prayed he could do it. And he could, even if he had to use that sword to help him walk. She watched him carefully, every single movement he was doing, everything. Her eyes looked up and down, he was thinner than ever. She remembered him with very firm muscles, not that she had even touched them, but they seemed strong enough to save a lady in danger. And again her mind was walking away from the target. She shocked her head and realized it was no time to surrender to his charming eyes, gray eyes that looked straight into hers, that almost made her melt STOP IT! Scarlett he is not a piece of meat or something, focus!

She bit her lip and huffed. She was happy that at least he had humor for joker, she just wanted to try and make that pain fade away. She was thinking in the odyssey that would be to bring him home. They would need to go in horse, just one, so she could be taking care of him. She thought of stealing a carriage, he could go inside, and she could go outside holding the horses reins. But again she didnt wanted him to fall asleep. She could be talking about so many things, like the weather, politics, medical plants, far away lands, fairy tales. But over all she would love to remind him, their childhood.


As he told her to go lower level she growled, how in hell did he planned to go up stairs with an almost broken leg? He was charming, yes, but at times very stubborn or stupid, "Thats not clever" she puffed and took her sword as she walked down the hall. She looked back at him while he was trying not to cry in the stairs, her gaze was from fear. She hoped for no one to be in the house. She bit her lip and held her sword defense, as she walked, she found 3 doors. She put her ear in the doors in wait to hear just silence. She did it 3 times in the 3 doors, and she found nothing but silence. She opened the first door. It was a huge room, with many animal´s corpses and animal blankets all around. She gasped, it was a cold and gray place to be in. but the decoration wasnt important, she wasnt going to live in there.

In the desk she found some papers, she looked quickly at them, they were too many there must be something important in here she thought as she looked upon a building map, she took it in her hands and looked at the draws, seemed like Kain was going to build a fortress, in his Manor. Her face turned bitter and surprised, then she looked shocked, she didnt liked the idea of building that, that meant that Kain was going to make it impenetrable. She hated the simple idea of that.
She grabbed it fold it, until make it a tiny piece of paper, she put it inside her breast, it was the only safe place where she could put it, well not the most safest, she could put it inside her underwear but she had no time for it. She looked other papers, but she didnt wanted Kain to know that she was there, so she tried to memorize everything. She looked over some names, Jacke Baptiste was one of them. Suddenly she heard a hit in the roof. Like if something had fell to the floor. In a big hurry she organized the papers as they were, and almost running she went out of there.

[ROWAN ALEXANDER STANFORTH]

Rowan knew she wouldn't like the plan. But it was the only choice they had right now. If they wanted to get through this manor in the time that he had, they would have to split it. He didn't want to do it because he was too weak to defend himself in any situation, but they had no choice. He would sacrifice himself if it meant that they would find something to help Lydel. He wasn't going to play the weak card here. His father was strong enough to survive this illness for as long as he had. Rowan was strong enough to get past a couple of wounds that could be fixed later. So, he looked to Scarlett now, almost daring her to argue with him. He knew she probably would because she was really the only one that would. He was proud and impressed with her because of that, and he hoped she would never change. But they needed to hurry.

He was really worried about making it back to Lydel. He was extremely weak at the moment even though he was fighting against it. The big chestnut mare he had ridden from the stables could carry them both, but it would take longer. Rowan just wasn't sure now. Shaking his head slightly, he looked to Scarlett as she spoke up once again. The grin lit his pale, sweat covered face and he just kept that smile. It would reassure her, he hoped. He needed to make her believe that he was fine. He wanted her to think that he could make it through this. But the pain his left side was bringing him was enough to bring any weak man to his knees. It was a good thing Rowan wasn't weak. He turned to her just before they parted, his hand finding her cheek and resting there. He made her look at him, not wanting to leave her at this moment.

"Be careful, please."

He finished, and then watched her a moment longer. His hand moved from her cheek to her hand, and he gave it a gentle squeeze. In another moment he was gone and working up the stairs rather painfully, but still quietly. Rowan knew enough to keep quiet in a strange place. He wasn't going to risk his own safety by being careless and stupid. He was silent as he moved through the hallway, limping rather painfully but ignoring it. He wouldn't be surprise if that arrow had done more damage than he thought. Ignoring it, he entered the first room after making certain no one was inside of it. He went through the drawers and the cabinets almost as silently as he came up the stairs. He put everything back in the place he had found it so it wouldn't raise any suspicions. He was not going to take any changes. He moved to the last room he had to search, disappointed because he wasn't finding anything to help. This couldn't have been in vain, it just couldn't have been.

He listened for a moment outside the door and heard nothing inside. He entered into what appeared to be an office, and he wondered who inhabited it. Trying not to think about it, he approached the desk and tried not to make a noise. He was doing well for himself. He was so busy looking into the desk that he didn't hear anyone come up from behind him. Whoever had heard him in here had to have ears like a deer. He suddenly felt his cloak tightening around his neck, and fear went through his heart. Who had managed to sneak up on him like that? He always paid attention, always! He prayed it was Scarlett, but as he was turned, the first to his chin let him know it was far from her. He hit the floor like a ton of bricks, and the cry that split the air was anything but quiet. He had landed right on his side, and the pain was blinding. Grabbing at his side tightly, he started scrambling backwards, clenching his teeth from the pain. This couldn't be happening. Looking up, he heard the voice of a woman and matched that to a face. A new friend? Hardly. Rowan reached to his leg, pulling out a knife and throwing it skillfully in her direction. He wouldn't go down without a fight.

"I think you're mistaken."

He said bravely, knowing that he was in no position to fight. He could throw his knives, but that was where it stopped. He pulled another knife from his other boot, trying his best to fend for himself. His weakened state was obvious to anyone, for he couldn't get back up. She had total control, and Rowan was not alright with that. He just prayed she wouldn't recognize him for who he really was, because that could just make the situation worse.

[MISTRESS DENNA GODAVARI]

Denna smirked at her fortune of coming upon the intruder, his attempt to scramble away, highly comical. Her eyes lit with anger as cocked her hip to the side. Bringing up a hand to point to his injury. "Ohh, is the little thief injured?......and I didn't even have the pleasure of doing it myself." she ended with her maniacal laughter filling the small area, not the kind that made to feel at ease, but the kind to which would make you run.

"I think you're mistaken." he spoke, his lidded gaze meeting hers. He was quite handsome, and rugged. She noted. A fire inside him burned, she knew breaking him would be a enjoyable task. Her thoughts were quickly cut short, as daggers were thrown in her direction. "Quick hands...must be trained as a warrior" she thought. Dodging the first dagger as it slammed thick into the wall.

Throwing herself to the right, rolling on to a knee almost missing the second dagger, as it sliced through her leather. A small pool of blood began to drip from her arm. She smiled at the attempt on his part. Reaching for her whip, and flung it's tail with a loud crack toward the intruder. The weapon wrapping quickly around his wrist, standing to her feet she pulled the slack and stepped on it, jerking him to wards her.

Denna dragged him to her feet. She smiled down at him, and sent a swift kick to his face, she smiled with glee as blood spurted from his mouth. Yanking on the whip again, disabling his ability to fight all at once. Denna grabbed the thief by his hair, and head-butted him, making his vision blurry. Dropping him to his knees, she threw the the whip away from her. kneeing him in the face. More blood pooling from his mouth, and face. She stood back, and sent a swift kick to his stomach, making him stumble back, and then to the ground, into hopeful unconsciousness.

Leaning downward she picked up her whip, wrapping one end around her hand, and to the other. "I promise... the fun, has only just begun my little pet...."

[ROWAN ALEXANDER STANFORTH]

This couldn't be happening. How could he not have realized she was there? How could he not have heard her? He was too intent on finding something to help save Lydel, and to make his father feel at ease. Rowan hated himself for dropping his guard. If there was one thing his father had always drilled into him, it was to pay attention to all sides at all times. Rowan had always done that from an early age. And now he had forgotten himself, and his training. Now he was going to pay for it. He couldn't believe he had been so foolish. Swallowing his fear for now, he stared straight into the eyes of his attacker. She was heartless and cruel, and Rowan felt like he could already smell the stench of blood on her. This wasn't going to end well for him, especially because of the state he was already in. Rowan watched her for a moment, his grey eyes sharpening in the darker room. She was skilled with that whip and her strength, and Rowan didn't have a chance. He knew he didn't. If he had been in his normal state, than he could have fought back. He would have had some chance. But not now.

He could barely stand on his own two feet, let alone take more abuse to his already broken body. Rowan sucked in a deep breath of air as her harsh voice smacked across the silence. He hadn't want her to know he was already injured. That would only add fuel to her fire, and her words confirmed that. His hand clenched his side room tightly, trying to stem the bleeding that had begun afresh because of his impact with the ground. His leg wound was holding up with Scarlett's bandage, and it was then that his mind flicked to her. Oh no. Had she been discovered? His face showed no emotion, for he was trained to do that in the face of an enemy. He would not betray his companion's whereabouts, and if he was questioned about being alone or not, he would lie. He would rather die first than see her hurt. That was just how he was, and he realized in that moment how much he truly cared for Scarlett. He couldn't let her suffer. Rowan clenched his teeth and spoke up, determined not to go down without a fight.

"Well how unfortunate for you."

He spat out, not wanting to give her the pleasure of winning with her words. If he couldn't win a physical fight, he sure wasn't going to let her down easy when it came to words. It seemed trivial, but it was all Rowan had to give. He took a deep breath and exhaled, trying his best to defend himself with his knives. he had one more. One more to throw. Reaching to his waist, he ignored his agony and threw it her way. He prayed it would hit some mark, but he doubted it. Her reflexes were almost too quick to belong to a human, and his second throw had only grazed her. He was out of knives now, and the swords were heavy upon his back. He couldn't even dream of lifting those. He just hoped she didn't take them, for the moment she did she would know he was the Prince of Lydel. They had the crest on them. He tried getting to his feet in that moment, but her whip cracked and split the air. He knew he was in for it now. Bracing himself, he felt the sharp sting of whip on flesh as it wrapped around his wrist.

He didn't cry out because he would not show weakness again in front of her. Biting his tongue in effort to keep himself silent, he was suddenly jerked forward and went spiraling towards the ground once more. Now on his side, he was doing his best to get the whip unwrapped from his arm. It was not going well. Struggling to do it before she reached him, he knew it was in vain. The whip was too tight, and he was too weak for this. As she approached, he tried turning himself so that he could aim a swift kick her way, and only hoped that he had done something to hurt her. The good leg was all that he had to fight with as of now. However, he was sent reeling when she sent a swift kick to his mouth. Choking on the blood that was now pouring forth, Rowan managed to get up on his hands and knees. He would keep fighting. His spirit was going to be difficult to break, which she might already have realized. He felt like he was going to be sick because of the metallic liquid in his mouth, and he was definitely struggling against all of this. He didn't know how much more he could take before he did get knocked out from the pain and weakened state he was in.

Suddenly, his head was yanked upwards, and he reached for the wrist with his free hand to try and free himself. Her fingers dug into his hair, and he tried squeezing that wrist with all of his strength to try and get it to loosen. It was to no avail, and he was head butted because he was not successful. That contact sent him spinning, and he fought to control the waves of dizziness that were now overpowering him. Closing his eyes tightly, he was allowed freedom of his head, and he was back on his hands and knees. All of this was happening so fast. She kneed him in his face once more after that, and Rowan heard and felt the racking of his nose because of that hit. He refused to cry out though, but the blood pouring from his nose was thick and streaming. His face was going to be a mess by the end of this, for he was certain his eyes would be bruised from that knee as well. In one final attempt, she sent a kick to his already injured abdomen. Rowan fell to the ground in a heap, clutching his stomach, and finally crying out as the agony hit him. He didn't break though, even though he felt like he had been shattered because of the physical pain. Hearing her words through the cloud that was settling over his mind, he spoke out, his words full of hatred.

"I will never be your pet, you worthless excuse of a human."

He refused to fade into unconsciousness now, knowing she would only do more to hurt him. His once handsome face was swollen from the damage she had inflicted, and he was covered in blood. But he was still fighting. He would never give up. That was not the Stanforth way. She would see that he was one of the hardest she had to break.

[MISTRESS DENNA GODAVARI]

Denna smiled, her red lips shone in the dim light of the room, it was more serpent like than anything else about her. Stepping over his body, laughter rolled out of her body. He struggled with fighting to stay up, and the lull of defeat tempting him. "He doesn't want to give up....not just yet.." Denna circled the young warrior, admiring his features, his strong jawline, and his gorgeous form. "I like it when they fight back" She thought to herself, stepping close to his heaving body, she could feel him gasping for air. The kick she gave him must have winded him.

Blood was spotted allover the place, the wall, his clothes and a few drops has come to rest on the tip of her boots. Denna sighed, as she crouched to the floor,"You could not have fathomed what you were in for, when you came snooping in here." and then to a knee to straddle his back,"Did...you....little boy?" resting his arms at his side and pressing her knees onto his hands, and wrists, making him immobile.

Threading her fingers through his brown hair, gently caressing it, smiling at the softness, she slid her fingers upwards and gripped it tightly, lifting his head upwards. Throat unguarded. She leaned forward to gaze at the side of his face, and then slowly turned her lips to his ear to whisper. "You're a handsome one.....But. I'm sure you already know that, I bet you make all the maidens quiver...and beg for you to bed them" Directing his gaze toward the floor, the obvious blood pooling all around him, his vision blurry from the beating.

"See all that blood handsome?.......that's all you.....from me....and I promise there is more to come" The heat from her breath feathered against his skin, the pain and agony to come skimmed the surface. Going back to a crouch, Denna's grip still firmly placed on his head, brought him up to his knees, and rested a blade against the soft skin of his neck, and moved his cheek to her lips, Denna slowly licked away a few drops of blood,"We'll have lots of fun....you and I"