<div class="floatright">(http://i.imgur.com/4IltC5z.jpg)</div><br/>Zerxel said nothing as Kirsta began her exposition about how her plan had gone up in smoke upon entering the dungeon.  That wasn't so surprising though, considering the reality was always different from anything people like them could imagine.  Still, she went on to say that they had done well against the gobbers, and Zerxel smiled a little even as the human went on to say that every step they took together only lead her away from the Fiend.  She waved off Kirsta's concerns, knowing she'd find her way to another of her counselors if she had to.  The Blacksmith wasn't too far most likely, and if not, she had at least one other option if push came to shove, although the Dragon was her last choice, and not for the obvious reason she wasn't built for what he would likely ask of her.  But whatever the case, she nodded and started for the door, a grateful smile pulling at her lips for Kirsta's words and well meaning concerns.<strong>"It's fine.  I have a few other choices, and while the Fiend is indeed my first choice, it's not the only one I have, so yes, going with you isn't going to upset me too badly."</strong>She teased gently and looked over her shoulder at her companion.<strong>"Besides, I thought you'd enjoy the view from back there."</strong>She chuckled, and wiggled her scantily covered butt for added effect before sobering just as quickly.<strong>"In all seriousness though Kirsta, I meant what I've said before.  I'm not going to abandon a new friend, and you are a friend now that we've tested ourselves together in battle."</strong>Having said her piece, Zerxel nodded again when Kirsta suggested they get a move on.  It was sound advice, especially with the night fast approaching.  They'd want to get to safety before they got into trouble.<br/><br/>And it was a good thing they did, because as soon as they started out again, there was a sound like metal grinding against metal, and the sound of a powerful beast off in the distance.  It was more than enough to spur the pair onward, and Zerxel, even in her confidence of her skills, didn't relish the thought of contending with something that big.  The traps at least were easily avoided, and besides having to pull Kirsta back from a pit trap that contained a slime of some sort, there was no other close calls.  As for the beast that was hunting them, and the giant iron slab that would indeed no doubt slam down the moment they entered the next room, Zerxel only saw one option open to them.<strong>"I'd rather face whatever's ahead than whatever's behind us.  Let's go, now."</strong>The Drow said, and waited for Kirsta to cross the threshold ahead of her before following suit, stepping backwards so she could keep an eye on the passageway they had just come from.  If the beast that was following them came around the bend, she wanted to at least get a look at it, but she had no intention of fighting it.  She wasn't about to leave Kirsta behind now.  Besides, while this wasn't her counselor, she would likely be able to stand aside while Kirsta endured whatever challenge awaited her.  She would act as morale support if need be, and be on her way afterwards once it was over.  Of course, she was being optimistic, but if her choices were to face Kirsta in the ring and the monster at ther back, she'd rather go against the human first and foremost.  At least Kirsta wouldn't kill her outright, although before or after raping her was up for debate of course.