The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Solos =&gt; Topic started by: Dringdar on 11-11-2015, 00:20:48</h2>
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				Title: <strong>The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>11-11-2015, 00:20:48</strong>
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				(http://pre05.deviantart.net/79c2/th/pre/i/2012/211/b/d/knight_design_male_by_lorlandchain-d596vxd.jpg)<br><br>Dramasca had fallen. Conquered. Its king and royal family dead, and the castle desecrated, a thousand year reign of prosperity had been shattered. Its fall came not from invading armies, which the nation had battled successfully for a century, nor from famine, which had been one of the least concerns of its people for hundreds of years. Disease had not taken the grand country, and corruption had been contained for the most part... But not enough. Treason. That had been what had brought the Kingdom of Dramasca to its knees, and spilled royal blood for the first time since the countries founding. <br><br>The failure rested squarely on the shoulders of Sir James Brayden, the commander of the Knight Corps within the capitol city, and the last line of defense for the royal family. His knights, the best warriors from thirty noble houses, had been set the critical task, and they had failed. James knew better than to assume incompetence on his own part; he'd seen his own men, warriors who'd sworn to die on their blades before betray their king, stab the crown prince, and many others who they thought to be threats. James cut down two of the traitors, but he could do no more for his Lord, save to die. His honor was already forfeit, and as such it seemed the best choice.<br><br>The knight commander would not let his life end without meaning. He fled the castle, towards the stables. If word of this atrocity could be brought elsewhere, then the truth would survive. The knowledge that this nation had been stolen from its rightful rulers would be passed to others, and perhaps, in time, justice could be brought in some way to the dead. James knew not how. He knew only he had to try. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>11-11-2015, 01:48:01</strong>
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				(http://rpg.simplecommunion.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/c4f11416ab9b2b91a77edc312d8ec3af-d36ngyt.jpg)<br><br><br><br><br>Dahlia Foxglove was visiting Dramasca as the Royal Ambassador of Fiori which she took great pride in. She worked hard to get the position and excelled at her studies and training. Her uncle a member of the High Council, had finally given permission for her to become Ambassador. Dahlia worked hard to impress her uncle and the rest of the Council, her parents were exiled and it didn't look good for her. For her first official assignment she was to travel to Dramasca and ensure that their long standing treaty was still favorable with them. It was an easy assignment as the neighboring kingdoms had the treaty for hundreds of years and rarely had any problems. They united their fronts against the Orcs to the south of both kingdoms. <br><br>Dahlia and four members of the Elven Guard traveled hard for two days and nights to Dramasca and had been settled in for a couple days. Dahlia adored the Queen and her children, they were kind gracious hosts. She was scheduled to take tea with the Queen in her sitting room and was running late. Dahlia couldn't risk offending the Queen so she ran through the castle as fast as she could with her guards in tow. Before they could reach the Queen's rooms they heard the familiar sound of steel ringing, as they turned the corner they saw members of the Knights Corps fighting the Crown Prince in front of his mother's rooms. She orders her guards to assist him as she runs into sitting room, the scene in front of her is horrifying. The Queen and children lie dead surrounded by blood, Dahlia lets out a heart wrenching sob and flees. As she flees she yells in Elvish for her guards to meet her in the Stables. Dahlia stops by her rooms and changes into her riding gear and straps her sword to her waist and quiver to her back with her bow. <br><br>Dahlia is saddling her horse when Sir James Brayden enters the stables, she stops what she is doing and draws her sword. He was the Commander of the Knights Corps, the very knights that just slaughtered the Royal family. <br><br>“Halt there you treasonous wretch! I won't hesitate to run you through with my sword you sick bastard.” <br><br>Dahlia hoped she would not become the next victim, she had to get word out of what really happened. She wasn't going to have this pinned on her kingdom or herself, it couldn't be coincidence that they were slaughtered at the very time she was suppose to be there. If only she wasn't late perhaps her and her guards could have saved them.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>12-11-2015, 07:53:32</strong>
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				"Stay your blade elfling!" the knight commander shouted, while walking with haste towards the stables. The ambassador of Fiori; she'd survived the carnage it seemed. More important, she'd accused him of committing the atrocity. A ruse perhaps, to distract from her own guilt? Or a genuine expression of terror, for she'd likely seen the same violence he'd been forced to witness. He didn't know. He wasn't sure it mattered. The girl waved a blade around, though without armor, he was hardly intimidated. <br><br>"I am guilty of no crime, save perhaps cowardice. It matters not; my lord and his family are slain, and my vows broken! There is naught left for me but to tell the tale of this atrocity, that some day, some how, the fiends responsible might be brought to justice!" James stopped at sword's length from the elf. "Now step aside. I have more important matters to attend than crossing blades with one whom should be my ally!"
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>12-11-2015, 08:33:14</strong>
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				Dahlia couldn't believe the garbage this man was spewing, he was the Commander of murderers. I witnessed firsthand what had occurred, I saw poor little Daniel drained of blood. Who does that to a small child? Weren't knights suppose to have honor and loyalty? Better yet where was he when his merry little band of murderers slaughtered the Royal family in cold blood? Dahlia need some answers, and she needed the now.<br><br>She laughs bitterly in his face before moving her sword up a little higher to accommodate the height difference. “Stay my hand? Cowardice? Not guilty? Allies? Bah you must be out of your mind human. I saw what your little band of murderers did and you are their Commander. I'm not falling for it. The last thing I need is for some honorless Knight killing me and pinning this tragedy on my kingdom. I will not take the fall for this. Draw your weapon, or don't. Either way you are going down you treasonous bastard.” <br><br>Dahlia swiftly steps to the side whilst swinging her sword towards the knight, hoping to catch him off balance. She learned how to fight from the very best of the Elven Guard. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>12-11-2015, 09:09:05</strong>
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				James snorted at the girl's insistence; he'd heard that elves were arrogant, and while he'd never met one for any longer than a few minutes, this seemed to be true. What he'd not heard is they were violent; usually preferring their leisure, song and dance and art over war. Still, this one swung a deadly blade of steel, intending no doubt to kill him for the crime she perceived he'd ordered.<br><br>It was a logical assumption. He was knight commander, so naturally he'd given the order to exterminate the royal family. James performed a deft side step of his own, those his included a backwards motion. Longer legs and an attempt at retreat gave him the room he needed to avoid her keen edge without chore. In reply to her violence, he drew his own weapon, a heavy bastard sword which would do well for the bloody work of a knight. <br><br>"Arrogant bitch!" he spat, forgoing yet another vow he'd sworn. "Are you so narrow minded that you truly believe I am responsible for this crime? Why then am I at the stables, and not the throne room? Would I not be celebrating my victory were I involved?!"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>12-11-2015, 09:32:50</strong>
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				“You are no doubt out here looking for me, the witness and perfect scapegoat. I would go to the stables to prevent anyone from escaping and getting word out about your atrocities if I were in your position. No doubt your men will be joining you shortly if they are not already here somewhere. While I have a feeling my men are not going to join me out here; they at least died honorable deaths, unlike you in a moment.” <br><br>This foolish man actually thought she would believe him, I was not born yesterday. She had to finish this quickly for escape might not be an option if she stayed much longer. Dahlia must get word to her uncle, this changes everything for not just this kingdom but hers as well. The treaty was the very thing keeping them safe from the Orcs, with Dramasca descending into chaos there would surely be trouble. Damn him and his men. <br><br>Dahlia lets out a brief frustrated yell and dives forward tumbling just behind him and rising with a swing to his knee. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>13-11-2015, 21:48:06</strong>
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				She was a long winded, paranoid little thing; concocting such an idea in no less than mere moments, and expressing all of it in a single breath. James let out a gruff growl as the girl brought herself once more back to the art of war. She might have been elf trained, practiced for centuries, and experienced beyond belief...<br><br>But at the end of the day, it was still a little girl playing with swords as far as the knight commander was concerned. The way she threw herself into a roll, and then bounced on to her feet, all for the sake of a single strike, had him suspecting she had not the slightest clue of what she was doing. He shifted his right foot backwards and at an angle, so he would shift his posture towards her. When her dismembering strike was made, James retaliated by bringing his much heavier weapon into play. <br><br>He caught her strike in the middle of her blade, with the last ten inches of his. "I know not whether you are a stupid child, or a childish fool; had I wanted your life, I would not have approached without a sword drawn." James grasped his weapon with both hands, before pushing his weight into Dahlia's sword. He intended to rely on her natural instinct to resist such force; she would push back, and through power he would force her weapon into an envelopment. Once he had control of the girl's weapon, he could disarm her. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>14-11-2015, 02:05:42</strong>
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				Perhaps that wasn't the right move, but then again she practiced more in theory than reality. Plus he was a really big man, she was terrified. Dahlia had never been in any real combat, she was constantly surrounded by Elven Guards. Sir James reacted much more quickly than she had hoped and stopped her. <br><br>Wait… did he just call her a foolish child? The nerve of this man; how cocky, arrogant, and full of himself he must be. Just because he was a knight and slightly attractive and skillful and big. Oh dear where did attractive come into play? He was still a murderous bastard and she wasn't taking any chances. Dahlia was quite flustered and distracted, she didn't know if she could handle this. Perchance she was going into shock.<br><br>Dahlia once again moved to attack, but this time she was having a hard time as her blade was quite stuck. He was quite strong holding down her blade. She had no clue how to proceed so she thrust forward, a bit too hard and tumbled into him. <br><br>How embarrassing, she was suppose to be better trained than this. Dahlia turned to flee to her stallion even though he wasn't properly equipped just yet. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>14-11-2015, 09:16:13</strong>
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				For whatever reason, she chose instead of to try and free her blade from his envelopment, to throw herself at his body. James reflexively brought his arm up, but she was already inside his guard. However, when she didn't show signs of grabbing for a weapon, but merely instead seemed to be panicking, he responded by shutting his heavy left arm over her body, pinning her to his chest. <br><br>"You should consider yourself lucky I don't want you dead; you certainly would be if I did right now." he brought a hand up to the elf girl's head, and took a firm grip of her hair. "Come. You're coming with me. There's been enough death today, and I won't leave you to add to it." he wasn't exactly harsh or abusive with how he pulled her, but he was definitely not being gentle. He walked her towards the stables, where he would have her mount up upon her horse, and he would take his.<br><br>Hopefully they still had time to escape; her foolishness had taken up valuable time. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>14-11-2015, 09:55:08</strong>
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				Dahlia let out a loud embarrassing squeak when he pulled her to his chest, her earlier assessment was correct..he was indeed strong and very capable. She was such a fool to charge at him, practicing fighting was not the same as actually doing it. As he pulled her hair she let out yet another embarrassing noise, this time a squeal. She needed to get herself together and fast she thought as he led Dahlia to her horse by her hair.<br><br>Once on the horse she planned to make a run from him, she was a fairly good horse rider in her opinion. Dahlia hoped to escape as today was just not going in her favor, she didn't want to be in this barbarian’s presence any longer than she had to. Though she did now believe the man, he could've killed her but chose not to. All she had to do was buckle a few straps on Sweet Peas saddle before taking off, Gods be willing. <br><br>“Please let me go Sir James,I'll be on my way. I won't cause anymore trouble. I'm sorry for the misunderstanding, I'm scared and just want to leave.”<br><br>She had to be fast though for escape might not be possible for much longer.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>14-11-2015, 10:03:24</strong>
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				"Hush." he coldly declared. He took her into the stable, and it was there that he let go of her locks. If she thought he was done speaking to her like a stern mentor to a young student, she was sorely mistaken. "Find your horse." he commanded. "And be ready on my return." he turned his head to look down at the elf, who's voice had gone from accusing, to trembling in the span of a few seconds. Poor girl; she was probably terrified, and had wielded bravado as her single means of defense. Given her skills with her sword, such an expectation was... Reasonable. <br><br>If they separated now, the girl was very likely to join his king in death. He doubted she had memorized the trip from the castle, to her home. Even if she had, it would likely take a main road which the traitors were now in control of. They would have planned this for months, maybe years; to let even a single witness escape would doom them. As such, they would need to kill everyone. If James had his way however, then they would live at least long enough to reach Dahlia's kingdom. <br><br>The first step? He sought out his steed, a horse he'd ridden for nearly a decade, a powerful beast named Gungnir. Gently he pet the beast's muzzle. It nuzzled into his touch, and James smiled appreciatively. "Come on." he said to the animal, even as he begun the preparations to free it from its harnesses and restraints.<br><br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>14-11-2015, 18:27:54</strong>
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				Dahlia nodded her head in response to Sir James’s commands, she would agree to just about anything to get him to let go of her hair. She scurried over to Sweet Pea her honey brown stallion and started buckling the last couple straps of the saddle while gently petting his silky soft hair. Sweet pea belonged to her the second he was born, or rather she belonged to him. Her heart melted watching him on wobbly legs trying to walk after he was born, he curiously wobbled his way over to her and nuzzled her. She was suppose to pick a horse with no distinguishing marks, Sweet Pea had two patches of white hair; one between his eyes, and the other on his rear end and they were perfect imperfections. She managed to convince her uncle to allow her to have him, she had spent so much time with him that she had grown quite attached and couldn't bear to lose him. <br><br>Dahlia untied Sweet Pea’s lead and led him out of the stables while gently petting him trying to reassure herself that all will be ok. She looked back at Sir James and saw him working on his horse with what appeared to be a smile on his face. He looked so much better smiling than with his scowl, regardless he was an arrogant bastard giving her commands like a small child. She needed to get away and go on her own as going with him would be maddening; though going with him would mean some sort of protection since her guards had never arrived. Dahlia debated with herself for a moment before deciding to go on her own..yes definitely escaping.<br><br>Dahlia swung up into the saddle and grabbed Sweet Pea’s reins gently nudging him forward so that they could get away without him noticing hopefully. Sweet pea moved forward and stopped abruptly, there in front of them was a stable boy holding a sword bigger than his arm. He clearly didn't know how to use it, but that didn't mean he couldn't harm Sweet Pea. Dahlia calmly removed her bow and an arrow raising it and taking aim at the young man's slender filthy frame before speaking. “Boy you will be dead before you make it to me, I suggest you turn around and leave now.” Dahlia sighed heavily wondering if they paid him to keep watch over the stables, now her easy escape was once again foiled.
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>14-11-2015, 20:41:53</strong>
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				Gungnir's coloration was mundane; he had some splotches of darker fur here and there, but mostly he was a brown horse. James, unlike Dahlia, didn't need a horse who was easily hidden. Typically the only situations where identifying the animal would matter were made irrelevant by it's worn armor. James wished he had time to dress his war beast in plates of iron, but given their desire to escape as opposed to fight, it might be more beneficial for them to not have an armored and obvious horse.<br><br>Next though, he heard the little elf's voice, once more filled with her bravado. He looked over, half expecting her to be speaking to him, only to take sight of a thirteen year old stable lad. "Colin." James snapped at the boy, and to his amusement, the sword clattered to the floor. "Get over here. I need your assistance." he fumbled with his straps and buckles, while waiting for Colin to come over to him. The boy would help him to ready his mount more quickly. Once he had his saddle put on Gungnir, he could scoop the boy up, and trio would escape. Colin's help would let them prepare the horse even more rapidly. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>15-11-2015, 03:46:37</strong>
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				Dahlia snorted a little when the boy Colin dropped his sword. She couldn't help it as she knew she was pretty pathetic in trying fight Sir James, but to see someone else succumb to it made her feel better. The kid dropped his sword and ran to his beck and call. As if Dahlia would ever do that, he thought he could give her orders but he was sadly mistaken. She put away both arrow and bow into the quiver and checked her sword, she really needed to learn to keep her cool in combat as she had the training to fight. Dahlia watched as the boy helped saddle up the horse and remember she was suppose to be sneaking out. Damn it all, that frustratingly arrogant man was so distracting, so she took the chance while he was occupied with the horse and boy. <br><br>Dahlia dug her heels into Sweet Pea’s length and set him off in a canter out of the barn heading towards the closet way out of the kingdom. She didn't know her way around well as the last time she visited she was but a child and didn't have the chance to explore and this time was filled with meetings. She would rather deal with finding her way then following that man around like he was not charge. Dahlia let out a snort of disgust and quickly looked around, this man was really grating her nerves. She couldn't figure out why she was obsessing over him, well it's probably better than thinking about the dead family.
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>15-11-2015, 06:31:46</strong>
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				It didn't take James too long with the aid of Colin to have his horse saddled and ready to leave. A glance left had him steaming however, as he realized the elfling girl was gone. "Damn that woman." he grumbled, even as he lifted his right foot into the stirrup. With Colin's aid, he got his left over the horse, and into its place. "Thanks lad. This fucking armor..." a shrug, and he was pulling the young man up. Colin sat directly in front of James, and leaned forward some so as to hold on more tightly. <br><br>The knight command gave a light toss of the reins; Gungnir responded approvingly, and set out at a light trot to escape the stable. Much to James' relief, no one seemed to have come out of the castle just yet. No one seemed to be looking for them. Convenient luck? Or a trap? The man bit his lower lip, then kicked the horse lightly in the size. "Hyah." he commanded. The horse fell into a slow gallop. Quick, but durable. He saw no signs of Dahlia anywhere, despite his repeated looks in all directions. <br><br>Hopefully he'd not lost her.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>15-11-2015, 10:06:59</strong>
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				Dahlia glanced around when she was far enough and noticed she lost him, but was in an area with small buildings super close together. They were in great disrepair and there was rubble everywhere. She reached into her saddlebags and grabbed a cloak to mask herself, as Elves were not common in this area despite the treaty. She adjusted her quiver so she could fit the cloak under it, the cloak would disguise her well in what appeared to be a bad area. She didn't need anymore trouble than she already had. <br><br>Dahlia speedily made her way through the city hoping to make her way out soon, she would worry about the rest later..if there was a later. She soon found herself at a crossroads with a bridge near by, she was starting to want to kick herself for not sticking with Sir James until after they were out. She sat idly on Sweet Pea before noticing a small shop nearby, it probably wouldn't warrant too much trouble to check it out and get directions. <br><br>The shop was clean and well stocked, it carried general goods which was fortunate for Dahlia. She took her time shopping around and managed to come up with; basic camping gear, candles, rope, bread, hard cheeses, apples, and a flask. She had a feeling staying at inns would be difficult at first, so she was glad to have the gear. The shop owner was a gentle looking man with graying hair and the brightest blue eyes, he was most kind and gave her directions on a little handmade map. She paid him and quickly left, she figured someone wealthy would be memorable. <br><br>As she was packing Sweat Pea with the extra gear she saw Sir James and the stable ride by. Dahlia snorted at the sight of the two men on the horse together then immediately panicked. “Gods be damned!” She cursed and muttered about how annoying this man was. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>15-11-2015, 20:32:01</strong>
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				Call it coincidence. Dahlia had no idea where she was going. James knew precisely where he was headed. The result being that she, by chance, found the same route the knight was traveling. As it turned out, for whatever reason, the path chosen by the elf was the fastest way out of the city. Maybe it was some sixth sense of elves, that let them know directions instinctively. Maybe it was divine intervention, some goddess taking pity upon the girl. Perhaps it was dumb luck. Whatever it was, James soon was riding up towards the girl. <br><br>"Are you daft woman?" he demanded of her, his eyes staring at hers. "Just, running off like that? No words to anyone?" The knight snorted. The girl could have very easily been captured. Then he'd have had that death on his mind too... And he knew better. If these men were so callous and lacking in honor that they were willing to kill their own king, then the rape and torture of an elf girl for information and pleasure was almost a certain. His eyes narrowed. <br><br>James wasn't taking anymore chances. "You have two choices now. Either you tie your horse to mine, preventing us from separating, or Colin takes your mare, and you ride with me. Pick. Now."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>16-11-2015, 02:05:00</strong>
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				Dahlia cursed herself inwardly as they spotted her and approached, this was just her luck, she couldn't shake this man for the life of her. Though he did look funny riding with stable boy, she smirked at them as they approached. <br><br>Dahlia cocked her eyebrow and put her hands on her hips before speaking to Sir James. “Who do you think you are talking to me like that? Last time I checked YOU were not in my chain of command, now are you? NO! I don't take orders from you, now I will be on my way. I have a map and shall be fine. Plus you two look awfully cozy.” <br><br>Dahlia quickly mounted Sweet Pea and went to leave...in the wrong direction as she was so flustered she misread the map. The arrogance of that man treating her like a small child and ordering her around. She muttered curses and how she hoped he would catch something from a whore and have his manhood shrivel up, that would surely drop that maniacs ego. “Just great that barbarian has me talking to myself, he makes me so angry.”
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>16-11-2015, 03:28:30</strong>
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				"Are you truly so blind to this situation? Is it possible for one to be that dense?" James trotted Gungnir over so he was along side the girl. "You might not have noticed it, but the royal family has been murdered. That we escaped unharmed, is nothing short of a miracle granted by the gods. Further, that we have not yet been pursued is even more amazing. You are without guard, and are a little girl who thinks that rolling about in the dirt is an effective combat maneuver." <br><br>"If the men who are responsible for this atrocity find you, you will be killed, and likely tortured. I know not what their goal is. I do know that we are likely among a very small group of survivors who are not apart of this conspiracy." James started to turn his horse around. "If you insist on traveling alone, then fine. We will part ways the moment we reach the edge of this province. From there we will be more difficult to find. Further more, there will be different directions for us to head. As it stands? I am going that way." he pointed in the same direction her map suggested. <br><br>"And I recommend you follow if you want to live."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>16-11-2015, 04:35:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dahlia looked at him with her mouth hanging open, she was infuriated with him. He kept treating her like a child when she did just fine thus far, she was an ambassador! She admittedly might not be the best fighter but she was good at other things. Her uncle and council wouldn't have sent her otherwise right? Not only was she angry but she was still incredibly upset by what she saw and now doubting herself. Perhaps she was reaching a mental breakdown or going into shock… she didn't know or care at the moment.<br><br>Dahlia lined Sweet Pea up with his horse and maneuvered so both her legs on one side, she leaned over and slapped him. “You arrogant man, stop acting all high and mighty. It was your Knights that killed the family and you never knew something was out of place. Stop talking down to me like I'm worthless.” <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>17-11-2015, 07:32:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He let out a grunt as her hand impacted his cheek, while his head and face was turned to the side from the force. James waited a moment, then turned back to her. <br><br>"Worthless?" he asked, scowling. "I've spoken to you as I would to any fool who's abilities are as minimal as your own. You are a politician trying to play at... Well, I do not know. But as it is, I doubt highly that your success during the past hour is due to anything less than your own luck." James shifted his positioning, so that his horse was blocking Sweet Pea from going forward.<br><br>"I'm aware I failed in my duties. Because I did not foresee treason among my compatriots, and because I did not recognize the growing coup, my king and all whom I was bound by laws and honor to serve were slaughtered. My failures there will haunt me the rest of what is likely to be a very short life. However, I am one of a small number of survivors capable of telling this story. You and I alone may be able to bring word of this to others. What good it will do, I know not." <br><br>He pointed at her. "But I do know that letting you travel on your own is not wise. And I do know that your insistence on acting impulsively is the most substantial danger we currently face. Second most is your pitiful sword play. All of your hostility to me seems based upon your own initially formed assumptions of me; that I am a criminal, guilty by association and naught else."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>18-11-2015, 09:24:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dahlia’s face started to turn pink as a blush started to slowly creep up her neck, she was thoroughly embarrassed. She had been acting selfishly and foolishly, he was right. She was treating the poor man as a criminal and just rubbed his face into the guilt he must be feeling.<br><br>&nbsp;Dahlia wasn't the only one affected by today's events, she was scared and frustrated as she felt so inexperienced. She started to doubt herself and her capabilities, what if she was sent here on purpose. Her parents were traitors and she was always treated as a lesser being, what if this had been a setup from the start. Surely if the enemy could infiltrate here, they could do the same to her kingdom. She was so happy to be chosen as an ambassador that she never thought of the hows and whys. <br><br>Tears started to fall down her face, he was right about everything. She was quite pathetic; her sword play, decision making, naivete, and arrogance. Dahlia looked up at Sir James through her lashes and examined him carefully, she knew he spoke the truth. The way he carried himself with confidence, honesty, honor, and surety was written all over his body language how had she been so blind. She started to cry a little more and wrung her small slender hands in her lap, the tears trailed down her cheeks and landed gently upon her cloak.&nbsp; <br><br>After a few moments Dahlia composed herself and looked back up at Sir James meeting his eyes before she softly spoke. “I'm very sorry Sir James, you have done nothing to gain my ill will or warrant my rudeness. I have been acting like a spoiled naive brat and I apologize.” Dahlia slowly gathered up Sweet Pea’s black leather reins and held them out for Sir James to take. “I'll listen to you for now. Perhaps the ladies would be more comfortable riding with me as I have more room.” She scooted up a little a gently motioned to the spot next to her. <br><br>Dahlia wasn't going to rub salt in his wounds again, she had a lot to make up for. Perhaps he'd forgive her if she stayed quiet and followed his orders, and helped when she was useful. She wasn't sure about going back to her kingdom though, something didn't sit right with her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>19-11-2015, 06:17:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She went through by far the most rapid change in personality he'd seen in recent years. From angry and hateful and accusatory, to behaving like he was a minor nuisance who needed to be swatted, to cry and sobbing, and then finally to agreeing to let him lead and be in charge. James found himself staring at her, his expression wearing no small amount of irritation. <br><br>"Apology accepted. Now come. We need to get out of the capitol province before night fall. The sooner we're out of the country, the safer we'll be." and once out of the country, he can send her off to her own people, to her kin; once out of his hair, he'd no longer need to worry about her safety and life. He suspected with time he might come to tolerate her, and if it came to it, even like her company. For the moment, and as far as he could consider for the next few weeks of their life, he suspected they would butt heads often. <br><br>"I expect you can read that map? Otherwise, pass it to myself." he extended an arm. "We will need it, so as to attempt to utilize roads and trails which will be less guarded." <em>"But then, I'm assuming we even need to be cautious; perhaps whoever committed this crime fears no legal retribution. Or worse, it could simply be the first in many acts of war... Hopefully it is naught but a coup by some arrogant fool."</em> 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>20-11-2015, 05:26:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With everything going on in Dahlia’s head it was a relief that Sir James was still his prickly self, she had to remember to keep her cool around him though as she had a bit of a temper. With a pout she hands him the map and has Colin climb on Sweet Pea in front of her. She figured it would appease the Knight instead of her having to ride with him, she also didn't feel like riding so it would be nice to rest her eyes while Colin did the work. Dahlia had a lot to think about, so many conflicting thoughts and feelings, she couldn't help but feel like she was given the short stick. <br><br>Dahlia got cozy behind Colin and leaned her head on the boy before addressing the Knight again. “Lead the way Knight, I trust you know what you're doing. I'll just rest my eyes and leave you in peace for the ride, so no worries about me causing any trouble. I bought camping equipment just in case we need it and some other useful stuff.” <br><br>Dahlia tried to get comfortable behind Colin but she couldn't, so she looked at anything besides Sir James as they traveled. Soon her stomach let out an embarrassing growl, she was hungry since she hadn't eaten a morsel since the night before. She was supposed to have Tea with the Queen this morning but that wasn't the case obviously. Dahlia leaned over and went through the saddle bags looking for the food until she managed to pull out three apples, one for each of them. She handed two apples to Colin as she whispered in his ear. “One of these is yours, hand the other to the Knight please. Thank you.” <br><br>Satisfied she wouldn't have to bother Sir James she started to eat her juicy red apple, it was tart and sweet at the same time. She moaned while she ate it, unaware she was doing so she continued eating her favorite fruit. The apples were in season and at the peak of their ripeness, a rare treat to find in some parts. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>21-11-2015, 23:11:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				They rode for a good while; an hour or so by the sun's positioning. James found himself worried. Paranoid perhaps. They'd seen no signs that this coup was anything less than disgruntled soldiers killing without thought or purpose. It was... Extremely concerning and worrisome. Still, there would be time to think on it when they reached safety. Until then, it was best to focus on traveling, and to get as far as possible, as quickly as possible. <br><br>Colin poked at James. "Sir? Are you hungry?" the boy asked, while offering the knight a humble and simple apple. James smiled, and took the fruit. "Thank you Colin. Where did you get these?" he questioned, even as he proceeded to rub the fruit with his sleeve. Colin hesitated. "The saddle bags sir." James shrugged, then took a bite. Colin did likewise. Soon enough though, it was... Difficult to not notice the sounds of an elf woman. James looked to her, eyes narrowed. She was moaning, her taste buds quivering as the fruit stimulated her tongue. <br><br>James slowly turned back to his front, clearly just a wee bit irritated and equally amused. He ate the fruit, and Colin did likewise, though the young lad was clearly more interested in Dahlia than the road ahead. "A-are you okay miss?" the boy asked nervously.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>22-11-2015, 10:01:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dahlia finished her apple and tossed it on the ground and let out a content sigh. She leaned her head over Colin’s shoulder as he addressed her and rested her chin on his shoulder. “Yeah I'm fine why buddy?” Dahlia was thoroughly confused as to why he would think something was wrong. Colin’s face turned the brightest shade of red as he responded. “Nothing, nevermind Miss.” Dahlia shrugged it off as him just seeing if she was comfortable. <br><br>Dahlia cuddled into Colin’s back and tried to fall asleep once again, but Colin started to shift uncomfortably in front of her. She looked at him oddly and wondered if he didn't like her leaning against him, though she didn't see much of an option as they were on a horse. Looking behind her to make sure she didn't fall she cautiously moved backwards on Sweet Pea while gripping Colin’s arm for support. Colin suddenly moved to watch her and Dahlia lost her grip and fall backwards off Sweet Pea. <br><br>Dahlia landed with a thud and curled herself up into a ball as she started to cry. She carefully cradled her ankle and rocked back and forth. It hurt so bad that she didn't think she could stand up and walk on it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>23-11-2015, 01:49:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Colin gasped as the girl fell. "Oh no!" he cried out, and lunged for her; he missed. James heard the sobbing, and he gave a light tug on Gungnir's reigns; the horse stopped. <br><br>"Keep the horses." James ordered, while sliding off his mount, and moving with urgency towards the curled up elven girl. He heard her sobbing and watched as she wriggled about like a small child in pain. It was completely pitiful. Still, the knight knelt near her, and gently enveloped her with his arms. <br><br>"Easy, come on now..." he said softly, while trying to persuade her to uncurl and unravel. "It's okay, you're gonna be okay... Let me see." it wasn't a terrible fall; he suspected her injuries would be minimal, a painful sprain or at worse a fracture. The latter would be difficult to deal with, but the former was no trouble. He just needed her to hold still so he could look at it properly. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>23-11-2015, 04:37:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dahlia watched Sir James with wide eyes as he tried to help her out, he enveloped her in his arms and she nearly squeaked at his touch. She had made a promise not to cause trouble and she had failed already, she was just trying to help Colin as he seemed uncomfortable. Dahlia bet herself that he was going to scold her about responsibilities and behaving and whatever else he could conjure up.<br><br>Dahlia refused to allow him access to her ankle and kept wiggling around, she didn't need his help. She looked up and saw the guilt and shame on Colin’s face, but it was an accident and she didn't plan on blaming him. <br><br>Dahlia grasped his shoulders and stood, she was almost completely up when she started to fall once again. “I'm sorry for the delay Sir James, I'll remount Sweet Pea and we can be on our way. I didn't mean to cause trouble. I do not think I need your help. Thanks though.” Dahlia stared into his eyes as she spoke.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>23-11-2015, 19:19:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Just hush and hold still." James demanded, eyes rolling. She, of course, responded by doing the opposite; trying to stand. He caught hold of her before she could fall, and fortunately she herself had a decent grip, so even with one foot not supporting weight, she didn't collapse. The knight shifted his grip so that he was holding her in a more forceful posture, though given the circumstance, it was useful for making her sit. <br><br>He couldn't force her to extend her leg without risking more serious injury. He needed her to do it voluntarily, bit by bit, until her leg was fully stretched out. Once that was done, he could move this along. "Please relax your leg. Hold still. I need to see if its broken. You lost your chance to decline my help when you curled up into a ball. Now cooperate and we can get this over with."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>24-11-2015, 07:07:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dahlia gasped as he manhandled her into a sitting position but was ok with it since her leg really hurt. She slowly relaxed her leg some and stretched it a little at a time, it was quite painful and appeared swollen already. Remembering what he said about her curling up into a ball made her cheeks redden and to look anywhere but at him. “I curled up because the fall was quite shocking and it hurt, but not only that is was embarrassing. I was just trying to give the boy some space because he didn't seem comfortable with me. I didn't mean to cause you more trouble. Let's just go, I'll tend to my ankle later.”<br><br>She stretched her leg out with great care and put a smile on her face. “See just fine, just another foolish mishap by the irritating girl.” Dahlia snapped out without realizing it. She knew he was quite exasperated with her already and really was trying not to draw unnecessary attention from him to herself. Sighing heavily she looked in his general direction but not at him. “Sorry. If you don't mind if could use some help getting back up on Sweet Pea, I'm sure my ankle is fine.” Dahlia moved to stand once again,placing her hands on his strong broad shoulders. The positions they were in felt to intimate to Dahlia and she blushed even more. It was bad enough that she was a completely crazy earlier and he hated her but to have a bit of a crush on him was unreasonable. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>26-11-2015, 20:54:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Just hush." he commanded, eyes rolling in his skull. Her desire to not be seen as weak was evident; it was also pointless, for to him, she'd already proven herself in need of supervision. Her extended leg though did allow him to ignore her, and instead move towards checking her ankle. Of course however, she was insistent on being non-cooperative, and then began to get up again.<br><br>"Sit down." James ordered with an exasperated tone. Her hands on his shoulders for balance told him that her ankle, despite her insistence otherwise, was in pain. That she was asking for help in mounting her horse was yet another nail in the coffin that she was hurting. James, losing patience with her quickly, looked up at her with a scowl. <br><br>"Sit down. Hold still. Let me look at your ankle. Its a liability if you're hurt, and I want to be able to adapt a plan based on a serious injury. Now <em>please</em> sit down <em>now</em>."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>27-11-2015, 20:02:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dahlia sat on Sir James's lap when he ordered her to sit and lifted her hurt leg up so he could check it out. "I'm sorry, I just don't like being a burden. It's probably just swollen and sprained, it'll be fine. As you can tell I'm not exactly an adventurer or have worldly experiences. I have combat training of sorts but have never used it in a real situation. I've never really have had to deal with sprains or other injuries, so you might say this is a bit of a shock to me. I never thought I was so poorly prepared or trained until now. I'm starting to think my whole life is a set up. It would be a convenient and ironic way to get rid of me. My parents are exiled and many opposed me staying, guilty by association. I was so happy to be ambassador that I never really thought of how odd it was I recieved the honor so easily. I have been a naive pawn in a bigger game it seems.." Dahlia cut herself off realizing she was babbling and confiding in you at the same time.<br><br>While biting her lips to stop herself from speaking more nonsense she gently and slowly relaxed her leg extending and stretching it towards his hand. She really needed to stop putting herself into these situations, it was bad enough the Knight was exasperated with her and her shenanigans. "What now? Is it ok?" She whispered into his ear and leaned her head onto him as he examined her ankle. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>28-11-2015, 08:21:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She blabbered and talked and went on and on and on; James caught the important details, namely her exiled parents, and her sudden realization of being set up. While she did this, James was lightly touching along her lower leg, carefully examining bones and tendons and joints for any obvious damage. There was nothing that he found, which reinforced his suspicion she was merely stunned and shocked to fall. He reached, at last, the delicate ankle, and felt around gingerly, stroking and rubbing. <br><br>"Any pain?" he asked as he lightly squeezed her ankle. "Does this hurt? Can you wiggle your foot?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>28-11-2015, 08:40:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dahlia nodded her head and slowly moved her ankle around in a circle. Turning her head so he couldn't see her face she bit her lip and winced. It hurt but she'd live, like she had said multiple times already.<br><br>"See its good to go, I'll hop back on Sweet Pea and we'll be on our way. We are almost a safe distance aways to split up. I'll head off on my own when we get a bit further. There is a path you can follow to get to my kingdom, you might want to avoid it. Thank you for checking my ankle." She stood and gritted her teeth while putting a hand out for him to shake. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>03-12-2015, 22:17:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It'll suffice." James said, upon deciding her ankle was sprained at the worst. Carefully he stood up, and once she extended a hand, he took it firmly. "Up you go." The elvish ambassador would be easily enough helped into her horse, so long as she put her weight first on her unharmed leg. Then they could resume their ride; hopefully this time with no further troubles or detours. The sooner they escaped the capitol province, the sooner James could breathe a sigh of relief. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>04-12-2015, 17:18:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Once back up on the horse she settled in and was ready to be on their way, patting the boy's shoulder she signaled for him to go. Shortly into the ride she started to drift asleep and gently laid her head upon the boy not wanting to startle him. The surroundings were hypnotizing with lots of greens mixed with gray dreary skies. The colors started to bleed into each other as she closed her eyes and fell into a deep sleep. <br><br>Her sleep was restless and her dreams were filled with deep dark emotions and memories she'd rather not remember, they were fit to be nightmares. It was safe to say Dahlia was emotional and quite a wreck when it came to knowing who or what to be, being herself was unacceptable to her uncle. She was raised in such a way that you wouldn't wish it upon your enemy, the torture and brainwashing she went through would make a grown man quit. It was amazing she wasn't completely devoid of emotions, though she had managed to block off most of her memories and replace them with fake ones. Dear old “Uncle Erzak” was a cruel man and heavy handed, making Dahlia skittish and eager to please. Truthfully he wasn't really her uncle but she was unaware of that fact and to what really happened to her parents. Now she was a broken version of herself, almost childish in some aspects and very stubborn. Dahlia was part of something so much bigger and she was completely clueless to it.<br><br>One thing she did know was that she was never going back to her kingdom, she had such volatile emotions when she thought about it. It conflicted with her memories and orders she had received, but she had to trust her instincts. After seeing the Queen and her children bathed in blood after growing attached during her visit, her psyche cracked. Seeing how affectionate and kind the people here were opened her eyes, and she knew something was not right with herself. <br><br>More and more memories were bleeding into her dreams and her terror grew with each one. The deaths of the Royal family were her fault, her Uncle orchestrated the entire thing. Dahlia was just an ignorant distraction, decoy, and an excuse to have more knights on hand. A sense of vengeance was starting to grow in her as she slept, she would avenge herself and the royal family. She would get to the bottom of it and the truth would come out whether she or anyone else, liked it or not. <br><br>Wiping tears from her eyes as she awoke, she glanced around to make sure no knew noticed her tears. She kept her head flat against Colin and was relieved she was facing away from the knight, she couldn't let him read her guilt or other emotions. This was something she'd keep to herself for now. Cleaning up her face as she sat up she noticed they made it out of the province unharmed. <br><br>Glancing at the knight she spoke, her voice steady and devoid of emotion. “I've changed my mind, Sir James. I shall accompany you and help spread the news, but we shall avoid Fiori. It's not wise to head into a trap, they're expecting us. Dramasca shall have its story told, and hopefully it will be avenged. Please trust me.” Sighing deeply and looking around the area she knew nothing would be the same but she had to be brave. “Where shall we head next? I would also like to ask a favor, would you be willing to teach me how to handle a sword properly. I'm obviously ill taught with it.” Pulling out a water flask she awaited his answer as she she sipped and passed it over. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>09-12-2015, 07:30:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dahlia's comments were thrown at him unexpectedly, quickly, and in a tone of voice and order which said to the knight she was rambling; sleep deprived. Perhaps breaking only just then from nightmare or terrors of the mind. Perhaps dehydration. Or equally likely the trauma of earlier that day was only just now sweeping through her head and heart. The knight tried to make sense of it. Most of it was... It wasn't gibberish. It was words, clear English, but it was... jumbled in such a way that it was not easily comprehensible. <br><br>One thing he'd heard for certain however, was sword play. She wanted to learn to handle a blade properly. Not the piss poor showing she'd used against him, but the clear, clean combat that would be utilized by properly trained warriors. James blinked at her, then shrugged at her. "I'll see if I can't help you to learn sword play." he declared. "It won't be the elegant art of elves... But given the needs we have, human technique should be sufficient for you."<br><br>James pointed at her. "The rest of what you said. Trust you, you'll follow me, we need to avoid Fiori; I'm not sure at all what you mean by most of that. Can you explain, a bit more slowly, and in complete sentences, what exactly you mean with those statements?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>13-12-2015, 18:17:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Letting out a long low sigh she looked up at him and made eye contact while grimacing. She wasn't sure if she should tell him, he'd probably kill her, though she deserved it. Making up her mind she took a deep breath and tried explaining the best she could, but all that came out was “It's my fault they're dead.”. <br><br>She put on a brave face and immediately went to correct her statement, but part of it rang true. “Fiori’s behind this I'm sure of, I was used as a scapegoat and to get men close enough for the chance to attack. I'm starting to recall things I've seemed to have forgotten, my memories come back to in similar situations, like triggers. I can't explain it but I'm not going to Fiori and you're a fool if you go. It'll surely lead to u our death as well as the boys, you don't want that. One day...justice will be had. If only I could remember more..” Dahlia started to stare off into space and get lost in thought, pondering how to make her memories comeback. <br><br>To him she must've seemed crazy, babbling about memories as she only gave him bits and pieces. Her mind wouldn't settle, she was still quite unnerved by the nightmares she'd had. The feeling of guilt she has was growing as well as her frustration, if only she could remember without all the negative things involved. The only thing she could think of was reenacting things she had been through, but it was horrifying the first time round so how could she do it again. She had a feeling that anyone involved with her would be in danger, perhaps she should just go her own way to save them the trouble. <br><br>Dahlia was having a hard time keeping her thoughts straight and she just wanted to run in fear, it was what she did best. Her emotions were so conflicting, it was surely because of memories returning. Perhaps locking herself away would be the best way to remember, it would leave her more stable. Deciding she had to do this and discover the bits and pieces of herself that were missing, she made her mind up to leave. <br><br>Looking around she had noticed Colin was off relieving himself and she had Sweet Pea to herself. Moving up in the saddle she looked over at the Knight and furrowed her eyebrows. “I'm sorry. This isn't actually a good idea. I'm just a big ol’ ball of crazy, it's probably better for you to go on without me. I've got to take care of something. Good bye.” With that, she started to canter off with Sweet Pea, hoping fortune would smile upon her. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>15-12-2015, 05:42:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				What, on the..? She fell back into speaking, and not a single word of it seemed to be focused. Fiori, whomever that was, was mentioned as the perpetrator. She claimed to have been an unwitting participant in the assassination. Him traveling with her, she claimed, would doom them all. Then, the woman promised justice would come only through them living; she was correct there, though she was also mimicking his comments. When all was said, James was left staring, confused as to what the actual fuck she was trying to say.<br><br>Then, to compound his irritation, she decided the best way to deal with the situation was not to explain things, but to turn and ride off into... Wherever she was heading. She turned her horse, and started trotting off. James, at last, had had enough. He maneuvered Gungnir in front of the elf woman, and shot her a glare. He was not in the mood for this. <br><br>"You are intentionally being frustrating." he accused. "Speaking in absolute nothingness. Rambling, talking about things of which you have some understanding, but clearly not full knowledge of. I'm tired of listening to you confuse me, and more so I have had enough of you being disobedient. Let me state this clean and clear for you; you will not survive on your own. Do you understand that? If you leave, you will die. Maybe not through stroke of sword, but you will not live without me."<br><br>He pointed straight at her. "You claim you were used to get in close. That means that the ease of our escape was not accident, but planned. If we part ways, then we are fewer. There is strength in groups, far more of it indeed. You are going no where. Do you understand?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>17-12-2015, 19:32:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Intentionally frustrating you? Ha. You wish, you irritating man. You're the one being intentionally frustrating! You're constantly demeaning me by talking down to me as if you were better than me. What a joke. Traveling with you makes me nervous and uncomfortable. Talking nonsense? Disobedient? Ha! Should I get down on all fours and heel?” Dahlia growled at him in frustration and anger, who did he think he was. The arrogance back in full force just as she was beginning to tolerate him and maybe like him. <br><br>Sick of everything around her and having no control she screamed out like a child throwing a tantrum. Her head was spinning and she was confused, all she wanted was to clear her head and have some semblance of normalcy. He was so angry that tears began falling down her face and her hands were shaking, itching to hit something. “Get out of my way! I'd rather take my chances on my own rather than continue you on with you. I shall not return to Fiori, if they want me dead then so be it. It'd give me peace of mind finally and end this torture.” Dahlia tried to move around him on her horse but only managed to find up parallel to him so that they were side by side. Out of frustration she struck out towards him with her tiny fists and growled at him to get out of the way. “If you want obedience go get a pet, now out of my bloody way!”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>22-12-2015, 07:48:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				That was it. That was the last straw. The Knight listened to her doing just as described; she threw her bloody, childish tantrum, and when at last she finished, and started to try and ride past, he responded swiftly. He maneuvered Gungnir for the thousandth time in front of Sweet Pea, stopping her entirely. He pointed at her, scowling angrily, and shooting daggers with his eyes. <br><br>"If you do not listen to me, do as I say, and shut your ignorant little mouth, then you will find yourself hogtied and gagged until I say otherwise. Do you understand me?" <br><br>With his warning issued, he turned his head towards Colin. The lad, bless him, was standing off to the side, eyes on the dirt, obviously trying not to draw attention to himself; he didn't want to get any of his leader's tongue lashing. Wisdom beyond his years. James turned his head back to Dahlia. <br><br>"Answer me, now."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>03-01-2016, 01:21:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				At his command she scoffed and turned Sweet Pea around and started to go the other way. She wasn't going to stay with him if he was going to continuously give her commands and boss her around as if she were one of his underlings, that went oh so well with his actual underlings. Laughing bitterly she glared at him over her shoulder to make sure he was leaving her alone. <br><br>James was funny thinking she'd allow him close enough for him to even think about tying her up and gagging her. She really just couldn't believe he was threatening her when she was simply doing what she thought best. Looking over her shoulder one last time she called out to him quite brattily. “Go kick rocks, you're not the boss of me. I'll do as I please, I doubt you could convince me otherwise.” 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>03-01-2016, 05:33:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Gods preserve me."</em> he thought to himself, before with a snarl of frustration, he began to move his stallion once more. He rode the large horse towards the woman, and up to the point at which he was alongside her. James didn't plan on giving her time to cause anymore trouble. He reached out for her, for any part of her. It didn't matter what he got ahold of, so long as his grip was sturdy. He was going to pull this spoiled little child right out of her saddle. Once off Sweet Pea, it'd be easy enough to get her restrained. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>03-01-2016, 12:09:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				At the sudden grip upon her thigh she shrieks and turns to see James reaching for her. In frustration Dahlia makes a fist and swings at him, hoping to punch him in his smug face. Hasn't she made herself perfectly clear and tell him she wished to be left alone? She grew up with enough bullies to want to be stuck with yet another. "Are you dense, human? I told you I wish to go separate ways! Get your hands off of me!" Shrieking at him as she tried to speed Sweet Pea up unsuccessfully as his horse was distracting her, Dahlia took another swing at him. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>08-01-2016, 06:56:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When she took her first swing, James ducked it. The girl hit as poorly as she used a blade, and even had she landed the blow, he doubted it would have caused him much pain. "You, will, die!" he growled right back. "Don't you understand that? You aren't going to get out of this on your own. Neither of us can!" then there was another thrown fist, and this time, James had had enough. He caught her strike with his own hand, then yanked the girl towards him, hopefully out of her saddle, and into his lap. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>10-01-2016, 07:10:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Before she knew what was happening she found herself in James’s lap without her cloak and very stunned. She found herself impressed by his strength and agility but her anger and frustration trumped everything else at the moment. “Perhaps I'd rather die? Or maybe you two have a better chance at surviving without me. I don't see why you care anyways! Now let me go, you big oaf!” Crossing her arms over her chest as she glared at him she tried not to be intimidated while up so close to him.<br><br>After a moment she started to struggle to break free from him with no luck as he out powered her by a lot. Perhaps if she went for something shocking he'd let her go unintentionally. An idea crossed her mind and without thinking it through she just went for it. Leaning up to him, she suddenly pressed her lips to his and kissed him hard. Hoping he'd let her go so she could hop down and run. Though his lips were soft and felt kind of nice against hers.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>17-01-2016, 01:06:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her reckless attempts to kiss him succeeded, but it was far less effective than she might have hoped. While James was clearly caught off guard, he did not yield his grip. Instead, he used her new positioning to more aggressively pin her to his chest. Another motion, and his arms were coiled around her, squeezing like a constrictor. With a jerk of his head, he escaped the elf's lips. This was proving to be far more than a chore. All he wanted was her to live, and he was convinced entirely she would not live if she left him right now. <br><br>So, James then threw himself leftwards, his heavier bulk more than enough to send the pair careening off the horse. He was under her, and landed first, likely absorbing most of the impact. All through it, he held tight, trying to keep the elf pinned. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Ash</strong> on <strong>02-03-2016, 21:44:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Squealing as he suddenly dove over the side of his horse, she leaned forward and tucked herself into him. Dahl groaned as they hit the ground and his armor pushed into her quite hard. Scowling up at him she began to thrash about trying to free herself from his grip. Her legs pushed off the ground as she tried to pry herself from his hold, only to end up straddling him awkwardly. Upon realizing she couldn't escape him she stopped thrashing and laid there resigned to her fate. Sighing to herself as she looked back up at him, her face showed no signs of emotion or her usual spark. “You win, I'm yours.” <br><br>&nbsp;Dahlia had no idea what to do or if her weird nightmares were accurate. In fact she wasn't even sure of anything except that she was in danger regardless of who she was with or where she went. Though as she gave it more thought she realized he was in the same position. Afterall it was his men who had slayed the royal family and he was unaccounted for. Perhaps she'd just do whatever he wanted, he was very capable and intelligent. She'd worry later after she was feeling better and not so terrified. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Coup (Dringdar x Ashasaurusrex)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dringdar</strong> on <strong>05-03-2016, 23:40:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Restraining the elf proved to be about as difficult as he'd assumed. Which was to say, very. Fortunately, he had her restrained at last, and even her agreeing that he was victorious. Unfortunately, she was straddling him, which combined with the earlier kiss had made their posturing further awkward. Lastly, her choice of words made the experience seem more like a conquering warlord claiming his princess prize, than a knight trying to restrain a little brat. <br><br>"You are by far the most frustrating individual I have ever had to travel with." James growled, before letting out a panted sigh. "Hold still. I'm going to bind your hands. Obviously you can't be trusted not to fight and try to be a pain." carefully he began to use his ropes, wrapping loops slowly and carefully around each wrist, then a second time, before binding a knot in the middle. 
			</dd>
		</dl>
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