Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Solos =&gt; Topic started by: indarkestknight on 10-05-2006, 07:09:42</h2>
		<dl id="posts">
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>10-05-2006, 07:09:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>It all begins when she wanders into Haelar for supplies. It happens to be a goodly sized city, not a metropolis by any stretch, though. Perhaps that’s why it’s been targeted. As she finds out as soon as she enters the tavern, something terribly wrong is going on in this town. Women being taken, never to be seen again. A rising sense of foreboding. Priests and knights of holy temples having terrible visions of a coming doom. Eventually, the trail leads to a coalition of such characters, none quite as powerful as her, none having as much wandering experience, but all dedicated and ready to sacrifice their lives to destroy the threat they have found: no less than a demonic cult.<br><br>The attack was supposed to happen that night. They struck the stronghold head on and found inside something worse than they had ever imagined. Devastation. Bodies lying everywhere, the walls scorched with lightning and fire, charred corpses wearing what appear to be the remains of cultists. Someone, it appears, have beaten them to the punch, though faint echoes of rumbling can be heard from deeper within the compound…<br></em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>10-05-2006, 07:25:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse stares at the devestation around her, looking for anyone she might help.&nbsp; Using the edge of a sword, she pushes the burned bodies over, unable to determine what caused such destruction.&nbsp; It had to have been magic.&nbsp; There was no sign of a great army, any army at all for that matter.&nbsp; Yes, magic.&nbsp; Listening to the far-off sounds she decided that the magic user or users must still be waging the war, she quickly makes her decision gripping her swords tightly and walks purposefully and rapidly in the direction of the rumbling sounds.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>11-05-2006, 01:13:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>As she moves along, Melisse can't help but note that despite the cult's relatively small size, no larger than a dozen members at best, that each appears to be fairly well armed- some of the equipment even survived the blasts that destroyed the wielders. Some appear to be weapon masters, others stealthy assassins, yet others themselves seem to be magic-wielders themselves from the assortment of wands and staves found on some of them. A motley crew to be certain, but more worrisome is the fact that while none of these would have been her equal, they would have overwhelmed her by sheer numbers, eliminating her allies with ease: they certainly seem better equipped than her compatriots. Regardless, as she makes her way, the battle continues to grow louder, until, finally, she hears an inhuman cry of pain and anguish just a little farther ahead...</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>11-05-2006, 01:28:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Gripping her swords tighter and raising them in a defensive pose Melisse continues forward preparing herself mentally for what may lie ahead.&nbsp; She tosses her hair behind her with a shrug of her shoulders and a shake of her head, a grim smile of determination coming to her face.&nbsp; This is what she lived for.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>11-05-2006, 02:25:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>As she enters into the the large room in which the battle is taking place, she's immediately struck by the blistering heat of the place. At the middle of the room is a huge pool of green flame, and, from within it, she can distinctly hear the roar of agonized souls and the howls of savage fiends. Close to the jade pool of flame, an armored figure appears to be attempting to summon forth... something.<br><br>However, more prominent are the giant dog-headed four-armed demon squaring off with a tall man in a tattered black cloak, his clothes virtually in rags, blood and wounds apparent and copious. Still, he fights on, the remnants of magic tingling on his fingertips as the monster rears back, much of its flesh blacked and burnt, falling away to ash....<br></em><br>OOC: Initiative...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>11-05-2006, 02:43:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse rushes into the room, not yet certain about the armored man, but thinking to help the apparently-injured one in the cloak.&nbsp; The sight of the dog-like demon turned almost into nothingless by the man's magic gives her pause for just a moment, here was someone of considerable power.&nbsp; Hopefully he would not prove to be her enemy.<br><br><br>ooc: I'm not certain if I'm doing this correctly or not.&nbsp; Her Dex bonus to Init is +6, and I don't know how to add it.&nbsp; Sorry.&nbsp; :)<br>:roll 1d20:
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>11-05-2006, 05:47:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				OOC: Your move is first, an all three are considered flat-footed against you. Both the demon and the armored caster are 25 ft away from you, and the wizard is about 35 ft away, standing 15 ft away from the dog fiend. The pool between the armored caster and the demon is 10 ft in diameter. You may make a Knowledge (the planes) check to identify any symbols in the room, or the fiend itself.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>11-05-2006, 06:10:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Forced to make a snap decision, Melisse decided the demon or amrored caster might be the worse threat.&nbsp; Once her mind was made up, she moved forward to attack, hoping her compatriots were close behind.&nbsp; Six a one and half-dozen the other, Melisse chooses to attack the demon.<br><br>Attack: 32<br>Damage: 11<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 06:58:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>The stroke, though powerful, only scratches the demon's tough hide, and it turns and snarls at her. However, it is quickly interrupted by waves of magic washing over it, it's muscles restricting and contorting as it howls in utter agony. From this close, Melisse can hear its bones crack, even as she hears the continued, uninterrupted chanting of the priest behind them. The cloaked figure, who just wracked the great beast with pain, is apparently a baritone from the dark voice he uses with the ranger.<br><br>"Get out now. This isn't your fight. You'll only get hurt."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 07:44:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse refuses to listen, afraid that even this powerful magic user might be overwhelmed without her assistance.&nbsp; She attacks again.<br><br>ooc:<br>Primary Weapon (+4 Longword with Brilliant Energy)<br>Attack 1: 30<br>Damage 1: 11<br>Attack 2: 28<br>Damage 2: 8<br>Attack 3: 22<br>Damage 3: 6<br><br>Off-Hand Weapon (+4 Light Mace with Shocking Burst - 1d10 electric)<br>Attack 1: 29<br>Damage: 4<br>Attack 2: 27<br>Damage: 6<br>Attack 3: 11<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 18:09:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>Despite her best efforts, however, Melisse's onslaught of attacks only leaves the vaguest scratches on the shuddering beast. Over her shoulder, meanwhile, lances a seemingly sluggish green ray of energy, hitting the still-convulsing demon and making its movements seem even more strained, as if its ability to move were seriously hindered. It tries to move away from the pair, lurching and staggering, leaving an opening for Melisse to strike again. The wizard speaks to her again, this time his voice exasperated, almost desperate.<br><br>"I can handle this, girl. Do not get in my way."<br><br>The dark priest continues his chanting.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 18:43:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Shrugging lightly as if it was no matter, Melisse decides to attack the cleric outright.&nbsp; Surely, she thinks, a blade in his gut could disrupt his summoning.&nbsp; She attacks the demon once more and takes a step backward, prepared to go around the green flame to the cleric.<br><br>ooc:<br>AoO against Demon<br>Attack 1: (Nat. 20) 46<br>Attack 1: 43 (confirm Crit)<br>Damage: 34<br><br>Primary Weapon (+4, Brilliant Energy--ignores armor)<br>Attack 1: 37<br>Damage 1: 12<br>Attack 2: 37 (possible Crit) <br>Attack 2: 30<br>Damage 2: 32 (with Crit, halved otherwise)<br>Attack 3: 26<br>Damage 3: 15<br><br>Off-Hand Weapon (+4, Shocking Burst- +1d10)<br>Attack 1: 27<br>Damage: 10<br>Attack 2: 23<br>Damage 2: 8<br>Attack 3: 25<br>Damage 3: 8
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 19:15:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>In this flurry, unlike other times, the ranger manages to score some deep blows on the demon, two large slashes marking it's stomach as it staggers back. Fearlessly, the wizard strides up to the beast, armed with no weapons, but casting his spell as he goes, his arm reaching out to touch the staggered, virtually helpless monster, and before Melisse's eyes, the light in the creature's eyes seems to drain as it becomes weaker yet, and it seems somehow more vulnerable. The cloaked head turns to her just for a moment.<br><br>"You're stubborn, but you're good. Thank you."<br><br>The summoner's chanting is beginning to take a distinctly worried tone.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 19:21:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse offers a dazzlimg smile before jogging over to the cleric unconcernedly.&nbsp; Demons were one things, humans were another.&nbsp; As she neared him she took a quick jab towards his gut with her gleaming sword.<br><br>ooc:<br>Attack (+4, Brilliant Energy--ignores armor): 42<br>Damage: 16
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 19:49:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>If taken aback by the poffered smile, the wizard shows no indication, starting yet another grim spell, likely to finish off the demon, even as the cleric finds his side being cut into. Still, he manages to maintain concentration on the dark spell as he continues chanting, seemingly paying no heed to the blood running within his black armor. Meanwhile, she hears a deathscream from the demon, and she sees the wizard leaning over its prone body, black energy wrapped around his hand, ripping it's way into the monster's heart. With a final shudder, the monster collapses, then dissappates.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 20:10:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse shakes her head, those are spells she has certainly never seen before.&nbsp; This is obviously someone very powerful, she thinks as she continues her assault on the cleric.<br><br>Primary Weapon (+4, Brilliant Energy--ignores armor)<br>Attack 1: 34<br>Damage 1: 15<br>Attack 2: 26 <br>Damage 2: 11<br>Attack 3: 26<br>Damage 3: 13<br><br>Off-Hand Weapon (+4, Shocking Burst- +1d10)<br>Attack 1: 27<br>Damage: 12<br>Attack 2: 18<br>Damage 2: 7<br>Attack 3: 26<br>Damage 3: 10
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 20:21:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>The cleric himself seems unable to stop his casting to save himself, even if he wants to, as proven by the fact that, despite all her mace attacks bouncing off his armor, all of her strikes with her longsword scoring long cuts. The wizard now stands up, and, focusing his eyes on his foe, casts yet another spell.<br><br>To Melisse's horror, the darkly handsome summoner suddenly becomes quite gaunt, and opens his mouth in a silent scream as his skin becomes totally dessicated. Then, suddenly, in one large movement, water bursts forth from his skin and from within the armor, ripping itself from his very veins before coalescing into a water elemental of vaguely his size, which promptly throws itself at the fiery portal and extinguishes it as it starts to close...</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 20:30:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				That was enough to surprise Melisse into stillness.&nbsp; She watched the scene unfold as if it were something from a traveling act, absolutely unsure of what to do.&nbsp; Her large dark eyes looked on in horror, her shoulders cringing at the sight.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 20:34:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>After seeing the portal close to a point in the vast marble floor, the wizard nods, lets out a bitter laugh, and promptly collaspes, obviously severely strained by his exertions. Still, she can hear a soft whisper issue from his lips as he falls to the ground.<br><br>"I'm sorry you had to see that..."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>12-05-2006, 21:07:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Trying to hide her revulsion, Melisse rushes to the mage's side and kneels beside him, moving to brush the hood of his cloak out of the way, "Are you all right?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>13-05-2006, 07:30:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>As she pulls the cloak back, she finds herself staring at a young handsome face, though a bit torn up and certainly a little lacking in the care that's been taken care of it. He's fully unconcious, and his face reveals much about him: He takes little care of himself, is a bookworm, much like many wizards, and cares more about whatever he happens to be researching than himself.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>13-05-2006, 07:49:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Carefully Melisse moved closer, setting her weapons down beside her and pulled his head into her lap.&nbsp; She shrugged off her backpack and retrieved a piece of cloth from it, wetting it with the water from her waterskin.&nbsp; Very gently she used it to bathe and cool his face.&nbsp; She studied that face while she cleansed it, it appeared strong and even though he was young, she sensed a maturity about him that went beyond his years.&nbsp; After she was finished she carefully pulled his cloak and robes away from his body, searching for any injuries she might be able to help with.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>13-05-2006, 22:32:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>His boddy seems to be quite battered, bearing the scorch marks of fireballs and lightning bolts, the slashes of daggers and swords, and the ripped and torn skin resulting from the earlier attacks of the demons. Some deep, some shallow, all in all, he's quite battered, though his upper torso seems more damaged than the rest of him. Still, he'll probably live, though if his wounds aren't treated, he'll certainly be covered with nasty scars.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>13-05-2006, 23:56:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse gently swabs his wounds with the water and cloth and then removes her healing kit from her pack.&nbsp; Carefully she bandages him, and then removes a healing potion from her pack.&nbsp; She hates to pour it down his throat in case any is wasted, but if he doesn't stir soon she will regardless.&nbsp; Satisfied that he was as safe as he could be, she puts everything but the potion away, closes his robes and cloak again, and looks around the room while waiting for him to awaken.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>14-05-2006, 06:29:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He seems as if he will remain unconcious for a while unless she does something, though he seems stable. His eyes slowly flutter open soon after she pours the potion down his throat, though they seem out of focus and he seems a bit confused, particularly by the fact that he's in her lap. So much so, in fact, that he seems unable to articulate his bewilderment. Apparently, when at a loss, he isn't the most eloquent of individuals.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>14-05-2006, 08:16:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Are you all right," she asks him in elven, her worry causing her to forget to speak in common.&nbsp; She watches him closely and gently holds him, hoping he doesn't try to make any sudden moves as he is obviously still very weak at the moment.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>14-05-2006, 17:19:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He blinks up at her bemusedly, and his response slips from his lips as if he didn't even have to think about converting the languages, for he speaks in common. His voice is clear, but soft, and twinged with slight sarcasm. It seems he's working very hard to conceal a compliment within a paranoid viewpoint.<br><br>"Well, better than I expected to be after collapsing, though I must admit finding myself in this pleasant position makes me wonder if this is a cruel joke by the cult's illusionists..."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>14-05-2006, 21:12:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Not at all understanding what this strange man was talking about, Melisse doesn't know what to say.&nbsp; "A cruel joke," she asks, but before allowing him time to answer she continues, "I can assure you I am no illusion.&nbsp; Are you well enough to sit?"&nbsp; This time her words are in common since he answered her as such, slipping into it easily.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>15-05-2006, 05:25:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Ah, but what crueler joke is there than harsh reality? No, no, this is not their work, only the bittersweetness I should have come to expect by now."<br><br>He does not bother to answer her question, instead gingerly rising to a sitting position, though one of his hands almost immediately goes to his head as he winces in pain.<br><br>"If you are no illusion, then you have my condolences that you must be forced to exist in such an imperfect world."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>15-05-2006, 08:31:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Shocked into silence, unable to follow this odd man's riddles, Melisse looks at the mage blankly but reaches out her hand to see if there is a cut or bump on his head that would cause him to wince so.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>16-05-2006, 06:51:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>Almost naturally, his hand shoots out to catch hers about the wrist and he seems to use his thumb to feel the inside of the sleeve. Still, she can sense this is more a reaction than anything else. Suddenly, he blinks and lets go, looking at her face for just a moment before turning away again and slowly getting to his feet, though he seems as if his balance is slightly off.<br><br>"My apologies."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>16-05-2006, 07:09:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"No offense was taken, no apology necessary," Melisse replied politely although she was a little caught off guard.&nbsp; She quickly got on her knees behind him, ready to grab him in case he should fall but she didn't try to touch him, certain he would take exception if she did.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>18-05-2006, 06:31:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>Finally coming to realization that his hood is no longer up, he draws up his cowl once more.<br><br>"Forgive me, but I must tell you... you shouldn't have gotten yourself involved with the likes of me. They might have left you alone if you hadn't given me that potion- if you had left me here for others. Your kindness may have cost you everything." </em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>18-05-2006, 06:40:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A little irked that he thought she couldn't take care of herself she replied, "Do I look like I'm frightened of them?"&nbsp; She stared at him for a long moment after rising off her knees wondering why he put that tattered hood back over his head.&nbsp; She used the toe of her boots to kick one blade into her left hand and then the other into her right.&nbsp; Sheathing them both she asks him, "Do you need another potion?&nbsp; Are you healed?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>18-05-2006, 06:45:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Time will heal these wounds, at the least. And if you aren't, you should be."<br><br>His tone is tired, and he doesn't particularly want to fight her, but he nevertheless doesn't seem willing to back down, either.<br><br>"Courage is not being fearless. Fearlessness is foolishness. Recognizing your fear, knowing that you can overcome the obstacle regardless of your fear, and doing so- that is courage. I know their kind better than most. And I am terrified of them, as you should be."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>18-05-2006, 07:06:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I am not frightened of what doesn't yet threaten me," she replied.&nbsp; "Time enough for that later.&nbsp; Now if you're sure you're fine perhaps you could point me in their general direction?"&nbsp; Anxious to eradicate this threat Melisse decides that their parlay is just delaying her goal.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 02:30:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Direction? Perhaps, if you gave me cosmological diagram. I speak of the demons that this conjurer was attempting to summon."<br><br>He turns to her.<br><br>"If you were only worried about the cultists, you need no longer be. I killed all those in this cell on my own before you arrived."<br><br>He states this with chilling coldness, as if mass murder were a common thing for him.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 02:40:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"But we killed him before he finished his conjuring.&nbsp; What else do I need to do now then," she replied, pointedly ignoring his sarcasm and coldness even though it upset her.&nbsp; Her eyes searched his, hoping to discover what kind of person he was, certainly he was unlike anyone she had met before.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 03:03:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"That they now know of you. They can see through those portals, even if the planar boundaries and cosmic rules prevent them from crossing over into our world. And they know you worked with me just now. As such, they will judge you a threat, because they have come to judge me a threat."<br><br>She can sense a hard, analytical stare gauging her. He seems, at the very least, somewhat paranoid, his body continually tensed as if readied for a non-existent threat.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 03:06:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"So they know of me.&nbsp; Now how do I get to them," she was growing a little frustrated of his riddles.&nbsp; No dummy herself, he was speaking way above her level of understanding.&nbsp; She continued to appraise him and decided that he was probably strong and decisive, a force to be reckoned with and not one she would care to have for an enemy.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 03:27:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>At her words, she feels his gaze intensify.<br><br>"You don't. I mean it. These are demons we speak of, tana'ri. They are denizens of the Abyss. As in the Infinite Layers of the Abyss. As in there are infinite demons. A hopeless conflict, one you cannot win. Make no mistake. Do not make this an extended conflict."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 03:39:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Then what do you propose to do," she asks very simply, willing to concede to him if he has a viable alternative.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 05:45:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"What would you do if you had a large organization like the Red Wizards that you knew you couldn't beat after your head?"<br><br>His tone is clinical, but seems to gain more of an edge at the question, as if he knows the answer, but dislikes it intensely.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 05:50:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Well I would destroy them all," she answers simply as if she could just snap her fingers and it would be done.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 05:58:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He sighs in frustration, his voice becoming even more strained.<br><br>"You </em>can't<em>. It's impossible!"</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 06:10:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"And have you tried it then," she smirks at him, seemingly enjoying his frustration.&nbsp; It's about time she turned the tables a bit.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 06:21:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He sounds deadly serious.<br><br>"Yes. With all the considerable might I have been able to muster."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 06:26:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Well I can see that you would make a formidible opponent.&nbsp; But you are just one against many.&nbsp; Why have you not joined forces with another who would share that goal," she asked sincerely.&nbsp; If he had similar goals as she, perhaps he wasn't so bad after all even if he didn't make sense half the time.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 06:37:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Because it would involve putting anyone like that in an extreme danger in which I would place no one but myself. I once made a vow. I fully intend to keep it, and if I did such, I would be bringing about its destruction, even if I didn't break it directly by doing so. And many against infinity is just as miniscule as one against infinity."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>19-05-2006, 17:49:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Not necessarily true.&nbsp; What if I had not been here to help you just now?&nbsp; How would you have been effective in this vow then?&nbsp; And if I have a similar promise should I not be allowed to do the same?&nbsp; And if I should, and of course I should, then wouldn't it be prudent to work together?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>20-05-2006, 04:10:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Yes, yes I would have. Don't speak of what you don't know."<br><br>He pauses.<br><br><br>"Your parents and family are mostly alive and safe, are they not?"</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>20-05-2006, 04:17:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse's stern face falters just a bit at the mention of family, and she bitterly replies, "No.&nbsp; I no longer have a family.&nbsp; What do you care?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>20-05-2006, 04:20:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Tell me, if someone took your family away from you, would you ever want to let anyone else face that same darkness, those same evils, when you lost all you knew to it?"<br><br>His tone, while still aggressive, is tainted with a bit of desperation and remembered pain.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>20-05-2006, 04:32:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Of course not.&nbsp; That's why I do what I do.&nbsp; Quit speaking in riddles, tell me what you're talking about."&nbsp; She looks a bit exasperated and hurt is evident in her eyes, obviously she knows a little of what he speaks from experience.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>20-05-2006, 04:41:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"You don't get it, then, do you? Let me put it plainly for you. I was orphaned at less than a year old because of demons. Those that took me in then proceeded to be raped, tortured, killed, or some combination thereof before my eyes, with me standing by, helpless. They left me alone, because they knew what they had done to me. And they took the one I cared most about and cared most about me. So I promised to myself that I wouldn't let it happen again. And if you work with me, I have no doubt you'll suffer the same fate they did."<br><br>As he speaks, his voice become colder and more distant, analytical, even, almost as if he resists the emotion that treatens to rise up and overwhelm him.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>20-05-2006, 04:50:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"But there's no problem then.&nbsp; They already have me marked according to you so I guess you'll just have to work with me regardless," she replied.&nbsp; His story had obviously troubled her, it was even worse than her own.&nbsp; "Two are better than one.&nbsp; I can help you, I want the same thing you do.&nbsp; And if I'm already marked just for helping you, what better way to protect me than for us to stay together," she added, trying to trap him in his words even though she was certain she would fail--his wits far exceeded her own.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>20-05-2006, 05:43:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He seems to be gauging her, again looking her up and down. His repsonse is slow to come.<br><br>"You don't plan on giving up, do you? Why?"</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>20-05-2006, 21:39:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Unused to such scrutiny, normally men are far more interested in her womanly attributes than her worth, Melisse nonetheless stands perfectly still throughout his perusal, a determined expression on her pretty face.&nbsp; "I have my reasons, not far from your own though not nearly so terrible.&nbsp; Suffice it to say that I understand your pain and your willingness to exact justice from those who inflicted it.&nbsp; My desire is the same."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>21-05-2006, 03:12:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He laughs and shakes his head bitterly.<br><br>"Justice? You seek justice? Then, I am sorry, but I fear that you shall not be able to tolerate my pessimism, willing as I am to tolerate optimism's foolishness. I seek cold, hard vengeance. Does that sit well with you? That I would wish to inflict unspeakable pain on my foes for what they have done to me and those I care for? Those spells you saw just now- they are not used by any lovers of 'justice.' They are among the darkest and foulest of magics. They are my specialty. My art."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>21-05-2006, 04:34:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse pauses for a bit, she had known he was quite powerful in a way she hadn't yet encountered, but for some reason the fact he practiced dark magic still surprised her.&nbsp; "You seek revenge, I seek justice.&nbsp; Both are more easily attainable if we work together.&nbsp; I can...accept...what you do if it helps me reach my goal."&nbsp; She nearly choked on the word accept, but she sincerely believed that the two of them together had a far better chance at success.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>21-05-2006, 05:19:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>She can sense an arched eyebrow beneath the shadows that obscure his face.<br><br>"You would, would you? And risk corruption? You would risk me having you become as vile and repellent as I find myself? You are either of great foolishness, great courage, or both..."<br><br>There is an admiring note in his voice.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>21-05-2006, 06:13:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Airily she replies, "I think I'm strong enough to withstand you."&nbsp; There is obviously a challenge hidden in her words and the look she directs at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>21-05-2006, 06:46:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Yes, and I once thought that the world was a good place, at heart. Thoughts can be dangerous things."<br><br>Nevertheless, he doesn't seem to argue with her anymore, instead offering a name.<br><br>"Moloch Athenis."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>21-05-2006, 10:18:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hoping the verbal war was finally over, she offered a tight smile and replied, "Melisse Brethil, I am pleased to meet you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>21-05-2006, 17:50:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"You won't be for long."<br><br>He doesn't yet bother lowering the cowl, though. It almost seems as if he has a strong preference for darkness and hates the light.<br><br>"Is there anything you should need here in this town before we depart?"</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>21-05-2006, 18:01:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse actually smiles, he is such an odd man.&nbsp; "Nothing comes to mind.&nbsp; Can you think of anything we might need?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>21-05-2006, 18:07:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"My needs, at the least, are provided for at my abode. Any last prayers at the shrine of your god or godess would be recommended. I have none myself."<br><br>It seems as if he purposely leaves his statement ambiguous- whether he does not revere the gods at all, or simply has no places in which to honor them where he dwells.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>21-05-2006, 18:34:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Nature is my shrine, I need to one place to offer my praise or my pleas, and I can do so at any time I desire.&nbsp; Now that our verbal sparring is complete, may we go now?"&nbsp; He certainly is a conundrum, one she hopes to figure out quickly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>23-05-2006, 06:36:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"I said that you shall not find shrines within or near my abode. I stand by that, my lady. I only wish to give you every consideration before I ask you to drop off the face of the earth."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>23-05-2006, 07:50:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse shakes her head but smiles again.&nbsp; &nbsp;This was going to be very interesting.&nbsp; "Your consideration astounds me.&nbsp; Shall we proceed then?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>24-05-2006, 02:16:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"As your blitheness astounds me."<br><br>He sighs.<br><br>"Then you have none whom you must inform of your departure? If not, then, yes, we shall."<br><br>Moloch extends a single, leather-gloved hand to her, palm up.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>25-05-2006, 16:07:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse replies with a quick negative shake of her head and steps closer to him, laying her warm, bare left hand on top of his outstretched gloved one.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>26-05-2006, 02:06:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>If she could have seen beyond the shadows of his cowl, a ghost of a smile would have presented itself to her at her straightforwardness. He quickly starts the teleportation incantation, and soon the room begins to spin, swirl, and blur around them, changing, growing darker, yet less eerie, until, finally, they stand in a large chamber, attired somberly with black rugs and tapestries of great battles adorning the stone walls as gently burning torches light the room.<br><br>"Welcome to my home."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>28-05-2006, 18:19:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Interesting," she replied simply, gently pulling her hand from his own.&nbsp; Melisse walked to one of the tapestries and began to study the battle presented there, assuming he would begin his necessary preparations.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>28-05-2006, 18:36:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>In it stands a man in shining armor, alone, streaked with crimson, apparently his blood. Sword and shield at the ready, he looks prepared to take on whatever challenges arise. At his feet the corpses of demons, devils, and fallen angels reside, broken and beaten by this mighty champion. Yet, the picture also depicts a seemingly endless stream of fiends ready to fight the warrior, grinning sadistically. And yet he stands. Alone. Ready to fight. Ready to die. Hopeless odds. Hopeless cause. Still, he fights.<br><br>The voice rings out of the flickering shadows into which the mage has already disappeared.<br><br>"I may be a while. I need to rest- recharge my spells, then seek out the next cell. Will you require anything?"</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>28-05-2006, 18:39:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Without turning she replies, "Maybe a small amount of fresh food, I'm tired of these rations.&nbsp; A place to meditate that is a bit softer than the hard stone floor perhaps."&nbsp; Melisse walks on to the next tapestry while waiting for a reply.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>28-05-2006, 18:49:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>In this one stands a single man, again, alone, this time with pure white skin and hair- an albino. In his hands is a black greatsword, covered with rules, and bodies lay strewn in the desolation around him. His expression is one of hopelessness, despair, and, yet, at the same time, determination. As if he has a job to finish, no matter what the cost.<br><br>"Such can be arranged. I shall guide you."<br><br>He rematerializes out of a shadow next to her, and looks up at this particular tapestry.<br><br>"I know, I know... the elves always did say my tastes were more dour than a dwarf's."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>28-05-2006, 19:59:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse studies the tapestry at his words then turns and replies, "I thank you.&nbsp; Though I disagree this these elves you speak of.&nbsp; I find the dedication depicted in this art refreshing and steadying.&nbsp; I identify with your decor."&nbsp; The smile she offers is small but sincere, one that shows she, too, has suffered even if she has chosen a different path for her retribution.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>29-05-2006, 00:41:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Ah, if only you knew his story. A tragedy... but then, such is mortal fate. Perhaps I will tell you someday of it."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>29-05-2006, 14:48:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I would like that.&nbsp; I've found that most stories worth repeating are fraught with tragedy, haven't you?"&nbsp; She looks at him, straight into his eyes as if seeing deep into his soul, thinking that perhaps she had found someone who might understand her.&nbsp; But then she shook her head, remembering the spells she had seen him use.&nbsp; Whether or not they had come from similar places, she would never choose such heartless destruction to seek out her revenge and justice as he apparently had.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>29-05-2006, 23:34:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Tragedy, sacrifice... love. But, then, is not the very nature of love tragedy?"<br><br>The words hang in the air as she can feel him staring back at her from within the shadows that he hides himself, protects himself, even, in.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>30-05-2006, 03:14:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Steeling herself against the tears that were suddenly springing to her eyes, Melisse silently curses her display of weakness yet her voice holds steady as she replies, "Yes.&nbsp; All the love I've ever known has ended in tragedy.&nbsp; Much sacrifice as well, though it was all needless.&nbsp; And now I am all that is left," her voice trails off and she turns away, determined to stop anymore tears from surfacing.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>30-05-2006, 06:46:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>There is a moment of hesitation, then a hand comes to rest gently on her shoulder. The voice is measured, even, with an undercurrent of an undefinable emotion in it.<br><br>"Needless? No sacrifice is needless- loss can be needless, purposeless, yes. But sacrifice? Never."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>30-05-2006, 20:05:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Turning back, hurt and angry, Melisse practically shouts, "But if someone sacrifices their life to save another only the saved one is killed regardless how can it not be needless?"&nbsp; A lone tear escapes her eye, one she was unable to blink away before it fell.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>31-05-2006, 02:17:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>His voice, again, is calm and measured, his hand not leaving her shoulder. She feels his gaze on her, and, oddly, a sense of... compassion.<br><br>"How? I ask you: is love from afar meaningless, however intense it may be? Is dedication to an unattainable goal any less noble because it is doomed to failure? Do not rob the action of the meaning, of the love and nobility behind such an action."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>31-05-2006, 16:28:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She sensed that he was right, but she hurt no less than before.&nbsp; Her eyes stormy with anger and passion for her cause she replied, "You speak in riddles, mage.&nbsp; Everyone is dead, their sacrifices did nothing, meant nothing.&nbsp; And now I will make their torturers and murderers pay."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>01-06-2006, 02:17:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Nothing... if you honestly believe that, then perhaps I have found a soul more lost than I am..."<br><br>His tone has become one of frustration, though she senses no anger directed at her. Perhaps he blames himself for not being able to convince her, or, more likely, he is even more insenced by the injustice of the universe.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>01-06-2006, 06:32:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse looks down at the floor, embarrassed and upset with herself for letting her emotions get the better of her.&nbsp; "I'm sorry," she finally says, looking up with sad eyes that beg for him to forget her outburst.&nbsp; "I didn't quite mean that I guess.&nbsp; I just don't know what I think.&nbsp; Sometimes it just feels hopeless, like their deaths meant nothing, and that I will never succeed and avenge them."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>01-06-2006, 06:38:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He moves a little closer, and his arms twitch, as if to embrace her, but they don't. Instead she feels a sad, empathetic stare.<br><br>"It's fine... really. We all have moments like this. I've been worse, at times... It's just, of course, I have no one to vent to... so no one ever needs to know."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>01-06-2006, 16:15:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse does not retreat, but is instead a little disappointed when he moves no closer to her and doesn't touch her.&nbsp; To cover her confusion and disappointment, she makes a poor attempt at humor saying, "Well, I guess you owe me a venting session, huh?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>02-06-2006, 00:41:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"If I owe you anything, it is an apology for provoking this, for reopening those old wounds with careless words..."<br><br>At this, he does take a small step closer, putting his arm around her in a kind of tentative hug. His voice dies to a whisper.<br><br>"I'm sorry. I'll try not to do it again."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>02-06-2006, 05:39:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Surprised at the sudden change, Melisse's eyes soften and her voice drops lower and much quieter.&nbsp; "You have no need to be sorry.&nbsp; You did nothing wrong.&nbsp; I struggle sometimes, with myself and my reasoning though never my cause itself.&nbsp; It's almost like I don't know who I am.&nbsp; Am I good, out to right a wrong for justice's sake?&nbsp; Or am I evil, my only goal to cause as much suffering as I have seen as punishment?"&nbsp; She leans into the hug just a little, afraid that if she moved too closely he might move away from her, and she didn't want to lost that contact with another person just yet.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>02-06-2006, 07:14:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"You are human. You hold all that's best of good and evil within you, the potential for all, as we all do. It could be a matter of perspective, even, if one chooses to see it that way. But... I should think you still have too much hope, too much idealism, to truly have given up justice. That you even ponder whether what you do is good or evil... it bodes well for you. The truly, irredeemably evil never pause to consider such things. They only extract their vengeance."<br><br>With her movement, he moves to embrace her more fully, with both arms, his body close to hers. She can feel his heart beating. Apparently, he actually does have one...</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>02-06-2006, 07:26:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Leaning a little closer to Moloch, Melisse lays her head on his chest, seeking strength and comfort.&nbsp; "Thank you," she whispers while listening to the gentle sound of his heart beating.&nbsp; It had been years since she had been this close to another unless it was to help or kill them, and it felt terribly good.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>02-06-2006, 07:35:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He doesn't respond, instead just holding her, letting the moment extend... she needs this, right here, right now, this unconditional acceptance. Just his arms around her, his heart close to hers.<br><br>"It's alright... everything will be alright... someday..."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>02-06-2006, 07:39:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Finally trusting that he has accepted her, at least for now, Melisse fully relaxes against him.&nbsp; Closing her eyes she sighs softly and tries to forget all that she's seen, and more importantly, all that she's done.&nbsp; She wants to wrap her arms around him but she does not wish to destroy any of his deliate components or anger him so she makes herself be content with what she has been given.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>03-06-2006, 01:16:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>For the moment, he just holds her, as long as she needs to be held. His voice dies away to less than a whisper, not even really a coherent stream of words so much as empathy given voice.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>03-06-2006, 21:47:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Using the comfort he has granted her well, Melisse closes her eyes and relaxes, smelling the spicy scents that cling to his body from his components she believes.&nbsp; Carefully she brings one hand up to rest it on his chest near her face, the act of touching him somehow providing even more comfort.&nbsp; Once she was calm she whispered her gratitude but doesn't yet move to step away from him.&nbsp; Besides enjoying the nearness of his body she is embarrassed at her outburst and very confused about the kindness she can sense in him now in direct contrast to the devastation he had caused earlier.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>04-06-2006, 07:14:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>She can feel his heart beat just a pace faster with her hand against his chest, but he doesn't fall silent or sound any more awkward than before- if this means anything special to him, he's ignoring it for her sake right now. In a way, though, she senses something in him, something from which his magic might stem, too. A sort of lonely desperation to help at any personal cost... even, perhaps, his soul.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>04-06-2006, 16:08:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Several minutes go by before Melisse realizes that he has held her for quite some time.&nbsp; Slowly she pulls her head back just enough to look up into his face and rests her free hand on his chest next to her other hand telling herself it's just to keep balance and ignoring the voice in the back of her head telling her the truth-she just wants to continue touching him.&nbsp; Looking deep into his eyes she cocks her head to the right as she studies him.&nbsp; He certainly is an enigma, and perhaps it is just her inquisitive nature, but she wishes to understand how he could be two completely different things at once.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>04-06-2006, 18:19:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>In the shadows her eyes discern the ghost of a smile on his lips as she looks curiously at him. His voice is soft as he speaks.<br><br>"As I have said, you are human. So, too, am I. Evil, good- they both dwell within me, and so I use that within me which I must use to win the fights I have chosen to fight. Am I a bit contradictory? Perhaps. But it serves me."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 06:14:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nodding Melisse replies, "Yes.&nbsp; I feel that way, that I am good yet evil.&nbsp; But I don't want to be evil.&nbsp; I only wish to be good."&nbsp; Pausing for a moment to sort out her feelings, a thought comes to her mind and she asks, "And this?&nbsp; Was this...comfort...to serve you or was it real?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 06:34:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Can't reality serve the needs of people?"<br><br>She senses a sad smile beneath the shadows.<br><br>"And this... this is because you need it, and because I need to know there's still a heart in me somewhere, that I can still remember why I do what I do- who I do it for."<br><br>There seems to be a tone of loss in his voice.<br><br>"I wish I believed there was enough good left in me for me to be only good."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 07:49:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"The only reality I've ever known is not fit for people."&nbsp; One of Melisse's hands moves to gently touch her face without her thinking about it and she continues the trend as she speaks without thinking as well.&nbsp; "I feel your heart, it is warm and strong within you.&nbsp; I sense goodness in you even though I don't understand how you can do some of what you've chosen.&nbsp; But there is good in you, I can feel it."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 17:48:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He looks at her for a single, very long moment. His words, while not guarded, come out slowly, almost as if he's pulling the truth of himself out of depths they don't want to retreat from.<br><br>"Then it is not my good, but another's- the good of those I fight for."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 19:08:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I don't believe that good can reside in evil.&nbsp; You simply cannot be all bad, there is good of your own somewhere.&nbsp; And I thank you again for holding me," she adds, still pressed against him closely and not yet ready to retreat away from him even though she realizes that time is of the essence.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 20:20:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Belief is a powerful thing... but it does not always make things so."<br><br>He doesn't let go just yet, seeing she still needs him to hold her.<br><br>"And, my dear, there are few who would let me hold them after a display of my magics, so perhaps I should be the one thanking you."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 21:17:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Then it is more than belief,' she replies as she moves the hand on his cheek to around his neck, beneath his cloak, and rests her head back on his chest to hear his heart beating once more.&nbsp; "Because," she continues, "I <em>know</em> it is there.&nbsp; And that is why I can let you hold me, why I like it," she admitted, not realizing what that might mean or the implications.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 21:26:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>She can feel his cheek move under her hand, as if to speak, but no words issue forth from Moloch's mouth. Instead, the arms around her tighten just a little, holding her close.<br><br>"Thank you."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 21:35:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It is I who should be thanking you," she replies and begins wondering just how long he would be willing to let her stay pressed so tightly against him.&nbsp; Melisse wonders why she trusts him so easily so soon, she has never been good at trusting or even liking people, but she cannot come up with a satisfactory reason.&nbsp; For once in her life, instead of arguing with herself, she allows herself to go back to relaxing against him for as long as he will let her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 21:43:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"For dragging you away to my little secluded world and into my hopeless war? Well, you're welcome."<br><br>He smiles, she can feel it, she's certain. Truthfully, Moloch admits to himself, he doesn't want to let go, doesn't want to leave himself- or her, for that matter- alone again. And so he holds her close, his heart beating close to hers.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>05-06-2006, 22:01:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I like your world, and your war is the same as my own," she replies with a bit of her old teasing personality shining through.&nbsp; Wanting to see his smile she moves her head just slightly and looks up through her dark eyelashes.&nbsp; Catching him she cannot help but smile back before returning to her position above his heart.&nbsp; Strong as she is, her legs begin to grow tired from being in the same position but she is afraid that once they separate he might not want to hold her again so she stays silent.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>06-06-2006, 22:26:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>If ever there was a time that he rolled his eyes at her, now would be it, a smaller, rueful smile touching his lips.<br><br>"I would argue, if I didn't know better than to try. You're as stubborn as I am..."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>07-06-2006, 05:41:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Stubborn gets things done," she replied, now fully teasing him.&nbsp; Somehow going back and forth with him verbally amused her, even though she would never win against his intelligence.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>07-06-2006, 06:30:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Yes. And being stubborn can often get one to be done-for, I've found."<br><br>He laughs a little.<br><br>"Or, at least, in situations where beautiful damsels must come to one's rescue. Not a bad situation all in all, I admit, though a little humbling."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>07-06-2006, 14:50:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse's laughter joins Moloch's in a pleasant duet, although hers falters a little when she hears the word 'beautiful.'&nbsp; Pulling away just a bit to look at him, her hand slipping around to his shoulder, she looks at him questioningly wondering if he really meant it.&nbsp; It wasn't that she hadn't been called beautiful before, but it had always been by men who just wanted to get into her armor.&nbsp; But she knew that he wasn't the least bit interested in that somehow.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>07-06-2006, 23:34:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He is sure to be arching an eyebrow under that hood of his right now, a smile still dancing lightly on his lips.<br><br>"What? Something I said?"</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>08-06-2006, 05:10:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'm just a little surprised you would call me beautiful I guess," she replied, as she pulled just a little bit farther away from him, afraid of outstaying her welcome/
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>08-06-2006, 06:17:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He feigns being wounded.<br><br>"You dare doubt my honesty? I feel... broken inside. The beast, rejected by the beauty. Oh, the agony, the searing torment. I may become a bard if this pain keeps up much longer."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>08-06-2006, 07:10:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Unable to stop herself, Melisse laughs out loud, a genuine, pretty laugh that floats around the room happily.&nbsp; "From what I've seen just now you might be a better bard than mage already," Melisse teases, still laughing and smiling up at him.&nbsp; Their shared teasing and joking, something she hasn't done with anyone in a very long time, has made her very happy and to her confirms her belief in him, this stranger she has just met.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>09-06-2006, 03:19:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He takes a bow, his voice still jesting.<br><br>"Oh, yes, I can see it now- the dark bard wiping out hordes of demons with his suicide-inducing songs and tales of depression, darkness, and women that wear nothing but black."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>09-06-2006, 09:13:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Laughing again, Melisse can't even begin to remember when anything has amused her so much as this strange man.&nbsp; She looks down at her black armor and teases, "I can even be some inspiration for one of your masterpieces, though for glory's sake you would have to make me much nobler and prettier in a song or story."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>09-06-2006, 20:29:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Prettier?"<br><br>He feigns astoundment.<br><br>"Prettier? Ah, La Belle Dame Sans Merci, what would you have me do? Compare you to the Queen of Nymphs, for surely she could not compare to you when you have attired yourself with the silk of velvet night!"</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>09-06-2006, 20:39:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse begins to laugh so hard that tears run down her cheeks and she clings tightly to Moloch, afraid she could no longer stand up on her own if she tried.&nbsp; If her laughter was not enough, she looked up at him with sparkling eyes.&nbsp; "Do tell," she asks teasingly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>09-06-2006, 20:53:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Oh, by all the fires of Baator, woman, I knew I should have spent some of my reading time with poetry!"<br><br>He laughs himself and guides her gently over to a wall, against which he himself leans, apparently a little tired of standing himself, especially after having spent so long fighting the cultists before.<br><br>"Ah, how I wish I could find the words..."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>09-06-2006, 21:04:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				For once in her life, Melisse followed someone.&nbsp; She had always been a leader, albeit a reluctant one, for she had never found anyone worthy of following in any way before.&nbsp; So why was she following someone now, someone who would use such power as he did.&nbsp; For some reason it didn't matter to her, what did matter was that here was someone she felt was worth following.<br><br>Melisse rests comfortably against him, still laughing, as he leans against the wall, everything forgotten but this moment, for now.&nbsp; "Something tells me you never lack for words, Moloch."&nbsp; Saying his name aloud almost cements a...friendship...in her mind, and she smiles because of it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>09-06-2006, 21:22:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Then that something speaking to you is horrible liar, my dear, and I'll have to find them and punish them."<br><br>He responds easily, but there's no real hint of seriousness in his voice at that.<br><br>"And not when I need them, no... I never lack words, really- I just lack the right ones."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>09-06-2006, 21:40:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You're doing wonderfully so far," she replies, smiling even though she doesn't realize it because he called her 'my dear.'&nbsp; What she also doesn't realize is that the way she is looking at him is a little different than before, more friendly as if he is someone she cares for as if they hadn't just met in such strange circumstances.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>09-06-2006, 23:53:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Wonderfully in comparison to what? Ogres?"<br><br>He shrugs and shakes his head, laughing a little.<br><br>"Ah, if only I had their sense of flair and panache."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>10-06-2006, 00:03:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Laughing out loud again, Melisse wonders why indeed this brilliant man wasn't a bard he was so amusing.&nbsp; "Mmmmm....I think you're doing wonderfully in comparison to any man I've ever met," she replied, stopping abruptly and coloring a bright red as she realized what she had said.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>10-06-2006, 00:08:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He continues without missing a beat, sensing her embarassment and filling what would likely otherwise be a painfully awkward silence.<br><br>"Well, then, you really must tell me what it was like growing up among dwarves and half-orcs."<br><br>He reaches out and gives her shoulder a slight squeeze despite himself, hoping she'd realize he doesn't mind what she's saying- that he won't draw away.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>10-06-2006, 00:14:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				In spite of herself, Melisse cannot help but smile again, almost laughing, but not quite.&nbsp; Moloch reassured her with his touch, and she realized then how much she liked it.&nbsp; She didn't know whether to back away from him, run away, and leave him alone or press closer, and explore these strange happenings.&nbsp; Caught in between, she takes her hand from his shoulder and places it on his hand, squeezing it in thanks.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>10-06-2006, 18:37:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He squeezes back gently, and, surprisingly, she notes he's physically weaker than she is. On consideration, his frame is actually quite slight, but it seems to have a sort of angular, dangerous edge to it that most wizards don't have, though that may just be how he holds himself. Still, his hand is warm, and, it would seem, he's quite human, not the detatched, vicious, monstrous wizard he'd like his enemies to believe he is.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>10-06-2006, 19:41:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse wonders for only a minute about being stronger, she is trained of course, and practices often if life hasn't put things in her way for her to fight.&nbsp; Pushing those thoughts aside, Melisse entwines her hand with his, taking it from her shoulder to hold it.&nbsp; Although it doesn't appear she's doing so consciously as she can't seem to tear her eyes from him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>11-06-2006, 07:56:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He moves a bit closer again, leaning in just a bit, resting his cowled head on her shoulder. His voice is soft and tired.<br><br>"You have no idea how long it's been since I've let my guard down around anyone."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>11-06-2006, 08:01:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Deeply touched, Melisse squeezes his hand tightly and moves her other hand up, wrapping it around his neck through his hood to touch his skin.&nbsp; "I am honored," she whispers softly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>11-06-2006, 08:09:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Thank you. Thank you for not running away screaming."<br><br>His voice is genuine, and she senses a hint of weakness in it, a need to be accepted, a knowledge of the evil he has commited in the destruction of evil, and a hopelessness that has driven him to it.<br><br>"Thank you."<br><br>His skin is ice and fire against her hand, hot with emotion, yet cold with fear- fear that even now, she might pull back when he himself, so thoroughly and mysteriously enchanted by her, cannot pull back from her.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>11-06-2006, 08:12:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I could never do that," Melisse said in her soft whisper.&nbsp; She squeezes his hand once more and begins to gently rub his neck with her fingers.&nbsp; There is something about his skin, the way it feels hot and cold at the same time maybe, that makes her want to not let go.&nbsp; Carefully she leans her head down, nudging the cowl of his cloak to the side just enough to press her cheek against his.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>13-06-2006, 05:55:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>His cheek tenses as if, by instinct, to draw away, but he doesn't, or even flinch, instead forcing himself to relax, to let himself go in her presence. It's warm against her, soft, not as hard or harsh as she might have expected from the last time she saw him with the hood off. Perhaps the hood is part of his personality, or a shield to hide his personality- a way to intimidate others and make it difficult to read him, as well as distancing him from what he sees, hiding any expressions of pain or sympathy that might be betrayed by his eyes when his voice and stance remain firm.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>13-06-2006, 06:20:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Quite surprised that Moloch had let her even closer to him, she pulled back enough to look into his eyes, remembering how they had looked when he was lying on the floor and she had helped him.&nbsp; Unconsciously her tongue flicked out to moisten her lips while she studied him carefully, her hand resting warm and easy in his.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>13-06-2006, 19:43:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>Somehow, here with her, he seems almost as helpless as he did there on the floor, as uncertain now as he was determined in the fight against the demon, caught between the pleasant feelings of things just as they sit now, and the potential for rejection or acceptance if they move beyond just holding each other.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>13-06-2006, 20:35:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sensing somehow that he is unsure, almost afraid, Melisse moves back against his cheek close enough to whisper, "Moloch...are you okay with this?&nbsp; Do you mind to...hold me?"&nbsp; Even for a whisper, her words sound breathless, a little uncertain herself.&nbsp; She has never been so confused by someone before and doesn't know why she feels drawn to him. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>14-06-2006, 06:35:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"I... No. I want you here. I like this."<br><br>His words are softer than hers, if that's possible, embarrassed, even, as if he's admitting something terribly mortifying... or terribly soul-bearing.<br><br>"It's just... I'm sorry... I've... I've never been like this... with anyone..."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>14-06-2006, 06:58:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse's smile can easily be felt by his cheek and she squeezes his hand again.&nbsp; "Thank you.&nbsp; I like this, too.&nbsp; You feel wonderful, so comforting and...soft," she added, her voice trailing off.&nbsp; Her breathe was warm against his ear as she began to gather her normally considerable courage around her.&nbsp; After several splendid minutes of holding him and being held by him in return, Melisse finally pulls away once more, again just enough to look him in the eyes, and asks, "May I...take off your hood so I may see you better?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>14-06-2006, 17:54:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>In response to her question, his own hands moves up to the sable hood, ready to take down his shield, his protection. He laughs a little as he lowers it, his voice soft as ever, managing a small, half-bitter laugh.<br><br>"It's funny. This is the only time that someone wanted my face for the sake of seeing me- everyone else wants to see it because it's less intimidating than the shadows within the cowl."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>14-06-2006, 21:48:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"The shadows are very intimidating.&nbsp; They help you look even stronger than you already are.&nbsp; Almost...eerily frightening.&nbsp; I probably would have thought you were as bad as them, but somehow I knew you weren't like them at all," Melisse talks a lot to hide her nervousness, admitting things she probably wouldn't have said otherwise.&nbsp; "I like you much better without it though, it makes you seem more approachable, nicer almost," she added shyly, staring into his eyes.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>14-06-2006, 22:31:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He seems a bit taken aback, almost embarrassed at her compliments, though, as if his wordplay might hopefully distract from his red cheeks.<br><br>"Well, then it's good they do their job. Though I always have considered trying out wearing a dragon mask, somehow I think it would instead make me look like one of those ridiculous vigilantes who run around the roof-tops like acrobats and jesters."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>14-06-2006, 23:32:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Smiling, thinking that it is an act and not the real Moloch, Melisse raises her hand to touch his other cheek and says, "I think that would be overdoing it.&nbsp; You are very mysterious and powerful and intimidating in that cloak with its shadows on the angled planes of your face and your voice that seems to growl and cause fear."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>14-06-2006, 23:52:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He smiles fondly at her, his hand moving to cup her cheek as she has his.<br><br>"You certainly know how to compliment an evil archmage. Are you certain you've never been kidnapped by some unsuspecting wizard, only to soundly beat him when he least expects it?"</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>15-06-2006, 05:01:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Giggling softly Melisse responds, "I'm certain of it, my friend.&nbsp; I've always taken great care to not get captured."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>16-06-2006, 03:36:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He nods, smiling softly.<br><br>"Good. Keep it that way."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>16-06-2006, 04:36:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I intend to," she answers, enjoying this closeness with another person.&nbsp; And talking.&nbsp; She'd never been able to talk with anybody like this.&nbsp; With his hand on her cheek and her hand on his, Melisse suddenly thinks that they must look funny this was and smiles, her eyes sparkling with sudden glee.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>19-06-2006, 21:23:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He smiles back, though with a tad bit of confusion in his eyes, as if having no notion whatsoever of how ridiculous this might look to an outsider, the dark and brooding wizard holding in the palm of his hand the cheek of a beautiful young warrior, who likewise holds his cheek in hers.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>19-06-2006, 21:44:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				About this time Melisse realizes that she just can't take her eyes off this mysterious man, and that might not be a good thing.&nbsp; She doesn't want to pull away, but something is urging her closer if she stays where she is.&nbsp; Returning his smile, without even knowing it, she began to wage a battle within herself.&nbsp; Move away or move closer.&nbsp; And what would he do if she did either.&nbsp; Would he be hurt if she moved away?&nbsp; Would he rebuff her if she moved closer?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>19-06-2006, 22:50:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>Sensing something wrong, Moloch steps a little closer, concern and confusion in his eyes, unaware he may be making things more difficult for Melisse.<br><br>"What is it?"</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>19-06-2006, 23:10:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His very close proximity means Melisse has to tilt her head up to look into his eyes.&nbsp; She almost wondered if he was doing it on purpose.&nbsp; Teasing her maybe.&nbsp; She licked her lips again to moisten them, they were suddenly very dry.&nbsp; She shivered visibly as if she were cold even though that should be impossible standing so close to his warmth.&nbsp; "I..."&nbsp; Melisse licked her lips again and blinked several times, and then leaned in a little closer to him, not saying anything else but almost looking a little hopefully at him all of a sudden.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>21-06-2006, 06:16:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>He looks down at her, and, somehow, he feels this irrestible tug, this inexplicable and inexcusable desire to lean down and kiss her, but he hesitates. He's sure she can see it in his eyes, how he feels... and she can also see the fear. The fear which, she can also see, he's about to ignore. But a word, and she could stop him, if she wanted to...</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>21-06-2006, 07:38:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was almost like she was drawn to him, needed to be closer.&nbsp; Could she really be reading him correctly?&nbsp; She hoped so for as if under some spell he had cast Melisse stood up on her tiptoes until her lips were as close as they could get to his without touching. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>21-06-2006, 20:56:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>His hand slips from her cheek to the back of her neck as he leans in himself, their lips brushing against each other so lightly that she might as well be kissing a ghost. But she can feel it. A fire burning inside him with frightening intensity.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>21-06-2006, 21:15:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse holds her breath as their lips barely meet.&nbsp; Without thinking she gives in to whatever it is that is calling to her as she closes her eyes and joins her lips to his again, pressing them but a tiny bit more intensely against his for several seconds.&nbsp; Her hand slips around his neck as well, gently trying to pull him closer.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>22-06-2006, 17:27:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>With the certainty that she wants this, too, Moloch leans into the kiss, his passion increasing with every passing moment, a ferocious intensity in his eyes as they bore into hers.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>22-06-2006, 17:43:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She would have pressed herself closer to him, but found she could not, there was no room left between them.&nbsp; It was a heady feeling, kissing him.&nbsp; One she didn't want to end.&nbsp; Her passion grew to meet his, as if she was feeding off of his feelings somehow, her lips softening under his tender assault.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>22-06-2006, 18:38:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>One of his hands slips easily around her waist in a part protective, part possessive embrace. He breaks the kiss, however, for just a moment to speak some rushed words, which somehow sound unelegant and harsh to his own ears compared to the beauty of their kiss.<br><br>"I don't know how, I don't know why, but I love you."<br><br>He kisses her again, deeply.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>22-06-2006, 19:11:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His arm around her makes Melisse feel desired and safe and she smiled against his lips because of it.&nbsp; She started to protest when he pulled away, but the words following shocked her into silence.&nbsp; She had no time to respond, however, as he quickly kissed her again.&nbsp; She returned the kiss fully, trying to file his words away for later, but having a difficult time.&nbsp; Surely this could not be love so soon.&nbsp; Yes she was drawn to him in a way she didn't understand, and she felt something for him she had never felt before.&nbsp; But love took time, didn't it.&nbsp; Maybe it was just the effects of the potion she had given him, maybe he was just confused.&nbsp; Still...the longer he kissed her the easier it became to lose herself in his kiss instead of worrying about his word choice.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>28-06-2006, 02:21:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>She feels him smile into the kiss easily and genuinely, as if nothing in the world but what he's doing now could make him feel half as content. His embrace and kiss are warm with emotion, as far from the cold, distant, analytical figure he tried to present to her when they first met.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>28-06-2006, 06:41:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse's orderly mind did just like it always had, it focused on a single goal and sought to meet it as quickly and efficiently as possible.&nbsp; Her goal was simple, to kiss him as much as she possibly could for just as long as he would let her.&nbsp; Yet while she was a leader on the battlefield, an innate talent for tactics as well as her considerable prowess with her swords made her thus, she was relatively unskilled in the way of men, particularly this one man so full of mystery and contradictions.&nbsp; So while she would have liked to deepen their kiss and their connection she had to hope that he would want the same and that he would make that move and lead her now.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>29-06-2006, 02:30:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>She feels one of his hands move from her neck to run gently through her hair, stroking it even as his tongue tentatively reaches out to just touch her lips with the softest brush.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>29-06-2006, 02:45:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Just as Melisse was beginning to worry about the consequences of kissing him she felt his tongue.&nbsp; That tiny touch was enough to make Melisse make a quiet little purring noise in the back of her throat and forget everything but here and now, and she parted her lips slightly in reponse.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 00:25:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>A little encouraged, Moloch extends his tongue further to lightly caress hers, stroking it a few times as he holds her, his eyes wide and unusually soulful, no longer holding anything back.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 06:58:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse mimicked his actions, following his lead, allowing his tongue to touch hers and actively touching his in return.&nbsp; She would worry about the magic he practiced later, right now this was the only thing that mattered.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>indarkestknight</strong> on <strong>05-07-2006, 00:38:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>His tongue twines with hers, almost dancing with it as his eyes bore into herself, the touch soft, gentle, yet holding the promise of something more potent yet.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Chance Encounters and Unlikely Allies</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Purple</strong> on <strong>05-07-2006, 02:03:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melisse's hand began to gently stroke the back of his neck and then slipped down beneath the fabric of his clothing to caress his skin while their kiss began to drive her slowly insane.&nbsp; She positioned herself a little better, a little closer to him where he leaned against the wall holding her, by moving one of her legs out on the other side of one of his.
			</dd>
		</dl>
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