The Rogue and the Princess [Xana & Aeval]
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		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Solos =&gt; Topic started by: WyldRanger on 29-03-2010, 06:34:44</h2>
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				Title: <strong>The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>29-03-2010, 06:34:44</strong>
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				[co-author’s note: first post a combination of posts posted elsewhere]<br><br>"Whoa" said Krandel as he pulled back on the reigns of his loyal steed, bringing the creature to a halt before the large oak tree next to the well worn path. Dropping gracefully down beside the horse, he ruffled its mane and whispered into its ear with a smile at the sound of the horse's nays, "There, there. Now you'll finally get to rest."<br><br>Unloading his pack from the back of the well groomed horse, the scruffy ranger went to work making camp after a long day marching through the woods.<br><br>As he went about making camp and gathering the water and food for his ride, Krandel Shieldhart thought back to what brought him to this well worn path through these woods that were as familiar to him as the back of his hand.<br><br>It had been just over a day and a half ago that he arrived in the capital city of Barristown and when he entered his favorite resting spot where the bartender who knew him well from the time that they spent together in service of the king's army many years previously he was greeted with a tall frosty stein of his favorite poison and some news from the castle.<br><br>Though he wasn't all that fond of the present lord of the area, he found himself piqued when he was told of the raid on the castle and kidnapping of the lord's beautiful daughter.<br><br>Always on the lookout for adventure, he was eager to find this lord's daughter, if only to help him get on his good graces. Never know when the word of a lord will come in handy.<br><br>As he nestled himself down to sleep in the rapidly quieting forest, he smiled to himself at how he was going to make his entrance to the enemy camp which based upon the signs that he was following was not far off.<br><br>It wasn't long before he fell asleep underneath the stars and lush green canopy of the forest, with dreams of adventuring and excitement running through his head. <br><br><br>--------------------------------<br><br>Taisie was a Princess of Rathlin was said to be the most beautiful woman in the world with her dazzling blue eyes and long curling tresses. She had been pampered and spoiled but this had not ruined her wonderful, caring personality. She had a beautiful voice and could play the piano forte at the level of the most accomplised Court pianist.<br><br>Her father: Lord Raithlin was kind to his subjects and vengeful to his enemies. Peace had reigned in Raithlin for many a year and although Taisie had her Court Guards they were laxed in the security of her because no one had ever come close to harming or suggesting any type of harm- well- not until that fateful midday morning.<br><br>Taisie had gone out for her morning ride with her pony: Wind. She went out every morning during the week and unfortunately her kidnappers had taken note of that! Her Guards rode out with her every morning but they were not as dutiful as they should have been in keeping watch over her. She would race them and they trully, could not best her, so they 'let' her beat them- or so they told one another.<br><br>She had raced them far from the castle walls and was in the dense forest when all at once, two men fell from the trees and knocked her off her horse. They held a cloth to her mouth and in no time she was unconscious not able to put up a fight or scream a danger cry.<br><br>They whisked her off quickly taking Wind with them to give them lead time to flee her guards. They rode for a day and night fleeing towards the North and to the lands of Raithlin's enemies. Not only this, but before gaining entrance to his enemies lands, all who rode that way had to pass through LambsIvy. It was a pleasant name to hear but a ruthless forest to travel through with all manor of vagabonds and outlaws living there. <br><br>The lead kidnapper: Raimslen Tomwood knew the password to give to his brothers and so, when they stopped in the wood, no harm came to them. Taisie did not wake all that time that they stopped there overnight, so drugged she was.<br><br>Next morning Taisie woke in a dark stable- she found herself lying on the floor in the hay. She sat up and felt nauseous- her head pounding so hard. Tears fell down her eyes as the events of the previous day becoming clear in her mind.<br><br>What is this horrible place I am and who has dared to take me here!<br><br>She looked around and could discern nothing as it was so dark inside the place. She did not know what time of day it was or what day it was. She stood up almost falling as weakness and the after effects of the drug overcame her. She slumped to the ground her face in her hands crying.[/i] <br><br><br>-------------------------------------<br><br>It wasn't the sun breaking through the wooded realm that awoke Krandel that morning, but the smelly and odd sensation of what turned out to be a horses' tongue slapping against his face. "Alright, alright...hold your horses..." mumbled the former farmer turned rogue.<br><br>Breaking camp a couple of hours later, he turned his focus back to the task at hand. The idea of rescuing the princess from kidnappers had it's own appeal for the adventuring types such as himself, but more then that he had heard that this particular princess was quite beautiful and he looked forward to seeing if her beauty was all that he had heard it to be.<br><br>It was actually surprisingly simple to follow the tracks that the kidnappers had left as they were not the most professional of people and it wasn't long before he spied their camp in a clearing not far from the path.<br><br>Keeping a lookout for guards or other surprises he dropped from his stead, tying the reins to the trunk of a nice pine that gave enough cover to hide his ride from prying eyes.<br><br>He heard little, as the kidnappers where not being very chatty and he slipped up into a bunch of tall pines, softly and quietly making his way up to the top to scout the area. Below him, he saw a typical group of ruffians. Some making lunch, some playing games of chance.<br><br>He didn't see the princess anywhere around and began to wonder just where they might've stashed her when he saw one of the vagabonds take a bowl of what appeared to be soup into a shed that had only the sound of horses coming from it. Knowing that the bowl wasn't exactly enough to satisfy a well kept horse, he figured that must be where the princess was being kept.<br><br>Knowing where she was being kept was one thing, getting her out of there with little commotion was another and he stayed up in the branches of the large pine scouting the rountines the ruffians were keeping around the area, plotting his move to take place later that night, so that the cover of darkness could cover his entrance...and his escape with the princess in tow. <br><br>-----------------------------------------------------<br><br>The guards looked around suddenly thinking they should have seen the Princess by now..they galloped to where they had last seen her enter the forest but found no sign of her. They began to call out her name to answer them, but no sound echoed back save their own voices. One of the guards found her scarf, wrapped around one of the trees- it was cut in several pieces. He called his brother in arms and they dismounted and examined the earth on the floor of the forest. One of them bent down and looked up at the other:<br><br>“There were 2 of them I believe..the footprints are fresh..She was dragged..we must tell the King!”<br><br>They raced back to let the King know. He was furious and frantic all at the same time.<br><br>“Who would DARE to kidnap my daughter! Nothing like this has been done for a hundred years! Mount the Royal Guards! I want 50 of your best men riding out after them- scour the village and towns and ask if anyone had seen any person unusual to these parts! FIND HER! There is a reward of a Barony for the man that finds her ..alive..and brings her home safe!”<br><br>The King also went to mount and ride with them for he would not leave them to look for his most precious jewel by themselves. <br>_________________________________<br>There was noise outside the place she was being held, Taisie stopped crying and sat up. The door opened and light streamed in. She could tell at least, that it was daytime! A gruff looking man- with matted hair, unshaven and smelly clothes took a bowl to her.<br><br>“Here you go!” He said in a very gruff voice, as if he wasn’t used to using it.<br><br>“We all eat this- it sticks to yur innards and keeps ya warm. I brought ya this skin a wata –thought ya might be wanin sometin ta drink!”<br><br>He was gruff but his actions signaled kindness. Taisie book both as she extended shaking hands to him.<br><br>“Th..thank you. Do you know what they are going to do with me?”<br><br>He looked down at his feet as if he was embarrassed. “um..not sure..that’s fur Raimslen ta deecide”.<br><br>“Can you tell me where we are?” she asked quietly.<br><br>“We are in LambsIvy.”<br><br>Taisie let out a slow breath..she knew what that meant. And if they were in the heart of the forest, then these men would try to sell her to the highest bidder. All she could do was hope her father and his men found her before she was sold!<br><br>The man left and bolted the door behind her. She drank from the bowl of soup quite hungrily and was glad to find it was indeed, quite good and hearty. She held the skin to her lips and drank greedily of the water as she was quite thirsty from the drug and it being almost a day since she had anything to eat or drink. <br><br>She layed in the hay, listening to the noises outside, the gruff men’s voices, the whinnying of the horses, the whistling of the wind. In a while, she drifted off to sleep only to be wakened a short time later by yelling and noises of horses galloping and men screaming! She huddled herself in the corner now afraid for what was happening! Someone yanked at the door – hard and pulled it open- 2 men..different men in outfits that were more elaborate and elegant- took her by the arms- pulling her. She kicked and yelled at them:<br><br>“Who are you!! Where are you taking me!!”<br><br>One of them said: “We are here to rescue you Princess!”<br><br>She stopped kicking and went along with them quietly. They covered her with their bodies- she could not see but she could hear a great struggle happening all around her. One of the men lifted her up to sit in front of him and he galloped away with her while the other man rode behind them. The came out of the forest after a short while and an elaborate carriage was waiting for them. The men stopped. The one from behind dismounted and stood ready to help Cara down from the horse. He lifted her gently and opened the carriage door and placed her inside. <br><br>No one was inside and there was no insignia on the outside of the carriage but there was a fur blanket inside and an ermin coat for her as well as a lavender scented wash cloth and a new gown and under clothes. She pulled the curtains on the windows and began to wash herself as best she could. She took off her dirtied and ragged under clothes and dressed herself in the fresh new ones and likewise with the gown which was a beautiful purple velvet. All the stays were easy enough for her to tie herself. There were also new leggings for her to wear and lovely purple velvet shoes. She tossed all her old clothes out the window and straightened herself out wondering where they were going and who had rescued her.<br><br>[/i]Certainly it is one of my father’s Lords- oh my will he be rewarded handsomely!<em> <br><br>As the carriage rocked back and forth, the motion caused Taisie to once again drift into sleep. She pulled the fur blanket over her and slept for the rest of the way. <br><br><br>--------------------------------------<br><br>Krandel was not expecting this turn of events! He had already started to visualize just how great it would feel to be the one to rescue the princess and present her to the lord to get his well deserved reward. Now here were a group of people that were snatching that hefty reward from his grasp!<br><br>He was not about to stand for this.<br><br>Cursing at his bad luck at being just in the wrong place at the wrong time, he dropped deftly down into the lush forest and ran quickly to his horse, snapping the reins and directing the swift equine in order to catch these would be rescuers.<br><br>Since they were not going that quickly, he was able to quickly catch up to them and pacing them along the roadside, yet still hidden in the forest he made a quick decision that could easily backfire should things so wrong. However, he had vowed to rescue the princess no matter the obstacle and this was just part of the fun!<br><br>Smiling grimly, he leapt from his steed and grabbed onto a branch of the pine before him and twirled around almost in a gymnastic move that resulted in him crashing into the coach’s car, tumbling through the door and in front of the startled princess.<br><br>“Ummm…hi there….I’m here to rescue you…” <br><br>-------------------------------------------<br><br>Taisie sat up abruptly when a loud noise disturbed her sleep and a voice said "I'm here to rescue you."<br><br>She was amazingly calm.<br><br>"I have been rescued thank you very much. Now, if you would kindly leave the same way you came in."<br><br>She turned her back on him. She COULD actually scream and she believe one of the soldiers would come to her rescue but, this invader seemed harmless enough so...she decided to be generous and let him leave without being harmed. <br><br>-----------------------------------------<br><br>Tilting his head at her bewildering response to his declaration, Krandel pondered for a brief moment just how he was going to convince her that coming with him was in her best interest.<br><br>Eyes lighting up as an idea came to him, he reached out and took her by the arm, making her turn to look at him. Even though it was going to be a lie, he had to convince her somehow that leaving with him was the right idea.<br><br>"Your highnessness...you must understand me...these people are not here to rescue you. Quite the opposite in fact. Why else would they be so lax in securing where you are to allow me to just fly in here and not notice?" He hoped the circumstances of him being there along with the fact that the carriage had not slowed since his arrival would presuade the princess of his point so that he could be the one to get the reward being offered, instead of these already well-off nobles. <br><br>----------------------------------------------<br><br>He tugged at her arm and her head snapped back to look at him.<br><br>How DARE he touch me! Just WHO does he think he is!!<br><br>She opened her mouth ready to scream- when she closed it as she listened to him. What he said started to sink into her mind and she started to question, just a little, who these men were.<br><br>Although they were considerate of her, she was surprised that she saw no crest of recognition on the coach, that the men did not tell her who their Lord was, and , that there was no Lady in Waiting for her to help her. <br><br>She looked at him, really looked at him. His clothes were not that poorly made but he looked rather gruff.<br><br>"Who ARE you? And WHO do you work for?" <br><br>--------------------------------------------------<br><br>Finally up close and personal to the princess he found himself struck by just how beautiful she really was. Of course, this whole job was about the money that he would get as a result of saving this woman single handedly.<br><br>But if he could find a way to charm her, he would have an even better chance of possibly seeing her again. With an exaggerated bow with a flourish at the end he introduced himself to her. "My name is Krandel Shieldhart and I am here to keep you safe from those who would hurt you."<br><br>Taking her hand in a gallant fashion, kissing it lightly before gracing her with a smile through his partly scruffy facial features, "and I am here on behest of your father...of course if I had known just how beautiful you were I would've made a point to do it for free...unfortunately I was not aware and will receive a reward, but the pleasure of your company for a brief time is more than enough reward for me."<br><br>As the carriage continued on, he pulled her closer and wrapped an arm about her. "Now, your highness may I take you out of this contraption?" Without waiting for her word, he leaped out of the carriage with her in his arm, only to land atop his faithful stead. Taking the reins, he quickly directed the horse into the woods and smiled at his deviousness in capturing the beautiful woman riding behind me on his faithful steed.<br><br>"Hold on tight, my lady...this could be a bit bumpy...but I promised that you would be returned as soon as possible and I like to keep my promises." <br><br>------------------------------------------<br><br>He spoke quickly and acted quickly! Before she knew what was happening he had her in his arms and was whisking her out of the carriage! They somehow managed to jump on his horse with her behind him. He had a fast stallion but as she turned to look..she saw that the guards on the carriage had noticed them retreating into the trees.<br><br>One of them jumped from the carriage seat onto one of the arabian stallions- they were known for their swiftness. He unhitched the horse in no time and was in fast pursuit of them!<br><br>She hung onto him for dear life and yelled into into the wind..<br><br>"They are after us!".<br><br>The one guard was fast approaching and the other was not far behind. Both swords were drawn. Their horses were no match for his! They quickly caught up with them - one of them racing ahead and the other- his sword drawn on the side of them.<br><br>"STOP! We will take the princess but we will kill you unless you stop right now!" <br><br>---------------------------------------------------<br><br>He did not expect them to realize what had happened so quickly. Cursing softly under his breath at this unfortunate turn of events, Krandel shouted back at the princess, “Hold on! This could get a bit rough”.<br><br>Ducking low, he produced a couple of large walnuts that he kept in his side packet that hung off the neck of his thoroughbred horse just for situations like this.<br><br>Smiling a defiant smile towards his pursuers who were already next to them and in front of them respectively. Leaning back tightly on the reigns he stopped the horse abruptly, so quickly that he caused his pursuers to gallop past them.<br><br>Turning slightly to offer a reassuring grin, “Don’t worry…they won’t bother us much after this.”<br><br>Slipping out a sling and putting the walnuts in them, He twirls them around his head and lets them go hitting both in the chest, just strong enough to drop them to the ground, having their horses run off without them.<br><br>With a shout and a laugh, he smiles towards her flashing a confident grin, “See how easy that was?”<br><br>With a tug of the reins, he guides their ride towards a part of the forest few dare to tread. As the woods get darker, he slowed before stopping and climbing down. Offering a hand out to assist the princess off the horse’s back, he welcomed her to him home.<br><br>They had arrived at a small clearing where a fire pit was situated in front of a medium sized tent and he offered her a glass of wine from a barrel that sat just inside the tent flap as he started a fire in the pit. “I’ll get you back to your home in the morning, until then, please make yourself at home.” <br><br>--------------------------------------------------<br><br>Taisie hung onto her protector- or so he said he was, she wasn't quite sure at the moment. He was racing with her behind him and being threatened by the OTHER soldiers who said THEY were her protectors! She closed her eyes and hung on for dear life. <br><br>All of a sudden their horse stopped! She opened her eyes and listened to Krandel and heard the mischief in his voice.<br><br>Exactly what is he up to? He is only 1 and they are several! He can't possibly think he can outrun them!<br><br>She watched in surprised awe as he threw several walnuts at the guards and unhorsed them! She shouted in triumph and then quickly let her hand cover her mouth not quite sure what she was excited about! She wasn't quite sure where they were going but he had prevailed and so she was on the back of his horse racing to wherever he was taking them.<br><br>They rode until the sun began to set and darkness draped the sky. Finally, Krandel stopped and jumped off the horse standing there with his hand out to her to help her down. As she stood on the ground and saw the tent and he handed her a glass of wine she looked at him in amazement.<br><br>"Who are you..I mean REALLY? " She stretched her arms out and twirled around.."In the middle of no where you anticipated where we were going to ride from and to? And you did this all by yourself? That is REALLY hard to believe!"<br><br>She looked at him incredulously..this just wasn't possible....was it? <br><br>----------------------------------------------<br><br>Smiling at her expected astonishment at everything that had transpired, from his rescue of her to the revelation of his home. There were many things that he was, but right now the most important of those things was the fact that he was her rescuer.<br><br>Handing her the glass of wine, he took a sip out of his own glass and bowed with a flourish.<br><br>"I believe that I have mentioned that my name is Krandel Shieldhart, and while I may not have the upbringing that you have, I have found my own way to be benevolent to those that your father has abandoned. While I enjoy it, it does have it’s drawbacks.”<br><br>Rising to walk over to the fire he casually mentioned something that he hoped that she would take notice of. “For instance, it has been far too long since I have had the privilege of having the companionship of such a gorgeous beauty such as yourself.”<br><br>Flashing a confident grin towards her he knelt before the fire, cooking the meal of deer meat and vegetables, and began to play a tune on his flute. <br><br>What he is playing <br><br><br>-----------------------------------------------<br><br>Taisie was stunned by his musical ability- by his words- by his gentlemanly politeness-by his sophisticated manner-well..she was awed by just about everything he did or said!<br><br>If he was to appear in Court, anyone would have thought him a Nobleman's son raised in money and the shadow of elegance and refinement!<br><br>She looked at him and raised her glass.<br><br>"You are a conundrum, Mr. Krandel Shieldhart! Surely you grew up in a house of refinement? And what is this you say about my father abandoning people? Speak up, Mr. Shieldhart, for I would know what unpleasantries you speak of!!!"<br><br>It would do Mr. Krandel Sheildhart to listen very well to the tone of her voice for she was not one to waste time on imbeciles and fools!<br><br>With her arms crossed over her stomach, she waited for his replies! <br><br>------------------------------------------------------------<br><br>You would think that after rescuing someone from the clutches of evil kidnappers that one would so some respect to her rescuer. Frowning a bit he leaned forward and dished out the dinner that he had prepared over the fire, handing her one plate full of roasted beef and roasted vegetables.<br><br>After taking a bite, he looked towards her, eyeing her up and down in the dark firelight.<br><br>"When was the last time, your lord father cared to wander outside of that castle of his? And why is it that none of the common folk are able to partake in his majesty? If it wasn't for someone like me, none of the people in this forest would ever get to sleep with a full stomach."<br><br>He drank a bit of the sweet wine and then shrugged, "And don't think that I care all that much for you. Sure you're gorgeous and everything, but I'm only rescuing you so that I can take the reward and give it to the people."<br><br>He continued to eat in silence as his eyes flitted between the roaring fire and the princess to guage her reactions to the hard truth that he was laying before her. <br><br></em>
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>09-04-2010, 01:38:47</strong>
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				His words hit her like a barrel of ice water. She froze where she was. The words that left her mouth were chilled, each one clipped and sharp as if it was a dagger. She was not aiming to hurt him but his words hurt her. She stood up, her regal bearing apparent.<br><br>"You..do..no..know..what..you...are...talking...about. My father LOVES his subjects! He has kept peace in our lands for many a year. He has helped those that were ill and could not work by letting them stay in the castle keep. I have nursed them until they were strong and could return to their own homes. Cook has baked bread and made soup that I have carried to the homes of those that are ill with fever or hurt from a fall or injury from war. YOU "<br><br>her finger poked at his chest as she spoke..<br><br>"YOU do not know what you speak. Take me back to my father..let him pay you handsomely..do with the money whatever you wish..I would no longer wish to stay with a bounty hunter such as yourself as I would wish to stay with my father's enemies! You are one and the same!"<br><br>With that Taisie ran into the tent that was set up..she dropped the flap as a sign to him to NOT ENTER! She dropped to her knees and wept. <br><br><em>How could he say those awful things of her father and what her father had tried to do for the people! She KNEW what a wonderful man he was and how many of the people loved him! </em><br><br>She could not wait to get back home..away from this awful man and these awful surroundings! She wept until she cried herself to&nbsp; a fitful sleep waiting for the morrow.<br><br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>13-04-2010, 19:08:32</strong>
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				He did not expect this woman to break down so easily. He knew he had been harsh with her, but from his perspective what he had said to her was completely true and she needed to come to the realization of the truth sometime if not for the betterment of herself, then for the betterment of the entire kingdom.<br><br>Krandel Shieldhart, however, was not a man without emotions. The way that she reacted made him wonder, for the first time if he was entirely correct in his reasons for doing what he was doing. His face grew grim in the dark light of the campfire as he thought about everything that made him travel down the path he was on.<br><br>When he was younger, it was understood by those surrounding him (including his long fallen parents) that the king was a good man. All of that changed to Krandel though when the king's army killed his parents along with many of the people that he knew. Sure they may have been a scruffy bunch, but they had done nothing to king to make his army come after them in such a violent manner.<br><br>That dark day when he held his parents in his arms, and wept was the day that he turned into the rogue mercenary that he found himself to be currently.<br><br>Having had his fill of both the meal and the self reflection, he got up and wandered over towards the tent and as he opened the flap saw the princess curled up on the makeshift bed and sighed. It looked like it was going to be another long and uncomfortable night.<br><br>Sighing, he gathered a wool blanket and a soft moss covered rock to sleep upon. As he closed his eyes, he wondered what the morning was going to bring and how he was going to handle the princess.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>14-04-2010, 17:15:20</strong>
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				Taisie woke up in the middle of the night. She had had several dreams..or small nightmares really- of being kidnapped and bound and gagged and taken away from her home- her father that she loved. In one of the dreams she was held in a dungeon until she was old and gray. In another she was ravaged and raped by the soldiers of a horrible and viscious king and in another there was someone like Krandle who kept her hidden away and just laughed as she begged and pleaded to be let go and returned to her father.<br><br>Taisie was worn out from her bad dreams but they had steeled her will and resolve. She had made up her mind..she would NOT stay here and wait for her capture to decide her fate! She was her father's daughter and she had a will of her own! She would take her destiny in her own hands and make her own way home! She may die trying, but she was NOT going to just lay here and allow a strange man to choose what would happen to her! <br><br>Taisie dressed very quietly. She peeked out of the tent and saw that Krandle was sleeping outside. Her kidskin shoes made little sound on the ground. As she left the tent she made sure she had taken the small knife that she had found there. It was not much use to ward off attackers but it was better then nothng and a stab in the right place would be VERY painful!<br><br>She crept slowly to where the lone horse was. She ran her hand up his nose to allow him to smell her and get used to her scent. The gods were with her and for whatever reason, he did not whinny and wake the sleeping Knight. She was an excellent rider and she jumped up on his back. She did not take the time to saddle him- she could ride bareback just as well as with a saddle. She took his reigns and turned him- as she did THEN he whinnied..she looked at the Knight just sitting up from the horse's sound- their eyes connected- and she turned and gave the horse the lead to gallop out of there! She would not wait or tarry or hesitate! She was off to wherever the road led. Somehow, someway she would find her way back to her father's castle!
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>15-04-2010, 20:50:18</strong>
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				Krandel was having a pleasant dream where he was showing the smug defiant princess all of the horrible things that her father had done to Krandel’s people. He took his time directing her through all of the burned out holes in the forest canopy, the torn and shredded trees that had protected his parents homeland. The screams and struggles from the armies slaughter of unarmed women and children. Luckily for him, he had been stolen away the night previously by a close family friend or he would have been burned to a crisp along with the rest of his family.<br><br>Suddenly, he bolted up and his dark eyes connected with the princess who just happened to be sitting atop his horse! He was actually thinking of taking her to the castle that very morning, but now all of those plans were beginning to change as he took in the incredible scene of her trying to ride his horse.<br><br>All it took was the single sharp whistle and the large horse remained where it was, not heeding anything the princess could try to get the steed to move. He rose up and leisurely headed towards her and shook his head, “And just what are you trying to do?”<br><br>The expression written across his face was a mixture of disappointment and anger at how she was so brazenly attempting to steal his horse.&nbsp; He came up next to his beloved companion and ran a hand along the strong muscles of its neck and glared at her, “Trying to steal my horse? That isn’t very noble of you, especially considering that I let you have free access to my home while I waited for the right time to return you to the castle.” He shook his head softly, “And here I thought you might be different than your father.”
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>23-04-2010, 17:37:40</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				To her utter amazement and disbelief..no matter how much she pressed her heel into the belly of the great big animal..it would not move!! Krandel must have hypnotized his horse! <br><br>"OOF" she remarked as she slid down the great beast's belly. She walked right up to Krandel with her hands on her hips.<br><br>"I was NOT stealing your horse. I was only borrowing it so I could leave you and your awful lies about my father! I do not need you or want you to take me to my father's castle , I can find my own way! I would not wish to trouble you or disappoint you or have anything to do with you actually!"<br><br>She turned away from him and stood in her tracks looking to the left and then to the right- neither direction seemed better than the other ; she started off down the road to the right without a look back at Krandel and without a thought of what would happen to her. She didn't care-she just didn't want to listen to the awful things he said about her father.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>03-05-2010, 17:38:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Krandel wasn't quite used to being spoken to like this. Of course, usually he didn't have someone with as fiercely independent mannerisms that Taisie was revealing to him at this moment. He didn't really expect to her to be this defiant about being rescued. Most people in his experience would be grateful for what he had done for her, but she continued to be hung up about how she viewed her father, and how he was telling her a completely different viewpoint.<br><br>He rushed after her and took her arm, spinning her around so that he could look into her eyes. As he spoke he noticed truly for the first time that she was actually quite strikingly beautiful. However, romance was not on his mind at this current time and situation. <br><br>"They are not lies, I promise you that," he spoke in a much more subdued manner, "and if you would allow me to show you the place where these awful things happened, you would more open to the possibilities of what transpired in my life."<br><br>With that said, he whistled sharply and the galloping hoofs of his mount were soon heard as it burst through the brush and came right up next to them. "I know that you don't believe me," he continued as he gathered the reins and offered her his hand, "but allow me to show you what I mean before you return to your father's castle."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>11-05-2010, 05:13:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She had taken several steps when Krandel came up and spun her around..she lifted her hand immediately ready to slap his face for daring to touch her..she refrained as his tone softened. He bid her to go with him to see the lies of her father..she did not want to oblige him but a niggling voice in her head began to chime in that it was not a bad idea..that at least she would have a ride to her father's castle. So..softly she looked up into his eyes and said:<br><br>"Fine! I do not agree with you but if it will put an end to your terrible tales..then I will do it! Let us leave right away!"<br><br>She took the hand he offered and he pulled her up to sit with her legs spread over the horse..to sit behind him. She wrapped her arms around his waist to secure herself so she would not fall off.<br><br>"Well...here we are! Let's go so we can make a quick ride of it and I can PROVE that you are wrong!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>12-05-2010, 05:42:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Krandel should have felt pleased that she had decided to join him, but what he felt inside was more of a determination to prove to her exactly why he felt the way he did about her father. And perhaps it would give her a moment of clarity to persuade her of his reasoning.<br><br>Taking the reins in hand, he tugged them and told Taisie to hold on tightly as his faithful steed ran briskly through the woods in the area surrounding her father's castle.<br><br>As they approached the smoking and ruinous clearing that marked the spot years ago where his family had been killed along with an entire village of innocent people. Drawing up the horse to a halt just outside the area he waved an arm and looked back towards his companion, "This is the place, the very place where your father did what he did."<br><br>Slipping off the horse he took her hand and guided her through the maze of wreckage. Stopping in places where markings even now indicated that a well armed army did all the damage.&nbsp; Walking up to a corner of a burned out husk of a house, he grimaced and knelt and procured a badge from beside the family and rubbed it off, cleaning it off.<br><br>On it was a crest that Krandel knew would be recognized by Taisie and he handed it to her with a downward glance, attempting to stifle a sob as the area brought back a flood of emotions and he remained knelt down by the ground and once again silently swore vengeance.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>26-05-2010, 05:23:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Taisie hung onto the Knight's waist as he galloped through the forest, obviously knowing where he was&nbsp; headed. They stopped just in front of a clearing: not one that was barren but rather a clearing made by a ravishing army. Taisie slid down from his horse and her hand went immediately to her mouth to stifle the horror of houses burnt, fields of crops destroyed needlessly and of so many lives lost. <br><br>"Who could have done this horrible deed?" She whispered to herself not even aware of Krandel's presence.<br><br>She walked through the devastation, sickened by what she saw. It was not that she had been sheltered or that she was a skittish young lady it was that she could close her eyes and almost see the women and children running for cover and the men trying to protect them. She could almost hear the cries and screams as they were murdered where they stood or cowered and tears trickled from her eyes for the babes that lost their lives before they had even lived them.<br><br>She went to where Krandel was kneeling..wanting to ask him a question when he lifted the badge with her father's Coat of Arms embroidered on it. She gasped when she saw it all the images of how she had seen him as her father and protector, as the Protector of the Realm, of how he had played with herwhen she was a child and laughed with her.How could this possibly be the same man? Her mind could not reconcile with the kind and gentle, loving man that she knew her father to be. All these thoughts rushed through her head leaving her in utter bewilderment and such a deep sadness..she turned to Krandel wishing to explain what she was feeling when all of a sudden her mind blanked - her eyes could only see black and although she realized she was falling..there was nothing she could do to stop herself as she fell to the ground ..fainting..her body taking over and protecting her mind and heart from what she had not felt yet: the depths of utter despair.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>28-05-2010, 04:36:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was about to turn and scoff at her after hearing those words come out of her mouth, but after he gave her the badge that held a significant meaning for her and he saw her waver all thoughts of malice that he held for her father vanished as quickly as they came. The sight of her eyes glazing over was enough of a signal that something was not right that Krandel quickly went into motion and found himself catching her just as she was about to hit the ground.<br><br>He expected it to be a shock to her, to find out that someone that she cared deeply about would do something of this nature, but he hadn't quite expected her to faint on him. Apparently she wasn't as ready for the shock that she experienced as much as he thought she would be. Holding her in his strong arms, he walked over to a pile of leaves underneath a nearby tree and gently lowered her down onto the soft pile.<br><br>Turning away but for a moment, he hopped over to his faithful steed, pulled out a strip of worn cloth and a canteen which he poured water out of to create an improvised wet towel that he placed upon her forehead upon his return to her side. Realizing that they may be here for a while, he went about gathering supplies with which to fix a fire upon her awakening. Once the fire was set, he managed to pull up to her and whisper to her prone form, "I'm so sorry Taisie...for you to find out this way. No one ever wants anything bad to happen, and I'm sorry you had to learn this knowledge the hard way."<br><br>Kneeling down beside her, he allowed himself to look at her for the first time. Her strong willful spirit dampened by the shock to her system allowed her natural beauty to become apparent to him at long last and he found himself surprised at how easy she was to look at. He blushed as he noticed that he was starting to stare at her in a way that was not proper and quickly turned his gaze back to the fire that he stoked lightly and he began to fix a light soup for her once she regained her mind and awoke from her terrible shock of discovering this terrible event that was her father's doing.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>07-06-2010, 01:59:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Taisie slowly woke from her fainted sleep. Her eyes opened and she found herself staring up at the sky. Slowly she sat up and the horrible reality of what she had learned washed over her once again. Her head fell to her hands as she began to cry. She loved her father and he had shown her only love and kindness. He had been the most attentive of fathers, adoring and understanding, giving and caring. How could such a wonderful man as that, order such devastaton and horror as this?<br><br>Her heart wrenching sobs slowed to tears and one hand reached out to Krandel as she lifted her head and looked at him.<br><br>"I am so very sorry for the loss of all those you loved. I love my father and he has shown me only love back. I cannot reconcile how such a loving man would do...do..such an awful thing." <br><br>It took much for her to say those words outloud for in the saying of them she acknowledged that indeed they had happened. And in the acknowledgement it made her think how would she feel if her father had been brutally murdered and there was nothing she could do about it.<br><br>"Tell me, good Knight, what can I do to help? I cannot right this horrible wrong but I will confront my father this very day. I cannot let this pass without finding from him his reasons although no reason would be sufficient an explanation for the murder of his own people."<br><br>She looked at Krandel now with new eyes. He should have killed her on sight for all the hatred he must harbor for her father, and yet, he spared her life. She did not understand why but she meant to find out.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>07-06-2010, 06:38:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When he noticed the young princess stirring, Krandel quickly raced around the fire and took her hand. As he looked down at her, he noticed just how vulnerable she seemed at that moment. He knew that she was a fierce and independent young woman with a strong determination to do right and he began to sense that the determination he was aware of would now be directed at her own father as she found out the truth.<br><br>He assisted her up to a sitting position and rested his other hand behind her, lest she collapse again. As his eyes looked into hers, he found himself starting to sympathize with the events that were becoming more real to her, and the doubts that had to be going through her mind.<br><br>He nodded at her words, but lowered his eyes slightly before returning them to her determined gaze. "I think it might be best if you rest for a bit, gather your strength before you confront your father over this my Lady." Getting up, he walked over to the soup that he had prepared and dished out a bowl to her and gave it to her. "If there is one thing, I learned in my days as a Rogue and outsider it is that you should always make sure that you are well rested and well fed before going into any tough confrontation."<br><br>He smiled and sat next to her as they ate, watching the fire crackle and smoke in the cool evening air. "I know you want to rush in and find out what happened, but I know what a shock finding this place was to you. I don't want to see that repeated, Taisie, I want you to be prepared for the worst so that you can deal with anything."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>10-06-2010, 21:49:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>Why is he being so kind to me?</em> were her thoughts as she saw Krandel walk to the fire and bend and dish out 2 bowls of soup then bring them back for the both of them. His demeaner was considerate and kind not full of anger and hatred as she was certain hers would have been.<br><br>She took the bowl in her hands and began to eat, small sips of the hot liquid- it was a tasty meal more pleasing than she had anticipated. But she did not have the stomach to eat very much, she was too upset. She nodded at the words he offered about gaining strength before you go into battle, but at the moment, she only wished to disappear from this place, even this very earth. She did not have any idea how she could right this wrong for in truth, she could not bring back Krandel's loved ones. She put the bowl down.<br><br>"Thank you Krandel, "she said looking into his eyes.&nbsp; "You have cared for me with great kindness giving me nourishment and watching over me. But in truth, I do not understand why. If I were you and these things had been done to my family, I would have killed each living relative of the one that had murdered mine in repayment. Why are you treating me with such consideration? I do not understand." She shook her head as she said these last few words and looked at him quite obviously confused.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>11-06-2010, 05:47:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Krandel found himself blushing at her words, which was extremely unusual for a rogue such as himself. He had to admit, that she had a point. As much anger that he felt for her father at doing what he had done, he found that he couldn't lay those faults back on her. Especially not after the way that she reacted once she learned that what he was telling her was the truth. At least from his point of view.<br><br>Sitting across from her, he found himself drawn to her features and knew deep down inside that he was feeling something for her that he hadn't expected. Was it compassion that he was feeling towards her, or something deeper? It didn't quite make sense to him, and it was something that he hadn't experienced in a long time.<br><br>"I have watched you for every moment since I rescued you from those people that claimed to be your father's people," he started to explain as he watched the flickering flames spread shadows across her face, making her look even more striking than usual. Or was it just that he was paying attention now? "I cannot find it in my heart to condemn you for something that your father did....especially when you were unaware your father did something. All that I can hope for is that you join me in trying to find out what happened and making those responsible pay for what they did."<br><br>The seriousness of his words were augmented by the tone of his voice and how hard it got when he spoke of vengeance for those that created such an atrocity. Sighing as he finished his meal, and looked at her again, "It may be next to impossible for me to get any rest here, close to such bad memories. But feel free to rest yourself up and we'll get started to the castle in the morning."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>11-06-2010, 06:47:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She listened intently to his honest reply. There was no malice or hatred, no anger or disdain in his words. She could tell he TRULLY meant what he said. She looked deep into his eyes..her hand coming to rest on his arm..<br><br>"I am so very blessed. If another had been instead of you, my life might have been forfeit. I will not rest until this wrong has been righted against you- I cannot bring your family back but I CAN search for the truth in all of this. And if I find..." <br><br>She stopped for a long minute..struggling to continue..<br><br>"..and if I find that my...my...." again she stopped obviously straining from the enormity of what she was about to say..<br><br>"....my father is behind the murder of your family and your village.." the tears streaming visibly down her face.."I will not rest.." her voice dropped off barely audible..."until he is brought to justice." <br><br>Her head dropped to her hands as she cried softly..She had made a promise to Krandel..it could never be taken back ...she would HAVE to carry it out..no matter what the end.. it was not lost on her that to right this wrong..she may in the end suffer Krandel's loss..but there was nothing that could be done about it. A promise was a promise..it was her honor at stake. She could at least prove that her family Coat of Arms stood for Truth, Honor and Justice.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>12-06-2010, 06:25:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Finding himself touched by her reaction, he found himself wrapping his arm around her in a comforting fashion. When he had first gone forth to rescue her it had been for not so wholesome reasons, but now he was very glad that he had in fact rescued her. Touched by her determination to help him, he found himself pulling her closer, letting her grief flow out of her. Though, he wasn't used to being in this situation, he somehow knew what was expected of him so he cuddled close with her and rocked her back and forth and whispered comforting words to the princess.<br><br>"I thank you, dear Taisie. I did not expect you to be so determined to help someone that you didn't want any part of before we met. You are a kind and gentle soul, and I am delighted to see that you have none of your father's lack of compassion for my and my people's plight."<br><br>Caressing her back softly, he allowed her to grieve for her lost innocence, and found himself strangely drawn to her and the next thing he knew he was kissing her softly. After the brief contact of their lips against one another, he pulled away, and looked into her eyes. Knowing that his own dark orbs were filled with a mixture of confusion and sympathy, he blinked and softly whispered. "I'm sorry. Perhaps I shouldn't have done that, it just seemed like you needed it."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>14-06-2010, 03:30:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She felt so alone..everything she had known was a lie! How did you go on with that knowledge? How did you make sense of it? Then she his closeness..his nearness..his comforting embrace, his soft caressing voice. Through her cloud of grief and disbelief and confusion her mind whispered:<br><br><em>He comforts me with such tenderness- how is that possible! How is it he does not hate me? Want to kill me or at least imprison me or see me gone forever? </em><br><br>She looked at him..really looked at him: He was of medium height- but broad shoulders- shoulders that comforted and consoled. She raised her hand to his cheek and let her palm slide down the side of his face, slowly. Her breath caught as a tingling began in her hand and then shot through her. Her face moved closer to his as he moved in..and kissed her..a quiet, tentative kiss that was both tender and questioning.<br><br>He apologized..but with hesitancy. Her eyes fluttered open and saw the truth, sympathy and confusion in his. She smiled shyly..<br><br>"Do not apologize, brave Knight" she said quietly. "You gave what I needed." <br><br>She stood slowly and walked over to their horses and turned and looked at him, a strong gaze gazing back at him.<br><br>"I wish to go home. I wish to confront my father. I do not wish to wait."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>16-06-2010, 19:25:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The tenderness that ran through her words almost caused Krandel to tear up. All he had done was show her what had happened to his family, but it seemed that was enough to make her change her mind about her father. Or at least was beginning to lead her to question her father's motives and actions.<br><br>The additional pleasure of having her accept the kiss also led him to believe that something mutual was going on between the two of them. This made him smile and nod as she walked over to his horse.<br><br>It was becoming quite obvious to him that her determination was not going to go away; he even had to admit to himself that he was quite ready to get his own answers from the King. Helping her up into the saddle, he mounted the steed with her and brough the reins up.<br><br>Whispering into her ear, he left her comforting words before they rode off to the castle to find out the truth.<br><br>"Taisie...whatever happens...I'll be there..."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>19-06-2010, 05:38:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His words were reassuring to her..she did not know what would happen at the Castle..she did not know if anyone would believe her or if she could count on anyone. She held onto Krandel tightly as they rode to her home. They rode throught the forests where she played, throught the mountains where she played hide and seek as a child, through the villages where she cared for the sick and then..finally.. they were at the Castle..the guards yelled to "STOP!"<br><br>When Krandle stopped his horse..she slid off and yelled up to them letting her hood fall off her head so they could see for themselves..<br><br>"It is Princess Taisie..let us in..."<br><br>The guards immediately lifted the gate..she cllimbed back on the horse and they rode into the courtyard. <br>Taisie looked at Krandel..<br><br>"Go to the Inn..get a room..wash up..I will send for you.." She turned towards the Castle, resolute in what she needed to do.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>19-06-2010, 07:13:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The ride from the ruined village of his youth to the castle was filled with delightful scenery that Krandel could nevertheless not find it in his heart to enjoy. This beautiful land was the land that was denied him with the actions of her father. He was going to demand answers and he didn't care if the King liked his methods or not. After everything that had transpired in Krandel's life he was finally going to see the person he thought was responsible for the death and destruction of his home.<br><br>When they approached, he was grateful for the presence of the beautiful princess. It would not have been possible for him to traverse this wondrous castle without her and he knew it. Even though, he knew that he had to see the King now, or his determination may falter.<br><br>He shook his head and set his face in grim determination. "I don't think so. My apologies, princess, but I need to be there. I need to see the King's face when he realizes that it was me that rescued you." He had been looking forward to this since he spied her a couple of days past, and he wasn't going to let this slip out of his fingers. Not after everything he had worked so hard for.<br><br>"I'm going with you, and that's that," he spoke as he rode forward through the city on the way to the castle. Passing through, he couldn't help but hear the whispers of those that didn't know him wondering why such a beautiful woman like Taisie would be accompanied by such a scoundrel like Krandel. That did not bother him, what DID bother him was just how beautiful the inside of the castle appeared when he knew what terrible scenery lay just on the outskirts her father's kingdom.<br><br>As they approached the inner recesses of the castle, he saw a older looking person and motioned to Taisie. "Is that your father?" he asked as he bit his lower lip to keep himself steady as he watched him warily.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>24-06-2010, 07:21:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Taisie loved horseback riding and she loved riding through her father's kingdom. But, not today. Today, the scent of the flowers, the scampering of the wood creatures and the swaying of the wind in the trees was not noticed by Taisie. Her mind was preoccupied with trying to fathom her father's reasons for destroying one of his own villages! It just didn't make sense to her..no matter how much she turned and twisted things, she could not find a reason!<br><br>She held on to Krandel's waist not even noticing that they had entered the castle realm. Only when he slowed and asked if that was her father, did it finally register to Taisie where she was!<br><br>"What?..Oh..um..no..that is a trusted elder who advises my father, but, that is not the King."<br><br>Taisie heard the slight tremor in his voice..she let her hands grasp his arm a little tighter as she whispered in his ear:<br><br>"Do not fear, dear Krandel! I will tell the King everything and you will be well taken care of!"<br><br>They stood at the moats edge and Taisie yelled across..<br><br>"Here! Here! Give entrance to your King's daughter and her Knight Protector!"<br><br>The bridge slowly was lowered and they crossed entering the courtyeard of the castle. Kandel dismounted and caught Taisie at the waist to help her down. She immediately went into the building, past the guards without an explanation for who they were! She pushed open the great doors and walked into the Great Hall without paying heed to whomever her father was speaking to..<br><br>"Father! We must speak with you, immediately! On a matter of grave concern!"<br><br>The King was used to his daughter barging in and interrupting his affairs of STate..he knew he should reprimand her, but he just did not have the heart. She was such a beautiful young woman and he loved her dearly.. He said something to whomever he was speaking to and they parted ways as Taisie walked right in and up to the King, giving him a low curtsy.<br><br>"Father! I have seen with my own eyes, the ruin of a village and our crest left behind! This brave Knight saved me from certain ruins in the arms of bandits AND his entire family was wiped out by our army! How is this possible?" <br><br>Taisie turned to Krandel and said..<br><br>"Lord Krandel, now is the time for you to tell all of us exactly what happened!"<br><br>Taisie's bravado was difficult for her- most thought it was her true self. Little did they know about her personality or that she was naturally shy! Her father knew and understood her and what it took for her to speak up like this He gestured to Krandel..<br><br>"Approach us, Lord Krandel and tell me of what my daughter speaks!"<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>27-06-2010, 16:59:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nodded at her words, while he looked stern enough to be a King, he realized upon further exploration of the man's attire that he was not dressed quite regal enough to be the ruler of this lovely kingdom. For that's what this kingdom was for those inside the castle walls and the immediate surroundings. It was lovely for those that happened to be on the inside of the realm. Those who were cursed to live on the outside, like Krandel, found it to be completely different way of life than what he was used to. He was used to clawing and scratching out a meager living, while these people that he was riding past on the way to the castle, seemed generally well off and content with being inside the castle walls.<br><br>He hoped that Taisie's claims of the King being actually a gentle soul would prove true. Past experiences though led him to remain with his guard up.<br><br>When they approached the King, he was pleasantly surprised at just how determined the princess was to see that justice was done for him and his people and that added determination allowed him to have the courage to tell the King exactly what had transpired so many years ago and how he blamed him for what happened to his family.<br><br>After he had described the awful situation to her father, he looked at him and hoped for the best, yet prepared for the worst.<br><br>The King frowned and stared hard at Krandel. "Who ARE you?" he whispered.<br><br>"Krandel Shieldhart is my name," he declared as he held onto Taisie's hand, fingers entwined with hers.<br><br>"How dare you accuse me of such horrible acts! Particularly one such as yourself who has been nothing short of a thief to me and my court" he glared at Krandel, who suddenly realized that things were not right...not right at all.<br><br>The man that broke away from the King upon their entrance did not disappear, he realized too late. The next thing he knew his arms were being forced behind him into a rough binding and the next thing he knew he was being escorted away from the King's presence.<br><br>His eyes pleaded not only with the King's but Taisie's as well, "I only accuse with that which I know. Let it be on your head if anything should happen to me," he declared with a strong voice despite his own fears and trepidations before being led into the dungeon cell. The next thing he knew, the doors were slammed shut, and he was alone with his thoughts.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>11-07-2010, 02:10:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Taisie gazed at Krandel willing him her power and pride to proceed with his awful tale. She listened attentively holding back the tears when he spoke of the awful destruction that befell his village and his family. She squeezed his hand during those very difficult moments as she knew he relived this awful tale as if it was happening at this very moment!<br><br><em>I am so very proud of him! He has more courage than many of my father's knights! I wonder if there is some medal, some reward that may be bestowed on Krandel. When I am alone with father, after this audience, I will ask him!</em><br><br>Taisie looked at her father's face just moments before Krandel had concluded the telling of his woeful tale.<br><br><em>Something is not right here..father is getting..why..he is getting ANGRY!</em><br><br>Taisie was unsure why her father would become so enraged, why would Krandel's tale not touch his heart as it had done with her?<br><br><br>She was horrified as her father accused Krandel of stealing.<br><br>"NO Father!NO! You are making a mistake. This man has stolen nothing! He has had his family stolen from him forever! I beseech you!"<br><br>Taisie was now on her knees in front of her father pleading with him,the tears spilling from here eyes as Krandel was led away.<br><br>"Rise daughter! Your head has been turned as you spent timew with him!You are a young and innocent thing and I do not fault you."<br><br>Taisie looked up and realized her father was talking to all the people in the Great Hall..as if he was trying to impress them!She had never realzed this before: that her father did not say or do things for HER welfare,but rather, for his own benefit and how he would appear in front of others.&nbsp; All of a sudden, things became clearer for her and she new what she would have to do.<br><br>She grapsed her father's leg:<br><br>"Oh father..you are so right! I did not see! Forgive me! I beg your forgiveness! You are so much wiser than I!"<br><br>"There..there..child..Rise now and go to your rooms. Rest yourself forthis has been a trying day!"<br><br>HE pulled her p and kissed her forehead. But realized just how 'smart' he was when 2 soldiers escorted her to her room! Once inside,she heard the key click in the door!<br><br>She kicked the nearby chair!<br><br>"Oh, HOW could I have been so blind all these years!"<br><br>She sat down now more frustrated and angry than anything else. She knew that her Lady in waiting would come to her for her father was nothing but correct in the manners of the castle!<br><br>Sure enough, about an hour later there was a knock on her door. <br><br>"My Lady? May I come in?"<br><br>Taisie rushed to the door..<br><br>"Yes Alicia, please do!"<br><br>"As the door was opened, Taisie rushed to her and hugged her.<br><br>"Oh Alicia! Never have I been so glad to see you!" Taisie now whispered in the other's ear. "I need your help! I have written a message to Lord Krandel andI need you to take it to him!"<br><br>"But..but..Miss! You know I would do anything for ya! How am I going to get passed the guards?"<br><br>"Go to the kitchens and tell cook you need a tankards of ale for the guards to celebrate their hard work! If you wink at cook she will understand and just do it! Take the ale to the guards, they will NEVER turn back ale from the King's kitchen! When they are busy drinking..slip this note to Krandel." Taisie placed a small piece of paper in her hand. It said:<br><br>'Krandel, I am so sorry that I did not believe you! I will get you out,please trust me!'<br><br>Alicia nodded and did as the Princess bid. Everything went according to plan. When Alicia left the dungeon she went directly to the Captain of the Guard. <br><br>"Sir Thane"Alicia curtsied. "Her Ladyship, the Princess, requires your presence, immediately!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>13-07-2010, 07:03:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Krandel had been thrown for a loop. Taisie had been so confident about how her father, the King, would react to his declaration that he had allowed himself to believe that it would be easy to find out the truth from him, and together that they would find the one responsible for those horrible actions and punish them severely.<br><br>However, that was apparently not going to be case. He hung his head in a resigned fashion, allowing the castle guards to carry him where they wished. He would gain nothing by answering this with violence. It was not lost on him, however, that the King's daughter whom he rescued earlier would not be joining him in the dank dungeon that he would undoubtedly find himself.<br><br>Thoughts and plans swirled in his mind as he was brought down the stone stairs to be faced with a large wooden door with a tiny hole cut in the top center with bars across it, to allow air to circulate a tiny bit. Not that it helped any as the dank aroma of mildew and mud filled the air.<br><br>The guards were none to gentle about how they treated him, throwing Krandel onto the cell floor with his hands remaining tied together in a manner befit a prisoner and a thief. Both of which he had been falsely accused. As he stumbled back onto his feet, he peered towards the open door where the man that was previously concealed by the King was watching with an amused expression on his face.<br><br>"What's so funny?" coughed Krandel, "I seem to have missed the punchline."<br><br>The shadow chuckled in an eerie and sinister tone that led Krandel to believe that he had found the man - or maybe it was better to be described as a creature - responsible for all the evil things done to Krandel's home.<br><br>"You will find out soon enough....Krandel Shieldhart," spoke the unknown man in the dark robe with an evil twinkle in his eye and a smirk that sent shivers down Krandel's spine.<br><br>Suddenly the door closed and he was alone in the dark. Alone he sat trying in vain to clear his head and to center himself in the dark, cold cell.<br><br>Later that night, or was it the next day, Krandel wasn't quite sure how long he had been done there but he had realized that he allowed himself to fall into an uneasy rest. That was taken from him however as he heard the guards outside enjoying the company of a woman whose voice he was unfamiliar with.<br><br>The next thing he knew, a small piece of parchment fluttered down to the floor by the door. The parchment had come through the bars above and he scurried over to see what it might contain. As he read the note, a smile came over him and he allowed himself to relax a bit more. Taisie had not betrayed him, and was trying to help him still. That fact kept his spirits up and he settled down into a much more comfortable sleep knowing that someone was helping him.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>22-07-2010, 23:55:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Thane and Taisie had grown up together. They had played the same games! He had pulled her pigtails and she had tripped him! They were forever trying to see who could best the other..that was..until Taisie turned 12 and so did Thane. When they turned 12 things changed. Gone forever was their childish world where they were both equal. Thane&nbsp; was taken to be a squire to prepare him for the long training needed to become a Knight. <br><br>Before he left, he stole a kiss from Taisie for in truth, he had always loved her although his boyhood heart did not know that. He would do anything for her just to see her laugh and smile for when she did, he thought she brought the sunshine with her and it radiated wherever she was. She bid him come to her now and even if the King himself forbade it, he would do it. <br><br>Thane&nbsp; walked to the Princess' chambers surprised to find her under guard. The Guards standing watch immediately stepped to the side when their Captain was near. He opend her door..<br><br>"Taisie?" He stepped in quietly not knowing if she was sleeping already and not wanting to disturb her.<br><br>She ran to him and threw her arms around him.<br><br>"Thane! Glad am I to see you! You are one person that I can count on, that will tell me the truth! For I am no longer sure what the truth is!"<br><br>She took his hand and pulled him to sit down. She recounted her tale: her kidnapping and then rescue&nbsp; by Krandel. She told Thane what she had seen- the awful burnt buildings of the village and the King's crest nearby.<br><br>She laid her hand on his arm..<br><br>"Thane, please find out what you can about what happened to that village. I need to know as soon as possible!"<br><br>Taisie kissed his cheek- a natural thing for her to do as she thought of him as a brother. Thane blushed and it was quite obvious HE did not think of her as a sister, but that was lost on Taisie. <br><br>Taisie went to bed that night thinking and plotting how she could free Krandel knowing that unless she was helped, it would mean she would be leaving the only home she had ever known, forever. That night her pillow was stained with the traces of tears that she had cried until exhaustion finally wrapped her in its arms and she fell into a deep sleep.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>28-07-2010, 21:06:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Krandel reflected on his life as he had plenty of time to think, thanks to the actions of the strange man that was seemingly influencing the king's thoughts and plans. While he might be mistaken about the King's intentions, it still didn't sit well with him that he was chained up and thrown into a dank, dark cell at the bottom of the dungeons beneath the immense castle while Taisie was surely in far more comfortable surroundings.<br><br>He had saved the princess from outlaws, yet he was branded as one himself without even a second thought. All because of his reputation of a rogue. It wasn't his fault that he was the lone survivor of the horror that occurred in the once beautiful village that was his home.<br><br>His thoughts drifted so as to keep himself sane, and his spirits up. Krandel was certain that Taisie understood what had happened to him was affecting him deeply, and that she would try her hardest to get him out of the situation that he found himself him. Ironic it was that he was the one in need of rescue now as opposed to their initial encounter in the forest surrounding her father‘s castle.<br><br>Closing his eyes, he attempted to relax as he rested his back against the cold stone wall. Taking the opportunity, he thought about past romances and happier times. Growing up in the surrounding forest led to a hard life, but he did have his moments of romance. Though briefly and never completely satisfying in the end they were pleasurable for the duration of their trysts.<br><br>The one that he thought off the most however was something that was stirring within him ever since he had met the princess. Willful and determined, she wasn’t one to immediately fall for his usual routine. However, as he opened himself up (something he never did with any other woman he had been around during his days as a rogue) he found himself falling for Taisie.<br><br>That thought in and of itself brought a smile to his face, knowing that she was out there beyond these walls trying her best to rescue him from the depths of despair and the mistaken actions of her father made Krandel smile despite the grimness of the situation that he found himself as he allowed himself to finally let sleep overtake him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>06-08-2010, 01:00:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The morning found Taisie awake early and going through her morning ablutions. Her mind was still pondering what to do about Krandel when there was a knock at her door, it was Thane. She turned and smiled at him. She had let down her long hair and no man save her husband- when she married-&nbsp; was to witness it unbound- but this was Thane..her childhood sweetheart. She could so no wrong in HIM seeing her hair. She stood at the mirror brushing it and then braiding it as she spoke- not aware of his reaction if there was one.<br><br>"Princess" he bowed and then stood to gaze at her , transfixed by her loveliness and her beautiful long tresses. He stood there so quietly that she had to turn and look at him.<br><br>"Thane? You have something to report?"<br><br>He cleared his throat as if it was an excuse for his lack of answering..<br><br>"Yes..yes Princess..I have asked those that were about those years back when Krandel's village was attacked. It is quite strange actually- no one wants to speak about it! I could entice NO one- even on the threat of punishment and lashes to speak of it! Something is amiss here and I must look into it further!"<br><br>She sighed..so they were no closer to an answer..<br><br>"Thane" she turned to look at him her braided hair now completed with a bow at the bottom "what am I to do with Krandel? I cannot leave him in the prison to rot! He does not deserve that!" <br><br>She was beside herself with frustration. She wanted this to be resolved already and now they would have to wait longer!<br><br>"Princess!" Thane came closer to her and took her hand in his.."I swear to you I will get to the bottom of this and bring you news by the end of today!"<br><br>She threw her arms around him&nbsp; and kissed his cheek. "You have always been my hero and you continue to reign as that! Thank you!"<br><br>Her kiss held no significance to her except it was a sign of affecftion to a very dear friend..Thane was reading more into it. He left quickly to fulfill his role in her eyes lest another step in and take his place for he knew there were plenty that wanted to!<br><br>Taisie made her way to the kitchen to speak with Cook. There was an extra special serving sent to Krandel with a messag neatly rolled inside the loaf of bread.<br><br>Taisie took the tray herself to Krandel. The guards were giving her a hard time in not wanting to let her in..<br><br>"Open this gate and let me in to see the prisoner or YOU&nbsp; will be speaking with the Captain of the Guard after I complain!<br><br>The guard finally opened the door..it was dark inside and there was only a bed with a torn thin mattrerss and a blanket with many holes in it. Tiaise was horrified at the condition of the cell. She went to Krandel and put her arms around him.<br><br>"I am so very sorry for this..you deserve much better.." she whispered in his ear" I am working on finding outas much as I can about what happened. I will know something by the end of today! " She kissed his cheek and went to sit on the bed.<br><br>"I can only spend a few moments but please come and sit next to me and tell me how you are!."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>12-08-2010, 04:28:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Despite the thoughts that he had while drifting off to sleep, Krandel found that his night did not pass uneventfully. Much to his chagrin and consternation, his dreams turned towards something that he did not want to think about. While he spent a great deal of time imagining the way that Taisie's hands would feel on him, while he explored her body simultaneously, his sleep was not meant to be comforting and relaxing this night.<br><br>The pleasant emotions and sensations of enjoying Taisie's love were shattered by a shrouding of the scenery as his dreams turned into nightmares of past horrors.<br><br>Blinking, he found himself huddling behind an obstruction that kept him safe from the horrors of what was transpiring. Screams of adults and children alike were echoing throughout the village, sending tremors of despair through his younger self. His terrified gaze couldn't tear away from the horrific scene before him. Horses trampling throughout the entire village with knights upon them swinging their blades left and right making sure no one survived this massacre.<br><br>Knights were supposed to be defending them! How could something like be happening?<br><br>Through the smoke hazy left by the burning torches that sent the rooms of the houses aflame, he stared at a shadowy figure that seemed to be directing the slaughter from a safe distance, with a satisfied smirk upon his lips. While he couldn't place the name that would go with the face, he suddenly realized that this was the same person that was directing the king earlier-the unknown bearded man in a dark robe that locked him in the dungeon beneath the castle walls. The only difference being the neatly trimmed beard in this vision was darker than the salt-and-pepper visage he wore now.<br><br>Jarred awake from the terrible memory by the door, he found that he was shaking and when he opened his eyes, he was delighted and relieved to see the princess coming through the doorway before him, surrounded in a halo of light that seemed to be the harbinger of the most beautiful angel in the world.<br><br>Wrapping his arms about her, his heart filled with deep affection for the only person that could help him right now. Joining her on the bed, or at least what passed for such in such a dreary place, and began to describe the dream that he had just had in detail to the beautiful princess.<br><br>Eventually he got to the part about the man that he recognized from earlier, "He seems familiar, and not in a good way....I think he had something to do with my village burning." Holding her hand, he looked into her eyes, searching for hope and finding it in her, "Find out more about this man, and you may find the truth about what happened to my village."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>29-08-2010, 16:42:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Taisie listened and nodded. "I already have someone looking into what happened..please do not despair, Krandel, we WILL get down to the bottom of it!" She hugged him and then rose quickly and walked to the gated door.<br><br>"Guard! Open this at once!" <br><br>The guard was a surly one but knew better than to cross the Princess..if the King heard of it, it would be 40 lashes for him!<br><br>Taisie ran up to her room and rang the bell..she told her girl to get the Captain of the Guard for her..Thane came at once..knocked and entered when she said "Come!". He knelt in front of her..<br><br>"Yes, your Highness.."<br><br>She went over to him and pulled him up an worriedly asked: "Thane..what have you found out?'<br><br><br>He rose and began to pace back and forth. "Most of the soldiers that would have been in your father's army at that time were either killed in battle after that or left your father's service for other places which is quite strange as a soldier usually does not leave if he is fed well and paid fairly. I did however find one soldier..retired..that remembered.." he looked up at Taisie and said quietly; "You are not going to like this!'<br><br>She sat down and said softly.."Go on.."<br><br>Thane turned away from her as he continued: "Gregory Ladley remembered the village..he remembered the village. The soldiers were told that enemy soldiers were hiding out there and that they had dressed in the clothes of the villagers so to not think twice and kill them all! " thane heard the Princess gasp..but he went on..<br><br>"Ladley went int ready to kill the enemy! He said he had killed 5 or more when he stopped for a moment and looked around: there were women and children among the dead on the ground..he got off his horse to see if the women were actually enemy soldiers but when he went to pull the bonnet off of 1 woman..it was no costume..he looked around again and realized these WERE the villagers who lived there! from their panic cries he realized they were not prepared for this..he walked through the thatched houses and saw dinner on the table- half eaten.It made him sick..he mounted his horse and rode to a darkened corner where he could remain until they were done. "<br><br>he trned to face Taisie..she was as pale as a ghost..<br><br>"Who ordered it? " She whispered..<br><br>Thane turned.."Ladley was not sure. One of the lower commanders told them to saddle up and then explained what happened and why they were on that mission."<br><br>Tiasie nodded.."Krandel said 1 of the soldiers in the Great Room yestereday..he remembered his voice..it sounded like the same person who was there in his village.."<br><br>Thane went over to Taisie..and placed his arm on hers and "Taisie..do not fret..we will find out who did this!"<br><br>"Find out soon, Thane..before Krandel is sacrificed!"<br><br>As Krandel sat in his cell picking away at the loaf of bread that was left to him..feeding the mice more than eating it himself..he found the note:<br><br>"Stay strong! " inside the bread was a very small knife..it was not much but ..it was something. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>30-08-2010, 06:41:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As he watched her leave, he knew that she would do everything in her power to get him out of his prison cell where it seemed likely that he was meant to rot for the rest of his existence. He would not give them the satisfaction of breaking. He had been in solitude before, and he wasn't going to let the dingy surroundings keep him in despair.<br><br>The door slammed shut and left him in almost total darkness, the only light coming from a small hole in the top of the wall to the right of where his bunk was situated, as well as through the bars in the top portion of the door.<br><br>In times like these, he allowed himself to think back over his life. While his recent experiences where filled with excitement, the period when he was living in his home village was actually quite peaceful. He grew up in a small family with only a father and mother, and one sibling, an older brother named Bartholomew that he had presumed lost in the blaze that took his village. Thankfully, his parents had already passed on when the tragedy hit, or they would've also met their fate during those dark days.<br><br>Growing up, his life was filled with games on the greens and morning work in the fields with his father. It was a wonderful, and lovely time. It was in the fields that he met his first love, Kaylee. With her dark hair pulled back in a pony tail, and her full figure, she was always the one that he found himself wanting to be around when he went through the rough teenage years. Later on they ended up courting and falling in love and getting married.<br><br>However, she died in childbirth along with her unborn child and that double tragedy was one of the reasons that Krandel had taken up walking through the woods with a close family friend during the initial horrors of that night and led to him surviving when all else was put into ruin.<br><br>Since then, he had made it his mission in life to cause as much problem for the King and to help out those who had no other champion to keep them safe and without fear. Thus his life as a rogue which had unfortunately led him to this dungeon...though it had also led him to a close relationship with the King's daughter and for that he was extremely grateful.<br><br>So he waited for her to rescue him, unused to being in this position, but calmly he waited out the lonely hours wishing for nothing more than his freedom and the ability to see Taisie one more time.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>03-09-2010, 15:02:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Thane tirelessly tried to find out more information about what happened in Krandel's village, to no avail. He wanted to post a reward for more information but KNEW that was not allowed: only the King could decree such a thing and he wasn't quite sure of the depth of the King's involvment.<br><br>He was at a standstill..he could only think of 1 thing to do and so , he went to Taisie, to see what she thought.<br><br>He went to her Lady in Waiting and asked if he could speak with the Princess. She was out riding and he was told to return at 5 pm. He kept himself busy and then entered the castle and mounted the steps to her chambers, knocking quietly on the door. She opened it, still in her riding outfit and let him in, walking into her room and taking a chair near a small table. There was a pot of tea and small sandwhiches on the tray.<br><br>"Thane..I am going to have a cup of tea, would you like one?" He nodded. She poured, handed him his cup and spoke..looking directly at him.<br><br>"Have you found out anything more?"<br><br>He shook his head sadly and explained about the posting&nbsp; that he would be unable to do without the King's permission. He looked at her:<br><br>"Taisie..there is only 1 thing to do as far as I can see, LAdley is willing to come to the castle and bear witness to what he saw. You would need to request an audience with the King, request a public one and ask that Krandel be brought to listen, this way at least Krandel will know he was correct in his belief that the village was burned by soldiers." She nodded and made a sign with her hand to go on.."You take the chance, however, of the King being a part of it, being extremely angry that he has been discovered, the realm willl be outraged and desire that he step down-" here he looked at her with worry and conceern "...and...you may be in danger..I will be there t whisk you away if the King wishes to arrest ou but, you may become an outlaw.." His hand went to touch her arm, to reassure her as he saw her look of concern.."I will go with you no matter where that is!"<br><br>She got up from her chair and began to pace the room as silent tears slid down her cheeks. In her heart of hearts she was afraid it would come to this. She also knew this was the only way she would find out once and for all, if her father was involved. She bade er Lady in Waiting to pack a small suitcase for her of clothese that she could carry easily if she had need to leave. She asked Thane to find her a page's outfit so if she needed to leave in disguise, she could. He nodded and came to her later that night with the outfit- nthe rest of her things were packe.<br><br>Very late that night she slipped down to the dungeons to see Krandel. She brought mead and the guards were asleep within the half hour. Sh went to him and explained what was going to happen the next day and that he should be prepared. She slipped him a dagger hping he would be prepared for whatever might happen.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>10-09-2010, 04:30:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Krandel did not expect to see the princess so quickly. It hadn't been that long, but already he found how easily a smile returned to his face when she appeared in the doorway. Noticing that the guards were asleep, he nodded as he walked in and sat next to him on the cot that was his bed.<br><br>Listening attentively, he nodded and saw the seriousness of the situation expressed upon her face and made sure to pay close attention to the words coming out of her mouth. After she finished describing to him what was going to transpire the next day, she slipped a dagger to him and he hid his surprise at her willingness to go to such lengths to prove him and his thoughts true.<br><br>He reached out and took her in his arms, kissing her softly on the lips before letting her slip away. He adored her and wished her no harm, and would protect her if anything happened the next day in the courtyard.<br><br>In fact, he felt something for her that he hadn't felt for anyone since his wife died in childbirth. He loved, and cherished her and he knew that someday he would show her just much he loved and cherished her.<br><br>The next morning, he was greeted by the guards opening the door and instead of giving him a meal taking him up and bringing him out to the courtyard to watch the proceedings. He looked around and made eye contact with the princess and gave her a reassuring grin as he awaited to discover his fate.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>12-09-2010, 03:38:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Every Thursday at noon the King held public proceedings. Anyone who wished could request an audience- the King believed it showed the people how generous he was and how interested he was in their well being. <br><br>Taisie rose that morning and bathed herself..she set her hair in a long cascade of curls..she put on her prettiest gown but underneath she had the clothes of the page on, just in case. She looked in the mirror and hoped she was the picture of innocence.<br>She whispered quietly as she looked at herself:<br><br><em>Steel yourself , girl, nay woman, for today will either be a joyous one or it will be your undoing and end to everything that you have cherished all your life.</em><br><br>The clock tolled 12..it was time..Taise picked up her jeweled dagger and slipped it into her boot under her gown..she looked around to her room wondering if it would be her last time leaving it..she picked up her gown..and walked through the door and then out to the courtyard. The King was hearing the petition of a farmer who had lost several sheep and found them grazing on the King's land. The King said he could have them back but that the King would take half as payment for them eating HIS grass. There was a large amount of laughter..then Taisie climbed the steps to where the King sat. She knelt low in front of him:<br><br>"Your Highness."<br><br>"Why daughter..what is this? come closer!" The King whispered to her.."What is the meaning of this..can this not be settled in the confines of our home?"<br><br>"Nay your highness, it cannot."<br><br>The King tried to laugh it off and said to the crowd: "What a wayward child! What am I to do with her!"<br><br>A few people laughed..some yelled out lewd remarks and Taisie took the opporunity to turn to the crowd and in a loud voice said:<br><br>"I have come to speak in public to the King, as is my right as a citisen of this country. Would anyone deny me?"<br><br>There was a great cheer and a great throng of voices said : "NAY!"<br><br>She turned to the King:<br><br>"There is a soldier of yours who wishes to bear witness to the happenings of the village in which Krandel Shieldhart grew up and saw his entire family slaughtered before him!"<br><br>She quickly motioned to Thane to bring up the soldier..he began his tale to the King..in ahearty voice so all could hear..the crowd stood in silence as they listened to the unfolding of that horrible night. Krandel stood near the staircase so he could hear as well and Taisie looked down to smile at him to let him know she was there and knew where he was..
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>16-09-2010, 01:03:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Krandel was anxious and completely unsettled by the King's reactions to what was transpiring. It was obvious that he cared deeply for his daughter, but was ruthless to his enemies and Krandel was becoming quite concerned with the possibility that she may become one of his enemies to be ruthlessly dealt with just because of her caring nature towards Krandel's plight.<br><br>He nodded towards Taisie and flashed a half-convincing smile up towards her. He was not looking forward to what might happen and he brushed his legs against each other, in an attempt to make sure the dagger she slipped him was within easy access should an unfortunate turn of events occur.<br><br>Warily, he watched the king as soldier recounted the tale that was depressingly familiar to Krandel. He thought that he had convinced the king, until a man came out from the shadows behind the makeshift throne kept on the stage for the Kings usage during these times.<br><br>His face twisted into a scowl as he recognized the man and sliced his bonds easily with the dagger hidden from view and as soon as the King was about to make a statement, Krandel found himself leaping out and pointing the dagger at the bearded man standing beside the King. "How can you take advice from this man??!?! Your highness...he's the one responsible for everything! I was there! I remember him!"<br><br>The bearded man scoffed and smiled a chilling smile down at Krandel as he listened to his exclamation. "How can this be? This man couldn't have been there....and if he was, how could you take the word of a rogue who stole your own daughter from my men that were rescuing her?"<br><br>Before the King was able to say anything, Krandel jumped up to Taisie and pressed the dagger against her throat. He didn't really plan on doing anything to her, he cared for her to much. "If you won't listen to reason, your highness...nor your own daughter about my intentions...maybe you don't deserve to have her in your presence!"<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>26-09-2010, 02:58:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The soldier told his story, unafraid of what the King might say..Taisie was proud of him for stepping forward but before she could express her thanks and even before the King could reply, Krandel had run up to the platform brandishing the dagger she had given to him! He held it in front of the King's right hand man..and all she could think of ..<br><br><em>oh G-d Krandel! What have you done! Why couldn't you have waited just to see what my father's response would be! </em><br><br>She wanted..no...she NEEDED to know if her father had any knowledge of what happened in Krandel's village that night..for if he did..she could not stay at his side as his daughter. If he had any hand in killing innocent people..then..she would rather be an outlaw on the opposite side of the throne!<br><br>Things happened so quickly..Taisie had no time to act as Krandel drew his dagger to her throat and held her hand behind her back. She gasped in surprise..she was not afraid that he would hurt her but she WAS surprised at his audacity!<br><br>"Krandel" she whispered "what are you doing! This cannot end well!!!!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>28-09-2010, 06:24:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Holding the sharp dagger in front of the princess, he watched the king as he stumbled out of the seat where he was and immediately directed guards to surround the rogue and his hostage.<br><br>Perhaps he had been a little rash, but then he noticed that all of the soliders that were being directed by Taisie's father happened to have the exact emblem that the bearded man standing behind the King wore on their shoulders. These were NOT Taisie's father's men! Of that he was certain, and he also knew that they would not care for Taisie as much as the King's own men would have. Nor as much as what Krandel, himself would have.<br><br>The king nodded and spoke clearly and concisely towards them, "It matters not whether this man was there. The village needed to be burned as my friend Hawkins told me so long ago." He waved a hand in the direction of the white bearded man who smirked and the fire of hatred burning in Krandel began to build.<br><br>"I knew it! How could you?!?! My family trusted you! I trusted you to keep us from harm...from that very man!!!" Krandel declared, scooping the princess up onto his shoulder and scurrying past the startled city folk that were gathered around to watch the goings on. <br><br>"This was worse than I thought, Taisie... may the fates forgive me for taking you, but you are no longer safe in this place," spoke the rogue as he wound through the crowded streets trying to flee from the pursuing guards.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>02-10-2010, 15:17:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It matters not whether this man was there. The village needed to be burned as my friend Hawkins told me so long ago." <br><br>"NO!!!" screamed Taisie.."Father..you cannot mean that!!!" She fell to her knees upon the realization that her father HAD commanded the deaths of those innocents: of Krandel's parents and friends in his village..and ..then crumpled to the ground as blackness overtook her relieving of feeling the pain of betrayal by a father she loved so deeply and held in such high regard..<br><br>As Krandel ran from the stage the crowd opened up for him..half afraid and half in confusion..he ran without seeing until someone called out..<br><br>"KRANDEL!!!!"<br><br>When Krandel looked..it was Thane holding the reins of a great black stallion..one of the King's best animals.<br><br>"Hurry! Night is a good steed..he is new and young..not yet branded for the King's stable so no one will know..he is intelligent and will listen to commands..he just needs a firm hand..and..he is fast..Head to the north..There is an Inn..a day's ride..The Miller it is called..I will meet you there..wait for me for only a few hours..if i do not make it..leave and find your own way with the Princess.."<br><br>Thane put his hand on Krandel's shoulder.."I love her..protect her with your life if i cannot.."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>03-10-2010, 07:00:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Everything seemed to be a blur. Everything had changed. Taisie's father WAS apparently behind everything that had happened to him in the past and with the shock of that revelation hitting her extremely hard, he was forced to carry her through the crowd. Then he found help in the most unexpected of places. Thane, the one who had been Taisie's long time friend, was offering him a stead and he quickly accepted it, for he had no other option that he was aware of at this particular moment.<br><br>He quickly and effortlessly straddled the beast and laid the princess over between him and the horse's large neck. He took the reins and nodded to Thane, grateful for any help he could get.<br><br>"Thank you, Thane. You have nothing to fear, for I shall protect her as fiercely as I possibly can. No harm will come to her, lest I lose my own life in the process!"<br><br>His heartfelt declaration hung in the air as he quickly rode the horse out of the castle and down the road towards the North as fast as the steed would ride. It took the rest of the day and he found the Inn that Thane had mentioned to him before he left the city and drew up to the side under an awning that hid the princess and the rogue from the street so he could settle the princess down onto the ground, hopeful that she could recover quickly, for they had a long journey ahead of them in both figurative and literal senses.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>04-11-2010, 21:10:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Taisie woke her hand going to her head..she had such a terrible headache and everything was so foggy in her head..<br><br>"Where am I?" She asked in a dazed voice.<br><br>Krandel held her and answered her explaining what had happened..before he was even half way through she pulled at his shirt trying to sit up.<br><br>"Oh Krandel..I am so very sorry for what my father has done to you..I bear the blood of your family on my hands..* she held her hands in front of her eyes..and then those same hands grabbed the front of his shirt..pulling strongly..<br><br>"I beg you..take me as your servant..I will serve you and your household for the rest of my lliving days and even THAT is not compensation enough for what you have endured and suffered because of my father.."<br><br>She buried her face in his shirt now crying copious tears...muffling..<br><br>"I am so sorry..so sorry...However shall I make this up to you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>07-11-2010, 03:27:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Krandel held her body tightly as her frame was shaking and trembling from all the emotions that she was going through. Her entire world was being turned upside down as her father's collaboration with Hawkins had been revealed to them both.<br><br>"You are not your father, Taisie. There is nothing you need to do, other than remain with me as my strength for the inevitable conflict to come," he whispered as his hand caressed her back softly.<br><br>"All I desire is your companionship during this tumultuous time for us both," he calmly and soothingly attempted his best to comfort her.<br><br>This life was something that he had grown used to through his lifes trials, however it was something that was completely new to Taisie and he was going to do everything to make sure that she felt at home in this new environment she would find herself in.<br><br>"We are outlaws now, Taisie...both of us." He cupped her face in his hands and brought his lips down to hers in a soft kiss, "However, you are not alone."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>07-11-2010, 19:13:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His words soothed her battered heart...not fulling grasping the meaning of what her life would be like now. Gone was the plentiful food and soft bed and awaiting domicle that sheltered her from all manner of seasons. Gone were the ever present guards that protected her from friend and foe. Gone was her plentiful wardrobe and abundant coin that bought her whatever her heart desired even though she rarely desired anything. <br><br>Taisie could not fathom the depth&nbsp; changes her fleeing the castle would wreak on her existence. But Krandel knew and understood. <br><br>Taisie could only nod..weak from the knowledge of what evil and sinister thing her father had been a part of ..and how by being his daughter she was guilty by association.<br><br>What could she do to compensate Kradel? She could not bring his family back and now she could not even give him coin to live a life of luxury..<br><br>His lips sought and found hers..they were soft and warm and tender..she responded only wanting to forget the devastating loss of her father as someone she looked up to. She melted into his kiss forgetting all else.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>08-11-2010, 00:45:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The weather seemed to sense the tragic mood of what was transpiring underneath the awning and the clouds had darkened, now resulting in a light rain beginning to hit the roof. Krandel sighed as he broke the kiss, reluctantly and looked into her eyes. He found in them a searching for answers, and while he was not a man born into a leadership position, his fate had decided that he would be the leader of outlaws. Someone, he hoped, that could give her the answers she needed.<br><br>Gathering her into his arms, he carried her into the inn and placed her upon an empty bed. The inn was mostly empty and it was easy for them to find a room. He kissed her once more and told her to rest as he went out and paid of the room and the discretion of the innkeeper.<br><br>He would wait only until the night for Thane. If he showed up, all the better so they could plan things out. Otherwise it was on to an uncertain future. Which was most likely the case no matter if he showed or not. Getting some food from the kitchens, he carried a dish of hot soup along with some crackers and some wheat bread and brought them into the bedroom so that Taisie wouldn't have to move before she restored her strength.<br><br>"We cannot stay here long. Your father's men...and Hawkin's men will be searching for us." He explained to her as they ate, "I will wait until nightfall for Thane, who graciously assisted in our escape. However, if he is not here by the moon's rise, we shall make our way out to the Borderlands."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>13-11-2010, 09:25:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her small hands wrapped around his neck as he lifted her and carried her in from the rain. He gained a room from the Innkeeper and laid her on the bed and bid her rest. Taisie curled up on the bed and let her fingers hold the comforter as if it would shield her from the pain and hurt that life had thrown at her. <br><br>Krandel returned soon enough with a bowl of hot soup and fresh bread. She realized she was more hungry than she thought and set about finished the hot food quickly. When she was done, she listened to his thoughts...her hand stretching out to hold his.<br><br>"I hope Thane will meet us, but if he does not, I trust you with my life Krandel..our destiny seems to be entwined..I am most grateful to you that you would allow me to come along with you. "<br><br>She bent her head to hide her tears for she had no one in the world to call 'family' now..All in the matter of a few moments she had become an orphan even thought her father still lived. This very fact was like a dagger in her heart that remained there turning its point deeper and deeper with each waking moment. <br><br>"I am tired Krandel..let me rest until nightfall..then wake me please. I will be stronger then..I promise..."<br><br>She closed her eyes and quickly fell into a fitful sleep but one at least that was not wrought with nightmares.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>27-11-2010, 06:30:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He clenched her hand tightly in his and smiled. Krandel knew that he was falling deeply in love with this charming princess, who he once deemed far to uppity and conceited but now he knew differently.<br><br>He kissed her on the lips softly, "Rest well, my dear."<br><br>With that he left her alone to rest up for the long days of travel that he knew must be forthcoming. Moving into the main area of the inn, he went across and sat in a table next to the doorway so he could easily see anyone that would come in.<br><br>A serving maid came about and placed a mug of ale before him and smiled at him, "Compliments of the owner, who reminds you that you have a friend."<br><br>Krandel looked up in slight puzzlement at the serving maid who quickly departed before he had a chance to inquire about her statement. Could word of what happened already come about to this place? If so, they may not have as much time as he thought.<br><br>He drank the beverage slowly and waited for the night to fall, hoping that Thane would appear before long and they could get under way. This village was beginning to worry him.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>29-11-2010, 02:19:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There was a knock on the door..Taisie sat up wondering if it was Krandel..it was dark in the room as he had put out the candle..<br><br>"Krandel?? Krand"...all of a sudden a leather glove covered her mouth and strong arms held her ...<br><br>"No it's not Krandel m'Lady..but you won't be needin the likes o'him! The King will pay VERY handsomely to have ya back..that's fur sure!"<br><br>The man's breath smelled like a skunk's as he coarsely whispered in her ear. She kicked with her feet even though he was not in range..he was smart and had held her around her torso with her back to his stomach so she could do not real damage. She wiggled her head free enough that she could scream:<br><br>"KRANDLE!! HELP!!!!!"<br><br>The brute hit her on the head and she was knocked unconscious..unable to be of any further aid.. He picked her up in his arms and carried her down the back stairs out to his waiting horse and his men.It was the same man that had ordered the slaying of Krandel's village..he was the King's henchman after all and did his bidding. He got up on his black stallion ready to flee the place. His men would make quick work of Krandel and if they killed him in the process oh well...the King wanted his carcass but he did not specify..Alive!!
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>01-12-2010, 05:35:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Krandel was warily drinking his ale when he heard Taisie's scream. Sharing a look of alarm with the serving maid he rushed to the room. It was locked! Who ever would have locked the room if they weren't trying to take Taisie by force? Backing up, he charged and slammed his boot forcefully against the door, breaking it loose only in time to see the brute carrying the princess, who appeared to be unconscious, on his back.<br><br>"Halt, you knave!" He screamed as he ran after the strange man.<br><br>He was a bit late as the brute---who he immediately recognized as none other than the bane of his existence-- Hawkins!<br><br>Helpless to help her from being carried off as he was suddenly surrounded by vicious thugs, he screamed out in frustration. "Halt, you bastard!!!!"<br><br>Slashing and dashing around the men that were no challenge to the expert rogue fighter, Krandel easily dispatched them and followed the trail down the stairs and outside the back of the inn. There another surprise met him. This time, one much more favorable for him. The serving maid from before rode up to him on a white mare, her dress gone and in it's a place a rogue attire, much like his own.<br><br>"Come, Krandel... We don't have much time, but I know where they are going and I know a way to cut them off!"<br><br>Not looking a gift horse in the mouth, the rogue easily jumped up and joined the woman as they spirited off in chase of the princess and her captor.<br>&nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>06-12-2010, 01:56:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hawkins rode hard and fast. He was no stranger to the wood and now that the Princess was unconscious it was much easier to ride free of any impediment! He would have liked to have stopped somewhere and tasted of her sweet wares! Although..that might not be too smart as she would tell the King and the King would SURE have Hawkins head for defiling the beauty and ..Hawkins liked his head too much! <br><br>Hawkins heard the gallopping of horses coming at him..not from behind..but from the front..He stopped and lept down from his horse carefully laying the Princess over the saddle. He pulled his steed into the trees..away from the trail..and waited..Gallopping towards him was Thane and a company of the King's soldiers. Hawkins stepped out in front of them with his hand waving in the air.<br><br>"HALT! I have the Princess..there is no need to continue.."<br><br>Thane stopped and so did his men. He had to make a decision..did he have his guards surround Hawkins and subdue him thus exposing him and his men as rogue Knights never able to return to the Kingdom again..or...did he play along that they still served the King? And where was Krandel?? Thane dismounted and went to the Princess..and picked her up gently..<br><br>"Glad I am that you found her..why does she have this nasty bruise on her forehead? Was she in a skirmish??" Thane looked at Hawkins accusingly..<br><br>"Don't look at me like that! I saved her life! "<br><br>Thane gently cradled her in his arms..she was after all..the most important thing to him..he continued to look down at her face and examine her as he asked Hawkins nonchalantly..<br><br>"And where is Krandel?"<br><br>"Well..if my men have anything to do with it..he is dead!!!"<br><br>Thane felt badly for the poor man..he was a valiant soldier and had been dealt an awful hand by the King..and now this..he knew the Princess would grieve deeply for his loss..<br><br>Thane handed the Princess to one of his men as he mounted his steed..then took her in his arms and sat her in front of him letting her back lean on his broad chest..with the reins firmly in his hands he turned his horse..<br><br>"Come men..let us make haste to the castle..the Princess needs the ministrations of the Doctor!" Thane turned to Hawkins and as much as it pained him to say it:<br><br>"The King will reward you handsomely!" and with that..he snapped the reins and was off in a gallop to the castle. <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>WyldRanger</strong> on <strong>09-12-2010, 21:21:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Holding on to the waist of his newly made friends waist, Krandel rode across the darkening forest landscape. Marveling at her expert handling of the horse beneath them, he began to wonder just who she was and why he didn't know her. He thought he had met every rogue this side of the mystic mountains, but apparently not as this woman was a complete mystery to him.<br><br>The trees a blur in the darkening light as evening approached during their hurried chase, he had to lean in close to her to ask as his curiosity was peaked.<br><br>"Who are you?" he asked the female rogue.<br><br>"A friend, Krandel Shieldhart," she smiled, "Someone who has seen the tragedies beset by Hawkins elsewhere and is as determined as you are to help him become a distant memory."<br><br>She slowed the horse as they approached the main road that cut through the forest, and lowered her voice, "My name is Gracekin Shipsail, but you may call me Grace, I once was a princess for a kingdom far to the southeast of here," she explained as the wind whipped ebony strands of hair across her striking features. Brushing the stray hair out of her face, she indicated the sword sheathed and hanging upon her belt. "That all changed when Hawkins and his cronies came through our peaceful kingdom and wrecked havoc, destroying everything in their wake and leaving me on a path of revenge."<br><br>"I heard about your plight from a rogue friend of yours named Kale and was fortunate to run into you on this very night."<br><br>He nodded as he remembered Kale from their days leading sorties against the King. It seemed that help was always to be found in the oddest of places.<br><br>He found himself smiling, "Always glad to have some help, Grace."<br><br>She nodded and drew their stead up to a nearby tree where they dismounted. "Hawkins will have to come through here to get back to the castle with the princess. So I think a good plan would entail waiting in ambush for him to appear."<br><br>Krandel nodded in agreement before climbing the tree to get a good vantage point to see the evil man whenever he approached.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Rogue and the Princess [Xana &amp; Aeval]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>11-12-2010, 05:19:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Thane and his men beat a path to the castle..Thane wanted to distance himself from Hawkins as quickly as possible for he did not trust the man. After about 20 minutes of riding Taisie moaned..and her hands clutched Thane's ever so lightly..<br><br>"Shhh....Taisie..it is Thane...do not be afraid..you are in my arms and Hawkins is far away..rest your eyes..I am taking you to the castle.."<br><br>Taisie began to moan louder and move wildly in front of him...Thane held onto her tightly and kept whispering in her ear to calm her..<br><br>"You are hurt, Taisie..I cannot run off with you in the wood..this is the best solution for know.please..do not fight me..relax..let sleep take you..I will not leave your side..I promise you this..I swear to you!"<br><br>In her comotose state...Taisie could hear Thane but could not answer..his voice was calming and soft and she was ever so tired..her hands relaxed on his and her head fell back onto his shoulder as she let sleep and dreams wrap her in a protective cocoon. Thane rode for another hour..galloping as quickly as possible..His horses hooves clamored over the cobblestone of the streets of the village and he did not stop but continued straight over the drawbridge gallopping into the main hall. His men dismoutned and one stood by Thane's horse to redeive the Princess in his arms until Thane dismounted and could take her himself. He walked briskly up the steps and into the Great Hall raising his voic<br><br>"GET THE PHYSICIAN FOR THE PRINCESS - SHE IS HURT!! NOW!!!!!!"<br><br>A few of the maids came running...<br><br>"Make clear my path to the Princess chambers..have the Physician waiting..call the King and tell him!"<br><br>These were orders that Thane barked out in a commanding voice ..he was not and would not accept any disobedience. He climbed the second floor to the Princess room, as he knew it well..a maid was already there holding the door open as Thane walked up to the bed and laid the Princess down gently. <br><br>"Get me a bowl of warm water and a towel!"<br><br>The maid scurried to do his bidding and brought back a bowl and towel in haste. Thane dipped the towel into the water and then gently touched the Princess face. She moaned and grimaced when he did. His heart ached that she was hurt and even in her sleeping state could still feel the pain. At that moment the King rushed in..<br><br>"What has happened here!" He bellowed..Thane did not get up or kneel..he only kept on with his ministrations to the Princess.<br><br>Hawkins resced your daughter but I do not know at what price. Your daughter is injured and I would venture to say it was not Krandel who injuried her!" Thane looked at the King accusingly.<br><br>The King came to the bedside and ran his hand on the bruised forehead of his daughter..she cried out in her sleep and he quickly removed his hand.<br><br>"The Doctor will be here in a moment..see to it that she gets the best treatment.." His voice dropped off at the end for he was beginning to understand the high price he was paying in keeping Hawkins to do his bidding. Hawkins did things HIS way no matter who was injured or killed..The King left the room as the Physician walked in to begin his ministrations . Thane did not move from the room and saw everything the Physician did.<br><br>_______<br>Hawkins horse was not as fast as Thane's and besides..he wanted to make sure that Krandel was silenced once and for all..Hawkins dismounted and waited for his men to come and talk to him. He did not have long to wait..<br><br>"Where is Krandel??" He asked in a commanding and demandng voice.<br><br>"We do not know." <br><br>His man at arms bent his head as he admited this and Hawkins let his arm swing back and the swing forward as he hit the man in his jaw..<br><br>"WHEN I SEND YOU TO KILL SOMEONE I EXPECT IT TO BE DONE!! " He roared as his other soldiers looked on, some in terror and some in anger.<br>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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