ForevaXena's FanFic . . .

A Few Turns More . . .

by Ellianora

Disclaimer: The characters here are my own and as such the property of moi. Though the two main characters do resemble a pair we all know and love there are some differences.

Violence: Yes violence is here and it can get graphic, close to PG-13 I would say, so be warned.

Sex: A little more then hugging and kissing but not much, between two women who love and care for each other very much.

Feedback: Always. I love to hear from folks who read my stories. Either good or bad. I would like to take the time here to thank all those who wrote me and told me how much they enjoyed 'Turn of the Wheel' and were hoping for a sequel. Here it is:)

Chapter 6

Yazoun carefully stashed the provisions he had managed to scrounge the last few days. After his escape through the window when the black bitch and her breed burst in he had stayed hidden in the shadows like a giant sewer rat. It would be only a matter of time before Censor got word of his betrayal let alone that he failed in the assignment. The Prince would probably send that woman Mantis after him. The former Archeon Captain shuddered involuntarily at the thought of falling into the hands of that demented killer.

     He had managed to contact his family begging for a few triones to help pay for his way out of town. His family was also at the end of their patience with him. They had informed Yazoun in no uncertain terms that from this point on he was on his own. There would be no more aid from that quarter.

     Not that it mattered to him, all he needed to do was slink out of town on a merchant caravan late at night headed for Midtor. There, with the funds he had acquired from his family he would be able to live quite comfortably till things settled down. It was a perfect plan, he thought smugly to himself and he would no longer be forced to suffer the abuse of the Prince Regent Censor.

     “Getting ready for a trip?” A familiar voice above him remarked mockingly. Yazoun afforded himself a quick peek up to the rafters. Perched among the braces was a slender young half-elf with deep violet eyes. She was garbed in a leather tunic of the same hue as her soulful eyes. The tightly braided ponytail of honey blond hair draped casually over her left shoulder.  The smile upon her thin lips was like what a cat might have observing a particularly plump little mouse. It had been an elementary task for the talented rogue to discover who had been present in the room that night. Ellie had found the undertaking of tracking the foolish former Captain even easier as he spread triones throughout the underground desperately seeking to purchase an escape.

     “E-Ellianora B-Bladedancer,” Yazoun stammered his eyes wide with the fear.

     “The one and only,” Ellie replied with a nod of her head in acknowledgement. “Don’t tell me you were going to leave and not even say goodbye.”

     Grabbing up his satchel, Yazoun scrambled for the door in hopes of escaping. A small dagger whizzed by his ear imbedding itself in the wall directly in his path. “That was a warning,” Ellie informed him, leaping nimbly down to the floor drawing her small thin sword. “The next one will be aimed for your legs.”

     “What do you want breed?” Yazoun challenged mustering what little courage he could find.

     “From you not much,” Ellie replied with a shrug. “I mean you only locked Venom up and ran from the field of battle leaving Zaphrina at the mercy of the orcs.”

     “Venom was a criminal,” Yazoun declared indignantly, “and your friend is an elf, breed. Why waste good Archeon lives for the sake of an elf?”

     “Especially your own,” Ellie added eyeing the trembling man, “but I wasn’t finished. Let’s see you also helped Censor try to kill us and we must not forget this most recent plot to assassinate Venom and myself.” Yazoun was about to reply when the rogue placed the tip of her sword under his chin. “Don’t interrupt,” she warned, “I thought you Archeon nobles had more manners. Now to top it all off you have the nerve to insult me.” She gave Yazoun a look of pity. “You really aren’t very bright are you?”

     “So why don’t you kill me?” Yazoun asked with a sneer. “Or did your girlfriend instruct you otherwise?”

     “Actually yes,” Ellie admitted. “We would like to know what little scheme Censor as hatched this time.”

     “You’ll get nothing from me breed.” Yazoun declared defiantly. Regardless of how far he had sunk he was not going to be dictated to by some mongrel.

     Before Yazoun could react, Ellie unsheathed her dagger slashing him across his cheek. The former Captain screamed in pain, placing his hand on the wound.

     “Now this is how it is going to work,” Ellie instructed him, “every time you give an answer that is wrong or that I don’t like I’ll add another slash.”

     “You can’t,” Yazoun stammered in disbelief.

     “I think I can,” Ellie countered punctuating the comment by slicing his other cheek. “Venom isn’t here to stop me, nor is Gasqule,” Ellie replied in a menacing tone, conveying all the warning of a rattlesnake prior to its strike. “It’s just you and me now. Either you talk or we’ll see how many cuts it takes for a man to bleed to death.”

     “You’ll kill me anyway,” Yazoun objected.

     “There is that possibility,” Ellie agreed gashing his left leg, causing the man to drop to the floor. “Then again maybe not. However if you don’t talk you will die very, very slowly as opposed to quickly.”

     “He is after Azantre the Fire Ruby, Yazoun cried. This revelation caused Ellie to pause slightly. If Yazoun had been in more control of his senses he would have noticed the slight break and taken the opportunity to escape.

     The power of the Mage Kings was legendary. Some almost believed them to be mythical in this age. Apparently, they were real and if Censor managed to obtain one of them Ellie shuddered considering the consequences.

     “Even if it does exist,” Ellie replied, “the ruby was destroyed during the great Gem Wars according to stories of that time.”

     “The stories were wrong,” Yazoun answered shielding his body from anymore-possible strikes.

     “How did Censor find this out?” Ellie asked.

     “With the help of a demented she-fiend named Mantis. She led him to a score of ancient scrolls and tomes written before the rise of Archeon.” Yazoun answered. Ellie had heard of this woman Mantis. According to rumor she was once a respected member of one the Tymorian families. The woman had been exiled from her clan being to twisted and bloodthirsty for even the likes of them.

     “So where is the Fire Ruby?”

      “ Hidden in a secret Chamber of the ruined Castle in the ancient City of Jaroon.”

     “Does anyone else know of this?” Ellie inquired attempting to ferret out any vital information, though this sudden revelation had more then a little concerned about the safety of Venom and the others. “ Is he using this Fang to lay a trap for them?”

     “ Hardly,” Yazoun snickered, “ she knew nothing of the ruby till I told her about it. Since she didn’t share that piece of information with all of you I assume she hopes to obtain it for her clan.”

     “Venom will kill her before she allows that.” Ellie stated emphatically.

     “ Perhaps,” Yazoun chuckled, “ either way it will end badly for your tall companion.”

     “Why do you say that?” Ellie demanded.

     “Wouldn’t you like to know?” Yazoun cackled.  The rogue positioned her dagger to slice the helpless man. “ It was part of Censor’s revenge,” he spat out quickly.

     “Continue.” Ellie said pulling back the dagger slightly.

     “Even if you and Venom had killed Fang Censor would have had his revenge,” he explained. “It was really a very brilliant diabolical scheme.”

     “You’re talking gibberish,” Ellie grumbled.

     “Of course you would think so you don’t know the whole truth.” Yazoun gloated. Venom and Fang are sisters, separated at birth. That was the beauty of his plan even if Fang would have been slain in her attempt Venom would live with knowledge she killed her only known living relative.”

     “You’re lying,” Ellie, said somewhat flustered though she knew in her heart it was the truth. It was the only thing that made sense, considering Venom’s odd feeling towards the assassin.

     “You know I am not,” Yazoun replied. “So if Venom does kill Fang, Censor will have his revenge on the sea-bitch.” Ellianora had to admit it was a clever scheme. If Fang succeeded Venom would be eliminated and if the reverse occurred the guilt of slaying her own sister would be too much for the former pirate to bear.

     “Now you know everything,” Yazoun grimaced looking up at the rogue attempting to mask the fear in his eyes. “ I told you all I know that must be worth something.”

     “You’re right,” Ellie nodded a cold cruel smile dancing upon her lips. “I am going to do the most horrible thing imaginable to you captain I am going to let you live.”

     “Why do you say that?” Yazoun queried curiously. “ Do you presume my conscious will plague me?”

     “Hardly,” Ellie laughed evilly wiping her dagger off on his clothing and sheathing it. “ I doubt you even have one. No, I mean Censor will discover you betrayed him or will know so very soon. I also know that the army will probably consider you a traitor and after that debacle in Midtor the thief guild isn’t too fond of you either. Add to that you tried to betray a Tymorian assassin and I’ll make sure that facts get out, have no doubt about that.”

     She lifted his bearded chin staring into the bulging brown eyes. “ You will spend what remains of your miserable life in abject fear, jumping at every shadow and noise. Realizing at any moment your life could end violently, which it most likely will.”

     Ellianora sauntered towards door leaving the former captain still sprawled out on the floor frozen in fear as he contemplated the true horror of her words. Before exiting Ellie turned back to the Yazoun giving him a mock curtsey. “Have a most pleasant life my noble captain,” giggling slightly as she closed the door behind her.

     Ellianora rushed through the wide streets of the city after leaving the trembling man behind.  Her agile mind raced as she fully contemplated the diabolical simplicity of the Prince Regent’s plot.  She had to admit the man was easily the most cunning foe she had ever encountered. Though that had been apparent when he managed to turn one of her schemes against her. If it had not been for Venom she would not have survived that error in judgement. Her pulse hastened as she thought of her dear companion. Either way it seemed Venom would lose unless Ellie could reach her in time.

     Reaching the Inn the rouge sprinted up the stairs where the injured Terrell rested comfortably. Upon seeing her enter the room the young priest immediately determined something was amiss.

     “I may presume you managed to locate the nefarious individual responsible?” Terrell asked.

     “I did,” Ellie replied quickly, “and there is much more to this then what we originally thought. I am afraid I am going to need to go after them. I’ll instruct the innkeeper on your care.”

     “For you to delegate any of your tasks in such a fashion the situation must be grave indeed.” Terrell said.

     “Indeed,” Ellie answered with a slight smile despite the gravity of the circumstances.”

     “Then might I suggest, you unburden yourself and enlighten me as to what further details have come to light that has sparked such an urgency in your demeanor. If I am to be left at the mercy of others I would like to know the reason.”

     Ellie nodded in agreement. The young priest was correct as usual, if she were to be rushing off it would be best if he knew the details of the matter. Taking a deep breath the rogue started to relate the predicament as quickly as she could. “So you see,” she concluded, “time is of the essence. I need to get to the others and quickly.”

     “I quite agree,” Terrell stated after a slight pause. “We must hasten after them with all possible alacrity.”

     “You are staying here,” Ellie, stated firmly, “you are in no condition to travel right now.”

     “The healers which you have managed to procure for me have done an exemplary job,” Terrell argued. If the others are in peril then it would hardly seem proper for me to recline here in the Inn.”

      “Look I don’t mean to be rude,” Ellie said with and exasperated sigh, “but you are still injured and I don’t need anyone slowing me down.”

     “Then I will give you my personal guarantee that I will not be a burden,” Terrell answered practically rising from the bed. “Besides, considering the vile cunning our antagonist has displayed, it would be much safer for us to be together then apart.” Ellianora paused trying to think of another reason for Terrell to stay behind. “I might point out that the longer we debate the merits of our arguments the less time is available for us traverse the Undead Plains and reach our companions. I shudder to imagine the impact upon our tall dark friend should she slay Fang and discover her identity after the fact.”

     “All right,” Elle said, “you win pack your things while I get my stuff from the other room and take care of the innkeeper.” Terrell began to slowly pack his bag as Ellie rushed out of the room towards her own.

     So absorbed was she in her own thoughts that she failed to notice the figure in the shadows waiting to strike as she sorted through the tiny closet pulling out her items.  The nimble rogue noticed the slightest movement in the shadows just in time to dodge out of the way.

     The woman who was garbed in dark green leathers gave a feral howl as she missed her intended victim. “Not bad for a thief,” the woman complimented her turning to face Ellie. ”First I get you and then the puny priest. I’ll have fun with him.”

     “Just who the dragperg are you?” Ellie demanded more then a little annoyed. She had no time for these games.

     “Who me?” the woman replied with an insane titter, “nobody important just someone who is going to kill you.  But if you must know my name is Mantis.”

     Ellie recognized the name of the woman, the assassin and now one of Censor’s henchmen. She gauged the woman as they eyed each other. She was fast and skilled, still Ellie believed she could defeat her though it would take time, which she could ill afford right now.

     “Look,” I don’t have time for this,” Ellie said truthfully,  “why don’t you come back later and I’ll kill you then, I promise.”

     The smirk upon the half-elf’s face caused Mantis to spring forward her face twisted in rage. With lightening speed Ellie ducked and rolled beneath her. Before the assassin could react the rogue gave Mantis a backward kick propelling her in the closet.

     Mantis was turning around even as Ellie slammed the door shut smacking the assassin in the face causing her to howl in anger. In a final act Ellie secured the door by bracing a chair against it even as Mantis pounded upon it screaming obscenities at the half-elf.

     “Told you I didn’t have time to play,” Ellie cajoled as she exited the room leaving the enraged assassin trapped in the closet. “Now be a good little homicidal maniac and be quiet.” Ellie made a note to inform the innkeeper of the interloper and have the authorities present when they released her. She imagined they would welcome the chance to place this person in custody.

     “Was there a problem?” Terrell asked joining her in the hall as they headed for the stairs.

     “Nothing worth mentioning,” Ellie replied with a slight grin. “I just need to let the innkeeper know we have a rabid animal trapped upstairs.

     Ellie quickly described the encounter while the pair hurried down the stairs. Reaching the desk, she explained the circumstances to the innkeeper. The aged man ran a finger through is gray hair.  He couldn’t honestly say he was sorry to see them go. The events of the last few weeks had been more then enough excitement for him.

     “I will tell the authorities,” after you leave he promised. “I wish you luck finding your friend.”

     “So you two are friends of the woman called Venom,” a cultured voice behind them remarked. Ellie turned around slowly catching sight of a very dapper looking fellow with sandy brown hair and pencil thin moustache. The gent was extremely handsome by any standards with deep blue eyes. His armor was a combination of chain and leather dyed a bright deep blue. Noticing her stare he gave he salute with his wine glass and a self assured smile. If he was a bounty hunter, he was the oddest one she had ever seen. “If we are or not,” Ellie challenged. ”What does it matter to you?”

     “I might also mention,” Terrell, added, “it is quite discourteous to listen in on the conversation of others.”

     “I meant no offense,” He replied rising gracefully from the chair. “ Nor do I wish to cause you any ill. In fact, I would like very much to help if I may.”

     “And why do you want to do that?” Ellie demanded.

     “Your friend Venom helped a relative of mine quite recently,” he offered approaching the two. Ellie noticed the large curved blade strapped to his side. She also noted he had tied a peace knot over it. The universal sign that the person had no desire for open conflict. “He was foolishly venturing out into the plains despite my warnings, fortunately, Venom managed to save him from a precarious predicament.”

     “I see Terrell, said thoughtfully, “and might we have the pleasure of knowing to whom we are conversing with.”

     “I apologize,” he continued, “I forget my fame may not have reached you. I am Solonie at your humble service. I might also add from what I can gather your tale would make a splendid ballad.”

     “You’re a minstrel,” Ellie deduced.

     “You are partially correct dear lady,” Solonie complimented her. “I am actually a bard.  The admission caused Ellie and Terrell pause. A bard was the rare sort who was able to reach just the right pitch and tone to affect the manna with his voice, creating their own unique kind of magik.

     “You’re offer is appreciated,” Ellie remarked, “ but I am sure you can understand why we are hesitant to take anyone along with us.”

     “To be sure,” Solonie concurred, “ I know some of your tale. I might add though the denizens of the plains can be quite dangerous. I do have a few songs in my repertoire that might keep them at bay. Particularly useful at night.”

     “I fear the gentleman does make a most convincing argument.” Terrell stated.

     “Yes he does,” Ellie replied sighing lightly. He was a handsome one to be sure. If she was not currently involved, he might be worth a closer look. Either way she disliked letting more into their circle. Too many people were already involved as far as she was concerned. “ You can come.” Ellie agreed.

     “Thank you,” Solonie commented graciously kissing her hand. “ You are as wise as you are beautiful.”

     “Whatever,” Ellie remarked pulling back her hand. “ Let’s get going we’ve wasted enough time already.”

****

      Mantis ceased pounding on the heavy oaken door. She finally realized much to her dislike there was nothing to do but wait.

     The former Tymorian assassin sat cross-legged in the small dark space awaiting the arrival of those most likely sent to take her into custody. The closet reminded her of the hole she used to be tossed into, as a punishment for some trivial mistake by her so-called masters.

     They would place her in that deep, dark, dank stone well for days, believing she would contemplate her poor judgement. Mantis had sat there seething, plotting revenge on those fools.

     Her face twisted in rage as she remembered the early times, she actually cried and pleaded to be set free. After that, she refused to give her torturers that pleasure, choosing to remain silent.

     Then there was Fang. Darling Fang, always Fang, that outsider was continually being shown as an example of what a Tymorian Assassin should be, especially to the malcontent Mantis.

     Despite their continual harping on the code of ethics, a few of the clan leaders realized there was a place for one of her temperament. She would carry out missions, others would find abhorrent. The execution of the children had been such a mission. She probably should have simply slain them outright, but they squealed so delightfully with terror, she couldn’t resist. That was how Fang, assigned to her for a more mundane task had found her out.

     Of course, those who had assigned her couldn’t openly admit to such a hypocritical assignment. However, using their influence they had managed to simply have her ostracized from the clan rather then tortured and slain in return for her silence in the matter. It saved their positions and her life, a good bargain she reasoned. Even now the clan used her for missions others such as that mewling Fang were too squeamish to perform

     Mantis thoughts were interrupted as she heard the sound of the chair being removed, allowing access to the closet.

     She could charge out of the closet, but then she had no idea how many were out there or how armed they were. Mantis may have been insane, but she was not stupid. She hung her head in defeat, attempting to look as helpless as possible.

     The door opened, Mantis glanced up to see the local sheriff of the town along with two others towering over her. Mantis shrunk away from them, as if cowering in fear. She noted the two flanking the sheriff relaxed their guard with their drawn swords, perfect.

     The sheriff offered his hand to the frightened woman to help her out of the closet. Mantis reached out hesitantly allowing the man to escort her from the prison. She looked up with fear filled eyes into the face of the compassionate soldier. He was the chivalrous sort, and hated to see any female in distress, again perfect for Mantis, finding it difficult to restrain from giggling at his stupidity.

     The woman touched her wrist as if it had been injured somehow. The man loosened his grip, as Mantis pressed a lever concealed in her sleeve. A set sharp metallic claws, sprang from her gloved hand, ripping into the sheriffs exposed wrist. Before he could cry out, she imbedded the claws into his throat. Blood sprayed the woman now howling with laughter as she tore them free. Mantis tossed the sheriff into the man on the right. The sudden savagery had caught the guards by surprise. They fumbled about, attempting to bring their weapons to bear.

     Spinning about Mantis racked the claws across the face of the other, reducing his face to raw shredded meat. Mantis drew her blade stabbing the other in the back as he attempted to escape.

     She kneeled down staring into the dying eyes of sheriff as blood bubbled from his mouth. Mantis lowered a finger to the gore, tasting it with relish.

     Suddenly, the door flew open as the old caretaker starred in horror at the carnage. Upon seeing the blood spattered female he quickly exited. Mantis considered going after him, then thought better of it. This Inn was filled with would-be heroes who would soon rise to his defense. She had no desire to face so many. Releasing the claw on her other hand, she climbed up the wall, scrambling up to the roof like a lizard.

     She considered whether she should follow the impudent thief in the Undead Plains. She had never even entered the dreaded area during her initiation, choosing to lie in wait and ambush some fool and take his item as proof she entered region.

     No, she would return to Archeon and bury herself in the squalor of the crime ridden poverty district called the hole. If Censor survived then she could emerge and garner whatever prize she could from him. He was after all, a man and easily swayed. If he died, then she could stay hidden until things calmed down somewhat. That, she reasoned was best option available to her as she reached the roof disappearing into the night.  

Chapter 7

Back to FanFic Index