Completed Gods Help the Outcast (past thread)

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

Rhoe could smell the flames already if not the smoke. Or was that just her imagination?

Well, soon, it wouldn't be. And then she'd have no imagination whatsoever, for she would cease to exist.

Tied to the stake for a crime she did not commit. Actually, she wasn't even sure it was a crime. Didn't storms cause fires, too? She hadn't been anywhere near the village. Actually,. she'd been gathering herbs for a poultice to cure a wounded dog, near her hut at the edge of the woods, minding her own business.

And the next day, her world had fallen apart. It was the whole reason she'd moved to the woods, really, to avoid being accused of things like this when her powers decided to assert themselves. And the trial- well, what was actually a farce- was not designed to prove her innocence, and never had been.

They wanted her dead, and always had. Not that she could have ever helped what her powers were. Some spells you learned, yes, but some magic you were born with. Rhoe had been the offspring of a fire nymph and a water nymph.

Perhaps Rhoe could have used a spell right now to manipulate the fire long eough to get it away from her when it started, but she was much too terrified it would reach her feet before she could. And in any case, while it might make her execution all the faster if someone killed her before burning her, fast wasn't what people were after, No, the citizens wanted entertainment, and plenty of it. The fact that she'd helped many of their animals didn't seem to matter now.

How had everything gone so wrong?

"Not even going to put up a fight, are you?" asked the man who read off the list of her crimes, including reckless use of fire, house and property damage, a few deaths, and leaving the scene of the crime. At this last, Rhoe rolled her eyes to the heavens; she hadn't even been there!

And now they were going to burn her. Death by fire...for supposedly starting a fire.

The irony chilled her, and she shivered. At least she would die warm.

"Don't bother calling for help. No one will be able to do anything- no one will dare risk it, anyway- with so many people who want this to happen. They'll likely be afraid of offending the gods if those who died aren't avenged. "

Rhoe knew the man was right, so she didn't bother calling for help.

She did, however, scream.

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

(OOC: The following thread takes place 31 years before the year 369 Chronicles. The picture below is Gavin at age 19.)

"Thank you Ser Gavin for taking care of the Redcaps."

The Elf handed the Knight a coin pouch which Gavin rejected. "No need," he said. "Your village was in danger by the Redcaps. It was the right thing to help you."

Astonished by his words, the Elf bowed. "I see why the people of Oban reveres you Ser Knight," he said. "A man who does things from the goodness of his heart. Not many whether they're humans or elves are altruistic. But please take this gem. It will guide if you lose your way." Gavin was given a glowing stone that was warm almost like the tea Ser Thomas was fond of.

"I'm honored," Gavin said getting on his Horse an Elven compass? That could be useful. "Farewell."

As Ser Gavin Halbert rode through the forest, he felt a little awkward in his steel plated armor, it still didn't fit right. He was a 19 year old knight that served as a squire since he was seven years old; Even with all that training he still had the body of a peasant: Scrawny and underfed. Still life had been kind to Gavin lately, he was elevated to legendary status thanks to his exploits at the battle of the Sandy Steps. During the fierce battle that ensued against Arthur and his band of thugs who often captured and maimed Oban merchants, Gavin rode his horse cutting down many soldiers and lopped off the head of the ex-Knight.

It was from that day on, that Gavin went from being a lowly peasant from some mudhole near the Allrian Straits to a famed Knight who received favor by the nobility. It felt surreal a shock really, for years squiring for Ser Thomas the Terrific other Knights would sneer at Gavin calling him "a peasant brat." It didn't really bother Gavin that much, he was called worse by the lords who would pass through Buckwater. Even though there were some rotten apples in the Kingdom of Daldaria that didn't mean it wasn't worth protecting.

Through Thomas' dying breath he made a teary faced Gavin swear an oath to always tell the truth, be brave, protect the weak, honor women and above all else serve your country loyally. A Knight's oath something that they must obey at all times. Many people of the capital saw Gavin as the Lion of Oban which was pretty strange since Gavin didn't know what a Lion was some big Cat. A Dog would've suited better but then again that nickname was from his fellow soldiers and even bandits who fought at the Sandy Steps.

Though men were in awe of Gavin and wanted to emulate him and girls the kind who ignored and laughed Gavin when he was a lowly squire would lift their skirts or show off their breasts when he passed by. In many ways this was like the stories Gavin read as a child and now he was basking in its glory. He should elated, Gavin's story was the rags to riches story coming to life. In fact it: The Lion of Oban was a song sang by the Bards about his breaking the class system that was subtly enforced in Oban.

He was mostly happy but he could never seemed to shake off the memory of the Sandy Steps. Gavin lost many of his close friends and many good men died in that battle including of course Ser Thomas. Many people called him brave but in truth Gavin was weak and a coward. When Arthur knocked him of his Horse after he and Thomas surrounded him he just laid there..... hurt and afraid. He watched as Arthur and Thomas engaged in a melee until Thomas was slain.

All Gavin could do was cry out, ever since that day Gavin was still haunted by it. Just then a scream interrupted his thoughts. It sounded like a woman's voice! Frowning Gavin encouraged his Horse to go faster following the direction of the scream. A Knight's work is never done! There's always people in need that was what Ser Thomas had taught him. Gavin arrived at the scene seeing a woman tied to a stake and was ready to be burned.

He frowned a bit when women were sentenced to be burned that usually that they are a witch..... and the men burning her were Oban soldiers. "Wait!" Gavin said. "What is going on here soldiers?!"

Why were these men burning the woman in Elven territory? Usually they would take her to Oban for questioning. Why the haste? If she was a witch then she deserves a fair trial instead of the execution that Gavin admitted that his people enjoyed a little too much. "Is this woman a witch? If so why are you putting her to the stake in the Elven land?! She should be taken to Oban for questioning!"

Gavin got off his Horse to face the men. "Is her crime so heinous that you lot have to burn here and now?!" he said his heart thumping as though someone punching it. He didn't want to step on the toes of the people he swore to protect but if things are going to be done, it's going to be the right way. If the woman's is innocent then she is free. If she's guilty..... well may the God's grant her a swift death.

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

OOC: it's not letting me make edits on the actual thread even though I don't know why. But Rhoe is now the child of 2 parents who were both half-human half-elven. This way I can keep her age and chronologically by the age of her body, she'd still be closer to a teen.)


"Witch, born to two half-elven parents, what's the difference?" The man who read the crimes scoffed. "All we know is that this woman- this Kallirrhoe Aedus... has powers- apparently kicked out of her birth home for a few too many...mistakes. Can't have a person starting fires or floods, however unintentionally. That I could believe, that she would still have been learning her powers at that point. She's a young thing still. Chronologically speaking, your age, maybe a year younger, Ser Gavin. But whether or not those other mistakes were intentional... a few nights ago we had a storm. It killed a few people the lightning started a fire. Lots of property damage in that area, too. And then, well, leaving the scene of a crime...is a crime, even for a human, so..."


The man shrugged. "She claims not to have been there. She's a healer 'round these parts, particularly of animals, so they say. But a few too many mistakes in one's early youth, plus this... what can you do?"

"You can make sure the trial isn't rigged!" Rhoe spat, angry despite her fear.

One of the soldiers guarding her sneered. "I'd recommend saving your screaming for when you'll have a right, which has been delayed long enough, out of respect for a brave knight who rid our village of a problem. Unlike you."

He bowed in Gavin's direction, starting to light the straw under her, which he made sure was far enough away from her that she wouldn't be able to manipulate the fire. Though he'd still better not peel his eyes away from her for one second...just in case she tried when it was closer.

There was one problem, though... several of the ones supposed to be supervising this...event were in the process of finding a nearby place to relieve themselves. which he might have to do soon, too.

Rhoe tensed, but she didn't bother screaming anymore, though a few in the crowd obviously wanted her to do so. Putting up a fight was useless, but it was still fun to watch the condemned try it.

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

The more these men talked the more shocked and confused Gavin became. "This Kallirrhoe's crimes," the young man said regarding the quadroon. "Have you've found any evidence regarding Miss Aedus' crimes?" Gavin asked gently placing his hand on the hilt of his sword.

"Well not really," the guard said yawning. "But a quick search showed that there was definitely some magic used and she happened to be in the area who was a capable magic user."

A look of bewilderment was etched on Gavin's face, he remembered that same backward logic that people of Buckwater used when they accused a woman of being a witch despite the fact that there was no evidence. There was a procedure that every accused woman with magic had to go through, if the law was circumvented in favor of swift justice it will be utter chaos.

Gavin slapped the match out from the guards hand causing him to cry. "Are you mad bloody fool?" he said. "You mean to tell me that you have no evidence linking to her to the supposed crime?"

"Well she was very angry when we questioned her!" the guard said rubbing his hand. "We tried to be nice!"

"If by nice," Gavin said. "You mean stalking and yelling obscenities' at her, do you realize what would happen if the Elves caught to us burning witches at the stake in their own territory?! It'll be a massive public relation night mare!"

"They would understand," the guard said shrugging. "They will bloody not!" Gavin protested. "Majority of Elves practice magic! Now cut her down."

The guard hesitated. "I don't want the witch to curse me....." he said.

Gavin sighed as climbed up the kindle and unsheathed his knife untying her. "Are you all right?" he asked holding her.

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

And just like that she was free. or so it seemed. To the people watching, it must have been almost no time at all. but to Rhoe, the seconds were endless. Each one might as well have been an hour. and meanwhile the fire was moving closer and closer....

"I don't know," she admitted, barely able to speak from the shock. "Mostly just...dizzy." There was definitely that sensation of her head spinning, not just mentally, but physically as well, and her skin was almost deathly pale from fear. She hadn't wanted to fall apart so easily, but to be rescued wasn't something she'd expected. Was helping a few dozen animals enough to deserve redemption from a frightening and painful death?

He was holding her so protectively, like she would break. And perhaps she would- perhaps the stress of the past few minutes and all that had gone through her mind since the trial last night would break her. And she didn't know what to do about that. Physician, heal thyself was what the humans would call her problem. But perhaps no one could heal an illness caused by fear on their own.

"But I guess we'll have to worry about that later. Please get me out of here before they possibly think I did something..."

For now, the crowd was in too much shock to complain that their entertainment had been interrupted. They were much too interested in what, if anything, the knight would bring to the situation. This was an entertainment all its own, and perhaps just as amusing as watching a play.

Rhoe's state of mute shock was quickly replaced by a terror that nearly caused her to babble unintelligibly when all at once the guards who had been busy relieving themselves returned to the execution site. There were four of them, and they were probably just as terrified as Rhoe, at first, if for totally different reasons. If the condemned wasn't executed, they could face repercussions of their own for not doing their duty.

"Hey! What are you doing, Ser Gavin! Put her back there before we lose our heads!" cried one.

"We'll answer to the city council for this!" insisted another. The two other guards broke into a run and began to gain on the knight with the lady in his arms.

Rhoe wanted to bury her face in Gsvin's chest and stay there forever, out of terror, but she was also worried that perhaps she didn't know enough about this knight to trust him, if some of the townsfolk knew him by name- especially the ones in charge of her execution. But there was no time to ask questions for now if she wanted to live, so she only looked at him pleadingly and said, "Run!"

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

Gavin was surprised that the witch was so..... clingy okay sure that her life was in danger but the way Kallirroe buried her face onto Gavin's chest was similar to how his mother would snuggle against his father when they had alone time. A dark blush crept on Gavin's cheek this was the first time that a woman was this close to him. The rest looked at Gavin with disdain and called him "average looking." Considering Gavin is a hero now those same women raised their skirts and spread their legs for him but none of them got close like Kallirroe was.

"Now wait," the young man tried to take control of the situation it was all happening so fast. The men wanted to burn the woman despite the lack of evidence and the fact that they were doing this in Elven territory. Gavin racked his brains seeing the other men placed their hands on the hilt of their swords. Some of them already drew their swords.

"The City Council would look at all of you as madmen!" Gavin pleaded. "Stand down and think!" Ser Thomas would've tried to diffuse a situation. "Words before swords," he would say. But he was more eloquent in his speech while Gavin sounded like a desperate boy trying to play Knight. In a way he was trying hard to live up to the Lion of Oban nickname but he was more like a Cub.

The men were irate that Gavin spoiled the fun for them. One by one they each unsheathed their swords, sweat began form in Gavin's brow his heart began to beat faster. "Remember your oath," he muttered to himself. "Remember your oath."

It was then he swept Kallirroe off her feet placing her into a bridal carry. He wanted to reach his Horse but the guards blocked off the path. There was only one way out. "Sod it!" Gavin leapt off the pyre and ran into the forest. He could hear one of the men saying: "GET THEM!" but it didn't matter now. Gavin his choice even it was probably a foolish one. Never trust a witches' word was something his father taught him as a child but the Knight's oath also said to honor women. Gods, why couldn't they separate the two?

"Bloody hell now I'm in deep trouble!" Gavin said out loud. "I'm supposed to be a great Knight but I'm just as skilled as a drunk man dancing in a ball!"

Kallirroe better be telling the truth, this choice was made by what Gavin's heart said. "If everything else fails," Ser Thomas had taught him. "Trust your heart let it be your guiding key."

He really hoped this woman was a good witch.

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

"This isn't me... this isn't me..." Rhoe snuggled deeper into Gavin's chest, but her voice was a little firmer now. "I am usually much more...poised. Only...when you fear for your life, and using your magic would just make people more eager to be rid of you...what then? It wouldn't have stopped anything, only delayed it."

There was a certain wisdom in that, she knew. People seemed to be more angry when someone was different than they were. "Perhaps they are jealous. Perhaps they would have liked it if those people died, but couldn't bring themselves to... But I wasn't even there...I was gathering herbs to help someone's wounded dog. By all the gods, I swear it."

Rhoe tried to keep her voice quiet so the men wouldn't be able to follow them as easily. But it was useless.

"Doesn't matter!" A masculine voice called. "We have sworn an oath that all who use their magic for evil must die!" The fact that Kallirrhoe always used her powers for good seemed lost on these men. The crowd followed as far as they dared, watching as the knight disappeared into the forest. Now some of them didn't quite know whom to cheer for! What a show!

Kallirrhoe wondered why Ser Gavin didn't run for his horse; surely he could have barrelled through four men! But it was too late now, and the soldiers were gaining on them, and they now all had their hands on the hilts of their swords, drawing them in preparation for battle.

Rhoe was still physically dizzy and clung to Gavin, but the thought that she might live with him on her side was beginning to dawn on her at last. And with that, a little of the shock eased, though she still felt uneasy. But at least she could think now.

"How close are we to the lake, Ser Gavin? If their swords are wet, they will rust."

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

"The Kingdom Daldaria doesn't execute people at the stake for especially without a trial!" Oh how Gavin wished he had Ser Thomas' way of words. His ability to diffuse situations through talking gave him the nickname: The Negotiator. "You should know that!" Gavin spat back as he found a tree to hide he and Kallirhoe.

The Witch was mumbling something about fearing for her life or something. Gavin took a glance at Kallirhoe who then claimed that she was only collecting herbs and helping a villager's dog. "If your words are true witch," Gavin whispered staring into her eyes. "Then I will protect with my life."

But it also meant that he would have to fight his countrymen. Even if they were in the wrong, they were still his brothers in arms. Gavin swore an oath to serve his country but when the citizens are acting unruly sometimes it was necessary to raise his sword against them. "The lake?!" Gavin said incredulously staring at his steel armor. "You honestly haven't held a sword in your life do you witch? Unless you plan on drowning them?!"

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

Rhoe was unsure if he really would ever trust her, the way he was calling her a witch. She knew that, but his tone sounded derogatory, and she sighed. "Trial... it's such a strange word. For you see, there are actual trials, and there are what look like trials set up by people who really want to kill you, but know that the law says there must be a trial. This was the latter. The people know I use my powers for good, but they have also seen the fires or floods in my childhood years that I started unintentionally when I was still learning how to manage them...so they also still fear me, somehow. First impressions are everything, yes? They shouldn't always be, but they are. Though, I must say my first impression of you is very favorable." She smiled, sweetly, but perhaps also a little seductively. It had been a long time since she'd had a wild night of passion, and while Rhoe was aware of her feminine wiles, she was also picky about whom she chose to share them with.

Rhoe then laughed. "You've got me pegged all right- never used a sword in all my born days. It's not ladylike, or so my mother used to say. Funny the things we care about in our young years..." Perhaps Rhoe now knew too many spells, or not enough, to be loved, but she had thought that men liked ladylike women, too. Maybe people would always fear her, but on the other hand, if you cast a spell on someone to make them love you, was that real? If anything, she wanted love to be real, and that was why Rhoe had never learned some of the darker- or at least more manipulative- kinds of magic. As a pretty woman, perhaps she had enough wiles on her own to make a man fall in love with her body, if not her heart.

"But drowning them would be a stretch. I just want to get them wet- perhaps the more proper term would be a tidal wave. And beyond that, well, we'd be in better shape if I felt I could physically walk at the moment, but I've no doubt you could defend yourself, even if all I do is lie on the grass and watch. The soldiers there seemed to respect you. Perhaps it's the only reason I am alive." She gave him a sad but thankful smile.

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

Gavin's eyes darted to Kallirrhoe who flashed a sweet, seductive smile at him. He could feel his already beating heart working overtime to the point where he actually could feel his legs wobbling as though Gavin was walking on stilts. Was she flirting with him? Despite the fame that came after the battle of the Sandy Steps Gavin often kept to himself. He still hasn't recovered from the events that transpired there namely his mentor's death. He could feel his cheeks heating up and while Gavin didn't have a mirror nearby he knows his face is as red as a freshly grown beet.

"It's my vow witch," Gavin said finding it hard hard breathe. The woman was wearing provocative clothing which exposed part of her breasts and most of skin. Kallirhoe was slim, pale skinned and gorgeous. Her lips were supple and painted black leaving almost tempted to lean in and.....

The young man banged the back of his head against the oak tree hoping the pain would snap him back to reality. "The way you're dressed," he said. "It looks like you've grown up in a forest most of your life. And yes where I'm from, it is not lady like to wield a sword."

Gavin could hear the hollering of the guards trying to seek them out. Why were they so eager to burn Kallirhoe in the Falwood? It made no sense then again according to Ser Thomas hatred can override a calm mind. "As a Knight," Gavin said looking at her. "I made swore an oath to protect all women even witches like you Kallirrhoe. I will protect you with my life because you need my help."

Though dying to protect a witch would rather low as a Knight. Especially a person like him who was dubbed: The Lion of Oban.

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

She laughed softly. "Right again, I did. And if you are wondering why they were so eager to pin some crime on me...well, let's just say that I did use to live in the village, but then...early teenagehood. My powers came in, and...and I was still learning..." She didn't cry, but her eyes burned and she shut them. "I'll tell you more later if you want to know. Right now we have to go."

She saw the look in his eyes, like he wanted to kiss her, and she would have enjoyed it, as well as been somehow comforted by someone's gentle touches. Sometimes Rhoe liked her lovemaking quick, but not now, not when she'd been so frightened.

Right as she said 'Right now we have to go,' she heard a voice behind them.

"Too late. You won't be going anywhere but back to the stake. And you, Ser Gavin Halbert! Shall I report to your fellow knights that you died defending a witch?" The oldest soldier threatened.

Rhoe gasped. Ser Gavin was young, but not so young his name was unknown....not by a long shot. Even she had heard of the Battle of the Sandy Steps, through friends. And if the Lion of Oban died defending a witch, his legacy would probably be tarnished. Just how much he was likely giving up for her- at least temporarily to bring her to safety- dawned on her at that moment, and she knew that for his sake, she would die. Funny, it hurt a little less now to think she would die before her time, because she would do it protecting someone else from disgrace. It didn't make the fear any less, but somehow, maybe having a purpose in her death made her feel vindicated.

"I would not want to bring shame on your legacy, Ser Gavin. Thank you for your valiant efforts." While she still did not feel capable of walking, she raised her head, aching to kiss him just once for so many reasons, including that it might be her last pleasurable touch by another being.

She dare not passionately claim his lips, but as bravely as she dared with others watching, she kissed his cheek, cuddling her head against his in a way that suggested she would like to do more. It was not everything he deserved, nor everything she longed for, but somehow, it felt like a small victory. Her last brave stand. She would go without a fight, but not without somehow having the last laugh, kissing her would-be rescuer bravely in front of those who wanted her dead rather than going meekly and without hiding- from anyone- what she really wanted.

One of the other guards sneered. "Can you really not walk- from fear- or what were you really doing before we found you again? Provocative girl!"

The third guard reached to take her from Gavin's arms, while the fourth began to tie her securely with a length of rope. She might not have walked away regardless, but she wouldn't be able to squirm now, either.

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

It all happened so fast, the guards easily found Gavin and Kallirhoe behind the Oak Tree, their swords pointed not at Gavin but rather Kallirhoe. The young Knight mentally cursed himself, he was a never good at hiding often being the first to get caught in hide and seek as a child. Gavin wanted to talk, wanted to convince the men to stand down like Ser Thomas would do. However the words seemed to trapped in his throat, struggling to reach his mouth. Gavin felt his legs shaking uncontrollably looking as if he's holding his bladder. He was less of a Knight and more of a cowardly squire.

The men threatened Gavin with ruining his reputation but assured him that if he handed over the witch, all would be forgiven. The young man still couldn't say anything, some of the soldiers even chuckled at his quivering legs. "Are you sure he's the Lion of Oban?" one of the men asked. "The way his legs are shaking, his prick might fall off."

"He's more like a kitty cat than a Lion." the other man piped in.

They were right, Gavin wasn't fit to be a Knight two years, two long years and Gavin spent the time wallowing in sadness. Unable to remove the battle of the Sandy Steps from his head, there were times where Gavin cried for no reason falling to his knees and weeping. If anything Gavin didn't become a Lion he became a blubbering wreck.

A soldier reached out for Kallirhoe who the whispered that she didn't want to ruin his reputation. Gavin just stood there, stunned. For a witch, she had more integrity than all these men combined. She thought of him above herself when she knew she was about to be murdered. The young man was about to say something but Kallirhoe leaned towards his cheek.

The whole world stopped.

Gavin felt Kallirhoe's lips pressed against his cheek it was and moist and filled with a passion. It coursed through his entire body sending as though Kallirhoe was placing a part of herself into him. Was this the witches' trick a possession of some sort? No it couldn't be, the woman's genuine smile before being pulled away by one of the men. Gavin snapped out of it and immediately pulled Kallirhoe to him. "By the blood of my mentor: Ser Thomas!" Gavin yelled removing Kallirhoe's binds and putting her behind him. "I swore an oath to protect the innocent and to protect all women even the witches who done nothing wrong!"

He unsheathed his steel sword it gleamed against the sun as he narrowed his eyes towards the men. "You will not lay a finger on Kallirhoe," he said. "She is an innocent woman so leave now or pay the price!"

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

The guard who'd been holding Rhoe sneered. "If you believe she's innocent, that's your business, but we don't, and there are four of us and one of you. You think you're the Lion of Oban, do you Ser Gavin Halbert? Well, then, prove it!"

"He will prove it, and then you're the ones who will be dead!" Rhoe snapped. If she had any strength left, she'd...well, she wasn't sure what...but she would do something! Rhoe cursed her stupid fear. Irrespective of the fact that this had...somehow... been only her first near brush with death, she shouldn't have been afraid, she had magic!

But she was afraid, and could only lie tense in the grass. She was not, however, mute, and could not resist a cheer when she saw Gavin withdraw his sword. Gods only knew how she would react both physically and mentally later. Blood from wounds was one thing, blood from death quite another. But somehow, weak as she was, seeing someone fighting for her rather than against her raised her spirits if nothing else. But four men were still four men, and she had a feeling he would appreciate every one of those cheers.

And though the men were experienced soldiers, somehow some spark of magic- or caring? Or more?- must have hopefully transferred between Gavin and Kallirrhoe through their kiss. She hoped it would give him strength to spare- because wherever they went, she would still need him to carry her to get anywhere.

But where would he take her? Even if these four men died, it was possible that others would still be looking for her, including those who had presided at her 'trial.'

At least she somehow had faith that they would go somewhere to get away. And unlike magic, true faith didn't always have a time limit.

These men would not win. And if the blood on the grass was any sign, they were well on their way to losing.

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

So this is Gavin's first major act as a Knight, to draw his sword against his own brethren. Even if they were in the wrong, it never felt good to turn against your people especially if it was defending a witch. Kallirhoe's cheering gave Gavin the confidence he was lacking. He controlled his breath feet slowly sinking in to the dirt readying himself. "So you have chosen death," Gavin said with sadness in his voice only Kallirhoe's cheer could lift his spirits up.

The first man charged at Gavin holding out his Iron Longsword, Gavin slid sideways performing a half spin and then slicing through the man's neck. The soldier kept running his eyes widened with shock before his head rolled clean of his shoulders and the rest of his body crumpled to the ground. The three remaining men attacked at Gavin at once attacking from all angles. The young knight batted away their strikes with ease, Kallirhoe's kiss put him at ease as though she activated a button which unlocked his bravery.

Gavin didn't need reach into a calm state of mind, he was immersed in it. Kallirhoe had reconnected the missing link between Gavin and the confidence he needed to take these men harming the witch. Gavin felt like he stepped into a waterfall in the middle of the Falwood. Gavin opened himself in that sparkling stream as it flowed into him guiding his blade to the gaps of the men's armor without the slightest interference from his consciousness.

This is the mindset that a Knight needed to be: Perfectly at ease, content to let the battle start and end. Just as Gavin will let himself live for an innocent witch like Kallirhoe or die. This is how a Knight should fight..... but sometimes Gavin's base instincts would take over. In just a few seconds the three men were cut down each of their necks having a deep slash. The young man took a deep breath and unsheathed his sword before picking Kallirhoe into a bridal carry.

"I can't believed I killed my own people just for a witch," he said staring into her eyes. "But I believe that you are innocent. I will protect you no matter what the cost. That is my vow to you Kallirrhoe Aedus."

It did cost him a piece of Gavin but then again many pieces were lost during the Battle of the Sandy Steps.

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

"And I promise you in return a piece of my soul..." Perhaps that was being a bit dramatic. She didn't even know how she could do that except to remember him forever, but it didn't seem like enough. "If you are in trouble such as I was...I will come to find you. Perhaps I'll have learned to wield a sword by then," she half-joked. Her eyes were laughing, but as best she could, she meant every word. "Not that I know any spells for that...to really give you a piece of my soul...but somehow, I would if I could. And speaking of which..." for lovemaking sometimes felt as if you put your being inside another person, if it was the right person, or so she had heard. "If I had the strength, you'd be doing more than holding me. But for now..." she smiled dreamily. "For now... let's find a place... that isn't here. They could still be looking for me. Those who wanted me dead are not limited to those four men, and I'd have to pass by where I almost died to get home, and in any case I'm in no state to be alone. I couldn't possibly take care of myself without being able to walk." At the very thought of having to pass by the execution site, a shiver went through her that she could not control. "What's happening to me? I've fallen apart, and all the magic in the world won't hold me together even temporarily. it seems."

And yet, somehow, he had put her back together. Perhaps she wasn't as alive as she seemed. Maybe there had been an execution after all...an execution of her former self. How was it that the first person she could remember fighting for her had turned her into an entirely different being? It was one thing to have urges, to be seductive, to be aware of her beauty. This...whatever... between her and Gavin felt like it was shaping up to be something more. Had she ever promised anyone else a piece of her soul before?

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

A vow in return for a vow? Admittedly Gavin was a bit suspicious when she said she would put a piece of her soul. It didn't help that Kallirhoe claimed that she didn't know any soul transfer spells which just made Gavin all the more paranoid. "I hope that you hold that promise Lady Aedus," Gavin chuckled nervously. He didn't expect her to fulfill her promise In fact he expected her to forget the next day or even in a few hours. She was clearly feeling a rush of fear considering that she was close to being burned to the stake.

Gavin didn't understand what Kallirhoe meant that he'd be doing nothing more than holding her. "Is this one of your tricks witch?" Gavin asked. "Are you saying you want to control me?" Her smile did little to put the young Knight at ease. "Just breathe Kallirhoe," Gavin advised holding her close. "You nearly died and your body is just going through shock. It's natural to feel like your helpless."

Just like Gavin and the Battle of The Sand Steps but the difference is that a Knight has to have strength something Gavin didn't have prior to the kiss. Kallirhoe was right in that there were others, he heard of a group of soldiers receiving training by the Falwood Elves. It would look bad if 4 of them died especially to someone like Gavin. The young knight then stared at Kallirhoe, she bought back his confidence it was through her kiss and cheer that he was able overcome the men.

It was strange was she controlling his every move or perhaps the stories were true in that a lady's favor is the best weapon a Knight could have? Either way it felt exhilarating but at same time frightening considering the first woman who kissed The Lion Oban is a Witch. Gavin arrived at where he left his Horse and placed Kallirhoe on his lap. "There's a tavern a few miles north," he said. "I'll take you to there so we can rest for the night."

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

"Control you? No. If I had the strength, reward you is more like it." She was unsure if he would quite know what she was referring to, but when he placed her on his lap, she raised her head a little to kiss him again. "I've had so many people who feared me, and even so, I'm...usually...good at getting myself out of dangerous situations. There are certain advantages to being young and beautiful, and some men seem to enjoy it more than others. I'm sure the women must be falling at your feet now that you are a knight," she observed. "But that isn't...quite...the same thing as what I feel now. It's been a long time since someone seems to have wholeheartedly believed I am good." Perhaps he was still a little hesitant, but he did seem to be trying to believe it. She gulped away a huge lump in her throat, pressing her cheek to his chest. She was comforted by his tight hold on her, and the fact that he seemed to have sensed her fear, but she shivered again when he mentioned going to the tavern.

"Prepare for...I don't even know what. If it's not far enough away, news might have traveled there, and...I don't know what could happen, but none of the things I am imagining are good. We could be being watched on our way there, too."

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

Ah so that's what Kallirhoe meant a reward perhaps to give Gavin coin. It happened a lot around Dalriada especially to respected knights like Gavin found out. Many villagers would hand them coin because usually out of respect for the Knights. Under normal circumstances, the Knight should refuse because of their virtues by many would happily take the free coin. Gavin did his best to refuse coin ever since his ascension to Knighthood but due to the constant maintenance of his sword and armor, the temptation was there.

"I don't need to receive coin for an reward," Gavin smiled. "It's not necessary Kallirhoe you were in danger and I rescued you."

Gavin blushed again when Kallirhoe kissed him on the cheek, was the witch casting a spell through her kisses. She did it again and Gavin felt like a sandcastle ready to collapse, he heard that witches had powerful spells through their kisses and it horrified him that he might be a victim to it. "They are," Gavin said. "But they aren't as bold like you the way you are kissing me."

The young knight began to ride holding Kallirhoe tight. "A Knight is always prepared," he said. "Remember my vow to you witch and I'll make sure that you aren't harmed."

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

"No. This kind of reward isn't a coin. Do you really not know how beautiful your eyes are, or how safe I feel with you holding me like this- not as though someone is taking advantage of my weakness, but protected? What I'm saying is. if I had the energy, I'd show you what kisses such as ours lead to...lovemaking, if you will."
Because as best as she dared, even a little, she loved him. What would come of this bond was not to be known yet, and perhaps admiration for someone who rescued you didn't always lead to romance...on either of your parts. Regardless, he did seem to know now to what she referred. but he said no one had been bold about it like her.

"Perhaps they've had no reason to be bold about it. Did you ever bed any of the other women you'd rescued?" He might find this a rather blunt question, but she was curious. "This is not me using my body to avoid a bad situation for once, but because I want to. Or I would." If fear would let her unfreeze her body, she'd be doing so much more than kissing him.

When they arrived at the tavern, Kallirrhoe fought the urge to wish she had an invisibility spell. She felt as though everyone were staring at her, and even the tavern keeper looked ready to whisper something, but stopped when he saw her with Gavin. Perhaps the man thought Gavin was her guard and she was being offered a last meal. Kallirrhoe would have been too nervous to eat even if she had been offered a meal, so she didn't ask, but did ask for some ale to perhaps settle her stomach a little.

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

Ser Gavin was a man trying to become a knight, ever since the Battle of the Sandy Steps Gavin just didn't feel like he earned Knighthood despite Ser Thomas' insistence. "You are ready," he said choking on his own blood. "You have been ready for years Gavin Halbert, you will become a great Knight of Oban." Gavin was only 17 and a tear stricken mess when Ser Thomas struggled to Knight him. The young man was still unsure of himself even as people gave him praise and adulation.

It was then that Gavin nearly dropped Kalirrhoe when she mentioned THAT kind of reward. "Oh bloody hell," he whispered. "You did mean that didn't you?" Gavin always saw himself as plain, he was the son of a Fisherman father and a sewer mother in the village of Buckwater located near the Allrian straits. He was pretty much had a peasant's look and people reminded him of that especially women.

Gavin was leaned faced, with brown hair, and dark blue eyes as plain as plain could be but when he became a hero it seemed that looks didn't matter after all. The people gaped at Gavin carrying Kallirhoe with some women saying it was romantic while the Innkeep offered Gavin a free room for tonight in which he accepted though he was in a daze. "No," Gavin gulped. "Why would I do such a thing like sleep with a woman like that. It's dishonorable and besides I never done-"

Part of Gavin was curious about lovemaking and Kallirhoe did seem eager. "Just why me," he said holding her tight carrying her up the stairs. "I just did my duty."

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

"Not many knights would, though..." Kallirrhoe's voice was soft and cracked a little with emotion. "Not with...those with powers, like me. To call us witches is perhaps a stretch, in the sense that the word 'witch' seems to have an evil connotation. Why I have the powers I do- from the elven parts of my parents- I've never known, for fire and water seem to be things used for both good and evil. But I've tried to use mine for good- say, using the heat in my hands to warm a cold animal- as well as cultivating various other healing skills. So yes, there are witches, but in the bad sense, I am not one. Those of us who are feared can want other things- love, family, and belonging. But you were willing to give me the benefit of the doubt, when some people might not have, and are therefore a knight worthy of the title. Although..." a throaty chuckle escaped, one she actually meant a little, amused by the turn of events today despite also being unendingly relieved. "Are you always that late to things, and would just anyone delay an execution for you?"

For a terrifying moment, she stiffened even further in his arms, but one of the women had said his carrying her was romantic, and for a few precious seconds she could almost imagine that she was any other woman- one who hadn't just escaped being executed. Her question was serious, but also a little playful and amused, more like the old Rhoe, the one she hadn't been since last week.

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

Gavin sighed as the attendee guided the two of them to their room, two doors to the right. Kallirrhoe gave him a painful reminder that all Knights followed their vows. Some were just gifted warriors and were given knighthood not because of their virtues but how effective killers they were, others were Knighted because of nepotism. It was pretty common amongst sons of the nobility, however there were plenty of good Knights like Ser Thomas who taught him that a Knight must always put his vows first and be selfless. There was a reason why Daldaria called him The Terrific.

"Well where I'm from women are feared because they possess magical abilities that surpass men," Gavin said giving the attendee a nod of thanks entering the room. There was perks of being a hero even though Gavin worked hard to not let it get to his head. "We make sure that women are watched over by being by their side and if they show any signs of magic then they are hauled away. But my oath states that I must protect and honor women. You may be a witch but you are a woman."

Gavin gently placed Kallirhoe on the soft bed placing a hand on her slender shoulder. "They say that heroes are never late," he smiled a bit. "It's that they always arrive on time when damsel needs rescuing. If you ever need me Kallirhoe then I'll always be by your side to protect you or even carry you everywhere if necessary."

The young knight chuckled, what the hell was he saying? Protect? Carry? Sure that was a Knights vows but he said with intimacy laced in his voice. He had to admit he did enjoy carrying Kallirhoe especially if it made her feel safe and secure.

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

Rhoe nodded. The vows of a knight, a true one, seemed at times to be at odds with the customs of society. But she smiled playfully as he said that he would always be there to protect her- and then added carry her too. "And I'll enjoy every second, but perhaps I should tell you now that I swear by the gods this is real. Whatever happens... I'm not doing it. What I mean is, if we should fall in love- real love, not just mutual admiration- then that's a magic all its own. That perhaps it's as that man said- in elf years, chronologically, 145 is when our bodies mature. and I am only 178. There have been crushes of course, and those I've shared my body with to avoid injury or death, but as for love, time will tell. But I think....we might be making a very good start. You are as selfless as you say, and true love is selfless as well. And I truly did not want to ruin your reputation. If I had to die- for you- it's much better to have a reason that feels like a purpose rather than because of someone else's fear or hatred. And I hope- even if it might seem like I'm bragging on myself to say so- that it was selfless of me." It was as if she didn't quite know if someone with powers could be completely selfless. There might always be the temptation to use an ability for your own ends.

"And if this is love... or at least the beginnings of it... is it all right for me to love you, too? You're not scared of me? Because I'm not capable of manipulation- not like this. I don't know enough about what love feels like to be that way." The intimacy of his voice brought tears to her eyes, but so did her own confession. If he was scared of her, perhaps it was all hopeless.

 

[Ser Gavin Halbert]

"Love?"

In the storybooks the Knight would always get the girl, for a time Gavin believed it but given how he would always had the commoner's look over the years that hope slowly began to erode to the point where Gavin doubted if he could ever hold a relationship. But right now, as Gavin stared into Kallirhoe's eyes the young man stumbled back just stunned at what transpired. In many this was like the storybooks, the girl gets kidnapped and gallant knight saves her and they fall in love and live happily ever after.

Except the girl in general was a witch and Gavin was far from a gallant Knight he was like a boy trying to fit in Knight's armor and try to play a Knight. The young man was craven and full of regret, if he was truly the Lion of Oban than he would save Ser Thomas from being killed instead of lying in the sand like a coward. "If you're 145 years old," Gavin said gulping. "Then you'll obviously out live me but I haven't heard a girl let alone a witch tell me..... all the things you're saying. Now and days they show their breasts or lift their skirts. But before I became a hero they didn't pay me no attention. I don't know what I feel right now Kallirhoe, I'm just a man who let his mentor die and I don't even know what I'm doing. I'm just following his teachings as best I can but it's hard."

The young man closed his eyes. "All I know is that holding you for some reason gives me purpose." he said.

 

[Kallirrhoe Aedus]

"Perhaps, or perhaps not. There have been cases of early deaths in those with any elven blood due to grief." Rhoe sighed. That thought made her sad, though somehow the thought of being without him- in any capacity-- saddened her more. In any case, she would only live to 400, or maybe only a couple of years more, as she was not immortal like an elf or three-quarters elf could be. "But you are stronger than you know, I believe. If you can keep your vow to protect a woman even though she is a witch and it meant killing some of your brothers in arms..." She shook her head in wonder.
"I'm the one who fell apart, who isn't like myself. You'd have met a different girl a week or so ago. But being held by you gives me a place to belong again." Maybe just for now, maybe for always. But that meant something, to someone who'd never really belonged anywhere once her powers came in.

"What are we doing, both of us? A young human and a witch with elven blood. Yet here we are...cuddled in each other's arms and considering...considering what it might be like if we..." Even Kallirrhoe blushed. This would somehow be more than sleeping with someone, She'd give him all of herself, up to and including her heart, eventually... and that was a little bit frightening, "After a day in which we've both had brushes with death, and you had to kill some of your brothers in arms. Perhaps we both are different now, and nothing is left to do but embrace it." She curled against him, aching to lift her skirts...or possibly have them lifted for her, she realized. But still, her body would not move, though his touch and warmth were slowly easing the fear she still felt, especially being only a few miles away from her possible persecutors.

"I don't know. I am ready to embrace our new reality- but are you? All I ask is that you don't leave me while I'm not sure I'm safe... but I will not ever ask you for more than you are ready for."