тнє ℓαυяєℓ fℓσωєяѕ NEW THREAD delete this please.

[*ajayred*]

ah, sorry. yes i am pretty close to finishing the next chap. i do enjoying the bumping tho...

[*ajayred*]

I stood still with down cast eyes. My cheeks burned, my eyes stung and my heart pounded. I hadn’t expected to get caught this fast and defiantly not the way it happened. I refused to look up, and kept my jaw clamped. It was only me and bill in the tent and I could feel his heated stare on my head.

“You are, indeed a woman?” He asked slowly and sternly.

I gave a slight nod and swallowed. There was a make-shift desk between us, and even though I was sure he wasn’t going to hit me it sure felt like it. I did, after all, deceive him.

“I want to know why you felt it right to continue as a man after we accept you, you have been in situations we would have never put a woman in.” He said flatly, there was a scuffling sound and clomp-I assume from putting hit feet on his desk-table.

“I have….I want to fight on the front lines with the men instead of sitting back with the woman.” I started, trying to choose my words carefully. “I have goals I must accomplish that I cannot do on the side lines. Aside from that, overall in this world being a man is much easier.” All was true; of course, a man would rather ask help from the dumbest most inexperienced boy then from the smartest girl. I had lifted my head and looked him in the eyes; my head was held high and my tone even.

“I see. “He said curtly and put his feet on the ground. “You know, woman in the rebellion have much more freedom then outside of it, not only that but they are taught how to fight, isn’t this a step big enough for now?”

No. It isn’t. I had wanted to say, instead what came out was “yes, normally it would be…but for me it won’t get me where I need to go.” I put on a mask of confidence, one I wasn’t sure would work without my male status.

“Do you realize why we don’t let woman fight on the front lines?” His voice was strong and calm with such ease. While I on the other hand fought with my own to keep it steady. He stood and looked down at me.

“Why?” I asked, wondering where he was getting out, yet afraid to even know.
“When are not inferior to men. But they are indeed different.” He soundlessly walked over to me; given his size it was quite amazing. “A woman’s mindset is different than a man’s; you know this to be true. Women tend to be the more emotional of the genders. You can see how that that wouldn’t work out very well in a mess of swords, blood and cries. “

I was determined to bite my tongue and let him finish before I spoke. I stared ahead at a bug hanging on the tent, avoiding looking at him.

“Women are physically weaker then men, yes there are ways around that in a fight but sometimes strength matters. If I was to fall on the field, do you think you could carry or even drag me to safety?” He said poking my arm, it was muscular, sure, but next to his it was puny.

“I don’t know. “ I said, my voice almost wavering. “I would try; I would get help if I had to. I would roll you if I had to.”

He sighed and shook his head, sitting down on his desk-table and looking at me with a calculating expression.

“Besides stronger tear glands and the ability to grow larger muscle, men tend to jump ahead, recklessly throwing caution to the wind without even realizing it sometimes. You know it to be true,” I said words spilling out of my mouth like water before I could find a cork. “Not only is that, their ego and pride more likely to step in the way of goals.”

“Yes, both genders have their pros and cons.” His eyes searched mine. “Just what are you trying to get at now?”

“They even each other out. If you are planning on bumping be down a few ranks, I vise you to reconsider it, sir. As a man I may not have had to prove myself as I would to you now, but I am willing to do whatever it takes!” I exclaimed suddenly feeling brave, a new fierceness glazing my eyes.

He stared at me, pondering this as he pinched the bridge of his nose as if trying to warn off a headache. He closed his eyes and opened then slowly and pointed to the exit. I swallowed and turned, chewing my bottom lip and walking slowly.

“I will think about it. Until then, be on guard.” He said as I left the tent.

I peeked up the huge hole in the top of the cave-the Skylight, I like to call it- and saw the purples and coral coloring the sky like spilt water colors on a blue canvas. No use in sulking over it right now. I went looking for Falon and found her in her tent, once again sitting and sulking. I placed my hand on her shoulder and she flinched and looked up at me. Relief washed over her face.

“Oh I thought something terrible was going to happen to you!” She cried out twisting around completely.

“No, he is a reasonable man, but I don’t want to talk about that now…anyways it is a good time for that promised bath.” I said smiling, anticipating the warm water to wash away my troubles.

While I was undressing I took the chance to look at my shoulder. I had felt pain when I stretched the skin, the skin wasn’t broken or swelling, but it was an angry red. Since Falon had wasted no time in getting in the water I gathered the towels and put them near the second of the pools and got in myself, keeping an extra towel wrapped around myself-even after parading as a boy, I did have some modesty- and slowly slide in, stopping before the water hit my shoulder.

“Oh, I thought it would look worse than that.” She said, wading over to me, her white shift flowing behind her.

“Yeah, I thought so to, I guess I pulled it off fast enough.” I shrugged and gave a small grin. “I can now say at one point I caught on fire and lived with barely a scare. “

“you mean like that time you fell off a 30 foot ladder and was unharmed when you was seven?” she arched her brow, grinning. “From the bottom rung.” She added.
“Yes, yes details” I said rolling my eyes and exaggerating groan of irritation. “I always made a point to tell people the last bit.” I said giving a good natured smile.

She stared at me with a sudden intensity and then confusion before saying “just how did you manage to fool them into thinking you are a boy?” she said in a lower tone.

I shrugged and dunked my head under the water and took the lye soap off the edge and started scrubbing my scalp. “I would guess because people see what they expect to see. A woman wearing pants is supposed to be unheard of, unthought-of in some parts, woman also don’t normally speak so gruffly, know how to fight with swords and fist, or act so brazen. Since they people don’t expect to see a woman like that, they don’t see it. “I replied thoughtfully and dunked my hand and shook the suds from my hair, when I came back up I was sure I saw a flash in Falon’s eyes but ignored it. “Not only that, I don’t exactly have the traditional beauty standards,” I added and shrugged.

Falon did, though. She had fair skin and a narrow jawline, round wide set eyes, what people call a celestial nose and somewhat full lips. It was then I noticed her face wasn’t scared, her arms and shoulders were marred but her face was untouched. We mostly talked about the past, it was almost as if I had never ran, she had never been took, and we was back at home, minding our own business while annoying brothers.

I left first, as I was turning to a prune and Falon hadn’t been in warm water for months and wanted to savor it as long as she could. I walked to my tent alone, a few well-placed torches lite up my path to my tent, steam radiated off my damp hair as the cooling cave air tickled my face. I had left home and stayed on the streets for about a month and a half and stayed with the rebellion for about two months, winter would start soon and these chest bindings will finally provide wanted warmth, as though the summer they only caused heat rashes and extra sweat. I walked into my tent and stripped down and changed into my night shirt and flopped down onto my matt. Dreams did not come to me that night.

“Hey! Laurence! Bill is calling for you again; did you get in trouble or something?” Avery’s familiar voice called as his hands threatened to open the safety of my tent.

I snapped up and pulled on my pants scowling. I didn’t bother to respond as I pulled off my night shirt and pulled on my gauzy shirt and raked my fingers though my hair and went to grab my father’s cloak, upon lifting it I saw real mothers metal whip, I picked it up instead and wrapped It around my hips and pulled my shirt over it and walked out of the tent.

“Trouble? Like what?” I asked to nothing but the air as Avery wasn’t there. I shrugged and walked to Bills tent.

“The Plan is being set in motion. “ Bills voice boomed as I entered the tent, heart sinking seeing everyone here, Avery, Ross, Tate, Ida, Serret and Aurora, who seemed to be looking down as her stomach, flushed.

“Uh… hellooo….” I said awkwardly as all eyes turned on me.

“Ah... everyone, please leave I have something I would like to discuss with Laurence.” Said bill.

I hoped that meant he hadn’t already told them I was a liar. Aurora shot me a worried smile, Avery a confused look and Henry a sort of glare. I walked up to His make-shift desk and stood rod stiff.

“Tell me, what kind of life you had before turning into a boy.”

“I was a normal street…..” I trailed off seeing the warning flash through Bills eyes, I suddenly felt like crying. I swallowed and said strongly and honestly this time. “I had a life of silk dresses, fine jewels and embroidery lessons. As well as a life of leather vest, sharp swords and swordsmanship. I was the daughter of a fallen noble.”

“What is your real name?” I could see a whirl wind of unknown emotions flash in his eyes, but his face remained stoic.

“My real name is Laurel, but I went by Lara.”

“You are that girl Avery and I met in the forest the day of the Cymatilus kings ball.” He stated and I only nodded, a smile crept to his lips and he put his feet to the ground with a loud thud. “You see, Ida doesn’t have the manners or etiquette needed for this very important mission and Aurora is carrying a child, thus cannot do such a dangerous thing.” He paused to see if I was still getting it, wearily I nodded and he continued. “Thus, Avery, Serret, Henry and Ross ‘n Tate are all large burly men, you how ever aren’t and will take Auroras role.”

It was odd for Bill to beat around the bush; normally he simply snapped it at the roots. This drew out my worry which I tried to hide with my best acting abilities.

“You will be placed in the upcoming ball, find the king’s nephew and lure him out the back.” Bill arched a brow and stared at me.

I knew the answer, but I asked anyway. “And just how to you expect me to do that unless you want...” I began but seeing him grin, my face melted into one you would expect to see on a whiny child who found out there mother didn’t buy the dress they wanted. “Noooooo…..what about Anya?”

“She is too old to do that,” He said with no attempt to hide his amusement. “Now call in the others so we can talk about the rest of the plan to get the little snot.”

I turned on a hill; I puffed up my cheeks and clenched my fist so tight my knuckles turned white. I wanted to protest, but it would get me nowhere. I would have to think of something else. I poked my head out of the tent entrance and saw everyone off to the side joking around. They stopped when seeing me and i nodded my head back and make the come-here motion with my finger. Everyone had filled in and took their seat, I followed their lead.

“This is a kidnap mission. The target Sir Audrey, the Kings nephew” Bill said wasting no time. “Laurence will go in as a young noble-“At this Henry snorted-“the Daughter of a fallen noble trying to regain her status, you will be the one to lure the brat out back without causing much trouble. We will be able to get you in with a bribe or two”

My blood ran cold and I wanted to run now, but I sat back and yawned instead. Henry as hunched over shaking, holding his mouth to suppress his laughter. I glanced at Avery who was doing the same.
“Avery you will be a waiter, try to hang around Audrey, if you can’t then stay around Laurence. “ Bill continued ignoring the immature boys; Avery straightened up and listens once his name popped up. “Ida you are going to be a stable hand, once the clock hits midnight take three horses to the servants’ entrance. Henry will hang around the back as a knight before Ida get there with the horses subdue the other knights and keep a look out, we can’t have anyone stumbling upon that seen. Aurora is sitting this one out. Laurence, once you get the target out the door if henry is still watching out, knock him out throw him on a horse and run off to the eastern side of the castle, there will be a merchant cart waiting and a change of clothes. Avery will sneak out after everything has cooled down, and Henry, Ida, and Avery will take the last horses in behind Laurence. Ross and Tate will be on stand by for a plan B of their choice, as I trust their judgment. You have do days to prepare; you may have to switch out your clothing with another’s. You may all leave, except you Laurence.”

I was an inch away from pulling out my hair as everyone left the tent, Avery Patting my shoulder and giving a fake sympathetic smile and mischievous eyes before walking out.

“it is perfect, no one would suspect a woman of doing such a thing, with this you can prove to me you can stay in the front lines.”

“You are willing to bet so much so I could prove myself?!” I snapped.

“Yes. I am. And even if you fail I have ways I can salvage it. I may seem to be throwing caution to the wind, but I have thought a lot of this through now go to Anya’s tent and get your dress fitted.” HE said, and I did as told, as I left he added

“Keep in mind; this is also punishment for lying to us, for another reason all together it is a reward.”

I was, at that point a cyclone of feelings and thoughts. I would not let him think he won; I would not bend to this punishment. I was furious, I was humiliated; I was somewhat relieved he hadn’t told everyone and kicked me out. As if I couldn’t dig my hole any deeper.

[*ajayred*]

This chapter was surprisingly easier to right,so yay! the next outta be a breeze.

[.:A r i c a R e e:.]

This chapter was surprisingly easier to right,so yay! the next outta be a breeze.

Hopefully. Heheheheh.... this mission sort of seems like a very much better version of the cinderella story. XD

[Dark Moon]

I haven't read past the first chapter yet but so far it's been great. Lovely job.

[*ajayred*]

The two days where a blur, Avery and Henry had stopped their teasing once Anya got on to them, saying Avery once had to do something very similar and Henry does much more embarrassing things when intoxicated. Anya had surprised me with her sewing skills, despite being as clumsy and forgetful as she was, I had only been pricked once while she was hemming up the bottom of the dress and I moved as Ida walked in, grabbed something then left, if she noticed my slender back, she said nothing. Anya pulled out a half wig that matched my hair color completely and I knew she was enjoying this, playing dress up with me. Like my own mother did, using every chance she got to doll me up and fawn and fuss over me.

I stared ahead at the small mirror in front of me. Anya was behind me, pinning in the hair extension-wig-thing on and pulling the sides of my hair back, she put soft curls in my hair and in the center above the sliver barrette, a blue lycoris flower. She clapped her hands together, signaling she was done and I stood up and turned to face her, lips glossy, the bottom of my eyes lined black, the top with light ice blue highlighted with shimmering white.

“It is hard to see how well you pass for a boy…” she mused and smiled. “You truly are very pretty,”

“No, the paint on my face is pretty.” I said smiling humorously.

“Well, you best get out there before they come runnin’ in.” Anya chirped.

At that I nodded and walked out and picked up the many layers of cloth around my legs and to make up for the feminine appearance I put more swag into my strides and put on a scowl. We set up a small tent outside the caves so I could hop straight into the probably stolen carriage to avoid dirtying my dress. So I was trying to get to it as fast as I could when a hand gripped my shoulder and spun me around. I went even paler then the powder on my face.

“Are you sure you’re a boy?” Avery asked staring at me seemingly stunned.

“’bout as much of a man as you Avery.” I glared.

“I am not sure which of you should be more insulted…” Henry mused and chuckled walking up behind me. “They really put you in a dr-dress…..” he trailed off upon seeing my face and he busted out laughing. “You make a better woman then a man!”

I balled up my fist and clocked him square in the jaw, turned, picked up my skirts and walked to the carriage. I didn’t look back to see the damage, but I did hear Avery’s laugh and running feet. I grinned, satisfied with myself as I shook the pain from my hand. Serret, who took the job of chauffeur clucked his tongue and shook the reigns, the horses moved taking the carriage with them. I was supposed to help kidnap the boy who was supposed to be my arranged fiancé, so while he was supposed to capture my heart-gag- I now have to capture him. I wasn’t sure how I should feel about that. All well. A voice said. you can yet make the best out of this, can’t you? Rang the voice that had a habit of getting me in trouble. On the way to the castle –the whole idea having yet sunk in- I took to reading a story book filled with collections of folklore and princesses, most filed with happy endings, some gruesome. One story made me laugh, it was about a girl whose step mother ruined her life and one day she snuck out after making herself a fine dress with the help of an elderly woman and her grandchildren and she ran to the ball to find the prince. I found it funny because in my eyes, Bill was the elderly woman, Anya, the grandchildren and the prince was Audrey, only it isn’t a love story and the girl isn’t as violent as me.

I must have read more than I thought because the carriage stopped and the door opened moments later. I took my mask and placed it over my eyes, it was secured by two long wires coated in sliver, they slid under my hair and I pressed them tighter around my head to keep my mask from falling, normally the wire would be ribbons but ribbons would have to go over my hair. Anya wouldn't have that. The mask was black at the top, faded to white at the bottom, it was lined with silvery cloth and only covered the areas around my eyes and a bit of my cheek bones, a blue vine-looking pattern was its only other decoration.

“You look lovely, madam.” Serret said offering a hand like a proper gentlemen.

I put on an aristocrat smile and took his hand as I stepped down from the carriage, offering no thanks I walked up to the door like I had every right to be there. Two finely dressed knights stood on both sides of the large open door and a shorter, rounder man off to the side holding a rolled up paper looked at me and it looked like he would let me pass.

“May I have your name, madam?” The short man asked. Crushing my hopes of a simple entrance.

“My name is Laura Dollard, of the Apple Isle.” I said jutting out my chin.

“The...Dollards...” He said slowly then nodded. “Yes, the Dollards, but I do not believe they have children.”

Serret at this stepped up and leaned over, whispering something and placing a bag in his hands. For a rebellion organization, they sure had a lot of money to toss around. He quickly nodded and grinned greedily as he let me pass. I was sure i heard the worlds 'illegitimate' and 'child'.

Apparently not all the research was done on this party, it was a masquerade, yes, but while the men all wore dark blue and black, the woman wore icy blues and white. Many eyes turned to me and I felt like melting into the earth to avoid the eyes. I wore a dress that was tight around my torso, just high enough cut to hide that I am indeed female, with one wide strap to cover my burned shoulder, the lower half fluffed out around my hips and looked like an upside rose that hadn’t fully boomed. But that wasn’t the problem; it was sapphire blue at the top and darkened to a smoky black at the bottom.

“How bold of her.” Someone said. “She must really want to capture every man eyes.”

Or maybe he did do his research. I stepped further into the ballroom, an air of indifference my only shield. I saw the king seated firmly on his throne, eyeing the crowd like ants. I turned away. There I was in the ballroom I ran from, near the king I wanted to kill, to kidnap the man I was supposed to marry. Best raise the curtain to this show. I thought as I politely declined an offer to dance from a man old enough to be my father. My eyes gently scanned the crowd until catching sight of the boy I had only even seen, maybe five times in my life before, I knew it was him; his mask only covered half his face. I couldn’t very well waltz up to him, as a woman I was supposed to make him come to me, as my mother would say women must let the men think they thought of it first. To the side, Avery was already near him dressed in the sleek white man servant attire, holding a try with bottles of wine. I didn’t bother to hide my saucy grin before it faded into one of politeness.

“Wine, Mistress?” Avery asked, slowly turning to me with a grace I’d have never expected from him, what surprised me more was the gentle, polite smile, what didn’t surprise me was the mischievous glint in his eyes. His mask was a simple strip of soft black leather.

“Yes, the burgundy.” I purred with a touch of feminine charm, I could see the shock in Avery’s eyes, but his face stayed polite as he took an upside down glass from the bottom of the tray and placed it in my hands.

While he poured I glanced at the target just trying to think of different ways to do this. Feeling the weight in my hand grow, I nodded once for Avery to stop, and walked away, eyeing someone to talk to near Audrey.

“You are quite the brazen young woman.” A voice came from behind me and I turned to look up at cold grey eyes.

“I have heard many people say that about me, I can’t say I am bothered in the least. “ I gave a small smile and curtsied while introducing myself.

“I see, young women are getting older and bolder, I suppose it is a good thing.” He smiled, but there was no warmth in it. “I am pleased to meet such a lovely young girl; my name is Lykon, Lord Lykon stenzi. I am rather new to this position as you might see.”

I could indeed see, he acted more like an army general then a highborn. I could see a flicker of warmth spread over his features as I continued idle talk with him, over the ball, weather and other mindless things. The echo of music changed to a fast past waltz and I gave a small curtsy. “You must want to dance with many of these fine women; I won’t keep you any longer.” I hadn’t given him time to respond as I moved closer to Audrey, and now I wasn’t so sure how I would manage this. I had no idea what type of person he was and I had a bad habit of being rude to younger boys. That an-

“Would you like to dance?” I turned and smiled gracefully, while blanching under my powder and mask. Audrey stood in front of me, hand out with a somewhat cocky grin on his face.

Well, too late to talk yourself into another idea. I inwardly chided as I took his hand. Seeing the look on his face and the way he pulled me closer to him, I guessed he expected the girl to act as bold and saucy as her dress. Well I could do that, makes things easier on me.
“That is quite the attire, did you forget what was on the invitation, or simply decide to standout?” He asked me, placing his hand just below my shoulder.

“Neither, I was simply told I would wear this and come to the ball in place of my older sister, who was bedridden,” I answered amusedly.

“Ah, so you are obedient to your parents?”

“No, my aunt and uncle.” I corrected “my parents are going through hard times, it up to me to bring them up. I vowed to do it with my own hands.”

“I see…so you came here to find a prize?” He arched a brow.

I narrowed my eyes; he was accusing me of man hunting. I masked my expression with a giggle and slowly shook my head.

“No, I am here to have a fun night, to dance and talk with people I have never met. And you?” I chirped.

“My father, he likes to look for possible marriage matches for me anywhere he can, though I can’t see why I’m telling a girl such as yourself this” he chuckled as if it was absurd and I saw my opening.

“I see, you do everything your father asks of you?” I inwardly grinned as I saw a needle prick his male pride. He narrowed his eyes at me hard.

“Just what are you trying to say?” He asked almost growling, every trace of young happy arrogance gone-well it was still a bit arrogant-.

“Simply that you are a piece of clay your father is molding to raise his status I presume. Agreeing to such things, to please him? Or maybe because you don’t have the-” I paused as he spun be around and pulled me in glaring through his mask. “-have the fortitude to tell him know even when you don’t like it?” I purred, I was getting the reaction I wanted, drawing out his annoyance. It didn’t take much with someone like him.

“You don’t know what you’re talking about.” He said low and threatening. “I do it because i am needed to, for my family.”

“I see, so no matter what, you plan on doing as you’re told?” I had to hold back the wicked smile trying to form on my lips.

“Yes, no. in some forms” He seemed angry that he was getting confused.

“Then if that is the case, why not rebel once, tonight. “ I said excitedly, gripping his hand. “Just a ride into town and back, just to feel the wind and leave this behind for just a minute!” I exclaimed.

He stared at me skeptically, but my excitement seemed to rub off on him. “And where are these horses?” he grinned.

I took his hand and smirked. Weaving in and out of the groups of people, passed the gaudy mask and spinning blues, whites, and blacks. Then I simply needed to get him to the kitchen and out the back, only the world just wouldn’t have it that way.

“Oh, well how rude!” said a woman, whom as I looked at was defiantly Mrs. Dollard. Big hair, bright face paint, and my suspicion only confirmed as she lowered her hand held mask. My eyes widened slightly as she narrowed her eyes. “Why, is that you Laurel?!” she exclaimed.

“Laurel?” Audrey echoed.

I tilted my hand and smiled. “No, sorry madam, I am not this person you mistake me for” I giggled extremely high-pitched, my hand tightening around Audrey’s
Before she could even continue I took off with Audrey in tow and was suddenly aware Avery was supposed to stay near us, I could only hope he hadn’t heard. We burst through the kitchen staff door, eyes turned to us but I simply ignored them and ducked and dodged, even avoided a puff of four, Audrey however, didn’t and was coughing it up as I laughed and opened the back door to the kitchen, once out I saw that indeed, Henry had taken care of any guard or knight unfortunate enough to walk this way. I felt Audrey tense in my hand and I whipped around, he had wide eyes and looked as if he dart any second, so, like anyone would do in this situation, I was about to clock him. Only before i could do that he pulled me behind him and drew his rapier.

“Don’t worry, I’ll protect you.” He told me, one arm extended protectively, the other holding his rapier.

I started laughing and covered it with a kind of sobbing sound as Henry turned around and groaned, he had apparently expected me to knock him unconscious. I was wondering just how to handle this when Ida walked up with the horses, assessed the situation and bent over, picked up a rock and chucked it at Audrey’s head. When he had only stumbled back clutching his head and mumbling about foul play, she picked up an old frying pan covered in dirt, after that I was too busy laughing to hear the bang of the pan, and the thud as Audrey hit the ground.

“Now get ‘em on the horse.” She said, almost smirked as she tossed the frying pan to the side.

“Wait…how am I supposed to ride a horse in this circus tent?” I muttered taking Onyx by the reins and leading her closer to the unconscious Audrey. “HenHen, you wanna help me out here?”

I had to fight with my dress to find my legs, and once I did I put one in the stirrups and flung myself up, once again fighting to get my leg on the other side. I scooted back just before Henry picked up and put Audrey in front of me.

“Don’t call me that, Rence.” Henry glared and glanced around for anyone who might be coming.

I left him unanswered and gripped Audrey by his shirt tightly, I wasn’t strong enough to keep him particularly balanced, but he wouldn’t fall off. I was sure Bill knew that and was trying to make his point. I dug in my heels and tightened my legs around Onyx. We took off in a smooth gallop. Even with my posture (which was correct) Keeping Audrey balanced wasn’t a particularly easy job, I had to strain a couple of muscles to get the job done, but it got done. I was glad the ride was short and as soon as Serret walked up and pulled the deadweight that was Audrey from Onyx, I leaped off and gave her good rub down, I was sure carrying me and that lug wasn’t exactly comfortable.

“Alright, now, since that is over, does anyone know why bill wanted this brat?” I asked anyone who’d answer.

“A little bit of interrogation, or maybe he wants to find someone with a face close enough, dis figure it slightly and send him in as a spy.” Avery said, making his eyes wide in mock worry as he came up behind me riding a horse.

“You are such an idiot. “ Ida said tying the bonds on Audrey’s hands –I still don’t know how she snuck up so silently- letting him snore in the dirt.

“Hey, Bill is a mysterious man. One day he shows up in town, builds up a sudden rebellion before anyone realized what the king was doing? How weird is that?” Avery pointed out.

“So, are you complementing him or insulting him?” Henry asked from next to Avery on a horse of his own.

“Weren’t you all supposed to wait?!” I exclaimed.

“Got bored.” Said Avery.

“I thought it would be better to just go on after you.” Ida shrugged.

“I couldn’t let this smart-aleck get into trouble” Henry said as he jutted a chin out to Avery.

“What? Me? Nah. I’m a good boy on missions.” He grinned. “Mostly, sometimes I have to make my own calls.”

Henry had nothing to say to that and we hooked up the horses to the merchant cart, Ida had rolled Audrey up in a few blankets and Avery tossed him in the back covered up even more blankets. At least the bumpy ride would go softer for him.

[Moonblaze-Angel]

More.....more, more, more! I love your stories. I'm going to have to re-read them until you post some more. /sigh/

[*ajayred*]

“AAAHH!!!”
At that exact moment, I slapped my hand over Audrey’s mouth and shoved his head back down into the pile of blankets, tying a gag around his mouth.

“Just be quite you little brat!” I snapped, forgetting the fact he was about a year older than me.

I was already sitting on his stomach, struggling to keep him from squirming as Serret re-tied his feet. He had nearly escaped his bonds and was hopping away. For a stuck up brat, he sure put up a fight.

“Telling ya, should have just given him…uh! The drugs.” I grunted out, trying my hardest to keep from socking the boy.

“Ya know what? Shut up. We are running low and shouldn’t waste it on this boy” Serret replied.

“Alright, that’s it!” I bellowed as I took Audrey by his collar, jerked his head up and stared him straight in the eye. “Now you listen here…” I growled. “This will go easier and safer for you simply comply.”

He stomped for a moment, stared at me intensely and closed his eyes. Right before he head-butted me.

“Mother of me!” I said grabbing my head, peeking through my disheveled bangs to see him smirk victoriously through his gag.

I wrapped my hands around his neck but before I could let my temper get the best of me strong hands pulled me off Audrey and held me away as I kicked at him fuming.

“Calm down! Good grief!” Avery exclaimed way that suggested he was amused and trying to be serious.

Audrey stretched his chin up and to the side, wriggling his mouth out of the gag he glared venomously, as is we were the ones he captured. I only wanted to punch him more, though now I was mostly retraining myself, Avery knew better to let go of my shoulders at that moment and he was right.

“I can’t tell if you’re a fiery stupid woman or a fiery stupid boy.” He said.

“Ggraah!!” I growled and closed my eyes, wrenched myself form Avery and smiled so sweetly it was scary. “You know what? Little boy’s shouldn’t talk back.” I said in a voice equally as sweet as my face and gaged him again, with time with a sock Avery was holding out to me. “Good boy.” I said and stood.

It had been a day long travel; we were planning on meeting Bill at new location to avoid bothering anyone at the man camp, so for a while the rest of us had been waiting around for him to show, as we had got there first. I was having a much harder hiding my gender with everyone getting closer and closer and was beginning to wonder if I should just spill the milk. Maybe after I prove myself a little bit more… I had thought. I hoped I could settle it soon; it was like a saw cutting away at my guilt. I began walking while Serret and Henry tossed him back in the carriage rather ungracefully.

“So, we just wait here?” Avery asked, furrowing his brows leaning against a large rock.

“Yup.” Serret answered pulling his shirt off and hanging it up on a branch.

It was one of those impossibly hot days that sprig up out of nowhere and oh how I felt it. I was sweating a river and waiting for heat exhaustion to set in. I was dreaming about the day I could leave behind these bindings and wear a fewer layers in the heat when Avery got up, took off his boots, shirt and walked over to me with a grin that I knew to take as a hint of future trouble.

“Let’s go swimmin’!” He exclaimed before taking advantage of my size and starting to pull me over by the river.

Sure, he was probably just bored, but water will not help any matters of my deception, bindings would come loose, cloth will cling and not only would it be bad to be caught as a girl at this point but awkward too. So while I struggled against Avery’s grip, while digging my toes in the dirt and leaning back, Serret seemed to find this an amusing time to take my other hand and pull with his own amount of force to prove his point of wanting my help.

“Hey?” Avery said looking at Serret.

“I need his help; he can tie some pretty good knots.” Serret shrugged. Which was a lie; my knots where terrible, just better then the lot around me. (Not including Ida who was already busy)

“I need a play mate, you have Henry.” Avery retorted and he pulled.

“Henry has terrible knotting skills, you play with Henry.” his eyes narrowed.

“Henry is boring!” Avery whined and tugged my arm. Sometimes he had the mentality of a 30 year old, though at this point it was that of a ten year old.

“Cold, guys. Just cold...” Henry said dryly with a bit of a pout from what I saw and Ida simply snorted out a laugh as she continued her weapon sharpening.

Meanwhile, I was being pulled apart by to obviously strong men and could hear the seams tearing on my sleeves. Now it was a simple shirt, not made for work and I might have been surprised it held up as long as it did if I was wasn’t trying to figure out how to keep my arms in their joints.

“Guys….” I started out low and calm.

“Yeah well I need him more, for my boredom.” Avery pulled harder on my arm.

“It hurts…” I said furrowing my brows, being ignored like a child, glaring up through my messy bangs.

“I need his skills for my fish net. Let go!” Serret growled.

“Let me go!” I bellowed and pulled my self away, tripped over a rock and fell on my rear. When I looked up both off them held a sleeve in their hand. I was sure a vein was showing on my forehead as I glowered at them, trying to force my anger on to them like fog without showing too much on my face. A trick I learned from the rebellion girls, though it didn’t seem to work with me.

“That was my favorite shirt.” Avery said, as it was his shirt I was borrowing at the time.

“My mother always said girls would fight over me. This was not at all what I expected.” I said with a calmer voice, standing and walking away from them to let it sink in. even though she said boys, I think she would understand the replacement word. I mentally laughed.

“Did that feminine boy just call us girls?” Serret asked behind my back in a not-so-low undertone.

“Yes, I believe he did.” Avery whispered like a noble.

I felt coldness slide over me as I herd footsteps nearing me. In hindsight, that probably wasn’t the best thing to say. I had both the urge to run and to turn around. Deciding running wouldn’t work as Avery was much father then I, I turned and right as I turned around I saw both of them arms extended toward me with evil grins marring their faces.

“Wait guys….! Wait! ... No! “I protested vigorously as they towered over me and lunged.

Serret gripped me under my arms and Avery took my feet despite my struggle. I grabbed Serret’s hands and dug my nails in to distract him. I knew my whining and protest would get me nowhere, but I simply struggled anyway until they started swinging me back and forth after nearing the river.

“One! Two! …”

Just when they were about to let me fly I wrapped my legs around Avery’s arm, and reached and grabbed Serret’s arm. I had hoped it would simply make us drop to the ground; my hands really just reacted on reflex. Instead the momentum forced them to stumble and fall forward, landing us all in the deep river. I sunk in the cool embrace of the water, all thoughts of annoyance washed away. I pop my head out, disheveled hair covering my face, but not hiding the scowl underneath.
“You ruffians!” I exclaimed lunging for Serret, who was becoming more and more like a brother as the days went on.

Yes, he was rude, arrogant, and selfish and could say pretty cold things. Deep down he was just a softy; he could be rather nice under his tough exterior and had shown warmth unmatched by many. He might threaten to put a dog down for chewing his boots for the tenth time but can’t put down a chick that was an attacked by a cat.

I took a hand full of hair and dunked his head underwater, he took my shoulders and shoved me back into the water and dragged me back up. Water washed up my nose and I sneezed in his face laughing.

“Serves you right!” I laughed and felt a splash on my back and I whirled on him with waved of water.

“Aha I win! Got you in the water.” Avery said and Serret and I sent a big splash of water his way.

“Unfair, unfair!” Avery yelled trying to get us back with as much force as he could.

“Bunch of children.” Ida had muttered during our water war.

“What is that?” Henry said from the edge point a finger at a thin white strip behind me. Fear nipped at my gut, that wasn’t just a white strip, it was my binding.


Oh no…
“White adder!!” I screeched, the boys froze for a second and then the boys jumped out of the water so fast you’d think they left water drops behind.

I grabbed the end of my binding and leaped out the other side of river. I was hoping the fear of a white adder would keep their minds of any other explanation. That was solved, finding a place to fix my bindings wasn’t. I went fairly far into the forest until I found a large bush and hid behind it. I wasn’t planning on taking the chance of taking my shirt off, but when it proved too difficult to fix my bindings with it on I looked around carefully. Seeing no one I decided one arm out shouldn’t hurt, so I did just that and wrapped my bindings back up. Putting my shirt down, I let out a deep sigh of relief. I would be a liar if I said I didn’t fell annoyed, or scared. It was getting harder to be on guard around the people who were becoming like a surrogate family. I felt a presence behind me and being the paranoid person I was my first thought was someone had followed.

Maybe if I yell, shock them, I can knock them out and convince them it was a dream.

I turned around and raised my hands, filling my lungs with air to scream. Only to find myself looking at a deer looking equally stunned as I. It stared for a moment and darted off. Eyes glued to the deer for a moment I let out the breath I forgot I was holding and turned back around and jumped catching movement in the corner of my eyes. I took a step back into the bush and squeaked as I fell back.

Oh wow, that was just so manly Lara. I allowed myself to think sarcastically while I tried to pry myself from the thicket.

“So, that’s your secret?” Ida asked, staring down at me with her hands on her hips.

“Ah!-That, I don’t know what you mean. And please don’t sneak up on people!” I snapped, trying to stand as quickly as I could.
She reached her hand out to me and as if on reflex I took it and stood up, eyeing her with suspicion of what she saw, if anything.

“You’re woman huh?” she asked in her calm tone. “I have to say, I am only partially surprised.”
And there it was, no tact, no sugar, just plain as hot tea spilt on someone’s lap. Ida was that kind of person when she spoke, I have grown accustom to it, yes. Not for it to happen to me, however.

“You can’t tell anyone! “ I immediately said, taking her hand pleading with my eyes. “Please!” I begged, the words pouring from my mouth before I could find my pride filter.

“Too bad, you liar. “Her eyes narrowed and she shook my hands off.

“Please! Ida this is a secret I need to keep just a while longer. “I said a bit deeper and sterner.

She took a deep breath and looked me in the eye, her dark orbs giving no indication of her real thoughts. In silence she stood, studying me as I studied her with a plea filled eyes and a stony serious expression.

“Fine.” She finally answered me and started walking. She was angry, at least I believed so.

I couldn’t believe how fast that had gone, it was clear, yet confusing. On the brighter side of things, getting closer to Ida as a female would be easier, or so I hoped. She was introverted and quite the sarcastic person and at the same time could be friendly. She was ever the particular woman. Unlike Aurora, she was strong in a different way, she didn’t seem confident in some of her ability, but you’d never known had you not paid attention to her-which, might I add, she hates.

“But, don’t think I won’t make use of this piece of blackmail. “ Ida purred, sneaking only a glance back at me.

At the moment I felt doomed, demolished and frustrated at myself. Only it passed quickly as I came up with a plan. A good plan I might just add. We let the fragile silence hang in the air between us heavy as rocks.
We returned to the camp shortly after. Everyone already back to their jobs, Even Avery. None seemed to notice Ida and I walk up, they didn’t see the heavy air ether. I was left wondering if I made an enemy of her, while she was left wondering how to use this information I was sure. Serret waved Ida over while he messed with some rope, I believed was supposed to be a net. She complied going to his side and naturally working with the rope with ease and graceful, yet strong hands. Henry was asleep against a tree with his legs crossed at the calves and a hat covering his eyes. Avery starting to cook some stew while sitting on a crate. It all seemed natural and strange at the same time. The air was light, but it felt heavy around me. I forced myself to smile and try to shake off the melancholy mood.

“Need any help?” I asked Avery who shook his head while he stirred the stew.

“Oh... Well okay then.” Said I and turned to Serret and Ida. “What about you guys?”

“No, you would just get in the way now that Ida can help.” Serret answered for the both of them.

“Well okay…” Something didn’t seem right. “I will just go and watch the prisoner then…” I said. From the corner of my eye I saw Henry fidget and Avery shoot an almost worried look at Serret who ignore him.

I furrowed my brows and headed that way, passed Serret and Ida who were on the ground working on the netting. Serret’s hand shot out and snapped around my ankle and I looked down at him, barely missing the flash across his eyes.

“Maybe we could use your help.” He said. At tis Ida raised her head and paused, looking confusedly at Serret.

“What…why now?” I asked, creasing my forehead and pulling my foot away.

“Well, it would go faster with you staying to help out.” Serret said almost too fast.

“What is it you don’t want me to see?” I asked and furrowed my brows. Ida seemed just as confused we me.

I dodged his hand and marched closer to the Carriage Audrey was in. I was expecting many things, he escaped, they killed him or he leaked some kind of information he remembered about me. I did not expect to see what was before me as I pulled the carriage door open to see a sleeping, tired up Audrey. I furrowed my brows and looked back. All the boys where snickering.

“I told you he would fall for it!” Avery managed through his laughing.

“That was almost too easy.” Serret replied.

I glared at them and slammed the door closed. “You guys are just so wrong! I thought you killed him or something!” I snapped, but I couldn’t hold the glare and let out a snort and a small laugh with them.

“Can we eat now?” I asked after my stomach had growled and the smell of the meaty stew tickled my nose.

“Yep. Rabbit stew goodness.” Avery said filling some wooden bowls and passing then out. Everyone hurried over, wasting no time.

I let out a small exasperated sigh and opened the carriage door just a crack to see if I woke Audrey up, when he seemed sound asleep I sighed again out of relief. Just as I went to close it, much softer this time, so as to not really wake him up.

“Laurel…”

[.:A r i c a R e e:.]

Ahhhg... needz...more..

[katomorakwarrior]

Oooooooooooh.
More. I just need more story.
Don't even try to talk to me until you give me more story.