As dawn paints the horizon with streaks of rose and gold, the first rays of sunlight peek through the windows, coaxing Merig and Larry’s houses into wakefulness. Larry stirs, blinking at the soft light. He glances down at Ashley, still nestled against him, the sheets tangled around their naked bodies. A tender smile graces his lips as he leans in, brushing a gentle kiss on Ashley's forehead. Caught between sleep and wakefulness, she flutters her eyelids open, her gaze meeting Larry's warm smile.
(L)[smiles] Good morning, beautiful.
(A)[smiles] Good morning, I guess last night wasn’t a dream, was it?
(L)Nope, if it was, that was one hell of a dream.
(A)I almost don’t want to get out of this bed.
(L)Trust me, neither do I. We’ve got some time before I have to leave, so we can lie here and I can kiss all over you.
(A)[smiles] I’d love that very much, then we can make love again before you go.
(L)Sounds good to me, I’d love that very much.
Larry embraces Ashley with a sense of warmth and longing, pulling her closer as they share a tender good-morning kiss. He rolls Ashley over on her back while he gets on top of her, the sheets rustling softly beneath their bodies, as they savor another intimate moment before reluctantly getting out of bed. Over at Merig's house, he and Kate are tangled up in each other's arms, Merig lying on his back as their bodies molded together in a peaceful embrace. Kate's head rests gently on Merig's chest with her arms draped over his torso while his arm securely holds her close while she sleeps. As Merig slowly wakes up, he gazes down at Kate with adoration, appreciating the sight of her in his bed. However, reality soon hits him as he remembers he has to get ready for his morning patrol. He carefully tries to disentangle himself from Kate without waking her, gently trying to move her arm from his torso. But instead of cooperating, Kate lets out a soft groan and clings to Merig tighter. He sighs in defeat, knowing he must wake her and face the consequences. With a loving gaze, he shakes her gently and speaks to her in a hushed tone, not wanting to disturb the peacefulness of the moment.
(M)Kate sweetheart, it’s time to wake up. I have to get ready to go.
(K)[groans] No, don’t leave, I’m comfy. Just five more minutes.
(M)[chuckles] Come on, Kate, I promise I’ll be back before you know it after the patrol. Especially if you sleep until I get back.
(K)[groans] But you’re so warm and I’ll be too cold to sleep. I have to get up, anyway. I’m sure you’re hungry.
(M)Alright, you win, we can lay here for a little bit until you fully wake up.
Merig shifts his body to face Kate, wrapping his arms around her tightly as they snuggle under the warm covers. They exchange a knowing glance and share a smile before Merig pulls her closer for a kiss. After some time lying together, they finally get up and begin their morning. While Kate is in the kitchen cooking breakfast, Merig remains upstairs as he’s getting dressed for the day. As he's getting ready, Kate calls out to him softly, and he responds with a loving tone in his voice.
(K)Breakfast is almost ready for you, my love!
(M)I’ll be right there, sweetheart!
After Merig finishes getting dressed, he exits the room and heads downstairs. He descends the steps and enters the kitchen where Kate is hard at work cooking. As he approaches her, he wraps his arms around her from behind and leans down to kiss her cheek. She turns her head to look at him, and they share a sweet smile before exchanging a tender kiss.
(K)I love you.
(M)I love you, too. Larry should be getting ready by now, so I have time to eat and kiss you.
(K)[smiles] Sounds like the perfect plan. I’d love that very much.
Merig shares another kiss with Kate before she finishes cooking and she and Merig enjoy a lovely breakfast together until it’s time for Merig to leave. A while later, the front door opens while Merig walks out and Kate walks out behind him. Merig turns back to look at Kate while the two say their goodbyes for the day.
(K)Please be safe out there, my love.
(M)I will, you be safe here, too. Stay inside and don’t let anyone in unless it’s me, Ash, or Larry, okay, sweetheart?
(K)Okay, I promise. I love you so much.
(M)I love you, too. I’ll see you later.
(K)Goodbye, for now, my love.
(M)Goodbye for now.
Merig and Kate share a soft smile. Merig reaches for Kate, gently leans down, and plants a goodbye kiss on her cheek. Suddenly, Larry appears from next door, catching them outside. With a cheerful greeting, he strides over. Merig and Larry then head out together on their patrol.
(L)Good morning, you two.
(K)Good morning, Larry.
(M)Good morning, buddy, are you ready to head out?
(L)Yep, let’s go kick bandit ass…hopefully.
(M)Hey, we just might get lucky today, you never know.
(L)Let’s hope you’re right. You stay safe here, Kate, okay?
(K)I will, you two be careful, as well! I’ll see you later.
(L)Don’t worry, we will. See ya.
(M)Alright, let’s get out of here.
(K)I love you, sweetheart.
(M)I love you, too.
Merig and Larry turn to leave, heading out on their morning patrol together. Kate lingers outside, watching them depart until they disappear from view. Curiosity gnaws at her, and she glances around to see if Barth remains hidden, keeping watch over the house. Taking a tentative step away from Merig's house, Kate begins to peek around each corner and down alleyways nearby, searching for any sign of Barth. With no sign of him, worry creeps in. After a while, she calls out to him, hoping for a response.
(K)Barth?! Are you here?!
A tense moment stretches as Kate receives no reply. Her heart clenches with worry. Barth's words from yesterday echo in her mind, his fear of capture by the bandits. Suspicion solidifies into a knot of dread. Deciding to retrace her steps, Kate turns back towards Merig's house. She hesitates at the door, wrestling with whether to re-enter. Just as her hand reaches for the knob, the door from one house over, swings open. Ashley emerges from Larry's house, her gaze landing squarely on Kate about to enter Merig's. Reacting swiftly, Ashley calls out to her.
(A)Kate! Is that you!?
(K)[gasp] Hey, Ash! Did you stay the night over there?
(A)[smiles] Hell yeah, I did.
(K)Oh my god, Ash, get over here! I cooked breakfast if you’re hungry.
(A)Yes! It’s been so long, I’ve missed your cooking!
(K)Well then, come on, hurry it up.
Ashley closes the door behind her as she practically rushes over next door to Merig's house. Laughter spills from the two women as they reach the door. Kate ushers Ashley inside, and with a grateful smile, closes the door behind them. Settling around the dining table, they both dig into the breakfast Kate has prepared. Conversation flows easily as they eat, Ashley's delight evident. Kate's cooking, she declares, is something she's sorely missed since Kate has been staying with Merig.
(A)Oh my god, it feels like an eternity since I had your amazing food. I missed it so much.
(K)[giggles] Always happy to share my love through my food.
(A)Oh I definitely feel the love when I eat your cooking.
(K)So you stayed the night with Larry, huh?
(A)You bet, I did, and uh…we did things.
(K)[gasp] You better spill those beans, girl.
(A)Well, it happened so fast, it almost felt like a dream. One minute I’m in my robe brushing my hair for bed and Larry and I were talking and gossiping about you and Merig making love. And then the next minute he’s asking me when it’s our turn to make love and he said something about how you guys took this big leap in your relationship. And then these words came out of my mouth about us taking that big leap in our relationship, too. And that I was scared of falling because I was hurt so much in the past. Larry was talking all sweet and poetic and told me he wouldn’t let me fall and I believed him. I told him I was ready if he was and then he picked me up and tossed me on the bed and then he got on top of me. He took off my robe and the look he gave me when he did sent chills down my spine. He looked really happy, with passion in his eyes at the same time. And then he took his clothes off and then it happened. I now understand what you meant about the feeling of time stopping. After that, I cried like a baby because I got this overwhelming feeling of happiness that I hadn’t felt before. Then Larry wipes away my tears and holds me and we eventually fall asleep naked, all cuddled up in the blankets.
(K)Oh my god, you’re gonna make me cry now, Ash, that’s so beautiful. It’s an overwhelming feeling. I can agree with that, you just have to embrace it. You cried happy tears, and that’s okay. Now I’m gonna ask the same question you asked me…how was it?
(A)[giggles] Oh my god It was fantastic, Kate, my emotions ran absolutely wild, and I didn’t know what to do, but just let it happen. I just accepted what was happening and what I was feeling, and the love that I felt was just insurmountable. Larry was amazing. It’s as if our souls were intertwined. I could go on about it all day like you, but I understand now.
(K)It’s a wonderful feeling, isn’t it?
(A)It really is, and Larry has been waiting so long to be with me. Even after all this time, he never stopped loving me, even though I broke his heart so many times. I know what a broken heart feels like and I never meant to break his heart, Kate. I feel like a shit person, but Larry still loves me and I love him and I don’t know what to do with myself.
Ashley's voice cracks as she speaks, her eyes welling up. Red stains begin to bloom on her cheeks as tears spill down her face. Kate's gaze softens with concern. Rising from her chair, she pulls Ashley into a warm embrace, offering silent comfort. Sobs wrack Ashley's body as Kate holds her close. After a moment, Kate gently breaks the hug. They share a shaky smile as Kate takes a cloth from her pocket and offers it to Ashley with a sympathetic gesture. Ashley wipes away her tears, a grateful smile replacing the sadness on her face. Taking a shaky breath, she continues to speak.
(A)Thank you, you’re such an amazing friend.
(K)And so are you. You’re not a shit person, Ash. You were scared and I completely understand.
(A)But I had nothing to be scared of. Kate, Larry told me he’d never break my heart and I believe him. This means I could’ve saved myself from heartache all those times and I didn’t have to break Larry’s heart in the process.
(K)You used to tell me all about you getting your heart broken by your past relationships. It’s okay to be scared of being heartbroken. You lived and learned, and you needed to give yourself time to heal. Ash, jumping into a relationship with Larry while you were still healing would’ve been chaos. You gave yourself time, and you were confident enough to give Larry a chance, and I admire that about you. What happened to me took me a long time to recover from, and you and I both know that. I knew Merig was a good person, and that’s why I fell in love with him. Since we’ve been together, he’s helping me heal from my past. I may still have scars, but he keeps them from reopening.
(A)You’re right, I needed time and Larry understood that. He was willing to wait for me until I was ready because he knew what I went through. Maybe I’m not such a shit person after all and I just needed to learn from my mistakes and give myself time.
(K)You’re not a shit person, you’re my best friend, and I love you.
(A)I love you, too.
(K)It’s gonna be okay, Ash.
(A)I feel so lucky to have Larry in my life.
(K)I feel lucky to have Merig, too, we’re both lucky.
(A)We are and I wouldn’t trade any of it for the world.
(K)Me either.
(A)Well, I’d love to sit and chat more but I have guard duties. I hate leaving you here alone.
(K)I’ll be fine, don’t worry about me, I’ll stay here and lock the door.
(A)Okay, you're safe here. I’ll call a guard over here to watch the place.
(K)Alright, and you be safe out there, I'll see you later.
(A)Okay, I will. See you later.
With a final, lingering hug, Ashley composes herself and prepares to leave. Kate walks her out, a wave goodbye lingering in the air before she closes and locks the door behind them. Meanwhile, deep within the forest, Merig and Larry patrol the north entrance. Merig dismounts to check the traps, his movements efficient as he scans for any sign of bandit activity. Larry keeps watch at the entrance, his gaze focused outward. Finding the traps empty, Merig finishes his inspection and calls out a command to his horse before riding towards Larry.
(M)The traps are clear again today. Ashley should be here to put some more out. Although, it seems some were set off, but the bandits were either too quick or they had help to escape them. It also looks like there was a fight out here. I see scorch marks on some trees and slash marks. The bushes look ruffled, and I also found some arrows and bolts on the ground.
(L)That’s weird, sounds like maybe there were some bandits out here and had a scuffle with some innocent passerby. But we haven’t seen any bandits around lately, so why would they come out now, of all days?
(M)You never know, it could’ve happened in the middle of the night. But it looks like whoever they were fighting, there was a struggle. I’m picking up bandits' scents and there’s also a familiar scent that I can’t place. I smelled it when that bandit got caught in the ice mine that day. A bandit shot an arrow at me when you and I split up to case the area, and before he could attack me again, someone came out of nowhere and started firing magic at the bandit and brought it down. Before I could even ask who it was, I heard that bandit scream when he got caught in the mine.
(L)I see, what was the person wearing?
(M)A gray cloak and a blue mask…the same person Kate described.
(L)Well then, this cloaked person does exist. Who do you think it is?
(M)I’m not for certain, but he kind of smelled like my brother.
(L)Barth?! That makes a lot of sense since we know he uses magic. We haven’t seen him in ten years. I thought he left Cormac’s camp after we did.
(M)I thought so too, he said he was going to come to the city, I wonder what happened.
(L)Maybe he did leave, and that’s why Cormac is after us. Cormac did threaten us before we left. Maybe he threatened Barth, too.
(M)But then why target Kate?
(L)Cormac wants his revenge, not just on Barth but on us, too. That’s the only conclusion I can muster up.
(M)It makes perfect sense. He’s probably rounding up all the bandits for a fight with us. That’s why we haven’t seen many of them out here. Wait…that’s why he’s going after Kate. She’s the bait.
(L)Which explains the cloaked figure Kate saw that day when she got the fake letter, which means Barth has been trying to protect Kate this entire time and Cormac’s cronies must’ve captured him to get him out of the way. Maybe Barth is the reason why we haven’t seen any bandits trying to infiltrate the city. We have to tell Ash when she gets here. We need stronger traps or a different placement strategy. At least, that's what Ash told me last night when she stayed over.
(M)Wait, what? She was at your place last night?
(L)[smiles] Yep, in fact, she spent the night.
(M)Oh? Is that a first?
(L)As a matter of fact, it is. I smooth-talked her into it, and uh…some things happened.
(M)Things?
(L)Yep, things…we made sweet, sweet love. It was fantastic, buddy. I was in heaven.
(M)I bet, but how did you manage that?
(L)Well, I kind of just asked her, like you said you did with Kate. I told her how much I loved her and she said she was scared and we talked about taking a big leap in our relationship. I told her I'd be there to hold on to her, so she didn't fall and she trusted me and said she was ready. Then the next thing I know, I picked her up, put her on the bed and the rest is history.
(M)Wow, that’s awesome, I'm happy for you, buddy. I know you've probably been waiting for ages for that to happen.
(L)Yeah, but I'm realizing that it was more than worth that wait. I love Ash and I'd wait an eternity if I had to.
(M)I know you would. I was the same way with Kate. Then you showed me how to grow a shiny new spine.
(L)Yeah, at least Ash knew how I felt about her before we got together. But hey, that's neither here nor there. We're here and we're with the beautiful woman we love and I couldn't be happier.
(M)Me neither, you were right, we are two lucky goblins, aren’t we?
(L)That, we are my friend, that, we are.
Their shared victories with their beloved women bring a chuckle to the goblins' lips. The moment is short-lived as Ashley emerges from the north entrance, mounted on her horse. She's clad in her Royal Alchemist uniform, a determined glint in her eye as she heads toward Merig and Larry. The goblins spot her and call out in greeting, turning their full attention to her as she draws closer.
(L)Well hello, my beautiful royal red hot alchemists.
(M)Hey Ash, glad you could be here.
(A)Hey you two, sorry I'm late, I had to stop by and see Kate. She said she cooked breakfast, and I just had to indulge in her amazing food.
(M)Oh, I don’t blame you one bit.
(L)Damn, I should've eaten some before we left. I wasn't thinking.[sigh] Oh well.
(A)It's okay, Larry, there's always next time. I'll go check my traps while I'm here. Were any set off?
(M)A few, but no bandits, sadly.
(A)Damnit, why are my traps not holding them? What am I doing wrong?
(L)I'm sure your traps are fine, sweetheart. Merig and I actually have something we want to discuss with you, and we want to see what you think.
(A)Okay yeah, I’m listening.
(M)Well, remember when we told you about the bandit camp we used to be a part of?
(A)Yeah, I remember, some guy named Cormac was the leader, and you both left and he got butthurt about it, and said that you two would regret leaving.
(M)Yeah, well, we think he’s making good on that threat, and we think he’s intending on capturing Kate to lure us in and cause a huge fight. I also think my brother has been trying to stop him.
(A)Wait, your brother? You never told me you had a brother.
A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.
(M)Yeah, he's my older brother. His name is Barth. I failed to mention him. Sorry, Ash. We thought he had left the camp after we did, but I have a suspicion that Cormac threatened Barth, too. The person in the gray cloak and blue mask that Kate mentioned, I think that’s Barth because I picked up his scent. I saw him that day when we caught a bandit in one of your ice mines. The bandit told us that Cormac was planning something the day we told you about us being a part of Cormac's bandit camp. The bandit said that Cormac was planning a big reunion.
(L)We think Barth recently left Cormac's camp and has been fighting off the bandits, so he can keep them from getting inside of the city to kidnap Kate. But Merig looked around and he said there were arrows on the ground and scorch marks on the trees, which means that bandits were most likely out here last night fighting Barth and they captured him to prevent him from ruining Cormac’s plan. Which means we need to keep a really close eye on Kate when we’re done out here.
(A)Oh god, the thought of her getting taken churns my stomach. I sent a guard over to your place, Merig, so she should be safe until we're finished.
(M)Good, so we don’t have to worry about that, at least.
(A)I’ll go do my thing like I said I’d do and think of how to place my traps and mines better. I’ll also clean up the activated ones. I shouldn’t be long.
(L)Okay, beautiful, just give us a whistle if you need us. You be careful, I love you.
(A)I will, I love you, too.
Ashley rides up alongside Larry, a smile blooming on her face. They share a quick exchange, a private moment punctuated by a stolen kiss. With a final wave, Ashley spurs her horse deeper into the trees, her uniform a splash of color against the verdant backdrop. Merig and Larry settle back into their watch, their gazes sweeping the entrance. Ashley doesn't stray far, remaining within sight as she checks her traps. A cunning glint appears in her eyes when she spots the ones Merig mentioned as triggered. Dismounting swiftly, she expertly disposes of them, her mind already concocting a new placement strategy for next time, and continues her rounds on her horse. Suddenly, a rustle from the nearby bushes pierces the quiet. Ashley sits up straighter, scanning her surroundings with a practiced eye. No movement, but a tense silence hangs heavy in the air. Reaching for her alchemy cylinder, she fills it with crystals, preparing to face whatever lurks in the shadows. The cylinder's tip remains aimed at the rustling, her gaze unwavering. A figure bursts from behind the foliage, a human bandit with his crossbow aimed squarely at Ashley. A tense standoff ensues. The only sound is the ragged breaths of both. Out of the corner of her eye, Ashley catches a glimpse of an activated trap just a few feet to her right, cleverly disguised. A slow smile creeps across her face. With measured steps, Ashley backs her horse away, never breaking eye contact with the bandit. Encouraged by her apparent retreat, the bandit closes the distance, the crossbow still aimed at her. Just as he steps into the trap's path, with a satisfying snap, the contraption springs. The bandit lets out a howl of pain, trapped and struggling in vain. A triumphant whistle escapes Ashley's lips. Waving her hand, she signals to Merig and Larry, their droopy pointed ears twitching at the sound. Spotting her signal, the goblins charge towards her, eager to see what bounty she's captured. Finally reaching her position, they find Ashley standing above a writhing bandit, Merig dismounting to approach the now-helpless foe.
(M)You’re only making it worse for yourself by doing that.
(HB)Let me out of this thing, damnit! That bitch tricked me!
(L)Yeah, my woman is good like that. And watch what you say about her. Don’t make me come over there.
(M)We haven’t seen any of you filthy bandits in a while. Did Cormac get my message?
(HB)Oh yeah, he got your message alright, and I have one in response from him.
(M)Alright, let’s hear it, asshole.
The bandit chuckles and smirks. More bandits emerge from hiding, brandishing weapons and spoiling for a fight. Merig, Larry, and Ashley glance around at the vast horde. They ready their weapons in response. Ashley steadies her cylinder, Larry grips his swords in both hands, and Merig nocks an arrow on his bow, taking aim at the bandits. With a determined look, Larry and Ashley dismount their horses, prepared to fight alongside Merig.
(L)Finally, we’re gonna have some fun!
(M)Alright, but it’s your funeral, bandits! Don’t let that bandit escape from that trap!
(A)You got it, let’s take care of these assholes!
The bandits charge, weapons gleaming, as Ashley unleashes a torrent of water from her cylinder, soaking the attackers in rapid succession. Larry roars and charges forward, a whirlwind of steel, as his swords carve a path through the bandit horde. Merig hangs back, a deadly archer picking off targets with deadly accuracy. The battle explodes, and the three figures a whirlwind against the wave of bandits. Inside the city walls, a guard hears the commotion. He rounds a corner, witnessing the chaos, before scrambling back towards the city to sound the alarm. Alerted to the battle at the north entrance, the remaining guards abandon their posts, a tide of steel surging towards the fight. Outside, the three continue their assault, blades flashing and water flying, until the tide turns again. A phalanx of guards emerges from the north entrance, the guard in front barking orders. Recognizing his reinforcements, Merig ceases fire, turning to face the approaching guards. He wastes no time, rushing forward and assuming command as they reach the battleground.
(M)Ready your weapons! We have a large horde of bandits! Attack at will!
(G1)Yes, Commander! Charge!
The guards surge past Merig, a wave of steel crashing into the bandit ranks. Merig falls in behind, shooting arrows at the horde of bandits. Meanwhile, chaos brews elsewhere. At the city's south entrance, three figures slip through the gates, a goblin and two cloaked humans. The goblin, his form unmistakable, a familiar gray mask, and a jagged scar etched across his arm, is Gordo, the selfsame bandit who terrorized Kate in the forest nearly a year ago. Merig's arrow, the one that sent Gordo fleeing then, is a grim memory etched on the goblin's arm. Unnoticed, the three bandits slink deeper into the city, one of the humans breaking the tense silence.
(HB1)Are you sure you know where that woman is, Gordo?
(G)I sure as hell do. Barth was reluctant to give me any information, but Cormac made him talk.
(HB2)Let’s just hope she doesn’t attack us with her magic.
(G)Oh, that won’t be a problem. It’ll be three against one. She’ll have no choice but to comply.
(HB1)And since all the guards have left their posts, that means the one guarding Merig's front door is gone, too.
(G)That's right, let's just hope the bandits can hold him and the guards off until we get Kate out of the city.
The three bandits weave through the streets, their steps purposeful as they close in on Merig's home. Inside, Kate bustles about the kitchen, on the verge of pouring a cup of tea when a jarring knock shatters the quiet. She spins around, startled, caution etching lines on her face. Hesitantly, she approaches the door, hand hovering near the handle. But doubt lingers, and she calls out to the unseen visitor, her mind racing.
(K)Who is it!?
(G)Open the door!
(K)No, I’m not opening the door. What do you want?
A sudden bang explodes on the door, startling Kate. She gasps, her heart hammering, as the pounding continues. It's relentless, as if someone is trying to break their way in. Kate whirls around and sprints for the stairs, desperate for a hiding place. She spots the hallway closet and throws herself towards it, flinging the door open before scrambling inside. Slamming the door shut, she stands frozen, stifling her ragged breaths with her hand. Then a sickening crack. The door splinters open, and the sound of heavy footsteps fills the house. Bandits. They're searching downstairs for her. Kate huddles deeper into the darkness, fear a cold knot in her stomach. Muffled shouts echo from below, sending shivers down her spine.
(G)Where are you, human?! No use hiding. I know you're here!
(HB1)She's not down here, Gordo.
(G)Stay down here in case she tries to make a run for it out the door, I'm checking upstairs.
Gordo scrambles up the stairs, bursting into the hallway. He throws open the guest bedroom door, eyes scanning the room in a frantic search. He looks under the bed and checks the closet, but he finds nothing. He charges out, making a beeline for Merig's room. The bathroom door swings open, and the shower and cupboards are inspected in a blur. He emerges, eyes darting towards the balcony doors. They fly open, Gordo straining his neck to see if Kate’s hiding there. Stuck in the closet, Kate’s anxiety spikes, but she holds her breath, forcing herself silent. Gordo spins on his heel, back into the room, sniffing the air like a hunting dog, desperate to catch her scent.
(G)I know you're here, I can smell you!
Gordo walks around, sniffing the air relentlessly. He reaches the bed and drops to the floor, peering under it. Finding nothing, he rises and circles the bed before exiting the room. In the hallway, a sudden sniff stops him in his tracks. He turns his head slowly, eyes fixed on the closet. Another sniff confirms it, Kate's scent, strong and unmistakable. A low chuckle escapes him as he turns towards the closet, a slow grin spreading across his face. He approaches, hand reaching out to the doorknob. With a swift movement, he throws the door open, revealing a startled Kate who screams and backs away.
(G)Did you honestly think I wouldn’t find you? You’re terrible at hiding.
Kate, with lightning crackling around her fingertips, unleashes a bolt straight at Gordo. He reacts instantly, twisting to the side as the spell explodes harmlessly behind him. Seizing the opening, Kate sprints past him, in a desperate dash for freedom. She bursts through the wide-open balcony doors of Merig's bedroom and scans the perilous drop outside. It's too far to jump. Gritting her teeth, she spins around to retreat inside, only to find Gordo blocking the entrance. Her back pressed against the railing, she scrambles away, eyes darting for another escape.
(G)[chuckles] Nowhere to run, now you can either jump to your death or come with me. Which one do you prefer?
(K)What the hell do you want with me?
(G)It's Cormac who wants you, so do us both a favor and come quietly.
(K)Like hell, I will.
(G)I guess you’ve made your choice, then.
The air crackles with raw power as Kate charges another lightning spell. Before it can unleash, Gordo throws himself to the side, the bolt erupting harmlessly behind him. Seizing her chance, Kate bolts past him, a whirlwind of determination. She bursts through the bedroom door and into the hallway, adrenaline fueling her desperate sprint. Down the stairs she races, aiming for the freedom of the open door below. But fate has other plans. Reaching the bottom, she collides with the hulking forms of the two human bandits. With a grunt, she tries to push past, but their combined strength overpowers her. Rough hands clamp down, one on her hair, the other twisting her arms cruelly behind her back. Hope flickers and dies in her eyes as the bandits haul her in, a prisoner.
(HB2)[chuckles] And just where do you think you’re going, sweetheart?
(HB1)I bet you were expecting to leave, weren't you? Sorry about your luck.
(HB2)We got her, Gordo!
(K)Let me go!
The bandits tighten their grip on Kate as a sudden clatter of footsteps echoes through the hall. Gordo descends the stairs with a measured tread, anger radiating from him like heat. Reaching the bottom, he turns towards Kate, his steps purposeful. As he closes the distance, a low growl escapes his throat. He leans down, placing himself at eye level with her and the bandits. With a dramatic flourish, he rips down his gray mask, revealing his face twisted in a furious snarl. His voice, when he speaks, is a low, menacing rumble.
(G)It’s been a while. Remember me? In the forest last fall? Merig came to your rescue and gave me this scar on my arm.
Gordo stands tall, extending his left arm out towards Kate. His gaze drops down to his bicep as he reveals a jagged three-inch scar. Kate's eyes fixate on the wound, widening in surprise. She snaps her gaze back up to Gordo, fear creeping into her eyes. Her voice hitches as she prepares to speak.
(K)You’re that bandit that cut my arm. I have a scar, too. An eye for an eye, I guess. You got what you deserve, so we’re even. Let me go!
(G)Like hell I will, you’re coming with us. Cormac is waiting to meet you.
(K)I’m not going anywhere with you filthy bandits. Merig will be here any minute from patrol, and he’ll deal with you.
(G)Go ahead and keep thinking that. He and the other guards are too busy fighting our bandits outside of the city. It was the perfect diversion so that we could get in, grab you, and get out. Also, there’s no use in screaming, either, since everyone in the city has retreated to their homes. Now be a good human and walk with us outside of the city and get on the horse.
Kate glances at Gordo with a disapproving expression, gathering saliva in her mouth before expelling it onto his face. Surprised, Gordo removes the spit with a cloth from his pocket and proceeds to raise his right hand as he strikes Kate across the face, causing her glasses to fall to the ground. In response, Kate stares back at him with anger as blood drips from her mouth. Fuming, Gordo firmly grasps Kate's face, silencing her, and speaks harshly in close proximity.
(G)You filthy human bitch, do that again and see what else happens. Let’s get her out of here before Merig comes back. Cormac will be pissed if we come back empty-handed again. And if you try escaping, I’ll do much worse, got it? And don’t even think about screaming either. Turn her around so I can tie her hands!
Gordo loosens his grip on Kate, snatching a rope as the two bandits shove her around. They force her to turn, and Gordo roughly binds her wrists behind her back with the rope. A human bandit whips off his black cloak, draping it over Kate to conceal her identity. With her subdued, they hustle her out of the open doorway, heading south. The battle in the north forest remains a chaotic scene. Guards and bandits fight fiercely, Merig's arrows finding their mark as he methodically eliminates enemies. Larry dances a deadly ballet with his swords, deflecting charging bandits, while Ashley unleashes a barrage of water cannons and other attacks from her cylinder. From behind, a bandit wielding an axe lunges at Ashley. With lightning reflexes, Larry notices the threat and races to intervene. He closes the distance in a blink and cuts the bandit down with a single, decisive stroke.
(L)Damn bandits, you stay away from my woman!
(A)Thanks, sweetheart, glad you have my back.
(L)Anything for you, my dear.
Ashley smiles at Larry as he stands guard nearby, deterring any further bandit charges as they fight side-by-side. Merig continues firing arrows, mowing through the bandit horde alongside the guards. He glances over and spots a couple of bandits trying to free their trapped comrade. Merig rushes towards them, drawing back his bow and firing an arrow. The bandits dodge the shot but manage to free the trapped bandit. The newly freed bandit flees deeper into the forest, Merig giving chase and launching arrows to slow him down. As Merig closes the gap, he aims another arrow at the bandit's legs and lets loose. The arrow finds its mark, piercing the bandit's right calf, who falls to the ground. Merig rushes over, stops, and grabs another arrow, aiming it at the fallen bandit. With the bandit on his knees in pain, he reaches behind, grabs the arrow in his leg, and snaps it in half. Merig walks in front of him. The bandit looks up with an angry expression and a menacing smile despite the pain. Merig keeps his arrow aimed and shouts, demanding to hear Cormac's response to his message.
(M)What was Cormac’s message?! And why were you so eager to get out of that trap?!
(HB)[chuckles] Cormac sends his regards, and he hopes that human of yours is staying safe in your home.
(M)What the hell is that supposed to mean!?
(HB)[smiles] Let’s just say this fight was merely a diversion. A distraction, if you will. I’d go and check on your woman if I were you.
Merig keeps the arrow trained on the bandit. The wounded bandit, with a twisted grin on his face, unleashes a maniacal cackle. Horror washes over Merig's face. The cackle chills him to the bone, but it's quickly replaced by a look of pure fury. His eyes flare crimson. Merig flings the arrow and bow back onto his back, not bothering to holster them properly. He tears back towards the battlefield, his speed a blur. As he gets closer, he screams a warning to Larry and Ashley, their attention snapping to their frantic commander.
(M)LARRY! ASH!
(L)Oh no, something’s wrong.
(A)He doesn’t look happy.
Merig doesn't break stride. He continues his mad dash through the battlefield, weaving between the clashing bandits and guards. He barrels past Larry and Ashley, heading straight for his horse. With practiced ease, he leaps onto its back, already preparing to charge back toward the city. Larry, his face etched with worry, scrambles after Merig.
(L)Merig, what’s wrong? Where are you going?!
(M)Kate’s in danger!
Larry steals a glance back at Ashley. Their eyes widen in a quick exchange before they scramble to mount their horses. The fight between guards and bandits rages on. Merig, Larry, and Ashley take control of their steeds, charging towards the north entrance with Larry and Ashley close behind. They tear through the city as Merig yells at the crowds of people to clear a path.
(M)CLEAR THE ROADS! THIS IS AN EMERGENCY!
Merig's shouts cut through the chaos, and the people turn to see him. They make way for him as well as Ashley and Larry following close behind. The trio races through the streets, leaving the square behind in a blur. They hurtle past the familiar pub, its sign a fleeting image, and turn onto the road leading to Merig's home. Streets and alleys become a blur as they push their horses on, finally reaching the street where Merig lives. Merig's eyes narrow as he sees his front door hanging wide open. He pulls his horse up short, dismounting in a flurry of movement. Bursting through the door, he throws a frantic look around. No, Kate. Fear clenches his gut as he sniffs the air, calling her name into the empty house.
(M)Kate, are you here?! Where are you?!
Merig waits impatiently for a response. Larry and Ashley burst through the doorway, their eyes scanning the house for Kate. They find the house empty and turn to Merig, who is already rushing upstairs, calling out for Kate. Larry and Ashley linger downstairs for a moment before they both dash outside to join the search. They scour the streets, checking alleyways and peering between houses, all the while calling Kate's name.
(A)Kate, please answer me!
(L)Kate, where are you hiding?!
(A)Oh god, Larry, I think she’s actually gone, I don’t see her anywhere.
(L)If that’s the case, then we were right. The bandits have her and they’re taking her to Cormac’s camp. Who knows how far that is? We could be searching for days.
(A)I don’t care what we have to do, we have to go find her!
(L)Of course, let’s go back to Merig’s place.
Larry and Ashley whirl around and dash back to Merig's house. Upstairs, Merig searches every room frantically for Kate. He bursts into the guest room, sniffing around, but finds nothing before rushing out again and sprinting down the hallway. Merig enters his bedroom, his eyes scanning frantically for Kate. He glances at the balcony and sees the doors flung wide open. He races outside and onto the balcony, searching the area, but Kate's nowhere to be seen. Merig turns and sprints back inside, dashing across the room to check the bathroom, but there's no sign of her there either. Merig bursts out of the bathroom and exits the bedroom. He stops abruptly in the hallway, his gaze drawn to the wide-open closet door. He rushes towards it, peering inside and sniffing the air. He picks up Kate's strong scent. Downstairs, Larry and Ashley search for any clues as to what happened. Ashley scans the kitchen and dining area while Larry checks the living room. Ashley spots Kate's glasses on the floor, her eyes widening as she bends down to pick them up. She stands up, panic etched on her face, and grabs Larry's attention, showing him what she found. Larry whirls around and sees Kate's glasses in Ashley's hand. His face contorts with immediate horror. Moments later, Merig charges back downstairs, his voice frantic and laced with disappointment as he sees Ashley and Larry.
(M)She’s not here, but I got a strong trace of her scent in the closet upstairs, which means she was hiding from whoever took her. I also smell three other scents that were here that aren’t hers.
(L)I smell them, too.
(A)Merig, look.
Merig quickly glances at Ashley, who appears distressed as she holds Kate's glasses. Upon noticing the glasses in Ashley's hand, tears start to well up in her eyes. Merig's eyes widen in horror as he recognizes the familiar spectacles, realizing they belong to Kate.
(M)Those glasses…
(A)Yeah, they‘re Kate’s.
(L)She’s gone. That fight out there was just a distraction, Merig. This was their plan, and we were right. They took her. And they’re probably on their way to Cormac’s camp right now and we don’t know where it is.
Ashley and Larry flinch as Merig lets out a low growl, his breathing escalating into heavy gasps. The horror on his face twists into pure outrage, his eyes igniting a terrifying crimson. His expression chills them to the bone. Ashley and Larry are frozen in terror as Merig's growl erupts into an ear-splitting roar. In his familiar, maniacal voice, he screams at the top of his lungs.
(M)THOSE FILTHY BANDITS! I’LL KILL EVERY LAST DAMN ONE OF THEM!
Merig's roar explodes through the city of Tara, echoing off the buildings as the urgency to find Kate grips them all. They burst out of the house, wasting no time in assembling a search party. Deep within the forest, miles away, three bandits ride their horses towards their hidden camp. One of them, a hulking human, holds Kate captive in front of him. Bound by ropes hidden beneath the black cloak, her magical abilities are stifled. She squirms and yells in defiance, but her struggles are in vain against their grip.
(K)Let me go!
(HB1)No use in trying to wiggle your way out, sweetheart. We’re already miles from the city, so I’m not sure where you think you’re going to go if you escape!
(HB2)He’s right, you might as well make yourself comfy!
(G)Keep a hold of her, we still have a while until we get there! Cormac is going to be very happy!
The bandit tightens his hold on Kate, fearing a fall as she races through her options. Her gaze darts down, landing on his hand hovering dangerously close. With a surge of defiance, she throws open her mouth and sinks her teeth into his flesh. A yelp of pain rips from the bandit as he loses his grip. Seizing the opportunity, Kate throws herself off the horse, tumbling onto the unforgiving ground. Scrambling to her feet, she ignores the sting of scrapes and the pounding in her chest and plunges into the dense thicket of the forest, the bandits' shouts fading behind her. Back on the path, Gordo and the other bandit hear their comrade's cry, pulling their horses up short. They whirl around to see Kate vanished, and the bitten bandit howling in pain. Fury contorts Gordo's face. He barks orders as both bandits dig their spurs into their steeds, rushing over to assess their bitten comrade.
(G)What the hell happened, where is she?!
(HB1)That bitch bit me! She fell off the horse and when I turned around, she was gone. I don’t know which direction she went in.
(G)Damnit, find her! She couldn’t have gone far. We’ll split up and I’ll sniff her out.
Kate runs deeper into the forest, her hope of losing the bandits fueling her every step. She ducks behind a large tree, seeking a brief reprieve to free herself. Crouching low, she works her wrists and hands against the ropes. After a determined struggle, the ropes loosen and finally fall away. With newfound freedom, Kate throws the rope aside and continues her desperate dash, searching for a safer hiding place. Meanwhile, the bandits weave through the trees, their frustrated shouts echoing through the woods. Kate, after a relentless run, spots a thicket of dense bushes and dives in, collapsing onto the ground with ragged breaths. Suddenly, the sound of rustling and approaching hooves pierces the silence. Clapping a hand over her mouth to muffle her gasps, Kate forces herself to breathe silently. The noise intensifies, but she remains frozen, a statue of fear. The rustling eventually fades. Tentatively, Kate peeks around the bushes, her eyes scanning the area for any sign of danger. Satisfied with the apparent emptiness, she rises slowly, cautiously uncovering her mouth as her breathing slows. One last glance reveals nothing but the dense foliage, but a sliver of doubt lingers. Just then, a violent yank on her hair shatters the fleeting peace. Gordo! His vice-like grip on her hair elicits a scream from Kate. She desperately tries to pry his fingers loose, but her efforts are in vain.
(G)[chuckles] You didn’t think I’d find you, did you? Stupid human, I followed your scent, so you weren't hard to find.
(K)Please let go of me! What the hell do you want from me?!
(G)It’s not what I want, it’s what Cormac wants.
(K)You don’t have to do this! I haven’t done anything to any of you.
(G)You’re right, it’s Merig and Larry that we want, so we need you as bait. Nothing personal, just some unfinished business. Boys! Get the metal restraints and a bigger rope, we’re gonna make sure she doesn’t get away this time!
(K)Let me go and leave us alone! Don’t hurt them, you filthy bandits!
(G)Shut up! You’re so damn loud! It seems you’re going to be a pain in my ass. Give me the metal cuffs and rope and I’ll restrain her myself. She’ll be with me on my horse this time, so she’s definitely not getting away again.
As Gordo guides Kate to the horse, he maintains a firm hold on her hair and assists her in mounting. Once she is settled, Gordo positions himself behind her as one of the bandits hands him a long rope and metal cuffs. Skillfully securing the rope around Kate's form, binding her arms tightly before fastening the metal cuffs at her wrists behind her back. Despite receiving an intense gaze from Kate, Gordo proceeds by covering her head with a hood and firmly grasping onto the reins to ensure she remains secure atop their journey to the bandit hideout.
(G)There we go. Now you’re going to be a good human. And don’t you dare think about trying to bite me, got it? I’ll put a muzzle on you if I have to. Alright, we shouldn’t have any more setbacks, let’s go!
Gordo barks orders to his horse and the other bandits as they ride deeper into the forest, their destination the hidden camp. In the city, Merig, Larry, and Ashley huddle with the guards, their faces grim as they strategize to locate Kate. Merig, wracked with worry, buries his face in his hands for a moment before addressing Ashley and Larry, his voice heavy with lament.
(M)I should've checked on her. How can I be so stupid?!
(L)Don’t beat yourself up, Merig, we've got to keep a level head. What matters is finding Kate.
(A)Larry is right. I know you're pissed right now. But we have to be rational until we find her. Then you can raise hell on those bandits.
(L)The question is, where do we start? You have her glasses. Maybe we can get some hounds out here and they can try to track her scent.
(A)Or you and Merig can track her scent since you both have strong senses of smell.
(M)She's right, our noses are stronger than dogs’ noses. I especially can track her scent since I’m around her the most and I’m more familiar with it.
(L)Alright, but who knows how far in the forest they went? Cormac could’ve moved his camp and it could be miles away.
(M)We'll search all day and night if we have to. I won't sleep until I find her. For the bandit's sake, she better be alive and unscathed.
(L)Okay then, the three of us should lead the search. We'll take at least fifty guards with us and have the rest stay here to guard the city. We don't want to be overzealous.
(M)You're right, I just hope Kate is okay. I couldn't live with myself if something happened to her. I'm sorry Ashley, I failed to protect her.
(A)No, Merig, it's not your fault, so don't blame yourself. I'm sure she's fine. If anything, it’s my fault for leaving her.
(M)It’s not your fault, either, you put a guard at my house to make sure she was safe. I’m sure he left his post when the guards were being called upon to fight that horde of bandits.
(L)Yeah, and besides, I don't think Cormac wants to hurt her. He just wants to get back at us and this is his way of doing it, so we'll come to him. He's looking for a fight.
(M)Oh, he's going to get worse than just a fight, this is going to be a goddamn war. And he better pray because not even Cichol could save him if he was still alive.
(A)Then let's prepare to leave. We'll set out before nightfall. That should give us time to gather the guards and whatever else we need. Besides, the bandits don’t hang around at night and will most likely be at the camp with Cormac since they pretty much got what they wanted.
(L)She’s right, he and the rest of the bandits will be waiting for us. But we should probably talk to the queen and maybe let her know what's going on. We'll need the proper authorization to search outside of the city.
(M)No need, I’m the commander and I have the authority, trust me. I was told by the queen herself that I could do whatever was necessary to protect the citizens of Tara. Kate is a very beloved citizen and a personal friend of the queen. I'm sure she would want us to bring her back here safe and sound.
(L)Well then, I guess that settles it. Ash, gather all the alchemy crystals you can along with your traps. We'll need it. I'll sharpen my swords or get new ones and equip some axes, too.
(M)And I plan on upgrading to a new bow and I'll equip a crossbow, too. I'll also need lots of ammunition for this battle. Let's get the guards equipped for the search.
(L)Aye, Commander, I'm on it, let's do this.
Merig, Larry, and Ashley split up. Wasting no time, they prepare themselves and the guards for the search party.