Over to one side of the street, some of the pavement has collapsed, making a gaping hole from which comes a faint scent of … the ancient Rephidim sewers. The scent alone should be fair enough warning, but until a proper repair can be made (which hasn't been done in decades), some planks are set across the hole, and some barricades in the form of empty barrels stand around it in a circle.

A wagon occasionally rolls by, and the occasional small group of pedestrians (Few walk alone at this time of night, even though the danger is minimal), but so far nobody has paid any attention to the moans of pain coming from the hole. After all, weird noises come from the sewers at times.

Underneath those planks, unseen by any so far, is a battered wolf in tattered, once-fine clothing, tangled in a jumble of broken ceramic pipes and blocks of stone.

The golden light of the candles does not show her arrival. Instead, the tell-tale click of a solid hoof upon the cobble stone streets announces her. She stops momentarily, gazing toward the tavern for which she was headed, the silence surrounding her like a black veil.

Strains of music from a lute drift on the air from the Three Thieves. It's one of those establishments that is just weathered enough to be comfortable for the adventuring sort and the working class … but not necessarily attractive to cutthroats and the like. If a brawl starts, the owner – a stern Vartan named Jakka – is quite willing to put it down.

A quiet scraping noise precedes the soft rattle of pebbles rolling across the cobbles

"Jynx! Where are we?" a kitten's voice comes quietly down the street.

From inside the hole a low, moaning sound echoes… barely to be heard by those who draw near.

"I'm thirsty," the kitten mews. "Can we get some water?"

"Almost home," comes the black Khatta's reply. "But first I need a drink too. Let's stop in here."

A little white Khatta kitten clutches tightly to the larger Khatta's hand, and nods quietly in response.

Jynx pads over to the establishment, sister in hand. o O( Great, another tavern. Hope this one's better than the last. )

Purposely quiet steps accompany the more audible scraping noise, which sounds very similar to a body being dragged.

The light music draws her closer. She has been to this tavern before and has found the people inside much nicer than those in many other places she's been. Two Khatta walk by her, but she pays them no heed as she comes upon a dilapidated hole in the sewer.

The white kitten pauses, and whispers loudly to Jynx. "Look! It's that winged lady again! Or … is she?"

Jynx stops, "Winged lady? Who?" He looks up, "Oh. No, that's not Envoy."

The moan from within the hole grows louder as the two approach, it is clear that it is no running water or vermite.

Jynx says, "Besides, she's not white like Envoy, all over that is."

A light rustle of her feathery wings accompanies her slight laugh as she hears the young kitten. They're so cute at that age. She smiles, non-threateningly – she is so much bigger than the small white Khatta.

The kitten squeals, and grabs Jynx's tail. "I hear a GHOST!"

Gwyneth turns suddenly, her ears a'flicker. She's no Eeee, but even she heard that.

"You heard that too?" she questions out of reflex, noticing the kitten's reaction.

Jynx acks! and winces at the tug. He's still a bit woozy from the fighting earlier. "Don't be silly, there's no such thing as a ghost." Then he hears the moan, "Well, at least none that I know… "

The dragging sounds approach the covered-over hole from the darker side of the street.

The kitten nods fiercely. "I heard it! I heard it!"

A slight clattering noise can be heard from the hole, as well as that same moaning.

Gwyneth says, "Whatever it is, it's near here… near… "

Jynx's brow furrows. "Its coming from over there somewhere." He pads over in the direction of the moan. "I think someone's hurt."

Gwyneth bends down, lowering herself to the ground. The moan seems to come very low…

Eve goes along, too, unwilling to let go of Jynx's tail. "Be careful!" But then, she suddenly straightens up. "But I'm not scared! Because you're a HERO!"

Gwyneth ear's prick, motioning for the child to be quiet. "Shh. I think its coming from in here."

The moans grows louder still as the party nears the hole, it is indeed from low, near the ground.

Eve squeaks, "Maybe … maybe someone's hiding behind those barrels?" She points to the ring of barrels set up as a barricade.

Jynx winces at the usual tug, and he sighs a bit. "Let go, Eve! Hero or not, I can't get over there with you pulling me!"

Eve reluctantly lets go, and drops her chin. "Oh … okay."

Jynx looks back. "Now STAY there, I'll be right back." He pads over to the barrels. "Well, doesn't seem to be anyone inside them… "

A tall figure looms suddenly out of the shadows in Jynx's path, its presence announced only by the scraping of scales across the cobbles.

Gwyneth approaches the hole; the moaning is much louder, much more obvious.

Just inside the empty barrels can be seen (and smelled) the hole that has broken in the street, revealing a shaft to the sewer system below. The smell isn't overpowering, thankfully – just noticeable.

Jynx leaps back with a startled yelp! – and then trips over his own tail, right next to Eve.

Eve squeals, and clings to Jynx like a pile of cockleburrs!

Bassai hisses, "Excuse me, and do mind watching where you are going."

A male Savanite slave follows behind the Naga, his gaze kept properly downcast, and his hands together.

Bassai leans over, looking down, eyes that seem like cold slits focusing on Jynx, "Do you need assisstance?"

Jynx tries to regain his balance, but is thwarted by a little sister. "Eve!!"

Gwyneth straightens her back up as she notices the Naga, her wings instinctively spreading out slightly to make her appear larger. She notices he is not a threat though, and even seems nice. She relaxes visibly at the stranger's arrival.

The kitten oofs, and slips free, landing on her tail on the street.

It is now certain that the hole is the origin of the pained moans. If anyone was able to see down into it, they might have noticed movement.

Jynx sighs. "Only if you know how to sedate little white kittens." He stands back up, and brushes off.

Bassai flicks out his tongue.

Gwyneth looks down towards the hole. "Whatever this noise is, it's in that filthy hole." She really has no desire to get her clothes filthy on this, her night out and away from the airship.

Bassai says, "There are ways."

Jynx stops, and just stares at the Naga. "Uhhh, yeah. Anyways, we need to see who's down there."

Gwyneth blinks, "We do?"

Jynx glances back at Eve. "You okay?"

Eve mews, "Why don't we just ask? Maybe they'll tell us."

Bassai says, "Well, perhaps you do, but it is hardly a concern of mine"

Jynx blinks, sounds reasonable.

The kitten gets up, brushing herself off. It doesn't help much. "I'm all right."

Eve cups her hands to her mouth, and pokes her head between two of the barrels. "Helllloooo! Are you a monster?"

Jynx sighs. "Well, if there is someone down there, it might be a tad bit decent to lend him a paw, don't you think? Besides, he might clog up the sewer."

Jynx pads over to the hole. "Hey, anyone down there?"

The half-Vartan sighs lightly, her conscience getting to her.

Gwyneth clops over to the hole, heavy hooves making a resounding echo. She kneels down, looking into the hole.

From Gwyneth's perspective … it's pitch black down there. She can faintly hear the sounds of moving water, punctuated by random drips.

Gwyneth shakes her head. "I can't see a thing in there."

Bassai says, "I prefer to dig around in sewers only after they've had a long enough time to lose their stench."

Jynx looks down into the hole. "Well, I can make someone out down there. He looks like a Jupani or something, and hurt too."

Gwyneth looks over at the tavern. She had dressed nicely and had planned for a nice night; instead, she's glancing down at sewer holes.

A soft, strained whisper comes from the whole which only Jynx and Eve might hear, "Hello… ?"

Gwyneth looks over at the Khatta, "You can see something in that?"

Jynx nods to the half-Vartan, "Hello? Hey! Are you alright down there?" ( Do I need to ask? )

The reply to Jynx's question is another pained moan; apparently they are not alright.

Jynx hmms – much as he'd love to stay smelling halfway good, he better help out. "Hold on just a second, I'll be right down!"

Gwyneth looks towards the Khatta, and uses a hand to brush away her long hair which has fallen over her eyes. "If you want me to help, you're going to have to do something about the darkness. I can't see a thing."

( Sure, I'll just wave my paws and a magic light fairy'll show up. ) Jynx sighs, "Eve, go grab a torch or a candle; we need some light."

Eve looks about, then pads up the steps into the Three Thieves. The sound of laughter and (bad) singing can be heard more loudly during the brief moment the door is open, before it slams shut by its own weight again.

Jynx cringes; he didn't mean in there.

Gwyneth blinks at the young kitten, and looks back at the bigger Khatta with her ice-blue eyes. "Is fire safe in here, do you think?"

A whisper again come from the hole, to fill Jynx's ears, "Who… who is there?" it asks.

Jynx looks to the crossbreed, "Well, it may or may not be, but it's theonly way we can see." He turns back to the hole, "This is Feli Kurai! Who's down there?"

Eve comes back out of the inn, squealing happily, "We're in luck! I found a nice Knight who has a lantern!"

Jynx blinks, ( Knight? ) He looks up.

The voice does not answer, besides a moan… though this not as pained as the others.

Gwyneth turns to Eve, "A lantern would be fine." She smiles at the child, asking for the lantern with her hand.

Jynx looks for the knight. ( Please, oh PLEASE… )

The lantern isn't with the kitten, but is instead borne by an armored Kattha with ornately-decorated armor, and a long, flowing cloak. A pair of swords can be seen behind the knight's head, as well as curly-to-wavy black hair. In the lamp light, the cloak looks distinctly … magenta.

Gwyneth looks up at the large knight, momentarily startled.

Jynx's heart sinks, ( I thought Eve would know by now!! ) "H-hello… "

As the knight comes down the steps … it appears the knight isn't really all that large after all, especially when standing next to the half-Vartan.

Jynx notices this knight is different; hopefully she's not one of Blossom's friends…

Bassai rises back a little, watching the knight.

Gwyneth glances back at Jynx, "You look nervous; you alright?"

Jynx says, "H-hello miss, uh, w-we seem to have a problem here… "

Jynx just gulps in reply to Gwyneth.

The Champion of Roses walks up to the scene, lantern in hand. Knights Templar aren't found very often in this part of town … not alone, unless they're on some sort of special business of the Temple. They aren't known to have a social life to speak of, after all.

The noises seem to have stopped, maybe the creature is too hurt to make any further noise, or perhaps they are listening.

Jynx scowls a bit at Eve. She should know better for meowin' out loud!

Eve smiles brightly to the Knight, and says, "Over there!" She points toward the half-Vartan/half-Rhian, the black Khatta, and the ring of barrels.

Jynx quickly turns back to the hole, "Hey! Still awake down there? We're still here!"

Gwyneth stands up, her ears attentive. Knight Templar? Just what is one doing here?

The Knight walks up … but not past the barrels. She instead hands the lantern to the kitten.

Jynx turns back to the Kattha, "Uh, th-thanks alot… "

Eve grins as she takes the lantern, and pads over to Jynx. "See? I always have good luck!"

Jynx rrrs, "Don't remind me… "

The voice whispers, almost a grumble, "I'm awake… "

Bassai says, "Ah good, one of the constabulary."

The armored, digitigrade feline regards Jynx quietly and wordlessly, her eyes hidden beneath an armored mask marked by a couple of stylized tears, one under each eye. Her armor, in keeping with her Aspect, is decorated in stylized roses, vines … and thorns.

Jynx says, "Here, let me see the lantern."

Gwyneth crosses her arms about her chest as a gust of wind flows down among all. She waits quietly. The knights are ever so quiet.

Eve gives the lantern to Jynx. "Don't drop it!" she mews.

Bassai says, "Well, we might as well make a display of good citizenship." He snaps his fingers, "Tekki *snap* fetch some rope out of your pack."

The Savanite bows his head, and swings his pack off and to the pavement, opening it up. He produces a neatly looped length of strong cord. It glitters faintly, reinforced with zolken strands.

Shakily, under the scrutinizing gaze of the knight, Jynx turns back to the hole. He shines the light downward, "What's your name?"

A Jupani's face might be seen amongst the clutter of pipes, he whispers, "Arkold… "

"You're cold?" Jynx replies, then turns to the others, "He's gettin cold, we better hurry up."

Gwyneth looks down into the darkness. "I think he said he said something about being old?"

The Savanite slave holds the rope, awaiting further direction from his master.

Bassai says, "Now, now, if we're going to do this properly. it shouldn't be left up to children, and the social pleasantries can more than wait as well"

Jynx scowls, "Children?"

Bassai says, "So, unless anyone else would rather, I'll send my slave down to fetch that unfortunate out."

The Savanite gulps, but bows his head.

Gwyneth looks rather relieved. At least she won't have to go down there. "Very wise of you," she nods to the Naga.

Jynx looks at the Savanite, whose race isn't renowned for strength. "Are you sure he can get the wolf out?"

Eve says, "Well, YOU can't go carrying him out, Jynxie. You're still hurt!" She looks worried.

The Champion of Roses just stands. She doesn't appear to be volunteering.

Jynx looks to his legs, which still have cuts all over. He sighs, "You're right."

Jynx turns to the Savanite, "Do you think you can get him out?"

Bassai says, "Hmm … That is true."

Gwyneth is the strongest, by far, of everyone here. She tries not to advertise.

The voice seems to grumble something, but the words cannot be heard clearly.

Bassai says, "Don't patronize him, of course he can. It's very simple, he goes down there, ties the rope around the person, we pull them out, then drop the rope back down and bring Tekki out afterwards."

Jynx grimaces, hearing the voice from below. "Well, then we better hurry; he might not be able to last much longer, from the way he sounds."

Gwyneth looks longingly at the tavern. "Let'sdo it. I'll help pull the rope."

Tekki looks to his master for the 'go ahead'.

Bassai looks at Tekki, the hole, and considers things.

Jynx notices Gwyneth, and hmmms. "You're the biggest here, maybe you should do it?"

Bassai says, "On second thought, Tekki, you hold the light and make sure the rope is secure."

Tekki bows his head, and goes over to retrieve the lantern.

Gwyneth looks back at Jynx. "Do what, go down there and tie a rope around someone? I wouldn't be able to help you pull him back up, not to mention you'd have to pull ME up later. I can't fly out through that hole!"

Jynx sighs, and looks around. "Well, someone has to, so I guess I will."

Bassai removes a few items of value and hands them to Tekki, then approaches the hole.

Eve squeals, "Noooo! You'll fall in!"

Gwyneth is, for the moment, glad of her size.

Jynx blinks at the Naga, "You're going to?"

Gwyneth blinks lightly – the Naga is going to do this? He is much heavier than the Savanite.

Bassai says, "Yes, I am, as I stated before, rather familiar with crawling around in sewers, and I am likely much safer in there than you or my slave."

Bassai says, "Tekki, tie the rope off around something secure."

Jynx nods. o O( And besides that, a good slave is hard to replace. )

The slave looks around, then ties the rope to a broken statue base.

Bassai waits until Tekki signals he is finished, then holding onto the rope slides over to the hole and climbs (slithers) in, head first, using the rope and available holds.

Jynx peers down the hole, watching the snake and wolf.

Bassai is partway in the hole when he says, "Light, Tekki! LIGHT! There aren't stars in here."

Gwyneth unfolds her wings ever so slightly, and clops closer to the hole, looking down into the darkness.

The interior provides many holds for the snake's winding coils, in the form of ceramic pipe and broken stone.

There is a sound of movement from within the hole; the Jupani probably just caught a glimpse of the descending snake.

The slave moves forward to hold the light a bit better over the hole.

Bassai winds through the various pipes and stones, carefully picking his way in the available light. He tries to see the Jupani in the available illumination

Bassai flicks out his tongue, if that would help.

The light is enough to show a battered-looking wolf sprawled amidst the broken stonework and ceramic. Just a bit off to one side, and his fall would have taken him all the way into the sewers below.

Jynx peers harder down the hole, "Almost there? Watch out for the drop-off!"

Bassai, with one coil firmly anchored around a hopefully firm pipe, approaches the battered wolf, "Yes I see, I am taking care." He holds the rope in one hand.

The Jupani looks up at the snake, blinking a few times at the light…

Bassai grips the wolf's arm, "Don't move; you may fall."

Jynx looks back at Eve; she's being quiet… too quiet.

Gwyneth cannot see a thing in the dark abyss. She wishes she had the eyes of the Khatta – Oh, look, there's a Jupani…

The Jupani nods slowly; he seems somewhat out of it… But you would be too in his condition.

Bassai hisses, "Can you rise up? How serious are your wounds?"

Eve just fidgets with her apron, looking worried.

The Jupani speaks quietly, "I… do not know… "

Bassai seeing the wolf's condition and not really waiting for an answer, looks for obvious signs of damage, like, a lot of blood.

Jynx whews inwardly, and turns back to the hole. "Tell us when to pull him up!"

The Jupani has bits of blood around his head and arms, a few cuts and bruises.

Gwyneth gets short images of the Jupani in the flickering light. "He doesn't look too bad. At least, he's not covered in blood."

Bassai reaches under the Jupani, raising his torso, sliding the rope underneath while not letting go of the arm. Then he drops the rope and lets the wolf lie back on it, and reaches across his chest to pull it back around the front of the torso.

"From what I can see, he's not in the best of shape," Jynx replies.

Bassai, once he is sure the rope is safely under one arm, releases the Jupani's other one, and completes the loop around the torso, and under the other arm. He cinches it down with a quick knot.

The Jupani isn't in much of a condition to argue with the movements of the snake, though the creaking of pipes under him show that his platform may not hold out much longer.

Bassai says, "You may commence pulling, gently."

The smell is a bit stronger in here, too. Good thing the lantern wasn't brought down INTO the sewer…

Jynx cocks an ear at the creaking. "Alright, we better hurry too." He grabs the rope and offers part of it to Gwyneth.

Tekki checks the rope again, just to make sure. He nods. It's secure.

Bassai backs up, getting another of his coils around something secure. Stretching forward, he pulls back, guiding the wolf out of his 'bed'.

Gwyneth blinks at the proffered piece, and after quickly adjusting her clothing, takes it in hand.

"Are you ready, sir?" she asks to the Khatta.

Jynx nods, "Okay, everyone ready? Then PULL!" He grits his teeth and tugs.

Bassai lifts the Jupani's shoulders past obstructions, and makes sure his legs don't catch in any crevices

The Jupani ergs as the rope tightens around him and is yanked upward; he begins his slow movement out of the hole.

Gwyneth pulls on the rope, heaving like she's done on airships in the past.

Jynx pulls harder, the pain in his legs from eep wounds beginning to burn.

The half-Vartan/half-Rhian, child of two races known for great strength, proves to be capable to do almost all the work herself. A few jolts … and the Jupani's battered head comes into view at the rim of the hole.

Jynx, seeing that Gwyneth is really doing most of the work, let's go of his rope and runs over to the Jupani. "Here, I got you."

Bassai watches the wolf rise up, and makes sure he has a secure grip on various things while he waits.

The battered head of the Jupani might be noticed by Eve; they have met before.

Eve blinks, squinting in the lamp light. She gasps, clapping her hands over her mouth.

Jynx ergs! These wolves are heavy!

Gwyneth stops pulling now that the Jupani is visible and Jynx has him. She holds the rope tight, however, so he will not fall back down.

Jynx starts to slip as Gwyneth stops pulling, "Uhh, we're not done yet!" He slides forward slightly.

The Jupani helps the others drag him out; when he is completely out he collapses to the street and pants softly.

Gwyneth flicks her ear over at Jynx, her wings spreading back, almost to catch the wind as she pulls back more to bring the wolf out.

Jynx falls back as the wolf pulls out. He pants for breath. o O( I need to get in shape! )

Gwyneth looks at Jynx, "Are you alright?" As for herself, she's only broken a light sweat, to her dismay.

Bassai waits, tail-tip tapping against a pipe.

Jynx nods, "Oh, except for a reopening of a few cuts, I'm fine."

The Jupani looks up from the ground and spies Eve; he waves a paw tiredly, his tail wags a bit.

Jynx looks at the battered (and smelly) Jupani, "Are you alright?"

Bassai says, "Tekki … send the rope back down."

Jynx blinks, he looks to his little sister. "Do you, uh, know each other?"

Gwyneth refolds her wings and walks quickly to what they have found. The Jupani looks hurt, but she thinks he will recover. "He looks better than I thought. I think he'll be alright."

The Jupani tilts his head to look at Jynx, almost annoyed he would ask that.

Jynx stares at the Jupani, then shakes his head. "We need to get that Naga out now."

The Jupani tries to sit up so he can lean against a wall, he looks over at Eve and smiles a bit.

Gwyneth unties the rope from the Jupani, tossing it down toward the snake.

Bassai says, "I am not 'that Naga'. My name is Bassai and I would prefer you use it over 'that Naga', if 'sir' is too much trouble for you."

Jynx hmms annoyedly, "Well, fine Mr. 'That Naga', I'm Jynx. Now grab that rope so we can get you out."

The slave frets, not quite moving fast enough to obey his master's command before Gwyneth acts.

Gwyneth walks by Jynx, whispering to him, "You know, we could leave him there… " She smiles. She is just joking.

Jynx grins at the half & half, "Not a bad idea. But I guess we better; after all there is a knight present."

Bassai catches the rope when it comes down, and holds tight. Wrapping it around his wrist, he starts to climb out on his own, sliding up the pipes, and pausing to take up slack in the rope every foot or so.

Gwyneth moves over to pull the snake out, but quickly finds that Bassai has his own plans.

The snake gets out without incident. Perhaps it wasn't all that treacherous after all … or maybe the snake genuinely IS skilled at this sort of thing.

"Guess he doesn't need any help from us." Jynx pads over to the Jupani, and kneels down. "How do you feel? And what happened, by the way?"

The knight makes no comment.

Eve mews, "Are you okay, Jynxie?"

Jynx looks back to Eve, "I'm fine, but I can't say the same for our canine friend here."

Bassai pets Tekki once on the head. "Good job, now put the rope back in your pack."

Bassai lets his gaze slowly pass over Gwyneth and Jynx, "And they ask why we feel so superior to them, when simple things like gratitude seem beyond their understanding." He then looks at the Jupani.

The Jupani lowers his head, "Eve can tell you… " He still seems quite out of it.

Eve whispers, "I think he must have passed out!" She looks at the wolf more closely. "YIPE!"

Jynx arches a brow, "Eve?" He turns to the little kitten, "How in the heck would you know what's going on?"

Eve backs up a couple of steps. "He … That's … He … " She looks to Jynx. "He's the one the lady knight hired to kidnap me! She told me so!"

This prompts a reaction from the knight, who has heretofore been doing a good impression of a statue. Her gaze shifts to Eve, then back to the wolf.

Gwyneth lets Bassai's question pass. She stomps a hoof lightly in surprise at Eve. "Kidnap?" she says, startled.

Jynx's jaw drops, "He's the one that Kidnapped you?!!" He leaps back from the Jupani as though it were an annoyed tarantula.

The Jupani nods to what Eve says, but is otherwise quiet.

Jynx takes a quick, worried glance at the knight, then turns back to the wolf, angrily. "Now I wish I had left you in that hole!"

Bassai hisses, "Well I severely hope you aren't going to drop him back in that hole after all my effort."

Jynx rrrs, "I feel like I might… "

Gwyneth looks back and forth between Jynx and the Jupani and the knight, very confused. "Who's trying to kidnap whom and why?"

The Jupani shakes his head, "That probably would be best, anyhow… " He doesn't sound like he's in much of a mood to argue… more… sad.

Eve looks confused. "But … they beat him up to take me away from him." She blinks at Jynx.

Jynx doesn't want to say much, with the knight present. "All I can say is that a certain person had my sister kidnapped, and apparently by this swine!" ( People wonder why I don't like canines… )

Jynx looks to Eve with a blink, "Beat him up to take you from him?"

The Jupani folds his paws in his lap and stares at them, wishing he still had his feathered hat, glad Eve's okay.

Gwyneth rubs her head lightly; what has she gotten herself into!

Eve nods slowly.

Bassai looks around, talking to Tekki finally, for lack of anyone else to speak to, "Obviously this is a drama for which the intricacies of the plot escape me. Also, I feel the unpleasant cling of the sewer seeping under my scales."

Jynx gives an annoyed big-brother gaze at Eve, "You better explain."

The knight looks to Jynx, and does not avert her gaze.

Eve says, "Your girlfriend! She … well … there was this ratty that came and told the wuffy to give me over, so your girlfriend could use me to get you, and the wuffy said no, and they said fine … andthenweleftandthesemeanrattiesandsnakeypooscameoutandbeathimupanddraggedme OOOOOOOFFFFFF!" She starts bawling.

Jynx feels the knight's gaze on himself, but avoids a return look, staring at Eve.

Jynx puts his paws to his ears, "Okay okay!! Stop crying!" He turns back to the Jupani, "Is that what happened?"

Gwyneth comes behind Eve, putting her hand on her shoulder. "Now, now, it's alright."

The Savanite slave fidgets a bit, looking to his master for direction. He has neatly looped up the cord again, and now sees it to be a good time to put the pack back in order.

The Jupani nods softly.

Jynx sits down, and sighs. "Then I guess I owe you an apology, even if I am confused."

Bassai looks at Tekki, and then at the tavern. He takes out a few coins and hands them to the Savanite, "Go in there, and obtain a room. If they can't understand you, come back and I will give you a note. Get one large enough for me, with some space for you."

Bassai says, "Also inquire about their washing facilities."

Eve just dashes over and clings to Jynx. She seems as confused as her brother.

The Jupani speaks, "No… it is I who owe you, and your dear sister, my apology… As Eve has told you, I did indeed kidnap her… but after some thought… I… it does not matter… "

Jynx clears his head, and looks up at the mention of the tavern. "I guess we should clean you up too," he says to the wolf, "After all, we don't need you getting sick."

The knight's gaze now rests on … the Savanite … and then to the Naga. Her hands begin moving.

Jynx hefts his sister up on his shoulders, and stands, walking over to the Jupani. He offers a paw, "We can sort this out better when we've eaten something."

Bassai looks at the Jupani, "I would like to introduce myself; my name is Bassai. As well, as everyone seems to be realizing, it would perhaps be better to relocate this discussion inside.

Jynx nods to Bassai, then looks back to the lupine. "Besides, you need a bath."

Bassai looks at Jynx, "Also, do you intend to press charges?"

The Jupani nods and takes Jynx's hand, he almost smiles. When he is up he looks to Bassai and says, "I am Arkold; let us move inside… "

Jynx looks back to the Naga, "Right now all I want to do is press my head against a pillow." He helps the wolf up, and starts off to the inn, with Eve on his shoulders.

Arkold walks with Jynx; he seems a bit happier than he was before.

Bassai gives a glance around to ensure that Tekki didn't accidentally leave something out of the pack, o 0 { He hasn't yet, but it never hurts to be safe }, then follows.

Jynx looks back at Gwyneth, "You coming, too?"

Tekki hasn't failed in his duties. Once again, his packing skills prove to be quite competent. He follows subserviently behind his master … pausing only to retrieve the lantern and return it to the waiting knight.

Jynx says, "Never caught your name by the way. Eve! Quit fidgeting!""

Eve mews, "Sorrrrrrrry!"

Gwyneth follows Jynx. "About time. My name's Gwyneth, by the way. And yours?"

Jynx attempts a tired smile, "Feli Kurai. Glad to meet you."

Arkold glances over at Eve; she seems to be just fine. He looks forward again and sighs softly.

Gwyneth smiles, "Charmed, even if we didn't meet in the nicest of places!"

Jynx chuckles, and nods. He looks to the wolf, "That sigh confirms it, you did have a run in with my sister."

Bassai says, "I thought that was a general reaction to all children."

Jynx says, "I'd know that I've-had-the-unfortunate-luck-to-meet-Eve-Kurai's-good-luck sigh anywhere."

Gwyneth glances sidelong at Jynx, brushing a hair out of her eyes. "Luck?"

Arkold glances to Jynx, then looks forward again.

Jynx just sighs to Gwyneth, "You'll find that in my family, luck is a common phrase." He glances back at Eve with a grimace.

Eve smiles innocently.

Gwyneth flicks an ear, "Will I, Feli?" She hides a grin.

Bassai says, "Did you obtain a room, Tekki?"

"Oh, you might," Jynx replies knowingly.

Tekki nods to his master.

Bassai nods, hissing, "Good … good."

Bassai looks to Gwyneth and Jynx, "Well, thank you for your assistance in rescuing this individual," then to Arkold, "… and I'm afraid I must retire right now – Arkold, is it?"

Jynx nods to the Naga, "And thank you, too. Sorry for being a sour-puss back there."

Bassai says, "Yes, well, perhaps we can discuss business ventures at a later date, Arkold; you seem a person of means."

The Vartan barkeep scowls at her patrons, polishing a glass that doesn't look like it needs any more polishing.

Arkold nods, "Yes – Arkold." He looks for his money pouch; it is gone as he expected.

Bassai says, "And I have a few things worth exploring."

Gwyneth nods to Bassai, accepting his thanks. "And thank you for yours."

Bassai nods to Jynx, "Of course, quite all right."

Arkold nods to Bassai, "I am not sure what help I can be to anyone, at the moment."

Jynx yawns, "And I have a few things worth dreaming. Come on Eve, let's go get a room."

Eve nods and yawns tiredly. "Are we gonna go see Mama and Papa soon?"

Bassai says, "There are many coils on the great snake, Arkold; one moment is not necessarily an eternity."

Jynx nods to Eve, and stifles another yawn. "Tomorrow. It's too late right now."

The Knight stands next to the bar, ignoring how the Vartan is staring at her armor.

Gwyneth looks at all the little roses and thorns, and how they gleam in the light.

At last, the Knight Templar moves … and walks toward Jynx.

Arkold sighs and looks at the door, speaking to Bassai, "Perhaps… but as of now I need to go find some place to sleep; I have no money."

Jynx walks to the Vartan to get a room, then freezes as he senses the knight coming his way…

Bassai says, "Tekki, give him enough for a room for a night, then come upstairs."

Gwyneth stays quite away from the Vartan owner.

The slave bows to his master, then goes to the Vartan barkeep to pay for a room.

Bassai says, "I must retire now; the night's cold does not sit well with me."

The Vartan snaps her attention away from the knight, at the sight of the shiny coin. She scrawks at the Savanite, then follows his pointing finger to the wolf. "Sure," she squawks.

Arkold pauses and turns around. "I thank you, sir, for surely I am not deserving," he says to Bassai.

Bassai says, "I'd hardly crawl down a hole to rescue you, only to have you die in the gutter above it. Think nothing of it."

Gwyneth walks over to Arkold and Bassai. "Now, what was this about kidnappings?"

The Knight Templar stands … right beside Jynx, staring at him. In the better light in here, her eyes can be seen. They're deep brown … almost black.

Arkold shakes his head, "A long story, one I am not proud of… " He looks at the Knight Templar, seeming to notice her for the first time.

( Great, just what I needed, ANOTHER one of these loonies after me! ) Jynx turns to face the Kattha with a forced smile, "Oh, h-hello m-miss. I thought you h-had gone back to the Temple by now… "

Over at the fireplace, a foppish-looking fox merrily plays on a lute, singing along with several drunk patrons of the establishment.

The Knight looks at Jynx, then points at Eve … then at Arkold … then turns back to Jynx, and taps him on the underside of the chin, in a manner that often means, "Out with it."

Gwyneth humphs. As usual she's the last one to know anything.

Jynx begins to back away, "Uhh, w-well, you see… It's like this… " He gulps. If she finds out, she'll cleave him in two…

The door to the inn opens. A rat comes dashing in, gasping for breath. He stops abruptly, sees something that causes his eyes to go wide … and then dashes right back out before the door closes, shouting to someone outside.

Eve mews, "Jynxie … I feel … sort of funny." She frowns.

Gwyneth turns, noticing the rat. "What was that all about?" she questions, to no one in particular.

Jakka's gaze goes to the door. She reaches for something underneath the counter.

Arkold looks panicked, but tries to keep himself calm.

Bassai waits for Tekki to indicate where the room is, then follows.

"Not now, Eve!" Jynx whispers loudly. "W-well, My sis-sister was kidnapped, an-and… "

Jynx continues to back up, a thick sweat covering him, and a feeling as though he were about to throw up.

The Knight does not let her gaze pass from Jynx. She looks to be very quiet … and very patient.

Bassai slides off to his room, and bed, leaving all the others to solve their problems without his guidance.

Arkold looks about as worried as Jynx; he tries to move off to the side out of the Knight's range.

"A-and this-s knight p-paid to have it d-d-done… " tears spring to Jynx's eyes. "I-I guess they beat up th-that wolf a-a-and… "

The door opens again. It's that rat again. He grins ferally, then steps aside … as an armored feline walks into the main room.

Gwyneth looks over at Arkold, suddenly realizing how nervous he seems. "Are you alright? What's wrong?"

THIS armored feline … well, there's no mistaking her, for a certain black Khatta who should know her all too well. Her stance is plantigrade, rather than digitigrade. Her armor is white, but not patterned with the intricate designs that mark that of the Champion of Roses. But, still, she also has a magenta cape, and two swords over her back.

Jynx looks over at the door shakily, even though he already knows who it is. No longer able to go on, he shuts his eyes and braces himself, tears streaming down his face.

Three other knights of similar garb walk in – two of them Kattha, one Khatta. Aside from that detail, they're practically interchangeable.

Arkold looks at the door, then Gwyneth with a look of how can you ask that.

Gwyneth blinks over at the entrance, seeing a veritable garrison of troops entering. Just what *is* going on here?

The first knight to walk in draws her swords. She spares a glare at Arkold, but then looks toward Jynx.

Jynx huddles down to the floor, shivering almost violently now.

Jakka puts away the crossbow she was holding. She looks like she's about to get sick.

Arkold begins walking backward slowly.

The Khatta knight walks over to Jynx, swords ready. Then … she halts. "Mistress! You've returned!" She bows at the waist, swords at her side.

Gwyneth is no stranger to trouble. Rougher times in the past have gotten her over that. She looks startled at the Khatta knight's exclamation.

Arkold notices he does not have his pistol or dagger either – wonderful. He looks at the Knight in confusion.

Jynx, still shivering, looks up, eyes wide.

Eve mews, "It's BLOSSOM!" She points accusingly at the white Khatta knight. "You MEANIE!"

Gwyneth looks like she could probably use a drink. No way she's getting anywhere near the bar, though.

The music has all stopped now. All eyes are staring at the odd confrontation. A few are shuffling toward the door … but then see the threesome of female knights standing a bit too close to it, apart from the two standing by Jynx.

Five knights in a bar. This can't be good.

Arkold looks over at Eve. He begins to move toward her, getting between her and the knights. He is quite nervous, if really confused.

The Champion looks to Blossom … and stares.

Blossom at last says, "Thank you for capturing this criminal. With your permission, I will now dispatch of him."

Gwyneth perks her ears up. ( Criminal? ) she thinks. ( You never know who you meet these days on the street. )

The Champion pauses a great deal longer … and then reaches out … and taps the underside of Blossom's armored muzzle. It's the same exact gesture as that which she used with Jynx.

Jynx stares horrified at Blossom; he can't even argue against his being called a criminal, because of the terror.

Arkold looks back and forth between the two knights; hearing their words, he moves closer to Jynx.

Eve huddles close to Jynx. "I'm not going to let you hurt my BIG BROTHER! He's a HERO! He's not a criminal! You MEANIE!"

Arkold looks to Eve and kneels down to whisper to her, "Eve… If they try to hurt your brother, you take him and run, alright?"

Blossom stammers, "I … I … He … " She points at Jynx, then looks at her belt, from which hangs a broken wooden chain. "He destroyed a holy tome! By fire! He is guilty of blasphemy … and an attack upon a member of the Knights Templar!"

The Champion of Roses looks back to Jynx.

The half-Vartan/Rhian leans against a wall. ( Oh, this is good. )

Jynx, eyes full of tears, looks at the Champion. "Sh-she was going to hurt my sister, and kill me!"

The Champion of Roses looks to the frightened kitten, then back at Blossom.

Blossom stammers, "I – You don't understand! He – He's cursed! I know all about him! And it's the will of the First Ones that he be disposed of! I have it right … " She grasps at an empty place at her belt … "… here."

Arkold stands up, "I believe this Blossom hired me to kidnap this young girl… " he says to the Champion of Roses.

The Champion glances to Arkold, points at Eve, then looks back to Blossom again.

Jynx watches the other felines shakily.

Blossom takes a step back. "Mistress! Surely you – "

Arkold looks to the Champion of Roses, "Yes, I… I could not do it… I cannot believe anyone would hurt such a darling young girl… I tried to defend her," he glances to Blossom, "but I was attacked."

Tears begin to well up in Eve's eyes, as she looks at the wolf. "It's true," she mews. "They beat him up to take me away. And if Jynx didn't give himself up, she was going to have me take his place!"

"MISTRESS!" cries out the Khatta knight, who bows her head.

The Champion of Roses reaches up to her mask … and makes a gesture as if she were removing the straps. But she does not. Her gaze does not depart from Blossom.

Jynx begins to shake a bit less, and the tears dry somewhat.

Arkold looks at Eve. He smiles softly, then looks back at the Champion of Roses.

Blossom, with shaky hands, reaches up to her mask.

Jynx, now filled with astonished curiosity, watches.

Gwyneth really looks like she probably could use a drink. Or maybe two, now.

The knight takes both swords to her off-hand, then removes her armored mask … revealing a black-furred face. Disturbed by the removal of her helmet, her tresses spill forward over her face, and she brushes them aside.

Jynx blinks; so THAT'S what she looks like.

The Champion of Roses looks to Jynx, then…

… smacks Blossom across the face with a gauntleted hand.

Jynx flinches!

Arkold winces…

The Khatta knight staggers sideways, smacking against the bar. Her swords clatter to the bar floor, and she slides down after them.

Jynx shakes his head; is this for real?

Gwyneth blinks. That looked like it hurt.

Blossom struggles to get up … but cowers at the sight of the Champion standing over her. A trickle of blood runs from her nose.

Arkold looks back at the Champion, quite expecting the same treatment.

Jynx watches open mouthed, and feels a bit sorry for Blossom, even though she DID try to do him in after all…

The Champion doesn't seem inclined to oblige Arkold's fear … just yet. She stoops down and picks up one of the fallen swords. She then, holding it by the blade, hands it to Jynx. With her other hand, she motions him to rise.

Jynx blinks confusedly, then takes the sword. He stands up shakily, and looks to the Champion.

Eve gasps! She lets go of Jynx … and hides behind the counter.

The Champion says nothing, gestures nothing. She only turns abruptly, her magenta cape swirling about her … steps over the fallen Khatta, and walks toward the door and the other knights. One of them opens the door for her … and they all march out to the street.

Jynx watches the knights leave. He then blinks at the sword, and glances over to Blossom, eyes wide with a frightened confusion.

Arkold blinks and watches the Champion go… his muzzle parted in a look of amazement.

Blossom gazes no higher than Jynx's feet. She offers him no explanation, either.

One of the drunken Skreeks cries out, "Whoo hoo!"

"Eve, c-come here," Jynx says shakily, as he motions for his little sister.

Eve peeks around the corner, looking at Jynx with frightened eyes.

Jynx, equally frightened, motions again for the kitten.

Arkold slumps into a chair, holding his head in his paws. He just sits there rubbing his face.

Blossom spits out, "What are you waiting for? Don't tell me you're going to give me some sort of 'I can't go through with this.' I'm dead. It's your job to make it official."

Jynx makes no reply, and doesn't even acknowledge the former knight. He just waits for Eve.

Eve sniffles, wiping at her nose … then dashes over to Jynx, clinging to him. In a wobbling voice, she mews, "I wa-nt to se-ee Ma-ma and Pa-pa… "

( Three drinks ) the halfbreed thinks.

Arkold moves his head out of his paws to watch the sorry sight of the fallen Knight, and Jynx.

Still shaking, Jynx hefts his sister up into his arms, and tosses the sword to the ground. "I think it's time I told Dad we're okay… " With that, he turns, and heads directly for the door, carrying his sister and not making a sound.

The fallen knight's face falls forward, into her arms, hiding it from any other eyes. She can't be any older than Jynx.

Arkold watches Jynx leave then turns to the fallen knight, he stares at her for some time.

Jynx pads out the door, down the street, and off in the direction of home. It's been a long time.

The Vartan barkeep still looks reluctant to breathe easily. She looks over to Gwyneth, and scrawks, "Drink?" She adds. "On the house."

Gwyneth jumps back about three feet, at the Vartan's speech.

Gwyneth says, "Um, please. Thank you."

Arkold gets up from his chair, the pain in his leg from being pushed into the hole starting to kick in. He limps over to the knight and picks up the sword Jynx dropped to use as a cane, but before he walks off he looks at the knight and mutters, "Bit of bad luck, hmm?" and with that, he limps off to his room.

The Vartan hmphs at Gwyneth's reaction, and pours her a drink.

A trench-coated figure rises from one of the corner tables, and approaches the fallen Templar.

Gwyneth nervously gets her drink. Shaking slightly, she sips at it.

The fallen Khatta mutters something under her breath about "… possession of… " and then coughs again, half-rising from the floor.

The figure leans over to tap the Khatta on her armored shoulder. Its face is obscured by a large floppy hat, with just the tip of a blunt white muzzle showing.

The dark Khatta looks up at the figure. "YOU… " the warrior hisses.

Envoy blinks under the hat. "Will you come with me to the Temple?"

The black Khatta swallows, then fumbles for the remaining blade … and sheathes it. "What does it matter?" she mutters. "Tell me, has your father any more of his errands for us – me to run?"

Envoy blinks. "I was not told of your previous work. Perhaps you could tell me about it?"

The Khatta squints at Envoy. "Perhaps not."

Envoy says, "Will you accompany me then? Where else do you have to go?"

The Khatta warrioress picks up her fallen mask and looks as if she's about to put it on … then instead just clasps it to her belt. "Nowhere," she says quietly.

Envoy smiles, "I'm sure Officer Nimiss will be able to arrange something for you."

The dark Khatta staggers and reaches out for the counter top. She chokes, then coughs, "Of … of course."

Envoy waits patiently for the ex-knight to compose herself.

The Khatta straightens up, doing her best to regain some dignity. She wipes some of the blood off her muzzle. "Lead on."

Envoy nods and leads the way out of the bar…

Only after Envoy and the Khatta have left … does the music start back up again, along with plenty of loud, off-key, drunken singing.

Gwyneth watches them leave, and with a flourish finishes her drink. This night has turned out ever so much more interesting than she expected.