This is a private rp for Isaac Levis and myself. Please do not post in here, though feel free to read.

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The Story thus far...X

After wiping his sword clean on the back of one of the highway men Gimu bowed to the owners of the carriage that had been stopped. A wealthy couple stood there still shaking from the encounter, two dead guards at their feet and an injured carriage driver at their side. The man eventually spoke up as Gimu helped them back into the carraige. He offered a reward for their thanks and Gimu nodded in appreciation, accepting the coin that he offered. They expressed their gratitude and eventually turned their concern over to the carriage driver. Gimu offered to drive the carraige the rest of the way and let them rest in the back even though he was actually traveling in the opposite direction. Relectantly they accepted his offer for help and soon Gimu was whipping the reigns for the horses to go.

At the end of the day Gimu was handed a bag of coins and told to stop by the shops if ever in town again. After bowing low once again Gimu started to head towards the inn eager to strip off the heavy chainmail, down a cold brew, and head off to sleep. Once inside the Tavern / Inn owner greeted him recognizing that he had just checked out earlier that morning. Gimu agreed to tell him the tale after getting more comfortable. He was given the same room as before and Gimu quickly reappeared downstairs and sat at the bar to begin telling the story. Near the end of the story those at the bar were leaning in to hear the descriptions of the end of the battle and by now Gimu had started to tell the story louder so that all could hear.

"-Then I raised up my great sword and slashed the last man from chin to toe before cleaving into his side. Those five thugs really never stood a chance. I bet the only reason they were able to down those highered guards was the meer suprise factor. After that I accepted the coin offered to me, of course, and even guided the carriage to town on account that their driver was injured.", Gimu wrapped up with a satisfied smile as he drank deeply from his ale.

Comments and questions followed all of which Gimu was used to. The tavern had become a busy place since he began the story. Looking around now one could see that most of the tables were full. The town regulars and those visiting had all come since the sun had finished setting for their evening ale.

Jade spurred her mount on to a full gallop. It was taking her longer than expected to reach town, as the sun had already sunk below the horizon and she had yet to arrive. Guiding her gelding through the woodlands deftly, she made some head way. A few minutes of ride put her within sight of the village’s lights. She pulled her mount to a stop, gazed over the sight, and then swore under her breath. The town gate was already closed. Just what she wanted, having to explain to a pair of underpaid guys with swords they probably didn’t even know how to use why she was trying to enter the town after daylight hours. And being a woman in man’s clothes was not going to help her case.

She sighed and nudged her gelding forward once more. Keeping him at a light canter, she directed him back out on the main road following it the remainder of the way. She slowed the gelding to a walk as she approached the village gate. Standing up on the fortified wall, one of the guards leaned over the parapet to call down to her.

“Oiy, you there! State your business.”

Jade rubbed her face in annoyance. She glanced up at the pair of faces that bore down on her with their questioning eyes while keeping her hood up. With an expression of non-amusement, she studied them. One looked like your average middle-aged village man dressed up in guards clothes. She guessed he’d seen perhaps too many winters. The other, much younger and the one who called down to her, looked itching for a fight. Perfect. He started to call down to her again, revealing his impatience when she cut him off.

“I’d like to stay at the inn.” She explained.

“Do ya? Well, what if I say the inn is full, stranger?” The young on questioned, clearly deliberately mistrusting the traveler. Another sigh poured from Jade’s mouth, this time a rather annoyed one.

“I’d like a meal then at least. And I’ll find a bed with a local. Or would you have me sleep in my tent within the village walls?” That got a smirk out of the older guard, his eyes dancing between the two of them with interest.

“Well who said you’d be getting in, stranger? A bit odd to be coming in so long after the sun be setting, don’t’cha think?”

Jade’s eye twitched as her expression started to show how pissed off she was becoming. Oh yes, because not even a full hour is a terribly long time especially in mid-autumn when the days continually grew shorter.

“Just let me in.” She demanded haughtily. When the younger guard started calling back, trying to mock her with some comment about her voice being ‘odd’ for a /man/, the other guard stopped him.

“Cut it out, Grey.” He reprimanded his comrade then called for the guards below to open the door for her. “Oh, traveler. The inn should still have a few rooms available, so forget the young’n’s non-sense.” He explained as Jade road into town. She nodded her understanding and gave him a slight wave to display her appreciation.

She dismounted and guided the gelding to the inn’s stables. Tossing a coin to the stable boy, she wearily made her way inside. A servant was near by and gave her welcome, to which she gave a tired nod. They also politely explained that she could not enter so heavily armed, but that they’d be glad to take her weapons back to her mount (if she had one). She then took to unclipping her shoulder sheath which held her great sword and her two short swords from her hip along with a bow and small quiver. The original servant had to call for more aid to carry the heavy weapons out to Jade’s horse. On their way out, Jade slipped them each a coin. This of course was met with gracious thanks.

Now mostly unarmed, Jade turned her attention to the tavern. It seemed that there was a lot of focus centered around one man who sat near the bar. She could hear him speaking loud and figured he was telling some type of story. Uninterested, Jade looked for an empty seat, preferably alone. Her hand rubbed her face when she came across none. So, for the time being she resigned herself to getting a mug and hot bread from the bar counter which she’d consume standing.

After his story was coming to a close the crowd around the bar thinned out a little following some small conversations. For the entertainment the barkeep filled up Gimu's mug and set it back down infront of him, "You earned it." he simply explained as he went back to polishing another mug.

Out of the corner of his eye Gimu noticed that a new person had approached the bar. They appeared to be a little ragged from travel and as it happens a seat opened up next to him with the telling of the story at a close.

"Come and sit.", Gimu called over to the hooded man, "There is some room now."

He threw the peices down for Jade's first drink despite not even having a confermation that she was actually going to sit down.

Jade had just received her order when she heard the story teller’s voice call to her. She glanced at him slightly, enough for her to see him, but not enough to show much of her features under the cover of her hood. Her stare was rather blank, but clearly showed her disinterest. Though, she figured him to be the type that didn’t take ‘no thanks’ as an answer. So a refusal would only make the current, calm situation escalate. And Jade was just too tired for that. She allowed herself a moment to remind herself how much she hated her life at times. Like right now.

Grabbing the heated bread loaf and the large mug of ale, Jade walked over to the empty chair. A thought struck her as she sat down; how did a chair right next to the story teller become empty? That would be her luck. After settling in she took a long draft of her ale, not seeming to care if her ‘friend’ noticed or not. Though once she set her mug down, she slid the man’s coins back to him. “I’ve got my own weight, thanks.”

Gimu noted that dull stare and came to the conclusion that this person must really be tired. Why else would they hold themselves like he does and hold about that kind of look in their eyes?

"I don't doubt your ability to pay for yourself.", Gimu explained, sliding the money forward again, "Just a friendly gesture, from one tired traveler to another. I know you are tired from wherever you traveled. So let me buy you a cold mug."

Gimu offered the drink all with good intentions. He just wanted to make sure that this person sitting next to him knew it was not a charity case act. Though if refused again Gimu would pull back his money. He was insistant but would allow the stranger to make their own choices.

What an arrogant prig. She thought to herself. Common courtesy and kindness were wasted on her, for these were things that she never had much of in her life. So, whenever they /did/ happen, she never trusted it to be genuine. But she wasn’t about to keep pushing. She /was/ tired. Exhausted more like. Taking another long gulp from her drink, Jade turned her gaze back towards the man. She donned a light smirk.

“Heh, yeah. You’re right. I am tired.” …I’m tired of people like you. Scratch that. I’m tired of people. Jade swore inwardly when she didn’t keep all the sarcasm out of her voice. She hoped he wouldn’t notice, or at least not take it the way she intended it. She downed the rest of her ale then let the bar keep top her back off on the man’s tab.

Breaking their gaze Gimu took a swig from his ale finishing what was left in the glass. He pushed the ale forward to signal that he wanted it refilled when the bartender was free and leaned back on the barstool stretching his arms while he did so careful to not hit anyone in the process.

"Arn't we all tired?", Gimu started and after a slight pause continued in a lower voice, "Some stranger you don't even want to talk to buys a drink for ya and continues to blab on about something you don't give a shit about."

He paused again and glanced her direction with a raised eyebrow to see if 'he' changed at all from that comment before speaking up again, "You probably wanted a table in the corner to yourself. Sorry that was not available."

Gimu put some more coin on the table, enough for two drinks, "I won't be one of those idiots that blaber about nothing. Just let me buy this last drink for talking so much and then we can talk as little or as much as your feeling up to."

Jade snapped her intense gaze back at him at hearing that murmured comment. If he had intended on her not hearing it, well he was most unlucky. Jade’s hearing was borderline mage-like in its sensitivity. Her face reflected her confusion. That was an odd comment coming from someone that was pretentious. Not only that, but it struck a cord close to her own heart as if he were reading her mind. That notion sent a rush of panic through her system. Was he a telepath? She eyed him suspiciously before slowly reaching for her fresh mug and cautiously taking a small swig.

Placing the mug back down, Jade stared down into the amber, froth covered liquid. She paused debating how to answer. She was still certain that he didn’t really care for her enough to mean what he said on not having to talk too much—just another way to look good—but it was tempting to actually take him up on it. But instead she smirked a bit at him. Alright, she’d play along. “Tch…I did, but not much to do about it now. And I suppose I’m in akin company?”

It was not that he really felt the same way. Gimu often did not mind talking to others even after a long journey but there have been some that simply carried on far to long. The least he wanted was to be considered among their numbers. He drank deeply from the ale after it was refilled and watched as the barkeep slid the coins away from him before turning to look to her with his dark green eyes.

"Well I guess you are. I am not much of a table by myself person to tell the truth, but rambling idiots or want to be tough guys make me wish that I chose the table in the corner more often.", Gimu explained before deciding to give up his name, "Name is Gimu."

He decided not to ask for 'his' because as far as Gimu knew that if he wanted to give his name he would. Gimu turned his attention back to his ale and nursed it down some, keeping his ear open for a response.

Jade's smirk grew at that, despite remaining unsure as to whether she could really trust him or not. Not that she trusted many people to begin with. Though, this guy seemed pretty harmless for the time being. She nodded a bit when he offered his name. She responded in kind while looking at him with her own intense jade-green eyes, "Jade."

"Nice to meet you.", Gimu offered as he moved his eyes away from her's and back to his ale. Unsure whether to persue more conversation Gimu left it at that for a good minute while he devoted his attention to the rapidly disappearing ale. Despite having about five or six Gimu was hardly feeling the effects. Again he put more coins on the table to cover his next drink finishing it to near empty before talking again, "You just passing through here or staying for buisness? Or perhaps not at liberty to discuss." After that last part he put on a smirk and downed the rest of the mug.

Jade nodded her agreeyance then went back to her own drink. She enjoyed the comfortable silence that established between them...though she quietly noted how many drinks the large man beside her was consuming. It impressed her that he wasn't displaying the affects of the level of intoxication that would bring upon someone normally. Though, Jade of course kept these observations to herself. When he spoke up again after their few minutes of quiet. She smirked briefly before responding, "Tch...Well mostly just passing through. But there are a few supplies I need to restock on. Yourself?" Her head was turned towards him, and this time with how the lamp light cast, her face was more visible and clearly more feminine than how she carried herself.

Gimu was releaved to hear the stranger respond to his question. It was good that he was not just blown off. This guy seemed like a pretty interesting fellow if he would get to talking. Though there was something off about his apperance but Gimu could not quite put a thought to what that might be. Also it was strange that he kept his hood up but Gimu just figured that was part of his character and let it slide though now he had some questions nagging at him. "Actually I was just leaving when I saved a merchants life and road back here with him. I was just passing through really I am on my way to see my family back in the south." Gimu wet his lips again with the ale after talking.

Jade nodded. For some reason, she found questions forming in her mind that slipped right out her mouth. "It warmer down there still? Heh, not really ready for winter to set in myself." She downed the rest of her third mug and slid it away to cue the bartender that she was done with it. Done with her drinks, she tore a piece of bread from her loaf and leaned back in her stool.

Gimu smiled a bit and finished off his remaining drink, "Well from what I have heard yes. Ocassionally a letter my family sends actually reaches me and they say it is one of the hotest summers they have been through. Not looking forward to that.", after thinking for a bit Gimu decided to continue conversation, "You headed out tomorrow or spending a few days in a real bed?"

"Heh. I suppose I'd rather be chilled than really hot. And uh, I hadn't really thought about it. I was planning on heading upways of Norfolk for a job I've been told about. But if you know of something with higher purse down your ways, I'm all ears." Alright. So this guy wasn't so bad; fairly tolerable to say the least. Jade let herself get a little more comfortable around him, letting her posture sag just a bit more as she ate her bread. Her hood started to get a bit stuffy, and she had the nagging urge to take it off but she hesitated. Not that she cared if Gimu discovered her gender, in fact she doubted he'd treat her much differently which she liked. Just she hated how other men always found their way over to her to make passes at her, or to make their disapproval of her known.

The change in 'his' posture was noted and Gimu inwardly relaxed. He had been attempting to make sure not to put off his new acquantence. Thinking back to his last letter Gimu remembered receiving a list of current jobs he had asked them to send but more importantly a request for him specifically for a unadvertised job."Yeah actually I have a job I might be taking there after visiting my family. Though I will of course need to see your skills in combat first but you strike me as one who would not be pushed over easily.", though he was partially just being flattering Gimu did have a lingering feeling that this stranger could hold their own in a fight, "I can not tell you an amount off hand but it was a request that was not put up on a looking for help board. It seemed that they were calling in people they knew were of higher quality to get it done. I am sure one more would be welcome."

Jade raised her eyebrow at that, her interest piqued. She nodded. "That sounds fine by me. Would testing me mid-day tomorrow be alright?" She asked. When he conveyed his acceptance to those terms, she reached her hand out to shake on it. Her hand was a just a tad small if one thought her to be a man, but other than that it had all the usual wear of one who'd been on the road long and hard. After this, Jade downed the scant remainder of her ale and finished her loaf. Leaving the proper amount of coin on the table, Jade got up to leave. "Til then." She added before departing the tavern for her room.

* * *
The next morning came quietly. Jade sat, already having been up for a couple of hours before sunrise, cross-legged on her bed lost in mediation. It was her daily morning ritual that she'd been carrying out for the past ten years of her life. It helped her get her mind straight for the new day ahead, and it helped maintain over her concentration--to which she needed to keep sharp and honed for her very particular style of battle. And today, having a test of strength at hand, it was particularly important to be ready. Though once the sunlight reached through her window from the wooden floor to hit the edge of her bed, her eyes peeled open. It was time to get through the day's errands.

Clambering down the stairs, Jade glanced around the empty tavern. She then made her way over by what seemed to be the servant's entrance to the kitchen. An old habit she'd picked up early in life, she managed to haggle a couple of heated sweet rolls in exchange for some coin and the promise of her removal from the kitchen. With her breakfast in hand, she went to check on her mount. The black coated gelding, snorted when she approached. He'd been lazily picking at his own breakfast of hay. "Morning Oran" Jade greeted him stroking his forehead. She got busy grooming him, and scrubbing her saddle and tack.

An hour later, Jade was out on the waking streets. She headed over to a few food vendors and restocked on some rations. Her attention then turned to picking up a few micsellanous items: polish for her saddle and tack, more mending materials, some treats for Oran, and a new whet stone for her weapons. That left the last item on her list, to see about getting her great sword repaired. She hunted around for a blacksmith. Eventually, she came across one and asked about what she could do quickly for her nicked blade. The smith examined it with a care-trained eye and sighed before handing it back to her. He explained that there wasn't much he could do without at least a full day to work. Though after hearing Jade's sigh, he offered some temporary solutions. Jade accepted them with a nod and a couple of coins.

Done with her day's errands, she glanced skyward. Judging by the angle of the sun, she still had an hour or so before mid-day. So, she headed back over near the inn they had stayed and leaned up against the outer wall. Being so warm that day, she pulled her hood down and brushed the little beads of sweat from her brow.

The morning came all to quickly as it usually did for Gimu. His body clock woke him as the sunlight dipped in through the window and he sighed in annoyance. Reminding himself that he had already prepared his horse Veshna for travel the day before Gimu rolled back over onto his side pulling the covers up over his head in an attempt to hide from the light.

Without realizing he was even asleep Gimu stirred from under the covers to the cry of an empty stomach. Reluctantly he pushed himself out of the bed and went to the bucket of water he prepared last night. Using a small blade he trimmed down the hair that had grown in from the night before. Not that his face was silky smothe just his facial hair stood a tad less taller than before nothing more than meer stubble now.

Giving a large yawn he slowly donned the chainmail tunic he had become most accustome to after dressing and double checking his pack for all his belongings. A worn green tabard was thrown on over all that along with a traveling cloak. Last was a set of plates that arranged themselves from his right fingertips to his shoulder acting as a sort of sheild from slashing weapons.

After hulking down the stairs Gimu sat at the closest table. Someone was immediatly with him to take his order and Gimu ordered a breakfast, or lunch, fit for two. Leaning back in his chair Gimu sighed and waited for his meal with a satisfied smile on his face.

Twenty minutes later and the food was out. Gimu ate as fast as possible due to the alarming hunger that built up and had the waitress bustling back and forth with new drinks. In total an hour passed until he was finished and left coin on the table for a tip before rising and heading outside. Somehow he was not suprised to see Jade already there ready to go.

Gimu stretched, "So you ready?"

Jade pushed off the inn's outter wall and nodded. She walked back with Gimu to a clear area behind the stables. It was where they had agreed to hold their spar match. She took a moment and readied herself, rolling her shoulders loose and working her hands a bit. Then she reached back and gripped the handle of her large blade. Jade pulled it free of its sheath and looked her opponent over while she stood at the ready. "Any additional terms beyond the usual?"

He stretched his arms out behind his head and popped both of his shoulers in preperation of the coming battle. The blade Gimu drew from his back sang as it was drawn from the sheath. Gimu's greatsword was slightly above average in terms of quality and featured a large deep red gem at the end of the hilt. The blood began to pump slightly faster and Gimu felt the familiar surge of battle welling up.

"The usual being we do not kill each other? That is the only rule I need.", Gimu said with a smirk, gripping his greatsword with both hands.

Normally he would have looked over all his opponents arms to see just what quality they were working with but Gimu could tell from here that Jade's sword was well worn and needed a good make over. If he could do well with this chipped and worn sword then a new sword would do wonders, so Gimu would test Jade with what he had now.

Getting into a ready stance Gimu took a few practice swings, "You ready or you need to stretch first or something?"

Jade smirked at his comment, then added a practice swing by her side of her own. "Heh, just waiting on you."

She shifted her weight towards one foot and slid it back ready to move at the slightest provokation. Studying him with a trained eye, Jade could tell he would not be like her typical opponent. He was ripped just about from head to toe with highly toned muscles. The way he gripped that envy inspiring sword spoke volumes. Gimu could be called master level. Without realizing it, a smile crossed her face. Finally, a challenge. Finally, some fun.

Ordinarily, Jade would let her challenger have the first strike in order to learn their style, but this was not about surviving, or testing him. Gimu was testing /her/. Adjusting her grip, slightly she rushed him. With a deft, fluid movement she swung her blade low to come swing upward against his. A bold move, taking the angle with the most disadvantages, but she hoped it'd surprise him enough to catch him off guard.

Waiting on him? That was rich. As Jade judged Gimu he did the same for her. The greatsword was an interesting choice of weapon expecially for someone who seemed not to be built enough to weild one effectivly.

A change in his stance told Gimu that he was ready and the smile that appered on Jade's face had Gimu forming one of his own. The charge is what he was waiting for. The move she pulled was unexpected but Gimu blocked it with his sword before returning with a counter attack at the most vulnerable point the he could find.

Despite this being a testing of abilities Gimu was not about to dull down any of his moves. He understood that sometimes people died in these sort of events.

His counter attack was followed by a feint before he attempted a whirl-wind swing from right to left. It would leave him open for a few instants but only if Jade was willing to brave the reach of Gimu's greatsword.

And he had better realize quick, that she was up to the challenge. Jade saw the opening instantly and used the litheness of her body to dodge his swing. She used her large blade, held behind her to grind down his towards him. Then within reach with a wicked fast swing around herself that if he didn't move right then would land at the crook of his neck.

Gimu shifted so that Jade's blade clanked as it brushed against the metal platings that protected Gimu's right arm. Releasing the hold of his left hand Gimu swung as hard as he could attempting to land an unexpected fist on Jade in the midsts of their sword fight.

He had excellent reflexes that was for sure. Her blade grated down his plated arm lead by its weight, leaving her wide open. It was only through the corner of her eye that she saw the back of his fist flying at her. She barely ducked in time to force the blow to hit her back rather than the side of her face. Pulling her sword away with a quick jerk, Jade leaned back to give him sharp kick to his back. When he stumbled a slight bit from the force of the blow, she took little time to respond with another swift follow-up attack.

Jade rushed at him turning her blade down behind her. And at the right moment she jabbed the pommel of her large blade up into Gimu's exposed side.

Gimu knew that he gave Jade a good bruise wherever he ended up hitting but realized that it was not the face at the moment of contact. The kick caught him off guard and the following hit actually impressed him. Any normal person would have been hard pressed for breath after such a blow but Gimu did not miss a beat gripping his greatsword in both hands he swung around 180 degrees, blade out, to face Jade. If she was not careful she would be caught in the swing.

She sucked in, ignoring the throb in her back, and jumped back out of the way. She raised her blade to a position halfway between a charging and stabbing position. When Gimu finished his motion, Jade charged him thrusting her blade at his chest.

Gimu stepped to the side with more speed than one would give him credit for and smashed his greatsword into hers creating a loud clanking sound as they met throwing her stab out wide to his left. This brought them in close to each other and Gimu threw out an elboe jab in an attempt to throw her off balance.

She was already struggling slightly to regain her balance from the way he forced her blade away. Then he came at her with his elbow. The blow landed on it's intended mark, but she buckled down using the solid strength in her legs to keep her erect. This guy was a hard hitter. It was time to up her game.

With a bit of a grunt, she counteres his jab by swinging her large blade in a low arcing motion back up towards him forcing him to back up a step to catch her blow. This was quickly followed up with another fast swing. And another. And another. This led them into a bout of fierocious blows.

They exchanged blows for a good while. Both of them constantly going from offensive to defensive in order to attempt to gain the upper hand. It was turning out to look like a battle of endurance and both parties were absorbed with the swordplay of the fight.

An opening came up that Gimu could not resist and he swung hard focusing all of his strength into one blow. As their blades met once again the clang of metal rang followed by a loud crack as Jade's greatsword cracked under the pressure an instant later the blade was in two. Gimu was able to retract his strike before it ended up crashing into Jade though she had hopped back to make sure she would not have been in the way of the blow.

Gimu stepped back and stood still in the ready suprised that her blade actually broke under the stress that he forced it under. He wondered quietly what would happen now.

At first, all Jade could do was stare at the broken end of her great sword totally shocked. Sure it had seen better days, but it had survived so much. She swore under her breath and threw the handle and it's broken half to the ground. Now what? She couldn't go on a mission bladeless. She did, of course, have her two short swords as back ups. But they'd do her little good in a match against Gimu's great sword. Though, on the other hand, she now /really/ needed to get this job to get the money to replace her favored weapon. She'd have to show her secret skill which she was sure would get her in no questions asked, but was disappointed it came to that. Jade wanted to be selected based upon her normal combat abilities.

Drawing out both short swords, she shifted her stance ready to change up her tactics. Jade drew in a quick breath and thrust herself at him with a bit of a jump. When she came at him, she blocked his large by crossing her two swords under it. Then with a moment of concentration, Jade shoved Gimu back with a blast of energy.

He walked right into that trap. The entire time Jade had been with holding this power that she had. Stumbling backwards Gimu managed not to fall over from the great invisible force thrust against him. Little did Jade know but Gimu had already made his decision before the whole energy display. Gimu decided to end it there, the will to continue fighting despite the disadvantage weapon wise spoke to him loud enough.

"I made my decision.", Gimu said as he sheathed his blade, "I made it as soon as you pulled out those shortswords. You are coming with me if you so desire and I will purchase a new greatsword for you seeing as a broke your other one."

Jade stared at him a bit, her surprise reflecting clearly on her face. Was he simply trying to get in her good graces? He didn't really seem the type though...but to pick her not because she was a weaver /and/ offer to purchase a new greatsword. She didn't know what to make of it. She sheathed her swords. Well, if he was going to offer so such so generously, she was tempted. But he had to have some kind of alterior motive. Her intensely green studied him suspiously.

"...Alright, and what is it you want?"

Gimu smirked it was obvious that Jade had been gifted few things in her life. Though Gimu could appreciate the hesitation. Many people do not give gifts without strings and that is one area that he understood far to well.

"I want nothing. I broke your greatsword during training and it was obvious even beforehand that it needed replacement. Think of this as an equipment purchase for the mission we will be going on. I can't have a soldier without their primary weapon now can I?", Gimu motioned for Jade to follow him as he began his way back into town, "So to sum things up I want nothing."

Though Jade could not see it Gimu's smile only grew larger as he waited for a reply. He figured that more questions would follow asking him the REAL reason behind the purchase even though Gimu knew that there were no hidden strings.

Jade was quiet, as the confusion on her face spoke for her. Though his answer sounded reasonable enough, she just refused to believe there wasn't more he sought after tucked under his sleeve. She walked with him and studied him carefully. Perhaps it was his goal to merely look like a highly generous individual...maybe he wanted to come off especially rich for one reason or another. Those were the nicest answers she could come up with. But she couldn't complain. If she was really going to get a new blade that easily out of the deal, Jade was sure she could handle any other 'card' he stashed. There really wasn't a whole lot that he could try that she'd already gone through. If he wished to buy her, fine. She'd been owned before. If he wished to bed with her, well, she'd give the sword back...after letting him know her opinion on that. But that didn't seem likely, as he appeared to still take her for a young man.

So rather than bombard the large man with questions, she let him guide her back into town and towards what looked like a weapon's shop.

Gimu was pleasently suprised to not hear any more questioning from 'him'. Jade was just full of suprises. The skills that he showed with the greatsword was the most impressive thing that and the fact that Jade neglected to use his magic until the greatsword broke.

They entered the door of the weapon shop and Gimu went right up to the counter, "I need a greatsword.", he explained simply to the owner.

After some negotiation they settled on a price, a hefty one at that Greatswords do not come cheap, and Gimu took the coin out of his purse and placed it on the table. The sword was then placed on the counter and Gimu motioned for Jade to go ahead and pick it up.

"Well lets be off then. Since our sparring match is settled we can start covering some ground."

Jade walked over to the counter and picked up her new blade with a firm grasp. She lifted it up towards her face and scanned the blade for defects or imperfections while also testing its weight balance. It wasn't nearly as good quality as the one Gimu carried, but it wasn't bad either. A large improvement from the overused one she had been weilding. She gave it a short test swing before swinging it back into the scabbard strapped to her back. After it was secured, she nodded toward Gimu and set out with him.

* * *

That night came with the foreboding signs of a storm. The two of them sliently agreed it was time to break for camp so they could setup shelter before the rain broke. Jade quickly went about hitching the two horses after dismounting to let Gimu start the search for firewood. Once she finished, she went about unloading their bedrolls setting them down next to the plot that would hold their campfire. She pulled out her tarp along with some rope then set about stringing it up between the trees to cover their horses. This was perhaps an odd choice of things, but Jade had riden on a sick horse before and was not in a hurry to try it again.

After finishing this, she noticed the large tent packed on Gimu's horse. Her years of service kicked in and her hands set about unstrapping it from his pack. It took her a few minutes to fully figure its structure out, though once she did it didn't take her much longer to build it. The full size of the tent impressed her. It definitely was more along the type used by high ranking miltary officials. Though, she kept all comments to herself.

Gimu arrived back at camp right about when Jade was finishing setting up his tent, "Oh, you set up my tent for me.", Gimu noticed as he put down the firewood.

Kneeling down he began to gather up some of the brush around the area in order to act as fodder. The fire soon started and he fed it the wood as necissary to help it become a roaring flame.

"I saw that you strung up your tarp to shield the horses, that will benifit them greatly. You are welcome in my tent there is more than enough room.", Gimu stated as he continued to prod the fire in an attempt to spread it faster.

Jade took a seat next to Gimu and the growing flame. The idea of sleeping inside a nice warm, dry tent did sound very appealing but..."Heh, thanks..but for your sake I probably shouldn't."

"Nonsense.", Gimu insisted, digging through his pack for something to at least warm up before the storm swooped over them, "I insist. Besides you can not much say that you would enjoy sleeping out in the rain or next to the horses. It is nice and dry AND there is plenty of room. If you snore so what, I've slept next to men that could keep entire camps awake."

Jade let out a slight laugh. She couldn't believe that he still hadn't realized she was in fact a woman. Though, she didn't mind this in the slightest. She rather liked it, to be honest, enjoying the treatment she was receiving. Plus, if he thought she were a man, who's to say others wouldn't think the same? So, the idea of having his reputation tarnished by sharing a tent with her was becoming less likely in her mind. Alright, she'd put out one more 'test' and see how it played out.

She casually started striping off her armor, mostly composed of various leather pieces, perhaps a hide piece here and there, all until she was down to her loose undershirt and pants. This left her still fairly covered. The shirt, which was actually more intended for a man, was extremely baggy, made from what might have originally been a white material--it was far too worn and stained to get any sense of color besides a mottled mix of browns and tans--and it's open collar v-ed down past her tight breast band. Though, the breast band could easily be mistaken for bandages.

She bundled her gear carefully, with the percision one would expect to find in a vetern solider. Then, pulling out some smoked jerky, she turned her eyes to him. "If you're sure..."

Gimu watched as Jade began to take off her armor and such which got Gimu to thinking that was a pretty good idea. Without paying any mind to what Jade was doing Gimu went about taking off his plates followed by the chain shirt he wore.

Glancing over Gimu could see that Jade was down to 'his' undershirt. He saw the bandages Jade wore over his chest and immediatly assumed that they were from some sort of injury, why else wear that sort of thing?

Gimu stripped down to his pants right there, throwing down his undershirt to rest with the rest of his armor. Unlike Jade's clothing Gimu's seemed worn but still held their original colors to some degree though his undershirt has permanent sweat and blood stains in it. His rippling muscles were obviously tuned to perfection and there was not a scar in sight on his upper body which should have been something close to a mericale giving how long he had been fighting.

After placing two bed rolls on a stone next to the fire Gimu hopped up from his seat and gathered up his things, "I am sure. Now get your things and bring em on into the tent so that they don't get soaked."

Jade smirked, but obliged the large man by grabbing her belongings. Studying his bare chest, she was rather impressed. It was one thing to be quite that built, but another to be as unmarked as he was. This puzzled her, which showed a bit on her face as she followed him into his large tent. After laying her things down in a corner, she decided to comment on it. "Gotta point me to your healer sometime."

Gimu threw out his bedroll for extra padding and was quick to lay down on top of it. He smirked at the idea of a healer removing his wounds, "I have no healer in particular that I go to. I often do not need one. We both have our unique powers it seems. Though if you are looking to get rid of scars my house has some great healers."

As Gimu finished that last sentance his eyes grew heavy and sleep found it's way to him before Jade could respond, if she even had the inclination to. The next few days went by very uneventful. They made some small talk along the way and eventually ended up in some skirmishes with the local wild life which they dispatched easily enough. With the sun rising on the eigth day they awoke with plans to reach the next town by mid-day. From there it would only be a few more days before reaching their destination...

"So I figure we take our time in this town, get a nights rest on a real bed before heading out again.", Gimu put his two sense in as he began to knaw on some jerky.

Jade adjusted her grip on her gelding's reigns. Keeping her mount's pace at a light trot next to Gimu's, she rolled her head towards him. She sighed at the thought. "A real bed. Not sure I fully remember what that is anymore." She smirked a bit. Though eyeing his jerky made her realize how thirsty she was. She reached back and pulled her waterskin out of her saddle pack then promptly took a long draft.

Gimu chuckled at that, "Yeah I almost feel the same way."

Following Jade's example he too drank from his water skin. It was warm out already and only getting hotter as their horses padded along. Placing the water back where he got it Gimu heaved a sigh of releif.

"The sooner we get to that inn the better. I want a homecooked meal myself.", Gimu said with a smile as he started to think about the huge meal awaiting him.

~~~~TIME SKIP~~~

The two finally made it to the gates of town around when they expected. The sun was high up in the sky and while it was a little early to drink Gimu did not seem to care, "To the Tavern then.", Gimu said as he handed off his horse to be stabled and tipped the stables boy, "I know the perfect place too. The Sleeping Drunk. The name is better than it sounds, the place is not neerly as seedy as you would think."

With that he lead the way and soon they were at the door, a large wooden sign with a passed out drunk man etched on made it stand out from the other buildings on the street. Since they entered the place around noon they found it almost completly empty. Approaching the counter Gimu asked for a fine room for himself and a strong drink. Seemingly recognizing his voice the old bartender, a large man in his late fifties or so, lit up as his friend entered.

"Gimu!", the man said, glancing to Jade and then back to Gimu, "I will be sure to get you and your friend the strongest. Though later you must tell me how you are doing! I will leave you to your drinks for a bit though."

Gimu laughed as the bartender turned around to get their drinks ready, "You know me to well you drunk old fool. Oh, this is Jade. Jade this is Beyhmor, or Bay for short. Twice a year around the same time there is a drinking contest here at this bar and for the past five years I have won every time."

Bay and Gimu enjoyed a laugh together as this fact was mentioned.

Jade stared at the pair rather unsurprised. Gimu put down quite a few on their first encounter, so the fact that he could win a contest at it seemed almost natural. She also noted the bartender's name after Gimu introduced them. Jade stepped up to the bar and debated whether to refuse the 'hard' drink she was about to be served. Not that she minded drinking just..being the status she was...she hadn't had the luxury to much more than what a few spar coins could offer. She doubted her tolerance of such strong spirits to be high. And she did /not/ wish to lose herself with a man she seemed to get a level of respect from, just after meeting him and right before heading towards his home and on to a high paying mission. But at the same time she didn't wish to be rude, lest she anger her 'host'.

She sighed and tried to politely slip in a request of not pouring her a full mug, passing it off as it being a bit early in the day for such pleasures.

The bartender simply laughed as he turned around, both mugs already full of the brew, "Sorry man, already filled her up."

The mugs were set in front of them with a golden liquid sloshing inside creating a light foam on the top. One could smell the alchoal before even getting close to the mug. There was also a light hint of a smell compareable to lemons mixing with the alchoal.

"Besides it is never to early! And I know Gimu would have to agree with me there!", the barkeep exclaimed, "This a new type of drink we just got in. The drink is hard at first and burns going down but is followed by a stronger sour taste with a lingering lemon afterflavor."

The barkeep looked from Jade to Gimu as he explained this, "I am sure you will enjoy it. Remember that only the first two are on me."

Gimu smiled as he looked down into the mug, "A new drink you say...", he seemed intreged and took a moment to simply enjoy the smell. Suddenly he grabbed the mug and without hesitation downed half of it.

Slamming the drink back on the bar Gimu exhailed deeply intentially directing his breath away from Jade, "Wow! Really knocks your armor off. I think I will need a meal before I finish another one of these."

His face twitched as the sourness suddenly struck but relaxed back to normal before to long. Gimu nodded to Jade as if to try her's.

Jade gave a sort of slow nod that could be read as 'oh great'. She pulled the mug over towards herself and stared down into the golden-yellowy, frothed liquid. Part of her considered blurting out that she was a woman, but they oddly enough probably wouldn't believe her, and she wasn't about to cop out that low. With a sigh, she resigned herself to her current fate and watched Gimu down half of his in practically an instant. She still hesitated a bit more. Though, who was to say she wouldn't like it? And one sip certainly was not going to intoxicate her.

She brought the mug to her lips and forced herself to down a couple of sips. She couldn't do anymore as she broke out into a fit of coughs, while slamming the mug back down. It WAS strong. It was like liquid fire rushing down her throat all the way down to her stomach, where it continued to tingle. The sour aftertaste would have had its own reaction if it wasn't masked by her coughing fit. She winced and shook her head to banish the sensation. "Uh!" It was all she could manage for the moment while she tried to regain her breath.

Gimu and the bartender both seemed to chuckle at the same time. "Well how do you really feel about it?", Gimu gested, "Though I am glad you at least tried it, I'll drink yours if you do not want it."

Gimu took a few more sips of his this time enjoying more of the sourness that followed as a familiar warmth filled him, "I have not felt this warm so quickly in a long time. Some good stuff you have here truely."

Jade let a rather sarcastic smile cross her face. A sort of 'very funny guys' look. Then, she shoved her mug Gimu's way. "Yeah, think I'll have to take ya up on that offer this time. They never passed anything much stronger than water down to us nexi. Heh, so that's definitely outside my 'range' so to speak."

Gimu took a big gulp of his drink keeping the corner of his eye on Jade as 'he' talked. When she said Nexi he hesitated for a moment mid drink but then continued. The barkeeper's eyes seemed to widen a bit at the mention of the word.

After setting his drink down Gimu spoke once again, "A purchased soldier huh? Those places that get into those sorts of deals just need to start recruiting and training some of their own better. Well theres a taste of some real alchoal."

Gimu smiled lightly after that last sentance and looked Jade up and down as if examening 'him' again, "Well I am sorry that had to happen. Service should not be bought. I hope they were not to rough on ya."

The bartender seemed to let the two talk now, walking off into the back to check on their meals.

Jade merely shrugged like it was nothing. Really, as far as she knew it hadn't been that horrible. She hated floggings though. And after half a dozen failed attempts at raping her, the men seemed to get the hint that she wasn't some woman to be taken advantage of. Either that, or they just wanted an easier hole to plug up. "Not too much. 'Course anybody stupid enough to test me too far learned their mistake. And I guess, really in an odd way I almost appreciate it. I doubt I'd would'a been allowed to be a solider otherwise. Woulda been shoved into some mage school or what not or be ...er..worse." Her fingers traced over the wooden countertop as she spoke. There was surely a lot more to be told there, but not anything Gimu would be priviledged to hear anytime soon.

Gimu glancd at Jade oddly as he added 'worse' there at the end. Something seemed to make him nervous to say, but Gimu was not one to push the subject, "I am sure they did learn their lesson. I could easily see you hitting some folks over the head despite the punishment that no doubt followed. Yeah getting stuck in a mage school would have sucked, not any real action there just studying."

He thought again about pressing the conversation further but drank instead, finishing off his mug and starting on Jade's. He could already feel his head getting lighter a sign that this was really some potent stuff, "I am a soldier as well, though I chose to be counted among the ranks in a sense. I would have been disowned if I had chosen another path, but then again I really had no want to do anything differently."

Jade smirked and raised a brow at that. "That man would be a fool to disown a fighter of your strength....So you said we're stopping at your family's before heading out on this mission of yours?" She decided to see what she could learn about this man she was traveling with. That way there'd hopefully be no surprises.

"Yup.", Gimu said simply and then used his drink as an excuse to say nothing more. After a number of gulps though he had to set it down as the sourness kicked in. Pretending not to understand Jade's interst Gimu decided to attempt to switch the topic he was not yet ready to drop the guise of an average person, "Well luckily I turned out to be a fighter and not a baker or something. How long have you been 'free' for now?"

Too bad for Gimu's desires, Jade noted that switch in topic. But she took it as, perhaps they were not on the best of terms or something of the like. And she certainly was not going to push it further, for fear of getting flogged for harrassing an officer. So instead she played along with his topic change. "Heh, yeah. Uh, about 5 years now I think? Why?"

"I was just wondering." Gimu said with a shrug, glad to be off the previous talking, "Was curious to see how long you have had to establish yourself. Just been wandering around taking mercenary work since then eh?"

"Pretty much. Not much else I'm use for." She answered simply.

"Heh. So you have not yet grown tired of fighting, I am with you there. My family encourages me to 'settle down' but really I would much rather persue a good battle.", Gimu rasied an eyebrow as he continued, "You ever think of something like that? 'Settling down', taking a wife perhaps."

Jade jerked a bit. That comment took her completely off guard. "Ah! Heheh. No no no no...I won't ever be taking a wife." She answered and added under her breath, "I don't even think that's allowed." After clearing her throat, a feeble attempt at 'un-flustering' herself, she carried on. "Heh, yeah I don't blame you. I wouldn't want to have to live with someone who lays with you maybe 10 percent of the time and yells at you the rest."

Gimu was going to correct Jade with an 'oh yes of course that is allowed!' but what he said next caused Gimu to spray his alchaol across the bar and follow that action up with laughter that burned his throat, "Hahaha! Ah you get it! Yes Jade exactly. Every woman I see seems to be the same and in my heart I know I must settle some day but I am not yet ready for that... Oh you forgot to mention that of the 10 percent that they lay with you less than 1 percent do they actually lay on top of you."

Gimu shook his head and gave Jade a good slap on the back, "In the short time that I have known you Jade I feel that we have become friends. Though I never pictured you as one with such a hidden talent for telling jokes."

Jade was rather startled by his reaction, but smirked a bit when he erupted with laughter. She hadn't intended on actually being funny, just stating what she knew to be true. His added comment of the laying on top of you went over her head, but she kept smiling a bit. Then wham! Gimu's strong hand slapped her square between the shoulder blades. This pushed her forward and made her cough somewhat. "Heh...I guess? Just being honest..."

Gimu chuckled again, "Well some of the best humor originates from truths. "

The tavern owner came back this time with a plate in each hand. Placing them in front of his guests he took a moment to explain that it was hotter than he made it seem to be before going about doing his normal buisness.

Despite the food being piping hot Gimu could not help but take a bite, the alchoal actually helped him not feel the pain of the heat from his meal.

Jade let her food cool before attempting to eat it. They ate quitely, just enjoying each other's company, with an occasional comment here or there. Afterwards they broke to their own separate leisure. Jade went to the back to tend to Oran and practice some drills with her new blade. She kept drilling until she reached a nice sweat, then grabbed for a towel. Once she'd dried off (mostly), she wandered around the market just to see if anything struck her fancy. There were a lot of high quality items about, things that were all well outside her price range, but still interesting to look at. Eventually, she ended up back at the Sleepy Drunk and went up to her room. Just like the things at the market, it too was of higher quality than what she was used to. This made her a bit uncomfortable. How was she to afford this? Maybe if she talked to the owner, he would know of somewhere she could stay. She closed the door without having set down any of her gear, and trudged back down the stairs. There was a bit of a growing crowd in the dinning area now, as it was approaching dinner time. She walked up to the counter and rapt on it to draw the barkeep's attention, "Oi, uh Bay was it?"

After their meal Gimu went out on his own as well. Not being intersted in the wares of the market he immediatly went to training. The alchoal effects had worn off slightly from the food and soon after the training began Gimu was unaware that he had even consumed any alchoal that day. After a good two hours or so he made his way back to the Sleepy Drunk and after offering Bay a story or two made his way to the bath. The water was most excellent and Gimu almost found himself asleep there in the bath, removing himself from the water he went back to Bay and paid for both his room and Jade's. With that done he went to his room and slept, waking up later that night to a hungry stomach. After taking care of the problem he once again found himself in the baths in the relaxing steaming filled room.
------------------------------------------------------------
"Aye, Bay it is. What can I do for ya Jade?", Bay said with a smile as he turned to her, drying a recently washed mug, "How about a meal, or maybe a dip in the baths they would do ya some good."

"Ah, heh. No no. I was wanting to ask how much you charge here per night. Seeing the room...it's I think fairly above me, if you catch my drift. So, if that be the case, you know of somewhere that might have some room available?" Jade asked, trying to be as friendly as she knew how.

Bay gave a hearty chuckle, "Well you will not be needing to worry about that. So he really did not tell you? Gimu paid your room in full for tonight. So go ahead and relax, anything you eat or drink tonight is on his tab too. He would insist and did insist actually. You should just get a good meal and take a dip in the baths while you are here."

Jade was about snap at him, but caught herself and channeled her frustration by clentching her fists. "That guy needs to stop paying for me. Please, can you give him his coin back? I pay for my own."

"I certainly can not!", Bay said shocked that Jade would ask such a thing, "Not that his coin is any better than yours. But he insists and when Gimu does not get his way things do not end pretty. He said to consider it a buisness expense, if that helps any."

Jade was starting to get a bit ticked off and slammed her fist a bit into the countertop. "That doesn't cut it dammit! I won't have him treating me like some woman! Do you know where he is? I'll talk to him myself."

Bay gave Jade a strange look when he said 'woman' but the anger in the situation did not lead him to question, "Well he treats everyone like that! This being a buisness expense is perfectly reasonable. He is back in there.", he pointed back to the baths.

Jade gave Bay an irritated wave as to say a rather short 'thanks' and walked off in the direction he pointed out. She hastily barged into the bath-room. The steam abruptly greeted her, making her snort a bit. She walked over to where she could see the man, hardly flintching at his nudity. "Oi, what's your deal? I can pay for my own shit. So quit it!"

Gimu sat there in the bath very relaxed with his head back and resting on the floor when Jade barged in. He was completly in the nude though the steam did a good job of covering his lower half for the moment. Despite the noise she made he did not seem to move, upon closer inspection one would see that his eyes were actually closed and he was snoring lightly.

Jade slapped her hand to her forehead then let it drag down her face as her irritation peaked. He was asleep. Perfect. She glanced around the room for something to throw at him, but after a few scans around the small room came up with nothing. Well fine then. She flicked her wrist, sending a small burst of energy to smack him on the cheek as if she had thrown something. With her hands crossed angerily across her chest, she waited to see if that would wake him up.

Nope. His head moved from the blow and his snoring actually became louder. Gimu sank down slightly lower into the bath and seems to have been sleeping just as peacefully as before.

Jade growled with frustration. The urge to reach down there and grab him swelled inside her, but she held it back. Instead, she tried a harder energy smack to rouse the very heavy sleeper.

This time he seemed to stir, "Ghe."

Gimu rubbed his eyes and gave a great yawn. Looking up from the bath he saw Jade there and not registering that she was mad smiled a bit, "Come for a bath? The water is amazing.", He gave a heafty sigh after asking his question and submerged his head full in water before coming up shortly afterwards and throwing his head back to get his wet black hair out of his eyes.

Jade snorted again at his cool display. It made her want to throtle the man, just a bit. But she restrained herself. "No. I did not come for a bath. Look. You need to stop paying for my stuff. I can handle my own." Her voice was sharp and to the point, demanding his full attention and respect. She made no attempt to hide the irritation from her face either, as she awaited his reply.

He could hear the anger in her voice but could not see it. His eyes were closed again and his head was laying back where it once was, "I know you can pay for yourself.", Gimu said calmly, "But until our job is over many of your expenses will be considered part of the payment for your work. And I was the one who broke your greatsword, it was rightfully so that I would pay for that."

Jade gritted her teeth to keep herself from spitting. "Look that's great and all, but I'd feel more comfortable not being 'bought'. I earn my keep now and I'd like to keep it that way. The sword...that was a different issue."

Gimu sturred some and opened his eyes to look at her, "You need to losen up. You are not being bought in the slightest, in fact you still have the option to refuse the job if you hear it and decide it is not to your liking. I am glad you can pay for your things, and I do not doubt your ability to. I have plenty of gold.", after a slight pause he quickly added, "Which I will be repaid for after arriving because these are indeed buisness expenses. My employer has agreed to pay for anything that will help us on our venture and getting there is part of that cost."

"Well, isn't staying here a bit frivolous then, if we're staying on someone else's purse?" Jade raised her brow and gave him a hard stare. She wasn't sure how she felt about things now hearing that sort of response. Was the man any better than a swindler? Maybe she'd better get out now before it was too late and she'd get a rash flogging for stealing some aristocrate's money...or worse.

Really he just pulled the last bit out of his ass. But Jade seemed to be buying it which was good even though he now questioned now if this gold was right to spend, "Well most normal mercenaries stay at inns when they arrive in a town. And this man and I go back for a while, our ties run deep. He would be fine with a purchase such as this. Besides this town is just expensive in general, The Sleeping Drunk is not an extravegant place in comparison to the town. I mean it is named The Sleeping Drunk afterall."

Jade mulled Gimu's answer over a bit, then after a while gave way to a sigh. It made enough sense she supposed. And they too hadn't stayed anywhere else the preivous nights of their traveling. One night at what she considered a lush inn couldn't hurt that much. "Alright...fine. Sorry to harrass you over this. I...I won't do it again." Her eyes were fixed off to the side as she made her apology. She saluted him with a bow then turned to leave.

Gimu stood from the bath as she went to leave, revealing his perfectly build muscular body fully in the nude, and addressed her, "Wait Jade. I did not mean any harm with my response and you caused no harm. Why don't you stay and bathe? It truely is relaxing."

If she turned around she could see that he had an obvious armor tan. His face and neck, while still mostely pale, was darker than the rest of his body by a shade. Gimu's dark green eyes were focused on Jade intently, it was never his intention to bring her down. He had always done his best to understand the need to pay for one's things, but perhaps he has not learned all he needed to about that topic.

Jade heard him stand and paused. She let him finish speaking before glancing back towards him. He wasn't the first man she'd seen naked, so seeing him such did not startle her. However, she noted with inward amusement his 'armor-tan', and noted how built he was. Serith, Earl of Balahad, her purchaser, was built very similarly, though perhaps not quite as strong as Gimu.

"Uh...thanks but I'll pass." She hoped he wouldn't 'insist', and let her leave without too much hassle.

This time he would not insist. Gimu did not want to blow the situation out any larger. Instead he sat back down with a shrug, "Well it is your choice in the end. Enjoy it here before we move on, I know I will be for sure."

He sighed and stretched deciding that he should soon get out as well but did not express his feelings. If he stayed in here Gimu knew he was just going to fall asleep again.

With that, Jade walked out of the bath room and ventured back to the tavern. Sighing, she took a seat at one of the free tables and leaned back in the chair. When a waitress came by for her order, she asked a mug of cider and waved off any other offers. The waitress came back within a few moments producing Jade's request on the table. Jade nursed the warm, spiced drink while letting her mind carefully consider what was to come in the next few weeks.

A few minutes went by and Gimu came out of the back. He ordered a mug of ale as he passed by the bar, taking a moment to stop and whisper in the barkeepers ear about giving Jade a little something to help him feel better. Then found a seat at Jade's table. "Hey.", Gimu said as he took a seat, "Drinking the cider? That is good stuff."

His ale soon followed and he drank from it gratefully.

Jade perked up a bit when Gimu joined her. She nodded a bit. "it is. Better here than most other places for sure. Your friend is good at his craft." She eyed her companion a bit supsiously but in good humor.

Gimu nodded, "That he does." He smiled and leaned back in his chair continuing to enjoy his ale, "I am glad you enjoy it I am sure he would be overjoyed to know."

"Heh. Seems so." Jade continued to sip at her drink. A comfortable silence fell in between the two of them as another round of drinks was brought to them. Jade glanced up at the waitress with a questioning brow. The young lady simply smiled and said they were from Bay, with a furtive wink to Gimu. She shrugged and took a long drafted of the cool liquid. For the moment, she didn't seem to notice it had been spiked. It tasted well enough, so she drank it happily.

Gimu started ordering the strong stuff from then on. They continued to down the drinks and as Jade drank more she became looser and Gimu drank with her. Together they ended up filling the table with mugs faster than the waitress could take them away. Finally Gimu decided to open up some conversation, "So you told me earlier that all you have been doing is looking for merc work the whole time you have been 'freed?' How has it been, as excited as you expected it to be?", There was a slight slur to Gimu's speech as he spoke.

Jade's movements had become progressively sluggish, and her cheeks grew a bit flush. At some point admist their drinking, she noticed that there had to be some amount of alcohol in hers despite not ordering any. However, by the time she did, she hardly cared, being rather buzzed already. Gimu spoke up and drew Jade's attention away from her mug. She shrugged. "Hell if I know. It's all 'm good fer anyways...I like fighting. Is a lot better than cleaning up after useless nobles."

~-----~-----~-----~-----~

The horse's clopped on as the pair of them paced through the woodlands. A comfortable slience had developed between them leaving only the sounds of their mouths to lick off the surrounding foliage. Jade readjusted the reigns in her hands and stroked her gelding's mane.

They were very close now, an hour or two more and they should be in sight of it. They continued up the familiar hill which just over one could see into the valley below and Gimu would be pointing out his home. He looked over to Jade and wondered silently if anything between them would change once it was revealed that he is part of such an important family. He reassured himself that Jade was just not that kind of person and focused on the repetitive clops of horse hooves. Some time went by and Gimu decided to speak up, "We will be in sight of it soon. Right after this hill I will point it out to you.", he debated inwardly whether to tell him now or wait till he discovers himself where exactly his home is in the town they were headed to.

Jade paused giving herself the opportunity to glance at her large companion before responding. Gimu seemed almost nervous somehow. He was obviously concerned at how she would react at seeing his home, which Jade thought was strange on account of her being a lowly nexi. It wasn't like she had any property to call her own; well save for her horse and of course her clothes and so on. But what some might think to be quant or poorly on standards, Jade wouldn't judge or really mind either way. And considering he bought her the new greatsword straped on her back, she doubted that his home would be unsutible for visitors...Ahh..Perhaps it was not the richness of his house. Maybe it was his family; Gimu had mentioned having a couple of siblings. Jade realized that he might be concerned that his family might treat her poorly due to her social station. "Tch.." She breathed as a small smirk slid across her face. Yeah, like she really cared. Really Jade secretly prefered it that way. It helped to minimize socialization. "So I take it we're getting close then?"

He looked over to Jade as she provided an initial reaction. The smirk that crossed Jade's face caused Gimu to relfect one of his own, "Yes we are. It will not be long now. I could only hope that no one is home and my entire family decided to up and leave for... I dont know vacation or something. Whenever a friend stays at my place the thousand question game usually starts."

Really this was a package deal. Gimu was hoping that the influance his family holds as well as them as people would not change how Jade interacted with him. One of the things he hated the most was actually being treated as a Duke's son. "So you are not serving right now, you ever think of getting a place of your own?"

Jade cringed and rolled her eyes at the 'thousand question game'. That sounded absolutely /wonderful/...But she let out a quick laugh at his finishing comment. "Hell if I'd ever have the coin for it. Really, I think I'm probably too restless for a real home...too much up keep and well; I don't think I'd be allowed to buy a house anyway."

"According to the rules of your contract you are still aloud to own a home. Though you would have to live in the kingdom that you serve under and there is a certain limit on how much land you can own. But eh what ever. I hardly spend any time at my home anyways, and I prefer it that way. Sitting around for to long gives me cramps.", He smirked at that, as much as he knew about combat he knew a great deal about sitting on his ass and filling out important documents or signing papers for literally hours.

Jade smiled. "Tcheh, ain't that the damned truth. I think I'll be working the cramps outta my ass here for next couple of days." She was happy to let the topic slide away from her ability to purchase a house. Not that she was really trying to hide from him that she was in fact a woman, Jade just prefered being treated like a man. So the longer she could keep Gimu fooled, she'd keep her mouth shut. Jade let her green eyes gaze on the path before them. They were only a few feet from the hill's crest. She couldn't help but squint ahead to see if she could make out any man-made shapes, but the hill still obscured her view.

He chuckled and looked over as Jade was trying to see further into the distance, "I know I will be glad to get back into a saddle after the few days that we remain at my home. Also we are not that close yet no bother squinting, the hill is in the way. I know my family will want us to stay and talk with them today. But tomorrow I'll show you more around the town."

Jade heeded his suggestion and let her eyes slide over towards him. "...Alright. So what's your town called? I don't think you ever mentioned it."

"Well it is a pretty important place. Bledran, lots of trade and some important people." Gimu said as they continued along, "There will be much to see and do there after we spend some time with my family."

"Ah...Bledran, that's in the largest duchy isn't it?" Jade asked, while trying to remember the answer herself. She'd been within the smaller dutchy of Balahad for the past several years, so she hadn't been exposed to a whole lot of the surrounding kingdoms; but at the same time, she'd had seen some of the world maps in her Lord's manor. Bledran did sound pretty familar.

"Yes thats right." Gimu said, suprised that Jade would know such a fact, "Have you ever been there before? I just assumed that you had not."

"No, but I've heard of it...." Jade trailed off. They finally crested the hill allowing them a full visual of the sprawling 'town'--make that city--of Bledran. And in its heart, the dutchy's main palace, home to the Grand Duke and his family.

Great stone walls encircled the inner part of the city where buildings could be seen often cramped together to fit all that they can within the main walls, though there are obvious sections where those of great status seperated themselves from the rest. A large section was set aside in the northern part for a large building housing the Duke and his family as well as a place for training of some of the best warriors the land had to offer. A second wall provided protection for multiple farms and additional housing. After the second wall farmland spread out far and dots can be seen traversing the roads into and out of the town.

Jade gaped at the sprawling city. She's seen fine houses and building before, but this...Bledran was beyond her biggest imaginings. She didn't even know where to begin. "...Ahh...heh..pfssh..wow. Ha, lemme guess you live up in the palace right?" She asked teasingly.

Gimu looked at the familiar sight once again and breathed in heavily. He looked upon his home and his people once again. Sometime soon he would replace his father and then it would be his task to look over the land. Gimu coughed at Jade's spot on guess of where he lived, "Oh... uh yeah. Yes of course I do." He ment to give a little sarcastic flare to it but never really managed to pull that off, "Well well lets get there shall we! The faster the better." Gimu said spurring his horse forward at a slightly faster pace.

Jade thought that to be an odd response, as it didn't come across to be a witty comeback. Then he rushed forward out of nowhere. "...the hell?" Jade muttered then quickly spurred her own mount, Oran, up towards Gimu's speed. They swiftly desended the hill towards Bledran. The city itself was very impressive, but none-so-much as the massive towaring palace that Gimu was leading him towards. Then it donned on her. He wasn't kidding. He did live there. Jade stared at the back of Gimu's head. Though now, she was looking at him in an entirely new light. Fuck. Was he the grand duke himself?! He could have her killed for her treatment of him thus far! A barb of nervous fear gripped her. The idea of pulling Oran to a holt and bolting it crossed her mind, but Jade was no coward. She swallowed hard and carried on, distracting herself with the sights. The city was constructed mostly of smokey grey stone, found common in these parts. The castle was constructed of similar material but with much larger slabs and more persice craftsmanship, and intricate design work embellishing it's exterior.

They pulled up on the palace gates, and in perfect time each of the gates swept open to allow them passage. Large red and purple banners flapped all around in the wind; each carrying the symbol of Bloodstone. Gimu's symbol. When they reached the palace's main gate, which was nestled in a large green garden which surround the flagstone path, they dismounted. Jade hoped that the tension in her face would go unnoticed.

The nervousness built in him as they rode closer and closer to the palace. Finally they were there and Gimu let out a sigh as they both dismounted. "This is my place as you can see... You guessed right.", Gimu said as a stable boy hurried over to them to take their horses.

"Don't change the way you treat me because of this. I am a man and nothing more. Gimu Bloodstone might be my name but that is the name of a man just like any other, first son of the Duke or not.", He said with a bowed head.

Taking a deep breath he lifted his head and opened the gate himself.

Jade stood there still in shock. She hardly noticed the stable boy taking their mounts. Then Gimu spoke. Son of the duke. Son. He wasn't the grand duke. At that Jade finally inhaled. "Okay. And by the way, I'm a woman." She muttered, though Gimu was well out of earshot as Jade had not moved to follow him. She shook her head to snap her back into her witts and cautiously followed the Lord.

They walked along the stone path up to the front door where Gimu used the elaberate door knocker to announce their arrival to those inside. A older maid soon showed up at the door to greet them, "Aleha. Greetings, it has been a while. This is my friend Jade, could you let the family know that I have arrived?"

Aleha curtsied and nodded, "Yes of course my Lord. Also I will draw you two baths you will need them before supper! Come on inside and wait." She gestured to some chairs in the main room they entered into. A grand room with a large staircase leading up and multiple chairs and a couch. Gimu took a seat on one of the chairs and gestured for Jade to do the same.

Jade gawked at her expensive, royal surroundings, trying to keep from moving very much. She was afraid she might break or dirty everything around her, including the lavish rug under her feet. Her eyes eventually made their way over to Gimu. He gestured for her to sit beside him, to which she hesitated. Her fear was fast turning to anger; a rather dominate flaw of hers. "Yeah, the hell I can do that. Do you want to get me hung?" Her tone was harsh and critical. Though, that anger wasn't really directed at him. It was at herself for not noticing this bit of information sooner, which would have saved her from a lot of her recent behavior...and noble bashing. She pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed. "Fuck...er, sorry for my...hostility my Lord."

"If you were going to get hung it would have happened already. Im pretty sure you can drop that idea. Now make yourself comfortable.", Gimu stated calmly, again gesturing to the seat next to him while his eyes took in the familiar sight of the house he grew up in.

It took a bit of effort, but Jade held her against the smart alec remark that bubbles up on her tongue. With a sigh, she quietly crosses over to the cushioned seats and timidly took a seat. The softness of the chair surprised her, causing her irritation to be interrupted and replaced. Her face took on the expression that might be akin to an abused child getting sweet cake for the first time. Jades hands pressed against the cushions to feel them sink in and rise back up. "..whoa.." she whispered almost completely enamored. What it would be like to have a chair such as this to call her own...

He looked over to Jade when she sat down and watched her reactions as she sunk into the chair. It made him smile a bit, "When you get your own place I'll get you one of those chairs. As a new home present. Sorry for not telling you about me before. Just tends to make people act a lot differently, and I do not want that."

Gimu's comment made Jade blush a little. She stopped messing with the cushion and looked away for a moment. "Eh, I don't think that'll ever happen...and don't worry about it. "I'm sorry for snapping at you...though you can't blame us for treating you so differently. Especially when we could get flogged or hung if we speak out of turn."

"Yes I don't blame you, but that is why I just decide not to tell anyone until I have to. But now you know.", Gimu said, taking back to looking around.

The same maid from before came back in the room, "Your baths are ready. My lord I believe you know where yours is I will show your guest to theirs."

Gimu nodded, "Well I will see you at dinner Jade."

With that he got up and headed to another part of the house where his bath awaited.

Jade was about to say something when the maid came back in. "Dinner...right." zShe slowly got up and followed Aleha out of the room. Jade quietly kept pace behind the maids shuffling feet.

"Soo, how did you get to meet the young master?" Aleha asked.

"Oh, uh we met at a tavern up north a ways..."

"I see. Well, you best be count'n your lucky stars you happened upon him. You won't find a more loyal friend in all the kingdoms."

Jade only nodded. They continued in silence until they reached the door to one of the guest rooms in the guest's wing. Aleha opened the door for Jade and gestured for her to go in. "You go ahead and get comfortable, and I'll be back with some fresh clothes to change into. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask." The maid explained and shut the door after Jade. Jade look a long sweeping glance across the room. She stood stuck in mild awe, afraid to move. Though after a few breathes she stepped toward a decorated room divider. Behind it was a large, lavishly embellished bath tub; of which Jade mistook for a fancy water basin. She spotted the small drain on the floor, and took to looking for a washing pale. "Where...?"

After a few minutes of looking, Jade resigned her self to standing around awkwardly waiting for the maid to return. Aleha came back in with a set of neatly pressed hose and tunic which were done in the Bloodstone colors. She almost instantly made eye contact with Jade and smiled a bit incredulously.

"Well, what ever is the matter, sir?"

Jade scratched at the back of head a little nervously. "Um...I can't find the washing pale."

"The wash---oh you poor boy. Haven't you ever had a bath?"

"I keep my face and hands clean and I wash every week." z

Aleha sighed with a quirky smirk and put a hand to her hip. She set the clothing down on the bed and walked towards Jade rolling up her sleeves. "Alright now, let's get these clothes off of you. Ah-no no no. No need to get all shy about it. Ain't nothing I haven't seen before." The maid took little time in starting to strip Jade down. Soon the green-eyed mercenary was shivering, standing only in her loincloth and three-sizes too small breast band. Aleha didn't seem to notice at first and blindly took to pulling both off. Jade, somewhat horrified, stood dumbfounded and struggling to cover herself. Aleha stared rather shocked. "Well I never....There a woman underneath all that sweat, and dirt?!" Jade's face was blood red and she tried to stammer out a 'please..don't tell' but it came out in a garbled mess. The next thing she knew she was in the bath tub, soaking in warm water. Aleha quickly ran a nearby service bell, then went to scooping up Jade's...clothes. With a look of distaste she furtively disposed of them in a waste basket. "I'll uh, have your clothes washed." She said as an after thought, though she was lying. Aleha went back over to the tub, and tested the water with her hand. "Hmm...we'll need a fresh batch...annnnd..." she muttered to herself, and paused to look her wet charge, "And a extra jar of cleanser."

A few minutes passed and the door swung open letting in two more maids. "Uh, oh dear." One of the two piped up. Aleha turned towards them with a rye smile. "Well girls we have a lot of work to do." After that statement, she stepped out of the way to let them see their charge. Both new girls made faces and broke out into small giggles. Jade cringed and let herself sink below the water.

The group of three maids turned into a small team of six. Three of them were busy scrubbing Jade down all over; a much more thorough washing than she'd ever received. The other three were shuffling in and out of the room, dumping her clothes, bringing in a fresh, heated towel, setting up a chair and mirror vanity with a full set of combs and brushes and other pieces. They set out a beautiful crimson red dress with smokey grey accents on the bed, with matching slip-on shoes. They also brought in more hot water and shampoo as was needed. The whole process took near an hour, and caused a bit of a stir in the palace with all the maids going to and fro. Jade had surrendered early on. She could keep up with Gimu in battle and hold her own against a small squadron of men, but this team of maids--particularly Aleha--she was no match for. She was scrubbed down in places she didn't even know she had and had her hair scrubbed and tugged in every which direction. All she could think during the entire time was 'I'll kill him...I will. I'll kill him'.

Once Aleha and the others were satisfied with the level of clean they'd brought their charge, the pulled her out of the tub. With swift work, they dried her off and their hard effort started to settle down. The three of them started crack'n small jokes amongst themselves as if Jade weren't even there. Comments like "Oohh, the young master finally brings a girl home and she looks like a man!" and "Oh, you don't think, do you? Ooohhh hoohoo! Wait 'til Lord Gimu finds out!" and then busting out into group laughter. A permanent scowl settled on Jade's face, though it loosened as they donned a soft, wool lined robe over her and tied it around her waist. It was the nicest thing she'd ever worn. She was stroking the material when Aleha came up and directed her to the vanity chair. At this point the 'make-over' switched to combing out Jade's rat's nest hair and cleaning out the under of her nails. Jade's internal chant intensified. Though, within a few more minutes, her hair became smooth and fluffy, and years of caked dirt was removed from her hands and feet.

"Well, my oh my! What a lovely woman we uncovered here!" Aleha complemented, looking at Jade's reflection over her shoulder. Jade cringed a bit and looked away. Aleha gave her an encouraging squeeze on the arm. She leaned down so that she could whisper in the young woman's ear. "Nothing to be ashamed of, mi'lady. Slave or not, you're a rare beauty. I'm sorry that you had to live life that way, miss weaver." Jade immediately stiffened and flinched away. Aleha lifted her hands in a motion to convey she meant no harm. "My granddaughter is a weaver. But that's a family secret between you and me." Jade relaxed at that, but then looked confused. Why would this crazy woman share something so private with her? Aleha just chuckled and walked over to the bed. Picking up the dress, the maid smiled, "Alright let's get you dressed."

Gimu sat with his family at the dinner table. A empty seat still remained where Jade would be joining them and everyone awaited for Gimu's friend to arrive. After thirty more minutes of waiting with some talking going on everyone began to get a little concerned about Jade. Gimu asked for the butler to go and check on him to see if everything was alright and he left promptly to do so. With that the talking continued about over the table, with Gimu tapping his foot all the way.

Someone rapt the door, and Aleha called "Just a minute! Would you quit struggling girl!" With a small grunt, the maid pulled herself away from the...situation to answer the door. Jade had backed herself into a corner and was holding the chair infront of as an improvised weapon. "Good god child you act like we're trying to set you on fire!" One of the other maid cried out in impatience. Aleha opened the door just wide enough to see who it was. "Yes?" Aleha asked. The butler conveyed his Lord's concerns with a raised brow. Aleha chortled nervously, "oh ho ehehehe..we'll be right out. Go on and tell the master we're sorry for the delay, but it won't be much longer!" With that the maid slammed the door and whirled around towards her charger. "Ooohh Jade! You are putting on that dress this instant! You've gone and delayed dinner for EVERYONE!" Aleha barked sternly leaving everyone in the room momentarily stunned. Unfortunately for Jade, the maids recovered first and with deft hands got her in the dress as if their life depended on it. Jade groaned like a whiney child and struggled against them. "Quit your fussing girl, or I'll have it in my mind to give you a proper lick'n." Jade immediately stopped at that. With a few adjustments and fittings, they got the gorgeous gown on her frame perfectly.

Aleha had to shove Jade down the halls (almost kicking and screaming), all the way to the dinning room. Jade fought harder when she saw the doorway to the banquet hall before her. Using all her might, Aleha pushed the insufferable girl forward. This launched Jade stumbling right out in front of Gimu and his family until she tripped over her dress and landed squarely on her face. More than ever before in her life, Jade wished the humiliation would grant her a swift death.

The family sat there stunned at the appearance Jade made to the table. No one was more so than Gimu however. His face reflected utter shock then he shook his head. "Who is this woman? Jade was supposed to join us for dinner." Seeing her face down it was sort of hard to tell that it was actually Jade brooding there on the ground. Aleha explained, "This is Jade sire, just in a more... appropriate attire than before."

Gimu shook his head in disbelief but when Jade finally stood up he could see it for himself. There she was, Jade. "Bu. Wha... who... huh?"

He was dumb founded at the discovery of who Jade really was. A woman.

"Jade please, do sit down." His father said as the butler pulled the seat back for her.

Jade's face was beat red. She couldn't look at Gimu, and her mind cringed at the irony; Well, they both were liars and apparently for about the same reason. Lovely. Reluctantly, she made her klutzy way over to her seat. Originally, she had dreamed up this clever plan of getting herself excused from dinner by explaining that she was a nexi and therefore had no table manners...but it didn't seem things were going according to plan. (This of course being beside the fact a large nervous lump had formed in her throat). Jade's scowl resurfaced as she stared at her plate half hoping it would just spontaneously split in two.

The butler went ahead and dished out portions to everyone at the table. "So Jade we have heard some about you, since we had ample time to talk. But you know nothing about us. I am Duke Gredar Bloodstone, this is my wife Brilla, son Zino and daughter Ena. I know you have already met Gimu.", said Gimu's father, holding a stern face with the hint of a smile. Gimu rubbed his hands over his face and looked to Jade again, "Wow. Yeah. So..." With that he lost his train of thought, and decided to start eating instead.

Jade glanced up at the grand duke, but kept her eyes averted and her head somewhat bowed. Yeah she caught that slight remark. How long had she kept them waiting? Why hadn't they just tossed her in the slave's barracks for taking forever? ...Were they going to flog her? They were going to flog her. She swallowed hard and made herself pay attention. With each person the duke introduced, Jade glanced at them but kept her eyes low, picking out an article of clothing to memorize so she could remember who was who. When Gimu spoke up, he was the only one that her eyes flicked up directly to his face. But it was short lived; as short lived as his attempt at conversation. When he started eating, Jade looked back down at her food filled plate. Then over to all the various silver ware. She stared, totally unsure of which she was supposed to use for what. The only thing she recognized were the knives...but there were two of them which baffled the former slave. Quietly she watched Gimu eat, trying to observe which utensils she should use.

"So Gimu seems pretty fond of you. Says you can handle yourself in a fight. We respect that around here.", Ena said before putting a small piece of food in her mouth and chewing, after swallowing she continued, "You know I think if you kept at him, now that he knows your a woman, perhaps you will strike his fancy." She giggled afterwards and the smirk of the Grand Duke grew into something that could be seen from across the table. Ena is only about fifteen, just old enough to marry but still young by many standards. Zino, seemingly the same age as Ena, attempted to hold back a laugh unsuccessfully and their mother scolded them both. Gimu coughed up the wine he was about to swallow spewing it onto his food and that is when Gredar let out a hardy laugh that boomed throughout the room. "I think she may be right!", the Grand Duke said somewhere in the middle of his laughter.

This was worse than a flogging, and Jade didn't even think that was possible! Her face's red hue intensified. She attempted to clear her throat to force the lump down, but it was impossible with how dry it had become. "I-ahem..uh...I doubt you'd want your son marrying a nexi, sire." She managed to say, though hardly above a whisper.

His face turned serious and he spoke, "Jade if you can fight, and you somehow end up with Gimu's heart. If you can do both those things AND pass family judgement. Who you are does not matter." Somehow he had managed to pick up on what she had said, even over Gimu's instant coughing. "You know... Ena I think you do this on purpose sometimes.", Gimu said between coughs as the butler went about cleaning the area infront of him.

Jade was quiet, but at least this settled her down some. She exhaled and took a sip of her wine. (She still wasn't sure on the whole eating your meal with metal objects thing). "I can fight alright...'bout all I can do..." She added quietly, more so to herself.

Gimu looked to Jade at that. She must have had a hard life, though he already knew that, just to be a woman in that position must have been even worse. "Fighting is something that requires a great many skills. I mean look at all the different weapons and armor one has to choose from. This family is born to fight, and when not doing paper work or negotiating it is what we live and breath.", Gimu said, straighting up in his chair.

Jade glanced up at her noble friend with her brow raised just a hair. "...Right." With a small sigh, she stroked the handles of the various utensils before her. She sent a silent prayer that dinner would end soon.

The dinner continued on without anyone talking when Brilla spoke up, "Jade you are not eating anything. Did anyone ever teach you how to at a dinner table properly?" She thought for a moment and retracted that, "No they probably did not, just do your best Jade." From there Brilla went on to explain the uses of some of the forks and knives but kept it all very basic.

Jade tried her best to keep from breaking something or hiding under the table from the humiliation of it all. Though, she at least was appreciative that the Dutchess didn't reprimand her for her ignorance. "Sorry..." She muttered, with a...'hint' of annoyance. Once she did start eating--still awkward with the new tools--Jade was very impressed with how good the food was. And like with many other things, her face clearly reflected it.

They went on in silence for a little while. Gimu continued to try to grasp with the fact that Jade was a woman and had to hold himself back from looking over at her repeatidly. "So Gimu what are your plans tomorrow? You gonna take Jade on a date or what? Show her where you held your first sword and all that romantic stuff?", Ena asked with a smirk on her face looking to Gimu for an answer. She had timed it almost perfectly but Gimu had not yet swallowed the wine he was drinking. After spitting it back into his glass much quicker than it went into his mouth he picked up his napkin dabbing his lips with it before placing it on the table. It was obvious he was trying to hold himself back from jumping across the table and strangling his sister. "NO. Ena-" Before he could finish she jumped in again, "Good good! Then maybe we Jade and I can hang out!"

Jade herself had been in the middle of swallowing when Ena started her....well her 'teasing'. (Ena, Jade really don't like you right now). So, Jade half choked on a lump of bread for a several coughs until she managed to wash it down with some wine. She ended up downing the rest of her glass and had to make a small effort to not slam it back on the table. Taking a deep breath, Jade collected her wits. "I -ahem- beg your pardon mi'lady, but I think you'd find better means to spend your time. I should really get back to training tomorrow anyways..."

"Well I can help you do that! I train as well everyday. We can train together!" Ena said with excitement. Gimu rubbed his hand over his face and at going to say something was interuppted again by his father this time. "I think its a great idea! I will arrange the grounds tomorrow for a sparring."

"AHhh...I don't mean normal fighting and weapons training...." Jade hurridly blurted out, her eyes darting over to Gimu in desparation, quietly pleading 'Lord, save me'.

Gimu sighed and his father continued, "Well all the same, after you do your training some sparring would not be bad. I am interested to see how Ena would do against you if you are as good as Gimu says you are!"

Jade smelled a challenge in that, Grand Duke Gredar. It was the first time her eyes directly met the high lord's, then after a moment they passed over to Ena's. Deep and inquisitive, Jade's eyes sized up her would-be opponent with just that glance. "So long as I'm not held accountable for any and all injuries she will suffer, I'll do as you wish."

Ena rolled her shoulders and took another sip of her wine leaning back in her chair, "Challenge accepted." The duke nodded with approval, "So what kind of weapon training have you recieved Jade?"

Jade responded, "Standard training for all soldiers. All military grade meele weapons, cross bow, short bow, basic polearms, and some specialization in greatsword. Oh...and jousting."

Gimu and his entire family nodded in approval at this as they all seemed very interested. Brilla the least of them but still showed hints of interest. "I would like to see your skills with all of them eventually.", the duke said before taking another drink. Zino spoke up then, "I understand why you and Gimu hit it off." Gimu grabbed his wine glass and finished the contents.

After a small nod to the duke, Jade glanced at Zino with a hint of skepticism. Gimu might have liked her right off the cuff, but Jade herself took sometime to warm up to him. After that, things settled down and the family finished with their meal. The butler pulled the chairs out for each of the ladies, starting with the Duchess and ending with Jade (who had attempted to get up with the guys but was met with sympethdic, but disapproving looks). Aleha reappeared from down the hall ready to escort Jade back to her quarters. Jade struggled to walk around without tripping in the unfamiliar garmet she was forced to wear.

Gimu avoided eye contact with Jade upon getting up and decided to take an alternate route rather than go straight to his room to avoid his family. Taking enough turns he finally ended up in front of Jade and Aleha. He was unable to avoid contact and decided some attempt at conversation was better than akwardly walking away, "Sorry about the family."

Jade, who had hiked up her dress-skirt so that a large chuck of the fabric would rest over her arm (it was the final compromise her and Aleha had come to), immediately let it fall back down to the floor. Then when Gimu spoke up she turned her head away. Unconsciously, her arms wrapped themselves over her chest, somewhat protectively. "I'm sorry for misleading you about well...my gender....Guess we're both tired of not being treated how we want to be?"

He nodded also looking away, "Yeah I guess so... Well I guess we both know the truth now. I have to say seeing you in a dress is pretty... uh. Unexpected."

Jade groaned, "Yeah, tell me about it. I have it in my mind to burn.." Aleha turned around and gave Jade a stern look, that made her keep from finishing her sentence.

"Well. Yeah we should probably get some sleep. For tomorrow. I am sure there will be plenty of training to do." Gimu said, as he thought of more things he might say or should have said.

"Yeah..." Jade let her eyes meet his. There was a silent message of apology. She was sorry that she hadn't told him sooner about herself and that they both had to sit through that ordeal of dinner. But..here was hoping tomorrow would be a better day. At least she'd be on more familiar ground this time; training armor on and a sword in her hand. Jade saluted and bowed towards Gimu then grabbed at her dress to begin walking again.

Gimu nodded and smiled as she walked away. He altered his course from his bedroom to the armorery as his face became more neutral. Then he went outside and put steel to the targets. There was so much more he could have said. That and his family! Uhg. Instead of thinking about any of it he focused on his swings and would do so until he was tired enough, or cleared his head enough, to get some sleep.

---

Jade didn't even argue with Aleha this time when the older maid laid out a white-linen night shift for her to wear to bed. She was too tired and wanting the sweet escape of her dreams. Once she had gotten changed, she laid out on the bed prepared for her. It was the best sleep Jade had ever gotten.

Morning came bright and early as always. Though for the first time in many, many years Jade was still in bed as the first rays of sunlight trickled out on to her face. Her eyes twitched open, then paused for a moment before blinking a few times. She jolted upright in shock. Adrenaline kicked into high gear sending her legs into motion. She was padding about the room, looking out the window, then slapping her cheeks to wake up, and searching for her clothes. "Omigosh..omigosh...how?...Am I sick?" She muttered to herself rather concerned. She was pacing around like this and half-way frantically looking for her clothes when Aleha quietly came into the room.

"Oh, you're awake." She said while laying a tray that carried Jade's breakfast on a near by table. Jade whirled around to face the older woman. Aleha raised an eyebrow at that, especially at the girl's expression. "Whatever is the matter, dear?" She asked with a light chuckle.

"I can't find my clothes...I can't find them. I need my clothes..omigod."

Aleha's expression tightened to reflect her growing concern. "You'll get clothing, dear. Why do you need your clothes so bad? Was there something in them you need? I can get it for you..."

"I need to be wearing them! It's already sun up and I haven't done my morning exercises! I can't be late! I've never been late. I've never. Ogod. Don't tell..." Jade's eyes held an unusual flare in them...fear. Aleha walked up to her charge, grasped the young woman's shoulders and got her to sit down on the bed. She couched Jade to take deep breaths to calm herself down. Leaning down to look her right in the jade-green eyes, Aleha grasped Jade's chin.

"Don't tell what? What's got you so worked up?"

Jade tired to squirm away and retreat from having to answer the question. She was a little more awake now and not running on auto-pilot. And being so, she realized what a fool she was making of herself. However, Aleha was not going to be that easily defeated. The maid's hold on her chin became a bit tighter, but still far from painful. "Talk to me girl. Did someone hurt you?"

"...No."

"Then what's wrong. I've got all day."

Jade sighed; her breath came out a bit shuddered. "He...I'll...please. I just want my clothes back."

Aleha just gave her look that said she was not going to budge. For the first time in probably ever, Jade felt the urge to cry. But she denied herself such and swallowed the lump forming in her throat. After a few minutes of Aleha's silent coaxing, Jade finally cracked open. She explained that 'he' was always waiting for her in the morning. But that if she were already out training in the fields, there was nothing 'he' could do about it.

"Who is he? I know it's not Lord Gimu."

Jade shook her head. "N-no..."

"Jade. Who. Is. He? Did he touch you?"

Another head shake. And only after it was made perfectly clear that the stubborn old maid was not going anywhere until she spilled the beans, Jade finally complied. It was Duke Serith Balahad. Her former master, and contract holder. Aleha's face darkened a bit at that. "I see his reputation precedes him...Well, he is far away from here my girl. And don't you even worry. Even if he were right in this very castle, no one would let him with in 50 feet of ya. For starters, the Bloodstones disapprove of nexi contracts, and you don't want to see what we do with rapists." This got Jade to relax a little, and Aleha stood up and put her hands to her hips. "Alright now, lets get you fed and ready for your training today."

Gimu stayed a good two hours outside before deciding that he should probably get some sleep. Still making sure to dodge any family that might be awake he made it to his room and dressed for bed. Laying down he exhaled deeply and closed his eyes ready fro sleep.

"So when do you two expect to, you know. Or have you already! Traveling alone, in the woods together. Sharing a tent one of those lonely rainy nights?"

Gimu scowled and sat up, "Ena I found out Jade was a woman today. I thought that was obvious. Now go to your room and go to sleep." He looked around the room for her but his eyes could not find her.

"Whatever you say, don't worry I can keep a secret. We will see how she matches up against me tomorrow that will be fun right! Sleep well brother."

"There is no secret to keep!" Gimu said in frustration, only to have no reply in response.

Laying back down he closed his eyes once again and despite the disturbance fell asleep easily. To him it seemed like a moment later that he was awoken by a familiar voice.

"Time to get up sir eat your breakfast and get ready for your day. Your clothes are laid out, enjoy your meal sir."

Before Gimu could say anything the older man was gone, and he was just fine with that. Eating his breakfast quickly he put on his clothes and headed outside where he knew everyone would be gathering. An area of the training grounds was set aside for sparring and sure enough his entire family and some of the house help was there as well. Ena was already dressed in her battle armor doing stretches and smiling in anticipation. He smiled at that, Gimu did not remember the last time he saw her so excited.

Aleha stayed with her charge while she ate, then helped her into a fresh tunic, pants, and padded training armor that had been laid out earlier. Jade still wondered where her own clothes were, but she couldn't complain; it wasn't a dress. Once she was ready, the older maid led her out to the training grounds to meet up with everyone. Jade bowed and saluted to Gimu and his family, and a slight smirk crept on her face upon seeing Ena's excitement. Aleha approached her with her greatsword and back sheath in hand. She took it and with a handful of expert hand motions got the heavy blade strapped on to its normal place on her back. With its weight against her, Jade finally regained a sense of normalcy.

After a deep self-assuring breath, she got a little closer to the Grand Duke and his children. "If you wouldn't mind, I'd like to run some morning exercises before we begin...I uh, seemed to have overslept this morning."

Ena laughed, "Sure sure, that's fine.", she said before proceeding to do cartwheels away from the group.

Gimu chuckled, "You slept in Jade? That is funny. I think I will get in some morning training too it can't hurt."

With that Gimu left to go get his armor on and find a weapon of some kind. "We can meet back here in an hour or so, that should be enough time right Jade?" Zino asked as he watched his sister continue to parade about the training grounds.

Jade nodded to Zino. "Yeah, that sounds fine." Her eyes took to scanning the grounds, until she found an open sparring ring. She headed towards it, all the while feeling a wave of relief wash over her. She'd been thinking that they'd probably insist on 'observing' her, which she wouldn't refuse, but would annoy her greatly.

As she got closer to the ring, she noticed that it'd been laid with a thick coating of sand. A grin wiped across her face. Perfect. She casually walked out to the center of the ring, letting her feet sink down into the sand. She took a deep breath and started her stretches. These lasted a few minutes as she worked each area of her body in equal measure. Now her real exercises could begin.

Jade inhaled while simultaneously raising her arms out at her sides. Holding her arms out, she slowly turned them out in front of her and slid one of her feet back behind her. Then with her exhale, she sent out a jolt of energy from her hands. This energy, she caught before it could blast away into nothing, and redirected it down into the sand pit to pick up some of the loose earth. Holding that mass there, Jade repeated this process a handful of times until she was completely surrounded by whirling spheres of sand.

This cued the next sequence of her warm up. Keeping her arms held out, she clenched both fists. Her face tightened in concentration. Within a few moments the sand-vortexes increased in speed, and the energy creating them started to become increasingly more chaotic. Then all at once, Jade let them free of their restraints. The energy went crazy, zipping around every which direction, most of which headed square for her. She broke into a routine of quick movements and energy pulses to block, deflect, and counter them.

This went on for several minutes, and eventually changed into her practicing energy pulses and waves before she created a new wave of vortexes--each new round grew in intensity. Being completely absorbed in the midst of her weaving, she noticed nothing beyond the sparring ring. If she were to attract an audience, they would have an un-distracted performance of her energy weaving capabilities.

Zino decided to watch Jade in secret instead of seperating to go about his own buisness like the rest of the family. He noted her moves and her abilities. He was impressed with her training exercises.

Dressing in his practice armor Gimu came back outside to see jade taking up part of the training grounds. After watching her for a little while he walked off to find another place to train. Instead he just ended up falling alseep under one of the big trees in the yard.

Ena continued to freerun about the place varying between speeds. Ocassionally stopping at a target hitting it a few times with her duel swords before continueing on.

An hour or so passed by and everyone ended up in the same spot. Besides Gimu who still had not shown up as an additonal five minutes went by.

Jade broke from her exercises wiping the sweat from her brow. She didn't notice Zino until he walked up near her and offered a fresh water-skin. Jade took it no questions asked and downed the entire thing in one long satisfying draft. They walked back over to the main sparring area to a Gredar, Brilla, and overly-excited Ena. Jade couldn't help but think to herself that someone needed to rip some of that access energy out of the hyper girl.

Everyone was accounted for, save for the only person she really knew. She sighed. Despite not knowing him for all that long, after about two weeks of travel with the large man, she'd picked up on some of his habits pretty quick. And know him, he had probably fallen asleep somewhere. "Good god, he sleeps way too much" She muttered to herself while she took a stance across from Ena.

Ena sighed, "I think the rest of us know right where he is. See he has this favorite tree that he likes to sleep under. Do you want to kick him awake or should I?" The last comment was addressed to Jade. The rest of the family did not seem to care either way.

Jade shrugged. "Which ever you prefer..mi'lady. I'm ready when you are."