Alynia gave him a sad but kind smile, though Eamon was too busy staring at a wall to notice. A blush still stained her cheeks, barely visible under the light of the flickering fire, but even she realized she was being a bit prude for the situation. She had been chained up like this for who knows how long. "Relax." she told him in a soothing tone. "Of course, I'd prefer you not to stare but there's no need to glue your eyes upon a wall." Alynia let out a hearty sigh. There was nothing she could do to change the state she was in. The queen decided it was best to just accept her exposure no matter how shameful. Atleast it might save her some humility. 

"Well thank you for informing me." she mused a bit relieved that Oberron was not going to over exert himself as he was still regenerating. "The plan itself seems simple enough. Am I allowed to inquire who is on the rescue team?" she asked casually. Truthfully, Alynia didn't want to set her hopes too high that she was going to be freed this very night.

"If that is really the case, I'm surely glad that you have brought here too instead of some other chamber. "I believe the silver haired one is Esper. I can't say I like her very much either. From what I can tell she mostly does the prince's dirty work." Alynia closed her eyes shuddering slightly at the memory.

"Shows no mercy when having to do with pain. Of the two devils, I believe she concentrated more on cutting one down physically. Unfortunately..." her eyes skated over the forming scars again. "Unfortunately she seems vey good at her job. I shudder to think of what bidding she is up to today. And even more at the cruel master mind who thinks controls her."

Alynia sighed again, there was nothing else for her to do. She didn't want to just stay put and feel sorry for herself, but it was rather difficult to concentrate on anything but. Alynia laughed sadly, goodness she was so weak. "I'm doing alright" she answered honestly. "I mean, It's only been one night, but it's much better with company." she said graciously. But Alynia didn't have the will to maintain her smile for too long. The queen's eyes shifted, painful expression as she remembered her own small dose of pain. "You can't really believe they would just strip me naked, then leave me alone?" she pointed out with disbelief. She frowned at the shameful phrases that had come out of her mouth. 

There was a silence that hung over the room as the queen's words died away. It was like all of a sudden the memory of her torment flooded back into her. The promise of murdering Oberron, the terrible taunts and teases on impregnating her, the excruciating pain of the whip and probe... Alynia shivered noticeably.  "It was terrible during so." she said quietly failing to keep the defeated tone from her voice. "But surprisingly they gave me something that was to help me heal. Naturally I suspect so it's that I don't get used to the pain... But still I wish there was a way I could provide some for you. I despise to see others in agony." she told him a bit more boldly. 

"Of course this will not matter if Marduke and Corte are successful. I can only hope." she added found a tone of optimism. "I have been told hope is a stronger form of magic than is credited. If this is the case, it is all I can do to help." 

Tentatively Eamon flickered his gaze back towards her, he nodded as she spoke and in truth gazing at her was more rewarding than looking at a gray wall, cast with a greenish glow from the torches. Still he did not stare, flickering his gaze to the floor though his eyes lifted to her own each time he spoke. If he was to look at her he didn't want to have her discomforted.

“I am not important enough to get those details. I have heard rumors that it will be Corte and some of the royal guard, these are just rumors of course so I am in the dark about the actual details.”

He thought over the name of the demoness. “Esper. Of course,” he returned. “The lacky of the Black Prince. I am hoping to encounter her again when I am not a prisoner but on equal footing. I doubt she knows her way around a sword like I have learned and while I normally have gain no pleasure from killing I think I'd be willing to make an exception.

“With my pressence here we might get lucky today. She might be sent to scout of the region for abnormalities. She won't find any though. Lord Marduke's army is hidden in the Shadow and not this realm so with any luck we won't be experiencing her lash today. And yes, with that sampling of her technique I am not anxious to experience it again. No doubt when she fails to find the army she will be back to torture me for information.

“I hope she does not return before the day is out, even though I am confident that she will get no information from me I would rather not feel that stinging lash again. Perhaps she was so brief with me because she had her orders and could not give me her full attention but wanted me to know what would be in store for me when she returned.”

Eamon was quiet for a moment then nodded slowly. “We may have gotten lucky in that regard. Perhaps the pair intended more for you today though with things developing as they are the Prince is probably busy preparing his army and if Esper is sent to do some recon on the situation we may have a small respite from this. I will be fine, the wounds will fade in time and are for only one night.

“Now magic seems to be impeded … I am not too great with it, my wife thought me a thing of two but I am unable to open these restraints. Are the manacles infused with some sort of anti-magic or is it the chamber itself?” He was curious.

“Yes, the power of belief is strong indeed. It is tricky to use though and against two practioners the stronger will wins out. But yes, hope can be as strong thing. If the restraints are radiating anti-magic it will not matter of course as long as you are restrained.”

While it was difficult for Eamon to find a place to settle his eyes, Alynia had no trouble peering between the green of his eyes and the green of the warm fire. She took particular interest in how the emerald glow of the flames made it appear that his eyes were shining with color. She was silent as he spoke; it was nice to listen to another voice other than her own thoughts or the taunts of demons. Glancing at him as he talked out his hatred for the silver hair demoness, she looked conflicted. “Swords? I would have reason to believe you’re right about that. But From what I know, she is still a dangerous enemy to have. I’d be sure she would have magic. I’m more concerned about her blind obedience. Surely she would sacrifice her own life if Gersham ordered it.” She paused shaking her head. “Either way, killing for pleasure is always wrong.” said the queen in a quiet voice.

Such a firm opinion was rarely found from her, but Alynia saw no reason for stooping down to anything near their sadistic level. Still she understood, in the midst of wars and feuds between the kingdoms it was inevitable. “Though Esper is horrible, I guess I’m more afraid of the Prince… I can only hope they are occupied with other business today.” she admitted with a sad expression. “But let’s not speak of such morose thoughts. It troubles me enough in my sleep.”

As he mentioned their shackles, Alynia closed her eyes trying once more to concentrate on her chains. A moment of intense concentrate to no avail, “Yes, I believe it’s just the restraints. I’ve been assuming that the fire is set with magic so I don’t believe it’s the entire room.”

She laughed softly, a tired weary laugh. “My magic is quite poor as well. Like you, my husband has been trying to help me… but I’ve been trying to free myself for quite some time.” Alynia explained shaking her head. “I didn’t know that it would apply to such magic. But alas, nothing I can do about it.”

“It would just be so much better if I could get these off!” She exclaimed frustrated rattling the chains once more. Sighing in defeat, Alynia looked to Eamon. “Doubtfully, you have any experience with anti-magic items?” she wondered hopefully though with nonexistent expectations.

“Never mind, I simply just want to get think about something else.” Alynia sighed looking back to the fire silent wishing she could sit by it. “Is there anything you’re allowed to tell me about the workings of the kingdom?” She requested kindly for the sake of conversation. “I would be very grateful if you could teach me anything. If I wasn’t for the assassin or my kidnapping, I surely would’ve been trying to learn something about where I am. It’s all new to me. It’d be wonderful if I actually gained something from this dreadful experience…”

“As am I. I can be quiet dangerous, though I guess you would think so from the state I'm in currently,” he chuckled though he had made no comment about killing for pleasure. Obviously it seemed as if he had no reason to jeopardize her safety in getting her from this place but he would relish the opportunity to cross blades with the demoness it seemed.

“If the demoness is but a tool of her Master than I would say that you are correct in fearing the Master more than his puppet but you are right, let us not dwell on it. I have already been lucky enough to be placed here with you, perhaps I will be lucky again today. All we need to do is get through this night.”

Eamon flickered his gaze to the torches as if realizing them for the first time then back at her. “I suppose you are right. Very observant. I was too caught up with this fiery burning that sears through my chest to even notice the color. But even knowing that novices like us can't hope to get free. I bet Oberron could, he's a legend amongst us fey. For something to hinder him you'd probably need an anti-magic chamber, not that I have given it any thought of course.” He chuckled, then coughed a few times before spitting up some blood. He assurred her not too worry, the trolls were rougher than he thought. Besides once their rescuerers were here he would be healed in full from these “scratches”.

He shook his head at the mention of anti-magic and he had no experienced with it until now. His magic was fairly meager he had told her and so it would be unlikely that he knew any recourses as he shook his head slight but she glossed over his answer and he had not gone into detail.

“About this kingdom you mean? He assumed that was what she meant of course. “We are located to the north in the mountains. The bulk of the forces that I've seen are dim witted, perhaps the Prince wishes to easily control his minions. Dark Creepers and some trolls. There are other things in this territory, ogres and other giants though these I do not think are affiliated with the castle. Also there are mountain goblins, also, to my knowledge not affiliated.

“The eastern portion of the castle looks out over a sheer drop and approach to this place is rather limited. If Marduke was unable to move through the Shadow then he would have to bring his army painfully close to Cinder's lair, which is near the castle itself. I am uncertain but I think the castle opens up into that lair.

“I did not get to see too much I'm afraid, I was unconscious when they brought me here but from what I know from some knowledge before hand and some in the field there is a small castle here near five towers, one at each corner and a fifth set into the center itself. I regained some consciousness when brough into the tower.

“We are in the central one though we are not at it's top either. There are corridors that circle the castle so you can access it from here quiet easily though I never did get a tour I'm afraid.”

He shifted, testing his chains then heard a clicking sound as one of the manacles came loose. He pulled his left hand free, stared at it in disbelief as if he didn't believe it then snapped to his senses and opened up the other manacle.

“I think a certain Master will be upset with a certain minion later.” He rushed towards Alynia, face to face with her now, close enough to have kissed her if that was his intend though he worked on her restraints, one then the other.

“Lucky day,” he chuckled as he freed the queen from her restraints.

Alynia smiled briefly thinking of her husbands power, but her brief happy recollection quicker changed into a face of concern. "You really don't seem as well as you say..." she muttered worriedly as she looked away from the sight of blood. It was just her nature to be uneasy about other's condition. Her troubled expression did not fade, though she listened with keen interest of the few details Eamon knew. 

Alynia was quiet, silently organizing the information. So really there were only three great threats within the kingdom. The dragon, the demoness, and of course the prince himself. Though all three were stronger than the queen could either fathom, this worked to the Fey's advantage too. There was only ever going to be so much three folk could do. Of course her logic was a bit flawed due to the fact demons do not need sleep, but still it seemed unlikely that Gersham or Esper would have too much time to play with their prisoners. Especially if they had discovered the scout. 

On the other hand such a discovery could obviously work against the two in the long run. Gersham would have time to prepare, to ready his dim witted obedient forces to counter. Alynia decided it was best if she didn't invest too much confidence in Marduke's success. Of course this is what she wanted, but it would be so much more heart wrenching if they did failed while she had been so anxious to be rescued from this cell. 

Alynia sighed again forcing herself to come to terms with her helplessness. She was muttering something about strategic location before she heard a soft 'click' ring out through the room. Her head snapped up, tilting with curiosity at Eamon.

He was free! Or at least unchained! Alynia's eyes shone with a look of excitement as he freed his other arm. Alynia knew it would be bad for the both of them if either Esper or Gersham discovered their inadequate restraints. Still, she watched with gratitude as he approached her.

"Yes.. Lucky indeed." Alynia agreed as Eamon leaned over her bare form to fiddle with her chains. The queen couldn't help but blush. He was so close, she could feel his breaths. Her nipples grazed his beaten torso. Alynia made no comment on this besides reddening. She was incredibly thankful as she was finally let down. 
 
As her weight was finally placed back on her legs she stumbled clumsily grasping his shoulder for support. Alynia's arms felt heavy and strained. The rest of her felt weak, tired, hungry. She opted to sit down underneath one of the many flickering torch lights, beckoning the elf to sit down besides her. 

Alynia was on her knees, sitting on her heels. This was the most modest form she could sit. As Eamon sat down, she glanced over him. Her eyes concentrated mostly upon the angry lines of the whip. 

"I haven't tried this before, but I wish to do something to help you. Not to mention now I as good as time as ever to try to practice." she explained raising her hands. She reached forward and placed a small hand lightly upon his torso and closed her eyes concentrating. Now that the queen was free from the shackles, she wanted to mend his wounds, or at least ease the pain. Alynia wasn't sure of what she could do, but the man in front of her had been coughing up blood, she couldn't do nothing! Suddenly there was a small green light sparked from her finger tips. The light vanished almost as soon as they came.

Alynia quickly withdrew her hand blinking open her eyes, but realizing that he was not in pain from her action she placed a palm timidly back on his chest. After a moment of tense silence, another soft green glow came from her hand. Though much fainter than last time, the light did not short circuit. 

Alynia's eyes watched carefully, maybe it was just her imagination but she saw the shallower cuts upon him began receded. "Is this alright?" she asked shyly. 

“I am fine my queen, thank you for the concern. Externally the trolls did not leave a mark upon me but I'm afraid they did some internal damage. I will be fine and able to heal once I'm out of this place. I am fine.”

Of course he had been all too aware that the queen had to be considering how successful Marduke would be now that Gersham was expecting something though Eamon seemed confident that the plan would succeed or remained hopeful of it nonetheless. He knew that was what she had to be thining, it was the most logical of thoughts though it would have been rather miserable on his part to point out the obvious and dah her hopes rather than instill it.

But he could ee the look of hope as he was freed and moved closer to her. She had grown excited with his release from those manacles and while they were still ocked here in the cell they were at least free for the time being and at least had options now that they did not have before.

Besides, the two of them could pool theeir meager magic and see what they could do about the situation that they found themselves now in.

He was so close to her that he could feel her bare chest against his, her breasts full and plump had been pressed against him but there was no helping that nor the fact that under other circumatances he might find this arousing, the queen naked and helpless befor him, the sight lusciou indeed, though he had his duty first he could not stop the very real reactions that the closeness imparted on him.

Eamon was married, yes, that was true though Oberron had stated how informal such matters where and that sex between the fey had been casual as long as their weren't any emotional connections that strengthened those bonds it seemed alright.

But Alynia fell forward and grabbed at his shoulder to maintain her balance. The additional closeness almost caused him to gasp out, nearly had him pressing his lips against her own in that closeness that they shared but she was his queen and he could not be so presumptious. Rather he made his excuses in his mind about the matter then sat beside her as prompted.

He was in the process of considering his next move when she touched him and he nearly jumped up, uncertain of what she was trying to do but it felt warm, an electrical current flowed through his chest albeit briefly at that contact.

Her touch felt so warm and intricing against his skin though once he assurred he he had just been shocked and not harmed he bid her to continue. Touched again he actually closed his eyes this time and could not stop a groan from spilling out of his lips.

“That feels amazing, your highness.” His green eyes opened and flickered towards her, then down to his chest. She was certainly doing something for the weight in his chest had been removed, no doubt he had not thought it would until they were safely out of here and he saw that some of the smaller lacerations had already closed. Some of those angry welts looked less so though he watched.

“Few have the gift of healing. I don't even think Oberron possess it so who taught you?”

Alynia had realized how close they were, but the obvious idea she might have been enticing the elf in any way did not once cross her mind. "Ah- sorry!" she had squeaked when she fell into him. Her mounds had pressed into him emitting a flustered 'eep' of embarressment from the girl as she quickly pushed away. Naturally Algnia was embarrassed by her situation, but the girl was much too innocent as well as modest to believe she was an arousing sight to the man before her. 

Alynia shook her head as Eamon tried to reassure her. She sighed and gave him a smile of disbelief. "Even if you say you are alright, I won't quite believe you." she told him quietly. Alynia flushed at his groan, she has not expected such a sound. She was briefly distracted; the light glow from her finger tips flared and shorted again. Alynia felt a small electrical shock pulse back through her fingers and withdrew her contact in surprise.

She took a deep breath reestablishing  her focus. Once again she placed a hand upon his torso reigniting the faint green light from her finger tips. Though angry red welts still littered across Eamon's body, the small lesions were obviously beginning to close up. Alynia was concentrating very intently, her hands grazed over his torso allowing the trail of dim light to course over him. She found joy in watching some cuts fade, some bruises lighten up, it comforted her that he was healing. She blushed at his words and stared at his broad chest, not wanting to risk looking at his handsome face. 

Of course curiosity won over her as she looked up at him and her brown eyes met his green. Feeling timid, she quickly looked away. It was another moment of distraction caused the magic to surged  back to her hands causing a harsh pinching feeling on her fingers. "Ow!" Alynia gasped in shock instinctively raising her hand to her mouth suckling innocently on her slightly singed digits. She looked back up at Eamon with an apologetic expression as Alynia tended to her hands. 

She looked evidently bemused at his question. "I wouldn't not have expected healing to be an unusual form of magic." the queen admitted humbly. "No one taught me... I really just wanted to help you. You seemed so much in discomfort." she tried to explain. "I'm not very good yet, but it appears that it's helping. I'm afraid I feel that's all I can do for the whip lash...." Alynia tried to summon the soft light once more concentrating on a large red line across his chest, but the light blinked out almost immediately. "I suspect it's because can't heal larger injuries yet... But it's looking much better still." The queen smiled softly. Alynia was feeling tired, a bit light headed from not being used to exerting too much magic. At the same time she felt a happy glow resonate within her, whether this was because of magic or simply her own emotions she did not know. "Where else does it hurt?" she asked, looking at Eamon with an cute earnest face. Alynia wanted to do as much as she could. 

“There is no need to apologize,” Eamon chimed. Why should she apologize for doing something that had felt so good. Yeah he knew that it was unintentional and not meant to be arousing in the least though it certain;y had an effect that he tried to ignore. After all he did not wish to embarrass the queen and realized that she was human after all. Though some humans he had learned had been fey-like in nature with the regards to sexuality it certainly was not the norm.

He chuckled at her words. “I guess not, but I am your servant and you have that pregotive to ignore or ddisbelieve anything that I say.”

Her touch had felt so wonderful as she brought it over him, that green light easing the aches that he felt, closing wounds and leasoning others. But as she drew her away to place into her mouth he smiled at her.

She made her apologies but he shook his head holding up a hand to still her. “It is alright, do not expend all of your energy, we still have to get out of here after all.” He dared to touch her as she went back to heal him, his fingers wrapping over her wrist, he nodded a little.

“Really, I am fine.” He smiled at her then. “Good enough to get out of here and I would appreciate some of that healing later on. “

He had listened to her explanation on magic, looked at her with those green eyes of his. It was hard keeping eye contact though, hard to keep his gaze from drifting down but he did it nonetheless. “Oberron doesn't know healing magic. The Arts as they are called are the province of holy men and women. It is divine magic, whereas Oberron can teach you all sorts of arcane magic divine magic often springs about by faith.

“Since you are not a believer, I assume, then perhaps it is your blind faith that Oberron will come here that gives you the power of belief necessary to channel divine magic.

“Many acoyltes spend years just gaining enough faith and devotion to channel the simplest of prayers and other divine magic. It is usually less flashy though can bend luck and reality better than arcane magic. Typically you channel a small power of the gods and it is in a way a manifestation of the power of the deity that enhances any effect. The more you believe, the greater the results.”

Eamon stood, “you did well, nothing is unbearable or even hurts that bad. Really. I fact.” He closed his eyes, concentrated for half a minute or so then conjured a cloak, green and full that he handed to her though he snuck a glance at the curve of her breast.

He concentrated again, taking just as long for it seemed that he was no good at summoning and a few lock picks materialized in his hand.

“I was not always a soldier. In my youth a few centuries back I was a bit of a bad boy you can say.” He smirked. “A good thing too.”

He moved to the door, studied the lock then went about picking it. It took a lot longer than it did in the movies, real lock picking always did so in a matter of minutes there was a clicking sound, he tested the door and cracked it opened. It was unlocked and Eamon turned back to her with a smile on his lips.

The glow disappeared as he reached up to grasp her wrist. The queen looked up at him with interest. “Well, if you say it’s alright for now…” Alynia hesitantly agreed. She seemed much more at ease as the elf looked much healthier after she had put in her efforts. Alynia had a look of disbelief at his explanation, “I don’t know about blind faith. If you believe it so then I have no reason to believe you’re wrong.” All of this complex information about the magic she had simply just performed interested her. To be quite frank she didn’t even believe that it was such an extravagant feat. She smiled sweetly, “I’ll ask my husband next time I see him.” Alynia stated simply.

She watched him concentrate and suddenly materialized a cloak. “Thank you” She chirped at his compliments and the clothing. Alynia accepted the heavy emerald cloth graciously, standing up to pull it over her shoulders. The cloth was a bit coarse, but warm. It was a wonderful feeling to have clothes on her back again. Alynia laughed, “Oh I can hardly believe that.” She teased before putting on a thoughtful expression. “I had always thought members of Oberron’s guard were all nobility. Was I wrong to think so?” She wondered out loud as he picked the lock of the cell door.

Alynia watched with curiosity as he worked, she agreed it was a very useful skill to hone. It took a bit, but soon enough the lock clicked open. She clapped softly with an approving manner. “Very nice” She remarked quietly as he cracked open the door. Alynia squinted her eyes at the sudden increase of brightness in the room. The gears in her head were running again. A part of her said that it would be a bad idea to leave, she had experienced enough to fear any form of punishment that would be inflicted if they were caught. At the same time, she looked back into the dreary dim jail. Yes, she decided she would very much rather leave.

“Then let’s go.” Alynia pulled the clock tighter around herself as together they pushed open the door. They were met with a large spiral staircase going both directions up and down within the tower they had been kept in. The coast was clear as far as Alynia could see. Obviously none of the jail keepers had expected any prisoner to be able to open their chains. Yes, it seemed that Esper would be in trouble indeed.

“I would assume down would be the way to go.” Alynia muttered as they began to quietly and cautiously descend the twisted rickety iron stair case. The tower was brighter than the cell that had held them, but it was still rather dark. Large orange torch lights lit each circular level. Each level hosted a few closed doors. Alynia could only assume each hosted other prisoners. Alynia decided it was a very strategic location for a prison to be in the center of the castle. She realized its location really made it more difficult to escape the fortress. They walked with quiet quick steps until they reached the bottom of the tower.

They stood silently outside a slightly larger door. Alynia assumed opening it would mean that they would have successfully made it into the main portion of the castle. She hoped Eamon knew what he was doing. She was nervously tugging the clock closer to herself as she wondered how many minions would actually be roaming the castle. “Do you by any chance know a way to disguise ourselves?” she whispered doubtfully since this was a power she was confident she could not yet complete. Either way, the queen knew that that they would not be turning back. “We need to get to a place where the prince and Esper cannot find us and a place where Marduke and his team can…” she muttered.

“Yes, ask Oberron he knows better about the ways of magic and the different types of it. I have theories of course but my understanding of such things is very limited of course. As you can probably guess your a thousand times better at this magic stuff then I. But having divine gifts and arcane ones is a rare treat,” he nodded at that. “You are not the only one that can do it of course but your husband does not possess the gift of divine magic. He is rather accomplished with arcane types, conjurations, summoning, enchantments, illusions those are his weapons of choice. Elemental magic too back in the day, I hear that he could command the powers of storms though since I was born he was imprisoned so all I've heard was hear say.” He was younger than Oberron and was not old by fey standards though he had already professed to living a few centuries.

As he worked on the lock of the door he spoke. The cloak was the least he could do after all and it served to cover up her distracting breasts too. “Not all, his Lord's royal guards are knights and some are landed nobles. I am but a soldier and was assigned to Marduke's lands first as an envoy and later because they needed someone to keep an eye on the Prince and I being a scout slash diplomat slash soldier was the ideal canidate to stay behind and inform the others about what was going on here. It was what I found that they knew the best approaches and where the native species lived to avoid them.”

He bowed as she clapped. A little smile on his lips as he dismissed the tools. “Glad I still got it,” he said to her before checking the hall for guards. There were none and he figured that the Prince was probably confident that Alynia would not make it this far. He crept out into the hall, gazed back to her and saw that moment of indecison before she followed.

They descended into the depths of the tower effectually coming to the bottom most level. Now was not the time to be skitterish. He glanced towards Alynia at that moment. He nodded briefly. “I can do some illusions there is a problem though with disguising ourselves though. I can only do so for a short portion of time.”

He sighed, looked at the door before them then back at her. “Then let's hope I am lucky again today, I have thus far outside of the whole torture thing of course and even that was brief. I got locked into your cell, was fortunate enough that the manacles did not close all the way, got to meet you and now have the opportunity to escape from this place. So why aren't my legs moving?” Nerves have taking hold he stood there for a moment as he considered.

“There is a Western gate guarded by two Dark Creepers that they brought me through, if my luck holds then so will the illusion until we are through it. It may be some time before we get back to Marduke. We have to avoid the dragon and descend down a mountain, avoid any native creatures that are hostile in nature, which is about all of them then we are scot free.

He turned to her sharply then kissed her rather briefly on the lips. “For luck.”

Motes swirled around them transforming their outward appearance to conform to a pair of Dark Creepers. She appeared as a male now, for there seemed to be no female Dark Creepers. It was now or never. “Don't speal, Dark Creepers cannot speak and hopefully they don't try to make contact with us. They communicate via telepahy.

He then took a deep breath and opened the door.

"I hope luck is on your side as well..." Alynia muttered quietly also bracing herself for what was beyond the door ahead of them. The queen felt the rush of apdrenaline pump through her. She couldnt help but wonder how short of a period of time thier disguises would last and how far away was the western gate was located. Since she was brought here she had not seen any other room besides the prison tower and a composition of curiosity, anticipation, as well as fear surged through her.

But then his lips were upon hers. Although contact was brief, Alynia squeaked in surprise and blushed as he pulled away. For a few seconds she was stunned, completely not expecting such an action but she reminded herself if sex was a normality among the fey, kisses must mean even less. "Yes, for luck." Alynia agreed still a bit flustered. An odd thought crossed her mind of how glad she as that her husband understood he differences between fey and human customs. She wondered if Eamon was aware of these differences... But she did not dwell on the thought. 

Her mind was brought back to the topic on hand as the two of them transformed into the short, disgusting, bizzare looking creature. Being under illusion was a new experience for Alynia. She still felt like herself and her body felt no different. In fact when she raised her own hand she did not see the dirt coated claws hand of a night crawler but she saw her own palm. But looking at her shadow fasted by the torch, she could see her form had completely changed. Short, grimy, seemingly covered in layers of clothing... thats what she assumed atleast looking at the previously handsome elf, now a replica of a minion of the prince. 

Though she shuddered unused to the odd idea she did not look like how she felt as well as the plain repulsiveness of the Dark Creeper she now was, Alynia nodded her head as of she understood the idea to not speak. Then without further warning the door was pushed open. 

They were met with a lavish gothically decorated corridor. The floor was stone, but a long red carpet extended as far as Alynia could see. Walls had ornate black candles burning away with an orange flame. She deduced that he flame was real, but the candle itself was probably magic so that it wouldn't melt all too readily. They were probably below ground level as it was cold. Even though her illusion was covered in tattered rags, that did nothing to fend off the chill from her real body covered in nothing but a cloak. Though Alynka decided it was a step up from the dungeons back at Sable's castle, she didn't like the eerie feeling the place gave her.

She followed Eamon to the direction she could only assume was west. Walking quickly, but doing what they could to remain casual like they belonged and had a purpose here. Alynia did her best to concentrate on where Eamon was heading, and not observe her new surroundings. As they walked they passed a few Dark Creepers but as far as Alynia could tell they did not acknowledge them as the pair pressed foward.

She desperately wanted to speak, ask how far they would be traveling but she couldn't in fear of giving up their identity. They walked until they were met with a straight staircase leading upward. The queen had been right about being in a lower floor. As they reached the top of the ascending stairwell, Alynia's eyes expects to be met with daylight, but she was incorrect. There were windows, but heavy dark violet curtains had been drawn on each one. It was obvious that Gersham as well as his minions preferred the darkness.

Eamon could tell that the action had surprised hher. That kiss lingered against his lips and while she ws left to wonder about how knowledgeable he had been regarding human-fey customs she had said nothing to the effect of turning him aside.

He looked to the door, took a deep breath then opened it. Candle lit had greeted them as they exited out into the chamber, refraining from taking much time as Eamon had already warned about the length of his illusions. He was no Oberron and concentrating on their appearance took a great deal of effort of his part.

Even so they moved along darkened corridors, even passed by a dew Dark Creepers but fortune had smiled upon them as they had not been acknowledged.

The air was chilled though much warmer than their cell. Alynia had theorized that they had been underground and Eamon moved along the corridor in the direction that he had remembered being taken in.

They soon came to a set of stairs and Alynia found that she had been right to assume that they were underground in some basement area.

Eamon nodded, they ascended a floor passing by a wandering troll that paused, sniffed the air then glanced at the two as if the scent did not match up with their appearance. It trailed them at a distance for a bit as if it had figured something out or was in the process of determining that something was amiss.

Fortune smiled on them as another scent, perhaps that of the roasting chicken that they began to inhale from the mess hall reached out to their senses. Once again they had been lucky.

So very, very lucky.

They passed by a few more Dark Creepes in the dimly lit castle. Soon they came to a large reinforced door that they passed through, squinting at the brillance out here from the daylight that had washed over them. It was much warmer than inside the basement of the castle or the room in the tower.

There were a few buildings inside the boundries of the castle surrounded by a thick stone wall with a tower at each corner. Trolls and Dark Creepers were on the crenallations of the wall and their were several Dark Creepers dispersed throughout the courtyard.

As they moved toward the western gate nerves settled in, nerves of being discovered as they approached the gate the two guards their would clearly address them. What then but Eamon said nothing as they approached. He glanced at her, nodded as they approached for some sort of assurance before they got to the gate and the two guards there.

Halt. Explain.

The Prince desires us to assisted Em ... He paused, could he not rember her name? Was he going to say Embe again. We are to assist Esper in the search and scouting for the nearby army. Master does not trust her on her own.

The guards did not seem to question the Prince's orders and thankfully were more dim witted then oblins where they dismissed the near slip as something natural so they opened up the gate and let them out a few steps further and Eamon sighed. That bout of telepathy had taken a lot out of him and his efforts to hold everything together had been downright remarkable thus far. Still he maintained the illusions until they were out of sight, which, thankfullly was not long given the terrain.

The illusion dropped and so did Eamon as he fell to his knees gasping in exhaution as if he had been holding his breath all that time, at least that was the only thing that Alynia could have compared it too.

“Let us rest for a moment, I can't get much further."

Luck and luck again dawned upon them… almost to the point where Alynia thought it was a bit too easy. She felt her heart had stopped when a troll had stopped to look at them, but this did not change the creature’s suspicions as a new scent wafted into the hallway. She felt bad as the queen had no choice but to let Eamon handle the telepathy, she assumed they were communicating. She could hear nothing; only examine the guardians of the gate as the looked at each other, then back at the escapees before letting them through the gate.

They walked beyond the walls of the castle. Fortunately the building was imbedded on the edge of a rocky mountain like terrain and they did not have to walk far to be out of sight. Pressing forward with all of his might, Alynia did what she could to support Eamon letting him lean against her flickering disguised form as they headed onward. It was only when Alynia determined they were a safe distance away did she lead him behind a large rock formation.

As he fell to his knees, Alynia ducked down catching him. The wavering illusions suddenly disappeared completely. She helped him sit up against the rock formation looking at him with a soft smile. “You did amazing” She told him comfortingly embracing him in a tight hug. She looked back at the elf’s tired expression and hesitated. “At this moment time is not really something we can take for granted, but please reserve your energy for now. We can keep moving when you feel well.” Alynia said kindly, truly concerned for his welfare. He seemed so exhausted; she didn’t know if there was something she could do. Cuts and bruises were one thing because they were evidently visible, but being worn out was different. It was clearly seen Eamon was fatigued; he was having such difficulty breathing. Alynia wished she knew how to help him.

She looked around at the mountainous region they were in. There were rocks everywhere she turned her head. Most were jagged, sharp and threatening, but a there were moss, and a few trees scattered around the area. The queen was aware that they were heading into the midst of Cinder’s territory, but she could not see any movement of any creatures currently. She was a bit scared of course. Out of the castle brought a whole new set of dangers, not to mention the risk that would be upon them if their get away was to be discovered. It was daylight for now, but the rescue party was to be here at night fall. Some how they would have to stay hidden until then, but Alynia knew that certainly as night fell more creatures they might have to encounter. She sighed, understanding the sensitivity of the situation. If her desperation had exceeded her good nature, then she might have demanded that the elf to continue. But she did not want to strain him, she wanted him to rest. To heal.

She sighed feeling empathetic of his weariness. The queen sat down besides the elf on her knees. She patted her lap, offering to give Eamon a place to rest his head. She was looking at him with a concerned face. A friendly act of course, for Alynia thought at least she would be softer than the stone he leaned against.

They had been barely out of the castle when the illusion waivered, fortune was on their side theat either no one was looking or they had been far enough away that the deception wasn't readily noticed but Eamon further proved to be Alynia's good luck charm as no minions were rallied to go after them.

He was weary, exhausted it appeared though he tried valiantly to suck up things. He was well too aware of his fatigue, well too aware that his magic had drained him this much but all too aware that they were still in dangerous territory being here.

Thus he would not have long to dwell here and would have to begin moving again soon. But not now. Certainly not now though as he was in the midst of pondering how long it would be before rescue, or how long it would be before they were discovered missing he figured that they were still in rough shape.

The rescue party did not know that they escaped and might be coming in from another point, clearly Corte would use his royal seal to telporta as close to where he suspected the queen to be as possible so chancing by the team would be rare at best.

Thus they were on their own and he was no Oberron or Corte. He could not hope to defy such incredible odds. So if they were going to escape from this mess it would be up to them. They could not hope to be rescued though they were coming upon Cinder's territory now. The conceited thing about dragons was that they deemed all that they could see as their territory thus Gersham's castle was only there because he allowed Gersham it … for now at least, they shared common goals though as Alynia offered up her lap to him he was confused at first, stunned that she would allow him so close though he realized that she thought nothing of it.

He complied though, resting his head on her lap, feeling the warmth of her skin. It was a cool warmth for she had not been outside long enough to totally warm up but a start cry from the coldness that swept over her skin.

He rested for a bit, delighting in that closeness perhaps more than she would knpw though after a moment he pulled away struggling to his feet. He still looked pale but there was no time, they would be discovered any moment and as if on cue he spotted it. Thankfully it was too lofty to have seen them, and Eamon coaxed her to the side of the rock and pressed up against It until the manticore, one of Gersham's minions was well out of sight where he sighed.

A manticore had a lions body, the head of a human, bat-like wings and a spiked tail that it could launch volley from.

“That was a bit too close! Come, I scouted out a cave nearby some time back. It is too dangerous to move about until the late evening at least. While the dragon's senses won't be effected the manticore's see no better than humans and we can hopefully make some progress down the mountain. Elves see much better than humans and while it might be diffult to lead you I will carry you on my back if necessary.”

He seemed to mean it though he didn't loook to be up to that. Then again maybe there was something about the power of determination she did not know about.

He lead her to the cave, a small one that the two could sequester themselves in. He then addressed her. “We are on our own. The rescuerers are going to go to the castle to find us not here. If anyone is likely to find us it will be Gersham's minions. I had not considered it in my excitement of being free, I am sorry my highness, I should have considered it.

“That is not to say that we cannot do this though … I do not have the power currently to do much magically.” He paused, considered and seemed to be about to say something but stopped and thought the matter through a bit.

Alynia tilted her head in confusion as he hesitated to rest upon her, but the elf eventually giving into his weariness and placed his tired head onto her legs. Obviously more comfortable than the solid rocking ground, Alynia felt she was doing the right thing in assisting him as she could. They relaxed for a moment, as Alynia gently stroked his long mangled hair, a simply caring gesture that showed both gratitude and concern.

But much before Alynia would have wanted him to, Eamon hoisted himself up. He was still pale and shaky, but atleast he was standing. The queen followed his gaze, her eyes met the fearsome body of the manticore. She stiffed a gasp as Eamon pulled her aside to a side of the boulder where they hopefully would not be noticeable. Alynia covered her mouth with one of her hands, scared that she would make some involuntary noise of fear or suspense. Thankfully, fortune was still with them as the manticore walked by without a second glance at the structure they hid behind.

Alynia had no objections to resting in a cave. To be quite honest, she was not all too tired. Shaken up, certainly, but not fatigued. She agreed to rest for her guard's sake. One look was all it took to notice he could barely continue. "Yes, then maybe it would be better to travel by night fall..." she repeated though a bit unsure thinking how Gersham's minions would probably be more plentiful at that time... Even though it wasn't for the same reason as Eamon, she wanted to rest and wanted the elf to gain back his strength. "If you push yourself too hard it will be I who will carry you." she joked looping his arm around her shoulder, holding him up as he walked. 

He lead her to a small cave. Though it was tall enough for Alynia to stand upright and wide enough for the two of them to sit of even lie down with much room to spare, it was still a rather small cave. She wondered how Eamon even came by it, but she did not bring this up. "It's a perfect place to bide our time." she praised pleased with the location.

The queen paused and pursed her lips at his words. "Yes... That is rather foolish." she admitted sitting down some distance from the elf. "But what is done is done. Because I have no intention of retracing our steps, we might as well just stay here to wait until we can move again. Nothing we can do until then." she sighed realizing that in a way she had known this all along, but still came along with him. She shook her head with a smile of disbelief. "Besides, I'm not too sure how much longer of that jail cell I could have handled." 

Alynia glanced at Eamon with a look of interest as he seemed he wanted to say something by was thinking it over before he did. Tilting her head with curiosity, Alynia wanted to know what was running through Eamon's head. "Yes?" she inquired urging him to continue.