Snippet #1516563

"Well, be fair," Secru began, trying not to ignore the fact that his stalker - just as he'd hoped - was beautiful indeed! Even that weird arrangement of bones she wore tied to her clothing was cute - in a very fierce sort of way! "They did attack me. I'd have been happy to ride on by, if - what the - ??!!!"

His words were cut off by a purply-blue bolt of pure essence that came from nowhere, grounding in the earth between the feet of Secru and the stalker, with an explosion that kicked up dust. The lightning fast reflexes that were a byword in his native province came into play, and he flung himself at the stalker, dragging her down and away from the blast. To his credit, the move to protect her had been instinctive and not calculated, though even as they landed on the ground with a thump he was congratulating himself that it was an act of chivalry that would, hopefully, find its way into his legend! As she sprawled, the already immodest shirt she wore rode upwards, revealing a quite immodest amount of midriff that looked somewhat undignified. Frankly, he'd have preferred some subtle eye-contact before hurling himself at her - actions like that could get a guy a reputation!

Reluctantly, he tore his eyes from the sight, and turned in the direction of the threat, reaching for his sword.

There stood a dark-skinned, bulky individual, presenting open palms to them in a dramatic gesture - someone who's almost as vain as me, was Secru's first thought - and then he took in the prayer-beads, the wizard-like attire, the look in the eyes. This was no cut-rate hedge wizard. They were in the presence of something powerful. And if he wasn't mistaken, that was leather armor under that robe!

"I think, sir," he began "That you might be mistaken about myself, at least. I'm no peddler, selling double roofing-thatch or fast-horse messenger services, but a legitimate caller. I can't answer for the lady here, since we've just met, but let me assure you-"

He watched the wizard's hands carefully as he babbled, trying to guess his intention. His hand was still an inch from his sword.