Gimme Shelter

You stop and consider for a moment. You know that you and Trevolia have to stop running sooner or later. Although you clearly have shown to be well suited to the adventuring life, this isn't the life you wanted, or were meant for. You're used to the finer things in life, a life of comfort. Trevolia is used to that as well, and even though Joan and Lita aren't, they're as deserving of that priveleged existence as anyone. And, just maybe, you could have a chance to do what you do best, and speak to reveal the truth, and stop all of this madness.

"Ma'am", you began "my friends and I would be gracious hosts to the King. We don't wish to impose, but there is specific reward he might grant us."

"Oh?" Her eyebrows raised, curious and suspicious "that's bold of you, to make a request of a gift coming from a king."

"I assure you Governor, the reason is well founded. My friends and I ask for Sanctuary as Refugees."

"Refugees?" Her eyes darted between the four of you, squinting as she tried to piece together what she was hearing. "Wait" her eyes went quite large as she leaned back slightly. As she straightened her body out, her hands clasped behind her back. "I've heard word from the east of three traitors to Shazo. An orc, who **** the Princess and the Queen, took the former hostage, working in conspiracy with a Drow insurrectionist and saboteur, before fleeing the capital and eventually the kingdom altogether. Word is that the King has put a heavy reward for anyone who will put this right. Rumors are, he'll pay any price."

You felt a hard lump in your throat, as you fear if you overplayed your hand, and how difficult it would be to fight your way out of this beleaguered city. Trevolia grasped your hand tightly as well, seemingly fearful as well. The governor smiled "Of course, I was told to look for the princess and a noble, in a group of three. I see before me a group of four, and no dainty princesses or monstrous orc rapists in present company. Clearly, a case of mistaken identities there, wouldn't you agree Captain?" She turned to one of the guards behind her. A veteran soldier by the looks of him, with a strong frame but wearing the years of battle and service on his face.

"Agree wholeheartedly Ma'am. No match at all with what we've been asked to keep a look out for."

"Indeed" She turned back to you "Now, I can't make any promises on behalf of King Lien. He will hear you out, I can say that much. He is reliant on the word of his advisors, remnants from his father's reign. It won't be enough to impress him, you will need to make your case to a more learned and cautious group. The situation in court is dynamic and complicated, and I cannot make any guess as to what may happen on your arrival. I can say this much; I will personally ensure that you reach the walls of Castle Moro."

Joan spoke up, angrily "I hate to be the dark cloud here, but I don't need sanctuary. If the two of you are going back to your ivory towers and put everything you just went through behind you, than I don't even want to know you. And why are you bringing her into this?" As she pointed to Lita "She did nothing wrong, she's not implicated into your bad decisions at all." You saw some raw emotion in her eyes that she was constraining. There was something she needed to let out, but couldn't, and so started to head off. Quickly, but gently, you put a hand on her shoulder.

"Hey now. Let's not get a head of ourselves. You make it sound like Trevolia's going to marry the King or something. I can guarantee you nothing of that sort is going to happen. Besides, you can't go now. We've been through too much together, and we need you."

"Really?" She was defiant and distrusting as ever "Who's we?" Trevolia and Joan both approached her with gentle head nods, confirming your statement.

"You don't have to be alone Joan" You added. "Come on, what are you so afraid of? Afraid you might enjoy putting down roots?"

"Silve, there's a lot I haven't told you." There was a pained, **** tone as she spoke, as if speaking against her will. "I have my reasons for doing what I did. And those reasons are why I have to go. Trust me, you're better off without me from now on."

"Joan," Trevolia interceded "I don't believe that. We wouldn't have gotten where we are without you, and we still need you now. Whatever happened in the past, leave it there. I forgive you. Please, don't go."

The drow's eyes quivered at those final words. Something was finally starting to sink through to her, you thought. She smiled, meekly "You're all a bunch of sentimental fools, and you don't know what you're asking, but fuck me if you don't make a good case. Fine, let's go see this King."

"Very Good" The Governor made a slight bow with a practiced, cordial smile "We have courses at the ready. May Draenysis bless your journey."