On the march with Turid and some news...

A stiff breeze stings your exposed neck, making you wrap your scarf tighter around your neck. "The mornings grow colder Turid… winter will come soon." You point out as you ride your horse alongside Turid, Azul, and your personal guard... compliments of the Company.

"Yes... all the more reason we must strike hard and fast." Turid replies, his eyes wandering over to Azul. "I wonder if it was wise to bring her along unlike the others...?"

"She's a fighter Turid and I trust her... something I cannot say about you." You reply, looking over at Azul who smiles slightly at you.

"Never good to fight with those you have feelings for... in the end Prince John I won't protect her and nor should you..." He says sternly.

"I won't need protection..." Azul snaps back, "I am more than capable of taking care of myself..."

"Hmmm spoken like an Orc... always overconfident." Turid says with a smile.

"John you really should let me go to my people... they are less than a days ride from here and I can bring us many more warriors..." Azul says, looking at Turid with suspicion. "Warriors that we can trust."

"If you want to send your Orc mistress away that's your choice Prince... but I will not wait for them and the roads here are fraught with danger. If she never returns I will not allow you or any of my men to look for her." He says coldly smiling as he adds, "Besides hasn't she told you...?"

"Told me what...?" You ask curiously, looking over at Azul who glares at Turid.

"You bastard! I told you I would tell him when the time is right!" She snaps at him.

"Well I apologize..." Turid says sarcastically before he continues, "You see Azul here was seen by our medics for an illness this morning... perhaps I should let her tell you."

Looking at Azul, she turns to you and says, "I didn't want you to leave me behind John… but..." Pausing, she smiles as she says, "I'm pregnant..."

Your smile says it all, and Azul takes your hand and pulls it to her stomach, leaning over towards your horse she whispers, "Now I'm truly yours until ****..."

"Keep that crap up and I'll ride ahead..." Turid says shaking his head at your affection. Pointing at you he says sternly, "Now do you still want to let her ride off alone...? I will not tolerate distractions... and if she's captured you cannot let her be used against you."

"John please.. I promise I will return as I know these lands... let me get you the troops you need..." Azul begs.

You pause for a moment, knowing the roads are dangerous and not to mention Enzo could very well still be alive and out there somewhere... In her condition being harmed would have consequences for what grows within her... and as Turid pointed out, if she is captured she could be used against you....