Wanting no trouble, he turns it over

Autolycus sighed and pulled something out from under his cape. It was a jeweled box, closed with a pewter clasp.

"Here, take it," Autolycus said. "I couldnt open it here so I was going to get my tools."

Xena took the box and sighed. "You never change."

"Hey, I liked the challenge. Two women travelers who thought I was just looking for some action. I was, but it was different sort of action than they realized." The King of Thieves laughed at this. "Well, unless you want me to face the gallows, I think Id better leave. You'll allow me? After all, you've recovered the box so no harm, no foul."

Xena sighed and turned around (making sure she still had everything on her). She heard Autolycus leave via window as she made her way toward the stairs. It was on the stairs where two women came up, apparently following Gabrielle.

One of them saw the jeweled box in Xena's hands. "That is it! Thank you for recovering it!" The woman was small, even shorter than Gabrielle. She had red hair and was wearing a robe.

Xena handed her the box, at the same time noting the other woman. This woman was an obvious fighter given that she had a sword strapped to her belt. What was impressive about the woman (who had long blond hair) was that she was tall, even taller than Xena herself.

The redhead quickly related how Autolycus happened upon them traveling toward the tavern. He made some nice remarks toward her before her taller friend chased him off. But he was long gone by the time they realized he took their box.

"Well now you have it back," Xena said. "And don't worry. I'm sure the thief is long gone." Adding under her breath, "He better be if he knows what's good for him."

The red haired girl looked up. Xena realized how young she looked. "My name is Tassa. This is my older sister Hermallia. Actually, you could help us further if you can."

Xena and Gabrielle exchanged a look. This might be interesting, the Warrior Princess thought to herself. "All right. Gabrielle, get us a room and we can talk about what help you need from us."