You continue your Journey... with an interruption

You awake to a pair of familiar fangs nibbling at your ear as Azul whispers, "We should get going soon John…”

Stirring quickly, you roll onto your side and press your lips against hers, feeling them vibrate as she lets out a soft moan in response. A pair of hands wrapping around you from behind as Grace yawns and says with a smile, “Mmmm what are you two up to…?”

Breaking the kiss Azul says in a playful but stern tone, “We were just getting ready to leave…”

Giggling Grace teases, “I think I can feel his disappointment about that… I’ll heat up something for us.”

You and Azul quickly pack up your stuff as Grace warms up some oatmeal and apples for you. You eat quickly before heading out on the trail. The two girls smiling at you as they catch you eyeing them.

Azul leads the way as you trail behind her with Grace, the two of you carrying most of the supplies to let her scout ahead silently.

“I’m surprised you two are so… open minded.” Grace says with a smile, recalling yesterday’s fun.

Looking over her shoulder Azul replies, “Where I am from we don’t have such petty jealousies over our men. In fact, the more women our man takes the more valuable of a mate they are.”

“Sounds like a great place.” You say with a grin.

But Azul quickly points out, “You say that… but you do have responsibilities to every woman you take. Many men can’t stand more than two or three.”

Suddenly Azul freezes as she spots a wagon on the road, its driver crouched down and fumbling with its broken wheel.

“Should be go around…?” You whisper.

Azul shaking her head, “No… there is no way around where he won’t hear us anyway… better not to draw suspicion. But he on your guard.”

Walking down the road, Azul approaches the man and asks, “Need any help?”

The man freezes before he stands and takes a step toward Azul, his hood and a thick mask blocking his face.

Spooked, Azul reaches for her sword but the man quickly tosses a glass bottle at your feet. A thick mist emanating from it and the three of you fall to the ground. The last thing you see before you black out is the man standing over you before crouching down to examine your face.

As your vision fades, you hear him laughing as he utters in a strange accent, “It’s good to see you again John…”