{"id":2629,"date":"2019-03-16T07:44:54","date_gmt":"2019-03-16T12:44:54","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/?p=2629"},"modified":"2019-03-31T07:28:58","modified_gmt":"2019-03-31T12:28:58","slug":"lucky-luck-part-5","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/?p=2629","title":{"rendered":"Lucky Luck – Part 5"},"content":{"rendered":"

Lucky Luck<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n

by AJ Marks<\/span><\/p>\n

Part 5: A Lucky Problem<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Gwen made her way along the path, or at least what path she could make out in the snow.\u00a0 The sun\u2019s rays had melted it a bit, making it not very deep, unlike the knee deep it had been two days earlier.\u00a0 They stayed a day longer in the cave then she expected, but felt it had been worth it.\u00a0 She had not seen the group after them, and checked a few times for footprints of groups going the opposite way, but saw nothing.<\/p>\n

She glanced back to her little lover, following the same footsteps she used.\u00a0 Zoe\u2019s footwear was not as hardy as Gwen\u2019s, and she wore an older cloak that Gwen no longer used for warmth.<\/p>\n

\u201cGwen?\u201d Zoe asked, as Gwen stopped to look back at her.\u00a0 She had an excited look in her eyes making Gwen wonder what had gone through that mind of hers now as she hopped over to stand next to her.<\/p>\n

Yeah?\u201d Gwen replied, waiting to hear the question.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo I get lover\u2019s rights?\u201d Zoe asked, causing Gwen to frown.\u00a0 Where has this come from?<\/p>\n

\u201cLover\u2019s rights?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, you know,\u201d Zoe said, looking uncertain.\u00a0 She looked down at the snow before briefly looking up at Gwen and continuing.\u00a0 \u201cThe right to touch you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen smiled understanding the question and hesitation from Zoe.\u00a0 \u201cYou mean like this,\u201d Gwen aid, bending down and giving her a quick kiss, while allowing her hands to slide under the cloak finding exposed skin to caress.<\/p>\n

\u201cYikes,\u201d Zoe squealed, jumping back from Gwen.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re hands are freezing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou could warm them up,\u201d Gwen said with a grin, holding out her hands while approaching Zoe.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot here you don\u2019t,\u201d Zoe replied, firmly closing the cloak to prevent Gwen from gaining any access to the soft warm skin, but instead was enveloped in a hug.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoes this answer your question?\u201d Gwen said, looking down at Zoe.<\/p>\n

\u201cUm, yeah, I think so,\u201d Zoe said after a few seconds.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou do, but also use your head,\u201d Gwen said in all honesty.\u00a0 \u201cNot everyone is comfortable with same-sex partners, especially the techmage guild, think everything should be natural and mechanical, one part must fit the other and two like parts don\u2019t go together.\u00a0 Idiots in my opinion,\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll try to remember that,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have no doubt about that,\u201d Gwen replied, turning to start back down the trail, she heard footsteps coming down the trail.\u00a0 She felt nothing out of the ordinary, waiting for what might come next.<\/p>\n

A group heading in the opposite direction.\u00a0 The first people she had seen in several days, not including the group after her and Zoe.\u00a0 They appeared as normal travelers, and little threat of anything.\u00a0 They said hello while passing and continued on their way after relaying information of raiders and road conditions.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey seemed nice,\u201d Zoe said, a few minutes later.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, on the way to do some business in a town, probably able to finally travel after the storm,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess so,\u201d Zoe said.\u00a0 \u201cHave you been to this town coming up?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNope, but it\u2019s one of the ones on the way to Setta that we can rest at, we won\u2019t be able to make all the way to Setta today,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, we spend the night in the next town,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, we also need to resupply,\u201d Gwen said, knowing their food supplies were getting low now.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, shopping,\u201d Zoe said, her voice rising in excitement.<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing good about shopping, crowded, filled with thieves and criminals, and I\u2019m not even talking about the pick-pockets either, and don\u2019t get me started about the kids always running underfoot, can\u2019t see them,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s because you\u2019re too tall,\u201d Zoe replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe you\u2019re too short,\u201d Gwen replied back.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou calling me short?\u201d Zoe asked, giving Gwen a slight push.<\/p>\n

She stopped to look down at Zoe, grinning before giving her reply.\u00a0 \u201cYep, you\u2019re lucky that being short is cute though.\u201d<\/p>\n

She watched Zoe open and close her mouth a few times before finally replying.\u00a0 \u201cNo fair, I was going to use that one.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGotta be quick,\u201d Gwen shot back.\u00a0 \u201cCome on, let\u2019s get to town so we can get out of this snow.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t have to tell me twice,\u201d Zoe said, as they continued on their way.<\/p>\n

Gwen mentally counted to ten before Zoe brought another question, this time talking about why the sky was blue.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

Gwen entered the town with Zoe right beside her.\u00a0 The town appeared well defended, and a medium size for the Shadowlands.\u00a0 Gwen figured the town was large due to the fact if was on the path between two of the large trading town in the area.<\/p>\n

Looking around the townfolk were getting ready for the midday meal, and looked at them.\u00a0 She realized that most of the time people walking probably did not arrive until much later in the day.\u00a0 Gwen felt relieved that the crowds of the town were not that large, which would allow her to relax a bit more.<\/p>\n

They made their way through the streets and towards the inn.\u00a0 Gwen hoped it would be mostly empty allowing her to get a good room instead of whatever was left over.\u00a0 They had the creds to afford something nice.\u00a0 Walking into the inn, everything appeared clean, a few patrons sitting down to eat, as she made her way up to the counter with Zoe following.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello, what can I do for you?\u201d the innkeeper asked,\u00a0\u00a0 She studied him for a few seconds, tall with red hair which stood out in a crowd.<\/p>\n

\u201cLooking for a nice room,\u201d Gwen answered.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne or two?\u201d he asked, looking over her and Zoe.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne\u2019s fine,\u201d Gwen said with a pleasant smile.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re finest room.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d he said, looking them over once more.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re lucky, was full up since the storm came through, had most leave this morning when things seemed to clear up.\u00a0 How many nights you staying?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cProbably one,\u201d Gwen replied, looking over at Zoe.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd can we get a warm bath and a meal please,\u201d Zoe asked, cutting into the conversation.\u00a0 Gwen merely waited to see what the innkeeper would say.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan do,\u201d he said.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019ll be fifteen creds for all that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSounds fair\u201d Gwen answered, pulling out the number of coins and handing them over.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m Jonnas, and my daughter is Missy, she runs the bathing area, let her know when you\u2019re ready for your bath,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d Zoe said, as Gwen took the key to the room.\u00a0 She watched as Zoe walked over to the girl Jonnas pointed out, also red hair and figured they were family.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnxious for a bath?\u201d Gwen asked as she returned and they headed towards the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomething like that, and I want to warm up a bit,\u201d Zoe replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, we\u2019ll put our stuff up and go the bathing room,\u201d Gwen said, privately wanting a bath as well.\u00a0 She had gotten spoiled in the cave over the past day.<\/p>\n

Entering the room, she spotted the large bed which would fit them both comfortably, along with the nice table, and couple of chairs, off to the one side a wash basin and what looked to be running water.\u00a0 Placing her backpack onto the table she looked over at Zoe, who hung up her cloak on the rack, before taking Gwen\u2019s cloak and doing the same thing.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, we stay here tonight and head off to Setta in the morning, that\u2019s the plan?\u201d Zoe asked, looking back over.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, from what I\u2019ve heard it takes about a day to travel to Setta from here, most stop here, I imagine it\u2019ll start getting crowded as it gets later in the day.\u00a0 We might as well take advantage of it now.\u00a0 Of course if you have a horse you might be able to make the trip a bit quicker,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen I can restock our supplies this afternoon in the market place,\u201d Zoe said, looking out the window.\u00a0 Gwen came over, looking at the market, seeing a few people walk around before a knock at the door interrupted them.\u00a0 Standing at the door was Missy.<\/p>\n

\u201cYour bath is ready,\u201d she said.\u00a0 \u201cLeft door at the end of the hall.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d Zoe said, getting a coin out of the purse and handing it to her.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you require anything else, please let me know,\u201d Missy said, smiling at Zoe, her thanks apparent.\u00a0 Little things like that could help you out later on Gwen had learned.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you coming?\u201d Zoe asked, grabbing some towels before looking over at Gwen.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell gee, what a tough decision, stay here in this nice, but boring room, or follow a young, sexy girl who wants me to get her wet,\u201d Gwen said, grinning at Zoe, who blushed slightly at the words.\u00a0 \u201cTough decision.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cKeep that up and you\u2019ll be bathing alone,\u201d Zoe finally said.<\/p>\n

\u201cRemember, you asked for this,\u201d Gwen answered, grabbing the key, locking the door and following Zoe down to the bathing chamber.<\/p>\n

Gwen felt the heat from the steam rising off the water the moment they entered the room.\u00a0 The bathtub, she noticed, could easily hold two comfortably.\u00a0 Quickly stripping out of her clothes watching as Zoe did the same.<\/p>\n

Gwen realized Zoe was watching each movement she made as the younger girl barely realized what she was doing.\u00a0 Pulling off the last of her clothing, she stood covering nothing, watching Zoe\u2019s eyes look her over, even as she closed the distance between the two of them.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou like?\u201d Gwen whispered, blowing into the ear, seeing the slight shiver.<\/p>\n

\u201cUn-huh,\u201d Zoe replied, her voice quiet.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, I\u2019ll be waiting for you in the tub,\u201d Gwen said, turning around and getting into the tub, settling down in the tub and watched Zoe who managed to shake off her stupor.\u00a0 She took off her panties and headed over to the tub.\u00a0 Gwen took her time studying Zoe\u2019s body once more, even as Zoe realized it, she half covered herself.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, you have nothing to be embarrassed about,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cBesides, I thought you were used to prancing around naked?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that was knowing you were trying not to look, it was like a game,\u201d Zoe replied.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s different knowing that you are looking.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen leaned back slightly making room for Zoe, as she climbed into the tub.\u00a0 With Zoe\u2019s backside to Gwen, she took advantage as she had one foot in the tub exposing her treasures.\u00a0 She reached out cupping her sex, getting a squeak of surprise from Zoe.<\/p>\n

\u201cVery nice,\u201d Gwen said, rubbing her finger along the folds.<\/p>\n

\u201cUm,\u201d Zoe said, as Gwen continued her massage, before slipping a finger into the folds.\u00a0 \u201cG-Gwen, ah,\u201d a low moan interrupted anything else Zoe was about to say before she managed to collect her thoughts.\u00a0 \u201cUm, c-can I get into the tub at least?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I guess so,\u201d Gwen said, relenting a bit and sat back to watch Zoe climb into the tub where she placed her arms around her stomach, and drew her closer.\u00a0 \u201cThis is nice and relaxing,\u201d Gwen finally said.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is,\u201d Zoe replied.\u00a0 Gwen felt her hand go further down her body, and half expected a return favor, surprised when Zoe started pleasure herself.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid I start something?\u201d Gwen whispered in Zoe\u2019s ear.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and if you don\u2019t finish it, I will,\u201d Zoe replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d Gwen said, hanging onto the younger woman.\u00a0 \u201cLet yourself go, I\u2019ve got you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen half expected some sort of protest for Zoe, but she continued on, as a hand came up to massage a breast.\u00a0 Taking a moment to nibble on the ear offered she did not have to wait long before Zoe tensed, her climax near.\u00a0 Watching Zoe\u2019s face as she gave a short cry, said her name, then went over.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo beautiful,\u201d Gwen said, giving the ear another nibble and feeling the shudder go through Zoe.\u00a0 \u201cWarm now?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUh-huh,\u201d Zoe finally replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, I\u2019m getting hungry, how about you?\u201d Gwen asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cYep, but what about you?\u00a0 It\u2019s not fair that I get all the pleasure,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have plenty of time today,\u201d Gwen answered, wiggling her eyebrows at her as Zoe caught on.<\/p>\n

\u201cYour right,\u201d Zoe replied, relaxing a bit.\u00a0 \u201cAll afternoon, but we still have to shop.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen you\u2019ll have to be quick about that,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think I can get it done quickly, with that type of motivation, just you wait,\u201d Zoe said, causing Gwen to chuckle.\u00a0 They quickly washed up with the excitement of later on today.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

Gwen stretched slightly after the meal.\u00a0 Zoe had finished her quickly, and was nibbling on another piece of bread.<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you were hungry,\u201d Gwen said, watching.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt takes a lot to be me,\u201d Zoe stated, looking back at her.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve got to keep up with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPoint taken, I guess we should get our supplies, did you make a list?\u201d Gwen asked, looking over seeing Zoe grin.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, not going to wait all afternoon when I have something to look forward to,\u201d Zoe replied, grinning, obviously her mind already thinking about it.<\/p>\n

\u201cI look forward to it,\u201d Gwen said, and realized she was.\u00a0 Zoe had an imagination and could use it rather well.<\/p>\n

Gwen did not look forward to the market square like Zoe, and knew the longer they waited the more people would start to arrive for the night.\u00a0 Already she knew people in the town were preparing for it.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll need some money,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo problem, I\u2019ll go grab it, you stay out of trouble,\u201d Gwen replied, standing.<\/p>\n

\u201cMe, trouble, no idea what you\u2019re talking about,” Zoe answered.<\/p>\n

Gwen quickly went up to the room, grabbing the coin purse, and headed back down.\u00a0 She took a look around, seeing a lunch crowd, probably all locals, a few who eyed Zoe a bit too closely for Gwen\u2019s comfort but did not seem like bounty hunters or associated with Stephos.<\/p>\n

She looked at Zoe, who watched her approach, and the question about how they felt towards each other popped into her mind.\u00a0 Sure she felt something for the girl, but was anything felt in return?\u00a0 Was it a phase the girl went though, some sort of hero worshipping, or something more?<\/p>\n

\u201cHere you go,\u201d Gwen said, handing the purse to Zoe.\u00a0 \u201cI know you\u2019ll have fun in the market.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t believe you don\u2019t enjoy shopping,\u201d Zoe said.\u00a0 \u201cAnd yeah, I think I\u2019ll grab another magical backpack so I can carry some stuff.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, don\u2019t forget a cloak,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cAnd some sturdier boots, if we\u2019re doing a lot of traveling, they won\u2019t wear out as fast, and will keep those lovely feet unprotected.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re upset that I couldn\u2019t take the lead,\u201d Zoe replied with a grin.\u00a0 \u201cAnd I liked wearing your stuff.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI noticed,\u201d Gwen replied.\u00a0 When Zoe had not been naked in the cave she wore one of her shirts.\u00a0 Not that she complained, it looked sexy on her.\u00a0 \u201cIf you buy your own cloak, then you won\u2019t have to keep trying to keep it off the ground as you walk.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, that did get tiring, I\u2019ll look to see what they have,\u201d Zoe said, standing.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd make sure it\u2019s waterproof.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight,\u201d Zoe replied, walking around the table to look down on Gwen.\u00a0 A small smile came to her face as she realized the positions as well.\u00a0 Gwen took the opportunity to pull her down into a kiss.\u00a0 Zoe returned it then stood and after telling her to be careful walked out towards the market.<\/p>\n

Gwen watched her head out, and wondered if she should not do some drills or something.\u00a0 There had to be a field around somewhere she could use.\u00a0 Missy walked overtaking dishes to and from tables.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou two appear close,\u201d she said, taking the dishes from her table.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, we are,\u201d Gwen said, hoping it did not cause trouble.<\/p>\n

Shouts interrupted any answer.\u00a0 Gwen thought she saw Missy\u2019s shoulders slump, then looked at the commotions going on.\u00a0 Two gentlemen stared at each other with hostile intent, and each had three men backing him up.<\/p>\n

\u201cSilvis, Cornias, not in my inn please,\u201d she heard Jonnas said, walking up to the two groups.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t get involved in this, if you know what\u2019s good for you,\u201d the taller of the two said, he was also bald, pointing a finger at Jonnas, and seemed very threatening.<\/p>\n

\u201cGreat, wish they\u2019d go somewhere else, something always breaks and they never pay for it,\u201d Missy said in a quiet voice.\u00a0 It seemed that she had spoken the words to herself, and not towards anyone, but Gwen heard it anyways.<\/p>\n

She glanced back to the two groups, as the innkeeper had walked over, trying to get them out of the inn.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you\u2019re going to fight, like you will do anyways, at least do it outside,\u201d Jonnas said.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs Cornais said, butt out of this, or you\u2019ll face my wrath as well,\u201d the shorter man said, and Gwen assumed him to be Silvis, he had short black hair, and an attitude to go with it.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the last time you two fought in here you cost me a hundred creds in damage, that neither of y you paid for,\u201d Jonnas said.<\/p>\n

Gwen watched as things seemed to be going out of control. As both parties accused the other of causing the damage which was why they did not pay.\u00a0 The argument set both groups even more on edge and a family nearby had gotten up as the parents moved their two children towards the stairs.\u00a0 Gwen did not blame the, they did not need to be in the middle of the fight, and neither did she.\u00a0 With a sigh she stood, knowing all she had was her fighting power, and allowed it to come out a bit.<\/p>\n

With purposeful strides she made her way over, and stopped in the middle of the two groups.\u00a0 Both men appeared shocked at her appearance,\u00a0\u00a0 she felt sure few people had ever tried to stand up to them like she had by their faces.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want?\u201d Cornias asked, pointing a finger at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat I want, is you two, and your lackeys out of here.\u00a0 You\u2019re ruining my good mood,\u201d Gwen said with a growl looking back and forth between the two and pointing her own finger at the door.\u00a0 \u201cIf you don\u2019t leave o your own, I\u2019ll toss you out myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat won\u2019t happen until he confesses,\u201d Silvis said, pointing a finger at the other man.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou lying, cheating, thief,\u201d Cornias replied.\u00a0 Gwen felt the two groups start to move, and allowed herself to move first intercepting the two groups.\u00a0 She delivered four blows, knocking out two men on each side.\u00a0 In the flurry of moments, she caught both groups off guard, and stood in the middle waiting for their next move.\u00a0 When neither of them moved after several moments she finally had enough of them both.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, take your trash and get out of here, you\u2019re ruining my day, and others in here as well,\u201d Gwen growled, waiting until they finally left picking up the two men who had been knocked out.\u00a0 \u201cIdiots,\u201d she said after they left, and saw several people look on with renewed respect for her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWow, thanks,\u201d Missy said walking over.\u00a0 \u201cYou need anything else?\u00a0 Another drink?\u00a0 Bath?\u00a0 Back rub?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll pass on that last one, don\u2019t need a jealous lover,\u201d Gwen said, but privately wondered how Zoe might react to such a proposition.\u00a0 \u201cSo, what\u2019s their problem?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, those two are both merchants, in the same business, bad blood between them for years, anything and everything it seems,\u201d Missy said.\u00a0 \u201cLately though things have gotten even worse, something about the other corrupting their kids.\u00a0 Each one accusing the other of doing something.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Gwen said, wondering if this might be going someplace.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe rumor is Hectar and Larras have been spending a lot of time together.\u00a0 As a result, Cornias thinks Silvis put a spell on his son, and Silvis accuses Cornias of trying to bribe his son,\u201d Missy said.<\/p>\n

Gwen shook her at what she heard.\u00a0 It seemed like the two were probably lovers, or something, and were seeing each other against their fathers\u2019 wishes.\u00a0 She did not care at all what they thought, after all she had a girl as a lover.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo why do they care?\u201d Gwen asked, using the question to see if there was a group that protested same-sex partners in the town.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, them being stupid, each thinks the other is behind it.\u00a0 They think the other one interfered with the arranged marriages, and they think their honor is at stake,\u201d Missy said.<\/p>\n

Gwen shook her head at that realizing there was more going on here than she wanted to get involved in.\u00a0 She looked at the time, hoping she might have some time to do some exercise before Zoe came back.<\/p>\n

Heading back up to her room to get her sword, hoping to find an area to train.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

Gwen went through a few up exercise, getting her muscles loose for the more advanced drills she wanted to do.\u00a0 Taking a few swipes and feeling she was loose enough, began easing into the more advanced sets glad no one was around to see her start these drills.<\/p>\n

She took out her sword, and ran though a few drills, slowly increasing the speed and complexity of each drill.\u00a0 She slowed up feeling someone approaching.\u00a0 She did not stop but looked on to see who might approach, only slightly surprised to see Cornias walking up, and patiently waiting for her to sop her drilling.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, the real thing I see,\u201d he said.\u00a0 \u201cI owe you for what you did to my men.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot my fault, you ignored the owner of the place you were in, I\u2019d say you were the rude ones,\u201d Gwen replied, cautious about what he might really want.\u00a0 \u201cI only did what everyone in the inn wanted to do to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see, then you are for hire, yes?\u201d Cornias asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps, depends on the task,\u201d Gwen answered, not wanting to limit her options, he might have something easy for her to do, easy creds.\u00a0 She also had no intention in getting involved in the quarrel between the two men.<\/p>\n

\u201cA business proposal for you, should be easy enough,\u201d he replied, but Gwen stopped him.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf it\u2019s anything to do with you and your conflict with Silvis, then I want nothing to do with it,\u201d Gwen told him.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt would be very easy,\u201d Cornias replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cFamily problems are rarely easy,\u201d Gwen replied, knowing that for the truth.\u00a0 Her own family problems could start a civil war.\u00a0 \u201cEspecially when they deal with the heart.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, you do understand, all the more reason you are the perfect person to help me,\u201d Cornias said, trying to appeal to her sense of family.<\/p>\n

She sheathed her sword and packed up, her drills ruined.\u00a0 She had the feeling he would continue his delusion of her helping no matter what she said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat part of no don\u2019t you understand?\u201d Gwen said, looking him in the eye.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can make it work your time,\u201d He said, completely ignoring her answer.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Gwen replied once more, and heading back towards the inn, before looking back at him.\u00a0 \u201cAnd don\u2019t follow me!\u201d<\/p>\n

She quickly headed back to the inn not bothering to look back at the man, who probably had never had anyone say no to him before.\u00a0 Shaking her head at his nerve, she returned to the room, seeing that Zoe had yet to return.\u00a0 The girl loved to shop, and Gwen had no problem with that, but had looked forward to an interesting afternoon.<\/p>\n

Deciding to head back down she asked for something to drink, and sat back waiting for Zoe to return.\u00a0 One other patron sat a few tables away, scribbling away on a parchment reminding her of Zoe when she was drawing.\u00a0 Total immersion into what he was doing and no idea what was going on around her.\u00a0 Gwen could not understand such an attitude considering her training always focused on remaining alert on her surroundings.<\/p>\n

The door opened and a shadow of a familiar shadow entered the room.\u00a0 She sighed, wondering what happened to her nice afternoon as she watched Silvis strode into the room.\u00a0 She wished she had stayed in her room instead of coming down for a drink.\u00a0 Her eyebrows rose as he sat down across from her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t say you could sit there,\u201d Gwen said, pinning him with a stare.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have a problem that you can solve for me,\u201d he said, ignoring her comment.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s a simple solution, eliminate Cornias\u2019 son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Coughing she looked up at the boldness of the proposition.\u00a0 \u201cSorry, but I\u2019m not for hire like that, find someone else.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a simple solution, and no risk.\u00a0 I hold enough sway in the town to make sure you are not even looked at,\u201d he said continuing on with his proposition.\u00a0 \u201cIf you don\u2019t, well, let\u2019s say I hold enough sway to make things uneasy for you and wish you had never stopped here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIs that a threat?\u201d Gwen asked, raising an eyebrow, waiting a second before continuing on.\u00a0 \u201cLook, I don\u2019t care about you, or your stupid quarrel.\u00a0 \u201cAll I want is for my girlfriend to return so we can spend the rest of the afternoon in bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, you\u2019re one of those types,\u201d Silvis said, standing up and looking disgusted.\u00a0 \u201cOf course you\u2019d be against me.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t\u2019 care, there is a difference,\u201d Gwen replied back to him, knowing it did not matter what she said.\u00a0 He did everything in his power to get his way.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou seemed to care enough when you interjected into our conversation earlier,\u201d he replied back to her walking out without hearing her reply.<\/p>\n

\u201cIdiot,\u201d she said to his retreating back.\u00a0 She only interfered because they were about to fight where she was and in front of children.<\/p>\n

Sipping her drink she wondered what might happen next.\u00a0 The door opened, and three people walked into the room.\u00a0 Looking over she recognized Zoe, along with two other guys heading right for her.\u00a0 She sighed wondered what had happened now.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know she can help you two out,\u201d she heard Zoe say as they approached.\u00a0 She looked at Zoe then up at the other two.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait,\u201d she said, holding up a hand before any of them could start speaking.\u00a0 \u201cUnless it\u2019s easy, I don\u2019t want it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taking a closer look at the two, she realized they resembled both Silvis and Cornias.\u00a0 These two had to be their sons.\u00a0 They looked at each other before speaking.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s as easy as making two stubborn old men to listen for a few moments,\u201d the one who looked like Cornias said.<\/p>\n

\u201cLemme guess, you\u2019re Cornias\u2019 son,\u201d Gwen said, before looking over at the other one.\u00a0 \u201cAnd you must be Silvis\u2019s son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUm, yeah, guess you\u2019ve met our fathers,\u201d Silvis\u2019s son said.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m Hectar and this is Lessar.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLook, I already told your fathers no, why should I listen to you and get involved in a lover\u2019s quarrel?\u201d Gwen asked, looking back and forth between the two.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat rumor still?\u00a0 Told you that\u2019s what they think,\u201d Hectar said looking over at Lassar with a grimace.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey don\u2019t even listen to us anymore,\u201d Lassar replied back to him. \u201cHow many times do we have to explain it to them?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, actually I was told that by a third party,\u201d Gwen said, not mentioning it was Missy who told her that.<\/p>\n

\u201cGwen, it\u2019s actually very simple, they told me everything while I bought this cloak from them,\u201d Zoe said, speaking up while pulling out a cloak.\u00a0\u00a0 Gwen took a moment to examine it, noticing it was well build and would work well for Zoe.\u00a0 \u201cYou see, they are opening up a clothing shop, something they both liked, and instead of competing against each, other like their dads, they went into business together.\u00a0 They\u2019ve been sending the clothes to Setta and want to open a stall here full time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen rubbed her forehead in annoyance at the headache coming on.\u00a0 The information being told to her differed from what others had said.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey also are in love, but with each other\u2019s fianc\u00e9e,\u201d Zoe said, giving one last piece of information.<\/p>\n

\u201cShoulda stayed in the cave,\u201d Gwen mumbled to herself, ignoring Zoe\u2019s glare.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll you have to do is get them to listen to us, we\u2019ll do the talking,\u201d Hectar said.<\/p>\n

Gwen had no idea where this might be going, or even if she wanted to get involved.\u00a0 She had other plans for this afternoon and things seemed to be interfering with them.\u00a0 The door opened allowing four men to enter the inn.\u00a0 Gwen noticed by their appearance, and the way the leaders looked around, they were searching for her.<\/p>\n

They predictably made their way over to her table, which suddenly became too crowded.\u00a0 Missy and the innkeeper, Jonnas also walked over.<\/p>\n

\u201cAfternoon Devon, what\u2019s the problem?\u201d Jonnas asked, intercepting the group of men.<\/p>\n

\u201cBeen getting complaints about someone who is staying here, said she was tall, black hair, a fighter.\u00a0 Got some charges against her, need to arrest her for the moment, pending the trial,\u201d Devon replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me guess, Silvis,\u201d Gwen said, looking at Devon.\u00a0 They both understood who controlled the man, despite him not saying much else.<\/p>\n

\u201cYep, hefting some serious charges against you as well,” Devon said, his attitude cool.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh for mother earth, you actually believe that garbage he\u2019s spewing?\u2019 Hectar said.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u201dAssaulted several men under Silvis\u2019 employment,\u201d Devon said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI broke up a fight in here where they might have hurt a family with children, something you should be doing, but we both know who holds your collar,\u201d Gwen said, seeing Zoe\u2019s eyes widen having not known about the fight.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t give me any trouble, you don\u2019t know what might happen,\u201d Devon said, making an implied threat.\u00a0 \u201cAfter all, I can\u2019t have a dangerous person threatening the citizens of my town.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen looked around seeing the tempers rising in the inn.\u00a0 She knew Zoe was mad by the way she clinched her fists, and faced Devon.<\/p>\n

\u201cDangerous, how about those two idiots you\u2019re working for?\u00a0 They appear to be a danger to this town as well,\u201d Zoe stated, standing up to Devon.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe only danger here is her,\u201d Devon said, pointing to Gwen.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t believe this?\u201d Jonnas said.\u00a0 Even Hectar and Lassar came to her defense, but eh four men began to adopt a more aggressive posture causing Gwen to stand and look at Devon.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf, and I stress this, if I was the danger, you wouldn\u2019t be standing now,\u201d Gwen said honestly, knowing it sounded like a threat, and at the moment not caring.\u00a0 \u201cAnd you think about this, both Cornias and Silvis asked me to kill someone.\u00a0 When I refused they went running to you hoping to exact my cooperation through such pitiful tactics.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis stupid feud had gone on for too long,\u201d Lassar said.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s right, you\u2019re so weak that you might as well be one of their paid lackeys,\u201d Hectar said.<\/p>\n

\u201cEnough, all of you, or I\u2019ll make you all regret it as well, and you two, well you\u2019re the reason this is all exploding so much,\u201d Devon said.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll toss you both in a jail and forget the key if you\u2019re not careful.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure our dads would like that,\u201d Hectar said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure I could think of something to tell them,\u201d Devon said, smiling.<\/p>\n

Gwen knew the tempers were rising fact, and realized when it came to the feud, people were turning a deaf ear to reason.\u00a0 She turned Zoe around so she could look into the green eyes, ones that were still angry.<\/p>\n

\u201cStay here, okay\u201d Gwen said, confusing Zoe.\u00a0 \u201cAll right, let\u2019s get this out of the way so I can get back to what I really wanted to do this afternoon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t be doing this,\u201d Zoe said, realizing what Gwen was doing.<\/p>\n

\u201cRelax, I\u2019ll be fine,\u201d Gwen said, giving Zoe\u2019s shoulder a pat.\u00a0 She hoped this might force both Silvis and Cornias out where they were together and she might be able to speak with them.\u00a0 \u201cEither way, we\u2019re leaving tomorrow, so be packed if I\u2019m not back.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI doubt that,\u201d Devon said, his men backing him up.\u00a0 Gwen knew if she really wanted to, they would not be able to stop her.<\/p>\n

\u201cShall we go?\u201d Gwen said, motioning towards the door.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

Gwen followed the sheriff into the building, having walked from the inn here in silence.\u00a0 She entered hoping to see either Silvis or Cornias, but neither man appeared there at the moment.<\/p>\n

\u201cSilvis not here to watch, he did buy this,\u201d she said, looking over at Devon.\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s a shame he can\u2019t see what his money bought him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou were doing better not speaking,\u201d Devon said.\u00a0 \u201cYou have no idea what real trouble is, do you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen sighed at the comment before replying.\u00a0 \u201cActually I do, but this, this is nothing compared to the trouble I\u2019ve seen or been a part of.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA wise guy, or should I say gal,\u201d Devon said.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, only someone who didn\u2019t want to see a fight in my presence, and even less near children.\u00a0 The more I learn about this mess the less I understand,\u201d Gwen said, looking right into the Sheriff\u2019s eyes.\u00a0 \u201cHow can someone like you support this?\u00a0 You know what\u2019s going on, and in fact instead of helping out things are spiraling out of control and it\u2019s almost past the point of no return.\u00a0 What will you do when a true innocent is killed because of this?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t know anything, and you should have stayed out of it,\u201d Devon said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI tried, and look what happened, you dragged me into this, I said no to Silvis and Cornias, and you seem to want me involved,\u201d Gwen replied back to him.\u00a0 She privately wondered if he was that stupid.<\/p>\n

\u201cStupid, see you don\u2019t know anything,\u201d Devon replied back hotly.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, what I know is there is some stupid feud, which I don\u2019t care about between Silvis and Cornias.\u00a0 Now, it seems like their sons don\u2019t want anything to do with the feud, and want to start their own business, they are not lovers, but in love with each other\u2019s fianc\u00e9e,\u201d Gwen said, watching Devon\u2019s eye twitch at the statement.\u00a0 \u201cBut you already knew that, and are doing nothing to stop the feud.\u201d<\/p>\n

She looked at the others, who appeared surprised at the sudden statement.\u00a0 It became apparent who knew and who did not.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs this true?\u201d one asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course not, you think some stranger would know so much, she\u2019s making up lies to get out of the charges against her,\u201d Devon said.\u00a0 A few laughed at the obvious inside joke.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, you could ask them and listen to their answers,\u201d Gwen said challenging them back.<\/p>\n

Instead of a reply she was led to a cell as Devon told the rest to stay on guard.\u00a0 She waited a moment until Devon had left to look around the cell.\u00a0 The walls appeared well built, but she would have no problem breaking out if needed.\u00a0 Lying back on the cot she pondered the situation while looking at the ceiling.\u00a0 Something else had to be behind all this, some root cause of the problem.\u00a0 The information rolled around in her mind as she tried to think of it logically.<\/p>\n

The sheriff, Devon, knew the situation, and some of the others did as well, but not everyone.\u00a0 That could mean some outside group was responsible, buying the sheriff to make sure things remained the way they were.\u00a0 But that meant she lacked a lot of information.\u00a0 Another possible solution besides being bought, he was a relative of one of the two men.\u00a0 She had too many variables and no real tangible solutions or information to the problem.<\/p>\n

Keys caused her to look up a while later, seeing two of the guards standing there, each with a wary look on their face.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome along, and don\u2019t cause any trouble,\u201d one said.<\/p>\n

Gwen stood and walked over to the cell door, waiting patiently for whatever they wanted.\u00a0 One held bindings, no doubt on Devon\u2019s orders. \u00a0She looked them over knowing their limitations, and waited as the guard place them on her wrists, before opening the door and following them back to the main office, Devon stood there along with Silvis.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome out of your lair have you?\u201d Gwen asked.\u00a0 \u201cI guess you think you hold all the cards?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThink, no, I know I do,\u201d Silvis said with a sneer.\u00a0 \u201cI know a lot of things, like the fact that you are going to help me or spend a very, very, very long time in a jail cell, if you\u2019re lucky.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLuck, has a way of changing, so I doubt what you said,\u201d Gwen replied back to him watching his skin flush in anger.<\/p>\n

Silvis started to say something when the door opened again, allowing three figures to enter the room.\u00a0 Gwen recognized Zoe right away and sighed.\u00a0 She told the girl to stay at the inn.\u00a0 The other two she realized were Hectar and Lassar.<\/p>\n

\u201cFather,\u201d Hectar said, looking at Silvis.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not my son,\u201d Silvis said savagely.\u00a0 \u201cNo son of mine would dishonor me this way.\u00a0 That slut should die.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen watched as he pointed at Lassar, the hatred in his voice indicating little could be done to change his mind.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, your temper is blinding you to the truth,\u201d Gwen stated, moving close to the man.\u00a0 \u201cIf you actually spent some time listening to him, you might realize you\u2019re honor isn\u2019t at stake at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he knows the truth, don\u2019t you,\u201d Zoe said, interrupting any answer Silvis might have given.<\/p>\n

Gwen watched his eyes narrow at Zoe\u2019s statement, indicating she was right.\u00a0 He did know the truth, and did not care.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know nothing,\u201d Silvis growled.<\/p>\n

Gwen watched as his anger overcame any rational thought.\u00a0 She recognized the movement as he raised his hand to strike Zoe, and reacted on instinct.\u00a0 Her fighting power rose in an instant, well beyond anything anyone in the room had.\u00a0 The cuffs snapped easily before moving to block the strike, and held Silvis\u2019 wrist in an iron grip.\u00a0 She looked into his eyes, as he appeared stunned that she had stopped him.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, I don\u2019t care about you, your quarrel, your son, his problem, or this town, but raise your hand to threaten my lover, and you\u2019ll have to deal with me, got it,\u201d She growled, staring down into his face letting him feel her power.<\/p>\n

\u201cI-I demand you release me at once,\u201d Silvis stated, trying to sound stern despite the wavering in his voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you understand me?\u201d Gwen repeated, waiting for his reply, knowing that they both understood the true power she held.<\/p>\n

\u201cSheriff, you see this, she\u2019s threatening me,\u201d Silvis said, looking over at Devon, who appeared shocked at what happened.<\/p>\n

\u201cTrue to your brutish tactics I see,\u201d another voice said.\u00a0 They all looked towards the doorway, seeing Cornias standing there, surveying the scene before him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou still haven\u2019t answered my question,\u201d Gwen said, ignoring the newcomer and increased the pressure on Silvis\u2019 wrist.<\/p>\n

\u201cOw! Ow! Ow!\u00a0 All right, I understand, just let me go,\u201d Silvis said.<\/p>\n

Gwen released him, stepping back slightly but keeping Zoe behind her.\u00a0 She looked over to see Devon and his deputies looking back at her with wary caution.\u00a0 She noticed Devon had fear in his eyes now as he looked at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow that everyone\u2019s here, listen up,\u201d Gwen said, pinning Silvis with a stare.\u00a0 He seemed to be the biggest problem in the room at the moment.\u00a0 She needed to find a way to get him to understand, or back off.\u00a0 \u201cYour son isn\u2019t in love with Lassar, but his fianc\u00e9e, and Lassar is in love with Hectar\u2019s.\u00a0 And if they want to go into business together, then they should be able to.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe has a duty to my business,\u201d Silvis said stubbornly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll sell it,\u201d Hectar said, looking directly at his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou will not, you\u2019ll dishonor our family by doing that,\u201d Silvis said, anger in his tone.\u00a0 \u201cNo one in our family has let this business fail, I won\u2019t be the first.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen watched as he stormed out the building, pushing past Cornias, who had not said anything yet.\u00a0 He appeared slightly stunned by everything that had been said.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs this true?\u201d he finally asked, looking over at his son.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Lassar said, no hesitation at all in answering the question.\u00a0 Gwen waited to see what might happen next.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what type of business?\u201d Cornais asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cClothing,\u201d Lassar answered.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd your fianc\u00e9e?\u00a0 She knows about this?\u201d Cornias asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cAriel and I love each other, but I\u2019m sorry father, Rita and I will never be anything more than friends,\u201d Lassar answered.\u00a0 \u201cWe\u2019re not going to be like you and Hectar\u2019s father.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen had the impression there was more to the answer than they were being told, as Cornias seemed to step back and look around.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen it seems I\u2019ve been a fool,\u201d Cornias said.\u00a0 \u201cI allowed my feud with Silvis to blind me to the truth, you are now like we were.\u00a0 Perhaps there is more I need to learn.\u201d<\/p>\n

She figured he was no longer part of the problem anymore, but it did not completely end the problem.\u00a0 Not that she wanted to solve them all, she wanted to go back to the inn with Zoe.\u00a0 She had a promise to keep.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, now that that\u2019s settle,\u201d Gwen said, looking down at Zoe, \u201chow about we head back to the inn, I think we can grab some supper and call it an early night?\u201d<\/p>\n

Zoe\u2019s face broke out into a grin before she replied.\u00a0 \u201cI think I can go for that, and find a good use for those cuffs.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen looked down at the cuffs, then back at Zoe.\u00a0 She had an idea of what the younger woman had in mind, and might even entertain the idea in bed.\u00a0 She moved over the sheriff holding out her arms.\u00a0 The broken cuffs still dangled on her wrists, but had been rendered useless.\u00a0 \u201cHow about taking these off.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUm, w-well you still have to answer for those crimes,\u201d he finally said, his tone flat and scared.<\/p>\n

\u201cTrumped up charges by Silvis because I said no to him, you know that,\u201d Gwen replied back to him.<\/p>\n

\u201cDevon, you know those charges are fake,\u201d Cornias said suddenly.\u00a0 \u201cI think you better start taking that oath seriously.\u00a0 I plan on dropping my feud with Silvis, at least as much as I can.\u00a0 If you continue to support him this way, I\u2019ll have no choice than to bring Victor in.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen watched as Devon reacted to the mention of Victor\u2019s name.\u00a0 Whoever Victor was, they all knew him, and wanted nothing to do with him.<\/p>\n

\u201cFine,\u201d Devon said, making a motion to one of the deputies.\u00a0 Gwen waited patiently as the man stepped forward and quickly unlocked the cuffs.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho are you?\u201d Devon finally asked, looking over at Gwen.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust a bounty hunter,\u201d Gwen replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cNever felt so much power, what level are you at?\u201d he asked, digging for more information.<\/p>\n

Gwen knew that anyone in town who could feel the aura of someone else felt her fighting level.\u00a0 She had not thought at all when her power level sky-rocketed to protect Zoe.\u00a0 Everything happened so fast she did not even bother to think about the consequences.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t know,\u201d she finally replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s pretty strong for someone who doesn\u2019t know,\u201d Devon replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cNever gave it any thought, try not to use it that much, don\u2019t like to stand out as a bounty hunter,\u201d Gwen replied, turning towards Zoe.\u00a0 \u201cCome on, let\u2019s get outta here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t have to tell me twice,\u201d Zoe replied.<\/p>\n

They left the building heading back to the inn.\u00a0 She felt Zoe lean against her realizing the feel was very nice.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, hungry?\u201d Gwen asked, as they walked into the inn.<\/p>\n

\u201cYep, gotta keep up my strength,\u201d she replied back to her.\u00a0 Heading over to a table she watched as Missy made her way over to them.<\/p>\n

\u201cReady for supper?\u201d she asked, sounding cheerful.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes please,\u201d Zoe replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, um, should we keep an eye out for the sheriff?\u201d Missy asked leaning further down and lowering her voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t think so,\u201d Gwen replied, at least she hoped not.\u00a0 The real threat was not the sheriff, but Silvis at the moment.\u00a0 He might hold a grudge against her, but would have to wait and see.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe managed to solve the problem a bit,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe did?\u201d Gwen replied, not sure about that.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Lester and his father, not sure about Hectar\u2019s father, seemed a bit too stubborn,\u201d Zoe finally said.\u00a0 \u201cI have a good feeling.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, but we\u2019ll wait to see, don\u2019t like it when either of them come into the inn, nothing but trouble,\u201d Missy replied, moving away and heading to the kitchen to grab some supper for them.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, you were supposed to stay here,\u201d Gwen said, looking at the young woman.<\/p>\n

\u201cI had a feeling, it was lucky that we got there all at the same time,\u201d Zoe said.\u00a0 \u201cThey were finally able to tell their dads.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you say so,\u201d Gwen replied, seeing a new person enter the room.\u00a0 She watched a tall woman with black and white hair look around the room before making her way over to where she and Zoe sat.<\/p>\n

\u201cLooks like we\u2019ve got company,\u201d Gwen said, waiting as the woman stopped at their table.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you Zoe?\u201d the woman asked, looking down at them.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Zoe replied.\u00a0 Gwen watched carefully to make sure nothing else happened in the exchange.\u00a0 She felt no energy coming from the woman, but did not want to take any chances.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d the woman said, grabbing Zoe\u2019s hands in hers, surprising Gwen.\u00a0 She looked over seeing Zoe smile as if she knew who the woman was before she continued.\u00a0 \u201cMy husband can be quite thick-headed at times.\u00a0 Thinks he can keep the truth from me forever, but don\u2019t worry about him, he won\u2019t bother you while you\u2019re here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou must be Hectar\u2019s mother,\u201d Zoe said, catching Gwen by surprise.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I knew things were not going well between him and Ariel, but he never said anything to me.\u00a0 I understand it so much better now, and things look like it will work out between those two, they are not their fathers,\u201d she said.\u00a0 Gwen had a feeling there was a story here, but did not press it.\u00a0 Instead she almost felt sorry for Silvis from the look in the woman\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cHectar\u2019s a nice guy, does great work,\u201d Zoe said.\u00a0 \u201cBought my cloak from him earlier in the day.\u00a0 That\u2019s how I met him, he was setting up a stall in the market place off to the side where their fathers couldn\u2019t see it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I did teach him how to stitch, he always was good at it,\u201d she said with a bit of pride.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen you must be good as well.\u00a0 I\u2019ve never been that good, enough to pass, but nothing of high quality,\u2019 Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re too kind, but I\u2019m interrupting you two,\u201d she said, as Missy came back with two plates.\u00a0 \u201cI just wanted to thank you personally.\u201d<\/p>\n

She said bye, then walked out.\u00a0 Gwen noticed she said hi to Jonnas, and then continued on.\u00a0 She felt sure there was something there, but did not want to dig anymore.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat turned out lucky, if she\u2019s going to do something about it, then things will change,\u201d Missy said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess it was lucky,\u201d Gwen replied, before thanking Missy for the food.<\/p>\n

She hoped now they would have a normal evening with no interruptions.<\/p>\n

End part 5 continued in part 6<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Lucky Luck by AJ Marks Part 5: A Lucky Problem Gwen made her way along the path, or at least what path she could make out in the snow.\u00a0 The sun\u2019s rays had melted it a bit, making it not very deep, unlike the knee deep it had been two days earlier.\u00a0 They stayed a […]
Continue reading…<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[24],"tags":[3,6,28,12],"class_list":["post-2629","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-original","tag-aj-marks","tag-fantasy","tag-original","tag-story"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2629","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2629"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2629\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2639,"href":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2629\/revisions\/2639"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2629"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2629"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2629"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}