{"id":2655,"date":"2019-05-12T07:40:12","date_gmt":"2019-05-12T12:40:12","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/?p=2655"},"modified":"2019-06-01T07:25:09","modified_gmt":"2019-06-01T12:25:09","slug":"lucky-luck-part-9","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ajscifistories.com\/?p=2655","title":{"rendered":"Lucky Luck – part 9"},"content":{"rendered":"

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

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

Part 9: A Lucky Town<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Gwen guided the horse down the path.\u00a0 A gift from Valerie as a peace offering for what she had said, and for services rendered.\u00a0 Gwen and Zoe reluctantly accepted, and Valerie reassured Zoe that the saddle was normal this time.\u00a0 Zoe had fallen asleep not long ago as the motion from the horse lulled her into sleep after the emotional time the past few days since leaving Setta.\u00a0 Traveling between towns would be quicker now with transportation, and most towns had a stable she could keep Eros at.<\/p>\n

After leaving Setta they had talked a bit more about her being a latgic.\u00a0 To Gwen it explained so much, from why people wanted Zoe, to her incredible luck.\u00a0 Zoe had not seen herself as lucky, and Gwen could understand.\u00a0 From her point of view it would seem like everyone but her got lucky, they always won against what she wanted.\u00a0 Gwen had defended her against Stephos, and others before she even knew about the situation.\u00a0 So Stephos had not gained all her luck, because if he had, Gwen would have lost that first battle with him.<\/p>\n

Gwen mused he probably followed them into town, expecting them split up, like they had done.\u00a0 However he had not expected the town to be so crowded, nor of them sharing a room.\u00a0 She told Zoe that her luck did affect her, after all, everything that seemed to happen since then directly affected her.<\/p>\n

Looking down the road she spotted a couple of travelers approaching from the opposite direction.\u00a0 She took a moment to study them, noting their appearance.\u00a0 Their clothing appeared unkempt, and a general uneasiness about them.\u00a0 Extending her aura she found no one hiding nearby.\u00a0 Slowing down a bit she waved at them.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello,\u201d she said, greeting them.<\/p>\n

\u201cAye,\u201d the man replied with a nod, giving her a wary glance as if he expected her to attack.\u00a0 She assumed her armor and sword might give a more hostile appearance than a merchant or other traveler.<\/p>\n

\u201cAny trouble ahead?\u201d Gwen asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cMight say that,\u201d he replied to her.\u00a0 \u201cIf you go that way, expect it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for the warning, didn\u2019t see anything behind us to Setta,\u201d Gwen said, wondering what he meant.<\/p>\n

\u201cFirst luck I\u2019ve had in a while then,\u201d he mumbled as they continued on down the road.<\/p>\n

Gwen wondered what he meant.\u00a0 He looked like he had been travelling for a while now.\u00a0 She thought about turning around, but this route was the quickest to the town of Cornell.\u00a0 Zoe had mentioned wanting to shop there, the largest market in the Shadowlands.\u00a0 Their recent missions meant they had the money, and she might find something interesting there.<\/p>\n

Gwen kept an eye on the road, and around them noticing that the trail seemed to get darker, and everything screamed out a warning.\u00a0 She considered listening to the man\u2019s warnings but was already too far along to turn around.\u00a0 Turning around a bend the town came into sight.\u00a0 She nudged Zoe slightly feeling the girl move around a bit as she woke up.<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d she mumbled slightly, confused from her nap.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re almost at the village, we\u2019ll rest here and move on to Cornell tomorrow,\u201d Gwen said, her plan for their traveling completed.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, can\u2019t believe I fell asleep,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, a lots happen in the past couple of days,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019d say emotionally you needed that sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I didn\u2019t get much the past couple of night,\u201d Zoe replied, something they both knew.\u00a0 Zoe had been tense the first day after they left Setta despite Gwen\u2019s reassurances.\u00a0 Everything that she had bottled up inside had finally come out over the past few days.\u00a0 \u201cUm, you know Gwen, this town has a different vibe going for it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Gwen replied, spotting several houses, an inn, a tavern, smithy, a few shops and a stable, but everyone looked at her with caution.\u00a0 Guiding Eros towards the stable she watched the man look up, a guarded look crossing his face.\u00a0 \u201cHow much to stable her for the night?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cStaying, you\u2019re better off continuing on stranger,\u201d he said, taking Gwen by surprise.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you don\u2019t want my coins just say so,\u201d Gwen said, looking at the man for a few seconds.\u00a0 He scratched his chin for a second looking them over before saying anything.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust givin\u2019 you some friendly advice ma\u2019am, if you want to stay, two creds,\u201d he finally said.<\/p>\n

Gwen dismounted, helping Zoe down next before taking two coins out of her coin purse, and handing them to the man.\u00a0 Taking off their packs, she watched as he led the horse into the stable and began taking off the saddle and brushing him down with an expert hand.<\/p>\n

Zoe stayed close to her as they made their way across the street to the inn.\u00a0 Inside things did not get any better.\u00a0 Everyone stopped to stare at them. \u00a0Gwen ignored the stares, heading over to where the innkeeper stood. She felt Zoe move even closer under the scrutiny.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow much for the night?\u201d Gwen asked, watching as he looked back at her with almost a sense of disbelief.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you want to stay, your choice, I wouldn\u2019t, but if you do, five creds,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Gwen took out a few more coins handing them to the man.\u00a0 The entire attitude of the town seemed very strange to her.\u00a0 They had an attitude of a group who did not want to do business, trying to get people to move on.\u00a0 It was filled with secrets, and Gwen decided to keep her senses tuned in for any trouble.<\/p>\n

\u201cSecond door on the right, the bath is at the end of the hall,\u201d he told them, pointing to the hallway.<\/p>\n

Gwen nodded her thanks moving towards the hall and to their room.\u00a0 They remained silent for the moment until they reached the town before Zoe finally said anything.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s up with this town?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, I don\u2019t get a threatening feeling from them, more like a defeated attitude,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cBesides, it\u2019s only for a night, we should get some rest for now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m more interested in a bath and a meal,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cA meal would mean being in that room,\u201d Gwen said, wondering if they should try to go out.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet see if they have anything to eat, I really don\u2019t want trail bars again,\u201d Zoe said, indicating the last town.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat wasn\u2019t my fault, I had no idea the innkeeper couldn\u2019t cook,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess what they fix can\u2019t be that bad,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, let\u2019s get wet,\u201d Gwen said, waggling her eyebrows, hearing Zoe giggle.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

Gwen knew they were all looking at her and Zoe.\u00a0 Since they entered the town it seemed that people looked at them, but the reason why had yet to be discovered.\u00a0 They seemed suspicious of something making Gwen wonder what had happened.\u00a0 The food served was very good, not large portions, but good anyways.\u00a0 The inn seemed to be in excellent condition, and the bath was superb.\u00a0 What was going on in this town?\u00a0 Even looking out at the market, it hinted at a time when things had recently been better.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know,\u201d Zoe said, leaning forward so only Gwen could hear, \u201cI\u2019ve noticed no kids, have you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen blinked at the statement.\u00a0 She recalled everything she had seen, and could not recall a single child.\u00a0 It could explain the attitude.\u00a0 She thought a bit more and realized even younger people she did not recall seeing.\u00a0 Most were either her age or older.\u00a0 The idea rolled around in her mind as she ate, taking a look around.<\/p>\n

She sensed a few fighting aura and waited, looking at the doorway, watching as three men dressed in armor, and armed walked into the inn.\u00a0 They took a moment to look around focusing not on Gwen, but Zoe.\u00a0 She quickly determined their fighting ability, one seemed to be a level eight, the other two level ten.\u00a0 Their gaze lingering on Zoe only caused Gwen\u2019s eyes to narrow, perceiving a threat to her lover.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, lookie here boys, a fresh face,\u201d the leader said, moving towards the table.\u00a0 Gwen stood blocking their path, wishing she had not taken off her armor or sword.\u00a0 The leader looked at her, then back at Zoe before saying anything.\u00a0 \u201cI suggest you move, you might get hurt girlie.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s my lover you\u2019re looking at, and you\u2019re making her uncomfortable,\u201d Gwen growled, standing up to the man, who appeared confused that someone dared stand up against him.\u00a0 She allowed her fighting power to rise with the threat.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re cute, but too old,\u201d the leader said, looking at Gwen.\u00a0 \u201cThe rule is we take who we like, and we like your girlie there,\u201d he said, moving forward to push Gwen aside.\u00a0 Reaching out she blocked his attempt with her superior speed then took his sword before he could even react.<\/p>\n

\u201cNew rule, you go back to whatever hole you climbed out of, don\u2019t show your face again to me or my lover, and I let you live,\u201d Gwen said, giving the sword a twirl.\u00a0 \u201cAnd I keep the sword, though it\u2019s a bit inferior quality.\u201d<\/p>\n

The three men looked stupefied at what happened.\u00a0 She had the feeling they were not used to people standing up against them for whatever reason.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah right, one pretty girl against three of us, and we have fighting power too,\u201d one of the other two said.\u00a0 Gwen looked over at him wondering if he was that stupid.\u00a0 When they drew their swords she had her answer, and felt Zoe move back giving her room in the upcoming fight.\u00a0 She smiled a bit at that move, before concentrating on the men in front of her.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow about this rule, we kill you and take the girl anyways,\u201d the leader said.\u00a0 \u201cGet her!\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen sighed, blocking the first strike and then counter-attacking.\u00a0 She sliced through the first man\u2019s armor but avoided cutting him, taking a few more swipes and removing his armor while blocking their attacks.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re nowhere near my level,\u201d Gwen said to them, watching the armor on the man fall off causing him to stumble slightly while trying to hold his armor up.<\/p>\n

\u201cTime for you to die,\u201d the leader said, rushing forward in rage.<\/p>\n

\u201cFine,\u201d Gwen replied, making two short strikes.\u00a0 The leader stumbled stunned, before falling to the ground dead.<\/p>\n

\u201cY-You killed him, impossible,\u201d one of the two said.<\/p>\n

Gwen frowned, they were not immortal, nor did they have a high fighting power so why would they think she could not kill one of them.\u00a0 They both turned, running from the inn, one trying to hold his armor up so he did not trip.<\/p>\n

Gwen tossed the sword down onto the leader\u2019s body not needing it anymore before turning to see if Zoe was all right.\u00a0 She endured a return check out before glancing around the inn, seeing everyone look at her with wonder.\u00a0 One approached looking at the man then over at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou beat him?\u201d he said, his voice full of wonder.\u00a0 Gwen had a feeling she might finally understand what was going on in the village.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey had low fighting power, nothing I couldn\u2019t handle,\u201d Gwen said, unsure why they seemed so surprised by her victory.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you didn\u2019t stumble, or have your weapon shatter,\u201d the man said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would it do that, even without the weapon it was not much of a fight,\u201d Gwen said, looking over at Zoe who shrugged her shoulders.<\/p>\n

\u201cEvery other person who challenged them, every mercenary we hired stumbled, or something happened to cause them to lose,\u201d the man replied back.\u00a0 \u201cIt didn\u2019t matter how strong, then you come in and do this.\u00a0 I don\u2019t understand.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen thought about that, sitting back down.\u00a0 It sounded like magic to her, but she knew of no mage who could produce such magic for so long.\u00a0 \u201cPerhaps they did not expect to see me here,\u201d Gwen said finally.\u00a0 \u201cHad no time to prepare a spell, or curse.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut, they will return,\u201d the man said, turning to walk back to a group of people.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s weird,\u201d Zoe whispered to her, sitting down as well.\u00a0 Gwen looked over at the villagers, who now looked at her now with the mistrust, but something else.\u00a0 Two quickly left the inn as they huddled.<\/p>\n

Gwen continued to eat her meal, wondering what might happen next, watching as a few more men came in.\u00a0 A couple of men walked over to drag the body out of the inn, and the innkeeper began to clean up.\u00a0 Finally a few made their way toward her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, looks like we\u2019re about to be dragged into whatever is going on here,\u201d Gwen said, looking over at Zoe.\u00a0 She really did not wish to get involved, but would listen.\u00a0 \u201cYour shopping trip might be delayed.\u201d<\/p>\n

She smiled at the pout Zoe gave her, reminding her of the look she gave back in the cave.\u00a0 That now seemed so long ago to her.\u00a0 They both had been through so much.\u00a0 Turning she looked up at the man who now stood by their table waiting for him to talk.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know you don\u2019t have to help us, but we\u2019re begging you.\u00a0 We\u2019ve seen you\u2019re strength, you can beat them,\u201d he said, causing Gwen to look over at Zoe.\u00a0 They both were confused but waited to hear more.\u00a0 \u201cIt started a month ago, everything started going badly.\u00a0 Small things, merchants robbed, they started leaving town, the crops started to fail.\u00a0 Everything went downhill, then the raiders came, the worst type.\u201d<\/p>\n

He paused in his story, and Gwen waited knowing this part would be the most important part of the story.\u00a0 There were many types of raiders, but she had an idea of what they took.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey rode in, taking only our children, and anyone young enough, usually under twenty years,\u201d he said.\u00a0 \u201cYoung people like your partner there.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen saw the emotional look on his face, and the shocked horrified look on Zoe\u2019s face as their suspicions were confirmed about the children of the town.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe tried to fight back, but we\u2019re farmers and merchants, not warriors.\u00a0 They killed anyone who tried.\u00a0 We hired mercenaries, but they always lost, until no one would take our money to help us,\u201d he said to them, his face changing to one of pleading.\u00a0 \u201cHelp us please, we beg you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen looked over at Zoe, knowing they were a team, so they both had to make the decision.\u00a0 She knew by looking what Zoe would do.\u00a0 The market would still be there, this town needed help.\u00a0 The fact they took the children meant only one conclusion, slavers.\u00a0 Taking slaves like this never set well with Gwen, and was considered illegal in the Realm.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, what can you tell me?\u201d Gwen asked him, seeing a look of determination of Zoe\u2019s face as they took the job.\u00a0 \u201cDo you know anything about their hideout?\u00a0 What forces they employ?\u00a0 Fighters?\u00a0 Mages?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t know, we\u2019ve tried to find them.\u00a0 Anyone who has gone out either never returned, or never found anything,\u201d the man replied, the defeated tone in his voice evident.\u00a0 He had tried at least once she assumed.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know which direction they went?\u201d Gwen asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe same way they always head, we can show you,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, I\u2019ll go have a look and see what I can find,\u201d Gwen said, seeing Zoe give her a look.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see you outside of town,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, I\u2019ll go change then,\u201d Gwen said, knowing Zoe would follow her back to the room, and what she would say.\u00a0 They headed to the room where she kept her armor and weapons.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, why can\u2019t I go?\u201d Zoe asked.\u00a0 \u201cThought we were a team?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe are, I need you to stay here, I can move quicker by myself,\u201d Gwen said, putting on the light armor, nothing shiny that might reflect light.\u00a0 She wanted to be quick and stealthy, not heavily armed for combat.\u00a0 That was not her goal.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can watch your back,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI might have to move quickly, and if I\u2019m worried about you I might not move fast enough.\u00a0 It sounds like they have guards and traps set up around their camp, I don\u2019t want to worry about you, besides, I\u2019m not engaging them, only seeing what their camp is like,\u201d Gwen said to her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, all right, but I don\u2019t like it,\u201d Zoe said, crossing her arms.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have no intention of doing anything stupid, go out there and get information, nothing more, nothing less,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 \u201cBesides, I have luck on my side.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPeople I care about can still die,\u201d Zoe said, unhappy.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll use my full power to get back if I have to, I promise,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

She walked back outside meeting up with the man who pointed in the direction the men came left from.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey always come from and leave in this direction,\u201d the man said.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay,\u201d Gwen said, wondering if they did that to hide their camp, or if they were so confident they did not care.\u00a0 Giving Zoe a kiss, she headed off to find the camp.\u00a0 She used her training for signs of the raiders, and for any traps.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

Gwen paused, she had traveled for a while now, and the moon was high overhead.\u00a0 She heard voices on the wind, and knew she was closing in.\u00a0 Taking to the trees she moved in closer, pausing at one branch, seeing a crude trap, and disabled it.\u00a0 Her instinct was confirmed, they had set up traps, and from the looks of it, they did not consider anyone approaching from the trees like she was now doing.\u00a0 She continued to move closer until she could make out the voices.<\/p>\n

\u201cIdiots!\u201d she heard a man say.\u00a0 She extended her aura, feeling around for other fighters.\u00a0 She found about a dozen or so, all around the same power, one was a larger one, and a couple of mages.\u00a0 Quite an impressive collection of people Gwen thought to herself, and they would probably be well organized.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m telling you, that woman was dangerous, took Eric\u2019s sword from him before he could even move.\u00a0 The spell wasn\u2019t working on her,\u201d one voice said, confirming what Gwen thought.\u00a0 They had put a spell on the village as she got a bit closer, now able to see four men in the clearing.\u00a0 Two were the ones she fought, a third had the large power level, and the forth watched in silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s impossible, the spell effects them all.\u00a0 Anyone who enters the town is effected, no excuses\u201d the one with the powerful fighting aura said, and probably the leader of the group.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but-\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo buts, you failed, how I don\u2019t know,\u201d the leader said.\u00a0 \u201cDid you find anything else out?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe bitch has a cute partner, would probably be worth a lot at the slave market,\u201d one finally said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t tangling with that monster again, send someone else if you want that cutie,\u201d the second one said.\u00a0 \u201cShe ripped apart my armor while fighting all three of us, take me a week to get back right.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen smiled at that.\u00a0 He sounded afraid of her, exactly what she wanted them to be.\u00a0 It made things easier, but she also had some questions.\u00a0 How had she beaten the spell?\u00a0 What did the spell effect?\u00a0 Was her fighting level so high it was able to overpower it, or, perhaps, was luck involved?<\/p>\n

\u201cTell me what happened from the beginning,\u201d the leader said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe entered the town like you said, and surprised them real good,\u201d one said.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, they were not expecting us,\u201d the second one said.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnyways, we entered the inn, Eric looked around, and we spotted this cutie, went to take her when that bitch stood up to us.\u00a0 Didn\u2019t back down when threatened, in fact threatened us in return,\u201d the first once said.\u00a0 \u201cWe attacked, but she took Eric\u2019s sword, then fought all three of us before Eric rushed her.\u00a0 She killed him, and we fled.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy didn\u2019t the magic affect her?\u201d the second one said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t \u2018know, she should have been effected, not good,\u201d the leader said, starting to pace in circles.\u00a0 \u201cFirst our meeting with Stephos is delayed, now this.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen stiffed upon hearing that name.\u00a0 So this group was working with Stephos somehow.\u00a0 She wondered what type of power vacuum she had created by killing the man.\u00a0 Rapid footsteps approached them, and she was a young man come running up to him obviously using some sort of wing magic.\u00a0 A courier of some type.<\/p>\n

\u201cLouis, I have news,\u201d the man said, looking right at the leader, giving Gwen a name to the man.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, spit it out, I don\u2019t have all night,\u201d Louis replied back.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, well its Stephos, one of him men came in saying he\u2019s dead,\u201d the man said.\u00a0 Gwen wished she could see Louis\u2019 face better as he heard the news.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u00a0 Impossible!\u00a0 No one is strong enough to take him out.\u00a0 What group got him?\u201d Louis asked, having stopped his pacing.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe rumor on the wind is one woman did it,\u201d the reply came back.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne woman?\u201d\u00a0 Louis said, going silent in thought.\u00a0 Gwen rubbed temple knowing things had gotten complex with that information being out there.\u00a0 It would be sure to come up in conversations all over the place.\u00a0 She would have to be more careful in the future.\u00a0 Louis had turned back to the courier.\u00a0 \u201cDo you have a description?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d the man said.\u00a0 Gwen sighed, luck had been on her side there.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt has to be the same one, who else it strong enough to overcome such magic?\u201d one of the two she fought said.<\/p>\n

\u201cHead back to the camp, and it may not be the same one, there are bounty hunters from the Realm who are stronger than Stephos,\u201d Louis said, obviously smart enough to know such things.<\/p>\n

Gwen watched as they headed in a certain direction before continuing after them.\u00a0 She finally saw the camp laid out before them, and her higher view point gave her a clearer sense of how the camp was laid out.\u00a0 Several tents housing the men were off to one side.\u00a0 A pen for horses and wagons on another side.\u00a0 Cages full of children off to one side, covered with a tent, and several larger tents, one she assumed was Louis\u2019.<\/p>\n

With a rough idea of how the camp was laid out she made her way back to the inn.\u00a0 She paused hearing a man ahead of her, and walking towards the town.\u00a0 She quietly followed, wondering what he might be doing.\u00a0 She did not feel any magic from him, so he was not a mage.\u00a0 Following him she continued on as he made his way around the village and headed to a small camp.\u00a0 He hesitantly approached, seeing an older woman walk out of the tent.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re still here,\u201d the man said, seeing her.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, not that it\u2019s gotten me anything,\u201d the woman said, her tone bitter.\u00a0 Gwen thought she looked a bit familiar but could not recall having ever met her before.<\/p>\n

\u201cLouis wants to know if you\u2019ve been away at any time?\u201d the man said.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I keep my contracts,\u201d she replied back to him.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, otherwise you know what will happen, we\u2019ll kill your daughter,\u201d the man said.<\/p>\n

Gwen sighed, wondering why things were getting complex.\u00a0 She had an idea that the woman was a latgic, but what her ability was, she had no idea.\u00a0 And if she was a latgic, why was Gwen not effected.\u00a0 Was her connection with Zoe cancelling that effect?<\/p>\n

\u201cSo why are you here?\u201d the woman asked, causing Gwen to refocus on the conversation.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe lost a man, someone new entered the town,\u201d the man said.<\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps your man forgot his protection?\u201d the woman said, seemingly uncaring about what happened to the raiders.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d watch that tone of yours,\u201d the man replied back to her.\u00a0 \u201cWe could kill you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou need me too much to kill me, and you have my daughter,\u201d the woman spat out.\u00a0 \u201cI won\u2019t leave, but I can\u2019t help you in this, I don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen took the opportunity to leave the camp and head back to the town.\u00a0 She had some information but now needed to figure out what to do next.\u00a0 Would they try to attack the town tomorrow?\u00a0 She quickly headed back knowing Zoe probably would be waiting for her.<\/p>\n

She found Zoe pacing the floor of the inn, along with a tired innkeeper, and a few more people she did not recognize.\u00a0 Zoe almost launched herself into Gwen\u2019s arms, relieved that she had come back in one piece.\u00a0 Gwen returned the embrace, knowing Zoe had been worried.\u00a0 The rest of the group seemed to not care.<\/p>\n

\u201cMerchants, looking for a place to trade tomorrow,\u201d Zoe said, answering the question she had.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen they got some good news then,\u201d Gwen said, looking around at the group.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019d be careful though, they have a dozen or so fighters, a couple of mages and I am assuming a latgic to go with another dozen people who don\u2019t have powers.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, what\u2019s the plan?\u201d Zoe asked, her voice full of worry.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo plan yet,\u201d Gwen replied, not saying anything about the conversation about Stephos being involved.\u00a0 She figured Zoe did not need to hear that name.\u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t know about you, but freeing the children is a huge priority,\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat type of magic does the latgic have?\u201d one of the villages asked, having listened in.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe could go after this latgic, get rid of him,\u201d another village said.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, she\u2019s being forced, something about her daughter being held captive as well,\u201d Gwen replied.\u00a0 \u201cI think we can come up with a plan in the morning.\u00a0 And without knowing what her magic is, it would be foolish to rush out and confronting her.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen looked at the group, then over at Zoe before heading towards their room.\u00a0 They had no idea she had been at their camp, which gave her a slight advantage.\u00a0 Perhaps in the morning some plan might come around.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

Gwen looked out from the window towards the village.\u00a0 She had woken up early and gently managed to crawl out of bed without disturbing Zoe.\u00a0 She pondered what to do with the slaver group, but nothing came to mind.\u00a0 A full frontal assault meant she was outnumbered by too much.\u00a0 That and they could use the hostages against her.\u00a0 She came to the realization she probably needed help, and no villager with fighting power.<\/p>\n

She paused, feeling a fighting aura approaching the village.\u00a0 Moving to the shadow of the room she watched the road into the village.\u00a0 Finally a person entered her view, but one she did not wish to see.\u00a0 A bounty hunter she knew had high fighting power, and knew she was here.\u00a0 In a town where no one had fighting powers, she stuck out.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomething wrong?\u201d Zoe asked, wrapping her arms around Gwen.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but things might have gone from bad to worse,\u201d Gwen replied, still looking over at the bounty hunter.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone you know,\u201d Zoe asked, looking out the window.<\/p>\n

\u201cMight say that,\u201d Gwen answered, unsure how much to say.<\/p>\n

\u201cOld lover?\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen coughed before replying.\u00a0 \u201cUm, no, nothing like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, come on, I\u2019m hungry,\u201d Zoe said, moving away to get dressed.\u00a0 Gwen took one last look then went to get dressed herself.\u00a0 She thought about hiding in the room and maybe attacking the slaver camp, but the only real problem there, ever plan she came up with, ended in disaster either for her or the children.<\/p>\n

Finally she followed Zoe and headed back to the tavern part of the inn, taking a table.\u00a0 A few more people were eating, including some of the merchants from last night.\u00a0 Probably wishing to get a good day of trading ahead.\u00a0 The innkeeper brought over some breakfast, apologizing for the small amount, stating he did not have much.\u00a0 Zoe thanked him before digging in.<\/p>\n

She noticed they had an egg, and some toast, not too bad, she had worst breakfasts, and better.\u00a0 The door opened allowing Zeltran to enter the room.\u00a0 Gwen froze slightly as their eyes locked.\u00a0 She knew he recognized her, and he also knew she recognized him.\u00a0 To her surprise he moved off and sat down near a corner where he could overlook the room.\u00a0 She was not sure what she expected upon seeing him.\u00a0 Somehow he knew she was alive.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not going to do anything are you?\u201d Zoe asked, having watched the way the two acted.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Gwen replied, wondering what type of question that was.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs he strong?\u201d Zoe asked, catching Gwen off guard with the question.\u00a0 She looked over at Zoe for a second before answering.<\/p>\n

\u201cStrong, yeah, stronger than Stephos,\u201d Gwen said, knowing that most in the hunter\u2019s Guild were strong, and trained.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo why can\u2019t he help you?\u00a0 You two know each other,\u201d Zoe replied.\u00a0 Gwen opened her mouth and shut it thinking of a good reply.\u00a0 However, Zoe stood and made her way over to him.<\/p>\n

Gwen watched dumbfounded, as Zoe talked with Zeltran.\u00a0 She could not hear what they said, but from his body language it appeared Zoe caught him off guard.\u00a0 He looked as uncomfortable as Gwen felt.\u00a0 Zoe became more animated, moving her arms around as she talked.\u00a0 The girl pressed her points and then, Zoe hopped a bit obviously happy about something.\u00a0 Gwen realized Zoe now dragged him across the area to where she was.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello Zeltran,\u201d Gwen said, watching his eyes, hiding well anything he might have thought.<\/p>\n

\u201cGwen,\u201d he replied, almost like a question.\u00a0 She knew by his tone what he meant, the name she used in the Shadowlands, her middle name.\u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re friend here says you need some help?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou might say that,\u201d Gwen replied, knowing he knew her full abilities.\u00a0 \u201cThe problem is the children of the town.\u00a0 They were captured by the slavers, the village asked me to rescue them.\u00a0 The camp has about a dozen fighters, two mages and an additional dozen regulars.\u201d<\/p>\n

She watched him go over that information for a few seconds.\u00a0 Usually a bounty hunter worked for the highest bid, and Zeltran was no different.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou taking on charity missions now?\u201d he asked, looking around the inn.\u00a0 \u201cNot like you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t know me anymore,\u201d Gwen said, hoping to avoid any conversations of the past.\u00a0 He however seemed determined to bring it up.\u00a0 \u201cI could use your help.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe, what\u2019s in it for me?\u201d he replied, giving the answer she thought he would.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe typical bounty hunter question, how about doing something right for a change?\u00a0 Those kids are being sold as slaves, that is illegal even in the Realm,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 She hoped he had some honor to work with.\u00a0 He stood silent for several seconds before making his reply.<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess, however, I have a price,\u201d he told her.<\/p>\n

Gwen looked at him, then at Zoe, and even at the rest of the villagers who had been listening in.\u00a0 She had little choice if she wanted to rescue the kids.\u00a0 He would be stronger than any of the fighters, and knew how to handle himself in a fight.\u00a0 He could also think and act quickly if a situation changed quickly.<\/p>\n

\u201cDeal,\u201d Gwen said.\u00a0 She had a partner, but hoped his price was not too high.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, you saw their camp I take it, you know their numbers,\u201d he said to her getting down to business.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Gwen said, moving plates and glasses around, along with other things making a crude design of the camp.\u00a0 \u201cGeneral layout, most of the personal tents over here, horses stabled over here, the leader\u2019s tent here, his name is Louis, heard it last night.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLouis?\u201d Zeltran said, his voice changing slightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, you know him?\u201d Gwen asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cLouis the slaver, yeah, this might be profitable after all,\u201d he said, suddenly looking much more interested in the layout than before.\u00a0 She wondered who this Louis was, and how much he was worth.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey have traps set out all around the camp, I disabled a few last night, and if we take to the trees, can avoid them,\u201d Gwen said, recalling last night.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat am I, a monkey?\u201d Zeltran replied, looking at her with a raised eyebrow.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can go in front and disable all the traps in your path,\u201d Gwen said, knowing what his answer would be.\u00a0 Partners they might be, but not enough to trust each other.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve gained a sense of humor,\u201d Zeltran said, returning his attention back to the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe children are here, they have a few guards, not many on alert, they must think their traps are effective in keeping people out,\u201d Gwen said to him. \u00a0She had not seen any guards at all last night, but assumed there had to be at least a few.<\/p>\n

\u201cExpected of Louis,\u201d Zeltran said, sitting down as Gwen waited for the explanation.\u00a0 \u201cHe\u2019s been doing this for about a dozen years now.\u00a0 He\u2019ll go, strip a village of all their kids and anyone who can be sold as a slave, then go into hiding for a couple of years.\u00a0 Almost everyone who is involved in the operation meets a mysterious death, which allows him to keep almost all the profit.\u00a0 He has a few higher backers, like Stephos and such who he sells them to.\u201d<\/p>\n

Gwen thought about that, watching Zoe react to the name.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe deals with Stephos,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe did, until recently,\u201d Zeltran said, looking at Gwen, obvious he knew who had killed Stephos.\u00a0 \u201cDoes he know about what happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you mean Stephoes being dead, yeah, a courier informed him last night,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen we have an advantage,\u201d Zeltran said suddenly.\u00a0 \u201cLouis will not move if he has no one to sell the kids to.\u00a0 His focus will probably be on getting a new backer, which means he won\u2019t be expecting a break in.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo we should move fast,\u201d Gwen said.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Zeltran said.\u00a0 \u201cWe should go as soon as possible.\u00a0 I think the best solution is for me to infiltrate the camp, and get the kids out of the cages.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy you?\u2019 Zoe asked, speaking up again.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can pick a lock, part of my skills, I doubt Gwen can,\u201d Zeltran said smugly.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he\u2019s got me on that, I usually rely on brute force,\u201d Gwen said, knowing she never learned that ability.\u00a0 She had been lazy relying on her power for such things.\u00a0 \u201cI take it I\u2019m watching your back for any guards and providing an area for the children to gather.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, it might work, if everything goes to plan, and the kids don\u2019t get too excited,\u201d Zeltran aid.<\/p>\n

Gwen realized that would be the biggest problem, the children.\u00a0 They would have to remain quiet until they were far enough away from the camp.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we should do it at night,\u201d Zeltran said.<\/p>\n

Gwen had no problem with that, it allowed more cover for their escape.\u00a0 \u201cWe should probably leave soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you\u2019re going to do this at night, why leave now?\u201d Zoe asked, confused at the turn in the conversation.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll have to disable the traps to provide a path for the children, and we don\u2019t want to miss any,\u201d Gwen said seriously. \u00a0\u201cIt might take time, especially if they have a few more guards out.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I see,\u201d Zoe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cThen I better get something to eat,\u201d Zeltran said, making his way back over to his table.\u00a0 Gwen considered several angles and knew they had the best solution at the moment.\u00a0 Louis would probably retaliate.\u00a0 They could plan for that after the children were safe.<\/p>\n

End part 9 continued in part 10<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Lucky Luck by AJ Marks Part 9: A Lucky Town   Gwen guided the horse down the path.\u00a0 A gift from Valerie as a peace offering for what she had said, and for services rendered.\u00a0 Gwen and Zoe reluctantly accepted, and Valerie reassured Zoe that the saddle was normal this time.\u00a0 Zoe had fallen asleep […]
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