On quest in Perendale (Azalea)

[Azalea Valdea]

Azalea still couldn't believe she had made it this far in her rescue plan. She had thought, knowing her luck, that she would fall short, and end up having to flee the area for a time before attempting to rescue Louis again. But, she was lucky for once, and was here now thankfully. She was still stricken with a gut wrenching guilt though, especially now that she was up close to Louis, taking note of his wounds and the blood that dripped from the corners of his mouth. Azalea frowned deeply as she looked over Louis, and she cringed, as if she could feel the pain he had felt.

Though Louis had gotten hurt, Azalea was just glad that he was alive. If he had died because of her...she wasn't sure what she would do. She already found that she had grown to deeply care for Louis, and she enjoyed his presence greatly. They were feelings Azalea hadn't really experienced, but she was sure it was something special. And what had occurred last night seemed to solidify these strange feelings. It had been a wonderful night for her, and it was a shame how that moment had been taken from them because of the Templars. Well, if things went well, they could escape together, alive and well.

Louis seemed genuinely surprised that Azalea was there, and he questioned her in a quiet voice. The disguised mage took off her helmet and lightly sat it down on the ground. She smiled a bit sadly at Louis and reached her hand out to gently stroke his battered cheek. "I came to get you out of here, that's what." She said quietly, her eyes softening as she looked at him. "It's great to see you too Louis." Azalea murmured, her sad smile widening a bit. She felt Louis' head drop down to her shoulder before he embraced her and kissed her neck. Azalea wrapped her arms around him, drawing him close to her. She cradled his head to her in a comforting manner, just simply holding him there. Azalea looked up towards the door and sighed softly.

"Ok...let's try then alright? Don't worry, we're gonna get out of here." Azalea said as reassuringly as possible. She carefully helped Louis out of the chair, and allowed him to lean on her should he need it. Azalea began guiding Louis up the stairs, and she opened the door quietly, looking out both ways to see if there was anyone around. There was none, and so Azalea began guiding Louis the same way she had come from, praying the guard she had come across earlier had left. She lead Louis along and pushed open the door to the outside. The guard was not there. Azalea looked out to the trees where she had been earlier, taking note her flame had vanished from the tree. Odd. But, no matter. She turned off, away from the estates and quickly back into town. Azalea back tracked her steps, back towards one of the alleyways she had been hiding in before sneaking into the estate. She gently guided Louis into the alleyway and sat him down on the ground. She knelt down beside him and placed a gentle hand to his face again. "Now, let's see if I can heal you up a little hm?" Azalea said with a soft smile, raising both of her hands over Louis and she began to emit a light aura from her hands. She carefully tried to heal the damage done to his face, and managed to clear away some of the bruising and taken down a great deal of the swelling. Well, at least she was alleviating some of the pain at least. "Did that help a little at least? It's sort of been a while since I've tried to heal someone..." She said with a nervous laugh, though she frowned soon after. Azalea sat down fully then with a heavy sigh. Maker, she could hardly do anything right today it seemed.

[Senior Enchanter Louis]

Being with Azalea again was almost unbelievable, for a moment he had thought he would die and that she had fled the city, but that was not the case, she had remained and she had come to rescue him, of which he was grateful. Resting against her, he listened intently to what she said and he smiled in a weak manner, knowing that there was hope that he would now survive. Just holding around her was great, although he wished she hadn`t seen him so battered and bruised. He looked like a mess and he knew it, yet it didn`t seem to stop her caring for him. Thank the Maker, Louis thought to himself as he felt lucky to have a woman such as Azalea.

Standing up from the chair, Louis leaned on his rescuer and wherever she led him, he followed. Through the door they went, and then up the stairs. From what Louis could see there was none guards around, fortunate for them, but very strange. Where was everyone? Had they all left the mage to be guarded by a simply disguised Templar. It almost made Louis laugh, but he remained silent and kept on walking. As Azalea remained focused on the surroundings, Louis could not avoid looking at her. She was beautiful, and seeing her in Templar armour was different than he was used to, however she looked amazing and gently he smiled at her.

Eventually, Louis and Azalea came to the last door and once it was opened, it became clear that there was none there to stop them. Into an alleyway they went, and as they were safe, Louis was placed down on the ground, where Azalea told she would heal him. Breathing heavily, looking terrible and weak, Louis watched as she placed her hands on him and within a short moment he was healed from top to bottom. His scars grew together, and those bones that had broken during the harassment of the Templars became normal. Louis felt a lot better, and when Azalea was done he turned to her in awe, speechless for a moment, but answered to what she said. “You did great.” He whispered and leaned in to kiss her.

Louis wanted the kiss to last forever, but he knew they couldn`t stay there. If the Templars found out he had escaped, then the Templars would begin to search for him again. It was best for them to get inside, he thought and as his lips parted from Azalea`s, leaning his forehead against hers, he spoke “Merci mademoiselle, you risked your life for me, now I am in your debt…we should get inside somewhere, but first, you need to get rid of your armour.” Louis said and smiled at her teasingly.

[Azalea Valdea]

Azalea couldn't even express how relieved and happy she was that this mess was finally over, at least for the moment. She was glad that Louis would be ok now, and just glad that he was with her again. She still couldn't help but think though that all of this could have been avoided if she had just thought rationally rather than do what she had done. Azalea was half expecting for Louis to scold her for her foolish actions and treat her like an incompetent child. But, so far, Louis didn't. Unless he was waiting until they were entirely safe before yelling at her? Bah, who knows?

She smiled a bit proudly at her handiwork. It had certainly been a while since she had helped to heal anyone, well, other than herself. But Louis certainly seemed a lot better now, and he appeared to be grateful, which made Azalea smile more. She had been just about to thank him for his praise when he leaned in towards her, kissing her gently. Azalea accepted his kiss before kissing him back, smiling against him while doing so. For a minute, the world seemed to stop and all her troubles vanished as they kissed. But, much too soon, Louis' lips parted from hers, and Azalea pouted at him slightly. Her smile quickly returned as he leaned her forehead against hers. She enjoyed being close to Louis, and she wished they could just stay like without any worries. He began speaking then, saying that the really should find somewhere to stay, and that Azalea should ditch the Templar armor. She laughed quietly at that. "You know, I think I finally understand why Templar's are always so cross all the time. Their armor is incredibly uncomfortable." Azalea gave another little laugh. "You're right though we do need somewhere new...I think I found an old abandoned house on my way to the estate. We can try there I suppose." She said with a small shrug of her shoulders before she stood up a little awkwardly. The armor was pretty heavy for her, so it was a wonder how she was able to get back up. Azalea grinned to herself at that thought. She grabbed Louis' hand then and picked up her bag that she had retrieved on the way here, once more leading him to Maker knows where. She began to trace her steps backwards again, trying to remember where the house had been.

After some time, Azalea managed to find the old house, which to her did seem abandoned. It was in a little rougher shape than the ones around it, but not terribly so. Quickly, she made her way behind the house which was in another little alleyway and she gently pushed on the door which gave no resistance and it creaked open a little loudly. "In here." Azalea whispered before slipping inside. The house seemed to be untouched for the most part, only some furniture had been taken it seems. What gave it away as being abandoned, was the amount of dust that lay atop the floor and furniture. Perhaps the original owners had to leave suddenly. Azalea gave a little sigh. "Well...we might just be ok here for a while." She said with a small, shaky laugh. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to change." Azalea said with a little wink before turning away from Louis and into one of the other rooms. Quickly she stripped off the armor, carefully setting down each part of the armor on the ground carefully so it didn't make any noise. One she did this, she rummaged through her bag and pulled out her fairly new dress which she had gotten a few weeks ago during her travels here in Orlais. It was an emerald colored Orlesian dress with golden trimmings, made out of fine material in which Azalea did not know the name of. She then slipped into a pair of flat dress shoes before she made her way back out into the main room where Louis was at. Azalea smiled brightly at him. "Let me tell you, this is so much better than that clunky armor for sure." She said with a mischievous grin before walking over to a rather large, comfortable looking chair that sat near an old fire place. She patted the chair lightly next to her and she grinned. "Well, now I supposed we need to come up with a new plan then I take it?" Azalea said with a small sigh, crossing her leg over the other.

[Senior Enchanter Louis]

Seeing Azalea smile and laugh quietly at his words and actions, made Louis smile back even more as he leaned his forehead against hers, but what she said about the Templar armour was most likely true. The very thought of it, made Louis laugh as well. Then as she came up with the suggestion to move into an abandoned house she had seen earlier, he agreed by whispering. “Sounds fitting, then maybe we will get to finish what we began earlier.” Louis spoke teasingly again, shooting a glance across her as he was curious to see what hid beneath the armour, although loving the view as it was. What he aimed at by saying that was about their moment on the hayloft, before they could easily have relaxed that morning after their fun, the Templars had intervened and ruined all chances for cuddling and perhaps another round. Now as they again would be able to relax, perhaps there was a possibility to share some time together in peace and silence.

Allowing Azalea to lead the way, Louis followed the best he could, observing the surroundings and watching out for Templars. This time, he would make sure there would be no surprises; never again would Louis take any risks, knowing from experience that the Templars should not be underestimated. The conversation he had shared with the Seeker had not been a pleasant one, nor did he want to repeat it. The man had been cruel and told horrible things about Azalea, lies which he had believed, but which had been proven wrong once he was rescued. Thank the Maker that it wasn`t true, if they had been, then he would have died with guilt and sorrow in his heart. Just being with Azalea again was a miracle, one that he appreciated greatly and which he would cherish and risk his life for.

Spotting an entrance to the abandoned house in another alleyway, Louis went with Azalea through the backdoor. What they could see as they entered was a room larger than expected, and it seemed from what Louis understood, that the house may have belonged to someone wealthy, although none seemed to have cared about its left furniture’s that was covered by sheets and dust. With great curiosity, Louis stopped to watch, but when Azalea told she was going to change clothes he gave her a look and smiled. He wanted to follow her, but like a gentleman he chose to remain.

Once she stepped into another room, Louis went forward to study what was around. The shelves still had books in them, the walls still its paintings and around lots furniture’s that had remained untouched. In silence he looked over it all, taking careful steps as he tried to figure who the house had belonged too. Removing the sheets one by one, he realized that a lot was decorated in Orlesian fashion, but the best hint he got of who could have owned the place, was the most significant painting on wall, of which portrayed a noble, whose name was engraved at the bottom: Baron Eugène Folquet.

Just as Louis realized what kind of place they had stepped into, Azalea came back in. Louis wanted to tell her immediately what he had figured out, but his words quickly vanished when he turned and saw her in the new emerald dress. She was a beauty and Louis got speechless, not knowing what to say or what to do, although kept his eyes on her as she moved across the floor to sit down next to the fireplace. Intently he listened to what she had to say, and as she finished speaking, patting the seat by her side for him to sit, he came over. His gaze ventured from her crossed legs to her face, but when he reached her, he took her hand and kissed it. “You look beautiful, my dear.” He said smiling as he sat down, holding her hand still. “You are right, we should plan what to do next, and I believe we should soon continue our mission oui? We have yet to find food, water and other sorts of equipment. Perhaps we should stay her a while, until dawn, shouldn`t be long before the sun is up and then the city will be crowded by citizens, easier for us to mingle when there are many in the streets, also the shops should be open by then.” He glanced at her, and then turned the focus at the fireplace, thinking that they should get some warmth. It was beginning to get cold, and Louis was still shirtless, only wearing pants.

[Azalea Valdea]

It was a relief to be inside, safe and sound. Azalea couldn't help but wonder though; how safe were they? And how long would they be safe? For all they knew, Templars could burst through the door at any moment, ready to take them away once more, and making sure they didn't escape. She frowned at the thought. No, there was no need to think about such troubling thoughts at the moment. Hadn't there been enough negativity today? She was just glad that Louis was safe, and that she had been able to heal him. Azalea still felt guilty, and probably would for a very long time.

This house was a bit impressive, though it still made Azalea wonder why most of its contents remained here. Well, not that it mattered she supposed, seeing as they would be leaving it soon anyways. Her biggest worry was if Templars would check the place or not.

Azalea couldn't help but smile brightly at Louis' silent reaction to her new attire. She had worn this on purpose, seeing as the robes she had been wearing were dull in comparison to what she wore now. She wanted to look pretty for him, feeling that he deserved that at least. When Azalea sat, Louis followed, lightly grabbing her hand and kissing it, saying that she was beautiful. Her smile remained but it held a soft, shy tone to it, much like the smiles she had the previous night. "Thank you Louis." She said quietly, lightly squeezing his hand affectionately and leaning in to kiss him on the cheek. She then listened quietly and intently as he spoke about what they should do, and she nodded.

"Sounds like a good plan. It's going to be a long day tomorrow though." She said with a sigh, looking over to the fireplace before looking back at Louis. It had only just occurred to her that he must be freezing, seeing as all he managed to keep on were his pants. Azalea stood up, slipping her hand from Louis' as she strode over to the fireplace. She crouched down towards it, noting a few logs that were left untouched inside. Azalea sent out a small flame, catching the logs in the fireplace on fire. The fire crackled and began to burn away at the logs, causing warmth to spill out from inside it. She then wondered if perhaps there would be some clothes that had been left behind, seeing as so much was still in the house. Azalea got up and quickly disappeared into the room that she had used to change and began rummaging through a dresser on the other side of the room. To her surprise, she did in fact find some clothes. She pulled out a thick looking black shirt and vest, and a new pair of trousers just in case Louis wanted to ditch the ones he was wearing now. Azalea came back into the room with the bundle of clothes in her arms, sitting in the chair beside Louis and handing them over to him.

"There. I hope that makes you feel a bit better." Azalea said with a small laugh, looking at poor Louis. A frown crossed her face then and she looked away towards the ground. "I was so scared for you today Louis. I thought that they were going to kill you, and if they had, it would have been all my fault." She murmured, just hardly above a whisper. Azalea looked up at him then, tears brimming in her eyes. She wiped at her eyes with the back of her hand and gave a little smile. "I suppose there is no use moaning over it now. We're both okay, and safe for a while." Azalea said with a laugh, trying to comfort herself more than anything. She leaned in towards him then, resting against him. It was then that she realized how tired she felt then. It had been a very long, terrifying day, and Azalea was more than ready to just forget about it for a while. Azalea snuggled against him, letting out a yawn in the process. She then smiled up at Louis, reaching up to give him a light, gentle kiss before once more resting against him.

Fade~

Azalea had been awake for quite some time now. She had slept somewhat peacefully for the most part, but still felt exausted. However, here she was, out wandering about the abandoned house, restless. Dawn was only just arriving, and it's pale light was starting to filter into the house. After some time, the young mage grew curious about if there were many others outside now in the streets. Azalea quietly went to the back door where she and Louis had entered in earlier and peeked outside. Bravely, yet cautiously, the red haired girl went down the alleyway and peeked out into the street. Her eyes widened some as she noted a wagon just across the street. Inside the wagon, Azalea could just make out various weapons and even armor inside it. She was unsure if there was anything else in there, but Azalea wasn't about to just run on over and go through the wagon...just in case.

She darted back into the alleyway and into the house, a bit excited as she entered. "Louis! You'll never believe what I just seen near here!" Azalea called, a bright grin on her face. "There's a wagon full of equipment! I think it's Templar equipment, but, it could be useful to us, no?" She said with excitement. Finally! Something good was happening...hopefully.

[Senior Enchanter Louis]

As Azalea squeezed Louis`s hand lightly and kissed his cheek out of appreciation, he in return answered with a big smile on his face, glancing at her eyes as he looked deeped into her soul. She was beautiful and her new dress made her look even greater, oh how lucky he was, he thought, to have such a woman who would risk and do anything for him. It was something he had not imagined would ever happen, yet it had. When he lived in the circle, he had looked upon life as a game, where one either played it right, or failed and got killed. Now with the world changed, there was no game anymore, only survival, and with love in life, Louis felt scared to lose what he had gained. The moment between him and Azalea was shared in silence after the kiss, and for a short time they simply looked at each other, joyful and happy, that was until a small breeze came blowing into the house.

Sitting there half naked in the chair, shivering, Louis listened to what Azalea said about his plan and in agreement he nodded, moving his gaze from her to the fireplace. Then before he could ask about it, Azalea stood up and began to light it. Finally some warmth appeared, but still it wasn`t entirely enough. Winter had certainly arrived, although it was good to be indoors. Looking at Azalea, Louis believed her fire abilities was a good thing to know in such times, especially seeing how much it could be of use. Just as he reached out for Azalea, wishing her to come and sit on his lap, she instead went passed him and into another room. Curiously he watched from where he sat, wondering what she was doing, but when she returned it became clear.

In her arms she held a bundle of clothes and they were all for him, she had seen him shiver and out of kindness she wanted to help him. “Oh, merci mademoiselle, you are very kind.” Louis answered thankfully and accepted the clothes she gave him while she sat down next to him, immediately he began dressing himself, but listened to every word Azalea spoke. There was sadness in them, and worry, she had feared for his life when the Templars took him and she felt guilty.

Putting on the last piece of clothing which was the vest, Louis turned to look at Azalea again and he could see tears in her eyes, which he responded to by kindly removing the tears that ran down her cheeks. Listening to what she said, he after her words answered as he allowed her to rest on his shoulder, embracing her with love. “You are not to blame for others misfortunes Azalea, you did what you could and what you thought was right, that is enough. One cannot change what is already destined to happen, The Maker has a plan for us all, even in the darkest of times.” Louis said and smiled at Azalea who looked up at him, cuddling close as they both grew tired of the exhausting day.

- Fade -

The night became day, and after a few hours Louis woke up startled, realizing Azalea was no longer with him. Where was she, what had happened, was it all just a dream? Louis stood up confused, looking around as he tried to figure her whereabouts. Nervously he walked from room to room; calling for her to show up while he became almost desperate. Had something happened, maybe the Templars had taken her? It was a worrying thought, but searching through the house and finding no answers made the possibility that she had gone outside stronger. Then just as he went to reach for the backdoor, Azalea came in, bringing good news.

“Thank the Maker, you are alive, you are here!” Louis spoke worried as he rushed over to Azalea, grabbing her hands to seek comfort as he hugged her shortly after. “Wait, what…Templar equipment?” Louis continued as he allowed what she had said to sink in, giving her a frown of questions. “That would…certainly be useful, and it would spare us the time gathering what we need, but stealing…stealing is wrong…” He hesitated, thinking about, yet agreeing. “If the Maker has given us hope like this, we should take the chance. If we are lucky, this may aid a lot of our people." He said with a smile as he cupped Azalea`s head in his hands, giving a decisive look. "Show me where...”

[Azalea Valdea]

Azalea had failed to take Louis possibly getting worried about her random disappearance into consideration. She had once again acted on impulse and had went outside alone when she probably shouldn't have. The girl had assumed Louis would still be sleeping or relaxing by the time she got back inside. But, she would find out soon enough that she had thoroughly scared him. She really must learn to stop wandering around alone. Especially after the events from yesterday. Azalea very well could have been snatched up by Templars, and Louis would have been none the wiser.

She felt a pang of guilt when she stepped in the door and hearing Louis call after her. Though she couldn't help but feel happy to know that he cared about where she had gone off to. After yesterday, no one could blame Louis for being so cautious. Azalea really must learn from him, and yet, she still does rather silly things. The young mage was actually a little startled when her beloved ran to her, praising the Maker that she was alright before hr grabbed her hands and hugged her. Azalea hesitated for only a split moment, seeing as she was still a little shocked before she embraced Louis back. "Yes, yes I'm fine Louis dear. Sorry I didn't mean to get you worried." She said with a little laugh, stroking Louis' cheek lovingly and smiling up at him.

He seemed pleased then, about the discovery of equipment. Though his own guilty conscious was telling him that stealing was bad. Azalea shook her head a little, a small, rueful smirk on her face. "Well, beating a poor boy mercilessly is also wrong love." She pointed out, reminding him of what occurred yesterday.

"You never know, this could be a sign from Him. And even if it isn't, this could still help us out, if even a little. And even if we couldn't find use for it, we can always make sure the Templars can't use it yes?" Azalea said mischievously, grinning brightly. Louis cupped her head then, asking her to show him the equipment. Gently, Azalea reached her hand to grab one of Louis', and she held onto it, giving him a smile before she turned to open the door. The red haired mage pulled Louis along down the alleyway, never letting go of him even as she stopped at the very edge. "Right there, just across from here." Azalea spoke quietly, pointing out the wagon just across the way.

[Senior Enchanter Louis]

Being touched by Azalea`s hands and then hearing her comforting words made Louis smile, he knew she had not intended to make him worried, but none the less he could not hide that he had been. She meant a lot to him; in fact she was the only woman that made him feel this way. Never had he felt so strongly for someone before, it made Azalea unique and Louis loved everything about it. Curious and intently he listened to every word she said, and he agreed; beating a man was also wrong. The Templars was no longer who they used to be, all they cared about these days was hunting Mages, believing the world would be better off without them. If only it could have been what Louis wanted it to be, what his fraternity believed and hoped for. Then perhaps Louis and Azalea could have lived together in peace, instead of being constantly on the run. What the future held in store for them he could not tell and the very thought of nightmares becoming reality scared him more than he dared to admit.

Standing still in complete admiration he kept his gaze on Azalea, feeling fortunate to have met her. Some would probably have claimed her to be a bad influence on him, considering how easy she talked him into things, such as stealing. Although she was right, the equipment was there’s for the taking and it was either that or many innocents would die, the Mages at Andoral`s Reach needed it, especially the young and old if they were to survive the cold winter. To what Azalea suggested, he nodded and replied. “You are right, my dear, but let us grab this opportunity to save lives. Afterall we need this more than anyone.” He spoke seriously and allowed her to take his hand, to guide him out and toward what she had seen.

Down the alleyway they went together and on the corner they stopped, spotting the wagon on the other side of the street. They had been lucky, there it was full of food, drinks and much else, but taking it would not be easy, as it was guarded by Templars and other folk. “I see it, whoa…the Maker smiles upon us today, well done mademoiselle.” Louis whispered as he took a peek and tapped Azalea shoulder. “Now we must figure a way to get it, the street is getting more crowded by the minute and Templars watch the area.” He continued and tried to look for clues on what to do.

Then Louis remembered something, the people who had complained to the authority the day earlier. It was something they could use, create a diversion of sort. The Templars was obviously from Orlais, which the Nevarran guards of course hated, and from where he stood he could see the tension between them. He knew from reading history books that Perendale had once belonged to Orlais, and from what he had discovered in the city itself that the villagers seemed terrible sick of being suppressed by the Nevarrans. “I have an idea.” Louis whispered to Azalea and gave her a look of concern, as well hope.

“It is risky, but I believe it can work. See those two Nevarrans guards?” He asked and pointed at them, who stood not far from the wagon and the Templars. “They do not seemed pleased with what`s going on, and the Templars seems suspicious of them.” Louis spoke and paused, afraid of what he was going to suggest, but went ahead. “I can not go and speak to them, because they know me, but they don`t know you, they haven`t seen you. I need you to go there and start a fight, between the Templars and the Guards.” He said and waited for an answer, holding Azalea`s hand kindly as he turned her to look at him. “It will give us the moment we need to steal the wagon…”

[Azalea Valdea]

Well, at least Louis had calmed down a bit. It was endearing to know he cared, especially after yesterday's events. Nothing was certain, and anything could happen to them from this point on. It made Azalea a little guilty about her own carelessness. She had become so use to doing things her own way and running around without hardly a care. But, that was when she had been on her own, traveling from place to place. She never had to worry about anyone else except for herself, but, that would need to change now wouldn't it? At least for Louis' sake it would need to change some, and it would hopefully. Azalea cared very much for the young man, even if the two shared different philosophies at times. But these past few weeks of knowing him, and these past couple days especially, she realized that she did indeed care for him in a way that went far beyond the means of friendship. And it was only until yesterday that she realized how distraught she was at temporarily losing him, and how he made her so very happy he was around. If only things could be so much simpler. If there was no war, no Templars aiming to wipe out the mages, no need for entombing Circles, or harsh judgements from others. But then, if none of this occurred, would Azalea be here now? She pondered this for a moment, and knew she wouldn't be, and therefore, she never would have met Louis. So, perhaps there always is a spot of light in the dark of the world, and he was that light for her right now.

When Louis spoke, Azalea couldn't help but feel a bit triumphant in convincing him on taking the supplies. After all, he had thrown a fit a couple days ago when she had stolen food from one of the merchants. But now here he was agreeing with her on taking the Templar wagon. "See? I knew you'd come around to the idea. I think the Templars can survive without a few supplies." She said with an amused smile.

Now the two stood at the edge of the alleyway, eying the wagon full of supplies. It wasn't a whole lot, but it was a lot more than what the two of them could scrounge together. At least a few bellies might get full from this, and a few mages will have some new armor at least. She gave a beaming smile at Louis' praise for finding the unattended wagon. But then a frown crossed her face as Louis pointed out how crowded the street was getting. "Ugh, Maker's Breath why do things need to be so difficult?" Azzy groaned, crossing her arms. She turned her head to look back at her companion as he mentioned he had an idea. "Oh" Azzy asked, curious.

Azalea mulled over Louis' words, furrowing her brow in thought. She frowned as she looked over at the guards and the Templars. How in the world was she to start a fight between them? She sighed as Louis turned her around to face him, speaking quietly with her. Azalea looked up at him, a bit unsure about this. But, she knew he was right. "I know. You're right." She murmured before leaning her head on his shoulder for a moment. With another sigh, she looked back to the guards. "I think I may have an idea how to do this...but I don't think either of us is going to like it." She stole a look at the guards. Ugh. The things she did to help others. She decided, for a bit of added effect for her plan, she let down her hair from the buns they were in. She grimaced inwardly, really dreading what she was going to do. Azzy looked back at Louis with an almost shameful look on her face. She quickly embraced him before exiting the alleyway, just wanting to get this over with before she chickened out.

The young woman crossed over towards the guards, who in fact did seem quite irritated in the presence of the Templars. She put on the most alluring smile she could possibly conjure up as she walked towards the guards. "Hello boys." Azalea said with a seductive purr, drawing the attention of the guardsmen. She flipped her hair, still flashing a smile. The guards looked her over, which made her feel rather disgusted. Well aren't you a pretty little thing? One of the guards said. Ugh. Wonderful. She noticed that one of the Templars were looking over as well, which sparked a bit of anger in her. Azalea walked closer and gave a conspiratorial look at the guards. "So, I heard those Templars over there saying some very mean things about you guys..." She said quietly, flicking her gaze over to the group of Templars. Oh? Asked one of the guards. "Yes. I heard them say how they all could beat you guys in a fight. Surely that isn't true? Such handsome men like you surely must be stronger than those silly Templars right?" She said with another seductive purr, even going as far as to touch one of the men. Oi! Those bastards said that? "Oh yes they did. I heard them myself. I even tried to tell them they were all full of it and they yelled at me." Azzy said with a pout. Oi, well we'll show them a thing or two! Roared one of the guards and they all stormed off towards the Templars. And very quickly a brawl exploded between the two groups.

Quickly, Azalea fled towards the wagon, looking back at the alley and waving for Louis to come and help her. Now was their chance, and they would need to be quick about it.

[Senior Enchanter Louis]

Louis could tell that Azalea did not like what she had to do, and nor did he, but if they were ever to succeed in their plans and get away with it, then this had to be done. While being worried, as well trusting Azalea with the task, he became more stunned by her beauty when she suddenly unbundled her red hair. She was pretty and Louis was amazed, but knowing that soon other people would see a side from her that rarely was revealed made him slightly jealous. Nervously he embraced Azalea back as she hugged him, and as she went across the street to flirt with the guards he observed, scouting to see if any trouble came her way.

Luckily the plan seemed to work, Azalea was a great actress and with her talents she managed to start a brawl by throwing insults at the Templars. Genius, Louis thought to himself, but then noticed as the brawl begun to intensify between the two groups; The Orlesian Templars and the Nevarran guards, Azalea moved away from them and called for him to come. With a smile on the face he ran to her side and jumped on the front of the wagon, reaching out a hand for Azalea to grab so that she would get up.

Meanwhile behind the wagon, the guards and Templars drew the citizens into the conflict, which only made it worse. The citizens who once had belonged to the Orlesians Empire came to support the Templars, and as they through himself at the Nevarran guards, more reinforcement came into view and before one knew it the small brawl that had begun became a full riot.

With a glance at Azalea, Louis spoke proudly. “Well done mademoiselle, seems like our business here is over, let’s go!” Then as he took the reins of the horses he commanded them to gallop, and with great speed they went. The Templars who was supposed to guard the wagon had forsaken their duty, and when they noticed the wagon began to move they ran after it and shouted “Come back here you thieves!!” Only then to be attacked from behind by the city guards again.

Through the streets of Perendale Louis steered the wagon, trying to avoid running down the people, as well trying to avoid more attention, even though such a thing was difficult when they passed the estate of the Duke, who had just woken up to witness chaos as he stepped out of his home. In anger and frustration he ordered his men to do something, but was powerless as it all had gone out of hand. When the Seeker came up to confront him, Louis simply waved at them both as they went by and after a few minutes they managed to escape the city, before the city gates had even closed.

Onto the countryside Louis and Azalea escaped and when they came in good distance away from Perendale, he stopped the wagon to look back. “Oh Maker, what have we done…” He spoke in shock and disbelief as he saw the city in flames.