A/n

As I said when I started to write and post this story, I'm doing this on the side and so it won't be a regular updated story. I have updated the first two chapters and reposted them. Forgive me if there're spelling errors or grammatical mistakes, I try my best to correct them, but I'm human so I ain't perfect. On to the chapter!

Chapter 3: Princess Among Thieves

The four of us set out from Colossea shortly after the battle with mutt mutt. Our destination being the old guy Nero's 'house', if you could call that structure a house… it was questionable. Where the journey had started with just Ryu and me traveling together, now had turned into a party of sorts; after all, the number traveling in the group had doubled. It was the morning of the next day when we had trekked over the mountains to where we had hidden Bow. And as it happened there was a small bit of progress that was showing, meaning that Bow had actually do work while Ryu and I had been gone.

Of course, Bow wanted an accounting of what had been happening with Ryu… and me, though he failed to mention me. Whether Bow had forgotten that I had traveled with my little brother, or just didn't wish to hear me talk and so didn't mention me at all; is beside the point for the moment. Yet, I don't like being treated like I'm invisible! I can confirm the reason later and deliver the consequence that is deserved. It took around an hour to tell the story of what had happened and gone down at Colossea and the coliseum. Bow stared at Ryu and sighed, "Oh, It's been tough hasn't it Ryu?"

I wanted to ask Bow what he would he know about having things tough; but I was polite and contained myself. After all, how many times have I ended up bailing their rears out of trouble that they got themselves into?!

"… Is Baba's name Ryu? … Both names are weird." Muttered Katt.

When I heard Katt say that I turned to look over at her and spoke without thinking, "Don't say someone's name is weird. If we didn't have different names than it would be harder to address one another."

I'm a stickler for manners; just the way I am. Bow had gotten Ryu aside and started whispering to him, "Say, Ryu… Rand looks like he could help with the repairs, but Katt doesn't look too bright…" Bow glanced over at the female fighter before he continued, "… I have a feeling if I let her repair something, she'll break it instead."

Normally I wouldn't agree with Bow as he doesn't look at all the facts of a situation most of the time. However, … in this instance… he does have a valid point that is hard to deny. I had slipped over to where the two novice rangers were and put forth my opinion, "For once, I have to agree with you Bow… rare as it is." I muttered

"Baba… Oh, sorry, Ryu. What are you whispering about?" asked Katt.

The three of us glance to Katt who had come towards us. Bow was flustered at the question, to which I smirked at the sight. Don't doubt I'll enjoy this scene as I do believe Bow is about to make a fool of himself. "We were um… talking about the repairs on this house." Said Bow.

Bow was digging himself a Deep hole. Katt's reply was quick, "Repairs?! That's easy!"

HA HA HA, he doesn't fail to disappoint! Knew Bow was digging himself a deep hole, the amusement comes in watching him make it deeper as we speak… it is immensely entertaining to watch the dog do it.

"Oh, no no! Rand and I can handle the repairs. Katt would you go with Ryu and Kai to find the female thief?" replied Bow quickly.

… Wait, so since you don't want to deal with her Bow; you dump her onto that laps of Ryu and myself?! Typical of him… Bow gets himself into a mess and he expects Ryu, me or both to take care of the problem. It's times like this, that I kind have wished Ryu hadn't met Bow and hadn't been nice and let him travel with us. Katt interestingly, had no problem whatsoever; she seemed to get more enthusiastic about going with us.

"What? Okay… I can do that. Well then let's go!" Said Katt

The next thing my little brother and I knew, Katt had grabbed each of us by a wrist and dragged us towards the door. She stopped when we got to the doorway, "We'll go now to find that female thief. You can depend on us! We'll find her!"

After saying that, Katt drug Ryu and I out and away from the ruined structure. It was after we had traveled a couple hundred yards, before Ryu and I managed to stand on our feet and began to walk on our own. We had a short discussion on what the three of us should do next in this search and agreed to go back to Newhaven for some more information. Nightfall was starting to fall when we arrived at the city that was our current destination. When we had entered the city, I had a thought. Ryu's room that he rented, was really only big enough for two occupants to use well; and Bow wasn't one for keeping things clean. It would probably be a better idea for Katt to stay at my place as it is bigger and I can take the sofa for a night. I turned to Katt and spoke in a soft voice, "Say Katt, as the room Ryu used to share with Bow isn't that big; why not stay at my place for the night?"

I turned to Ryu, "Ryu, go up and get some sleep back at your room. I'll take Katt to my place and let her stay for the night." I said to my little brother.

Ryu stared at me for a bit, then nodded slowly. So, we parted ways at the entrance of town. I led Katt through town and to the small gate that opened to the path to my house. When we got on the path and my place was in view; Katt got a look of awe on her face. I smirked a bit at catching that expression, "Glad you are impressed by my place. I have taken good care of it and so have pride in its appearance. It may not be large or extravagant, but it is enough for me and fits what I want." I remarked with a bit of pride.

Well, I gave Katt a short tour of my place. Then set about preparing dinner; suggesting that Katt take the time to wash up, which she did. I could have dinner made and done by the time she had washed up. Katt used the bathroom while I slipped out and got supplies from the market and brought them back home and started to cook a meal. When we had finished the meal, I gave Katt my bed and took the sofa in the sitting room.

The next morning Katt and I got up and had breakfast before leaving the house. We met Ryu back in town and we began going around in the attempt to find more info on the thief we were out to find and retrieve. Admittedly, I may not always get along with Bow… okay, I rarely get along with him. He's annoying and often treats me like I'm invisible or not even there and I'm the one that often bails him and Ryu out of trouble. Yet, even with faults like that, doesn't mean he deserves being treated like a criminal. The dog may get into trouble, which I believe he needs to understand and experience the consequences. However, Bow shouldn't be blamed for a wrong he didn't do; that's wrong!

We rounded a corner and started down the street that the school people go along; if I recall correctly, the building on this street was a school for magic arts. I've no need to learn what they could teach me there, so I don't really know what all goes on there, nor do I really care enough to find out. My knowledge in magic is great and the type is one that they haven't a clue about and are less likely to be able to perform! When we got closer to the place we heard a commotion. We came to a stop as we got to the stage of the show that was happening right now. There were three guys, everything about them screamed lowlife dirt bags. Those three were in front of a women who I would guess was around 17 in age. She had long blonde hair that went beyond her waist, was wearing a blue dress that had slits that started just below the hips. The most noticeable thing about her would be her large black wings. That would mean she's a member of the wing clan, even with the unusual wing color… only know one other with that color, but I'm getting off topic.

As the three of us looked on the scene of the group of bandits making complete idiots of themselves by their attempts to 'pick up this Windian'. The lady was clearly not interested in the three dumbos' advances, even a child would be able to see that. Yet the said idiots, weren't taking the blatantly obvious hint they were being given and that was likely going to come back to bite them! A big rule of thumb I have learned on my world travels as a ranger and when I wasn't a ranger… that being, ticking off a Windian… is one of the dumbest mistakes you can make… and you may not live to regret the choice. Their abilities with magic beat almost everyone else and ain't fun to be on the receiving end of their magic! Hence, why I got a smile on my face when the young woman used thunder to send the group packing and running. And by what I can see, this young black winged Windian has an amazing natural talent with magic even for her clan. After taking care of the trash that had been bothering her, the woman turned around and enter the magic school.

"Wow!" exclaimed Katt.

Ryu and I turned to look at Katt after we heard that. She looked from me to Ryu, an expression of wonder and excitement, "… Say this is a Magic school right? Can I also learn some tricks?" She asked.

Ryu looked at me with a look that said he hoping I could answer Katt's question. I sighed and nodded to Katt, "Yes this happens to be a school to teach magic to those who wish to learn. However, it can…" I began.

"All right! Let's go you two!"

Our traveling companion interrupted me and she grabbed both Ryu and I, then proceeded to drag us into the school. Not even letting me finish my explanation to her about how learning magic can be very hard and not everyone can do spell work, like that Windian woman had. In fact, that kind of magical talent is rare for one so young! And I wouldn't doubt she's practice for years to have that type of control! Learning and perfecting magic casting skill is time consuming!

When we got into the school; Katt let go of us and Ryu and I fell to the floor. I got up first closely followed by Ryu. I saw that Katt was looking around like a kid let loose to play. I turned my head to have my gaze on my little brother, "As Katt is having fun exploring right now; should we go around seeing what we can learn from the students at the school?" I suggested.

Ryu nodded and so we walked around mingling with the students here. Some of the pieces of information were as follows:

"Rumor has it that Mt. Rocco to the east is a den of thieves and cutthroats. Better keep away from that place."

"Lately there's been some strange people roaming around, but it's not you guys. It is a bad group of people called the Joker Gang."

Those were the general messages that I got from the students here. I had heard of the ones that had referred to from some of the other members of the Ranger's Guild… troublesome lot I'm to understand, but can't say for myself. When Ryu and I got back together, we exchanged information and found that the message was the same; that being the 'Joker Gang' was causing trouble around town. Ryu, even when we had our exchange of information, he had said this, "The Joker Gang?! Yeah, I have heard of them and that they have been the trouble makers held up in Mt. Rocco. I thought the Guild was taking care of them?"

Oh Ryu… you have just been starting working jobs in the Guild; so you might not know about the problems this gang of thugs and lowlifes has been causing. Complaints from those in the town and the surrounding area and so the Ranger's Guild had been asked to deal with the gang. Nodding to being answer Ryu I gave what I knew about this issue, "Oh the Guild is attempting to; it's just none of the said attempts have worked at solving the problem or taking care of the gang causing those problems, yet at least. I have heard Sylvia say that Elder Allen had been thinking of calling in some of us veterans in to help get the problem settled. Don't know if that will happen; though if it does, I kind of hope I get to do it. I have always liked taking thieves and giving them their just reward."

It was then Katt found us again and she was still as excited as before. As she was telling us what she had seen; a pair of students passed by and the three of us overheard their conversation.

"The people of Windia have white wings. But for some strange reason, Nina has wings as black as night. Born under ominous stars that one…" said one of the female students.

Ryu and I stared after the pair of students for a moment. I shook my head and Ryu just looked a little confused. It was then Katt spoke up, "Hey Ryu, Kai; have either of you hear of this 'Nina'?" she asked.

"Not really. I haven't been here to the magic school. Have you Kai?" Ryu inquired.

I sighed at the two, "You two already forget that particular description fits the woman we saw shoo away those three troublesome bandits from earlier?" I posed.

My two companions were silent. I thought for a moment, "Well anyways, I have been here once or twice. But as the magic school rarely has need of the Ranger's Guild, there is little interaction if any at all. However, I'm usually out on missions, so I can't say much about this place."

We were heading to the final classroom where hopefully the master of the school would be. Perhaps the head of the school could clear up somethings and we might have a more complete picture of what was going on. When we were just outside the door the sound of voiced came to our ears. The first voice was a woman, "I'm very sorry Jordi. I used my magic outside the school bounds…"

"… This is a grace matter indeed. Please explain." That was a man's voice, likely the master of this school, Jordi as the woman had call him.

I have heard things about the man; just never met him in person. "I'm certain you've heard of the Joker Gang. Some of their members attempted to accost me and I had to defend myself…" came the woman's voice again.

Would've listened for longer, but Katt kept going forward and so we entered into the room with Katt in the lead. "`Scuse us!" greeted Katt.

""*Sigh* Katt…"" Ryu and I grumbled in sync.

We're brothers as we do prove on occasions such as this! Both the older man and the blonde woman turned and looked at our merry little band.

"Did I hear you say you had a goon problem? Never fear, we're here!" Our female companion announced.

What is this?! Some hero or heroine being an idiot and proclaiming their fight for justice?! This is why the smart trouble makers take this time to do damage and kill the person who is being like this horrible idea most mistake for being a hero. Hence, why many who do this get killed before they get all that far.

"For the nominal fee of, say, some free magic lessons for three deserving heroes, we'll take care of those jokers for you!" Katt stated.

… That can be seen as extortion. Besides, I really don't need to be taught; I already know a good and rare regiment of magic Katt. I just have to show restraint as the magic I know has a lot of power and hits indiscriminately, ignoring the difference between friend and foe. …It's called Ancient magic and is a dangerous kind and isn't fun to be on the receiving end of! Plus, ancient magic takes large amounts of power to cast and the average person doesn't have anywhere near enough. Most accomplished magic users don't have the energy to do ancient magic; the reason I can is the massive reserves… similar to what dragons are known to have! It's one of the perks of my heritage. The particular perk is why I can do quite a lot of what I can do. After Katt had stated her 'offer' the older man smiled at her, "Well, well. If only all my students showed such an appetite for learning. So, you want to learn the ways of magic, do you?"

A nice man to be a teacher… especially as magic isn't easy or simple to learn and use. "Yes! Yes-yes-yes-yes-yes-yes! You teach us some magic, and we'll teach those goons a lesson!" Katt cheered.

… Nice girl Katt is and has a good heart; but… doesn't understand anything about magic or the work it takes! The master of the school shook his head, "… I'm afraid that's impossible." He said.

I picked up the noise of boot falls approaching the room. My gaze flicked to the door and I saw one of the bandits from earlier that we had seen 'Nina' scare off… or so I thought. The guy had a smug grin on his face as he watched us… which very much irked me. Here comes trouble! Better get ready to take care of it before it gets too far out of hand. Grabbed one of my throwing knives by the hilt; preparing to move in and disable or take out the guy as this situation will require. Jordi continued speaking as I did this, "Magic is not something that can be learned in the blink of an eye. It takes time and patience to master the arcane arts… and patience is one thing I doubt the ruffians have."

The bandit spoke up after Jordi finished, "Ha ha ha, that's ri-i-ight. Guess who's comin' to dinner grandpa! Aw, is little Nina surprised we came back after she gave us a little owie? It'll take more than that to stop us! Ya see we just can't keep our hands offa ya… and your baby sister's a fine piece o' work too! Ha ha ha…"

The next instant said bandit found a knife at his neck, which was the throwing knife I had grabbed and was holding. As he said it would take more than what he and his fellow bandits had taken already; I'll try my method and sees how it does. The idiot couldn't get away from me as my hand that didn't have the knife gripped, was around his neck and gripping tightly so he couldn't escape. I openly admit, I dislike and am disgusted by thieving bandits or other lowlifes like that. Believe they should be thrown out of a city at a bare minimum and you can go up from there depending what they did… with a few notable exceptions! Well, to say my action silenced the idiotic bandit would be an understatement; that's for sure! This guy was already in deep trouble with me and that… was an extremely bad position to be in!

"I would advise you to choose you next words, very carefully dirt bag. They may end up being some of your last, should you choose poorly. And you'll be dealing with more than just a little owie by the time I'm through… personal guarantee!" My voice was cold but was clearly audible.

The bandit started sweating bullets, the question no doubt asking himself, would I kill him? … Depending on his actions… without any hesitate? You better believe I would! So what will this lowlife choice be?

"Oooh, talk about the evil eye…" he replied.

Going towards poor is he? Very well… I tightened my vice like grip on the back of his neck a bit and the guy stopped. I squeezed so that the dirt bag understood that this was NO joking matter! His life was on the line; so he better take this seriously or lose his life. "Don't give such dirty looks. We haven't done anything yet… But, if Nina doesn't come with me, you don't know what will happen. Ha ha ha!" the bandit got out.

Pressing the knife harder into the guy's neck to get my point and intention across to the dirt bag; if I were to press any harder than I was now, then I would be drawing blood. I squeezed tighter with my other hand so that the pressure was starting to effect his breathing slightly.

"That was a poor choice of words and this certainly isn't a laughing matter. Your life is on the line; ready to drop dead Mr. Thief?" I asked.

The bandit began to shake at my inquiry. I turned to the master of the school, "Say Master Jordi, you have any preference on the method I use to deal with this lowlife, so that I don't make a big mess for the school to have to clean up mind you?" I turned back to the bandit with a malevolent smirk on my face. The bandit began to pale as he saw my expression. "And since blood stains are so difficult to clean and so much blood drains when I either slit the throat or just cut your head off. I thought it would be nice of me to ask first. How about you, ya kidnaping dirt bag? You want your throat cut open or do you prefer that I just cut off your head? Take your pick."

I can be mean when I have reason to be; and taking a girl hostage is reason enough to me! But normally I am nice to others. Thieves and bandits are just one of the types of lowlifes I have difficulty not just out right kicking out of wherever I am or ending them… depending on the mood that I'm in at the time. Nina stepped forward an expression of anger on her face. "Where is my sister?!" she demanded.

"Oooh, ya know, you're extra-sexy when you're pissed off! Relax, your little sis Mina's safe and sound…and she'll stay that way as long as you play ball. You know what I mean?" Said the dirt bag.

Decided to remind the bandit how much trouble he was in by shaking him a bit. The dirt bag's response was to struggle against me, but I wasn't letting go with my steel vice grip I had on this dirt bag's neck! Unless I had to release this trouble maker, he isn't getting off easy! Still, I gave him a cold reminder of where he stood currently, "You should really think about the position you are in dirt bag! Or should I just start calling you a dead man walking as that's the way you're going right now?!" I commented in an emotionless voice.

The bandit began sweating more than bullets, "Call off this guy first! Get him off of me! You won't get anything until he gets off!" the thief shouted.

I glared at the bandit coldly and the expression on my face shut him up along with the feel of cold metal from the knife I still had against him. "You're in no position to demand anything dirt bag! Now answer the lady's question before your standing worsens! And by that; I mean you won't be able to stand again!" I growled.

"Kai, let him down!" Ryu barked at me.

I glanced over at Ryu and for a couple of seconds still held the guy, then let him drop to the floor. He backed away from me fast as he could. Took a moment to take a deep breath before glaring coldly at the scum that I made a little distance from me, "You're going to wish, you had never come here dirt bag. Have fun with the nightmares you'll have for the days you have remaining. None of your secrets or tricks will be able to save you should I be the one hunting you down… rest assured of that!"

The thief shivered at my remark, before turning to Nina. "Now, Nina let us take a little trip and you'll get to see your little sister."

Both the thief and Nina left through the door.

"Um, did I miss something here?" Katt had asked the question and it was the master of the school that answered the question.

"I can't believe this has happened… Those monsters are holding Nina's sister Mina hostage to get at her… They know she won't do anything to endanger her sister… Nina's hands are tied as long as they have Mina!" said Jordi obviously worried.

I glanced to the master of the school and exhaled in contained frustration, "You should have let me deal with him. The dirt bag wouldn't ever come back; probably none of his friends or comrades either."

Katt was fuming, "Oooh, those yellow-bellied cowards!"

Ryu looked to me, "That's how the Joker rolls or so I hear. Bullying, blackmail, extortion… that would fit the modus operandi I believe."

Nodding in agreement, "Yeah, that's how he does things as far as I know. Of course as the leader of a group of scummy lowlifes; I would expect him to be the lowest and dirtiest of them all." I turned to face both Ryu and Katt. "So what now? This matter doesn't exactly concern us. But should you wish to help, I wouldn't say no. I'm always up for teaching some lowlifes a lesson."

Ryu seemed to be thinking, while Katt was fuming still, "Oh it makes me so mad! I'm going to rip 'em apart and put 'em back together inside-out! You just watch me! Buncha dirty rotten Bast***!..."

Wouldn't have guessed that Katt would have it in her to want to do that… plus to know that language…! I chuckled at her declaration, "Ah, truer words aren't often spoken Katt."

The next thing I realize Katt… oh come on, not again! She had grabbed my right wrist and Ryu's left wrist and was dragging us towards the door like she had brought us into the school to begin with. "All right! C'mon, Ryu, Kai let's get moving!"

The thought, 'here we go again' comes to mind at the moment. We left town straight from the school; curtesy of Katt dragging us that way. Once we were out of town Katt stopped and let go of Ryu and I. "Okay, let's beat that creep's face in! Now which way do we go?" asked Katt.

Had to contain my snickers, Katt had dragged us off and didn't even think to ask which way to go? She is quite something else, I don't think I had this amusing a traveling companion in ages! Ryu was the one to answer her, "Mt. Rocco is to the east. Follow me."

And so, off we went, over the bridge that we crossed to and from Colossea, going along the path as if we were heading that way. However, before we reached the second bridge, we went west to the mountain range that was there and where the bandit's hideout was supposed to be. Once, we got to the base of the mountains, we began searching for the place these thieves used for a base. Within ten minutes we located a cave entrance that fit the bill.

"Joker's gang could use this cave for their hideout." Remarked Ryu.

A quick look in the mouth of the cave, showed it was dirty and dank by any standard. I nodded in agreement with Ryu as I made my vocal affirmation. "It's likely; certainly is dank and dirty enough for their lot."

"Alrighty! Let's crack some heads already!" crowed Katt.

That came from Katt and she marched forward without any further hesitation. After Ryu and I looked at each other with trepidation, we followed her inside. We hadn't gone too far into the cave when we came across the first bandit of the many that we would see here. The bandit stared at the three of us for a couple seconds as if he was having a hard time believing we were standing in front of him. Once he had regained his composure, he glared at us. "Joker demands your fear, your respect, and your sorry ass off of his doorstep in five seconds. Now scram!" said the doorman.

That's rather demanding of 'Joker'; all he should expect from us is an escort to a cell! "Is that all? … Well he isn't getting any of that dirt bag!" I replied, drawing the short blade on the back of my hips.

The 'doorman' didn't take that well, a scuffle commenced, which the bandit lost to us when he took a blow to the back of the head from me. However, was there a reason to doubt that result?

"Ha! He wasn't so tough." Remarked Katt.

Katt is as confident as I have come to expect, "There's probably more where he came from, though. Lots more." Commented Ryu.

And the growing wisdom of my little brother. I guess I need to get our group back on track and on the job at hand. "Yeah, I will have to go with you Ryu. We're just getting started clearing this place." I said.

We made our way through the system of caves that these lowlifes had made into a base of operation. There was resistance from some of the bandits along the way, but the farther in the three of us went, the more of them that ran from us. Once our group reached the 'bottom floor' of this place, we spotted the majority of the bandits gathered around the Windian from before at the magic school.

"Hey! Something's going on down there!" said Katt.

Quickly, Ryu and I covered her mouth to keep her quiet and not give away out position. Katt was all for going down there right away and getting into a fight with the dirt bags. Not that I didn't see an interest in what Katt was suggesting, but as long as that Windian is down there, we have to think things through first. Because, by what I was picking up from what was being said down there, sounds like the lady is being coheres, or in simple terms, blackmailed. I got that impression while Ryu was trying to calm down Katt and prevent her from making an unwise choice.

"Well, looks like Joker's goons haven't done anything to her yet." Said Ryu

Keyword, 'yet'… Think things would go more smoothly if I go solo on this for a bit. Slipped away and moved ahead to see if I could spot the hostage Princess Mina of Windia. My skills in stealth and covert movements are top notch, help in ways that most wouldn't believe! On my way of skirting around the cavern I was in currently, spotted a figure along the path that I was using. They were cover and dressed in black. I got closer drawing my short blade as I closed on to the figure as they could very well be one of the bandits. I was about to pin and identify whoever this was, when there was a dim flash, affecting my sight for a moment. In that brief moment of time, the figure disappeared from in front of me. Heard movement of something moving passed me and I ducked as someone tried to grab me from behind. I thrust my short blade up to where the presences that was attempting to ceasing me was. My blade met a longer and slightly thicker sword. I glanced up to whoever I was crossing blades with.

It was a man; he stood at about six feet, which was taller than me. The guy had a heavy build, definitely obtained by an active job, likely a soldier or something similar. His chin had white hair completely and the facial hair went up along his jawline. I could tell this guy was wearing full plate armor under the black cloak, so my current sword wouldn't be very helpful other than for blocking. My opponent's sword was a claymore type blade and was in the hand of a strong experienced wielder which trumps my weapon. This could get very messy, very quickly!

"You're no stranger to fighting" said a male voice.

I felt a little shock at hearing the voice; for it was one I knew. I pulled back and stood up straight looking at the man. "Baroque? … is that you?" I questioned.

"… Kai? Kai Bateson?" the man asked.

I nodded, "What are you doing here Baroque? You would be the last one I would have thought to see in a place like this." I asked.

The sound of the voices of the bandits laughing got my mind back to the problem at hand. I glanced back at Baroque. "Baroque, I think we'll have to catch up with each other later. There is another matter that needs attention right now and it would be prudent for us to work together in this; would you not agree." I said.

My friend nodded in reply. The two of us moved forward around the cavern to get closer to where the stage was and likely the one being used to get the Windian… Nina I think her name was, to cooperate.

"I order you to release my sister! Let Mina go immediately!"

That was Nina's voice and it served as motivation to hurry!

"Heh heh heh! So, you really are sexy when you're angry! Why don't you come a little closer and show me just how sexy you can be…" said a male voice that stood out from the others so far.

Both I and Baroque moved down a pathway that led to an edge and we stopped at the ledge to see and hear what was going on. I saw a fat man who I assumed was 'Joker'. This was the first time I have seen the guy if he really is Joker. There was never a description given in the reports of what the man actually looked like, which was the reason that finding him was harder. Nina was a short distance in front of him and looking very angry. I glanced to Baroque and observed a pained expression on his face for a moment. Had thought about asking what was irking him so as Baroque is solid as a rock most of the time in situations like this as long as I've known him. So this wasn't normal for him and I was kind of worried about him, but I turned back reminding myself to ask about that later and keep focused on the task at hand.

"…You're disgusting. I won't ask you again: free Mina now!" growled Nina.

Nina didn't sound like she was going to be nice after this. Not that I blamed her in the slightest, her 'sister' was in danger being in the hands of these dirt bags. At Nina's shout, one of the stupid bandits came forward out of the group of them. "Hey, lady! Watch who you diss! Remember who'd holdin' all the cards here! Next time you open your sweet little mouth; you know whose fine ass we'll take it out of…" He started saying.

I could feel the increase of magic energy coming from Baroque. The last time I remember my friend doing that… didn't end pretty for the enemy we had been fighting… and that's putting it nicely! O dear Landon, this situation was getting very volatile! The dirt bag who had just opened his mouth, kicked Nina up the stairs closer to their boss. Nina spun around, "Don't you touch her!" she shouted.

There was an orange light from the blaze that had appeared out of nowhere, "AaAaAaAaAh!"

And the idiot that opened his mouth is promptly roasted by Nina for his stupidity. One should take this as a lesson; pissing off a girl who can use magic is a really dumb idea. Nina turned back to Joker. "You've tried my patience for the last time! Let Mina go this instant, or I'll show all of you once and for all that 'hell hath no fury'!" Shot Nina.

… 'Like a woman's scorn' and it is true! I want to say 'you go girl'; but that would give away our position and that wouldn't be wise right now. Patience is needed in this so that the princess of Windia doesn't get hurt by accident or in a threat.

"Heh heh heh! A real spitfire, aintcha? All right then. I'll let you see your little Mina. Bring 'er in, boys! Heh heh heh heh!"

So, that voice that had been different before was the voice of Joker, still wasn't pretty in the slightest! It was then from slightly below and ahead of Baroque and I; another dirt bag brought out a blue haired girl that had wings… I would guess that's Princess Mina, fits her description.

"Nina!" said 'Mina'.

I don't think we'll be able to watch much longer; I was having a hard time holding myself where I was. Then there was my friend next to me and with the fury that Baroque is containing… it won't be long before magic starts flying and Baroque was SKILLED with magic… can take me on and hold his own! He hasn't been this way since the Goonheim war and that was kind of scary.

"Mina! Don't worry, this will all be over soon!" said Nina.

Joker laughed after Nina had spoken, "Heh heh heh! Well, ain't this a touching scene? But I gotta tell ya, lady, you shouldn't be making promises you know you ain't gonna keep…"

Okay granted, it was a given that Joker himself would be a lowlife scum, but this is low for dirt bags and scum. I really had it with this scumbag Joker!

"I've done as you've said thus far. Now let her go!" demanded Nina.

Now, if Joker is the villain I suspect he is…

"Not yet. You haven't held up your end of the bargain yet. Now, repeat after me…'I pledge my body and soul to Joker, and offer myself as his loyal servant to secure the freedom of my beloved sister!' And when you're done, I'll let you lick my boots!" replied Joker.

…Yes indeed; he is the scumbag and villain I thought he was from what I have heard about him! I tapped Baroque on the shoulder and when I had his attention, I pointed down to the place below that happened to have a nook on either side that we could hide in. It was a signal that we get on either side of the end of the narrow passage that the thugs had brought her down. When they came by again, we could take them by surprise! Baroque nodded and so we slipped down to where I had pointed and concealed ourselves, and then waited.

"Hm? What's wrong, Nina? Do you wanna do things the hard way? Even if you've got second thoughts above saving your sis, my boys are ready and able to squeeze the words outta ya!" came the voice of Joker.

Oh that dirty… You'll so suffer before you die Joker! I promise that!

"Bring her over here, boys! Make her kneel before her new owner! Heh heh heh! One more time, with feeling! 'I pledge my body and soul to Joker…" the king of the band of thieves continued.

I swear Joker will pay! It was then I heard scuffling. I glanced to Baroque who was silent; readying for the one coming our way. The thug looking very smug came past us; didn't look around and so didn't notice us until it was too late for him! I quietly came from behind and grabbed the dirt bag's neck in a steel grip with one hand and covered his mouth with the other so that he couldn't make a sound. The second I squeeze his neck in my steel vice grip; the guy let go of the young Windia princess. The moment the thug let go, Baroque caught the princess who was confused and scared; but after something that Baroque did or said, she went silent and was cooperative.

The dirt bag I had in my grasp had attempted to struggle, but it was fruitless as he couldn't escape my hold. When I looked down, I saw to my surprise that it was the same one I had threatened at the magic school. What an interesting twist of fate for him. I smiled evilly and whispered to the thief, "Well, well look at what we have here. Looks like fate isn't going to be kind to you, dirt bag! I told you that you would wish we had not and would not cross paths again. Yet, here we are scumbag… quite the unfortunate twist of fate indeed."

I, without hesitation grabbed the throwing knife I had used before with my free hand and brought it up to his lower neck. I heard a swooshing sound and assumed Baroque had turned so that the princess wouldn't see what I was about to do. Baroque is one of those who you can say defends the innocent and tries to prevent harm of any kind to them and I respect him for doing so. That's why he would turn and shield the Windian princess from seeing this. I wasn't going to be nice this time and there wasn't another to stop me this time from carrying out the deed!

"Shall we pick up where we left off before? Now, there isn't anyone to save you from paying for the crimes you are guilt of. Fair thee well and make your peace." I stated with finality.

After I had said that, I pushed the guy's head forward and I pulled the knife back and let go of the thug, letting him drop to the floor. I took in the growing pool of blood that was draining from the gash I made at his throat. I don't enjoy killing; it sickens me, but I do think that some do things that deserve such a punishment. This is one of those instances and so, I delivered. I heard footsteps coming from the stairway to the level above Baroque and I. Spinning around with my knife in hand and the other hand on the hilt of my great blade; I found myself staring at… Ryu and Katt?! They looked at me and I relaxed and waved them forward. Ryu came up to me and whispered, "Kai, what are you doing and where have you been? You just disappeared!"

"I was cleaning up and happened to bump into a friend of mine." I answered my brother.

I gestured at Baroque as I said this.

"Quit stalling and give me your vow! You're only hurting your sister…" said Joker.

Oh crap! I almost forgot about that part!

"If it's for Mina…then I have no choice…" Said Nina hesitantly.

Our whole group rushed forward. The princess still had Baroque right behind her. My brother was the first to get words out, "Nina, stop!"

"Yee-haw! Never fear, Nina! The cavalry has arrived!" shouted Katt.

I see, the first time at the magic school wasn't a fluke. Katt has this 'hero line' thing going for us now. "You've lost your bargaining chip, Joker. Give it up." Said Ryu.

Now that's better little brother; back to business! However, let's not forget what this scumbag has coming to him! "Give yourself up scumbag, then you might live to see another day." I stated.

Joker just stared at us and then got ticked, "Who the hell are these clowns? Don't just stand there! Kill 'em!"

The remaining thugs rushed at us. I drew my great blade which got the said thugs to slow down their approach at the sight of my blade. Ryu took down one of the dirt bags and Katt took down another. I wasn't trying to make the two look bad or anything… I just have a hard time doing things that involve fighting small. I stepped forward and brought my blade to a horizontal position and made a sweeping slice and the other two thugs fell in pieces. Caught sight of Baroque sheathing he sword and two bandits on the ground, clothes turning red. Our group advanced towards Joker.

"Now that's what I call a clean sweep! You ready to give up now?" said Katt.

Ryu was the next to get a word in. "We've already trashed the better part of your entire gang, Joker. I recommend you give up. I'm sure we can find room for you in Newhaven's jail."

"P-p-please! Don't hurt me! I'm just a humble outlaw."

Humble… outlaw? That's a load of crap if I've ever heard any! I couldn't help the sigh that came out from myself followed by my comment. "Why do all scumbags snivel and beg for their lives in the end, instead of accepting their dues they have collected?" I remark to the cavern at large.

"Because the majority of villains are cowards at heart. It is why they turned to their dishonorable ways." Baroque replied.

It was around that time that the temperature of the immediate area noticeably rose. All of us turned to the source of the change to see a very angry Nina that if I'm not mistaken is charging up what will likely be a doozy of a fire spell! I jerked back a little, Ryu looked scared and I would say for good reason! Katt was looking at the Windian with a mix of awe and apprehension. As the energy that Nina was gathering to cast the spell grew; it was clear that the spell that would come would be big! It became plain that where we were, wasn't going to be safe much longer! Baroque grabbed Princess Mina and started sprinting back up towards the pathway we had come out of… actually, that sounds like a very good idea right now! I grabbed Ryu and Katt as I started sprinting toward that pathway; Baroque was a little ahead of me.

"Kai what are you doing?!" Ryu shouted that at me.

I didn't look at him as I felt the heat increasing faster than before, but I still answered my little brother, "I'm saving both your rears along with mine from getting roasted! You can thank me afterwards!"

I dove for behind the stone wall pulling Ryu and Katt with me. Not more than five seconds later there was a boom followed by what looked like a stream of flames that we saw going past the pathway's mouth. We all heard the scream of Joker as Nina roasted him… hell she incinerated him more likely! After thirty seconds of this, the flames died down and the waves of fire disappeared too. The lot of us looked at one another as if to ask who would risk sticking out their head first. Decided to take one for the team and so, went to the mouth of the pathway and slowly stuck my head out slowly to see the results of Nina's fury.

I spotted Nina standing where she had been before and breathing hard. A lot of the stone around Nina was either black because assumedly the stone didn't heat up with the fire it had been submerged by. There were the other rocks that were red from being roasting for a little bit. Indeed, it can be said, Baroque and I made a sound and wise decision on taking cover in the stone pathway! We are still both alive and unroasted as is everyone else!

"Hey Nina… you done with Joker?" I ask loudly enough for young Windian to hear me.

Nina turned to see my head and a little beyond poking out from the pathway. "What are you doing all the way over there?"

Gestured to the area around her, "Keeping myself and the rest of us from getting roasted like the rocks did and the scumbag you made well done. You can cast a mean fire spell girl, I'll give you that!"

Nina blushed a bit and I signaled it was safe to the others. We came out and walked over to Nina. Ryu took a glance at where Joker had been to see there was just red rubble.

"… Or there's that way of taking care of him too, I guess. Jail's probably too good for him anyway" said Ryu.

I glanced in the directions that Ryu was looking and added my piece. "Better than he deserved if you ask me with the crimes he committed."

Nina then spoke up to all of us, "… Thank you for saving us from Joker and his men. You have my eternal gratitude."

Looked back at the results of what she had just done and then back to her, "Little lady; we may have taken out some of Joker's men, but you did him in all on your own."

Ryu nodded in agreement, "That's fine – honestly, this guy has been troubling our Guild for a long while. It's good to know he won't be doing so anymore."

I smiled and replied, "Right you are Ryu! Finally, the Guild can get to more important jobs than that scumbag!"

"No prob, ma'am! All in a day's work for ace detectives like us!" stated Katt.

… Again, why does Katt do those hero line? They sound stupid when they are heard.

"…We're detectives now?" asked Ryu after leaning towards me.

Shrugged my shoulders at Ryu's question and gave him a deadpanned look, "Better not to ask Ryu, I would think."

A rumbling began seconds after I had finished my statement.

"Wh-what is this?" posed Nina and that's a question we'd all like to know!

"The ground's shaking!"

That's plainly obvious Katt! Then from behind us came a dark yet familiar voice, "Y…you Bast***s! That hurt!"

That son of a… He's still living?! With the flames that had been used, I thought Nina thoroughly Barbecued the scum! The pile of boulders shattered into fragments and there appeared… some kind of long tongued monster. The energy I was getting off this 'thing' was… demonic like mutt mutt had! Another one?! I don't like this…

"Heh Heh…ha ha ha ha ha! Kneel before your new owner, Nina! Kneel before me and die!" cried Joker.

All in our group with the exception of Princess Mina and Nina, brought weapons out and to the ready, Nina just took up a fighting stance. The demon that had once been Joker, rushed forward at us. Katt was the first to meet the monster, but she was unable to stop his advance. Next was Ryu and along with Katt was able to able to bring his momentum to a halt. While the two had him there, Baroque and I shot forward and struck on either side. A pained roar, said that we had done two solid hits to him. Yet, what made it even better, was the thunder that followed the two hits; thunder that obviously came from Nina. Within a few minutes Joker had lost to us and had fallen to ground. He was in disbelief that he had lost and was voicing it, "H-how?... Have I been…forsaken by our God…? No…it can't be…I…"

'Our God…' That's like… no, that's just chance he said that. Joker let out his last breath and died after the line. I looked the monster over to make sure that it was dead, and once satisfied I looked to the others, "Well, it's dead, good riddance I say." I remarked.

"Nina!" Princess Mina had cried out and had ran over to Nina and hugged her.

Nina returned the gesture and smiled a bit, before she replied, "Mina, what were you thinking? You know you're not supposed to leave the palace!"

A tad harsh, to tell the girl that came to see you that she shouldn't have come. The Princess began to apologize to Nina, "I…I'm sorry. I just… wanted to see you…"

"Well, it should be fine as neither of you were hurt in the end" Ah, ever a voice of reason Baroque still is; It's the way I've always known to me.

And Baroque was right, no harm no foul. Nina though, stared at Baroque for a moment, but then nodded, "…Thank you all I don't know what I would have done if something had happened to Mina…I must return her to the palace. Everyone must be worried about her by now."

Ryu just nodded, I shrugged, Baroque simply smiled. Katt however…

"Hey, hold it! How about you come with us, huh? We can travel together. You know what they say, 'the more, the merrier!' Right, Ryu, Kai?" asked Katt.

I beg your pardon! When did it fall to one that wasn't the leader of our travel group to decide who is invited?! Ryu, apparently didn't have a problem, "That sounds like a good idea. It'd be prudent to make sure the princess returns to Windia safely, and I can inquire about the thief whilst I'm there."

Little Brother… why are you doing this? Yet, surprisingly, both my traveling companions turned to me for a final word in the decision. I sighed before I spoke, "Oh, now you want my opinion… meh, why not. It would be nice to have someone else along that's not so 'charge ahead' all the time."

Nina was surprised by the offer that had just been extended, "A-all right… that's fine! There's safety in numbers, after all…How can I ever repay you for all this?" she said.

I was about to answer, but… I was beaten to it, "No charge, Ma'am! Just doing our duty! But next time, I'd like a few magic lessons! You sling spells like a real pro!" returned Katt.

A one track mind Katt has. There will be a day when that gets taken the wrong way. Nina looked at Katt and studied her for a minute, "Well, you do seem to have the potential…I suppose we'll have to see." Replied Nina.

How nice of her to say that, true still how nice of her. Nina turned to Mina, "Let's get you home, Mina."

We began out trek towards the surface once things had been settled. On our way Nina looked around… I think looking for bandits. There wouldn't be any as we had cleared them out on the way down. "The entire cave is empty…" commented Nina.

"Looks like the gang cleared out after seeing Joker turn into a monster. Can't really blame them. Without him to lead them I doubt they'll be a threat." Remarked Ryu.

So again, like I was mentioning, we cleared out the pests. When we finally got out of the cave, I breathed in fresh air and was grateful for it! As much for the fresh air as the sunlight that we had been denied down in the bandit's lair.

"Okay! Let's get going to Windia! Uh…wherever it is!" Katt asked the question to the group at large.

Nina was the one to answer, "It lies north and then west of Colossea."

Yes, indeed it does. And so, we all headed off towards Windia. After a few hours, Katt spoke up, "*Sigh* Are we there yet?"

Did she really just ask that dumb question, "I expect that dumb comment from Bow… this is getting to be some kind of slow torture." I grumbled at hearing that.

Nina smiled kindly at the rest of us, "Almost. If we go around the lake and then head west, we can enter the castle through a secret entrance."

I glanced over at Baroque, he had said to me once that he wouldn't go to Windia for the time being… some kind of circumstances that he didn't talk about came up. By his silence, I assumed he was going to leave soon enough. Baroque looked to me and I could see he was thinking about parting ways. I nodded to him to do so while the other didn't notice and I wouldn't make any mention of it, respecting my friend's choice. After the exchange, Baroque silently slipped away. The man that was my friend had always been able to seemingly appear and disappear at his leisure.

Not too long after Baroque vanished, we finally reached the large lake to the west and slightly north of Colossea, known as Volqua lake. It took a few hours to skirt around and we came to the bridge that would lead to Windia. Going through the passage that was below the castle of Windia was fairly uneventful… except for some of those that had been put down here, raving about black wings and the downfall of Windia. Was somewhat unsettling to be honest; I mean, I've met King Kenny and he's a great king and a good Windian. So, hard to imagine him putting people down here to simply silence them.

When we got out of the passage, we were instantly surrounded by Windian guards, with them pointing their spears at us. Glancing around for a moment, I realized that we were in the… Windian Castle garden… oh, this doesn't look good.

"Mother!" cried Princess Mina.

Looking in the direction her voice came from, I saw Queen Hina. However, one of the soldiers spoke up, or rather shouted, "Halt! Identify yourselves immediately!"

A quick glance at Ryu and Katt told me that they didn't know how to answer for the Windian soldiers who were pointing spears at us. I admit, I've been to Windia and even into the castle on some of the jobs I've done, King Kenny has been a client of mine once, nice guy. So, I recognize where our group is, but I don't really know what to do in this situation. Perhaps Queen Hina could help diffuse this tense feel in this room. "Princess Mina of Windia and her entourage, sir guard." Answered princess Mina.

The young princess gestured to us when she said 'entourage', though she did smile so I believe she was trying to be nice and assist. Princess Mina continued speaking, "You have my sister to thank for my safe return."

The Windian princess believes that… Nina is her sister? I suppose there is some resemblance between her and the king and queen, but that would beg the question, what would she be doing in New Heaven? There has to be more to this, "Sister?" questioned Queen Hina, before she glanced at the three of us, then she shook her head, "Mina, that's enough nonsense from you. You have no sister."

Princess Mina looked at her mother in shock, "M-mother?"

I cleared my throat to get everyone's attention onto me, "Excuse me Queen Hina, if I could speak." I said.

The Windian royal looked at me and after a moment her face lit up, "Ah, Ranger Bateson, it's nice to see you again. It's been three years since you helped fix a problem for us. What brings you here at this time?" she said nicely.

Ah, this is one of those times that having clients being unable to forget me is very handy. Moving forward and bowing to the Windian Queen, I quickly got into the tale of what had happened to princess Mina. Telling her about how Mina had been kidnapped by the bandits that had been at the command of Joker. Of course, we had saved the princess from being hurt, yet I left out Baroque's involvement. After we had helped princess Mina, we of course, brought her back to Windia and so we found ourselves coming through the passageway and into the Windian Castle. Queen Hina was nodding after I finished telling her about what had brought us to be where we were, "I see, well you have my thanks for your actions."

The queen looked at one of the soldiers, "Captain Saious, would you please escort this group to the entrance of the castle as a way to show our thanks for bringing back Mina safely?" Asked Queen Hina.

"Yes, your highness." Said the soldier that Queen Hina had spoken to.

The spears were raised from pointed at us and the 'captain' of the guards led us towards the front of the castle. All the while as we had been led out, Princess Mina was in destress and was complaining about what was happening. Once we were escorted out of the castle, the guard captain had the curtesy to bow and thank us for bringing the Princess back, then they closed the doors to the castle. The four of us began discussing what to do and where to go on from here. We brought Nina up to speed upon our search for the 'winged thief', which had framed Bow for a crime that the dog, troublesome as he can be, didn't do. Best course of action at this point, would be to continue west from Windia and try to pick up the trail of our prey along the way. Ryu agreed with my view on what we should do going forward, Katt just wanted to set off and Nina would go with whatever we decided.

Sooo… our group went down the steps from the castle in hopes and intent to leave the city. … Didn't make it very far before we came upon a crowd gathered around a clear area… probably some type of square. Ryu and I made our way to the front of the crowd to see what was going on to see that a monkey was putting on a show… no, not a monkey, a Highlander.

"Come one, come all and be amazed by magic the likes of which this land has never seen before." Said the Highlander with gusto.

Ryu and I watched for a bit, most of what I saw was sleight of hand and smoke. Next thing I realize, both Nina and Katt were besides Ryu and myself watching the Highlander along with the crowd of Windians that were gathered. When the male Highlander got set up for his next 'trick', he then called for a volunteer from the crowd… and who would be picked other than my little brother Ryu. The thing was, the expression that the monkey had, said that his intentions were far from the wish to entertain. I would say he's wanting to impress some… likely females in the crowd… oh boy.

Ryu was shoved into a box with some odd symbols on it… which I swear I've seen before somewhere, just can't place where I have. Once my brother was in the box, the Highlander did a dance of some sort and the was smoke that came out of the box and it collapsed flat and Ryu was nowhere to be seen. The crowd began to dissipate after the trick was done, yet Ryu didn't reappear in the square. Well, first I need to find my little brother, then I can shake up the Highlander and learn what he was after and planning. Both Katt and Nina were accosting the Highlander, the monkey was, by what my ears were getting, was asking for a date… As a price to help Ryu.

For some reason, as is becoming normal lately, I was ignored as I strolled forward to where the box Ryu and been put in was now in its flat form still laying on the ground. Picked up the 'box' and found it to be flimsy and unlikely to be of any real use at this time, so I chucked it aside. Squatted down and began to feel and inspect the dirt closely, finding the earth under where the box had been to be very soft. You know… Now that I think about this, I've seen something similar to this 'trick', though it wasn't a trick per say, more a trap as I recall. Back during the Goonheim War, Highlanders came up with a few ingenious ideas to help in the effort at dealing with monsters and demons, this reminded me of one of the methods. The general idea, was to pretty much trap the target by using a bit of magic to send them straight down into the dirt, making it difficult for the trapped one to move or dig their way out before they were found by the trappers. Worked very well for the weaker monsters and beast that were found during the war that were 'scouts' of a sort. This magic trick appeared to use the same process, so I plunged my right arm into the dirt, stirring it up while I searched for something that was connected to my brother. After half a minute, caught what felt like a hand, clenched down and felt the pressure back. I gave a great heave upward and out of the earth came Ryu's head and some of his neck along with one arm. Pulled some more until my brother got his other arm out and then grabbed his other arm and yanked him the rest of him out of the ground.

As Ryu was dusting himself off from the extra dirt, I went over and ceased the Highlander and hauled him up into the air, "Okay you, what were you trying to pull with this little magic show of yours?" I demanded.

"Please, accept my deepest, undying apologies!" The highlander nearly shouted at me.

I snorted, "If your apologizing, then start with your name Highlander." I answered.

Still held the monkey as he was answered me, "Sten is the name and I'm normally not so inconsiderate… but you got to understand, when I see a pretty face, my sense of fair play goes out the window."

The following explanation from the Highlander Sten, painted him as a flirt and he does so frequently. I know a couple of Highlanders, a lot of them I met during the Goonheim War, good people; this Highlander didn't help the fairly decent reputation that Highland mercenaries have earned over the years. The odd thing was, I could tell he wasn't lying about what he was saying. With flirts, most that I have come across during my travels, aren't as open as this Sten is showing himself to be. … Makes me wonder if we should trust this Highlander, or throw him on his butt. It was a feminine voice that brought all of our attentions back to the topic at hand, "…Meh, at least you're honest. Ryu's alright, so I guess I won't break anything this time." said Katt.

Okay… I guess that the female Woren is right, but still, I'm not so sure about this Highlander. Sighed before I released the monkey and he landed on the ground and began to jump up and down with excitement. "Oh, thank you, thank you! I knew I still had good taste in women!" cried Sten.

I'm worry about this one… worry a lot about him and made my opinion known, "Sssure, if you say so… moving on then, we still have a certain winged thief to track down, don't we Ryu?" I said trying to bring the conversation back onto the task our group was attempting to do.

Ryu nodded at my statement, "Yes, there isn't the time to deal with these kind of antics right now. We need to continue the hunt for the thief so that we can clear Bow's name." he said.

With that said, our band of four resumed making our way towards the entrance of town so that we could continue our journey to find the thief. Didn't get all that far when we were stopped, "Hey, hold on a second!"

We all turned to see that Sten had been the one to being us to a halt, which when we had stopped, Sten kept speaking, "Please, allow me to lend you my services in reparation for my heinous act!"

I stared at the highlander with incredulity, "I beg your pardon! Why would we let someone like you travel with us… and what kind of services could you offer us?" I demanded.

"I can do all sorts of things, not just simple magic tricks. Give me a chance." Answered Sten quickly.

His answer was a tad too fast for my liking or to change my initial judgement of this monkey, made it slightly worse for his standing. The interesting thing, the girls' reactions; Nina was backing up slightly from Sten, and Katt was looking kind of insulted. "Say what? This better not be your idea of getting close to us so you can catch us in the bath or something!" piped up Katt.

Sten flinched a bit, before he regained his composure, "Perish the thought! I am but your humble servant, my lady!" he said.

Kept watching the Highlander for another moment, then I leaned over to Ryu and began to whisper to him. "Do you get the impression that he intends to do things that he says he won't, or is it just me getting this feeling?" I muttered to Ryu.

Granted, my little brother can be a bit dim and ignorant at times… but he ain't no idiot, even if he spends time around one that I know. Ryu shook his head, "It's not just you Kai…" replied Ryu.

Good, so I'm not paranoid like some might think I am sometimes; both Ryu and I kept watching the scene that was happening between the two females and the Highlander. "Q-quit that! You're creeping me out! Ryu, Kai, can I hit him again?" Katt asked us, her staff close to Sten's head.

I was half a mind to say yes and let Katt give him a whack with her staff. Have seen the former fighter wield that staff of hers and let me tell you, looks and sounds painful! "Look at this face! Does this look like a face that would lie to you?" said Sten pointing to his own face.

Cleared my throat, "I believe you already have… more than once if I'm not mistaken." I commented to the group at large.

Ryu sighed tiredly, "Can we just settle this please?" He asked.

Sten waved his long arms around, "Okay, okay. Look, I promise I won't do anything bad like that again. Please, let me help you out." Plead the Highlander.

As the leader of our band, Ryu mulled over the request, "Well…I suppose an extra pair of eyes would be useful. You can put your staff away, Katt." He said.

After a few seconds passed, Katt withdrew her staff, "… Fine, fine. But I'll kick your rear if you drool on anything!" shot Katt to Sten.

An amusing thought came to mind after listening to Katt's threat, "And I get to be the one that discipline him if he does something that's just stupid." I said with a little excitement in my voice.

Sten smiled broadly, "Oho, you won't regret this!" he said.

So now, our merry band of four, becomes a party of five… don't know if this will turn out to be a good thing or not. However, Sten came with us, which means we'll see how things will end out now that we are back on the trail to find the winged thief.

Chapter end

A/n

And that's chapter 3. For those who like this story, glad you like it. Understand that I'm working on White Dragon Chronicles right now, and my high school Dxd on the side. That makes this less of a priority in my mind, though I still like this story. Until the next chapter I post!