My Fair Lady

[Allan A'Dayle]

Allan A'Dayle

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------The life of an outlaw was highly underrated. Allan had been craving adventure the moment he stepped out of Willowsdale and he often found it, yet at a high expense. It usually entailed a lot of running from authority figures or angry people. But this time, everything was different. Ever since meeting Robin that fateful day in the church, under the most bizarre of circumstances, Allan had joined him and his purpose. Whatever that may be. Either way, he was loving every day of this. Adventures were more fun when you had someone to share them with. So for now, he was wandering through the Sherwood Forest which had become his home. He was dressed in his layered attire, with his cittern strapped across him, the strap over his chest at a diagonal and the instrument itself on his back.

------He never carried a sword, but had his handy slingshot in his pocket if ever there should be a need for it. It was truly a beautiful day! The sun was shining and Allan was already quietly humming a tune to himself as he could have sworn there was a little skip every few steps he took. It was not rare for him to be in a good mood for he was truly one who enjoyed almost every aspect of life. As he pressed on his aimless wander, he suddenly froze. In the distance he saw something that made this day all the more beautiful. This time, it had nothing to do with the shining sun, nor the clear blue sky. But rather, the nature of which God created women. For up ahead, there was the most bewitching woman. Even from this distance he could tell how ravishing she was. A smile formed on his lips as he just watched her for a few moments. He may not know her but the way she carried herself indicated that she was above the status of a peasant.

------Perhaps even as far as a noble! Now wouldn't that be something. The last time Allan had such a private conversation with a noblewoman... well, it had not ended well. He learned only one lesson from that experience: never bed a woman in her own chamber for you never know who could show up. Perhaps it was not at all a good thing he did not learn from it. But he would forever remain an opportunist. And right now, he saw an opportune moment for she was alone and she was exquisitely beautiful, and that was all the reason he needed to approach her. Knowing that he was clad in less than extravagant clothing, he could not pose as a knight, unlike last time. So he would have to focus on his other strength, apart from impersonation: music. Finally stepping closer towards her, he made sure not to sneak up on her.

------No woman liked to feel like they were being watched or stalked, and Allan was not going to get off to such a terrible start. "My dear Lady, please forgive the disturbance," he began to say as he held out his hands and lowered the upper half of his body in a dramatic bow. He had his instrument and the proper attire: he could pretend that his sole identity was as a minstrel. And leave out that small detail of being an outlaw. He raised himself once more to make her eye level. "But to possess the privilege to lay eyes upon such beauty and simply pass by would be a sin. For you 'ave posed as such an inspiration to me." Ah yes. The role of a minstrel. Every woman loved a good song, did they not? Furthermore, did they not like to hear such praise? Maybe she would be different, but maybe she would not. Either way, Allan stood there, awaiting her reaction to know where to go from here.

Tag Ari?nna

[ella]

It could not have been later then mid day. The sun was high in the sky, letting off a burning heat. A thick humid kind of heat. Though that was only felt in the sun. Sitting or walking in the shade, felt nice when a cool breeze hit. Off in the distance Ariánna dressed in the most beautiful bright blue dress, a newly made one, walked from her home with a rather large bag in tow. Today was a very busy day for her, she had quite a lot of crap to do. She had to get more cloth for another dress she was making, help her mother, and make sure the sheriff was happy. She even had a dumb basket full of dumb treats to give him....oh how he hated him. Of course the opposite was believed. Most figured she loved the sheriff very much... almost like a father. But she hated him greatly.

Her chores were done in record time, which meant she could have a little visit with her brother. She had known where he was, he was not that hard time fine. So she set off for him at once. Her bright blue dress, drew way too much attention, plus her dress was pretty low cut, she had to make the sheriff happy after all. It was sad but it worked. As long as he though she loved him like a father everything would be just fine. So before she got to close to the forest she slipped behind a business, she was hidden pretty well. She looked and made sure she was not only alone but out of eye level. No one should be able to see her. She waited there there for a moment before she began digging in her bag. There she found a large cloak, another one of her creations. It was a green cloak, one that would help her in blending in. It had different colors of green on it, and had a very large hood, one that would cover her face and neck completely. Ari?nna's hair had been down, in soft curls. She pulled it back tieing a bow to keep it in place, off her neck. She figured she'd get cold in the forest, but she was pretty hot at the moment.

Pulling out her cross bow she armed herself, her cloak hiding everything, dress included. Which she tied up to keep it off the ground. She was showing her ankles but she could not get dirt on it or people would ask questions. So this was the only way. Call her a whore or not, it did not matter, as long as she got to see her brother she was happy. Pulling the hood over she took off, adjusting an extra piece of fabric as she went, to cover most of her face, her eyes were the only thing left un covered.

She ran for the forest, deeper and deeper she went, faster and faster she ran. she was not sure how much time she might have with her brother. She could no come home that late. Her thoughts were not paying attention to where she was going, so naturally she had to fall. With a heavy thud she landed, only catching herself at the last moment before she fell over completly. With an angry sigh she stood up brushing depre from her cloak. She did not what to track to much dirt in or questions would be asked.

She mistakenly pulled back her hood, taking off the extra fabric as she went, so she could see where she was going better. She was still working out the kinks in her outfit. Clearly this was not going to work well. She pulled the bow from her hair, shaking her head softly her hair fell down landing over her shoulders in her natural rigletts. The tie that held her hair was now being tied to her pretty blue dress, it had ripped in her fall. Irritated, as she was, she wanted to make sure it held well for her trip back. It would be dark on her way back so she needed to be sure it would hold. Taking a seat on a rock she began to work on the rip in her dress.

Her deep blue eyes looking only ahead at her goal, paying little attention to the things, or people around her. She just wanted to finish mending her dress and be on her way. Simple as that. But of coruse the dress she wore was not one for travel. She should have changed. This was more a dress she made to get the sheriff to...like her more. A little more skin showed then she would have like'd her ankles too.. But she was not expecting company. Not that she cared what others though of her. She could kick their ass regardless of reputation.

Her hands worked quickly, but not quick enough...for a man announced his presence. She could not help but look to see who was bothering her. His words held no meaning to her. She had been called beautiful before, but now was not the time. She was busy. She smiled sweetly up at him. He was being nice.. she needed to be nice. In a rush or not, he did nothing to deserve her being rude. "That is very kind of you sir." She said bringing her blue dress back to it's normal length. She should not have such things show in his presence. She'd pull them up later if need be. She did not want him getting the wrong idea or anything. It would be a shame to have to injure him with her bow.

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[Allan A'Dayle]

Allan A'Dayle

------What? That's all he got? A simple That is very kind of you Sir?! Well this was not going to do at all. Then again, he should not be surprised. He was well aware that she was of a higher status than he, so perhaps that was why she would pay him no need. For he was beneath her station and therefore, unworthy of her attention? That, and it certainly could have something to do with the fact that she was fiddling with her dress right now. But Allan was persistent if anything. He could not let such a delicacy simply walk away without at least trying to gain her favor. He decided to soften his accent a bit, for he could lie about his own standing. He could say he was a minstrel, who played in court! That would be perfect! Though still of lower class, he would at least have some association to the nobility of England. It was a start if nothing else.

------He continued to smile, absolutely taken by her charming and alluring smile, which only encouraged him further. "No my dear Lady. It is you who are being kind to me; for allowing me to stand here, and praise your beauty and grace." He tried to give her the most charming smile he could. With women of higher rank, it was always a bit more difficult to woo them. They had higher standards, higher expectations. Meeting a woman in a tavern or just on the street was often flattered just by kind words. Especially in a tavern. Since a lot of the men there spoke crudely and with great vulgarity. But nobles, now they were a challenge. Ones that were worth every bit of effort. Especially this on in front of him. "As there is no greater honor that can be bestowed on me," he continued on.

------Contrary to popular belief of those who may know him, he was not stupid. He was not naive enough to belief that she had never heard such words before; maybe not exactly spoken as he was saying them now, but certainly compliments and flattery. He needed to do something that would set him apart from every other man, probably knights and earls, that had offered her compliments. "If my lady would permit me, I should like to sing her a song. One that she has purely inspired." He hoped that if nothing else, this would intrigue her. Enough to pay him attention and to cause her pause in whatever her reason was for being out here in the woods alone. A reason that he had not even inquired to. Though what importance was it right now. His objective was to serenade her, whether she was committed to another man or not. She was still far too gorgeous to be ignored or dismissed.

[ella]

Oh. Poor guy was not going to give up. She really did not have time to sit here and swoon over a very handsome male. It was not her place really. Well... okay so it was her place, she could do as she wished, she just did not wish to keep her brother waiting. Not that he was expecting her or anything. There was never a plan to meet him, it just kind of happened. So he would never miss her if she did not show herself. Of course she wanted to... but life got in the way. Life always got in her way. If she wished to fight alongside her brother, she was told a lady would do no such thing. So she stayed home to tent to womanly things. Stupid life.

He continued to throw out compliments like they were nothing. She could not help but smile. She did enjoy such things. But it was just all to...wrong. She did not see herself a lady, so she did not wish to be treated as such. He may be so very kind but it was just odd to hear such things. She was not the most popular person in the world, so she did not get such things often. Her beauty would be complimented every now and again, but it never went past that. She did not have a smooth tongue and she talked about things that lady's should not know of. It usually sent the man running. So why was she sitting here listening to this mans kind words. She was pretty sure she knew what he wanted, something she'd never give him, Robert has always told her to watch out for such people. They were also deep in the woods. What would someone like him be doing out in the woods. It was not a very safe place these days.

A song. He wanted to sing her a song? Well this was surly very new to her. No one wanted to sing to her before. Her eye brow raised in a confusion as she looked to him, curious. Why would he wish to sing her a song? Why? Her mouth opened to speak but it shut with out a sound. She shook her head a little to herself. Sing to her? It was... what was it? She was just so confused. Her dress had been fixed a while back, but she had found other things to fiddle with while he spoke. His words were so very nice... but No no no no. Not without.... no. Just no.

....more time pasted. She must look a little dumb sitting there debating so much. But all the while she shook her head softly. No no. She cant sit here she cant listen. She may want to but her brother. He'd want to see her. She wanted to see him. It's been a few days. Next time she'd be able to sneak away would be in a week maybe. He'd been gone longer, but she had the chance to see him now. Why waste it?

She let her hands cover her face for a moment rolling her eyes at herself. She did not want him to see such a rude thing. She stood up rather quickly, kind of abruptly. She did not bother to adjust her cape that hung off her neck behind her shoulders. The end of her bow, and her pack of arrows could be seen now, but she paid it no mind. She was a busy women. She needed to find out what he was doing here first off. He was not too far from where her brother should be. "Sir." She said her voice changed, it was a little louder, held more authority to it, it sounded almost like her brother... only of course, it was from the lips of a lady. "Tell me." She said fixing her cloak, to cover her blue dress again. "Why are you in the forest at this hour." She asked, once sure her multi green colored cloak covered every bit of blue. She'd find out if he be friend or foe. That's what Robert would want her to do. Now was no time to be a lady. No. She could not let such weak emotions keep her. Robert has taught her better then that. He taught her to be smart. He did not want a fool as a sister. Ariánna did not wish to disappoint him. She had already let this go on too long. She needed to put an end to it before she got caught up in his words.

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[Allan A'Dayle]

Allan A'Dayle

------Oh dear. The interval of silence nearly drove him insane. Mostly because he felt as if he was hanging on her very reaction to his proposition, even if it was as innocent as to sing her a song. But he showed no distress. He remained perfectly composed. In fact, his smile grew even a bit more. She was smiling at him; a good sign was it not? He casually began to reach for his cittern. Even if she did not yet agree to hearing a song, he could easily break the silence with one. But the moment his hand touched the wood of the handle, he paused, bringing his arm back forward, empty of his musical instrument. She was shaking her head? She did not want to hear a song? Now she was covering her face! Uh oh. What if Allan had upset her? He certainly did not want to do that!

------He was about to say more words to convince her, or perhaps apologize, when his eye caught notice of something. She was armed with weapons. A bow and an arrow. Now why would a woman of nobility be out in the woods on her own, armed with such weapons? He wanted to ask, but also did not want to offend. He was trying to win her over, not unintentionally insult her. He forced his gaze away, the constant grin still playing on his lips and the gleam of happiness in his eyes. Her next question did not discourage him. Though it was a valid one. Despite the validity of it, he could not tell her the truth. For an honest answer entailed revealing that he was an outlaw, working with one of the most notorious men in Nottingham and stealing from people like her: the rich. So he would have to lie. Which he could do smoothly enough. "Do you believe in fate?" He asked, disallowing the charm to slip from his voice.

------He nonchalantly took a step closer towards her. He did not do this in a threatening way of course, and hopefully, her instincts were sharp enough to detect this. If not, he would casually enough step back; if he sensed the slightest discomfort from her. "For I do. And I believe it was destiny that compelled me to take a walk at this time, to this location, only to find you." He was not going to give up on her! Even if she rejected a song, even if she seemed suspicious of him... he would forever regret letting her go if he did not at least attempt to get on her good side. "Is destiny not what brought you here?" He asked, partially joking as he gave a playful smile. It was his way of making light of the inevitable awkwardness that filled the air when two strangers met each other. And more subtly, a way to find out what her own reason was for being out in the woods, without directly asking it.

[ella]

"No sir I do not." She said a bit of an attitude attached to her words. She did not necessary mean it, but it was there rubbed all over her words. Rude as they may be, she'd apologize later if need be...maybe. She was still not sure how she felt about this man. But she stood her ground watching him closely. Could she pick out a lair, yes seeing as she was quite good at it herself. But she was unsure if she knew his normal movements well enough. She did not spend a lot of time looking at him, so she was unsure if she knew his normal.

She shook her head. "Flattery will get you no where with me." She added paying his step no mind. If he got to close she knew what she needed to do. It really would be ashamed to hurt the kind young man... but it was her life or his. And she was not about to let her self die. Her father only just did so a few years back, she was the only one left keeping the family together. Her brother did need her. She could never leave him. So the poor music man would have to check out of this life so help him.

"You are wrong." She said to him. "It is free will that made me come here today." She said her arms stood by her side just in case she needed something. "It was very kind meeting you." She said glancing around for a moment. "But I must be going. If you dare follow me, you will take your last breath." Ari?nna said in her most meanest voice she could fine... which was not as harsh as she meant it to be. She did not want to hurt him. She did think he was funny, but she had somewhere to be. She needed to go find her brother. He was around here someplace. She would just have to get there with out a guest. Robert would not be happy about her bringing a friend. So maybe she should turn back. She would not lead anyone to her brother...but how does she know he will not follow her. How does she know he has not been following her for a while now. How.... how does she know he's alone. Maybe he has friends. Robert would save her for sure, seeing as she was pretty close to his camp. All she'd have to do was scream...then again she could just place an arrow between his sweet eyes. But it would be such a wast of a good man. There were not too many of them around now a days.

Strange... she has still not taken a step. She was still standing where she had been but a moment ago.

((She's being mean. lol))

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[Allan A'Dayle]

Allan A'Dayle

------Well this was not going well at all. Had he overstepped some sort of boundary? Was she just this defensive with everyone? Her words were harshly spoken, and any sane man would be warned to step away and be on with their lives. But not Allan. He had not had the pleasure of company with such a woman in a long time, and he often through not with his brain, but with another part of his male anatomy. Of course, he was no where near making such propositions with her, but he wanted to at least be 'friends' if nothing else. It was again, a start to something that could perhaps mean more... or lead to something more. This was his hope, but her words and the tone in which they were spoken was ones he was rather unaccustomed to. Her unpredictability in that sense made it more of a challenge. Or it could cost him his life. For he sensed no jest nor exaggeration in her threat.

------He held his arms up a bit from his sides, to show that he was not going to do anything rash. "I mean you no harm, and I carry no weapon." Except for his trusty slingshot but that hardly counted compared to her bow and arrow. Besides, it was not as if he was going to shoot her with a pebble or something. And if she did not believe his claim of being void of weapons, she could gladly search him. The thought forced Allan to suppress a pleased smile, knowing it may only upset her further. He kept his expression as friendly as possible, but also holding truth so that his claim would not be found disproved. "If free will has brought you, then I do not doubt it will be what grants you leave." Not that he wanted that of course, but nor did he want her to feel trapped for he had no way to forcefully keep her here. And he hoped his words suggested that very thing: that he would not force her to do anything.

------Besides, she was not yet moving and he took that as a good sign. "I am but an innocent wandering minstrel. Only wishing to enlighten My Lady of just how much a mere smile from her can cause a man to worship her." Even if flattery got him no where with her, he was not about to admit defeat. "So while you may possess free will, understand that I do not. For you have captured my very heart and soul and I can not so easily be at liberty or rest." Perhaps his words were a bit dramatic, but it was no lie that something about her had fully grasped him, and gravitated him towards her. Truth be told, many women had this effect on him, but the effect she had on him was of a greater extent and magnitude. For she was far above the league of women that ventured in bars and the streets. She was someone who exceeded the average woman and Allan was all too pleased that he had managed to run into her as he did.

[ella]

Ari?nna was just not so sure with this one. She did not see anything hang from his belt besides his instrument. But that could surly be used as a weapon. There was nothing on him that she would call a traditional weapon...so that statement could very well be true. But she did not think this man would be so stupid to travel into these woods unprotected. He would have a friend near by watching... or maybe he had a knife hidden in his boot. She was unsure, but if he was truly unarmed he was one stupid man with a death wish. You do not walk around in the woods with nothing. That was just... it was.... she had no more words to describe a unarmed man in the woods.

Well he did have a good answer for most everything...that kinda made her mad. She did not want to be treated like a fool. Not that he was doing it.. but it still irritated her... why? She did not know. She could very well leave when ever she wished to leave....yet here she stood... looking him over, looking for anything he could use for a weapon. She could not see any..but he would surly hide them. That's what she would do. She did not always have a bow with her, but she did keep a knife rolled up in her apron when she worked. It was there just in case she needed it. But she had her arrow's it was a better weapon then any knife. This was not turning out to be the day she wanted it to be. If he had not come alone she would have been laughing with her brother, maybe practicing with her bow a little. She has not been able to practice much seeing as her father and brother are not around. The sheriff thinks she should stop practicing so she has to do it in private now.

She crossed her arms at his spoken words. They were all very nice, but she did not want to hear it right now. Another time things would surly be different... but not right now. She did not want to be a lady. She wanted to show him she could handle her own....yet she really did not want to hurt him... he was too kind for that. His words were nice to hear... but they were just words. He was a minstrel it was his job to have smooth talking lips. She understood that. So she was sure his lips had spoken words far better then this to other women. He was just thinking of one thing. Her brother told her a lot about it. Well.... she tried to get him to. But he would speak very little. Not even her mother would speak of such things... but she was smart and put two and two together.

"Interesting." She said, taking a step towards him, her arms by her side again. "Your words are very kind... and you had be going for a moment." She admitted. "But I will not be made out a fool." She added. "You know your ways around a women heart..." She said moving her way closer, and closer still. She would not let him get close, but she would invade whatever space he had if she wished. She was making that clear. She would be in charge here if anything. "But I can assure you...you will not have mine." She said moving so she was behind him now. She let her hand touch his back, letting it roam slightly. Checking to make sure it was his back she touched, making sure there was no hidden pouch in his shirt.

If her brother would have seen this whole scene he would have been very disappointed. She saw that, and wanted to make up for it now. So she'd take whatever weapons he had, and present them to her brother when she saw him..today. Yes she was still going to see him. She let her hands move to his arms and lifted them higher, so she could check him right an proper. He dare move and she'd have him in the dirt in a second. She was cocky with her skills to subdue a man, which could cause her harm, a point her brother made many times. But she could not help but feel such a way. "I do not believe you are who you say you are." She said letting her hands feel around his arms, chest and back. She was determined to find something, a knife or blade of some kind. Her movements were slow forceful, and maybe a little sensual, but she would not miss anything...and his words were still nice, no matter what he was or was not.

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[Allan A'Dayle]

Allan A'Dayle

------As Allan had previously acknowledged, she was an unpredictable woman. So he had not been expecting what happened next, but it only lifted his spirits. Or, pleasure rather. He would never doubt her instinct again, nor her wit. For she seemed familiar with men like him, and distrusting enough to not believe a word he said. He could not help but let out a small chuckle, hoping she would not grow offended by this small sound of amusement. It was not done in mocking, but rather... he was impressed by her keen perception. "T'was not my intention to make a fool of you My Lady," he said, still smiling but keeping a strong sincerity in his voice. He could not tear his gaze off of her. He watched her every move as she slowly moved towards him. As she came closer, he was able to better see each feature that made him seem almost porcelin.

------Fair light skin, rosy cheeks... yes, she was a noble. And perhaps it was because she was the closest he had been to one for some time, but she certainly was the most beautiful he had seen. He stayed completely still, still gazing upon her with a grin on his lips. "You are right," he said, not going to deny what she already could conclude from him. He had already lied about enough... not that utmost honesty was one of his virtues. "But trust me when I say that no other woman I have encountered, is even comparable to you." Because... well, for reasons he had already silently acknowledged. She was out of his league, but it was not impossible to be with such a woman. Whether it be for a night, a day spent in innocence, or long term. Ah, long term. Allan never planned for anything long term. He just enjoyed the moment and the spontaneity that life provided for him. Speaking of spontaneity, he could not hide his smile.

------Though he made no effort of it before, it posed as even more of an impossibility now. For she was beginning to search him for... weapons. Yes. That was most probably the cause for her actions. He moved his cittern away from his back so that she could freely search it, and then raised his hands once again so that she could have clear access to wherever she so wished to look. He carried no weapon on him. His legs granted him the speed if needed, and their camp was not far from here anyhow. "My Lady, I would never wish to pose as a threat to you. So please, search as thoroughly as you so desire." For it granted him pleasure, and her assurance. Her search was not done with gentleness, but it was rather a bit rougher than what he would have expected of a noblewoman. Then again, many things about her went against a typical woman of nobility.

------It was something he liked; something that intrigued him about her. "Has my lady found anything thus far to create doubt in my words?" He asked, wondering if she found anything suspicious. Not that he was trying to rush her for he had previously fantasized about being searched by her, and the reality of it was far more satisfying. He had not a sword nor a dagger, and if she did happen to find his slingshot, it would be easy enough to explain how harmless it was. Maybe he would even minimize his talent with it so that she knew it was more of a juvenile hobby rather than a tool he was skilled with. "If you do not believe I am who I claim, perhaps you should led me sing you a song. And prove to you that I am nothing but a talented minstrel, with a song in his heart to sing to the woman who claimed it." He had already said that she had claimed his heart, but why not reiterate it. He was a poet after all, and surely women preferred soft words rather than harsh crudeness.

[ella]

"It was not your intention....?" She question. Well then it was clear what his intentions were and she did not like that any better. But men were going to men, and boys were going to be boys. That's just how they were. They were all the same. Robert has warned her about them. She'd have to keep and extra close eye on him now. Not to worry... she could handle just about anything. If worst comes to worst she'd just scream her bother was close enough that he could hear her. He'd recognize her scream that was for sure. He was just one man. If he brought friends thats when she'd call for help.

"You ask me to trust you now." Ari?nna said sucking her teeth for a moment. Tisk tisk. Trust him now? No no. She'd not trust him, not today at least. He already gave her reason to distrust him. So why would she start trusting him now? He gave her no reason to trust him. He was just using his words so she'd favor him. But she would not listen to such words. She'd not let his words get into her mind, make her weak. No she would ignore them as best she can. He was not going to get out of this so easy. Next time he approached a lady he'd think twice... or so that was her goal. But he if kept speaking she was not sure how it would end. Again...she was still here.

She let her hands glide around his clothing searching for any hidden places a knife could be kept. But she found nothing around his chest. But her fingers reached his belt and she slipped thumb under the belt, the others running over the top to make sure she did not miss anything. He had nothing. Though she did pass over his purse, but she left it, uninterested in whatever money he had or lack there of. She also pulled out a slingshot, which she kept where it was for the moment. She'd come back to it soon. Leaving the everything on his belt she moved her hands to grip his legs, checking them both twice. Still nothing. She glanced up at him when he spoke, but she choice not to have an answer. He has provided her with nothing to have her distrust him... just his words. But... still she would not let herself trust.. not yet.

She moved her hands over his body for a last check. Checking each and every inch she could including some rather private areas. But she had to make sure. Plus she wanted to see his reaction to her being so... forward. Not many women would have the balls to go for it. But Ari?nna would leave nothing unchecked. Once she was sure he had nothing on him, she had no other choice but to check the most private of areas, and she would not be nice while doing it. She was not going to be pushed around, and she wanted to make sure he knew to watch himself.

So he was clean. That was a disappointment. She narrowed her eyes, picking his slingshot off his person. It was the best she had on him. It was a childish toy, but it could hurt...a little. Only small rocks could be used, but it could give a nice little bump on a head if it by it. She held it, looking at it. Shaking her head. A song would do no good. The sling shot was all she had on him. It was quite disappointing. But it was something. Well...kinda. It would be like finding a needle and thread on a young women. It was nothing. But Ari?nna having nothing to show for her search figured it was the best she had. She had nothing to say. There was nothing to say. So rather she pulled back on the band testing it's strength. It seemed pretty solid. "Did you make this? Or trade for it?" She asked curious. It was pretty legit.

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[Allan A'Dayle]

Allan A'Dayle

------She kept searching and Allan kept smiling. This was getting more and more intimate, even if she was taking precautions. He liked her taking precautions. When she asked if it was not his intention, he just slowly shook his head. "I would dare not make a fool of such a woman as yourself. For it would only make me look like an imbecile." He would come out looking like the fool for it was clear to see that she was not one who was willing to allow anyone to take advantage of her; whether it be physically or emotionally. "Nor would I be so quick to demand your trust," he added, knowing once again that trust was not always automatically given to a person; sometimes, it had to be earned. "I only ask that you give me a chance, to prove my truthful words." Though, she would soon enough see that he carried no weapon, so in that way, he had not lied.

------And he highly doubted that she would recognize his face or find anything that would link him to the Merry Men, bandits bound with Robin of the Woods. As the search continued, it did indeed get more... personal. More intimate. When her gaze was lowered, clearly checking certain pockets, which she would find nothing but signs of his masculinity, he looked up at the sky and mouth Thank You without saying the words aloud, and making sure she did not see him. It was quite ironic. If a man did this to a woman, it would be considered partial rape. But when a woman did this to a man, it was nothing less than pleasurable. Incredible how much of an effect a woman could have on a man. And she was no exception. He noticed her pull out his slingshot, and concealed the slight unease he felt whenever someone took hold of this. While he did not rely on violence to get him out of predicaments, he did value his slingshot for it did wonders when used appropriately.

------But he kept a smile on his lips, not wanting her to detect any ounce of his unease. Plus, he immediately grew distracted when she checked a bit too harshly, the areas that no woman's hands grazed in total innocence. "My Lady is rather bold," he pointed out, unsure if he meant that as a compliment or insult. It was neither really, though his tone was not harsh nor accusing. So perhaps it was less the latter. "Which leads me to believe that this is not the first time she has searched someone so diligently." He had after all offered permission for her to search as thoroughly as she pleased, and she was certainly taking advantage of that. And Allan was certainly enjoying every moment of it. Sadly, the moment came to an end when she found nothing and he put his hands back to his sides. "Is my lady satisfied that I am not concealing anything that would pose a threat?"

------He questioned, a light smirk on his face. He wanted to ask her to search again, implying that he had something hidden somewhere -- which he technically did not -- but her attention soon focused on his little weapon of choice: his slingshot. Humoring her interest, he began to answer her question. "I made it," he told her, a bit boastfully. "The band is of the strongest in all of England, and the stick the sturdiest." He was rather proud of that weapon. Having assembled it himself. He had learned a thing or two from his father who had been a craftsman, which included the making of instruments. Sometimes it was cheaper to make them rather than buy them; but stealing them was the cheapest of all. "Would you like me to show you how to properly aim and shoot at something with utmost precision?" He offered. Really, it was just an excuse to be able to stand closer to her, and show off in doing something that he was actually good at, since she still refused to hear him sing and play his cittern.

[ella]

"How nice of you to notice." She answered. Yes she was going to do as she needed, but she did not wish for him to receive any pleasure from it. No. That was not what she wanted. This was not going to let him have fun. It was not going to be like that, so she made sure it was less then exciting. If that truly was the word for it. Bold as it may be she was going to do what she was going to do, and he'd have to tolerate it...or she'd get nasty. She would go right for the low blows too. Her father taught her how to protect herself, not about being fair or polite. No if she was going to take someone down, she was going to go all out or nothing at all.

"I spend a lot of time in these woods." She admitted through her teeth. "A lady must know how to protect herself against.... men with wondering eyes." She stopping to look at him. Was he a man with wondering eyes? It was clear that he was, she just gave him a look. Telling him she knew what he was after. Men were all the same to her. They wanted one thing, and she needed to protect herself. Keep herself for her husband. Whenever her brother finds her one. For she would only marry a man he picked for her. Outlaw or not. He would pick the man she would marry, or she would be single forever.

Ariánna nodded her head lightly. The slingshot still held tight in her hands. This was the only thing she could find. This was it. Done. It was hardly a weapon..but it was something at least. She nodded her head to his reply. He made it. She threw a glance to his hands. They were hands of a worker, so she could believe that.

She turned to look him over again eyes slightly narrow. He wished to show her how to fire such a toy. She knew. It was not much different then a bow and arrow...well in theory. "I can manage." She said softly. She has not spend a lot of time playing with the toy. So she might need some pointers. But it was the same kind of idea. Bending at the knees to pick up a rock of a good size, she stood. Rolling the rock in her hand. It would do for now. She placed it in the rubber, and pulled back. She held it at eye level so she could aim a little better, and let it go. It hit a tree a little ways away. It was not exactly where she wanted it to go but she played it off. She let out a small sigh. "Show me." She pretty much commanded handing over his toy. She was expecting to see skill, anything less would be a disappointment. "Hit the very spot I hit." She added, if he knew how to use the thing he'd hit it no problem. She was so skilled with her bow and arrow she could split an arrow if asked.

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[Allan A'Dayle]

Allan A'Dayle

------Her revelation that she spent a lot of time in the woods certainly explained why she had a bow and arrow with her. And why she was so bold as to approach a man and search him in this manner. For most noblewoman would not do such a thing. Not that Allan was complaining of course. He rather enjoyed the dominance for it posed as a refreshing change from most women he kept company with. When she explained what, or who, she was protecting herself from, she paused and looked directly at him. Allan got the hint, and he only smiled in return. He was never so easily discouraged. Though he knew he was a man with wandering eyes, he was not the vile kind who forced himself upon a woman. Nor would he ever be such a kind. "I agree," he said, speaking of the importance for women to be able to defend themselves. "Though it begs the question of why a woman of your standing spends so much time in the woods to begin with."

------It was a question, or a way of introducing the subject. Her headstrong demeanor only made her more enticing. "But I assure you, if any such man crosses your path now, I will handle him. And be sure he does not pose as any threat to you." She said it in such a way to indicate that he was not the kind of man she need be wary of. But he obviously could not blame her for having her misgivings. After all, he had not ceased in complimenting her since he laid eyes upon her. And he doubted anything would make him stop. To be in her presence and suppress remarks of her beauty would be a terrible waste, and something he would live to regret every moment of his life. When she confidently mentioned that she could manage, he held out his hand as if to tell her 'be my guest' and then folded his arms across his chest to watch her. Was she so confident out of pride? Or was it because she had practice with a slingshot? That would surely be an obscure talent, so he was interested in finding out how much skill she possessed in firing this weapon.

------He was pleasantly surprised. Most woman who used a slingshot for the first time, could barley fire it past where their feet stood. But she had managed to hit a tree with it, yet seemed unsatisfied. Revealing that it had not been her intended target. When she practically ordered him to hit the very spot she did, he grinned. Now, it was time to show off something he could actually do. And hopefully, she would not take this in the wrong way and believe him to be a danger because he could use a child's toy. He took off his cittern, removing the strap from across his chest and set the instrument in the ground. He then took the slingshot from her, making sure to 'accidentally' [though not really for he had done it on purpose] let his hands briefly touch hers whilst taking the item. "It is not about strength, but line of sight, where you place the pebble, and complete concentration." He picked up a pebble from the ground and placed it in its appropriate section.

------Then he brought the band back, keeping a firm hold on the small stone. Raising it a bit, he closed one eye and slightly squinted his other. Within seconds, as he did not require too much time in channeling his focus, he hit the precise spot that she had. Satisfied with his successful attempt, he went back to just smiling at her. "I must say you are rather gifted for someone, who I am assuming, has never used a slingshot before." He should give her credit where it was due, and plus... it was further attempt to flatter her. Now, not only in her appearance, but also her skill. Which was yet another thing that women enjoyed hearing did they not? Some did not appreciate all the shallowness of solely being complimented on their beauty; some women like the deeper things: such as their personality and talents they possessed.

[ella]

"That sir. Is none of your business." Ari?nna said but figured she'd give him a little more, so he does not get tempted to follow her after their meeting. "I enjoy walking in the woods, it's quite the beautiful place... but" She said. "A women of my standing" she mocked. "is not permitted to do such things." She added with a roll of her eyes. Stupid society and the expectation of a women. How she hated it. A man could cook if he wished, but god forbid a women wants to wield a sword. She really hated society, but there was nothing she could do about it. Try as she might to change it will only disappoint her mother, and stain her fathers reputation. Robert has already 'turned bad' she was their only hope.

She laughed at his arrogance. No man would save her. She would not let that happen. She would rather die then have a man come to her rescue. No. No man would save her, she was no damsel. She could and would hold her own. She'd like to see him try to safe her. He'd end up getting himself hurt.

She let him touch her hand. Though she did not notice what he did...she kind of did. She noted the touch, but did not think too much on it. She was too curious about the slingshot. It was quite the toy. It was no bow and arrow, but it could be a handy little toy. Dead useful to if she could use it correctly. She just wanted to see how it was done first before she attempted it for her self. She learned by watching and doing. If you told her, it would do no good. She needed to do it for herself before she could master something.

"Hum." She said to herself as the pebble hit the very same spot she had moments ago. That was impressive, though she did not see any real difference in technique, besides he only kept one eye open, where as both her eyes were open and on its target. Maybe she would try the one eye closed thing... maybe it would help? She was not sure how... but she figured it must help him in some way.

"Thank you." She said accepting his compliment, but offering none of her own. As good as he was, she would not make his head any bigger by feeding him compliments. It was pretty rare for her to give out such wonderful compliments so if he ever got them he had made it to her 'good side'. "Again." She ordered, though it was more of a question, or even statement. Was it just a lucky shot? Or could he hit it over and over again. If he could a few more times it was skill and not luck. She also wanted to watch his technique some more. Wanting to study it, so she could use it and make herself better.

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[Allan A'Dayle]

Allan A'Dayle

------Fair enough. It was none of his business, but he was curious all the same. After her primary comment of it being none of his business, he was not expecting an answer. But once again, she surprised him by granting him with one. "It is indeed a beautiful place," he said in full agreement, but with a very different idea of beauty than her. "Your presence has made it all the more of a radiant place." Yes; he was most certainly not going to give up on complimenting her. Especially when she gave him such perfect openings to do so. "Well you have proven yourself to be a woman who goes against the general norm of expected nobility." And he meant that in the best way possible. "Which of course, I find rather admirable." Perhaps flattery based on her strong personality traits would get him further rather than just comments about her physical appearance.

------Made him seem less shallow and materialistic. Her laughter did not make him laugh, but he held amusement by the sound. Even if it was made at his expense; at his attempt to offer protection. He should have known that a woman such as her would not accept aid from a man. She was well armed herself, so she may very well not need any assistance from him. He allowed the laughed reaction to pass by and focused on something he had a bit more knowledge about. Sadly, it was not something of the utmost intelligence. But right now, it was something she was interested in and that was good enough for him. When she ordered him to do it again, he felt like a dog. Though, one that would be obedient to his master... especially since his master looked like her. He knew that he could fire the stone a dozen times and it would hit the exact same spot. So why not try to teach it more hands on, rather than simply by observance. "Why don't you give it another try?"

------He asked, already picking up another pebbling in preparation but not positioning it to fire. "Come, I will show you how to properly hold it, position the stone, and shoot it." Yes; more hands on indeed! Since he could not teach her how to use a bow and arrow, because he was rubbish with one, he could show her how to do this. And perhaps later, even show her a few chords on his cittern. Women loved music! Which was why he still remained disappointed that she would not allow him to sing to her. Ah well. One talent at a time. "And if you pass this test, I will even craft you your own slingshot," he offered, knowing it would not be difficult. And because she seemed like the kind of woman who would be interested in weaponry rather than being wooed by flowers and jewels. She could get plenty of that from any other bloke... as previously acknowledged, he needed to do something to set himself apart from the others.