As the travelers stood just outside the gates of blossom, a young woman approached them. She wore a tight lavender bodice, which showed the curves of her ample bosom to perfection. A golden girdle was slung low on her hips, thin strips of lavender silk hung from it, exposing her long fair legs. She wore thigh-high soft leather boots with a tiny gold chain around her ankle. She wore a small jeweled dagger at her waist. Her long raven hair fell in loose waves to her waist. Her violet eyes sparkled, welcoming the young men before her.
“Good day young travelers,” her lavender lips purred, “I am called Tuculcha. I heard that you are in need of a guide and I offer my service.” Her smile lit upon each of the men in turn, then she gave a disapproving glance to the warrior woman with them. “My brother hunts in the swamp, many a time I’ve ventured in with him. I know many of the dangers and some of its secrets, I believe that I can be of some assistance if finding the wizard Gareth is your goal.” She walked closer to Thothalas and patted the little rabbit on the head and addressed the mage, “Your maps are out-dated, my knowledge is not. I can be of a great use to you.” Her violet eyes studied each of the men in turn, ignoring the warrior, “So do you take me up on my offer? My services are yours for the taking.”
Ashleyien frowned at the woman; she was obviously trying to play to the men’s affections. “I don’t like her.” She said, slightly put off by the woman’s attitude. “She’s not dressed for running around a swamp, it look more like she’s trying to find a warm be for the night.”
Tuculcha laughed, “You are just jealous because I am much more beautiful than you. None of these men would ever be interested in the likes of you. As for my clothing, they are for comfort and mobility. Don’t worry about me in the swamp I can handle it better than a would be warrior. My battle skills could easily surpass yours.”
Ashley really did not like this woman’s arrogance and bragging. “Well, I vote to leave her behind. What do the rest of you say?”
