... Nothing? Not even- [ Jill's expression shifts to one of pure confusion. ] I have never seen you before, and you do not know me; why would you even offer to help? Why would any of you offer to help us?

[ She looks over at Ardbert and Mya before looking back at Phya. She didn't question their assistance before, but now that Phya is actually here and the subject of payment has come up, she can't help but ask.

But then Phya asks a question of her own, and at first, Jill hesitates. Rather than answer right away, she says instead: ] I'm hardly a lady, at least not any sort of lady that you would be accustomed to.

[ But Clive is far more important than any of her own insecurities or worries, so she continues: ]

I had- I was attempting an escape, and yes, I am aware that means I am a fugitive. [ She looks as though she expects them to apprehend her right then and there. ] By chance, Clive found me, and he was resolved to help me escape. We were on our way when dragons attacked us, and what I can only assume was a stray lance was heading my direction.

[ She shakes her head. ] He should have let the blow land instead of taking it for himself.

[ Her hands curl into fists as the gravity of it all weighs down on her again. ]