OCC: I actually had a hard time with this one. I am still not totally happy with it and will likely go back and do some editing someday.. but for now it is what it is.

Poison:

Balthier woke with a groggy groan. This didn't look like the Strahl or the room he and Fran were staying in while in the city... so where was he? Last thing he remembered was...

"Don't move." a soothing voice said as a cool cloth was placed on his brow. Grey/Green eyes opened, that did not sound like Fran- or any of his female companions... though it did sound familiar.

"You." He said, eyes going wide for a moment. Of all the beings, friends and enemies alike, in the world that he would expect to wake to the pretty, blond thief was not one

"Hello Balthier." Selene greeted with a cheeky smile, amusement sparking her blue eyes. "I'd ask how you were feeling but considering the shape you're in I can guess the answer. I've already had someone go to find Fran."

"Well you're a persistant one."

"So you keep saying."

"I don't have you're locket with me."

"I know." At his look the blonde woman winked. "I searched you while you were sleeping." It was then he noticed his vest, belts, pouches and shoes were neatly beside the bed.

"Then why are you here? And just where is here?" Balthier tried to sit up. Firm hands pushed him back down. Either she was stronger then she looked or he was feeling weaker then the thought. He met her gaze surprised at the worry he saw there.

"I said don't move. You did a good job nullifying the poison but it still took a lot of work to keep you breathing. You're going to be weak for a while yet." Selene sat back down and offered him some water. "I'm surprised honestly you made it as far as you did."

"And where did I make it?"

"About 2 feet from my front door. You're lucky I was home."

He looked around the room, the little he could see of the space was filled with books, maps, and various charts of all kinds. Seemed she had a hobby or two. Other then that there was little that told him anything about her or where he actually was within the city.

"So what happened?" She asked

"Ran afoul with a Viper." He noticed her wince. "Run into them yourself have you?" he smirked

"once or twice. Ruined a lot of clothing thanks to them."

The door knocked. Selene answered. Fran entered nodding a greeting to the shorter blonde. Her nose wrinkled at the scent of poison that lingered on him but said nothing. As the ladies spoke of the occurrence and treatment Balthier dressed on shaking legs. Then Fran helped him to the door. "thank you." he said softly to Selene who shrugged and waved them off.

On their way back Balthier made note of the route and area... he just might want to pay a visit later. Especially if he noticed anything was missing.