“You know that saying ‘from the frying pan into the fire?’â€? Jo asked, looking ready to spit tongues of fire at her companion. “I’d have to say that this is an accurate assessment of our situation. Oh, that and I seriously hate you.â€?

Ralph chuckled nervously at her, wondering if being in close proximity with her right now was in fact less dangerous than the army that was currently circling them.

“Horses Ralph,â€? she spat. “Men with swords. On HORSES .â€?

“I see them Jo,â€? he said nervously, wishing he could throw himself beneath the thundering hooves and save himself the agony of having to a) listen to her berate him any longer or b) wait for a large man to run him through with a sword. “What would you like me to do about it?â€?

“FIX IT!â€? she hissed. “Or I swear to you in the name of science, tiny man, that I will run you through with a broadsword!â€?

He chuckled nervously, looking up at the men who were now staring at them in growing confusion.

“We come in peace?â€? he said.

“Hate is an understatement.”