Log: Operation Urban Renewal Mission 2
From FiranMUX
West of Ellish: Forest's Edge
The forest floor seems to dance as the crisp autumn breeze of this
evening scatters the dry leaves and pine needles. The air smells of
pine, and only the occasional star can be seen through a break in the
foliage overhead.
Contents: Ladonna chest Bain Ganos Obvious exits: North East South West Northeast Northwest Southeast Southwest Marsalos enters followed by 4 Eagle clan guards. Gadrus has arrived. Gadrus enters followed by 1 Hydra clan guards. Ranuk has arrived. Abirnyn has arrived. Laurelia has arrived. Laurelia enters followed by 10 Bear clan guards. Talikos has arrived.
The pale morning of fall is cold, crisp, and biting. Ellish is eerily still, disturbingly quiet, and though clouds, peaceful and fluffy, float overhead... it's really not very reassuring. Even they seem somber, ready to turn from white and harmless to black and threatening. The fields are blackened and charred all the way to an encompassing, enclosing forest -- a claustrophobic forest. The smell hits: curling, twisting, smoky -- the smell of burnt leaves and seared earth. In the distance, voices rise. Men's voices, all of them. They sound unhappy, they sound disgruntled, they sound tired and they sound fearful. But the sort of angry fear that leads to poor choices and fatal mistakes.
Marsalos leads the small group o' Firans out towards...wherever it was Argin told them to go. He glances back at the others and makes a motion of his hands out to his sides, away from weapons. For now. "Remember to keep your cool. All of us." *Firan*
Abirnyn never stops in her soft humming. She smiles pleasantly as she follows the group, holding her stuffed backpack tightly to her back.
Laurelia's smile couldn't be any more lacking in heat than it is. It's a determined look but there's also attentiveness lurking beneath her polite exterior. Back straight, she cants her head slightly when the sounds reach her ears, as if trying to puzzle through them.
Ranuk follows Marsalos' lead, removing his hand away from the hilt of his sword. Still, it is easily within reach. His nostrils flare at the smoke, his brow furrows at the voices ahead -- cumulating in a rather distasteful, unfriendly expression. He walks along, shoulders squared, despite his stuffed backpack.
Gadrus follows the group along as well, scowling a little though he's being fairly attentive, his gaze shifting out, turning towards the sounds of the voices. He nods his head in agreement with Marsalos' words, turning his attention over the other republic soldiers trucking along with the patrol. A breeze rustles the ashen ground, picking up a few of the leaves and swirling their charred remnants around the boots of the approaching soldiers. As men and women press on through the brutalized field, the smell turns strange. More than just burnt, more than just ruined crops. The smell is one unfamiliar to most Firans; a few purple blossoms that have not been seared to black sweep forward on the back of a cold wind, tumbling near the feet of the soldiers. The men's voices have ceased - an even eerier hush has fallen. A snapped twig to the left! There is something, or someone, that way.
Abirnyn glances around and her hum goes silent. She frowns slightly and cocks her head slightly to the side. She glances around and sighs, saying "Oh, these poor people..." *Firan*
Laurelia's eyes move in the direction of the snapped twig, her attention remaining there only for a moment. There's a wariness to her movements, for all that she seems confidant, as if she's trying to remain prepared for what may come. The blossoms as well, she glances down at them... perhaps trying to think if she's seen them before.
It is, to note, too far to tell if those voices were speaking Shamibelian -- far too far.
If those flowers were magenta, Marsalos might be here all day! Alas. His eyes flicker down to the blossom and he sniffs the air once, his brows drawing at the scent. "What is that?" He murmurs under his breath, mostly towards Laurelia. Looking around slowly as he becomes aware of the hush fallen, he takes a breath and calls out once in Firan and once in Shamibelian...
You say "We are not here to harm you." *Shamibelian*
Ranuk crushes a purple blossom beneath one foot, his brown eyes momentarily flickering downwards at it. He doesn't flinch at the snapped twig, but he /does/ turn to glance sharply in that direction. He is silent, however, his mouth curled into a pensive scowl.
Laurelia pauses a moment longer, leaning down to take a better look at the plant. Though she does not touch it for the moment, instead sniffing again and looking it over more closely.
<OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Laurelia rolls her Intuition + Herbology at difficulty 6 and gets 2 successes.
Gadrus's nose scrunches just a bit at the scent, with the attention of many off to the left, Gadrus allows his gaze to shift about, scanning the surroundings in the other directions.
In the distance, a lone man stands upright, sword wielded. He looks skittish, unhappy to see the sight before him. He speaks in Shamibelian, then in very broken Firan. "Who comes here?" Bain cries, poking at the air with his sword. "We're armed! Back!" His voice is ragged, as if the winter has frozen his very throat. "I speak Firan! You back!" The icy wind of early morning -- not night! -- rips through the field of burned ash and gray leaves, pulling at both ex slave and Firan liberator alike. The sort of cold that seeps into you and stays.
Laurelia's expression darkens at what name her memory calls forth. "This is a field of poison. All of this, it's wolfsbane." her words are not loud, but they are more than enough to carry to her fellow diplomatic folks. The blossom is left untouched as she surveys the area once more, with a new appreciation for just what levels of horror the Shamibelians might use that for. *Firan*
Abirnyn glances slightly to the wolfsbane before turning her attention to the lone man. She looks over him in concern and curiousity.
Talikos looks down at his feet. Urgh. Trampled wolfsbane. "We're going to have to wash our clothes.." He looks up at the shouting man, squinting. *Firan*
Ranuk's hand immediately reaches for his sword, but does not draw it -- not yet. He looks quickly to Marsalos, perhaps waiting for some signal, before resting his gaze once more upon the lone man.
Marsalos glances at Laurelia a moment, raising an eyebrow. "Wonderful." That under his breath just before he spots Bain. His breath fogs in the cold air and he opens his hands, palms towards the be-sworded man to show they're not on his own weapons. Switching back to Firan he says, "My name is Lord Captain Marsalos Iberik, and these are soldiers of the Republic, representatives of Prince General Argin Elianik. We are not here to hurt or to fight you." *Firan*
Gadrus holds his hand up for Ranuk to stay, scowling a bit, though not at anyone in particular at the moment. He looks to Laurelia, "Is it any harm to us?" he asks, knowing little more then the fact that wolfsbane is poisonous, and often found in the food in the N'Gato pantry. *Firan*
Talikos contrives to look harmless. This isn't a big stretch when you're 5'0 and barely 100lbs soaking wet.
"It is our field!" the man cries, now a little perturbed. He moves a step forward, sword still out. "They burned it, men in green!" Bain's gaze snaps from person to person in Marsalos' party; he shivers a few times and shakes his head. "Don't steal it!" he cries first before hearing that these are Republic soldiers. Bain's reaction... it is not so good. "YOU burned our crops! YOU are STARVING our children!" His voice, though still rough, grows louder. He stops where he is, not letting himself or the Firans come any closer. The standoff, seven to this one lone farmer, spans the length of a very tall man.
Laurelia holds her hands out in a peaceful gesture once the man in the distance has been sighted. Echoing Marsalos's gesture nearly her body language unthreatening even as she tries to get a better look at the man. Listening for any other voices that might be nearby. Gadrus's question receives a quiet answer "Do not eat it, and as was suggested, have your clothing cleaned." then her pale gaze focuses on Bain again, but she refrains from calling out, letting Marsalos speak. *Firan*
Talikos looks around at the field, squinting down at the charred remnants. "Is he.. alone?" he murmurs to Laurelia. "I was expecting more, from the scout.." *Firan*
Abirnyn glances over to Talikos and says softly, "He did say "we're armed." I'm sure others are out there; hiding, watching, waiting." She frowns slightly as she glances over the field and then focuses her attention back on Bain. *Firan*
Ranuk hooks one thumb loosely into his swordbelt, giving Gadrus a rather faint nod. He meets Bain's gaze easily, before looking past the man -- down the charred field, perhaps seeking signs of accomplices.
Marsalos looks like he has no intention of going any closer. He keeps his hands up and out to the sides for now. "Yes, this is your field. Prince General Argin has not sent us to take it from you. Believe me, were it that he would have sent far more than these." He makes a small gesture towards the others, particularly the women and Talikos the Short. "The Prince wishes to offer his aid to you and your children." *Firan*
Talikos ohs. He's being gestured at. He reaches into his pack and holds up something woolen. "Uh.. who burned the fields, then? Was that during the siege?" This is to Marsalos, or Laurelia.. or anyone, in a quiet voice. *Firan*
Bain shakily points his sword at Marsalos and warily, oh so very warily, stares at him. "You'll pay for it all?" Looking around, it's a pretty mammoth payment. We're talking land devastation -- the soil is ruined, the poisonous crops now worthless. Nevermind that they'll have to wait another season to turn a profit. "You'll pay? For reworkin' it, for ... for the loss too?" Bain hesitates, staring at Marsalos quietly. He glances at Ranuk, shakily points his sword that way, and then looks back at Mars. "You pay for tha new seeds?"
Abirnyn moves closer to Marsalos and says quietly to him, "If it helps, sir, if they need help working the fields...I grew up on a farm..." Her voice trails off as she shrugs helplessly. *Firan*
Gadrus nods his head at Laurelia's words, his attention turns towards the farmer, "Now Mer, calm yourself and we can help." he says simply, though still scowling a touch, "When was your crop burnt, Mer? And the republic has clothing, and food, to help your family make it through the winter." He adds. The former hydran looks towards, "Perhaps we should have seeds brought in from Anarinuell, and the outlaying lands so they might plant foodstuffs next season?" *Firan*
Laurelia says aside to Marsalos "Offer to pay for new seeds, seeds that will grow food crops. To help them store food for winters to come." yes practical and... not poisonous. No matter how much people say those IAs like their poisoned hairpins. She hasn't spoken directly to the man yet, in fact it seems she's content to remain an advisor for the moment. Her polite smile showing actual compassion for the suffering, even if... it's still in that polite way. *Firan*
Talikos doesn't bother offering advice. Chiefs and Indians, and all that. He just contrives to look unthreatening. Though he does edge up on tiptoe, breaking 5'1" for a brief shining moment. *Firan*
Ranuk glares darkly at Bain. Or perhaps, the sword Bain points at him! His expression clears mildly when the offending weapon is directed elsewhere, at least. He gives a slow nod towards Bain, however, as if to back up the words of his comrades.
Marsalos nods to Abirnyn's muttering and Laurelia's as well, then looks back at Bain. "We have expert farmers with us, Mer. Skilled in working the land. We can help you not only with restoring the fields through money to buy new seeds, but also with assistance with labour, should you wish. We are here to work with the citizen of this city." Argin did say he could spend the Republic's money! He also makes a small gesture towards Gadrus. "We have also brought with us right now some warm clothing that you are welcome to." *Firan*
"Wolfsbane," Bain quickly says, staring at Gadrus tentatively when he offers seeds. "An' you pay for everything..." The man seems to think this is just too easy; he eyes the Firans with great suspicion. "How do we know you ain' comin' back? Ain' gonna burn us down later?" Another icy wind rips through the burned fields just as Bain's attention is again drawn to Ranuk. Ranuk, it seems, is the subject of much of this man's ire. He points his sword at the man again then looks at Marsalos. "C..clothes... on the ground... Back away! A..and no. You pay. All of it. You burned it!"
Talikos whispers "wonder how many there are.. you think we could fit them inside the walls?" *Firan*
Laurelia's voice remains low, Marsalos ward. "Why wolfsbane, it has less value now one would think." her eyes remain towards the man as if to make sure none of his comrades come streaking out from behind him somewhere. She shifts her pack, perhaps reading to remove some of the clothing. *Firan* "Why would we burn your crops, mer? We want this city to live, not to die." Marsalos watches the man carefully, especially when he starts going pointy-point with that sword, and he turns his head slightly to address the others. "Everyone step back a bit. Go ahead and put the clothing on the ground." The mention of wolfbane makes him pause then. "Why is it you are growing wolfsbane here, and not edible crops?"
(LOTS OF OBJECTS PLACED ON THE GROUND)
<OOC> Ladonna says, "You guys were not kidding."
Abirnyn slowly places her bunch of clothing on the ground and steps away from them.
Ranuk slides his backpack off, quickly, and pulls a wool byrrus out of it. It's dreadfully crumpled because, well, the Gold Dragon man couldn't be bothered to fold any of it. He drops it on the ground, along with whatever else he's got in there, the wool picking up soot and charred remains. His eyes watch Bain darkly, carefully, before taking a step back.
Marsalos was thinking that before Laurie said it. Ista Aldrik - Iberik team power!
You whisper "I don't know...but that will be a decision for the PRince. I doubt they wish to leave their land." to Talikos. *Firan*
Gadrus dumps a stack of boots on the ground, along with everything everyone else dumps out, "What is your name, mer? I am Lord Gadrus Didoron of the Cockatrice Clan, "And I am curious, Mer, would you grow crop other then wolfsbane if our agriculturists were to assist you, and seed were provided?" he asks. *Firan*
Laurelia's movements echo those of the others, removing the clothing from her backpack slowly and setting it upon the ground. Hers is neatly folded and she brushes off the area with her boot before setting it down. Ha, less soot on it that way... or it's a strange craving for neatness in this field of chaos and destruction.
You sense Talikos nods quietly. "The 3rd may just come through on another sweep if we can't convince them to work with us.. or come under our lines in some way.." he wonders ,then falls quiet again.
You whisper "We will have to note their position to the Prince to give to the third." to Talikos. *Firan*
Talikos gets a scroll from his pouch, squinting back at the city. He starts sketching what looks to be a very crude map. This Cartography 1 has to be good for something!
Bain looks sharply at Laurelia and at Marsalos. He says loudly in a thin, strained voice, "You lie!" Maraslos, apparently, is the liar. "You burned! /Green/ soldiers! Say they're lookin' for resistances!" Unfortunately for the Firans, Marsalos' perceived slight is coupled with the appearance of a crapload of green outfits. Bain shakes his head and shouts, "We need money to live, to eat. We farm what we can!" Bain no longer looks cautiously ...uh. "optimistic". He looks cold. And upset. But he hesitates to just start hackin'.
Talikos whispers "uh.. are they selling that to the GOATS..." *Firan*
Abirnyn glances around and frowns. "Oh dear..." She glances to Marsalos and then to Bain. *Firan*
Laurelia can remain not speaking to Bain personally any longer. Instead she queries into his distress, her voice calmly questioning. "Do you know who was in charge of this, what they looked like? I assure you they were not to harm any civilians that were just trying to get by with the winter." a glance to Marsalos "If it is found out who has done this, action could be taken." *Firan*
"If you attack us, mer," Marsalos replies, very calmly. His hands still don't drop to any weapons. "There will be no money. We lie not in saying we are not here to harm you. And that we are prepared to repair your fields and offer our assistance." He pauses for a moment. "We may even be willing to buy your crops from you." He nods slightly to Laurelia.
Abirnyn takes a deep breath and turns to Marsalos. "Sir," she asks softly, "I know I'm but a trainee, but might I talk to him? I can somewhat sympathize with him. What they're going through..." *Firan*
"Mer, I'll ask again what your name is." Gadrus says, "And if you tell us when your crops were burnt, we will find who was responsible and then they will be punished for burning your crops. But you must cooperate as Lord Marsalos asks, and we shall help you recover the damage that was done, and see your family does not starve."
Talikos quietly sketches, attempting to at least put down a rough idea of where the party is, in relation to the city. His tongue sticks out. He's looking at the fields, more than the interplay between Bain and the rest.
The man shakes his head at Marsalos and grows dark. He takes a few steps back, away from the Firans and the clothing between them. "You ruined it to begin with. You're stealers and starvers. We just want to live in peace. There's raids. There's greens. They's you. You're killin' us too." Bain keeps his sword up, but he does seem quietly introspective -- between the calming words and actions of Marsalos and Gadrus, he is less edged. "You buy?" he looks up at Marsalos. "We sell. How much you pay for it?"
You whisper "What do you wish to say to him?" to Abirnyn. *Firan* Laurelia's words are her only ones offered, silence coming to the fore as she waits for Marsalos to answer the man. Instead she once more turns her attention to looking over the area, checking to see if there are any signs of dwellings.
Abirnyn whispers "Well, I know how hard a life it can be out here on the fields. And that, given all that's happened, they must be terribly frightened and upset that their lives have been damaged, if not ruined. I dunno who's responsible for things, and if it's the Republic army, as they say, well, then, they have a right to be angry. But blaming folks won't get the crops planted and their families feed." *Firan* There are no dwellings visible from here.
Abirnyn whispers "And also, that, whoever did this, did this in the past. We're here now and we want to help. And we can help. But they have to let us." *Firan*
"I will be blunt with you, Mer." Gadrus says, scowling just a touch, "Wolfsbane is worth nothing on the Firan market. We do not have need of fields of poison, you will need to learn to grow other crops." he says, looking across the other soldiers, "Are any of you farmers?" he asks.
Talikos winces.
Marsalos listens to the man's ranting, not contesting that they did ruin the field. His eyes flicker once around the area, taking in the size. He looks at Gadrus profile and arches a brow. "Actually no, it is quite useful to us." Back to Bain he says, "I would be curious as to how much you can produce, mer. I can offer you above value for them, fifty stenis per herb." *Firan*
Gadrus, unfortunately, makes Bain's amiability disappear. He snaps, "We grow that here! No other crops! /No Soldiers!/"...and in speaking such, Marsalos is ignored or forgotten.
Abirnyn leans close to Marsalos and whispers softly to him for a moment. She blinks and glances to Gadrus and frowns. "This is their livelihood! We can't just up and tell them to change that!" she says to Gadrus. *Firan*
"Lord Gadrus is not authorised to make the decisions about what is happening here," Marsalos says, giving Gadrus a chilly look before looking back at Bain. "My offer stands."
Laurelia's icy gaze is directed at Gadrus for his blunt comments. Still she doesn't speak again, letting Marsalos try and salvage the situation unless he asks for aid. Such is the position of supporting the leader that she has taken up.
Abirnyn shakes her head slowly, saying, "We've not the right.." Her voice trails off. *Firan*
Talikos murmurs to Laurelia, standing close to her.
Since everyone else jumped down his throat, Bain relaxes a little -- though he sure does glare at Gadrus! The man shakes his head ...left. Right. "Pay us for damages first," he eventually decides. "Damages. First." And then he opens his hand, palm up. As though they just have coin to spare!
You whisper "Damn. I have very little on me. The Prince was to send money if it was needed. Do you have anything?" to Laurelia. *Firan*
Gadrus steps in towards Marsalos, still scowling a little and he mutters to the Iberik quietly. Ranuk manages to hold his tongue, for the time being, though his body language is something else. He stands stiffly, his eyes narrowed at Bain. Gadrus does get a brief, appreciative glance, but little more. The soldier shifts his backpack on his shoulders, waiting, watching.
Gadrus mutters to you, "This man smells dirty, Lord Marsalos. There is no farm house, he does not tell his name, and he has avoided all questions about agriculture when it does not involve him being paid personally for the crop that was burnt."
You whisper "He is not getting anything right now." to Gadrus. *Firan* . "We are a diplomatic mission, mer," Marsalos replies to Bain. "We carry no funds on us, only the clothes we have offered and some medical supplies, which you are also welcome to. Prince Argin must be made aware so that he can make available the funds and bring farmers here to help assess the correct amount. This is what we can do."
Talikos whispers "I can offer 10k.. I have some on me.. good faith, down payment.. whatever?" *Firan*
A long, long pause fills the room. Silence from Bain. Long, long, long pause. He looks neither pleased nor placated.
We can leave you a token," Marsalos goes on. "Forty thousand stenis. But as I say, we are but diplomats, we do not walk around with large amounts of cash. Our offer, however, is good."
"You Firans have lied to us before. You pay - you leave all you have.. You swear it?" the man /finally/ asks hesitatingly.
Abirnyn glances back to Marsalos and says softly, "I have a little bit. Almost 200 stenis. I don't need it; they can have it." *Firan*
You whisper "If he will take it then yes. I have thirty thousand on me." to Talikos. *Firan*
Talikos whispers "maybe we could ask about if they have needy people.. children.. sorry to harp on bout it, but Dame Cyrilla will be mad at me if we don't try every chance we got. She's got a temper." *Firan*
At long, long last, Bain nods. He agrees. "Wait," he says quietly. The man disappears, hidden by cold and burned hills. When he comes back, his arms are laden with a set of iron armor. He places it on the ground. It looks pretty lame - burnt, unattractive. "You pay us," he cautions. The armor seems like an offer of good will. Crappy as it is. Ladonna opens the chest.
Talikos hands you 10000 stenis.
Laurelia does not carry stenis about here it seems. At least not today it seems. A nod at Marsalos's offer to the man, as she continues to just look diplomatic. At least she's a good looking diplomatic. You whisper "It's alright, keep yours. We have enough to placate him." to Abirnyn. *Firan*
Marsalos puts down 40000 stenis. Ladonna closes the chest.
Talikos hefts a little pouch, and offers it Marsalos' way. He offers Bain a youthful grin.
Gadrus has gone quiet after his muttering to Marsalos, he watches the man with a scowl upon his face still as he stands there.
Abirnyn nods to Marsalos and looks at the iron armor and smiles pleasantly to Bain.
It's not over. As soon as the exchange is made, a second man - a man called Ganos - moves up from the hills. He, too, is armed and poised for attack. Tentative. And /much/ more demanding. "STOP. You promised money for the ruined crops! I couldn't /harvest/, I want payment for my missed labors!" His Firan seems a bit better.
You drop the 40000 stenis.
Abirnyn blinks and looks over to the new man. She looks him over calmly and silently. Talikos blinks, turning to face the new arrival.
Laurelia is startled for a moment, mere seconds before her impassive mask falls over her features again. She is still getting used to men coming up from hills and demanding and all such war like things.
Gadrus turns to face the new arrival himself, scowling just a touch more at the Bonduin looking fellow.
Ranuk very nearly sighs as Ganos arrives. He turns to survey the new man, his expression very 'what /now/?' It lasts but a moment, before he attempts something more neutral and less... irritated. But it's hard for the Gold Dragon, very hard.
Marsalos removes the small pouch from his belt and adds it to what Talikos gives over. 40k, this is couch change for him really. The iron armour in the chest makes his brow raise slightly. "Thank you, mer. We will take this to the Prince as a sign of your acceptance. Mer Ranuk, if you could collect this chest?" He looks up as yet another one comes marching over the hills. "We have just made a deal to heal your land. We will bring you food and medical supplies to hold you. Anything else will have to be presented to the Prince General for his decision." *Firan*
Horde: Ladonna summons Jaris, Ex-Slave, Herid, Ex-Slave, Scotti, the Halfie, Bernaus, Ex-Slave, Pelius, Ex-Slave, Bain, Marin, Ex-Slave, Alian, Ex-Slave, Claudian, Ex-Slave, Ionicus, Ex-Slave, Justinius, Ex-Slave, Ladoric, Ex-Slave, and Ganos!
As Ganos descends the hill, other men follow him. Ragged, wounded, cold and hungry: all of them. A dangerous combination, to be sure. They all have weapons -- and they're all wielding them, aimed at the soldiers. No one moves to attack, however. Ganos cries, "I don't want false promises, I want sworn retribution."
Talikos looks around. Well, this got interesting! He edges over to Laurelia's side.
Abirnyn gulps softly as she notices the additional men appear. She slowly takes a few steps back and frowns slightly. She looks to Marsalos and says quietly, "I'd be happy to help them, sir. With physical labor, I mean..." Her voice trails off yet again, her focus returning entirely on the band of men, *Firan*
Marsalos raises an eyebrow at the armed men. But still, no move for his weapon, even if he is more on alert now. "If we are cut down here," he replies to Ganos, keeping his voice level, "There will be no repair for these fields. No food. No safety. We have offered all this to you on the name of Prince Argin Elianik, and it will be done. The sooner we are able to get back, the sooner you will be fed, warm, and back working at your crops." *Firan*
Laurelia doesn't pull her bow, but her hand moves towards it at the sight of a mob of wounded not happy looking men. She only does this for a moment though and then lowers her hand again to show that she is not going to be attacking them if all they do is threaten. As Marsalos speaks of all that has been promised she gestures to all of the wool clothing that has already been offered to them, indicating it with a broad gesture.
Ranuk steps forward to retrieve the armor at Marsalos' order, with a slight nod to the Eagle nobleman. He reaches the location, but does not stoop down to get it, as Ganos and his horde arrive. His hand rests upon the hilt of his sword, he turns to watch the proceedings /very carefully/, with one eye on Bain.
"Pay me for my missed harvest," Ganos demands again, staring directly at Marsalos. He is a different sort of barterer; harder, sharper, and a hell of a lot less skittish. "Pay me now, for the crop I missed. It grew, but your soldiers kept me hidden inside and I couldn't get out to harvest it. Now there's a frost. The feck is that about /soldier/?" The last is mocking.
Gadrus's attention is now fully upon the large, armed group of commoners, still scowling but he watches and waits for Marslaos' response to the man's assertive statements. Laurelia whispers "Who would have bought this crop of wolfsbane had it survived. How would he have expected to live through the winter with no one to buy." *Firan*
You whisper "I suspect they sell to the Shamibelians, which is why I want Republic hands on it." to Laurelia. *Firan*
You sense Talikos licks his lips, mouth dry. "If needed.. I'll stay as hostage or something. I dunno if we can take them if it comes to it.."
You whisper "No." to Talikos. *Firan*
Abirnyn frowns slightly and looks over at Marsalos.
"What money we brought is there," Marsalos replies to Ganos, nodding to the stenis on the ground. "As I have told your comrade, we are only diplomats and do not have great amounts of money with us. We have to return to the city in order to secure stenis. This is no lie. And the longer we must remain, the longer it will be until you can receive any help."
Laurelia offers a quiet few words to Marsalos as she watches the armed group of men. Their ragged state getting another look at the clothing. "There is clothing there for your children as well, we will bring supplies to tend their ills also." a woman's voice, offering aid for children which is rather fitting. Her tone is one of the calming sort, an attempt to at least smooth some of their new friends edges. *Firan*
Ganos marches right over to the stenis and swoops them up, fingering the coins. "Shite, real stenis," he says quietly. Apparently the steni has more value than the Whatever Currency Shamibelians Used. "An' send us one o' yer contracts not ta ever come back -- we're farmers, eh? Simple folk. ...Bring us food," he says absently, turning to look at his comrades. He rubs his arms idly and bends to pick up a cloak, swirling it around his shoulders and lowering his weapon briefly to do so. He even turns around. Ganos, in that moment, is an easy kill.
Talikos breathes out a breath he wasn't even aware he was holding. His dark eyes flick to the various members of the opposing side. Hey. Howyadoon. Nice to be here. Tip your waiters.
Abirnyn frowns and, before she can stop herself, asks Ganos, "But what of the Shamibelians, Mer?" She makes an odd noise, finally catching herself and lowers her hand, falling silent. *Firan*
Marsalos isn't reaching for any weapon. As Ganos turns to pick up the cloak he just stands there, watching. "Food it will be, and all else we have promised. This is a Republic city now and you are its citizens. We will care for you." *Firan*
Talikos whispers "I got scrolls, if you want to leave something with them signed by you.. maybe they can use that with the 3rd. Avoid some trouble." *Firan*
Gadrus's gaze shifts towards Bain as Ganos comes up, takes the money that was for him, then turns about, watching the other Ellishian for any movements. He's still scowling something fierce.
You whisper "No, not if isn't asked for. If they will accept this then they accept it." to Talikos. *Firan*
Laurelia doesn't seem to be in disagreement with Marsalos over any of this, so she remains silent. Taking count of their numbers and storing away the information for later.
You sense Talikos nods. "I was thinking more to make the -3rd- accept it. in case a patrol comes by and hassles them."
Bain doesn't seem willing to challenge Ganos. He watches the Firans, watches Ganos, and then says, "Your promises again... we promise, too. Take the chest," he disappears behind the hill and shoves the wooden box toward the Firans. "You take the chest when our money comes to us. Deal?"
Marsalos nods to Bain. "That is fine. Now, we have a report to go back and give to our Prince. We thank you." *Firan*
Talikos coughs, and raises his voice, for the first time. "Uhm. Hey," he says quietly, to Bain who's closer. "If your familes.. your folks need medical care. Kids especially. Come to the city, ask for Lord Talikos or Lord Mahir.. that's why we're here." Then he turns to fall into step with Marsalos. *Firan*
As Marsalos agrees, as people start to turn away, a child /blows/ past them to the east!
(PARTY HEADS EAST)
Cold. Cold, rolling grasslands with strange birds cawing unprettily. The child who ran by stands in the middle of the fields and shrieks at the sight of something, bolting off again. That something is pretty clearly the man standing over a huddling little woman and a tiny bundle in her arms. He has horns. He /visibly/ has horns. And he is armed.
Talikos tries to keep his eyes on the fleeing child. "Damn.. where'd they.. oh." Hey, a huge horny guy. His hand goes to his sword. *Firan*
Abirnyn gasps softly as she catches sight of the horned man. "Oh Soli..." she breathes as she instinctively cluthces her dagger. *Firan*
At least they're not evenly numbered this time. Marsalos still looks -very- cautious as they follow the child, his hand now resting gently on his sword but not drawing. He draws a breath in through his nose as he's finally able to spot what they've come to. "Everyone calm."
Horns is all Gadrus really needs to see as he follows the rest of the patrol east through the fields and his hand reaches down towards his long sword, loosening it in it's sheath a little and he scowls darkly, mostly towards Marsalos this time but his attention doesn't stay on the Iberik captain for long.
Laurelia is not so brash as to bolt after a child, it is a cautious movement in the direction that she takes. The others heading that way as well given a nod. Having lost the child completely until it shrieked again, then her pale eyes darken. For the moment she remains silent, her weapon left alone, there are many people here and just one horned guy.
The horned man turns around and stares at the Firans approaching. He has his weapon in hand, but he doesn't appear ready to use it. Instead, he stares at the Republic army with dark eyes and waits. They say nothing, so he growls, "Leave us," and turns back to the woman and child. The baby howls frantically, but it's a weak and sickly howl. The woman, presumedly its mother, leans forward to try and cover it with her body, to warm it, but doing so clearly will do nothing; she's half dead herself.
Ranuk doesn't have to say that he thinks this was a bad idea; it's written all over his face. However, fear is notably absent, and only irritation, impatience remains. His head shakes slightly from side to side, his hand still upon the hilt of his sword, utterly silent.
Marsalos' hand is gripping his sword, tense now. His eyes are chilly. "Stay back," he tells the others in a low voice, that he has to force out. "We are not killing a woman and child." *Firan*
Abirnyn looks over the horned man and cocks her head to the side slightly. She frowns and says absentmindedly, "He doesn't look like he's attacking the woman..." She continues to frown, focusing her attention now on the woman. *Firan*
The hands on swords is enough for Grumholz. He turns around and bares his teeth, his own sword at the ready. He stands in front of the woman and child and shouts in Shamibelian, "Go /away/!" The rage in his eyes is haunting; the woman cowers behind him. Grumholz starts to move forward, frantically looking from one Firan to another.
"We aren't, but he is!" Talikos exclaims, looking at the woman, aghast. "We can't just leave them!" A breeze blows across the lands making fires everywhere flicker.
A hint of iron is exposed as Gadrus eases his longsword just a hair away, watching the Haffie, still scowling. "He clearly is harming her." He says to Marsalos, "Have you forgotten what two haffies have done to us just recently?" he asks with a dark angry scowl.
Abirnyn gasps audibly and lets out a tiny yelp. She turns to Marsalos and says to him, "I don't think...I mean...I think...maybe he's the husband! Or their equivalent!" *Firan*
Laurelia says, "That woman and her child look sick." this said to those in her the group before she nods at Abirnyn. "I don't know if he is a full Shamibelian or a halfie... but he is not attacking them I don't think." and then she calls out in Shamibelian.
Laurelia says ""We are not here to hurt anyone, the child and the woman. Are they ill?" *Shamibelian*
Abirnyn nods to Laurelia firmly. "Maybe we can help the woman..." she says tentatively, allowing her voice to trail off. *Firan*
Marsalos takes a step back. "Everyone keep back. Keep -back-." His voice is quite but insistent. He hears Gadrus, that much is certain from how his hand doesn't come off that sword. "That woman is not a haffie, I am not leaving her here with that horned thing." *Firan*
Talikos divides his attention between Horned Guy and the surrounding scrub. "Where's that other kid? Anyone see where they went?" *Firan*
Abirnyn takes a step back and looks to Marsalos. "Sir, if this is a family...the woman carries a baby. Maybe it's his. Or theirs. I just don't think we should be jumping to conclusions." she pleads. She looks fearfully towards Grumholz, her hand never leaving her dagger. *Firan*
Grumholz roars at Gadrus, furious. At Marsalos, enraged. At every Firan now, because every Firan has become the enemy. "Leave! Them!" he cries. The horned thing, this Shamibelian-or-haffie, stands over the woman and child. It is either protective or possessive, it's hard to tell which. The woman under him shivers and shakes. Her mouth moves, but no sound comes from her. The child cries softly, pawing at her chest. Hungry. Hungry baby. When even the somewhat sympathetic Firans hold their daggers, Grumholz begins to crouch, prepared for a fight.
Gadrus doesn't advance, yet, and his sword doesn't come too much further out, "Goats rape women." he snaps towards Abirnyn, "And that kid had orange skin." He says, letting Marsalos lead though. *Firan*
Abirnyn frowns and snaps at Gadrus in kind. "If he wanted to attack us, he would have already! I think it's pretty clear he just wants to be left alone! Stop being so arrogant! You can't even handle scared farmers, much less something more complicated!" She stares coldly at Gadrus, frowning deeply. *Firan*
Marsalos stares back at Grumholz, his teeth grit. "Attack us and we will destroy you," he snaps back at Grumholz in the same gutteral tongue. "Let the woman and child go." *Shamibelian*
Grumholz's reply is pretty simple. "Never!"
Laurelia doesn't advance, her eyes remain mostly on the woman and child. "They need care, at least warmer clothing. There is so much suffering to ease in Ellish." ye gods does the Ista Aldrik have a squishy side? Regardless she still looks like some icy porcelain doll as she calls out to the woman this time. *Firan*
You whisper "He is not going to let them go without a fight." to Laurelia. *Firan*
Laurelia says "If you require aid, all you need do is ask." - pointed look at the sword wielding man. "She needs care, they --- going to die." *Shamibelian*
Talikos practically vibrates in place. Something about the woman's plight seems to have awakened something in him! "They're gonna die if we don't do something," he says ,bleak. "Don't even have to be a healer to see that.." *Firan*
Ranuk turns to stare incredulously at Abirnyn. "You are not helping," he tells her. And that is that, evidently, as he turns away. He focuses on the foreign words, not understanding, not at all. *Firan*
Gadrus steps up towards Abirnyn, "Do not speak to me unless spoken to, wench." he snarls out, he lifts his offhand up and moves to backhand the sentry across the face, as hard as he can! *Firan*
The horned fellow doesn't seem perturbed by Gadrus slapping Abirnyn. Not at all. He turns to look at the rest of these people speaking Firan in his direction and barks in Shamibelian, "Leave us be!" Again. You whisper "We are going to have to down him to get to her." to Laurelia. *Shamibelian*
You whisper "We are going to have to down him to get to her." to Laurelia. *Firan*
Abirnyn cries out in pain from the strike. She clutches her face and glares at Gadrus intensely. She takes a deep breath and frowns. She gives Ranuk a withering look before looking to Marsalos for a moment. She exhales slowly and faces Laurelia and moves nearer to her, letting loose of her weapon.
You whisper "We are going to have to take him." to Gadrus. *Firan*
Laurelia is distracted by the matter at hand when gadrus hauls off and slaps the only other woman in the group. If looks could kill the man would be in tiny pieces. Instead of speaking to him she notes in a low voice to Marsalos "Apparently we have our own people to worry about as well. That man will not go on another diplomatic mission again if I have anything to say about it, and I assure you. I do." *Firan*
Gadrus seems unpurturbed by Abirnyn's yelp either, still scowling at that. He does though give a nod to Marsalos, and his eyes shift back to the fully/haffie/three-quartery shamibelian before them.
Marsalos ignores Gadrus and Abirnyn for now. One flicker of his eyes to Laurelia but they have a larger problem just now. His attention is on the threat in front of them. "You will have to make us leave. We are not going without that woman being in safety." *Shamibelian*
Marsalos removes his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword.
Unfortunately for Marsalos (et all), Grum is not moving. He stands over the woman and her baby with his sword drawn, backing over them until she is cowered beneath. When Marsalos draws his sword, the horned guy cries something akin to a battle cry! The woman under him covers the baby, huddled in a mass.
Abirnyn leans close to Laurelia to whisper something to her. At Grum's battle cry, she stares at him in fear, grabbing ahold of her dagger once more.
Ranuk removes his <.:::.> Radiant Sun Bronze Long Sword <.:::.>.
Laurelia leaves the matter of well irritation alone for the moment, a nod to Abirnyn before she returns her attention the halfie/shami. "----- we trade then, a pair of hairpins, they are gold of course for the woman and --- child. This is assuming that you are only half Shamibelian, I am giving you the benefit of doubt." the battle cry might have shook her but her offer still stands. *Shamibelian*
Talikos backs up a little bit as things start going south, shrugging the bow off his shoulder. Talikos removes his Stallions Strike Long Bow.
Marsalos hasn't brought his sword up -yet- but now it's ready. He steps closer to Laurelia to block any path between her and the horned man, but it doesn't take him any closer to Grumholz. He lets Laurelia's offer go, waiting to see what that will do, if anything.
...but the charge never comes. The guy stands over the two beings and holds his sword out at the mass of soldiers arming themselves. Laurelia's offer is met only with rage; he bends down, rips dirt from the ground near the cowering, clearly frightened, woman, and hurls it at the Firans. Dirt. Is not so painful.
You whisper "There is preserved meat in my bag. Get it and see if you can do anything with that." to Laurelia. *Firan*
Out comes Gadrus' sword just after Marsalos draws his. He keeps his down for the moment as well, scowling still, rather darkly, at Grumholz as we waits for the goat to make a move, or for Marsalos to make a move.
Marsalos mutters something under his breath to Laurelia.
Ranuk ignores Abirnyn, her withering look going completely unnoticed. He holds his sword, at Marsalos' lead, but stays where he is until directed otherwise. He raises a single eyebrow at the dirt and just... scowls menacingly.
Talikos eyes the dirt. It might be LAVA.
Laurelia seems puzzled by this mans reaction and offers towards Marsalos quietly. "He seems to be defending her from us. Does he seem a full Shamibelian, I'd prefer to not negotiate with one but a halfie... that is less troublesome to swallow." in terms of one thing or another. She nods to bother Marsalos and Abirnyn. Any dirt that hit her, is brushed off, she's kind of dirty anyway. "Does anyone have wool clothing left? Food, there is the point made earlier that we are on a schedule and he does not seem to be harming them." *Firan*
Talikos volunteers, reluctantly. "I got food.." *Firan*
"Just a linen tunic," Ranuk adds, after a moment, "some child's things."
Abirnyn stands close to Laurelia, keeping her attention fixed on Grumholz. For a moment, her gaze turns to the woman and baby. She frowns slightly in concern.
Marsalos grits his teeth. "That is a Shamibelian, Lady Laurelia. It doesn't matter what we give them now, once we leave they will starve unless he is out of the way and the woman can be taken back to the city." *Firan*
The man doesn't seem placated at all -- he has people holding weaponry at him, the woman is cowering under him, and the token offers aren't doin' it! He cries, "No! No /negotiating/. Leave us!" The Shami-haffie-whatever turns around and bends down to pick up the woman and child.
Laurelia whispers "He is not going to trade anything for them. If you wish to do it forcefully then so be it." *Firan*
Gadrus nods his head in agreement to Marsalos words, "A Haffie is just as bad as a full Shamibelian. They have made that quite clear." He says with a scowl. *Firan*
Laurelia offers a dry note to Gadrus "They might have, but Prince General Argin has issued no orders to kill haffies on sight as was issued for Shamibelians." she says something quietly to Marsalos and then gestures at the pair. *Firan*
<OOC> Ladonna says, "@check reflex at 6 and if you get 3+ succs, I'll put her back down. Anyone who is rushing, pose it and @check."
Abirnyn frowns and says beneath her breath, "Maybe we should just do as he says..." *Firan*
<OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Marsalos rolls his Reflex at difficulty 6 and gets 3 successes.
<OOC> Ladonna says, "3+ succs = getting there In Time."
Marsalos sees the beast going for the woman and well. He's out of patience. "On him." The order is snapped out in Firan as he moves to sprint to intercept. *Firan*
Following Marsalos lead, Gadrus lifts his longsword up and rushes towards the haffie in the wake of the Iberik, attempting to get in to assist him in stopping the Haffie from lifting up the woman.
Ranuk runs forward at Marsalos' order, the armor in his backpack clanky heavily. He doesn't do that terribly, considering -- but he isn't quick enough to get there in time and his frustration shows!
Abirnyn frowns at the order. "Orders..." she murmurs quietly as she feebly tries to wield her dagger. *Firan*
Talikos doesn't rush, but he's bringing up his bow speedily!
Laurelia knows her own limits when it comes to matter of attacking people. She calls out towards Abirnyn, as she's only wielding a dagger anyway. "Leave the... whatever he is and aid the woman." she begins to move forward as well, staying clear of the fighting as she waits for there to be room enough to move in and see to the woman. *Firan*
With Firans moving, the man drops the woman back on the ground and turns around, holding the sword out. "Stay back!" he cries, moving to slash Marsalos with the sword. Closer, now, the Firans can see the dirty woman, the cold and wailing baby at her chest. She looks terrible, bruised and battered. So does the baby. The man howls. "Leave /us/!"
Abirnyn runs over to the woman and kneels next to her. "Mes, everything will be alright." she says to the woman as calmly and soothingly as she can. She stares up at the fighting men. *Firan*
Marsalos doesn't get close enough for a first swing, the sword cutting through air. he jumps back as Grum swings at him, trying to lead him AWAY from the woman and child.
<OOC> Ladonna says, "Abirnyn, you're going to get caught in a scuffle. Please @check agility + dodge at 7 to see if you avoid heavy boots. You're in the middle of a sword fight!" <OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Abirnyn rolls her Agility + Dodge at difficulty 7 and gets NO successes. <OOC> Abirnyn winces.
COMBAT: Grumholz aims and hits Marsalos with his iron long sword. COMBAT: Marsalos takes a hit to the right thigh!
COMBAT: Marsalos misses Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword. "Could use some help here," Marsalos calls out drily, as the man's sword bashes his military skirt.
Grumholz is not moving away from anything -- he wants to stay near that woman and that means his heavy feet are going to come down on Abirnyn's leg. She's in the way! Grumholz misses Marsalos only to catch him in the thigh!
COMBAT: Marsalos misses Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword.
Talikos notches an arrow, aiming, his face pale and set.
COMBAT: Grumholz misses Marsalos with his iron long sword.
Abirnyn screams out in pain as her leg gets trampled on. She grits her teeth as she does her best to hold back tears. "That...was not...pleasant..." she mutters. *Firan*
COMBAT: Talikos aims his Stallions Strike Long Bow at Grumholz! Grumholz, the Haffie is also engaged with Marsalos.
Abirnyn is looking bad.
Gadrus finally catches up with Marsalos as he's trading blows with the Haffiedude and he tries to get into a position in the tussle to engage the man and start swinging and thrusting as well!
COMBAT: Gadrus gets into position to attack Grumholz. Grumholz, the Haffie is also engaged with Marsalos.
COMBAT: Grumholz tries to hit Marsalos with his iron long sword, but he misses terribly!
COMBAT: Marsalos aims and hits Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the left calf! Grumholz is looking a little raggled.
Laurelia still does not rush, instead she moves around the edge of the scuffle. Waiting for a moment when Marsalos and Grumholz move away from the woman. Abirnyn too receives a glance and a "If you cannot walk, crawl but move this way." *Firan*
COMBAT: Talikos misses Grumholz with his flint arrow.
At the man's feet, barely avoiding his footfalls and Marsalos', the woman cries out for the first time. She looks up at the men and tries to scramble away, to protect her child. She stumbles, though, and cannot get away from the fight.
COMBAT: Marsalos aims and hits Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the chest! Grumholz is looking a little raggled.
COMBAT: Gadrus misses Grumholz with his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword.
COMBAT: Grumholz misses Marsalos with his iron long sword.
Abirnyn winces once more and looks to Laurelia and nods. She turns to the woman and grabs her arm. "Come on, Mes, let's get some place safer!" she yells to her. *Firan*
COMBAT: Talikos misses Grumholz with his flint arrow.
Marsalos manages two hits in on Grumholz, still dancing out of the reach of his sword. "Mer Ranuk, get in here!" *Firan*
COMBAT: Marsalos aims and attacks Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the chest! Grumholz is looking bad.
Abirnyn tries her best to help the woman up and away from the fight.
COMBAT: Gadrus aims and attacks Grumholz with his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the belly! Grumholz is looking bad.
COMBAT: Talikos aims his Stallions Strike Long Bow and punishes Grumholz with his flint arrow. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the skull!
COMBAT: Marsalos aims and hits Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the right forearm! Grumholz is looking terrible.
COMBAT: Grumholz aims and hits Marsalos with his iron long sword. COMBAT: Marsalos takes a hit to the groin! Marsalos is looking not good.
Gadrus gets in on the haffie, helping with the assault, his first blow goes wide, missing Grumholz, though he brings his sword around again, impacting it in the goat's belly!
Marsalos gets hit in the Iberik jewels! Yo!
Laurelia stands ready to aid Abirnyn with getting the woman away from the fight, leaving those better at fighting to it.
COMBAT: Marsalos aims and attacks Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the chest! Grumholz is looking seriously bad.
COMBAT: Gadrus misses Grumholz with his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword.
<OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Abirnyn rolls her Agility + Dodge at difficulty 7 and gets NO successes.
COMBAT: Grumholz misses Marsalos with his iron long sword.
<OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Laurelia rolls her Agility + Dodge at difficulty 7 and gets 1 success.
Marsalos shouts, "MER RANUK GET IN HERE NOW"
"Working on it," Ranuk says, through gritted teeth. His sword is held at the ready, but he hasn't been able to get close enough to attack, without tripping someone else.
COMBAT: Talikos misses Grumholz with his flint arrow.
COMBAT: Marsalos misses Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword.
Talikos fwip. Fwip. Lots of misses! He's clearly not all that skilled.
COMBAT: Gadrus misses Grumholz with his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword. Long distance to Ranuk: Marsalos grins
Abirnyn is looking seriously bad.
COMBAT: Grumholz tries to hit Marsalos with his iron long sword, but he misses terribly!
Abirnyn continues to get tripped over and stomped on, only with screaming this time. Still, she decides to stay close to the woman, doing her best to shield the woman from a similar fate.
COMBAT: Marsalos aims and attacks Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the left ear! Grumholz is looking critically messed up.
COMBAT: Talikos aims his Stallions Strike Long Bow and attacks Grumholz with his flint arrow. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the lower back!
COMBAT: Ranuk tries to hit Grumholz with his <.:::.> Radiant Sun Bronze Long Sword <.:::.>, but he misses terribly!
COMBAT: Gadrus misses Grumholz with his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword.
COMBAT: Marsalos misses Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword.
COMBAT: Grumholz misses Marsalos with his iron long sword.
COMBAT: Talikos misses Grumholz with his flint arrow.
Abirnyn continues trying to drag the woman out of the battle, screaming, "Mes, come on! Move!" *Firan* The woman seems just as reluctant to move away from the horned man as he was to give her up -- she tries to avoid the legs, but undoubtably gets trampled on at least once. A cry, faint, and she lets the baby fall from her arms. It is orange.
Marsalos stays on the receiving end of Grumholz's attacks, not getting in every hit but doing a decent job of staying out of range. For now.
COMBAT: Marsalos misses Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword.
Since his first hit, Gadrus hasn't gotten a good opening on the Haffie, he continues to make thrusts, and probing attacks. It's probably all the women underfoot that's distracting him!
COMBAT: Gadrus aims and punishes Grumholz with his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the chest!
<OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Abirnyn rolls her Agility + Dodge at difficulty 7 and gets 1 success.
COMBAT: Talikos aims his Stallions Strike Long Bow and hits Grumholz with his flint arrow. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the chest! Grumholz is looking critically messed up.
<OOC> Ladonna says, "It's not that far from her. It just comes out from her arms."
COMBAT: Grumholz misses Marsalos with his iron long sword.
<OOC> Ladonna says, "She's still kneeling over it." <OOC> Laurelia says, "Oki. Just didn't want baby stomping." <OOC> Ladonna says, "I am sure that you do." <OOC> Abirnyn says, "I roll right?"
Talikos gah's. He's not doing any real good with his bow! He tosses it aside, moving to dive in and assist the womens with operation orange baby.
COMBAT: Marsalos aims and punishes Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the skull! Grumholz is looking majorly screwed up.
COMBAT: Ranuk misses Grumholz with his <.:::.> Radiant Sun Bronze Long Sword <.:::.>.
COMBAT: Gadrus aims and punishes Grumholz with his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the chest! Grumholz is looking like he is on his last limb.
COMBAT: Talikos stops aiming at Grumholz. COMBAT: Talikos unwields his Stallions Strike Long Bow. Talikos drops the Stallions Strike Long Bow.
<OOC> Talikos would like to dive in, shield baby and/or mother, when feasible.
COMBAT: Grumholz misses Marsalos with his iron long sword.
COMBAT: Marsalos misses Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword.
COMBAT: Ranuk aims and hits Grumholz with his <.:::.> Radiant Sun Bronze Long Sword <.:::.>. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the left forearm! Grumholz is looking like he is on his last limb.
<OOC> Ladonna says, "Abi and Laurie, if you guys want to keep hanging out in there, just keep @checking."
Gadrus has an intense look on his face as he finds an opening on Grumholz, his sword hitting the goat in the chest twice with two loud clangs as his blade impacts the armor.
COMBAT: Talikos stops fighting.
COMBAT: Gadrus punishes Grumholz hard with his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the upper back!
<OOC> Abirnyn says, "Did I save the baby?"
Grumholz is looking like death warmed over.
Laurelia doesn't even seem to notice a color of the child, but when the woman drops him she snaps out in a commanding tone. "Drive him off from the pair. Push him back!" still she watches the melee for a good chance to reach in and try and haul the woman and babe out of harms way. *Firan*
<OOC> Ladonna says, "No."
<OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Laurelia rolls her Agility + Dodge at difficulty 7 and gets 1 success.
COMBAT: Marsalos misses Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword.
<OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Abirnyn rolls her Agility + Dodge at difficulty 7 and gets 2 successes.
COMBAT: Grumholz misses Marsalos with his iron long sword.
Marsalos is doing the best he can to get Grumholz away. The manuevering makes him miss a few swings, but he's slippery little Eagle and keeps dodging Grum's in return.
COMBAT: Ranuk tries to hit Grumholz with his <.:::.> Radiant Sun Bronze Long Sword <.:::.>, but he misses terribly!
COMBAT: Gadrus tries to hit Grumholz with his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword, but he misses terribly!
COMBAT: Marsalos tries to hit Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword, but he misses terribly!
Abirnyn does her best to pick up the baby before it can get trampled. She stares at the limp woman and frowns.
Following through with his chest strike, Gadrus brings his sword around to just punish Grumholz with his sword, the momentum knocks him off balance though and he isn't able to capitalize on it.
COMBAT: Grumholz misses Marsalos with his iron long sword.
COMBAT: Marsalos aims and attacks Grumholz with his Raging Storm at Sea Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the chest! Grumholz is looking like death warmed over.
COMBAT: Gadrus attacks Grumholz hard with his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the left eyebrow! Grumholz is looking like death warmed over.
COMBAT: Ranuk aims and hits Grumholz with his <.:::.> Radiant Sun Bronze Long Sword <.:::.>. COMBAT: Grumholz takes a hit to the right hand! Grumholz is looking like the walking dead. Grumholz, the Haffie collapses on the ground, becoming motionless.
Stallions Strike Long Bow has left.
Grumholz is furious and has unleashed a snorting, snarling, spit-ridden version of very slow hell. He misses often, THAT is how angry he is. With every wound, he cries out. Once, he barks to the woman, "Go! Run!" And she promptly scrambles to her feet just as Grumholz goes down. The woman stops short, staring at him in horror. She screams bloody murder.
Laurelia says "Don't kill him!" is yelled out at the sound coming from the woman. "If nothing else he can be questioned." *Firan*
<OOC> Talikos really hates to do this, but he can't stay any longer. It's almost 2am.
COMBAT: Gadrus stops fighting.
Marsalos got cut twice in sensitive areas, geez. He stops...for now...as the horned man goes down. "He is not dead," he says with a tense breath. No doubt wishing he were. *Firan*
<OOC> Ladonna says, "That's fine with me, Talikos. Is it ICly okay to handwave, MArs?" <OOC> Marsalos says, "Sure thing" <OOC> Talikos says, "Tal would just follow whatever mars says, yadda." <OOC> Ladonna says, "Eliza, can you throw Talikos back?"
Abirnyn pants softly and stares at Grum. She turns to face the woman and frowns. At Laurelia's suggestion, she beams slightly and says, "Yes. Questioned." She looks to the woman and tells her, "And, in the meantime, we can tend to you and your baby. And then let you go." *Firan*
<OOC> Eliza says, "Yah."
Gadrus steps back, lowering his long sword as Grumholz goes down in the last flurry of strikes and he goes about wiping his blade off, scowling a little in disgust down at the unconscious haffie.
<OOC> Talikos heel clicks x3. COMBAT: Abirnyn unwields her Hero Series: Zarid ~ silver dagger. Talikos has left.
Laurelia moves towards the woman and child now a nod at Marsalos. "Yes, I just wanted to make sure he stayed that way. I... don't know what they are to one another. But if nothing else he could have information of shami's or haffie groups that are out here." and then she really gets a look at the woman and notes how small she is. *Firan*
Unfortunately for Abirnyn, the woman is now brutally afraid -- her eyes are wide, she looks fairly crazed. She screams again, slapping the woman with her nails extended and scoops the child more comfortably in her arms. But it drains her, this action. She starts to run, stumbling over her own feet. The woman falls into a tiny, malnourished mass not a yard away.
Marsalos exhales, watching the woman. "These people, they simply do not understand evil." He looks at Laurelia. "Here..." He digs some food from his pack and tosses it to the noblewoman. *Firan* Abirnyn winces slightly at the slap, but does not respond in anything but a look of sadness as she watches the woman try to flee. She sighs softly and muses quietly, "I don't think she wants our help...not that we really helped her to begin with..." *Firan*
Laurelia says "She needs tended, I'm not even sure she's older than thirteen. There will be many people like this young woman, they will think us the enemy until we are able to help them realize we only want to help." she moves towards the crumpled mass and speaks softly in Shamibelian. Sothing words as she offers out the food. 'It is alright, we only want to see you better. The... man is only knocked out.'" *Firan*
Gadrus sheathes his long sword, "We should probably see them back to the gatehouse." he says with a little scowl, looking from the goat, to the woman. *Firan*
The young woman turns over to look at Laurelia. Her eyes are rimmed with red, her face covered in dirt and soot and other disgustingness. Blood, everywhere. She coughs a few times, spittle hitting Laurelia's cheek, and shakes her head. Softly, the young woman whispers something, the baby screams, and then there is stillness from both mother and child.
Banalia, Ex-Slave is looking like the walking dead. Banalia, Ex-Slave collapses on the ground, becoming motionless. Banalia, Ex-Slave twitches one last time, then is still.
Abirnyn stares on sadly, letting some tears visibly fall down her cheek. She closes her eyes and, taking a deep breath, stands up slowly.
<OOC> Ladonna says, "You guys do have the option of slaying/looting the bodies, if you wanted to take that. Just puttin' it out there." <OOC> Abirnyn says, "The baby's dead, right?"
Laurelia frowns, it's the frown of a woman who does not know how to process what she has heard or what she sees. She checks both mother and baby, knowing they no longer breath but needing confirmation anyway. "The man, was her husband." is noted in a monotone as she rises to her feet. "They will need to be burned properly. I do not think even if he had not fought that we would have been able to save them." *Firan*
<OOC> Ladonna says, "Yup." Corpse of Banalia, Ex-Slave drops the Baby Harric.
Abirnyn lowers her head sadly. She turns away from the group and remains silent. Abirnyn closes her eyes for a minute as if in prayer.
Gadrus just looks upon the scene, "Should we keep the goat alive?" he asks with a look towards Marsalos, then back down towards Grumholz, scowling a little more at the haffie. *Firan*
Marsalos nods to Laurelia, then considers Gadrus. "We will likely not be able to get the..." He gestures with his sword towards Grumholz. "Back to the gatehouse ourselves. If he wakes he is dangerous. Let us burn all three. No looting the bodies, we are not animals." *Firan*
Abirnyn takes a deep breath and turns around. "Best gather the firewood then before the flies and vultures come." she says softly. *Firan*
Laurelia doesn't seem to argue with this, her eyes having that distant look of one with other thoughts on her mind. "It is as well. He fought to keep her, they shall go to Unot together. The gods will sort it out more properly than we will ever be able to." *Firan*
Abirnyn furrows for a moment and cocks her head. "Wait...how do /they/ burn their dead?" she asks. *Firan*
"They don't," Marsalos replies to Abirnyn. He goes on, tensely, "They bury them."
Abirnyn blinks and nods slowly. "Oh, right, yes...well...nevermind." she says quietly. *Firan*
Gadrus withdraws his sword from it's scabbard once again and nods his head, just casting a hate filled little scowl down at the unconscious haffie as he moves to place his sword down to the things neck.
COMBAT: Gadrus wields his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword.
"Slay not in hatred but pity," Marsalos says under his breath. "And may they find peace and worth with the gods."
Laurelia it seems already agrees with the man joining the woman and child in death. She wraps the babe better against the chill, as if that will help before she turns to whoever is gathering wood.
COMBAT: Gadrus gets into position to attack Grumholz.
COMBAT: Gadrus misses Grumholz with his Piercing Cockatrice Iron Long Sword.
<OOC> Ladonna says, "Oh. He's up. Hold on." <OOC> Gadrus says, "Ahhh." <OOC> Gadrus says, "That explains it. Heh." <OOC> Gadrus says, "Want me to 'stop'?" <OOC> Marsalos says, "SWINGANDAMISS!" <OOC> Ladonna says, "This might run a little over, is everyone okay for it?" <OOC> Ladonna says, "(and yes)"
<OOC> Gadrus is fine. COMBAT: Gadrus freely disengages Grumholz. <OOC> Laurelia is failing but can stay a bit longer. <OOC> Ladonna is wrapping it up in as interesting a way as possible! <OOC> Ranuk can stay. My brain cells are slowly shutting it down, though. ;p <OOC> Marsalos is likewise a little sleepy but is pushin on! <OOC> Gadrus is PST so is fine. ;P <OOC> Ladonna says, "Who is near the bodies?" <OOC> Ranuk is. <OOC> Marsalos is near the woman COMBAT: Gadrus stops fighting. <OOC> Gadrus is near the goatlie. <OOC> Ranuk says, "Ehr. I'm near the Shami." <OOC> Laurelia is near the woman as well.
Slowly, the haffie ...sits up. And rolls the hell out of Gadrus' way. He looks at his dead wife. His dead child. He looks at the Firans. And he shouts, "Monsters!" the way a broken man might shout. He attempts to shove his way toward the woman and child.
<OOC> Ladonna says, "Anyone going to plant themselves in his way?" <OOC> Ranuk says, "Yeah, I am." <OOC> Gadrus will try to cut him down as he runs?
Abirnyn stares sadly as Grum shouts out. She makes no effort whatsoever to draw her weapon. She simply stands there and watches.
<OOC> Laurelia will be moving back from the woman and child. <OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Grumholz, the Haffie rolls his Muscle at difficulty 7 and gets 1 success. <OOC> Ladonna says, "Ranuk and Gad, can you @check muscle at 7?" <OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Ranuk rolls his Muscle at difficulty 7 and gets NO successes. <OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Gadrus rolls his Muscle at difficulty 7 and gets NO successes. <OOC> Ladonna says, "Okay, he breaks free of you guys and heads toward the woman. FEel free to pose."
Laurelia glances up from where she is next to the woman and child, having just finished tucking the baby's swaddling. She rises to her feet as his roar and shakes her head. "There was nothing to be done." as if her words could possibly get t hrough to him. *Firan*
<OOC> Ladonna says, "Marsalos, same @check if you're trying to stop him."
Gadrus is a bit suprised as Grumholz rolls out of the way as he lifts his sword up for the killing blow. He attempts to step on the Haffie's chest to pin him back down, but just doesn't match the muscle of the big haffie slave as he muscles his way towards the woman and child, scowling he moves to follow the haffie to try and cut him down, Grumholz deffinately has the lead on him.
<OOC> Marsalos will assume he got shoved back in the wall o' Ranuk and Gadrus
Grum pushes Ranuk and Gadrus off of him like a man possessed, flinging himself to the dead bodies. He passes Laurelia with his child and looks up at her. "No!" he cries, grabbing his wife and trying to yank the child from Laurelia's arms. "Let us go in peace!" he begs.
Corpse of Banalia, Ex-Slave has left.
Marsalos almost bares his teeth at the man charging. "We had food to offer you. Medicine. They died without a hand laid on them, when they could have been saved." *Shamibelian*
Abirnyn says quietly, but sternly, "Let them. Oh, please, let them." Her eyes are somewhat watery, but stern. *Firan*
Laurelia does not resist the man's taking of his child. Though she attempts to step away again as soon as he's grabbed the baby.
Corpse of Baby Harric has left. Ranuk immediately lunges for the Shamibelian, attempting to stop him from getting any further. He's too late, however, as the Shamibelian pushes past -- the heavier Grum causes Ranuk to stagger back. Balance regained, he sprints forward -- backpack'd iron armor clanking -- after him.
<OOC> Ladonna says, "Oh my. Chasing." <OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Grumholz, the Haffie rolls his Reflex + Escape at difficulty 7 and gets 2 successes. <OOC> Ladonna says, "Ranuk, same @check." <OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Ranuk rolls his Reflex + Escape at difficulty 7 and gets 3 successes. <OOC> Ladonna says, "Okay, Ranuk, you're able to burst forward quickly and you can catch up, are you trying to tackle the guy?" <OOC> Ranuk says, "Hrm. Sure!"
Abirnyn screams after Ranuk, "Just let him leave!" She stares pleadingly towards the ensuing chase, allowing tears to fall down her cheeks. *Firan*
<OOC> Ladonna says, "Everyone pose first and we'll move forward in a sec."
Marsalos says to Abirnyn as Ranuk goes for the Flying Tackle (tm), "If he leaves those bodies are condemned to soul death. We cannot do that to them." *Firan*
Abirnyn looks to Marsalos pleadingly. "It's his family! Shouldn't we let him do what he feels best for his family? Haven't we done enough harm already?" she asks, her voice beginning to crack. *Firan*
Laurelia says "He is not well either." this said after she's managed to compose herself, face to face with someone who for all intents and purposes is a huge full blooded shami looking type. Abirnyn's words do catch her attention "There is little that we could have done for the woman and babe should he have not fought. They were too far gone already, too little food for too long." *Firan*
<OOC> Ladonna says, "Ranuk, this is THE SINGLE LAST @CHECK PAIROFF of the evening. @check agility + combat/wrestling at 7." <OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Grumholz, the Haffie rolls his Reflex + Escape at difficulty 7 and gets 2 successes. <OOC: ROLL: Superfly!> Ranuk rolls his Agility + Combat/wrestling at difficulty 7 and gets 2 successes. <OOC> Laurelia says, "Doh." <OOC> Ladonna says, "The defensive party wins automatically." Abirnyn sighs sadly and says, eyes closed, "...just let him be in peace with the deaths of his loved ones." *Firan* <OOC> Ranuk says, "Aw. Okay!" <OOC> Ladonna says, "In any tie situation in @checks, defense gets the bump, sorry! They're going to fleeee." <OOC> Ladonna says, "But pose your HEROIC TACKLE." <OOC> Marsalos says, "All good" Abirnyn puts on her Hero Series: Zarid ~ silver dagger.
Ranuk continues sprinting, until he's /just/ close enough to grab the Shamibelian. Ignoring any womanly screaming, the soldier lunges forward suddenly and just barely misses him! "Feck," he mutters, taking a few steps to slow and stop from his run. *Firan*
It is so close. It is so very, very close. Ranuk can /feel/ the whisper of the unbathed haffie, his corpsed wife and child. But somehow, this man -- perhaps because he is crazed with grief, perhaps because he is just the most escapingest haffie ever to roam the earth -- manages to avoid Ranuk's tackle. He disappears into the forests to the north. Possibly to one day be seen again! But not today.
Grumholz, the Haffie heads north. Grumholz, the Haffie has left. Marsalos knows they're not going to be able to catch him. The GM said so! Even if it means leaving two people to soul death. "Lord Unot guide their souls. Guide them home." He shakes his head slowly. "We need to get back. Those farmers are going to be the next ones starving if we don't move." *Firan*
<OOC> Ladonna says, "Sorry to strongarm you a little -- if you want to followup later, we have two free days (Friday would be best for me)."
Laurelia nods at Marsalos's words. "Of course, there is much to be seen to. If nothing else... he will follow the way of whatever Gods it is he follows." and at the moment it seems enough for her. *Firan*
<OOC> Ladonna says, "Just let Eliza know when you're ready to be @tel'd" <OOC> Abirnyn says, "I'm ready." <OOC> Marsalos says, "Aye"
Abirnyn bows her head. "At least today hasn't been a complete failure..." she murmurs quietly, following behind Marsalos. *Firan* Abirnyn has left.
<OOC> Laurelia want go sleepy. <OOC> Ranuk is ready too! Ranuk has left. Laurelia has left. <OOC> Gadrus sorries, RL got me. Mustering Field
The grass of this broad field has been trampled down into nonexistence
by the march of booted feet across it, leaving broad patches of hard,
cracked dirt. There's a dry and dusty metallic scent in the air that
tickles at the nose.
The sun burns bright overhead. The whisper of a breeze off nearby
fields and hills is a blessed relief.
(OOC: Places are installed here. See 'places/help'!)
(OOC: Please join the [War] channel for battles. It's for official
business with staff, not for chatter.)
People Here: Laurelia, Marsalos, Ranuk, Sirex
Stuff Here: 6 meat stew, 23 preserved meat, preserved meat, 4 greens and mushrooms, 2.8 fruitcakes, 25 preserved meat, Republic Ballista -- Torture, Bear Clan Military Ballista, Bear Clan Military Ballista B6, Target
Dead Here:
Obvious Exits: Wide Field <WF>
Sky
