Robin threw up his arms as his superior denied him taking any revenge, Matthew immediately following suit too
"Fine... fine... orders are orders... I suppose..." grumbled the rogues taking a few steps backs and sheathing the weapons so assume a less threatening stance
The last thing they needed would be this righteous knight Quintus reporting to Pentre that the mercenaries had refused orders.
Pentre would definitely deny them further payment and throw in some charges of rebellion too, and that would not do them any favours. So the easiest option was indeed, withdrawing a little and doing as instructed, even if reluctantly.
Haldor and Glendale saw Atoli attack Rufus and came to the man's aid, swatting at the angry bird with wooden staffs and discarded logs as if ushering away a wild beast.
Their timely intervention would hopefully keep Atoli busy enough that Rufus, despite his injuries, would grab ahold of Iskra and take her inside as he had planning on doing all along
"Fine... fine... orders are orders... I suppose..." grumbled the rogues taking a few steps backs and sheathing the weapons so assume a less threatening stance
The last thing they needed would be this righteous knight Quintus reporting to Pentre that the mercenaries had refused orders.
Pentre would definitely deny them further payment and throw in some charges of rebellion too, and that would not do them any favours. So the easiest option was indeed, withdrawing a little and doing as instructed, even if reluctantly.
Haldor and Glendale saw Atoli attack Rufus and came to the man's aid, swatting at the angry bird with wooden staffs and discarded logs as if ushering away a wild beast.
Their timely intervention would hopefully keep Atoli busy enough that Rufus, despite his injuries, would grab ahold of Iskra and take her inside as he had planning on doing all along
The knight was disoriented enough by the screech that Quintus had his opening. He shuffled back, his stance shifting a bit to compensate for the pain in his knee while he turned his attention on the other 'knight'. His eyes widened a bit upon seeing the man; he was like nothing Jal had ever seen before. He saw the other man's gesture and heard him, unsure of what it meant but suspecting it was a call for peace.
He looked quickly toward Robin and Matthew, seeing them stand down as well before he decided to do anything to calm himself. The beleaguered knight lowered his blade and shield, slowly returning to a calm stance (though his eyes continued to dart between the three, out of paranoia.)
Once settled he nodded a bit in the direction of the fighting and looked at Quintus; though his expression was hard to see within his helmet, it was questioning. He spoke again, his words starting soft but ending with a harsh, inquisitive note.
He looked quickly toward Robin and Matthew, seeing them stand down as well before he decided to do anything to calm himself. The beleaguered knight lowered his blade and shield, slowly returning to a calm stance (though his eyes continued to dart between the three, out of paranoia.)
Once settled he nodded a bit in the direction of the fighting and looked at Quintus; though his expression was hard to see within his helmet, it was questioning. He spoke again, his words starting soft but ending with a harsh, inquisitive note.
Perhaps it had been on purpose. Though looking at Iskra, practically heaped on the ground, it was much easier to believe it had been on accident. During the chaos, Iskra had grabbed one of her daggers and threw it at Rufus, hoping to do quite a bit of damage based on the force. Yet instead, the blade flew at Atoli, and Iskra cursed her luck, slumping into the grass without a word. There was, however, the faint curve of her lips, almost like a smirk. Perhaps the woman had intended on hitting Atoli? Or maybe she was just trying to figure out another way to weasel herself out of this predicament.
When Rufus lifted her, she hissed in pain, and gave a solid kick to his back, though in her position there was little damage she could do, “Injure me furzher and Onyx vill see you do not survive until spring.” Quite the threat coming from a woman who couldn’t move one of her arms. But she wasn’t going to put much fight up now, having taken in the situation. Iskra would continue to observe and make her efforts later....and hopefully she would be able to make it out alive. Pentre might strangle her himself if he got his hands on her after this, and Iskra wasn’t too keen on that.
When Rufus lifted her, she hissed in pain, and gave a solid kick to his back, though in her position there was little damage she could do, “Injure me furzher and Onyx vill see you do not survive until spring.” Quite the threat coming from a woman who couldn’t move one of her arms. But she wasn’t going to put much fight up now, having taken in the situation. Iskra would continue to observe and make her efforts later....and hopefully she would be able to make it out alive. Pentre might strangle her himself if he got his hands on her after this, and Iskra wasn’t too keen on that.
The harpy hissed and batted at the staffs that swung at her. A gale of air and wind was whipping about from the force of her furious wing beats. As Atoli’s wings came up to properly launch herself into the air, the dagger flew at her. It found its mark and dug into the soft flesh of her under-arm.
The harpy’s scream twisted into a pained cry. Her footing atop the large man slipped and she tumbled to the ground with a soft thump, stunned. Atoli gasped from the pain that seared through her wing and looked at the dagger that was lodged there. Instinctively, the creature sought to pull the offending object out. With a quick jerk the dagger was yanked out. The injured arm tucked against her body protectively as blood spurted; soaking her feathers. She pressed her other hand against her arm to hold it tight to her side.
Her green eyes were as round as an owl’s as she looked at the men. She was now quiet save for her panicked breaths. She didn’t realize that the dragger came from the Bandit King. The creature stumbled back in vain to keep her distance from them. Her gaze looked past the men to seek out the human who lent her aid when she sought it out previously.
“Q-Quintus!” She called out to him. A clear note of panic put a shrill tone in her voice.
The harpy’s scream twisted into a pained cry. Her footing atop the large man slipped and she tumbled to the ground with a soft thump, stunned. Atoli gasped from the pain that seared through her wing and looked at the dagger that was lodged there. Instinctively, the creature sought to pull the offending object out. With a quick jerk the dagger was yanked out. The injured arm tucked against her body protectively as blood spurted; soaking her feathers. She pressed her other hand against her arm to hold it tight to her side.
Her green eyes were as round as an owl’s as she looked at the men. She was now quiet save for her panicked breaths. She didn’t realize that the dragger came from the Bandit King. The creature stumbled back in vain to keep her distance from them. Her gaze looked past the men to seek out the human who lent her aid when she sought it out previously.
“Q-Quintus!” She called out to him. A clear note of panic put a shrill tone in her voice.
Haldor came over to Atoli to seize her, to stop her wandering away and getting more hurt
"Worry not... slavers never let a single captive go to waste, yourself included, bird woman. You are curious enough to fetch some gold, maybe, or a neat pile of silver at least... animals don't go for much but some is better than none" muttered Haldor taking Atoli in arms carefully.
"Now you be still and you will be alright, pet... if you move too much, you will make the wound worse...." warned Haldor in a soft and somewhat kind and calming voice
"Do as commanded there won't be need for further injuries" assured as he wrapped Atoli with his cloak, it would limit her movements and chances to escape but it would keep her warm, a fair trade, as far as he was concerned.
When Rufus took Iskra in arms, and heard her remark, he burst into a chuckle
"Onyx?! You?! Keep daydreaming... wench... there are no women bandits among Onyx except for their leader who is far, far away" assured Rufus in the know.
"If you escaped from them, you need not worry, we are taking you back to their fold...for a fee. Do not see it as selling you to them, see it more as charging them for escorting services" mused Glendale
"Now then, be still, do as told and you will live to see these Onyx bandits soon enough... maybe you can talk them into taking you in. I doubt they would want a liability as you are... but you never know... if you are charming enough and warm them up in ways you women know about... you might get lucky" muttered Rufus
Glendale went about collecting the weapons off the two captives and following Haldor and Rufus back to the barn, gazing over at the distance at Robin and Matthew and Quintus who indeed seemed to be in deep conversation
"Worry not... slavers never let a single captive go to waste, yourself included, bird woman. You are curious enough to fetch some gold, maybe, or a neat pile of silver at least... animals don't go for much but some is better than none" muttered Haldor taking Atoli in arms carefully.
"Now you be still and you will be alright, pet... if you move too much, you will make the wound worse...." warned Haldor in a soft and somewhat kind and calming voice
"Do as commanded there won't be need for further injuries" assured as he wrapped Atoli with his cloak, it would limit her movements and chances to escape but it would keep her warm, a fair trade, as far as he was concerned.
When Rufus took Iskra in arms, and heard her remark, he burst into a chuckle
"Onyx?! You?! Keep daydreaming... wench... there are no women bandits among Onyx except for their leader who is far, far away" assured Rufus in the know.
"If you escaped from them, you need not worry, we are taking you back to their fold...for a fee. Do not see it as selling you to them, see it more as charging them for escorting services" mused Glendale
"Now then, be still, do as told and you will live to see these Onyx bandits soon enough... maybe you can talk them into taking you in. I doubt they would want a liability as you are... but you never know... if you are charming enough and warm them up in ways you women know about... you might get lucky" muttered Rufus
Glendale went about collecting the weapons off the two captives and following Haldor and Rufus back to the barn, gazing over at the distance at Robin and Matthew and Quintus who indeed seemed to be in deep conversation
Iskra looked guilty hearing the scream, and Atoli’s panicked voice, but she was certain the harpy would come for her throat if she realized it had been her attack. So she sat silently while she was stripped of her weapons, thankful she had left her prized dagger at the hideout. And when Rufus began to speak, her lips curled into a small smile, soon growing to a wolfish sneer. “Oh? Vell I assure you Onyx knows how capable of varming men up I am. I’ve burned many men at stake for retaliation. Fire is great at varming bodies, is it not?” She chuckled, as if thinking back on fond memories and not countless executions and murders, “I’ve become especially good at making zhem go cold zhough, Johann knew zhat vell enough vhen I cut his heart from his chest vith knife he proposed to me vith.”
The woman looked far too pleased at his knowledge of the clan, especially with the lack of women, “You’re...vrong about anozher zhing, Onyx has second female. A Knight I’ve occasionally allied myself vith serves us, she’s razher dangerous force vhen she’s vorking under my will. But someone like you vouldn’t know, she vears men’s armor vhen accompanying me. But vhy don’t ve ask our friend,” She nodded her head towards Taff, “How far away Onyx is?”
“Oi!” She called to him, “You zhere! You said my men have your friend, da?”
The woman looked far too pleased at his knowledge of the clan, especially with the lack of women, “You’re...vrong about anozher zhing, Onyx has second female. A Knight I’ve occasionally allied myself vith serves us, she’s razher dangerous force vhen she’s vorking under my will. But someone like you vouldn’t know, she vears men’s armor vhen accompanying me. But vhy don’t ve ask our friend,” She nodded her head towards Taff, “How far away Onyx is?”
“Oi!” She called to him, “You zhere! You said my men have your friend, da?”
Taff considered the fae's demand and payment and nodded in acknowledgement
"Your wish is granted, lady of the forest... stay by me and when the prince is returned safely and out of danger... I am all yours, I will accompany to your home and do your bidding as you have been doing mine, each favour repaid, if you would find me as worthy enough of your presence" offered Taff
It was then, awaiting for Kenji to reply that he heard Iskra's voice addressing him, making his blood run cold
He swallowed hard, heart beating hard and fast in fear, his words stammering in a low mumbled squeak that could not even be heard with ease. He coughed to compose himself and returned the address.
"Certain bandits known to you hold my friend to ransom.... please... I will heal all your wounds and those of your friend if you but assure me that mine will not be executed nor permanently maimed" asked Taff
Rufus slapped Iskra's back bursting into a loud chuckle
"Nice try with your accomplice over there but it will not wash off ... you may shut your gob. Now I know for sure and certain that you are but an impostor, no knights ever travel nor assist the most deadly crowd of rogues, assassins and thieves" concluded Rufus now certain Iskra was lying and impersonating Onyx leader.
"But no matter... since you are so fond them, you will soon face them and.. you will be all theirs... and... they will be all yours" assured Rufus leaving the matter as settled and bringing the two captives back into the charred smoky barn
"Your wish is granted, lady of the forest... stay by me and when the prince is returned safely and out of danger... I am all yours, I will accompany to your home and do your bidding as you have been doing mine, each favour repaid, if you would find me as worthy enough of your presence" offered Taff
It was then, awaiting for Kenji to reply that he heard Iskra's voice addressing him, making his blood run cold
He swallowed hard, heart beating hard and fast in fear, his words stammering in a low mumbled squeak that could not even be heard with ease. He coughed to compose himself and returned the address.
"Certain bandits known to you hold my friend to ransom.... please... I will heal all your wounds and those of your friend if you but assure me that mine will not be executed nor permanently maimed" asked Taff
Rufus slapped Iskra's back bursting into a loud chuckle
"Nice try with your accomplice over there but it will not wash off ... you may shut your gob. Now I know for sure and certain that you are but an impostor, no knights ever travel nor assist the most deadly crowd of rogues, assassins and thieves" concluded Rufus now certain Iskra was lying and impersonating Onyx leader.
"But no matter... since you are so fond them, you will soon face them and.. you will be all theirs... and... they will be all yours" assured Rufus leaving the matter as settled and bringing the two captives back into the charred smoky barn
(( post removed ))
The question was apparent in the tone of voice the mystery knight used, the question probably to do with why so many people were gathered here fighting, or perhaps why his side looked more like bandits than kingdom soldiers. Thinking it over the language sounded familiar, almost similar to German, perhaps German mixed with French...though the words didn't seem to quite fit. It was similar to his own experience with the local dialect when he's first arrived, at first they had spoken a language similar to English, but with odd accents and foreign words mixed in. Perhaps he could give German a go, rusty as he was in the language.
"Guten tag fairer Ritter, wir meinen es nicht schaden, wir sind geschäftlich hier aus dem Königreich" he stated simply to the knight, the hope being that it'd be familiar enough that the knight would be able to communicate with him, or at least use a different, more similar dialect. Of course, German could be completely off but... hopefully his luck would hold out.
whilst he attempted to play the role of translator the pained shout of his name made his blood run cold
“Q-Quintus!”
It was the harpy girl, Atoli, the panic and strain in her voice easily evident. Quintus had to keep himself from jolting at his name being called, something must have gone very wrong. Looking towards the other knight he simply placed a hand on the mans shoulder and gave a nod before heading in her direction, barking out orders for the two merc's to his sides
"keep aggression out of your stances or he'll get defensive, I'll be back shortly" he stated simply before marching with furious intent towards the barn. Stopping in front of the blasted thing he realized he had been clenching and unclenching his hands into fists. The act though simple brought forth a thought.
Why exactly did he care about a non human bird girl that he'd known for less than an hour?
entering the burned husk of what was once the barn he slowly walked towards where the girls where being held, noticing the trickle of water falling through the holes in the barns roofing as he passed by, and as he entered the area and looked at the pained expression on Atoli's face a feeling came over him, and a thought. She looked so very familiar, to a face long since turned to ash.
Making his way towards her he noticed the blood dripping down from her arm and her side he kneeled to her side placing a hand on her shoulder and depolarizing his visor to give her a comforting look. Looking at the wound he deduced that save for being painful, and the possibility of future infection it would be alright. A moment later a very stupid plan came to mind. Leaning close he whispered "play along" to Atoli and gave her a slight nod before standing and walking towards the mercs that had brought them in.
In a voice filled with cold malice he growled out "which of you two fools decided to wound the girl? you know what, doesn't matter, patch her up, NOW" he finished with a sharp bark of the order. It looked like this really would end up sparking into a fight soon he thought, taking a hidden look at the surrounding environment for possible escapes and advantages. Then again if he played this right he could pass off his care for her by making her appear innocent of any crimes, making their attack of her lose any justification, he just needed to watch his wording he thought before audibly sighing. Well at least this is almost over he thought to himself. Unfortunately for him the universe was just getting started.
"Guten tag fairer Ritter, wir meinen es nicht schaden, wir sind geschäftlich hier aus dem Königreich" he stated simply to the knight, the hope being that it'd be familiar enough that the knight would be able to communicate with him, or at least use a different, more similar dialect. Of course, German could be completely off but... hopefully his luck would hold out.
whilst he attempted to play the role of translator the pained shout of his name made his blood run cold
“Q-Quintus!”
It was the harpy girl, Atoli, the panic and strain in her voice easily evident. Quintus had to keep himself from jolting at his name being called, something must have gone very wrong. Looking towards the other knight he simply placed a hand on the mans shoulder and gave a nod before heading in her direction, barking out orders for the two merc's to his sides
"keep aggression out of your stances or he'll get defensive, I'll be back shortly" he stated simply before marching with furious intent towards the barn. Stopping in front of the blasted thing he realized he had been clenching and unclenching his hands into fists. The act though simple brought forth a thought.
Why exactly did he care about a non human bird girl that he'd known for less than an hour?
entering the burned husk of what was once the barn he slowly walked towards where the girls where being held, noticing the trickle of water falling through the holes in the barns roofing as he passed by, and as he entered the area and looked at the pained expression on Atoli's face a feeling came over him, and a thought. She looked so very familiar, to a face long since turned to ash.
Making his way towards her he noticed the blood dripping down from her arm and her side he kneeled to her side placing a hand on her shoulder and depolarizing his visor to give her a comforting look. Looking at the wound he deduced that save for being painful, and the possibility of future infection it would be alright. A moment later a very stupid plan came to mind. Leaning close he whispered "play along" to Atoli and gave her a slight nod before standing and walking towards the mercs that had brought them in.
In a voice filled with cold malice he growled out "which of you two fools decided to wound the girl? you know what, doesn't matter, patch her up, NOW" he finished with a sharp bark of the order. It looked like this really would end up sparking into a fight soon he thought, taking a hidden look at the surrounding environment for possible escapes and advantages. Then again if he played this right he could pass off his care for her by making her appear innocent of any crimes, making their attack of her lose any justification, he just needed to watch his wording he thought before audibly sighing. Well at least this is almost over he thought to himself. Unfortunately for him the universe was just getting started.
((OOC - Atoli / Iskra can asked edit if too OP in the healing end))
"It was this blasted woman who insists on claiming she is an Onyx bandit. Her thrown dagger injured the pretty bird. Who needs foes having such helpful friends eh?" accused Rufus loud and clear finger pointing at Iskra
"Goodness, I have never seen a worse shot if I tried. She was way off target... wouldn't pass for a rookie among us, never mind Onyx quality" spat Haldor shaking his head at the total miss.
"Better keep her well watched at all times and away from any blades before we have more or worse injuries among us" muttered Aynor nodding in agreement at the well made remark.
Glendale nodded in agreement
"Aye aye, we are slavers... you know... slavers never injure stock, not as bad as this for sure, else the slave looses value, see? I for one would not pay the same for a wounded slave than a healthy one for sure" muttered Glendale matter of fact, the pair assuming this was why Quintus wanted the harpy healed.
Robin and Matthew grabbed Taff and brought him into what was left of the barn
"Walk... slave... and no funny business" warned in a low voice, the pair disregarding the foreign knight since they had been ordered not to attack or show aggression and so opting for the opposite end of the scales, completely ignore he was even there.
Taff took a deep breath and ventured into the family home, walking over to Atoli and Iskra, placing hands upon their shoulders in a firm but not painful grip, whispering ancient druid words that would heal both of them, leaning closer to Iskra so she heard his words clearly
"Remember... what was done, could be just as easily undone... you owe me one favour or two after this... common courtesy, you know..." murmured Taff softly.
Once he was satisfied the message had been delivered, Taff stood back coming to rest at the other end of the room, remaining close to Bart who was the least menacing of them and the least bright too. Bart remained in a corner so as to not get in the middle of the others' way, mostly waiting for food.
"It was this blasted woman who insists on claiming she is an Onyx bandit. Her thrown dagger injured the pretty bird. Who needs foes having such helpful friends eh?" accused Rufus loud and clear finger pointing at Iskra
"Goodness, I have never seen a worse shot if I tried. She was way off target... wouldn't pass for a rookie among us, never mind Onyx quality" spat Haldor shaking his head at the total miss.
"Better keep her well watched at all times and away from any blades before we have more or worse injuries among us" muttered Aynor nodding in agreement at the well made remark.
Glendale nodded in agreement
"Aye aye, we are slavers... you know... slavers never injure stock, not as bad as this for sure, else the slave looses value, see? I for one would not pay the same for a wounded slave than a healthy one for sure" muttered Glendale matter of fact, the pair assuming this was why Quintus wanted the harpy healed.
Robin and Matthew grabbed Taff and brought him into what was left of the barn
"Walk... slave... and no funny business" warned in a low voice, the pair disregarding the foreign knight since they had been ordered not to attack or show aggression and so opting for the opposite end of the scales, completely ignore he was even there.
Taff took a deep breath and ventured into the family home, walking over to Atoli and Iskra, placing hands upon their shoulders in a firm but not painful grip, whispering ancient druid words that would heal both of them, leaning closer to Iskra so she heard his words clearly
"Remember... what was done, could be just as easily undone... you owe me one favour or two after this... common courtesy, you know..." murmured Taff softly.
Once he was satisfied the message had been delivered, Taff stood back coming to rest at the other end of the room, remaining close to Bart who was the least menacing of them and the least bright too. Bart remained in a corner so as to not get in the middle of the others' way, mostly waiting for food.
Atoli’s nose wrinkled as Haldor grabbed her and took her towards the barn. As he lifted her she bucked and kicked, heedless of his words. This sent a flash of pain throughout her arm and she froze. Despite her abrasive personality and profession, she had a low pain tolerance. After being dropped back onto the ground the harpy winced.
She looked up as Quintus made his way towards them, and watched with growing surprise as he went straight to her and kneeled. ‘Ah, I called his name didn’t I…’ She thought quietly to herself and watched as he placed his hand on her feathery shoulder. Atoli's glassy green eyes darted up to his face, feeling her pale face get hot red in embarrassment. As he leaned forward and whispered “play along”, she gave a small nod in reply and watched him turn away to speak to the others. For a brief moment the girl hunched her shoulders as if cold; partially hiding her face in her fluffed neck feathers, before straightening once more.
As Rufus spoke up and named Iskra as the one who injured her, Atoli’s gaze followed his pointed finger to stare blankly at her. For a moment, the harpy’s face was blank; before a look of cold murderous intent crept into her eyes. “Is that true?” She asked, her tone low.
She paid Taff little notice when he came forward. Only when he put a hand on her shoulder did glare at him; her mouth twitched as she considered biting. Atoli paused, sensing that magic hung around the man. A warm tingling sensation spread from her shoulder to her injured arm. When he was nearly finished she pulled her shoulder away from him and eyed him suspiciously before checking the wound; a throbbing pain remained but the wound had closed up, leaving a pale scar in it's place under her feathers.
She looked up as Quintus made his way towards them, and watched with growing surprise as he went straight to her and kneeled. ‘Ah, I called his name didn’t I…’ She thought quietly to herself and watched as he placed his hand on her feathery shoulder. Atoli's glassy green eyes darted up to his face, feeling her pale face get hot red in embarrassment. As he leaned forward and whispered “play along”, she gave a small nod in reply and watched him turn away to speak to the others. For a brief moment the girl hunched her shoulders as if cold; partially hiding her face in her fluffed neck feathers, before straightening once more.
As Rufus spoke up and named Iskra as the one who injured her, Atoli’s gaze followed his pointed finger to stare blankly at her. For a moment, the harpy’s face was blank; before a look of cold murderous intent crept into her eyes. “Is that true?” She asked, her tone low.
She paid Taff little notice when he came forward. Only when he put a hand on her shoulder did glare at him; her mouth twitched as she considered biting. Atoli paused, sensing that magic hung around the man. A warm tingling sensation spread from her shoulder to her injured arm. When he was nearly finished she pulled her shoulder away from him and eyed him suspiciously before checking the wound; a throbbing pain remained but the wound had closed up, leaving a pale scar in it's place under her feathers.
The woman gritted her teeth, glaring at the men and then Quintus, “Well maybe if someone hadn’t shot me in the leg and shoulder with a damn arrow,” her voice shook, with rage or fear it was unclear, “I would’ve had a clear head to throw. B-But with Pentre out there....” Iskra put her head down and let out a shaky sigh, closing her mouth.
There was a lot to think about. These men had been chasing her with Pentre. If they had planned on turning her over to him, she might die in this very clearing. The only thing separating them was the wall of trees and roots, and the Bandit was fearful of when it would wear off.
Fear. It felt bitter in her mouth, though maybe that was the bile rising in her stomach. Not one to show weakness, though, Iskra wouldn’t be sick. She stared into Atoli’s eyes when the bird spoke to her and didn’t say anything for a moment, and then, in a gruff tone she choked out, “Accidents happen.”
And then, came Taff. At the pressure on her shoulder, the woman let out a small pained whine, buckling a bit and moving away before he had finished; she stared at him, her eyes narrowing as he spoke.
“If I die here, your friend will meet a very unsightly end, I promise you that.” She snarled at him; Iskra wasn’t sure how to prove her identity to these bandits but for now, she was displaying the same behavior of a caged animal, lashing out at everything in range.
There was a lot to think about. These men had been chasing her with Pentre. If they had planned on turning her over to him, she might die in this very clearing. The only thing separating them was the wall of trees and roots, and the Bandit was fearful of when it would wear off.
Fear. It felt bitter in her mouth, though maybe that was the bile rising in her stomach. Not one to show weakness, though, Iskra wouldn’t be sick. She stared into Atoli’s eyes when the bird spoke to her and didn’t say anything for a moment, and then, in a gruff tone she choked out, “Accidents happen.”
And then, came Taff. At the pressure on her shoulder, the woman let out a small pained whine, buckling a bit and moving away before he had finished; she stared at him, her eyes narrowing as he spoke.
“If I die here, your friend will meet a very unsightly end, I promise you that.” She snarled at him; Iskra wasn’t sure how to prove her identity to these bandits but for now, she was displaying the same behavior of a caged animal, lashing out at everything in range.
The small creature seemed pleased with Taff’s offer, the impish grin on her face only twisting wider as she nodded. Her reflective eyes flicked over to Robin and Matthew as they approached, grabbing Taff and heading to the slightly charred barn house. The fae’s cow like ear flicked and she followed on after the trio towards the barn. Her foot steps made little noise on the soaked grass and she seemingly glided along into the barn.
She didn’t draw a attention to her precense, but instead stood off near the corner, watching intently through knowing eyes. She studied the crowd inside carefully, profiling them and learning about them from their appearance and actions. Quietly, she stood near Bart and Taff, just watching, drinking in all she could from the odd gathering of people in the burnt barn.
She didn’t draw a attention to her precense, but instead stood off near the corner, watching intently through knowing eyes. She studied the crowd inside carefully, profiling them and learning about them from their appearance and actions. Quietly, she stood near Bart and Taff, just watching, drinking in all she could from the odd gathering of people in the burnt barn.
Jal watched Quintus as he attempted to speak with him; his mind tickled by the similarities of some words but baffled as they failed to come together. He grimaced after a moment of struggling, only to notice that the other man's attention was already pulled away. He lifted a hand as the strange knight stepped away but didn't move to follow just yet, turning to closely monitor the bandits. He then let them take Taff into the barn, lagging behind upon noticing the strange woman the others didn't seem to pay attention to. He strained his eyes but could only tell that she was out of place; knowing full well already about it since her sudden appearance.
So instead of following the bandits, he followed her. When that choice lead him inside he regarded the interior, quietly trying to piece together just what was going on. The knight grew tense with the sight of the three captives and his hand drifted close to his sword again. It stalled just inches away, further indication of his own indecision. Even if he did fight these strangers, there was no way to help the three escape lest the green walls disappear.
The conversation the group had meant little to him but his yearning to understand drove him to watch their body language. Clearly the white-haired woman was ill at ease, similarly to the black... haired? girl. Jal blinked rapidly as Iskra threatened her captors and pawed idly and uselessly at his visor.
So instead of following the bandits, he followed her. When that choice lead him inside he regarded the interior, quietly trying to piece together just what was going on. The knight grew tense with the sight of the three captives and his hand drifted close to his sword again. It stalled just inches away, further indication of his own indecision. Even if he did fight these strangers, there was no way to help the three escape lest the green walls disappear.
The conversation the group had meant little to him but his yearning to understand drove him to watch their body language. Clearly the white-haired woman was ill at ease, similarly to the black... haired? girl. Jal blinked rapidly as Iskra threatened her captors and pawed idly and uselessly at his visor.
Quintus looked at the assembled group before him, examining them in detail. The 'mercs', in reality slaver scum, were relatively lightly armored, even a skilled knight from this world could, with some luck, deal with them. Next came the young captive and his apparently summoned creature, a humanoid creature that looked oddly alien, the hairs on his neck raised and a small twitch in his trigger finger confirmed to him that it, or she? brought up unwelcome feelings. Regardless of her docile behavior, her examinations of the room and its occupants highlighting her as a possible problem, that was without including both of their apparent use of magic. Finally came the strange knight in glowing armor that talked in pseudo German, he seemed confused as to the occurrences, that coupled with the glowing armor marked him as a wild card. He frowned, in such close quarters it might have been a simple task to eliminate all threats, but with the wounds the two girls had taken, that route of action was highly unlikely to succeed without more harm befalling them. The merc's had misunderstood his worry, which was good all things considered, his cover may last yet.
His attention was taken up by the movement of the magic captive, he hadn't gotten a good look at him with all the action happening, a bit scrawny looking, young too. Edging to the side he got a good look at what he was doing, the wounds on the girls slowly knitting themselves shut. That confirmed it, the boy was magic, more important, the girls appeared fully healed. A smirk found its way onto his face, playing his cards right he could convince the boy to lend his aid to their escape, perhaps even the knight. Looking around the area his plan came to mind, standing he walked towards the only viable entrance to the area they were in before facing them all, his arms crossing.
"I have questions" he stated simply his darkened visor facing Taff, "you will answer those questions"
"I saw what you did to the girls, I want your name, profession, talents, all of it, more importantly, I want to know where she" Quintus nodded to the pale purplish creature "came from, and why a wall suddenly grew from thin air"
Motioning the slavers to bring him forward, Quintus continued, "and you, hired help, will inform me of your occupations and how and why you came upon this case" finally Quintus finished by looking at Jal
"Und Sie werden mich auch über Ihren Hintergrund informieren."
His attention was taken up by the movement of the magic captive, he hadn't gotten a good look at him with all the action happening, a bit scrawny looking, young too. Edging to the side he got a good look at what he was doing, the wounds on the girls slowly knitting themselves shut. That confirmed it, the boy was magic, more important, the girls appeared fully healed. A smirk found its way onto his face, playing his cards right he could convince the boy to lend his aid to their escape, perhaps even the knight. Looking around the area his plan came to mind, standing he walked towards the only viable entrance to the area they were in before facing them all, his arms crossing.
"I have questions" he stated simply his darkened visor facing Taff, "you will answer those questions"
"I saw what you did to the girls, I want your name, profession, talents, all of it, more importantly, I want to know where she" Quintus nodded to the pale purplish creature "came from, and why a wall suddenly grew from thin air"
Motioning the slavers to bring him forward, Quintus continued, "and you, hired help, will inform me of your occupations and how and why you came upon this case" finally Quintus finished by looking at Jal
"Und Sie werden mich auch über Ihren Hintergrund informieren."
"I'm Aynor, a bounty hunter, they call me the slayer, I'm an assassin, kingslayer, dragon slayer, among others. If it breathes and can die, then I'm the one to make it happen. Former lord ranger and lately swords for hire. I was sentenced to hanging for disposing of abusive lords friends of Pentre and he offered a pardon in return for services, paid services" explained Aynor
Robin, slaver, ... erm... I better introduce myself as a livestock gatherer and trader. I'm an accomplished healer, I was sentenced to hanging for unlawful acquisition of livestock and untaxed tradings, lord Pentre offered a pardon in return for services, paid services
Matthew, impersonator, well... a persuasive educated bard? I was sentenced to hanging for disrespecting authority, impersonating lords, usurping authority and misusing noble titles, lord Pentre offered a pardon in return for services, paid services
Glendale, thief, ... uhmmm... a property valuator, retriever and trinkets expert. I specialize in relocating and redistributing goods... and I was sentenced to hanging for stealing the weaponry from the royal armoury, lord Pentre offered a pardon in return for services, paid services
Haldor, crook, tax evader, cheat, hmmm, unusual not-so-honest merchant ? I make trinkets of all sorts, use, reuse, recycle whatever comes to hand. I was sentenced to hanging for forgery of royal pardons and release orders, lord Pentre offered a pardon in return for services, paid services.
Rufus, mercenary, well... a bodyguard and executioner. I was sentenced to hanging for beating up abusive drunken guards, lord Pentre offered a pardon in return for services, paid services.
"We are all outlaws, as you can see, and we share a different view of justice than the rest of ordinary citizens, while we normally kill those who hold higher authority and are unfair and abusive like Pentre... we were made an offer that was too good to miss, everyone likes freedom and gold, especially if they come together.
The mission was to capture this runaway woman... but we never agreed we would deliver her to him, not when bandits like Onyx pay twice as much... for slaves that are worth the while, like her" muttered Robin looking down at Taff
Robin, slaver, ... erm... I better introduce myself as a livestock gatherer and trader. I'm an accomplished healer, I was sentenced to hanging for unlawful acquisition of livestock and untaxed tradings, lord Pentre offered a pardon in return for services, paid services
Matthew, impersonator, well... a persuasive educated bard? I was sentenced to hanging for disrespecting authority, impersonating lords, usurping authority and misusing noble titles, lord Pentre offered a pardon in return for services, paid services
Glendale, thief, ... uhmmm... a property valuator, retriever and trinkets expert. I specialize in relocating and redistributing goods... and I was sentenced to hanging for stealing the weaponry from the royal armoury, lord Pentre offered a pardon in return for services, paid services
Haldor, crook, tax evader, cheat, hmmm, unusual not-so-honest merchant ? I make trinkets of all sorts, use, reuse, recycle whatever comes to hand. I was sentenced to hanging for forgery of royal pardons and release orders, lord Pentre offered a pardon in return for services, paid services.
Rufus, mercenary, well... a bodyguard and executioner. I was sentenced to hanging for beating up abusive drunken guards, lord Pentre offered a pardon in return for services, paid services.
"We are all outlaws, as you can see, and we share a different view of justice than the rest of ordinary citizens, while we normally kill those who hold higher authority and are unfair and abusive like Pentre... we were made an offer that was too good to miss, everyone likes freedom and gold, especially if they come together.
The mission was to capture this runaway woman... but we never agreed we would deliver her to him, not when bandits like Onyx pay twice as much... for slaves that are worth the while, like her" muttered Robin looking down at Taff
"I'm Taff Emris Gelligen, prince Merthyr's royal manservant. His highness and myself were on a hunting trip when we were ambushed by bandits from the Onyx clan. They hold the prince captive and I escaped them to try to seek help..." confessed Taff pursing his lips
“Accidents happen?...” Atoli muttered. Still glaring, she shifted to face Iskra and kicked out at her from where she sat; clearly not caring for the woman’s excuse. “You nearly cut my wing off!” she retorted. This statement was far from the truth. But to the harpy the pain was evidence enough of what she said. Despite cradling her sore arm protectively, she looked ready to brawl.
Atoli glanced away for a moment to look at the others; making quick judgements of each one in turn. When she looked in Kenji’s direction she quickly averted her gaze instinctively. Magical beings like Fae were best not trifled with when possible…
When Quintus spoke, her movements stilled as she watched him address the others (but made sure Iskra was still in her vision). If anyone of this group would be useful to her it would be him. Though she didn’t understand why he would go out of his way to help her, Atoli was grateful for it. It showed on her face by the lack of her usual insubordinate glare.
Atoli glanced away for a moment to look at the others; making quick judgements of each one in turn. When she looked in Kenji’s direction she quickly averted her gaze instinctively. Magical beings like Fae were best not trifled with when possible…
When Quintus spoke, her movements stilled as she watched him address the others (but made sure Iskra was still in her vision). If anyone of this group would be useful to her it would be him. Though she didn’t understand why he would go out of his way to help her, Atoli was grateful for it. It showed on her face by the lack of her usual insubordinate glare.
Iskra glared at Atoli, “You fail to understand position you are in. Zhey plan on handing you to Onyx.” The grin Iskra gave her was horribly wicked, “And I have little patience for creatures such as yourself.”
And then again, came the mention of selling them to Onyx. Iskra growled, her slate eyes narrowing, “YOU DAMNED FOOLS, I AM ONYX. I’M KING, VHY DO YOU ZHINK PENTRE SO DESPERATELY SEARCHES FOR ME? I ESCAPED GALLOWS BARELY TWO DAYS AGO AND IF HE GETS HANDS ON ME AGAIN, HE VILL EXECUTE ME PERSONALLY.” By the end of her sentence her voice cracked, the desperation clear, “God, just ask zhis Knight! My cloak vas left at his home, he and bird-creature repaired most of wounds! Look beneath bandages on my neck, you vill see rope burn, dammit!”
The last thing she needed was her fate resting in the hands of these fools. There was no way in hell she would trust her safety to a bunch of rouges like this. She’d rather her own men, hell, she’d rather be by herself.
And then again, came the mention of selling them to Onyx. Iskra growled, her slate eyes narrowing, “YOU DAMNED FOOLS, I AM ONYX. I’M KING, VHY DO YOU ZHINK PENTRE SO DESPERATELY SEARCHES FOR ME? I ESCAPED GALLOWS BARELY TWO DAYS AGO AND IF HE GETS HANDS ON ME AGAIN, HE VILL EXECUTE ME PERSONALLY.” By the end of her sentence her voice cracked, the desperation clear, “God, just ask zhis Knight! My cloak vas left at his home, he and bird-creature repaired most of wounds! Look beneath bandages on my neck, you vill see rope burn, dammit!”
The last thing she needed was her fate resting in the hands of these fools. There was no way in hell she would trust her safety to a bunch of rouges like this. She’d rather her own men, hell, she’d rather be by herself.
Rufus came over with a grin patting her head as if to appease the exasperated woman.
"Darling anyone who evades sentencing earns themselves a hot pursuit from the lord knight Tron the Terrible and anyone who's near him and not a knight quite often ends up with wounds and rope burns.
We ourselves were taken to be hanged until he changed his mind. Now that doesn't make us Onyx, nor you for the matter... that just makes you an outlaw and a fugitive like the rest here
Besides with that terrible aim of yours I wouldn't even have you as one of us, actually, you're a danger to yourself and to others, so quit dreaming about weapons and bandits and focus on womanly chores, like sewing, cleaning, cooking, sweeping... perhaps some day you might make a good housewife with enough practice." Encouraged and smiled Rufus in a rather patronizing tone
"That throw... it was worse than mediocre, you're not even worth the effort of trying to train you" assured Rufus shaking his head.
"Alexei and I are very well acquainted, I used to work and train with him as one of his lackeys before I joined this group... when they turn up, he will decide if he wants to keep you or not, he always gets first picks among our slaves and captives. If he doesn't want you then I will hand you over to Pentre personally so you best pray they find you amusing enough to wish to keep you" explained Robin the slaver
"Aye aye I suggest we gag her well... Dunsten doesn't like anyone passing themselves for Onyx and impersonating them almost cost me an arm... I won't have her costing us the two" muttered Haldor looking at Iskra meaningfully
"Cordel said we might be accepted as part of the Onyx clan if we give their leader a good enough impression. She's a hard to please woman though... only the best will do" mused Matthew getting all chuffed and cocky at the prospect
"Well surely capturing theirs and Pentre's fugitives is bound to get some recognition... maybe... we shall see" muttered Aynor hesitant
"Are we going to them or are they coming here?" Quizzed Bart
"They'll be here any time now, when I was scouting for Pentre I saw Abram, Lev and Layne approaching from the distance, they are a few hours away at most, though Pentre is a lot closer. He was circling the walls that keep us safe... for now... so we know the lord knight is lurking already" admitted Glendale
"Darling anyone who evades sentencing earns themselves a hot pursuit from the lord knight Tron the Terrible and anyone who's near him and not a knight quite often ends up with wounds and rope burns.
We ourselves were taken to be hanged until he changed his mind. Now that doesn't make us Onyx, nor you for the matter... that just makes you an outlaw and a fugitive like the rest here
Besides with that terrible aim of yours I wouldn't even have you as one of us, actually, you're a danger to yourself and to others, so quit dreaming about weapons and bandits and focus on womanly chores, like sewing, cleaning, cooking, sweeping... perhaps some day you might make a good housewife with enough practice." Encouraged and smiled Rufus in a rather patronizing tone
"That throw... it was worse than mediocre, you're not even worth the effort of trying to train you" assured Rufus shaking his head.
"Alexei and I are very well acquainted, I used to work and train with him as one of his lackeys before I joined this group... when they turn up, he will decide if he wants to keep you or not, he always gets first picks among our slaves and captives. If he doesn't want you then I will hand you over to Pentre personally so you best pray they find you amusing enough to wish to keep you" explained Robin the slaver
"Aye aye I suggest we gag her well... Dunsten doesn't like anyone passing themselves for Onyx and impersonating them almost cost me an arm... I won't have her costing us the two" muttered Haldor looking at Iskra meaningfully
"Cordel said we might be accepted as part of the Onyx clan if we give their leader a good enough impression. She's a hard to please woman though... only the best will do" mused Matthew getting all chuffed and cocky at the prospect
"Well surely capturing theirs and Pentre's fugitives is bound to get some recognition... maybe... we shall see" muttered Aynor hesitant
"Are we going to them or are they coming here?" Quizzed Bart
"They'll be here any time now, when I was scouting for Pentre I saw Abram, Lev and Layne approaching from the distance, they are a few hours away at most, though Pentre is a lot closer. He was circling the walls that keep us safe... for now... so we know the lord knight is lurking already" admitted Glendale
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