Chapter 2-8: An Explosive Entrance And Exit [For A Better Age]

Bjarn


Bjarn gives the Duke a respectful nod, and turns to his men and women. "You heard the man! To the walls, there'll be no time to rest if we're knee-deep in blue."


He leads them to the walls of the city, assessing the damage- and the morale and energy of his raiders- as they walk.
 
Asyk


After taking the time to look over the damage on the walls for himself, Asyk hurries over to the elementals working on the outer walls and fortifications. He quickly gives orders to drop what their doing and focus on the damaged sections of the wall. Once that is done, the Dragon King flies himself over to the section of the wall with the most damage done, thinking that if there is any attempt to enter the city over the next few hours, it would be here that it would happen. He grabs ahold of a runner and sends a message to Bjarn, telling him about the damaged spots in the wall and what was being done about it.


While waiting for the work to get started, he spends his time alternating from watching the treeline for any signs of movemet and doing his best to boster the spirits of the archers with a few well placed words of support, making it clear that he is very proud of how well they did during the raid.
 
Calypso


The Valhal look at each other with worried expressions, but they do as Calypso says. Though a wave a relief does seem to go through them as they learn they are no longer going to have to search for Ofran.


As they approach the dock Calypso see a number of Militia and Valhal warriors, and a small mob waiting as the ship approaches. No doubt a welcoming committee for their traitorous fellows. They give off an atmosphere of tense hatred as the ship starts to pull into the docks.


Asyk


Asyk quickly gets his elementals to work repairing the walls, clearing rubble, and fixing fortifications. They work at a rate that would be impossible for mortal men. Asyk is able to position himself at the most damaged section of the wall where much of the palisade has been blown off or crumbling away, and a significant portion of the top part of the wall is now missing.


Asyk encourages his archers, and a grim determination sets in. They had done damage to the Varajtul, but tonight’s attack proves just how vulnerable the city is, and not only in the direction they expect.


Along the forest edge Asyk sees movement. Much more than had been typical among the Varajtul while they gathered. He can see them gathering, their leaders riling them up, and they start to position themselves beyond the tree line. Asyk plainly sees that the Varajtul intend to attack. It is only a matter of hours now.


Bjarn


Excusing himself from the Duke, Bjarn makes his way to Icehold’s walls. As he marches through the streets with his raiders, people look on with a mixture of quite fear and relief. Bjarn notes that his troop’s morale is good, though sobered due to what has happened in Icehold. A major damper from the high of winning a wholly one sided battle. They are also visibly worn down from a very long day of rowing, battling the sea, landing and launching fleets, and fighting a battle.


Upon getting to the walls he does see that some sections of the wall have been compromised, but Asyk’s elementals are on the job, and are quickly working to repair the damage. Bjarn is approached by General Rivers, and a handful of militia and officers. He looks unhappy as he speaks to Bjarn. “Hearthwarden, it is good to see you are back. Unfortunately, all I can give you is bad news. I sent some scouts out beyond the wall after we got things under control here. From the reports I am getting, it seems that the Varajtul are going to take this opportunity to attack. They are riled up, and are organizing their numbers. My guess is that they will be ready to attack around dawn. We are lucky that the Varajtul are not quick at organizing themselves, otherwise they may have gone for a quick night attack to try and secure one of the gate or a section of the walls.â€
 
Bjarn


Bjarn nods gravely. "I bring better news- we destroyed a Varajtul raiding force that were planning to attack in boats. Not a single man or woman among us a lost, and we've gained breathing space-" then he grins, somewhat (but not entirely) subdued, at Volund- "and another Exalt among our numbers."


OOC
What time is it at the moment? I don't want to start on orders until I know how much time there is for rest and stuff.


EDIT:


Bjarn looks proudly over his warriors, still on their feet after a long day, and says, "Get some rest, you've earned it- but I want you back here and ready well before dawn. Don't be late, or we'll have to start without you."


The orders given, he walks among the disintegrating ranks, giving a word of encouragement here, an admonishment there, and asking- not ordering- a few of the hardier, less exhausted-looking among them to stay up and keep watch over the walls in case of unexpected attack.


With a sigh, he resigns himself to a near-sleepless night keeping morale up among the guards, walking the walls- and ready to do something incredible audacious (and potentially stupid) should a surprise attack come.
 
Narrante


The ninja was hard to read as she listened, but before she could answer the ship lurched and began a lengthy about-face. This caught her attention, and she had to guess it was the work of her companion. "Take their weapons and stay together," she ordered bluntly, directing them towards the gear of the slain Valhals. She didn't know these people well enough to tell them apart easily from the traitors, except that these ones had the markings of their restraint still fresh on them. "I am with Calypso, and we are all returning to Icehold."


With that, she strode from the hold and back to the deck, finding Calypso with the traitors apparently under her thumb. From talking with her, she learned the gist of what they were looking for, a bit of disappointment showing in Narrante that she hadn't gotten to face Ofran. She said nothing of it, however, instead bringing Calypso's attention to Irkuk Woodcut and his compatriots, trusting that she could later sort out murderer from captive.


It was to Narrante's quiet relief that the fires seemed to have been tamed. The city was working desperately to organize and fortify; she hadn't been able to appreciate the damage done until she saw the city from her perch on the main mast.
 
Calypso


Over the journey back, Calypso's anima slowly begins to fade, dimming down considerably. She keeps her face towards the docks, chewing faintly on her lip. She can see the torches and pitchforks on the docks long before they arrive.


As the ship pulls in close, Calypso places herself between the mob and the crew.


"What can I do for you?" She asks simply.
 
Asyk


As he is walking the walls, Asyk sees Bjarn examining the extent of the damage. "I have started repair work, but I don't know if the walls will be sealed before the Varatjul attack. I can see activity in the treeline, and with the ass-kicking we gave them earlier, they are going to have an axe to grind with us." He plants his hands on his hips and looks out into the darkness. "Don't worry though, we'll be ready to meet the bastards when they come."
 
Asyk & Bjarn


“That is good to hear,†says General Rivers solemnly. “Hopefully that will give everyone a little more confidence in the coming battle once news gets around. I’ll work at getting the troops as ready as I can. It’s going to be a long night and day.â€


The work of Asyk’s elementals goes quickly, working at the same speed at which they built the temples.


The soldiers of Icehold follow Bjarn and Asyk’s orders, taking shifts, and being wary of a surprise attack during the night.


Calypso & Narrante


The freed hostages take the weapons away from their traitorous brethren, dead or alive, and go about getting the ship properly under way to get back to the harbor.


When they get into the harbor, the mob calls for the traitors blood. Many had died, homes burned, family murdered.


OOC
Bit brief tonight, beat after a long day. I plan on working on and posting the thread for the big battle sometime Sunday if I can. [OOC]
 
Keikan


Upon seeing the state of the wall and hearing the news of the incoming Varatjul attack soon, Keikan is struck with an idea.


"Bjarn, I will take my leave of you. I shall spend the night directing the city in prayer. I encourage you and your warriors to join in, if you hear." Keikan says.


"Maiden, I have yet another request of you. Could you direct me to a temple of yours, and find Glorious Blessed Horizon and bring him to me? I intend to hold a night-long vigil, but I require some supplies and the assistance of your acolytes." Keikan says to Maiden as they descend the wall.


(assuming Maiden agrees)


Keikan then heads to Contractor's house and finds him resting in a chair with many bandages on him.


"Whoa. This business that happen here caught you up in it too I take it?"


"If I had known of your injuries, I would've come to see you for that reason. Unfortunately, that is not the case. I have come here on business. The wall is breached, and those with the fighty know-how think the Varatjul are going to use this opportunity to attack no matter how fast Asyk's elementals can patch it up. While they prepare our defenses, I am making preparations for a vigil. For this, I need candles. Enough to give one to every man, woman, and child in Icehold if need be. There are few things I can offer in recompense save that this should ensure divine blessings and help ensure that we don't all die in the coming battle, and possibly favor... but I need these candles, as soon as possible."


(Assuming his Check gets him the candles)


"I thank you very much. I have other such preparations to make."


At that, Keikan leaves Contractor's home and heads to Maiden's temple. Heading inside, he sees the various acolytes praying. He immediately heads where he will be seen, flares his anima, and announces: "On your Feet, oh acolytes of Enlightened Emerald Maiden. We have work to do. Bring thuribles and incense. We will be holding a vigil all night for the benefit of Icehold, and we will stand with our bretheren dedicated to Glorious Blessed Horizon and the Unconquered Sun!"


Taking those who follow him with him, Keikan repeats the same phrase in the temples of Horizon and the Unconquered Sun. Having gathered his congregation, Keikan went to the warehouse Contractor mentioned, and, seeing the candles, raises his arms and begins reciting:


"Sol Invictus who lights our way, Enlightened Emerald Maiden and Glorious Blessed Horizon who guide the unified Icehold and Valhal Peoples, we ask that you bless these candles, that their light may pierce the darkness around us. May their smoke guide our prayers to Heaven."


Grabbing a few knapsacks, he divides up the candles as evenly as he can amongst those following him. Taking a thurible and a candle for himself, Keikan lights a cigarette, inhales deeply, and then takes his cigarette lighter to the thurible and charcoal. Finishing his cigarette as the smoke begins to rise from the thurible, Keikan says to the acolytes: "Distribute a lit candle to any you see. Follow my lead, but I may ask for you to begin your particular prayers that you know. We march through the streets of Icehold tonight, encouraging all who hear us to join us in prayer, for tomorrow, the Varatjul seek to do battle. May our voices be heard in Heaven, for Icehold!"


Taking his lighter, he ignites his candle, and uses it to ignite the candles belonging to the next two acolytes nearest him. Candlelight begins to illuminate the streets as the fire is passed along to all of his followers. As they light their thuribles, Keikan turns and begins to slowly march down the Icehold streets, chanting and praying the following:


"People of Icehold! Today has been a trying day, with unrest and violence attempting to strike at the very heart of our city! You all must know that the wall has been breached! Know that the Varatjul savages are gathering their strength even now as I speak to attack this city in force!" Keikan shouts, with images of the broken wall and hordes of shadowy figures gathering at the trees materializing around him as he walks.


"Yet I must remind you, oh brave inhabitants of Icehold, that earlier today our brave soldiers sailed up the coast and faced the Varatjul cannibals in battle!" Keikan says, with images of Icehold warriors locked in battle against the Varatjul appearing around him.


"AND WE HAVE TRIUMPHED!" Keikan shouts with much gusto as images of Icehold warriors standing over the fallen bodies of the Varatjul cannibals unharmed appear around him. "We have taken the life of one of the hated enemy's most ruthless commanders and committed his soul to Lethe with nary a scratch to our forces!"


"Know that even though we may be outnumbered by these blue-furred savages, that the hordes of Varatjul are nonetheless outmatched by the superior might of Icehold!" Keikan continues to shout as images of a solid line of Icehold troops, Militia, Valhal, Fangs of the Gale, all standing side by side on the field of battle appear around him.


"That is not to say however, that the battle that now faces us will be an easy one! We must all do our part to assist our brave troops, Icehold Militia AND Valhal, as they fight to preserve our homes! I humbly beseech you, all of you, to join me in this night of prayer for our city! I also ask all of you who have it to spare, to gather some of your finest foods and drink, and provide the soldiers nearest you with a good hearty meal! For some of these brave souls, it may be their last! For this is the very least we can do to thank those who fight for us! May they know that all of Icehold stands behind them as they slay the Varatjul menace!"


"Take this candle, and treasure its flame, for it is the flame to represent our bravery and courage! May its light pierce the darkness all around us, and guide our path." Keikan says, as the acolytes sound off an affirmative.


"We begin by offering our thanks to Sol Invictus who lights our path, to Mars, and to Nasamara and Voharun for our victory over the Varatjul earlier today. May we continue to glorify all of you with the battle about to take place! Amen."


"Amen." the acolytes (and everyone else who decides to join in) echo.


"We give our thanks to Luna, for gracing us with one of her precious Chosen on the battlefield earlier today! May his works glorify you."


"Amen"


"We give our thanks to Enlightened Emerald Maiden, for entering the field of battle and greatly assisting us in every possible regard. May she be praised a thousand times."


"Amen"


"Sol Invictus, you are the highest of all holies, may you smile upon us, your Chosen, who have gathered here in Icehold. We beseech that you bless Bjarn Stormtooth, Hearthwarden, who leads our armies in this hour. We ask that you bless Narrante, the warrior who fights for us in your shadows. We ask that you bless Anoke Jandro, and Jorik Bjornsson, Protectors of Icehold, who ensure that this city operates in a fashion that glorifies You. We ask that you bless Keikan Tekken Chikka, your lowly servant, and Asyk Vaysel, the Dragon King who fights for Icehold. We ask that you bless Volund Bearskin, that his recent Exaltation be fortuitous to our battle. And finally we ask that you bless Duke Walks Vendel, that he may have the Compassion, Conviction, Temperance, and Valor to govern our city wisely."


"Amen"


"Nasamara, the Falcon of Glory, and Voharun, the Battle Crow, we ask that you lend us your blessing for this battle. May we have the knowledge needed to make the decisions necessary to bring a victory to glorify you."


"Amen"


"Enlightened Emerald Maiden and Glorious Blessed Horizon, Twin gods of the unified peoples of Icehold and the Valhal, and the Fifth Arm, we ask that you once again lend us both your personal pussiance, and your blessing upon our city's defenders. May our defenders be tireless for our battle, and may Maiden especially be tolerant of any harebrained schemes a certain Solar Exalt may come up with and wind up dragging her into."


"Amen"


Keikan then breaks into hymns honoring the Sun and various gods mentioned, and continues to repeat what he has said continuously as he walks around the City throughout the night.


-------------------------------------------------------------------------


Whoo boy. Here's the gist of what Keikan is trying to do:


First bit: Get Contractor to provide a -ton- of candles.


Second bit: Gather the acolytes from every temple as well as incense and thuribles


Third bit: Bless candles, Slowly walk through Icehold all night chanting prayers and singing songs.


Fourth bit: Convince city to throw a feast for the soldiers as a morale boost.


Fifth bit: Secure blessings from gods (especially Maiden and Horizon, as they can prevent the effects of Alcohol from taking hold in the troops, and grant the benefits of well-restedness even if the soldiers were up all night.)

Roll to persuade Contractor to provide candles:


Rolling Charisma+Presence.


7d10 → [8,1,10,6,7,8,1] = (41)


http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2775022/


5 Successes


Expending 10m 1WP peripheral to activate Gathering the Congregation. Rolling Charisma+Performance


6d10 → [4,3,10,4,8,10] = (39)


http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2775053/


5 Successes


Roll to bless the candles: Charisma+Performance


6d10 → [1,8,5,6,10,10] = (40)


http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2775069/


5 Successes


Expending 1m every so often on Booming Voice Technique so that Keikan is heard by everyone within 50 yards as he passes by.


Rolling Charisma+Performance to see if he can convince the general populace to throw a feast for the soldiers before battle.


Roll to propose a feast for the troops:


6d10 → [5,10,3,10,4,5] = (37)


http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2775136/


4 Successes


And 3 Prayer rolls to get appropriate blessings as mentioned.


First prayer to UC: Expending 6m Peripheral on 2nd Performance Excellency for 3 extra successes.


6d10 → [6,10,9,10,7,4] = (46)


http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2775137/


9 Successes


Second prayer to Twin Gods of War: Same, 6m Peripheral on 2nd Performance Excellency.


6d10 → [6,8,3,9,10,5] = (41)


http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2775138/


7 Successes


Third prayer to Maiden and Horizon: Same again, 6m Peripheral on 2nd Performance Excellency.


6d10 → [10,8,6,4,10,7] = (45)


http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2775139/
 
Asyk


He hears about the prayer vigil being held, and decides that as the only representitive for his people, it would be a good thing to beseech the gods on their behalf. Flying in slowly, he sees a spot at the head of the column for him to land and join his voice to those already in prayer. He bows to Keikan and the gods and takes his candle and holds it high to join the light of the others that were here before him. He begins to sing a hymn that he learned in his youth; a song many centuries lost but one still fresh in his mind. Asyk feels a sudden upswelling of faith and confidence as the blessings of the gods fill his heart, and a new understanding of the flows of Essence around him is awakened. My father talked about this before, but I never understood what he meant. Everying is so much clearer now! It must be my new focus. If I let Icehold fall, the chance of returning my people from savagery will slip away like wind beneith the wing. Icehold will stand. It must!
 
Bjarn


The Hearthwarden, too, is present- casting aside for a moment his position, he stands among the people, feeling the currents of their faith, hope and fear. He murmurs a quiet prayer to no-one in particular-


"Give them the strength to follow me where I must lead them."


In his mind is no doubt that he can defeat the Varajtul- but at what cost?


And so he stays, and watches, and prays- and though the night is dark, the constellations of glittering lights, of people willing to give up everything for their families, their homes, their lives, are an echo of the light of dawn to come.
 
Keikan


“Not a problem,†confirms Maiden. “Horizon and I’s new temple is the giant pyramid over there,†she says as she points her wing. “They should be able to help you with what you need. I can find Horizon easily. I can smell trouble a mile away, and my brother reeks of it.â€


---------------------------------------


Contractor looks up at Keikan without his usual smile and boastfulness. “I’m afraid I have not had the best of days,†says Contractor sadly. “What with my person being assaulted, my property burned down, my employees murdered in cold blood.


Contractor leans back as he listens to what Keikan has to say. “Very well, I think I might have enough candles for your purpose. I’ve lost so much this day that a bunch of candles aren’t going to hurt me much more,†he says sadly. “Luckily the warehouse with basic supplies was largely left alone, or at least they didn’t get to them. Those barbarians seemed more concerned with destroying the granaries. Still, you’re lucky break. I’ve seen enough of this city burn, and its people killed. I hope that this will help a little.â€


--------------------------------------------


As Keikan begins to make his procession through the city a silver and golden crow fly down over the crowd, gold and silver sparkles trailing them as they descend. The Twin Gods of the Fifth Arm pass Aysk, and they come to rest on Keikan’s shoulders.


“For what it’s worth, we offer our blessings,†says the silver raven Maiden as she turns her head towards Keikan.


“Whatever comes, we are with you,†affirms the golden Horizon. He leans forward to see Maiden better. “See, he ain’t all bad.†Maiden huffs, and Horizon turns back to Keikan. “Don’t worry about all her flustering. She is good at putting up with those with harebrained schemes.â€


“I don’t know why I bother at times,†says Maiden annoyedly.


“Because life would be too boring without men like us dear sister,†says Horizon cheerfully. “Besides, you would get ancy if all you did was sit around and do nothing.â€


“Oh, shut up already, we’ve got a prayer march to do, and its hard enough to concentrate with us jabbing,†remarks Maiden.


-----------------------------------


Asyk


While marching, Asyk feels a hand on his shoulder from behind. He turns to see Volund Bearskin behind him. The old warrior smiles warmly. “You seem like a being with a great deal of weight on his shoulders. And that of a man who is remembering everything he has lost over the years. Otherwise you wouldn’t have the weight in your singing you do.†Volund frowns sadly. “That song…it brings back memories…sad ones. Like something great has been lost.â€


------------------------------------


Bjarn


“You know, people might talk if they noticed you in the general crowd,†Bjarn hears from a woman right next to him. Bjarn sees that Sharp Snowflake is right next to him. “You are lucky no one would suspect you would do something like this. Plus many still do not know your face.â€


She signs and closes her eyes as she collects herself. “I would like to thank you, personally, for what you have done for my people, for everyone. I do not like to think what would likely have happened to us if you and your friends had not shown up. Many more people than just my mother would have ended up dead on those fields, and Icehold likely would not have stood a chance in this battle to come. Still, I wish you would have had your way with Ofran and have sought justice with him rather than allowing Anoke to play with him. Now he is loose once again. Bent on doing gods knows what now.â€


“But still, more have been helped by you then hurt I think,†says Snowflake sadly. “What are your plans Bjarn? What has brought you to this people, to my people? What drives you?â€


------------------------------------


After the festivities of the night the people of Icehold gladly give good to their defenders, and there is much celebration. The pall cast over them by the Varajtul the horrors of the night seem to fade away. In the morning Icehold’s soldiers are ready for what is to come.
 
Bjarn


The Hearthwarden's smile is oddly sad as he replies, "What drives me? My people. Perhaps that'll include you and yours in years to come, but for now, it's the men and women who followed me into exile. I came to your aid because you were in need- and so people will say in years to come, 'They made a difference.'


"We were never going to go home- they'd never accept what I've become, not with my cousin around stirring things up, but we needed a home nonetheless. A home and a legacy. That's what I'm building here.


"I don't want to regret that they followed me."


Head bowed, a note of anger comes into his voice. "But it looks like we may be returning after all. I'm committed to you, to Icehold- but it's no good for anyone for the Skandir to be under the heel of the dead, and whatever I have done since, I am still the son of Chieftain Ragnar Ironthew. You ask about my plans? A chieftain's first duty, his first thought, must always be for his people- and though for years I've had only my twenty, still I am bonded by honour and blood to my home."
 
Anoké Jandro


Anoké sneers. "And Calypso supports the Duke," he snarls at the cultist. "How would you have supposed to deal with that?" Out of the corner of his eye, he suddenly noticed the presence of Graven and Chain. He pauses for a moment, then gives the cultist a final shove and lets go. As he sheathes his dagger, he glares down at the man.


"Your lions could not defend you, and you cannot defend yourselves," he says, gesturing at the downed men. "I admire your unthinking dedication, even if you didn't have the sense to pick the right side. I could've used men with your loyalty, once you were properly trained. As it is now, though..." He rubs his chin thoughtfully. "Your lives are forfeit. Now ask yourself, what fate would your 'masters' grant you for your failure? Before your execution, you and your cohorts will have a moment to speak your piece--and decide whether you desire the punishment the mad ones would give, or the painless and peaceful end of the sun's mercy." Turning from the man, Anoké starts off down the hallway.


"Vanessa, Jorik, we need to go onto the streets and help to put this in order. If nothing else we'll be reassuring influences in the wake of this stupidity. Above everything we need to make sure Cen is alright--our immediate future depends on him being around to fulfill his end of our bargain."


Anoké pulls Torchward up from the floor, wincing slightly at the pasty mess covering the front tire. Steadying it with a hand, he begins to head outside. He stops before Graven and Chain, assessing the large, peculiarly-helpful strange.


"I am Anoké Jandro, the Fulcrum's Pivot," Anoké introduces himself to Chain. "I'm not sure who you are, but you offered your help freely and performed well. Now I'm sure there's a lot of questions for us to ask each other, so why don't you come with me. We have need of men like you, and I may have a job in mind." He nods towards Graven. "And an excellent job to you too.


"Fortunately, it seems like the worst is over. Our God Horizon is interrogating another attacker in that room there. When he's done, kindly tell him that they only spoke of assassinating the Duke at the demand of the lions, and see to it that all of the loosely-dressed fellows on the ground there are incarcerated. Please don't damage them any more than we already have."
 
Chain shrugs at the Exalt,


"Why be strong to do nothing? No need to mention."


Chain turns to Graven,


"We can meet in the morning shift for the militia duty."


then turns back to Anoké,


"Take the lead way, Anoké it was? I am called Chain."
 
Bjarn


Snowflake smiles at Bjarn. “I see that you are a dedicated man. I can assure you, you and your Fangs have made a difference. If you manage to defeat the Varajtul you will likely be legends among my people. If I have anything to say, you and your people will always be welcome here.†She places a comforting hand on Bjarn’s shoulder. “I hope that one day your people and mine can be one. If what Maiden says is true, and I have never known her to lie, then we have a great deal in common. For the debt you have given to me and my people for your help, I will do everything I can to help you with the Skandir. Though my help pales compared to what you can do, I will do what I can.â€


Anoke & Chain


The man looks at Anoke in pain from his rough handling. “It matters all in the end. We all end up in the same place after we die. All back through the reincarnation cycle, as the great creators intended. Any defeat you inflict on the Lions That Walk The World is temporary. You will see.†The man looks down defeated at guards come to drag the man away, and deal with the mess in the hallway.


Vanessa walks with Anoke a bit as he makes his way to Torchwood. “I can’t believe this idiocy is happening right before a big battle. Even if their plan hadn’t been put together like a poorly made house of sticks, there would still have been the problem of the Varajtul attacking. And the disorganization that would have cause…aarrggghhhh! Forget it, it’s clear the lot of them are mad, and there is no point going over the ravings of madmen.†She stops as Anoke gets on his bike. “I’ll do what I can to get this situation under control. Maybe a show of force will help people calm their nerves. Not perfect, but it will at least help people if they see soldiers on the street calmly patrolling, and explaining the situation to citizens. Later love,†she says as she walks off into the streets.


“O-O-Of course sir,†says Graven when Anoke acknowledges him. “I’ll tell Glorious Blessed Horizon when he is done.†There is a high pitched as they can all see one of the cultists dropping from the second story that leads to the Duke study. He lands with a thud, and screams in pain as he holds his legs in pain. He starts to pitifully try and crawl away when Horizon jumps down from the window, and lands next to the man.


“Now look what you did you clumsy fool,†reprimands Horizon as he slowly walks towards the man. “If you wanted to kill yourself you should have tried to land head first, you can’t build up enough speed to kill yourself if you land feet first. And if you wanted to get away, you should have tried to land and roll properly to break the fall. And now here you are, two broken legs. I haven’t even gotten through the second stage of tortures I plan for a certain traitor, and you’re already wimping out on me. I thought die hard cultists would be made of sterner stuff.â€


Horizon picks him up by the scruff of the neck. “Fine! If you don’t want to listen to the tortures I have thought over for centuries for a special someone, then maybe we can talk about what you and you stupid buddies were up too. Come on.â€


As Horizon starts to fly back into the building the man screams. “Somebody! Please help me! He’s mad! MMMMAAAADDDDD!†His screams are muffled as he disappears into the palace with Horizon.


“Ummmmm,†says Graven awkwardly. He scratches the back of his head as he seems to think over going back into the Duke’s palace. “He seems to be well on his way doing…whatever he is doing.†He turns back to Chain and Anoke. “We will meet aain Chain. Later then, hope the rest of your night goes better. I have a feeling I’m going to have a long one.â€
 
Bjarn acknowledges Snowflake with a smile. "I haven't felt this welcome in a long time, not outside my warriors- for that you have my thanks."


He lapses into a comfortable silence, content to watch the subtle movements of the points of light that are the people pledged to serve this city through him. Tomorrow is a day of battle, but now is the calm before the storm- a moment of serenity.
 
Narrante


The girl slipped away from the boat and the docks without the notice of Calypso or anyone in the mob. For the time being, she decided against wandering the rooftops, and moved through the city with her cloak drawn to her, weaving her way through crowds, around patrolling guards, and away from heaps of bodies and wreckage. The more she saw of Icehold, the more she felt out of place there. The city had protectors, and saviors, and heroes to glorify. Bjarn would lead them into victory, Keikan would earn the favor of the gods, and Calypso use her strange power to shape it. What did Icehold need of a shadowy murderer?


She could have escaped into the night; she knew she could evade the cannibals, however numerous they were, and follow a road until she came upon a merchant train or another town. It would be easy to pilfer some supplies to keep her fed on her way. She had nothing to offer the place except a sword arm.


As Narrante mulled over this, however, she found she had come to a damaged section of the wall. It had been repaired quickly by elementals, but the place where it had been blown apart was obvious even in the dark. Guards patrolled at the top, or stood watching the teeming forest, from which could be faintly heard the howls of the cannibals. With her ear to the city and the forest, she climbed a set of stairs to the wall and looked down at Icehold. The wall was not high enough to let her see everything, but her keen eye saw much. Moving through the streets was the procession led by Keikan, offering hope to the people and calling for blessings from the gods. At another part of the wall was the creature Asyk, overseeing repairs. And in the other direction on the wall, she picked out the familiar golden glimmer of Bjarn's axe.


Icehold needs them. Maybe the world does. Heroes, those that can set the world right around them. Icehold doesn't need an assassin, but it needs every strong arm it can get. And I have a strength to match theirs, she knew, her thoughts of fleeing evaporating into the night. Narrante stood for a few moments more, considering what she could do, before she started to walk down the wall.


It was a few minutes before she arrived, but it seemed time was not much of an issue yet. Drawing back the hood of her cloak, she came to Bjarn Stormtooth, the noble warrior of the North who had turned down a crown in favor of his axe. In the torch light on the wall, Narrante's brown eyes glittered.


"Master Stormtooth?" she addressed in Skytongue, her accent still thick in each word. "I ask that you allow me to fight under you when the cannibals come," she murmured, her voice soft but her tone determined. "I know nothing of war, but if you were to direct me somewhere I could be useful, I wish to aid Icehold in its time of trial."


To illustrate her request and give him an idea of just what she was capable of, she drew back her bangs and revealed the golden mark upon her brow. An empty ring glittering in the torchlight, not yet faded from her actions upon the ship. The time for hiding her nature had passed.
 
Bjarn


Bjarn's surprise is evident as the rather shy girl he met some time before is revealed as yet another Solar- but his voice is steady, saying, "I would be honoured, Narrante. I'm sure I can find a place for your skills- if our enemies will find you as unexpected a revelation as I did."


He offers her his hand, saying, "Please, call me Bjarn- and tell me, what brings you to this decision?"
 
Bjarn & Narrante


Snowflake looks surprised at the new Solar among their midsts. “Where are all of you coming from,†asks Snowflake. “In the past maybe one of two of you would show up in the region every decade, but now you just seem to be piling up in Icehold. Were there signs pointing ‘Solars go here’ put up everywhere?â€


Anoke & Chain


The two travel the confused streets of Icehold to arrive at the dock district. After looking around for awhile and asking for directions, the two are able to find Contractor. Looking the worse for wear bandaged up and covered in soot. “Anoke, its good to see you are save. I’m afraid it has been awful here! So many of the warehouses were burned down by those maniacs! It’s terrible, a disaster! I’ll be lucky if I’m not ruinedthis day.â€
 
Narrante


Narrante peered down at Bjarn's hand as if she had no idea what to do for a moment, but she reached out and shook with her own smaller one, seemingly encouraged. She had to think for an answer to his question, though, considering as she withdrew her slim hand.


"I suppose I've grown tired of running away. Now that I see something worth staying around for, at least," she murmured, looking back out over Icehold. "I am not sure whether I belong here, but I feel needed." Despite the situation, she had a small smile on her face, and it spread at Snowflake's comment.


"Thank you. I will return in the morning, Bjarn," the girl assured, needing to find a place to rest before the battle. Tired and worn, she retreated from the wall and into the night, her fate tied, for now, with that of Icehold.
 
Anoké Jandro


"Chain?" Anoké tries out the name. He assess the stranger again, the large frame and the odd accent. "An runaway slave? Well, no matter. I'd say you more than bought your freedom tonight. Now let me give you a summary of the situation..."


* * *


Encountering Cen, Anoké just grins and shakes his head. "Friend," he begins, carefully patting the Guildsman on the back, "you're far from ruined. Remember, our deal is with you. If the Guild wants to exploit the very generous opportunities here, they'll need you to organize it. Not that I wouldn't be open to negotiating with others, but your superiors don't need to know that, do they?" He winks.


"For the time being, seek refuge in the palace. We," he gestures towards the others, "need to finish things here."


~ ~ ~


So unless anyone wants to keep bantering, I'd say there's not much else of importance for Ann to say or do.
 
Chain listens intently, the tale affirming his suspicions,


"That is great impressive. I am great happy to be a part of noble cause and am looking forward to helping. Now, no meaning of rudeness, but I have signed myself for militia and must prepare for morning. I hope to see you again, Anoké."


As Chain walks away, he feels better about his self-prescribed mission than ever, confirmed in the fact that this is a righteous cause, and a perfect pairing for his own. But then he remembers his other contract, and its implications. As it is no longer necessary, a great weight is lifted from his mind, but a different set of problems lies ahead.


_______


yeah, I know, kinda bland, but I wanted to tie up the conversation on both ends.
 
Bjarn & Narrante


“Wait,†says Snowflake as she puts a hand on Narrante’s shoulder to stop her. “If you do not know where you can be of the most use I would be willing to help. If the others are any indication, then you must have great skills, and I doubt you carry that blade sheerly for decorative reasons like some dressed up flop of a noble. And I always need skilled blades among those who fight at my side.â€


Snowflake jabs Narrante in the side of the arm with a punch and laughs. “But first it looks like we are going to need to get some fire into you, and toughen you up a bit. You are much too timid if you expect to survive even in a soft place like Icehold. You will wilt like a flower at first frost if you don’t have a little more fortitude. You need to learn to stop running, and make a stand for yourself! Besides there are only so many places to run when the winter snows shut you in tight, the Varajtul and Fair Folk run fast, the dead never tired, and in the end you only die exhausted.â€


Snowflake waves for Narrante to follow. “I don’t know about where you come from, but not having a place in the world is a sad thing here in the North,†says Snowflake as she smiles sadly. “Among my people we believe in the bonds of family, friends, comrades in arms, clan, and kin. People to care for you, to guard, to be merry with, and to share both the good and bad moments of life.†Snowflake waves for Narrante to follow. “Please, come to my people’s camp in the barracks. We will show you what it is like to be a woman of the North, how to be strong and stand up for yourself. Besides, if you should die tomorrow you wouldn’t want to die unknown, without any comrades, friends, or family to morn for you do you? Everyone dies eventually, but the saddest fate is to be forgotten. Especially if you are forgotten by those you died for.â€


Anoke & Chain


Contractor signs and looks at the ground. “Ah I suppose I’m just being despondent. Nearly dying and seeing so much pointless destruction reminds me of my own mortality, and how the short sightedness and idiocy of a few can ruin things for everyone. I’m certainly not going to let them win, and be put down by just one disaster. I’ve come back from worse in the end.â€


“The palace would seem like an odd place to hide given one of the explosions happened there, but I figure you or your friends have probably already cleared out the trouble there,†Constrator rubs his eyes from exhaustion. “I am much too old to be having my life put on the line. So I’ll head over there as soon as I finish up here. Is earning some jade strips really that wrong?â€


OOC
I’m pretty much good on the Chain and Anoke end of things here. [OOC]
 
Bjarn raises a hand as Snowflake begins to leave. "I hope you find what you're looking for, Narrante. The Valhals are a fine people, so you're in safe hands. I'm going to stay here- chieftainship calls, and the guards might need me."
 
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