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Post by Alexodia on Dec 1, 2016 21:38:28 GMT
Keeping her eyes locked on Sigeberht as he outlined his plan, she kept her expression deliberately inscrutable as she took in his plan; hearing his tactics and his reasoning was somewhat of a relaxing break from riding a horse for days. The situation tended to negate the feelings she would take in that, though, and she could tell that every person in the tent was all too aware of her impassive silence. She had more than a few ideas about Sigeberht's plan, more so his reasoning regarding the peasants, but she doubted that he could have come up with a better plan in the time frame that he was given. Even she wasn't sure whether that was a compliment or an insult. Watching him sit down across from her once more and fade into silence after requesting her input despite the obvious reservations he had about giving her an avenue to insult him once more, she neglected to speak for a few seconds before taking a deep, elongated breath in and out through her nose, her expression pensive as she fixed him with an unblinking stare.
"Well, it's nothing I didn't expect." She began, her voice notably quieter than usual, her tone contemplative. "It's you all over. That is to say, it's aggressive, reckless and more than a little bit stupid, but with the men and the time, it's somewhat passable. Of course, I'm assuming that you aren't just going to hack at them like a butcher with meat, although that's me being optimistic." She continued, her voice still disturbingly calm before she glanced over at the map where she was sitting and her eyes narrowed somewhat. "It says here that the main supply lines of ours are on the opposite side of the civilian farms and settlements, with the defensive position sandwiched in the middle? I won't ask why that's the case, but if they're being attacked, it may provide us with an opportunity to surprise them, as you say. It's off the top of my head, but if you send men to the supply lines under the guise of reclaiming the supply lines, the Good Wolf will be forced to divert men to deal with the threat lest he lose the supply lines to us again. As that happens, we may be able to attack in oblique order on the opposite side near the farms and the settlements; if we divert enough resources to that, we can, as you say, solve our supply problem and put the Good Wolf on the defensive at the same time. Stocking up there and heading forwards will have bypassed the defensive position, and they'll either have to spend precious time reinforcing their defense line, or find a new defensive position altogether. That could give us the advantage; especially if we send for men along the settlement line as we do so. Increases our chance of succeeding, and gives us more men to either press forward or route around the original supply line; it'd be a war on two fronts then." She continued, her eyes glazing over somewhat before she snapped herself back into reality and fixing Sigeberht and the silent Ekenbrand with a patronising glare.
"Of course, this is dependent on more than a few variables; most of this is conjecture at this point, but when it comes to the morale of the masses, what do you expect to happen, hmm? That we'll march in, and take all of their supplies and potentially ruin their lives for the foreseeable future, and so they'll turn around and blame the side that never touched them to start with?" She asked rhetorically, her eyes turning condescending in slight disbelief. "You're exactly right; rebellions do hinge on their leaders. Rather poetic, all in all. But I have a better saying, one that I believe is much more accurate; people's perception of an army depends on the actions of that army. If we go in, swords drawn, and use all of their provisions, you believe that they'll despise the Good Wolf for not coming to their aid? Or do you think they'll despise us, the people meant to protect them from harm, for ransacking their homes and destroying their livelihood, hmm? Our enemies are in the fortunate position of not being held to a standard by the rest of the world as we are; if we ransack our own colonies, people will believe that we think nothing of the people meant to be under our protection from threats such as a rebellion; they tend not to think of the greater good when they're not involved. I'm sure you see your honour and duty to your land as an admirable trait, but it does make you ever so thoughtless at times." She continued, her acerbic tone cutting across the tent once more, before she once again adopted an expression of airy boredom.
"Now, I'm not against this plan, but thinking that they won't turn on us is idiotic; that's why we may need more troops as soon as possible. Personally, I don't care what we have to do in order to win, but you do, and the rest of the land will, so we have to take into consideration. We could use up the least amount of their supplies we can stand, and quickly capitalise on the upper hand to win the battle; a promise of compensation would probably be enough to tide them over for a while. Although this is assuming that the Good Wolf will fall for Plan A; I don't doubt he will, but it's always good to be prepared whatever the case. Perhaps the sandwiching part should be left off until we have enough men, but again; this is your battle and all of these are from very little knowledge of the situation. All of these are simply suggestions. This is an admittedly difficult situation, after all. One that I hope you end up having the skill to deal with." She finished, continuing to fix the two men with a now inscrutable gaze as they sat wordlessly across from her, the tent silent. Sighing once more after a few seconds of silence, she opened her mouth to sarcastically ask the Generals across from him if they were capable of responding, until elevated voices and chatterings of perplexity from outside the encampment behind her cut her off. Furrowing her eyebrows in confusion as she saw movement out of the corner of her eye, she looked over her right shoulder to see Clea's blonde hair disappearing out of the tent, having swiftly exited the camp to see what the growing commotion was about.
"Wonderful." Saira commented sardonically to the otherwise silent tent, rolling her eyes before fixing them back onto the Generals, both of whom had a confused expression due to the noise outside. "It seems that we have another problem to deal with. One really must wonder how you ever became a General, sometimes." She spoke aloud in an airy tone, pointedly ignoring the brutal nature of what she just said as Clea stuck her head into the tent with a guarded expression.
"I'm sorry, but..." Clea began, her tone hesitant yet calm through practice and nerves of steel as she looked past her Lady to fix her gaze on the General sitting opposite her. "...General Sigeberht, it appears you have a rather important messenger here for you."
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Post by Raz on Dec 1, 2016 22:22:58 GMT
The messenger that stepped through the tent flap was but a lad not old enough to even begin growing chin hair. His eyes moved in awe as he looked from the elves to the generals. It was clear he'd never seen people such as these before. That is, until he laid eyes on Sigeberht. He went from nervous curiosity to palpable fear as he stared at one of the beasts of old. The same breed of monster that have terrorized his people for generations. Catching a scathing stare from the she elf he dipped his head and holds out his satchel.
"My Lords and Ladies, I come bearing bad news." He licked his lips as trying to gauge how they'd take this. As though he were afraid they'd take their anger out on him. "Govenor Hitchens and the division he was bringing to reinforce the forces here have been slain." He dared look up at Sigeberht,"By your people sir. However," He is quick to add,"Lord Jaeger Von Richthofen is asking if you require his assistance in this battle. He has close to three thousand men ready to March if you wish it."
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Post by Serph on Dec 1, 2016 23:06:34 GMT
“Did you remember to thank your knight in shining armor with a kiss?” she teased fluttering her eyelashes back in gest. “What happened to your horse?” she asked. Lone hadn’t seemed like the type to just walk to the cabin unless he was close, but it was still quite the distance to travel on foot. Probably. She needed sleep. Hearing Lone move about the cabin she was almost tempted to shut her eyes right then and sleep, but the howl of laughter had her blinking and turning in confusion but Lone had already headed outside to the horse. No answers for her it seemed.
She settled into the couch, ears pricked for movement as she waited for her friend to come back. Hopefully with news that she didn’t need to deal with her horse now. Instead she heard the sound of something dropping and spotting food. She didn’t even know the kind of news she had wanted could be topped, but it certainly was at the sight of the food. Picking up the jerky she didn’t hesitate to break a piece off. Jerky was better for filling her up faster. She’d have the apple after.
“It only makes sense for the most stubborn elf in the kingdom to ride the most stubborn horse,” she joked before taking another bite of jerky. “Besides no one else gives her dates to eat and all the soldiers who try to rider her smell terrible. She also may or may not complained that Sigs feet smell too,” She said through a mouthful of food before swallowing, her tired voice not doing her words justice. It was almost impossible to tell if she was kidding or not. Either the horse was really complaining to Sera about smell feet or Sera was making things up at this point. It certainly wouldn’t be a first for her either way, especially since she never elaborated on the how or why she was good with animals. It clearly went beyond animals just randomly liking her, but she always avoided answer how she knew their favorite foods or why they were getting jittery. Some stated it was just an elf thing, others thought she was talking to them. Regardless she clearly seemed to have a lot of fun teasing everyone about what the animals were saying about them. “Besides sitting on horses and negotiating post-sit is my strong suit, unlike all of you who just ride them like tyrants,” she quipped sarcastically, polishing off the jerky Lone had left with her.
Sera bit into her apple as she listened, ears perking up a bit at the idea of sleeping in what was her own bed. “Oh my day was delightful, met a new friend at the tavern. Met a loud drunk telling stories of all the shadows he fought out of the bar. Head of the Town Guards is as delightful as ever and still spits when he speaks. Still doesn’t know what my seal looks like after all these years, but you know how old men get when small girls start thrusting seals at them in the middle of the night,” she answered, waving her hand dismissively as she did so. “Nan and I bonded a great deal on this journey. We were so comfortable with each other we ended up saying everything on our minds. I can’t imagine there’s anything left unsaid between us at this point” She finished with a yawn, working her way slowly through her apple.
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Post by silent15 on Dec 1, 2016 23:54:33 GMT
Sigeberht smiled encouragingly at the messenger. Poor kid must feel out of his depth surrounded by all these ranking officers. Glancing at the date on the letter, he looked back at the messenger. "You rode here from Kleinburg in two days? That's a feat a Mercian nomad would be proud of. Go see to your horse and get some rest. We'll have a response ready for your lord shortly and you'll be able to set out again tomorrow."
After the kid had all but fled the tent, Sigeberht turns back to Sairahiniel, his smile fading. "Something about that story bothers me. If memory serves, Govenor Hitchens' division was five thousand strong. Even the largest Mercian tribes rarely reach three thousand strong. And the raider tribes tend to be smaller than that, as the raiding keeps their numbers down. Unless my homeland has changed considerably in the years since I've been gone, there's more to that situation than we're being told. I admit that we need these reinforcements but still, I suggest caution." He paused, "And I can't believe it's me of all people advising caution."
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Post by Raz on Dec 2, 2016 0:29:27 GMT
The young lad quickly went to work brushing and watering his horse at a nearby stream just outside of camp. Adrenaline coursing through his system, "We did it Daisy! We made it!" He was giddy with excitement of having arrived, this excitement only slightly tainted by the fact that he has to return home soon. His father didn't want to let him go but Lord Jaeger said that he would be the best for the job. "And it was true! I'm the fastest rider in all of the land." He boasts triumphantly. His smile wide and uncaring. He sets the brush in the saddle bag. "Don't worry Daisy, I saw a tavern not far away. I'll get you an Apple there." He chuckled to himself. "And I'll have myself an ale." The young boy had been given two gold carrots as advance payment. One will be enough for food and board for both him and his Daisy and still leave him with change.
As his excitement peaked he couldn't help but think of the battle of Fort Daxio. He'd watched it from his village just a little way from the fort. His village was outside the walls of Kleinburg so he saw Daxio's destruction as well as Hitchens destruction. It was scary, he didn't know why those men had to die. His father had been one of the men operating the big booming things that killed those men. His pa was real happy when he came home, so was ma. His pa said that he killed the bad men that had been oppressing them. "Does that make them bad too?" He said quietly to himself as he glanced back to the army camp. He shrugged, he didn't like thinking about things like this.
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Post by Alexodia on Dec 2, 2016 0:51:26 GMT
Hearing Sigeberht's concerns, Saira raised an eyebrow in slight surprise, not looking at Sigeberht as he talked.
"And here I was thinking that your honour had completely taken over your reasoning." She mused softly, keeping her eyes fixed on the tent where the messenger had hurried out of the tent. "I'm not of this land, but I've been here long enough to know the land and it's people; perhaps just as much as Laethyr. That's a depressing thought. I certainly like to think that if there was a threat almost twice as large as the largest Mercian tribes, I would have heard about it; through stories and my spies if not personally." She continued to muse out loud, before turning her head to look at the troubled General opposite the table, all traces of amusement gone from her expression.
"I don't like this. I don't like this at all. I've never even heard of Richthofen contributing anything even resembling an effort since the beginning of the war, and nothing came of that, did it? I haven't heard much from Kleinburg at all aside from that about this entire rebellion for the last three years, so why is it happening now?" She mused aloud, traces of concern slowly seeping into her voice, too deep in thought to notice as she continued with a quickening pace, her words seemingly blending together into one long sentence. "He just shows up out of the blue? For...what? Kleinburg haven't shown any inclination to assist us in this...grand a manner, and I know everything that goes on." She sped on, her eyes distant in thought before she suddenly snapped her head back to look at the entrance of the tent. "You said he rode here from Kleinburg in...two days? That's nigh impossible for anybody but the most experienced of riders to accomplish, you said so yourself; that kid was barely a teenager, there's no way that he could do that on his own." She continued, her words starting to blend together in speed, the worry now starkly evident in her voice. "So why would he-"
"-My Lady?" Clea interjected, her voice just as decidedly worried as her expression, her eyes locked on her Lady in concern and watching as Saira stopped dead in her tracks as if somebody had slapped her across the face. Looking inquisitively at her knight and recognition flowing into her eyes after reading how far she had gone in her eyes, Saira instantly and effortlessly replaced her previous expression with one of pensive thought, glossing over her previous outburst as if it had never happened.
"I don't like this, Sigeberht." She began again, her voice carefully stoic to avoid another incident, not even sparing Sigeberht a glance for fear of his reaction to her display of emotion. "That's going on the record, but it's your operation; we could destroy the enemy without any effort spared with the reinforcements, but if you don't bite the hand that feeds you, you'll never know what you're being fed until it'd too late." She concluded, before swiftly taking her feet off of the table and standing up to her full height and heading towards the entrance of the tent. "You know where I stand, but ultimately it's your decision. I just hope you pick the option that doesn't get us all killed." She added forcefully, her voice low and intimidating as she exited the tent without a second glance, Clea following suit a second later. But not before sparing a final pleading glance to the one with whom her Lady's fate potentially rested should he doom them all.
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Post by Raz on Dec 2, 2016 1:15:13 GMT
After finishing his duties of tending to his nag he returned to wait beside the tent. He let his mare graze on the green grass near the tent. When the elf and her companion came striding out of the tent. The boy couldn't help but shy away from her. Her companion didn't give him a dirty look while he was inside so perhaps that would allow him to ask them a question without being snapped at. "Uhm, my lady." He said trying to get the companions attention.
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Post by Deaths on Dec 2, 2016 3:52:54 GMT
"He's not my type." Artorias chuckles as he begins picking up all the bottles on the floor. He starts to the place them with the rest of the trash when he stops hard on his heels. Turning around with bottles still in his hands he returns to Sera. "Did you really talk to her?" A much more intense stare comes across his face as he leans in closer. "Did she say if I smell too?" A worriedly look cracks into a laugh has he goes back to cleaning. "Maybe I should go apologize to her, if I might be steering her later today." He yells from across the house.
"I saw them again. My older sister rode on the back of my horse with me for hours. I could feel her squeeze, I felt her breath on my neck. She was just like I last saw her. My people don't believe in spirits, when you die you become one with the flame. I know what I saw though." A small tear falls from his face, he leans against the pantry quiet for a few moments. He wipes his eyes, and begins again. "I saw my whole village here singing the old songs, I joined in them my father arrived." His voice trembles at the last part. "I fought him all over this house, I don't remember sleeping, all I remember was waking up to you." He walks to the stuffed bear in the corner of the common room, his sword impaled into it's chest, for what looks like the third time. The blade is cracked and ruined, he walks towards the fireplace adding more logs to what remains of the fire. Raising his hand he brings the flames back to life. He removes the sword and kneels by the fire with it in his lap. "Do you ever feel like you are pretending to be someone you aren't? I'm not a knight, I'm a poor barbarian stray. Stolen from his home, by rich nobles who wanted a curiosity to raise like a pet." His voice becomes devoid of all emotion. "Artorias go to your lessons." He speaks in a mocking tone. "Artorias stop your devil worship. Fire is not a god it is a tool nothing more. Artorias you will marry Lord Whatshisname's daughter. I don't care if you don't know her." For all the good his armor does for him he sighs completely defensive. "Artorias be a knight even though all the other squires hate you for being a savage. Go find the queen and return her, because she's bored with her wonderful life." Tear drops fall from his eyes as he stares into the flames.
He runs his palm across the blade his blood spills all over the blade. As if he was cooking a marshmallow he places the flame into the fire. After a few minutes of quiet prayer, his blood fills the cracks solidifying. As he pulls the blade from the fire it looks as good as new. This is what he was a warrior not an oath bound knight, forced to follow the whims of a rabbit. No he was designed to fight, and to lead others to battle.
"I'm quitting after we return her. I'm going back to the swamps, I'm going home." A look of determination covers his face, as he turns to Sera unable to look her in the eyes. "Get some sleep we ride in three hours." He stands heading towards his bedroom walking into it and closing the door quietly behind him. In his room he saw his the few belongings he has. Even back in the capitol he had very little he preferred a simple life. His one vanity object sat on a desk next to his bed. A grand lute made from some expensive wood he's never heard of. The wood was perfectly crafted, an Elvish smith worked many hours on it. The craftsmanship was second to none.
One day after capturing the rabbit in record time Sera, Snoe, and Artorias were walking the markets where it caught his eye. It sat in the window of a shop he swore a stream of light came down from the heavens and touched this instrument. He couldn't look away, he approached the window and stared for a moment. Until he noticed the price tag. He remembered Snoe encouraging him to get it, but he shook his head and walked away. Two hours later it was gifted wrapped sitting on his bed with one of the most skilled bards in the land as a teacher.
"I'm not them, I'll never be them, and I don't want to be them." He lies to himself as he sits on the corner of his bed waiting for the time to leave.
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Post by Raz on Dec 2, 2016 15:47:14 GMT
The man of mystery, Jaeger, has not been idle in the two days that it's been since his handpicked courier left. The boy was a capable rider, he would have arrived by now. The awe in the boys eyes when he was called from the crowd was only matched by the shock of his parents. At first both seemed hesitant to let their boy go. It was only after they saw their son turn to them and declare that he would serve his country, did they relent. His father, Major Heimlich, was currently serving their country in the military. The pride he showed for his son doing the same was nearly heart wrenching. When the boy left the country erupted into action. Builders began diverting the water back to the moat of the castle. This was done quickly as the population of the country was jumping at the chance to aid their Lord. The dip in the Andalusia water level was negligible to say the least. The roaring river kept up its steady flow as it always had.
Fort Daxio while damaged was still useful as a forward defensive and marshalling position for the army. It's reconstruction was underway with the military engineers creating the Fort to be used by men armed with the great guns that decimated Hitchens forces. Progress was slow since holes needed to be filled and the walls repaired. This is also not mentioning the bodies that were needed to be burned. This task was undertaken by both regular soldiers and army field medics. The medics would study the corpses and decide how quick an individual died and if they were capable of being saved. But this was a secondary part of their primary part. They were training on fixing the wounded Imperials as best as they could. These individuals would be executed regardless, though the practice was always a good thing for the cutters. None held sympathy for these soldiers of the Empire, there are still those alive who watched their nation be taken by these invaders. Despite this, the army was sure that the executions would happen away from the city. On another note, they made excellent target practice for the sharp shooters. Some would be put on top of a horse trotting around in a circle to simulate enemy officers. They were dressed in the attire of imperial officers so that it would help the shooters spot which were the officers and which were merely horsemen.
Other construction projects were still underway all throughout Freiherr. Granaries, watermills, and village walls were being constructed by free men who until now laboured away simply setting up new villages. As this happened it meant that the forests were quickly being felled to supply the demand or lumber. As a precaution, armed patrols constantly surveyed the eastern border for activity. So far all outposts have sent in their reports, all clear. In a stroke of luck the men of Fort Radio had been paid recently. As a result the royal treasury had much more capital to pay for these construction projects. They wouldn't begin dipping into actual funds until perhaps six months down the line, and that's without projecting any increase in trading from the south. But these were not the only things being made, Forts Jikon, Gavier, Xeres, and Hope were being constructed to the north. Outposts were also being placed in the mountains in case they attempt to strike over the mountains.
With these facilities in the early stages of construction it was then time to look to the soldiers. The personal forces that would be ready to march are the men he had on the field against Hitchens as well as nearly seven hundred soldiers he held in reserve. Which means that his forces number around four thousand and five hundred men in total. Six hundred of which were the newly created Winged Hussars. These men were armed with long spears and sabers. They wore armour as well as did their mounts. These were the cavalry that charged down the hillside into the remnants of Hitchens army. Next were one hundred Dragoons nicknamed Joseph's Reavers. They held a cavalry rifle, a pistol and a saber. Their pack allowed them to carry thirty shots, powder, wadding at the expense of armour. So far they're untested in the field, though their commander Erin Ackerman was eager to prove themselves."
Next came the front line infantry one thousand soldiers equipped with weapons of the time, specifically pikes and spears. They remain armoured and are the ones who will form a square while those inside of it will fire. Following this there exist two thousand and five hundred men armed with rifles. They are capable of firing by lines of three as well as advancing fire. These comprise the bulk of the force. And lastly we have the gun crews, three hundred powder covered sods who tend to the twenty-five twenty pounder cannons that they bring to battle. For non combat oriented personnel, two hundred medics, two hundred engineers. There also exist one hundred individuals who've been hand picked for their ability to hit a target and disappear. These would be Jaeger's rangers. They will not be involved in the combat initially, though their purpose will be revealed once an opportunity presents itself.
With all this going on, Jaeger can do nothing but wait and watch as things proceed. Everything hinges on how the imperialists respond to his message. Training and construction proceed as planned, New recruits are being trained as well. As he stands surveying the land he can't help but grin, "I will leave my mark on this world."
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Post by Serph on Dec 2, 2016 22:04:52 GMT
Sera grinned sleepily as Lone asked if she’d actually talked to Nan, her eyes daring him to guess. “I didn’t ask, but if you’re going to apologize bring something other than carrots and apples. She’s getting sick of all the soldiers bringing them as bribes,” she yelled back to where she assumed Lone had wandered off to. She was pretty sure she knew where he was, he wasn’t very quiet when he walked, though she couldn’t imagine he was trying very hard to walk softly right now. Shuffling her trash into a neat pile, she noticed her friend re-entered the room. His playful tone disappearing as he turned to more serious subjects. Sera ceased her movements and listened.
She didn’t answer as he spoke, she was all too aware of her friends fragile emotional state even if she hadn’t seen the tears. ’ Do you ever feel like you are pretending to be someone you aren't?’ she didn’t respond as her friend continued to talk. He couldn’t even look at her when he made his declaration. If he was proud of his choice he wouldn’t hide it by averting his gaze. She remained silent as her friend continued to try to hide himself now retreating to his room, declaring they’d leave in three hours. Sera watched him leave, unmoving and thoughts unceasing. She waited until she heard the door shut, before finally pushing herself off the couch and tossing out her trash, trying to put together a helpful and coherent thought. She could hear Lone speaking to himself, but she couldn't make out the words. Walking softly towards Lone’s door she paused close enough so he could hear her without her having to enter and disturb him.
“Artorias,” she started calmly, allowing the seriousness of the situation to seep into her voice, “I’m going to tell you what might just be a long winded arrogance cooked up by a tired mind, but, that hasn’t ever stopped me before so...” She paused, a faint hint of self-deprecating humor puncturing her words before she continued again. “You asked if I ever felt like I was pretending to be someone I’m not. I would say, we all wear masks and pretend to be what we are not at times. Not all masks will carry the same weight, and not all are as harmless as others, but all of them will conceal the truths we can't show others.” Sera paused again, shifting the weight in her feet. “I can’t say I’m happy you want to leave; but if the masks are too painful to wear in front of others and the only way out is to wear one when facing even yourself then,” She paused again, “then I'd rather you do what you need to do so you aren't being cornered and suffocated by the masks you must wear." She paused again before continuing more softly, "Please do not feel like you need to hide from me when you’re hurting.” She said remembering how her friend had hid his gaze from her when he said he wanted to quit as if he couldn't bear to see what face she would make. She had known he was still suffering from his family’s deaths, but she had never pried for the full story and to see her friend so drenched in bitterness and hurt was a painful sight. She wasn't sure what she could do, but she wanted to help him out of whatever corner he felt like he was stuck in. Unsure if he had even bothered to continue listening to her nonsense at this point, she breathed out and tried to push past the uselessness that was festering away in her gut.
Shifting uselessly on the balls of her feet again she took a step away from the door, feeling like she was abandoning him with every step she took. “I’ll be ready to go in three hours,” she finished, taking the next few steps she needed to truly start walking away from her friend’s door and towards her own room. She would pack first and then try to sleep. Maybe she'd even manage a few winks.
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Post by Alexodia on Dec 2, 2016 22:34:19 GMT
Striding out of the tent with a stormy expression still on her face Saira swept through the entrance of the tent with Clea, leaving Sigeberht behind and exiting into the main camp, refusing to spare the messenger child a single glance. Following suit behind her, Clea exited the tent with the stride of a soldier, effortlessly keeping up with her Lady and falling into line alongside her. Looking to her right slightly to spare her Lady a worried glance, she began to open her mouth before she heard the messenger now several metres behind them utter an address, his voice quaking. Stopping and turning to look at the messenger, her gaze was instantly brought to her left, as her Lady had literally stopped dead in the middle of the road much sharper than she had, still facing forward with her expression one of pensive anger; not quite angry, but not tranquil enough for anybody to mistake it for peace. Feeling nerves instinctively rise up inside her due to past experiences with that gaze, Clea stopped herself from looking too concerned before she turned her gaze towards the clearly scared messenger, her face morphing into a kind smile, opening her mouth to ask him what he wanted.
"Tell me." Saira began sharply, her intimidatingly calm voice cutting across the distance between them before Clea could even utter a sound, pointedly ignoring Clea's instantly wary gaze as she swiftly turned around to fix the messenger with her most fiery gaze. "If your friend had some sweetbread every day at lunchtime, and you...really wanted some and he never gave you any? That wouldn't be very good, would it?" She asked rhetorically, her voice dangerously low as she slowly stalked forwards towards the messenger, her gaze menacing yet far too passive to be her real expression. "But what if one day...he finally offered you some out of the blue, hmm? No mess, no fuss, no loopholes nor stipulations nor favours, just...out of the goodness of his heart? Would you not find that suspicious?" She continued, still stalking forwards to the now terrified messenger who looked like he was trying to shrink out of existence. "You're just a child, I wouldn't expect you to know anything about what goes on besides your own little world of what people tell you to do, but whatever your Lord is planning, I don't like it very much. Even the most experienced riders have failed riding from Kleinburg to here in two days, so you'll forgive me if I don't believe you to be capable of such a feat. One would almost think your journey was premeditated, hmm? Rather ingenious that your Lord would know the outcome of the battle before it even happened; even I can't do that." She continued dangerously, her voice still murderously calm as she stopped dead right in front of the messenger, whom looked like he had shrunk a foot shorter in terror. "Whatever you want, I don't care. Whatever you need, I don't care. If you need somebody to talk to, I suggest you find some ink, or better yet some mud, and draw a little smiley face on your hand, since it would seem that they would be the only ones who believe your little story. You want information, you can talk to somebody who believes a word that comes out of your mouth." She finished darkly, looming over the messenger with a murderous expression for several seconds of silence, before turning on her heels and marching off past Clea's carefully impassive expression; only she would be able to recognise the traces of unmitigated shock in Clea's expression. Not looking back at either of them, she strode off past the soldiers who had come out of their tents to watch the spectacle, most of them bolting back into their tents in fear as she marched off to her own tent. Sending the messenger one last apologetic expression before looking worriedly at the main tent right next to them, Clea reluctantly turned around and headed off towards her Lady, nervous to see what the future of their operation held.
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Post by Raz on Dec 2, 2016 23:23:12 GMT
The boy stood there for a moment simply watching them go."I wasn't even talking to her. I was just going to ask her friend if she could sign something for my brother." He says remembering that Merkel wanted a real knight to bless his blade. He carefully removed a small crudely carved wooden sword. Getting over his moment of shock hid brows furrowed and his determination to not come back empty handed began to kick in. He began at a brisk walk after the knight. He was within a few yards of the duo when he said. "I'm not interested in what you care for Ms. Nor were you the one I wanted to speak with. I wanted to speak with your stalwart knight." He grumbled just a bit quieter, "Who happens to be the only redeeming quality you have." He held his brothers blade blade first towards the knight. "My younger brother wanted a knight of renown to bless his blade so that he has luck in the tournament this month."
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Post by Alexodia on Dec 3, 2016 1:01:22 GMT
Pointedly ignoring Clea's consistently disapproving gaze as she strode forwards in the cold, Saira kept her glare forward and her march brisk as she strode through the camp with her tent in sight. Her soldiers were settled in for now, if anybody needed to reach her, they could do so from her tent. That included Sigeberht; if he needed her, she'd be there mulling. She liked to mull; it's one of the things she did to relax, among other things. Although based on Clea's forward look of passive-aggressive disapproval, mulling was the only way she'd be relaxing tonight. Starting to wonder just how irritating tonight was going to get, she looked over at Clea and opened her mouth to make a remark, likely sarcastic in nature, when they both heard an indignant voice behind them. Turning around in surprise, her eyebrows raised in a mix of shock and amusement as the kid marched up to them both, initially looking determined before his voice immediately started to falter under her burning gaze. Making his intent clear and even insulting her in the process which made her eyebrows shoot up even more, she watched as the boy hesitantly pulled out a small, wooden sword before he slowly offered it to Clea, his hands almost shaking as he looked at her with a hopeful expression.
"Rather crude, don't you think?" Saira asked sardonically, looking over the wooden sword with a deliberately patronising tone.
"My Lady." Clea spoke softly, her calm voice cutting the air despite its quiet. Looking away from the sword to meet Clea's expression, she raised her eyebrow in slightly bemused suggestion, ready to dish out another snide remark before her response died in her throat. Her expression falling slightly, she met Clea's gaze as Clea returned her own with her head held high; her expression was utterly calm, but her eyes were different. Not angry, not stormy, not even annoyed, but rather pleading. Wrestling with her own thoughts for a few seconds, she narrowed her eyes at her knight to discern exactly why Clea was asking this of her in her eyes, before morphing her expression into one of practiced boredom. She didn't know why Clea thought it necessary to give this kid the time of day, but she suspected that was the reason why she was asking. She hadn't got this far without giving Clea the benefit of the doubt.
"Fine, whatever." She announced in an expertly uninterested tone, swiftly masking her true thoughts. "It's not like your human traditions matter much to me." She continued, before fixing the kid with an expression of interest. "You're probably either a source of pride for your guardians or a complete and utter pain in the arse. Probably both." She added with a disinterested shrug and a non-committal expression, before turning off and heading to her tent alone. "Congratulations on doing your only job, pipsqueak." She added airily as she walked, not looking back at either of them. "Only going to get harder in the future."
"I'm sorry about that." Clea spoke after a few seconds of silence, her face morphing into a genuinely kind smile. "She can be...abrasive." She added softly, before squatting down where she stood and resting her forearms over her thighs, looking upwards at the kid still holding out the outstretched sword before she reached out with both hands and gingerly lifted the wooden blade from his hands, looking over it observantly and handling it with the utmost care before looking back to the kid with a warm expression. "This is a very good design for something hand-made, especially by somebody younger than yourself. He must possess great dedication to his goals, hmm?" She asked with a good-natured smile, before softly running her sword hand gently over the blade of the wooden sword. "The blade of your brother deserves a blessing more than a mere knight such as I can bestow. Nevertheless, let your brother know that he has my favour from now until his inevitable victory. May he best all who stand in his way." She concluded, her voice soft and quiet with her expression kind and nostalgic from her own tournaments as a young girl. How surprised they were when a tiny girl knocked all of the big, strong boys into the dirt without breaking a sweat. Respectfully offering the wooden sword back to the boy, she smiled genuinely as he took the sword back off of her before she rested her forearms onto her upper thighs once again and looking up at the child with a pensive expression. "It must be unnerving, riding all this way alone. You must care about your brother very much if you endeavoured to carry the burden of his blade along with your duties" She began softly, her expression gentle once more. "How are you feeling?"
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Post by Raz on Dec 3, 2016 1:35:15 GMT
"Exhausted, but I'm happy. I was able to fulfil my brothers dream of having his blade blessed by such a kind hearted knight such as yourself. And I was able to fulfil my lords mission though..." He looked in the direction that Saira ran off to. "Your master doesn't seem to want his help or even believe that I was able to get here this fast on my own." He shook his head as he sighed. "I don't why she was so mad at me but," He looked up at Clea inquisitively. "Despite her attitude she must be a woman of impressive character, she wouldn't have been able to get you as her knight otherwise." As he spoke with the knight he began to notice something."Huh, I didn't notice it at first but you look the Knight Iscariot of house Rommel. There's a statue of it in Talheim's residential district where some of the noble families used to live. You should come by and see it sometime, you can watch the next tournament." He says with a smile. Before she can respond he glanced at the tent. "Oh! I believe the general has a reply waiting." With that he quickly runs to the tent.
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Post by Deaths on Dec 3, 2016 6:07:16 GMT
She hasn't called him 'Artorias' in a long time if felt foreign. He changes into some lighter clothes, leaving his room he looks at Sera's. He stands there for a moment, his hand raised to knock but it doesn't go. Not sure of what to do or say he walks toward the pantry to find something for the horses. Unluckily for him all he had was apples, Nan was apparently tired of apples. Letting out a sigh he grabs an arm full, and heads toward the stables.
"Hey Nan, it's me Artorias." He states as he enters, and even bows a little. He hands an apple to her and she looks displeased. "Sera said you might not want one of these and sorry it's all I got." He apologizes as Nan stares at him disapprovingly, but takes a bite anyway. After a few seconds Artorias speaks back up. "I need to ask you a favor." As soon as he says that Nan spits chunks of apples all over his hand. "I know I know she said you don't like to be bribed I'm sorry, I swear it's not a bribe. I need you to promise to look after Sera, I think she's my best friend." Nan slowly takes another bite as if she's telling Artorias to continue. "Some bad things are going to happen in the next few days, just help me help her is all." Nan is quiet for a few seconds after deep contemplation it looks at him. Artorias swears he saw her nod at him, but he decided not to tell anyone.
Heading back inside he goes to his room he notices the lute again deciding what the hell it's been a while he picks it up. Sitting on his bed he tries his best to remember how to play it. His mind thinking of everything she said, all that talk about mask got him thinking. Lost in thought his fingers move instinctively. The lute sang beautifully as it always had, even Artorias' occasional slip up sounded amazing. He keeps playing slowly improving with every minute that goes by. Pretty soon he loses all track of time.
"I can wear this mask for a little longer." He thinks to himself a true smile formed subconsciously on his face. "I can stand it, especially for her." Before he knew it he begins playing his favorite song "A bear there was, a bear, a bear!" He begins to sing without a care in the world.
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Post by silent15 on Dec 4, 2016 15:26:29 GMT
Sigeberht had stepped out of his tent to get some air, while he mulled over the beginnings of a plan to handle this unexpected offer from Richthofen. Looking up he saw the Kleinburg messenger approaching Sairahiniel. "Oh no" he sighed, already imagining the effects she would have on the poor kid's self-esteem. It was so much worse than that. Sigeberht observed in disbelief as Sairahiniel proceeded to all but flat out tell the kid that they suspected his master of treason. Still stunned, he watched as Sairahiniel stalked off towards her tent. Standing there, he could feel the familiar anger that she seemed to so easily provoke in him blaze up again, hotter than normal, and before he knew what was happening he found his feet moving after her, pushing past where Clea and the messenger still stood.
Entering Sairahiniel's tent, Sigeberht barely waited for her to acknowledge his presence before beginning, his voice oddly level to his ears, "You know, I had just come up with the basics of a plan to sound out Richthofen's loyalties and still be able to take advantage of his reinforcements. But that plan depended on him not knowing for sure that we suspected him. Now, fair enough, you weren't to know that I had a plan. But," he continued, voice rising, "did it never occur to you that all but spelling it out to Richthofen's agent that we don't trust him was a bad idea? Or do you honestly think that you can say whatever you want to anyone and there'll be no consequences! Thanks to you, we're now stuck with the with previous options of letting an unknown quantity into our midst, or leaving him unsupervised in Kleinburg to get up to gods-knows what! And to think that you have the nerve to criticise me for recklessness when you go and pull shit like that!"
After he had finished as moment of silence reigned over the tent, during which part of screamed at him to withdraw before Sairahiniel was able to compose another volley of insults. But his pride keep him rooted to the spot. He'd never backed down in the face of her insults before, and he'd be damned if he started now.
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Post by Raz on Dec 4, 2016 19:59:32 GMT
"Father!" The shout echoed over the cries of the wounded and the battle crys of the living. A man atop his black warhorse raced forward, urging his mount forward over the bodies of the dead and dying. It's hooves squelching in the mud as it advanced at a trot. Far too slow for the lordling atop the beast. His spurs jamming in hard to the flesh of the beast, small streams of blood began to run down the exhausted animal. The man cared not for his horses pain but more so on the scene playing out in front of him. Any who dared get in the way of this man were dispatched by a thrust of his spear. In front of the man a clash between two riders was underway. One clad in thick silver armour was parrying blow after blow from the much younger rider. Though it was clear that the other man was beginning to weaken as glancing blows were taking a steady toll on his body. Rivulets of blood were seeping from gaps in his armour. The rain was falling without abandon as the battle raged turning a dusty clearing into muddy pit of writhing bodies both beast and man. Lightning flashed in the distance illuminating with chilling clarity, the raiders blade puncturing the old barons chest piece. Without a word the man twisted and pulled the blade away. The baron fell from his saddle to land in the mud without a sound.
"No!" The shout drown out as the man who killed his father began a shrill whistle. The moment this sound was heard, the horsemen began pulling away from the battle. Jaeger leapt from his horse to land by his father. He flipped him over, blood and mud stain the old man's armour. His eyes are vacant of the life that had been there just moments ago. "Father? No, father. Please. No...no no no nonononono. No!!!" He shouted up into the sky, he cut his eyes to the fleeing rider. Momentarily catching the man's stare, it was then that something broke within Jaeger. His eyes were filled with such unadulterated rage that his men were hesitant to approach him. The man looked down to his father once more, he closed his father's eyes and said,"I will carry on your cause, father. We will be free."
He stood and turned to his men, "Gather the wounded and the dead. Take them back to Talheim. Tomorrow we go to war." This was the first time that anyone had ever seen Jaeger with such a chill to his gaze. They would soon get used to it as it never left their Lord and still resides with him to this day. And so it was that a patrol to an outlying village resulted in the death of Joseph Von Richthofen and to a degree Jaeger Von Richthofen. Something within the young lord died with his father that day. He does not smile or laugh much anymore. Just as he promised, the next day Jaeger and his army rode into Mercia. He never found the rider that killed his father but he did rind others, he found many others. Each one they found was butchered and piled in the centre of their villages and tents. Their horses were slaughtered and everything they owned was burned. None survived the purge, men women and children of Mercia were slaughtered in his rage. As suspected he couldn't catch every Mercian nor could he go very far into the country without allowing the enemy to encircle him. After three months of slaughter, he returned with his men. Their hearts hardened, their loyalty in their commander assured through both their trust in his leadership as well as their immense hatred for the Mercians.
Today Jaeger stands in front of the memorial to his father and the men who died in the ambush. "Its beginning father. The battle for our home is about to start." His voice is soft when he speaks. "I will keep my promise, the land will be ours once again."
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Post by Raz on Dec 6, 2016 17:16:38 GMT
Wilhelm, having grown tired of waiting, sighed and went to Daisy. He mounted his horse and took a look back at the camp. Chances were that they weren't going to come to a decision soon anyway. But, it is as his Lord said, if they couldn't decide on a plan of attack regarding him, then Wilhelm is to return immediately. Without much fanfare, he gently snapped the reigns. "Hyah, come old girl. Best we be getting home, storms a brewing. And so he set off down the road, Daisy's hooves clipping against the ground as it made its way. He was to stop by a tavern on the way home. There he'd speak with one of Lord Jaegers other couriers. There he'd receive payment and maybe have some fun. The thought brought a blush to his face, he had just begun to early stages of becoming a man. As it was he'd stopped by the taverns before in this area, the serving girls would listen to his stories about life on the road. "Probably the best part of my job." He said with a laugh.
The trees were swaying back and forth in the winds, aye a storm was certainly on its way. The dark clouds in the distance signalled that. A few hours into the ride and the rain began to fall, by the time he reached the Seven Cats Tavern both he and Daisy were drenched. Luckily, the tavern had a small stable for his mare. After putting his horse blanket on Daisy's back he went inside. He saw a man with a peaked cap and silver buttons on his shirt. That's the guy, he thought. Before he could move towards the man, the man was striding towards him. "What news do you bring?" Wilhelm pulled a piece of parchment from his bag. "Full reports written on there. They don't trust our Lord in the slightest. They've shown their hand too early." He says with a grin. The courier nods, showing aferal grin of his own. "I see, excellent work Wilhelm. Our Lord will be quite pleased. Here," he removes a small pouch from his belt and hands it to the boy. Inside are ten gold carrots. Enough to buy armour, a sword, as well as a horse. You could become a knights errant with just this. "Have some fun. We'll be waiting for your return." With that the man tucks the parchment away and heads out to his own horse.
Wilhelm walks over to the bar and says, "One Rauchbeir please." He places a single gold carrot on the bar and any comment the Barkeep was about to make is swept away. "Coming right up." Beside him a girl and some other man are talking. The girl looks like she's about to fall asleep until her friend said something to her. Wilhelm didn't catch what he said but he did hear her say the name Artorias.
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Post by Serph on Dec 7, 2016 6:06:44 GMT
Sera had managed to drowsily pack her bag, or at least close enough to it. She’d replaced the potions she’d used early and dropped in a few extra bottles and jars in her bag just in case, trying to force herself to remember everything she needed. She’d tried for a good five minutes or so, leaving a few jars out in obvious places as reminds before heading onto her bed for a much needed nap. She was done with being awake and dealing with problems. Clumsily slipping out of her shoes and shedding the metal bits of her armor, she swiftly cuddled into her sheets. She was out like a light. --- If she dreamed at all she couldn’t remember, all she knew was there was suddenly a loud strumming and the calls of a bear and she was face first on the floor wrapped in her blankets in a panic. What bear?! Trying to untangle herself in the panic of some wayward bear having invaded the cabin, her tired mind finally registered what was music rather than a full on warning. She couldn’t help but laugh in relief as she finally untangled herself and righted her sheets. Rubbing a sleepy eye, at the nice little nap she spotted her jars lying about. Packing. Yes. That was a thing. It was a very important thing. Hands moving automatically, she started plucking up things around her room, stuffing them neatly into her bag and occasionally tallying what was already in there. Sometimes triple checking before putting more in on the off chance it had managed to change by the time she looked back.
Finally satisfied she plucked up her bag and headed towards Lone’s room. He seemed to be strumming away happily. Whatever happened during her nap, he at least seemed a bit better if all the singing was anything to go on. She passed his room easily, heading to stow some preserved food into her bag and refill her canteen for the road. There was no such thing as too many snacks for the road. Eyeing her options with extreme prejudice, she chose jerky and a few fruits, including her secret stash of dates hidden behind a large bag of flour and a bag of grains in a small jar. Maybe she’d even give a few to Nan if the horse was being good. Satisfied nothing else was going to fit in her bag she left it on the couch, knocking light on Lone’s door what she passed a second time. “I’ll be ready in 5. Meet you in the living room,” she called out to him, heading back to her room to put her shoes and extra bits of metal gear back on. All the shiny extras were more tedious than anything, but it wasn’t like she was going to just leave them at this point. With a sigh she laced up her shoes and fit the last of her armor back into place before finding her way to the living room to wait.
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Post by Raz on Dec 7, 2016 7:18:47 GMT
The letter found Jaeger as he surveyed the construction of his new forts. Xeres was his current focus, it would be the one that the enemy met first. Shaped like a star, the beginnings of the base were underway. Stones were taking time to transport from the quarry to the many different construction projects, but this was to be expected. At the same time this proved a useful way to be rid of the excess stone that's been mined while the sheißpulver was still being excavated. Stakes were set up around the beginnings of the walls to try to funnel any soldiers to the gates. These would prove to be murder pits for any who attempt to take cover there. Jaeger himself had just received word from the unit he had dispatched to take up positions in the mountains. They were making progress in making it to their assigned positions. Should be there and set up by weeks end if nothing delays them. Such positions will be perfect to harass any troops moving along the main road. It will also keep them from advancing through the mountains. At least, they will make the price for capturing them so high that the imperialists won't have sufficient soldiers to strike a Talheim. He looked up from his plans for the fort to see an exhausted messenger standing before him. "Ah, Kessel. I see Wilhelm did his job admirably."
The agent nodded, "Yes my Lord, his report on the enemy situation will be most useful in the coming weeks." Jaeger scanned over the report, taking a long hard look at their supply situation. Slowly he nods, "We'll be able to bleed them dry. Excellent work, Kessel. I have one more message I'd like to send however." He removes a small rolled up sheet of parchment."Have one of our ravens carry this message." On it states, "Imperials, what is it you fight for?" The man nods and hurrys off to dispatch the bird. Yes, he'll be tipping his hand but it's not as though it matters at this point. The imperialists aren't in a position to harm him nor does this change anything. They already know he isn't trustworthy. "Your move, Mercian."
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Post by Deaths on Dec 7, 2016 20:39:40 GMT
A light knock comes upon his door, it time to go it seems he'd best get dressed. Deciding it was best to ride light he throws on his chain mail, riding in plate was annoying especially if he'll be taking care of Sera. Trowing on a a cloth over shirt he proceeds to the living room. Looking over he saw Sera fully dressed with a bag crammed full, she had a habit of packing everything she possibly could. So much so that the only thing Artorias' bagged up was his plate armor, and his lute. He didn't know what to say to her things were a little awkward in his mind.
"I'll pull the horses around give me a minute." He says as he leaves the living room and heads out the cabin. Heading to the stable he grabs Nan, and the horse he borrowed earlier. Sheriff was his name, he was a bit older so they didn't use him in combat any more,but he still was a strong horse. "I swear I'll let you go out to stud when this is over. You've earned it old man." He promises the stallion who lets out an approving whinny. Bringing them to the front door he lazily ties them up before returning to the house.
"I'm going to be completely honest with you." He states as he returns to the living room, a stern look on his face his tone completely serious. "I had a talk with Nan, and I feel like an idiot now if you were lying to me, I will never speak to you again." He sticks his tongue out at her a playful smile crosses his face. "I've been thinking." He continues speaking as he grabs his belongings."We could runaway together, we have horses we can go where ever we want." He puts on a fake pleading tone. "I can play my lute, you can sell your tonics, it'll be a hard life we can make it work." A mischievous look beams from his face as he stares at Sera waiting for her response. Though he was joking part of him, would have loved that idea. "The horses are ready. You can either ride Nan with me, and we will have Sheriff carry our gear." He pauses a small laugh escapes his mouth. "Or you can ride Sheriff by yourself and we can split up the loads between them. Don't worry Sheriff is a good old horse he'll take care of you." He leans against a wall waiting on Sera.
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Post by Alexodia on Dec 7, 2016 23:40:50 GMT
Upon Sigeberht's entrance into the tent, her eyebrow raised automatically at his recognisable posture. No doubt she knew his reasoning for barging in here. And it appeared that she was correct, upon sitting lazily in her chair and hearing Sigeberht's increasingly raising voice yelling at her, his face getting steadily redder as he let loose with his criticisms. She could no doubt see various thoughts running through his head that he was too prideful to say even in the moment as he finally stopped unleashing his volley of criticisms, his face red in anger. Keeping her face expertly impassive, she allowed her eyes to shift from boredom to intense calculation. Kicking her leg out dramatically as she uncrossed her legs and stood up to her full height, she kept her eyes locked onto Sigeberht's fuming expression, her face still emotionless and calculated as she allowed herself to give one tiny smirk as she stopped in front of him. Taking a deep breath as she stood in front of him, mouth twitched in its smirk once more as she continued to level her gaze.
"You know...after all the time that we've been together...I find it rather insulting that you would think me incapable of thinking ahead." She began after a few seconds of silence. "You had a plan, of course I knew you had a plan; I'm not a moron. But what would have that plan entailed, hmm? Allowing him to merge with our forces while 'covertly' keeping an eye on him? In case you hadn't noticed, my dear, his forces are far superior to ours but not only that...he's not on our side, is he? If he was, he would have offered his assistance a long time prior to this. So what in your right mind makes you think that we would be able to do absolutely anything to stop him from taking us over once we had allowed him access to our forces, hmm?" She asked rhetorically, carefully keeping her voice stoic and impassive, while injecting the most amount of gravitas she could. "What good would your subtlety be then? He would be able to do anything to us, and we wouldn't be able to do anything to stop him; we would have effectively given over our forces to him. Your plan was well-meaning, of course, but utterly short-sighted; as was mine, of course, but if he knows we don't trust him, then we have forced his hand, have we not? If he is on our side, he will be forced to prove it. But if he is not, then we will have seen through his deception and not only deprived him of his in, but we will have derailed any plans that in may have entailed, and he will be forced to show his hand in some way or another. He no longer has the ability to pretend, does he? There's no uncertainty about it anymore; I wonder what would happened would you have allowed him to know our most fundamental weaknesses." She added, unable to keep a small tone of condescension out of her voice as she turned around and slowly stalked back to the other side of the room. Sitting herself in her chair once more and slowly crossing her legs, she looked up at Sigeberht with an uncharacteristic look of worry on her face.
"He's been up to god-knows-what in Kleinburg for three years; there's nothing that he can do there that he hasn't already." She began once more, her voice low. "He's planning something, you know that for certain. I don't know about you, but I'd rather know what his intentions are than merely try and covertly deduce while the noose is already around our necks. Sometimes...the only way to know somebody's true colours is to prevent them from doing what they normally do to conceal it. You taught me that, of all people." She added, a small smile coming to her lips. "For all of your...honour, you're easy to read once you've been pushed. Richthofen offered this help knowing that we would be suspicious of him; allowing him here would be playing right into our hands. Some enemies are too dangerous to play games with, Sigeberht." She finished, her expression still stoic, allowing the dead silence of the tent to wash over them for a few seconds before she stood up to her full height once again. "That little shit that has left us to report back to his lord will report disarray between us; we must take our advantages where we may, hmm? If we're at all lucky, he'll think us divided; if there is any time to be united, it is now." She spoke up, the imploring tone subtle in her voice, but still visible as she locked eyes with Sigeberht. "This is an extremely precarious situation; done incorrectly, it could spell our doom. So I'm asking you to trust me." She added in a low voice, allowing the plea to come across in her voice.
"If it means that we survive to live the rest of our lives...do you think that's something that you can do?"
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Post by silent15 on Dec 8, 2016 1:16:54 GMT
He knew himself well enough to know that his anger tended to blaze brightly but briefly, but even Sigeberht was surprised at how quickly his anger guttered out. Mostly was because Sairahiniel was not only providing reasoning behind her actions but was also, by her standards, being downright conciliatory. "Why, that was almost tactful General. Sprits, keep this up and you'll be the belle of the next ball the Queen throws." As far as he was concerned, it was high time that some of this mockery went both ways.
"As for trust?" His face hardened before he continued, "I think you're rude, arrogant beyond belief and seem to treat everyone around you like they're pawns in some game you're playing. But despite that, I do trust you." He ran his maimed hand through his hair. "I've yet to decide if that's a sign of good sense on my part or evidence that I need to get my head examined."
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Post by Serph on Dec 8, 2016 2:51:54 GMT
Sera nodded as Lone awkwardly shuffled off to fetch the horses. Maybe he wasn’t as much better as she’d hoped. Eyeing him as he left, she could do nothing but wait for his return. She wasn’t sure she was ready to deal with horses again, but she didn’t have much choice. At the very least, she could push the inevitability of it all away for a short while longer, ears perked almost instinctively as she listened. It’s why she wasn’t surprised when her friend wandered back in and started speaking again. Calmly tilting her head towards him she listened as he spoke about talking to Nan and his goal to run away together.
She paused in contemplation, lips pressed together for a moment as thought. She wasn’t even looking at Lone as her gaze rested on the floor. After a few moments the words finally left her lips, “But… it’d be really awkward to travel forever with someone who refused to talk to me again,” she chimed in innocently, furrowing her brow for good effect as she tried to fight off the small smile creeping onto her face. She can’t believe Lone actually tried talking to the horse to be honest. “But I suppose it depends entirely on what you meant by lie. Everything I said was true after all,” Sera said while contemplating what she had said, “No one else gives her dates, the soldiers smell, she may or may not believe Sig’s feet stink,” Sera continued, raising her fingers one by one as she named her points, “I don’t know if she thinks you smell, and she’s getting sick of the apples and carrots all the soldiers bring as brides,” Sera finished topping off the list of things. “I think that’s just about everything and all of its true,” she said continuing. She never commented either way on if she talked to Nan so he couldn’t really call her a liar on either end of that. If anything she figured he’s more mad about the whole ‘somehow he got the idea he should talk to a horse’ thing, but that was hardly her fault.
“Oh!” she paused as if figuring it out, her fist lightly tapping her flat palm, “The lie I told was about how stubborn I was! But that’s hardly a reason to stop talking to me,” she continued in mock shock as if realizing her true folly, eyes wide in absolute horror. “Oh Lone, won’t you forgive me?” she jokingly pleaded, clearly having seen the error of her ways. “It was wrong to pretend I was the most stubborn elf in all the kingdom, but it was mere hyperbole! Surely you can understand that!” she continued before addressing his real question. She wanted to snort at the suggestion of her riding on her horse, but instead she just rolled her eyes. “No thank you, I’ve have enough of steering horses for one lifetime,” she sniffed, crossing her arms. “And wait I thought Nan couldn’t even be ridden by Sigs?” she said after realizing she was going to be mounting the horse she came with again. If Sheriff was so much nicer why weren’t they riding him instead? She narrowed her eyes curiously at Lone, not reaching for her bag until she got an answer.
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Post by Deaths on Dec 8, 2016 3:19:40 GMT
"I told you we had a talk." Artorias' eye squinted trying to find a crack in Sera's defenses. "Besides one horse shouldn't carry the burden of both of us, and all our belongings. You alone would be too much..." He trails off teasing his comrade. "Anyway it would be bad for their backs." A devilish smile crosses his face. "If everything you say is true Nan should have no problems letting us ride her." Watching Sera carefully for an hint that she may betray herself. "Since we came to an agreement, I'm sure are ride should be easy." Picking up his bags, he gives Sera one more look as if offering her one last chance to come clean. "Sheriff is to old to have two riders it would be cruel to do that to him." A sympathetic tone comes over him. "We couldn't put the poor man through that now could we...why it would be down right criminal." He pauses for affect, cracking his voice on purpose letting a false tear roll down his face, a trick he learned from Sera herself.
"I'll be waiting outside. Once you've gathered the courage to face Nan again." Openly mocking her, he lets out a few laughs and heads outside. Attaching his gear to Sheriff's saddle bags he gives him a soft pet. He walks to Nan and gently pulls himself on to the saddle. Nan starts to buck, but remembers the contract and stands boredly instead. "Thanks Nan this means a lot to me." He whispers in her ear, turning his head to the door. Waiting for Sera to lock up the place the moment she steps out he lets out an obviously fake laugh. "Oh Nan you're so funny. Though you shouldn't say that about Sera she's sensitive about her..." Pretending to only have just seen Sera he cuts himself off mid sentence, and begins whistling. "Oh Sera so good of you to join us." Offering her a hand he waits for her.
These moments were nice the world around them was going to hell, but nothing changed between them. Feeling regenerated all the cares of the world were washed away by her smiling face. Things couldn't be better a nice day ahead though it looks like some rain will be coming soon. The ride to Ashenford would only be a few hours hopefully it will be uneventful.
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Post by Raz on Dec 8, 2016 3:40:35 GMT
Thunder rumbled in the distance. It's roar so eerily similar to the cannons hooked up to the team's of horses that will be hauling them. The first time these were used against Fort Daxio one of the gunners said that he thought he had been struck deaf by its discharge. Since then the gunners have gotten much more accustomed to the bark of their beasts. Still, each time he heard their report he had to suppress a grin. This was what his life had been building to. Their success hinges on their new weapons and the courage of their men.
Jaeger lifted his hands to adjust his collar, his calloused hands put it in place. "The day is finally here." He mused. He stood in his bedroom looking at the family that were stolen from him. Above his bed rested a portrait of his father his brown beard a vibrant shade of brown which stood in stark contrast to his grandfather's snow white hair. His mother was still heavy with child in this portrait, little Anaiese. The sister he would never see. And there he stood by his father's side, Joseph's hand rested on his son's shoulder. "I was only seven when they made this. They could barely keep me still for that long." His smile was one of nostalgic sadness. "It all started falling apart after that..it was the last time I saw them all so happy." Sickness took his grandfather weeks later. His mother died when she gave birth to a little baby girl. His mother's last words were her name. Stricken by grief Joseph could not stand to see the child, each time he did she reminded him of his wife. Anaiese was sent to live with a nanny until Joseph could be around her. On the road however the carriage was ambushed, the nanny and her guards were slaughtered. Anaiese was nowhere to be found. Searches were undertaken for months with no sign of her.
That route was supposed to be patrolled by guards of the Empire, they were supposed to ensure the safety of the people of Kleinburg. These guards only deigned to patrol the road one every two weeks. They much preferred to be out whoring with their comrades than working. That was the final straw, production on the secret weapons ramped up. Then fifteen years later during a response to help one of the villages the Empire troops refused to protect, Joseph died. "Now I'm all that's left of my house..." He keeps his eyes on the painting for a long time. Memories of his past playing out before him like he was reliving them all. Deep in his heart he knew he couldn't get them back, even if he were to tear the empire down, they'd still be dead and he'd still be alone in the world. "But that isn't why I fight." He says closing his eyes for a moment. "I fight in the hope that one day my people will be free. That they will not be seen as objects that can be so easily abused by some foreign Lord or lady without a second thought. I fight to defend my people from fighting in wars for a Lord they do not recognize as their own." He lifts his head and stares into his father's eyes. "I fight so that future generations don't have to."
There's a knock at the door that snaps Jaeger from his thoughts. "Come in." He says, returning to strapping on his sword belt. The blade was his great grandfather's blade. Myth Carver, Scanlon Von Richthofen was one of the more questionable characters in the Richthofen line, still he did much good for the world during his time with a band of adventurers known as Vox Machina. Myth Carver was the blade that slew the Dragon Thordak. Supposedly, anyway, Scanlon was always a notorious liar so who could say for certain. Regardless of the validity of the tail, the sword felt good at his side. The man who had spoken earlier pushed the door open and stepped inside. The man was slightly taller than Jaeger with dark brown eyes and clean shaven face. "The men are ready, Jaeger." Jaeger nodded and turned towards his second in command. General Adrian de Sanada, a man who shared Jaegers love for Kleinburg. They have been friends since they were children. From playing the Wolf and the Hare to commanding the Army of Kleinburg, that friendship has remained. "Thanks. Has everything been taken care of?" Adrian nodded, "Aye, provisions, weapons, replacement parts. Everything is ready to go." Jaeger glanced at the portrait one last time before looking back to Adrian. "Then let us not keep them waiting." With that he strode out his childhood bedroom for what may be the last time.
He could see his army marshalling on the field in front of Talheim. From here they didn't look like Mmuch aside from a grey mass with banners flapping in the wind. Really they were the hopes and prayers of the Kleinburgian people. Everything falls upon this valiant group of men. As he mounted his warhorse people clamoured into the streets to watch as their Lord went to war. Many women threw flowers to young Lord. Old men too frail to be used in combat shouted for Jaeger to give the empire a good kick in the teeth for Kleinburg. A child began saying, "Is he a free Lord now?" To which a man beside him said, "You bet he is. He is the Freiherr." When the crowd got wind of this the chant of "Our Freiherr." Became all that was said until Jaeger and Adrian had withdrawn from the city entirely. It was a surreal event for him to experience such praise. Still, it was comforting to hear those words coming from his people.
Before long he was in front of his assembled army. He raises his voice for all watching to hear his words. "Men of Kleinburg, warriors of the fatherland! Hear my words!" He begins having his horse pace up and down the line of soldiers. "Today we set off to retake the land our forefathers claimed centuries ago. Today we end the oppression that is delivered upon us by the hands of the Hares!" His eyes scanned over his assembled army. Their eyes dance with the fire that they've kept hidden since they were children. Jaeger's voice rose in both volume as well as in anger. "The Hares will pay for what they've done to our land. For not keeping our people safe from those Mercian animals." He draws his blade and rears his horse onto its back to legs. "Sic semper tyrannis!!!" He shouts to roars of approval by his soldiers. They beat their musket butts into the earth repeating it like a mantra. Jaeger glanced to Adrian who gave him a proud smile before nodding. With that concluded, Jaeger and dragoons rode ahead of the column.
Their target, the supply route.
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Post by Serph on Dec 8, 2016 4:12:40 GMT
Sera nearly snickered, but instead just grinned indulgently as Lone insisted he talked with Nan. Suuure he did. Still she took the mocking with grace. “You’re right, clearly it’s all the muscle I’ve put on,” she continued with a grin, as Lone tried to get the truth out of her again. She wouldn’t crack. “What agreement?” Sera asked curiously, unless Lone had developed a new skill overnight, she knew he couldn’t talk to horses. Even though she wanted to know, she could admit she was momentarily distracted by the old tear to the eye trick, if only in a twinge of pride that he was finally getting the hang of it. It took him forever to learn how to get his eyes to water just right after all. “You’re getting better at that,” Sera praised with a small laugh as Lone gave her one last mocking remark before leaving. Still, an eye roll, a bag and a short walk outside latter and the mocking was on again.
Sera locked up diligently while Lone barked his laughter like a madman. She calmly raised an eyebrow at Lone and Nan, the latter of which didn’t even look amused. Or neigh. “Well now I know you can’t talk to Nan,” Sera noted, heading towards Sheriff so she could load up her own bag. She took note of Lone’s hand and decisively ignored it as she took her sweet time getting her bag just right for their travels. If she took a bit of extra time well, it was hardly her fault. And if Lone looked absolutely ridiculous sitting on a bored Nan with his hand out for too long, then maybe he should have saddled her bag himself. She heard a small whine, and looked up to Sheriff’s ears twitching. “Over a little more?” she asked innocently to the horse as she adjusted the bag again. The horse’s ears twitched again, but he seemed more pleased with the placement. “Of course,” she said, gently petting the horse’s head as Sheriff’s tail swished happily, finally looking at Lone and his hand again.
At least he wasn’t so awkward anymore, though she wasn’t sure if it was because he was feeling better or if he was just feigning it all now. She’d get to the bottom of it eventually. “Oh, you’re too kind,” she teased with a smile, reaching to take his hand to help balance herself as she stepped up onto the saddle’s foot hold. Nan didn’t seem too happy about this arrangement but the old horse never seem happy about many things and she hadn’t actually tried to stop Sera from stepping which was surprising. She expected at least some sort of resistance. Maybe Nan was hoping she’d get more dates out of listening. Still, she might as well try to mess with Lone a smidge more since he seemed confident he’d talked to the old girl.
Letting her face shift into an almost natural look of surprise Sera looked up to lock eyes with Lone. “I...I understand now. Of course, how could I be so foolish not to see it? It’s truly the bond of undying love and devotion that helped you convince Nan to let you ride her,” Sera chimed in feigned disbelief, pausing mid-mount as she’d tried to figure out the best way to seat herself on Nan. Sheriff snorted behind her. “No?” Sera asked, wide-eyed as she turned her head slightly to try and see Sheriff. It sort of worked. Sheriff shuffled into her line of sight, tail swishing hard for a moment in impatience, but he didn’t seem particularly agitated. Sera looked back at Lone seriously, “I think Sheriff might fight you for Nan’s love.”
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Post by Deaths on Dec 8, 2016 5:22:31 GMT
"I yield, I yield. If only you were half as good fighting with your weapons as you were with your words." Throwing his hands up Artorias surrenders completely routed by his superior foe. "I should have known better than to try to go one on one with you. Your verbal onslaught is to much" He continued, grabbing the reigns and signalling Nan to ride. They trot off at a decent pace the cabin getting smaller and smaller until it fades into the distance. " It'll be a few hours until we get to Ashenford. There is going to be a storm, though I'm sure you Elves can talk to the clouds also." He fakes a pout and continues down the road. There a roadside tavern not to far from here if it gets bad we can settle the horses." He finishes his speech with a deep inhale. "Something cat tavern I don't remember the name." He continues with his mind traveling faster then he was. "They supply us with all the dried meat you love so much." Thinking about all the wine he consumed the night before. "We will need an order of wine from them too." He groans, even the thought of alcohol makes his head spin.
"Hey I want to say thanks for back there. I'm to macho to say when somethings wrong, but I appreciate you being around. I think the only way I could leave is with you coming with me." He rambled on speaking his mind without much thought behind what he says. "I think that your my best friend, hell my only friend." His face turned red and was heating up embarrassed more by the way he was acting than by what he was saying. "So I guess I'll stick around for a little bit longer. Unless you really want to go live in a swamp." Trying to change the subject he falls back to humor his only weapon in conversations. "It'll be nice we can live in a stump, eat mushrooms and toadstools while we hunt alligators. We have some really big trees there I know how much you like trees." Giving up on his sales pitch he looks back at Sera. "Actually never mind, I don't think you'd could pull off the swamp look, you don't have the figure for it." Taking a few cheap shots as he kept speaking.
The weather was starting to turn as the rain droplets began to fall in the horizon a lone building stood. The tavern he was speaking of no doubt. He could just make out a stable with a few horses huddle in it for shelter. He points out the building to Sera unsure if she could see over him. They've been riding for a while and with the weather getting worse he didn't want to push his luck with Nan. He heads into the stable and starts putting the horses away. Tossing a bag of coins towards Sera he looks at her.
"Go inside while I get them comfortable order us something to drink." He pauses for a second thinking of his hangover from earlier. "Just water for me." He waves her off as he helps Nan and Sheriff inside the stable.
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Post by Raz on Dec 8, 2016 5:38:38 GMT
Inside the bar, a boy sits at the counter four cups deep. "And I says to the elf,"No wonder no man'll touch ya." She was a bish, tryna boss me around when I wasn't even talking to her. King Jaeger'll set her straight." He says to his small crowd of waitresses. "She din even believe I got to the camp in two days." Hic. "She was all yellin at me for nuffin. I thought elves were supposed to be nice." His face was red from the alcohol but he wore a happy smile as the waitresses excused themselves so they can get back to work. "Barkeep, nother round." When the door closes he glances to the new comers. "And a round for those two as well."
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Post by Serph on Dec 8, 2016 6:14:27 GMT
“I do it out of kindness, I can’t have you sulking because I bested you at everything, now can I?” she teased, getting seated behind her friend for the journey. “Ah yes, the ancient art of cloud talking. Like for instance how they mock us to with that bunny looking cloud,” she cried dramatically pointing to the sky. Really it only looked like a bunny if you turned your head and closed one eye. And then the other eye with it. But truly it was the closes she was going to get with these clouds. Most were a dark grey and traveling together like a herd of sheep. “Cat’s eye?” Sera asked curiously. Was that around where they were or was that the other way? So many taverns with Cat in their name. “More wine?” Sera asked with raised eyebrows. “Are you planning on drinking yourself under the table?” she asked, peering uselessly at Lone’s shoulders, anything else would mean moving and moving meant irritating Nan who seemed ill-tempered enough.
Sera paused when Lone started to speak again, his words rushing together as he rambled with the occasional insult or jab thrown her way. With a small grin at the cute little vulnerability, she helped Lone kill the moment poking the back of his head a bit roughly, probably inadvisable on a horse but regardless, “Toadstools are usually the poisonous ones you know,” she continued a bit smugly, “Are you trying to poison me now?” she asked in feigned horror, “Killed in his own home by a fungi,” she mused in shock. “And yes I do so love my trees, but I can’t say I’d like being stranded at home sweet stump,” she elaborated with a shrug, “Not the figure for it? Well I guess that makes two of us doesn’t it?” She said with a dramatic sigh and a pause, “It’s ok Nan, we don’t need a swamp figures.” She was pretty sure she just heard the horse snort. She was ready to take a few more jabs at him when she felt the droplets. Ears twitching slightly she glanced up at the clouds. Lone tried to point to the inn, but it wasn’t too easy to see from where she was seated behind him. Dismounting as they neared the stables she easily caught the bag Lone tossed to her. “Alright, meet you inside,” she called already hustling to the tavern before she got soaked. She was pretty sure there was going to be a downpour at this rate.
Hustling inside quickly she wasted no time grabbing a spot for her and Lone to sit at, quick and nimble movements letting her ease through the crowd to grab one of the last tables before someone else could snag it. Especially since they might be sitting there for a while. Eyeing the door while she waited, she made sure to order a water for lone and juice for herself, trying to keep an eye out for her friend and waving him over when he finally entered. She hadn’t even known someone had placed an order for her and Lone already, so the four drinks was a bit of a surprise. Not that the waitress was very helpful as she merely said the gentleman at the bar had ordered them for their table. Glancing around as she waited for Lone to actually join her she tried to pinpoint the ‘gentleman’. Really all she saw was a red faced kid probably a little too drunk at this point. Was someone still a gentleman if they were drunk silly?
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