Group 38 - Chapter 3 - Darkness Awaits

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Jcitalia4
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Post by Jcitalia4 »

A heavy breathing rasped in gaelus's ears. His eyes stung and his arms ached. He saw a flashing motion of silver and an explosion of red. His mind couldn't quite register what was occuring before him. It continued. Through the din of the breathing, which was his own, he heard a noise. A dull, muted noise that continued to repeat itself. With each repitition, it gained clarity and then suddenly Hey!, his head lifted up as if freshly emerging from being submerged in water. He looked in the voices direction, a dark haired elf stared back at him with the most curious of looks on her face. Don't you think that's enough?, she said to him.

Gaelus followed her hands, realizing that they cradled the head of a blonde elf. Further down he saw his own hands wrapped around the grips of blades emerging from the same elf's ruined rib cage. He coughed. Looking up again flashes in his memory returned in a rush just as he returned to himself. The leap into the mage's circle, the failed attack, the immenent death from his bodyguard and the madness that then consumed him. Everything had happened so quickly he couldn't say exactly what happened next. What he did know was that he still lived, and judging by the mess before him, the mage did not. Gaelus grinned at his fortune.

He glanced back at the murdered form. The richness of it's clothing. The power it had wielded, and with such little protection. That old familiar feeling returned to Gaelus. And with the mage's death he felt cheated all the more because of it. His envy grew rapidly, How are you worthy of such power! What would have given you such focus!. With that he plunged his hand into the mage's tattered garments. Whatever it is, that you should be slain by two sparsely equipped elves you don't deserve it!

His inward thoughts were short lived as the din of battle released him from his reverie. Though the field would be theirs, the fighting was far from over. All around him the knights had abandoned their previous discipline and fighting for pride knowing their lives were already lost. Gaelus spat into the mage's ruined corpse for the grief he had caused him this battle. I hope your fellows die more willingly next time... With a quick thought he called to the female shade nearby, Here, help me. We can't let them recover the body.

Gaelus will attempt to regain his senses. He will then attempt a search of the mage's body for valuables. Afterwards he will guard the body in attempt to prevent the Asur from recovering the mage's form, requesting help from Nathra
Cade Thanal (TN: Gaelus Stormscythe) (Group 38 warrior)
WS3 S4 T3 D4 I5
Equipment: Light Armor, Short Sword, Repeating Handbow (9/10), Helmet, Asur Short Sword, High elf Mage-prince pelt, Lion pelt cloak, Sword belt with gold buckle and sapphire, 10 gold
Skills: Disguise

Dolan Steelshorn
WS4 S5 T5 D3 I2
Equipment: Glaive, medium armor, shield
Skills: Endurance

Taldein, the Draich'Arha (CC Thread)
WS4 S3 T4 D3 I4
Equipment: Draich (EP4), Helmet (EP1), Pendant
Skills: Power of Ulgu (1)
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Minigrift
... And Hell Followed
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Post by Minigrift »

Nathra's actions seemed quite unnecessary, for despite the fact the foolish warrior had no less than a dozen Asur knights vying for his blood with vengeance in their hearts and she had slipped by the Asur circle unwitnessed, the warrior still miraculously managed to get to the mage as the same time she did. Not such a failure after all, then. She had robbed him of the satisfaction of a successful hunt by ending the mages life before the warrior chopped him into itty-bitty pieces. The warrior had denied his wisdom for anger and was all but chopping at a corpse in his rage.

"Don't you think that's enough?" She found herself saying as she looked up at him, head tilted to the side curiously. The Asur were in disarray but still they lingered and were coming to avenge their fallen comrade. The warrior was just standing there like an idiot while, unbeknown to him, the knights were still after his blood.

The shade moved out quickly, brushing past the warrior as he stood dumbfounded over the mages corpse. She quickly notched a shuriken ready to throw and distract the nearest knight who carried a shield, she coiled her arm, took aim and flicked it towards him. Nathra was already sprinting towards him and the knight moved his shield to block her projectile, Nathra grinned even as she jumped, brought both feet up and, with bent knees, smashed them full-force into that shield. The knight staggered backwards into his companions as Nathra span in mid-air and drew her sword before landing smoothly on fer feet.

Nathra did not waste any time for the moment she landed she was already rolling into the fray... Who cares? He's dead! And so are the rest of them, they just don't know it yet!

"You going to stand there all day?" She teased him again as she dodged and weaved amongst the harassed knights.

Nathra has ignored Cades call for help but is helping him in other ways... She will work on slaying the rest of the knights in her usual acrobatical manner.
Nathra Severain - Shade (Group 38)
WS:5 S:4 T:2 D:6 I: 3
Skills; Acrobatics; Basic Stealth; Free Running
Equipment: Longsword; Shurikens (6/10); Shade Cloak; Asur Arm & Leg Armour Plates; Misericorde; Gutting Knife
Inventory; Ornate Tiara; Sword Belt; Asuri Orb; 106 gold
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Smiler666
Highborn
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Post by Smiler666 »

Umbra stepped past the twitching body of the first elf he killed and sprang to another, launching hisself feet first into the asur's back and pushing them forward onto the waiting spear of one of the druchii outside of the shield wall. As Umbrastepped up behind a third unsuspecting knight, putting out their eyes and snapping their spine as they fell to their knees the entire regiment of knights seemed to deflate in grief and disappointment then sprang back into action again, but now they fought with the angry desperation of trapped rats, druchii flooded in to the gaps forming in the high elf line and the well-structured defense disintegrated into a swirling melee.

Umbra wanted to know what had brought about this sudden change in the asur, he guessed that someone somewhere in the chain of command had been killed, it might even be the mage. Umbra tapped one of the fighting knights on the shoulder and he turned snarling towards Umbra, completely forgetting the druchii he had been fighting whose sword emerged from the high elf's chest moments later. As the foolish asur collapsed Umbra pulled their shield from their arm and put his own shoulder against the ithilmar plate, keeping his head low and his limbs tucked behind the shield Umbra charged towards the middle of the high elf formation.

Umbra will trick one of the knights into handing over their shield, then charge toward the middle of the knights where Nathra and Cade are fighting.
Opus vos liberaverit
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Nightcall
Malekith's Personal Guard
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Post by Nightcall »

Cade was snapped out of his frenzy by the words of the lithe shade, who made no pause in joining the carnage that was to be. As the Druchii sank their weapons into the last few Asur, the sorceresses hastened their work by sending a maelstrom of bolts from their magically summoned storm. Each fork of purple lightning lit the battlefield with ultraviolet light as they tore through the sky. Those that they struck convulsed in agony, then fell to the ground, their flesh blackened and shrivelled by the dhar. Fortunately for the Druchii, few of these bolts hit their own warriors.

Cade looked at the mess that was the Mage, his head rolled back looking skywards with dead eyes. His robes were now red with blood, which had flowed through and stained the feathers of his slain great eagle, and the fingers of one hand were clasped tightly around his golden staff in a death grip. The blue stone rippled and shimmered with each strike of dhar, almost as if it had a sentience and was still trying to protect its master. Cade rummaged through the Mage's robes, but was soon halted in his efforts by an iron grip; a heavy hand grasping his shoulder.

Nathra paused as twelve heavily armoured Druchii marched through the melee. Clad in plate and chainmail, their armour was lacquered black, and their cone shaped helms covered their entire faces. Each carried a long shield and a sword, and bore the crest of House Thaekan. The General's personal retainers, they were sent to see to the recovery of the Mage's corpse. One of them pulled Cade from the body as another lifted the lifeless elf up and flung him over a shoulder. A third lifted the staff and wrapped it in a piece of dark cloth before following the group's leader. The first elf then gripped Cade by his upper arms. 'The General wants to see you. You're coming with us.' Cade was in no position to argue as his hands were bound with a chain and he was led roughly away with the sinister retinue.

Nathra's curiosity caused her to follow at a safe distance, her instincts and years of experience helping her to travel unnoticed. She changed her pace constantly, taking an opportunity to finish a wounded or unsuspecting elf, before then dashing onwards to keep up with the party. Unbeknown to her, a second shade was also following, eager to see what the fuss was all about. Slight of build, with a certain wretchedness about him, he was far more accustomed to hiding from the face of danger than she.

Heldrana had lost Umbra in the chaos that followed the slaying of the Mage. Caught up in the swirl of battle, she had found herself pushed towards the Chracians. This time, the Witches of the Temple were nearby, aided by a white haired fanatic, who's locks were now stained with gore. Severed limbs covered the churned up mud of the battlefield as agonised screams mingled with shrieks of elation. Mutilated elves lay moaning in despair amid the still corpses of their brethren. The corsair took her chances and joined the fight.

It would all be over in a matter of moments.

Cade has been taken prisoner and is being marched towards the General's outlook.

Nathra and Umbra are following, killing here and there along the way.

Heldrana has bumped into Khitai and the pair are joining the slaughter of the last few Chracians.

Kailleth has not survived the battle.

The main Druchii force is now destroying the Asur knights whom they outnumber. There are less than 60 left, and less than 50 Chracians remaining.

((Moving things along))
Casaythe Blackstorm - Warrior (Corsair) - Group 22
Skills: Awareness, Endurance
Equipment: Short Sword, Glaive, Medium Armour, Sea Dragon Cloak, Repeater Crossbow, clip of bolts [11/20], 405 gold, Talisman of Darkness, Tool Kit, 2 months' rations
Stats: WS4, S4, T5, D3, I4

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Smiler666
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Post by Smiler666 »

Umbra careened into the center of the high elves as they were butchered around him and immediately balked as a group of heavily armed druchii with the air of guards about them came into view, escorting a corsair from the melee. Doing his best to blend in against the backdrop of the combat going on around him, his skills that had seemed clumsy compared to those in the caravan made him nigh invisible in the battleground amongst elves who had never wanted a day in their lives. Umbra watched as the guards and their charge marched through the throng, cutting down those on either side that got in their way, and then as the harpy-feathered shadow he had seen use his bowshots to enter the combat followed.

Overcome with curiosity at the debacle unfolding before him, Umbra crept after the odd group, simultaneously avoiding the various skirmishes that the fighting had devolved into and using them to mask hisself from the druchii he was stalking.

Umbra will avoid fighting and track Nathra, Cade and the lord's men to wherever they are going.
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Assani
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Post by Assani »

Bodys layed all over, dead and half dead. Khitai was now facing the last of the chracians, some better armed then others. He stabbed and sliced all that he could, sometimes without controll. He just couldn't fulfill his hunger for blood and death.

A sword came at him, straight to his face. With a quick and agile move he ducked down and fell down on his right knee. He pushed himself around with his left knee and stabbed his enemy in the leg. As Khitai raised himself up, he sliced a badly wounded white elf beside him who was trying to reach for his sword.
Again on his feet, Khitai made short work of the wounded attacker by thrusting both his scimitars towards his enemys chest. One was parried away, but one made it thru the defense, one more was sent to afterlife.

Fighting
Image

Khitai - Khanite - Group 38
WS5 - S3 - T2 - D5 - I3
Skills: Ambidexterity, Two Weapon Fighting
Equipment: 2xfine scimitars, dagger
Inventory: Gold 30, Crowns 40, 1 Red ruby
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Minigrift
... And Hell Followed
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Joined: Tue Feb 10, 2009 10:52 am
Location: Scotland

Post by Minigrift »

Nathra danced amongst the remaining knights quickly dispatching them with quick, accurate strikes of her blade. The beautiful shade never liked to waste effort needlessly and every blow she struck found it's mark, though she did have a little help, it was not long before the last of them fell as her sword pierced his heart. Hah, and I thought these guys were supposed to be good. Oh well...

She looked back from the carnage she had wrought and curiously noted a dozen armoured Druchii surrounding the foolish warrior. One picked up the dead mage, another wrapped up his staff and a few more clasped the mage-killer in chains and dragged him off. Wants to see him? Of all people... Oh, this should be interesting.

Were his actions to seen as an act or bravery of fooliishness? He dropped the standard, likely a sacrilegious offence by most commanding officers, Nathra certainly wouldn't tolerate it but, she surmised, there was probably more to it than that. His foolhardiness enabled him to kill the mage and, judging by the actions of the generals retainers, he and his staff were important. But why were they important? One way to find.

Nathra's curiosity was piqued and she decided to follow the generals retainers at a safe distance. Boldly, the shade moved amongst the various skirmishes as she followed the prisoner through the corpse littered battlefield. She found the corpse of the first knight she had slain, his face a bloody, pulpy mess, and quickly crouched down next to it. She quickly rummaged through his equipment, taking any valuables and weapons she could use for herself. You held so much promise, my friend, but some promises are empty, broken. You challenged me? I wish it were so... She looked around for the corpse of the other knight she had slain in single combat and found him face down in the dirt amongst piles of his comrades. She quickly went through his belongings as well.

The group she was following was not quickly getting away, but she most definitely did not want to miss what the general had to say to him. She dashed after them, weaving amongst the battlefield debris effortlessly until she could follow the group from the shadows.

Nathra will loot the two knights corpses for any gold, valuables, weapons or any thing else than an adventuring rogue might find useful.
She'll follow Cade and try and get as close as possible without giving her position away - she is most interested in why the general wants to see the warrior.
Nathra Severain - Shade (Group 38)
WS:5 S:4 T:2 D:6 I: 3
Skills; Acrobatics; Basic Stealth; Free Running
Equipment: Longsword; Shurikens (6/10); Shade Cloak; Asur Arm & Leg Armour Plates; Misericorde; Gutting Knife
Inventory; Ornate Tiara; Sword Belt; Asuri Orb; 106 gold
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Mostlyharmless
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Post by Mostlyharmless »

Through the turmoil of the fighting, Heldrana had lost track of the shade. He was probably dead, for all she knew. At the moment, she found herself pushed back into the Chracians, suddenly back to back with a wailing fanatic, flailing about with a pair of scimitars. An impractical fighting style, from her perspective, but she wasn't about to criticize another warrior's swordsmanship in the thick of combat.

She resolved herself to watch this warrior's back, as it was also nice to have something big, loud and distracting keeping attention away from her. She worked her stolen axe in graceful arcs, severing limbs and the hafts of weapons alike. She knew these Chracians would be sore to see a Druchii wielding one of their own weapons. Good for them. Being sore makes them angry. Angry fighters make mistakes.

Out of bubblegum, so killing elves instead
Heldrana Doomtide (Group 38 - Warrior)
WS:4 S:4 T:3 D:4 I:3
Equipment: Sea Dragon Cloak, Leather Armour, Buckler, Short Sword, Throwing Daggers (4), 1 flask of wine, tinderbox, 5 gold coins, Chracian Axe (2 handed weapon)
Skills: none
Jcitalia4
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Post by Jcitalia4 »

Gaelus looked up as he saw the shade tumble away, spinning about the knights. I guess I'm on my own then. No sooner had he thought this that a iron grip clasped around his searching forearm. Wheeled about, he came face to face with a heavily armored druchii warrior. He instantly recognized him as one of the general's personal retainers. Everything about his aspect was meant to appear dreadful. Ironic that the only thing running through Gaelus' mind at the time was that this worthless maggot had no idea who he was putting his hands on. Gaelus then had to remind himself that his old life was dead, for the time being. Only Cade Thanal, a lowly mercenary remained. He wiped the sneering look from his face with great effort.

The General wants to see you. You're coming with us., he spoke to him. Gaelus shrugged. The fighting was pretty much over, no use risking being one of the unlucky last casualties in a battle already won. What he didn't understand was why his wrists were now being bound and shackled like some common prisoner. Why have you shackled me?, he asked the retainer.

You can ask the dear general yourself when you appear before him, if you choose., he replied. One of his compatriots letting loose an eerie chuckle at his response. Damnit, just my luck. Kill the enemy general and made a prisoner for it. Druchii nobility were ever mad. It was no wonder they had been unsuccessful in taking their ancestral homeland from their softbellied cousins for so many millenia, with such foolishness as this.

The din of battle slowly dissipated behind him. The General's overwatch looming closer. Gaelus's mind raced to think of all the possible scenarios to explain the purpose of his shackling. With each scenario, he focused on gaming the outcome and his own actions. This would be a great test. If he wanted to come out of this on top, he would have to be preparred. Every word, spoken and unspoken, will have to be delivered perfectly and with flexibility. Focus Gaelus...

Gaelus will follow his escort back to the General. He will use his time to mentally prepare himself for appearing before him
Cade Thanal (TN: Gaelus Stormscythe) (Group 38 warrior)
WS3 S4 T3 D4 I5
Equipment: Light Armor, Short Sword, Repeating Handbow (9/10), Helmet, Asur Short Sword, High elf Mage-prince pelt, Lion pelt cloak, Sword belt with gold buckle and sapphire, 10 gold
Skills: Disguise

Dolan Steelshorn
WS4 S5 T5 D3 I2
Equipment: Glaive, medium armor, shield
Skills: Endurance

Taldein, the Draich'Arha (CC Thread)
WS4 S3 T4 D3 I4
Equipment: Draich (EP4), Helmet (EP1), Pendant
Skills: Power of Ulgu (1)
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Nightcall
Malekith's Personal Guard
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Joined: Wed Jan 25, 2012 8:16 pm
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Post by Nightcall »

Druchii scoured the littered battlefield, turning over corpses, rooting through their valuables, and dispatching the wounded as the setting sun cast a red wash over the forsaken Shadowlands. High and Dark elves alike were finished with merciless deathblows; the severely wounded were too big a burden to bear. The General needed fighting elves and did not have time for the recuperation of the incapacitated. Carrion birds had begun to circle overhead as the ripe stench of death started to linger around, their caws and croaks mingling with the groans of the injured or dying. A raven settled upon the armoured corpse of a Kailleth and greedily gobbled up an eye. His adventure ended here.

Nathra searched the bodies of the two honourable knights that she had earlier fought. Loosening a misericorde from the belt of the first, she smiled as she found a small pouch on the second which contained amongst some personal mementoes, three pieces of gold. She discarded the small statues of the elf's wife and children, leaving them to become trampled underfoot by the other troops. She could see the guards escorting the one that had helped her kill the Mage were not wasting any time, and so she continued to follow carefully at a safe distance so as not to be noticed. Each time one of the retainers passed a glance behind himself, she mingled with the Druchii around her. A few yards behind, Umbra did the same.

Cade was hurried onwards, unceremoniously yanked by the chains bound around his wrists if he stumbled or faltered. 'Get a move on, scum. We haven't got all day.' growled the guard with the dead Mage slung over his shoulder. Cade was treated with all the contempt of an enemy or traitor as he was ushered through the battlefield, Druchii moving aside to let the company pass. Eventually they reached a small rise jutting from the gentle hillside overlooking the battlefield where General Ghol Thaekan sat upon a black steed. The horse was muscular for a Druchii mount, and clad in armour and barding of Thaekan's House. Beside him stood the two sorceresses who eyed Cade with predatory stares as he approached. One leaned towards the General and whispered something into his ear, to which he nodded. Six more retainers sat on horse with the Druchii Lord, along with a musician and the army's standard-bearer.

'We have recovered the Mage, as ordered my lord. And your prisoner.'

'Good.' replied General Thaekan with a voice as hard as granite and equally as cold. 'Give the staff and the corpse to the sorceresses. As for him...' Cade was shoved forwards by one of the guards behind him 'He and I are going to have a little chat, aren't we?' he added, staring Cade directly in the eye with a smile that suggested terrible things.

'Yes my lord.' The guard replied. All of the party bowed, then followed the sorceresses leaving Cade alone before the General, and his mounted retinue.

Nathra and Umbra had managed to get within listening distance, using the terrain to conceal themselves. The light was dim. Umbra had seen Nathra, but had she seen him? The male shade was not sure how she would respond if she saw that he was trailing her. He had seen how she threw those shuriken, and had no desire to have one thrown at him. He watched her carefully from his hiding place, ready to respond if he had to.

Lord Thaekan observed the Druchii for a few moments before rubbing his chin thoughtfully. 'A pity that Lord Chillbane led our entire nauglir cavalry to their doom. I will need someone to replace him.'

Cade's heart quickened as the opportunity of a reward flashed through his mind. The General continued, 'That sergeant of yours. Can he ride?'

As he waited for a reply he added, 'You lost your regimental standard in that foolish charge of yours. I am sure you are well aware of the punishment for such folly. I am in a mind to have it remade, its cloth replaced with flayed skin. What do you think?' He threw Cade an expression that reminded the Druchii of the way a cold one looks at his dinner.

Back on the battlefield, peals and blasts were blown from battle horns as the troops were called to regroup. The Asur were utterly destroyed. The day was won.


Nathra & Umbra are eavesdropping. Umbra knows Nathra is there, but has she seen him yet? ((A good opportunity to meet each other, but not a good opportunity for a chat as you don't really want to be caught))

Cade, ugh oh! The interrogation has begun.

Khitai & Heldrana, both have an opportunity to loot before being called back to regroup.


((There will be more to come for Heldrana and Khitai, don't worry, I'm not ignoring them!))


Nathra, + 1 misericorde (a type of long stabbing dagger), + 3 gold.
Casaythe Blackstorm - Warrior (Corsair) - Group 22
Skills: Awareness, Endurance
Equipment: Short Sword, Glaive, Medium Armour, Sea Dragon Cloak, Repeater Crossbow, clip of bolts [11/20], 405 gold, Talisman of Darkness, Tool Kit, 2 months' rations
Stats: WS4, S4, T5, D3, I4

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Minigrift
... And Hell Followed
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Joined: Tue Feb 10, 2009 10:52 am
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Post by Minigrift »

The generals retinue eventually reached a gentle rise on the battlefield where the man himself sat upon a muscular dark steed as if the creature were a throne. Nathra distanced herself from them to skirt around the shadowy edges of the clearing to find a place to spy on them away from any undue attention of the remainder of the army. She found a comfortable spot then knelt down low amongst a cluster of high grasses and bushes.

She again noted the presence of the emasculate figure following her - rather, following the same people she was following and probably for the same reasons. The shade scarcely glanced at him - her piercing emerald eyes hinting at... something - before she returned her attention to the debacle unfolding before her.

The general began to speak, his tone hard and cold. His comments ambiguous, his intent unclear.

Watching and listening.
Nathra Severain - Shade (Group 38)
WS:5 S:4 T:2 D:6 I: 3
Skills; Acrobatics; Basic Stealth; Free Running
Equipment: Longsword; Shurikens (6/10); Shade Cloak; Asur Arm & Leg Armour Plates; Misericorde; Gutting Knife
Inventory; Ornate Tiara; Sword Belt; Asuri Orb; 106 gold
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Smiler666
Highborn
Posts: 618
Joined: Wed Jun 08, 2011 9:30 am
Location: The Colonies

Post by Smiler666 »

Umbra tracked the gaolers and the harpy-winged shade (OOC: happy now MG :P ) back across the battlefield, using the handful of remaining skirmishes and returning druchii as cover to hide hisself from his quarry. Eventually the black-armoured druchii came to a halt in front of General Thaekan and female shade ducked down below the lip of the rise, Umbra continued to creep towards them then froze. The shade was looking right at him. She seemed equal parts curious and sinister, his stealth had made him feel secure again, but the shade had torn that away. The shade looked away again and Umbra's panic began to recede slightly and he scrambled to the lip of the rise as well, as far from the shade as possible, keeping his eyes on the scene in front of him.

Avoiding the scary lady and seeing what happens with Mr Thanal
Opus vos liberaverit
Jcitalia4
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Posts: 360
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Post by Jcitalia4 »

Gaelus stood alone before his general on the hilltop. Shackled and weary, the buffets of wind threatened to shake his resolve. The General looked down on him with an airyness common to the great nobles of naggaroth. He seemed amused at the situation he had placed Gaelus. In his mind, Gaelus saw himself spitting on the ground in disgust at the look. Only sound judgement and recognizing it was no time to be prideful stopped him from performing such an action.

The General spoke, A pity that Lord Chillbane led our entire nauglir cavalry to their doom. I will need someone to replace him. That sergeant of yours. Can he ride?. Gaelus rose his head at the question. Saulk had indeed showed prowess and command during the fight, but enough to receive a knighthood and place amognst the nobles, and not only that, upon a Nauglir? No... that's not it. He means to toy with me.. Gaelus remained silent for a time.

The General continued, You lost your regimental standard in that foolish charge of yours. I am sure you are well aware of the punishment for such folly. I am in a mind to have it remade, its cloth replaced with flayed skin. What do you think?. There it is. Finally, the real reason I am here. Unbelieveable..., Gaelus thought to himself.

He collected himself, rising to his full height. He made sure he had the General's full attention, and that he was not still lost in his own sadistic thoughts before speaking. Lord General, as to your first question. Whether or not Saulk's old sea legs can ride, I cannot say with any validity. Surely, given enough incentive, however, I imagine he would figure it out quite quickly., Gaelus stated, almost blandly as if the topic was not the true importance of this conversation.

As to my charge, well, I would like to say it was a calculated action because it is through such sponaneity that battles can be won or lost. Had my charge been unsuccessful, then yes, it would have been very foolish action and would have most likely ended in my death, your previous knight commander a great case and point. However, when suchs actions are made by those who can carry them out and are successful, well, they can break the spine of your enemy's willpower. As you might have guessed, it was my blades that fell the Asurii mage-prince. While we probably would have carried the day in the end, the prince might have escaped with his elite retinue or even worse, left us with enough casualties to cause severe hinderance in our invasion. A standard for the battlefield, that was the trade and as you have suggested standards can always be remade., Gaelus spoke. Some of it was prepared from his thoughts during his walk to the generals outlook, however, much of it was from the moment.

Now to the suggestion of material, I am assuming you mean to hint at my own. While you might not outwardly approve of my actions, you need someone like me. You need someone who can think on their feet and has the prowess, guile and skill necessary to back up their actions with success. I have already proven this truth with the mage's death. It was also my very suggestion to my sergeant that brought our unit about to fire the eagle out of the sky. Yes, I believe I am an asset that you would be better to have at your disposal than made an example of. Might I suggest an alternative, Lord General? While there are many choice cuts of Asur out on the field, your Lord Chillbane, named foolish for losing you your knights, might resonate the exact example you mean to make while at the same time keeping me as a resource you have to use for the future. Having stated his case, he made sure to stand resolute. Now would not be the time to show weakness. He must appear to be indeed what he said.

Gaelus will make his case and hopefully avoid the flayers!
Cade Thanal (TN: Gaelus Stormscythe) (Group 38 warrior)
WS3 S4 T3 D4 I5
Equipment: Light Armor, Short Sword, Repeating Handbow (9/10), Helmet, Asur Short Sword, High elf Mage-prince pelt, Lion pelt cloak, Sword belt with gold buckle and sapphire, 10 gold
Skills: Disguise

Dolan Steelshorn
WS4 S5 T5 D3 I2
Equipment: Glaive, medium armor, shield
Skills: Endurance

Taldein, the Draich'Arha (CC Thread)
WS4 S3 T4 D3 I4
Equipment: Draich (EP4), Helmet (EP1), Pendant
Skills: Power of Ulgu (1)
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Assani
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Post by Assani »

He pulled his scimitars out of his enemy who fell lifeless to the ground. He looked around ready to charge his next victim, no one was to be seen near him. The only one standing around him was his kinsmen, some wounded, but most of them tired.

He slowly lowered his weapons and then sheeted them. He was still in a killing, hunting trance, but he felt his body cooling down and getting back to normal state.
Feeling his body relaxing more, he started to search some of the dead body's, hoping to find his paycheck.

Searching/looting the dead
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Khitai - Khanite - Group 38
WS5 - S3 - T2 - D5 - I3
Skills: Ambidexterity, Two Weapon Fighting
Equipment: 2xfine scimitars, dagger
Inventory: Gold 30, Crowns 40, 1 Red ruby
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Minigrift
... And Hell Followed
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Post by Minigrift »

Nathra held her breath as she waited for the warrior to speak. The general had hinted at terrible things that he might entertain himself and his unseen guests with, the shade was curious about what he might do to his detainee since he had done good and bad things, irrespectively. Will the good out way the bad? Will the fool bumble his way out of the situation in an agreeable manner to his person? The puppet has strings, but how shall he be played?

However, once the prisoner had started his banal speech in his own defence, Nathra was bored even after the first few sentences. As she listened half-heartedly Nathra inspected the misericorde. A fine weapon, a touch ostentatious... It would suite her well, up close and personal just as she liked it, inviting them with a kiss and ending them with a thrust to the heart.

"You need someone who can think on their feet and has the prowess, guile and skill necessary to back up their actions with success. I have already proven this truth with the mage's death." She held back a contemptuous sneer at this comment, simultaneously applauding the warrior for his audacity. Fluke and luck, perhaps a modicum of skill. Guile is not the equal of rage, you denied your wisdom for anger and somehow you survived the ordeal. I wonder which Goddess smiles upon you...

Nathra looked across at the other watcher in the dark, her eyebrow raised in a curious manner as she wondered what the other shade was thinking about all of this.

Watching and listening.
Nathra Severain - Shade (Group 38)
WS:5 S:4 T:2 D:6 I: 3
Skills; Acrobatics; Basic Stealth; Free Running
Equipment: Longsword; Shurikens (6/10); Shade Cloak; Asur Arm & Leg Armour Plates; Misericorde; Gutting Knife
Inventory; Ornate Tiara; Sword Belt; Asuri Orb; 106 gold
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Mostlyharmless
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Post by Mostlyharmless »

Heldrana was breathing heavily, exhausted. Killing was hard work, and she was unaccustomed to wielding such a heavy weapon. She stalked throughout the field of corpses, dispatching any Asur wounded, snatching what loot she could find, going so far as attempting to take the armour from one of the knights she had killed. It was expensive stuff, and would fetch a fine price, even for just the gold and ithilmar.

Despite the weight of it, she rather liked the axe she had pilfered from the Chracian. She decided to hang on to it for a while. Still, it would take alot more wealth to do what needed to be done. She returned to the task at hand, taking care to get the finest pieces she could find.

lootin', possibly pollutin'
Heldrana Doomtide (Group 38 - Warrior)
WS:4 S:4 T:3 D:4 I:3
Equipment: Sea Dragon Cloak, Leather Armour, Buckler, Short Sword, Throwing Daggers (4), 1 flask of wine, tinderbox, 5 gold coins, Chracian Axe (2 handed weapon)
Skills: none
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Smiler666
Highborn
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Post by Smiler666 »

The moment the general opened his mouth Umbra stiffened, Thaekan's voice dripped with the superiority of nobility, the kind of voice that came with the whips and beatings back at the caravan, a similar voice to the one that had convinced him to leave the safety of the city and come to this wall-less place. Umbra rolled onto his back and drew an arrow from his quiver, he nocked it into the black-painted bow and was almost to his feet when the corsair prisoner started talking and brought Umbra back to his senses, he dropped down onto his back with his bow still held strung across his chest and listened as the prisoner began his ramblings.

Umbra didn't like the prisoner's tone of voice either, he sounded at least as arrogant as the general and Umbra wondered what someone with such blue blood was doing among the corsair rabble. Umbra hadn't seen whatever this elf had done, but losing a standard is considered bad form from what he knew, however the way the prisoner told it he was the hero of the battle. "your Lord Chillbane, named foolish for losing you your knights, might resonate the exact example you mean to make while at the same time keeping me as a resource you have to use for the future," Umbra barely contained a growl, coward! Selling out a fellow for the sake of your own pathetic hide, Umbra was still sure which side he would be on if things turned bad, but it seemed it would be the lesser of two evils.

nocking an arrow then continuing vigil.
Opus vos liberaverit
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Nightcall
Malekith's Personal Guard
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Post by Nightcall »

Heldrana let her axe fall through the chest of an archer, who died with a short cry. Kneeling down, she rummaged through his belongings, finding a small pouch of healing herbs, but nothing else of value. She kicked his corpse. 'Lowlife pauper!' She was reminded then of her injured left forearm, the deep gash throbbing painfully. Now that the battle was over, it was time to look for a chirugeon or at least some catgut and a needle. That arm needed stitching up.

Khitai had more luck, finding ten gold, before prising a ruby from a slain knight's chestplate. It glistened like a drop of spilled blood, and the Khainite smiled whimsically at the stone before he tucked it away safely. The Hag whooped an order to her maibds, and Khitai decided to follow. Bloody revels and celebrations would likely be in order.

General Thaekan stared thoughtfully at Cade as the Druchii spoke with carefully measured words. 'You are quite right. Your actions helped hasten the end of the battle. You really are an asset.'His lip curled into a smirk as he mulled over the elf's word. 'You suggest I flay Chillbane? No... I have a better idea.' He nodded to one of his mounted retainers, who walked his horse forward and grabbed Cade's chains. 'Take him away.' the General ordered. 'This one's reckless courage and death defying antics will give the host a lot of inspiration.' With a yank, Cade was led off to the flayers.

As the Lord watched his struggle against his bonds, he commented, 'Now to find that swift footed female with the odd cloak. She too must be rewarded.'

Cade's troubles aren't over yet. Heading to the flayers.

Nathra's efforts too have been noted. Does she react?

Umbra still lying low.

Khitai is following the Witch Elves.

Heldrana needs to find someone to stitch up her arm.


Heldrana, + 1 pouch of healing herbs.

Khitai, + 10 gold, + 1 ruby.


((Bringing the pieces together!))
Casaythe Blackstorm - Warrior (Corsair) - Group 22
Skills: Awareness, Endurance
Equipment: Short Sword, Glaive, Medium Armour, Sea Dragon Cloak, Repeater Crossbow, clip of bolts [11/20], 405 gold, Talisman of Darkness, Tool Kit, 2 months' rations
Stats: WS4, S4, T5, D3, I4

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Minigrift
... And Hell Followed
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Post by Minigrift »

The warrior was taken away. To where, Nathra was not sure, and there was only one way to find out. Neither was she sure of what was going to happen to him, was he to be rewarded for his stupidity or flayed for his bravery? Seemed an odd way of going about things. Nathra cautiously began crawling backwards to extricate herself from the generals presence and find out what fate was to befall the warrior.

'Now to find that swift footed female with the odd cloak. She too must be rewarded.'

This made Nathra stop to reconsider. What possible reward could you offer me? Wealth, power, a place in your pathetic army? Or am I to be made an example of like the warrior before me? Not interested. The shade silently merged into the shadows as she moved to follow the generals retainer and his prisoner. Besides, nothing odd about my cloak.

Nathra will stick to the shadows/forest as she follows the retainer and Cade to the flayers.
Nathra Severain - Shade (Group 38)
WS:5 S:4 T:2 D:6 I: 3
Skills; Acrobatics; Basic Stealth; Free Running
Equipment: Longsword; Shurikens (6/10); Shade Cloak; Asur Arm & Leg Armour Plates; Misericorde; Gutting Knife
Inventory; Ornate Tiara; Sword Belt; Asuri Orb; 106 gold
Jcitalia4
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Post by Jcitalia4 »

The generals judgement sounded numbly on Gaelus' ears. He stood there in disbelief, the rest of the world seemed a dull and distant thing in that moment. The only thing occupying his mind as he tried to recover was the hard thumping of his own heart beat in his head. A shove awoke Gaelus from his stupor, and his guards started to drag him away from the general. He glared back at his would be commander, Damn your eyes! You will regret this....

He debated revealing his house and position, but decided against it. It was a lower house with minimal repute as of late. At the best, it would result in likely slavery, at the worst, they wouldn't even believe him and things would go far worse for him as the penalties for impersonating a noble are severe indeed.

Here we are again old boy, he thought to himself. Not just a few months prior was he facing the prospect of a terrible crime committed and disgracing his house. This wasn't the first time he had been accosted unjustly by the whims of nobility. He'd disappeared once, he could do it again. A simple and subtle change in appearance and mannerism, one of which he knew he did well growing up toying with his siblings, and one could walk about unmasked and unknown with surprising ease. It was all in how you carried yourself.

Maybe the corsair life really wasn't for me, I wonder what it might be like to ride?, he thought. First things first, how to get out my present situation.... He looked about for any opening to overpower his guards and make his escape, it would have to be near something that would unclasp his chains, for moving about inconspicuously in irons was a very impossible task indeed.

Gaelus will attempt to look for an opportunity to escape. If such an opporutunity presents itself, he will take it. Firstly looking to unchain himself, secondly looking to slightly change his appearance and thirdly, trying to calmly blend in and move away.
Cade Thanal (TN: Gaelus Stormscythe) (Group 38 warrior)
WS3 S4 T3 D4 I5
Equipment: Light Armor, Short Sword, Repeating Handbow (9/10), Helmet, Asur Short Sword, High elf Mage-prince pelt, Lion pelt cloak, Sword belt with gold buckle and sapphire, 10 gold
Skills: Disguise

Dolan Steelshorn
WS4 S5 T5 D3 I2
Equipment: Glaive, medium armor, shield
Skills: Endurance

Taldein, the Draich'Arha (CC Thread)
WS4 S3 T4 D3 I4
Equipment: Draich (EP4), Helmet (EP1), Pendant
Skills: Power of Ulgu (1)
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Smiler666
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Post by Smiler666 »

Umbra poses as one of the armies scouts and informs the general that asur that managed to flee the battle are spreading stories of a pair of druchii warriors who single handedly killed the mage. With a bit of luck that will convince the general that Nathra and Cade are worth not skinning alive.
Opus vos liberaverit
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Assani
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Post by Assani »

All dead, but the witches contiuned the cheering and screaming. It was probably their for of celecration

He stared to search true some dead body, hoping to find some loot. And after a while, his pouch was 10 gold and a fine read ruby heavier.

The witches started to move away, and he decided to follow.

Looting and following the witches
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Khitai - Khanite - Group 38
WS5 - S3 - T2 - D5 - I3
Skills: Ambidexterity, Two Weapon Fighting
Equipment: 2xfine scimitars, dagger
Inventory: Gold 30, Crowns 40, 1 Red ruby
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Mostlyharmless
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Joined: Tue Jan 16, 2007 5:33 am

Post by Mostlyharmless »

Her arm was throbbing now. The adrenaline rush was subsiding, and now Heldrana could feel the pain from the wounds she had endured. Everything else was minor, but her arm needed a chirugeon.

She picked her way across the battlefield to find the medical tents. She could hear the screams of agony as the 'doctors' did their work. She was glad of the wine she had drunk before. Chances were she would need alot more soon.

She burst through the tent flap and approached the nearest druchii with a blood-slick apron. She pulled off the makeshift bandage and lay her injured arm on the table.

"Stitch it up."

off to see the doctors
Heldrana Doomtide (Group 38 - Warrior)
WS:4 S:4 T:3 D:4 I:3
Equipment: Sea Dragon Cloak, Leather Armour, Buckler, Short Sword, Throwing Daggers (4), 1 flask of wine, tinderbox, 5 gold coins, Chracian Axe (2 handed weapon)
Skills: none
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Nightcall
Malekith's Personal Guard
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Post by Nightcall »

As night fell over the Shadowlands, a skinny wretch of an elf presented himself to Thaekan and his retinue. The lord stared down at the elf, clearly irritated by the interruption. 'What is the meaning of this?'

Umbra introduced himself as one of the host's surviving scouts, and gave a full report of the valour of the warrior and harpy wing wearing female in their victory over the mage. He noticed that hands were gripped on sword hilts as the general and his retinue listened silently, and after he had finished, the silence continued for a while.

'Be assured that the one that calls himself Cade, is already getting what he deserves. As too shall this alluring female of which you speak. Find her, and bring her to me.'

With a shooing motion, he was dismissed, and not one to argue, hurried to his task.

Heldrana had now begun to notice the discomfort her wound was causing. If she left it, it might kill her, or at least result in an amputation. She had seen how the butchers calling themselves chirugeons worked, and had no desire for that level of medical care. "Stitch it up." she instructed as she found a healer. Bearing a brand of the rune of Yenlui upon his brow, he nodded and grabbed her arm, the other hand holding a crescent shaped needle stitched with catgut. He pinched the torn flesh together and began. It wouldn't be pretty.

Meanwhile, the Hag had led her blood soaked beauties back to the hillside. Many clutched gory trophies, severed heads and hands, newly made necklaces thread through with fingers, ears, teeth, or other smaller body parts. They were exalted, the victory and slaughter coursing through them, setting their blood alight. Already, sacrifices begun, giving thanks to Khaine, and Asur captives as well as Druchii unfortunate enough to be of no good for future battle were led to a makeshift altar to be blessed by the witches' knife. Khitai followed, joining the ritual in his own way. Khaine had allowed him to prevail this day, and his heart swelled with pious pride.

Cade struggled against his bindings as he was led to a riven cleft in the hillside, out of sight of the now slaughtered Asur. As he pulled and twisted his chain, the horseman yanked him forwards. 'Don't even think about it.' hissed the rider as they reached the shadowy gully. Silent Druchii eyed him as they were interrupted from their work, their skin stained with blood and gore. Cade heard an agonised scream, followed by a tearing sound, then whimpers. An Asur captive was providing some entertainment, and Cade could not help but shiver as the prospect of sharing that very same fate filled his mind.

Nathra followed all the while, no more than a shadow moving from one hiding place to another. If Cade was to be peeled like an onion, she had no desire to reveal herself lest she share the same fate.

The retainer reached his destination and swung from his saddle, still gripping the chains that bound the elf. Before them, Cade saw a skinned body in a pool of drying blood. Flies buzzed lazily around the corpse, and staring more closely, he recognised the ruined ribcage. Was it... 'The Mage.' announced the retainer with a nod, noticing his captive staring.

'I am sure you will appreciate the honour that our dread General has bestowed upon you. Dratil, bring out the standard.'

A Dark Elf clad in an apron over clothing made from flayed hides emerged from the cleft, wiping his bloody hands down himself. Two others followed him, equally as bloody, carrying a black iron standard pole. On its sides were two loops, above these were various spikes for trophy skulls. A crossbeam rested near the top, and from this hung the still wet skin of the Mage, his face pinned near the top of the banner pole, his arms stretched out so that what would have been his hands were bound to either end of the crossbeam. The hide flapped wetly from the pole as it was brought out to Cade. Chilling even to the Dark Elves, it would fill the Asur with absolute terror and rage, smashing the morale of the defenders of their next destination.

The retainer looped Cade's chain through the holes on the banner pole with a grin. 'This is so you do not drop it. The General doesn't like that sort of thing.' The flayers laughed cruelly as the retainer instructed further, 'Now get back to Thaekan. You're to march with him. Don't keep him waiting.'


Umbra has been tasked by the general to find Nathra and bring her to him.

Heldrana, you're in good hands. This might hurt... a bit.

Khitai is partying hard with the witch elves.

Cade, congratulations are in order. You've just become the battle standard bearer.

Nathra has witnessed Cade's terrifying promotion.
Casaythe Blackstorm - Warrior (Corsair) - Group 22
Skills: Awareness, Endurance
Equipment: Short Sword, Glaive, Medium Armour, Sea Dragon Cloak, Repeater Crossbow, clip of bolts [11/20], 405 gold, Talisman of Darkness, Tool Kit, 2 months' rations
Stats: WS4, S4, T5, D3, I4

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Minigrift
... And Hell Followed
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Post by Minigrift »

Nathra easily extricated herself from the small rise on which the general and his retainers were situated. Sticking to the shadows she artfully followed the warrior and his his escorts. She pondered a bit more on the generals oh so tempting offer of a reward. Perhaps if she knew the nature of the reward she might be tempted to mildly reconsider her decision, but she already had the greatest gift someone of her ilk could have and, whatever general Thaeken had in mind, it would in all probability infringe upon that freedom.

The camp was alive with victory celebrations and the tortured moans of those unlucky enough not to survive wholly intact. The witch elves were especially exultant in their revelries, howling and dancing with appropriate glee, probably still high on blood and drugs. Unfortunate druchii being culled by their wicked blades, too injured too play any further part in the campaign - except as entertainment for those brides of the bloody handed God. Damned lunatics. She noted a white-haired male amongst the crowd of debauched flesh, seemingly enjoying himself as any male Khainite would in the company of barely dressed female fanatics. Nathra shook her head in disgust, pitying the unfortunate souls who were to be callously slaughtered to appease the pathetic whims of some silly God.

Swiftly and silently she moved, following the retainers and their guest at a respectful distance. They approached a cleft in the hillside, out of sight to the rest of camp, and made their way inside. The beautiful shade spun her cloak about herself then crept up the side of the hill to eavesdrop on the unfolding spectacle. She too heard the agonised screams of an Asurii captive. At least they have the good sense to slaughter our enemies... But her thought's were interrupted when the warrior was presented his promotion.

Flattened and flayed, a banner of stretched, grotesque skin - the mage, Nathra correctly guessed - was presented to the foolish warrior who looked aghast at what he was presented with. The artificers even had the common sense of putting holes in the banner pole so it would not be dropped again. You make a mockery of this oaf, General, to whom comes a gift of many guises, I would not wish your fate, warrior. I would rather a merciful death than have to live... with this.

It was night time now and everything was dark. Seeking solitude, Nathra slunk away from the scene and crept some distance into the forest to find a place to keep vigil for the night. A place where she could watch the ongoings in camp away from the intrusion of roving eyes. The shade found a suitable tree several metres back from the edge of camp and climbed it without difficulty, even in the pitch black of night. She nestled in the knots of several thick branches, drew her cloak about herself like a cocoon and, taking the meat from her pack, began to chew on it thoughtfully.

Nathra will spend the night comfortably tucked away in a tree as she watches the camps battle celebrations.
Nathra Severain - Shade (Group 38)
WS:5 S:4 T:2 D:6 I: 3
Skills; Acrobatics; Basic Stealth; Free Running
Equipment: Longsword; Shurikens (6/10); Shade Cloak; Asur Arm & Leg Armour Plates; Misericorde; Gutting Knife
Inventory; Ornate Tiara; Sword Belt; Asuri Orb; 106 gold
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