THE ENEMY APPROACHES

[Soleil]

The travel was long from Saelis to Avalendor. None of them ever suspected how far this new Isle of their enemy was. Some were beginning to think they had gotten lost. That perhaps the damn group that had come to save their queen had switched their maps to keep them away from Avalendor. But when they found that single merchant ship with the sails of the enemy, their hopes grew to belief that they were getting closer.

They were in no rush. The longer they took, the more caught off guard Avalendor would be upon their arrival. Their travel rested at day and sailing by night. Their black sails would blend in with the dark star-lit sky.

"My Lord!" A sailor came rushing over, carrying a rolled up map, he was fighting with to keep unrolled. "According to this map...And how long we have been traveling, and the direction we are going in. We should come across Avalendor within the next hour! We will arrive just before midnight. What message shall I send to the other commanders?"

Lord Aramis grinned wickedly and stroked the hairs of his beard in thought. "Thirty ships move in and surround the isle. Attack as soon as they reach it. The rest of the ships, will stay behind, hidden. So they know they are not coming. Make them think they have an easier battle than what they really do..." He chuckled quietly and shooed the man off with his hand. "Relay the message to the other ships. I don't care how, just do it."

The sailor nodded and rushed off, leaving the Lord alone once again. He laughed quietly and shook his head. "...After all these years. After all my father fought to get. After what I have fought to get. It will finally be mine. Avalendor will be no more. . ." His fingers curled into a tight fist and he pounded it against the table he sat at. They would win this war. He was certain of it. There was no possible way that Avalendor's simple, small army, on their new small piece of land, could defeat their armies of 25,000 men. A wide grin crept along his lips. Yes, this was looking a lot more promising now than it ever has before.

.::.||. ~*~ .||.::.

The hour was nearing and there was a knock upon Lord Aramis' door of his cabin. "Enter." The door was quick to be opened and a commander stepped in. "My Lord, the first thirty ships have gone ahead. Avalendor is a matter of a twenty minute sail from where we are now. All of the ships are anchoring now. We will remain, as you have ordered, behind. The thirty ships have gone forward and are making their way to the isle's shore."
He nodded with a small grin. "Aye. Alright. Thank you." There were no words to describe how he was feeling at that very moment. It was finally about to happen. Saelis was about to finally, after over twenty-five years, crush Avalendor and destroy it once and for all. The commander left the room, Lord Aramis felt the ship suddenly stop in its foreward movement. Now, it only rocked by the rough waves caused by the other ships that surrounded it.

.::.||. ~*~ .||.::.

"Right, men! Avalendor is just moments away from our attacks! Are you ready!?" The commander of the first ship, leading the other twenty-nine, stood in front of the soldiers, preparing themselves for their first battle. Their first attack. Would Avaledor be ready for them at such a late time at night? The men shouted and yelled out in agreement with their commander. Their fierce battle cries sounded through the loud crashing waves against the ship they sailed within. The commander yelled out loud enough for them all to hear. "Right then! Of course ye are! When you get there. Spare no one! Avalendor will be ours! Do whatever you have to do to take it!" The men cheered loudly again. Their cries carrying over to the ships behind them. They could hear one another, chanting and shouting their war cries.

.::.||. ~*~ .||.::.

Avalendor was quiet as the midnight hour passed by. Most were asleep in their beds, besides those guards and military members that were on duty for the night shift. Every night, despite the concerns of war never coming to the isle, guards were posted around the shores, watching the horizon for the ships. War was more promising since the old man, they called Pilgrim, and the death of Brennus came with warnings that Saelis could very much be on their way. So the shores were watched very closely.

In the distance, the loud cries could be heard. Several guards strained their eyes, squinting slightly for a better view, until they could make out the sails. Thirty ships. Was this the enemy? They had been expecting a lot more than just thirty ships. Or was it another alliance coming to aid them? Either way, they knew not to take any chances. "Quick! Sound the alarms!" He shouted out to any other guards that were around their posting spot.
Within moments, the loud sounds of the war horn echoed through the isle of Avalendor several times. Not long after, the bell from the tower began to ring, alarming the rest of the isle that war was on its way. . .

Sleep had come less and less for the Navy Commander. The murder of Brennus had bothered him more than he cared to admit. Not that he would miss the man he had never met nor was he sorry for Nemesis' sake that the brute was gone...it was the way in which he was killed.
A merchant ship had been attacked. The enemy was bloodthirsty and was showing no mercy to anyone...this war would claim many he was afraid and he only hoped and prayed that the months of preparing and training would pay to their advantage...and that the enemy would suffer the most lost.

Before retiring to his quarters on his ship, he had watched the darkening sky line and had listened to the sea. The time would be soon. Somewhere out there, beyond the horizon, was the future of Avalendor. Weather they won or lost...the Island would change, their way of life would change..and he hated that thought.

His thoughts turned to Nemesis and the child she carried. What future would there be for the new life that she would bring into the world? For all the mothers who would soon bear their children...he wanted there to be an Avalendor left for the future citizens to fall in love with. He worried for Nemesis..she would now be a target for the enemy in her condition. Somehow however, he knew she would be alright. He would see to that...along with the rest of the armies.

When he finally retired to his bed, he had lain awake for hours before finally closing his eyes in a restless and light sleep. Something was coming and it was not far. With the sound of the alarm and the shouting of his men...he was not surprised. The time had come at last and he was awake, dressed and on the deck of his ship in seconds. Straining his eyes through the brass scope that was given to him as he emerged on deck, he searched in vain through the darkness. He could not see through the....wait. A single lantern, a single light on one of them...perhaps forgotten or thought too insignificant! Kaleb lowered the scope. "Get the message to the armies on the cliffs!" He quickly scribbled the coordinates according to the southern Jetties and the Cliff to the North.
He had no idea of how many there were, but if one ship could be found..the rest would have no choice but show themselves.
"And douse the lamps!...Quickly! It's robbing you of your night sights and sending a beacon out to the enemy!"

The sailor with the message scrambled from the ship and made his way hastily up the hill to the military building and then to the armies camped on the cliffs. The archers would have some idea of at least where one of them were...as would the catapults.

As soon as the man had cleared the plank, it was raised and the ship was readied to sail. Within moments the fleet, along with the allied ships, had formed a circle around the island...none really aware of how close the enemy was.

Now at sea at last, Kaleb gave order for the suits that Thais had instructed to make to be laid out and ready. He himself would lead the underwater strike..but first...to find the enemy Commanders vessel. The time would come soon enough he knew.

Since her talk with Orin, things seemed to calm down for her thought wise. Had it been the constant wondering of his feelings for her that had kept her so busy within the infirmary. Whatever it had been since their talk she had found it somewhat easier to escape the tedious tasks of ensuring that the infirmary was well stocked and that they were ready for this war that was coming.

Since Brennus' funeral she had found solace on the beach where they had held the ceremony. It gave her a place to sit and think and that was exactly where she had gone when the sun had set. The lull of the ocean waves crashing on the beach and the soft cries of the birds in the trees that lined the shorline behind her was comforting. Even though she had told Orin that she would stay with him for a few days to relax and get away from the infirmary she had yet to do so. Instead she combed the sandy beach for a spot to sit and think.

It was there on the beach that she had fallen asleep and was awakened by the alarming sounds of the warning bells...the enemy was approaching. Scrambling to her feet she raced towards the village, cursing herself for not going to see Orin as she had promised him. Her heart raced within her chest, the war was starting and it made her bood run cold.. fear ran through her veins and her mind raced with the thoughts that now overtook every other thought that had been there. The time had come to prove just how valuable she and the rest of the healers would be.. now was her time to repay her debt to those that had taken her from the dungeons when they had rescued the Queen.

Bursting through the doors of the infirmary she cried out.. "They are coming.. we must make ready for what is to come.!"

Carrick awoke to a nudge, followed by the dim sight of Murphy, the Irish wolfhound, pacing around the nearly extinguished campfire. Knowing something was amiss, the warrior immediately rose and gathered his things, then stamped out the remainders of his fire. The dog looked uncharacteristically anxious, and he had been left to guard Seraphim and her smithy. He thought that the animal would lead her there, but instead it was within sight of the sea.

"No...twice as large as I thought. Ye done a good job, Murphy." Carrick ruffled the animal's head as he wagged his tail, then sadly realized he hadn't parchment or paper to send back with the dog. "Go home, back to the smithy, understand?" The large dog headed off in the direction of the town.

It was where he wanted to be--and where he wanted to go. The place, and the person, that he wanted to protect most, but he had his duty. He knew that he should report to the barracks immediately, but with lives on the line, he trusted most his instincts as a scout and as an experienced raid leader.

Waiting was difficult, but he knew that his night vision would take time to fully adjust, and that it would be fatal to the ships surrounding the coastline if he was seen with a torch. He crept over hills until he at last reached the lookout point. He smiled at the long extinguished fire and then shook awake the sleeping ensigns nearby. One was of Avalendor, and the other an Irishman. An empty bottle rested nearby, unsurprisingly, but the men seemed sober enough now, by their looks.

"Ships on the horizon!" he said in a loud whisper, and then he was off.

The town should be a bit more protected, and farther from the coast, he justified, and the queen as well. There wasn't time to warn everyone, not even the queen and the blacksmith. Others had apparently sighted the ships as well, as he thankfully heard the sound of alarms chasing him.

He sprinted to the barracks, half-wishing he had Murphy's help in rousing the men. Besides his experience with the dog and small raiding parties, Carrick wasn't a leader--he tended to work alone. But he was part of the infantry now, and they needed to be alerted.

"Everyone, up!" The Irishman shouted, "Ships on the horizon. L:et's move!" He paced the barracks, hoping to find one Naevah Northam in particular.

The sound of swords being sheathed comforted the warrior. He hoped the afterlife was like this--the rush of battle, defending loved ones, and slaying the English and their allies.


With the death of the former commander, Naevah personally knew that it was Saelis' doing. She had served in their army for over three years. She knew the army inside and out, and was glad she had at least that advantage while training her men to fight. She had advised her men to rest up as much as they could since the death of Brennus came to Avalendor. War was coming and once it was there, they would not be getting much sleep for quite some time. Half of her guards were off at their posts, guarding Avalendor. They had taken the daytime to sleep, much as the queen had advised a while ago. Naevah, however, had fallen asleep several hours before the alarms would sound. Lucky for her division, she was a very light sleeper. Windows had been left open due to the warm weather that had settled upon the isle and the sound of the horn and the bell spilled in, waking her.
Immediately, she sat up, grey-blue eyes quickly glancing about. The sound meant one thing, war was approaching. And there was never enough time after the alarm to begin preparing. The blankets were thrown off of her tall form and she stood up, throwing on the pair of pants she had prepared for war. While she typically wore dresses, wars were completely different. She quickly dressed, then slid her feet into her pair of boots before lacing them. Her sword was fastened to her hip, knives and daggers were tied around her calfs of her legs, and at her hip opposite side to her sword. Her braided hair was thrown back, out of the way and she quickly left her room, stepping out into the hallway. Several of her infantry men were coming out of their rooms, with a bit of confusion upon their faces.
Naevah spoke loudly, almost yelling, throughout the hall. "Everyone up now! Prepare for war. It's here." The confused men rushed back into their rooms to ready themselves, and Naevah continued down the hall, rushing, yet calm at the same time. She banged the palm of her hand against the doors as she walked by and continued to yell out orders. "Get up! EVERYBODY UP!"
Naevah, unlike most of the others who were beginning to rush around with worried and nervous looks upon their faces, kept that stoic expression, never showing any sign of worry, fear or nervousness. She had done this before. She knew what they were up against, but even still, she presented herself confidently and unafraid.
"Prepare for war! Meet outside the military building in your formation lines. We've practiced this before. Arm yourselves with any weapons you will need."
An infantryman stood in front of her, strapping his swords upon his back. He grinned and spoke to her as she stopped to glance around. "You look more like a man now without the dress, commander."
Naevah smirked and nodded faintly, slapping the man's shoulder. "I'm more of a man than any of you ladies around here will ever be..."
The man laughed, it was an obvious inside joke that she and her men had shared throughout all of training.
"Landon is on his way up. He said he forgot your ax you let him borrow."
Naevah nodded and banged on the door beside her. "Get up! LET'S GO everyone! NOW!"
The tall, brutish man ran down the hall and stopped, short of breath in front of Naevah. He held out a double bladed ax to her. "Commander. Your ax. Sorry it was not returned to you sooner."
Naevah smiled and took the ax from him. "Not a problem. It's returned now. Just in time." She pushed the ax into the straps along her back. "Gather the men from your hall, please. Meet outside the building. Everyone is to grab a spear and shield before they head out. Pass along the message."
He nodded and darted off again.
Naevah stood in the middle of the hall, waiting and shouting out orders as she fastened all of her armor and weapons to herself. Just then, she heard the shouting of the irishman, attempting to assist in getting everyone up.
She finished with adjusting all of her armor and weapons and looked up to Carrick, again. He looked as if he had been outside and knew of the warning more than she did. She did not see the ships coming yet, she was only acting by the sounds of the alarms. She stopped Carrick, placing her hand on his shoulder and she spoke calmly. "Have you seen the ships? How much time do we have?"

-::- The horns of alarm hand echoed through the isle no ear would go unreached no dout the citizens were waking in confusion to be soon replaced by fear.. He knew this, he'd seen it before..Flash backs of the war in Amaritine Forests played before him as he moved towards the cobords of his offices. Flinging them open to gaze upon the armor that never failed him. The commander' armor would be left behind, for he'd taken up his own..

The light chain mail slipped on over his head, followed by the poet shirt and thick leather vest. Soon followed by the battered cloak he was known for wearing. Thigh and shine guards were slipped on beneath his pants, wrists guards were worn over his shirt, to give the illusion he was unarmored. Two sheaths were placed criss-crossed upon his back. The sound of metal clearing sheaths as he whipped the twins from their holders to sheath them upon his back. His fathers sword strapped to his side. Then he turned. His gaze would fall on the quiver full of arrows and the legendry bow that rested upon the mantel.. So many wars had it seen and enver failed him. He came as a ranger, and he'd fight just as strong as one now.

He ripped the display opened and pulled the bow lose, it was still strong as if just made yesturday and the quiver placed upon his back only the arrows were replaced with stronger more studry ones.. Their tips dripping with something... Poison, he'd fight fire with fire, no he hadn't forgotten the sword in which carried the poison that nearly ended his life. Avalendor had it own poisons and thanks to Pilgrim, this one had no cure.

Turning, out the door he darted and down the steps trailed by a guard that'd be patroling the halls. -::- " Rally four others, go to the citizens grounds get the citizens to the castle and as quietly as possible.. No torches and no lamps you here me?!? One false and it is your head soldier. " -::- The man didn't hesitate turning in the opposite dirrection to dart down the hall as Thais bursted from the building. The mustang eagerly waiting had been trained to know the horn and the reason behind it. He mounted and grasped the blonde main.. -::- " Now is our time make haste we much locate the others, first to the shores, Kaleb knows some but he is the first to recieve the wave... make haste! -::- With out so much as one word the mustang reared then dug it's hooves into the ground taking off and full speed towards the shores in search. -::-

" Stop the alarms! Once is enough you idiots do you want them to know we know they are here?!?!" -::- He would shout to the horns and soon one by one would stop and the isle would fall deathly silent..-::-

- - - - - - -

-::- It would not be long till he located one of the sailers and learned of Kaleb' wear abouts and he would be found. Jumping from the mustang before it had stopped he landed with ease at a vague skid not far from Kaleb.. His voice a whisper -::- " No lights, nothing. We must make them believe we are unaware of their presence.. Are some of your men positioned in the water as we planned? " -::- Nobody would have known of the plan but Kaleb and he trusted the man kept it between himself and his men..-::-

Before anything, Carrick listened to the orders issued by his commander. The Irishman grabbed a spear as ordered, but had already made his way into the barracks to his own personal affects, unwrapping and strapping to his back a green and gold targe in the fashion of Eire. Always, he practiced and trained with the same equipment as the other men, but when it came to true life and death, matters of safety and pride, he wanted his own shield.

Beyond that, he did not fear death. If he did in fact die, he was sure that Seraphim would seek out his body, and that she would hopefully inform his sister and the rest of the family back home that he had died. The targe would help identify him.

Carrick was not exactly dressed for battle--he still wore civilian clothing. As always, his sword was at his side. This would be his first battle without Murphy at his side, but the dog was attending to more important matters. Knowing the smithy was protected by the dog, Carrick would be much less distracted in battle. Within, the warrior did his best to contain the sense of hatred and revenge he had for Saelis. It was easy for him to identify with an empire wanting to take over an island nation. He was ready.

This was conveyed in the look he delivered Naevah.

"It's been forty minutes or more since I saw them. I suspect we have less than an hour."

His voice was calm and he followed Naevah's lead in that despite the confused and rushed looks of the soldiers around them. At the feeling of her hand on his shoulder, the man offered a respectful nod. Of all the troops, his background gave him the most advantage at being used to a female commander. Such was commonplace, in a household with someone like his sister and his mother, and Ulster's commander was a woman as well.

"I await orders from ye."

Through the calmness in her voice, he couldn't sense any real fear. Carrick feared no death, but his obligation was to protect others, and that need was constant.

Kaleb turned at the sound of Thais' voice and nodded in the darkness. With the extinguishing of the lights, his night vision had increased. His own voice was barely a whisper as he moved closer to the Commander having been mere steps from boarding the Tempest. "They are ready..we are leaving now, do you know any more of the whereabouts of the Commanders ships?" Since the sounding of the alarm, all had gone as planned and he was glad that the Commander had found him so quickly.

-::- He smirked at the question -::- " I wish I did. Even if I did it would be foolish to attack it, they are more than likely attacking in waves.. The commander' ships would be surrounded. It would be a suicide mission... Lets try to take out as many ships as possible.. What gets by us... " -::- Yes he did have plan in joining him at sea and wasn't about to hear edgewise. Yes what Alexandria had said was in the back of his mind but he wasn't being heroic he knew the navy was small, they'd need all the help they could get. -::- "I'm confident Naevah and Amber won't let get past them. " -::- He would be moving aboard as he spoke. -::- " Oh, one thing I forgot to mention with the suits. I advise nobody get's too egotistic and brave, they are suits to keep warm and dry not armor.. " -::- That was one thing that was not added for the reason it would weigh the men down and that was the last thing they needed. -::-

Even in the dim light of the moon the quizzical look on his features could be seen and he whispered a little more quickly as he followed Thais. "Commander..shouldn't you be leading the efforts on land..this is dangerous." Seeing that he was not stopping he continued. "Thais...are you sure about this?" He had full faith in him but did not want to deprive the rest of the military of a leader while he risked his life under the waves of the enemy ships.

" I willt not be lost as sea and I am no more useful on land than at sea. I am just another man like you or that sailor there. I have preached and ordered as much as I can. Now is the time for Avalendor to prove their worth to their queen... I have faith in Avalendor. Now is the time they have faith in themselves. " -::- No ship would last long out there, this he knew but only the smartest and strongest would know the way back and how to get back to the isle safe, and well alive. -::- " Do not count on the ships, they are decoys. Remember. " -::- His voice never rising above a whisper, he was strangely calm.. But then again Thais was always calm, never known to loose himself only but once and those who heard about it would most likely know why since he'd gotten a serious of pats on the back which had only made him feel more guilty in the aftermath. -::- " Come, my friend.. My brother, I have your back as I'm sure you'd have mine, lets not delay any longer. " -d-

Kaleb nodded and grinned as he clamped Thais on the shoulder for a brief moment. "Yes..'till death my friend. Let's show them how tricky this little island can be." With that he led Thais down the steps into the hull where the divers and the special suits awaited. Kaleb was sure of one thing and that was, the men assembled were the best in the Navy and were well trained, even in secret, to secure the mission. They were ready beyond all doubt, this was the time when Avalendor needed them the most and was at her most vulnerable.

-::- He only grinned then and moved bellow deck.. It seemed only yesterday since he was last on a ship... Memories, he shook his head and moved over towards the suits. Handing then out and tossing some to those who couldn't get to them quite fast enough. It wasn't till everyone else had one, he'd take one of the extras and slip into it. Of course it was rather hard getting it over the clothes but it was well worth the struggle to keep warm. Weapons were kept out and atop the suit as well as the cloak to help conceal it. He turned, but no orders would be barked, he'd pause and see what Kaleb would do, perhaps a chance to see the navy in action. But only a few moment before he moved to go back above deck. Bellow deck didn't much settle well with his stomach. -::-

The men knew what to do and with only a nod from Kaleb, they moved like a well oiled machine above deck to set the ship on the coarse chosen. Each man had a duty which was performed in silence as the Tempest slipped from the confines of the port and out into open water. The died black leather of the suit also helped to keep them concealed and once in the water they would look no different from any large water animal or even blend with the waves themselves. Looking to Thais, Kaleb continued to whisper. "The last contact I had with anything was due South of here..we have to be careful not to sail right into them."

Seraphim had finally gotten the chance to sleep. She’d been down a whole hour and a half, her pillow smooshed up under her dark head, the scarf was gone. She had had the mind to change and take a quick splash, the trunks were almost comfy. That meant she really needed the sleep. But again, that would wait because she was currently being woken up by the hound dog. How he could work a door was beyond her, but she was pushing the dog gently away, wanting more sleep.

Finally, Murphy would end up tugging her right off the trunks and onto the hard packed dirt floor, a grunt issuing from her as she flung the sheet over the dog. Bare feet would find their way under her and she’d stand, bones aching. She had changed from the woolen work clothes back into her usual work kit, minus the apron. It had to be cleaned. Deer skin pants were near second skin, her bare feet were shoved into her loafers, the men’s blouse was un tucked, sleeves rolled down and the neck open for optimal sleeping comfort. Thick locks were down about her waist, mostly dry; she was too tired to braid them.

Absently, sleepily, she was being pulled from the smithy to the yard out front by the now blanket free dog. Lead by her shirt tails, she’d rub an eye before blinking at the dog. “What is it, Murphy? Rabbits? I’m not hungry..” Soon the dog would let go and she’d just follow anyway. Coming to the top of the hill, which took a few minutes at her sleepwalker pace, it would take time to register. Then the horns.

Any sleep that hugged her was suddenly on the ground. Back down the hill she ran. Probably the only citizen that lived in her workshop, she didn’t dare stop. Pell mell, she was at her door in moments from the hill, barely stopping for she’d surely fall over her own long limbs. Murphy on her tail, she was muttering under her breath. A shovel was grabbed and so was one of her sleeping trunks. Lord, how long did she have? It didn’t matter at this point. Dropping the shovel as she reminded herself to grab her belt, almost cursing as she couldn’t find it at first.

The hammer and nails, other little things she used in her trade were soon around her waist in their rough leather cases and holders. Then, she’d pick up the shovel again. Pulling the trunks away from the corner, she’d look behind, nodding some as the ground finally looked pat. She had buried her important items the week before, now it was time to hide the weapons store. Grunting aloud, she wished Carrick was with her.

It would take all her mind to find a proper, safe place, to uncover, then recover, and remember. She felt like she couldn’t breathe. Where was Carrick? Murphy was panting by her side.

Alessia had grown fond of the sea in some ways...and it surely wasn't because of those idiotic pirates that sailed upon it. She'd been hiding herself within the inn for awhile to avoid them. They just wouldn't leave her alone...and every time they tried to snag her, this sly fox slipped from their grasp.

She needed to get off this rock. But without a ship, and hardly getting the time to explore and find a way off the island, Aless had no choice but to remain.

There were plenty of words of war spreading throughout the kingdom, and it made her uneasy. Naturally war would make someone uneasy, but just thinking about it caused her to remember a harsh memory of her past...related to another kingdom on the brink of war. Leaning back in the sand, supported on her hands, brown eyes watched the dark horizon and listened to the crash of the waves. Alessia remembered how her conning ways amused her, how well she did it...And by noting how easily Jean fell for her tricks, she still possessed the skill. But to live among the people of a kingdom and work for their enemy, to spy on them and send information to the threat made her stomach turn.

She could remember how easily she had done it...remembered the reason why she had to. Her brother had been sick, and that bastard King Cyprian promised to save him if she became a spy. And so she did...and lost her brother anyway. And then there was Mordred...A conniving prince, who could easily match her devious ways if not best it, that had come so close to actually...taming this fox, came so close to having her heart. That hard exterior of his had softened as well, right before he was killed in that war he helped cause, but switched sides with her when they came to realize how truly horrible of a mistake they had made.

Alessia couldn't even believe herself then.

A heavy sigh slipped passed her lips, the wind washing over her form as she sat there. But then something was noticed upon the dark waters. Sitting up more, eyes narrowed when she saw the distant, black silhouettes. She was about to question herself when she heard the yells and then the alarm bells following soon after.

The war was here.

Quickly scrambling to her feet, Alessia followed in the direction the men had run off to, making her way to wherever people were gathered. A question lingered on her mind...Would she stay and fight, prove to herself that she could change? Or will she run?

The tavern was basically empty, except for a few men lingering about the tables and Erin briskly running back and forth cleaning off the bar counter and table tops. It took forever sometimes to clean up the place at closing time, so she tried to start early if business allowed her. She didn't want to stay late this evening and was only grateful for this one night that business was for once slow.

Green gaze lifted to travel around the place, wondering where Kieren wandered off to before looking to the four men left in the tavern. A furrow of brows when she noticed they were bothered by something, questioning something.

"Those...they...are those...?" one tried to form a sentence but hadn't the ability to at the moment from all the alcohol he consumed.
Another stared out the window as though frozen, while the third was able to say the words the first man could not, "Is that...the war alarm...?"
Erin began to slowly make her way over to them, drifting her attention out the window. People began to flee from the streets, slamming doors shut, and the panic upon their faces could not be over looked. Her heart began to beat faster; she didn't know what to do. The four men looked to her, threw a few coins upon the table before scrambling out the door, leaving it open so she could see more of what was going on, and the bells were ringing even louder.

"Oooh...oh, what do I do...?!" she continued to ramble on to herself, walking in circles, thinking she knew what to do but truly didn't and stopped herself. Eyes glanced about the tavern once more, "Kieren...?" she called out softly, hardly audible. Then, her voice rose three times louder, "KIEREN!" Erin began to run around, closing the door and windows, and locking them as though that would keep out this enemy that was approaching.

Kieren had been out, gathering more supplies that were needed for the Tavern as they were not yet fully settled into their new surroundings. Just minor nicknacks really. He had intended on mkaing the trip rather quick and painless, nothing out of the ordinary he felt would take too long. However, the sudden alarm rang out and all sorts of scrambling and whatnot had began to occur. "Hm...odd bunch of people really." He would mutter to himself watching the people move around, unaware of this impending war. He figured it was some sort of curfew or something. Walking back toward the Tavern he would attempt to slide the door open only to find it locked."What's the issue love?" His question seemed so genuinely innocent as he arched a brow. Oh no...perhaps he did something wrong? Though he normally would recall such things since Erin usually reminded him.

Zane actually was not as sound of a sleeper as he pretended. He had mainly lived a life among the merchant class, tucked away in their lair for days on end. The men he lived most of his life with were a little bit of the unsavory types. No royal blood lied there, only thieving tongues and backstabbing mates. It was obvious that one had to sleep lightly if they wanted to keep what was their own. Zane was used to this type of couscous slumber; he had grown accustom to it since he was a young lad. So, when the alarms sounded on this night Zane had bolted up right in his bed. All sleep dissolved from his eyes instantly as the snapped awake.

It was with the second alarm that he rose up from the safety of his bed. His bare feet fell to the wooden floor boards and he rose up on the balls of them in a large stretch of his torso. He wore a white linen shirt that hung loose across his wide shoulders, open in the warmth of the night. His pants were frayed and cut off at the knees. This was how he normally slumbered when the heat kissed the air and the only comfort was the open window's breeze.

It was obvious that he was not rushing around some other were. He could hear the military halls start to rise already. Heavy feet padded across floors. Zane simply walked over to the small basin bowl that rested on his dresser. Hands dipped into the lukewarm water and as he pulled them forth the drops trickled between his fingers. His face was splashed several times before finally he dried it off in a near by towel. As said before his first task was in grooming. It could be days or weeks before his next oppertuinty. Zane picked up a wide brush and dipped it into the shaving cream, allowing the bristles to fill with the thick paste. In a back and forth fashion the thick white cream was brushed across his cheek, jaw, chin, and upper lip. Next he freed the blade, it was sharp and smoothed over his face with ease. Those short dark stubbles had no chance and his flesh showed through in the blade's wake. He carefully scraped across the curve of his clefted chin, then his upper lip. These areas required tender care. He finished his face and neck, now only cleared from the shaving cream, save a few patches. Instead of bringing the water to his face, he would lower his face down into the confines of the bowl. Those eyes closed before reaching the water and his lashed had to fight off the drops as they reopened once he rose from the bowl. His large hands cupped under the basin's water and he rose its lukewarm contents splash against his face to remove the remaining traces of the thick cream. He felt fresh.

Once the ritual was complete he exchanged his night clothing for those of war. The padding of his tunic or jerkin was thick and would no doubt be stifling in this heat. But it necessary when he wore his chest plate. His armor had been made for him only the previous year. It laid snuggly across his chest. His brown leather belt looped around his waist twice before lacing through it's buckle. The attached sword hung loose on his waist and his sheathed dagger was tucked away. He didn't like being cumbersomely by the weight of heavy armor.This was how he was used to fighting.

Yes, finally Zane emerged from his room. He fell in line with the rest of those who were in the calvary, They were making way to the horses to prepare their steads. Occasionally as he passed one of his fellow calvary members he would pat their back, that was all, a reassuring pat. His own horse seemed ready when he entered her stall. The brown horse padded her hooves into the flat dirt of the earth, like she also knew the war was here.

Zane knew nothing of the plans that the commanders had made. He now had to wait to help direct formations. Besides helping others who needed he was pretty much stuck awaiting orders.


Soft footfalls carried Julianna down the path she needed to take. She wore simple black breeches with a deep red blouse. Sword as usual sheathed at her hip. Her destination? The military building. Julianna had a few different motives for going there. Mainly it was in search of something to occupy her time. She had a few options in mind, and any of them would work for her really. First thing she was looking for was Terra. Seeing if she was here, Julianna hadn’t spent much time with her sister lately, and she had vowed to change that. And the training grounds was one place she knew her sister might be found. However, if Terra was not around, then there was always training herself, or any of her rangers that were lingering around.

Once she had stepped into the area, those azure hues scanned around as she stepped navigated her way around those that where here. She scanned the faces of those around her, she was looking for Terra, hoping she was here. Hand rested upon the hilt of her sword as she moved, fingertips gently tapping the handle idly. "Are you here?" Words whispered to herself. She wasn't paying too much attention to what others were doing around her, right now she was focused on her search.


Terra was always at the training grounds. She lived to practice and strived to become better, even if it was a very small amount each day. And now, she had her armor, the new, beautifully crafted armor Seraphim was nice enough to work on. Terra didn't feel so unnerved now during practice and could actually feel comfortable.

She needed to get used to the extra weight from the armor, and she could be found now, mounted within the saddle of that brown horse, garbed in that war attire except for the helmet. It fit perfectly and didn't feel as though it weighed her down as much as she thought it would. However, she had been trying a few times with holding the lance- Terra had gotten used to the slight weight difference from the older lances, oddly thanks to Marcus...but with the armor, she had to work on it a little more.

It was now she sent Altair into a heavy gallop back and forth across the field, allowing her to get the feel of everything and practice holding the lance properly. For the moment, she didn't try any targets. That would be her next task. She feared she was falling behind all the other cavalrymen for the fact that she had been without armor for so long, even though she practiced just as much...But she was working on catching up rather quickly and prayed her hard work would be noticed.


Well it didn't take Julianna too long to catch sight of her sister atop the horse. She had been right in looking for here here. She shouldn't have doubted that she would be here. She knew how persistent her sister could be when she set her mind on something, and Julianna knew how important it was for Terra to prove she could do this.

A soft smile formed as she came to a stop not too far off from Terra. Arms folded in front of her as she watched her sister. Julianna had heard things about Terra, but hadn't really gotten to see to much with her own eyes. She would nod gently as she could see how hard her sister had been working. She would draw her self a little closer, bringing herself into Terra's view. However she wouldn't interrupt her just yet.


Her brows were furrowed in concentration, arm not straining too much now to hold that lance. It was starting to become a second nature to her and that would make her smile more now.

Turning Altair around, in that short distance she would notice a female figure standing there, watching her. Terra knew right away it was her sister and lifted and turned that lance point up in the air as if in salute or greeting her. A light kick of her heel, the horse was sent down the field in another gallop...midway that lance was lowered and she steered Altair in the direction of her sister. Obviously she wasn't going to strike Julianna, especially not with that lance...but it was similar to a game they used to play when they were younger, to see who would back out first. However, seeing as the odds were a bit on her favor, the horse was masterfully sent off to the side as the tip of the lance simply passed over and to the right of Jules.

The brown equine was pulled to a stop and turned around once more so she could flash her sister a somewhat goofy grin.

Julianna held much pride in her sister and how much she had been working. She knew that their father mother and Gareth would have all been proud as well. Arms were folded in front of her. A soft chuckle escaped as her sister seemed to salute her. However, as she started to move toward her atop the horse a brow would arch a bit. Julianna knew what Terra was doing, causing a smirk to form upon her lips.

Julianna didn't move as Terra neared her, she knew Terra wasn't going to hit her with that lance. As Terra moved to the side a bit and that lance passed so close to her on the right, she would flinch at the thought of how close it was. Head would turn to look over her shoulder at her sister. That goofy grin caused laugher to escape her. Wonderful memories of their childhood came to mind.

Julianna would turn fully to face Terra. "You know thats taking it to a whole new level..." She spoke with a hint of a chuckle in her tone. Lips parted to say something else but she was silenced by the sound off in the distance. A chill ran down her spine as she looked around for a moment. Julianna knew what that meant. It was here. Everything that had been training for was now here. She would swallow hard for a moment everything running though her mind. She had trained her rangers to line up outside the military building, but most people were sleeping now, how many would wake? She would shake her head snapping herself from her thoughts. Now was not the time to stall on details, they needed to get moving, her expression showed such as she looked back over to Terra.

The land of Avalendor had slowly opened up to reveal it's secrets over the last two moons to the wayward ranger who scouted her lands while on survival training. Survival training....she would have scoffed at the hilarity of it under different circumstances. The training had come at the insistence of her peers and commanders to test her capabilities. In the end, all it had done was give her time to meditate and reflect on the last two years of her life. What she had ultimately discovered was less than reassuring, to be sure.

The manor is a flurry of activity as she barrels through the halls, making a slow but steady progression to her quarters. Once inside, she almost throws herself to her knees by her bed before reaching under and loosening a few boards. From beneath it, she retrieves two case which are placed upon the bed. The clasps snap open as though they were only closed yesterday and the lids are lifted. In one case rests a set of blades, the style of which is certainly not of this kingdom; the smallest is as long as her forearm while the longest, most elegant piece is the length of her leg. All are clipped to her waist with haste before she throws open the second. Inside is the most exquisite bow, the likes of which have long been lost or forgotten. Deft fingers loop the bowstring over the first hook as she stands, effortlessly stringing it without a single moment of struggle. A small quiver of handmade arrows are pulled from the case before she departs the room, not bothering to tidy up as she makes her way in search of her commander.

War was not a time for reminiscing over a room you may never see again and, knowing how true such a belief was, she might as well have her best weapons with her...just in case.


A thousand thoughts raced through her mind in all this moment. Her men scrambled around her, behind her, past her as they moved out the hall and towards the line-up spot she had mentioned at least twice during every training session. She sighed, almost a sigh of relief at the time Carrick had confirmed they had left, but more of a sigh of how much she hoped this would go as well as it could.
"Aye, alright..." She thought carefully for a moment. Carrick was ranked as a guard, while most of her other men were still privates. She was strict on her promotions, and part of her wished that she had done it more often with the training. She squeezed Carrick's shoulder and nodded. "Head outside and help guide the privates into formation. Quickly. By the time I get out there, I want everyone lined up and ready with their weapons, spears and shields..."
She pushed his shoulder slightly to urge him to go on and she turned, going against the crowd of men moving their way down the hall. She shouted out as she moved along, giving encouraging pats to their backs. "Make sure you have your shields, ladies. Nothing else will protect you from their arrows, unless you are Ares himself. Let's go!"
Her mind crossed to Zane. She knew how much of a heavy sleeper he was and she wondered if he woke through all the commotion. She at least hoped so. Not only that, she needed to find Ancaladar, Amber, and Julianna to figure out how they would approach this as it was coming.
Naevah rushed off, finding herself in the wing of the Cavalry division. She first rushed towards Zane's room and without even knocking, she opened the door and glanced around. He was gone. Well, at least that answered that. And she noticed the shaving equipment. He had actually done it? She caught herself grinning, a small, quiet laugh escaping her as she shook her head.
She did not linger too long in his room, and quickly rushed back out, making her way down the halls, hoping she'd bump into Ancaladar, but no such luck. Time was running out and she couldn't keep her men waiting. She'd find the other commanders outside, she hoped. Surely they were linining their own divisions up.
Her other equipment, such as her own shield and spear was in Silver's stall. Infantry commander, she was. But Silver ran faster than she did. And she would need him to travel from one end of her division's line to the next before she could dismount and fight along with them.
She ran to the stables, finding her way through the other cavalrymen and women getting their own horses. It was then she caught Zane as she entered Silver's stall from across from Artemis'.
She moved quickly, readying Silver to ride and placing his armor on him, as well as preparing her own armor. The horse was trained that once she got off him and entered her division's lines, the horse would run off into safety. She smirked and looked over to Zane, speaking out to him.
"I see you have gotten in your quick shave..." Once she was finished getting ready, she lead the horse out of the stall and climbed onto him. She glanced to Zane and grinned. "Don't forget. Two things. One. If you don't like birds you or I best not die in all of this." She smirked again, knowing that he'd know what she was talking about, relating to a conversation they had a while back about reincarnation. "And two. May the best man win..." She grinned and nudged Silver to move forward, riding off before he could say anything in response. She was sure he'd understand why she was rushing off.
Quickly, Silver carried her towards the spot where her division was lining up. She rode back and forth as she waited, grey-blue eyes scanning around, glancing at all the faces of her men, trying to see if there was anyone that was not there yet.
"Don't tell us you've been training us to fight on foot and your trading yourself in for the cavalry up there!" One of the men shouted.
Naevah grinned and shook her head. "I'd rather die than do that... I'll be fighting down there with you ladies soon enough, don't you worry..." She turned away and breathed in a breath of air before she spoke out loudly.
"Carrick!?" The name was shouted as she searched around for him. She hoped he had gathered everyone that was left that needed to be gathered and lined up.

[Soleil]

The Irishman immediately moved to do as he was told. He attempted to keep his mind on his orders and his task, but his mind was of course on Seraphim. Murphy hadn't come back for him, and that was a good sign--it meant he was helping her and protecting her, and doing as he was told.

He ended up carrying a few spears at a time, thrusting them into hands of the privates. Carrick stood back and looked at them, noticing they weren't holding their shields correctly. Some of the young men were very young. Carrick quickly reflected on this--after all, he had trained at such a young age and hadn't learned to love or feel content until just now.

He singled out one man holding a shield properly. "Don't forget to use the shield to protect yerselves," he instructed. "The use of it changes in battle. Arrows will come first. Work as a unit when you can and warn each other when ye see the volleys of them. Tilt the shields at the incoming angle. When hand to hand combat comes, block each movement; never leave yourself unprotected."

He realized he was pacing, and delivering last words of advice for some of these men--good advice, but the last of it.

"Formation, men!" His voice boomed among the area, and with a calm, dignified manner, the men of Avalendor organized themselves properly. He wasn't sure how good they'd be at marching in formation, but when he stopped before Naevah, he briefly turned and noted them all in order.

Closing his eyes, Carrick knelt, genuflected, and said a very brief prayer. God was on Avalendor's side. Hearing his name, he opened his eyes, stood, and nodded to his commander. "Here, with men in line."

Carrick stepped forward, leaving the men behind for a moment. He looked up to Naevah on horseback. "The men are ready. We are not short on weapons, but if more are needed, the blacksmith's got a hidden cache of them."

He wasn't asking permission to go to her, or even for one of the men to go, but if there was a need later and he was still alive, he wouldn't say no to the chance. Then again, his duty here was clear--he outranked most of these men, and so he would assist in leading them.

It took a good amount of time to drag the trunk to the place she planned before. She had two more out there, though smaller quantities lay within. Murphy was finally a big help, who helped her dig a good sized and deep hole that would snuggly fit the trunk in, then she filled it up. Murphy preferred digging to filling. The earth was moist enough that it would pack well, and when she covered it with odds and ends, it would be near invisible. She would then take a small awl from her belt and go to a near tree, carving a quick circle in the bark. Her breath was still hard by the time she returned to the smithy, leaning the shovel against the building, a soft sheen of sweat covered her, dirt clotting on her clothes and skin, she’d quickly splash off in the stream before looking to Murphy and waving him into the drink to clean the worse off him.

The dog would shake himself off, but she was already in the smithy to avoid his grunting growls of wet disapproval. Her shoes were off and she was on top of a table arms stretched upwards, back arced some as the awl was out again. She was carving into one of the beams of her roof, no one ever looked up. And it was not something she shared, or in an area most could see. Luckily for her she was tall and paranoid. Or prepared, depending on how you look at it.

It did not take long, the items may just be lost forever if she lost her mind, not that it was a huge loss. The carving had her home, the stream, a few icons she would know without a legend, and the circles of the trunks. She’d soon slip off the table again, Murphy cocking his head at her in the doorway, “What?”

" Then do not sail right into them . . Captain . . " -::- His voice held slight amusement to it but the serious expression never left his features. Gaze shifting from Kaleb out to sea as the ship rocked against the waves. Steal blues surveyed as far as he could see as he moved forward to shift and crouch atop the trail holding on to a stray rope for leverage so he wouldn't fall

His mind drifted back to the shores and over the rocky cliffs to the isle.. Worry engulfed him but not control.. It was a relief she was learning to fight but at the same time it worried him more the fact he knew she'd try to fight even if the castle wasn't attacked.. He knew Alex, she was just like him, a mirror image basicly why he knew her so well and she him.. He knew he would not sit alone in a castle while his people were under attack and knew she'd be the same way..

He shook his head for it was out of his hands, he could not and would not try to control her even if he could. Gaze shifting from the sea to the ship then the men awaiting their further orders. They were all more than ready this he could see.. So here he was gladly going into war for people he was more than wiling to die for and protect till his heart no longer beated. His hand raised to grasp the necklace Alex had given it and his lips would brush across it briefly and a silent prayer would escape but never be heard..Spoken to silently for anyone else to hear him . . -::-


The horn had sounded and was the first to wake Alexandria from her sleep. She had been dreaming about being in Saelis, seeing the assassinations of former Avalendor citizens. She woke with startle, sitting up, yelling as if she were there seeing it all happen again. But the darkness of her room, and the continued sounds of the horn, and then the bell brought her into a quick realization that she was not. But there were bigger problems unfolding now. ". . . Alarms of war." She felt her heart begin to race within her chest as she threw the covers from her and stood up from her bed. She raced towards the window, glancing out to see her view of the ocean shore. Sapphire eyes squinted, trying to get a glance of the distant horizon and what was coming. She could see the citizens begin to swarm around, rushing about, peeking outside their houses to catch a glimpse of the comotion. There wasn't much time. She had given orders that all non-fighter civilians or those that did not live within the citizen manor, to come reside within the castle while the war is going on. And she had to be ready to assist the servants and guards of the castle to escort them to the empty rooms that would house them for however long the war would continue on for.
She did not even wish to think about the possibilities. She was just trying to focus on one moment at a time. And right now, she needed to do whatever she could to get her people comfortable in such a worrysome time.
Quickly, she threw her robe over her nightgown, tying it around herself. She did not even bother slipping her feet into slippers. The air was still warm for the evening, and the cold floor felt good and helped keep her strangely calm. Inside, she was screaming and wanting to cry. She had been dreading this day for so long and it was finally here. But she wouldn't lose control. She couldn't. They all needed her to be strong, much like her military as they bravely began to line up to fight off and stand up to the large enemy that was coming. A deep breath was taken in and she left her room just as three guards came rushing towards her from the stairs.
"Your majesty! Ships of Saelis have been spotted! The military divisions have gone into full alert and preparing to fight."
Alexandria nodded in response, her lower lip drawn in and bit down onto, though only for a quick moment before she wiped all worried emotions from her face and replaced it with a confident, strong expression. "Good. How much time is predicted before battle begins?"
The guard sighed as he thought, calculating to himself. "About a half hour, maybe less."
She nodded again and brushed a strand of dark hair behind her ear. "Right." Her arms slowly wrapped around herself as she glanced around the castle. "And the citizens not going to fight in the war... And not already within the citizen manor....They know they are to come here?"
The guard nodded. "Aye, my lady. Word has been sent out and is spreading quickly."
"Good. Thank you."
"I think it would be wise for you to remain in your room for the time being, your majesty."
Her eyes widened a bit and she slowly shook her head. "And I think it would be wise for you to return to your posts...The three of you... Where you are needed to guard over the castle and the citizens that will be needing protection."
The guards were a bit taken back by her protest, but they nodded and turned back into the direction they came in.
Alexandria stood there a moment longer, standing at the railing that overlooked the ground floor below where she stood. The servants were rushing around, preparing, despite how tired they probably were from the lack of sleep. But the adreneline was kicking in for everyone, she was sure.
Her mind wandered first to Orin and what he had said to her--that he hoped Saelis would kill him. She hoped that after their conversation he no longer meant that. she worried about him. And about Zane. Her two brothers that meant the world to her. Though just as soon as things were settled within the castle, and she could make her escape, she had plans to join them in the cavalry and fight with them, where she could keep her eyes on both of them. But she had agreed with Zane that she would wait for him to give her message of where she could meet up with him to fight alongside him, since he was insisting she remain within ten feet of him.
And then she thought about Thais. She had a feeling that he knew of her plans, even without her telling him. It was just how things went in their last conversation with one another. How he taught her to fight with the throwing knives as if she'd really need something like that in just defense. And how he kept asking her if she knew how to fight or if she only knew defense. He knew, and it didn't seem like he would try to stop her, just as Zane wasn't.
A small sigh escaped her and she shook her head. Why did this have to happen? All of her work on trying to keep peace in Avalendor. It was now shattering into a thousand pieces.
This was just another nightmare, she thought to herself. And she wanted so badly to just wake up. But it wasn't. She could feel her heart wild within her chest and the coldness of the floor against her bare feet. This was it. . . This was war. And it was coming banging at Avalendor's door so rudely in the middle of the night . . .
She was alone in that moment. And she knew that this would probably be her last chance to do so. . . Her hands came to cover over her face and she silently cried, letting out everything, now, while she could . . .

Kaleb could not help but Grin at Thais' words. "Aye Commander..but should we sail right into them, means we'll not have to swim." The smile faded quickly however as he turned back to watch the water, the brass scope to his eye.
With the lights of the lanterns and port now gone, he was able to adjust his eyes to the dim light of night.
Fortunate for Avalendor this night that the gentle mist that usually hung low over the water was gone.

The moonlight was their best ally now. Kaleb was suddenly glad for the black tar he had reluctantly ordered the Tempest to be smeared with and despite the protest from the crew, the mud stained sails were hard to bee seen in the night surrounding them. They were at best, like a hole in the water.

Straining to see, the moonlight played tricks on him...or did it.
With his mouth slightly agape, he whispered.
"I see them Thais...there are....more than we expected!"
Lowering the scope he peered through the water before them and shook his head.
Turning he moved quickly to the men and helped in lowering the sails. If they did not, his jest to The Commander would become quite true. They would indeed sail right into them, and what a hornets nest that would stir.!

-::- He smirked at Kaleb' comment but his eyes would never leave the sea ahead he could see them now, thousands of ships and many moving towards the isle like predator hunting helpless pray.. Well Avalendor when far from helpless and this he as well as the other commanders had made sure of.. Brows furrowed and he looked to Kaleb then and moved to assist in lowering the sails. He wasn't completely dumbfounded when it came to ships, he'd commanded one for a short time when arriving at Avalendor.. Granted the ship had been lost but at least they all survived.

When the final sail was lowered he turned and looked back towards the horizon as he spoke. His voice never rising above a calm whisper . . -::- " The element of surprise is crucial if you want to survive.. As it seems that they do not seem to expect anyone to be awake but fools they'd be... Expect everything and dout nothing. This is an empire not a mere kingdom not dout they are skilled in many ways. " -::- His words half to himself half to those that could hear him. He once again moved to the crouch atop the rail and prepared for the plunge.. Swimming would be the only way they'd catch them off guard and nearly the only chance for them to survive. -::-

War had apparently came. Aoife was on the outskirts of the small village, not that she didn’t hear the distant horn that night. But she did not have anything to do about it, really. Aside from her flock, there was nothing to take. She did however; take extra care in securing her lawn so she did not have the fluffy ewes wandering about. Other than that, fabrics and loom, balls of yawn, and a spindle was all she had.

Those aristocratic profiles the sheep carried watched her as she moved across the yard, large green shawl wrapped about her shift clad body, protecting her from the night. Her soft blond locks plated for sleep as she started towards the cliff edge she was located near. Aoife had put her ankle boots on, no use tearing up her tootsies for a look at the impending doom. This was not uncommon for her; the Kingdom of Mann had their raiding parties each spring almost. Letting the breeze tease and tug on her hem and hair, she’d push a few fallen locks from her face, brilliant blues taking in the sea of ships.

Perhaps they would miss her or sink over night, for at the moment, she’d just turn back towards the squat cottage, going back to that straw and wool bed that, even at the moment, was calling its siren song to her.

Kaleb readied himself along with the other divers to the rail beside Thais. He peered through the darkness once more and pointed to a ship among four. It was hard to make out but again, the moonlight was on their side. Even God was for Avalendor it seemed.

"See the sail with the different color...the one in the middle. That's a command ship. Swim to it..take out the crew and then we'll work on the others. As Thais said..the element of surprise and all that rot."

He grinned as he looked to the military commander. His adrenaline was pumping so hard through his blood that he barely felt the ice of the cold late spring water as he slipped from the rail and entered it.
Treading water, he waited for Thais and the other men before swimming, mostly underwater, toward the middle ship.

Nearing it, he could hear the muffled conversations of her crew and commander. "Not long now boys..there will be women..all you can take, we'll drown the soldiers who are not killed in their sleep. "

Treading water beneath the bow of the warship, he whispered to the rest of the swimmers. "The man talking..kill him first."

Marcus stood quietly as Naevah and the other gentleman seemed to instruct the men on the manners of using a shield. He would smirk briefly through his dirty, golden beard and look to one of his peers, motioning to his shield. "Listening are ya lad?" He would ask the young soldier with a stern look, raising a brow...more because he found the whole thing amusing.

Nodding confidently the young soldier nodded as if Marcus was genuinely serious with his question.

"The men are ready for blood commander! I say it's 'bout time we feed the jackals their meal!" Slipping on his aged helmet which still housed the wear and tear of battles yonder, Marcus looked to the men around him and punched at their shields, shaking his fist and yelling a war cry, firing up the men. How remarkable it felt to bear arms once more...he was home.

He sat quietly behind that large oak desk in his office. The small suite of rooms that were alocated to him because of his rank were dark, save the semi circle of light cast by the fireplace behind him. It's warmth welcome even during one of the recently warmer nights. Quietly he leant backwards into that high backed chair, his hands finally setting down that glass writing pen, setting the tip into the small bottle of black ink,he had to keep it upright so as not to spill ink everywhere. Those deep set gray eyes glanced over the lines of writing before him, re-reading everything that he had written over the past few hours. A number of envoices, and requests for funding for armor repairs, as well as a few written requests to men asking for a day or two of leave from the endless practice that he had been pushing his men through.

He'd given most of his men a day with which to relax their tired muscles, as well as to get the more mundane things in order. Men after all missed their families when they were forced to train for such long hours at performing movements of art on the backs of those fabulous equine. No, they had gotten as good as he was going to be able to get them, after all Ancaladar was an experienced combatant, but he was no master of the craft. Quietly he would drop those heavy hands down upon the desk before him, and with a slight groan his leather and cloth covered frame would rise. That leather vest getting a gentle rub, and that white linen shirt being tucked behind the thick leather belt he wore.

It was then, as he turned to turn over the fire and bed it down for the night, that the bells sounded through the open windows of his office. He stood stone still for a moment, his gray eyes locked on the wall as he tried to listen all of the possible commotion going about the barracks all of a sudden. He'd let a small grin spread over his lips as he turned, forgetting the fire and moving immediately towards the large wooden armoir there in his office. A quick twist of the lock, and a shove of the door had his arms and armor exposed to him. It was only moments later that the small boy he had adopted as a paige from the non-combatants of the island showed up, eager to help Ancaladar get that armor on.

"Slow now lad, we're in no rush ... these are the moments in your life that you will know what you're made of ... for as long as you live you'll remember this night ..." He spoke quietly to the young man. He'd stand there, gazing at his reflection in the mirror that he had on the inside of that armoir door. To think, he had changed so much since he had come here seeking his father's glory. Quietly he'd raise a hand, and he'd run it down the small piece of green velvet that he had kept from the dress he'd purchased in his first weeks here. No, she was the last thing that he should be thinking of.

So he'd turn, and slipping the breast plate and pauldrons over those broad shoulders, he would begin to suit himself for the impending battle. His eyes gazing far and away at distant lands, remembering things of the past, and that grin only grew a bit across broad features. He didn't realize when his armor was all buckled and locked to place, until the paige gave a gentle rap on his breast plate. Shaking his head, he'd look down at the boy. "You've done well lad ... now go, and lock yourself in the castle where it's safe... I promise when this is all done you'll be taken to training..."

The boy would duck his head, before heading out through the office door into the hallway. He'd left the door open behind him in his haste to reach safety. Quietly Ancaladar would turn, slipping that brown leather betl around the waist of armored frame, buckling and bolting it in place to hold the sword and long dagger he wore to his waist. He'd stop, looking towards that mirror again, and slowly running a hand over the roughly trimmed beard he had taken to wearing.

"Heavenly father ... today I go before the might of people who would conquer and oppress free people. I ask not that you protect me from the might of their arms, or the edge of their blades ... I ask that you protect my men, and if I ... or any of my men, need die to secure the freedom of the people of this land ... then I ask that it is I that you take to your service ...guide my blade, guide my hammer ... tonight I ask you to give mercy to my enemies ... because they shall receive none from me."

One large hand, wrapped in leather and steel links, along with a steel plate on the back, would slip forwards, and wrap slowly around the wooden haft of a horse mans war hammer. The long wooden handle leading down to a perfectly squared spike of heavy iron. The iron spike, was stained a dark crimson color. So it was that he emerged from his office, armored and armed as one should be in such circumstances. His heavy leather boots echoed off the walls as he moved, his eyes darting from one man to another as he headed towards the stables. He'd stop there at the stables, looking about to see whom had arrived, and whom was already mounted.

As he glanced about he'd call out through the stables. "Members of the Cavalry ... I'll have you know that it has been my pleasure leading you ... and that should I die tonight I've never met a finer group of men and women ... now mount up and prepare for battle ..." The only words from the commander for the moment, before he twisted and moved towards Eidolon's stall, the heavy war horse already straining for the smell of blood. No, this wasn't like most of the cavalry's mounts ... this equine was trained for battle. Too bad they didn't have more like him. So with a single word command, and a gentle pat, Ancaladar would mount that massive horse, gazing about quietly as he let Eidolon start towards the exit of the stables.

-::- Another smirk at Kaleb' words but he remained hushed, steel blues had taken hold another shade of shadow darkening more as the adrenaline pumped through his veins he couldn't wait to get his hands on them. Near careless to surviving but he would, for Alexandria. His right hand griped the rail tighter as the other rested upon the hilt of the sword against his hip, tightening more and more till his knuckles turn white as a ghost, then he let go. Shifting as they all started to dive he wasted no time in pushing off the rail to take a dive into the water.

Most of the way he remained under coming up only to get a mouth full of air and down he'd go again. One might thought he'd turned back till he came up beside Kaleb once more. His voice a near hiss of insanity.. A side of him nobody had ever seen... Not even Alex. -::- " He's mine... " -::- Was all he'd said before he'd start to climb, like a spider nimble and quick. Clinging tight to the side of the ship it were like Thais was replaced by another man... A brute with nothing on his mind but the thought of blood shed and not just any blood.. Saelis blood... It wasn't long till he swung himself aboard along with some of the others. The right side short sword upon his back was pulled as fast as he moved up behind the closest man and slit his throat.. A clean cut deep enough to catch the vocal cord but shallow enough not much blood was sprayed but enough to claim the man' life in seconds... He must have done this all before..

At least ten or more, from how many boarded at the same time, had been taken out before the alarm rose throughout the ship and the war began at sea...-::-

Time had seemed to slow down the moment those bells had rung. She moved through the infirmary making sure things were where they were supposed to be. Pausing as she took a head count of those that she had requested to stay behind while she sent the rest to stay within the safety of the castle walls. Her brow did crease slightly as she thought of what had to be done still to prepare the infirmary for the casualtys that would soon flood its quiet walls.

Turning she made her way to her own quarters to change into something a little cooler and easier for her to manuver in, as well as find the blade that she had hidden between the furs of her bed. She was not going to be caught off guard if they enemy managed to get to the isle and onto dry land. From first hand experience she knew that if they did the enemy would take out the inifirmary and take its resources for thier own injured and she wasnt about to let that happen with out a fight.

Once she had changed and the knife hidden on her person she made her way back to the main area of the infirmary...she needed to make sure that they were ready for what was to come. Glancing aroud those that were gathered she sought out the few healers that had come to work there, she knew Julianna was busy with the Rangers, but where was Sorcha?

One would think Erin would be calm in such a situation since she's been in, well, such a situation before. War was nothing new to her since Valerian County had sadly suffered much from it...and of course, she survived, because she was still here!

But the Irishwoman had naturally drunk some whiskey before this, so the after effects were beginning to kick in. To think she'd be used to that too by now. A soft yelp and a jump, Erin whirled around towards the door when she heard Kieren. What was that fool doing outside? Was he mad? More like a bloody idiot...

She rushed on over, peering out the window first before unlocking the door. "What are you doing out there?" she demanded, but didn't wait for an answer as a hand shot out to grab a hold of his shirt, and yank him back inside. The door was locked again, her back pressed to it as she looked to him. Finally, Erin had collected herself and was somewhat calm and broke the news to him, "War is upon us..."

To be honest, she hadn't the slightest idea as to what was going on...besides the fact that war was coming and everyone was preparing for it. Alessia arrived at the military building, scanning those dark hues around to notice the different divisions lining up...and naturally, she wasn't a part of any of them. Well, this wasn't her home and she didn't plan on making it her home, however, Aless couldn't stop that thought in her head, that drive to help out...It was almost sickening. She shouldn't care, and yet...she did.

With a heavy sigh, she began to approach closer. She was no warrior, but she was decent enough, having fought in a few battles in her day...though maybe not as big as this. She was a rogue, and mainly did anything she put her mind to. "Hey! I'm here to help! Where should I go?!" she called out as loud as she could, repeating herself as she'd pass by each division. Alessia felt like an idiot, and the words, 'I'm here to help' sounded so foreign coming from her mouth. But it didn't matter- This was to cleanse herself of her past sins, a past memory she could not hide and would forever haunt her until she did something about it. Well, this was that something. Hopefully one of the commander's would hear her call and allow her to join.

Ugh, she must be sick or dying to be thinking all this...

"Are you frightened, dear Julianna?" she replied, taunting her again. Julianna was to say something in return, but had been silenced by the alarms. So had she. Those hazel hues widened, perhaps in some fear, but the rest of her appeared to be relatively calm. This was to be her first war...And though she knew it was coming, a part of her didn't believe it would, that they'd live on just believing so.

With a hard swallow, she spoke to Julianna though didn't look at her right away...arm pointing towards something on the ground nearby, "Could you...hand me my helmet...?" she asked her calmly, finally looking over and down at her. Once it was given to her, she offered a faint smile before holding it in the curve of her arm, the opposite one that still held the lance.

A heavy silence fell over them, both knowing what all this meant. Terra wanted to embrace her sister and wish her luck, but knew that would only make matters worse. The thought of losing her would kill her, and to dwell upon that would make things worse for the both of them. Terra took in a deep breath and let it out slowly, nodding to her sister. "I will see you soon," she spoke, almost matter-of-factly. She refrained from saying anything more, about making sure she stayed alive and watched her back. No, all she would say to follow her previous words would be, "Love you, sister." Then a heel dug into Altair's side to carry her off towards the gathering cavalry.


. S h e. couldn't sleep that night. There was such a heaviness in the air, she could feel the war and what was just about to happen to Avalendor.
Quietly, she stood in front of her window, staring out at the peaceful night that had fallen over the isle. It wouldn't last long. No. The quiet sounds would change to shouts and rushing. And then the war would arrive and there would be sounds that Avalendor hasn't heard since before Alexandria's time as queen.
She sighed quietly. Time was non-existant in the moments Nemesis stood at her window. Green eyes watched. . . Waiting.

And then the sounds of the horn and the town's bells. She remained where she was, frozen. A hand simply moved to her growing stomach. How would such a small thing be able to survive all of this stress? With the death of Brennus, and now with the war. Fingers brushed over the fabric of her black dress, over her swollen stomach. She had spent days convincing herself that she needed to go on. That she needed to protect the child as best she could. She would not turn into her mother. She wouldn't let herself do what her mother had done many years ago. Brennus would live on in the child. And now she had to fight. Not just for the baby, but for herself.

Avalendor came to life quickly. The people began scrambling out of their homes, the military began lining up and preparing to fight. But what could she do but just stand there and watch? She couldn't fight. She couldn't leave. Both were too risky.

Finally, the horn and the bells fell silent. Nemesis sighed silently and moved to her desk, quickly pulling out some parchment and her quill. She scribbled a few quick notes down. All of which said the same thing.

Dear Allies of Avalendor,

I send you this missive by my messenger bird, Athena. It is the safest way for me to do so. War has arrived upon our shores. War has begun. I cannot send a messenger to your lands to inform you, so my letter will have to do. Your militaries will be most helpful and we appreciate your remaining upon our shores in this long wait. This war will be a large one, and we could use whatever help we could get.
My point to this letter, is just to simply inform you war has begun.

If you should know of any other lands that would benefit us in this war, please send word to me. Athena will assist in bringing your words back.
She knows what she is to do.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Nemesis Arundel
Ambassador of Avalendor.


The parchment papers were rolled up and tied with simple silver colored ribbon. Each kingdom name was written upon the ribbon so that whomever Athena brought the letters to, could take the one it belonged to. She moved towards the large cage that contained the beautiful brown eagle and she opened the door. She was carefully lifted, perched on her arm, and the letters were tied to its claws. Quietly, she went to the window, and pushed it open. "Fly to the allied lands, Athena." She extended her arm and the bird flew off, seeming as if she knew where she was going.
Nemesis watched her until she flew out of sight. A sigh escaped her lips and she glanced around.

Alexandria had ordered that people flee to the castle to stay together. She glanced around her room. She didn't want to leave all of her things behind. But she decided it would most likely be safer for her. Also, for her to keep an eye on the queen. If she couldn't fight herself, she could at least try some spells on trying to protect the queen and the castle.

She scrambled around her room, reaching for a bag that she slung over her shoulder. She tossed a few books within it, followed by some herbs and a few vials of liquid. Some other important things she did not wish to part with were thrown in, as well, before she finally slid her bare feet into a pair of shoes and threw a shawl around her shoulders. She moved as quick as she could, careful of the child. One hand held the strap of the bag onto her shoulder, while the other held onto her stomach, supporting it in every step she took. She left her manor and with cautious eyes, she headed for the .c a s t l e .


Mairi sent her reply as soon as she received the letter, returning it with the bird. Before she sent the avian away, she looked over her and made sure that she was fed. Athena slept on a perch while Mairi penned he reply.

Nemesis,
Thank you for the news. I received a message from my brother, Carrick, indicating that war was definitely close. I regret to inform you that my military commander, naval commander, one to two ships, and our primary military force have all been lost and are currently missing in action. As for other allies who might aid, I would suggest a land I know little about--GodThab, to the north and east. My former General, Collin O'Donnell (SilentArchon AKA James of course) is a councilman there. Between us, I am hoping for an alliance with them, but refused to agree upon one until seeing their land. I believe they have a queen (melodieofanangel) who might be willing to assist.

I apologize for being unable to aid you. In times of desperation such as these, we value the friendship of Avalendor. May my brother and the Goddess serve you well.

Mairi ni Tuatha'an of Clann O'Neill
Ceannfort and Sage Healer of Ulster


He stood quietly on the docks, his deep set eyes staring from behind that mask of wrinkled leather. He was old, and this war was going to be a young mans fight. Or a young woman's, as was the case for his daughter. He was proud of her, and of that he had been sure that she knew. So there he stood, the darkness of the night covering everything around him, with the exception of the few pubs and torches that were lit behind him, in the small port that lined Avalendor's docks. The sound of those bells rang off right behind him.

A slow twist of his waist, and those old eyes lowered upon where the bell rang out in the darkness, then quick as a viper they shot back towards the water ... war was upon them. He would turn and quietly move along those wooden planks towards the shore, his boots clicking against the solid docks with soft thuds as the water lapped at their pilon's. No, he was needed at the castle ... he could serve as the last line of defense. He was a Knight after all. A knight without honor, and a knight without service, but a knight in his heart.

So it was that Asyllar Northam would move along the roads, his hand resting on the simple long sword that he still wore at his hip, his other hand tightened around the leather wrapped grip of his staff. Now that the sounds of war were sounding, he felt his heart begin to race and his blood pump. This was what being young again felt like. He would let a small smile slip over his lips as he moved past some children and young women fleeing towards the castle. One of them stumbled, and Asyllar stooped to help the child back to it's feet. "Come along now ... don't run, but make haste ... we've a bit of time yet ..." He'd continue on however at a rather brisk pace. Asyllar Northam ... would serve one last time.

Aoife would see the Older Man with the look of a solider about him scooting along the children. Everyone was rushing, although Aoife was not one to dawdle, she’d purse those pink lips as she watched him and his quick step.

He seemed to walk ages younger then he appeared, but she’d let out a breath as she looked out towards the coast. A little frown marring that pretty pucker as she shifted the heavy weight in her slim arms to the gentle round of a hip, although hidden under the layers of belled skirts. The basket was filled with provisions she could trade for, foods for her and her flock, threads to keep her occupied in case of quick escape. Not that her loom and spindle didn’t provide enough for her to do. She’d have to go cut some grasses; thank goodness she had the hindsight to stock up on alfalfa for the sheep.

Her gentle walk would be following the older Man’s, though not as quick, she knew not how much time they had, but she knew she was in no need to rush as everyone else did. Invaders were old hat to her, wide cornflower blues absently following the children, then back to the Solider Man and the width of his shoulders.

Aoife had nothing much else to do, her cottage out of the way, nothing of real value for thieves, save cloths and fabrics, or her sheep. Which was the reason people looked at her oddly, she supposed, going about her chores and getting odds and ends before the panic really struck the poor island folk. A light huff as she readjusted the basket on her hip, her stride still in the wake of the Man’s.

Her eyes darted every which way, watching over all her men, until Carrick shouted that he was there and informed her they had plenty of weapons, but there would be more if they were to need any. A simple nod was given to him. "Good. Thank you." She nudged Silver to move forward and she rode back and forth infront of the formation line her men had made. It wasn't until Marcus' shout that a small grin formed upon her lips.

Once the shouting came to a cease, she spoke up, loud enough. "Right men.. Let's not get too cocky here. The war has not even touched land yet. None of us know how many we will need to fight. Keep your guards up at all times." She eyed Marcus for a moment and then offered him a nod, glad to see he was standing amongst them, ready to fight with them.

For now, they would wait. It was all they could do while the navy of Avalendor did what they could to keep the enemy away from the shores. Naevah continued to have her horse pace back and forth in front of the lines, her grey-blue eyes watchful of the shores, mainly. She was waiting for signals or signs that would let her act on what needed to be done.

She glanced down when she heard the voice of the woman, saying that she wished to help out and asked where to go. She eyed her curiously, trying to judge just by her appearance which division to send her off to. But she'd ask instead. "How do you fight, lady? Do you have a horse, or can you fight on foot? Or maybe with a bow? Or are you best at sea?" She didn't know the woman, so she was trying to find out about her so she could better direct her where to go. An eyebrow rose slightly as she studied the woman more, waiting for her answer so she could.

To be honest, she was damn near ready to just walk away...find a small sailboat of some kind and get off this horrid rock. She was trying to be nice, but her voice was going unheard for a long while...and Alessia knew she was loud. However, another female voice caught her attention, causing her to stop and regard the infantry commander. A tilt of her chin in order to look the woman in the face, she felt almost...too petite standing there before her. A parting of lips to reply to the first question, Aless was unable to answer because another question came, and then another...and just when she thought Naevah was going to ask something else again, Alessia managed to blurt out quickly, "I don't do horses, I don't do bows...But I can impale things with pointy swords." Her reply was honest, but also rather sarcastic. This was a time of war, perhaps she should try to be just completely serious, hmm? A shake of her head as if in apology, she continued, "I can fight on foot, and I'm somewhat familiar with sea tactics." She was no great warrior, but there was no doubt Alessia could hold her own. It was what she did, how she lived and survived.

Naevah listened to the woman, a patient look rested upon her features as she waited for her to finish. When the pause came, Naevah took a deep breath and thought carefully. "Well. The decision is yours to make. You can stay here...in our lines in the infantry and fight with us, or you can hurry over towards the ship port and jump onto a ship and fight with the navy. Either way, you'll need weaponry and armor or some sort." Naevah didn't wear much armor, it slowed her down, but she carried a shield, which at the moment was dangling tied up at the side of her horse. "You can run over back into the military building to the armory and pick out what you can use. Then if you're fighting with us, meet us back here, otherwise, the ships are just about ready to attack the enemy."

She glanced around, watching the faces of her men again. They all seemed to look strong and ready, prepared for whatever was going to come their way. And in that moment, she felt somewhat proud that she had done all she could to prepare them, and that they were ready to do all they can to fight to defend Avalendor.

Seraphim had nothing left to do. Or nothing left that she felt like doing. Keenly made armor for a woman was made and sent off towards the castle in a secured crate, stuffed with straw to keep any rattle from emitting. It was simply posted to the Queen’s servant, Zane. He would open it; know what to do with the near gleaming armor that she measured the Queen for in secret. The armor was much like Terra’s, plain chest and back plate secured with hearty leather straps and strong buckles, the metal, for what it was, was surprisingly light. A short gladiator like skirt was a separate part, and though Zane thought grieves would be unwise, she’d supplied shin guards and bracers for her forearms. On the upper right of the breast plate there was a simple engraving the Queen’s initials, small though so no one could really suspect.

She had done the same for Terra, if she recalled. The blurred and heated days seemed to meld together like the metals under her hands and hammers. Numerous burns, though none serious, were sprinkled over her hands, arms, one even on her thigh when she had forgotten to put her apron back on. Her wide mouth was set in a firm line now. Homespun sheath dress with the proper under clothing as well, but the not so proper thick leather belt that held her most useful items. It seemed to cinch her small waist, the heavy iron head of a hammer a pleasant weight against her thigh as she walked to her door.

Canting her head at Murphy, who canted it back at her, she’d open the door and hold it for him as he trotted out. Where are we going, he’d ask silently to her. Aloud she’d respond so that the dog would lead her on towards the Military building, “Let us go to Carrick.” And off he bounded. That generally lazy gracey gait that would seem to take her ages to get anywhere was actually up to a quick pace. Yes, let’s go find Carrick.


-::- War, all things seemed to evolve around it now but the time finally came and it was here.. He paused and stepped back glancing around to take note after what seemed hours they had gained power of the ship and all of the Sealis men upon it were put to death in the most brutal ways.. A sort of pay back it would seem. The navy had lay waste to at least two ships before the others had raised the alarms he could hear them cutting through the air like hot knives through butter. But where was Kaleb? He looked around moving now as he searched the ship he called out to the others. -::- " Turn the ship head to the isle! and fast! We'll leave the rest to the allies I have high douts the first wave will get past "

-::- As they scattered to try and speed the ship as much as possible, and he moved to continue in his search... There was no sign of him, it were as if he vanished into thin air leaving no sign to those left behind. He darted to the rail to lean over enough to search the waters.. Not there either, and even if he had been it was far to dark still even now and the body if there was one would have sank from dead weight and weapons the man carried.. He shook his head, already one commander was gone he hoped the others had more luck. He sneered and pushed off the rail to turn back.

The journey back to the isle was uneventful and seemed a lot slower than it had been. Sealis hot on their heals but the two ships were allowed passage once learned who they really were this could be used to their advantage if the ships weren't destroyed. Yes, a diversion and lies.. He never though such sinful and unlawful things could be so useful.. He wouldn't even wait for the ship to dock before he was over the rail and jumped to the dock to dart down to where he'd left the mustang.. It had been waiting patiently a bit cautious from the scent of blood upon him but there were no visible wounds just a lot of filth from battle mainly.

The suit was pulled off and he mounted.. -::- " Come my friend it is time we make haste once more. We must reach the castle before Sealis reach the shores " -::- And so they were off like a bullet the mustang took off knowing Thais wouldn't fall it paid no mind in being careful. Taking a short cut through the forests to evade people it wasted no time leaping over fallen limbs and bushes, and dodging trees.. Some even Thais hadn't thought they could get through but the mustang never seemed to cease to amaze him . . -::-

[Soleil]

He was in a daze. Blinking a couple times when he heard the alarms going off and the pitter patter of footsteps rushing about beyond the door in the halls of the citizen' manor.. He sighed and rose to his feet, having not been able to fall asleep yet it was usual for he never really slept till almost dawn so the time was not bad for him like most. He moved from his quarters ignoring the others and darted down the hall and out. The blackened cloak bellowed behind him as he moved.. The cavalry was most likely meeting around the military building but something else caught his attention. Darkened eyes hidden by the deep shadow of night not to mention the hood the hung down over his face hiding his identity, would watch silently as he stopped in the shadow of the tree. Eyes narrowed faintly but not in a hostile manner as he watched the woman coming out of the manner... holding her.. stomach? He blinked and shook his head, last time he saw her, she' told him to take a flying leap of the dock, and he had.. He smirked at the memory continuing till he reached the blackened horse and mounted. Grasping the reins within gloved hands he moved to intervene her path.. " You know it'd be faster if you traveled by horse. . " Spoken as he dismounted before her though still held the reins to keep the horse there before her. She'd not be able to identify him by site but would most likely guess who he was by that voice.. Though it was calmer than before and not so cruel to the ear.

. S h e. had moved along with haste, walking as quickly as she could, despite trying to keep her body from not becoming too over worked, as well as to carry the bag she had draped over her shoulder. She stopped suddenly as the rider came towards her and then dismounted. She recognized his voice and it had caused her eyes to narrow slightly at him. The two of them had never gotten along and she wasn't in the mood for his ill tempered manners at the moment. There were more important things at hand than to bicker with the man. She sighed and shook her head. "Yes, and my horse is in the stables...So either way I'd have to walk the distance." Nemesis was tired and weakened. So many things had come along and affected her, and she didn't have much fight left in her at this time. Her voice was calm and did not hold that usual sarcastic manner it typically did. She slid both her hands onto her stomach and briefly closed her eyes, letting out a small moan as a small shock of pain ran through her body. She was putting too much stress on the baby. She couldn't keep going through all of this or it would die before it could be born. She opened her eyes again and shook her head. "I need to get to the .c a s t l e ..."

Perhaps for once he'd come at the right time instead of the wrong.. Normally he'd turn and leave her be but for once she wasn't sarcastic or hostile towards him.. Which was a nice change but suspicious non-the-less though he'd not badger nor pester her.. " Then let me help you. " He wasn't here to fight and he'd seemed to change a lot since she'd last come across him. He wasn't as cautious nor held back as much, alot of things had happened obviously. He could tell she was warring herself thin and even though he never got along with her, it worried him.. Yes, he worried about people other than himself though you'd have a hard time getting him to admit it aloud. He frowned seeing her in pain.. No matter how they fought he never wanted to hurt her, nor have her hurt by anyone but nobody could protect anyone from emotion. Sad but true, a hard earned lesson he'd endured a few times. " Come, I'll help you climb on my horse. I can have yours brought to the castle later, it would take too long to ready your horse for the travel.. " Why was he being so nice?

. T y p i c a l l y. she would have refused the offer of help. She hated to appear weak and in need of help from anyone. But the walk would take a lot out of her and there wasn't much time. She slowly nodded to Orin, accepting his offer to help her. The war of Avalendor was here. Now was definitely not the time to be fighting with other Avalendorians, no matter how much they had before. She really did not think too much on Orin's unusual niceness, because she figured he was doing it to help get her to safety before the war would touch ground. Her feet moved her closer towards his horse. She was trying to rush, but it was proving to be difficult. "I know you have to get to your division line... Don't waste any time trying to get my horse to the castle. I'll be staying there with Alexandria." She nodded with confirmation and moved up to his horse, one hand gripping onto the top of the saddle to ready herself to climb .u p .

He nodded at her words, relieved she wasn't going to fight about it or refuse. He directed the horse to turn so she'd be able to get to the saddle easier and the horse would kneel down for her. If she needed the added assistance he knelt down careless of the dirt so she could use his knee as a stepping stool. However that was her choice. " Don't worry about me. I know Ancaladar' patience are most likely warring thin with me but the worse that could happen is I lose the job.. However you know me, that won't stop me from fighting for Avalendor. So either or my decision' out come would bring me no surprise, for I know he'd understand. " Not to mention he was lucky enough not to lose it already but he'd not bring that up no need to. From being that close he could see the swollen stomach and frowned though the frown would be hidden by the cloth of the hood.. He douted that it wasn't Brennus' yes he knew of the rumors everyone had. Plus her reactions at the funeral gave off a lot.

.S h e. waited as the horse knelt down for her and she carefully climbed onto him, using Orin's assistance. No words were spoken in response, but she gave him a simple nod, more as if he were talking to himself, trying to convince himself that his tardiness wasn't a big deal. She doubted that anyone would be kicked out of the military at this time, unless, of course, they turned against Avalendor and fought for the enemy. As the horse would stand back up, she glanced back down at Orin. "Thank you for your assistance." Her hand returned to her stomach as she sat there upon his horse, piercing green eyes lifted to glance around as the other citizens and military members were scrambling about, trying to get to where they needed to .b e .

Once she was atop the horse it stood within direction, as he stood then moved to mount behind her. He'd reach around her to grab the reins again and a faint kick of his heals to the sides of the horse and it would gallop away without much hesitance. He used the reins to direct the horse and avoid any obstacle they may have, being cautious many from her being with child. Yeah, he figured it out doubtful she could gain that much weight in one area in such little of time but would never bring up the subject because he didn't want to start a fight with her. The hood barely moved and he was careful not to crowd her.. Not one word would come from him the entire way.

. S h e. moved forward slightly onto the horse as Orin moved to climb onto it and sat behind her. She felt his arms around her and she closed her eyes, feeling almost sick to her stomach. Not because of him, but just because of everything, and the baby within her. For the entire ride to the castle, she remained silent. Her eyes continued to glance around, watchful of everything around that she could see. When they reached the castle, she sat straighter on the horse, knowing that she had to put aside her hostile and bitter nature to do what she could to help out. She wasn't as selfish of a person as she typically seemed. And she really did care, despite how bad she was at showing that. The queen needed her. And she would need her even more if the vision she had had not too long ago, would come true. Though it had been so unclear. She just knew it involved Orin and that necklace that the queen had given to Thais. She had an idea of what it meant, but she didn't want to think on it, or make any assumptions. This was a war, and a lot of bad things would happen. Of this, she was most .c e r t a i n .

Reaching the castle, he'd not really thought he'd be here this soon again but he had come only on assisting her to get here faster. Once they were close enough he'd pull back on the reins slowly and the horse slowed to a gentle stop. Hard to believe a once vicious and uncaring beast could be so gentle and tame but it'd come through alot and he was thankful the least. He dismounted and the horse knelt this time without direction so she could slid off easily and he'd offer a hand to either help her down or take the bag for her till she slid off the horse. Either or was fine. It almost seemed like alot of things were changing that evolved around the war.. Though his only question and conern was.. was it all for the best? Or were things going to get worse? He sighed and shook his head refusing to think about those things, he had duties to fulfill and other things more important to think about.. Like what he'd gotten himself into the night before..

. N e m e s i s. waited for Orin to climb down. And after the horse leaned down for her, she took Orin's arm and carefully slid down from the horse, landing soundly on both feet. She nodded to Orin and forced the smallest hint of a smile. "Thank you, again." She shifted the bag onto her shoulder a bit more, one hand holding it up in place against the top of her shoulder. Her other hand curled around her stomach and then she glanced back to the castle. "Have you seen your sister yet tonight? Where would she be, do you think?" It was really hard to tell. Nemesis doubted that she would be sitting around in her room. She shook her head and turned to face Orin. She could see the distant look in his eyes as if he had a lot on his mind and his mind was on one specific thing at that time. Nemesis smirked her typical sarcastic smirk and actually let out a small laugh. "Forgive me for saying... But what kind of fool makes such empty promises right at the start of a war?" She raised a brow at him. How had she figured that something like that was up? No, she did not know the exactness of her words. She could just sense them from the look in his eyes. She could tell he was perhaps wondering the same thing, so she had spoke his thoughts out loud for .h i m .

He would offer a faint smile though knowing she couldn't have seen it he would nod to show his acknowledgement.. He was quite for a time as the horse rose back to stand on it's own, he was never too good at conversation.. Though when she mentioned his sister he rose his head to look to her, brow furrowed for a moment before he answered. " I.. I'm not sure. Last I spoke with her was two nights ago and it was late so she was in her chambers. But with the alarms going, knowing her she'd be anywhere. " No he wasn't stupid, he knew she'd be doing something to involve herself with the war he hadn't spent his childhood with her and learned nothing. Though he hadn't the foggiest idea what she was up to none-the-less. A smirk at her words about promises and he shook his head. " Now common. Nemesis. You of all people know me, who would I make any promise to? " He would cant his head to the side softly. Regretting the fact she only knew the bad side of him in that instant and winced at his own words shaking his head.

. S h e. smirked again and shrugged her shoulders. "Who knows. But it's written all over your face that you're not certain about something you've recently agreed to... A promise you've made, perhaps?" She shrugged again and let out a sarcastic laugh. "You of all people... I'd never imagine you doing such a thing. Always too distant and cruel towards others." She shook her head. "Good luck with whatever it is. I'm sure it will work out as it is supposed to." She wasn't too keen on the idea of love or happiness anymore. Those things did not exist in her life. For as long as she could remember, anything good that came to her was soon and somehow taken away from .h e r.

At one time he wasn't to keen on the idea either but for once someone had convinced him it wasn't so much a distraction but he shook his head once more maybe he was right? She was all he thought about and it burned at him sometimes he would ignore it, hearing her words he fought back saying something he knew he'd regret and only shook his head sighing softly. " Perhaps.. But sometimes even the darkest hearts can be lead to the light.. but it is not the promise you are thinking of. " That much was true. It wasn't entirely that promise that clouded his thoughts but another. One that as the days passed by and the war was knocking at their door the harder it was to keep but the question was would he keep this promise? Or prove some many rumors about him correct? He never did have a good reputation with promises..

. N e m e s i s. slowly nodded. She wasn't about to stand there wasting her time trying to pick at him and get him to tell her anything. She honestly didn't care about his personal life. A small clear of her throat was given and spoke evenly. "Right. Well. Thank you again. I need to go find Alexandria now." She sighed and looked him over briefly. "You... Take care of yourself and be careful. She has already lost enough in her life...Don't you let her lose you too." And before he could really say anything, she turned and began to carefully walk towards the .c a s t l e .

Given the chance to or not his words would still echo from his lips rather or not she'd heard was the question he just lacked the care. " Rora is the last person I wish to let down.. I have done alot of things and this is my chance to make it right.. I do intend on doing so. " Rather or not she listened he didn't care only turned back to the horse pulling a couple sugar cubes from his pocket as a reward for being kind instead of tossing the woman. Once the horse took the cubes he moved to mount and would take up the reins and leave in peace..


The military building was all a buzz. Men and women alike, were all running around preparing themselves. People were breezing by each other as if the scenery was in fast forward and they were stuck in slow motion. Zane was like this also, but at the stables. He had rushed over and retrieved Artemis from her stall. In the process he could have sworn he saw Naevah talking to him. In fact, he knew she had. She had referenced their inside joke and as she had, a wink was flashed in her direction. But there was more. She had to throw out that she planned on winning their little contest. The smile graced across his face, sinking into dimples at the corners. A comment was being formed in response but she had fluttered off before he could say anything. Instead he was left standing there with his beautiful mare.

"Are you ready for this girl?" He spoke softly to his horse, his hand holding a brush to her coat. He was brushing out her neck, which seemed odd at a time like this. "Don't worry, we have plenty of time girl." After his pep talk with his horse he turned to put the brush away and place her saddle upon her. The straps were tightened and his shield was lifted and attached in it's place.

Zane seemed slow and non rushed. He moved through his preparations as if checking them off a list of things to do. Each goal had a tick mark next to it and now he was moving on to his next task. As he moved he spoke loudly and calmly to the fellow Calvary. He would tell them where to go and occasionally give them words of hope, calming the last minute jitters.

"Alright men and ladies. We all know what to do, we have been practicing for this moment. Lets fill up our jugs of water and get into formation. Don't rush your preparations. Trust me, the war won't start with out you! Make sure all bindings are tight and everything is in its place."

He would help out his commander in preparing the troops and then when there was a chance he would slip away. His disappearance would not last long for he would be back with their extra fighter. But he would wait until the time was right. Good thing the armor was there waiting for him.

Carrick had instructed the wolfhound to remain at Seraphim's side. He stood in line, a confident example as he awaited further orders from his commander. When he heard Murphy's bark, he didn't turn, but he cast the dog an angry look from the corner of his eye, a tight grip on his spear. The Celtic design of the targe strapped to his back could be seen from a distance away.

Trying to remain as an example to the men, the heavily armed Irishman looked down at the dog. Instead of seeming eager to fight, the dog was wagging his tail, as though he'd just done something right.

"Go back to Seraphim," he said to Murphy, hoping no one else would hear, "Ye are to protect her, understand?"

In response, the dog barked, drawing the attention of some of the men as would a mascot, and then retraced his own steps not so far back, barking more. Anger welled within Carrick. Whatever happened, Seraphim was the last person he wanted in harm's way, and that was a certainty. He had been mentally prepared to kill.

Eventually, he turned, and he saw the woman approaching. Trying to think of what to say, he met the blacksmith's face with a cold, war-hardened look and then turned back forward. He announced to Naevah,

"The blacksmith is here."

Everything within him wanted to drop the weapons and hold her, tell her a hundred things he'd held back. But it was now war. If she was to fight, he would admire that, but he would insist that she was in his unit. He waited to see what his commander would say, keeping emotions from his eyes.

Carrick scratched a small, sweaty patch of skin just below his neck. As he pulled aside the top of the tunic, he briefly revealed the edge of a greenish-blue tattoo.

Without a free hand, both fairly occupied in the undertaking of the task, keeping the peace and order, while making sure all that were not to bear arms would find way to the castle for the much needed protection to come. Granted they were the future of the Kingdom, and those with weapons at the ready were willing to die to see the future deed done...thus Theron was one of them. With the burning plate armor glistening like a pearl, the steady and elegant stride carried him swiftly through and along the crowds. Whilst emerald pools studied and surveyed the grounds, whisping through the countless faces, some known and others still fresh. Leaving a hand at the rear, in note to the flowing blue cape that swirled in the breaking wind, less likely to catch a stranger and cause for a scene. Little of worries, but plenty stored within, unable to part or bury, they were simply there...wanting to escape and roam. "Hurry along!" Free hand placed upon a random shoulder, giving a mental sense of encouragement and placing those at ease to the coming peril. May the Gods bless and protect us, in our most desperate time of need.

. N e m e s i s. was closer to the castle now, thanks to Orin that had provided her with a ride from her manor to the castle with his horse. She felt tired quicker and she was falling short of breath with every step she made. With all of the excitement and worry going on, it made it all the more harder. She weaved through the crowds, trying to move past them and find her way into the castle, as the rest were. She needed to get to the queen to ensure that she was safe and that she'd know she would be around to help her out in whatever way she could. But the crowd caused her to stop, leaving her unable to push her way through any further. She sighed, one hand moving to her slightly swollen stomach. None of this could be good for the baby, she was certain. Then she felt the hand upon her shoulder. Eyes narrowed and she glanced up to the man that was seemingly trying to push her along. She pulled her shoulder away from his grasp and she spoke with that strangely tinted accent. One that sounded more Roman than English or Irish or Scottish, like the rest of them from around here. "I'm moving as fast as I can. Which is more than you could say for yourself." Her words were spoken slightly sarcastic and rudely. She was judging him by his armor that he fought in the military, yet he was not falling into lines like the rest of them were at the moment, but instead, trying to push along the civilians into the castle now? She raised a brow and lifted her chin up, her eyes remaining narrowed on him. "Shouldn't you be preparing to fight along with the .r e s t ? " .


In the midst of it all, it was hard to tell who he would touching, or what gesture was directing towards whom. Yet, with a near empty stomach, the present wasn't the best time to try and rock the boat. To the sudden shift in motion, where the hand fell upon, from under the helm his head shifted towards as ears caught the string of words...leaving a something blank expression upon fair, yet weary features. Attempting to collect his thoughts, it wasn't as if he was pushing anyone, nor even a violent shove. All was to maintain a steady flow and insure that all knew where to go, and time was of the essence, and nothing to interfere with willingly. Both feet came to a quick halt, ceasing in presence of sound and motion, bringing legs to lock and stature to full height towering over most. Yet, before he could attempt at best to a forthcoming response, another group of words forming a sentence slipped from her lips. Feeling the occasional brush against the protected broad shoulders, hand slowly falling to rest on the hilt of the sword immersed into the scabbard. "You can move as fast, or as slow as you desire, m'lady, that truly has no consequence on myself or anyone else." A tone yet soft, then able to project itself even so deep, with a light rasp. For in reality, they were his orders, among the other handful that were assigned to see to the safe passage of those left defenseless. As to why she stood that ground and spoke to him in such a manner slipped by him, and a finger not to be placed upon, nor a hand to push or pull. "And...with all due respect, I've been preparing for this. Unless you have anything to provide that could serve either myself or these people better, please share...if not, then I'd kindly suggest you press on." It was a stretch, but ultimately there was no choice, especially in her position. Theron remained there, letting the flow splinter like it should, still peering down to the lady individual, holding his tongue for now.


. T h e. faintest smirk touched the corners of her lips and she shook her head after he spoke his words to her. The man honestly had no idea who he was speaking to. Most were too afraid to stand up to her or speak against her. Her arms folded over her chest, jaw tightened slightly and she spoke again. "Seeing as how the rest of your division is lining up, waiting for the ships to touch ground so they can begin battle, do you not think you should be joining them, rather than fuss over this crowd, which I am entirely sure can handle themselves? It is not too hard to get from here to there..." She lifted her chin in a fashion to motion towards the castle, which was straight ahead from where she was. "If there are any problems, I can manage them myself, being the ambassador here in Avalendor." There were many, many rumors that went on around Avalendor about her. And most of them were titled as either Nemesis, the Ambassador, or the dark witch. And with such rumors, made others feel they needed to avoid her or else she'd turn them into a frog or something, which wasn't her style of witch craft... But she'd let people believe what they want to. She didn't care, really, what others thought of .h e r .


The partner in crime in due time found sanctuary, sliding the thumb in the loose space, pinning itself between leather and his abdomen. Arms at ease and draping from shoulders, allowing the sight to wander, reading what could be seen while preparing himself for the inevitable. Swift and determined to make her point clear, the mere foot soldier did all that could be done in such a position, then the revelation was exposed and apparently so she held a high title for some. Yet, through his eyes it was a mere title, and what a person did would safely counter their greatness, to even whether or not they would and should be liked or feared. Though, there was not a touch nor hint of it lingering in his presence, the stern emotion carried like a calm storm in twin glistening pearls. A faint nod came, letting eyes fall for a brief moment then to rise meeting her own yet again. "Do you know what occurs before the main attack, m'lady?" It was a serious question he was withdrawn to verbally communicate without second thought, though not one he'd wait for an answer of. "Raids." It was a known tactic to deploy a seperate force on opposing ends, leaving an open doorway to throw those in command off guard, then in time spreading the defenders thin. Nevertheless, in this case, it wasn't something he was strongly considering, though the possibility of it was not left untouched. "Suppose I was with the division, and that were to unfold, I highly doubt this crowd nor yourself could handle it yourselves. Consider myself being here a preparation, ambassador, for I have no doubt in your walking abilities."


. A n o t h e r. quiet smirk was given and she slowly nodded her head, not giving him an answer, but knowing what he was getting at. She supposed he had a good point, but she'd never admit anyone was right. So she just offered him a simple nod and glanced away from him, light green eyes drifting to the crowd in front of her, watching as they were filing into the castle as quickly as they could. She noticed some were pushing and shoving, and there were several guards up front trying to break things up and get order in the way people were moving about. She sighed her hand moving to her stomach and she let out a silent startle of pain. She felt sick to her stomach and there was a small hint of panic that rested within her, for the safety of the child growing inside of her. She didn't want to lose this one because she felt it would be her own fault for its loss. Full lips parted slightly and she took a deep breath, trying to settle and calm her own nerves. She glanced back to the man and sighed again. "Perhaps you should figure out a way to get us all in the castle before the damn war touches .g r o u n d ..."


Where words didn't need to be expressed, the subtle motion and gesture always filled the void. At the simple response expressed on her end, he wasn't about to pursue it any further, for there was but logic to the Queens desire. His own gaze strayed in the same different, emerald hues gathering all that was underway, leaving his fellow brother in arms to tend to the matter. Yet, from the corner of the eye the sudden change in atmosphere brought attention to fall over the ambassador, glancing down towards her belly, then to facial features. Perhaps he journey was longer than the majority, leaving her without the needed food and water, hence the sense of tenderness. Lids to narrow too soon to her remark, that slowly shifted himself in good humor, letting fond lips bend into a smile, at the heels of an inner chuckle. "Now you play the part of flattery, m'lady, making me now feel of use." Another glance fell to her stomach, then back to the castle. "Food you'll find plenty of, and in regards of getting in the castle, I suppose I could make more bearable for yourself...ambassador." Gloved hand parted from his hip, then motioned for her to follow, the clangoring of armor ringing out once more in his approach. Letting a moments glimpse fall over his shoulder to see if she was to follow, only to return forward to the tussle. At the fall of a man before him, Theron bent over to assist, bringing him back to his feet, while brushing the tightly formed group apart. "You'll all find yourself at the same destination, though in sound condition is your choice. Please, form lines and move accordingly."


. N e m e s i s. wasn't too obviously pregnant unless someone really got a good look at her stomach. She nodded to him and moved up behind him, following his lead towards the castle. Her eyes wandered around, watchful of all the people, and the man that Theron had moved to help up. She was tired and felt weak, but that never really stopped her. She was a stubborn woman that rarely gave up. She pushed herself on, which ultimately wasn't good in her delicate condition. Her hands remained upon her stomach as she walked along, careful with every step she took. Most of the people that heard Theron's order, glanced to him, and as they saw Nemesis behind him, they started to listen, forming lines and getting more in order now. She'd nod in approval and smirked. "Well... Seems like they'll listen to someone, .t h e n . . . "


It didn't take long before they attempted at best to make it a civilized movement, knowing not that the effect was not entirely from himself, but that behind him...leaving him oblivious to how the greater majority felt about the woman. Nonetheless, through the partially open line he moved off again, side on, tapping against one person then another, which wasn't a big deal, seeing how he was all...shiny and stuff. Yet, nearing the gates, and soon finding themselves at the majestic of the castle, his gaze never ceased to wander each and every time he stood at the foundation. Certainly a sight to be seen and cherished, that being a small fraction of what they would be fighting and dying for. Then to a familiar face, the royal guard saluted, and Theron did all the same, coming to a stop before him. Letting a quick clearing of the throat, before removing the helmet from his head and tucking it under his arm pit. "The arranged quarters for ambassador..." Reaching a pause, he had yet to know a name, or even accidently come across, his gaze fell over to the woman...allowing her to aid his blank mind.


.S h e. stopped once Theron did to speak to the guard. Her eyes continued to wander around as he stated his reasonings for coming to the front of the castle with the Ambassador in tow. At his pause, she quickly turned her gaze to the guard Theron spoke to and nodded. "Nemesis Arundel. I am also here to speak with the queen and make sure she is safe." There was not much she could do, of course. Nemesis was no fighter or guard. But the two were more or less good friends that went way back. She had promised Thais that she would be there for the queen through the war, and there for her if Thais were to fall. Though she did not know for sure how much help she could be now that her own heart had fallen to such bitterness once again with the death of Brennus. The guard would nod to them and step aside, allowing her entrance. "My lady, you've always had an office and chamber within the castle, I trust you know the way to it." Nemesis nodded in response. "Yes, thank you." She moved passed the guard and into the castle, not turning to see if Theron would follow after her or .n o t .


Taking a step back and clearing the line of sight between the royal guard and the ambassador, finally then the utter of the name printed itself to memory for future reference leaving him no longer blind to situation he put himself in. To the exchange of words to the final, Theron briefly pondered over such a name, threatening in sound, but by nature nothing he was familiar with. As she moved along, and slowly parted away, eyes drifting at the view before falling back to the man. "Is the Queen able for the report?" That much confirmed, he'd find himself within the hallway, some yards behind. The click of heels bouncing off the walls, as the strong posture held firm in the impending motion, making a left to the end and heading towards the private quaters. Unsure to where the ambassador was headed, it would make things a bit more interesting or even awkward if she were on good terms with the Queen, provided his serene yet ominous behavior. May the Gods be kind in that area, and whilst gliding along to meet another set of guards, the quick nod came.


. N e m e s i s. walked as quick as she physically could without putting much strain on herself. She wasn't heading to her quarters at the moment, but instead, was glancing up and down halls, seeking the queen herself. A simple nod was given to Theron. "I am sure she is around here somewhere." The castle seemed to be swarmed and becoming lively with the many people that were wandering about, seeking the rooms and such that they were assigned to. She knew Alexandria would feel a bit more comforted knowing that she was not alone in the castle any longer, but instead had all of her people with her through all of this. She weaved through the castle, and through all the people until she found the queen, directing others to rooms. She called out. "Your majesty..." She rushed over towards her, holding her stomach as she did and as soon as she reached her, she grasped onto the queen's arm but did not embrace her. "Are you .a l r i g h t ? " .


Alexandria was rushing around the castle, helping all that she could. It was late at night and she hadn't even gotten much sleep, though she imagined not too many of them did, either. She was still dressed in her night clothes, but had a robe around her. Her hair was a mess, though it was mostly from the rushing and all the stress of the evening. When she heard the accented and familiar voice of Nemesis, she turned her gaze away from a man she had been helping before she gave him a final direction and moved away from him and towards Nemesis. Though the woman did not embrace her, Alexandria moved to do such, wrapping her arms gently around the woman. She sighed and despite how worried and stressed out she was, she tried her best to remain calm and strong for her people. She nodded. "I'm fine... I'm just trying to help everyone get settled. What is going on out there? Do you know?" She knew that the war was coming but she did not know of the profression or the state of everything. She pulled away from Nemesis and glanced down at her stomach. She hadn't known of her pregnancy until she saw her at Brennus' funeral and noticed her stomach. She shook her head and sighed. "When were you going to tell me?" She motioned to her stomach and shook her head at her. "You need to rest. You should not be out in all of this madness..."


Catching the nod shot in his general direction, once the swarm appeared before his eyes, shimmering orbs kindly danced around the open grounds to see all that was occuring. With a quick adjustment to the hand that held the helm, finding an open space to place it aside and swiftly carried on. Glancing to the woman and taking a moment to stop, saving her from having to push the sack along with her foot, heaving it up and slinging it over on shoulder and moving into the comfort of the room and placing it upon the bed. With the slight mention of thanks, he was already out the door, but not without forming a smile and nod of confirmation. Into the thick and to the flank, seeing the ambassador along the way, moving in that direction. Nearing to, catching sight of the Queen, a woman he only had once the pleasure of being in company with. Falling behind Nemesis, watching the two share the moment, and it would seem as if they knew each other well. A slight wave of doubt chilled his spine, quickly shrugged aside when her majesty inquired on the situation that he had only little knowledge of at the moment. But, knowing well not to speak until spoken to, not wanting to make an ass let alone interrupt. From over the shoulder, it seemed there was a key point of interest in the ladies belly, that brought back the notion early ago outside when she appeared faint. After doing the math, it wasn't an empty belly that all were curious or concerned about, but more so the complete opposite. That much, he was going to assume.


. N e m. shook her head and waved off the queen's concern. "I'm fine." She didn't answer her about why she had not told her. She hadn't told anyone really, because she didn't want stupid rumors spreading around about her, but now that she was starting to show, she had no doubt that the rumors would start to spread and that she best watch out who she spent her time with. She didn't want some innocent man being accused of fathering her child, when the true father was a dead man. One that not too many people really knew or favored. So she'd keep quiet about it. Her shoulders lifted in a small shrug. She didn't need to explain anything. She knew that the queen would be able to put the pieces together herself and figure out that this all had to do with Brennus. "What do you need me to do?" She glanced behind her, feeling the presence of someone behind her, and she saw that Theron was there still. She'd give him a simple nod, it seemed as if he had something to say, so she spoke up. "I found a guard on my way in. He might know a bit more on what is going on .o u t s i d e ..."


A small frown formed on her lips and she shook her head, glancing over the woman for a brief moment. "I don't need you to do anything, Nemesis. I need you to be well and to take care of yourself. Please? If I need anything I will let you know and I will find you. But you are in no condition to be running around worrying like the rest of us." She forced a smile to her before her eyes wandered to the man Nemesis spoke of that stood behind her. She had met him once before during the apple picking event. A gentle smile was offered to him, along with a nod. "My lord? What do you know?" She ran her fingers through her messy hair, smoothing it out and brushing strands behind her ears.


Gaze eventually wandered as the two spoke, till finally the ambassador took acknowledgement of his presence and made that much known for the both of them. Sharply turning back, and with the Queens attention, a soft smile crept on features and shot right back at her, whilst bringing himself to formally bow. "My Queen." Rising back to complete height, he traced over what was important, and hoping to narrow it down and saving her from an earful for it seemed that was the last of her needs. "As requested and as you can see, the civilians are rallying to this destination, expect more in the coming night. No reports of the impending attack yet, though the patrols are thick along the coastline, so when the time comes, we'll know." Pausing there, knowing his place was no longer required here, he slowly let his wet tongue glide across the dry lip then tucked inside his mouth. "If your Queen expects nothing further of myself, then shall presume my post."


. S h e. slowly nodded to the queen, knowing that she would not let her do anything as long as she was around. But Nemesis was just a stubborn woman as the queen seemed to be. She let out a silent sigh and just nodded. "Please do call to me if you need anything." She turned her gaze to Theron then as he answered the queen's question and offered him a small nod before she'd excuse herself from the both of them since the queen pretty much ordered her to go rest. She quietly moved down the hall, but she did not at first go to her room. For any that passed by her looking lost, she'd help out by pointing them in the right direction, and helped the queen out by answering any questions anyone had, so Alexandria would not have .t o .


Alexandria nodded to Nemesis again and offered her a faint smile. "I will, thank you." She watched as Nemesis excused herself before she turned to Theron and nodded to him. "Aye, thank you very much." She'd give him another quick nod to let him know that he could be excused. "Stay safe, my lord..."


Seraphim was not far behind the dog, but she did see the flash of emotions on the Warrior's face. No..perhaps he was embaressed by her apperance, but she would divert her gaze from the man and quietly make that lazygracy way towards their Commander. She was not dressed for battle, the only object on her person that a weapon was the heavy hammer hanging from her hip. She'd stop just off to the side, not in the way, but making it apparent she was there.

Aside from Carrick, her other reason for being there was to be sure that enough weapons were supplied and in good condition. Not that she could do too much more now that enemy was "at the gates." Phim would wait for the commander to take notice so she could speak, she did not want to interupt any rousing speech of, "Let's kill!" or however they did this. Although, she would steal some glances towards the soliders. Murphy would continue his loyality to Carrick, not that she needed protecting at that moment, it was just fine with her.

Carrick at last glanced to Seraphim and offered her a less severe look. He was worried, and concerned. The Irishman held up a hand to the wolfhound. Excited by the oncoming battle and a chance to do his duty, Murphy was full of energy, but at his master's command, he settled down.

He resisted his desire for physical closeness. War had made Carrick very serious; on his face was a grave expression. He could die, and now he had an opportunity to lose.

"I'd like ye locked up somewhere safe or right by my side," he spoke as softly as he could into her ear, his form creating a protective shadow around her, "But it isn't up to me." He glanced to his commander and then stood forward, at attention, wondering what she'd say.

"If anything happens to me, I want my sister to get the sword ye made." He was not looking at her when she said it, merely understanding the possibility which he'd confronted in battle many times before, since his first kill at age nine.

Phim did not catch the softer look, she had her eyes on her feet for the moment. But she did hear his soft words. She wanted to lean against him. Though that would be unacceptable on so many levels. Would it not? She would not answer him.

Death was always at their heels. That was nothing new. Fire, plague, invasions, old age. It did not matter, it was just a fact. Her slender body would shift lightly, her pinky finger would stretch just so, touching the side of his hand in a brief touch. Nothing noticeable, nothing scandalous.

Now she would turn her head towards him, giving him her hazel gaze.

-::- It hadn't taken too long before he reached the castle, the horse not bothering to stop would kick the front doors in and continue on. Despite his tug the horse barely slowed till he jumped off. -::- " Calm my friend no need in harming yourself in here for me. Go now. " -::- Taking little time to note if the horse had or not he moved up the stairs wasting no time in his search for alexandria. -::- " Alex?!?!? Where are you?!?!"

Alexandria was moving around the castle quickly, trying to help those that had come in as she had ordered. There was plenty of room for the civilians to take up shelter at Eveliegh castle while the war was going on. She was pointing and directing others where to go. When she heard Thais' voice yell out for her, she stopped what she was doing and turned, sapphire eyes darting around in search of him. She pointed to a hallway for a man that she had been helping. "It's just over that way. I'll be with you as soon as I can..." She rushed off then, darting quickly down the hall until she came to the steps and saw Thais moving up them. She ran over to him and threw herself into his arms, wrapping hers around his. "Thais! What is going on out there?" She was on the verge of tears, and she started to shake slightly out of fear. She felt short of breath and nervous about everything. Alexandria was a mess but she was trying to hard to remain calm and strong for her people.


-::- So many people and faces filled with worry, fright and some even sorrow.. He shook his head ignoring the gutt feeling as the necklace weight seemed to be heavier than ever but he ignored it.. Moving up the staircase just as he turned down the hall to continue and he was bombarded by someone. The scent calmed him almost instantly and he knew it was here before he saw her face. He would wrap his arms around her in return for a moment feeling safe there but knew it'd not last long. He pulled away only slightly the look of seriousness never left. But steal blues never hid anything from her.. -::- " Bring grave news... I am sorry it seemed to be all I bring but we are in need of a new naval commander... Kaleb...was lost. " -::- His hands rose to gently cup her face but only briefly. -::- " I've come but not for long.. They are attacking in waves.. and only the gods know exactly how many.. We managed to take two ships before being forced to retreat but i have a plan for such ships if they survive... "


Her sapphire colored eyes searched him of any serious injurries. She had no doubt he had already started fighting even before the ships reached ground. His hair was wet and she could tell he was part of the raid that attacked the ships and took down the two he spoke of. She frowned, her eyes widening slightly at his mentioning that Kaleb was already lost and they were in need of a new commander. She looked away from him, eyes searching the hallways as if she'd find a solution somehow there. But there was nothing to give her an answer. So she thought of those she knew. Thought about those already in the military, already in the navy, perhaps. But no one stuck out to her. Finally, she thought of someone and glanced back to Thais, her hands resting on his shoulders and she spoke out. "Zane... He is in the cavalry now. The one that's been training me. He's lived on ships his entire life. Maybe he will step up as Navy commander. Ask him. If he cannot, find someone already in the Navy that looks as if they can step up. I do not think Kaleb had an assistant commander. But get someone that is not a private." She sighed and lifted a hand off of Thais, brushing strands of hair out of her face. Then she placed her hands on his face and she stared at him in the eyes. Her own filling with worry and concern. "How are you holding up, my love?" She quickly kissed his lips and looked at him. "Are you hurt at all?"

-::- He had indeed already started fighting though any blood she'd find was not his own, he was more careful and guarded, the traits of the rangers never leaving him. He shook his head softly at the mention of seeking out someone that could be lost in battle already, and it wouldn't be safe to ask such and distract each other from the fight. No that'd have to wait, he had faith in Kaleb' training and knew the navy knew well of the plans that awaited them. Brows furrowed in question almost at the quick kiss and the questions that followed. He sighed though noded. -::- " It is hard to be fine in such times but I am wearing as well as I can be. No injury has befallen me yet. " -::- Yet, such a gruesome word that caused him to wince in realization of what exactly he said. -::- " I can't seek him out now, the war is upon our shores. My men need me too much for me to track down one man right now. The ships are sailing in, there's no time. " -::- He frowned at that fact, steal blues regarded her for a moment before offering a light smile as he asked. -::- " How are you faring? "

She understood Thais' situation and not being able to find Zane through all of this to ask him. War was already reaching their shores, and it would mostly out of the navy's hand now, unless they could still get the ships that were still coming. She sighed, her eyes never leaving his face as he assured her that he was not injured. . . yet. The word had made her frown slightly but she just nodded, her hands placing on his shoulders. She stared him right in the eyes and forced the faintest smile, though it was a smile that held such sadness and worry. She just shook her head and let out a saddened laugh. "I am as well as I can be, I suppose. I am alive... That's about all I can say. I'm shaken up and scared to death, but I'm alive..." Her eyes filled up with tears slightly, but she held them back as she looked to Thais. She didn't say much else for the moment that they stood there together. Finally, she moved closer to him and wrapped her arms around him tightly, holding onto him as if her life depended on it. She didn't want to let go. Not at all. She rested her head down on his shoulder and held him against her. She did not cry, though she wanted so badly to. Her throat burned and stung at her, almost forcing her to cry, but she stayed strong. For him and for her people. She turned her face on his shoulder slightly so that she could speak quietly into his ear. "I wish that we could just freeze time, even if it was just for a minute longer..." She knew that he had to go. She kissed his cheek before she slowly pulled away from him, her sapphire eyes stared into his own and she forced another smile. "I love you, Thais... Don't forget it. I'm right here..." She placed her hand over his heart. "Keep me with you..."

-::- He nodded at her words though didn't seem to have much else to say either. His head bowed as things were starting to hit him harder but he was getting through it just as he had the war of his own people that caused them to flee here. This was different though he knew.. He wasn't fighting just for a small city bit a kingdom, one he'd come to know and love as much as the woman standing before him. But there was still mystery luming in the air about them for there was still many thing she hadn't known that he hid away inside him for so long he'd almost forgotten.. and he knew with every beat of his head and second they were together there was still things he didn't know about her either. When he felt her arms wrap around him, he would return the embrace holding just as tight to her as she had him.. He just wanted to sweep her off her feet and run away somewhere they could be safe..But he wouldn't. He had duties and he knew she did as well. He hopped and prayed this wouldn't be the last hug and found himself remembering her scent...her touch.. the sound of her voice and feel of her heart beat so close to his. He sighed softly and nodded at her words when she pulled away.. -::- " I love you too.. More than anyone will ever know.. I carry you with me all the time. " -::- His hand rose to rest gently atop hers as he turned to walk away but paused in mid step to turn back. Gently pulling her back to him, back within that strong yet safe embrace. His lips would meet hers in a gentle but loving, deep kiss. He didn't want to go but knew he had to. Slowly pulling away he whispered.. -::- " I must go before my will to leave you fades. " -::- With that he turned abruptly and darted down the staircase. -::-

[Soleil]

Alexandria wished that she could somehow stop all of this before anyone had to lose their life. She wore such a heavy heart and she just wanted to break down right then and there, but she held herself back and nodded her head at him as he spoke to her. She grasped onto his hand as he placed it over hers and as he started to walk away, she held onto his hand, not wanting to let go. But her grip was loose, letting his fingers slip away from hers. But then Thais turned back and moved back to her, embracing her again and giving her that loving, deep kiss. Her hands placed on both sides of his face and she held him there in their kiss. Her own lips kissing him back, returning the deep, loving kiss. She didn't want it to end. She held him in her arms again until their kiss finally broke. Her eyes opened and she stared into his eyes as he whispered to her. She frowned and slowly nodded, understandably. "Take care, love." She watched him as he darted off down the staircase, and she watched him until he was gone out of her sight. Once he was, she leaned against the railing of the balcony that looked over the main entrance of the castle. She slid down until she sat upon the floor, and she leaned her back against the railings. Her fingers curled around one of the rungs and her other hand moved to cover over her face. Knees bent upward slightly and her elbow rested on her knee. She silently cried to herself. She felt so scared and worried that it made her want to throw up. Why did it have to be like this?


. S h e. had seen the little scene unfold between the Queen and Thais. Standing in the shadows of a corner, she waited until Thais ran off and Alexandria, so sadly, sat upon the floor.
There was very little emotion upon her features as she slowly stepped out of hiding and towards Alexandria. She was careful as she lowered herself down to her knees beside the queen and one of her hands moved to rest upon her shoulder. A small sigh escaped her lips. What could one say at a time like this? Her words were hesitating to let out at first, but when she finally spoke them, they came out very slowly.

"Your majesty. . . " She paused, light green eyes studying the broken woman for a moment before she continued. What she was about to say, was somewhat of a lie. She had no such visions to prove her words correct, and she had infact seen something about the necklace Alexandria had given Thais, into the hands of another man. She knew something would happen to him, but how could she tell her such things? She let out another sigh and shook her head. "You must keep up your strength. Your people need you. So I will tell you this." She paused, closing her eyes for a moment, almost ashamed that she was doing this. Hoping from the bottom of her heart that by her doing this, it would not bring further trouble...Much like it had when she attempted to save Brennus, but instead, led him to his death.

"Thais is a strong man. He will fight. And he will save a lot of people... There will be no better king to serve Avalendor... And it will be only him who will." She brought her finger to rest under the queen's chin and she slowly lifted her face up to force her to look at her. Nemesis forced a small smile. "Keep your head up. Now is not the time to appear weak and defeated." She gently moved one of her hands to allow the tips of her fingers to brush away the woman's .t e a r s .

Quietly, along the wall of the ship, a tall and lean figure rested against the railings. His large, rough hands, donning many years of hard labor and battle scars clasping the aged wooden railing firmly. "Land's where I belong..." This figure would mutter toward someone of a much shorter stature. Looking down to her at his side, he would give a faint smirk before looking out toward the sea once more, over the many layers of ships that sailed along-side them. "It has all come to this point...all the hardships and planning. There's no turning from it any longer...we can only move forward." His voice was strong and proud, much like his demeanor despite the lack of grooming. Dark shade of gray and black painted itself along his bronzed, sun beaten flesh. His large hand would stretch out along the railing, resting over his companion's much smaller hand. "Thank you..." The entirety of his words was spoken quietly, pensively, not wishing for any others to hear beside the ears he chose. The ears of his sister...to whom he felt he owed his very life to.

He might've appeared somewhat relaxed...perhaps a lot more than Aithne was, as she stood there by the railing, fingers tightly curling around for a secure grasp on it. Indeed she was tense, but it would not show on her features...To do so might bring up questions from the wrong people. Slowly those dark eyes shifted to her brother as he mentioned 'the plan', one that had begun to form when she last saw Naevah. It was an odd twist of fate, that the Irish woman would be joining her friend...mainly because of the blood that ran through her veins. As much as she had loved her mother, she clearly despised her father..every fiber of his being. Why? Well, that was a story for another time. Briefly she sent her gaze over the many ships of Saelis, watching rather calmly as Avalendor sunk two before looking over to Brahm once more, "For what?" she questioned him, a very small look of confusion washing over her face before it was gone just as quickly as it had come. Awaiting an answer to her question of his 'thank you', Aithne's eyes danced around the deck of the ship. If anyone noticed, she was the only female visibly seen among the soldiers. She was not looked upon as a soldier or a warrior, but the men of Saelis cared not that she joined the army...if she died, she died. Was her loss. Too bad that it would cause a bit of a problem for them. Faintly she grinned before it disappeared when she noticed one pair of eyes lingering upon her...either hungrily, or disgustingly she could not guess. All in all, it made her uneasy because she knew she was hardly welcome here.

"For..." Brahm was to deliver his answer when he followed Aithne's eyes along the ship. Her hand was released as he turned around looking over the others. "Problem?" He would ask out loud in a stern voice, most of the crew simply muttered no and went on their way...though one seemed to not even acknowledge Brahm's question and simply kept his eyes on Aithne. "Problem?" He would ask once more, stepping in front of Aithne to cut off the gentleman's view.

"Yea actually...yo' monstrosity is cutting off the best view in the sea. Now piss off." The soldier ordered. By his medals he was of a higher rank than Brahm. Brahm was a mere infantryman, nothing more, just a simple spare part. Though he liked it that way actually. "Shouldn't you be wiping th'decks or somethin brute?"

His jaw tensed along with the rest of his body, standing firmly before Aithne. "I serve the captain of this ship...until we touch land you're best ordering a whore if you wish for the proper response."

"That is some tongue you have lad..." The soldier would pace slowly toward them, looking up to the eyes of the tall Brahm as he neared. "In that case...s-t-a-n-d...aside."

Aithne was in no way a feeble woman. If she had to, she did rather well at taking care of herself. But she was the type to avoid a fight if at all possible, especially something foolish as what was currently going on. When Brahm stepped before her, she held herself back from grinning as she'd lean back against the railing. Sure, she was bothered by the man's lingering eyes and words, but she was aware of that protective nature of her brother. It was actually rather amusing to see that brute of a man be all caring and gentle towards her. She promised not to share that weakness of his, of course, since it might ruin his 'reputation' of sorts. Leaning off a little to the side, doe-eyes would shift between the two men as she felt the fight beginning to brew. Hmm, maybe she should try to stop it from happening..."I would back off with yer tail between yer legs, love..." she spoke to the man, nonchalantly. "Turn around and walk away like the ugly-arse dog ye are." As much as it didn't sound like it, it was a warning to the man, basically to save him from severe pain. She'd mutter a curse under her breath as she realized she just instigated the whole situation...Well, she couldn't help it.

"You ripe little bitch!" The soldier barked as he attempted to lunge passed Brahmn, an outstretched arm reaching to grab at Aithne to bring her close enough to smack around.

That death-like grip found the man's wrist, those once calm eyes flaring with intensity as he could feel the resistance. Nervously the soldier looked up to him, realizing the situation he put himself in. Aithne had endured enough, Brahm would swear away his life should he allow anything else to happen to her. This bastard would not get the chance to talk his way out and perhaps plot another chance when Brahmn wasn't around. The grip tightened as the soldier now swung wildly, landing two clean shots to the jaw of the imposing figure, causing him to channel the pain into the man's arm, tilting it downward to bring him to his knees. "Remember this..." He would mutter as he noticed the soldier's eyes shrink, as if he expected the worst. Brahm would not disappoint, raising his knee swiftly to hit against the man's elbow, causing it to fold as an elbow normally would...though in the opposite direction. The loud screeching wail of the man caused the crew to surface. Brahm's grip still ever so tight, not noticing the captain of the ship and the others with their hands readying their weapons, standing before him.

She wasn't happy with herself that she caused most of the problem...however, it pleased her because she couldn't stand men like him. That type was the only type of man she had known and been around, so it was safe to say that Aithne had never been in love and figured she never would be. Brahm was the only one who was different, but just as fierce as those of Saelis if the time called for it. Pulling her gaze from the crying bastard, she began to notice the captain and those loyal to him begin their approach. Like was mentioned before, Aithne and Brahm had a plan...and most of the men on the ship were a part of it. She took notice of them giving questioning looks, wondering if now would be a good time to spring into action and execute the plan. A small shake of her head to keep them back, she'd quickly rush beside her brother and pretend to struggle with loosening his grip on the man, "Brahm, stop! There's no need for this!" She really hated playing dumb, but she was afraid of this situation getting worse. Surely he'd be punished for hurting a higher officer and she'd have to think fast about their plan. They were not close enough to the shore yet...so they still had to wait. She nearly cursed again. This would make things difficult.

His glare broken by the sound of his sister's voice, sharply turning to look at her before he noticed the others before him, releasing his grip on the man's wrist while some of the crew rushed to peel him away from the floor.

The captain held Brahm's eyes, and his hand over the hilt of his sword as he approached the soldier, not in the least intimidated. "Mutiny...is an act punishable by death." He would mutter. "Mutiny is an act against the captain...for you my loyalty remains." How difficult it was for him to speak such words. It was like attempting to swallow acid, eating his insides.

"I merely responded to an attack on my person." The stone visage of the soldier hinted there was some truth, plus the soothing of his ego helped.

"Very well...point taken. Plus, one of your stature has his uses aboard my ship." Turning to look back at the first tenant he would give his orders. "Mr. Laganov...30 lashes to this dog. Make sure...all watch." The latter of his comment given as he looked to Aithne and turned away to step into his quarters. "Examples must be made on my ship!" He called out before disappearing into the captain's quarters.

Brahm looked to Laganov...seeing the look of conflict within him and those of the crew that knew what caused the delay. He would then turn to face Aithne before facing Laganov once more and nodding. Preparations would be made, as Brahmn was walked toward a heavy beam near the center of the ship, where such punishments occurred. His arms strapped around it as Laganov readied the multi-headed whip. Thirty lashes...he would try to make it as quick as possible, but there was no hiding the pain buried into the locked face of Brahm. He refused to look at Aithne during the punishment, and fell to his knees by the 25th lash, his eyes shutting by the 28th, and consciousness lost by the last stroke. Leaning against the beam, his bloodied back facing the crew.

Despite how she was feeling inside, Aithne was relatively calm on the outside...Catching the eyes of the captain as her own dark hues narrowed into vicious, feline slits. Thirty lashes? Was he daft? Brahm was strong, but this would weaken him far too much, if not kill him. Her breathing began to quicken, forcing herself to remain by the railing as her brother was lead and prepared for the severe beating. Aithne was strong in certain aspects...but this would be far too much for her to bear. Indeed she looked away as the whip was raised, but one of the soldiers stepped up beside her and grasped her chin roughly, "Oh no, sweetheart...You're to watch this." Aithne obviously struggled but knew she had to stop and give in, keep her strength for her brother wouldn't have any. Her eyes shifted to the shore in the distance for a second before the man forced her attention back on Brahm. They were close to the shore...but they still had some time.

She remained as unnerved as possible with each lash, but eventually her body visibly cringed towards the end while tears watered her eyes and blurred her vision. Her jaw clenched, wanting so badly to attack that man who kept her still, his taunting laughter echoing in her ear. She'd remember his face...

The beatings ended and she was harshly forced away, stomach slamming against the railing as her hands grasped it to keep her from falling over further. Some of the men began to move away from the area, and she'd slowly turn around to look upon Brahm. Sucking in a quick breath, Aithne started to rush her way over when someone grabbed her by the arm, stopping her in her tracks. She was so ready to retaliate when she noticed who it was- Garret, one of the many on this ship faithful to her and the plan. "Don't. They're bringing him below...we can't risk anymore..." he whispered to her. He was right, and after a moment of contemplating such, she'd nod to him and he gently let her go. Men gathered up her brother's beaten form and carried him below deck to the cells. Would he be well enough to help the attack when the time came?

Almost an hour passed since the incident, and Aithne remained silent as eyes remained fixated upon the shore of Avalendor. They were close...close enough, and so many things were filling her head causing her to struggle with being able to concentrate on just one. She had asked Garret to sneak down to Brahm and tend to him any chance he got, so hopefully some of her brother's strength was restored...even if it was just a little. For now, all she could do was wait.

Head shifted to the side, noticing as Garret stepped up from the lower deck and caught her gaze. He gave a nod and for a second, she stopped breathing. One more quick glance to the shore, she'd turn and briskly walk across the flooring towards the captain's quarters, bending at the knees in order to scoop up the whip that had been left there. "Do it," she spoke flatly as she passed Garret, and he knew what that meant. The order was sent around in whispers; those not loyal to Saelis began their approach upon those who were...And so the mutiny began.

Aithne did not knock, did not bother to open the door nicely...A booted foot lashed out, kicking in the door knob and caused the already flimsy thing to open and slam loudly against the inside wall, leaving her standing there in the doorway with the captain looking to her in anger and confusion. "What in bloody hell are you doing, woman?!" he spat out, rising from his desk and began to move around it to approach her.
She was quiet for the most part, watching him carefully before her arm moved from behind her and sent that whip snapping in the captain's direction. Two strands of that multi whip had made it completely around his neck, making him go into a frantic frenzy to get it off. She knew it would not remain tight, so she practically sprang at him like a cat, shoving his body into his desk as she'd wrap the whip around his throat more, securing it. Finally, she would answer his question, leaning forward and close to his ear, "I'm goin' ta murder every single one of ye bastards and rid this world of yer filth." Naturally, she couldn't do such a thing...but why not flaunt herself a little, hmm? She could see the betrayal in his eyes, and it only caused her to push his back further onto his desk as she'd plant her knee on his chest to keep him there...And then a harsh pull upwards with the whip, she slowly began choking him to death. Aithne was no murderer, was no vicious warrior...but she could be if the situation called for it. Perhaps in a way she enjoyed watching the captain suffer as he did, maybe for the fact he had practically sentenced Brahm to death, hurt him as badly as he did. Yet it was more so the reason that he was from Saelis. She despised the kingdom, despised every breathing person that lived there. And she hated herself for being a part of the cursed blood because of her father. At least joining Avalendor would ease her hating heart some. She trusted Naevah and trusted her own instincts as well, so this would be done without guilt.

Aithne struggled to pull the captain's body from his quarters, letting the corpse fall hard onto the deck where all the men could see. Some of her soldiers had disposed of those true to Saelis, while some still remained with knives and swords at their backs and throats. Originally she had wanted to persuade the rest to join the side of Avalendor...but she was so disgusted and, quite frankly, pissed off, she wasn't going to. She breathed in and out heavily, lingering her eyes upon them all. Some expected her to give some sort of speech, but only two words filtered from full lips, "...Kill them." Some of the men looked to her in question, but only for a brief moment before they could enjoy the killings with little hesitation.

This, of course, was done in as much silence and cover as possible. They were close to the other enemy ships, being technically one themselves, and anyone could look over at any time...so this plan was beginning to execute quickly. Once all those who were left on Avalendor's side, the soldiers took their places that had been instructed to them beforehand. "Make this blasted thing move faster!" she screamed out. She wasn't fond of sailing, but she felt her instruction was clear enough. "Garret, get my brother!"

The men did their best to quicken the speed of the ship, getting more wind in her sails...and it soon became clear that indeed this single ship was passing those beside her, speeding towards the front of the enemy. Meanwhile, Aithne prepared for the attack, lighting a fire and making sure bows and arrows were passed to each man able to use one. By now, those on the other ships were aware of something odd going on, turning their gazes upon this traitorous ship. They would do nothing about it, for they could not come to guess just what exactly was going on...Until the raining of flaming, deadly arrows began to fall upon their heads, catching everything and anything flammable on the ships.

"Keep it going! Hit every surrounding ship!" Everything had to be done quickly and as accurately as possible because there was no doubt that at least one of the ships was preparing to attack them. Good, that would work with the plan anyway. Aithne actually wished for it.

Those upon the shore might come to notice the beautiful display of fiery ships still continuing to sail towards them. But it began to become a cluster of chaos; ships about to crash into each other, soldiers jumping off into the water, willing to brave the harsh sea and the other ships that could easily run them over instead of burning to death. Of course, only six or so ships of the very large quantity were set on fire and clearly about to be disposed of...but it was better than nothing, yes? Aithne and her followers had been able to hit four, but two had unfortunately, yet fortunate for Avalendor, rammed into others catching their hot flames. Another few points for isle.

"The anchor! Do that thing with the anchor!" Was it mentioned earlier that Aithne wasn't much of a sailor? But her order was, surprisingly enough, understood, since all knew what was to come. She noticed Garret had gotten her brother from below deck and she ran her way over to him. "Go! Abandon ship!" she ordered the men. Oddly enough, she had always wanted to say that...

The anchor was lowered, crashing to the ocean ground as it would latch on to undersea debris and crazily begin turning the ship around at an uncomfortable speed and tilt. The men on board struggled to keep their footing, and some had managed to already jump off into the sea. Once it allowed them to be somewhat steady, the rest jumped over the railing; Aithne, supporting Brahm with Garret's help would follow suit, crashing into the water and struggled to make it to shore.

Those of Saelis looked on with surprise as the ship turned drastically around towards them. Steering any ships out of the way that were close to it would be impossible...and resulted in two of the flaming ships to ram into it head on. Wood cracked, fire engulfed, men screamed and fled if they could, and the entire chaotic mess literally blew up in smoke and flame.

Aithne and her 'crew' fought hard to make it to the shore; some weren't so lucky as the explosion pulled them under water or flying wooden shards killed them instantly. She'd only look behind her once, noticing the collisions had caused the waves to become choppier and higher. "Look out!" she yelled as loud as she could, and they all did their best to brace themselves as the water crashed down upon them, dragging them under, tossing them around...yet brought them closer to the shore where Aithne hoped the people of Avalendor wouldn't attack them.

Minutes had passed, and about half of the men made it onto the warm sand. Aithne was among them...but Garret and Brahm were not with her. She felt like hell, her body aching as she lied upon the shore, the waves washing up over her legs...and she could hardly push herself up onto her hands. The woman coughed viciously, spitting out the horrid sea water to catch her breath. Lips parted once more to speak, but no sound could be heard while she mouthed her brother's name.


Her eyes remained watchful of everything around them. Watchful of her own division as they stood ready to begin battle. As the ships came closer, the archers had formed all around the shore, firing their arrows lit with fire in attempts to hit the decks of the ships cause them to catch fire. Word spread fast between the divisions. Much better than she suspected them to. A horseman rushed over and shouted out. "Thais and Kaleb have sunk two ships! Two ships are down! Kaleb is missing."

Naevah's eyebrows furrowed. Avalendor was off to a bad start with its commanders. Brennus had fallen before the war had even come. And now Kaleb went missing. Come to think of it, she hadn't heard from Amber yet and overheard some of the archers in the division claim they could not find her as well. She bit her lower lip, almost in a nervous gesture, but she remained calm.
The horseman sounded as if the two sunken ships was such a huge victory, but she knew it was nothing at all. Two ships, was like making a tiny little dent in something much, much larger. She sighed and shook her head. She shifted on her horse, the horse continued to pace back and forth in front of her division's line.
It wasn't until Carrick shouted about the blacksmith showing up, that her eyes wandered back down to the formation to see the tall, dark haired woman joining the ranks. A small grin formed upon her lips and she offered a nod to Seraphim. She had seen the woman fight before, back in Saelis, and she had no doubts the woman would be able to fight and defend along with them. "Right then. We are honored to have our weapon maker fight alongside with us. Let's hope your strength is as good as your weapons." She grinned to her before she glanced back up and towards the ocean. There was a strange comotion out there, and she strained to hear and see it better.

All she had come to notice were the flames. Flames she imagined were from the archers of Avalendor. They were succeeding in sinking more ships, blazing them on fire very quickly. Hand was lifted to shield over her eyes as they squinted, struggling to get a better look. No luck.

They were standing blinded, waiting for orders. She hadn't seen Thais yet through all of this, and wondered what was going on out there. With a heavy sigh, she shook her head. Zane had been right when he stated he felt all of this had been unorganized. She was a commander, and she did not even know what was next or what orders to give her men.

Moments later, another man on horseback rushed over to Naevah and stopped, informing her of the ship amongst Saelis' that has seemed to attack against them. "Commander!" The man caught his breath. He had been going between all the commanders to inform them of any news. "It seems. . . That either we have another ally traveling towards the isle along with Saelis, or one ship has gone against Saelis and are deciding to join our side. They have set the enemy ships on fire and several have crashed into one another, sinking. This lowers the number we fight against. Avalendor's archers are still working on setting the others on fire as they come closer."
Naevah stared at the man as he explained the situation to her. Eyebrows furrowed with slight confusion. "Did the ship have different sails than those of Saelis?"
The man shook his head. "No. Same black sails..."
"Then it wasn't another ally..." She thought for a moment, a puzzled expression forming over her features. Saelis had various other kingdoms fighting for them. Many people, she was sure, didn't realize this. But instead of one single kingdom, Saelis was actually a council made up of twenty or so different kingdoms--which was why their army was so huge. The ship could have been one of their kingdoms going against them. A trick against them. The man watched Naevah patiently, feeling as if she would have something to say to him before he'd be able to rush off to inform the next person. But Naevah's mind was wandering, trying to think of the possiblities of this. She wasn't going to risk Avalendor's people for some trick Saelis was trying to pull on them. No one in their right minds, besides Avalendor, would go against Saelis. The other kingdoms were all scared dogs, walking around with their tails between their legs. She shook her head, then thought of the people of Saelis. All of them were too stupid to do anything like this. Except for. . . Well. There was one other she knew that shared such a hatred for the land, as she did, while she lived there. A slow grin formed on her lips. "Aithne..." The man looked at her puzzled, and Naevah shook her head, dismissing the man. "Thank you..." He nodded to her and rode off.
She could hear the commotion towards the shore as the rebel/traitor ship crashed. Naevah turned her attention back to her formation and shouted out loudly. "It would seem we have succeeded further before the ships ever reached land. But don't let your guards down. It is not the time to get too confident." She glanced around before she shouted out. "Carrick!" Naevah didn't have an assistant commander. Something she wished she could have changed before the war started up. But Carrick was the closest to an assistant, that she could think of. And once she had his attention she spoke out an order. "Stand guard of the division. There is a situation at the shores I must tend to. I'll return as soon as I can." She nudged her heels lightly into Silver's sides, urging him to move forward quickly, and he raced towards the shores. As she arrived there, the men were washing up on shore, along with what looked to be a woman. There were already many of Avalendor's guards surrounding them, prepared to fight them back should one of them try and attack them, though the current situation at the moment, appeared to have very little hostility.
Naevah pushed her way through the guards, unsheathing her sword until she came to the front, and she spoke out in force and with little emotion. "If you remain an enemy to Avalendor, surrender, or your lives will be taken right here and now." Her eyes lifted towards the shore, getting a good look at the burning, sinking and approaching enemy ships. Her eyes narrowed again before they returned to the washed up soldiers, waiting for one to speak up.

And one would speak up. Half opened eyes danced upon the surrounding guards before fixating upon the tall blonde, a woman, who appeared to have more authority at this current moment. Aithne knew exactly who she was, even if her vision was blurred. That demanding voice was not hard to remember.

Body almost shaking, Aithne pushed herself up onto her hands more before she was able to remain up on her knees. Clothing clung to her like a second skin, sand sticking to her in patches as her soaking wet hair plastered against her head and face, clearly giving her a tired and disheveled look. Brown eyes shifted their attention upon the infantry commander, holding back a grin from her lips, "One would think...that help and aide to this isle would be noticed when it was given..." Her voice was low and almost rude and sarcastic...but perhaps Naevah would come to realize it was a taunt, as the dark-haired female pulled strands of hair from her visage. Finally that grin began to form. "Hello, Naevah..."

It was nerve racking having to remain there and do nothing. She didn't have to prepare as much as the others because she had been in the middle of practice...so she was basically already prepared. But her nerves were shot a little, being that this was her first war and she wasn't sure about how she'd handle it. Was she afraid? Well, of course...those who didn't hold a little doubt in their mind weren't human at all and were lying to themselves. It was natural to be afraid, but she was also confident and willing, not allowing her small fear to completely consume her. She felt ready.

Attention averted to Zane as he tried to boost up the cavalry's confidence with his short speech. And then he slipped away, causing her brows to furrow for just a brief second...then her curiosity was gone. Those hazel eyes scanned the surroundings, wondering where her commander was and tried to spot her sister with her division. Gaze fell upon the infantry momentarily soon after, noticing Naevah and Marcus...and they weren't fighting. Well, that was a good sign.

A heavy sigh, all she could do was sit there atop that brown steed and wait. Sometimes she hated waiting. However, the fiery show of ships upon the water seemed to catch her attention instantly. What was going on? Had Avalendor already brought down nearly ten ships? It wasn't a huge dent in the large number of their enemy, but it was fairly good for starters in her eyes.

"How much longer..." Brahmn would ask the crewman who sat before the cell. Aware of the mutiny that was to occur. The tall soldier was weakened, though his grip could be heard grinding against the wooden bars.

"Not much longer..." The crewman would respond hearing the commotion above occurring almost at the same time he responded. He would run up to see what was happening. It had begun, quickly he hurried down to undo Brahm's bars. "It's happening now! Hurry we must take our leave!"

Garret would come down to see if Brahm was readying his leave, earning a curse from the large soldier signalling he was fine and telling him to leave as soon as possible.

Brahm stepped back as the bars were undone and slowly his feet slid along the ground, eventually being helped by the crewman up the stairs and onto the deck. His vision blurring and focusing randomly so he could not make out where Aithne was. "My sister...where is she?" He asked concerned, seeing the flames and shades of people.

"Safe!" The crewman responded helping Brahm to the side of the ship. Looking back he could see the impending explosion that was about to occur. "You're free m'lord..." Those would be his last words before pushing Brahmn from the side of the ship, a split second later the ship had erupted.

As he crashed down to the water he felt his body being lifted, only to crash back down thanks to the wave caused by the explosion. The sting of the sea was felt on his back, and served as the only means of keeping him conscious as he laid face-down on the ground.

Laying next to him he found Garret, his lifeless body staring up at the heavens. Apparently God claimed his honorable soul before he could suffer any more. A hand was placed on his chest before he looked up to see men surrounding Aithne. No...this couldn't be...they helped Avalendor, why were they set to capture them?

Weakened eyes turned narrow and predator-like as he pushed himself off the muddy ground. Stalking behind one of the guards he would quickly turn him and headbutt the man with a fierce blow to the mouth, claiming his two front teeth. Two other guards would approach Brahm and bring him down onto his stomach, holding his hands behind his back to restrain him. "We do the deed and you set our capture..." Brahm would mutter, being brought up to his knees to get a better look at Naevah. Looking to Aithne, his eyes quickly shifted to Naevah, not hearing their banter and believing they were set up...a curl of his throat signalled the vast amount of flem gathering before he unleashed a large mass of spit to the face of Naevah. This earned him being brought down to the floor once more to be restrained. "...off me y'bastards...cowards."

Clearly, it was up to him now, what would be done with Seraphim. He resisted the urge to grin at that.

"Understood." He replied to Naevah, then turned to the men. "All of ye stay in formation and wait for further orders."

If he needed to garner more information, the warrior would later find out which was a page or a scout. "An' ye may pray if ye wish," he said to the men. There was no reason he wanted all of them focusing on him. With purpose, he closed the distance between himself and Seraphim. He put a firm hand on her shoulder--rough, but not enough to bruise. Now that he was in command of the men, he didn't have a problem making the decision that his heart had already made. Carrick moved close to her. Among the mumbled prayers, he spoke into her ear.

"Grab your weapons or whatever ye need and report back to me. Woman, ye are not to leave my side once yer back, understood?" He looked down to the dog, who seemed prepared for the battle. Murphy had trouble restraining a bark it seemed. He attempted to appear so solid and stoic before all these men, but all he wanted to do was embrace Seraphim in his arms and comfort her--or perhaps accompany her to the barracks to give her a strong, passionate kiss. Presently, that was not an option. Clearly, there was love in his eyes as he spoke to her as he would any other soldier, but most already knew by now that the two were close.

"We'll have time to celebrate, a chuisle, mo anam cara." It was easy to confess it all to her in a language she didn't understand. "Graim thu." He said that last so decisively. But it was fact: he loved her.

The Irishman removed his hand from her shoulder, unconcerned with anyone else's reaction.

Phim's gaze would follow the Commander, though she did not wish to walk along in the fight, her duty was to make sure the weapons were supplied and in well enough condition.

But his hand fell heavy on her shoulder, that gaze would return to Carrick, wide hazels bright under the lace of dark lashes. Her peachy pink lips pursed a moment in thought at his words.

"I have not planned to fight," was her soft reply, "By and by, it would be better than standing aside." Her calloused hand would reach down, gently lifting the hammer that hung at her slender hip, her gaze lifting from his to cast about, a few swords still in it's wheel barrel. Once his arm lifted she'd fetch one for her other hand, though she'd not run home. Everything was taken care of there.

Atlas, to respond in kind, My Gelibter, seemed...more flemmy than his language. Not that she was ashamed, but as the yiddish was not so favorite a language and who was she to put the target on her chest.

Thus, she'd simply let her gaze lift once more to his, a hint of a smile would play on her lips before she'd nod. His hand lifted and so did hers, letting the hammer tap against her dress clad thigh, they'd pull the saffron scarf from her hair. A brilliant beacon if there ever was one, and she'd fold it to tuck away, leaving her inky lengths bare to the world.

How shocking.

Instead of placing the scarf in one of her pouches, she'd hold it out for Carrick to hide on his person. That hint of a smile returning before she'd whisper in her own language forgiveness for baring her head. Her voice barely audible.

Once the item was taken, her leather hair thongs were pulled from the small pouch that held a few hardy nails and she'd go to quick work at twisting her vast locks into two manageable braids.

Grey-blue eyes were attentive of the surroundings and what was unfolding before them. The guards stood by, cautious and watchful as the Saelis traitors washed up on shore and were being captured by the guards of the isle. She finally turned her attention to the drowned rat looking woman, immediately recognizing her. She fought back the faint grin that had begun to form on her lips, especially with that rude and sarcastic, taunting tone Aithne gave her. It wasn't until she spoke her name, that her stoic, serious expression slowly crept into a small grin. The men surrounding them looked completely confused and glanced to Naevah with question. There were probably so many different things that were running through their minds. Was Naevah turning against them? Was this all a huge plot? No one really knew what to think. "Aithne..." Her sword was returned to its sheath and her grin grew a bit more. "It's about damn time you showed up! Better late than never, aye?... Though I guess one might argue you are just in time..." She moved towards her, her fingers curling around the woman's arms to assist her off the ground completely. Though as she did so, she was shoved away and she felt the large mass of spit sent right to her face. Lips slowly parted and her eyes shifted towards the man that had become so quickly restrained by the guards. Her hand rose and she used the sleeve of her shirt to brush away the disgusting spit. Well that was uncalled for. Avalendor's guards were taking precautions. This was a bloody war. They weren't going to risk not being prepared and defensive, just because a group of people assisted them. It was hard to tell truth from lies in these kinds of moments. Her eyes narrowed down at the man that struggled against the Avalendor soldiers. She spoke simply, with very little emotion. "Let him go." The men looked up to Naevah, slight confusion still in their eyes but they obeyed her, letting go of Brahm. Once she got a good look at him, her smile was slow to return and she let out a sarcastic laugh. "Look at this. A whole bloody reunion!" Her arms slowly folded over her chest and she stared at Brahm for a long moment. "I'd ask you what the hell that was for... But we don't exactly have much time for it." She glanced back to Aithne. "What do you know? Do you know at all of any of their plans? If I could guess, I'd say there are a lot more ships than that..." She nodded her head, motioning to the ships that were still sailing dangerously close towards the shore, and the ones that were burning and sinking into the ocean, its men starting to spill over board and swim to the shore. She really needed to get back to her division.

A single wave of dizziness made her body sway slightly as Naevah helped her up; her own hands coming to grasp the woman's arms to keep steady until the dizzy spell finally passed. The grin remained however, relieved the warrioress realized who she was...And then Brahm jumped to the punch and Aithne cringed as the wad of spit hit Naevah's face. Well that surely wasn't sanitary...She was prepared to interfere with any fight or argument that might happened after that, but luckily Naevah came to realize it was a misunderstanding...or maybe just didn't do anything because it was Brahm. Aithne was sure Naevah couldn't forget her brother. He tended to have an impact on people...sometimes most literally. Her smile faltered a little before her face relaxed and sent her tired gaze to her friend. "Well, yer correct in tha' assumption...There's plenty more, and they plan to attack ye in waves..." By the dreaded expression that sudden befell her face, Naevah and the other guards would come realize how grave this news really was.

As the guards released him and he would rise to his feet...there was a quiet humiliation he felt inside, though he would not give the satisfaction of showing it. He rationalized his actions though, in his own somewhat simple mind and suddenly didn't feel as bad. Brahm would remain silent, feeling relieved enough that Aithne was fine, as far as he could see. He would make his way to her side, looking to Naevah as he dusted off his arms. "We delayed them fer time...but m'sister's right...they don't intend on leavin much of yer land. They smell th'wounded and they claim it before they could recover. Not certain you'll be findin victory...but may as well take as many as ye can of them bastards and have a little fun of it."

She saw the expression upon Aithne's face, but Naevah showed no emotion to it. She already knew it could be and was bad. She had fought on Saelis' side for what she considered to be too long. She knew them well enough to make assumptions. A small nod was given to Aithne and her bit of information given. Then as Brahmn spoke up, her eyes would land to gaze upon his face, slight impatience showing on her features. She was annoyed with him already just by what he had done. But she didn't say anything on the matter. It wasn't really the time and place for that. But at his last words, she rolled her eyes slightly and began walking away, motioning for the two of them to walk along with her. "You've obviously been fighting for those brainless bastards too long to think their little strength in numbers bit will win them this victory. Yet this is the first time you step foot on Avalendor and you are so quick to judge that we cannot defend ourselves against these spineless idiots?" Naevah used 'we' in that sentence as if she were part of Avalendor now. As if it were her home and always had been. And for the most part, that was kind of how she felt. She found acceptance and like she actually served a purpose now. "If this land didn't stand a chance, it would have been burned and lain in ruin long before now." She stopped and turned to face the both of them. She gave a serious expression before the faintest grin crept along her lips. "But... It would be quite fun tearing these bastards down... Well done with the ships." She motioned with a nod of her head, chin pointing towards the burning and sinking ships. Her eyes narrowed faintly before she gave them each a questioning glance. "So...You'll join us then?" She took a few steps backwards, watchful of them before she turned and went to where her horse awaited her.

No the siblings didn't know this land, nor have they heard much about it except from the mouths of Saelis, and of course half of it wasn't true as Aithne could imagine. A sigh as Naevah went off in response to Brahm's words, she remained silent since she knew he didn't mean it in such a way, but it could easily be taken rudely. Ah well. Slowly she would begin to follow Naevah, weary eyes wandering about the beach, catching sight of the gathering army in the distance. "Yea...the ships...remind me to never do that again..." she muttered lightly, a hand moving to her forehead as if trying to steady herself again. She was better now though. With Naevah's next question, Aithne looked to her as if she were an idiot, "Of course. Ye dun think we'd jump from a burnin' ship just ta have a swim, do ye?" Despite that joking look, her words weren't mean to go with it; they were the complete opposite. Watching Naevah continue on, she spied that white horse of hers and looked at it questioningly, "Silver...?" she took a few more steps before finally coming to a stop. "How'd you manage to get that beast all the way from Saelis?"

"If they were brainless you wouldn't be needin us then...yet here we are. Think 'bout that love." He would leave Naevah with her own assumptions, and allow whatever sense of confidence she had remain with her. She'll certainly need it for what was coming. "Jumped did ye? Yer mess caused me more bruisin in the water than I received on the bloody ship..." He appeared annoyed at Aithne before his hand came to the side of her head and he brought her in to kiss her forehead. "That's m'girl...no doubt in m'mind we share the same blood." Brahm would mutter jokingly before he looked at Naevah's steed. "Bloody 'ell..."

Naevah shook her head and let out a quiet laugh at Aithne's words. She stopped as she came to her horse, and turned to face the siblings again. Eyebrow rose at Brahm and she shook her head. "You are how many people? With or without you, I'm sure Avalendor would manage. We don't need you. . . It'd just be nice to have a few more good fighters." She laughed and shook her head at him before turning to Aithne at her question. A slow grin formed on her lips as she patted her hand against Silver's back several times. "He's my horse. Wasn't about to leave him behind in Saelis. I managed to hoist him on board when we escaped with the queen." She paused, remembering how she had suddenly just left that day without going back for Aithne and telling her that she was abandoning and turning against Saelis. She didn't have the time. The queen was about to be executed and there she was, and there the Avalendor rescue group was, and she had to act. There was no time to run back and search for her to get her to come along with her. So an apologetic expression was given to Aithne then and she sighed. "I need to head back to my lines. The two of you can either stick around and fight with me... Or go off and join one of the other divisions. But the war is coming now... And there isn't much time." She pointed towards the shores, pointing out that there were actual men crawling out of the waters and onto the shores, and had already begun to fight against the soldiers that were defending. She turned to Silver, placing both her hands on the sides of his nose and she spoke quietly to him, telling him to return to the stables where it was safe. The horse obeyed and quickly ran off. Naevah didn't fight on horseback and she'd walk or run with Aithne and Brahm to return to her division lines, unless the siblings decided to waste their time in searching for the divisions they wished to fight in. At this point in time, with battle approaching, it didn't really matter. But she didn't wait for their answer, and she began walking with quickened pace towards the lines of the infantry.

[Soleil]

Everything about Carrick at this moment was intense. Battle was about to begin, and the bloodlust that surged through him was inevitably genetic. He trusted her, and knew that she would follow his orders concerning battle, just as he would follow her commands were he helping out in the smithy. He smiled upon her kindly as he accepted the scarf--something she always wore.

Carrick was now completely unashamed to display his affection for the woman in front of the men. She had given to him a favour, and perhaps a promise, and no other had ever done that. Resisting the urge to hold the fabric against his face, he quickly tucked it in the inner pocket of his shirt, over his heart. He let his hand rest there for a moment, feeling the everpresent pride of defending one's homeland, complemented by the warmth of the gift.

Today, any glory he won would be for Avalendor and Ulster, and he had love on his side. A final smile given, he put his hand to her back a moment as she braided her hair. He would not have told her to come into battle if he did not think her capable; most did not use a hammer as a weapon or as part of their trade, and he had seen it come in handy previously and knew that it could again. Furthermore, she would be by his side, with the four legged friend to protect her.

Closing his eyes, the Catholic murmured his own prayer. The words were in Irish Gaelic, then completed in Latin. Nothing could have sounded holier than the Irish language mixed with the support of his religion, which at this time in Eire and many times to come, would be an advocate of Irish freedom.

With a priest for a brother, the man was forced to be well-read as he grew, though he had obviously spent more time with a sword than a holy book. Hands entirely to himself, now, he surveyed the men and awaited orders. He was proud of Seraphim--she served the same purpose here as his sister did in Ulster. In battle she was an evident symbol of her land, complete with hammer, and unaccepting of defeat. This woman had a lazy grace and skill, and to Carrick's knowledge, was loved by all. It was easy enough to stand there and admire her when several other men in the company did the same. She would remind them all of Avalendor's spirit, and for this reason and this reason alone, he allowed them to observe her beauty.

Seraphim made quick work of those haphazard strands, letting the long braids lay over her shoulders. Absently those hands would brush over the laces that tied her overdress tightly to her. At last resting before her, fingers lacing together as she looked about. She was tall and strong like their commander, though she hailed from the second Avalendor, most of these people were unfamiliar faces. None talked to her much, just the "horse shoe" talk and off again.

But war brought more talk, "Swords, please," and all that. She wasn't by any means not known, but she did not make too much of an effort to learn anything else about strangers. She was too busy making a life for herself, making her trade her life. But that was slowly slipping from her fingers, not that she would not continue what she aimed for, but now side paths came into view.

Her gaze left the soldiers and landed on Carrick, hazels wide, face relaxed into that pleasant blankness. She did not know what battle would entail, only that her father would not be pleased, although, he would not be surprised.

Phim was quietly watching him, fingers folding and unfolding before her, growing ... expectant? Nervous? Wanting? Freckled sprinkled cheeks would flush a bit as ehr gaze and thoughts dropped from Carrick to her thin soled leather shoes.

He turned to leave but pause to glance out over the courtyard a moment. Nudged by the stallion he turned to give a faint grin then mounted and grasp the reins. Taking a deep breath he spoke out to nobody in particular but one person even though he knew they wouldn't hear him.- " I will survive this sister. I'll keep my promise this time, I have too. " - He then raised his hand looking to the cloth wrapped around his wrist. Slowly fingers coiled around the knot to pull it free, what was this? He pocked the cloth and turned to start of when he noticed Thais coming down the stairs not long after Nemesis left to go up them. Brows furrowed in wonder, why was the commander here and not with the army? He moved to intervene with the horse, using it to block the mans path.- " Why are you here and not the barracks with the army?!? " - Eyes narrowed upon the man he never liked merely put up with.

-::- He moved down the staircase scaling steps skipping some up to four steps causing him to jump but never faltered in his step shockingly but not so shocking with what he was before his rise in rank. He barely stopped when he noticed Orin mainly no in the mood for him war was bagging on their door, another fight was the least thing he needed right now. He stopped with a growl of frustration at the large horse in front of him and looked up to the rider when he was questioned. Brows rose as those steal blues rested on the man. -::- " I should be asking you that. Get out of my way and into formation. And that's a direct order private. " -::- He would move to walk around the horse in a bit of a rush he needed to get back to the shores to make sure the navy knew what they were doing and send word for Zane. -::-

Brows furrowed at the order, never good at listening he jumped off the horse when Thais walked around it and would grab the man by the shoulder so he wouldn't walk away from him. - " Thais! " - He pause for a moment looking to the mans neck when he caught a glimpse of something sparkling in the faint light. - " That' the family symbol.. wha.. No that's not important, where are they, I mean how close.. ? " - He was obviously not here to fight the man. Orin was a changed man and it showed. That dark gaze lifting from the necklace to eye level of Thais.

-::- He stopped when he felt the tug of his shoulder and whirled around. Brushing the hand away when Orin noticed the necklace he said nothing only raised a hand to tuck it back beneath his shirt. -::- " We all have promises it's not time to worry about them but duty. We both have a duty to the queen and to these lands. " -::- The later comment caused him to overlook Orin for a moment before answering. -::- " Not far off shore. The navy took out two ships before retreating and rumors are going around about more but I'm not sure. Now if you will I have duties to carry out and you need to get into formation. " -::- He turned and for the third attempt would try to leave the courtyard and head back towards the shores. Pausing to grab one of the guards. -::- " Send word to Naveah to pass along to Ancaladar and his men to move into formation. Go now! " -::- The guard didn't hesitate before mounting the nearest horse and take of towards the military building and grounds. -::-

He would listen carefully disregarding the comment about promises and duty shaking his head till he heard about the two ships. Delighted the navy was taking in their part. He rolled his eyes at the comment made to the guard as he moved to follow the man finding that more easier than trying to stop him in order to talk to him for even the briefest moment. He understood the man was busy but he wanted to know. - " I could have told him myself he is my commander.. " - Gods that felt weird to say, even to look up to Thais when it came to orders. What was happening to him? He shook his for now was not the time to space out in thought and he blinked realizing Thais had gotten a few feet ahead he'd jog to catch up to him. - " I'm going with you. " -d-

-::- He had continued on breaking into a dead run ignoring his words about Ancaladar knowing the man was his commander he didn't trust Orin to deliver a stone let alone a message or order. He shook his head and stopped dead in his tracks to turn when he heard those fetal words. -::- " No you will go get into formation, you need to be with your division. You sister doesn't want anything happening to you during this war you stand a better chance with your division on horseback Orin. Now go " -::- He would turn to find the mustang once more and mount the large wild horse. He grasp the reins and they both took off as if their very lives depended on getting their in a hurry. -::-

He growled when the man barked another order and shook his head defiantly. Perhaps he was risking a bit much defying the military commander himself but he had a point in it all. He turned and would raise two fingers to his lips before letting out a high pitched whistle. The black stallion perked and turned to gallop towards him. He grabbed a hold of the saddle while at the same time jumping up to aid himself in mounting while the horse kept galloping after Thais and the mustang. He finally sat upon the saddle and drove the horse harder to catch up and ride along side the ex-ranger now commander of the military. - " You can order me all you want Thais I know she loves you and how can she marry you if your dead? I've got your back and your not getting rid of me till the end of this war. I'm not having her lose another one she loves. Not because of war and hatred. " -d-

-::- Having thought he finally got rid of the man that was slowing becoming annoying and a thorn in his side till he heard the sound of hooves catching up. He sighed in frustration to himself but knew by now it was useless to fight man, he was as stubborn as himself. Personally he didn't mind as long as Orin stayed well enough out of his way and didn't start anything. He remained silent the rest of the way. Driving the mustang on as fast as it'd go without the horse getting hurt or harming the horse Orin rode. -::-

The men and women of the cavalry were already in formation, even having not gotten the order from Thais. He'd pun ish those of his command later that were not there, but for this moment he sat there at their head. His back to his men as he watched the fires raging so distant, and yet too close for his comfort. Ancaladar would glance over his left shoulder, those steel gray eyes roaming over rank after rank of those mounted men and women. People whom he'd sworn to protect ... people he could have done more for.

He'd shake the thought from his head, and slowly he would slip those black leather gloves on, with their heavy metal gauntlets. "Cavalry ... follow suit. Remember, we don't ride them down till they land, and then we're the hammer ... not the anvil. Ride in fast, hit them and withdraw ... make them chase us into the wall of our infantry ... then circle round and hit them again ..." He figured it was the best plan they had at this time. No one had ever given him solid instructions, except to work together with the infantry. He'd growl softly, glancing towards the lines of infantry that were a short ways off.

He didn't know if their commander was there amongst them, but he figured they'd be ready when the Saelis soldiers chased him and his men right into them. He just hoped that it would work, so he'd turn and he'd speak quickly and quietly to one of the messengers that had been selected to run orders. The man immediately raced off to give the infantry commander, or the highest ranking officer of the infantry the general plan that Ancaladar had worked up.

So it was that the cavalry moved towards the shore at a slow walk, no lights burning with them, they were ghosts in the darkness of the night. So whenever the men of Saelis landed, they would have no idea save the slight clink of heavy armor, and the breathing of those men and women ... never mind their horses.

The silver armor showed flashes of orange and red as the boats in the distance burned up. They were the only beacons of light in the still of the night that surrounded them. How many ships were there and how many would be left? This was the universal thought that fluttered between calvary members as they silently watched the flashes of light in the distance. Minutes passed as they watched and waited for orders. There were cries that reached their ears in the middle of the darkness as men jumped into the water in rescue of their burning flesh. Sounds of pure agony were followed by a stiff silence as the boats a flame slowly sank into the depths of the water. Zane noticed his commander start to shout out orders. It was like the men sighed a sigh of relief, now having something to do. Horses trotted forward in formation as they closed the distance of the beach and the new emerging survivors. As they made their way to the shore, the air got noticeably thicker. It was harder to see through the curtain of smoke that now covered them, blacking out the stars. The smoke had reached them and a particular stink came with it. Those green eyes closed for a moment as Zane's face cringed from it all. Eyes adjusted and soon Zane's lance came crashing into the first wave that had formed and lurched towards them. Men were pushed back to the ground as if they hadn't already been through enough. Wind was knocked out of them as their knees buckled under the powerful leveling arm of the calvary. They came down hard and fast as described, sending the foot soldiers that had survived the boat fires to the ground. They backed around to allow the infantry in as described. All they had to do was kill what was injured now. Things wouldn't be as easy once the first real wave of attacks came. The enemy would be more prepared and they would be massed together with some semblance of plan. But for now it was the injured that had swam to shore and were attempting to fight back. Zane would have to make up for the numbers of kills he was missing out on here. Oh, sure his lance had done some major damage and even brought a few lives to an end; but it was nothing compared to the numbers Naevah would get in cleaning up after them. But there was still plenty of time.

Matter of fact, there were boats being sent out with the masses of the enemy army. They floated in quietly, hiding under the smoke that was left form the wrecked ships. They would land in time for the second wave of the calvary. A round of arrows would be released towards our heroes who would have to pause in defense as their shields were raised to save off the small heads of the arrows. This rain would give the enemy a chance to get out of their boats and into formation.

Brahm easily detested the woman, his weary eyes looked her over. Nice to know they were needed, he might've taken his chances on his own in terms of the rebellion. When this war was over he'd have to teach her a lesson in how she addressed those who took it upon themselves to help her cause. Looking to Aithne as Naevah spoke of following her or choosing another division he would mutter. "Take yer chances with that beast...i prefer ones I could control. Come if y'like..." He would remark as he began to walk toward the direction of the cavalry. Looking over his shoulder he'd simply smirk. "...if not, a bettin man would win a pretty penny to say i'd find ya." A wink would be given to his sister before turning away, making for the cavalry division. Amazing how calm and at peace he appeared even in times like this.

It was where he felt most at home, when at war. Worries, Fears, Visions we may feel a pang of guilt over...all wiped away with the first sounds of clashing steel together. The melodies of such occasions could sway him to sleep. It sure would beat the hell out of hearing that harpie of a woman whaling about as if she were the epitamy of warfare.

As he arrived the section where the cavalry was stationed, it was easy to see how Brahm stood out. A tall, lean figure, of no real need of a horse really. Yet he appeared relaxed as if he were arriving home. He would stop at a certain steed, his hand gently patting the proud beast's cheek as he leaned and muttered. "Ah yer a fine beast...fast and true. Had one like you back home actually...poor bastard was a bit of a pissah, 'ad to put him down. Broke three bones in m'hand with that blow. Don't be thinkin yer master will be havin that problem with y'now." He would continue in a soft though deep voice as his hand lightly patted the steed's cheek. Looking up to see who the rider was he wasn't too surprised to see a woman sitting atop it, if one knew his relations they would understand why.

"Fine animal..." He would claim with a grin. "...yer horse is remarkable as well." This earned a few light chuckles from the riders around Terra. Brahm did not intend to embarrass her, just his way of complimenting the woman, and to make her appreciate the horse she possessed. In his own, simplified mind he somewhat hit on her, not thinking it to be a big deal. Looking around at the others he would speak up. "Alright lads, who here do I need to piss on to find m'boss 'ey?"

Aoife's chores were finally finished, the trek come the village behind the solider proved uneventful. Now that the sheep were pinned up in her cottage, fed, watered, lazy aristocratic beasts would just quietly sleep and bleat. She would drag her loom towards the cliffs her home settled on. She was not far from the villager, per say, but she was not close. She had a bird's eye view over the ships, over the shore, over the horses and men.

The loom itself was not very large, though self standing. She had to be able to move it about, thus the cousins in her home village had made her one for her petite size when she had "come of age." Unfortunately for them, she had not time to pick a lad, raiders came like they did every season and she was left without a head of house. She went back to the cottage, deftly avoiding a lamb and coming back balancing her stool, a rough cup and plate with water and some food for her to nosh on as the battle went on.

Of course she wasn't totally unprepared if someone should happen onto her. A very large knife was in the hidden pocket of the emerald green over skirt, hidden among the folds of the yellows and white under coats. She was a brilliant mash up of colors, stockings included, but she wore a plain men's top under a sapphire shawl of thick wool. It was summer, so this was shucked soon as she was on that squat school.

Large clear water blues would look again at the war below, pink lips pursed a moment and cup and plate were set on the grass. Lithe fingers would lift to the soft gold curls to twist up with yarn. Sing-song voice lifting to no one, since she was alone, "Back to work then?"

And once hair was up, hands were picking up where she left off on a ruby red area of the loom.

The first wave of the cavalry would have been an amazingly simple movement, a slanting line of men racing through what were already tired and injured soldiers of Saelis. Ancaladar had ridden at the head of them, the visor of that helmet dropped low over his facade, making him look exactly the same as any other lancer, save for the green half cape that he wore. It billowed slightly behind him as that black horse ripped through the sand of the beach, and that black walnut lance, with it's three iron rings tore open man after man ... most of which were too busy trying to stand, to fight.

No, this was not combat. Ancaladar and his mounted cavalry would rip through the scragglers from those ships rather pathetically, circling back around to stand and wait at a slight distance from the infantry, letting them do their jobs. He was a soldier, not a butcher ... but in this instance he felt there was no different. He'd give the call when the sounds of arrows hit the air, and all of those men and women would raise their shields towards the dark sky, blocking those arrows that were thankfully lit with the blazing fire. They were lucky, the arrows felled two horses, and only one rider. Sending a quick movement of the ranks to close their spaces.

His gray eyes shone from beneath that helmet, and when there was a commotion amongst his ranks, he would quietly turn his head, gray eyes glancing back towards Terra and the un-mounted gentleman. He'd glance towards the battle lines, his hand running along the handle of that long handled war-hammer, thumb caressing the steel spike. With slow, well measured movements, Ancaladar would dismount from atop that beautiful beast. Twisting as he lowered himself downwards, and stopping to glance back through the ranks towards the man. His gloved and gauntlet covered hands would rise, removing his helmet slowly.

There was no story book spill of hair, all that shoulder length brown hair was tied back into a club at the base of his skull. He'd stand there quietly, watching the man, then after a few moments pause his voice would rise up. "That would be me ... and there will be no pissing here ... if you expect to ride with us, you'll show ample respect to every mount and rider here ... now, if you can tone down the vulgarity ... there are a few horses near the back, and some lances as well ... " He'd let those gray eyes once over the man, his own muscular frame standing stone still in that steel armor.

T h e armies of Avalendor were not alone in this fight. The armies of Tresteria were floating just off shore when the fires of the two sinking ships reached their site. So it had begun.. Armored gloves grasped the rail of the commanding ship when he heard the buzzle of rumors start to float around between the men.. " Be ready! " He barked as he turned.

Heavy boots thudded against the boards of the ship as he moved up above the Captain' quarters to take hold of the wheel himself. His free hand shot out in the direction the starboard side. " Lets move, we are not here to just watch them have all the fun. . ! " Without a second glance or time to watch where they were going the crew scattered. Some moving bellow to take hold of the large ors as other scurried across the deck to pull up the anchors. The ship lurched to life as the signal was sent towards the others. The brief flicker of light too soft for the distant armies to see or even notice and the armies of Tresteria began to sail towards the on coming fleets.

The site of the black ships closing the hole to Avalendor' shores could either be a relief to Avalendor' armies or worry, the way Scyth saw it he was on neither side. The king had sent him and his armies to fight Sealis technically they didn't have to but why would the king send a rouge commander was beyond him. For now he would satisfy his lust for blood and war with the approaching ships of Sealis. " Steady men.. " His right hand rose as he abandoned the wheel to a crew member and moved back down to the deck, where his men were waiting just as eagerly to feel blood upon their hands as he.

He'd let his hands fall and the ships seemed to be set a blaze to the untrained eye. Giving Sealis and Avalendor the illusion of a fire blockade. In truth bows were taken up and wrapped arrow heads drenched in alcohol to be set aflame with the sparks of rocks. Bows tilted towards the sky as the archers took aim. Multiple torches that lined each ship were lit and held a certain way to make both armies think that the ships that sailed to aid Avalendor had gone up in flames.

A sinister grin formed to carve the brute' features as he waited. Steady.. Waiting would seem like ages but the men held frozen like statues in the heat of the flames flickering all around them. It was like sailing in the sun coated with multiple layers of armor there was so much heat packed on the decks of each ship. He waited till Sealis sailed close enough for his voice to shout above the waves. " FIRE . ! . ! " The arrows were released to be sent skyward and by the will of the gods would reach towards Sealis.

The torches were lifted and by a leap of fate they're clever cover was blow as the torches were swung by the rope that held them. " Steady, wait.. " Just when Sealis thought they were finished, they were far from it.. A soldier approached him from the side, growing with anticipation. " Commander?!? " As soon as Sealis' ships came close enough to see it was not a blockade but a trick and foul trap it was too late for them to take up arms and defend their ships. " Now. ! .! " The second assault of flames would be thrown by skilled men strong enough to throw them the distance it required to catch the approaching ships on fire where the arrows had not. Tresteria wasn't at all done, no this was just the beginning of a terrible storm brewing with the dark Commander's m i n d.


How many times had she paced the hallway within the infirmary since the bells had tolled to alert them to the enemies approach. Pausing in the open doorway she let her gaze fall upon the path that led to the gardens and beyond that the port and military barracks. Easing from the doorway she moved slowly across the stone laid path. A soft smile creasing her tired features at the sight of a group of young novices gathered that had insisted on staying to help with the injured as they arrived. Everyone else had been escorted safely to the castle when the bells had rung in the early morning hours.

Stopping she smiled at them as she listened to them talk amongst themselves Her brow creasing as she heared them speak about strangers that had washed ashore after an explosion on the water. Her gaze drifted towards the path that led to the beach as she contemplated on going to see if she was needed in any way. Though her thoughts were on the strangers that had washed ashore and the possibility that they were the enemy she wasnt completely ignorant of the constant chatter. It was then that she heard the word of a death that had occured. It snapped her out of her daydream as she grabbed the young novice by the arm and spun her around.

Her eyes meeting hers and the look on the girls face one that obviously stated she had scared the girl as she tried to find her voice. "Who... who is it that has died?"

The young novice quickly answered her as she stepped back from the grasp of the woman under whom she was training her features pale at her outburst... "The Captain of the Navy.. Kaleb, they say he drowned during the attempt to hinder the enemies approach."

Turning from the girl she looked toward the port the realization of the war sinking in. Death had settled nicely on thier doorstep already claiming one of thier own. Moving from the small group she found herself walking slowly on the path the led from the garder to the military barracks.. she had to see him to make sure he was alright, and to tell him that she truely did love him. Her heart beat wildly in her chest as her feet carried her across the stony path oblivious of those around her as she moved through the village her eyes only seeking one face in the sea of many.

Gaze and attention was given to her commander; deep, slow breaths taken to make sure her nerves remained calm as she was about to slip that helmet upon her head...when some strange man approached her. Looking down for just a second as he rambled on to Altair, she watched as the first line of the cavalry made their way towards the shore. However, when the idiot realized there was a rider upon the horse and his comment was made, hazel eyes glared down at him. If he made her miss her chance to get into this...battle, though one couldn't really call it that right now, she'd be utterly pissed. And he would most definitely understand her anger.

Her look of disgust was evident, and the light laughter around her only deepened her annoyance. Foot removed from the stirrup, she planted the bottom of that booted foot against his chest to push him away from her. "Away with you, pig. There's no good use of you, but I'm sure you could slink away and amuse yourself, yes?" Eyes narrowed after that snippy comment before Ancaladar gained her attention once more and attempted to put the Irishman in his place. She smirked lightly to herself and gave a light nod of thanks to him before slipping that helmet upon her head, then moved her horse forward to prepare for the next line of attack when it was called for.

"Figure of speech..." He would remark in a calm tone and a faint smirk to the commander that approached him. "...war is grim enough, the boys need a little fun before they're to rest their lives on the line. Nothing I say should be taken literally unless I make it clear." Brahm would lift his arms to his side in a shrug and lower them back down. Looking back to where Silverbane guided him for the horse, Brahm would simply though he'd wince at the sound of a lance. "Not a fan of them things y'know. I'm fine with m'blade here y'know what I mean? Y'have my grattitude fer the chance though. Much oblidged to cut 'em bastards down fer ya." A light bow of his head was given to Silverbane before turning to fetch himself a horse. "No hard feelins love...you'll be thinkin different of me when this here battle is done." A smirk as he passed and a pat of Altair's side and Brahm would head on back to fetch himself a horse.

It wasn't the most glorious of beasts but it was strong enough to do the job. Several scars showed the steed had seen its fair share, it had a look Brahm was proud to claim his own. "Oh you'll do fan lad..." He muttered with a pat of its neck as he climbed on and trotted over next to Terra. He would look over some who held their lances and gave a puzzled look. "How they expectin to do much with 'em things..." He muttered quietly to himself, though likely loud enough for Terra to hear. At the moment Brahm unsheethed his hefty, sturdy, iron broad sword. The grip alone causing the muscles in his arm to tighten and flex. "There's m'girl...miss me did ya?" He mutterred to the sword, pressing a kiss against the flat of the blade before looking out toward the shores.

Dark hues wandered around, studying each division. She didn't know which one she'd prefer really. She was very good with a bow, but she also fancied a sword every now and then, but more so those long, twin knives she currently had sheathed at her lower back. The sword was for Brahm who seemed to enjoy swinging that piece of steel around any chance he got. He surely was a brute.

And then she'd notice her brother near the cavalry, seeming to speak to one of the female riders. Uh oh, he wasn't just speaking, but flirting...badly. He didn't quite know how to compliment a woman, and by the expression and reaction of the rider, Aithne's assumption was correct. A roll of those brown eyes into whites, she'd shake her head as she'd turn back to Naevah. "I'll stick around 'ere, if tha's alright. I don't think it will much matter whether I use a blade or bow when the real battle ensues." Eventually, like mostly all battles, it would just become a cluster of divisions. You can't be organized all the time.

The ships were going down. One by one. . . Two by two. Their first plan went out the window. Avalendor had been prepared, or so it seemed, and it looked as if they would actually put up a fight. The commander grumbled. "Bloody 'ell... Looks loik we'll be 'avin' a 'arder time in ther' wouldn't ye say?" He slapped the back of his captain and shoved him. "Fall back! Bloody sail back t' the other ships before they get us down too. There's nothin' we can do 'bout them now, mate." He nodded his head to the burning ships that were sinking.
He was pissed. A heavy fist slammed down onto the wooden rail and he yelled out loudly. "I said fall back!!! Why th' hell haven't we turned around yet? Do it!"
The captain scrambled back, rushing to the stern.
Avalendor had managed to sink down all but three ships. The other two ships were turning around, heading back to the large mass that would be unseen by Avalendor. The news had to be given that they were going to need another plan on getting onto the isle.
The commander hoped that the men of the burning ships had managed to jump overboard and swim to shore to begin the battle. He hadn't been able to see that that had actually happened.

* * *

A half hour later, Lord Aramis saw the three ships returning towards them. His fingers gripped tightly to the rail and he stared at the ships. Waiting. There was news. Good, he hoped. It would be a bloody shame if they needed to waste anymore of their time that they needed to. Perhaps Avalendor had gotten scared at the sight of them and surrendered right off. Would make things a hell of a lot easier.
The lead ship of the three stopped once they were close enough and a raft boat was lowered into the water. Aramis waited as the men within the boat rowed towards his own and then climbed on board. The commander stood in front of him.

"My lord..." He let out a heavy sigh. "The ships you see now, are all that remain of the first group set out to attack Avalendor. They were more prepared than we thought they'd be. They attacked with fire. A strength we were not expecting--their archers. Got quite the aim, they do... I think a new plan needs to be made. They will continue to fight us off in this way if we keep sendin' off groups of ships. We'll never get onto the shore that way."

Lord Aramis was furious. His face was nearly turning red! He let out a loud growl. "Damn that wench of a queen!" He grabbed a random man that stood next to him and shoved him hard down to the deck of the ship. He laughed loudly, a sarcastic laugh. "How th' bloody hell is this possible? They're an army of what? A hundred? We've got bloody thousands!!! Ye had 300 men in just that trip alone! What's th' matter with ye!?!" He yelled out in frustrated anger.
The sun was starting to come up, now in the horizon. There would be no more night-time sneaking in. That was out of the plan, now. Aramis grabbed the collar of the commander's shirt and pulled him closer, speaking through gritted teeth.

"Now Oi doin't bloody care how ye do it... Just get on that island and kill the bloody damn people. Bring the queen whore t' me. I'll show her how t' be a whore... And she won't be saved this bloody time! Send 50 ships this next round, yeah?"
He pushed the commander away from him and waved him off.

* * *

The commander returned to his ship. It was a while before any of the ships had even begun to move. There was serious planning going around, and strategies attempting to be made. The plans were spread through the next fifty ships that would set off towards Avalendor.

The plan: The fifty ships would not sail off together as one large mass, going in the same direction. Instead, the ships, as they sailed off, split apart from one another, some going east, some going west, the others heading straight to the isle.
They would surround Avalendor from all sides, this time. That way, all of the isle's army would not be able to allow for all of their archers and fighters to be firing from the same spot, but would become weaker and spread out to try and defend themselves. Surely some of the ships would make it to the shore. The other plan, if that was proving to fail, they would abort ships and gather into the row boats and row or swim their way to the shore, prepared to fight.

They would get onto Avalendor. They were sure of it.


She rolled her eyes at Brahm and just shook her head. Damned man, she never could stand him, and she honestly had no idea Aithne grew up with him. But a small grin formed on her lips as Aithne decided she would stick around and fight with her and the infantry, for now. She just nodded. "Just like old times, eh?" But she never turned her focus away from the distance. She watched as the cavalry moved in and started to fight off the group of survivors from the burning ships. Eyebrows furrowed in slight confusion. Orders had been given out to send the cavalry in before the infantry? What was that all about? She cursed under her breath, almost silently. "Damn..." She shouted out loudly, an order to her men. "Keep your guards up!"
She stood tall, her face stoic and unexpressive as her eyes focused on the small battle that went on in front of the infantry lines with the enemy and the cavalry. Once the riders moved aside for the infantry to move in, she glanced around. All the men were down already, it seemed, though some were just injurred. She let out a sarcastic laugh at it. Her infantry wasn't going to serve as a clean up crew to finish up the jobs that the cavalry didn't. She was certain that any enemy that stood up, would be few at a time and that their lances and swords could be used to knock them right back down. So she remained where she was, never giving orders to move forward to attack the already fallen men. It would be a waste of time, especially since there were still more ships coming.

Then the arrows flew through the air by the enemy ships. Naevah yelled out. "Sheilds up!" She grabbed Aithne's arm, pulling her closer to her side, since she had noticed the woman did not have a sword on her at the moment. She raised her sheild up, high over her head, sheilding herself and Aithne as the rain of arrows came at them, mainly only reaching the front of their lines. She waited until silence came over them again before her shield was lowered.
Grey-blue eyes shifted back towards the horizon at the ships. But something else was happening. Tresteria was moving in, in defense of them. Her eyebrows lowered as she caught sight of the flames. Had Saelis attacked them already? She took several steps forward, attempting to get a better look. She watched until the fire that appeared to be burning down the Tresterian ships suddenly moved up into the air and towards the enemy ships. A small grin formed on her lips. Clever. There was a small moment of silence, as everyone just watched what would happen next. She scanned over the soldiers on horseback until she caught sight of Zane. Her eyes narrowed at him, but she wore a small smirk on her lips. She'd catch up to the number that Zane already had on him, now, and that was the kind of look she gave him, then.

The ships were being defeated and the screams and cries of men sounded through the heavy air. The ocean sounds were something different now. And now more drenched foot soldiers began to swim and crawl their way onto the shore. She took several steps back, falling back into line and she just waited. "Prepare to fight, men." But she stood still, not yet giving orders to move forward to attack those crawling on shore. What kind of fight would that be? An easy one, for sure. But she watched them like a hawk and as soon as the enemies were standing and moving forward with their weapons drawn, Naevah shouted loudly. "ATTACK!!!"
Finally. She could almost hear the thoughts of her men at her order. And they would run forward with their commander towards the enemy, weapons drawn.
The infantry would show Avalendor just how fierce and strong they really were. The men were fierce and brutal, never giving any of the enemies a chance to even surrender or run away.
Naevah had her sword drawn. She moved fast from one man to the next, kicking them down, stabbing them, slicing them apart. She had no compassion in that moment--no sympathy. There was no going easy on anyone then. She hated Saelis and that showed in her fighting--she was a raging mad-woman, going off like a walking time bomb.

Then when things fell silent again, she stopped, catching her breath. Her sword was returned to her hip and she glanced up, watching those three ships sail off into the horizon again. Her men began to shout with victory and she shook her head, yelling out. "Back into formation. You think this bloody war is done with? There's more coming. This was nothing!"
They stopped in their celebration, then and moved back into formation. For now, they would have to wait again for the next attack, not knowing when or how that would turn out. Though, their first attack had been a victory, it was far from over. Naevah knew that much.

"Indeed it is," she replied to Naevah with a smirk. She gave a quick glance back to her brother to make sure he was settled in alright. Well, seemed like it, and he was still being his brazen self. That smirk remained as she shook her head lightly at her own thoughts. Honestly, Aithne didn't know how she put up with him all the time. Perhaps the fact that they were siblings made it easier for her than others and they had gone through the same tragedy together with their parents. Brown hues shifted towards the shore, noticing the sun began to rise above the horizon...and she wondered if her father was on one of those ships. He was a cold, hard warrior, so there was little doubt in her mind that he'll wind up in this war at one point or another.

Following close behind Naevah, she was about to ask where the spare weapons were, but her words were cut off when the yells to lift their shields echoed across the grounds. A gaze upwards Aithne watched the arrows begin to come down upon the Avalendor army and she muttered a curse to herself as she then sought for cover. But Naevah already had that under control, yanking at her arm to pull her under her own shield. Aithne knew she could always count on her, even when Naevah was in one of her cranky moods. "I owe ye one," she commented lightly, keeping her gaze upon the shore. The cavalry was cleaving into those that survived the burning ships...but it would be the infantry's turn for a bit of slaughter when Naevah gave out the command.

She was hesitant at first, since the only weapons she had on her person were the twin, long knives. But when were they never not enough? "Ah, feck it." Unsheathing them from their resting spots at her lower back, Aithne charged towards the enemy alongside the infantry, no longer hesitating as blades were held down against her forearms, ready to cleave and impale into the vulnerable spots between the Saelis armor.

From her sprint she would come to a quick, skidded stop; arms brought up before her, swinging madly yet precisely against enemy faces, throats, and any other extremity that came in her way. Aithne moved quickly, using that agility of hers to the best of her ability for if she slowed down she might possibly leave a spot open for one of the enemy to attack...and she wore no armor or carried any other weapon upon her person. She was a wildcat among her prey, attempting to take down as many Saelis soldiers with three or less slashes of her blades, aiming for any unprotected parts of their bodies. Whether she succeeded with such or not, she knew her fellow Avalendor warriors would finish them off.

She was not some complete vicious, legendary warrior...But she was relentless, and that proved to be enough. If you had the strength and will to go into battle without fear, you might very well succeed and survive. Aithne held no guilt for joining Avalendor's side- Saelis was a part of her that she wanted desperately to forget. And she wanted to forget her father and everything he had done to ruin her life and Brahm's. This was pretty good therapy, no?

Ducking down into a roll to avoid a side swiping swing of an enemy sword, Aithne came back up into a crouch, fiercely slashing and stabbing at ones legs...and other sensitive nether regions. Once he was down, a reach forward and stab downward, she impaled the man in the stomach, then followed suit into his chest. After such, she came to realize the cries of war died down and only chants of victory were heard. Aithne knew better than to join them, because she was one of the few who was aware of the numbers Saelis had.

Naevah put them into their place and they began to move back into formation. Kneeling down still, Aithne wiped a bit of blood from her face with the back of her hand before cleaning those twin blades on the dead man's tunic. Doe eyes ticked to the side and to the man's lifeless hand that still clutched his sword. She canted her head a bit before reaching over and taking it from his grasp. "Hmm, thanks. No hard feelin's, yeah?" she joked to the corpse, though of course it was to herself. Rising to her full height after the knives were sheathed back into place, Aithne tested the weight of the sword, making sure it would be useable...But it was a bit too heavy, however, she'd take it to use for now until she could get a hold of a better weapon, probably from Avalendor's armory.

Julianna had been working hard with her rangers leading up to this war. She wanted to be prepared when the time came. Well now that it was here, the rangers had set up formations as she had trained them to do. The rangers were set up in small groups thought the forest and along the shores, remaining hidden from sight for the time being. They were in a way helping as eyes and ears until it came time for them to fight as well. Julianna was fairly centrally located, so her orders could go out in both directions.

All the rangers were hidden differently; Julianna herself was actually perched in one of the many solid trees the forest had to offer. Sword was sheathed at her hip, and her bow was at hand as well. She remained still like those who were hidden around her. She had a good view of her surroundings for this spot, but what she couldn’t see other rangers could. She had been informed of the victory with the ships that had come in before, but that didn’t mean that there wasn’t more to come. She had a feeling things were only going to get worse. She would not take those bright azure hues off the horizon.

She had a sinking feeling deep in her stomach, but none of her feelings would show upon her features. Julianna looked down to one of the men hidden on the ground. “Send the word that we need to keep our eyes in every direction, this I am sure is not over yet, and we need to be ready. Anything that looks suspicious should be reported. Remain hidden for as long as possible, we will have the advantage of surprise on them that way.” The ranger nodded and started the chain going both ways. The rangers were spread out, so they had devised a system of getting orders out discreetly.

A soft sigh escaped her as she turned her gaze back to the horizon. Right now she felt like she wasn’t doing anything to help, but this was part of their job description at times, waiting in hiding. It proved to be effective in the past for Julianna, she wasn’t going to change the methods she knew now.


Much time had passed since Marcus first arrived within the formations of the infantry. He stared out to the ocean in silence as the ships approached. He said nothing, didn't move an inch until the words he so desperately desired to hear were called out. Such was the demeanor of a seasoned soldier who knew the lengthy calms before the storm.

Alas Naevah uttered that beautiful word, and it was the only time he'd consider anything she said beautiful. Rushing down with the men, the aches and worries he may have had were left behind as the rush toward the enemy began.

As the enemy closed into his sights and the first cut of his blade was made--time seemed to stop and flow in an almost dreamlike manner. Every tear of flesh and smatter of blood could be seen and felt. The fierce eyes of the war-beaten soldier narrowed as the primal nature that takes one over in war consumed him.

The battle was far too easy...clearly this was just a taste of what was to come. As some of the men cheered, Marcus would grab the closest young soldier by the collar and pull so they were nose-to-nose. "You cheer for nothing...do not embarrass your bretheran any further." The soldier would be released as he looked over the ships that had yet to arrived...clearly it had only just begun.


"Ah--wee--bollocks to y'all!" Brahm could be heard exclaiming as he looked over to see Aithne having all the fun with the infantry. "I knew should've followed 'er wit' dat mess o' a woman." He muttered with a grunt, leaning forward against the saddle of his steed.

His fingers closed tight as the crack of his knucles were heard, staring jealously as Aithne and the infantry had their small bit of fun...much more than anything he was having here. "Bloody tossuhs..." he muttered again through the grind of his teeth before looking over the riders around him.

-::- And where was Thais during all this? Well to be quite frank he was on his way. Reaching the top of the slope that over looked the distant shores of Avalendor he paused long enough to give the mustang a rest to catch it's breath, no need to over exert the horse. It seemed he'd gotten there just in time to witness the cavalry lead the attack on the surviving ship wreaked sailors. His gaze drifted from the easily won battle to the seas, brows furrowed to see the aiding ships go up in flames but wait.. A grin would slowly form as he witnessed the clever plan take done most of the remaining ships but three. He remembered the warning of the old man and knew this was far from over.

The heel of his boots connected with the sides of the horse and they were off again like the wind moving with ease over and through any obstacle the forests left to reach the shores were he was jump from the back of the horse to join the fight to take down the survivors of the latest attack. He was no good with fighting on horseback and the horse instinctively seemed to know what to do and would turn away to get itself as far from harms way as possible as Thais himself darted forward to bring his sword down upon the first victim with a devastating blow the weight of the sword as well as the force of his might nearly slicing the man in half.

The battle was short lived and he was barely roused though looked as though he had no armor on when in truth it was hiding beneath his clothing and cloak. It was not long before the shout of the Infantry commander was heard as he turned to move in that general direction, weaving through the men like a ghost he seemed to go unnoticed till reaching Naevah's side. -::- " Let them enjoy the victory but not too long. This may be the last time they can take a breath. " -::- Would be his only comment about scorning them for cheering. He paused to gather some of his cloak and wipe the blood from his sword before sheathing it at his side. -::- " Fall back to the castle and send word to the rangers. They won't attack in one spot all at once again. We were lucky this time, I doubt they'll fall for the same trap twice. " -::- With that he'd barely give her chance to reply before he turned and vanished into the crowd of infantry men and women.

He'd emerge from the edge giving a whistle and the mustang would come out of hiding but not stop. He grabbed a hold of the mane as it passed and hoisted himself up upon the bare back of the horse. The ride was not long for it didn't take very long to locate the cavalry and the steed would slow at the feel of hands gripping the mane. Steel blues racked through the men and women of the cavalry in hopes to locate Ancaladar and direct the horse towards him to come to a pause around four or five feet away. -::- " Ancaladar, I hear you command a certain Zane Drozerson, is he still among you? "

Ancaladar had led his men and women by example, that stoic expression showed that there was no time for cheering and festivity amongst his men. He'd turn when Brahm had watched those infantry conducting their slaughter. "You're more then welcome to go ahead and join them ... and when you see their commander, remind her that this is war ... not some field of honor ... dead, is dead." He'd turn back to look out towards the ships that were burning, and those three that were fleeing back towards the main fleet. He'd sit there atop his horse quietly, stroking the horses neck delicatly as he breathed in the scent of blood and death.

Then, came their commander. He would quietly glance towards Thais as he rode up to the cavalry's ranks. He'd quirk a brow ever so slightly. "Aye, Zane is a man of mine ... one of the best I have ... " He'd turn his head, glancing back through the ranks, and calling out. "Zane ... come forwards, you're needed ..." He'd turn, looking back towards Thais. He didn't smile, but he nodded ever so slightly to his commander. "... any specific orders sir ?" He might as well inquire for the moment, since they had that moment before Zane would be getting to the front of the ranks.

Zane had unsheathed his sword and held it in his non dominate hand to wield it into his enemies that were ready for death. Both weapons were held by their owner and he slumped there tired in his seat. His sword was sheathed and his lance was balanced on the back of the horse neck just above his saddle. His counts were around 18, giving or taking several corpses that were not obviously finished.

Men erupted around them, mostly the infantry, celebrating the small victory that had been for their favor. Zane knew better, like the rest of them. There would be more coming and while it was nice to get ahead it also meant that there would be a chance for it to swing the other way. His solemn gaze watched the distance as the sun began to rise, offering them more light.

Zane had been discussing the fight with several other members, a jaunting laugh was upon his face. "Yeah did you see that one? Good job there Adam." The sudden command for him rose and he heard it for he was near enough. Pulling on the leather reigns of Artemis, him and his horse turned and headed at a slight jaunt to his commander. "Aye? What can I do for you Commander?" He had only once met the military commander and yet he still recognized him and so he gave a curt nod of respect to both.

[Soleil]

-::- He stayed comfortably atop the mustang as he waited, finally allowing his muscles to relax his shoulders would drop some but not entirely all that much noticeably. His gaze shifted to scan the many faces of the cavalry as he waited till Ancaladar's question would pull his attention back to the cavalry commander. -::- " Spread out in this area. But don't stretch too thin, we want to keep as many people alive as possible. This is only a small pinch compared to what Sealis has in store. "

-::- His words were spoken calmly as if he'd done this many times before. in truth his whole life was war just about from the day he first took up and bow and sword right up to when his ship wrecked against the cliffs of avalendor when he met the queen. Those eyes would shift from Ancaladar to Zane as he approached, he'd waste no time for every second could mean life or death. -::- " I've heard you spent most of your life on the sea, is this information correct? " -::- He would pause but only briefly long enough for the question to register before he continued on. -::- " Why I acquire your presence is because our Naval Commander has fallen.. You seemed to be the first person that came to mind and with Ancaladar' approval you are welcome to the position. Why I say with his approval, is because I was informed you are his best man? "

-::- His voice remained calm, as he was cool and collected as if at home in the presence of war. He would look from Zane to Ancaladar than back to Zane. He'd heard a few things about Zane though they had indeed only crossed paths once it wasn't often people would find the presence of the commander long if at all because he was always busy in waist high work since he took the position and his job very seriously. -::-

Artemis' hooves stirred the ground below; it was already weak from the battle that had stirred over it and so the dirt easily turned under the horse's shoes. Zane's green eyes were at first on his own supervisor until the military commander addressed him. Those eyes shifted, a bit startled that he was being addressed by such a man. Those squared shoulders puffed out as he sat fully up onto his stead with out the slump he had previously taken comfort in. The weight of their first scrap was thrown off, as if nothing had transpired for the last hour or so.

Once questioned by the whole military's commander, he gave a short nod. He had heard right- if all but 4 of his years meant most of his life then that was true. He lived and breathed salt air and staying on land had been a bit of shame as he longed for the rock of the ocean at night and it's lullaby. Those gloved hands gripped tighter to the lance that rested vicariously over the back of his horse's neck. If one could see the knuckles they would have been white. Not for the life lost, but rather the job that was now vacant and it's offering to him. He almost didn't think the understood at first and the words replayed in slow digestion. War was upon them and guiltily Zane was seizing up it's opportunity.

As Thais explained that it was the final say of his commander, an innate joy welled up and was proudly held in his smile. The words were touching and he was glad that they were shared with him in that moment. Green eyes drifted from one man to another to see what the final say would be. He felt honored in that moment, despite the foul smell of death around them.

"I would be honored to serve the Kingdom of Avalendor in any way that my talents would be most beneficial. It is true that my first and only known home has been the sea but it is also true that it has been a great honor to ride along side you Sir." and by that sir he had meant it for the calvary commander. He waited atop his horse for the final verdict with pride and confidence but some of that seemed to ebb off as he asked his question more meekly then his proud words had been said. "And does the military desire me to fill that void now or shall I wait till after the second volley?"

"Bah..." Brahm would scoff and shrug half-heartedly to the commander. "...plenty where they came from I 'spose. Let 'em have their bit o' fun. Our turn be comin very soon I'll imagine. Plus...already went through the trouble fer me horse. Would be somewhat pointless to step off it now y'know?"

With that he his tongue flicked through his teeth as he attempted to look over to the sea to see the approaching enemy. "I imagine we'll be makin our way down soon? Wouldn't do us any good to keep waitin up 'ere."


He sat quietly, contemplating the orders he had been given as he tried to remember every grain of sand and pebble here on the island, and where his men would be needed. He'd quietly glance back towards Zane, staying entirely out of the discussion about the promotion that Zane would have. It would make him Ancaladar's equal, and if any one of his men deserved such, then it was him. He sighed, glancing around quietly for a few long moments at the rest of the cavalry and contemplating them. "One man will make little difference in the charge ... Zane, it has been my honor riding with you ... Commander." He'd extend one of those gloved hands towards where Zane sat, his dark gray eyes looking into the younger mans as if to show the respect he had for him.

He had made his mind up, and he'd nod a bit as he shook Zane's hand from atop his horse, turning to glance back towards Thais. "He's yours then ...whatever it is my queen requires." He'd reign in that horse, trotting the few feet back towards the lines of cavalry. He'd point towards Terra. "You've just gotten a field promotion, you're now my second in command ... should I fall you lead these men." He sat up a bit straighter, his hand reaching for the lance he had stuck point first into the ground and hefting it from the dark earth. His voice came louder now, for all to hear. "Our orders are to spread out and cover the infantry and archers as they fall back ... do not celebrate now, but wait ... after this war is done with, I shall be the first to chear ... then shall we be free from this tyranical grip ... go now, spread ranks and ready for the next attack ..."

-::- He would sit silently for a moment as if to think over what his next words would be.. If there was any relief Zane accepted and was permitted to the promotion it didn't show.. Thais merely looked to Zane like he would any normal person. One thing about Thais most found odd he never thought anyone greater or smaller than himself. A faint smile offered as he watched another person become promoted to take Zane's place and co-commander of the cavalry.

His gaze would fall back to Zane when his question was heard and brows furrowed briefly but the serious expression never leaved him, probably wouldn't till Avalendor was safe again. -::- " As soon as you can get to the port Commander. The main ship would be waiting for your arrival but ride hastily for I do not doubt that Sealis is already on it's way back to try again. Once you do spread the ships out and send word through the ships to our allies to not abandon surrounding the isle. We want to keep as many ships from getting close to the isle as possible. " -::- He shifted upon the back of the mustang as he looked towards the shores.

Racking back and fourth across the open waters as if the ships and numbers would reveal themselves to him but he couldn't see any yet... Why was Sealis stalling so much? He'd only shake his head at the thought and smirk at his own foolishness.. It wasn't hard to decipher what their next plan might be but he knew they wouldn't attack with all the ships... Momentarily lost in thought he sighed and glanced towards Zane once more. -::- " Congratulations.. I trust you won't disappoint our queen? " -::- He seemed to know something the way he surveyed Zane now with a different air but hard to discover just what was boiling beneath the surface of the such a man. With that he gave a curt nod. -::- " They'll be expecting you. " -::- With that he turned the mustang and began to ride off back towards the shores.. Ever watchful he'd be ready and waiting for Sealis to rear their ugly heads once more. -::-

In a way, Terra was getting restless, missing her chance to go with some of the cavalry to take down the enemy that made it to shore...And to be honest, she was aggravated...very aggravated. And it was all the bloody Irishman's fault. Now she had to wait...for who knew how long.

Hazel eyes kept their gaze upon the water and the ships, silently watching the sun begin to rise. It was when the military commander approached the cavalry and Ancaladar called out for Zane, she couldn't help but shift her attention to the three of them. She wasn't being nosy and couldn't even hear what they were saying, but it was a nice way to ignore the ramblings of Brahm. Did he ever shut up? Couldn't he go with the infantry?

She canted her head a bit to the side, wondering what was going on...And she'd get a faint idea as her commander approached and pointed in her direction to...promote her? What happened to Zane? Brows furrowed beneath that helmet before removing it to put on a very faint, actually a hardly there, hint of a smile just to be polite. And she'd nod once, "Yes, sir," would be all she said, a light frown turning those lips down a little. Was it her or did that seem very...informal? 'You've just gotten a field promotion...' She had a damn name, did she not?

Why wasn't she excited about this? This was something she had dreamed about...well, part of what she dreamt about. Perhaps she was just getting moody. "You heard the commander, spread out!" she'd repeat for those who might've not heard the man or had just joined the ranks. Gestures and shorter commands were made to help split the men up before she'd move with her own group in the area of the infantry.


Naevah had allowed the men to celebrate, but only for a brief moment. That was enough celebration before she had barked out her order to silence them and to get back into formation. It was just silly. Were they going to celebrate every tiny little victory that was made? Waste of time. All this was, was a splash of water in a large lake. There was a lot more to come. Avalendor had seen nothing yet. She was certain since she had seen and been part of Saelis' wars before. She knew how they fought, she knew of their plans and unless they mixed them up a bit, which seemed very unlikely, Naevah doubted things had changed from what she already knew. A small sigh escaped her and she yelled out again. "Fall back, infantry. Back in line." She crouched down and cleaned her sword off against the grass before she stood to her
full height and sheathed the sword back against her hip. Blue-grey eyes glanced around, first watching her men retreat back to the formation lines. A small slap on the back was given to one of her privates and she offered him a smile. "Good fight, private. Keep up the good work." She stayed behind slightly, making sure that all of her men were ahead of her now, and she took one more glance around at all of the fallen, mainly to see if there were any casualties on Avalendor's side. There were a couple that were wounded, she had seen. And she crouched down beside one man and offered a gentle smile to him. Her hand moving over to examine his wound on his side. "Well. They've got ye pretty damn good. But we'll get ya a healer and you'll be back fighting with us soon, yeah?" She gave him a hopeful smile before she crouched down more to lift one of his arms and drape it over her shoulder. She helped him stand, a loud shout of pain errupting from the man. Naevah steadied him before she started to walk with him, allowing him to use her for balance as he staggered. She moved along with him until she bumped into one of her privates who came to assist. "Get this man to the infirmary, alright?" He nodded in response and took the weight of the man from Naevah's shoulders and the two men moved along. The other injurred were already up and moving to get back into formation. Naevah turned and stopped them, looking them over quickly.
"Can ya still fight, boys?" She raised a brow. One man held up his arm with a large gash in his bicep. The other man with a tear in his side. Both of them nodded. Naevah tilted her head to the side and then let offered a wide grin. "Right. That's what I like to hear. Toughen up and fight it off. Get those wounds wrapped up or things might get ugly." One man laughed and nodded. "Yes sir!" It was a little inside joke her and her men had with one another. When they walked off, Naevah scanned over the bodies again, searching for any enemies that were still alive, or any Avalendor casualties or injurred she had missed. She made an occassional glance to the shores to see if anymore ships were coming. During one of those glances, she spotted Zane on his horse, speaking to Ancaladar and Thais. She was slightly curious, but even more curious about how he was doing so far and what his number of kills were at this point in time.


The man, Thais, gave his orders to the newly instated commander who felt pride and discontent through out the short conversation. This offer was a true honor and he viewed it as a great accomplishment to have been made such an honorable offer. However, he felt disappointed that now he would be taken away from the men and women he had trained so hard with. It would be a lie if I didn't tell you he had looked forward to his first real battle on land. Sea had been a part of him since he was sent off from the shores of the first Avalendor but his dreams had been to fight atop a stead. This mild disappointment was over shadowed with the respect and joy he had for his promotion and went unnoticed by anyone and everyone else; instead he smiled as the emphasis on not letting the queen down had been given. Had he known what the two had planned? He knew the two were close but he had assumed she didn't want Thais to know what she planned on doing or anyone else for that matter. He contemplated this thought as Artemis was guided from the huddle by her reigns. The two, horse and master, rode slowly though the mess of fighters. Most of the enemies were all dead now and it seemed they had little casualties on their side. Zane was watching those around him, perhaps he could take a wounded with him off the battle field on his way to the ports. That was when he saw Naevah moving among the wounded. He slowed slightly at first and simply watched her before he stopped and offered his services. "I can take any wounded out with me if you would like." It wasn't until after the comment was made that he realized how odd it would seem.


Naevah heard the familiar voice from behind her, just as she was helping up another wounded man from the mess of bodies. She held the man up by draping his arm over her shoulder. She slowly turned to look back and see Zane with his horse. Her eyebrows furrowed slightly at his offer. "Where do you think you're going? The cavalry is headed back." She motioned with a nod in the direction the cavalry was going in, along with her infantry. Naevah was all business at the moment, especially since she now nearly carried one of her men against her. But she wanted nothing more than to just throw her arms around Zane and kiss him. Just incase it would be their last chance to. Though she held a stoic expression in that moment, her eyes were soft and she was certain Zane would be able to pick up on her thoughts. The man that held onto her took a few deep breaths before he steadied himself. "Commander, I can walk myself. Thank you." He pulled away from her and stood up, wincing at the wound he had on his arm. Naevah turned her attention away from Zane and to the infantryman, then. She gave him a simple nod. "Alright. You should go get that arm stitched up, you're losing a lot of blood." It was true, the man's arm was bathed in red, his shirt was covered in the crimson mess. The man hesitated a moment, as if he didn't want to listen and wanted to go join the formation again. But he knew better than to go against Naevah's orders, and he wasn't feeling too good. So he turned and headed in the direction of the infirmary. Naevah glanced back to Zane, eyebrows lowering in confusion and with question, as if to return to her previous question before the man had interrupted what would have been Zane's answer.


His eyes had been on her the whole time and as she spoke her question he couldn't help but let a smile over take his mouth, framed by a pair of dimples. He still didn't respond though as he now looked to the man who was bleeding and weighing her down. Looking between the two, he registered what was the softening of her normally statuesque demeanor. Despite his orders to expedite his departure he dismounted from his horse and offered to help the man walk only to have his and Naevah's offer rejected. As the man staggered on his own, Zane ripped off a part of his sleeve and handed it to the man for fresh bandaging until he made his way to the infirmary. "I can help you to the infirmary in one moment." His words were as if directing the man away from them so as their conversation would be more private and even the wounded could understand that. His hands were slid from their metal braces, leaving only a short wooded padded one and he moved to unlatch the breast plate from his chest. He wouldn't need that where he was going. Still he had not answered her question. He wanted to get out the news with out the wide silly grin that kept creeping up each time he moved to say it. Eventually he sighed and looked up with a very straight face. "The ships commander is dead. One of our most grave casualties thus far. However, war is opportunity for me for I am to replace him immediately." The last bit of his words caused the dimples to sink in around his lips and with a shake of his head he tried to banish them away. Instead those soft waves of brown fell forward to be pushed back by his fingers. " I.." He wanted to admit that there were more then one reason for his hesitation; not only was he glad to see her but he also was nervous about the sudden change in roles. He had spent little time around their boats and less time around their staff. But instead of voicing his concerns he simply smiled again. "You' re lucky because this means that you'll get even further ahead of my 18" A soft chuckle was given as he fully pulled of his breast plate and strapped it onto his saddle.


Naevah watched Zane and the infantryman for a moment, until the man wandered off and Zane moved back towards her. Her eyes watched him as he removed his armor, and that was only leaving her more confused. Was he giving up on them, or something? What was this? But as Zane began to speak, her brows furrowed slightly. Kaleb was dead? Her eyes wandered off towards the sea for a moment but the returned to Zane as he gave her the news and caught sight of those dimples. Her own lips pulled into a wide grin. She was happy for him, and had the surroundings been different, she would have tackled him down with a hug to congratulate him. Damn those dimples though. They made her want to kiss him even more. Her lips pressed together as a way to lessen the grin on her lips and she slowly nodded. "Then you should get to it immediately, commander." She offered him another quick smile, but it slowly faded as he spoke again. I. . . He hesitated and cut himself off. She could see that hesitation and nervousness and she only gave him a reassuring smile. Zane, instead of telling her how he felt about it, brought up their little competition. She let out a quiet laugh, then and nodded. "Eighteen, eh? Not bad for a pretty boy getting his hands dirty." She grinned. "If you take any ships down... That doesn't count unless all of them die. Just so you know." She reached forward, placing a hand on Zane's shoulder, giving it a small squeeze. Her way of giving him slight comfort in that moment. Her eyes stayed on his, telling him without words that she was proud of him, and happy for him, and that he would do fine in his new rank and position. Zane had lived on the sea, this wouldn't be anything too new for him. Except maybe he was the one in charge now. The thought brought another grin to her lips and she squeezed his shoulder again. "I'm up to twenty-eight now, by the way." Now would probably be the time to move on, but Naevah didn't. She remained standing there in front of Zane, wanting to say so many things as quickly as she could, but hesitated against it all. She sighed quietly, finally and spoke. "Take care of yourself out there. I really don't like birds..."


He watched her as she started to push him away and onto his duty. He felt like he had hours before they needed to be in position again and he wanted to stay right there to squeeze out a few more moments before returning to the gentle rhythm of the sea. Her hand upon his shoulder and her encouraging words only made him regret his previous thought. Those shoulders squared under her touch and he knew he would have to leave soon. As her hand fell from it's hold he caught it into his own, simply holding it discreetly for that moment. " 28, eh? I figured I would have time to catch up when the next wave hit. Hopefully I can take down several boats successfully and then I'll have some higher numbers." His smile remained there present the whole time. He almost leaned in when she mentioned the birds and she might have been able to tell but instead he hovered closer and spoke softly. "Neither do I, you hear?" With that he pulled away with a soft sigh and walked his horse over to the injured man who had made a small dent in his travels. By now the man was much weaker so Zane lifted them both up onto the saddle, with the injured in front and took him towards the infirmary where he let him down to one of the aides there. "He has a bad arm wound. Thank you for helping him." That was all that he gave before he left to his new post.


Naevah smiled as he hovered closer to her. She could see and tell that his thoughts nearly mirrored her own. His words sent a small tug within her chest and she frowned as he pulled away. A simple nod was given to him in response. Grey-blue eyes watched him wander back to his horse. She felt regret in that moment. And just before he reached his horse, Naevah sighed and cursed under her breath. "Oh, to hell with it!" Her steps were quick and she rushed over to Zane, catching him before he went off to help the man. She threw her arms around him, not even bothering to look if anyone was watching her, or them. She hugged him tightly against her before her hand came to the side of his head and she pressed her lips against his, allowing a long, deep and lingering kiss to play over their lips for almost a good minute before she pulled away and glanced into his eyes for a moment. She smiled to him and then nodded her head. "Remember that, yeah?" She took a few steps backwards, away from him, a small smirk playing along her lips now. She turned then and headed back towards the castle, where her infantry formation was hopefully lining back up.

He was almost to the injured man before he knew she had changed her mind. Slowly he turned to face her once more and his own arms wrapped defensively around her waist. He held her tightly while they shared the lingering kiss and he laughed softly with the release. "Of course." She was always all business and to see her change in front of him was still an amusing surprise. It would seem that Zane was now left with a bright smile, one that didn't seem to be about to fade. Today, despite the fact that they were fighting, had been a grand night; he only hoped to feel the same way once the sun hit high noon. As he helped the injured man onto his horse he could see that there was slight confusion in the moment he had just spied upon. "I suppose the rumors are true, the navy get all the girls around here. Maybe when you get better you can request a transfer." Not meaning to place Naevah in the same image as those that he had just lumped her into he tried to think of a way to back track his words but he came up with none. "She is a very respectable woman." That was all he could manage and it sounded rather lame. Once he deposited the injured man into the safe care of a healer he was off to the ports with the greatest speed that his horse offered. Dismounting he patted her and tied her up in a safe place before boarding what was now one of his ships.

Aithne sat there upon the grass, cleaning those twin blades of hers off more before toying with that sword she had taken, aimlessly listening to all that was going on. Apparently they were to go to the castle. But she still sat there, lifting dark eyes from the weapons to glance around the area...She didn't know anybody, so she kept to herself, actually happy no one approached her and tried to play nice. Frankly, the trip and everything else she had to do to make it here, tired her out. However, that didn't mean she'd stop fighting and let Naevah enjoy her spotlight. Speaking of the commander...

A shift of her gaze, she found the blonde speaking to a man, all smiles and giggles. This surely was an odd sight indeed, granting a rise of a brow in question as she continued to watch them. It was when Naevah practically jumped him to bring him into an embrace...and then a deep kiss, Aithne's eyes went wide. Well now...wasn't that a very rare sight indeed. She smiled wildly, laughing quietly to herself as she watched Naevah walk away and back to her soldiers. Dark hues remained upon the warrior woman, waiting for her to take notice and turn to look at her. If she actually did, that smile of hers would return and she'd offer a cant of her head, resting forearms on bent knees. "So...he's actually not afraid of ye, I take it?" She paused. "Or maybe he's too afraid ta deny ye?" she joked, both brows lifting in gesture.

"Perfect..." Brahm would mutter as he heard the orders. Well...at least his horse was going to get some excercise. The burly rider would ride along-side Terra, looking around as the rest of her group formed around them. He appeared somewhat tired, even taking the time to yawn as he gently tugged the reigns of his steed to ease the pace. "So...'pose this gonna be a long day for us hm?" He would ask with somewhat of a smirk as he looked to her. "Sorry 'bout the scene back there." His arm gestured to where they once were, meaning how he behaved with her before. "S'been a long couple days fer my sister and I."

She had been unable to find Orin and had found her way back to the infirmary as one of the novice healers came racing through the gates. "They are bringing wounded." Grabbing her skirts she brushed past the young novice and made her way to the building. Her heart pounded in her chest, all the while her mind whispered to her, she had nothing to worry about she had given Orin a token she had charged to protect him. Still her heart pounded at the thought of the wounded that lay within the building. As she entered the first of the rooms in which the wounded would be brought to she tied an apron about her waist and started to do what she did best... heal.

She had to be strong and she had to stay focused.. if anything were to happen to Orin she could not let it affect her work. So she focused on the matter at hand and with the help of the novice healers they cleaned out the wound and applied the polstice and tried thier best to provide comfort to the wounded.


Naevah was grinning like crazy as she walked away from Zane, and she tried her best to hide it, but she had been caught by no other than Aithne. She turned her gaze upon the seated woman and her eyes narrowed at her as she spoke her words. Her hand extended, finger pointing at her and she gave her a threatening look.
"Hah hah hah." Naevah gave her most sarcastic laugh to her funny little friend and she shook her head, her lips unable to keep from growing into a small smirk.
Her steps moved closer to Aithne and she extended her hand out to her to help her up. "The men here in Avalendor are real men, that are respectful...Most of them, at least, yeah?" She smiled faintly and shrugged her shoulders. "Anyway... I haven't seen our archer commander around. I hope she's alright. But maybe they could use some of your skills over there, unless ye still wish to stay with me in the infantry. I suppose we have a bit more time until the next round, though I don't imagine much. Lord Aramis probably has his breeches in a knot by now, and is about to throw something at us before he can say 'off with her bloody head!'" She mocked a very poor English accent, but it was quite humorous, to say the least. "I gotta get back and prepare my men for the next round." She placed a hand on her friend's shoulder and gave it a small squeeze. For a moment, she hesitated and then she offered her a smile. "It's good to see you again. I did miss you..."
She huffed out a small sigh before she turned away and headed back towards the castle where her men were lining up again. She moved to the front of the line and spoke out loudly. "Nice work, boys. Let's keep our strength up. The next battles won't be as easy as the last. If you've lost your weapons or shields, I suggest you get new ones fast, or deal with the consequences of not having one. Your choice, but don't be wasting any time..." She paused for a moment, her grey-blue eyes scanning over her crowd of mostly men before they shifted over towards the lines of cavalry. She had to speak to Ancaladar. And so her eyes searched for him until she spotted him.

Her footsteps were quickened, almost a run as she moved over to him and lightly grabbed the reins of his horse, standing in front of him. "Commander. A quick word with you, if I may?" She raised a brow in a questioning manner, waiting for to man to respond before she would say anything else.

Ancaladar had been sitting with a few of those large men, all of whom held their lances erect and straight, an honor guard as it were. Their lances weren't fancy like most kingdom's however, with flying banners. No, the polished black wood and cold iron made them much more effective. When the sound of a woman's voice reached him, and she appeared before him. A brow rose ever so slightly. Slowly however he would nod down towards her. A twist of those hips, and a quick drop from the saddle had the two on the same level as each other. Ancaladar would stand quietly, a hand stroking his horse's neck. "What can I do for you commander ?" Those gray eyes met hers, and then darted towards the battle lines, in case he was needed.

Naevah wore her stoic expression, no other emotion displayed upon her strong features. But as Ancaladar questioned her, she let go of a sigh through her lips, her fingers slipping away from the reins of his horse. "I feel we may need better communication between our divisions, yes?" Her brows furrowed and she looked straight into his eyes, a stern and serious look in her own. Though she remained completely calm, knowing it wasn't the place and time to be fighting against each other when they were supposed to be fighting with one another--but she was quite ticked off by what had happened--by her division being expected to be treated as a clean-up crew. She wasn't going to stand for it. Maybe if that was the way they had fought, it certainly wasn't her way of fighting, and not what she had spent months training with her men. But for now, she kept her emotions in check, and waited to hear what he had to say in response to her suggestion, though before he could get a word in, Naevah spoke to add in another thing. "More communication between the two of us, as well, yeah?"

He stood stoic as she, his gray eyes returning to hers as he rested a hand on the hilt of the longsword he wore on his hip, folding his hand over the butt as he cradled his helmet with the other hand. Quietly he'd give a short nod, the tail of that dark brown hair bouncing slightly with the motion. "I agree that we need to speak more ... and communicate better... my men, are cavalry ... we ride through an enemy, that is what we are trained and designed to do ... a cavalry member that is standing still, is not doing his job ... now, there will be plenty of Valour when all of this is over, but you must remember that this is not about honor or courage ... this is war ... none of those men would have waited as you did, for you and yours to get their footing ... because they understand it's kill or be killed ... now I don't care how you run your men, but that stunt could have very well endangered my men, and worse... their families." He'd lock gazes with her, burrowing those steel gray eyes of his into her soul. He was dead right, and he knew it. Combat wasn't about valour and honor, it was kill or be killed.

She fully agreed with him that a cavalry member standing still was not doing their job, but that didn't mean they went through once, and stopped and depended on the infantry to get the rest of what they couldn't get in their first shot? With the infantry, there was no group to clean up their messes. Her men had to throw themselves into the battle, and stay in the battle, there was no riding out of it, or backing down until the battle was over. She sighed, remembering back to a time where her and Zane had a conversation about the strengths and weaknesses of both divisions and that both equally had their fair share of difficulties. Her brows furrowed slightly as Ancaladar nearly scolded her for her little "stunt". The situation would have been completely different if she saw more of a threat and if there had been more men to fight. But she wasn't going to fight it. Instead, she just simply nodded. "Point taken, commander Silverbane. But you must understand where I come from, I am not used to the cavalry jumping into battle before the infantry. I heard my men from behind me questioning the fact, and I had no answer to give because the actions were not even told to me. I was left standing around guessing what to do. I don't want to bloody fight this war with guesses. It is completely careless... Next time..." She paused in her words and pressed her finger against her chest and then pointed at him before returning her finger to her chest. "You and I better have set plans and communications about how things are going to be done, yeah?" Her brows lowered and then rose as she nodded her head.

Ancaladar nodded ever so slightly, turning to look back towards his men for a moment. He'd quietly drum those fingertips on the butt of that sword, contemplating them. "Well Commander Northam ... where I'm from, Cavalry always rides into the attacking infantry first, especially if they aren't armed with pikes ... because the Cavalry can decimate an infantry unit, much more quickly and easily then another infantry unit ... now, as far as our communication ... I agree, we need it more then we've had ... especially with there being no set strategy that we've been made privy to ..." A sort of growl escaped him as he turned his face back towards her, those gray eyes taking in her men as well as his own. "So, what orders were you given ? Fall back to the castle ?" He'd quirk a brow, the rebuffing for both of them he hoped, was done. Now, they needed to work together, or perish.

Naevah listened intentively and she slowly nodded in agreement. It did seem an affective way to fight, even she would admit that. "Yes, I can see that. But should they be more prepared the next time, then you are dealing with spears and swords striking down your horses and placing you as a foot soldier. This is why I've known the infantry to go in first--to weaken the strength of the enemy so the cavalry can back up the infantry in the fight and catch them off guard while they are distracted with fighting the infantry." She shrugged her shoulders and sighed before she shook her head. "But anyway... Yes, we were told to fall back to the castle. Though I do not know why. I have no doubts that Saelis will come up with another plan, that will not mirror the one they just attempted this time. I'll willing to guess they'll try and surround the island with their ships, try to reach land at least in one spot... Try to force us to spread out and weaken our lines by having to rush to spread out and have fewer units on each end. So all of us standing around here is well... Sort of... dumb?" She raised a questioning brow at him, reading his expressions to see whether or not he agreed. "I've fought before on the side of Saelis... I know how they think, or how they try to think..." She smirked and let out a small laugh, placing her hand on Ancaladar's shoulder before she glanced over at her formation. "I know your second in command was just promoted to Navy commander, but do you have someone else that can step up and lead a smaller group of your cavalry? Perhaps we should split our divisions into two, one on each side of Avalendor...?"

He nodded when she spoke, keeping quiet through the entirety of what she had to say. In the end however, he shook his head slowly. "You've got orders to fall back to the castle ... perhaps there's a plan that we're unaware of ... unless we're given such orders from above, I'll not be following them ... Thais told me to have my men break into smaller units and head in different directions. They will let us know when Saelis has landed ... those are the orders given to me." He'd nod ever so slightly, reaching upwards and patting her hand gently. He'd turn slowly, looking around at his men and taking a deep breath. "... I just hope that Thais knows what he's doing ... perhaps, you should have your men fall into the castle walls, defend it as if a siege ? It'd be easier to defend that way ..." He'd shrug those shoulders, reaching over and resting his hand on the haft of that horse man's war hammer quietly. "... I wish I knew what that man's planning."


Naevah's jaw tightened as Ancaladar informed her of what he knew--which wasn't much, and she slowly shook her head before cursing under her breath. "Damn it!" She hated being left in the dark like this. How can orders be made so blindly? That's how she felt right now, and it was frustrating her beyond her limits. But she kept herself composed and simply nodded. "Aye. I suppose that is what we will have to do. I just hope that the citizens have had time to get themselves into the castle before this war comes out full force...Because if all my men are defending the castle, what's going to defend the rest?" Her brows furrowed in slight confusion and she nodded to Ancaladar. "Though it would be lovely for our commander to start giving us direction and clear thoughts rather than calling out orders without explaining them, yeah?" There was obvious annoyance in her eyes now but she forced a slight smile. "Aye. Well, best of luck to you and the cavalry. If ye need anything, let me know. We should have some kind of signal. How 'bout 'bloody Saelis bastards, go to fecking hell!'" She smirked widely and shrugged her shoulders, taking several steps backwards, away from him and the cavalry and back towards the infantry lines.

He'd laugh at her comments, shaking his head from side to side as she started away. "But then what would your men's battle cries be ?" He'd call out to her, twisting and raising a leg to shove one foot into the stirrup of his horse, one large hand grabbing hold of the pommel and a quick haul up onto the back of that beast to resume command of his men. A nod given towards her, and a signal for his men to follow him as he started towards the shore. He needed to check the smaller units, make sure they were all doing their jobs well enough.

Naevah grinned slightly and shrug her shoulders. "Their battle cries would be 'up yours ye bleeding wankas!' " She'd do a mockful English accent, and laugh at herself, before giving Ancaladar another nod. She turned then and walked back to her lines, which were stretching out to surround the entire castle several lines doubling. She was still thankful for the allies that were fighting with them.

Brahm would lean forward on his horse, looking to Terra and then back toward the lines of infantry behind Naevah. It was then he found Niamh and slowly he sat up with a proud smile on his face. He would bring his arm in and pat it with his free hand, as if reminding her if she was keeping her arms compact when swinging her sword, so her strikes were more efficient. "M'sistuh..." He muttered to Terra if she were watching him and thought he was going mad by his actions. His arm motioned ahead to Aithne, to show Terra who he spoke of. "M'blood..." His voice seemed to take a softer nature before he turned to Terra and smiled. "When this battle is over I wish to embrace her once more. I pray that chance comes...and that you may return to embrace who dearest to you." The brash Brahm seemed genuinely kind for the moment, but such was his reaction when around or near his little and dearest sister.

Marcus would walk, weaving through the lines of infantry. His hand lightly patting those on the shoulder. A quick wink, and a faint smile pursing through his bearded lips to make sure their morale was ok. Some even got a light fist to their chest in salute. Some would smile, for it meant a great deal to have the approval from the veteran they heard of during their studies.

He would stop over behind Niamh, watching ahead as Brahm seemed to send her a hand singal or...something of that kind. Quietly he would step to her side as he quickly deciphered the gesture, often seeing it when he was trained. "Tuck your arms in..." He muttered and looked to Niamh with a smirk. "...allows for more precise and forceful striking without sparing much strength. Smart man." He would comment to her giving a quiet chuckle and looked to Naevah returning. A deep breath was taken before he continued. "We pass time here for nothing...the men grow weary." His tone taking a slight growl as he muttered to Niamh, those his eyes remained of Naevah.

Orin had followed along not far behind Thais but stayed back when the man charged into a battle that was already won by Avalendor, he could see that from how weakened the Sealis men looked from the swim. Teeth clenched for a moment when he noticed just how many of their own was already wounded, his heels tapped against either side of the horse and it moved to carry him down towards them.. Losing site of Thais in the crowd he didn't bother to try and relocate the man.

Shifting he dismounted to try and assist some of the wounded to their feet, those that could walk. Those that couldn't he offered a ride on his horse. At this point he knew for sure from not moving into formation when the first bell rang the warnings the commander would probably have his head, but at the moment he didn't care. He could lose the job all together as it were but right now his thoughts were more consumed by war... There was so many that time and from what he heard Saelis was rather large he half wondered why they weren't attacking all at once instead of bits and pieces..

He shook his head and moved to the next, moving among the wounded offering help where he could till reaching a few that couldn't stand he'd assist two atop his horse who at first didn't look to pleased to have someone else but him riding but took to the two wounded men easily as if knowing it was needed. He turned away as the two rode towards the infirmary with the others and he moved among the infantry till reaching the edge of the group where he could look out over the sea.. When he came here that had been his favorite spot for solitude.. Now it was riddled with blood and dead Sealis...

She honestly already believed Brahm was mad. Obnoxiously so, actually. Terra had sent her attention to him boredly as he was making the silly gestures, lifting a brow in slight wonderment. He picked up on that awkward look and explained to her about his sister, in which her attention would briefly fall upon the young Irish female. All she could do was sigh before letting those hazels travel around the area in search of someone close to her. "My sister is also in this war...She leads the rangers of the isle," she lightly added, her tone actually not holding that annoyance for Brahm that it had moments earlier. Perhaps because she was speaking of something important to her.

"I worry for her," she said, basically without even realizing it, removing the helmet from her head as it appeared no battle would be starting up again for a little while.

Erin was completely panic stricken, perhaps more so because she had a few drinks just before as she was starting to close up the tavern for the night. But once the alarms were sounded and the people began to fall into deep worrry, Erin ran around frantically after dragging Kieren back into the tavern, collecting anything she would find important into a brown satchel.

"All the citizens are headed to the castle," she spoke quickly to Kieren, not pausing for anything. She stuffed any sort of food and drink she could into the bag before running into the back room to collect some of her belongings as well. A shawl was thrown over her shoulders before she emerged back into the tavern to look at him to see if he had done anything. "Well, are you coming?" she rushed, throwing the satchel over one shoulder before moving towards the door.