Family Circle, 5/18
May. 18th, 2006 10:10 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
leticiaStoryteller says "And thus we pick up: The barbarians of this camp are huddled in their various domiciles, waiting the judgement that the priest has most cheerfully assured them will be coming. Ten River Wind has not yet attempted to bolt, and the former-prisoners have been removed from the stockade, and are milling. The dead bodies aren't, anymore. Still dead, that is, but not bodies."
Yoru glances at Ten River Wind and then at the priest. Turning to whichever of his Circle is closest he asks, "Do we involve ourselves with this?"
Storyteller says "You've rescued a bunch of farm hands, a several barbarians - probably people who crossed Ten River Wind - a few merchants from elsewhere, and one little kid and one old man."
Green Cove is staring fixedly at Ten River Wind. Just in case he wants to run. Non-running pirates just aren't any fun, really.
Ten River Wind seems a little intimidated (belatedly, perhaps) by the scrutiny of Green Cove and her tiger; he doesn't seem to want to so much as twitch.
Sado Yasutora to Storyteller: What time is it?
Storyteller says "Hrm. Maybe noon."
Yoru clarifies his earlier question. "Do we involve ourselves in this any further? Or do we leave it in Pale Soul Shadow's hands and take the villagers home?"
Sado Yasutora finishes his prayers over the deceased and rises, looking out towards the west, and lets the full rays of the sun, standing at its zenith, illuminate his giant golden armor. He takes his time, letting the Essence of Sol Invictus in pride and majesty touch him, his Caste to this moment. Still looking towards the east, his quiet voice begins to rumble through the Unyielding Bastion's speakers, he addresses the remaining barbarians. "In the days to come, you may remember this as Ten River Wind's defeat, or you may come to look at it as your own victory. Seen through his blindness, this is a repetition of his own credo-- the mighty overruling those who are less than themselves. But down that road, following that extinguished lantern, you will find only darkness, no matter how brilliant the noontime Sun. No one holds onto might forever. Age, time, fate-- these things will conspire against even Exalted. They will do so against you a hundredfold in turn. But honor, dignity, and justice, these things will last. If you are slain tomorrow, your might is gone forever. Your sons and daughters will have to build it again for themselves, losing more of what makes them human, what -truly- gives them strength, each time. But if you use your time, your strength, to build a house of words, compassion, and honor, it will outlast you all. If you work with those who do not have your military might, but who make things, shape them, grow crops and build houses, your legacy will last beyond the moment, and when you are gone, your sons and daughters will be able to rely on THAT strength, forever."
Sado Yasutora turns towards the huts and those barbarians who are left standing. "Any judgment given today stands as nothing before the merciless truth of time. What you build against time's winds is up to you." He then tilts the Unyielding Bastion around and marches towards Allen and the old man. "I am ready to take up my burden again, my brother. I thank you for that," and then he bows to the old man, "And I thank you for your indulgence in the matters that distracted me from my duty to you," he finishes.
Yoru nods in agreement with the Zenith's powerful words. Or at least outwardly agreeing with him. He will remain near the refugees however, giving a hug here or some support there should the women need it.
Green Cove wanders about the horse idly, with occasional annoyed glares at the man tied there. No one wants her to have any fun, today.
Pale Soul Shadow, still leading the horse with its burden, translates for the Zenith. He bows slightly after Yasutora finishes his speech, and quietly asks the Circle, "Will you pass judgement on them?"
Allen nods approvingly at Sado's speech, and smiles as he gently hands over the old man. "He is not so much of a burden," Allen says quietly, "but an honour. Thank you for entrusting him to me, my friend."
As the old man is passed from Exalt to Exalt, the child who is so protective of him moves shadows one then the other. The old man, for his part, inclines his head to Yasutora, and apologizes for being a burden.
Sado Yasutora holds the old man carefully and nods gravely to him. "I am honored, sir," he says, and then turns to Green Cove, Allen, and Yoru in reference to Pale Soul Shadow's question. "What say you?" he asks the three of them. "To me, I am inclined to have them work fields or as caravan guards for a season, but I do not know if it will come off as a lesson on the value of labor, or as a humiliation. I would rather that they look upon the people of the town as allies and friends."
Yoru glances at Yasutora and hrms. Patting the woman he was comforting he hands her off to another and heads towards his Circle. "Making them work would probably be seen as humiliation." He looks towards Allen. "You walked among barbarians you said, have you any insight in how they might come to a better relationship with the townsfolk?"
The priest interjects, "It would be fitting for them to pay some reparation; I would tell the townsfolk that the tribute is rescinded for this season and make them pay it, but," he nods towards the Solars, "...I believe that you may have other plans in mind for that." His lips twist slightly. "I note that if we are forbidden to ask payment from the town, the tribe must likely move further away for more hunting range, and making them serve as field-hands would mean leaving them nearer the town." He pauses and shrugs. "There's always decimation."
Sado Yasutora looks decidedly uncomfortable. "No more killings unless absolutely necessary. Punishments as per tribal law-- or town law if tribal doesn't cover it-- for the rape, theft, murder, and kidnapping; on an individual basis, not as a group." He looks at Allen hopefully, starting to feel like the young boy he is again.
"Removing them from the vicinity of the town would be a temporary solution, yes," Allen says thoughtfully, "but I cannot think that it would be best in the long run. They need to learn to cultivate the town and the people within. A wolf may prey on sheep, but if it eats too many too quickly, the flock will die out. If you engage in less hostile relations with the town, both groups will prosper, I think." He glances at Yasutora and smiles. "Caravan guards isn't a bad idea in the future, but for now, I would recommend learning how to get along with the townsfolk - you might start by reclassifying the tribute. Townspeople can be quite subject to semantics - if it is called a gift, it will seem less onerous, and if you provide them an actual service in return, I do not foresee more issues arising with them growing desperate enough to call for outside help." He pauses to look firmly around at the barbarians, and adds, "I arrived here because I killed a Dragonblooded of the Realm and read her orders - which were to destroy you all and make the town a Realm subsidiary through their gratitude. If they hear of more problems, they may send more people, next time, and while the Wolf is no doubt mighty, the Realm does not need more chances to expand itself."
Green Cove kicks idly at twigs on the ground, and keeps looking over her shoulder at Ten River Wind. "Ah, the Realm," she murmurs, scornful, but doesn't try to contradict the one who seems to know what he's talking about.
<<OOC>> Yoru says "Is Ten River Wind the only prisoner we have?"
<<OOC>> Leti says "Most the warriors who were with him at the central camp were captured, but they're still back at the central camp under the watchful eyes of THOSE barbarians. The other barbarians at this camp may or may not qualify as prisoners; they're not currently restrained, anyhow."
Yasutora tilts his head towards Green Cove. "You have encountered them before?" he asks politely.
Green Cove lifts and drops one shoulder. "A school of fish is still made up of small, tasty creatures, no matter how big it may be."
The priest spits on the ground at the mention of the Realm. "Our tribe - our honor - owe some debt to the townsfolk for the deeds of ...this scum." He prods the captive.
Yoru listens to Allen's words carefully and after a moment nods. "That does sound like a good plan to help with the overall problem, as seen by the townsfolk. However, it does not deal with Ten River Wind or those who followed him and the crimes they have committed." He pauses and glances at those captured or killed and hrms softly. "We might wish to discuss this with our missing member and leave these here at camp to contemplate matters. Ten River Wind is a different matter and must be watched more carefully, if he is left alive."
Yasutora nods to Green Cove with a slight chuckle, and then turns back to the problem at hand, gently making sure the old man he carries is comfortable. He nods in agreement with Yoru.
<<OOC>> Green Cove was assuming something along those lines. That works!
Pale Soul Shadow nods to Yoru. "There is no need to make any decisions about their fate at this instant, and I am sure the captive," he gestures vaguely at the recently freed townspeople, "would rather not spend any longer here."
Yasutora nods again and turns back towards the prisoners, still gently carrying the old man. "I believe that the priest is correct; do you wish to return to your homes now?" he inquires softly.
There is a general murmur of assent from the freed people - except the barbarians, who have come to stand behind Pale Soul Shadow, relieved at his presence. The old man says, "A return to Whitewater Bend would be most welcome, sir."
Yoru looks back to Ten River Wind and the horse he is strapped to. "I say we haul this deluded airhead back to town and offer him up to the townsfolk for them to judge. We can meet up with Shai and then discuss the rest of this complication that we have been lead to."
Green Cove bounces to her feet from an examination of bits of ground foliage. "I'll lead the horse," she says. "Maybe he'll try to run away as we go."
Yasutora hmmms. "If Green Cove and Allen accede, as the tribe is Green Cove's and the victory Allen's," he says turning a glance towards the pair. "Meanwhile, I will begin organizing those who were freed to leave," he finishes, and begins to trudge over towards the villagers with the old man, to make sure everyone who was there and is not known to be killed is among the villagers, and that there is nothing they left behind in the pits.
Allen nods. "I think that, as his crimes victimized the townsfolk more than the tribe - though they were certainly not uninjured by him - that is a reasonable solution there."
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "I think so. On the way, Yasutora is going to ask the old man a little bit about himself-- his name, his job, the young boy's name, etc.-- but I figure we can just abstract that to basic information, once Yoru's done with what he wishes to do. :)"
Yoru turns towards Pale Soul Shadow and comments. "I trust you will keep them in line while we are gone. I would hate to have to watch them..." Turning to the rest of the camp he points to his eyes and then at the barbarians left in camp. With a flair of his coat he turns and walks away from the camp, disappearing as he activates Unseen Ghost Walk.
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "... Hee. _Nice_, dude."
<<OOC>> Leti says "Ahh, that's what a Night is for. The eyes of the Unconquered Sun what?"
<<OOC>> Yoru says "Okay then 0=)"
<<OOC>> Shai hee!
<<OOC>> Green Cove heh.
<<OOC>> Yoru will meet up with the others outside camp.
Pale Soul Shadow gives a slight bow towards Yoru. "I will, indeed, watch them." He seems relieved not to be asked to accompany them to the town.
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "So, abstract walking and jawing and then we get to tell Shai that she's been married to Pale Soul Shadow as a part of the settlement."
<<OOC>> Shai SNRK.
Leti [to Yasutora]: The old man will introduce himself as Chomei Dosan, tutor to 'young Hana' as he refers to the child. What all will Yasutora be asking, because Dosan will not volunteer too much information without specific requests?
Yasutora [to Leti]: Oh-- hmm. He mainly wants to find out...
Yasutora [to Green Cove]: I don't suppose you bought any Investigation, did you? >_<
Yasutora [to Leti]: He mainly wants to find out why the barbarians kidnapped an old man and a boy-- if it was for ransom, or something-- without offending either of them, and finding out if there's going to be some sort of Problem in the future. But he wants to do it gently-- so, untrained as he is, he'll probably mainly stumble around the issue for a while before giving up and asking Shai for help.
Green Cove [to Yasutora]: ...hahaha. No.
It is a strange parade that sets out west, for the town; the tiger wanders around between Green Cove (where she peers hungrily at the 'pirate' bound on the horse) and the front of the column; the refugees move at varying paces - some far ahead and others working hard to keep up (though they are all capable of keeping up, except the old man who is already provided for), and the Circle, of course, is ...unusual. As you reach the fields, there are definite shouts and a certain celebration from the fieldhands who note the returning captives; the column grows as you proceed towards the city, and a cart or two joins you, turned aside from its purpose in the field and carrying some of the more tired rescuees.
Shai, waiting near the east gate for the return of the Circle, hears that they're coming from a farm-hand who runs through the gate, telling everyone he can see that some people have been rescued.
Yasutora continues his running conversation with the old man and the boy, saying, "You are his tutor, then, Chomei Dosan?" He turns down to the boy and smiles, though it is concealed by his helmet. "So what does your father do?" he asks, hoping that he does not sound like a young boy trying to sound like a man Which, er, is what he is, but that's not the point.
Shai adjusts the bow and quiver slung across her back, and waits until the caravan comes into view; no reason to race to meet them when it sounds like they're doing fine. When she does see the caravan, she boggles mildly, but waves at the Circle if she can see them.
Yoru walks along rather silently, though the more aware of people might note he has taken a few sips from a wineskin he has hidden in his long coat. He will smile at those who pass by but mainly he stays unobtrusive.
Dosan nods. "It is my privilege. Hana is an excellent student."
The child peers way up at the armor, half trips over a rut in the road, regains footing, and then answers, "He sails ships."
<<OOC>> Leti says "And about then, you all reach the gate. :)"
Yasutora chuckles quietly. "Truly? Is he a captain? One of my sisters, who we are coming here to meet, is a captain herself, but any sailor is honorable under heaven, for, I am told, the sea is as risky as the Deep Wyld," he responds, unable to keep a hint of a thrill from his voice. Upon seeing Shai's wave, his tone brightens considerably. "And there she is now, the pretty short woman carrying a wrapped bow and quiver-- with the white-blond hair."
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Of course, to Yasutora, 'short' has a different meaning."
<<OOC>> Leti says "Under 9 feet tall = Short, right?"
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "He admits 8'!"
Shai wanders over to whichever Circle-member is nearest, glancing bemusedly over the caravan. "I take it things went well?"
Most of the rescuees who are residents of the city give effusive thanks to the Circle, a couple bowing politely in the process, and then scatter towards their own homes and families.
"Sometimes he is," answers Hana. The child turns to peer at Shai.
Yoru nods politely to the offered bows, provided any are given to him, and he makes his way to intercept Shai. Her he greets with a smile and a quip, "We come bearing gifts." Winking he waves towards the horse that Green Cove and Floating Leaf are guarding.
Green Cove saunters along, occasionally pausing to investigate a flower or scratch Floating Leaf behind the ears.
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "I figured that we were all hanging with Green Cove and her hopefully-not-to-be-tiger-chow prisoner."
Shai is intercepted! And peers in the direction of the wave, then laughs. "Some gift, but I'll take that as a yes anyway. Gift for whom, though?" And will continue on till she's with the rest of the Circle, unless Yoru stops her.
Yoru travels with Shai to the rest of the Circle and their 'gift'. "As it stands now, we were going to give him to the townsfolk for judgement."
<<OOC>> Leti says "Are you all going to head for Zahen's place?"
Shai purses her lips. "Mm, probably not a bad idea..." She nods cheerfully to the rest of the Circle, and blinks at the peering small child, but nods to him too after a moment.
<<OOC>> Shai says "Sounds good to me."
There is dark muttering from the townsfolk at the captured barbarian. As you pause outside the gates, the farmhands who followed you through the fields collect spoiled produce and stones, and a few pebbles are thrown in his general direction, though not straight at him, as the onlookers gather their courage.
<<OOC>> Leti says "The Realm has a pretty powerful educational system for the rich and privileged."
Yasutora looks up from where his walk has slowed so as not to trample any of the surrounding townsfolk. "I believe I will accompany Hana and Chomei Dosan back to their domicile, so that they can rest well. I will meet with you all soon afterwards at Zahen's?"
Shai frowns vaguely at the stones, but decides not to comment, instead nodding to Yasutora. "I think that's fine."
Dosan shakes his head slightly. "It is good of you to offer, sir," he says, "but Hana and I are not natives of Whitewater Bend. However, I'm sure if you would be kind enough to deliver us to the dock or find someone with a cart who would be willing to take us there, we can find passage home."
Yasutora blinks, quietly, beneath his helm. "Where are you from, if I may ask?"
As a stone bounces near Yoru's feet, he glances at one of the stone throwers who wasn't so good with his aim. Dismissing the man with a glare he nods in agreement. "Be well until we meet again," he says to the giant one.
Shai twitches an eyebrow at mention of the docks, and waits curiously for Dosan's response.
<<OOC>> Leti says "If you need to go off screen, Brian, you can take them down to the dock; if you don't need to, one of the people with a cart that helped the other rescuees reach the city will probably be willing to take them down to the riverfront."
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Let me take them to the docks; I do need a little time to get things organized up here. I'll pose out once we have his response, then start to march off."
Green Cove catches one of the flying rocks, and examines it for a moment. Then, having decided it's nothing interesting, she helpfully chucks it at the tied-up barbarian. She's reasonably sure it's impolite to interfere with these sorts of things without good cause.
Dosan pauses briefly, before answering. "Hana's father was last stationed near Sijan."
<<OOC>> Yoru says "They are going to call the cops on us, get 'em!"
Some of the rockthrowers are intimidated by Yoru, slinking off, but others are emboldened by Green Cove; a handful of stones and rotten produce with more sure aim comes flying at the prisoner; the horse shies to the side and the barbarian mutters curses.
Yasutora nods to Dosan, taking a moment to appreciate Green Cove's reflexes (not jealous, really), before beginning to march down towards the docks. "Then I will escort you down myself, for I have promised to see you safely through to young Hana, and a Zenith keeps his promises," he says in a (hopefully) grave voice. He nods to his companions once more, and begins to march off towards the docks, asking, "Stationed, really? Is he with a navy?"
Green Cove grabs the horse's harness as it shies, and speaks soothingly to it. (It's perhaps just as well the horse can't understand what she's saying.)
Shai blinks mildly at the name -- and then gets distracted by the throwers. With a frown for the throwers, she steps over reflexively to grab the horse's reins and steady it.
Allen clears his throat. "Green Cove, we've brought him to be judged, not mobbed. Please do not encourage them." He casts his gaze over the crowd. "You will have your chance to decide what to do with this man, but until we have turned him over to your authorities, he is my responsibility as my capture. Stop."
Huh? (Type "help" for help.)
In the face of more disapproval (this from the Dawn, whose scars and heavy arm indicate that he's probably not the world's gentlest person), the rocks stop, as the remaining members of the Circle proceed towards Zahen's house. The merchant greets you at the door.
Green Cove focuses wide eyes on Allen. "I am not mobbing him," she explains, patiently. "But it's not polite to interrupt someone without then letting them get back to what they were doing."
Shai murmurs to Cove, "But if you finish it for them, it looks like you're encouraging it, and that's bad." She gives the horse's mane a tentative stroke, then lets go of the reins once it seems calm, nodding politely to Zahen when they arrive.
Yoru stares at Green Cove and keeps himself from chuckling at her odd notions. Must look solemn and professional in front of the one who hired them. He nods to the man and hopes one of the more social of the Circle will speak to him.
Allen simply stares at Green Cove with an expression that can't seem to decide whether it wants to be disbelief or confusion.
"My friends," Zahen greets you with a small bow, and interrupts himself. "...The Zenith ...Yasutora... is not with you? Is all well? I have been told that you rescued some of my fellow townsfolk, and rumors are beginning to fly about the state of the barbarians." His eyes flick to the prisoner.
"Yasutora is well; he is helping a pair of freed captives who need some extra assistance to their homes," Allen says quietly, looking away from Green Cove. "As for the barbarians, we discovered that the majority had nothing to do with the capturing of your fellow townsfolk - and the man on the horse behind us was the leader of the group which was. We have brought him back to be judged."
Shai nods in support of Allen's words, and watches their effect on Zahen in particular.
Yoru remains quiet as well, diverting his attention between Zahen and their prisoner. This would be a 'fine' time for him to get loose and cause trouble.
<<OOC>> Green Cove hugs her tiger. Who's her favorite bloodthirsty cuddly killing machine of whimsy? You are!
<<OOC>> Floating Leaf licks Green Cove's cheek. Who's her favorite bloodthirsty cuddly killing machine of whimsy?
Zahen nods. "They are all still barbarians," he says, "But the ringleader; this is welcome." He frowns slightly. "I do not have the authority to deal personally with him; we all have responsibility for a segment of the city, and crimes which take place outside the city by those who are not citizens can only be dealt with by the council as a whole. My men will take him to a holding cell while an emergency session is called, if you please."
Shai clears her throat, and says, mildly, "It'll need to be a secure cell, or else at least one of us should likely stand watch. This one is Outcaste -- Air, as I recall."
Yoru nods to Zahen. "There are still barbarians, yes, and we do have ideas about certain arrangements that might be made, but this," he gestures at Ten River Wind, "should come first."
Zahen pauses, and looks again at the captive. "Ah. I am afraid it makes me a bad host, but I can not ask my men to watch one of the dragon-blooded. I pay them to risk their lives, but within reason."
Green Cove smiles. "Leaf and I would watch him. He hasn't run yet. He's no fun at all."
Shai nods agreeably to Zahen -- and coughs at Green Leaf. She asks the merchant, "Where did you intend to hold him? I suspect we wouldn't mind keeping an eye on him during your council, though Yasutora would need to be informed."
"I will watch him. I believe he will remember well how I brought him down," Allen says, shrugging. "Would it be possible for Shai to sit in on your council? Ah, if you would be willing, sister."
<<OOC>> Allen says ". . . Allen wants to make sure someone reasonable is on there so they don't, like, decide to peel him slowly or something."
<<OOC>> Yoru says "What about staking him out in the sun, is that doable?"
The outcaste gives Green Cove a particularly nasty glare.
Green Cove has a very bright smile for the man. It shows her teeth.
Floating Leaf also smiles at the man; it shows HER teeth.
Zahen says, "We have a council chamber in the town hall; the guardhouse here," (he gestures to a small stone building near his residence) has a holding cell, but I would not ask you to remain there to watch him. As things are, perhaps it would be best if you all accompanied me to the hall and we simply waited for the meeting? He is not much of a threat with you present, is he?"
Zahen smiles. "Oh, yes. Council meetings are traditionally open. You may all be present. I suspect there will be quite an audience turn out, indeed."
Shai gives the rest of the group a considering look at Allen's suggestion, and starts to respond -- then chuckles quietly and nods at Zahen's suggestion. "No, he isn't, and I believe that arrangement would work best. Though... I suspect we should find an alternative means of transport for him, and let the poor horse have a rest. Yasutora would likely suit, when he returns..."
Zahen nods. "I will have the servants prepare drinks and light foods to take with us."
Shai smiles at Zahen. "Thank you."
Yoru smiles at Zahen. "That would be appreciated."
Green Cove stands on one leg, and examines the sole of her other boot for any rocks in the treads. Approaching snacks are good.
<<OOC>> Leti says "I thought you brought your own?"
<<OOC>> Green Cove says "No, no, that's dinner."
<<OOC>> Green Cove says "It's time for appetizers!"
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Don't encourage her. :P"
Floating Leaf silently asks Green Cove if the merchant is going to have treats for her, too.
Green Cove leans over to the tiger (still on one foot) and murmurs back, "Don't worry, I'll share."
A couple of servants exit the residence with baskets of food and drinks; Zahen nods. "Shall we go, then? I have sent some of my men to alert the other council members; it should not be too long before they arrive, and you can have some refreshment while we wait."
Shai suggests, "Leave a messenger here for our fifth? He was going to come back here once he was done. Refreshment sounds very good, though." She smiles.
Yasutora begins to march up the street towards Zahen's house, the audible THUNKhissTHUNKhissTHUNKhiss of the Unyielding Bastion coming in loud and strong.
Zahen says, "I will do so..." he pauses and glances down the street, "...or, if my ears are correct, that will not be necessary."
Shai glances in that direction, blinks, and laughs. "Perfect timing!"
Yoru glances at the servants and asks for some wine or any other sort of spirits they might have available.
<<OOC>> Yoru pats Shai and knows about sleep troubles.
One of the servants has a bottle of wine available, and offers a cup thereof to Yoru.
Yoru thanks the servant and gladly accepts the beverage. "A good vintage," he says after his first sip. "Thank you."
Green Cove stalks forward to see if there's anything tasty among the snacks, or anything recently dead for Leaf.
Zahen walks towards the street, followed by one of the servants and the captain of his guards, the man who gave you the briefing on the barbarian camps. The other servant starts to follow, but pauses to show Green Cove the contents of his basket, casting wary eyes at the tiger meanwhile.
Yasutora waves vigorously to the Circle. "Did you know, they were from Lookshy? They said they would ask after my parents!" he says rapidly.
Shai adjusts her bow, absently, and waves back at Yasutora, like, 'this way!' She blinks at the comment, surprised. "Lookshy?"
Yoru smiles at Yasutora and gives him a toast. "To your parents then. May they hear of your good deeds and rejoice."
<<OOC>> Leti says "As pretty much everyone, possibly excepting GC (your call; you sailed right past it, so if she was curious, one of the sailors would have told her about it) will know, Lookshy is about the only military force in Creation that has stood up to the Realm throughout the Second Age. It's got its own variety of the Immaculate faith, lots of high tech (for this age) weaponry, and a strong DB population on its own."
<<OOC>> Green Cove doesn't keep track of unimportant things like city names. Might remember what its shores were like if someone describes 'em...
<<OOC>> Leti says "You can't have missed it. Big, artificially constructed walls right out into the water."
<<OOC>> Leti says "First Age construction."
<<OOC>> Green Cove says "Yeah, that she'd remember. ("You walk right up across the ocean to them, and can't get inside without knocking. Strange.")"
Shai considers a moment, then shrugs and smiles. "Probably a good thing. I wish them luck. --Ah, apparently dealing with Ten River Wind is going to require a council meeting. We'll be sitting in on it, and keeping an eye on him--" she nods to the captive "--while we're there."
Yasutora nods deeply. "I thank you all," he says happily and eagerly to everyone. "I see." He nods gravely to Ten River Wind. "It is time for such things."
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Yup!"
After his toast to Yasutora's parents, Yoru goes over to the golden boy. "Since we will be heading indoors, and it is already a bit troublesome to carry him on the horse, we were hoping you might take over carrying our prisoner."
Yasutora nods amiably to Yoru. "Of course, my brother," he says calmly, leaning over to sling Ten River Wind up onto his shoulder-- with, surprisingly, nearly as much gentleness as when he carried the old man in his arms. "So, now that you are about to face a trial for your life, I wonder if you have properly considered the philosophy you expounded earlier," he tells Ten River Wind's feet.
Zahen's home is not far from the hall he mentioned; it is a fairly utilitarian looking stone building, with large steps leading up to the front entrance.
Shai discreetly waves one of the servants who's not carrying too much over, and suggests that the horse be taken off and stabled, once it's unburdened. She shields her eyes, peering up the stairs, and heads in when the rest of the group does.
Ten River Wind thrashes a bit as he is moved from the horse to the Zenith's shoulder, but it seems more pure panic than an thoughtful attempt to escape, and Pale Soul Shadow obviously knows how to tie knots, because there's little effect to the air-aspect's efforts. He seems fairly shocky, having gone from 'king of the world' to 'doomed prisoner' over the course of a morning.
<<OOC>> Shai says "...Solars have that effect on people. [snickers]"
Green Cove skips along behind Yasutora, close enough to the man's dangling head that she could kick it without breaking stride. (Granted, it would have to be a very high kick.)
Yoru follows along quietly sipping at his wine. He smirks at Ten River Wind's thrashing. If he could reach he might pat the man on the shoulder but as it is he merely raises his beverage in another toast to the man.
The horse is led back towards Zahen's stable; Zahen leads you into a large room with a table at the head and long benches across the rest of the room. His servants spread out the contents of their baskets (those which have survived the trip) at one end of the table.
"It will probably be a half an hour before everyone arrives," Zahen says, "Please, enjoy the refreshments and tell me about what occurred in the barbarian camp."
<<OOC>> Leti says "Green Cove, please roll your Essence rating. >_>"
<<OOC>> Shai ...fears.
Yasutora continues to discuss the matter with Ten River Wind as they walk up and into the courthouse. Most of it is quotations from, of all things, Dragon-Blooded manuals on the responsible use of power, especially military-- old Lookshy ones. He earnestly, if somewhat quietly, explains the texts from the memory of his childhood (okay, his EARLIER childhood) as best he can on the way in.
<<DICE>> Green Cove rolls 2 dice: <4 10> for 2 successes.
Shai quirks an eyebrow at Yasutora's discussion, but assumes the Zenith has things well in hand. She drifts over to the refreshments, sorting through the food for something interesting, and waits for someone else to explain the barbarian thing. Since, well, she missed the second half...
Leti [to Green Cove]: As the food is spread out, you feel a sudden jolt of terror - and then, with the realization that this is not your emotion, but one coming from someplace - and someone - else, it recedes; you can still detect the fear, but it's not acting /on you/.
<<OOC>> Shai ...meep. o.o
Green Cove pauses in the middle of reaching forward to swipe a snack, and glares about her, searching for whatever might be causing this sudden foreign emotion. "Leaf," she says, "did you feel that?"
<<OOC>> Leti innocents at people cheerfully.
Yoru listens in briefly on Yasutora's discussion. He doesn't seem so interested in it however and settles himself in on a bench. Barring anyone else taking up the task he will give an overview of what happened at the camps, leaving out the part about the hidden workshop. Yoru will also mention that the Circle has some thoughts on how the Barbarians and the Townsfolk can get along in a more amiable fashion.
Ten River Wind finally growls a response to Yasutora, "Save your breath," he advises in Rivertongue (far better than any of the other barbarians speak the trade tongue), "these weaklings are sure to demand my death, and your exhortations to repentance are useless."
Leti [to Green Cove]: As quickly as it came, the fear slides into a sense of exultation; it tastes, to your mind, much like the thrill of battle... and then fades away, leaving you with only your own thoughts and emotions.
Shai blinks over at the glaring Twilight. "Something happen?" She twitches a hand toward her bow, listening with half an ear to Yoru's story.
Yasutora calmly tells Ten River Wind, "If you learn more of your heritage, and become the man and exalt you are not yet, perhaps they will see to some form of mercy. If not, perhaps you will learn-- next time." His tone changes as Green Cove speaks, and he turns to regard her. "Is something amiss, my sister?" the giant inquires.
Green Cove glowers about. "Someone's in my guts," she says to Shai. "Fear that wasn't mine. Victory that wasn't mine. I shouldn't be feeling it. Therefore, it belongs to someone else. I don't know who."
Zahen sounds dubious about the idea of getting along with barbarians.
Shai looks concerned, and a little bemused. "..._strange_. I've never run into anything like that... Do you have any idea how?"
Yoru pauses in his story telling to glance at Green Cove.
Green Cove frowns, almost petulant. "No. I don't know. I don't like it."
"The Realm takes advantages of weaknesses, my host," Allen says, leaning forwards. "In this state, your town is a weakness in the defenses of Nexus. If you can achieve a truce with the barbarians, and work out a deal satisfactory to both groups, the Realm will have nothing to exploit."
Shai reaches out to squeeze Green Cove's shoulder comfortingly. "We'll have to figure out how it happened, then. Maybe it's just a once-off thing?" She glances over at Allen's comment, and nods, calmly.
Residents of the city begin drifting in; some of the people you freed from the barbarian camp come in. They take seats on the long benches at the lower end of the hall.
Zahen frowns. "The Realm? What do they want..."
Zahen shakes his head. "This, I'm afraid, should be discussed with the full council."
Yoru nods towards Zahen. "They want you as part of them. It is a distressing matter, but perhaps one to be brought up after this *waves at Yasutora's load* is dealt with."
"Ah, where would it be appropriate for us to sit?" Shai inquires, noting the observers.
Yasutora nods gravely to Zahen, and then looks around. "Excuse me, Ten River Wind," he says politely. "I need to check something." He concentrates for a moment, and prays to the Least God of the Unyielding Bastion, requesting via the sanctified code-phrases for Essence Sight to turn on, the steady blipping flash of his visor indicating the return of his caste mark.
Green Cove frowns, but goes back to reaching for snacks. "Maybe so."
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "3 motes, gives me about a minute of seeing despite weather conditions and seeing non-cloaked-against-essence-sight-invisible thingies."
<<OOC>> Leti says "Assuming Yoru is visible, there is nothing particularly invisible present. ^^ Green Cove looks just as she always does."
Yasutora says "There is nothing -here- besides us. Odd."
Shai murmurs, "Interesting."
Zahen nods to Shai. "Here at this end of the table will be appropriate. You are honored guests and witnesses; I fully expect you will be asked to speak during the meeting.
Green Cove says, around a mouthful of something reasonably tasty (table manners? what table manners?), "Maybe it already left. I'm not feeling those things anymore."
Shai smiles at Zahen, and nods. "Of course." She claims a seat, and gestures to Green Cove, like, 'sit by me?'
Green Cove takes a seat next to Shai.
<<OOC>> Leti says "Well. Unless people have more IC discussion before the meeting...?"
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Not much from me."
<<OOC>> Leti says "It's probably a good spot to pause before I introduce the NEXT complications."
<<OOC>> Shai says "I think Shai's good. --yaaaaaaaay more complications! [grins]"
<<OOC>> Yoru doesn't think so. I'll be happy to go over stuff OOC. I'm not sure what way Yoru will lean on sentencing yet.
<<OOC>> Green Cove is up for pausing.
<<OOC>> Allen says "Willing to pause. I'm a bit fuzzy. <3"
<<OOC>> Yoru hopes this complication at least lets them regain essence. I getting low :/
<<OOC>> Leti says "You will have started regenerating during the walk back towards town."
<<OOC>> Leti says "At 'leisurely stroll' rates."
<<OOC>> Yoru had hoped so.
<<OOC>> Leti says "And sitting around here, of course, you're regenerating too. Unless you decide to start a battle, you'll pretty much be regenerating through the council meeting. :)"
<<OOC>> Shai says "About 1m per 15min, I think?"
<<OOC>> Leti says "Yay! Thank you for game, people. I hope everyone enjoyed. ^_^"
<<OOC>> Yoru cheers the regen.
<<OOC>> Yoru has enjoyed too.
<<OOC>> Yasutora had much fun. ^_^
Leti says "4 xp for all."
Yoru glances at Ten River Wind and then at the priest. Turning to whichever of his Circle is closest he asks, "Do we involve ourselves with this?"
Storyteller says "You've rescued a bunch of farm hands, a several barbarians - probably people who crossed Ten River Wind - a few merchants from elsewhere, and one little kid and one old man."
Green Cove is staring fixedly at Ten River Wind. Just in case he wants to run. Non-running pirates just aren't any fun, really.
Ten River Wind seems a little intimidated (belatedly, perhaps) by the scrutiny of Green Cove and her tiger; he doesn't seem to want to so much as twitch.
Sado Yasutora to Storyteller: What time is it?
Storyteller says "Hrm. Maybe noon."
Yoru clarifies his earlier question. "Do we involve ourselves in this any further? Or do we leave it in Pale Soul Shadow's hands and take the villagers home?"
Sado Yasutora finishes his prayers over the deceased and rises, looking out towards the west, and lets the full rays of the sun, standing at its zenith, illuminate his giant golden armor. He takes his time, letting the Essence of Sol Invictus in pride and majesty touch him, his Caste to this moment. Still looking towards the east, his quiet voice begins to rumble through the Unyielding Bastion's speakers, he addresses the remaining barbarians. "In the days to come, you may remember this as Ten River Wind's defeat, or you may come to look at it as your own victory. Seen through his blindness, this is a repetition of his own credo-- the mighty overruling those who are less than themselves. But down that road, following that extinguished lantern, you will find only darkness, no matter how brilliant the noontime Sun. No one holds onto might forever. Age, time, fate-- these things will conspire against even Exalted. They will do so against you a hundredfold in turn. But honor, dignity, and justice, these things will last. If you are slain tomorrow, your might is gone forever. Your sons and daughters will have to build it again for themselves, losing more of what makes them human, what -truly- gives them strength, each time. But if you use your time, your strength, to build a house of words, compassion, and honor, it will outlast you all. If you work with those who do not have your military might, but who make things, shape them, grow crops and build houses, your legacy will last beyond the moment, and when you are gone, your sons and daughters will be able to rely on THAT strength, forever."
Sado Yasutora turns towards the huts and those barbarians who are left standing. "Any judgment given today stands as nothing before the merciless truth of time. What you build against time's winds is up to you." He then tilts the Unyielding Bastion around and marches towards Allen and the old man. "I am ready to take up my burden again, my brother. I thank you for that," and then he bows to the old man, "And I thank you for your indulgence in the matters that distracted me from my duty to you," he finishes.
Yoru nods in agreement with the Zenith's powerful words. Or at least outwardly agreeing with him. He will remain near the refugees however, giving a hug here or some support there should the women need it.
Green Cove wanders about the horse idly, with occasional annoyed glares at the man tied there. No one wants her to have any fun, today.
Pale Soul Shadow, still leading the horse with its burden, translates for the Zenith. He bows slightly after Yasutora finishes his speech, and quietly asks the Circle, "Will you pass judgement on them?"
Allen nods approvingly at Sado's speech, and smiles as he gently hands over the old man. "He is not so much of a burden," Allen says quietly, "but an honour. Thank you for entrusting him to me, my friend."
As the old man is passed from Exalt to Exalt, the child who is so protective of him moves shadows one then the other. The old man, for his part, inclines his head to Yasutora, and apologizes for being a burden.
Sado Yasutora holds the old man carefully and nods gravely to him. "I am honored, sir," he says, and then turns to Green Cove, Allen, and Yoru in reference to Pale Soul Shadow's question. "What say you?" he asks the three of them. "To me, I am inclined to have them work fields or as caravan guards for a season, but I do not know if it will come off as a lesson on the value of labor, or as a humiliation. I would rather that they look upon the people of the town as allies and friends."
Yoru glances at Yasutora and hrms. Patting the woman he was comforting he hands her off to another and heads towards his Circle. "Making them work would probably be seen as humiliation." He looks towards Allen. "You walked among barbarians you said, have you any insight in how they might come to a better relationship with the townsfolk?"
The priest interjects, "It would be fitting for them to pay some reparation; I would tell the townsfolk that the tribute is rescinded for this season and make them pay it, but," he nods towards the Solars, "...I believe that you may have other plans in mind for that." His lips twist slightly. "I note that if we are forbidden to ask payment from the town, the tribe must likely move further away for more hunting range, and making them serve as field-hands would mean leaving them nearer the town." He pauses and shrugs. "There's always decimation."
Sado Yasutora looks decidedly uncomfortable. "No more killings unless absolutely necessary. Punishments as per tribal law-- or town law if tribal doesn't cover it-- for the rape, theft, murder, and kidnapping; on an individual basis, not as a group." He looks at Allen hopefully, starting to feel like the young boy he is again.
"Removing them from the vicinity of the town would be a temporary solution, yes," Allen says thoughtfully, "but I cannot think that it would be best in the long run. They need to learn to cultivate the town and the people within. A wolf may prey on sheep, but if it eats too many too quickly, the flock will die out. If you engage in less hostile relations with the town, both groups will prosper, I think." He glances at Yasutora and smiles. "Caravan guards isn't a bad idea in the future, but for now, I would recommend learning how to get along with the townsfolk - you might start by reclassifying the tribute. Townspeople can be quite subject to semantics - if it is called a gift, it will seem less onerous, and if you provide them an actual service in return, I do not foresee more issues arising with them growing desperate enough to call for outside help." He pauses to look firmly around at the barbarians, and adds, "I arrived here because I killed a Dragonblooded of the Realm and read her orders - which were to destroy you all and make the town a Realm subsidiary through their gratitude. If they hear of more problems, they may send more people, next time, and while the Wolf is no doubt mighty, the Realm does not need more chances to expand itself."
Green Cove kicks idly at twigs on the ground, and keeps looking over her shoulder at Ten River Wind. "Ah, the Realm," she murmurs, scornful, but doesn't try to contradict the one who seems to know what he's talking about.
<<OOC>> Yoru says "Is Ten River Wind the only prisoner we have?"
<<OOC>> Leti says "Most the warriors who were with him at the central camp were captured, but they're still back at the central camp under the watchful eyes of THOSE barbarians. The other barbarians at this camp may or may not qualify as prisoners; they're not currently restrained, anyhow."
Yasutora tilts his head towards Green Cove. "You have encountered them before?" he asks politely.
Green Cove lifts and drops one shoulder. "A school of fish is still made up of small, tasty creatures, no matter how big it may be."
The priest spits on the ground at the mention of the Realm. "Our tribe - our honor - owe some debt to the townsfolk for the deeds of ...this scum." He prods the captive.
Yoru listens to Allen's words carefully and after a moment nods. "That does sound like a good plan to help with the overall problem, as seen by the townsfolk. However, it does not deal with Ten River Wind or those who followed him and the crimes they have committed." He pauses and glances at those captured or killed and hrms softly. "We might wish to discuss this with our missing member and leave these here at camp to contemplate matters. Ten River Wind is a different matter and must be watched more carefully, if he is left alive."
Yasutora nods to Green Cove with a slight chuckle, and then turns back to the problem at hand, gently making sure the old man he carries is comfortable. He nods in agreement with Yoru.
<<OOC>> Green Cove was assuming something along those lines. That works!
Pale Soul Shadow nods to Yoru. "There is no need to make any decisions about their fate at this instant, and I am sure the captive," he gestures vaguely at the recently freed townspeople, "would rather not spend any longer here."
Yasutora nods again and turns back towards the prisoners, still gently carrying the old man. "I believe that the priest is correct; do you wish to return to your homes now?" he inquires softly.
There is a general murmur of assent from the freed people - except the barbarians, who have come to stand behind Pale Soul Shadow, relieved at his presence. The old man says, "A return to Whitewater Bend would be most welcome, sir."
Yoru looks back to Ten River Wind and the horse he is strapped to. "I say we haul this deluded airhead back to town and offer him up to the townsfolk for them to judge. We can meet up with Shai and then discuss the rest of this complication that we have been lead to."
Green Cove bounces to her feet from an examination of bits of ground foliage. "I'll lead the horse," she says. "Maybe he'll try to run away as we go."
Yasutora hmmms. "If Green Cove and Allen accede, as the tribe is Green Cove's and the victory Allen's," he says turning a glance towards the pair. "Meanwhile, I will begin organizing those who were freed to leave," he finishes, and begins to trudge over towards the villagers with the old man, to make sure everyone who was there and is not known to be killed is among the villagers, and that there is nothing they left behind in the pits.
Allen nods. "I think that, as his crimes victimized the townsfolk more than the tribe - though they were certainly not uninjured by him - that is a reasonable solution there."
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "I think so. On the way, Yasutora is going to ask the old man a little bit about himself-- his name, his job, the young boy's name, etc.-- but I figure we can just abstract that to basic information, once Yoru's done with what he wishes to do. :)"
Yoru turns towards Pale Soul Shadow and comments. "I trust you will keep them in line while we are gone. I would hate to have to watch them..." Turning to the rest of the camp he points to his eyes and then at the barbarians left in camp. With a flair of his coat he turns and walks away from the camp, disappearing as he activates Unseen Ghost Walk.
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "... Hee. _Nice_, dude."
<<OOC>> Leti says "Ahh, that's what a Night is for. The eyes of the Unconquered Sun what?"
<<OOC>> Yoru says "Okay then 0=)"
<<OOC>> Shai hee!
<<OOC>> Green Cove heh.
<<OOC>> Yoru will meet up with the others outside camp.
Pale Soul Shadow gives a slight bow towards Yoru. "I will, indeed, watch them." He seems relieved not to be asked to accompany them to the town.
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "So, abstract walking and jawing and then we get to tell Shai that she's been married to Pale Soul Shadow as a part of the settlement."
<<OOC>> Shai SNRK.
Leti [to Yasutora]: The old man will introduce himself as Chomei Dosan, tutor to 'young Hana' as he refers to the child. What all will Yasutora be asking, because Dosan will not volunteer too much information without specific requests?
Yasutora [to Leti]: Oh-- hmm. He mainly wants to find out...
Yasutora [to Green Cove]: I don't suppose you bought any Investigation, did you? >_<
Yasutora [to Leti]: He mainly wants to find out why the barbarians kidnapped an old man and a boy-- if it was for ransom, or something-- without offending either of them, and finding out if there's going to be some sort of Problem in the future. But he wants to do it gently-- so, untrained as he is, he'll probably mainly stumble around the issue for a while before giving up and asking Shai for help.
Green Cove [to Yasutora]: ...hahaha. No.
It is a strange parade that sets out west, for the town; the tiger wanders around between Green Cove (where she peers hungrily at the 'pirate' bound on the horse) and the front of the column; the refugees move at varying paces - some far ahead and others working hard to keep up (though they are all capable of keeping up, except the old man who is already provided for), and the Circle, of course, is ...unusual. As you reach the fields, there are definite shouts and a certain celebration from the fieldhands who note the returning captives; the column grows as you proceed towards the city, and a cart or two joins you, turned aside from its purpose in the field and carrying some of the more tired rescuees.
Shai, waiting near the east gate for the return of the Circle, hears that they're coming from a farm-hand who runs through the gate, telling everyone he can see that some people have been rescued.
Yasutora continues his running conversation with the old man and the boy, saying, "You are his tutor, then, Chomei Dosan?" He turns down to the boy and smiles, though it is concealed by his helmet. "So what does your father do?" he asks, hoping that he does not sound like a young boy trying to sound like a man Which, er, is what he is, but that's not the point.
Shai adjusts the bow and quiver slung across her back, and waits until the caravan comes into view; no reason to race to meet them when it sounds like they're doing fine. When she does see the caravan, she boggles mildly, but waves at the Circle if she can see them.
Yoru walks along rather silently, though the more aware of people might note he has taken a few sips from a wineskin he has hidden in his long coat. He will smile at those who pass by but mainly he stays unobtrusive.
Dosan nods. "It is my privilege. Hana is an excellent student."
The child peers way up at the armor, half trips over a rut in the road, regains footing, and then answers, "He sails ships."
<<OOC>> Leti says "And about then, you all reach the gate. :)"
Yasutora chuckles quietly. "Truly? Is he a captain? One of my sisters, who we are coming here to meet, is a captain herself, but any sailor is honorable under heaven, for, I am told, the sea is as risky as the Deep Wyld," he responds, unable to keep a hint of a thrill from his voice. Upon seeing Shai's wave, his tone brightens considerably. "And there she is now, the pretty short woman carrying a wrapped bow and quiver-- with the white-blond hair."
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Of course, to Yasutora, 'short' has a different meaning."
<<OOC>> Leti says "Under 9 feet tall = Short, right?"
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "He admits 8'!"
Shai wanders over to whichever Circle-member is nearest, glancing bemusedly over the caravan. "I take it things went well?"
Most of the rescuees who are residents of the city give effusive thanks to the Circle, a couple bowing politely in the process, and then scatter towards their own homes and families.
"Sometimes he is," answers Hana. The child turns to peer at Shai.
Yoru nods politely to the offered bows, provided any are given to him, and he makes his way to intercept Shai. Her he greets with a smile and a quip, "We come bearing gifts." Winking he waves towards the horse that Green Cove and Floating Leaf are guarding.
Green Cove saunters along, occasionally pausing to investigate a flower or scratch Floating Leaf behind the ears.
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "I figured that we were all hanging with Green Cove and her hopefully-not-to-be-tiger-chow prisoner."
Shai is intercepted! And peers in the direction of the wave, then laughs. "Some gift, but I'll take that as a yes anyway. Gift for whom, though?" And will continue on till she's with the rest of the Circle, unless Yoru stops her.
Yoru travels with Shai to the rest of the Circle and their 'gift'. "As it stands now, we were going to give him to the townsfolk for judgement."
<<OOC>> Leti says "Are you all going to head for Zahen's place?"
Shai purses her lips. "Mm, probably not a bad idea..." She nods cheerfully to the rest of the Circle, and blinks at the peering small child, but nods to him too after a moment.
<<OOC>> Shai says "Sounds good to me."
There is dark muttering from the townsfolk at the captured barbarian. As you pause outside the gates, the farmhands who followed you through the fields collect spoiled produce and stones, and a few pebbles are thrown in his general direction, though not straight at him, as the onlookers gather their courage.
<<OOC>> Leti says "The Realm has a pretty powerful educational system for the rich and privileged."
Yasutora looks up from where his walk has slowed so as not to trample any of the surrounding townsfolk. "I believe I will accompany Hana and Chomei Dosan back to their domicile, so that they can rest well. I will meet with you all soon afterwards at Zahen's?"
Shai frowns vaguely at the stones, but decides not to comment, instead nodding to Yasutora. "I think that's fine."
Dosan shakes his head slightly. "It is good of you to offer, sir," he says, "but Hana and I are not natives of Whitewater Bend. However, I'm sure if you would be kind enough to deliver us to the dock or find someone with a cart who would be willing to take us there, we can find passage home."
Yasutora blinks, quietly, beneath his helm. "Where are you from, if I may ask?"
As a stone bounces near Yoru's feet, he glances at one of the stone throwers who wasn't so good with his aim. Dismissing the man with a glare he nods in agreement. "Be well until we meet again," he says to the giant one.
Shai twitches an eyebrow at mention of the docks, and waits curiously for Dosan's response.
<<OOC>> Leti says "If you need to go off screen, Brian, you can take them down to the dock; if you don't need to, one of the people with a cart that helped the other rescuees reach the city will probably be willing to take them down to the riverfront."
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Let me take them to the docks; I do need a little time to get things organized up here. I'll pose out once we have his response, then start to march off."
Green Cove catches one of the flying rocks, and examines it for a moment. Then, having decided it's nothing interesting, she helpfully chucks it at the tied-up barbarian. She's reasonably sure it's impolite to interfere with these sorts of things without good cause.
Dosan pauses briefly, before answering. "Hana's father was last stationed near Sijan."
<<OOC>> Yoru says "They are going to call the cops on us, get 'em!"
Some of the rockthrowers are intimidated by Yoru, slinking off, but others are emboldened by Green Cove; a handful of stones and rotten produce with more sure aim comes flying at the prisoner; the horse shies to the side and the barbarian mutters curses.
Yasutora nods to Dosan, taking a moment to appreciate Green Cove's reflexes (not jealous, really), before beginning to march down towards the docks. "Then I will escort you down myself, for I have promised to see you safely through to young Hana, and a Zenith keeps his promises," he says in a (hopefully) grave voice. He nods to his companions once more, and begins to march off towards the docks, asking, "Stationed, really? Is he with a navy?"
Green Cove grabs the horse's harness as it shies, and speaks soothingly to it. (It's perhaps just as well the horse can't understand what she's saying.)
Shai blinks mildly at the name -- and then gets distracted by the throwers. With a frown for the throwers, she steps over reflexively to grab the horse's reins and steady it.
Allen clears his throat. "Green Cove, we've brought him to be judged, not mobbed. Please do not encourage them." He casts his gaze over the crowd. "You will have your chance to decide what to do with this man, but until we have turned him over to your authorities, he is my responsibility as my capture. Stop."
Huh? (Type "help" for help.)
In the face of more disapproval (this from the Dawn, whose scars and heavy arm indicate that he's probably not the world's gentlest person), the rocks stop, as the remaining members of the Circle proceed towards Zahen's house. The merchant greets you at the door.
Green Cove focuses wide eyes on Allen. "I am not mobbing him," she explains, patiently. "But it's not polite to interrupt someone without then letting them get back to what they were doing."
Shai murmurs to Cove, "But if you finish it for them, it looks like you're encouraging it, and that's bad." She gives the horse's mane a tentative stroke, then lets go of the reins once it seems calm, nodding politely to Zahen when they arrive.
Yoru stares at Green Cove and keeps himself from chuckling at her odd notions. Must look solemn and professional in front of the one who hired them. He nods to the man and hopes one of the more social of the Circle will speak to him.
Allen simply stares at Green Cove with an expression that can't seem to decide whether it wants to be disbelief or confusion.
"My friends," Zahen greets you with a small bow, and interrupts himself. "...The Zenith ...Yasutora... is not with you? Is all well? I have been told that you rescued some of my fellow townsfolk, and rumors are beginning to fly about the state of the barbarians." His eyes flick to the prisoner.
"Yasutora is well; he is helping a pair of freed captives who need some extra assistance to their homes," Allen says quietly, looking away from Green Cove. "As for the barbarians, we discovered that the majority had nothing to do with the capturing of your fellow townsfolk - and the man on the horse behind us was the leader of the group which was. We have brought him back to be judged."
Shai nods in support of Allen's words, and watches their effect on Zahen in particular.
Yoru remains quiet as well, diverting his attention between Zahen and their prisoner. This would be a 'fine' time for him to get loose and cause trouble.
<<OOC>> Green Cove hugs her tiger. Who's her favorite bloodthirsty cuddly killing machine of whimsy? You are!
<<OOC>> Floating Leaf licks Green Cove's cheek. Who's her favorite bloodthirsty cuddly killing machine of whimsy?
Zahen nods. "They are all still barbarians," he says, "But the ringleader; this is welcome." He frowns slightly. "I do not have the authority to deal personally with him; we all have responsibility for a segment of the city, and crimes which take place outside the city by those who are not citizens can only be dealt with by the council as a whole. My men will take him to a holding cell while an emergency session is called, if you please."
Shai clears her throat, and says, mildly, "It'll need to be a secure cell, or else at least one of us should likely stand watch. This one is Outcaste -- Air, as I recall."
Yoru nods to Zahen. "There are still barbarians, yes, and we do have ideas about certain arrangements that might be made, but this," he gestures at Ten River Wind, "should come first."
Zahen pauses, and looks again at the captive. "Ah. I am afraid it makes me a bad host, but I can not ask my men to watch one of the dragon-blooded. I pay them to risk their lives, but within reason."
Green Cove smiles. "Leaf and I would watch him. He hasn't run yet. He's no fun at all."
Shai nods agreeably to Zahen -- and coughs at Green Leaf. She asks the merchant, "Where did you intend to hold him? I suspect we wouldn't mind keeping an eye on him during your council, though Yasutora would need to be informed."
"I will watch him. I believe he will remember well how I brought him down," Allen says, shrugging. "Would it be possible for Shai to sit in on your council? Ah, if you would be willing, sister."
<<OOC>> Allen says ". . . Allen wants to make sure someone reasonable is on there so they don't, like, decide to peel him slowly or something."
<<OOC>> Yoru says "What about staking him out in the sun, is that doable?"
The outcaste gives Green Cove a particularly nasty glare.
Green Cove has a very bright smile for the man. It shows her teeth.
Floating Leaf also smiles at the man; it shows HER teeth.
Zahen says, "We have a council chamber in the town hall; the guardhouse here," (he gestures to a small stone building near his residence) has a holding cell, but I would not ask you to remain there to watch him. As things are, perhaps it would be best if you all accompanied me to the hall and we simply waited for the meeting? He is not much of a threat with you present, is he?"
Zahen smiles. "Oh, yes. Council meetings are traditionally open. You may all be present. I suspect there will be quite an audience turn out, indeed."
Shai gives the rest of the group a considering look at Allen's suggestion, and starts to respond -- then chuckles quietly and nods at Zahen's suggestion. "No, he isn't, and I believe that arrangement would work best. Though... I suspect we should find an alternative means of transport for him, and let the poor horse have a rest. Yasutora would likely suit, when he returns..."
Zahen nods. "I will have the servants prepare drinks and light foods to take with us."
Shai smiles at Zahen. "Thank you."
Yoru smiles at Zahen. "That would be appreciated."
Green Cove stands on one leg, and examines the sole of her other boot for any rocks in the treads. Approaching snacks are good.
<<OOC>> Leti says "I thought you brought your own?"
<<OOC>> Green Cove says "No, no, that's dinner."
<<OOC>> Green Cove says "It's time for appetizers!"
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Don't encourage her. :P"
Floating Leaf silently asks Green Cove if the merchant is going to have treats for her, too.
Green Cove leans over to the tiger (still on one foot) and murmurs back, "Don't worry, I'll share."
A couple of servants exit the residence with baskets of food and drinks; Zahen nods. "Shall we go, then? I have sent some of my men to alert the other council members; it should not be too long before they arrive, and you can have some refreshment while we wait."
Shai suggests, "Leave a messenger here for our fifth? He was going to come back here once he was done. Refreshment sounds very good, though." She smiles.
Yasutora begins to march up the street towards Zahen's house, the audible THUNKhissTHUNKhissTHUNKhiss of the Unyielding Bastion coming in loud and strong.
Zahen says, "I will do so..." he pauses and glances down the street, "...or, if my ears are correct, that will not be necessary."
Shai glances in that direction, blinks, and laughs. "Perfect timing!"
Yoru glances at the servants and asks for some wine or any other sort of spirits they might have available.
<<OOC>> Yoru pats Shai and knows about sleep troubles.
One of the servants has a bottle of wine available, and offers a cup thereof to Yoru.
Yoru thanks the servant and gladly accepts the beverage. "A good vintage," he says after his first sip. "Thank you."
Green Cove stalks forward to see if there's anything tasty among the snacks, or anything recently dead for Leaf.
Zahen walks towards the street, followed by one of the servants and the captain of his guards, the man who gave you the briefing on the barbarian camps. The other servant starts to follow, but pauses to show Green Cove the contents of his basket, casting wary eyes at the tiger meanwhile.
Yasutora waves vigorously to the Circle. "Did you know, they were from Lookshy? They said they would ask after my parents!" he says rapidly.
Shai adjusts her bow, absently, and waves back at Yasutora, like, 'this way!' She blinks at the comment, surprised. "Lookshy?"
Yoru smiles at Yasutora and gives him a toast. "To your parents then. May they hear of your good deeds and rejoice."
<<OOC>> Leti says "As pretty much everyone, possibly excepting GC (your call; you sailed right past it, so if she was curious, one of the sailors would have told her about it) will know, Lookshy is about the only military force in Creation that has stood up to the Realm throughout the Second Age. It's got its own variety of the Immaculate faith, lots of high tech (for this age) weaponry, and a strong DB population on its own."
<<OOC>> Green Cove doesn't keep track of unimportant things like city names. Might remember what its shores were like if someone describes 'em...
<<OOC>> Leti says "You can't have missed it. Big, artificially constructed walls right out into the water."
<<OOC>> Leti says "First Age construction."
<<OOC>> Green Cove says "Yeah, that she'd remember. ("You walk right up across the ocean to them, and can't get inside without knocking. Strange.")"
Shai considers a moment, then shrugs and smiles. "Probably a good thing. I wish them luck. --Ah, apparently dealing with Ten River Wind is going to require a council meeting. We'll be sitting in on it, and keeping an eye on him--" she nods to the captive "--while we're there."
Yasutora nods deeply. "I thank you all," he says happily and eagerly to everyone. "I see." He nods gravely to Ten River Wind. "It is time for such things."
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Yup!"
After his toast to Yasutora's parents, Yoru goes over to the golden boy. "Since we will be heading indoors, and it is already a bit troublesome to carry him on the horse, we were hoping you might take over carrying our prisoner."
Yasutora nods amiably to Yoru. "Of course, my brother," he says calmly, leaning over to sling Ten River Wind up onto his shoulder-- with, surprisingly, nearly as much gentleness as when he carried the old man in his arms. "So, now that you are about to face a trial for your life, I wonder if you have properly considered the philosophy you expounded earlier," he tells Ten River Wind's feet.
Zahen's home is not far from the hall he mentioned; it is a fairly utilitarian looking stone building, with large steps leading up to the front entrance.
Shai discreetly waves one of the servants who's not carrying too much over, and suggests that the horse be taken off and stabled, once it's unburdened. She shields her eyes, peering up the stairs, and heads in when the rest of the group does.
Ten River Wind thrashes a bit as he is moved from the horse to the Zenith's shoulder, but it seems more pure panic than an thoughtful attempt to escape, and Pale Soul Shadow obviously knows how to tie knots, because there's little effect to the air-aspect's efforts. He seems fairly shocky, having gone from 'king of the world' to 'doomed prisoner' over the course of a morning.
<<OOC>> Shai says "...Solars have that effect on people. [snickers]"
Green Cove skips along behind Yasutora, close enough to the man's dangling head that she could kick it without breaking stride. (Granted, it would have to be a very high kick.)
Yoru follows along quietly sipping at his wine. He smirks at Ten River Wind's thrashing. If he could reach he might pat the man on the shoulder but as it is he merely raises his beverage in another toast to the man.
The horse is led back towards Zahen's stable; Zahen leads you into a large room with a table at the head and long benches across the rest of the room. His servants spread out the contents of their baskets (those which have survived the trip) at one end of the table.
"It will probably be a half an hour before everyone arrives," Zahen says, "Please, enjoy the refreshments and tell me about what occurred in the barbarian camp."
<<OOC>> Leti says "Green Cove, please roll your Essence rating. >_>"
<<OOC>> Shai ...fears.
Yasutora continues to discuss the matter with Ten River Wind as they walk up and into the courthouse. Most of it is quotations from, of all things, Dragon-Blooded manuals on the responsible use of power, especially military-- old Lookshy ones. He earnestly, if somewhat quietly, explains the texts from the memory of his childhood (okay, his EARLIER childhood) as best he can on the way in.
<<DICE>> Green Cove rolls 2 dice: <4 10> for 2 successes.
Shai quirks an eyebrow at Yasutora's discussion, but assumes the Zenith has things well in hand. She drifts over to the refreshments, sorting through the food for something interesting, and waits for someone else to explain the barbarian thing. Since, well, she missed the second half...
Leti [to Green Cove]: As the food is spread out, you feel a sudden jolt of terror - and then, with the realization that this is not your emotion, but one coming from someplace - and someone - else, it recedes; you can still detect the fear, but it's not acting /on you/.
<<OOC>> Shai ...meep. o.o
Green Cove pauses in the middle of reaching forward to swipe a snack, and glares about her, searching for whatever might be causing this sudden foreign emotion. "Leaf," she says, "did you feel that?"
<<OOC>> Leti innocents at people cheerfully.
Yoru listens in briefly on Yasutora's discussion. He doesn't seem so interested in it however and settles himself in on a bench. Barring anyone else taking up the task he will give an overview of what happened at the camps, leaving out the part about the hidden workshop. Yoru will also mention that the Circle has some thoughts on how the Barbarians and the Townsfolk can get along in a more amiable fashion.
Ten River Wind finally growls a response to Yasutora, "Save your breath," he advises in Rivertongue (far better than any of the other barbarians speak the trade tongue), "these weaklings are sure to demand my death, and your exhortations to repentance are useless."
Leti [to Green Cove]: As quickly as it came, the fear slides into a sense of exultation; it tastes, to your mind, much like the thrill of battle... and then fades away, leaving you with only your own thoughts and emotions.
Shai blinks over at the glaring Twilight. "Something happen?" She twitches a hand toward her bow, listening with half an ear to Yoru's story.
Yasutora calmly tells Ten River Wind, "If you learn more of your heritage, and become the man and exalt you are not yet, perhaps they will see to some form of mercy. If not, perhaps you will learn-- next time." His tone changes as Green Cove speaks, and he turns to regard her. "Is something amiss, my sister?" the giant inquires.
Green Cove glowers about. "Someone's in my guts," she says to Shai. "Fear that wasn't mine. Victory that wasn't mine. I shouldn't be feeling it. Therefore, it belongs to someone else. I don't know who."
Zahen sounds dubious about the idea of getting along with barbarians.
Shai looks concerned, and a little bemused. "..._strange_. I've never run into anything like that... Do you have any idea how?"
Yoru pauses in his story telling to glance at Green Cove.
Green Cove frowns, almost petulant. "No. I don't know. I don't like it."
"The Realm takes advantages of weaknesses, my host," Allen says, leaning forwards. "In this state, your town is a weakness in the defenses of Nexus. If you can achieve a truce with the barbarians, and work out a deal satisfactory to both groups, the Realm will have nothing to exploit."
Shai reaches out to squeeze Green Cove's shoulder comfortingly. "We'll have to figure out how it happened, then. Maybe it's just a once-off thing?" She glances over at Allen's comment, and nods, calmly.
Residents of the city begin drifting in; some of the people you freed from the barbarian camp come in. They take seats on the long benches at the lower end of the hall.
Zahen frowns. "The Realm? What do they want..."
Zahen shakes his head. "This, I'm afraid, should be discussed with the full council."
Yoru nods towards Zahen. "They want you as part of them. It is a distressing matter, but perhaps one to be brought up after this *waves at Yasutora's load* is dealt with."
"Ah, where would it be appropriate for us to sit?" Shai inquires, noting the observers.
Yasutora nods gravely to Zahen, and then looks around. "Excuse me, Ten River Wind," he says politely. "I need to check something." He concentrates for a moment, and prays to the Least God of the Unyielding Bastion, requesting via the sanctified code-phrases for Essence Sight to turn on, the steady blipping flash of his visor indicating the return of his caste mark.
Green Cove frowns, but goes back to reaching for snacks. "Maybe so."
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "3 motes, gives me about a minute of seeing despite weather conditions and seeing non-cloaked-against-essence-sight-invisible thingies."
<<OOC>> Leti says "Assuming Yoru is visible, there is nothing particularly invisible present. ^^ Green Cove looks just as she always does."
Yasutora says "There is nothing -here- besides us. Odd."
Shai murmurs, "Interesting."
Zahen nods to Shai. "Here at this end of the table will be appropriate. You are honored guests and witnesses; I fully expect you will be asked to speak during the meeting.
Green Cove says, around a mouthful of something reasonably tasty (table manners? what table manners?), "Maybe it already left. I'm not feeling those things anymore."
Shai smiles at Zahen, and nods. "Of course." She claims a seat, and gestures to Green Cove, like, 'sit by me?'
Green Cove takes a seat next to Shai.
<<OOC>> Leti says "Well. Unless people have more IC discussion before the meeting...?"
<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Not much from me."
<<OOC>> Leti says "It's probably a good spot to pause
<<OOC>> Shai says "I think Shai's good. --yaaaaaaaay more complications! [grins]"
<<OOC>> Yoru doesn't think so. I'll be happy to go over stuff OOC. I'm not sure what way Yoru will lean on sentencing yet.
<<OOC>> Green Cove is up for pausing.
<<OOC>> Allen says "Willing to pause. I'm a bit fuzzy. <3"
<<OOC>> Yoru hopes this complication at least lets them regain essence. I getting low :/
<<OOC>> Leti says "You will have started regenerating during the walk back towards town."
<<OOC>> Leti says "At 'leisurely stroll' rates."
<<OOC>> Yoru had hoped so.
<<OOC>> Leti says "And sitting around here, of course, you're regenerating too. Unless you decide to start a battle, you'll pretty much be regenerating through the council meeting. :)"
<<OOC>> Shai says "About 1m per 15min, I think?"
<<OOC>> Leti says "Yay! Thank you for game, people. I hope everyone enjoyed. ^_^"
<<OOC>> Yoru cheers the regen.
<<OOC>> Yoru has enjoyed too.
<<OOC>> Yasutora had much fun. ^_^
Leti says "4 xp for all."
