Elendor
Fun by the Fireside
The Mordain agent Asht attempts to sneak up on the Rangers' camp. Not surprisingly, he is caught and knocked unconscious by Aragorn while Keldean and Cordelia make a quick getaway followed by Annaiel.
Sort Date: no date set
Location: The Angle
Description: At the Angle
This is the point at which the Loudwater flows into a greater river, the Hoarwell. Between the two rivers is a narrow stretch of land, the Angle, a flat region overgrown with brush, scrub, and tangled trees. On this shore the country is more open, however: a pleasant region covered with hardwood, predominantly oak trees, with occasional breaks in the forest cover.
This is rich country, the soil dark, and there is much game, but there is no sign of inhabitants, save for an occasional ruined building, reduced to a tumble of stones, and near the shore a line of hills too regular to be natural, reminescent of the barrows on the downs far to the north.
Contents:
Keldean
Cordelia
Rhifaroth
Annaiel
Nauthcel
Aragorn
Obvious exits:
East leads 31 miles E.
Fords leads 2 miles NW.
Southwest leads 33 miles SW.
Northeast leads 32 miles NE.
It's been one full day since Cordelia disappeared the previous night--and now night has come again, the sun just setting. Cordelia and Liuni are sleeping on the forest floor, Cordelia's arm curled protectively over Liuni.
Keldean hasn't slept yet, though he sorely needs it. He's worried about letting his guard down while Cordelia and Liuni are asleep. That Strider fellow didn't make him feel terribly at ease and something the man said is weighing on his thoughts. He's holding the elven knife, twisting it in the moonlight while he sits next to the two sleeping girls. (RE again)
The the cooling air of the night ripples over the small condensed camp, weaving amongst the leaves, rustling them gently as it makes its pass. A low fire is kept for the sole purpose of cooking and remains well shielded, try clean wood from a oiled cloth is produced so that the smoke remains little if any.
Sparrow sets another pieces upon the licking flames and then stands, shifting over to the small rabbits she had gotten. The dagger taken in hand again, she begins to skin them one by one, her grey eyes cast upon her work though a faint flicker of her eyes towards their guests is given every now and again.
Her bow lays upon the ground at her side along with her arrows, her sword still upon her side. One rabbit finished, she sets the pelt aside and works on the next, a sharpened spit ready.
Some distance away a cloaked figure moves stealthily in the darkness. Asht settles himself against the bole of a tree, all but concealed in his black travelling cloak. He can just make out the figures around the fire, but as yet cannot identify them specifically.
A long moment is spent watching, studying, planning. With a quick movement, he pulls back the hood of his cloak slightly, exposing his sallow face, dark eyes flicking here and there, mouth set in a sneer. A shiver runs up his spine.
Keldean pushes back the auburn curls from his face, covering a yawn as he stubbornly refuses to succumb to to his fatigue. He slides the knife into sheath in his boot and shifts to sit more comfortably, his gaze wandering to Annaiel working on the rabbits. He makes no offer to help.. has no desire to do so.
"Its good to see you up.." she says softly without stilling her work. Once one side is finished, she wipes her hands on the torn cloth at her side and takes up her water skin. Grey eyes settle on Keldean and she smiles softly. Tossing him the skin, she nods. "Wet your throat.., dinner will be a bit yet." She looks down to the rabbit and turns it over, beginning to carefully skin the other side.
[Cordelia(#1394)] Liuni and Cordelia are not in the firelight. Liuni is fast asleep, but Cordelia stirs slightly at the sound of Annaiel's voice, lifting her head. She says nothing.
Keldean catches the water skin that Annaiel tosses, nodding in acknowledgement before he takes a sip. He looks over as Cordelia lifts her head and smiles slowly. The boy leans forward to pass the skin to her. "Here."
The shadowy figure moves forwards now, small steps, trying to make no sound at all. Away from the trees he is somewhat exposed, almost within bow shot of the camp. Asht can make out the figures by the fire, but none of them are the one he seeks, but his expression hardens as he just makes out the figure of Keldean.
There's another long moment of immobility then the thin man moves again, this time on a slight angle, the few steps taking him even closer to the firelight. A branch breaks under his foot. It may just be the sound of some animal foraging on this windy night.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
Animal or not, Sparrow pauses and looks from the two sisters out and through the growing night. Quickly she lowers her hand, motioning for them to stay low. Holding tight to the dagger, wet with the blood and flesh of the rabbit still. Cautiously she takes up her bow with her other and swivels slightly to look about. Frowning, grey eyes search the ring of light, breath coming evenly as the woman studies the passing moment with consideration.
[Cordelia(#1394)] "Thanks." Cordelia catches the waterskin from Keldean and turns to wake Liuni when there is the sound of a twig snapping. Quietly she sets the water down and turns toward the direction of the sound, so that she misses Annaiel's gesture to stay low. Liuni is closer to the light from the fire, but Cordelia is in the darkness. Back to the others, her hand goes to a knife she had hidden on her person, slowly drawing it.
Keldean doesn't even notice anything amiss at first. It's Cordelia's reaction that clues him in. He sees her drawing her knife and immediately does the same, looking around sharply. The youth is jumpier than the others, his movements more sudden. He shifts to a crouch, one hand planted in the dirt for balance as he tries to see through the darkness.
The significance of Annaiel's movement is not lost on Asht. In the firelight he can just make out the bow in her hand and he, too, slowly drops to the ground. He reaches down, hands searching the ground, perhaps looking for a stone to use to distract the ranger's attention, but there is none to be found.
There's an unspoken curse on his lips and he remains where he is, almost completely still in the shadows. Asht holds his breath, even, keenly aware of the danger he is now in.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
Looking to the others, she tries not to give them direct looks before she slowly rises. Stepping for the edge of the circle of light, she tucks the dagger in her belt and takes up an arrow, pausing her foreward movement as her grey eyes continue to search. She remains silent as well, arrow touching wood and sring, fingers curling.
Cordelia takes a quiet step into the woods, then holds, hardly breathing as she listens, knife in hand. There seems to be no sound...
Keldean watches Annaiel and Cordelia for a moment, then shifts his gaze to Liuni. He rises and moves to stand protectively over the child, wiping the dirt from his hand as he looks around nervously.
Asht's dark eyes stare at Annaiel as she knocks an arrow and lets out a soft hiss. It's unlikely to be distinguishable from the natural sound of the wind. He watches carefully, quite unsure of what to do. After a moment he relaxes a little, remaining where he is. Seemingly, it's safer not to move.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
Another step is taken outwards, a cautious one as her bow remains at her side and slightly infront of her. She casts a glance back and takes an angle away from the fire. Slowly, her eyes flitting, narrowing at one point as she stops, freezing not too far from where the noise was, or where she thinks it may have been. Tilting her head, the woman listens, waits, and then breathes. Finally she shakes her head, and casts a arcing glance around before she takes a step back and turns towards the fire once more.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
"A friend would take less care to hide their approach," says a voice then, behind Asht. It is not overly loud, but certainly not whispered, and a dozen paces or so away from the skulking man appears another. Strider stands watching Asht carefully, hand upon his swordhilt, though the blade is not drawn.
"Name yourself, and your business," he says plainly, and there is an edge to his words.
[Cordelia(#1394)] With a quick glance back toward the fire as Annaiel heads that way, Cordeila, too, turns to head out of the woods. She whirls back around at the sound of Strider's voice, though--in fron tof her, not too far from where she had just ventured into the woods.
[Liuni(#22296)] Waking in front of the fire to see Keldean with the knife, Liuni's thumb automatically goes into her mouth as she takes in the scene, arms reaching out for Keldean's legs.
Keldean remains where he is, unsure of what's going on and unwilling to leave Liuni alone. When the girl wraps her arms around his legs he speaks softly to the girl, "Liuni.. stay down.. okay?"
The shock on Asht's face may be hidden in the shadows but there's no mistaking the sharp intake of breath. He turns slightly, still crouching, looking up at the ranger. His expression betrays his confusion but in a moment settles down to apparent neutrality.
With a quick movement, all attempt to hide his position gone, Asht rises to his feet. "Who are you and why are you following me?" he asks the man before him, his voice soft and sibilant. He makes no attempt to answer Aragorn's question, apparently trying to simply brazen through.
Turning about as well, Annaiel's bowstring is drawn back in an angry complaint. Watching down the length of the shaft, her muscles hold back her dart as she listens and waits. Grey eyes focus on Asht and then looks up towards Strider, a question in that gaze.
Her legs settle into a ready stance, her body registering the wait that may be needed.
[<#1394>] It can't be seen in the darkness, but Cordelia's face pales at the sound of Asht's voice. Very slowly she works her way back to where Liuni and Keldean are. "... Asht."
[Liuni(#22296)] The little girl nods and looks up at Cordelia, fright in her big brown eyes. She clutches Keldean's legs tightly.
Keldean draws in a shaky breath when Cordelia explains the situation so efficiently. "We should go.." He whispers softly, reaching down and shoving the knife back into the sheath. "Liuni, let me carry you." He reaches for the girl, obviously quite set on a plan of action to flee. Keldean always has been flighty, though.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
Lingering in the dark, Strider does not answer Asht's question in return, and he takes the time to nod gently to Annaiel. He then takes a pace forward, and fingers can be seen to tighten around the hilt of his sword, but still the blade remains sheathed.
"You come to my camp unbidden and wearing a knife. Give me your name and business, or I'll cut that weapon from your hand."
[Cordelia(#1394)] Without saying a word, Cordelia nods to Keldean, then bends down and lifts up her sister herself. She inclines her head in the opposite direction from where Asht stands.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
Slowly releasing the arrow, she does not remove it from its resting place. Her arms lower the bow but hold tightly, ready to spring forth in certainty of what target is her's. Asht is watched closely but Sparrow does not step closer, no. Her chin lifts and she listens to the confrontation in silent reserve, watching closely the movements of the intruder. Grey eyes flit to the other three.
[<#22296>] Liuni says in Eothrik, ""Gonna go home?""
[<#22296>] Wrapping her arms around Cordelia's neck, Liuni rests her head on her shoulder and wraps her legs around her waist. She's still a little sleepy. "" Liuni asks very softly, her voice whispery and heavy with sleep.
Dark eyes dart from Aragorn across to the campfire and back again, a flush of panic washes over Asht's features. Very slowly he draws back his cloak, revealing a tunic and leggings that are dull brown, but appear black in this light. The aformentioned knife sits on his hip, scabarded.
With a sigh he says to Aragorn "Do you think it so strange for a man to carry a knife in these parts, yes? And if you wish to cut down a man who offers you no violence, then by all means do so, if that is what you think is right..." A calculating expression forms on Asht's face, but a deep tension is detectable and he remains perfectly still, his body rigid.
Keldean hesitates a moment, then starts sneaking off, his movement careful and quiet. When he's actually trying, the boy can be rather soft of step.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
Slowly releasing the arrow, she does not remove it from its resting place. Her arms lower the bow but hold tightly, ready to spring forth in certainty of what target is her's. Asht is watched closely but Sparrow does not step closer, no. Her chin lifts and she listens to the confrontation in silent reserve, watching closely the movements of the intruder. Grey eyes flit to the other three. She turns then, forgetting her target and the watch of Asht to make a study of the others, worrying herself with their movements and intentions.
[<#1394>] "" Cordelia whispers to Liuni quietly, cradling the girl against her. She slips off into the darkness after Keldean.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
Strider sniffs at this, and in the moonlight his eyes can be seen to narrow. He walks forward to meet Asht more properly, halting but two paces away, and still his hand does not leave the hilt of his sword. "Clever words, traveller, but I've heard many and better. Few walk these lands now-a-days, with or without a blade, and I've watched the trails. So tell me, what is your name?"
His eyes flit then to Annaiel and the departure of the young pair. He jerks his head urgently in their direction.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
She does not waist her time and takes up her quiver, belting it. The raven haired woman, golden feather shifting amongst those waves ducks and disappears heading the opposite direction of the two speaking. She melds with the wood and her passing now is nothing but a whisper.
His attention wanders for a moment, staring sharply at Annaiel and then at the shadowy figures who depart stealthily. He still can't make out precisely who they are. A thoughtful look forms on his face and he is silent a moment.
With a curt nod of his head towards Aragorn, he says "My name is Adan. I live near Shepherding Village. There is a woman, she stole a horse and then... then killed him. I follow her to exact my revenge..." Asht's voice breaks and his bottom lip quivers a little in the darkness.
Silence follows, then Asht looks at Aragorn enquiringly. "You have my name and my business. Will you help or hinder me?"
[Aragorn(#19187)]
But the brow of Strider furrows anew, and he shakes his head to the other fellow. "I know well the folk of that Village, and in turn seek a man who slew another. Your name is not Adan, I guess, and instead I call you Asht. You walk in lands that do not want you, and have blood upon your hands."
A placid expression returns to Asht's face as he digests what Aragorn has said. "You lie," he says with a soft hiss then takes a pace backwards. "My name is as I have said and my business, too. Perhaps if you know so much of this, I have reason to fear you, too."
Asht holds out his hands and indeed there are the remnants of blood stains there, if it's possible to see them in the darkness. "As for blood, yes, but it is the blood of a kinsman, fouly murdered by that woman. I think you know more than you will say, yes?" Dark eyes study Aragorn for a long moment.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
"Aye, and more than you would like," nods Strider to this, drawing his sword at last. The pale moonlight shivers down the blade, but ends quicker than it should the final third of the sword missing as though broken off. "If you know the look of the woman, then tell me of her."
[Combat(#13388)] Aragorn slips a bright sword from its sheath. The metal rings faintly as the blade passes the scabbard.
The thin man throws Aragorn a withering look as he draws his sword, but does nothing in return, indeed he doesn't move an inch. "It was dark, so I saw little," he says, licking his lips. "Black hair I saw, her clothes worn from travel I think, yes... She attacked like an animal, there was..." Asht stops speaking, seemingly overcome with emotion and looks down.
With a sharp glance at the broken sword pointed at him he says softly "There was much blood." Asht shakes his head, as if to shake away the image itself. "But if you know so much, will you not help me? You do not strike me as a brigand, but perhaps my eyes decieve me. And still you have not given me your name?" His tone has become conversational, apparently Asht assumes his lies are meeting some measure of success.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
"No," agrees the other man, and Strider seems unmoved by Asht's words. "I have not. Nor do I plan to, unless you can tell me the name of the master of that village. Speak quickly, for he is known to all who live nearby and your life depends upon it."
A flash of anger appears in Asht's eyes and he glances quickly from one ranger to the other and back again. "I grow weary of these questions," he snaps, his voice breaking. He coughs now, his thin frame rocked by it, and brings his hand to his mouth. Dropping his hand he takes another pace backwards. Adopting the tone of an innocent unfairly accused he says quietly "I do not believe you will kill me in cold blood. I do not believe you will aid me, either." Asht shakes his head again, apparently disappointed. "But I fail to understand why you would hinder me. I am clearly in the right, yes?"
[Aragorn(#19187)]
Once again, however, Strider is unimpressed by Asht's deception, and once more his broken blade flashes in the moonlight. "It is clear that you have lied, and there are folk about who deserve such a death..."
But as he speaks his hand moves swiftly, the hilt rising in the night, and with a sudden punch the pommel of his sword is sent towards the Mordain agent's forehead.
Aragorn attacks you with his Longsword!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
The thin man is completely unprepared for the attack. The pommel of Aragorn's sword hits him squarely in the forehead. A surprising amount of blood bursts forth, the skin on his forehead splitting open almost to the crown of his head. Perhaps Asht's skull is fractured, but it's impossible to tell.
Blood pours down Asht's sallow features and he wavers a moment. "Why..." is the only word he manages to get out before collapsing straight downwards. He remains on the ground, blood pouring from his head, covering his face and clothes.
[Combat(#13388)->Asht]
You forego your chance to attack.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
"Because your guilt was written upon your face," answers Aragorn then, as he watches the man fall. The Dunadan quickly sheathes his weapon, stooping at once to inspect the prone man before him. Fingers press to Asht's neck, and he seems to check for a pulse.
[Combat(#13388)] Aragorn returns his sword to its sheath.
It's unlikely that Asht can hear Aragorn's words: beneath the blood his eyes are open, the pupils rolling back up into his head. A faint pulse is detectable but the amount of blood that is all but pumping out of the wound gives further indication that his heart is still beating. It seems likely that the thin man will bleed to death sooner rather than later if nothing is done to stop the bleeding.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
Lucky for him then that the hands of Aragorn have dressed many a wound. He tears two strips of cloth from Asht's clothing, caring little for the damage it would seem, and the first of these he uses to dab and wipe away what blood has already stained the man's sallow features. Then, holding it firm against the cut itself he quickly fastens the second in a band around Asht's head tying it tight to keep the first rag in place and stopping the blood.
Sighing then, the Ranger reaches inside his cloak, fumbling with the buttons of a satchel.
HEALING: Aragorn attempts to treat your wounds...
For a few moments, blood continues to well through the makeshift bandages but after a time it stops, the wound beginning to clot. A series of shivers shake Asht, his eyes close involuntarily. With some of the blood removed from his face his features are no longer sallow, but have taken on a palour that is indicative of his nearness to death.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
"Frail indeed," frowns the son of Arathorn, and the Dunadan watches Asht with wary eyes perhaps afraid for his life. Even so he takes no steps yet to care for the other man, and from his belongings he produces a short measure of rope -- this used hastily to bind Asht's wrists together. Pocketing the man's still sheathed knife, Aragorn then rises to one knee, and spares a glance about him.
There is no response as the ranger binds Asht's wrists and removes his dagger. It's not out of character for Asht to be shamming, but it would seem he is genuinely unconscious, his body limp and unresponsive. The wind rises a little as he lies there covered in his black cloak and a measure of blood. Asht's breathing is shallow, but almost discernable in the silence.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
And the ears of the Dunedain have been likened to those of the elves Aragorn hears the breath and nods in satisfaction. Taking the time to scan the darkness anew he grunts a little less happily then, and makes for the camp proper. There, among the bags and gear huddled in a small pile he finds a longer length of rope, and this he carries back over to Asht swiftly.
One end is tied tightly and double knotted around the agent's ankle, the other fastened around the sturdy curve of a bough wrapped twice to prevent it sliding off down the length of the branch. He sniffs at his work, inspecting the knots, but seeming to be pleased with what he sees he looks down once more to Asht.
"I'll return," says he to the fallen man, ere he turns and slips away into the night.
No response is forthcoming from the prone figure of Asht, even as Aragorn ties his ankle. His face is still incredibly pale, his breath shallow but it seems likely he will live out the night, at least.
This is the point at which the Loudwater flows into a greater river, the Hoarwell. Between the two rivers is a narrow stretch of land, the Angle, a flat region overgrown with brush, scrub, and tangled trees. On this shore the country is more open, however: a pleasant region covered with hardwood, predominantly oak trees, with occasional breaks in the forest cover.
This is rich country, the soil dark, and there is much game, but there is no sign of inhabitants, save for an occasional ruined building, reduced to a tumble of stones, and near the shore a line of hills too regular to be natural, reminescent of the barrows on the downs far to the north.
Contents:
Keldean
Cordelia
Rhifaroth
Annaiel
Nauthcel
Aragorn
Obvious exits:
East leads 31 miles E.
Fords leads 2 miles NW.
Southwest leads 33 miles SW.
Northeast leads 32 miles NE.
It's been one full day since Cordelia disappeared the previous night--and now night has come again, the sun just setting. Cordelia and Liuni are sleeping on the forest floor, Cordelia's arm curled protectively over Liuni.
Keldean hasn't slept yet, though he sorely needs it. He's worried about letting his guard down while Cordelia and Liuni are asleep. That Strider fellow didn't make him feel terribly at ease and something the man said is weighing on his thoughts. He's holding the elven knife, twisting it in the moonlight while he sits next to the two sleeping girls. (RE again)
The the cooling air of the night ripples over the small condensed camp, weaving amongst the leaves, rustling them gently as it makes its pass. A low fire is kept for the sole purpose of cooking and remains well shielded, try clean wood from a oiled cloth is produced so that the smoke remains little if any.
Sparrow sets another pieces upon the licking flames and then stands, shifting over to the small rabbits she had gotten. The dagger taken in hand again, she begins to skin them one by one, her grey eyes cast upon her work though a faint flicker of her eyes towards their guests is given every now and again.
Her bow lays upon the ground at her side along with her arrows, her sword still upon her side. One rabbit finished, she sets the pelt aside and works on the next, a sharpened spit ready.
Some distance away a cloaked figure moves stealthily in the darkness. Asht settles himself against the bole of a tree, all but concealed in his black travelling cloak. He can just make out the figures around the fire, but as yet cannot identify them specifically.
A long moment is spent watching, studying, planning. With a quick movement, he pulls back the hood of his cloak slightly, exposing his sallow face, dark eyes flicking here and there, mouth set in a sneer. A shiver runs up his spine.
Keldean pushes back the auburn curls from his face, covering a yawn as he stubbornly refuses to succumb to to his fatigue. He slides the knife into sheath in his boot and shifts to sit more comfortably, his gaze wandering to Annaiel working on the rabbits. He makes no offer to help.. has no desire to do so.
"Its good to see you up.." she says softly without stilling her work. Once one side is finished, she wipes her hands on the torn cloth at her side and takes up her water skin. Grey eyes settle on Keldean and she smiles softly. Tossing him the skin, she nods. "Wet your throat.., dinner will be a bit yet." She looks down to the rabbit and turns it over, beginning to carefully skin the other side.
[Cordelia(#1394)] Liuni and Cordelia are not in the firelight. Liuni is fast asleep, but Cordelia stirs slightly at the sound of Annaiel's voice, lifting her head. She says nothing.
Keldean catches the water skin that Annaiel tosses, nodding in acknowledgement before he takes a sip. He looks over as Cordelia lifts her head and smiles slowly. The boy leans forward to pass the skin to her. "Here."
The shadowy figure moves forwards now, small steps, trying to make no sound at all. Away from the trees he is somewhat exposed, almost within bow shot of the camp. Asht can make out the figures by the fire, but none of them are the one he seeks, but his expression hardens as he just makes out the figure of Keldean.
There's another long moment of immobility then the thin man moves again, this time on a slight angle, the few steps taking him even closer to the firelight. A branch breaks under his foot. It may just be the sound of some animal foraging on this windy night.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
Animal or not, Sparrow pauses and looks from the two sisters out and through the growing night. Quickly she lowers her hand, motioning for them to stay low. Holding tight to the dagger, wet with the blood and flesh of the rabbit still. Cautiously she takes up her bow with her other and swivels slightly to look about. Frowning, grey eyes search the ring of light, breath coming evenly as the woman studies the passing moment with consideration.
[Cordelia(#1394)] "Thanks." Cordelia catches the waterskin from Keldean and turns to wake Liuni when there is the sound of a twig snapping. Quietly she sets the water down and turns toward the direction of the sound, so that she misses Annaiel's gesture to stay low. Liuni is closer to the light from the fire, but Cordelia is in the darkness. Back to the others, her hand goes to a knife she had hidden on her person, slowly drawing it.
Keldean doesn't even notice anything amiss at first. It's Cordelia's reaction that clues him in. He sees her drawing her knife and immediately does the same, looking around sharply. The youth is jumpier than the others, his movements more sudden. He shifts to a crouch, one hand planted in the dirt for balance as he tries to see through the darkness.
The significance of Annaiel's movement is not lost on Asht. In the firelight he can just make out the bow in her hand and he, too, slowly drops to the ground. He reaches down, hands searching the ground, perhaps looking for a stone to use to distract the ranger's attention, but there is none to be found.
There's an unspoken curse on his lips and he remains where he is, almost completely still in the shadows. Asht holds his breath, even, keenly aware of the danger he is now in.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
Looking to the others, she tries not to give them direct looks before she slowly rises. Stepping for the edge of the circle of light, she tucks the dagger in her belt and takes up an arrow, pausing her foreward movement as her grey eyes continue to search. She remains silent as well, arrow touching wood and sring, fingers curling.
Cordelia takes a quiet step into the woods, then holds, hardly breathing as she listens, knife in hand. There seems to be no sound...
Keldean watches Annaiel and Cordelia for a moment, then shifts his gaze to Liuni. He rises and moves to stand protectively over the child, wiping the dirt from his hand as he looks around nervously.
Asht's dark eyes stare at Annaiel as she knocks an arrow and lets out a soft hiss. It's unlikely to be distinguishable from the natural sound of the wind. He watches carefully, quite unsure of what to do. After a moment he relaxes a little, remaining where he is. Seemingly, it's safer not to move.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
Another step is taken outwards, a cautious one as her bow remains at her side and slightly infront of her. She casts a glance back and takes an angle away from the fire. Slowly, her eyes flitting, narrowing at one point as she stops, freezing not too far from where the noise was, or where she thinks it may have been. Tilting her head, the woman listens, waits, and then breathes. Finally she shakes her head, and casts a arcing glance around before she takes a step back and turns towards the fire once more.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
"A friend would take less care to hide their approach," says a voice then, behind Asht. It is not overly loud, but certainly not whispered, and a dozen paces or so away from the skulking man appears another. Strider stands watching Asht carefully, hand upon his swordhilt, though the blade is not drawn.
"Name yourself, and your business," he says plainly, and there is an edge to his words.
[Cordelia(#1394)] With a quick glance back toward the fire as Annaiel heads that way, Cordeila, too, turns to head out of the woods. She whirls back around at the sound of Strider's voice, though--in fron tof her, not too far from where she had just ventured into the woods.
[Liuni(#22296)] Waking in front of the fire to see Keldean with the knife, Liuni's thumb automatically goes into her mouth as she takes in the scene, arms reaching out for Keldean's legs.
Keldean remains where he is, unsure of what's going on and unwilling to leave Liuni alone. When the girl wraps her arms around his legs he speaks softly to the girl, "Liuni.. stay down.. okay?"
The shock on Asht's face may be hidden in the shadows but there's no mistaking the sharp intake of breath. He turns slightly, still crouching, looking up at the ranger. His expression betrays his confusion but in a moment settles down to apparent neutrality.
With a quick movement, all attempt to hide his position gone, Asht rises to his feet. "Who are you and why are you following me?" he asks the man before him, his voice soft and sibilant. He makes no attempt to answer Aragorn's question, apparently trying to simply brazen through.
Turning about as well, Annaiel's bowstring is drawn back in an angry complaint. Watching down the length of the shaft, her muscles hold back her dart as she listens and waits. Grey eyes focus on Asht and then looks up towards Strider, a question in that gaze.
Her legs settle into a ready stance, her body registering the wait that may be needed.
[<#1394>] It can't be seen in the darkness, but Cordelia's face pales at the sound of Asht's voice. Very slowly she works her way back to where Liuni and Keldean are. "... Asht."
[Liuni(#22296)] The little girl nods and looks up at Cordelia, fright in her big brown eyes. She clutches Keldean's legs tightly.
Keldean draws in a shaky breath when Cordelia explains the situation so efficiently. "We should go.." He whispers softly, reaching down and shoving the knife back into the sheath. "Liuni, let me carry you." He reaches for the girl, obviously quite set on a plan of action to flee. Keldean always has been flighty, though.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
Lingering in the dark, Strider does not answer Asht's question in return, and he takes the time to nod gently to Annaiel. He then takes a pace forward, and fingers can be seen to tighten around the hilt of his sword, but still the blade remains sheathed.
"You come to my camp unbidden and wearing a knife. Give me your name and business, or I'll cut that weapon from your hand."
[Cordelia(#1394)] Without saying a word, Cordelia nods to Keldean, then bends down and lifts up her sister herself. She inclines her head in the opposite direction from where Asht stands.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
Slowly releasing the arrow, she does not remove it from its resting place. Her arms lower the bow but hold tightly, ready to spring forth in certainty of what target is her's. Asht is watched closely but Sparrow does not step closer, no. Her chin lifts and she listens to the confrontation in silent reserve, watching closely the movements of the intruder. Grey eyes flit to the other three.
[<#22296>] Liuni says in Eothrik, "
[<#22296>] Wrapping her arms around Cordelia's neck, Liuni rests her head on her shoulder and wraps her legs around her waist. She's still a little sleepy. "
Dark eyes dart from Aragorn across to the campfire and back again, a flush of panic washes over Asht's features. Very slowly he draws back his cloak, revealing a tunic and leggings that are dull brown, but appear black in this light. The aformentioned knife sits on his hip, scabarded.
With a sigh he says to Aragorn "Do you think it so strange for a man to carry a knife in these parts, yes? And if you wish to cut down a man who offers you no violence, then by all means do so, if that is what you think is right..." A calculating expression forms on Asht's face, but a deep tension is detectable and he remains perfectly still, his body rigid.
Keldean hesitates a moment, then starts sneaking off, his movement careful and quiet. When he's actually trying, the boy can be rather soft of step.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
Slowly releasing the arrow, she does not remove it from its resting place. Her arms lower the bow but hold tightly, ready to spring forth in certainty of what target is her's. Asht is watched closely but Sparrow does not step closer, no. Her chin lifts and she listens to the confrontation in silent reserve, watching closely the movements of the intruder. Grey eyes flit to the other three. She turns then, forgetting her target and the watch of Asht to make a study of the others, worrying herself with their movements and intentions.
[<#1394>] "
[Aragorn(#19187)]
Strider sniffs at this, and in the moonlight his eyes can be seen to narrow. He walks forward to meet Asht more properly, halting but two paces away, and still his hand does not leave the hilt of his sword. "Clever words, traveller, but I've heard many and better. Few walk these lands now-a-days, with or without a blade, and I've watched the trails. So tell me, what is your name?"
His eyes flit then to Annaiel and the departure of the young pair. He jerks his head urgently in their direction.
[Annaiel(#28909)]
She does not waist her time and takes up her quiver, belting it. The raven haired woman, golden feather shifting amongst those waves ducks and disappears heading the opposite direction of the two speaking. She melds with the wood and her passing now is nothing but a whisper.
His attention wanders for a moment, staring sharply at Annaiel and then at the shadowy figures who depart stealthily. He still can't make out precisely who they are. A thoughtful look forms on his face and he is silent a moment.
With a curt nod of his head towards Aragorn, he says "My name is Adan. I live near Shepherding Village. There is a woman, she stole a horse and then... then killed him. I follow her to exact my revenge..." Asht's voice breaks and his bottom lip quivers a little in the darkness.
Silence follows, then Asht looks at Aragorn enquiringly. "You have my name and my business. Will you help or hinder me?"
[Aragorn(#19187)]
But the brow of Strider furrows anew, and he shakes his head to the other fellow. "I know well the folk of that Village, and in turn seek a man who slew another. Your name is not Adan, I guess, and instead I call you Asht. You walk in lands that do not want you, and have blood upon your hands."
A placid expression returns to Asht's face as he digests what Aragorn has said. "You lie," he says with a soft hiss then takes a pace backwards. "My name is as I have said and my business, too. Perhaps if you know so much of this, I have reason to fear you, too."
Asht holds out his hands and indeed there are the remnants of blood stains there, if it's possible to see them in the darkness. "As for blood, yes, but it is the blood of a kinsman, fouly murdered by that woman. I think you know more than you will say, yes?" Dark eyes study Aragorn for a long moment.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
"Aye, and more than you would like," nods Strider to this, drawing his sword at last. The pale moonlight shivers down the blade, but ends quicker than it should the final third of the sword missing as though broken off. "If you know the look of the woman, then tell me of her."
[Combat(#13388)] Aragorn slips a bright sword from its sheath. The metal rings faintly as the blade passes the scabbard.
The thin man throws Aragorn a withering look as he draws his sword, but does nothing in return, indeed he doesn't move an inch. "It was dark, so I saw little," he says, licking his lips. "Black hair I saw, her clothes worn from travel I think, yes... She attacked like an animal, there was..." Asht stops speaking, seemingly overcome with emotion and looks down.
With a sharp glance at the broken sword pointed at him he says softly "There was much blood." Asht shakes his head, as if to shake away the image itself. "But if you know so much, will you not help me? You do not strike me as a brigand, but perhaps my eyes decieve me. And still you have not given me your name?" His tone has become conversational, apparently Asht assumes his lies are meeting some measure of success.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
"No," agrees the other man, and Strider seems unmoved by Asht's words. "I have not. Nor do I plan to, unless you can tell me the name of the master of that village. Speak quickly, for he is known to all who live nearby and your life depends upon it."
A flash of anger appears in Asht's eyes and he glances quickly from one ranger to the other and back again. "I grow weary of these questions," he snaps, his voice breaking. He coughs now, his thin frame rocked by it, and brings his hand to his mouth. Dropping his hand he takes another pace backwards. Adopting the tone of an innocent unfairly accused he says quietly "I do not believe you will kill me in cold blood. I do not believe you will aid me, either." Asht shakes his head again, apparently disappointed. "But I fail to understand why you would hinder me. I am clearly in the right, yes?"
[Aragorn(#19187)]
Once again, however, Strider is unimpressed by Asht's deception, and once more his broken blade flashes in the moonlight. "It is clear that you have lied, and there are folk about who deserve such a death..."
But as he speaks his hand moves swiftly, the hilt rising in the night, and with a sudden punch the pommel of his sword is sent towards the Mordain agent's forehead.
Aragorn attacks you with his Longsword!...
...and he hits! Ouch!
The thin man is completely unprepared for the attack. The pommel of Aragorn's sword hits him squarely in the forehead. A surprising amount of blood bursts forth, the skin on his forehead splitting open almost to the crown of his head. Perhaps Asht's skull is fractured, but it's impossible to tell.
Blood pours down Asht's sallow features and he wavers a moment. "Why..." is the only word he manages to get out before collapsing straight downwards. He remains on the ground, blood pouring from his head, covering his face and clothes.
[Combat(#13388)->Asht]
You forego your chance to attack.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
"Because your guilt was written upon your face," answers Aragorn then, as he watches the man fall. The Dunadan quickly sheathes his weapon, stooping at once to inspect the prone man before him. Fingers press to Asht's neck, and he seems to check for a pulse.
[Combat(#13388)] Aragorn returns his sword to its sheath.
It's unlikely that Asht can hear Aragorn's words: beneath the blood his eyes are open, the pupils rolling back up into his head. A faint pulse is detectable but the amount of blood that is all but pumping out of the wound gives further indication that his heart is still beating. It seems likely that the thin man will bleed to death sooner rather than later if nothing is done to stop the bleeding.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
Lucky for him then that the hands of Aragorn have dressed many a wound. He tears two strips of cloth from Asht's clothing, caring little for the damage it would seem, and the first of these he uses to dab and wipe away what blood has already stained the man's sallow features. Then, holding it firm against the cut itself he quickly fastens the second in a band around Asht's head tying it tight to keep the first rag in place and stopping the blood.
Sighing then, the Ranger reaches inside his cloak, fumbling with the buttons of a satchel.
HEALING: Aragorn attempts to treat your wounds...
For a few moments, blood continues to well through the makeshift bandages but after a time it stops, the wound beginning to clot. A series of shivers shake Asht, his eyes close involuntarily. With some of the blood removed from his face his features are no longer sallow, but have taken on a palour that is indicative of his nearness to death.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
"Frail indeed," frowns the son of Arathorn, and the Dunadan watches Asht with wary eyes perhaps afraid for his life. Even so he takes no steps yet to care for the other man, and from his belongings he produces a short measure of rope -- this used hastily to bind Asht's wrists together. Pocketing the man's still sheathed knife, Aragorn then rises to one knee, and spares a glance about him.
There is no response as the ranger binds Asht's wrists and removes his dagger. It's not out of character for Asht to be shamming, but it would seem he is genuinely unconscious, his body limp and unresponsive. The wind rises a little as he lies there covered in his black cloak and a measure of blood. Asht's breathing is shallow, but almost discernable in the silence.
[Aragorn(#19187)]
And the ears of the Dunedain have been likened to those of the elves Aragorn hears the breath and nods in satisfaction. Taking the time to scan the darkness anew he grunts a little less happily then, and makes for the camp proper. There, among the bags and gear huddled in a small pile he finds a longer length of rope, and this he carries back over to Asht swiftly.
One end is tied tightly and double knotted around the agent's ankle, the other fastened around the sturdy curve of a bough wrapped twice to prevent it sliding off down the length of the branch. He sniffs at his work, inspecting the knots, but seeming to be pleased with what he sees he looks down once more to Asht.
"I'll return," says he to the fallen man, ere he turns and slips away into the night.
No response is forthcoming from the prone figure of Asht, even as Aragorn ties his ankle. His face is still incredibly pale, his breath shallow but it seems likely he will live out the night, at least.
Players: Keldean, Cordelia, Rhifaroth, Annaiel, Nauthcel, Aragorn
