CALDUR: Saving of the Swans

 

Here along this high ridge, the long Rath Caldur stretches out across the desert scrub towards the northern fief-lands in the east. To the northwest a narrow road zig-zags up to the highest point of the promontory upon which a dark-stoned keep sits. That grim structure hides behind a rampart of thick stone and earthenworks which bristle as a blowfish with sharp wooden spikes facing ever outward. The other road slides off the high ridge and down into the cove that the ridge divides to the north lies a peaceful town, to the south stand the masts of ships at their moorings.

 

Though peaceful, Caldur is busy during the day. Merchants come and go near-constantly, driving wagon-teams of mule and horse burdened with goods: south they go to have their burdens loaded upon ships, or north to trade in the bazaar. Here pass seamen on shore-leave, desert-robed villagers, happy children, swordsmen in Hassadite brown...

The sky is clear and the stars shines brightly. The twilight summer air is very hot and dry around you. 

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

There is a dawn for this summer day before Caldur, but it not one of golden streams of light, nor a clear sky of blue. A haze of ash and smoke fills the sky, draining the morning color until it is a deep char streaked red. The docks, whose buildings lie in ruins, houses the Gondorian force, barricaded by wood and stone. Across the road, the city of Caldur is quiet still, morning cook-fires billowing tiny motes of white smoke into the dark clouds above. And upon the hill, the Keep of Caludr, ablaze. Torrents of heavy smoke lifting from various buildings behind it's fortified walls.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

The Gondorian soldiers that have come to the aid of their brethren are not ones to let early morning stop them from their goals, A large force of soldiers slowly marches forward, extending the corridor in which they have already built. Shield and Spearmen are in the front marching at a rhythmic pace, while Archers and the rest of the soldiers are behind them. As the large force continues to move forward they block the side streets by any means necessary, falling buildings and constructing makeshift barricades as needed.

 

Among the Gondorian soldiers is the Lieutenant Aearon, his shoulder bandaged as he marches at the front of the Army with many of the other officers. His eyes scanning the perimeter in front of them, slowly the Army continues to moves forward, ready for war.

[Azradi(#20135)] 

The camps of Farside and Seaward are already prepared for a new day of fighting. Or at least one might assume they are, for their camps are empty and the city quiet. As of yet, no challenge has arisen to stem the tide of the Gondorian's slow efforts...

[Faramir(#10683)] 

It is down one of these side streets that a figure, silent as the jaguar stalking its prey, moves. Slipping through before the barricade is made, the Lord of Gondor, cloaked in garments of Ithilien, and skulking through the shadows moves. Every step is calculated every movement justified aforehand. The man's approach is as death creeping upon the wind. Grey orbs peer at his surroundings, ever attentive of what may be lurking in the same shadows he utilizes for concealment of his own. Every step weighed against the sound it will produce on loose gravel, and each footfall careful to dislodge as little rubble as possible.

Circling about the buildings, the cloaked figure continues his slow advance, moving in ever onward towards the target of Gondor: The Haradrim camp. Yet this Ranger does not reveal his presence to the enemies of Gondor. Even his very breath is calculated, exhaled slowly along with the soft rustling of a breeze through the ruined city.

Gondor has an ally, and that ally comes from the shadows with the encroaching dawn.

[Menelglir(#17324)] 

The Swansmen are represented in the force that slowly pushes north into the city, and among them is Menelglir in a blue tabard still blood-stained from the most recent skirmish. The group of men he leads comes behind the shield and spearmen, but not at the very rear, the Squire leading 20 men this day. He moves slowly, cautious of what lies ahead now, scanning the streets and alleys being blocked. Surely the Squire is injured, but armor and tunic hide the bandages.

[Eruphel(#20109)] 

Corsairs give a cry and hue as the Gondorian's seem to be advancing down the road to the keep, many of them drawing swords to challenge the Northmen, leaping forth with cries of home and love of mother. But these are mere handfuls, squadrons of men told to hold the roads. And yet, in these narrow streets, is there really room for more? Even now, a new sentry calls out in anger, in the common tongue. "Come northward, dog, so I may cut you down!" And he draws his sword, nudging his companion, who nudges his companion, who nudges his companion. With a cry of challenge, the men run forward, to engage the advancing force.

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

Walking casually behind the rusty sea-dogs, Yildirim strides easy and slow, his voice calling out to the Gondorians before him in the style he usually uses to address his Gondorian friends, overly pleasant, "Menelglir.... dear dear Menelglir. Is this the time you have come with your friends to play? Must my blade push them aside so that we may finally talk?"

He laughs, amusement bright upon his face.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

The Gondorian's sizable force move slowly, block by block they move forward allowing for those in the rear to barricade or block the side streets as needed. The Gondorians are professional soldiers, they do not rush into battle because of insults, they simply hold their lines. A wall of shields in the front with archers firing arrows at any enemy that rushes to fight, then letting wall of shields and spears take care of the rest. Bloody this work is as the force of Gondorian men continues to slowly move forward.

 

As more and more groups of Corsairs attack, the Lieutenant shouts "Hold the lines men!! Impale them with your spears!" as he says this he continues to march forward with the army that is trying to gain more ground. Wielding his own longbow the Lieutenant notches and arrow and draws it back as he slowly moves forward, finally he lets it fly.

Aearon launches an arrow...

Aearon's bowshot hits Yildirim, moderately wounding him.

 

The slender form of a woman, clad in corsair's gear with a blue sash at her shoulder, wends her way through the rubbled pathways with the rusty salts. Nisrin glances about anxiously, looking for a certain ship-captain.

[(#24191)] The arrow catches Yildirim in the chest, knocking him from his feet. And there he lays for a beat, upon his back, clutching at the arrow and catching his breath.

"(Haradaic) Ouch."

[Azradi(#20135)] 

Rooftops and darkened doorways hold the remainder of the Haradrim forces - a mingle of men bearing the Farside Raven and Seaward blue. There they lurk, quiet and unseen.

On one rooftop in particular, Azradi anAzulada lies upon her stomach, her scimitar drawn. She watches the Gondorian progress with keen attention. A few officers and a squadron of archers share the vantage point with her.

Perched upon the battlements and looking out upon the city below is a helm-topped Knight with penetrating eyes. The Swansman watches silently.

[Menelglir(#17324)] 

Among the troops of Gondor, those without spear or bows fan out to the sides of the approaching group, swords drawn. It is these swordsmen that may first encounter the Haradrim lurking in doorways and allies, though the Gondorians move cautiously, checking each new hiding place as they draw near to it.

Menelglir is among this group of swordsmen, directing them.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

The Gondorian forces slowly move forward, all of the men seem at the ready. The Spearmen at the front are now fighting their way forward, thrusting their spears out from behind their wall of shields. The archers continue to fire arrows, their eyes searching the rooftops, windows, and doorways for any sightings of the enemy. 

 

Again the Lieutenant notches an arrow and draws it back, releasing the arrow he says to his men "Be ready men, keep your shields held high!" With that he continues to march his eyes ever scanning the area for the enemy.

Aearon launches an arrow...

Aearon's bowshot hits Yildirim, badly wounding him.

[(#24191)] The arrow from Aearon hits a roof tile and ricochets down at the street. The second of Aearon's arrows slips easily beside his first.

"(Haradaic) Mumakil's Mother's fodder...." Yildirim groans.

[Eruphel(#20109)] 

Not just a few streets back, but several streets back, there comes a sudden roar, of the voices of hundreds of men shouting. The sound is strange, echoed and channeled by the buildings. Then suddenly, there is a crash of shields and swords, the clashing is unmistakeable as a large force rushes into the street, pouring into the middle of the long extension of the Gondorian forces, threatening to close off the retreat of those at the fore. Many die almost instantly. But those behind step over their bodies, pushing and squeezing the Gondorian forces, and trying to pinch them off.

Among them, is Lady Eruphel.

A young woman is here, dark-skinned, leather-vested, curved blade heavy in one slender hand. Nisrin darts out from the cover of a once-gaily painted shop, ducking arrows as she moves quickly towards the fallen Yildirim.

"(Haradaic) Captain!" she cries angrily.

[Faramir(#10683)] 

The shadow-shrouded figure opts to change tactics, and as he finds a alleyway that is clear of Haradhrim, he ducks down it, swiftly climbing to the top of the building. Hard grey eyes pierce the early morning light, searching the streets as he crouches low and moves swiftly from one bit of cover to the next. Then he's spotting the enemy upon the rooftops, perparing to ambush the Gondorians in the streets below.

Nearing the gathering of Haradhrim, the Steward's son narrows his gaze. No Rangers were amidst the ground troops, thus there was only one way to warn them.

Rising from behind a ledge a couple buildings from the ambushers, longbow is already in hand with arrow nocked, and the bowstring is swiftly drawn back to his cheek as he's rising. By the time he's arisen, the Captain of Gondor has the bowstring pulled taut, the feathers tickling his cheek as he aims down the shaft. Without hesitation, the arrow is released, aimed at the head of the bowman near to Azradi's position. "Ambush on the roofs!" exclaims the Captain Faramir, already nocking another arrow to bow as he moves, seeking cover as he skitters across the rooftop, the warning delivered to his fellow Gondorians.

[(#24191)] Yildirim manages a smile for Nisrin, even as the Haradrim crash against the Gondorian forces to the south, "(Haradaic) You should not be here," a look towards the arrows, "(Haradaic) It's dangerous."

[Aearon(#16333)] 

As the Haradrim forces scramble over the barricades that have been constructed the soldiers in the middle and back begin to fight, using the narrow corridor and the fact that they now surround those that are attacking to their advantage. Hacking and slashing at those that climb over, archers firing at those that reach the tops.

 

Hearing the screams and shouts coming from the middle of the large formation the Lieutenant shouts "Stand and fight men!! Shields up! Archers shift fire!!" Notching another arrow he draws it back and fires at those attacking, his aim is for the top of the barricade.

Aearon launches an arrow...

Aearon's bowshot hits Eruphel, lightly wounding her.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

Many of those first attacked fall to their deaths, or fall screaming in pain cursing the foul Haradrim. This only moves to motivate the rest of the Gondorian men and send them into the fighting with newfound vigor.

[Menelglir(#17324)] 

It's bloody work now for the swordsmen in the lines of Gondor, Menelglir near to the barricades over which the Southrons rush. His sword soon drips with blood as he stands his ground among the soldiers, wave after wave of Southrons washing over the barricade. And then, in a few seconds of relative calm, he hears Faramir's warning shout, and glances up that way. "Ambush from the rooftops!" he takes up the cry.

[(#20135)] 

The warning does not go unnoticed by Lady Farside. Growling in frustration, she pushes herself up to a squat and signals for her archers to do the same. They do, but those nearest her do so with some trepidation as one of their own falls to an arrow launched by an unseen enemy. The archers rise from their prone positions to kneel on one knee. They appear not only on her rooftop, but the one across the street as well. Hastily, they nock arrows to their already strung bows and await her command. "(Haradaic) You!" she says to those nearest her, "(Haradaic) Find that bowman!" Then louder, she shouts orders to the further bowmen, "(Haradaic) Aim carefully and fire at will!".

No mindless volley issues forth, but rather a graduated release as the bowmen take aim before firing, careful to target the Gondorians further back and avoid their own men now engaging the Northmen's foreguard.

The archers sharing Azradi's roof, however, look elsewhere, searching for the unseen bowman.

Nisrin looks haughtily down at the fallen Yildirim. "(Haradaic) You are going to be trampled, and then the Arambodh will be manned by a Captain thin as sail-sheets," she concludes, setting the blunt edge of the scimitar expertly between her teeth. The slight girl reaches down for his arm, trying to drag him out of the commotion, or at least the confusion that courses through the streets.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

As arrows rain down upon the Gondorian forces, many men fall. Struck by arrows, some fatal some hardly even scratches, as the first men go down the shout goes up "Shields!! Archers fire at the rooftops!!" and with that the archers once again shift fire, some shoot at the rooftops while others continue to fire at those climbing over the barricade.

 

The Lieutenant has slowly forced his way to the middle of the army, trying to aid those being attacked near the center, nothing another arrow he draws it back and fires once again, though the shot is not well aimed. For he drops the bow and grabs his spear as he continues to move towards the fighting.

Aearon launches an arrow...

Aearon's bowshot hits Eruphel, moderately wounding her.

[(#24191)] With a playful roll of his eyes, Yildirim rises and limps off the battlefield to the north, "(Haradaic) By your command, Lady Nisrin."

Dammit, an arrow strikes Eruphel in the forearm, tearing a long gash in the meat. It burns like fire! The woman cries out, and some of her Serpent Guard check her to see if she is alright, though the moment doesn't last, as a wave of Gondorian attackers press forward. "Cut them off! Hurry, before they can rally and reinforce!" she calls out, just as another arrow, wild and stray, strikes her in the upper shoulder. She cries out, grabbing the arrow and pulling. It comes out with a hunk of meat stuck to the head, and she dashes it to the ground, holding her hand over the gushing blood in her shoulder. She points with her sword hand. "Over the rubble, men! Throw rocks down on their heads!"

Finding another ledge behind which to find cover, Faramir waits several moments for bowshots to ring out, the telltale 'TWANG' of bowstrings snapping taut as they release their missiles filling the air. Silence once again has come over the Captain of Gondor, and Faramir proves his patient resolve. As the bowmen search for him amidst the rooftops, he remains hidden for many moments before he once again rises, and in a swift motion, the bow is extended to arm's length, bowstring and feathers brought to his cheek even as he stands to his full height, and the longbow soon releases yet another fletched arrow, aimed for another of the archers upon rooftop. Running sidelong, he's withdrawing and firing yet another arrow at a third target as he moves, before he ducks behind another ledge, preparing for the barrage that could well come at him next time.

Slowly but surely a wall of shields have been made upon the side of the Gondorian Army, these are not the professional shield and spearmen like in the front, but men who are trying to push back their attackers. Swords and spears flash out and attack the Haradrim, their shields being held high as they attack. Archers continue to search for targets, and as they find them they let loose their arrows at the enemy.

So far the Gondorian Army has fared well, slaying at least as many as have been slain, holding the lines and pushing back any that has come to oppose them, so far. The Lieutenant has reached middle of the army where they were being attacked and shouts "Shields and spears to the front! Do not let them divide us!!" reaching the front of the lines he readies his shield and thrusts his spear at the nearest Haradrim.

Faramir stands not alone. Helchir, Lord of the Cuthalion, fights by the side of his beloved Captain. Oft the bows of his kindred have earned renown and fear when the Hounds of Ulmo go off to war. The Ranger kneels, bow arched at the ready until the hunter's eye spots its prey. The missile erupts off its string towards its target. 

Helchir does not wait long a response. Following his Captain's lead, he finds cover and arms another arrow.

Azradi's archers rely on what architectural protrusions are available for cover and the more challenging angle the Gondorian bowmen must contend with. It does not provide ideal protection and a few archers fall to Gondorian arrows - wounded or dead.

As for those who search for the Ranger (though they know it not), they are little match for the fabled skills of Denethor's least favorite son. All three of his arrows find their targets and two men fall dead or nearly so while the third falls wounded. The four remaining bowmen ignore their fallen comrades and fire quickly at the fleeting figure of Faramir.

Alerted by the twang of bows from behind her, Azradi swivels quickly, remaining crouched and pulling her shield forward. Her gray eyes leave the battle below and seek the enemy who has joined her airy vantage point.

[Yildirim(#24191)]

Nay, not climbing, but dashing up the barricade, feet bouncing from stone to wood and back again, Yildirim crests over the top, no longer at the front of the line, but in the middle with the rest of the Seaward. His blade slips between the spears and shield of the Gondorians, weaving through them till he is beside his target, known or no, and then, with a gleaming grin, he strikes out at Aearon.

Yildirim attacks Aearon with his Scimitar and moderately wounds him!

 

And Yildirim is not alone: from a near-collapsed wall leaps Nisrin lightly as a cat, grinning that same bloodthirsty smile. Ducking until she is near to the Lieutenant Aearon, she swings her curved blade, one lilting Westron word laughed: "Hello!"

You attack Aearon with your Scimitar...

Aearon dodges your attack.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

As arrows continue to fly down from the rooftops more Gondorian men fall to their deaths, most have followed the orders of their commanders and raised their shields above their heads, but the stray arrow does ricochet and strike a man down. The men at the sides of the army keep their shields to the front ready for a frontal attack, professional soldiers at their best.

 

Near the middle of the formation they continue to fight, trying to hold back the pressing Haradrim forces, among them is the Lieutenant Aearon and cursing in pain as he is struck in the ribs by a random blade.. the blade of Yildirim, blood flows from the wound staining his already filthy uniform. The shield of his fellow soldier beside him saves him from another attack, and grunting he thrusts his spear outwards from behind his shield while shouting "Hold the Lines! Keep together! Push them back!"

Aearon attacks Yildirim with his Spear, but Yildirim parries the attack with his shield!

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

"Push them back? Is that not the word we should speak, Telpekhor?" Yildirim asked with mock bemusement, Aearon's attack harmlessly clattering against his shield. Another swing towards his ribs, "So I say, press you back, absurd little Gondorian man."

Yildirim attacks Aearon with his Scimitar and lightly wounds him!

[Menelglir(#17324)] 

"Yildirim!" The name is shouted as Menelglir, fighting his way through a group of Southrons along with other men of Gondor, spots the attack on Aearon. He rushes forward, but his first attack is at the nearest attacker to him, the Squire's blade swinging at the back of Nisrin's knees.

Menelglir attacks you with his Longsword!...

...and he hits! Ouch!

ARB: You've been injured for - hp's by Menelglir's attack...

...you have -- left. Please RP this injury accordingly.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

As Yildirim's blade strikes the Lieutenant again, he laughs aloud as it hardly causes a bruise, thrusting his spear back out at him he shouts "You will die little man!" and then he shouts to his men "Fight!!! Strike them down!"

Aearon attacks Yildirim with his Spear, but he misses by an arm's length.

 

Behind Yildirim is Nisrin's giggle as she throws herself at those valiant Hostmen who would come to the aid of their Lieutenant, kicking and shoving and jabbing at close range. But an unexpected attack crosses her calf, slicing through the cuff of her boot, and she whirls about.

"Oh, hello!" the girl cries delightedly, slashing diagonally up at the much taller Squire's torso.

There is an odd piece of jewelry about her upper arm, noticeable for its bloodstained gleam: a band once protecting the helmed head of a Swan-Knight, silvered swan with stretched wings now bent.

You attack Menelglir with your Scimitar...

Your attack against Menelglir lightly wounds him!

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

Anger flashes across Yildirim face as Nisrin cry rings out, "Nay, my friend, she is Nisrin and you," he blade points at the Squire, "Have made a grave mistake."

Aearon forgotten, his spear attacking only where he was, the Corsair clad in his black leathers jumps at the Squire, blade flashing before him, the badge of the Knight-Admiral's office glittering with reflections of the dawn.

Yildirim attacks Menelglir with his Scimitar and moderately wounds him!

[Menelglir(#17324)] 

The girl's scimitar cuts, hitting the Squire's arm, though, and drawing no blood, the wound minor. Blood is drawn more by Yildirim's sudden attack, and Menelglir whips about to meet that attack, stepping forward to slash back at the Southron man despite grimacing at the pain of the wound he has taken.

Menelglir attacks Yildirim with his Longsword and badly wounds him!

[Aearon(#16333)] 

Seeing Yildirim attack his cousin the Lieutenant shouts "Push these foul men back!!! NOW!!" his words are full of anger, and the men know it for they make a valiant push forward trying to get to the young squire. The Lieutenant steps forward and thrust his spear at Yilidrim once more.

 

The Gondorian army continues to fight, arrows fly, swords slash, and spears thrust! They continue to hold the lines while they try to push back their attackers.

Aearon attacks Yildirim with his Spear, but he misses by a mile.

[(#24191)] Menelglir reply to Yildirim's insult land true, slicing across his chest just under the two protruding arrow shafts, broken near the base of his armor. He growls and then holds up short, another glance for Nisrin, "(Haradaic) Hubris. Hubris."

He manner relaxes as he takes a more defensive posture, catching sight of the spear and sidestepping it and giving Aearon a turn with his blade, swung high.

Yildirim attacks Aearon with his Scimitar and moderately wounds him!

 

With an enraged, wordless cry, the woman of Umbar lashes out at Menelglir, dark eyes smouldering. "Dog-child!"

You attack Menelglir with your Scimitar...

Menelglir parries your attack with his shield!

[Menelglir(#17324)] 

Yildirim's turn toward the Lieutenant gives Menelglir an opening, he lunges forward, thrusting with his sword toward the Southron's back, aiming for any opening in the man's armor. He fights silently, at least for now, and that concentration, perhaps, gives him enough presence of mind to thrust out with his shield against Nisrin's blow even as he strikes at Yildirim.

Menelglir attacks Yildirim with his Longsword, but he misses by an arm's length.

[Imrakhor]

Some time before, the helm-topped Swansman disappeared from the battlements. Now the doors of the Keep open and the devastation of Amroth is visible. Only a few left among their remaining are battle-worthy.

They march out of Caldur Keep with smoke trails ushering them forth and move towards the corridor currently held by Gondor in an ordered procession.

[Faramir(#10683)] 

Yet, Faramir is not there, and the arrows strike naught but air where he had been moments before. Ducking behind the ledge, grey eyes turn to regard Helchir following after him. "Brother," he intones, his words low as the man of Ithilien nears. "Swing about to the west. I shall go east. Together, we shall bring about their Doom." A hand reaches forth, placed upon Helchir's shoulder, his features somber. "We must not allow their volley of arrows to continue to fell our men upon the streets. At any cost."

Without another word, but a squeeze of Helchir's shoulder, Faramir once again launches himself upright, moving to the east as he'd stated. He has barely gone two steps before his first arrow is loosed, aimed at one of the archers as he tries to draw fire. Another arrow is swiftly nocked, and soon soaring out towards one of the archers on another rooftop nearby, aiming perhaps to draw the attention of a second group of bowmen as he moves yet again for more cover.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

The Lieutenant is caught upon the shield shoulder by Yildirim's blade, the links in his armor are broke and blood begins to flow from the gash, cursing at his misfortune he shouts "Shields!! Push them back!!" Backstepping he rejoins his shieldmen and again thrusts his spear at the foul former diplomat.

 

The Spearmen in the front of the Gondorian Army see the Swansmen and a shout goes up, archers begin to fire more and more arrows in an attempt to provide cover fire for them, the Spearmen hold the lines. 

 

Near the middle of the army the fighting is fierce, many a man falls to his death, struck down by enemy blades and arrows, yet still the Gondorian men fight on, giving little ground and always pushing back.

Aearon attacks Yildirim with his Spear, but he misses by an arm's length.

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

A step back and Yildirim feels Nisrin pressed against him. He turns, elbow turning her in kind, the swift movement catching both Aearon and Menelglir offguard as now Yildirim faces the Squire, blade arcing out at the young man's midsection.

Yildirim attacks Menelglir with his Scimitar, but Menelglir parries the attack with his Longsword!

[Imrakhor]  

Amroth's procession is short indeed, and they are quickly pressed upon by Haradrim looking to exact their revenge. Those that can fight hold those who cannot from the brunt of the assault, and blood is spilt. It soon becomes apparent that all must fight, whether they are physically able or not.

"(Haradaic) What they deserve," the Umbarean girl breathes quietly, worry in her tone for a moment. Nisrin spins deftly about to trade with Yildirim, flashing Aearon a quick, sweet smile, though rage is quick and loud in her eyes. Then she stabs low at the Lieutenant.

You attack Aearon with your Scimitar...

Your attack against Aearon moderately wounds him!

[Menelglir(#17324)] 

"Amroth! Amroth!" The cry is taken up, spreading through the men of Gondor as they fight, and then, "Gondor! Gondor!" With renewed energy, the northmen press on in their battle. 

 Near to Aearon at the center of this storm, Menelglir twists out of the way of Yildirim's attack--and then, as the scimitar of Nisrin falls upon his cousin, he sweeps his own blade down hard, stepping toward her, trying to cut through the shoulder of her sword arm.

Menelglir attacks you with his Longsword!...

...and he hits! Ouch!

ARB: You've been injured for - hp's by Menelglir's attack...

...you have -- left. Please RP this injury accordingly.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

The crazy move my the Haradrim surprised the Lieutenant, and he is stuck by the ugly haradrim girls blade, it draws a small wound upon his thigh and he curses yet again.. perhaps he should have stuck with his bow.. Backstepping again he thrusts his spear at the ugly girl and rejoins his men, the safety of a wall of shields.

Aearon attacks you with his Spear!...

...and he hits! Ouch!

ARB: You've been injured for -- hp's by Aearon's attack...

...you have -- left. Please RP this injury accordingly.

[Helchir(#30487)]  

For Helchir, a swift nod of the head is all that is needed to assure his Captain that his will shall be done. Grey Dunedain eyes reveal his resolve. Then in an instant he is on his way along the Western path, bow in hand and unleashing covering fire for those infantry engaged below. The tower lies before him yet. 

Behind a small minaret structure he finds cover, hugging his back to the pillar. Peering around its bend, he takes aim at a foe below. But his eye then trains again upon the tower, and those within.

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

Yildirim takes up the chant with Menelglir, for every "Amroth!" he shouts in turn, "Will lose!" Though he smiles no more, the joke past as Menelglir's blade sneaks past him and towards Nisrin once more. Waiting not for the result, he attacks the Squire once more.

Yildirim attacks Menelglir with his Scimitar, but Menelglir parries the attack with his shield!

[Menelglir(#17324)] 

Nor does the Squire wait for Nisrin's response, for he is forced to turn to deal with Yildirim's attack. Shield comes up and forward so that the Southron's blade hits only that, and then longsword snakes over and above the shield to come crashing toward Yildirim's head.

Menelglir attacks Yildirim with his Longsword and badly wounds him!

[Aearon(#16333)] 

The Lieutenant is now bleeding from a variety of wounds and he backs away from the front lines, limping as he slowly moves back, as he backs away he is replaced by a fresh man who attacks the enemies of Gondor with renewed vigor.

 

The Gondorian Army fights on, archers fire arrows to cover the movement of the swans in hopes of aiding their escape from the burning keep. Sword and Spearmen fight on, holding the lines and pushing the Haradrim back as best they can. Those in front have begun to move forward slightly, trying to close the gap between the keep and the Army. 

 

"(Haradaic) Oh, that is low of you," murmurs Nisrin as Menelglir's longsword slits her sleeve. But she does not turn from Aearon, for the spear, swift and sudden, pierces through her thin vest, and blood spreads damply across the leather. With a gasp she stumbles, leaning back against Yildirim a moment.

[Eron(#24786)] Another figure has remaind stoic from the shadows, but he sees the volly's of arrows moving each way, but the Serpent commander, wounded due to his foiled ploy against the Ithillien Ranger, has remained out of the main fray, picking his targets well to remain off of the radar of others.

Two Gondorians make such a target now, as Eron bends his bow, and looses towards the closest of the two.

Eron launches an arrow...

Eron's bowshot hits Menelglir, mildly wounding him.

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

Nisrin's words confuse Yildirim as he looks to her, thinking they are for him. Menelglir's blow glances off the Corsair's helm, blood quickly leaking from the wound. He manages barely to remain standing, swiping his sword in a wide arc to keep the Squire back.

Yildirim attacks Menelglir with his Scimitar and lightly wounds him!

[(#20135)] 

Two officers crouch alongside Azradi. This time she sees the Ranger and watches with narrowed eyes when he wounds two more of her archers, one here and the other upon another rooftop. She whispers something to her officers, then stands when Faramir seeks cover and leaps nimbly across the narrow gap between her building and theirs. Swift and agile she may be, but not quiet. Her mail jingles and her beaded braids clatter against it. Holding her shield protectively before her, the tall Adunie woman simply charges towards Faramir's last location - sparing only a glance for the other Ranger.

Once it is clear that she has been seen, her officers bellow commands, "(Haradaic) To Lady Farside! To Lady Farside! Enemy on the rooftops!"

"(Haradaic) Archers take cover!" The archers hunting Faramir try and provide cover for their Lady's assault but the other archers take cover, stopping their attack on the Gondorians below, at least for the moment as they assess this new danger.

[Menelglir(#17324)] 

From out of the fray, an arrow bounces off of Menelglir's back, but such is the chaos of combat that he does not even notice. Instead, he jumps back from Yildirim's attack, which manages to only slice at the outer layer of his armor. The Squire lunges forward to press his attack against the two Southrons, but a third now blocks his way and he is quickly engaged in bloody work against that man. Chaos reigns, yet the Stonelanders press to the north, seeking to open the way for the men of Amroth fighting their way south.

Nisrin realizes her error too late, and as she spins to face Menelglir, there is already Yildirim's blood twice on the Squire's blade. "(Haradaic) Captain!" she cries, pulling him towards the rubble as a shield-wall bears down upon them both.

[Imrakhor(#30834)]  

Amroth is hard pressed, so that their initial surge out of the gates is almost entirely faltered. Steel clangs upon steel, shield upon shield. Further and further they retreat, their escape seeming to come undone.

And then there is a swoon in Amroth's ranks, a sudden calmness...

...

Then, the calmness is shattered. From the middle of the ranks come dark-haired men, hale and fair, and their hands come to land upon the backs of those to their fore. The command is silent at first: "Push."

It echoes equally silent at first through the ranks of the Swansmen, but grows louder and louder until it crescendoes into a wild scream: "Push!"

So Amroth pushes.

Suddenly too, amidst the men, a banner of the Ship and the Swan is risen. And there it stands in the air for a moment before, blowing ever so slightly before it arcs down as a fell weapon upon the Haradrim masses.

The Knight-Captain carries that flag in one hand and his sword in the other.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

The Lieutenant has moved far within the ranks of the men, his wounds bleed freely as he commands the soldiers, shouting orders "Reinforce the lines! Pull out the wounded! Where are the archers!! Shift your fire!" he directs the men with his free hand.

 

The Army as a whole continues to fight, holding the lines as best they can, pushing the Haradrim back while trying to avoid the arrows being fired from the rooftops. Archers continue to rain volley after volley of arrows at the Haradrim, half going to aid the Swans the other half going where they are needed most. 

[Eron(#24786)]  

Eron watches from his hidey hole, still having been able to hide for the most part. He spots the push and the banner wielding Gondorian. "Hmm." He murmers as he bends his bow again, and hurls an arrow towards him.

Eron launches an arrow...

Eron's bowshot hits Imrakhor, moderately wounding him.

[Yildirim (#24191)] As the rage of battle fades, delirium seems to set in as he tries to focus, "(Haradaic) Lady Azradi calls for me! But I cannot see her. Do you see her?" he calls out, his blade behind the wall of shields.

The call of Amroth draws his attention anew though, and he squints towards the Knights and their banner. "(Haradaic) I...I know that man."

[Faramir(#10683)] 

As the clatter of chain is heard behind him, Faramir's dark grey orbs chance a glance over his shoulder to spot Azradi landing upon the rooftop near to him. Shedding himself of his longbow, the son of Denethor is swift in procuring his longsword, swivelling about on one foot to face off against the Harad woman. Grey orbs narrow, and the Captain holds his ground, wary of the archers nearby undoubtedly trying to find a good vantage point from which to fire at Faramir. "Be gone from this place, Woman!" calls the Captain of Ithilien. "All you shall find at my hands is your Doom."

[Imrakhor(#30834)]  

Amroth's surge does not abate. Men fall, as men have fallen before and will fall again, and are trampled underfoot. But the mass of Swansmen move.

The Knight-Captain swipes a wide arc with the flag and is stuck by an arrow. He breaks the long shaft and lets his own blood intermingle with the rest.

"(Haradaic) Lady Farside is upon the rooftops," Nisrin tells Yildirim, and if he allows it she is clinging anxiously to prop him up. "(Haradaic) That ... that is the Knight-Captain. They have emerged from Caldur at last."

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

The Knights break free of their prison and begin their battle to meet their comrades in arms. The Army of Gondor's lines do not break, the men of Gondor trained well and battle with a staunch heart. But skill and heart matter only so much as a fresh wave of Haradrim press into the corridor from numerous crevasses and cracks in and between the many buildings. For those with an eye for Haradrim markings, they are Farside... and this is their home.

Though Gondor is able to hold their lines, they suffer dearly for it as hundreds fresh and anew press the attack.

[Helchir(#30487)]  

An arrow pelts against his cover, splintering into pieces, as Helchir turns his head away in haste. The green mask hides his gritting teeth, but not the wooden shards sprinkle his temple. But on the other side of the pillar a new sight emerges. Lo! Amroth's Knights emerge. 

Heartened by this turn of events, Helchir abandons his protected position with bow string drawn. His aim lends cover to the rallying Knights, and finds a familiar target in Eron. "Up here, foe! The time for battle has come, and now no parlay exists between us." He releases the shaft.

Helchir launches an arrow...

Helchir's bowshot hits Eron, lightly wounding him.

[Eron(#24786)]  

Eron has bended bow to throw a missle again towards the charging knight-captian, but the call from Helchir pulls his attention just as an arrow glances off of chain, and flies off. "No Parlay is needed here..." Eron growls as he reels the bended bow away from Imrakhor and looses it's load against Helchir.

Eron launches an arrow...

Eron's bowshot hits Helchir, mildly wounding him.

[(#24191)] "(Haradaic) That man... I must kill him," Yildirim says, attempting to stand on his own, but his legs have not the will of his word and he falters, collapsing onto Nisrin. He looks up helplessly at her, "(Haradaic) Help me kill him."

[Aearon(#16333)] 

The Gondorian army uses the narrow corridor to their advantage, relying upon the time testes shield wall of the Hosts to hold back the Haradrim forces, they may outnumber them greatly but that means little in such small quarters. Those that fall are quickly replaced by a new man who continues to fight. The corridor and barricade has done the job, their lines may be thinned but still they hold!

[Azradi(#20135)] 

"This is my city! My land!" answers Azradi in Westron, her gray eyes ablaze with anger and battle-fire. "You trespass and the penalty is death!"

That anger is honed and used it does not interfere with her attack. With smooth power, she sweeps her curved blade in, seeking Faramir's sword-arm.

Azradi attacks Faramir with her Scimitar, but she misses by a handspan.

"(Haradaic) Look at yourself, Yildirim! That is hubr..." Nisrin cries angrily, hot tears threatening to spill. The girl bites her lip, steeling herself to become grim and calm, and begins to shuffle towards the hasty barricades that line the streets. "(Haradaic) Yes. I will help you."

[Imrakhor(#30834)]  

The Knight-Captain says nothing.

His blade and the flag of his Order sing a grisly tale in the silence.

[Faramir(#10683)] 

Yet, that sword arm is withdrawn even before the scimitar bites the air where it had been moments before, drawn deftly back towards the tall form of Farmir. Grey orbs settle upon the woman, and a shake of his head is given. "I offered you your life, Woman. But you have asked for naught but your own Doom." Circling a little, he places Azradi betwixt himself and the archers on the rooftop beyond. "So shall you have what you desire." With these final words, the Captain's sword sweeps across, aimed in a diagonal stroke across Azradi's stomach.

Faramir attacks Azradi with his Longsword, but Azradi parries the attack with her Scimitar!

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

A nod and then Yildirim climbs again up and over the barricade, free from the shield wall and the Gondorian spears. His blade digs into the dirt as he stands, pulling his ruined helm from his skull, blood matting the length of his hair. He looks behind for Nisrin and waits.

[Helchir(#30487)]  

An eye for an eye. The Serpent Guard's aim is true, and the missile pierces Helchir's calf. The impact forces him off balance and the Ranger tumbles upon the roof, sliding off its slope and onto a fortunately placed wagon below. He bites hard as he snaps off the arrows tail, then quickly slides off onto the ground below. Bow is exchanged for blade, and with weakened but determined steps he joins the Knight-Captain at his side. 

To the Knight a shoulder is lent, and to his foes he offers only the pain of his sword. Its edge will not permit any near the wounded warrior. "Forward!" he calls, looking back at the men. Then, "Forward." he speaks to Imrakhor beside him with a nod.

Nisrin climbs up shortly after blood follows them both. Grimly she nods to Yildirim, slight figure swathed in ashy smoke.

[(#24191)] "(Haradaic) Come," Yildirim says, and he leads her back again into the streets away from the battle.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

The Lieutenant continues to direct the Army, sending soldiers where they are needed most. Fresh shieldmen to the lines where the Haradrim press the attack, archers all about the army where they might find better vantage points from where to fire from. The wounded are being moved to the middle of the large formation, where they are being treated as best as can be expected, and still the Gondorian men fight on, holding their position and taking what they can.

[Eron(#24786)]  

"No no.. You're not getting off so easily Woodsmen..." Eron growls as he discards his own bow, and draws sword and shiled on the run, in an attempt to cut off Helchir before he joins the lines. "We have unfinished business. you and I."

Eron attacks Helchir with his Scimitar and moderately wounds him!

[Imrakhor(#30834)]  

"They try to kill me, you see," says the Knight to the Ranger.

He offers no further words, but his men follow the order and move forward.

 

[Helchir(#30487)]  

Eron's scimitar takes a taste out of Helchir's shoulder, sending a splatter of blood in all directions. The fury of a Western wind musters in him, though it shows only in his livid eyes, for the Cold Lord bears ever a stone countenance. The longsword clenched in his gauntlet lifts into the air and slashes down at his enemy.

Helchir attacks Eron with his Longsword, but he misses by an arm's length.

[Faramir(#10683)] 

Swift and deadly is the Captain of Ithilien, and though his stroke did not take the woman's abdomen as he'd intended, neither does her strike take his thigh. His left foot slides towards him, easily drawing his leg from the thrust of the simitar. In one swift motion, his right steps to the side, causing the Ranger to lean in that direction. With Azradi's sword extended, and naught but her shield betwixt him and the Haradhrim's left side, Faramir thrusts his longsword inwards towards her side, intending to strike inwards behind the shield with the sudden shift of his weight to that side. "One does not choose when their Doom befalls them. Indeed, Doom chooses those it deems ready to pass to the other side."

Faramir attacks Azradi with his Longsword and badly wounds her!

[Eron(#24786)]  

Eron twists his body as brings a leg in behind him, letting the blade of Ithillien pass him by. The Serpent Commander has nothing to say either, instead ot brings the blade back to swing a swcond time, looking to loop and slash downward, to cripple the legs of Helchir.

Eron attacks Helchir with his Scimitar, but he misses by an arm's length.

[Helchir(#30487)]  

Perhaps it is a strange fate that the Ranger's leg be previously wounded, for even as he sets weight upon it in reaction to the attack, it falters and forces his other leg to shift.. taking it immediately out of Eron's reach. Without setting his stance, Helchir aims for a quick jab up into his opponent's loins.

Helchir attacks Eron with his Longsword, but Eron parries the attack with his Scimitar!

[Imrakhor(#30834)]  

Imrakhor's face is a mask of blood. He swings again and again.

[Eron(#24786)]  

A man with no children protects his loins! Eron takes a half step back to perform a rolling parry, twisting to guide Helchir's blade up, and away from his man bits. "You're not that good..." Eron growls as he disengadges his blade only to reverse the momentum of the Scimitar, to try to draw the sword across Helchir's swordarm.

Eron attacks Helchir with his Scimitar, but Helchir parries the attack with his Longsword!

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

Again Yildirim stalks towards his target, the Bragollach Lord becoming nearer with each ragged step, staying out of the attention of the other Knights, until he finds himself near Imrahkor, distracted in his blood-play. Yildirim attacks.

Yildirim attacks Imrakhor with his Scimitar and moderately wounds him!

[Imrakhor(#30834)]  

Imrakhor is taken at the shoulder and cries out, throwing his blade back at his attacker. The banner of Amroth is dropped in the spastic movement.

Imrakhor attacks Yildirim with his Longsword, but he misses by a long shot.

 

And Nisrin, as bound by her word, follows suit, small figure bobbing and weaving where taller ones might be cut. Coming with Yildirim, she slashes out at Imrakhor's blood-dressed body, scorn in her laugh.

You attack Imrakhor with your Scimitar...

Imrakhor dodges your attack.

[Helchir(#30487)]  

A mere lowering of his hand brings his opponent's blade against his own. Metal rebounds off of metal and creates space enough to parry. Taking the high guard, Helchir swings down at Eron's sternum.

Helchir attacks Eron with his Longsword, but he misses by a handspan.

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

"Do you remember this face, Knight?" Yildirim questions, his blade slicing out again at the Knight-Captain.

Yildirim attacks Imrakhor with his Scimitar, but Imrakhor parries the attack with his Longsword!

[Aearon(#16333)] 

The order is given, and a number of Gondorian soldiers break ranks and rush to the aid of the Swans, they run as fast as they can. Some fall from arrows but most reach the Swans and join in the fighting, slashing out with their swords and spears trying to give the swans time to join the Army as a whole. 

[Azradi(#20135)] 

Lady Farside attempts to lower her shield but is too late, the Ranger's strike is true. She cries out in pain, staggering back. Weakly, she strikes out to keep her opponent at bay while she manages her pain.

Already a number of Farside soldiers are beginning to clamber up to the roof - called to defend their Lady by her officers. Her remaining archers shift position to let fly arrows towards the man.

Azradi attacks Faramir with her Scimitar, but Faramir parries the attack with his Longsword!

[Eron(#24786)]  

Helchir's attack was perfect. but it is becoming clear that Eron is a seasoned warrior. Instead of stepping away to regain a defendable position, he passes through, bringing his body clear of the attack from the Gondorian, as well as giving him a 'side' position upon Helchir. From his position, Eron thrusts, trying to puncture the side of the man while taking a half step back to give himself more space as well.

Eron attacks Helchir with his Scimitar, but he misses by a mile.

[Faramir(#10683)] 

And Faramir is swift, snatching up his bow in the lull of battle when Azradi is stumbling back, and nimbly avoiding the retributive blow. As the other Farsiders descend upon him, Faramir is soon gone, running from rooftop to rooftop, disappearing to provide cover fire from a discreet distance to aid the Gondorians at street level.

[Imrakhor(#30834)]  

The Knight-Captain is ready now and weaves away from Nisrin with the shiftiness of a trained pugilist. His sword is then thrown into the air and to deflect away Yildirim. "Was it your brother? A sister? A mother? Father?"

He swings as he speaks.

Imrakhor attacks Yildirim with his Longsword, but Yildirim parries the attack with his shield!

[Helchir(#30487)]  

Helchir accepts the dance, and politely bows out of the way of his partner's thrust. A concealed dagger slides into his hand, and just as quick is sent through the air at Eron's direction.

Helchir throws a dagger...

Helchir's dagger flies wide, doing no harm.

 

A hiss of frustration from the corsair girl Nisrin, and she pushes back towards the Knight-Captain and his fallen flag, stabbing at his arm.

You attack Imrakhor with your Scimitar...

Imrakhor dodges your attack.

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

Imrakhor's blade crushes against the Corsair's shield, as it is lifted to protect his face, "It is no matter. I will have my revenge and," Yildirim motions to the Knight-Admiral badge upon his bloodied breast, "Another trinket," a cough, "For my collection." And as Nisrin strikes towards him, he takes the chance and swings low towards the thighs of the Knight.

Yildirim attacks Imrakhor with his Scimitar and mildly wounds him!

[Eron(#24786)]  

The dagger is unseen, but luck is with the southron as his body reacts to take him out of the path of the blade, and he slashes at the elusive Ranger once again, looking to force the man's chest to split open.

Eron attacks Helchir with his Scimitar and lightly wounds him!

[Imrakhor(#30834)]  

Yildirim's attack glances hard off of the Knight-Captain's armor, as he seeks to keep both that man and Nisrin at bay. He is pressed to his heels.

With a surge, he seeks to turn the tides and his blade twists at Yildirim.

Imrakhor attacks Yildirim with his Longsword and terribly wounds him!

 

The girl howls like a wounded cat as the Knight-Captain's sword so deftly twists, but not at her. Nisrin ducks low brings a furious blade to thrust at Imrakhor's side.

"I will slay you," she rasps, Westron accented heavily with thirst for blood.

You attack Imrakhor with your Scimitar...

Your attack against Imrakhor moderately wounds him!

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

Yildirim watches Nisrin fight on, but he does not... He glances down at the large rent in his armor, bone clearly visible, and begins to stumble backwards, away from the the pair still fighting and the battle, until he falls in the blood-wet earth alongside the road.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

As the first group of Swans begin to join the rest of the Gondorian Army the Shield wall begins to collapse around them, defending the wounded and beaten Knights, shouts can he heard coming from the commanders "Pull back!!" waiting a moment they begin to pull back, slowly, holding the lines while they withdraw. 

[Eruphel(#20109)] 

"Nisrin!" The sound of the Seaward Lady can be heard from not far away, and she charges forward, her clothing covered in blood. At least some of it is hers, as one arrow wound on her upper shoulder still oozes a thick blood. Scimitar in hand, she charges toward the young woman. But when she arrives, its her opponent, the Swan Knight, that she swings the bloody Devilblade of Umbar at Imrakhor, trying to put herself between the knight and the young woman.

[Helchir(#30487)]  

The emblem of the White Tree is slashed across its trunk upon his leather torso. Its leafless branches bleed out onto the tanned hide, and for a moment the Dunedain withers. But as the men of the Silver Ship approach and the Knights push on, many come between Helchir and his foe, and the former is swept up in the tide. The Ranger presses for Imrakhor and makes to carry the man if need be into the arms of their saviors. "You have no more blood to spare, Hir Knight."

Eruphel attacks Imrakhor with her Scimitar and mildly wounds him!

[Imrakhor(#30834)]  

"Yes, yes. Of course you will, young lioness," answers the Knight-Captain dismissively. So dismissive that the lady bites fresh steel across his side!

He lashes out at her, while moving to squeeze into the collapsing wall.

But instead of Nisrin, the blow comes at the interceding Eruphel!

Imrakhor attacks Eruphel with his Longsword, but he misses by an arm's length.

[Eron(#24786)]  

Eron is also swept up in the fray of bodies, and is forced to engage anyone who comes in his way, as he would have to from this moment until the last of Gondor falls.

[Aearon(#16333)] 

The Gondorian army slowly pulls back, the shield wall holding strong as they backstep slowly waiting for the rest of the Swans to join the ranks before they fully commit to the withdrawal.

Nisrin growls, steel flashing in feral eyes yet now Eruphel is between herself and the Knight-Captain, who himself seems to disappear into a wall of shields. The White Tree emblazoned upon them holds firm, unyielding.

[Eruphel(#20109)] 

Eruphel's strike lands a glancing blow, but the knight's returning swing is narrowly avoided. "Nisrin, you will retreat. In fact, find Eron. I'm not leaving till you leave." All this is said as she throws her shield up toward Imrakhor's face, a sort of blinding feint as she slips her scimitar out lower, thrusting toward his abdomen.

Eruphel attacks Imrakhor with her Scimitar, but Imrakhor parries the attack with his Longsword!

 

Glowering still at the shield-wall, Nisrin slips grudgingly away. But she is not gone to seek her brother -- instead to find the fallen Captain of the Arambodh.

[Imrakhor(#30834)]  

"Wait, Ranger," says the Knight-Captain, who then guides the Lady Seaward's blade away from his body. He leaps out for the Order's banner now splayed across the ground, grabs it and uses his blade to push out at Eruphel to regain his position aside Helchir and within the shield wall.

Imrakhor attacks Eruphel with his Longsword, but he misses by a mile.

[Eruphel(#20109)] 

Her sword deflected, Eruphel jumps back as Imrakhor bounds for the banner, not understanding his intent. But as he reaches his prize, a thought comes to mind. "All this, for a piece of cloth?" she asks, slicing her blade downward, to strike him if she can, and to rend the obviously prized banner in two if she cannot.

Eruphel attacks Imrakhor with her Scimitar and moderately wounds him!

[Helchir(#30487)]  

Helchir looks on somewhat in dismay as the Knight returns for his banner. Yet alas, he chases after. Though it is not for the Knight that he does so, but for his trusty dagger laying still in the dirt. Then on a turn he retreats behind the wall of shields.

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

Yildirim is where is fell. He breathes, coarsely, but still, seemingly asleep under the dawn's light.

[Imrakhor(#30834)]  

"A fool's judgement, that this is only a piece of cloth," says Imrakhor as Eruphel catches his leg in departure. He limps into the shield wall.

But his voice is still heard: "It is the cloth for which we fight."

[Aearon(#16333)] 

With all of the surviving swans within the ranks, the Gondorian Army begins a full scale withdrawal, the shieldwall staying strong as they now backstep at a quicker pace, archers fire but a few arrows at this point, they are more warning shots. Though the lines have been heavily thinned and a number of good men lost, the Army quickly and strategically moves back. 

[Eruphel(#20109)] 

Tired, dirty, bloody, Eruphel is glad for a good excuse to stop fighting, and does not pursue Imrakhor any further. Rather, she turns and looks for Eron, and then for Nisrin, who she expects nearby. But the girl is not obviously seen. "I need a healer!" she calls out, as she hurries for the heart of her own camp.

 

Nisrin slips quietly to where Yildirim lies, looking down with a heavy sigh. "I could not kill him, Captain," she says quietly, taking hold of his sleeve, attempting to drag his weight back towards the unbloodied streets.

[Yildirim(#24191)] 

Luckily, the captain is slender and slides easily through the dirt.