(M) Mossflower Tales: The Howl of War IC

[SikstaSlathalin]

Rated M for possible mature content including romance, violence, language, graphic situations, and drug use.


Mossflower Tales: The Howl of War
A Pre-Redwall, Redwall RP.



Goodbeasts of Mossflower, unite to save your homes from the Wolf of War!

The Redwall Wiki

The OOC is still open to sheets.

*Loamhedge*

"Mother Abbess?" A faint tired voice said from the other side of Sylvaticus's chamber door followed by a knock. The old mouse had been on the verge of exhaustion and forced to sleep by the residents of her Abbey. She fought them for a few hours, stating that she wouldn't sleep until everyone else was asleep. It would've worked too, had she not said this with her head resting on the long oak table of the Main Hall. Needless to say the Abbess was picked up by Jumo Broadpaddle the Gatekeeper in charge of the Abbey's Gates and Teldy Spike the Abbey's Cellarhog in charge of the Abbey's Cellars and resident Brewmaster. The two strong males had no problem lifting the revered Mother Abbess up into their arms and taking her to rest.

And despite herself she had not he energy to fight them, she was asleep before they even reached the Dormitory stairs. When the voice awoke her she could see the cold pale light of dawn through a crack in the tapestry over her window. Weather this was the dawn of or many days after it she didn't know.

Rolling stiffly to the edge of her bed she called to the intruder.
"Come on in Germaine, I am awake now." The door slowly opened and the abbess heard the soft shuffle of sandals on stone and the quick swish of a habit through the air, telling her its' wearer was moving quickly. The old Mouse grunted lightly and began putting her sandals on waiting for her forever working and fretting protege, but she was in charge of the Infirmary so the working and fretting was expected.

Germaine waited until the aged Mother was ready and helped her to her feet.
"It is good to see you getting some rest Mother Sylvaticus, sadly our trouble have refused to sleep. A large family of Mice have made their way to our walls. They have mostly young and old ones, and most of them are injured." The young mouse crinkled her stained apron up in her paws as had become her reaction to extreme stress in recent months.

Sylvaticus sighed tapping the young female's hands lightly to stop her fretting and moved to her door settling her clothing in place and splashing some cold water on her face.
"Calm down Germaine, we'll get through this. Gather those not critically hurt to the Great Hall to rest and bring the critical into the beds once they get cleaned up. Are there any sheets or blankets left?"

Germaine shook her head handing the older female a towel to dry with.
"No, any and all sheets have been cut up for bandages and the blankets are all being used. We've resorted to using the table clothes."

The Abbess hmmed softly drying her gray-furred face off before dropping the towel back into Germaine's paws.
"Add that to the stock-pile for bandages, now come with me. It looks to be about breakfast time, and some warm food would do wonders. For all of us."

Germaine nodded folding the towel up and placing it in her wide sleeves as she followed the Mother Abbess down the steps from the Dormitories. The abbey was old and built of faded white stone, quarried a few miles west of the Abbey. Inside there are many rooms, each with it's own function, and each with it's own caretaker.

The Upper floors were the roof's crawlspace and attic, and the belfry. They're mostly used for storage and repairs of the big bell used to mark wake-up, meal times, bedtime, or important or urgent events. The next level was the dormitories, infirmary, and library. Sister Fim keeps the dorms clean and makes sure the dibbuns are all in bed on the threat of spankings which many a poor babe have learned aren't empty. Germaine keeps the Infirmary, and Brother Eljax the Squirrel Recorder has turned the library into his own little kingdom.

The bottom floor is dominated by the Great Hall, Kitchens, and Apiary. While no one actually rules over the Great Hall it's kept clean and the fires lit by Teldy Spike. But both the kitchens and Apiary fall under Friar Tug the Dormouse's sphere of influence. Below the main floor lies the Cellars and Haven Hall. Teldy is the first and last to say anything that goes on beyond the cellar doors, and the Haven Hall is kept clean by the Kitchen staff since it is used for most meals.

Outside the walls of the main building there is the lawns, orchards, the river, and gatehouse. Aside from Jumo's gatehouse Swifty Bushtail the Groundskeeper takes care of the lawns, orchards, and fishes out of the river for shrimp and water plants. As the pair of females reached the bottom of the steps Sylvaticus let out a deep sigh and hitched up her long sleeves. The great hall was being used as a refugee camp, beasts sleeping against the walls, grave bandaged faces staring off into the distance with hollow eyes, and healthy residents helping the sick and injured. It was grim, but as long as the Abbey stood strong and free hope would never die. With a final nod to the younger mouse the Abbess joined her in the daily duties of healing and helping.


*Brockhall*

In the Northeast region of Mossflower woods lies the grand home of the Brock Family of Badgers. Rulers of the Woods and the noblest of it's inhabitants. Lord Zyin Brock and Lady Sable Brock called the hollowed out tree home and opened it up to anyone who couldn't flee the ravages of the Horde. They were in a better shape than the residents of Loamhedge, but only just. Their walls were also packed with the wails of hungry babes and the moans of wounded beasts.

Mercenaries working for food and board, wanderers willing to join the fight as long as they have badgers and fighting hares at their sides, and the desperate just holding on until they can outrun the Wolf's Army. Guards roamed at all hours and hit squads were sent out to hunt down those the Lonesome Tribe couldn't catch. It would keep them alive for a little bit longer, but even they wouldn't be able to fight off the bulk of the Horde when it came upon them.

Dawn was well on it's way over Brockhall's canopy, the guard were just about to change shifts and Lady Brocktree was roaming the grounds carrying some hot food and drink to the weary guards. She was ever inch the Badger Queen. Heavy violet robes over a full suit of finely crafted chainmail, she was in high-heeled leather boots and carried a long thin blade at her hip. She was carrying a large tray of Honey and chestnut scones and hot cider. She had been taking it upon herself to take care of the Guards herself when she could. It helped with loyalty and trust amongst the Mercs and desperate beasts that are temporarily calling Brockhall home.

The first warriors she met were a pair of Otter Twins from the South, looking for the Black Rudder Holt. Shatter and Sunder were all they called themselves, and the large hooked spears and heavy shields they carried told everyone how they got their names. They never spoke unless directly spoken too, the Badger Queen gave each of them some breakfast and a smile. The Otters took the offered food but gave only slow tight nods in response before marching back to their small tent on the grounds around the hall. Knowing better than to take offense Sable simply sighed and moved on with her food.

She made a full circuit around the Hall and soon all the guards were relieved and refreshed. Her tray was empty, but she didn't wish to return the tree just yet. Handing the empty tray off to a squire she moved herself to the wooden gates and leaned on the ramparts leaning over the arch gazing out over the misty woodlands. Despite all the horror that was creepy it's way through the shadows of the trees, one couldn't help but notice how mighty and beautiful the ancient forest looked. And the gentle snow of winter only added to that. The bare trees looking like skeletons frozen in time and the snow draped over them like massive cloaks. It was her favorite time of year, she just wished it was tarnished by the filth of the Wolf and his Horde.

She was lost in a daydream when she heard someone hailing her name. After blinking a few times she looked down and saw a Scout from Captain Winnfield's Hunting Party.
"Hail young miss, what brings you here? Is everything all right?"

The young Haremaid was named Rainala Windjumper Bladespinner Solloway or "Raina" for short. She was remarkably fast and best known for her long hooked sword that she wielded by spinning it over her head and acting like a twister of death on the battlefield.

The young female tosses up a salute before responding.
"All is well m'lady, just popping in with a report. We've rounded up and grounded the blackguards we found snooping around the Hall. The Capt is just fetchin' after and stompin' down the quicker of the scoundrals. Alls well on the western font wot wot."

Lady Brock smiled at the Hare and climbed down the steps opening the gate.
"Good to hear lass, get yourself inside and warm up. You did well." She patted the maid's back usering her in before shutting the gates behind her.

"Thank ye kindly Lady Brock, runnin' always works up a tremendous hunger." With that the Scout trotted inside eager for a full belly. Lady Sable pulled her robes more about her body and went back to checking the grounds.

[DEAFHPN]

*Loamhedge*

Crow, or Root most beasts he knew well like his Mother usually called him crow, most of the inhabitants of the Abby referred to him as Root if they didn't know him personally. Most of them thought he's slow, or has bees in his brain. Still he had been the one to steal the armor from the Abby several months ago. No one really talked about it, and he had forgotten about it as of late. Still he had painted his face white with black stripes running down the side. The young squirrel grumbled he had three good blankets with him. But that's not what bothered him, theirs a smell in the air.

The smell of blood, and sickness but its not minimal even if he did feel pride at his feat. He still cared for the inhabitance in the Abby a lot more so. He's usually someone in the background but he gather's all of his possessions before wrapping the blankets up tightly. Abandoning the armor behind he broke into a crawl running up the side of a tree. He could see loamhedge from his spot perched like an owl he sniffed the air. The scent got stronger from his position.

Deciding it might not be the best idea to sneak up a tree and find his way in on his own for once he decided to go to the front gate. "Hello?" he called wondering if any beast is awake if not he supposed he could come back later. If they'd let him in. "Is the hollows still singing in your ears, or is it time to awaken spot?" he calls out his tone loud he lifts his nostrils up in the air.

"Is their a clever beast near by?" He tries again sitting back he sniffed the air, wondering if they needed more spice he hadn't brought one with him. Usually he did, his Mother would be angry if she found out but the scent of blood seemed more a pressing matter. But then again it might be his blood next if his Mother finds him here without one. "One most certainly more clever then I!"

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Brockhall

Ninavin wasn't a coward by no means however she wasn't suicidal either which is a wonder since she hadn't seen or heard anything about her siblings, or her Father. But it wasn't as if she could walk up to some good beast and ask them. Not without a proper disguise anyways so instead she had decided to patrol the road where most of the refuges would take shelter. Making sure that they had all their need, she stayed hidden unless someone needed help. Her rat like tail is hidden beneath torn rags, her face is covered by the mask of a wolf.

Still the weather had turned and hot steam escapes her mouth she sits squatting in place she had made some shelter to protect her from the winds. It's crude at best but its a few noticeable degrees warmer inside. She created two holes for peeping while this made her feel weird it's all for the best. She looks like some fantastic beast that crawled out of a hole, thought he hatred for the wolf is growing by each passing day.

Winter had just begun so it's not really cold yet but its enough that she has to wear this smelly old thing.If she had another type of armor she'd use it. But wolf armor went for cheap now and days. Which is the only reason why she had been able to buy it the poor hare had been so terribly frightened he had only picked up half of his coins.

Running a hand through her bag the taste of the cold winds made her stomach grumble she still had three pastries, a loaf of bread left. Some cheese, dried meat from her stores, she had gathered a lot of food in her childhood home before coming here. It took her at least three days. But rations are running out so she might have to return home. In three foot of snow it would be possible for travel.

It's not as if she can go talk to them, she's brave enough to fight her own kind. But when it came to talking to good beasts she just couldn't do it. A part of her hoped to see a familiar face among the crowd of refugees at least. Perhaps the hare she had met before if they had survived his name had been Greybeard...but she'd doubt she'd see him.

[ARCTrooper1992]

Captain Forbes Barclay

Over at the border between Lomhedge and Moss Flower the front half of a ship has washed up onto the beach while the other half is lost to the sea. On the front of the ship is a flag with a shield with a skull on it with a twenty seven on the skull's forehead, two swords that cross over the back of the shield, and on the top it says "Only the dead see the end." Slowly riding the soft breeze. Through out the beach supplies, wood, and bodies of mice are slowly washing up onto the beach. Just under the sails of the ship. Forbes is laying on the beach still unconsious from the wreck while the rest of the survivors are treating the wounded, gathering supplies, burying the dead, or pulling security.

"Sir wake up. Wake up." A mouse named Scarecrow says to Forbes as he shakes him to wake him up. Scarecrow is Forbes's second in command and the two have been fighting side by side ever since training.

"Gypsy no..........I will come home......................." Forbes mutters in his sleep twitching a bit as Scarecrow continues to shake him.

"Sir you NEED to wake up. Your soldiers need you. Get up. Get the HELL UP!" Scarecrow yells at Forbes now shaking him hard. Then as soon as Forbes wakes up he quickly pulls his knife out, tackles Scarecrow to the ground, and holds his knife at Scarecrow's throat breathing very heavily. "Sir! It's me First Lieutenant Scarecrow! Your second in command!" Scarecrow yells at Forbes who looks at him for a moment before letting him go and putting his knife away and sitting down next to him.

"Sorry brother............I had that dream again........................What happened and where the hell are we..." Forbes asks Scarecrow as he looks to see only ten other survivors and gets up.

"No it's good... I know she's been on your mind for a while. However we've got bigger problems. Our ship went down during the storm and we managed to be washed up here. So far we have no idea where exactly where we are at and so far we are all that's left. You've got hurt pretty good yourself sir, but it's nothing too serious. So far only two of our boys are critically hurt and the rest suffered some cuts, bruises, and a nice scare. As for our dead only forty of our dead have washed up onto the beach and probably more are on the way." Scarecrow replies to Forbes as he gets up ready to go.

Forbes looks down to see his himself patched up on his side, left leg, and right arm before nodding. "Alright first things first. You two go gather supplies from the wreckage. You three go out and bury our dead. The rest of you grab your gear and equipment and set up a small perimeter. Do not fight unless there's no other option. Scarecrow I need you to help with our two criticals and see if we can move them out as soon as possible." Forbes says to the group and with that the men quickly set out to do their jobs.


Abi

Meanwhile in the forest Abi is walking down the forest with her cloak wrapped around her body. For the last few days Abi has been walking in the forest low on food and supplies. To make things even worse is that Abi hasn't had a job in a good while so her funds are nearly dry. After a bit of walking Abi spots the walls to the Abby and quickly runs towards it. Once at the walls Abi stops and looks for any guards to see if there's anyone there. "Oi!!!! Is there anyone home?!!!!! Just a wee mercinary looking for a place to get warmed up!!!!" Abi yells as she starts to look for a way in.

[P.K.]

The crisp morning air found Moonflower trudging through the snow bundled up heavily against the cold as she peered around the forest. The wind was cold in the bare woods, Though the occasional fir and pine tree added splashes of green against the cold white snow. She managed to gather some herbs from under the fallen snow, but she knew she wouldn't be able to keep this up for long as the plants died and slept under the white blanket. After a long while of following her old tracks back she spotted the little house with smoke rising from the Chimney.
"Home." She breathed sadly watching through her misted breath as a shadow passed over the windows. She frowned hopping that Spearmint was alright as she picked up the pace.

Opening the door Moonflower shed her coat and shook the snow off before closing the door. "Spearmint, Are you alright?" She asked looking to her brother who was sitting next to the fire clutching their fathers sword.

"Why wouldn't I be?" He grunted. "No one ever comes around here." Spearmint turned his head in his sister's direction with a frown. "I know... I'm sorry." She said moving over to the kitchen before hanging up the herbs to dry. "I have to make another trip out to gather more wood from the sea shore..."

"I can do that." Spearmint said standing and carefully putting the sword on his belt. "Bu-" "No buts! I'm not helpless moon!" He snapped before marching for the door. It was a good thing he knew the house rather well, they never moved the furniture around. snatching at his coat he tugged it on with a little difficulty. "Spearmint its to cold!" "I'll be fine! the coat did you good it well keep me warm to!" He fumbled for the door before dashing out as his sister tried to pull him back in.

"I'll be back!" He called over his shoulder. "With plenty of fire wood!" His whiskers twitched as he headed down to the beach. He knew where he was going, him and moonflower had played in these woods growing up.. he knew how to get around.

A short while later Spearmint stumbled onto the sand catching his foot on a rock and tripping onto the sand. "Ow...." Sitting up he rubbed his foot. There wasn't as much snow on the beach but the air was still cold and the frothy water the sprayed the air when it crashed onto the beach made it even more so. Grumbling again spearmint picked himself up and began to feel around for drift wood and maybe some fresh seaweed, though he wasn't sure it be any good if he did find some. His hands became cold fast from the wetness but he did his best to ignore it. "I can take care of myself... Moon doesn't have to worry about me." He growled finding another piece and adding it to the load in his arms.

[Setsa]

Loamhedge Abbey

Lanissa


Loamhedge Abbey, to many it was a safe haven, place to look upon with awe that would humble any beast. For Lanissa, it had been her home ever since the feline could remember. She knew that the Abbess took her in where she was a mere, weak kitten. The truth told to her when she was old enough to understand. Truth be told or not, her oath and loyalty was pledge to the Abbess and Loamhedge Abbey. For they creatures were her family, and anyone that came in she welcomed with a soft purr if they be here for refuge. More and more seemed to come for that very reason as of late...the sick and hungry filling the Great Hall. Of course there was another side to everything one sees about in these lands and beyond. Vermin that sought to claim everything with their own greedy paws and weapons that have taken the blood of any that resisted let alone stood up against. Those...those vermin, she would do anything to keep them away from the walls of the abbey itself.

Having been up since the grey of dawn, the gentle cat would relieve those posted at the front gate. “Go on now” she’d purr softly in tone “Friar Tug is sure to have some hot tea and honey oat cakes ready for you all.” Be it meager rations, the cook always did his best to make every meal seem like a feast in it’s own rights. With thanks from the chilled mouse and hedgehog whom were up nearly all night; warmed only by a small fire. The tabby female with only a cloak given to her by the Loamhedge sisters years ago, would see to it that all the night guards got inside from her view point. Before adding in another log or two into the small fire, warmth to her… Perhaps a beacon of hope to others within the forest. Curling up into a tight ball of fur with eyes looking out from a gap in the stones made for lookouts and twang of arrows.

When she began to settle in and warm up a flash of red approaching would take hold of her attention. That squirrel Root had returned but it seemed he had a fair amount with him, certainly more than just spices. With an inhale, she couldn’t even smell any spices about him. ‘Odd’ she thought to herself, ‘wonder what this visit is all about?’

Knowing full well that Root preferred to stay alone, Lanissa still respected his loyalty to the Abbey. Even if they had strained encounters from time to time.

"Is their a clever beast near by?" …….. "One most certainly more clever then I!"

Calling voice to the gate breaking her from her curled up form. Moving to stand up upon her hind legs, one paw waving to catch his attention from above. “Well I never would say I am smarter than any other creature you bushed up Root. But I’m coming down to open the gate, just hold your tail.”

A flash of fur was all left to be seen upon the top of the wall before she went down the stone staircase along the inner wall. Past the gatehouse that with no sounds of movement, had her assume the record keeper had opted for the warmth of the library that night. Moving some snow aside from the Abbey doors to assure she should open it enough for Squirrel. It seemed that by the time the doors were open, that another creature had arrived. Another squirrel with brown colored fur.

“Do calm yourself miss, all that come in good faith and kindness are welcomed to Loamhedge Abbey. Come quickly inside the both of you, so we can get some vittles and health seen back in those tails.” The cat would usher, promptly closing the door behind her after the two came inside to the snow covered lawn. “Do not be frightened young squirrel miss, for I am Lanissa, gentle cat to Loamhedge. Friar Tug should be having breakfast nearly set out by now, I suggest you pick up the pace if you want to miss the scramble of Dibbuns to the table.” Leading the way by their paces in hospitable fashion as the snow crunched under the pads of her boots.

[vietmyke]

Loamhedge Abbey, one of the last remaining havens for goodbeasts in the area, the other being the neighboring Brockhall. Both had been quite beleaguered by the vermin hordes, and were sorely running low on pretty much everything that was needed. Food, medicine, manpower, the only thing the Abbey wasn't short on were refugees. The sick, the tired, the scared, they all took up residence within the walls of the Abbey, sleeping in the Great Hall as the kind Abbess nobly attempted to divide resources amongst them.

However, to say that Loamhedge was being overcrowded would have been false, every day more and more of the sick and weak died, whether from lack of medicine, or to the cold and conditions. The majority of the people at Loamhedge were sick or weak, and the daily burdens were spread amongst the tired shoulders of those who remained.

The Black Rudder Otter Holt had been in something of a rut this past month, though almost everybeast had been going through tough times this winter. The vermin hordes had invaded and killed and pillaged at such a rapid rate, many believed there was little that could be done to stop them. During the first weeks the warring vermin had arrived, the Black Rudder Otters joined up with several other holts as they attempted to fight off the vermin. A month later, half a dozen Otter Holts had been reduced to a single Holt, with no more than a score of otters left. The otter remnants retreated to Loamhedge, and have been helping to shore up their defenses and help around wherever else they could.

Having been integrated with the residents of Loamhedge, the Black Rudder Otter's Skipper had joined a small, psuedo council with the Abbess and the other leaders and prominent figures of the abbey, while his otters helped out wherever they could, to the best of their abilities. As some of the few capable fighters in the abbey, the Otters often picked up guard duties, embarked on reconnaissance missions, and even trained some of the older youths with weapons.

---

Loamhedge Lawn

In the wide, open area of Loamhedge's lawn, Gil, and a Hare stood watching a small group of youths practice with wooden staves. When the youths were finished with their chores, or had free time, they would often come to the lawn to practice with weapons, and learn from one of the few Otters or Hares that had managed to make their way to Loamhedge. While Gil personally doubted that they would ever send such young youths into battle, the younglings enjoyed themselves immensely, and were often encouraged by the idea of being able to defend their loved ones. Gil had suggested training the youths to the Abbess, as a way to keep up what little morale there was in the Abbey. It warmed him to see such passion in mere children.

"Careful Sran, don't swing so wildly!" Gil called out, as a wooden staff flew from the paws of a young mouse, and bounced harmlessly off the side of the cat Lanissa, who was welcoming in Root, and another squirrel, one Gil had not seen before. Gesturing to Sran, Gil called out. "Well? Come along Sran, go apologize. The rest of you can go get breakfast, we'll continue after morning chores."

Walking up to Lanissa and the visitor, young Sran in tow, Gil smiled cheerily, "G'mornin Lanissa," he said as he began walking alongside the cat, nodding to the squirrels as well."and to you as well, my bushy tailed compatriots, may your tail stay that way for years to come."

"Hey!" Gil hissed, grabbing the tail of Sran, who tried to sneak away, "You don't get breakfast until you apologize like a proper goodbeast."

[DEAFHPN]

*Loamhedge*

Oh no, not her! Root thought at once seeing the cat the entire fur on his back side started to stand straight up. A shiver ran down his spine he tried to keep his anger inside but already it's showing also his heart beat has gone crazy up at the sight of a cat. Would any smart beast come into the cat's mouth? "How dark is the deepest hole where their is no joyful return," a little bit somber for him his tone is a bit disheartening but he still needs to go inside.

Her response is that of a good beast but she looks like a bad beast to Crow. All the same he kept his guard up around the feline. Hold his tail? Did that mean she wanted to bite it off, "Yes crafty beast," came his hot reply, "No one more craftier then you," he chanted with silent agreement. If she were to eat him she would have laid the perfect trap. Pretending to be a good beast, he would deserve to be eaten if thus is the case.

Still he felt himself relax when the old cat disappeared,Oi!!!! Is there anyone home?!!!!! Just a wee mercinary looking for a place to get warmed up!!!!" Abi yells as she starts to look for a way in. Crow jumps nearly his body weight into the air which is no easy feet with almost everything he owns on his back. Crow lets out a shriek and turns around with his fur on end his whiskers his head cocked to one side.

"What on earth? Is their a banshee inside of this quivling mouth? For a mouse I think not more of a shrieking bird," the words came out long winded as he eyed this new commer. Another squirel, and a female one at that. Still he had better things to do, but still his heart beat had become so painful in his chest he's sure to die upon it.

He didn't notice the flash of fur on the wall because he's too busy staring at the squirrel before him, "How loud and rash like a pack of wolves you may be," he continued on, "Not sweet like the nectar from a honey bee," he sighed at the nectar part licking his lips. "How good it is to be, something sweet as a honey bee."

Generally he'd rush right in but since the cat had opened it he bolted inwards his face dry from the white paint he had put on it. But before he could get scolded for being slow he darted inside,"inside, inside is the best place to be," he sang before stopping in the center things looked different here.

Crow looked like he might loose his head. "Oh clever beast with sharpened fangs, do you so happen to have a hungry belly?" he asked watching the cat with suspicious in his eyes, which is rare for Crow to be that way. He jumps about hearing her speak, "Good words for one more clever then I?" he hopped about the room.

So she could fatten them up and eat them. Their no good scrawny and bones he licked his lips at that, Nice words as he said. Still he can't keep his eyes off Lanissa the 'gentle' cat to loamhedge he let out a snort. Gentle cat? What gentle cat? All he heard is clever words, what if she eat him while he slept?

Breakfast? He sat up straighter a spark glistening in his eyes, "A feast for many the beasts shall feast," he let out a giggle of his own watching Lanissa from where he stood. "A sense of tale lead the starving bear to sweet sugar," he watched her for a second unsure of her this is the closest he's come to the cat. "Hmm, squirrels taste like ashes no good,"

He watched the clever master cat lead them into the death dungeons, but still his hunger carried his feet. "So clever a beast, the honey will be most sweet," he spoke out loud looking up at the wall, "Oh carry me through tethered winds, and winter halls,"

----------------------------------------------------------------

Brockhall

After some time of no travelers coming down the road Ninavin decided to pack up and leave. It took her some time to pack up all of her things in the end she had rolled them up so she could tie them on her back with a string. The cloth itself isn't all that heavy she can see some sticks that she's left behind. She had a nice snack of dried jerky before she walked along the tree line looking into the traveled path. Walking on she brought her tail down for once resting it in the snow. It's a wonder that it didn't stick that way permanently.

The most thing she missed about her family is having someone to talk to. The cloaked rat decided it be easier to walk among the path the snow would slow her down. Walking along she made her way further down in ten minuets her face is flustered and her tail might fall off, its pretty chilly here, perhaps she should make something to cover it up. All the same she continues her stride without fail.

After some time she came across a house.Two mice lived here, she had watched them from time to time. Wondering what she'd be like if she had been born a mouse, sadly this had not been the case. No matter how much she wanted she could not turn into a mouse. Sulking low she disappeared off into the woods using the rocks for cover.

A short while later Spearmint stumbled onto the sand catching his foot on a rock and tripping onto the sand. "Ow...." Sitting up he rubbed his foot. There wasn't as much snow on the beach but the air was still cold and the frothy water the sprayed the air when it crashed onto the beach made it even more so. Grumbling again spearmint picked himself up and began to feel around for drift wood and maybe some fresh seaweed, though he wasn't sure it be any good if he did find some. His hands became cold fast from the wetness but he did his best to ignore it. "I can take care of myself... Moon doesn't have to worry about me." He growled finding another piece and adding it to the load in his arms.


Niavin heard a sound like ouch? She carefully scrambled closer to the sound peering out from the ledge leaves and snow brushed her face. The wolf's head peered out as she watched. Here the ocean moved, she could see the water from where she sat among the rocks. Still she could see the mouse from here.

She smiled at that, "You are lucky," she spoke thoughtfully to herself but then scolded herself, what if he had heard her? she hadn't spoken very loudly but still it had just been so long. A tang of loneliness hit her. Stop, just stop it! She told herself her heart beat pounding in his chest. If he finds out that I'm a rat he will call for help. Ninavin thought to herself backing up a bit. The mouse is gathering wood all the same.

Closing her eyes she prayed that he hadn't heard her, a mistake she had been making more of lately. Gritting her teeth she covered her face with her hands.

[IejirKothar]

Blast this weather!" Winnfield swore clutching his patrol coat against a gust of wind. The vermin he had chased was more fleet of paw than he had anticipated. He should have known that these northern wretches were adept and traveling through deep snow. Patrols in winter were always slow especially if you left the trail. His troop was behind him, his size and stamina allowing him to outpace them but he always kept withing earshot as their point man. Winnfield never believed in leading from the rear the command should always be the first to draw their blade and the last to put it down. Of course in these times he had to excuse their badger queen, her place was with the others back home, best place for her honestly, though her size and strength were an asset they needed stealth more these days with the wolfs hoard in hiding.

Even so Winnfield was beginning to question their forced march back to Brockhall. He waited on the edge of the forest looking back over the snowy landscape until he made out the silhouettes of his troop, single file, Good beasts each of them. The lads and lasses had followed his instructions well. The snow could easily betray their numbers to any tracker best to leave them guessing. "HURRY UP YOU LAGGARDS!" He hollered out to them in a commanding tone. "MANY HUNGRY MOUTHS BACK HOME WITH A HEAD START ON YOUR RATIONS!" He shouted noticing a marked increase in their movements. He grinned slightly at that before moving through the trees already spotting Brockhall through the branches.

Once under the cover of the trees he made better time, less snow could drift through the canopy and all manner of forest beasts had tramped it down, as he approached the perimeter he gave the guards a cursory nod. "Scouts returning, still no sign of the wolfs main forces. I assume Lady Brocktree is tending to the others." He stated getting a curt nod in return.

Winnfield left the guard with instructions to send his troop to the dining hall and then to their bunks to rest. He himself made straight for the armory, as he usually did. Once there he shed his coat on a nearby chair and set to the wheel honing the edge of his Sabre. His ruby eyes focused on the blade but still seeing past it as his mind wandered back to the day he returned to his ravaged home. It was his practice of late to always ensure his weapons edge was keen enough to cut even a falling leaf, in fact a pile of leaves were kept in a basket nearby, watered to keep them from drying out.

[Setsa]

Brockhall

Trini Star

Trini Star had been in the back of the Brockhall Patrol Troop that Winnifield commanded on purpose. It wasn't because she was injured, or for reason of laziness within the hare. As Lieutenant, Trini was in the rear sweeping up their tracks with an old burlap sack that she weighted down with few select pebbles. Towing it behind herself while ducking here and there, checking her surroundings and rear for any stragglers be it vermin or gentle creature. Cloak around herself to help shield out the blasted icy air and wind. She could only tsk at her Winnifield as he tried to keep them moving back home. Once under the grove of trees that made up Mossflower Woods, the hare would give the weighted sack to a guard to place in storage. "Right then, up straight eyes o'er yonder. Tip top and all that wot?" She'd say to a squirrel whom took her sack to store up high to as not be seen.

Stepping into Brockhall, she could already hear the scrambling of dishes and like being moved about as the troop fell into their glutton ways. "Oy'! Make room hear now! Appetite or not you 'ave bested already thanked the cook.' Having spoken loud enough for the troop to hear well, Trini would use that brief moment to sit at an empty chair and get her share while apologies for their manners were made. "Top right now! Vittles here are the best though don be tellin' me own mum bout. Course, I don't think she'd disagree much either." Giggling with spark in her eye as the troop went back to eating.

Enjoying some savory scones with fresh cream in a bowl for proper dunking ratio. The Lieutenant would feel a tug upon the hem of her dress. "Hmm?" tilting her head to the side, enough to see under the table was two young mice dibbuns trying to get a little extra. "Please Tweeni 'ta " one would whisper to her. Their little pink tongued licking lips with wide eyes upon her custard covered scone in hand.

"Mmmph, what be dibbuns under this table for hmm? Get in trouble this morning already and had to dash off at breakfast without eating it all hmm?" The two dibbuns would nod. "We woke the squirrels up in the trees this morning with the 'thump thump thump!' of our swords on their trunk." The smaller mouse Bron would way drawing out his wooden sword from where it rested upon his belt to wave under the table. Smacking his brother on the head a tad.

Chuckling at their antics Trini Star would sit up right. Grabbing two oat cakes from the offered bowl in the middle of the table to slip them underneath. "Don't let Lady Brock catch you with them, be off in a dash now..go go!" Bron and his older brother Surinto would be off in a flash to munch elsewhere. Looking around though, she'd see one missing from their ranks. Gathering up a plate and a cup of hot tea, the gal would step off to the one place she knew to mind the Captain. Opening the door into the armory to be greeted by the sounds of steel being sharpened.

"Here Cap', brought you some vittles, custard and tea to set you straight. Can't be hav'in you go without and get crankier than a bee without a hive. On those troops next patrol, wot?" Giggling as was her nature to sit the goods down on a small wooden bench near Winnifield. Claiming a stool nearby as well. That look he had in his eyes when she came into the room...she'd seen it before in the bloke many enough times. "Cap' you and I been thru this before, t'wasn't your fault."

[ARCTrooper1992]

As soon as Forbes puts his armor and cloak on. Forbes picks up his gladius with his left hand, but when Forbes tries to lift his shield. Forbes feels a sharp pain from his side before dropping his shield. "Damn...... Alright Maximus come over here!" Forbes yells over to Maximus who quickly runs over to Forbes and stops in front of him.

"Yes sir?" Maximus asks Forbes who looks at him as he places his shield down.

"Maximus I need you to watch after the wounded while Scarecrow and I go out and scout the area. We will be back in an hour." Forbes says to Maximus who nods and takes over treating the wounded while Scarecrow goes out with Forbes to scout the area. As soon as Scarecrow is ready the two start to walk down the beach to see if there's a nearby town or docks near the wreckage. As the two walk with Scarecrow leading the way since he's the only one out of the two who can currently carry a shield. Forbes looks back at the wreckage to see everyone doing their jobs. The men who are guarding the perimeter have taken up positions around the ship so they can have three sixty security while the others bring in supplies and bury the dead who washed up.

After a bit of walking Forbes and Scarecrow reach a big patch of bushes and shrubbery that's too difficult to go through and as soon as they hear someone saying ouch on the other side of the shrubbery. Quickly Scarecrow raises his shield and have his gladius on his shield at the ready while Forbes keeps his right hand on Scarecrow's shoulder with his sword raised ready to strike and cover his fellow soldier. Slowly and very silently the two round the corner and just before they pounce the two spot Spearmint getting up and grabbing some wood that was part of their ship. "It's a kid. Stay right where you are lad and not any step closer. Who are you, what is this place, and how many foots are there?" Forbes asks Spearmint as the two stay at the ready just incase Spearmint isn't just an innocent child. Back in Vennin the rats would use some of the children to disguise them as orphans and refugees to distract the patrols while the warriors surround the patrols and ambushing them. It got so bad back there during the war that the patrols would either push the kids out of the way, or in some cases they would kill them if they tried to stop them.

Abi

As soon as Abi sees the gate, a squirrel, and a cat. Abi looks at the feline baffled for a moment before entering the abby, and hearing the insults of her sounding like a banshee. As much as she wants to say something she did learn one thing from the Merc Circle. Never be rude to your future contractor, OR someone who opens their home to you. Taking a deep breath Abi enters the abby. "Thank ye Lanissa for letting me into your home and for the invitation to breakfast. I'm Abi of the BattleBlood Clan." Abi says to the two with a smile. As the three walk towards the Abi to get some food. A mouse named Saren nearly hit Lanissa while practicing his sword fighting and was told to apologize correctly before he could eat. Abi smiles at the child silently laughing. He reminds her of her good friend Scabbers who wasn't the best sword fighter, but when it comes to apologizing he'll be gone in a heart beat.