Ember
Administrator
T'san Iskierka Dy'shi Jazheera Ae'on Nephele Qaena K'dem Eikane
FLAME GURU OF THE UNDERWORLD
Posts: 1,832
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Post by Ember on Jan 10, 2012 16:13:42 GMT -5
Eikane managed a friendly, if slightly strained, smile for Porita when she approached him. Judging from her behaviour she was either really upset about Darmosk or she was still uncomfortable with him. The goldhandler thought of a task that wasn't already taken for the girl to do. Aha. The inside of the weyr was safe enough so she could... "Would you and Posk mind terribly going to the kitchens and seeing if they'll part with some sandwiches and hot drinks for the wherlings?" It was almost lunch time and sustenance would hopefully help keep them calm.
Eikask watched mildly as Sesk attempted to go with the rescue party. She barked softly at the wherling. You are to stay here, Sesk. I understand the desire to go with but you would be a liability, the gold informed her gently enough. She pressed just enough command in her voice that it would sink in. Eikane was rather amused by the wherlings' reactions as well. There was some of the natural fear and some apathy if he was judging right but the couple of volunteers he got made it hard to fight a smile. To Cainith he said, "If you'd like you can help Porita. She might well need extra hands."
-----
Ceryl was rather apathetic to the whole thing, minus the threat it posed to her beloved Cerysk. She was somewhat an antisocial person and really largely only cared for Piden because Cerysk adored Pidesk. Speaking of which, the green and therefore Ceryl herself were immensely relieved when the bronzepair arrived. Then they were off into the jungle in search of Darmori. The sheer quietness of the jungle was what tipped the watchpair off that something odd was going on. True wilderness was seldom so quiet.
The darkness seemed to stretch on until eventually sporadic clicking could be heard. There was a dark mass on the ground and rustling of things moving away as the group approached. As Ceryl had suspected, the mass was Darmosk's body, brutally torn apart and flesh quite clearly missing entirely. It was grotesque but at least the wher had already been dead when whatever it was started to eat him. Not far from the bronze's body was that of Darmori's though none had noticed it quite yet.
((Yes, that is an open invitation for someone to find Darmori's body.))
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Tashe
Shiny Hoarder
Weyrwoman Kaegan Dragonhealer E'rro Rider K'thay Woodcrafter E'iah Healer Raylanne Healer Ithanna Harper Zemaren [color=0BDA5
"When the Butterfly emurges, does the caterpillar no longer exist?"
Posts: 1,401
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Post by Tashe on Jan 10, 2012 17:26:47 GMT -5
Nautic had just asked Nautsk to lead the way when Piden appeared, giving the Green pair a little more ease but not enough to shadow the hot little ball of nervousness that seemed to have nested in his chest. He’d let Roivao talk to Piden, concentrating was sort of key at the moment. Though, that being said, Yosk’s stealthy appearance disrupted Nautsk all together as she sent waves of relief toward her Greensister. She told Yosk to stay close and make sure to be alert, they were going to go find Darmosk’s. Tossing her mind out to Draisk, she told him she would keep him updated every few minutes and she asked Roisk to update Eikask. Shuffling her wings, Nautsk took a deep breath before slipping into Watchwher mode.
Once they were in the jungle Nautic managed to push away almost all his anxieties, except for the little naggling feelings that could never be fully locked away. They were on point, which meant that they had to be about 5 times more alert with the jungle in front and to their sides than anyone else. Drawing his long dagger then sheathing it to that an inch of blade was sticking out, he made it easier to get at. He also unclipped the straps that held his short bow to the harness, pulling it across his thighs for easy use. They weren’t his weapon of choice but Piden had reminded him that even carrying the bow itself could be useful. If you timed it right, a bow could catch an attack or be used as a club, albeit a skinny one. A few times on their journey, Nautsk had the group stop, lifting her nose to the sky and remaining perfectly still. But in the end she always moved the others on, deeming it relatively safe to move on.
The Green remained silent until the very moment she saw Darmosk, even when she had started to smell his blood she had repressed a whine, but now… she let out a small distressed croon. Quietly she lead the others through the underbrush to the kill site. Quickly she tossed a report to Draisk, telling him that they had located Darmosk’s body and… that it was very unlikely that his human was alive. She requested (this is where she brought Roisk in on the conversation) that rescue stay back until they could clear the area. Just in case, she sent Draisk the coordinates to where they were, in case they needed to come quickly. Nautsk then reached out to her Watch. She told Tekivisk and Ceyrsk pair up and search the surrounding area for Darmori or any signs of the attackers. And then asked Yosk to accompany her in the search. Nautsk let Roisk know of her plans before walking over to Yosk.
---
Zemaren nodded as Draik responded and continued to listen as he explained the situation to Max upon his arrival. He wasn’t happy about moving into the jungle with an unknown predator (or predators) lurking in the shadows, but he put his faith in Zemask who by all appearances was a solid wall of flesh. If Zemask couldn’t survive through the night, he doubted any one could. But that was something not to be thought about at this very moment, instead he focused on moving his Brown down the line to cover one of the tunnel entrances, waiting for Draik’s signal.
Zemask settled into his new position before reaching back out to Emilisk. The Watch and Guard needed to make sure the killers weren’t going to attack them when they started out to save Damorsk’s. Plus, if they needed them quickly, well, everyone could Between right? He rumbled quietly to himself. They would be called when they were needed. They were rescue, the others knew how to fight a lot better than they did. So it was better to be safe than be dead, right?
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Avu
Weyrleader Ce'thian Rider A'emi Handler Sena Harper Matteo Weyrbrat Riaren
Posts: 2,439
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Post by Avu on Jan 10, 2012 17:51:15 GMT -5
The look Sensk shot at his twin was decidedly unhappy; if she went then he’d have to go too—he couldn’t just let her go out there all alone. She needed a protector, you know, even if this particular protector was not very large…the blue started to reluctantly peel himself away from Sena, fully intending to follow his sister despite his terror, but Sena scowled and pushed him back away from Sesk before she literally grabbed the green. Fortunately she was a baby, and a small baby at that; even if she could just drag Sena with her, at least the weight would be considerable. Not that Sena’s position, with Sensk still crowding her legs anxiously, was exactly dignified, but whatever.
“Just cause I was polite when I said it don’t mean it wasn’t an order, okay,” she snapped, getting her arms more firmly around the green’s sides, “You’re like a speck compared to Darmosk, if he’s not holdin’ up well there ain’t nothing you can do and if Darmori just got clumsy and took a tumble there ain’t nothing you can do either, okay, I don’t think the rescue party’s gonna be careless. So bite me, I don’t think you’re—”
You’re talking very much, Sensk noted, already clambering back into Sena’s lap and effectively pinning her knees. The blue’s eyes were practically neon yellow with anxiety, his fear sliding like ice down Sena’s spine despite Kaiusk’s affection and reassurances. Which he appreciated a lot but it was really not okay at all and he was really terrified beyond reasoning a little bit.
“Well, yeah, I talk a lot all the time,” Sena said out loud, distracted, before Kaius was abruptly beside her and she blinked at him, owlish. “Sure, Sensk and I are gonna hide under the bed, worst monsters down there are the dust bunnies right? You be careful, you’re the one doin’ stuff. Whatever happens, you best tell me about it once Sensk ain’t freaking out anymore, okay?” Yes, it was an order to gossip, but mostly it was Sena babbling to keep herself from freaking out the same way Sensk was—she didn’t like mysterious disasters like this where nobody was giving her much to go off of, and Sensk practically quivering in her lap was not helping.
Neither was Sesk trying to be suicidal, for that matter.
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Rowana
Hive Mind
Handler Roivao Rider G'tor Rider Merridan Rider T'ke Rider N'rik Handler Porita Rider Farryl Rider Kyr'n[/color
Posts: 1,550
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Post by Rowana on Jan 10, 2012 20:05:12 GMT -5
Porita nodded with a relieved smile at Eikane's request. This was something she could do and it made her happy to be able to help. Turning, she sent Posk and mental call. It was time to get their new friends some lunch and then they would be back. Porita started to go, until she heard Eikane ask someone to help her. Looking back, she smiled and started to say: "Thank you..." but her voice trailed off into a whisper.
Though she had vaguely been aware of the men who had come to Eikane for help, she had been keeping her head down too much to really see them. Now she stared at Cainith with barely hidden fear. He was just so big! Quickly, Porita dropped her eyes and head down, falling into old habits before she realized it. "This way, sir," she mumbled, stepping aside so he could lead. Posk trotted up next to them, nuzzle Porita and Cainith both. Wasn't this lovely? They could all go together!
Unfortunately for the group, Porita's presence and the sense of loss and foreboding had summoned someone else. Neyki slipped into the room, a round, green ghost and surveyed the group with a snort. So many people and so many of them sad or uneasy. What on earth was wrong with them? She would cheer them up! She would show them what it really meant to be sad! Finding a conveniently mobile perch on Kaius's shoulder, Neyki began to trill a slow, sweet and entirely depressing song at the top of her small lungs.
~
Though he had been prepared to continue with those he had, Roivao was delighted to see first Piden and then Yoalla join them in the search. He left Nautic in charge of the other greens, since he knew their strengths much better, and turned to Piden. "Nothing," he confirmed apprehensively. "Stay close. Faranth willing, the boy is still alive." Roi didn't need to speak his own doubts on that regard. If Darmosk had already falling, Darmori's chances were slim indeed. He wished they had time for him to say something to Tekivix, since the young man still seemed upset, but Roi wasn't sure he would know what to say even if they did. He had a hard enough time dealing with his own frustration and guilt.
Roisk continued in Nautsk wake, sending Eikask the report of who was present and that they were underway. He also touched the mind of each other wher present. Guard or Watch, he considered them all his responsibility now and he would do his best to protect them from harm. Yet they needed to be calm and alert if they were to survive whatever threats lurked in the jungle tonight.
Almost sooner than Roi expected, they reached Darmosk's body. The smell alerted Roisk first, whose nostrils flared angrily at the sight. He affirmed Nautsk decision, though he resisted the urge to add his own opinion on the human's chances. They must still try to find him. Reaching out first to Eikask, Roisk reported their findings and their intentions to continue searching. Then he touched Pidesk's mind, requesting he go with Nautsk and Yosk and protect them. Finally Roisk moved to join Tekivisk and Cerysk. They were better searchers than he so he would follow their lead and guard them with all his strength.
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Zephyr
Shiny Hoarder
Rider K?ian Handler Kaius Rider Au?st Rider L?am Rider Saphor Rider Olivia Handler Tekivix Rider Vellani[/color
Posts: 515
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Post by Zephyr on Jan 10, 2012 21:21:15 GMT -5
Draik was unaware of Emiliah’s misgivings. If he had been, there might have been something he could say to comfort her. Anything, really. The problem is, he wasn’t even sure himself that staying back was a good idea. He didn’t know Darmori very well, but he was a fellow wherhandler, and Draik didn’t want to see him hurt either. People could say what they wanted about the dark haired brownhandler, but when it came down to life and death, he wasn’t rash or impulsive. Perhaps it was the fact that he was rather new to the weyr, that gave him his impartial view of thinking.
Draisk perked when Nautsk’s thoughts came to him. The brown tensed as he listened, hide flicking lightly as he listened intently, relaying the thoughts to his handler. Nautsk has heard us, she has promised to keep us updated. Draik frowned, fooling around with his knife. Do you think this is a good idea, hanging back until we get word that the way is safe? The wher was quiet for a while, probable thinking. I know this must be hard for them. They’ve known Darmosk and His a long time before we did. But this is the best plan, I think. If we run out and someone gets hurt…or worse, that’s on you, and it’s on me. And I don’t think either of us wants that on our shoulders. Draik frowned at the wher, punching him in the shoulder. When did you get so very wise? The punch wasn’t nearly enough to hurt the wher, but Draisk crooned and grunted a little. Anyone is wise compared to you, Draikmine.
Before Draik could speak, the brown wher grew tense again, gathering Nautsk’s orders as well as the coordinates to Darmosk’s location. Afterwards, he glanced to Draik, eyes swirling with indecision. They’ve found Darmosk, Mine…and Nautsk says she doesn’t think His is still alive. She wants us to stay back until they’re sure the coast is clear. I know where they are. What should we do. Draik sighed heavily, pressing his fingers to the bridge of his nose. “ Where’s all your wisery when we need it the most?” At length, he shrugged, patting his wher on the neck. “ Go ahead and relay the information to the rest of the rescue, followed by the coordinates, but make sure you’re firm with the orders to stay back. We can’t risk anyone getting killed.
Draisk nodded and relayed the orders. Darmosk’s body has been found. His is nowhere to be found. It’s unlikely that he’s alive, but we are going to hang back a bit longer. The watch and the guard wants to secure the area. After a moment, he was silent. He wasn’t completely convinced that his knew what he was doing when he asked him to relay the coordinates to the others, but if Darmori was found, alive and hurt, they all needed to know where to between to…as fast as possible. Here’s where they found Darmosk’s body…and he relayed the coordinates to Zemask, Emilisk, and Maximisk.
Now all they could do was wait.
Halfway through his rounds, Kaius glanced back to see Sena tackling Serissa’s wher. His brows knitted, wondering what on earth she was thinking. He almost intervened. Sesk might have been small, but he could still be dangerous. The scars that Sydsk and Vivask left on him was proof enough of that. Even Kaiusk was on the verge of intercepting her wayward sister. Fortunately for both of them, Eikask was quicker. Kaiusk whined lightly. What was she going to do to comfort some siblings that didn’t want comforting? Kaius sighed, walking over to scratch his weyr’s eye ridges. “ Don’t worry about it. They’ll come around.” Suddenly, the gold’s mood changed, white fangs bared and her tail lashed angrily behind them. If they aren’t going to accept my help, I’m not giving it! “ You’re a liar.” Kaius said, laughing lightly. The wher growled, stalking off to try and comfort someone who would actually welcome it. She wandered off to see how Casanask was doing. He always was a very nice brother and she liked him quite a bit.
If Kaius had a hard time adjusting to the life of a wherhandler, then King was having a worse time of it. The bronze salamandyr was tightly curled up, sleeping on his bonded’s pillow. He still wasn’t so sure about the strange gold thing he had to share Kaius with. She hadn’t bothered him yet, so King allowed her to be for the moment. The death of Darmosk didn’t just affect the whers, but King felt it too. Head jerking up, he frilled lightly. Kaimine? The salamandyr trilled, leaping down off of the bed to rush into the common room, entering just in time to see a certain green flit landing on Kaius’ shoulder.
Pausing, the salamandyr chirruped and rushed over, climbing up Kaius’ body, resting on the shoulder to stare curiously at the green firelizard, paws resting on the boy’s ear. Silly fly thing. Why so sad? Nightbeast not smart enough to live. No need to cry. He scowled at the firelizard, hissing lightly in irritation. If Darmosk’s death had awoken him, Neyki’s wailing was keeping him awake!
Kaius sighed lightly at the battle going on across his shoulders. Why was he always the one the pets flocked to? Probably the same thing that drew me to you, mylove. WHY do you call me that? Kaius seethed, only to receive a gentle whuff of amusement from his wher. Because I love you. So very much.
Kai could only sigh.
Unfortunately, Tekivisk didn’t have the self-control that Nautsk had. Creeping off into the jungle like this was enough to terrify the little green. She stuck close to Cerysk, only venturing further into the jungle because hers’ wanted her to…and because Darmosk was such a close friend, and His was one of Her’s closest. There was no way she was going to wait behind. It didn’t mean she was happy to be venturing into the jungle.
When the stench of blood and rotting flesh reached her nose, she finally let loose a whine, silenced by Vix prodding her side with a foot. Shush. You don’t want whatever’s out there to find us…do you? No, mine…but I’m frightened, and I smell something disconcerting. What is…? That was when he heard Nautsk’s croon. The green stopped abruptly. She didn’t want to see the broken and torn form of her friend. She didn’t know if she could handle it. For once, Vix agreed with her, and let Ceryl and Cerysk continue on to inspect Darmosk if they wished.
“ Buck up. We’re getting orders.” Vix patted Ki as Nautsk told them and Cerysk to search the surrounding jungle. Sighing lightly, Vix directed Ki to a small ravine near the body. Maybe Darmori had fallen down there? He didn’t really expect to find anything, even when Roisk joined them in the search. Suddenly, Vix thought he saw something. Narrowing his eyes, he had Ki stop so he could make it out. There was no mistaking it. There, obscured by foliage and dirt, was Darmori! “ DARMORI!” The boy yelled, flying from the back of his wher to get to his friend. “ Guys!” He yelled to the others when he finally got to his fallen friend. “ You’d better be alive, you jerk!” He said through clenched teeth, cradling the former bronzehandler’s head.
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Post by Sheari on Jan 10, 2012 22:35:20 GMT -5
True, Emilisk relayed back to Zemask. He did bring up a good point but it still frustrated her though, and she told him that. Sure things were probably going quicker out in the field, it just felt like nothing was happening just standing there gazing into a tunnel. She knew their job was important and they’d get their turn to do it, just at the moment she felt like she wasn’t helping much at all, and she told him that, too.
And then Draisk relayed the news to the team. Emilisk relayed the coordinates to Emiliah in case she forgot or was unsure of then if they had to between and then sighed again. Emiliah had taken to sitting astride the wher, for she had tired of standing and the arrival of the coordinates meant the possibility of quick maneuvers. “What are they saying?” the young woman asked Emilisk quietly.
Emilisk relayed everything she knew to Hers. They had found the body and they doubted his handler was alive. The wher didn’t hold back on the twinge of sadness she felt. Of everyone she rightfully could tell Emiliah anything and they kept no secrets between them. It hit her, Emilisk, that she knew so few outside her mother and clutch siblings. Even then, she wasn’t particularly close to really any of them. While this relieved tragedy, in itself it was a tragedy. What if it had been her instead of Darmosk? Would such an effort still be put out for an introverted green as a strong bronze? Emilisk decided that these were not helpful questions and she should ponder them later.
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Aftershock
Hive Mind
Rider M'gnum Rider Lilu Handler Max Handler Cainith Rider Cairenn Weyrfolk Samael
Posts: 752
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Post by Aftershock on Jan 11, 2012 17:09:26 GMT -5
Cainith turned towards Porita as Eikane indicated the bluehandler, though the fear he saw in her eyes he attributed to the situation, not her reaction to him. After all, as far as he knew she didn't even know him, as he didn't know her, and so she shouldn't have anything to base a fear of him off of, beyond his size... and if size alone scared her, she must hate living in a Weyr with huge dragons around.
Walking up to Porita, he extended his hand, saying, "Hey, there, Porita was it? I'm Cainith, one of the new wherlings. That's Cainsk over there," he added, pointing towards the pale blue across the room where he was mingling with his clutchsiblings. Turning his attention back to Porita, he continued, "It's nice to meet you. I'm a Journeyman Miner, and as you can tell I have a bit of strength behind me, so whatever you need me for, lead the way." Hearing her words as she turned her face downwards, he added, "Oh, and no need to call me 'sir'. You're the full wherhandler, after all, I'm just a wherling. Just call me Cainith," he concluded with a friendly smile.
Maximisk sent a pulse of understanding to Draisk to verify he'd recieved the coordinates, then sent an image informing Max of the situation. Max nodded, waiting for orders from Draik.
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Ember
Administrator
T'san Iskierka Dy'shi Jazheera Ae'on Nephele Qaena K'dem Eikane
FLAME GURU OF THE UNDERWORLD
Posts: 1,832
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Post by Ember on Jan 14, 2012 21:03:38 GMT -5
A few things happened at once when Tekivix dismounted with a yell. The first was that Cerysk jumped in surprise and the greenhandler only stayed on because of the straps. Muttering reassurances, Ceryl had her and Cerysk begin to move towards Darmori and the other greenpair. The second thing to occur was Cerysk noticing movement of the underbrush near Tekivix. "Tekivix, watch out! Roivao!" She called out, trying to bring their attention to it, whatever it was. The last thing to happen that set everything else off was that something exploding from the underbrush with an unhappy screech.
Ceryl got an up close impression of sharp hooves, small arms - which put the creature at six limbs, like other Pernese native fauna - and a pair of ram-like horns. The small little arms on the creature's chest swiped at her and drew vicious claw marks from her left shoulder and just under her throat to her abdomen. Cerysk moved too late to save her handler from damage but she did manage to avoid the second creature that seemed to come out of nowhere. The second was distinctly lacking the pair of horns.
Chaos seemed to reign after that for the animals were fast - faster, perhaps, than the whers - and darted about slashing at the Tekivix-Ceryl-Roivao group as a seemingly well-practiced pair. They seemed to be looking for an opening to attack the vulnerable Tekivix. Nautic-Yoalla-Piden had their own troubles though. A short moment after the first one had appeared another pair of the mysterious animals burst out of the jungle with screams and started in on the other group.
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Tashe
Shiny Hoarder
Weyrwoman Kaegan Dragonhealer E'rro Rider K'thay Woodcrafter E'iah Healer Raylanne Healer Ithanna Harper Zemaren [color=0BDA5
"When the Butterfly emurges, does the caterpillar no longer exist?"
Posts: 1,401
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Post by Tashe on Jan 14, 2012 23:19:12 GMT -5
It wasn't long after they had given their orders when Tekivix called out, confirming the location of their fellow Wherhandler. But Nautsk refused to move. Nostrils flaring, any movements she did make were to get closer to Yosk, making little noises of distress. "What is it?" No sooner did the words leave his mouth when the first pair of creatures appeared. Nautsk immediately notified Draisk (or rather Rescue as a whole since her concentration was shot) danger with a sharp, fear edged flash of images before breaking their connection almost prematurely, two more arrived to harry their group. Nautsk yelped as one of the animal's attacks landed, the sharp claws drawing ichor near her left flank. Quickly she called to Pidesk to come in closer to her and Yosk. They might stand a better chance if they could watch each others' backs. Literally. Between dodging blows and trying to trade some of her own, she did her best to stay next to Yosk, facing the opposite direction than her Greensister.
"Faranath what are they?" In all his studies for the watch he'd never run across a description of these things or if he had he couldn't remember. Nautic, who could do little, tried to do as much as he could a wherback. Wielding his bow like a club, he tried to deter as many attacks as he could, trying to hit the creatures as soon as they danced in close to his range. These things were fast and Nautsk, who wasn't a slow poke by far with her reactions, was ichoring a little. "Yoalla, Piden! Do you have a bolero? These things..." He called over the noise of fighting, or tried to at least. "... we need to slow them down!" Tucking his bow into some straps Nautic fumbled with one of his packs, nearly dropping the bolero twice before securely grabbing a hold of it.
----
Yes... they'd get their turn. But that was what Zemask was afraid of. He liked being not needed, it meant that everything was going well and all was right with the world. It meant there wasn't any danger or injuries or death. Not being needed to do his job was a good thing, in his mind at least. When the coordinates where passed along to him, he in turn passed them along to Hislove. In case they were needed. Which he hoped they weren't. It was quiet, despite the tension he could feel in the air, though he knew the stillness was a deception. Even so, he chose to enjoy the moment as it was and not what it was going to be.
Shifting uncomfortably as Nautsk's message shot through his mind, Zemask flicked his tail. The pictures had been painful, which meant they were in some serious trouble out there. Gently he tossed his mind out to Draisk before brushing Emilisk's as he awaited for instructions.
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Rowana
Hive Mind
Handler Roivao Rider G'tor Rider Merridan Rider T'ke Rider N'rik Handler Porita Rider Farryl Rider Kyr'n[/color
Posts: 1,550
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Post by Rowana on Jan 15, 2012 10:03:56 GMT -5
Porita glanced up shyly. For all he was big, Cainith did seem like a kind man. For a moment she felt embarrassed for being so frightened of him. Old habits were hard to break, especially when she was stressed. She smiled softly and nodded. "Cainsk is lovely," she offered, glancing at the pretty wher. Posk circled both of them happily. It was best to be friends after all. "Posk and I were going to fetch some lunch," Porita explained as she walked. "If you'd like to help?" She looked uncertain. Men didn't fetch food in her experience, but she had to keep reminding herself this was the South, not the North. Not all men were like the ones she'd known.
Neyki started in the middle of her song, nearly falling off Kaius's shoulder in surprise at King's appearance. She glared at him briefly, before leaning back dramatically. She was not sad. She was merely showing these poor souls the wrong of their ways. If they must be sad, then at least they would do it with the proper audience. Then she would convince them to cheer up, or else.
Porita was too distracted by Cainith to notice what her fire lizard was doing, but Posk trotted up to Kaius. He stared up at Neyki with a playful woof. What was she doing up there? Didn't she know that wasn't her person? Besides, she was making everyone more gloomy and they didn't need that. All would be well after all, he was sure of it.
~
Shards and shells, Roivao cursed inwardly. Was the boy a complete fool? Now the whole jungle knew they were here! "Wait!" he hissed as loud as he dared, but it was too late. Tekivix was already off his wher and running. Roisk's nostrils flared urgently. This was not good, not good at all. A movement caught his attention and a bark of warning came too late as two strange creatures lunged at Cerysk and her rider. Roi held his knife in one hand, hanging on with the other as Roisk charged forward.
The big bronze moved as swiftly as he could, but the creatures were too fast. His mind reached to Eikask. They were under attack, Ceryl was wounded. In the back of his mind, he realized that Pidesk's party was also under assault. They wouldn't get help anytime soon. Roisk urged Cerysk to stay with him as he placed himself protectively over Tekivix and Darmori. "Stay together," Roivao called. "Go for their legs if you can." Roisk's strong claws swept out as he spoke, hoping to take the horned one off balance. Shards but they were fast!
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Zephyr
Shiny Hoarder
Rider K?ian Handler Kaius Rider Au?st Rider L?am Rider Saphor Rider Olivia Handler Tekivix Rider Vellani[/color
Posts: 515
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Post by Zephyr on Jan 15, 2012 17:55:24 GMT -5
Draik stood tense as the silence stretched between them. He was trying to hold the others together, but at the same time, he wasn’t so sure himself. He knew they should be out there. If whatever it was could take down a full grown bronze wher on its’ own, then what could it do to a bunch of greens and the odd bronze? There might even be more than one of them. Doubting yourself, mine? Draisk brushed up against him, nuzzling his arm in a comforting manner. Why not? Faranth knows what’s lurking in that darkness. We can handle ourselves. Draisk said with a note of finality. Though, Draik wasn’t sure he believed it himself. There were a new batch of wherlings, but none of them were large enough to be any help. Their numbers were depleted, anyone knew the truth.
Suddenly, Draisk stiffened once more. The handler’s eyes shifted to the form of the wher, wary. “ What is it?” He whispered, concerned, but not wanting to alert the rest of the group if he didn’t absolutely have to. The guard and watch are under attack! Draik’s eyes opened wide. He looked up. The others know too. Draisk told him. They’re waiting for you.
Draik rubbed his head. He didn’t like being the one looked to in times like this. Ah well, he’d accepted the position. Time to work. “ You heard Nautsk! They might be in over their heads.” Mounting Draisk behind Serissa, he grinned at her. “ Don’t worry, miss. I won’t get handsy.” Turning to face the others, he spoke again. “ You all have the coordinates. Be careful, above all. Do not engage anything on your own. Come in quickly and quietly and take them by surprise. We can win this!” Go Draisk, go. With that, Draisk blinked into between, coming out silently a few yards from the action.
Gripping his blade, Draik slid off of Draisk’s back, helping Serissa off. “ I’ll help you to Darmori. The whers will protect you.” Turning to Draisk, his eyed widened. “ Go Draisk. Be careful.” The wher crooned quietly and then ran to engage the closest monster, the one closest to Tekivix, Darmori and Roisk. Sliding in low, the brown wher silently went for the legs of the horned one, claws flashing and jaws snapping. Draik, on the other hand, creeped closer to Tekivix and Darmori with Serissa behind him, knife outstretched. He hoped that the horned monster was distracted enough to not notice him.
Of course, when he saw his friend, he threw all caution to the wind. No one would call Vix an especially careful person. That’s probably how he got saddled with Ki in the first place. He’d lost so much over the past year, he wasn’t willing to lose another friend…not when there was something he could do about it. So, it was safe to say he didn’t think about the consequences, of the possible monsters lurking in the darkness, just out of reach.
First, he heard Ceryl’s cry and jerked up, blade withdrawn as the monsters attacked. Unwilling to let go of Darmori, he half dragged his friend’s body further into the foliage as the whers gathered around him. He glared as Ki snarled, going to stand near Roisk and Cerysk. What were they going to do?
Listening to the bronze, she nodded and jumped forward, going for the legs, slashing out savagely at the thing’s legs. She got a pretty nice gash on her shoulder for her troubles, too.
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Ruby
Shiny Hoarder
Jr.Weyrwoman Caden Bronzehandler Piden Bluerider M'kai Bluerider T'ri Greenrider Tenlie Greenhandler Serissa
Posts: 1,524
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Post by Ruby on Jan 16, 2012 20:16:39 GMT -5
Well, that was alright too, Sesk informed everyone in a bemused swirl of feelings as Eikask commanded her backside to the floor. No need to get their panties in a bunch. Sena, though, hadn't stopped talking, and she'd grabbed Sesk, something that the green did not appreciate. Baring her teeth at the Bluehandler until she was released, Sesk flipped her tail at Sena, walking past her down the hall with an unconcerned gait that was somewhat at odds with her clearly annoyed mental tone. Don't tell me what to do, I'm not yours, she corrected, pausing in the door down to the apartments to contact Sensk. Did you want me, brother? she asked. Otherwise I will go to my own room and wait.
Serissa, meanwhile, had sat patiently and quietly astride Draisk, used to this. Sure, usually she was riding Ildyth, but on the occasions that the Blue was unavailable, or too big, or more stealth was required, she'd caught rides on smaller and more easily concealable greens. There was a method to it, and that method mostly consisted of staying out of the way until they'd found the patient. The communications of the Rescue squad largely went over her head, too, since none of it applied to her. The waited and waited and... and all of a sudden they were moving. Good. Serissa let Draik mount behind her without comment, steeling herself for Between.
Honestly, it was a good thing that they emerged into chaos as they did. Some portion of Serissa's brain was doing it's best to have a breakdown - she hadn't been Between while conscious since before Ildyth's death, more than enough to send her in to a tailspin of crazy - but, as at the hatching, training took over and she was off the Brown and at Darmori and Tekivix's side before she had another moment to process. Gently disengaging the Greenhandler from his friend, she shouldered Tekivix aside without a word, although her message was clear enough. Nothing he could do now except get in the way.
As soon as she got a clear look, though, it was obvious that any sort of resuscitation was not going to happen here. A quick check of his vitals turned up absolutely nothing positive - no pulse, no breathing, blood everywhere - and Vix had dragged him into a dense patch of greenery where CPR would be basically useless on the soft, spongy ground. Keeping her voice low, Serissa looked for help, preferably another of the Rescue whers. "Max? Someone? Help me lift him. Gotta get him out of here." If there was anything to be done. If she was going to have any chance to save him, she needed all her tools, all of the help available. Not an emergency kit and a jungle floor in the middle of a battle.
Pidesk was happy to listen to Roisk, allowing the younger Bronze to take the lead. Yes, he'd stick with Nautsk and Yosk, following behind much as Roisk was following Cerysk and Tekivisk. He did crane his neck around briefly, watching his green sister go with an odd sense of foreboding, but he'd been assigned Nautsk and Yosk, and they needed all of his protection and attention. Piden swung off the Bronze's back - they weren't moving fast anyway - and the pair watched each other's backs as the Greens turned away from Roisk's trio.
Pidesk got the pulse of 'attack!' from Roisk right around the time that Tekivix yelled, just a moment before something attacked their group. Piden caught sight of a confusion of hooves and limbs, but that's all he had time to register before Nautic was shouting at him. "No! Stupid!" Piden yelled back, aiming a shot at one of the creatures as Pidesk barreled in, slim form easily fitting in between the greens. Who carried boleros with them, anyway? Not the Guard, that was for sure. Roi didn't go in much for non-lethal weapons, and Piden had to agree with him there.
Bolero or not, though, Piden was aware that just shouting 'stupid' to the air wasn't exactly helpful. As Pidesk took a swipe at the larger of the two creatures and Piden fumbled his bow onto his back (he wasn't sure, but he was pretty confident that the first arrow had gone super wide), he kept shouting, at first just a wordless yell but pretty quickly it resolved in to words. "Ahhhh mount! Between! Between to Roisk! Strength in numbers, things! Cerysk!" Whether the other two heard him or not, he headed for Pidesk, swinging aboard when the Bronze disengaged for a moment... but not going Between quite yet. Once the Greens had joined Roisk, he'd follow. That said, they had about three minutes to get out before Piden went anyway. He'd never gotten points for bravery.
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Post by Sheari on Jan 16, 2012 21:03:09 GMT -5
Emiliah adjusted herself upon Emilisk's back. The green seemed suddenly very tense and then, without much other warning beyond a 'be quiet', they betweened. Foliage rustled as the green appeared in the jungle near Serissa, able to peer through leaves and vegitation at what was going on. Remaining silent, she explained that Nautsk had called them and that, not quite obvious, there was a great deal of trouble. Emiliah remained on the green's back, not sure what to do.
Looking at everything she could see, she saw the hooves, the arms, and the horns, but not much else. The woman didn't carry weapons (and now she guessed she should start) so all she could do was take the injured away to safety. Hearing Serissa call, the woman slid from the green wher and moved over to her, Emilisk following. "What do you need?" she asked, looking quickly to Tekivix before kneeling next to the healer. She knew little about what to do, but the body of Darmori didn't seem very alive.
Emilisk looked down at the little group of people before turning her back to face the direction of the battle. I will let you know if something comes this way, she told to the assembled group. She turnedher mind to Zemask as well. I am helping the healer that was with Draisk, but I will fight with yu if you need me and I can. The jungle was no place for humans to be when they were injured and the wher was already reviewing the coordinates to the common room.
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Aftershock
Hive Mind
Rider M'gnum Rider Lilu Handler Max Handler Cainith Rider Cairenn Weyrfolk Samael
Posts: 752
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Post by Aftershock on Jan 17, 2012 0:48:13 GMT -5
Cainith reached down to rub along the top of Posk's head as the wher nuzzled him, and replied to Porita, "Thank you. Is this yours, then?" he added, indicating Posk. As Porita continued to speak, he responded, "Lunch? If you couldn't tell, I'm a big fan of food." Smirking and slapping his gut with one hand, he laughed and continued, "Lead the way. With both of us, we can probably get enough for everyone in a single trip."
Max and Maximisk betweened as soon as Draik gave the signal, and as they arrived, Max shook the frost off his eyelashes and borrowed Maximisk's vision in order to get the situation. Yells and screeches of man, wher, and something else entirely filled the night air, and Max immediately began looking around for injuries... he was a rescuer, not a fighter, and he needed to get the wounded out of the way so the Night Guard could do their jobs.
Spotting the cluster of Serissa, Tekivix, and the fallen Darmori, Max had Maximisk carefully creep through the darkness, hoping his wher's coloration might help them avoid detection. As he got nearer, he saw Serissa checking on Darmori, then heard her ask for him. Quickly dismounting, he carefully crouched over to the Healer, and looked over Darmori's body, grimacing. "He looks bad. I'll get his upper half, you get his legs."
Slipping under the shoulders of the unconcious man, Max heaved with his compact, but powerful muscles, careful not to strain the man's neck or spine any more than necessary, as he commanded Maximisk to crouch to ease loading. As he started moving Darmori's body onto Max, hopefully with Serissa's help, he asked her, "You looked him over before I got there... do we need to rush him to the Infirmary, or is it bad enough that we should risk a between with him? I've been to the Infirmary enough times I can visualize it well, but as you know through-the-ground betweens always carry a risk. It's your call."
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Ivy
Rider C?vin Rider S'rring Rider T'vis Rider Ivy Handler Swithin Rider Ruliana Rider Roselle Holdbrat Aithyn
Posts: 524
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Post by Ivy on Jan 18, 2012 23:07:14 GMT -5
Swisk moved to block the doorway after the last of the humans and other adult whers had exited, rumbling towards the younger whers as he did so. They would stay put, thank-you-very-much. There was enough chaos and while everyone wanted to help they could do the most by staying still. Another rumble came from the wraith-like blue as he sat on his haunches, a glance given towards His.
Swithin moved about the room, speaking quietly to wherlings as he passed by them. Was so-and-so doing alright? Don't worry things were going to be fine. Do your best to calm your whers down so they aren't too over excited or nervous, things would be fine soon.
After his rounds he looked towards Swisk and then to the entry way to the common room, both of them were wondering what was going on in the jungle. Swisk managed to pick up second hand information from some of the others. Creatures were out there. But he did not know what kind. The blue reached out and brushed Yosk's mind lightly - not wanting to distract her and put her in danger, but wanting to be sure she was doing alright. She was still alive at least, he could tell that much - and was quite glad. Hopefully the night would end without any more losses for the whers and handlers.
Swithin made his way to his wher and scratched along his eyeridges. He hated being stuck inside. Hated knowing he couldn't do anything. And he knew Swisk felt the same. The blue would be out in the jungle as well if he could be - the only thing stopping him was he knew his duty was to the wherlings right now. If he left his post and something managed to get to them... he couldn't allow that to happen. Swisk felt he was just as able-bodies as other blues. Browns even. Hell, sometimes he compared himself to bronzes. If only his body shared the strength his mind possessed...
A heavy sigh sounded from the tall handler and he looked around, flashing a reassuring grin to the wherlings. "Where are my manners?! I am Swithin! This here is Swisk." He was fairly certain he'd met most the wherlings briefly, but without anything else to say or do it didn't hurt to try and ease tensions with a little basic chit-chat, right?
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