Gwennythe is attacked by an owl, conversation in the Great Hall - 11-06-08
Gwennythe enters the hall at terrible speed from her ledge above, her wings extending as she realises, too late, how fast the ground approaches. The adjustment prevents the bat from slamming into the floor, yet sends her spiralling off, helter skelter to slam, with some impact, against a couple of chairs. One of which, she actually knocks over. The bat stays there, not unconcious, yet shocked, offering a soft whimper....
RW Abbey: Great Hall
The Great Hall of Redwall Abbey. Countless paw falls have echoed from these stones, and untold numbers of feasts and merry gatherings have been held here. A table, not nearly so grand or large as its predecessors, but quite functional for mealtimes, rests near the center of the hall. Chairs exist here aplenty, though most of them are obviously not from the same set. High above, the stain glass windows give the Great Hall a beautiful appearance. The glasswork is exceptionally done, crafted by a skilled artist. The floor is clean and swept. A fire is kept burning in the fireplace at almost all times of the day and night, and there are several more comfortable chairs and cushions set up here, of varying sizes. One looks large enough to easily accommodate a badger.
The Tapestry hangs proud and tall, and while the rest of Redwall may still bear the scars of natural disaster, this most famous of Redwall's relics remains unharmed by beast, time, or the elements. The figure of Martin the Warrior seems to be watching over his own with an unchanging, kindly gaze.
Red, blue, orange, green...vibrant patterns of color are painted on the floorstones of Great Hall by the high afternoon sun that is streaming through the stained glass windows.
Exits/Entrances:
[K]itchen [St]airs [C]avern [H]ole
[Li]brary [En]try [B]reezeway
Contents: a message (board) with notes tacked to it.
Nicodemus walks in more relaxed than he has been in a long time.
Gwennythe is on the floor, beside an upturned chair, and against another chair. She coughs, and whimpers, slowly, trembling to get herself to all fours. A terrified glance is given, upwards. There's a tear in the back of her dress, and a red line across and down below her left shoulder.
Garran was snoozing away in a chair near the fire, So he didn't See Gwennythe or hear her land, or even see the Abbot come in. Snore...Snore...Is the only thing he does.
Nicodemus looks down in surprise at the bat. "What's going on here?"
Nicodemus looks around, then UP.
Gwennythe blinks, slowly turning her head towards the abbot, still trembling down on the floor. "H-he was s-so nice before..."
Nicodemus kneels to be beside the bat. "Who was?"
Garran jumps a bit and wakes up before looking over. "What..err..." He looks at the bat then the Abbot. "Did I miss anything?"
Gwennythe shudders, and gasps a little, suddenly realising she's out of breath and that there's a pain in her shoulder. She peers upwards, ears falling, not answering right away.
Nicodemus has the patience of an old beast.
Garran quietly stands, his healerness kicking in. the hare goes over to Gwennythe. "Are you alright?"
Nicodemus puts up a paw and holds the hare off.
Garran stops and hms a bit.
Garran asks, "Why? Whats wrong?"
Gwennythe peers from Garran to Nicodemus, ears flattening back. She whimpers slightly. "M-my friend..."
Nicodemus puts his finger between his own eyes. "Look here. Take your time."
Garran looks between both of them and then hms. "Well...you going to let me take a look at her or not?" he asks, rather Surprised the Abbot was holding him off.
Nicodemus turns to the hare. "Not, now be silent."
Garran frowns. "I dont care who you are, you dont have the right to hold off a Healer if a beast is Hurt..." he says, not that happy about it really, since a beast fell from quite a far way up. but for some odd reason, he stays where his for the moment.
Gwennythe manages to end up, sitting on the floor. She glances upwards. Nothing. "I th-thought he'd help... To, um, to help catch the bad owl... But... Oh... I've been stupid, haven't I?" There's already evidence of tears, and it looks like they might reappear.
Nicodemus says quietly, "Someone get this hare out of this hall at once."
Nicodemus says, "Before I lose my temper and banish him from the Abbey."
Garran was dumbfounded. "You...What...You cant do this!" he Growls. "I have done nothing wrong"
Nicodemus stays watching the bat, ignoring the nuisance hare, trusting his Order to deal with him.
Nicodemus says, "Take your time, lass."
"Well aren't you the all-powerful one?" It's no secret that Madison holds less respect for the new Abbot than she had for the one previous. She makes her way down the stairs, and while it's been a good few weeks now, perhaps even a couple of months since the revelation of her leg, and while it remains more able than it has in a long time, the cold has urged her to wrap it in more bandages for warmth. "You know, it's often seen as a thing to be praised when a healer tries to help.You're the leader of the do-gooders, you should know that." Madison, though she wouldn't admit it - or would she, these days? - is concerned for the bat, though knows better than to act on her concern yet.
Nicodemus shakes his head. "Remove the squirrel while you're at it."
Garran stares at the Abbot, Trying to see if he's really that cold...He now Ignores the Abbot in return, going fourth to see if the Bat is alright...healing comes first, arguments later
Nicodemus sweeps Garran off to his home.
Garran is sent home.
Garran has left.
Nicodemus summons a brother who drags the hare out.
Gwennythe sniffles and nods. There's another glance upwards. The tears hold off, but she's clearly unhappy. "Drakon." There's no prefix, the name not spat, but no more fondness. "I... I asked him to help..." The squirrel gets an ear turned at her... Not a threat. Calm, a little.
Harper enters the Great Hall to general confusion. Huh. The novice looks around uncertainly, then spies Gwen's form on the ground. His ears flatten as he approaches, quickly, though he stops short of Nicodemus. "Gwen...?"
Nicodemus returns his attention to the bat. "I'm listening. Take y our time."
Harper's eyes are rather stuck on the bat, but Nicodemus' words cut through. He glances at Madison, whom he goes to approach. He holds up his paws. "Please, this is Abbey business." He keeps his voice low.
Gwennythe is sitting, on the floor. Calming down after the fleeing and the initial shock of everything. Another ear perk, to Harper, this one less urgent than for the squirrel's voice. "Um... I... I thought he was nice." She manages a rueful smile. "But he's the murderer... An owl..."
Nicodemus nods. "I see. Would you let me escort you to the infirmary?"
Madison remains where she is, folding her arms, cane hanging from one of her elbows. The novices know better than to approach her directly, even when ordered. She remains silent, watching the bat. She'd heard something about an owl, but the squirrel doesn't actively seek details on, well, anything. But now seems to be an exception. When the Abbot approaches her, she makes grudging eye contact for a moment, then turns away. "When you're finished with your business, make sure your injured resident is seen to. If it's not too much trouble." She doesn't leave, but does head across the huge hall to the fireplace, sitting in a large, cushioned chair.
Harper looks relieved at Madison's acquiescence, or near enough to it. He turns back to Gwen and the Abbot though he doesn't approach, this time.
Gwennythe blinks. She nods to the abbot, gratefully. Her ears are still flattened back, and her eyes damp, yet there seems, for now, no more danger of fresh tears. She starts to get up, gingerly, unable to stop herself from a quick glance upwards.
Nicodemus raises and offers his arm.
Gwennythe gratefully, yet tentatively, accepts.
Gwennythe heads over towards the Stairs..
Gwennythe has left.
Nicodemus heads over towards the Stairs..
Nicodemus has left.
Sivaine comes up the steps from Cavern Hole, half a pasty in her paw.
Madison produces the history book she's suddying currently, the times of Abbess Tansy. She flicks to a marked page and grumbles under her breath... though with deliberate volume, "That mouse hasn't got a clue. Abbot, my tail."
Nicodemus arrives from the Staircase..
Nicodemus has arrived.
Sivaine's gaze flicks to the squirrel - well, the chair the squirrel is in. "Mouse what?"
Nicodemus walks over to the squirrel.
Madison's eyes don't leave the book, starting to read a new section regarding the mysterious Pearls of Lutra. "Hello." she greets the Abbot with a lack of warmth.
Nicodemus says, "Walk with me, if you would."
Nicodemus nods over to the cavern hole.
Madison is silent for another moment, and then closes the book. She stands, "You know, it wasn't long ago that such a request would have been an insult." she says, with her wry manner regarding her old limp. She moves to follow the mouse.
Nicodemus moves off towards the Cavern Hole..
Nicodemus has left.
Madison moves off towards the Cavern Hole..
Madison has left.
Zoe_Lang descends the steps, looking around. Brow-quirk. "Where's the Abbot gone off to...?" She wonders aloud.
Harper stands up from his seat, pointing. "Cavern Hole, Colonel."
Zoe_Lang nods her thanks, heading that way.
Zoe_Lang moves off towards the Cavern Hole..
Zoe_Lang has left.
Eridor comes from the entry.
Eridor has arrived.
Eridor exclaims, "Hey everyone!"
Sivaine is leaning against the wall near the Cavern Hole stairs; at the sound of Eridor's voice, she blinks and looks up. "Er. Pardon?"
Eridor says, ""Hello, I don't think we've been introduced. I'm Eridor, who might you be?""
Sivaine says, "Sivaine." She extends a wary paw. "Did I see you yesterday, 'round the fireplace?"
Eridor accepts the paw and shakes hands. Says "Yes, as a matter of fact I was. I believe I forgot to introduce myself then."
Sivaine says, "Oh, well." The corner of her mouth quirks in a little smile. "Nice to meet you then. What brings you to the Abbey?"
Eridor says, "Well, I wanted to help with the rebuilding of the abbey. Do you know any tasks with which I could assist?"
Sivaine blinks. "Oh, well.." She looks thoughtful for a moment.
Madison arrives from the Cavern Hole..
Madison has arrived.
Sivaine says, "Far as I know, it's in pretty good shape.. old, but stable. I've not been here long, so perhaps you should ask one of the Order, or the Abbot himself?"
Madison emerges from Cavern Hole, catching Siv's words. She responds with a simple, "Don't talk silly." and heads for her chair once again.
Eridor asks, "Really, what do you mean by that?"
Sivaine glances at Madison. "Er.. evening, Madison." She looks back to Eridor. "Are you talking about the damage from the quake?"
Nicodemus arrives from the Cavern Hole..
Nicodemus has arrived.
Eridor says, "Yes. That last question was intended for the mousemaid over there. Erm, excuse me, what's your name?"
Eridor Blushes...
Madison doesn't answer any and, sat, opens her book for the second time.
Turmal arrives from the Staircase..
Turmal has arrived.
Sivaine scratches her ear thoughtfully. "Well, the quake was.. a long time ago. Before you were born, I'm guessing. Most of the damage has been repaired by now, hasn't it?"
Eridor says, "Yes, it was a long time ago, but I walked around the walls, and it looked like that there was still some damage left."
"Right. The walls." Sivaine pinches the bridge of her muzzle, eyes closed. "Don't know where my brain's going.. the walls do need work."
Sivaine says, "Not, though, in this weather. Did you see the ice storm yesterday?"
Eridor says, "I did, but I'd forgotten. I guess that's a project for the spring then."
Eridor asks, "Nicodemus, is there any way I could help in rebuilding the abbey?"
Sivaine smiles wryly. "Yes, best to work when your paws aren't freezing off.. oh. Evening, Father Abbot."
Nicodemus looks at the otter. "By all means; Sivaine's got the truth of it, though. In this season, working on stone, or even on wood, is very dangerous. The shadows will cause ice not to melt, and it will become deadly to those encumbered."
Eridor says, "I know. Patience is a virtue I need to work on."
Sivaine says, "Right now, harvest's in and as far as I know, things are settling down for the winter.."
Sivaine says, "Well, mostly settling."
Nicodemus says, "Martin willing, settling."
Eridor asks, "Well, what do you mean by that?"
Sivaine looks at Nicodemus.
Eridor looks the same way.
Sivaine says, "I don't want to be out of place by answering, Father; forgive me."
Nicodemus waves his paw to the mouse-maid. "You're doing fine, lass."
Sivaine nods, murmuring a 'thank you.'
Sivaine says, "Apart from some mysterious disappearances.. well, you've heard rumors of the sword?""
Eridor says, "No, I have not. Please inform me!"
Nicodemus sits down at the naming of the Sword.
Eridor says, "By the way, I found this red key at a deserted blacksmiths. Here, take a look."
Eridor drops Red Key.
Sivaine says, "That's all it is at the moment - rumors that it's been found, but.. well, I believe we're hoping it'll remain rumors for now."
Turmal slowly descends the stairs, seeing the abbot and mustering the courage to confront the older mouse. He normally would ignore the abbot until he himself was approached, but he decides against doing the same sorts of things the old Turmal might do. He pads over to the group, and takes a seat, quietly, without interrupting. Folds his tail underneath him, takes the scabbard off and sets it on a table.
Eridor says, "I wonder what its for."
Nicodemus looks at the key, "It's very interesting. I've no idea where it might go."
Sivaine blinks and looks down. "Did you? Wonder what it opens.. quite a fancy thing."
Eridor asks, "Shall I leave the key here?"
Sivaine glances up as Turmal enters, and her expression darkens a bit. She hrmfs and looks back to Eridor.
Nicodemus says, "By all means, if you found it, keep it. Who knows what it might lead to?"
Sivaine says, "You might save it 'til spring. Winter's not the best time to be going on mysterious quests."
Eridor says, "Very well. By the way, I was wondering if we could open weekly practice tournaments with the quaterstaff and hand to hand combat."
Nicodemus blanches again.
Nicodemus says, "Winter is definitely not good for questing."
Nicodemus says, "Ah, Eridor, you should talk to Blackjack. I think he'd love to be involved in such a thing."
Eridor asks, "Blackjack? Where could I find him?"
Sivaine coughs. "As far as I know the Abbey isn't in the business of combat training."
Nicodemus chuckles, an old story where "where" was forbidden popping to mind. "I'm not sure, but it's awfully cold and I doubt the polecat wants to be too far from the warmth."
Nicodemus nods. "Nope, but there's plenty of space outside the walls."
Nicodemus says, "Since weapons aren't welcome inside the Abbey itself, to say the least."
Turmal listens intently, to talk of the sword... his eyes widen and he leans forward slightly in the chair. He looks from Sivaine to the abbot and back.
Sivaine shrugs. "That is true."
Sivaine says, "Again, though - it looks like the heavy snows will start soon. Fighting, traveling.. best to stay out of that muck in this weather."
Eridor says, "I know. Although, sometimes it is better to be prepared for times of great need.Thankfully we know that Martin will always send us a champion."
Nicodemus says, "I know in this weather I'd reject any but the most, well, lucrative of projects. Though I'd take orders for furniture."
Nicodemus looks to Martin, "Yes, he sends who is needed, when needed. But when He thinks and when we may think can be very different indeed."
Eridor says, "Well, thats a matter of personality. There are some who will quest at any time for nearly any reason."
Eridor says, "Yes, that is one lesson that we all need to learn."
Nicodemus says, "Ah, the energy of youth."
Eridor asks, "Ah, but does it compare to the wisdom of age?"
"Wealth usually not wisely spent," Sivaine murmurs.
Nicodemus quotes, "I would trust age and cunning over youth and strength any day."
Eridor chuckles.
Eridor says, "It depends on the situation. Always."
Turmal blurts out, "/I/ would be willing to quest... i-in the winter months..."
Nicodemus says, "I get the impression questing is much better in the past-tense."
Eridor says, "About searching for Martin's sword... I was wondering if we could find some clues in the library. However, should we start searching in the biogrophies or the histories?"
Sivaine raises a brow at Turmal's words.
Eridor says, "Well, questing is always better in the past-tense. It means you've already achieved your objective! And who doesn't want that?"
Nicodemus shivers.
Sivaine says, "I think Father Abbot may be referring to the less romantic aspects of questing."
Sivaine says, "Stories never talk about frozen paws, washed-out roads and hordes of mosquitos."
Nicodemus says, "And not all quests which are survived are successful. Matthias had many attempts at the sword that came up dry."
Turmal says, "If anything should happen to me, I would consider it my punishment for the ill will I have spread around the abbey, and the damage I have caused... If I should succeed, then I would be honored and hopefully bring honor back to my name. To redeem myself. I beg for this chance, Father Abbot.""
Eridor tenses slightly and says,"Well, in the end he was succesfull, and each attempt led him one step closer. Its all in how you look at it.
Eridor says, "By the way, I have not yet been introduced to this brave youth. My name is Eridor."
Nicodemus looks at Turmal. "What do you wish to do? The last I heard, your ... issue had been resolved to satisfaction."
Sivaine assumes a carefully neutral expression, gaze flicking between the three other beasts gathered.
Nicodemus suddenly catches on. "Wait, both of you are seeking permission to quest for the Sword?"
Nicodemus shakes his head. "That's not my permission to give or with-hold."
Eridor nods and says, "It is Martin's to give or take. I can only say that I am more than willing, if I should get the chance."
Sivaine says, "..do we really need to quest for the Sword."
Turmal extends a paw to Eridor, and reciprocates, "I am Turmal... and, Father, /I/ do not feel as though I have done enough to compensate for the misery I have caused. I wish not only to return in neutral standing, but to be remembered for what good I did for the abbey."
Nicodemus sighs. "Turmal, by all means, I hope you do good and have the joy of it."
Eridor shakes paws and says, "I wish you well in your quest to do good for the abbey. I only wish I might do the same thing. What is your name, brave warrior?
Nicodemus looks at Madison and looks away. "Gentlebeasts, you don't understand. The Champion answers to me, when Martin appoints him or her. But, I don't have any say in the choice. I have ... authority in some areas, but not this one."
"..I'm going to get some tea. Please excuse me." With these words, Sivaine disappears into the kitchen.
Eridor says, "If only we knew what the red key unlocks. That might give us a start."
Eridor drops Red Key.
A smile wider than the mouse's own face bears itself on Turmal expression, and he stands up, leaning down to try to hug the abbot in his gratitude, "Oh, thank you, Father Abbot, thank you!! I am a changed mouse, I assure you... my mind has been wiped clean and restored to me, and with a change in heart as well."
Eridor turns to Turmal and says, "Here, take this key. Perhaps it might help you on your journey."
Turmal accepts the key, still grinning, and nods, "I will, and thank you. Although... would you not like to join me?"
Eridor exclaims, ""I would like nothing better! Shall we start where I found this key? Look for the Crimson Anvil. Mayhaps we shall find a clue there."
Eridor turns to the Father Abbot and says "Goodbye Father Abbot, perhaps we shall meet again soon."
Eridor heads outside and into the Abbey Entry..
Eridor has left.
Turmal says, "My friend, you seem already hot on the trail of this thing. I would be grateful for your guidance, and this sounds like a very good idea indeed.""
Nicodemus waves as the otter dashes out. "Most likely, around meal-time tomorrow."
Demmer comes in from the library.
Demmer has arrived.
Turmal calls back as he follows Eridor, "You will not regret this decision, Abbot!"
Demmer comes out of the library, a scrap of folded parchment in his paw.
Turmal heads outside and into the Abbey Entry..
Turmal has left.
Sivaine returns from the kitchen, a steaming mug between her paws. She looks about the Great Hall for a moment, then asks, "..where have they got off to, then?"
Nicodemus waves a paw. "I'd say they were arrows shot by a master ... they left like a squirrel with his tail on fire."
Sivaine asks, "In _this_ weather? They must be mad."
Nicodemus ponders that.
Sivaine says, "Madder than I thought, at least."
Nicodemus says, "Probably."
Demmer says, "Hello, Sivaine. Arrows? what? Does this have something to do with the owl attack Starlenia mentioned?"
Sivaine looks surprised, and slightly alarmed. "What owl attack?"
Nicodemus says, "I believe the owl that attacked Gwen; probably, hopefully, the one that's been troublesome to others."
Sivaine furrows her brow. "Gwennythe? When?"
Sivaine moves toward the fire and Nicodemus.
Nicodemus ums. "Earlier this evening."
Demmer nods, "That sounds about like she... said." He walks over, as well, taking a seat.
Sivaine frowns. "Right."
Sivaine says, "She didn't look as if she'd come in from outside.."
Nicodemus jumps up onto one of the beams overhead!
Nicodemus has left.
From Beams above the Great Hall, Nicodemus jumps up onto one of the beams overhead!
From Beams above the Great Hall, Nicodemus has left.
From Beams above the Great Hall, Nicodemus has arrived.
From Beams above the Great Hall, Nicodemus says, "Here."
From Beams above the Great Hall, Nicodemus says, "The benefit of wings ... it's less wear and tear on the old joints for a leap."
From Beams above the Great Hall, Nicodemus sits on the beams recovering from his jump.
Sivaine blinks, and looks up.
Demmer looks up. "And he calls himself an old squirrel..."
Sivaine says, "If she came down from there in such a state, the owl was.. is it still up there?"
From Beams above the Great Hall, Nicodemus mutters, "Why do people forget "old" is not "dead.""
From Beams above the Great Hall, Nicodemus ums....
Nicodemus drops down from the beams.
Nicodemus has arrived.
Nicodemus sits down heavily.
Nicodemus says, "I'd not thought about that. It ... those with wings can go higher, at least, without climbing equipment. So, the owl could still be up there, higher."
Demmer blinks, "The attack was here in the hall???"
Sivaine sets her tea down on a nearby table and rests her paws on her hips. "So we're standing about in the Great Hall talking, while a great murderous bird might be above us?" she asks dubiously.
Nicodemus nods. "She was attacked far higher than I could climb. She fled down."
Nicodemus ponders that. "How strange, the idea of going down for safety."
Demmer frowns and hmms... "Nowhere to hide up there? Down here, there are other smaller rooms."
Sivaine keeps her eyes trained upward. "Unconventional, I suppose."
Sivaine says, "If he's up there, he could pick off any creaure who wandered through for a late-night snack.."
Nicodemus nods. "However, I've asked Zoe to have the LP hunt him down.
Sivaine twitches her whiskers. "Zoe? This the Colonel I hear Harper talk of?"
Nicodemus says, "I trust that the Long Patrol will manage the operation."
Demmer asks, "Will they be leaving some beast in here, in case the Owl is still here?"
Nicodemus nods.
Sivaine says, "Well, if he's in _here_.."
Nicodemus says, "Demmer, I've no idea."
Sivaine squints, trying to see into the gloom. "..you more or less have him trapped, don't you?"
Nicodemus um. "I suppose. If we were to ignite a bonfire it would cook him out. But, the damage would be...pretty severe."
Demmer hmms... "Atleast you have some beasts you trust to help with this..."
Sivaine ers. "Well, I wouldn't go that far."
Nicodemus says, "More to the point, I hope they can catch him alive. A trial is best done before planning an execution."
Sivaine says, "But block the exits and you'd have him, at the least, contained."
Demmer asks, "Maybe a good sling shot sitting in the corner to scare him off?"
Sivaine says, "A net, perhaps.."
Sivaine shakes her head and takes a deep sip of her tea. "Not my place. I'm sure the Patrol will handle it, but.."
Demmer asks, "You don't like feeling helpless while every beast is in danger?"
Sivaine shoots a glance at the otter, and has a seat. "This is the problem with staying in one place too long; people start to know me."
Nicodemus says, "I feel helpless a lot. Like it? No. Live with it? My wife had a simple saying, a reminder to those who command: Please don't let me fail my beasts. That's what scares HER. Not death, injury, or any of that. It's failing her fellows."
Nicodemus looks at Sivaine. "And if you're feeling that, it sounds like you've had the same experience."
Sivaine's eartips turn a bit pink, and she gestures vaguely. "My sister," she says.
Demmer says, "I just wish I knew enough to sit here all night and catch the owl if it showed again... but with as little as I know... I couldn't hope for better than killing it."
Demmer says, "And even that is a wild hope."
Sivaine frowns. "And Starlenia, now. Layne. Lucas. Harper. You, Demmer, though I daresay you could bend me in half."
Sivaine grins lopsidedly at the otter.
Nicodemus raises to his feet.
Sivaine looks up. "Er.."
Nicodemus says, "Beasts, one can only die once, but one can contemplate to no end, and each time it's like a mini-death. Live ... death will come soon enough, no matter when it comes."
Demmer chuckles. "Not going to happen any time soon, Sivaine..." Black eyes turn to Nicodemus.
Nicodemus says, "In any event, I'm going to contemplate the warm covers in my cell."
Demmer says, "Yeah. I'm just tired of wishing I could do something about things."
Nicodemus says, "Some things you can do, some things you can not. Do what you can. More is impossible, and less is unthinkable."
Nicodemus mutters, "Though many do far less without a concern in the world."
Demmer unfolds his scrap scroll and points his nose at it. "Good night, Nic. Stay warm." His mouth starts moving.
Sivaine nods slowly, though her ears stay on the alert and she glances up at the ceiling every now and then. "Well. Enjoy your covers then, Father?"
Nicodemus nods. "I will. I sleep comfortable knowing that the Long Patrol is active and capable."
Nicodemus heads over towards the Stairs..
Nicodemus has left.
Rys arrives from the Staircase..
Rys has arrived.
Sivaine looks back to Demmer. For a moment. "He's a cool one," she comments.
Demmer smiles. "Someday, I'd like to be half the beast he is..." he says, then he starts muttering softly.... "the-ick" "st-st-all-key..."
"Mm," Sivaine nods. "At half the age, I'd hope.. cunning _and_ strength would be nice."
Sivaine tilts her head to the side. "Is that a healing scroll?"
Demmer chuckles softly. The muttering continues. "Boo-shees" "a-a-a-bow-uht..." Black eyes turn to Sivaine, with a gentle smile. "One of the sisters wrote it to practice reading and learn a few herbs..."
Sivaine blinks. "Oh, you.. can't read..?" Pause. "Er. Well."
Demmer nods gently... "Yeah... I know...." Black eyes turn back to the paper, or the floor.
Sivaine asks, "What? No - you've no idea how many grown beasts I've met that don't know how, Demmer."
Sivaine says, "I'd almost come to expect it sometimes. I'm just.. out of practice, I suppose."
Demmer nods gently... "I never really had time to learn much of anything..."
Antioc arrives from the Staircase..
Antioc has arrived.
"Abbey School's the exception to the rule of most places. That beasts here are literate is.. unusual," Sivaine says.
Demmer nods, "There's several things I intend to learn... in time.."
Sivaine says, "Here's the place to do it, then."
Demmer shakes his head, "Not all of it."
Sivaine takes a sip of her tea. "Well. Quite a bit of it, if it's healing you're intending. Or is it other things?"
Demmer says, "I don't like being helpless to attacking owls... or foxes with their arrows..."
Sivaine says, "Well, I don't think anybeast does."
Antioc comes walking down the stairs, looking well rested for once. Hearing voices he stops a few feet past the bottom of the stairs and looks to see who was there.
Sivaine rises and takes a seat closer to Demmer - right next to him, actually.
A chair near Sivaine and Demmer creaks under an invisible squirrelmaid, who's finally gained the courage to slip out into Great Hall. The dark rafters above are given many nervous glances, too.
Sivaine asks, "So you want to learn how to defend yourself then, is that it?"
Rys comes down the stairs, looking slightly battered after having fallen down the stairs the other day, but seems to be fine. Much better, in fact. He no longer looks like one of the living dead and the stoat is alert and coordinated.
Sivaine glances at Starlenia, gives a little nod and a smile. Hello.
Demmer starts mutterring again, "The" "leeee-ves" "ah-are e-ther". He nods gently to Sivaine... "A home that isn't safe isn't a home..." he says gently. He turns to the creaking sound and offers a gentle smile.
Antioc seeing that Star was over there with the group, he hesitates and doesn't move from his spot. He kind of scared her last night in the library.
Sivaine says, "No, it isn't." She frowns. "Poor Gwennythe.. frf. I suppose I'll leave you to your reading."
Demmer shakes his head, putting his paper down. "And a home isn't a home if you can't enjoy the squirrels and mice and such that you call friends and family...." He smiles gently.
Sivaine smiles slightly. "Very generous of you." She glances upward. "I suppose _now_ we can run about with our coats over our heads."
Rys yawns, reaching the bottom of the stairs. Noticing the group he's been around continually, the stoat hesitantly raises a paw, and after a while, waves.
Sivaine glances over. "Evening," she calls. "Both of you." A nod to Antioc.
Antioc looks over, being at the bottom of the stairs himself. He smiles faintly, then looks back to the source of the voice. He waves and takes a slow step forward.
Starlenia hasn't noticed Antioc - she's too busy hiding from owls. Her ear's still stained with ink too. >.>
Turmal comes from the entry.
Turmal has arrived.
Demmer waves a gentle hellow. "I wish I could tell you something that would make you feel better, Starlenia."
Sivaine asks, "The owl, Star?"
Rys comes over, sitting down. After a while, he offered a somewhat quiet, and one might even say timid, "Hi..."
Sivaine says, "Hello yourself."
Starlenia nods, and glances up 'bove again - just to be sure. An owl could fly down at her at any moment!
Sivaine huffs, and crosses her arms. "I really do hate being useless."
Antioc keeps walking over to the group, but he makes sure to keep a good distance between himself and Star, staying somewhat outside of the circle.
Demmer's head turns about slowly as black eyes come to a rest on Turmal. "Ah...."
Demmer chuckles, "I know what you mean, Sivaine..."
Antioc just stands off to the side, listening. He would speak up once he figured out what they were talking about. He keeps himself from looking at Star, thinking that she was a little less frightened when he didn't look at her.
"If this were the road," Sivaine says, "or even the usual winter berth, it'd be much.. smaller. I'd be able to do something."
Sivaine says, "Here, though, Ardice and I are lodgers. Authority lies somewhere else, so we defer to it."
Harper enters the Great Hall, looking around uncertainly. He rubs the back of his neck, approaching the small grouping.
Starlenia's ears swivel back and forth, listening to Demmer and Sivaine. The snow is cutting off her daydream reception. Hmph. <.<
Demmer shrugs... "I donno... Being untrained, anything would be lucky..."
Sivaine glowers at that. "Yes, I can tell boring stories until it falls asleep and drops off its perch."
"Is everyone okay?" Harper queries as he nears.
Antioc glances over at Harper and smiles, still off to the side of the group, "'Ello Harper."
Sivaine blinks and looks up, relaxing slightly. "Oh. Yes, no silent swooping shapes here."
Demmer smiles briefly to Starlenia.... "Not now, anyway."
"... Good," Harper looks relieved. He nods to Antioc, grinning slightly. "'Llo."
Rys merely sits and listens for now, leaning back into his chair. One thing the stoat can't hide is his black eye, which he got from the stairs. Other than that, he appears to have few injuries.
Antioc glances back at the group then turns to Harper again, "How ye been matey?"
Starlenia shivers, and her ears turn to stare at Demmer accusingly. That was mean. -.-
"But," Sivaine points out, "there's the possibility it's still up there."
"... Good. Glad Gwen's not hurt badly." He glances back towards the entry. "The Patrollers have been given permission t'carry their weapons 'til the owl's found... They're, well. Patrollin' about." Heh.
Rys's ears perk at this. "An owl.....?" Seems his interest has really been gotten now.
Sivaine cants her head to the side. "How many of them are there? Haven't seen that many hares about."
"They've a place they stay while they're visitin' Mossflowah. I'd say half their force is in the area," Harper estimates. "Looks like about a third o' that at the abbey, righ' now."
Sivaine says, "Ah. Everything all taken care of, then."
Demmer says, "Hopefully, pretty soon."
Rys blinks. No one's really answered his question about the owl. Only conversed about hares.
Harper glances at Rys. "The owl, um. An owl, Drakon, attacked Gwen. A bat. Um... She says he's the murderer."
Rys blinked again. "Murderer....?" Now he really is confused.
Demmer leans back in his chair. "The Abbot is hoping to catch the owl alive and have a trial..."
Rys says, "Did the owl...kill some beast here....?""
Antioc blinks at the mention of murder. At least his name wasn't attached to it wrongly. He swallows and looks at Harper.
"There were beasts who went missin'... And Gwen says that this owl, he's the one who did it." Harper looks rather grimly from one to the other. "The Patrol's going t'be hard-pressed t'catch a beast with flight alive."
Rys gave a hrm...."Where is the patrol now?"
Demmer says, "That's what I was thinking..."
"They're patrollin' the abbey grounds," Harper answers, "And the area area it, from what I c'n tell."
Sivaine says, "Alive. Hm."
Rys nodded. "Hmm......I might be able to find this owl."
Demmer nods, "Its good to know some beasts are keeping things save..." He turns to look at Rys. "Hmm..."
Sivaine says, "Flight is wings. Get rid of the wings, you get rid of the flight."
Antioc speaks up quietly, "What if'n ye put some line up 'round th' top 'o th' abby, attached to th' walls..."
Harper smiles slightly at Sivaine, nodding. "Aye. I used t'be a righ' smart shot. They train all their archahs t'be. I wouldn't be surprised if that's what they'll have t'do."
Sivaine nods. "It's not just the flight, though," she points out. "Once you've got it down on the ground, those talons.."
Demmer says, "I'm sure it'll take more than a few beasts being smarter than the lot of us to lay paw on that owl...."
Sivaine frowns faintly. "Nets? Bolas?"
Harper winces a bit at mention of the talons. "Well... there's always nets." He glances to Sivaine, grinning at their similar thought.
Antioc falls silent again, thinking his words fell on deaf ears.
Rys says, "I could shoot it down." He doesn't want to sound like he's bragging, but it's actually very true, considering a certain otter had this stoat's bow that he'd dredged from the pond the other day."
Harper glances to Antioc. "Y'know, speakin' of line, I wonder if they couldn't set up a trap, of sorts... With a bit o' bait, 'course."
Antioc nods, "I could fix ye up near anythin if'n ye give me line."
Sivaine shakes her head. "We knew an owl, once - a decent one, that is. They.." She holds up her paws and makes them into claw shapes. "You need to hold the feet tight as anything. Tie them together, even, get something to have them clench on."
Demmer asks, "Which one of you is volunteering to be the bait?" He looks between Harper and Antioc. "Eh?"
"... Well, I think it'd make the most sense for a mouse t'volunteer, but if it came t'that, I would." Harper shrugs disarmingly. "The idea's not for the bait t'be eaten, after all."
Rys glanced. "Is that a humorous question or a serious one?"
Antioc looks at Harper then steps forward with a shake of his head, "No. I'll do it if'n it comes down." He looks back at Harper, there was one mouse in particular that he would put his life in danger for, and keeping her safe was priority to him.
Sivaine narrows her eyes slightly. "If you need a mouse, Harper.."
Demmer glares with a twisted smile at Antioc. "Quick to volunteer some other beast for this?" he says gravely. "Atleast the Ferret's got a backbone...."
Ohhh no she doesn't. Harper looks sharply at Sivaine, "No!" I meeean. He colors. "You've... you've got your sister t'think of." Heh?
Rys says, "I'll do it...." It's the least he could do, since he was a regular little.....nuisance....when he was a dibbun's age and had been taken in."
"Yes, that's exactly my point," Sivaine replies crisply. "If I can't to something, I'm going to go mad."
Demmer shakes his head. "All y'all just leave it to the Patrol. The Abbott trusts them to take care of it instead a bunch of random beasts charging in weapons drawn getting themselve's killed instead."
"I hate being a random beast," Sivaine mutters.
.
"D-d-don't.." Starlenia mumbles, rather worried, to Sivaine - she's finally remembered how to speak.
Rys gives a snort. Seem's he's slightly offended. Ah, well. He'll get over it.
Harper colors a bit more. "But... well... I meant, well." He hesitates, about to continue when Demmer speaks up. Oh good. He nods. "Demmer's right." Of course he is!
Antioc shakes his head, "If'n I be makin any kind 'o snare 'r trap, I ain't gonna ask no beast 'at don' know me ta trust me work." He looks back at Harper and lowers his voice, "'Sides, if'n I c'n do
somethin' ta keep beasts safe, I'll do it." He was sure Harper would know what he was talking about.
Demmer asks, "So, Ferret, will you be catching the owl alive or dead? The Abbott prefers alive, just in case everybeast is wrong and the owl doesn't really deserve to die."
Sivaine eyes Harper with speculation, then waves a paw dismissively. "Don't worry. Unless I'm asked outright, I'm not going to be that daftly selfless.. but something to do would be nice, other than the potato-peeling I've been occupying myself with."
Sivaine tilts her head to the side and crosses her arms. "Well, I'm assuming there's room for the Patrol in this plan of yours, or it'll go by the Patrol first?"
Demmer turns his head to Sivaine. "This must be why the Order teaches peace and relies on others to keep them safe... To keep beasts from running off wild killing any beast that might be a danger..."
Harper does know. He nods to Antioc. "Aye. But such things are best left to those outside the Ordah. Our duty lies not in killin' or capturin', but in the healin' craft 'n' scholarship."
Harper glances at Demmer, smiling slightly.
Antioc nods, he was due to talk to the abbot about becoming a novice tomorrow. He would just have to do what he could inside the abby.
Sivaine says, "Demmer, are you.. implying something by that?"
Demmer shrugs lightly... "Just that there is a lot of fear and anger floating around this evening."
"We're all just worried. I know seein' Gwen huddled like that on the floor..." Harper trails off, shrugging. "I c'n understand folks bein' upset."
Sivaine sighs, and slumps back in her chair. "True enough. I am a very angry beastie."
Rys blinks. Hadn't heard of it until now....been too busy having nightmares about some so-called 'death god'.
Demmer nods gently. "And poor Starlenia's sitting over there, quietly as usual, listening to all this talk."
The squirrelvine is only visible when no-one's looking at it! Hmph. Starlenia tries to turn 'nvisible again, but not very well 'tall.
Sivaine winces, and looks over. "You have been, haven't you," she says apologetically to the quiet novice. "..I'm sorry."
Harper glances to Star, as well, surprised she's sitting there with Antioc about. He smiles slightly at the novice, then says to the lot of them. "Well... I for one will be glad when the beast is captured 'n' this can all be resolved."
Antioc nods once again, "Yer right Harper." He glances back to the rest of the group, "I gots ta be gettin to studyin, jus' let me know if'n ye need me ta tie some line fer ye." After saying that he turns and walks towards the library.
Antioc heads off towards the Library..
Antioc has left.
Starlenia doesn't hide in the armchair /quite/ so much when Antioc leaves. Her ears watch the library uneasily for a moment though - she won't forget last night soon. -.-
Demmer stands, walking himself over to the fresh, hot tea. "Hot tea, any beast?"
Rys glanced at it, sniffing. "Sure..."
Harper shakes his head. "No. Thanks, m'good."
Demmer fills two cups, his head turning to listen for other takers. "Star? Sivaine?"
Sivaine shakes her head. "Surprisingly, I think I'm tea'd out at the moment."
Demmer turns, walking back with just two hot, steaming teas. One is extended to Rys. "There you go. Warm the bones."
Harper hms. He looks towards the library. "I think I'll go on in 'n' study with Antioc... Night, everyone." He nods to all.
Rys nods, although his 'bones' don't need warmed. In fact, one could say the opposite. Specially after falling down the stairs. After sniffing at it a bit, the stoat starts chugging it, finishing his cup shortly after.
Demmer offers a quick, "Good night."
Sivaine says, "Ah. 'Night, Harper. Stay safe."
A quiet "G-g'night, um, Harper," comes from the invisible novice.
Harper looks back at Sivaine, with a grin. "You too." He waves to the others and heads off.
Demmer asks, "Star? Would you like some hot tea?"
Starlenia nods. "M-m-may, um.. may I p-please?"
Demmer smiles, offering other cup. "My pleasure, Star."
Sivaine says, "Well. Rather than twiddle my paws about and fret.. anybeast care for a story?"
Rys nodded, having nothing else to do.
Demmer asks, "Got any happy ones?"
Sivaine gives Demmer an arch look. "Have you forgotten the party?" A wan grin.
Starlenia carefully accepts the tea from Demmer and curls up in her chair - tea and a story make a happy skrlball.
Demmer blinks, turning back to the tea. "Sorry, my memory of that night is a little fuzzy...." He smiles gently, filling himself a tea.
Sivaine purses her lips and nods. "Well, that's understandable. Something happy, then.. let's see."
Sivaine asks, "Does one that end happily count?"
Sivaine says, "Or perhaps a more instructive sort of tale."
Demmer returns to his seat. "What do you say, Starlenia?"
Starlenia says.. nothing! But she nods. A happy story sounds lovely!
Sivaine hmms. "Well, a short, silly one, then."
Sivaine says, "Let's try this. Once there was a pretty young hogmaid who had been out collecting berries. She had three buckets and only two paws, so the only place left for the last bucket was on her head."
Demmer says, "Notice I went back for a third cup of tea -- I'm not that crazy..."
Sivaine half-smirks. "Crazy, or young?" she teases. "In any case, it worked out rather well - the bucket had a flat bottom and the hogmaid a rather flat head, so it balanced nicely."
Sivaine says, "So along she goes, back to her family's dwelling with her buckets of berries, and as she goes she begins to think to herself about how many sorts of pies she can make."
Sivaine says, "Whortleberry, raspberry.. what sort of pie do you like best, Star?"
"Um," says Starlenia - she's thinking. "R-r-rasp.. berry?" She doesn't sound very certain.
Sivaine is satisfied with a bit of interaction. "Raspberry's good," she nods, sitting back. "So she begins thinking, 'So many raspberries! With this many, I could make more pies than we could ever eat in a season. I'd have enough to take to market.'"
Sivaine says, "'And with that money, I could buy needles and cloth in all sorts of colors, even a bit of lace and ribbon.."
Sivaine says, "..and with those things, I'd sew a beautiful gown to wear when I dance at the harvest festival."
Sivaine's voice rises in pitch, imitating the breathy, fluting tones of a young girl. She clasps her paws together and her eyes fair sparkle. "And Horty Spikeback and Mirglo Pinpaunch would be there, and would admire me so much that they'd come over to pay respects and woo.."
Demmer smiles gently take another sip of tea.
"..but I shall toss my head and have nothing to say to them.'" And Sivaine sticks her nose in the air with a little 'hmph.'
Sivaine looks back to Starlenia and Demmer with the usual wry expression. "And because she'd quite forgotten her bucket by this time, she tossed her head like so.. and down went the bucket, out went the berries, and trip went the hogmaid, dropping her other two buckets! And all her fine castles in the air vanished in a moment."
Sivaine says, "Not to mention her dignity."
Sivaine sits back, signaling the end of the story.
Rys gave a hrm. ~So much for fancy things...~
