Greystone Tavern

(20:16:29) Tamarine Gabaldi slips out of the door as it is opened for her, her cheeks still burning a light red as he did so, dipping her head politely before heading out. Luckily her embroidered green cloak seemed to help keep her warm regardless of the cold night, commenting to him as she made her way into the crisp evening air "You're quite lucky you have one lazy nephew and not a dozen very, very active brothers and sisters. There is nothing more horrifying, be they young or old." she quipped, following him along to his store.

(20:24:46) Rexington is standing up on the stable's balcony, looking as if he might be feeling quite ontop of the world. That fierce grin is sent down Charlie and Tam's way as they come up closer, a brow perking. "If you're here for the Branding you're alittle early yet."

(20:26:18) Charlie Byrd gives a chuckle at the female's words, and steps along to the side of the barn, pausing at that voice from above. Blue eyes peer upward before he responds with, "Not at all, sir, we were going to see to a little business beforehand." That said, he continues on. The elderly chipmunk takes a moment to light a lantern against his little cart at the back of the barn, and then sees to unlocking the wagon, revealing quite a few woodworking tools. A wandering gaze might notice a few pieces of promising firewood tucked against the wheels as well, "I have several siblings myself, and was considered the baby of the family. But they are all back in Malgrave."

(20:31:31) Tamarine Gabaldi peers up for a brief moment, the hare's ears twitching upon hearing the sound of a voice high above. Still clutching her freshly bandaged paw, she simply gave the man a nervous and brief smile before lowering her gaze, admitting aside to Charlie "People seem morbidly interested in this Branding. I was not aware people here were that fond of harsh publish punishments." before stopping by his cart, peering at the wagon and glancing at the tools, blinking in surprise. Whilst examining them, she comments on his words "Must be hard leaving home, eh? I mean...I know how it is. I spent most of my life living with my family within the woods. This is the first time I am interacting with so many new people. I have to admit, I feel overwhelmed at times. Lost."

(20:34:13) Rexington gave a barking laugh, "Harsh? Dear miss, a man nearly kills a Noble and you call a Branding harsh? By the King's Law I could execute him should I wish... but I am a merciful man." he paused, looking between the two with a grin, "It is their civil duty to be a witness to Hagar's crimes. If they do not I will fine them harshly."

(20:36:20) Charlie Byrd's lantern continues to illuminate the little cart full of tools, and he glances toward the lapine as he answers with, "I don't believe many are, young lady." Blue eyes returning to the wagon, he offers a nod, though a response on missing family is halted a moment as the male above them gives his rebuttal. Rounded ears twitching, he holds his tongue, instead glancing to the lapine, "Let me see what work you have, my dear, to see what level of craft you have."
(20:38:20) Phillip Byrd toddled up with a little bag of cookies in one hand, crumbs on one cheek, and a light dance to his step. "Uncle Charlie! Uncle Charlie! I heard everyone murmering about a gathering tonight. Do you think there will be dancing? Pretty girls? Have you had one of these cookies? Ohmanthey'regood." Someone had too much sugar.

(20:45:48) Tamarine Gabaldi felt a wave of unease wash over her as she heard the words of the man above. She could not identify him, and she very well did not want to. She simply took the punishment as she had to and pinned her ears back, hoping to block out anything further. She briefly touched on the previous subject with "Silly observations...I tend to be a bit paranoid." before reaching back to the leather straps holding her rucksack and quiver, pulling them aside as she would set the rucksack down by the wagon, holding up the bow to him and running her finger alongside it "I helped cut this myself. I made it last year. The knife was freshly whettled steel." she showed it off to him, running a claw over the intricate patterns down the grip "Carved with a hair-breadth spike, careful strokes. No chipping...yew I believe." she bounced the bow in her hand, about to go on to showing him some more items before - lo and behold! A hyperactive newcomer. She paused for a moment, chuckling at the -

(20:45:53) Tamarine Gabaldi barrage of comments before commenting "Is this the Fillip you were talking about? You forgot to mention he was lively!"

(20:47:40) Rexington is not answered with anything close to defiance, and so the Knight thankfully leaves them all be after another laugh, turning to scan the area for the man of the hour, Hagar.

(20:51:33) Charlie Byrd looks over the offered weapon with a perk of his ears, and reaches out as she finishes speaking, "May I?" Taking the bow if permitted, he runs his own little tests on it, those bright blue eyes turning toward his nephew, and a long suffering expression showing on the elder's face. Shaking his head, he answers with, "Flip, this wont be a social gathering! They are setting out to punish a fellow for attempting to poison one of the knights. You might want to tuck those cookies away for now, dear boy." He nods at the female's question, "Yes, this is Philip Um Byrd, my nephew. Flip, this young lady is thinking of working with me in the carpentry business."

(20:53:38) Twila Elsey grasped Caridad's paw tight as they walked towards the stable, pinning her ears back anxiously. "Ruthie told me as soon as I got back," she whispered, waving to the squirrel who already stood outside the stable with the rest of the crowd. She peered at everyone gathered and pinned her ears back as she edged a little closer to the large femme at her side.

(20:53:52) Phillip Byrd noticed the woman for the first time, shoved the cookies in his pocket, wiped his face, straightened his pink hair, and stood up straight all fast enough that it was done before his full name was pronounced. "Good evening, Lady. It's a pleasure to meet you. May I have the pleasure of your name?" Smooth as silk. Smooth as butter! He bowed, too, and it was nice until he tried to be smooth by taking up her paw and kissing it, only to realize she was just out of reach, so he swiped towards her, missing, and then fell right on his face. "....I'm cursed." He said in a muffled voice.

(20:55:09) Caridad would arrive with Twila, gently grasping the considerable smaller vixen's paw. She'd notice the other furres that were gathered around, but since she didn't know most of them, she remained rather quiet. "Yes. We can talk later." She'd say, simply, to Twila. She would give a nod to Leander and Mika, however.

(20:56:23) Narsuun padded toward the stables looking grim. He offered a nod or a forced smile to the folk he know; Caridad, Charlie, Phillip, Mika and Tamarine. One arm rested upon his sword, and it looked as if he was all business, at least for now.

(20:56:35) One Eye Jay reaches out to etwine his left paw with Silver's right...

(20:56:43) Mikhael Solberg hung back, placing himself near a rock so that he couldn't be penned in by the crowd. He folded his arms over his chest and settled into resolute silence to observe the foolish foreigner's punishment.

(20:59:00) Silver Sapphira arrives with Jay, moving to casually lean her shoulder against his while remaining silent.

(20:59:30) Tamarine Gabaldi allows her new 'boss' to take a look at her handiwork, ever so glad to offer it to him. It was indeed a yew bow. Short, built for closer ranges and yet sturdy in it's design. The string was made of tightly woven flax and shallow carvings. Upon being addressed by Phillip, she could not help but giggle a little, especially when he tried to butter her up. Upon watching him fall, she slowly bent down to try grasping him by the shoulders and help him up "No need to try so hard! If there is one thing I've learned, the way to someone's heart is watching where you step." she reached over to prod at his nose "And not where you trip." she added, before rather nervously glancing at Charlie, before her attention was briefly stolen at the goings-on behind her. The branding was starting. Part of her felt she should watch, wanting to respect her soon-to-be-punished friend...and part of her - that desperate, ningling, virgin-to-all-wrong innocent side - wanted to look away. To act -
(20:59:32) Tamarine Gabaldi--as if nothing was happening. The tension was causing her to feel a bit nauseas.

(21:00:38) Ana Drakfass pads up, stopping near Mika but even farther away from the crowsd. She'd lean back against the rocks, crossing her arms under her chest and frowning gently. She wasn't trying to hide that she greatly disapproved of things like this.

(21:02:17) Charlie Byrd locks his wagon back up after giving a satisfied nod, sighing a little at his nephew's antics. Handing the bow back to the female, he says, "If you do the rest so well, I'm sure you'll make a fine pupil, dear girl." Those bright blue eyes slanting toward the front of the barn, he blows out his lantern and begins to hobble in that direction as he adds, "Suppose we'd better join the crowd, pups, come along."

(21:03:05) Anastacia arrives and makes sure to take a position in the front, her countenance dour. She did not want to be here but despite the fact she was and as promised there was an amber coated rose on her person. She stood there clutching her gown and occasionally looking back to Farin as nervously as possible.

(21:03:54) Phillip Byrd pushed himself up to his feet and smiled gratefully to Tamarine for her help. He dusted himself off and flushed nearly as pink as his hair. "Ah..uh...fanks." He said 'fanks' because he still had dirt in his mouth, which he was trying to hide, and doing fairly well until he coughed. "Mmrf. Ahh. Gotta...Uncle." He had to uncle right away, right? He scurried after Charlie and took a measured and careful pace by his side, offering his arm to the older man if he wanted it. "You feel alright, Uncle Charlie?'

(21:05:17) Farin crossed his arms over his broad chest, trying not to scowl as he stood waiting. He aimed to stay just long enough to see the deed done before rabbiting away.

(21:05:30) Rexington is atop the balcony, grinning down at the crowd. An officer is kind enough to bring Hagar up and the manx gives a wave down at the wolf. "If it isn't the man of the hour..." he chuckled. "Come on up, I think the crowd grows restless to see justice restored..." A few soldiers are seen escorting various furres into the area to watch the event go down.

(21:07:39) Tamarine Gabaldi felt Charlie's words sink into her very soul. Not the words complimenting her bow - which she took back and slung back along with her other items - but rather the request to join the crowd. Almost hesitating at first, she followed the two of them in complete silence. For once in her entire visit, she was dead silent. She had nothing she wanted to say. So she simply followed, setting in the crowd with them. Peering around at the guards didn't help. It made her feel surrounded. But one look up at Rex and she quickly identified a clear feeling. Eyes narrowing, she could definitely feel distaste for this person. One arrow to the crotch is all she needed...but, that definitely would have to wait!

(21:09:05) Hagar Darkwind eyes would dart to the many groups of people, analyzing the crowd. He wanted to at least know if someone was going to throw things at him. His eyes would fall on Anya and the rose a moment, bringing a bit of a calm over him. He was glad she was here, even if he could tell she did not want to. He would walk over to Rex and nod to the man. "Indeed! What a crowd I have drawn, Ser Knight. So tell me. How do we proceed?"

(21:12:06) Ana Drakfass would keep glancing over at Mika, every so often, but other than that she'd stay quiet. The fluffy little chilla's ears stayed pinned back against her head.

(21:12:23) Charlie Byrd doesn't take the offered arm, the older chipmunk answering with, "Just fine, Flip, just fine." Settling his cane firmly before him, his paws both hold onto the ornately carved top as he watches the goings on, though he glances back toward the young lapine female as she joins them. Expression faintly sympathetic, he leans in to whisper to his nephew.

(21:12:49) Narsuun looked up when Rexington appeared, and sighed. He would remain ready, just in case the crowd became rowdy, but he wasn't looking forward to the ordeal. A part of him was pleased that the issue was finally being resolved.

(21:14:30) Anastacia would make a point to meet Hagar's eyes once and once was all she needed. In that single glance she conveyed a whirlwind of emotions, the first one being anxiety for his well being. Brandings were no joke. Eyes flicker up to Rexington and his smug features before she crossed her arms and cocked her hip. The femme very much so wished, she had ears she could roll flat against her head.

(21:15:30) Twila Elsey clutched Cari's paw a little tighter, as tight as her wee paw could manage as she began to realise just what sort of punishment the furres had gathered for. She edged a half-step behind the femme like a fearful kit, shaking a little as she whispered to the femme.

(21:16:01) Rexington watches down from the stables' balcony at the wolf. Some solders opened the door before him so that he could enter. "There is always a thirst for the retribution, foreigner. Come on up and we will let the show begin!" The Knight almost seemed as if he were some sort of medieval game show host. Once the wolf went inside, he sent his attention back to the crowd. "Do any of you object to the branding of Hagar Darkwind, foreign assassin of nobles?" He leaned over, paw at his ears as he mockingly waited. - As an OOC note, I apologize if I am unable to reply to all of you! If your post requires a direct response from Rex, I would be very happy if you also whispered it to me so I do not overlook your post on accident. -

(21:16:23) Caridad would remain in the back, but her white, large scaly form was kind of hard ro miss. One of her arms was crossed uncomfortably over her stomach, and the other still held Twila's paw. She couldn't help but think the vixen was going to need some moral support after this. She does bend over, getting down on one knee, so she can whisper in response to the little femme.

(21:16:59) Phillip Byrd swallowed at the words and smiled, nodding to his Uncle. "Of course, Uncle Charlie. I'll have the room warmed up before you get there. So what did he do? What's going on? There's a ...oh he's talking." At the request for objections he said in a voice likely lost in the crowd, "I'd object to anyone being maimed. But what do I know?"

(21:17:55) Tamarine Gabaldi felt slightly at ease as Hagar seemed to take the whole ordeal as a joke. Her tense expression softened slightly. Part of her still wanted to conk him for that, but at least it lightened the mood. Still, contempt was not lessening, and the whole thing was still making her queasy. Then the knight asked the magic question. The innocent girl in her wanted to blurt out a thousand objections, most of with had witty retorts strapped to them like jagged rocks. But she held her tongue the moment she opened her mouth, simply continuing to stare in contempt, standing close to the elder, she blinked as she heard Phillip speak. Her brain instantly remembered when she was locked up for even sticking her nose in something, so with a quick and nimble hand, she moved to pinch and tug his ear as to tug his attention away and say ' bad boy'.

(21:19:10) Narsuun shot a glance at Phillip in an attempt to warn him off speaking too loudly. He couldn't help but glance at the ground, so that he could roll his eyes without anyone (hopefully) noticing. Just get on with it, for Primes' sake.
(21:19:20) Silver Sapphira makes a quiet point of seeming bored and uninterested in the scene, leaning against Jay while she observes anything that's not Hagar or Rex. She doesn't respond to the query of whether she has an objection or not, keeping quiet.

(21:19:51) Hagar Darkwind would walk into the open doors to face what the punishment meant for him. His ears almost seemed to drown out the flurry of people about him. But he stood tall. He would not let fear overtake him at this moment. He hoped to convey a look of fearlessness, his face stoic and stoney. "I am ready Ser." Was all he would say as he walked up to join Rex.

(21:21:55) Anastacia's face twists into a frown and her paws tremble against her arms. Anya's lip curl into into a soft frown and her eyes stick glued to Rex as Hagar moved inside to get this branding done. Occasionally her eyes flicker ofver the crowd and their faces.

(21:22:45) Farin stepped forward and rested a paw on the smaller rabbit's shoulder, his face set into a mild frown. He kept his silence at the knight's request for objections.

(21:24:40) Charlie Byrd gives his nephew's shin a smack with his cane at his chattering as the red headed lapine pulls at the boy's ears, and he'd earn a very rare frown from the elder for his antics. Returning to his settled in position, he waits quietly, eyes trailing around the assembled furres.

(21:25:58) Phillip Byrd winced and hissed, "Owowow.." Then he was kicked in the shins, a double whammy. "Owwww!" He shut up pretty quick. "Why are you hurting me? Uncle Charlie too! He asked, I didn't just say it, he asked!" He smacked the lapine's paw away from his ear and huffed, standing up straight, jaw working as he ground his teeth.

(21:28:42) Rexington settled back, thankfully not hearing Phillip's 'objection'. He clapped his broad paws together as Hagar came up top with him, turning to the wolf he'd grab his shoulder if not stopped and give him a light shake. "Glad to hear it. He says he's ready, folks!" Rex called cheerily. Not even an arrow to his crotch could suck all the happiness violence causes him away. A paw motioned to two soldiers in the stables who brought forth the brand aswell as a large 'lantern' of sorts, a portable way to heat it.

(21:30:19) Anastacia flinched at the paw, then relaxed. She was far too tense or perhaps not tense enough. Either way, she eyes the male with a quick turn of her head and looks as though she appreciates the comfort. Jaw set she gives one glance over to that lantern, her breathing growing irregular and a knot boiling in the pit of her stomach. The femme looks as though she may be ill.

(21:32:28) Vilemaw stood toward the back of the crowd, monitoring them closely with his piercing eyes. The officer was on edge with this many people gathered about as brandings often gave common furres reason to get rowdy. He keeps an idle paw on his sword much like Narsuun, motioning with his head to the few soldiers standing guard around the stables to keep their eyes peeled.

(21:32:44) Hagar Darkwind would not share in Rex's excite. He could not even bring himself to give a witty remark back. He was going to focus on what was happening soon. On blocking out the pain. He would not give him everything he wanted to see. His head would nod a curt nod to Rex as the man shook his shoulders. "You seem to be enjoying this. I must say, I can't wait for it to finally be over myself." He would say in an almost monotone voice.

(21:33:38) Tamarine Gabaldi chose not to explain to the young chip at the time. Not out of hatred - she found the silly young goofball adorable - but due to the ongoing situation with the person about to get a painful permanent hiney tattoo. As the guards readied the brand, she felt her own rather warped form of nausea come over her. It felt wrong. It could have been Hagar, or Charlie, or Phillip, or Narsuun up there and it wouldn't matter. It was her first time observing this sort of thing and at that moment, a startling realization came over her. This was what she was condemning the criminals she had turned in to...or worse. Fighting every temptation she had to play the hero and likely get herself stabbed in the face, she balled her fists up , staring daggers at Rex. Sure. No arrows. But mind arrows would do!

(21:34:52) Ana Drakfass just continued to stand there, arms crossed, and look completely and totally disapproving.

(21:37:09) Charlie Byrd gives a slight sniff at the boy's response, shaking his head with another frown before glancing briefly toward the young lady beside them. He reaches out to give her arm a gentle pat. Rounded ears tipping backward, his attention returns to the males and the branding to take place.
(21:38:41) Phillip Byrd fell silent once all the abuse stopped. He was seriously abused, Flip's life was terribly hard. He frowned as he watched the proceedings, murmuring to Charlie, "Have you ever seen something like this before, Uncle Charlie? Is it supposed to be justice or a circus act?" He'd never even gone to a public execution, he honestly didn't know, but the whole thing seemed barbaric.

(21:39:13) Narsuun glances about the gathering, holding back a chuckle at poor Flip's antics. His gaze rests for a moment upon Ana, before he forces himself to look up at Rex and Hagar. Since the crowd seemed relatively calm, he took his arm off his sword, and crossed it with the other over his chest.

(21:39:35) One Eye Jay glanced over his shoulder and turns right around, to regard Vilemaw before protectively putting an arm around Silver...

(21:49:22) Rexington had to monologue like a true villain first. The soldiers that brought the brand and lantern took a step back as Rex addressed the crowd again. "People of Kasuria! This man stands accused of poisoning and near killing a Great Noble and Knight, myself." he let that fall, pausing for effect. "The laws of this land and His Majesty Callistin grant me charge to execute him here and now for his crimes! But!" Rex is grinning again, letting his eyes sweep over each and every furre in the crowd. "I am a merciful man and in light of the Primes I lowered his sentence." The Knight nodded, as if agreeing with them. As if they agreed with him. "However... let this be a warning to each and every citizen of this great and glorious country! Actions have consequences! And I will not always be so merciful! I would hate to see any of you up here, truly it pains me." he said with a paw over his heart.

(21:50:49) Tamarine Gabaldi felt her body relax a little as the elder pat her on the shoulder, giving him a sideways, distressed looking glance before staring daggers back at her new acceptable target of hatred. If this was really the man she had been told about, she was certainly unhappy to learn it was all true. She took a tentative step forth, seemingly about to interrupt it all...but no. She took a step forward and tilted her head, seemingly attempting to get a very, very good look at what was going on. After Gul Du- I mean Rex finished his I'm-a-good-guy speech, she bit down on her lower lip. Since that was the second heavy bite in the day, it elicited a drop of blood, but she held it in. She kept her eyes on it - not him - but the brand. She wanted to see it all.

(21:53:19) Anastacia's eyes now remove themselves from the monologue the male was giving, that queasy turn of her stomach intensified. She rocked a little from heel to toe and takes a small breath in an attempt to steel herself.

(21:54:06) Hagar Darkwind would listen to the "good" Ser Knight as he made his grand announcement. It was almost to good he thought. His eyes glanced around at the guards and then the crowd. A few times, he almost couldn't hold back a mocking smile. His lips would twitch abruptly as the man kept talking himself up. It was going to be a good show. Awful, dark, and he is trying to set himself up the hero. He wouldn't flinch, or shudder, even with the hour almost apon him. He told himself he wouldn't even scream.

(21:55:23) Mikhael Solberg drummed his fingers against his arms through Rex's speech, but it was Hagar's careful bravado that prompted him to roll his eyes. He shook his head and exhaled, antsy and eager for them to get on with it so the crowd could disperse.

(21:56:53) Charlie Byrd murmurs for his nephew's benefit, "No, I was never permitted to attend such a thing, Flip, and I had hoped you would not have the chance either." That said, he reaches out when the lapine lass steps forward, though does not move to grab her when she halts again. Those bright blue eyes keep a wary eye on both of his charges for the evening, however, the elderly chipmunk not wanting to see anyone else joining the branding queue.

(21:59:18) Phillip Byrd kept his mouth shut after that. He didn't know a lot about the world, but he knew enough that this was both over his head and disgusting. A public branding would be bad enough, but all this banding about and show-boating made it worse. He stepped around to stand at Tamarine's side and leaned over to murmur to her. "Please, Uncle Charlie's leg hurts more as the evening chills. Come back with me and help me help him." It wasn't technically a lie, but he had the feeling the girl was more likely to start trouble than him.

(21:59:29) Silver Sapphira responds to Jay's protectiveness with a raised brow, a brief glance over her shoulder to Vilemaw, and then back to observing anything that's not Rex or Hagar again with that uninterested look.

(22:02:01) Vilemaw's eyes darted between Jay and Silver, mostly because they were staring at him. He tried his best to shoot them a stern lipped frown as Tam catches his attention when she moves forward. A soldier closer to them raises a paw to her as if she planned to get closer, but she keeps herself back and so Vile relaxes.

(22:06:57) Narsuun huffed gently, and tapped his footpaw twice, irritably. Of course he needed to make a speech. Though he played off his impatience as annoyance at the movement in the crowd, glancing from person to person.

(22:10:35) Rexington looks satisfied, even if the crowd is largely silent. It is almost as if he is hoping someone does indeed join the branding queue. That glinting gleam in his eyes almost wills it. He turns sharply back to Hagar, a paw motioning for the two soldiers uptop to come forward, grabbing the wolf to hold him still if not stopped. Rex turned the tip of the brand toward the crowd and in the lamplight they can see it is a Haala Sunburst with a C in the middle. "In the name of His Majesty, King Callistin, first of his name and ruler of the realm!"

(22:12:18) Tamarine Gabaldi peered back at the elder chipmunk, nodding to him reassuringly as she stood her ground, relaxing her posture, though she crossed her arms over her chest defensively. She knew Hagar was going to act full of bravado. Since the beginning he'd been trying to turn this whole situation around. He hardly needed to. She noted the guard, familiar Vilemaw's uneasiness. She stood her ground, not wanting to make anyone concern themselves. She still had her mind set on only one thing. She wanted to watch the wolf get branded. She wanted to see what contempt and torture was like. And she did not expect to like it. Even as Rex raised it high and announced in who's name it was all being done, she didn't make a sound. Just stared, and seethed.

(22:13:07) Narsuun performed the obligatory salute and waited for the sizzling.

(22:14:16) Anastacia gives a little utterance of "All hail." As it was the king's name said and with so many guards here, it would be treason not to say it.

(22:15:18) Charlie Byrd relaxes just a fraction as the two younger furres stand together, and his gaze shifts from them toward the barn again as the knight speaks once more. Mumbling out something or other, the elderly male resettles his paws on his cane, expression solemn.

(22:15:33) One Eye Jay blurts out a hail, stomping a paw in the dirt and going erect just like the other guards would do, infact its uncannily identical.

(22:16:58) Athos Philokales quietly mumbles, joining in on the hailing, just enough to get by. Callistin was not his King, and his Emperor was far distant.

(22:18:27) Phillip Byrd gave a measured and practiced hail to the king's name, having grown up in the city it wasn't something he was unwilling to do. Particularly since his mother would have skinned his hide for disrespecting the king. Out here everything was different though, or at least he was opening his eyes for the first time.

(22:20:05) Vilemaw's fisted paw thuds against his chest as he too stamps a boot to the dirt. "All Hail King Callistan! Long live the King!" he bellowed, eyeing those around him to make sure they were following suit.

(22:20:51) Hagar Darkwind would feel the hands start to touch upon his shoulders and the fire came back to him. He would not let them treat him like a common criminal. He would harshly shrug off the hand, stepping forward whilst giving the guards a proper stare down. He almost dared them to do it again. He would stand on his own volition. He would step forward and look to Rex, and then the brand. He felt his confidence waver for a moment. But he held his ground and gave Rex a smirk. "In the name of your king." He would say and almost put a little bit of flourish on the your. He was not his king.

(22:21:06) Mikhael Solberg raised his voice to just above his usual speaking voice to hail the king, as befit an agent of that very king. He tried not to look at Ana beside him as he did so, instead keeping his attention on the pinned prisoner.

(22:21:57) Silver Sapphira mumbles something, absently joining in with the crowd.

(22:23:06) Anastacia's frown was quite clear when Hagar insisted on an antagonist approach to hailing his majesty. She clenches her arms so hard at this point that there would likely be bruises later. Still her eyes remain on the horror about to unfold.

(22:25:01) Rexington's brow rose, almost impressed with the wolf's spirit. He fights the urge to yell 'I can't hear you?!' at the crowd as if this was some sort of sporting event and they were his wellbehaved cheerleaders. Instead, he grins fiercely at Hagar. "Ah, you've spirit in you yet. I will enjoy burning it out of you." he murmured cruelly, paw turning the brand to the large lantern of sorts to begin heating it. The soldiers back off from them. "Any last words before the consequences of your foolish foreign actions come stinging across your neck?" the Knight asks rather pointedly. He wasn't making an effort for the crowd to hear him now.

(22:25:26) Athos Philokales let out a low mrowl, ears folding back as he heard Hagar's statement. You may be foreign, but maintaining the illusion of respecting the local tyrant was an important survival tactic. He might just make it worse for himself.

(22:26:40) Caridad would nod as Athos approached, before gesturing with her head to Twila, who was hiding behind Cari's leg and trying not to look at what was happening. She'd stay quiet, though. Athos would probably recognize the restrained look on her face.

(22:29:28) Narsuun joined in the hailing as loudly as was required, then let his salute drop. He kept his eyes on Hagar, though closed them briefly in frustration when he began to swagger. Oh well.

(22:31:51) Hagar Darkwind would smile a toothy smile at Rex. It seemed that he actually took note of the man's fire for once. It was almost a shame he hadn't taken note before when Hagar had punched him in the face. He would kneel before him on one knee, back held straight. He tried to make himself look as knightly as possible. To show him that he would not take away his spirit this night. "We have a saying. Pain is fleeting. Only death is forever. I shall not be meeting with Lord Death this day." He would say his fire carrying his words boldly. "The very seas could not quench my fire, Ser." And with that, his chin would set itself ridgid. And he waited.

(22:32:14) Tamarine Gabaldi almost lost it again, but the clenching of her fist was helping. Not helping her wounded paw however, as it opened the wound once more and soaked the bandages. The stinging was helping her keep in place, but no one likes pain so she was soon releasing her grip. She could not help but squeak, noticing the moment was getting closer. Watched as the Knight made a sadistic display out of the whole ordeal, knowing very well it was going to be unpleasant in general. She peered briefly at the other people before glancing at the brand. No one wanted to be there. It sank in exactly how these things worked. The poor lapine finally was getting it.

(22:36:02) Anastacia digs her nails into her arm as Hagar insists on provoking the knight. At this point her jaw is tense and her form trembles violently.

(22:37:22) Farin kept his paw on Anastacia's shoulder as she trembled, murmuring something into her floppy ear with a terse smile. He squeezed her shoulder gently and looked back up at the knight and his victim.

(22:37:52) Rexington looked as if every word Hagar said made the prospect of hurting him seem more and more appealing...
as if it wasn't the best thing to happen to the manx all month. One more quick glance to the crowd and the manx pulled the brand from the flames, "You will wish for your Lord of Death and be glad my King was not here to punish your himself... you'd meet that Lord." he whispered. With a flex of his paw the lifts the brand up. First pausing at his arm, his shoulder... the brand was still going up. The lippy wolf has only made things worse for himself as he lines the metal up with Hagar's neck. If not stopped, he'd press it against the male's throat. The sound of burning flesh came first, a sharp hiss in the night. The smell would come second, pungent and disgusting.

(22:39:28) Phillip Byrd's face was set in a stoic expression. For the first thirty seconds he just looked disgusted and offended. Then he turned to his left, and woe to any who were there, because he literally tossed his cookies onto whatever was nearby. The boy hurled and wretched, without a hint of shame. That was disgusting. It smelled like bacon and shame.

(22:40:38) Athos Philokales's expression darkened at the growing sound and smell, setting his hand on nearby Twila's shoulder, hoping to strengthen her as she did her best not to see the branding. Another hand went up to touch Cari's elbow, though he made sure not to let it linger.

(22:41:20) Twila Elsey made the mistake of looking up to ask Caridad if it was done just as the brand pressed against the wolf's neck. Her mouth fell open a little as the sizzle and odor of burning flesh hit her. With a soft squeak of horror, she froze, tears welling up in her eyes before she managed to again hid her face in Cari's side, shaking dreadfully.

(22:42:05) Tamarine Gabaldi took her moment to savor it. Not in delight. But in disgust. Eyes shut as she saw him press the brand against the victim's neck, her tiny pink nose twitching at it, sniffing to take in the smell of burning flesh, her long ears at full peak as she took in the sounds of crackling and popping skin, the burning and the ungodly sounds. It was horrible. She finally could not take anymore of it. After gaining what was likely to be enough of an earful , eyeful and nosefull to scar her for nice long time, she whined loudly, turning around and attempting to ease the elder aside slightly so that she could double over and - rather unpleasantly so - throw up rather furiously on the ground. Nothing makes a hot branding any more nauseating then being nervous AND being able to hear it at ultra-high volume.

(22:43:54) Mikhael Solberg narrowed his eyes as the deed was done, finally dropping his eyes with a single, curt nod. He turned to leave, nudging the chinchilla beside him as he went.

(22:44:43) Charlie Byrd is looking a bit peaked himself, though as both his nephew and his new 'apprentice' both decide to throw up all over the ground around him, the elder heaves a sigh and attempts not to breath too deeply after that. Scent of burning flesh and stomach bile floating through that area of the barnyard, the older male reaches out to give both of the younger's gentle pats and soothing words.


(22:45:09) Caridad would try to gently shush Twila, as she starts to speak up - and then the noise happens, and the little vixen squeaks. Cari's delicate nose wrinkles at the smell, her ears lying back against her skull. She'd gently try to 'ssshhh' Twila, placing a paw on her shoulder and getting down on one knee again so she could pull the vixen close. Grr.

(22:45:38) Hagar Darkwind would await his punishment at this point. He would not even glance at the knight as he toyed with him. He wouldn't give him the pleasure of seeing him falter. He would see the movement and bite down, catching his lip in the process. The searing pain was unimaginable. Hagar would growl a moment despite himself. The seconds were turned to hours as it seemed in his mind to drag on. He would smell the horrid odor of his burning fur, mixed with the sickening sweet scent of burning flash. Tears would begin to drop from his eyes as the smell and pain got to him. His lips would part and blood from his wounded lip would poor forth down his chin. And what came out started as a low bellow and quickly evolved into a moan of dark and excruciating pain. His legs would quiver as his paws dug into them. His eyes would begin to see the white spots as shock began to set in. The voices and retching seemed so far away.

(22:46:01) Vilemaw does not divert his eyes. He has been ordered not to, and orders were orders. The lion is able to keep his cookies in his stomach having seen far worse things in life. When the deed is done he searches the crowd again, quick to make sure no one was ready to get violent.

(22:49:28) Anastacia was soothed only momentarily by the whisper though when the branding actually happening she can only handle so much of it. The hiss of flesh sizzling along with Hagar's near death scream is too much for a stomach that was already ill at ease to begin with. She stiffens and looks as though she may up-heave her lunch. What instead happens is she sways as though she may faint. Instead she adverts her eyes and holds her hand flush against her stomach doing her best to keep her face guarded and neutral.

(22:50:18) Ana Drakfass doesn't look away, but her frown only deepens and her eye narrows gently. Those big ears stay pinned back. She would see Anastacia, though, and keep on eye on her. The least she could do was actually catch the femme if she faints.

(22:50:57) Narsuun keeps his eyes mostly on the event. For the most part, he was able to ignore the horrified retching in the crowd, but catching Anya swaying out of the corner of his eye, he very nearly stepped toward her. Instead, however, he dragged his eyes back to Rex and Hagar, playing his part.

(22:51:35) Farin's large paw remained firm upon Ana's shoulder for support. He refused to leave too quickly lest one of the soldiers view it as disorderly conduct. He couldn't afford to join the wolf on the stage. Again, he dropped his voice to whisper to Ana. The herbivores had to stick together.

(22:55:38) Rexington kept his jaw tensed and his grin wide, clenching his teeth. His ears fell back as he wasn't completely heartless, but other than that he appeared to enjoy this little moment. He pulled the brand away, placing the tip back in the fire to cook off the remaining bits of fur and flesh that emitted further little hisses and pops into the flames. Taking a breath, he turns to address the largely upchucking crowd. "Once more a lesson in these trying times."

(22:57:09) Athos Philokales's face darkened at the mention of a 'lesson', having not once looked away from the display. He had seen.... worse things, though the stench of burning flesh was, as always, an unpleasant one.

(22:57:36) Tamarine Gabaldi finally lifted her head up, wiping her lips as she struggled to regain her composure. Coughing a little bit, she stifled a burp before sniffling heavily. Big mistake. Everything smells like puke. Resisting the urge to begin an infinite loop of vomit that would soon fill the kingdom and destroy all civilization as they knew it, she held her breath and stepped away, peering over at Phillip with some concern. Last thing she wanted was the kid to have to see that either. It disgusted a woman who's livelihood was skinning animals.

(22:57:51) Phillip Byrd looked towards Rexington with unmasked disgust for the man in his eyes. He spoke, pointing vaguely, words angry. No one knew what they were, they were lost in the next paroxysm of vomiting, and he was scurrying away from the scene holding his stomach and trying to fish a kerchief from his pocket.

(23:03:03) Anastacia swallows hard and finally allows her eyes to drop from the scene. She keeps them firmly closed, knowing this image would haunt her dreams. A slow, near pained nod follows Farin's whisper draws a short breath from the lop who finally releases her upper arms. Those would be bruised up something awful in a bit. Her hand instead raises to cup over her mouth and nose to try and block some more of the scent. For a fleeting moment her eyes search out Leander and convey a veiled message. One he's probably seen before.

(23:04:59) Charlie Byrd verrrry carefully hobbles a little away from the puddles of vomit to either side of him, the elderly chipmunk's motions less spry than usual as he watches his nephew scuttle off. Frowning after the boy, he glances toward the young lapine female, and reaches out to offer up a handkerchief which smells very lightly of bay rum cologne. Murmuring to her briefly, he waits for a little longer.

(23:05:38) Hagar Darkwind would feel the relief as the brand left his face. His exclamation of pain ending slowly as his eyes begin to lower themselves. His whole body felt rather wispy, his head swimming. He tried to remember where he was at the moment, shock washing it away. But he heard Rex's voice and it pulled him back from the brink a moment. He would rise, stumbling, to look up the crowd. He must have looked a sight, blood running down his face and the smoldering fur in the night as it plucked out. His fire came back to him a moment. He did not pass out. He was not held. He would sumble infront of Rex and turn his back to the crowd. His eyes would suddenly be fierce like the sun, almost yet another challenge. He would then raise his head and let loose a blood chilling howl. In that moment it spoke of victory, of anger, of bravery, and of things to come. The kind of wolf howl that seemed to echo unchallenged across the whole village. His feet would give way as the shock finally took its toll. [c]
(23:07:58) Hagar Darkwind's footing was removed from him by his own body. He would fall backward into the embrace of the air, dropping like a rock onto his back. It was not a large fall, but one that he would feel in the morning. He loosed a gasp as the wind was sucked from him. And then like that, it was lights out. But his fierce smile still remained even in his sleep. Almost as if to answer his promise not to let Rex steal his fire.

(23:10:22) Tamarine Gabaldi sniffs heavily once more as Charlie offers her the handkerchief. Baby rum cologne was better then cabbage soup! She shoved it up against her snout, inhaling deeply and murmuring a thank you before she simply turned and moved to job - no - rush towards the tavern. She had no intention of staying around the scene and parting in anymore visible acts of injustice and torture combined with people in titanic amounts of agony whilst their friends and acquaintances throw up and wobble. No. She wanted to get away from it all before she did something she would likely regret or end up in a worse state herself, already on the verge of a rather nasty panic attack which she planned on averting!

(23:10:36) Farin drew back gently on Ana's shoulder. "We should get back," he said quietly. "I don't want to leave the kits alone any longer than we have to." It absolutely wasn't because the accumulated stench was getting to the herbivore.

(23:10:56) Narsuun caught Anya's look and returned a quick glance of his own. But for now, he had his role to play. He stepped forward and turned toward the crowd. "The King's justice has been done. Go back to your homes."

(23:12:14) Twila Elsey took Narsuun's word to heart, peeling herself off of Caridad and sprinting off.

(23:12:36) Athos Philokales flicked his gaze towards the sprinting Twila, walking after her with a sigh.

(23:12:45) Rexington watched Hagar closely now that he was coming to. His brows came down as the wolf stood and then howled and Rex looked as if he wants to gut the male from groin to throat then and there. The Knight takes a step forward just as Hagar falls back and his eyes follow the descent of the branded male until he thudded to the earth. His gaze is grabbed by Leander as he begins shooing the crowd away, and he doesn't object.

(23:13:40) Vilemaw steps aside, and at Ser Leander's order begins waving his paws lightly away from the scene. He can't help but look between the various furres at the wolf on the ground, that howl had caused his hears to press into his raggedy mane.

(23:13:53) Mikhael Solberg turned back only when Hagar howled, shivering. He frowned at the rebellious note in the sound until the wolf fell -- but, as the manx knight didn't look particularly concerned with it, neither did he. He continued his calm departure after Leander's dismissal. "Are you coming?" he asked the chinchilla around the rock.

(23:15:07) Charlie Byrd hobbles his way back toward the tavern quietly, looking about ten years older after that spectacle.

(23:15:51) Caridad would frown as well, as the vixen ran off, and move to follow after her. She had reassuring to do!

(23:15:53) Anastacia's final glance at Hagar was a short one his howl ringing in her ears, the next words Nar speaks drawing her eye once more. They would need to speak later. Lastly, she would look over at Rex quickly dropping her gaze."I hope, they take him to an infirm, burns can rot quickly." If allowed she would take hold of Farin's arm quickly if only so she could pretend to walk away quickly. When they were far enough away she was going to vomit.

(23:16:37) Ana Drakfass would shrug her shoulders and say, "I suppose." In a quiet voice.

(23:18:27) [#] Many of the gathered furres departed the moment the knight allowed them. A coyote hurried back to the bath house. A burly bear with a mug in his paw escorted an ill-looking squirrel back towards the tavern.

(23:19:50) Vilemaw drew in a steadying breath as the crowd drew out. The lion grunted, head nodding to two soldiers on standby who would walk over to Hagar if not stopped and pick him up roughly under the arms. He drew closer to Ser Leander, murmuring, "The infirm, Ser?" Knowing that Rex would not give an open blessing to it. Nathaniel, the physicker from the Infirm is naturally in the crowd, but is reluctant to draw any closer for fear of the soldiers.

(23:21:37) Narsuun caught Vilemaw's approach and nodded gently. He replied quietly. "Yes, soldier." He glanced around at the thinning crowd, letting out a long sigh. "Stupid bloody thing to do, being so defiant. Let's get him seen to."

(23:23:57) Rexington kneeled down to watch the proceedings with unhidden glee. Only later, when the excitement of the night died down would he have time to be truly angry about the wolf's spirit. As most of the crowd dispersed, Rex gave a chuckle. "A truly merciful move on my part, Ser Leander." he called, shooting his fellow Knight a narrow-eyed look. "It appears the crowd agreed, not killing him was a grand idea." thinly veiled sarcasm in his voice.

(23:24:02) Hagar Darkwind would be picked up by the men, knocked out from shock. He would be under for at least the next half hour. And more likely completely unaware of where it was he found himself. But at the moment he was at peace, taken away from the pain by the gentle arms of his body.

(23:29:31) Vilemaw once more nodded to the Knight, "Yes Ser." and motioned to his men to follow him, taking the unconscious Hagar to the infirm and walking after Nathaniel.

(23:31:30) Narsuun looked up at Ser Rexington, and nodded gravely. "Very merciful, my Lord. It could have been a lot worse for the fellow. Thank you for showing such clemency." He saluted again, and then turned to leave.

(23:33:34) Rexington stood back up, calling out to the cat as he moved to walk away, "Thank you for handling the investigation while I was ill... had it not been for that, I would not have done this favor to you." There was a warning in the manx's voice, and it was moderately concering that Hagar's life was spared only as a pawn in Rex's little games of 'thank you'.

(23:35:01) Narsuun's ears flicked, he paused and looked back. "Duely noted, Ser Rexington. I will not make a habit of requesting favors." With that, he continued away, having not yet decided where to go.

(23:36:43) Rexington did not stop him or even bellow out his way this time. He handed off the brand and lantern to his men to bring back to the Blockade and barked an order to those still on ground level to begin 'cleaning' up all the vomit. Serves them right, not forcing everyone to watch.