The Battle At Sea
The Harbinger sailed at a steady pace as the Sun settled into the early hours of the evening, all of the new bodies that had been allowed onboard made a more obvious appearance as there would be quite a bit more of them on the top deck than usual while the crew had been given a more time to relax after the battle that occured just barely over a week from this day. The Captain himself was enjoying a pleasant moment in his quarters, presumably with his wife sitting on the patch of grass in their quarters, looking out the window to enjoy the darkening the sky together, Sofey being the ever vigilant one to express her power, was at the helm directing the ship and making those 'free-loading' folk do some duties such as swabbing the deck to 'pay' for their passage no doubt, Reman patrolling the decks as per his usual rounds and Ein meditating in the greenhouse on the main deck.
Raine Liot was settled in the Quarters shared with his Sister and a good Friend. Fingers grasped the rim of the brass goblet, hooked slightly to grasp while grinning to oneself. It was a peaceful time through the ship, so there was no need to wander or add too much detail. Dressed in a dark pair of slacks and a blue tunic, hair into a curious fauxhawk of sorts as if to deny the silvery grey that was there.
Rishana was in that same cabin, sipping on a glass of fine red, chatting with Raine, and just enjoying the relative solitude. Her reception had been better than expected on The Harbinger, and now it was time to enjoy!
Yaelth was swabbing the deck. She was not free folk being paid for the work but sure as hell believed that hard work made for less folks in danger of her temper. Very real danger of her temper. She'd been mulling some things over since the last port and was suffering from a mean bit of Napolian syndrome. "I should have gut him." She chirps. "I should have gut him real good." The mop slops back and forth at this point.
Freya the ninetails Was leaning on a rail along the upper deck of the ship huffing a bit of the cold into a small fog between her hands. Freyas furr glowing slightly useing her magics to keep herself warm for the time being. the sound of the crashing waves on the ship side being a pleasing music to her ears at the moment.
Nocturnal Aymen's paw pressed into Nyks as they held paws. She cuddled into his side, enjoying the view, the soft grass under their feet.. the whole moment of it all. Briefly the woman was caught up on what had happened, and why.. and how.. There was no way she could hide the immense feeling of proud she had for the man at her side. Tails flickered and swayed, curling in around their frames as muzzle moved to nestle against his cheek.. content in the moment.
The Faithful was night invisible in the darkening evening with it's running lamps extinguished. A dark silhouette against the black sky, at least until the ship was at The Harbinger's rear. Suddenly lamps lit the deck and the ship popped in to clearly visible view like a phantom from the dark and, just after, the Balestra Family Heraldry flag flew high; raised alongside the Lima Signalizing flag that demanded the vessel they were trailing come to a stop. The Faithful with it's gold trimmings and high flags seemed to be fitted with copper plating that just barely caugt the lamps reflections as well as a miriade of ropes down it's sides. At the helm was a familiar knight to some, and soon to be antagonist to others. Regal posture even at the helm; straight back, high shoulders, and proud chest as he locked the wheel in place. "Liam, to be safe let's prepare for a warm welcome. Ready the mortars! Windthor, let the crew know we're running on alert. Ingrid, I have a feeling they wont so easily acquiesce to our demands. Naval battle is your show, so you're up" commands echoed out over and below deck through the complex copper piping system as he stepped away from the wheel to grab his blades.
Kodachrome kept under deck making sure things would be working in correct order. Sure, she ran to the little windows she'd gotten of sorts, listening through tubes to hear what was going on. She just would keep under deck, keeping things working. Pressure gagues full, so they could be as sharp and as fast as needed.
Liam Laca was adjusting his scarf a little. It had been a while since he'd been seen in Balestra company. Not for a lack of interest mind you. No it had more to do with tying some loose ends in his own life down finally. Getting squared away some family matters, Liam was finally able to suit up and get ready to actually take his post back up with Balestra. He jimmed the clasp on his scarf a bit and then clipping on his gear. He checked the string of his crossbow and then set to work doing a few positions with his staff. Making sure he had a good handle on the placement of his hands and so that it delivered a good hit when it landed. When that was all said and done he finally made his way top-side. Coming up next to Zelanze he sighed and looked out at the water. The dying sun made his skin crawl. Not that he was afraid, but, it meant the prey they were hunting was about to be circled in on. Liam Laca heard the command and did exactly as was asked, flitting back and forth between the cannons and prepping them as needed. He wasn't about to miss a beat on this.
Windthor Pryas had been on deck at the bowsprit of the ship, though he was low. Even in the little light that was around, the hybird was nearly stark white, and even the reflection of the moon would cast a spotlight onto him. This kind of thing spoke to his instincts as a predator, stalking prey, watching its every move. However, as the lights came on and the flags raised, he turned and sprinted back towards the middle. "Way ahead of you!" he called back to Zel, going belowdecks, shouting for everyone on board. "ALL HANDS ON ALERT!" His voice, usually a tenor, would carry throughout the rooms, and he'd call a good three times before popping back onto the deck.
Ingrid Brandt would already have her gunners ready, of course. Around two dozen would be needed to aim the port guns, of which there are ten, two to each gun with a petty officer strategically placed every few guns as a captain of that section. They're all nine-pounders like The Harbinger's, and all on carriages, loaded with grapeshot. There are two mortars forward, but despite being able to turn a full 360 degrees, the rocking of the waves and the closer distance made them highly inaccurate. She had planned, should worse come to worse, to sweep their deck with grape. Although anyone with sense could easily see the 5 canons on the weatherdeck aimed high, and the opened gunports of the gun deck. She was the only marksman, and she wishes she'd hired some marines, but... the guns seem like enough. She's rolled an extra carriage onto the rear deck where the helmsman is, and is taking cover behind that, going so far as to wear an old conquistador-style helm, hastily painted black to not give her position away. She waits with her single shot rifle, keen on not firing at all, but ertainly not firing or giving the guns the order to fire until she is given that order herself.
The first to spot the sudden appearance of the ship was no doubt Reman during his patrols, turning his head to observe several of the unfortunate folk that caught the eye of the first mate and were deemed worthy enough to do some minor manual tasks alongside their very cheerful otter sharpshooter, then glancing out to the darkening waters surrounding the ship just the lights were turned on to full blaze to reveal their pursuer, running to inform the commanding officer on the deck rather quickly before the crowd of refugees began to converge against the railings, eager to take a look at what had just appeared behind them but none of them were as privy to the knowledge of what a signal flag meant nor were they close enough to make out the house which the ship belonged to with the fading lights. But there was a clutter of them. Nykita had not been aware of the new ship as he was rather focused on the pleasant moment with his wife, until he happened to turn in her direction and see the glow of another ship's lights behind them, "Hm?" They were close to Eileadora, was this an escort? It was impossible for him to see the identity of the ship clearly from the side windows of his quarters but there was one thing that made him rise quickly, snatching his wide-brimmed hat from a hook at the doorway, "Sorry love, appears we have some interesting company." Readied cannons were a hard sight to forget! Yet when he emerged from his cabin, he was now scowling but smirking because... who was it that was daring enough to try to engage them in combat this close to Eileadora?
Sofey Eristis was at the Helm of the Harbinger, a place she would love to always be, if the Captain Aymen would just allow it! This Pirate Captain was smoking one of her favored rolled cigarettes, complete with various herbs and intoxicating substances. A relaxed scowl was on her face, brought on by the happiness provided by her favored smokes! "Mind the fuckin' boom, ye landlubbers! Ye stealin' me wind! Ain't long'en ye be sippin' wine'en samplin' fine sands'uh Eileadora! So don't steal me kiss'uh the Sea Goddess! She'uh fine lover," she yelled from her perch down at the forced Cabin-Boys down below. A look was made to Reman as he came up to the Helmsman. "The fuck ye wan'..?" she asked him, lowering her gaze. She was happy, don't mess with her... A ship behind them?! Sofey turned to look at The Faithful. "CAPTAIN!!!!" she screamed at the top of her lungs, stomping harshly the wood beneath her feet, which was above Nykita's head "Ship astern! Hailin'es..." She had to focus on the hail.
Raine Liot knew nothing amiss at the moment, so laughed and clinked the bottle with Rishana. It was a very quiet evening. Nothing at all was admiss on the creaky innocent boat of the Harbinger, taking refugees and heading to a safe harbor according to Lady Suiyasha.
Rishana -Ignorance was bliss, especially when wine was involved! Mmm... wiiiiinnnee. Anyways, things were going swimmingly (pun intended), until that loud stomping was heard from above. Seeing as how Raine's cabin was so close to Nyk's, it was possible to hear the thump, yet not the hollering. Dark eyes raised toward the ceiling of the small room. "What's going on up there? Sounds like someone is coming through the deck."
Freya the ninetails offed a bit as the fox was pushed and pulled by the others now pressing to the rails of the deck to get a look at the ship heading close to them."Easy now easy to not want anyone going over board yes?" Freya pulled back from the crowds watching them crowd slowly form and then shouting in the back toward the cabin doors. Nykita slowly pulling from his door to up deck pulled her gaze as se moved to the middle of the ship."Captain shall I send out a flare over the water to light up the night?" Freya would call an wait for orders before doing anything. If told to do so the fox would charge a small flame in her palm and hurl it from the middle of the deck. the shoot would look like a shoot star flinging from the ship and arching in the sky before exploding in the air lighting the sky up in the magical flare. If told to delay her order snuff out the flame in her paw and do as told.
Nocturnal Aymen's ears gave a flickering swivel, up towards the decks above at the noises.. and her husbands haste. She rose, dusting off her skirts as if she hadn't a single care in the world before soft steps carried her to follow her husbands path. Oh so non-chalantly.. Tails curled and coiled, following the pace of her feet, being careful not to get under foot while trailing behind her all the same. Top adjusted, not exactly content in having her moment with her husband interrupted by such noises.. though a trite bit of concern finally.. after a moment.. crossed her face.
Zelanze Balestra would clasp Liam on the shoulder before he poofed away to handle the preparement of armaments. Paws fell to his hip, securing the two blades there before reaching out to lift and secure his shield to his back and finally grab a rifle of his own; a wheel lock that the knight had taken to being his favorite despite their reputation of being fragile and expensive to maintain. Ingrid was, of course, to be in command of the battle if it came to it but the knight gave the orders for what could be the calm before the storm; "Hold" said just loud enough for the deck to hear him. As the flare, presumably, went up he'd reach his arm out to shield his eyes for a moment, squinting just slightly. "They're just taking a look now, we can't fire until or unless they resist." it wouldn't be right to handle the situation any other way.
Liam Laca was as quick as lightning. He bolted from one cannon to the next. Navymen? Who needed them when Liam could be there in and reading everything in only seconds flat. Still when all was said and done he sat back and swallowed thickly. He'd never been in something like this before. He wasn't sure really still where to sit, but he had faith in Zelanze and Windthor. He had faith in Balestra. Seconds after he'd filled the last cannon his ear flicked and caught the sound of Zelanze asking them to hold. He jumped forward and blinked from below deck to next to his captain once more. "Yall thinking they might not give us no trouble?" Liam chuckled, knowing that obviously was not the case since they'd armed themselves to the teeth it seemed. "Might be kinda nice thinkin, them just coming quietly and us just working this shit out. Yall ever wonder why that never is? Aint a soul ever comes quietly do they." less of a question and more of a statement.
Windthor Pryas adjusted his vambraces as he watched Liam literally popping from one cannon to the next, though his eyes soon fell on the Harbinger, and he grimaced, rolling his shoulders. His wings stretched and flexed, the joints cracking not unlike the knuckles on his hands, which he was doing now. "Honestly," he said, stepping up to Liam's side, "is it bad that I almost want them to board us?" Probably, but not many could argue with the dog that punched everything. It did almost sound like a joke, too, though his face was blank and his ears had pinned back against his skull. These were the crew who had destroyed that ship, which felt like so long ago. "Well, one way or another... This is about to get moderately upleasant for everyone involved."
Yaelth blinks her eyes as the random snow. She was in a strange mood, distant and lost amongs all the chaos. Her eyes hardened though, any ship that was not their ship could not have been too good then again there was that proverb about womp womp something something appearances. This wasn't a time for that. The otter in her mood won't press to get a look at the ship but instead moves like wildfire down beneath the deck to grab her supplies. The femme was in no mood so this encounter was perfect.
Ingrid Brandt sees all the commotion occuring on the "enemy" deck, she doesn't really consider these people her enemy, which has often been the downfall of mercenaries. Not caring as much about the fight as their adversaries. But with all the feet trundling, and one in particular stomping, she'd realize just how wooden their weatherdeck and probably subsequent inner structure is, and it causes her to grin widely. "Minenwerferen! Flammenlösung kurz!" she barks, and the three person mortar crews load an interesting, more rounded stone looking round, and not nearly the same amount of powder as the cannons.. Well, they're mortars. In any case, assuming the ship is illuminated, she'd not really in any place to hide anymore, but overturned cannon carriage stil lmade for decent cover, topped by the helmet.
Nykita Aymen had to shove past a few bodies to get to the helm once he was on the main deck, hearing the call being made by Sofey even before he was out from his quarters, "When did they appear? This could be a nice trick that Manda would play on me..." He'd say with an amused tone, holding out a paw and expecting there to be a spyglass placed in it before he'd take a look himself at this ship coming at them from behind - he would be rather easy to make out with his unique and dark navy uniform amongst the seas of browns and beiges, not to mention the crowds were usually parted for him too. And then he saw the house which the ship supposedly belonged to... "Get the refugees to the infirmary and off the main deck." The stark contrast in his voice from just seconds ago was heavy, as he spoke almost through gritted teeth, lowering the spyglass to reveal his hardened gaze staring hatred towards the Faithful, turning sharply away and giving the spyglass back to Sofey with a firm hand, "Everyone to the infirmary, NOW!" Calling back to the crowds of waters, he'd grab Reman nearby and tug him closer by the front of his shirt, "Give them arms to defend themselves with but do NOT let them out of there, tell them to stay put and not to show themselves on the deck. The infirmary is the most reinforced spot. Understood?" Reman would no doubt follow his orders, leaving the squirrel to turn to Sofey and probably Dakota but looking past them at their pursuers, "That is House Balestra... reknown for their participation in putting the Golden Tether back into the hands of the slavers." He nearly spat out their name, standing still amidst the quick ushering of most of the people below deck, "And I will be damned if I let them take those that we rescued back to that Hell... now sound that alarm bell and get ready for their cannons!"
Raine Liot would hear the alarm, and with that the facade of normalcy was dropped. Strong fingertips grasped a heavy midnight cloak and threw it about the shoulders, followed by a snap of what appeared to be a weapons belt upon the waist. "It seems Charon will drink this night, if a fool be attacking." Raine promised a dear punishment to those whom would dare get between he and the time he spent with Rishana. Fingers twitched a few times to make sure that the appropriate clasps and what not were there, before opening the door confidently and striding out into the shadows of the main Cabin area that mixed with the Captains, seeking to get above decks and into the air as swiftly as possible.
Sofey Eristis snatched the spy glass from Nykita as he offered it, and immediately looked over at the approaching ship. "They fuckin' fools if'n they thinkin' we stoppin' this beast, Cap'n. Ye think they'd play nicely'en jus walk away?" Sofey spoke out to the squirrel, chuckling a little bit as she took a heavy drag of her cigarette. Everyone knew Sofey didn't shy away from a good scrap! "They ain't fired, yet. Playin'es, Nyki? 'Er we needin' teh throw the first punch teh get'em teh play?" she further asked the Squirrel Captain. Sofey put her hands on both her hips, took a deep breath of Sea-Tainted Air, and regarded that Flare that Freya had thrown up. "Aye.... Told ye teh not take them fuckin' slaves, Cap'n. Ye fuckin' bleedin' heart gonna kill some'uh ye fuckin' real crew," the first mate snarled over to him. "We ain't got much Sea left teh play with. Ye turnin'er back out teh Sea..?" asked finally as the serval turned with a heavy whip of her coat. She was going to wait for the answer, Sofey Eristis was going to wait for the answer and then head below deck for some of her favorite toys and weapons!
Rishana: :sighed heavily and relinquished her empty glass to the nearby table. "Every-freakin'-time!" Yeah. She was not happy when she realized what was about to occur. Of all the boats, in all the oceans, all over the world, she had to be the one gearing up for an attack! Grumbling, she got to her feet and donned her own cloak, following Raine out of the cabin. "Do they not know what they are getting into? Irritated female here, and I am about to get my hands on a weapon. Bad combination! Not to mention, how rude to interrupt our wine drinking!" Gotta love priorities!
Freya the ninetails turns from mid deck and pats a few of the people along the back ushering them to the stairs below and turning her frame to head towards the cannons and help stock them in prep for a battle the vixen puffing up a bit in her fur and glow feeling a little angry that they never could seem to hit port without some kind of fight breaking lose.
Yaelth's expression sours as she listens in on the conversation that of the captain and first mate. Her eyes narrowed. That were not good. She had her mindset in two places and shakes her head the exchange unsettling with a battle coming up. Rubbing her nose she speaks for the first time since her stream of complaints earlier. "Captain." Starts French otter. "Where do you want me sir." She wasmost definately prepared for something of this nature. Little otter had a big tuff to do.
Nocturnal Aymen's ears flickered and folded down against her head as the news hit her. She'd smirk softly, knowing something would happen sooner or later. Either way.. the woman moved, quickly slipping into action. She, being the main medic on the ship, helped with the ushering of all those resuced down into the med-bay. "Move it, Quick, Don't look back. Don't trample eachother, let's GO." The hybrid pushed, and took over that motherly like role. "Now." Stern, too. Once those were dealt with, the stragglers too were pushed to follow up and keep pace. With that, paws dusted.. she'd sigh, and moved up near Nyks side.. casting her gaze around those that she had not seen in some while.. such a welcome home this was.
Zelanze Balestra would set the rifle aside just long enough to lift his spy glass and look out over the enemy deck. Waiting for a moment before tossing it to Ingrid, if she was close enough. "They're taking positions, pretty clear they intend to fight. Commands all yours" admittedly, a little eager to see how his new recruit handled a command, and if she was really the one to entrust the naval situation too. Zelanze might be older, and have more experience in war and battle, but his conflcit specialty lied in other areas. So with that, he'd regrip his firearm, come to a knee, and settle himself down next to the few bottles with rags stuffed in to them he seemed to have brought. The crew knew the drill, every man and woman they had picked up on port would know to listen for Ingrid's orders the moment weapons flew.
Liam Laca ears flicked when Wind admitted he'd like to fight them. They fell back on his own head as he looked forward. It was true that the slaughter of all those men and women, innocent workers, it make his own stomach churn, and it still gave him nightmares when his dreams caught him unaware. But it was a necessary fight. Even if the reason behind it was noble. When Ingrid started barking orders to undo what he'd already done, he just kinda let it happen. Apparently he knew what he was doing so there was no point to get upset about it. He flicked his ear and tail and just watched ahead of them, the ship in the dark obsidian waters. "Guess I don't blame you none Windthor. Just thought it might be nice." He knocked his crossbow but kept his staff behind him. He was a good with the staff, but he was a force to be reckoned with on the bow. He took a deep breath. The awkward and yet electric breath before the storm. One he wasn't too keen on being caught in. But damn if he wouldn't deliver.
Windthor Pryas reached over to clap Liam on the shoulder. "I'm not saying I'd be opposed to a peaceful resolution, but..." He indicated, almost sadly, towards the Harbinger. "...Well, I think it goes without saying that it's obvious we're shit outta luck on that one." He shrugged, flexing his fingers and rolling his shoulders. "Honestly, this set up, this tension... Kilin' me." The hybrid huffed, turning to Ingrid. "Tell me where to go and what to do, I'll take position!" he called to the fox. Seeing as he didn't have a long-ranged option, he was going to man a cannon and load it himself if he needed to.
Ingrid Brandt saw that they didn't have many guns, and she was a little confused. Why does an armored ship have so few guns? She had also seen all the, frankly obviously civilian, gawkers on deck in the flarelight. She hadn't realized that a Kitsune had fired the "flare" or that might concern her a little more. But, despite the stories she had been told of them being rapacious raiders who had very nastily butchered some crew or another, she decided to take the approach recommended by Tsun-Zu. Restated, in so many words, by her countryman Clausewitz. War is nothing more than one side attaining it's goal by making "the enemy" see that it is the least painful of the available options. "Minenwerfern! Feindliche Kanonen! Feuer!" she shouts, and at that the two mortar positions at the front take a split second to aim, and then both bark shortly. Two large stones fly into the air, their distance short, but still arcing in the mortar/howitzer style to land directly on their gun deck. IF successful in their hits, the "stone" rounds would reveal themselves to be explosive in a matter of speaking, shattering and spreading naptha onto the deck around the guns. If they hit and shattered in such a way, being near the guns could be a bad idea, and since they had so few of them... Well, her plan, if successful, was to knock out their nine-pounders right away, and give them a good reason to surrender, especially with so many civilians. She, however, is unaware that they think that The Faithful is a slaver ship, and doesn't even know what "the tether" is. Ingrid Brandt also adds on that it won't destroy their guns, but the fire cant be put out with water, it would only spread it and make it worse as liquid/oil fires do, aaand its hard to load a gun witha fire going on.
Nykita Aymen stepped to the railing overlooking the main deck, looking down to see Raine as he emerged from the officer's quarter with Rishana, "Either let Sasha take control or call upon her knowledge, either way get on the helm and do what you can to stop them from overtaking us and make sure we are still closing in on Eileadora." And to Rishana, "May want to get below deck for their first volley." This was going to be a painful one and he knew it but orders went out for the crew to arm themselves, Yaelth in particular had her own orders, "The moment you see a chance, I want an arrow in each of their eyes." She was the sharpshooter, so it was time to sharpshoot! Stepping down from the helm with Dakota beside him, the squirrel walked towards the main cargo hatch, "Get Gaea to strengthen the hull around the infirmary in particular love and see if you can get Raykit to wake up?" Probably one of the few gentle smiles that he will have for the day went to her at that moment, pulling her in by the waist for a kiss before letting her take care of that task and moved to assist Freya in preparing their own cannons, all five remaining ones at one side at just about the time the sounds of cannon fire came from the other ship, making him turn towards the direction with his ears perked, "BRACE YOURSELVES!" He'd call out and race back to the helm, to the very stern in order to watch how the enemy ship conducted her assault.
Raine Liot's fur would ripply and switch and body leapt up the stairs to the Helm. As ordered, Black would become blue in a smooth transition that would be heartachingly beautiful big blue bitch came forth dressed in far too little for her larger frame. The shriek of the Mortar fire would crash down upon her even as the helm suddenly was nudged to the side. There was a stirring in the water that lapped around the two ships. A churning that was creating difficult waters for those whom wished to aim and exact accuracy in a meaningful way. That was Sasha's contribution to the fight, just to protect the Civilians by keeping the crazy Slaver Ship off of the Aim. The water underneath churned as the call went out for aid from these evil beings from the hearty Fish Friends.
Sofey Eristis was stepping down from the Main Deck as the Captain made the call to keep on heading towards Eileadora... Well! Wasn't the best idea she'd heard all day, but... Rishana was grabbed forcefully by her blouse. "Oi! Ye quit ye fuckin' jabbin'en ye listen teh tha' fuckin' man'ep there, aye?! He'll keep ye safe'en out'eh the locker!" she screamed in Rishana's face. There was a small blankness, the calm before the storm, and then her ears swiveled back and forth for a moment. "MORTARS!!!" she yelled to the group, before throwing Rishana out of the way of the incoming blast and to the side. Sofey was engulfed in the smoke and haze and fire for a moment. Lost in the dark for a moment, the flames erupted shortly thereafter and Sofey's loud mouthed voice was heard over the flames and smoke. "Fuck!" she screamed oh-so poignantly. All she wanted was to embrace her lovers in Eileadora again... A small fleck of blood came from her face and her shirt had a few tears in it. "Awlright..." Sofey Eristis stared and looked at the flames for a second. "Ye wanna play..? Let's fuckin' play," said the serval, who disappeared below deck to grab some things. It'd have to be quick!
Rishana was ordered by the Captain, watched a shape shiftin', was grabbed, screamed at, jostled around, then tossed to the side. Deaf, probably bruised a bit, and downright stunned at that shapeshifting! Yep. This was going to be fun! The entire ship shook from the force of those mortars, making her stumble as she peeked around the doorway to the decks in front and above. "Aww hell, if I am going down, might as well be fighting." She reached for a sword laying on the deck; probably fallen from a struck crewman's fingers. "Can't we all just freakin' get along?" Steeling herself, yet staying out of the way, she hugged the wall and stepped into chaos!
Nocturnal Aymen shivvered lightly.. she'd smile.. stealing the kiss back.. lingering for a moment.. "Mmm, yes my love." the hybrid stated. The chaos of everything around her was pushed aside.. She'd slip down the hatch just seconds before shit, hit the fan, so to speak.. Bracing herself against the wood interior.. closing her eyes, as the woman called out to Gaea. Stronger now then she was before, so much more.. Paws placed against the inner decks, as she dipped down to her knees, and began to communiate with the ship. After a few moments, tendrils began to pull away from the ship, and arched, and wavered, responding to the fae inside. She'd nod to herself, while speaking under her breath still. gaea thickened, and began to embrace the ship, coating the wood with her vines, stealing against the attacks and focusing on the enforcement of the med-bay, as well as where her heart was... Noct'd nod, with a soft grin.. nature was strong nad it felt good. Gaea however, reached out into the ocean, grappling up all the life that could be grasped, and eating. The hybrid stood, dusted off again, and slipped off to rouse the sleeping bloodsmith. "Ray, You must wake my darling sweet dragon..." she'd sigh.
Yaelth offered a firm. "Aye sir!" She chirps simply. She'd managed that just before ducking for cover. Between the eyes? Slow but sure a wicked smile Ducking the mortar and finding cover she's quick to place an bolt in her bow. Rather one of the bows she borrowed from beneath the ship's deck. Her own yew long bow wouldn't do for this one. Crossbow it was. The small otter braces the weapon on the railing keeping her head low. Eyes stare across the water and once the boat was in a suitable distance for the odd otter it was time to play so to speak. Most were in cover, clever ducks they were but there was one she could see blipping in and out of view. A large white against the ship. Probably the easiest target. Humming a lullaby that lacked sincerity she trailed him for a moment attempting to predict his path. She takes her first shot - he was her target and whether it hit or not the otter had locked on with manic obsession.
Zelanze Balestra: would cover his ears as the mortars went off, that tale tell whistling as they shot high in to the air and came down on the enemy deck. It was a real gamble to have fired them so close, but it seemed to have paid off. A relieved sigh escaping his lips as he could tell their deck went flame. Lifting the spy glass, it was clear both vessels were heading towards the Etla dock line. "If we can't disable their ship, Etla's docks should be empty and abandoned this time of night, if we pursue them at this speed they'll have to stop or...." he would say to Ingrid before shooting her a sideline glance. Could she tell what he was thinking? Would the knight truly intend to run the ship aground? Ultimately, however, it was her call. Train of thought interrupted when an arrow was let loose towards Wind, and the knight would ready his rifle. Taking aim at the otter and giving a long, deep exhale. Calming himself, but not firing. Not until Ingrid gave the word.
Liam Laca steadied himself a moment. The round that soared across the sky and then crashed into the ship, only to bathe in in fire, it had Liam wincing. He was under the impression they were supposed to be holding fire, waiting till they made a move. But that apparently was not how it was going to play out, and all in all them making the first move was probably safer if not a little more aggressive. He thought back to his first mission with Zelanze ever, and their crew shooting before talking... But now wasn't the time, especially when an arrow zipped across the sky. Liam jumped back and readied his own arrow. His crossbow was already knocked back, he held the smaller weapon up and searched the adjacent ship for whomever shot the bolt. He didn't have a direct order as of right now, so, this was what he'd do. Try and, at the very least, keep his friends safe.
Windthor Pryas lifted an arm, moving to wave towards Ingrid. "Ingrid, gib mir eine aufgabe!" he called out to the naval fox, though his lifted arm was, by sheer dumb luck, the thing that saved him. As the arrow sailed at him, the tip hit the iron bracer on the back of his arm. The impact did surprise him, and he yelped, falling into cover. "Scheisse!" yelled the hybrid, his German taking over for a moment. Welp, that was dumb. At least he hadn't been ventilated, though the dent poking ever so slightly into his flesh was a reminder of what might have happened if he didn't have luck on his side. "I'll just head to a cannon, let me know when to fire!" At least behind a cannon, there was more cover.
Ingrid Brandt grins deviously as one of the large mortar rounds hits, scattering fire across the cannons of the other ship. Being tat they're both naval vessesl, they had been treated to be more fireproof, and the naptha would burn before the wood.. But if it burned for long enough and got hot enough, the treated wood would catch, too. But she's rather pleased for a moment, as she doesn't see anyone on fire over there. As the common tongue speakers begin asking for orders, she seems confused, apparently having thought she was only in charge of the mercenary gun crews. "Small Arms! Fire at will!" she shouts out, giving the order for everyone not assigned to a cannon to engage at their own descretion. With the waves churning they will be more accurate than the main guns. She looks around, since it's the aft deck where commands are generally directed form there's got to be.. aha, a trumpet. A speaking kind, predecessor to the loudspeaker. Before using it, however, she waits till the roughened swells have moved just right, and gives the order, "Port Battery Zwei! Fueur!" she shouts, and the lower deck guns all go off at once, or as very near to 'at once' as a dozen guys can get. The grape shot flies towards The Harbinger's hull, the vixen having used the roughened waters to ensure this, actually. The grapeshot will bounce very harmlessly, but very loudly against the hull, sounding like very strong and metallic hail. She's still trying to not kill anybody, since she saw civilians topside at the outset of battle. She then brings the horn to her mouth, shouting into it towards the other ship, "Harbinger! Surrender at once! Quarter will be given!" of course, she would be vehmently opposed to returning slaves to a slave safehaven, but she doesn't know their side of the story, or what they're thinking, and vice versa.
Nykita Aymen the sound of exploding stone mortal rounds was not the same as regular cannon shot and upon hearing that behind him, he rushed over to see that one of them had smashed on the deck near two of the nine-pounders on his deck, bathing the area in flame, his reaction was to snarl as his paws gripped the railing - were they going to answer his challenge with a demonstration of what happens to those that oppose the beliefs of the Golden Tether? And then another thud before he felt the ship listing lazily to the left, "Sasha!" He'd call out as he saw the woman was out beside the helm, having been close to the proximity of the first explosion to get both charred from the flames and cut from the sharpnel, falling beside the wheel she was supposed to be manning, "Sera! Get over here and take over from Sasha!" Once the tiger was there, the squirrel could duck down to sweep the dazed wolfess from the ground and over his shoulder, carrying her inside of the officer's quarters where Gaea was also strenghtening the structure, chuckling slightly as he laid her down against the wall, "So much for impaling another ship with a mast, huh? Haha..." The barrage of small arms fire dotted the ship and shattered the glass of the officer's quarters windows but there were enough spots for people to duck behind as long as the Faithful remained behind the Harbinger. Nykita had got back to the helm by that point, raising his voice to call out over the flames, which he did not seem to think were that big an issue a long as they did not spread to the inside of the ship, "Get to the stern of the ship! Do not give them a reason to fire over where the refugees are hiding!" The main cargo hatch would then part open as the huge form of the black dragon climbed out from the bowels of the ship, Raykit the Bloodsmith was joining the fray it would seem, woken by the lovely voice of Pale Eye and annoyed at the metallic rain hitting the hull of the ship, spreading his large wings and taking to the darkening skies with a rather manic grin. Hearing the call being made from the ship just after the hail of grape shot and regular small arms that left the stern and rear-sides of his ship looking shredded but still very much intact, the squirrel had to grin and laugh - they wanted them to surrender?! He had to look around at his comrades around him, " You hear that? They want us to surrender! Go ahead and give them the answers of those who are free to do and say as they like!" Turning to the kitsune, the squirrel grinned as he stood behind the cover of the helm, "Freya!" The squirrel called out to the kitsune, ears folding back slightly as he smirked, "Let them feel the heat!" The kitsune gypsy nodded with a grin of her own, climbing up to the helm of the Harbinger to aim the next flare right at the persuing ship but packing some more... strength into this ball of bright flame, so that when it struck a solid surface it would seemingly melt into flames, not nearly as potent as the chemical ones that were being hurled at the Harbinger but a danger enough nonetheless.
Sofey Eristis returned back up above deck with a few trinkets of note: two loaded and prepped cannons slung under her arms as she hefted them too easily, a bow-and-arrow and quiver slung over her back, another lit cigarette perched out the left side of her mouth, and a bottle of rum held in her left hand. The serval's stare was blank and unreadable as she came to stand next to the Captain. "Cannon's'er gone, Nyki. She's holdin', but tha' fire ain't gon' be snuffed," she said near-lifelessly to the squirrel. The bottle of rum was offered to him; should he not take it, it'd be dropped! The rest of the world was forgotten, the focus found... The yells from Ingrid was who she was after and a single cannon was dropped down to the deck right at her feet. The other was slung under her right arm, and her left hand would come to pull the cigarette from her lips and put it to the fuse. Focus in on the sounds of the barking vixen; must be their first mate! Sofey Eristis had fired blind before, but her ears made her hardly blind. Aim was found by sound alone. The Cannon would explode under Sofey's arm and the serval tanked the blowback all-too-easily; seems she'd done that one before! Try it with two cannons! You'd see a show! "Fuck'em..." Sofey exclaimed through a plume of smoke exhaling from her lungs.
Rishana was beginning to see that she was a very little fish in a great big sea of sharks; again, pun intended! Changing forms, and plant tentacles, and expertly aimed arrows while all she had was a... sword. At least it was shiny! Sorta. And, she had no clue who was attacking, nor whom the other ship belonged to! Seeing Sasha's prome form, she was ready to head up through the flames, but Nyk took care of it, carrying the listless female into his quarters. A shot wizzed by her head, catching her cheek in a trail of blazing heat, leaving bloodied flesh behind. A graze, but a painful one that had her crying out and clasping her cheek, then ducking inside while Nykita rushed back out.
Yaelth knew far better keep her head poking back out. The otter does not check for hit or miss trusting her own line of sight. By the time Zelanze has his rifle trained on her the wily otter has ducked. Yae drops to all fours and waddles her short shit self along the deck much like a feral would - the next bolt between her teeth. Her ear ticks at the sound of something bouncing off the hull. A shiver ran down her spine that forced her body to arch slightly like that of a frightened cat. Except it was more rage than fright, they were trying to sink her home. Truly! Whiskers took to frenzied twitching and her rudder thumps the ground. "No surrender not even for fish cap'n!" No one told her to have restraint. Zoe was off leash until yanked back and it had been a while. Otter tries to avoid some of the hotter spots on the ship but she couldn't avoid everything and stay in cover. Neither could she fire from proper cover. She takes another shot, this time at one of their mortar men. Can't have them firing too much for too longer right? Unfortunately this exposes her not for too long but certainly long enough.
Zelanze Balestra had a steady hand, and even as the otter ducked he would find his calm. The world melted to chaos around him, shoting and flames, but the knight was never wavered. Another long, calm breath took over his form before the otter popped up again. With a soft click the golden wheel of the rifle turned, igniting the gunpowder and sending the single round free. The knight was not a marksman, but as soon as she got her arrow off she'd be just as like to find a bullet in her shoulder even as one of them men on deck took a fall from the arrow. When he noticed the Serval Hybrid somehow lift full sized cannons, objects that oft' required several men, the knight's eyes would widen. "Ingrid, it's time for us to move!" stated loudly and clearly as he dropped the rifle and moved well clear of where the canon would smash their deck, damaging the ship. "Liam we seem to have encountered a slight dragon problem! You and Wind are dealing with it" barked out. The Faithful was not named as such because she was incapable. Over the much larger ironclad she was faster, better armed, and seemed to have a much more organized crew. The flames from the Kitsune would catch on the deck, but they wouldn't burn bright just yet on the fire treated wood. Small fired breaking out on corners of the ship. Apparently, the Harbingers crew had literally resorted to throwing barrels of rum and straight tossing cannonballs down upon them, and it was nothing the ship couldn't weather. Well within visual sight of the docks, however, The Faithful seemed intent to pursue the Harbinger at full pace while maintaining fire and grape shot on them. At this rate, the Harbinger would either need to come to all stop, or collide with shore.
Liam Laca's keen little eyes spotted that dragon in second flat. He was already running towards it before Zelanze had barked out his own orders to grab Windy to help... He really needed to tell them that he was actually NOT able to teleport other people and it actually did a pretty horrible number to his internal organs. But that was apparently for another day. He turned on a dime and ran back towards Wind and grabbed his wrist "When you get there, Yall better be able to fly from there. T-This shit's gonna knock the wind straight outta me for a second." he wasn't a question it was a command, he couldn't keep teleporting him back and forth, but he could at least drop Widnthor near the dragon to attack it. Liam also didn't give Windthor much time to mull it over either, as the second those words left the goat's mouth, they were gone. An extra large ploom of black smoke that was abandoned on the winds. Gone from everyone's sights. Liam Laca and Windthor would reappear. Another ploom of pitch black fog only this time above the ship they'd been pelting with fire. Liam released Windthor's wrist and poofed himself a little further down, giving Windthor all the air he needed to start his own attack and flight towards the dragon. Liam on the other hand landed on the beast itself. His hands gripped at whatever purchase of flesh he could drag his claws into. His cough was wicked and blood came up with it. Though if one thing could be said about Liam it was that he was as hard-headed and stubborn as goats came. He shook his head, glared and picked himself up, teleporting himself off of the dragon and once more into the skies, the only trace of him once more was the inky black clouds that perfectly hid him in the twilight hours of this night. Thankfully Liam had knocked his crossbow back already, and when he slipped another arrow into it's groove, held up his arms and released a bolt into the air. Liam Laca aimed at the dragon's head. He himself was a sharp shooter, knowing nothing but the bow and only recently learning the staff as a means to enter legalized arena fights. But he lived, breathed and bled around that bow. He locked eyes with Nykita. Liam's own form whipping around in the higher and more violent winds. While the boy wanted nothing more for them to simply have talked it out, order were orders. He watched the other with those lime green eyes, blood smeared around his lip and teleported once more, only to reappear only seconds later, staff raised in side swing only a few inches from the dragon rider. Hoping to land a hit.
Kaden Britta stumbles onto the scene, making his way upon hearing the chaotic commotion. The sight of course not only answered but threw his senses for a loop, trying to take in the anarchy he was looking at. "By Aunt Margaret's saggy breasts.... what in the ever living holy hell....?" his lower jaw just hangs there after muttering the words, watching the massive ship, the dragon, the fighting, the spells being cast and he is mesmerised. "Ain't no way I am getting involved in this shit... nooope." he'd pull out a bag of peanuts and just start tossing them into his mouth as he watched.
Yaelth's scream was not a loud thing, in fact was more a firm squeak and hiss. Blood begins to dribble and ruin her shirt and it only has the otter seeing red. She's back into the fray with more vigor. She's no longer looking for the flash of light but for the gent who shot her and for it she goes mad. Only a little mad. She's a whirlwind of rage as the pain washes over most logic. The otter ducks in and out at a much faster pace this time, taking shots - hopefully taking out more of their (npc) crew.
Windthor Pryas had been striding towards a cannon, hoping to get to it and fire off a round, though at Zel's orders, he froze. "What!?" he demanded. Then, Liam was grabbing him. "Hold--" Welp. Suddenly, he was above the dragon. Okay, this was happening. Well! He'd better make the best of it. Wings flattened to his body as gravity took him. Depending on how high up he was, this was probably going to hurt. Whether it was him or the dragon was... Soon to be seen. While he probably wasn't at terminal velocity, his speed was high, and he suddenly flipped his feet around, aiming both heels at as fine a point as he could to land, hard, at where the base of the dragon's tail met with its spine. Knees bent to absorb his own impact into himself so that he wasn't seriously hurt. So now Nyk was suddenly surrounded by dudes! "Surprise!" he yelled, grasping, or attempting, upon anything he could get his hands on and keep himself from falling onto the Harbinger. Windthor Pryas would give Liam time to swing his staff, then hoist himself closer to the dragon riding squirrl to, hopefully, deliver a blow somewhere upon Nyk's head to distract him long enough for Liam to perhaps get back onto the Faithful if he needed. Of course, he could go on a speech about how Nyk was going to answer for his crimes, but now might not have been the time, nor the place.
Ingrid Brandt had never seen a dragon before, so her jaw dropped as the dark shape crawled from the other ship and soared out. Only the darting shapes that she doesnt even realize are her people bring her eyes back down just in time to see the short flash and huge smokey plume of the cannon going off. She assumes it's a regular old ball round, but she's shocked as she didn't think she'd spotted any stern chasers when the flare had been up, and the fire was illuminating their deck - was that someone-something (on the wing?!) holding a cannon? Luckily for her, hip-firing anythng, let alone a cannon, wasn't very accurate. Although the serval seemed to handle the recoil surprisingly well, resulting in it coming very close. The railing on the aft part of the ship behind the helm is torn, as it is puny wood standing up to stronk metal. It zips quite close to Ingrid, close enough to make the helmsman look back from his cover. The pressure of the fairly large metal ball blows the vixen to one side and she takes a second or two to get up. Although she's barking orders as she does get up, "Minenwerfern! Feindlische Kommando, Feuer!" and though one of the fellows at the mortars had his foot pinned rather painfully to the deck by the French crossbow bolt, and he's dealing with that, the other two can still reload and fire. The rougher waters make it harder to hit, but the flame mortars fly for the aft deck of The Harbinger now, where the improvised stern chaser was fired from, and where the vixen is assuming the helm is, as she crawls behind her slightly moved cannon carriage with a strong cough, taking full cover for the moment.
The peaceful night, or as peaceful a night as there can be in Eileadora, would be rudely interrupted with what seemed like a growing storm on the horizon with flashes of light and distant booming sounds that turned out to be the chase between the Harbinger and the Faithful! The heavier and larger frigate was on fire that was spreading across the deck very slowly and had little in defensive measures against a rear-attack but it could take a rediculous amount of abuse as the Faithful crew would find. Then the pirates counter-attacked! A rain of fireballs flew in graceful arcs from the deck of the Harbinger to fall upon the deck of the smaller attacking vessel, before the Captain himself returned fire in a rather unique manner - drawing forth the rarely used blade at the small of his back, revealing it to be Japanese blade by make but it was hard to describe in detail as he swung the weapon in a downward slash, the blade itself glowing and channeling his magical energies into a crescent beam that crashed against the enemy ship to leave nice visible cuts where the energy just... ground away at the hardened wood before dispersing. A wonderous exchange of fire if there was one, without even describing how Sofey was going to add in the destruction, Nykita stepped out onto the open deck, glancing back into his quarters where Rishana was situated beside Sasha, "You picked a Hell of a time to drop in!" He'd call to her with a smile before he turned to the skies, "Raykit!" Came the call from the deck, Nykita calling the dragon down to have him pick up a few heavy objects to drop down from above since he was not exactly the most graceful of flyers, though also for another reason... as he was in the process of going through with his idea of riding Raykit, non-sexually much to the disappointment of the dragon, he spotted Dakota and smirked, approaching her in the midst of all that chaos, battle and commotion , one arm grasping her around the waist to not so much hug her but tug her to himself with a nice 'bump' of their bodies meeting, him smiling down to her with... a tender smile but wild eyes, leaning down to nose at her cheek with love before growling and brushing his muzzle down to bite at the side of her neck, also with love, "...I will come back to you, worry not, my love..." And then he stole a deep kiss from her, parting it with a turn towards his soon-to-be mount and spotting Sofey, in that battle-crazed state, something that made him pause - he saw it before and she needed another force to drive her back to the ship from the battle but what? That kiss was still lingering on his lips and thus the idea came to him, approaching the cannon-slinging woman from behind and reaching up to grasp her hair, yanking it back just enough so that she'd be able to see his muzzle over her shoulder, "I better see that ass back in my quarters after all of this..." Yeah, that was a threat and so was the bite to her cheek that came afterwards. Then he was off, riding Raykit in a way the dragon didn't exactly approve of! In the air, the dragon released a large barrel of rum to come crashing down onto some poor unforunate souls and Nykita was preparing his own attack when he felt something appear nearby, turning his head just in time to see the huge winged canine coming down heels first onto Raykit's back, causing him to arch in pain and slow the flight for a moment and that goat-boy aiming a crossbow at him! Wait... the aim was slightly off and Nykita realized that he was not the target but rather the dragon himself and so he'd loosen his hold, reaching out to quite literally snatch the bolt from the air! Not traditionally though, he let the bolt pierce his palm while his fist clenched, stopping it from reaching Raykit at the cost of serious damage to his paw, snarling at the pain but if they thought that they were the only ones with theability to teleport, they were wrong! Cradling his injured arm to his chest, holding onto the dragon with the other, as Liam appeared before him the squirrel with that staff swinging, he'd find that his mark just... have veil of invisibility pulled before him and disappeared into thin air! Reppearing behind Liam, Nykita looked down at the boy grimly, "Get off my comrade!" Came the shout at the same time as a kick was aimed to slam into Liam's back and send him barreling right into Windthor! Meanwhile, the Harbinger sailed into the harbor at full speed, on fire and still be persued... already smashing a jerry as it came at speed, knocking aside lesser vessels as it sped towards the dry land!
Sofey Eristis had, at some point, dropped the useless cannon and just stared to watch the destruction. Sofey was filled with a glee that could not be expressed nor explained. It was the plumes of smoke from her cigarette that marked her breathing, yet she was gone to the wartorn moments of battle. It was only the wrenching of her hair and the biting of her cheek that grounded her in the moment. Lips quivered excitedly as she stared at the Squirrel and his orders. "Aye, Cap'n..." was said in a low-toned, lusty growl. When Nykita parted from her, Sofey went to go pick up that left bottle of rum and casually take a long, hard sip from it. Drinking in the middle of battle?! Yep! That's what the crazed sadist was doing. "Waste'uh fine rum..." commented the serval before that bottle was expertly chucked at Liam's face as he went barreling back into Windthor. The mortars hit the Helm where Sofey was standing. Once more the serval was engulfed in darkness, smoke, haze, and FLAME ON!
Raine Liot was settled in the Quarters shared with his Sister and a good Friend. Fingers grasped the rim of the brass goblet, hooked slightly to grasp while grinning to oneself. It was a peaceful time through the ship, so there was no need to wander or add too much detail. Dressed in a dark pair of slacks and a blue tunic, hair into a curious fauxhawk of sorts as if to deny the silvery grey that was there.
Rishana was in that same cabin, sipping on a glass of fine red, chatting with Raine, and just enjoying the relative solitude. Her reception had been better than expected on The Harbinger, and now it was time to enjoy!
Yaelth was swabbing the deck. She was not free folk being paid for the work but sure as hell believed that hard work made for less folks in danger of her temper. Very real danger of her temper. She'd been mulling some things over since the last port and was suffering from a mean bit of Napolian syndrome. "I should have gut him." She chirps. "I should have gut him real good." The mop slops back and forth at this point.
Freya the ninetails Was leaning on a rail along the upper deck of the ship huffing a bit of the cold into a small fog between her hands. Freyas furr glowing slightly useing her magics to keep herself warm for the time being. the sound of the crashing waves on the ship side being a pleasing music to her ears at the moment.
Nocturnal Aymen's paw pressed into Nyks as they held paws. She cuddled into his side, enjoying the view, the soft grass under their feet.. the whole moment of it all. Briefly the woman was caught up on what had happened, and why.. and how.. There was no way she could hide the immense feeling of proud she had for the man at her side. Tails flickered and swayed, curling in around their frames as muzzle moved to nestle against his cheek.. content in the moment.
The Faithful was night invisible in the darkening evening with it's running lamps extinguished. A dark silhouette against the black sky, at least until the ship was at The Harbinger's rear. Suddenly lamps lit the deck and the ship popped in to clearly visible view like a phantom from the dark and, just after, the Balestra Family Heraldry flag flew high; raised alongside the Lima Signalizing flag that demanded the vessel they were trailing come to a stop. The Faithful with it's gold trimmings and high flags seemed to be fitted with copper plating that just barely caugt the lamps reflections as well as a miriade of ropes down it's sides. At the helm was a familiar knight to some, and soon to be antagonist to others. Regal posture even at the helm; straight back, high shoulders, and proud chest as he locked the wheel in place. "Liam, to be safe let's prepare for a warm welcome. Ready the mortars! Windthor, let the crew know we're running on alert. Ingrid, I have a feeling they wont so easily acquiesce to our demands. Naval battle is your show, so you're up" commands echoed out over and below deck through the complex copper piping system as he stepped away from the wheel to grab his blades.
Kodachrome kept under deck making sure things would be working in correct order. Sure, she ran to the little windows she'd gotten of sorts, listening through tubes to hear what was going on. She just would keep under deck, keeping things working. Pressure gagues full, so they could be as sharp and as fast as needed.
Liam Laca was adjusting his scarf a little. It had been a while since he'd been seen in Balestra company. Not for a lack of interest mind you. No it had more to do with tying some loose ends in his own life down finally. Getting squared away some family matters, Liam was finally able to suit up and get ready to actually take his post back up with Balestra. He jimmed the clasp on his scarf a bit and then clipping on his gear. He checked the string of his crossbow and then set to work doing a few positions with his staff. Making sure he had a good handle on the placement of his hands and so that it delivered a good hit when it landed. When that was all said and done he finally made his way top-side. Coming up next to Zelanze he sighed and looked out at the water. The dying sun made his skin crawl. Not that he was afraid, but, it meant the prey they were hunting was about to be circled in on. Liam Laca heard the command and did exactly as was asked, flitting back and forth between the cannons and prepping them as needed. He wasn't about to miss a beat on this.
Windthor Pryas had been on deck at the bowsprit of the ship, though he was low. Even in the little light that was around, the hybird was nearly stark white, and even the reflection of the moon would cast a spotlight onto him. This kind of thing spoke to his instincts as a predator, stalking prey, watching its every move. However, as the lights came on and the flags raised, he turned and sprinted back towards the middle. "Way ahead of you!" he called back to Zel, going belowdecks, shouting for everyone on board. "ALL HANDS ON ALERT!" His voice, usually a tenor, would carry throughout the rooms, and he'd call a good three times before popping back onto the deck.
Ingrid Brandt would already have her gunners ready, of course. Around two dozen would be needed to aim the port guns, of which there are ten, two to each gun with a petty officer strategically placed every few guns as a captain of that section. They're all nine-pounders like The Harbinger's, and all on carriages, loaded with grapeshot. There are two mortars forward, but despite being able to turn a full 360 degrees, the rocking of the waves and the closer distance made them highly inaccurate. She had planned, should worse come to worse, to sweep their deck with grape. Although anyone with sense could easily see the 5 canons on the weatherdeck aimed high, and the opened gunports of the gun deck. She was the only marksman, and she wishes she'd hired some marines, but... the guns seem like enough. She's rolled an extra carriage onto the rear deck where the helmsman is, and is taking cover behind that, going so far as to wear an old conquistador-style helm, hastily painted black to not give her position away. She waits with her single shot rifle, keen on not firing at all, but ertainly not firing or giving the guns the order to fire until she is given that order herself.
The first to spot the sudden appearance of the ship was no doubt Reman during his patrols, turning his head to observe several of the unfortunate folk that caught the eye of the first mate and were deemed worthy enough to do some minor manual tasks alongside their very cheerful otter sharpshooter, then glancing out to the darkening waters surrounding the ship just the lights were turned on to full blaze to reveal their pursuer, running to inform the commanding officer on the deck rather quickly before the crowd of refugees began to converge against the railings, eager to take a look at what had just appeared behind them but none of them were as privy to the knowledge of what a signal flag meant nor were they close enough to make out the house which the ship belonged to with the fading lights. But there was a clutter of them. Nykita had not been aware of the new ship as he was rather focused on the pleasant moment with his wife, until he happened to turn in her direction and see the glow of another ship's lights behind them, "Hm?" They were close to Eileadora, was this an escort? It was impossible for him to see the identity of the ship clearly from the side windows of his quarters but there was one thing that made him rise quickly, snatching his wide-brimmed hat from a hook at the doorway, "Sorry love, appears we have some interesting company." Readied cannons were a hard sight to forget! Yet when he emerged from his cabin, he was now scowling but smirking because... who was it that was daring enough to try to engage them in combat this close to Eileadora?
Sofey Eristis was at the Helm of the Harbinger, a place she would love to always be, if the Captain Aymen would just allow it! This Pirate Captain was smoking one of her favored rolled cigarettes, complete with various herbs and intoxicating substances. A relaxed scowl was on her face, brought on by the happiness provided by her favored smokes! "Mind the fuckin' boom, ye landlubbers! Ye stealin' me wind! Ain't long'en ye be sippin' wine'en samplin' fine sands'uh Eileadora! So don't steal me kiss'uh the Sea Goddess! She'uh fine lover," she yelled from her perch down at the forced Cabin-Boys down below. A look was made to Reman as he came up to the Helmsman. "The fuck ye wan'..?" she asked him, lowering her gaze. She was happy, don't mess with her... A ship behind them?! Sofey turned to look at The Faithful. "CAPTAIN!!!!" she screamed at the top of her lungs, stomping harshly the wood beneath her feet, which was above Nykita's head "Ship astern! Hailin'es..." She had to focus on the hail.
Raine Liot knew nothing amiss at the moment, so laughed and clinked the bottle with Rishana. It was a very quiet evening. Nothing at all was admiss on the creaky innocent boat of the Harbinger, taking refugees and heading to a safe harbor according to Lady Suiyasha.
Rishana -Ignorance was bliss, especially when wine was involved! Mmm... wiiiiinnnee. Anyways, things were going swimmingly (pun intended), until that loud stomping was heard from above. Seeing as how Raine's cabin was so close to Nyk's, it was possible to hear the thump, yet not the hollering. Dark eyes raised toward the ceiling of the small room. "What's going on up there? Sounds like someone is coming through the deck."
Freya the ninetails offed a bit as the fox was pushed and pulled by the others now pressing to the rails of the deck to get a look at the ship heading close to them."Easy now easy to not want anyone going over board yes?" Freya pulled back from the crowds watching them crowd slowly form and then shouting in the back toward the cabin doors. Nykita slowly pulling from his door to up deck pulled her gaze as se moved to the middle of the ship."Captain shall I send out a flare over the water to light up the night?" Freya would call an wait for orders before doing anything. If told to do so the fox would charge a small flame in her palm and hurl it from the middle of the deck. the shoot would look like a shoot star flinging from the ship and arching in the sky before exploding in the air lighting the sky up in the magical flare. If told to delay her order snuff out the flame in her paw and do as told.
Nocturnal Aymen's ears gave a flickering swivel, up towards the decks above at the noises.. and her husbands haste. She rose, dusting off her skirts as if she hadn't a single care in the world before soft steps carried her to follow her husbands path. Oh so non-chalantly.. Tails curled and coiled, following the pace of her feet, being careful not to get under foot while trailing behind her all the same. Top adjusted, not exactly content in having her moment with her husband interrupted by such noises.. though a trite bit of concern finally.. after a moment.. crossed her face.
Zelanze Balestra would clasp Liam on the shoulder before he poofed away to handle the preparement of armaments. Paws fell to his hip, securing the two blades there before reaching out to lift and secure his shield to his back and finally grab a rifle of his own; a wheel lock that the knight had taken to being his favorite despite their reputation of being fragile and expensive to maintain. Ingrid was, of course, to be in command of the battle if it came to it but the knight gave the orders for what could be the calm before the storm; "Hold" said just loud enough for the deck to hear him. As the flare, presumably, went up he'd reach his arm out to shield his eyes for a moment, squinting just slightly. "They're just taking a look now, we can't fire until or unless they resist." it wouldn't be right to handle the situation any other way.
Liam Laca was as quick as lightning. He bolted from one cannon to the next. Navymen? Who needed them when Liam could be there in and reading everything in only seconds flat. Still when all was said and done he sat back and swallowed thickly. He'd never been in something like this before. He wasn't sure really still where to sit, but he had faith in Zelanze and Windthor. He had faith in Balestra. Seconds after he'd filled the last cannon his ear flicked and caught the sound of Zelanze asking them to hold. He jumped forward and blinked from below deck to next to his captain once more. "Yall thinking they might not give us no trouble?" Liam chuckled, knowing that obviously was not the case since they'd armed themselves to the teeth it seemed. "Might be kinda nice thinkin, them just coming quietly and us just working this shit out. Yall ever wonder why that never is? Aint a soul ever comes quietly do they." less of a question and more of a statement.
Windthor Pryas adjusted his vambraces as he watched Liam literally popping from one cannon to the next, though his eyes soon fell on the Harbinger, and he grimaced, rolling his shoulders. His wings stretched and flexed, the joints cracking not unlike the knuckles on his hands, which he was doing now. "Honestly," he said, stepping up to Liam's side, "is it bad that I almost want them to board us?" Probably, but not many could argue with the dog that punched everything. It did almost sound like a joke, too, though his face was blank and his ears had pinned back against his skull. These were the crew who had destroyed that ship, which felt like so long ago. "Well, one way or another... This is about to get moderately upleasant for everyone involved."
Yaelth blinks her eyes as the random snow. She was in a strange mood, distant and lost amongs all the chaos. Her eyes hardened though, any ship that was not their ship could not have been too good then again there was that proverb about womp womp something something appearances. This wasn't a time for that. The otter in her mood won't press to get a look at the ship but instead moves like wildfire down beneath the deck to grab her supplies. The femme was in no mood so this encounter was perfect.
Ingrid Brandt sees all the commotion occuring on the "enemy" deck, she doesn't really consider these people her enemy, which has often been the downfall of mercenaries. Not caring as much about the fight as their adversaries. But with all the feet trundling, and one in particular stomping, she'd realize just how wooden their weatherdeck and probably subsequent inner structure is, and it causes her to grin widely. "Minenwerferen! Flammenlösung kurz!" she barks, and the three person mortar crews load an interesting, more rounded stone looking round, and not nearly the same amount of powder as the cannons.. Well, they're mortars. In any case, assuming the ship is illuminated, she'd not really in any place to hide anymore, but overturned cannon carriage stil lmade for decent cover, topped by the helmet.
Nykita Aymen had to shove past a few bodies to get to the helm once he was on the main deck, hearing the call being made by Sofey even before he was out from his quarters, "When did they appear? This could be a nice trick that Manda would play on me..." He'd say with an amused tone, holding out a paw and expecting there to be a spyglass placed in it before he'd take a look himself at this ship coming at them from behind - he would be rather easy to make out with his unique and dark navy uniform amongst the seas of browns and beiges, not to mention the crowds were usually parted for him too. And then he saw the house which the ship supposedly belonged to... "Get the refugees to the infirmary and off the main deck." The stark contrast in his voice from just seconds ago was heavy, as he spoke almost through gritted teeth, lowering the spyglass to reveal his hardened gaze staring hatred towards the Faithful, turning sharply away and giving the spyglass back to Sofey with a firm hand, "Everyone to the infirmary, NOW!" Calling back to the crowds of waters, he'd grab Reman nearby and tug him closer by the front of his shirt, "Give them arms to defend themselves with but do NOT let them out of there, tell them to stay put and not to show themselves on the deck. The infirmary is the most reinforced spot. Understood?" Reman would no doubt follow his orders, leaving the squirrel to turn to Sofey and probably Dakota but looking past them at their pursuers, "That is House Balestra... reknown for their participation in putting the Golden Tether back into the hands of the slavers." He nearly spat out their name, standing still amidst the quick ushering of most of the people below deck, "And I will be damned if I let them take those that we rescued back to that Hell... now sound that alarm bell and get ready for their cannons!"
Raine Liot would hear the alarm, and with that the facade of normalcy was dropped. Strong fingertips grasped a heavy midnight cloak and threw it about the shoulders, followed by a snap of what appeared to be a weapons belt upon the waist. "It seems Charon will drink this night, if a fool be attacking." Raine promised a dear punishment to those whom would dare get between he and the time he spent with Rishana. Fingers twitched a few times to make sure that the appropriate clasps and what not were there, before opening the door confidently and striding out into the shadows of the main Cabin area that mixed with the Captains, seeking to get above decks and into the air as swiftly as possible.
Sofey Eristis snatched the spy glass from Nykita as he offered it, and immediately looked over at the approaching ship. "They fuckin' fools if'n they thinkin' we stoppin' this beast, Cap'n. Ye think they'd play nicely'en jus walk away?" Sofey spoke out to the squirrel, chuckling a little bit as she took a heavy drag of her cigarette. Everyone knew Sofey didn't shy away from a good scrap! "They ain't fired, yet. Playin'es, Nyki? 'Er we needin' teh throw the first punch teh get'em teh play?" she further asked the Squirrel Captain. Sofey put her hands on both her hips, took a deep breath of Sea-Tainted Air, and regarded that Flare that Freya had thrown up. "Aye.... Told ye teh not take them fuckin' slaves, Cap'n. Ye fuckin' bleedin' heart gonna kill some'uh ye fuckin' real crew," the first mate snarled over to him. "We ain't got much Sea left teh play with. Ye turnin'er back out teh Sea..?" asked finally as the serval turned with a heavy whip of her coat. She was going to wait for the answer, Sofey Eristis was going to wait for the answer and then head below deck for some of her favorite toys and weapons!
Rishana: :sighed heavily and relinquished her empty glass to the nearby table. "Every-freakin'-time!" Yeah. She was not happy when she realized what was about to occur. Of all the boats, in all the oceans, all over the world, she had to be the one gearing up for an attack! Grumbling, she got to her feet and donned her own cloak, following Raine out of the cabin. "Do they not know what they are getting into? Irritated female here, and I am about to get my hands on a weapon. Bad combination! Not to mention, how rude to interrupt our wine drinking!" Gotta love priorities!
Freya the ninetails turns from mid deck and pats a few of the people along the back ushering them to the stairs below and turning her frame to head towards the cannons and help stock them in prep for a battle the vixen puffing up a bit in her fur and glow feeling a little angry that they never could seem to hit port without some kind of fight breaking lose.
Yaelth's expression sours as she listens in on the conversation that of the captain and first mate. Her eyes narrowed. That were not good. She had her mindset in two places and shakes her head the exchange unsettling with a battle coming up. Rubbing her nose she speaks for the first time since her stream of complaints earlier. "Captain." Starts French otter. "Where do you want me sir." She wasmost definately prepared for something of this nature. Little otter had a big tuff to do.
Nocturnal Aymen's ears flickered and folded down against her head as the news hit her. She'd smirk softly, knowing something would happen sooner or later. Either way.. the woman moved, quickly slipping into action. She, being the main medic on the ship, helped with the ushering of all those resuced down into the med-bay. "Move it, Quick, Don't look back. Don't trample eachother, let's GO." The hybrid pushed, and took over that motherly like role. "Now." Stern, too. Once those were dealt with, the stragglers too were pushed to follow up and keep pace. With that, paws dusted.. she'd sigh, and moved up near Nyks side.. casting her gaze around those that she had not seen in some while.. such a welcome home this was.
Zelanze Balestra would set the rifle aside just long enough to lift his spy glass and look out over the enemy deck. Waiting for a moment before tossing it to Ingrid, if she was close enough. "They're taking positions, pretty clear they intend to fight. Commands all yours" admittedly, a little eager to see how his new recruit handled a command, and if she was really the one to entrust the naval situation too. Zelanze might be older, and have more experience in war and battle, but his conflcit specialty lied in other areas. So with that, he'd regrip his firearm, come to a knee, and settle himself down next to the few bottles with rags stuffed in to them he seemed to have brought. The crew knew the drill, every man and woman they had picked up on port would know to listen for Ingrid's orders the moment weapons flew.
Liam Laca ears flicked when Wind admitted he'd like to fight them. They fell back on his own head as he looked forward. It was true that the slaughter of all those men and women, innocent workers, it make his own stomach churn, and it still gave him nightmares when his dreams caught him unaware. But it was a necessary fight. Even if the reason behind it was noble. When Ingrid started barking orders to undo what he'd already done, he just kinda let it happen. Apparently he knew what he was doing so there was no point to get upset about it. He flicked his ear and tail and just watched ahead of them, the ship in the dark obsidian waters. "Guess I don't blame you none Windthor. Just thought it might be nice." He knocked his crossbow but kept his staff behind him. He was a good with the staff, but he was a force to be reckoned with on the bow. He took a deep breath. The awkward and yet electric breath before the storm. One he wasn't too keen on being caught in. But damn if he wouldn't deliver.
Windthor Pryas reached over to clap Liam on the shoulder. "I'm not saying I'd be opposed to a peaceful resolution, but..." He indicated, almost sadly, towards the Harbinger. "...Well, I think it goes without saying that it's obvious we're shit outta luck on that one." He shrugged, flexing his fingers and rolling his shoulders. "Honestly, this set up, this tension... Kilin' me." The hybrid huffed, turning to Ingrid. "Tell me where to go and what to do, I'll take position!" he called to the fox. Seeing as he didn't have a long-ranged option, he was going to man a cannon and load it himself if he needed to.
Ingrid Brandt saw that they didn't have many guns, and she was a little confused. Why does an armored ship have so few guns? She had also seen all the, frankly obviously civilian, gawkers on deck in the flarelight. She hadn't realized that a Kitsune had fired the "flare" or that might concern her a little more. But, despite the stories she had been told of them being rapacious raiders who had very nastily butchered some crew or another, she decided to take the approach recommended by Tsun-Zu. Restated, in so many words, by her countryman Clausewitz. War is nothing more than one side attaining it's goal by making "the enemy" see that it is the least painful of the available options. "Minenwerfern! Feindliche Kanonen! Feuer!" she shouts, and at that the two mortar positions at the front take a split second to aim, and then both bark shortly. Two large stones fly into the air, their distance short, but still arcing in the mortar/howitzer style to land directly on their gun deck. IF successful in their hits, the "stone" rounds would reveal themselves to be explosive in a matter of speaking, shattering and spreading naptha onto the deck around the guns. If they hit and shattered in such a way, being near the guns could be a bad idea, and since they had so few of them... Well, her plan, if successful, was to knock out their nine-pounders right away, and give them a good reason to surrender, especially with so many civilians. She, however, is unaware that they think that The Faithful is a slaver ship, and doesn't even know what "the tether" is. Ingrid Brandt also adds on that it won't destroy their guns, but the fire cant be put out with water, it would only spread it and make it worse as liquid/oil fires do, aaand its hard to load a gun witha fire going on.
Nykita Aymen stepped to the railing overlooking the main deck, looking down to see Raine as he emerged from the officer's quarter with Rishana, "Either let Sasha take control or call upon her knowledge, either way get on the helm and do what you can to stop them from overtaking us and make sure we are still closing in on Eileadora." And to Rishana, "May want to get below deck for their first volley." This was going to be a painful one and he knew it but orders went out for the crew to arm themselves, Yaelth in particular had her own orders, "The moment you see a chance, I want an arrow in each of their eyes." She was the sharpshooter, so it was time to sharpshoot! Stepping down from the helm with Dakota beside him, the squirrel walked towards the main cargo hatch, "Get Gaea to strengthen the hull around the infirmary in particular love and see if you can get Raykit to wake up?" Probably one of the few gentle smiles that he will have for the day went to her at that moment, pulling her in by the waist for a kiss before letting her take care of that task and moved to assist Freya in preparing their own cannons, all five remaining ones at one side at just about the time the sounds of cannon fire came from the other ship, making him turn towards the direction with his ears perked, "BRACE YOURSELVES!" He'd call out and race back to the helm, to the very stern in order to watch how the enemy ship conducted her assault.
Raine Liot's fur would ripply and switch and body leapt up the stairs to the Helm. As ordered, Black would become blue in a smooth transition that would be heartachingly beautiful big blue bitch came forth dressed in far too little for her larger frame. The shriek of the Mortar fire would crash down upon her even as the helm suddenly was nudged to the side. There was a stirring in the water that lapped around the two ships. A churning that was creating difficult waters for those whom wished to aim and exact accuracy in a meaningful way. That was Sasha's contribution to the fight, just to protect the Civilians by keeping the crazy Slaver Ship off of the Aim. The water underneath churned as the call went out for aid from these evil beings from the hearty Fish Friends.
Sofey Eristis was stepping down from the Main Deck as the Captain made the call to keep on heading towards Eileadora... Well! Wasn't the best idea she'd heard all day, but... Rishana was grabbed forcefully by her blouse. "Oi! Ye quit ye fuckin' jabbin'en ye listen teh tha' fuckin' man'ep there, aye?! He'll keep ye safe'en out'eh the locker!" she screamed in Rishana's face. There was a small blankness, the calm before the storm, and then her ears swiveled back and forth for a moment. "MORTARS!!!" she yelled to the group, before throwing Rishana out of the way of the incoming blast and to the side. Sofey was engulfed in the smoke and haze and fire for a moment. Lost in the dark for a moment, the flames erupted shortly thereafter and Sofey's loud mouthed voice was heard over the flames and smoke. "Fuck!" she screamed oh-so poignantly. All she wanted was to embrace her lovers in Eileadora again... A small fleck of blood came from her face and her shirt had a few tears in it. "Awlright..." Sofey Eristis stared and looked at the flames for a second. "Ye wanna play..? Let's fuckin' play," said the serval, who disappeared below deck to grab some things. It'd have to be quick!
Rishana was ordered by the Captain, watched a shape shiftin', was grabbed, screamed at, jostled around, then tossed to the side. Deaf, probably bruised a bit, and downright stunned at that shapeshifting! Yep. This was going to be fun! The entire ship shook from the force of those mortars, making her stumble as she peeked around the doorway to the decks in front and above. "Aww hell, if I am going down, might as well be fighting." She reached for a sword laying on the deck; probably fallen from a struck crewman's fingers. "Can't we all just freakin' get along?" Steeling herself, yet staying out of the way, she hugged the wall and stepped into chaos!
Nocturnal Aymen shivvered lightly.. she'd smile.. stealing the kiss back.. lingering for a moment.. "Mmm, yes my love." the hybrid stated. The chaos of everything around her was pushed aside.. She'd slip down the hatch just seconds before shit, hit the fan, so to speak.. Bracing herself against the wood interior.. closing her eyes, as the woman called out to Gaea. Stronger now then she was before, so much more.. Paws placed against the inner decks, as she dipped down to her knees, and began to communiate with the ship. After a few moments, tendrils began to pull away from the ship, and arched, and wavered, responding to the fae inside. She'd nod to herself, while speaking under her breath still. gaea thickened, and began to embrace the ship, coating the wood with her vines, stealing against the attacks and focusing on the enforcement of the med-bay, as well as where her heart was... Noct'd nod, with a soft grin.. nature was strong nad it felt good. Gaea however, reached out into the ocean, grappling up all the life that could be grasped, and eating. The hybrid stood, dusted off again, and slipped off to rouse the sleeping bloodsmith. "Ray, You must wake my darling sweet dragon..." she'd sigh.
Yaelth offered a firm. "Aye sir!" She chirps simply. She'd managed that just before ducking for cover. Between the eyes? Slow but sure a wicked smile Ducking the mortar and finding cover she's quick to place an bolt in her bow. Rather one of the bows she borrowed from beneath the ship's deck. Her own yew long bow wouldn't do for this one. Crossbow it was. The small otter braces the weapon on the railing keeping her head low. Eyes stare across the water and once the boat was in a suitable distance for the odd otter it was time to play so to speak. Most were in cover, clever ducks they were but there was one she could see blipping in and out of view. A large white against the ship. Probably the easiest target. Humming a lullaby that lacked sincerity she trailed him for a moment attempting to predict his path. She takes her first shot - he was her target and whether it hit or not the otter had locked on with manic obsession.
Zelanze Balestra: would cover his ears as the mortars went off, that tale tell whistling as they shot high in to the air and came down on the enemy deck. It was a real gamble to have fired them so close, but it seemed to have paid off. A relieved sigh escaping his lips as he could tell their deck went flame. Lifting the spy glass, it was clear both vessels were heading towards the Etla dock line. "If we can't disable their ship, Etla's docks should be empty and abandoned this time of night, if we pursue them at this speed they'll have to stop or...." he would say to Ingrid before shooting her a sideline glance. Could she tell what he was thinking? Would the knight truly intend to run the ship aground? Ultimately, however, it was her call. Train of thought interrupted when an arrow was let loose towards Wind, and the knight would ready his rifle. Taking aim at the otter and giving a long, deep exhale. Calming himself, but not firing. Not until Ingrid gave the word.
Liam Laca steadied himself a moment. The round that soared across the sky and then crashed into the ship, only to bathe in in fire, it had Liam wincing. He was under the impression they were supposed to be holding fire, waiting till they made a move. But that apparently was not how it was going to play out, and all in all them making the first move was probably safer if not a little more aggressive. He thought back to his first mission with Zelanze ever, and their crew shooting before talking... But now wasn't the time, especially when an arrow zipped across the sky. Liam jumped back and readied his own arrow. His crossbow was already knocked back, he held the smaller weapon up and searched the adjacent ship for whomever shot the bolt. He didn't have a direct order as of right now, so, this was what he'd do. Try and, at the very least, keep his friends safe.
Windthor Pryas lifted an arm, moving to wave towards Ingrid. "Ingrid, gib mir eine aufgabe!" he called out to the naval fox, though his lifted arm was, by sheer dumb luck, the thing that saved him. As the arrow sailed at him, the tip hit the iron bracer on the back of his arm. The impact did surprise him, and he yelped, falling into cover. "Scheisse!" yelled the hybrid, his German taking over for a moment. Welp, that was dumb. At least he hadn't been ventilated, though the dent poking ever so slightly into his flesh was a reminder of what might have happened if he didn't have luck on his side. "I'll just head to a cannon, let me know when to fire!" At least behind a cannon, there was more cover.
Ingrid Brandt grins deviously as one of the large mortar rounds hits, scattering fire across the cannons of the other ship. Being tat they're both naval vessesl, they had been treated to be more fireproof, and the naptha would burn before the wood.. But if it burned for long enough and got hot enough, the treated wood would catch, too. But she's rather pleased for a moment, as she doesn't see anyone on fire over there. As the common tongue speakers begin asking for orders, she seems confused, apparently having thought she was only in charge of the mercenary gun crews. "Small Arms! Fire at will!" she shouts out, giving the order for everyone not assigned to a cannon to engage at their own descretion. With the waves churning they will be more accurate than the main guns. She looks around, since it's the aft deck where commands are generally directed form there's got to be.. aha, a trumpet. A speaking kind, predecessor to the loudspeaker. Before using it, however, she waits till the roughened swells have moved just right, and gives the order, "Port Battery Zwei! Fueur!" she shouts, and the lower deck guns all go off at once, or as very near to 'at once' as a dozen guys can get. The grape shot flies towards The Harbinger's hull, the vixen having used the roughened waters to ensure this, actually. The grapeshot will bounce very harmlessly, but very loudly against the hull, sounding like very strong and metallic hail. She's still trying to not kill anybody, since she saw civilians topside at the outset of battle. She then brings the horn to her mouth, shouting into it towards the other ship, "Harbinger! Surrender at once! Quarter will be given!" of course, she would be vehmently opposed to returning slaves to a slave safehaven, but she doesn't know their side of the story, or what they're thinking, and vice versa.
Nykita Aymen the sound of exploding stone mortal rounds was not the same as regular cannon shot and upon hearing that behind him, he rushed over to see that one of them had smashed on the deck near two of the nine-pounders on his deck, bathing the area in flame, his reaction was to snarl as his paws gripped the railing - were they going to answer his challenge with a demonstration of what happens to those that oppose the beliefs of the Golden Tether? And then another thud before he felt the ship listing lazily to the left, "Sasha!" He'd call out as he saw the woman was out beside the helm, having been close to the proximity of the first explosion to get both charred from the flames and cut from the sharpnel, falling beside the wheel she was supposed to be manning, "Sera! Get over here and take over from Sasha!" Once the tiger was there, the squirrel could duck down to sweep the dazed wolfess from the ground and over his shoulder, carrying her inside of the officer's quarters where Gaea was also strenghtening the structure, chuckling slightly as he laid her down against the wall, "So much for impaling another ship with a mast, huh? Haha..." The barrage of small arms fire dotted the ship and shattered the glass of the officer's quarters windows but there were enough spots for people to duck behind as long as the Faithful remained behind the Harbinger. Nykita had got back to the helm by that point, raising his voice to call out over the flames, which he did not seem to think were that big an issue a long as they did not spread to the inside of the ship, "Get to the stern of the ship! Do not give them a reason to fire over where the refugees are hiding!" The main cargo hatch would then part open as the huge form of the black dragon climbed out from the bowels of the ship, Raykit the Bloodsmith was joining the fray it would seem, woken by the lovely voice of Pale Eye and annoyed at the metallic rain hitting the hull of the ship, spreading his large wings and taking to the darkening skies with a rather manic grin. Hearing the call being made from the ship just after the hail of grape shot and regular small arms that left the stern and rear-sides of his ship looking shredded but still very much intact, the squirrel had to grin and laugh - they wanted them to surrender?! He had to look around at his comrades around him, " You hear that? They want us to surrender! Go ahead and give them the answers of those who are free to do and say as they like!" Turning to the kitsune, the squirrel grinned as he stood behind the cover of the helm, "Freya!" The squirrel called out to the kitsune, ears folding back slightly as he smirked, "Let them feel the heat!" The kitsune gypsy nodded with a grin of her own, climbing up to the helm of the Harbinger to aim the next flare right at the persuing ship but packing some more... strength into this ball of bright flame, so that when it struck a solid surface it would seemingly melt into flames, not nearly as potent as the chemical ones that were being hurled at the Harbinger but a danger enough nonetheless.
Sofey Eristis returned back up above deck with a few trinkets of note: two loaded and prepped cannons slung under her arms as she hefted them too easily, a bow-and-arrow and quiver slung over her back, another lit cigarette perched out the left side of her mouth, and a bottle of rum held in her left hand. The serval's stare was blank and unreadable as she came to stand next to the Captain. "Cannon's'er gone, Nyki. She's holdin', but tha' fire ain't gon' be snuffed," she said near-lifelessly to the squirrel. The bottle of rum was offered to him; should he not take it, it'd be dropped! The rest of the world was forgotten, the focus found... The yells from Ingrid was who she was after and a single cannon was dropped down to the deck right at her feet. The other was slung under her right arm, and her left hand would come to pull the cigarette from her lips and put it to the fuse. Focus in on the sounds of the barking vixen; must be their first mate! Sofey Eristis had fired blind before, but her ears made her hardly blind. Aim was found by sound alone. The Cannon would explode under Sofey's arm and the serval tanked the blowback all-too-easily; seems she'd done that one before! Try it with two cannons! You'd see a show! "Fuck'em..." Sofey exclaimed through a plume of smoke exhaling from her lungs.
Rishana was beginning to see that she was a very little fish in a great big sea of sharks; again, pun intended! Changing forms, and plant tentacles, and expertly aimed arrows while all she had was a... sword. At least it was shiny! Sorta. And, she had no clue who was attacking, nor whom the other ship belonged to! Seeing Sasha's prome form, she was ready to head up through the flames, but Nyk took care of it, carrying the listless female into his quarters. A shot wizzed by her head, catching her cheek in a trail of blazing heat, leaving bloodied flesh behind. A graze, but a painful one that had her crying out and clasping her cheek, then ducking inside while Nykita rushed back out.
Yaelth knew far better keep her head poking back out. The otter does not check for hit or miss trusting her own line of sight. By the time Zelanze has his rifle trained on her the wily otter has ducked. Yae drops to all fours and waddles her short shit self along the deck much like a feral would - the next bolt between her teeth. Her ear ticks at the sound of something bouncing off the hull. A shiver ran down her spine that forced her body to arch slightly like that of a frightened cat. Except it was more rage than fright, they were trying to sink her home. Truly! Whiskers took to frenzied twitching and her rudder thumps the ground. "No surrender not even for fish cap'n!" No one told her to have restraint. Zoe was off leash until yanked back and it had been a while. Otter tries to avoid some of the hotter spots on the ship but she couldn't avoid everything and stay in cover. Neither could she fire from proper cover. She takes another shot, this time at one of their mortar men. Can't have them firing too much for too longer right? Unfortunately this exposes her not for too long but certainly long enough.
Zelanze Balestra had a steady hand, and even as the otter ducked he would find his calm. The world melted to chaos around him, shoting and flames, but the knight was never wavered. Another long, calm breath took over his form before the otter popped up again. With a soft click the golden wheel of the rifle turned, igniting the gunpowder and sending the single round free. The knight was not a marksman, but as soon as she got her arrow off she'd be just as like to find a bullet in her shoulder even as one of them men on deck took a fall from the arrow. When he noticed the Serval Hybrid somehow lift full sized cannons, objects that oft' required several men, the knight's eyes would widen. "Ingrid, it's time for us to move!" stated loudly and clearly as he dropped the rifle and moved well clear of where the canon would smash their deck, damaging the ship. "Liam we seem to have encountered a slight dragon problem! You and Wind are dealing with it" barked out. The Faithful was not named as such because she was incapable. Over the much larger ironclad she was faster, better armed, and seemed to have a much more organized crew. The flames from the Kitsune would catch on the deck, but they wouldn't burn bright just yet on the fire treated wood. Small fired breaking out on corners of the ship. Apparently, the Harbingers crew had literally resorted to throwing barrels of rum and straight tossing cannonballs down upon them, and it was nothing the ship couldn't weather. Well within visual sight of the docks, however, The Faithful seemed intent to pursue the Harbinger at full pace while maintaining fire and grape shot on them. At this rate, the Harbinger would either need to come to all stop, or collide with shore.
Liam Laca's keen little eyes spotted that dragon in second flat. He was already running towards it before Zelanze had barked out his own orders to grab Windy to help... He really needed to tell them that he was actually NOT able to teleport other people and it actually did a pretty horrible number to his internal organs. But that was apparently for another day. He turned on a dime and ran back towards Wind and grabbed his wrist "When you get there, Yall better be able to fly from there. T-This shit's gonna knock the wind straight outta me for a second." he wasn't a question it was a command, he couldn't keep teleporting him back and forth, but he could at least drop Widnthor near the dragon to attack it. Liam also didn't give Windthor much time to mull it over either, as the second those words left the goat's mouth, they were gone. An extra large ploom of black smoke that was abandoned on the winds. Gone from everyone's sights. Liam Laca and Windthor would reappear. Another ploom of pitch black fog only this time above the ship they'd been pelting with fire. Liam released Windthor's wrist and poofed himself a little further down, giving Windthor all the air he needed to start his own attack and flight towards the dragon. Liam on the other hand landed on the beast itself. His hands gripped at whatever purchase of flesh he could drag his claws into. His cough was wicked and blood came up with it. Though if one thing could be said about Liam it was that he was as hard-headed and stubborn as goats came. He shook his head, glared and picked himself up, teleporting himself off of the dragon and once more into the skies, the only trace of him once more was the inky black clouds that perfectly hid him in the twilight hours of this night. Thankfully Liam had knocked his crossbow back already, and when he slipped another arrow into it's groove, held up his arms and released a bolt into the air. Liam Laca aimed at the dragon's head. He himself was a sharp shooter, knowing nothing but the bow and only recently learning the staff as a means to enter legalized arena fights. But he lived, breathed and bled around that bow. He locked eyes with Nykita. Liam's own form whipping around in the higher and more violent winds. While the boy wanted nothing more for them to simply have talked it out, order were orders. He watched the other with those lime green eyes, blood smeared around his lip and teleported once more, only to reappear only seconds later, staff raised in side swing only a few inches from the dragon rider. Hoping to land a hit.
Kaden Britta stumbles onto the scene, making his way upon hearing the chaotic commotion. The sight of course not only answered but threw his senses for a loop, trying to take in the anarchy he was looking at. "By Aunt Margaret's saggy breasts.... what in the ever living holy hell....?" his lower jaw just hangs there after muttering the words, watching the massive ship, the dragon, the fighting, the spells being cast and he is mesmerised. "Ain't no way I am getting involved in this shit... nooope." he'd pull out a bag of peanuts and just start tossing them into his mouth as he watched.
Yaelth's scream was not a loud thing, in fact was more a firm squeak and hiss. Blood begins to dribble and ruin her shirt and it only has the otter seeing red. She's back into the fray with more vigor. She's no longer looking for the flash of light but for the gent who shot her and for it she goes mad. Only a little mad. She's a whirlwind of rage as the pain washes over most logic. The otter ducks in and out at a much faster pace this time, taking shots - hopefully taking out more of their (npc) crew.
Windthor Pryas had been striding towards a cannon, hoping to get to it and fire off a round, though at Zel's orders, he froze. "What!?" he demanded. Then, Liam was grabbing him. "Hold--" Welp. Suddenly, he was above the dragon. Okay, this was happening. Well! He'd better make the best of it. Wings flattened to his body as gravity took him. Depending on how high up he was, this was probably going to hurt. Whether it was him or the dragon was... Soon to be seen. While he probably wasn't at terminal velocity, his speed was high, and he suddenly flipped his feet around, aiming both heels at as fine a point as he could to land, hard, at where the base of the dragon's tail met with its spine. Knees bent to absorb his own impact into himself so that he wasn't seriously hurt. So now Nyk was suddenly surrounded by dudes! "Surprise!" he yelled, grasping, or attempting, upon anything he could get his hands on and keep himself from falling onto the Harbinger. Windthor Pryas would give Liam time to swing his staff, then hoist himself closer to the dragon riding squirrl to, hopefully, deliver a blow somewhere upon Nyk's head to distract him long enough for Liam to perhaps get back onto the Faithful if he needed. Of course, he could go on a speech about how Nyk was going to answer for his crimes, but now might not have been the time, nor the place.
Ingrid Brandt had never seen a dragon before, so her jaw dropped as the dark shape crawled from the other ship and soared out. Only the darting shapes that she doesnt even realize are her people bring her eyes back down just in time to see the short flash and huge smokey plume of the cannon going off. She assumes it's a regular old ball round, but she's shocked as she didn't think she'd spotted any stern chasers when the flare had been up, and the fire was illuminating their deck - was that someone-something (on the wing?!) holding a cannon? Luckily for her, hip-firing anythng, let alone a cannon, wasn't very accurate. Although the serval seemed to handle the recoil surprisingly well, resulting in it coming very close. The railing on the aft part of the ship behind the helm is torn, as it is puny wood standing up to stronk metal. It zips quite close to Ingrid, close enough to make the helmsman look back from his cover. The pressure of the fairly large metal ball blows the vixen to one side and she takes a second or two to get up. Although she's barking orders as she does get up, "Minenwerfern! Feindlische Kommando, Feuer!" and though one of the fellows at the mortars had his foot pinned rather painfully to the deck by the French crossbow bolt, and he's dealing with that, the other two can still reload and fire. The rougher waters make it harder to hit, but the flame mortars fly for the aft deck of The Harbinger now, where the improvised stern chaser was fired from, and where the vixen is assuming the helm is, as she crawls behind her slightly moved cannon carriage with a strong cough, taking full cover for the moment.
The peaceful night, or as peaceful a night as there can be in Eileadora, would be rudely interrupted with what seemed like a growing storm on the horizon with flashes of light and distant booming sounds that turned out to be the chase between the Harbinger and the Faithful! The heavier and larger frigate was on fire that was spreading across the deck very slowly and had little in defensive measures against a rear-attack but it could take a rediculous amount of abuse as the Faithful crew would find. Then the pirates counter-attacked! A rain of fireballs flew in graceful arcs from the deck of the Harbinger to fall upon the deck of the smaller attacking vessel, before the Captain himself returned fire in a rather unique manner - drawing forth the rarely used blade at the small of his back, revealing it to be Japanese blade by make but it was hard to describe in detail as he swung the weapon in a downward slash, the blade itself glowing and channeling his magical energies into a crescent beam that crashed against the enemy ship to leave nice visible cuts where the energy just... ground away at the hardened wood before dispersing. A wonderous exchange of fire if there was one, without even describing how Sofey was going to add in the destruction, Nykita stepped out onto the open deck, glancing back into his quarters where Rishana was situated beside Sasha, "You picked a Hell of a time to drop in!" He'd call to her with a smile before he turned to the skies, "Raykit!" Came the call from the deck, Nykita calling the dragon down to have him pick up a few heavy objects to drop down from above since he was not exactly the most graceful of flyers, though also for another reason... as he was in the process of going through with his idea of riding Raykit, non-sexually much to the disappointment of the dragon, he spotted Dakota and smirked, approaching her in the midst of all that chaos, battle and commotion , one arm grasping her around the waist to not so much hug her but tug her to himself with a nice 'bump' of their bodies meeting, him smiling down to her with... a tender smile but wild eyes, leaning down to nose at her cheek with love before growling and brushing his muzzle down to bite at the side of her neck, also with love, "...I will come back to you, worry not, my love..." And then he stole a deep kiss from her, parting it with a turn towards his soon-to-be mount and spotting Sofey, in that battle-crazed state, something that made him pause - he saw it before and she needed another force to drive her back to the ship from the battle but what? That kiss was still lingering on his lips and thus the idea came to him, approaching the cannon-slinging woman from behind and reaching up to grasp her hair, yanking it back just enough so that she'd be able to see his muzzle over her shoulder, "I better see that ass back in my quarters after all of this..." Yeah, that was a threat and so was the bite to her cheek that came afterwards. Then he was off, riding Raykit in a way the dragon didn't exactly approve of! In the air, the dragon released a large barrel of rum to come crashing down onto some poor unforunate souls and Nykita was preparing his own attack when he felt something appear nearby, turning his head just in time to see the huge winged canine coming down heels first onto Raykit's back, causing him to arch in pain and slow the flight for a moment and that goat-boy aiming a crossbow at him! Wait... the aim was slightly off and Nykita realized that he was not the target but rather the dragon himself and so he'd loosen his hold, reaching out to quite literally snatch the bolt from the air! Not traditionally though, he let the bolt pierce his palm while his fist clenched, stopping it from reaching Raykit at the cost of serious damage to his paw, snarling at the pain but if they thought that they were the only ones with theability to teleport, they were wrong! Cradling his injured arm to his chest, holding onto the dragon with the other, as Liam appeared before him the squirrel with that staff swinging, he'd find that his mark just... have veil of invisibility pulled before him and disappeared into thin air! Reppearing behind Liam, Nykita looked down at the boy grimly, "Get off my comrade!" Came the shout at the same time as a kick was aimed to slam into Liam's back and send him barreling right into Windthor! Meanwhile, the Harbinger sailed into the harbor at full speed, on fire and still be persued... already smashing a jerry as it came at speed, knocking aside lesser vessels as it sped towards the dry land!
Sofey Eristis had, at some point, dropped the useless cannon and just stared to watch the destruction. Sofey was filled with a glee that could not be expressed nor explained. It was the plumes of smoke from her cigarette that marked her breathing, yet she was gone to the wartorn moments of battle. It was only the wrenching of her hair and the biting of her cheek that grounded her in the moment. Lips quivered excitedly as she stared at the Squirrel and his orders. "Aye, Cap'n..." was said in a low-toned, lusty growl. When Nykita parted from her, Sofey went to go pick up that left bottle of rum and casually take a long, hard sip from it. Drinking in the middle of battle?! Yep! That's what the crazed sadist was doing. "Waste'uh fine rum..." commented the serval before that bottle was expertly chucked at Liam's face as he went barreling back into Windthor. The mortars hit the Helm where Sofey was standing. Once more the serval was engulfed in darkness, smoke, haze, and FLAME ON!
The Harbinger Crashes!
Kaden Britta considered getting the ever loving hell off the pier. After all this commotion was all dangerously close and anything could happen really. But on the other side it's not like there was pro wrestling in this era and Kaden never got to see something like this on a day to day basis. So from the distance he just stood, looking on, eating his peanuts. He'd eye the dragon along with the rider from below as he chewed on his peanuts. 'Such a majestic fire breathing screamy pain death monster... and the dragons pretty nifty too.' he'd think to himself with a mouth full, swallowing soon after. "HOLY.... shit..." he'd take a back step, in awe of the cannons and a little startled. Kaden had never seen cannon fire before. "That is feckin awesome... I want one! I need a better view." he'd scramble, running for the tavern before jumping onto the wall, taloned feet and clawed hands digging with a crunch into the stone and wood as he began climbing up it, tail swaying behind him with each pull. He couldn't just take off in flight. Wasn't build for it. More of a glider than anything else. When he reached the top he'd just park his ass on the roof, feet dangling as he watched the eye candy of fire and smoke and fighting and general awesomeness. "This is.... probably gonna draw some people." he'd eye the ground, looking for anyone that like him might have ran up to witness this cluster fuck of anarchic proportions.
The Faithful's hull was wood, sure, but the copper plating was enough to fend off sword strokes magical or otherwise. If they couldn't easily rend the wound, what odds did they have of sheering apart the copper? At this point, both vessels were within spitting distance of the decks, and neither seemed to slow down. The knight picked up, striding heel over heel to one of the pipes that ran through the ship. Others were barked and given as the exchange of fire, cannons, and apparently rum continued between the two ships. It was unfortunate for the Harbinger that they hadn't realized when they crossed the threshold of no return. There was a whirring deep within the ship as steam rolled through the vessel. "We're going to keep at them at max speed, force them in to the harbor!" at this point, even if they tried to turn, there was no way the ironclad could avoid the docks, and The Faithful would overtake them if they slowed.
Liam Laca wasn't at all fucking pleased about the fact that the squirrel not only had some kind of blade to slice into the hull of their ship, but also was able to teleport and turn invisible. But then again, Liam wasn't used to these sorts of fights. He'd been used to his own homeland, and his brothers and sisters at Balestra. But despite severely underestimating Nykita, Nykita severely underestimated Liam and his own teleporting skills. The second Ny left the goat's sight he himself was a cloud of pitch black smoke, away from the line of the rum bottle and away from the kick that was delivered. Which sort of left Ny just standing on his dragon's head, or hovering over it with his foot in the air and a bottle of run sailing in front of his face and into the sea. Litterers am I right? Still Liam appeared a few feet off, once more above the dragon and aiming another into it's head. If he couldn't hit Ny directly, than maybe he could keep skewing him by aiming at his mount. Liam Laca teleported after the shot ran out though, switching to instead simply blinking rappidly from one point to another, all around the dragon, building up a small hazy smoke around them. He could do that for hours honestly, it was taking people with him that hurt him. But such a small distance and only himself? Easy as breathing, especially given that he'd been doing it longer than he could walk.
Windthor Pryas grunted. Fuck, he was mildly out of his league with teleporters. Not to mention, rum throwers. Why would you do that!? The hybrid leaped off the dragon, though his legs weren't quite as strong as he'd hoped they'd ahve been. still, he was able to get enough distance to use his large wings, useless for flying, to glide back to the faithful. Hopefully without too much trouble. Upon landing on the deck, he stumbled and nearly fell, but straightened up a moment later. Liam could handle it. However, he looked over to the shore, brow furrowing. Well, he knew the Faithful would be fine. But the Harbinger might need to buff out some scratches later.
Jayce Ithil saw the shadowy forms of the two ships fighting in the water of the bay, approaching and not weighing anchors to slow, or signals to make port. Sensing the danger the fox grabs his badge and holds it out, staring at it while running for the tavern doors!
Ingrid Brandt had successfully set their helm on fire, so Harbinger wasn't making any more course changes as she sailed or steamed towards the dock. Well. She could probably have a secondary wheel below somewhere, a lot of ships do. But the possible person down near the rudder probably wasn't getting any new orders, since the cargo hatch and foredeck where the only ones not aflame. She pauses for a moment, considering launching mortars again, but remembers the civilians below decks, and thinks better of it. She didn't want to turn Harbinger's internal wooden structure into a fiery inescapable coffin. She catches her breath from being tossed sideways by air pressure earlier, and looks up to the dragon fight, and over to the... quickly approaching city lights. "Verdammt." she curses under her breath, and peaks back up over her cover at the ironclad whose back half was looking more and more like an inferno. So, once again, the feminine, German-accented voice would come up on the horn "Harbinger! Brace for impact and egress your ship! You! Are! On Fire!" still using the horn so that the Harbinger can hear the order she gives, "All batteries cease fire, small arms return fire only!" she looks to the city again, "Und brace for impact, too! Gott Verdammt!!!" and she tries to find something that will act as both cover and hold, not knowing that Zel might have any tricks up his sleeve with the ships maneuverability.
Pip Halsey eyes widened at the warning from Jayce. "Wha?... Wh... " He shook his head, seeing Athenia run out of the bar. He dropped his mug to the floor himself, and hurried out. Already in a bit daze, he followed her drunkenly to the... Harbor? Why where they moving TOWARD the flaming ships?
Yaelth is totes thrown from the ship during impact and probs seriously injured or something!
Jayce Ithil would have grabbed Atheria and pip before they could exit the west doors. "Where are you going fools! To the east toward the forest, go!" He forcefully commands while trying not to be physically rough.
Atheria Blackwind stumbles out towards the docks the mead bottles clutched in her arms and she stares wide eyed. "Well ain't tha' ah' thing Pip?" she whistles. "Oh calm down darlin'." she says to Jayce. "Reckon th' ships are far 'nuff away ain't gon' hurt t' have ah' look." She was so drunk how was she to judge the distance?
Pip Halsey was ready to rush out towards the forest, but froze to watch the ships, his eyes wide. "Those ships are on fire... Why are they on fire? What's going on?" He asked, backing away a bit.
Nykita Aymen found himself in a freefall as Raykit was steadily plummeting down to the ground, no doubt arms crossed over his chest and face with some of the bolts having the unfortunate chance of encountering the armor he wore around his forearms and chest but his shoulder, biceps and paws themselves were going to have a bolt sticking out of them as the squirrel used his abilities to blow the shots going for Raykit as the dragon made his descent and it only took about three bolts to pierce him, in the shoulder, bicep and his other shoulder, for the squirrel to show Liam his other trick in the form of an explosive burst of crimson flames erupting from his figure in an effort to ward away Liam and not injure his comrade too much at the same time. And then... as one would see in most comic books, KRA-KOOOOOOOOM! The sound of thick pillars of wood snapping like tooth-picks under the impact of the heavy ice-breaker going at full speed, a spectable that would have probably drawn in and woken all of the neighbours, bathing the area in bright light from the fires on the deck, shortly before destroying the fuck out of! The ice-breaking hull of the Harbinger crashed through the docks and then caught into the ground, the force from their full-speed uh.. docking made them shirt swing to the left, the entire length the ship them swung in to crush the structure of the docks as it beached itself, rolling heavily onto it's side and spilling some of those liquid flames over onto the streets. Seeing that, getting back to the ship was going to be Nykita main priority... that and dodging crossbow bolts enough to make them hit a non-vital area.
In the dead of the night the docks were alit by commotion from the guard and the reflection of flames from the firey ironclad ship The Harbinger as it barrelled towards the docks with no sign of stopping, pursued by House Balestra flag ship The Faithful. With little time to react the heavy ship would smash violently in to the dock, shattering the wood and destroying the riggings. The pursuing vessel would not suffer the same fate, an odd whirring and the touch of magic deep in the ship's core coincided with the sails leaning back, becoming more aerodynamic as the ship suddenly rose from the water with a heavy splash. Trailing ocean water like rain over the docks as it flew up and over the destruction below it, coming to a stop some ways up and above the crashed ship.
Sofey Eristis was on fire! Oh, by the Gods, she was on fire!! Sofey had been surrounded by Napalm on the Helm of the Harbinger! A small shriek of pain was heard from the Pirate Captain was ablaze in a hail of warfare and sea-faring battles! Flames licked at her feet, burned at her hands, and practically ate through the heavy-leather duster she was wearing on her backside! Angry growls stole the serval's attention as she aimed to do one thing: offer payback to Ingrid. Amidst the flames, amidst the pain, Sofey was going to answer back and... KABOOM! The Harbinger "docked" against the heavy shores of Eileadora's wood and ground structure. No time to react, Sofey would be seen flying through the air and into, subsequently THROUGH the wall of the Tavern; heaps of stone, piled mess, and floating dust were left as the serval went missing for a moment. [Stone Skin]
Pip Halsey saw the ship about the crash into the docks. "Oh fuck this!" He said, turning right around, and heading back into the tavern he just came out of. At least the tavern seemed to not have been directly hit. Should have stayed in there. An idea than came to the thieving mouse. Was going to be a lot of people fleeing. Might as well take advantage of the chaos... And help himself to a few valuables. He grinned, looked around, and began to search the tavern.
(01:20:08) Epitome arrived on scene, mingling with the other guards. That is all for this public service announcement.
Atheria Blackwind squinted at the barreling ship and popped open one of the bottles of mead. Setting it in her beak she tilted her head back and drank deep , might as well not feel this. She stepped back as far as she could, hitting the wall and pressing against it. Too real. She drank more, sitting on the ground and whelp, there goes a squirrel through the tavern wall. Was it a squirrel. "Oh sugah ain't enough mead in th' world fer this." PTSD sinking in real quick.
The Faithful came to life in an entirely different fashion as the sales leaned back and the levistone at it's core roared to life. Lifting up and out of the water with a wet splash it'd trail ocean water like rain over the docks before it was able to come to a full stop. Quick strides carried the knight towards the railing of the ship and rope was tossed over. "Windthor you have the deck, Ingrid I want those gunnery crews keeping an eye out" and with that, he hopped the railing. Sliding down the rope as red cape flaired behind him, coming to what was left of the dock with a crash. Turning towards the gathered guardsmen he would toss them a badge, a little trinket given to him by Firepaw. "With power given to me by Den Fa and the Local Monarchy on this island I hereby exercise warrants, both foreign and domestic, on Nykita Aymen captain of the Harbinger and the entirety of her crew." "On acts of piracy, raiding, terrorism, thirty counts of murder and torture, and the destruction of Eileadoran property" there was a brief pause after he spoke out towards the guards, before he'd give an expectant "Well?" clearly the knight intended for them to help as paw fell to his hip to rest on the grip of one of his blades.
Liam Laca backed off when his skin got hit with that blast of fire. Fuck how many things did this guy have going for him exactly?! Whatever the case, his newly blistered and flame kissed skin would be enough to get him to to leave Ny alone from that point forward. He teleported his own wooly bum back to the faithful just as it was starting to take on air and pull itself into the sky. He took his post next to Zelanze and glared back "Shit them suckers are something else for sure. They aint interested in talkin or nothing" He laughed a bit "Nah but that Ny fella, his ass can teleport too, and he got some kinda fire blast and some invisibility shit and some kinda magic sword. Aint someone I can really go toe to toe with outright.." He watched the ship below careen into the docks and winced. "Shit Zel. I mean, I don't think we're gonna get no kinda christmas dinner invites from these folks any time soon."
Liam Laca watched Ny for a moment, unsure still what to do with all of this. The slaves should be let free, but the crew should answer for the crimes of their slaughter. "Were yall expecting this to play out this way Zelanze..." god Liam wished it hadn't. There wasn't, in his mind, a point for that kinda of carnage. But he shut his mouth up right quick when Zelanze issued his commands. At the very least, this was as peaceful of an end as he would get.
Pip Halsey hurried upstairs in the inn to take advantage of the chaos. He went into one of the rooms, yanked a pillow off the bed, took off the pillow case, and began to fill the pillow case with anything of value he could find. Going to room to room, putting more stuff into the sack. He really needed a good break, and that ship crashing into the harbor might have been it. Ale wasn't cheap, after all. He glanced out the window at the chaos outside. Glad he wasn't apart of that!
Ingrid Brandt only gave them five chances to surrender, and specifically aimed for weapons and control points on the ship, she can't help that fire is fire! She also can't help suddenly feeling like something's... off. She clings with arms and legs to a particularly sturdy post in the brace for impact, but the impact doesn't come, and she feels very suddenly like she's floating. Were they sinking? That quickly? Did they run aground much more softly than she thought? She looks around, and sees the starry night sky, but no harbinger, and no city lights. With the hull of Faithful suspended in the air, the previously commanding voice seems to shout down from above, sans-amplification this time, "What the fuck!?" apparently not having known the ship could fly. Once she's given the order by Zel she turns to the mercenary gunners, "Alle! Nicht schiessen!" which, you know, is "hold fire" or "don't shoot" but might sound different to the common ear. She's quickly down the rope as well, rifle on her back as she immediately surveys the situation and shouts back up to the ship, "Feuerwehr!" and the portion of the crew that had been dousing the decks on Faithful descends on rope ladders and goes right to trying to help with the crashed Harbinger. Ingrid and her mercs going right to work trying to get the refugees and any wounded away from the fire.
Ly'Tillius Elmitore appeared. Just like that! Nothing fancy or special... just a robed figure off to the side of the Chaotic mess that was now the destroyed docks. Tillius observed the Harbinger, its reinforced hull having been run ashore and grounded, nay, embedded into the Docks. A look made to the floating Faithful; ah... an Airship! A small look made to the commanding Zelanze, yet not movements to acquiesce to his requests were made! Tillius just stood off to the side, focused on preventing the Docks from becoming a flaming remnant of soot and ash considering that infamous pirate ship was on fire, and apparently not stopping. A look was made to the badge in his left hand; pentagram charm was seen hovering around him. He specifically had no NPCs assigned to him, and so the Wizard was unable to order anyone around! Silent Mage was Silent. [Douse 1/4]
Alhsom is the unfortunate person who catches the badge. "...Yeah, this aint one of our badges." He'd go to pass that off to Epitome before he goes to get to work on rounding up anyone trying to run off with the assistance of the currently present NPC guards. "Arrest 'em all, sort tha shite out later when Den's around. Aint no way ta prove what they say til then." And then he's off to work rounding up anyone who tries to run away...
Jayce Ithil looks to his badge and stands there quietly, from all points in the city available personnel would begin to descend on the docks and surrounding districts to throw up an armed cordon.
Epitome lifted her head. When addressed by Zalanze. "As my associate here states, this is not our badge, and every single one of you is in violation of the law. As I have seen no official paperwork on the Harbinger and her crew, so what I can judge is what I see now." She raised her voice. "Everyone of both ships are to be arrested and contained, until matters can be resolved with The Master of Laws, when he becomes available!"
Atheria Blackwind really wishes she had wings. She really does. With mead clutched to her chest she would make to run around the side of the tavern and out. Hopefully before anyone sees her. Was she glowing. Oh yeah, she was glowing. Scrawwww
Nykita Aymen breathed heavily, having a few crossbow bolts still sticking out of his body that he seemed to ignore even as they added a steady amount of red to his colour scheme, having landed on the ground close to where the Harbinger had occupied the docks or rather where the docks used to be, "Dakota! Ein!" He'd call out to the pair - his wife and the man he had given orders to keep safe the refugees, needing to snap the shafts of some of the bolds since they were getting in his way as he climbed onto the burning deck, glancing up as the Faithful took flight over them - fucking figures, it was an airship too! Does not matter though, they were in Eileadora. All the crew that were there and able to function were immediately put forth to containing the flame and helping the trapped and probably injured people inside, Ein being among them while Dakota and Nykita would be outside helping them out. With the Eileadora Guards already on the scene, he had no intention of fighting them and any such act.
Nocturnal Aymen stood up, just about the same time the ship came to a stop, destroying the docks of the city, and goodness only knew what else.... She'd shake her head softly as the power that was exerted to protect the shop from the impact.. as much as possible, was heavy, and the woman felt tired. Gaea, the vines that covered the ship, protecting it in a shell of plant matter, seemed to relax when the ship stilled.. though she didn't exactly release her hold. Gaea, was on the defensive.. the vines didn't reach out towards those that approached, but she seemed very much on guard.. as much as a carnivious plant could be, anyhow. The hybrid made her way top deck, refugees following with, guiding them, helping them down with Ein's direction, and her husbands. Not taking mind, or care to those around her. Lives, first.
Zelanze Balestra would give a deep sigh, before a sort of snicker at Liam's comment "It seems like most of our plans end with pretty explosive results. We can help rebuild the docks, but for now we need to make su-" and then people were going on about arrests and nonsense. The knight would look about for a moment, considering the situation before giving a deep sigh "Liam, get the civilians we saw on the enemy ship out and safe. Don't teleport them out, I know you're strained, just work with relief efforts" and with that, he'd turn on his heel and step towards the guard pair; reaching in to his pack and removing several documents to literally shove them in the face of the first woman who spoke. "Here is the Queen's order that we can patrol and take action on the fugitive ship. Here is the signed documentation from Nykita. Here is the foreign draft of Nykita's arrest warrant. You'll find, now that the Harbinger is on dock, Den should unseal the local arrest warrant."
Zelanze Balestra had dealt with all of this before, "a knight without a king" was a huge legal issue as it already was. "I'll go with you to lockout, but my crew remains safe and untouched on the ship. Den should relieve the situation when he can" and with that, he would take a step back and turn on his heel "If you'll excuse me, first I have a man to arrest myself. Then i'll go with you" simple as, and if they wanted to draw steel over dumb nonsense the only thing the guard would accomplish is pointless injuries as the knight would stride towards the squirrel. "Nykita Aymen, you are Under Arrest. My crew and local guard can handle relief efforts, quarter will be given. Submit yourself calmly and safely."
Einlander Saric was kneeling over a fallen refugee, tending to their wounds by applying a numbing poultice. For the most part Ein had did what he was ordered. Using his abilities to manipulate the mana within the ship, he bound each and every person to a safe part of the ship, alas even through it all, the sheer shockwave of hitting the ship caused injuries, but most if not all of his charges were fit to move. Helping the injured refugee up Ein heared the call of his captain and retrieved his staff, a rather simple looking weapon no more than a meter and a half in length made of blackened metal. As Ein ushered his charges up from the bowels of the ship he noted the damge and fires around. He saw Dakota and through the chaos lead her and her charges along with his towards the nearest safe exit, though he knew that none of them were out of the woods yet. Aside from the staff, he seemed harmless enough. When the last of the refugees were out, he waited for Dakota and his captain.
Sofey Eristis came out from the hole in the wall her body had made by crashing through it! Sofey was just dusting herself off, almost like nothing had happened. Flames had kissed her arms, and tarnished some of her clothing, destroyed her favorite duster, which she had to take off to put out the rest of the flames and was now left in the Tavern, though the Pirate emerged relatively unscathed. How'd the serval-hybrid do it? It was like nothing had harmed her in that whole process of her body breaking down a stone wall! She was stomping angrily across the docks, moving through the mess of people to approach Zelanze. "By the power vested'en me by the fuckin' Sea Goddess'erself... I hereby offer me fist teh ye fuckin' face!" screamed the serval, who then proceeded to swing a heavy haymaker right at Zelanze in a angry, wind-up-and-throw-everything punch as he turned to try and arrest Nykita.
Pip Halsey took another peek out of the window. Arrest warrents were being thrown around now. That was his hint to get out of there. He threw the sack of illgotten goods over his shoulders, and headed downstairs. He jumped over the bar, grabbed a few good bottles of alcohol for good measure, and than headed down the secret passage he knew led to the gambling den, and the sewers. Using the tunnels to make his escape.
Ingrid Brandt was coordinating with Harbinger's crew to get the civilians out, she didn't care to turn around and look at the guards, who she considered tertiary. If anything, she'd find it odd that the local civil servants weren't helping put out the fire or help the shaken refugees, so much as they were forming a cordon. But, security is security, she supposes. In any case, she makes zero threatening gestures, doesn't go for her gun(s) or knife, and is wholly concerned on evacuating the ships and then working with her guys to smother the oil fire.
Ly'Tillius Elmitore continued to stand off to the side. This was all a mess... Arguments on who was in charge, what order was in jurisdiction, who was doing what, when to do... the Guards were running with chatter, too. Tillius was looking at his Badge the whole time this was going on, held in his left hand. Around him, that Pentagram Charm was swirling and twirling. Behind Tillius, a small pillar of water had started to be formed, rising up into the sky, fed from the Sea, itself! An infinite source of water to combat those flames that weren't going out easily! Still silent, still observing. [Douse 2/4]
Alhsom gets the paperwork shoved in his face. Stares at it for a moment and considers tossing the lot of it into the sea because, fuckin' rude, mate. Al tucks them away for later, "Yeah. I don't rightly give a damn. Chiefs say take everyone in, everyone fuckin' gets taken in. Don't give two shits what ya say til tha ones in charge say ta do otherwise." While Al is dealing with the rude fox, the NPC guards have been and will continue to do their job of evacuating and rounding folks up... Which has been posted more than once, also, Tillius is working on a spell to help put out the water, so theres that. Then new orders come in, "Right. The flying assholes get taken ta the barracks, the other assholes go to the dungeon." And thats what the NPCs sent by the other guards are handling.
Zelanze Balestra would stop dead when Sofey stepped out and telegraphed such a huge hook. The knight may not have the super strength to lift cannons, but he was a coordinated fighter. Right arm lifted to knock her strike downwards in a physical parry, before attempting to pull her arms behind her back and bind them. Hopefully, with the help of the local guard. They wanted to arrest him too? There was a brief pause, a consideration, a thought. However, with the legal upperhand resisting an incompetent guard would be equally incompetent, so he'd just sigh. He wouldn't submit until Nykita was under arrest as well, but he would submit. Liam and Ingrid were doing relief effort, so hopefully the bumbling city guard at least had the sense to wait, or even help, save the lives of the innocents before arresting his crew. As for The Faithful? It would leave. Without either the readied ships or manpower to pursue it, it would leave off dock and await Den Fa's arrival before returning.
Nykita Aymen pried apart a hatch at the other end of the Harbinger where the fight had not spread entirely to, calling inside for Ein to be able to lead the survivors through the tipped insides of the ship and help them climb out while others could probably use the cannon windows to get out of the ship where Dakota to help them to settle on the ground and probably look over their wounds, no doubt some of the more... assertive of their crew would form a cordon even against the gathering guards, whom would have to deal with the thick vines that seemed to form right out of the hull of the burning ship, hissing and striking at those that came too close to the hull that were not of the crew. The squirrel would then use his own fire abilities to to suffocate the flames spreading, forming his own to blanket the oil patches. It was when his name was called out by this fox that he'd finally turn to face his nemesis, locking eyes with the knight and immediately letting him know how much hate there was for him, quickly moving to intercept the map before he could get too close, "You will not acquire more people to send to that island, slaver." The squirrel spat, wanting to say more only to have Sofey fling herself into the scene and throw a puch at the fox and CLAP! Her fist smacked into something, which was his injured paw as the squirrel held her back, "No! He is mine." The squirrel snarled towards the serval, claiming ownership of being the one to strike Zel first. As for the guards? Well, there would be a moment of stand-off between them before Nykita called back, "Dakota, are they all accounted for and safe?" And should she reply that they were, then the squirrel would gesture for the rest of his crew to cease resisting, "Come, let us have some rest before I talk to my sister about this."
Sofey Eristis had her attacked deterred by the Captain Aymen, and thus she'd not end up in a lock with Zelanze. "Fuck, Cap'n! He ran'es 'ground'en..." Sofey started to say, before she stared over at Ingrid. A look was made to the squirrel for a moment, and exasperated Fiiiiine seemed to be rendered with her face deflating a little, and the serval stared over at Ingrid. "Oi! Ye the shit who destroyed me favor'it coat! Come'ere'n let the Cap'n show ye some love..." Sofey said as she now started to stomp over towards Ingrid. If the Captains were to battle, so would the First Mates! Sofey wasn't even sure if Ingrid was the first mate, or not, but it made sense in her distorted head as she started to anger-stomp over to Ingrid while the Guards continued to argue on who had the biggest cock and could use it the best.
Amena Britta arrived on the scene to make sure all NPC guards and non npc guards were doing what they needed to do, and to lend an extra hand if needed. She found something to stand on first, Amena's short and all, this way she could glance over heads and find familiar faces. She looked over her guards, noting wounded, and guards weren't likely to attack anyone who didn't have a weapon, especially if they were willing to come along quietly to the dungeon. Not at all bumbly. "Oi," shouted, to announce her arrival.
Zelanze Balestra had already submitted to arrest, assumedly alongside Sofey, so if Nyk wanted to fight all the guards apparently in the city to throw a hook he could. The knight gave a long, deep sigh. The feeling of air exiting him brinding his heart rate down and calming him. Dealing with the local authorities was part of it, and he mostly ignored Nykita's attitude. "Your refugees will be relocated and given relief. Nobody plans to take anyone anywhere, the slave trade is not legal on this continent" simple as. "You'll stand trial for the two existing warrants you have, and I shall be there to prosecute you after Den clears us in the morning" explained as he straightened his back. Going so far as to motion towards the knife in his boot, and other possible armaments. "Liam, Ingrid, finish relief efforts if possible then submit to authorities" A mess of a finale, but between blowing up mountains and smashing in to dragons it seemed like they never did things low key.
Liam Laca decided to blink down and stand in next to Zelanze. He was there in time to hear Nykita call him a slaver, and that, that finally got a rise out of Liam. His tail snapped and his ears went back, those eyes turned into slits and he sneered at the fuzzball in front of him. He didn't reach for his weapons or even raise a fist, but he did defend his mentor's honor, or at least what he knew of it. "Zelanze and house Balestra aint no slavers. Dunno what information you're gettin here bucko but that aint the right shit. Now I aint gonna say that what was gonna happen to them folks was good, and I sure as hell am glad they get to be running free and doing as they please for sure. But I also know them men and woman you SLAUGHTERED and GUTTED like PIGS sure as FUCK didn't deserve that kinda shit. THey was just doing their jobs. Kinda like how we're just doin` hours. They had lives, families, yall aint get to make the call if they live or die." Liam Laca huffed and crossed his arms "Zelanze if yall don't mind, I'd like to stick with ya. See how this shit all plays out. I don't feel right not knowin.."
Alhsom continues to go about his task of rounding folks up, cordoning them off where they wont get hurt and arresting fucking everyone at this point with the gaggle of NPC guards. "OI. The lotta ya can shut tha fuck up. Guard Captain Britta is here. So shut tha fuck up an' do what she says."
Ingrid Brandt was helping the refugees, the ones who had the strenght to walk to the tavern, even taking them from the guidance of Ein and Nyk, four other Kiel-looking mercenary sailors using wet blankets to smother where oil had spread. She didn't do much shouting, not sure if someone would point a pistol in her face upon reocgnizing her as the commanding voice from earlier. But if anything, she a code of hono-ah what the hell is that? the pillar of water forming gets the fox a little nervous. She's not overly tall, but she does bounce rather frantically and wave her arms, "Hey! Hey! It's oil fire!" she shouts, "Don't spread it! Mist it at most!" and she looks over to see the guard captain shout "Oi!" only to catch Sofey out of the corner of her eye. She keeps her hands up, only stops bouncing, "Ahhh, waitwaitwait, we're helping! Fightings over!" and.. she didn't mean to be rude, but she didn't really respond to people telling her to shut up and look away from the fire while her trained team was fighting it.
Einlander Saric stood protectively between Dakota, the refugees and any would be guards that attempted to come towards his charges, that is until the ship offered its own form of protection by way of hungry vine like barriers. Ein allowed some of the refugees to go with Ingrid sensing her own bit of honor and that she would not harm them. Seeing Dakota had the healing under control, Ein sought to empower the ship and keep Gaea stable seeing as she was exerting a considerable amount of energy and mana. Blackened staff stabbed into one of the vines as Ein began to focus and channel his own essence into the ship to keep it going. The fires seemed to be under control, he wasnt needed at the moment, though at the drop of a coin he could spring to action if ordered. Silver eyes glanced over to Dakota, then to his captain and first mate and finally to the refugees, taking note of where each and every person was and what they were doing.
Ly'Tillius Elmitore still stands off to the side, spell-prepping and what-not! "Oil? I can push it all out to sea and let the remnants of alchemical fire burn off in a place it won't be a risk to the crews and captives, nor the remnants of the Dock. Even if the two elements do not mix, I can carry oil out in a practical vortex of water." Why did nobody trust his magic? It was said in a monotone as a literal Water Serpent had started to form behind him! Made of nothing but pure sea-water, the 'swimming creature' had started to come to formation as the Wizard's spell was almost complete! [Douse 3/4]
Nykita Aymen had to stand there and face the man who had attacked him, bleeding to the point where his jacket was soaked nicely with his blood from the bolts that the goat-boy stuck into him, which also left his right paw useless but he refused to budge even if there was some dizzyness in his head, standing straight and defiant, "SOFEY!" He roared without even taking his eyes of the fox, "Enough!" There was no more fighting to be had now, they were in Eileadora. "Prosecute me? You hold no authority over me, slaver." The squirrel smirked through his hate of the man only for that goat to appear again and get in his face, something that seemed to almost surprise the squirrel as his tufted ears perked for a moment before folding back, head lifting slightly as if putting himself above the lad, "You stand with the House that prides itself in being the saviours of Guildereim.... the island where victims are shipped to every day to have their lives destroyed and the control of their very lives be stripped from them... Guildereim prides itself in being effective in destroying the lives of the people that get sent there, to rape them of their sovereignty. And you helped save all that." He'd mutter darkly before the voice of Amena, in some crazy messed up twist of character roles, was the voice of reason and order, had him look away from Liam and towards her instead.
Nocturnal Aymen didn't rise, instead, she continued, quietly humming to herself. The hybrid wasn't 'innocent' in anything, and she meant.. anything. But right now, her work was before her, and nothing, short of being physically grabbed, and hauled away from those that were injurd, would stop her. Nyks voice brought her ears to flicker, and her muzzle lifted, she watched him for a long moment.. biting back a smile. Long, lenghty tail deftly moved to curl about her hips nad legs. Humming all the while bleeding was stopped and pains relaxed, and calmed. The woman, was quite intent.
Liam Laca looked straight into Nykita's eyes and held him there. He wasn't at all intimidated by the rodent, and he wasn't about to back down now. "Man yall don't know shit `bout nothin do you? My parents were slaves, my father died as a slave, and the ma who raised me was a slave. My grandpa was a slave, and I by all rights should be rotten away in them pens too. Zelanze gave me protection under his house you fuckin CLOD." He spat "An as far as helpin Guildereim, yall KNOW that the draconic leaders who were gonna take it over, they was willing to kill and maim slaves? Yall know Guildereim has laws AGAINST that right? And they were gonna tear that shit down right? Or how about when we done did in that ice-dragon, the one who was gonna kill EVERYONE regardless of if they believed in the freedom of slaves or even partook in that shit?! Nah cause yall had your own ideas and your head too far up your poop shoot to look at the other side of the story." Liam Laca got in even closer to Ny's face, disregarding personal space and the lack of height he had on the male "I am GLAD you freed those slaves, I never wanna see someone behind bars after the GENERATIONS my blood has been through. But I don't think for a second yall had the right to torture people just tryin to do their job running a fuckin boat. You wanna disembowel someone and hang em up on a mast? Do it to someone you know OWNS slaves huh?"
Amena Britta notes that guards would only become agressive if those resisting became aggressive, and had no intention of not letting anyone be treated that needed treating. Refugees could be questioned later and were let through, but guards were under orders to take those in charge of each ship under custody. Amena let Tilly do his magic thing, eyes soared over Sofey and landed on Nyk. She huffed. "S'late e'eryone. Guards will take yeh tae de dungeon 'n capt'ns 'n wotnot cin 'ave a talk wi' Den Fa in de mornin'. If y'resist, ye'll git a nice warm bed in de dungeons, too." Liam's outburst caught her attention. She nodded to a guard. "Calm yerself, 'n back off now. Y'cin report any ov yer problems tae me latah."
Sofey Eristis stopped in her tracks as Nykita boomed her name out. Sofey stared down Ingrid for a moment, tilting her head to the side as she took in the features of the Vixen. Oddly attractive, though the serval just scowled and stood there for a moment. "Fuck, Cap'n! I ain't even thrown'eh damn punch teh these fucks'en they attacked the crew! The ship! Ye fuckin' bleedin' heart refugees! Ye gonna jus' stand'ere'en let'em take'es..!?" Sofey screamed over at him, angry and upset... until she saw Amena. "Can ye promise'eh nice swift punch'en the face fer disobeyin' ye, 'Mena?" she said with a notably large grin on her face.
Liam Laca ear flitted over towards Amena and watched them for a bit. He didn't have any quarrel with her but he also knew he was causing a scene. Still he backed up a pace from Nykita and lifted his hands in the air. "Fair enough. I'm followin Zelanze though. I am his squire and I don't plan on bailin on him." He shot a glare back at Ny "Despite the rumors yall got goin for him." He'd keep his mouth shut after that and simply followed after Zelanze. Anything Ny had to say to Liam would have to be delivered to his bum.
Ingrid Brandt seems to remain unpunched, and so she just smiles nervously. One of her more military looking mercs gives her a look and she makes a hand signal at him, too. She doesn't imagine they'll be in trouble at all. She's pretty ignorant of what's going on, actually, and was hired on, but her guys are totally clueless of the circumstances - and one of them got shot by a crossbow bolt, poor guys. He's still on Faithful, though. Ingrid just remains standing in front of Sofey, grinning nerbously and looking unimposing, despite having her weapons. She assumes it's wrap-up time, so she just... gets arrested.
Amena Britta nodded to the guard that was keeping an eye on Liam. He'd go to the barracks then, which was going to be heavilly guarded, while everyone on Nyk's end went to jail jail, seperate cells if there were enough. Long ears flicked towards Sofey, who Amena looked up and down. "Aye, 'at Oi cin." She stayed up high so she could sort of look down on everyone! So long as everyone cooperates and goes to their appropriate holding cell, all should be well.
Sofey Eristis would be shuffled off by some NPC Guard, that Sofey totally made flinch when she put her arms out to the side like she was going to lunge at him! There was a sneer, followed by the heartiest of laughs from the Pirate. "Still get ye knife, 'Mena... Ain't never lef' me," she'd say up to the Britta as she willfully walked to her own incarceration, most certainly trying to avoid the chains by being compliant. Sofey hated chains... Arrested right upon returning to the City? How epic was this Pirate Captain to earn such an embrace from the City!? Oh, how she'd love the stories on this one in the future!
Ly'Tillius Elmitore has his magic fade, because, well... the overwhelming contradiction to his idea is just too much to deny! It wasn't the Balance... plus, the Elf probably wasn't needed anymore now that the Rains were approaching overtop of them! It was just the Wizard's intent to help! The Sea Serpent of Sea Water behind the robed Wizard would just fail to come to fruition; the salty power-creature just kind of fell back to the Sea, as if it had never been. "How would you stop oil from burning..?" Tillius spoke out loud to himself, really. Mentally, the Elf was checking his spell book as he tried to think about a solution. Was it Earth? The one Element that had avoided him? "Oh, Captain! I had a question for you, if I might accompany you back to the Barracks?"
The Faithful's hull was wood, sure, but the copper plating was enough to fend off sword strokes magical or otherwise. If they couldn't easily rend the wound, what odds did they have of sheering apart the copper? At this point, both vessels were within spitting distance of the decks, and neither seemed to slow down. The knight picked up, striding heel over heel to one of the pipes that ran through the ship. Others were barked and given as the exchange of fire, cannons, and apparently rum continued between the two ships. It was unfortunate for the Harbinger that they hadn't realized when they crossed the threshold of no return. There was a whirring deep within the ship as steam rolled through the vessel. "We're going to keep at them at max speed, force them in to the harbor!" at this point, even if they tried to turn, there was no way the ironclad could avoid the docks, and The Faithful would overtake them if they slowed.
Liam Laca wasn't at all fucking pleased about the fact that the squirrel not only had some kind of blade to slice into the hull of their ship, but also was able to teleport and turn invisible. But then again, Liam wasn't used to these sorts of fights. He'd been used to his own homeland, and his brothers and sisters at Balestra. But despite severely underestimating Nykita, Nykita severely underestimated Liam and his own teleporting skills. The second Ny left the goat's sight he himself was a cloud of pitch black smoke, away from the line of the rum bottle and away from the kick that was delivered. Which sort of left Ny just standing on his dragon's head, or hovering over it with his foot in the air and a bottle of run sailing in front of his face and into the sea. Litterers am I right? Still Liam appeared a few feet off, once more above the dragon and aiming another into it's head. If he couldn't hit Ny directly, than maybe he could keep skewing him by aiming at his mount. Liam Laca teleported after the shot ran out though, switching to instead simply blinking rappidly from one point to another, all around the dragon, building up a small hazy smoke around them. He could do that for hours honestly, it was taking people with him that hurt him. But such a small distance and only himself? Easy as breathing, especially given that he'd been doing it longer than he could walk.
Windthor Pryas grunted. Fuck, he was mildly out of his league with teleporters. Not to mention, rum throwers. Why would you do that!? The hybrid leaped off the dragon, though his legs weren't quite as strong as he'd hoped they'd ahve been. still, he was able to get enough distance to use his large wings, useless for flying, to glide back to the faithful. Hopefully without too much trouble. Upon landing on the deck, he stumbled and nearly fell, but straightened up a moment later. Liam could handle it. However, he looked over to the shore, brow furrowing. Well, he knew the Faithful would be fine. But the Harbinger might need to buff out some scratches later.
Jayce Ithil saw the shadowy forms of the two ships fighting in the water of the bay, approaching and not weighing anchors to slow, or signals to make port. Sensing the danger the fox grabs his badge and holds it out, staring at it while running for the tavern doors!
Ingrid Brandt had successfully set their helm on fire, so Harbinger wasn't making any more course changes as she sailed or steamed towards the dock. Well. She could probably have a secondary wheel below somewhere, a lot of ships do. But the possible person down near the rudder probably wasn't getting any new orders, since the cargo hatch and foredeck where the only ones not aflame. She pauses for a moment, considering launching mortars again, but remembers the civilians below decks, and thinks better of it. She didn't want to turn Harbinger's internal wooden structure into a fiery inescapable coffin. She catches her breath from being tossed sideways by air pressure earlier, and looks up to the dragon fight, and over to the... quickly approaching city lights. "Verdammt." she curses under her breath, and peaks back up over her cover at the ironclad whose back half was looking more and more like an inferno. So, once again, the feminine, German-accented voice would come up on the horn "Harbinger! Brace for impact and egress your ship! You! Are! On Fire!" still using the horn so that the Harbinger can hear the order she gives, "All batteries cease fire, small arms return fire only!" she looks to the city again, "Und brace for impact, too! Gott Verdammt!!!" and she tries to find something that will act as both cover and hold, not knowing that Zel might have any tricks up his sleeve with the ships maneuverability.
Pip Halsey eyes widened at the warning from Jayce. "Wha?... Wh... " He shook his head, seeing Athenia run out of the bar. He dropped his mug to the floor himself, and hurried out. Already in a bit daze, he followed her drunkenly to the... Harbor? Why where they moving TOWARD the flaming ships?
Yaelth is totes thrown from the ship during impact and probs seriously injured or something!
Jayce Ithil would have grabbed Atheria and pip before they could exit the west doors. "Where are you going fools! To the east toward the forest, go!" He forcefully commands while trying not to be physically rough.
Atheria Blackwind stumbles out towards the docks the mead bottles clutched in her arms and she stares wide eyed. "Well ain't tha' ah' thing Pip?" she whistles. "Oh calm down darlin'." she says to Jayce. "Reckon th' ships are far 'nuff away ain't gon' hurt t' have ah' look." She was so drunk how was she to judge the distance?
Pip Halsey was ready to rush out towards the forest, but froze to watch the ships, his eyes wide. "Those ships are on fire... Why are they on fire? What's going on?" He asked, backing away a bit.
Nykita Aymen found himself in a freefall as Raykit was steadily plummeting down to the ground, no doubt arms crossed over his chest and face with some of the bolts having the unfortunate chance of encountering the armor he wore around his forearms and chest but his shoulder, biceps and paws themselves were going to have a bolt sticking out of them as the squirrel used his abilities to blow the shots going for Raykit as the dragon made his descent and it only took about three bolts to pierce him, in the shoulder, bicep and his other shoulder, for the squirrel to show Liam his other trick in the form of an explosive burst of crimson flames erupting from his figure in an effort to ward away Liam and not injure his comrade too much at the same time. And then... as one would see in most comic books, KRA-KOOOOOOOOM! The sound of thick pillars of wood snapping like tooth-picks under the impact of the heavy ice-breaker going at full speed, a spectable that would have probably drawn in and woken all of the neighbours, bathing the area in bright light from the fires on the deck, shortly before destroying the fuck out of! The ice-breaking hull of the Harbinger crashed through the docks and then caught into the ground, the force from their full-speed uh.. docking made them shirt swing to the left, the entire length the ship them swung in to crush the structure of the docks as it beached itself, rolling heavily onto it's side and spilling some of those liquid flames over onto the streets. Seeing that, getting back to the ship was going to be Nykita main priority... that and dodging crossbow bolts enough to make them hit a non-vital area.
In the dead of the night the docks were alit by commotion from the guard and the reflection of flames from the firey ironclad ship The Harbinger as it barrelled towards the docks with no sign of stopping, pursued by House Balestra flag ship The Faithful. With little time to react the heavy ship would smash violently in to the dock, shattering the wood and destroying the riggings. The pursuing vessel would not suffer the same fate, an odd whirring and the touch of magic deep in the ship's core coincided with the sails leaning back, becoming more aerodynamic as the ship suddenly rose from the water with a heavy splash. Trailing ocean water like rain over the docks as it flew up and over the destruction below it, coming to a stop some ways up and above the crashed ship.
Sofey Eristis was on fire! Oh, by the Gods, she was on fire!! Sofey had been surrounded by Napalm on the Helm of the Harbinger! A small shriek of pain was heard from the Pirate Captain was ablaze in a hail of warfare and sea-faring battles! Flames licked at her feet, burned at her hands, and practically ate through the heavy-leather duster she was wearing on her backside! Angry growls stole the serval's attention as she aimed to do one thing: offer payback to Ingrid. Amidst the flames, amidst the pain, Sofey was going to answer back and... KABOOM! The Harbinger "docked" against the heavy shores of Eileadora's wood and ground structure. No time to react, Sofey would be seen flying through the air and into, subsequently THROUGH the wall of the Tavern; heaps of stone, piled mess, and floating dust were left as the serval went missing for a moment. [Stone Skin]
Pip Halsey saw the ship about the crash into the docks. "Oh fuck this!" He said, turning right around, and heading back into the tavern he just came out of. At least the tavern seemed to not have been directly hit. Should have stayed in there. An idea than came to the thieving mouse. Was going to be a lot of people fleeing. Might as well take advantage of the chaos... And help himself to a few valuables. He grinned, looked around, and began to search the tavern.
(01:20:08) Epitome arrived on scene, mingling with the other guards. That is all for this public service announcement.
Atheria Blackwind squinted at the barreling ship and popped open one of the bottles of mead. Setting it in her beak she tilted her head back and drank deep , might as well not feel this. She stepped back as far as she could, hitting the wall and pressing against it. Too real. She drank more, sitting on the ground and whelp, there goes a squirrel through the tavern wall. Was it a squirrel. "Oh sugah ain't enough mead in th' world fer this." PTSD sinking in real quick.
The Faithful came to life in an entirely different fashion as the sales leaned back and the levistone at it's core roared to life. Lifting up and out of the water with a wet splash it'd trail ocean water like rain over the docks before it was able to come to a full stop. Quick strides carried the knight towards the railing of the ship and rope was tossed over. "Windthor you have the deck, Ingrid I want those gunnery crews keeping an eye out" and with that, he hopped the railing. Sliding down the rope as red cape flaired behind him, coming to what was left of the dock with a crash. Turning towards the gathered guardsmen he would toss them a badge, a little trinket given to him by Firepaw. "With power given to me by Den Fa and the Local Monarchy on this island I hereby exercise warrants, both foreign and domestic, on Nykita Aymen captain of the Harbinger and the entirety of her crew." "On acts of piracy, raiding, terrorism, thirty counts of murder and torture, and the destruction of Eileadoran property" there was a brief pause after he spoke out towards the guards, before he'd give an expectant "Well?" clearly the knight intended for them to help as paw fell to his hip to rest on the grip of one of his blades.
Liam Laca backed off when his skin got hit with that blast of fire. Fuck how many things did this guy have going for him exactly?! Whatever the case, his newly blistered and flame kissed skin would be enough to get him to to leave Ny alone from that point forward. He teleported his own wooly bum back to the faithful just as it was starting to take on air and pull itself into the sky. He took his post next to Zelanze and glared back "Shit them suckers are something else for sure. They aint interested in talkin or nothing" He laughed a bit "Nah but that Ny fella, his ass can teleport too, and he got some kinda fire blast and some invisibility shit and some kinda magic sword. Aint someone I can really go toe to toe with outright.." He watched the ship below careen into the docks and winced. "Shit Zel. I mean, I don't think we're gonna get no kinda christmas dinner invites from these folks any time soon."
Liam Laca watched Ny for a moment, unsure still what to do with all of this. The slaves should be let free, but the crew should answer for the crimes of their slaughter. "Were yall expecting this to play out this way Zelanze..." god Liam wished it hadn't. There wasn't, in his mind, a point for that kinda of carnage. But he shut his mouth up right quick when Zelanze issued his commands. At the very least, this was as peaceful of an end as he would get.
Pip Halsey hurried upstairs in the inn to take advantage of the chaos. He went into one of the rooms, yanked a pillow off the bed, took off the pillow case, and began to fill the pillow case with anything of value he could find. Going to room to room, putting more stuff into the sack. He really needed a good break, and that ship crashing into the harbor might have been it. Ale wasn't cheap, after all. He glanced out the window at the chaos outside. Glad he wasn't apart of that!
Ingrid Brandt only gave them five chances to surrender, and specifically aimed for weapons and control points on the ship, she can't help that fire is fire! She also can't help suddenly feeling like something's... off. She clings with arms and legs to a particularly sturdy post in the brace for impact, but the impact doesn't come, and she feels very suddenly like she's floating. Were they sinking? That quickly? Did they run aground much more softly than she thought? She looks around, and sees the starry night sky, but no harbinger, and no city lights. With the hull of Faithful suspended in the air, the previously commanding voice seems to shout down from above, sans-amplification this time, "What the fuck!?" apparently not having known the ship could fly. Once she's given the order by Zel she turns to the mercenary gunners, "Alle! Nicht schiessen!" which, you know, is "hold fire" or "don't shoot" but might sound different to the common ear. She's quickly down the rope as well, rifle on her back as she immediately surveys the situation and shouts back up to the ship, "Feuerwehr!" and the portion of the crew that had been dousing the decks on Faithful descends on rope ladders and goes right to trying to help with the crashed Harbinger. Ingrid and her mercs going right to work trying to get the refugees and any wounded away from the fire.
Ly'Tillius Elmitore appeared. Just like that! Nothing fancy or special... just a robed figure off to the side of the Chaotic mess that was now the destroyed docks. Tillius observed the Harbinger, its reinforced hull having been run ashore and grounded, nay, embedded into the Docks. A look made to the floating Faithful; ah... an Airship! A small look made to the commanding Zelanze, yet not movements to acquiesce to his requests were made! Tillius just stood off to the side, focused on preventing the Docks from becoming a flaming remnant of soot and ash considering that infamous pirate ship was on fire, and apparently not stopping. A look was made to the badge in his left hand; pentagram charm was seen hovering around him. He specifically had no NPCs assigned to him, and so the Wizard was unable to order anyone around! Silent Mage was Silent. [Douse 1/4]
Alhsom is the unfortunate person who catches the badge. "...Yeah, this aint one of our badges." He'd go to pass that off to Epitome before he goes to get to work on rounding up anyone trying to run off with the assistance of the currently present NPC guards. "Arrest 'em all, sort tha shite out later when Den's around. Aint no way ta prove what they say til then." And then he's off to work rounding up anyone who tries to run away...
Jayce Ithil looks to his badge and stands there quietly, from all points in the city available personnel would begin to descend on the docks and surrounding districts to throw up an armed cordon.
Epitome lifted her head. When addressed by Zalanze. "As my associate here states, this is not our badge, and every single one of you is in violation of the law. As I have seen no official paperwork on the Harbinger and her crew, so what I can judge is what I see now." She raised her voice. "Everyone of both ships are to be arrested and contained, until matters can be resolved with The Master of Laws, when he becomes available!"
Atheria Blackwind really wishes she had wings. She really does. With mead clutched to her chest she would make to run around the side of the tavern and out. Hopefully before anyone sees her. Was she glowing. Oh yeah, she was glowing. Scrawwww
Nykita Aymen breathed heavily, having a few crossbow bolts still sticking out of his body that he seemed to ignore even as they added a steady amount of red to his colour scheme, having landed on the ground close to where the Harbinger had occupied the docks or rather where the docks used to be, "Dakota! Ein!" He'd call out to the pair - his wife and the man he had given orders to keep safe the refugees, needing to snap the shafts of some of the bolds since they were getting in his way as he climbed onto the burning deck, glancing up as the Faithful took flight over them - fucking figures, it was an airship too! Does not matter though, they were in Eileadora. All the crew that were there and able to function were immediately put forth to containing the flame and helping the trapped and probably injured people inside, Ein being among them while Dakota and Nykita would be outside helping them out. With the Eileadora Guards already on the scene, he had no intention of fighting them and any such act.
Nocturnal Aymen stood up, just about the same time the ship came to a stop, destroying the docks of the city, and goodness only knew what else.... She'd shake her head softly as the power that was exerted to protect the shop from the impact.. as much as possible, was heavy, and the woman felt tired. Gaea, the vines that covered the ship, protecting it in a shell of plant matter, seemed to relax when the ship stilled.. though she didn't exactly release her hold. Gaea, was on the defensive.. the vines didn't reach out towards those that approached, but she seemed very much on guard.. as much as a carnivious plant could be, anyhow. The hybrid made her way top deck, refugees following with, guiding them, helping them down with Ein's direction, and her husbands. Not taking mind, or care to those around her. Lives, first.
Zelanze Balestra would give a deep sigh, before a sort of snicker at Liam's comment "It seems like most of our plans end with pretty explosive results. We can help rebuild the docks, but for now we need to make su-" and then people were going on about arrests and nonsense. The knight would look about for a moment, considering the situation before giving a deep sigh "Liam, get the civilians we saw on the enemy ship out and safe. Don't teleport them out, I know you're strained, just work with relief efforts" and with that, he'd turn on his heel and step towards the guard pair; reaching in to his pack and removing several documents to literally shove them in the face of the first woman who spoke. "Here is the Queen's order that we can patrol and take action on the fugitive ship. Here is the signed documentation from Nykita. Here is the foreign draft of Nykita's arrest warrant. You'll find, now that the Harbinger is on dock, Den should unseal the local arrest warrant."
Zelanze Balestra had dealt with all of this before, "a knight without a king" was a huge legal issue as it already was. "I'll go with you to lockout, but my crew remains safe and untouched on the ship. Den should relieve the situation when he can" and with that, he would take a step back and turn on his heel "If you'll excuse me, first I have a man to arrest myself. Then i'll go with you" simple as, and if they wanted to draw steel over dumb nonsense the only thing the guard would accomplish is pointless injuries as the knight would stride towards the squirrel. "Nykita Aymen, you are Under Arrest. My crew and local guard can handle relief efforts, quarter will be given. Submit yourself calmly and safely."
Einlander Saric was kneeling over a fallen refugee, tending to their wounds by applying a numbing poultice. For the most part Ein had did what he was ordered. Using his abilities to manipulate the mana within the ship, he bound each and every person to a safe part of the ship, alas even through it all, the sheer shockwave of hitting the ship caused injuries, but most if not all of his charges were fit to move. Helping the injured refugee up Ein heared the call of his captain and retrieved his staff, a rather simple looking weapon no more than a meter and a half in length made of blackened metal. As Ein ushered his charges up from the bowels of the ship he noted the damge and fires around. He saw Dakota and through the chaos lead her and her charges along with his towards the nearest safe exit, though he knew that none of them were out of the woods yet. Aside from the staff, he seemed harmless enough. When the last of the refugees were out, he waited for Dakota and his captain.
Sofey Eristis came out from the hole in the wall her body had made by crashing through it! Sofey was just dusting herself off, almost like nothing had happened. Flames had kissed her arms, and tarnished some of her clothing, destroyed her favorite duster, which she had to take off to put out the rest of the flames and was now left in the Tavern, though the Pirate emerged relatively unscathed. How'd the serval-hybrid do it? It was like nothing had harmed her in that whole process of her body breaking down a stone wall! She was stomping angrily across the docks, moving through the mess of people to approach Zelanze. "By the power vested'en me by the fuckin' Sea Goddess'erself... I hereby offer me fist teh ye fuckin' face!" screamed the serval, who then proceeded to swing a heavy haymaker right at Zelanze in a angry, wind-up-and-throw-everything punch as he turned to try and arrest Nykita.
Pip Halsey took another peek out of the window. Arrest warrents were being thrown around now. That was his hint to get out of there. He threw the sack of illgotten goods over his shoulders, and headed downstairs. He jumped over the bar, grabbed a few good bottles of alcohol for good measure, and than headed down the secret passage he knew led to the gambling den, and the sewers. Using the tunnels to make his escape.
Ingrid Brandt was coordinating with Harbinger's crew to get the civilians out, she didn't care to turn around and look at the guards, who she considered tertiary. If anything, she'd find it odd that the local civil servants weren't helping put out the fire or help the shaken refugees, so much as they were forming a cordon. But, security is security, she supposes. In any case, she makes zero threatening gestures, doesn't go for her gun(s) or knife, and is wholly concerned on evacuating the ships and then working with her guys to smother the oil fire.
Ly'Tillius Elmitore continued to stand off to the side. This was all a mess... Arguments on who was in charge, what order was in jurisdiction, who was doing what, when to do... the Guards were running with chatter, too. Tillius was looking at his Badge the whole time this was going on, held in his left hand. Around him, that Pentagram Charm was swirling and twirling. Behind Tillius, a small pillar of water had started to be formed, rising up into the sky, fed from the Sea, itself! An infinite source of water to combat those flames that weren't going out easily! Still silent, still observing. [Douse 2/4]
Alhsom gets the paperwork shoved in his face. Stares at it for a moment and considers tossing the lot of it into the sea because, fuckin' rude, mate. Al tucks them away for later, "Yeah. I don't rightly give a damn. Chiefs say take everyone in, everyone fuckin' gets taken in. Don't give two shits what ya say til tha ones in charge say ta do otherwise." While Al is dealing with the rude fox, the NPC guards have been and will continue to do their job of evacuating and rounding folks up... Which has been posted more than once, also, Tillius is working on a spell to help put out the water, so theres that. Then new orders come in, "Right. The flying assholes get taken ta the barracks, the other assholes go to the dungeon." And thats what the NPCs sent by the other guards are handling.
Zelanze Balestra would stop dead when Sofey stepped out and telegraphed such a huge hook. The knight may not have the super strength to lift cannons, but he was a coordinated fighter. Right arm lifted to knock her strike downwards in a physical parry, before attempting to pull her arms behind her back and bind them. Hopefully, with the help of the local guard. They wanted to arrest him too? There was a brief pause, a consideration, a thought. However, with the legal upperhand resisting an incompetent guard would be equally incompetent, so he'd just sigh. He wouldn't submit until Nykita was under arrest as well, but he would submit. Liam and Ingrid were doing relief effort, so hopefully the bumbling city guard at least had the sense to wait, or even help, save the lives of the innocents before arresting his crew. As for The Faithful? It would leave. Without either the readied ships or manpower to pursue it, it would leave off dock and await Den Fa's arrival before returning.
Nykita Aymen pried apart a hatch at the other end of the Harbinger where the fight had not spread entirely to, calling inside for Ein to be able to lead the survivors through the tipped insides of the ship and help them climb out while others could probably use the cannon windows to get out of the ship where Dakota to help them to settle on the ground and probably look over their wounds, no doubt some of the more... assertive of their crew would form a cordon even against the gathering guards, whom would have to deal with the thick vines that seemed to form right out of the hull of the burning ship, hissing and striking at those that came too close to the hull that were not of the crew. The squirrel would then use his own fire abilities to to suffocate the flames spreading, forming his own to blanket the oil patches. It was when his name was called out by this fox that he'd finally turn to face his nemesis, locking eyes with the knight and immediately letting him know how much hate there was for him, quickly moving to intercept the map before he could get too close, "You will not acquire more people to send to that island, slaver." The squirrel spat, wanting to say more only to have Sofey fling herself into the scene and throw a puch at the fox and CLAP! Her fist smacked into something, which was his injured paw as the squirrel held her back, "No! He is mine." The squirrel snarled towards the serval, claiming ownership of being the one to strike Zel first. As for the guards? Well, there would be a moment of stand-off between them before Nykita called back, "Dakota, are they all accounted for and safe?" And should she reply that they were, then the squirrel would gesture for the rest of his crew to cease resisting, "Come, let us have some rest before I talk to my sister about this."
Sofey Eristis had her attacked deterred by the Captain Aymen, and thus she'd not end up in a lock with Zelanze. "Fuck, Cap'n! He ran'es 'ground'en..." Sofey started to say, before she stared over at Ingrid. A look was made to the squirrel for a moment, and exasperated Fiiiiine seemed to be rendered with her face deflating a little, and the serval stared over at Ingrid. "Oi! Ye the shit who destroyed me favor'it coat! Come'ere'n let the Cap'n show ye some love..." Sofey said as she now started to stomp over towards Ingrid. If the Captains were to battle, so would the First Mates! Sofey wasn't even sure if Ingrid was the first mate, or not, but it made sense in her distorted head as she started to anger-stomp over to Ingrid while the Guards continued to argue on who had the biggest cock and could use it the best.
Amena Britta arrived on the scene to make sure all NPC guards and non npc guards were doing what they needed to do, and to lend an extra hand if needed. She found something to stand on first, Amena's short and all, this way she could glance over heads and find familiar faces. She looked over her guards, noting wounded, and guards weren't likely to attack anyone who didn't have a weapon, especially if they were willing to come along quietly to the dungeon. Not at all bumbly. "Oi," shouted, to announce her arrival.
Zelanze Balestra had already submitted to arrest, assumedly alongside Sofey, so if Nyk wanted to fight all the guards apparently in the city to throw a hook he could. The knight gave a long, deep sigh. The feeling of air exiting him brinding his heart rate down and calming him. Dealing with the local authorities was part of it, and he mostly ignored Nykita's attitude. "Your refugees will be relocated and given relief. Nobody plans to take anyone anywhere, the slave trade is not legal on this continent" simple as. "You'll stand trial for the two existing warrants you have, and I shall be there to prosecute you after Den clears us in the morning" explained as he straightened his back. Going so far as to motion towards the knife in his boot, and other possible armaments. "Liam, Ingrid, finish relief efforts if possible then submit to authorities" A mess of a finale, but between blowing up mountains and smashing in to dragons it seemed like they never did things low key.
Liam Laca decided to blink down and stand in next to Zelanze. He was there in time to hear Nykita call him a slaver, and that, that finally got a rise out of Liam. His tail snapped and his ears went back, those eyes turned into slits and he sneered at the fuzzball in front of him. He didn't reach for his weapons or even raise a fist, but he did defend his mentor's honor, or at least what he knew of it. "Zelanze and house Balestra aint no slavers. Dunno what information you're gettin here bucko but that aint the right shit. Now I aint gonna say that what was gonna happen to them folks was good, and I sure as hell am glad they get to be running free and doing as they please for sure. But I also know them men and woman you SLAUGHTERED and GUTTED like PIGS sure as FUCK didn't deserve that kinda shit. THey was just doing their jobs. Kinda like how we're just doin` hours. They had lives, families, yall aint get to make the call if they live or die." Liam Laca huffed and crossed his arms "Zelanze if yall don't mind, I'd like to stick with ya. See how this shit all plays out. I don't feel right not knowin.."
Alhsom continues to go about his task of rounding folks up, cordoning them off where they wont get hurt and arresting fucking everyone at this point with the gaggle of NPC guards. "OI. The lotta ya can shut tha fuck up. Guard Captain Britta is here. So shut tha fuck up an' do what she says."
Ingrid Brandt was helping the refugees, the ones who had the strenght to walk to the tavern, even taking them from the guidance of Ein and Nyk, four other Kiel-looking mercenary sailors using wet blankets to smother where oil had spread. She didn't do much shouting, not sure if someone would point a pistol in her face upon reocgnizing her as the commanding voice from earlier. But if anything, she a code of hono-ah what the hell is that? the pillar of water forming gets the fox a little nervous. She's not overly tall, but she does bounce rather frantically and wave her arms, "Hey! Hey! It's oil fire!" she shouts, "Don't spread it! Mist it at most!" and she looks over to see the guard captain shout "Oi!" only to catch Sofey out of the corner of her eye. She keeps her hands up, only stops bouncing, "Ahhh, waitwaitwait, we're helping! Fightings over!" and.. she didn't mean to be rude, but she didn't really respond to people telling her to shut up and look away from the fire while her trained team was fighting it.
Einlander Saric stood protectively between Dakota, the refugees and any would be guards that attempted to come towards his charges, that is until the ship offered its own form of protection by way of hungry vine like barriers. Ein allowed some of the refugees to go with Ingrid sensing her own bit of honor and that she would not harm them. Seeing Dakota had the healing under control, Ein sought to empower the ship and keep Gaea stable seeing as she was exerting a considerable amount of energy and mana. Blackened staff stabbed into one of the vines as Ein began to focus and channel his own essence into the ship to keep it going. The fires seemed to be under control, he wasnt needed at the moment, though at the drop of a coin he could spring to action if ordered. Silver eyes glanced over to Dakota, then to his captain and first mate and finally to the refugees, taking note of where each and every person was and what they were doing.
Ly'Tillius Elmitore still stands off to the side, spell-prepping and what-not! "Oil? I can push it all out to sea and let the remnants of alchemical fire burn off in a place it won't be a risk to the crews and captives, nor the remnants of the Dock. Even if the two elements do not mix, I can carry oil out in a practical vortex of water." Why did nobody trust his magic? It was said in a monotone as a literal Water Serpent had started to form behind him! Made of nothing but pure sea-water, the 'swimming creature' had started to come to formation as the Wizard's spell was almost complete! [Douse 3/4]
Nykita Aymen had to stand there and face the man who had attacked him, bleeding to the point where his jacket was soaked nicely with his blood from the bolts that the goat-boy stuck into him, which also left his right paw useless but he refused to budge even if there was some dizzyness in his head, standing straight and defiant, "SOFEY!" He roared without even taking his eyes of the fox, "Enough!" There was no more fighting to be had now, they were in Eileadora. "Prosecute me? You hold no authority over me, slaver." The squirrel smirked through his hate of the man only for that goat to appear again and get in his face, something that seemed to almost surprise the squirrel as his tufted ears perked for a moment before folding back, head lifting slightly as if putting himself above the lad, "You stand with the House that prides itself in being the saviours of Guildereim.... the island where victims are shipped to every day to have their lives destroyed and the control of their very lives be stripped from them... Guildereim prides itself in being effective in destroying the lives of the people that get sent there, to rape them of their sovereignty. And you helped save all that." He'd mutter darkly before the voice of Amena, in some crazy messed up twist of character roles, was the voice of reason and order, had him look away from Liam and towards her instead.
Nocturnal Aymen didn't rise, instead, she continued, quietly humming to herself. The hybrid wasn't 'innocent' in anything, and she meant.. anything. But right now, her work was before her, and nothing, short of being physically grabbed, and hauled away from those that were injurd, would stop her. Nyks voice brought her ears to flicker, and her muzzle lifted, she watched him for a long moment.. biting back a smile. Long, lenghty tail deftly moved to curl about her hips nad legs. Humming all the while bleeding was stopped and pains relaxed, and calmed. The woman, was quite intent.
Liam Laca looked straight into Nykita's eyes and held him there. He wasn't at all intimidated by the rodent, and he wasn't about to back down now. "Man yall don't know shit `bout nothin do you? My parents were slaves, my father died as a slave, and the ma who raised me was a slave. My grandpa was a slave, and I by all rights should be rotten away in them pens too. Zelanze gave me protection under his house you fuckin CLOD." He spat "An as far as helpin Guildereim, yall KNOW that the draconic leaders who were gonna take it over, they was willing to kill and maim slaves? Yall know Guildereim has laws AGAINST that right? And they were gonna tear that shit down right? Or how about when we done did in that ice-dragon, the one who was gonna kill EVERYONE regardless of if they believed in the freedom of slaves or even partook in that shit?! Nah cause yall had your own ideas and your head too far up your poop shoot to look at the other side of the story." Liam Laca got in even closer to Ny's face, disregarding personal space and the lack of height he had on the male "I am GLAD you freed those slaves, I never wanna see someone behind bars after the GENERATIONS my blood has been through. But I don't think for a second yall had the right to torture people just tryin to do their job running a fuckin boat. You wanna disembowel someone and hang em up on a mast? Do it to someone you know OWNS slaves huh?"
Amena Britta notes that guards would only become agressive if those resisting became aggressive, and had no intention of not letting anyone be treated that needed treating. Refugees could be questioned later and were let through, but guards were under orders to take those in charge of each ship under custody. Amena let Tilly do his magic thing, eyes soared over Sofey and landed on Nyk. She huffed. "S'late e'eryone. Guards will take yeh tae de dungeon 'n capt'ns 'n wotnot cin 'ave a talk wi' Den Fa in de mornin'. If y'resist, ye'll git a nice warm bed in de dungeons, too." Liam's outburst caught her attention. She nodded to a guard. "Calm yerself, 'n back off now. Y'cin report any ov yer problems tae me latah."
Sofey Eristis stopped in her tracks as Nykita boomed her name out. Sofey stared down Ingrid for a moment, tilting her head to the side as she took in the features of the Vixen. Oddly attractive, though the serval just scowled and stood there for a moment. "Fuck, Cap'n! I ain't even thrown'eh damn punch teh these fucks'en they attacked the crew! The ship! Ye fuckin' bleedin' heart refugees! Ye gonna jus' stand'ere'en let'em take'es..!?" Sofey screamed over at him, angry and upset... until she saw Amena. "Can ye promise'eh nice swift punch'en the face fer disobeyin' ye, 'Mena?" she said with a notably large grin on her face.
Liam Laca ear flitted over towards Amena and watched them for a bit. He didn't have any quarrel with her but he also knew he was causing a scene. Still he backed up a pace from Nykita and lifted his hands in the air. "Fair enough. I'm followin Zelanze though. I am his squire and I don't plan on bailin on him." He shot a glare back at Ny "Despite the rumors yall got goin for him." He'd keep his mouth shut after that and simply followed after Zelanze. Anything Ny had to say to Liam would have to be delivered to his bum.
Ingrid Brandt seems to remain unpunched, and so she just smiles nervously. One of her more military looking mercs gives her a look and she makes a hand signal at him, too. She doesn't imagine they'll be in trouble at all. She's pretty ignorant of what's going on, actually, and was hired on, but her guys are totally clueless of the circumstances - and one of them got shot by a crossbow bolt, poor guys. He's still on Faithful, though. Ingrid just remains standing in front of Sofey, grinning nerbously and looking unimposing, despite having her weapons. She assumes it's wrap-up time, so she just... gets arrested.
Amena Britta nodded to the guard that was keeping an eye on Liam. He'd go to the barracks then, which was going to be heavilly guarded, while everyone on Nyk's end went to jail jail, seperate cells if there were enough. Long ears flicked towards Sofey, who Amena looked up and down. "Aye, 'at Oi cin." She stayed up high so she could sort of look down on everyone! So long as everyone cooperates and goes to their appropriate holding cell, all should be well.
Sofey Eristis would be shuffled off by some NPC Guard, that Sofey totally made flinch when she put her arms out to the side like she was going to lunge at him! There was a sneer, followed by the heartiest of laughs from the Pirate. "Still get ye knife, 'Mena... Ain't never lef' me," she'd say up to the Britta as she willfully walked to her own incarceration, most certainly trying to avoid the chains by being compliant. Sofey hated chains... Arrested right upon returning to the City? How epic was this Pirate Captain to earn such an embrace from the City!? Oh, how she'd love the stories on this one in the future!
Ly'Tillius Elmitore has his magic fade, because, well... the overwhelming contradiction to his idea is just too much to deny! It wasn't the Balance... plus, the Elf probably wasn't needed anymore now that the Rains were approaching overtop of them! It was just the Wizard's intent to help! The Sea Serpent of Sea Water behind the robed Wizard would just fail to come to fruition; the salty power-creature just kind of fell back to the Sea, as if it had never been. "How would you stop oil from burning..?" Tillius spoke out loud to himself, really. Mentally, the Elf was checking his spell book as he tried to think about a solution. Was it Earth? The one Element that had avoided him? "Oh, Captain! I had a question for you, if I might accompany you back to the Barracks?"
Moderators: Nocturnal Aymen (played by PaganSpirit) Sofey Eristis (played by Lionheart) Nykita Aymen (played by Nykita)