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Gorax was clearly upset as he sat on his throne, a chair made of steel, lined with gold, and had diamonds on the ends of the armrests. "Bring the  sea otter forwards.."

The guards pulled forwards a fierce looking sea otter, the sea otter had been a slave most of his life.He glared and showed no fear at the wolverine and spoke in an icy cold voice "Ya scum...ya killed me father,me mother...took me and me friends as slaves, ya need nothing but death Gorax!"

Gorax was a tall, strong wolverine..taller than most of his spices and his species was rare anymore.His fur a dark brownish-black in color with bits of silver, he may of been old but he was still very deadly."You tried to escape, you killed two of my guards, give me a reason you should still be alive in front of me?" His voice was raspy and gruff,he had a nasty scar on his throat that never healed correctly. His eyes an eerie yellowish-green, with bits of red as well.He had gold rings in both his short ears and his  outfit was made of pure silk,a light purple color,a cape made of otter fur."Of course...I lsain those I don't need, young ones work so much better, their wills broken so easily."

The wolverine, as well as the sea otter, remembered the day the ship,The Crimson Tide, came to his small island tribe....killed all the otters but te young ones, he and his friends...10 in total. He and 2 others is all that lived now and even then he was a terror...a fighter, son of the skipper of the tribe he was.

The sea otter glared death at the wolverine"You have no right ta live ya scum!This island use ta be home to seals, even a tribe of hamsters and you took it over!"

Gorax smirked, "This island use to belong to Gabool the Wild and his vermin, he was a fool to lose it to the likes of..."He makes a face of disgust "Woodlanders...this island belongs to those better suited...vermin or more so.."He grins "Me"

The sea otter looked ready to attack, so many times he had not but this, oh this time he lunged for the wolverine!

The two guards we on the otter before he had a chance to fully reach him, but one guard scream in terror as the otter sank his teeth into his neck and the other guard let go of the otter in shock and backed away paling in pure terror. The otter then jumped onto the wolverine.

Gorax eyes widen, the otter managed to sink his teeth into Gorax arm, the wolverine slammed the otter into the floor once...twice....and the otter was unconscious after the 3nd time. The wolverine then took the sea otter and smirked as blood rushed down the wolverine's arm, he went to the area where a high cliff was, "How long can ya hold ya breath ...oh yes ya cant unconscious...can an otter breath under water"His eyes light up with cold icy smile  "Let's...seee" The sea otter was dropped and Gorax went to a slave, a hamster "You tend to my arm now slave"

The hamster shaking nodded and quickly tended to the wolverine's arm and backed away, he dared not leave till he was dismissed.

Gorax dismissed the hamster who quickly went back to work. The wolverine looked over his realm and smiled coldly, an old stone base, seasons upon seasons old stood, even better than before as he had 2 watch towers added, he keep the garden some hamsters had, simple veggies, and a couple of apple trees but enough for a tribe of hamsters. The hamsters had made a small, now old rubble, log building for a meeting, what he didn't know was that an old cave,now covered with weeds even more, was where the hamsters also stayed....a series of tunnels, more so was known by...other creatures......

The sea otter had woken shorted after he was sent to the sea. he was being tended to by...an old aged hamster, near him..seals, nowhere near the numbers of before but about 15  were left in a tribe that used to be 100. So..so many seals were slain over the past seasons since the wolverine had claimed this island as his home, his base and only recently he decided he wanted...more land, he just had yet to attempt it.

"Where....am I?" The sea otter asked as he sat up slowly.

The old aged hamster spoke "Safe...these are my friends, I will teach you their language." The old aged hamster seemed so old and so frail, how long had he been here was not known, but he seemed to not worry on his age as he slowly went to a rok shelf, he walked with a limp and a cane with feathers, colored ropes and stones...."Your...need ta be ready..."

The otter blinked "Read fer..wot?"

"For the ones to come....they will need you....."

Short but cute log!!

who:

Oz-baby badger cub

Xander- former warrior

Cole and Slaw-Twin hares of the Lp,Privates

Old Pete- Old Major, might be promoted soon

A random Healer Spoofed

LOG:
   
Xander is relaxing and managed to get some sleep. But he has woke at odd times, wondering if it was day or night at times.   

Well its sort of late, and voices.."Maybe he wants his daddy?" ..   

"We are gonna get into major trouble..." Chores of am not...are too... sounds, its Cole and Slaw and they have Oz, who is far from happy.
   
Xander looks over and frowns. he clears his voice"In here...wot time is it?" He is more awake now at least and its quiet so he is guessing its semi late.   

The two privates enter and look at the badger, Cole holds out Oz quietly   

Oz reaches out for Xander making some mumbling noises.   

Xander smiles, he reaches over carefully with his good paw, "Help me...sit up, please"He asjs the two hares.He smiles at Oz "Hey...visiting dada, I am glad your ok, seems me and you are gonna stay here for least a couple months"   

Oz yawns and babbles again, "dddddd........eeeeeeee....."He giggles and snuggles into Xander after he is in his arms, very happy now unlike earlier.   

Xander smiles, he looks between the hares "I am Xander Winters...and you two are?" He then smiles at Oz "Tring to speak...can you, mybe dadad...dada be a good word"   

Oz giggles and babbles again but he is tring his hardest to speak. He blinks at the door as Old Pete enters "Thar ya are...young rips...pardon me"He grabs one ear each of the two privates and they are draged off to...some horrible chore, likely the worse ever!   

Xander frowns, he decides he rather not know what fate awaits those hares,it looked fairly bad.He smiles at Oz "Say...dada...want to say dada for me?"He yawns he is tried, he needs sleep so he eraps his good arm around Oz.   

A healer looks over and starts to take the cub, Oz reaches to Xander and babbles again amd reaches "d....d...d...d...aaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!" The healer frowns "Its ok you can very well be here...."The healer frowns a bit

Xander sigsh and starst to sleep and opens his good eye looking at Oz and the healer,"Wait.....please" Did he hear something or maybe he is just out of it."Maybe a little while...slide another bed over?"   

The healer seems unsure and disappears with the cub, she returns with one of those bassinets they use, this is a large one usually for an older hare dibbun but fits the badger cub, "Here now he can be by you...see your dada can be close now"   

Xander smiles as he reaches his good paw into the bassinet and lets oz hold onto his finger as sleep start fight with Xander, he wants to stay awake but sleep is good and will likely win soon.   

Oz grips the fingers with his small ones and seems happy..." d...da......." babbles of coos....d...aaaaa, a small yawn,"Dada...da..da....."The cub ends up falling asleeep though.
   
Xander smiles "You said....dada..."He smiles again and lets sleep win,he has Oz beside him,all is good right now.

Things in Redwall have been quiet but also somewhat tense, after the initial assault on the abbey the rats besieging the place have attacked a few more times. Once during the night that very nearly succeeded in breaching the northern wall gate. Only the timely intervention of Log-a-Log's shrews and the Foremole managed to keep the gate from falling.   

Additionally no one has arrived at the abbey in days. The rats are patrolling the forest and have set up a large encampment out on the western plain, well out of bow range of anyone inside the abbey. There are hundreds of them and they are clearly setting up for a siege. Today though things are different, a platoon of about thirty rats have come out of the camp carrying a white flag tied to a sprig of mistletoe and Benar has ordered they be allowed to approach.   

A plank bridge has been set up across the ditch and now a palanquin is being carried forward being carried by mice! Three to either side carrying it toward the Abbey wall and seated atop it is a tall rat in the prime of his years. Dressed in flowing orange and yellow robes with golden blonde fur and red eyes and what can only be described as a crown perched atop his head.   

Leading the procession is a black rat carrying a staff and more guards. This is no rag-tag bunch of disparate chancers, this is an organized horde and as the palanquin is carried to a halt before the great western gates the black rat at the lead steps forwards and calls out in a loud voice.   

"Give heed beasts of Redwall Abbey, his Lordship, he who by the divine grace of those above us maintains the order of the world comes to parley with those who dwell within Redwall Abbey."
   
She looks along the ramparts, "Will you speak peacefully or is the vaunted peace of Redwall but an illusion?"   

Benar without hesitation steps forward, "We will parley with any who come to Redwall in peace and harmony... my Gatekeeper shall open the door and you may enter. But no weapons may pass through our gates, we shall meet in peace within the Great Hall of the Abbey."   
The Abbot then turns to Log-a-Log and Lily, "Let their leader in and that black rat who was doing the talking. Everyone else can wait outside... even the mice, we can't risk letting them inside."
   
LilyMoore frowns. "But, Abbot Benar....what about in the time of Matthias when Cluny used coming in to parley as a way to see the Abbey's defenses? Or when Chickenhound came back as Slagar the Cruel and tricked everybeast to steal the Dibbuns at that time?" She will open the gates if he insists, but she feels she must speak her concerns before she agrees with him. The Ferravalians are watching the surrounding woodlands uneasily. Virginia is beside the Abbot, waiting to see what happens before she calls her birds to act. She got a few reinforcements from Ferravale, but still not enough to make her feel comfortable defending the Abbey from such a huge horde.   

Adrian peers over the wall at the two rats, and the mice who are so clearly slaves. He doesn't hide his contempt, as he sneers down at the rat speaking. "Pahley? Fine words from a rat." He looks over at Benar, and likewise voices his opinion. "I agree wi' Lily, an' 'ighly recommend we refuse... But... t'is yahr decision, sah... An' mah hares will do wot we c'n t' watch these two vermin..."
   
Log-A-Log frowns, he seems worried as well, but at the abbey, well the abbot is in charge but he is going to keep a close eye on whom ever does enter.   

Gorvenalus comes up the ramparts and stays close to Benar, a glace at the rats and back to Benar, he speaks quietly "I will record what ever is aid if there is a talk"
   
Krisha is not on the wall top but in the abbey grounds watching from there to see what is going on, not ever beast needs on the walls.   

This is not the first time John has made his way back to the Redwall while the abbey-beasts have dealt with unwelcome visitors, nor will it probably be that last time. So the squirrel, rather stripped down than his normal gear, finds himself some two to three hundred yards north of the gate up the road having come from the various taverns in that direction (despite the general jumpiness of everyone in Mossflower). A crossbow is clearly slung over one shoulder and a sword is at his side, but beyond that he seems rather unprepared to see the mass of rats gathered around the abbey. His eyes go wide for a moment and he slowly and cautiously makes his way for a nearby tree, paw on the blade hilt.   

Gaheris hasn't slept much since the first attack and spent most of his time on the walls. Today was no exception but the white flag made him frown deeply and he was quick to voice his concerns with the others "Like 'ell 'e's 'ere for peace. They couldn't break in so they're bein' sneaky" he points at a couple of his otters and then at the rats out in the encampment and those below near the wall who came with their leader "Watch 'em closely. This is a trick if I ever seen one"   
   
Benar places a hand on Lily's shoulder, "I know the risks, but I will not deny an invitation of peace... I must trust on all of you to keep them in check and see to it that they cannot betray us whilst we parley."
   
He holds out one arm to Virginia, asking her to join him inside, the rooks guidance and wisdom has been a great comfort to Benar since she arrived to bolster their defenses. He has been seen over the past week or so talking with her often as she perches on the windowsill of his study.   

"We will parley..." Benar says firmly to Adrian, "Nor will I betray the charter, they say they come in peace. Thus I will meet them with everything the Hospitality of Redwall has at its disposal."
   
He looks from Log-a-Log to Lily to Adrian, "You are my three commanders, greet them at the gate and bring them to me... I have to prepare the Great Hall. Gorvenalus.... I will need you to record what is said." he hurries off down the steps before anyone else can try and argue with him.   

Luckily for John the rats are distracted and he is able to reach the trees to the north of the abbey as the black rat waits patiently. Her hair is bound up in a long, waist length braid that hangs from the left side of her head whilst the right side is clipped short. The otters and several abbey guard spread out onto the walls, whatever Benar's instructions the standard orders to flood the walls with defenders still stand and beasts are hurrying to their positions.   
   
LilyMoore still looks unsure, but she nods. "Okay. I'll still need to leave my sword out on that rack, right?" After receiving an answer, she heads down and opens the Main Gate, staring at the female rat, her multicoloured eyes hard. "You are required to let me thoroughly search you, both of you. Any weapons I find will be confiscated and returned to you only when you are leaving Redwall. If you offer any resistance, I shall close the gate in your faces." Hang what the Abbot says! Virginia will fly by the Abbot's side, the rook having taken it upon herself to make sure the leader of the Abbey is kept safe.

Adrian nods to the Abbot. Unlike LilyMoore, however, he will *not* so easily leave his rapier outside. We'll see how that goes... The descends the wallsteps and joins the mousemaid at the gate. After she addresses the rats, he adds, in a threatening manner, "An' if y' so much as lift a fingah... I'll be wearin' yahr innahds for mah gartahs... Undahstand? 'M sure you lot've 'eard o' th' bloomin' Long Patrol, wot... We got 50 fit 'n' fightin' ready 'ares here just ready f'r a bruisin', wot." He hopes his bluff sounds at least a *little* scary.   
Log-A-Log nods he listens to Benar and will quietly go to ...greet these guests, and he will stay very alert as he does so.
   
Gorvenalus goes to follow Benar as he speaks quietly to the abbot as they get to the great hall "I don't like this Benar, is this wise to do this?"   

Krisha frowns, she follows the abbot and recorder inside " Benar..wot is going on? Whos at the gate?" She is. concerned and curious as since she was in the grounds didnt see who at the gates.   

"Oi, y'there-" The hiss comes from a tall beech tree close to the wall, were John is trying his best to discreetly get the attention of the nearest abbey beasts atop the wall while everyone important seems distracted by the 'parley.' "Ah know this seems all suspicious an' th' like in terms o' th'timing, bu' Ah swear Ah'm no rat lover. Ah'm going t'jump onto th'wall now, so Ah'm asking y't' kindly please make sure no' t'stab me when Ah jump, alright?" The squirrel adds, after a moment or two of thinking, "Ah'd ask y't' be quick abou' letting me too, since Ah dunno' wan' t'get killed by rats today - or any day, really."   

Gaheris doesn't like it but this isn't the camp and a white flag was always going to be an invitation in to the abbey. He understands they have to do it or the abbey didn't work but that didn't mean the Skipper had to like it and nothing stopped vermin from taking advantage of it. The abbot's chosen who he wants with him and the Skipper remains on the wall, watching the group Lily's talking to carefully with his bow in his paws ready until he hears a little commotion along the wall and quickly moves to find out there's someone in a tree talking to them. Skipper's frown deepens again but if it's someone in trouble he can't really deny it "Aright, y'jump on over and we'll grab y'" he hisses back before muttering to one of the beasts next to him on the wall "Grab 'im once 'e's over" he's not trusting that this isn't a trap too.   
   
The rat eyes Lilymoore then glances at the figure on the palanquin, he gestures with one of his long lacquered claws. They shine with a bright blue radiance and she nods and turns back to Lily.
   
"His Lordship consents to myself and his august personage being searched, but we come in peace. By the Light and our hope for a higher name neither of us will violate your abbey's terms," she then gives Adrian a withering stare, "We know of the Long Patrol, Lord Ciocan's place in the order is quite clear and we have no quarrel with him."   

She then removes the dagger from the belt at her waist and hands it to one of the rat guards then turns to offer her hand to the golden furred rat as he steps down from the palanquin. He allows the two mice standing at the front of the palanquin to step up and adjust the fall and folds of his robes and then moves forward to permit Lily to run her search.   

Benar meanwhile hurries into the great hall where things are in motions, order members running back and forth, "I will explain everything soon, Gorve you will be on my left, Krisha my right, I do not have time to explain everything but you need to follow my lead."
   
The guards nod to the Skipper and move into place, ready to grab John once he hops across. He will be allowed inside but with things as hectic as they are right now the usual rules of hospitality are a bit suspended.   

LilyMoore glares, but says nothing. Once the rats are in position, she VERY thoroughly searches them, including in their shoes, the backs of their belts, and under their arms (there are daggers specifically designed to be hidden in your armpit, after all). She points to His Royal Ratness's paws. "Those look like they're intended to do some damage. You will let us wrap your claws up in strips of cloth so they can not scratch anyone." A nearby Ferravalian guard goes to help catch John, slyly offering a rope to the Skipper in a way that the squirrel can't see until he's actually on the wall.   

Seeing the guards movement, John rethinks his plan. "Oh well then. Ah'll be back later, Ah think. Ah see this is a bad time..." And with that, the squirrel disappears into the woods.
   
Adrian observes the search, his paw resting on the hilt of the rapier on his hip. He frowns at the rat's words. They know the Badger Lord's name. Not exactly uncommon knowledge, but vermin aren't always the most knowledgeable bunch. He narrows his eyes. "Mah hares will be watchin', regahdless..."   

Log-A-Log keeps an eye on the two rats, he is still quiet as he is afriad if he speaks he will get angery at seeing the rats and worse yet seeing them inside, he woke up in a bad mood today but he is still very much alert and will follow them a short distane once inside,unless he needs to stay outside the great hall,then he will do that.   

Gorvenalus frowns, but he nods "Yes Benar"He is good at remembering things and so will write this down quickly afterwards, it may be rude to write as they talk after all .   

Krisha nods and gets to where Benar mentioned and will stay by his side and see what this is all about, she will also stay alert.   

Gaheris starts to take the rope only for the squirrel to vanish instead. Th Skipper finds this suspicious and gives the rope back "Keep an eye out for 'em" in case they're changing tactics. One thing dealt with he quickly returns to the wall above the gate to check on the current situation again.

   
The black rats eyes open in affront as Lily suggests wrapping her lords hands but he raises one finger and she subsides and doesn't say anything. He then produces a pair of long, padded silk gloves, turning them this way and that to show they are entirely padded and would prevent their claws from being used as a weapon.
   
They then pull them and gesture and the black rat turns back to Lily looking affronted but obeying, "His Lordship asks if you will accept these gloves? If so we shall proceed and speak with your leader little mouse. I can see that he has left his most untrained servants to tend to the gate and comfort of guests."   

She would then fall back to stand a pace behind his lordship, the golden rat waiting quietly and politely for Dora and the others to lead the way. He looks at Adrian as he speaks but just quirks a brown then smiles softly. After that is just a matter of escorting their guests to the great hall but just before they head inside a messenger arrives from the Abbot asking the Skipper to send himself  to the great hall with the others. Whatever the abbot has in store he is ready and now it is just a matter of waiting for everyone to arrive.   
   
LilyMoore's eyes flash, but she keeps her anger in check with practiced skill. She instead holds out her paw. "Oh, sorry, I figured being careful and ensuring the safety of my friends was something all Gatekeepers did. Silly me. Still, since we're here, I'd like to make sure there are no daggers hidden in those gloves. I mean, since you've already attacked us, one can't be too cautious, no?" Once she ensures that either the rats aren't going to cooperate anymore, or that the gloves are empty (although they aren't any longer once he dons them, of course), she goes to lead the way to Great Hall, head held high with all the grace and confidence of a princess. She's also deeply angry and offended, but she is excelling at keeping herself in check. She had many dear friends teach her how to not let the Rage loose, she knows what she's doing.   

Adrian huffs, and starts to grip his rapier hilt, but he's a well-trained Patroller, so he doesn't draw the blade. Discipline is the name of the game. Besides, he's got 50 hares here under his command. He can remain as cool as a cucumber. With LilyMoore at the head, and the two rats in the middle, the hare pointedly takes up a position at the rear, a not-so-subtle warning against any surreptitious gestures or signals to rest of the rats remaining outside. He's watching the "king" like a hawk watches its prey.   

Log-A-Log stays somewhat close, he will be where he is needed.   
   
Krisha stays at the abbot Benar's side, waiting to see what is needed   

Gaheris is barely back to his spot on the wall before he gets summoned to the Great Hall. He's quick to head for the stairs but mutters a few words on his way "Watch 'em close. Any rats start sneakin' away from the group tell us. Make sure the other walls stay covered" he's quickly down and marches off to catch up with the other inside, watching the rats with Lily on his way. He hurries in to stand beside the group with the abbot and faces back to the door, waiting for the rats to get in.
   

The messenger who came to summon the Skipper also brought word that all weapons are ok for this trip to the great hall. This is a special occasion after all. The doors of the Great Hall start to swing open as Lily, Log-a-Log & Skipper lead their guests up the steps, it is perfectly timed and as they swing open they reveal a Great Hall that few would recognize.   

The tables are all gone and the entire order except those on the walls are standing in ranks on either side of the knave. They are standing in perfect lines in the gaps between the bright shining light beaming in through the stained glass windows to create a rather beautiful effect. Flanking the Abbots chair are Krisha and Gorvenalus and then a step back the entire council, everyone dressed in their best.   
At the far end of the hall sits Benar, the Abbot's grand feast day chair has been set up on a raised dais (some pallets from the cellar draped in velvet curtains) He is wearing his best robes and has the Abbot's staff with the bell on it held lightly in one hand.
   
Most impressive however is the tapestry of Martin, it has been raised up higher then usual so it hangs above Benar's chair, spread out across the far wall. It is quite the effect, clearly organised to project an air of sophistication and civilization. It clearly takes the black rat back and the golden one frowns for just a moment before their features smooth out.
   
As Lily takes her first step into the hall the choir suddenly start to sing, their voices rising in a wordless hymn of greeting that shimmers through the air. Perfectly tuned to last the length of time it will take Lily and the others to escort their guests down the knave to a space before the Abbot's chair. The final touch to Benar's display is Virginia standing tall and proud atop the arched back of his large chair and arrayed around the room her flock, at least those not out on patrol right now, each one perched on the shoulder of one of the members of the order.       

Gorvenalus stays where he is as well, alert and listening to what's going on and ready to record what is needed to be recorded.   

   
LilyMoore is startled by the rearranging of her home, but she swiftly hides her surprise, keeping her head held high and proud as she leads them to the dais (since when did that exist?). Once the rats are where they need to be, she stands off to the side, her gaze fixed on the rats' every move, paw on sword hilt, ready to attack should they...I don't know, start spitting poison thorns from their mouths or something. She's not sure what to expect, she's just trying to be ready for everything and make her family proud.   

Zarok and Terfil were forced to be in this little....whatever this is. But when the mouse enters, their gazes fix on her, hoping she's safe. Nissaya is also here, having gotten Angela's reassurance that she can run the Infirmary without him. Butterclaw comes fluttering down from the rafters, taking more than his usual care to make sure his landing is smooth and not clumsy. Virginia the rook had imparted on him the importance of this spectacle, and he is doing his best to not ruin it. He makes one of his rare graceful landings beside Lily, his helmet and battleclaws gleaming as he looks the rats up and down scornfully. Virginia gives him a nod, fixing her own gaze on the visitors.   
   
Adrian is likewise taken aback at the change, but his neutral expression betrays nothing. Paw still on the hilt of his rapier, he takes up a position near the door. His other four hares are placed in strategic locations, and he hopes that can still plausibly imply he has the numbers he mentioned before. Fear of force and all that.
   
Gorvenalus just acts as if this is normal, yes very normal while he wonders to himself if Benar has lost it, he will chat later he decides abd just waits to see,,,what happens next.   

Krisha wants to ask questions but she will wait, Benar must know what he is doing after all or least she hopes so.   

They'd have a hard time convincing the Skipper to part with his weapons right now so it's just as well they avoid that argument. His eyebrow shoots up as he enters the place as the choir starts up. Moments later the eyebrow comes back down in to a look of anger. He does not approve of rolling out the carpet for the rats who have killed beasts and been besieging them. He holds his tongue but the frown is briefly directed at the abbot before he stands to the side, folds his arms and frowns at the rats instead.
   
The black female rat opens her mouth to speak but falls silent with a startled glance at her lord when he raises his hand. He then steps forward and bows, "High Abbot Benar, it would appear the stories I received that your people had lost their place in the way are misplaced."   

Benar remains seated but bows his head, "Your Lordship, be welcome to Redwall Abbey, I am glad you have come before me to speak, we can settle the appropriate restitution for your unprovoked attack upon my domain."   

The black rat looks outraged but the blonde one in the crown smiles languidly, "I see, you claim my attack was unprovoked and yet even here, in this hall, there is a clear mingling of the castes. Those who should be trained as servants, those who might be property, others," he glances at Adrian and his hares, "Who are outside the order, it is clear that this place must be brought back to the order."   

Benar remains seated and shakes his head, "The order of castes has no place here High Lord Ferlanth, I ask, no I demand in the name of Martin the Warrior that you depart our forests and do not return."
   
The black rat sneers around the room at everyone but Ferlanth remains calm and just surveys the room then focusses back on Benar, "I offer you this one last chance High Abbot Benar, surrender your lands to the proper establishment of the order. Or else in the name of the Empress, may she live forever and my hope of a higher name I shall take it from you and impose the order."   

Benar shakes his head, "You shall not take Redwall from me or any who dwell here, depart know in peace or else your days will be numbered."   

Ferlanth shakes his head and turns, starting for the door, the black rat runs to follow and he starts back out. Several guards fall in to follow and escort them back to the door and as soon as they are out of sight and sound Benar pulls off his vestments and leans his head back to glare up at Martin's tapestry.   

"You... this had better work..." he mutters and then stands up, "Ok everyone, shows over, sorry for the rigamarole, but that rat... wouldn't speak to anyone directly unless he thought they where at least his equal in rank..." he turns to stare up at the tapestry, "Martin gave me some very clear instructions how to force him to talk to us. Now apparently, he can only attack us using the rules his people live by for attacking the home of someone of equal rank... otherwise he'd have just swarmed us under like locusts....."   

Stepping down off the makeshift dais he nods to Virginia, "Thank you for your help, your flock should have spooked him with omens as well. The fact we have the birds on our side... now everyone. We have bought oureselves a bit of time, let's get the great hall back to normal, man the walls and prepare.
   
Once the rats are gone, Virginia bows, then caws something to her birds, and they scatter back outside, not thrilled with all the hoity-toity fanciness they just had to endure. LilyMoore is furious and starts stamping around in a circle. "Who does he think he is?? Ranks? Caste? PROPERTY?? Ooooh...." she is livid! Butterclaw preens his chest and twitters something. The temporary Gatekeeper waves her paws in agitation. "I know! He's no better than I am -- ooh, I wish I could show him with the point of my mother's sword..."   

Adrian doesn't take his eyes off of the unwelcome guests until after they are safely back outside the front gates. "I could've gutted 'em both right 'ere, right now... I *know* Monty could've..." He sighs, and shakes his head, but can't help being impressed by Benar's gutsy act. The squirrel has chutzpah.   
   
Gorvenalus sits finally and quickly writes down what just happen, yes this will be remembered for seasons to come that's for sure."So...they will likely be back then?"   

Krisha says, "lets hope not but yes its best to prepare as the abbot said, but prepare how just keep watch. extra guards?"   

Gaheris glares all through the speeches, focused on the rats but he doesn't say anything until the rats are already being led off "I'll show 'im a servants trainin', at the end f'a damn arrow" he mutters as he follows outside at a distance, heading straight back to the wall and getting his bow back out on the way.   

Benar says, "Oh yes..." Benar flumps down in his chair then grimaces and gets out of it, he only usually uses that thing for feasts, "I had to make them think we where equals.... I don't know their rules sadly, only that... they will have to fight in certain ways." He turns to Gorven, "I need you to find everything you can in the library on the Empress Who Lives together and the Order of Castes, we must have something in some travellers book." The abbot sighs and then glances around the great hall, "Ugh... let's get this put back to normal, I feel dirty just pretending to be like him!"
   
LilyMoore follows the others back outside, making sure the Main Gate is fully secured. "I'll show him I'm no servant," she mutters as she stomps up the wall steps. "'Little mouse'?? I'll 'little mouse' her! My mom's family was practically royalty back in her homeland! I'll show them what I'm made of..." She stands beside the Skipper, fuming as she glares at the receding Rats of Hoity-Toity. Virignia, after making sure the Abbot is alright, goes out and starts checking on her birds in the orchards and on guard duty on the roof. Butterclaw stayed behind in Great Hall, and now he turns to the Badger Mother and the Recorder. "Butterclaw worryfear ratworms will comeback and makefight!"   

"They'll bloody be back, alright," Adrian says, grimly. "We'll keep a full watch on th' walls at all times..." With the show over, the hare is making his back up to the wall top to keep watch himself.   

Gorvenalus frowns , he sighs "I should...help Benar to his room, I think he needs some sleep...or...."He stops there, the abbot maybe lost his mind he decides but clears his throat "Yes ..sleep is good, a calming herbal tea"   

Krisha frowns and decides she will check on the abbot then get her mind off today, she still has some rooms to redo.   

Gaheris heads up towards the wall, intent on watching the king returning to his horde "I don't care if y'family came from pond weed, it'd still be better than tha' lot" he grumbles to Lily. He nods to Adrian's words "I don't know wha' their rules are but if they want t'keep feedin' all those rats they'll not keep 'em stood out there doin' nothin' for long"   

LilyMoore thinks for a minute, then nods. "Yeah, you're right," she tells the Skipper, "I just....oooh, maybe it's a good thing Momma's not here....I think she would've skewered him. She's raised me to see everybeast as equals. I don't think she could've kept her cool." She tries to do a quick count and then remembers why she doesn't like math. "I should warn all the birds in the area to flee. Hopefully they can get their chicks away....I think most of them are fledglings by now..."   

LilyMoore then goes to do just that, gathering her non-sparrow and non-blackbird avian friends to her. She gives them their messages, and they take off into the woodlands to warn as many of the birds as they can that they need to go into hiding far from Redwall, just until the rat horde is gone...   

Gaheris grunts quietly because he was sorely tempted to skewer them himself "'ey, see if one of 'em birds will swoop over Camp Willow would y'? Maybe tell 'em wha's goin' on" he shakes his head with a sigh "They'll know t'keep their 'eads down" he finally mutters on his way up to the wall top to stand guard once more until they're attacked or sleep claims him, whichever comes first.

Gorvenalus double checks what he wrote and writes down his views of today, closes the journal and goes to make some nice, herbal, calming tea him and Benare can drink.

Who:

Zolomon-Sargeant, Runner, Archer in LP

Keifer-Private, Healer in LP

Keldorn-Warrior in GUOSIM

Xander- Warrior Badger

Oz- Badger Cub

LOG:

Xander was still in the infirrm, likely there for who knows how long as he reached out his paw and frowns as it shook,he lower it slowly and shakes his head, his leg tightly bandaged and he hoped maybe thats why he wasnt feeling his leg or why he couldn't move it yet,there was still pain in his side off and on, and not eating much right now...then again not much agreed with him just yet.   

Keifer enters the infirm slowly and tilts his head as he walks over towards Xander"Your awake I heard..or maybe your not"He chuckles a little as he reaches up, seems to count so many over on the herbs and gets a vial,he sniffs it and nods"Always gotta check...in case something is placed wrong by some recruit in training."
   
Xander looks over and watches the hare, he speaks sounding sore,weak and tried still"I'm...awake yeah"   

Keifer nods as he gives a smile walking over and adding some herbs to some water,"Here this helps with any pains."A closer look shows the hare is blind,but he sure doesn't act like he is."I heard there was a badger among the visitors"
   
It's about that time Zolomon shows up with the cub Oz, and it seems the cub dislikes him as he wiggles and wails and clearly hates being carried by the hare.Upon seeing Xander though he seems to cheer up with coos and giggles and reaches out towards him."Though ya would...ummm like a visitor Xandy...he kind of, sort of don't like me"   

Xander smiles and would sit up, he can't.He manages to drink the liquid and makes a face and reaches out a very shakie paw to Oz and rests it on his head, "Oz..."   

Keifer steps back "Ohh..Corp...I mean Sargeant Zolomon hello."He frowns "You clearly should not have the cub if you know nothing of dibbuns at that age."   

Oz squeals happy as Zolomon carefully helps Xander to hold the cub,he frowns at Keiker "I say K chap...I have no clue why so I leave young ones to those who better know how to care fer em' wot" He looks concerned for Xander but keeps it to himself.   

Xander does his best to hug Oz to him and smiles, it's been too long in his mind since he held his son,he wants to hug him better but this will have to do "Dada missed you...I am so glad your ok, you and Caleb are both ok"   

Keifer smiles , he may be blind but he knows how a reunion is.He sits a vile down"Your be in here a while sir badger, how long...not sure yet."   

Oz yawns and goes to sleep beside Xander cuddling close to him. Zolomon smiles "This is Keifer , he is one of our healers.He is blind but he doesn't let that stop him....and"He speaks to Keifer now"This is my best friend in the world...Xander"   

Xander nods "I...had an uncle that was blind, one wouldnt know if they didnt look close though, he was Badger mom before he died, my son is named after him..Oz."   

Keifer bows "Nice to meet you then Xander and yes I am blind as Zolomon has told you but I know my way around the mountain just fine, know herbs by scent and feel, there is an order in here where things are, good for when one is in a hurry and once in a while, nit often luckily, a trainee may misplace an herb...so I double check"   

Zolomon nods as he remembers Oz"Ozzy was great, now Krisha is Badger Mom...she still is right?" He so wants updated on things.
   
Xander nods "Yes...."He sighs, he misses her and hopes deep down all is well at the abbey"And..Benar is still abbot"   

Keifer sits down "I have heard tales of the abbey but never was there, I grew up in the mountain ended up a healer instead of a fighter after a rather bad accident. bUt healing seemed to be my true calling "   

About this time Keldorn entered and nods to the others, "Greetings all, how is every beast this day?"
   
Zolomon waves "Doing fairly well Keldorn just chatting and letting Xandy see little Ozzy"   

Xander smiles a little at Keldorn, Oz is asleep beside him "Hey...Keldorn...any updates on the slavers or finding the ..dibbuns?"   

There is a frown "None yet, They have escaped us...least for now but we now have a ship to go after them, Lord Ciocan and some other hares will tag along with me,Dorarose,Oswald, Donica and...I think young Caleb will go as well,though not 100% sure and of course Matilda is going with us"
   
Keifer listens "I am gonna be here, place still needs a healer after all ya know.
"   
Oz yawns and snuggls closer to Xander, Zolomon speaks "I think I might stay here as well, they need a sargeant ta stay and I can help you recover Xandy, sides I think a friend for company will be fine and dandy"
   
Xander nods "Yeah...."He frowns "If I get much...better.I can hardly move...I feel...nothing in my right leg at all and it...scares me."He sounds scared"W...wot good am I to anyone like this"   

Keldorn speaks "Sir Xander...you are alive, you have 2 sons and a wife...friends who love you and care about you."   

Keifer walks over to examine the badger "Let me...see.I do need to check the wound...."Always good to rebandage and check for infection every 2-3 days and he will do so carefully.He slides runs a finger small quill pen along Xander's leg, the side with the injury, he also checks for swelling "Do you...feel this at all?"   

Zolomon stays off to the side, he is concerned but keeps quiet as Keifer checks Xander over.Oz meanwhile sleeps quietly.

Xander stays still, the wound is sewed, luckly an infection that was there is mostly gone, but the wound its self has a lot of healing yet.There is slight swelling but its normal for now.He frowns some, "I....no"He says quietly, yet there is one jolt of pain then nothing when the bandage is all the way off but its more lower back a little pain.His arm is bandaged but that wound was not too deep,"It..hurts....once in a while, and my paw...shakes real...bad...why?"
   
Keifer hmmms quietly checking carefully"I am....not sure, I will need to hav someone look something up and read it back to me." He will apply herbs needed and rebandage carefully, as well as check the arm"The poison that was on that bolt was fairly bad, traces of it may still be somewhat in your system..traces that need to slowly work out, and there is always side effects with poison, you should be now be 6 foot under the ground but you got very lucky, likely the only one who has lived from this poison, your recovery will be slow"   

Keldorn frowns as he listens to the news, its a lot for one to think on thata for sure, he glaces at Xander" try to not worry sir Xander, you are strong and will recover"
   
Zolomon one ear droops as he frowns, he nods "I am 'ere for ya too Xandy,not to worry"   

Xander growls now, he takes a deep breath "Every beast just....leave" He frowns "Take Oz.....just go...away."   

Keifer frowns but nods as he walks to the door "Come...he needs rest."He leads the others out of the room that is there, till the badger is alone in the room with just his thoughts
   
Xander waits till they leave and closes his eyes and just starts sobbing, he coughs a few times and has to catch his breath but then its back to sobbing loudly, why is this happen to him? Is he stuck never walking again? Why is his paw shaking so badly! Why can't he feel his leg and when he feels jolts of pain it shoots up his side, his leg maybe a second or maybe he thinks it's there,he can't move his leg....he wont be able to protect anyone on the ship or even go help find the dibbuns, he feels....so helpless right now.   

Zolomon does get Oz and is the last one out,he frowns with worry as he looks back at Xander and then heads off to where ever the others are going.   
Per page: 100 150 200 500

Who:

Zolomon- Sargeant,Runner and Archer in the LP

Caleb-Warrior

Xander-Former Warrior

Keldorn- Warrior in GUOSIM

LOG:

   
Zolomon decided to check on his friend and sighs when he finds out....he is asleep, he is assured he is just alseep now and needs a lot of rest and so he heads to the common room and sits down pouting.

Keldorn walks in and sits by the hare "What is wrong my friend? You seem upset...privates being annoying or recruits maybe?"   

Zolomon sighs "If only...no I was checking on Xandy..he woke up by the way and they gave him some water and brooth ....wot kind of food is that?"   

Keldorn smiles "Sir Xander woke from his coma? This is good news and likely ....well one does need to take it easy , he is lucky to be alive...very much lucky in fact." He keeps the smile "I may have to see him tomorrow...though I am sure Ciocan is gonna have us head off soon, I gave the Long Patrol a ship, a large sailing one for sea travel"   

Zolomon says, "Sounds fun....I would likely get sea sickness, I am unsure if will go yet...may stay and help Xandy"   

Keldorn nods "Sounds nobel, not all can go after all some will stay here...and be good to have a high ranking hare here"   

Zolomon says, "There is other higher ranks ya know....Q...and Major Pete, though he only is sentry mainly and teaches a class...maybe two.""   

Keldorn nods "I remeber...the old hare that carried Donica right?" He sighs "If you are staying I...need a favor done."   

Zolomon blinks "Favor..wot sort of favor would that be?"   

Keldorn clears his throat "Take some privates with you thats under your command...1/2 day from the shore along the river moss is...what used ta be me boat before those....scums turned it into a slaver...evil...thing"He takes a deep breath "Burn the boat...its..its nothing but evil now"   

Caleb would slowly meander in. Now that the mouse knew for sure Xander was going to be okay, he could rest easy. All he's been doing is training lately so he needed it anyways. Caleb would head into the common area and blink as he watched them. Slowly he'd wander over and nod to them, giving a wave.   

Zolomon blinks again and thinks on this "I...would have to ask his Lordship on that , not like can just go off without notice but yeah I will...ask if can"He looks up when he sees Caleb and nods.   

Keldorn nods "Thanks"He smiles at Caleb "Xander has woken from his coma, or was you already told of this Caleb?"   

Caleb nods and writes something on his pad since he didn't feel like using paw language. "I was there when he woke up. Glad to know my father is okay now. It looks like Lord Ciocan really came through."   

Zolomon looks at the writting and nods "Yeah...Xandy might take a while to recover though."   

Keldorn says, "Sir Xander is likely to stay here while the rest of us go to save the dibbuns and I trust they will be found and rescued,then we return home to Mossflower and Redwall""   

Zolomon nods in agreement and frowns some, he still was clearly worried but trying not to be so, a subject change "So...your old boat is..where now Keldorn?"

Caleb blinks and looks towards Keldorn, whimpering as he writes some more down. "Are you sure that Xander has to say? I... know he'd be safer here, along with Oz but... away from my father?"   

Keldorn replies " a very short ways up the river moss ....as said just...burn it...I dont want it anymore" He looks at Caleb now and frowns "But...sir xander is in no way gonna be better to go on a long voyage"   

Zolomon nods, he clears his throat "Xandy is..pretty weak, he just woke from a coma....I am unsure what all is...wrong with him, but he still looks horrible and the bandaged leg and arm"
   
Caleb blinks and looks away somewhat but sighs, shaking his head somewhat. "Yes... unfortnately that's true. Just like when I first came to the Abbey, Xander is damaged and needs to sit for a few days. Anyways... this ship... Keldorn, I think this might be what we need that paper for."   

Keldorn tilts his head "Oh the...one ship, yes in Halyard..I speak of the..one the slavers stole."He smiles "Ciocan has the ship now that's in Halyard, I gave it to the Long patrol as a gift"   

Zolomon says, "Xandy will be ok here...why were you thinking of staying 'ere Caleb till they...get the dibbuns back?"
   
"No... I do want to be here, of course. It was my dream to come to Salamandstron. But... something is just telling me I have to go. I know Xander can take care of himself. But... if Lord Ciocan says I should stay then I will. I have to follow the rules of the Badger Lord." Caleb only seems to be thinking things over, wanting to try and word what he wants to say right.   

Keldorn looks at the note and hmmms "Maybe..ask him if you get the chance, a lot of hares I know are going, as well as me...Dora and the others are going on the ship of course as well"   

Zolomon smiles "Well if you feel lead to go on the trip, if you do just be very careful lad..its likely a long sea voyage...and these slaveers seem..dangerous and if Xandy is staying here to recover, which is very likely, you guys wont have him ta help....course your have Ciocan and some of the best figher hares around to go"   

Keldorn stands as he offers a smile "I am sure it will be figured out."He starts to head off and again looks at Zolomon "We can talk more of the small boat later"He then heads to get some rest.   

"I trust Lord Ciocan, the hares and everyone else going with my life... I was also trained by my birth father and I know my way around a sword. So... I think if I do go then I'll be good to defend the dibbuns, at least." He nods towards Keldorn and looks back to Zolomon before writing some more down. "Can we head back to the infirmary to check on dad? I would appreciate it."   

Zolomon nods as he stands"Lets head over then"   

Xander is...yep still in infirm and laid on the cot still, he hasn't move but he is more awake now than ealier and has had some brooth and water, not yet eatting much as the healers want to see wha the can keep down.   

Zolomon leads the way to the infirm and walks over to Xander "Hey...Xandy...ya have visitors."
   
Caleb would slowly come in and smiles somewhat as he watches his father. He slowly heads over and gives him a gentle hug before giving a wave.   

Xander looks over when he hears Zolomon and nods an ok,visators are welcome in fact.He smiles a little.."Caleb....your ok,"He was a bit out of it ealier. He again looks at Zolomon, sort of an odd stare."your....Sa"He coughs "Sargeant?"   

Zolomon folds his paws behind his back and nods "Bout....week ago."He grins "I would of likely sent a letter"He snorts "You have changes too ya know...a son...well sons now"   

Caleb simply can't help it and just hugs to Xander again, holding to him and not letting go. However he does so that he can write for Xander instead of signing. "Yes... I'm okay. I'm glad to see you're okay as well, along with Oz. How do you feel?"   

Xander reaches out a paw and frowns as it shakes, it shakes a lot so he lowers it with a frown, he seems concerned but nods to Caleb, for now not answering, thinking prehaps on words to say.   

Zolomon smiels and decides he can always talk to his friend later, he slips off...besides he has to check on a couple privates and then head to bed for the day and fatehr and son likely need some time to just them.
   
Caleb would take a moment to just let go and write some more down. "How are you feeling, dad? Are you alright"   

Xander finally does speak, he still sounds weak though "I'm...glad to be alive...I.."He seems unsure of saying anything but he is not keeping anything from his son.."I was..at the dark forest gates....I saw..Martin." He knows his leg is bandaged tightly from hip to knee, and a small bandage on his lower arm."Lot..of pain....and..can't move leg...."   

"So... you don't think you can walk right again. And you were on the verge of death after all. I... wish I could have done more. Maybe I really should stay here with you and just protect you and Oz." Caleb seems defeated. This was a chance for him to really prove himself for the Abbey but he wants to make sure his father and brother stay safe.
   
Xander looks at him and reaches out his paw again, which shakes badly but he just grunts and reaches out to rest it on his son's shoulder gently.."You...Kurgan...could of...killed you. I..could of...l..lost you"He liekly is talking too much but it's fine."As fer...walking again...we...will see...I..love you son..and..proud of you."
   
Caleb seems to want to cry, whimpering now as he hasn't heard those words in such a long time. Losing his father was a heartbreaking moment and the fact that he could have been lost didn't cross his mind till just now. He hugs to Xander again and seems to struggle for a bit before trying to speak... It's obvious no words come out but the sounds he make come together to somewhat piece the words, "I love you too." to him.   

Xander smiles, even if his paw he shakie he manages to hug him back. "I'll be ok...I'm alive, you can see if...you can sleep in here..tonight"He is tried and after a little while will fall asleep.   

==The next morning===

Xander was up early, he glances at Caleb as it seemed the healers let him stay, he sighs softly thinking.   

Zolomon makes his way inside, he smiles and walks over "Hey Xandy...checking on visators before start de day and I bring oatmeal and some milk, or water."   

Xander shrugs as he isn't too talkative right now, he would roll onto his side but he can't.He lifts his paw and frowns, still super shaky it seems as he looks at the hare finally"Why?" He frowns, he sounds better this morning at least.   

Zolomon sits the food and drink down and sits down by his friend "Why wot Xandy? You...ok...I can get a healer maybe."   

Xander says, "I ...don't want...a healer." He shows the shaky paw and lays it down..."Thar...is pain but..also numbness....can't feel my right leg Zolomon and my whole right side...is numb, my right paw...shakes. Can't....sit up...and not hungry..much."He will drink the water, with help of course."I just....don't know"   

Zolomon frowns, he will help him drink water but also help him take least a few bits of oatmeal"Your recover Xandy, ya will trust me just gonna take some bally well time."
   
Xander will eat maybe 3 bits of oatmeal and thats it,but drink all the water.He clears his throat and coughs"I...can't help them...can't go on ship" And he would of if he was able, even if a great storm came or he got seasick,but he is stuck recovering for who knows how long.."Where is....my blade?"
   
Zolomon hmmms "Likely safe in either Lord Ciocan's room or the forge...why?"   

Xander nods "Just...wanted ta know..."He closes his good eye " I....am not gonna need it anymore"   

Zolomon looks worried "Course ya will Xandy, your be right as rain....well soon or maybe not soon but your recover wot"   

Xander looks at his friend, a friend he has know almost all his life"I...know...but..."He tries to find the words "I am...laying aside my warrior days. Martin even said..." What was the words, he smiles as he does indeed remember "You choose your path, the weapon does not choose you"   

Zolomon listens and eyes widen when Martin is mentioned, he then asks "So your....not gonna be a warrior?Wot bout de..Defenders?"
   
Xander speaks "They can still...defend just"He shrugs" I won't lead, not....as before anyways.The Mossflower Defenders are still around...though small and more a set of allies now but"He shrugs "Its around."   

Zolomon nods, he smiles "Wot ever your decision is I support ya, your my friend, my best friend in the whole world."He grows quiet and then "When you were...brought here I though you were dead, you looked...dead.It looked like it was...too late and even the healers were worried when you didn't wake up the next morning and even Ciocan I think was worried, he knows your awake now and who knows may pay ya a visit"   

Xander nods "I need some sleep....ok Zolomon? I will be awake later ...and need to see others thoughts on...my decision of laying aside my blade, If I can I will still train Oz to use it when he is ready, it will be his one day after all" He then lays down and is soon back to sleep.He needs the sleep   

Zolomon nods and quietly makes sure Xander is ok, the blaket tucked around him and pillow is ok and then slips off to start his day.