03.14.09 - Harsh News (TP)

Any discussion of this TP should be done in the comments of this log.

Location: Redwall Great Hall

Characters Involved: Eithne, Magramba, Benar, Antioc, Jacqueline, Saja, Nicodemus, Corbyn

Eithne has deposited herself in a chair between chores, tucked up comfortably in it and just quietly relaxing. She has a book open across her lap but has lost interest, kind of dozed off, or nearly so.

Benar walks up the steps from the Kitchens, the Grey squirrel novice moving towards the main stairs, waving at Eithne as he moves along.

The door to Great Hall swings open ominously.

Eithne blinks a little and one ear quirks up. She gives Benar a groggy smile. "Hello, Benar. Where're you off to?"

Benar slows to a halt and smiles at Eithne, "Ah just my room, I need to get something for Zen.." he stops and turns to look at the doors, the grey squirrel's braids swinging.

The door opens a bit further, and Magramba's head pokes in, letting in the scent of dust, salt, and the forest. His eyes scan the room.

"Ah .. well don't let me interrupt you, then," the cat says, closing her book and setting it aside with a short yawn. A glance goes to Magramba, and her muzzle tugs in a smile. "Good evening!"

Benar stares at the squirrel for a moment and then slowly starts to walk towards him, he folds his paws into his sleeves and bows. "Welcome to Redwall Abbey tree-brother.." he tilts his head, something seems familiar about this other squirrel.

Magramba steps inside, closing the door behind him. His clothing is a little worse for the wear, a good number of poorly patched rips about the main garb, and the squirrel's cloak is tattered and torn. The warrior inclines his head in greeting to Benar, and steps closer to him. "Is the Abbot about?"

Eithne's ears angle up. "Well I'm sure he's about somewhere... You don't look so well off, sir, would you like to come sit down?"

Benar says, "I'm afraid not at the moment no I am sure we can track him down." he steps to one side, "Please sit, I'm Novice Benar, this is Novice Eithne, you look as if you have had a hard journey."

Magramba rocks forward onto his toes, craning his head up to look over the other squirrel's shoulder. "You're sure he's not handy?" With a sigh, he settles back on his feet, scratching the back of his head. "Guess I'll sit until we can find him." He trudges towards Eithne, and, more importantly, the fire.

Eithne gets up and takes ahold of a chair, angling it toward Magramba for him to sprawl in. He looks about ready to keel over. The cat watches closely. "I can fetch you some food as well, if you'd like, sir..?" Name please.

Benar nods to Magramba, "I am afraid so.. the Father Abbot is rather busy, what with Spring and everything. I am sure he'll be down soon. What is so urgent that you must see? And can i ask your name warrior?"

Antioc comes leading Jacqueline down the stairs by the paw with a grin on his face. He glances over and sees Magramba, tilting his head to the side. He lets go of the mousemaids paw, giving her a look that says sorry this will be just a moment and starts over towards them, "Eithne...whats goin on?" He recognised the squirrel, but couldn't place a name.

Magramba stops short of the chair, looking the cat in the face. "No no, it's not Sir anymore. Been a long time since those days. D'you know me from back then?" His eyes are quizzical. He turns back to face Benar. "Why should /Spring/ make him busy? The seasons c'n change without him watchin'." Since he's turned around, he takes the opportunity to lean backwards and slump into the seat.

Benar tilts his head, "I.. mmm I am not sure... do you remember a squirrel called Amarro? You seem familiar..." he quizzes the other squirrel with interest, holding up one paw and pulling back his sleeve to reveal the red-metal bracelet wrapped about his wrist. He has one on both wrists and ankles.

Eithne's ears swivel toward Antioc, who she gives a smile to. "Ah! Hello Antioc. Nothing really, just extending a bit of Redwall hospitality. Seems like Benar might know him, though!"

"Zut alors..." Jacqueline murmurs, suddenly standing very still. She knew what to do when a pastry crust was too flakey, she knew how to stop a souffle from collapsing but this? This is out of her depth. Her paws fold behind her and she swallows, observing before she can see any immediate method she can give aid. Wait! She does know. "I will fetch some water." Exhaustion needed things like water, right?

Jacqueline scurries towards the kitchen.

Magramba mutters at Eithne. "Fine, fine, don't answer m' question." His eyes flick again to Benar. "Lovely bracelets. Got any food?"

Antioc turns and nods to Jacqueline, then looks back to the squirrel, "I know ye from somewhere...fergive me matey. Ye look like ye seen a long road."

"Oui!" Jacqueline squeaks before vanishing completely into the kitchen. Now FOOD she could do!

Magramba cradles his face in his paws momentarily. "Why does /everyone/ here know me but not know me." Mutter. "Where IS the abbot."

Eithne chuckles. "Sorry .. I'm not really sure where he is. It's a rather large abbey, you know. Would you like me to go look for him then..?"

Benar shakes his head at Mag and pats his shoulder. "We'll get you something to eat good master... calm down now"

Antioc puts a paw to his chin, trying to place the face. Then a light goes on, "Ye left with Brother 'Arper 'n Miss Dahcy."

Magramba flinches away from the other squirrel's paw. "Don't /touch/ me. And don't tell me to calm down, I'm in perfect control of my body." Now to Eithne. "No, don't bother, I'll find him later." Antioc's question could raise an issue. "Yeah, that."

Benar takes a few steps back from the squirrel and bows to him, "I appologise I'll go get that food." he turns and heads down into the kitchens.

Antioc looks towards the door somewhat expectantly, "Magramba...right? They stay back at th' mountain?" He has a slight smile on his face. The road could be tiring and irritation is common just after a long journey. Thats alright though, food and water were on the way.

Jacqueline nearly bumps into Benar on the way OUT of the kitchen. She's trying to balance a plate of leftovers from the previous night and a mug of water. "I was trying to 'urry." She explains to him before carefully moving around him. "I only found some fruit and some dinner rolls but I sink it will do for now."

Antioc asks, "'Ow was th' trip?"

Magramba waves Benar off idly. "Nuts. Candied, if you've got 'em." Whoa, that's his name! From... the ferret. "Yeah, that's kind of what I need to talk to the Abbot about."

Benar is gone for a few minutes, returning with a small bag which he adds to the fruit Jacqueline brought, "Candied nuts, we don't have many of them left I am afraid."

Antioc tilts his head to the side, "They gon' stay then?" he asks hopefully. Something wasn't right here and he had a feeling he wasn't going to like it.

Jacqueline holds out the pint of water first. "Here, you go, m'sieur, somesing to wet ze palette first. She nods to Benar and if Magramba takes the water, then holds out the plate of bread, fruit and nuts, thanks to Benar.

Eithne tilts her head a little, listening into the conversation. Food seems to be covered - not much she can do for now.

Magramba shakes his head, eyes playing over the tray of food appreciatively. "No, I'm afraid you've got it wrong, friend. They didn't stay at the mountain, and they're not going to. We never made it there." He receives the mug first. "Thanks."

Benar says, "Wait.. we are talking about Brother Harper correct? The Recorder? Did they go elsewhere?"

Antioc narrows his eyes at the squirrel, speaking first to Benar, "Aye mate, 'at be th' one." Then to Mag, "Where did they go?"

Eithne says gently to the other novices, "Perhaps give him a moment to relax from his journey, first, before you start an inquisition..."

Magramba takes a good long swig from the mug, his free paw accepting the tray of food. As he lowers the vessel of drink, he nods graciously to the mouse and again expresses his thanks. "I'm getting to that."

Benar lowers himself into a chair and nods to Eithne, let the squirrel relax and regain his bearings.

Jacqueline is just sort of... standing there. A little like a barmaid, admittedly. Her hands are ready to take any empty trays or cups to make sure they are refilled immediately. Especially that water.

Antioc nods, not happy with this waiting, Harper was his friend and Darcy...well...she stitched him up once. He crosses his arms to wait.

Eithne settles into a chair as well, quiet again. She drapes her tail over her knees, ears up attentively. Just waiting for the story - since obviously there's one coming.

Magramba allows himself a rather large bite from a dinner roll, and begins talking around it, chewing punctuating his phrases. "Well, things were going well, for the most part.... I mean, ... We ran into some... minor difficulties, but.. stuff like that's to be expected."

Benar ears perk, keeping quiet and playing with his braids idly as he listens.

Magramba pops a few nuts in his mouth. "Now." Chew. "Do I need to repeat that? Has anybody misconstrued my meaning yet?" He calls on a random observer. "Cat. What did I just say?"

Antioc keeps his arms crossed, moving his tail to the other side of him. He waves for the squirrel to continue, "Come on 'en...we gotcha."

Eithne blinks a little. "You said... minor difficulties."

Benar looks up and nods, he's listening.

Magramba points with satisfaction at the cat. "Good." His eyes sweep over the assembled company. "See how she did that? Listened to what I said, and didn't read into what I said /at all./ What I say is exactly what I mean. Got it?" He eyes the group, then nods. "Now. Let me begin by saying that there is /nothing/ we can do to change the way things are right now."

Antioc takes in a breath, about to say something, then he lets it go deciding to stay silent. For the moment at least.

Jacqueline is a little too flustered for this. What she DOES understand is that this w hole room is waiting for a blunt answer. "M'sieur, please, I sink zhat we understand your prologue, if you would please just /say/ what it is you mean, I sink we would all appreciate it."

Benar nods his head, "If you say we cannot change it, then there is nothing we can do to change it."

Eithne is quiet once again, the tip of her tail giving small twitches while she watches Magramba's expression.

Corbyn comes in from the kitchen, a bowl of soup in one paw, a loaf of bread in the other, and some Strawberry Fizz under his arm.

Magramba raises an eyebrow at Jacqueline. "I'm sorry, what?"

"Just /say/ what it is you mean to /say/." Jacqueline exclaims exasperated. She shakes her head, the following comment obviously to herself, "Et l'Anglais dit que nous sommes verbeux!"

Magramba shakes his head. "No no, I got that part. /That/ was what I was asking about."

Antioc turns his head and gives Jacqueline a 'what?' look. He could ask her to explain later. Then he looks back at Mag, nodding in agreement with the mousemaid, "Come on. We c'n talk 'bout what she said in 'er language aft'r. Please...'Arper an' Darcy."

"You 'ave eluded zheese people are in danger, could you at least be so kind as to tell zhem what is going on razher zhan wizhold it to make prologues of 'ow we are all so 'elpless to 'elp zhem?" Jacqueline didn't see why she was being asked questions. To her, her insertion seemed perfectly respectable if not called for. What did he mean he was asking about /that/? /That/ what?

Magramba settles back into his chair. "Riiiight." He looks thoughtful, and munches on a piece of bread. "Remember, there's nothing to be done. If there was, I'd be doing it. Now, we were near the mountain, close the the shore." Another swig from the mug.

Eithne's tail ticks back and forth. No comment from the cat, she's just part of the audience.

Antioc seems to lean forward in expectation.

Benar nods and leans forwards, listening to magramba as well.

"Darcy'd never been to the ocean before. Her an' Harp went down to take a look. I was going to go with them, but." Magramba pauses to take another drink of water. "Next day, when they still weren't back, me and Sivaine go to see if we can find them."

Antioc feels his jaw slack and his mouth go dry, "And?!"

Benar squeaks softly, "Oh dear.. that does not sound good..."

"/And/ they're gone. Signs of a struggle, of course. This is Darcy, keep in mind." Magramba takes another bite of roll. "The tracks lead towards the shore and disappear into the water, indicating-" He gestures with his paws. "-a pirate ship of sorts."

"You never found a body, zhen?" Jacqueline inquires. Hey, someone has to ask the BLUNT question.

Then the ferret sits down, just right there on the floor where he was standing. His ship used to raid the shore often for slaves.

"Oh." Eithne blinks, wearing an expression of concern. "Oh dear."

"/NO/ I didn't find a body! Are you insane? D'you really think I'd leave that out?" Magramba sighs, sinking deeper into his chair. "This. This is why the prologue. What did I say. /Do not/ read anything into the story that I don't expressly state."

Antioc looks at Magramba quickly, "Oy, she's just askin. No need t' get 'uffy wit 'er." Then he mutters, "They's eith'r dead 'r slaves. We ain't gon' see 'em agin..." He gets to his feet and steps away, putting his back to the group.

Benar backs a paw over his ears, "So they have been taken? By sea-faring vermin? And.. if they took them to sea.. no way of tracking them. Antioc has a point... we are unlikely to see them again."

Eithne murmurs, "No wonder you wanted to speak to the Abbot..."

"Your prologue said nozhing could be done!" Jacqueline exclaims. "In my country m'sieur, death is ze only road one cannot follow anozher down. 'ave you people no sense of noblesse oblige?" She looks to Antioc. "You know 'ow zheese sings work, do you not? Zhey will be made into slaves? Slaves are not dead."

Magramba heaves a long sigh. "This is why I only winter here." Mutter.

Antioc turns his head and looks at Jacqueline and nods, "Aye. If'n they's been taken by pirates, they's either gon' be slaves on th' ship 'r sold. If'n they's sold, they could end up anywhere."

Magramba gestures towards Antioc. "Hence, there's nothing we can do."

Eithne murmurs, "How long ago was this?"

Benar nods his head, "Thank you.. thank you for letting us know Magramba."

"No! Zhere are letters to be sent, contacts to be made---zhere are ways to find someone." Jacqueline cannot believe she's hearing this...

Aikuen has left.

Magramba squints up at the ceiling, thinking. "About... More than a week ago."

Antioc gives Magramba a sad look and nods, "Aye...thank ye matey." He looks back to Jacqueline and shakes his head, "Findin two beasts among hunnerds 'o slaves...when we don' even know where t' start lookin..." He shrugs, "I dunno." He looks towards the doors again, "I think I may go 'n sit by th' pond."

Saja makes his way down the stairs, limping along and frowning at the source of the limping. If only it wasn't so hard to get down stairs with a hurt leg! He gets down in time to hear the mention of slaves, and his ears perk up. He pads forward. "....What is all of this? Slavery isn't something often discussed in a peaceful place..." There's a bit of irritation in his voice, and confusion.

Benar glances at Jacqueline, "And who would we contact? Who amongst us knows slavers and pirates? Even the.. pardon the word, "Vermin species" amongst us have forsworn their old ways and would likely be killed if they tried to contact their former companions. Their captors could have sailed north, south, have them aboard their galleons or out on some season forsaken island in the sea." He looks at Saja then and backs his ears, "The Recorder and Miss Darcy have been taken.."

"I do not believe zhis," Jacqueline announces in a huff and heads towards the main exit. "Au revoir!" She hisses. That is one angry mousemaid... "Ayez une bonne vie!"

The otter sighs into his late dinner, and looks up. "I agree with ya lass, truely I do. But if'n these slavers are like the ones I seen before, they woulda unloaded thier slaves days ago. After that, who knows where they'd be."

Antioc decides to go ahead and follow her out, he was on his way towards the pond anyways. He gives a half-hearted wave to Magramba, Eithne, and Benar.

Benar sighs, idly turning the bracelet on his left paw, staring into the fire-place and lost in thoguht.

Saja frowns deeply. "And...there is no rescue operation underway?" The fox watches as the mousemaid walks out in disgust. He awaits Benar's response, though from the growing look of anger on his muzzle, he might not be too far away from doing the same!

Eithne inserts carefully into the conversation, "I believe the Abbot ought to be the one to make the decision, of if a search will be attempted..."

Corbyn bows his head, lost in his own thoughts, staring at the grain of wood

Magramba nods in agreement with Eithne. "Yes, which is kind of why I wanted to see him first."

Benar says, "I agree with Novice Eithne, I am sure every beast in here would be racing off to find them if we knew /were/ to look. But we do not, the most we can do is maybe send messages to our friends and hope."

Eithne shrugs a little, leaning back in her chair. "It's an awful big world out there... and nothing at all to go on. A search would likely be foolhardy."

Saja grits his teeth, the fox letting out a growl, until it degenerates into a coughing fit. "Y...You..." he starts out, stopping until he catches his breath. "They are your /comrades/, are they not? You have to do /something/, you fool! Find out where they were headed! Get a search party together, and ask beasts in the area whether they've been seen! Find beasts with contacts in slavery!"

Eithne's ears layer back. "I believe you did not hear all that was said, sir... There is no way to find them."

Benar looks at Saja and sighs, "They where kidnapped off a deserted beach. No one saw what ship took them or which way it sailed Sir... where would you have me search? Who should I ask?"

Magramba casts the fox a sardonic smile. "Believe me, what can be done, has been."

Corbyn looks back up. "Even if'n we found someone who was a slaver and got them to talk, if'n they would even, theres still no tellin' where they'd be right now. Blast it, they could be anywheres."

Saja sighs a bit, rubbing his face. "...Yes. Forgive me." He takes a few breaths to calm down. "Hmm...how difficult." He leans back on a nearby bit of furniture, pondering.

Benar stands up, "Please, have my seat Mister Saja.. i'll get you something to drink?"

Magramba takes another swig of water, before... running out. "Hm."

Eithne gets up out of her seat. "I'll fetch you some more, mister.. ah." Did he say his name? She doesn't remember.

Magramba glances over at the cat. "First sir, now mister. It's just Magramba."

"Rather difficult I'd imagine. It's not like theres a kingdom or some sorts where those filthy Vermin live after all." Corbyn gives a sad chuckle, taking a swig of his own drink. "No offense to those present, of course..."

Saja nods, taking the seat. "Thank you, I would appreciate that..." He shakes his head. "I...know what it's like, to lose comrades. I suppose when others speak that way of them...it brings up bad memories. I lash. I meant no disrespect." The vulpine strikes the table with a fist. "If only we at least knew a direction. I...lived in a city, and made certain contacts I /might/ be able to use if we knew a general direction to look. But, with nothing..."

Eithne gives Corbyn a glance and a slightly uncomfortable look. She makes no reply to him. "I'll fetch you more to drink," she offers to Magramba. "Water.. or something else perhaps?"

Benar inclines his head, the novice glances at Eithne, "I am about to go to the kitchen and get Mister Saja something, no point us both making the trip..." he offers to go instead.

"Ah.. yes, of course," Eithne says with a nod to Benar.

Benar lingers to hear what Magramba wants to drink before he goes.

Magramba glances over. "Whatever."

Magramba says, "To drink. Whatever's fine."

Benar nods his head and slips off down the stairs to the Kitchens

Saja frowns, the fox reaching under his eye-patch and rubbing as he ponders away, face scrunched with concentration.

Eithne slips back into her chair. "Is there anything else I can bring you, Magramba?"

Magramba glances back to the cat, and scooches his chair around to face her better. "No, I'm good. And you were...?"

"Eithne," the cat responds with a thoughtful frown. "It's nice to meet you - even under these, ah.. circumstances."

Magramba puts a paw on his tray to prevent the food from spilling and leans over to extend his paw. "The same."

Benar walks back into the Great Hall, balancing a tray in one paw. He sets it down on the table, lifting the large jug and filling the mugs he brought with fruit juice. "Here we go. Sorry to take so long."

Saja waves a paw. "It's fine." The vulpine sounds decidedly distracted, though at least he's stopped rubbing underneath his eye-patch.

Magramba watches patiently, tail swishing the floor through the gap in the back of the chair.

Eithne reaches to grasp Magramba's hand and give it a brief shake. She manages a smile. "So you are from the abbey as well, I gather?"

Magramba snorts lightly, returning the smile with a tired grin. "Psh, no. I winter here occasionally, but."

Benar holds out two tankards to the guests, one to Magramba the other to the fox. "Here we go."

Eithne settles back in her seat. "Ah - my mistake.."

Corbyn takes another drink from his flegon, his soup ignored and gone cold

Saja takes the offered drink, swigging it before going back to his thoughts.

Magramba accepts the mug with a gracious nod, leaning back in his chair. "That's fine, its a common question. But the answer remains the same. Maybe someday... Anyway. I don't believe I recognize you, Eithne. New to the Abbey?"

Eithne's ears flick. "Oh .. yes. I came a month ago, perhaps.. I've just become a novice here, as you can see." She indicates her habit.

Magramba nods. "Right, of course. Enjoying the place? I mean, the food is without peer, but besides that."

Benar sits down in a chair and stares into his own drink. "It is a lovely place, I am glad I came back."

Eithne nods. "It's quite nice.. a lot of work, of course, but... that is why I am here." She rubs her hands together. "I'm.. sorry, about your friends, Magramba..."

Nicodemus enters and heads for the hearth.

Eithne opens her mouth to say something else, when Nicodemus gets her attention. She gestures. "Well there he is..."

Benar stands from his chair and bows, "Father Abbot." he then sits down again slowly.

Nicodemus nods to Benar. "Merry meet, novice."

Aha. Magramba puts his paws on the armrests of his chair, boosting himself up slightly to address the Abbot. "Father. I have some bad news."

Corbyn gives a short salute to the Abbot. "Evenin' sir."

Saja peers over towards the Abbot, but otherwise says nothing as he sips his drink.

Nicodemus pauses before he sits down. "Why does 'news' and 'bad' so often find a relationship? What can I do for you?"

Magramba fidgets ever-so-gently with an armrest. "Well, Father, I'm sure you remember when Harper, Darcy, Sivaine, and I all left to go to Salamandastron."

Eithne quiets again, with her ears perked to the conversation at hand.

Nicodemus sits. "Indeed, I do. I didn't expect any of you to return so soon."

"Neither did we, sir." Magramba pauses, then continues. "I'm afraid Harper and Darcy have been taken by some sort of sea-faring vermin, Father."

Nicodemus narrows his eyes.

Nicodemus asks, "And Sivaine?"

Benar puts his cup down, keeping his paws in his lap and waiting quietly.

Magramba shakes his head. "Frankly, I have no idea. We parted ways at Halyard."

Nicodemus closes his eyes. "OK, So, were they abducted then from Halyard?"

Magramba shakes his head, putting a paw on the tray to keep it from sliding off his lap. "No, Father, we were some distance away when they were taken."

Nicodemus nods and opens his eyes. "I see."

Nicodemus says, "That is indeed harsh news."

Nicodemus removes his socks preparing to put his feet to the fire.

Benar stands up, "Well I am on kitchen duty, if you will all excuse me." he bows to the Abbott and heads down the stairs.

Magramba nods. "I'm sorry I couldn't get the word here sooner, Father."

Nicodemus nods to Benar.

Saja raises a brow. "You are the leader of this place, then? What is to be done about the whole event?"

Nicodemus extends his paws to the fire. "Magramba, I am very thankful you were able to do so. Carrying such dire news must have leached the joy of travel from you these many days."

Nicodemus turns his head to the fox. "I am Nicodemus, Abbot of Redwall. You are?"

Magramba nods gently, rubbing his eyes. "It was nothing, Father. The least I could do."

Saja frowns a bit. "Saja Hawkeye..."

Nicodemus says, "Merry meet, sir Hawkeye."

Nicodemus turns back to Magramba. "Believe me, many would have done less."

Saja goes silent, letting the two talk. He doesn't turn his gaze from the Abbot, taking slow breaths. He doesn't want to lash out twice in one day, after all!

Nicodemus stretches, his old joints popping as he does so.

Magramba shakes his head regrettably. "I would have liked to have done more."

Nicodemus asks, "What more? We're not a military unit. No doubt our friends from Salamandastron would have had the numbers and training to handle such a situation. You and Sivaine escaped, that's worthy of celebration."

Saja sips his drink briefly. "It /is/ a difficult thing, from what I understand. But, the last thing that should be done is for beasts to give up hope."

Magramba raises an eyebrow. "The Abbey may not be militarily minded, but I am, Father. And in no way do I belittle our fortune, but still." The squirrel flicks his eyes towards the fire. "I would exchange my place for theirs, given the chance."

Nicodemus tilts his head. "What idiot would be so stupid as to give up hope? That's against all we stand for. Martin never gave up, why would we?"

Nicodemus shakes his head. "Magramba, you did what you can. While I have no means to eliminate your guilt, I will say that I for one feel only gratitude. The harm was done by others. Being unable to do miracles is not something for shame."

Saja smiles a bit. "Ahh...the beasts here have spirit after all. Good. I was starting to get worried..." He nods in respect to the Abbot.

Nicodemus rubs his footpaws, staring into the fire.

Magramba nods thoughtfully. "Even so."

Nicodemus says, "Hawkeye, anyone who has given up hope, simply from a report of risk, is no Abbey beast. If you encounter such spineless creatures wearing our habits, you should ask them from whom they stole the habits."

Nicodemus says, "Our history is full of beasts taken, even dibbuns from this very hall. We have retreived many. Sometimes, we can't, but it's not like we've just sat here quivering in our vomit like puking babes."

"Aye, but Spirit anit near enough. I've delt with Ship Slavers like the ones mentioned in the South. If'n the ones up here are anything like them..." Corbyn sighs, leaving his answer hanging.

Eithne blinks mildly at Nic. "You are very... verbose, Father."

Nicodemus looks at Corbyn. "I guess, then, that's why you aren't wearing a Habit, Corbyn. Perhaps those who took them are worse. Who knows? But, if you'd see a chance of their recovery, such talk is only a way to reduce it."

Nicodemus turns to the novice. "Novice Eithne, you're still learn. But, do you think Martin would say "Forget it, give up?" Show these beasts what a real member of the Order think about giving up."

Eithne's ears flick back. "Of /course/ not. Redwallers are the last beasts in the world who would give up hope. Ever."

Nicodemus smiles. "Well spoken, novice. There, it's from the one who runs the order to it's newest member. Let any beast who claims to be an Order member speak as plainly."

Corbyn says, "I'm all for tryin' sir, its jut that, well, odds aren't really favorin' us."

Nicodemus gets up, bare-pawed, and walks over to the tapestry. Facing it, he asks, "So, should I just tell the mouse here, "Sorry, Martin, it can be hard. So, we've chosen to do nothing.""

Saja rubs his chin. "...Hmm. You all seem truthful enough, on that." He stands up, offering a bow to both Abbot, and Novices. "Forgive my words. Such beasts are rare in this world, it is not something I expected out of a peaceful Order." The fox sighs a bit, sitting down. He coughs briefly into an already red-stained sleeve.

Nicodemus puts his paw near, but not touching, the tapestery. "He faced odds worse than this with less than we have. He didn't care for the odds."

Nicodemus turns to the fox. "Your words don't need forgiveness. I'm sorry that any caused you to think them."

Magramba boosts himself out of his chair, and heads over towards the Abbot. "Aye, that he did." The squirrel's face is drawn, but there is an eager light in his eyes. "What would you have me do, Father? Do you know /anything/ that I can do to help Harp and Darcy?"

Nicodemus puts a paw on the squirrel's shoulder. "The last thing we can do to help them is act like ants with their heads popped off, squirming legs in all directions accomplishing nothing."

Nicodemus says, "Now, Corbyn, I ask a favor of you."

Corbyn looks up at the tapestry, then at the Abbot. "Aye?"

Nicodemus says, "Don't try to explain why it's hopeless. Those who are weak will be vindicated and those who are not will be disheartened. There's no place for such talk. Not now, not ever."

Corbyn nods lightly. "Sorry Father." The otter gives a weak smile. "Your right, should never say never."

Nicodemus says, "Or rarely."

Nicodemus says, "And we will be grateful to use what you know, should you offer it without the strings of despair attached."

Corbyn says, "My knowledge is yours to use, when ever ya need of it."

Nicodemus bows. "I thank you."

Saja nods to the Abbot, before sighing. His claws rub into the table, perhaps leaving scratches.

Nicodemus goes back to his seat, returning his now even more cold footpaws to the fireplace.

Corbyn takes one last look at the heroic mouse on the tapestry, then finds pulls a chair over to the group.

Nicodemus moves his feet a bit to keep them warming evenly.

Antioc steps through the doors from outside and immediately looks around for the abbot. Spotting him, the novice starts over towards him, "Fath'r abbot," he calls out.

Nicodemus nods. "Ah, Novice Antioc. Merry meet."

Eithne gives Antioc a smile as he comes in, but remains quiet.

Antioc gives Eithne a smile as he walks over to the abbot. "Mer'y met fath'r," he says with a bowed head, "I 'ave sommat t' ask ye..." His hands are folded in front of him.

Nicodemus says, "Certainly. How can I assist you?"

Antioc raises his head to look the abbot in the eyes, "I'm sure ye 'eard 'bout 'Arper 'n Darcy...I wan' t' go 'n look fer 'em."

Nicodemus says, "Yes, I have hard. Given your ... we are grateful that your expertise is availble to help us effect their location and return."

Antioc catches what the abbot didn't say, but it was all true. He nods, "So I c'n go?"

Nicodemus tilts his head, "As a novice, do you have the authority to speak bindingly for the Abbey, to represent it in possibly hostile surroundings, and to be taken seriously, not just for your low rank but your age as well?"

Antioc thinks for a long moment, then he shakes his head, "I 'aven't been taught bout speakin fer th' abbey. But...I still 'member 'ow th' world works enough t' know 'ow t' be taken seriously."

Nicodemus ask quietly, "Taken seriously as a Member of the Order of Redwall, or as what you sought to leave behind?"

Saja looks over curiously to Antioc.

Corbyn nods to the otter in greeting, an eyebrow quirked in curiousity as well

Antioc again falls silent. "As a memb'r," he finally says.

Nicodemus nods. "Glad to hear it, novice. You may not know it, but our novices are showing quite well today that our Order isn't made up of the weak, quitters, etc."

Nicodemus says, "Now, novice, your knowledge is going to be incredibly useful in our choosing how to respond. I assume you will wish to participate as a member of the team to resolve this."

Antioc nods, "Good. I's startin t' think at we was lost." Then he tilts his head to the side, "Team fath'r?"

Nicodemus narrows his eyes. "Novice, the mouse on the tapestry lost many a battle, but he never thought of himself as lost."

Saja seems to perk up slightly upon hearing the two's conversation, a smile hidden beneath a mug. That smile dissappears as he peers at the contents of the mug. "Mmm...should have gotten wine, at least..." he mumbles, before looking to Novice and Abbot.

Eithne's ears flick upward. "Just what is going to be done, Father..?" she ventures.

Antioc asks again, "Team fath'r?"

Nicodemus looks between the two novices. "It never ceases to amaze this old beast how much energy and how little patience exists in the bodies of the young."

Nicodemus says, "Magramba's report indicated they were lost weeks ago. So, this is not hot pursuit, such as when the stoat tried to goad us a few weeks back."

Antioc narrows his eyes, "Aye fath'r. I know th' stoat. 'Ad th' pleasure of spendin th' night wit' im."

Nicodemus says, "Therefore, instead of rushing blindly into actions poorly thought out and failing as a result, we shall gather those among our Order and our residents, guests, and friends, and choose where best to send one or more groups to find our missing brethren and effect their retreival."

Nicodemus rubs his footpaws again. "The other alternative is to have many beasts flailing alone without any sort of plan, likely losing a portion of them to further mis-hap, and not finding let alone recovering our friends. Surely, nobeast here thinks that approach makes any sense."

Antioc shakes his head, "Aye fath'r. I see what ye mean." He thinks for a moment, "I c'n try t' get back t' me old crew...find things out 'ere..."

Nicodemus says, "If you can send inquiries, that would be excellent. But if you dash off, we'll lose your expertise and be weakened accordingly, unable to use what your inquiries would turn up."

Corbyn rubs his chin, looking to be in thought

Nicodemus starts to put his socks back on. "I wish my wife were here. Her company is deployed, though. However, I have contacts too. Among the beasts, including those of ill repute, for whom I've built their homes these many seasons."

Antioc shakes his head, "It wouldn' work like 'at. I'd 'ave t' be wit' 'em per'snally. They likely think I be lost at sea." He takes in a deep breath, "An' I know 'at there be beasts what wanna 'elp, but, some 'o th' places what need t' be checked...they'd be enslaved on th' spot fer not bein' verminous..."

Nicodemus says, "And we'll send word to the Long Patrol, who can rapidly get it to the Mountain, and request Bottlebrush's support as well."

Nicodemus says, "Antioc, such a journey, should you take it, wouldn't be alone."

Eithne speaks up, "If you need a vermin creature to accompany you..."

Nicodemus shakes his head. "Sometimes, I forget that beasts need to hear things many times."

Antioc nods, "Aye fath'r. But..." he lets out a breath, "I don' wanna go alone. But th' wood..." He looks at Eithne and smiles.

Antioc says, "Fath'r...t' deal wit' vermin t' save our friends...we need vermin t' go. S' th' safest way."

Nicodemus asks, "So, where one young Novice can't reliably represent the Order, two together, with a combined average experience less than the one, would do better? I am impressed by your courage and willingness, but we need a plan to use both effectively."

Antioc nods, "Aye fath'r, an' I got one."

Eithne smiles a little sheepishly. "All the same, if you need me, I would not hesitate."

Nicodemus slips his second sock on, and sits back in his chair.

Nicodemus asks, "And, Antioc, does your plan call for you to divulge it in the great hall before we can round up our members and those who can help us?"

Antioc shakes his head, "No fath'r. I'd like t' speak 'o it t' ye in private."

Nicodemus nods. "Ah, such sounds like a much better plan already."

Antioc says, "I learnt 'at th' fewer beasts know a plan th' more likely it is t' work."

Nicodemus says, "Oddly, I learned that the more who know the plan, the better the chance a mistake will be caught before it's too expensive to fix."

Nicodemus says, "But, the plan need only be known to those involved, obviously. I've built many a house with ... entrances that were really exits concealed."

Saja finally smiles. "Well...though I do not know these beasts that were taken...I've never liked slavery. I suppose /she/ would have my head for not offering..." he says. "If you all need a vermin, consider my skills at your service. I /do/ owe this Abbey for their Healer's services, after all."

Antioc nods, "'Ats what I mean fath'r. Less beasts, th' ones what ain't goin don' need t' know."

Nicodemus puts up a paw, "Saja, I am grateful to accept your offer. But, as freely offered. You owe nothing for our help."

Corbyn gives a sad chuckle. "Heh, guess that leaves me outta the gathern' infomation mission."

Antioc nods to the abbot, "Thank ye fath'r. I'll tell ye 'o me plan once I gets it all worked out."

Nicodemus nods. "Then tomorrow soonest, we shall gather our beasts and arrange to recover our lost mates."

Nicodemus says, "Take the time before then to think ... instant responses are often not your best thinking. And we really want all your best thinking."

Nicodemus looks to the tapestry, "Rushing in is a habit broken the hard way for many. He learned it. We can borrow that."

Antioc gives the abbot another nod, "Aye fath'r. I'll work it ov'r t'night." Then he starts to turn to leave.

Nicodemus nods to the ferret. "And merry part to the rest of you as well. As grave as this news is, my body is still old and needs rest."

Saja finishes off his drink, the fox silently pondering the day's events. And to think, he thought he'd find a calm place to rest at in the Abbey!

Antioc gives Eithne a smile before he heads towards the doors to go back outside.

Eithne sinks back into her chair. "Good night Antioc.."

Corbyn rises from his chair. "A very good idea father. My aid still stands, but for now a bit of rest will do a world of good." He nods to those present. "A pleasant night to ya."

Antioc stops at the door and turns back to Eithne, "I'm goin' t' take a walk t' think. Care t' join me in plannin?"

Eithne slips out of her chair. "Alright, sure.. let's do that," she says with a slight nod.