Closed The Big Bad Wolf

[Sevris]

1st Day of Winter 512 A.V There was an order given. Sevris had earned himself into the arms of a company with his help in the attack from the Rising Dawn. His company was of simple men. Not entirely driven to madness by the god Rhysol. Some of them Sevris remember working guard duty with, as ways to earn a living. He yearned to have his name more renowned, and to live a little better. He had to get himself a new slave, for his had run away, but he would be having his Ebonstryfe friends be looking for her. But in the meantime he would be showing up for a mission. He put on his armor, it felt light which was what he wanted to feel like in this Scale Mail. He attached his new Two Bladed sword, which was much better condition then the ones he had borrowed from the Stryfe. But with that aside, he took a deep breath, and went to go meet his new company. He had to meet them by the canals pretty early in the morning. Sevris had used his own intelligence to figure out what the Commander had in mind. The earlier they went, they would not lose the light. They would be picked off just as quickly as they had come. He arrived on the scene with his new commander. Commander Ty Guss, his company included a few Apprentices such as himself, and a couple of Soldiers armored in their Brigandine armor. That meant that this was a dangerous mission if it needed a full company. Just how bad were these wolves. He would hear as they were about to be briefed. "As you have a heard, our company have the great pleasure of ridding the city of wolves. But just not any ordinary wolves, but a pack led by a an enormous wolf. Ladies I think we found ourselves a Dire." That was good news and bad news at the same time. The glory of taking down a Dire was rare, seeing as they were not common in Ravok. So this was indeed an interesting mission. "But do not let that confuse you. Rather if its Dire or not, doesn't make it any less dangerous. We don't heroics that can get us killed. We eliminate them first, the spoils are ours afterwards. Understood?" The men nodded, " Ok lets move out."

[Styn]

The last weeks had been interesting ones. Moving up from where he had been stationed with the interrogators meant he was getting a lot more sun but his job was less clearly defined then before. It was an odd thing not to know ones place in the world any more. Styn hoped that the ambiguous nature of of his situation wouldn't last for much longer. Just last night he had been instructed to make his way to meet a company of Ebonstryfe mobilizing in the canals for a mission. The details of the mission were not communicated at that time but he was instructed to draw his full gear and expect combat.

It wasn't his normal company, he hadn't actually been assigned one yet. A few randomly placed inquiries had managed to allow him to learn some things about Commander Ty Guss. He was rough spoken with his men but competent and fair. It was unlikely that the man would be familiar with Styn and if he was honest with himself, it was probably better that way. It was time to start a new chapter in his life. Less was learned about the members of the squad, Styn had very few contacts with any of his fellow soldiers. Social skills weren't exactly a strong suit for him right now either, he still felt disjointed at times, at odds with who he was supposed to be now.

Styn readied himself as these thoughts and more floated across the surface of his mind like stones thrown into a stagnant pond. There was calmness to his motions, one born of long routine. He had acted a soldier for most of his life and his new spartan quarters in the Vitrax were no hardship. House Judicar wasn't so rich or pampered as that. Quick movements washed his face and cleared what little sleep remained. A quick shave and body rinse were going to be all he had time for today, it was to be an early start.

The laces on his boots finally done up finished his attire. Stopping by the armory he drew his gear and made his way swiftly to the meeting place. The sun had yet to break over the horizon in anything more then a glimmer, but the streets were well lit enough. As always, it was a bit of a wonder for him to be under an open sky. His awe bordered on nervousness, then again four years in a dank dungeon would do that to the best of men. As always, even in winter the air was perfect, a warm breeze cutting the early morning chill. Truly this was the chosen land. As always, Styn found himself proud of his city and its god.

"Another beautiful day my lord Rhysol," Styn said to the air as way of prayer.

Still he made his way through the streets cautiously, the city felt different then it had years ago. If Styn's confident stride wasn't enough to deter petty criminals then a set of Ebonstryfe gear would more then clear the way. It wasn't so much that Styn himself was scary as it was the reputation of Ebonstryfe that he leaned on. Still he did his best to put a dangerous and confident look on his face, while trying to look eight different ways at once. A walking kata helped to preserve balance and give an air of readiness. If nothing else his training in unarmed combat did tend to lend his movements a grace he might not have otherwise possessed.

After the troubles this fall it would never do to get complacent. The Rising Dawn and proven they could and would bring the fight into the streets if need be. A fact that even the citizens seemed to feel. It was probably one of the reasons they were doing a mission like this so openly. Those were worries for another day. Although unsure what their task would be, Styn didn't feel that they gathered against the heretics.

The Ravosala ride was smooth and silent. Upon stepping onto the craft Styn sized up the cloaked figure who would be guiding his journey. It was a well known fact that the ravosalamen would sell their mothers for the right price. No doubt many of his brothers would be making their way toward the same meeting place. "You'd be best served to forget I was here," Styn said menacingly as he sat down. He attempted to sound intimidating but even he could hear that it came out flat. It wasn't that his voice quavered, it was more like he was saying the words without any kind of force, by rote. Without passion it was like he was making a suggestion more then a demand for discretion. The ravosalaman only nodded and pushed off this his long poll guiding the craft. Styn detected a faint hint of amusement about the man. Clearly he was unimpressed.

Not letting it get to him, Styn flicked the man a few coins upon exiting the craft and made his way on foot the last few paces to his destination. It was done unthinkingly, such things were so common that they might as well be considered part of the living expenses in Ravok. In another few chimes he was there and could already see several other black armored forms waiting. He was decked in a set of Ebonstryfe Brigantine although his fitness to wear the armor was still questionable, another aspect of the murky situation he found himself mired in. In his right hand, loosely gripped, was his longbow. The black yew was thick and as tall as he was. It could easily be mistaken as a quarterstaff by those unfamiliar with the style, and was currently unstrung. A pack over his shoulders contained most of the rest of his worldly possessions, it was unclear how long this hunt would take.

Styn exchanged polite nods with some of the others and before long a young man approached, carrying a double sided sword. The weapon caught Styn's eye, a sort of staff with a longsword blade on both sides. He didn't think he had ever seen its like before. Styn allowed his gaze to rest on the man and tried to take in as much information as he could. It was an exercise from his childhood. The trick was to ask yourself what you saw and come up with something new every time.

What do I see?

A man younger that I am.

What do I see?

He is dressed like an apprentice.

What do I see?

He carries an odd weapon.

Styn had actually already made that observation, clearly his eyes could use some work. It seemed like he used to be better at this game. Regardless the man seemed to be the last person to arrive and shortly thereafter Commander Ty broke down the scope of the mission. It would seem that they were to eliminate a a wolf pack operating in the wilds near the great lake. It was for things like this that Ebonstryfe was created. Chaining chaos to the cause of Rhysol. The wolves had been dead the moment they started making trouble for the city. Trade was going to be bad enough this winter without interference from the local fauna.

As they walked Styn allowed himself to come up upon the man with the strange swordstaff. He wasn't trying to step quietly and would most likely be heard long before he was in range to speak. "Styn Judicar," he said by way of introduction. The young man seemed more open to conversation that some of the others perhaps. Styn couldn't really put his finger on it and wasn't in the habit of questioning his instincts in the first place. "That's and interesting weapon you have there brother," Styn continued. If Sevris started a conversation, Styn would make small talk until they arrived at the docks on their way out of the city. He would have no problems mentioning this former position with the black sun interrogators, if pressed he would remark that he had not enjoyed the assignment, but would be vague about anything more personal.

[Sevris]

The trip to the woods surrounding Lake Ravok would take sometime. And one of the Apprentices was probably aware of that as they got into the boats to begin their journey. The man's named was Styn Judicar, and it seemed he had taken an interest in Sevris's weapon. He wasn't the first person to be perplexed by the oddity of his weapon. Most people did not use this weapon because it was so difficult to use, and at times it would be more of a hindrance. But if the basics were mastered, it became a formidable weapon based on and defense and offense at the same time. It gave Sevris a lot of options to kill and fight more than one person more easily. "The name is Sevris Lazarin. An heir to the Lazarin family." He gave Styn a quick look up. Sizing the man up with his mind, size and age mattered not to Sevris. He was unwavering to anyone, except perhaps the Ebonlord. They were on their way to the Lake, it would take some time.

[Styn]

So, Sevris Lazarin...

Styn kept pace with the young man, waiting to see if he would say anything else. It seemed that the Lazarin heir was content to march on in silence however. Still by virtue of his name, Sevris had given him plenty to think of. Of course he had heard of the Lazarin family. It was one of the great families in Ravok. the family that had the closest ties to Ebonstryfe. It came as no surprise that Sevris would choose to join its elite ranks, such action was probably expected of anyone with a serious bid to take over after Lazarin. Still it was a family that had risen a generation ago. It was great by virtue of its influential patriarch and a reputation for brutality and no more. Lazarin controlled no especial wealth, had no private army. One could not discount the stature of a family that basically controlled the city right now though.

"What is going on with your voice my lord Rhysol, what cause does this chaos serve?" Styn muttered to himself. He didn't go out of his way to remain silent, there was nothing embarrassing about speaking to ones god. Still he didn't broadcast his voice beyond what Sevris might be able to hear. Certainly none of the other squad members would mark anything more then a murmur from the back. Styn doubted Sevris would appreciate him referring to Lazarin's governance as chaos, and so refrained from elaborating on the comment any further.

The morning streets were practically empty, but here and there a cloaked form moved about, getting an early start to their day. Several armed and armored Ebonstryfe were bound to garner a certain amount of attention. Styn found himself once more adopting a walking kata to enhance his natural grace. His steps already unconsciously measured, took on a fluidity and hint of danger. Each individual motion was a count of the kata which was designed to preserve balance and readiness while moving. They were the hand of Rhysol, physical embodiments of his will and they were moving with a purpose. Those citizens who dared look more then an instant before offering a nod or short bow received the full ire of Styn's glare.

Nothing to see here, go about your business, Styn thought. He attempted to project a sense and feeling of menace but doubted any quickened steps were his doing. The band didn't have time to stop and deal with some merchant's dispute or ease some laborer's fears. The taste of uncertainty hung in the air these days. Petty crime and violence were on the rise as tempers sparked. How much longer before something catches fire? Styn mused idly as the squad entered the docks proper. Or perhaps it was the aftermath of a great fire that the city was trudging through. Things had burned this autumn after all.

The stink of unwashed bodies and fish would be much worse in any other port of Mizahar. In Ravok, the fresh lake breeze banished all but the worst smells. This was the poorest quarters and it showed in the movements of its population. A touch more awe, a tad more discomfort. This wasn't an area that saw regular patrols. Even a member of Ebonstryfe might walk small these days. Of course they weren't alone. A full squad was a force in and of itself and should have little to fear. Styn redoubled his attempts to look dangerous regardless. There was a certain expectation they must live up to after all. Citizens who made way were not favored with a smile, but any who lingered were made to know that their actions were noted.

Before too much longer they came to a vessel and up ahead Styn could see that Commander Guss was speaking to a man who was still wiping sleep out of his eyes. The deckhand was practically bending himself double in respect. Styn noted a sandy haired mop of hair and a the muscled build of someone who did alot of physical labor. The man lacked the easy grace of a fighter however. Styn couldn't make out what the man was saying in the back. Severis might have heard a few snatches as he was closer. Coming once more upon the Lazarin heir from behind, Styn nodded toward the medium sized craft. "This our boat then?"

It was a water glider one of the larger ones Styn had seen. The three full sized hulls were joined with netting and boards that served as walkways between the sections. Each deck had a open space in the front and middle. Most of the center hull was dominated by three half sails, designed to catch wind from any direction. The extra mass of the two subhulls would add stability and might slow down the craft, then again with an extra sail it might be just as fast as its smaller cousins. Styn didn't really know anything about boats. Cargo was strapped to the netting between sections, most likely non perishable goods which wouldn't mind a light rinsing from the spray kicked up by their travel. More fragile and vulnerable commodities were undoubtedly stored below the decks. There wouldn't be enough space for people, but the hollows in each hull would offer protection from the elements.

Styn shifted from foot to foot and kept a watch, it wouldn't do to allow himself to be surprised now.. The rest of the squad remained in his peripheral vision so that he could move to board the ship without holding the band up.

[Sevris]

The company of Ebonstryfe warriors had made it to the ship. It was a small ship but enough to carry their force. The stench was as usual, annoyingly potent. "Is that our boat then?" Styn asked Sevris as he noticed the medium sized ship. The troops began to board and as they made themselves comfortable. Sevris started rack his brains, seeing what he could do to make this a successful mission. He made a quick prayer to Rhysol, in hopes the god would see favor on them. "Yea that's our ride. When we arrive I have a plan we could try to lure the wolves. I'll run it by Commander Ty. Are you handy with a bow?" For what he was planning it would need a bowman for better success. If this wolf was as big as they said it was. Then they would need all the angles to defeat it and its pack. Sevris took a seat and beckoned for Styn to join him. The trip to the woods wouldn't be as long as he thought if he was talking. Time seemed to go by when that happened. Commander Ty took over the ship and began to sail onwards. But Sevris was starting to feel dire about this Dire wolf. Or whatever the hell this creature was. But he would suck it up, and not lose face. There wasn't any room for that type of thinking. It was the type to get yourself and others killed.

[Styn]

Styn hefted the bow and grimaced. "I'm out of practice brother. I can fire maybe six good shots a minute if I'm actually aiming. I'm able to hit a man sized target about half the time if its moving and between fifty to two hundred and fifty yards away. Anything closer or farther is more like one in four volleys." Styn shrugged apologetically. "That being said I'm about average for whats available in the order." He nodded toward one of the Soldiers with a short bow strapped to her back. "If she can use her's at close to my skill we might equal a good archer between the two of us."

It was irksome to admit his lack of experience. Four years slaving in the bowls of Ravok didn't leave much time for archery. His fingers would be soft and most likely bleed if he had to fire too many arrows. When it came down to it, he just didn't feel like himself these days. Something was missing from his life, call it emotion, or ambition, or even interest. He wanted to relish the coming challenge but found himself resigned to it. "Ah my lord Rhysol, what is to be done with me then?" Styn murmured as he moved toward the ship with the rest of the squad.

The water glider's right side butted up against the dock. Or was it the starboard bow? Styn knew almost nothing about boats despite the fact that he lived in a city in the middle of a lake. A fact that he would have to rectify. He would try to make it a point to pay especial attention to the workings of the craft. It wasn't that he wanted to know enough to pilot or crew one himself, but a sort of generalized knowledge of its workings would most likely prove useful in the future. If he saw the opportunity he would try and talk to one of the deckhands. So long as they didn't look busy doing something to guide the ship, swimming in brigantine wasn't Styn's idea of a good time.

Resolution firmly set Styn walked across the plank from the dock to the glider. His first step was a bit unsteady as the walking kata he had adopted for crossing flat ground clashed with his current and more fluid terrain. Flushing slightly and stumbling, Styn ground an end of his longbow into the deck and regained his balance. He didn't actually know any specific kata for walking on a boat. His equilibrium was just slightly off. Hopefully the feeling would fade in a few chimes, not that they were expecting action on the ride over. It was odd but Styn didn't remember ever feeling any sort of rocking when walking about the city, something he had just never thought about before. Indeed the ravasolas were fairly stable as well, almost as good as walking on land in the skilled hands of their pilots.

Coming back to himself - his turn to board the craft having passed a good chime past - Styn surveyed the positions of the rest of the squad. Most of the seating was taken on the closest partition. Sevris and the short bow wielding woman were on the far side. A crewman gestured toward that hull, indicating that Styn should join them. A hot rush of irritation flashed through the scion of Judicar. Don't think to treat me like a child, I can see where the only available seat is, Styn mentally snarled. Frustration seemed to be one of the only things he did feel lately. It was the blond haired boy - the one who had been bowing respectfully to Commander Guss just chimes before - who was attempting to prod him. Styn sized him up aggressively, making it a point to communicate his disdain. Know your place cur, he projected with every fiber of his being.

Far from being cowed the challenge seemed to bring a rise from the formerly meek young man who scowled and opened his mouth to say something. A cough from the center hull snapped his head to the right and the boy paled and mumbled something that sounded like an apology. Well maybe I won't be getting any information about boats this time around after all, Styn though with a faint glimmer of amusement. It wouldn't do to pick on the citizens or take his disappointment of himself out on others. Commander Guss eyed him with a hint of disapproval but didn't go so far as the boat's captain to make it any more obvious. So he would save face, or rather Ebonstryfe would save face. No doubt this was going to be on his permanent record, or maybe some corrective training when they made landfall. Commander Guss was that sort of leader from what Styn had heard.

With a shrug, suddenly empty again, Styn made his way over toward Sevris and plopped down unceremoniously. The graceless drop rocked the boat slightly, not so much because of his weight, but due to their location near the back left corner of the craft. The female Soldier's face blanched for a moment and she shot him a cold glare. No love gained on that front then, he thought without care. The seat arched back slightly and was really just a few pieces of joined board, hammered into the deck. It was more of a bench he could feel - now that his butt was getting used to it - and was probably used to lash down cargo when it wasn't being used for transporting ornery Ebonstryfe.

Sevris was doing his impersonation of a mute again, and the woman didn't look inclined to converse. That really only left Styn to talk to himself. That or Rhysol, Styn ventured to himself. Thinking of his previous evaluation, it might be best to try and brush up on what it was he did know about loosing arrows. In his mind Styn summoned the image of himself with a bow. Not the one he held now, but a more familiar creation. The bow he had grown up shooting, or rather a smaller version since the bow had grown with him. Yew like his current bow though, the best bows were always yew.

He imagined himself notching the phantom arrow, pulling it smoothly from the illusionary quiver at his waist. Fist holding a firm but flexible grip on the nock right above the fetching so as not to disturb the arrow's feathers. He would draw all two and a half feet out diagonally across his chest with his left hand. This would be done in two motions, first clearing half the length and then repositioning his hand to the middle of the arrow to finish the draw. The right hand, far from being idle, would be holding the war bow straight up and down. Snapping the arrow forward first and then pulling it back lightly to align with the bowstring would set the stand. The weight of the arrow would rest on the hand which grasped the bow for only a moment before its partner danced back to seize the nock.

Styn repeated this motion over and over again. He couldn't practice mentally aiming at a target but setting an arrow was something he could conceptualize without trouble. It was easy to forget the basics when your life was on the line. He might not manage to hit every volley but he would be damned if he dropped an arrow. He added variation, if time allowed it was advisable to draw arrows and place them point first into the ground. The motion was similar and yet different. Without needing to reposition his hand he would be able to notch faster. Concentration came and went in starts and stops but he manged to pass what he considered a useful bell of visualization training. Really more of a refresher then anything.

That still left him with plenty of time, it would take another bell at best to reach land and really get the hunt started. Plenty of time to get a better idea of what awaited and what was to be expected of him. "So about this plan of yours?" Styn finally asked as his eyes opened to view a sun well on its way to rising. Weather looks nice anyway, he thought with something approaching contentment.

If Sevris put him off, Styn would try one more time to get the details and then pretend that he didn't need information to perform with excellence. If Sevris started to reveal his plan Styn would be patient and listen at first, but would ask questions as an active listener rather then passively allowing Sevris to control the pace like a lecture.

[Sevris]

Styn wanted to know the full extent of his plan. He was sure it would work. At least he was about 99% sure it would. But anything is possible in the world Mizahar. Who would of known that Dire like creature would be found this close to Ravok. It was impossible yet it made total sense, trying to rationalize these things gave Sevris a headache. But he swept the thoughts aside and said, "Well come with me, so I'll save the trouble of repeating myself." Styn shrugged and went to follow Sevris. They were nearing the shore now and would be there in a few minutes. So he didn't have much time to explain before Commnader Ty completely disregarded his idea for his original plan. They came around a corner and saw Ty sitting standing on the deck. From the corner of his eye he saw them approaching him. "Sir." Sevris said as he and Styn stood beside each other. "What do you want Lazarin?" "Sir I wanted to run a plan by you in order to catch this pack." Ty seemed to think it over for a second. The Lazarin weren't exactly known to be tacticians, but why not. This was a different problem to deal with. "Let's hear it boy." He folded his arms and began to stroke his goatee as he listened." "Well in my possession I have a blood decoy, once we find any recent tracks from the pack we can use that to our advantage. We through it in the water, it should attract the wolves quickly, then we set up an ambush right beside the shore, with archers in the back giving us covering fire." He pointed to Styn as reference. "The rest of the company can flank them, but we want to keep Archer pressure on the giant wolf less its as tough as we think. I believe the giant wolf is the Alpha so the sooner we kill it the rest of the pack should lose face." Commnader Ty Gus seemed to run it over in his head. "That actually doesn't sound half bad. Could minimize losses to zero as well if its done correctly. Good job, we can run with that. Get your things together and I'll run it by the force as we board. We're here." Sevris gave Styn a smirk as they prepared for the boat to land. "Not bad right?"

[Styn]

Styn dutifully followed Sevris as they walked over toward Commander Guss and listened attentively to the plan. It was simple in nature but relied on several things as given. First that they would find tracks of some kind. This in Styn's mind was the biggest hurdle. It was possible that one of the soldiers had a passing knowledge of what wolf tracks looked like or could identify the signs of a large predator. Still even with a skilled set of eyes it wasn't like Ebonstryfe members made regular trips to the lake shore for hunting purposes. Lately most members were busy in a show of force to ease the peace of mind of Ravokian citizens.

Still Styn had been thinking of these things and thought he had a solution. Some of it would be chance though, it was already well into morning and hunters were known to keep odd hours. The second part of the plan called for them to track the pack to a nearby river. There were plenty of rivers nearby of course feeding the lake and being fed in turn. Some of these were small enough to barely warrant the name but that wouldn't harm their purpose. The only problem would be if the pack hunted the lake shores exclusively. The waters of lake Ravok were palatable and would serve as a pretty good water source for most of the surrounding mammal life. It could be that reports had placed the pack deeper into the wilds though, especially since the lake shore was mostly under the direct protection of Rhysol. The divine aegis extended to more then just weather, although it wouldn't push into the wilds very far.

The last point of assumption was finding a good ambush location. Within reason they could deploy a blood decoy upriver and expect a fairly good spread downstream. The exact distance was lost to Styn as he wasn't exactly versed in woods lore or the nature of how blood decoy was constructed. Still it was reasonable to expect a fairly large coverage area. The wolves would be drawn toward the initial source, most likely expecting a dying animal to be trapped in the river. The tracks would give them a good estimate of what side of the river the pack would come from allowing them to place their bowmen on the other bank. A small flanking force lying in wait on the wolf's side could spring out at an opportune moment while the rest of the squad held the wolves off the archers.

A ridge or hill across from such a location would make the position even stronger. A good hiding place for their flanking force in addition to the above would be perfect. Of course it was also possible that they would find tracks on both sides of the river making their placement impossible to foresee. Yet another reason that Styn was so determined to implement a plan of is own. Still it was best to say nothing of it now, he didn't know if he would be able to find what he needed and there was no reason to poke holes in what was probably their best option at this point. Nodding toward Sevris, Styn allowed a smile to stretch his face that didn't touch his eyes. "It's a good plan brother, whatever organization the pack is pulling from this dire's influence will very likely disperse on its death. Wolves are not known for their courage but rather their cunning. Slay the dire wolf or fell enough of its thralls should it fail to appear, either should win the day."

A slight bump announced their landing. Styn watched as a coil of rope was thrown to a man waiting on the dock. Once the glider was tied off the wooden boarding plank was dropped from the docks onto the craft. Styn hustled over to be one of the first off the boat. "I've got a few things to look into while you brief the squad and finalize the plans. I'm sure that you'd like a chance to talk to some of the locals about where they've seen the most recent activity and I won't be any help to you there," Styn said by way of explanation. "Last time I was here there was a little beer hut that will serve as a good way point. I'll be there in about half a bell at the latest." That would give them more then enough time to get a heading and explain the plan.

It really was true, Styn wouldn't be much use in acquiring any useful information. It would be hard enough for him to get what he sought. Point him at a target and you'd have answers in mere chimes. Expect him to wade through dozens of rumors and piece together a true tale? Not likely, Styn thought without any real animosity. Every pawn had its place and his was in action. Whether that be a trick-some questioning or a direct fist to the face was another thing entirely. And I know which I prefer.

As soon as his feet touched solid ground he dropped back into a walking kata. Quick jerky motions suddenly bleeding into fluid, deadly grace. Styn had seen masters move with that dangerous expedience at all times, but it was still a conscious effort on his part. In his mind he counted the stances till arriving back at the starting point. Then it was time to repeat the count and so it went until there were no more steps to walk. He had made a beeline to the tower that overlooked the entire southern trading post. There would be several men on duty, and an Ebonstryfe uniform would go far toward getting him the answers he needed.

There were six guards present when he entered the bottom floor of the tower. The structure was old but kept in fairly good repair, a hint of something fresh and clean let him know that discipline was well maintained. Most likely meaning that the whole place was cleaned down several times a day. An idle guard was a wasted one and duties included cleaning and upkeep of one's guard station. Besides, why pay someone else for something that you could just get one of the guards to do, at no added cost. No one looked to be cleaning right this moment, all of the men in the tower had a bored but wary air. Not expecting trouble, but ready for it.

The chosen spokesman of the day locked eyes with Styn right away. The man didn't look like he was going to be trouble but Styn hardened his face regardless. The men were Ebonstryfe trained, although not members of the elite force themselves. No doubt they would respond well enough to a bit of tough love. The only love a face like that is likely to know, Styn thought to himself uncharitably. The dark haired man was a bit older then Styn, a touch shorter, and looked like his nose had been broken in four places. A broad jaw on the wrong side of jutting gave him a barbaric cast. Despite facial hair regulations, the man could really use a beard to hide that monstrosity.

"I need to know of any hunters you might have in the area," Styn said briskly, cutting off whatever the boulder jawed man had been about to say. The guard's lower mandible tightened slightly, and Styn could see a hint of rebelliousness enter the man's demeanor. A quick straightening of his armor drew attention to the Ebonstryfe symbol emblazoned on the black brigantine. Really now float scum? You really want to do this here? Styn projected. It seemed like he had been threatening people all day and he was doing it again of course. His entire stance demanded obedience and respect. His eyes challenged the guard and found him wanting. His mouth scorned all those not good enough to put on the black and truly serve. This wasn't just a nameless threat though, Styn allowed four years of blood and pain creep into his face, just a touch of madness to tug at his lips. Information gathering was all well and intimidation could get you results at times but this was an interrogation and he had seen the guards type before. Don't make me break that nose again.

"Take him to Gafgar's tent Cecil," the guard barked sullenly. "The damn coward barely goes out anymore though, with the wolves being as they are lately. Don't think that he's going to budge for a black sworn sword brother either...sir."

Styn nodded and followed the other guard out, still moving in kata. The man's disrespectful pause already forgotten. Before too much longer, they approached a tent with a cook fire. Behind the crackling flames sat a sour looking older man, with a scruffy salt and pepper beard, poking a pot of something and scowling. Cecil gestured with his hand and departed leaving Styn to introduce himself. Looking up, the grizzled man - presumably Gafgar - met Styn's eyes and spit to the side. "What do ya want Stryfe?" The man growled.

Styn let the insult pass. The common Ravokian shortening of Ebonstryfe was to be expected from such uncultured louts, but still surprising to hear with one of its members staring them in the face. The man was either stupid or brave, either one would serve so long as he was also skilled. However, he was really going to have to work on his game face, people had been walking all over him today. It wouldn't do for such disrespect to continue."You've been conscripted," Styn said with a cruel smile. "It seems that you're a well known hunter in the area, and the order has need of your talents. Small though they may be." Styn piled on the intensity of his gaze, and the man puffed up with a quick inhale of breath. Yet another hard headed fellow.

"Here now, I aint never being scripted neither," Gafgar declared. "I'm an honest man I am."

"I think a squad of my brothers might change your tune," Styn tried again.

The man squinted at Styn and spat again, to the other side this time barely missing the pot of whatever was coming to boil. "I aint seeing no brothers wit ya now."

The man was actually sizing him up! His father must be laughing somewhere, that sly cutting chuckle, a sad shake of his head. Such a disappointment...again. A memory of the sound was like a fire lit behind his eyes, and faintly on the wind he heard a tune that seemed to make the mental flame dance. Whispers of the song of chaos. Blood pounded and flesh moved without a will to guide it. Styn came back to himself with his right hand around the man's throat and his left bending a dagger away from the space in his armor. A quick press on a bundle of nerves caused the dagger to fall to the ground, but Gafgar's face was already starting to purple and he looked none too steady on his feet. That was the point of a blood choke, it didn't cut off air it stopped the flow of blood the brain. It wasn't easy or reliable with one hand, but Styn seemed to have acquired a rather fortunate grip. What am I doing? Lord Rhysol, what was that? he though with disgust as he released the man with a backward push.

"Double your daily rate in pay, we're going after the wolves that have been disturbing the area. Be at the beer hut in half a bell," Styn rasped still fighting to get a hold of the killing rage that surged through him. "Don't make me come find you," he said over his shoulder, already moving toward the meeting point. He could use a drink.

When the squad showed up he would introduce Gafgar and explain his purpose. A hunter would help them locate tracks easier and would be intimately familiar with the region, besides another bow wouldn't hurt their cause at all.

[Sevris]

The Ebonstryfe company had now departed the ship and was making their way across the shoreline into the woods. The group was on standby while Commander Ty Gus explained the new plan that was going to be put into play. He even gave Sevris the credit to which he didn't actually think he would. Not everyone in the Ebonstryfe was selfless. It wasn't a common quality especially dealing with such a powerful organization such as this. Sevris in the meantime went to go ask the locals about the any sightings of the pack of reported wolves. A young lady out of on old shop had nothing to give him as far as confirming that there are a pack if wolves harassing the area. He did a little bit of questioning but didn't get enough time for to go deeper before he was pulled by the crew for more information Sevris wanted the ambush to be on near shore, so the archers could have a clear shot at the wolves without running interference with trees.It wasn't uncommon for an animal to die on the shores of the beach sometimes. The predators would assume it's their lucky day that they didn't have to search for their food. As the company got the gist of the mission. Styn appeared seeming back out of nowhere as if he wasn't even gone. He walked towards him and asked, "Where'd you go?" "I got us the help we needed, you'll see. Let's head to the beer hut." Sevris shrugged. I guess all will be revealed. In the meantime the company made its move towards the beer hut. The boat trip took longer than expected and the guy including the Commander needed a quick drink, but not to much to be intoxicated. They still had a job a too. So they entered the beer hut where the Commander ordered them to be ready to leave in a chime or so. As Styn and Sevris ordered themselves a drink and begun to discuss their plans on the attack at hand. A man entered the building, no recognition entered any of the people in the huts face except for Styn. Who looked like he had the faintest shadow of smirk. He locked eye contact with the man and beckoned him to come. The man did and came to stand by the two Apprentices. Styn mentioned him to be quiet and stood up to direct his attention to the Commander. "Commander Gus, this is Gafgar. He is one the more adept hunters in this area, and will provide us tracking and cover for the mission." The Commander frowned as he got up from his seat and moved towards them. "Can you follow a command? Because if you cannot, the consequences will be harsh." The man eyeing the company of men, nodded quickly. Noticing the position he was in, he made the smart decision of being quiet and just doing as he was told. "Good. Ok men let's make a move now that we have what we need to track them." The company yet again organized and made a beeline for the woods. As they left the beer hut and was making their way into the woods, Sevris had to say, "That was mighty clever of you to conscript a guy into the cause. Did you see his face? A worthy sacrifice for the mission after he has made his use. You are indeed a follower of our god." They shared a short laugh. Betrayal was common in their line of work, if a persons worth was done. Then they were expendable. So Gafgar began to do his job as instructed by Commander Ty Gus as soon as they made their way into the woods, he was ordered to find tracks near the shore from the pack if possible. For when they did that's where they would set up the ambush. It was only a matter of time.

[Styn]

Styn enjoyed watching Commander Guss in action. There was exactly the right combination of of dangerous and confidence. It wasn't that Gafgar was a difficult man or a particularly disobedient one, it was just that Styn wasn't that scary. It was reassuring to a see a more competent pressure applied with such precision. Styn was on the right track with his approach, he just needed some more polish. The bowman refrained from adding anything on on top of the Commander's demands, concentrating on finishing his drink and exchanging words with Sevris.

He laughed with the younger man as they made their way away from the Southern Trading Post, but was a bit surprised at Lazarin's obvious blood lust. Styn hadn't intended any sort of additional cleverness, other then the need for a local with more familiarity in the area. Sevris would learn that Styn did exactly what he said he would with very little wriggle room. It wouldn't be the first time that someone had mistaken his honest and straightforward approach for some devious machination. Sevris was clearly more of a plotter, perhaps one of the reasons he was able to come up with the initial ambush in the first place. Styn might be able to analyze possible flaws in a plan once it was presented, but lacked the creative spark required to form the initial thought.

As if sensing that he was the topic of their laughter, Gafgar looked over his shoulder and scowled. It was at this moment that Styn noticed a critical lack in the man's equipment. Gafgar didn't carry a bow. "I see something curious brother," Styn muttered making his way to the front of the wedge formation they were using to advance toward a nearby river. He had been moving with walking kata, pacing Sevris near the back and to the left. Truth be told, they had probably been a bit too close for the normal spread of coverage expected out of a true wedge. The idea was to be spaced out, so as not to interfere with line of sight, and to avoid a massive casualty from something like a reimancer's fireball.

Quick fluid steps, mincing over the already tangled underbrush of the wilds, soon brought him to the squad leader's position. Commander Guss gave him an inquisitive look as he passed him near the middle, so Styn stopped briefly. "I'd like to exchange a few words with our newest acquisition. If you don't mind, I will take point for a few kilometers." The Commander seemed to chew on that for awhile, before eventually conceding with a nod, eyes alert and scanning the surrounding area.

Styn nodded respectfully forgoing a salute, which would only serve to mark Commander Guss to any watching as their leader, and made his way to the front. The man at point, hefting a spear, clad in Ebonstryfe brigantine, gazing forward with sharp eyes, turned his glare on Styn. The gaze was thick with disapproval, running over Styn's own suit of armor, pausing on the mark of Ebonstryfe there. "Something to say brother?" Styn said softly, face frozen with menace. I've earned my place just as you have, Styn projected.

"Bark somewhere else pup," the man scoffed. Eyes flickered over Styn's head to the Commander, before he made his way back a position in the formation. So it went until everyone was once again properly spaced out in a double arrow wedge.

"Where is your bow?" Styn said as soon as the Soldier left. The hunter at least would be easier to deal with then a surly Ebonstryfe.

Gafgar looked over his shoulder worriedly until he noticed it was Styn behind him. Whatever confidence he gained from noticing that seemed to leech out of him again, when his eyes slid over the squad of Ebonstryfe following in the bowman's wake. "I ain't got no bow, I'm a trapper. Little things." The man gestured toward his side where he had small pouch. Most likely this contained snare lines, given his insistence that a blank leather bag would be some sort of proof.

Great, just great, Styn thought. Well so much for that idea. The junior Ebonstryfe concentrated on the woods around them. The position of point held a vast amount of responsibility. It would be up to him to provide early warning for the rest of the squad.

The company marched through the woods with the lake to their right, seen in snatches of broken forest. Before too long they came to a river. It was time to get a clearer picture of their situation. Styn felt like he had a better handle on the man now after seeing Commander Guss deal with him. Not every questioning attempt involved hot irons and pincers. Part of being an interrogator was just the art of asking questions. Remembering what Sevris had said earlier Styn spoke up. "Are the wolves active on the lake shore?"

"No," Gafgar said, eyes scanning the ground. "They wander bout circle like on this river most times. Been regular bout it." The man spat to the side absently, clearly looking for tracks or wolf sign.

"The plan is to use blood decoy to lure them into terrain that is advantageous to us," Styn continued.

"Might work," Gafgar ventured.

I don't care about your damn opinion of the operation, Styn though with a flash of irritation. Taking a deep breath to restore his calm, he stopped beating around the bush. "I want a cleared area on his stream," Styn said, unwilling to give the sluggish, knee deep water the title of river. "Preferably something wider and faster flowing then this but an area with less trees is most important. Do you know of anything like that within the normal patrol area of the beasts?"

"Upriver," Gafgar grunted.

"Upriver of the territory?" Styn asked between grit teeth. The man was impossible!

Gafgar nodded. "If they dun find us for that," the man said cautiously. "They be sleeping most the day away."

Well thats a relief, Styn though. It would be some kind of irony to attempt an ambush, only to be ambushed in turn.' "Let me know if you see anything recent," Styn said, lapsing back into silence.

Styn still felt himself overwhelmed by the outside at times. The further they moved into the wilderness the colder it became. A few of the squad were pulling out thick cloaks, something that Styn hadn't thought to bring. Well he would just have to count on shivers to keep him warm. There was a crisp wholesome smell to the air, a fresh, if chilly winter wind rustling the trees. Bird song was muted the further they moved away from the lake, it was like they were visibly moving from summer into winter as trees began to appear with the red and gold leaves of autumn. It must be so strange to be on the edge of Rhysol's hand, Styn mused.

They made good time, Gafgar's reputation seemed well founded at least. Either that or the man was putting on a good show. After a good half bell, the river began to widen a bit, and deepen. Still not much more then a stream, but at least it wasn't something that a wolf could just jump over, or run through without slowing. A few chimes later the trapper stopped suddenly and crouched down near the stream bed. Styn held up his hand to call a brief halt and Commander Guss came forward. Gafgar stood and started moving toward the trees, tongue held firmly between his teeth, a worried frown on his face. Styn reached into a side pouch, removing a bowstring, and with quick practiced motions strung his long bow. With the string tension, the almost six foot staff of wood began to curve inward slightly, at both ends.

Styn spread both feet shoulder width apart and then slid his right foot slightly forward. His left hand dipped into his belt quiver, and just as he had imagined earlier, he pulled out an arrow in two distinct motions. He soon had a two and a half foot projectile notched, and was beginning to draw, when a bush rustled nearby. The motion caused a general limbering of weapons and creaking of armor, as the squad prepared to face off against a possible wolf attack. Gafgar froze at the sound, a fearful moan escaping from him. The flicker of motion was low to the ground, too low to the ground. Styn eased the tension on his bow string as Gafgar stumbled backward landing on his rear end. A brown long eared rabbit, bounded out of the bush, soon disappearing into the woods.

Styn chuckled and many of the Ebonstryfe nearby who had witnessed the exchange did as well. Commander Guss grunted but didn't join in the laughter. Gafgar, already standing, brushed off his pants and spat toward Styn. "How old are the tracks?" Styn asked.

"Day maybe two," Gafgar grumbled. "Didn't think no wolf was there," the hunter boasted.

"Is this the lower edge of their territory?" Styn persisted.

Gafgar nodded and started back up the river. "Keep the bow strung from now on," Commander Guss said and moved back toward his position near the middle of the squad. Word that they had entered the dire wolf's domain was soon spread to the rest of the party. Things would get more interesting now. "Rhysol save, not too interesting," Styn offered up in muttered prayer.