Rats thrown to the Dogs (Warhammer Fantasy)

[Faclan]

Tilea - our setting

Bigger map if you wish;
The Old World

Clan Skryre;
Ratz
We're Ratz
A warlock Engineer would be leading the Research team, with Teesch looking like one of the Warplock, Warpfire, or Ratling team rats - just with a hood instead of a helmet and scrappy leather chest armor with tools. Keeping it small so his skills and personality can grow later.

Skryre Weapon and Research Team I-Claw 036
Abasko Mountains, noon.
Hurry hurry scum!

The air would be positively sparking from the energy being blasted into the dirt and rock of the depression the Research team was currently using. A doomwheel parked between two chalks currently acting as a generator for the project. Why bring a seperate Warpstone generator when this one can drive itself and come with a seat as well. The Warlock Engineer Snick currently sat in it. Shouting orders from inside the puffing machine to the other Skaven moving around with hoses and tools.

"Lower the power by around twenty percent you fools! We want-need to tunnel through the stone not just blast it! Can't tunnel with a collapsed hole!"

If the others made a response it would be hard to hear over the rumbling of the wheel as Snick adjusted one of the dozens of levers and switches to keep the Wheel pumping out its stored energy as the Skaven worked. Snick barely able to keep his personal Wheel under control as he thought of the possibilities of this invention coming through. The Warp Grinder was nice...but a much improved one would be even better! The damn pests in Many Pillars would have entire halls crash down upon them before they could react! Mmm...The amount of Stone he would be able to extract from Queek, his Redhead walking swords, Mors, and the rest of Skavendom was almost too much for him to think about!

Slowly moving another leaver down he looked out from under his bright green eyepeices over to the test device itself. Currently set up on a stand pointed at a selection of rocks carefully stacked to simulate a rough surface. The idea was to be able to make a clean tubular hole before they, well his Slaves, would move the device closer. By the end of the day he had informed the crew that if they wern't able to make a clear hole big enough to walk through and at least ten Skaven down then several of the rats of this team would get to walk back to Skavendom, past all those Humans that Called themselves Dogs. He had made sure to stress that his Engineers would not be spared and it wouldn't just be the Slaves. Which made the slaves work hard to get to see an Engineer left to die and the Engineers for saving themsleves. The joys of power!

None of the Skaven noticing however, because no-one ever looks up, that there were now four sets of four barrels pointing down at them from the hills and small mountains around their depression. Angling downward to point at them. Two of them specifically for the Doomwheel but the other two aiming at the main group of Skaven. And upon a short armored hand dropping down the air was filled with the MUCH louder sound of canon fire and explosions.

-------

Ten or so minutes later

With the twenty one Skaven, Snick included, now thoroughly Organ Gunned into the dirt and more importantly one Doomwheel down the Dwaves of the 2nd Mountain Gunners were pleased with today's work. Currently the Organ Master, Norraec, was polishing his pistol as he watched his troops sift through the former Skaven camp. Making sure every disgusting rat-man got an extra axe to the throat to be sure before he whistled to signal it was time to move on. His rear guard had reported that a group of Dogs were on their way anyway. They would probably want some information on the slaughter here. And Norr would be more than happy to explain the foul sorcery that they had blown away today. So holstering his silver pistol he circled his hands as the Organ guns were rolled down toward the road toward the Dogs. To give them a report of slaughter before they returned to scouting.


And once the Dwarf soldiers had left the camp completely shadow-y eyes would likely see the pile of rocks the Skaven had been experimenting with, blown away from the initial volley, move and shift before a single Skaven paw stuck out it. Scrabbling until it was fully off. A single Engineer in a hood and tool apron gasping and coughing as he rolled out of the rock pile and laid on the ground breathing. Seemingly the only survivor. Slowly pulling himself up to look down the road the dwarves had taken and pant. Probably trying to consider his options of how he was going to die. Either murdered by Dwarves or Humans or some animal that prowled these mountains at night.

(Feel free to go talk with the survivor Llau as Prez talks to the Dwarves.)

[Mr. Prezident]

(As i wrote my idea changed a tad bit hope you enjoy e'erbody)

Captain Dravien:

SPOILER: Click to show

The Black Company
Abasko Mountains
Investigating artillery fire

"Dwarves," Ethillion said plainly.  Dravien stared impatiently waiting for the hawk-like elf to continue.

"They were striking a specific target from what I could ga-" an angry looking goblin interrupted the wood elf with several loud coughs before Ethillion continued "from what we could gather.  Our best guess was the skaven."  gordob nodded approvingly.  Dravien could honestly care less about their feud.

"You two will report back to Wyrnald.  The rest of the company will continue forward and confirm your findings," Dravien's voice was firm, but neither party looked pleased.

As the pair sauntered off to let the General know what the situation was, Dravien turned back to the ragtag company he had the misfortune of commanding.  Wyrnald had entrusted him as Captain knowing only he could manage it, but it wasnt easy.  He had to be more cruel and terrifying than an ogre.  Every soldier present was the worst of his kin, thrown into the "black company" for fighting, killing, and stealing from his brothers-in-arms.  Most had questionable backgrounds before even joining the Dogs of War but there brutality and selfishness had earned them a special place amongst the army.  Dravien prepared himself briefly before adressing the anxious troops.

"Listen up, shit-eaters!  Seems like some dwarves have been skulking around these parts.  The cowards didnt want to face us, but they left some rat carcasses up the way...we are going to see if they have anything valuable. Maybe we can find some information on skaven wealth for the army."

A large man with a scowl on his face cleared his throat, spitting a good bit of phlegm on the forest floor before responding, "Mefinks dem organ guns did a right bit of killin', huh?  Prolly not much to find..."

Dravien frowned, holding a spike of anger back.  He was particularly not fond of Bert.  He never lost the mindset of being a bandit, and the Captain suspected him in more than a couple of "accidents" amongst the company.  He was the very worst form of mercenary there was. 

"We will press forward.  As much as i appreciate your advice, bert, I am the captain here," Dravien asserted himself, not about to let bert demean his orders in front of his soldiers.

Bert turned red as he prepared to respond before Gorlitz, a particularly large black orc, gave him a glare that could make a dragon flinch.  Smiling, Dravien wondered how it was he could find an Orc more likeable than a fellow human.  Gorlitz was very reserved, but he was ferocious on the battlefield and as far as the Captain could tell he was fairly intelligent for an Orc.  He had his own sense of honor, and the situation involving the fellow Dog of War he killed was one of the most tame cases of The Black Company.  Besides as long as Dravien proved his valor and strength, and allowed Gorlitz to be the vanguard of the company, Gorlitz was loyal to the grave.

"Alright you filth, get your asses moving!" Dravien commanded, watching contently as The Black Company marched forwards.

He would mold them into a formidable fighting force so that The Black Company would be heroes of legend as opposed to the degenerate malcontents they now are

[Llau]

Krin:

SPOILER: Click to show

Krin Darkfang of Clan Eshin
Gutter Runner
I Spy With My Red Eye...


He had watched the attack on the Skrye's camp from his perch in the tree branches of a strong oak tree, hidden from prying eyes. Earlier that day, he passed the camp on his way for several assigned assassinations that were marked by Clan Eshin, and the Gutter Runner made a mental note about the Skrye camp. He was planning on stopping by their camp to ask them about weapons before heading back to the Caverns of Unyielding Shadow, but alas, those damn dwarves always had to ruin such good things. The loud explosions was what caught his attention on his way back. He quickly picked up his pace into a run, jumped into the trees, and eventually stopped at the treeline to look on. At first, he thought it was due to the Doomwheel, but he wasn't surprised to see who caused the explosion. He watched as the Dwarven soldiers moved through the destroyed camp and the Doomwheel, and watched as they took their axes to the injured Skavens' throats to finish them off, or to make sure they were dead. He clenched his sharp teeth as far as his jaw would allow, and tightly grasped the tree trunk he held, digging his long, sharp claws into the bark, while he gripped the handle of his long steel clawed weapon he held in his other hand. It took him a lot of patience to not jump down from his hiding place, and kill half of the dwarves before they even realize what was happening, and disappear before they could even spot him. His breath caught in his throat, the idea was so tempting, and perhaps he'll finally be promoted to the rank of Assassin...he was so close...he can almost taste it. A small grin spread across his lips, baring his teeth somewhat, but he made himself calm down and forget the desire for more kills he could add to his list. For now, at least. The black-furred rat man was a killer, and one who was both feared and envied by all, as well as trying to be one of the best - if not, better than the best assassin. His every kill was in the name of Clan Eshin, as well as for Deathmaster Snikch, Lord Sneek, Lord of Decay and Nightlord of Clan Eshin.

Instead, he continued to crouch on the thick branch, and quietly listened to the soldiers. His ears perked beneath his cowl, when one reported to the other, who must have been the company's leader, about how the Dogs were on their way. He watched as the soldiers left, heading toward where the other company was located. He waited until they disappeared from his view, and gazed back to the camp, and scanned it carefully for any signs of life. He stopped surveying the camp when he spotted a pile of rocks shifting, and then moved when a Skaven paw stuck out. Oh? A survivor? He thought, ears perking and a brow raised in surprised. This certainly wasn't expected. It was hard to believe anyone survived the initial explosion, let alone the throat-cutting the dwarves were doing. Ah well, no one, besides Clan Eshin, ever bothered to be thorough when it comes to kills. He jumped down to see this survivor close-up, while the Engineer rolled out of the rock pile and laid on the ground for a while. Moments later, he stopped in front of him, as the Engineer pulled himself up to peer down the road where the dwarves went off too.

Krin smiled a little, still amazed how the Engineer survived the attack. “You know what? I wanted to stop by your camp after I was finished with my busy day to talk business, but then this happened," He sighed in annoyance. "I never thought anyone would survive an ambush like this on your camp,” He gradually crouched down in front of him, and picked up a piece of the destroyed Doomwheel, studied it for a moment before carelessly throwing it behind him somewhere. “You're rather lucky to survive all of that...”

[Faclan]

Norraec, Master of the 2nd Mountain Gunners
Abasko Mountains, road down, noon.
Mangy dogs...

Flicking the sparker he had used to light his pipe before slipping it back into his Pouch Norraec nodded. Watching as the Organs were successfully secured in their mounts for transport before they were levered up by the Engineers who would use them. It would be a long walk with them but proper Dwarven craftsmanship would make it bearable. And the fact that they were used to send some Skaven to hell sure made the pulling of the guns more worth it now. That would surely silence the Commander who said taking four was too much for scouting. A chuckle and puff of smoke snaking out under his helmet as he thought of that before adjusting his mace and walking down the hill.

Still needed to talk to those Damn Dogs.

And judging by how he could see them moving up toward his team in rough ranks and with seemingly incredibly little discipline sure made the name accurate. They seemed to have the ranged soldiers just right with the melee ones too and weren't grouped together by position or species, by *insert Dwarf god*'s Beard. These dogs were getting more and more mangy by the week. At least they still mostly fought for what was good. Mostly.

Moving around to be in front of his cannons he spotted who he assumed to be the leader heading forward to meet him. Puffing another puff of smoke out from under his helmet he held his pipe in one hand as the gradient of the hill thankfully made him not too much shorter than the Human. The man probably stopping just out of sword reach as Norraec nodded.

"Aye Dog? Come to check on 'ta Firewerks? So Sawry ya missed the Thaggoraki Barbecue."

(Aplogies if that's not how Dwarves in WHammer speak)


Teesch, Skryre Engineer
Abasko Mountains, test clearing, noon.
So screwed.

Lil Hood Rat

Doing another check of his nose and whiskers as he hacked up a bit more dust from his hastily scrabbled together hidey hole Teesch once again gave thanks. Thanks to the Horned Rat or anyone else who was looking out for him there that the Dwarves didn't check that rock pile. His mind was distracted from his praise by the pain in his left shin but he tried not to let it stop him from offering some more praise. He was alive! He had outlived Snick! That could put him in position to graduate to full Warlock Engineer! Praise the Great Horned Rat!

But he heard fabric rustling in front of him so he looked up from the praising and his tool apron to see an Eshin rat right in front of him. Armed. And looking down at him with a sinister smirk on is snoot. Oh GHR NO! Snick had somehow predicted this and he was going to have his tail carved off before being strangled to death by it! No! The Engie trying to backpedal crawl away from the poised predator and wave a hand up as he juuust started to 'no-no!' beg for his life before the Assassian spoke. Making him stop after a little bit of fruitless skittering to listen. A few blinks after he was done the Engineer would err and umm before squeaking out a response.

"Y...you wished to do-do business Eshin?" Making him look around the ruined camp with the many Skaven bodies littering it. As well as the smoldering remains of Snick and his Doomwheel. Quickly looking back at the Assassin but not looking him in the eyes. "Neither did I...Praise be that I did. If you wish-want you can take anything the Dwarf-things left." He really hoped that would distract the other enough for him to get away. Teesch attempting to standing using the rock pile for support but his hissing seemed to show that his shin was pretty hurt. Poor little rat. "Lucky yes-yes...hope some of the experiment did as well, Lord Claw (Skryre 2nd in command) wanted results soon." Teesch walking sideways to try and keep the Assassin in his field of view as he limped over to where the Tunneler had been set up. Also thankfully able to see the road in case he needed to try and make an escape. Still not convinced this Eshin wouldn't just murder him in some horrible way still...though if he wanted too its not like Engie-boy could stop him.

(There would be several bits of Warpstone about and likely semi valuables or Warptokens on the dead Skaven, unfortunately the armor and equipment of Snick would have been completely obliterated when he was double Organed. I'm sure you'll be reasonable with what you can loot Sheep :>.)

[Llau]

Krin Darkfang of Clan Eshin
Gutter Runner
Intimidating Others Is Fun


He continued to smirk, enjoying the fear as it radiated off of the Engineer. When he heard him beg a little, he replied hastily, “Yes-yes!”

A sinister chuckle.

“If you were marked, then we wouldn't be having this talk.” He paused, tapping his claw somewhat against his snout as he watched the frightened Skrye stop skittering away from him. “I don't make the habit of talking to those who are marked for death like most.”

He stood and took several steps forward at him, not in a threatening away, but it might seemed that way to the already frightened Skaven.

Krin tilted his head. “I did want to do business with you...” He glanced around the camp, and then back at him. “I wanted a weapon made, but looks like it will have to be another time...especially when the Dogs might be coming here soon.”

He eyed him in amusement, watching as the Skrye had difficulty standing on his leg. His question of if the Engineer was injured was quickly answered, as he continued to look on when he started limping toward the Tunneler.

“You should tell Lord Claw it was an explosive result.” He laughed like a nut rat for several moments, and then his laughing subsided eventually. “If you survive that is...”

He gazed around again, following the Skrye, picking up a piece of Warpstone off the ground, and placed that in a pouch he used for a variety of small items. He then stepped beside one of the dead Skavens, and searched for a moment, keeping watch on the Engineer, as he felt around until he pulled out some Warptokens. He stood up glancing down at them briefly before putting them into the pouch as well. He wasn't much for looting, but these would pay a good price at the market.

“Hmm?” Krin gazed at him carefully, noticing how the Engineer looked beyond him, and then he too, glanced back toward the road. A smirk. “Wanting to escape? To limp away from me as quickly as your injured leg would allow you? Ha! You don't even know which way those Dwarf-things went! You could very well walk right into them, Skrye.”

“How long do you think you'll survive out here? Alone? With not only the Dwarf-things, but the Man-things, and animal predators will be stalking about at night.” With another tilt of his head, he pointed lazily back toward the road. “But...you are free to go. If you think you can survive long enough alone...then go.”

He didn't care about him at all. What he did care about was getting a new keen weapon of some slash and stab variety.

[Mr. Prezident]

(Sorry havent been feeling satisfied with my post but i decided to just bust it out even if its not perfect)

The Black Company
Dealing with dwarves...

The Black Company marched along the trail, Dravien in the lead.  He had spotted the dwarves waiting for them just up the path.  He wished they had just moved along;  Dwarves did not care for men with no loyalties.  He doubted the dwarves liked the mercenaries much more than they like the Skaven. He wouldn't be entirely surprised if there was bloodshed between them.  Grunting as the band grew closer, Gorlitz commented something about the 'stinkin dwarves'.

As the company approached, the dwarf leader addressed him in a mocking tone Dravien expected. He was not phased. He had heard far worse on his travels.

"You dwarves are awfully far south (?) of your normal hunting grounds. Dont forget you are still in the territory of the Pack. I suggest you clear off before individuals more unsavory than myself find their way to you," Dravien said bluntly.

The Captain didnt want unnecessary bloodshed but the Dwarves had to be reminded of their place in these parts. Besides, the Black Company outnumbered the dwarves and despite their lack of discipline they were a mean-looking group. To Draviens dismay, they took his words the wrong way and had fanned out slightly in such a way to have a solid front if a conflict occured. Bert strolled up to him slowly, leaning in close so the dwarves couldnt hear his whispering.

"Cap'n...4 organ guns...thats a good bit o' gold. Why dont we 'relieve' dee's fellas to teach em a lesson?" the words rolled off berts tongue like that of a snake. Dravien ordered him back in rank without another word.

[Faclan]

(Its all good Prez.)

Norraec, Master of the 2nd Mountain Gunners
Abasko Mountains, road down, noon.
Someone's got some brass.

Adjusting the pipe in his mouth before removing Norraec pointed back toward the depression between the moutains they had just cleared of the rat plauge. "Someone has' ta be on ta lookout for Thaggoraki infestations. If'n that has' to be us' th'n so be it." Pipe now back in his mouth he looked over the honor less mercenaries. His ears far too full of beard and helmet to hear the suggestion that their guns should be liberated but visually he could see it was a problem here. They had slow guns to try and move out of this area. And these mercenaries greatly outnumbered them. AND they had no honor. His gauntlet encased fingers would drum on the pipe before he spoke again.

"But I'm sure th't you were coming ta deal with the issue yourself. Feel free ta take what ya wish from the'r former camp an' we'll be on our way." Signaling back to the other dwarves who were eyeing the mercenaries intently they started to move off. Norraec moving sideways to keep himself between the mercs and his guns. His none pipe hand just happened to be resting on his mace for no real reason, really.


Teesch, Skryre Engineer
Abasko Mountains, test clearing, noon.
Panic and fear.

Rubbing the back of his neck while the Eshin revealed why he wouldn't be horribly murdered Teesch had to admit it made sense. Well in this case from the rats own snout it did. Just not in regards to the stories. Long monologues of the good of the Clan and why the targets death would be justified if they were killing another Skaven. A speech as the target was lowered in a vat of acid or fire as the Eshin took all their stuff. A little shudder as he tried to get his mind off those stories of Eshin fame and held his paws near the barely glowing remains of the Tunneler.

Too hot still.

Moving around the other side so he could keep watching the Eshin Teesch would hiss quietly as he crouched down and worked on slipping his apron under the remains of the device to try and pick it up. The assassian talking about buisness before be mentioned that the Human Dogs may be arriving. Making him nearly drop the sparking rod. "The man-dogs are coming!?" Making him look down toward the road and then back to the Tunneler. Weighing up the chance that he could manage to get back to the Marsh with this in his hands with his injury. Or what Lord Claw or one of his underbosses would do to him if he returned empty handed. Probably getting more sinister giggles from Krin as Teesch was wracked with trying to decide how he wanted to die.

Perhaps trying to take his mind off the terrible situation he found himself in or trying to enlist some assistance as he kept holding the rod with his apron. "A weapon-sticker you say? I could make you-you one Eshin." Another glace to the road. "Just need to get out of here and get tools-forge." A long shot to be sure but the Assassian had revealed something he wanted, something that Teesch could provide for his own skin. Erring a bit he tried to sweeten the deal. "Maybe-yes an auto carving blade? Or a blade with a reservoir of that venom you all love." Hope he didn't take that the wrong way...

He was too busy panicking during the Eshins joke and gigglefit which was for the best but his very real telling of the straits Teesh found himself in made him gulp and start to breath more havily as he desperately clutched the rod, thankfully cooling down. He really was stuck between a hard place, the Dwarves who would never give him any kind of mercy - some gold feed blades if they were indeed on their way that maaaay not kill him - and finally an Assassian of shadows and mist who could cut his head off, take the device, and then just poof in a smoke cloud and be up the walls of this place in seconds. Starting to have a little panic attack he was-was.

[Llau]

Krin Darkfang of Clan Eshin
Gutter Runner
So many ways to die, but one way to live


Krin cackled in amusement, as he watched as Teesch panicked even more when he told them about the Human Dogs might be arriving. He eventually stopped laughing at the Engineer, and listened to the proposals. He slowly moved closer to him, pondering about the deals that he could get if he was able to escort him out of here.

"Hmm." He thought about it for a moment. "Both would certainly pay for my protection services, Skryre."

He went on, saying "An auto carving blade will get you far away from here, and a blade with a venom reservoir? You'll be able to see your home again in one piece, friend." He smirked as he continued to watch as the other rat man was having a little panic attack. He stepped a little closer, and quickly held him by the shoulder. Maybe a little too hard. He didn't know, and didn't care.

"You do well to stop panicking, Skryre," he warned, "Ones who panic tend to not do well, or survive for long. If you keep panicking, I'll kill you myself and leave...maybe take that rod with me too to bring back to your clan for an award. I imagine they would want it back, yes?" He laughed, releasing him, and turned around to start toward the road, but stopped to pick up a thick branch that was blown off of a tree at the camp. He brought it back over to him, measured it with his keen eyes of where it would stop underneath the Engineer's arm pit, and used one of his sharp swords to cut it halfway for him to use.

"Here," he practically shoved the walking stick at him for him to take. "Use this." He started to walk, this time, not stopping, but not moving fast either.

[Faclan]

Teesch, Skryre Engineer
Abasko Mountains, test clearing, noon.
We have movement!

Despite all that had happened so far Tees couldn't help himself taking a step backwards when the Eshin moved in on him again. Hard to think that the Assassin was going to do his assassin business you know? Other business was being discussed though so that should have calmed him down...but he seemed to be a nervous one. When the Eshin was done with his response to his proposals he nodded and attempted a weak smile. "Good-good, glad we have an arrangement then. Just need to get back." He still seemed pretty shaken and nearly jumped when the Eshin actually touched him.

The advice and threat were both good. And Teesch nodded as he took a few deep breaths and then nodded again. "Ok...they would but we have an agreement for trade-weapons." The other really had all the power here but that wasn't anything different than normal for Teesch. So while the Eshin wriggeled off to get a walking stick for him he carefully tapped the Tunneler, shaking his tail happily when it was no longer burning to the touch. Now he would be able to carry it much easier. Which soon turned out to be very important when the walking stick was shoved in his direction. Fumbling a little trying to move both sticks around so he could walk he was soon moving after the Eshin...toward the road.

Remembering the other rats advice he attempted to stay calm as he walked. Tunneler held in his free hand while his other helped him move along. He was behind the other but wasn't being left behind. The other probably had a good reason to head toward the Dwarves and the like...maybe they were gone? Maybe he could get some more info if they had a long walk back. "Teesch by the by Eshin - though if tell-telling me your name would mean I'd need to be killed then uhhh...don't tell me."

[Mr. Prezident]

The Black Company
Clearing the area

Dravien replied no more to the dwarf, it wasnt worth the trouble.  Instead he gave orders to the troops, "Scouts prepare to head out to the Skaven camp, i dont trust that dwarf any more than i trust a rat-man.  The rest of you will wait for my signal to move up, do you all understand?"

The Captain gave them a stern look as they grumbled and grunted in response.  As he prepared himself for what was next.  He didnt expect them to listen for very long but he didn't imagine a few leftover skaven wouldnt be much of a problem.

As he finished speaking, Etillion rode up on a horse.  Alone.  Dravien took a deep breath as the elf started, "Wyrnald acknowledges and wants us to see to clearing the area, but avoid engaging dwarves or anything unexpected."

"You are a bit late," Dravien mocked, pausing momentarily, "where is gordob?"

As Etillion stammered, Draviens voice grew cold, "Listen, elf, if that goblin its either your ass or mine.  Who do you think will be taken care of accordingly?"

The wood elf gulped before Dravien ripped him from the saddle, "You are coming with me, elf."

"Wh-where are we going?" Etillion stammered.

Dravien grimaced at the coward, "hunting for rats."

---

The pair stalked through the treeline, settling for a brief moment. Their prey hadnt been hard to spot. Dravien couldnt help but think about how those stupid, arrogant dwarves were more sloppy than they cared to admit. Dravien and Etillion hadnt seemed to have been spotted yet but Dravien didnt know if other Skaven might be lurking about. As he envisioned the best method of taking the rats alive and gleaming any info, the sound of feet and clanking armor in the distance. Gritting his teeth, the Captain knew it was the Company.

"Imbeciles!" Dravien growled.

He briefly pulled out a horn to call everyone to action. Hopefully the scouts could make it in time to delay or capture the two skaven. The Captain looked at Etillion while grabbing him by the collar, "Bring me that horse quickly or your punishment will be worse than when you joined this forsaken Company."

Dravien had never seen the elf scramble so quickly for anything. The Captain turned back to the Skaven, hoping his foolish malcontents hadnt ruined a potential opportunity. Thinking quickly, he unlatched his crossbow, intending to maim the uninjured Skaven and thus the one that could still be a threat. While he was a fair shot, he questioned his accuracy at such a range, but it was worth a try. He saw some of the scouts emerging from hiding, attempting to close on the Skaven as their Captain aimed his crossbow. The familiar THUMP accompanied the sailing arrow. Dravick hoped for the best...Wyrnald would have his ass if he ruined a good opportunity for gold

[Llau]

(I return. I bring the gift of a post to scratch the RP itch you're probably in need of scratching. >.>)

Krin Darkfang of Clan Eshin
Gutter Runner
Ninja Rat

His ears perked at the sound of an incoming arrow as he walked along the road. He stopped suddenly, grabbing a smoke bomb from a pouch attached to his belt and threw it on the ground, launched himself into the air, backflipped as he grabbed his bow and an arrow and landed on a branch of a tree just after the arrow whizzed by where he once stood. He knocked the arrow and drew the bowstring at full draw, grinning as he looked for a placement shot on one of the mercenaries and released the arrow. Krin glanced down at Teesch.

"Better hide, engineer...unless you can make yourself useful in a fight too!" He told him while he fired another arrow towards one of the members of the Black Company before jumping into another tree and hid as he looked for another placement shot for his next arrow after knocking the arrow into the bowstring.

He was still grinning. He loved the thrill of fighting.

[Faclan]

(Yeeey we can get back to this again Llau Mr. Prezident )

Teesch, Skryre Engineer
Abasko Mountains, test clearing, noon.
Well time to possibly die #3 today.

Judging by the fact that the Eshin didn't reply to his question of names it seemed like knowing that was a bad thing. Good enough for him. The Assassin would probably prefer to just be called Eshin or Assassin anyway, be that unknown blade in the dark they all loved to be. All mysterious and...stuff. He just did his best to keep walking while also trying to formulate the story he would need to tell the Forgemaster under him about what happened. Needed to find the right balance between the truth and embellishments to make himself look good but also a believable tale. Thankfully the Eshin wasn't needling him for fun anymore so he had a little time to think.

But that was soon gone too as he heard the distant clanking of armor, or machinery, both of which he was familiar with - heading toward them. Were the Dwarves back!? He was in the process of looking back at the Eshin before he saw the other drop something and then just vanish. Before a projectile of some kind whizzed right past him to stick itself in the tree next to him.

Thankfully most Skaven don't have real mothers as she would have probably been ready with the soap for his mouth with the curse he shouted out at that.

Barely hearing the Eshin fire back and then say something about hiding Teesch was already attempting to hobble away as quick as he could with the Device. Before he looked ahead again and saw the large group of armed and armored individuals ahead of him. Were he thinking more clearly he would likely assume correctly that with their slapdash appearance and multiracial that they were Dogs. Individuals very likely to not just murder off the bat like the Dwarves were. But as he was in the 'oh GHR I'm under attack again' mode he didn't. And so would make a pretty feeble attempt to turn around and run back to where the Eshin had been which only resulted in him tripping and falling right down on his chest.

Managing to turn around and sit up to at least face this big group as he desperately clutched the Tunneler and his crutch. Just trying to work out what he had done to who to have such a terrible day as this.

[Mr. Prezident]

The Black Company
Attempting to secure hostages

Dravien was rather impressed by the ratmans tenacity. He knew of the skavens numerical superiority in war but he didnt have an opportunity to see an individual skavens ability. One arrow lodged itself between armor, not more than a flesh wound but a good shot nonetheless. The second ripped through another Dogs throat, sending him sprawling and probably killing him.

The Captain notched another bolt to his crossbow. He leisurely strolled into the open as more Dogs descended on their target. Escape was highly unlikely for the ratmen, and they were heavily outnumbered. Dravien had them where he wanted them. He loosed the bolt at the nimble ratman, as several other archers fired haphazardly too. He gritted his teeth, not wanting these rats to be maimed too badly. If they could be controlled, they could be a powerful asset for his Company.

[Llau]

Krin Darkfang of Clan Eshin
Gutter Runner
Ninja Rat
Know when to not fight a battle you can't win...


He dodged two arrows as he handspring a couple of times, but the third one that was fired at him caught him in the arm, sending him dangling against the tree. He gritted his sharp teeth and growled in pain. He looked up, seeing the bolt lodged in his arm and in the tree. He growled, but this time in anger as he tried to pull it out, but couldn't.

“Hey, Skryre! Help-help!” He shouted, a little panicking. He moved around frantically, still trying to get free. If the engineer won't help him, he'll just start gnawing his own arm off, but...he liked his arm, and didn't want to do that if he couldn't help it.

Darkfang quickly looked back where the man-dogs were, and then over at the engineer, then back at the man-dogs when he suddenly stopped moving around.

“Looks like you won't have to worry about making me those lovely weapons...and I won't get to see them,” he muttered. He dropped his bow, looking rather grumpy at surrendering. He raised his hand up, staring back at the man-dogs as he smiled in a "I give up" kind of way.

[Faclan]

Llau Mr. Prezident

Teesch, Skryre Engineer
Abasko Mountains, test clearing, noon.
Even more limp.

They were coming. Or GHR they were coming to slowly cook and...eat him or somthing. Bows were too quick and they clearly wanted to make his death long and painful. He couldn't even go out fighting as all he had were tools, a wooden branch, and the remains of the Tunneler. And he couldn't do what he really wanted to do which was run due to his leg. He...he didn't want to die!

Thought like that and similar were going through his head before it turned out that arrows weren't too quick as one soared right through the air and jammed into his leg. The one he already had an injury too. FANTASTIC! Thankfully for him it was a Shortbow so his Tibia wasn't shattered from it.

Very much unlike the Assassin who had been pinned to the tree Teesch was screaming as he sat there. Probably being quite annoying to everyone involved before he had some thought to put the wooden crutch sideways in his mouth to bite down on to shut himself up. Just shaking in pain and probably fear and sorry as he looked at his leg and then the boots he could barely see in his peripheral walking up to him. Not even looking back at the Eshin after he had shouted for help. Probably not good for their relationship! Silly rat!

[Mr. Prezident]

Llau, Faclan
>.>

Dravien was pleased.  It seemed as though they had captured the skaven.  He approached the prize leisurely as more Dogs surrounded the Ratmen.  He took his time getting to the front as no soldier was dumb enough to kill their trophy. Until everyone was paid their dues all property was under the protection of Wyrnald, on punishment of death, or worse. He struggled to push through the outer ring of spectating troops.

-----

Burt circled the Ratmen, now bound and at the whim of the Dogs. His toothy grin showed his delight at getting to the pair first. He poked and kicked them, joined by a few of his cronies. He was not the most intelligent, but he could tell one of the Skaven was near useless, shivering with dread. The other looked dangerous. But the Skaven were prisoners, and the little ratmen wasnt physically imposing beyond its scowl. He glared at the sinister ratmen with a glimmer in his eye. Time to have a little fun.

"Dey say you ratties are some sorta blight. Ya look like vermin ta me," Burt smashed his boot into the ratmens ribs. Not enough to do real damage, but enough to hurt and potentially bruise the ribs.

Burt continued taunting them for a bit before the lone ogre of Black Company came shoving hos way through the crowd. He stopped briefly, a truly wicked grin on his face.

"I never ate a ratmen before," the Ogre grabbed the whimpering, wounded skaven by the scruff of his neck. The Ogre inhaled sharply before exhaling a disgusting breath onto the poor ratman, "I can smell dis ones fear. He would taste so delicious!"

The ogre continued to hold the skaven uncomfortably close, as if he was contemplating if it would be worth the punishment to consume the creature. He stiffened, however, when he heard Dravien's voice. He quickly dropped the ratmen and scurried out of the Captains way. Stepping in front of the skaven, he scrutinized them with a hardened look on his face.

[Faclan]

Llau Mr. Prezident

Teesch, Skryre Engineer
Abasko Mountains, mountain path, just after noon.
Foot in his mouth.

One would think that because he wasn't dead yet Teesch would be happy. But as more ad more of these dirty, rich coming from a Skaven, fighters started to surround him. Still clutching his shin with an arrow stuck in it he would try not to look any in the eye. His hood long since fallen down onto his back to show his tiny rat head. Perfect for macing! If thats what the bossman decided was going to happen to him. A certain set of boots however was now standing right next to him. Before moving around to size him up. Thankfully not trodding on his tail yet. They were ropes and chains being swung around but they seemed to be waiting for something. Probably some officer to come and decide who was going to die first.

He looked to the side at a muted thump as the Eshin was kicked in the ribs. Teesh's arms quickly going from his leg to wrap around his chest in case a kick was headed his way. A little bit of protection at least. The Brutish Human who kicked the Eshin seemed to turn his eyes toward him, before the rumbling of somthing even bigger came from him. And picked him up off the ground like he was a leaf. Teesch barely making a squeak of surprise before his snoot was right next to that huge mouth.

The breath was almost enough to render Teesch unconscious as he hacked and struggled as he was held up there. Trying just to hold his breath and stay awake from this close encounter. The mouth was easily big enough to at least fit his head in though. And he really didn't want to lose his head tonight. So he would try to grab that chin and push himself away from the beheading maw. He probably would taste delicious but he was too busy holding his breath to reply. That is until he was dropped onto the ground. Roughly. Ten feet down

Unfortunately for Teesch landing right on his arrowed leg. Which would snap the majority of the arrow shaft off and drive the point deeper into his leg. Which would get a fresh set of screams from the Engie as he rolled on the ground. Some words in broken Imperial filtering out between the screams. "Y...you you goldless maggot-scum!" Probably not the best thing to be shouting when surrounded by those said scum.