Gravetide Market ~ Open to All!

[Ashari]

Concern drew in Jin's dark eyes as they met Aeris's at her seeming distaste for the flower, and he immediately regretted the action, but tried to plaster over it with a smile as she whispered in return to him and did allow him to tuck the flower behind her ear. Atleast she didn't bat his hand away, that was good. The soft touch of her silken hair was infuriating in a way, for the slave wanted nothing more than to run his fingers through the locks, but he refrained, instead he withdrew the hand and let it dangle at his side as she took to his other arm. When Akuta approached he mulled over her statement of him learning soon enough. It was rather cryptic.

Akuta grinned and blushed a bit as Aeris called her a lady. She was just a slave girl turned alcolyte, nothing spectacular, it was strange for the fair woman to think of her as being anything more than that. "I'm ok, how are you? -- That's good, don't make it easy for him." She grinned. "Oh! And I have your glass piece as well, I was carrying it, got used to it, and didn't realize until I got back to my room. When we return to the Temple you can get it, ok?" The young girl said.

Both of the siblings were quiet as Aeris spoke of Nadia knowing what she was doing as well as the responsibility that they had been placed with. Akuta nodded and Jin spoke. "Of course, I'll do whatever it takes to make sure you both are safe." He said with surity. "Don't worry about it. Plus, she's a big girl, living on the street makes you tough." He winked at his sister.

She smiled. "He's right. I can take care of myself." The girl took to Aeris's other side and walked at her hip keeping pace with the couple. "Jin, did you get a chance to talk to the boys?"

The slave boy nodded. "Yes, as Nadia requested. That's why there are so many more people here. They are prepared at my signal to begin doing as we talked about." Nadia had met with Akuta, and Akuta, in turn, had spoken to her brother who had spread himself thin all afternoon speaking to as many slaves as he could gather encouraging them to come along to the Gravetide Market and prepare for the rebellion. Though the reasons had been vague, everyone understood that somehow this would help the Rafao who they all reveared as a near-god, even if they were slaves.

Within a few burns they had reached Nabob's stall which was bustling with activity. Patrons swarmed all getting food, it was to be an excellent night for the merchant. However, among the slaves were many more guards than usual. Someone had sent a messenger to the barracks to warn their captain of the sudden influx of people, and in response many of the men who were prepared for battle instead took to the streets. "I'll be back, I need to find someone." Akuta said to Aeris and then the skinny brunette disappeared into the crowd.

Jin waved to the merchant as they approached. "Nabob! You demon you, look at these crowds!" He hollared and moved in close to the tented structuer. The young man put out his hand to shake that of the tender. "Are you ready for the festivities?"

[Guest]

Confidence incarnate- the very paragon of the quality of certainty, sentry to everything that occured in the gravetide market. The pure aura of aplomb preceded the man wherever he went, and produced within him a sort of magnetic presence. This was a man who, regardless of his role, was clearly important and therefore the sort who most would enjoy speaking to, if they valued a bit of influence or at least making contact with someone who was possessed thereof.

Despite the confidence, though, the bald-headed and rather rotund fellow was at the same time mirthful, a smile lit upon his face brightly and winningly- one of those souls who were fortunate enough to become wealthy without losing some measure of their human charm. His laugh might be heard across the market, his eyes glittering with mischief and amusement at all times. Confidence commingling with the essence of charm, with all the trappings of wealth, the merchant was likely to be the center of any party.

Dressed in dark and vibrant clothing that was not ostentatious but was definitely noticeable, the merchant nestled firmly at his stall- exchanging greetings and niceties with those whom he knew and introducing himself to those few whom he did not. From the looks of it, those he did not know seemed to be in the stark minority. Everyone who mattered knew Nabob- and the man had an excellent memory for names and faces, which suited him well in his current duties.

They called him Nabob- and surely whispers of his name must fill any place such as this. He turned as Jin spoke, smiling widely and with the charismatic intensity that he was known for. "I won't claim to be a demon, but it would seem that the gods smile upon me." A swarthy chuckle, as he shook the young man's hand vigorously- enough to rattle the younger fellow, perhaps. "I'm always ready for festivities, you know me... ever ready to party, and disappointed if I'm not allowed to." A cheeky wink as he looked toward the others gathered.

"Who might this lot be? Friends of yours?"

[Guest]

Rakhash surveyed the venue before him with a small smile on his lips. Regardless of what ominous events loomed before him, what dangers lay in his path, the young man could find it within himself to enjoy the sight of slaves being given the freedom to do what they want, even if only for a short time. His own family was free, but at times as a boy he had felt as though they were no better than the slaves that milled about before him now. They were gleaning what good times they could from the situation, before drudging back to the lives they lead while Uphuron watched them from high above, an act that could strike chords of familiarity with any member of the citizenry below the nobles. Sighing slightly, the young man found his attention drawn back to the purpose that resided over this trip, the less-than-enjoyable task they were faced with now.

Turning to face the beautiful young woman that had taken the journey here with him, Rakhash’s small smile broadened. No matter the situation, Lianelle always seemed to brighten everything for him. At the same time, however, he felt a kind of worry that had never struck him before he had met the princess. Since waking earlier, the threat that they were to face this day had occupied the young man’s thoughts, and to be more accurate, he had worried himself sick at the thought of the girl being placed in any amount of harm’s way. Rakhash’s protective feelings seemed to be compounded even further by the things they had said before finally slipping into a fitful sleep.

“Seems like an ideal spot for what we were planning, there are definitely enough people here to draw attention,” he said, raising his eyebrows to emphasize the point. Even just looking at Lianelle, he felt a surge of the emotions he had professed earlier, an infusion of strength and belonging that made any obstacle seem conquerable. Knowing that he was loved by someone that, in turn, he loved back, made him feel more conviction in the pursuit of his cause than he had before. He was sure of himself in a way, as he had been when he was chasing down Lianelle’s captor, because he knew now that a part of his life was more complete than it had been at any point up until now. “What is it that Nadia instructed us to do first, again?” Pulling his gaze from the beautiful princess, he peered into the crowd once more, silently awaiting an answer and trying to locate any familiar faces.

[Scheherazade]

Khy'lla, the golden dancer of Anurith's Golden Ram, heard Nabob's robust chuckle before she even saw him; all aplomb, plump and wiggling all over his crowded customers.

A warm small smile crept up her lips as she stared at the plump sandwich vendor who was heartily welcoming customers and friends alike like he was running for a senatorial election. All knew how amicable Nabob was, and Khy’lla, lucky as she was, knew how more than friendly Nabob can be.

She did not hail the plump vendor. The dancer knew Nabob would get to her once he noticed her idling by his stall. And besides, she dare not intrude upon him; she knew how important his customers are for him and making them feel comfortable was not an easy task.

In the meantime, she slightly nudged Alaha’s elbow and discreetly introduced the vendor. “That’s Nabob.” She murmured at Sadyr. “Wish you luck!” And gave him an impish smile.

“Let’s wait for him to notice us, that okay?” Casually, she embraced Sadyr's arm and sauntered near the plump vendor with a friendly smile pasted on her elegantly painted face.

[Gully Drervo]

Alaha held the woman close, delighting mostly in the reputation it was building for him, he thrived on the jealous looks of the people in the market. His large arms held the woman as though she were a precious jewel, a priceless object and his hands showed their lust and poise. They moved over her back showing his fingers incredible dexterity, tickling at various point, squeezing others each movement carefully rehersed to solicit a certain reaction.

He stood near Naobob's stall, gently scanning the crowd while his hand continued its work on the beauty beside him, softly he waited for the sandwich selling merchant to notice him and his company and no doubt hail him. Then he would get some information.

[Aeris Mourir]

Aeris opened her mouth but nothing came out. She didn't really know how to stop the girl without attracting a lot of attention so she prayed, "Anasis keep her safe."

The majestic creature's mind raced with thoughts. She was unsure about the riot with Akuta and other smaller people mingling around. Aeris knew that mobs had a certain type of zeal, train of thought, that was deadly enough to kill even innocent people. However, the maiden had never seen this in real life just heard about it.

As Jin started to raise his voice, the swan slowed her pace, allowing her escort to lead but still be arm-in-arm. Her other hand went to the handle of her whip. She didn't grasp it, just rested it there. It was convienent if nothing else.

The swan was intrigued by Nabob. Aeris could naturally sense that he was a respectable man; maybe even a man to fear if it ever came to that. She nervously rubbed the sweat off her palm onto her skirt. It wasn't the hefty male that was before her sketched out the maiden; it was the atmosphere, the aura of the night.

The woman held her tongue; the question wasn't being asked to her.

[Guest]

After arranging lodgings for the night at the tavern, Murat went outside and headed for the gravetide market, as proposed by the young Maharrem. Looking around the stalls to see whether there was something that could be of use to him. He watched a small gathering of people in from of one of the stalls, where a rather plump man was seemingly praising his wares to those near his merchandise. He came to a halt and took in the sight for a while, not moving from across the street yet, but merely content in watching the proceedings. With a half grin, the half giant shook his head, unwillingly rolling the muscles on his bull-like neck and torso this way. These merchants had always seemed funny to him, trying to get better prices for their wares then their actual value. A game of barter, so to speak.

He took in the faces one by one, that were gathering around the stall, which for him was easy to do, if you almost tower 2 feet above everyone else. His pack he had left in the safekeeping of the tender, instead carrying his shield on his back. Calmly he leaned lightly against a post, his thumb hooked in his belt, a few fractions away from the hilt of his falchion.

[Ashari]

"Then you must be working with one! Great group. You're to make a Rafao's ransom with all this." Jin grinned and wholeheartedly shook the man's hand, and wouldn't admit that he felt a bit ill of the stomach as he pulled away from the vigorous greeting. "Oh, well.. we've got Akuta, but you already know her." Already, the girl was skirting away from the group as she immersed herself into the crowd around them on her search.

"But, she's not the one I want you to meet. Nabob, this is Lady Aeris. She is staying at the Simbahan with the High Priestess, Nadia." Now, Nadia Nabob knew. He had seen her grow up in the streets like the slave infront of him now, as an orphan and gave her free sandwhiches at the end of the night before she disappeared into the night. That was prior to her ascent to the high position within the clergy of Anasis.

Jin pulled gently on Aeris's elbow to present her to the vendor. He smiled wide at the swanmaiden and then turned to Nabob. "She has just arrived here in the city, so I'm showing her around a bit." There was a flicker of something in the girl, something he had seen before -- greatness. She was meant for big things, meant to see things no one else alive had seen. Maybe he wouldn't know what it was, but the merchant could understand that if nothing else.

From beyond the couple before them, he could see another couple working their way from the encircled group. Khy`lla he recognized as a dancer from Yabal's. She, like many of the other beautiful women that lived in the city, were quite attracted to Nabob and his money and power. He flaunted it in a way, but many did not realize how far reaching his fingers were. If Alaha were a wise man, he would recognize the glint in the seller's eyes, and realize what it was. Power. He would know it from his family, from when they were strong and could turn heads in the royal city of Abu`Sahir.

Meanwhile, Murat had just found himself in the hustle and bustle of the crowd, Maharrem at his side. "Ok, I've got to get going before they wonder where I've gotten to, but I'll meet you back here at the Bad Omen in less than a mark. If not.. well.. I'll find you eventually. I don't think they would do anything irrational." However, he didn't look too sure over that statement as he swallowed hard, but, putting on a brave face he grinned. "I'm off!" He gave a wave and then was in the moving throng.

The half-giant could see all sorts of people as they passed along in the late night marketplace, but it seemed they were all milling in one direction, and the name that fell from their lips was Nabob, usually followed with something that sounded like 'rebellion'. There was much energy in the air, and the people seemed abuzz with murmerings, but as soon as they noticed anyone listening in they hushed moreso, leaving the spectator at a loss if they were unknowing of what was going to happen that evening, of what was expected.

Lianelle and Rakhash came into the fray somewhat in the center of it all, since all the activity was in one way or another related to the Amunic Simbahan. Many of the slaves had congregated around the impressive building made of expensive and foreign stones so different from the regular sand stones and washed wood of everything else. "Yes, it does seem that way." The princess said, looking around at all the people. She had never seen so many faces all in one place. "I think there are as many people here in Foreigner's Court as there are in all of Nashreen." The young woman smiled and took hold of Rakhash's hand with a bit of possessiveness and need. She really didn't want to be separated from him.

"We're to find Aeris, and her friends, at Nabob's stall.. that's where everything is supposed to happen." Lianelle kissed her bodyguard on the cheek. "And then, we can go home." It seemed that this idea was the thing that truely spurned her onward. "Oh, look. Over there, is that her?" It was sort of difficult to not spot the fair skinned Aeris in the crowd as all of the other people here were natives and of dark colors from working in the sun. Either way, the other piece to their brigade was over infront of a large merchant.

All around everyone it seemed the guard activity had doubled, if no moreso. Almost all of the men were carrying weapons of some sort, but none were brandished, they lay ready at their hips for defence should the situation arise where they were warranted. They shifted about uneasily, for though their presence was increased, they were still sorely outnumbered compared to the slaves. Even then, few of the slaves carried weapons of any kind. The atmosphere of the place was indeed of hostility, and a few of the guardsmen were starting small spats with the milling crowd, telling them they ought to be heading home, for the flickers drew closer and closer to Gravetide.

[Aeris Mourir]

Her eyes shifted to Nabob's as she was introduced. The woman nodded
her head in respect and acknowledgement, but didn't do anything over
the top. A flicker of fear passed through her body raising goosebumps
on her fair skin. She was completely unsure of how the night was
going to present itself.

Aeris' blackened gaze tore itself from the rather energetic man to
browse the crowd. She realized that the ratio of slave to guard was substantially still in the favor of the peasants. However, that was more guard than she heard about ever attending any commerce gravetide.

The swan maiden's vision fell back onto the man servicing the stall. Aeris was intently listening to what Jin was saying. When he mentioned Nadia, she knew it was for a reason. The unprepared woman was suddenly pulled foward and the red hue to her cheeks brightened just slightly. It wasn't a blush of bashfulness, it was more out of shock.

"I am no lady," she whispered to Jin before she was completely hushed foward. "Nice to meet you Sir ... I've heard much about you" she paused for a flicker, "all pleasant things of course."

Aeris flipped her hair out of her face like it was a living object. She could most certainly use it as a weapon in any battle. Her hair was white for one, not too common in Tazlure and even less in Amun Rah. The only white haired people were much older and their's was thinning to such extent it might not even be considered hair at all. However, Aeris on the other hand, had full, think locks. It gracefully fell in between her shoulder blades, just long enough to do plenty of styles. For the most part, she just wore it down.

She removed her arm from Jin's and rubbed her hands together unintentionally. The woman's delicate finger entertwined with each other, streching the webbing between her fingers. Each hand squeezed the other where the knuckles began, slowly just kneeding her hands.

"What time is it?" she questioned completely out of context. She was preparing herself for what was to come. It was sort of out of comfort as well, loosening her being as a whole.

[Jadmai]

Jadmai was outside again.

He almost wanted to look behind him for a chain or some sort of restraint. It didn't feel allowed to leave the palace--he didn't know if he should.

The dark elf walked along slowly, just observing for a time, taking care, though through the last few days it has become habit, to keep his eyes slightly downcast, even when it was dark the sky still gave him a sickness.

He was clad in cuir-bouille, a hardened leather armor, it probably seemed odd to some, but it was all he ever wore, and he had grown quite used to it.

Eyeing the goods mostly, he stopped and let those of the market pace him by, and it was then he saw a creature he had never seen before. He brushed some of his white hair away from his cheek bone, and looked closer.

He was about to move on until he heard her speak.

"It's most likely Gravetide, now." He said, his eyes still looking at the ground. "But that is just my guess."

[Scheherazade]

There were something in the air that night, the crowd were congested, the stars were bright and strange murmurs were floating. With apprehension, she tightened her embrace on Alaha's massive arm, the night breeze and the crowded street causing her slight alarm.

Khy'lla looked around her, her black eyes gazing at the burnt faces present in the area. Something was up, alright and her brows frowned as she wondered if this night was going to be a very long one. She should have asked for more information from Yabal when she went out, knowing how the tavern owner was always informed of what was happening all over the desert city.

She felt fear creeping all over her body as she sensed the stilled air and the scowls pasted on the guards face and she shivered once more against Sadyr's bulk body.

Her gaze circled and stopped at Nabob and she frowned even more so, curiosity and anxiety clearly dawning on her painted face. If there was something to happen tonight, Nabob would know of it, yet she wondered if the vendor was the one behind all of this.

What are you really up to, Nabob? She thought pensively, her black eyes leveling with the seller.

"Yes, it is almost gravetide." Khy'lla replied with her velvety voice and caught the dark elf's eyes and gave the white-haired woman her own amicable smile.

[Guest]

As Lianelle gripped Rakhash’s hand in a manner that seemed to declare need, the young man held on tightly in response. As much as it might have seemed a one-sided arrangement for any uninformed observer, it seemed clear to him that the lonely princess provided for him as much as she received in turn. Before he had met her, Rakhash had resigned himself to the loneliness that had occupied much of his life, and had been almost singularly devoted to the achievement of some great success that would fill the void he felt within. Now, his world was upside down, his allegiances and priorities thrust out of the order they had been set in for so long. As much as he was still filled with the desire to succeed, he now had someone to share that success with, a trustworthy friend, and so much more. Every experience seemed so much richer, now that he had Lianelle.

The press of Lianelle’s soft lips against his cheek brought a wide grin to his face as he turned to face her. “Alright then,” he replied, “Let’s not keep them waiting then, shall we?” Glancing over to where the young woman had indicated, Rakhash spotted the fair-skinned Aeris in the middle of the crowd. He wasn’t sure where the mysterious woman was from, what her background was, or really, about anything concerning the girl except that she was a supposed ally. Nevertheless, it seemed pretty apparent that she wasn’t from Amun Rah, and in a crowd of dark-skinned, dark-haired people, she stood out like no one else about. Slowly, carefully, he began to work his way through the crowds towards the stall, Lianelle’s hand still gripped tightly in his own.

Finally reaching the stall, surrounded by reams of people he didn’t know, Rakhash ran a hand through his short hair and sighed. The merchant standing in a position of authority over this little region of the Gravetide market seemed to cloak himself in wealth and power, exude a kind of oily opportunism that made him feel uneasy. The people around him seemed to fit the place, consumers and patrons that would normally be found around any market. The strange foreign friend he had met at the Simbahan, and a dark adhiel seemed to be the only ones that did not. Something about that adhiel caused Rakhash to step back in apprehension. I wonder how would you look in a veil, stranger. There can’t be too many such as you walking about in Abu’Sahir, consigning their protection to leather armour. The man who had been with Bar’Yan while he was interrogating Rakhash and Lianelle was veiled, but his skin was dark and his stature of the same category. With all the guardsmen around, it didn’t seem unlikely to find him here.

Leaning over to Lianelle, he whispered in her ear. “Watch out for the adhiel, hmm? There are too many guardsmen about, and he reminds me of the silent man who had been present during our interrogation.” Frowning slightly, he shook his head, and attempted to blend in. It might be hard, given that he was standing behind the strange Aeris, and beside someone as captivating as Lianelle, but it wouldn’t do to have too much undue attention brought down upon him. “We’re here,” he said softly, pressing a hand against Aeris’ shoulder to signify who he was talking to. Not wanting to interrupt further, he stood back, and allowed the situation to unfold, remaining wary of those around him, and silently examining the events that took place

[Jadmai]

Jadmai flashed his grey eyes to those that sought him off, then walked off to the side, he pulled a piece of fruit from his pocket and produced a dagger from somewhere in his armor. He peeled away a peice and slowly put it in his mouth, listening to the bustle of the crowd.

One whisper caught his attention rather quickly, and tilted his head to filter out the rest of noise, his hieghted hearing sometimes being a burden.

He sighed and thought for a moment, shrugged a little, and cut another piece of fruit away and slowly slid it into his mouth.

He spun his blade in his hand, and stashed it away again.

"Congratulations on your lack of confinement." He said, though he looked no where in particular, the target of the comment would know, and if he didn't, "And I've seen the armies, in case you are curious about other deeds which they have done. Excuse the interruption." He finished still looking at the feet of the people that passed.

"But you sounded curious."

[Guest]

An unrest started to settle within the calm exterior of the half giant, as he caught wind of the growing tenseness of the atmosphere on this market. The glances at the guards and the whispering of the people began to take it's toll on him, although he refused himself to show it on the outside. Gently he took the shield off his back and slid the thick leather strap around his left forearm. ~ Some thing is brewing here. People seem to be counting the heads of the guards that are present and I see hidden arms and weapons carried openly by those that should have none. The crowd is as restless as a raptor, just before his meal arrives. Either something is about to happen here, or it will burst out not too long from this evening. ~

His eyes skimmed the crowd again, where he found three people sticking out like a sore thumb. A woman with long hair, white and thick. The merchand named Nabob seemed to play a part in this and there was an elf here, with a skin darker then he had ever seen before, clad in an armor of boiled leather. His interest started to rise and he regarded those that were apparantly in contact with one of these three figures. Slowly he started to memorise their faces, utilising the gift he had, which seemed to be rare for a half giant. Murat smirked at the thought. He studied the faces one by one and attempted to recall every detail into his head, first the merchand, then the white haired woman and at last, his gaze rested on the dark elf, who even had a dagger at hand. Sliding his hand behind the shield, he loosened the falchion in it's sheath, to be able to draw it swiftly, if he had the need for it. He knew his muscles had tensed slightly, but this would be sufficiently covered by the chainmail that he still wore, but the half giant would be ready for what was to come and react accordingly.

[Gorgoniy]

What an offending lout, that magistrate! He's lucky he has all those guards protecting him... Sending me packing like the lowliest of mates. Gorgoniy's face was still set on stormy weather when he entered the Gravetide Market.

He plowed on so engrossed in his own inner indignation that the whole grim atmosphere of the market passed him by. The halfling's face clearly displayed his inner fury and people gave him a wide berth. Unaware of the savage aura blanketing him it did give him an unobstructed path through the throngs of people. Perhaps the vicious swishing of his steel hook, albeit unintentional, had something to say in the matter as well.

They really shouldn't give such an inconsiderate camel-humper an important job like that! Throwing me back into the sea. Him, they should throw him into the sea! He wouldn't stand a chance out there! People observing his progress through the crowd probably would be very offended if they could witness the ranting and raving taking place inside the tough seaman's head.

[Guest]

"Rafao's ransom? Don't get ahead of yourself, Jin... it'll take at least two nights for me to manage that much. Or it would, were I not so foolish in my givingness." A shake of his head, artificial sadness- so marked by the grin that lit upon his features- and Nabob was already looking toward Lady Aeris, eyes lit with pride and perhaps more than a bit of appreciation. He was generous, true, but he was still a man and he was definitely used to getting what he wanted. As such, it was perhaps not especially surprising that he looked at everything in the same way: as something that could be bought or sold, appraising every flaw and demarcation as if to evaluate an asking price. Of course, the man had his natural charm to back such glancing up, and it wasn't nearly so awkward as it might have been were any other man in the marketplace to do so. That smile widened slightly, but not in any lascivious manner.

"Why hello there, Lady Aeris. It is truly a pleasure to meet you," he said, seeing something reflected in her, just beneath the surface. Something most men might miss, in their far-from-objective inspections. "For whether you be a Lady formally or not, you are deserving of such a title within my presence, surely." Eyebrows waggled almost suggestively as a low chuckle erupted from Nabob's throat, and he exchanged a gently conspiratory look with Jin. "It's good that you have heard so much of me, and that you've not heard anything bad about me- for if you had, it would have all a pack of lies." Another look at Jin before his attention once more focused upon the swanmaiden.

At her out of context question, he blinked briefly, and his gaze quite accurately asked the question his lips did not- "Are you quite alright, my dear?", though of course a polite man would never ask such a question- with a heavy implication of mental instability- in a woman's presence.

[Gully Drervo]

Alaha put a finger to his lips and bit on a fingernail. The nail came away in his mouth and he could taste the grime that had collected under it, as he did this his great painted head turned and surveyed the crowd. He stopped at the dark elf. Regarding the fruit he gave a condescending snort as though he knew that he was better and in a shallow society sense he was. "I see you fellows eat more than bugs and bats." He laughed at his joke before holding his ladyfriend to him. Gently he caught the dark adhiels eye and gave him a look of pure and utter arrogance.

He turned to Khy'lla and said in a voice that belied his boredom, "Who are these people in front of us, a man surrounded by so many customers should widen his operation and notice when an important man wishes his ear." He led the woman to the side so he could lean to the side of the merchants stall and he hollered at Nabob in his normal cutting tone, "I say you Naobob there are important people awaiting your ear here, I am a jolly important person and I should like to negotiate." How dare the commoners be in a line before him, that was not how things should be. Alaha's noble arrogance whilst no longer backed by any real nobility still lingered in his personality and he found himself the most important person in the crowd as well as the largest.

[Aeris Mourir]

"Thank you," she spoke to no one in particular since everyone seemed to jump upon her question. The woman had stopped massaging her hands, in the act of using her inner will to refrain. She did, however, flex her fingers one last time, clearly showing the excessive webbing; compared to any human. She didn't notice that she had done it, and finally her arms rested under her breasts, crossed.

Her eyes scanned the gathering crowd. The familiar faces reassured her that her back was covered, but she supposed it wasn't going to be the case. Each person jumped in to converse and she studied them, tried to get a feel for what they held inside.

Suddenly, a slur was slashed through the night air. A flicker of something sped behind the maiden's eyes. "That is uncalled for," Aeris scolded. There was something behind the way she said it, a way that would send a half-giant cowering. She was intolerate of people who put down others for the sheer fact of a good chuckle.

"Tonight is going to be far too important to have ignorant, cocky people included. If you can't work together and look out for one another, leave," she said to everyone. Aeris would have felt bad, but she was right; in her own mind at least. This wasn't the night for idle bickering or even a superiority complex. People were going to die tonight, she had an odd feeling about the air.

[Ashari]

Lianelle nodded to Rakhash as he spoke of watching out for the dark adhiel. She watched him carefully, and wondered if he was the one from their time in prison, and if so, if he recognized them, and then he sealed the deal by mentioning he was glad they were free. Rakhash had been sentenced to death, aside from a pardon from the Rafao there was no way out, however, this dark skinned man didn't seem too bothered by that notion. She gave him a strong look, but didn't say anything about his comment of the armies. They would stop them tonight. They had to. One of her brows raised slightly as she glanced at Jadmai. "It's nice to know you can speak."

Jin, looking at Aeris, was surprised at the amount of attention she was getting from the people around her. But then he thought about it for a flicker, and realized that a woman such as herself was bound to get a lot of attention, if only because of her exotic aura. The young slave grinned at Nabob as he commented on not telling lies about the merchant. "I wouldn't dare speak ill of you sir."

The slave boy's smile quickly turned, however, as Alaha burst into their conversing. He opened his mouth to throw out a quip in return, but Aeris turned on the large merchant with practiced ferosity, and the notion gave the handsome young man pause as he considered how to approach the situation. He stayed at her side, his hand holding firmly to her elbow, both out of support, and if necessary to hold the girl steady should she try to assault the man. Though Jin didn't recognize him as anyone important, one never knew, and it wouldn't do to anger someone in charge, especially right now.

Around them, with Aeris's threat hanging in the air, the crowd shifted uneasily. They knew that Gravetide loomed, just a few marks off yet, and soon the gentle bell ringing of the bell that announced each new tide would fill the Foreigner's Court.

For Murat, being somewhat removed from the center of action, it was an interesting outsiders perspective. He could see the slaves, moving about and waiting for some sort of signal, though it wasn't totally obvious, it was to someone who tried to pay any sort of attention to the throng of people. Not many weapons were brandished, even so, there were a few, some were hidden still, but there was a preparation in this, they were ready for what was to come.

Some of the slaves were seasoned veterans, they had served in the army, but perhaps left unhonorably. That didn't change what they knew of fighting. Others had done time in the arena for being debters, and if they had survived the trials of hand to hand combat against fiersome warriors and clawed beasts alike, then they were to be a good match against any and all the guardsmen who had been sent out to keep the peace.

Anyone looking around at the groups would see one thing for sure: these were all slaves. The only man who stood out against this stereotype would be Alaha, and aside from him Nabob, but he had such a comradere with the lowest social class, that it didn't matter much, he was commonly thought upon as the rich uncle, and thought no worse for having so much. Especially considering his grace and hospitality to those who were usually thought not to deserve it. As the obese merchant, Alaha, drew attention to himself in such a rude manner, he became a target, and probably at the worst time, for the tension was nearly palpable.

Gorgoniy, having just arrived in the city, and been forced to wander through the Foreigner's Court in order to get to any destination within Abu`Sahir, had stumbled into a milling group. As much as he might've thought the slaves were giving him a wide berth thanks to his physical appearance, really, it was just a matter of coincidence as people shifted around and waited for the bell to toll the time.

Thusly, it did.

A deep ringing filled the square as the heavy rope was pulled, to signal the last mark of the day. One... two... three... solemn booms filled the ears of everyone in the marketplace. The sound reverberated through the soul and filled everyone with a reverent peace, but that was not to last. As the humming faded Jin grabbed a torch from aside Nabob's stall, and gave Aeris a final look. Be safe... He would protect her, he knew that, but the silent prayer was more for his own comfort. "FOR UPHURON! LONG LIVE THE RAFAO!" The slave's voice cut through the silence, and there was a rising of fists from the crowd, and a hurrah, and several mimicing calls, yelling for the Rafao's strength, and for his longevity.

It was then that the fighting truely began. Slaves turned against the guardsmen, and began pushing them to the ground, they did not aim for death, these were their countrymen, these boys were here to protect them, but subdual was necessary, so they fought. And as they didso, the militia pulled their weapons. Scythes, scimitars and rapiers were pulled from sheaths as they turned against the slaves.

Gorgoniy, appearing armed with his hooked appendage was spotted by a blade weilding guard. He was a man of medium stature, but stood much taller than the half-ling. He gave him an appraising look and then advanced, passing Murat as he did so. The guard's blade was wicked and curved, as as he moved into an attack stance he spoke. "May Anasis bless your passing." Then he lunged forwards, aiming for the half-lings midsection. He took a left step, then a right, and with another left he would be upon the short being.

Jadmai, having already displayed that he was armed, and being obviously dangerous (atleast to any xenophobic Amunic warrior) thanks to his heritage, was also immediately targetted by a fighter. The young man, having spotted the dark adhiel, grabbed him by his armor, and yanked him backwards. He was carrying a long thin blade, which he lifted as he drew the murderous creature near, and prepared to cut his throat. He wore no armour himself, rather only a tunic and breeches, similar to the ones that Parmina had laid out for him, baggy light.

More fighting was breaking out at the hands of the slaves as well, Jin turned with his flaming torch in hand and lit a guardsman on fire. His arms pinwheeled as he ran off, aiming himself for the impressive gate of the city, and then he disappeared as he jumped off of the dock. The slave fought hard and kept any of the guards away from Aeris, he even knocked a man out, who fell right at her booted feet. However, there is only so long a person can fight to protect themself, and it's even more difficult to protect someone else.

After a few flickers of using the torch as a weapon, it burned out, leaving him with a club instead. He lashed out at an oncoming guard, but as he did, his club became lodged in the blade. He was concentrating so hard on that, he didn't notice the approach of another guard, who had just stabbed a slave right through, leaving his blade covered in blood. He came upon Jin's back, and hefted his sword, ready to do the same to the suave slave.

Alaha, un trained and without weapon, was pressed against the merchant stall he had just been leaning against by the moving people. Khy`lla, at his side, was hit hard, in the ribcage, and pushed towards him. A painful heat spread through her torso as the fist pulled from her body. No one tried to attack him, atleast not yet.

Behind Aeris, and Jin, almost to the point of beind in a small alleyway between Nabob's stall and another closed one, Rakhash and Lianelle had yet to be disturbed either. "By the gods..." She whispered to him, as she watched the unfolding scene. Bodies fell, and blood puddled began to form on the surface of the sandstone streets. Her wide, naive eyes, absorbed everything, including the sight of the guardsman who ran his blade right through the slave. It was a massacre. "What have we done?" She looked at her companion as a slave boy, no older than fourteen, was cut with a guard's scythe. The guard pushed the youth right into Rakhash, and then came at the trio with a glint of death in his eyes.

Around Rakhash there was little in the form of weapons, but, there were several pieces of wood, heavy and strong, used to support the tapestries overhead. They were a few inches in diameter and six feet long, but they had been widdled and weathered, just like a staff. In addition to that, there were several crates and barrels standing between the oncoming guard and the three of them.

[Jadmai]

Jadmai could still taste the juices in his mouth, when the bell tolled. He did not think much of it, besides the marking of the time, but the crowd suddenly grew animated.

The darkness, the merchant stands, the crowds...it felt like the Bazaar in Gulanadur. He grew up on the Bazaar--literally--the place seemed like nether at the time, and now he might just end up there.

For the love of The Moonlady, I...just...wanted...a...piece...of...fruit.

Jadmai felt the himself being pulled backwards, and then the blade heading towards his throat.

He quickly, and probably instinctively put his arm right next his throat--a slashed arm or missing finger would be better than what was intended.

But that wasn't going to be the only thing he would do avoid the blade to his throat, a day earlier, he had learned to try use another's strength to his advantage, being smaller it was the only other defense to strength than speed.

He went with the pull backwards, allowed himself to be pulled backwards, in fact he would go into the pull so he could be upon his attacker faster than the young man expected.

Throwing himself into the man, he would would hope his head would butt with the man's nose, anything to get out of this disadvantaged position. While throwing himself back he would draw one of his daggers with his other arm, the man probably exposed a lot his ribs by lifting this sword to his neck.

Just a few nights ago he had gone to the Moonlady, she was in his thoughts then, and now he would stand before her if he could and honestly say he didn't want to kill this man. But not out of religious experience, at least not now, because if this strike with his dagger found flesh, through armor or the gods now what is being worn by him, he would be the target of just about everyone else here.

At the likely exposed ribs, Jadmai, arm around his own neck, flung himself back into the man, hoping to jar him with head butt, but if not, the hope of a backward thrust up into the ribs.

Don't die, bleed, for this, but don't die.

[Guest]

Rakhash tensed as he heard the dark adhiel speak, but remained silent. His fears had been confirmed, and not only that, but the man realized who he was and where he had been on the previous day. Odd, then, that he didn’t move to apprehend Rakhash or Lianelle, and instead seemed indifferent that they were even there at all. Rather than saying the numerous things he had on his mind, and perhaps dragging the situation down further, the young man held his tongue and allowed Lianelle to say what she would. Even an indifferent servant of a regime they were temporarily fighting against warranted caution, and as it stood the crowd about them provided a kind of shield he was reluctant to let go of by further revealing himself.

That shield shattered abruptly as the bell struck, declaring the time for all to hear. Gravetide, it seemed, was about to live up to its title.

As chaos erupted in the market, Rakhash held back, hoping to avoid the initial blows and the confusion that was about to ensue. Better to take a position, review the situation, and then get involved in an area where the lines were clearly drawn, friends and foes separated into clearly defined groups. He took it all in as blood splashed across the ground and men fell in a torrent of violence. Silently, he berated himself for not having thought to procure a weapon before coming here. “We’re doing what we have to in order to make sure this is the only place it happens,” he replied solemnly, hoping that he had done enough to impress upon the princess the magnitude and relevance of what was occurring in relation to her own home.

The young man was interrupted as a young slave bounded into him, bloodied by the weapon of a guardsman. So the conflict had found him, then. The sight of his enemy’s gaze was clear as Rakhash looked up to face the quickly approaching solider, and it brought his situation into perspective. Rapidly, he turned once again into a being that seemed so utterly different than the timid, and caring person he normally was. A warrior was required here, in the face of a man who would heed reason or negotiation with as much weight as a wild beast. Anger fueled necessity, as Rakhash thought of the man harming Lianelle, and of the boy who was far too young being cut into by the man’s blade.

Grunting, he pushed the boy as gently as he could while maintaining speed into Lianelle, and then forced both of them out of the way. He acted quickly, pushing the barrels and crates forward into the oncoming opponent, hoping to trip him up, or at the very least, slow him down. Without waiting to see if it had any effect, he gripped one of the long poles and arranged it in his hands. Once the guard got near, he swung hard and high, aiming for the head, hoping that the man would be too disoriented to be able to defend against it effectively. Rakhash had been trained to use a staff, but rather than preparing to mount a ready defense against the onslaught, he opted to strike fast and hard, utilizing the brute force at his disposal to rid himself of the enemy quickly. Silently, he hoped it would pay off.

[Gorgoniy]

OOC: Sorry 'bout the assumptions.

IC:
The old sailor was ripped out of his trail of thought rather abruptly. A heavy bell tolled, probably proclaiming a certain tide of the day. Gorgoniy looked up to ascertain the time. As he did the echoes of the bell were followed by an united roar: "FOR UPHURON! LONG LIVE THE RAFAO!" As a foreigner the halfling wasn't entirely sure whether the exclamation was a customary homage to their ruler or not.

Then the fists started rising and a hurrah clamoured along the crowds. Suddenly the fists came down and were used for something completely different. The people attacked the guardsmen, most only brandishing their bare hands.

Gorgo was shocked, surveying his surroundings he suddenly was confronted with a pair of purposeful eyes. The eyes belonged to a guardsman wielding a curved blade. Uh ooh... It seems I've got a brawl on my hand! The 3'2" tall seaman noticed the long reach of the fighter approaching him. A long arm and the wickedly curved sword brought death within reach frighteningly fast.

Gorgoniy wanted to explain that he was only passing through and that he - as a foreigner - really didn't know what all this fuss was about. Before he could formulate an effective oral defense, the guard was almost onto him.

With a referral to a god or goddess Anasis - unknown to Gorgo, the man thrust his blade at the halfling in an attempt to spear it through his heart. Time for contemplation was unavailable, action was demanded. Gorgo felt his martial training surge up into him, taking control of his muscles and their reflexes. Without thought his feet moved to the left and he sidestepped the advancing blade. His left hand would push the swordarm away from him, hampering his assailant's advance and creating an opening for his hook. The force of the guard's approach should sent him stumbling past when his blade didn't meet any resistance. Gorgoniy's heavy, steel hook came up ready to thump it into his assailant's tender kidney.

[Scheherazade]

Khy'lla, wide-eyed with fear, gasped as she saw the event unfolded before her. Weapons, knives, swords and clubs appeared and clashed with each other, bedewing the sandy dunes of the desert with glistening, silvery blood.

Horrors, upon horrors rose from everywhere and chaos erupted. She wanted to shout and scream but fear petrified her, she could only tighten her grasp of Alaha’s arm as the golden dancer saw a young boy sliced into two, blood spurting everywhere.

“No!” The Amunic dancer gasped ever so silently, her voice almost a whisper and she hid her painted head over Sadyr’s arm, sobbing so silently with dread and fear as deep panic crept all over her skin.

I wanna go! I wanna go! I wanna go! Khy’lla fearfully chanted to herself, it was almost like a mantra. “Great Anasis, help me…” She sobbed frailly, her head still hidden over Sadyr’s large arm.

And then it hit her, pain so excruciating, she sagged and wilted like a flower over Alaha’s arm and she could only whimper and gasp as black dots clouded her vision. The pain throbbed in her upper ribcage and she tried to look down at her chest with deep fear, afraid of what had hit her.

It was then that everything cleared.

She heard herself sobbing loudly and hysterically, the previous flickers were a blur to her. Then and there, fear and panic totally embraced her: She started screaming, sobbing and crying as she held on to Alaha’s arm, afraid to let go.

[Gully Drervo]

Alaha towered over the crowd, his immense size and weight giving him a physical advantage over them but his lack of a weapon and his lack of martial skill nullified his physique. His first idea was to run, save himself totally but the effect of Khy'lla first sobbing on his arm and then collapsing over it somehow from somewhere revealed a rel streak of courage in the large merchant. Using all his size he hoisted the exotic dancer over his shoulder protecting her from the crowd. Then with practiced ferocity he began to strike out at the men before him, his big chubby arms like two great mallets crashing all aside he hoped.

Softly he looked over at Aeris and shouted at the woman, "You...you said tonight was important and I ask you to back up your words, let us work together now and look out for one another and we may survive this." Alaha shimmeyed along the edge of Nabob's stall so he was standing beside Aeris. "I do not know what you are pale one but my family once revered women such as you, the people of the stars, this is no coincidence you must protect me now and I shall do the same for you."

With that Alaha swung his bulk about still holding his partner while lashing out at any slaves that came too near to him.

[Guest]

Murat has silently watched the proceedings around him, but when the fighting began, even right in front of him, the half giant pulled his falchion from it's sheath and came into action. This was the life he had trained for, although he certainly had other abilities then swinging a blade, and he started to move forwards, his shield before him and his blade at the ready. A feeling of pity came over him, as he saw the tiny halflingh engaged in combat with the much larger guard, but judging by the moves of the small man, he knew how to stay alive. Up ahead, he saw a young slave being cut down by a guardsman and thrown into the pompous person that thought he was above the crowd, but now was fighting with a guardsman, while trying to protect both himself and the woman he seemed to be with. With a sigh, he decided that he would start helping Jin first, who apparantly did not notice a guardsman sneaking up from behind.

With a number of swift paces, the half giant shot forwards, striding through the crowd, meanwhile using his shield and bodymass to get there, and reaching Jin just before the guardsman in his back could strike at the slave. Another pace later, Murat had stepped past the slave and in the run, swung his shield hard at the guard's body, so he could not stab the slave. With a grim look on his face, he bellowed to the guard while he had swung the shield, utilising his massive figure and strength to his advantage. "What honor is there in stabbing an unarmed slave trying to defend a woman, vermin? Your uniform does not condone murder." While he had made his move, he had held his falchion at the ready, in case the guard would avoid his strike, that was meant to send the man to the ground and knock the wind right out of him. Using his falchion to strike down the guard seemed inappropriate to him, but hitting the man with his shield would keep him alive. The colossus of a man had no intent on killing anyone, but sought to incapacitate the guard. At this moment, Murat was glad he had kept his chainmail on. The slave seemingly kept an eye on the guard in front of him, but he was unarmed. The guard himself would not be able to use his weapon very effectively with a burnt out torch lodged onto it, yet the half giant knew he had to act quickly, as the next guardsman would probably be too much for the man.