Back to Gridania (Open RP)

[Lorielle Sylwood]

Lorielle's breathing had become rasped, her turquoise eyes darting about in confusion as the scene unfolded before her.  She had no idea what Tobias was doing.  Her lip curled exposing a strip of pearly whites as she quickly lost trust in everyone here.  Her adrenaline was bubbling to a peak, survival instincts clouding her every sense.

 

Suddenly, a crate flew from the caravan and landed very close to her.  One of her captor's looked shocked, then some strange recognition came across his face.  Kieaira was still in the caravan, and he must have known.

 

While his eyes were no longer on her, and his weapon was nowhere near, something snapped in Lorielle's eyes.  Her face curled into a feral snarl as she kicked up her feet, forcing all of her weight into her back.  An intense pain shot through her shoulders, her arms still pinned by the man's arms.  Her body rolled as she forced the weight from her back to her legs, throwing them with full force downward to join with the man's groin.

 

She was released suddenly, falling unceremoniously forward.  She quickly picked herself up, running forward blindly while reaching back for her staff.  She turned on her heel, armed and ready for any attempt to be captured again.  She was breathing hard, her face twisted in extreme hatred.  If either of them were to come for her, she would break every bone in their face with the thick ball of her staff.

 

But now they knew where Kieaira was.  Lorielle changed her stance, ready to run to the caravan and cut the men off should they try and take her in Lorielle's place.  She wished someone in their troupe would have been better in combat.  She could fight well enough, but she could not take on two large men on her own.  The only fighter they had was currently weaponless on the ground before the two bandits.  Where in Eorzea was their driver?

[K'nahli]

"But instead, I find merely feeble bandits."

Tarquin's expression quickly drew into a scowl as the midlander chose to test his luck even further. A brief thought, however, occurred to the bandit leader just in time to prevent him from cutting Tobias off in a flash of bitter anger. Was he intentionally trying to aggravate in hope of distracting them from further assaulting the captive elezen? Perhaps, but perhaps not. The only thing that Tarquin felt assured of was that the hyur was working towards something. He didn't seem the type to show rash arrogance nor one to be blinded by pride. Almost as quickly as his expression had turned sour, it became more neutral as he felt adamantly confident in his judgement. Amadi on the other hand, merely grunted and smirked at the man's comment, bemused by his words as though they served as some form of commendation. He was lacking a certain component that Tarquin, on the other hand, did possess.

 

The midlander lowered his weapon once more, allowing it to hang loosely by his side as he relaxed his posture, intrigued to listen further to what the hyur had to say.

 

 

"I. Am. Garlean."

 

Tarquin's eyes narrowed, his head tilting ever so slightly in surprise at the man's sudden claim. He had no time to ponder further on it before his eyes widened in disbelief as the so-called-Garlean turned to strike his archer companion viciously in the stomach, causing him to heave over, clutching his gut in pain. The black-haired bandit took half a step backwards as his expression revealed no less than utter confusion. His fingers wrapped more firmly around the, bandage-cloaked handle of his blade as he grew more cautious, briefly uncertain as to if the man was even sane. Was this some sort of trick? His linguistic skills certainly defended his claims, rendering Tarquin unsure of what to believe.

 

 

 

The midlander remained stunned and motionless for a moment following Tobias' proposal and disarming of the archer. The sound of the raindrops continuing to bounce off of his and Amadi's raincloaks as they stood there in brief silence served as the filler between the occasional roar of the rolling storm that raged in the cimmerian clouds above.

 

 

"You... you dare threaten us?!" Amadi finally broke the verbal silence, shouting at the hyur with his grip on the female growing even tighter, behaving as a demonstration of his anger towards the man's speech, unintentional as it may have been.

 

"The arrogance... the nerve..!" he continued as he shuffled on the spot, contemplating releasing the woman so that he could charge at the man and strike him down for his insolence.

 

"Enough. Amadi" Tarquin interrupted his comrade's vexed ramblings without removing his stare from Tobias. His glare was unwavering, sizing up this mysterious man in vain hopes of figuring out his motives. His eyes then slowly crossed over to Clavier's neck, confirming Tobias' claims once more. Whatever game the midlander may be playing, he was certainly not bluffing on that fact. Had the cargo not been worthy of retrieval they would simply have taken the females with them in exchange, but a Garlean deserter? No. That was a much better prize.

 

They were, however, not spared the luxury of contemplating the offer. A sudden and loud crash sounded from the darkness a little away from the caravan, distracting the men quite easily. Tarquin's eyes searched into the black void of the night for the male archer he had seen earlier. Surely it was him. The lashing rain did their visibility no favours while they both continued scanning for the presumed mysterious guest, Tarquin carefully retaining the remaining travelers in his peripheral vision at the same time.

 

"Tarquin! The caravan!" Amadi shouted towards the midlander as he caught sight of the female miqo'te in time to see her drop down once again into hiding. It was then that they realised that it had, in fact, all been a diversion.

 

"Gugghhh!!!" Amadi let out a grotesque howl in pain, releasing the female elezen as he lurched forward in agony. Her strike has been quite successful and excellently timed, giving her the perfect opportunity to escape from his weakened grasp. Even had she lingered on the ground following her fall, Amadi still wouldn't have been able to re-secure his grip on her as he clutched on to the site of impact vehemently in a vain attempt to sooth his discomfort.

 

Tarquin grunted in frustration, his eyes following the girl as she made her escape. He was close enough to steal her back had he wished to attempt it, though he knew Tobias would certainly have seized the chance to strike assuming Clavier had not managed to do so himself.

 

Amadi quickly dragged himself up alongside his leader as they made a line of defence, slowly drawing out his greataxe in preparation. His stature was still somewhat hunched forward as the effects of the blow continued to affect him. His expression was heavy, slowly morphing from a strenuous and flustered vision of distress into one of absolute and unrelenting fury. He huffed dejectedly as he locked his eyes on to the female who had struck him. He would not allow her to get away with striking him.

 

 

Snickering in mild amusement, Tarquin tilted his head upwards in an attempt to project his voice, deciding to exact intimidation tactics once more before he would officially act upon them.

 

"A very foolish move should you value your life, Moonkeeper....  your friends here could have all walked away from this without further harm coming to them..." he sneered arrogantly, his voice tinted with confidence in spite of the tables being turned on them so suddenly.

 

"...Yet now you shall bear witness as each of them die" he continued, spitting towards the ground as he paused briefly.

 

"And I promise you, I will ensure that yours will be befittingly painful" he finalized with a grimace as he took an aggressive stance, ready for combat.

[Kieairakitty]

Kieaira remained crouched behind the boxes, her arms wrapped around her knees as she shivered, her ears twitching as the voices began to carry above the rain that bathed the parched land. She peeked between the boxes, a small bit of relief came to her as Lorielle freed herself from the man, but it was replaced just as quickly with fear.

 

Did I make things worse? Oh what do I do? What do I do? Her eyes scanning the cart, trying to find something .... anything ... that would help. She tried to remember if there had been anything in the crates ... a weapon perhaps? But what would she do with it ... she was clumsy, and untrained, would it just make things worse?

 

She bit down on her lip harder, she was trapped, the only way out of the cart was through the small makeshift hole between the crates, and just in front of that stood the other travelers. Friends? Were they her friends? No time to think of that now...

 

As Kieaira began to panic, a crash of thunder shook the cart once more and a streak of lightening struck the nearby tree, causing it to illuminate with flame. The chocobos squawked and pulled at the ropes that tied them in place, but they were secure. The chocobos! It would be foolish to try and save them ... but I can't just watch them die...

 

Finally her eyes landed on something useful, something that had gone unnoticed for the trip since it had been of no use before then... A trap door. In the bottom of the cart, the handle just barely seen beneath the sleeping bags. Slowly Kieaira shifted, hoping the rain would cover the sounds of her moving, and pushed the sleeping bags away. She wrapped her hands around the cold steel door hatch and pulled, straining what little muscle she had, her face turning red and she grunted. Finally the door gave way and she fell back on her behind with a thump.

 

 

Go go go! She didn't have time to think about any pain. She slipped down threw the door and with all the speed of a Miqo'te she dashed towards the Chocobos, her tiny form aglow from the fire as she began pulling on the knots tied to the tree ... but they were too tight ... It had all been in vain! The chocobos were doomed ... and she had compromised her position.

 

Her ears wilted and just as she was about to give up, she saw the glint of a dagger from the corner of her right eye. The dagger began sawing at the ropes and she looked up to see Draevyn, the carts driver. His blonde hair was matted to his face, and his blue eyes were full of anger and determination as he cut through one of the ropes, the chocobo taking off into the darkness. He grunted and began sawing at the other one. "Get out of here!" He yelled down at Kieaira, who had just been standing there staring at him in awe.

 

"B-But the others!"

 

Draevyn grunted again and fell back as the second rope finally snapped and the other chocobo began to run, this time heading straight towards the travelers and the bandits.

 

Kieaira rushed to Draevyn's side, but he pushed her away as he got back up, the fire in the tree above them continuing to grow. "Where are you going?!" The little Miqo'te shouted as the blonde haired Hyur turned and began to walk off. She rushed forward and grabbed hold of his wrist, pulling him back. "You can't just leave us! You have to help! Please!!"

[Tobias Nightbringer]

Okay this post may be one of the most confusing posts due to a lot of 'time hops' or whatever you want to call it. I wanted to try something different >.> So basically think of most of the italicized paragrpahs being events that happened in the past. While the normal is...well normal! Please feel free to PM ME ONLY if you have questions or need clarification in regards to this post. Again, reason I want PMs is because I don't want a huge ton of OOC to clutter it up here. Hope you all enjoy the post! *crosses fingers*

 

 

 

        "I. Am. Garlean." Tobias enunciates every syllable pointedly as to make sure he was heard. Suddenly the Midlander strikes in a swift left hook--into Clavier's gut. However, during the brief struggle that ensued, the next step to Tobias' plan was already set in motion. This was merely a stepping stone, a rising action towards the climax. He had to make a mental note to apologize to Clavier after all this if they both survived. To which Tobias was confident that would come to pass.

 

        "Play along Clavier." Tobias had spoken with swift words while he had quickly bent down with Clavier after the strike, though the true purpose would have been known to Amadi and Tarquin too late.

 

 

Thirty yalms. Long and agile strides are made as it treks swiftly across Thanalan's wet and muddy terrain.

 

 

        "So quickly how the tides can shift it's favor...." Tobias states casually as he seems to disregard Tarquin's threat entirely, "despite your best efforts, you have in your possession now, what you had exactly when you began this little charade of yours--nothing." Tobias was still too far from striking distance and Clavier was now the closest to the two assailants. However the darkness shrouds much of what was still happening, who was looking at who, and other things--until the crackle of lightning sets a tree where the Chocobo's were leashed to ablaze.

 

 

Twenty yalms. The pace stays constant as it comes from the East.

 

 

        Draevyn did not want to leave exactly, or more accurately he did not want to leave the passengers defenseless, but after seeing and hearing Tobias, the driver managed to slip out of sight from the bandits without notice. An overwhelming mixture of emotions come over him as Kieaira grabs hold of his wrist. The blonde Hyur remains quiet for awhile before blue eyes turn to meet her gaze, thankful for the rain at this exact moment. "Alright. For you lass..." words masked before he grabs the sharpened 'tooth pick' from the wet ground before he heads back towards the scene of the conflict.

 

 

Ten yalms. When Amadi and Tarquin first appeared, Tobias held his back to the men after they make themselves known. There was a flash of lightning that revealed Tobias' back to the strangers. If not due to the darkening sky and sudden hail of rain, someone might have noticed the shift in his forearm that raised his hand upwards to his lips once he took something out of his pouch--a kind of whistle. Before his hand dropped casually to the side, he put the small object to his lips and gently blew--a frequency was emitted that not even a Miqo'te could hear.

      

 

       Lorielle was able to escape much sooner than Tobias anticipates thanks to the sudden distraction that Kieaira provides. Also, partly due to Clavier allowing himself to be struck gave that extra bit of distraction at the beginning that was needed to catch the bandits totally off-guard. Despite his desire to place himself in front of Lorielle or even glance back at her to see if she is well, he refrains. The Elezen undoubtedly saw what Tobias had done to Clavier, so he dares not to do something that would cause his head to be cracked open like an egg from her staff.

 

        The fire that struck the tree grew intensely despite the rain that pours on it, perhaps a sign that Azeyma now takes interest to the events unfolding. The illumination from the flames bright enough to cast a faint glow over to where the travelers and bandits are. It also reveals the frightened Chocobo running very quickly straight towards the group. The panicked 'KWEH' from the creature causes Tobias to turn his head briefly before he looks back over at Clavier. The moment the two made eye contact, the raven-haired Hyur would release his hold of the black blade and toss it back to the archer. It was unlikely, but perhaps that one more distraction from the terrified Chocobo from the West would give pause to the bandits long enough for Clavier to grab his blade and cut one down before either men could react. Hopefully the archer would engage on the one with the great-axe.

 

        This was all going better than planned, which both relieves Tobias but also makes him push the advantage. Another streak of lightning floods the area with light and that is when he sees 'it' come from the East. From behind both Amadi and Tarquin. The Midlander had succeeded in his subterfuge, better than he had hoped for. He puts the whistle back to his lips and blows quickly and noiselessly before he rushes towards the man known as Tarquin, whom had taken an aggressive stance. Tobias was finished with words.

 

 

Mere fulms. Not very far from behind either Amadi and Tarquin another loud 'KWEH' was heard, but this screech did not belong to the frightened Chocobo that passed mere moments ago. Instead, the screech of alerted aggression belonged to that of a brightly colored, charging Chocobo that was hefty in size; Tobias' Chocobo--aiming straight for Amadi and Tarquin. Stalling. Deceit. Lies or half-truths. All parts of the game of subterfuge. Now it was time for his plan to pay the dividends.

 

 

        At the beginning of their journey, a Hyur produced a quick, sharp whistle after he heard the driver call out to the others to make ready. Soon a brightly colored Chocobo strode up to the side of the caravan, unsaddled and unarmored. An excited 'Kweh' comes from the hefty creature as Tobias placed a hand over the top of it's head. He soothingly trailed the touch down over to the curve of it's beak. His forehead gingerly pressed against the front of the beak. Both man and beast close their eyes as whispered words are spoken, the language entirely foreign to any that hear. The most distinct sound that came from the Hyur was the delicate rolling of his 'R'. The Chocobo ruffled it's feathers with another bright 'Kweh' before it took off down the path. Never did it stray too far from the caravan. As trained, it kept it's distance around fifty to sixty yalms. Always prepared to come into action when called upon at a moments notice. All it needed was the whistle....

[Nirri]

(( It's cool, don't worry. placeholder also for after Tobias his post))

[Nirri]

As Lorielle broke free with a nasty movement against the man's groin area. Clavier turned around to face them now rather then his back. An expression of disgust visible upon his face both due their own motivations of hurting Lorielle and the truth he had just shared with people he didn't know. His right hand clutching into a fist for a moment before he barked out to them.

"You know what we Garleans are very good at? Killing."

 

The tone of his voice sounding rather confident due to his predicament of barely wearing any clothing during a heavy storm and being unarmed against before two armed bandits. A greataxe and a sword. Big and small. He knew there was a way to turn this entire. Not without having the girl in the way. She would need to keep him alive by the end of the upcoming fight.

"Go to Kieara, keep her safe."

 

This time he shouted more then he was talking, the flames of the burning tree casting the shadows far and wide. A spectacle on it's own within the storm. His eyes locked shortly with Tobias as the black blade was casted into the air towards him. The chocobo running in their direction was but a minor issue in the current scenario as he stood in his spot till the blade was just near him. Unlike skilled gladiators and mighty warriors from stories, the hilt didn't land perfectly in the palm of his hand but the blade rather. He could feel the flesh in his hand opening as the blade slipped through it till eventually the hilt rested in the palm of his hand.

 

By the time the hilt was within the palm of his hand he had already taken several steps into a run directly for the bandit holding the large greataxe. The black steel becoming almost completely invisible as the darkness started to consume the people in the night, but he knew where he was going to hit if that man didn't defend himself. The blade was making an upward movement for the man's chest. My body can't take much more of this. The cold, toxin and endless pain. This needs to work. Clavier only hoped that the reaction time of the highlander with a greataxe and all the confusion from the chocobo's and storm had given him enough time to strike.

[Lorielle Sylwood]

Sorry for the absence! Glad I didn't miss too much.

 

 

Lorielle watches as chaos unfolds, although it seems to be in their favor.  Chaos caused confusion, turning the tides suddenly onto the bandits.  It was three against two, not including the swarming chocobos.  Lorielle would be sure to get at least one clean hit to the man that slapped her.  But first, she had to be certain the two men on her side were tended to.

 

She followed as they charged, keeping a slight distance to watch as everything would unfold.  She stopped sharply, waving her brandished staff and her unoccupied hand in waving motions.  The wet, compact sand began to shift, the earth beneath cracking.  She prepared her attack, waiting for an opening.

[Kieairakitty]

She just ... stood there. How? ..... Why? .... She found herself asking, seeming to be in a state of shock, everything seemed like it was going in slow motion. The chocobos charging from different directions towards the group and the bandits, Draevyn charging off with his spear, calling out a battle cry as he reached the fray. The Miqo'te males were nowhere to be seen ... she wasn't even sure the last time she had saw them, it was only now she noticed them missing.

 

The tree behind her roared in flames, but it wouldn't last ... not with the rain picking up and soaking the land. Droplets of water fell from her ears and nose, her ivory hair matted to her forehead and cheeks, her navy blue clothing clung to her lithe frame, making her feel heavy and uncomfortable.

 

A sudden roaring of thunder as the rain picked up, brought her back to the here and now. She shook her head, and looked around ... what was she to do? She dared not return to the group and become a hostage ... but there must be some way she could help. Could she return to Black Brush station and rally the guards? Should she chase after the chocobos? Perhaps she could try and get Lorielle to back away from the danger .... let the men handle everything ... but somehow she didn't think Lorielle was the type to flee.

 

Kieaira's ears wilted, a look of desperation crossed her features, as she fell down into the mud in defeat. Why am I not stronger? Why have I not studied a craft? Why am I so helpless? I can't even help my friends... all I can do is stay out of the way ... all I am is a burden ... Protect poor Kieaira ... Keep poor Kieaira safe... She closed her icy blue eyes, tears rolled down her cheeks, mixing with the droplets of rain, a feeling of hopeless was closing in.

[K'nahli]

OOC(Updated):

 

 

I misunderstood a previous tag so I'll need to alter the part where Tobias was armed, sorry.

I think the re-edited version is tolerable now. Sorry once again ;;

 

 

The blazing inferno cast an ideal, tangerine light across the area, illuminating almost everything within range of the caravan and clearly revealing the positions of the travelers who resided not too far from it. Tobias had once again attempted to play mind games with the men prior to conflict. It was perhaps an attempt to lull them into a fit of anger and behave more recklessly in combat, even if more aggressively, Tarquin thought. Or was he stalling? What could he possibly be stalling for though? No help would come. No-one would just happen upon this scenario in this weather, especially when they were practically half way from both Blackbrush AND Drybone.

 

Tobias' confidence was mildly unsettling. However, should he truly have sought to mentally destabilize the men then it would all have been in vain this time. Tarquin had abandoned his "passive" approach and was now prepared to engage in battle. No words would sway him at this point nor would they easily disrupt his focus. Amadi on the other hand, though more susceptible, was not focused on neither Tobias nor his words. His gaze remained trained on the elezen who had attacked him.

 

"...?!"

 

"...what?!"

 

Tobias' plan had finally came to fruition, though unknown to the bandits, as a fleeting chocobo passed before both men, startling and forcing them backwards out of its way. It didn't take long for both to realise that the black-haired midlander had stolen this freak opportunity to return a weapon to Clavier. Tarquin cursed to himself as he managed to make out the blade twirl through the air and land securely in Clavier's grip. At the very least, it wasn't his bow, but this had landed the assailants in a very hazardous situation. Not only were certain party members missing from view but the two direct opponents appeared more than capable, possibly enough to fend off their attention just enough to suffer an attack from the flank.

 

Tarquin readied his blade. However, he had barely succeeded to take a single step forward before he was ambushed by yet another surprise. Another loud, squawking  chocobo charged Tarquin from behind, causing him to tumble forward into the water-logged mud. The blade slipped free from his grip, forcing it to fall just ilms out of reach. Those mere ilms were enough to determine his assured death, however. Tobias had already acted upon the moment and charged towards Tarquin in attempt to finally subdue him.

 

"Tarquin!" Amadi shouted as he stepped to assist his leader. However, Clavier had already responded to Tobias' sagacious plan and directed his attention towards the highlander. His sudden assault had caught Amadi off-guard, leaving him with very little time to respond. Raising his greataxe quickly, Amadi barely succeeded in parrying the young male's swift upwards slash with the shaft of his weapon though only momentarily. The attack had been far too fast for the highlander to form a proper grip and angle against the blade. As a result, the strike finally struck true causing Amadi's axe to swing free from his left hand as he barely retained grip with his right. Clavier's blade sliced cleanly through his flesh as a consequence and forced the large male a couple of yalms backwards. Though the wound was deep, it wasn't significantly incapacitating.

 

Amadi quickly grasped his axe with his left hand once more and swung the steel-tipped butt of the shaft in Clavier's direction as an attempt to deter the hyur from following up with a second attack so he could seize the chance to reacquire his balance. Should it succeed, Amadi would take the chance to apply pressure to his wound. His hand quickly became soaked in a dark crimson as the blood flowed swiftly through his torn cloak and across his large hand. Amadi grunts, exhaling sharply and repeatedly as he turns his aggression to his new, direct opponent. The pain was severe and he sought comfort in stealing as much time as necessary to tend to his wound. Clavier had hastened upon the moment well, obtaining the benefit of striking the next attack once more.

 

 

 

"Shit..." Tarquin swore to himself once more as he struggled to grasp for his sword as the presumably armed, Tobias quickly closed the distance. Amadi had been entirely preoccupied at this point, there was nothing he could do to intervene. Tarquin lowered his head and slowly shut his eyes as he prepared for the inevitable, chilling, embrace of death.

 

"Unbelievable.." he lamented to himself silently in complete disgust as a concluding testament to his final moments and the failures that had ensnared him.

 

 

-.....-

 

-.....-

 

 

 

*KLANG*

*shuffle*

[align=left]*Fwathump*                                                   ((Oh god... that onomatopeia...))

[/align]

 

 

"....?"

 

Time seemed to have stood still at that particular moment. Was he alive? Was he dead? Amadi could not have possibly delayed Tobias' strike. He had to be dead. Tarquin remained idle in his thoughts for what seemed like forever before he finally raised his head slowly to investigate the situation and the source of the peculiar noises. 

 

His eyes widened in disbelief as he witnessed Senaca standing defiantly between him and a momentarily debilitated Tobias. Having being encapsulated in the quickly ensuing events that had led up to the chocobo attack, he had completely forgotten about his ace-in-the-hole. Senaca, the female highlander whom he had initially planned to either capture the second female or one of the archers, had taken upon her own initiative to emerge from the shadows and spare Tarquin the precious seconds he needed to scramble towards his sword and reclaim it securely within his grip.

 

Regardless of Tobias' skill, her speed and agility had surely proven enough to fend off his attack in the time it took for her to emerge from the shadows and stand between him and his target. Tarquin hesitated briefly as he struggled to grasp the situation before finally realising what had happened. While he quickly struggled towards his weapon, Senaca continued remaining vigilant and primed should her attack have proven ill-landed, as uncommon as that was for the warrior. A lock of coral-red hair hung loosely across her shadowed, hazelnut eyes as they met briefly with those of Tobias. Though both her daggers were posed ready before her, she had refused to use them against the unarmed midlander. Rather, the 'klang' noise had been created solely by herself clashing both blades together to serve as a momentary deterrent, one to enunciate her sudden presence before Tarquin that would result in Tobias instinctively slowing or attempting to halt his charge. She wasted no time in immediately countering him with a nimble yet powerful reverse roundhouse kick towards his chest in attempt to both wind and briefly disable him. Her swift thinking had saved Tarquin's life, buying him sufficient time to fully reclaim himself.

 

 

 

Tarquin clambered to his feet messily as he hastily grabbed a hold of the lifeline Senaca had offered him. His eyes quickly traveled to the back of her hood as he sought to collect his thoughts.

 

 

"The others... take care of them and protect our flank" Tarquin instructed in a hoarse and shaky voice as he threw his blade to the side as a means of directing his companion towards the direction of the caravan. He displayed no desire to show his due gratitude towards his silent guardian. Turning her head over her shoulder to offer a brief nod, Senaca quickly departed, sprinting off into the darkness to better make use of a stealthy ambush once more for when she would locate the targets that had disappeared from view.

 

Tarquin steadied himself, training his glare once more on Tobias and the chocobo that had rendezvoused alongside him.

 

"Cute.." he sneered as he studied both man and beast, though it was likely inaudible above the roaring storm.

 

Tobias had proven anything but foolish nor a man for bluffs. However, this time Tarquin was alert and ready. He would not succumb to any more tricks so easily. He formed a defensive stance this time, deciding to allow Tobias or his pet to make the next move this time, much like Amadi.

[Lorielle Sylwood]

Lorielle's bright eyes flicked back and forth, watching the ensuing fight.  Near her feet, the earth had broken apart, wet sand shifting and falling off of the rising stone.  Her eyes narrowed as a third party emerged from seemingly nowhere, attacking Tobias and saving the other bandit's life.

 

Before Lorielle could carry out her attack, Tobias's assailant had retreated into the shadows again.  Lorielle shifted her focus to the bandit who had gotten away. He was so close, yet appeared to have no remembrance of the Elezen woman.  His attention was fixed on Tobias.  It gave Lorielle the opening she had been waiting for.

 

"This is for raising your hand to me," she said, muttering at first before raising her voice into a slight roar.  She swung her staff up, spinning quickly and forcing the stone and dirt up and out of the ground.  Flinging her staff like a bat, the dense stones sailed through the air, aiming directly for the back of the unsuspecting man's head.

 

Whether or not the attack landed, Lorielle prepared herself for another attack.  She took on a different stance, holding her staff out to her side.  Her body was tense, the muscles in her arms bulging, her collar bones protruding from sunken skin.  Rain fell from the long strands of hair that had fallen free from her braid, dripping and cascading like streams.  The flaming tree nearby cast her in an orange glow, the light flickering and dancing with the rain.

 

Although the Elezen woman started this trip looking clean, dainty, and proper, she now looked primal and feral.  Hair fell before her gleaming turquoise eyes, narrowed and locked onto what would now be her prey.

[Nirri]

Shit... He's still alive! Flashed through Clavier's mind as the blood seeped from across the wound on the highlanders chest. Two more. Two more minutes he figured he had left before his physical condition would start to deteriorate rapidly, his footsteps carrying forward closer to the highlander to continue with his attack. Get hit. Deteriorate directly but possibly succeed?

 

He had no choice at this moment as he watched the steel butt of the greataxe moving in his direction, His entire posture shifting to show his left shoulder completely to the man, his blade moving above his own head. After but a few moments the pain and sound of a bone either shattering followed. Clavier's left arm going completely limb upon the impact of the steel butt. NOW!

 

The internal screaming of pain and mind seemed to fuel his desperation to end this fight as quickly as possible. A steel black blade swung downwards aimed to either cleave into the man's shoulder and neck area or just strike upon the man's chest once more. The highlander would easily be able to identify the desperation in his action but Clavier's condition had caused him to take the impact of the steel butt rather then dodge it causing him to be in a rather close position to the man.

[K'nahli]

OOC:

 

I know it seems quick but I asked Tobias ahead of time and this is merely to give him something to respond to based on Lorielle's quick reaction following my previous tag >w<;

 

 

Amadi's desperate swing unexpectedly made contact with the hyur, striking him brutishly as it smashed through his left shoulder and disabled the arm entirely. In truth, Amadi did not expect such an attack to land but the diminishing state of the blonde hyur had rendered him much weaker than normal. The force felt from striking the man resonated through the shaft of the axe and throughout Amadi like the rippling waves through water. He could barely see his target from his still-stumbling movement but a wry smile quickly cracked through that of his formerly, pained grimace. He had the advantage. He was going to win despite the wound he had suffered mere seconds ago. Quickly establishing his grip on the axe and reclaiming his footing once more, the highlander lunged towards the smaller male, briefly oblivious to the pain as he pursued to strike down his prey in a sudden rush of adrenaline.

 

 

*slice*

 

 

Amadi glared down at the midlander as he continued holding the axe high above his head. The grin was still present on his face as his beady, black eyes met with those held by the pained, wincing stare of Clavier. Their gaze remained locked together in a moment's silence between the two as all external sounds seemed to have disappeared into the night.

A small, pool of maroon-dyed liquid slowly overflowed from the lower corner of Amadi's chapped lips. He coughed hoarsely, yet softly as a tear slipped free from his eye and quickly rolled down the side of his face. His breathing had almost entirely ceased where all that could be heard was his gentle yet agonized wheezing. His grip on the axe weakened and allowed it to fall free from his overhead grip and land with a thud into the muddy soil below. He struggled to hold his own weight as he stumbled a step backwards, followed moments later by yet another. Slowly he turned his head to analyze the wound he had suffered from Clavier's deadly strike. It had slashed cleanly through his left shoulder and cleaved partially downwards towards his chest. His heavy body collapsed under him, forcing him down to a knee as he fought with every last ounce of strength he had left to try and remain standing, but to no avail. Unable to make any sound other than his raspy struggle for breath, his eyes met once again with Claviers before finally collapsing to the ground with a soft thump. The rain water that collected along his cloak flowed towards his upper-body before leaking off into the soggy ground, collecting the darkened crimson that pooled beneath him before carrying it through various channels along the soft ground away from his lifeless body.

 

 

 

 

Lorielle's moment of choosing was mildly unfortunate. Tarquin, in his more alerted and defensive state, was prepared for the next incoming attack, regardless of where it came from. Though he was briefly uncertain of the source, he left no more room for negligence after Tobias' previous display. He dodged left as he heard the crackling of rock rise up behind him in attempt to strike his back. The rock pushed swiftly through the air and clipped the right side of his body, forcing him to stumble softly. The strike was powerful, albeit, he managed to sustain his balance this time. He exhaled sharply, quickly glancing about the area only to detect Lorielle wielding a staff a distance away. She began preparing for a follow-up attack but Tarquin would not allow her the pleasure of succeeding a second hit on him. His eyes quickly traveled sidewards towards Tobias, revealing a sly smirk as he did so before he abandoned the fight and made swiftly towards the conjurer. Tarquin was surely forcing Tobias' hand with such a bold move. He retained his focus on the conjurer as he studied her movements carefully, ready to dodge her next attack when she had concluded channeling.

 

Though she was not his true target.

[Tobias Nightbringer]

Tobias had not faltered in attacks, movements, and planning, the end phase nearly brought to a swift end. Just an ilm more and he could finally end this and be done with this ordeal. Though eyes were kept on Tarquin, he was still aware of his surroundings due to Amadi being nearby. However, there was nothing that could stop the helpless bandit in his final moments as the Hyur goes in for a single, calculated strike. Or so Tobias had thought.

 

        Then she showed up. The 'klang' of Senaca's blades were enough for the Midlander to stop dead in his tracks. Even though he might have been alert, the woman had caught Tobias off-guard, his assault suddenly turns to the defensive as he manages to raise a hand in front of his chest to try and deflect the kick. It would be of little use even with his blocking hand as the attack was powerful enough to carry through the hand and hit squarely on his chest. The only saving grace the Midlander had was; one his breath was still intact, and two he was not completely knocked flat on his ass. The Hyur stumbles back a few steps before his foot plants firmly into the sinking dirt beneath him to regain his balance. Undoubtedly by the time Tobias could assess the situation, Tarquin was back on his feet. Best laid plans of mice and men.

 

        A woman with the coral-red tress would not engage any further in combat with the man she had moments ago kicked, but vice-versa for him as well. Beads of water drip rapidly from his black bangs that could disappear into the darkness of the night were it not for the fire from the tree. The strands hung heavily over his face as he simply watches her. The ordeal itself causes no change in Tobias' demeanor. Still the calm displaces around him, oddly serene almost. His expression blank. As quickly as she appears, she began to make her exit as instructed by Tarquin, however, Tobias does not chase after her. Eyes masked by the night trail over the woman as she slips back into the shadows, now his attention instantly snaps back to Tarquin again.

 

        Tobias was mildly surprised that Lorielle was back in the fray and throwing chunks of earth with the intensity and intent of her voice clearly heard while assaulting Tarquin. The Hyur with the blood-stained tunic from earlier took a glance over to the Elezen woman. Even with the light from the fire that began to finally die, the change from Lorielle's pristine and proper air to something entirely in contrast was evident. Tobias would have to keep that in mind if there were to be another time he found himself teasing or being playful with the woman.

 

        The Midlander was not sure if the glance over to the Elezen was what triggers Tarquin's next action, but regardless of the fact, just as Tobias looks at Tarquin he notices the green-eyed side-faced glance--and then the bandit took off towards the Conjurer. For the first time, Tobias' hand was indeed forced by his opponent. What choice did he have but chase the fleeing coward?

 

        He sinks the teeth of his boots into the soaked earth beneath and bursts off in a sprint as he signals his Chocobo to take flight. With a 'Kweh' the bird too chases after Tarquin, but moving to the man's flank so when they would eventually either catch up to him or at least stop their chase, the bandit would again be faced with two fronts.

 

        Fire from the tree finally started to succumb to the relentless assault of wind and water. Though the tormented moans of the winds had fell in decibel the rain was incessant. As the conflict went thus far, everyone would soon be fighting in darkness again, the dull-cast of a pale moon would only give slight illumination as it stays tucked under a dark blanket of clouds.

 

        The running man did not get far with his steps before he notices the lack of movement where Amadi and Clavier were. Eyes quickly follow the channel of blood that snakes along the ground before washed away by the rain. Amadi--a fitting end to a brutish fighter. Whatever Clavier's state may be, Tobias delegates to his fellow in combat, "Clavier! We have time to rest when we are dead. Get to Kieaira!" his last words carry the urgency of battle. Though his focus was on Tarquin, not once did his mind stray from the fact that another joined the fray. Tobias had to stay two steps ahead of the game. After all, it was how he kept alive.

 

        Drops of rain sting into the unblinking eyes of the Hyur with dark features after he passes by Clavier, not losing sight or focus on Tarquin. At least so long as the fire stays alive. His jaw tightens as eyes narrow slightly with an intensity that begins to quietly amass in the reflection of his dark gaze. Tobias would not let that man take hold of Lorielle. As long as he drew breath; It. Will. Not. Happen. Not again.

[Kieairakitty]

Kieaira sank into the wet sand, as the rain continued to fall causing a chill to pass over the small Miqo'te woman. The fire behind her was dying away, and in the next second the land around them was once more cast into shadow, the scent of burning wood strong on the breeze.

 

In the darkness it was hard to spot the Miqo'te woman, thankfully for her, her eyes were adapt to such low lighting. She pulled herself out of the mud and trenched towards the tent, the thunder and lightning seemed to have stopped ... perhaps the rain would soon cease as well.

 

Into the tent she crawled, the sleeping bags had all been laid out and should have travelers sleeping soundly within, but alas the battle raged on outside. Kieaira narrowed her eyes as she looked around in the darkness before finally spotting it ... her bag! Tucked away in a corner, it looked as if someone had arranged it to be used as a pillow, but that didn't bother her.

 

She crawled over to the bag, pulled off her shoes that were filled with water and mud, before pulling off her top and dropping it into a pile with a slosh. She reached into the bag and pulled out a long cloak with a cowl that would hide the white colour of her hair and ears and pulled it on over her still wet pants. Next she found the sandals she had packed away and slipped them on, sure they would get wet, but would be much more comfortable than the soaked and heavy cloth shoes she had been wearing.

 

She pushed the bag back into the corner and moved to the entrance to the tent, opening it just a slit so she could look out. The tent was on an angle so she could only partially see the others as they fought near the caravan. She swallowed hard, fear gripping at her heart ... she had to do something... She took in a deep breath and darted from the tent, the cowl was dark and helped to conceal her much better.

 

She moved at the speed of a quick walk, doing her best not to be noticed, and as far as she knew the others were busy fighting. She was heading away from the make-shift camp, towards the direction of Black Brush station, but just how far she would get on her own was unknown ... or would she even return?

 

 

(( To clarify - Kieaira is trying to sneak back to Black Brush station to try and get help - she will come back - that is if no one stops her ))

 

[Lorielle Sylwood]

Lorielle's eyes narrowed in unison with the dying of the fire, bright turquoise slipping behind dark shadows.  It intensified the malevolence of her stare as she watched the hulking man darting toward her.  She swung her staff across her, now holding it an angle in front of her shoulder.  She was preparing for another attack when she noticed two more figures coming up behind her first assailant.

 

Even in the dark she could make out the silhouette of Tobias, and she assumed the long-legged figure running alongside him was his chocobo.  His presence changed things, for the better, she hoped.  She shifted her stance, holding the staff firmly in two hands.  If she could hold her attacker off for a few moments, keeping his back to Tobias, they would have a good advantage of pinning them between the three of them.

 

But Lorielle would have to be watchful for the bandit's third, hidden party.  With both her and Tobias fixed on the last remaining man, the woman would emerge again and take her advantage.  Although she would still be three to one, if all went well.

 

Lorielle braced herself for an attack from any direction, at any angle.  She gritted her teeth as the man drew ever closer, already playing multiple scenarios through her mind.

[Nirri]

The man had fallen onto his knee and locked eyes with Clavier. A raspy sigh escaping Clavier as he took a few staggered steps backwards, the weak grip on his blade being released as the body fell over completely in the sand infront of his feet. "I-..." he managed to bring out before Tobias gave him an order.

 

Without any confirmation given he turned in the direction of the wagon where he had last seen Kieara. Blood flowing down from his right hand and the left arm that hung useless at his side. Each step followed by a pained groan, to anyone observing him he would seem to struggle with even taking the smallest step.

 

"Kie-..Kieara?" he brought out with a pained voice as he neared the cart, It's starting. My vision. The green irises turning yellow as he grunted, forcing most of his energy into a technique called 'Hawk's eye'. Noticing Kieara's movements somewhat easier in the darkness but it quickly faded and was replaced by a blurry sight just as he had approached her. His right and working arm reaching out for her wrist.

[K'nahli]

Tarquin smiled menacingly to himself as he continued charging towards Lorielle. His pace was brisk but not quite as fast as Tobias'. He was no fool, however. His authenticity had no reason to be pulled into question for he did not hold back enough to allow his motives to fall under suspicion. His heavy boots splashed through the various, muddy pools that littered the ground around them, kicking up water as he did so. The sound from Tobias giving chase could also be heard, the tempo more brisk however. Tarquin needn't have even peered backwards to confirm the distance, for the echoing sounds growing closer and louder gave enough information for him to pinpoint Tobias' position accurately.

 

Lorielle's channeling was taking longer than expected. Were he to guess, she was waiting for the right moment, for him to draw just close enough to make the most out of her next cast. Tarquin's smile only grew wider with this observation, letting out a pleased grunt as he did so.

 

*tap tap tap tap tap tap*

*taptaptap tap taptap tap*

 

The distance as they both charged together in Lorielle's direction almost seemed of great magnitude as so many thoughts raced together within a short space of time. Alas, the moment was almost upon them.

 

("Just a little closer") Tarquin thought silently to himself as he raised his weapon up, priming it ready to quickly deliver a clean swipe through the conjurer as if to use the momentum to aid the power of the strike.

 

("Almost..........THERE")

 

 

Tarquin propelled himself marginally into the air, quickly drawing both legs closely together before slamming them back into the ground, wide and angled to bring himself to an abrupt stop. It took only a second for him to claim total balance. He used that insignificant down time to twist at the waist and draw his sword far behind himself in preparation to deliver a swift strike straight to Tobias' body right at the moment he drew within range.

 

Tarquin narrowed his predatory eyes as he prepared to swing. A vicious smirk coupled with his relentless, hawk-eyed stare revealed a sadistic enthusiasm for the imminent blow he would soon deliver to his rival. A sharp exhale announced the moment he released his restraint on the weapon. Like a current of electricity traveling throughout his body, a ripple of changes swiftly radiated outwards from his core. His pupils suddenly constricted in focus as the muscles in his upper arms tensed and shot in an arcing angle outwards and through Tobias' path. His upper body twisted promptly as it followed through with the arcing swing. The sound of the steel slicing through the young hyur's flesh resounded clearly even through the raging storm, followed immediately after, by the magnificent spray of his ruby-coloured blood that splattered tiny droplets across Tarquin's face and cloak.

 

Tarquin exhaled once more in delight as he took a very brief moment to revel in his success. However, Lorielle was still a threat and would soon react to his actions. He could not afford to lose the advantage. Quickly turning towards Tobias, Tarquin rapidly charged straight towards him choosing to ram him from behind in an attempt to knock him towards the ground. Ensuring a fatal blow would likely have given Lorielle enough time to disrupt him before he could strike, he could not allow himself to get cocky.

 

 

OOC - Please Read

 

 

Kieaira would like to be the next person to tag to please treat it as though she has posted a placeholder following this post

 

And as always, please message me if you want me to make changes to my tag.

 

 

 

OOC - For Kieaira

 

 

It was a typo ;-;

 

 

[Kieairakitty]

I am going to be busy for the next day or two

So if it's possible, more so asking Clavier, if Kieaira could have just disappeared into the night for the time being - having returned to Black Brush station to retrieve some help. I'll post again in a day or two once things get back to normal around here ^-^

Also K'nahli it's she not he   Thanks guys! - If you need me Tobias has my Skype or you can send me a PM and I'll respond when I get a chance.

 

[Nirri]

Seeing Kieaira made a post regarding her being OOCly occupied and I tottaly respect that. I just posted this quick follow up tag.

 

 

 

It took him a few moments to realise that it wasn't actually Kieaira he had approached but more the moving canvas that covered the roof of the cart that had pulled itself loose due to the heavy winds. The red palm of his hand pressing against his face as the pain rushed through his shivering body.

 

A strike of lightning lit up the area as his sight shifted between blurry and sharp, sand sliding along his feet with each step closer to his destination. A single bow and quiver laying half covered with the contaminated water near the cadaver of the toxic toad, At this rate we'll all die. She's out there. 

 

 

He had to take a few risks as his fingers scooped up the bow and only two arrows, small drops of the purple toxin falling onto the sand and other drops licked at blood soaked fingers. A weakened voice screaming above the raging sound of the thunder. "Hey! I killed your friend like the pig he is! Stop hiding in the shadows."

 

 

The screaming more-so intended for the female assailant and Tarquin himself to make them aware of what he had done and as distraction even in his most weakest condition, rain slipping down his glistening torso as he fell onto one of his knees within the sand, his breathing only becoming more sporadic. The bow soon following as it's weight dragged itself from within the fingertips of his useless left arm into the wet sand. An easy prey it would almost seem.

[Kieairakitty]

And I'm back, though you guys really didn't have to wait for me ... Kieaira is mostly MIA anyways, heading back to Black Brush Station lol.

 

 

Unrestricted, she continued through the rain in the direction of what she thought was Black Brush Station. The thunder and lightening had stopped, and the rain had slowed down somewhat, but it had made the sand covered roads slippery, and she found her sandals sinking into the ground more often than not.

 

She wrinkled her nose in disgust, the feeling of wet sand between her toes, the fur on her ears and tails soaked, and beneath the heavy cloak she was still wet and cold. "AH-CHOO!" She sneezed loudly, nearly shocking herself as she pulled the cloak tighter to her chest.

 

She could see well enough in the dark, but was rather unfamiliar with the region. We passed by that tree on the way ... didn't we? She paused and turned around looking back towards the cart where the others battled, but she could no longer see it. Maybe I should just go back... No, they need help.

 

She headed off again, but it was not but a few seconds her ears twitched. Footsteps? "W-who's there?" Her voice rang out into the night, but no reply came. She began to move faster, the footsteps seemed to follow her. It's the bandits! They followed me! She began to run, a few more steps and she found herself falling face first into the muck.

 

A sharp pain in her ankle after she fell caused a low groan to emit from the back of her throat. She tried to push herself up, causing her to cry out in pain. Broken? Her eyes began searching the area, were her attackers upon her? Would someone help?

 

Another sound of scuffling and she turned her head, a figure came at her from the darkness, and a short scream escaped her lips, cut off suddenly as a hand wrapped around her mouth, and familiar blue eyes shone back at her through the darkness.

 

"Shhh!" Draevyns smooth voice floated past her ear as he leaned in close. "You shouldn't have gone off on your own." He said in a whisper, obviously not wanting to alert any one to their presence. "Why are you wandering off?" Slowly he pulled his hand back, and slipped his arm beneath her knees, picking her up out of the muck.

 

"I was going for help."

 

"You're not even going the right way." He started walking off in an unknown direction, carrying her in his arms. "And now you've gone and got yourself hurt." He scolded.

 

Kieaira said nothing, she was thankful that someone had come to help her, but felt even more like a burden, her ears wilting at the thought. Draevyn had come to the rescue, but had left the others to fight the bandits on their own.

[Tobias Nightbringer]

Tobias utters an inaudible curse that drowns in the rain as Tarquin's plan had came to fruition. He takes to a knee shortly after he passes by Tarquin's counter-strike.

 

        Despite any thoughts that may have cross his mind when he chased after his opponent, Tobias would narrow back to one singular focal point--Lorielle. Conjurer. Would he have taken a different course of action if she were anything but? If he were to think upon that question, there would be no luxury of time to give an answer as the assailant went to strike down the woman--or so it seemed.

 

        It was a split second decision and there was too much momentum to stop entirely, so instead Tobias tries to push past towards the incoming arc in a clockwise spin. However quick Tobias was to react to Tarquin's feigned assault on Lorielle, the man proves himself capable enough to devise his own strategies and time when to strike. For that reason, Tobias would not go unharmed from this exchange.

 

   "They take priority. Always."

 

        The saying resonates through him as Tobias remains stoic despite Tarquin's blade biting into him. There was a steely edge to his gaze as he glances down to see metal splice through skin, leaving rivulets of crimson to appear wherever the sword glides through. It was not so deep that it would prove fatal, however, it strikes true enough to where his right pectoral would be gashed under the clavicle. The cut would travel all the way and exit from his right shoulder. The warmth from his own blood contrasts against the relentless cold of the pelting rain, but it matters little to him; the Conjurer was left unharmed.

 

        Like the ebb and flow of the rolling tides of Limsa, Tobias executes the rest of his spin in a graceful spiral down until he takes a knee as if he were not struck at all, though the tell tale sign of bright red blood mixing into the sands would tell a much different story. Though his back was turned to Tarquin, his steely gaze never left vision of him; and like the violent waves of Limsa during a typhoon, he was unyielding in his movements. He was already back in motion, moving back up while he turns to meet Tarquin's charge as if to meet him head-on. Naturally, Tobias had other plans.

 

        As the Hyur gets back up after being struck down, his hands dig into the saturated sands of Thanalan. Clumps of wet earth fling suddenly from his hands the moment he turns to face Tarquin. In a more comical sense, it would look like Tobias was making a poor attempt to mimic Lorielle's skillful use of combining aether and nature into one. In reality, there was enough damned sand that was catapulted up towards Tarquin that it could easily blind or temporarily stagger the man. Tobias would have to give thanks to the Keeper of the Twin Moons if the darkness hides his actions until it was too late to react.

 

        The Chocobo would not let it's presence be so easily forgotten either! The large beast dashes towards Tarquin the moment he had stopped to strike Tobias, and would soon be upon the man that now attempts to ram the Chocobo's owner. Regardless if Tarquin were to face the beast or leave his back exposed, the Chocobo would strike out in a vicious kick with it's talons.

 

        Now the only question remains: would Tobias follow up his assault and charge back at Tarquin if he were blinded by the rain of sand or would the man with the Chocobo have to rely on his companion to assist him again in his counter-strike?

[K'nahli]

The bandit's eyes flared in immediate apprehension. Quickly turning his head and raising an arm to try and protect his eyes from a dampened, clump of sand that Tobias had cutely chosen to blind him with, the man came to an abrupt stop. As quick as his reactions were however, they were not enough to save him from the attack. The blackened, sludge sailed stealthily through the night air and collected predominantly in his left eye - with a few loose grains finding their way in his right. Tarquin let out a grievous howl in response before quickly attempting to clean his eyes with a brisk wipe of his balled fists. His right eye stung fiercely in spite of it being the least affected, though his quick reaction at the very least had allowed him to retain sight within it.

 

 

"KWWEEEHHHH!!!"

 

The only indication of the impending strike. The noise from the beast's hurried pace towards the hyur had been completely dampened by the torrential rain and allowed it to quickly close the distance on Tarquin to the point where it became too late for the man to react. The bandit quickly jolted his head to the left in time to see a wall of feathers encapsulate the little he retained of his blurry sight before he was sent flying backwards through the air with a tremendous kick. The beast's strength was understandably exceptional and had temporarily winded the male as he lay writhing on his back on the ground within the collection of mud-saturated pools. Regardless, the adrenaline coursed through his veins relentlessly. If he gave his foes an ilm now it would all be over for him. Quickly raising his weapon upwards and waving it both blindly and aggressively, Tarquin succeeded in staving off any follow up attack from the giant bird as he clambered back to his feet.

 

"W-We'll see... how arrogant you are a-after I gut your fucking pet, Garlean" Tarquin spat viciously, struggling to speak after having suffered the chocobo's blow, as he removed one hand from his weapon's grip to briefly clean the remainder of the sludge from his eyes. He couldn't open his left eye and his right squinted painfully in the direction of Tobias. Albeit, it was enough to finish what he had started. Reaching then for his cloak, Tarquin tore it away from his body and cast it high and away into the darkness of the night in order to grant himself better mobility. His face was blackened with water-running dirt as the lashing rain washed down upon his exposed form.

It was time to finish this. Loot or no, these travelers would not live to see the light of another day.

 

 

 

A distance away, Draevyn and Kiearia were now faced with their own predicament as Senaca calmly emerged from the shadows and took position to obstruct both their paths. Her fiery eyes sternly met with the males' as she pointed towards him, announcing herself in a commanding tone.

 

"Lower the miqo'te".

 

Her voice was unusually pleasant for one in her position, though at the same time, authoritative. Were it not for her previous assault on Tobias and her menacing daggers, one would hardly assume she posed any threat.

 

"I have no interest in harming a non combatant. My fight is with you, lancer".

[Tobias Nightbringer]

If Tarquin's words were heard by Tobias, he would show no recognition of them. Instead, Tobias was unsure why the attack from Lorielle did not come. He expects her to strike any moment, but yet there was nothing. Whatever the reason for the absence, he takes a swift glance over to where Lorielle was, or rather where she was supposed to be. Just as his eyes shift over to look for her, a sudden burst of aether surrounds the Elezen's form and just as quickly as the light came, it disappears--along with her.

 

Twelve be damned...

 

         On the bright side, she seems to at least be out of danger. On the not so bright side, he has no idea where she is cast off to, let alone there no longer is a healer in place of her if Tobias were to get out of this scrap alive. However, that was of no concern to him right now. Despite the bleeding cut across his chest and shoulder, Tobias gives no indication of discomfort. If anything, he was annoyed that his tunic was getting rather tattered from the wear and tear.

 

        The lightning still would tear across the Eorzean night, however very seldom now as the clouds give way to the dullest light of the moon that befalls the scene. A blessing for any that was not able to see in the near pitch black as now at least their outlines could be seen without having to be at kissing distance.

 

        Tobias gives no words to Tarquin's sneer or threat. That time was long past. Instead, Tobias suddenly streaks across the sands with a speed and agility that would only be surpassed perhaps by a Miqo'te. Hopefully he would move fast enough to catch the bandit off-guard. All Tobias needs is a moment of hesitation to be in striking distance. With a flick of his wrist, he motions his Chocobo to take flight again, and the beast moves in a semi-circle to try and flank his sides.

 

        Chocobo and master get into striking distance almost at the same time, but Tobias would act first. Tobias makes a full frontal assault as he dashes towards Tarquin and lowers his upper torso to seemingly strike at Tarquin's midsection. In reality, it was merely a feint in hopes that Tarquin would thrust his blade forward. If Tarquin falls for the bait, Tobias was ready to suddenly make a right-step counter-clockwise twirl in avoidance. In that spin would come the true strike of a rising kick that whips around and aims for Tarquin's head. This was also before the Chocobo's strike from Tarquin's right flank that would soon follow after Tobias' attack. With a lunge of it's head, the Chocobo would snap it's massive beak, aiming for Tarquin's shoulder.