Lorndale Village: Along the Erinin

This small village during normal times would act as both a safe stop along the Erinin for ships before they would reach Tar Valon as well as a farming and fur hunting community. Due to the floods however, the town is in dire straights, the normally peaceful Erinin is flooding completely over the banks of the river. Water has risen up three spans and seems to be rising every day as the winter snows thaw in the north. This seasons crops are ruined. Only one building remains able to be used, the Lorndale Inn, having been built at the tallest hill in the area, however the rising waters are reaching up to even it's door.

Gerrick, Naileve, Claire

A shout passes its way down through the village, sounding frantic yet gleeful. "Riders are coming, riders are coming!" Some return shouts, asking who it might be, if they recognize anyone, or if its just another false hope. Yet, at the same time, most of the villagers become rather attentive, turning their heads in the direction of where the original shout came from.

True to the word of those announcing the arrival of riders, several do come into sight; perhaps close to seventy or eighty in numbers. Riding at the lead is Cristov, one of the villager boys sent along with Bartok and Claire, also vollagers, to gain aid from the city of Tar Valon. Those others with them have horses of their own, or ride in wagons, carrying much needed tools and supplies to help with the rescue efforts of the floods. Cristov gallops ahead, leaving the others behind, giving a whooping call back to his friends and family.

Making his way through the crowd in a stately manner, or as stately as one can be covered in mud, comes Ezekiel. As the mayor passes by people he gives a smile to some, a friendly word to others and generally makes his way towards the head of the crowd without seeming to neglect any of his fellow villagers in passing.

having been near the head of the crowd pacing as she waits Marisa's eyes shine as she sees the crowd of people entering the village. She turns to one of the other women with her "go get the others of the council." Seeing Ezekial she nods "It is non to late I am glad they have finally arrived. I though we would have to send you to look for them Ezekial."

The rumored Cairhien Lord, a small man upon his small horse, rides among the group of helpers. Dressed in silver and gray, the quality of his clothing alone might cause him to stand out among the rest, though certainly it isn't his size. Riding behind him, ten strong-armed men that could be stereotyped as thugs rather then guards, well armed but following the course of the man that is paying them. And behind that, a carriage of supplies being directed by a maid and her young son. Gerrick's features are unconcerned.

Peering in front of her, it just comes natural to think that Naileve never seen something other than snow reaching those levels. Keeping sit on a wagon, just next to the rider's post, she frowns a little, surprised to see that even just plain water could actually flood something. She hasn't taken lightly the decision of coming to help the village, therefore this sight wasn't enough to discourage her, especially given her studborness. She glances about, like waiting to see what the others are going to do, before doing something herself.

Reese is walking quietly behind Naileve, his dark Tairen eyes trying to watch everything. Unarmed and ordinary, what this young man does or is remains a mystery. If he is Tairen, though, he's no stranger to floods, that's for sure.

On the back of a chestnut mare sits one of Tar Valon's ambassadors, looking anything but ambassador-like in her attire. Shallenne rides along quietly towards the front of the party, dark eyes taking in the surrounding area, the slightest of frowns creasing her olive brow at sight of the mud and water. As they ride closer, she picks out the figures waiting, a smile quickly forming on her lips, frown disappearing.

Aaron walks quitely along one of the wagons, his horse tied to it. He looks straight ahead of himself, waiting patiently for the others to make the move. His cape moves with the wind, occasionally showing his sword with the heron mark on it. His eyes are unfocused, prooving that he is here simply because he had nothing else to do.

Claire glances to the side, to spy Shallenne not far off. She guides her own mare over to where the woman rides. "Cristov, always striving to get a head of everyone and everything." She shakes her head lightly. "We are but a few more minutes away, and then we'll be in plain sight of the village. If you think the others could handle it, we could pick up the pace a bit, but I'd be wary of the damage the river has done to our lands." There is a forlorn expression within Claire's own eyes, having seen more damage to those lands already than when they had left.

Bartok simply watches as Cristov rides ahead, grunting something under his breath. Glancing sideling toward Claire, he notices her riding off to speak with the Ambassador who had the good graces to come with them. He smiles good naturedly toward Shallene, then glances concernedly behind him toward the others. Mentally, he starts counting, just to make certain no one got lost along the way.

Malcom ponders the scene, not exactly what he had anticipated when he signed up for this trip.

"I don't think there's any need to pick up the pace," Shallenne replies to Claire as she rides over. "Best to save our energy for the task ahead I think. Besides.. if we carry on at this pace, Cristov will have time to rouse everyone to greet us. I think that will be good for the spirits." She leans forward, giving her horse a sound pat on the neck, the last part of the journey not having been the easiest on the horses.

Finally reaching the head of the crowd that has assemlbed to greet the new arrivals, Ezekiel smiles, even managing to put some hope into the smile. Hope being on short supply in the village. Hearing the Wisdom's remark he hmphs and comments gruffly, "I would not leave my viallage in need, but it is good I did not have to send anyone else for some assistance."

Claire chuckles lightly, nodding her head a bit. "That, at least, I think would be a good thing. We're already behind schedule. I'm still wincing at the time we had to take to fix the wheel on that wagon." During the trip, one of the wheels on a cart broke, delaying them a day or two until it could be fixed. "But, I suppose that couldn't be helped.

Perhaps a touch unsocial, Gerrick continues to lead his small troop of 'thugs' toward the troubled village. He spares one glance back at the men. In response, the grim features turn to something more friendly-like if such a thing was possible for most of them.

And indeed, Cristov does make his way to the village before the others, a great big grin on his features. He goes straight toward the Wisdom and the Mayor, not really mindful of the mud the horse kicks up and manages to spray on those he passes to get to them. Stopping short, the horse skids, or rather slides to a halt. The young boy vaults off of the back of the horse, and lands before the Wisdom and Mayor, bowing deeply. He gives them both a sort of 'I told you so' look, "A bit late, but we're back. And!" he exclaims, "we have help. Lots of help!"

Marisa simply nods to Ezeiel and tries to brush the mud from her hands onto the underside of the apron she put on. She then pushes back her hair and looks to the newcomers. The other women make their way to where Marisa stands and assemble behind her, as they should she being the head and all. "Ezekial it looks like there are enough to help but I hope it is not to late." she shakes her head.

Naileve Naileve is obviously eager to jump down the wagon and do something. However, the tiny, unnoticeable shards of her common sense seem to have convincted her to NOT do anything herself unless ordered to do so. She gives another glance about, as if calculating wether the group of helpers would be enough to fix whatever problem they would encounter. She takes a look at the crowd in front of them, wondering how much the villagers actually count on them.

Ezekial loses some of his smile and looks at Cristov with a stern face. "That is all good and well, but lateness or bringing help shouldn't excuse you of manners." If Cristov doesn't seem to be understanding the mayor goes on to point to the people sprayed by Cristov's wild ride and says, "We already have enough mud on us that we don't need that sprayed up by galloping horses added to it."

Shaking her head, Shallenne smiles reassuringly at Claire. "We've been fairly lucky I think, that we only lost one wheel. The road isn't in the best of conditions at the moment. But we're all here and ready to do our best." Ever the optimist, her smile brightens as she looks around to the rest of the little troop, before turning her attention back ahead towards the village. There is a small amount of concern in her eyes as she see all that water, for the village, and also for her own fear of the stuff.

Marisa groans as she is again splattered with mud from Cristov. She simply wipes it from her face this time feeling it is useless to even try and look presentable "You have done a good thing Cristov, you and the others of course." she gives the boy a soft smile "We have a lot to do the rain has not let up since you left." She just smile at the Mayor and his still firm formalities even during this time.

Reese watches the young woman on the wagon in front of him, almost intently for a few moments. He has walked all this way, Light only knows why. He nods to himself as he looks around, though.

Aaron looks up seeing the villagers. He tilts his head and looks around scratching his nose. He seems to be assesing the damage and whether there is any other danger except the weather. Seeing none, he nods to himself and patiently waits for actual arrival.

Cristov mutters some apologetic excuses, some of his bubble burst. One of the other villagers comes and takes his gelding; probably making sure that it /is/ going to be cared for, rather then left to Cristov's so called attentions. "Do forgive me, Mayor, Wisdom, but broken wagons are not something we expected. A wheel came off, and it held supplies that were muchly needed. It was either wait a day or two to get the wheel fixed, or have others go back for it later, hands that we might not have been able to spare."

The volunteers manage to get over the rise of the hill. This time, Bartok leads, though not in any formal fashion. He just happens to be at the front of the group. He does urge his horse on a bit more eagerly, glad to be home. Over the rise, water already stretches out over the village lands. Many are working in the mud to build barricades and other equipment needed to push the water back and keep it from destroying everything in sight.

Ezekial nods and accepts the apology, not forcing more from the boy. "A very wise decision indeed. You did good returning in the time you have when we still can use the help to save our village," he says, trying not to keep the boys spirits too down. "Another few days and who knows, you might have found Lorndale Lake, instead of Lorndale Village."

Wiping the dripping mud from her face yet again, Marisa nods in agreement with Ezekial "Yes I have to agree with the mayor on this one." she speaks with the wisdom of the years "Cristov, go to the Inn and be sure the food is ready I ask to be prepared. I am sure you and the others are hungry after such a ride and it will do little good to have that." she looks at the people comeing over the ridge "Cristov do tell the inn's cook the number so that she can stretch the soup for them." she turns and speaks to the other women and just shakes her head in despair.

Naileve rises up from her place, scanning the flooded lands. She was new to floods and at first impact, her curiosity greatly surpassed her purpose of being there. She tries to get on the tip of her toes, in order to see more and attempt detecting what is in dire need of aid and what could wait. She failed, not because she had no sense of determining urgency, but because she lost balance; an 'Eeeeeeeep!' could be heard as she falls down the side of the wagon. Luckily enough, she manages to keep up in her place with her upper body, therefore only letting her legs waver a bit in the air. She climbs back up, taking a deep breath and making a mental notice to NOT make such thing again.

Aaron's lips curve in a slight smile as he sees Naileve stumble.

Reese reacts to Naileve's loss of balance quickly, rushing toward the wagon like any nice young man would, ready to catch her if she does in deed fall. About one pace from her, Naileve catches herself and Reese stops, asking, "Are you alright?"

Malcom moving to help the woman as well, stops as Reese gets there first

Naileve frowns down a little at Reese, "Of course I'm alright! Did you expect me to fall peraphs?". She blushes, her hope that nobody seen her instantly fading with Reese's rush, "Don't worry for me, I can take care of myself", she mutters in some kind of ashamed voice as she looks down, frowning at her own actions.

Gerrick might not be dismounting from his horse anytime soon, being dressed in those light colors. Already splashes of mud are visible on his pants, though he keeps his grumbles to himself. Turning back to the men that he leads, he twists his horse sideways. "Make yourselves /very/ useful..." he urges, and then waves the carriage with supplies over to help with the others.

Reese nods in reply. "I have fallen from a wagon a few times, and appreciated others' concern when I did." He manages a very small smile and says, "But as you say, you can take care of yourself." He falls back to where he was originally, about three or four paces behind the wagon.

Cristov nods respectfully to the Wisdom and Mayor, then trots off to the Inn to do as told. Thankfully, he already counted the volunteers several times to know just how much food is needed.

Claire speaks a bit more with Shallenne about their village and a few other related things. It seems Claire has taken a liking to the woman; having had the Ambassador look out for her and her fellow delegates since they've been in Tar Valon. Making a few parting words, she travels back up to where Bartok rides. Almost are they to where the others wait for them. "Things are we-" Her words are cut off and her head whips back when she hears Naileve screech a little.

Bartok too shows concern, about ready to answer Claire's question when Naileve lets out her yelp of surprise. Seeing that others are taking care of the situation, he does not jump to her rescue as the others did. He nods his thanks to those already doing so, and then turns to eye Gerrick and his 'volunteers'. "Well as can be expected." He anticipages Claire's words. "We'll see once things get started."

Ezekial waits patiently, or tries to anyway, for the rest of the rescue party to arrive. Hands are clasped behind his back as he makes some small talk with the Wisdom while they wait. Trying to decide where the help will best be used.

Marisa watches Cristov enter the inn and comments to the other women "I am sure the people here each have a cup, the soup will not be much but it will at least warm them for a few moments." she again turns to the group, her eyes fall upon the strange little man in the fancy clothing "Ezekial I wonder why such as he," she points to Gerrick "would trouble himself to come out in this mess?" she is most definately the suspicious type but alas any help for her village is appreciated.

Ezekial leans in closer to Marisa so others won't hear his comment and says, "Most likely someone high and migthy in Tar Valon that wants to look good without doing anything."

looking at the Inn, the only standing building left, a concept pervaded into Naileve's mind: food. She was terribly hungry, just like always, and really could have used something to eat... Alas, they were a whole crowd and the food reserves of this village had many chances to be already short without their arrival... But it doesn't matter, Naileve decided she would have been fine with whatever was available.

Shallenne rides back with the rest of the villagers, checking to make sure everything is alright. Once finished, she moves back to half of her original positioning, riding alongside the same wagon which Naileve stumbled upon.

Those riding and walking soon arrive in short order. Claire and Bartok both dismount their horses and hand them off to those awaiting them. The others are also offered a chance to have their mounts relieved from them, to be placed on a picket line not too far away. Claire turns toward Marisa and smiles a touch, "Wisdom... we've come, finally. We're sorry for the delays, but they couldn't have been helped."

Bartok makes his own greetings to the mayor, then adds after Claire, "Not only do we have hands which can help, but food and other supplies"

Aaron lets his horse be unties from behind the wagon and stands not far behind Claire.

Ezekial smiles warmly, "That is very good to hear. All of those are on short supply here now. The waters haven't been very forgiving while you've been away. And Cristov mentioned the difficulties you had while returning." He looks around at all those who have come to help, surveying the help to see what tasks might finally get done and what battles finally won.

Marisa smiles widely at the greeting "we are so very glad you have come back safely. We were growing concerned and were about to send Ezekial out to find you." she listens to the list "Food, my that will be most welcome, I fear we are nearly out and have had to make it stretch the best we can. The elderly and very young are safe but the rest have been working nite and day to keep safe what is left of the village."

Claire nods her head a bit forlornly, then turns her attention to those volunteers who are still making their way to where the rest of ready and waiting to greet them.

In the background, three cheers rise up from the villagers, becoming heartened at the sign of help and with word of food. "Huzzah! Huzzah! Huzzah!" Some even manage to fall in the mud, drunk with renewed hope and excitement.

Aaron waits patiently, slightly smiling at the villagers. He scratches his neck and looks pleased to be there.

Claire smiles brightly at the villagers, then looks back to Marisa, "The volunteers are now yours to direct, Wisdom. I should hope that there are some tasks that we can set them to as soon as they are all fed and welcomed, assuming they want some warmed soup."

Tired of just sitting without doing anything, Naileve gets up and jumps down the wagon. She sprays mud on her own clothes as she does, but that didn't matter, she could stand that and more if it was necessary to get away from there. She rises up, not even trying to wipe away the mud, and starts walking with a rather fast pace, in order to merge with the crowd just as soon as possible.

Marisa nods to Claire in all seriousness "First we shall have them bring their cups to the Inn and at least give them a little of what we have then I am sure the Mayor will find work for them. He has been taking list of all that is needed while the women and I have been tending the ill and injured."

Gerrick is the last to arrive, with his group of men and the carriage that carries supplies. Sighing lightly, as he sits on his small (but fine) horse, he looks across the crowd. Its clear he doesn't particularly want to be here, nor do the men behind him, though they eagerly spread through the crowd to offer their help as they are paid to do.

Ezekial clears his throat and looks, rather glares, at Claire. "We do have a few things that need to be done and the help of these volunteers will help in that. Just this morning came word of a family trapped upon a housetop and there are some of our livestock trapped in the woods. With help building the levies we can have some of our people look for the animals and hopefully rescue the Aldwins'. I really don't know what they thought they could save."

Slipping down from her horses back, Shallenne hands the reins over to Ehric, one of the groom's from the stables of the scholar's guild she persuaded to come along an lend his hand. There aren't many she'd trust with her horse, but she wants to approach the mayor and wisdom on foot, rather than towering above them on horseback. The mud that splatters up with each step is given little mind as she makes her way across to where Claire and the rest of her villagers stand talking.

Reese simply stands and waits silently. He continues his observation of the situation and the people, especially Naileve, though he tries very hard to not stare.

Surprised, Claire takes a step back away from the Mayor at the glare. She hadn't thought she said anything to warrant such a look. She mumbles softly, "I'm sure they thought they'd get something." Quickly making excuses, she extracts herself from both the Wisdom and the Mayor, "If you'll both excuse me, I'll see to getting some of that food myself."

Bartok watches worriedly after Claire, lifting a brow in raised concern, "Wonder what's gotten into her..." The comment is directed toward the Wisdom, as though Marisa would know the answer.

Having missed the little exchange between Claire and the mayor, Shallenne watches as Claire passes her by. "Is everything alright?" she asks, knowing that things in the village are far from being described as that but sure the young woman will understand her meaning.

Naileve just had other to think of rather than worrying about somebody staring at her for whatever reason. She quickly got adapted to the village's situation bu covering half her trousers in mud, and literally covering her clogs as well, thus hiding her feet almost making it look like she was wearing a pair of shoes. She didn't mind about that, thought, probably because she was more eager to do something, anything actually, rather than trying to not get ill or something.

Aaron raises his eyebrows as he overhears the story of the trapped family. He comes closer to the mayor and the wisdom, "I will be glad to assist these Aldwins."

Things change, particularly when one gets back to their home lands. "Everything's fine, Shallenne," Claire lies, still a bit down on the look she received from the Mayor. "You might want to go introduce yourself, so they know they have someone important from Tar Valon here." She completely discounts Gerrick as being importantly, likely having the Lord flash his fancy gear all over the place not having impressed her at all.

Ezekial goes north into the sunken fields

Ezekial comes in from the sunken fields

Ezekial starts to head into the river but can't get across the flooded waters with the ferry having sunk

Ezekial avoids the branches to enter the forest

Ezekial comes out of the forest

Naileve suddenly stops, hearing of the potential need of work. "A trapped family?" she asks, quickly walking toward the group of people where the notice came from, worsening the situation of her trousers, "My... They SURE need somebody to help 'em! Can I do anything to provide some sort of aid?".

Ezekial sighs melodramatically at Bartok's addressing of the Wisdom and mutters under his breath, "Sometimes I wonder if I /am/ the mayor here..." Shaking his head he calls over a villager, "Rayen, see if you can find some willing bodies among the volunteers that can take the place of the Dourien's and the others who have lost livestock in the woods. They'll probably be the best to get their own animals back but I'm sure any help they get will be welcomed." Hearing an offer of help from Naileve and Aaron the Mayor turns towards them and nods with a relieved look upon his face. "Yes, we can use any help offered. There is a family trapped on their roof with some babies and children who can not swim. I have not been able to survey it myself but I hear a boat might be needed to reach them."

Aaron nods, "Than we need a boat." He looks over at Nyileve, "Can you swim? As you can see, I do not have the attire for it."

Reese also hears the sad tale and says, "I grew up in a boat, just about, I'm more than happy to go, sir." His voice is quiet, but steady.

Shallenne chuckles softly as she shakes her head. "I'm no more important than any other who's come to lend a hand here," Shallenne responds to Claire, reaching out to touch her arm in a reassuring gesture. "They're just worried," she murmers softly as she leans a little closer. Straightening up, she heads to the mayor and wisdom, smiling at the eagerness of the ones who have come to help. "Perhaps we ought to survey the situation first?" she suggests. "See whether there is any alternative to a boat.."

"Hmmmmmmmm...". Naileve ponders the question a little... An answer quickly forms in her mind, "I think I might help... I am a carpenteer and probably could manage to cut down some wood and shape it into beams... But I'm not a shipwright, so I cannot actually build one...". She turns to Aaron and Reese, noticing them just now, "Yea, I can swim... I've spend alot of time swimming... If we can't get a boat I could swim there and carry at least the children back here..."; she said it like she actually wanted to do it.

Marisa shurgs "most likely the trip, I am sure it was difficult." she says in response to Bartok. Once the Mayor is done speaking she comments "yes we do need all that done. We also have some soup in the Inn for those in need of something after this trip. Please bring your cups and the cook will serve you some of the megar stock." Marisa stops and looks to the woman that has just come up "Yes the mayor had done most of the surveying." she then turns and looks at the man in the fancy cloths and back to Shallenne "We do appreciate all that Tar Valon is doing for us."

Aaron nods again, "I am quite strong at hand, so I could help either build a boat or help to carry the children." He shrugs, "Don't expect me to swim."

Gerrick finally rides his horse forward through the people closer to the mayor and the others. His own guards are behind him among the rest. "My men are readied to aid where needed," he states in that deep Cairhienin accent, uncaring if he interrupted any conversation.

Naileve looks at Aaron, pondering, "Well... If you know how to build a sturdy enough boat, you could actually help... I can provide all the wood that's needed, but as I said I don't know how to build a decent boat...". She turns to the mayor and the other important persons, "What do you think of it?".

Just as news of the Aldwins reaches the others, Cristov finally comes back out of the inn. His eyes brighten a bit, a light amused smirk entering them. "Old dottering fool. Probably wanted to save his 'inventions." Finishing off a bowl of soup, he hands it off to one of the villagers going back inside, "I can help with that as well. I'm just as strong a swimmer as anyone here."

Aaron ponders, "I don't think we need a boat. We need a raft. Simply tie a few big logs together and that should be enough to carry me and the kids. We can come back for the parents." Aaron looks at Naileve and Cristov, "You two can swim along if needed and help." He nods towards the men behind Gerrick, "They can help put the thing together."

Being involved in some important matters enough not to notice someone in fine clothes on a horse arriving, Ezekial keeps himself busied with Aaron, Naileve and the others who seem intent on helping the Aldwins. "A boat would be fine, but I think we may have to go with a raft. It is quicker to build, though none here have much knowledge of building them or the time to take away from the other concerns at the moment. It has been a horrible situation this whole day trying to decide whether to save them or others."

"So long as it floats with people in, then it needn't be anything fancy," Shallenne remarks, adding wryly, "Though I'm afraid I know nothing useful that will help in that task." She smiles to the Naileve and Aaron, before turning her head back to the rest of the helpers, who are securing the wagons, or gradually filing off to receive that soup that's offered,

Aaron nods, "I have made a few rafts back in my Illian days. We need about five big logs and lots of rope."

Marisa concurs with Ezikel on this point "The rain is threatening again." she turns to the man on the horse and in the fancy *clean* clothing "We appreciate the help maybe you can help serve soup to those in need so they have the strength to do what is required." her comment directed to Gerrick figuring the fancy man needs to do something more then sit on that horse.

Ezekial nods, "We should have some rope somewhere that will work." The mayor stops a passing youngster to run down and find the rope. "As for the logs, they may be harder to come by."

Naileve nods, "Ok... So it goes for a raft... I'll just go cut some wood and get back... But I'll need some help to carry it, I can bring only one log at a time, and that's not much, you know...". She glances hungrily at the Inn, then tries to dismiss her, "Ok... When ready just tell me...", she takes her axe in hand, wiping the mud away from the almost massive blades with her sleeves, "And I'll get everything needed. But NOW... I'm hungry, so I'll be off to eat something". She walks quickly away, directing herself into the inn.

"I have brought a maid for the purpose of serving," Gerrick responds with a brightening grin in response to Marisa's request. "She is bringing in the carriage with food supplies. I am certain her son will be willing to help as well. There are also ten men to help chop lumber down in creating of the raft if so needed." Its clear that Gerric doesn't plan on doing any of that work himself, he's paid for help, after-all.

Aaron nods, "Whatever. Get those guys choping wood."

Aaron goes north into the sunken fields

Marisa rolls her eyes at the fancy man "well at least come down off that horse and join the rest of us your making the people nervous." she turns to the women and tells there where to store the supplies safely "Ezekial we need some raised flooring made also to put the supplies on, hopefully it will keep them dry." she then decides to join the group there to aid the Aldwins.

Claire goes north into the sunken fields

Ezekial goes north into the sunken fields

Marisa goes north into the sunken fields

You go north to the sunken fields

Lorndale Fields: Lorndale Village

These were once the fields that the villagers of Lorndale worked for their daily bread. Currently however they have been swamped by the overflowing Erinin that lies just to the west. The crops are ruined, the fields overflown with so much water that not even rice would grow here. At the far end of the field a small one story house lies, although currently only the roof can be seen. Beyond even that the top of a long hedge grew which showed the boundary of the farmlands.

Marisa, Ezekial, Claire, Aaron

Shallenne enters from the village

Aaron watches the house over the field, 'How deep does it get?"

Gerrick enters from the village

Cristov follows behind the others, watching as they speak about what to do with the river. "They should have never taken small babies over there. Its plain to see that they ain't got much left of the house." He snorts, walking to the water's edge, or what rather where the water starts to noticeably deepen.

Ezekial comments, "Well, that wooden thing they are all on is the rooftop of their house, and that was one story tall. The fields beneath might be a mud sink by now though, so you'd have to be careful of touching down there. I don't think it gets much deeper than their house, but you can't truly tell."

Aaron nods ruefully, "Yeah, swiming is dangerous, too far." He looks over his shoulder, "Do we have that rope? And how are the logs coming along?"

"The rope should be here soon, as for the logs..." The mayor reluctantly looks towards the one in fancy clothes with a raised eyebrow.

Having not had time, with tending matters in town, Marisa shakes her head "How long have they been there Ezekial?" she looks around to the others coming "Quickly we must get them off of there before more rains come." she steps near the waters edge and scans the horrizon for anyone or anything else there.

Following along with the group who head to rescue the stranded family, Shallenne contines to eye the water with some trepidation as she tries to judge the distance to the house. "The only thing that matters now, is getting them back safely," she says gently to Cristov. "We need to work quickly to make that raft, before the rains come."

Gerrick follows the rest short of a few men that stayed back to help out. He once again distances himself from the main group, carefully maneuvering the horse through the muddy terrain.

Aaron shurgs and keeps watching the house, "We need those logs and that rope. I can do the rest with my hands and sword."

Cristov gives Shallenne a quiet look, then nods his head. "That we do, Mistress Shallenne. Though, I still think some of us can swim. Its not that far away. Maybe... maybe if I can get a head start, I can help keep the children calm? Let them know that help is coming?"

"I wouldn't have thought that wise," Shallenne remarks to Cristov, eyeing that water thoughtfully. "You might be a strong swimmer, but who's to know what obstacles might be lurking beneath that water to trap you. And then there's the current. I think we could better use your strength in preparation of the raft," she suggests, recalling well just how keen he can be. A little too keen perhaps.

Claire grunts lightly, "I could get over there and back without any trouble at all. I know the houses and buildings that were out here." He boasts, getting a little stubborn on the topic now. He eyes the water more thoughtfuly than before, as though making note of everything there. Instead of heeding Shallenne's words, he does just what he wanted anyway, and dives into the deeper end of the waters from which he stands. He then starts to swim across to where the roof of the house stands.

Cristov grunts lightly, "I could get over there and back without any trouble at all. I know the houses and buildings that were out here." He boasts, getting a little stubborn on the topic now. He eyes the water more thoughtfuly than before, as though making note of everything there. Instead of heeding Shallenne's words, he does just what he wanted anyway, and dives into the deeper end of the waters from which he stands. He then starts to swim across to where the roof of the house stands.

Ezekial nods, glad there is another sane mind here. "I agree with the Tar Valoner. That is no placid lake out there but flood waters. There could be undercurrents all over not to mention there might be up rooted trees out there or Light knows what." He hasn't heard Marisa's question about how long they've been out there. Maybe she'll be nice enough to repeat it.

Aaron waits, "Or he could do that."

Ezekial cuts off at the end and growls. "Cristov! Don't be a fool." Too late for that. "Be careful at the least, it is a dangerous swim." Sighing he shakes his head, hoping the kid makes it there at least so he can be rescued with the others. The mayor knows he won't turn back.

Gerrick looks rather unconcerned about the swimmer going toward those that need help. The guards he brought with him begin to scatter, in search of wood to create this raft that was suggested. Gerrick himself simply sits upon his horse, looking upon the mud on his pants with some distaste.

As he boasted, Cristov proves to be a strong swimmer, each stroke taking him farther out, and close to the house. He pauses in his swim to tread water a moment, gauging how far he has until he gets there. Dunking himself under the water a brief moment or two, he resurfaces with his long, wavy hair pushed back upon his head and out of his eyes.

Marisa moves over to the others that are working "come lets hurry this rescue I fear those on the roof will not last much longer." she turns "Cristov no, the water is much to cold and to strong as the woman just told you." her voice stern and turning into a yell "Cristov come back, no." Turning to the others then to the man on the horse "Come fancy man we could use you and your horse to go after Cristov." Her voice firm and strong over the waters noise. She then turns back "Ezekial do something we cannot afford to loose anyone." Like Ezekial can really do anything more than she is doing.

Aaron eyes Marisa from the side, "Yeah, you are helping." Sarcasm is slight, but heard.

Watching Cristov Shallenne frowns, clearly concerned for the man's safety. She glances about as if to find some way that might help him, and in doing so catches sight of Gerrick. Still on the horse? Though she'd rather see him actually put himself to some work, that doesn't bother Shallenne so much as seeing him still sat on the horse's back when he arrives. She turns to make her way over to him. "If you give your horse to one of the lads, they can take it and see that its fed and watered," she suggests. "The horses have done their work for today. And we could use your help down here.. unless you need to go and rest a while first?" she remarks to Gerrick, a dark eyebrow lifting slightly, pleasant smile on her lips. "Are you able to swim?"

Naileve enters from the village

Ezekial glances to the wild wisdom and says, "Everything that can be done is being done, Marisa. There's nothing that can save the bow right now but himself. Let us hope he didn't get in over his head. Or if he did that there's someone here who can save him too."

Naileve quickly came back from the inn, after having eaten enough and refreshing herself. However, upon coming closer to the scene, her pace definately becomes angry than just rather quick. "You started without me!" she says, a bit upset, when she reaches the others.

Marisa nods "let us hope you are right this time." she adds "he is a brave lad."

Aaron waves Naileve's anger away, "Started what? Go help cut the wood down."

Gerrick turns to Shallenne with some surprise, scratching the back of his head as he attempts to comprehend her words. It does eventually sink in, and he responds with a slight chuckle. "My dear, the horse is fine. And I have brought a total of eleven men and a servant for the purpose of aiding those that need help. I have not been bread to actual hardship work, I'm afraid, but I have brought help that will be far more suited to helping out the others. If my arrangement does not satisfy the rescue efforts, I could return with my group. But I would much rather offer any assistance that I can." Which in this case, means the assistance he was able to purchase. "No, I can not swim. Nor chop wood. Nor serve meals."

Strong-willed, and muddle-headed, Cristov finishes his rest, and starts to move off again. He gets about two thirds of the way there, his strokes still strong an even. Once more, he starts to tread water, pausing enough to turn around and wave to those on the bank calling out after him.

In normal cases, Naileve would have already smacked Aaron in the face, but given the situation, she had other to think about than that. "Ok, wh--- HEY!", the sight of the lad swimming in the water draws her attention, "What the heck is he trying to do? Can't he u--- Oh well...". She sighs and shakes her head... She was getting nervous, VERY nervous, and that was bad. Without saying anything, she quickly grasped her axe in both hands and went over helping those building the raft.

Aaron looks relaxed and patiently watches the boy swim, "He will make it."

"The assistance of those you have brought is most appreciated," Shallenne replies to Gerrick, inclining her head slightly in recogniton of that. "I am sorry that you have no skill with which you feel confident enough to help. But.. if you don't get the mud cleaned off your horse's legs, it'll develop mudrash," she comments, turning her attention back to the water then, eyes picking out Cristov as she edges back towards the others. Though she remains silent, every inch of her is willing him to reach that rooftop safely.

Ezekial waits patiently, it is all he can do at the moment. He varies between watching Cristov on his mad swim and those that are bringing logs and rope in at varying intervals.

Reese enters from the village

"Stupid boy...", Naileve muttered while giving a hand with the raft, "That idiot... What good would it do? Hell, I wonder why boys ALWAYS need to put themselves in the center of all attention... What in heck do they gain over it? If he just waited for us to build a raft, we would have got back the WHOLE family at once...". She shook her head, trying to drive away her thought, "PAH! What did you expect from a boy? To be reasonable peraphs? They're just good at flexing in front of others". Her anger did something good thought, she was able to cut wood far faster than the normal, for the hacks were definely filled with probably inhuman strength.

Aaron sees the wood and the rope being brought in. He looks around, "I need a small hatchet or an axe. I am afraid my sword will be damaged far too fast for this job."

Again, Cristov dips beneath the water, to clear his matted hair away from his eyes. As he does so, he lifts his hands above his head, until they, too, sink below the surface. Some moments pass. And pass. And pass. He does not resurface, as might have been expected.

Gerrick is the spoiled Cairhienin Lord. To even have him among this battered land is a stretch of his perceived duty. And thus, he simply shrugs a shoulder in response to Shallene. "Horses can be replaced. I have no particular bond to the animal." Its just a tool for his use, after-all. But he eases the horse away, the animal having increased difficulty tracking through the mud.

Marisa watches the boy intently and then yells out "Someone help him, Cristov has gone under, hurry." she blurts out "Who is a strong swimmer here? Tie a rope around them and the other end to the horse of that fancy man then go get Cristov quickley, quickly" she is near out of breath trying to figure a way to help Cris.

Reese looks to the water after Cristov. He glances back to the rest of the group and then back to the water once more. He seems to be debating what to do... until Marisa speaks. He silently takes the rope and heads into the water.

Enough of that. Naileve's patience reached the limits. She angrily threw the axe on the ground, stucking half of its blade in the mud. Then she quickly rushed from where the shout came from, spraying mud around as she braked.

Fortunately, Shallenne is far too concerned about Cristov at the present moment, or she'd surely have something to say to Gerrick about his opinion of his steed. Still, concern for the lad outweighs that for the horse at the moment, as she glances hastily about. She nods in agreement with Marisa, having been about to suggest the same thing about rope herself.

Aaron shurgs and picks Naileve's axe, "Can I use this while you rush off to be a hero?"

Ezekial shakes his head sadly. 'So another is lost to the waters' he mutters softly. "I doubt we have a rope long enough, and it would most likely get entangled in whatever Cristov was entangled in. I could not ask someone to risk their life in such a way..."

Marisa shakes her head "no the horse can handle the water better than any human and can be an anchor. We cannot give up Ezekial we must try and reach Cristov."

Naileve simply ignored Ezekial's statement, it was not of her kind to accept such. She literally stripped a rope away from the nearest one holding one and quickly dived into the water. Her efforts in swimming were increased both from her gone patience and from the hope of still pulling that boy away. Ok, she was angry and all, but hey... She's not evil.

Aaron does not wait for Naileve to reply and starts quickly hacking at the wood. Making groves in one of the shorter logs, he makes five longer ones fit in perpendicullarly, ties them together with rope. Soon, it begins to look like a raft, even if not complete. "Give me a bit of time, it will be done." Aaron moves with the skill and memory of someone who spent a few years in Illian.

Marisa sees the woman dive in and rushes over to the ropes end, she runs it to the woman from Tar Valon and the fancy man "quickly tie this to that horse and give the woman in the water some help" her voice commanding and very stern for one so ancient.

As Marisa reaches up with the rope mud drips all around.

Gerrick proves to be relatively unconcerned with the person drowning in the water, there's little he could do about it. His men do begin to chop the wood for the formation of a raft, however, and Gerrick uses his time to direct them appropriately.

Reese watches as Naileve takes off with a rope. He shrugs and ties his around his shoulders and swims after her, leaving his rope trailing behind on land. He swims well, catching up to Naileve quickly enough.

Seeing Naileve dive into the water, Shallenne quickly darts to make a grab for the rope, Marisa beating her too it. "Quick, fetch another rope and then we can tie it to this one!" she cries out, not able to swim, but able to at least tie a secure knot. "Its not going to be long enough to reach otherwise.."

Ezekial joins in with the others efforts to get more rope to help the foolish lady who is trying to help the foolish lad.

Aaron quickly finishes the raft. It is not as big or secure as he would like it to be, barely big enough to hold three people, four is some are kids. He grunts as he ties the nots tightly, and pushes the raft into the water. "I am going. Any sugestions?"

Seeing that Reese has caught up with her, Naileve simply assumes that she has been swimming slowly, therefore she increased her speed, this time actually putting all the effort she could, this time. She was a good swimmer too and probably much stronger than anyone of her age, all she had to do is reach Cristov's drowning point and dive down.

Marisa nods to Shallenne and runs to get more rope, returning with it dragging behind her "I hope this will be enough." she mutters. She does not even hear Aaron as her concern is for the swimmers now, knowing the waters can easily claim them.

The water starts to gurgle, and bubbles form on the surface at the spot where Cristov was last seen. Air bubbles? Or something from below about to resurface? Light only knows which it is. The ripples from this bubbles subside, and all goes still except for the ripples caused by the two swimmers coming out to try and find the young man who disappeared.

Reese maintains his speed, not wanting to tire himself before he has to return to shore, possibly pulling an unconscious young man. He reaches the spot where he last saw Cristov and dives down, regardless of where Naileve is.

Aaron sighs and shrugs. He grabs a long pole which he got ready earlier and pushes off. "Alright, alright, ignore the man on the raft." He pushes off, balancing carefully, feet wide over the raft. He is not gracefull or overly skilled, but he does it like he already done this before. He soon reaches the spot where the two boys went down, and carefully balances the raft in place, about three feet aways from the diving spot.

Seeing Reese dive into the water too, Shallenne sighs, little she can do other than to secure the ropes. She works quickly to knot the two ropes together, carrying the end over to Gerrick's horse. "If you could turn your horse around?" she remarks to Gerrick, ready to secure the rope as best she can about the horse. And then she sees the raft about to set sail. "Not without a rope!" she cries out.

Naileve surfaced, taking breath. After quite little time, she dived down again.

Reese surfaces as well, diving down immediately. This time, he's down much longer than he was before.

Aaron balances carefully, waiting for the two or three to surface. Or none. He turns to the shore and shouts, "If I go down, don't even think of coming after me." Aaron shrugs his shoulders to show his armor, "There will be very little you could do."

Ezekial mutters, "Least someone around here realizes that..."

Naileve would have wanted to force Aaron to remove his armor... But she didn't even hear that. She was down in the water, and despite moments have been passing, she didn't resurface yet...

Reese resurfaces and treads water for a moment, looking down into the water as though he might see something in that black death down there. He regains his breath and waits a little longer.

If things were starting to get worrying, now they're no longer. Naileve resurfaces again... But it looked like she has been staying down for longer than she expected...

As the wind picks up, Aaron is starting to have trouble keeping up his position. He nods to Naileve, "Did you see him?" The wind looks to be getting stronger, and the family was still on the roof.

Reese looks over at Naileve, well, as much as he has in the past, and says quietly, "I don't think we're going to find him if we haven't already.... one more dive, but then we have to call it off...." He does not seem pleased about that at all. He waits for Naileve's response.

As if only to make matters worse, the house nearby the raft and the people attempting to find the lost boy, starts to grumble and groan beneath the water's surface. A loud cry of a babe screeches loudly, frightened.

Naileve didn't want to call off... No matter what, she had to find Cristov. She simply nodded in response, taking a bit of breath again and then waiting for Reese to dive toegether.

Reese says, "Alright, let's go." With that, he heads down again.

Aaron looks over, "Arlight, you guys are tied right? I am getting the family out of there. If I can, I will pick you up on the way.

Naileve gestures for Aaron to go and pick the family, then goes down with Reese.

The winds begin to increase and the sky darkens with a grave foreboding. Suddenly a flash of lightening streaks across the sky followed quickly by the loud rumble of thunder. Rain begins to pour down, with no warning, like buckets of water being poured over the terrain.

Ezekial curses in a manner most un-mayorlike as the rain comes down. "Just what we don't need." He looks out across the waters, wishing he could do more to help with the rescue efforts.

Gerrick continues to prance back and forth on his horse, working the animal further with little need to do so. He half-watches the action on the river, though not caring as much as he should. That's when the land surface gives way under the weight of the horse. A better rider would be able to stay on top of the animal, though Gerrick clearly isn't of the most skilled riders. The animal jerks, and Gerrick panics. With one foot giving way, the other twists in the stirrup. Gerrick promptly falls shoulder foot into the mud with his foot still stuck on the stirrups.

Aaron is hit hard by the wind, and almost falls off the raft. However, he is able to keep his balance and heads for the house. As he reaches the house, he skillfully leaps onto the roof, trying to make out his barings through the rain.

Marisa also curses the rains as she watches those in the water. She is drenched when she hears the comotion of the horse and turns. A small grin can be seen on her face as she sees the fancy man in the mud. As a good Wisdom she rushes over to offer her help "Are you alright?" she asks half heartedly the man with no manners.

Grabbing hold of the horse's reins, Shallenne speaks soothingly to the beast, helping to calm it in light of the treacherous footing and approaching storm. It still might be needed to pull the swimmers back. She glances to Gerrick, but offers no assistance. She assumes he has someone paid to do that sort of thing, and there are more important concerns after all.

Bubbles announce his resurfacing as Reese appears, a shout escaping. He seems to pull something and a hand - not his - appears beside him. He looks around for Naileve.

Upon the roof the Aldwins' rejoice. "Oh thank you sir. Some of us can swim back, but we couldn't leave the babies here." On the rooftop there is two parents, a grandfather, three children too small to make the swim, and two older children who could do it if they could hold onto the raft every now and then. Most likely to go on the raft would be the mother with the children and Aaron, who couldn't possibly swim in his armor, and the rest could swim with help from the raft.

Mary enters from the village

Naileve takes a bit more time resurfacing... But nothing worrying again. She comes out the surface, carrying a body with the familiar shape of Cristov with her. Holding him up for one arm while Reese holds the other, she looks at him, "Ok... Let's bring him back to the shore...". Her left sleeve and half of her right one have been ripped off, somehow.

Ezekial looks to Gerrick as if he might help when Reese shouts out and his attention is taken from the fallen Cairhien. Hope he has someone paid to help him out of the mud.

Reese nods and says, "Let me pull him, if you please, it is easier if just one of us does it."

Seeing the swimmers resurface with Cristov, Shallenne begins to urge the horse forwards. Slowly, so as not to cause it to slip, or the rope to snag and break. That should give the swimmers some assistance.

The body of Cristov lays lifeless within the arms of his rescuers. Not a breath can be seen rising from his chest. His eyes are wide open with fright, and his lips parted slightly.

Aaron nods, "Alright." He carefully jumps back onto the raft, again almost falling. He regains his balance and turns to the family. "Alright, pass me one of the little kids." He grabs one over his left arm and offers his right for the mother with the other child.

Naileve answers, "Well, I think it's the same... But when you're tired just tell me-". The rope tied to her, however, doesn't seem to bring her anywhere... She just goes and swim on her own, but keeping at Reese' side.

Ezekial rushes into the shallow water, waiting for the two to bring his fallen villager back to him.

As Shallenne moves the horse Marissa turns, forgetting about the fancy man in the mud. She sees the limp body off Cristov and runs to the waters edge. Well people that help get helped first. She waits, concern on her face as the swimmers come into shore.

Reese does not tie Cristov to him, instead tucking one arm under the man's arms and swimming on his side. He does not say anything in reply, saving his strength to swim.

The horse skampers away, with Gerrick still struggling in the mud. "Light!" he calls out in hope of aid, though his men do not come immidiately to save their fallen Lord. They weren't commanded to do so, after-all, and the hired thugs are still unhappy about their assigned task of actually aiding people. His hands stretch out to attempt to gain a hold on the mud, being face first into it.

The mother nods and hands over one of the children, thankfully for Aaron it's not the screaming one, and carefully steps onto the raft with the warrior's help, still almost loosing her balance. The others look ready to get on the raft too, no matter that it won't fit them all, unless Aaron helps sort things out and makes sure some know they have to swim.

The horse strains, but then rope suddenly stops moving, clearly having become snagged. At least that give Gerrick's men the opportunity to come and relieve him. "Would you care for some assistance?" Shallenne asks, finally seeming to note the fact that the man is still attached to the horse.

Aaron nods and helps the woman. He holds her against his back and shakes his head towards the grandfather and the smaller of the two kids. Get one, I think we should be able to fit. Just stay balanced with me." He waits for the two to board and shouts over the rain to the remaining family, "You can swim along the raft, just don't lean on it. Use is only as a guide."

Naileve suddenly brakes while swimming, but not on purpose. "What the...", she looked back and realized what could have happened... "Oh, no! Not now!" she thought as she quickly tried to undo the knot that held the rope tied around her...

Another bolt of lightenting streaks across the sky and the thunder clap that follows is deafing. The rains intensity increases making it difficult to see very far from oneself.

The grandfather nods and leads the smaller of the boys onto the raft, being very careful not to rock the boat of their salvation. They seem to do alright, and arent' too crowded on the raft, though it would be hard pressed to fit another person. Those remaining slip into the water and girl grabs at the raft only once before being warned by her father about the warrior's directions.

The small creaming Cairhienin men causes the horse to be further disturbed, as it tries trotting forward though having a difficult time with the weight hanging off its side. Ignoring Shallene's offer, he twists his head around for his men. "Help me, you fools!" he manages, while he drops face first into the mud getting a nice taste of it. The available men do, finally, go toward the horse to steady it.

Lightning, rain, water, wind... This really couldn't help the poor Naileve, who just managed to untie the knot and remove the rope... However, the work was all but done, she now had to reach the shore. That wasn't very easy, considering Naileve has been in that water for quite long by now... She however still manages to find enough strength to swim relatively fast. Just hope she doesn't drown halfway, she's not all that light...

Aaron nods and after being satisfied that everyone is around and on the boat, pushes off. The poor visibility makes it really hard to see for his where he is going, the wind and the rain forcing him to constantly shift his balance. Soon, the raft is more than halfway to the shore when he Aaron spots Naileve swiming to his right. He shouts, "Hey, over here. Use the raft as a guide."

Reese looks at Naileve, a frown forming on the young man's brow. "Just tread water if you cannot untie yourself and I will come back for you," he says calmly. He continues to land. When he can touch bottom, he sets the body adrift and begins to head back to Naileve. "Are you alright?" he asks as he swims toward her.

Marisa turns to a young man near her "go into town and bring us blankets from those new supplies. Quickly now these people will need to be warmed." she turns back and watches the adventure unfolding in the water, cringing at the thunders noise.

A lone short figure is standing in a corner, one hand lifted to help shield her eyes from the rain, soaken patchwork cloak wrapped about her body in a futile attempt to protect herself. "Stuff for song...", she murmurs as a wicked smile form on her lips, lingering only a few moment before melting away as she takes a step closer, an easy stride as she heads toward the only person she knows well here, her aunt. "Shallenne!", she calls, trying to attract the woman attention, "It's me Mary... You need help yes?", her dark toned eyes turning to the man struggling under his horse.

Ezekial starts wading out towards the body of Cristov even before Reese lets him go. It takes him a bit but he finally reaches the dead boy and starts dragging him back to shore where anything that can be done will be done to help him, though judging from the look of his skin nothing can be done.

"I'm fine, I'm fine! Don't worry, get back to shore!", Naileve shouted while continuing to swim. It looked like she could actually get back to shore herself.

Seeing that the horse is under control and her offer of help is not taken up, Shallenne makes her way back to where the wisdom remains waiting for Cristov. A frown creases her brow as she watches the scene, death not something she deals easily with, for all of her other Altaran ways.

Marisa rushes to the waters edge and looks at the body Ezekial is bringing in. She shakes her head at the sight of the boys skin and the limpness of his body "I do not think there is much I can do he was a brave lad and we shall erect a monument to his bravery when this town is rebuilt."

Reese stops and treads water, waiting for Naileve to make it to safety. He is more than fine, used to long hours in the water, he just waits calmly.

Ezekial sees to helping Marisa and the others in anticipation of the others returning to shore.

Looking from Cristov to Marisa, Shallenne shakes her head slowly. "Nothing you can do? But you are going to try aren't you?" she asks, more than a touch of despair in her voice.

Aaron nods more to himself than anybody else. He slowly makes his way towards the shore. As wind picks up, the raft is striken hard. Over the pouring rain, Aaron see that the grandfather is about to fall. He leans forward to push him back, and as he does the raft is thrown completely off balance. Realizing that it is his position doing it, he trows the poll to the grandfather and leaps into the water, immideately dissapearing under the waves. The raft stabilizes and the family has no choice but to go on to the shore.

As one man steadies the beast, the other begins to remove Gerrick's foot from the stirrup. The leg falls to the muddy ground with a thud, and as Gerrick scampers to stand. The once beautifully designed noble clothes are now filthy with the mud. A few more curses are urged under his breath, as he stares at the animal in accusation. "Get me another horse!" he orders one of his men. He's oblivious to the others, not that he cared much for this cause to begin with, beyond the hopes of winning some social grace. Which he's failing well enough.

Naileve was used to long hours hiking or mountain climbing, and although she could swim well, she wasn't used to long hours in the water. But she was fit enough to get over that problem. When she was near enough to touch the bottom, however, it became obvious that many things have ben hindering her swim. Her clothing was in TERRIBLE conditions... Her trousers were cut and spoiled, with her right leg totally uncovered and her clogs missing. Her sleeves were badly reduced as well, as described before, with one totally and one just half ripped. The rest of her clothing was full of cuts and straps, with some scratches on her legs, arms and skin, only a few on the torso actually being a bit deeper than the skin.

Marisa is already down at Cristovs side. She checks for breathing and looks into his eyes. Carefully closing the boys eyelids she shakes her head "I'm sorry there is nothing more to be done. He has gone to the Light and suffers no more." she slowly rises as the blankets arrive, soaked but they will be of some help to the swimmers still in the water.

The body of Cristov stares blankly up at the sky. Rain pelts into those unblinking, dull, lifeless brown pools. Where once a cheerful, mischievous smirk appeared, there are now a parted set of blue lips.

Reese waits in waist-deep water for Naileve. "Are you alright," he asks as he notices her loss of a sleeve and the various other cuts.

Obviously her aunt is too much busy to even notice her, so the young altaran girl simply shrugs and follows her elder a few, another smirk coming on her lips at the so-called altaran reaction toward death. "As if there was something I might help with...", Mary muses quietly, frowning at the mud she's just walking in before her eyes lift to peer at the half drowned houses and she starts hmming quietly.

Shallenne bites on her lip as she looks down on Christov. "He was foolhardy, but incredibly brave. He had a good heart," she murmers. Backing away a little, she looks over her shoulder. "Perhaps I should go and inform the others that the rescue has been.. successful," she offers, wanting to find a way out of this. Seeing Mary, she offers her niece a wan little smile, as she turns to leave.

Marisa nods "if you wish m'lady you can tell those at the Inn to prepare for a few more to be coming to warm."

Naileve nods at Reese, not stopping to answer with words. She gets back onto the muddy grounds, her disastrous conditions fully displayed. None of the scratches are bleeding, and probably no more than one or two did, but they sure might hurt, especially the ones on her uncovered leg, which number is overwhelming. Naileve, thought, just doesn't care about that, and looks absently around, "Where did my axe go?".

Not as deft as he could be, the grandfather takes the poll that Aaron tossed to him, and stares at the spot where he jumped off the side of the raft. "Man overboard!" He cries out hoarsely, polling back to the beach as quickly as possible, "Man overboard!" In his own weakened condition, he could not certainly do any more than he is doing now to get his family back to shore.

Reese turns, having not sat down. Without a word, he is back to the water, swimming to where the old man is pointing.

Not seeing her axe, Naileve starts to search for it... Only to notice that an old man was pointing to a spot and shouting 'man overboard!'. "Oh no... Another one!", not even knowing who she was, and probably going to regret it, Naileve starts to rush to aid... However, she waits to be as near as possible to the spot, before diving again. She was probably not going to swim again for the next year after this.

The old man continues to poll, adding a little bit more speed to his work this time. His family is able to keep up, though just barely. "Get some help, get some rope. The fool had armor on!" He waits for his daughter in law to get off the raft, along with the children, before doing so himself. The other family members walk upon the shore line already, having walked up once able to touch the ground. He pases the poll off for the raft to whoever can help.

Reese dives down when he reaches the spot as well, surfacing about two minutes later. With a moment's pause, he dives again.

Gerrick's men provide him with another horse, and one even aids the small Cairhienin up to mount the beast. This one is far larger then the first, and thus Gerrick looks even the more so shorter. He grabs a hankerchief from a side pocket, beginning to wipe his face free of the mud, all the while spitting out the mud that he had tasted.

Aaron waves cover the spot where Aaron went down. The water is quite for a number of seconds. Yet as the thunder rolls, the water part, and the body of Aaron is ejected far and he lands five feet short of shore where the water is shallower. If one looks closely, they can see his legs vibrating from the stress. He slowly straightens and takes a deep breath. A quite "Thank you" can be heard addressed to his sword master. As Aaron slowly makes his way towards the shore swiping the water soaked into the fine cape, he turns and notices the people in the water, "Oh geez."

Naileve sighs in relief and swims back to shore to help the blademaster, althought she would actually need help herself. "Are you alright?", she asks, not wanting to have to deal with drown guys anymore.

Reese blinks in mute shock. With an imaginable shrug, the young man heads back to shore, looking far more tired than he tries to let on. He stands near Naileve, watching the man lying on the ground.

Aaron lifts his hand with effort as all of his armor acts as an insulator to the water which can be heard splashig underneath it, "I would say so. Lucky for me there was a rock in the mud over which I went down. I used the sprint which is used to jump big trees." Aaron shrugs, "Harder in water, but it works." He looks at the dead young man and sighs, "Foolish boy."

One of the villagers sent to get blankets finally arrives. He gives a few to Marisa to distribute as necessary, and uses one to cover over Cristov's now dead features. "Foolish indeed. Pa always said he'd be killed by his actions someday." The young boy speaking sighs, then mutters some prayer for the dead over Cristov's body before returning back the way he came.

Naileve kneels down, trying to help Aaron get back in feet. But for how strong she could be, she wasn't exceptional, and therefore had serious troubles in lifting all that steels. She had to give up soon, she just couldn't do it. Not alone at least.

Aaron smiles at Naileve and straightens with effort, "Thank you." Aaron bows his head momentarily over the boys body and walks quitely towards the village, but stops and looks over his shoulder, "Do you need anything of me?"

Naileve stopped a little to catch her breath again, definely too much extertion for today... "I just want my axe back", she replies, while slowly walking behind him.

Aaron waves towards the pile of wood chips where he made the raft, "Under there. Thank you." He waits for her to retrive it.

Marisa takes the blankets and begins distribute the blankets to those of the family she asks each one how they are doing and quickley asseses them "We must get these people to the Inn to warm, there should be a fire there, if we are lucky." she is dripping from the rainshower and begins to shiver a bit herself.

Several men from the village pick up Cristov's body and place it in a cart. Two of them push the cart, needing more than one person to do so in the mud, toward the main portion of the village grounds. THe others, in agreement with Marisa, also start moving in that direction. Some greet the Aldwin family, offering their reassurance and concerns as they pass by the ones trapped family.

Naileve nods and slowly goes take it back. Half way, her uncovered, scratch-covered leg fails to support her anymore and she falls down.

Marisa passes out the last blanket and then calls out "follow me." she motions to one of the men to help Naileve and any others that need then works her way back to town.

Naileve heads back towards the village

Claire heads back towards the village

You go south towards the village

Lorndale Village: Along the Erinin

This small village during normal times would act as both a safe stop along the Erinin for ships before they would reach Tar Valon as well as a farming and fur hunting community. Due to the floods however, the town is in dire straights, the normally peaceful Erinin is flooding completely over the banks of the river. Water has risen up three spans and seems to be rising every day as the winter snows thaw in the north. This seasons crops are ruined. Only one building remains able to be used, the Lorndale Inn, having been built at the tallest hill in the area, however the rising waters are reaching up to even it's door.

Claire, Naileve

A sunken path East Into the Fields Lorndale Inn Across the Erinin Road SouthEast

Gerrick comes in from the sunken fields

Aaron comes in from the sunken fields

Aaron sighs looking very wet, "I need to dry somewhere."

Marisa comes in from the sunken fields

Naileve climbs into the Lorndale Inn

Marisa leads everyone into the Inn. She looks to the mud covered Gerrick and comment "well you will have to leave that horse outside if you wish to enter." she turns and walks into the Lorndale Inn.

Aaron climbs into the Lorndale Inn

Claire climbs into the Lorndale Inn

Marisa climbs into the Lorndale Inn

You climb up into the inn

Lorndale Inn: Lorndale Village, Along the Erinin

The inside of the inn here normally quiet and serene is during this time of crisis jam-packed full of people trying to find a somewhat dry place to get a moments peace. The floors are covered by an inch of mud at the bar, three inches of it by the doorway out. Tables have been converted into sickbeds for the injured and families forced out of their own homes huddle in whatever spaces they can find.

Marisa, Claire, Aaron, Naileve

Marisa enters the Inn and promptly goes to the kitchen, coming out with a cup of hit cider. She finds a seat and begins to sip at the cider. The tiredness rapidly catches her as she does. Marisa lays her head on one of the wet tables and promptly falls asleep.

Luckily for the man carrying Naileve, they have come into the inn. Being a bit red in the face, she has been quickly defined as 'sick', and placed in one of those things on the table that merely resemble beds. Althought she wanted to protest against that, she decided to not try to extert more for that day

Aaron sighs, standing at the door making a huge puddle as the water leaks off his cape. He notices Naileve and head over to where she is at and seats near. "Rough day, no?

Naileve nods, although a bit weakly, "Yea... I was lucky enough if I wasn't naked when I got back to shore... I've ripped all my clothing in that da..." *SNEEZE* "darn tree... *sniff*". She looks sick, but not that much, something that might get away in one night.

Aaron shakes his head, brushing his wet hair with his hand, "Yeah." He laughs, "Not that too many males there would have minded seeing you naked!" He laughs. "I am glad that family survived."

Naileve laughed as well, she had a rather good sense of humor and didn't take offense from that statement, "Ok... Today I'll get along with the same dress I have now, so it will rip TOTALLY off, happy?". She chuckled a little more, then stopped, sighing, "I'm glad too that family survived... I've been worried when you dived down, you know? With all that metal, I feared you would have never got out...".

Aaron nods ruefully, "I though I was a goner too. When I sank, I took a breath and was hoping to try to walk to shore as my last resort." Aaron laughs, "Yeah, the only problem the mud was higher than my waist. But when I sank I felt a rock right under me. It was solid, and I simply sprinted up." He shrugs at that, "I was taught that for jumping trees when in forest battle."

Naileve took a deep breath, she wasn't much weakened from that fever, but it was enough to cool her normally boiling nerves. "You are a kind of blademaster, aren't you?", she managed a weak smile, "I like weapon handling... It cools your nerves like you couldn't tell... Althought I was never let to do such a thing", she sighed, "Men in borderlands just refuse to let a woman even take a weapon in hand".

Aaron shrugs, "Yup, I am a -kind- of blademaster. Although I am not sure that there are differences in the proffesion." He shrugs, "I am sure you can handle that axe flawlessly. You don't need anything else."

Naileve nods, "Yea, I know... But I wouldn't mind to learn handling one of those huge swords... You know, the six feet tall ones...". She then stops, as if suddenly realizing something, "Bah... You probably don't care about that... Let's just talk about so..." she yawns loudly, "Something else...". She definely looks tired... She looks cute when she's calm.

Aaron laughs, "Six feet long ones? Those are only for horse-back riding battles over a long distance. There is very little use for those ... well, anywhere." He smiles Naileve, "You need some rest." Aaron looks down upon the puddle which he is making, "And I need to dry myself off." Water can be heard splashing inside his armor, "I am getting cold. Good night, rest up, and I will see you tommorow hopefully. There are plenty of things to do yet." Aaron gets up and walks away to find a sleeping place somewhere after he dried himself.