[IRP] The First of Many

[WyvernSlayer]

Satsume was in the middle of a hit from his pipe when he heard footsteps behind him. He assumed it was Orica, out to join him at the gate, so he didn’t bother turning around. But then she spoke:

“I did say that ambushes are tactical, not cowardice. In fact, it is more cowardly to make such a false counter-comment to someone, and then flee before they can explain their position.”

Satsume stopped and gave her a hard look. He opened his mouth and prepared his response, but his words were interrupted by a whirling, whistling noise. Suddenly, the sound of a large impact followed, and it was soon accompanied by the sounds of screaming and shouting from all sides.

“Son of a BITCH!” Satsume exclaimed, hastily emptying his pipe of embers and instinctively reaching over his shoulder for his throwing spear. The schoolhouse now had a crude skylight, and smoke was pouring out of all open windows. So were people, desperate to escape the noxious fumes.

“I will, however, give you a reprieve from an attempt to defend that cowardice due to the urgent reason we are advancing, but do know that I want an explanation,” Orica said, keeping up with Satsume as the two of them picked up the pace towards the gate.

“Look, can we talk about this later?” Satsume shot back. They stopped just in front of the cobbled gate. Satsume peered ahead and saw what looked to be a similar lot to the group of swindlers that had caused a commotion in the town center a while earlier. They were rushing towards the town, shouting and baring their weapons for battle.

Orica’s voice raised as she spoke, but still retained her calm and staunch demeanor. “I endeavor to give someone the optimal ability to defend themselves against an assault. If they fail then it means they are truly not strong enough to have-”

“Listen,” Satsume interrupted her, “If you want to give ME the optimal ability to defend myself, you’ll stop giving me a hard time and help crush these cretins.” He brandished his throwing spear and settled into a fighting stance. “Now get ready! Here they come!”