2018.06.07: Cliaths on Patrol

Cliaths on Patrol
An group of new Cliaths are summoned to go on a mission
IC Date	June 7th, 2018
IC Time	Afternoon/Evening
Players	HalleST, Derek, Gavan, Hjalmar, Johanna, Naiche, Rory, Tormod
Location	Somewhere out in the woods
Spheres	Gaian Garou

Word went out, via howl, text message, or carrier pigeon as needed. Something going down in the forest and Garou are needed for dealing with it. Cliaths in particular are contacted and told if they can, to meet up at the Caern.

When they arrive, they find Halle talking with Iron Flail, the Warder. He nods to her and says, "Alright, sounds like it is far enough away from the Caern to not be a direct threat. If the Wyrmfoe is on board with it, I'm good too." The NPC Warder walks off then, as Halle turns to see the Garou coming in.

"Hello everyone, thank you for responding," Halle says. "I spotted a place that chemicals are being dumped into a stream in the forest. The Wyrm taint there is accumulating. Defiant Storm-rhya, our Wyrmfoe, has given the green to put together a pack of Cliaths to deal with it," she says. Halle glances about at everyone and says, "Does everyone know each other? Shall we do a quick round of introductions, as I know some of you are new to the Sept."

Not far from Halle, Tormod could be found, The large Nordic looking man running one edge of a curved athame along a wet stone, A clay bowl resting in his lap as he works the blade along the stone to sharpen the etched length of metal. When he hears the words from Halle his eyes lift and he dips his head to the woman before looking over the others gathered. The Strider Shaman having shown up to assist the group in his own way.

A sleek gray wolf oft seen wandering through the bawn has managed to appear and come to sit. The words of Halle are absorbed with alert ears turned forward but when she finishes speaking, they radar about and his muzzle follows. Bright blue eyes take in the rest of those gathered before he growls out a greeting, >>I am Starlight Eyes, born of four legs under no moon, I am Cliath to the Silver Fang.<<

Naiche seems to have stumbled in on the wrong meeting. He was here for bone thieves anonymous? This.. was not what he expected. A distant, curious figure at first, Naiche eventually approaches, maintaining his lupus form as he moves quietly towards the group, his chin lifting, licking at his chops as his eyes nervously shift between unfamiliar faces and scents even as he remains nearby, clearly uncertain of what is going on, <<Bone-Thief. Or.. Trail-Stalker.>> The last bit is offered in a trailing tone as he stares quietly at the other obvious wolf there, studying, staring curiously, though never making direct eye contact, his gaze shiftless and curious.

Johanna has been here training, as per orders. She heeds the call for Cliaths, and heads over back in Homid for now. When asked to introduce herself, she chimes in, "I am Johanna Isla Johnson, rite named Starchaser, born on two legs beneath the Half Moon, Cliath of the Stargazers." She looks to the others, noting each one with her blue/green eyes.

Hjalmar, a tall, blue eyed, muscular man looks around at the others gathered in response to the word. He smiles and is dressed in his traditional fighting armor and wearing his axe and shield, a big knife can also be seen on his belt. "I Shield Brother, born on two legs under the half moon of the Philodox. Cliath of the Fianna, have come to answer the summons." The smile has disappeared when being told the matter.. He shakes his head in disgust and sighs deeply. "A sad day for nature and the planet it seems... We shall bring judgment to the culprits."

Tormod slips the whetstone away with his left hand, the hand coming back to take up the bowl as he raises from his seated position to avoid dropping it. The man with the bowl and knife in hand dips his head as he offers up finally, "Tormod Larsen, Rited Ra's eye. Cliath Theurge of the Striders.."

Halle will says, near the end of the introductions, "I think I've met all of you, but may not have covered everything about myself. I'm Halle Kim, and kin to the Children of Gaia. But more than that, I'm a kami. I'm a sparrow that was awakened by Gaia. I've served Her, and Helios, for several centuries now, and they have given me a connection to the Garou. I'm very capable as a fighter, on part with an Elder. However this will be your mission. I'll fill you in on the situation, and I'll be nearby. But once you've heard the details, it is up to all of you to carry it forward as you decide best."

Given Naiche's skittish nature, it does not take a genius to see that the Lupus remains utterly silent as he listens, and beyond his introduction, silent then as well, just sitting quietly at this point, head lowered ever so slightly , shoulders slumped and trying to be as attentive as possible without, and this is key here, ever having to look directly at anyone, the dangerous folk instead just being ignored, at times and furtively glanced at others. But he is listening, his ears twitching betraying that behavior

Halle says, "Alright, if everyone has been introduced, here's the situation. There is a fire road, a small two-lane dirt path through the forest for vehicles. About a mile from the nearest paved road, a smaller, less-used road splits off. About 1000 feet down this, it reaches a stream. There are chemicals that have been dumped into the stream. Judging from the effects on the plant life, this has been going on for some time, probably weeks, and regularly. There are multiple tire tracks of different size, suggesting multiple vehicles." Halle pauses so all of that can register. "The area is tainted already. Banes have moved in, in the Umbra. I have a number of Fire Elementals and Nature spirits that will deal with the Banes. Barring something going wrong, this pack need only deal with matters on this side of the Gauntlet. We need to find who is doing it, stop them for good, and cleanse the area," Halle says. "Any questions for me? If not... I'll step back and let you take over." Halle adds, "I will be nearby, but not taking part except in Emergency. I'll be focused on watching the Umbral side of things. Should there be a threat to you from that side, I'll let you know."

Johanna nods to Halle, "It will be an honor to serve." She looks to the others, to see if they are ready to get discuss their plans.

After Halle gives the rundown of the situation Tormod nods before finally speaking up again, "For those who wish, I can bring the group together as if a pack.. The only difference will be the totem, this method..does not bring one. But will allow..for the group to better work together.." The Theurge offering up before he falls silent as he sets the bowl down on a nearby stump. Moments later the athame with the carvings in Egyptian and strider glyphs is guided across his palm as he begins to let a small bit of his blood to fall into the bowl before he holds the blade above the bowl for the others if they were willing and wanting.

Hjalmar is slowly nodding... A important matter indeed.. The forest is being poisoned! He looks around to the others, observing them for a moment and then cocks his head at Tormod's offer. He gives a small grin and moves forward accepting the offer. "Together we stand stronger." He too takes the blade and add his blood to the bowl by cutting his palm slightly.

Looking to Halle, Starlight Eyes growls out, <<Are there corporate interests involved? Do we know?>> The wolf's brow knits then he looks to the other wolf. <<We will be the forward scouts. Once we have identified any foes, you will report to back to the group and I will remain to monitor them.>> It would seem the Silver Fang is used to coordinating the masses? He then nods to Tormod. <<If it means we can speak though the mind.. that will be easier.>>

Johanna follow Hjalmar and adds her blood as well with the use of the blade. "Together, we can accomplish much more. That means we can cover more ground without having to run back and forth, and no one has to be alone. This may be more dangerous. Best to take precautions."

Halle has backed up a bit, letting the pack be with each other. She takes a step back forward to answer Starlight Eyes, showing she seems to understand Lupine. "None that your pack is aware of, no. Makes sense chemicals have a source, though." She backs up again then, listening.

The question from Starlight has Tormod's head shaking slightly, "Sadly, it does not go that far. Think of it..as pack lite. No totem and no mental speech. But other benefits to be gained from it.." The man shrugging slightly before he looks down into the bowl and the gathering blood within it. The words from Halle have Tormod nodding slightly as he half murmur half growls out, "If it involves chemicals then there is a source and someone or something behind dumping it here.."

Given the ritual at hand, and not wanting to be left out, Naiche seems to look the blade over, and all the people adding blood, this of course gets a suspicious gaze of course, but there he is, approaching, curiously, sniffing at the ground before muttering <<Spilling blood forms bond? This.. is odd. Unusual behavior. Ritual perhaps? Ra's-Eye?>> He'll inquire, even as he looks at the pooled blood with a curious stare, sniffing before glancing around, and clearly considering the possibility. Upon being volunteered for scouting though, his ears perk, <<Yes! Yes. Will look? Is good at this, watching thing. Seeing things, will see many things, tell if needed.>>

Halle says, "There is a Kin, Heidi Hammer with military and weapons training, who works for a Kin group from the Get called Black Eagle that guard Caerns and such. If the pack wishes she may be available later to help."

The burly figure of Derek MacMillan comes lumbering to the appointed gathering place. The big man dressed in his usual, button-down shirt and jeans. Strapped to his hip is a leather scabbard holding a two-foot long blade in the form of a Roman gladius. "Comrades," he says. "I am Derek MacMillan, known to our Nation as Wyrm's Worst Nightmare. Born to Man beneath the Full Moon, Cliath of the Fianna. I have heard the call to battle, and have come to answer." He draws his blade, lifting it high. The blade itself is bone-white and faintly sheened, as of highly polished. "And -this- is the Fang Dagger Dreamfang! May Gaia grant that it drink deep of the blood of our enemy this day!" Sweeping the blade in an arc, he slides it back into its sheath and sets himself at the ready.

The question from Naiche has Tormod looking to the Lupus, A small smile curling his lips as he nods. "One of the several I know, Yes. It is called the Rite of Pack's Blood.. Allows a group to be packed together temporarily for a goal, The effects lasting until either we are done..or the next time the moon stands as it is now.." The man's eyes lifting briefly to the sky above before he is looking back to Halle giving a quick nod. The man clearly not seeming to mind the help of others even kin. When there is the sudden new arrival Tormod dips his head to the Fiann before he is refocusing on the task at hand offering to the late arrival. "Still time to give blood and join in the rite before we deal with the task at hand.."

Hjalmar looks as Johanna too adds her blood to the bowl and then at Bone-Thief when he comes closer to sniff and inquire about the bowl.. The reaction he gives to being asked to scout has Hjalmar smiling again. He looks to Halle when she adds this and nods. "Sounds fine to me. All help will be appreciated. We need to catch the ones responsible." And then his attention is pulled by yet another Fianna joining in on the hunt. A respectful nod is given to Derek. "Welcome Derek, Wyrm's Worst Nightmare. I am Hjalmar Hamerslag." The European accent is thick on speaking his own name. "I am rited Shield Brother, born on two legs under the half moon of the Philodox. And Cliath of the Fianna."

Once the last bit of blood is added and the last willing Garou adds their own bit of blood into the bowl Tormod begins to chant softly over the bowl as its lifted whispering along the rim in Arabic before he is bringing it to be held in his left hand. The man's right bringing his index and middle fingers down into the mixture after adding a small bit of ash to it mixing the blood and the ash together before he is moving about marking each person with the mingled blood and ash anointing their eyes and their chest above their heart before he is stepping back giving those last offered words to the spirits. That sense of Gaia and the Spirits briefly filling the space between the group as the ritual takes hold and the temporary bond is formed.

Tormod transforms into his Homid form.

Naiche eventually, before everything does nip at his shoulder to draw a bit of blood, lick at it and then let it drip and drool into the bowl, if it is ever brought near him, the beast not at all interested in it seems using a dagger. Hopefully a bit of spit won't ruin the ritual, but once that is done, Naiche, still clinging to his Lupus form, retreats then, nodding to Tormod in response, offering a woflish grin, canines showing as he pants slightly, <<Yes. Yes. Well, will trust, best to do now.>> He'll mutter before he withdraws and looks over towards the rest of the group. Derek's arrival will result in a few curious sniffs, but he'll draw away then. <<Name things... like people? Animals?>>

Rory steps into that growing circle, unarmed and in Homid form. "I am Rory Murphy, rited Roars his Defiance, of Stag's Children and born walking upon two legs under the light of the Crescent Moon. Cliath of the Nation." Jeans and flannel clad, and a big grin for the gathering. More Fianna here than he has expected to see.

Johanna nods to Derek. "Welcome Derek. Glad you can join us." She watches the rite by Tormod as he performs the rite, closing her eyes as he anoints hers. She takes in a deep breath and lets it out slowly."

Derek's bearded features break into a broad grin, and he steps over to throw a hearty bro-hug around Hjalmar's shoulders. "Hail and well met, my Kin," he says. "Today shall be a great day for Stag's children!" Rory is given a similar greeting and a hearty embrace. That done, he produces a perfectly mundane pocketknife to slash his hand and add his blood to Tormod's bowl, pulling open his shirt to bare his chest so he can be anointed. The excitement of the upcoming battle already starting to tense the big man's posture. "Come, comrades! Come! Our Mother has need of her heroes!" he calls as he feels the spiritual bond solidify. He lifts his bleeding fist above his head. "One People! One Nation for Gaia! Let us be about our bloody work!"

Hjalmar grins at the bro-hug given by Derek. "The pleasure is all mine." He lets himself be marked by Tormod and there's a look of anticipation on his fist. He may be Philodox. But that does not mean he does not like battle! He rolls his shoulders and takes in deep breaths of air. It is good to see everyone getting ready to go. "I would suggest going soon? One should not wait too long to act when nature is under attack."

Naiche offers only a vague nod then as he offers aloud, <<Go scout first? Or..?>> There is a moment hesitation then as he inquires looking about, <<Who goes? Could be dangerous. Isolated, Alone. Very dangerous.>> Not that Naiche is openly volunteering, but at this point well, instead he is more looking over the associated folks, sniffing, studying a bit more openly, eyeing Johanna and Derek now in turn, considering them.

Halle stands a few steps back from the circle of Garou, listening quietly.

Johanna offers, "I think we should all head out there, and evaluate the situation as we get closer. See what we can find. If we need to circle the area, and approach from different angles." She looks between them for some agreement.

The large Nordic looking Theurge of the Striders gives a nod of agreement hearing the words from Johanna, the man otherwise largely remaining quiet. His purpose there to assist with the spiritual side of things should such matters arise.

Hjalmar too, nods. "Wise words indeed. Remaining here does not help us further our cause." He gestures towards the previously indicated direction and looks over the assembled team. "Shall we?"

Derek nods his head. "Let us go on four feet. We shall want sharper noses," he says. "And we will be low to the ground as well. Harder to spot. Let the bastards who would poison our Mother have no knowledge that their death is coming!" He turns in a circle, facing each Garou present in turn, opening his arms wide. "Let us go, brothers and sisters! I yearn to sound the call of war at your side!" And so saying, he drops to all fours and shifts, shrinking down to a stocky, red-brindled wolf with ears perked and brushy, fox-like tail a-wag. <<Come come! Let's go!>> he barks in Garou, dancing in place from side to side in his eagerness.

Halle takes a step forward as they speak of heading out to the site. "It is a few dozen miles away, so a good run," she tells them. She glances towards the exit to the underground caverns that the Caern is in. "We can reach it with an hour or two left before the sun goes down," she says, ready to lead them to the spot when they depart.

With a crunch of bones and stretch of muscles, fur flies and wind swirls. Johanna becomes a dire wolf

The area is fairly wooded in this area of the forest. There are occasional more open areas here and there, and every few miles a fire-road cuts through the forest to allow firefighters access in case of forest fires. For the most part it is a wolf's dream as far as hiding places go. A stream runs from northeast to southwest cutting through the area. The road approaches the stream from the north. The Garou are on the north side of the stream off to the left now.

        road
         |
         |   stream
         | //
  G       //
         //

Getting to the sight of the pollution was a journey in of itself, one where Naiche has tripped, and flails about with his long, totally janky ass gait, and as they arrive at the scene, he'll sniff, taste the air and glance about around the others who are there before offering aloud, <<Go look? Who else coming with? Where should go?>>

Halle stays in human form and runs alongside the wolves, not seeming to have much difficulty keeping up with them despite spotting them all 2 extra legs.

The black, grey wolf that is Shield Brother cocks his head to the side and sniffs the air as they approach the area. He turns towards Bone-Thief. <<Your turn to go and see? Though I'd better remain here for now... As I am not one of the most quiet...>>

Tormod much like Halle remains in human form, The Strider able to keep up with the others despite the two legged running. When they near the area and the question is asked by Naiche and he hears the words from Shield the Nordic looking Theurge gives a small nod of agreement. "Need two to go scout, See what it is we are dealing with from different sides. Make sure that we have clear view..clear idea."

Starchaser eyes the scene, analyzing. "I agree. We need eyes on this so we do not walk into trouble."

Derek chuffs through his muzzle as he trots to a halt, tail wagging. <<Yes! A wide angle!>> He goes to nose at Naiche's flank. <<You go that way,>> he says, pointing with his nose in one direction. He flicks his ears, then goes to snuffle at Rory. <<You go that way.>> A pincer formation, each scout being sent to flank the operation on either side, and hopefully provide some useful information for the warriors.

Rory shifts easily enough onto paw and keeps up with the pace and flow of the group as they stretch their legs and gait towards the dumping site. He'll split off with Naiche and bumble almost terribly behind the wolf to shuffle in and investigate the location. A few steps back from the wolf is where this Theurge will creep.

And Naiche is off, running and stumbling along, sneaking, crawling under exposed roots, rolling in the leaves, all mission impossible style, without any of the sound to make his perhaps.. silly actions obvious. After looking around, he returns! and by the time he pops back in, running, tongue flopping in the air as he returns, and instead of stopping or slowing down, he more does a butt slide as he arrives back with the group then before looking over, <<Dangerous! Giant metal beasts! Also polluted!>> Naiche offers rather quickly before glancing back, ears twitching.

As the two others move to begin their scouting mission of the area Tormod settles in, The large man shifting his weight from one foot to the next as his hands lower down to his side. The man's fingers seeming to change in a subtle way as his nails thicken and grow longer to form into claws. The man's hands coming back up to draw the claws against one another in a clear act of sharpening.

Starchaser steps just aside as Naiche returns, so as to miss the sliding one. >>Giant metal beasts? Like with round wheels?<< She wonders if she should take a look too. >>Perhaps a couple more of us should get a look at it as well.<<

Many steps behind Naiche now, slower and not as quiet, Rory arrives. Rory is much more verbose and exacting. Since he has a man's knowledge of things as well. <<Cars came and went several times. Nobody has been around for a few moons>> The gingery wolf chuffs and settles into a sit in the grouping.

<<Cars? Yes.. uh, the things that move fast, hit things, they were there, the area is.. polluted too? Plants, white sticks. Would uh.. avoid this place personally, smells all terrible.>> Naiche adds on as he tilts his head to the side, glancing to look over at Rory then, amending.

Shield Brother would laugh if he could at seeing Naiche and later Rory return but settles for a dip of his head in acknowledgement of their rapport. <<Good scouting.>> He looks at the rest. <<Though none may have been there for many days... We still need to look.. We need to find who did this.>> he cocks his head to a side and looks at the two scouts again. <<But white plants? Dead plants?>>

The mention of the area being tainted and the fact it was cars and not giant metal beasts has Tormod just barely relaxing. At least there weren't metal monsters in this journey through the forest yet.. The large man making his way slowly closer as his chest raises and falls. The Theurge looking over the area slowly as he thinks things over.

The whole pack approaches now, and sees what Naiche and Rory already have. The plants are a bit browned and sickly looking. Obviously signs of something wrong. You can smell chemical smells, though nothing you are familiar with. The strength of the smell suggests it's maybe been a day or two since they were dumped. There are definitely tire tracks, some further apart than others suggesting at least two vehicles of different sizes. They've drove over some of the smaller vegetation, and there are enough tire ruts to suggest they've been there a few times. There is a little bit of an open area near the stream now due to the dying vegetation. No signs of anyone there at present, no human smells. There are a few cigarette butts which seem a day or two old.

The sun is just reaching the horizon, the forest already in shadows. It will be getting dark soon.

Starchaser pads up quietly, sniffing around. >>Ugh...this is disgusting. Someone really fouled up the area. Dumping illegally. Whomever did this needs to be caught and punished. So many violation of man and Gaia here.<<

Halle walks up with the others, watching the area, looking about frequently. Sometimes her eyes seem to be tracking things that aren't there, probably leading one to guess she's watching the Umbra as much as the real world.

Derek snuffles and sneezes, wrinkling his nose with a snarl. <<They will, sister. They'll all pay for what they did here!>> he growls lowly. He pads forward, crouched low to the ground as he makes his way forward. <<Where -are- they?>> he growls softly.

As Tormod nears the affected area a low growl sounds out from the large man clearly unhappy with the sight of the land so afflicted. The large man's gaze wandering over the sight, When he spots the cigarette butts the man murmurs softly careful to not enter the afflicted space itself. "Those butts over there.." The man motioning towards them, "Might be able to make use for them..to find someone who was responsible here.." The man glancing around seeing if anything else may have gotten left behind before he begins to dig his heel into the ground to begin carving into it as he backs his way along the edge of the space murmuring softly beneath his breath in Arabic after motioning for the two Lupus scouts to stay within the boundaries for the moment at least.

Naiche is following along, always in the corner of someone's eyes, squirming under a logs, and writhing about, sliding under some leaves, and then pushing through the dirt.. and always keeping away from the danger of the corrupted earth, but here he is, sniffing, attempting to look things from a desistance, not approaching anything that might be too dangerous.

Shield Brother looks at Tormod and dips his head. <<Good thinking. Their scent may still be attached to it.. Or other things making us able to track them.>> He cocks his head as he observes the poisoned area. A low sorrowful whine can be heard.. <<It... It is terrible to behold..>> He looks and walks around a bit, making sure to stay out of the polluted area and keeping an ear open for possible visitors.

From the amount of damage to the plant life, it looks like there's probably been regular dumping of the chemicals here. Enough time for the chemicals to slowly choke the plants out, but getting refreshed enough they don't get washed away by wave, or just drain away down the watershed far enough to give the plants here a reprieve. Down the stream the plants are in similar shape, though the further from the site one looks, the better the plants are, as if it's spreading that way, but hasn't been going on long enough to kill things further down yet.

Halle reaches out to touch one of the trees whose leaves look sickly. "Don't worry, they'll take care of this," she tells the tree softly. before looking back to watch the pack in action.

It doesn't take long for it to become clear enough what Tormod was doing with his heel digging into the earth, The man beginning to dig out a large circle around the tainted area. The Silent Strider Theurge working to make that circle as quick as possible given the larger space, As he works he murmurs out. "Not sure how much good this will do, But should help stem some of the issue.. And yes, Hopefully track back to who left the butts.." The Theurge nodding slowly as he moves.

Starchaser sniffs around, looking closely at the bank of the stream. She noses one area in particular. >>Look! They use some sort of hose here, a really thick one about like my leg. It was laying here when they must of dumped this garbage.<<

Derek crouches forward, snuffling at the track. He eyes a bit of crushed plant. <<This... look here, comrades. There aren't barrel marks. This looks like... a -hose- was pulled through here.>> His ears lay back and he bares his teeth. <<We have to find them!>>

Naiche offers aloud from his spot nearby, <<Will we track? Or Ambush? Either could be dangerous. Yes?>> Naiche observes even as he grunt softly, <<Could clean? Work hard, while here?>>

Shield Brother comes trotting up to where Derek is and observes his find. <<That we have... This cannot stand.>> A look at Naiche and a wolf's version of a grin shows. <<Either will be dangerous... But an ambush is the best chance I think... They will be back.>> He looks around at the others. <<What do you all think?>>

Starchaser considers and responds. >>The road here is one we can track. Let's see how far the tracks take us.<<

As the others speak of traps and tracks Tormod remains intent on the task at hand for himself, The man having finished carving out the circle around the dump site finally. With the first step done Tormod is unslinging his pack and digging inside pulling out a thick bundle of smaller branches woven with dried plants and herbs tied together with a strip of leather. The man digging free a leather waterskin as well moments later slinging it around his neck. The pack is left outside the circle as Tormod returns to its edge, The man digging out a lighter as he tells the others. "Whichever is done, This space needs to be cleansed before it further harms Gaia and those of her blessings.." The man speaking softly and simply before he lights the bundle letting it burn only a few moments before blowing it out to leave the thing smoldering as he begins to wander counter clockwise as he calls to the spirits to help cleanse the land.

Shield brother slowly turns back into Hjalmar, his clothes still on his body although he had to leave his axe and shield behind. "Tormod. I would like to help you with the rite of cleansing." He will join in on the ritual then.

Derek trots back over to Tormod. >>I will help as well!<< he says. He starts moving his lupine body in a sinuous dance, pacing out the steps of the Ritual of Cleansing.

The words from the others on joining in gains a nod from Tormod as he moves, The man offering a small smile in thanks to them before his voice sounds out again. Not in English or Arabic but in the language of the spirits. The man calling upon them to help cleanse the area of the taint and sickness that it suffers from and bless the efforts of the others helping with the ritual. The man performing the ritual with a practiced ease.

Starchaser watches, for a moment, and then joins in. >>I want to learn and help.<< She follows the others as they participate, and humbly learns as Tormod goes about the rite.

Halle watches as the Rite of Cleansing takes place. At the end of it she walks over to the Theurge and offers him a small seed packet whose contents rattle a little if shaken. "Here, these are Sanctified grass seeds. It offered its help when I sang the Grass spirit awake. It is slower acting than a Rite of Cleansing, but also more powerful, enough to cover a mile or more. And it should help the plants recover much more quickly as well, or new ones grow in if these cannot recover," she tells him. "Activate it like a Talen and then plant the seeds." Halle gives an approving nod to the pack and moves back out of the way, watching the Umbra again.

Naiche waits very patiently for the ritual to finish, even as he lays on his stomach at this point, across the road at this point as he gives a large yawn then.<<Tracking now? walking?>>

Tormod begins to move in a more animated fashion towards the end, The man almost dancing as he tears the water skin from his neck quickly opening it. The man beginning to pour and sprinkle the water along the edge and just inside the circle before those last words to the spirits inviting them back to the place as the cleansing is brought to its end. Tormod takes a few breaths as he grows still looking over the dump site before he is glancing between the others. "Stream needs more than what I am capable of.. But this space should now be able to heal so long as we keep it safe from those who dumped here." A moment later he looks to Stargazer, "Will teach you the way and path to cleanse if you wish.." When Halle comes up and offers up the seed packet the man gives it a small shake before smiling giving a nod. The large man stepping finally into the circle as he focuses upon the seed packet using a small bit of spiritual energy to activate the seeds within before he begins to sprinkle them across the area as he makes his way towards the edge of the circle where it comes to meet with the corner of the stream. The man making sure to sprinkle seeds along the side of the stream and the circles edge there before he is looking back to the others. "We need to find those responsible for this.."

Derek snuffles at the packet of seeds Tormod gets handed, tail wagging eagerly. >>It's true what Defiant-Storm-rhya said,<< he barks to Halle. >>You -are- powerful!<< He looks up and around, lifting his tail high. >>Let us find our foe! This has gone on long -enough-!<<

The tracks are pretty easy to follow. There are at least two different vehicles as one has tires noticeably further apart than the other. The tires left enough marks in soft spots of the trails that they are easy to follow, especially as no other vehicles have been down this way.

The most overgrown path from the stream leads 1000 yards to a slightly better maintained fire road. This one is the kind of path that people into four-wheeling would go zipping down at higher speed, bouncing around as they do. The tracks turn there and then run for a mile out to a small rural paved road. The Garou can tell which direction the vehicles turned, but run out of things to follow at the paved road.

Hjalmar steps away from the circle as the ritual is ended by Tormod and gives him a nod when he looks the participants over. He watches as Halle offers the sachet of seeds to him which he spreads over the tainted area. And a grim smile shows at his statement. "Yes... We do. So let's make haste." Hjalmar starts his transformation again, turning lupine again. Shield Brother looks around and at Naiche. <<Yes. Tracking now.>> He follows the track with the others until they come up to the paved road. <<What now..>> An irritated growl can be heard.

Naiche gives the whole trail, the road, and everything a wide birth, as if expecting a car to barrel down any moment. Thus, when they are tracking on the road, Naiche is off to the side, watching, with large, worried eyes looking up and down, tail hidden between his legs, nervously following along.

Starchaser shakes her head as she pads up to the paved road. >>I figured this would happen. Their base of operations cannot be too close to where they dumped their pollution. It's not like they will have a big flashing sign.<<

When they reach the paved road Tormod reaches into his pocket removing the bundled cigarette butts. "We will need to see about finding them through these..or see if their tracks can be figured out..maybe it is something special with their tires.." A small shrug is given as he looks from pavement back to the dirt path and the tracks there. The large man moving along to look over the muddy tracks again briefly before he is pulling free his phone to take a picture of them.

Halle stands off of to the side, watching. There isn't any car traffic on the fire road. Though there will be an occasional car now and then on the paved road if they stick around there for very long. Halle listens quietly, seeing what the pack decides to do next after the pictures are taken of the tire marks.

<<What is plan here? Go up the road? Take what we want? Bite?>> Naiche mutters before he shakes his head and glances then to Tormod, responding, while eyeing the man curiously then, <<Look for Taint? Wyrm taint?>>

Shield Brother dips his head at Starchaser. >>I am afraid that you are right in that.<< He trips over to where Tormod is taking pictures. >>Maybe can find the brand of tire? And what type of car?<< He turns towards the paved road. >>I'd rather not trot over the road... Besides, their scent will be polluted by others I'm afraid.<<

The large Nordic man looks up when he hears question of the plan and what step to take next. The man giving his cell a little shake as he smiles softly, "Get this picture to one of the glass walkers and see if they have anything in their computers and such about the tracks.. I mean, about all I can think of since be hard as fuck like Shield here says to track them over the pavement with everything else that's passed over it." Tormod's words spoken softly and simply before he is glancing over towards Halle, "Think for now while we see if the tracks can be traced need to keep watch of the road in here.. See if they return.." The Strider suggesting before he falls silent.

Derek snuffles at the road. <<They can't be far now,>> he growls. <<This has been going on for some time. Surely they will be coming back!>> He looks around, ears perked. <<We should lay in wait for them>>

Halle glances amongst the wolves, noting the dynamics between them as they decide on a course of action.

Starchaser agrees. >>A Glass Walker could do a lot with the pictures. But my guess is most dumpers would come under cover of night. Perhaps a stake out?<<

Everyone gets into position. It's already night by the time the wolves are back to the stream. Time passes. It's kind of boring. At least the smell of the chemicals is gone from the stream. A few cars pass on the paved road, but not many, it's kind of an out of the way road with not a lot of homes or businesses on it.

But eventually, it pays off. A trio of headlights come down the paved road, and turn onto the fire road. In front of is an SUV. In the middle is a small tanker truck. Not a full size semi. Something more like this:

http://www.travel-images.com/pht/usa1705.jpg

Following them is another SUV. They make their way onto the fire road, heading in the correct direction. There's no markings on any of the vehicles.

Shield Brother is already laying quietly in waiting, looking and hearing for any sign of Tormod or Naiche... He can feel his own anticipation building because it can't surely be long anymore before anyone shows.. Right?

Tormod arrives almost as a blur as he quickly runs back to the ambush group using those gifts of his tribe to make his way back as quickly as possible. The Theurge telling the others as he arrives, "Small tanker with two escort vehicles. Be here shortly.. Everyone get ready, we can't let them spill their shit into the land and can't let them get away.." The Strider seeming to have his mind set on such matters as he returns to the group to warn them of the incoming vehicles before taking up his place with the others.

As the cars pull along, there is Naiche, running into the area, stumbling, flopping on the ground, doing a sweat, if stupid ass looking barrel roll before he lands up on his feet, glancing about to make sure he is okay, then tripping as he starts trying to run again and try and get into position, scrambling quickly! Very fast!

Starchaser waits laying low. Her blue eye and green eye almost glowing in the dark night. When Tormod arrives her ears perk. >>I'm ready. Everyone, keep quiet so we can read the situation when they arrive.<<

The headlights are visible through the forest before the vehicles actually emerge. Sweet Gaia! Giant metal beasts! From Detroit! The lead SUV pulls into the clearing and off to the right side and parks. The tanker truck pulls in doing a three point turn to the right so the truck ends up facing the way back out, but backing up the stream now. There's a big hose secured at the back, which looks like it probably was what left the marks in the mud. The third SUV pulls in and parks beside the first SUV. Doors open. Two men get out of each SUV, and two men get out of the tanker truck, making 6 total. Three of the men have visible firearms. One has a small submachine gun. One is carrying a pistol, and another has a rifle slung over his shoulder.

The three men with weapons walk about casually. One goes down to the stream, a little upstream of the tanker trunk. The other two stand guard, one goes about 25 feet out to one side of the little road, the other goes a same amount the other direction. Enough they can probably just see each other in the dark with a crescent moon only, but not real well. Two of the men, not armed visibly, go and stand in front of the tanker truck, talking to each other about 'those god-damned Warriors' and 'might have watched if it was Rockets-Cavaliers'. The 6th man is heading to the back of the truck and begins unfastening the big hose from where it's fastened in back.

Tormod is quick to act once the hose begins to be undone by the worker at the back of the tanker, The Strider growling low as he raises up and moves off to quickly rush in. Those claws even in that mostly human looking form brought to rend and slash at the workers form as he finds himself upon at least one of the people behind the taint of the area.

The man with the pistol sees the light floating in the air. "Hey, someone is out there!" he calls out. He draws his pistol and takes a few steps further away from the others, taking him past Hjalmar.

Meanwhile, the cries of the wounded plus the shout of Pistol-guy have the two at the front of the truck suddenly going alert and looking around. One starts running towards the back of the tanker truck, and one starts running towards Rifle guy.

Starchaser hurries over toward the guy that has the rifle. Despite him seeing her, she gives him a large pounce, taking him down, and clawing him good - all before he can do more than get his gun more than off his shoulder. Yeah, he isn't going to be able to use it now!

Shield Brother focuses on one of his gifts.. The Light of the Faerie. He makes a light pop up a bit in front of the pistol guy to distract him. This seemingly seems to work as the man's attention is immediately pulled towards it. And when he starts moving towards it.. A nice juicy backside opens up for him to attack!

Remaining hidden, only the sounds of bone snapping betray that Naiche remains nearby, oh and the crackle of something fizzing, fiddling in the background, but Naiche remains amidst the trees, and there are.. other problems that need to be dealt with it seems as the group is under attack. Naiche, instead remains in the background, turning into a giant fuck-you-assure, and his scarred forearms crackle with energy, even as he tenses up, preparing.

When Naiche finally does decide to get involved in the combat, it involves bursting out of the woods, howling and roaring, "Quick! Quick, end quickly! Kill, Pinch, SQUEEZE!" He'll howl out with the bloodlust of barley suppressed rage as the beast of a man rushes out and forces his claws against the man before him, digging into flesh with a very thorough rake. Lighting, visibly arcing from his arms and along the SMG wielders form. visible shaking, burning.. and blood splashing everywhere even as the Crinos grunts and snarls at the man before him.

"Run! Run.. Dangerous. Dangerous! Will Hurt! Maim! Kill!" Oh yes, Garou on the scene? Hopefully this will provide sufficient distraction for others

Starchaser goes in for the bite next. She has judged this man, and he is a bad man for being part of these polluters and with a rifle to protect them. Time for pain, dude. She CHOMPS into him, shaking him a bit. YOU GO DOWN ALREADY!

Guy 2 had a coat and hat on. He shrugs the coat off to reveal bulging muscles, and that his hands end in something like black, chitinous crab claws. His eyes are black, without pupils, and the claws clack together as he closes on Starchaser. He'll arrive at her next round.

HE IS CHOMPED! Rifle guy is bleeding, and part of his arm is bit off and on the ground in front of him, and it is time to GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE! He tries to stumble away, staggering. This big black and white wolf in front of him with the weird blue/green eyes. He has all intentions to get to the SUV and escape.

Tormod is pissed, perhaps beyond pissed. The large man leaning back from the injured worker before bringing those clawed hands down again only this time rather than flesh and squishy parts the man hits only air and the space between them.

With his backside turned towards him, pistol dude does not see this one coming. As the man's attention is still drawn to the bobbing light further off. With a snarl on his lips, Shield Brother attacks! He takes off and bites the man in his backside. And he does so hard! The taste of blood is filling his maw... And it is the taste of vengeance!

The pistol dude was seemingly not happy when he got to miss a part of his backside... He turns around, a sneer on his face and a strangled scream on his lips and points his gun and... Fires... The bullet sends a stinging sensation through Shield Brother's side. But it is clear that the wound is not a bad one.

Guy 1 also has coat and hat on. He pulls them off, though it takes some effort as if they don't want to come off. Finally they do, leaving him bare chested. He pulls a large knife out of the coat pocket before dropping it.

The large Nordic looking Theurge brings a clawed hand out to swipe at the departing worker before his friend draws Tormod's attention. The Garou turning to face the bare-chested man moving in quickly. Those clawed hands moving out to slice into the man as his left hand gets stuck, lodged within the man causing a rather macabre tug of war.

Naiche And there is Naiche, with a claw stuck in a man, sort of, and now there is a moment of consideration, clarity as the Lupus stares quietly at the man bleeding before him. Is it pity at the horror on the man's face? Well, given he has an SMG this may not be the time to be making that consideration, but there goes Naiche all the same, moving to ineffectually try and thunk the man on the head, his hand clasped into a fist, and thumping down on top of the SMG's dude's head.. and then there is a pause.. as the SMG guy just is.. oh shit he looks like he is in pain? Another thunk? Nothing. Another? "Fall asleep! ASLEEP!"

Starchaser sees the rifle guy moving toward the SUV, but then sees the Fomori coming towards her. She turns toward him and claws right into him! RIIIIIPPPPPPPPPPP!!!

Shield Brother has the taste in his maw now.. The bastard shot him and well, he's gonna return the favor of puncturing some skin! He opens his jaw wide and clamps down hard again! There's a big spray of warm... Arterial? Blood splashing over his fur and into his mouth. It was a good hit indeed!

Sure it might get his other hand stuck and turn this into the most disturbing Chinese finger puzzle in recent history but Tormod goes for it anyways, The man's left clawed hand coming down to sink into the fomori as he pushes the bane infused man down to the ground.

The rifle-wielding guy limps to the SUV and climbs inside. He's fishing for his car keys and manages to get the vehicle started.

The Fomori after Starchaser retaliates with his crab claw, and hits into her. She is able to fend him off and take it without damage.

The pistol dude is screaming loudly now as he's missing a large chunk out from his thigh. He clamps the wound with one hand, trying to stem the bleeding but not really succeeding. And in his panic/anger he fires 3 rapid shots at the big bad wolf attacking him. All shots go wide as the pain is just too much for him to be thinking clearly.

Rifle guy is in the SUV with the engine on. SMG guy is in bad shape but put the hurt on Naiche. Pistol guy is lying in a slowly expanding puddle of blood. Tar-baby Fomori 1 is unconscious and Tormod has managed to free his claws. Crab-claw Fomori 2 is just a little scratched as he faces off with Starchaser. Worker is running away in the dark.

Shield Brother does not wait for it. While pistol dude is firing the last shots of his life, he lunges for the thigh again. He clamps down and shakes his head ferociously, ripping a huge chunk out of the already mauled thigh. The man goes down with a strangled gasp and comes into shock. After a few moments of spasming around.. The man dies.. Shield Brother's maw is bright red with arterial blood and small pieces of meat hang from his teeth... He turns around in search of a new target....

Even as bullets continue to fly freely, and his skin now has a few, new bloody holes, Naiche doesn't move right away, or lash out, there is rage, and anger yes, but the beast just this time, SMASHS down a bit harder with his hand onto the man's head, forcing the bullets, the banging, to stop! And in Naiche's arms is what appears to be an incredibly bloody, and messed up man, held in his grip as he grunts, whining as he looks it over. "Messy. MESSY.. bloody. BLOODY!"

Starchaser is not having /ANY/ of this fomori - and the claws come out again to attack this Crab-claw Fomori! HACK/SLASH - thump! That fomori is suffering in a bad way!!!

Shield Brother downed his opponent and is now going for the wounded bastard that is trying to wheel himself out of this place. He charges towards the vehicles and slashes at the tires. And though the attack looked damn simple.. Tire rubber is nasty and tough.. He managed to puncture a tire, but slashing it to shreds did not happen.... Yet...

Mr. Crabby-claws goes after Starchaser again, but again, she is able to deflect any damage and stand up to him still.

Tormod growls out low, "Someone get the one that ran off.." The large man making his way quickly away from his fallen Fomori to begin closing in on Starchaser and her Fomori trying to make with the not near so fun pinches. The large Strider coming up behind Mr. Crabbypatty bringing those claws down into the things shoulders at an angle rending through flesh and bone to drive the thing down before those claws rip back tearing with them a chunk of the things upper spinal column where his clawed fingers had joined together.

The guy in the SUV guns the engine and the SUV lurches backwards. He screams as Shield Brother punctures the tire and the SUV backs up and smashes into a tree, denting the rear bumper and the hatch. Leaving it looking much like your SUV might look if some tailgating bitch in a Honda Pilot smashed into you. Because she was tailgating. Bitch.

Derek surges into his mighty war form, a great, red-and-brown brindled beast of war. The fur patterns reminiscent of wood upon the skin of the Celtic warriors of old. His eyes glowing like lambent blue flames as he bares his teeth in a snarl. >>I AM THE WYRM'S WORST NIGHTMARE!<< he roars as he races after the runner, kicking up a spray of water. >>AND YOUR POISONING DAYS ARE AT AN END!!<< Leaping high, he lifts his Fang Dagger, bringing it down as he lands upon the man, driving the blade to the hilt through the back of his neck. Pinning him to the ground and ending his life. Wrenching the blade free, he chuffs in disgust as he turns to start loping back to his comrades.

With the now dying man still in his arms, Naiche just kind of stares, the pent up rage, slowly venting as the claws slowly move to drop and dump him on the ground, quickly, the fingers crunching away. and turning into paws.. and the beast turning into a much more.. well, normal form of Lupus, even as Naiche soon is taking off skedaddling away from the group, leaving his bloody, unconscious victim on the ground. <<Should.. tend to wounds. Keep from bleeding out!>>

Transforming into a huge monster.. Shield Brother grins ferociously and garbles something hard to understand and rips open the door. Only to be shot by a lucky hit from the rifle. He lurches inside and grabs the rifle, pulling it free from the gunner and breaking it in two before leaning back in and pulling out the wounded and scared driver. He pushes the man down on the floor and snarls... <<Look.. We have a prisoner to question.. To find out who the bastards behind this are.>>