Deathseeker - Chapter 1: To Stain a Dove - Page 2

Dovril reaches a river in the forest and goes to wash her face. She hears footsteps and voices, and quietly retreats behind the bushes. Two men in brigandines and carrying muskets dismount from their horses and approach the river.

(letting their horses drink, they start to talk)

Man 1: Hey, did you hear about the massacre of Shalek? The skyhawks brought in the news this morning.
Man 2: Yeah, terrible, not a single survivor. The 5th Company will be reaching today to investigate the casualties.
Man 1: The marauders have grown bolder haven't they? That's the fifth village in three months, the third one this month alone.
Man 2: I don't like it. Trouble's brewing. It's like they're preparing for something. For war.
Man 1: What? Don't be ridiculous. They wouldn't dare attack the city. The savages fight only among themselves.

(She bares her teeth in anger and unsheathes her dagger)

Dovril: Savages? How dare they!
Spirit: No, Dovril, you're no match for them! This is not the way to do things.
Dovril: Then who will defend our people's honour?
Spirit: Now is not the time. Let it go, Dovril, let it go.

(Rustling in the leaves.)

Man 2: Quiet, I hear something.

(Two Maruaks jump out.)

Maruak 1: Well well, what do we have here? Two city dwellers out to see the countryside, eh?
Maruak 2: Ooh, I've never tasted the blood of a city folk, wonder what it’s like. (Gleeful laughter, rubs hands together)
Man 1: Stay back you savages, we're 1st Regiment scouts. If you value your lives, leave now and we'll spare you.

(Both reach for their muskets)

Maruak 1: Hoho, scouts eh. Guess what, we're scouts too. You wanna guess what we're scouting for?
Maruak 2: I know I know! Survivors! (hisses) Ccciiity dwellerssss!
Man 2: (Taken aback, shocked) This can’t be. The 5th Company?
Maruak 1: Is that what you call those pathetic weaklings our return party quashed at Shalek? (cackles) No matter, you'll be joining them soon.

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