Oreius stood still and waited. He hoped someone would get his message. He would gather a small force and then resubmit his case to the High King Peter. The centaur knew what he was doing, even if the High King Peter didn't think it was the only way. He had to convince Peter that if the mainland of Narnia wasn't defended, all would be lost.

(OOC please join New Narnian Army, or NNA that I am forming
We ar loyal to Aslan, and to the High King Peter. Long Live Narnia!!)

BIC: May :aslan: 's blessing be on you all.

Out of the underbrush, the orange form of Fox bounded into view. "Greetings, General," he said with a nod and a gracious smirk, "as you know, I'm with you in your strategies. I may not neccessarily be built for battle, but I'll do what I can." He took a look around the familiar surroundings of his original home, now about to be the possible battlefield of yet another war. It was exciting for Fox, but it also made him a bit nervous. Who knew what the future held in store for himself and the rest of Narnia?

Oreius smiled at the Fox. The Fox was perhaps one of his favorite people in all of Narnia. His courage despite his size was something to be respected. Anyone could be brave when they were his size, but the fox was another story.

"My dear Fox, as long as you remain with me, and continue to show me the true meaning of courage, I will take care of you if it comes to battle. However, your size has advantages as well. You will be the most important aspect of all of my plans."

He gave the Fox a warm smile. "Come. The beavers are making supper. Let's eat." With a chuckle, Oreius walked to the Dam for some food.

Fox gave a satisfied grin at Orieus' words. "I appreciate your offer, General," he replied to being offered protection. Normally, this wouldn't be something Fox would take up on. He believed he could take care of himself, but with the war now upon Narnia, Aslan knows what would come after him. "An honor to be of service to you, Orieus, and the rest of Narnia," he added. "Yes, let's see what Mrs. Beaver has prepared for us this time, " he said with a chuckle of his own, trotting behind the centaur.

OOC;I'd like to ji the NNA,I LOVE the idea!but,do I goto the beaver's?I suppose so..I will knock when you are inside.why don't I com in, and then go off and take te message.that way, people can come in saying that they have heard from me!how does that sound....?

((fine by me.))

((That sounds all right, but I'm just wondering how Orieus will fit into the Beaver's lodge. :P ))

Fox sat inside the Beaver's Lodge, on a warm rug in front of their small fireplace. He lifted his head from a now empty plate, nudging it away from him with a black paw, and licking remains from his lips. Mr. Beaver had caught trout in the river and Mrs. Beaver had cooked them to perfection on her little stove. Fox had just finished the meal, and it left him satisfied, but not full. That wasn't a feeling he enjoyed all that much, knowing it would make him slower if he had the need to run. He had to admit, however, Mrs. Beaver was an excellent cook. And a decent nurse he added jokingly in thought as he remembered the time she mended his bite wounds in their first encounter with the wolves that was so long ago. Fox still had small scars from the injury on his back and sides, but his thick fur made sure they were never seen.

Standing to his feet, Fox gave a stretch of his back legs, letting out a yawn. "Now, Orieus," he spoke as he looked up at his friend, "what are your plans of action to defend the inland? I've heard of Sarlonis and Rhausa rallying gryphons for troops. Is there anyone else?"

((Hope this post is all right. If you had something else in mind, I'll edit it. ;)))

(OOC: I'll be sending you about 50 gryphons to work with as well. Wait until the "Gathering of Gryphons" thread is done for an exact count, but it should be about that. Maybe have a messanger come delivering word of the recruitment.)

Tumnus trotted over to the beaverdam, happily. He finally felt protected in the woods near his home due to the new Army forming there. He quickly looked around for signs of Alana in the water but didn't see anything. He knocked on the door of the dam. "It's Tumnus."

Riri flew over the Beaver's Dam and lowered down through the air toward it, stopping midair near Mr. Tumnus while looking around for his leader, Efat. Riri nodded at the faun, then looked to the door waiting for it to open, all the while flapping his wings to stay in place.

Efat flew up next to Riri."suprised you`/' she said with a smile"com-on, lets go down and see if we can help" they flew down to the beavers hut with greatt speed.Efat held her head up high and even let out a shrill"crawwwww!" the battle fever was coming, and she felt a million dollars!
"Riri,why don't we see if we can take a message?" she suggested, looking at her friend.she may be leader,but she didn't act allmighty.

OOC:ok, so we take a message.Riri,I don't intead to be mean, its just a title! ;)

Efat landed with a swoop wooosh! and knocked politelly on the door by tapping it with her claws.

Oreius opened the door and could see all that had arrived. " Thank you all for coming. Welcome, Tumnus. Riri, Efat, Please come and have a rest. We need to get the message out. Over supper, we will see about plotting your route. Our primary targets are the Bears and Dwarves down in the SOuthern region."

He smiled at the new attendees, and then at the Beavers. He would owe them alot for sharing their home.

Aiden, the joyful, adventurous centaur came running toward the beaver's dam.
She hoped that that she wasn't late. She had heard news of a meeting to
raise an army for Narnia, and she (just like her to) wanted to join in and
offer her help.

She was out of breath and her hair was slightly windblown from running
when she reached the door and knocked.

((I guess I'll be temporarily playing the Beavers, since they don't have a RPer.))

Black ears perked forward as Fox stared at the door. He heard a knock, then the voice of Tumnus, followed by two other voices that he couldn't put faces to. He layed down to the soft warmth of the rug as he watched who walked in, grateful to see more showing up. He began to ponder humorously as to how many would be able to fit into the Beavers' home before it got crowded.

Mrs. Beaver looked up from her cleaning of the dishes, turning towards the door as Orieus opened it. "Looks like we have some more visitors," she said thoughtfully, but in that cheery tone she always used, "Beaver, dear." She turned to her husband, who was just finishing up his mug of beer.

"Mmhm?" he replied passively through the cup, trying to get the last sip.

"Would you mind getting some more trout for our newly arriving guests," she requested as she gestured toward the Phoenixes and Faun, "I'm sure their mighty hungry after their journeys to here." She looked towards them with the warmest smile she could under the Beaver whiskers.

"All right, Mrs. Beaver," Mr. Beaver agreed, slowly getting up from his comfy chair. "If you'll excuse me," he said with a chuckle as he shuffled past everyone and out the door.

"Oh, do feel free to make yourselves at home, all of you," Mrs. Beaver said kindly, "Mr. Beaver will be back in no time with your supper." She went to the cubboard and brought out more plates and cups, making light clacking noises as the dishes were stacked together. She set them on the table and went back to her other work.

Fox still watched with the ever present gleam in his eyes. He gave a nod to each newcomer as they came in, then turned to Orieus as he heard him speak and discuss of the plans. Fox tilted his head at his words. "Very true, General," he added as he crossed his front paws, "but perhaps the Dwarves should be of more concern. After that last attack that wasn't even too far off from here, I believe that they wouldn't hesitate to begin another one, with or without a werewolf at their head. Very stubborn creatures, Dwarves." He paused, as if thinking deeper about the situation. "As for the Bears," he continued, "if I remember correctly, some of the black and brown bears had been on our side at the Fords of Beruna. I'd be more worried about the polar bears. They were the ones that had showed greatest loyalty to the Witch out of the bears."

Aiden walked into the dam (which did have a rather low ceiling) and looked around. It was a cozy house, and the warmth of the fire greatly attracted her.

She nodded and smiled at everyone around her and almost immediately
noticed Oreius, who she took to be the leader of the gathering. She
introduced herself as soon as she caught her breath.

"I am Aiden, and I came as soon as I heard. I do a lot of wandering,
and decided that this was the best place that I could be as the moment,
at your service. I do hope that I'm not late"

She watched and waited for the action to come to the next moment.

Oreius looked at the new recruit, a gorgeous young centaur, and smiled. He wasn't nearly as old as most people thought he was. War had aged him greatly. He looked at Aiden and was marveled. She's a good 'un thought Oreius to himself.

"Welcome. As you may know, or at least may have guessed, I am Oreius, and I am in charge of this," he paused here and looked around, "fierce band of warriors." Just a faint wiff of sarcasm could be traced in his voice. He knew that he could trust his life with any one of his fellow warriors, but wished that he could find Valinor and his gryphons, and perhaps some more centaurs.

"O, gorgeous Aiden, I am honored to meet your accquaintance, and I would be honored to have you aboard. And as to being late, unless you would consider missing a wonderful feast late, you're actually right on time. However, I am sure that there is plenty left." He smiled a warm, gracious smile at Aiden, and sighed. He had been getting lonley all those years in Aslan's Army, and was looking for someone special to call his own.

"RIRI, ERAT! If you haven't gone yet, I have just thought of something! Please fly over to meet Sarlonis, Rhausa, and Valinor to give word of recruitment. Tell them to meet at the Beaver's Dam>"

((You may have to post OOC because thir thread is closed.))

"Now back to buisness, Fox, I need a progress report on exactly how many and where the enemy is. I am sure you can find a way. Be careful, it would be a sore loss to all of Narnia if we were to lose you. Aslan bless your mission."

He turned his attention to Aiden, do you know what you can do?" He was lookeing to see if she had any helpful talents. "I am in need of another advisor, if that intrests you." This was true, he had only Fox that he could really talk to about stratigey. He needed the farsight of another centaur.

"Oreius, Sir. I am but a simple faun and I do not wish to be a warrior of any kind. However, I do wish to be in your service as I am greatful to your loyalty and for helping to protect my backyard. I wanted express my need to help in any way I can, whether it be helping to feed the army or just keeping my eyes open to anything strange. Just tell me what you need OFF the battleground and I will be the faun for the job." Tumnus stood there, trying to be brave for the Narnian Army.

As Mr. Beaver headed out to catch some trout, Tumnus spoke to him. "Mr Beaver, keep your eyes open for Alana, the Mermaid Queen. I saw her at the Lake in the Shuttering Woods and she was on her way to speak to Oreius as well."

Mr Beaver nodded and Tumnus returned his attention to Oreius for a response.

Alana surfaced on the eastern side of the dam and looked for signs of Oreius. As Mr. Beaver came out of the dam she sang a simple tune. "La la la"

"Hello, Queen Alana. We have been expecting you. Orieus is inside and if you sing a little louder he will be able to hear you. I would go get him but when Mrs Beaver says to fish for dinner......" He dove in doing what his wife told him.

Alana sang again.....louder this time, hoping to get Oreius' attention.

Oreius looked up as he heard a simple but graceful and beautiful melody coming from outside the Dam. He stepped outside and saw Alana, the Queen of the Mermaids. "Greetings, Queen of the Mermaids and friend of Narnia. What brings you so far from the sea?"

Oreius was curious as to why the mermaid was here, he had never seen the mermaid before, and wasn't expecting this. It took him by surprise.

"Fox, Aiden, it is getting a little crowded in here. Would you help me to get some tents set up outside, and some fires going? We may be getting a group of reinforcments from the gryphons, and we will need the extra room. By the way, I just got a messenger from King Peter, he approves of the idea of keeping me in charge of the mainland defence. Our main goal is to push Augoron's forces back. We want him pinned as far back as we can get him. If we can keep him trapped with the sea on one side and us on the other, things might work out alright. Fox, we need messengers out to the giants of the north, the Archenlanders, and anyone else. We need assistance."

Oreius was back in his element, he was a powerhouse at strategy. If he was on the battlefield, he commanded respect subconciously with an aura of power and authority emitting from his voice as he spoke.

"Tumnus, old friend, if you could help with the food, and perhaps play upon your instruments to entertain the troops, I would be much obliged. The troops need to maintain a high morale. We can't all fight in battle, but we can still be warriors in our own way."

He turned his attention back to the Mermaid Queen, and waited to hear what she had to say. He was aware of Aiden's presence as she moved around, but tried to put her out of his mind.

Aiden pushed her hair out of her way as she walked outside to help.
She was excited about her new occupation, and worked happily as
she thought over all that had just happend.

She loved that feeling that she had right now, like she was known
and needed. Actually, she had never been greeted by complete
strangers so well...

Although, she thought, it had mostly been Oreius that had surprised
her. As far back as she could remember, she had never been called
gorgeous...especially by someone she'd just met. It made her wonder...

She decided that he must be just a nice person and shrugged it off.
As she kept working, she thought of everything that there was to come.

At being referred to as a "feirce" warrior, Fox gave a "hmph" of a chuckle at Orieus and shook his head lightly. He watched as the centaurette managed to squeeze herself into the small home the best she could, then looked back up at Orieus as he spoke to her. A brow raised and one side of Fox' mouth curled into a smirk. He could tell what the centaur was getting at. Fox remembered using such flattery, himself, when he was in his younger days and being flirtatious with the vixens.

At his friend admitting that it was, indeed, getting crowded in the home, Fox stood to his feet. He was a bit reluctant to leave the comfort and warmth of the fireplace and the rug, but there were more important matters at hand. "Word of beak from the birds is that most of Augoron's forces are settled at his newly established fortress. They're numbers have significantly dwindled since the Fords of Beruna," he said as he lifted himself and stretch the rested muscles in his legs, "I haven't gotten word yet about where the Dwarves have retreated to, but I'm sure it won't be long 'til I do."

He turned towards the door when he heard the harmonious melody coming from the Mermaid Queen. He smiled contentedly, glad to finally meet Alana, whom he'd only heard about. He followed Orieus and Aiden out of the Beavers' home. He picked up his pace as he heard the General address him again, managing to keep up with the centaur. His ears turned to face sideways at the mentioning of messaging out to the Giants. "I'll send as many swift animals as I can find to Archenland and other parts of Narnia," he replied, "mostly squirrels and birds, perhaps a stag or two. If we can find Rumblebuffin the Good Giant to aid us again, I'm sure he would be of great use. The other Giants, though..." He trailed off, thinking they might not be too thrilled in helping those they had fought.

Oreius went about his work with a slightly preoccupied air. His mind always seemed to drift about to Aiden. He had to get her off his mind, but had never seen such a beautiful centaur. Noone had ever caught his eye like her before. People were asking him questions, but he didn't give them all of his attention. A deep layer of his mind was constantly on Aiden. He couldn't get over her. He needed to talk to Fox about finding out were Rhausa and her promised army of Gryphons were. They were supposed to be there an hour ago. But better late than ever. He also had to see about some help with the other various animals of Narnia. He wished the King were here.

"I was in the lake performing a ritual prayer when I heard news of your Army. I want to discuss what needs there might be of Merpeople? We can watch anywhere in the lakes and streams except for the lava filled moat near the White Witch's Castle. We already watch the marshland north of Cair Paravel. It was my father's wish to have peace restored to Narnia and now that he has passed it is my duty to help fullfill his wishes for my people and Aslan."


OOC: Father Christmas gave Alana a most unusual pendant. Use only in the most dire of circumstances, and you will walk as a human until a new day dawns. She may be of service to you.

Peter left Cair Paravel and made his way towards Beaver's Dam. He was intrested and how well the gathering of troops was going at Orieus' camp. As he left he noticed several guards with him and though it felt wierd being so protected he knew it was for the best.

As he got withing distance he could see the camp, which appeared to be very busy.

Good, Oreius is doing a great job just as I expected

Oreius looked up as he saw the King and his royal gaurd approaching. He called the troops to attention, and saluted. As the King approached, Oreius noted the gaurd surrounding him.

"welcome, sire. It is an honor and a priveledge indeed for your Grace to come here. My king, we were wondering if you would approve the request of aid from Archenland."

Oreius looked at the king with the utmost respect. He awaited his response. To Oreius, King Peter's word was law. Anything he said was done immediatley. His word was valued second only to that of Aslan himself.

"My cheif officers to this point are as follows: Fox is my main advisor; Efat and Riri are in charge of surveillence and communications; Mr. Tumnus is in charge of keeping the troop's morale up; the Beavers are in charge of lodging..." the list went on and on. Almost everyone there had some office or another. "...and Aiden is in charge of welcoming new recruits."

((If these are not alright with anyone, tell me and I will change some things around.))

Prince Corin walked to the Beaver's Dam, looking around at all of the creatures already there. He had decided to come on foot rather than horseback- it would look bad with all of the talking animals that lived here in Narnia, whether or not his horse was dumb. He had gotten word of the war the Narnian's faced, and had come at once.

Corin searched for the leader of this whole group to speak to, as he probably would want to know Archenland was willing to be an allie. He spotted the High King of Narnia talking to someone, and guessed they were the one's he should speak to. So, he went to them, just remembering to bow before the High King of the land. Corin turned to the other, a centaur he knew to be a general, whom he had heard was in charge of the army when he heard of Narnia's current situation.

"Hallo, sir. My father, King Lune, and I heard of the New Narnian Army, and he has told me to come and offer you Archenland's alliegance. He has said that any Archenlanders willing to join you will do so, and we will assist you as much as we can." Corin spoke, hoping it sounded alright. He was following orders that he actually liked, for once.

Tumnus smiled at the mention of keeping up the troop's morale. Glad to be an important part of the protection of Narnia, He was instantly inspired. As Oreius and High King Peter talked, He set off to find some firewood and kindling. A nice small fire, that's what we need. Near the dam wood was plenty. He found a clear spot nearby and built a simple campfire.

When the fire was roaring, there was a minimal amount of smoke to be seen. Tumnus sat on a rock and took out his flute. He played a little song and the flames danced to the mesmerizing music.

Peter watched as Orieus approached him. Peter was well pleased with the loyalty that Orieus had offered him and his willingness to do just as the High King asked really made Peter think quite hight of him. Peter listened carefully as Orieus told him each position the people would hold. Then all at once the mention of help from Archenland went into Peter's mind.

Peter began to ponder rather or not he should ask a country he knew little about for help, but before he reached a conclusion a boy adressing himself as Prince Corin had explained he had come from Archenland to offer Narnia their help.

"I am ver pleased to be offered so a great help, Prince Corin" Peter said almost as soon as the boy finished his statement. "One day I am sure our country will be able to return to the favor in one way or another."

Fox carried out in helping set up a fire and bring building supplies for the camp. The best he could do was carry small sticks of firewood and items for tents in his jaws, but it was something. He looked up from his work at the approaching of the High King. Putting down the fallen tree limbs he held, he trotted to stand by Orieus. He gave a gracious bow of the head as the others made their tributes. He gave a cool smirk as he was mentioned to King Peter to be the main advisor for the war plans. He felt great pride to be involved in such an exciting endeavor.

Black ears perking forward, Fox turned to see a boy walking into the clearing. The boy claimed to be Prince Corin of Archenland. It was wonderful news that he brought of the alliance from Archenland. Not only did it save Fox the long trip south, but it was an advantage to know they had such a helpful ally. He lowered himself to sit on his haunches, listening attentively to any other conversation.

Aiden was listening to the music the fawn was playing and enjoying the
feeling of antisipation rising up in her when she saw the High King and
Prince Corin arrive. She stopped what she was doing for a moment
and watched as they began to talk. She debated whether she should
keep working or drop everything and greet them.

Then she heard her name called, and she hurried over and nodded
gracefully to both of them. She prayed that she hadn't seemed
disrespectful and stupid, and quickly threw away her embarrassment
to keep it from showing through.

Oreius was glad when Aiden walked up beside him. Something about her made him feel so much stronger. So much braver. I just might love her he thought. He stopped suddenly with his thoughts. He had never thought that about anything or anyone else before. Except his parents and of coure Aslan; but he didn't think they counted. THis was another kind of love. A rush of emotions that poured themselves all over him whenever she was near. And when she looked at him, talked to him, or laughed that light dancing laugh of hers, the feeling increased. His knees would begin to shake a little, and his mind would fog over. When she talked, he gave her his full attention. :wub:

Corin nodded as he listened to King Peter answer him, and waited until he was finished speaking. "Thank you, sir, but I would think King Lune is always willing to help, whether he is repaid or not. Some of Archenland's army should be coming this way soon enough, I just left earlier to give you the message." Corin sighed and looked around the camp, as it was becoming with all of the different creatures getting to work.

"I've also asked any other willing Archenlanders to come and join your army, sir." Corin said, his eyes going back to King Peter. "And...if I may be of any help, sir... I'd like to help along with everyone else." he spoke. He hadn't told his father that part, as King Lune had been protective of both of his sons since Cor returned and told Corin he shouldn't join the war until he was needed, even if Archenland was siding with Narnia. Corin did not like that at all, he was a fighter, and he wanted to fight.

Ann stepped through the brush and glanced over the land. Her blue eyes scanned all the surroundings and checked to see if anyone was around. Emril had already gone, half way through their journey. She had decided it was enough for Emril to have come, and thought it was right if she turned back once they reached the western woods. Emril was a magnificant horse, bright and courageous, with plenty of things to do.

She made her way down the slope of the hill and skidded slightly. Her black boots and tan breeches were stained with mud and various colors of plants. She stepped towards the Beaver's Dam and saw all the people around,including Prince Corin. She looked upon them and then bowed graciously.

"Sorry if I'm late..." She stated, brushing herself off to atleast look descent. She was amazed at her surroundings, not many things surprised her.

"No your just in time. A little gryphon (allright, mabey not little) just told me Augoron is on his way here. If anyone get wounded, make your way back here. Now, we ride." Oreius said the last two sentences to everyone. "Tumnus, Beavers, could you stay here, tend to the wounded? We need someone here." He turned, not waiting for an answer, he didn't have time. They left in an hour.

Ana nodded sharply in repliance. She gazed upon her surroundings once more. But when the words "now we ride" reached her ears, she was slightly shocked. She hadn't expected to leave so soon, but she was well prepared.

((After the conclusion of the Shadow of War thread, I will be heading back here with the remaining troops. Wounded will already be here, as will Tumnus, I think. Until then, I am in battle, so I can't be here.))

Jeden, Oreius' lieutenant, walked back into the camp. He looked upon the defeated, worried, troops that were hobbling into camp. No one seemed unscathed. Oreius had been seriously injured, so he was serving as commander here. Sarlonis, was still above him, but Oreius had appointed Jeden to do this for him.

"Please. May I have your attention?" Jeden wasn't used to public speaking, but Oreius had taught him a thing or two. He had been Oreius's trainee, and had been in apprenticeship to Oreius in the arts of leading armies for three years.

"For those of you that don't know, Sarlonis and Oreius' armies were defeated by Augoron. In return for safe passage, Sarlonis has yeilded the Western Woods and Lantern Waste to Augoron. TUmnus, Beavers, that means your home as well. I am sorry. I wish that Oreius could have spoken to you personally, but he isn't in any condition to speak. In fact, he might not wake up. Before the battle, Oreius told me that if we were defeated, and lost this territory, to move all creatures under his charge to Cair Paravel. This is where our new Headquarters will be. All who can make the journey on foot should leave immediately. Those who cannot will be put upon stretchers and carried. I am sorry for the bad news, bt it could not be helped."

Jeden stepped into the crowd, signaling that his speech was done. He could do no more. Tears formed in his eyes. :(

Ana was struken with shock and fear. She listened to Jeden and gave a quick sigh, she didn't know things were this bad...but she made the best of it. She looked around and went to comfort the lieutenant. She made her way and spoke softly.
"I'm sorry..." she said as comforting as posible. She wrapped her arms around herself. Turning on her heals, immediatly she began helping with anything she could, even witht he loss formt he battle tearing at her mind.

The bushes are quavering and a white tiger's hoping out from a rasberry-bush.
He's walking to the Beaver's Dam and nodding for everbody. He's saying: "Hello everybody!"
He's walking to Oreius and stooping to him. "Good day, General. I'm Xemo Tagard. I loyal to Aslan
and The High King Peter. I came here for help you and your army. What can I do?"