[u][center][h3]Marianne Delacroix[/h3][/center][/u]
[center][img]http://i.imgur.com/Jr0Uu63.png?1[/img][/center]

Blinking as a bandit was suddenly killed mere feet away from her by a crossbow bolt, Marianne stopped in her tracks. Turning her head as yet another bandit was killed by an ice spell cast, she looked around for their sources and was pleased to see Sir Ian and Sir Tiral. Graciously being afforded a moment to catch her breath thanks to her allies. A thin sheen of sweat coated her skin, her attire damp and sticking to her body. Panting heavily, she watched as both crossbow bolts and icicles flew about the battlefield dropping bodies like flies. She had to conserve some of her energy, as she tired rather quickly. Especially if she still intended to aid the Captain. Turning to Sir Tiral, she was a little confused as to why he was apologizing. Did comrades not commonly fight side by side? As she thought over Sir Tiral's words, she nodded wordlessly in agreement with his plan. It was a great plan, after all. What better and quicker way than to douse the flames and allow their forces a direct path to regroup with the Captain?

Looking over to Sir Ian, who neared them at a slight clip, her face grew saddened when she realized he was injured. He was nursing his arm  and his gait was affected by yet a different wound it seemed. Eyes widening and mouth slightly agape, she noticed Sir Ian's hood had fallen back and saw his ears. Her expression lighting up visibly, despite her environment.

[i]"He's Hundi!?"[/i]

She thought to herself, forgetting where she was and the situation she was in.
She had never met a Hundi in person, only having heard stories and reading about them in books.
She took a step forward, wanting to touch those ears as her hand partway lifted.
But she stopped and shook her head as regained her composure.
Clearing her throat, she turned back to Sir Tiral.
Looking around her, she finally offered her response.

[b]"Please, Sir Tiral. You insult me. Just 'miss', is fine. I'm not betrothed yet. I'm still a young woman."[/b]

She laughed, smiling. Referring to his usage of the word 'madam'.

[b]"But yes, your idea is sound. The battle here is nearly over and won. I'll command my forces to the base of the fallen tree and we'll provide you with cover as you work. Once the flames are out, I'll begin to cast my own magic and support the Captain from afar. It should be more than enough to strike down that false 'King' Jeremiah."[/b]

After referring to the bandit as a 'King', she turned her head and spat at the ground to rid herself of the disgusting aftertaste.
Such a title should only be reserved for the most honorable and noble. For the most respectful leaders of this world, not to be sullied by such filth. To consider the bandit leader Jeremiah as a 'King' would be to insult her own father.
There was a sudden commotion as a few bandits began to lay down their weapons and kneeled with their arms raised, offering their surrender.
Eying a bandit waving a makeshift white flag, Marianne stared at him for a moment before turning back to Sir Tiral and Sir Ian.

[b]"We must act quickly."[/b] She said softly to them.

Turning to her men plus their additions, she issued her orders.

[b]"Men! Be mindful of the bandits that lay down their arms to surrender! Do not murder them senselessly and attempt to restrain them, we are not barbarians! Continue to subdue any who dare raise arms at you! Move to the base of the fallen tree, as we are providing support to Sir Tiral and Sir Ian!"[/b]

She said, her projecting her voice as loudly as she could so that her words carried far.
Thankfully, they all seemed to hear her clearly as a resounding cheer was their response to her.
Smiling somehow, Marianne slashed at the empty open air to flick excess blood on her blade to the ground as she turned back to her two comrades.

[b]"Let us move. Sir Ian, did you need me to stay close to your side? Or can you still move and fight with your wounds?"[/b]

She said as she began to walk forward, towards the tree. Partly to offer her genuine aid to him, partly because she wanted a closer look at those ears of his. Did he a tail, also? She would have to sneak a look when she could.