General disclaimer: I own nothing, even Maiyn generally decides her own path.
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When The Past Bites Back
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Maiyn nodded approvingly at new armour the Harpers had purchased. They quickly equipped the new sets, Imoen donning her mage robes with glee, and the ranger asked if everyone was done.
"Xan's still trying to find somethin'," said Imoen, "but we could wait for him outside."
Maiyn nodded, and herded everyone outside, shouting to Xan that they'd wait for him in the sunshine. The enchanter just nodded and returned to his shopping.
"After buyin' the armour we needed, and some other things," Imoen said as they exited the shop, "we're left with not much coin - despite Coran's sellin' of the shell."
Maiyn nodded, having expected as much. "We'll just need to find some quick and easy jobs before we try anything else," she said thoughtfully.
The companions crossed the road, and sat down on the benches under some trees that were grew along the side of the Elfsong Tavern. Minsc and Dynaheir trailed behind, the witch offering Boo a cracker from her pack. As they slowly made their way to join the others, Maiyn noticed a red-robed man head towards the two Rashemi with speed. She found herself standing up instinctively, causing Coran to follow suit.
"What's wrong?" he asked.
Maiyn pointed to the robed figure and headed over to Dynaheir and Minsc herself. She wasn't the only one, Coran and the Harpers were not far behind, and the stranger paused before he reached his targets, regarding the group with a smug look.
"I see I have found my prey. (Though what lackeys are these that follow her?)" His voice was thick with an accent that Maiyn couldn't recognise.
"Who art thou?" asked Dynaheir, arching en eyebrow at him. "Thou who wears a robe of the most vivid... red colour."
The man sneered. "I am Edwin Odesseiron. (Though I am sure these untrained monkeys will not have heard of my skills.) I am here to exterminate the meddlesome witch that stands before me, and none shall stop me! (Especially not this collective group of simians.)"
"You want to kill Minsc's witch?" The berserker roared in fury, readying Spidersbane in his hands. The others had approached, curious as to the exchange. "You shall do no such thing evil mage! Minsc and Boo shall buttkick you into the age of righteousness!"
Edwin merely snorted, and waved his hands around mysteriously. A myriad of colours flowed from his fingertips, waving their way through the party.
"Argh! Minsc and Boo shall... shall... oh, Boo, Minsc is so tired..." The berserker suddenly slumped to the ground, fast asleep. Maiyn looked at him in horror. This is not good. Several other thuds signalled the falls of Jaheira, Khalid, Yeslick and Coran. Maiyn pushed Dynaheir back, realising that the red mage was casting again.
Kivan and Imoen had begun shooting at Edwin, but mirrors popped up around him almost instantly, and he immediately plunged into his next conjuration. Maiyn drew out her sword and jumped towards him, slashing at his illusions, causing the passing commoners to gasp in awe and pause to watch the battle, seemingly unaware of the danger they were in.
Edwin finished his spell, and pointed to where Dynaheir was standing. Kivan immediately ran at her, sweeping her off her feet as he carried her away towards the shelter of the Elfsong's walls. An almighty blast exploded where the witch had been standing as a fireball blew forth; flames flew out from the centre in all directions, hitting the unconscious party members and causing them to waken up suddenly, and on fire. Several townspeople had found themselves incinerated with the blast, causing the survivors to flee in terror, screaming and shouting.
"We order you to halt in the name of the Flaming Fist!"
"Blast and bother," muttered Edwin, noticing the law enforcers bearing down upon the scene. "No matter, next time I shall not fail. (And I will be sure to cause great pain to those oafs travelling with her!)" A strange portal suddenly appeared by the mage's side, and he darted through it, disappearing from sight as it snapped shut after him.
Oh dear, thought Maiyn, realising that the enforcers were still approaching, and now eying her companions suspiciously. At least they'd managed to extinguish the flames on them, although Yeslick's beard was singed and Jaheira had minor burns that she was tending. Kivan led Dynaheir back to the safety of the group, Minsc eternally grateful to the elf for protecting his witch.
"What on earth..." Xan appeared at the doorway of Sorcerous Sundries, regarding the crisp corpses of the citizens lying around with surprise. Maiyn had no time to explain.
"What happened here?" The leader of the Flaming Fist patrol approached Maiyn, and she quickly described the events. His expression remained impassive - she had no idea if he believed her or not. The same could be said of Xan's look.
"You will all come to the Flaming Fist Headquarters and discuss this matter with our commander."
Maiyn sighed, but knew there was no option but to oblige. Soon the whole city would know of their arrival, and it was only a matter of time until the word spread to the Iron Throne. She'd hoped they could keep a low profile for at least a few days. Reluctantly, the party allowed themselves to be herded away by the guards, looking sheepishly at the surviving witnesses. As they left the scene, Maiyn heard a familiar voice carry through the air.
"Oh Monty, look at all the bodies! Too bad they're quite so badly burned... I don't think we'll be able to salvage any from here..."
Maiyn turned quickly, and saw Xzar and Montaron standing amongst the bodies of the dead. Xzar was fully absorbed in his hunt to find a usable corpse, but the halfling's gaze was fixed on her, and she felt uncomfortable. He was looking at her in a most odd way - almost as if he was shocked.
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"Greetings, I am Scar." The man regarded the group before him intently. He'd been told to expect ten of them, and he was studying them, wondering at how such a motley band had gained such a reputation as they had.
The young female elf was looking quite abashed. He had been surprised when she had stepped forward as the leader - several others looked to be much more experienced and capable, but whenever she'd spoke, they'd listened and obeyed. She commanded their respect, but not through force - almost as if it was through friendship. She had introduced herself as Maiyn - the one he had been waiting for. A small pendant on her chest hinted that she may have clerical powers, but he had been informed of her ranger talents.
Slightly behind her was the tallest of the elves. He looked as though he was a warrior of some sort, but Scar had learnt a long time ago not to judge people simply by first appearances. He was called Coran, it seemed, and he had been frowning at the other guards when Scar arrived, his stance showing a protective streak towards the leader.
At her other side were two half-elves, and he recognised their faces. Jaheira and Khalid were known to him, although it was not mutual. Their good deeds and work in and around Baldur's Gate preceded them when it came to authorities. He was not surprised to see them in her company.
A young human was behind them, standing next to a gruff looking dwarf. Imoen and Yeslick, they'd said their names were, and Scar had regarded them curiously. The human looked shiftily at her surroundings - the sign of a true rogue, he thought dryly. He had not failed to notice the magical ring on her fingers, however, and she seemed to be carrying a pack of spell components. The dwarf's holy symbol was on display for the world to see, and there could be no mistake in recognising him as a priest of Clangeddin.
The largest figure in the group had been referred to as Minsc. He was waving his hamster around as Scar spoke, which the commander found to be quite distracting. Next to him were two robed figures - more mages it appeared. They were known as Xan and Dynaheir - a Rashemeni witch and an elf from Evereska. He found this diversity interesting.
And last, but not least, was the final elven member - a stoic looking ranger it would seem, his hood drawn low over his face, and bow strapped to his back. He'd only muttered his name when he was asked - Kivan. Of them all, he seemed most bothered by the inconvenience of being dragged here to the Flaming Fist compound. His companions seemed more concerned with their tale of the red wizard being believed.
Scar had no reason to disbelieve it; the mage known as Edwin had come to his attention on more than one occasion, and the commander had become well aware of the levels the Thayvian mage would sink to, to achieve his missions. It was unfortunate he had been allowed to find the companions before the Flaming Fist themselves had, for now their presence in the city would become common knowledge much faster than he had wanted.
He sighed slightly, and continued with his introductions. "I am the second in command of the Flaming Fist here in the city of Baldur's Gate. My own commander, Duke Eltan, has expressed an interest in meeting with all of you; it has to do with your previous involvement with the Iron Throne."
He noticed their young leader start slightly at the mention of the merchant organisation, but she remained silent. "He would be obliged if you would take some time to see him," he continued encouragingly.
The young elf looked quickly to her companions before she spoke. "Are we to be charged with the deaths of the townspeople?" Her question was blunt.
"Ah, no," admitted Scar slowly. "We are... aware of the mage you spoke of, and have no reason to believe you are lying to us." She looked relieved, he noted, but it was fleeting. Her steely expression returned quickly.
"We have only just arrived in the city," she said simply. "We are tired, and wish to find lodgings and rest before we involve ourselves in any matters. If your commander wishes to speak to us, we will return tomorrow and listen to what he has to say."
Scar nodded. He had expected as much. "The Duke shall be pleased to see you at your convenience tomorrow then," he replied. "As shall I."
He watched the group as they filed out of the room. He could only hope that the stories he'd heard about them were true, and that they'd cooperate with the Flaming Fist in this matter. He gave a sigh as he sat back down at his desk. There is no point worrying about it until tomorrow, he mused.
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"Inn," said Maiyn simply as they escaped out into the city. She nudged Coran, letting him know it was his turn to lead for this endeavour. He quickly got an idea on what they could afford from Imoen, and thought for a moment.
"The Sturgeon is an acceptable establishment," he decided eventually. "It is the other side of town, but we can try it?"
Maiyn nodded, and followed him as he led the way through the throngs of people, turning from the main road to head down a quieter path that led towards an open space. A flash of red made Maiyn grab her sword angrily, and turn to the figure with her hand raised menacingly.
"You have a lot to answer-" she snarled, then jumped back in surprise. "Oh."
"Thou art quite adept, as Gorion had predicted," said the man with amusement. Maiyn was gasping in horror, and hastily re-sheathed her sword. "Good day to you young one, our paths cross once more. What marvellous happenstance that it should be in such a grand city as this!"
Maiyn nodded, inwardly yelling at herself for being so impulsive.
"Ah, I see by thine eyes, that thy have no time for idle banter," he continued, his eyes twinkling at her. "It is perhaps time for proper introductions - my name is Elminster, and I have heard nothing but tales of thy exploits in the time we have been apart."
Maiyn frowned slightly; the name, of course, was familiar, but she was sure she'd met this man before. Gorion had likely known him - he seemed to know everyone... but then she remembered - the man we met after while Xzar was climbing the monument south of the Friendly Arms! Elminster seemed to notice her sudden recognition and he chuckled slightly, moving to her side and walking with her.
"Thou art destined to have quite the impact on the Sword Coast. Quite the burden for one so young," he mused thoughtfully. "All that seems to be left is to determine motive, but perhaps that is for another day."
"It is good to see you again," Maiyn finally managed to say. "What brings you here?"
"Oh, all citizens of the Sword Coast eventually pass through Baldur's Gate, and I knew thou wouldst as well. Forgive my continued meddling, but I believe it's warranted, especially considering the pressures thou art no doubt confronting. My pestering of thee certainly pales in comparison to the influence thou've felt from others, including thine old self. Gorion raised thee as best he could, but 'tis hard indeed to overcome what is bred in the bone. Much more so in this case I would imagine."
Maiyn felt slightly uneasy with his words, and she looked around uncomfortably. "So what is it you wish of me?"
"I was about to ask this very same question of thee!" exclaimed Elminster. "Thou've come quite far and though my answers are often less than obvious, I hope they help a little. Gorion often chided me for my obliqueness, though he was fond of a little verbal hide and seek as well."
Maiyn nodded, and smiled as she recalled Gorion's deliberately cryptic hints to Imoen and Maiyn about where he had hidden small gifts for them when they were children. "What can you tell me of my father?" she asked quietly.
"He was long my friend," replied Elminster softly, "and we talked often, though less after he settled down with thee and Imoen. He was quite the traveller in his day, but he never regretted his new role as foster father. He felt a stable childhood for you both - especially for thee - would better prepare for... well, the problems that would eventually come. He cared deeply for thee, and Imoen. I hope this was not lost."
Maiyn shook her head. "We loved him as our own father," she said simply. "He was a good man, but... I think he wanted us to walk our own paths." She remembered the dream she'd had shortly after his death, when he'd smiled at her as she turned from the path that presented itself through the wood.
"I was not suggesting thou did otherwise," said Elminster solemnly as he halted. He placed a hand on Maiyn's shoulder, and looked straight into her eyes as he spoke. "Whatever the motives, independence is always a wise course to follow. My worry is that thy lineage is harder to escape than most - thou've bad blood in thee, and though Gorion did what he could to teach thee well and true, thy blood is also hungry. It will not let thee go without a fight. For better or worse, what's bred in the bone will be dealt with in time. I trust that thee is ready to face what is within thee?"
Maiyn nodded, assuming he was referring to her seeking justice for Gorion's death. "I know little of what is to come," she admitted, "but I will do what is best."
Elminster smiled. "I am sure the future will be kind to thee. For now I give my best wishes, and a few names that will serve thee well. Scar, of the Flaming Fist is a good man - I believe thy has already met him?" Maiyn nodded. "He is well worth trusting. His superior, Duke Eltan, is a good sort also. Both are to be believed when they speak." Elminster removed his hand from her shoulder and looked around.
"Well, I take my leave and wish thee and thy companions well," he said, offering a little wave before he wandered off back towards the Flaming Fist building. Maiyn watched him go with mixed feelings.
"What was he saying?" asked Imoen, materialising at her side. Maiyn asked Coran to continue to the inn, and explained to her friend the discussion she'd had.
"Well, if Elminster is interested in ya, ya must be doing somethin' right," noted Imoen. Maiyn grinned and nodded, her gaze seeking out Coran. He was walking at the head of the group, alone, his hood pulled down so his face was almost entirely shrouded. The ranger grinned to Imoen mischievously as she stalked up to him.
Before he could react to her presence, Maiyn had pulled his hood down even further, running away as she giggled. Jaheira rolled her eyes at the show of childishness, while Coran stopped in his tracks and called out.
"Do you think I will chase after you? No, I won't! Come back here and get your kiss!"
Maiyn's lilting laughter caused him to pull his hood back, and his keen sight sought out her presence, spotting her hiding behind the mighty form of Minsc. The berserker was looking confused at her actions, but she ran off laughing before he could ask her what was wrong. Coran was not far behind her, and he caught her easily, spinning her round to face him.
"Now, what shall I do with you?" he grinned, but she silenced him with a kiss which he heartily approved of. They were spending a few minutes doing silly things, young and carefree and waiting for the others to catch up with them, when they heard the voice.
"Coran?"
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Maiyn had hastily stepped back from Coran when the human woman called out his name. The ranger looked at her, noting her beautifully kept hair, long and golden with the slightest curls running through it; her piercing green eyes and her pretty, youthful face. She was wearing a resplendent gown, a deep shade of red with a gilded trim that matched her ringlets.
Coran was looking at her with surprise and familiarity - there was no doubting he recognised her, but his expression implied that the meeting wasn't welcome by him. An old flame I guess, Maiyn sighed to herself. The others had approached and were watching the scene intently from a safe distance; Maiyn fought the urge to head over to them.
"So you've come back to the city, coward," she said coldly to the fighter. She regarded him with contempt, but Maiyn noticed a hint of something else in her features. Sorrow?
"What brought you back?" she asked, not waiting for him to reply. "Are you looking for another girl to seduce with your deceitful promises?" Maiyn felt very uncomfortable, and she looked quickly to her other companions. They all wore serious expressions with the exception of Xan who seemed to be uncomfortable with the show.
"Now Briel..." Coran began.
"Perhaps you'd care to know that you have a daughter?"
Coran just stared at the woman, and Maiyn let out a tiny gasp. She moved quietly over to Imoen, and the thief took her hand supportively. The ranger didn't want to witness any more of this, but she had no choice - the woman didn't seem to be eager to go.
"I have a daughter?" asked Coran. His gaze shifted quickly to Maiyn for a split second, and it was enough to read the hurt on her features. "That's... that's... aah, wonderful..."
"Surprised that your fling had consequences?" Briel's eyebrow arched. "My husband was none too pleased when my daughter turned out to be a half-elf." Coran winced. "You remember Yago, don't you?" she continued. "He went into a fury and nearly killed me. He cursed little Namara..." Briel's anger disappeared almost instantly as she spoke of her child, her voice almost breaking.
"He... he cursed her," she repeated, tears running down her cheeks. "She won't even live to see her first birthday..."
Coran looked horrified, but he said nothing. Maiyn pulled her hand gently free from Imoen and approached the warring duo. "Can nothing cure her?" she asked gently.
Briel spun around to look at the ranger, instant jealousy flaring up in her. "I can't cure her," she said, back to her original icy tone, "only Yago can reverse it."
"Her name's Namara..." Coran said, as if he was in a trance. "Curse? What curse? Slow down and let me..."
"Enough!" shouted the human. "It is bad enough I live on knowing my daughter will die, than to also be faced with her lying father." She turned and quickly walked off without a look backwards. Maiyn looked to Coran, but he seemed to be in shock. She sighed, and ran after the human alone.
"Wait!" she called as she caught up with Brielbara. "You are a mage yourself?"
The woman nodded, but the look of distrust was still evident in her eyes. She had obviously seen Coran and Maiyn's antics before her interruption, and had figured out she was his latest fling. Maiyn tried to ignore this for now, and pressed on with her questions.
"You say your husband can reverse the spell," she said softly, "so does that mean it is in his spellbook? If we obtained it, could you use it yourself?"
"I... I'm not sure," admitted the mage hesitantly. Maiyn could tell that she was still unwilling to trust her, but she wouldn't - she couldn't - let Coran's child die without trying to help.
"Isn't it worth a try?"
"I would try anything to help her!" Brielbara's eyes flashed at the elf, and Maiyn nodded silently. "He has been spending his nights at the Low Lantern since he left me. He has a room there."
"We shall go and retrieve his book." Maiyn said it confidently, and the woman regarded her with a hint of surprise. "Can you meet us at the Sturgeon? We will be heading there to find lodgings."
The mage nodded and left swiftly. Maiyn watched her walk away, her mind in overdrive.
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The Low Lantern was a boat that had been made into a tavern, resting at the docks of the city. Maiyn, Coran, Minsc and Dynaheir entered it through the hatchway, looking around for any sign of their target. The others had been sent to find the Sturgeon and wait there - the combined forces of Imoen and Kivan assuring Maiyn that they would be fine navigating the city.
Minsc led the way along the narrow interior, dodging patrons as he took in his surroundings. Another hatch led down to another level, slightly less busy, and Maiyn approached the barkeep to ask him where their private rooms were. He pointed to a small hole in the far wall and she thanked him.
The hole led to some stairs, leading down to the very bowels of the ship. Only three rooms were there, and the first two were empty. Maiyn tried the third door, discovering it was locked; Coran pick it quickly and the door swung open, a bald, middle-aged human man scowling at them as he stood from his bed.
"Is that him?" whispered Maiyn. Coran's look was steely as he nodded.
"What in the Nine Hells are the lot of you doing, trying to come into my room?"
Maiyn put a restraining hand on Coran's arm - Let me do the talking, it said. He grit his teeth.
"We're here to cure the curse you put on Brielbara's daughter," she said calmly. He stared at her, sneering with disgust.
"So the bitch hired some adventurers to get a cure for her precious daughter?" Maiyn felt Coran tense, but she still held him. "She should have sent some up to the task, instead of you rabble."
"A mage who uses his knowledge to curse a child is to be condemned!" exclaimed Dynaheir. Maiyn looked at the witch with some surprise. "Is there no shred of goodness in thine heart that thou wouldst do such a thing? Thy wife and her lover wronged thee, but thou didst the most vile deed out of the three of ye involved!"
"A mage who does not use his knowledge as he pleases is a fool!" shouted Yago, shaking with rage. "And I think I know just how to apply mine!"
Maiyn let go of Coran's arm, and the elf reached Yago before the human could even register his charge. One swift blow was all it took, but Coran didn't stop there, and Minsc had to pull Coran away, trying to calm the furious elf and prevent him from dismembering the body even further.
Dynaheir quickly located the spellbook they needed, and they left the inn quickly, getting out into the cool evening air. Coran went to stand at the edge of the docks, staring out to the sea with blank eyes and Maiyn signalled for the Rashemi to give him a few moments. Eventually he turned back to them, nodding grimly as he set off to the Sturgeon.
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"Tell me... did you get the book?"
Maiyn nodded to Brielbara, and Dynaheir handed over the spellbook they'd found on Yago's body. The young human immediately started weeping with relief, dashing up to her room to see if she could manipulate the magic to reverse the curse. The companions sat in an uneasy silence as they waited - Coran had asked to use another tavern for their own rest when he realised Brielbara was staying there, and Maiyn had nodded. "We will find one when she has tried the spellbook," she'd assured him. Almost an hour had passed before the human came back down to the common room.
"Thank you. Thank you so very much," she sobbed. "It worked, and I owe you everything. If there is ever anything I can do for you..."
Maiyn shook her head and just placed her hand on the woman's arm briefly. Brielbara's eyes moved to her - the distrust was gone, the coldness had mellowed. Maiyn called for the others to prepare to leave, and looked over to Coran. He was still caught in his own world, and hadn't said a word since he'd spoken of the location of the Low Lantern. Brielbara's gaze also fell to him and she slowly walked over to his side.
"What about you Coran? Are you planning on leaving again too?" Her voice was softer than it had been before, and he regarded her with some surprise. "Do you not even want to try to be a father?"
Coran stood abruptly, and moved away slightly. "I'm sorry Briel, but we... we have been over this already - and you said that-"
"That you are an idiot." She'd composed herself, her coldness returned. "Go if you want, but maybe one day you'll figure out what it is you want, elf."
Coran just sighed.
"Do you not even want to see Namara?" asked the human. "She has your eyes... elven eyes."
"I..." Coran looked lost. "I... Briel, I do not know."
"I curse the day I set eyes on you Coran," Brielbara said quietly.
"I am sorry beautiful," sighed Coran, "but there is really nothing I can do for you or your child." He turned to the others. "Come, let us go."
Without another word he strode out of the tavern without a single glance back. Maiyn looked over to Brielbara, and their eyes met. Maiyn could see the hurt that lay within them, a shared hurt that was mirrored in her own expression, just experienced from a different angle. There was no longer any hostility or anger between them; but each was a reminder of the other's pain.
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The fighter led the way down a short alley to a nearby tavern. Called 'The Blushing Mermaid', Maiyn didn't hold out much hope for it, but it was getting late and they needed to find somewhere. They all packed into the cramped entrance of the inn, Maiyn looking around the dim surroundings to locate the bar and, more importantly, the barkeep, when a large ogre lumbered over to them.
"Hummmm. I be Larze," he said. "You be Maiyn."
Maiyn immediately tensed, and turned slowly to regard the huge figure.
"Don't deny it," he continued slowly. "You should not have come to Baldur's Gate. You given many warning before, but you ignore them. Now you must pay. Sorry, but Larze must kill."
"I'm not Maiyn," she lied. "Do we look like a party of fearsome adventurers?" Her hand waved over her closest companions. Xan and Imoen were almost leaning on each other, weary from the wandering around and Yeslick was trying to unknot a bit of his beard. "We're just some travellers looking for a room for the night.
"Larze has seen pictures, you look like Maiyn."
"No no no," said Maiyn, wondering about said pictures. "Maiyn is a... juggernaught of destruction, with, er, flaming red eyes and a roaring voice! My companions and I are just normal folks."
"Huh?" The ogre frowned in concentration. "But you look like picture. It had no fire eyes or big voice. But pictures don't have voices. Hmmm. Me confused."
"Maybe you should go somewhere well lit and take another look at the picture," replied the ranger, hoping she sounded encouraging. "We can wait right here!"
"Yes!" The ogre seemed pleased with this idea. "Larze will go and see for sure, and you will wait here until Larze comes back."
Maiyn sighed with relief as Larze began to lumber off, then flinched as Minsc spoke. He was at the rear of the group, and had obviously not been listening to the conversation at all, but his resounding voice carried across most of the tavern as he called out to his leader.
"...yes Boo? I'll ask. Maiyn! Do we have any apples left? Boo says he's got this craving for apples, and..."
Larze froze, and slowly shuffled back to face the group. Maiyn tried to smile pleasantly at him.
"Maiyn! It is you!" he roared. "DIE!"
The companions quickly glared at Minsc before they dodged the ogre's charge.
"Why the long faces?" asked the puzzled berserker, readying his sword for the fight. "Glorious battle awaits and then Boo shall get his apples, for he can wait you know! GO FOR THE EYES BOO, GO FOR THE EYES! Rargh!"
