Several small, hunch-backed creatures were waddling to and fro between the mounds. They looked like withered gnomes, bent over by the huge amount of stuff piled on their backs, like giant hermit crabs. When they found an item they liked--a broken toy, the spokes of a bicycle--they attached it to the collection on their backs and shuffled to the next mound. Some of their humps were large and quite impressive, in a sad kind of way.


A few of the creatures saw them and came waddling up, beady eyes bright and curious. Ash went for his sword.

Isiea simply ignores the creatures.

Lise was already on guard, what with her previous encounters of strange creatures.

They cocked their heads but didn't say anything. A few pressed closer, and several long fingers reached out to poke. Not maliciously, but curious, like seagulls pecking at a button. Two of them crowded Ash, pawing at his sword sheath. He shifted uneasily and stepped away. These beings obviously weren't dangerous, and perhaps they could point them in the right direction.

She gave them a faint smile. Maybe they could help.

She leans down and lets one sniff her hand.

They surrounded them, snuffling like eager dogs

She bent down and picked up one.

She picks up a smaller one.

They look up at them, jabbering to their friends on the ground