The worker in front of Varelya moved first.
His staff came from above her shoulder and went directly toward the rope in Osric's hands.
Varelya did not turn around to protect it. She stepped forward instead, forcing the worker to change the angle of his attack before Rhevard caught the padded end from the side.
The worker behind Theo rushed in at the same time.
Theo already knew where the staff was going, but he did not call out to Rhevard. Saevra had moved into the space behind him and her bow was held across her body like a short staff.
Wood struck wood.
Theo moved back toward Osric while Varelya crossed in front of them. The formation changed shape again in real time and no one asked who should stand where.
The workers tried two more times, but every opening closed before a staff could reach the rope. When Osric finally stepped between the two trees, Velra raised one hand.
"Enough."
The four workers lowered their staffs.
