Gareth screamed like a guinea pig being murdered when his pursuer flung himself forward.

The fisherfolk looked up from their work.

He fell to the ground even before John slammed him down and he balled up, trying to protect himself. All the same, his head knocked the ground. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" he squeaked. But just then he felt a sharp blow to his jaw. This was how he was going to die! It took a moment to realize it when his attacker had stopped shouting and a moment longer to remember what was said.

"All clear, all clear," he cried. "I didn't mean any harm! I promise!"