Once out in the street, Alayna walks towards the smell of the docks, she takes stock of what she has with her, a good knife, her long skewer, and he lash. Safe as I am like ta get tonight. Her thoughts are blurred between the ambush she just walked out of, Aye, the tramp and her trainer planned that - Like the lotus eaters of Katapesh. Temptin' but ya' never get the stink off yer soul! Still whistling and swaggering as she enters the docks area, she goes into some of the better taverns she knows about, and starts poking around for information about the Wild Drake. And maybe see if I cannae bump into Anderas?
"Nay, no lie. But ya don' see my indictment. We are unfit. Something is coming. Something big. Izzie comes from nowhere, and ya know 'e hates this place even more than tha' archer ever did. Maybe it's the stain n' tha sky. Call it fate; like the Harrow I found tha other day. You will fail in your kindness, an' that'll break the chil's heart. As it breaks mine now. I'll see ya' on the morrow, past dawn I be sure."
As she storms off, Cameron shouts, "Alayna! Don't go!" Sending that Nessa still had things unsaid, Cameron tels the others in the room, "I'll try and get her back."
He runs out after Alayna and cries, "Wait up Alayna!" He marvels at how fast she was walking, thinking 'By the Dreamer, I'm unfit, look at her go.' After a bit he catches up and tells her, "Well damn, I thought we were going to hear about murdered girls and not that!." He shakes his head and says gently, "I don't know what The Dreamer's plan is, but this isn't the only way for Sylee. Some of the other temples might be able to foster the lass, sill she's fixated on Nessa and breaking that bond would be painful. One, no two things are sure, the first is Sylee needs a proper home, Caitlin's place is better than many. The other thing is our group was thrown together for a reason, I know it in my bones. It's all part of the grand design, you are supposed to be wuth us, please come back."
Cameron sighs and with a heavy heart he addresses Caithlin, "She's probably right that we are all damaged. Anyway I was under the impression we were here to discuss the murders of working girls. So many dreams cut short is deeply offensive and I'd like to do whatever I can to stop it. This isn't to say Sylee's future isn't important, it is, but at least she has one!"
Izkrael had witnessed the agitated argument between Nessa and Alayn with his usual indifference: that little thing’s future didn’t concern him. In the past, when he was the one to be left alone, no one had taken care of him. He had to learn to get along in the wilds without any companion except for his bow. That child, Sylee, that everyone kept to call unlucky, in the eyes of Izkrael was instead very lucky: Tsk, she’s got not one but two people worrying about her future. Not unlucky at all.
---
The discussion continued, and Izrael couldn’t hold a yawn. Actually, he wasn’t paying attention at all. Arguments between humans bored him: he deemed them so childish, foolish and unnecessary. When will this agony come to an end? I thought we were here mainly to solve the matter of the murdered calistrian faithful…
---
When the half-orc came into the room, Izkrael looked at him with interest, finally drawn to something different from the empty blathering of the two mortal women. There’s room for everyone in this city, thought the elf with a bit of prejudice, but after all, if that wasn’t the case, even I wouldn’t be here.
---
Izkrael suddenly heard his name (or rather a distortion thereof) being pronounced by Alayna. The girl had just got through saying that Izkrael had come out of nowhere, and that she was sure that the elf hated that place. Then, she mentioned the stain in the sky. Tsk, this mortal girl. “Comes from nowhere”. Humans are never going to change…Is it possible that she regard everything out of her visual field as “nowhere”? How can one’s mind be limited to what is part of his life, excluding all the rest?
Irritated, Izkrael decided to finally take the floor: “The wildlands outside of Riddleport are not nothing, my naïve human. If it wasn’t for that lands, you city inhabitants would never eat the fruits from the fields. I wouldn’t say I came out of nowhere. Until now, I’ve simply lived in a different place from yours. This still doesn’t place me in nowhere”. Izkrael’s voice was not harsh, but quiet and calm. “I think, rather, that there’s something which truly came out of nowhere, but that’s not me. I’m speaking about the shadow in the sky. The Blot, as you call it here in the city. Lady Caithlin, do you know something about this…Blot?”, asked Izkrael using the hook provided by Alayna. He had used the girl’s words to get to the point he was interested in, although he was trying to conceal his interest in the Blot behind an indifferent expression.
No, you be right, not nowhere, just surprising."
"Aye was a brilliantly planned trap; bring in the bounty, show 'er safe harbor and then descend. No matter now, whether this is best no longer matters - it's been decided and I'll 'ave no more part in hurting Sylee." She reaches out and takes hold of Cam's arm, "And I'll nay forget it was you wot came to say yer mind.' Alayna lets her hand drop and adds, "So, it'll be ta the docks and mayhap find a word about out ship and maybe her officers can get a proper invite to the Goblin. Til the morrow, dig what ya can an' find out what ya can about these dead Jennies."
I've heard of these murders, and I'm glad to see you value the lives of streetwalkers, Cameron. Sorry for your blonde friend, I didn't want to upset her. As for the Blot, as it is called, I must say I'm afraid of it, even if I can't know why, as if it was something, no, not something, a THREAT, that I should be able to recognise, but escape my mind everytime. Time will tell, I guess. Now, what do you know about the murders?
"What is this blot doing to everyone? Has the whole town gone crazy?"
Krucina walks over to stand behind Nessa and places her hands on her shoulders, squeezing a bit. She whispers into Nessa's ear...
"Nie pokazuj łzy, kochanie. You are the child's mother now. You have both chose this path, nothing can change this."
Nessa raised her taloned hand and gently laid it over Krucina's. There was a definite catch in her voice as she said, "Thank you Krucina." She turned back to Caithlin and asked, "The meeting at the temple didn't give us much other than by the docks and only one was found so far and she was dead. I don't think the others turned up at all yet so they might be alive still, but I doubt it. We could use names of the missing, I'm not sure what else." She trailed off as Nessa realized she had no idea what all they needed to know and looked at the others for help.
Something misses Alayna's head by inches, from behind, and her hat falls on the muddy ground...
Cameron nods and adds, "Names would be a good start, but we would need to where and how they lost their lives and if there were any witnesses. We’d want to draw the locations of each on a map and it might become obvious if we’re dealing with one or more killers.”
Izkrael ponders all the available options for a moment, then answers: "We've got nothing to start with except for the fact that we know the victims were calistrians. We can start with gathering information asking around, but I feat that would draw too many undesired attentions. So maybe we could set up a trap, trying to lure the murderers into acting. I was thinking of using Nessa as a bait while we follow her from a distance, ready to spring into action if something bad occurs. But this would put her into risk".
Izkrael shooks his head, dissatisfied. Either of my plans are not good enough. We should have asked for more information to Mistress Pamodae....
Both have light armors, and carries sap. Of course, they have daggers too, if they have to be rougher than usual...
"Looks like yer a few louts short o'a press gang." Alayna gives what she hopes will be a coquettish smile and wink, "Ya sure ya wanna go through wit' this? yer best chance a'boardin' just sailed away." Her whip moves, hissing against the ground in constant motion. "Head off now, or get sent to yer billets short o' yer pride." Her dagger comes free of her belt and she holds it mostly behind her back.
for
Caithlin takes the time of reflexion, then says
I don't know everything, of course. But as far as I know, there were four prostitutes who "disappeared", and only one was found dead. I know for sure that the dead one was Lula, Lula Tonn. Unfortunatly, her corpse was headless. I don't know the names of the three others, but I think someone could help you, if you ask politely. It's a guard, a sergeant in the guard named Drexell. He's taking a special interest in these murders, or disparitions. Do you know him?
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Come on sweetie.. don't try to resist, and we won't be too harsh on you..
The first man, with a scar on his left cheek, comes closer, and dodge the whip
the second tries to uses his blade on the young blonde
Alayna easily parries the blade, but misses her counter attack
Cameron rolls his eyes and remarks, "Unfortunately yes. Sergeant Drexell made his opinion perfectly clear."
He glances at Nessa and asks, "Maybe there's another way, perhaps you could find out about these girls through the temple. See if there's some common factor that links them, beyond their profession."
"Then the hard way!" She thrusts once at the guy that tried to stab her and then backs up again, ensuring the bully boys can't get in behind her.
for
Maybe I could help you getting on the good side of the sergeant? Why don't you offer him some of this honey cake? I'm pretty sure he will appreciate. It's been nearly a year since he last ate some.
Caithlinn looks at Sylee
Of course, your daughter can stay here i she agrees, Nessa. She could meet some boys and girls of her age.
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We must take her alive, remember! says the man with the scar to his companion, who simply grunts, and tries to stab Alayna's leg
"I hope you 'ave enough in yer pockets ta cover buyin' new trousers!" Alayna drops her whip and her rapier slides free of it's scabbard. Again, she thrusts at Mack - and nothing. Watching the man turn away from the killing tip she simply backs up.
for
"I don't know this Drexell you're talking about. Who is he? How do you know him? And why do you think he wouldn't help us?", asks Izkrael addressing Cameron.
Nessa looked thoughtful, it was an odd look for her as it made her forehead crinkle like it hurt some and said, "We've had problems with him before. He harassed the Gold Goblin at one point. From what I learned from him he may not like us personally, but if we're trying to do something to help with a problem he may be willing to help us out with it, particularly if it will help stop it from happening. It's also possible he might know the names of some more of the missing. As for the First Sting, I would prefer not to incur any further debt with her than I need to, though for this she may not charge a fee since she set us all on this task. We can always go and ask her."
Cameron tells Izkrael evenly, "As Nessa said, Seargant Drexell is a Gendarme. Apparently one of the few honest ones if rumors are to be believed. Of course that doesn't stop him from being a bully used for political ends. A few weeks ago he was sent to shake the Goblin down, it seems Saul is not well liked. We can try the honey cake, its very good, but I doubt he'll be pleased to see us."
Caithlinn smiles when she hears Cameron words
He is honest to the core, and serves justice more than laws, which is a good thing in this corrupt town. As for the First Sting, Nessa, I think she expects you to find some informations by yourself. Maybe you should try to ask Lula's friends on the streets? The girls are probably nervous, but showing that the Temple is looking for them could be a good thing.
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Owww! She hit me! You saw it! I need her blood on my blade!
Mack seems really unhappy with Alayna getting the better of him
"I di' no such thing! Your an oaf wha' fell on the blade I was getting for you!" She thrusts at the knife wielding assailant, "Don't be angry, lad, it's the only prick that'll see blood tonight." She looks for a moment at the other would be press ganger, "You aint done a' thing you weren't asked ta', but you may wanna take yer boy here and fin' calmer waters!"
for
"Scarface" steps back from the fight, aknowledging Alayna prowess and even puting his blade back into his scabbard
Come on... The lass is tough... No need to kill or get killed.
But his partner is still enraged by the blonde piratess, and presses the fight, clumsily trying to hit his opponent
Nessa nodded in agreement, "You're right Caithlin, I should have though of asking other streetwalkers myself. As for Drexell, I think ii's a good idea to try speaking with him. We can go in a moment or two." Nessa went over to Sylee and knelt down in front of her then laid a hand on the girl's shoulder, "Hey honey, I have some things to get done with Cameron and Uncle Izzie this evening and since it's been a long day for you, for us both, I want you to stay here with Grandma Caithlin. She'll show you the house and the room we'll both be staying in. I promise you I'll be back soon alright?" She puts her arms around Sylee in a hug and kisses her on the forehead.
Izkrael too nods in agreement: "Alright. While we walk, would you mind telling me what this Drexell has done to you in the past, precisely? I wasn't there at that moment, and that could maybe prove...useful".
Before going out, Izkrael puts his right hand to his chest and performs a slight bow: "Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us, Lady Caithlin".
I din't think tha'd work! Returning her attention to the twice poked fool, she asks "So, ya like bein' on the receivin' end? I hear tell Calistria 'as a workin' temple where a workin' lad such as yerself can turn a fine coin turnin' the cheek."
for
Alayna miss, but her words enrage her opponent, who strikes blindly and furiously
I'll made so much holes in your skin you will be able to please many Calistrians at the same time!
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Take care, Mommy! And kick the baddies in the nuts!
Sylee gives a big hug to her mommy, and then tries her best not to cry when she goes out. Caithlin gives to Cameron some honey cake before they go.
Lula's body was found on the docks, you should try there first. There might be guards or Gendarmes, perhaps even the good sergeant. There will be some ... ladies of the night too, looking for customers with even more fear and distrust in their hearts than usual. So be as kind and gentle as possible with them, and display your allegiance to Desna. As everyone, they have dreams, and they don't want to live in a nightmare.
Caithlin's fingers lingers a little on Cameron's hands when she gives him the cake
"Clearly ya' cannae find a hole - maybe you just better at bein' one." Her laugh tinkles like chimes as she distracts even herself. Maybe.
Mack manages to broke a part of his blade on the wall
Now the wounds will become really wicked, girl...
Done toying with this loser, Alayna locks her blade onto the remnants of his, forcing herself corps a'corps, "Remember this embrace when yer Cap'n shags your boyhole for bein' a failin' t###!" She delivers a wicked headbutt to the man's nose, then slips free dragging the edge of her blade across his cheek, then his bicep all in one smooth motion.
The man falls down, with blood on his arm and face.
He doesn't know when to stop, does he? says his partner quite casually.
And now, what? Do you really wish to kill him? You've already made your point, I guess.
"Wot matter ta' me if'n a would be rapist bleeds ta' death in an alley." She wipes clean her blade and says, "But he be on yer crew, tend ta 'im if ya care. Oh, and be a dear and hand me up my tricorn."
As the man hands back her hat she smiles, "For me, I'd as soon revel as brawl. What ship do ya sail wit?" She thinks, Strange days and ways ya learn at sea...
"I will Sylee, I'll be back in a while, I promise." She remembered to look little Sylee in the eyes before she left, she remembered the promise she made and even though things were different this time Nessa refused to take any chances. When Caithlin made her suggestions Nessa said, "Thank you Caithlin, for everything. I'll be back soon I hope and in the morning Sylee and I will bring our stuff here. There won't be much." Before they left Nessa gave Caithlin a hug and kiss on the cheek before stepping out the door. As they started on their way she said, "So, to the docks we go then."
With a nod Cameron accepts the cake, all wrapped up in a napkin. As they others start to file out he promises Caithlin quietly, "We'll find who is behind this nightmare and stop them. You have my word on that."
Outside the house he fishes out his pendant, a butterfly artfully crafted from agate stone, and displays it proudly where all can see. It was something his uncle Milon had given him, there were thousands like it but this one was his. It was the last thing he had to remind him of family and he normally kept it close to his heart.
As they get closer to the docks Cameron keeps his eyes and ears open, looking for anything unusual. Like a group of gendarmes or tearful street walkers.
Izkrael keep his eyes open looking for any potential threat while he travels along with Cameron and Nessa.
"What this Drexell looks like?", he asks his companions.
As they reached the docks Nessa began watching for streetwalkers and any sign of gendarmes, particularly Drexell. She walked beside Uncle Izzy and described Drexell to him. Spotting Cameron pull out his holy symbol and wear it Nessa realized that it might help if she did the same. She reached into her pouch and pulled out a Calistrian holy symbol made of wood and put it's chain around her neck. Once she put the holy symbol on Nessa noticed a nice piece of ass ahead of them and was too busy watching it...him to notice much of anything.
The man laughs when Alayna asks her question
Well, you maybe won't believe it, but I'm sea-sick. I've never been much on a ship, only as long as needed to get my money for "finding" new sailors.
He bents and searches his accomplice's pockets
There's some money here, not much, but as we already brawled, maybe it's high time we revel, at his expense? Sorry for your hat, by the way, I aimed my sap at your head but you moved at the bad- or good, depending on your point of view-moment.
Smiling at the downed man
Never liked him anyway, he was too quick to lose his temper, and enjoyed inflicting pain. Do you really seek a ship to get on?
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The docks are now very far from the Gold Goblin, maybe only a fifteen minutes walk. Houses are damaged by the salty wind, lights are scarce, and people tend to move by small groups, with good or bad intentions. Everything around you seems to stink of fishes.
Cameron and other tells Izkrael that Drexell is a middle aged half elf, with a harsh face and broken nose. He's a sergeant amongs the Gendarmes, the "elite" law enforcement of Riddleport. From what Cameron can tell you, he is as honest as he can be, but not very diplomatic.
Cameron spots some streetwalkers, two of them, near a street corner.
After he gets the description, Izkrael starts looking around him in search of someone matching Drexell's appearance.
Seems like everyone has a holy symbol...
Izkrael moves closer to Nessa: "Hey, I've never noticed that symbol you have there...Is it the holy symbol of Calistria? I like it.".
Reminder: I need to get me a holy symbol when I'll have time.
Snapped out of her trance by Izkrael's question Nessa took a moment and replied, "Yes it is Uncle Izzy. I don't generally wear it, but I do carry one should I need to be representing the temple."
Presumably flanked by the others, Cameron walks over to the girls and takes his hat off by way of greeting and says, "Ladies. I've heard you'all have been swept up in a terrible waking dream. The sort of where poor Lula doesn't get to wake up. It might surprise you to hear it, but even in this town there are those that care. We'd like to try and help, and see that whoever did it, doesn't hurt anyone else. It's just not right for one so young to get their thread pulled out of the grand tapestry." They would be able to tell that he's a little nervous in his delivery, but earnest in intent.
He waits to see if they have anything to say.
The two prostitutes seem cautious- but who would blame them in theses conditions?- but the oldest speaks, with anger and fear in her voice
That's nice words. But we had a lifetime of experience showing that nice words can hide dirty deeds. Who are you, and who sends you?
Izkrael nods in agreement while Cameron speaks, showing his support to the man's words. Once he notices the two street-walkers are armed, he focuses his attention the women's faces to try to catch even the slightest glimpse of aggression. He stands ready to intervene if the women act aggressively, moving next to Cameron to ensure to be able to act before it's too late and other blood is spilled.
I can't blame them for carrying weapons with them. Their is a dangerous job, and this is a dangerous city. Especially after the news about the prostitutes' murders.
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