Louis and Mel have some trouble making inquiries due to the need to be discrete. It seems that most of the people in Abigail's building are either out or are themselves very discrete. It isn't until they reach the bottom floor that they strike gold. An elderly woman answers a door on the ground floor and proves to be the building's owner.
"Oh you're friends with dear Abigail?" She asks, "Well that's so nice. I've always thought the poor girl needs to have more friends. What do you think of her new man? I like him, he seems like a proper gentleman. Always says hello when he comes past. I really hope the two of them work out. She's not had the greatest luck with men in the past, it's such a shame. That lovely red hair! If I'd had hair like that in my youth I'd have had suitors on all sides. Oh, before I forget, could you take this up to her room for me dearies? It was left behind by the men who brought her new carpet and I thought she could get it back to them. Looks expensive. Now what she wants with a new carpet I don't know, but maybe the old one got stained. It looked dirty when they took it out yesterday..."
The garrulous old woman has plenty more to say and takes quite some time to say it, but the badge she hands over is interesting - a clenched fist holding six arrows.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As Evie and Reiko leave the building Reiko is able to follow a set of bootprints leading out of the modest apartment. Unfortunately they are the worn boots of a workman, with nothing distinctive about them at all and she loses the trail at the first crossroads the pair come to - the ground is simply crossed too often by too many shoes for her to have a chance without a remarkable stroke of luck or magical assistance.
With that lead gone cold the pair head to the nearest station of the City Guard - the grandly named 'Defenders of Freedom'. The Watch Sargent is symapthetic but distant until you mention that the target is the Merry Maid herself at which point he takes more notice.
"Really? The Merry Maid has been kidnapped? I love that place! Of course, we'll get onto it immediately. Now, could you ladies tell me what happened? Why were you going to see Miss Abigail?"
Unfortunately he now seems keen to get as much information as possible - and you are his first sources!
Louis looks over the badge carefully.
"I'm sure I've seen something like this before, but I just can't place it," he says with a frown.
"We are all old friends," Reiko says to the watch officer. "We had planned a girls' night out once Abigail finished her shift. We got to the Merry Maid early to prepare for the evening, which is when we discovered what had happened! Oh, it's a travesty, sir! Our poor dear Abby!"
The watch subjects Reiko and Evie to a spectacularly thorough investigation. Clearly the Sargent meant what he said about not sparing any effort. Although neither woman gets any particularly confrontational vibes from the process it is exacting, thorough and repeated twice with copious note taking. If it were not for the fact that Reiko is an expert of half truths and plausible lies it is almost certain that something would have slipped - but she prevails, keeping all the (lying) ducks in a (false) row and Evie is far too good to mess up such an excellent lead.
It takes over an hour before the Watch are done and the women leave with thanks and a promise that the Defenders of Freedom will do everything they can. How much that is will be another question, but at least someone cares about Abigail.
Once they step away from the station and the coast is clear, well out of earshot, Evangeline lets out a long breath, her expression returning to its usual composed state. Turning to Reiko with a mixture of admiration and relief, she says, "Reiko, you were brilliant in there. That required a deft touch, and you handled it with finesse! Hook. Line. Sinker."
As they walk, Evangeline’s mind is already racing ahead. "Now, we need to move quickly and use the time the watch has bought us. Let's circle back and see if Louis or Melenae have uncovered anything new. With the City Guard on the case, we'll have to be even more cautious about our investigation to avoid any... entanglements."
Reiko doffs her elaborate hat and bows. ”You are too kind, Evvie. Lead the way!”
Mel listens to the woman's ramblings paying attention to the little details where she can, but when she hands over the badge, she is pretty nonplussed.
"Many thanks, Miss. Were these workers wearing any type of uniform - what carpet company were they working for?" Mel asks. "We could always return it to them for Abigail if she is so busy."
After the woman replies, Mel passes on her goodbyes and turns to Louis, nodding back up the stairs away from the nosy neighbour's apartment.
"I have a really bad feeling about this carpet company yesterday."
It takes Melenae and Louis quite some time to figure out where they have seen the insignia before, but they eventually recall a minor incident when Senator Trand first arrived in Almas and some of his servants were waylaid when they wandered into a district that they, unknowingly, didn't belong in. No great harm was done but you recall a name 'Erastil's Fist' and are fairly sure that they operate out of the Tamuth district of the city - an unpleasant and generally neglected area of the city which has resisted the efforts of more than one Supreme Elect to 'clean it up'. Ultimately the money and political capital are both lacking for a project like that.
By the time the 'friends' have been door to door, endured the lengthy ramblings of the owner and combed their memories for the significance of the badge Reiko and Evie have returned from their interrogation with the Watch. It is now the middle of the afternoon and the streets are starting to become busier as children escape their lessons and citizens throng the streets to complete their last business of the day.
Evangeline rubs her temple as she tries to dredge up the details from her memory. "Tamuth district... yes, that's it," she finally says. "When Councillor Trand first arrived in Almas, there was that minor scuffle. Some of his staff wandered into that district, a rougher part of town they clearly weren't familiar with. They ran afoul of some local toughs. Nothing too serious happened, thankfully, but it was a clear message that they had crossed into someone else's turf."
She looks at Reiko, her expression turning serious. "It's not a place where the city guard has much sway, or at least not enough to tackle the deep-rooted issues there."
Louis also elaborates on the 'nice rug merchants' that were seen leaving Abigail's flat and the likely probability that the halfling was wrapped in the soiled rug they were happy to dispose of.
"It looks like we may have to venture into the no-man's land of the Tamuth district," he concludes. "Does anyone have any contacts in that neighborhood?"
"No, but I'm good at making fast friends," Reiko says with a smirk.
Evangeline's mind races, sifting through her myriad of contacts and connections. "There is someone," she finally says. "I know someone who works in The Velvet Veil in the Tamuth district. Not the most savory of connections, but she's well-informed and has her ear to the ground. If anyone knows the ins and outs of what's happening in Tamuth, it would be her."
She pauses, weighing her next words carefully. "Her name is Sariel. She's discreet, savvy, and owes me a favor or two. We can make a trip over there and see if she can provide us with any information about Abigail's situation or the movements of these rug merchants."
Evangeline hesitates as she glances around at her companions, her expression turning resolute. "We should be prepared for a rough reception, though. The Tamuth district doesn't take kindly to outsiders, especially those who come asking questions. We'll need to tread lightly."
"I'm always ready to play rough," Reiko says, tugging on the straps of her gauntlets.
Evangeline's lips curl up in a knowing smirk as she glances at Reiko, her eyes gleaming with amusement and camaraderie. "Oh, I do not doubt that Reiko," she responds with a wink.
"Just make sure that charming hat doesn't get too mussed up in the process. We wouldn't want to ruin your impeccable sense of style, now would we?" she quips, her tone playfully sarcastic.
"Of course it's a brothel," Louis says with a sigh. He considers the possible fallout. "We need to be discreet about this. To be publicly seen visiting such a place will only give our enemies a weapon to use against us." He thinks a little longer. "Could we arrange to meet this Miss Sariel somewhere other than her workplace?"
Evangeline casts a teasing glance at Louis, unable to resist the opportunity for a playful jab. "Louis, darling, I never took you for the shy type," she says, her voice dripping with mock surprise. "But don't worry, we wouldn't want to tarnish your pristine reputation by dragging you through the doors of The Velvet Veil. I'll see if Miss Sariel can meet us elsewhere, somewhere more... palatable for your sensibilities."
While fully understanding what Louis meant with his caution, she flashes him a mischievous smile, clearly enjoying the gentle ribbing, before adding, "After all, we can't have rumors starting about you, can we? The high society of Almas might never recover."
"Oh, Miss Vale," Louis replies with a smirk. "'Shy' has never been a word used to describe my sensibilities ... until you, of course."
He considers the subject.
"But while I may personally feel that Ladies and Gentlemen of Companionship should carry a vaulted position in society, my opinion is not shared with the majority of those in power and influence. So while they may partake of such company in secret, they denigrate and belittle those who do so openly. And until society is changed for the better in that regard, we must be circumspect in how we interact with such people."
"While I don't have your experience with Ladies and Gentlemen of Companionship Louis, I concur that we should do this as... discretely as possible." Melenae adds. "You should know Evangeline, just how many problems such things can cause."
She doesn't add the number of times she's had to dispatch her colleague to deal with such things. A couple of time she hadn't even told Evangeline why - just that it needed doing. That was why they always worked so well together.
"If worse comes to worse then a little disguise should do the trick." She says slowly. "We don't need to be foolproof, just plausibly deniable. I don't imagine anyone would expect to see any of us in that part of town so the risk should be low. You may need to lose your hat Reiko, temporarily of course!" The last bit is important - Melenae has learned to never joke about Reiko's hats. Such things are serious business.
"So Evie, get a message to your contact and if we can find a safe meeting place, let's do it."
Reiko feigns shock at Melenae's suggestion. "Oh, dear! Perish the thought! What am I without my fashionable accesories?"
She shakes her head and sighs. "We all must make sacrifices for the good of the nation, I suppose. Very well. If needs must, the hat will stay at home."
Evangeline listens to the discussion, her expression a careful balance of amusement and thoughtfulness. Addressing Louis first, she nods in agreement. "You're right, Louis. Societal double standards are quite a tightrope. But discretion is my middle name, so I'll handle the arrangements with Sariel."
Turning to Melenae, Evangeline adds with a slight grin, "And Mel, I'm well aware of the complications these... encounters can cause. Don't worry; I've got a few tricks up my sleeve."
Finally, she faces Reiko, her eyes twinkling with mirth. "Reiko, I'm sure the nation will somehow endure the temporary absence of your fashionable hat. But if it's any consolation, I'm sure you'll manage to be just as striking without it. And yes, plausible deniability is our aim here. We'll keep it low-profile."
Evangeline suggests a meeting in a secluded section of one of Almas' public parks. A quiet bench tucked away in a garden or a less-traveled walking path should provide both privacy and the open air needed to avoid feeling too conspicuous.
Unfortunately making arrangements to meet with a Lady of Negotiable Affection, particularly if one isn't planning to pay, is a slow task. Even with Evangeline emphasising the urgency of the meet the short note she receives in return simply says Valor Park, fourth bell. Tomorrow.
As the meeting rolls around Evangeline and anyone else who chooses linger in the park are met by a tall dark skinned woman with the wide almond-shaped eyes of vudrani heritage. Her eyelashes are spectacularly long, although largely hidden beneath a dull coloured wrap which covers her whole head. Seeing Evangeline she nods slightly and heads for the appointed bench, sitting with precise movements.
"So, Fixer. It has been a long time since we have spoken. I assume you have a favour you would like to ask?" In contrast to her exotic looks, her accent is almas common and her tone is neither friendly nor unfriendly - purely business in fact. "I am a busy woman so lets not mess around with empty words and false flattery"
Evangeline, understanding the value of reciprocity in these matters, reaches into her bag before beginning the conversation. She pulls out a small, exquisitely wrapped package. "Sariel, before we discuss business, I brought you something." She places the package on the bench between them. "It's a selection of fine chocolates from Zirnakaynin – a rare treat here. I remember you mentioning your fondness for them once."
She then proceeds, her tone serious, "I need your help with a sensitive matter. It's about an acquaintance of ours, Abigail from The Merry Maid. She's gone missing, and there are signs of foul play. We suspect it might involve Erastil's Fist or someone in their circles. We're looking for any information on her recent activities, particularly any new individuals in her life. Your insights could be crucial here."
Evangeline pauses, allowing Sariel to take in the information. "I understand this is a big ask. In return, I can offer you a pass to The Golden Lyre, the new exclusive establishment in town. It's not easy to get into, but I have my ways. Your discretion and assistance would be greatly appreciated." Her expression is earnest, showing her respect for Sariel's time and the importance of the favor she's asking.
Sariel accepts the chocolates with a measured nod and a sharp glance at Evangeline. She is too well schooled in business to believe that any gift comes for free.
"The Fist have become more bold recently." She agrees, tugging gently at the wrapping paper. "They were nobodies, but now they move with less caution. Boys wear their emblem with pride and the district fears them. I do not know exactly why but they seem to have power behind them now - real power. They are pawns in someone else's game I think. Kidnapping a public figure like your friend... that tells me I am right. It is too big a move for them."
She stops and looks Evangeline dead in the eye. "Involving yourself here is a risk Fixer. You will not be able to ward off these people with a whispered word in the right ear. I hope your tien friend over there is as capable as she looks. You pay so well for favours that I'd be sad to lose you as a client. As for your request..." She pauses a moment. "Send one of your friends tonight, I'll have them booked in at the tenth bell. The pretty boy or the dark-haired girl. Not your muscle and not you. We don't want anyone making connections do we?" Sariel arches one manicured eyebrow in amusement.
"As for the price, you can keep your pass. I'll tell your friend tonight what you owe me."
She leans in to kiss Evangeline's cheek in friendly fashion and then stands up and leaves, brushing past Louis and letting her fingers drag slowly across his chest as she goes.
Evangeline watches Sariel leave with an expression of contemplation, her mind already turning over the information provided and the implications of what was said. She then turns to Louis and Melenae, her gaze unwavering.
Rising, she walks over to meet them and fills them in on the specifics in case it isn't clear. "We need to take her warning seriously. The Fist's newfound boldness suggests they're being backed by someone with significant influence. I fear this isn't just a street gang we're dealing with anymore," she states, her tone carrying a hint of concern.
Looking at Louis with a smile, she straightens up his shirt and adds, "Louis, my dear, it seems you're booked for the tenth bell tonight.
Sariel will have more information for us then. We must keep a low profile. We need to understand the larger game at play."
"Pimping me out, Miss Vale?" Louis questions with a smirk and a raised eyebrow. "I hope she at least offers me a nice dinner."
His expression turning more serious. "Hopefully, she at least has a peanut or two to lead us further along into this rabbit hole."
Sariel can be seen there, wrapped in an opaque robe which hints but does not reveal. Her eyes are large and dark, made all the more so by make up which seems to emphasise her exotic looks. Louis meanwhile finds himself at the bar where he purchases a mug of uninspired ale and tries not to touch anything he doesn't have to. It takes a few more minutes before he catches Sariel's eye from above and she gestures him upstairs.
The room Louis finds himself in shortly afterwards is sparse, although two or three lengths of red silk have been hung to give it a more 'exotic' air. Sariel, meanwhile, perches on the bed and looks Louis up and down.
"You're pretty enough that I'd probably provide you with the usual service as well if you want." She says, her voice alarming normal and a complete contrast to her exotic looks. "But you're here for information. I have it, and I have the price you need too."
She pauses, checking that she has Louis' full attention, and then smiles slyly. "The Madam has a record book, it's purple and quite thick. I want it and once I have it I'll tell you where the Fist have your red-headed friend. Because they do have her."
She grins and then stands up, slipping her robe off one dusky shoulder. "So? What will it be?"
"It appears that you have the advantage of me, Miss Sariel," Louis replies with a conciliatory nod of his head. "If you'll tell me where to find this book, then I will see to it that it arrives in your hands."
He gazes around the simply appointed room.
"And I would imagine that to keep up appearances, I should stay here for an appropriate amount of time." He smiles. "We wouldn't want anyone to think that I was here for nefarious reasons, now would we?" He loosens the collar of his shirt. "Now what shall we do to occupy our time?"
Some time later, as Louis is preparing to depart Sariel informs him that the book she wants can be found in the Madam's office, just off the main entranceway. Taking some time to reconnoiter the area Louis returns to the bar to observe the madam's comings and goings before attempting to charm the bartender into giving up some information.
Surprisingly the bartender resists the magic but, apparently lonely, falls completely for Louis' more conventional charms, so much so that when Louis tries again to weave a little magic into his words he is utterly smitten and agrees to a private tryst in the nearest private space - which just so happens to be the madams office.
After their trysting is done Louis the Lascivious proposes that the barkeeper leaves first, suffering a momentary pang as he does so. Damn, he thinks to himself, I don't even know the man's name. This thought doesn't dissuade him from his plan though and, left alone in the office, conducts a swift search that turns up nothing.
A second search for magic is more productive - locating a magical bookmark in an otherwise humdrum book. Once the bookmark is removed the illusion falls away and Louis finds that he is holding the madam's purple book - exactly as asked.
Slipping back through the crowd is an exercise in luck, but fortune favours Louis as an argument breaks out in the main room - distracting the madam and giving him a chance to return to Sariel. After lingering awkwardly until she finishes with her next client he slips back inside.
"Now where are they holding Abigail?" He asks, holding up the book but not handing it over.
"At their 'clubhous' across the street." Sariel replies, disdain clear in her tone. "They occasionally hire some of us for a night and Liz was there last night. Said they had a redhead there but she wasn't part of the entertainment. She told me one of them bragged about 'a big payday coming' and promised he'd take away from all this. Same old story." The woman suddenly looks very tired. "Your best bet would be early morning or later in the afternoon when they have a lot of people out. Now, my payment."
Louis hands the book over and departs safely, thus concluding the most exciting night of misadventure he's had since... last week!
Arriving at the out-of-the-way dive tavern that had been agreed upon to be their meeting place, Louis quickly scans the room before joining his compatriots at the corning table they'd claimed.
Once the requisite drink had been ordered, he lowers his voice and brings the others up to date on what he'd learned.
"So there's a good chance that Abigail is the 'redhead' that they're holding there," he concludes. "So now we need to decide how we're going to retrieve her without creating too much of a disturbance and shedding copious amounts of blood - more specifically, ours or Abigail's."
Melenae, who has been nursing the same drink for most of the evening, frowns.
"We don't know enough about this place or the people. I say we start early and take a look at the 'clubhouse'. Then it'll be a matter of finding the time and place to go in. Perhaps we can come up with some sort of distraction, pay a few urchins to toss stones or something like that. Then we go in quick and get Abigail out. Even if it isn't her then we should do it - we shouldn't leave a young woman in there regardless. But maybe a disguise? We shouldn't do this as us, it could backfire much too easily."
Evangeline has had many drinks, but they are not alcoholic. Instead, she's wired from multiple energy-infused beverages with her foot furiously tapping away as her mind schemes.
Evangeline nods thoughtfully, absorbing the information and suggestions from her colleagues. "A reconnaissance mission first is essential. We need to understand the layout, the security, and the routine of this clubhouse. Knowledge is our first weapon."
She then addresses the idea of a distraction. "A simple distraction might work, but we need to ensure it's effective enough to pull their attention away without escalating the situation. We want them looking the other way, not coming out with weapons drawn."
She knows that she and Melenae are the stealthiest in the group. "Mel, your skills in blending in and moving unseen could be pivotal here. We might need you to scout the interior. We need your tactical thinking in planning our entry and exit. Test your plan to sneak in and do some recon. We need a solid plan that covers all our bases."
Evangeline’s eyes narrow slightly as she ponders the idea of a disguise. "Disguises could provide us the anonymity we need. We could pose as patrons or perhaps as suppliers. Anything that gets us through the door without raising suspicions. We'll need to blend in seamlessly, so leave that part to me," she says, her tone indicating she's already visualizing the perfect cover for each of them.
Turning to Louis and Reiko, "You two, with your charm, you might be able to gather information from the locals or the staff inside. We need someone who can get people talking, find out if they've seen Abigail, or if there’s been any unusual activity around the clubhouse."
Reiko nods and points to herself. "Just leave it to me!" she says with a wink. She adjusts her jaunty hat as she heads off to hobnob with the locals.
Throughout the day, Evangeline works diligently, ensuring each disguise is not only convincing but also comfortable enough for each team member to move and act freely. She pays close attention to the small details, knowing that in their line of work, it's often the little things that make or break a disguise.
She decides to disguise Reiko as a tough, seasoned mercenary, a role that complements her natural assertiveness and physical capabilities. The objective is to make her look like someone who might be seeking work in a rougher part of town like the Tamuth district. Evangeline styles Reiko’s hair in a practical way, pulling it back into a low, no-nonsense ponytail that suggests functionality over fashion. The makeup is minimal, aiming for a weather-beaten, outdoor look. Evangeline adds some smudges to give Reiko a slightly gruff and seasoned appearance, as if she’s been traveling or involved in physical work. For clothing, she opts for a durable leather armor, worn and scuffed at the edges to imply a history of use in skirmishes. The armor is paired with tough, functional boots and a belt equipped with pouches and loops for holding various tools or weapons. Evangeline adds a few accessories to enhance the mercenary look – a simple, unadorned cloak that has seen better days, a dull sword to be strapped visibly to Reiko’s belt. The idea is to suggest capability and readiness for physical confrontation.
"There, you look every bit the rugged mercenary. Just remember, the scowl is optional but the hat is not. It stays at home this time, I'm afraid." Evangeline quips with a playful grin, admiring Reiko's transformed appearance.
For Louise, Evangeline devises a character that leverages his natural charm and friendliness but in a less conspicuous manner. She decides to transform him into a small-time merchant – someone who might be visiting the Tamuth district for business but not someone who would attract significant attention. She slightly alters Louis's hairstyle to appear less refined than his usual perfectly coiffed look. She messes it up just enough to give a somewhat messy, hardworking appearance, adding a bit of matte product to reduce its usual shine. She uses makeup to subtly age him, adding faint lines around his eyes and mouth to depict someone who has spent a good amount of time worrying about their business. She also darkens his hair a shade to make him look more ordinary. She chooses practical, unremarkable clothing that a tradesman might wear – a simple shirt, a vest that's seen better days, and trousers that are durable but not new. She adds a few patches to suggest the clothes have been repaired rather than replaced. To complete the look, she gives Louis a flat working-class cap, and a leather satchel that could be used for carrying samples. She also adds a prop like a ledger, something a tradesman might carry for his records.
"Now, who's this dashing yet unassuming tradesman? Just don't let the charm slip through too much, or you'll blow our cover," she teases, giving Louis an approving nod.
For Melenae's disguise, Evangeline considers her elegant and refined appearance and decides to create a look that would be a stark contrast, yet believable within the context of their mission. She opts to transform Melenae into a traveling merchant's assistant, a role that would allow her to move around without drawing much attention but still keep her poise and confidence. She styles Melenae's thick, wavy dark brown hair into a practical, low bun, tucking it under a simple cloth cap to downplay its luxurious appearance. She also adds a few strands of grey to give an impression of a hardworking life. She uses makeup to subtly alter Melenae's olive complexion, adding a hint of sun exposure and fatigue to depict someone who works outdoors. Her delicate facial features are toned down to blend in more with the common folk. Evangeline selects attire that is functional yet unremarkable – a plain tunic and trousers, worn and a bit faded, coupled with sturdy, practical boots. She adds a simple belt with pouches, suggesting a role that requires carrying small goods or tools. To complete the look, she gives Melenae a worn shoulder bag, typical of someone who might be delivering or carrying goods for a merchant.
"Melenae, you look convincingly like you've been managing inventory rather than ballrooms. Remember, your strength is in your subtlety now," Evangeline remarks with a hint of encouragement, ensuring Melenae feels comfortable in her new guise.
For her own disguise, Evangeline opts for a character that would allow her to observe and interact without drawing undue attention. She decides on the persona of a scribe, someone who could be expected to be seen in various places without arousing suspicion. Evangeline transforms her hairstyle to appear more mundane. She pins her hair up in a tight, no-nonsense bun, a style befitting a clerk focused more on her duties than on fashion. A few strands are deliberately let loose to give a slightly disheveled, overworked appearance. She uses a lighter touch with the makeup, aiming for a more natural look that downplays her striking features. A touch of dark circles under her eyes suggests long hours spent working, and she tones down the color on her lips to a more muted hue. She chooses a simple, modest dress, a shade duller than the current fashion trend, with a hemline practical for walking. The dress is paired with a plain shawl and sensible shoes, reinforcing the image of a working woman.
After completing her own transformation, Evangeline glances in the mirror and mutters to herself, "The things we do for information. Let's hope this clerk can write a successful end to our story."
"I just hope that no one that knows me recognizes me," Louis says with a chuckle as he examines himself in a looking glass that Evie has provided. "My pride would never make a recovery."
He then heads out to scrounge up whatever tidbits of information regarding the Fist's doings.
Mel allows Evvie to go to town, knowing the woman is in her element taking the lead in such elaborate disguises.
Looking down at her own disguise when all is said and done, she tries to get in role and plays around with her speech a little and gestures towards herself. "Oh great, look what we 'ave 'ere then."
She then follows suit from Louis' cue and heads out to sneak in and do some recon from the inside, keeping out of any direct conversations where she can.
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The Fist's 'clubhouse' is the upper floor of a small scale rug merchant rather than the traditional tavern. Exactly why this is, none of you know, but it does make it much easier to enter the lower part of the building multiple times through the day.
Mel goes first just after the shop opens for the day, calling to enquire whether the shop would be interested in purchasing any of her employer's wares. Her work on her accent, combined with Evie's sterling work with her disguise do the trick and she spends half an hour hammering out (fictitious, but plausible) details with the shopkeeper. This gives her plenty of time to observe the initial comings and goings and by the time she leaves she has ascertained two important facts.
1. There is no entrance to the upper floors from inside the shop.
2. Based on the noise from upstairs, early morning is not a time that the Fists of Erastil favor.
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Louis's time and effort eventually pay off as he negotiates a sale with some of the small street stalls near the back of the clubhouse. Its presence near the Lion's Den makes for an easy conversation starter, especially for a tired man longing for a little company and Louis is more than convincing enough that one of the stall-holders pays him a little over the odds with a sly wink.
"Ask for Nareena when you get there." He suggests with a smile. "She'll shake the dust out of your trousers. Gotta love redheads am I right?"
It only takes a little more discussion of redheads and their characters before the man mentions. "Saw a new girl in the street yesterday, gorgeous red hair and she was cursin' up a storm. Definitely on somethin' though - she had a sheet and one shoe, not a stitch more. One of the lads from the club above Sahara's came down and managed to convince her to go back inside. Seemed real sweet on 'er. Good luck to 'im. Toby's a good lad - deserves a nice girl."
The next stallholder has similar sentiments. "Toby is a good boy. He'd have made something of himself if he'd been born anywhere else." She opinions loudly. "I've told him time and again that he needs to go to one of them schools, learn his letters properly and get a decent trade but he's too loyal to that old man of 'is. Won't let 'im go, no matter that the old fart just sits about and drinks all day."
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As Reiko makes her way around the district, asking questions and trying to gather information, she finds herself being followed by a hard-bitten pair, one man and one woman, both of whom make no pretense of hiding their interest in her. As a connoisseur of such things however Reiko is certain that their interest is professional, rather than prurient.
"Heard you askin' questions." The woman says as the two close in on Reiko at the entrance to a quiet alleyway. "Don't get strangers round 'ere much, askin' questions. Some people need to be taught'a keep their trap shut."
The man behind her draws a cudgel and the woman has some lovely knuckledusters large and solid rings on both hands.
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Evie's own hard work doesn't bare fruit until late in the day when, just as she's considering leaving, an older man comes up to her.
"Excuse me miss, are you a scribe?" He asks, his diction clean and well educated although his hands shake badly. "I'm a lawyer locally and a client has just come to me quite urgently. His daughter is unwell and they have no money for a priest. They want me to draw up a will but my usual lad is away visiting his aunt. I confess I saw you earlier today when I was getting my lunch and I asked after you. Would you be kind enough to come to my office in an hour? I'll pay you of course, on top of the standard fee."
The man seems truthful as far as Evie can tell and she vaguely recalls seeing him earlier in the day, which lends a certain amount of veracity to his story.
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"Oh? And I suppose you think you'd be the ones to do so? Don't make me laugh!" Reiko says, a grim grin on her face. She casually raises her glaive and makes a show of testing its balance.
Evangeline regards the man with a mixture of curiosity and cautious analysis. His request, while seemingly mundane, could be a window into local happenings or connections that might prove helpful. Or it could be a trap if she had messed up their disguises somehow and they were on to her.
"Of course, sir," Evangeline responds, her voice steady and professional, perfectly in line with her disguise. "I'd be happy to assist with your needs. It's unfortunate to hear about your client's situation. I'll make sure the documents are prepared with all due care and diligence."
She gives the man a reassuring nod. "I'll meet you at your office in an hour. Could you please provide the address?"