[IC] The Legend of Heroes: Tales of the World

[Fox of Spades]

It was over and Lady Vasco was actually happy with the results?

Lucien beamed brightly and Xan smiled. It was from over, but they were one step closer to cracking the case and that was a good thing. Really, it was amazing how they had gotten this far, and none of them had been thrown out either. It was an achievement in itself.

"You are a pretty face, Lucy dear. But I don't think you fit the role we were talking about. As soon as you open that mouth of yours... oh, it is dreadful, dear. We do however have another role which might be more... fitting to your talents. I assume you can at least scrub a toilet, yes?

Oh...at least he wasn't being thrown out, yeah? Lucien winced a little, his pride bruised. So, she hadn't liked his brilliant jokes and punchlines? Well...this was still better than getting thrown up so he swallowed before grinning at Lady Vasco. "Thank you for this great opportunity." He noticed the sympathetic glances thrown his way but laughed it off. At least he wouldn't have to wait on guys now, but it was a shame, he wouldn't get to show off his dress and Selan's great work. Oh, oh, at least he was getting a uniform too.

Xan was glad that things were going as smooth as they were but the idea of a test run made the nervous feeling return. Plus, Lady Vasco would be splitting them up...at least she'd get to be with Aria and they had Dylan too. Marcus and Selan would be together as well, but the thought of Thunderhawk and Lucien being isolated made her worry a little.

Lady Vasco gave instructions then left them with a woman with striking white hair.

Lucien gave a cheerful wave and Xan nodded her head in greeting. "It's nice to meet you."

[Pachamac]

Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond: ???

“’Simply eating and staring at tits.’ ‘Incompetent.’ Boy, Heather, you’re so sweet. Almost too sweet. You could probably put Mordie out of her job with such delicate charm like that,” Bart rolled his eyes, hanging his head off the side of the chair and swivelling it around and around and around. “Kenneth certainly didn’t hire you for your personality…”

His chair finally stopped, and as he lazily gazed at the upside down world behind him, his eyes got bigger as they focused on one particular monitor, to the certain image presented back to him. A picture of two chocolate mountains and a white valley running in-between, with the rest of the mountains wrapped in tight white cloth and-

“Oh hey, it’s Mordie.” Bart loudly slurped more of his noodles up, burping. “And she’s with those ladies you seem to be so interested in. Why not do what she’s doing and go talk with them, if they bother you that much? Honestly, I’ve got the fort down. These machines ain’t no big complicated thing to keep track of. Look. Pictures, pictures and pictures of other people doing big rich things. Whatever.”

His chair started swivelling around yet again. “Go flash them some of that O’Rourke charm or something. And get yourself a tea. I mean, I would, but… y’know. Walking.”

---

Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond: Outside the Conference Room

The interview was a success. By some small miracle, all of them had managed to pass the head matron’s inquisitive questions, enough that they were now able to move more freely inside the building and explore further in. They were still under watch, by both the Lady Vasco and the white haired woman Marcus met in the casino called Mordie, but now they could explore further inside the building, to see if they could identify any particular clues that might lead to where Estelle and Josette were.

Marcus looked over his shoulder as the rest of his group departed behind them, being led away by Mordie to parts unknown, whilst he and Selan followed Iliana. His gaze discreetly looked up at another overhead camera, and he winced. It wasn’t enough to just be out of sight of any guards or guests… with the cameras as well… he could only hope the others wouldn’t do or say anything in their presence…

He renewed his focus on Vasco before them, as she guided them down the long, long corridor, Selan walking by his side, showing the confidence they would need to keep going. He closed his eyes. There were fewer people as reliable as Selan to have by his side, and yet he wondered. Wondered if it wouldn’t have been better for him to go alone, but… of course that wasn’t an option…

At last, the walking stopped, with the trio coming to a halt in front of another, with another set of two guards in front. Vasco stopped, looking to each, with a silent nod returned by both. She then effortlessly turned around to Selan and Marcus.

“Wait here. I shall not be long, and then after that we can continue.” She said curtly.

“Yes, Lady Vasco.” Marcus replied. The doors opened briefly, and Vasco departed, with the doors closing shut, leaving Selan and Marcus alone with the two suited, sunglasses wearing guards in front.

[Rexcalibur]

Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond - Outside the Conference Room

Mordie's smile widened into a close-eyed toothy beam as Iliana passed her by and left her with some duties. The Lady hadn't even stopped for a chitchat, instead taking off towards some stairs, quickly followed by the lady that spotted her as well as the Singing Sensation. Mordie merely blinked at the Lady's departure, pointing a finger at her own nose. "Umm? Lady V? Ah don't - ah mean, ah mean ah do work here, but ah don't..."

"Hey, fancy meeting you here!"

Her attention was caught off guard by Aria, who exited the door next. "Ooh! Fancy, fancy indeed! Ah-"

Before she could speak any further, the rest followed after Aria, each giving Mordie a warm greeting as well. Except from a certain couple of them of course, but even then every lady here had such a friendly atmosphere about them. Mordie leaned forward, bowing, her dress becoming unzipped again. Casually she just zipped it back up as she straightened herself and spoke to the others. "Name's Mordie! Pleasure to meet ya!" She clasped her hands together. "Ah gotta show everyone 'round now, 'parently. We can chitchat while we walk, hm? Sooo let's go... this way."

She began waltzing in the direction opposite to where Iliana took Marcus and Selan. On her way passed the conference room's door, she gave Xandra and Thunderhawk a mighty slap to their rears. "Chin up, ladies!" Mordie turned around, walking backwards with her hands behind her back. "Lemme see ya walk with some sway, Fluffy! Surely you woulda charmed Lady V more if ya just got up n' walked a bit~ shake 'em hips like Feather Boa and Diane. Knock everyone out! 'n Miss Natural Beauty, c'mon, flash me a smile or somethin'! Lovely Blues next ta ya has a bit too much, ya can just take some of hers! Hehe!"

The group made their way up a single flight of stairs. Luckily for the Pride's ladies, Mordie kept her face forward, babbling on about how lovely everyone looked in the room. She slowed down as she passed the first room of the new floor and popped open the double doors, then closed them. "So this here is... some lobby. With a nice party goin' on inside. Whoops, sorry!" She did so again with the following two. "Here's a couple of massage rooms. Staff gets 'em free, yaknow. Oh, 'n there's an indoor pool over here! They've got at least two more."

Instead of continuing down the circular passageway, she ambled to the balcony and leaned her elbows over it. The beautiful fountain of the ground floor, bursting in alternating colors, lighted by decorative magispheres. Mordie gazed at the spectacle, bobbing her head to the live orchestra just one floor below them.

"At this rate the tour's only gonna last a few minutes. Once we hit the fifth floor, it's nothin' but... well, bedrooms for the ol' GD's patrons ta rent out." She giggled at her own explanation, drawing a finger to her lips. Then she whirled around to face the others again, her elbows atop the balcony now. "Ooh, does anyone here like dungeons? The whooole seventh floor is dedicated ta that. Ah think. Or was it the eighth floor? Hmmm. Oh, actually! Follow me!"

Further down the second floor lied another pair of double doors, which Mordie pushed right on open and dashed in. The lively jazz music bursting downstairs was louder than ever before; they had stepped into a 'room' - a balcony that directly oversaw the enormous room the party had passed by earlier, a lively arena-like room that overflowed with dressy nobles and scanty waitresses catering to their needs.

"This place is massive, innit? Thought ya might like this view." Mordie giggled some more before looking to the others, with the same beaming smile as before. "Well there are some more rooms upstairs, 'n a few nice bars every other floor. But ah don't wanna bore ya. Ah, uh, can answer any questions? Or take ya ta specific rooms or...? Ah geez, ah dunno where Lady V took the other two dolls or anythin', but she seemed quite impressed... oh, but everyone here's gorgeous, no doubt!

"Anyhoo. Y'all know each other or somethin'? Been waitin' to get employed here? The GD hasn't had its hirin' sign up for that long, so ah'm just curious." Mordie's eyes met with Aria's specifically. "'n where are ya other girlfriends? Yaknow, from the Pellagio? Not confident enough to sign up too?"

[Bunanigans]

The Grand Diamond - ???
It took a moment for Iliana's eyes to readjust to the lighting once the doors were closed. While the main part of the building was brightly lit, this particular room was quite dim. After all, access to this room was restricted. There was no reason to present it well.

Ah. Yes, there they were. The muscle, looking after the truck. They were all tensed up, wary of the newcomer to the room. She sighed. She didn't even flinch as she felt a hand rest against her shoulder. She did, however close the eye closest with mild annoyance, the other looking up to the large man before her.

"Hey pretty lady, did you get lost?" the man smiled threateningly. "You're not supposed to be here."

"Actually, I am. Lady Vasco, I'm here for the-"

"L-lady Vasco?" the man suddenly withdrew, realising his mistake. "I'm sorry, miss! They're in the back of the truck."

"Very good."

Five women. A black-haired girl, a brunette, two red-heads and a blue-haired girl. One of the reds and the blue were awake, the blue in particularly seeming particularly feisty. She was making a hell of a lot of noise for someone who was gagged. She was sure she recognised the still-unconcious redhead from somewhere.

Iliana effortlessly jumped up into the back. She headed towards the concious red-head first, who had turned her head to face her. She had been gagged too, although she at least had the decency to keep quiet. Hmm. "Pretty girl. Average height, small chest. Red hair's a bonus as always, shame it isn't longer..." she muttered. Throughout her observation she felt at her eyebrows, her jawline, her cheekbones, feeling the structure of her face as much as the redhead tried to jerk herself away. Despite everything, she was quite gentle with her examination. "Quite fit physically. What colour are her eyes?"

"Brown."

"Hmm." Iliana turned to the next without a word, continueing her commentary as she went. The blue was last, and somewhat predictably making the most fuss about it. Which to be fair wasn't difficult when three of them weren't awake. She continued her observation as always, although once she had finished Iliana lowered her voice to whisper in the girl's ear. Not as a threat, but as a warning.

"The more you struggle, the more they will try and break you. The mind can take only so much, yes?"

She had stood up again before the blue tried to headbutt her or something. "They are acceptable. I'll send down some people to pick them up and arrange payment. Thank you." And with a quick murmur in her earpiece, she was headed back out to her newest recruits.

"I apologise for the delay," she said to the two women outside. What a contrast, between these two who walked in of their own accord, and the five back there who had such a horrible fate instore for them. With little more than a thick wall and some air between the two contrasting worlds. She didn't like to dwell on it if she could help it. She began to stride forward once more. "If we can take one of the elevators then we can probably make up for lost time."

[Crescendo]

Los Paraisos : the Grande Diamond

Aria followed as Mordie led the way through the Grande Diamond, chatting almost nonstop as they stopped here and there to peek into some rooms. She couldn’t help but grin in response to the white-haired woman’s cheeriness, following along closely as the group moved through the first floors of the building while giving occasional glances back to Chirps and Lucy to make sure they were keeping up and not tripping over their shoes or dresses. Now that would be quite the sight.

"At this rate the tour's only gonna last a few minutes. Once we hit the fifth floor, it's nothin' but... well, bedrooms for the ol' GD's patrons ta rent out. Ooh, does anyone here like dungeons? The whooole seventh floor is dedicated ta that. Ah think. Or was it the eighth floor? Hmmm. Oh, actually! Follow me!"

“Dungeons? I guess some people are into that kind of thing, huh? Or is that where you put the rulebreakers?” Aria laughed in reply, half joking and made a mental note to ask around about these dungeons on the upper floors sometime later. Perhaps they were just there for… certain activities some rich people might have a thing for, but one could never be too careful. It certainly sounded ominous enough. Maybe check out the fifth floor as well, just case.

They finally stopped on the balcony conveniently overlooking the bustling party happening underneath, giving them a great view of the crowded floor. The lively jazz music playing had her tapping her toes to the beat. This was certainly one fun mission.

"Anyhoo. Y'all know each other or somethin'? Been waitin' to get employed here? The GD hasn't had its hirin' sign up for that long, so ah'm just curious." Mordie’s eyes met Aria’s. "'n where are ya other girlfriends? Yaknow, from the Pellagio? Not confident enough to sign up too?"

“That’s part of it, I guess.” Aria answered vaguely with a small laugh before continuing. “As for us applying so quickly, word does get around. It is one of the best establishments in the resort after all, and we certainly didn’t want to miss this big chance.”

Aria turned around from where she had been leaning on the railing of the balcony. “How about you, Mordie? How long have you been working here?” It was a genuine question. She had been quite surprised to find out the woman from the casino yesterday would be working here. “And how about your handsome friend from yesterday? Does he work here too?" The illusionist gave an amicable laugh. "After that exciting round yesterday I've been itching to play a good game of poker. Perhaps we could get together and play some cards sometime now that we might become coworkers." She paused in thought. "Speaking of work, what do you do here? We might be seeing quite a bit of each other from now on."

[Dannyel]

Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond

Dylan followed Mordie as she bustled through the Grande Diamond, moving at a brisk pace and keeping the commentary flowing all the way. It was quite a lot to focus on, especially with the way that he had to keep half his attention on walking in heels. His feet with starting to feel a little bit sore but he did his best to keep it from his face.

Thank the Gods! They finally stopped to chat, and Dylan used the balcony as an excuse to lean and take pressure off of his feet. Behind him he heard Mordie and Aria discussing the what it was like working at the Grande Diamond. He didn’t really have anything to add to the discussion, so he continued to watch the crowd below them. Wow, the clientele really was fancy.



Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond: ???

”Oh hey, it’s Mordie.” Bart loudly slurped more of his noodles up, burping. “And she’s with those ladies you seem to be so interested in. Why not do what she’s doing and go talk with them, if they bother you that much?

“Well,” she said as she adjusted the feeds so that she could see both Mordie’s and Lady Vasco’s group on side-by-side screens, “that wouldn’t work too well since the groups are splitting up. Besides, it’s not like I could have gone earlier. Lady Vasco does not like being interrupted during meetings. You really should know that by now.” 


She kept her eyes focused on the screen, mostly ignoring Mordie’s inept tour - the girl was rushing aimlessly through the Grande Diamond with no destination in mind - but instead focused on Lady Vasco. Especially when they stopped immediately outside the loading docks. She waited on baited breathe until Vasco emerged and took the two girls on. What had she been thinking? To take the strangers so close to the heart of their operations?

Honestly, I’ve got the fort down. These machines ain’t no big complicated thing to keep track of. Look. Pictures, pictures and pictures of other people doing big rich things. Whatever. Go flash them some of that O’Rourke charm or something.”

“No offense, Bart, but I really don’t trust you. I think I’m fine where I am.” Lady Vasco’s group was now in the elevator, perfectly safe, and so she turned her attention to Mordie’s group, who seemed to be aimlessly chatting.

[Fox of Spades]

This woman, she sure was talkative...

Xan gave a smile at the request before chuckling a little. The atmosphere had been so heavy moments ago, but now it was much lighter and while she didn't feel like talking, she appreciated the mood shift and tried to at least look happy. "Thank you for the tour, we appreciate it."

"Mhm, can't wait to see everything." Lucien bounced down the hall after everyone, though his movements were less upbeat than usual due to his itchy dress. How the hell did women move around in these things? He almost tripped several times but always managed to right himself, it was still a challenge though.

Mordie and Aria had a little chat as their guide showed them around, and Xan was happy to let her friend do all the talking. She simply tried to look excited while taking mental notes and trying to remember the important details Mordie would wind up mentioning. The dungeon in particular sounded important...what if they held prisoners there? It sounded unlikely but it was a dungeon, so it had to be worth a shot. Xan tried to remember the area, maybe she could do a little patrol later on if they were allowed to roam freely. If anyone asked, she could always say she was getting to know the place, couldn't she?

The woman asked if they knew each other and both summoner and metallurgist nodded their heads.

Aria asked Mordie a question and not longer after Lucien decided to ask one of his own. "Hey, you mentioned a dungeon, yeah? Do you keep bears in there?" Of all the questions...but at least he mentioned the dungeon. Maybe Mordie would laugh and go 'No, it's where we keep our hostages' or 'it's just a bar called The Dungeon' yeah right, well, Xan could dream.

[Pachamac]

Ding

Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond: Top Floor

The elevator came to a stop at the highest floor, the metal doors sliding apart to allow the two men within to freely exit. The rugged blond man, dressed head to toe in his stylish suit led the way with smoke billowing from his lips, whilst his guest, the comparatively dirty Neil Hunter, in his outfit and coat covered in dirty splotches followed behind, his eyes looking over the plush surroundings of the corridor adorned in gold and fanciful vases and pots, stunning floral arrangements and statues guiding the way along a vibrant red carpet to a set of double doors at the end. Double doors which led to the Grande Diamond’s most important room of all.

Kenneth stopped, rapping the door twice with his knuckles. It wasn’t long after a voice from within ushered the two to enter. Kenneth pried the doors open.

“Come in, come in,” A jovial man greeted the two men, his arms outstretched with wine glasses in each hand, as he took a step forward inside the gigantic fanciful room towards his two guests. The blonde haired, blue eyed man with sharp, handsome features strode across his fanciful, living quarters, from the leather chair behind his marvellous oak desk, to step across the bear skin rug and towards new companionship. With one gloved hand, the regally adorned man offered the grey haired, blue eyed kidnapper one of the glasses of wine, the other towards his security.



“Welcome, welcome to my humble abode. Please, Mr. Hunter, I ask of you, make yourself at home.” The man smiled, gesturing towards a fanciful sofa facing a roaring fireplace in one direction. “And you, Kenneth, please. Feel free to relax.”

Without waiting for a response from either man, he moved forward already, to take a seat and prop one foot over the other. He reached for the wine bottle, taking it to refill his own empty glass, and start to drink once more. Neil and Kenneth followed, with Neil taking a seat on a chair opposite the man’s own, but Kenneth remained standing, picking up an ash tray to smoulder and extinguish his cigarette.

“Lord Dumont,” Neil began, raising his glass to partake in the ruby liquid. “It’s a pleasure and honour of mine to be doing business with you.”

“No, no, not at all.” The blonde noble, Lord Dumont, owner of the Grande Diamond, raised his hand and shook his head. “No, you’re providing a fine service for me, sir. It is I who should be extending my thanks. The service you and your men provide, well, all I can is it’s invaluable.”

“Well, thank you.” Neil eased back into his seat. “I do like to be thanked for my work. I have to ask though. You’re not going to check on the merchandise yourself first?”

“No, no, that’s already arranged. I have one of my people inspecting them already. When they arrive here, we’ll be able to talk business and price, although I’m sure there’ll be no problems to mention.” Lord Dumont smiled pleasingly.

“But that hasn’t stopped you from taking precautions, however.” Neil looked up to Kenneth, who flashed a white smiling grin back at him. “Mr. Spade, I believe. One of the Four Suits.”

“You’ve heard of me.” Kenneth nodded.

“You can’t really be in the kind of line of work I’m in without doing so,” Neil laughed. “Yeah, your reputation is well known.”

“Well, thanks.”

“You don’t need to worry about ol’Kenneth here,” Dumont continued. “He’s just here as way of insurance. I’m sure we won’t have any problems here with our transaction, but it’d be very unwise of me not to have some form of security, wouldn’t it? You don’t mind?”

“Nah, not at all,” Neil shrugged. “It’s your money. How you spend it is up to you. But I can assure you you won’t get any funny business from me. I’m just here to sell you the goods, and that’s it. I don’t see why it needs to be made anymore complicated then that, really. It works out better for me and my boss.”

“Yes, well. My lady will be here shortly. Looking over the cameras, she’s bringing two new hirees with her. I hope you don’t mind if I speak with her about them first before we continue our transaction. I’ll compensate you, of course.”

“Hey, I’m in no rush,” Neil laughed again, taking another sip of his wine. “The wine’s doing me good, here. We’re in your home, after all. I’m sure you won’t waste my time.”

“Of course not.” Dumont smiled. “If anything, you may even be treated to a show.”

“Mind if I ask a question?”

Kenneth’s voice suddenly interrupted the conversation, surprising both the Lord and Neil, but neither seemed to object. Lord Dumont’s pleasant smile never vanished, and instead he waved his hand to prompt Kenneth to speak his mind.

“By all means.”

“I know this isn’t my place, and to be honest it doesn’t really bother me either way. But I am curious.” Kenneth placed his hands in his pockets. “You have a lot of women working for you already. Some, I think, who are even willing to perform the kind of things you might be thinking to ask them to do. So… why go about buying kidnapped women?”

“Ah, my dear Kenneth. It’s no big secret,” Dumont laughed. “Some of my fine women do indeed work for us in such capacity, to please my extinguished clientele. However, some of them… some of them want a bit more. And as much as these ladies can try to fake resistance, well, it simply isn’t real. Some of my clients and friends simply have… greater needs. That’s all.”

Kenneth arched a brow, before shrugging his shoulders. “If you say so. Anyway…” He nodded his head to one of the room’s walls, and to the bank of monitors resting there, showing the same video feed that the security room where Bart and Heather were in could see. Mordie and her entourage of beautiful women, and the stunning woman pacing down the corridor towards them with two of those women in tow… “I think Lady Vasco’s here, boss. Would you like me to let her in?”

“Yes, yes,” Dumont nodded his head, laughing. “Let’s see what Los Paraisos’ beautiful new celebrity, Selan Leclair, is like in person, shall we?”

[Rexcalibur]

Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond

All of Mordie's followers seemed to be having such a good time. She was blindly cheerful, never aware of how much she actually talked, but as long as her joviality kept the others upbeat, that was all that mattered. While they relaxed, catching a break from trotting on those dreadful heels and dresses too tight, Aria and Mordie continued their banter.

"Me? Oh, for some time ah suppose. Ah work for securitay." Mordie shrugged. "Ah know, ah don't quite look it. Everyone expects some big guys with sunglasses, but instead they got me walkin' 'round in circles like ah don't know where ah'm goin'." She winked at the illusionist. "Though to be fair, ah really don't half the time. Anyhoo, sure! Let's have a game sometime. Ah'm no good at poker mahself, but Kenny - boy, he's got all the confidence in the world. You'll see 'im 'round here too!"

She would have rambled on and on if Lucien hadn't spoken up about the dungeons Mordie mentioned earlier. Something about if they kept bears in there?? Xandra looked pale just thinking about what they could possibly be used for, but Mordie failed to notice her discomfort.

"Huh? Bears? Umm." Mordie drew a finger to her lips again, pensively rolling her bright blue eyes to the ceiling. She leaned back against the balcony again, nearly knocking over Dylan with her elbow. "They didn't have any 'bears' the last time ah checked..." She lifted her finger over her head, as if stricken by a eureka moment. "Oh, but they have horses! 'n they also- mm? Sugar, is somethin' wrong?"

Mordie's eyes trailed back to Thunderhawk's own. As the former babbled on and on, her dress' zipper had rolled down yet again, revealing the top half of her necktie, the bottom of which was lost in her bosom still, never to see the light of day. The ranger stared back at Mordie in total silence all the while - though when Mordie noticed where his eyes locked, she merely laughed it off and zipped back up her top. "Oh! Ahaha, sorry 'bout that... ah told Kenny it was a size too small, but he insists ah wear it anyway.. ... ..."

[Pachamac]

Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond: Grand Hall First Flor Balcony

Thunderhawk’s eyes stretched to incredulous lengths after the stinging sensation that filled his entire body. He was locked in shock, unable to process what had just occurred. Normally… normally a woman would slap him across his face, not his rear. This… this might have been the first time it ever happened to him. How was he supposed to react? For a moment his thoughts were lost from the mission. If that’s how she wanted to play, then…

His own hand, delicately styled, manicured and nail polished, rose in the air, ready to swat Mordie’s own incredible rump. But then he stopped. Wait. Wait, no, a woman wouldn’t do this, would she? If he did this, then he risked blowing their cover… perhaps. He couldn’t do that, could he?

But wait, Mordie was a woman! And a hell of a woman at that. So… so he could…

But before he could get a chance to finish his thoughts, his vision was blocked by that. By the gods…! He decided to exactly as Aria had suggested, and keep his mouth quiet. And then…

“Well well, what do we have here?”

From behind them, a group of three lavishly dressed men approached them, each sophisticated in their step and handsome to a finish. The tall men all looked at the women, eyeing them approvingly.

“New recruits, Mordie?” Asked one of the noblemen, scratching his bearded chin. “Giving them the grand tour, hmm?”

“There really isn’t anything to be nervous of, ladies.” Chimed in another, swirling his glass of brandy about before downing it. “If you have the confidence to apply to work, then you’ll do just fine. So long as you don’t spill any drinks and mind your manners, there really isn’t anything to worry about too much. If you want, we can help you in your training. Being waited on by such beautiful women as you,” The nobleman bent to his knee, taking Aria’s hand into his own and softly kissing it. “Well, it would be an honour.”

“And if you’d like, Miss, I could show you the bears in the dungeon. Haha!” The third winked at Lucien.

[Bunanigans]

The Grande Diamond - Top Floor
Ding!

"Ah, here we are. The top floor, ladies. You are very lucky, few get to step foot up here." Iliana gave them a very brief smile before she stepped seamlessly out of the lift and began to once more pace swiftly down the corridor. Her footsteps were now silent, her heels muffled by the plush, luxurious carpet. She was completely unfazed by the sheer grand-ness of the top floor, even compared to the rest of the building.

"My superior's name is Lord Alistair Dumont - he owns the Grande Diamond. He likes to meet our most outstanding recruits, although I must say it was rather difficult to pick amoung your group," Iliana's hips began to swing even more than usual, preparing herself for her entrance. Unlike the likes of Selan, she had to really work her hips to bring any attention to them. Although she was pretty much an expert at it anyway.

They walked briskly past a couple of guards, before coming to a stop before a massive pair of doors. Iliana seemed to hesitate for just a second, brushing her hair over her shoulder, before she brought her hand up and briskly rapped her knuckles against the door.

And when a voice called them in, she pushed the doors wide open.

"Ah, I apologise deeply for the delay, sir," Iliana called as she strode through the doors, once more the perfect picture of confidence. She stopped and gave a deep bow. "We had a rather interesting group of women apply for the jobs we advertised this morning. It would have been such a shame to allow them to pass by, especially when one of their number turned out to be such a celebrity."

She straightened from her bow again and turned to her left, walking towards Marcus. "This is Marcy." She trailed her hand over his jawline. "She's a clever one, this one. Slim figure, wonderful legs, pleasingly strong jawline, and beautiful bright blue eyes." She then stepped over to Selan, her fingers delicately running across her shoulder as she leaned in close to the songstress. "Ah... and well, I'm sure Los Paraisos' latest sensation needs no introduction, does she not?"

[Taerinn]

Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond - Top Floor

"Ah... and well, I'm sure Los Paraisos' latest sensation needs no introduction, does she not?"

As suspected, Lady Vasco was well aware of Selan's overnight celebrity status, and had no qualms about playing it up. The songstress looked across the extravagant room to see this 'Lord Dumont', and froze at the sight of the man sitting next to two blonde men.



"I think she does, actually." Neil smirked, swirling the wine around in his glass. He looked over the two women with great interest, but narrowed his gaze at Selan in particular.

Selan stared back at Neil Hunter with a puzzled look, almost forgetting her mask of gratefulness and naivete. He looked older and colder than the picture of him she had in her cloudy memories, but there was no mistaking him. The horrible feeling of dread she had experienced ever since being briefed on the mission had just been validated, and there was now no doubt in her mind that there was something very wrong with this establishment.

"Mr. Hunter, surely you've read the morning paper!" Dumont exclaimed jovially. "Black and white does not do you justice, Miss Leclair! And Marcy, was it? Yes, I can see the cleverness in your eyes. Beautiful, just beautiful. Come, sit!" He gestured to the nearby chairs.

Selan looked back at Lady Vasco, who looked quite pleased with herself. With a forced smile, the songstress made her way over to a chair facing Lord Dumont, held her chin up, and crossed her legs. She tried not to look at Neil, praying to the gods that he did not and would not recognize her.

"Lord Dumont," Selan focused all of her charm on the one man she had to impress. She remembered to speak with her accent despite now greatly regretting using it during her interview with Lady Vasco. "It's a pleasure and an honor to meet you in person. And I must say, The Grande Diamond is just as beautiful inside as it is outside."

[Crescendo]

Los Paraisos : the Grande Diamond

Bears in the dungeon? Aria couldn’t help but marvel at Lucien’s train of thought. Large and potentially dangerous furry beasts were hardly the first thing to come to mind when dungeons are mentioned.

"They didn't have any 'bears' the last time ah checked..."

It would certainly be one heck of a dungeon if they did.

"Oh, but they have horses!

Aria blinked. Horses? So there were dungeons and stables?

Oh wait. Wrong kind of horses.

She coughed lightly, slight blush on her face as she turned back to the conversation in time to see Mordie adjust her clothing while Chirps gawked on. She deadpanned at him. Perhaps he needed a little shove over the railing to remind him where they were-

“Well well, what do we have here?”

She turned, only to be greeted by the sight of three men. Judging by their well -dressed (and quite handsome, might she add) appearances, she could safely presume that they were patrons of the Grande Diamond. She watched in surprise as one of them bent down one knee in front of her, taking her hand into his and touching his lips onto her hand gently.

She pressed her other hand onto her now rather furiously blushing cheeks, laughing softly in embarrassment. My, what a smooth talker! He sure knew how to flatter a girl.

“Oh no, the honour would be all mine, sir!” She replied breathlessly as he stood back up, peering up at him from under her lashes. Part of her job was keeping the patrons happy, no? And from what she knew of men they certainly liked their egos being stoked. “To offer to help me in my training when you must be quite the busy man, how generous! I’m very flattered. It would be my pleasure to have the chance to serve such fine gentlemen as you.”

She had almost forgotten how fun it was to play the part of a blushing maiden. Nothing like seeing how a few words could lift up someone’s spirits by so much.

[Fox of Spades]

"You're a police officer?" Lucien grinned, "that's pretty cool and horses, huh? I'm good with animals, so if you need any help with them I'd be happy to help ya out." He gave Mordie a thumbs up and besides, helping with animals would be way better than scrubbing toilets. The summoner stretched a little, he really wanted to get out of his dress, but they were far from finished sooo it'd be some time before he got to wear his comfy robes again.

Xan looked at their guide quizzically. They kept horses in their dungeons? Did they have other animals in there? Maybe she'd check the other places out instead and leave the dungeon to Lucien or someone else who was more willing to interact with animals. Yes...there was a lot more ground to cover, though the dungeon sounded like the most suspicious place at the moment. The metallurgist continued listening to Mordie before she noticed Thunderhawk, the latter seeming to be lost in a daze. She narrowed her eyes at their appointed leader before three men in suits came to join in on their conversation.

The men were quite the charmers and judging by their clothes, they were probably important people. They would need to be careful, though at the moment, no one seemed suspicious. That was good and Aria was certainly keeping them happy which was also good. Xan nodded to herself, perhaps this would work.

“And if you’d like, Miss, I could show you the bears in the dungeon. Haha!”

Lucien turned to grin at the man. "Mhm? I have a friend who wrestled a bear." He laughed at the memory before looking at his teammates. This was his chance to get some investigation done and it would be a shame if he turned down the offer. Plus, he wanted to see if it was a panda, grizzly, or polar bear. "Oh and I might just have to accept your offer." Lucien giggled before he winked playfully in the man's direction.

[Pachamac]

Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond: Grande Suite

"Lord Dumont," Selan focused all of her charm on the one man she had to impress. She remembered to speak with her accent despite now greatly regretting using it during her interview with Lady Vasco. "It's a pleasure and an honor to meet you in person. And I must say, The Grande Diamond is just as beautiful inside as it is outside."

“Ah, why thank you my dear. That’s very kind of you to say. And… Marcy? It’s an honour to meet you as well. Both of you are simply beautiful, I must say.” Lord Dumont rose to his feet, helping to take each of the lady’s hands in his own and guide them to the empty seats of the sofa. “May I interest you both in some wine?”

Marcus’ body calmly sat down on the sofa, being careful to do as discreetly and inauspiciously as possible. But much in the same way as he had demonstrated his acute senses and detail to attention, his eyes were elsewhere, scanning the entirety of the room and analysing, taking notice of and memorising every last detail, from the wall filled with security camera monitors to the people occupying the room. From carefully scrutinising Lord Dumont himself, the owner of the Grande Diamond, to Lady Vasco once more, and the grey stranger he sat next to. As well as…

“Let me introduce you to my associates here. This is my friend, Mr. Hunter. We were just in the process of discussing some business before you arrived, which - no, no, it’s quite alright, we can conclude it later - I believe we’re both interested in talking to the pair of you right now,” Dumont smiled jovially, laughing as he patted the side of his chair’s arm rest for Iliana to rest. “It really isn’t everyday we get such beautiful women as you two apply to work here. Really, it’s an honour.”

“It certainly is,” Neil grinned again, his gaze passing straight through Marcus to Selan. Marcus meanwhile, had his sight on…

“And my other friend here is Kenneth. He’s working as my security.” Dumont added with a flick of his hand towards the suited blonde.

“Howdy,” The rugged man nodded. “Don’t be scared of me. I don’t bite.”

Marcus looked away, focusing Marcy’s attention back towards Lord Dumont, and the glass of wine proffered him. It said a lot about Selan’s skills with beautification and makeup that Kenneth hadn’t been able to deduce who he is… for him to reach this far passing as a woman alone. To be in the presence of the head of the establishment… that had taken Estelle and Josette…

He picked up the glass, lingering for a fraction of a second as he considered the possibility the wine might be spiked. He had no desire to fall for that trick again, but seeing as how everyone else, including Lady Vasco who had just arrived with them, was drinking from the same wine bottle, it seemed safe to follow, and he didn’t want to risk any suspicion in not doing so. He swallowed hard, however. It was his luck that Selan’s particular celebritydom was what really captured Dumont’s eye, as well as that of Hunter and Kenneth, but Marcus found another pain gripping him.

The pain of restraint. He wanted to free Estelle. Now. And whilst he very easily could, he found himself completely unable to. This conflict was agonising…

“Miss Leclair, I… do pardon me for being so forward, but would you mind showing us your talents?” Dumont asked, leaning forward in his seat with a sparkle in his eye as he stared at Selan. It wasn’t a request. “After reading about you in the paper, why, it was a tremendous shame I wasn’t able to see you perform there. But to have the opportunity now would be… simply exquisite.”

Kenneth turned slightly, to look back towards the embankment of monitors and the security footage being played as he took a sip of his wine, careful not to have any of the individuals inside the room leave his field of vision. He stared towards Mordie, and the other group of girls that had come in with Selan and Marcy…

---

Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond: First Floor Balcony overlooking the Main Party Hall

“Ah, so you’d accompany me then? Why, that’s grand!” The noble’s face beamed with elation, as he hooked out his arm for Lucy to hold on to, not giving him much choice but to oblige. If Lucien had any reluctance, he didn’t seem to show it, energetically hooking his fair shaved arm with the noble, and playfully tittering at his side. Thunderhawk and Dylan’s faces paled at the prospect of what might possibly await Lucien in the dungeons… even though it also presented an opportunity to find Estelle, Josette, and the missing women.

“Ah, if you would excuse me, ladies, gentlemen,” The noble bowed. “We’ll be back again shortly.”

Dylan stole the chance to lean forwards, and throw his hand in the noble’s other free arm. It was an act of pure impulse, but one that wasn’t irrationalised. It wouldn’t be good for them to all be split up, especially when one of them was being taken to the dungeons.

“Ah, sir,” Dylan tried his best to put on his sweet and serene voice. “I would love to accompany you as well…”

“Hahaha! The more the merrier, I say! Come, ladies, follow me!” The noble threw back his head and laughed, as he strode forwards to an elevator discreetly placed in the corner of the balcony that would quickly take them to the seventh floor and its… ‘dungeons’.

“He never waits around, does he?” One of the other noble men shook his head. His companion laughed.

“Well, you know ol’Boris. Anyway, Anthony, I shall be off as well. When a beautiful girl like our young miss here offers one companionship, one does not decline.” The bearded man extended his arm out again for Aria to take. “We shall head down to the floor below and play some games of chance, I think. Tell me, miss, do you feel lucky?”

“Bah, that Alan.” The noble Anthony shook his head and sighed. He placed his hands on his hip. “Some of these gentlemen lack proper manners, don’t they? Sigh. Taking a new recruit to place games of cards and dice, or to take them to the dungeons of all things! That’s not how you look after a lady. Sigh…” He lifted his head back up, fixing his eyes to the beautiful Mordie, Thunderhawk and Xandra. “What about you, my lovelies? Was there anywhere you were interested in seeing or going?”

“Er… well… the bar would be nice right about now…” Thunderhawk muttered out of the corner of his breath before catching himself and freezing.

“Ahahaha! Yes, the bar! A good girl should know how to serve drinks! Come,” His hands fell atop Thunderhawk and Xandra’s shoulders. “Let us retire to the bar, shall we? What about you, Miss Mordie? Would you like to accompany us? The drinks will be on me!”

Meanwhile, in the elevator, Boris led his two fine companions into the elevator, before leaning forward to press the button calling for the seventh floor. As the machine started to hum and lift, he leaned back, happy and content to be surrounded with such fine, beautiful women.

“Well, ladies, I do believe it’d be rude not to properly introduce one another. My name is Boris Maddox. Perhaps you’ve heard of our family? Ol'Dumont here has a wonderful tropical home to have parties in, but nothing compares to my family's horse riding and hunts! Haha!” Boris stroked his moustache. “What about you, my dears. What are your names?”

[Dannyel]

Los Paraisos: The Grande Diamond

What was Lucy doing? What on Ddear was Lucy doing? Agreeing to accompany this random noble to the “dungeon” to see the “bear”? There was no way that this would end well. So he did the only thing he could think of at at time. He quickly stepped forward, and with the bat of an eyelash and a quick remark, got invited to come along.

His mind raced as they made their way to the elevator. He still wasn’t entire sure how safe of an establishment the Grande Diamond was for their ladies, but he was fairly sure that good ol’Boris here had a certain something on his mind and would be very angry when he saw what they were hiding up their skirts. Unless Dylan was totally wrong, and he prayed to Aislin that he was, but he didn’t believe it anyway.

“Well, ladies, I do believe it’d be rude not to properly introduce one another. My name is Boris Maddox. Perhaps you’ve heard of our family? Ol'Dumont here has a wonderful tropical home to have parties in, but nothing compares to my family's horse riding and hunts! Haha!” Boris stroked his moustache. “What about you, my dears. What are your names?”

Dylan glanced down as the noble spoke, trying very hard to look demure. “Oh, I’m Diane. Just Diane, please, I’m not a noble like you. Thank you very much for escorting us to the, erm, dungeons. Strange to think think they are on the seventh floor. Didn’t our tour guide say that everything above the 5th floor was bedrooms that were rented out?” 


He shoot Lucy a pointed look, hoping to the Gods that the man caught his drift. Worse comes to worse, he figured that the two of them could probably take Boris, but he didn’t want to blow their cover.

[Rexcalibur]

Quickly Boris ambled off with a lovely lady on each arm, and Alan with Aria's in his. Mordie waved goodbye to the newbies, still smiling broadly at how enthusiastic the new girls were to enjoy their time at the Grande Diamond. No wonder Lady V was quick to hire them! The remaining sir, Anthony, offered to take the remaining three to a bar, on behalf of Henrietta's request.

"Oh, would ah ever! Thank-you, darling!" Mordie giggled, taking his request. As the quad took off, she kept to the back, eyes glued to the fine ladies' asses as they walked. Although... neither of the two had much shazam in their stride like some of the other dolls had. But my oh my, were all of their faces and physique absolutely astounding. Phwoar!

"C'mon, Fluffy~" she cooed behind Henrietta. "Lemme see some power in those hips! You too, Xanny! Look alive!" At least luckily (or unluckily) were wasn't any butt-slapping this round.

Once they step foot into the bar downstairs, still booming with liveliness from the jazz band playing next door, Mordie immediately strode towards the bar counter. She plopped her bottom atop the leather swivel chair and whirled around to face the others, one leg crossed over the other. The edge of her dress barely even reached her thighs when she sat like this.

It was barely the afternoon, but patrons and waitresses already hustled and bustled about the crowded room. The waitresses were outnumbered by far.

[Bunanigans]

The Grande Diamond - Grande Suite
Iliana fell silent, allowing Lord Dumont to talk to the two girls. Instead she simply strolled forwards and perched herself on the plush arm rest to his chair. She swung her legs theatrically once more to cross them, before leaning against the back of his chair luxuriously. Image was everything. She took her offered glass of wine quite readily and began to sip at it with upmost elegance and grace.

Her eyes hovered over the screens for a moment, spotting the nosey rude woman with now only two of the prospective employees. Gods... was she completely useless?! Iliana tensed for a moment and her knuckles went white, although she caught herself and remembered exactly where she was.

She then looked back towards the two she had here. As expected both Lord Dumont and Mr Hunter were very interested in Selan. Well, the woman really was something else, and made even her feel somewhat inferior. Iliana however avoided looking towards Mr Hunter, and any times she did her expression was that of barely-veiled contempt. At least, whenever he wasn't looking. Which was most of the time, what with the way he was staring at the songstress.

In contrast Marcy seemed quite happy to sit back and stay quiet for now, just watching the others. Hmm. She had already proven herself to be particularly observant, so it made Iliana wonder. She was sitting still for sure, the picture of perfection, although if anything she was too still. Tense. She placed a finger on her bottom lip as she thought. What are you thinking, Miss Marcy?

“Miss Leclair, I… do pardon me for being so forward, but would you mind showing us your talents? After reading about you in the paper, why, it was a tremendous shame I wasn’t able to see you perform there. But to have the opportunity now would be… simply exquisite.”

"I can assure you sir, the papers simply couldn't do any of Miss Selan's preformances justice," Iliana said somewhat smugly, flicking her hair back before bringing her glass back up to her lips. She finally took her eyes off Marcy to watch Selan instead, eager to see a second preformance.

[Crescendo]

Los Paraisos : the Grande Diamond

Games of chance, hm? Now that sounded like a lot of fun.

“I myself have always quite partial to a nice game of cards. I’ve also picked up quite a few card tricks that I’d be more than happy to show you if you’re interested.” She smiled in return. As they walked Aria studied the man from the corners of her eyes. He really was quite handsome, about a head taller than her with dark brown tousled hair, a finely clipped beard, looking to be in his mid 30s. He carried himself in quite the sophisticated fashion as many of the patrons here did, she noted with a smile.

The two had made their way halfway down the grand staircase, and were currently on the landing halfway down. Suddenly she blinked in realization.

“Oh my, I’ve forgotten to introduce myself, haven’t I? How careless!” She slipped her hand gently from his arm and swept into a graceful curtsy. “My name is Aria, sir. It’s a great pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

After introductions were done and taken care of, the two proceeded down to the lively floor of the casino party area. The jazz band was playing as lively as ever, dancers filling the floor. Aria took the chance to sidle slightly closer to the man as if to make sure they wouldn’t be accidentally separated. She scanned the room, noting all the security cameras that hung from the ceiling. The illusionist tilted her head as she studied one. Did they reflect illusions as well?

“Oh, there’s a table over there that’s starting.” She motioned to a group of four people sitting around a poker table as the dealer brought out a pack of cards. “Shall we join them, or should I go fetch a drink for you first?” She smiled sweetly at the man.

[Fox of Spades]

Boris Maddox. Maddox? Boris? OH HELL NO. NO NO NO.

Lucien stiffened and paled, and for a moment the world seemed to spin. It couldn't be, right? Haha, the idea was crazy, it just couldn't be that Boris. He snuck a look at the man's face while trying to appear calm and chipper. No wonder the man was familiar, it was his COUSIN. "O-Oh," it was getting a lot harder to stay calm and his hands went ice cold. In a matter of seconds the chirpy Lucy had become a train wreck. He tried to keep calm and was doing an astounding job, but to be honest, he felt like throwing up.

Maybe Boris wouldn't recognize him? They had never been close after all. Boris was at least five years older and back when they were young Boris would go on hunts with their uncles while Lucien stayed in his room with a horror book or one of the many strays he'd bring in. Plus, Selan had did a grand job with his makeup, so he was safe, yeah?

“What about you, my dears. What are your names?”

“Oh, I’m Diane. Just Diane, please, I’m not a noble like you. Thank you very much for escorting us to the, erm, dungeons. Strange to think think they are on the seventh floor. Didn’t our tour guide say that everything above the 5th floor was bedrooms that were rented out?”

Lucien was snapped out of his thoughts. Right, right, he had to play it cool. "I'm Lucy, and I'm so excited to see the dungeons. Oh, you must have a lot of skeletons in there." He didn't really know what he was saying anymore and was semi-paralyzed in shock. However, he noticed the pointed look Dylan had tossed his way and winced. He didn't quite catch what Boris had said, and thought Dylan was merely nervous. The summoner faked a smile. There were too of them, so they'd be okay.

The elevator stopped and the double doors slid open. Boris led them to 'The Dungeon' and it wasn't what Lucien had been suspecting. Weren't dungeons all stony and full of chains and molds and skeletons? This one had chains and paddles and whips, but they lacked skeletons and didn't feel eerie at all. "Oh my!" He exclaimed, "look at all this monster hunting gear." Lucien eyed the pointy knives before staring at Dylan in confusion. This dungeon sucked. Hopefully, Dyn would spare the idiot.



“What about you, my lovelies? Was there anywhere you were interested in seeing or going?”

This was their chance to sweep the area and look for anything suspicious. However, the question was, where to look first?

“Er… well… the bar would be nice right about now…”

Xan looked at Thunderhawk and tried to convey a sense of urgency, but he didn't seem to be looking. The bar wouldn't be a bad place to start, though it would be unlikely that they'd be hiding the missing women in such a crowded area. Sure, there was a thing called hiding in plain sight, but it didn't seem as if they'd get lucky. Anyway, they could always look around and maybe get some useful information out of people who've had a little too much to drink. Places like those loosened people up after all, didn't they? However, before Xan could think about it some more Anthony ushered both Thunderhawk and her towards the bar while Mordie trailed behind them.

"Oh...thank you for the kind offer." Xan smiled shyly, "getting to learn more about the Grande Diamond will be great."

Mordie yelled cheerful encouragements from behind and Xan forced a laugh. This was going to be a horribly long day, but they were getting places.

The neon lights and loud music made Xan want to groan but she followed after them politely, smiling whenever Mordie or Anthony spoke. It was rather early but the place was almost packed. She looked at Mordie, smiled, and decided to try and be more outgoing. "This place sure is lively? It must be very exciting working somewhere that's booming twenty four hours a day and seven days a week." She paused to laugh softly, "I bet you love it here, don't you? I can see why you would, and I look forward to joining you." Xan placed a gentle hand on Anthony's shoulder and politely led him to his seat.

The girl gave Thunderhawk a smile and motioned for him to take the seat beside Anthony. "Henrietta has been very excited as well, lately, it's been all she's been talking about. Thank you again for having us."