FunnyGuy

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Violet
&
Alexander

2

Time: After Midnight 🦉
Location: Back Alley in the Slums
Mention: Roman @ReusableSword, Fritz/Ryn @JJ Doe, Calbert and Liliane Damien

---

Violet’s crimson eyes shot over to him as realization dawned on her. She could feel the need to cry lurking as it crept forward with each second. Instinctively her hand reached for her cheek where the sting from his hand meeting her face had occurred. Although he had hurt her, she didn't believe it to be about malice; however, her condition caused him to feel the need to do something to pull her from it. How could she subject anyone to that? Even someone as strong as Roman.

“....no,” she said softly as her hand fell from her cheek, grasping her hand for comfort as she held them against her as they walked. She fell silent again as her mind absorbed all the things he said. “My Mother or Lord Ravenwood. They…I…” she stumbled on her words. “I don't think I could for anyone in truth.”

“Violet.” Alexander's voice was absent of any sharpness as he quickly moved around her so that he could directly face her. Violet's eyes met his as he caught her off guard with his sudden change. He caught her clasped hands in his own, putting a full stop to their movement just before they entered the main throughway. She looked down at her hands as he held them. “Now do you understand why I am here with you tonight? I may not be responsible or even love you, but I know this path, and we are lucky to have found each other on it. You, Violet, can live or die however you desire but if you want to continue as we are from today onward, walk this path beside me. Give me time and I will show you that death is not the only means of freeing yourself from this nightmare.”

Taking a slow breath as it hitched in her throat she squeezed his hand as her shoulders dropped in response. Something in her eased at his proposition.

Alexander scared her; she had already seen what she could only assume was a fraction of what he was capable of, but doing this alone scared her even more. “What do you get out of this?” She pushed. “As you stated, you do not love me nor are you responsible for me. I have nothing to offer except frustrations.” Her grip on his hands relaxed as she felt the soft caress of his thumbs.

“I get an ally. Someone I can come to trust here in Sorian. Someone outside of the Black Rose Company who knows my well-kept secret. I won't ask for much except your loyalty and the assumption of a particular role to make our meetings appear more natural to the public eye.” He flashed a toothy grin. “And I'll take the frustrations. I have quite a few methods for easing those.”

She matched his toothy smile as she gave him a sly look. “I am sure you do.” she added. However, the smile faded as the rest of his words sunk in. Her face expressed her thoughts as her features softened. “I haven’t spoken your name in any relation to myself out of respect for what you did for me. You don't need to offer me this out of pity or fear that I would share your secrets.” She paused for a moment as she thought about the idea more.

“Of course not. It's merely proof of the trust between us.” Alexander gave an encouraging nod as it appeared Violet had more to say.

“What kind of role would I hold?”

“My assistant.” He shrugged simply. “It's not something your parents would be fond of, especially your father. The daughter of a count in the service of some lord holding no other title… But in theory, it would be a great way to get you outside and keep you protected while your parents focus on other matters.” His voice held a somewhat jollier tone than usual. Before he moved around her once more, returning to her side whilst placing his arm around the back of her shoulders. Violet rested her hands back in front of her as she watched his movement from the corner of her eye. As he leaned into her and with a sultry whisper she felt the hairs on her skin rise in response as he continued. “In truth, you’d perform a few tasks for me or help Lianna fetch something from a high shelf, but most of the time you'd be free to go off on your merry way without your parents sending search parties after you. Everyone wins… except your father’s ego, but I can convince your mother, which is surely enough.” Alexander was quite aware of what drove Count Damien above all else. It was, in fact, the very thing the Black Rose Company used against him.

Violet shrugged softly “I had a conversation with my mother before this outing. She already assured me my privacy and free choice. She has little say in what I do, and she can twist my father any way she pleases,” Her tone seemed to drop when she spoke of them. “You would have little issue. Regardless of what they feel, my mother is trying to keep me safe. She will do anything to ensure that.”

Perfect.

Taking a deep breath she bit her lip as she thought. After a moment, a smile spread on her lips, exposing her toothy grin as her crimson eyes moved to greet his. “I accept, on one condition. You buy the drinks tonight.” The pair laughed together at the proposal and they finally took a step into the throughway.

“Of course, Scarl- Violet. As my employee, it would be uncouth not to.”

She looked at him with an uncomfortable expression. “Feels weird you referring to me as anything other than Scarlett at this point. Perhaps when in public for image purposes.” She smiled. “Outside of that…I can just be Scarlett,” a cheeky grin spread on her lips. “...Sir.” She dipped her head as if to gesture to his new station.

So very perfect.

Alexander would continue to lead Violet to the establishment of his choosing, coming upon a humble tavern. It lacked the popularity of the Tough Tavern, but that's exactly what Alexander wanted. Upon entering, the few pairs of eyes inside affixed to them, especially upon Violet’s form.

“Harvey.” Alexander greeted the elderly bartender with a nod whilst pointing to a vacant table close to the bar

“Welcome back, sir… and greetings to you madam.” He couldn't help noticing those red irises of hers. Those same crimson rings inspected the man for a moment before Violet gave him a soft smile and a nod “Good evening.” She responded with a soft tone.

“Open a tab, would you?” Alexander requested as he noticed how light the tavern was with customers. “And go ahead and add the rest of the patrons here to it. Drinks are on me tonight!” He declared as he pulled back one of the chairs of the vacant table for Violet. There was a faint cheer or two after Alexander’s generous declaration.

Violet accepted the seat and made herself comfortable leaning against it and removing the hood from her hair. Normally, she wouldn’t be so open with her appearance, keeping herself sheltered from people's glances and whispers due to her scars. However, with Alexander, she didn’t feel the need to mask who she was. “I don't think I’ve been to this tavern before,” she noted, looking around.

“Really? And I'm supposed to be the newcomer here in Sorian…” He chuckled. “Then again, someone such as yourself would hardly find herself in an establishment like this one.” Alexander held two fingers up for Harvey. “The usual, Harvey,” Alexander requested, barely looking his way. “Scarlett…” He let the name float in the space between them.

Violet sat back in her chair as she rested her hands on her lap, her red eyes fixated on Alexander. Breaking the moment with a small shrug, choosing to ignore his choice of name. “Well, my nose was always pressed into books. My parents kept my sister and I under tight observation. My movements were very restricted for obvious reasons.”

“Makes sense.”

Harvey came over to the table, placing two glasses between them; he didn’t acknowledge Alexander and simply slipped back into his bar, tending to another patron.

“It’s been an adjustment” she added, reaching for one of the glasses and taking a small sip. She cringed slightly at the strength of the drink before looking back at him as he took a sip himself. “What is this?” She held back a giggle while clearing her throat from its burn.

“Gin. With a squeeze of lime or lemon. Whatever Harvey has more of tonight. Perhaps you've read a story mentioning the drink,” he teased. “I can have him fetch something else if you'd like… or do you only prefer the warm elixir now?” He posed the question with a raised eyebrow.

Her eyes flitted cautiously around the dimly lit room, scanning for any eavesdroppers before settling back on Alexander.

“No… this is fine. I don’t mind the burn,” she murmured, her voice low and almost a purr. “I usually prefer whiskey, but this... this is a nice change.” Her lips curved into a subtle, almost secretive smile, a hint of something dark flickering in her gaze. “As for my other tastes... if I were to sit and really consider what I'm doing, maybe I wouldn’t. But that’s like eating a steak and thinking too much about the cow.”

Her finger glided along the rim of the glass, the long, sharp nail—perfectly coated in black polish—causing the glass to emit a soft, eerie hum. The sound lingered in the air, adding to the tension that seemed to coil around them.

“Is it awful of me to admit that I do?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, her eyes refusing to meet his.

Never, but...

“The idea of a supplier is intriguing, but I think I’ve become more of a hunter in my free time.” Her eyes finally lifted, the deep crimson orbs locking onto his, searching, probing for his reaction. “The only part that I dislike is feeling like I've lost myself to it.”

“Get used to it. Losing yourself is what lies in wait, Scarlett.” Alexander delivered the harsh truth without sparing the exceptions to the mentioned fate. He raised his glass to face, preparing for another taste as he continued. There was a hint of a smile that crept upon his lips, indicating his desire to tease the girl further.

“And hunt? Seriously? You really are Calbert’s child… Do you just aim to go out there and find the first vulnerable creature you can lay eyes on? You'll be hung in the square in a month’s time.” He scoffed and took a swig.

Her brow arched, a sinister glint in her eye as her finger traced slow, deliberate circles around the rim of her glass.

“If you think me Calbert's child, then you know I am far from foolish. Although my father has made some stupid decisions, he has continued thriving on his own for a reason.” She lifted the glass taking a measured sip. “The ones I've targeted are nothing but vermin. Though I admit, it hasn’t been easy to conceal the aftermath… but I doubt anyone will truly mourn their absence.”

“Ah…” Alexander played along as if her words were convincing, allowing her to speak uninhibitedly for a time. A nerve had been struck.

A shadow passed over Violet’s face as her mind flickered back to the man who dared to assault her, the memory a lingering stain on her thoughts. His hands grabbing at her, tearing at her clothes. She pulled herself from the memory. “Honestly, I’m just doing the world a favor.” She took another drink, the fire in her eyes dimming slightly. Her voice dropped as she seemed to relax her shoulders. “Yet, I still wrestle with these emotions… It feels wrong to voice them aloud, to acknowledge this monster I've become.” She finished her drink, and before she could put the glass down, Harvey had arrived with a fresh glass, taking her empty one and leaving once again. Alexander was busy looking into his half-empty glass, softly swirling the contents with the slight rotation of his wrist.

“Because you continue to lie to yourself. Do yourself a favor and stop coping. You don't do anything to help anyone. You're not on some crusade and you didn't choose this. Monster or vermin, you're just trying to do what every other fucking person in this world does… Remain in the game and play with the hand you're dealt the best you possibly can.” Alexander took a quick swig from his glass. “Right now, you have a shit hand. So whatever you choose to do, play it smart, or else you might as well toss your cards and tie the noose yourself.”

Rolling her eyes with a heavy, exasperated sigh, she bit back with a voice laced with venom, her words dripping with disdain. “My, aren’t we on a high horse this evening…”

Her gaze was cold as she peered over the rim of her freshly poured glass, the liquid inside swirling as she moved her hand. “Don’t sit there and spew all that nonsense. I guarantee you had your fair share of justifications when you first became what you are. No matter how this life chose you, anyone would struggle with the adjustment.” She leaned back in her chair, taking a slow sip, savoring the burn as it went down. “Your ability to be empathic is truly astounding.” Her voice dripped with sarcasm, cutting through the tension in the room. “Do you think I’m not painfully aware of this?” She gestured sharply with her hand, frustration etched deep in her features. “I thought I could confide in a friend, someone who claims to understand, only to be met with nothing but brash insults.” Her words hung in the air like a dark cloud as she turned her gaze to the corner of her eye, her expression a storm of barely contained anger and bitterness.

“It’s the truth, Scarlett. I spew this nonsense so that you may avoid the missteps made by those who came before you. If it’s coming off as harsh then…” Alexander suddenly winced as if he had been faced with a bright light or sharp sound. He averted his gaze before briefly blinking and shaking away whatever had befallen him. “...then I can adjust, I guess,” he said begrudgingly before finishing off his glass.

Her gaze shifted to him, cutting through the silence like a blade, just as he abruptly stopped speaking. Her brow furrowed, confusion mingling with the dim light that cast long shadows across the table. His sudden change in tone unsettled her, like a distant rumble of thunder before a storm.

“You still don’t get it, do you?” she murmured, her voice tinged with an edge that matched her frustrations. Concern flickered in her eyes, but it was quickly masked by a deeper intensity as she leaned forward with her arms resting on the cold surface of the table. Her gaze bore into him, searching, pleading with words unspoken.

“I…” she began, the word hanging in the air like a whispered confession. She hesitated, the truth clawing at her from within, but she swallowed it back, her throat tightening around the admission she couldn’t bring herself to voice.

“You..?” He slightly leaned in toward her while wisely using this time to slip his ring onto his finger beneath the table.

“I don’t wish you to change,” she finally breathed, her voice barely above a whisper, yet laced with a truth that felt like a heavy burden. It wasn’t what she wanted to say, but it was all she could offer. “Life is harsh, and so is the reality of it, but… sometimes, I just need help navigating through the darkness. Just… someone to talk to.”

There.

Her eyes dropped to the glass in her hands, the liquid inside reflecting the flicker of dim light as she took a long, steady drink as if to drown the words she wished she had the courage to say. “To remind me I’m not crazy,” she added, her voice falling to a near whisper, tinged with a sadness that lingered in the air.

“It’s selfish of me, I suppose,” she continued, her tone heavy with resignation. “You have your wife and all your… responsibilities. You don’t need to be weighed down by my insecurities.”

“It’s fine, Scarlett. I may have overreacted a tad. Apologies,” Alexander offered with a warmer expression. At the same moment, Harvey refilled his glass. “Much thanks Harvey,” he said as he grabbed his glass.
Violet leaned back in the chair “And what was that just a minute ago..Are you okay?” she inquired, unable to ignore it. Alexander had just finished taking a sip when he raised an eyebrow to her question. He was quite ready to gaslight her but stopped himself just before letting loose his tongue. It was a tad too soon for that.
“You caught that, huh? Observant. I truly admire those eyes of yours.” Alexander gazed into the deep red, almost forgetting to answer her question. “It’s a bothersome side effect of a…” he mouthed the word “spell” with a smile.
Blinking her eyes, Violet stared at him, her gaze sharp and probing, as if trying to decipher the dark transformation she had just witnessed. A spell? What kind of spell? His demeanor had shifted violently, morphing from the familiar Dr. Jekyll to a monstrous Mr. Hyde within the span of a heartbeat.
“What you were saying before…” The words caught in her throat, her apprehension manifesting in a stutter as she attempted to mask her confusion and curiosity. Alexander was already raising an eyebrow in perplexity as he continued to drink his gin. “Do you agree with it now? Word for word, in tone and delivery…? Or would you deliver it differently?” The question was laced with a barely concealed desperation, an attempt to uncover whether there was a hidden switch.
“What? What are you on about? I already apologized for the overreaction.” Alexander shook his head and grinned. “You can rub it in all you like if that's what you want.”
Looking at him for a moment she smiled softly in response “No, of course not. I think the gin is stronger than expected.” She looked at her cup for a moment, her mind still spinning with questions that she attempted to silence with another sip of her drink. “You don’t need to apologize, I’m sure it comes from experience.” She offered him a reassuring smile.
“It’s more like… hmm… how should I put it?” Alexander mused. “I had made a few observations about you that concerned me. Then I doused my worry with harshness which didn't help the situation in the slightest.”
“What exactly are the concerning observations?”
“Well, I can't be completely open about them here but I'm sure you can follow along.” He shot her a playful wink. “Based on what we've discussed, you have an almost insatiable desire for me. You seem to need me almost daily. You can't simply have just some of me. You desire all of me, yes? And-” He chuckled. “Perhaps that isn't the best example. Forgive me.”
She suppressed a smile, the humor behind his analogy not escaping her. Deciding to indulge in his game, she leaned forward, the shadows dancing across her face, highlighting the predatory glint in her crimson eyes. Her lips curved into a wicked, toothy smile.
“Yes…” she purred, her voice a sultry whisper that seemed to caress the very air between them. Her gaze locked onto his, unblinking, her eyes narrowing like a hunter sizing up its prey. “Every. Last. Inch..." she continued, drawing out the words, each syllable dripping with dark temptation. Alexander could only wear his smile.

“I know it’s wrong... but..." she leaned in closer, her finger tracing a slow, deliberate path around the rim of her glass. “I want what I want,” she murmured, her voice a velvet snare, thick with desire and a hint of something more dangerous. Every word was enunciated with a slow, deliberate precision, making her intent unmistakably clear.

“What. You. Want. Aaand that is exactly what I'm stuck on.” Her advance left him unmoved yet there was no hint of aversion to Violet. It was simply a matter of his self-control. “Does the spry mink need to feed every night or is it just something she desires? A much better example, I think.” He took up his glass once more.

Leaning forward, she dragged her glass closer, her fingers tracing its rim as her eyes drifted into the void, searching desperately for an elusive truth. How could she possibly convey the agony it brought her—the torment, the relentless craving—and yet the twisted relief that washed over her when it was finally sated?

Her voice, barely above a whisper, trembled as she spoke, "I’m not sure It even knows the full answer to that." The fleeting smile she offered was quickly overshadowed by a shadow of concern, her expression darkening like storm clouds rolling in. "It starts with this sick feeling," she continued, her voice cracking under the weight of her confession. " Then the obsessive thoughts come, the rage... the uncontrollable aggression."

Her head dipped as if crushed by the shame that weighed heavily upon her shoulders. "It feels like an affliction," she admitted, "that can only be soothed by indulging. It doesnt even want to imagine what would happen if it didn’t give in—the physical pain is unbearable."

With a flicker of despair, her gaze rose from the glass, meeting his with raw vulnerability, the walls she had carefully constructed crumbling in his presence. To think all he was doing was sitting there, carefully listening, his neutral expression unable to betray the many gears in motion within his mind. "I’m terrified this is only the beginning of its symptoms" she confessed, her eyes shutting tight as the monster within her stirred, lurking just beneath the surface, whispering sinister promises into her ear. It was a constant, haunting reminder of its presence.

She inhaled deeply as if summoning the courage to keep the beast at bay, before downing the rest of her drink in a single, desperate gulp. "It scares me," she breathed, her voice so soft that only he could hear, her eyes locking into his with a fear that mirrored that of a frightened child.

Before she could speak further, Harvey appeared beside them with another drink. She glanced at him, forcing a soft, strained smile, before retreating into her seat, the momentary reprieve doing little to quell the feeling "The bear," she said hoping he would understand her comparison of Roman, "has already fallen victim to the Affliction but thankfully it was a fleeting moment for it." she admitted shamefully.

“Bear? Hmm… that's one way to describe him, I guess.” Alexander's tone should have been lighter but Violet confirming the abnormal severity of her bloodthirst left him somewhat disturbed. He was aware it was greater than usual, but he figured it was part of some kink or just slightly off. However, her bloodthirst seemed to match someone under the curse for some decades. “And I assume a fleeting moment isn't enough. Now do you understand my concern, especially with your preferred methods of getting what you need? Why I became worried and upset?”

“I understood it from the start, but your tone doesn’t fix things. Getting upset won't fix this." She sighed "I’m not sure what will. Maybe the noose like you suggested." It was clear by her expression that it was something she had contemplated for a long time. "I did receive a rather interesting proposal from an unsuspecting party. I don't know if the proposal would be very safe considering the situation with the Bear. This would be more, scheduled. Exchange of sorts." She hoped he could read between the lines. “I denied it but the offer was left on the table. Perhaps that is a solution but I'm not sure that it would be enough. What if….the proposal ends permanently?" She shook her head softly "Rats are disposable. This wouldn’t be the same."

“Enough dead rats create a scene, Scarlett. And I doubt you're some divine judge. Some rodents come in packs, have litters. Others might be bigger than you perceive them to be.” He leaned in with his eyes wide. “Every day means catching one of them without a witness. That will not last as a primary means. You have two. Two others who know the truth outside of your family. Use them and endure whatever pain you experience…” Alexander sighed as he sat back and readied himself to present the other option. “And if… If you don't wish to do things that way, I can assist you in forfeiting from this grand game. It would be painless, quick. A mercy, I promise.” His voice was barely above a whisper now.

Thoughts raced through her mind as his words hit her to her core. She sat in silence taking in all that he said. She didn’t have a jab or a remark to make. His offering to end her life so effortlessly and emotionless sent another hit to her belly. She found herself in constant reminders of just how calculating Alexander was. So displaced.

In the end, none of that mattered when his words held so much truth. "Can’t have your new employee go missing on the first day..." She offered him a soft, defeated smile before taking a sip of her new drink. “I guess I have some people to reach out to.”

“Do what you must, Scarlett,” Alexander commented using a phrase he used regularly. He could only give Violet the smallest of smiles. However small, it was a warm one hinting at the small spark of optimism he might be feeling. Yet as genuine as it seemed, there was so much lurking behind it.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Violet
&
Alexander

1

Time: After Midnight 🦉
Location: Back Alley in the Slums
Mention: Roman @ReusableSword, Fritz/Ryn @JJ Doe, Calbert and Liliane Damien

---

As night loomed, Violet had snuck out of her home once again. Although this time, with her mother’s promise of privacy, she found more ease moving around. The guards and ladies, who seemed to never sleep, kept a watchful eye but didn’t motion to stop her.

Changing into a thin and light black night dress, Violet covered her pale skin with a heavy black fur cloak, similar to the one she wore the night before. She made her way back to the slums, keeping as low of a profile as she could.

Stalking down the back alley, past all the fumbling drunks and shady people, Violet was able to track the smell of death. Although the stench was rampant here, this was strong. Fresh.

It didn’t take her long to find the piece of shit man who she had killed the night before. Still slumped over and blending in with the trash. She needed to come up with a plan on where to hide him. Permanently.

“The count didn't help you with this one? And here I thought that man to be a gentleman of sorts.” Alexander's voice burst through the silence as if he had been continuing an already had conversation. His voice had been filled with the same level of snark as when Violet and he had met for the first time at the stable. Its abruptness startled Violet, causing her to let out a long, drawn-out breath while keeping her back to the familiar presence that had decided to tag along, only adding to her frustrations on this already unbearable night.

Approaching from her rear, it was apparent Alexander had been trailing her through the foul-smelling slums. With his hands in his pockets, he walked until the tips of his leather shoes were about an inch from the corpse, looking down at it with a rather stern expression.
Violet called out rhetorically, her voice heavy with defeat. “Can this night really get any better?” Tilting her head back, she gazed up at the night sky, the stars offering little comfort. As she leaned back, the thick black hood of her cloak slipped off her head, revealing her raven-colored hair that seemed to drink in the moonlight. The pale illumination from the moon cast a soft glow on her porcelain complexion, highlighting her sharp features. Her red eyes, glistening like rubies in the night, peered over her shoulder to see Alexander standing there, his hands casually tucked into his pockets and a smug expression plastered on his face.
“If you're here because of that search party my mother so perfectly orchestrated, then Roman already beat you to it…” Violet paused, her tone dropping as a bitter edge crept into her voice, “…or slapped, I should say.” She hadn’t clued into the fact that he was speaking of the night prior, her mind was so focused on the events this evening she had nearly forgotten about Count Fritz. Her drinking bender had certainly helped with that.
Bending down to her knees, Violet began to rummage through the dead man's pockets.
“Oh Scarlett…” Alexander shook his head and chuckled lightly before his facial expression snapped to one as cold as the peaks of Krasivaya. “I think you mean the search party that was meant to end the night of the masquerade party. And because you didn't return like you were meant to…” Her eyes dropped down as her hands moved idly with no clear direction as her mind filled back to the night of the party. She had full intention to go but hearing the laughter and music filled her with more rage than she was willing to admit.
Alexander crouched beside Violet “...this happened, didn't it? And probably much more. Allow me to be direct with you.” Alexander removed a hand from his pockets and used just two fingers to gently guide her face by her jawline until she faced him, but to his surprise, she flinched, moving backward away from his touch, causing her balance to shift as she fell, onto her hip beside the lifeless man. Alexander let loose a short exhale of annoyance but would still stick to asking his question.
“Did anyone discover your secret? Don't you lie.”
Her heart dropped for just a moment until she realized her situation. In a softer motion, as if to play off the flinch as nothing, she shifted back on her knees, continuing to remove the trash and items from his pockets.
Refusing to make eye contact with him, she responded to his question. “I died a very public death, you’d be an idiot if you think some people wouldn’t know or suspect my condition,” her tone chilled the air around them. “especially within a circle of such nosey and all-knowing some of them believe themselves to be.“ she added.
Alexander rose, standing up, the moonlight casting his shadow onto her and the corpse she had become so familiar with again.
“And you’d be foolish if you think I will repeat myself. Answer the question I asked. I don’t need the assumptions of the few, the masses, the king, the queen, or Duke Vikena’s damned ferret!” Alexander positioned himself so his shadow was no longer obstructing Violet’s view of the man, but it was only so he could further place himself in her direct line of sight. “Now, your second attempt to answer, go.”
Violet was finishing with her task and removing all items from his pockets, she reached for some discarded rope that lay nearby, bringing it towards her, attempting to ignore Alexander's clear advances at her. “You caught me.” She shook her head faking a sad expression. “I told the Ferret. But don't worry, I ate him afterward so there is nothing left. Oh! And I also told the stable boy's parents … let's see who else?” Her red eyes looked at him unamused by his statements. “Count Fritz knows but I didn’t tell him. He made a strange request that I refused. Roman …” her voice dropped and her shoulders relaxed down as her mind continued to remind her of what just happened not long before this.

Her eyes moved to look down at the man's feet as she began to aggressively string up his ankles together in the rope. “I attacked him.” She tied off the knot before standing to her feet. “He- … It’s fine. I don't think he’ll tell anyone. He was understanding or so I thought.” Her eyes darkened once again as this time she looked at him. “I haven’t breathed a word about you, or that night…or anything to anyone. Not even in passing conversation. You don't need to worry about me Alexander, I’m sure you have better things to take care of.” She reached down to grab the stack of ropes that were tied around the man's ankles and attempted to pull him toward the direction of the back of the alley but it failed to move with Alexander’s foot stepping on the rope.
“Normally…” Alexander took a breath to calm himself as he was seething now. “Violet. I believe you misunderstand the situation. We, you and I. We need each other. And if I need you, Violet, then I can’t simply allow you to out yourself to every other Varian official visiting Sorian. You might as well kill yourself to speed up the process with the way you are doing things. And seeing that you haven’t jumped off a high place and are at least trying to hide a body you fed on, there’s some sense of self-preservation, right? If I’m wrong, tell me. I’ll kill you right here. It’ll be fast. Heartbreaking but… swift.” He leaned in and whispered. “But we don’t want that, right, Scarlett?”
Violet sucked in her breath as her eyes moved to look at him as he whispered his words and the name Scarlett that left his lips so eloquently.

So, that was the truth of it, he needed her as some kind of pawn. For what, she didn’t know but he certainly had his way with words. She could feel the fear he intended her to feel, the dread of death. Why was she caring so much to cover up the body? The question vexed even her. Did it dismantle her words? Her stance? No.

It wasn’t for her…
She wanted to utter the words. They sat at the tip of her tongue but something stopped her from omitting the truth. She wanted it to end. She needed it to end. “Perhaps that is the point” she whispered back as her eyes moved to meet his, her voice low and soft-spoken like a secret she was sharing. “After tonight, there is no search party, no one will come looking…I’ll just fade off into memory,” She dropped her grip on the rope as the man’s leg hit the ground with a thud. “making sure there is nothing left to find, no one else it could point to… she said softly, her words leading to him.
“But you wouldn’t kill me.” She stepped back from him, her voice returning to normal as her back pressed against the alley wall. “Because if you really wanted to, you wouldn’t have taken me to the barn to help me. You also would have killed me sooner because I was a liability.” she offered him a cheeky smile “You’re too smart for that…”
“Charming…” Alexander nodded with pursed lips that quickly formed into a grin as he held back an instinctive chuckle. One he had practiced so many times when amongst those who had deeply aggravated him so he could keep face. “Charming, defiant, and oh so snarky, Scarlett… I can’t help but be a little proud, especially if we’re mentioning the night at the barn.” Alexander let loose a deceptively defeated sigh while raising both hands. “You called my bluff. I wouldn’t kill you. Liability or not, I can’t bring myself to do it.” For the first time during their confrontation, Alexander averted his gaze from Violet’s, feigning weakness. “I only wish to cooperate with you.” He took a step toward her and reached down to grab the rope. Violet mimicked his actions without realizing as she too reached for the rope again, and they both proceeded to move the man’s body. “You and I. No one here could understand us like we do each other. Not a single soul, Scarlett.” Her crimson eyes looked up to meet his as his words sunk in.
Reminders of the evening's events cemented that statement even more for her, but regardless, she was a monster. With her little experience in her new life, she couldn’t help but wonder just how monstrous this man was. Violet's eyes fell on the man as she used her strength to lift his legs. ”My mother…she um...” she stuttered slightly unsure of if she wanted the answer to this question. Alexander raised an eyebrow. Is such a delicate flower yet so tempting to pluck. The intrusive thought brought a pleasant smile to Alexander's visage.
“Yes?”
“She mentioned I would only need to do this maybe weekly…she brought me some kind of reserve that would hold me over for long periods of time.” Her eyes glanced back up at him as she attempted to lead them deeper into the alley. “Is that true?” Her question straightened his lips, removing any trace of the smile he once wore.
“Hm… Unfortunately, no.” The words held a tinge of defeat in them as her question in itself revealed the answer to him in real-time. Despite this unsettling truth, he maintained eye contact. The playfulness was long gone now. “Unless you have some strange inclinations toward…” He nodded toward the corpse. “... it couldn't be true in the slightest, Scarlett. I’m afraid you have a unique problem at hand.” He’d allow his words to stew so that she might feel the gravity of the situation.
“I see.” Her head turned to look ahead of them. Fear sunk into her belly as she was afraid of the reality of her situation. All she could see was darkness as they continued to head deeper into the alley. She led them towards a sewer hole nearby that would be a perfect spot not far from where they were. It wouldn’t be abnormal to find discarded bodies and other unpleasantries below these streets.
The expression on Violet's face could be read like a book, the utter disappointment in hearing Alexander's words hit her like a train. Not only was she cursed to live out her life with this need of survival with blood but the fixation and mindless obsession that came along with it.

She envied Alexander. He made it seem so easy. She could maybe one day have a life, a family. Her mind casually reminded her of what happened when she kissed Roman. The feeling of darkness that had swarmed her then. The primal desire to bleed him dry in that moment, as if some creature attempted to possess her body and mind. She was glad she had left before it could consume her. The ghostly sting on her cheek was another reminder of what she was to those around her. She was a problem.

Attempting to break the silence, she caused her eyes to dart to him and then in front of them as they reached the large hole that was covered by a half-rusted bar grate. She stopped in front of it. “I figured I'd just dump him down there,” she said looking into the sewer hole as a putrid smell rose from it. She covered her nose with the corner of her cloak whilst Alexander turned his head slightly from the foul stench.
“It’ll do, I guess,” Alexander commented plainly. He was indifferent to what Violet planned to do with the body.
“I’m sorry, I’ve never had to find places to dump bodies before…” she groaned as her shoulders dropped in defeat. Alexander was sure he'd request for this corpse to be disposed of by his associates later but that wasn't something she needed to know. Using her foot Violet kicked the body down the hole with some force while ensuring he went in without issue.
“And don't fret about the drinking problem. I’m sure we can figure something out. You still have your mind, your wit, your sanity, and of course, you’re a gorgeous young woman.” He shrugged, adding to his minimization of her problem. “You just need to remain satiated, right? You could make use of the two sympathetic men who know your secret, continue to prey on and get lucky with the forgettables like this one here, or allow me to coordinate something with Lily to supply her with more than what she's giving you. Endure for a few years and before you know it, the cure will be placed right in your lap, Scarlett.” He playfully poked her side to lighten the mood, though he was gauging how she planned to handle this dilemma with her own wit.

The poke to her side distracted her momentarily from his words as her sour expression softened to a half smile, her sharp fang peeking through her top lip. “I don't want my mother involved with this,”
“You don’t?” Alexander’s brow furrowed with slight concern yet his tone was lathered in wonder.
Reaching down, Violet moved the grate back over the sewer hole. “She’s worried enough, I'd rather her think things are okay. She has Crystal to look after and I don't want to add more stress onto her.” She knew, though, that his description of her condition was far from her truth. Violet’s mind was going by the day and she never felt satiated. Her looks could certainly help draw those around her that she intended to harm, but it drew in the ones she didn’t intend to hurt as well. Her looks were nothing more than bait and her dream of living a normal life was futile because she wasn’t normal. She would never be normal.
“Right…well.” She looked around, slightly nervous to be around him. “I am far too awake to be on my way home, and I’ll only get more restless than I am if I return now. Care to join me for a drink? It's the least I could offer.”
“I usually don't fancy establishments that would be open at this time, but I'd gladly welcome the change of scenery.” He took a moment to look around at what the filthy alley had to offer. “Come, I think I know a place close by. And on the way, you can tell me who you’ll have to assist you in your binge drinking, if not your dear mother.”
Continuing beside him, Violet was curious as to where he had in mind. She was more comfortable finding a shady tavern, but the idea of something new excited her slightly. Truthfully, she thought about preying on the feeble-minded, poor folk. Tossing them aside like the trash they were. The shady men who stalked women in the late hours of the night attempting to do all sorts of unsavory things to them in their drunken states. She couldn’t care less what happened to them. Curious, however, to the idea of what happened back in the tavern with Roman. The feeling of life, excitement … feeling like a woman again and not some monster. Although that feeling was short-lived, it sat in the back of her mind. She never thought of herself as that type of lady but the emotions it brought made her feel so alive.

Could she replicate that with any man she encountered? The thoughts continued to spin but were not a topic of conversation to have with a happily married man.
“I hadn’t put much thought into it.” she said, breaking the silence “I’m not sure I can control myself, nor do I feel trust towards anyone enough to allow that kind of intimacy, I suppose.” It was rather intimidating to think of sharing such a private moment with someone. “I suppose that is a perk to your marriage, having someone you could possibly count on for such things. Even just as a supportive person in your life… It's rather lonely without it.” Her voice dropped.
“Marriage?” Alexander let loose a light chuckle. The gesture was his only means of escaping despair, a feeling capable of crushing that charming mask of his. “It’s much more than that. Remember this well, Scarlett, this curse made from love… this affliction requires and ruins the two people involved.” He briefly held up two fingers. “By design, your mother should be the one who supports you through this new life. She is responsible, so the burden should be hers. However, if not her, then someone informed of your state who loves you enough to take your hand and walk along this vile path of murder, loss, and secrets.” The two were nearly out of the alley now. Just several more steps.
“Can you trust Lord Ravenwood with that? And would you be prepared to expose him to such a path?”

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Town Square, North Pass
Interaction: Zeva @Pink Khione
Mention:
Equipment:Fancy Ring, Cold Ring (with Zeva), Oak Wood Staff, Brown Leather Fingerless Channeling Gloves (not worn), Transmission Bracelet, 659 Amas.

---

A lot has changed since arriving at North Pass. With the sudden departure of most of the members of their group, Mister Luum was left with none other than the young elf, Zeva. It wasn't the most favorable of circumstances but Mister Luum wouldn't let this setback keep him down. The two were currently heading to the town square so they could undertake one of the several outstanding bounties posted on a notice board.

Upon entering the town square, there were a few things that might grab their attention.

Abuse of Power
With the search for rebels and humans becoming such a high priority, soldiers and city guards had free reign to search, seize, and detain at their discretion. It was disgusting how openly they pulled patrons from inns and drug citizens across the cold cobblestone due to perceived suspicion. Most times, those under suspicion were dragged to the North Pass guard post for “further questioning,” but other times, the soldiers had no shame in conducting their interrogations for the public eye to see.

Shops
Though not the priority, shops were open and available for the two to indulge in. Besides standard weapons, armor, and general shops found in most places in Avalia, guests of North Pass could quench their thirst at The Winter WIllow or experience the local North Pass cuisine at Utada’s Hot Food restaurant. The Winter Willow bar not only serves alcoholic drinks, but hot drinks to warm up for two amas per serving, while the restaurant offers their local dishes for eight amas per serving.

Utada’s Hot Food Menu
Noodle Soup with the catch of the day, seafood broth, eggs and vegetables
Rice cakes wrapped in leaves
Rice bowl with choice of meat, vegetables and soybean sauce
Fried rice with tajokel sauce
Chicken curry
Shrimp and seaweed wraps
Onion pancakes with a tajokel-snowberry sauce
Dumplings with any filling

Notice Board
Then finally, exactly what they were searching for! Many people looking to earn some amas crowded around the notice board that offered several jobs. There were posters for criminals including known rebels, posters for violent creatures, and odd jobs that needed to be taken care of. The odd jobs were the quickest to be snatched from the board, followed by hunting of less dangerous quarries. All that remained were posters offering amas for vicious foes. An aggressive pack of dire wolves in the area, a gang of elusive bandits, the ever-hungry twin ogres named Gorm and Mrog. An additional poster served as a warning for no one to enter the ruins of the far north of the island.

“Hey Zeva. Do you see it?” Mister Luum snickered before he pointed his staff at the additional poster. “There is indeed something grand in those ruins. BUT, for now, just pick something else. I'll need a few warm ups in this absolutely terrible weather before we tackle something serious. Especially since someone has my ring…” He grumbled the last bit.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Square, North Pass
Interaction:
Mention: Bardulf @Lava Alckon, Rue, Bowyn @Helo

---

Brigitte was glad to accompany the others in the group but found herself already beginning to miss Mister Luum. Her master being left at the cabin with Zeva made her feel even more discomfort. To put herself at ease, she placed her focus on her surroundings, something that made good practice for her high level of observation. This left her distracted yet also disturbed as she took in everything around her. The treatment of citizens by the Avalian soldiers reminded her of her past life, working at the Riverport Casino where she suffered harsh conditions while having to be subjected to whatever her previous masters desired.

There had been a peculiar moment that pulled her attention toward Rue, the winter fairy who seemed to mask her pain and worry with an endearing smile and selfless acts of kindness. If it weren’t for Briggite’s acute senses, she might have never picked up on Rue’s behavior, especially after she was handed something to read. Whatever it was, it bothered Rue greatly and caused her to silently yearn for a moment to speak to Bowyn. It was the way she kept searching for his eyes without overtly attempting to grab his attention. She wanted him to see her without anyone else knowing, and Brigitte figured it was only right to grant the winter fairy that comfort. When Bardulf approached the notice board, Brigitte placed herself beside him.

Meanwhile, Rue informed Bowyn that she needed to return to the Winter Fairy Village, that something horrible might happen there, and that only she could prevent it. Rue wished she could tell him more but she had the feeling she was being watched. She loved Bowyn and hated to keep anything from him but she didn’t want to risk the innocent lives being threatened. Threatened by none other than the ones who had forced her to fight for her life day in and day out. She knew this day might come. No one simply escapes and steals from the Underground. They wanted their talent and property back and would leverage her care for others to get just that. Rue fought against her tears and her desire to have a long goodbye but she had to go. She had to face the devil once more, the fiend that twisted her until she was something else.

“I will return.” She was unsure if those words were only Bowyn or also an affirmation to herself as she squeezed his hand. Even if they reunited, would she be the same person standing before him? Would the eyes that peered into his be the same? Filled with the same…

A lone tear slipped from one of her eyes, the very thing to signal her departure. Swiftly, Rue flew off. First, she would go to Starfire, and the two would leave from North Pass, southbound.

As Bardulf returned with the bounty poster, ready to hand it to Bowyn, Brigitte snatched it. She held it up and placed herself between Bowyn and Bardulf.

“Ah, a pack of dire wolves. Good idea, Bardulf. I can practice using my bow… well if Mister Luum allows it. He didn’t the last time with the owlbear even though I’m a really good shot. I think… I think it’s because he has a lot of faith in you. He wants to see if you can do what he hopes you can do,” Brigitte smiled, echoing one of Mister Luum’s odd saying.

Avalia

Time: Morning Meeting Time
Location: Lumineer Cottage, North Pass
Interaction: Zeva @Pink Khione
Mention:
Equipment:Fancy Ring, Cold Ring (with Zeva), Oak Wood Staff, Brown Leather Fingerless Channeling Gloves (not worn), Transmission Bracelet, 659 Amas.

---

Though Mister Luum kept up his happy-go-lucky expression, there was a slight twitch to it as he began to find Zeva slightly troublesome. It was far from enough to wish her any harm, and her presence as a young member of his race greatly outweighed their differences.

“Of course you don’t see the big picture, Zeva. You’re not meant to worry about things like that. You’re more of a fighter, yes! My fighter! My young and proud and rambunctious elven fighter! Zeva.” He bounced his index finger toward her as he said her name just to add a little extra to his buttering up of her. The same index finger stabbed at the smudged marker on the map, making an intentional attention-grabbing tap. “And as for my sureness, Zeva. I am sure that there are ruins here. Untapped in fact. I am sure that there is a very dangerous creature here. It is probably why no one comes from the place with anything meaningful. And finally, I am sure that you, Zeva, my young and proud and rambunctious and talented and graceful elven fighter, will have to go to these ruins and fight this very creature alongside the other… I am just not sure if it’s the last big thing that occurs here on this terribly cold island.” He shrugged while removing his finger from the map. “Oh! And don’t worry about what the creature is. I have my guesses but no one who survived it has been close enough to identify it and I am not one to push my bias onto the young and impressionable. It’s big, cold, and eats people. Most I can say.”

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Camp of the misfits
Interaction: @princess Mari, @Apex Sunburn Scathael, FIVE @shiningsector

---

The wheels had begun turning between the group members about how to deal with Vallana. Thraash was not particularly married to any idea, only hoping the majority agreed on something so they could get moving. He yearned for action and amas in that exact order, especially since his skirmish with FIVE at the Nest hadn’t scratched that itch. If anything, lying on the ground for most of the brawl left him quite teased for combat. He held his instrument of chaos in his grasp, and string by string, he quietly checked its tuning.

“None taken,” Thraash had piped in when Scathael mentioned the girl being in better hands with a hungry dragon that of cheap help. Even if the dragonborn had a more sensitive disposition, he couldn’t deny the cruelty of a hungry dragon. The only thing worse would be a vengeful dragon, a creature that would slew your family, friends, and livestock followed by using the remnants of what used to be your home to mark the mass murder. Then there was the matter of the relation Thraash had to true dragons. The special treatment given to dragonborns by dragons could barely even be considered special. The likelihood of being burned, frozen, or melted was far less than other races but that was usually as far as social relations went.

Mari stepping up to take responsibility for the child seemed strange to Thraash, but only for a moment. This situation was unique for them as a pair, but not so much when it came to Mari. Her actions made sense, knowing her and the hell she crawled from all those years ago. Probably sees herself in the little one. Makes sense.

Scathael’s second mention of not meaning to offend Thraash warranted a scoff. He removed one of his hands from his instrument and slid it across his opposite arm.

“I’m far from soft, Dark Elf. You’re gonna need sharper words than that to offend me.” He said with a hint of a grin. “Besides your spot on. Mari and the rabbit girl are the only ones that’ll even return a smile. I’m too solid for the soft-as-baby-shit type of bonding, you have the meanest fucking stoneface I’ve ever seen. I mean you’re neck and neck with Five when it comes to facial expressions and…” Thraash motioned his hand pointedly to the face of the Warforged. “...yeah. Anyway, it sounds like we got our shit together when it comes to our little VIP. I’ll be the loudest thing out there besides the screams of agony, so feel free to pop a few shots if they’re worth somethin’.”

Most at least a rough outline of a formation planned out and food served, the group could get moving. It was about time they killed something.

Young Justice

_{E P I S O D E SIX : R E F L E C T I O N S}

DIRTY BUSINESS

SOUNDTRACK

T H E E V E R G L A D E S

---

^{September 17th, 2021 | 15:30pm. | Everglades National Park, Florida}

The team had split but they were far from divided. Inside the base, Iceburn, Quiver, Rain, and Mirage were attempting to find the chemical compound being put to use at this location. Outside of the base, Stormcaller, Zatara, Nymph, and Talos drew the attention of the enemy that attacked with firearms, hi-tech weaponry, and metahuman abilities. One group was faced with the stress of facing the majority of the forces stationed at the facility, while the other was faced with the stress of trying to locate the objective as soon as possible. If one group failed, the other was doomed, though this was not unknown to them. Those outside fought against their foes with tenacity while the others within were swift and decisive against the obstacles against them.

Outside
Much was happening. A sudden thunderstorm, magic blobs, and flying metahumans. With Vincent’s attention going from one enemy to another, Daphne was left to face the woman who had the ability to send the ominous gravitational orbs. It was good that he had thrown a spear into the first one she generated, as it had grabbed Daphne’s attention. She had been busy attempting to incapacitate henchmen to notice previously. However, when Vincent had thrown the spear, the metahuman woman’s giant green orb pulled the projectile into itself. Daphne still could not understand what this ability was but she knew that she couldn’t get too close to it. Perhaps she could try what Vincent was previously attempting to do before he was hit with the bolas. Daphne decided to continue using her petal form to pacify the henchmen but in reality, she was maneuvering closer and closer to the woman using her ability to expand the green orb. The green orb seemed to have a new target now, climbing into the air while continuing to expand.

Meanwhile, a more direct confrontation was occurring as Vincent flew toward the metahuman floating above. The bearded metahuman briefly had his attention on Cora’s display in the sky but couldn’t just ignore the person flying at him. The man chuckled to himself as he found his response to Vincent’s charge rather humorous. First, he pointed at Vincent, and then with same finger, he pointed downward. Vincent would feel an invisible force pulling him down toward the mud.

At the same time, the man with the multicolored electricity took advantage of Vincent going after his associate and quickly intercepted Zatara’s path. The blonde guy squared up on Zach for half a second before attempting to do him in like Houdini, firing a swift gut punch while still wearing his charm smirk. If hit, Zach wouldn’t feel more pain than he’d expected. The punch wasn’t all that painful despite how the guy threw it… Instead, Zach would begin to strongly experience the feeling of doubt.

Inside
With the four guards swiftly taken out, the infiltration group was presented with the opportunity to enter the garage area. The option of doubling back to go deeper into the facility was also available, though it did not appear to be necessary. If the group decided to enter the doors to the garage, they’d find themselves faced with a quickly alert guard force of up to half a dozen men. The guards are equipped with the hi-tech weapons the team experienced at the bank.

If the team chose to travel deeper into the facility instead of the garage, they would experience traversing long narrow hallways lined with a few empty office spaces before coming across a large dim-lit windowless room that appeared to be empty. However, a keen eye could make out the figures hugging the room’s shadows.

Make your choice.

Young Justice

Viktor Rain | Kassy Mirage

Within the short decision-making window, the raid squad had made their choice to assault the guards in the hall. Iceburn had taken the initiative, freezing one of the four guards. Quiver made haste in capitalizing on the frozen enemy to take out the next, trapping him in his own foam. If this swift takedown were to be successful, Kassy and Viktor would need to act now.

“Mirage.” Viktor urged as he was stationed at the very rear of the group.

Mirage was third in line, impressed with the swift and clean execution. She would have to congratulate them somehow after they got home. And after she sat in the sea for a day or two. She didn't want to say it, but she was beginning to feel unwell.

Illusion masking for herself was easy. Illusion masking for 4 people was harder. She could feel her magic pushing against the bounds that Atlantis had set on it. Her head throbbed like someone was playing a drumbeat, in time with the hot pressure of the cuff on her wrist. There was no time for this, though. Nothing for it but to keep going.

With the other two revealed, it did lessen the strain. And Rain could handle himself. "Go. Quick." She disappeared completely with that. There was a brief look of note from Viktor, his tinted visor masking his raised eyebrow. He had presumed she'd try to engage at least one of the enemies but that possibility was dead and gone as his body instinctively moved to dispatch their remaining foes.

Rifle in hand, Viktor rushed forth, firing a taser round into one of the two henchmen's legs as they reacted to the speed in which their colleagues were being taken out. He barely yelped before Viktor closed the distance between them with his inhuman speed, crushing the man between himself and the wall. With the first man pinned and losing consciousness, Viktor had his barrel raised to the next who had already had Viktor in his crosshairs.

"Gh-"The soldier gasped suddenly, the crosshairs of his gun wavering. Then the gun dropped as he clutched his neck. Kassy flickered in and out of sight like a dying bulb. Her gold-gauntleted arm was wrapped firmly around the soldier's neck, and the man's panicked gasps were terribly silent. It was like a horror movie on mute.

She stopped squeezing as soon as she felt her foe lose consciousness and slump in her arms. She kicked the fallen gun aside before setting the man against a wall. "...phew." Slowly, she exhaled as she pushed back her damp white curls. "Well done."

“Yeah. No more cloaking for now. I think we should hit the garage next. What we're looking for might be inside as well as a vehicle we can use for extraction.”

Kassy nodded, looking off for a moment before deciding to speak her mind. "Have I gotten used to failure… or is this too easy?"

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Lumineer Cottage, North Pass
Interaction: Zeva @Pink Khione
Mention: Bardulf @Lava Alckon
Equipment:Fancy Ring, Cold Ring (with Zeva), Oak Wood Staff, Brown Leather Fingerless Channeling Gloves (not worn), Transmission Bracelet, 659 Amas.

---

Mister Luum had been grinning ear to ear as his finger pressed against the skull indicated on the map. It would present the group with much needed mental and physical stress. The perfect challenge!
The elf brimmed with an excitement that helped him forget the cold of North Pass.

Unfortunately, it had not distracted him from the soft patter sound of water droplets against the map's surface. Mister Luum turned to stare at Zeva, smile vanished and eyes wide as she mentioned the skull on the map. His emotional response would be to simply move her from hovering over the map but the sight of his cold ring on her finger reminded him of the remaining ring still on his hand. Contact with her in that way was out of the question.

Where is that staff? He thought as he found his hands free of the magical channeling instrument.

“Zeva,” He addressed calmly. It was all he could get out as another droplet fell but he was quick to catch it in his index and middle finger with a wince before continuing. “Two things. One, you are dripping on the map with your thawing.” He pointed at her hair with one hand while the other slid the map away from her. “And two, what do you mean by skull?” He drew his full attention to the map, the skull now smudged to the point where it was unrecognizable. His smile returned, this time with a glint of playfulness.

“Skull or no skull, it's an old ruin of a place that might have some clues in helping Bardulf do the big thing he's meant to do!” He briefly raised his arms to denote the ‘big thing’ as vaguely as anyone possibly could. “Don't worry, Ears, it'll be the North Pass finale… I think… uh, I hope. Yeah.” Mister Luum shrugged as if it didn't matter either way.

Avalia

Time: Morning Meeting Time
Location: Lumineer Cottage, North Pass
Interaction: Zeva @Pink Khione Bardulf @Lava Alckon, Rue @Potter, Bowyn @Helo, Brigitte, Masako @dreamingflowers
Mention:
Equipment:Fancy Ring, Cold Ring (with Zeva or Bardulf), Oak Wood Staff, Brown Leather Fingerless Channeling Gloves (not worn), Transmission Bracelet, 659 Amas.

---

With things slowly rolling along and the party moving toward hashing out their respective roles and responsibilities for today, the meeting smoothly transitioned to a close. It was subtle, yet natural, like their goal in maintaining their cover. As good as things were, Mister Luum knew well enough it would not last. King Zanithel was aware of the rebellion and the humans summoned from elsewhere. To make matters worse he had a decent track record of defeating his foes and was at a good start having executed a human so soon.

Witnessing Bardulf offer Zeva his enchanted ring was something to be noted. He wondered how the man could be so generous and kind. Mister Luum might assume Earth was a soft place, yet Bardulf’s scars and his outburst after the slaying of the owlbear left much to be uncovered about him and his world.

Perhaps this world will fix him to my liking. War is returning after all.

Once the meeting was over, the group split into those going into town for bounty posters and those who would remain at the cabin. Those who went out to the town square would find a vastly different scene than they saw in passing just yesterday. More soldiers and guards were roaming the streets since the announcement of humans, clad in black leather and hide armor. Most were dark elves but not all. There were nearly as many demihumans in their ranks, with dwarves and orcs making up the minority of the troops.

In the town square, there were a few things that might catch the group’s attention.

Abuse of Power
With the search for rebels and humans becoming such a high priority, soldiers and city guards had free reign to search, seize, and detain at their discretion. It was disgusting how openly they pulled patrons from inns and drug citizens across the cold cobblestone due to perceived suspicion. Most times, those under suspicion were dragged to the North Pass guard post for “further questioning,” but other times, the soldiers had no shame in conducting their interrogations for the public eye to see.

Shops
Though no longer the priority, shops were open and available for the group to indulge in. Besides standard weapons, armor, and general shops found in most places in Avalia, guests of North Pass could quench their thirsts at The Winter WIllow or experience the local North Pass cuisine at Utada’s Hot Food restaurant. The Winter Willow bar not only serves alcoholic drinks, but hot drinks to warm up for two amas per serving, while the restaurant offers their local dishes for eight amas per serving.

Utada’s Hot Food Menu
Noodle Soup with the catch of the day, seafood broth, eggs and vegetables
Rice cakes wrapped in leaves
Rice bowl with choice of meat, vegetables and soybean sauce
Fried rice with tajokel sauce
Chicken curry
Shrimp and seaweed wraps
Onion pancakes with a tajokel-snowberry sauce
Dumplings with any filling

Notice Board
This is what the group was looking for! Many people looking to earn some amas crowded around the notice board that offered several jobs. There were posters for criminals including known rebels, posters for violent creatures, and odd jobs that needed to be taken care of. The odd jobs were the quickest to be snatched from the board, followed by hunting of less dangerous quarry. All that remained were posters offering amas for vicious foes. An aggressive pack of dire wolves in the area, a gang of elusive bandits, the ever-hungry twin ogres named Gorm and Mrog. An additional poster served as a warning for no one to enter the ruins of the far north of the island.

Rue
With everything else occurring, this might be most difficult for one to notice. Whether keen or fortunate, attention might be drawn to Rue being bumped into hard enough to let out a soft grunt in annoyance. It was hard to say it was that brushed against her so hard since the group had been moving through the crowded square with much around them grabbing their attention. Rue’s annoyance soon shifts to confusion as she feels something tucked into her leather belt strap. Rue grabs the small crystalline object, a memory glass. The magical image-storing item could display moments captured within it ((snowglobe meets photo slideshow)). She only needed to view it for a mere second. Her eyes widened in shock before she tucked the memory glass away and pretended nothing was amidst.

…

Back at the cabin, Mister Luum got himself up off the floor and ventured through the cabin to Brigitte’s leather bag. He mumbled a few curse words as he dug through it, not being used to its organization.

“Found it! Haha, who wants to help me plan our adventure?!” Mister announced excitedly as he held up a folded-up paper map. He took the map to the cabin’s dining table and splayed it out. “Masako, could stand watch out front?” He asked the warforged who gave a slight bow before providing her assistance. “Thank you,” he grinned as he looked upon the map of none other than North Pass. It was old but had much details to the parts of North Pass few ventured. The map was riddled with markings for creature lairs, shelters, and spots marked with question marks. Mister Luum smiled as his index finger pointed to a marker to the far north depicting a skull. “This should be our last stop, I think.”