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Post by Blindside Tex on Jan 13, 2023 3:14:24 GMT -5
Arastina Dewhold The sound of a pan drum carried through the serene landscape of the forest. The soft tune of a song hung in the air – a beautiful voice of a woman that sat before the flickering flames of a fire. Young children danced about and giggled. Others drank their ale. It was a normal evening for the people of the small wooded village of Ipsy. A young raven haired girl came from a home with a woven basket in hand, the scent of fresh bread carried through the village. She had emerald hues that moved about to look to those that danced and others that shared stories with one another. “Arastina, over here.” A slender tall man with pointed ears called to her. He held the same eyes and a similar brow line to the girl. He grinned as he grasped a warm roll from the basket. “Can’t ever give anyone else the first roll.” He winked. “Make sure your mother gets one.” He took a drink from his wooden mug before someone called his attention. The young girl brushed a lock of hair from her eyes before she glanced to her mother. The woman was nearly a spitting image of her young daughter. She sat near the dancing amber flames of the fire, her thumbs tapped about with a rhythm that was more intricate than any dance that Arastina had ever witnessed. The tune that came from her mother’s lips filled the center of the village with life. As she moved about several grabbed fresh bread rolls from her, and thanked her, but she was sure to save one for her mother whom she eventually came to sit next to. Arastina chimed in with her own voice as she gazed to the fire. Music was something that carried her away into a dreamlike world. It filled her mind with creative thoughts of the vast world outside of her village of Ipsy. Though the world outside of the village was not nearly as whimsical as a young elf might think. The world was full of darkness. Violence. Murder. Hatred. The battle of humans against elves. The battle to merely survive. All these things would become something that Arastina would come to know in time. Even if she begged not to know. Even if she begged for these moments of peace to return. It was on a night much like this that the shadows of the outside world crept in. The tones of instruments carried through the village. They shared in a fresh meat stew as the chill of winter approached. Flakes of snow fluttered through the air and landed within Arastina’s raven locks. She had her hair pulled up into a messy bun with a headband wrapped around the top of her head and gently tied at the base of her skull. Beads were woven into her hair. She held a warm smile upon her lips as she poured a fresh ale for one of the villagers. The pitcher shattered then as something collided with it. Arastina drew in a gasp as she was left with just the handle in her grasp. Her evergreen hues stared to the elven man that hah his mug extended forward for her to fill. The feathers of the quiver of an arrow were pressed into the fabric of his tunic, blood trickled from the wound, his expression was of pain and surprise. His skin grew pale quickly, a perfect shot to the heart. Another arrow whizzed by and caught Arastina by her cheek – it barely grazed against her skin. Just enough to leave a mark. She spun swiftly as the world around her quickly spiraled into chaos. No more did music carry through the center of the village. No more did children giggle and dance. No more did mugs tap together and hearty laughs carry over the fresh dirt paths of the village. Arastina let out a yelp as she was grasped from behind. She slammed her elbow against the ribs of her attacker and as she was released she glanced behind her. A human. Of course. But why? What had the village of Ipsy done to deserve such a fate? That was something that Arastina would never come to grips with. The only thing she had managed to escape with was a bag full of nick nacks and her mothers small pan drum… ** The crunch of an apple carried through the quiet tavern. Arastina leaned against the bar, a bright red apple in hand. She wore black leather armor with a red bandana tied around her neck. Her ears held piercings. She looked almost unapproachable in a way – a rapier at her hip, daggers upon her thighs. It was clear that she knew how to defend herself and quite possibly that she wouldn’t think twice before doing so. “Arastina.” A small pouch of coin clanked upon the table behind her. She glanced over her shoulder to the man that held unkempt hair and a long beard. A grin split her lips then, “Royce. Payment ahead of time?” She questioned with a chuckle as she grasped the pouch in a swift motion. She peered inside to the gold coins a moment before she took another bite of her apple. “What’s the occasion?” She questioned as her emerald hues lifted to look to him. The man chuckled as he watched her, he brushed his fingers through his hair and leaned forward slightly, his elbows pressed into the wood of the countertop. “It’s not from me. But I can’t tell you who the job is from. That’s the whole point. Eh?” He smirked to her a moment before he drew in a breath, “That’s just a taste of the pay though. There’s a note inside as to what you’re supposed to do. I wasn’t told what the job is, Ara.” He tapped the bar before he turned and walked away from her to greet a customer. Arastina took another bite from her apple as she stared to the pouch. She pulled her brows together slightly before she grasped the pouch and swiftly walked from the tavern. She entered the streets of the city. It was full of many different races. She passed halflings, elves, humans...it was as mixing pot of many and a place of all. At least, that is what the Baron of the city led everyone to believe. But even the brightest of stories has a smudge here or there. She shoved the pouch into her own pouch upon her hip as she pulled out the page for instructions. She took the final bite from her apple and tossed it easily without looking into the garbage bin. A whistle came over her lips and then a chuckle. “It’s always got to do with jewels and untold fortune.” She rolled her eyes slightly before she shoved away the piece of paper. She pulled out a few coins and placed them into the frail hands of those that fought to survive their life upon the streets of the city. With any flourishing land – there were always those that fell behind. Those that were crushed so that another could prevail. “Thank you Lady Dewhold.” A young boy spoke as he looked up to her with the fresh shiny coin in his hands. He had a smudge of coal on his cheek, his clothes were worse for wear. He was an orphan. Something that Arastina knew well. Something that drew sadness within her heart. “Not a lady.” She spoke with a smirk upon her lips as she gazed over her shoulder to him. “Just call me Arastina would you? See you later Julian.” She grinned before she scaled up a fire escape. She did so with finesse and soon enough she zipped upon the rooftops with feather light steps. She leaped down onto a balcony and waltzed into her rooftop home – a small apartment that she’d rented from the owner who stayed in the rest of the home below. She tossed herself onto her bed and let out a sigh as her muscles relaxed to the soft fabric of her linens. She waited until the cover of night. As the moon lifted into the sky Arastina walked through the streets. Her eyes glanced to those that moved about. The variety ranged from nobles to a homeless commoner. Though as she drew closer to her target a groan came over her lips. She crossed her arms over her chest as she stared to the building – a parted seemed to be happening. Of course. She pressed her lips together as she walked the streets. She took in the mansion from every angle. Soon enough Arastina vaulted over the fence that surrounded the property. She moved through the shadows as if she was a shadow herself, her bandana was pulled up over the bridge of her nose to leave only her eyes visible. She swiftly scaled up a lattice that had thick vines within in it. She found herself on the third floor balcony. Arastina crept forward to the door and gently tried the handle. It was locked tight. A smirk curved up her lips as she slipped her lock pick from her boot. She inserted it and a few clicks later that handle turned freely. She slipped into the darkness of an office space. Her eyes gazed about for the item that she was contracted to steal. It was a life that was filled with crime – but with the money she made she helped those that she could. In a way she was much like a robin hood. To steal from the rich and give to the poor. She quickly looked through the drawers of the desk and in cabinets. Only to find that she came up empty handed. She crept through the shadows of the home as she listened to the music from below. The laughter that carried through the home. She pushed open another door and slipped inside. Arastina gazed around the bedroom that she was now in. She shuffled through the dresser, the side tables, the closet. A chest that sat against the wall. Nothing. A stifled groan came from the elf before she moved to the hall once again. Arastina moved down the staircase to the second level. Lights were on, on this level. She cursed silently to herself as she slipped from shadow to shadow effortlessly. Footsteps sounded from the hall ahead of her which caused her eyes to widen slightly. She glanced about and just as a man dressed in fine clothing rounded the corner she slipped behind the drapes of a curtain. She held her breath as she listened to him walk along. The moment passed and she quickly slipped down the hallway and rounded the corner. She pushed a door open and grinned as she looked about the room. A sitting room with a Decatur on a coffee table. Fine art lined the walls. This was it. She could feel it. The elf shifted through things quickly and then as she opened up a cabinet she saw the glint of a blue jewel. “Oh...” She breathed as she reached forward and pulled a bracelet from its resting place. It was silver with blue jewels embedded into it. It had inscriptions in a language that she didn’t recognize. It was a beautiful piece. Clearly important to whomever she was collecting it for. She slipped the piece into her pouch just as the door to the room opened. Arastina crouched swiftly behind the couch as she heard someone stagger into the room. The giggle of a woman followed. She rolled her eyes. The sound of a kiss before the man offered a drink. The two sat on the couch that she was hidden behind. Her eyes glanced up to the cabinet – she’d left it wide open. She bit her lip and closed her eyes a smokey mist surrounded her and she disappeared from the room into the hallway just outside. She sucked in a breath as she stood and started to walk back the way she’d come. But the sound of footsteps quickly drove her back the other direction. Arastina moved with speed and the sound of footsteps coming from another direction caught her attention. She pressed her lips together slightly as she switched directions and quickly pushed into a room. She leaned against the door as she looked about. It was a large walk in closet. “The bracelet!” She heard a voice from the hallway. “Someone stole it! Where is it!” The voice was full of anger. Arastina winced slightly. This wasn’t going to plan at all. This was a far cry from the smooth nature of her usual jobs. She heard footsteps swiftly move about. Other muffled shouts could be heard through the hall on the other side of the door. She shifted quickly to the back of the closet and moved behind clothing just as the door burst open. “What are you looking in there for? It’s just a closet.” A voice called. “Get it back! No one leaves!” The door slammed shut again. Arastina’s back pressed against something hard. A handle. She turned it slowly and gazed down the chute. She bit her lip slightly before she climbed inside and slid down the chute and landed with a thud at the bottom. Cold cement floor. She groaned slightly as she stood and dusted herself off. She could hear commotion upstairs. People shouted. The music was gone. She knew this wasn’t a good situation to be in. A lantern dimly illuminated the area as she gazed around. She heard something. Her brows tugged together as she rounded the corner around a set of stairs to investigate. |
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Post by Raven on Jan 13, 2023 20:10:29 GMT -5
 Curtis Payton There once was a tale of a young man, cherished by the King as the son he seemingly never had. Baylar Payton was once the Hand of King Rayclair. This man would go down in history as the man who ended the brutal War of Tides, which poised the Humans and Elves against each other over land disputes, and racial concerns. Baylar lead the great attack on these High-Elves, ancient councilmen who were corrupted by greed and age – which had lead into the affair in the first place. One would think it was the Humans who were so corrupted – as most stories were – but in this case it was the High Elves who were too set in their years to agree with the Humans. Though in the moment of treaty post war – Baylar was murdered in cold blood. Despite the moment – King Rayclair proceeded with the agreement, as the High Elves dodged the sword of claim. It was not a representation of their intentions, but rather a chaotic and random attack. To Rayclair’s dismay – the peace was settled, as both sides of the coin had heavy wounds in need of licking. When the King returned home – the son of the Hand was left. A young boy at the time, who then was taken under the King’s wing in honor of the great sacrifice Baylar made. This boy - Curtis Payton became a man in due time, trained by the greatest of Rangers, and eventually made High-Ranger of the King’s militia. Though, in the darkness of the night – Curtis Payton disappeared from the Castle, leaving the wing of the King, and what little legend remained dissipated in his father’s lost memory… *** Curtis, now grown tall and broad – road atop a chestnut stallion, his only love and joy left in his life. The steed was tall, with a long flowing mane that was kept to every strand. They clop through a small town – hoofbeats upon the cobbled ground as he steadily made his way through. His gloved hand loosely gripped the reigns as he bounced with each step in an idle fashion. In his lips was a thick cigar, hand rolled by a cherry leaf. The scent of it wasn’t brutal or harsh, but rather sweet and tasteful. He took a puff, letting the smoke escape around the cigar. Steady eyes grazed his surroundings as he continued onward. He look rather gruff – in all his gear. A etched leather cap rest on one broad shoulder, and metallic armor sat upon the opposing arm. Otherwise he wore a series of belts over a hard leather vest… he definitely was not one that looked all too friendly. Atop his head sat a brimmed hat, the hair beneath no doubt smashed by his hat, only small flecks of brown hair lingered out the edges. A thick beard lined his jaw and chin, peppered with bits of gray of his subtle aging, though it was kept enough as well. Curtis climbed from his horse as he approached a stable, a boy came from within to greet him. Curtis landed upon the ground – his boots thudding heavily as he did. His hands grasped the sword resting on the saddle of the steed, and then his quiver and bow. As he attached his sword to his belt about his waist – his gaze glanced across the cobbled road. He watched a woman in leathers drop coins in the palms of a young boy. His hands finished about his waist and he gripped the cigar in his mouth, taking a final puff. As he held the smoke and watched the woman usher away – he squeezed the tip of the cigar, snuffing the heat from its end. “Hm…” he hummed and then slipped the cigar away. Soon he parted ways with his steed, leaving her in the hands of the stable-boy, surely not before tipping the son well to take care of her. A good brush, good feed, good rest… she needed it. Meanwhile, he was here for a job. Rounding a few blocks – Curtis approached a rather lavish mansion in the midst of town. He sucked in a breath and went to knock – when the door snapped open. It was clear there was some event in this place – yet his contact told him this is where the communication would occur. Curtis sucked in a breath and stepped inside, past the steward who ushered him in. A few turned their head to him, but most sipped their wine and laughed – music was swelling in the main hall from a group of artists… From his understanding – the party was only just getting started… and his contact would be in later. Of course, he was already drawn in by the ale that he wouldn’t mind lingering for a bit. The booze was ushered around like fresh pitchers of water, and he came back for sip after sip. Despite his nature – after a few drinks – he soon stood in the center of the grand hall, telling stories of his great kills. Laughter and the like filled the room – and the people called for another great tale. He told them as long as his ale was filled, and until finally his purpose came to fruition. Several hours later – a man arrived. An aristocrat by the name of George Mooney… “Curtis Payton, the man of mystery” George stood before him, the man wore a beautiful suit and top hat, his fingers cupping a glass of bourbon in his palm. “I am surprised you came” “Mister Mooney – your name is lined in Gold, why wouldn’t I?” Curtis and the man sat at a table, just on the second story. They could gaze down to the main floor atop the balcony as they sat across from each other. “Exactly…” the man flashed a wicked grin and then pulled a piece of parchment out. “There are a number of men who owe me debts, they can surely not pay” he pushed the paper forward. “As promised, their demise would come..” he let out a chuckle. “You’re just the man to do it” “Hmm…” Curtis read over the names… “I’ll let them know Mooney sends his regards” he folded up the paper and stuck it in an interior pocket of his cape. “I require forward payment” he nodded. “I will give you a stipend for now, but return with their seal, a pendant about their neck – notating their nefarious clan; Graybourne Society” he scoffed “and you will receive your payment of 5,000 gold coins per” he leaned back proudly in that moment. It was a hefty sum, in total it would make him 20,000 gold coins richer. Enough to buy several homes, and several wives if he so pleased it. “Deal” Curtis peered to him, nodding without a second though. Mooney stood then and nodded “Come with me then, I will retrieve your stipend…” he lead Curtis down a set of stairs. They passed by several people until they came upon a hallway… Curtis glanced around and soon they pushed into another set of stairs, though this time down into the basement of sorts. “To the secret vault?” Curtis laughed, but the Aristocrat paid it no mind. They passed a main room of the basement and then to another hallway, that lead into another room, a luxurious sort of office which had a large vault within. The least likely thing he’d expect in the grim basement... Mooney stood before the vault and turned the dials all kinds of ways. As the man worked on opening his full size vault - Curtis glanced behind him. He heard a thud in the room down the hall, and the scuffling of boots. He raised a brow and stood by the doorway, glancing downward. “Something the matter?” Mooney spoke with his eyes on the vault. A final click. “Hmm…no” Curtis spoke and then turned back towards the man. The huge heavy door opened to reveal the insides of what appeared to be quite the large safe. Bricks of gold were stacked, coins and chests inside. Mooney stepped inside, he had to hunch slightly as he entered. His hues turned towards the hallway, where a woman emerged. Curtis did a double take as his eyes played over her – the girl from before? He looked back to Mooney, who turned to exit the vault. Curtis moved to stand infront of the door way, blocking his vision from seeing her. “Pretty wild to see such a vault like this” Curtis chuckled awkwardly. “Oh please, you have been in bigger. Do not play me… the vault of the King is easily six times this size…” the man shut the vault and stepped forward with a sack of gold. “So, you know” Curtis reached forward to the coins. “I do my research…” he chuckled. “I wanted someone who could do the job” he stepped over to the desk and poured a glass of bourbon. “Some one who would know their way around the higher society…” he chuckled. “I see….” Curtis reached for the glass and took a sip. “You better not miss out on the events up stairs…” he chuckled. “Oh, please. That party is all in the name of my daughter… engaged to the Duke of Lannerbane” he chuckled. “Well, I might see myself up – which way again?” he questioned aloud. “Ah… To the right twice, the door with the crystal handle is the stairs up… Go on, I await your delivery….” He sat and sipped his drink… Curtis set the glass back down, only a few sips deep. He nodded his head and stepped towards the hallway. He stopped and glanced around in the room – the girl? He turned the right, and then another right until he peered to the door with the crystal handle. He turned the handle and a set of stairs emerged upward. “Come on… you’ll need cover” he spoke out loud. |
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jan 13, 2023 21:31:38 GMT -5
Arastina moved slowly, she heard subtle clicks. Her brows tugged together. Then the sound of two male voices as she rounded the corner. She froze. She never froze. Her breath caught in her chest as her evergreen hues looked upon the man – his eyes upon her. She stood there a moment – completely exposed, unmoving. As the man turned away and spoke as if nothing happened. As if he hadn’t seen her. She vanished into a mist of black smoke once again, only to reappear at the base of the vent. That was the trouble with her ability. She couldn’t go far. Just far enough to get an advantage.
She shuffled about quickly. Her eyes searched through the shadows for a way out. An escape. Though the walls were formed of stone and concrete. No vents or windows offered a quick escape. She stared up the chute that she’d slid down and cursed to herself. She wouldn’t be able to climb back up that if she tried. It was made of smooth slick metal for laundry to easily slip down. Arastina gazed about the room then – she had to find cover – at least for now.
That vault. It was filled with coins. Gold. Gold that this aristocrat didn’t need. She bit her lip slightly. That was not what she was here for. She had already found the bracelet. She slipped into the shadows of the room, tucked into the corner near the base of the stairs between a bookcase and the wall. She was petite enough to disappear just about anywhere. She watched as the man came from the vault – alone. Her eyes watched him from the cloak of the shadows as he looked around – as if searching. Was he looking for her? She held her breath, her pulse sped within her chest. She bit her lip slightly. She was never this reckless. She’d had years of experience. Years that didn’t show in these moments.
Come on...you’ll need cover.
She stared to the door that he’d opened that led up the stairs to the commotion above. She had to take the chance. If anything she could fight her way out. She stepped forward, her mask still up over her nose. She stared to him in silence for a long moment before she lowered her mask. She’d blend in better this way. Though – her clothing didn’t exactly match that of those at the party. Neither did this man’s clothing.
Without a word she climbed the stairs with him. She followed his lead and did her best to stay within his shadow. “Hey you.” A voice came from behind her. Before she could acknowledge the voice she was grasped by the shoulder and spun around. “You look like the type to steal.” He accused. “Did you take my gift to my betrothed? The bracelet. Where is it?” He growled. Clearly this was the Duke of Lannerbane. He was young and hot headed.
“I….” Arastina swallowed slightly. Her eyes took on a slight glow as she spoke a word in elvish. To Curtis – Arastina disappeared in a black cloudy mist from the room. But to the Duke...she stood before him still frozen.
The Duke growled. “Is that all you have to say for yourself?!” He exclaimed as he swiped forward to grab her wrist. He hand went straight through the illusion that Arastina had created. “Wh..what…?” He furrowed his brows and gazed around. “Where is she?!”
Arastina on the other hand was rushing through the streets of the city. She quickly scaled the side of a home and sprinted over the rooftops. She jumped and rolled in her landing on the next roof and did this with quick succession.
The Duke growled, his eyes fell upon Curtis. “Find her. I’ll pay you 10 thousand to get that bracelet back!” He snapped, his face red from embarrassment.
Meanwhile Arastina slipped through the streets of the lower districts of the city. “Lady Dewhold!” The young boy sprung up and smiled in excitement. He rushed forward to her and wrapped his arms about her waist. “Thank you.” He spoke and then rushed back to his things. He’d bought himself a nice bread and soup for dinner with the coins she’d given him. “I got you this.” He spoke as he broke off a piece of chocolate from a bar.
Arastina chuckled lightly as she looked down to him. “I’m not a Lady.” She knelt before him and took the small piece of chocolate. She placed it into her mouth and hummed in delight. “Is that...is that orange that I taste?” She questioned with curiosity in her eyes.
The young boy, Julian, giggled in delight. “It is! Isn’t it creamy?” He asked. “I had to get something to tell you thank you!” He hugged her then, which nearly knocked Arastina over. “Thank you for everything, Ara.” He spoke into her shoulder.
She had a warm smile upon her lips. This was why she did what she did. “Of course Julian. I’ll always be here to take care of you. It’s more than the city could ever do.” She smiled and pat his cheek as he stepped back. “I’ve an item to turn in.” She winked to him. “We will talk later. Hm?” She spoke as she rose to her feet and stepped away. She made her way to the tavern and stepped to the bar. Her eyes found the barkeep and he walked over to her. She nodded, “So who am I turning this into?” She questioned curiously.
Royce grinned and motioned for her to follow him. He walked her around the bar and through a thick curtain into the back. He then unlocked a door that led into the basement. “Downstairs, turn right. Follow the hallway. Second door on the left.” He spoke and then nodded to her.
Arastina drew in a breath – she’d never been in this basement. Not in all of her years here in the city. She knew the crimes that were committed here. The darkness that swelled from the basement was almost suffocating. It smelled of the metallic stench of blood mixed with sweat and booze. “Course.” She spoke as she stepped down the stairs. The door closed behind her. Each step creaked. She could ear yells of pain. Laughter. Chatter. It was quite the mix.
The young elf followed Royce’s directions. Right at the bottom of the stairs. She passed the first door – someone begged for mercy behind it. The muted thuds of something blunt as it collided with flesh echoed from the room. Her breath trembled. Her jaw clenched. She continued on until she came to the second door. She knocked upon it and took a step back to wait.
The door opened and a beautiful woman stood on the other side, a smile curved up her lips. “Well, well. Your reputation doesn’t disappoint.” The woman spoke. She had bright blue eyes and gorgeous tasseled auburn locks. She wore a black dress that had a blue corset cinched about her waist. “Come on.” She motioned and stepped aside. “I want to see it.” She closed the door behind Arastina and stepped into the room with her. The room was empty aside from a table with a bottle of wine upon it. Unopened. Two glasses. Empty. “Sit, Arastina.” The woman spoke as she moved about and popped the cork from the bottle. She poured the two glasses and pushed one toward the elf. She smiled then. “Let me see the bracelet.”
Arastina carefully pulled the bracelet from her pouch and held it forward. “The Duke won’t be too pleased.” She spoke.
“Well this doesn’t belong to him. Now does it?” The woman questioned with a sly smile. She slipped the bracelet on over her wrist and the intricate lettering glowed white a moment. She closed her eyes and let out a breath as if relieved. “This bracelet belongs to me. To my people. He stole it.” She opened her eyes to reveal a white glow that slowly dissipated. “So did you truly steal it from him?” She smirked as she took a seat and took a long drink from her wine. “Have a drink.”
Arastina looked to the wine and then to the woman. “Hm, I should be getting home.” She moved to stand.
“Not yet.” The woman spoke and then gave a warm smile. “Sit. Enjoy the drink.” She pushed it forward.
Arastina drew in a breath. Something about this made her uncomfortable. Perhaps it was the fact that the Duke saw her face. She knew he’d come after her. She had to leave. She had to lay low for awhile. Luckily this job had promised more than any job she’d done in years. “The payment?” She questioned.
The woman looked to the untouched glass of wine and then to Arastina again, a smirk upon her lips. She sipped her own wine. Arastina sighed softly as she grasped the glass and took a sip from it. The wine was smooth and had a silky texture to it. The flavor rushed over her tongue and a soft sigh came over her lips. “That’s better.” The woman spoke. “I’m not going to hurt you. Don’t worry about the Duke. I’ll deal with him.” She spoke as she turned and grasped a pouch from a bag that sat upon a side table behind her. She set the pouch upon the table in front of Arastina. “Would you be interested in working for me more exclusively? The pay of course would remain just as high.” The woman grinned. “I need someone whom can slip in and out of the nobility’s homes without notice.” She spoke and took another sip from her wine.
Arastina sipped on her own wine as she watched the woman. She checked through the pouch of coins. It was quite a lot...more than she was promised she imagined. “Exclusively? I...really don’t...”
“Before you make a decision. Why don’t you think about it?” The woman smiled. “Listen.” She shifted and the tips of her pointed ears sliced through her hair. “I know about Ipsy. I knew your father.” She spoke and searched the woman’s eyes a moment. “You don’t have to be afraid.” She smirked slightly and poured more wine into Arastina’s glass.
Arastina looked to her glass a long moment and then to the woman. Her lips parted slightly. She knew of Ipsy? She knew her father? How? Who was this woman? She drank the wine and before long her muscles were loose, her lips held a smile. They spoke of everything and nothing at all. Arastina promised to think about the arrangement. She stated she’d give it a few days before she made a final decision. She climbed the stairs of the tavern and walked onto the streets. A sway to her step. She bumped into someone and they clattered to the ground.
“Hey watch where you’re going!” The man snapped at her.
Arastina merely giggled as she lay on the cobblestone street. She watched as the man scoffed and walked away from her – he muttered something about pointy eared demons. She staggered to her feet and walked along until she reached the docks of the city. She sat upon an old wooden dock as the water lapped at the shore. She watched the deckhands of a ship ready it to make way. They worked together like a well oiled machine. A giggle escaped her and she lay back to gaze up at the sky. The moon was full – the stars twinkled in its presence. It was a gorgeous night truth be told.
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Post by Raven on Jan 13, 2023 22:20:17 GMT -5
Curtis looked to the woman as she revealed herself from the shadows, his thick brows pulled together in thought as he stared to her. A rogue of sorts… he had come across many thieves in his time. He didn’t mind the nature of their encounter – he was making a coin, and so was she… He led her up the stairs and opened the door very calmly. Though the state of the mansion was utter chaos. People were shouting – and they were promptly approached by an aristocrat. Though within moments Curtis could tell it was the Duke. Before he could respond – the girl was gone in a puff of smoke.
“Ten thousand gold?” Curtis peered to him with wide eyes. “I’ll find the bracelet” he spoke and stepped past the duke. In was as he stepped out into the moon’s graze that he cursed himself for helping her… a soft part of his rough exterior saw her kind heart, and figured it wouldn’t be harm to let her go… but Ten thousand was far too much to simply let go.
So, he would venture back to when he had seen her last. The familiarity of the young boy and her – told him they knew each other. The homeless son would surely still be around. Curtis lit his cigar and paced the streets, headed back to the stables. He nonchalantly approached his steed, who was standing in a perfectly clean pen. He approached the gate that held her in and she neighed to his presence.
“Hey there Lani” he cooed to her and rubbed a gloved hand over her chocolate snout. “Eating well?” he questioned through a puff of his own smoke. He gave her a gentle pat and then stepped away to glance across the street. He saw the young boy – leaning against a tree and peering off into the distance. A pack sat next to him, and a piece of bread sat above it.
“Hey there son” Curtis’s voice called to him as he approached. He put out his cigar and slipped it away, he slowly moved to sit down next to him. “A nice night out eh?” he glanced to him, crossing a leg under his knee as he relaxed next to the boy.
“I’m Curtis, what’s your name?” he question as he leaned back. He dug through his cape pocket and pulled a flask out. He took a long sip and offered it to him. “When I was your age, I remember sitting on the deck with my dad. He’d slip me a sip before bed – and I’d sleep like an angel. You’re welcome to some” he set the flask down and peered to the moon above.
“You miss out on all those memories out here, alone eh? Got no home?” he questioned to the boy. “Real shame…but, looks like the city takes care of you right? I saw that girl earlier when I dropped Lani off. Gave you a few coins – that was real kind of her” he glanced to the boy and smiled. “Ever think of returning the favor? I feel generous today, we could… buy her an ale, or…” he though for a moment. “Ah, what am I thinking” he laughed and then let out a sigh.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jan 13, 2023 22:48:03 GMT -5
Julian sat with a piece of fresh bread in his hands. He tore off a piece and munched on it. His chestnut hues lifted to the stranger as he approached. He looked to the man curiously, “I don’t...I don’t have any money mister.” He spoke as he quickly grabbed his small pouch of things. The only items he owned. He quickly grabbed the small chocolate bar and shoved it into the bag as Curtis sat next to him. When the man commented on the night Julian looked up to the stars. “It is...not too cold yet. The winter is cold here.” He spoke softly. The previous winter was his first as an orphan – Arastina allowed him to sleep on her couch a few of the nights. She truly took him under her wing. He was welcome to her home anytime he liked.
Julian stared to the man with wide curious eyes. “Julian Blackstone.” He spoke proudly, a smile on his lips. He stared to the flask and took it into his small hands as Curtis spoke his story of his youth. He sniffed it and his nose wrinkled. “You drink this?” He questioned before he sniffed it again. He tried it and coughed slightly before he held it back toward Curtis. It was strong. Much stronger than anything that Julian had ever had.
“No...no home...my pa passed away from a terrible sickness...and my mother died when I was born.” He spoke softly, he tore off another piece of bread and offered it to Curtis with a soft smile. “I just got it at the market.” He spoke softly. When Curtis mentioned Arastina the grin on Julian’s lips widened. “Lady Dewhold.” He spoke, “But don’t call her Lady. She’ll remind you she isn’t a Lady.” He giggled lightly. “She helps us all out. All of us orphans.” He spoke as he looked to Curtis with curious eyes. “Returning the favor?” He asked, a spark lit in the boy’s eyes.
He jumped up with a huge grin. “Oh could we?” He asked. “Please, mister. Ara would love that!” He exclaimed as he grasped Curtis’ hand and tugged him up to his feet. “I know just what she likes to! Well...Royce knows! I know he knows!” He spoke quickly as he ran along down the street in pure excitement. He led Curtis to the tavern and pushed the doors open. It was busy at this hour with drunken patrons all about. He gazed about looking for the familiar face of the rogue elf. But she was no where to be found.
“Julian.” The barkeep greeted him with a chuckle. “What are you doing?” His eyes lifted to look to Curtis a moment. “You have a new friend there?” He asked.
“Royce!” Julian exclaimed in excitement. “Mister Curtis said he would like to buy Ara a drink so I can tell her thank you for everything she does for me. Can I please?”
Royce chuckled lightly and looked to Curtis. “Don’t tell me this orphan boy has you wrapped around his finger.” He poured an ale and slid it across the counter. “I think Ara went home for the night, Julian. Not too long ago.” He smiled. “Two coin.” He spoke and smirked to Curtis. “You got an eye for Arastina?” He questioned as he polished a glass. “Be careful with that one. She doesn’t waste time on that sort of thing.” He chuckled as he walked away.
Julian grinned to Curtis. “Come on!” He called as he rushed from the tavern. He moved through the streets quickly and climbed up the fire escape to the small home of the elf. He knocked on the door a few times. “Arastina?” He called. “It’s me Julian! I have something for you!” He peered through the window and frowned. He then knelt down and tugged at a wooden shingle slightly until a key fell from it. He grasped the key and placed it into the lock. He unlocked it and walked inside. He gazed around and sighed. “She….isn’t here...” He looked to Curtis defeated it seemed.
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Post by Raven on Jan 13, 2023 23:04:03 GMT -5
Curtis gave a hearty chuckle when the boy curled his nose to the bourbon in his flask. “In due time”. He listened to the boy’s words of his mother, and father – though he didn’t share much of a reaction. “I hear you, my ma died when I was born too” he raised the flask and took a sip to the words. “Dewhold huh? Sounds like some kind of legend” he laughed and stood as the energy burst from the young boys soul. He was a good one at heart, he could tell. Curtis quickly grasped the boy’s bag – which he left on the ground and followed behind him. A few strides and he caught up swiftly and they stepped into an older tavern. “Ah, a tavern” he grinned and came to the bar as Julian lead him.
She had been here recently – he noted this in his mind and then grinned. “Not too keen of an eye, Royce” he lifted the mug and down a quarter of it with ease. He slid three gold coins onto the table and peered about. The Tavern itself was typical, but he could smell something different. A kind of waft – a familiar one. He chuckled as he polished his ale off and set the mug down. “I’ll take that to heart – hey, wait up kid” Curtis followed after Julian.
“Well, at least I got an ale down” he laughed as he followed along. Though the entire while he kept his guise – his eyes traced their steps. Noted the streets, watched the people. He peered up the fire escape – a set of stairs and he raised a brow. He climbed the stairs and approached the door as Julian cracked it open. “Oye, should you be bustin in her house like that?” he questioned and crossed his arms as he stepped into the large room.
“Well, if she was at the tavern – then she’s likely enjoying the night.” Surely, she scored a big win. He would had turned it in – and drank himself into oblivion… “Well, we could surprise her here… or is there any other place you can think of?” he questioned with a grin. “Though, I’m not certain she would appreciate you bringing a stranger to her house” he placed a hand on the boys back. “We lock the door and put the key back, hm?” he guided him back outside and watched him lock it back up. “And the key in its spot” he nodded, arms crossed.
“You trust people too easily, son” he lead him down the steps. “Come on, let’s get you a hot chocolate and wait for her” he pointed to a little café down the road.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jan 13, 2023 23:30:58 GMT -5
Julian glanced to Curtis and chuckled, “She said I’m always welcome.” He spoke before he’d pushed the door open. He looked around the empty space with a frown upon his face. He stepped over to her rapier that she had leaned against the wall and touched the handle on it. The metal glinted in the moonlight that filtered into the small home. “Surprise her?” He giggled. “No one can surprise, Ara.” He spoke as he looked to Curtis. He then frowned slightly to the next statement. Perhaps this stranger was right. It wasn’t the best of ideas to bring this man into Arastina’s home. She’d told him time and time again, no strangers. Don’t trust strangers. Don’t tell anyone about her. Or where she lives. But here Juliana was doing exactly that.
“You know Mister...I bet...” He walked outside and locked the door. He carefully placed the key back in its hiding place. “I bet I know where she is.” He spoke as he hopped down the stairs with energy. He giggled at Curtis, “Ara says that too. But I trust her...and she was a stranger once too.” He spoke as he hurried along down the streets of the city. He stopped before a shop, an old bakery. The lights were off. “Oh...it is late isn’t it…?” He questioned with a sigh. “She likes this place a lot.” He grinned as he looked to Curtis.
Footsteps came from the empty cobblestone street. “Hey, hey easy there.” A voice spoke, a young man held up a petite woman. “Come on, almost there.” A giggle was heard from the woman as the man adjusted her to help her walk, he had her arm around his shoulders and he was bent down considerably with his arm about her waist.
“Lady Dewhold!” Julian exclaimed as he rushed off to greet the two. “Percy!” He grinned as he looked to the young man that held nearly all of Arastina’s weight up.
“Julian, hey there buddy.” The young man responded. He had clothes that were old and held stains, but he seemed to keep them up well. His hands were covered in what looked like oil or soot. He brought his eyes to Curtis. “Who’s your friend?” He asked.
Julian grinned as he looked back to Curtis. “Oh this is Mister Curtis. He helped me buy an ale for Ara.” He paused a moment as he looked to her.
Arastina giggled as she looked to Julian. “Oh Julian...you don’t need to buy anything.” She spoke with slurred speech.
“Ah...erm...well...” Percy looked to Curtis. “She’s a bit beyond an ale, sir.” He shifted her weight. “I’m sure she won’t mind if you drink it.” He offered.
“Ohhhh I’m just fine.” Arastina protested. “I was just enjoying the sky.” She held up her hand and motioned it toward the beautiful moon and stars. “Isn’t...it just lovely...” She giggled. “When it is clear like this...it reminds me of home.” She hummed lightly – the tune that her mother once sang.
Percy looked to Arastina with a bit of a disgruntled expression. “Yeah...fine….you’re completely fine...right...” He replied as he adjusted her from her movements. She wobbled and nearly fell. “What the hell did you drink, Ara?” He questioned.
“Drink?” She giggled, “Just a glass of wine.” She leaned against him and placed her hand on his chest. “Honestly the best wine I’ve had...I must ask what it was.” She leaned her head on his shoulder and then her eyes finally fell upon Curtis. “You!” She broke from Percy’s grasp and stepped forward. She grasped Curtis’ shoulders and giggled as she looked up into his eyes. “Thank you for earlier.” She spoke as she looked to him. “I’m not usually...the type to be in trouble like that...” She pat his chest, “But that was some help you gave me. Shame the Duke saw me.” She giggled, her hand still on his shoulder. If he so much as moved she would likely stumble and fall.
Percy crossed his arms over his chest as he looked to Curtis. “Look I need to finish getting the ship loaded up. Looks like you know each other.” He spoke before he turned and walked off.
“Oh Percy...wait...” Arastina turned and staggered slightly. She leaned against the brick of a building. Percy had been trying to impress Arastina for years. So he was quickly jealous with any interactions that she had with anyone else.
Julian grinned as he looked to the elf. “Lady Dewhold….are you drunk?” He asked with a playful grin on his lips. He’d seen her drunk many times, so of course he knew the answer.
Arastina’s evergreen hues snapped to him and she let out a playful giggle. “Me?” She questioned as she moved to him, she wobbled slightly. “Drunk?” She asked. “What sort of role model would I be if I were drunk? Eh?” She looked to Curtis. “I’m not drunk. He’s drunk.” She motioned toward him and giggled as she started to walk down to road.
“Ara!” Julian rushed after her. “Wait up!” He called and then giggled as he walked along her side. “You know you’re walking really slow.”
“So what of it?” Arastina questioned with a smile down to the boy.
“I bet….” He rushed forward and climbed on a stone wall. “I bet you a gold coin you can’t walk on this wall without falling. Because you’re drunk.” He grinned as he balanced himself along the skinny top of the wall and then jumped down. “What do you think Mister Curtis? Think she can do it?”
“Oh...I can do it.” She grinned playfully. Arastina even in her drunken state scaled the short four foot wall and stood. She wobbled for a second and put her arms out to the side. “What sort of rogue would I be if I couldn’t walk a wall?” She questioned with a giggle. She wobbled as she stepped along and she quickened her pace. As she did this she lost her footing and quickly slipped to the side. Arastina let out a yelp as she fell back, she squeezed her eyes shut for the impact.
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Post by Raven on Jan 14, 2023 0:02:05 GMT -5
They turned from the closed bakery to the sound of drunken steps, and a helping hand. The young boy sprang up to greet them. Curtis crossed his arms as he peered to the two – and it was as he expected. She was as drunk as could be. His eyes peered to the man helping Arastina, and then the interaction.
“Aye, I’d say she is beyond an ale…” he lifted a brow and gave a slight chuckle. “Just one glass of wine?” he questioned with a lifted brow. “Must have been that elven stuff” he chuckled and then he staggered slightly to her sudden grasp. His hands fell to her shoulders as well, steadying her as she gripped onto his cloak. “You’re not? Huh” he replied to her comment in a sarcastic manner. “Shame he did…” he pressed his lips into a line.
“Oh, Lady Dewhold, I can hold my liquor.. one glass of wine wouldn’t do me under like that” he smirked and watched her take the challenge. “Can she walk the wall? I don’t know…” he hummed, playing along with the moment. He stepped along and watched her scale the wall and take a few steps.
He watched her closely – and he did exactly what he really didn’t feel like doing. As she slipped – he quickly stepped forward and thrust his arms outward. He was a rather tall man, so catching her before she cracked her spine over the wall was an easy motion. He easily lifted her and gently placed her on the ground. “I’d say she’s drunk, huh Julian?” he laughed. “Come on, let’s get her home” he wrapped an arm around the woman and helped steady her to the stairs.
He watched Julian dig for the key and unlock the door once more. He helped her enter and guided her to the couch. “Quite the night out…” he stepped from the bed as he lowered her down. “Julian – help her take her boots off, huh?” he smirked and then stepped over to the small kitchen. “The best thing to help a drunkard is a good grilled cheese…” he started the stove and pushed the skillet onto the burner.
He dug around and found bread, and thankfully some cheese. “ah, some oil – that’s the trick” he doused the skilled and laid the pieces of bread down on it. He used his knife to shave off layers from the little brick of cheese and lay it ontop of the pieces of bread. Within a few minutes he had two grilled cheese sandwiches made up swiftly.
“Lets see what else she has.. hm?” he dug through her small pantry and found a tin of tea leaves. He put the kettle on and made two mugs of tea as well. “Here we go…” he stepped over with two plates and held one out to Julian, and the other to Arastina…
“Did you make a penny off of that bracelet?” he questioned with a gaze to the rogue. “I hope it was worth it… the Duke put quite the number out for it himself” he gave a sigh. “Could double dip” he raised a brow. “I’d give you a cut…” he leaned back. He figured he’d give it a try, if nothing else.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jan 14, 2023 0:21:56 GMT -5
“Elven stuff….hmmm maybe...” Arastina had hummed and then giggled lightly. She glanced to him with a drunken playful smile. “You can, can you? I’ll hold you to it.” She remarked. “I’ll get you that same wine.” She glanced to Julian as he’d challenged her. “I’m not a lady.” She remarked to Curtis. “Just as much as you are clearly not a lord.” She then giggled as she’d pat his shoulder playfully.
Julian chuckled and looked to Curtis. “She’s going to fall. I know it. You’ll catch her won’t you, mister?” He asked with curious eyes. And indeed Curtis did. Julian laughed, “I told you! You’re drunk, Ara!!” He exclaimed.
Arastina gasped as she landed in the arms of Curtis. She drew in a breath as she was lowered to the ground. “I’m just….uh tired...that’s all...” She argued. “I’m not drunk, really! It was one drink.” She argued. She didn’t argue with Curtis as he wrapped his arm around her, she needed the help truthfully.
“You owe me a coin.” Julian grinned playfully as he rushed along the empty streets.
When they made it to her home she groaned slightly, “What did I tell you, Julian...about strangers…??” She questioned as she was led inside by Curtis. She didn’t bring anyone back to her home. In fact she made it a point to ensure no one knew where she lived. Only a select few knew her home.
“You were a stranger too, Ara.” He spoke as he helped her get her thick leather boots off. She leaned against the back of the couch and gazed up at the spinning ceiling. Julian stepped over by the stove as Curtis cooked the food. He peered to the skilled with a grin on his lips. It smelled delicious. He watched as the man flipped the bread and got it to a nice crusty brown. When the plate was offered to him Julian looked up to Curtis with big eyes. “O-Oh thank you.” He took it and the tea. He quickly rushed over to the small round dining table and sat at the seat before he began to eat happily.
Arastina took the grilled cheese and grinned she took a bite and then looked to Curtis as he spoke of the bracelet. Her brows raised slightly. Her breath caught in her chest. “I don’t have the bracelet.” She replied. Which wasn’t a lie at all. She pressed her lips together. “Besides, it wasn’t his to begin with. I merely returned it to the rightful owner.” She had a hand on her dagger. Even while drunk she recognized the situation that she was in. Would she be able to fend for herself? Absolutely not. But she sure as hell would try. “Julian...” She spoke as she stood and wobbled slightly. Her breathing had quickened.
Julian had finished his sandwich and he stepped over to Arastina. “Yeah?” He asked as he looked up to her. She walked to the kitchen and set the plate and the tea down. She’d only taken a few bites of the sandwich.
“It’s time for you to go now, hm?” She gave a gentle smile to him as she walked him to the door. “Oh...” She reached into her pouch and pulled out several coins. She placed them into his hand. “Spend them wisely. Okay?” She shooed him then before she closed the door and leaned against it. She looked to Curtis and a giggle came over her lips. “So what...you’ve been sent to collect me?” She asked. “Is that it?” She pulled her dagger from her thigh. “I’m not going with you and I’m not going to tell you where the bracelet is. So it seems we have ourselves a little problem...don’t we?” Her eyes glowed slightly as she watched him carefully. She took a step forward with a bit of a stagger.
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Post by Raven on Jan 14, 2023 0:34:40 GMT -5
Curtis grinned as the boy jumped at the warm meal. There was a part of him that enjoyed the moment of offering – but it only reminded him what he lost. He watched the woman eat, but despite her intoxication – she was conscious enough to catch on. The Ranger simply waved good bye to the young man, who was sent on his way. He leaned against the small island in the kitchen area. As she drew her dagger – he did not even move.
“Only a problem if you make it a problem” he sighed softly and peered to her. “Neither of us know the truth of that Bracelet. You turned it in already – I know that. You’re as drunk as any rich rogue ought to be…” he lifted a brow. “But, you owe me. That was a pretty precarious situation you were in. I’m not looking to fight you, it wouldn’t be a fair fight. I may not be noble, but I got some inch of honor left in me…” he sighed and crossed his arms as he peered to her. “Put your damn dagger away. If we were going to tussle, I would have beaten it out of you already…” he shook his head.
“There is a black market under that tavern, I could smell it” he scrunched his nose. “Must have been where you got the gig, it’s a typical place. Some stranger tells you – the bracelet is precious to my people, blah blah. Well, the Duke is shelling out 10,000 gold for the thing to be returned. I’m not here to collect you, or beat it out of you. I already know where to do go…” he raised a brow. “Your little friend sort of painted the perfect path for me… you’re reckless in your kindness” he scoffed slightly.
“I’ll tell you what” he walked forward and placed himself just inches from her dagger. She could stab him in the chest right now if she pleased. “10,000 gold is a lot. I’ll give you 2,000 gold right now if you tell me who you turned it into…” he peered to her. “50/50 if you help me retrieve it… think of all the Julian’s you could feed, hm?” he raised a brow. “If you rather not say… I’ll leave now and just figure it out the old fashioned way… but I’m getting the bracelet back.” He stared to her now with raven sharp eyes, the kind you might expect from a ranger who’s killed a few dozen…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jan 14, 2023 0:49:08 GMT -5
Arastina stood defensively. Her eyes fixed upon the man. She watched as he stood with crossed arms. She didn’t speak as he spoke of how she owed him. He wasn’t wrong. Would it be a fair fight? Not at all. She pressed her lips together as she listened to him. When he mentioned the amount that the Duke was paying for the bracelet to be retrieved her lips parted slightly. “What?” She questioned in shock. She grit her teeth when he spoke of Julian. “Leave him out of this.” She snapped.
She stared up into his dark eyes as he placed himself just inches from her. Slowly she lowered the dagger and shoved it into her sheath on her thigh. She scoffed as she walked around him. “Who’s to tell you he will actually pay you that much?” She questioned as she picked up the grilled cheese and took a bite. She took a sip of her tea. The wine still had a tight grip upon her. Perhaps the woman she’d turned the bracelet into hoped she would die from it. But one never knows these things.
“I don’t know her name.” She spoke after a moment of silence. “I do know that the piece has magic in it, or it reacted to whatever magic she holds.” She eyed him a long moment. She then stepped forward, “I do owe you.” She remarked and then groaned slightly. “I’d rather not owe anyone.” She crossed her arms as she stood before him. “You wouldn’t get one foot into that basement of the tavern alone.” She waved her hand. “Want to go for a drink?” She smirked as she grasped the handle to her door. “I’ll make you a deal.” She watched him. “If that bracelet doesn’t truly belong to this woman...I’ll help you retrieve it, I’ll even help you deliver it to the Duke.” She giggled then. “Just to see the look on his face.”
Arastina pressed her lips together then in thought. “But if it is truly a family heirloom. I’m not helping you. I don’t believe that your kind is respectful enough to my kind to understand what something like that means to us.” She had a spiteful tone. “I’ve seen enough elves killed merely for having pointed ears. That’s all we have to do.” The wine was letting up on its grasp and her demeanor showed this. While she was giggly and silly drunk, she was pointed in her behavior as she sobered. “Do we have a deal?”
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Post by Raven on Jan 14, 2023 1:01:38 GMT -5
The Ranger grinned as she caved, sheathing her blade as she realized this was a negotiation, not a fight. He lifted a brow and then nodded “You’re not wrong, he may refuse the 10,000. However, you and I both saw that vault in the basement. I am in good standings with his soon-to-be father in law. It would be an egregious mistake to lie… there are a lot of things one can do. Once the word has been muttered, I must be honored, for the sake of their reputation…” he chuckled. “Those rich bastards think they have all the power, when in reality – they’re the easiest to bend. Power is in the wielder of the blade.. we both know this” he gave a chuckle.
“You think a shady dealer was truly recovering a family heirloom? The Duke put a price like that because its worth more than just that. Whatever it is – must be either quite rare, or quite powerful. Judging by your comment… I would say – quite powerful. I wouldn’t believe the words of a dealer, pointed ears or not. You know no more than I… and we both like a certain shiny golden round object…” he raised a brow.
“Lets not make this a race fight, I’m beyond just belittling things. But fine, if you want to wrap morality around the subject – let us investigate the truth behind the bracelet and decide if you shall partake…” he gave a chuckle. “When it comes to objects like that… no one thinks of morality… Anyone with the coin to pay you doesn’t care either. You are too admirable, it will get you killed some day” he chuckled.
“Finish your tea and we can grab an ale then… as long as you don’t think whatever wine she poured down your guzzle hasn’t wrecked you already” he gave a chuckle and hummed softly.
“By the way, the first two numbers of that vault were 12, and 5” he chuckled. “That guy… Mooney, what a cocky bastard. He flexed his entire vault just to convince me to commit to his deal as well. How easily I could have killed him then, and stolen the whole lot” he shook his head. “They think they have all this money that they’re invincible… and I nearly did it. Till I saw you, stuck down there. You fell from the laundry shoot?” he gave a deep chuckle then. “Fate has its odd ways…”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jan 14, 2023 1:19:25 GMT -5
“She isn’t a dealer.” The elf replied quickly. “She isn’t the type. I’ve dealt with plenty over the years, nobility and even those of the worst slums around. She doesn’t fit the type. Yet she’d oddly comfortable enough. She knew more about me than I realized anyone would know...I think there is truth behind her words.” She spoke and then drew in a breath. “You’re not wrong, he would be stupid not to pay you. Especially with a vault full of golden bars...” She smirked, “I may have thought about stealing it all myself. I’m certain there has to be a vent into that room….” She pondered a moment. “There is always a way in.” She grinned playfully then.
She scoffed slightly as she watched him, “Have you seen this place?” She questioned. “Be it the lower commons or the noble districts my kind isn’t treated so fairly.” She raised a brow slightly. “So forgive me if I tie that into it. I know there were things taken from my home that the humans wanted...” She shook her head and scoffed slightly. It was all over shiny trinkets and gold. Her entire village was killed for its beautiful pieces of art and jewels….among other things. But she wasn’t here to talk to him about Ipsy. She doubted he even knew of the village anyway...and the massacre that befell it.
She stepped from the door and paced slightly before she moved to take another bite of the sandwich. “Perhaps it will get me killed one day. But if that’s what does me in then so be it.” She spoke defiantly. She then grinned, “Oh I can take an ale or two. Don’t you worry.” She took another bite.
When he mentioned the numbers on the vault she grinned, “Were they now?” She perked up. “Hm, perhaps we will have to get that 10,000 and also empty out that vault.” She pondered. “That surely would line those pockets of yours wouldn’t?” She questioned. Then when he mentioned the laundry chute she chuckled lightly. “Ah yes...well...it was a risky move on my part. I was hoping it led outside and not into an inescapable basement. But alas that is exactly where it led me.” She took the final bite and downed her tea.
“What do I call you. Curtis was it?” She questioned as she walked to the front door. “I imagine Julian told you my name already.” She spoke as she pulled the door closed and then she slid down the railing with ease. She was much more nimble now that she wasn’t a drunken mess. She walked along light as a feather. “This what you do then? Or are you a sell sword?” She smirked to him as they entered the tavern.
Royce saw the two and his brows raised in surprise. He quickly poured two ales. “Arastina good to see you, Curtis.” He grinned, “Surprised.” He spoke a bit softer only for Curtis to hear.
“This way.” Arastina grabbed Curtis’ arm and smiled up to him. A playful act that would fool even those that knew her well. The bartender stood baffled by the elf’s actions. She led him to a back room away from the bustling crowd in the front. “There are two ways to get downstairs.” She spoke as she walked over to a bookcase. She stood before it with a hand on her hip, her eyes looked over the books and a sigh escaped her. She tugged on one. Then another. And another. “The stairs. That’s the obvious choice.” She then tugged on a book and the bookcase clicked. “Or the less obvious.” She grinned to him as a hatch in the floor was revealed. She downed her ale. “Shall we?” She questioned.
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Post by Raven on Jan 14, 2023 1:40:27 GMT -5
Curtis finally gave a defeated sigh “Alright, fair enough. You are elf, hear me roar” he teased and nodded. “I’ll honor your wish, I suppose you are not wrong. I could care less… and that is just very much the human way, isn’t it?” he hummed and listened to her ramble about the vault room.
“You wouldn’t believe what Mooney wants to pay me as well. They’re absolutely loaded, 10,000 is the cream ontop the bucket of milk…” he followed behind her as they made for the door. “Curtis it is… Julian is quite the kid, yes. He did – Arastina” he followed behind her. “I suppose you would call me a sell sword, yes. I do any kind of work that comes my way. Usually a monster hunter, but sometimes its monsters hunting monsters… I could care less. If the rich want to murder the rich, so be it…” he shrugged slightly. “I aint much a thief though… subtle is typically not my way. I certainly can pursued though” he gave a slight chuckle.
As they entered the Tavern – he gave a cheeky grin to Royce, a singular wave with two fingers – as if he scored the goal. “Ayo, Royce” he was then tugged away swiftly by Arastina. Curtis gave a light hearted chuckle, a part of the play. “No need to pull so hard, darling” he sang slightly and they snuck into a back room. They split from each other and Curtis raised a brow “You’re quite the actress” he smirked and then watched as she revealed a hidden room.
“This is increasingly becoming a more interesting Tavern by the minute… so, we have some under ground work. This Elven woman – who doesn’t belong may be down here… how do you intend on determining the truth behind the bracelet? You think she’ll tell you?” he glanced to the revealed hatch. He followed suit and guzzled the entire ale, little droplets clung to his beard that he quickly brushed away. “Alright, after you” he followed down behind her.
As they entered below – that musky waft came over him. That scent of mud and dirt, the smell of a bad deal and even worse gigs. “So, you some kind of robin hood then?” he whispered as they moved together. “Steal from the rich, take care of your homeless? This black market know you well?” he questioned.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jan 14, 2023 13:35:53 GMT -5
Arastina rolled her eyes slightly to Curtis’ comment. “If you had grown up in the fashion I did, you would feel the same.” She commented as she’d nibbled upon her grilled cheese. Her emerald hues looked to him and a grin split her lips as he spoke that the ten thousand was just a taste. “You don’t say?” She questioned curiously. Anything to entice a rogue. The shiny coins were alluring to her. It meant she could help more – do more…
As they walked toward the tavern she glanced over her shoulder as he spoke of what he was normally hired for. “Anyone can be persuaded when enough money is dangled in front of them.” She winked as they entered the tavern. The way that Royce looked at the two in complete disbelief, his jaw was loose. It was priceless. It even had Arastina giggling as they entered the back room. “I’ve had years of practice.” She did a fake curtsey. “When you do what I do, you have to learn to blend into your environment.”
Arastina smirked to him as he asked just how she planned to figure out the truth of the bracelet. “I have my ways.” She shrugged slightly before she climbed down the ladder. She drew in a breath as she heard the familiar sounds of torture. The cries of those that wished to be forgiven. The next question that Curtis asked received a playful smile from the elf. “You could call me that. My name is on the tip of most of the dealer’s tongues. Yes. They ask and I deliver. They give me gold and I distribute that gold to ensure that those that have had hard times fall upon them can make it through...if I was given such grace it could have changed many things for me.” She rounded a corner.
A man had a woman pressed against the wall. Their hands roamed about one another as their lips locked. Arastina slipped around them and continued along. A door opened and a burley man stepped out, his eyes fell upon the elf and a grin split his lips. “Just the rogue I was looking for.” He chuckled as he grabbed a hold of Arastina’s shoulder. His breath smelled of liquor. “I’ve got a pretty penny for you to make girl.” He leaned close. “What do you say?”
Arastina’s nose wrinkled slightly. “I’d say – we can chat about it later.” She shrugged his hand from her shoulder.
“Oh come on, Arastina.” The man groaned before his eyes fell upon Curtis. He smirked slightly. “She leadin’ you around down here?” He questioned with a chuckle. “Best keep close.” He spoke as Arastina had continued down the hall.
She brushed off her shoulder as if that would shoo away the stench of liquor and blood. She paused before a room and listened. She could hear the low murmur of speaking on the other side of the door. She became completely still as she tried to hone in on the words. The door pulled open then and an elven man stood before the rogue. He gripped a hold of the front of her tunic. His eyes fell upon Curtis and he pressed his lips together. “Both of you. Get lost.” He spoke in a gruff manner.
Arastina gripped a hold of his hand and with ease she twisted from his grip and in seconds she had his hand in a quite uncomfortable position. “I’d like to speak to your boss. Her and I have an agreement.” She spoke as the man crumpled to his knees before her.
“Arastina.” The blonde elf spoke from within the room, a tickled smile upon her lips. She looked to the elf that was knelt before the rogue and chuckled lightly. “Seems I need better guards, don’t I?” She questioned as she sipped from her glass of wine. Her eyes fell upon Curtis then and a curious look came about her. “You’ve brought a friend, I see.” She spoke, her voice had a hint of irritation to it.
Arastina nodded as she released her grip on the elven man. She side stepped around him and into the room. “I brought one of my close friends with me.” She smiled. “He’s done quite a few jobs with me. I’d trust him with nearly anything. My life even if I had to.” She smirked as she glanced to Curtis.
The woman eyed him a moment, “I see.” She spoke as she moved to the table and sat down. She gripped her glass of wine, the bracelet glistened in the dim light of the room. “Have you come to a decision?” She questioned.
The elf sat across from the woman and looked about the damp musty room a moment. She looked to the elf whom stood at the now closed door with his arms crossed over his chest. His eyes seemed to bore into her as if he wished to cause her harm. “Not quite.” She replied as her eyes moved back to the woman. As she looked to her then, she saw something. A ripple in the world around the woman. Her brows tugged together slightly. She stood abruptly and reached forward, as her hand entered the space near the elven woman her image rippled to reveal a disfigured woman. Not the beautiful elf at all. Before Arastina could react she felt a sharp pain as she was gripped and pulled forward abruptly.
“You just had to question it. Didn’t you?” The voice was different now. This was a troll of sorts. Roots shot up from the ground and lashed out at the rogue.
Arastina rolled from side to side and scrambled to her feet. She had both of her daggers in her hands and she lunged forward, only to be slammed from the side by the elven man. She groaned as one of her daggers clattered to the ground. Though she held her hand toward it and the blade began to glow a beautiful blue as it lifted into the air and stabbed forward into the back of the elf. She ripped the blade from his back and stepped back a few paces. “I suppose you’re right. My trust will get me killed one day.” She chuckled as she gazed to the troll. She jumped nimbly about as roots sprouted from the floor once again. She kicked off of the wall and slashed toward the troll just as a root wrapped around her mid section. Arastina let out a yelp as it tightened around her body and slithered about her legs like a snake.
The troll turned her attention to Curtis then. “You think that bringing a human along with you will keep you safe?” She questioned with a cackle. “You’ve given me great power, little elf.” She lifted her hand as her eyes glowed a bright white. The bracelet upon her wrist pulsated as well. “I’ll kill you both.” She spoke as she lunged forward toward Curtis.
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