Difference between revisions of "Technologists Continue their Research - RPLOG"
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=Participants= | =Participants= | ||
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* [[Angus]] | * [[Angus]] | ||
* [[Dio]] | * [[Dio]] | ||
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* [[Sveta]] | * [[Sveta]] | ||
* [[Sylera]] | * [[Sylera]] | ||
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=Date= | =Date= | ||
9/11/476 | 9/11/476 | ||
=Log= | =Log= | ||
| − | <div></div><br> <br>Standing at the market squire is Amy, a | + | <div></div><br> <br>Standing at the market squire is Amy, a lioness in guard's uniform, waiting for those to answer the call to help with the investigaton. With her caption offially on matunity leave, she was put 'on call' which is a nice way to say 'the worst jobs at the worst times.' Still, she was a bit optomistic about this one. The scattered clouds above gave some reprieve from the sun, while it was still a bit on the warm side.<br> <br>Angus walks towards the meeting place, a little on edge as this mission seems rather serious. "Amy." He greets his Sisters subordinate, tipping his hat as he comes to a stop and looks her over. "Will you be joining us?" The fox asks, fixing the clasp of his cloak as he looks her over. He was a little nervous, fully armed for any situtation after hearing the tails of beings breaking down and getting violent....<br> <br>Stepping into the market square Sylera glances about, eyes roving until they set upon the lioness in uniform. Nodding she continues onward towards her and the male that had just arrived and stops a few feet away. "Greetings... I take it this is the meeting place for the call?" The betta's tail fin swishes slowly behind her.<br> <br>Injuries be damned! Even if they try to damn himself! Hearing the call for assistance, Dio walks his way towards the market with a slight limp on his left side, but each day brings a healthier and healthier lion. With a bullet hole lodged directly in his highly regarded coat, along with a dagger cut upon the shoulder, a trip to the tailor is probably needed in the near future. But there are more important things to be done! "Ooh," Dio says, making his way towards the group. "It's the liony lass! Been a bit o' time 'asn't it?" Giving Angus a small wave, he looks towards the fishy fellow and smiles. "An' 'ello to you too, lass. Never seen ya 'roun' 'ere before."<br> <br>Amy looks over to Angus first, giving a curtsey, "My Lord, thank you for showing up to help, and how goes My Lady Mirana's ... stay in the church?" she asks, next a creature she rarely sees, a Betta, but a nod to her as well, "Thank you as well," then... oh creators no.. not that lion... "Dio..." she says. She looks around to those assembled, "So, here is what we have so far, beings making their way home for the night, just disapper. They usually return a few days later with very unusual behaviors. The General in charge of Sweetwater National Security has issued a statement to begin a detailed investigation starting with us, so, anyone have any ideas where we should start? I was thinking the Mange Square." She says, tail flicking about as she looks to Dio.<br> <br>Angus turns, eyeing the Betta a little before he gives a nod of greeting. "Hello there, and hello to you to Dio." He frowns when he notices Dio's limp, now worried about the lion as he ponder Amy's words. "Is Mange square where these beings are disappearing, or is that were they are reappearing?" He asks as he hooks a thumb in his belt.<br> <br>Sylera gives a polite nod to those here. "Good afternoon." She says looking over the new arrival before turning back with interest as the lioness begins her explanation. "Unfortunately I know not the area as well as the rest of you might..." She shrugs, disturbing the bottle at her hip which sloshes.<br> <br>A small grin grows over Dio's short muzzle. A sort of goofy grin that only a true lovable oaf like he could provide. The lion scoots over towards Amy and gives her a few pats upon the back. "Ya look so 'appy to see me, lass!" He laughs, and then suddenly goes into serious business mode. "But anyways, that's somethin'. 'ave ya ever gotten to interview the poor lads and lasses that got taken away? Perhaps there's a pattern there to be seen: Species, affiliation, clan, house, trade, etc." Giving the lioness some room, he backs off a bit before continuing. "When did this whole problem start anyways?"<br> <br>Amy shakes her head to Angus, "No, they reappear outside of the city gates, and have been disappearing from all over the city, Mange Square, Market Square, Saints Square, even the Noble Housing." She responds before looking Dio, "We have talked to them, and there seems to be nothing consistant except for time of day, it is almost always late evening, early night when they are taken, and almost always very early morning when they return. Species, clan, soul gifed, even nation of origin seem to make no differance." she says, waiting for other good ideas.<br> <br>Angus blinks. "So, no profiling at all? Intresting." This was starting to get curious, the fox rather intrested as he gives Dio a smile. "Dio, you know your still wounded..." He didn't really want the lion coming along, but more eyes on the situation would definitly help. So he unholsters his pistol, switches his grip around and offers it to the Lion by the handle. "Mind using this instead of your blades? Would feel more comfortable if you did."<br> <br>Sylera considers for a few moments. "The abductions sound very carefully thought out given the lack of pattern... Or they've gotten extremely lucky." Curiously the betta only seems to have a dagger at her belt but carries herself confidently despite the seeming lack of armament. At the comment about wounds she runs her gaze over Dio once more, pausing at each hole or slash in his garments. "Are you... Certain that you're up to this?"<br> <br>"Jus' targetin' poor beings at random is it?" Dio brings a hand to his fuzzy chin chin and rubs it in a classic representation of thought. "I suppose before we 'ead on out to investigate the field, did the victims manage to see anythin' before bein' swooped up by whatever we're after?" Noicing a gun handle being pointed in his direction, the lion considers it for a few moments and eventually shakes a hand along with his mane filled head. "I'll be fine, lads 'n' lasses. Jus' a little limp 'ere an' there. Ain't too big a deal, ya know? When the adrenaline kicks in, nobody's gonna know the difference."<br> <br>Mirana looks around once more, "Well, I hate going in blind as much as the next being, but we don't have much to go on." she says. Dio's question makes her think a moment though, "Smoke, they said they saw smoke before being taken, and that they were drugged." she says, tapping her boots together a moment. The lioness isn't the picture of beauty, having been in a few fights before, and having a mostly athletic figure. "Well, I can tell you the last place someone was taking from, that we know of, was from Market Square."<br> <br>Angus nods to Dio, reholstering the pistol. "Well, still...Wait, what?" His ears perk up as he turns to Amy, staring a little bit. "They saw smoke before being taken, and they were drugged? .....For the love of the Creators, I think I know who is doing this." He pinches the bridge of his nose, praying to the creators that he was wrong about this.....<br> <br>Sylera shrugs as Dio brushes off the concern directed at him before turning back to the group at large or perhaps Angus. "You do?" She arches an eyebrow. "That was relatively quick. I suppose you'll be sharing then?"<br> <br>"I think I remember hearin' somethin' 'bout this," Dio replies. "There was a snake lass, maybe some darts, I'm not sure. I mighta been a bit drunk at the time ya see." The lion rubs at his head and through his dense mane, using his other to wave at the new arrival. "If they're poisionin' people o' somethin', maybe I can help reduce the effects. At least a little..." Reaching into his pocket, he switches out his souls for something more water magic friendly, taking a minute to bless the group around him with a wonderful and refreshing blessing of water!<br> <br>Angus rests his hand on the grip of his Rapier, squeezing the weathered leather. "The Technologists. A group that believes that we shouldn't be worshiping the creators. Last time I ran into them they were using torture to experiment on beings that displayed aspect of a Sacred family...And they are rather ruthless. Do not get captured." He comments bluntly, anger starting to rise as he remembers what they did to his sister. "Greeting Alanis, you're just in time to join us in a hunt."<br> <br>Amy listens to Angus' words most and then to Dio, "Well, if you two have had some dealings or stories with them before, maybe you should lead us, do you think we should check out the 'secert' thieve's guild, the location of the last abduction, or do you have some other idea?" she asks, looking to Alanis as she joins them, "Lady Solacious." she says giving a curtsey, then blinks at Angus' explination, "Then... caution should be exercised." she says, a hand on one of her twin blades.<br> <br>Sylera winces at the description of what the group might, and is, capable of. "Indeed caution seems to be warranted... The last abduction site might yeild clues..." Still the betta is a tad surprised that evidently people of some renown appear to have answered the call going by the guards reaction.<br> <br>Running a few calculations within his head, Dio calls upon the wonderful powers of water magic to dwell up a splash of water upon the group around him. Rather than being an annoying soakage of aquatic measures, this water feels strangely refreshing, helping to ward off what may ail them in the future. "Technologist ya say? I ain't dedicated to one o' those sacred families 'r whatever, but we can't let that go aroun'..." The lion looks around for a few moments and then sets sights upon Angus. "Maybe we could set up a trap o' sorts? Ya got somethin' goin' on with yer tail, fox-kit."<br> <br>Amy gives a slight growl to no one in particular, "Ok, if no one has any other ideas, lets be off to the last site of an abduction." She says, leading the way toward the Market Square. Once there, she takes a moment to point out the location, just infront of a jewlery shop, "The last abductie to be noticed missing was an apprentace from that shop. After leaving for the night two nights ago, he never returned for his next leasons. Wyld Garnarth, Lepord of the Adaptable Clan." She says, "It is suspected the he was taken there," She says pointing at the street corner between a pair of shops and leading into an alley way."<br> <br>Angus turn, giving Dio a slight smirk. "Nah, my tail is supposed to be this way. Kitsune isn't my only sacred family Dio." He states, before following after Amy. When they get to the location he eyes the jewelry shop then the alleyway. "Last time I encountered these guys they were working out of the cellar of an abandoned house. So I believe Dio's idea of using me as bait might be a sound one. As they already know I'm of a sacred family." He taps the handle of his Rapier, waiting patiently for when he can tear the throats out of these beings, and their dispicible group....<br> <br>As Dio works his magic Sylera accepts the blessing with a smile, looking at the lion with new respect. When they arrive the betta peers around the area listening to the others. At Angus's statement however she also looks at him with new respect. Seemed she was amongst very important people indeed. "I'd hate the thought of using someone as bait... But then it sounds as if you're known to them which could work for and against us..."<br> <br>With his protective measures set upon the group, Dio switches his soul gems once more, replacing them with the ones he was wearing before. "Kitsune ya call it? How interestin'. I suppose it could work if we can hide good enough," he comments, following along with Amy and the rest of the group. "If we can't stop 'em in the act, findin' where they're takin' people will allow us to bust 'em like that drug den awhile back." Dio looks down at his own weapon and taps the heavy shield upon his back before looking at the rest of the group. "It'll be dangerous, but so are a lot o' things."<br> <br>A brief flurry of activity, and then Sveta arrives on the scene just in time to join in on the action, quickly looking over the situation. Amy and Angus are given a terse nod each, the latter moreso than the former, Dio a roll of the eyes, and the new face...well, her usual calm demeanour. Saying nothing, the goshawk quickly takes stock of the situation, then prepares to ready her shield if need be.<br> <br>Amy nods a bit, "Well, using someone as bait might not be a bad idea, and who better to use then Lord Solacious! I hear he gets into quite a few troubles, yes My Lord?" she asks with a bit of marriment. A smile to Sylera, "Just stay on your toes and keep a look out." she says. Dio, another nod, and a greeting to Sveta, "Good evening, glad you could join us, I take it you have heard the news?"<br> <br>Angus gives Sveta a nod. "So, we are all in agreement then. I'll be bait?" He asks, ears flicking as he looks around. Wait, what was that? movement barely catches his eye, was that a small ball in the darkness? "Might not need the bait...." He comments just loud enough for the group to hear as his left had wraps around the grip of his rapier, ready to draw if it's what he thinks it is...<br> <br>Sylera gives a nod to the new arrival then sighs. "Yes if bait is needed..." She cocks her head and looks at Angus curiously, a hand poised as if she had been about to reach into a pocket. "What do you mean?"<br> <br>"Good to see ya lass," Dio waves as Sveta approaches the group. However, such greetings and pleasnetries are cut short as Angus announces a mysterious presence among them. The lion reaches to his back and pulls out his trusty iron buckler to defend himself from whatever enemy that may go against them.<br> <br>"I did hear the news. That's why I'm here," Sveta replies. "And I was about to say - what, Angus?"<br> <br>The small sphere that Angus noticed bursts into a thick black smoke, coating over everything near. It is pitch black and smells worse then Dio before his bath, searing the eyes and chocking anyone who tries to breath it in. With almost clockwork percecion, poisonous darts fly in from just about every angle. Sylera is hit, but is able to shake off the poisons effects, still in a cloud of black however. Amy and Sveta are hit squarely, both passing out from the effects. Angus and Dio's quick thinking and foot work ensures they are clear of where they were a moment ago, darts intended for them striking nothing but air and pavement. For those still awake, the sound of footfalls can be heard swiftly being made in the nearly impossible to see through smoke.<br> <br>Angus was anticipating an attack, dropping to the cobblestone as the smoke bomb goes off to avoid the darts. He heard the thing whistling by, the sound of footsteps confirming that the darts were no longer flying. The fox hops back up, drawing his Rapier and activating the runes upon the blade to have it burst into pure white flames as he readies to deflect a blade or dart.<br> <br>Sylera coughs as the cloud comes up right around her, the discomfort not disguising the impact of the dart. Thankfully it had merely hit a fin so whatever was on it was easily resisted along with the magic that the lion had blessed her with. She tries to backpedal out of the cloud while drawing her dagger.<br> <br>"Gah!" Dio dives to the ground and covers his fuzzy head and leonine ears in an attempt to dodge out of the way of whatever projectile was about to his his body. Luckily, he managed to get by with but a minor scrape upon his elbow. The lion looks around and spots a bellowing of smoke and runs some more calculations in his head, unleashing a large gust to fan it away from the group using some air magic.<br> <br>Darts and smoke out of nowhere! Unfortunately, Sveta is a little preoccupied with making social niceities, and doesn't realise the incoming missiles until it's too late. Hit squarely by one of them, she passes out and crumples to the cobblestone in quite the unceremonious fashion.<br> <br>Air clearing, sight returning to those still awake, foot falls quickly beating away... but the party is down one Lioness! The night continues to darken, near perfect and exact timing as well, whomever these are they were heavily trained in the arts of their trade.<br> <br>Angus growls, looking around rather quickly with his blade in hand. "Damn cowards!" He shouts, ears perking up as he looks north and takes off. "Dio help Sveta, they got Amy!" No way he was going to have Mira complain that he lost her subordinate!<br> <br>Sylera blinks in surprise as not only the gust of wind blasts past her, fluttering her loose fins, as indeed what Angus says is true. "Comeon then!" She shouts back at Angus, rushing towards the north.<br> <br>"They got the lioness lass?" Dio springs to his feet and brushes off his coat, looking around for the downed Sveta and immediately heading over for her for her position. The lion crouches down upon one knee and gently pats the goshawk's cheek with the back of his hand. "Ya gotta wake up, lass!" He says, looking around and then directing his gaze back at her. Time was of the essence here! Dio breathes in for a gigantic breath, filling his broad chest, and lets it all loose directly into Sveta's face via a powerful lion ROAR.<br> <br>Sveta twitches from the full force of Dio's impressive leonine roar, coming to in a few moments. "What? Where? No, the laundry's been hung out to dry already...I...ugh, it smells!" Her eyes snap open even as her mind connects the dots and she reaches for the proverbial thorn in her neck, pulling it out with a grimace, considering flinging it away and eventually deciding to pocket the dart. "That...was uncalled for," she says, although it's not exactly clear whether she's referring to Dio or the dart.<br> <br>Whomever they are, they are fast! Darting through the streets, knocking over rubish cans, pulling down hanging laundry as they go, there are five by count.. no.. six.. four? It is hard to count them in the dark, they are wairing full black jumpsuits. Angus gets tripped up by a few of the obsticles, starting to fall behind, however, Sylera is able to keep up despite clothes coming toward her face and lots of trash on the ground. |
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| + | Awake and alart again, Dio and Sveta are still back at the site of the assult.<br> <br>One would think all those lengthy fins on Sylera would slow the betta fish down but she manages to stay doggedly on the assailant's tail. A dancer's grace helping to avoid the worse of the obstacles. "Should have switched sooner..." She mutters, regretting her choice of 'armaments' but continues on regardless hoping to get close enough to put that dagger to use.<br> <br>"Dammit!" Angus just couldn't keep up, stumbling over a box as he trys to follow. "Keep on their tail!" He shouts to Sylera, growing as he slices a shirt that was thrown his way....<br> <br>Dio chuckles while watching Sveta regain consciousness, soon getting off his knee and brushing off his pants. "Welcome back, lass! Sorry to make ya get movin' after a fine nap, but they took our little lioness friend!" He begins to jog in place in a rather comedic fashion and looks towards the direction Angus and what's her name fish took off towards. "This way, lass! This way! I wonder if we can fin' a few shortcuts through the city..." Vroom! Using those strong lion legs, he's off!<br> <br>Still a little woozy from just coming to, Sveta takes off after Dio, doing her best to keep up. It's a bit of a struggle, but she manages to do so - or at least, keep pace with Dio, if not Angus and Sylera.<br> <br>As they are completely caught up to, two of the abductors turn in the small alley, blocking the way forward while.... three, maybe, more continue running along, carrying Amy along with them. One takes out a dagger and swapes at Sylera, missing her as she avoids it, and is rewarded by a ball shot to the shoulder for his? actions. Angus' isn't far away at this point, and Sveta and Dio can see Angus' shot.<br> <br>Finally, success! Though said success forces the betta to spin neatly to avoid that dagger stroke, which makes her even angrier at not having properly set herself before this whole business began. That spin however probably had distracted the figure from noticing Angus's pistol however. "Nice shot!" She shouts, lunging forward at the hit figure trying to take advantage of that wound.<br> <br>Angus started to catch up, sheathing his rapier to instead draw the pistol that he had offered Dio as he notices two of the abductors turn to by their friends sometime. "Out of our way!" He shouts, taking aim as he charges forward and squeezing the trigger on one of the barrels. Success, he hit his target. But he doesn't stop, surging forwad and bring his shoulder low as he charges the uninjured abductor!<br> <br>Dio makes a small jump after getting a bit surprised from hearing a gunshot, his eyes focusing upon the gunman in question and sprinting towards them. "Good job lad," he shouts, running some calulcations in his head. "I'm gonna go on ahead an' see if I can keep up!" With the power of air magic, the lion flies over the barracade of beings and takes off for the runners once more!<br> <br>Unlike Dio, Sveta isn't one to waste all that wonderful momentum - besides, she isn't about to turn her back on a potential threat without dealing with them first. Pulling out her huge tower shield, she goshawk soundly charges the barricade of beings, pushing through and scattering them with ease and leaving the lot of them dazed as she does her best to keep up with Dio. At least now that lot aren't going to be firing anything after them while they give chase.<br> <br>A shoulder check, a quick lunge, flying over, or knocking them away with a shield, mostly ignored, the two did manage their job, by the time everyone is through the others are completely out of sight. Knocked around the remaining to get up once more, and toss down another smoke bomb! The alley fills with the thick, disgueting stuff, making the already dark alley nearly impossible to see into, catching Angus and Sylera inside it.<br> <br>Sylera coughs getting shakily to her feet and attempting to stagger in the direction she thinks they had been heading in before, trying to get out of the cloud. Where grace could keep from being hit from in front it did not grant such from being taken from behind... "Where'd they go?"<br> <br>Angus growls as he hits his target, grabbing at them as Sveta charges through and staggers them all. He keeps hold of his target, trying to keep them from fleeing as the smoke bombs goes off and he starts coughing. Bringing his pistol up to use as a buldgeon if the abductor trys to escape.<br> <br>Dio puts a hand to his golden forehead and begins searching around the area for any clues. Any at all! He look desperetly for any sort of answer until his leonine eyes spot something amiss amongst a nearby building. "Over there," he points, finger directed upon the third building on his left. "Some paw prints on that door, lads. We could probably call some guards 'n' bust it real good."<br> <br>"Probably, yes," Sveta says, moving in closer to examine the prints. "Probably get this place surrounded, at least. Might not be foolproof, but at least it'll make it harder for them to slip away. I'm sure Angus has a bit of clout where these things are concerned, doesn't he?"<br> <br>The ninjas work over Angus quickly, getting the one under free, and slipping away, his hold barely not enough to keep him there, definately a him though. Meanwhile the smoke continues to hold in the alley way.<br> <br>Sylera stumbles out of the cloud, looking around briefly, before trotting over to Dio and Sveta. Eyeing the Goshawk with her shield a bit warily. "Calling more guards would be a good idea but I'm worried that they might slip away despite seeming to be trapped." The betta says giving the door a frown.<br> <br>Angus loses his grip, cursing himself as the ninja manages to get away. "Dammit!" Standing up he waves his arms, trying to get the smoke clear as he walks out of the smoke and walks to the others. "Find anything?" He asks, cocking back the hammer on the second barrel of his pistol as he gets ready to put a round an anyone that gets in their way...<br> <br>"Regardless," Dio responds. "We need some guards fer the two ya got back there. 're ya sure the Fox-kit is okay? They'll be good fer an interrogation late- Ah!" The lion looks as Angus pushes his way out of the smoke, and then back at the door. "Not gonna waste anymore time. I'm goin' in. I think they went in 'ere..." Buckler held out in front of him, Dio slowly opens the paw-print smudged door and looks around.<br> <br>"Oh, we wouldn't all be leaving at once. It would've been just Angus. But if you don't want to take the risk, that's fine by me. Angus, do whatever you like." Giving everyone a nod, Sveta takes up position just a little behind Dio as he opens the door, ready to step forward if need be.<br> <br>Sylera shrugs, those fins flowing with the motion. "One would hope they don't have to large of an operation in one place... Would be harder to hide." Regardless she takes up position to follow the others in, and keep watch over their backs.<br> <br>So far, so good. Dio looks back at the people falling behind him and continues raising his shield for any future attacks upon his friends or himself, eyes flickering and gazing around the mysterious building to evaluate and perhaps discern where exactly they are, and where the culprits could've gone.<br> <br>So far, so good. Dio looks back at the people falling behind him and continues raising his shield for any future attacks upon his friends or himself, eyes flickering and gazing around the mysterious building to evaluate and perhaps discern where exactly they are, and where the culprits could've gone. It was quite dark in the room, making this process rather difficult. With a bit of fire magic, he creates a small orb of light to illuminate the area within. Perhaps it may get them detected, but clues were needed!<br> <br>Angus steps up behind Dio, nodding as he brings his gun up. "Alright, lets go." He comments, moving in after Dio with his gun held hig, ready to fire upon any advancing opponents.<br> <br>As the room is lit up, there is no one inside!! The doorways are clear, curretens that would permit privacy here and there, but all are open. A table, a rug, the front door, just three rooms. A range for cooking, and a bed room, with no interior doors. It is easy to see, the rug wasn't put all the way back proper, underground!<br> <br>Angus frowns as it's empty, looking over the room before his eyes alighted on the rug. "Think they went underground?" He asks Dio as he walks over and kicks the rug, holstering his pistol as he grabs for the ring on the trap door if there is one.<br> <br>"It should be more difficult for them to move under there carrying someone no?" Sylera asks, sweeping into the room behind the others. Still opportunity was opportunity and the betta adjusts something with her clothing. "We might beable to catch up."<br> <br>With the initial adrenaline rush of being attacked and triggering that instinctual flight or flight response finally over, the pain from his recovering injuries finally catches up to him in one giant mass of ouch. With a grunt of pain, the lion drops to one knee and grips at his stomach. "Damn," he mumbles under his breath. "Fox-kit, why don't ya try sneakin' down there? If they don't 'ave any light, I'll follow up behind ya in no time at all."<br> <br>Sveta nods. "I expected as much. This place might be useful when it comes to providing clues as to who these folk were, but we should give chase for the moment. Wonder just how narrow it gets, though? With all the tunnels under Firmament proper, it's a wonder the whole city hasn't collapsed under its weight already."<br> <br>With the hatch open, a stench is easily smelled, it leads into the waste pipes!! However, no light and no sounds to be heard....<br> <br>Angus looks to Dio and nods. "I'll take a look." He nearly gags at the stench, wondering why beings like this always seem to head to the Sewers before he drops down into the Hatch and looks around, wondering if he can pick up the trail.<br> <br>Even from her position behind the others the betta wrinkles her nose against that smell. "They must have a hideout in... There. I can't imagine they go back out into the city proper after moving through that." Still Sylera couldn't help but take another look around the rooms while Angus looked below.<br> <br>Just a little further! Dio gives his face a good hard punch to beat the pain and rises to his feet once more with another loud grunt. The blast of stench his his sensitive nose, causing the poor lion to pinch upon the bridge of his nose with little effect. "Hoo wee," Dio exasperates. "Well, at least we know 'ow they're gettin' 'round the city."<br> <br>Sveta winces at the smell, but nods. "I'll stay here with...um...I didn't quite get your name," she says to Sylera, then turns back to Dio. "Best to stick in pairs, at the very least. No knowing if more of them might return while the both of you are down there - don't want anyone else taken."<br> <br>Unfortunately any trail that might have been made would have washed away long ago, and with no sounds or lights to follow, there is nearly no way to know which of the three ways they could have gone, nor which branch they might have taken from there. Amy is gone.<br> <br>Sylera blinks in surprise. "Oh... All this and I never introduced myself to anyone." She curtsies, her long and colored fins adding an interesting flair to the gesture. "I am Sylera of the Water Folk. Relatively recent arrival to Firmament."<br> <br>Angus looks down the three existing pathes, scowling as the trail turns cold. "...Lets head back up." He comments to Dio, turning slowly back to the hatch as his hands clench into fists. He would never hear the end of this from Mira, just another being lost while under his watch.....<br> <br>Dio looks at his buckler and suddenly bangs the piece of metal against the walls for a satisfying and echoing noise. "Yeah, yeah..." he mumbles under his breath in defeat as he makes his way back to the surface. "Maybe we can set up an ambush ' somethin' in this 'ere 'ouse the next night." With a nod to Sylera, he doesn't say much more, which is a bit of a change for the normally talkative lion. Perhaps a beer might be in order, damn his health.<br> <br>"Well met, Sylera. I'm Sveta. An odd time for introductions, but..." she glances at Angus and Dio as they emerge from the hatch, then scowls. "Well, seems like this turned up empty. And for all that effort too...I can only guess that this isn't over, though. Still, this place should be scoured a little more thoroughly, even if a stakeout is unlikely to bear any fruit since they know we're know of this place."<br> <br>"Indeed..." A sorrowful look passes over the betta's face as the two males come back empty handed. "Granted I hardly know anyone in this fair city but it still pains my heart to see something like this happen. Perhaps in the future now that we know their trick it can be stopped however."[[Category:RPLogs]] | ||
Latest revision as of 06:34, 9 November 2013
Participants
Date
9/11/476
Log
Standing at the market squire is Amy, a lioness in guard's uniform, waiting for those to answer the call to help with the investigaton. With her caption offially on matunity leave, she was put 'on call' which is a nice way to say 'the worst jobs at the worst times.' Still, she was a bit optomistic about this one. The scattered clouds above gave some reprieve from the sun, while it was still a bit on the warm side.
Angus walks towards the meeting place, a little on edge as this mission seems rather serious. "Amy." He greets his Sisters subordinate, tipping his hat as he comes to a stop and looks her over. "Will you be joining us?" The fox asks, fixing the clasp of his cloak as he looks her over. He was a little nervous, fully armed for any situtation after hearing the tails of beings breaking down and getting violent....
Stepping into the market square Sylera glances about, eyes roving until they set upon the lioness in uniform. Nodding she continues onward towards her and the male that had just arrived and stops a few feet away. "Greetings... I take it this is the meeting place for the call?" The betta's tail fin swishes slowly behind her.
Injuries be damned! Even if they try to damn himself! Hearing the call for assistance, Dio walks his way towards the market with a slight limp on his left side, but each day brings a healthier and healthier lion. With a bullet hole lodged directly in his highly regarded coat, along with a dagger cut upon the shoulder, a trip to the tailor is probably needed in the near future. But there are more important things to be done! "Ooh," Dio says, making his way towards the group. "It's the liony lass! Been a bit o' time 'asn't it?" Giving Angus a small wave, he looks towards the fishy fellow and smiles. "An' 'ello to you too, lass. Never seen ya 'roun' 'ere before."
Amy looks over to Angus first, giving a curtsey, "My Lord, thank you for showing up to help, and how goes My Lady Mirana's ... stay in the church?" she asks, next a creature she rarely sees, a Betta, but a nod to her as well, "Thank you as well," then... oh creators no.. not that lion... "Dio..." she says. She looks around to those assembled, "So, here is what we have so far, beings making their way home for the night, just disapper. They usually return a few days later with very unusual behaviors. The General in charge of Sweetwater National Security has issued a statement to begin a detailed investigation starting with us, so, anyone have any ideas where we should start? I was thinking the Mange Square." She says, tail flicking about as she looks to Dio.
Angus turns, eyeing the Betta a little before he gives a nod of greeting. "Hello there, and hello to you to Dio." He frowns when he notices Dio's limp, now worried about the lion as he ponder Amy's words. "Is Mange square where these beings are disappearing, or is that were they are reappearing?" He asks as he hooks a thumb in his belt.
Sylera gives a polite nod to those here. "Good afternoon." She says looking over the new arrival before turning back with interest as the lioness begins her explanation. "Unfortunately I know not the area as well as the rest of you might..." She shrugs, disturbing the bottle at her hip which sloshes.
A small grin grows over Dio's short muzzle. A sort of goofy grin that only a true lovable oaf like he could provide. The lion scoots over towards Amy and gives her a few pats upon the back. "Ya look so 'appy to see me, lass!" He laughs, and then suddenly goes into serious business mode. "But anyways, that's somethin'. 'ave ya ever gotten to interview the poor lads and lasses that got taken away? Perhaps there's a pattern there to be seen: Species, affiliation, clan, house, trade, etc." Giving the lioness some room, he backs off a bit before continuing. "When did this whole problem start anyways?"
Amy shakes her head to Angus, "No, they reappear outside of the city gates, and have been disappearing from all over the city, Mange Square, Market Square, Saints Square, even the Noble Housing." She responds before looking Dio, "We have talked to them, and there seems to be nothing consistant except for time of day, it is almost always late evening, early night when they are taken, and almost always very early morning when they return. Species, clan, soul gifed, even nation of origin seem to make no differance." she says, waiting for other good ideas.
Angus blinks. "So, no profiling at all? Intresting." This was starting to get curious, the fox rather intrested as he gives Dio a smile. "Dio, you know your still wounded..." He didn't really want the lion coming along, but more eyes on the situation would definitly help. So he unholsters his pistol, switches his grip around and offers it to the Lion by the handle. "Mind using this instead of your blades? Would feel more comfortable if you did."
Sylera considers for a few moments. "The abductions sound very carefully thought out given the lack of pattern... Or they've gotten extremely lucky." Curiously the betta only seems to have a dagger at her belt but carries herself confidently despite the seeming lack of armament. At the comment about wounds she runs her gaze over Dio once more, pausing at each hole or slash in his garments. "Are you... Certain that you're up to this?"
"Jus' targetin' poor beings at random is it?" Dio brings a hand to his fuzzy chin chin and rubs it in a classic representation of thought. "I suppose before we 'ead on out to investigate the field, did the victims manage to see anythin' before bein' swooped up by whatever we're after?" Noicing a gun handle being pointed in his direction, the lion considers it for a few moments and eventually shakes a hand along with his mane filled head. "I'll be fine, lads 'n' lasses. Jus' a little limp 'ere an' there. Ain't too big a deal, ya know? When the adrenaline kicks in, nobody's gonna know the difference."
Mirana looks around once more, "Well, I hate going in blind as much as the next being, but we don't have much to go on." she says. Dio's question makes her think a moment though, "Smoke, they said they saw smoke before being taken, and that they were drugged." she says, tapping her boots together a moment. The lioness isn't the picture of beauty, having been in a few fights before, and having a mostly athletic figure. "Well, I can tell you the last place someone was taking from, that we know of, was from Market Square."
Angus nods to Dio, reholstering the pistol. "Well, still...Wait, what?" His ears perk up as he turns to Amy, staring a little bit. "They saw smoke before being taken, and they were drugged? .....For the love of the Creators, I think I know who is doing this." He pinches the bridge of his nose, praying to the creators that he was wrong about this.....
Sylera shrugs as Dio brushes off the concern directed at him before turning back to the group at large or perhaps Angus. "You do?" She arches an eyebrow. "That was relatively quick. I suppose you'll be sharing then?"
"I think I remember hearin' somethin' 'bout this," Dio replies. "There was a snake lass, maybe some darts, I'm not sure. I mighta been a bit drunk at the time ya see." The lion rubs at his head and through his dense mane, using his other to wave at the new arrival. "If they're poisionin' people o' somethin', maybe I can help reduce the effects. At least a little..." Reaching into his pocket, he switches out his souls for something more water magic friendly, taking a minute to bless the group around him with a wonderful and refreshing blessing of water!
Angus rests his hand on the grip of his Rapier, squeezing the weathered leather. "The Technologists. A group that believes that we shouldn't be worshiping the creators. Last time I ran into them they were using torture to experiment on beings that displayed aspect of a Sacred family...And they are rather ruthless. Do not get captured." He comments bluntly, anger starting to rise as he remembers what they did to his sister. "Greeting Alanis, you're just in time to join us in a hunt."
Amy listens to Angus' words most and then to Dio, "Well, if you two have had some dealings or stories with them before, maybe you should lead us, do you think we should check out the 'secert' thieve's guild, the location of the last abduction, or do you have some other idea?" she asks, looking to Alanis as she joins them, "Lady Solacious." she says giving a curtsey, then blinks at Angus' explination, "Then... caution should be exercised." she says, a hand on one of her twin blades.
Sylera winces at the description of what the group might, and is, capable of. "Indeed caution seems to be warranted... The last abduction site might yeild clues..." Still the betta is a tad surprised that evidently people of some renown appear to have answered the call going by the guards reaction.
Running a few calculations within his head, Dio calls upon the wonderful powers of water magic to dwell up a splash of water upon the group around him. Rather than being an annoying soakage of aquatic measures, this water feels strangely refreshing, helping to ward off what may ail them in the future. "Technologist ya say? I ain't dedicated to one o' those sacred families 'r whatever, but we can't let that go aroun'..." The lion looks around for a few moments and then sets sights upon Angus. "Maybe we could set up a trap o' sorts? Ya got somethin' goin' on with yer tail, fox-kit."
Amy gives a slight growl to no one in particular, "Ok, if no one has any other ideas, lets be off to the last site of an abduction." She says, leading the way toward the Market Square. Once there, she takes a moment to point out the location, just infront of a jewlery shop, "The last abductie to be noticed missing was an apprentace from that shop. After leaving for the night two nights ago, he never returned for his next leasons. Wyld Garnarth, Lepord of the Adaptable Clan." She says, "It is suspected the he was taken there," She says pointing at the street corner between a pair of shops and leading into an alley way."
Angus turn, giving Dio a slight smirk. "Nah, my tail is supposed to be this way. Kitsune isn't my only sacred family Dio." He states, before following after Amy. When they get to the location he eyes the jewelry shop then the alleyway. "Last time I encountered these guys they were working out of the cellar of an abandoned house. So I believe Dio's idea of using me as bait might be a sound one. As they already know I'm of a sacred family." He taps the handle of his Rapier, waiting patiently for when he can tear the throats out of these beings, and their dispicible group....
As Dio works his magic Sylera accepts the blessing with a smile, looking at the lion with new respect. When they arrive the betta peers around the area listening to the others. At Angus's statement however she also looks at him with new respect. Seemed she was amongst very important people indeed. "I'd hate the thought of using someone as bait... But then it sounds as if you're known to them which could work for and against us..."
With his protective measures set upon the group, Dio switches his soul gems once more, replacing them with the ones he was wearing before. "Kitsune ya call it? How interestin'. I suppose it could work if we can hide good enough," he comments, following along with Amy and the rest of the group. "If we can't stop 'em in the act, findin' where they're takin' people will allow us to bust 'em like that drug den awhile back." Dio looks down at his own weapon and taps the heavy shield upon his back before looking at the rest of the group. "It'll be dangerous, but so are a lot o' things."
A brief flurry of activity, and then Sveta arrives on the scene just in time to join in on the action, quickly looking over the situation. Amy and Angus are given a terse nod each, the latter moreso than the former, Dio a roll of the eyes, and the new face...well, her usual calm demeanour. Saying nothing, the goshawk quickly takes stock of the situation, then prepares to ready her shield if need be.
Amy nods a bit, "Well, using someone as bait might not be a bad idea, and who better to use then Lord Solacious! I hear he gets into quite a few troubles, yes My Lord?" she asks with a bit of marriment. A smile to Sylera, "Just stay on your toes and keep a look out." she says. Dio, another nod, and a greeting to Sveta, "Good evening, glad you could join us, I take it you have heard the news?"
Angus gives Sveta a nod. "So, we are all in agreement then. I'll be bait?" He asks, ears flicking as he looks around. Wait, what was that? movement barely catches his eye, was that a small ball in the darkness? "Might not need the bait...." He comments just loud enough for the group to hear as his left had wraps around the grip of his rapier, ready to draw if it's what he thinks it is...
Sylera gives a nod to the new arrival then sighs. "Yes if bait is needed..." She cocks her head and looks at Angus curiously, a hand poised as if she had been about to reach into a pocket. "What do you mean?"
"Good to see ya lass," Dio waves as Sveta approaches the group. However, such greetings and pleasnetries are cut short as Angus announces a mysterious presence among them. The lion reaches to his back and pulls out his trusty iron buckler to defend himself from whatever enemy that may go against them.
"I did hear the news. That's why I'm here," Sveta replies. "And I was about to say - what, Angus?"
The small sphere that Angus noticed bursts into a thick black smoke, coating over everything near. It is pitch black and smells worse then Dio before his bath, searing the eyes and chocking anyone who tries to breath it in. With almost clockwork percecion, poisonous darts fly in from just about every angle. Sylera is hit, but is able to shake off the poisons effects, still in a cloud of black however. Amy and Sveta are hit squarely, both passing out from the effects. Angus and Dio's quick thinking and foot work ensures they are clear of where they were a moment ago, darts intended for them striking nothing but air and pavement. For those still awake, the sound of footfalls can be heard swiftly being made in the nearly impossible to see through smoke.
Angus was anticipating an attack, dropping to the cobblestone as the smoke bomb goes off to avoid the darts. He heard the thing whistling by, the sound of footsteps confirming that the darts were no longer flying. The fox hops back up, drawing his Rapier and activating the runes upon the blade to have it burst into pure white flames as he readies to deflect a blade or dart.
Sylera coughs as the cloud comes up right around her, the discomfort not disguising the impact of the dart. Thankfully it had merely hit a fin so whatever was on it was easily resisted along with the magic that the lion had blessed her with. She tries to backpedal out of the cloud while drawing her dagger.
"Gah!" Dio dives to the ground and covers his fuzzy head and leonine ears in an attempt to dodge out of the way of whatever projectile was about to his his body. Luckily, he managed to get by with but a minor scrape upon his elbow. The lion looks around and spots a bellowing of smoke and runs some more calculations in his head, unleashing a large gust to fan it away from the group using some air magic.
Darts and smoke out of nowhere! Unfortunately, Sveta is a little preoccupied with making social niceities, and doesn't realise the incoming missiles until it's too late. Hit squarely by one of them, she passes out and crumples to the cobblestone in quite the unceremonious fashion.
Air clearing, sight returning to those still awake, foot falls quickly beating away... but the party is down one Lioness! The night continues to darken, near perfect and exact timing as well, whomever these are they were heavily trained in the arts of their trade.
Angus growls, looking around rather quickly with his blade in hand. "Damn cowards!" He shouts, ears perking up as he looks north and takes off. "Dio help Sveta, they got Amy!" No way he was going to have Mira complain that he lost her subordinate!
Sylera blinks in surprise as not only the gust of wind blasts past her, fluttering her loose fins, as indeed what Angus says is true. "Comeon then!" She shouts back at Angus, rushing towards the north.
"They got the lioness lass?" Dio springs to his feet and brushes off his coat, looking around for the downed Sveta and immediately heading over for her for her position. The lion crouches down upon one knee and gently pats the goshawk's cheek with the back of his hand. "Ya gotta wake up, lass!" He says, looking around and then directing his gaze back at her. Time was of the essence here! Dio breathes in for a gigantic breath, filling his broad chest, and lets it all loose directly into Sveta's face via a powerful lion ROAR.
Sveta twitches from the full force of Dio's impressive leonine roar, coming to in a few moments. "What? Where? No, the laundry's been hung out to dry already...I...ugh, it smells!" Her eyes snap open even as her mind connects the dots and she reaches for the proverbial thorn in her neck, pulling it out with a grimace, considering flinging it away and eventually deciding to pocket the dart. "That...was uncalled for," she says, although it's not exactly clear whether she's referring to Dio or the dart.
Whomever they are, they are fast! Darting through the streets, knocking over rubish cans, pulling down hanging laundry as they go, there are five by count.. no.. six.. four? It is hard to count them in the dark, they are wairing full black jumpsuits. Angus gets tripped up by a few of the obsticles, starting to fall behind, however, Sylera is able to keep up despite clothes coming toward her face and lots of trash on the ground.
Awake and alart again, Dio and Sveta are still back at the site of the assult.
One would think all those lengthy fins on Sylera would slow the betta fish down but she manages to stay doggedly on the assailant's tail. A dancer's grace helping to avoid the worse of the obstacles. "Should have switched sooner..." She mutters, regretting her choice of 'armaments' but continues on regardless hoping to get close enough to put that dagger to use.
"Dammit!" Angus just couldn't keep up, stumbling over a box as he trys to follow. "Keep on their tail!" He shouts to Sylera, growing as he slices a shirt that was thrown his way....
Dio chuckles while watching Sveta regain consciousness, soon getting off his knee and brushing off his pants. "Welcome back, lass! Sorry to make ya get movin' after a fine nap, but they took our little lioness friend!" He begins to jog in place in a rather comedic fashion and looks towards the direction Angus and what's her name fish took off towards. "This way, lass! This way! I wonder if we can fin' a few shortcuts through the city..." Vroom! Using those strong lion legs, he's off!
Still a little woozy from just coming to, Sveta takes off after Dio, doing her best to keep up. It's a bit of a struggle, but she manages to do so - or at least, keep pace with Dio, if not Angus and Sylera.
As they are completely caught up to, two of the abductors turn in the small alley, blocking the way forward while.... three, maybe, more continue running along, carrying Amy along with them. One takes out a dagger and swapes at Sylera, missing her as she avoids it, and is rewarded by a ball shot to the shoulder for his? actions. Angus' isn't far away at this point, and Sveta and Dio can see Angus' shot.
Finally, success! Though said success forces the betta to spin neatly to avoid that dagger stroke, which makes her even angrier at not having properly set herself before this whole business began. That spin however probably had distracted the figure from noticing Angus's pistol however. "Nice shot!" She shouts, lunging forward at the hit figure trying to take advantage of that wound.
Angus started to catch up, sheathing his rapier to instead draw the pistol that he had offered Dio as he notices two of the abductors turn to by their friends sometime. "Out of our way!" He shouts, taking aim as he charges forward and squeezing the trigger on one of the barrels. Success, he hit his target. But he doesn't stop, surging forwad and bring his shoulder low as he charges the uninjured abductor!
Dio makes a small jump after getting a bit surprised from hearing a gunshot, his eyes focusing upon the gunman in question and sprinting towards them. "Good job lad," he shouts, running some calulcations in his head. "I'm gonna go on ahead an' see if I can keep up!" With the power of air magic, the lion flies over the barracade of beings and takes off for the runners once more!
Unlike Dio, Sveta isn't one to waste all that wonderful momentum - besides, she isn't about to turn her back on a potential threat without dealing with them first. Pulling out her huge tower shield, she goshawk soundly charges the barricade of beings, pushing through and scattering them with ease and leaving the lot of them dazed as she does her best to keep up with Dio. At least now that lot aren't going to be firing anything after them while they give chase.
A shoulder check, a quick lunge, flying over, or knocking them away with a shield, mostly ignored, the two did manage their job, by the time everyone is through the others are completely out of sight. Knocked around the remaining to get up once more, and toss down another smoke bomb! The alley fills with the thick, disgueting stuff, making the already dark alley nearly impossible to see into, catching Angus and Sylera inside it.
Sylera coughs getting shakily to her feet and attempting to stagger in the direction she thinks they had been heading in before, trying to get out of the cloud. Where grace could keep from being hit from in front it did not grant such from being taken from behind... "Where'd they go?"
Angus growls as he hits his target, grabbing at them as Sveta charges through and staggers them all. He keeps hold of his target, trying to keep them from fleeing as the smoke bombs goes off and he starts coughing. Bringing his pistol up to use as a buldgeon if the abductor trys to escape.
Dio puts a hand to his golden forehead and begins searching around the area for any clues. Any at all! He look desperetly for any sort of answer until his leonine eyes spot something amiss amongst a nearby building. "Over there," he points, finger directed upon the third building on his left. "Some paw prints on that door, lads. We could probably call some guards 'n' bust it real good."
"Probably, yes," Sveta says, moving in closer to examine the prints. "Probably get this place surrounded, at least. Might not be foolproof, but at least it'll make it harder for them to slip away. I'm sure Angus has a bit of clout where these things are concerned, doesn't he?"
The ninjas work over Angus quickly, getting the one under free, and slipping away, his hold barely not enough to keep him there, definately a him though. Meanwhile the smoke continues to hold in the alley way.
Sylera stumbles out of the cloud, looking around briefly, before trotting over to Dio and Sveta. Eyeing the Goshawk with her shield a bit warily. "Calling more guards would be a good idea but I'm worried that they might slip away despite seeming to be trapped." The betta says giving the door a frown.
Angus loses his grip, cursing himself as the ninja manages to get away. "Dammit!" Standing up he waves his arms, trying to get the smoke clear as he walks out of the smoke and walks to the others. "Find anything?" He asks, cocking back the hammer on the second barrel of his pistol as he gets ready to put a round an anyone that gets in their way...
"Regardless," Dio responds. "We need some guards fer the two ya got back there. 're ya sure the Fox-kit is okay? They'll be good fer an interrogation late- Ah!" The lion looks as Angus pushes his way out of the smoke, and then back at the door. "Not gonna waste anymore time. I'm goin' in. I think they went in 'ere..." Buckler held out in front of him, Dio slowly opens the paw-print smudged door and looks around.
"Oh, we wouldn't all be leaving at once. It would've been just Angus. But if you don't want to take the risk, that's fine by me. Angus, do whatever you like." Giving everyone a nod, Sveta takes up position just a little behind Dio as he opens the door, ready to step forward if need be.
Sylera shrugs, those fins flowing with the motion. "One would hope they don't have to large of an operation in one place... Would be harder to hide." Regardless she takes up position to follow the others in, and keep watch over their backs.
So far, so good. Dio looks back at the people falling behind him and continues raising his shield for any future attacks upon his friends or himself, eyes flickering and gazing around the mysterious building to evaluate and perhaps discern where exactly they are, and where the culprits could've gone.
So far, so good. Dio looks back at the people falling behind him and continues raising his shield for any future attacks upon his friends or himself, eyes flickering and gazing around the mysterious building to evaluate and perhaps discern where exactly they are, and where the culprits could've gone. It was quite dark in the room, making this process rather difficult. With a bit of fire magic, he creates a small orb of light to illuminate the area within. Perhaps it may get them detected, but clues were needed!
Angus steps up behind Dio, nodding as he brings his gun up. "Alright, lets go." He comments, moving in after Dio with his gun held hig, ready to fire upon any advancing opponents.
As the room is lit up, there is no one inside!! The doorways are clear, curretens that would permit privacy here and there, but all are open. A table, a rug, the front door, just three rooms. A range for cooking, and a bed room, with no interior doors. It is easy to see, the rug wasn't put all the way back proper, underground!
Angus frowns as it's empty, looking over the room before his eyes alighted on the rug. "Think they went underground?" He asks Dio as he walks over and kicks the rug, holstering his pistol as he grabs for the ring on the trap door if there is one.
"It should be more difficult for them to move under there carrying someone no?" Sylera asks, sweeping into the room behind the others. Still opportunity was opportunity and the betta adjusts something with her clothing. "We might beable to catch up."
With the initial adrenaline rush of being attacked and triggering that instinctual flight or flight response finally over, the pain from his recovering injuries finally catches up to him in one giant mass of ouch. With a grunt of pain, the lion drops to one knee and grips at his stomach. "Damn," he mumbles under his breath. "Fox-kit, why don't ya try sneakin' down there? If they don't 'ave any light, I'll follow up behind ya in no time at all."
Sveta nods. "I expected as much. This place might be useful when it comes to providing clues as to who these folk were, but we should give chase for the moment. Wonder just how narrow it gets, though? With all the tunnels under Firmament proper, it's a wonder the whole city hasn't collapsed under its weight already."
With the hatch open, a stench is easily smelled, it leads into the waste pipes!! However, no light and no sounds to be heard....
Angus looks to Dio and nods. "I'll take a look." He nearly gags at the stench, wondering why beings like this always seem to head to the Sewers before he drops down into the Hatch and looks around, wondering if he can pick up the trail.
Even from her position behind the others the betta wrinkles her nose against that smell. "They must have a hideout in... There. I can't imagine they go back out into the city proper after moving through that." Still Sylera couldn't help but take another look around the rooms while Angus looked below.
Just a little further! Dio gives his face a good hard punch to beat the pain and rises to his feet once more with another loud grunt. The blast of stench his his sensitive nose, causing the poor lion to pinch upon the bridge of his nose with little effect. "Hoo wee," Dio exasperates. "Well, at least we know 'ow they're gettin' 'round the city."
Sveta winces at the smell, but nods. "I'll stay here with...um...I didn't quite get your name," she says to Sylera, then turns back to Dio. "Best to stick in pairs, at the very least. No knowing if more of them might return while the both of you are down there - don't want anyone else taken."
Unfortunately any trail that might have been made would have washed away long ago, and with no sounds or lights to follow, there is nearly no way to know which of the three ways they could have gone, nor which branch they might have taken from there. Amy is gone.
Sylera blinks in surprise. "Oh... All this and I never introduced myself to anyone." She curtsies, her long and colored fins adding an interesting flair to the gesture. "I am Sylera of the Water Folk. Relatively recent arrival to Firmament."
Angus looks down the three existing pathes, scowling as the trail turns cold. "...Lets head back up." He comments to Dio, turning slowly back to the hatch as his hands clench into fists. He would never hear the end of this from Mira, just another being lost while under his watch.....
Dio looks at his buckler and suddenly bangs the piece of metal against the walls for a satisfying and echoing noise. "Yeah, yeah..." he mumbles under his breath in defeat as he makes his way back to the surface. "Maybe we can set up an ambush ' somethin' in this 'ere 'ouse the next night." With a nod to Sylera, he doesn't say much more, which is a bit of a change for the normally talkative lion. Perhaps a beer might be in order, damn his health.
"Well met, Sylera. I'm Sveta. An odd time for introductions, but..." she glances at Angus and Dio as they emerge from the hatch, then scowls. "Well, seems like this turned up empty. And for all that effort too...I can only guess that this isn't over, though. Still, this place should be scoured a little more thoroughly, even if a stakeout is unlikely to bear any fruit since they know we're know of this place."
"Indeed..." A sorrowful look passes over the betta's face as the two males come back empty handed. "Granted I hardly know anyone in this fair city but it still pains my heart to see something like this happen. Perhaps in the future now that we know their trick it can be stopped however."
