Hydaelyn Role-Players

Cliodhna mearly bounced her shoulders slightly. "Not their entire life story, but little tid-bits here and there are common if it's a skill that could seem useful in the future." She wasn't so much concerned as his aversion to mentioning it as simply using it as another tool to show how much she had found out in the short span of time that had been available to search. This of course was pretty common information as Sieg had plainly stated, but it was a stepping stone to other things about the man that was less common.

"The ones that fail to adapt to a quickly changing situation, are hired to be used as fodder or lack proper training die. You clearly survived when so many in your group was lost. Seems your team was outmatched or more than a few slacked in their training for that to happen." Replying with a faint smile. His continued pacing never leaving her line of sight. It was a bit of a harsh statement, but one that usually held true, nonetheless.

"I've most likely seen more than my fair share but it's not something that keeps me awake at night. The incident at the bridge was something I plan to rectify as soon as possible." Brows raised at his latter comment. "Yes there is a weapon I've currently got my hand on and I'll even be nice enough to inform you it wouldn't take much more than a scratch for me to get the desired result with it, but it's only a precautionary measure and I've little intent to use it unprovoked. Being in your former line of work; you should be well aware that during conversations of this nature and having the other party unable to stay still would of course call for this sort of reaction."

She smirked again. "Wouldn't they be though? This has been a long standing....confrontation." As he towered over her, Cliodhna met his eyes without any sort of fear or hesitation; her tone soft to ensure it wasn't overheard by the others. "You're right it's not, but I had to at least ensure you're going to be useful until we're out of this and not a loose end I'd need to tie up." Braking her gaze long enough to see Youkio arrive with Siha and another in tow.

"Right right." Youkio answered Miss Siha in an easy manner. Kiht's question made him pause a moment. Tilting his head, frowning slightly and scratching behind his right ear, Youkio tried to recall the first few moments after announcing his presence. "Ah, shoot!" He exclaimed.

"Sorry ladies, no wonder ya'll were skittish 'round me. Well that an the showin up outta nowhere." He Grinned again. "Anywhoo, I go by Youkio most times but if ya end up out this way an in another spot of trouble like now; look for Piper. I can't resist helpin lovely ladies after all." He said with a most likely ill-effective wink due to the black eye.

Skittles after waking up, shook out his feathers, hopped once on Seig's head as a sign of thanks nd swooped over to land on Youkio's shoulder. "He means he'll help if there's a chance ya'll put out." The parrot cawed before youkio clamped a finger and thumb over it's beak.

"Shut it ya miserable little shite." He grumbled at skittle before swiging open the door and leading everyone into the shack; lighting the lamps on the way. It was in worse shape than the darkness hinted. Inside was big enough for them all to stand comfortably, with a small table and lone chair shoved into the corner.

Scattered around were a few changes of clothes and little else recognizable in the clutter. Off to the side appeared a smaller doorway that led to the bedroom where a narrow cot had been lying against the wall Next to a tall pile of what looked to be blankets and more clothing made out of surprisingly finer material such as fur, linen and silk.

"Yeah....so this is it. Sorry it ain't much Tempest. I uh....had to vacate my apartment in the upper decks." Youkio mumbled, staring at his boots. With Geruda in the hands of another; he was unable to continue his side job that supported his more comfortable lifestyle.

She impatiently waved him off. "It's fine, this is fine, we only need it long enough to catch a few hours sleep and plan our next move, after that we'll need to head to Ul'dah." Cliodhna replied, giving Siha a leveled look. "They already have one or more by now but they won't stop till they round us all up. If the one in their custody talks; they'll know we we're to go to the Shroud. If not, they won't expect us in the city and in either case we can attempt rescue."

Nako walked slowly through the tree's, scanning his head left and right as he went, using his staff for a support. He had been in Coerthas many times, but he was still not as familiar with the terrain as he would like. Occasionally, a pipping would sound in his ears, and some runes would scrawl acrross his vision as his visor picked up something of interest, but each time he would clear them, they weren't what he was after.

As he reached the top of a rock formation, he saw a plume of smoke in the distance, he started into a run. He may be on a hunt, but a fire of that magnitude meant someone was probably in trouble. As he ran, he allowed his goggles to focus on the plume of smoke, allowing it to scan for any discernable aetherial signature.

'Ignis, Biologicum' were what the runes scrolling across his vision came back with. 'Thal's Balls' he thought as he picked up the pace. that was a blessing that it wasn't a mage, however, it meant either dragons or some other fire breathing monstrosity. Rounding a corner, the entrance to the Observatorium came into view, as it did a thought crossed his mind. A Miqo'te in the middle of Coerthas with no escort with him would most likely raise some suspicion, with a shimmer of opalescent magic, his form changed into that of an Elezen as he ran.

Kiht allowed herself to continue a small smile at Youkio as he told them his name. But then the bird landed on his shoulder and talked at her! Kiht widened her eyes a bit. The Hells did that bird say? She thought to herself. Did that bird just form a complete sentence based on the context of their conversation?

Kiht wanted that bird.

However, everyone seemed in a hurry, and she did not blame them. She also found herself making a double-take at Tempest. She was not a Hellsguard woman. Kiht did not recognize her at all. Yet, the woman was all business from the beginning. She immediately started giving directions like some kind of leader... Kiht could already tell that she would like this Tempest lady.

Kiht also had no idea who the man was either. Too many unfamiliar faces. This was not going to be easy. Kiht watched as Tempest talked to Siha and Youkio, she did not seem to be well noticed. Kiht was use to that, and she did not want too much attention, but it was not the time to be shy either. By the sound of things, the Red Wings were being picked off one by one.

After a quick survey of the shack, which Kiht actually liked a lot, she stepped closer to Siha and Tempest. "Greetings. My apologies for interrupting. I am Kiht Jakkya. " She announced as she made a rather formal Eorzean bow at Tempest. Kiht just loved getting right to the point. Now she would not have to play the greeting game with every single person in the shack.

"May I ask which one of your comrades you think might be captured?" Kiht asked in a clear, but respectful tone.

Siha smiled as warmly as possible but there was still tension in her face, every minute wasted was a minute Mikh'a or Kahn'a could be getting hurt. She kept the sentiment to herself however and had a distraction a few moments later in the form of a very odd talking bird...she'd seen parrots mimic but speak freely?! Her violet eyes widened a fraction before she shook her head to clear it and turned her attention to the occupants, something in the air felt...off. A quick furrow of her brow and assessment of them however yielded nothing and so she settled on giving them both a nod in greeting as she stepped into the smallish interior. She didn't really mind the mess so much, her own room was often cluttered with books, notes, sketches, clothes, and a myriad of other things related to cooking and weaving. His own mess was nothing to be ashamed of, just noted in a curious sort of sense.

She only let her eyes sweep the room quickly before she was back to her own business, her gaze moving over to Kiht for a moment to check on her, before she was focusing on Clio's words. As much as it hurt her she felt doubt burgeon at the orders, could they afford to lose a day on saving who was at the Flame Hall and risk their quarry moving on? She wasn't sure they could. She swallowed the question however, she wanted to save their friends just as much as Clio did, but she didn't want to lose their chance at salvation on the same token. There was of course a simple answer to this and once her mind settled on it her doubts were quelled, "I can speak with someone in the city and have them keep an eye on these bandits if we can find their whereabouts. He's discreet and we can trust him implicitly...Youkio could even speak to him if needed" her father. He was a resource and his movement around the city was normal as could be, no one knew of their attachment as she'd always been careful.

Kiht's question made her heart ache and she fixed her with saddened eyes, "We're not sure but they mentioned it was a Keeper...that could only mean they have Kahn'a or Mikh'a...I believe you've met him as well at the eclipse celebration..." she answered softly. She hated thinking of either of them in the grips of people who didn't trust them, there was no telling what was happening to them. Her stomach knotted and bile rose but she swallowed, perhaps nothing, perhaps she should have more faith in the Flames than she did now but with this being anything but the first time...

She needed to focus. As for the task of the Flame's Hall, it would be dangerous throwing themselves into the maw of the beast but she had a half plan already forming in the back of her mind. "I might have a plan for the Flame's Hall if you haven't got one already..." she looked to Cliodhna and there was a spark in her eyes, it could be stupid but maybe so stupid that it might work given their reputation right now.

Cliodhna nodded briefly at Kiht's introduction. "You've already met youkio, the big guy is Seighart." She replied, carefully dropping the saddlebags that had been removed from Pepper. Given their contents, it wasn't wise to leave them outside. "As Siha said; we know one could be either Khan'a or Mikh'a....if there's a possibility of the others; it's hard to tell at this point. Half our team was to head north while a third was to stay here. Seig, Siha an myself were originally contacting you as means to safely get to the Shroud but I feel that plan needs to change and would appreciate any help you can offer in getting more information before we leave Limsa."

Impatiently she pulled her hair off her shoulders and bunched before taking a bit of cord and binding it in a semi loose bun. It was enough to keep out of her face but still free to not tug. "Siha, I know you're worried about who was captured and right now there could be a high chance others have been scooped up as well but we need to find out who put these orders out first. We can't rush straight into Ul'dah blind. That will only leave us open...as far as your contact goes; I'm sure Youkio will be more than happy to go to find them."

He nodded in confirmation at the sound of his name. "I'm here for whatever ya'll need...Who's the bandit we're lookin for anyway?" He asked, idly grabbing a few pieces of dry fruit off the table before offering one to Skittles.

"A Lalafell and two Miqo'te....It was odd, from what I had seen, they acted more like it was a grand performance than an actual heist attempt." Cliodhna mused. "The lala epically, he seemed to be enjoying himself....I didn't catch his name but the others kept calling him captain Distraction or something."

At the last part of her words, Youkio slammed his fist into the wall. "Damnit all! I know exactly who you're talkin about!" He seethed, eyes narrowed. "That whoreson stole me damn ship!"

"Don't lie." Skittles pipped up. "Ya know damn well he caught ya cheatin at cards cause ya got drunk off yer ass that night an was sloppy."

Cliodhna stared at the two of them as they continued to bicker. Youkio had a tie with the group that had carried out the setup, he was quickly becoming more and more useful.

"You know who he is? Can you find him so we can arrange a meeting?" Cliodhna asked, a hint of hope creeping into her tone.

"This is why I make ya sit at the house all day, this right here! Ya can't keep yer damn beak shut 'less I stuff it with honey!" Youkio exclaimed.

"Well scue me for tryin to keep ya honest, you'd be dead in a week if I left ya alone an ya know it!" Skittles retorted

"youkio...." Cliodhna repeated, patience waring thin.

"Damned loudmouth bird, if it weren't fer me, you'd still be in that damned cage on her way to be auctioned off cause you can talk, Gods knows why anyone would wanna buy ya with that attitude ya got!" Youkio growled, ignoring Cliodhna's attempt at interruption.

"PIPER! SHUT YER MOUTH OR I'LL KNOCK A FEW TEETH LOOSE TO MATCH YER EYE!" She exploded, grabbing the tall keeper by the ear and giving it a yank.

"aright, aright! Just leggo, ya about ripped me damn earring out!" He whined but in a more subdued manner. "Yes, I know the little bastard and I can find em quick enough for ya."

"Aright, we'll hammer out the details for that in a moment. Siha, what's the idea you have for getting into Flame Hall?" Cliodhna asked, her temper vanished as quickly as it appeared.

Sieg was glad that the bird had left.  It was annoying having it sit on his head.  When Clio introduced him, his raised a hand, and gave a small wave.  He was relieved that his group was back together.

Good to see you made it.  He said to Siha.

For now, all Sieg could really do was wait and hear out the plans, so, taking a spot by the door, h ecrossed his arms and did just that.

Kiht's ears drooped low when it was mentioned that Kahn'a could be captured. She did not really know Mikh'a aside from the quick introduction at the eclipse event, but the idea of yet another Keeper likely being tortured was very disturbing to Kiht. Her mental and physical reactions were likely just as intense as Siha's, but Kiht was good at hiding such things. Outside observers would only notice the lowered ears.

Kiht gave a nod after Tempest spoke to her. Kiht was to help them get information before they left Limsa. Simple enough. She waited until Tempest was done being a tempest with Youkio before replying.

"I am a scout. Gathering information is my specialty. However, I would also be willing to help you all put an end to the shite individuals who set you all up. The Red Wings leader is also a friend of mine, and I am tired of people trying to swive him over." Kiht said in a determined tone. She was not sure if it was okay to mention Erik's real name since apparently everyone was going by code names except maybe Siha.

It was at that moment when Kiht's restless mind began to try and think of what Siha's code name might be. Night Violet? Moon-sprite? Kiht thought to herself. She then shook her head quickly. She was getting distracted. She needed to stay focused, and listen to the plans.

((Sorry for not posting guys, I was busy getting hit by a truck or thats what it felt like))

Ryder sat about and explained the situation. First off the Red Wings, and what they were. As he carried on he could see the man's face across the table react to him. Then he felt his own face contort, "In short they have grown to dangerous for you and your men, and it seems I am no longer trusted. So they are taking them both out of our hands. Flame Command has asked that you turn over your prisoners. And I it seems is to get the fuck out of the way. So this brings me to the thoughts of a man who has played these games before. Now the orders I'm to pass to you say you are to back off, and that I can't use my resources to find my own men and women. So!..... Since these orders are the same shit orders that hit before chances are they belong to the dingle that started this mess. Since your men are such good hunters, I say we leave the Red Wings to themselves as they wear big boy clothes anyway, and you let me borrow these men of your's and we hunt the asshole behind this mess."

A'trus stared at the superior officer as if a dead rat had been tossed into the miqo'te's lap. Stand down? The Black Chains and then let his men be used without his consent in a continued hunt that he had just been forced to stand down from? Was this a joke? Was the Commander playing games with him?

A'trus considered that. How did he know that this man wasn't also part of the hunt? A sympathetic ear for the unit A'trus hunted?  He could be but without proof that was a dangerous road to take and could result in his discharge from the service. Something A'trus had no desire of lettinghhappen. After a few minutes of silence, A'trus looked at Ryder and spoke.

"You are my superiour, and as such I am.required to obey your orders, though there is questions in my.mind if you might not be overaly loyal to your unit and maybe part of this conspiracy and their agent. But I am.required to obey orders I can rationally carry out so I will turn over the prisoners as per your request. However, my unit will NOT aid you with your own personal hunt. We will stand down but no more. I will not risk my career or theirs in your which hunt sir. The Red Wings are big boys. They can handle it, you said it yourself."

A'trus stared at his superior with a steely expression.

Titor's Cell

Kresha approaches Titor and after a moment slashed his face with her nails. She struck left to right then right to left then down. Blood dripped off her fingers and tufts of flesh had caught under her nails. She nodded as she stepped away and began cleaning off her hand as one man stepped forward and wrapped Titor's bleeding face in a towle . Once the thick fabric was secure, the second man took the bucket and let spill the salty brine and for thirty seconds air would not reach Title as the water ran down his nostrils, his mouth and into his gashes.

"Where are the Red Wings." Kresha said calmly
 "You know more than the other one we have in our possession obviously. Now where?"

Ryder correct A'trus, "That is the rub son, its not me you are turning them over too. I was kicked from this process too. No they are being passed to far above my head."

A'trus blinked and exhaled sharply in frustration as he tried to keep the scowl off his face. 

"This is why I will never accept.a higher rank. All politics and games with the upper echelons. Least some of us know how to do our jobs. Fine, you want my unit, I want the paper orders signed and stamped. As for the prisoners, where do you want them taken?"

"No argument there. Ever since I made this rank and was put in charge of this asylum of a unit I spend more time with alchemist over ulsers then I do my kids." Ryder leaned back in his seat. "Someone is coming for them I was told."

It burned, everything burned. He already hated water, even more so when it was briny, and even more when it was assaulting all of his senses at once. His body tensed as he could not breathe, as his wounds were irritated in the worst possible way. Try as he might to keep his eyes closed behind the cloth, the water seeped its way in.

And the lack of oxygen was the topping, already lacking on the oxygen department due to his anemia, the sudden cutoff caused him an insurmountable amount of chest pain. His lungs were screaming, burning, begging for some of the air. None came.

Once the water stopped, his whole body was trembling, the blood soaking the cloth that clung so tightly to his face.

He had been screaming as best he could during the assault, though it mostly came out as gurgles. When he finally had enough calm to mutter out a word, he choked out "...why." 

They were making quite the convincing argument. He had a slight idea where some of the Wings would be.

He continued trembling violently, seeming to come from his very core.  He had to stay strong, for his Unit, for whom he thought had the best intent.

"... For coin and country." He whimpered pathetically, trying to keep some resolve but he was not going to be able to take much more. He felt his energy draining from him, seeping from him, much more of the deoxygenation and blood loss and he would soon be unconscious,
He welcomed it at this point. He wanted it. Nothing more than to lose consciousness.