The beep in his ear was familiar. It was the Friends of Momodi linkshell. Kage brought a finger to his ear to listen. Several voices rang over the linkshell that Natalie found. Now… well now Natalie was out and she’d broken her pearl the same night she left. The voices were of course familiar.
"Evening, everyone." That was Chokho Viqqoh, a friend of Salem Nunh’s that Kage found was quite enjoyable to be around even if her jokes were bad.
“Evening,†answered Altima. She was an interesting Miqo’te. Altima sometimes put Kage on edge because of her axe but he knew she was a good one. He wished she wasn’t so adamant about sparring with him though. It was intimidating.
Another voice, one he wasn’t so familiar with rang as well. "Evening, Chokho. You wanted to speak with me about something?"
Chokho answered, "I did! You available?"
"GOOD MORNVENING" That was Marrow.
The same voice who he didn’t recognize answered, "Yeah, I am. Where would you like to meet up?"
Closing his eyes, Kage mumbled softly. "Evening..."
Chokho answered the voice, "I'm in the quickand now. That seems like a good starting point."
Altima asked, "y-you're alive kage?"
The voice answered, "Alright, I'll be over in a few."
"Perfect! Kage, you can pass word on to Nat that I need to talk to her, too.†Chokho once again.
Kage frowned at Altima’s question. He didn’t know she had heard… How did she know something had happened to him? He spoke into the pearl, "Oh. I assumed no one was on to hear my call since... only a pink female haired Miqo'te answered it." He paused, thinking about what to tell Chokho.
"Natalie is currently indisposed. You won't see her for awhile," Kage answered.
Chokho asked, "How long is a while?"
"I apologize, I didn't have my linkpearl with me..." came from Altima.
Kage answered, "A few days at the very least. It’s ok Altima. I live.â€
Chokho asked, "Anything to do with ceruleum?"
Kage paused. "Sorry Chokho, I'm not at liberty to answer."
Marrow wanted to know, "...is she alright?"
"Right, well I'm going to be up to my eyeballs in the stuff, so you go ahead and let her - or any other concerned Sultansworn know," said Chokho.
"I'm currently on medical leave, and Natalie is on leave as well."
"I'll bring it up with Roen directly, then."
"But I'll meet with you too. Roen's got things she needs to deal with."
"I am ENTIRELY aware of what Roen has to deal with."
At this Kage gave a pause and narrowed his eyes. What exactly was Chokho up to? What did she know? He needed to find out. "I won't speak of it in the public but I'm going to ask you directly how you are."
"We've all got a case of tight lips, it seems."
Naz said over the linkshell, "I just hate talking on this thing."
Kage walked around, looking for Chokho who had said she was in the area of the Quicksand. "Cho, I've been walking around Quicksand. Where are you."
"...I'm so confused...why does all this pimmcred happen when I'm not around..." said Marrow.
Chokho answered, "I'll be along in a bit. I've got another important conversation on my plate."
Kage sighed. The Quicksand was bustling with people, drinking and conversing. His usual spot atop of the rail was crowded with people milling about there. Close to the entrance, the railing was clear of people so Kage perched on top, waiting for Chokho to arrive.
Chokho Viqqoh grinned tauntingly at Kage, “Hey buddy.â€
“Cho." Kage gave the female Miqo’te a nod.
Unseen by Kage whose back was turned to the entrance, Roen Deneith walked into the Quicksand, her grey eyes scanning the patrons in it.
Chokho asked Kage, “How you feeling?†before her eyes caught sight of Roen. She smiled at Roen. Roen herself spotted the small Lalafellin form of Kage, and her eyes narrowed at the sight of him.
Chokho waved to someone behind Kage and said, “Ro right? From the ball?â€
‘Ro?’ Kage thought. Then he realized who it might be but hoped it wasn’t. He knew she would not like what she saw… and heard. Especially if Natalie did tell her to check up on him… He looked around. He winced at the sight of Roen, knowing that he was most likely in some trouble. He was unable to hide the fact that his arm was in a sling and the bandages wrapped around his bruised head.
Roen blinked at Chokho’s question. "Oh. Yes. Um... Cho...?"
"Roen..." Kage mumbled as Chokho nodded to Roen. Roen glanced between Kage and Chokho both.
Chokho answered, “Cho. Good to see you well.â€
Kage had already known that the Quicksand was not the venue in which he wanted to speak with Chokho, but he knew that linkshells were not the most private channels of communication. He hadn’t wanted to ask Chokho to meet him somewhere he thought would give them privacy. He suggested, "Perhaps we can take this somewhere privately... Roen, Cho seemed to have some information that worried me... about what you're dealing with."
Roen nodded to Chokho. "How is Naz...?" She asked politely, although her eyes wandered back to Kage and his... injuries. Chokho smiled at Roen before Roen blinked at Kage’s remark.
"What... -I- am dealing with?" She asked. She gave Kage a pointed look at his injury, emphasis on Kage.
Chokho remarked, “HE'LL be fine. Kage has a good head on his shoulders.†She pointed her next question to Roen, “How about you?â€
Kage winced and murmured at Roen’s pointed glance, "You've got a lot to deal with...But we should head somewhere private. I don't think this should be out in the public."
Chokho nodded in response to Kage’s suggestion. Roen glanced to them both, wondering how and when this became about her. "Um. Alright. Aye, let us talk somewhere more private..."
Kage walked closer to Roen first, cupping a side of his mouth and whispered, “We should head to the airship bar.†He blinked before turning to face Chokho once more. He whispered the same words that he had given to Roen, “We should head to the airship bar.â€
Kage turned and looked around, checking the patrons before he started to exit the Quicksand. Looking behind him, he could see Chokho and Roen following behind him. His eyes scanned around them, trying to make sure it was safe. From behind him he could hear Chokho ask Roen, “So how ya been?†Chokho grinned at Roen as Roen gave both Kage and Chokho an odd look while she followed them.
Having made their way to the tables situated in the airship docking area, Kage worried his lip as they stopped. Chokho grinned tauntingly at Roen while Roen narrowed her eyes. It was an expectant look at them both and Kage worked hard not to fidget.
Roen gestured to one of the chairs. "You should sit Kage. You are hurt." She didn’t leave room for argument. Kage bit his lip and nodded, taking a seat in one of the chairs.
“Not like you to get hurt so bad, Kage. Sultansworn must be keeping dangerous enemies, these days,†said Chokho.
Roen gave him a stern look. She was about to say something... then gave Chokho a look herself.
Kage knew Roen would want to talk to him about he was hurt. Natalie did say she had sent Roen a letter after all. But he was worried about what Chokho may or may not know about Roen. How did she know? What did she know?
"Let's not talk about that.. Cho you mentioned something you thought the Sultansworn? Ceruleum? And something about knowing what Roen has to deal with?" He frowned.
Roen blinked, there was an odd expression before she turned back to Kage. "Wait Kage, how did you- she paused again and raised her brows.
Chokho retorted, “You don't hide a ceruleum explosion.â€
Kage narrowed his eyes. How did Chokho know anything about their involvement in it. The only thing people should know was that there was an explosion of ceruleum at the Nanawa mines. As far as he knew, Natalie never reported it or her involvement in it.
Trying to fish for information Kage let loose, “We never reported that..."
Chokho scoffed, “It's an EXPLOSION. They EXPLODE.†She failed to understand Kage, throwing her hands up into the air a little.
Roen said, "What..? Oh. Um. Right." She gave Kage a sidelong glance. "Aye, I heard about that... explosion..." She cleared her throat. It was clear that Roen was such a terrible liar.
Kage wanted to try to deflect the situation and asked, "So how do you know who's involved?"
Roen asked, "What do you know about that?" She pressed her lips together.
Chokho just replied, “I should hope so. I imagine you know a thing or two about Hroch, Shae, and the rest too.
At Chokho’s remark, Roen coughed very loudly. "Um... what??
Based on Roen’s reaction, he knew that those named must have been involved somehow. Were one or all of them at the mines? Was one of them the old man who was gravely injured falling off the platform? Kage couldn’t hide his reaction to Roen, widening his eyes.Chokho shrugged, not able to understand him.
“Who?†Kage asked. Who where they? Roen stared with wide eyes at Chokho. Kage continued, “I don’t know these names…†He glanced at Roen, hoping to find some hint. She only continued to just stare at Chokho, mouth agape.
“You're not a secret-keeping organization,†commented Chokho. What did she know? How did she know of anything?
"How do you know these names?" Roen asked, directing Chokho with a strange look.
Kage shook his head. He knew that these people must be involved but he had no idea. "No... I actually don't know these names." He looks around. "But yes, an explosion I do know."
Chokho sighed and asked, “ ...Does everyone really think I just sit around the Quicksand all day for NO good reason?†She looked stumped.
"But they..." Roen continued to stare. Then slowly her eyes narrowed. "Cho. Why are you telling me this?"
Chokho answered, “Because there are people who are concerned for you. And if I found out considering I'm NOT a part of your games imagine who else is going to find out.â€
Kage’s heart dropped. It felt like his head was being pounded into the floor again. Who was talking? Natalie wasn’t. He wasn’t. The people from the… Night Blades? Surely not. If they were in the know, they would not go about like this, Kage was sure of it. Who was this person? Who are these people?
Roen paled a little. "How much... do you know?"
Chokho shook her head, disagreeing with Roen. She said, “The fact that I've heard talk is bad enough. Let's not make that chatter any louder, alright?â€
Kage frowned. Just who was talking? The people that Roen has met before? Garleans? The Rose? Who? He turned to Roen. "Roen, I wanted to talk to Chokho because she said something like this over the linkshell. I wanted to see what it was about."
Kage didn’t know what to say. This… Who was talking and who was Chokho talking about it with?
Roen shook her head, still a look of disbelief lingering on her face. Chokho continued to speak. “Information has ALWAYS been my business. But I'm not in in for the coin... I, and other's choosing to remain nameless, are concerned for your well being.â€
Roen trained her gaze onto Chokho. "You still have not said what you want." Her voice lowered.
Grinning tauntingly, Chokho answered simply. “You. Safe.â€
Kage’s voice almost turned with a hint of… something. "Cho, it's very important that you please let us know everything that deals with Roen at least." His voice was low as his injured arm shook. "I don't want to see her hurt or get hurt."
Chokho stated, “The hedonist who only wants gold is as much a lie as my incompotence.â€
Roen blinked. "And... there is -another- that knows as you do?"
Chokho nodded at Roen’s question, answering, “Ah ah, at LEAST one other. I know this when I shouldn't... but the trouble is I don't know ENOUGH. Not enough to help.â€
Kage wanted to slam his shield against Chokho, to force her to answer who was talking. How was she hearing about it. From whom? Who was this person working behind Chokho in the shadows? He trusted Chokho but he couldn’t trust this other person. Not when Roen was in danger. Not when hers were in danger. No… He couldn’t trust who might be making Chokho their puppet. But how… Roen gave Kage a glance, looking at the very least like she had been the one he had slammed a shield against and stunned.
“Who…?†Roen questioned.
Kage shook his head. He never spoke of it, knowing how sensitive it may be. “I never… I never spoke of it.†Kage got up to pace. Back, and forth, back and forth. Kage walked back and forth trying to make heads or tails of it all
Chokho nodded to Kage saying, “If you're all so easily rattled, you need this plugged.â€
Kage was stumped. Chokho was right. Whoever was talking… whoever this person or group was… Something needed to be stopped. How did Chokho know??
“This..." Kage nodded his head. "Cho... I can't... I can only send Natalie letters by moogle mail."
Chokho shook her head clarifying, “I was only looking for Natalie because I didn't think I'd get a chance to speak to Ro directly.â€
Kage continued, "She'd broken her linkpearl the night of the ball. Lots of things happened that night..." He lifted his injured arm into the air. "This related."
Chokho shot back, “I don't care about the sultansworn and I don't care about your three-... ah... contacts, we'll call them.†Chokho pointed at Roen. “I care about YOU.â€
Kage shook his head. This wasn’t Sultansworn related no, but that was because as far as he knew Natalie had never reported any involvement in it. All anyone should have known was that there was an unexplained explosion of ceruleum at the Nanawa Mines. Kage Kiryuu looked up at Roen, worry and concern in his eyes.
Chokho continued, “Well more specifically, other parties care about you. And they have something I want, so…â€
Roen narrowed her eyes as Chokho looked like she was thinking about something. Kage was definitely trying to think about what to make of what Chokho was saying. Someone wanted info, but they didn’t tell Chokho everythin. It didn’t make sense, it was clearly not Natalie. It wasn’t Kage. The Night Blades? No, Kage was sure they would have just asked Roen. Someone had told Chokho about some of the stuff Roen was involved in, but not everything. So this person must not know everything… were they fishing for information? Someone pretending to be on Roen’s side?
Chokho proposed, “So here's what I'm proposing. Let me in. Tell me everything you know, so I can do my work alongside you instead of behind your backs... Which, I think I've proven I can do fairly well.â€
“The Sultansworn don't have as tight a hold on information as you'd think.â€
Kage Kiryuu bit his lip and looked up to Roen, it was her story to tell and who to trust. While he trusted Chokho, someone was working behind Chokho. He shook his head, "The Sultansworn don't have anything to do with it..." He looked around. "This isn't as private as I'd hoped.â€
Kage got left the table area, walking about the lobby seeing a person dressed in Brass Blades garb. He’d had a hard time with them lately. Roen Deneith pressed her lips in a tight line. "How do you I know one you work for is someone I can trust?"
“Nothing, eh?†Chokho Viqqoh smirked confidently at Roen Deneith.
Roen shook her head. "I have trusted the -wrong- people in the past." She narrowed her eyes. "I will not make that same mistake again."
Chokho took that moment to look at Roen, thinking as Roen continued, "Who is this other party?"
Kage stared at the Brass Blades. Tall and appeared to be Roegadyn under the full uniform. The Brass Blades didn’t say anything. Perhaps not paying attention?
Chokho shook her head, disagreeing with Roen, “Anonynimity is -powerful-. I can't give that up... But consider what someone would do in this situation if they WANTED to harm you... I'll give you a hint, it doesn't include selectively biting their tongue in front of another sultansworn.â€
Chokho smirked at Roen. Roen returned her gaze, steel in her grey eyes. She curled her fingers closed. She blinked at what Chokho was saying.
Chokho gave in some, “ I'll message them. See how much they're willing to revealâ€
"You already seem to know... more than I ever thought anyone would." She frowns. "What else do you wish to know?" asked Roen.
“You can tell me everything, and I can work from there... As you can guess: I've got a knack for information... and I'd LIKE to be able to use that FOR you,†Chokho answered.
Kage rubbed his face with the palm of his uninjured hand. He stared into Chokho’s face, pondering what was really going on here. Chokho was genuine, she wanted to help. But telling her everything? Kage was pretty sure she was being used but he didn’t know if he could tell her that. Roen looked down, then glanced to Kage.
Chokho started to say something and Kage bit his lip, “I should probably make clear... If you don't WANT to work alongside me... that's fine. I'm not going to blow the lid or whip out daggers or something.â€
“It's really just a matter if I'm going to be working alongside you to help you, or behind your back to help you,†she finished.
"I..." Roen swallowed, clearly hesitant. "I need to know who you are working for. You... you -are- friend of Naz."
Chokho burst out laughing, “What, you think NAZ has this sort of subtlety?â€
"No but..." Roen paused and sighed, "I need to know the other party. If I can trust them, then I can trust you." She hook her head. "There is too much at risk. I cannot... make the same mistake again."
Chokho answered, “Fair enough. I can only assume they want to stay anonymous for a reason, so.... I'll ask them, and very likely return to working on this alone.â€
Kage glanced at Roen, concern shining in his eyes.
"You say you are working for... my safety," Roen said. "Then you know who I am dealing with." She leveled her gaze on Chokho.
Chokho nodded, “Let's say I have some indication... but not the -entire- story. Yet. When I got so deep into this mess, I figured I'd come to you directly.â€
Roen blinked, canting her head. "Deep into this mess. I..." She stopped herself. "I need to think this over. Ask your employer. Then we will talk."
Chokho nodded and answered, “f they say no, should I bother coming back to you?â€
"You have to understand why we're so hesitant,†Kage stated.
“No, it's fair... It's not the -smart- play, but it's fair,†came the retort.
Roen regarded her with a cool stare. "...We should still talk." Chokho nodded in affirmation to Roen’s suggestion. Roen continued, “You know... a lot." She searched the miqo'te's eyes. "Perhaps you -can- help me."
Chokho grinned, “I know a lot, and that was based off what you DIDN'T share with me. Imagine how far I can -actually- go.â€
Roen gave Kage a glance then regarded Chokho. She really knew nothing about this woman. She narrowed her eyes pondering over what Chokho had said. Kage watched Chokho, not blinking. This entire conversation was unnerving. He didn’t like the idea of Roen having another unknown factor in her troubles.
“Anyway, I am CRAZY thirsty so I'm gonna head back to the quicksand. I'm in this mix one way or another. Whether you want to be able to keep on eye on me or not is up to you,†grinned Chokho. Roen blinked as Chokho continued, “Try and work out what double motivation THAT could possibly have.â€
Kage stopped Chokho, “Cho, I like you, but Roen's as close to family." He frowned, regarding her with a careful eye. Chokho returned his gaze as he continued, "Secrets are kept secret for a reason."
It wasn’t lost on Kage that Roen had said this very same thing to him when he learned of it all. That one long night. She had told them that some secrets… some secrets were bad. It was true, Kage knew that this type of secret could and would get every single one of them involved into trouble. Roen was already in deep. But Kage was also Sworn family. He couldn’t let Roen go like that. Not like that. But Chokho wasn’t in that same boat. She wasn’t on the same Chocobo. They were friends and Chokho liked her but… he doubted he could trust that this person she was working for was the same.
At Kage’s statement Chokho stopped and turned. “... Hey Kage, do you remember when Marrow lost her ability to communicate with everyone, and wanted to turn to sadism because of it?
Roen blinked.She remembered the name, Marrow, and pinched her brows. Kage narrowed his eyes. He knew Chokho and Marrow were close. He liked to think he was close to them but he knew they were closer.
“What? When did... When did Marrow do that? I doubt Marrow did that," shaking his head in disbelief. Chokho smiled and said, “Yeah. You're welcome for that one.â€
Kage narrowed his eyes as Chokho continued, “... Welcome because she's NOT doing it anymore ... Because I helped with-... Oh forget it.. Anway. I'll see you again one way or another. Please be safe.â€
Chokho smiled at Roen. Roen slowly nodded as she regarded Chokho. Kage bit his lip and glanced at Roen and shakes his head. "It's your secreft and your safety Roen."
Chokho left, bidding farewell as Kage returned the wave goodbye. He watched her walk away, not sure completely what to do. Roen watched her leave, a frown lingering on her face.
Kage sighed and turned, starting to make his way to the bar saying, “I think I need a drink…â€
"Evening, everyone." That was Chokho Viqqoh, a friend of Salem Nunh’s that Kage found was quite enjoyable to be around even if her jokes were bad.
“Evening,†answered Altima. She was an interesting Miqo’te. Altima sometimes put Kage on edge because of her axe but he knew she was a good one. He wished she wasn’t so adamant about sparring with him though. It was intimidating.
Another voice, one he wasn’t so familiar with rang as well. "Evening, Chokho. You wanted to speak with me about something?"
Chokho answered, "I did! You available?"
"GOOD MORNVENING" That was Marrow.
The same voice who he didn’t recognize answered, "Yeah, I am. Where would you like to meet up?"
Closing his eyes, Kage mumbled softly. "Evening..."
Chokho answered the voice, "I'm in the quickand now. That seems like a good starting point."
Altima asked, "y-you're alive kage?"
The voice answered, "Alright, I'll be over in a few."
"Perfect! Kage, you can pass word on to Nat that I need to talk to her, too.†Chokho once again.
Kage frowned at Altima’s question. He didn’t know she had heard… How did she know something had happened to him? He spoke into the pearl, "Oh. I assumed no one was on to hear my call since... only a pink female haired Miqo'te answered it." He paused, thinking about what to tell Chokho.
"Natalie is currently indisposed. You won't see her for awhile," Kage answered.
Chokho asked, "How long is a while?"
"I apologize, I didn't have my linkpearl with me..." came from Altima.
Kage answered, "A few days at the very least. It’s ok Altima. I live.â€
Chokho asked, "Anything to do with ceruleum?"
Kage paused. "Sorry Chokho, I'm not at liberty to answer."
Marrow wanted to know, "...is she alright?"
"Right, well I'm going to be up to my eyeballs in the stuff, so you go ahead and let her - or any other concerned Sultansworn know," said Chokho.
"I'm currently on medical leave, and Natalie is on leave as well."
"I'll bring it up with Roen directly, then."
"But I'll meet with you too. Roen's got things she needs to deal with."
"I am ENTIRELY aware of what Roen has to deal with."
At this Kage gave a pause and narrowed his eyes. What exactly was Chokho up to? What did she know? He needed to find out. "I won't speak of it in the public but I'm going to ask you directly how you are."
"We've all got a case of tight lips, it seems."
Naz said over the linkshell, "I just hate talking on this thing."
Kage walked around, looking for Chokho who had said she was in the area of the Quicksand. "Cho, I've been walking around Quicksand. Where are you."
"...I'm so confused...why does all this pimmcred happen when I'm not around..." said Marrow.
Chokho answered, "I'll be along in a bit. I've got another important conversation on my plate."
Kage sighed. The Quicksand was bustling with people, drinking and conversing. His usual spot atop of the rail was crowded with people milling about there. Close to the entrance, the railing was clear of people so Kage perched on top, waiting for Chokho to arrive.
Chokho Viqqoh grinned tauntingly at Kage, “Hey buddy.â€
“Cho." Kage gave the female Miqo’te a nod.
Unseen by Kage whose back was turned to the entrance, Roen Deneith walked into the Quicksand, her grey eyes scanning the patrons in it.
Chokho asked Kage, “How you feeling?†before her eyes caught sight of Roen. She smiled at Roen. Roen herself spotted the small Lalafellin form of Kage, and her eyes narrowed at the sight of him.
Chokho waved to someone behind Kage and said, “Ro right? From the ball?â€
‘Ro?’ Kage thought. Then he realized who it might be but hoped it wasn’t. He knew she would not like what she saw… and heard. Especially if Natalie did tell her to check up on him… He looked around. He winced at the sight of Roen, knowing that he was most likely in some trouble. He was unable to hide the fact that his arm was in a sling and the bandages wrapped around his bruised head.
Roen blinked at Chokho’s question. "Oh. Yes. Um... Cho...?"
"Roen..." Kage mumbled as Chokho nodded to Roen. Roen glanced between Kage and Chokho both.
Chokho answered, “Cho. Good to see you well.â€
Kage had already known that the Quicksand was not the venue in which he wanted to speak with Chokho, but he knew that linkshells were not the most private channels of communication. He hadn’t wanted to ask Chokho to meet him somewhere he thought would give them privacy. He suggested, "Perhaps we can take this somewhere privately... Roen, Cho seemed to have some information that worried me... about what you're dealing with."
Roen nodded to Chokho. "How is Naz...?" She asked politely, although her eyes wandered back to Kage and his... injuries. Chokho smiled at Roen before Roen blinked at Kage’s remark.
"What... -I- am dealing with?" She asked. She gave Kage a pointed look at his injury, emphasis on Kage.
Chokho remarked, “HE'LL be fine. Kage has a good head on his shoulders.†She pointed her next question to Roen, “How about you?â€
Kage winced and murmured at Roen’s pointed glance, "You've got a lot to deal with...But we should head somewhere private. I don't think this should be out in the public."
Chokho nodded in response to Kage’s suggestion. Roen glanced to them both, wondering how and when this became about her. "Um. Alright. Aye, let us talk somewhere more private..."
Kage walked closer to Roen first, cupping a side of his mouth and whispered, “We should head to the airship bar.†He blinked before turning to face Chokho once more. He whispered the same words that he had given to Roen, “We should head to the airship bar.â€
Kage turned and looked around, checking the patrons before he started to exit the Quicksand. Looking behind him, he could see Chokho and Roen following behind him. His eyes scanned around them, trying to make sure it was safe. From behind him he could hear Chokho ask Roen, “So how ya been?†Chokho grinned at Roen as Roen gave both Kage and Chokho an odd look while she followed them.
Having made their way to the tables situated in the airship docking area, Kage worried his lip as they stopped. Chokho grinned tauntingly at Roen while Roen narrowed her eyes. It was an expectant look at them both and Kage worked hard not to fidget.
Roen gestured to one of the chairs. "You should sit Kage. You are hurt." She didn’t leave room for argument. Kage bit his lip and nodded, taking a seat in one of the chairs.
“Not like you to get hurt so bad, Kage. Sultansworn must be keeping dangerous enemies, these days,†said Chokho.
Roen gave him a stern look. She was about to say something... then gave Chokho a look herself.
Kage knew Roen would want to talk to him about he was hurt. Natalie did say she had sent Roen a letter after all. But he was worried about what Chokho may or may not know about Roen. How did she know? What did she know?
"Let's not talk about that.. Cho you mentioned something you thought the Sultansworn? Ceruleum? And something about knowing what Roen has to deal with?" He frowned.
Roen blinked, there was an odd expression before she turned back to Kage. "Wait Kage, how did you- she paused again and raised her brows.
Chokho retorted, “You don't hide a ceruleum explosion.â€
Kage narrowed his eyes. How did Chokho know anything about their involvement in it. The only thing people should know was that there was an explosion of ceruleum at the Nanawa mines. As far as he knew, Natalie never reported it or her involvement in it.
Trying to fish for information Kage let loose, “We never reported that..."
Chokho scoffed, “It's an EXPLOSION. They EXPLODE.†She failed to understand Kage, throwing her hands up into the air a little.
Roen said, "What..? Oh. Um. Right." She gave Kage a sidelong glance. "Aye, I heard about that... explosion..." She cleared her throat. It was clear that Roen was such a terrible liar.
Kage wanted to try to deflect the situation and asked, "So how do you know who's involved?"
Roen asked, "What do you know about that?" She pressed her lips together.
Chokho just replied, “I should hope so. I imagine you know a thing or two about Hroch, Shae, and the rest too.
At Chokho’s remark, Roen coughed very loudly. "Um... what??
Based on Roen’s reaction, he knew that those named must have been involved somehow. Were one or all of them at the mines? Was one of them the old man who was gravely injured falling off the platform? Kage couldn’t hide his reaction to Roen, widening his eyes.Chokho shrugged, not able to understand him.
“Who?†Kage asked. Who where they? Roen stared with wide eyes at Chokho. Kage continued, “I don’t know these names…†He glanced at Roen, hoping to find some hint. She only continued to just stare at Chokho, mouth agape.
“You're not a secret-keeping organization,†commented Chokho. What did she know? How did she know of anything?
"How do you know these names?" Roen asked, directing Chokho with a strange look.
Kage shook his head. He knew that these people must be involved but he had no idea. "No... I actually don't know these names." He looks around. "But yes, an explosion I do know."
Chokho sighed and asked, “ ...Does everyone really think I just sit around the Quicksand all day for NO good reason?†She looked stumped.
"But they..." Roen continued to stare. Then slowly her eyes narrowed. "Cho. Why are you telling me this?"
Chokho answered, “Because there are people who are concerned for you. And if I found out considering I'm NOT a part of your games imagine who else is going to find out.â€
Kage’s heart dropped. It felt like his head was being pounded into the floor again. Who was talking? Natalie wasn’t. He wasn’t. The people from the… Night Blades? Surely not. If they were in the know, they would not go about like this, Kage was sure of it. Who was this person? Who are these people?
Roen paled a little. "How much... do you know?"
Chokho shook her head, disagreeing with Roen. She said, “The fact that I've heard talk is bad enough. Let's not make that chatter any louder, alright?â€
Kage frowned. Just who was talking? The people that Roen has met before? Garleans? The Rose? Who? He turned to Roen. "Roen, I wanted to talk to Chokho because she said something like this over the linkshell. I wanted to see what it was about."
Kage didn’t know what to say. This… Who was talking and who was Chokho talking about it with?
Roen shook her head, still a look of disbelief lingering on her face. Chokho continued to speak. “Information has ALWAYS been my business. But I'm not in in for the coin... I, and other's choosing to remain nameless, are concerned for your well being.â€
Roen trained her gaze onto Chokho. "You still have not said what you want." Her voice lowered.
Grinning tauntingly, Chokho answered simply. “You. Safe.â€
Kage’s voice almost turned with a hint of… something. "Cho, it's very important that you please let us know everything that deals with Roen at least." His voice was low as his injured arm shook. "I don't want to see her hurt or get hurt."
Chokho stated, “The hedonist who only wants gold is as much a lie as my incompotence.â€
Roen blinked. "And... there is -another- that knows as you do?"
Chokho nodded at Roen’s question, answering, “Ah ah, at LEAST one other. I know this when I shouldn't... but the trouble is I don't know ENOUGH. Not enough to help.â€
Kage wanted to slam his shield against Chokho, to force her to answer who was talking. How was she hearing about it. From whom? Who was this person working behind Chokho in the shadows? He trusted Chokho but he couldn’t trust this other person. Not when Roen was in danger. Not when hers were in danger. No… He couldn’t trust who might be making Chokho their puppet. But how… Roen gave Kage a glance, looking at the very least like she had been the one he had slammed a shield against and stunned.
“Who…?†Roen questioned.
Kage shook his head. He never spoke of it, knowing how sensitive it may be. “I never… I never spoke of it.†Kage got up to pace. Back, and forth, back and forth. Kage walked back and forth trying to make heads or tails of it all
Chokho nodded to Kage saying, “If you're all so easily rattled, you need this plugged.â€
Kage was stumped. Chokho was right. Whoever was talking… whoever this person or group was… Something needed to be stopped. How did Chokho know??
“This..." Kage nodded his head. "Cho... I can't... I can only send Natalie letters by moogle mail."
Chokho shook her head clarifying, “I was only looking for Natalie because I didn't think I'd get a chance to speak to Ro directly.â€
Kage continued, "She'd broken her linkpearl the night of the ball. Lots of things happened that night..." He lifted his injured arm into the air. "This related."
Chokho shot back, “I don't care about the sultansworn and I don't care about your three-... ah... contacts, we'll call them.†Chokho pointed at Roen. “I care about YOU.â€
Kage shook his head. This wasn’t Sultansworn related no, but that was because as far as he knew Natalie had never reported any involvement in it. All anyone should have known was that there was an unexplained explosion of ceruleum at the Nanawa Mines. Kage Kiryuu looked up at Roen, worry and concern in his eyes.
Chokho continued, “Well more specifically, other parties care about you. And they have something I want, so…â€
Roen narrowed her eyes as Chokho looked like she was thinking about something. Kage was definitely trying to think about what to make of what Chokho was saying. Someone wanted info, but they didn’t tell Chokho everythin. It didn’t make sense, it was clearly not Natalie. It wasn’t Kage. The Night Blades? No, Kage was sure they would have just asked Roen. Someone had told Chokho about some of the stuff Roen was involved in, but not everything. So this person must not know everything… were they fishing for information? Someone pretending to be on Roen’s side?
Chokho proposed, “So here's what I'm proposing. Let me in. Tell me everything you know, so I can do my work alongside you instead of behind your backs... Which, I think I've proven I can do fairly well.â€
“The Sultansworn don't have as tight a hold on information as you'd think.â€
Kage Kiryuu bit his lip and looked up to Roen, it was her story to tell and who to trust. While he trusted Chokho, someone was working behind Chokho. He shook his head, "The Sultansworn don't have anything to do with it..." He looked around. "This isn't as private as I'd hoped.â€
Kage got left the table area, walking about the lobby seeing a person dressed in Brass Blades garb. He’d had a hard time with them lately. Roen Deneith pressed her lips in a tight line. "How do you I know one you work for is someone I can trust?"
“Nothing, eh?†Chokho Viqqoh smirked confidently at Roen Deneith.
Roen shook her head. "I have trusted the -wrong- people in the past." She narrowed her eyes. "I will not make that same mistake again."
Chokho took that moment to look at Roen, thinking as Roen continued, "Who is this other party?"
Kage stared at the Brass Blades. Tall and appeared to be Roegadyn under the full uniform. The Brass Blades didn’t say anything. Perhaps not paying attention?
Chokho shook her head, disagreeing with Roen, “Anonynimity is -powerful-. I can't give that up... But consider what someone would do in this situation if they WANTED to harm you... I'll give you a hint, it doesn't include selectively biting their tongue in front of another sultansworn.â€
Chokho smirked at Roen. Roen returned her gaze, steel in her grey eyes. She curled her fingers closed. She blinked at what Chokho was saying.
Chokho gave in some, “ I'll message them. See how much they're willing to revealâ€
"You already seem to know... more than I ever thought anyone would." She frowns. "What else do you wish to know?" asked Roen.
“You can tell me everything, and I can work from there... As you can guess: I've got a knack for information... and I'd LIKE to be able to use that FOR you,†Chokho answered.
Kage rubbed his face with the palm of his uninjured hand. He stared into Chokho’s face, pondering what was really going on here. Chokho was genuine, she wanted to help. But telling her everything? Kage was pretty sure she was being used but he didn’t know if he could tell her that. Roen looked down, then glanced to Kage.
Chokho started to say something and Kage bit his lip, “I should probably make clear... If you don't WANT to work alongside me... that's fine. I'm not going to blow the lid or whip out daggers or something.â€
“It's really just a matter if I'm going to be working alongside you to help you, or behind your back to help you,†she finished.
"I..." Roen swallowed, clearly hesitant. "I need to know who you are working for. You... you -are- friend of Naz."
Chokho burst out laughing, “What, you think NAZ has this sort of subtlety?â€
"No but..." Roen paused and sighed, "I need to know the other party. If I can trust them, then I can trust you." She hook her head. "There is too much at risk. I cannot... make the same mistake again."
Chokho answered, “Fair enough. I can only assume they want to stay anonymous for a reason, so.... I'll ask them, and very likely return to working on this alone.â€
Kage glanced at Roen, concern shining in his eyes.
"You say you are working for... my safety," Roen said. "Then you know who I am dealing with." She leveled her gaze on Chokho.
Chokho nodded, “Let's say I have some indication... but not the -entire- story. Yet. When I got so deep into this mess, I figured I'd come to you directly.â€
Roen blinked, canting her head. "Deep into this mess. I..." She stopped herself. "I need to think this over. Ask your employer. Then we will talk."
Chokho nodded and answered, “f they say no, should I bother coming back to you?â€
"You have to understand why we're so hesitant,†Kage stated.
“No, it's fair... It's not the -smart- play, but it's fair,†came the retort.
Roen regarded her with a cool stare. "...We should still talk." Chokho nodded in affirmation to Roen’s suggestion. Roen continued, “You know... a lot." She searched the miqo'te's eyes. "Perhaps you -can- help me."
Chokho grinned, “I know a lot, and that was based off what you DIDN'T share with me. Imagine how far I can -actually- go.â€
Roen gave Kage a glance then regarded Chokho. She really knew nothing about this woman. She narrowed her eyes pondering over what Chokho had said. Kage watched Chokho, not blinking. This entire conversation was unnerving. He didn’t like the idea of Roen having another unknown factor in her troubles.
“Anyway, I am CRAZY thirsty so I'm gonna head back to the quicksand. I'm in this mix one way or another. Whether you want to be able to keep on eye on me or not is up to you,†grinned Chokho. Roen blinked as Chokho continued, “Try and work out what double motivation THAT could possibly have.â€
Kage stopped Chokho, “Cho, I like you, but Roen's as close to family." He frowned, regarding her with a careful eye. Chokho returned his gaze as he continued, "Secrets are kept secret for a reason."
It wasn’t lost on Kage that Roen had said this very same thing to him when he learned of it all. That one long night. She had told them that some secrets… some secrets were bad. It was true, Kage knew that this type of secret could and would get every single one of them involved into trouble. Roen was already in deep. But Kage was also Sworn family. He couldn’t let Roen go like that. Not like that. But Chokho wasn’t in that same boat. She wasn’t on the same Chocobo. They were friends and Chokho liked her but… he doubted he could trust that this person she was working for was the same.
At Kage’s statement Chokho stopped and turned. “... Hey Kage, do you remember when Marrow lost her ability to communicate with everyone, and wanted to turn to sadism because of it?
Roen blinked.She remembered the name, Marrow, and pinched her brows. Kage narrowed his eyes. He knew Chokho and Marrow were close. He liked to think he was close to them but he knew they were closer.
“What? When did... When did Marrow do that? I doubt Marrow did that," shaking his head in disbelief. Chokho smiled and said, “Yeah. You're welcome for that one.â€
Kage narrowed his eyes as Chokho continued, “... Welcome because she's NOT doing it anymore ... Because I helped with-... Oh forget it.. Anway. I'll see you again one way or another. Please be safe.â€
Chokho smiled at Roen. Roen slowly nodded as she regarded Chokho. Kage bit his lip and glanced at Roen and shakes his head. "It's your secreft and your safety Roen."
Chokho left, bidding farewell as Kage returned the wave goodbye. He watched her walk away, not sure completely what to do. Roen watched her leave, a frown lingering on her face.
Kage sighed and turned, starting to make his way to the bar saying, “I think I need a drink…â€
