Lair of the Phoenix Pirates [Request]

[Renaise]

"Gah, you people and your talk of war. War is never a solution; it is an aggravation." Doc shook his head and grinned "The boy was right... again... I must look into that." Doc placed several vials back into his bag. "So... One-eye? Who is this One-eye character? He's not a Samurai by any chance? I've heard stories..."

[GaelicWarlord]

Valthizar somehow managed to get ahold of a random apple, its whereabouts unknown, and takes a big chunk out of it, chewing loudly and talking with his mouth full. "One-Eye'shome big shhot from Ala Mihgo.... He, like most of their lot, came into this town looking for freelance work, and sold their swords to any cause that gott'im a wee bit o' gil." He managed to swallow what was in his mouth before continuing. "I'm sure yer' familiar with the tale of the invasion of Ala Mihgo, aye?... well anyway..." He takes another bite out of the apple. "He'sh a bit tougher than your average highlander.... and they're all pretty tough albeit, rarely do you ever run into one. He's been around for about since the fall of the old city... and slowly, he's climbed, killed, bribed, slaughtered, bought, stolen, his way to the very top of the food chain 'ere in Limsa. At first, you can expect, a good lot of the other syndicates and locals tried to resist 'im. Most don't nowadays simply because... well... he's killed most o' tha shit-stirrers that were about. Everyone else is scared... and there are those of us... who stay out of his shadow, by remaining in other shadows." He raised a brow about the 'friend' she mentioned. "Friend, eh?... sounds like a good enough lead ta' me... reasonable to think though, if this fella and One-Eye are both from Migho... likely it wasn't no random killin'... but uh... I may jus' be statin' the obvious 'ere."

 

He slaps the big rogaedyn on the shoulders with a grin. "But like ya' all've told me a'fore... best ta' leave the thinkin' bit to yuns."

[Camille]

"That has to be them... There's no other Brigantine near the port." Ryelle cupped her hands around her eyes and pressed them to the glass, not bothering to wait for the spyglass. She chewed her lip, narrowing he eyes as she stared at the double masted ship which was slowly sailing into port. She glanced at the expanse between the dock and their hideout as she leaned away from the glass. I've no idea how to get from here to there... It'd be insane to try to find my way alone in the dark. With the highlander here and the extra guards about Reinard will be reluctant to go until it's much later or possibly tomorrow.

 

She gave the maze of streets another look over and a tiny grin crept over her face. She ruffled her hair in a frustrated manner, letting it cascade around her face, then blinked a few times rapidly. Frowning faintly at her reflection, she chewed her lower lip a little harder till it turned a bright red. She let her shoulders weigh in a worried manner and then turned to Felix. Reaching out, she cupped one of his hands between hers and pulled him close.

 

"Felix, I need to get to the docks to greet a specific ship. It will anchor shortly and it's very important that I be there, but I've no idea how to reach it on my own. It's so dark out and I know I'd get hopelessly lost or worse," Ryelle said softly. "Would you please guide me there, perhaps with another of the crew for a safe escort?" She looked at him hopefully, her wide blue eyes sparkling.

[Tyriont]

Felix blushed as he felt Ryelle's eyes on him, the youth unsure of how to relax. She had his hand clasped tightly and he was fighting the conflicting urges to pull away or stay exactly where he was. "I...erm...that is to say...I know the way, that I do, but..." Croix sighed, rolling his eyes at the poor flustered boy.

 

"It's fine, Felix. Regardless of how trustworthy Ryelle seems, I'd rather not have her leave unescorted regardless. Take Tera with you as well, a couple of innocent-looking Hyur like the two of you are least likely to attract attention. Should you happen across any of the other four while you're out, fill them in on what's going on up here. The Captain and Kira are likely still out on their task...but Salaah and Ro'an are likely down by the docks somewhere arranging for the repairs to the Flame." He moved over to a box by the wall and rummaged around inside it, eventually removing a small cylindrical object and passing it to Terajima. "Tera, take this. If you run into any of One-Eye's men that you can't handle, you know what to do." Terajima took the tube and shoved it into her belt-pouch.

 

"Aye, Croix. Don't worry, we'll see her safe. Us too." She had moved over to the weapon racks and had removed two serrated daggers which she twirled expertly in her hands before thrusting them into their corresponding belt-loops. She unlocked the door and slipped outside, indicating for Felix and Ryelle to follow. Nearby, Wandering Lion was laughing uproariously as he was regaling anyone who would listen with tales of the legendary "One-Eyed Samurai", inspired by Doc.

 

"An' tha's when e' gave t'bird t'whole thing!" he recited with a grin. "Ain't 'eard them stories in many's a year, mate. When we was still jus' startin' out, me an' Ty we 'eard 'em an' made sure ta spread 'em. Ty, 'e was convinced some bloke we knew were the Samurai, bu' 'e weren't e'er able t'prove it." Beside him, Chirichi had obtained a small stick and was poking one of the unharmed parts of the patient to ensure he wasn't going to leap up at him.

[Camille]

"Thank you, Mister Reinard." Ryelle nodded and follow Tera out. The narrow passage was nearly pitch black, so she hurried to keep up with the other woman. The dark maze of streets was quiet, though the faint sound of festivities of some kinda could be heard coming from near the remains of the Bismarck. The silence of her escort was nearly stifling and the trio seemed to have the street to themselves, so she glanced back at Felix with curiosity.

 

"What happened to your ship?"

 

~~~~~

 

The ship rocked gently as is was tied to the dock and the gangplank was lowered. A pale hand pushed a heavy hood away from the face of a young woman. Her face was as pale as her hand, though color returned to her cheeks as she carefully came down the gangplank. Her heavy black cloak swirled around her as she descended uneasily. The cloak was cover in a tiny embroidered pattern of a silver gem crossed by a key and sword. Her blouse was embroidered with the same pattern around the hem and cuffs of her sleeves and the jet buttons which ran up it's length were emblazoned as well. Even her boots were engraved, leaving only her grey leggins unadorned by the crest. A raspberry colored curl fell into her eyes and she brushed it back into place as she reached the dock.

 

The pair of guards trailing her stopped at her side and a young boy in a uniform emblazoned with the same crest of the woman's cloak ran past to help unload bags. A few other passengers disembarked behind her. The young woman murmured pleasantries and nodded to a number of them, apologizing for being so unsocial while aboard. Someone could be heard arguing with one of the baggage boys. She turned to look and smiled at the familiar face with a small wave.

[Kylin]

The ship's steward, a male hyur dressed to impress, smiled and gave well wishes to each noble as he or she disembarked the massive ship. Several of the nobles wasted no time in heading toward wherever they were residing for the duration of their stay. Several others lingered behind to ensure that their precious luggage would be delivered without any delay.

 

"Good eve to you Lord Mavanix," the steward said with his usual smile to the next noble exiting the luxury ship. "We hope you enjoyed the journey and look forward to your future patronage."

 

The noble, a hyur man in his mid to late forties, smiled faintly back to the steward. "A very pleasant trip indeed. Thank you." The man was well dressed as were most of those disembarking the ship. It didn't take a genius to discern who was a noble and who was simply hired help. The man's white and red garments seemed to compliment his light colored hair and neatly groomed beard. He seemed in rather decent shape for a man of his age and status, though that was difficult to discern based on his semi-loose garments. A rather large ruby ring rested upon one of his left fingers, quite dazzling even under a night's sky. He stroked his chin, displaying the ring for just about anyone to see as if inviting thieves to try making a grab for it.

 

Another figure exited the ship behind him, this one a miqo'te. Her face was concealed by a golden mask while the rest of her body was clad in black leather. A sheathed dagger rested on both her right and left hip. She remained a respectable distance from the noble, but anyone could tell that she was indeed part of his entourage--a bodyguard most likely.

 

The noble took a few steps toward where the ship's luggage was being unloaded. After a moment of watching, the hyur barked out toward the baggage boy. "Be careful with that! The last thing I need is to have my things damaged by the water. Incompetent little..." His last words were mumbled under his breath. The baggage boy seemed extremely agitated, clearly sick of dealing with demanding nobles already.

 

The man turned to his masked miqo'te escort and rolled his eyes. "I want to go straight to our rooms. This area reeks of scavengers." A female hyur's waving suddenly caught the man's attention. A look of surprise crossed his face, followed by a warm smile. The man strode toward the woman. The miqo'te followed, still remaining a few paces back.

 

"Lady Elysia? What an honor to see you here. You must have been below the deck the entire time for me to not have seen you. What brings you all this way?"

[Camille]

"Lord Mavanix, it's a pleasure to see you! I did spend the trip below deck. I wasn't feeling very well and I'm a terrible sailor. I'm sorry to have missed enjoying your company during the trip." Elysia dipped an elegant curtsy and held out her hand, smiling brightly. "I'm here to meet Miss Ryelle, one of the agents from the Lathals. She's commissioning a ship to take us further North in a few days. Are you here for another museum acquisition? All of Ul'dah has been looking forward to the next exhibiton opening."

[Kylin]

Cartius smiled, taking Elysia's extended hand gently and kissing it out of noble-like courtesy. "That is correct. An exquisite crystalline statue was dug out of the sea recently. The auction is tomorrow and I am hoping I can win the bid. I think it would look quite marvelous at the museum's entrance."

 

The luggage boy finally started making his way toward Cartius, clearly struggling a bit with the excessive load. As if sensing him approaching, the masked miqo'te didn't even look back as she stretched out her arm and blocked the boy's advance. The boy, somewhat startled, didn't know how to react. The miqo'te tilted her head slightly toward the boy and whispered softly. "He's in a conversation. It would be rude to interrupt. You will wait until he is finished."

 

The boy became agitated for a moment but quickly calmed himself and decided it would be best to comply, taking note of the daggers sheathed on each side of the miqo'te's belt.

 

"Oh, where are my manners?" Cartius frowned and put a comforting hand on Elysia's shoulder. "I don't think I've ever given proper condolences over the loss of Sir Van'Celle. I do hope time has made his untimely demise easier for you to deal with. And your mother...she must have been especially devastated."

 

His last words seemed uttered in the tone of near mockery, as if the death of Elysia's former husband was a twisted form of karmic justice.

[Camille]

"I'm certain you'll win and I look forward to seeing it after it's installation." Elysia smiled somewhat sadly as his words. "Thank you for your condolences. It was an incredibly unfortunate accident and he is still greatly missed. Yes, my mother was extremely distressed..." She flushed brightly. "I hate to bore you with family politics, especially as I know you're eager to rest after such a long trip." She tucked anther stray curl back behind her ear once more.

 

"Though, I am eager to catch up before Miss Ryelle arrives. How is Castiel? I haven't had a chance to see him since he started at the public academy. And when is your auction tomorrow? I would love to have an early peek at the statue if possible and to hear more about it."

 

One of her escorts watched the exchange between the miqo'te and the boy, obviously wary of the masked woman. The other glanced around, tracking the other occupants of the port with his eyes and making sure none looked at the pair of nobles with too much interest.

[Kylin]

Cartius smiled, obviously excited over the fact that Elysia had asked about his son. "Castiel is quite well. In fact, I'm prepping him for a rather significant project. I'm confident he'll be able to get the results I seek. He's become quite ambitious while maintaining his boyish charms. You two should really get together some time once you return to Ul'dah. It's been oh so long. But in the meantime, I do hope you stop by the auction tomorrow. It'll be starting around noon."

 

The Mavanix patriarch glanced around momentarily, noticing Elysia's entourage for the first time. "You said you were meeting Lady Ryelle? What could possibly be keeping her? Surely she was aware of when the ship would arrive. I do hope she wasn't attacked by pirates or some other brigand. This city is just seething with vigilantes."

 

The luggage boy sighed dejectedly. He was starting to clearly get annoyed with the wait, secretly furious over the fact that these nobles saw their time as more valuable than his. But he remained quiet still. After all, he didn't really have much of a choice.

[Renaise]

An Elezen, known by some as Ghost Arrow stood on top of the roof of a nearby building close to the dock, he was wearing darkened leather armour complete with a hood pulled up over his head. The top half of his face was obscured by a black mask. âIâm not sure about this one... just seems like another stuffy noble to me, and believe me; Iâve met a fair few of them.â The man spoke into some kind of device. âAre you sure?â Ghost Arrow looked back across the dock again. âWell Iâll make sure she gets it, and donât worry...â Ghost Arrow crossed his fingers behind his back. âIâll be sure itâs nothing dramatic.â

[Camille]

"I'd be delighted to stop by the auction and I would love to see Castiel when I return to Ul'dah. Ryelle's probably on her way right now. She never gets into trouble. She's here to make sure I don't get into any actually." She looked around the port in a delighted awe, "I've never been to Limsa Lominsa before. Is it really crawling in brigands and run by a pirate?" She paused and blushed faintly.

 

"I'm so sorry, I've really delayed you. I'm sure Miss Ryelle will arrive soon. I can wait here alone if it's an inconvenience. Or perhaps my escort could take your luggage to your rooms for you? I'm sure the young man has quite alot to do and a thief would have to be completely mad to assault anyone in the company of Lord Mavanix." Elysia smiled warmly at the tired baggage boy standing uncomfortably beside the masked miqo'te.

[Kylin]

"Your first trip here? Well, you're not missing much. The place is crawling with pirates. I suggest you finish your business as quickly as possible and leave, lest some scavenger try to swoop in on you." Cartius glanced back at the baggage boy, noticing him for the first time due to Elysia's comment.

 

"It would be rude of me to leave you before your escort has arrived,â the noble stated matter-of-factly before turning back to Elysia. "I'm sure Castiel would never let me hear the end of it either." Turning back to the boy and the masked miqo'te, Cartius nodded to his bodyguard. "Give the boy the address and let him deliver my things. Though let me warn you now, boy. If anything, anything at all, should come up missing...there will be dire consequences."

 

"...Yessir," the boy said through clenched teeth before turning back to the masked miqo'te, awaiting further instructions.

 

"Now that we have that issue out of the way," Cartius said with a smile as he turned back to Elysia. "We really must find this escort of yours. You would think there would be no reason for delay at this time of night unless something troubling has happened."

 

The luggage boy passed the two nobles, having received the address from the masked miqo'te. When he knew Cartius wasn't looking, the boy gave a slightly dirty look and continued away from the docks. Meanwhile, the masked miqo'te quickly turned her head toward the roof of a building, having thought she had seen something move. Seeing nothing, she returned to scoping out the rest of the area.

[Tyriont]

Terajima lead the way through twisting back alleys, making sure to take several detours that while increasing the length of their journey would hopefully greatly reduce the chance that Ryelle would be able to locate the hideout again without assistance. They moved in single file with Felix bringing up the rear, a decision Terajima was quick to regret given the youth's tendency to trip over objects lying in his path while his gaze was fixed pointedly upon Ryelle's rear. She had given up after admonishing him for the third time and decided to treat the issue as adding to confusing the woman as to the directions. If nothing else he had at least kept her talking, explaining that the Flame had not been seriously damaged but due to traversing storms was in need of some routine maintenance to ensure it continued to sail smoothly. He had also babbled on about no end of inconsequential trivia, but fortunately was intelligent enough not to reveal anything that would cause problems for the crew. Eventually they came out into a large, open area which was well lit by lamps as well as the bright moonlight - the docks. The area was filled with the usual bustle, despite the relatively late hour. Looking around, she managed to pick out a familiar looking Miqo'te haggling with a group of tradesmen and made a mental note of the location. Nothing else struck her as particularly important - no sign of the Captain, which was to be expected. Dockhands carefully unloading cargo from ships, a tall man in a hooded cloak was conducting dealings in a dark alleyway, exchanging a pouch of gil for some strange looking liquid in vials. A sailor had obviously just returned from a long voyage given the rather enthusiastic greeting he was cirrently recieving from what Terajima assumed was his sweetheart. Leading the way forwards, she moved up to a viewing area and indicated the landing bays to Ryelle.

 

"So which is the one you're after, eh?" she asked, leaning against a railing lazily.

[Camille]

"The Sapphire Rose. It's the brigantine in the center." Ryelle started towards it, getting halfway down the dock with the bored looking Tera and the now quiet Felix before stopping suddenly. "Damn, what is Lord Mavanix doing here? Nald'thal's mercy, I'm going to be sold for a gladiator for this..." She spun to look over the pair of pirates, chewing on her knuckle. Tera's disinterested manner could be almost be construed as the hidden watchfulness of a well trained bodyguard. Felix's charming stumble and inability to keep his veiw from turning to her figure was indisguisable.

 

Ryelle sighed, drawing her stiletti from her boots, and tucked them into his belt. She then slipped off her gloves and removed the rings from her index fingers, slipping them onto the startled boy's pinkies. She looked over him again and then brushed his hair forward to hang dramatically over one eye. Leaning back, she gave a small nod of approval before tugging down her sleeves and smoothing her waistcoat. She put her cool smile of control back into place and continued down the dock. Elysia spotted her immediately, her smile widening as she waved enthusiastically to her tardy escort.

 

"Ryelle! We were worried something had happened to you!" The younger woman beamed and took Cartius's hand, turning him gently. "This is Lord Mavanix and his entourage. You might remember seeing him at some of his museum exhibit openings. Lord Mavanix, this is Miss Ryelle."

 

Ryelle curtsied to the pair of nobles and then swept her arm back to the pair behind her. "My Lady, may I present Miss Terajima and Mister Felix of the Phoenix -ahem- Trade group. Felix and Terajima, this is Countess Elysia Van'Celle and Lord Cartius Mavanix." She cleared her throat softly and smiled. "Of course I recognized Lord Mavanix, my Lady. He's one of the most famous treasure collectors in the world."

 

"It's a pleasure to meet you both!" Elysia smiled warmly at the two hyur behind Ryelle and held out her hand.

[Kylin]

Cartius turned his gaze to the new arrivals, slight intrigue in his eyes. He scanned Ryelle first with an analytical gaze before setting his sights on the two others accompanying her. A look of slight annoyance crossed his face. "The Phoenix Trade group you say? I have not heard of them. What exactly do they deal with? Having kept Lady Elysia waiting like this, I would hope that the business was well worth it."

 

The masked miqo'te's gaze fell upon Felix, though it was impossible to discern what emotions were being expressed under the golden mask. She simply stared straight toward him, her arms crossed and her tail shifting to and fro casually.

[Camille]

"I'm incredibly sorry for making my Lady and Lord Mavanix wait. The Phoenix Trade group deals in general goods redistribution. They're a small company, just getting their feet wet within the market, but they do have a ship headed North soon. I'm still negotiating with the owners about passage for my Lady and myself as well as possibly connecting them to the consortium for my Lady. Please forgive my poor time management and the inconvenience it created, Lord Mavanix." Ryelle bowed her head in apology. Elysia smile softly, resting her other hand on Cartuis's arm.

 

"Thank you, Ryelle. The delay was rather fortuitous, as it gave me a chance to see Lord Cartius. Don't you agree, my Lord?"

[Tyriont]

Terajima shook Elysia's hand offered hand and gave an exaggerated, mocking curtsey to Cartius, smiling sweetly. She had heard of him, of course. Everyone had in their line of work, their ships were considered quite the lucrative targets although too well protected to be worth the trouble for any but the largest or most foolhardy crews. She decided to have a little fun.

 

"Pray forgive our detainment of your vassal, my Lady. Alas, there was quite the disturbance in the city tonight...brigands at the Bismarck, don't you know. Such a shame. We felt it our solemn duty to ensure that Miss Ryelle did not get caught up in such unpleasantness. As she has explained, we operate in...goods redistribution. We see to it that cargo reaches the correct destination." Not technically a lie. It just so happened that their view of the correct destination differed from the owner's. She turned her attention to Cartius. "Might I be so bold as to enquire as to what brings the great Lord Mavanix to our humble city?" Next to her, Felix was standing stock-still trying to mask the look of sheer terror that was crossing his face. He wanted nothing more than to leave this situation, but Terajima's wicked streak had kicked in again. He silently wished for a distraction, but none came to his rescue.

 

~~~~~~

 

Croix stared thoughtfully out of the window of the pirate's lair. The man who had killed One-Eye's brother seemed to be in less pain but was still nowhere near the point where he could be reasonably questioned. Wandering Lion had launched into a long, bawdy song about the exploits of the One-Eyed Samurai and Croix was thoroughly convinced that he was making it up as he went along by this point. He wished that more of the crew would return...they were now down six, including two of their strongest fighters. Wandering Lion's strength would surely be enough to restrain the man physically when he awoke...it was the potential for magical assaults that had him concerned. All the remaining pirates lacked any form of training in the magical arts and without Salaah around there was little they could do should he turn out to be powerful. He sighed and stared at the evening sky, praying the excitement was done for the night.

[Kylin]

Cartius examined Terajima for a moment, seeming a bit annoyed by her presence. He must have decided that it wasn't worth the effort to say anything about it though. "Brigands you say? Just as I expected. This city is flooding with them after all."

 

The masked miqo'te continued evaluating Felix, tilting her head ever so slightly to the side as she did so. She clearly noticed his nervousness and appeared to be quite amused by it.

 

"As to why I'm here," Cartius continued. "There is an auction tomorrow with a very rare crystalline statue up for bidding. It was recently dug out of the Rhotana Sea and the craftsmanship is quite exquisite. Speaking of which, I should probably head to my room now that Lady Elysia's escort has arrived. I'll need some rest before the bidding war begins."

 

Turning to Elysia, Cartius smiled. "I do hope you find the time to join me at the auction tomorrow. And if not, do not forget to pay my son a visit upon your return to Ul'dah. He'd be oh so delighted to see you again." The noble's gaze shifted to Ryelle and then Terajima. "I do hope Lady Elysia is being put into good hands."

[Camille]

"If Ryelle trusts them, then I'll be fine in their safekeeping." Elysia held up her hand to him with a winsome smile. "I'll do my best to join you at the auction, Lord Cartius, and I look forward to seeing Castiel on my return. Please give him my warmest regards if I'm unable to see you tomorrow."

 

"My Lady is in the safest hands in the city, Lord Mavanix, save your own of course." Ryelle dipped a curtsy and waved over one of the baggage boys. She carefully collected a particular valise and motioned for him to wait behind Tera.

[GaelicWarlord]

Val's eyes watched Revan as the highlander began to stir in his sleep subtley. He had not regained consciousness, but it seemed that the medicine was already in its final stages, and his unconscious state would wear off in the next few hours. "...Wierd... you think the doc' gave 'im the right stuff? I thought this boyo's supposed ta' be sleepin' till the mornin?... he's not gonna wake 'er nothin, uh?"

 

Val moved over to the patient and nudged him with his foot, with little respect for the wounded man or his need for comfort. Like a child, poking at a sleeping dog with a stick.

 

Val looked at Croix expectantly, waiting for an answer.

[Kylin]

"Well if you say they are trustworthy, then I suppose I have no choice but to trust you. I look forward to our next meeting, my dear Elysia. And please do give your mother my deepest regards and condolences." Taking Elysia's hand, Cartius gently kissed it. "And farewell to you as well, Miss Ryelle."

 

With that the Mavanix patriarch made his way down the docks, barely acknowledging Terajima or Felix as he did so. The masked miqo'te casually followed after him, ensuring that she crossed right next to Felix on her path to catch up with her lord. As she passed the young pirate, her tail swooped out and gently rubbed against his leg in an attempt to make him even more uncomfortable just for a brief moment.

 

Cartius and his bodyguard soon disappeared out of sight, making their way into the inner city of Limsa Lominsa.

[Tyriont]

Terajima snorted derisively as she watched Cartius leave, ignoring the now hyperventilating Felix next to her. She'd heard the rumors about his attitude towards the "lower classes" and was less than surprised to have them validated.

 

"Stuck up son-of-an-Aldgoat. Looking down on us like - shut up Felix, she wasn't even that pretty - like we're dirtying his precious little view of the world. Hope he gets shanked." She shook her head in disgust and turned back to Ryelle and Elysia. "So, where are you two headed off to now? Gonna be safe enough without hawk-girl?"

 

~~~~~

 

Wandering Lion thumped Val on the back before Croix could even answer.

 

"No worries, lad! If 'e wakes up I'll jus' whack 'im on t'head an' knock 'im right back out again. 'e ain't gonna be givin' me no troubles, I'll promise ye tha' much. 'sides, Salaah an' Ro'an oughtta be back 'fore too long an' we're 'spectin' Ty an' Kira 'fore mornin'. Ye ain't got nothin' t'worry 'bout, lad." As he was issuing his reassurances, Hana pushed a steaming bowl of vegetable stew into the hands of both Val and Wandering Lion.

 

"Eat up, boys. You'll need your strength if you're planning on beating up wounded prisoners" she said with a low chuckle.

[Camille]

"As loathe as I am to impose, I believe we ought to continue to take up Mister Reinard's offer of a safe place to stay at the moment. I'd like to speak with him or your captain as well..." Ryelle frowned and then sighed softly as Elysia went forward and lightly caught Felix's elbow, gently patting his back. "My Lady, he's not an invalid."

 

"Are you alright Mister Felix? You should try not to breathe so rapidly." She grinned at Ryelle, "You lied to Lord Cartius about who they were, didn't you. Those are your rings. I remember you got one for your birthday a few years ago. And Mister Felix seems to be suffering shock, so I think helping get him back is the least we can do seeing as they were kind enough to bring you here." She smiled hopefully over at Tera, "Would it be alright if we did return with you, Miss Terajima? I'd love to hear how Ryelle met you and she wasn't lying about our needing a ship headed towards the Northern part of the continent."

[Tyriont]

Terajima looked uncertain a moment. Croix had instructed them to lead Ryelle out here but hadn't given any word on what to do should she want to return. She glanced over at Felix who had finally regained his composure and was now looking to her for instruction. Cursing under her breath, she resented being placed in this position...if Croix had been wrong, she'd be directly responsible for leading a potential enemy back to the lair. Fortunately, she was spared from her dilemma by a familiar voice from behind her.

 

"Who're your friends, Tera?" came an inquiry from the Miqo'te approaching the group. She was of average build, but seemed dwarfed by the hulking Hyur highlander walking alongside her. She wore a loose-fitting hooded tunic and linen pants, her sharp green eyes piercing all they turned on. Brown hair hung down to her shoulders, somewhat sodden from sea-spray. Hanging from a loop on her belt was a twisted wand identifying her as a Conjurer. Her companion seemed to have his face twisted into a permanent scowl, an ugly scar stretching over his right eye which was constantly closed. His skin was rough and tanned, obviously a man who had spent a great deal of time in harsh conditions. A think goatee covered his chin and his face was framed by thick hair, as drenched as his companion's. His good eye examined Ryelle and Elysia closely. Terajima spun around, obviously relieved to see the new arrivals.

 

"Salaah! Ro'an! Thank Llymlaen, I'm glad to see you." Terajima wasted no time in bringing her friends up to speed on the current situation, being careful not to reveal too much in front of the as yet untested Elysia.

 

"I see..." Salaah said thoughtfully ash Terajima finished her explanation. She moved gracefully closer to the two women, looking them up and down intently. "If Croix deemed it safe to bring this one back with him, I suppose there's no harm in returning with them. As for the other..." she looked thoughtfully at Elysia for a moment "I don't think she'll be much of a threat to us. You can return with us for now. As far as securing our services...that'll be a decision to be made by Captain Gaidal. We can discuss compensation when he returns. Come." She turned away and lead the way back to the lair of the Phoenix Pirates, with Ro'an silently bringing up the rear.

 

~~~~~

 

Croix had been growing concerned about the length of time Terajima and Felix had been gone when he heard the familiar set of raps at the door that indicated a member of the crew was outside. All eyes watched the door open as Salaah's entourage entered, Ro'an locking the door behind them once they were all in. Salaah moved over to Croix and kissed him as a greeting, bringing a smile to the Elezen's face.

 

"Welcome back, sweetheart. How'd it go?" Salaah settled down on a box next to Croix, taking in the inhabitants of the room.

 

"Well. It's surprising how willing the shipwrights are to haggle when Ro'an is around." She chuckled, as a small smirk appeared on Ro'an's lips. "So this is the one who killed One-Eye's brother, eh? Nice one, Val." As she spoke, Croix's attention had turned to Elysia, who was already having a bottle of rum shoved at her by Wandering Lion.

 

"I take it this is Ryelle's mistress, then? Croix Reinard, First Mate of the Phoenix Pirates." He went around the room, introducing Elysia to the crew members she had yet to meet. "I assume you're also wanting to lie low until tonight's events blow over?"