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Post by Lady Kamille Verlithax on Mar 1, 2023 10:46:21 GMT -5
With both Allan and Poe invisible, it would look like it was only Kamille and Edgar there. Once the rest of their group arrived, Kamille stepped forward, with a gentle smile upon her lips.
"Good morning, gentleman. What a performance! I just wanted to give you my compliments on your performance this morning... Such an amazing, coordinated effort is hard to find these days....."
The Witch approached, seemingly unafraid. With no weapons visible, it was clear that steel was the least of their problems. Her feathery cloak brushed softly against his shoulders as she started to circle Erik, all of her interest and measuring eyes focused on him. If his friends wished to do something silly, they wouldn’t even know what hit them, with the Black Quills just waiting from the shadows [1,2].
"Not to mention the show itself, of course. Though I have to wonder how much better you could get... Under someone else's wings. Under Exalted's hands......... Is that something that ever crossed your mind?"
She snapped her fingers [3], and on the palm of her hand a spark quickly became a flame [4], that the woman showed the man up and close. It soon took the shape of... himself? The way she watched him that very morning, manipulating the flames himself.
"It can be hard to see beyond a threshold, sometimes... But I do think Fate has more for you than petty thievery... You can keep the gold if you'd like. For your show."
Kamille took a step back, closing her hand and snuffing out the fire, giving Edgar a nod. Without a word, the Black Quill released Miguel from his bindings. He wasn’t hurt in anyway, it would seem.
"I'm glad you liked my crows.... I like to think I have an eye for talent."
....but that was an overstatement, most likely.
"And I'm sure I have so much more to offer than a meager few coins at the end of the day....... If you would only do me a favor."
A shot in the dark. Who said she didn’t have a gambler's vein, deep down? Seeing as she wasn’t upset about losing her coins, but went all the way to have their attention, it was more than likely that she could fulfill her part of the deal.
[1]Invisibility [2]Silent step [3]Create spark [4]Control flames
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Post by Erik Hollows on Mar 2, 2023 9:19:24 GMT -5
Erik looked her over “that so? Wel thank you luv. “ he replied keeping an eye on his surroundings and making sure the others were okay. He was on guard with a hand towards his dagger in case there was quick movement as he was circled before looking to the others “both of you stay as you are. If those others are around somewhere I’m sure they won’t hesitate” he replied before focusing his full attention on kamille “what like the pompous academy the crown allows to be bought in and such? Not particularly” he replied with a little shrug before pausing as he saw the flames recreating the earlier scene hardly hiding his surprised and how impressed he was
“Why is hm? Why offer to teach me when you know what we do?” He asked cautiously before hearing the offer of a favor “what kind of favor are you wanting lass?” He questioned raising a brow. He tried to act indifferent and uncaring though this whole show had him interested
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Post by Lady Kamille Verlithax on Mar 3, 2023 4:51:55 GMT -5
"Why offer to teach me when you know what we do?"
Her reasons were layered. She tried to mask everything she did under the guise of "creating good contacts" and "gathering information and talent" but she wouldn't deny there was some will, down there, to also help people in tough situations. And she clearly had a soft spot for the mischiefs and underdogs, so it was a double win for her, truly. But for the moment being, she avoided answering him directly.
"Do you people do that for a living? How many times a day do you have to worry about food being brought on the table? How many times have society trampled over you and it cost you what felt like a lifetime to be back up?"
Without any sudden moves, despite his defensive stance, the Witch stepped closer. Her eyes had a pull akin to the tide, stars swirling inside in a slow, slosh motion as a dark blue nebula. Clearly she was more powerful than she would let on. Gently, she took his hand, taking a look at his palm and tracing the lines with the claws etched to her gloves.
"The Arcane Academy would rather have people crawl alongside them than teach them how to fly... And you... You could be flying much higher than this. I imagine the life of a petty thief must be exciting at times, and I'm far from keeping you from your nature... But... Have you never wanted more?"
For a moment, the world outside of them faded away in a multicolored blurr. The pull of her words was almost as strong as her eyes - not exactly honeyed words, even if laced with compliments. Certain, honest, true words, bared and polished like smooth stone. Her presence had a weight not entirely because of her power, but certainly enhanced by it. Crossing this woman under the wrong terms felt like danger, but she clearly got a liking to Erik and his companions.
"To answer your question, I'll be honest and say I have always had a place in my heart for the mischiefs, you know... And, under more practical terms, I have the need of your skills. I could put them to good use. I could pay well. Not only with solars.... But with a future. With a prospect. With a life beyond the scurrying of the streets for a few solars on someone else's pockets."
The Witch let go of his hand for a moment, but kept close.
"There is someone that owes a friend of mine some big money. My friend says this person is in possesion of a curious artifact that has his interest, and they would have this artifact in exchange of forgiving his debt. I need you to have him hand it over. Willingly would be better."
Of course, she would have ways to watch him, even if Erik wasn't aware. It was both a test of skill..... and probably of loyalty too.
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Post by Erik Hollows on Mar 3, 2023 11:35:24 GMT -5
“In the past it was rough but we made a family and with all our little entertainments and such it hasn’t been too bad anymore” he stated though there was still some anger in his eyes for the society that looked down upon those who had less and were therefore thought less of for such things but he would t admit that. He wouldn’t admit that it was still hard and that it was a struggle at times for food
He flinched at the touch not used to such things but kept his hand there raising a brow at her actions. He listened to her talk looking at her as he listened “and what do you need our skills for? Can’t know how much the cost will be until we know the job and such you know” he replied knowing better to know the game and price before any agreements were made
Hearing the request he raised a brow and thought “well convincing isn’t our normal gig as much as making things disappear is so it may cost a bit more for that but sounds simple. What’s the catch?” He questioned as he looked at her
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Post by Lady Kamille Verlithax on Mar 7, 2023 9:44:25 GMT -5
The catch?
Of course a scammer would be wary of opportunities falling off the sky, she couldn't even fault him. But Kamille would often work with an open game, putting - most of - her cards on the table and allowing people to make a choice. She was no pushover, she wanted with her people that wanted to be with her.
She wanted loyalty.
But she also needed to be smart about when to open her game. Was Erik in it yet?
This whole ordeal was requiring of her lots of leaps of faith.
"I need eyes in Sol City. And I'm sure people like you would be perfect for such tasks. I know this is not your specialization, particularly, but... I am known for being generous with my associates."
Much could be noticed to be true. Each and every single one of her associates were in pristine conditions, either evident by their quality clothes - even if discrete - and weaponry. Kamille herself was fond of luxury and the finer things in life, and even if not particularly extravagant that day, quality was something her clothes always screamed. As if to make a point, she felt between her claws the fabric of his vest, straightening the chest of his clothes as an old habit of hers, straightening up buttons and lines.
"You may consider this a test of sorts. An opportunity. Be assured, I take care of what is mine. Of my friends and alliances..."
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Post by Erik Hollows on Mar 10, 2023 7:15:43 GMT -5
Erik looked at her waiting for an answer occasionally checking to see if the others appeared or not. Upon hearing her reasoning he paused and looked over the one visible associate, looking him over. “Eyes in the city hm? I suppose that isn’t too bad though what are you looking for?” He questioned curiously. He then listened to the rest of the conversation thinking it all over for a while before grinning and holding out a hand “sounds like a deal ma’am. Just make sure my friends have plenty of food and I’m sure this will work out fine” he replied
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Post by Lady Kamille Verlithax on Mar 14, 2023 12:32:26 GMT -5
When Erik asked what she wanted him to look for, Kamille offered him a mischievous grin.
"Everything, and nothing in particular, unless I ask. I want every piece of news and gossip, who goes where and when. But first."
The Witch shot a curious look to Erik's partners, before focusing on him again.
"First you do me this... favor. And then we can start to settle the details of our... partnership. Agreed?" Kamille extended her hand for a friendly handshake. Despite the fact her gloves had black claws at the ends, her hand was warm and her eyes had a firm resolution of stone.
"Get me this item from before the man leaves the island, and I'll have you and your friends fed. And if you wish to step into my inner circle of apprentices... All you need to do is ask."
She saw potential in Erik, and knew he could much more if he ever wanted some time from his life of scams and street performances.
"By the way.... My name is Kamille. People call me the Witch of Moonglade."
This would be interesting... How much farther had her name traveled?
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Post by Erik Hollows on Mar 16, 2023 7:01:49 GMT -5
He looked at her then to her hand after a moment before holding his hand out and shaking it “fine I suppose. But if you cross us it won’t be good” he replied simply as it was common with all deals to give a friendly reminder. He looked a bit surprised at her confirmation and nodded “the famous witch hm? Well I suppose we can get this done and if this partner ship goes well I will be in your tutorage “ he replied looking to the others “you heard the lass. We have an item to retrieve”
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Post by Lady Kamille Verlithax on Mar 18, 2023 6:47:31 GMT -5
Erik's warning - or should she say... threat? - was met with a gentle smile and nothing more. Kamille herself wasn't fond of making threats. Instead, those who crossed her path in a wrong way were just faced with the consequences of doing her wrong. It hasn't happened in any significant manner so far, but.
She hoped it never would. She was certain she could lose control.
It was a friendly handshake, even with the claws. Warm hands and smiles, Kamille gave off the feeling of a gentle, generous soul - even when walking right up in the line of the law and crime.
Kamille quickly whipped up a small piece of parchment and handed it to Erik.
"His name is Theron. He is supposed to be leaving tomorrow morning with the item. It's a rare, incredibly valuable figurine of Solaria, said to have belonged to our beloved king or whatever. It's in his hands now, and he managed to get his way into a cargo ship that leaves tomorrow. Do this for me, with whatever means you dispose of, and we can talk about a partnership."
A common burglar would be drooling at the opportunity to betray her, to take the golden figurine and run away. She was prepared for such, and was taking the appropriate measures.
It all came down to Erik's choice: either he came under the wing of a powerful mage, or drew the wrath of the Witch of Moonglade.
"I'll be at the Brass Dragon tomorrow night. See you there."
With a cheerful, charming wink, perfectly matched by a playful smile upon rosy lips, Kamille left Erik to his own devices.
She would be waiting.
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Post by Erik Hollows on Mar 19, 2023 20:08:26 GMT -5
Erik shook her hand then took the paper examining it soon looking back up to her and nodding "Right then" he replied as he weighed the offer. Of course money was tempting but if she could feed them and give them a better life at least for a bit it was a better chance for the moment. Once she left he began devising a plan with the other two and later in the evening they enacted that plan.
It went rather smoothly and the man went on the ship none the wiser to his missing statue at the moment. Erik grinned and clapped the two on the back before leading them into the tavern, the statue in a pouch along with the request paper
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Post by Lady Kamille Verlithax on Mar 23, 2023 4:44:46 GMT -5
Kamille had been waiting. She didn't doubt of Erik's capacity, but still wasn't sure of his honesty... If that was the right word. Her trusted Poe and Allan both watched them all along the way, making sure they wouldn't just pocket the artifact and run with it.
Upon entering the inn, Kamille would be at one of the more reserved booths upstairs, waiting for them. Edgar was there to guide them to her, and all they needed was to follow his silent lead. The Witch was on a large table, clearly meant for Erik and his companions, and when they arrived, she flashed one of those gentle, bright smiles at him.
"You've come back. Wonderful."
She didn't look surprised.
"Please, take a seat. And tell me your story of how you did it. Drinks on me."
Then, she closed her eyes for a moment, waving her hand in a large gesture. Before their eyes, the large table that had been previously empty suddenly sprout all sorts of food, everything worth of a King's feast. Roasted fish and pork, stews and bread and cheese and pies. A generous assorted collection of food, just at the snap of her fingers [1].
"I hope this is worth of a victor's feast..."
Kamille gave Erik a playful wink.
[1]The Grand Feast
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Post by Erik Hollows on Mar 23, 2023 10:30:37 GMT -5
They had cautiously entered tavern and looked around as they walked towards the table and nodded. Erik gave a little grin “I’m a man of my word” he remarked as he sat across from her “not hard to get things from cocky individuals. A quick distraction and some skill in lifting such things off another and it was done. Quite the chatty one but none the wiser honestly” he remarked with a shrug. He then looked at the appearing food a bit surprised. He took a small careful bite as he had grown accustomed to doing to see if it was safe and once he knew it was he nodded and the two by him began to dig in “well gotta say I’m surprised. Most aren’t so kind with their skills” he remarked as he ate a bit
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Post by Lady Kamille Verlithax on Apr 4, 2023 4:39:14 GMT -5
"Most aren't so skilled. I have a healthy estimate of my skills."
Had anyone else said that, that might've seen as presumptuous or cocky, but when the Witch of Moonglade said it... Well, it did feel like stating the obvious. She did have the history to back it up.
"I'm glad to see you're all good. Might I take a look at the item?"
Kamille seemed very at ease with Erik and his friends, which could either indicate she actually trusted them... or trusted her own abilities to keep them at check. Maybe a bit of both.
"If you don't mind me asking, Mr. Erik... When did you learn earth domain magic? Did someone teach you? Or did it come espontaneously?"
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Post by Erik Hollows on Apr 8, 2023 10:19:31 GMT -5
Erik nodded and set the covered item before her so she could evaluate it and check that the condition of it was still good and such "Sure." he nodded before hearing her question "Oh that? Mostly found i could do it when young. Then we spied on practitioners, stole some books on it and such so I could learn more. Kids gotta survive somehow and it seemed better to have distractions when taking than just going for it." he replied simply "How about you? Where did you or your friends learn your skills in the arcane?" he asked curiously
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Post by Lady Kamille Verlithax on Apr 16, 2023 18:31:25 GMT -5
Kamille flashed a mischievous grin to Erik. She wondered how he would react if he knew the truth about how she was introduced to the arcane studies...
"I was very lucky. My father was a mage and alchemist, so he taught me some things. And then, since he was a very well connected man, when the time came he managed to get me a good Master."
That was her to-go broad answer. It was true, of course - she was a bad liar. She was also very good at concealing the details, and we all know what's in the details...
She opened the bundle Erik passed on to her, and while he himself must feel there was some arcane residue spilling out of it, it was still very subtle. Unassuming and plain, like most interesting rare things were, it was a stone tablet with a very curious hexagonal shape, covered in runes and with very sharp edges. Kamille looked pleased, covering it up once again and allowing one of her Black Quills to take it away safely.
"That is a tough life. I hope that our association can add meaning to it, and ease your path from now on."
She took a small dumpling to eat for herself, leaning back in her chair and comfortably crossing her legs on one side of the table in a languid motion.
"Some of us thrive without the constant need for attention, which can sometimes feel... smothering. I was like that, at least. Still, a good and strong foundation is important, and I hope I can help you with that. I have some things I need to attend here at Sol City first, so... How about we meet in a week from here?"
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