In this world, Magic is Everything. All people, all races, are granted with the power to perform mystical and magical feats via grimories, mystical tomes granted to each and every child on their 15th birthday. Those blessed by the mana can have their names written down in legend.
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Post by Jorah Von Shurke on Oct 14, 2021 13:20:48 GMT -5
Jorah would not talk while the trip was made to the Royal Capital, using back channel methods of getting access and antiquated routes he soon found himself in the archival area. They were within eyeshot of the building in which they were instructed to enter, but with the possibility of others being in the area and the fact that there were twenty two guards...Jorah had to be quick on his feet, sure of his plans, and confident in his actions. All that provided him stress was the wildcard addition of Yemir and Mania should they have joined the gentleman rogue. ”So the plan is to cause a distraction. Perhaps a fire...or three somewhere in the area, of course there needs to be a reason for the fire...I am thinking of a broken lantern from a rusted or damaged light post. Then again I am ears if you have suggestions?” Jorah spoke in a hushed tone, he knew someone was there, but did not know if Yemir and Mania BOTH followed or just one. Whether it be from ignorance, or just simple uncare, Jorah chose not to talk until this moment for a reason, but whatever it was...the fact remained that he did not trust others.
The tension in the air chocked the mute ambiance, but for Mania the trip was filled with the disembodied voices of his crumbling psychosis. Comparable to the deep end, Mania was diving far below it's maddening depths to where only the sable blackness of the abyss existed. Though he appeared calm upon the exterior, interiorly he was battling for his sanity. The journey to the Royal Capital had been suspicious to say the least. The rogue felt as if he was being escorted to his own grave - some place off the grid to be executed mercilessly. Like a animal. The White haired rogue who had recruited Mania and Yemir if she too had took the devil's pact didn't bother to see if either of the two were faithfully following. And still, the stranger felt so imposing to Mania. Not once did he glance back or acknowledge Mania. The rogue could feel it, the sickening sensation brought shame and jealousy.
The whispered nothings of Fear and contempt.
The difference in power. How long had it been since Mania was in the presence of another who he couldn't hope to best? Mania's mind was a derisive, acrimonious prison of cruel design, engineered especially to attack him in the most cunning of ways. The soft whispers spoke hauntingly, playing off his deepest fears that manifested dreamless phantasms. If this man had wanted to he could have easily taken Mania's life.
For what reasons?
Mania's mind made sure to coo such dark, sweet fallacies unto him. Playing to Mania's weaknesses and driving him to the cusp of self ruin and breaking completely. It was suffocating when Mania was in the deep end - the darkness clouded his judgement, impaired Mania's typically sound reasoning. It was at such times Mania would retreat into himself and do what he'd done ever since he was a boy. Isolate himself from the world. The rogue wanted to run, but he could never bring himself to action. Terrified his warden would slay him the very moment he could sense Mania's veiled fear. It felt like an eternity for Mania, but soon he would be snapped from his internal struggle by the strangers rough and matured voice. The rogue hadn't realized he was on autopilot and as he raised from the proverbial, tenebrous depths the world around came into stunning clarity.
The transition was staggering as if awaking from a deep trance.
Mania had never been to the Royal Capital before, it was truly a marvel. The sounds and smells of the Capital was something else, the place was so large and crowded. Mania and the stranger were in the archival district, within eyeshot of the building for their mark. "Yeah, a fire should work. Spread 'em out over the area, draw as much of the guards away as possible. The distraction should let us move more freely. We should split momentarily and make this the rendezvous point for phase two. Still what do we do once we're inside?" Even with their distraction Mania was of the sneaking disposition that security would still be tight within the building. This task would not be easy.
"How should we go about infiltrating the building?" Mania pondered the idea for a brief moment before considering the possibilities. Using force wouldn't be ideal, too much unwanted attention would be drawn to them. Besides the stranger's first suggestion was the use of misdirection. He was just as must assuredly wanting to complete the mission smoothly, so Mania could trust he was somewhat of a clever man. The stranger had definitely piqued Mania's interest. Otherwise Mania wouldn't have followed him unconsciously in the dark, sacred and blinded. There was much he could probably learn from the man, but as Mania first surmised, the stranger had been well guarded. The young rogue was skilled at pickpocketing secretes from lips, but thought it best to play it cool. Earn the white-haired rouges interest first. Trust however would prove to be a daunting endeavor.
"They said we needed to steal new information for them right? How do we know what they have and don't? Puts a fellow in a hard place. I think we should aim our sights on something well protected. Should gain us favor with some people in high places dont'cha think?"
Mania would speak low enough for the white-haired rogue and Yemir to hear as he fetched a cheap cigarette and took a deep, long pull after lighting it.
Such an obscure style of giving a request to a band of rogues and criminals. Go get information about the shady dealings from the kingdom. That kind of request could mean anything to anyone, what type of dealings were they actually looking into and why was this the beginning request? Some of these thoughts were going through Yemir’s mind as she followed Jorah and Mania to their designated spot which was being decided by Jorah himself. Yemir didn’t have any issue with following Jorah or Mania to be completely honest she had heard of one of them prior to this and the other she had worked with on some missions so she was at least not going into this blind or with people she couldn’t depend on. Though she did wonder if Mania every fixed his “no offensive magic” issue though if there was a situation that needed some defense that would be easily solved and Yemir knew that she had the ability to deal damage and be stealthy as needed.
They arrived at the Royal Capital and that was when Jorah decided to grace the both of them with his voice and ideas. Distractions seem to be the name of the game and open communication on plans was the method of command. Jorah suggested causing a fire of some sort to pull guards and direct attention elsewhere and Mania seemed to back that decision overall it was a fine plan that would work in just about anywhere though Yemir had her doubts on how well it would work here in the Royal Capital itself. A place where all the highest of security and nobles lived, surely there would be a set guard that was made for dealing with those outbursts, she wouldn’t even be surprised if some of these buildings and areas had magic sensors that dealt with that exact issue here in the Capital.
“I think we should figure out where they keep the information first before we set any kind of distractions. If we light the place up and only scramble around like mice in the dark we will just be caught.” Yemir pointed out as she liked the plan but didn’t want any of them to think this place would be some easy pickings like the normal places they spent their times at were.
“I have an ability that will conceal my presence and mana for a small time but I will still be clearly visible if someone looks at me, so I can handle the sneaking around bit.” Yemir offered as possible choices going forward, she was more then confident in her ability to stay hidden but she would like to make sure there were as little guards in the area and at least knew the general idea of where she needed to go. “What did the agent say? That there would be a maximum of twenty-two guards. Five of which were Junior, Ten of Intermediate, another five of Senior and the last two being on par of some Vice captains?” Yemir reiterated for the others.
“We are to not cause a scene or a blood bath.” Yemir pointed out, “As long as we don’t raise the alarm in the archives I think we will be fine with doing the fires or even getting rid of a couple of the knights themselves. Though I think it would be smart to do our best to avoid combat overall.” Yemir finished recounting all she could remember from the Agent’s information which had been weirdly accurate and precise. She also noted Mania’s concern about what kind of information that they needed to get, they had no clue what information would be valuable to the agent especially if they were able to find out how many guards and their strengths would be on duty today so easily.
Post by Jorah Von Shurke on Oct 28, 2021 19:02:01 GMT -5
Listening to Yemir speak was like listening to someone that walked the path given to them, while Mania seemed to like the mayhem he was talking about. Yet Yemir was correct, doing this without a proper plan was just as dangerous as if to tempt the lions with a steak before ripping it from their grasp...only to get your arm removed with a ferocity unlike any other. ”I have moved books around on the third floor, where general records are kept and log books for the knights...The directory that is inside of the offices encompasses the library as well as the archives...and the place we need to go to is not above ground at all...we will need to find a way to find out where it is, maybe it's on the top floor, or perhaps it's even underground. The best way would be a diversion that is large enough that it can keep everyone at bay. I have a way to track the knights, but I would have no way of direction if I leave your sides. I can also increase my speed, but that is all I have...unless we plan on restraining these mages and knocking them out, but Yemir you are right...we should not openly look for combat situations...but we need answers.” He pondered for a moment, they could go around in circles all night looking for an answer but the fact of the matter was...the longer they took...the less chance they had with their benefactors of making the “cut” as it were.
”So here is my proposal...we need someone we can interrogate...Yemir, with your ability to become unseen I think you should find a way to lure one over to us. Then we can restrain them and then find out where our target area is. What do you think...thoughts?”[/colors] He said as he was eager to get this done, but with limited resources...this is the best he could come up with on the top of his head.
Yemir would chime in with words that belied the girls age.
Jorah would display his resourcefulness once more, informing both Yemir and Mania about the preliminary measures he took in advance. Mania would fetch a cigarette and lighter from his pocket, sparking it as he would take a deep pull. The rogue would listen intently as Jorah dove into the finer intricacies of the operation. He would also fill the team in on his strengths. Mania himself didn't have skills that were particularly useful given the mission's parameters. Though he too possessed an ability to mask his mana. Mania's skill in sensory magic was respectable for a mage of his caliber; however, the rogue wouldn't feel the need to explain that to his teammates. Mania would lean against the alley wall and exhale, his hazel eyes glancing over both Yemir and Jorah for a brief moment.
"Whatever you guys decide, I'll simply follow. Sounds like your up shorty~"
Mania would coo playfully, his smooth voice relaxed and musical in tone. The rogue flashed a smile, taking another long drag of the cigarette. The plan the team devised thus far was simple: first Yemir would attract the attention of a single guard, luring them to the shadowed alley. From there they would subdue the guard and interrogate him. Yup, just another day in the life of a rogue Mania mused. There wasn't much for him himself to do yet, but he was sure Jorah would delegate something to him sooner or later. Mania was after all skilled at coercion and subterfuge. His talent for Sensory magic enabling him to easily track lesser mages while concealing himself. "Just bring us a little birdie, I have a talent for making them sing beautifully..." Mania added, hints of being a trickster fused with his words.
Jorah paid attention to Yemir’s plan pretty intently she noticed and Mania gave the same attention, that was a good sign for the young rogue. If this group didn’t pay attention to everyone’s idea and simply push others to the side then it would have turned into a chaotic mess of everyone just doing whatever they wanted. Luckily it seemed that this group was pretty well off on ideas and planning, maybe there was hope for them after all. Yemir listened to Jorah suggesting they needed more information about where the archives actually were and that it would be best if they could get someone to ask said question too, even Mania agreed to that idea and seemed to have some experience in that department which from what Yemir had seen of how Mania worked in the couple of tasks they had done together was a bit surprising but not so much so that it wasn’t expected. It was like learning that someone like pineapple on pizza, shocking but not life ending.
“Very well I’ll go get us a canary and Mania you will take care of its singing.” Yemir whispered as they neared the place where the guards were. “I’ll be off.” She said as she went into her trance of motions of erasing her presence and mana signature, as long as you looked at Yemir you would be able to see her but the moment she went out of your sight it was like as if she had turned into a ghost. Moving quickly she spotting a roving mage and by what she was able to sense it was one of the many Junior level guards. She waited a moment and followed out of sight to make sure there wasn’t any other guards that met with this one or would notice their disappearance. Once she was satisfied that there wasn’t anyone that would notice the mage was gone till the eventual rotation of the guards which shouldn’t happen till early morning she made her way closer to the guard. She casted a single spell “Nightfall” dropping her hand with fingers outspread onto the mage a large sphere of shadow fell onto the guard taking his sight from him and in this moment she attacked the mage first kicking out his legs and then putting the mage into a chokehold to cut off any sound of pain or a chance to alert other guards.
Once the guard was knocked out she would fire man carry the mage back to the others. She gently laid the mage down more out of trying to keep noise to a minimum then being kind, she made sure to cancel her spell also so there wouldn’t be anyone that would see it. “There, one canary that needs a singing lesson.” Yemir said as she wiped off the dirt that had gotten on her clothes when they had been on the ground as she had been choking out the mage earlier.
Name of Spell: Nightfall Elemental Type: Shadow (Fire Oddity) Rank & Spell Type: Junior | Sensory Range & Speed: 10m | 10m/s Mana Cost: 10 | 5 Stats Effected: -4 Sensory Applicable Perks: Master Illusionist: They will now require the needed sensory to see through an illusion to increase by 2 per 10 control an illusionist has. Description:
Muttering Nightfall and dropping her hand with her fingers spread out Yemir activates Nightfall which envelops the area in a 10 meter 360 degree sphere of shadow and fire mixing and swirling together. Those caught by this illusion have their sight taken away and their Sensory debuff for -4 unless they have the needed sensory or ki to see through the illusion. 15 sensory is needed to see through this spell, this increases by 2 for ever 10 control Yemir has. The needed Sensory to see through the spell is reduced by -2 per round sustained. The range of this spell increases by +10 meters per 10 Sensory that Yemir has. Yemir is able to create more of these spheres and is able to avoid allies in accordance with the Ammo rules.
Yemir's mana signature would vanish, like a blown candle in the night. The mechanical girl would still be visible; however, to those who used magic to perceive the world, Yemir was a ghost. There was silence thereafter, Mania watched the girl slip off and out of sight. Crouching low to the ground the rogue would clasp his hands together. Head resting upon his linked palms, Mania's dark blue hair fell and obscured his face. Darkness fell upon the rogue's closed eyes, he was calm, his mind lucidly clear. Mania knew what he had to do, he braced himself in anticipation of the act - a show would be starting soon.
Guard in tow, Yemir didn't take long to return and sure enough, she brought back a beautiful canary that was asleep. The silent ambiance of the room would be disturbed as Mania stood to his feet and walked towards their caged bird. His focused hazel eyes were fixated upon the bird he was about to instruct. Mania regarded the poor fellow with a detached countenance. He was chosen randomly by fate, and she was a fickle woman who was indiscriminately cruel. 'We all served this whimsical mistress.' Mania mused as he begin the show in ruthless fashion. Pulling the man's shirt over his head as he lay unaware and unconscious, the rogue would grip it carefully. Gently Mania rolled him onto his back and positioned the guard's arm so he could snap it. Using the force of his weight and gravity Mania stomped down on it. The sickening crunch would wake the canary who attempted to sing out, but the rogue had been quick to switch his position.
Smoothly he transitioned to the ground and muffled the guard's cries. His whimpers were faint, only being heard by the three rogues. Almost lovingly Mania would shush him as he held the man's head and rubbed his face reassuringly. No doubt they were scared, their vision was shrouded by darkness. The pain from his broken arm was immense the rogue thought, as he waited for the choked bawling to cease. It only took a moment or two, realization and morbid despondency settled in. Ascertaining that he understood to stay quiet, Mania loosened his grip upon the guard's neck. The rogue wouldn't remove the blindfold, preferring to leave when, where, and up to his beautiful canary's imagination. It was a powerful tool that produced the most lucid realities. Mania would hold the caged bird gingerly, caressing his chin like a lover.
"Now, listen to me. If you speak out of turn you will die. If you sing too loudly for me, you will die painfully. Nod if you understand?~" The guard readily nodded as Mania released his hand.
"Good, now it's important for yer safety that you tell me everything I need to know. You might just get to live if you do so~"
Mania's hand would once more lovingly take hold of the guard's chin as he did as he was told.
"I'm looking for dirt on the Magic Knights and I'm not talking about the small stuff we already know. I want something that will smear their name into the muck. Can you tell me something useful? Or shall I have my friend come over to hold you for a moment, he's a man of very few words?~ "
The guard readily nodded to the first option with little hesitation.
"Speak~"
"There's information on the war that we keep locked away pretty tight underground. Everything that happened during the war with Diamond is kept archived there. Please don't kill me..."
Mania cooed the man who broke into a sobbing plea for mercy, silencing him to quiet down.
"You did well, so think I might let you live~"
Mania would apply pressure and choke the blindfolded man as he slowly drifted out of consciousness. Mania would pick the sleeping guard up and discard him away from view. He would be sure to conceal his body somewhere in the darkness where he wouldn't be found for some time.
"Think I taught that canary splendidly if I do say so myself. Whatdya think we head to the basement where they are keeping the archives from the war? Sounds spicy enough~"
Echoing his thoughts to his partner's Mania would gloss over them both, cool-headed and as even-tempered as usual. The curtain had called upon the show and the act was finally over.
STATS
POW: 000 DUR: 025 SEN: 012 STA: 014 CON: 012
SPEED: 5m/s HEALTH: senior MANA SKIN: senior MANA POOL: 050 / 050 MANA REGEN: 05 IC / 10 OOC
SPELLS
--
NOTES
WORD COUNT: 735 TOTAL WC: 1,786 TAG(S): @yemir | Jorah Von Shurke
Post by Jorah Von Shurke on Nov 8, 2021 18:33:50 GMT -5
Jorah watched the work at hand, Yemir worked efficiently and of course it was not long before, under the cover of the clouds above did Yemir arrive back with a new little friend this time. A magic knight dedicated for guard duty outside of the royal archives...Jorah saw Mania move quickly to the knight. It was odd that the man did not show any squad colors, so when they began with the odd speech of being a canary...Jorah almost laughed and had to wipe away his tears after hearing them interrogate and intimidate the man. ”A canary...really that is what you two came up with...and you call me old…” He said to Yemir, the female was alright by Jorah…a level head with a penchant for getting in and out of situations in a quick and precise manner. It was not long until they all heard the words that they needed to hear about where the actual archives were. The next moment Mania decided that knocking out the mage was the appropriate measure and left Jorah with the thought of how to quickly hide a body if they were trying to be stealthy, but his thoughts were unneeded as Mania quickly moved the body into the shadows. ”Impressive...preservational skills as well, seems as though this little operation will go smoothly after all.” Jorah said as he went over to the magic knight and used his plant magic that he had copied from a peculiar young lady once...and he restrained their captive a bit more, making him seem more like topiary than a body that was knocked out and just placed in the shadows. Joining back with his two cohorts with a smile he pointed to the main building, there was a small window on the side of the building...a cellar? This job was looking like it was too easy after all. ”Now that our canary is properly caged, we won’t have to work on such a narrow window. Although, the place we now have to get into is...a narrow window.” Jorah pointed his hand, index finger outstretched towards that window to the east of the building. It was unguarded and possibly on the inside it was unoccupied because there were no shadows that moved around...at least from what he could see.
Jorah was looking out in the shadows as he pointed to a way to just traverse the grounds...it took nearly an hour to memorize the patrol, and so far the knights just assumed that their little comrade had “fallen asleep” somewhere in one of his usual spots...awfully convenient for them would one not think? Jorah filled Yemir and Mania on the patrol, even though they could easily watch themselves...then he filled them in on what information they were looking for. ”Once we make it into this place, the plan is to look for anything pertaining to an individual...a former Vice Captain...and a friend of the old guard...Silas Vermillion. I have been following a lead for a long time that points the man, as well as three others in a crime against the people...murder to cover up indescrepencies for the crown. Among other things…” He only let them into a few things, but there was a rumor that he was involved with an incident concerning a Blake family member that now was running a province. How fun it was to defame national heroes...he would smile at the thought and need to be brought back down from his mental high note for sure, but he was not wrong at the end of the day...these people needed to be given the proper attention deserving of...Dogs of the Military.
Jorah appeared thoroughly entertained and impressed by Mania and Yemir as they interrogated the guard.
The white-haired gentleman rogue would add a few finishing touches to Mania's work, covering the guard with plant magic to further restrain him as well as hide him more deceptively.
"What can I say? Us rogue's do love our metaphors."
Mania would chime in his smooth voice as the rogue returned from his actions, both Yemir and Mania were waiting idly to proceed with the operation. The rogue's hazel eyes would follow Jorah's finger towards the easternmost window of the building that seemed unguarded. It would be a tight fit, but Mania was confident at least he or Yemir could easily gain access and possibly let the others in should it come down to that. Listening, Mania's eyes would fall upon Jorah's visage as he would dive into shorthanded detail about the guard's patterns. The gentleman rogue had surely done his homework, having memorized their routes and changes in personnel. The job was looking like it would be a piece of cake from here, Mania mused. The subject would shift to exactly what kind of information on the war the trio would be searching for.
Apparently, a former Magic Knight Vice-Captain named Silas Vermillion had been heavily involved in some more unsavory things. Jorah's revelation would fuel the fire in Mania's eyes for discord. If they could procure this information it would turn the world on its head and spiral the kingdom into doubt of their saviors. Smearing the name of war heroes was something the rogue would enjoy as he waited for his moment of opportunity to slip into the building's open window. Landing lithely into the dark shadowed room, Mania would ascertain that the coast was clear before signaling the two of his comrades. Looking about Mania would wait patiently as he melded with the darkness and slightly opened the utility room's door. Peering through the crack, he would see two guards, both who were pathing just as Jorah had stated earlier.
"Two guards just as ya said. Looks like our window to move is soon~"
Whispering lowly within the sable utility room, Mania turned back to the cracked door and watched patiently. The group of rogues would have to tread carefully now that they were within a restricted area. The last thing they would want is to raise any alarms, so subterfuge and cunning would be required to complete this task. Mania's sticky fingers were ready to steal, he could feel it in his bones as he mulled over really sticking it to those dogs of the military. WC: 436 TWC: 2,222 / 3,000
“Of course they are canaries they always sing so much.” Yemir commented as Jorah quipped about their choice of metaphors, “After all if they aren’t canaries that are just used as prized pets or in the mines what else would you use to describe these fools.” She finished her comparison, now it was time to listen to the others and their opinions going forward. Jorah droned on about how well they did and how he wasn’t old and such typical old person thing to do of course then he pointed out they needed to make their way through an extremely narrow window and while looking at it and then looking over the group Yemir was very sure that the only person who could fit through it would be her, though the beansprout of a guy Mania could probably wiggle his way through it too.
Now the part of what information they would be looking for came out and it seemed that Jorah knew something about one of the older Vice Captains that had passed away many years ago from what Yemir could remember, A Silas Vermillion. The name rung a bell but not by much as Yemir was quite young compared to the rest of the group and didn’t really pay to much attention to deceased individuals especially Magic Knights. It seemed that people really enjoyed the more apt metaphor of the Magic Knights being Dogs of the Military then just pretty birds.
Luckily it seemed that everyone was able to make it through the opening without any issues though Yemir was sure she watched the others struggle a bit getting through it and definitely didn’t plan on poking fun at them at a later time once they had finished this task because for now she was in full work mode, alert to the sounds around her and making sure to move silently and smoothly. As they were now inside the restricted area it would turn into a fight if they were discovered and she was sure they wouldn’t be able to smoothly make it out the same way they came in, well maybe not the other two as she was more than able to move in and out of that opening without issue due to her short stature.
Mania had taken front peeking out of the utility room they had found themselves in and confirmed there were two guards making their rounds on the patrol route that Jorah had explained earlier. She waited patiently for the right moment and watching through the crack herself to find the next spot to move too. There just down the hall a bit and on the other side was another darken room and from what she was able to read it seemed it went to the archive room they were looking for. She wasn’t able to sense anything from the area besides the guards that were patrolling currently and since none of the signatures were coming from that area she waited till the two guards moved far enough from their position and made her advancement across the hall way and into the room which was simply a staircase that lead down deeper into the building. “Its clear here.” She signaled to the others, as long as she wasn’t visibly seen by anyone she was still hiding her presence and mana signature. Once everyone made it into the staircase she lead the way now to see how much farther they had to go till they reached the place talked about, not sensing anyone near the door she looked through the keyhole and not seeing anyone cracked it open to get a better view. It seemed this floor was a perfect circle with many chest high cabinets that looked to hold some type of documents. On the walls were maps and notes that looked like old war maps, this must have been the place they needed. She closed the door as she begun to pick up some signatures moving closer to them but not directly to them. “I can’t tell how many are in there or which ones it is but we should assume they would put the strongest at guard here or at least more then a couple.” She whispered to both Mania and Jorah making sure to be almost unbearably close to them as to make sure there wouldn’t be a chance of being overheard.
“Jorah you’re the strongest, I think you should take point and we will ghost you as needed.” Yemir suggested as while she normally didn’t like admitting that she was weaker then anyone she wasn’t stupid enough to let her meager pride to jeopardize a mission.
Post by Jorah Von Shurke on Nov 15, 2021 19:45:47 GMT -5
Rogues like their metaphorical endeavors was precisely correct. Jorah was actually thinking about that too. He was known more as the “gentleman rogue” throughout Clover and more often than not he was unsuspecting as it was because he walked without a need to be violent…what he did…he did in the name of necessity and to give children a better future…he was even hailed as a folk hero in some areas of the Forsaken Region. ”You aren’t wrong there, these so-called knights are more chatty than upscale women in a boutique shop looking at the same hat.” he said in response to both Mania and Yemir. He watched as both of them got into positions to move out to where they needed to go for the information.
If they were caught here…they might as well slit their own throats, and most people would wet themselves at the mere mention of infiltration at the Royal Capital…Jorah however was cautious, and cautious people…were perfectionists. With everything on the line here Jorah watched as Yemir and Mania moved silently, sticking to the shadows. He did the same…nimble movements from the lithe man with no wasted effort. He was a natural at this and it showed all the way to the window. Once inside the utility closet, Jorah aptly closed the window behind them and patched it softly; the locking slide was piled and kept up so the noise was barely there and to anyone not in the quiet room that the trio found themselves in…wouldn’t hear it. Then Mania would tell them about the guards ahead. Jorah almost reached instinctively for a broom or something heavy, but decided against it as the door outside shut and Yemir gave them the all clear. When they came out of the utility closet, Jorah noticed something, a cleaning cloth and chemicals that could remove paint, he looked around for a moment, noticing the fresh paint scent lingering on the shelves and he smiled before grabbing a spare cloth and the cleaning product. Yemir and Mania explored for a moment and figured out that their target was likely in the next room where the filings were. They would need to execute a plan quickly and get a move on. The longer they remained the greater the threat became. After hearing Yemir’s suggestion Jorah held out two pieces of cloth, one for each of them before pulling one for himself. ”Here is the plan…” He said as he then brought out the cleaning solution.
”The plan is to incapacitate them using the cleaning solution, grab them while they are unaware, if we can cause a small distraction and move around them that would be best. Follow my lead, and be sure to cover their mouth and nose...we will not win a contest of strength, so the only way for us to do this is quietly and using the terrain to our advantage. Once they are knocked out, we tie them up, and put them in the utility closet as we leave.” He then peeked into the next room, seeing the guards were talking, barely paying any attention to the surroundings, he motioned for Yemir and Mania to follow him as he quietly moved, slipping his shoes off before walking, his steps were silent now as the socks that covered his feet allowed his heel and toes to be padded.Once they were all in, he looked back and watched as the last person would close the door and he would motion to their shoes before getting to work. He snuck around, pouring some of the cleaning solution on the rag, soaking it and pocketing it. He moved between the rows of filing cabinets...the two magic knights laughed and talked about a Blue Rose knight that they both seemed to...have had relations with. These two were just using their status as royal guards more for their gain than for the actual protection of secrets. That is when he took out a pebble and threw it towards the baseboard towards the far part of the room. Hard enough that the wood would crack before signaling the other two to work together to subdue the other. Jorah moved forward as the two knights would split up, seeming to be on a somewhat alert level he heard one of them mention rats and waited till the other two could no longer be seen and then as the knight bent down to check on the pebble. Jorah jumped him, causing a small commotion, he hoped Mania and Yemir took the hint and they would take care of the other knight. Jorah watched as the knight tried to summon his grimoire, but it was quickly flung away and Jorah choked the man to make him inhale the chemicals until finally after ten seconds, he went limp. Jorah would then stand up and dust himself off before looking to the other position, hoping to not see the knight standing there still. He would then make a sharp, low whistle to signal the other rogues to him, a signal to bring the knight as well.
Once they were all united and the guards were placed in the utility room and tied up using rags and twine, he would lead Yemir and Mania back into the file room. ”Look for anything surrounding Silas Vermillion, Diamond War, Missions from the king, and even personal info or misdeeds. If there is one thing to trust in Clover...it is that the information network and how it is moved is quite extensive. Split up, and if you find anything at all...bring it to me.” He said before walking from the two towards the far end of the room, starting from the top and rifling through the finely kept drawer. It did not take him long to start finding inklings, Silas was a busy knight after all, and the things he did elevated him and the Vermillion family to new heights rather quickly, but even the brightest of lights cast shadow...and one such shadow was the cover up at Balgon...a prisoner riot occurred and several guards died, one such listed casualty was a man who was said to belong to a family that...appeared to be smudged out, as if it was ruined at some point earlier. There even mentions members of the Blake family or allies that were also apart of the riot and quelling the rioters. Excessive force, and a listed casualty of an inmate that was a noble...The same file also included an attack led by Silas and Zaven of the Crimson Lions and Golden Dawn respectively, no sanctions were given to the two as it was claimed to be self defense...with a major fight of about 100 mages near a port town that also seemed to be smudged out. ”My my...someone was a busy boy…” Jorah said with a light chuckle, the Vermillions were a...sore spot to say the least for the Von Schurke and one day he would have his revenge against those that caused his family ruin, but in order to that...he needed more power. The Eclipsed Ravens would offer that strength as long as he was able to succeed in this task that they were all given to do.
He would take the file before moving on, the cabinet was soon rifled through and things put back in place as if they had never been there...then again, at the end of all this it was likely that the kingdom would just place the capital on high alert and start cracking down on Rogues more...but they would not tell anyone why….why one may ask? It was simple...nobody wants to be seen as weak.
After a while they would be able to come back together and pass around the files for quick glance overs…”Alright it looks like this should be enough to defame a hero of the preshattered world as the magic knights like to call it. Let us make our way back out, and quietly...we do not want to be caught on our way out...like some ameteur thieves, we are in the Royal Capital after all.” Jorah said with a smile on his face as if this was all just some sort of fun game for him.
With the party of rogues melded with the shadows of the utility room, they were now in a restricted area. Getting caught here was likely to spell disaster for them. Yemir was first to exit the utility room, moving silently she was down the hallway out of sight. She would motion to both Mania and Jorah that the coast was clear, so Mania would follow, sticking low and to the darkness to avoid detection. Jorah would move next to the staircase and the three of them slipped down further with the guard's none the wiser to their infiltration. The gentleman rogue had stopped to grab something, but Mania was more occupied with searching their surroundings. If they were going to find the dirt they sought, this place would surely house such information. A plethora of cabinets lined the room in a circular formation with other things such as maps of other kingdoms and such.
Yemir's whispers would carve the tension inside the room, Mania turning his head back towards the group.
"I agree, what do you say Jorah?"
The rogue would chime in a low tone. Jorah would competently relay the plan to both Yemir and Mania, instructing them to incapacitate the guards with some paint cleaner solution he had swiped as they made their way through the compound. With Jorah taking point, Mania followed close behind like a shadow, his eyes on the distracted guards as they casually conversed amongst one another. The gentleman rogue prepared the rag and used a pebble to attract the guard's attention, breaking them from the conversation about a Blue Rose Magic Knight they had both seemed to be playing. Just more despicable guards whose morality bordered adjacent to that of the rogues and criminals they hunted. Confused, both the guards split to investigate, giving the party of rogues ample opportunity to thin their numbers through subterfuge.
Jorah acted quickly, with the skill of a professional who had seen and been through a number of things. The gentleman rogue leap as the guard reached inquisitively for the pebble. Grabbing the guard, he would place the spiked rag over his face before he could scream out. It didn't take long for the strength to leave the guard and his body fell limp from being knocked out. It was an interesting method Mania thought, taking mental notes of how the rogue operated. Mania had to admit, he liked the guy's style. Jorah was quick-witted, knowledgeable, and powerful, but he did not let his strength impair his judgment. The rogue didn't have the luxury to simply stand in awe and watch, he too would move, his own tainted rag in hand the rogue grabbed the other guard quickly. He was strong, but Mania had a good grip on him and soon he would go limp like his fellow guard.
A whistle echoed through the room, no doubt Jorah was giving them the signal. Mania was sure Yemir had taken care of her own guard, the girl though small was more than capable of delivering on her own share of the work. Reconvening with the others Mania would listen to Jorah. He wanted specific information on a Magic Knight named Silas Vermillion and anything useful that they could find. Mania silently nodded and went off on his own, noting the sleeping guards. It was almost child play how easily the group of rogues infiltrated the Archival building and even easier how the guards were so easily taken down. The rogue would smile as he headed down the opposite direction from Jorah and Yemir. He begins rifling through the documents, only glancing over the notes with a cursory look. There was plenty of stuff here that could cook the Magic Knights, but it was of little concern to Mania who was looking for anything related to the Magic Knight Silas Vermillion. If Jorah wanted that specific information the rogue would trust his judgment and deliver just that.
It didn't take too long for Mania to come across the name Silas Vermillion. Mania would grab the file and begin sifting through it. Apparently, Silas had destroyed an entire dungeon to kill a criminal, however, the man never offered compensation and justified it as a means to an end. That was good Mania thought, but he wanted something more. Something bigger and more audacious that would paint the Magic Knight as the villain. The rogue would hold onto the file, but he also continued searching until he came across one more file. Its contents were especially egregious given the position Silas held. Mania's lips spread into a wry, devilish smirk. "Just what I'm looking for~" This file held sensitive information on Silas who helped keep civilians inside of a shelter, but that was only the start.
Though they were silenced, they had witnessed the unjust murder of a civilian that was “supposedly” a diamond sympathizer. There was no justice at that moment, only a Magic Knight playing judge, juror, and executioner. A truly disgusting man who Mania thought believed himself to embody the law. It went without saying that they covered the whole thing up.
Greased the right hands, had the right connections.
With both files in hand, Mania sauntered back towards Jorah, his face that of a smiling fox. Jorah seemed to be in a great mood, a rare smile upon his face. Mania thought the gentleman rogue was warming up to him and Yemir finally, but they still had much more to do. Namely escaping without messing up what was shaping to be a clean run for the three rogues.
"Your among professionals~"
Mania would coolly state, waving the files he had brought as evidence of their exceptional work thus far.
"The Eclipse Ravens should eat up what we have for them. I don't think the world is ready for this revelation~"
Mania was feeling euphoric, which was a stark difference from how the day had started. A successful job always elicited such emotions from the rogue as he awaited the group to make their move back above ground. WC: 1,011 TWC: 3,233
There was a strange feeling building inside of Yemir’s chest and at the moment she wasn’t able to figure out what it was, but she knew that it was something that she needed to deal with as soon as possible and quickly getting this job done would be the best option. She listened to Jorah’s suggestion of using some of the paint thinner to knock them out by cover the guard’s mouth with a rag covered in it. It was a less violent way of doing things and that worked for Yemir since she wasn’t sure if she would be able to get away with taking the guards out with just her physical strength like last time. Once they were given the plan and needed stuff to complete it Yemir went her way to find her guard and just like she had earlier quickly wrapped her legs and arms around the guard in a flying bear hug covering the guard’s nose and mouth with the soaked rag and with all her strength kept it there on the guard. Things were going smoothly for her as the guard was slowly starting to pass out right up till the guard in a last ditch effort slammed her into the nearby wall, causing her head to smack into the wall, dazing her and causing her vision to go black for a moment, while she didn’t let go and the rag never moved from its position Yemir herself wasn’t feeling the best as the guard finally passed out. They both of them slid to the floor in a heap with one on top of the other.
“I’m going to need some rest after this.” Yemir said out loud or at least she thought she had said it out loud but to anyone close enough it would just sound like she was mumbling. She picked herself up off the ground stumbling a little bit as she stood up, passing through that moment she then went followed Mania and Jorah as they were going through the cabinets picking whatever information they could get their hands on about Silas Vermillion Yemir had decided that with how she was feeling and her slight staggering it would be best to simply go and tie up and gag the guards that had been knocked out and moved them out of sight of the doorway into the room to hopefully give them more time to escape. It seemed that Jorah and Mania had been able to find what they needed, and they were more then ready to trace back the way they came as long as nothing had changed in the guard’s routine, luckily it didn’t seem like any alarms or reasons for concerns had come up yet so any changes were unlikely. Yemir took point more to speed up her own escape and with her throbbing headache that seemed like something was trying to crave her brain in half she took things a bit slower than she normally would just to make sure she didn’t make any mistakes. Reaching to the top of the stairs she stopped once more to check the guard that had been roaming up here earlier and not seeing anyone, she simply slipped back into the utility room from earlier that they had been able to gain entry to thanks to the window that had been left unguarded and open.
“Alright not to much farther and we are out of here.” She said to no one in particular but once again unless someone was right next to her it would simply sound like mumbling of incoherent words. Something was wrong with Yemir that she hadn’t quite figured out or really noticed as she hadn’t noticed how she was speaking just yet but that would be a problem later on as she was still more then able to function as needed. Peeking out the window they had come in it looked like their luck was still holding on as she slipped out the window with ease due to her size though she had a close call on almost stumbling when it felt like her leg had gone numb but it was only for a moment. She continued to lead the group back the way they came and even right up next to where they had gotten their canary to sing earlier, for all intents and purposes it looked like they had succeeded in their endeavor of getting classified information on someone of great importance and it wasn’t to flattering to the deceased war hero or the Vermillion family that was basically a shadow of their former self from what she had been able to remember about the rumors of the family.
“Looks like we made it through that annoyance, lets make our way back to the agent and get done with this chore.” Yemir suggested to the other two as the pain in her head got worse causing her to wince physically as she talked. It really felt like her head was splitting in two and while she understood that she had been slammed into a wall by someone much bigger then her, it wasn’t the first time something like this had happened so she wasn’t sure why it was so much worse this time around. Once the pain subsided she would make her way farther through the town on the path to the meeting place that they had been told to go to once they had completed the task to report back to their client the weird Agent of Avarice person or whatever. Something inside Yemir was not looking forward to dealing with the sound of all the people that would be in that meeting place though she was seriously hoping that there wouldn’t be that many people there already though she had a feeling that their group while probably not the first ones done were definitely not going to be the last ones back.
“Ya know, I really thought this would have been so much harder then what we just went through given how many guards there was and how there was suppose to be such strong ones there. I do wonder how much was a test and how much was really our own ability given that at least two of the guards were suppose to be of like vice-captain ability and strength.” Yemir voiced her reasoning to the other two really confused how they didn’t come across them at all in their endeavor, “Maybe the guards just aren’t as strong or well-trained as most people were lead to believe.” She finished up saying as they reached the meeting place.
Post by Jorah Von Shurke on Nov 24, 2021 7:27:00 GMT -5
Their plan was executed perfectly and to the point where Jorah honestly thought of the people guarding the place…something was not right, they managed to knock out a few guards but soon someone was going to notice…especially since the dreaded tornado powerful guard they were told about did not make their debut yet. The gentleman rogue gathered the files as he stated previously and, as long as there were no complications or voiced opinions over the matter…the three would be ready to leave. Yemir was the first to head back to the route they came from and just as the two; Mania and Jorah would cross into the next room and into the storage area they were just in the door opened behind them into the next room. Jorah looked to Mania, Yemir had already made his escape and Jorah urged Mania to do the same as the man in the other room began to look around before calling out the names of the two guards that were supposed to be there in the room.
They needed out now.
Hopefully Mania took the hint and escaped as Jorah was quick to do the same, bringing up the rear as he made sure to move along the walls and avoid the lights and patrols. It was not long after when he felt the mana connection being severed to his spells for the guards inside that he had restrained. ” The jig is up, we must head for the sewers if we are to escape the Royal Capital…come along I’ll lead the way…and I’ll pay for your rooms at the inn to bathe after.”. As soon as they left the campus the sound of boots hitting the cobblestone could be heard echoing as the guards now moved to lock down the archives and the area surrounding it. The plan went down without much issue so Jorah found it to be a widely successful job that only the most skilled would be able to accomplish unless they had a more favorable support or were powerful enough to take down the guards without suspension…a task he was hoping to one day be able to accomplish.
It did not take long for the three to make it through their sewer trip…as long as he was followed he did not put up much of a fuss as the nature of the job needed them to exercise extreme caution. ”thank you both for accompanying me on this job, I will see to it that you are both adequately rewarded for your endeavors..” that was when Yemir spoke up about the powerful guards that they somehow were able to miss and Jorah nodded with affirmation. ”We should count our lucky stars that our Rougish actions were not seen by that guard while we were around…I do not know if either of you caught it, but the lockdown was swift after we narrowly made our escape. Overall I count this as a win for the little guys…us over all. And we will be able to use our combined efforts to see what this little group has to offer us.” he said with a smile before leading them back to a nearby inn…they had nearly two hours before the turn in time anyway, he paid their rooms and then handed them both a set of keys. ”rooms paid for by the VS Orphanage…I’ll see you both at the meeting in an hour…do not be late.”. He said before dismissing himself so he could clean himself before the meeting…
He dressed appropriately, this time making sure his clothing was a little bit more “blending in” as it were
Everything unfolded with a mechanical precision that Mania could not deny. Their plan, their execution was flawless the rogue thought as the trio made their silent escape. Back up the stairs and down the shadowed hallway Mania and others would slip back into the supply closet unnoticed. Once back outside where the air was fresh Mania would take a deep, long breath. He noticed Yemir looked somewhat off but the rogue couldn't place exactly what it was. He would bury his concern as she chimed in on the events that unfolded within the past hour. It was incredibly easy he mused, perhaps too easy as the detail that was working the Archival district had been lackluster, to say the least.
"I'm not complaining."
Mania would shrug, a fox-like smile upon his visage.
"Bastards probably never thought we'd have the audacity to break in. Now, they'll learn to regret underestimating us."
Fetching a cig from his pocket Mania would spark it and breath in the tobacco before exhaling. Jorah would suggest they make for the sewers, Mania would not complain, though he wasn't entirely sure if he actually wanted to skulk about the underground like a vampire hiding from the light. He didn't have much of a choice and besides Jorah would provide them with a room and shower. Following the gentleman rogue underground through the muck of the sewer, it was a short journey until finally the three of them would surface. Never had Mania wished to take in the fresh air above more than now. They all had reeked, but at least they had gotten away like ghosts in the night he mused. Jorah thanked both Mania and Yemir and even offered to reward them for their services, albeit them all standing to gain something in the process.
"Thanks Jorah, but as future brothers and sisters of the Eclipse Ravens I think we all gain what it was we sought. However... I'll take you up on that offer, just buy me a drink and one of those fine cigars. We'll toast to a new friendship. "
Mania would speak coolly, smiling at Jorah as he looked about the area to see just where it was they had emerged from. Mania had noticed the guard Jorah spoke of, but he did not think they had narrowly escaped the lockdown. They were lucky, but sometimes lady luck smiled upon the little guys in the world. Mania would follow the gentleman rogue and Yemir back to the inn where he paid for their rooms. They had about roughly two hours or so until they needed to be back at that bar so he would take his time and shower. Allowing the water to run through his soft hair, Mania would replay today's events in his head. The young rogue couldn't shake the bad feeling he had gotten from Yemir. Though it was very subtle he could sense something was wrong with the young girl, but he was sure she would deny it should he ask.
Pushing those idle thoughts of bad luck away Mania exited the shower and dressed in new, albeit similar clothes. Jorah was truly an influential individual. The gentleman rogue had pull and reach that far outstretched what Mania had first imagined. He considered himself quite lucky to have the chance to work with a person such as him. Hopefully, they would be doing more work together Mania thought as he sat on the edge of the bed, lighting another cig. That bad feeling he had about Yemir came creeping back into his mind as if willed into existence. Like a premonition Mania couldn't help but ponder upon it, unsure if it was just his imagination or truly something much more sinister. He didn't know Yemir long, but the two of them had a somewhat storied history together. Completing quite a few tasks together, the rogue was sure he had a solid grasp of how the young girl operated.
So when he noticed her sluggish movements and the pain hidden behind her specious poker face he felt a deep twisting sensation in the pit of his stomach. A deep pull of his cig and Mania would rub his tired eyes. They still had a short journey back to the bar Mania thought, pushing himself off the bed he would exit the room and meet back up with Jorah and Yemir who should have been finished by now. Once back with the party of rogues Mania would regard Yemir with a nod and wave to Jorah as they would make their way out of the inn and back to the bar. Dark thoughts still lingered in Mania's mind as they begin walking, but this time for sure he would bury the dark notion. He just had to pray it was just his psychosis at play. Never before had he wished such a thing to be truer than now? [EXIT]
