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Post by Kari Muffin on Nov 16, 2010 15:07:04 GMT -5
Rosewood was starting to like Arkady. He was quiet, cute, and well mannered. He certainly deserved the mark that was on his chest. Considering how young he was he was probably born with it., but he could have easily been an over achiever.
The swan smirked a bit when the cat choked on his cider.
Though the more the feline talked, the less interest the swan held in him. He sipped his own drink again as he listened to the cat continue to speak. As charming as he was, the swan was far from impressed. He wasn't about to expose Rogers to a potential threat. For all he knew this cat could be a serial killer. Though he hardly had any of the markers for such a thing, anything was possible in this world.
"I don't think Rogers keeps in close contact with his family," The swan said as he waved the bartender for another drink. The Villa was going to have to kiss his sweet ass and then some if he wanted to get anywhere near Rogers with his help. And it was a very slim that it would happen considering the way the swan had been treated earlier.
He turned to the Solandrian, "So, have you been to the city before?"
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Post by Lucca on Nov 16, 2010 15:33:24 GMT -5
Though Arkady had indeed been born with his King Rank, if he had been born lower he probably would have Ranked up, just to be able to protect his twin better. He was never going to be a Queen though. Queens were leaders, and Arkady knew that, whatever else he might become, a leader was never it. He'd rather have someone a bit wiser than he making the decisions, and Arkady would be there to back them up. Even if he felt the things those he cared about wanted were often dangerous, the Coyote had vowed to stick by them.
That had included this trip to the Capital, not that he actually realized he had anything to fear for it. He felt guilt rise up again for the way he'd gotten separated from his family. How could he protect them when he didn't even know where they were? His ears twitched, only half paying attention now to the conversation between Rosewood and Farran. Apparently this "Rogers" wasn't very close with his family. That was sad. But wait, didn't Farran know the name of the uncle, too, if that was the friend of the family? He wondered if it would be rude to ask that.
Probably.
He pawed at his cider mug, not sure what to do. Until, of course, he was asked another question. He didn't mind, though. It was far easier to answer questions than try to start a conversation himself. He shook his head. "Not since I was too little to really remember it," he admitted. What few memories he had of the visit were nothing like this.
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Post by Nathalia on Nov 16, 2010 16:44:29 GMT -5
((As they continue to speak, an odd wraith-like creature will begin to appear to Rosewood and no one else.
It resembles a Villa creature...possibly a Bipedal Feline...with his head nearly hacked in half...
It stands ominously, neck twisted at a bizarre angle behind Farran...always pointing directly at Rosewood's heart.
It does not make sound and is usually visible every 15 minutes for about 30 seconds.
In the meantime, an odd sensation has begun to grip all three of them; a sense of dire fear bubbling lightly at the backs of their minds as they begin to notice the extreme lack of people anywhere except for the bars and pubs...
The air becomes thick with heavy spices that none can place.
What is going on?
Your goal is to locate the bar called the "Fallen Wing" in town; they will feel inexplicably drawn to it. Once outside, have them locate the odd sound of mewling and groaning...it should lead them to a sack tied up out behind the dingy bar...))
~Nathalia
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Post by Callypso on Nov 17, 2010 1:41:55 GMT -5
Farran turned back to his mug of cider, just barely managing to not roll his eyes as he brought the cup to his lips. Of course, the swan had just been pretending to be even remotely interested in what he had to say. It would figure that one of the few people he had run into and knew the person he sought would also be the least likely to assist him in any way. Well, that was just great.
The feline had pondered asking the swan what had crawled up his ass and died, but he didn’t think that would help him on his quest. Maybe holding his tongue for once would actually give him an edge, but he sincerely doubted anything he might say to the Tulgey would change his mind. Still, it seemed really unfair that after all he had been through he’d be denied the one shot he was given to actually achieving his goal. Total. Bullshit.
He entertained himself the best he could, considering the Solandrian wasn’t very talkative and the swan had essentially written him off. He started feeling twitchy and the longer they stayed in the bar, the more time he lost trying to find Rogers on his own. When he thought he could sit no longer, Farran pushed his mug away and turned to face Rosewood and Arkady.
Well, Mr. Rosewood, thanks for all the help, but if there’s no chance of you introducing me to your husband, then we’d better be on our way. We still have to find Arkady’s family and it’s getting late. I might end up having to escort him back to the Court if they’ve turned in for the night. How much do I owe for the cider and towels?
He reached for his coin purse and stared at it as though seeing it for the first time. The Villa had just had an idea, and though it was probably a last-ditch effort, he’d be the greater fool for not trying. It had been a slow night for the swan, right? Maybe some material persuasion could convince Rosewood to help him out? Even just a little? Sure, it was kind of a lame attempt at persuasion, but he had to use all the tricks up his sleeve before calling it quits...
Are you sure Rogers hasn’t any interest in his family?
He let the coin purse drop to the counter with a very audible THUD.
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Post by Kari Muffin on Nov 17, 2010 12:45:03 GMT -5
Arkday was quite quiet, but it was a nice change from most of the babbling clientele that he had to deal with. He quietly finished off his drink and looked to the feline when he began to speak.
Why couldn't children kiss people's asses properly these days? He found himself smirking slightly as he the Villa spoke. Did he honestly expect him to give up information about his husband for money? That was almost an insult. The swan opened his mouth for a reply, and promptly let out a surprised honk when he saw something appear from thin air next to the Villa.
A very dead and almost beheaded Villa. He had seen plenty of horrible things back when he used to live in Tulgey, but this was something that topped his metaphorical cake. His glass bounced off of the counter top when he let it go in surprise.
The image disappeared just as fast as it materialized.
The swan collected himself as quickly as possible. Clearing his throat and brushing his vest down. "I would never give up my husband for money, Mr. Farran. And if you choose to put a title to my name Doctor is far more appropriate." He slowly slipped off of the chair. What was that feeling he was starting to feel in the back of his mind? He tried to brush it off as he stood. "I'm going to be accompanying you on your little outing. If you turn out to be a safe individual for my husband to meet, then I'll arrange something for you."
In reality he just needed to get out of the strip club. His shift wasn't quite over, but Suits, the boss would suck it up. He waved the bartender over and whispered something in his ear. The man gave him a look of mild disbelief before departing.
"And Arkady's siblings probably haven't left him stranded in the city, so let's go on a little outing, shall we?" He would lead the way out onto the street, if the Villa liked it or not he was sticking around. That vision wasn't normal, and as terrifying as it was if it was hovering around someone who wanted to know his beloved Rogers, he had an obligation to stick around.
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Post by Lucca on Nov 17, 2010 15:44:56 GMT -5
Arkady found himself more and more relaxed in the presence of the Swan. Despite his bad experience with Tulgies in the past, this one certainly seemed like a very nice individual, and he was very grateful to have met both him and Farran today, a day where he certainly needed a few more friends.
But as his time in the club went on, Ark started to feel a little...twitchy, perhaps? There was something at the back of his mind...some impulse that he should move on. He tried to ignore it, because he really didn't want to go back out on the streets with the cold wind and the weird voices and the spicy smell (oh yeah, and the potentially dangerous Hearts Noble). It was safe here. So why did he feel so uneasy? He finished off his mug of cider and was about to possibly see if he he could get another one when Farran said...oh. Right.
He still hadn't found his family. He nodded and hopped off the bar stool. How late was it? Oh, he really hoped it wasn't dark outside already...it had been creepy enough earlier! At least he wouldn't be alone. He started and jumped into the air as Rosewood suddenly let out a loud honk. "What?" he asked, looking up at the Swan in alarm. And apparently now he was coming with them. Well, that was good...there was always safety in numbers, after all.
Taking a deep breath and reminding himself that this was all for the sake of his family, Arkady followed Rosewood out into the cold, spicy air of the Capital.
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Post by Callypso on Nov 17, 2010 16:17:51 GMT -5
Woah, he hadn’t quite expected that response. The smirk the swan had worn just a minute ago had been far more predictable than the honk and terror that had overcome the man. Farran’s polite grin faltered briefly. The man looked like he had seen a ghost! He laughed nervously and took a few coins from his pouch and laid it on the bar, since the man’s surprise had evidently prevented him from answering his question about the cider. Dr.? What the hell kind of doctor worked in a strip club?? Unless he was on on-site physician or something? Weird.
Well then, Dr. Rosewood, relax. I just wanted a meeting with your husband, not his immortal soul. Ha ha... aheam... May I ask what you practice?
He laughed nervously again and put his coin pouch back around his waist. Perhaps offering money had gone too far? The Villa knew the gesture was a bit inappropriate – Rogers was Rosewood’s husband after all, but he hadn’t known what else to do. “Kissing ass” had not even occurred to Farran – he’d never had to do it before. It was the privilege of coming from a well-to-do family and the unfortunate side-effect of being rather spoiled. He was, however, aware of the concept of “quid pro quo”, and if money didn’t work this time, maybe being politely interested in the bird would? (Oh, if only he knew how closely the two concepts resembled each other!)
Farran raised his eyebrow at the swan’s declaration. Why on earth would he want to spend more time with them? He hadn’t exactly expressed a fondness for him. He cracked his neck, aware of a strange prickling, uneasy sensation at the back of his neck. It was very important that he get out in the open, anywhere, really, to walk. The strip club suddenly seemed hot, stifling and uncomfortable.
I greatly appreciate the offer, even if means I am on trial for the moment. It’s all I wanted, really, besides getting my friend home, so thank you. Speaking of, I’m sure Arkady will appreciate the extra help. He looked over at the canine, who looked surprised but please.
After you then, Dr. Rosewood?
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Post by Kari Muffin on Nov 17, 2010 17:39:58 GMT -5
"Psychology. Clinical and Counseling are my specialties. Though I studied a bit in Forensic psychology extensively in college, despite not being able to major or minor in the field," He said automatically in response to the question. He had explained it several times to a few of his coworkers, and a few of the people who like to actually know about the person who gave them a strip tease.
The swan was already out the door when the Feline had opened it. He was assaulted by the scent of strong spices. He brushed his beak in protest. What the hell was going on here? Where was everyone? He started to lead the way down the street, not particularly sure where they were going. "We can check some of the usual heavy trafficked areas for your family Mr. Arkady...." He he swallowed the lump that was forming in his throat.
This was all unnerving. And he didn't like it. The only lights that seemed to be on were the pubs and bars. The streets were empty.
He periodically glanced at the cat, and every so many minutes that Rosewood didn't want to count the monstrous thing would reappear. The boys didn't notice. Which probably meant he was hallucinating. Even so every time the thing showed up his feathers were ruffled awkwardly.
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Post by Lucca on Nov 17, 2010 22:38:15 GMT -5
Arkady looked up at Rosewood as he listed off all these big words about what he did for a job and what degrees he had. Wow, he sounded like he must be really smart to have studied all that! He might have said as much if he wasn't being distracted by the return of the voices whispering to him on the cold wind the moment he stepped outside the door. Great, just great. He shivered a bit as the wind hit his already wet fur, but it was more a reflex than anything else. He didn't really feel cold, persay.
He nodded to Rosewood and started to walk down the street as well, trying his best to ignore the voices. If possible, the streets seemed even more deserted than they had before. It was...decidedly creepy. And after having visited the Tulgey and being attacked there, Arkady thought he had a pretty good idea of what 'creepy' was. He made sure to time his steps to be a bit closer to his companions. The noise of their footsteps on the cobblestones in an even beat made him feel a tiny bit better. Just a tiny bit.
Arkady frowned slightly. He just had this...this -feeling- about where they should go. Like a certain direction seemed to stand out more than the others. The smell of spice also seemed stronger in that direction, but he had no idea what to make of that. He wondered if he should voice this...instinct, before he noticed that was the way the Swan had turned anyway. Well...good.
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Post by Callypso on Nov 18, 2010 0:00:12 GMT -5
The moment the trio exited the bar the scent of spices descended upon them like a fog. It seemed heavier than before, but maybe it was because this time the feline had expected it? No, no it really was stronger. He was so floored by strange smells and how the empty streets seemed more ominous, the darkness more oppressive that he didn’t give much more than a passing thought, weird, to Rosewood’s stated profession.
If this was what it was like earlier, Farran wasn’t sure how he had missed it before meeting up with Arkady. Finding Rogers had seemed so important then, the need to locate him fueling his rage and urgency, but now… There was something immeasurably wrong about the city. Farran’s skin prickled and the nagging, uncomfortable feeling at the back of his neck refused to go away. He could feel the fur on the end of his tail starting to poof out, though he tried desperately to suppress his fear. The feline eased his steps to match in time with Arkady's and walked as close to him as possible without touching him. It was a small measure of comfort in the cold, distant city that seemed to surround them without end.
Rosewood didn’t seem to be faring much better, either, as his feathers poofed out every 15 minutes or so. It was downright odd, he thought, even for a bird.
Dr. Rosewood, are you all right?
They seemed to be perusing the streets haphazardly, and the Villa began to doubt the swan had any place particular in mind. He kept his mouth shut, merely glad to be moving. Moving was good. He didn’t know why, but he felt like he was still supposed to do something, though he didn’t know what. Find Arkady’s family, maybe? That didn’t feel right, either, so he marched along with the others, waiting for a sign, another Card, something…
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