RP:Island Adventures II
Part of the Tales from the Row Arc
Synopsis: Intelligence points the runner and his crew to Selen Island as the location where the Razor has stashed their stolen contraband. After sailing from Rynvale and weathering a storm, the group lands on the island and fans out to search for the Razor’s trail, leading to a number of adventures.
Characters: Finn, Terra, Kirikae, Domastine, Alaine, Shale, Miya, Grot, Hanan.
Location: Cenril; Selen Island.
TERRA ENCOUNTERS THE SPECTRE…
Terra had every intention of being back at the proper time, as ordered. That's why she found herself hiking back with the elf captain in silence since neither seemed inclined to conversation. Some might think it was a result of nearly drowning in pools of sand but more than likely it's because she doesn't deem grunts and scowls as proper response so she'll save that breath for the next step instead. Their surrondings, despite having seen them on the first walk-through, don't appear to be all that familiar. She's too distracted. There's this distinct feeling of being ...watched? Was Grot's crew closer than anticipated, lurking in the undergrowth in preperation for an ambush? Posed atop that rock she would halt, taking the pause as a chance to study what parts of the island she could see from here.
Sneaking onto the island revealed itself to require much more creativity than making his way aboard Hanan's ship. Just a shimmer, the cloaked spectre had needed to climb down onto one of the rowboat and hang off of the side until the last of the remaining crew would row ashore. After landing, he needed to remain as still as he could admidst the crashing waves until none were around. He was constantly grateful for the swimming costume that had been tailored for him. With no leads as to the whereabouts of any of the crew, he set off across the mangrove beach and towards the eastern mountains. There was no specific reason for this, but he concluded that the jungle would require the most time to explore and therefore was left for last. Swift feet carried him safely through the swamps and dangerous pools of quicksound. How odd that as he traversed these dangers, there came a constant though to the spectre that he would need to make sure that the artificer would not fall into such traps herself. The twisted trees that lined the mountain path served their purpose well, offering an alternate route of travel instead of the main path. Olive eyes behind a pristine white masked watched a pair of figures approaching. That there was only two of them gave him enough reason to cease his own exploring, and follow.
Terra had been encouraged to move again when Kirikae gave her a look that spoke volumes. She'd rather not risk his ire when there's so many places for him to try and get dispose of her body, blaming it on an element of nature in the process. It only takes a step or two and she'd glance towards the line of trees again in order to find out the source of her unease. Was it simply because this place hadn't been the place of fond memories? Or because there really was something out there? She'd be the first to stray from the path, quiet enough not to bring attention to herself as she moved towards the line of foilage, further away from the twisted rocks and roots that had been their source of footing. Muddy boots slid slightly on the wet grass and despite being closer to Domastine's current hiding, he was still hidden as he had intended... but was that a glimpse of white? A bird or...?
Domastine held his cloak to even keep the slightest shimmer of the shrouding enchantment from revealing his location to the vampiress as she suddenly drew closer towards his general direction. It was not she he worried from, but from the captain. The distinct lack of a longbow on the halfling's back gave him a measure of relief, but he rather not risk an engagement on an island he was vastly outnumbered on. It would seem, however, that Kirikae did not even notice that the vampiress had seperated from him. No sexist or crude remark was heard as the half elf continued along the path back towards the swamp. This left only Terra with him. Nevertheless, he remained silent. If need be, he could restrain her, but only if she drew closer before being discovered.
Terra reached out to move some of the lower branches out of the line of her sight, still moving in towards the outskirts of the forest that surronded the low mountains. Everything seemed quiet in this little section of the island. Shouldn't there had been more sounds of scuttering critters, cawing birds? Where had the noise gone..? She is still operating under the belief that there is something here, maybe multiple things, and she'd eventually push her way through so that even if Kae had happened to notice that she had trailed away (something she was warned against several times over) he wouldn't be able to spot her on their walking path. Head turned upwards she'd scan the canopy for the initial sign of life. This, surprisingly, was more her element. Another step in and she may have already started to go beyond the light figure that lurked at the edge.
Domastine assured himself that she would not be able to detect him, cloak all but rendering him invisible and a strange oderless perfume erasing his scent. Still, she walked closer towards him. His gloved fingers tensed and relaxed beneath his cloak, preparing in case of swift action. Her body language conveyed her curiosity. He might have been the reason for her to begin moving towards his location, but she was obviously unsure of just what she hoped to find. His body was still, but his eyes roamed and focused on every detail he could discern from her as the vampire moved. She was close enough to him that he could make out the slight change in her pupils as her attention shifted and refocused else where. A step further and her back was to him, the locks of her hair swishing. Taking a chance, he moved. A hand wrapped around her mouth, his elbow against the small of her back and a knee pressed lightly against the back of her leg. It would be too easy to drop her, but it was not his desire. "Struggle and you will leave me no choice," the haunting voice suddenly whispered to her ear, though nothing said about what he would be forced to do if she did not cooperate, "It is not my desire to bring any harm to you, please."
Terra : Was there anything more frustrating in the world than allowing someone to get the drop on you? In that moment Terra is convinced that no, there is not. Not to mention it's entirely humiliating. Where the hell had Kae gone off to? Was this one of Grot's men? Initial reaction is to struggle, her elbow already angling itself towards the side of his body when that hauntingly familiar voice encouraged otherwise. He would feel the nod against his hand and the sudden release in coiled muscles as the instinct to fight diminished. Both of her hands were held evenly before her, fingers splayed in the typical gesture of surrender and would remain so until he gave her release. What she would do after that is still entirely unknown, even to her mind as it raced with the possible outcomes of this situation.
Domastine kept the palm of his hand over her mouth, though his leg and other arm relaxed to allow her body to readjust. His hand at last slipped away while he turned to stand directly in front of her. The cloak's ability dissipated slightly, his appearance resembling more closely to their encounter beneath the fruit trees in Rynvale. "Oranges in the middle of the night. Now alone on a hostile island. Will you give me a truthful answer about your business this time?" the voice behind the mask uttered steadily.
Terra found her footing again when the pressure was eased off the back of her leg. One shoulder rolled backwards, that arm still sore from her last encounter on this island. Was this just another trap? His face gave away nothing in all its blank, smooth glory and she found herself envious of that for just a moment as she watched him. "I'm not alone." That's the truth. Well, for the most part because at that very moment in time she had become just that. "Will you give me a truthful answer about yours?" Her voice isn't nearly as steady, more of a challenge.
Domastine replied, "Obviously, though your companion will not be happy, whether or not you had stayed with him." The lack of emotion to his words gave a wide array of guesses as to how it would have sounded had another person said it. Was he teasing her about the captain's regards to her or simply being curt about her answer? He was still, easily passing for a statue to the untrained eye. Keeping to a sense of balance when at all possible, he answered back with his own rather cryptic response, "Previously enjoying the company of another." The statement was not allowed to be process by the vampire for more than a moment before he questioned further, "What is your group doing here?"
Terra chose not to read too much into that remark and let it go, watching him with that same curious expression that he had witnessed on their previous encounter. Was this one planned? How else would a run-in happen miles and oceans away from their last? There was an actual answer and her mouth had already started to open to question it when he shot another her way and obligation caused her to answer. "Searching for something that got lost. You.. followed us here." It's said slowly as she tried to work it over in her head. Could he swim that far? She had not seen another vessel near there's and someone, especially the seasoned captains, would have noticed the arrival of any type to the island. "Why?"
Domastine voiced his answer without even his cloak shifting, "Yes." He had followed them, but it was more apt to say that he had stowed away mid transit. "Information," he stated afterward when the true question was spilled out from the vampiress. It was the same general response he had given to the artificer. As he had said to the elven woman the previous night, he also admitted to the vampire, "I wish to know just what this thing that was lost is." He also wanted to know just what else Finn's operations entailed, but that was left unsaid. "What did Finn lose?" he asked, admitting that he knew that the red-head was the mastermind behind all of this as well that the spectre knew the Runner's true name.
Terra might have been better able to respond if he had been anything but honest. When he's willing to answer the questions she posed, it made it harder to ignore him and just walk off. Then again, she can't even see Kirikae between the thin lines that the trees provided of the path outside of this and that thought caused her to frown. Had the bastard left her? Stranded with ... a ghost who seemed keen on following them about? "Do I look like I know all the details to this?" Her lips dipped into a frown before she sighed. What could she tell him that he didn't already know? Wouldn't have found out, otherwise...? "Don't know where Finn is. We're looking for a wagon of supplies. Seen any while you were creeping about?"
Domastine looked over her shoulder, lest the captain suddenly decide that he would rather not risk Finn's ire for abandoning the vampire. When no sign of the halfling could be detected, he at last answered, "No." A wagon of supplies? That was rather incredulous, unless it was true. A missing wagon meant either a base here and was lost to the environment, or stolen by others. It fit well with Alaine's information, lending more credibility. Thieves stealing from thieves. Wonders never ceased, but he was definitely one to talk. "Who stole this wagon, and what are the supplies?"
Terra ran a messy hand that was caked in mud and sand through her hair though it was likely done out of nerves than any need to look remotely presentable. Such a thing didn't exist out here. "Since you know Finn and all, maybe you should ask him these questions." Her arms crossed over her torso then in a gesture that would imply a certain level of stubborn refusal to continue this game. "It's better to get your answers from the source. The rest of us could all be lying."
Domastine simply said while raising a hand with outstretched fingers to list off, "I would, if I knew where he was, though not even you know this. He may not be as open to speak to a complete stranger, as you are." And Alaine. "You could be lying, but what would be the point in it? I could easily have killed you and chose not to even if you had decided to struggle." There was a frightening sincerity to the soulless voice that came from behind the mask. Even now, his body language, or rather the clear lack of it, gave the impression that even now he could slit her throat in a single breath.
Terra had been left in the middle of a forest on a random island for a cause that she didn't even fully understand. And now, now she's stuck with a ghost for company, one that seemed to delight in asking questions that she had no answers for. Lips pressed again and she'd look his way once more, after a silent conversation with the forest floor. "I'm not just some fragile elf you've found in the forest, Ghost. I'm not going to be goaded into fearing you nor answering you." That, if nothing else, would convey that she had decided to not ask any more questions nor answer them in return. "You shouldn't be here."
Domastine said to her, in an emotionless chide between her usual beautiful appearance in the Barrel and the fact that her hair was mess, "Nor you." The cloak suddenly began to ungulf his figure, fading his body out of view with the mask the last to disappear.
Terra muffled a profanity uttered at his disapperance. Was the bastard an actual ghost? And if so, why did she have to be haunted by the creepy, no-face type? That deadline was rapidly approaching with the sun setting in the horizon and she turned to step out of the line of the forest only to realize that still had a nice hike to go, and little time. Let's hope her sense of direction is spot on or she'd be wondering for awhile...
THE SPECTRE AND THE FOX…
Domastine had found his encounter with Terra not as fruitless as he would have initially believed. Despite his sudden disappearance from her, he remained at the heels of the vampire and captain on their descent back to the swamps. As the pair left from the mountains, it could only be concluded that there was nothing of interest to either them, or him up there. This left only the jungle to investigate. The swamps were much to dangerous for even the most daring of rogues to think of hiding supplies in that hostile area. No amount of gold was worth the chance of being swallowed whole by simply digging in the wrong place. As he entered the thicker vegetation, a leather shape was barely made out in the distance entering the jungle. Only one figure? That alone was enough to peak his curiosity as he followed the trailing leather duster that seemed to beckon him onward along the jungle trail.
Alaine had been wandering about the island, following the examples of the other search parties, though the artificer had daringly went alone. All the other crew members had formed their groups, and though the fox had literally dragged Lita from her bed, the seductress had refused to go along; apparently, she still hadn't been feeling well after their sea venture aboard the ship. And so, the elf found herself alone, searching for anything that may be of significance to the retrieval of their missing items. Leather duster swayed about slender form as booted-steps carried her through the breathtaking, but still somehow eerie surroundings, the world hidden by a green veil of plant-life and algae. Slender fingers tossed one of the twin steel daggers nearly always at hand, seeking some amusement as gaze constantly scanned the surroundings to try and catch information, something the artificer always loved to do.
Domastine had followed the elf closely enough in Rynvale that her outline was unmistakeable to him now as he closed the distance to her. The heavy vegetation and foliage was perfect for him to slip beside her unnotice. The humidity brought wisps of steam and moisture to rise from various exotic plants, only adding to the shimmering effect of his cloak if he had decided to use it. He did not. Against better judgement, he made his movements heard, heavy steps crunching twigs and fallen vines to alert Alaine to a presence behind her. Such loud noises could easily lead to the conclusion that it was someone following after but not wishing her harm. An assassin wouldn't be so stupid as to reveal their presence still so far from her. For once, he found himself cursing his usual habit of not asking for names from those he questioned. He had no name to call her and so his own greeting was a soft and short whistling sound similar to the song he played for her in her chambers. If she would turn, she would see his white clad figure merely walking casually towards her.
Alaine kept walking, despite the audible footsteps slowly approaching her in the distance, though not a grand one. Whoever it was would be kept a keen ear on until they made some indication that they desired the elf's attention. Sure enough, not seconds later, a whistle chimed through the emerald maze, form turning with a single pivot on her heel. "You again." She had already been aware of the identity of her tracer, the whistle a dead giveaway, though she also knew he intended to let his presence be known; an assassin of his finesse would find no difficulty in remaining a simple branch or another colorful creature roaming the tree tops. "Didn't you get enough of my all last night?" Wording hadn't been thought out, so a chuckle was sent through her psyche, though it wouldn't be made audible; expression remained composed and waiting for his reply, despite the comical inquiry with a double-interpretation.
Domastine said to her in his usual emotionless voice, "Obviously not." A quip was added further, "Would you still be asking if I had shared your bed, rather than your floor?" The spectre was obviously capable of humor, or at least more direct teasing, apparently. He continued walking towards her, but there was a more normal gait to his steps, no longer the overly cautious and purposeful walk that was more common among those that lead lives in stealth. "You are seeking your groups missing supplies as well?" he abruptly asked, possibly to her surprise that he knew what the purpose of this voyage. Before she could reply, however, he raised his hand to pause the elf, "I have already spoken to another of your crew, and no, I did not harm her."
Alaine allowed him to finish his thoughts before she would raise any premature accusations; wouldn't want to grant him a brow quirk for just anything. "Another of our crew?" The artificer took a moment of reflection, trying to recall the other females aboard. There weren't many, most of Captain Hanan's crew consisting of burly sailor lads; perhaps she was sexist? I high possibility, despite herself being one of the few, if not only woman captain in their area. "Oh? Did she feed you good information then?" Judging by the knowledge he had already displayed that was apparently attained by the mystery woman, Alaine didn't doubt that he was aware of more. To be sure, she felt as though it was her duty to uncover what the other member had divulged to the outsider.
Domastine turned his head away, seemingly looking towards the heavy canopy that all but obscured all light from penetrating to the jungle floor, "No more information than you yourself had given me." No emotion, but devil be damned if she could not almost imagine a face being the mask smirking smuggly. In further chiding, he added, "I did not ask to stay in her room, however, nor did I find her with only a towel about her." It added a certain level of tension that whatever awkwardness had occured between them in their encounters was between them alone. "Do you believe you will find whatever it is they are searching for here?" he asked suddenly, a complete turn from wherever the conversation might have been leading. It would be up to Alaine which course along the fork she chose to keep their talks in, or take a different path altogether.
Alaine :: "Let's say I had gone swimming," the artificer suddenly drawled, keeping their pace and apparently choosing a different path altogether. "And I was drowning." Sterling hues glanced up to the mask now walking steadily beside her, expression showing evidence of the subtle mischief with a lighthearted tone accented with a hint of whimsy, simply playing this game for purposes of innocent amusement. "Would you save me? And why?" The elf abruptly stopped in her tracks, leather duster flurrying with the rapid halt as she reached out to place a warm hand 'pon his shoulder, gently tugging at it in signal for him to stop and turn as well. "And please don't give say you would pull me up just to pick my pockets or question me for more information." Sterling gaze softened, looking to him with some sort of hidden signal, the question suddenly taking on a new meaning, "Really answer…"
Domastine began to answer even before she stopped to pull at him, "Yes." There was no faltering to his resolution. The why came to the spectre as he turned to face her. This time he did not refuse her contact, as he usually had when the elf took it upon herself to poke and prod him. Her hand remained on his shoulder and he could feel a gentle warmth seeping through the material of his cloak and suit. "I would not steal from you. I am not a thief," he said before addressing her other concern with a question of his own, "Would you think less of me if I said I would want more information once I was assured you would survive?" His arm curved up, gloved hand resting on the one that held him before ensnaring it in his own, "I would ask if you chose to drown in order for me to save you." The hold on her hand tightened ever so slightly before the voice behind the faceless mask continued speaking, "I would also ask more about yourself, elf."
Alaine remained still as her hold was enveloped by a gloved hand, sterling gaze fixed upon his own; eyes couldn't help but shift to their mild embrace, idly wondering what spark might rise with direct skin-on-skin contact for once. "You can, if you'd like…" After his responses to the previous questions, the fox found herself even more trusting in their abnormal relationship, whatever it was these two strangers had. His name was still unknown, his face would be left just another in a crowd, and his warmth was still unfamiliar; however, she couldn't help but find comfort in this friendship, this peculiar silent-agreement the two had.
Domastine kept a gloved hand against hers, not even removing it from his shoulder. His masked face lowered faintly closer to her own, an abyssal white surface to her own elven visage as the voice spoke out quietly, "Do I require to save you before I am allowed to ask, -elf-?" More emphasis was place on the moniker he had for her, much in the same sense as 'mask' was hers for him. The jungle around them was gradually darkening, and a small hint of light was visible in the west, perhaps the light of a distant fire. His face suddenly jerked to the side to look towards its direction.
Alaine smiled to the emphasized moniker, slowly stopping the stroke of her thumb and following his shifted gaze to the distant glow. "What is it…?" Brows furrowed just slightly, curious to his obvious draw toward this light; did it prove significant to him?
Domastine released her hand slowly, though not before offering a return of the morning's gesture. A leather coated thumb caressed the side of her hand. "A light, over there." The same hand pointed towards the light source, his mask returning to her face. Knowing what Terra had told him of a missing wagon, he asked the artificer, "Should we go and see? It could be what Finn seeks." If it was, then he would know for sure what the contraband would be, which Alaine may not enjoy. However, if it was and not something her new companion would interfer with, then she would be the hero of the day in finding the missing goods before the other groups would.
Alaine kept gaze 'pon the glistening flicker in the distance, furrowing fine brows in concentration. Sharp gaze hardened, delicate-lavender lids squinting just slightly as she tried to get a clearer image of the glow. Curiosity burned, the urge of discovery nearly overpowering. A lively glint came to her eyes as she looked to ivory once more, smiling excitedly and wiggling slightly where she stood. "Let's go!" the elf chimed, taking firm hold of gloved-hand and easily leaping into the cover of jungle trees, tugging him along without struggle.
Domastine was taken by surprise as her hand caught his and pulled without warning. Rays of moonlight pierced the canopy at times, almost lighting their way. "Wait," he called to her in a hushed voice in an attempt to halt her. She was entirely too eager for them racing to the unknown, no longer putting much thought into the fact that she had dragged him with her without hesitation. The light grew brighter as they drew closer, smaller lights winking into exisitance. The smokey scent of mesquite or other such material burning began to fill the air. Booming precussion sounds were heard resounding ever more loudly as the pair reached the outskirts of a village. It was not Grot's men, nor even the missing smuggled goods. They had stumbled upon a tribal ritual or ceremony. Immediately, the spectre pulled Alaine's hand to draw her against a nearby tree trunk. "I said, wait," he quietly ordered as his body pressed and shielded hers, white masked close to her face. From their position, a large bon fire dominated the scene with furred bipedal beasts hollering and dancing in firelight.
Alaine was much too eager for her own good, this occurrence just another instance of curiosity turned to trouble in the elf's lifetime. It could have been, but his presence prevented the possibility; she could have burst through the shrouding of trees right into the center of the ritual without hesitation, which would most likely have resulted in a brawl of some sort with the furry beasts to keep her life. Hands rose in defensive instinct as he tugged her slender form back and his body pressed against hers, lean shoulder blades quickly becoming familiar with the course bark of the exotic tree. Fingers had ultimately found rest 'pon his chest, somehow finding their place in the series of events -- hands raising, his body turning, and digits already at his chest level; it seemed sensible. Small frame was blocked by his towering shadow, looking up to him with only the upper half of her face glowing in the ritual's fire, sterling hues glistening bright in the dancing flames as she stared at the white mask and lips dared to mouth the word "Sorry…"
Domastine was not heard sighing in regret for having her react in such a way, but there came a pause that could lead one to believe that. "Do not apologize. I simply did not want you harmed." Registering the warmth that was once on his shoulders now on his chest, his masked head hesitantly craned down to look to her hands and then to her fire kissed visage. He then realized where his own hands had rested. Though it had been only to restrain her in case she resisted and curiosity won out to have her bolting out to the village, his hands were gingerly resting on her hips within her leather duster. The embrace of sorts prompted a drawn out silence before howls suddenly broke his trance and snapped his masked face back to the village before them. A primal dance was occurring, though it appeared to have aspects of battle as the silhouettes of Lycans drew close with weapons only to separate once more. "...we should go, elf. There is nothing here for us," he at last uttered, though finding himself reluctant to step away from the woman.
Alaine nodded slowly to his truthful observation; they should leave. They were in danger, the Lycans growing closer in their ritual, but his hands on her hips felt warm, despite the leather that separated any true contact or transfer of heat. Eyes remained fixed on the expressionless face for a few moments before she blinked, head turning quickly as she gasped softly, like breaking herself from a trance. "We have to leave." Lithe hands slid down from his chest, gently tugging at his wrists in signal for him to release her hips before she took his hand, spun around the tree's trunk, and set off in the direction they had come. She was fast, strides carrying them an impressive distance in mere seconds, though there was no doubt he could keep up; he had displayed his speed before and even though her elven blood and assassin training made her remarkably quick, he still had an edge. Leather duster whipped about slender frame as the fox stared ahead, jaw clenched tight as they reached their previous location before the ritual, stretching even farther than that. It took a fair amount of time for the artificer to even show any signs of slowing, almost as though the Lycans were no longer what she was running from, but something else, something deeper. Hand still had a firm grasp of his own as she slowed the run, gradually decelerating enough to walk once voices were heard. She knew those voices… It was Finn, and the crew. They were still searching?
Domastine did not expect the woman to be so swift in decision, pulling him back towards the beaten jungle trail quickly. A glove hand kept his grip on hers even as they slowed to a stop near the edge at the distant murmurs of voices. It had to be the rest of her group, or perhaps those that Finn's people sought out. He could not risk being seen by the former, much less have Alaine be seen with him with their hands still held together. Looking down to their linked fingers, he slid his hand free from hers. A hand on her shoulder to draw her attention since she had a look of recognition to her face, he whispered to her, "Go. For your own safety, you should not be seen with me." He did not even give her a moment to reply, already his cloak dissipating his body from view. "Do not worry about me, elf," was the last whispering voice heard before there was no trace of her new companion.
KAE RECOVERS TERRA…
Damn women. Damn bloody women. Damn pain the ass. Any number of those thoughts had been roughly translated into guttural growls and grunts as the captain ducked under a low hanging branch. Kae said 'stay put', the woman follows after. He says 'follow', she slips off. Of all the bloody lessons his dear 'ol Da had taught him, none of them ever seemed to help with the understanding of the fairer sex. At least if she had been back at the beach where the Halfling thought to look after her disappearance, he could have gotten all his scowling done early and headed off to drink in peace. That might have been too much to hope for. At the very least the captain had managed to see that the rest of his group had returned safely.. for the most part. He waited for a while there, as though the blonde female right return on her own and spare him the trouble of trudging back inland to find her. That was also too much to hope for. Impatience set in, irritation further engraving itself onto his rugged face as the captain turned eyes to the paths leading into the wilderness. Finally, he gave in. With bow in hand the bandana-clad man made his second journey into the jungles. Swearing under his breath, the man paused to scan his surroundings. He almost did not want to assume she had returned to the springs, or the last track they'd been following together.. or even that she was headed to the beach at that moment. That would make too much sense. Grunting angrily, he resumed his march. He was going to bloody kill her when he found her.
Terra had been chasing after ghosts and that was surprisingly literal as one may have been able to tell by all that mumbling and cussing she in reference said to the absent ghost. Who tried to follow things that vanished? This one, and now she's a little bit lost. If it were possible she'd kill this Spector again, if only for the pleasure of never recieving another one of his annoying visits with all those damned questions. And the captain! If he didn't kill her first, she'd likely kill him. How far did he go before he even noticed her absence? Probably back to the beach for a drink - seemed like his thing. It took a bit of a ramble for her to clear the greenery and the first hint that she had succeeded was the sudden kick of small stones that made the distinct noise of becoming airborne. She'd skid to a stop in time to watch a few more fall down the gap and wondered how in the world she managed to stumble into an area where the ground literally opened and threatened to swallow her whole? There's a sudden shriek born out of pure frustration and it may have served as a beacon for current location.
Kirikae had been headed the entirely wrong direction to locate the missing Terra. Of course, that lovely shriek of her's certainly aided in turning the Halfling in the correct direction. Grip tightened on his bow, pace quickening as much as he thought safe when crossing the denser underbrush of the jungle. Alright. If she had managed to land herself in some kind of danger, he was going to kill her. As a matter of fact, if she was safe, he was going to kill her. Not much mattered aside from finding her to determine whether the woman was safe or not. After that, he'd kill her. He was not oblivious to the gradual thinning of foliage about and underfoot. The Captain might have been paying just a touch more attention to where he was headed since the quicksand. He'd knock an arrow then, pace slowing just a touch as he came upon the sparser, unfamiliar landscape.
Terra did not want to go back in all that jungle. Her knees protested the idea from the many falls and tripped roots and there's enough tree and dirt in her hair that someone may confused her scalp for a garden. To put it plainly, she's not too pleased to be in this situation and it doesn't help that she was stuck out there alone. Don't even ask her about the snakes. There were so many snakes. In fact, she's short one blade from having tossed it at one that had managed to get a little closer than she would have liked and there's a rash on the skin of her elbow that she is starting to wonder if it came from a poisonous flower amongst her travels. Oh-- her eyes settled on one of the numerous vines that dangled from the trees on either side. No no, no, no she is not swinging across like some sort of man-ape. That was not an... oh hell, it's starting to look like the only idea. Could she reach?
Kirikae wondered why the hell elves seemed to favor hopping about damn forests. Perhaps none of them had a bit of sense? Ah. Elves sounded very much like women, and so that all must have been very feminine to ditter about in such places. The logic was infallible. Slight taper of his ear twitched, pace quickening again as he deftly wove over bramble and fallen limb alike; until he came upon the tell-tale blonde hair that marked the female he sought. The man stilled, bow lifting just slightly. He very much considered letting the shaft fly. Not to hit Terra, no. The ground near her feet would have been a decent target, and her reaction would have likely been worth seeing- unless that reaction sent her over the edge of the chasm. She was not that stupid, surely, but all the same.. Fingers twitched against the dirty-white feathers of the arrow he held, and grimacing, Kae relaxed the weapon. "Woman," likely the only greeting she'd get as the captain stepped out of the greenery. Gaze traveled to the gorge and the vines before snapping back to the other. His expression was not at all a happy one, and his eyes were hard as he glared at the female.
Terra : Never in the short time that she had known Kirikae would she have ever thought herself happy to see him. But this time, she was. So much so that her hands would actually clap together until the scrapes on both protested the action almost as much as he might have. She'd point to the vines as though to direct his attention. "That looks like my best bet.. yea?" If her voice faltered a little at the end it's more than likely a catch in the wind more than fear, at least that she would admit to. "Will you catch me over there?" Because she had no intention, not a single one, of letting go of that vine until she's got something to latch onto and he happened to be the nearest, sorry sucker she could get.
Kirikae followed the path of her finger to the vines. For a moment his gaze flickered between her and the dangling tendrils. The look on his face, if she could have deciphered it from the distance between them was one almost comically disbelieving before hardening again into a grimace. It would be safer to walk around. Considerably safer. "Ah can catch yer, Dove," he called back in answer, setting the bow carefully upon the ground. Shame, for a guy who had just spent a solid few hours marching through the forest and wishing this woman her death, that he would be concerned for her safety now. "Be better if Ah came 'round ter you." That was as much voice as those concerns would be given. Frowning, he lifted his hand so that calloused thumb might run between his bandanna and grimy forehead.
Terra didn't much care for the name but he's afforded a bright grin that may have been hard to witness. "If I don't make it across... will you say my name at the burial?" She had the strangest sense of humor and it would be the sound of laughter that echoed over the gaping hole, probably the clearest thing he had heard during the course of the conversation. Bottom lip was sucked between her teeth and she'd stretch enough to give one of the thicker vines a good tug to verify if the branch above could sustain her weight. It's wrapped the top of her leg and she'd toss him a salute before going for a running start, knees tucked so tightly together that she's bruises will be found within moments. As though it was a mere swing set constructed for play her legs kicked out only to wrap themselves tightly back in when she approached him. He'd either catch her or let her swing back, all the while hoping that she could keep her hands wrapped tight around the thick vine.
Kirikae , from the moment the words had come from her mouth, had uttered a few choice curses of his own beneath his breath. She was going to fecking jump. If she fell, he reasoned, it was her own bloody fault.. Of course.. he'd have to be the one scaling down the gorge to collect her corpse and haul it back to the beach. He'd keep the irritable groan low, as eyes caught her salute. He did not even bother tipping one of his own whilst she began that running jump. Damn woman. Treasured bow was quickly kicked further out of the way, before he'd turn to brace himself for catching the elf. Arms outstretched as the vine carried her nearer, leathern soles of his boots digging into the solid ground beneath his feet. The 'oof' that escaped the captain heralded the collision of her body with his torso, and almost instantly did arms wind about her frame. The force of their impact knocked him back a step, sending him quickly teetering off balance. A well timed shove backwards on his remaining anchored foot would take the two farther from the precipice, but it would leave them on the ground nonetheless. "Lady," Kae grunted, working to untangle himself from her. "Ah swear ter ther Gods, Ah'm goin' ter kill you."
Terra was shaking, be from the adrenaline rush or the wind that had whipped around her during that brief stint, but she can't stop. There's a slight sound of laughter as he threatened her life and the appearnce of callous already forming on mud-covered palms isn't all that surprising. The captain is the one to do the majority of the untangling and for a long moment she'd remain flat on her back, staring towards the sky with eyes are large as the moons. When she does stand it's because she launched herself at him again and he's literally forced into a hug despite the uncomfortable tension that usually settled in. "You bloody idiot." She'd pull off before he was able to smack her or toss her in the hole and merely gave his shoulder a swift punch. "You just saved my skin. I would've swung for days." There's an amazing amount of good cheer in that elf as she looked towards him and then towards the way he had came. "Wait 'til I tell on you.."
Kirikae did not bother with attempt to wipe the new layer of dirt stains from his duster when he finally managed to straighten himself to a proper stand. Between he and Terra, it looked almost as if the two of them had been roughing it in the jungle for a week rather than a day. His gaze lingered on her for a moment when he found she was still lying there, making a quick damage assessment. With a quiet grumble, he turned away to collect his bow. She was so dirty and bruised herself that he couldn't begin to tell whether the fall had caused.. more damage. He sure as hell was not carrying her back to camp, regardless. That much he had decided. It turned out rather quickly that such a worry was pointless; proven when the elf caught him in a hug as he stood from collecting his bow. He glanced down at the top of her head, unsure for a moment how to react properly to the sudden contact. He ended up choosing to go with the usual scowl and grunt, eyes drifting into the jungles as she pulled away. Her words did manage a crooked grin from the man, along with an amused snort. Tipping his chin in the direction of the path he had come, Kae began the slow walk back into the jungles and paused once at the border of greenery to ensure Terra was following.
MEANWHILE..ON THE SHIP..
Hanan ::Paperwork. There was no escaping paperwork,not even aboard a damn pirate ship. Hanan sat at the table in her recently-rerighted cabin with the crew manifest out. Old Olivey got an "injured" scribbled next to his name, and the man who Grot had blinded in one eye got a "quit," though she supposed she'd have to make him work his leg back to Rynvale. Hanan signed, leaned back, kneaded the bridge of her nose. Outside her quarters, though the open door, she heard the sound of work being done, supplies being unpacked... some of Red's men carousing... the damn cat, howling again. Where was her bottle? There--she filled a glass,leaned back, sipped. Where was she? Where was Red? She'd hate to flip the page over, go to the passenger manifest, scribble a "missing" between Miya's "useless" and the Jack of Hearts' "annoying." But that was her private manifest. Who'd ever see it?
Finn was tired as hell, and irritated. Irritated that he’d had to wait on the beach gritty and travel worn for longer than he’d have liked for a row boat crew to decide that it was a good time to head land side again-especially at night. Per his orders, it seemed that everyone was tucked away right and tight aboard the ship that had loomed a silhouette in the distance, though it was entirely possible than some lurked ashore somewhere, given that this lot had eventually come up. He’d all but resigned himself to a night on the beach-maybe in that whaler hut, when the splash of oars had drawn his tired gaze to the shore line. The runner had made swift work of relieving the crew of their burden, and tossed a few gold pieces their way to make their soon to be night landside more bearable, before climbing aboard with those of his crew who were likewise eager for some semblance of civility after two days and a night in the brush. It’d been one helluva trek-and nothing to show for it. The male grunted softly from his place in the boat. Not that’d he’d expected it, but the place had had to be eliminated. Hopefully those left behind had fared better. He was almost unaware when the winch went to work, but the appearance of the top deck at eye level was indicator enough that it was time to move. “Thanks mate..” it was a throaty drawl as he maneuvered himself from smaller to lesser vessel, unfurling to his feet to catch sight of the lantern light shimmering through that open door. The captain was awake. He was hard pressed to hold back a grin. The Hellcat. If he didn’t know better he’d think that he’d missed her. Weary stride, bearing the ghost of a limp took him over to the door, where pack was dropped with a ‘thump’. A broad shoulder leaned against door post and his voice would float across the quiet space between them. “Reckon cats like their sand boxes as much as their perches then..aye?..” humor lurked in his whisky gaze.
Hanan ::"It wasn't sandy until you tramped in, Red." Lips curled up in a ready grin, though she didn't look up yet--she was in charge on the ship, damn him, and she'd LOOK it. She scribbled something next to a new name--"Razor: Drunk"--before covering the page, leaning back once more, and catching the runner's eye. "Didn't know if you were makin' it back." Chair was pushed back, she rose, limped over, clapped him on the shoulder in an unusual show of comradery. Yeah, she actually had missed him. "Your men turn into morons when you aren't around. Did you find anything?" Clean glasses, where were the clean--there they were. She grabbed one out of the cabinet. "We mostly just mucked around. Don't know why the hell you brought Miya... she kinda just stands there, swats at mosquitos. Nice, but..." Back to her table, she turned her back on him, pouring him a glass. "Oh, and I caught the Razor. Got him locked up down in berthing." Simple statement, like she was recounting the weather. She turned back, offered him the glass... smirked fiendishly. "Take your damn drink."
Finn had remained where he was, leaning in the doorway with arms crossed- mostly because he was too dammed tired to move, and so it was his gold flecked gaze that idly followed the movements of the captain as she spun circles around herself in the cabin. How could a captain look lost in her own quarters? The amber liquid she was poring looked good enough to give up most things for though-he made it a habit of running dry, never paid to have cloudy judgment on the job. The litany of questions and statements were taken in stride, and he was about to form a reply when glass was thrust into his hands and declaration of her captive was made. The runner stilled, drink in hand and pinned the female with a stare that hovered between skeptical and incredulous. “The hell you have..” Eyes ricocheted over her body, looking for sign of injury. “How bad was it..how many did we lose? Did we get the stash?”
Hanan wasn't lost. She was utterly at home. A lost person would be looking for economy of movement, not revelling in it. She leaned back on her table, crossing her arms over her chest in a belated mirror of his own gesture. "No, we've got the Razor, who'll tell us where it is. I was goin' to leave the interrogation to you. Caught him alone, in the swamps... rutter was taking a piss. It was damn easy." She wouldn't say how close she'd been to getting pissed on. Had to keep some semblance of decorum around her. There's no sign of injury, none at all, save the old limp in her leg. Granted she'd changed out of her muddy clothing. "Got him back to the ship at swordpoint... he slashed a couple of my men, but they'll live. So far as I know, we've got no real casualties, of those who've come back. "She shrugged, reached down, grabbed her drink; brows knitting suddenly. "Terra and Kirikae have yet to return. Figured they might've caught up with you..." Brown eyes rose, met his a moment. "It's been awhile, hasn't it?"
Finn pushed himself off his shoulder, standing to his full height, and that look that rested on Hanan almost bordered of chill. “ Terra’s not on the god dam boat?..” the words were spat out like bullets, the look in his eye dangerous. “Why the hell isn’t she? Do you have a search party out lookin’ for them. Are you sure she’s with Kae?..” That at least was some comfort..but the bastard Halfling knew better than to keep her out there after dark. God’s blood, but something was wrong. The Razor was forgotten, revenge was forgotten, and all he could think of, feel, remember..was the scent of her hair, and the feel of the skin of her temple against his lips as he had murmured goodbye. “Get me a god dammed boat. Now. I’m goin’ after them..” All trace of weariness was gone from his form, and he was already spinning from his place at the door. “And a lantern..” He still had the machete from his days of hiking. But where to start? “Know what direction they were headed?”
Hanan huffed. "Left a few men on the shore, at the forest's edge, told them to keep an eye out... couldn't do much more until you came back." That was true, wasn't it? He'd left the captains in charge. She was the only captain here. "She went with Kae, yeah. Caught her..." She'd been about to say scent. That'd be weird, wouldn't it? "...trail in the swamp, right before I ran into Razor. There's a path through there, they wouldn't've fallen into quicksand." Granted, unless they were stupid. God damn, they were elves, right? Elves were good with trees. There were... lots of trees on the island. "Figured they made camp. You've got the boat." She gulped her drink down, then pushed off the table, following him. "Take that lantern over there--hell. Want me to go with you?" How would she put this delicately? "I'm good in the dark."
Finn spun around to face the woman, her chatter about quicksand was not helping. “Dam place is a bloody death trap..doesn’t matter how good your eyes are. Need somebody who knows their way around,” he all but growled. His eyes narrowed on her, focused but thought filled. “And I know just the bastard for the job..” The runner was moving with the agile grace of a predator, away from the captain’s quarters, down through the hatch to the berthing deck to the only officer’s cabin with a locked door..and a guard. “Open it..” it was a growl, one that prompted instant co-operation. And then the smuggler was looming in the doorway, a grim shadow with eyes that pinned its occupant to the wall. A singular phrase was uttered then. “I need a guide..and you’re going to be it. If you want to live.”
Grot took lazy eyed look at him. A hint of sigh lingered against narrowed gaze, lips furling upward, the remnant smell of stale liqour drawn heavy on breathes that came long, drawn against a shirtless chest. No issue, qualm, resided in his response. Just a questioning tone ripe with dislike for anyone with a house that nice, dripping with the quiet undertones of natural dislike - "Wot, nice to see you too Red." A contrived fruit of humor, still along branch during spring harvest. Something that went unharvested at the moment, stoic hazel eyes wrought with a fringe of, a hair, of respect. Boots were drawn to feet, laced, still muddy. And when he stood. He loomed over Finn by a good five inches. When he breathed, it was into Finn's face. The only times his eyes were not on his was when Kingsley was fecking blinking. An intimidating man, a bastard, and pissed off. From bed to three feets grace, Finn recieved. Waited there. Stood there. Stared him down.
Hanan ::"I'll be ready to leave when you stop measuring each other's." Hanan had come down right behind Red, a bit annoyed to say the least. No, she couldn't blame him for going, she just didn't like the implied accusation. No, she hadn't gone off to find Terra. She was busy being in charge of the motley seemingly random crew Red had put together. And now here they were. She peered over Red's shoulder, fixed Grot with a firm look. "I'd better go too." He'll smash your head in, he won't smash mine, she thought silently. "Keep an eye on him. Two against one's a hell of a lot easier."
Finn didn’t move. Not a dammed inch. The whisky gaze that swirled into the hazel stare of the Razor was murky, dark with a force that went beyond the need for vengeance, or pride. She was out there. “Must’ve not made myself clear mate. An’ seein’ I’ve not got the bloody time to whip my dick out an’ have a pissin contest, I’ll make myself clearer.” The words were chill, ice. “We can walk out of here..all civil like, an’ discuss our ..current dilemma while you guide me through this hell hole you’ve made your haunt.” A small, cold smile curved his lips. “Or you can stay here.. and enjoy the hospitality of more than one of my crew who lost a mate on that damm ambush. S’only the whip and blade keepin’ em from breakin’ this door in. Think the guard’s for you?” The auburn head canted slightly. “Make your choice. Quickly. I’m leavin’ with or without you.” There would be little of care to be seen in the runner’s gaze..save the burning drive that consumed him. To get to Her.
Grot was a stubburn ass of a man. An eye squints closed, arms cross over scarred, hairy chest - "Yeh. Doorframe dat small, Red, could hold off a god damn army." This wasn't over. Far from. "So how about - " Gaze narrowed, "You ask a bit god damn nicer." feet spread slightly, ever so slightly, a viper preparing to strike - raised his voice, so it'd echo into the hall beyond - "Anyone who wants to have a go at me, come and get it! Come and get it feckers! Dinners up!" Insane? Nawr, nervy, calling what could only be a bluff. Red din have his shyte back, din know where it was. Flowers for the sick, a thought suppresed by anger - fecking bastard of a man. "Come on then!" He was shouting, arms spread, eyes on Red - but words entailed more, for the crew, "Come and take a poke yeh sea rats."
Hanan muttered something incoherent but likely obscene. Gods damn him. Grot, that is. He had heads turning from that little common area and the galley, expecially Oiley, a bandage around his neck, who was rising to his feet. Gods damn him. "Nobody's pokin' holes in this rutter but me!" A raised look and a glare from his captain worked--Oiley was backing down. She turned--gods, she was much shorter than Grot, wasn't she?--eased her way in next to Red, attempted to shoulder the runner out of the way. She'd try plain honesty. A little bit of it."We've got someone lost out there." A look to Red, pointed. Don't shut me up, it said. "She doesn't know the island. Was supposed to be here by nightfall. Might've fallen someplace." See? A girl! A girl in peril! Macho bastards loved that. "It'll be a hell of a lot easier withsomeone who knows the trails."
Finn didn’t hear Hanan’s interjection, and could frankly care less. He was already moving once the bellow from the bandit had indicated his choice. He’d leave the mess of them on board to sort themselves out, and if he ended up in a quicksand bog, then so be it. He was not going to stand around a moment longer. The male had already spun on his heels, brushing past the Hellcat and heading down the passage. A barked, “Launch the boat..” offered to the nearest deck hand. He was already stepping into the rowboat as the winch began to grind. If they were to catch him..catch this ride, Grot and Hanan would have to be hard on his heels.
Grot Kingsley was expressive for fool of a bandit. At the moment, expressing a bit of shame. "Oh. Lass got lost? Dumb bitch, ain't nuttin but fecking bogs, panthers - fecking pigmes! Why din yeh say so?" Soft voice, damn her, fecking - "Red! Red! Wait tah'feck up yah bastard!" Was already moving, Hanan could follow, fecking itching the small of his back where she'd poked him too. Couldn't feckin' reach it, almost tripped up the stairs - realized one of them laces was undone still, "Red! Yeh feckin...rutter!" Opened the hatch - the sea assaulted his senses, island looming near by. Didn't really look nearly as composed-will-kill-you-even-though-I-am-a-prisoner as he would have liked in front of the crew, but hell, as Grot would say 'onna dem talkin' vaginnies need help, gots tah'do teh feckin'wot ya gots tah'feckin do' which, in this case, was pointedly ignoring the mental list of how many of them were going to die. From deck to boat, barely made it - hell, where was Hanan. Finally threw a look to his left, by his seating. Hadn't even thought of her.
Hanan was grinning as soon as Grot pushed past her. This wasn't ideal--he was a damn prisoner, she'd planned to tie his hands in front of him for appearance's sake, anyway--but still, he was doing what she wanted. He was putty in her hands. All over the idea of girls in peril. Part of this offended her nascent feminist tendencies but nevermind that, she was running. Did he think he'd be able to out-manouver her on her own damn ship? She took the steps up topside three at a time, zig-zagged between the tar barrels being used--yes, still being used--for repairs after that storm, even managed to give Harry a quick tap on the shoulder on her way. She was vaulting over the side and into the rowboat--which by this point was a couple feet down from the rail and still descending--when Grot looked. She landed in a catlike crouch, then rolled back onto Red's bench. She jabbed a finger at Grot. "Ruttin' behave."
THE PARTIES CONVERGE....
So much for a civil discussion. The runner had been the picture of grim, silent concentration as he followed the bandit through the dense terrain. Mangroves had become swamplands..those had taken some navigation in the dark and he’d been silently appreciative of the steady swathe beat through the terrain by the hulking male who’d taken point. With every avoided danger the smuggler had grown more silent. Terra and Kae did not know the island..the traps that lay around, it seemed, every corner-avoided, barely by the advancing party because of the knowledge of their guide. He had no idea where they were going. Had Grot some intelligence on the movement of his party on the island? Or was this some instinctual path traveled by most who came this way? Either way..he’d press on, biting on the urge to bellow her name. Drawing the attention of night time predators..would not be the wisest course of action. “The hell are we goin’ anyway? How do you reckon we’re not just wanderin’ pointlessly through the forest Bandit?..” he spoke..finally. Be arsed calling the man Razor. Pretentious ass fecking name.
Grot was the embodiment of macho silence. But he was listening. For the bird calls. Birds native to Cenril-Sage, to the Milous Plains where he used to roam like a man driven mad, raiding. "Eh?" Didn't hear anything. Kingsley was smart enough to know his men noticed him not return. To know, they would be looking, and unlikely to play nice 'pon any they encountered. A hairy situation, which in turn made the hair on his chest bristle in a stirring breeze. Hand raised, he called the stop, "Dis es a big ass island, an' judging by tah' way yer actin' its tah'blonde bitch. And dem blonde bitches, dey like a view dah way I figure." No bird calls. Just the noisey jungle at night, this is not so bad maybe - "So. Bitch wants tah'view, der be a mountain up der ahead someplace. Got damn midgets all over dah got damn place though." The reminder made him start moving again, briskly. Basically his answer to Finn was: We are just wandering pointlessly through the jungle, Red. "Yeh." Almost tripped over a damn branch, "Jes'call'it'a'hunch, tah'way I lookit, she ain't done nothing tah'warrant getting roasted yet. Damn..." He began to mumble under his breath, 'fecking midgets..'
Hanan grumbled, lifting her lantern to peer at Grot's face. True, she didn't need the light... but it was the thing to do. "I really doubt she's that stupid. We aren't looking for a view. We're looking for..." she let her voice trail off. "Besides, she was with that elf captain. Even if she was lookin' for a view, he'd likely keep her on track." She easily stepped over that branch he nearly tripped upon, eyes peering farther into the darkness. No predators... at least not in this direction. Terra... she'd have good night vision, good senses. She was a vampire, sure as Hanan was. She doubted a jaguar would've gotten her. Natives, though... "You're sayin' there's natives on the island?" Quick look given Red, worried. It was different if they'd been swarmed. "What do you know about 'em, Razor?" She'd call him Razor. She wouldn't call him Grot. Not until the bastard told Red his name. Bastard got Red angry enough, Red might hunt him down back in Cenril... she didn't like that idea. Nostrils flared, perhaps she could pick up a scent. There! Terra--to their right... "No... east." Damn her, she couldn't say why! "You wouldn't take your load up the mountain, you'd stay someplace lower. Easier to get it back on a ship. They'd know that." There, that sounded plausible.
Terra did follow this time. There were no ghosts to serve as distraction and nor would she further test Kirikae in that matter. He now knew of a vast gorge in where she could be disposed of and that thought alone kept her close enough that he would notice her absence. "Thanks, you know..." it was perhaps one of the only things she hadn't said. Even this time it was mumbled low enough that his pointed ears may have missed it. Both of her hands are shoved in the pockets of her pants as they progressed on. "I was chasing a ghost..." She'd offer after another delay as though to explain and apologize for her sudden absence.
Kirikae may have been gifted with sharper senses than most humans, though that did not mean at all the man could see in the darkness that had so quickly set in on them. Despite the elf's proximity, the bandana'd captain's eyes flickered toward her as often as they did the obstacles the two kept finding along the path. What he caught of her mumble, he could not discern. The last bit though, he did hear, quite clearly. His pace did not slow, but once again, his head swiveled in her direction. "Ghost.." He frowned, remembering the white clad spectre that had boarded his ship. Couldn't possibly be the same spook, but all the same.. "Mask?"
Terra doesn't know what to make of him knowing about that same ghost and levels a glare on him. Was this all a prank that he had started? Could explain why it appeared when he walked off and why it was gone when he arrived... But he wouldn't do that. All the same she'd shrug a little, answer with a sigh and nod. "A white one. It doesn't hinder its ability to talk."
If the runner was irritated by the less than respectful manner in which his lover was being referred, it’d not show on his face, or be mentioned in his speech. He listened to the captain and bandit banter back and forth about the possibilities of where the elf might have gone. Or, more to the point, where Kae had let her go. Bastard. If anything had happened to her.. well, he figured Kae was likely dead or incapacitated too. Stubborn fool took his responsibilities seriously..oddly enough. The fine hairs of his nape shifted then, not with the instinct of danger..but with a sensation with which he was only too familiar. He’d always been able to feel her, calling to him. “Stop..” it was a husky murmur as auburn head lifted to cant slightly, the stillness of concentration on his features. “I hear voices..”
Domastine did not expect the woman to be so swift in decision, pulling him back towards the beaten jungle trail quickly. A glove hand kept his grip on hers even as they slowed to a stop near the edge at the distant murmurs of voices. It had to be the rest of her group, or perhaps those that Finn's people sought out. He could not risk being seen by the former, much less have Alaine be seen with him with their hands still held together. Looking down to their linked fingers, he slid his hand free from hers. A hand on her shoulder to draw her attention since she had a look of recognition to her face, he whispered to her, "Go. For your own safety, you should not be seen with me." He did not even give her a moment to reply, already his cloak dissipating his body from view. "Do not worry about me, elf," was the last whispering voice heard before there was no trace of her new companion.
Grot could hear'm a bit too. Something far-off. Paused, shot Hanan a look, shook his head in that quiet-stealthy way you might expect from a man expecting quite a lot, then - made a bird call. A red-winged Hooker, a sea bird.
Hanan ::Count on Grot to think of THAT bird. Still... she heard it too. A bit more keenly than the other two. A grin. Yeah... that was Terra. Couldn't make out exactly what she was saying, though. She moved a bit to the side of the trail, lowering her lantern behind a tree between them and the sound--better to muffle the light. "Psst." She canted her head slightly to the side, looking to Red. "That's probably them. Razor's men would be bein' sneaky."
Kirikae 's lips curved into that predatory grin. It was that bastard. It had to be. Once more the grip tightened on his bow. The captain would have to ravel at the mystery as to how the spectre had managed to follow them to the island. A ship..? Certainly, one would have been seen. Questions to ponder as he and Terra continued. It was not long before Kae felt a prickle of awareness. Voices, murmurs of distant voices? Whatever the sound, it quieted almost as quickly as the Halfling had heard it. His jaw clenched, and he came to a steady halt, ears and eyes straining in the darkness. Elbow cocked out to halt the elf at his side as well. Bow was half lifted, shaft of an arrow drawn along the cord in preparation. Gods be damned, he wished he could see in the dark. It was the sound of some distant bird that made his brow furrow, and his mouth twisted in a grimace. Blast it all, he was going to bloody shoot something. As soon as he knew what the hell it was.
Grot didn't hear any god damn birds calling back. Good? Bad? Feeeeeeeck - Eh. He drew near Hanan, haphazardly - casually, rather - picked up a broken, wet branch about the same thickness as her arm and slung it over the top of his shoulder. Just, minding his own, you know - "Eh. Look it. Be quiet buggers. Dunno whats lurking yeh?"
Alaine watched the mask slowly fade from her view entirely, his last command in low whisper still echoing in her psyche as smooth lips pulled up in a disbelieving smile. Boots were silent in their approach, avoiding stray twigs and dry leaves, purposefully making her presence unknown; it was frightening how stealthy the artificer could be when she wanted to, dustered-form easily veiled in the shadows in her approach of the nearby voices. Sterling hues beheld the group, easily singling out familiar auburn locks -- Finn. Long, silent strides carried her to his form from the back, all three of them seeming to be focused on something in the same direction, though nothing serious it seemed, considering the gruzzy-looking man just made a bird call and they were all simply standing about. Slender form swiftly hopped up on The Runner's back with momentum, arms holding tight around the curve of his neck in support as she leaned in to whisper, "What're we waiting for?"
Finn glanced in the bandit’s direction when that whistle slipped out..and he was not so wet behind the ears as to be unable to recognize his unspoken disappointment. “Think you might be right Cat..” he murmured huskily. In which event. “Only one way to find out aye?..” A grin curved his lips and a single phrase..lound enough to carry through the dense undergrowth. “Somethin’ tell me the fairy boy found his roots mate.. and for fecks sake..tell me you’ve got the sparrow with you..” That last would almost be lost in the outrush of breath propelled by the fox’s pounce. “The hell Fox…” his muttered grunt would be lost in his intent on getting a reply.
Terra isn't too fond of that grin he had in that moment especially not when he followed it up with the drawing of familiar weapon. What was he going to shoot? A bird? Was that a bird..? She'd give his arm a quick nudge to discourage shooting whatever animal lurked and continued on, coming all that much closer and then there's a word above all others - sparrow. If Kae hasn't killed her by this point, he got another nudge.
Hanan huffed through her nose. Damn. If Red was going to be loud, she'd have to be ready; she rose, moved her left hand to the hilt of her rapier, flicked it with her thumb to loosen the blade... "Kingsssley..." A low whisper, hopefully Red wouldn't hear. She rather liked the name. Rolled off the tongue. "Set that down when we know what's up." Was that Alaine on Red's back? Gods damn. Well, at least Red was good for something. Transport. Smirk.
Grot heard the voice. Hell, could use it to place her now - she was at his back someplace. Kept taking calculated steps back til he felt the warmth of her body, which put her at three inches or so. Eh. Whispered, not the best whisper-er in the world - kinda had a rough voice, sounded like a rumble. Comprehendable? Maybe. Scratched the back of his with the hand you know, not holding the giant branch against his shoulder. "Wot?" Whisper, whisper. "Set wot down?" Looked about - branch moved with his twisting torso, smacked Hanan in the head. Heard it connect. Gods damn it. "Eh. Eh, you okay?" Kingsley, well, thankfully no one could see his face - it was not amused, "Yeh...sorry?"
Kirikae was going to murder Finn. That much was obvious by the hafling's sudden icy silence. Neither bow, nor arrow as released as the man moved ahead, careful to be sure Terra was following behind, and that she would not.. move ahead of him. That would make his entire return to the rather moot, now wouldn't it? He was close enough by that time to make out shades of people, especially the one he had a current vendetta against. It was only when he was sure he had a clear shot that bow was raised into proper position once more, and arrow quickly released in the movement. Shaft would bury itself in the ground inches before the Runner's feet, harmless if no one had stepped in the damn way. It's landing was quickly followed with a return call. "Th' damn bird's safe, mate."
Finn was pretty dam sure that Kirkae wanted to kill him. It was what he counted on. How the hell else was he supposed to know if it was friend or foe out there before they got into melee range? The arrow twanged into the earth ahead of him and a satisfied smirk curved his lips. A palm lifted to scuff the head of dark curls over his shoulder, before, somehow, the elf was shaken loose. The male was pressing forward into the brush now, little enough thought for those gathered behind. Kae was seen first, and amber eyes locked with irritated blue for a moment that would go unseen. Long enough for the flash of gratitude to be registered, and a shoulder clasped lightly in greeting..and in passing, before he stepped beyond the Halfling to the female behind him. Now that he had found her..now that she was standing in front of him, he found himself oddly bereft of words. Fingers lifted to wipe a smudge of dirt off her pale cheek..and the mud caked residue of her pants and boots was absorbed. “You look like shit..” It was a tender hello. And then he was kissing her.
Hanan ::"OW." The smack was audible, alright. Hanan ended up flat on her ass in the middle of the jungle, hand clutching the side of her head while her entire skull throbbed. "Damn it!" Oh, she was fine. Vampiric senses didn't save her from idiots she somewhat trusted. Or at least trustedenough not to clonk her on the head. "OW." No, she wasn't rutting whispering. He got a glare as she scrambled to her feet, grabbing Grot's arm as leverage. She could see his face, alright. Wanted to smack it. "Ruttin' idiot."
Alaine growled to the ruffling of choppy locks, catching sight of Terra and immediately retreating in the convivial piggy-back; once Red caught sight of his little bird, he would be all over her. Sure enough, sterling gaze caught sight of the instant embrace of the pair's lips, scrunching her nose slightly before letting eyes wander to the eyes of the sea, smiling softly to the captain. It seemed like forever since she had seen his face.
Grot pulled Hanan on to her feet (belatedly, sorry) and eyed her - or the dark shape he thought was her, at least. "Eh. Wot?" Oh. Horray, everything is fine, the blonde bitch came back tah - Yeah, he should get all the credit. "Told yeh I'd find'm. Feckin...yep." Huffed out his chest, sweaty by now. "Another day in the life of: Grot Kingsley." Grot smacked his god damn hand over his mouth faster than hell. Damn it. He'd said his....name.
Terra does not understand what the hell Finn and Kae are going on about and frankly she could care less. Honestly, there is very little she could come up with the ability to care about except the oh so kind compliment bestowed upon her in those few short moments when she's able to breathe. Honestly, by the time she allowed him to take in the air of the jungle once more she would be surprised to find that anyone had decided to stick around. Dirty fingers tighten into a ball and he's delivered a brief punch to his shoulder as a rebuttal to the remark but her hands have slipped into his and she'd manage to sneak in a familiar gold token is pressed against his hand, passed along as requested at the start of his departure. Their walk back, when she finally stepped away to long enough to allow him to retreat, would be filled with conversation about the day's adventure. Though the time would eventually come when she was blessedly silent.
Kirikae let his irritation fade enough to nod gruffly in the Runner's direction. If the blonde wanted to punch the redhead in the face- and he surely wanted to-, he decided against it. Bow lowered as he stepped aside to allow Finn and Terra their moment, his hand lifting to swipe the bandanna from his scalp. Briefly as he moved around them, the treeborn's eyes found Hanan and Grot.. along with their violent bit of interaction. His frown furrowed his brow, though the captain was hardly inclined to say anything on the matter. He was at the point where he was much too tired to care. Gaze continued to drift lazily to the familiar dark locks of the artificer, before dropping to meet her own. He'd nod in silent greeting, before glancing back toward Red and Sparrow. "Awright, ther' two of yer can get to yer beddin' on the boat," said if that tender hello outlasted the halfling's patience.. which would not have been entirely impossible given his current mood. Slinging his bow over his shoulder, Kae would likely be the first one to begin stomping back to shore if they did not move soon.
Hanan looked up at him--gods damn, he was tall. Or she was short. Whichever, same difference--and punched him hard in the shoulder. There'd be a bruise, there. "Mister Kingsley," she muttered. "Remind me never to hire you to spy for me. You're ruttin' terrible." On her feet, she brushed herself off... still looked at him sidelong. "You stumbled us right into her. Good job."
Grot dropped the branch, more-so tossed it aside, and rubbed the god damn shoulder she'd punched. "Ehh now, woah lassy." She did have a point, a double point, which made him look an odd mix of vindicated and defeated at the same time. "Oh wot?" Mood was cheering up. Considering the circumstances. Might have been tacklin' the booze a bit 'fore Finn ousted him. "Wots that? I did wot now? I fecking wot? F- found....them? Innit that wot yeh said then?" A smile, slowly fading, "Eh. Les' go before tah'god damn pigme's get tah'us."
Finn had had enough of the brush for one night..or three. He’d hacked his way out..just to hack it in again. He’d already been exhausted to begin with, and it had been compiled with the strain of worry for the sparrow. Now that she was safe in his arms, adrenaline receded and it was all he could do to keep on his feet. Kae was darted a baleful stare into retreating back, and the bandit a thoughtful look. Grot. He’d make it a point to remember. The token that slipped into his palm was greeted with a ghost of a smile and a nudge of his head toward the Fox would encourage her to fall in ahead of himself and the sparrow. When he spoke, words would be directed to the Razor, words in an oddly idle tone. “Welcome to board Grot.. reckon we’ve got some business to discuss you and I..” It was no truce..and there was likely to be some haggling, but it was an invitation..not an arrest. A fact that surprised the runner itself. Seemed that this particular favor ranked pretty dam high in debt cancellation in his book. What was that saying? No honor among thieves? He’d not make the mistake of trusting the bastard. Hell, if opportunity arose he’d clean his clock..10 mend dead. But tomorrow..tomorrow they would talk. The waning moons would light the path of the small company back to the shore..and eventually the ship beyond.