Getting even

[Auchenai]

The town was somewhat large; a walled community that surrounded a rather well constructed stone keep. It had most everything one could want from civilization and was not as massive or ostentatious as a full city might be. Idrian rather liked it, he had lived in cities in the earlier part of his life and it had always been a cramped experience. Always people shoving and bustling along, the smell of people being stifling and choking. Here, the young human had plenty of space as he moved through the streets of the village. It lacked the barren nature of small villages as well, with multiple inns and such to stay at. Edrex was a nice place in his mind, if nothing else this visit was a nice change of pace.


However the dark haired mage was not here for sightseeing, indeed as he made his way through the moonlit streets there was purpose in his strides. His robes billowed ever so slightly in the light breeze, the fine fabric rippling every now and then. Red eyes were fixed upon the keep that was slowly coming closer, a simple thing really though the promise of work held within was certainly enough to get him moving. Technically he was slightly late, the appointed time he and his partner having set to meet by the main gate had passed by a few minutes.


The man got a few looks from the few souls that walked the street at night, especially from the night watchmen. It hardly surprised him; the red eyes denoted him as a dark wizard and many people were not wrongly suspicious of the branch of magic users. Idrian ignored them, continuing on his path without a break in his stride. He rather enjoyed the night; it was when he was at the height of his powers. Plenty of dark things to work with aside from his shadow or his companion’s shadow.


Speaking of his companion, Idrian’s mind turned towards whether or not he should prepare for a dagger in the back from the elven woman. Elves… his master had never spoken highly of them, honestly he could see why the old man might have his opinion. The dark mage hadn’t known Sharla for long, the fact of the matter was he didn’t even know her surname. However he could very well bet that she had seen at least five of the dark mage’s life times. If Idrian had lived that long he’d probably have mastered most aspects of dark magic, instead his companion seemed content to waste that longevity. In some ways, he was disgusted by that.


Finally the man was nearing the main gates to the keep, his eyes wandering upwards towards the wall. He could see a couple of armored figures up there, torch flames no doubt casting long shadows. The gate itself was open and was crafted from metal reinforced wood like many such keeps Idrian had seen. The man’s gaze then turn towards searching for Sharla, hoping that he had not been the only one to be a tad late. The last thing he wanted was to have to listen to any admonishments from her of all people.

 

[hellreevus]

Unlike the mage who was frolicking among the crowd, the rogue preferred to walk amongst the shadows, not really keen on having eyes on her. She'd resort to sneaking about the many alleyways and rooftops of the many cities she had went traveled to over the years. It helps to keep a low profile among people who were hunting her down, whether she'd be alive or dead. It'd be no surprised if she was wanted in this particular city, though she'd be obviously be careful of not getting caught.


The elf never really had an exact purpose in life as time wasn't an issue for her, unlike the other races, particularly the humans with their pitiful lifespan. She had the advantage of living a longer life than they do, and opted to simply do jobs and contracts from people just for fun. And when money is involved, it aroused and lifted her juices up, as the thrill of the game made it quite exciting. And the next job she had heard vaguely about, was probably the biggest offer yet, something she could not refuse and pass up. However, there are a few problems..


She managed to get herself a partner to help along with this particular job, and she quite honestly doesn't even much about this human. All she knows really that his name was Idrian and he was a mage, and that's really the two things she cares about. The only benefit of this whole partnership was she was associated with a magic user, and magic users tend to be destructive and powerful whenever the need for combat arises. She wanted strong allies to rely on and she hoped that this human won't drag her down as extra baggage for her to drag. The last thing she needed was dead weight that she'd be force to carry.


Sharla would be one step ahead of the dark mage, as she'd be awaiting for Idrian to arrive finally. For this one exception only, she'd be seen leaning onto one of the walls of the city and to make sure no one sees her, her hood would be worn over her head. Only the locks of her brown hair can be seen from her head, before emerald orbs caught sight of the mage who had came. Without hesitation, she'd summon for him with a whistle. "Psst. Over here. Quickly now." She called out, her tone sounding impatient and demanding.


Speaking of the offer, Sharla knows naught much about the person that had contacted her and her partner. The only viable information that she had that she was in the talks with a powerful and influential figure of the city she was brought to. And with powerful people, comes high rewards, something that she obviously got her attention.

 

[Auchenai]

Idrian turned his attention towards his partner in crime, Sharla, noting with some mild distaste that she looked rather like a vagabond to his eyes. He didn’t bother to conceal a slight curl of his lip at the sight, surprised a guard hadn’t pulled her aside to question her given her dubious appearance. Still he approached her, though his pace was kept leisurely, he was no elf’s servant and would not lower himself to being beckoned at any pace other than his own. The whistle especially managed to get his blood boiling with indignation. With the minor slight having restored his rather over inflated sense of superiority he gave an ever so slight incline of his head in acknowledgement.


“Sharla, you look rather like you are set to rob our employer as much as work for him. Couldn’t you have worn something a little more… palatable?” Idrian stated, his tone rather dry.


The dark haired man had worn his best for this entire affair, they were meeting with a noble lord after all and first impressions were the key to successful business arrangements. If there was one thing he remembered as a lesson from his foolish parents it was that, it had served him quite well when mingling with the higher society types. Naturally, his partner just had to ruin the image. Now they were going to look like a pair of common sellswords rather than professionals. Perhaps his decision to work with the elf was something worthy of reevaluation.


“In any event. Lord Tydus, the owner of this particular keep and an influence member of the Imperial Court is the one who we shall –hopefully- be working for. His wealth is said to come from his stake in the salt mines to the north as well as from his stake in a number of outlaying farms. His missive did not mention job specifics, only that he would make it very much worth our while.” Idrian offered by way of information.


The dark haired mage passed under the gate way, not bothering to look back to see if his companion was going to follow him. He noted that the interior of the outer walls was a rather sparse affair, rather military if he were to be the judge of such things. From the outer walls there lay a pair of large doors that led to the interior of the keep proper, flanked on either side by pair of guards that stood alert and seemed to zero in on the mage as soon as he stepped into view in the night air.


Idrian would approach the guards, producing a sheet of parchment from within the folds of his robes and presenting it to one of them. He didn’t need to say anything, one look at the dragon insignia stamped upon the document was enough for them to open the pair of doors. The made took that opportunity to straighten his robes, brushing off any dirt or dust that might have gathered upon them.


“Let me take the lead here. You just… stand by and look scary.” The mage said to the elf with a half glance towards her.

 

[hellreevus]

Sharla smirked as the mage was dressed up like as if he was going to some fancy dinner date or something. Obviously, it's safe to say that these two particular individuals were polar opposites from one another. Seeing as the elf was told that they were going to a place of high society, she simply just rolled her eyes at the man. She didn't want to stoop to their level, as she made a habit of robbing the rich and preying on their precious valuables. She'd at least remove her hood, revealing her face, emerald orbs looming over towards the dark mage.


"Mind your tongue, Idrian. I don't need you to tell me what to do. Just be happy that I have not stuck a knife onto your back yet. It's the last thing that you'd want." She snarled at him, rather displeased that she had to be in the company of this human of all people.


Upon hearing about more insight on who or what the person is, as well as the massive amounts of rewards that she'd receive from this Lord Tyrus. She sure hoped that this job won't be too hard nor challenging to get it done. "Oh, it better be worth our while. The only thing that interests me is the rewards that he had mentioned." Sharla shivered from the thought of being surrounded with large amounts of money. It gave her shivers down her spine and quivered her body with excitement.


She'd at least allow the dark mage to do all the talking and showing all of the proper documents that they were expected to arrive at their location. Sharla did, however, shot some glares at the guards she passed by, telling them silently to not even dare try to cross her. The elf in a way can be quite intimidating if one attempted to get under her skin. As she'd look around, she'd keep close to the human before her, smirking from time to time.


"Don't take this the wrong way. Only reason why I'm with you is because I like strong allies. Weak people just drag me down." The rogue said, as they continued to walk along.

 

[Auchenai]

The threats offered to the mage prickled at his skin ever so, however he allowed them to escape the elf’s lips without retort. A dagger in the back would be inconvenient most certainly and considering that it was likely to be a mission they would be working on he would rather not push his luck. Insulting a wizard was typically considered a poor idea as they were a prideful lot, however considering he needed a partner in order to take the job he would put up with the wench. It took every bit of his patience to resist the urge to bicker with her, it would not look very professional.


The looks Sharla offered the guards they passed did not escape his notice, drawing a frown from his as he walked inside. He himself simply held his head high and walked with an aristocratic bearing that befitted one of his ability, likely he could fake his way as being some form of noble lord. That bearing often helped, often just looking like one was the one in charge would cause people to obey their orders. People were funny like that; his master had taught him that lesson very well in his long education on the Dark Art and their uses.


“Weakness is not something we Dark Wizards are known for. Also, don’t walk so close to me. An arm’s length is preferable.” Idrian replied as a steward motioned for them to enter through another set of doors.


The place they entered into looked rather like an office of sorts, a tapestry with the same dragon sigil that had appeared on the document hung behind the main desk. The office was a simple fare, an oaken desk, a few chairs, and a particularly plush one behind it where their host was sitting. Lord Tydus was a man of about middle age, flecks of grey starting to streak his short black hair. He possessed a hawk like nose and somewhat severe expression plastered to his face; though it was possible he always looked like that. His clothing was rather finely tailored and leaning on his desk just within arm’s reach was what looked like a sword. He seemed busy going over a few documents when they would enter; though once they did he regarded them with a neutral expression.


“Ah, Master Idrian, a pleasure to finally meet you in person. And this must be your partner, miss…?” The noble started, regarding the elf curiously.


Idrian would be silent for a moment to give Sharla time to introduce herself if she so desired, before opting to take a seat in front of the desk. Lord Tydus offered both his full attention, grey eyes seeming to analyze their worth on surface appearances. A ghost of a smirk adorned his features, gone so quickly that it could very well have been a trick of the candle light. The dark mage pondered whether to start or to keep silent for the noble to speak up. He opted for that latter, believing it best to wait for Tydus to get what he wanted to say out of the way.


“First of all, I want to thank you both for coming here on such short notice. I assure you that you will be well compensated for the job I have in mind for you.” Tydus started.


“Of course, Milord. Your missive claimed as much, though I wonder what task it might be that you did not merely translate it through letter.” Idrian responded, his tone cordial.


“Hmm… tell me, you two. What do you know of the recent resistance movement calling themselves the Sunlight Legion?” Tydus inquired.


The dark mage raised an eyebrow, not having expected to hear about the Sunlight Legion of all things from Tydus. His red eyes flicked to Sharla, wondering if she had any knowledge of them at all. Considering her… particular skill set it would not have surprised the man if she had. Still it was an odd question, one that Idrian was not exactly comfortable hearing was involved in any job that he might be taking.


“Very little other than that they are a small group of people that are scattered across the Empire that resist the rule of the Emperor. I have heard they recently suffered a large defeat in the field, I thought they would have disbanded soon after.” The mage offered.


“Defeated, yes but not disbanded. It has come to my attention that one of their leaders has set up shop in an inn on the road just outside of my territory. I would like for you two to capture them and bring them back here to face justice.” The Noble clarified.


Idrian blinked at the job, not exactly having expected that to be what Tydus might have wanted to hire them for. The dark mage didn’t really care one way or the other about the resistance; honestly a name like the Sunlight Legion just came off as pretentious to his ears. Of course, Idrian could see why he might want to capture such a person. Taking a leader of the resistance into custody and then executing him might very well move him farther along the political ladder. The mage flicked his gaze to his companion, curious as to what Sharla might think of this particular job.

 

[hellreevus]

The elf seemed to enjoy annoying the wizard, as he knows fully well that she is needed in this little job of his. Her playful threats were merely and simply a jest, just to make his blood boil, which isn't usually a smart thing to do when it comes to magic users. However, she knew that Idrian needed her expertise and was confident that he wouldn't attack her during their time together. After all, this was only a business-type of relationship, and as soon as they get what they wanted, Sharla and Idrian are free to go their separate ways. Which was originally the idea anyway, once she was done with this job.


Sharla took a few steps away as Idrian had requested but would step in closer on purpose, just to see if he'll actually do anything. Though, as soon as they'd enter into the offices of Lord Tyrus, she was really trying hard to keep herself in control. Most of her job contracts and mission briefings took place in a secluded area and out of plain sight from everyone. But here, there must be countless amounts of valuables scattered about, though for the sake of not wanting to give a bad impression and probably for Idrian too, she'd kept a cool head. It's implied that Sharla might have robbed and broke into several manors, mansions and many places during her long lifespan.


"Sharla." She said simply, as it when came to business, she was only interested on the where, the what, the why and the when. The when being when she was going to paid very handsomely by this old geezer. She sure hoped that Lord Tyrus would get straight to the point and not waste any of their precious time. Though when he'd mention of the Sunlight Legion, her eyes widened.


"That resistance group? Yeah.. I heard a thing or two. Maybe." She smirked, seeming a bit vague on the way she spoke and the way she said it. She'd continued, however, "Heard they were being a thorn in the Emperor's side. Not that I care about their cause or anything. So, what you have us want us to do with these people, hmm?" She asked, though when Lord Tyrus mentioned that the leader was just close by, she even got more excited.


"Oooh~ Already making the job easy for us? So let me get this straight..~" The rogue began to make her way in front of the desk, giving a rather excitable yet menacing look onto her face. "You want us to simply capture your guy and send him back here? Well.. how do you like your prisoners? Alive and unwilling? Or.." She'd smirked and chuckled after that, for doing a throat cut gesture with her finger. "Dead and silent..~" With that being said, she'd proceed to walk back to where she originally was, standing next to Idrian.


"Just tell us if you know anymore about our guy, and you got yourself a taker in your lil' task, Lord Tyrus~" She said, before smiling at Idrian, though it'd be a rather menacing smile. Her look mimicked as she was ready to prepare and strike at her prey, which he might have found odd and disturbing. Would the wizard agree with these terms, as they simply had to capture their leader?

 

[Auchenai]

Idrian pondered the job, noting Sharla’s description of the task as being somewhat overconfident though in this instance he had to agree. It seemed a rather simple task, getting in, grabbing the person they were going to grab and then getting out. The dark mage had done similar tasks in the past though there had always been some catch involved in the process. The information offered was a bit vague as well, the mage liked to be sure on things like this. Going in blind was never a good idea, it was also important to understand the stakes properly as well as the reward.


“I prefer my prisoners alive. They serve as better examples in that manner.” Tydus answered simply, answering one of Idrian’s questions as well.


“Interesting. You mentioned that it was outside of your territory, this inn. Where exactly is it? What forces are there aside from our target?” Idrian inquired.


“Along the east road out of town, through the forest. Once you emerge on the other side and continue to follow the road you’ll be outside of my territory and the territory of the Empire itself. The journey will take no more than say two to three days at a good pace. You find an inn there along the way, The Sleeping Serpent, as of my last reports that is where they are staying. I am unaware if the leader is man or woman, human or elf. No loyal imperial servant has laid eyes upon them. As for the enemy forces, likely not many. I’d be surprised if more than a dozen are there.” Tydus offered, steepling his hands upon his desk.


The dark haired man reclined back in his chair, pondering the implications of this job for a moment. That answered his question as to why he had not simply sent his own men to handle this, starting a diplomatic issue with the Kelderon Pact to the east was not a good idea. So he wanted to work through mercenaries to avoid causing an incident, since he could easily deny any involvement to them. A very clever move on the noble’s part, Idrian could respect that kind of good thinking. Now came the most important matter of this entire affair, the only reason that he was here in the first place.


“Now then, there is the matter of payment…” The mage started, earning a slight smirk from the nobleman.


“I am prepared to pay you the sum of 200,000 platinum rimmed gold, split down the middle that comes to 100,000 for each of you.” The man said, the ludicrous sum being named quite casually.


Idrian’s eyes nearly bugged out of his skull, his jaw falling a bit slack at the mere mention of that amount of money. The currency system of the empire was quite simple, going from copper, silver, gold, and then platinum rimmed gold. One platinum rimmed gold coin was worth ten gold, 100,000 was worth about a million gold. With that amount of money, Idrian could probably purchase a tower, servants, and have plenty to spare left over. It seemed the rumors of Tydus’ immense wealth were not exaggerated.


“I-I cannot speak for my colleague here but that sum sounds very much agreeable to me. I will take the job.” Idrian stated, his mind reeling from the named price.


“Excellent. When you leave on the morrow I will have my men supply you with horses for the road ahead. Simply present my stablemaster with this, and he will handle everything.” Lord Tydus said, handing Idrian a sheet of parchment.


“Now then I think our business is concluded. I look forward to your safe return.” He finished, clearly a sign of dismissal.


The wizard stood and inclined his head to the noble, quickly leaving the office and smirking ever so as he turned to his companion. It turned out it had been worth getting in contact with some of the people he had met over the years, this being the chance of a life time. The amount of wealth gained from this task would be ludicrous, enough for him to retire from travelling at an early age and settle down to properly research like a good wizard.


“Well… I’d say we struck gold here. I believe you had your doubts earlier…?” The wizard teased the elf, his smirk taking on an arrogant edge.

 

[hellreevus]

Sharla pondered for a moment as this task that they were about to do, might be a bit much what they bargained for. If this was a simple assassination task, this would be just as easy as pickpocketing from unsuspecting victims. But seeing as this leader of the Sunlight Legion might still have the remnants of its troops still lingering about near it, this could be a challenge. But when there's money and rewards involved, she couldn't possibly say no to this.


"Shouldn't be a problem at all. I-, I mean, We can assure you that will get the job done in no time, Lord Tyrus. We will have your target, in the flesh of course, right into your welcoming arms~" She said with a smirk and smile, as the rogue was very confident that things will not go wrong along the way. Upon hearing the large amount of gold that they were going to be given, she'd try not to gasp, as she'd literally go crazy and jump on her heels when she would hear such a very handsome reward. She felt shivers going through her veins, as that amount of money can last a lifetime. Which could probably mean, this could be her last and final job and she'd happy to live the rest of her long lifespan, frolicking and being surrounded by gold.


Shaking off her brief moment of daydreaming, she'd give a small nod and smirk towards Lord Tyrus as they were about to make their way out. "We'll be back before you know it, milord~" She said, before as soon as they left his offices, an evil-looking grin can be seen onto her lips. Though, she'd clear her throat before looking towards Idrian. "Well then. Surely this isn't your first time on a kidnapping job, is it? And he did say he wants his target to be alive. Which can be quite the challenge, depending who or what the person looks like." She pondered, before thinking about the reward money again. "Regardless, this probably the biggest deal ever. We cannot, and absolutely -will- not, screw this up at all."


Sharla wanted to make sure that she and Idrian are on the same page, however, as she crossed her arms, "Let's get one thing straight, because obviously we need to do this together. So for now.." She'd offer her hand, albeit reluctantly, as her emerald orbs looked straight into his own eyes. "All I care about is getting that money. To be quite honest, I don't care if we have to beat this person to a pulp, to make sure he/she doesn't squirm if they try to escape. I want that money, really, really badly. So.. Until then, I am offering a truce to you. I have your back, you have mine." She'd smirk, wondering and hoping he'd accept this rather reasonable deal with the rogue. "Does this sound to you?"

 

[Auchenai]

Idrian smirked ever so, as he had just the method to take the leader alive. The tradeoff was that the method in question would require him getting a bit closer to the person than comfortable in normal circumstances. However it would also solve the issue of them getting away as the method would render them far too tired to move. The dark mage flexed his fingers, the Hunger rising in his mind as he anticipated a rush of energy soon to come. His urges were well under control, though occasionally he did slip up and the desires overrode his common sense. He would make sure that was not the case this time.


A hand was offered out towards him and he stared at it for a moment, his red eyes briefly flicking towards his companion and seeming to weigh the offer. It was in fact not the offer he was weighing; it was the physical contact with the elf. His hands were concealed within his warding gloves; however just being close to someone physically could be torture for him. So rather than shake the offered hand he placed his own behind his back, clearing his throat ever so slightly and gathering his words.


“I find your truce acceptable, though unnecessary for you to offer it now. We did already agree to work together before coming here. Last I checked that agreement was still in place. I will not take any actions that would harm you and I expect nothing less than you to do the same.” The dark wizard stated, nodding before walking towards the exit to the keep.


“In any event it would be wise for us to leave early. Just after first light most likely we should meet at the stables for our mounts. I shall be retiring for the night, so I bid you good evening Miss Sharla.” Idrian stated, stopping at the main gate of the keep and offering the elf a slight incline of his head.


With that, and after hearing anything the elf might have to say, the dark wizard would then head back down the town’s streets towards the inn where he was staying. His mind was a blur of thought and contemplation, pondering over just what he was going to do with such a reward. Besides of course shoving his success down the throat of both of his parents, perhaps even take up a title. Lord Stormcloak had a very nice ring to it; he’d have surpassed his parents in that even as none in his family were nobility despite their storied history. Ah yes, tomorrow was certain to be the start of a wonderful adventure…

 

[hellreevus]

Sharla raised a brow when he didn't want to shake her hands, though she'd let it slide as he might have his reasons. The only thing that she seemed to care is that they were on the same page and they'll be able to work together effectively. This next job would require full cooperation, and hopefully along the way, there would be no screw-ups. She has yet to see the mage's power in action, though, and she was curious how powerful he was. The elf licked her lips in anticipation, as she'd quite excited on what was about to come.


"Then it's settled then, I'm sure with my speed and cunning and your.. magic, which I have yet to see, this will surely be an easy job for us, hmhm~" She chuckled, as she gave a smile at the man. "This could also possibly be my last job too.. I mean, 100,000 platinum is a whole lot of money, you know." She said, as the elf was giving off a dreamy-like vibe. She was already imagining herself being covered in the massive amount of golds and she was throwing it into the air happily.


Shaking off that brief thought of happiness, she'd nod towards the mage as they were about to leave until they had to meet again. She'd put on her hood once more, and began to walk within the shadows of the night. Idrian can only hear a distant and echoing chuckle, as Sharla was slowly vanishing. "Don't worry about me, I'll meet you there~ And please... Sharla will do~" The voice then slowly dwindled into silence before the man would find that the woman had completely disappeared. Tomorrow was going to be a really, really interesting day.

 

[Auchenai]

Idrian awoke the next day rather suddenly, jolting in the chair he had fallen asleep in. The chair itself was a stiff wooden thing, comfort clearly not being in the design and also wobbled unevenly. The dark mage had tucked it into a corner of his rented room, which was somewhat odd considering there was a perfectly good bed there. He stood slowly, straightening his aching back as he reoriented himself. His gloves were resting on the armrests, leaving his well-manicured fingers exposed. He could ‘taste’ the residual energy of the ones that had occupied the room previously; he could feel who that had been and what they had done to a vague degree.


To mute this, the man quickly replaced his gloves on his hands; flexing his fingers and sighing as he stopped involuntarily drain upon the world around him. He was not hungry this morning as a result, his unnatural form of feeding having done well enough to cleanse the room somewhat. It was nothing compared to an actually living vessel, but it was enough to take the edge off of morning hunger. The man took up his robe from around the chair and replaced it on his shoulders, tying it off with his sash easily enough. Finally he slipped on his boots and was ready to depart for the stables.


The man made his way out of the inn and started down the town road, the place much busier now that the sun was peaking over the horizon. The dark mage grunted as the beams of light dispelled much of the darkness, feeling much less powerful than he would at night. Even so the position of the sun had cast long shadows over the world, granting him still a considerable amount of options. Hopefully in three days’ time when they arrived at their destination the attack would be at night, when his powers were at their zenith.


His mind wandered to his companion as he made his way out of town and to the stables, going over her words from the previous night. It was true; he had yet to show her a single spell though there was a reason behind that. Idrian had been taught that announcing one was a mage was one thing, but showing one’s hand was another entirely. Doing the former created an aura of fear and mystery about one; the latter took that away to some degree and allowed others to form tactics against one.


His steps led him to a rather well kept and active looking stable yard, the smell of horses overwhelming his nostrils. Idrian crinkled his nose as he continued to approach, his gaze slowly searching about for Sharla. The man was certainly not late this particular time; he had made certain to arrive as the sun was beginning its climb. He certainly hoped that his elven companion had opted to do the same, the more daylight that was wasted; the more time was put between them and their reward.


“Sharla. Are you here?” He inquired, entering the stables after presenting the stablemaster with Lord Tydus’ document.