Island Toroa

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#3 @Larsi ​

As the trio swept into the pub, their presence hushed the boisterous chatter. Conversations dwindled to whispers, and curious glances darted between the patrons. A palpable tension hung in the air, a blend of curiosity and apprehension.

The locals, a motley crew of Toroa residents and weathered pirates, eyed the newcomers warily, their conversations resuming in hushed tones. Fragments of their murmurs drifted towards the trio, each word laced with suspicion and speculation.

"Who are these strangers?" one voice rasped. "Never seen 'em before."

"Their garb is not from Toroa," another observed.

"Travelers, perhaps?" suggested a third. "Or troublemakers?"

"I heard they seek someone," whispered a fourth. "Pirates, they say."

"Keep an eye on 'em," cautioned a final voice. "Just in case."

The whispers swirled around the room, a tempest of speculation, curiosity, and cautious concern. The trio's arrival had ignited a quiet buzz of gossip, captivating the attention of the pub's patrons.

Behind the bar, the bartender, a stout man with a face etched by years at sea, observed the newcomers with a keen eye. Despite the palpable tension, he offered a polite smile. "Welcome to The Laughing Gull," he greeted, his voice friendly yet tinged with a hint of wariness. "What can I get you folks?"

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #3 @God_Usopun​

Within seconds of the three agents entering the pub the atmosphere changed. Where before the voices had been loud and cheerful, raucous some might even say, it now quieted down. Many of the different eyes fell on them, searching and measuring them. Voices that before had carried across the room now spoke in hushed tones as it seemed like someone was squeezing the entire establishment. Now, they had their attention, they just had to hope it was the kind they had wanted to begin with.

Jason and Juliet pretended not to pay any attention to it, acting aloof, above it all. Yet the Cipher Pol 9 agent was listening to the surroundings with his observation haki, able to hear better than that of a normal person. And so it was that he was able to pick up certain parts of the conversation.

One of them mentioned they were here in search of pirates. That one required a good amount of self control not to react to. They had hired the ship as businessmen, not as Cipher Pol agents, how had these people found out what they were searching for? He put the thought in the back of his mind, focusing on the moment currently.

Darr was playing a different character that fit him better. Whereas the other two were acting aloof, above it all, he was not. He spoke with the confidence of a man that saw himself above the others in the room, but not so much that he couldn’t talk to them to make them do his bidding. And so it was that when they had passed the small crowd of patrons at their seats and tables, Darr was the one to speak when the bartender spoke.

What can you get us? He said, the words leaving his mouth as quick as his brain could think them. To his side Jason contemplated sitting on one of the stools, but before he could even finish the thought Darr had overtaken him, speaking loud enough that anyone in the pub could hear. Well, first of all we need a section where we can enjoy some privacy, we have some business that we need to discuss between one another. Clean, of course.

We are all starving, so send us a platter of your best, well prepared meat and freshest vegetables. My partner Sir Davenport here prefers an aged cognac, I will have some whiskey. Lady Davenport likes her wine red, a good vintage. Darr paused, as if taking a breather, before continuing. We also need someone who is well versed with this island and its people, amenities and the like. If you could find us someone that can answer questions, that would be much appreciated.

Now, my throat is a bit parched from talking so much so soon after stepping ashore, can you pour me a mug of ale? Darr put his hand inside his coat and pulled free a handful of coins, far more than would pay for such a simple drink and slammed it palm down onto the counter between him and the bartender. The coins clattered and bounced, spilling out from under his hand before settling onto the polished wood.

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#4 @Larsi ​

As three figures strode into the bustling pub, an abrupt hush fell over the boisterous crowd, replaced by a ripple of hushed whispers and curious glances. The once lively atmosphere was instantly charged with an undercurrent of tension.
Two newcomers maintained an air of detachment, their eyes scanning the room with disinterest.
In contrast, the third individual exuded an aura of confidence and authority. With a commanding presence, they navigated through the crowd and addressed the bartender directly. Their assertive words outlined their privacy, sustenance, and local assistance requirements, leaving no room for ambiguity.

The newcomer produced a handful of gold coins to emphasize their importance and wealth, letting them clatter onto the counter with a resounding thud. The sudden display of riches further intensified the palpable tension in the room.
The bartender, a seasoned veteran of the maritime trade, initially responded with practiced hospitality, his face etched with welcoming lines. However, as the list of demands grew, a subtle transformation occurred. The lines on his forehead deepened, and a flicker of disapproval darkened his eyes.

His initial warmth gave way to a blend of reluctance and muted defiance. The welcoming features now held a hint of skepticism, silently challenging the newcomers' audacity. His expression mirrored the unspoken tension beneath the surface – the conflict between complying with their demands and resisting their presumptuous behavior.
Exhaling heavily, the bartender acknowledged their requests, his tone laced with a hint of weariness. "Well, I'll see what I can arrange for ya, but mind ye, I'm no servant," he remarked, his words carrying a subtle assertiveness.

With a deliberate gesture, he slammed a mug of ale onto the counter, the sharp sound echoing through the pub. The action served not only as fulfillment of the request but also as a pointed reminder of the boundaries the newcomers should not cross. Beneath the surface of his compliance, a simmering defiance hinted at a refusal to be dictated to by those who dared to enter his establishment with such arrogance.
In a dimly lit corner, obscured by shadows, a man sat quietly observing the unfolding scene. The sudden hush and the palpable tension caught his attention, his eyes widening in fear and recognition.

The revelation sent shockwaves through him, disrupting the delicate balance he had so carefully maintained. His mind raced, reevaluating the situation at hand. Plans meticulously laid out now seemed jeopardized by the unexpected appearance of these strangers. He knew he had to tread carefully, navigating the unpredictable atmosphere with the utmost caution to maintain the veil of anonymity that had shielded him for so long.

His eyes darted around, scanning the room for potential escape routes. The weight of the situation pressed down on him, urging him to remain inconspicuous and avoid drawing any unwanted attention. A mental checklist of his belongings and escape plans formed rapidly in his mind. He decided he needed to bide his time, staying low-key until the opportune moment to slip away unnoticed from the watchful eyes that now lingered uncomfortably close.

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #4 @God_Usopun​

Darr listened to the words the barkeep said, but only smiled. He might say these things, but to a man like what the agent was pretending to be, everyone was one of two things. A servant or a nuisance. Money moved the world and the people within it, and if they refused to move, they simply had to be moved by force, a nuisance.

Darr himself also found some personal joy in antagonizing the barkeep, but he hoped the man wouldn’t spit in their food or worse, though anything short of poison would probably not register to the agent in all reality. Still, he was glad for the simple ale in front of him. He knew there was no way this would be tainted, simply a nice and cheap pint, paid for by his bosses.

They had been given a nice stipend to pay for their cover story, allowing them to actually act like rich businessmen so that they would seem believable. Hopefully they would attract attention and draw out the pirates quickly, Darr thought as he grabbed the mug of ale and raised it to his mouth, drinking more daintily than he would have preferred.

Jason meanwhile, stood holding Juliet’s arm still, trying to seem like they weren’t impatient. In reality, the Cipher Pol 9 agent had started sensing out the crowd to see what they were feeling and how they were reacting. A lot of them were curious, a few of them angry. What did draw his attention was the figure that he hadn’t actually spotted, hidden in a dark corner. The man was experiencing fear, and possibly recognition? Yet what mostly drew his attention was that the man seemed that he might be even stronger than Jason. What was going on here?

He leaned over to Juliet and whispered in Juliet's ear. The man in the dark corner, does he look familiar?

Juliet turned and smiled, grabbing Jason in a hug. Looking over the shoulder, she tried to get a glimpse of the man, whispering her response in Jason’s ear. I can’t tell, his face is hidden. Why?

Just a feeling.

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#5 @Larsi​

Once convivial and lively, the tavern's atmosphere grew hushed as an imposing figure emerged from the tavern's shadows. Tall and broad-shouldered, he commanded attention with his stern expression and piercing gaze, radiating an aura of authority that demanded respect.

As he approached the trio seated at the bar, his disapproving tone cut through the air, laced with a hint of disdain. "Your conversation with the bartender didn't go unnoticed," he said, his words carrying a veiled warning. "Hospitality may not be the grandest here in Toroa, but it's genuine. Remember that, newcomer."

His words hung heavy in the air, sending a chill down the spines of those present. "If trouble is what you seek, Toroa is not the place to find it," he continued his voice a low growl. "However, trouble has a funny way of finding those who invite it. Consider this a friendly piece of advice: tread carefully, for trouble may just find its way to your doorstep if you're not mindful of your actions."

His piercing gaze swept across their faces, emphasizing the weight of his words.

Suddenly, a slender young girl with an air of grace and respect approached them. "Lauriano sama, everything is ready," she said in a soft, respectful voice.

Spoiler

"Is that so?" Lauriano responded, his tone laced with anticipation. "It seems like this place will experience some turbulences. Let's not linger around."

With a final, sweeping glance at the trio, Lauriano turned and strode towards the exit, his imposing figure casting a long, intimidating shadow. The man clad in the shadow at the corner of the pub, sensing the impending turmoil, decided to follow in Lauriano's wake, his presence as enigmatic as his motives.

Once outside, Lauriano initiated the conversation, addressing the man who just followed him. "You go and let them know who just got here, Ezio," he commanded.

"Does this mean you are giving up on the plan, Don Lauriano Vicci?" replied the man named Ezio.

"Tell Minucci that we had to find a different island since the world government got an eye on this one," retorted Lauriano. "As for the Rumbar, let them know that some more agents are here, then retreat. We can not afford a face-off with them now. Especially with what we are planning."

He continued, holding his chin with his hand, "Sol, lead the way."

The young lady, who had been quietly observing from a short distance, slightly bowed before turning around to lead them towards the port. "We leave in an hour," Lauriano added. "If you make it to the port before then, you are welcome to board with us. Otherwise, try your best to leave this island without confronting them."

And so the small meeting concluded, with both parties going in opposite directions, leaving behind an air of uncertainty. Few were aware that the head of the Vicci Familia was currently on this island with his trusted aide Sol Martine and that they would be meeting Ezio Minucci, younger brother of Fico Minucci.

Spoiler: Fico Minucci

---------------------------------- Level 85 -----------------------------------------
Fico Minucci is a shadowy figure reigning over the criminal underworld with a cold, calculating demeanor. Dressed impeccably in tailored suits that conceal a network of tattoos hinting at a turbulent past, Fico exudes an air of authority that inspires respect and fear. Behind his polished exterior lies a mind as sharp as a blade, always strategizing the next move in a chess game where the stakes are life and death. Fico Minucci's empire spans various criminal enterprises, from smuggling and extortion to money laundering, making him a formidable and enigmatic force in the criminal underworld.

Spoiler: Lauriano & Sol

---------- Level 70 & 65 -----------
Don Lauriano Vicci, the patriarch of the centuries-old Vicci family, commands respect that echoes through the corridors of power and crime. With a regal bearing and a gaze that betrays the weight of generations, Lauriano is a man who has mastered the art of influence and control. Dressed in tailored suits that speak of old-world elegance, he wears the scars of a family legacy built on the ruthless pursuit of power.

Lauriano's grip over the drug and slave trading enterprises is both a testament to the family's enduring legacy and a reminder of the darkness that stains their history. Behind his calm, composed facade lies a mind as cunning as it is ruthless, honed by decades of navigating the dangerous alliances and betrayals that come with such a tumultuous legacy.

&

Sol Martine, the trusted aide and personal assistant to Don Lauriano Vicci, is a living embodiment of loyalty forged in the crucible of the Vicci family's traditions. Chosen from childhood after triumphing in the rigorous tournament of might, Sol's unwavering dedication and exceptional skills set her apart as the perfect confidant for the family patriarch.

With a stature that belies a swift, controlled grace, Sol carries herself with quiet strength and discretion. Her sharp, observant eyes miss nothing, and her every move is executed with a precision born from years of rigorous training and unwavering devotion. Clad in tailored suits that mirror the family's affluence, Sol exudes an air of silent authority, always ready to anticipate and fulfill Don Lauriano's needs.

Beyond her physical prowess, Sol possesses an acute understanding of the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that define the Vicci empire. Her loyalty to the family is unwavering, and her role extends beyond that of a mere assistant; she is a confidant, a strategist, and a guardian of the family's secrets. Sol Martine is a living testament to the Vicci tradition, a formidable force at Don Lauriano's side, ensuring the family's legacy endures under her watchful gaze.

Spoiler: Ezio

-------------------------------------- Level 62 -------------------------------------
Ezio Minucci, the trusted right-hand man of his elder brother Fico, is a vital force within the criminal empire they've built together. Despite the shadows surrounding their world, Ezio stands by Fico's side, embodying loyalty and cunning.

Ezio's allegiance to Fico goes beyond familial ties; it's a partnership grounded in trust and a shared vision for their criminal enterprise. He is willing to do whatever it takes to protect the interests of the Minucci legacy. Whether negotiating with rival factions or overseeing the day-to-day operations, Ezio is an indispensable figure, ensuring that the Minucci name continues to sway in the dangerous world they've chosen to navigate together.

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #5 @God_Usopun​

As he was talking to Juliet, Jason sensed yet another presence emerging out into the room. He turned his head to see another nicely dressed man stepping into the light. The stranger gave of a strong and commanding presence, clear even to those that weren’t able to use haki. Darr and Juliet both cautiously turned their eyes towards the newcomer, but Jason himself turned to face the new arrival properly. What was going on here?

Jason listened in silence to the words the man spoke, while also noting the reactions to the other people in the room. While the three agents had had the effect of annoyance and maybe even disgust, this man seemed to demand respect and fear. Even Jason himself felt himself frozen in place for a short moment, frozen in place from a chill down his spine.

He snapped free from his trance when a woman approached the stranger, speaking quietly to him. Jason had to gather himself quickly, and by the time he had, the whispers between the two had concluded, without him being able to listen in. So instead he did what he thought best in the moment, regaining his composure and putting the mask of his character back on.

I appreciate the concern, but trouble has a way of finding us regardless. Jason replied, a cocky smirk on his face. He grabbed Juliet’s arm again, leading him away from the stranger as he too was leaving the room. Jason sensed the stranger exit the door behind him as he once more faced the bar. Finally, he turned towards the bartender and gave him his attention, as if he was shaken by the confrontation. Which he was, but he decided his character definitely should be too. So… who was that gentleman?

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#6 @Larsi​

A shuddering sigh escaped the bartender as the imposing figure exited. "Friend, that's a man you steer clear of in these waters. He casts a shadow long enough to drown trouble before it even thinks to swim."

Peering around to cloak their whispered exchange, he continued, "Part of a potent crew, fingers dipped in more pies than a baker on a feast day. And their methods? Let's say ruthless is an understatement. Keep your head low and avoid unwanted eyes. Toroa may wear a friendly face, but its teeth are sharp. Crossing him ain't a game you want to play."

His gaze sharpened, assessing Jason's reaction. " Best keep the locals sweet. Trouble's a hungry shark, drawn to those who wave their fins."

The Cipher Pol agents, Lauriano Vicci, and their tense exchange – Ezio Minucci couldn't let the Rumbar Pirates be blindsided. He wove through Toroa's vibrant throng, eyes vigilant, seeking a quiet corner. Finding one, he activated a Den Den Mushi, the secure frequency humming to life.

"Yo, it's Ezio," he murmured, eyes flitting across the crowd. "Things just went south. Cipher Pol's in Toroa. Smellin' like they're on the hunt. The deal's on ice for now. Stay frosty. Keep your profiles lower than a crab at high tide. I'm bailing with Vicci in an hour. Heads up, be ready for anything. Capisce?"

Click. Ezio's focus shifted to his escape with Lauriano. The Rumbar Pirates warned and were on guard.

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #6 @God_Usopun​

Jason listened intently to the words of the bartender, yet outwardly his attention seemed to be on Juliet, caressing her as if to calm her from the confrontation. She played her part well, leaning on her would-be husband, allowing herself to be comforted.

The bartender spoke in hushed tones, speaking without specifics about the man that just had exited. It seemed to the agent that this man was not who he was searching for, though it might be useful to establish a connection or contact HQ about them. That would have to wait until later, however.

I do not believe that man is someone I am here to deal with. Jason whispered with a smirk, only loud enough that Juliet and the bartender could hear his words. I appreciate the warning, and I think we got off on the wrong foot, pardon my partner here.

Darr seemed to not be listening, still scanning the room for other dangers while drinking his ale. The man’s hands were barely shaking anymore, he had managed to get that under control pretty quickly. Yet his usually loose mouth was only devouring alcohol at the present.

Could I pay you ten times the price for a drink for me and my woman? Jason whispered, turning to face the bartender properly. If it includes some info on a group known as the Rumbar Pirates? We have heard tales of them and would like to know what we would be dealing with here.

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#7 @Larsi​

The silence in the Salty Siren stretched as taut as a mainsail in a gale, punctuated only by the rhythmic slosh of rum in its barrel. The bartender's gaze, weathered as the driftwood carvings adorning the bar, lingered on Jason, weighing his intentions like a merchant appraising rare pearls.

"Ten times the price for a drink and a tale of the Rumbar Pirates, is it?" His voice, roughened by countless nights of shared secrets and boisterous laughter, hinted at the sea's own song. "A bold request for a stranger to these shores. Toroa guards its whispers well, and those pirates are as elusive as moonbeams on the waves."

He traced a gnarled finger along the worn grooves of the counter, his eyes distant as if conjuring memories from the depths. "They're not the kind you'll find flaunting their colors in broad daylight. They move in the shadows, their laughter mingling with the creak of rigging and the crash of midnight storms. Their tales are woven into the very fabric of this island, whispered in the rustling palms and the hiss of the tide."

Leaning closer, he lowered his voice to a conspiratorial murmur, his breath carrying the tang of salt and spiced rum. "If you truly seek more than rumors, you'll need to offer more than coin. Bring me a token of their trust, a shard of their past, or a promise dipped in the ink of the moon. Only then might the sea relinquish its secrets, and the Rumbar Pirates reveal their true colors."

A challenge glinted in his eyes, as tempestuous as the waters surrounding Toroa. "Are you willing to brave those depths, friend? To dance with the shadows and bargain with the tides? If so, then perhaps we can strike a deal."

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #7 @God_Usopun​

Jason had expected something from the bartender on his offer of payment for information, but what he was given was something both more and less at the same time. At the mention of the Rumbar Pirates the bartender seemed to transform into a storyteller of old, spinning a tale of shadows in the night. Of the depths of their reach and their elusive presence.

Then the bartender did something even more curious, speaking in tones as hushed as the dust that settled on his shelves. He presented Jason with a challenge, a cryptic dare, to perhaps bring him something important to the pirates. Only then would he be privy to their truth, or so it would seem.

What was this place? Jason was sent here to investigate his fellow agents’ disappearance and quell the pirates, but clearly there was more at play. The presence of the dangerous man before, now this bartender.

Who are you really? Jason whispered, deciding his facade had likely been seen through already, leaning forward to match the bartender. I’ll take your challenge, whatever it is, but what is your stake in this? You don’t strike me as aligned with the man from before, nor the pirates, yet you flaunt your own influence on events and information here.

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#8 @Larsi​

In the serene symphony of the Laughing Gull, the bartender's eyes, fathomless pools holding galaxies of untold stories, narrowed like a cutlass glinting in the moonlight. He leaned close, the air around him crackling with unspoken promises.

"For a whisper whispered to the shadows, seeker," he murmured, his voice a clandestine melody, "I'll offer you a tattered thread of Toroa's tapestry."

The marketplace, a labyrinth of secrets veiled in commerce, awaited. "Seek Seraphina," he rasped, "her stall a jewel box bathed in moonbeams, where trinkets catch whispers of the night."

He paused, letting the weight of his words settle, heavy as anchors in the murky depths. "Within her grasp, a silver locket, an heirloom etched with whispers, a key to unmasking the pirates' cryptic tongue. Deliver this token, and Toroa's secrets, like shy sirens, might surface for your song."

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #8 @God_Usopun​

Jason listened to the man’s words, trying his best to hide his annoyance. For some reason the man had decided to suddenly start speaking in tongues, using flowery language to obscure his meaning. As if it would be less conspicuous for a bartender in a crowded room to talk nonsense like this.

Despite his own thoughts, the agent kept his mouth shut, listening intently and trying to discern any meaning from it. Finally, the strange man decided to divulge some actual information, giving Jason something to work towards.

Thank you. Jason said, nodding in appreciation. He pushed himself back away from the counter, his hand revealing a small pile of coins as promised. You don’t happen to have any more pointers towards this woman. Seraphina?

Either way, thank you. Jason stepped towards the door, motioning for Darr and Juliet to follow. Both did, the latter grabbing his arm as they strode out into the city itself once more, looking for this jeweler.

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#9 @Larsi​

The air in the Laughing Gull grew heavy as if the whispered exchange between Jason and the enigmatic bartender had woven a tangible spell. The challenge, stark and audacious, hung in the thick silence: venture into Toroa's labyrinthine marketplace, confront the elusive Seraphina, and reclaim the silver locket, a whispered key to the Rumbar Pirates' encrypted past. The bartender's eyes, fathomless pools in the dim light, mirrored a silent pact - a dance with shadows demanded more than a coin; it craved an ember of trust. In the pub's hushed corners, where secrets clung to the scent of salt and spiced rum, the odyssey into Toroa's web began. The Laughing Gull, a weathered sentinel of countless clandestine exchanges, stood witness to the developing saga - a tale waiting to be etched onto the very map of the West Blue.

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #9 @God_Usopun​

Jason stepped out into the open air once more, practically feeling the freedom awarded to him out here. The others seemed to feel the same, visibly breathing a sigh of relief, before composing themselves. Still holding Juliet by the arm again, Jason motioned for Darr to follow. After looking across the crowd outside, he picked out a woman that seemed to know her way around the town, yet not moving with too much purpose.

Hello there, my lady. Jason said, acting the gentleman he was supposed to be, a smile on his face as he tipped his head to her. Could you tell me where I might find a jewelry shop? I am looking for something for my own madame, I have heard good things about a woman named Seraphina.

The woman seemed to be caught off guard, taking a moment to collect herself before curtsying to the three strangers. She mumbled a few words, letting them know that the shop they were looking for were only a couple buildings down. Once more Jason bowed in thanks, as did Darr, leaving the woman to her own tasks. A minute later the three of them reached the shop they had been directed to, Darr pushing open the door for the other two.

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#10 @Larsi​

The quaint chime of a bell, a gentle annunciation of their arrival, tinkled as they entered Seraphina's jewelry shop. The air held a symphony of scents: the whisper of precious metals, the sweet sigh of polished gemstones, and a touch of something magical, like starlight captured in a vial. Shelves adorned with intricate trinkets winked like constellations against the midnight-blue walls.

Behind the polished counter stood Seraphina herself, an artist whose presence seemed to hum in tune with the art she crafted. Her gaze, warm as hearth fire and sharp as a jeweler's eye, met theirs when they approached. "Welcome, travelers," she said, her voice a melody that echoed among the tinkling chimes. "What brings you to my little haven?" Her fingers, nimble and sure, continued their dance with a delicate silver chain, weaving magic into metal.

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #10 @God_Usopun​

The small shop opened up to the three agents, revealing its collection of treasures that were kept within. Darr held the door as Jason led Juliet inside, the latter looking around with a glee that might not even be acting. As the door closed behind him, Jason turned his head towards the woman who was speaking to him. He pasted on a courteous smile, nodding his respect to her and taking off his hat.

Good day. Jason said, stopping a few meters inside as Darr walked past, pretending to be looking at jewelry, but likely was scouting around. I am looking for something particular and I was told you might be in possession of it.

A silver locket, Jason stepped closer, his demeanor cool and calm. Old and with certain marks etched into it. You would not happen to have such and item, perchance?

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#11 @Larsi​

Seraphina's shrewd gaze dissected Jason, her apprehension cloaking her like a second skin. With a delicate gesture, she laid aside her work, her fingers intertwining thoughtfully. "A silver locket, hmm? Aged, whispering stories with every etch?" Her eyes darted away, perhaps gauging the accurate measure of his desire.

An unsettling hush descended as her voice dropped to a murmur, each word laced with secrecy. "Such trinkets rarely see the light of day," she confided, her voice barely above a whisper. "They hold histories known only to those who dance in the shadows of Toroa's forgotten past." A furtive glance swept the room, searching for unseen ears.

"If you yearn for such a relic," she began, her tone laced with a veiled warning, "understand its worth transcends mere silver. It embodies the essence of buried secrets, echoing this island's hushed narratives." Her expression flickered, morphing from curiosity to guarded caution. "Parting with it requires knowledge of your motives. What compels you to seek the whispers of Toroa's concealed tales?"

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #11 @God_Usopun​

Although Jason was relatively new in the field of intelligence, he had learned to play along with the various strange detours and personality quirks he encountered. After all, he had a role to play. Even so, as the woman was talking to him, he was quietly wondering if he was being pulled along on a wild goose chase. It was very likely that their cover was blown, and that this only gave the pirates more time to escape or plan against the agents. Banishing these thoughts for now, he decided to play along a bit more.

I am told it is a key. Jason said, his voice barely a whisper, his eyes not meeting Seraphina's. That it will open the doors that will allow me to purge a... danger from these lands. Jason didn't want to fully reveal himself, but he finally looked at the woman, hoping she would understand. To free up Toroa not only for ourselves, but also for all others.

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#12 @Larsi​

Seraphina's gaze held fast on Jason, her eyes boring into him like she sought the truth buried beneath his words. A tense silence stretched, and then a subtle nod from Seraphina conveyed either understanding or a begrudging acceptance of his explanation. Her demeanor softened, and she beckoned Jason closer with a gesture.

"The path you walk is shrouded in shadow," she murmured, her voice a confidential thread woven into the ambient hum of the shop. "If truth is your quarry, then mark my words. The locket you seek is not within these walls. It lies with the one who safeguards Toroa's silenced legacy."

Seraphina stepped closer, her gaze unwavering from Jason's. "Seek the docks beneath the night's cloak, where the Laughing Gull slumbers cradled by moonlit waves. There, you'll find a man whose eyes hold the depths of the abyss. Speak the words, 'Whispers untold,' and let the sea breeze carry them to him."

She pressed a small, intricately carved shell into Jason's palm. "Show him this shell, a testament of trust, and he may shepherd you through the labyrinth of Toroa's secrets. But heed this warning, seeker: tread cautiously, for where secrets hide, shadows dance."

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #12 @God_Usopun​

To Seraphina, Juliet and Darr it would seem that Jason was taking all of this in stride, but as the woman said the item he searched for wasn't here, he almost lost it. He was almost convinced the citizens were toying with him at this point. Were they all in on it? Was this some elaborate ploy to see how far he would allow them to string him along? Was it an elaborate trap to finally catch him off guard? Or was she somehow sincere?

Even as these thoughts were going through his mind, he listened to Seraphina's words in silence. In response he closed his hand around the shell and bowed his head and muttered a simple. Thank you.

He then turned and walked out the door, still holding Juliet by the arm, Darr trailing behind. As he was about to step through the doorway, he turned his head back to the woman, a smile on his face.

I shall remember this, I hope we will have further business in the future. If she was sincere, Seraphina would likely take the words at face value, if she was not she might see it as a threat in case they were betrayed. Jason watched for any reactions in her demeanor, before leaving the establishment proper.

It was a quiet trio that walked the streets to the hotel they had rented rooms in. Juliet and Jason shared one room while Darr had his own. Only after entering the hotel did they speak, still in hushed whispers not carried more than a few meters away, and only then for the time they took to ascend to their rooms. It was not until night fell that Jason and Juliet exited the hotel, leaving without Darr, the latter never having been to leave his room.

After a few minutes they reached the docks, and immediately they checked the registry, finding the ship known as the Laughing Gull. It was located off to the side of the docks, away from the streetlights, almost hidden in the dark of the night. As Seraphina said it was lit by the moon itself.

The two disguised agents approached, watched by a single figure clothed in blackness, hidden among the shadows of the buildings. Darr wore all black, including a hood. He had left out the window of his room half an hour before the two others, and under cover of darkness had scouted the docks, unable to find anything wrong. Yet

Jason and Juliet approached the ship, noticing a figure that sat by the vessel, almost unnoticed due to the dimness. Jason figured either the man knew what he meant, or he would just brush him off, so he held out the shell and spoke the two words. Whispers Untold.