Island Toroa

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#13 @Larsi​

Night shrouded the docks in an inky cloak, shadows clinging like phantoms. As Jason and Juliet neared The Laughing Gull, a solitary figure sat beside the ship, his form merging with the obsidian canvas. The agents approached with measured steps, senses taut for any tremor in the stillness.

There was a subtle shift. The figure turned, acknowledging their presence without a word. The dim light danced across his face, revealing eyes keen as moonlight on still waters. In response to Jason's cryptic query, the figure inclined his head a fraction, a silent understanding imbued with a weight of trust.

Unbroken by sound, the figure rose, movements as fluid as a shadow stirred by a breath of wind. He beckoned them onward, a silent guide leading them into The Laughing Gull's shadowy maw. The ship creaked softly, a whisper of secrets shared among the timbers.

Descending into the ship's hidden depths, the figure spoke in a voice mirrored the ocean's calm rhythm. "Whispers Untold, seekers of truth. Sent by Seraphina, are you?"

He led them to a chamber below deck, where lantern light revealed figures shrouded in shadow. The air crackled with unspoken tales, an unseen tapestry woven with threads of wariness and intrigue.

The figure turned to Jason and Juliet, his gaze echoing the moonlit water. "Speak your purpose, seekers. The Rumbar Pirates are whispers on the wind, but to unearth their secrets, you must first bare your own. What quest compels you into the night's embrace?"

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #13 @God_Usopun​

Speaking the words, Jason for a moment expected to be met with resistance again. To be led on another chase, to fulfill another quest. And that was even if this man was the correct one. To his relief, the man responded as expected, guiding the two of them inside the ship. Nearby, Darr watched from a distance, but snuck closer as they entered the vessel, careful to remain within the darkness.

As they entered the lower levels of the ship, the shadows felt more oppressive than up above, seeming to swallow the agents and their guide whole, to take them in and make them disappear in their grasp. Finally, the trio entered a new room, crowded by shadowy figures along the edges. None of them stepped forward to meet them, instead their guide turned to confront the two of them.

"Speak your purpose, seekers. The Rumbar Pirates are whispers on the wind, but to unearth their secrets, you must first bare your own. What quest compels you into the night's embrace?"

Jason considered his options for only a moment. He could lie, but it would not be very believable. He would not underestimate these people, thinking they or someone they knew had not overheard his conversation with the barkeep earlier. Anything he said would reveal that to be a ruse, as why would businessmen seek out these pirates? Besides, it seemed to the agent that their identities were already known, somehow.

We are agents of Cipher Pol. Jason said, his gaze scanning the room. To his side Juliet let her facade fall, the dainty lady replaced by the lithe moves of a trained killer, placing her hand on the firearm hidden within her dress. We are here to rid Toroa of the scourge that is the Rumbar Pirates.

Now the question was simply this, were these friends or foes? Would the woman who sold jewelry be visited again by Jason as revenge for betraying them?

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#14 @Larsi​

The weight of Jason's revelation settled on the room, a tangible thing the guide couldn't ignore. A flicker of concern, subtle as a moth's wing, darted across his face. The steely composure in his eyes fractured, replaced by a dawning unease. He acknowledged the gravity with a curt nod.

"A formidable force indeed," he echoed, his voice laced with caution. "Their presence here casts a shadow that stretches far beyond Toroa's tallest mast." He rose and began to pace the dimly lit chamber, his measured steps like those of someone navigating a treacherous, unseen path.

"Understand," he said, his tone turning grave, "crossing blades with them is akin to dancing with oblivion." A pause hung heavy in the air, thick with unspoken implications. He stopped, turning to face them squarely, his gaze unwavering.

"These are not mere brigands. They are woven into the very fabric of Toroa, seen by many as guardians against a creeping darkness that threatens to engulf the city." His words hung heavy, a challenge and a warning.

He turned to face them fully, his gaze unwavering. "Their stronghold lies atop the mountain, a fortress shrouded in mystery and legend. Yet, even now, their members walk among us, their presence a constant reminder of their sway over Toroa's streets."

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #14 @God_Usopun​

Jason studied the other man, and although it swift and faint, he still noticed the change in attitude. It seemed he was not aware of who they were, hopefully that was a good sign, that he had not been told by someone else.

Finally it seemed they would get some useful intel, as the stranger started revealing to them how the Rumbar Pirates had its roots spread all throughout the land of Toroa. He raised concerns about challenging them in combat, insinuating that it was tantamount to suicide. Jason was unsure if this was fear or a stern warning, though he leaned toward the former. He wasn't deterred, it wouldn't be his first mission like this. At least this time he was the hunter, not the guardian of prey.

Jason nodded, preparing to leave once the man told him where their stronghold was, but paused at the last warning. Once more he turned towards the stranger, approaching him with a relaxed pace.

You say they walk among us. Jason whispered, only loud enough for the other man could hear. His index fingers extended to points, ready to strike any enemy. Are they in the room with us now? I can rid you of them, as a thanks. I doubt they would let you go after providing such intel to us.

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#15 @Larsi​

The guide's eyes widened slightly at Jason's whispered offer, a mix of surprise and apprehension flickering across his features like a passing storm. He shook his head subtly, his expression a silent plea for restraint.

"No," he replied hushedly, his voice tinged with urgency. "They are not among us here, but their influence extends far and wide. To confront them openly would invite disaster upon us all."

His gaze darted around the chamber as if expecting shadows to coalesce into tangible threats at any moment. "I appreciate your offer, but violence begets violence, and bloodshed only serves to deepen the darkness that shrouds us."

He placed a hand on Jason's shoulder, his touch firm yet reassuring. "Our paths may be fraught with peril, but there are other ways to navigate the treacherous waters of Toroa. Let prudence be our guide, and patience our shield."

With that, he stepped back, his stance one of quiet resolve. "The Rumbar Pirates' stronghold lies atop the mountain, but tread carefully, for the road ahead is fraught with danger."

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #15 @God_Usopun​

Jason watched and listened in silence to the man. It clearly was not an offer the man had expected, nor wanted. A hint of a smile flashed across the agent's face, though whether that was meant to be threatening or not was unclear. It was gone as quickly as it appeared, shaken off as Jason nodded to the man, accepting the information given.

Thank you. He said, turning to leave and gesturing for Juliet to follow. I may be in touch later.

They departed, climbing up through the ship once more before coming out under the light of the moon. Coughing quickly, Jason sent a signal to Darr who has hidden nearby, letting him know to follow them, but to stay hidden. Once more Jason and Juliet walked into Toroa, their steps sure and determined.

Quickly they would traverse the streets of the city, making their way up the hills of the mountain. The throng of the city gave way to hints of wilderness. Trees, shrubs and tall grass dotted the side of the path as they slowly approached. A short distance away Darr crawled unseen, hidden by the foliage, while the two of them climbed in stately silence. Would they be interrupted before they reached the fortress, or would they reach the walls unimpeded?

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#16 @Larsi​

From his perch atop the fortress walls, a Rumbar Pirate observed the approaching figures with a mixture of vigilance and intrigue. Their purposeful stride and determined demeanor hinted at a mission of significance that demanded attention.

With practiced precision, he reached for the Den Den Mushi nestled within a pouch at his waist, his calloused fingers deftly navigating its familiar contours. Pressing the button, he initiated a secure communication channel, ensuring that his report would reach the ears of his superiors without interception.

"Captain," he grunted into the Den Den Mushi, his voice rough and edged with the salty tang of the sea, "we got ourselves a bit of a situation brewin' here. Shady characters skulkin' around like rats in the night, makin' their way up to our doorstep."

He squinted at the approaching figures, his grip tightening on the device as he continued his report. "Can't rightly say what they're up to, but they ain't locals, that's for damn sure. Might be worth keepin' an eye on 'em, just in case they're lookin' to stir up trouble."

A low growl of agreement echoed from the other end of the line, the captain's voice commanding and authoritative. "Stay frosty, but don't go startin' no trouble unless they give us reason. We'll be keepin' a weather eye on 'em from here."

With a grunt of acknowledgment, the Rumbar Pirate ended the communication, his gaze never wavering from the approaching intruders.

 

[Larsi]

Toroa Incursion #16 @God_Usopun​

It was as if quiet before the storm as the agents climbed the hill towards the fortress. The only thing that broke through the quiet dark was the sound of city nightlife far below, as well as the odd bird still out and hunting. Luckily for Darr none of them were startled by him as he snuck through the forest, though this was likely due to them being used to humans, not his skill in stealth.

The fortress ahead of them was eerily quiet, even considering how late it was, yet that only worried Jason more. What would meet them there? Should they attempt to sneak in? No, they were likely spotted already. Should he signal to Darr to try instead? He would likely know to do so on his own, if they managed to talk their way in.

As the duo stepped up to the gates, Darr crept near the edge of the foliage, gun in hand. Jason cleared his throat as Juliet's hand found her pistol, but didn't yet pull it free.

Good evening! Jason called out, breaking the silence. I am told there are people within this residence that I may be able to do business with.

 

[God_Usopun]

Toroa Incursion#17 @Larsi​

The night was shrouded in darkness, the only illumination from the flickering torches scattered around the fortress. From his vantage point on the battlements, the grizzled pirate watched the approaching figures with narrowed eyes, his hand resting casually on the hilt of his cutlass.

As the strangers drew nearer, he couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. What were they doing here at this hour? Were they friends or foes? His instincts told him to be wary, to trust no one in these treacherous times.

When the man called out, his voice carried on the whispering winds. The pirate remained silent, observing their every move. He watched as the gates creaked open, revealing the courtyard beyond, shadows dancing eerily in the dim light.

Stepping forward, he positioned himself in the shadows, blending seamlessly with the darkness. When the strangers entered the courtyard, he emerged, his gaze cold and calculating as he assessed them.

"What business do you have here?" he growled, his voice rough like the waves crashing against the rocky shore.