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Fandom A False Case of Redemption [The Witcher | Morris & Stone]

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StoneWolf18

Within the Depths of a Dream
[class name=stoneWrapper] margin: auto; max-width: 800px; background:url(http://www.designbolts.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/The-Black-Mamba-Super-dark-Crisp-Background-for-Website.jpg); background-repeat: repeat; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; [/class] [class=stoneImage] width: 300px; height: 500px; background:url(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/363784768694910976/485999134776492053/2e567f6ad9d824aebc0fffdd4fc0f114.png); background-size: 100%; [/class] [class=stoneHeader] font-size: 40px; text-align: center; color: black; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBox] flex: 1; width: 50%; height: 498px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBackground] width: 95%; height: 470px; background: rgba(80, 80, 80, .4); overflow: auto; [/class] [class name=stoneText] color: #d9d9d9; text-align: left; padding: 5px; [/class] [div class=stoneWrapper][div class=stoneImage][div class=stoneHeader]Genevieve Caron[/div][/div][div class=stoneTextBox][div class=stoneTextBackground][div class=stoneText]“Sir, I need you to lie still for me.” Genevieve’s voice was calm yet firm, trying to get older man on the cot before her to stop moving.

With a grunt he stopped thrashing around, but didn’t look all that please about it. “Just ‘urry up, will yah? My wife’s o’er there an’ I want to make sure she’s al’ight.”

Nodding, the young-appearing woman had rolled the sleeves of the simple cloth gown she wore, the apron over it already splattered with all sorts of bodily fluids as she inspected the man’s broken arm. It had been a couple days since the vampires had attacked Toussaint, and it seemed as if more townsfolk were crawling out nowhere to seek medical treatment.

With a practiced series of motions, she was able to bind the wound and make a basic splint out of the supplies on hand. It was nothing more than scraps of wood and cloth, but it was still much better than leaving it to heal on its own, if it would.

“There.” She offered him a smile. “Now you may see your wife.”

Without so much as a nod of thanks, he stood and hobbled his way over to where her cot was. The older woman had a rather awful claw wound across her torso that looked a few days from infection, but at least she was here.

Genevieve had been about to search for a new patient to tend to when a familiar voice called out. “Julia! Julia where have you gone now…”

Even after so many years, the name (and the identity she had created around it) still felt false.

The nurse moved out of the crowded tent, breathing in a lung-full of fresh air- and doubling over with a rough coughing fit.

“There you are!” The woman searching for her finally came into view through the fairgrounds-turned-hospital. It was Liona, another field nurse and someone who she had grown rather close to over the last few years.

She met her by the mouth of the text (one of many) and drew her over to the side. Genevieve leaned on her while she caught her breath, giving her a sheepish smile. “Good afternoon.”

Liona shook her head with a mock sigh. “My, at least you’re up and walking today. Yesterday I could hardly wake you.”

“Julia” offered a subtle shrug while moving a few wayward strands of hair out of her face. “You know why, sickly since birth.” This bittersweet lie she was living, while everyone else took her at face value… it was better this way, of course, but she still wondered if they would be so amiable towards her if they knew who she truly was.

“And yet you’ve been working since dawn.” Liona huffed. “Go now clean up, get something to eat, and take a short break, these people are stable enough to last an hour or two.”

Reluctant, but willing and in need of a small break, Genevieve gave a slightly larger grateful smile before heading off through the rows of tents and throngs of people.

Morris Morris
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Unbeknownst to Genevieve, her current disposition in Toussaint would soon change, and the driving force behind this turn of events was approaching at full gallop.

Stahler Hust of Leyda, one of the few surviving members of the once renowned Dun Banner, along with two fellow mercenaries - Jean Brass and Silas Wiczky - were riding towards the once fabulous tourney grounds, which have been converted to a field hospital in the wake of the Night of Long Fangs; a befitting name to mark the historic battle, considering the staggering amount of bloodsucking monsters involved. He maintained a stoic expression, but he couldn't help but reminiscence over how he winded up with his current assignment.

Not all that long ago, he was wasting away in a tavern - specifically, the Silver Salamander Inn - like so many other poor, sodden souls whom history does not record nor remember, despite the fact that they have been there to shape it. His current set of travelling companions were likewise dispossessed in allegiance and demeanour. They were hurling about beer, dice, gwent cards, old war stories, and plenty of insults regarding one anothers' loyalties and parantage, when all of sudden, they were approached by some hooded stranger, proposing an offer that seemed way too profitable to refuse.

After Silas made sure the fellow wasn't an elf, and Jean checked him for mirrors and spoons (due to whatever convoluted superstitions he claimed to believe in), Stahler, despite any and all odds, found himself interested enough to keep sober and pay attention. Whilst the stranger kept his identity a secret, the target of his task was made abundantly clear: a Nilfgaardian sorceress by the name of Genevieve Caron, currently residing in Toussaint, under a false name and enduring a punishment. She needed to be lured out, apprehended and transported to a certain location. To bypass the intense scrutiny of Touissant's knights and retainers, along with any would-be escort by the sorceress' side, the three sell-swords were given forged documents and some forward payment to buy matching uniforms - gold and red, with a black trim, and the heraldry being an unlikely scene of a rooster strangling a falcon atop a windmill whilst the Sun was rising. Good thing the stranger bought them a few more rounds of mead, otherwise they never would had been willing to agree to this shit.

But what was most intriguing - from Stahler's perspective at least - is that the stranger went out of his way to justify the kidnapping.

"She's a lovely sight, but do not be fooled for a moment. Anything about her is a facade, appealing for ignorance. Surely you've heard the rumours of the plague that erupted within Nilfgaard, bringing the war to a standstill, if temporarily? That was not natural. It was her. But there she is, under supervision, but alive, biding her time until her despicable cohorts at the academy will smooth things over and she can begin anew. Mages are a blight upon the world, and such miscarriage of justice should not be allowed to stand..."

This brought Stahler out of his resigned frowning, to the verge of righteous anger. All of sudden, he remembered his old hatred. He would not stop to contemplate the implications of the stranger's claims - how Genevieve may have inadvertedly saved the North in a fashion - but rather, felt disgust at such an indiscriminate deliverance of death. He was roused from his stupor, along with his fellows, not only for the promise of cash - but at the chance to truly harm someone deserving...

...

"Stahler? Come to your senses, beaver-head, we're almost there!" - Silas yelled at him, bringing him back to the present. Stahler reaffirmed his hold on his horse's reins, focusing his attention to the matters at hand.

"Alright, alright. You two both remember the cover-up, right?" - he inquired.

"Yeah, sure." - Jean nodded. - "We're the Valiant Peckers company-"

"Roarers. Valiant Roarers, for Melitele's sake." - Stahler corrected him. - "Recognised and approved by His Imperial Majesty's Ministry of Interior Affairs."

"Of course, of course." - Silas waved dismissively. - "Look, it's clear you are best at keeping all that flair and garbage in your head, so you'll do the talking."

"Planned on that anyway, but upon inspection we have to keep it coherent." - Stahler reminded them. - "Do not mess this up."

...

Getting through the perimeter guards was an easy affair. Afterwards, however, they simply got lost in the humongous, disorderly mess that became of the tourney field. It took them about an hour of walking, questioning, assisting with operations (up to and including amputations) until finally, *finally* someone could direct them to a certain nurse by the name of Julia Bulwark. She was enjoying a light meal with another nurse by her side, chatting about gods know what.

"Bulwark, eh?" - Jean picked his nose. - "Her bust size says otherwise. Shows why women are bad at hidin' undercover."

"Says you who almost outed us whilst flirting with Matilda de Vermentino of all people. While she was operated!" - Silas grunted under his breath.

Stahler hushed his comrades with an angry, indignant look and a forceful wave of hand. They had to get their act together. He observed his would-be victim from afar. She matched the description he was given, but looked... less than impressive. Almost miserable. Sickly even. Might be the constant exposure to dimeritrium, but he was no expert on that subject. Very well then - now or never. He stepped forth, walking up to Genevieve, coughing (in)discreetly, adressing her:

"Pardon me, ladies, for obstructing the enjoyment of your lunchtime. But as it would happen, my companions and I are looking for someone, and our task is of urgent nature. Would one of you happen to be... Julia Bulwark, was it?"

He tried his best at appearing distinctly detached and professional, much like he would during a military parade. He hoped his facial muscles and eyes would not betray his intents.

StoneWolf18 StoneWolf18
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[class name=stoneWrapper] margin: auto; max-width: 800px; background:url(http://www.designbolts.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/The-Black-Mamba-Super-dark-Crisp-Background-for-Website.jpg); background-repeat: repeat; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; [/class] [class=stoneImage] width: 300px; height: 500px; background:url(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/363784768694910976/485999134776492053/2e567f6ad9d824aebc0fffdd4fc0f114.png); background-size: 100%; [/class] [class=stoneHeader] font-size: 40px; text-align: center; color: black; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBox] flex: 1; width: 50%; height: 498px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBackground] width: 95%; height: 470px; background: rgba(80, 80, 80, .4); overflow: auto; [/class] [class name=stoneText] color: #d9d9d9; text-align: left; padding: 5px; [/class] [div class=stoneWrapper][div class=stoneImage][div class=stoneHeader]Genevieve Caron[/div][/div][div class=stoneTextBox][div class=stoneTextBackground][div class=stoneText]Genevieve ate minimally as they spoke, wanting to make sure she could keep the bread and broth down before eating a full meal.

“I can’t believe how many were unable to stay in their homes during the attack…” Liona sighed as she watched people mill around tents. Some filed with the treated, others seeking urgent care, and finally the mortally wounded.

Swallowing her current mouthful, Genevieve gently nudged her companion, trying to redirect her gaze. “Many can’t resist defending their homes.” With a brief gesture to the mug, plate, and bowl before her the sorceress added “You need to eat yourself.”

After she tore her eyes away from the sight, the other nurse began to eat herself.

They were able to continue with some more general small talk when the rough clearing of a throat at caught Eve’s attention. As she looked up, she couldn’t help but frown at the sight of gold and red armor, as well as a… particularly strange crest.

“Yes that is me. May I be of service in any way?” She watched the man in the lead closely, though remained where she sat. They didn’t appear to be injured… maybe they had brought men in that needed immediate attention.

Morris Morris
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[class name=stoneWrapper] margin: auto; max-width: 800px; background:url(https://www.sketchuptextureclub.com/public/texture_d/0023-brushed-dark-steel-metal-texture-seamless-hr.jpg); background-repeat: repeat; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; [/class] [class=stoneImage] width: 300px; height: 500px; background:url(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/007/720/165/medium/feng-hh-.jpg?1508079760); background-size: 170%; background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; [/class] [class=stoneHeader] font-size: 40px; text-align: center; color: #939393; margin-top: -10px; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBox] flex: 1; width: 50%; height: 498px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBackground] width: 95%; height: 470px; background: rgba(80, 80, 80, .4); overflow: auto; [/class] [class name=stoneText] color: #d9d9d9; text-align: left; padding: 5px; [/class] [div class=stoneWrapper][div class=stoneImage][div class=stoneHeader]Stahler Hust[/div][/div][div class=stoneTextBox][div class=stoneTextBackground][div class=stoneText]Stahler cast an inquisitive glance at Liona, pondering the relation between the two women for a moment. She was most likely unaware of her accomplice's background; Jean and Silas were on the lookout for patrols, but looking behind his shoulder, Stahler came to the same conclusion as them: security was suspiciously sub-par. Shouldn't this dangerous witch be under constant supervision? Or has she perverted the minds of her captors in some manner to pay her no heed? But if so, why not seize the opportunity to escape? There was no time for deeper dwellings on the issue, however. Therefore, Stahler turned back to Genevieve:

"As a matter of fact, miss, we've been requested to deliver a message to you, and escort you out of Toussaint post-haste." - with that said, he handed over a scroll container, and within in, a letter sealed with the mark of the Nilfgaardian sun. - "The content is strictly for your personal viewing only. We are to depart within the hour. If you need assistance with packaging, let us know. We'll be waiting near the entry to the tourney grounds."

He bowed his head ever so slightly as he and his fellows took their leave. Stahler couldn't help but smile a bit; he knew the content of the letter, and felt a tinge of admiration for the deceitful bait dangling in front of their prey.

Their employer was, by his admission, a maker of forgeries, and the documents were a testimony to his skill, insofar as Stahler could tell. He wrote a letter concerning Genevieve Caron - that with the span of time her punishment involved so far, and in consideration of her good behaviour, her case has been proposed for a revision by advocates of her academy, to be re-admitted to the fold of imperial mages, or have her sentence otherwise eased significantly. She were to appear before the Court of Imperial Law in Cintra province - and, judging by the date tinted on, she better not risk being late.

Stahler held onto the other half of their bait - a false letter of employment, for providing armed escort to Genevieve until she reached the provincial border. This was ought to be enough to dissuade accusations and senses of alarm. Then, when they were a safe distance away from Toussaint's populous half, the kidnapping could commence.

"Say, that was a fine piece of red-haired ass next to the witch. Suppose we could take her for a ride?" - Jean chukled whilst they were getting back to their horses.

"Oh, would that we could..." - Silas fantasised. - "But let's be realistic, were she to knew who that was beside her, she'd run screaming, I bet."

"Look at it from a different side." - Stahler added in a low tone. - "Next time you come around, you can share quite a story with her."

They exchanged a crude laughter at the prospect.

StoneWolf18 StoneWolf18


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[class name=stoneWrapper] margin: auto; max-width: 800px; background:url(http://www.designbolts.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/The-Black-Mamba-Super-dark-Crisp-Background-for-Website.jpg); background-repeat: repeat; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; [/class] [class=stoneImage] width: 300px; height: 500px; background:url(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/363784768694910976/485999134776492053/2e567f6ad9d824aebc0fffdd4fc0f114.png); background-size: 100%; [/class] [class=stoneHeader] font-size: 40px; text-align: center; color: black; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBox] flex: 1; width: 50%; height: 498px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBackground] width: 95%; height: 470px; background: rgba(80, 80, 80, .4); overflow: auto; [/class] [class name=stoneText] color: #d9d9d9; text-align: left; padding: 5px; [/class] [div class=stoneWrapper][div class=stoneImage][div class=stoneHeader]Genevieve Caron[/div][/div][div class=stoneTextBox][div class=stoneTextBackground][div class=stoneText]Cautiously she would've taken the scroll case after hearing what the man had to say. Removing the letter from inside, her eyes narrowed at the sight of the emblem sealing it. What did Nilfgaard want with her now? She hadn't done anything that could've garnered their attention.

As she scanned the letter, it was clear Liona was somewhat worried. Watching the company of men depart for now she couldn't help but try and peak over the top of the parchment. "Is everything alright?"

"Yes..." Eve breathed. She shut the letter closed with a snap before she could glean any information from it. They were... really going to review her case? She had sent countless letters with each being either ignored or a standard rejection being sent back in its place. But... why wasn't Erald the one informing her? He was her superior and "jailor," and she was certain that he would've been more than happy to inform her of such news.

While she contemplating what was happening, her bewilderment clear upon her face, Liona frowned. "What is it, Julia?"

Right... she didn't know.

Taking a breath she would've glanced around, spotting a small tent nearby that was empty, and dragging Liona inside.

"Julia, what's going on?"

"Shhhh..." After making sure the flaps of the tent were secured, she turned back to gave her with a nervous expression painted onto her face. "Here..."

Liona read over the letter, her brow furrowing as she did. "Genevieve Caron... the sorceress that released a plague?"

Eve offered a grimace-bloated nod, appearing ashamed. "I was framed and sent to work as a nurse. I.. found myself genuinely enjoying it after a little while which is why I'm here..."

The sorceress expected to be screamed at, or for the other woman to react violently. Instead Liona watched her for a good few moments before a gentle smile spread across her lips. "I've treated mages before, that necklace you wear is similar to the dimeritium shackles I've seen."

This response confused her. "You're... not..."

With a chuckle she shook her head. "Hardly. I suspected something was up when you didn't always respond to Julia being called, realizing what metal that amulet is made from, and how you never took it off. And no, you don't have to ask. I'd love to travel to Cintra with you."

It took a moment for this to register. But once it did, she was loosely embracing the woman in front of her with a huge grin. "Thank you.."

Soon enough the pair emerged, moving towards their lodgings to pack the few belongings they had while talking in hushed excited tones between them.

--

Eventually they approached the entrance to the tournament grounds, searching for the company that was to escort them.

Morris Morris
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[class name=stoneWrapper] margin: auto; max-width: 800px; background:url(https://www.sketchuptextureclub.com/public/texture_d/0023-brushed-dark-steel-metal-texture-seamless-hr.jpg); background-repeat: repeat; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; [/class] [class=stoneImage] width: 300px; height: 500px; background:url(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/007/720/165/medium/feng-hh-.jpg?1508079760); background-size: 170%; background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; [/class] [class=stoneHeader] font-size: 40px; text-align: center; color: #939393; margin-top: -10px; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBox] flex: 1; width: 50%; height: 498px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBackground] width: 95%; height: 470px; background: rgba(80, 80, 80, .4); overflow: auto; [/class] [class name=stoneText] color: #d9d9d9; text-align: left; padding: 5px; [/class] [div class=stoneWrapper][div class=stoneImage][div class=stoneHeader]Stahler Hust[/div][/div][div class=stoneTextBox][div class=stoneTextBackground][div class=stoneText]Soon enough, the meeting escalated into an awkward standoff. Following a brief series of introductions, Genevieve's supposed handler, captain Erald de Voorn exchanged suspicious, almost accusative glances with Stahler, as did their respective subordinates.

"Oooh..." - Jean blinked at Liona with unmistakable fancy in his eyes. - "Well, toss me in a river and call me a drowner. She's coming, too?!" - he was obviously joyous at the prospect.

Stahler rolled his eyes. Great. They are barely at the opening phase of the plan and already they are facing complications.

"Does the lady even know what's she's getting into?" - Silas asked bluntly.

"Coming along is entirely her decision." - Erald de Voorn declared. - "She means quite less trouble than the company I'm facing."

"Is something the matter, captain?" - Stahler sneered. - "We are doing our work in good will, but I can clearly see your contempt."

"Is it the crest?" - Jean Brass butted in. - "I bet it's the bloody crest."

"While that is admittedly ridiculous, that is by far the least of my concerns." - Erald proclaimed. He was a stalwart, broad-shouldered man, quite intimidating to face; and whilst he had sincere kindness in him, he was rather careful about with whom he'd share it. Much as he would had been delighted for Genevieve to finally be let free, there were quite a few oddities with this setup which bothered him. - "As Genevieve Caron's official supervisor, I should have been first to be informed of this turn of events, yet I am not even referred to in this letter. And you three are most certainly not subjects of His Imperial Majesty. I recognize your accents, mongrels. You are all Northern scum, don't you dare deny it-"

In response, Stahler answered by unfolding their (naturally false) letter of employment and handing it over. - "If you are done spouting your patriotic sentiments, sir, you might as well hear our side of the story. Even you must be aware how thinly the legions are spread between the northern frontier and around Skellige. Which means more employment for the likes of us. As for the summons, well, I'm not going to debate over the mysteries of buerocracy, but as her keeper doubtlessly you will be called upon to testify."

"Or maybe they just deemed him too unimportant to mention." - Silas whispered half-aloud to Jean, deliberately riling Erald's and the other guards' ire.

Erald furrowed his eyebrows at the remark. - "Well, at any event, consider yourselves dismissed. We'll get to Cintra by ourselves just fine without a flock of cocks ahead of us."

"Respectfully, captain, the roads have gotten perilous this past week, in case you haven't noticed." - Stahler stepped up, his face contorting with frustration; he didn't even have to pretend it was anything other than genuine. - "Now that Toussaint has been ravaged, beasts and bandits alike are on the prowl. We lost two comrades to get this ploughing message across, all for the sake of this, this..." - he almost spat in Genevieve's direction - "This plague-dabbling harlot! " - he pointed at her, trying to keep his voice a low hiss, but clearly dripping with venom. He turned back to the Nilfgaardians after that: - "Yet here we are, because the Valiant Roarers are men of their word." And if you keep slandering our good name any further, captain, I swear I will challenge you here and now, because nobody cheats us and our families out of coins for a job we've signed up for!"

Stahler pulled aside his fur cloak, revealing one of his weapons: a cavalry axe. He much preferred it over swords, for while it needed strength and effort to wield, there was no reliable defense against it - a fact any fighter worth their salt would recognize, hence it had a certain value at intimidation.

The scene was getting rather public; bypasser started becoming onlookers, terrified murmurs and hurried steps began surrounding the group. Some more laid-back people, eager for a spectacle, started placing bets already, not particularly caring for the matters involved. Suddenly, Erald was loosing his footing; he did not expect this comeuppance from a man wearing a laughable rooster-themed crest. In addition, inadvertedly their need for departure has grown exponentially - if people start asking questions, they may as well soon start calling for a lynching. Letting out a resigned sigh, he gave up his protest.

"Leave your weapon be, sir. You've made your point."

"If it puts you at ease, captain, you need not suffer our company long." - Stahler pulled back his cape, settling his voice down to a more neutral one. - "We'll just be your escort up to the provincial border, where Lady Caron's protection will be transferred to the state troops... and we'll get our coins and part ways."

"Let us make haste then." - Erald turned aside to mount his horse. - "The faster, the better."

...

The travellers journeyed up northwards, bypassing the Corvo Bianco vineyard, then the Cockatrice Inn, Dulcinea's Windmill, along with a few other famous landmarks. Conversations and gossiping were kept to a minimum, until nighttime was starting to creep in. The horses were getting tired, and thus their riders slowed the pace. Stahler and Erald debated where and when to make camp, settling for somewhere beyond a certain trading post. But to be on the safe side, they would make a stop amongst the merchants first for extra supplies.

In an opportune moment, Stahler would approach the healer, Liona. He had an inexplicable bad feeling about taking her along. He was perturbed to a degree over her willingness to come along with the witch; he wanted to clear up what this was about.

His companions, on the other hand, didn't pay much heed at the moment. Jean Brass was getting acquainted with a (quite possibly soon to be unfortunately dying) Nilfgaardian guard over how, outside of the blood and viscera splattered nurse outfit, Genevieve looked kind of cute. The guard was in agreement, but remarked he still wouldn't touch her with a ten-foot pole. Gods only know what festering poxed could she have stuffed down there. Silas was beating someone in gwent to get a discount on ale, and his newfound black-clad buddies either facepalmed at the notion or actually cheered him on, courtesy of his Nilfgaardian deck versus the trader's Northern Kingdoms pack.

"Excuse me for a moment. Liona, was it?" - Stahler adressed her softly. - "Please accept my apologies if I had startled you back there. And... I wish you to know that normally, I would never be against having someone of your talents alongside us, but I wish to know something, if you do not mind." - he kept a brief pause, glancing aside to see if the subject involved was outside hearing range. - "Are you aware who that woman is? And if so, why come along? Surely you'd find better occupation here than over in Cintra."

StoneWolf18 StoneWolf18
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[class name=stoneWrapper] margin: auto; max-width: 800px; background:url(http://www.designbolts.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/The-Black-Mamba-Super-dark-Crisp-Background-for-Website.jpg); background-repeat: repeat; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; [/class] [class=stoneImage] width: 300px; height: 500px; background:url(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/363784768694910976/485999134776492053/2e567f6ad9d824aebc0fffdd4fc0f114.png); background-size: 100%; [/class] [class=stoneHeader] font-size: 40px; text-align: center; color: black; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBox] flex: 1; width: 50%; height: 498px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBackground] width: 95%; height: 470px; background: rgba(80, 80, 80, .4); overflow: auto; [/class] [class name=stoneText] color: #d9d9d9; text-align: left; padding: 5px; [/class] [div class=stoneWrapper][div class=stoneImage][div class=stoneHeader]Genevieve Caron[/div][/div][div class=stoneTextBox][div class=stoneTextBackground][div class=stoneText]The exchange with Erald was... tense. Genevieve did find it strange that he hasn't been informed of this change of plans at all, especially when he had been her main line of communication back to Nilfgaard itself. Liona felt a similar way and, when things were getting heated, had been about to step in when Eve gently took her arm to hold her back.

The issue resolved itself, thankfully without a fight or going too public. She wasn't all that interested in finding out what would occur if her true identity was revealed. But even if these men were of a private company and were just doing the job for some coin... they did seem to have quite the opinion of her. Well, most people who knew of her "crimes" did, but this man in particular sounded like he had a score to settle.

--
Liona and Eve spoke softly to one another as they rode, keeping their voices down as the others were remaining silent themselves.

"What is up with that one..." Liona asked whilst quietly gesturing to Stahler. "He's... aggressive."

Genevieve shrugged. "This is a normal reaction... to both sorcerers and myself..."

It was clear that she wasn't exactly happy with that response, but fell silent so they didn't attract any more attention.
--

When they decided to stop for supplies before camping for the evening, Eve mostly kept to herself. She had caught bits of the conversation Erald and Jean were having and, even though she didn't speak up, was clearly dismayed.

Liona on the other hand had been drifting about, all while keeping an eye on the sorceress before Stahler approached her. As he spoke, she regarded him with a raised eyebrow swathed in skepticism.

"She explained to me what is currently happening and who she is, yes." The genuine nurse replied in a hushed tone of her own. "However, if she says she is innocent, then I would be inclined to believe her. After all, we've gotten to know one another rather well over the past few years." A slight smile tugged at the corners of her lips while she said this, assuming the man would understand what she was implying. A moment passed before she would've given her head a small dismissive shake. "Nay, this is my decision. I wish to Travel with Genevieve, so I will."

Morris Morris
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[class name=stoneWrapper] margin: auto; max-width: 800px; background:url(https://www.sketchuptextureclub.com/public/texture_d/0023-brushed-dark-steel-metal-texture-seamless-hr.jpg); background-repeat: repeat; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; [/class] [class=stoneImage] width: 300px; height: 500px; background:url(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/007/720/165/medium/feng-hh-.jpg?1508079760); background-size: 170%; background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; [/class] [class=stoneHeader] font-size: 40px; text-align: center; color: #939393; margin-top: -10px; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBox] flex: 1; width: 50%; height: 498px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBackground] width: 95%; height: 470px; background: rgba(80, 80, 80, .4); overflow: auto; [/class] [class name=stoneText] color: #d9d9d9; text-align: left; padding: 5px; [/class] [div class=stoneWrapper][div class=stoneImage][div class=stoneHeader]Stahler Hust[/div][/div][div class=stoneTextBox][div class=stoneTextBackground][div class=stoneText]Stahler raised an eyebrow in perplexion. By Melitele, this was worse than he imagined. Poor nurse's morals have been completely eroded by the witch's seductive wiles. Who in their right mind would actually trust a sorceress so deeply, let alone one already condemned beforehand? Truly, this was sickening perversion at work.

...admittedly, Leona could just be into women by nature, in which event he really couldn't blame her. There had been, are, and always will be far too many men who wouldn't keep their pants up around sorceresses, overlooking their widespread and well-deserved ill reputation. Beauty, after all, often turns rational jugdement to mush.

"Your... loyalty to her is admirable, I suppose," - he started replying - "as is your conviction of her innocence. Pray that it is not misplaced, though, miss Leona. Much as I wish you were entirely in the right in your judgement, no magician is to be trusted. How many mages have you heard of conjuring rains in times of drought, as opposed to smashing the harvest with hailstorms? Bringing warmth to fireplaces in the winter, instead of burning homes and men to cinders? Opening portals for others' safe travels as opposed to pushing someone who spites them through one and dropping them in a lake? Such power corrupts the heart all too easily."

He looked over his shoulder, gazing at Genevieve for a brief moment before turning back to Leona with a sigh. He could not find it within himself to accuse her of some guilt; she seemed so honest in her sentiments. Judging by how lax the Nilfgaardians and her were acting around Genevieve, she could have persuaded them to remove her dimeritrium amulet and ran off. Yet she ignored such options. Could it be...?

...no. That cannot be so.

The wicked hag just would prefer to be acquitted legally, rather than be a fugitive on the run, so she can return to her diabolical machinations without hinderance. Since mages are long-lived, she can afford to be patient.

Yes. That's most definitely it.

Still, that left a question open. If Leona knows the truth about Genevieve, she could be a loose end if not kept within reach. This had to be adressed. But first and foremost, he had to put their exchange to a (hopefully) uplifting end.

"Eh, well. It's not in my place to judge Genevieve - that will be for the courts. I'll just keep an eye on her all the same. Were she to get her restrictions lifted, she may not stay the same person you got to know her as. Still... know that I too wish to be proven wrong on this matter."

"Are you two going to buy something or just stand in front of my store all damn day?" - an elderly merchant yelled at them in a cranky voice.

Stahler Hust cast an annoyed glance, but upon inspecting the wares a bit closer, he got an idea - and purchased a couple of riding pillows, handing them to Liona afterwards.

"Lady Leona, please accept this as an apology for my earlier outburst... and to commemorate your friendship with Genevieve. I wish it to be enduring - who knows? If you stand by her, she may just prove worthy of second chances."

He didn't quite wait for any response on Leona's part, striding to a different part of the market when he heard snickering. Turning aside, he realized it was Erald. His features hardened.

"What is it that's so humorous?"

"The fact that, despite your resentment, you still bought an arse-pillow for a mage. One with flower decor, no less."

"In loving memory of all the lives she shat upon." - Stahler grumbled, before he went on his way. He had something to discuss with his companions: the nurse, too, must be dealt with...

StoneWolf18 StoneWolf18
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[class name=stoneWrapper] margin: auto; max-width: 800px; background:url(http://www.designbolts.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/The-Black-Mamba-Super-dark-Crisp-Background-for-Website.jpg); background-repeat: repeat; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; [/class] [class=stoneImage] width: 300px; height: 500px; background:url(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/363784768694910976/485999134776492053/2e567f6ad9d824aebc0fffdd4fc0f114.png); background-size: 100%; [/class] [class=stoneHeader] font-size: 40px; text-align: center; color: black; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBox] flex: 1; width: 50%; height: 498px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBackground] width: 95%; height: 470px; background: rgba(80, 80, 80, .4); overflow: auto; [/class] [class name=stoneText] color: #d9d9d9; text-align: left; padding: 5px; [/class] [div class=stoneWrapper][div class=stoneImage][div class=stoneHeader]Genevieve Caron[/div][/div][div class=stoneTextBox][div class=stoneTextBackground][div class=stoneText]Genevieve had been quietly lingering about, generally keeping to herself save for some small talk with a few merchants and patrons when Liona walked over towards her. Noticing the disgruntled look upon her face, she figured something as up.
“Is everything alright?” She eyed the riding pillows she held as she approached, taking a step closer.

The nurse shook her head slightly, holding the pillows as if they were infected with a disease. “I hardly trust these men... their captain has tried convincing me to see you in the same dimmed light he does.”

A sigh escaped Eve’s lips as this was said. “Of course he is, similarly to everyone else.”

Liona has a frown creep onto her lips. “I hardly see a reason to act like a prick with a stick stuffed up-“

As she started, the sorceress took another step closer and spoke into her ear. “I would keep your voice down. Let’s move somewhere else...”

They were attracting a little attention, which is why Genevieve lead them off a little ways to speak privately.

She knew why Liona felt this way... and she was more than grateful for one genuinely kind person. One that had sat by her bedside when she had days she couldn’t function, or that kept her going when a day grew long and tiresome. Eve could’ve easily removed this amulet and ran from the hellish existence it was causing but she didn’t. Instead obediently spending years beneath its control and enjoying the honest work she had been doing. Liona was the only one who understood that and more...

Off from the main cluster of individuals, Liona had set the gift down to wrap her arms around Genevieve. She doing the same and leaning against her. They stood in silence. Eve’s head resting beside hers as she briefly closed her eyes and allowed herself a small genuine smile before whispering softly. “You don’t need to worry about me...”

Hopefully once they reached Cintra, all of this would clear itself up.
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[class name=stoneWrapper] margin: auto; max-width: 800px; background:url(https://www.sketchuptextureclub.com/public/texture_d/0023-brushed-dark-steel-metal-texture-seamless-hr.jpg); background-repeat: repeat; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; [/class] [class=stoneImage] width: 300px; height: 500px; background:url(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/007/720/165/medium/feng-hh-.jpg?1508079760); background-size: 170%; background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; [/class] [class=stoneHeader] font-size: 40px; text-align: center; color: #939393; margin-top: -10px; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBox] flex: 1; width: 50%; height: 498px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBackground] width: 95%; height: 470px; background: rgba(80, 80, 80, .4); overflow: auto; [/class] [class name=stoneText] color: #d9d9d9; text-align: left; padding: 5px; [/class] [div class=stoneWrapper][div class=stoneImage][div class=stoneHeader]Stahler Hust[/div][/div][div class=stoneTextBox][div class=stoneTextBackground][div class=stoneText]The rest of the journey went without any significant hitch. Erald's group bought a few days' worth of supplies, whilst Stahler and his companions were more stingy with their coins - nonetheless, after everyone finished packing, they rode undisturbed and managed to journey through the rest of the planned distance. They were almost out of Toussaint entirely, using the northward road stretching beside the Sansretour Marsh, when they decided to halt and make a camp. Stahler proposed to captain Erald that the Nilfgaardians stand first guard in the night - in part as a sign of trust, and because, unlike them, he, Jean and Silas were travelling the whole day beforehand. Erald just shrugged and agreed. The three mercenaries went to their own bunks, silently exchanging short remarks before pretending to go to sleep - or in Jean's case, succeeding in falling asleep, complete with a horrendous onslaught of snoring. Well, at least this way there was no risk of of the other two becoming unaware in case their intended victims decided to just pack up and leave without them.

In all honesty, though, Stahler didn't believe he could give himself a rest. Not now, when the hour of indulging his anger is so nigh. It was more tenuous to just try and appear relaxed. Their attack, when commencing, had to be a complete surprise...

The first hour passed. He felt his eyelids were getting heavy. He rolled to his other side, blinking, repeatedly opening his eye just a slit. He saw the Nilfgaardians' campfire, notably bigger than the one they packed. Good thing it seemed far away. He didn't like big fires. No, more than that. He absolutely resented them. Ever since... ever since...

Despite his efforts, Stahler's hazed vision claimed its due. The last survivor of the Hust bloodline found himself in a familiar place. He was striding in Aedirn, in a great battlefield, alongside trusted comrades, for the glory of Kaedwen. And yet, there was no comfort to be found in this familiarity, only malice; for she was surrounded by shadow and flame. The ground was drowned in a mixed layer of dried blood and scattered ashes; the trees wept stygian amber, and the soil rotted wherever they dripped. Sulfury smoke circulated about, grotesque humanoid shapes within dancing around him in a frenzy of fire. He beheld the great champion of their nation, Vandergrift triumph over his nemesis, Seltkirk, only to fall to his knees weeping; for he too, was rendered helpless in the shower of searing comets that ascended from the heavens and charred flesh to coal and metal to molten slag.

There was he, Stahler Hust, scared like a child, scratching and crawling away, ashamed, vulnerable, afraid, tearing off his armor piece by piece as he ran, even some clothes which caught fire, to be rid of the heat, the hellish heat, and yet try as he might, there were flames about, flames, nothing but flames, burning his flesh...

"Oi, wake up, Stahler! Wake!" - Silas slapped him back to consciousness. Stahler was breathing heavily. Upon regaining his self-control, he grimaced and spat on the ground. Goddamn nightmares. Like he needed a reminder. The Nilfgaardians around him snickered, muttering mockery in their native tongues.

Begrudgingly, he accepted being helped up by Erald. For whatever reason, the captain didn't laugh at him. Perhaps, he wasn't always here, in the peaceful confines of the empire's prosperous vassal states. Perhaps he knew how deep some scars can reach, and how they never heal. Under different circumstances, Stahler would have appreciated this notion.

But not tonight.

The Black Ones tucked themselves in, and Stahler's group paced around, the three of them keeping some distance from each other to not raise suspicion. Jean settled by a tree, Silas next to their own campfire, carving a piece of wood into what appeared to be either a bottle plug or a dildo. Stahler stayed closest to their hosts. They waited patiently. Hours passed. The Moon crept along its pathway amidst the sea of stars. Everyone was soundly asleep, save for the mercenaries.

Stahler cast a couple of small pebbles to signal his partners in crime. The time has come. Daggers were drawn, mouths were gagged by heavy, gloved hands and throats were slit in silence. The two women, they left alone; Stahler saved Erald for last. He actually took the effort to cut the strap holding his scabbard, pull away his weapon, then gently nudged him awake.

"Oh captain, my captain." - he began - "Please wake up, I beseech you. Something dreadful is afoot."

"H- huh?" - Erald rubbed his eyes and yawned. - "Whatever do you-" - his jaw was left agape as he witnessed the corpses of his men. His instincts kicked in, and he reached for his sword, only to grasp at thin air. - "Treachery!" - he yelled... or rather, wanted to yell, as three sharpened blades punctured him.

Stahler pushed his knife through the throat first: - "Tell Menno Coehorn the Dun Banner sends its regards."

"As does the Free Company." - Silas plunged from behind, underneath the rib cage.

"And the Poor Fucking Infantry, to boot!" - Jean declared enthusiastically, pushing his own sidearm to the left lung.

Erald expired in the midst of horrible gurgling sound, dropping to the uncaring cold ground like a red-leaking sack of flour. This was ought to stir the ladies awake... not that Stahler minded. He was grinning with glee, for he etched the frightened expressions of the Nilfgaardian scum into his memory - now, on to the main event of tonight's atrocities...

StoneWolf18 StoneWolf18
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[class name=stoneWrapper] margin: auto; max-width: 800px; background:url(http://www.designbolts.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/The-Black-Mamba-Super-dark-Crisp-Background-for-Website.jpg); background-repeat: repeat; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; [/class] [class=stoneImage] width: 300px; height: 500px; background:url(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/363784768694910976/485999134776492053/2e567f6ad9d824aebc0fffdd4fc0f114.png); background-size: 100%; [/class] [class=stoneHeader] font-size: 40px; text-align: center; color: black; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBox] flex: 1; width: 50%; height: 498px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBackground] width: 95%; height: 470px; background: rgba(80, 80, 80, .4); overflow: auto; [/class] [class name=stoneText] color: #d9d9d9; text-align: left; padding: 5px; [/class] [div class=stoneWrapper][div class=stoneImage][div class=stoneHeader]Genevieve Caron[/div][/div][div class=stoneTextBox][div class=stoneTextBackground][div class=stoneText]Liona and Genevieve had bedded down not far from the rest of the group, but still a moderate ways away. The nurse didn’t exactly think they were far enough away still... but after a little arguing and a perfectly timed bought of fatigue on the sorceress’ part, they settled in.

They lay close to one another, Liona remaining awake as Eve couldn’t help but fall asleep due to the day of unexpected travel.

It was an unknown amount of time later than she felt someone lying beside her. Sleepily she opened her eyes, expecting Liona to have moved closer when she was greeted with a smirking Cynthia.

“Good evening, dear...” She purred smugly, a hand reaching out to brush stray hair away from her face. “Have you slept well?”

Immediately Genevieve recoiled, trying to get away from the woman, but she was hardly fast enough. Her bare shoulders were grasped by the older sorceress’ hands. Tugging her closer to herself and pushing the back of her head down to burry it in the skin just below her collarbone. “My, you need to relax, Genevieve...”

The soap has had used plagued Eve’s senses, silken sheets nearly burning as they entwined the two women together. Another nightmare... yes. Like so many others this whore used to make sure she was still in control even after all these years. In each and every one she struggled, but of course that was hardly how it was going to end...

Genevieve woke with a start, tears pouring out of her eyes as she tried to gain control of her breathing. With rapid breaths she forced herself up onto her hands and knees where she crawled a meager distance before retching, emptying her stomach of all she had eaten that past day. This minor disturbance apparently woke Liona, who she found kneeling beside her within a few moments.

“A... nightmare...” Eve mumbled, melting into Liona’s arms as they were wrapped around her.

“You don’t need to speak about it.” The nurse replied softly. “Just-“

She was cut off by the distinct sounds of death originating from where the Nilfgaardians had been sleeping. Lifting her head up, both women watched as Erald was brutally slaughtered by the three men that were supposed to be traveling with them to Cintra.

“I-I knew it!” Liona hissed, glaring at them from across the campsite they had made.

Genevieve was silent for a short moment, eyes wide as she murmured “The amulet... take it off...”

The nurse shook her head hesitantly. “But wouldn’t it-“

“They’re going to kill us, Liona. Take the damned thing off!”

This got her attention, Liona delicately taking the chain and moving it over her head. It had been years since she had casted any sort of spell, but still she couldn’t hesitate now. Recalling her studies she looked to the corpses that littered the sleeping rolls and, with a grimace, tried to force them awake.

Almost immediately Eve’s eyes rolled back into her head as her body went limp in Liona’s arms. But as intended the bodies around the three stirred and began to stand, shambling their way towards the mercenaries.

Erald’s corpse had shuttered beneath them before an incomprehensible moan was forced out of his lips as he clawed up towards the nearest man.

“By the gods...” Liona breathed, her gaze towards between looking down at the sorceress she held and the display not far from her.

Morris Morris
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[class name=stoneWrapper] margin: auto; max-width: 800px; background:url(https://www.sketchuptextureclub.com/public/texture_d/0023-brushed-dark-steel-metal-texture-seamless-hr.jpg); background-repeat: repeat; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; [/class] [class=stoneImage] width: 300px; height: 500px; background:url(https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/007/720/165/medium/feng-hh-.jpg?1508079760); background-size: 170%; background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; [/class] [class=stoneHeader] font-size: 40px; text-align: center; color: #939393; margin-top: -10px; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBox] flex: 1; width: 50%; height: 498px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; [/class] [class name=stoneTextBackground] width: 95%; height: 470px; background: rgba(80, 80, 80, .4); overflow: auto; [/class] [class name=stoneText] color: #d9d9d9; text-align: left; padding: 5px; [/class] [div class=stoneWrapper][div class=stoneImage][div class=stoneHeader]Stahler Hust[/div][/div][div class=stoneTextBox][div class=stoneTextBackground][div class=stoneText]As the bodies of the fallen stirred to a desecrated un-life, the mercenaries' boastful confidence was quick to turn to instinctual dread, their own faces turning so bloodless pale, almost as if they were about to die themselves. Which would very well be the case if they faltered to act.

Luckily, a decade of active combat experience was on their side. They were not faint-hearted cowards to soil their pants at the sight of horror, but rather, they learned to channel strength from desperation unthinkingly, and swing their armaments wildly and repeatedly in the hopes of the newfound menace diminishing to (hopefully harmless) pulp underneath the onslaught.

Jean was quickest on his feet, distancing himself with a quick leap whilst screaming in a rather feminine-sounding tone. He reached for his main weapon, a simple knobbed mace, frantically clanging it against helmeted heads and leather-covered limbs, sometimes accompanied by cracking sounds. Silas, on the other hand, was almost dragged down when one of the risen dead caught him by the ankle; he put his long dagger straight through the thing's eyesocket, to not much effect. Gaining himself time by repeatedly kicking the corpse's increasingly disfigured face, he finally managed to draw his falchion and began chopping himself free, sending pieces of meat and sinew, sometimes whole body parts flying, too out of his mind to care about the fact that he was getting covered in a small barrel's worth of blood.

"Back! Back with you!" - Jean was yelling - "I know I am shit, but can't you wait 'till I go to hell by myself for fuck's sake?!"

"Bloody! Effing! Whoresons!" - Silas exclaimed, pacing his words in accordance to his blade swinging. - "What! Devilry! Is! This!"

Stahler himself managed to stay the most level-headed out of the three; albeit he couldn't have anticipated this turn of events, by any means, his training pulled him through the worst effect of the shock. Even as captain Erald rose up to exact (an admittedly well-deserved) terrible revenge upon his killer, Stahler has cut the fastening threads on his cavalry axe, and put it to use. He used the axe head's impact to push Erald back down, then switched his hold to strike with the pick-like head opposite of the axe blade, burying it in Erald's shoulder, and rupturing a wide gap between the arm and the joints. Putting his entire force into the next move, he sent Erald's body rolling away like a ragdoll, even though he felt an enormous strain in his own arms after the deed. He gasped for air, as he gazed about and realized they were achieving a fat load of nothing - even as they hacked and whacked the deceased Nilfgaardians apart, they would just not stay put.

"Damnable sorcery..." - he muttered. - "Damn... the witch, of course!" - teeth grinning, he rushed at another creeping corpse - which was approaching Leona, obviously not distinguishing her from the rest of the intended victims - simply striking through the neck and nailing it to a tree with the pick-head of his weapon, before stomping up to the nurse himself:

"You! You removed the dimeritrium amulet, dumb wench! Put it back on!" - he shouted at her, dagger pointed at Leona's forehead. - "Don't you see now who it is you're protecting?! Put it back on, before these wretches would tear and bite us apart!"

He was acting more in the heat of the moment than thinking rationally, but some part of him still kept him away from just violently manhandling the innocent nurse. He hoped, despite all the turmoil around, he wouldn't have to use force, and that she would come to her senses and do the right thing...

Or else he would have to.

StoneWolf18 StoneWolf18
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