Encounterlogs
Harolds Odd Encounter Sr Aristotle 240731
One evening on Mariner's Highway, Harold found himself inexplicably drawn to a mysterious woman who beckoned him into the shadows. Despite his usual cautiousness, he couldn't resist her supernatural allure. She led him into an old building adorned with surreal paintings, where he felt a deep sense of relaxation and vulnerability. However, his fleeting suspicion of her motives came too late; after a moment of hypnotic trance, Harold realized he was being robbed. The woman took his wallet and valuiced him to leave, ensuring he'd forget the encounter as though it were a mere dream by the time he was far enough away. Shaken and unable to recall why he was upset, Harold's night ended in confusion and loss, a stark warning of the dangers that lurk in unexpected encounters.
In another corner of this mystical world, Korina, a local concocter of horrors, was interrupted by a call for help regarding a missing deliveryman named Daniel, last seen near Eliks Commune. Initially reluctant, her curiosity and the promise of reimbursement convinced her to investigate. Her journey led her to the bustling life of the local tavern, where she learned that Daniel might have ventured towards the flea market. Following a scent trail into the woods, Korina discovered Daniel under the spell of a siren in a secluded grove. Demonstrating her authority and lack of fear, Korina confronted the siren, who relinquished her claim on the hapless deliveryman. Korina led Daniel back to safety, her actions preventing further misfortune and reinforcing her standing within this mystical community.
(Harold's odd encounter(SRAristotle):SRAristotle)
[Tue Jul 30 2024]
On Mariner's Highway
Stretching east and west is this one long and dusty highway road. The
asphalt of the pavement has seen a better day; it's patched and worn,
crumbling at the edges of its shoulders where an abundance of wild grasses
takes over. They slump into low ditches at the sides where water is meant
to pool, and beyond that are weak fences and forested property to the south,
as well as rolling hills to the north.
It is night, about 92F(33C) degrees, There is a waning crescent moon.
(Your target is propositioned by a sex worker of some description who uses supernatural abilities to snare them, charming them, hypnotising them or manipulating their emotions. However their plan is in fact just to lure the target into a vulnerable location before robbing them of money, or valuables, or blood or something else of value.
)
Harold is walking along the highway towards the dimly lit streets of the city, his mind preoccupied with thoughts of the mundane life he had been leading. The urban jungle was alive with the sounds of honking cars, distant laughter, and the hum of a thousand conversations. Tonight, however, something felt different. He couldn't quite place it, but there was a strange energy in the air, something that made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.
It wouldn't take him long to walk before he'd reach the city properly, hobbling along as he goes. As Harold turned a corner, he'd notice a woman leaning against the wall of a dimly lit alley. She was strikingly beautiful, with long, flowing hair that shimmered under the flickering streetlights and eyes that seemed to glow with an unnatural luminescence. She wore a dress that clung to her curves, and her presence exuded an air of confidence and allure that was almost palpable. She lifted a hand, beckoning him forward with a single, wagging finger. "Hey there, handsome," she purred, her voice like velvet. "Looking for some company tonight?"
Harold hesitated. He had never been the type to engage with strangers on the street - especially in this part of town. Especially in -this- town. But, there was something about her - something he couldn't resist. He felt an inexplicable pull, as if she had cast a spell on him. "I... I guess..." He stammered, unable to tear his gaze away from her mesmerizing eyes.
She stepped closer, her perfume intoxicating, and gently touched his arm. He'd be able to feel a shiver running through his spine at her touch, and with it, any resolve he held would melt away. "Come with me..." she whispers. "I promise you'll have a night you'll never forget."
Harold nods, feeling as though he were in a trance. "You're mighty pretty..." he says, voice low as he follows her deeper into the alley. The noise of the city fading into the background provides them both with a blanket of privacy. Through a labyrinth of narrow streets, he follows.
Ultimately, she guides him to an old, decrepit building. Inside, the atmosphere was surreal. The walls were adorned with strange, otherworldly paintings, and the air was thick with incense. The woman guided Harold to a small, dimly lit room at the back of the building. It was furnished with a plush couch and a low table adorned with candles and crystals. "Sit down," she instructs, her soothing voice commanding. "And relax. Let go of your worries."
As Harold sits to relax, following her instruction, he feels his muscles loosen, mind drifting. He finds himself enraptured by her eyes, wholly enveloped in her gaze. Her eyes were like warmth for him, coursing through his body and in her eyes alone he felt a sense of euphoria. He couldn't remember the last time he was so at ease, so content.
As Harold falls deeper into the presence of this woman, there's a flicker of doubt that pierces through his fog. It's a persistent feeling he'd be unable to clearly shake, but something gnaws at the edge of his consciousness. Something in her eyes was predatory.
"...What's your name?" Harold asks, his voice barely above a whisper. How he hadn't thought to ask before was beyond him.
At his question, the woman smiles. Mischief in her eyes. "Names are unimportant." She replied. "All that matters is this moment... that you're here with me. That we're together." If there's any unease that settles through Harold, it'd be much too late of a warning for him to respond. Her smile widens, and she leans closer to brush her lips to his ear. "You're mine now." She says, soothing voice turning sinister. "And you have something I want."
Harold's heart races as he feels her breath on his ear, and even moreso when he feels her cold, clammy hands slide into his pocket to seek out his wallet. He struggles to resist, but his limbs felt like lead as his emotions prove to be playthings for her influence.
"Generous donation." The woman says, once his wallet and the contents of such are in her possession. Her tone was mocking, however. She pockets his belongings, turning her eyes towards his as she stares into him. Harold would be able to feel that same euphoria washing over him as her eyes beckon him into another trance, and with a single command she whispers, "Leave. And when you're far enough away, you'll forget all of this like a dream."
With those words echoing in Harold's mind, he has no choice but to obey. He nods, rising to his feet before he's soon shuffling out of the room and back through the labyrinth of alleyways that took him to her in the first place. He stumbles through the city, swearing vengeance against this woman until he's far enough away that... he simply forgets why he was outside in the first place.
(Your target's been contacted to help find a civilian who's become lost in the woods.
)
Disturbing the surprisingly pleasant ambience of Korina's little lab, wherein she concocts manmade horrors beyond most mortal comprehension, her phone begins to whistle out its ringtone, insistent and shrill. As much as it's inconvenient for phones to make sound, and how tempting it is to just throw the device at a wall to make it shut up, there'll certainly be some repercussions down the line if the local engineer has to fix up another phone instead of getting to work on his latest explosive. Better to pick it up, most likely.
Korina is in the process of adding some suspicious-looking herbs to the bubbling cauldron in the corner, turning the color from a murky green to a bright, electric blue when the phone starts ringing annoyingly. Her face immediately twists into a frown, and she lets it ring for at least forty seconds while she stirs the cauldron with a long-handled ladle before she moves over to pick it up without looking at the name or number on screen, just letting out a curt, "What?"
The low hum of chatter and clinking glasses from the tavern above filters through the wooden ceiling. Laughter erupts occasionally, and the faint strumming of a lute adds to the rustic atmosphere. The scent of hearty stew and freshly baked bread wafts down, mingling with the earthy smells of Korina's lab. This place might be well stocked, but soundproofed it is not.
"Good evening, Ms. Korina," a perfectly smooth and urbane voice sounds out from the phone, sounding entirely unruffled by Korina's brusque demeanour.
"My name is Thomas McGregor, and Im calling on behalf of Coretech Industries. Were quite concerned about one of our deliverymen, Daniel Stevens. He was sent to your world with a shipment and hasn't returned."
A boisterous cheer erupts from the tavern as someone likely wins a game of dice. The sound of wooden chairs scraping against the floor follows as patrons move about.
"He was last seen entering Eliks Commune with a crate of specialized equipment for our research division. Its crucial that we locate him, not just for the sake of our business but for his safety as well."
"He's six feet tall, with short brown hair and glasses. He was wearing a Coretech uniform. The crate contained sensitive instruments designed for modernized-but-medieval weapons production, very distinctive, with our company logo on it. Have you seen or heard anything about him?"
The hulking faeborn bartender's voice rises above the din, calling out orders for ale and stew. A lute player's tune shifts to a lively jig, prompting a few stomping feet to join in.
The lack of soundproofing may just be by design. Someone has to check in in case something blows up here - which it does, frequently, if contained and minor so far, and Korina also has to check if something sounds like it's blowing up out there. The commune is pretty close to the forest, and there's the occasional band of golden hounds or wooden women that might come through now and then. "I have not seen him," she tells the voice on the phone whose name she's forgotten already. "If he got lost he is eaten already. Send someone stronger next time. Anything else?"
"I understand your concern, Ms. Korina, but we have reason to believe that Daniel may still be alive. The equipment he was carrying is highly valuable, and there are those in the Other who might have taken him captive rather than... dispatching him outright. If you could make some inquiries or keep an eye out for any signs of him or the equipment, we would be most appreciative." It's an interesting thing, how the Coretech dispatcher seems to balance courteous and inoffensive with a slight steeliness. "Additionally, if there are any expenses incurred during your search, Coretech Industries is more than willing to cover them. Our primary concern is Daniel's safety, but the recovery of the equipment is also of importance. Can we count on your assistance in this matter? We hope to continue with the funding of Elik's Commune, but if the Other proves too dangerous for our employees, we may need to rethink our current position."
That's a lot of fucking words. Korina lifts the phone away from her ear and stares at it for a long, long moment. There's a sigh eventually, mildly frustrated, but she tells the man, annoyed, "I will check. Just send a text next time," so she can ignore it and pretend she hasn't read it. That part goes unsaid.
Still, Korina finishes up in the lab and makes her way back up into the open, walking across the market to the tavern. If there's anyone who has an eye and an ear out for whatever's going on, it'll be Jareth, and she pops her head into the tavern to make sure he's in there before stepping in and climbing over the bar to demand the bartender's attention. "Have you seen some annoying guy with a crate?" comes the question for him, blunt enough.
The tavern is bustling with activity. Jareth, the hulking faeborn bartender, is busy serving drinks and keeping order among the rowdy patrons. He notices Korina pop her head in and then climb over the bar with her usual assertiveness.
"Boss, always a pleasure." He gives her a wry smile as he dries a mug with a rag.]"An annoying guy with a crate, you say? Well, that does narrow it down a bit. I think I remember someone like that. He came through here not too long ago, looking pretty lost. Tried to ask me some questions, but I was a bit preoccupied." He gestures to the lively tavern around them to make his point all the clearer. "I pointed him towards the flea market, figured he'd find his way there. Haven't seen him since, though." That's about as much concern as can be forced out of the native - for some random Earthling, anyway.
The tavern is bustling with activity. Jareth, the hulking faeborn bartender, is busy serving drinks and keeping order among the rowdy patrons. He notices Korina pop her head in and then climb over the bar with her usual assertiveness.
"Boss, always a pleasure." He gives her a wry smile as he dries a mug with a rag. "An annoying guy with a crate, you say? Well, that does narrow it down a bit. I think I remember someone like that. He came through here not too long ago, looking pretty lost. Tried to ask me some questions, but I was a bit preoccupied." He gestures to the lively tavern around them to make his point all the clearer. "I pointed him towards the flea market, figured he'd find his way there. Haven't seen him since, though." That's about as much concern as can be forced out of the native - for some random Earthling, anyway. (fix)
Considering that Jareth's English is only mediocre at the best of times, Korina doesn't really blame him. She doesn't want to deal with a random Earthling either, so the Faeborn gets a look that's almost - /almost/ - sympathetic before she nods her head and walks back out without another word. Off to the flea market it is.
It doesn't take long to get there, and Korina glances around at the vendors still set up, looking around those who haven't headed off to the tavern or to their homes yet, searching for someone she knows the name of. She squints. Food vendor? Talks too much and not enough about anything important. The tailoring lady? Eh. The man who sells armor? ... maybe. Korina still doesn't remember his name though. She makes her way over anyway, peering up at the Faeling for his attention before she asks, "I'm looking for Coretech man with a crate. Wearing glasses. Where did he go?" She pauses to re-consider, then asks another follow-up question, "What did he smell like?"
The armorer looks down at Korina as she approaches. In fairness, it's not his fault - she's short. "Earth man with glasses? Yeah, I remember him. Looked out of place, nervous. I think it was his first time here." He sniffs the air, as if recalling the scent; it's a handy thing to have others with a keen nose around. "He had a strong smell of metal and oil, like a machine shop. But underneath that, something else... faint, almost like burnt sage... and he was sweating his ass off, so that too."
The market's a busy place, but there aren't too many Earthlings that smell like workshops around, and Korina's very familiar with the other one. It only takes a few minutes' concentration to sniff out that burnt sage undertone to differentiate things, painting a scent trail down towards the tent where Nikolai had probably ordered the parts in the first place. The crate's just lying there on the grass, though - unscavenged, at least. It's a large, reinforced wooden box, roughly the size of a small table, with the Coretech Industries logo stamped prominently on its side. The crate has metal bands securing it. The scent leads on to the south, towards the woods. That nervous, sweaty tang rapidly diminishes from his scent, too - it's still there, but no longer being actively produced - it must be lingering faintly on the skin. Still, it's a very sudden change of heart...
"Earth man with glasses," Korina confirms with a nod, scrunching up her nose a little when the smell is mentioned. Burnt things aren't her most favorite of smells, generally. She heads off out of the market following the scent trail, and comes to a stop in front of the crate, eying it suspiciously before she picks it up and carries it into the tent to put it away properly, just in case anyone else comes by it and decides to fuck it up.
Then, she sets out once again to follow the trail, exhaling out an exasperated sigh at the smell that disappears into the woods; she's got the sorcery of the Other at her fingertips, but not really any armor, so she's going to have to be careful. She doesn't plan on going in /too/ deep to look for the man armorless - sorry, glasses guy, you're dead if Korina doesn't find you close to town - but she's going to give it a look anyway and figure out what sort of trouble he's gotten into.
Following the scent trail deeper into the woods, the burnt sage fades gradually as the scent of something else on the earthling becomes more prominent. The surrouning forest grows darker, the trees pressing in closer, their branches twisted and gnarled. The air is thick with the damp, musky smell of the wild, mingled with a sweet, almost intoxicating aroma that lingers faintly on the breeze. Its a scent that Korina recognizes - a perfume sold locally, said to enhance the seductive powers of the more siren-like faeborn.
the trail leads her to a secluded grove, where the trees form a natural archway, and the ground is carpeted with soft, thick moss. Moonlight filters through the leaves, casting an ethereal glow over the scene. The scent shes been following is stronger here, mixed with something... tangy. Ahead, in the center of the grove, Korina spots the delivery guy. Hes in a state of undress, his glasses askew and his expression dazed, as if lost in a trance. Hes sitting on the moss, leaning back slightly, and beside him - draped in shadows and moonlight - is a woman. Her features are sharp and alluring, her eyes gleaming with a predatory light as she watches her prey. The sirens presence is almost otherworldly, but that glamour's not focused on Korina, so it's no real danger.
The siren leans in close to the earthling, her voice low and melodic, weaving a spell of psychic persuasion that keeps him ensnared. Her touch is light, almost tender, as she brushes a hand against his cheek, and he shivers, completely under her thrall.
Her footsteps quiet, Korina comes to lean against a tree at the edge of the clearing, folding her arms across her chest and peering off and over at the woman and the half-dressed delivery guy with arched brows. She takes in the features of the woman first, trying to see if she's recognizable at all - someone she's seen at the Commune? Korina has hardly got a good memory for faces, so it's doubtful she can tell anyway, but it doesn't hurt to try recalling it.
She watches for a couple of moments, just taking in the scene with mild curiosity before speaking up, "Are you done with that?" As though she's talking about the siren's dinner plate with a few scraps left.
The faeborn woman's features are striking, her skin pale with an ethereal glow, and her eyes an unnatural shade of deep green that seems to pierce the darkness. Korina can't place her exactly, but theres a familiarity to the siren's aura, suggesting shes someone whos passed through the Commune before. Her attention snaps to the ashen-haired newcomer - a more dangerous resident of the border community, to be sure - and her expression shifts from sensual and predatory to slightly amused. She regards Korina with a knowing smirk, as if aware of the power dynamics at play. The earthling, still dazed and half-dressed, looks between the two women, confusion and relief mingling on his face as the trance begins to fade.
"Dinner's over, I suppose," she replies, her voice smooth and lilting, with a hint of something dangerous beneath the surface. "He wasn't much of a challenge, but he'll do. Take him, if you want. I've had my fill." With a fluid, almost graceful movement, the siren rises and steps back into the shadows, her form blending with the darkness of the forest. She gives Korina a lingering glance, as if savoring the moment, before disappearing entirely, leaving only the faint scent of her presence behind.
The delivery man blinks rapidly, as if trying to shake off a dream. He stumbles to his feet, hurriedly gathering his discarded clothes and muttering incoherently under his breath.
"II don't know what happened one minute I was and then she was" He trails off, clearly shaken but relieved to see his 'rescuer'. There's some recognition there, but considering her partner's placement in the industrial company, maybe that's not a surprise. He obediently trails behind her as she leads him back through the forest, retracing her steps towards the Commune.
The journey back to the market is uneventful, now that the siren has taken her leave. The earthy scent of the woods gradually gives way to the familiar smells of the market, and soon they reach the gate leading back to Earth. Once back on the other side, the man seems to regain more of his senses, his eyes wide with the realization of how close he came to something far worse. He spots the Coretech vehicle parked nearby, a familiar sight that grounds him back in reality. With a final glance at Korina, a mixture of gratitude and awe in his eyes, he fumbles for his keys and climbs into the drivers seat.
"Thank you I dont know how I can ever-" He cuts himself off, realizing that Korina's probably not interested in human babbling. The man starts the vehicle and drives off, heading back towards Boston, likely to report in at Coretech with a story theyll have a hard time believing. As the vehicle disappears down the road, Korina steps back through the gate, leaving the human world behind once more.
In another corner of this mystical world, Korina, a local concocter of horrors, was interrupted by a call for help regarding a missing deliveryman named Daniel, last seen near Eliks Commune. Initially reluctant, her curiosity and the promise of reimbursement convinced her to investigate. Her journey led her to the bustling life of the local tavern, where she learned that Daniel might have ventured towards the flea market. Following a scent trail into the woods, Korina discovered Daniel under the spell of a siren in a secluded grove. Demonstrating her authority and lack of fear, Korina confronted the siren, who relinquished her claim on the hapless deliveryman. Korina led Daniel back to safety, her actions preventing further misfortune and reinforcing her standing within this mystical community.
(Harold's odd encounter(SRAristotle):SRAristotle)
[Tue Jul 30 2024]
On Mariner's Highway
Stretching east and west is this one long and dusty highway road. The
asphalt of the pavement has seen a better day; it's patched and worn,
crumbling at the edges of its shoulders where an abundance of wild grasses
takes over. They slump into low ditches at the sides where water is meant
to pool, and beyond that are weak fences and forested property to the south,
as well as rolling hills to the north.
It is night, about 92F(33C) degrees, There is a waning crescent moon.
(Your target is propositioned by a sex worker of some description who uses supernatural abilities to snare them, charming them, hypnotising them or manipulating their emotions. However their plan is in fact just to lure the target into a vulnerable location before robbing them of money, or valuables, or blood or something else of value.
)
Harold is walking along the highway towards the dimly lit streets of the city, his mind preoccupied with thoughts of the mundane life he had been leading. The urban jungle was alive with the sounds of honking cars, distant laughter, and the hum of a thousand conversations. Tonight, however, something felt different. He couldn't quite place it, but there was a strange energy in the air, something that made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.
It wouldn't take him long to walk before he'd reach the city properly, hobbling along as he goes. As Harold turned a corner, he'd notice a woman leaning against the wall of a dimly lit alley. She was strikingly beautiful, with long, flowing hair that shimmered under the flickering streetlights and eyes that seemed to glow with an unnatural luminescence. She wore a dress that clung to her curves, and her presence exuded an air of confidence and allure that was almost palpable. She lifted a hand, beckoning him forward with a single, wagging finger. "Hey there, handsome," she purred, her voice like velvet. "Looking for some company tonight?"
Harold hesitated. He had never been the type to engage with strangers on the street - especially in this part of town. Especially in -this- town. But, there was something about her - something he couldn't resist. He felt an inexplicable pull, as if she had cast a spell on him. "I... I guess..." He stammered, unable to tear his gaze away from her mesmerizing eyes.
She stepped closer, her perfume intoxicating, and gently touched his arm. He'd be able to feel a shiver running through his spine at her touch, and with it, any resolve he held would melt away. "Come with me..." she whispers. "I promise you'll have a night you'll never forget."
Harold nods, feeling as though he were in a trance. "You're mighty pretty..." he says, voice low as he follows her deeper into the alley. The noise of the city fading into the background provides them both with a blanket of privacy. Through a labyrinth of narrow streets, he follows.
Ultimately, she guides him to an old, decrepit building. Inside, the atmosphere was surreal. The walls were adorned with strange, otherworldly paintings, and the air was thick with incense. The woman guided Harold to a small, dimly lit room at the back of the building. It was furnished with a plush couch and a low table adorned with candles and crystals. "Sit down," she instructs, her soothing voice commanding. "And relax. Let go of your worries."
As Harold sits to relax, following her instruction, he feels his muscles loosen, mind drifting. He finds himself enraptured by her eyes, wholly enveloped in her gaze. Her eyes were like warmth for him, coursing through his body and in her eyes alone he felt a sense of euphoria. He couldn't remember the last time he was so at ease, so content.
As Harold falls deeper into the presence of this woman, there's a flicker of doubt that pierces through his fog. It's a persistent feeling he'd be unable to clearly shake, but something gnaws at the edge of his consciousness. Something in her eyes was predatory.
"...What's your name?" Harold asks, his voice barely above a whisper. How he hadn't thought to ask before was beyond him.
At his question, the woman smiles. Mischief in her eyes. "Names are unimportant." She replied. "All that matters is this moment... that you're here with me. That we're together." If there's any unease that settles through Harold, it'd be much too late of a warning for him to respond. Her smile widens, and she leans closer to brush her lips to his ear. "You're mine now." She says, soothing voice turning sinister. "And you have something I want."
Harold's heart races as he feels her breath on his ear, and even moreso when he feels her cold, clammy hands slide into his pocket to seek out his wallet. He struggles to resist, but his limbs felt like lead as his emotions prove to be playthings for her influence.
"Generous donation." The woman says, once his wallet and the contents of such are in her possession. Her tone was mocking, however. She pockets his belongings, turning her eyes towards his as she stares into him. Harold would be able to feel that same euphoria washing over him as her eyes beckon him into another trance, and with a single command she whispers, "Leave. And when you're far enough away, you'll forget all of this like a dream."
With those words echoing in Harold's mind, he has no choice but to obey. He nods, rising to his feet before he's soon shuffling out of the room and back through the labyrinth of alleyways that took him to her in the first place. He stumbles through the city, swearing vengeance against this woman until he's far enough away that... he simply forgets why he was outside in the first place.
(Your target's been contacted to help find a civilian who's become lost in the woods.
)
Disturbing the surprisingly pleasant ambience of Korina's little lab, wherein she concocts manmade horrors beyond most mortal comprehension, her phone begins to whistle out its ringtone, insistent and shrill. As much as it's inconvenient for phones to make sound, and how tempting it is to just throw the device at a wall to make it shut up, there'll certainly be some repercussions down the line if the local engineer has to fix up another phone instead of getting to work on his latest explosive. Better to pick it up, most likely.
Korina is in the process of adding some suspicious-looking herbs to the bubbling cauldron in the corner, turning the color from a murky green to a bright, electric blue when the phone starts ringing annoyingly. Her face immediately twists into a frown, and she lets it ring for at least forty seconds while she stirs the cauldron with a long-handled ladle before she moves over to pick it up without looking at the name or number on screen, just letting out a curt, "What?"
The low hum of chatter and clinking glasses from the tavern above filters through the wooden ceiling. Laughter erupts occasionally, and the faint strumming of a lute adds to the rustic atmosphere. The scent of hearty stew and freshly baked bread wafts down, mingling with the earthy smells of Korina's lab. This place might be well stocked, but soundproofed it is not.
"Good evening, Ms. Korina," a perfectly smooth and urbane voice sounds out from the phone, sounding entirely unruffled by Korina's brusque demeanour.
"My name is Thomas McGregor, and Im calling on behalf of Coretech Industries. Were quite concerned about one of our deliverymen, Daniel Stevens. He was sent to your world with a shipment and hasn't returned."
A boisterous cheer erupts from the tavern as someone likely wins a game of dice. The sound of wooden chairs scraping against the floor follows as patrons move about.
"He was last seen entering Eliks Commune with a crate of specialized equipment for our research division. Its crucial that we locate him, not just for the sake of our business but for his safety as well."
"He's six feet tall, with short brown hair and glasses. He was wearing a Coretech uniform. The crate contained sensitive instruments designed for modernized-but-medieval weapons production, very distinctive, with our company logo on it. Have you seen or heard anything about him?"
The hulking faeborn bartender's voice rises above the din, calling out orders for ale and stew. A lute player's tune shifts to a lively jig, prompting a few stomping feet to join in.
The lack of soundproofing may just be by design. Someone has to check in in case something blows up here - which it does, frequently, if contained and minor so far, and Korina also has to check if something sounds like it's blowing up out there. The commune is pretty close to the forest, and there's the occasional band of golden hounds or wooden women that might come through now and then. "I have not seen him," she tells the voice on the phone whose name she's forgotten already. "If he got lost he is eaten already. Send someone stronger next time. Anything else?"
"I understand your concern, Ms. Korina, but we have reason to believe that Daniel may still be alive. The equipment he was carrying is highly valuable, and there are those in the Other who might have taken him captive rather than... dispatching him outright. If you could make some inquiries or keep an eye out for any signs of him or the equipment, we would be most appreciative." It's an interesting thing, how the Coretech dispatcher seems to balance courteous and inoffensive with a slight steeliness. "Additionally, if there are any expenses incurred during your search, Coretech Industries is more than willing to cover them. Our primary concern is Daniel's safety, but the recovery of the equipment is also of importance. Can we count on your assistance in this matter? We hope to continue with the funding of Elik's Commune, but if the Other proves too dangerous for our employees, we may need to rethink our current position."
That's a lot of fucking words. Korina lifts the phone away from her ear and stares at it for a long, long moment. There's a sigh eventually, mildly frustrated, but she tells the man, annoyed, "I will check. Just send a text next time," so she can ignore it and pretend she hasn't read it. That part goes unsaid.
Still, Korina finishes up in the lab and makes her way back up into the open, walking across the market to the tavern. If there's anyone who has an eye and an ear out for whatever's going on, it'll be Jareth, and she pops her head into the tavern to make sure he's in there before stepping in and climbing over the bar to demand the bartender's attention. "Have you seen some annoying guy with a crate?" comes the question for him, blunt enough.
The tavern is bustling with activity. Jareth, the hulking faeborn bartender, is busy serving drinks and keeping order among the rowdy patrons. He notices Korina pop her head in and then climb over the bar with her usual assertiveness.
"Boss, always a pleasure." He gives her a wry smile as he dries a mug with a rag.]"An annoying guy with a crate, you say? Well, that does narrow it down a bit. I think I remember someone like that. He came through here not too long ago, looking pretty lost. Tried to ask me some questions, but I was a bit preoccupied." He gestures to the lively tavern around them to make his point all the clearer. "I pointed him towards the flea market, figured he'd find his way there. Haven't seen him since, though." That's about as much concern as can be forced out of the native - for some random Earthling, anyway.
The tavern is bustling with activity. Jareth, the hulking faeborn bartender, is busy serving drinks and keeping order among the rowdy patrons. He notices Korina pop her head in and then climb over the bar with her usual assertiveness.
"Boss, always a pleasure." He gives her a wry smile as he dries a mug with a rag. "An annoying guy with a crate, you say? Well, that does narrow it down a bit. I think I remember someone like that. He came through here not too long ago, looking pretty lost. Tried to ask me some questions, but I was a bit preoccupied." He gestures to the lively tavern around them to make his point all the clearer. "I pointed him towards the flea market, figured he'd find his way there. Haven't seen him since, though." That's about as much concern as can be forced out of the native - for some random Earthling, anyway. (fix)
Considering that Jareth's English is only mediocre at the best of times, Korina doesn't really blame him. She doesn't want to deal with a random Earthling either, so the Faeborn gets a look that's almost - /almost/ - sympathetic before she nods her head and walks back out without another word. Off to the flea market it is.
It doesn't take long to get there, and Korina glances around at the vendors still set up, looking around those who haven't headed off to the tavern or to their homes yet, searching for someone she knows the name of. She squints. Food vendor? Talks too much and not enough about anything important. The tailoring lady? Eh. The man who sells armor? ... maybe. Korina still doesn't remember his name though. She makes her way over anyway, peering up at the Faeling for his attention before she asks, "I'm looking for Coretech man with a crate. Wearing glasses. Where did he go?" She pauses to re-consider, then asks another follow-up question, "What did he smell like?"
The armorer looks down at Korina as she approaches. In fairness, it's not his fault - she's short. "Earth man with glasses? Yeah, I remember him. Looked out of place, nervous. I think it was his first time here." He sniffs the air, as if recalling the scent; it's a handy thing to have others with a keen nose around. "He had a strong smell of metal and oil, like a machine shop. But underneath that, something else... faint, almost like burnt sage... and he was sweating his ass off, so that too."
The market's a busy place, but there aren't too many Earthlings that smell like workshops around, and Korina's very familiar with the other one. It only takes a few minutes' concentration to sniff out that burnt sage undertone to differentiate things, painting a scent trail down towards the tent where Nikolai had probably ordered the parts in the first place. The crate's just lying there on the grass, though - unscavenged, at least. It's a large, reinforced wooden box, roughly the size of a small table, with the Coretech Industries logo stamped prominently on its side. The crate has metal bands securing it. The scent leads on to the south, towards the woods. That nervous, sweaty tang rapidly diminishes from his scent, too - it's still there, but no longer being actively produced - it must be lingering faintly on the skin. Still, it's a very sudden change of heart...
"Earth man with glasses," Korina confirms with a nod, scrunching up her nose a little when the smell is mentioned. Burnt things aren't her most favorite of smells, generally. She heads off out of the market following the scent trail, and comes to a stop in front of the crate, eying it suspiciously before she picks it up and carries it into the tent to put it away properly, just in case anyone else comes by it and decides to fuck it up.
Then, she sets out once again to follow the trail, exhaling out an exasperated sigh at the smell that disappears into the woods; she's got the sorcery of the Other at her fingertips, but not really any armor, so she's going to have to be careful. She doesn't plan on going in /too/ deep to look for the man armorless - sorry, glasses guy, you're dead if Korina doesn't find you close to town - but she's going to give it a look anyway and figure out what sort of trouble he's gotten into.
Following the scent trail deeper into the woods, the burnt sage fades gradually as the scent of something else on the earthling becomes more prominent. The surrouning forest grows darker, the trees pressing in closer, their branches twisted and gnarled. The air is thick with the damp, musky smell of the wild, mingled with a sweet, almost intoxicating aroma that lingers faintly on the breeze. Its a scent that Korina recognizes - a perfume sold locally, said to enhance the seductive powers of the more siren-like faeborn.
the trail leads her to a secluded grove, where the trees form a natural archway, and the ground is carpeted with soft, thick moss. Moonlight filters through the leaves, casting an ethereal glow over the scene. The scent shes been following is stronger here, mixed with something... tangy. Ahead, in the center of the grove, Korina spots the delivery guy. Hes in a state of undress, his glasses askew and his expression dazed, as if lost in a trance. Hes sitting on the moss, leaning back slightly, and beside him - draped in shadows and moonlight - is a woman. Her features are sharp and alluring, her eyes gleaming with a predatory light as she watches her prey. The sirens presence is almost otherworldly, but that glamour's not focused on Korina, so it's no real danger.
The siren leans in close to the earthling, her voice low and melodic, weaving a spell of psychic persuasion that keeps him ensnared. Her touch is light, almost tender, as she brushes a hand against his cheek, and he shivers, completely under her thrall.
Her footsteps quiet, Korina comes to lean against a tree at the edge of the clearing, folding her arms across her chest and peering off and over at the woman and the half-dressed delivery guy with arched brows. She takes in the features of the woman first, trying to see if she's recognizable at all - someone she's seen at the Commune? Korina has hardly got a good memory for faces, so it's doubtful she can tell anyway, but it doesn't hurt to try recalling it.
She watches for a couple of moments, just taking in the scene with mild curiosity before speaking up, "Are you done with that?" As though she's talking about the siren's dinner plate with a few scraps left.
The faeborn woman's features are striking, her skin pale with an ethereal glow, and her eyes an unnatural shade of deep green that seems to pierce the darkness. Korina can't place her exactly, but theres a familiarity to the siren's aura, suggesting shes someone whos passed through the Commune before. Her attention snaps to the ashen-haired newcomer - a more dangerous resident of the border community, to be sure - and her expression shifts from sensual and predatory to slightly amused. She regards Korina with a knowing smirk, as if aware of the power dynamics at play. The earthling, still dazed and half-dressed, looks between the two women, confusion and relief mingling on his face as the trance begins to fade.
"Dinner's over, I suppose," she replies, her voice smooth and lilting, with a hint of something dangerous beneath the surface. "He wasn't much of a challenge, but he'll do. Take him, if you want. I've had my fill." With a fluid, almost graceful movement, the siren rises and steps back into the shadows, her form blending with the darkness of the forest. She gives Korina a lingering glance, as if savoring the moment, before disappearing entirely, leaving only the faint scent of her presence behind.
The delivery man blinks rapidly, as if trying to shake off a dream. He stumbles to his feet, hurriedly gathering his discarded clothes and muttering incoherently under his breath.
"II don't know what happened one minute I was and then she was" He trails off, clearly shaken but relieved to see his 'rescuer'. There's some recognition there, but considering her partner's placement in the industrial company, maybe that's not a surprise. He obediently trails behind her as she leads him back through the forest, retracing her steps towards the Commune.
The journey back to the market is uneventful, now that the siren has taken her leave. The earthy scent of the woods gradually gives way to the familiar smells of the market, and soon they reach the gate leading back to Earth. Once back on the other side, the man seems to regain more of his senses, his eyes wide with the realization of how close he came to something far worse. He spots the Coretech vehicle parked nearby, a familiar sight that grounds him back in reality. With a final glance at Korina, a mixture of gratitude and awe in his eyes, he fumbles for his keys and climbs into the drivers seat.
"Thank you I dont know how I can ever-" He cuts himself off, realizing that Korina's probably not interested in human babbling. The man starts the vehicle and drives off, heading back towards Boston, likely to report in at Coretech with a story theyll have a hard time believing. As the vehicle disappears down the road, Korina steps back through the gate, leaving the human world behind once more.