[Caitlyn isn't sure how to feel about this. In one sense, it's not so different than serving a court order back home. In every other sense, it feels completely wrong. How could the Council claim her crime was treason and then have her turn her back on her fellow Chosen? Did they not see the irony in it?
She had to keep reminding herself that she wasn't doing anything other than passing on the message, and hopefully bringing her target to speak to Jerry. The Council was responsible for the rest, but it made her almost sick to her stomach to have to play along. But what choice did she have? She remembered what Akechi had told her. How the Chosen sentenced last time had suffered the longer they waited to complete their tasks. She didn't want to think about what might happened if she didn't do as they asked.
So here she was, approaching the stables. She remembered Marianne. Marianne had helped her rescue her chocobo, Toby. It was because of her help that she was able to see that to chocobo was safe and treated and made it through his injuries. The more she had bonded with the bird, the more grateful she was to Marianne for her assistance. Which made her hate what she had to do all the more.
It was easy to keep up appearances and visit Toby first. She was glad the chocobo was there and not on Astralin's farm (with his disappearance, she was hesitant to leave him there anymore), so she had a decent excuse to be there for now. She just hoped this would go smoothly and not escalate into anything.]
[ Marianne had been overjoyed to see the chocobo now known as Toby make a full recovery, and it was sweet to see how well Caitlyn and the bird had bonded during the process. That's why she isn't surprised by Caitlyn's presence at the stables, thinking she's here to see the chocobo again. Marianne greets her with a soft smile. She's dressed in her workboots, a few strands of hay clinging to her dress having just returned from feeding the horses. ]
[Caitlyn was offering the chocobo some treats when Marianne returned inside. She felt a twinge of guilt as the woman greeted her so kindly. She tried her best to smile in return, but she knew she was struggling. This wasn't fair. This wasn't right. But what else was she supposed to do?]
Hello, Marianne. How are you?
[Fuck the Council. She felt like she was committing a betrayal, here. But that was probably the point of it, wasn't it?]
[While it had been easy enough to get Silco agree to meet with her in Rumpitur, what hadn't been easy was her attempt to convince Vi to stay behind. This was her sentence, not Vi's. She didn't want to drag the other woman into this. And yet Vi refused to stay behind. She'd be lying if she said a part of her was relieved she didn't have to do this alone.
The good side of this was that Silco deserved everything he got. If anyone had to face the consequences of their actions here, she was glad Silco was on that list. A part of her was even glad that the task was given to her. After chasing after dead ends and getting blocked by Marcus, she was finally going to bring Silco in.
But she also wasn't blind to what this would mean. While she would never call Silco a friend, they at least had a sort of truce. They didn't openly act against each other. She couldn't be sure what would happen after this. Nor could she be sure of how Jinx would react, which was another reason why she hated to involve Vi. The last thing she wanted to do was give Jinx another reason to say she was poisoning Vi against her.
It was all. So much. Gods. Even with the satisfaction of it, she was still plagued with guilt. She didn't like being a pawn to this corrupt Council. She didn't like having her safety hung over her head for compliance. This wasn't how things should be.
And yet, it was how things were. She didn't have to like it, but she was going to use everything she had learned about Jerry and the Council for her benefit. It arguably wasn't a lot, but anything counted in times like this.
The road to Rumpitur was long, but thankfully her chocobo was up to the trek. After making it to her destination, she sent Silco another text, confirming that she had arrived and set a time and place to meet. Being on the road so long, it was only fair that they took some time to rest and refuel. When the time in question neared, she made her way out to the edge of town. She didn't want to be too far away from Rumpitur, but far enough away that if a fight broke out, they wouldn't be noticed. She doubted he would come alone, or at least come without a backup plan, but neither would she. Vi wasn't going to agree to be anywhere else, after all.]
[ Caitlyn only asked after her well-being but the happiness of the animals might as well be her own. The ongoing tensions with Rumpitur still weigh on her mind, but Marianne can breathe a sigh of relief the kidnapped had been rescued and peace restored.
By this point she's noticed Caitlyn's preoccupied expression and she frowns, wondering what might be troubling her. ]
[The problem with the people of Piltover was their ongoing mistaken sense of superiority. He couldn't fault Caitlyn entirely, not if what he had heard about her had even three kernels of truth to them. She didn't yet have the benefit of a lifetime of experience avoiding being betrayed and having to distrust everyone around them no matter how many battles had been fought together.
He suspected something was amiss with her sudden willingness to travel to Rumpitur in a hurry rather than wait for his business to conclude. He didn't know her well enough to guess exactly her motivate, but it remained suspect enough that he knew he would have to be smart about her arrival.
He paid a Rumpiturian to discreetly watch for travelers. The description of her matched close to the timing of her text confirming her arrival. She also wasn't traveling alone and the vague description of hair colour and style was enough for him. He expected no less; Jinx's sister had an inkling of what he was capable of far more than the enforcer did.
And just like an arrogant Piltover elite, she gave him ample time to explore the place of their meeting ahead. Out of town with still a view of town in case things didn't go to plan, was it? Two against one, would it be? No, he didn't agree to those odds no matter the information she held and felt so important to provide to him. She didn't enjoy his company or his methods enough to need a meeting quite like that.
Silco covered his tracks by disrupting where his footfalls had been as he returned to town, finding a building that gave him a view of the meeting location. There he waited until the appointed time and sure enough, he confirmed the dynamic duo. It was a shame the war child hadn't agreed to be hired by him; he'd have had both women shot where they stood... starting with Kiramann, of course. Let Vander's prodigy rush the location only to join the same fate.
Too bad. Hiring was proving to be more difficult; people just weren't desperate enough for opportunities. He'd change that with enough time.
For now, he enjoyed his vantage point. He let them wait to five minutes after their appointed time. Exactly five minutes so it was clearly intentional.]
I've heard testimony of your skills with a rifle. Open ground with clear sight lines seems like poor choice for a meeting, Kiramann. Assure me you aren't so naïve to the Undercity to think any one of us would walk out to open ground like that.
[A pause as he watched the pair for a moment. Then he added:]
Correction, one of us is stupid enough to, and she happens to be standing next to you.
[abso-fucking-lutely Vi was coming, whether or not Caitlyn knew. it just made more sense for her to know, because better to bicker about it now than to get into a fight about it later. there was no way that she was going to let Caitlyn meet up with Silco on her own...
so here she was. even though she was pissy that Caitlyn even wanted to go along with what Jerry wanted to do... but if it's to make Silco's life harder, it might be okay.
after about the five minute mark, she starts tapping her feet and rolling her eyes.]
Motherfucker isn't going to show and we'll have to drag him out of his rat hole, or he's in a little rat hole watching us and giggling about how we're just standing here.
[she starts to squint into the area around her... where would he be hiding, if she were Silco?]
[Caitlyn knows she shouldn't bother lying. She wracked her brain on how to go about this, and she felt like being honest with Marianne was the best way to handle this. ]
I was chosen for sentencing this month by the Council.
[Caitlyn is trying to think positively about this. She was trying to go about it in the most calm and professional way. That's why she approached Silco the way she did. Why she came to him, why she chose this spot to meet. It was all attempts to prove she wasn't an enemy. Bringing Vi hadn't been a part of the original plan, but when Vi found out what she was doing, there was no arguing with her.
But before she could even finish her words, her tablet buzzed. She pulled it out, eyes scanning over the message before she holds it out for Vi to see. As Vi reads, Caitlyn does a quick scan of their surroundings, making note of buildings and areas that could be used to watch this spot, before taking the tablet back and starting to type out a reply.]
I was only trying to pick a place that would be convenient for the both of us. If you didn't like it, you could have told me sooner. Where would you rather us meet, or are you going to make me come look for you?
[ So that was why Caitlyn looked uneasy. Marianne lifts her hand as if to reach out and reassure her, but she thinks twice and ends up folding her hands in front of her, feeling at a loss for what to say. Not for the first time, she wishes she were better with people. She doesn't want to pry too much into the details knowing how personal it is. ]
Will they be keeping you busy? If you need someone to look after Toby for a while...
[It was a shame that he wasn't a skilled marksman. Firearms had never been a comfortable weapon in his hand, though thanks to Jinx, he had given in and learned more about them. He didn't carry one, least of all the type with the kind of range to achieve what should have been done today. It's too bad less scrupulous individuals in his employ these days.
If history was any indication, he couldn't stay in one place long. This smelled just a touch too close to a trap, though if she actually had information about the Council, he was curious.]
I expected we would be meeting one-on-one. If you had been bringing a bodyguard, I would have brought my own.
[Meaning, he was alone, and he had no intention of walking into a situation that wasn't in his favour or at least one where he had a strong suspicion that the sister would take a swing at him regardless of the pleasantries.]
[Vi's eyes roll up into her head when she reads the message from Silco, and she kicks the ground.]
Did he really think I'm going to let you go see him by yourself??? He's a fucking snake!
[oh my god she's so mad. she could punch him right now, but she inhales sharply... and then exhales slowly. she has to be smart about this. any sort of misstep might interfere with her relationship with Jinx...
but maybe she could give him a black eye for the trouble.]
No wonder he likes it in Rumpitur. [A snake in the city of snakes. But no, she knows it's because he's up to something. Jinx's reaction to everyone talking about how the Chosen should respond to the Rumpturians was proof enough.
She sighs, shaking her head, before she continues typing away.]
The roads between Aldrip and here are dangerous. And did you forget I was nearly kidnapped the last time in Rumpitur? There was no way she'd let me come back here by myself. But if you insist we meet face to face alone, I won't argue.
[Though Caitlyn knows Vi would stay close, either way. She would probably need her, if talking to Silco went south. Or when, really.]
No, I-- I should be able to tend to him. But I appreciate the offer.
[She was already making plans to head to Rumpitur soon, in search of Silco. Toby would be her way there and back, at least.
Ugh, why couldn't Marianne be an asshole like Silco? She felt way less guilty about the idea of bringing him in. Even now, Marianne was offering her help and being so kind.]
The thing is... The Council-- [dammit. She knew she should just get it out. Get it over with, then deal with the fallout.]
The Council wants me to bring in two Chosen for their sentencing. You were also picked. I'm... so sorry, Marianne. But they want me to bring you to Jerry.
[Silco was withdrawing from watching them from his current vantage point. He wasn't about to risk staying in one place too long; that was a good way to end up in the wrong hands when it wasn't part of his stronghold. So he moved away, down the stairs and out to another building that he had explored previously.]
You understand that people are kidnapped or disappear all the time in the Undercity, but I understand if that's shocking to you as one living in the ivory city.
I will meet with you one-on-one. Leave the brute somewhere visible though so I can keep an eye on her.
[He'd just wait for that news to be dropped and expected a temper tantrum. After all, he clearly wasn't going to be trusted with these two and for good reason. He trusted them just as much.]
[ Oh. Oh. As the news sinks in, Marianne turns pale and her knees feel weak. When the council began to hand out sentences she knew it would inevitably be her turn and had braced herself, but now that it's happening she still feels knocked off balance.
Caitlyn...a look at the other woman's face tells her she doesn't want to bring her in, and the kindly way she breaks it to her softens the blow. Marianne doesn't want to make this any harder on her, and the thought gives her resolve to face her sentencing. She's always intended to surrender quietly. ]
I—I understand. I'll go with you.
[ Her hands smooth the front of her dress anxiously. Hay clings to the fabric and her boots are dirty from her stable work. ]
Um, would you mind if I got changed first? Then I'll go, Caitlyn, I promise.
[don't mind Vi, she's found some way to look at what's happening on Caitlyn's tablet now.]
What the hell? Fucking coward. He really thinks I trust him that much to let you go talk to him? How do I know he doesn't have a crony around to hurt you??
[Caitlyn rolls her eyes. Unsurprising that Silco continues to act like there's zero crime in the upper levels of Piltover. Shit still happened, but whatever. That's not the point. Vi's getting heated, so that's going to take priority.]
We don't. But this won't work unless he lowers his guard, even just a little.
[She was still hoping she could talk to him sensibly about this. She didn't want to be here, doing this either.]
That's fine. Time and place, and I'll meet you there alone.
[Though not voiced, Caitlyn would know the feeling all too well. She had been doing her best to not draw any extra attention from the Council for a while, but after her conversation with Silco last month, she had been looking their way more. Maybe that's how she ended up being one of the lucky ones this time. All the same, it came with such a sense of dread and panic.]
Please-- take all the time you need. [Even if she doubted she would have issues convincing Marianne to come with her, she was still flooded with relief that the woman was so agreeable. But she knew Silco would never come this quietly.]
I don't want to be doing this either, I just want you to know that. I wish there was another way. There's so much we don't know about what happens if we don't comply with them.
[From his research, Piltover had far more refined tastes when it came to crime and criminal activities. It was very unhanded and behind closed doors, which he personally did find rather fascinating. Everyone could learn a lot from each other if given the opportunity, but those were few and far between.]
You can come to the edge of the buildings and your lesser half can remain right were she is. Once I see you there, I will come to you.
[He remained on the lower level of the current building in a place where he could watch and be mostly hidden to know if his orders were taken. Once Caitlyn seemed to be where he wanted her, he would come out of hiding himself. Alone, as agreed upon in his mind.]
It's okay. I know it can't be helped. [ They have no choice but to cooperate with the people in charge, and hearing Caitlyn's reluctance is enough for her. ] Actually, I'm kind of glad it's you who came to get me instead of a stranger.
[ If it had been some intimidating member of the Council, she would definitely feel worse. Marianne tries to manage a smile, but she's never been great at smiling and she's sure it comes out looking weak.
It doesn't take her long to get changed. She comes back in a clean dress and shoes. Prim and proper. If anything, it's her nerves that are frazzled. ]
[Hearing Marianne would rather it be Caitlyn to bring her in does give her some relief. It eases her guilt, certainly. Still, it isn't fair or right by any means. While Caitlyn doesn't know the extent of the accusations the Council made towards her, Marianne has been nothing but kind in the times that Caitlyn has interacted with her. She was no criminal.
As Marianne leaves to change, Caitlyn lingers at the stalls, grateful her chocobo seemed none the wiser to her turmoil. If anything, he sensed she was upset and was extra attentive, but that could also be because he knew she still had treats.
But soon enough, Marianne returns, and Caitlyn nods to her.]
I'll stay with you as long as I can, okay? [It's the least she can do, leading the other woman into this mess. It doesn't take long to get to the Council's headquarters from the stalls, and true to her word, Caitlyn intended to stay until Jerry made his appearance.]
Neither do I, but what choice do we have? [Caitlyn sighs, shaking her head.]
He's more likely to listen to reason. And I doubt he knows about my new magic, or the extent of it anyway. If it comes to a fight, he can't win. He knows that.
[She's been pretty careful with it, she thinks, but she knows Silco's been watching her, as much as she's been watching him.]
Alright. I'm coming.
Just, trust me, okay? I can handle him, Vi. [she gives Vi's hand a squeeze, and a peck to the cheek for good luck, before setting off to building as Silco requested.]
[ Marianne replies with relief tangible in her voice. She walks with her head bowed, saying a silent prayer to the goddess on the way. She has long resigned herself to judgment and she asks Sothis not for leniency nor forgiveness, but for the strength to face herself and persevere. Because hopeless as she might be, even someone like her has found a reason to go on living.
When they reach the Council, she turns to bid Caitlyn goodbye. A simple 'farewell' feels too glum, so instead— ]
Um, I'll see you again when this is over. We can take Toby to the meadows next time.
[ She doesn't know what her sentence will be nor what will happen from here, but putting her hopes into words gives Marianne something to look forward to. Perhaps through the trials of the past year, she has grown just enough to allow herself a little bit of kindness. ]
[Silco wasn't looking for a fight, but he was prepared for one in his own limited way. He had been scrappier in his youth, but even then, he had not been blessed with the kind of physicality or interest to want to punch people. However, he has his knife, and he was always prepared to use it.
So he watched as Caitlyn moved away from the sister and head as instructed. He kept an eye on the pair of them as the distance grew. A rifle was at certain disadvantages up close and personal after all, but the sister was someone best to avoid in such circumstances.
Only once he was assured that the sister would keep a distance for now did he ease from his hiding spot and travel back to the street, moving to meet with Caitlyn as previously agreed upon. He emerged from the shadow of the building, his hands tucked into his pockets as he kept himself at the corner of the building. It was easier to duck back behind it should he need to.]
This had to be important to bring you down here in such haste. What is it you mean to tell me?
[Caitlyn lets out the breath she was holding when she finally spots Silco. There was a part of her now worried she was walking into a trap herself. She doesn't doubt that he's armed, and while she does have her rifle, it's safely across her back. If it turned to a fight, she wouldn't be able to access it immediately.
Fortunately, she had a few knives hidden away and a way to control those, but she didn't want him to know about that yet.]
Like I said when I messaged you, there's been some important developments. I've been inside City Hall.
[Which is...a very blurry memory. She knows she saw the Council, too, but it's nothing she can quite pinpoint or describe. But Silco doesn't need to know that. She's starting off simply to draw him in. Hopefully he'll stay and listen.]
[Caitlyn doesn't interrupt the silence as they walk to City Hall. It gives her time to talk herself through her own guilt about the situation. Still, it had to be done. She had been so anxious since her own sentencing, and she selfishly hoped this would help, even though she knew she still had Silco to hunt down.
To Marianne's goodbye, she nods, trying to give her a smile of encouragement. Even now, Marianne continues to be nothing but kind.]
I'd like that. And if you need help, with what they tell you-- let me know. I'll help in any way I can.
[It was something she had already offered to all Chosen, but given her personal hand in this, she wanted to assist her. It only seemed right.]
[Her nervousness was obvious, but the reason for it had him mulling it over. They had been one-on-one on numerous occasions, but there was something off about her type of nerves here. It made him suspicious. His mismatched eyes skated from Caitlyn to where the sister was standing out in the open and back again.]
So you were sentenced. [The hairs on the back of his neck rose.] How is your account different from those previously sentenced?
[ That gives her relief to know. No matter how poorly the Council thought of her, or how poorly she thought of herself, the kindness people extend her remind her of her own worth. ]
I'll be off now.
[ With a last nod of goodbye, Marianne turns away. She hopes her coming means Caitlyn's sentence will conclude soon and she'll be let go, free to return to Toby. She'll see them again once her own judgment has concluded. Bracing herself, Marianne steps through the doors of City Hall. ]
[The nervousness isn't entirely because of Silco, either. Ever since she faced the Council, every day has led her to feeling more anxious and on edge, and she knew it wasn't just because she had to bring in Silco. She had been trying to do just that back home, and didn't feel like this. It had to be something the Council did to her.]
All reports from the last time seem to fit what I experienced. I questioned Jerry for a while, though it wasn't anything different from what we already knew. He's just as tight lipped as the rest of them. I remember walking through City Hall, but as soon as I entered the Council's chambers, everything is a blur until after I was done and released.
[The nervousness was still palpable, and it made him less willing to move from his spot where he could make a 'quick' get away. This was already not feeling like a meeting he wanted to be apart of after he had this supposed information that required her to come all the way down to meet with him.]
So your experience appears to be the same as the others. What information drew you down here then if you have nothing more to add?
I promised I would update you with new developments. [Which is true. It was a new development, and possibly the start of a pattern. The second time sentencing occurred, with a month skipped in the middle. Was this going to be the new routine? To her, it's actually very valuable information.
But if it was just that, it could easily have been discussed in a message. It didn't have to be in person, and he has every right to be suspicious of this.]
This could have made for a missive, which leads me to believe you're up to something unrelated to your trip to City Hall. [From what he had come to understand and with the interactions that he had had with her, she gave more away bluntly if it was truly of importance. Her directness was something he usually enjoyed.
Now, he suspicious she was here for something else. Business in Rumpitur? No, she had come to see him specifically. Had the Council sent her for him then? Plausible.]
I have other matters to attend to, so out with your information or I'm leaving.
It's not unrelated. [Caitlyn can tell how suspicious he's getting. She's normally more direct, it's true. She was trying to lure him in and at least keep him talking first, before she came out and told him the rest of the truth. At least that way, he'd maybe listen to her. Maybe he'd hear her out and come willingly, the way Marianne did.
But that would be too easy. And she knows better than expect Silco to come quietly. She really hopes Vi is paying attention and ready if he tries to make a run for it.]
My sentencing requirement is to bring in two others for their own sentencing, and I'm afraid the Council has chosen you as well. I'm to bring you to Jerry, myself.
[He knew it. Silco's suspicions were verified the moment she talked of her sentencing, and his expression closed immediately. Peace was never truly an option was it, and the uneasy truce seemed to be a waste of time.
He shook his head then a snort of amusement left his lips.] Always the enforcer dragging down the people of Zaun, aren't you? Here to put a boot on my throat which is typical.
[He didn't run. There was no point, but he had no intention of going anywhere willingly.]
Tell Jerry to come and retrieve me himself. I have no interest dealing with you any longer.
[He turned his back on her and began to simply walk away.]
Wait-- [Caitlyn is not about to let him just walk away, and she's quick to get in his way. She doesn't put her hands on him, not yet, but she's prepared to if she has to.]
That's not-- it doesn't have to be like that. But don't you think it will be worse if Jerry comes himself? Now that I've been inside, we can think of another way to try to get information from this. A wire, recording with a charm-- something. Use this to get information.
[She may not trust him, or honestly want to work together, but she'd rather that than actually be enemies with each other here. That's why she tried to come at this in a friendly manner. She could have easily come and picked him up without question, but she didn't want that.]
[Silco stopped walking when she moved in front of his direct path, causing his blue eye to narrow dangerously.]
Oh no, Jerry and I have history, so he can come do his own dirty work. [He slipped his hands into his coat pockets.] And the idea of watching you fail does bring me an iota of pleasure.
[He knew her idea wouldn't work. There were plenty that would have tried, and if people couldn't remember, then he had no doubt there were means to shut down recordings. It was just like the Council to drive wedges, and in this case, he was perfectly fine with it coming into play.]
Get out of the way, girl. I have business to attend to.
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closed to Marianne
She had to keep reminding herself that she wasn't doing anything other than passing on the message, and hopefully bringing her target to speak to Jerry. The Council was responsible for the rest, but it made her almost sick to her stomach to have to play along. But what choice did she have? She remembered what Akechi had told her. How the Chosen sentenced last time had suffered the longer they waited to complete their tasks. She didn't want to think about what might happened if she didn't do as they asked.
So here she was, approaching the stables. She remembered Marianne. Marianne had helped her rescue her chocobo, Toby. It was because of her help that she was able to see that to chocobo was safe and treated and made it through his injuries. The more she had bonded with the bird, the more grateful she was to Marianne for her assistance. Which made her hate what she had to do all the more.
It was easy to keep up appearances and visit Toby first. She was glad the chocobo was there and not on Astralin's farm (with his disappearance, she was hesitant to leave him there anymore), so she had a decent excuse to be there for now. She just hoped this would go smoothly and not escalate into anything.]
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Oh, hello, Caitlyn.
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Hello, Marianne. How are you?
[Fuck the Council. She felt like she was committing a betrayal, here. But that was probably the point of it, wasn't it?]
closed to Silco and Vi
The good side of this was that Silco deserved everything he got. If anyone had to face the consequences of their actions here, she was glad Silco was on that list. A part of her was even glad that the task was given to her. After chasing after dead ends and getting blocked by Marcus, she was finally going to bring Silco in.
But she also wasn't blind to what this would mean. While she would never call Silco a friend, they at least had a sort of truce. They didn't openly act against each other. She couldn't be sure what would happen after this. Nor could she be sure of how Jinx would react, which was another reason why she hated to involve Vi. The last thing she wanted to do was give Jinx another reason to say she was poisoning Vi against her.
It was all. So much. Gods. Even with the satisfaction of it, she was still plagued with guilt. She didn't like being a pawn to this corrupt Council. She didn't like having her safety hung over her head for compliance. This wasn't how things should be.
And yet, it was how things were. She didn't have to like it, but she was going to use everything she had learned about Jerry and the Council for her benefit. It arguably wasn't a lot, but anything counted in times like this.
The road to Rumpitur was long, but thankfully her chocobo was up to the trek. After making it to her destination, she sent Silco another text, confirming that she had arrived and set a time and place to meet. Being on the road so long, it was only fair that they took some time to rest and refuel. When the time in question neared, she made her way out to the edge of town. She didn't want to be too far away from Rumpitur, but far enough away that if a fight broke out, they wouldn't be noticed. She doubted he would come alone, or at least come without a backup plan, but neither would she. Vi wasn't going to agree to be anywhere else, after all.]
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[ Caitlyn only asked after her well-being but the happiness of the animals might as well be her own. The ongoing tensions with Rumpitur still weigh on her mind, but Marianne can breathe a sigh of relief the kidnapped had been rescued and peace restored.
By this point she's noticed Caitlyn's preoccupied expression and she frowns, wondering what might be troubling her. ]
Um, is everything okay?
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He suspected something was amiss with her sudden willingness to travel to Rumpitur in a hurry rather than wait for his business to conclude. He didn't know her well enough to guess exactly her motivate, but it remained suspect enough that he knew he would have to be smart about her arrival.
He paid a Rumpiturian to discreetly watch for travelers. The description of her matched close to the timing of her text confirming her arrival. She also wasn't traveling alone and the vague description of hair colour and style was enough for him. He expected no less; Jinx's sister had an inkling of what he was capable of far more than the enforcer did.
And just like an arrogant Piltover elite, she gave him ample time to explore the place of their meeting ahead. Out of town with still a view of town in case things didn't go to plan, was it? Two against one, would it be? No, he didn't agree to those odds no matter the information she held and felt so important to provide to him. She didn't enjoy his company or his methods enough to need a meeting quite like that.
Silco covered his tracks by disrupting where his footfalls had been as he returned to town, finding a building that gave him a view of the meeting location. There he waited until the appointed time and sure enough, he confirmed the dynamic duo. It was a shame the war child hadn't agreed to be hired by him; he'd have had both women shot where they stood... starting with Kiramann, of course. Let Vander's prodigy rush the location only to join the same fate.
Too bad. Hiring was proving to be more difficult; people just weren't desperate enough for opportunities. He'd change that with enough time.
For now, he enjoyed his vantage point. He let them wait to five minutes after their appointed time. Exactly five minutes so it was clearly intentional.]
I've heard testimony of your skills with a rifle. Open ground with clear sight lines seems like poor choice for a meeting, Kiramann. Assure me you aren't so naïve to the Undercity to think any one of us would walk out to open ground like that.
[A pause as he watched the pair for a moment. Then he added:]
Correction, one of us is stupid enough to, and she happens to be standing next to you.
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so here she was. even though she was pissy that Caitlyn even wanted to go along with what Jerry wanted to do... but if it's to make Silco's life harder, it might be okay.
after about the five minute mark, she starts tapping her feet and rolling her eyes.]
Motherfucker isn't going to show and we'll have to drag him out of his rat hole, or he's in a little rat hole watching us and giggling about how we're just standing here.
[she starts to squint into the area around her... where would he be hiding, if she were Silco?]
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[Caitlyn knows she shouldn't bother lying. She wracked her brain on how to go about this, and she felt like being honest with Marianne was the best way to handle this. ]
I was chosen for sentencing this month by the Council.
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[Caitlyn is trying to think positively about this. She was trying to go about it in the most calm and professional way. That's why she approached Silco the way she did. Why she came to him, why she chose this spot to meet. It was all attempts to prove she wasn't an enemy. Bringing Vi hadn't been a part of the original plan, but when Vi found out what she was doing, there was no arguing with her.
But before she could even finish her words, her tablet buzzed. She pulled it out, eyes scanning over the message before she holds it out for Vi to see. As Vi reads, Caitlyn does a quick scan of their surroundings, making note of buildings and areas that could be used to watch this spot, before taking the tablet back and starting to type out a reply.]
I was only trying to pick a place that would be convenient for the both of us. If you didn't like it, you could have told me sooner. Where would you rather us meet, or are you going to make me come look for you?
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[ So that was why Caitlyn looked uneasy. Marianne lifts her hand as if to reach out and reassure her, but she thinks twice and ends up folding her hands in front of her, feeling at a loss for what to say. Not for the first time, she wishes she were better with people. She doesn't want to pry too much into the details knowing how personal it is. ]
Will they be keeping you busy? If you need someone to look after Toby for a while...
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If history was any indication, he couldn't stay in one place long. This smelled just a touch too close to a trap, though if she actually had information about the Council, he was curious.]
I expected we would be meeting one-on-one. If you had been bringing a bodyguard, I would have brought my own.
[Meaning, he was alone, and he had no intention of walking into a situation that wasn't in his favour or at least one where he had a strong suspicion that the sister would take a swing at him regardless of the pleasantries.]
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Did he really think I'm going to let you go see him by yourself??? He's a fucking snake!
[oh my god she's so mad. she could punch him right now, but she inhales sharply... and then exhales slowly. she has to be smart about this. any sort of misstep might interfere with her relationship with Jinx...
but maybe she could give him a black eye for the trouble.]
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She sighs, shaking her head, before she continues typing away.]
The roads between Aldrip and here are dangerous. And did you forget I was nearly kidnapped the last time in Rumpitur? There was no way she'd let me come back here by myself. But if you insist we meet face to face alone, I won't argue.
[Though Caitlyn knows Vi would stay close, either way. She would probably need her, if talking to Silco went south. Or when, really.]
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[She was already making plans to head to Rumpitur soon, in search of Silco. Toby would be her way there and back, at least.
Ugh, why couldn't Marianne be an asshole like Silco? She felt way less guilty about the idea of bringing him in. Even now, Marianne was offering her help and being so kind.]
The thing is... The Council-- [dammit. She knew she should just get it out. Get it over with, then deal with the fallout.]
The Council wants me to bring in two Chosen for their sentencing. You were also picked. I'm... so sorry, Marianne. But they want me to bring you to Jerry.
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You understand that people are kidnapped or disappear all the time in the Undercity, but I understand if that's shocking to you as one living in the ivory city.
I will meet with you one-on-one. Leave the brute somewhere visible though so I can keep an eye on her.
[He'd just wait for that news to be dropped and expected a temper tantrum. After all, he clearly wasn't going to be trusted with these two and for good reason. He trusted them just as much.]
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Caitlyn...a look at the other woman's face tells her she doesn't want to bring her in, and the kindly way she breaks it to her softens the blow. Marianne doesn't want to make this any harder on her, and the thought gives her resolve to face her sentencing. She's always intended to surrender quietly. ]
I—I understand. I'll go with you.
[ Her hands smooth the front of her dress anxiously. Hay clings to the fabric and her boots are dirty from her stable work. ]
Um, would you mind if I got changed first? Then I'll go, Caitlyn, I promise.
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What the hell? Fucking coward. He really thinks I trust him that much to let you go talk to him? How do I know he doesn't have a crony around to hurt you??
[she hates this bitch so much]
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We don't. But this won't work unless he lowers his guard, even just a little.
[She was still hoping she could talk to him sensibly about this. She didn't want to be here, doing this either.]
That's fine. Time and place, and I'll meet you there alone.
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Please-- take all the time you need. [Even if she doubted she would have issues convincing Marianne to come with her, she was still flooded with relief that the woman was so agreeable. But she knew Silco would never come this quietly.]
I don't want to be doing this either, I just want you to know that. I wish there was another way. There's so much we don't know about what happens if we don't comply with them.
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You can come to the edge of the buildings and your lesser half can remain right were she is. Once I see you there, I will come to you.
[He remained on the lower level of the current building in a place where he could watch and be mostly hidden to know if his orders were taken. Once Caitlyn seemed to be where he wanted her, he would come out of hiding himself. Alone, as agreed upon in his mind.]
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[ If it had been some intimidating member of the Council, she would definitely feel worse. Marianne tries to manage a smile, but she's never been great at smiling and she's sure it comes out looking weak.
It doesn't take her long to get changed. She comes back in a clean dress and shoes. Prim and proper. If anything, it's her nerves that are frazzled. ]
O-Okay, I'm ready.
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I don't like this at all.
[after she reads his last message, that is.]
I bet we could find where he is no problem, and we can get his little rat ass in no time. It's stupid!
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As Marianne leaves to change, Caitlyn lingers at the stalls, grateful her chocobo seemed none the wiser to her turmoil. If anything, he sensed she was upset and was extra attentive, but that could also be because he knew she still had treats.
But soon enough, Marianne returns, and Caitlyn nods to her.]
I'll stay with you as long as I can, okay? [It's the least she can do, leading the other woman into this mess. It doesn't take long to get to the Council's headquarters from the stalls, and true to her word, Caitlyn intended to stay until Jerry made his appearance.]
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He's more likely to listen to reason. And I doubt he knows about my new magic, or the extent of it anyway. If it comes to a fight, he can't win. He knows that.
[She's been pretty careful with it, she thinks, but she knows Silco's been watching her, as much as she's been watching him.]
Alright. I'm coming.
Just, trust me, okay? I can handle him, Vi. [she gives Vi's hand a squeeze, and a peck to the cheek for good luck, before setting off to building as Silco requested.]
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[ Marianne replies with relief tangible in her voice. She walks with her head bowed, saying a silent prayer to the goddess on the way. She has long resigned herself to judgment and she asks Sothis not for leniency nor forgiveness, but for the strength to face herself and persevere. Because hopeless as she might be, even someone like her has found a reason to go on living.
When they reach the Council, she turns to bid Caitlyn goodbye. A simple 'farewell' feels too glum, so instead— ]
Um, I'll see you again when this is over. We can take Toby to the meadows next time.
[ She doesn't know what her sentence will be nor what will happen from here, but putting her hopes into words gives Marianne something to look forward to. Perhaps through the trials of the past year, she has grown just enough to allow herself a little bit of kindness. ]
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So he watched as Caitlyn moved away from the sister and head as instructed. He kept an eye on the pair of them as the distance grew. A rifle was at certain disadvantages up close and personal after all, but the sister was someone best to avoid in such circumstances.
Only once he was assured that the sister would keep a distance for now did he ease from his hiding spot and travel back to the street, moving to meet with Caitlyn as previously agreed upon. He emerged from the shadow of the building, his hands tucked into his pockets as he kept himself at the corner of the building. It was easier to duck back behind it should he need to.]
This had to be important to bring you down here in such haste. What is it you mean to tell me?
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Fortunately, she had a few knives hidden away and a way to control those, but she didn't want him to know about that yet.]
Like I said when I messaged you, there's been some important developments. I've been inside City Hall.
[Which is...a very blurry memory. She knows she saw the Council, too, but it's nothing she can quite pinpoint or describe. But Silco doesn't need to know that. She's starting off simply to draw him in. Hopefully he'll stay and listen.]
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To Marianne's goodbye, she nods, trying to give her a smile of encouragement. Even now, Marianne continues to be nothing but kind.]
I'd like that. And if you need help, with what they tell you-- let me know. I'll help in any way I can.
[It was something she had already offered to all Chosen, but given her personal hand in this, she wanted to assist her. It only seemed right.]
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So you were sentenced. [The hairs on the back of his neck rose.] How is your account different from those previously sentenced?
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[ That gives her relief to know. No matter how poorly the Council thought of her, or how poorly she thought of herself, the kindness people extend her remind her of her own worth. ]
I'll be off now.
[ With a last nod of goodbye, Marianne turns away. She hopes her coming means Caitlyn's sentence will conclude soon and she'll be let go, free to return to Toby. She'll see them again once her own judgment has concluded. Bracing herself, Marianne steps through the doors of City Hall. ]
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All reports from the last time seem to fit what I experienced. I questioned Jerry for a while, though it wasn't anything different from what we already knew. He's just as tight lipped as the rest of them. I remember walking through City Hall, but as soon as I entered the Council's chambers, everything is a blur until after I was done and released.
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So your experience appears to be the same as the others. What information drew you down here then if you have nothing more to add?
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But if it was just that, it could easily have been discussed in a message. It didn't have to be in person, and he has every right to be suspicious of this.]
But that's not all that happened. There's more.
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Now, he suspicious she was here for something else. Business in Rumpitur? No, she had come to see him specifically. Had the Council sent her for him then? Plausible.]
I have other matters to attend to, so out with your information or I'm leaving.
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But that would be too easy. And she knows better than expect Silco to come quietly. She really hopes Vi is paying attention and ready if he tries to make a run for it.]
My sentencing requirement is to bring in two others for their own sentencing, and I'm afraid the Council has chosen you as well. I'm to bring you to Jerry, myself.
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He shook his head then a snort of amusement left his lips.] Always the enforcer dragging down the people of Zaun, aren't you? Here to put a boot on my throat which is typical.
[He didn't run. There was no point, but he had no intention of going anywhere willingly.]
Tell Jerry to come and retrieve me himself. I have no interest dealing with you any longer.
[He turned his back on her and began to simply walk away.]
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That's not-- it doesn't have to be like that. But don't you think it will be worse if Jerry comes himself? Now that I've been inside, we can think of another way to try to get information from this. A wire, recording with a charm-- something. Use this to get information.
[She may not trust him, or honestly want to work together, but she'd rather that than actually be enemies with each other here. That's why she tried to come at this in a friendly manner. She could have easily come and picked him up without question, but she didn't want that.]
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Oh no, Jerry and I have history, so he can come do his own dirty work. [He slipped his hands into his coat pockets.] And the idea of watching you fail does bring me an iota of pleasure.
[He knew her idea wouldn't work. There were plenty that would have tried, and if people couldn't remember, then he had no doubt there were means to shut down recordings. It was just like the Council to drive wedges, and in this case, he was perfectly fine with it coming into play.]
Get out of the way, girl. I have business to attend to.