Staring into the Abyss [reserved, sonya]

[Trinity]

Wanderlust got the best of Trinity this time as various amount of chatter between various bar patrons, tavern rats, and the general populace within the central part of Ylisse led to the conclusion that there could be something worth checking out in the remote northern part of the continent. That of course would be the area of Talys, in the stories that Trinity heard, it was a place of exile for a certain legendary figure, but Trinity did not take too much stock in such stories. Regardless, she had decided to set off and make her way to the north from the comfortable area of the city, and of course it was rather uneventful. Despite her odd choice of garb that would logically attract bandits given that Trinity almost always traveled alone, it seemed that she exuded some sort of terrifying aura.

By the time she reached Talys, she happened across a remote town that seemed sparsely populated, it seemed as if parts of it had been razed somewhat. Interest piqued; Trinity made her way closer towards the town and decided to investigate what was up. By the time she reached the place, she realized it was a lot worse than she initially thought. Several people were busy trying to inspect wreckage and see if they could fix what was broken. Others were tending to the wounded, or preparing burial rites. Trinity made her way to a man in battered, ruined armor, looking sullenly at a piece of really old paper.

"What's that? What the hell happened here?" Trinity asked, curiosity getting the best of her.

"A bandit group waylaid this town; we attempted to ward them off but amongst their ranks was an incredibly powerful woman... We couldn't do much to stop her despite our best efforts. We're lucky that most of us are even still alive."

"I see. What did she look like?"

"Take a look at this."

Trinity took a closer look at the old parchment paper that the man held which he passed to her. An attractive woman with long black hair was pictured, and it seemed as if she had been a target for a while now. "What if I were to take down this lady for you? Is there a reward, or a renewed bounty for her head?"

"Probably. I'm honestly not sure."

"No matter. I've been looking for some excitement."

"What makes you think you can take her on your own?"

"It takes one to know one, sir."

The man Trinity spoke to stared at her horrified, but Trinity just softly smiled and walked past him, looking around and also inspecting the results of the bandit's carnage. "This looks terrible. I wonder where she could be." Trinity muttered to herself as she made her way past the busted cottages and ruined stalls, moving along the battered path and committing the image of the lady to mind.

[Sonya]

Hooo boy, this was a situation that Sonya had never thought she'd find herself in. Banditry was all well and good, and not really all that different from the trouble she got into before fleeing to Plegia. Or after, once the 'training' and organization were taken out. And her crew weren't really bad people. Most of them got forced into the brigand life by circumstance, rather than any kind of predisposition towards pillaging and burning. Some had had farms burn down or be overrun by Risen, while others had lost everything to, of all things, other bandits. There were days when Sonya suspected that she was by far the worst person among them. So, with the right motivation and direction, she could push them into being something better. But no, the blasted steward of Ylisse was paying them to cause trouble.

A nearby small town had been Sonya's latest victim. She'd tried to minimize the damage, and the crew had managed to raze only parts of the town rather than the whole thing. That was a regular practice, at least. The only difference this time was that a few locals had turned out to be retired soldiers, and tried to drive them off. Sonya had ended up dealing with them personally, but purposefully left them alive.

Maybe that was a mistake.

"This could be trouble," Sonya said, watching one of the surviving veterans through a spyglass as he talked with a beautiful young woman. It took a second, but she recognized her from a description the steward's messenger had given. Another target. A Plegian assassin apparently, although mercifully not one she recognized from her time with Velia's organization. She'd heard the occasional rumor though, and both the rumors and the messenger had put a nickname to the description: the 'Crimson Witch'. Whether it had any significance or not, though...she'd just have to find that out.

"How'd we miss a target like that?" asked a fellow bandit still accompanying her, presumably only noticing that she looked like an easy mark. "Should we go after her once she's out of town?"

Sonya shook her head. "No...I want to deal with her personally," Sonya said. "Go ahead and head back. I'll be fine from here." The other bandit nodded and left, leaving Sonya alone near the edge of town. She was still out of sight for the moment, lest any townspeople on watch spot her, but that would change once the other woman got close enough.

Sonya had thought she'd have to set a trap for a target like her. Not that the woman would come right into her territory.

[Trinity]

Trinity looked up at the sky for a moment. The day... Seemed to be passing by quickly. Or maybe she was just impatient. Regardless, Trinity looked about after talking to some of the more resolute survivors of the attack. Indeed, it was clear that the bandit attack was more co-ordinated than standard-fare charges, and it seemed that the attack was more ordered and staged than one made on a whim. Trinity knew the difference; the systematic attack and the fact that there were survivors to begin with - typical banditry would involve the entire package. There would be no one here to talk to to begin with had the attack been a genuine one. Trinity licked her lips in excitement. Heh. Somebody ordered that lady's group to attack this village. But why? How curious.

Trinity continued walking along the beaten path, soon approaching the outskirts at a solemn but steady pace. Soon, she stopped and grinded to a halt after a moment. She sniffed the air. "I smell blood. Blood on somebody's hands. Hands that aren't mine!" Trinity called out as she held out her hand and snapped her fingers, warming herself up as her dark tome was held in the other hand tightly this time. Laughing, Trinity intentionally walked forward. "I'll willingly come to you!" she cried out once again, walking and walking, expecting that somebody was actually still lingering.

If the person Trinity had sniffed out was the lady herself, well, that just made things much better. Besides, she looked very attractive from the photo. Trinity thought for a moment about whether she really wanted to kill her or not, but she'd have to see her first and get an impression. If the person around was even the lady she was hunting, after all.

[Sonya]

How...bold. Sonya hadn't expected to be noticed that easy, although the retreating bandit could possibly be to blame. More interesting than being noticed though was the other woman's words. She wasn't even trying to deny who she was. Sonya would have believed that she was perfectly capable of appearing innocent (although she wouldn't have bought the act itself), but no, the approaching woman all but openly admitted to having blood on her hands as well. And then the next part, 'I'll willingly come to you'... Hohoh. If they weren't likely about to try to kill each other, Sonya might have taken that as an invitation for...other activities.

Maybe she could still make that work, somehow.

She eyed the woman's weapon. A magic tome of some sort, probably dark magic. Troubling, but she'd dealt with it before. She was still walking closer, as well. Good. Just a moment and she'd be close enough that Sonya could close the distance before the 'Crimson Witch' could get a spell off. Just a little more, and...perfect.

"As you wish," Sonya said, stepping out from behind a boulder where she'd been hiding. She held a short single-edged blade lightly over her shoulder just in case, but otherwise she was relaxed. "Hello to you too," she said, smiling gently at the other woman.

[Trinity]

Almost predictably, somebody did appear. Fortunately for Trinity, it was the lady who looked quite to be the one described in the pictures she saw on that poster. Now that she had a good look at her, Trinity smiled warmly as she realized that she was real pretty. Those mystifying eyes, those luscious locks of jet-black hair... Indeed, Trinity was already having second thoughts about wanting to have her dead with her head on a silver platter. She wanted to have her excitement in other manners. In any case, Trinity realized she had walked a distance such that she couldn't throw out her spells without harming herself in the process; she had already fallen into the trap. Willingly, mind you. And Trinity was very much aware of this fact. She saw the woman have a blade on her person, most likely ready to bring it out at a moment's notice.

"So you're the pretty woman I was informed about. It's such a shame that I even entertained the idea of having you dead to my magic," Trinity said softly. "So, instead, I'd like to see if I can push my luck, eh? After all, I'm already in your kill zone. That's already a lot of the thrill I desire. You could rush up to me right now and shank me if you wanted me dead. Conversely, I could do the same to you. It's a stand-off, in a way. But first... Who ordered you to lay waste to a town like this? It's... uncharacteristic to have such an attack."

[Sonya]

Ooh, she was even prettier up close. And astute, too, since after the compliment and confirmation that she'd come after Sonya, she noted that she was already in range for Sonya to deal with her. And that raiding the town had been an order of sorts. Sonya giggled. "Ooh, you're clever. I like that," she said. "It's a shame I'm supposed to kill you. But since you're so astute, I'll indulge you for a moment.

"Yes, I was ordered to do this. I can't name names, since they're currently keeping me alive in business. But...let's just say that someone high up has been a real troublemaker lately. I mean, really, setting marauders against their own people?" Sonya sighed softly. She didn't have any attachment to these people, but she would have thought that a country's leaders did. She didn't have a clue how that sort of thing actually worked, but it seemed like a bandit problem would reflect badly on the people who were supposed to be ensuring the country's protection. "And what about you? I wasn't expecting you to just walk right into my territory like this."

[Trinity]

Trinity's grip on her book tightened a little bit. She was ready for a surprise attack at any moment, but fortunately it seemed as if the lady was willing to satisfy her curiosity for the time being. Her heartbeat was pumping, going off on autopilot, as Trinity wondered when this encounter would go awry, if it ever would go awry. The lady explained that indeed, she was ordered to do this. Trinity also respected that she could not explicitly name names, but from how she mentioned that 'someone high up' had been 'a real troublemaker' and that 'setting marauders against their own people' was involved... Trinity reckoned that things in Ylisse were not all they seemed, either. From how she spoke, Trinity figured that the lady did not wish to kill like that anymore, but she hadn't a choice in the matter.

"As for me? Well, you can say that I was bored. I left my homeland of Plegia in search of bigger challenges. Bigger pay. I grew weary of the small fry tasks I was made to do. Boring assassinations that I couldn't have any fun with. Nothing involving political intrigue. I heard rumors about attacks in the north, so I made my way here, and found this town. That's how I learned about you. Of course, it figures you'd still be here, so what better way to get you to appear than to simply appear to give myself up? There's a certain excitement and thrill in walking right up to your enemy, fearless."

Under any normal circumstance, Trinity would be considered a fool.

But she wasn't called the Crimson Witch for nothing.

[Sonya]

Sonya's grip remained loose, but it was the sort of grip that could tighten in an instant. With her weapon held over her shoulder with the grip right at her face, she could attack in an instant. She watched the other woman closely, taking in every little movement. Any sign that she was about to make a move would be Sonya's cue to attack. But on the outside, she still appeared relaxed, as though she was in no danger at all. Maybe if she was lucky, she wouldn't have to attack at all. The other woman seemed much like Sonya: a thrill-seeker. But there were plenty more ways to indulge oneself than by taking lives. Maybe this woman understood them as well.

And if so, Sonya could do this job the right way, rather than the way she used to do things.

"Is that so...well then, I'm here. What will you do now? Attack me? Try to bring me in? I've been doing this for a very long time, and the number of people who want me dead must be at least as big as my body count." She sighed, almost sadly. "I won't be easy prey, I can assure you of that much. Although, I'm sure you'd know all about that, Crimson Witch." She gave the woman a knowing smile. "So what will you do?"

[Trinity]

Trinity could tell that the woman before her was equally ready to make a move in case things devolved into something more bloody. The weapon was held over the shoulder and Trinity caught how the hilt was right in front of her face, so all it took was a quick wrist movement and off went Trinity's head (or some other body part). It seemed that the two of them were just as relaxed as one another. In any case, the woman she was tasked to kill began to talk again, mentioning how she was there too; Trinity had the choice as well. And then a smile.

What would she do, indeed?

"I see, so you've heard about me. I didn't come here thinking you would be easy prey, either. The thrill of the hunt can be a great one, but... I don't think I could bring myself to harm someone as beauteous as yourself without feeling... you know, incredibly dirty. It's like destroying a historically significant statue, or ruining a wonderful, ancient painting. It just isn't right, you know?" Trinity sighed, relaxing herself further, making it clear to the other woman that she was clearly thinking about changing her mind about hunting her.

"You're thinking what I'm thinking, right? Maybe we can redirect our... talents and instincts on other things?"

[Sonya]

Sonya giggled again, but then pouted slightly. "Come on, we have to be around the same age. Don't go acting like I'm some ancient treasure. Although, I guess I'm flattered that you feel that way." She took a step closer. She still held the blade next to her head, but she made no move to attack. Or defend. To the untrained eye, she would seem wide open. But Sonya knew that the Crimson Witch would know better. But, either way, it didn't matter. Unless the other woman did something first, Sonya had no intention of attacking her.

No, it seemed like both of them had other things at mind.

"You're suggesting we find somewhere more private and cozy?" Sonya asked, returning to the same knowing smile. "Because if not, then that's what I'm suggesting. You're quite beautiful yourself, and I'd hate for us to kill each other or even part ways without getting to know each other a bit better first. " She turned her head slightly to the side, and gave the other woman a wink.

[Trinity]

Trinity grinned as the woman took the veiled compliment in stride, and then said woman took a step closer; still holding the blade, prepared to strike back should Trinity have made a move. Fortunately, Trinity knew how this operation worked. As long as neither of them attempted to make a move on each other, neither of them would be dying today. Hopefully. Furthermore, it seemed both of them were thinking of something other than attempting to mortally wound each other, which was good. Trinity figured that if this woman was at least half as threatening as what was described to her, she was already someone worth watching out for. "Private and cozy? Those are words I haven't used out of my vocabulary in years, heh..." Trinity giggled, smiling.

"I'm just as flattered by your kind words, madam," Trinity grinned, playfully sticking out her tongue. "I'd love to accept your invitation, but what about your comrades? Wouldn't they wonder where you've run off to? They may look for us, even though I assume you informed them you would be dealing with me... personally." Trinity inquired, now looking completely relaxed and non-threatening. She would not be raising a finger against this woman now, not after the invitation of being able to experience a strange feeling called "settling down somewhere nice and cozy."

[Sonya]

"Then this will be almost like a new experience for you, then," Sonya said, smiling and drawing closer. She lowered the blade from her shoulder and sheathed it at her side once the other woman relaxed completely. Then, hearing the other woman's question, Sonya laughed gently. "I'll sometimes disappear for a few days at a time when 'dealing with' people. Besides, they know where to find me. And they know to stay away if I have the right signs up, so to speak. So, don't worry about them. They'll leave us alone."

By this point, Sonya was only a few feet away from the other woman, and likewise looked completely non-threatening. She extended a hand to her, still smiling. "My name's Sonya, by the way. I haven't paid attention to what 'clever' nicknames I've accumulated over the years, but I can say with confidence that I'd rather not be known by any of them. So, just Sonya. So, what do you say?"

[Trinity]

Trinity's smile widened a little when she realized the woman before her sheathed her blade. Up close, she was really a sight to behold, a true exemplary femme fatale, so to speak. Trinity knew immediately that she was different from the rest; she would need to display lots of mental caution and avoid angering her or provoking her. Though, with how things have progressed thus far, Trinity felt that she would be just fine on that front. The lady explained that sometimes she would disappear for a few days at a time during these times, and that 'they' knew where to find her after a certain point. So in other words, they would be perfectly fine.

The lady, now only a few feet away from Trinity, extended a hand for a handshake, introducing herself as Sonya. "A beautiful name for a beautiful lady like yourself," Trinity said, taking the hand and giving a handshake in return. "As for me, my name is Trinity, and my hand is yours; I shall follow you wherever it is you wish to take me." she continued, smiling. Despite Sonya's relaxed expression, it was entirely possible that Trinity could just be strung along. That mere possibility, small as it might have been, added to the excitement a little bit. Then again...

Trinity really didn't care at this point. She could handle herself if she weren't asleep at the time.

[Sonya]

The woman introduced herself as Trinity. Sonya smiled. It was a genuine smile, despite what Sonya was planning. This wouldn't be the first time she'd led a target on, and it sadly probably wouldn't be the last either. She didn't feel anything for killing. No remorse or regret, not even the thrill that she used to. Nowadays she had to turn to other things for thrills. And as for her 'methods' of dealing with people like Trinity, that was part of it. But there was another reason as well. She wanted them to be happy, n their last moments.

Time would tell if things would go different this time. But at the moment, Sonya couldn't see a good way out.

"It's a pleasure, Trinity," Sonya said. She then used the hand Trinity had taken to pull her in and slip her other arm around her. "I have a cabin that's about an hour's walk from here. It used to be some noble's woodland retreat for when they went on hunting trips but, ahh, they're not around anymore to miss it. If you're up for the trip, we can spend the night there. In the meantime, I wouldn't mind hearing more about you."

[Trinity]

Trinity nodded as Sonya smiled. She had a feeling that she shouldn't be too complacent about her current position. As it stood, Trinity was playing under Sonya's terms rather than her own, and that of course meant that the potential for imminent danger towards her own life was always there. The way this was going, Trinity had a feeling that if danger led the way; she would be treated to a night out with Sonya, before her life would be taken due to her guard being let down. That seemed like the most logical way to handle something like this, after all - death through kindness. Soon, Trinity felt Sonya's arm around her.

"Oh, a cabin? Well, that's quite convenient. I'd be willing to tell you more about me along the way, simply lead the way," Trinity said, smiling again as she waited for Sonya to lead her to the said cabin.

"You may know this already, but I'm Plegian. I have more Fell blood in me than should be reasonable in a person, so naturally I was treated like garbage when I decided I cared more about coin and fame than I cared about the resurrection of his..." Trinity pulled out the air quotes. "his eminent majesty the mighty Fell Dragon, Grima. That is to say, I cared naught for it. So I was disowned by my family. Not that I cared, of course. I don't resent them one bit for it. They can do all their worshipping for all I care. It's just not my deal, right?" she continued, smiling and looking a bit melancholic.

"So I had to do what most street rats had to do - steal and scavenge. I got good at what I did; had to kill sometimes. Had to use my magic and skills to thrive. S'how I became a wanted criminal back in Plegia."