Realm of Holocene, a Game of Thrones-esque world with fewer politics and more creatures. Mystical and Believable.
Aden El-Rahm, a young sellsword with a -cool, calm, and confident- demeanor who holds a debauchery secret, finds himself facing a fate...
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The inquiror stretched his arms overhead as he and the apprentice made their way towards the Dancing Turtle tavern. "Setting out on a breathtaking adventure - winning glorious wars, claiming mountains of treasure - that's the dream fueling every boy from the humblest village to the grandest town across the Wessen continent," he mused.
Gesturing vaguely at their opulent surroundings, he added, "But for the girls? Having a lavish, glittering life here in the capital of Lyondyn is the lofty aspiration."
As they neared the tavern's swinging doors, two familiar figures in the distinctive crimson cloaks of the Crown's enforcers emerged. "You there!" Albert called out, bidding them a halt. "Enforcers!"
"Aye, sir?" one of the watchmen replied, snapping to attentive readiness.
"I don't need to ask if you're aware of the recent reaping committed by these black widow malefactors." It was not a question.
The two exchanged a terse glance before the apparent senior of the pair responded, "We are, sir. Dreadful business."
Albert nodded curtly. "Then relay these instructions to your captain posthaste: Double patrols and security in the entertainment district immediately. And assign two of your best watchmen to each of the remaining 'Three Princesses' - have them roll shifts around the clock until we've rooted out the murderer. These girls are not to be left unwatched, not even for a moment." His eyes bored into them, allowing no room for argument.
"It will be done, sir," the enforcer assured him. "You have my word."
With a succinct gesture of dismissal, the two watchmen scurried off to convey Albert's orders.
The inquiror was afforded such latitudes - widely respected as a senior agent, he could circumvent the chain of command when situations demanded immediate action. Still, he endeavored to follow protocols out of respect for the system.
As the enforcers' vibrant cloaks disappeared into the crowds, Albert turned back to his young charge. "Come along then. A pint of ale is in order, I think before we press on to the next grim errand of our duty..."
Mentor and apprentice claimed a table by the wide window, bright sunlight streaming in to bathe them in warmth. Lalisa spoke up as they settled onto the sturdy oak benches. "Our first priority must be finding this killer."
Albert gave a grave nod. "Indeed. The modus operandi is consistent - snapped necks requiring immense strength." He frowned, recalling the grisly crime scene details. "And from witness accounts, our perpetrator is a huge, burly fellow. Hideously scarred face missing front teeth."
"Lalisa." The inquiror addressed his protégé directly. "Where did you say this ruffian hailed from again?"
