Little Slices of Death

[Savacea Jovellana]

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18th Spring 516av
Little Slices of Death

Walking on the crushed shell path, Savacea made her way through different people, heading towards the depths of the Swamp. Reactions of individuals differed depending on their station in Kenash. Some would sneer at her, others looked upon her with fear, then there were those who were curious of her. The Symenestra reacted as she usually did. With a deathly glare and a sneer planted on her face, at all individuals she passed. Her head never went down, her eyes stayed ahead of her. She would not be ashamed of her race, who she was, or her appearance.

Once off of the path, away from the bodies and sneering faces, she breathed easier. The sun hung in the sky, giving moderate warmth below. The Swamps were more wooded however, making it a bit more chilled, except when tendrils escaped through the trees and in that moment there were patches of warmth in the darkened Swamp. Willows swayed in the breeze, the lichen dancing to a ghostly tune on the air. Inhaling deeply, the Swamp smelled of rotted vegetation and murky waters.

Savacea kept walking, deeper and deeper she went into the Swamp, leaving the city of Kenash further behind her as she searched for something she could craft into a poison. Various plants looked promising, however she was searching for a swamp fungus. Assuming the fungus would be promising, as it grew in toxic conditions, she had high hopes. However, she would not know how the poison turned out, until she tested it on someone first.

Her bare-feet sunk into the moist ground, leaving puddles in her wake as she traversed the bog like land. Nearing a body of water, she looked around the edges. Among the swamp leaves sprouted out a bright yellow fungus. It was not very larger, perhaps her index finger long. The cap was slender and shaped like a club. The stalked appeared white with a slight hue of pink to it. Getting on her knees she gave the shroom a closer observation. It cropped out as one, with smaller fungi surrounding it. Looking around there were many, like little beacons in the swamp. Swamp Beacon had to be the mushroom she was looking at, she had heard about them briefly, but never really studied them or used them before.

Shrugging off her kit, she delved inside, putting on her leather gloves and pulling out a jar and tweezers. Taking the tweezers Savacea placed it at the very base of the mushroom, plucking it from it's muddy haven and depositing it into the jar. She was careful with the harvesting of the mushroom, as she did not know all of it's properties just yet or how fragile it could be. So far, the stalks and caps seemed sturdy enough. Exactly how toxic, or if at all, was yet to be determined as she continued her harvesting of the tiny beacons. She filled the jar half-way, capping it and placing it back into her kit, she set back on her heels gazing around her.

This place gave off an energy of warning and danger. However, it had a wildness to it that Savacea appreciated. Though, not as eerie as the Black Marsh, the Swamps of Kenash still had a eldritch air about it. Savacea breathed in deeply, her body relaxing for once since she had been in Kenash. She had been on guard the whole time, as there were too many living bodies around. Her days in Sunberth had taught her to trust no one and to always expect a knife in the back. Out in the Swamps however it all drifted away and a small semblance of peace entered her.

[Savacea Jovellana]

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She was only able to enjoy that small amount of peace for a short while. She heard in the distance the sound of feet hitting the sloppy mud. Rising up she gathered her belongings, placing the kit back on her back and the mushrooms in the jar she hid in her backpack. Sighing in disappoint she made her way out of the swamp and back to civilization once more. Kenash was a great city, a fine city, although she did not really fit into it. It was too posh for her. The way the people pranced around in their fine clothes sickened her. It appeared the place was all about who had the most money and power, which just was not her thing. Sure, there was a darker side to the city, which she liked. But it just did not over come the sickening way the posh lifestyles many had made her feel.

Shrugging it off, she went to her room. Bringing out the jar of Swamp Beacon mushrooms she grinded them into a fine powder, placing that powder inside a vial and putting it between her breasts to heat up as she traveled to her work. The casino she worked at was a fine place too. All sorts of finery and posh like decorations covered the area. However, the owner wanted to gain more ground and would do so by any means. This is where Savacea came in. She assisted her by poisoning those she wished to dispose of. Whether it by to the death or just stomach problems, it was her duty to get it done.

She made it into the casino, flashing a fang smile to her boss who gave her a nod. Walking over she pointed in the direction of a woman, dressed rather nice in a long flowing silk gown, “Dispose of her. By any means.” Anessa said with a growl. It was obvious she did not care for the woman in the least. Savacea did not ask any questions though, as it was not her business to know. She gave a nod, “It will be done.” She promised Anessa who smiled and walked off to assist a customer with his gambling. Patting her chest she felt the vial setting securely between her bosom, out of sight, and safe.

Walking up to the counter she grabbed a tray and started to work as a waitress. Although her real job was poison, she could not do this in the open. Walking around the Casino the scent of smoke and rum made her nostrils flare. It mixed and mingled with the heat of bodies, though the sweet scent of tobacco covered most of it, it was still slightly sickening to her. She made her rounds though, serving the paying customers their free alcohol. She even was able to serve the woman Anessa wanted to be disposed of. She made a mental note to bring the tray around again, as the woman was getting quite tipsy from drinking so many delectable cocktails. Grabbing another tray she went around again, making sure she had two of the woman's cocktails that she seemed to love on the tray. “I brought theses two for you so you do not have to go with out.” Savacea said with a closed smile, so her fangs would not show. The woman chuckled, the type a drunk woman would give, grabbing both of the cocktails and expressing her sincere thanks to Savacea.

Savacea brought the empty tray back and kept her red leering eyes on the woman. Observing how she stumbled slightly when she walked, giggling at herself. She was currently leaning against a wall, with many different men surrounding her taking advantage of her drunken state. It was obvious in their body language what they intended for the woman, or was hoping to get from her. However, she did not seem interested, brushing them off with a flick of her hand and a frown on her pretty face. She was drunk but it was obvious she was not going to be easy. Perhaps she wanted the attention of another woman, although the thought made Savacea want to run outside and empty the contents of her stomach, she would do what she had to do to finish her job.

“Make me a sweet cocktail. Make it strong.” Savacea called behind the counter. It was not but three chimes later that she had a cocktail that smelled delicious, although the amount of alcohol inside of it made her nose burn slightly. Slipping the fine powder she had of the fungus she recently gathered, she emptied it into the cocktail, making sure no one saw. Once it was safe she placed the now empty vial back between her breasts, picking the glass up and swirling it with the rotation of her wrist. Dissolving the fine powder as much as she could. She doubt the woman would question the flecks that floated inside, as she was too drunk to even walk. Casting a glance at her, Savacea noticed how she was fanning herself, the alcohol making her skin heat up. Now was her chance to get the woman alone and off to herself, so she could poison her and dispose of the woman for Anessa.

[Savacea Jovellana]

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Savacea went over to her prey, eyes set on her and never wavering. The woman did not seem to notice she was being stalked, as she rolled her head back, fanning at her throat. She made it to the woman in a few ticks, poisoned cocktail in hand, “Would you like me to walk you outside?” Savacea asked the woman, fake concern feeling her red orbs. The woman rolled her head back down, looking at her with squinting eyes. “Who are you?” The woman asked, shaking her head slightly as if she was seeing two of Savacea. “I am here to help is all. No one special.” Savacea replied with a grin, offering the drink to the woman, “I brought you this since you liked them so much.” She offered the cocktail to the woman who took the drink. “That I do. Perhaps too much. I feel so hot.” She tipped the cocktail back, drinking a large quantity before placing it on a nearby table. “Maybe I should stop drinking.” The woman said with a small laugh.

Savacea nodded her head, “Perhaps that would be best.” She peered over at the drink, noting that half was already emptied, enough to cause the woman severe stomach problems but not to kill her. She offered her arm, “Let's go outside. The night air will cool you off.” Savacea said with a smile, as the woman looped her arm around her own and she led her out. The night air was not exactly cold but it was cool this night. It would help her flushed skin and make her feel a little better. Well, that was until the poison of the fungus hit her system anyway.

“Thank you for your kindness. The men were bothering me, offering the same.” The woman said, sighing as she fanned her face once more with her dainty hand, “I have no need of a man's help.” She said with a laugh, “Us women must stick together.” She offered again, her drunken speech made little sense, though some parts did to Savacea. She too had no need of a man. She gave a fake laugh, “I agree. Men are no good.” She told the woman, still helping her keep her body upright as they looked out at the night vista. “Do you always gamble at Lucre?” Savacea inquired of her prey, wondering if she was a customer every night, or if this would be her fist night in the Casino.

“Oh I come here often. Although Anessa does not seem fond of it. She really doesn't like me.” The woman said with a throaty laugh. “Back when we were younger I stole the man she liked. It is all in the past but I think she still holds it against me.” The woman gave a shrug, dismissing it. She obviously held no grudge but found it humorous that Anessa was still angered by it. Savacea thought it silly that Anessa would poison a woman for something that happened so long ago. Her opinion however did not matter, she did what she had to do. Craft poisons, poison those Anessa wished, feel no remorse and only see it as a job.

“Well that is silly of her. But you did not hear that from me.” Savacea told the woman, chuckling softly, “Some have a hard time letting go of the past though.” The woman nodded in agreement, her hand going to her stomach as she cleared her throat. “Yes they do. I am not feeling too well.” The woman was starting to sweat, her complexion becoming pale, as she grasped at her stomach. “Oh it hurts.” She told Savacea as she wrapped both arms around her gut, “What is happening to me?” She cried out to Savacea.

“Perhaps you had too much to drink dear.” Savacea said, her tone held worry, although it was fake. “Maybe the cocktails are not agreeing with you.” Savacea said, patting the woman's back. The woman nodded as he complexion became even more pale, then she leaned over and started to empty the contents of her stomach. She would be like this until the poison left her system. Her stomach would feel as if daggers were stabbing it from the inside, the contents of her belly would be emptied from both ends, as she suffered. Then she would be dehydrated and weak, not able to leave her house for a few days until it passed. “Maybe you should head home.” Savacea told the woman, who only nodded in response and walked off. One more victim was down and out of the way.

[Savacea Jovellana]

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Savacea entered the Casino once more, missing the feel of the night air and the clean aroma. She had more work to do, she knew this by the way Anessa motioned her forward. She made her way through the drunken bodies of gamblers, as she looked up at Anessa, “Yes?” Savacea asked the woman, wondering what it could be she needed of her now.

Anessa looked around them, making sure no one was listening or observing their interaction, “Is it done? Is she gone?” Savacea nodded, “She will probably have shyke all in her dress before arriving home. Causing humiliation to her and will be down and out for a few days, if not longer if she wishes to not show her face in public after shitting herself.” Savacea explained with no emotion, as she felt none, it was just a job. Anessa however about fell over in laughter, “OH GODS!” She roared laughing heartily, “That is just beautiful. I hope she feels the same humiliation she made me feel.” Anessa said more quietly, still chuckling to herself, “Thank you for your hardwork. However, there is another here I would like you to tend to.” Anessa nodded her head in the direction of this person, who was a man. He was a decent looking man, well built, pretty face, muscular frame from hard work. She would not mind interaction with him in the least, if she was honest with herself.

“I did not bring any poison with me.” Savacea began to explain, before she was done Anessa pushed a vial in her hands discreetly. Savacea frowned and peered down at it, before placing it between her breasts like she did all her vials of poison. “What is this?” She asked of Anessa and the woman gave a evil smile. “It is Greenblood Oil. Made from vines that grow around here. Don't ask where I got it, because I can not say. But it will make that strong man physical weak and he will be humiliated by it. As he is known for his strength. It will give me a smile to see him fail.” Anessa said with a hushed tone, laughing in a whisper. The woman was more evil than she appeared to be. Gaining entertainment from other's distress. It was a beautiful thing and perhaps Savacea would be laughing too if she had the luxury to do so.

“Now this type has to be delivered into the blood-stream. But I am sure you will find a way to accomplish this deary. I must be off to watch this delightful scene you will make for me.” Anessa said with a broad smile, sauntering off. Savacea growled, she was becoming less and less happy working for the woman. She seemed to be the type that always got her way, if she did not she reacted like a spoiled brat. Though she was strong and worked hard, treated her servants and slaves well, there was a irritating dark side to her that Savacea found a little annoying.

Savacea looked down at her crescent claws, that was the only weapon she had to deliver the poison. It would have to work, if not then she supposed she would be physically weak for a little while, which was nothing new to her. She was not exactly the strongest anyways. Taking the vial out that had been heated between her breasts, she poured the oil on her claws, making them shine and glisten. The aroma was actually nice, it smelled of pine. The oil was a dark green color, though it did not show up on her black claws. Placing it between her bosom had help make the oil thinner and easier to apply.

Grabbing some rum from a tray she sauntered over to the handsome man. Hoping her unworldly beauty would not scare him away. He seemed to be a ladies man, loving the attention, so perhaps he would not turn-tail and run from her seducing and flirting. She stood before him, looking him up and down with her curious red orbs, a small smile playing at the corner of her lips as she made it blatantly obvious she liked what she was seeing. To say otherwise would be a lie. He was a good-looking male, however he was also her target so she could not let herself feel anything other than appreciation for his good looks.

“Hi there gorgeous.” Savacea purred up at the man, who was taller than she was. He brought his attention from a fine looking woman to herself, he looked down at her with no interest in his eyes as he gave a nod in greeting. She was used to be turned down, it was nothing knew to her, however this man was been rude as he did not really acknowledge her but instead went back to chatting to the pretty little blonde that was running her hands up and down his muscled arm. Now I see why Anessa wanted to poison him.. Savacea thought to herself. The blonde looked over at her, giving her a mean smirk, making Savacea want to dig her claws into her pretty face. This was embarrassing, she was putting herself out there to only be rejected and looked at as if she was dirt beneath their feet. She cleared her eyes of the fury, pasted a fake smile on her face making sure the fangs flashed at the blonde who balked at her and looked at her with more fright than disgust now. “I just wanted to bring you this rum sir.” Savacea said, placing it down before the man.

The handsome male went to grab the rum, and Savacea accidentally let her long claws slash him. They were long after all, accidents happened. Besides it did not cut deeply, just enough to get the poison in his blood-stream. He yelped slightly, scowling down at her, “Watch what you are doing, you monstrous thing!” The man yelled out at her, making her flinch slightly. She gave him a shrug, “My apologies.” She told him, bowing her head slightly. “That stung a little, get those things away from me.” The man said on a growl, rubbing the scratches on his arm. Savacea gave a shrug, “I thought you were strong, guess I was wrong. The way you are acting reminds me of a child who fell and hurt his knee.” She poked the man, stabbing his ego she knew.

The man growled, turning his back to the blonde who pouted at not having his attention, “I am strong. I will prove it!” He told Savacea, obviously not liking his strength to be in question, especially by someone like herself. Savacea gave a half-smile, “Prove it to all then. Go lift that solid wood table over there.” She gestured to the table and walked off, leaving the man to his anger and proving to her and everyone how strong he was. Savacea made it to the counter of the bar, sat down on a stool and watched as the man stalked over to the table.

He bent his knees, placing his palms on the underside of the table, and tried to lift it up off the floor. However, no matter how hard he tried he could not get it up off the floor. The man had veins popping out at his forehead, sweat beading on his brow, as he continued to try and lift the table up off the floor. No matter how hard he tried, he could not lift it up more than three inches from the floor. And he did try, he tried many times until he fell on his arse in humiliation as everyone around laughed at him. Then a smaller boy came up and lifted the table with no problem, flexing his arm muscles as he looked down on the handsome man, laughing at him. Savacea peered over at Anessa who was rolling with laughter at the man, so much so that tears began to stream down her face.

Poison was not meant to kill. Poison had many other effects to a person besides that. It could cause damage on different levels besides physical too, if made correctly. This man was being poisoned for humiliation, as well as the woman previously. It was not meant to harm them necessarily, not meant to kill, instead it was a lesson for them. A lesson that they were not all that they thought themselves to be. It was meant to humble them through humiliation. Or at least that is how Savacea viewed it, as a smirked played on her lips, watching the handsome man who rejected her, sit there in shock.

The casino quieted down, or as quiet as it could be anyway. The man left the casino, leaving his pride on the floor where the table was. Savacea cleansed her claw like nails of the oil, to prevent any further poisoning of anyone else. Anessa had no more for her to do that night, so she instead went around serving drinks and food to the customers who were gambling, to finish her night. After all she was supposed to be a pleasant, smiling waitress. Not the poison crafter that she actually was. She had to keep the act up, for a little while longer, until she could leave Kenash and head off to her next destination, her next adventure.

[Konrad Venger]

Hey, Savacea! Once you get back and deduct your Seasonal Expenses, I'll grade this up, no problem. PM me when you get back!