Completed Cold Pursuit (Miro)

[Inoadar]

72nd of Summer, 513

The polished glass was sufficient to reflect the too-familiar image. Inoadar made an effort to give no sign of noticing as he smoothly took another long swallow of ale. He had come to The Spot just for relaxation this time. But this figure in the red an blue trench style coat was easily distinguished. Even distorted as it was on the surface of the glass, there was no one here with that...face...

The long black hair was nothing unusual, but the black skull, the red scroll work framing it...It had to be a mask. Just as it had to have been a mask when he rode the ravosala earlier that day. Just as it had to be a mask at the front counter at Tarsin's Boarding House a few days before. And again at Tine's, where Inoadar often went to find odds and ends. It all pointed to one conclusion: Someone was tracking him again.

It would certainly not have been the first time someone came to town tracking the Nykan expatriate, Inoadar. He'd left that city with a bounty on his head, and occasionally, someone came collecting. Each time, they had left in defeat or in pieces. Inoadar's confidence was boasting declarations that this time would be no different. But there was something exceptional about this new one. Something...inescapable.

The first time Inoadar had seen him, he'd assumed he was some mercenary connected to the "dispute" between Gru'tral's assumed return to prominence and Lazarin's contention that, as the new incumbent, his authority suffered no such obligation. But casual surveillance had marked no attendance to either camp. But it HAD marked a disturbing tendency to visit locations frequented by himself.

Since then, Inoadar had checked his contacts at the Southern Trading Post. The guard confirmed him to be a new arrival in town, up from the south. Although that could certainly mean Nyka, it could pretty much mean anywhere else as well. So he'd made a point of looking into it. The desk clerk at Tarsin's had taken note of the man when he'd come looking for a place to stay.

Of all things, it was a similarity to Inoadar himself that had stood out in his mind. Certain inflections while speaking. Together they had determined that he spoke with a slight Vanthan leaning, as did Inoadar. That too, implied a possible Nykan origin.

Mr. Barton, Inoadar's contact in the business and trade sector, had confirmed that reports of a skull-masked man, asking about someone from Nyka, had reached his ears. There was some mention of "stolen goods", but that was a common enough cover story. But it was the ravosalamen that had ultimately raised the silent alarm. Collating rumors and relaying them to Inoadar, when they concerned him, was a service for which he paid a seasonal "gratuity".

This man had come, preparing the way for some associates that were joining him here to track down a mark. The man they were after had come from Nyka. They had been commissioned to settle with this man on behalf of those that had sent them. There seemed to be some confusion about the alleged name of the target. All indications were that the name was "Forus", but Inoadar couldn't help but wonder if someone listening in covertly had muddled the information. 'Had it been a misheard "For us"? Had the petching Nykans hired mercenaries this time?'

In any event, the man had now walked into The Spot, yet another location Inoadar frequented. Inoadar had naturally checked the job listings upon entry to see if there were any new items. He now returned to the board, noting the empty slot where the stranger had removed the card. He knew the barkeep, Bohir, would betray no information. But it only took a chime for him to recall that the card in question had involved a request for aid with some glyphing. 'Damn it! That most likely means he's some kind of wizard.'

Well, he decided to test the water. He moved to a table where he knew a couple of patrons. They were a little taken by surprise when he invited himself to their table, but his offer to buy them a round quickly took the edge off any hesitancy. The man in the mask was still waiting at the bar for job details when the tavern wench, Alice, started making her way towards them. Inoadar waved quickly, being sure to return to his original pose by the time the words "HEY, IT'S FOR US!" reached the ears of the masked man. Inoadar looked in Alice's direction, but his focus was on the masked man's reaction.

[Miro]

Miro felt quite accomplished in taking a job, and indeed it caused him a bit of a smirk. For a while he was attempting to remain detached from Ravok, but this was wearing away rather quickly. But until he had a firm grasp of the people and the city, he could not commit entirely. Things were going well, and he was actually feeling lucky for once. The longer he remained in the floating city, the more relaxed he grew. Of course, that would hardly mean that others would be as comfortable with him. He would still have to do some work in that regard, but a relationship with the city was growing. And with the completion of the job, his reputation would have a tag on it, 'Glypher'. It was a fine thing to be known for, and soon enough his hunting abilities too. He desperately wanted to be known as "Wizard Hunter Miro." Even better if the job was complete before Rayage had a chance to dig in.

Finding Forus though, it was so difficult. The man was reportedly quite resourceful. Would have to be to pull off what he did. Apparently somewhat of a potent Magesmith, and a damn good thief too. To be able to rip Sahova off and get away was admirable, to say the least. And apparently a Voider, Shielder, and Projectionist on top of it. What exactly that meant for capturing him was difficult to say, but enough of it was clear enough to know trouble was abound. He was a dangerous fellow, but a wizard still. The simplest way to subdue one was to rid them of their Djed. Leeching accomplished just that. And how sweet he would taste to the hands gripping his neck. It was at this time that a loud remark was made. It cam from somebody who was quite excited. "For Us", they said, or no wait, "FORUS". Forus was at the Spot? Good news for Miro, bad for everyone else. Seemed he had friends, and there was a lot of collateral damage that could be done. Best to keep it to a minimum, though his image hardly mattered with Forus in hand. It would be back to Sahova quickly after.

The wizard began to produced a pool of liquid Res as he looked around the room. He did not see anyone come in, and was not entirely sure who had said the words. His eyes darted about behind the mask, grey irises filled with envy for the one who had laid eyes on the Nuit target. The magical liquid substance filled his robe aqua, but remained hidden. In order to keep it hidden the production stopped. There was no sign of Forus, and no chance of identifying him. The Chained One began to skulk towards the exit, ready to cut off or pursue his target leaving. With luck the name would be said again, and this time Miro would be watching. Though he would admit, it was tempting to shake the place down. There was a good chance somebody would sell out the wizard if asked, but that would ruin the element of surprise. And if the lead was a bust, his reputation with it.

And, of course, there was the option ignored. Being swept up in what seemed to be a great bit of luck, Ender was completely forgotten. It was one of those days where the Irylid was caught up in taking in all of the new sights that he didn't speak. Both master and Familiar were quite quiet, and even ignoring one another. It was a rare happening, and one that could not be forced. Both could agree it was quite enjoyable, though Ender knew he had a duty. He knew that Miro was hunting for Forus, and it was simple enough to read him. His master had no idea who of the bunch had made the remark. The Darkfacer had been watching the entire room, and indeed the man who set his master off. Though it was obvious he did not address anyone, for his eyes were on the undead at the time. But by the time the reaction was to be had, he was back to acting nonchalant. Perhaps looking for reaction, or not, but it did seem he knew something. It was unlikely he was that excited about having drinks for the table.

"Miro, watch yourself, okay? I don't think Forus is here, but it seems someone knows you are looking for him. Perhaps he is connected to him, hired by him or a friend. I suppose if the man is a fool, he could have declared his own name to check those on his tail. He would definitely have to be confident in his own skills then, wouldn't he? Mr. Shady Guy over at the table there, with the two rather friendly looking guys getting fresh rounds. Dark hair, dark garb, green eyes, if you can see from here." The Reimancer drew his eyes to the man, who by now looked no more suspicious than any other in the room. Perhaps even less, considering the locale. "Yeah, I see him, I think. But he doesn't seem dangerous. Doesn't even seem interested. But if he knows something he shouldn't, who knows what he is capable of. I guess we will see how this plays out." Miro, as tactless as he was, just hovered near the exit. His unblinking eyes remained fixed on the man at the table. Eventually he would get some reaction. "Your move buddy."

[Inoadar]

There was no doubt about the man's reaction. He had caught his interest most assuredly. Inoadar still did not know the significance of the name 'Forus', but it did not matter. He knew that the man now knew that his inquiries had come to the attention of someone in the room. It was a matter of whether he was inclined to think that his target had deep enough connections that he was now in peril, or if he believed that someone had information for him, maybe a proposal of partnership.

An interesting strategy, and one that had worked before. He would make himself a part of the very team hunting him. He had undermined a bounty hunter's effort with this approach a good year ago. It had only been freak chance that had exposed his identity and forced him to fake his death. But if the masked man had his description, which was likely, he may have already marked him.

Well, in such a roomful, this was the best time to find out. He noted the passage of the man to the door, but took note of the absence of the ambiant sound effect and waft of air from the door being opened. He stood without looking in that direction and approached the bar, finishing his drink and holding it up before his face the way some will to confirm that it was empty. Really he was looking in its reflection. 'The man is just standing by the door, watching! No subtlety whatsoever!'

The reflection was far too distorted to tell if the masked man was looking right at him, but his face was certainly in the right position for it. He thought for a moment of alerting Bohir to the man's threatening demeanor. He dismissed this as counter productive. Even if Bohir DID tell the man to leave or behave or whatever, he would also think of Inoadar as a man who brought trouble to his establishment. This wouldn't do.

Alice walked by with a flirty smile. Inspiration struck him and he went after her, making as if to make a pass, but asking her to wait one more round, and then call to someone against the far wall by the name "Forrest". He left five gold mizas on her tray as she winked and made as if he was coming on too strong and pushed him away.

'Okay,' he thought to himself, '...time to trust to bold bluff and subterfuge.' two of his favorites. His drink arrived and he drank it down, timing it so that he would leave at exactly the right time to reach the door when Alice made her distraction.

'Now' he told himself. He set down the empty mug and started towards the door. He looked right at the masked man for the the first half of the distance, knowing he wouldn't really be able to tell. The man seemed to tense as he got closer. He was still ten feet from the door when Alice called out "FORREST!" with a wave at a group along the wall.

Everyone liked Alice, and everyone flirted with Alice, and no one was going to miss an opportunity to play along with Alice. Four arms shot up in answer to her wave as Inoadar reached the door, looking straight ahead as if in anticipation of no interruptions to his departure from The Spot.

[Miro]

Things got complicated in the Spot. The Forus yelling guy had moved around without giving any more sign that he had interest in Miro, and it was causing impatience. For a wizard, one who should hold the highest discipline, the Reimancer was terribly impatient. There was something about being able to cause such excitement with his power that gave him a rush to keep pushing onward. It seemed that the shady man was just going to stay around all day and drink, but then he got up. Heading for the exit, towards the undead, no less. An opportunity presented itself, or maybe it was more like a decision. What was one to do in a situation like this? Making a scene didn't seem the logical conclusion, but if Forus was in the place, leaving didn't either.

Just when the man was coming close enough that Miro's arm began to twitch, a woman called out. The server wench, wasn't she? "Forrest", she declared, and a group of hands shot up. Was this what the man had said before? Sounded like a name, sure enough, but not exactly. Were they all Forrest? It was a bit confusing that she would be calling out all of their shared names. The wizard had to conclude that "Forrest" was some Ravokian term. Perhaps a way to order drinks. It almost made sense too. The man declared the term, then was served drinks afterwards. It was tempting to wait and see if this panned out, if the men got their order, but his interest was invested in this dark figure. Ender was sure he was up to something, and warned his master to be on guard. Whatever the case, the man was about to brush by, and so close exiting the establishment.

There was no time to think of an excuse to stop him either. Miro was not as smooth as he might think, and people generally did not want to converse with him. Being approached by the guy with fangs, grey eyes, and a creepy mask would cause people to scream or attack. Besides all of that, if the guy was innocent, he had just been stared down by some ominous guy. All of it added up to dropping all thoughts of doing anything rash. So the man was allowed to pass, and the Reimancer looked away and thought with all of his might. He was going to follow the fellow out and approach him calmly. An excuse to do so was all he needed. Preferably one that explained why he was staring at him the way he did. But then a logical thought entered the pondering undead's mind. He wasn't the only person staring in the bar.

In fact, that very serving wench that declared "Forrest" had been getting a lot of looks too. She had been receiving all sorts of compliments and responding to them. One of the guys near enough to Miro had said how she had given him "that look". In fact the wizard had been given a look, and could very well have been responding by showing similar interest. The bar seemed full enough of that behavior that it made sense. And if he had interest in the dark haired man with green eyes, then definitely he would not let him slip away. So Miro walked out and hurried along to catch up. First he called out, "Wait, please," and stopped along side him. "I don't know if you saw me looking at you, but you gave me "that look". I thought you might have an interest in me, so I came after you to find out."

But then the wizard paused and grew terribly nervous. Yeah, it was a way to start the conversation, and a reason to stop him. However after that, wasn't Miro supposed to be interrogating him about Forus and the possibility of him knowing something. The undead hadn't though far enough ahead on how to transition, and at this point was speechless. He was reeling to find some way to follow up the statement and bring the conversation around, but nothing came to mind. He was stumped and left clueless. If still he had blood in his body, it would have shown itself in the form of a blushing face. Being careless was often a result of rushing, yet he never did learn. Ender however was laughing across their telepathic bond. "Are you attempting to seduce the enemy now? I knew you liked the men."

[Inoadar]

The man made no move to stop him, so Inoadar stepped outside and walked ten yards or so before he saw a streak of light herald the opening of the door behind him. No one had passed him going in so he had to assume someone had come out. He was relieved at first to hear footsteps. Had he heard none, his mind would have pictured a bowman taking aim at his back. But then he became just as alarmed when the footsteps took on a "hurried" sound.

He tweaked both feet to pop the blades out the front of his toes. It had recently occurred to him to put weapon tarnish on these blades, so hopefully, the four-inch lengths would go unnoticed. He also slipped his right hand into a knuckleduster. The plain dagger was visible on his belt, so he might just present the picture of someone with no idea that he needed to be wielding a weapon.

It was not an odd reaction to turn upon the sound of hurried feet approaching from behind, but this necessity was negated by the man calling out to him to wait. This was just about the last thing he expected, so naturally, it put him even more on guard. But he turned as requested and faced the man as he came up alongside.

"I don't know if you saw me looking at you, but you gave me "that look". I thought you might have an interest in me, so I came after you to find out." The man said, the seemingly friendly voice completely at odds with the frightful image he projected.

Inoadar was stymied. He imagined he was generating the same sort of twitchy uneasiness he was seeing in the man facing him. He didn't know how exactly to respond and the man in front of him didn't seem to know what else to ask. "Exactly what "look" are you referring to sir? I feel it fair to remind you that you are clad in some mighty eye-catching attire. Do you think this might be the cause of any "look" I might give you?"

Inoadar was truly confounded by the man's behavior. Now he seemed like some embarrassed schoolboy, about to kick at the dirt and say "golly" over and over. The thought of 'kicking' reminded him of his boots and he tried to covertly run the blades back up into their tips. He looked up to see the man look up from the same spot. Their eyes met and narrowed as one, they both tensed and took a balancing preparatory step back...and paused.

Inoadar spoke in a level voice, the kind a fighter recognizes as one used when you know you might need to spring into action in a heartbeat and don't want even so much as breathing to be at anything but optimum readiness. "You are the one following me, sir. I then ask you, what is your interest in me."

[Miro]

As awkward situations go, this one was quite unique. At least in the experience of the undead it was. Luckily things had driven away from the awkward topic and he could recover some lost ground. The way the man phrased his words, how he spoke, there was something about it. This guy was smooth, and he seemed careful. His answers seemed almost perfect. It was true that Miro was something to look at, and that he would admit. Thankfully it would negate his previous err in operation. "Oh yeah, I guess that is true. But I can't help it. This is my face, for you see, the mask doesn't come off." He maneuvered his Res to slink to the back of the cloak before he reached a hand down to his cloak. He then opened the fold to give a better view of the red and azure battle robe beneath. "And this here was a gift from a triad member in Alvadas for my service to the city. I never take it off." Some of the aqua colored Res was likely to be seen.

It was an odd thing to try and give some open and honest responses, but perhaps breaking the palpable tension. How and what to say were still a mystery however. Even if this guy knew something, it was highly unlikely the Reimancer would get anything out of him. Perhaps disengaging was the correct strategy. After the fact of the wizard following the man was pointed out, he realized would need to explain further. Explaining his interest openly would mean that if his initial suspicion was correct, and this man really was testing him, he would tip him off. Even as an innocent stranger, the Chained One did not need the man to tell the tale of a creepy masked man looking for some rogue wizard. Why was he not better in situations like these? There was only one answer to a delicate situation like this, one where he must be right, and that was Hypnotism. Luckily the magic made up for some of his social lackings.

Deciding to use Hypnotism was like a switch for the wizard. It gave him pleasure to influence the minds of others, and would often manifest in various ways. Certain speech patterns and mannerisms not previously shown, as well as a sly tone about him. Confidence in what he was saying, like an arrogance that said he could never be wrong. To buy himself a bit of time while he prepared the Djed in his voice, he gave a sigh. A hand clasped the forehead of the mask of many and he shook his head. He would start with what was most simple, an emotional response. This would set the mood, and the goal was to break the tension. Naturally he would push a feeling of calmness into the man's subconscious. "Well, you see, I am new to Ravok. It is a beautiful city, and of course, I don't mean any harm, but I have noticed it can be dangerous." He bought time to think ahead and to further the degree of conditioning with these meaningless words. "I, may have, well, I hadn't considered that I may come across as one of these types."

That would do it for the emotional tampering, and he knew what to follow up with. It was wise to weave in a suggestion, but such things required a set up. The Hypnotist hoped his previous babbling had eased the situation enough. "Really, you will have to forgive me. My name is Miro, and I have come in from Sahova on business." It was the truth, and a perfect set up. He gave a moment for the fact to sink in while he prepared a suggestion to be imparted with his next line. His lips cracked into a slight smirk. The suggestion, "He isn't interested in me", would be buried in the man's mind with his next phrasing. "I, ya know, I need all the help I can get. Trying to, you see, in finding a way to solve my problem. but, of course, have no idea where to look. I had a suspicion that you could help me with my business, but I fear my mind played a trick on me."

The wizard took a step back and gave a dismissive bow of his head. He brushed back his hair with his hand and let out another sigh before speaking again. "I suppose I was overly eager to hear good news, hoping that Lhex had done me a favor for once. I guess Ionu will never be done with his games though, will he? I have caused you some trouble, and all because I was naive and optimistic to find an easy way to resolve my own problems. Forgive me, please. I wasted your time, and likely startled you a bit too. How about this, I'll make it up to you. If you need a bit of help, come find me. Even if it is something minor, I would like to make things right. Next time we catch eyes in the Spot, drinks are on me." Things seemed quite hopeless however. At best he had gained knowledge of the term "Forrest". Good lot of use it would get, probably only in ordering drinks for this guy next time their awkward paths crossed. What he had wasted though, it definitely wasn't worth the gain.

[Inoadar]

Inoadar slowly relaxed. 'Could this have all been a mistake?' he thought in reflection. He reexamined the clues that had set him to this action. None of them were really conclusive. It was possible that this man was simply touring the city. "A beautiful city", as he had just said. And it was beautiful. Inoadar appreciated its perfection every time he left his room at Tarsin's, or his shop, to hit the winding walkways and brickwork alleys and bridges. Dark, polished wood and brass highlighted elaborate ornamentation cresting the roofs of grand structures throughout the seat of the Glory of Rhysol.

He started to smile as the stranger mentioned the danger. Here he was NOT fooled. This man was clearly capable of dealing with his share of danger. But he came off now as a kindred spirit, not a competitor or aggressor, well aware that the weak have no place in this city, save as slaves or whores. Then the mention of Sahova set his last doubt away. He knew somewhat of the trade routes. Anyone coming from Sahova would be routed through Nyka.

A higher level of trust than he would normally extend gave him to respond freely. "Aaah, well, you see, I make it my business to be aware of..."capable"...men, such as you obviously are, coming from Nyka. You would not be the first to bring trouble to my door from that shyke pit of a city. But you would hardly let me see you so openly if you had any interest in that."

He chuckled a bit, "Yes, this town can be dangerous for those unprepared for it. But as for how you "come across", you look quite prepared indeed!" Inoadar's mercenary bend came forth at the word 'business' though, and his eyes narrowed with thought of upcoming proposals.

"Look, I certainly appreciate the offer of drinks and all, but let me level with you. You mentioned your 'business', and your need of help? Well, when you caught my attention, I looked into your paths and contacts in the city and will confess to using them to flush you out just now. Does the name "Forus" figure into your business here in Ravok?"

Inoadar already knew it did, but he wanted to gauge the man's reaction.

[Miro]

Miro was curious, only spending a short time in Nyka. Why would one make it their business to look for capable men out of the city? The people there were quite different from any other city he had been in, sure, but even then, the wizard didn't seem the type. This guy was getting at something, and it was that the city had given him trouble. Or maybe it was he had given the city some trouble. Either way, there was something about him, something he wasn't showing. The relief about him seemed quite apparent though. Again, it was established that the Reimancer looked capable of handling his own, which was a good thing. If one was going to look crazy, might as well look dangerous too.

But then the man before him seemed to shift. There was something about his body language that seemed to startle the mood of their conversation. It made the undead feel as if he was being given a business proposal and told a secret at once. He came in close, excitement in his eyes, ready to hear it all. Seemed he was actually making a friend out of a strange situation too. And at first, it seemed even to be more than that. He would make an ally. Then the man finished what he had to say, and Miro was left dumbstruck. It truly took him by surprise, and he needed a moment to catch up. It sparked a silent debate of emotions inside of him. Either he would be amused an amazed, or angered and ashamed. He was tricked and made a fool, practically lied to. One thing was certain though, this man knew the name Forus. The hunt for information was back on.

A booming voice entered his head, one that had waited long to find the perfect moment to strike. The etching of corruption from within the blackened arm of Miro. It had found its medium and knew the time was right. So often in the past, it had found a simple fact to hold true in its efforts. To manipulate its host, precision was key. One well timed, well prepared suggestion, it would always beat out a barrage. When the dark voice became commonplace, it was so easy to tune it out. However, due to the established relationship, it had grown to be somewhat of an adviser. Being silent for so long, its message would hold depth. Miro would hear it out. "Miro, remember why you are here, at the Spot, in Ravok. It is not to make allies, but to find Forus. If he knows something, then you have even more reason to distance yourself from him emotionally. His only value is as a tool. Never forget, that is what everything around you is, even myself."

The Chained One buffered the silence given by looking off for a moment, as if contemplating revealing his objective. In his mind however, the ramblings were not finished "By any means necessary, get what you need. He has already deceived you, deceived the Ice, even me, though I knew I ought to say something. Trust is something you can not afford to give this man. Let him think he has it though, that you are letting him in, and that you are friendly. Do this on the surface, but beneath it, keep the waters murky. Hypnotize him into obedience, manipulate his heart and mind, and turn him into the first of many tools. Above all else, find Forus! You can not even afford the smallest, most brief, insignificant act of mercy." The wizard grasped his mask in his hands and then returned back to the conversation with a sigh. "I really can't believe it, you tricked me. Nobody tricks me. Nobody!"

Miro kept his tone serious and seemingly brutal, but only until it was broken with a laugh. "That was a good one, really. I knew you said Forus in there, and I knew you were looking at me. Yet somehow, you still sold it. The name definitely means something to me. It is my business, ya know? I am here to find Forus, a rogue wizard." He looked around for a moment, making sure nobody was within hearing range, and then leaned in a little closer. "He stole from Sahova, and if you know something about him, I need to know. It is my job to find him, though only a proud fool would refuse to change his name. All I know, the man is a Nuit. That, I can see you are not." The wizard backed away to give a bit of space. "You know, I would be extremely grateful if you would help me. I myself am a powerful wizard." Miro turned back and gave a gnarly grin. "What do you say, can you help me out?"

[Inoadar]

It took longer for the man to respond than it should have. 'If he didn't want to reveal anything about himself, he wouldn't have made the effort to catch up to me. Yet now, an almost rhetorical question is met by a long silence.' Inoadar's thoughts then pondered the odd gesture of grasping the mask, something he had already stated "doesn't come off".

The masked man, who'd named himself 'Miro', 'probably a phony name, if he has any sense,' seemed curiously preoccupied, only to come out of it with an oddly pointless reference to the fact that he'd been taken in by Inoadar's ruse. Inoadar knew perfectly well that his ruse had worked to some extent without needing to be told.

He had already judged the man to be a wizard of some sort, and then he confirmed it with his own words, "I myself am a powerful wizard". This brought his strange pause into a new light. 'He must be a summoner, listening to something his familiar is telling him.' He felt the man's behavior to be out-of-character for a powerful wizard. They were usually so secretive and arrogant. It seemed likely that if he WAS listening to some arcane source, it must be telling him to win the poisoner's trust by being friendly and ready with information, in hopes the other will reciprocate.

'Okay, I can play that part' Inoadar decided. "Oh yes, I'm certain that I can help. But understand, I was only searching out who was coming into town from Nyka. All I got was that they were looking for "Forus", I was not looking for him, I was looking for those that were. That's why I found you. Now I have no problem with redirecting my focus at him. What can you tell me about him?"

Inoadar put his hand up to forestall the anticipated response. "Please, Miro, if you are going to repeat that all you know is that the man is a Nuit, Then I have to say, with all due respect, that your contractor must be very inexperienced in the business of tracking a wizard. I myself have very little personal experience in it, but even others' accounts, that I've only heard of, tell me that you hire someone who knows exactly what disciplines the man employs, what his weaknesses and tendencies are, what his likes and dislikes are, any known associates. Basically anything and everything that is known. Otherwise, you are a sitting duck for a magic ambush."

"Even as a basis of what he will avoid, it is useful to know these things. If we know him to be arrogant, then there is a strong likelihood that he will not alter his habits. If he is crafty, he will do the opposite. Does he know water magic? If so, he may be hiding in the lake itself. Does he know you? Personally? If he sees you in town, will he know the gig is up? In which case we can trap him at the ferry when he tries to leave town. Will he try to come after you? In which case you can be the bait for a trap. Or I could dress up like you and be the bait, and you could take him out. There are a number of approaches we can take, but not if we don't know anything about him."

[Miro]

"We needn't anything this man has to sell. One instance of trickery is enough. Even worse when it is successful. I should have said more, discouraged this from the start. Listen to what he is saying Miro, just listen. Something isn't adding up. He was searching out those coming from Nyka, and heard that they were looking for Forus. He makes it sound as if there were others coming from Nyka with that same goal. The thing is, there are, but there is no way for him to have gotten this information. And how just with that bit of information he found you, that is also interesting. Perhaps it is not the coming from Nyka bit as much as the Forus bit that he is interested in. Redirecting his focus he says. As if I believe that. He seems the type to have his sights set ahead of time. That is hardly the worst of it though."

Miro had to work on stalling again, which was nothing new, but quickly growing tired. "Well, if you'll forgive me, I need to consider some things. What you say does make sense, and I am trying to devise some plan of my own. Based on what I know at least. You seem to have a mind for catching prey, and a grasp on tact as well." Ender hadn't even hesitated long enough for his master to start speaking before finishing his thoughts. "It is obvious to me he is prying you apart. His questions, all he is looking for, it is dangerous to give away. It would give some slight amount of insight to catching the man, but could be as easily used to inform Forus of the information his hunters have on him. If he is working with the guy, then any plan would be a trap. Figure out a way to solve this. And be careful."

It was a good enough suggestion, but he liked the former better. A combination of both sets of advice was likely best. Though it was only that, advice. He had only paused for a matter of several ticks before continuing on in a previously unshown reserved voice. His every word held a tinge of hesitation, as if there were slight regret in what he had to say. "I don't even know your name, and yet you already use mine so freely. I am not the most knowledgeable on my target, but I do know some things. I will however say that it matters little, and if you want to help, you will have to be satisfied with being blind. Even then, are you still willing to help? Really and truly, are you willing to help me, despite risk. Know it will not come easy, and dedication is a requirement. I will leave this city with Forus, with or without your help. However, I am not saying I won't compensate you, but the way a man like me works, it may not be conventional. You may find yourself only realizing its value after it has changed your fate."

The wizard would not continue until an answer was given. There were so many things he wished to know, yet knew they were out of reach, at least for now. Though that didn't mean he was unable to gain anything here and now. If the man was sold, and even if he wasn't, Miro had more to say. His tone had lost its shakiness, now replaced with cold indifference. "As I said, he is a Nuit, a Sahovan researcher who served for long under the name Forus. He stole something from Sahova, something important enough for me to be sent after it. Let us call it an artifact. Along with that, he stole materials for Magecrafting, which is his primary discipline. Though expect him to know much about magic. How proficient and exactly what disciplines, that is unknown. All that has been reported, he is skilled, and very dangerous. That is why they sent the best." Miro walked past the shady man in black to head towards the narrow street. His face was stern and scowled, and his dull grey eyes were ripe with occupation.

The undead Reimancer waved to the man, either to follow or to part ways. Before he would get too far away, he would finish up what he had on his mind. His voice was now powerful, a confidence that was not so much arrogant, but more so commanding. Every syllable was pronounced with conviction. "That is all I know, and all I need to know. He won't recognize me, and he can't beat me in a fight. Ambush or not, I don't lose, not to mortals. And I won't stop until I have quarry in hand. If you really are interested, then you should take a ride with me. I have a housing unit, and we can discuss our business. Everything from tactics to compensation, we can spell it all out. The plan I have is to gather information. Basically, to form a list, ya know? In the city, I find Nuit, and I find wizards. Take what I know, check it against the list, then cross off names." A fanged grin was shown, though facing now away from his talking partner. The Chained One felt a tinge of ecstasy through the essence of his dried flesh.