Band of Mercenaries.

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	The last few days had borne no fruit in their hunt of Zulera. Despite his men’s extensive efforts; the Avatar was unable to be continuously tracked. This frustrated efforts of coordination. Much like their assault a week ago on the tram; they could only spring in to action with no planning. This was only attempted twice before the effort was deemed just a waste. Both attempts she'd simply vanished from the area before they arrived. Kazma's spies suspected she Earthbended to safety when she noticed or feared of being followed. She was cunning and brilliant; and he knew this would be a task more difficult than any to accomplish. In the Hundred Years War the Fire Nation pursued Aang with the resources of a whole nation. And he was just a twelve year old boy, well; the timeline not including. But they failed and were bested. Zulera had more than 18 years on him and much, much more training. He had all the disadvantages according to history. History is said to repeat to those who don't learn from it. But it could repeat anyways; life was a cruel mistress. Kazma was going to do one thing at least. It was time to stop hunting so much. Fishing would be much more relaxing. He just needed the right bait and lure. Kazma lifted his cup and took a small sip of tea. Savoring the flavor; wanting to enjoy the best the city had to offer. He glanced to his left. This teahouse was quite old. The same name, just different owners now. If he was right they hadn't even rearranged the tables. That would mean in a past life, right there. Kazma smirked. Sunlight blinded his eyes as he stepped out into the breezy terrace. His shirt was tugged at by the breeze. No armor today, not even his sword. "I need a vacation after this".
Mood: Curious Condition: Perfectly Healthy	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Fri Nov 15, 2013 11:12 pm

Zulera Joanna Tallarico	One of the advantages Zulera had on society was that people often tried comparing her to Zurok, her mother. Certainly, the two had many things in common, but even with their alluring appearances, electric eyes, soothing voices, and devious behavior, Zurok and Zulera were very different. Zurok was a planner. She calculated almost every possible outcome, and a solution to it. This had worked well for her over the last 51 years she had been alive, and continued to work to her advantage. Zulera, on the other hand, was a doer. She went into everything making things up as she went, reacting and planning only when necessary. This chaotic spirit within her was what made her hard to track, difficult to predict and nearly impossible to follow or understand. If anything, Zurok was a misguiding force, for people saw the similarities between her and her daughter, and suddenly and automatically assumed that she was like Zurok. Whatever the case, Zulera's trickery seemed to have kept her elusive and safe for the last many years now, and even much moreso more recently than that. She had disappeared from Ba Sing Se... or perhaps gotten lost there. After all... one did not come to Ba Sing Se to be found. One went to Ba Sing Se to disappear...
Mood: Happy Condition: Perfect	Link: Zulera

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Fri Nov 15, 2013 11:55 pm

Marian Sandega Shanza	Ba Sing Se was a city of crime, a city of legends, a city of politics, and a city of walls and secrets. It was secrets like this that brought Marian Sandega Shanza to the place. If not for that allure, the allure of meeting interesting characters abounded here, as well as intrigue, secrets, and underground empires. Shanza wanted in. She was surprised to see the Avatar on a few Wanted posters, although she was not sure how official these were or were not. this "Zulera" certainly had a memorable grin, if the artists were any accurate. Then again, the demonic red eyes and razor sharp teeth kind of made Marian think they were embellishing a little. Granted, she'd have done the same thing, so she couldn't complain a whole lot. She roamed the streets without much other thought, and trying to control the headache she had, while reading this recruitment poster of hers. Something about a Black Fang and the Avatar and money and... well, something. but her head hurt. Right as she passed in front of this tea shop, she shook her head with a sigh and a groan. that headache of hers was becoming too much, and reading was not helping.
Mood: So-So Condition: Headaching	Link: Shanza

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	Kazma watched a young woman walk down the street. As she passed the tea shop he had just left, Kazma noted her body signs gave off the sense she was unwell. The least Kazma could do for her was to check to see if she was alright. He mad a quick descent down the terrace stairs and made hast after her. Shanza had Fire Nation clothing yet her skin seemed like that of a Water Tribe citizen. It was odd that someone would be dressed like that with her ancestry. Then again she could be of a mixed blood, which would answer that quite well. Kazma's longer legs allowed him to close the distance swiftly. Now about parallel to her he saw the poster she was reading. "Madam I couldn't help but note you look to be unwell. Would there be anything I could do presently"?
Mood: Helpful Condition: Well	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Sat Nov 16, 2013 4:33 pm

Marian Sandega Shanza	Shanza pocketed her poster simply to free her hand, and clutched her forehead. It wasn't the first time someone asked her about her headaches, although, it was one of the few times someone offered to help. she leaned against the nearby building, clutching her forehead, shaking it. "No... I... I think I just need to sit down." resting always helped. sometimes a scalp massage also worked, but she couldn't exactly go around asking for one of those. she didn't really feel like explaining herself or her situation, or how she'd occasionally get dragged into the spirit world over stuff like this. It was not about to happen this time though--thankfully. "I... why do you ask?" she looked curious, wondering what inspired him to want to help her.
Mood: So-So Condition: Headaching	Link: Shanza

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	Shanza had placed her hand over her forehead. Kazma nearly jolted forward thinking she was going to faint. That wasn't the case though. He didn't want her to do so, only a wall supporting her it seemed. Clenching a fist and bending his wrist upwards; a stone chair formed out of the ground beneath her. Solid yet comfortable as stone could afford. Kazma's bending mastery allowed this task to be performed with ease and precision. He leant his hand to her. Guiding her downwards to the seat; he had decided to take her words for request. Kazma knelt down so his height would not pose a problem with communication. For the first time he set sight upon the whole of her face. Her forehead and chin painstakingly tattooed in the Water Tribe style. He knew few who would have their faces done. Then again he had never been to the Northern or Southern Water Tribes. His experiences being limited tothe other three nations. Only those who felt the need to leave their tundra'd homes gave witness to their customs. Her sky blue eyes stood apart from her darker skin tone. They probably spoke for her mysterious nature. Mayhaps it was only an observation of an Earthbender though. "There are those who would call me the chivalrous type. Though others say chivalry died in the Hundreds Year War. I have my own code I act by. And you walking by; I didn't think things seemed right. May I ask what ill befalls you"? Kazma shifted his hand to the edge of the chairs armrest. A small gesture.
Mood: Caring Condition: Awaiting	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Sat Nov 16, 2013 11:23 pm

Marian Sandega Shanza	Still dizzy, Shanza felt herself being guided to sit down, which she did. she leaned her back against the back of the chair, setting her hands on her knees, which poked out from her skirt before they met her boots.She was surprised that someone would go this far out of their way to help her... but perhaps chivalry wasn't dead after all. She glanced at his face as he lowered himself to her height, catching a glimpse of the man's face, but otherwise leaning back to calm herself down. "Ill... it's just a headache... well, a recurring headache, but I'm kind of used to it." it wasn't consistent, but every 3-7 days or so, it'd strike. sometimes more, sometimes less. it depended on a lot of things, Marian felt. "I'm Shanza by the way." she offered her hand from the chair she sat in, figuring she could at least make that social pleasantry. "thank you for your assistance." she wasn't better yet by any means, but she didn't feel like she had to wait for herself to be such for her to thank the man.
Mood: So-So Condition: Headaching	Link: Shanza

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	Kazma kept up his role. "Kazma. It is my pleasure to provide such assistance to you". He grasped her offered hand and gave a light kiss to her upper fingers. Her hand was returned promptly. "A constantly reoccurring headache. Thats a new one by me". Her condition would, maybe; not be so rare. Plenty of people got headaches and surely some would have one constantly. That was just an assumption though. His words were true at least, not that he'd tell a lie to the poor girl. It seemed at least she wouldn't be getting worse at the moment. Kazma raised himself up to full height. Sitting on his knee was an uncomfortable position for a man his age. "If you'll return the favor though, I'd like to see that poster you stuffed in your pocket".
Mood: Curious Condition: Stiff	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Sun Nov 17, 2013 7:29 pm

Marian Sandega Shanza	She was just slightly taken aback from surprise when her hand was kissed, but she did not seem offended by it. Hardly; in fact if anything, she looked flattered, but the blush was hard to see under her cheeks. She was just used to much less... "formal" interactions. "it's complicated," she explained, "thank the Avatar it ain't consistent." perhaps she would have said thank the spirits, if not that she felt it was somehow their fault. It wasn't something she thought too much about though. "poster?" she looked confused for a split second, "oh... this? sure. there's a ton of 'em around town, I reckon." she rug into her pocket and pulled out the poster. it was slightly crumpled, but still very readable. After ensuring that he took it, she leaned back against the chair again, closing her eyes for a moment.
Mood: So-So Condition: Headaching	Link: Shanza

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	Shanza handed over the paper to him. Kazma flattened it out a bit more so it would be as legible as could be. A few chuckles escaped him. A child must of drawn this. If Shanza was correct that they were everywhere, it certainly would be children. The Fang were a bit more professional then this; though the sharp teeth were a nice touch. Their own posters were in the squares, markets and gathering places of the city. They had more... realistic images of the Avatar on them. They also didn't recruit through posters. Rather silly the whole thing. Kazma looked downwards towards the woman. Here eyes were closed. Maybe a bit naive to of taken this poster if she was serious. But it seemed to far out that she was. More like she tore it from a wall to have a laugh with friends about it. It would not hurt for him to prod though. Kazma began ruffling and folding lines into the poster. "So tell me Shanza. Do you think you have the skills and conditioning to make it in some mercenary organization. You seem more one not to stray from the manor". His fingers continued to work the paper as he spoke. Focusing more on the handiwork than her.
Mood: Inquisitive Condition: Busy	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Sun Nov 17, 2013 8:28 pm

Marian Sandega Shanza	the poster had indeed just been for amusement purposes. she hadn't taken it seriously, because she frankly didn't have anything against the Avatar anyways. They had hardly met, and all she had heard about her was that she was rather good-looking and that she had a very charming voice and rather pleasant personality. Briefly, the thought of how much she'd charge for a go, crossed Marian's mind, but she had shrugged it off. "Mercenary organization?" she raised an eyebrow before going back to closing her eyes, "maybe. I'm not exactly known for being a woman of commitment, but I can get the job done when enough coins flow." That was how she ran her spy network anyways. There was a reason coins also flowed when she opened her mouth and shut it. "why do you ask?"
Mood: So-So Condition: Headaching	Link: Shanza

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	Kazma finished fiddling with the paper. He'd shaped it into a primitive glider of sorts. Very reminiscent of an Airbenders kite staff. "I ask because of this". Kazma raised the glider high above his head. A good breeze was blowing and he let it take wing. It toppled, dove and rolled; but at least it didn't crash. His paper creation blew off into the distance and he redirected his full attention back to Shanza. "You didn't exactly take this dude to the funny drawing on it. I'm sure you know the name The Black Fang. And you didn't hold the secret just now that you are someone of skill. That I've come to the conclusion of". Kazma paced a little ways in the opposite direction he had chased her down from. Since the winds blew from this direction he could not smell the tea house. He felt like another cup and maybe he would invite her back if willing. Kazma turned on his heel to face her. "Do you have some interest in the Avatar maybe"?
Mood: Tense Condition: Battle Ready	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Mon Nov 18, 2013 7:11 pm

Marian Sandega Shanza	Shanza shrugged. "I've heard of 'em..." she replied, "just another nameless band of mercen'ries... much like the Red Irons, or the Flint Company." Sure she had mercenary skills, but she was not the type to commit herself to any particular group. This had caused her trouble in the past, but she eluded most of them quite well. "The Avatar?" she raised an eyebrow, "I am interested in her spiritual connection more than anything. Otherwise she's little more than another rogue. Why do you ask?" Maybe it was her headache, but Shanza didn't really see where this was going, although she was fine with answering questions. Shanza was a frank and rather blunt, honest woman. She didn't really have much to hide, and was always willing to speak her mind, even if it meant trouble.
Mood: So-So Condition: Headaching	Link: Shanza

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	"It is interesting to hear what people think of those I am contracted to kill. That is all". Kazma fanned his fingers out and adjusted his hair. Its length got in the way without his head guard on. "So you are interested in her spiritual connection? It seems everyone is. Yet the trouble is not exactly in seeking her; but obtaining what you want. She is shrewd in who she will help, and won't unless something is in it for her". Kazma moved back to face the woman in the chair he made for her. "I though, am easier to deal with. You may have the skills I need, but thats to be discussed if you wish. And compensation of course". Kazma stood as still as stone awaiting for her reply. It was a serious offer of negotiation. He needed more people; skilled people. Ba Sing Se was a very large city, and one can't march an army through it.
Mood: Serious Condition: Sturdy	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Mon Nov 18, 2013 10:37 pm

Marian Sandega Shanza	"I see." Shanza nodded calmly. "but I suppose that when you have such abilities, it is only fair to want to capitalize off of them, yes? Men and women from all walks sell their combat skills to the highest bidder.... I can see where she's coming from." Now it seemed that it was a matter of figuring out what interested Zulera. Was it money, services, or perhaps something else? No one was ever really sure what the Avatar liked. Shanza wished to find out eventually. "well then... let's discuss." she replied, "and I apologize in advance for any gestures or expressions... I'm still quite dizzy." She was a woman of business, although did not mind mixing business and pleasure. her dedication was pretty solid--at least up until the risks outweighed the benefits. Otherwise, she didn't really have any loyalties. She made friends and numerous enemies this way, but she was quite fine with how she lived.
Mood: So-So Condition: Headaching	Link: Shanza

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	"Everyone has their own reasons for picking up a blade or using their natural abilities. Some less noble than others. This Avatar is very polar in comparison with Aang. She does things for herself. Only for herself it seems. And some who I know are carrying a hefty purse and I'd bet heft a lot of pull; see her as too great a danger for the position she has". Kazma let a heavy sigh depart him. In a better world Zulera would be more like her past lives. Why it seemed she'd strayed from the honorable paths they had created. Well, one can only ponder; but no answer would ever be forthcoming. She was who she was. "Ahh now I can't have you discussing business in discomfort. Nor do I wish to do so myself. Kazma leant forward and offered his hand. "I shall escort you home if you would like. And we may talk there; or if you wish, I have somewhere where we may go".
Mood: Gentlemanly Condition: Classy Battle Ready	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Wed Nov 20, 2013 6:57 pm

Marian Sandega Shanza	"only for herself?" Shanza raised an eyebrow, "surely you don't actually mean that simply because she chose not to help you." there was no one in the world, not even Shanza, who never did at least something for someone else. She was always one to speak her mind and this was the assumption she had come to. whether accurate or not, she had said it and was not one to take back her words either. admittedly she was skeptical about what sort of beef someone would have with the Avatar. If Marian's tale was anything to go by, then it seemed that if nothing else, this mysterious woman just wanted to be left to her own devices instead of saving kittens from trees or something. Had Zulera committed a crime that she didn't know about? It was quite likely, but Shanza didn't know, and frankly didn't care till it reached her front door. she took his hand, now wishing to find out more. "Lead on." she shrugged. She didn't really have a home here; just a suite at one of the taverns, and while it was cozy and livable, it was not really accommodating for guests unless they were more of the intimate nature.
Mood: Skeptical Condition: Headaching	Link: Shanza

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	Kazma lead his prospect naught to the inn she described. It was to cramped and many ears strewn about would be most unwelcome. Rather he walked her to a fair sized house in the mid district. One of the Fangs quarter houses. There were in fact two, one west and this being the eastern quarters. They had their HQ centrally located to facilitate ease of movement and communication. Kazma slipped off his shoes and released her arm. He pulled back some of the blinds to allow more light to flow in. No need to keep everything dark and moody. "Before we get to business would you care for any tea or cakes. Negotiations may take a good length of time depending"? Kazma left Shanza in the main room of the house; he slipping back into the kitchen area. The room was well kept, a table occupied the space on the right. Several bed rolls were lined in the far corner. Nothing like weaponry and junk laid about. They ran a tight organization.
Mood: Calm Condition: Healthy but thirsty	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Mon Nov 25, 2013 11:58 am

Marian Sandega Shanza	Shanza followed without much question, for she did not suspect it was a trap. Besides, she'd be a rather poor mercenary if she was not able to defend herself. Once in the place in question, Shanza sat down, not joining Kazma in the removal of her shoes. when the offer of something to eat was made, she did nod, however. "tea would be nice, please." she requested. it seemed to be pretty good at curng her headaches unless it was crappy tea or something. It was good to see that this place was not some little shoddy place with a lack of organization, but Shanza had no comment about it. as Kazma disappeared into the next room, Shanza leaned back, closing her eyes just to relieve a little fo her headache. it seemed to be relenting at long last, but she didn't want to take too many chances on it just yet. Maybe after the tea, anyways...
Mood: Calm Condition: Headaching	Link: Shanza

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	Of course her request was indeed met, but it took time to build a fire up and boil the water. Kazma set the teapot onto a wooden tray along with two shallow cups. More like bowls really, but their purpose was for tea not food. Unless no one did any dishes. A plate of various goodies and confections was also produced. Kazma didn't want to keep his guest waiting any longer. He grabbed the tray with both hands and shuffled back to the front of the house. He noted she had her eyes closed again, she must still have her headache. "The tea is ready'. Kazma set down the tray in the middle of the table. The tea was quickly poured and set gingerly in front of her to avoid spilling any. "This is a Yunnan Red tea. You can tell by the color the quality of the ingredients. I hope it will be satisfactory". Kazma poured his own and set everything, including himself down. "Now we may talk business Miss Shanza. Is there anything you wish to ask before we do"?
Mood: Good Condition: Relaxed but serious	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Mon Nov 25, 2013 7:57 pm

Marian Sandega Shanza	Shanza was patient, albeit a bit quiet, as the tea was preparing. She did not say anything, and instead relaxed her mind until the tea was ready. "thank you." she nodded politely as she took a sip of tea. She identified it as the type that Kazma said it was, and was was content in knowing that her mental guess had been correct. she took a sip of it and it seemed to relax her. it was not a magic cure-all for her headache, but it felt nice at the very least. "thank you again." she nodded sincerely. "I suppose my only question at this point would be a curiosity as to what good a headaching woman can be for you? Sure I might have said I'm a mercenary, but at the same time, there are many who can talk the talk without ever walking the walk. What was it about me then?" she sounded curious more than anything, incidentally.
Mood: Curious Condition: Tired	Link: Shanza

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	Kazma watched for a moment as she drank the tea. A nod met her gratitude and he took a sip of his own tea. It was about as good as it had been three or four days ago when he last savored the taste. The Jasmine Dragon certainly had the upper hand on his skills though. It was rather terrible in comparison to this afternoon. Maybe he should peruse a life of making tea. At least that way he could always have the best cup every time. "Well Shanza". Kazma swished his cup once around so the tea would spin slightly. Amused he set it down on the table. "You may talk the talk, but it is unproven if you can walk the walk. That would imply though I'd have you doing what you think you would. I don't though. If you can follow the plan you won't need to grip a blade". Kazma smiled slightly before reaching back for the tea. "So do you think you can talk the talk Shanza"?
Mood: Questionative Condition: Serious	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Tue Nov 26, 2013 1:32 am

Marian Sandega Shanza	While she was in fact something of a connoisseur of tea, as well as a few other things, she did not have a particular preference, and so this Yunnan Red Tea worked just fine for her. She was not exactly picky. "I walk walks and talk talks." she retorted. On the combat-related side, she was a fighter; a brawler. the physique hidden under that skirt and shirtsleeves would clearly show that if they were ever removed. "walking the walk is a bit harder to prove, as that would require me to get up, but talking the talk... I can prove that anywhere and everywhere." Shanza was known for specializing in two things--killing and bullshit. A storyteller at heart, Shanza was nicknamed "The Mischief Broker" by a handful of people who knew her. She had connections; a spy network, if you would, although she herself was not afraid to get in on the action itself. it was a risky and lucrative business, and it kept Marian in it. "so tell me. what exactly did you suppose you had in mind?"
Mood: Curious Condition: Tired	Link: Shanza

Junior Member Posts : 26 EXP : 750 Join date : 2013-10-06

Kazma Ikezawa	Kazma with tea passing down his throat listened to Shanza's words. "Well". Kazma set down his tea cup. He cleared out the back of his throat. "Normally we don't involve third parties in our point of a lance line of work. But circumstances and logistics have forced our hand. Ba Sing Se is a vast city and staying out of certain peoples gaze does not afford us the ability to preform standard operations. This is why we need you. You are like an unknown piece on the board". Perhaps he was getting a bit to philosophical now. He needed to just get to the point of which he could reveal. "To keep it simple you will find the Avatar and bring her to us. Then we do our thing. This is what I can say without a signed contract on the matter". Kazma folded his hands together. "Think you could do that Miss Shanza"? Kazma smirked slyly.
Mood: Daring Condition: Rested	Link:

Subject: Re: Band of Mercenaries. Wed Nov 27, 2013 11:01 pm

Marian Sandega Shanza	Shanza nodded. "I'm sure my boys can probably sniff her out." she indicated, knowing the abilities of her spy ring. At the same time, while Shanza knew some things about the Avatar, she did not know the woman personally. She did know enough from her network to know that there was no real pattern to Zulera's movements, so predicting her was much more luck-based, but still doable. "finding the Avatar is no easy task." she replied, "it's a difficult task that'll cost ya... although I have to ask... mostly for my sake... what do you need her for?" Zulera did not seem like an easy woman to convince, and Shanza was smart enough to know at least that much. Dealing with her was a high-risk business, and Shanza's main concern was to ensure that she would get a high return if she was going to put so much time and resources into this effort.
Mood: Curious Condition: Tired	Link: Shanza

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