The stench was enough to unsettle the stomach.
When the storm hit Zaichaer, the life that Barbatos knew was wiped away forever. In its place was a journey northward to the city of Kalzasi. Despite being a literal refugee, he did not spend time lamenting what was. Though the wounds upon his heart were great, the necessities of now were greater. And, though he would never admit as much out loud, keeping himself focused on the present helped avoid the sorrow. Thus, from shortly after settling inside the city, Barbatos put his ear to the ground and sought out opportunities.
Thus far? He struck gold. Consistent employment came through the House of Colors, specifically Yellow. In light of current events, they saw fit to offer opportunities to outside help - and the Sellsword leapt at the chance. To date, they made great usage of his skills in combat. He had been directed to serve as a protector at some points and an escort at others. Each mission had its own web of difficulties, but the Sellsword had thus far failed to disappoint.
Beyond this...he was no longer alone. His time within the city brought his path across another. She was woman of (self-proclaimed) weird repute. During their first meeting, an accord was formed that would see the Sellsword instruct her in defending herself. In exchange, he would have a belly of warm food and a glimpse into his future after each lesson. Though seemingly transactional at first, the Sellsword admittedly had taken a liking to the knife-eared woman. So much so that, when their respective roles would take them to the safe part of Kalzasi, he offered to accompany her.
From what he knew of her goals for the day, there was a client who sought a glimpse into their own future. As fate would have it, said client was Barbatos' final destination. But where were they headed? Into the literal underbelly of the city. During the weeks that Barbatos spent within Kalzasi, he had heard that this section of the city was dangerous. The law did not extend into the subterranean levels. And monstrosities lurked deeper into the black. This was anothe reason that Barbatos was grateful that he and Faelora were going together. It wouldn't sit right with him to watch her walk into pit alone. He knew that men could become animals when the law turned its eye - plus there were actual animals to worry about too.
So it was that the duo, together, braved the darkness. Dusk had come to Kalzasi when they began their journey - for discretion was necessary for Barbatos' task. And, outside of the putrid smell tinging every breath, the journey to the shantytown called Hahseu was unremarkable. Upon nearing the entrance, Barbatos silently motioned for Faelora to pause her steps.
"I know I've said this before, but, keep your wits about you. This place...we're slabs of meat wandering into a hound's den. If anything looks out of place, you tell me. We leave. Alright?"
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