Round 36 Transcript

The abandoned church alley stretches ahead, narrow and shadowed, offering a rare moment of privacy. Jeane's breath comes in ragged gasps against your shoulder, her fingers still tangled in your shirt. Ahead, the party can see movement—Clarice is emerging from her apartment building, heading toward you with obvious purpose. The sounds of city life filter through the narrow space: distant sirens, voices, the rumble of traffic. This isn't a safe space anymore.

I catch her arm before she can leave. "Not so fast." My voice is low, almost casual, but there's an edge that makes it clear I'm serious.

Julia freezes, turning back slowly. Her face shows confusion first—why would a stranger stop her? Then suspicion creeps in. She glances around the alley like she's checking for backup or escape routes. Smart girl has survival instincts at least.

I don't loosen my grip. "We should talk. Somewhere more private." I nod toward the church entrance behind us. The music from inside is loud enough to cover most sounds out here, and the shadows are deep even with streetlights. Perfect for a conversation that doesn't need witnesses.

Julia's eyes narrow. "What makes you think I want to talk to you?" She tries to pull away, but I hold firm without hurting her—just enough pressure to make it clear she won't get free unless I let go. Basic restraint technique.

I don't smile, though I feel something like amusement. "Because deep down, you're curious why a stranger would care enough to stop you in an alley at night." I lean closer so she has to meet my eyes. "Unless you're completely uninterested in... new experiences?"

Her pupils dilate just slightly. Bingo.

Jeane's crimson eyes narrow in the dark alley, studying the nearby house and the figures within. Clarice's lights are on — she's awake. Good. But this location is far too exposed for what we need to do. The alley offers scant cover, and any noise... She trails off, her expression calculating. We cannot simply burst in and take what we want, not here.

Her voice takes on a dangerous edge. The authorities would be upon us within minutes if we were to... entertain ourselves... out in the open like this. No, we need privacy, control. Her wings shift restlessly behind her. Perhaps a more subtle approach is required. Lure her out under some pretense, or find a way inside quietly. The cult must expand, yes, but not at the cost of our freedom.

Jeane's hand drifts to her hip instinctively, where tools and potions would normally hang — now mostly depleted. We are running low on supplies as well. This won't be as simple as seducing a barmaid in broad daylight. Her lips curl into something between a smirk and a snarl. But then again, nothing truly worthwhile ever is, hmm?