Alistair Heartstone.

He/It.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Welcome To Closeknit, Got Any Questions? I'm Sure One Of Our Lovely Members Can Assist You, And We Hope You Enjoy Your Stay!

Welcome to Alistair's blog, a 'willing' member of Closeknit! Do you have any questions for him? Go ahead and ask it!

Wonder why he's there? It probably won't tell you, but he's got a sibling :)

[silent-and-deadly]

You have (1) new message from: Alistair

🪻 Alistair: Yvonne is gone.

Allan: Oh shit. Allan: I can start searching for them if you give me a quick description.

[the-wilting-flowers]

🪻 Alistair: She has Auburn hair, its black underneath, she has gray eyes but if someone gets close enough they have purple in them.

🪻 Alistair: They managed to escape, but they were injured, they left a crushed door behind.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yvonne...where are you?

[He runs a hand through his hair, standing in the middle of a room somewhere, having frantically torn apart the already disastrous room when it had managed to pry the information out of someone at headquarters, a door lays crushed behind it, some other kind of magic having been used there, nothing. Not a single hint of them.]

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair is pacing the hallways, phone held to his ear]

What do you mean she can't come to the phone?

[There's a muffled response and something about 'escape' and 'injures' it tenses up, grip tightening on the phone]

What was that? Where are th—

[The line goes dead and he stands in the middle of the hallway, a mix of emotions running through it, his hands shaking, the air temperature rising rapidly around it]

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

Do you want there to be a catch?

[the-wilting-flowers]

There's always a cost for something like this.

What do you want?

[silent-and-deadly]

I want you to be safe, and I want you to get out of the cult. No payment required beyond just letting me know you're alive every now and then once you're officially out.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He scoffs, then, almost reluctantly, as if the words are being pried out of it, it sighs]

I don't care if I make it out alive.

I haven't for years. I only have one goal. That's it.

But sure. If i make it out, doubtful, but I'll keep you updated.

Wanted to know the leverage they've got?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I would like to know.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Then...their name is Yvonne.

Yvonne Heartstone. My younger sibling.

I messed a few years ago. Got involved with Closeknit. Figured out what they were. Tried to leave.

As you can guess, that didn't exactly work out.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yvonne.

Okay.

Yeah, I can see that. I'm so sorry.

Do you have any details in particular about what's going on with how they're leveraging them or do you only know that they could be hurt if you try to leave again?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Not your fault. I'm the one who failed them, I was responsible for them.

They kidnapped them, broke into the hotel room we were staying in while i was gone and they took them.

As if I've been told, as long as I stay in the organization and listen, they'll be 'safe', here and there I'm allowed to see them. Never in the same place.

[silent-and-deadly]

How old are thay?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yvonne is only fifteen. Had their birthday recently. Wasn't allowed to see them for it.

They tried to run away again as well recently.

[The air around him starts to warm up again]

[silent-and-deadly]

Holy shit.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah. That's one way to put it.

Leo broke their leg and almost their arm for trying to run.

He never sent a healer to heal them either. Since I don't know where they are, I can't send one to them either.

[silent-and-deadly]

Do they ever tell you the location that you're going to meet at ahead of time or does it just kind of happen?

[the-wilting-flowers]

No. I have to put a blindfold on or someone puts one on me. Then someone else drives me to wherever they are. Then when I have to leave, the blindfold goes back on.

They always move them somewhere else after i leave, I know that for a fact.

[silent-and-deadly]

So we really are going on an incredibly small amount of information...

I want to help you get them out, but I'm not good at these kinds of rescues. Would it be okay if I consulted some of my friends on this and we worked out a way to get them free from there? Or would you prefer that it just stays as the two of us knowing?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yes. A very...abysmal amount for sure.

If you had met me sooner? I probably would have said no. Or if Leo was still alive. But...as long as it's no one from the department, then, yes, please. Even if it turns out I have to stay in Closeknit, they...deserve a life. A chance to be an actual kid, not... being locked away and constantly scared.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, kids really shouldn't have to get wrapped up in this mess.

We'll get them out, and we'll get them safe. Once that happens, we're getting you out too.

[the-wilting-flowers]

They really shouldn't.

Thank you. Really. If this really gets them out, I don't know how I'll repay you, but just give me the word.

Me? I won't hold my breath. it's a kind thought, but I haven't seen a way out for myself for a long time now.

[silent-and-deadly]

Repay me by holding out some hope for yourself too.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Tall order there, ain't it? I can't make any promises, but I'll try. Here's my number. Need any information, I'll try to help. Or even if you just have a question.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, hope's a pretty hard thing, but thank you for trying. I'll make sure to keep in touch with you.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm. If i get any new information or if i get to see them, I'll reach out as well.

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

Do you want there to be a catch?

[the-wilting-flowers]

There's always a cost for something like this.

What do you want?

[silent-and-deadly]

I want you to be safe, and I want you to get out of the cult. No payment required beyond just letting me know you're alive every now and then once you're officially out.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He scoffs, then, almost reluctantly, as if the words are being pried out of it, it sighs]

I don't care if I make it out alive.

I haven't for years. I only have one goal. That's it.

But sure. If i make it out, doubtful, but I'll keep you updated.

Wanted to know the leverage they've got?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I would like to know.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Then...their name is Yvonne.

Yvonne Heartstone. My younger sibling.

I messed a few years ago. Got involved with Closeknit. Figured out what they were. Tried to leave.

As you can guess, that didn't exactly work out.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yvonne.

Okay.

Yeah, I can see that. I'm so sorry.

Do you have any details in particular about what's going on with how they're leveraging them or do you only know that they could be hurt if you try to leave again?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Not your fault. I'm the one who failed them, I was responsible for them.

They kidnapped them, broke into the hotel room we were staying in while i was gone and they took them.

As if I've been told, as long as I stay in the organization and listen, they'll be 'safe', here and there I'm allowed to see them. Never in the same place.

[silent-and-deadly]

How old are thay?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yvonne is only fifteen. Had their birthday recently. Wasn't allowed to see them for it.

They tried to run away again as well recently.

[The air around him starts to warm up again]

[silent-and-deadly]

Holy shit.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah. That's one way to put it.

Leo broke their leg and almost their arm for trying to run.

He never sent a healer to heal them either. Since I don't know where they are, I can't send one to them either.

[silent-and-deadly]

Do they ever tell you the location that you're going to meet at ahead of time or does it just kind of happen?

[the-wilting-flowers]

No. I have to put a blindfold on or someone puts one on me. Then someone else drives me to wherever they are. Then when I have to leave, the blindfold goes back on.

They always move them somewhere else after i leave, I know that for a fact.

[silent-and-deadly]

So we really are going on an incredibly small amount of information...

I want to help you get them out, but I'm not good at these kinds of rescues. Would it be okay if I consulted some of my friends on this and we worked out a way to get them free from there? Or would you prefer that it just stays as the two of us knowing?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yes. A very...abysmal amount for sure.

If you had met me sooner? I probably would have said no. Or if Leo was still alive. But...as long as it's no one from the department, then, yes, please. Even if it turns out I have to stay in Closeknit, they...deserve a life. A chance to be an actual kid, not... being locked away and constantly scared.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, kids really shouldn't have to get wrapped up in this mess.

We'll get them out, and we'll get them safe. Once that happens, we're getting you out too.

[the-wilting-flowers]

They really shouldn't.

Thank you. Really. If this really gets them out, I don't know how I'll repay you, but just give me the word.

Me? I won't hold my breath. it's a kind thought, but I haven't seen a way out for myself for a long time now.

[silent-and-deadly]

Repay me by holding out some hope for yourself too.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Tall order there, ain't it? I can't make any promises, but I'll try. Here's my number. Need any information, I'll try to help. Or even if you just have a question.

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

Do you want there to be a catch?

[the-wilting-flowers]

There's always a cost for something like this.

What do you want?

[silent-and-deadly]

I want you to be safe, and I want you to get out of the cult. No payment required beyond just letting me know you're alive every now and then once you're officially out.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He scoffs, then, almost reluctantly, as if the words are being pried out of it, it sighs]

I don't care if I make it out alive.

I haven't for years. I only have one goal. That's it.

But sure. If i make it out, doubtful, but I'll keep you updated.

Wanted to know the leverage they've got?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I would like to know.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Then...their name is Yvonne.

Yvonne Heartstone. My younger sibling.

I messed a few years ago. Got involved with Closeknit. Figured out what they were. Tried to leave.

As you can guess, that didn't exactly work out.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yvonne.

Okay.

Yeah, I can see that. I'm so sorry.

Do you have any details in particular about what's going on with how they're leveraging them or do you only know that they could be hurt if you try to leave again?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Not your fault. I'm the one who failed them, I was responsible for them.

They kidnapped them, broke into the hotel room we were staying in while i was gone and they took them.

As if I've been told, as long as I stay in the organization and listen, they'll be 'safe', here and there I'm allowed to see them. Never in the same place.

[silent-and-deadly]

How old are thay?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yvonne is only fifteen. Had their birthday recently. Wasn't allowed to see them for it.

They tried to run away again as well recently.

[The air around him starts to warm up again]

[silent-and-deadly]

Holy shit.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah. That's one way to put it.

Leo broke their leg and almost their arm for trying to run.

He never sent a healer to heal them either. Since I don't know where they are, I can't send one to them either.

[silent-and-deadly]

Do they ever tell you the location that you're going to meet at ahead of time or does it just kind of happen?

[the-wilting-flowers]

No. I have to put a blindfold on or someone puts one on me. Then someone else drives me to wherever they are. Then when I have to leave, the blindfold goes back on.

They always move them somewhere else after i leave, I know that for a fact.

[silent-and-deadly]

So we really are going on an incredibly small amount of information...

I want to help you get them out, but I'm not good at these kinds of rescues. Would it be okay if I consulted some of my friends on this and we worked out a way to get them free from there? Or would you prefer that it just stays as the two of us knowing?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yes. A very...abysmal amount for sure.

If you had met me sooner? I probably would have said no. Or if Leo was still alive. But...as long as it's no one from the department, then, yes, please. Even if it turns out I have to stay in Closeknit, they...deserve a life. A chance to be an actual kid, not... being locked away and constantly scared.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, kids really shouldn't have to get wrapped up in this mess.

We'll get them out, and we'll get them safe. Once that happens, we're getting you out too.

[the-wilting-flowers]

They really shouldn't.

Thank you. Really. If this really gets them out, I don't know how I'll repay you, but just give me the word.

Me? I won't hold my breath. it's a kind thought, but I haven't seen a way out for myself for a long time now.

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

Do you want there to be a catch?

[the-wilting-flowers]

There's always a cost for something like this.

What do you want?

[silent-and-deadly]

I want you to be safe, and I want you to get out of the cult. No payment required beyond just letting me know you're alive every now and then once you're officially out.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He scoffs, then, almost reluctantly, as if the words are being pried out of it, it sighs]

I don't care if I make it out alive.

I haven't for years. I only have one goal. That's it.

But sure. If i make it out, doubtful, but I'll keep you updated.

Wanted to know the leverage they've got?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I would like to know.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Then...their name is Yvonne.

Yvonne Heartstone. My younger sibling.

I messed a few years ago. Got involved with Closeknit. Figured out what they were. Tried to leave.

As you can guess, that didn't exactly work out.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yvonne.

Okay.

Yeah, I can see that. I'm so sorry.

Do you have any details in particular about what's going on with how they're leveraging them or do you only know that they could be hurt if you try to leave again?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Not your fault. I'm the one who failed them, I was responsible for them.

They kidnapped them, broke into the hotel room we were staying in while i was gone and they took them.

As if I've been told, as long as I stay in the organization and listen, they'll be 'safe', here and there I'm allowed to see them. Never in the same place.

[silent-and-deadly]

How old are thay?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yvonne is only fifteen. Had their birthday recently. Wasn't allowed to see them for it.

They tried to run away again as well recently.

[The air around him starts to warm up again]

[silent-and-deadly]

Holy shit.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah. That's one way to put it.

Leo broke their leg and almost their arm for trying to run.

He never sent a healer to heal them either. Since I don't know where they are, I can't send one to them either.

[silent-and-deadly]

Do they ever tell you the location that you're going to meet at ahead of time or does it just kind of happen?

[the-wilting-flowers]

No. I have to put a blindfold on or someone puts one on me. Then someone else drives me to wherever they are. Then when I have to leave, the blindfold goes back on.

They always move them somewhere else after i leave, I know that for a fact.

[silent-and-deadly]

So we really are going on an incredibly small amount of information...

I want to help you get them out, but I'm not good at these kinds of rescues. Would it be okay if I consulted some of my friends on this and we worked out a way to get them free from there? Or would you prefer that it just stays as the two of us knowing?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yes. A very...abysmal amount for sure.

If you had met me sooner? I probably would have said no. Or if Leo was still alive. But...as long as it's no one from the department, then, yes, please. Even if it turns out I have to stay in Closeknit, they...deserve a life. A chance to be an actual kid, not... being locked away and constantly scared.

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

Do you want there to be a catch?

[the-wilting-flowers]

There's always a cost for something like this.

What do you want?

[silent-and-deadly]

I want you to be safe, and I want you to get out of the cult. No payment required beyond just letting me know you're alive every now and then once you're officially out.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He scoffs, then, almost reluctantly, as if the words are being pried out of it, it sighs]

I don't care if I make it out alive.

I haven't for years. I only have one goal. That's it.

But sure. If i make it out, doubtful, but I'll keep you updated.

Wanted to know the leverage they've got?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I would like to know.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Then...their name is Yvonne.

Yvonne Heartstone. My younger sibling.

I messed a few years ago. Got involved with Closeknit. Figured out what they were. Tried to leave.

As you can guess, that didn't exactly work out.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yvonne.

Okay.

Yeah, I can see that. I'm so sorry.

Do you have any details in particular about what's going on with how they're leveraging them or do you only know that they could be hurt if you try to leave again?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Not your fault. I'm the one who failed them, I was responsible for them.

They kidnapped them, broke into the hotel room we were staying in while i was gone and they took them.

As if I've been told, as long as I stay in the organization and listen, they'll be 'safe', here and there I'm allowed to see them. Never in the same place.

[silent-and-deadly]

How old are thay?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yvonne is only fifteen. Had their birthday recently. Wasn't allowed to see them for it.

They tried to run away again as well recently.

[The air around him starts to warm up again]

[silent-and-deadly]

Holy shit.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah. That's one way to put it.

Leo broke their leg and almost their arm for trying to run.

He never sent a healer to heal them either. Since I don't know where they are, I can't send one to them either.

[silent-and-deadly]

Do they ever tell you the location that you're going to meet at ahead of time or does it just kind of happen?

[the-wilting-flowers]

No. I have to put a blindfold on or someone puts one on me. Then someone else drives me to wherever they are. Then when I have to leave, the blindfold goes back on.

They always move them somewhere else after i leave, I know that for a fact.

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

Do you want there to be a catch?

[the-wilting-flowers]

There's always a cost for something like this.

What do you want?

[silent-and-deadly]

I want you to be safe, and I want you to get out of the cult. No payment required beyond just letting me know you're alive every now and then once you're officially out.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He scoffs, then, almost reluctantly, as if the words are being pried out of it, it sighs]

I don't care if I make it out alive.

I haven't for years. I only have one goal. That's it.

But sure. If i make it out, doubtful, but I'll keep you updated.

Wanted to know the leverage they've got?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I would like to know.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Then...their name is Yvonne.

Yvonne Heartstone. My younger sibling.

I messed a few years ago. Got involved with Closeknit. Figured out what they were. Tried to leave.

As you can guess, that didn't exactly work out.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yvonne.

Okay.

Yeah, I can see that. I'm so sorry.

Do you have any details in particular about what's going on with how they're leveraging them or do you only know that they could be hurt if you try to leave again?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Not your fault. I'm the one who failed them, I was responsible for them.

They kidnapped them, broke into the hotel room we were staying in while i was gone and they took them.

As if I've been told, as long as I stay in the organization and listen, they'll be 'safe', here and there I'm allowed to see them. Never in the same place.

[silent-and-deadly]

How old are thay?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yvonne is only fifteen. Had their birthday recently. Wasn't allowed to see them for it.

They tried to run away again as well recently.

[The air around him starts to warm up again]

[silent-and-deadly]

Holy shit.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah. That's one way to put it.

Leo broke their leg and almost their arm for trying to run.

He never sent a healer to heal them either. Since I don't know where they are, I can't send one to them either.

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

Do you want there to be a catch?

[the-wilting-flowers]

There's always a cost for something like this.

What do you want?

[silent-and-deadly]

I want you to be safe, and I want you to get out of the cult. No payment required beyond just letting me know you're alive every now and then once you're officially out.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He scoffs, then, almost reluctantly, as if the words are being pried out of it, it sighs]

I don't care if I make it out alive.

I haven't for years. I only have one goal. That's it.

But sure. If i make it out, doubtful, but I'll keep you updated.

Wanted to know the leverage they've got?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I would like to know.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Then...their name is Yvonne.

Yvonne Heartstone. My younger sibling.

I messed a few years ago. Got involved with Closeknit. Figured out what they were. Tried to leave.

As you can guess, that didn't exactly work out.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yvonne.

Okay.

Yeah, I can see that. I'm so sorry.

Do you have any details in particular about what's going on with how they're leveraging them or do you only know that they could be hurt if you try to leave again?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Not your fault. I'm the one who failed them, I was responsible for them.

They kidnapped them, broke into the hotel room we were staying in while i was gone and they took them.

As if I've been told, as long as I stay in the organization and listen, they'll be 'safe', here and there I'm allowed to see them. Never in the same place.

[silent-and-deadly]

How old are thay?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yvonne is only fifteen. Had their birthday recently. Wasn't allowed to see them for it.

They tried to run away again as well recently.

[The air around him starts to warm up again]

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

Do you want there to be a catch?

[the-wilting-flowers]

There's always a cost for something like this.

What do you want?

[silent-and-deadly]

I want you to be safe, and I want you to get out of the cult. No payment required beyond just letting me know you're alive every now and then once you're officially out.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He scoffs, then, almost reluctantly, as if the words are being pried out of it, it sighs]

I don't care if I make it out alive.

I haven't for years. I only have one goal. That's it.

But sure. If i make it out, doubtful, but I'll keep you updated.

Wanted to know the leverage they've got?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I would like to know.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Then...their name is Yvonne.

Yvonne Heartstone. My younger sibling.

I messed a few years ago. Got involved with Closeknit. Figured out what they were. Tried to leave.

As you can guess, that didn't exactly work out.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yvonne.

Okay.

Yeah, I can see that. I'm so sorry.

Do you have any details in particular about what's going on with how they're leveraging them or do you only know that they could be hurt if you try to leave again?

[the-wilting-flowers]

Not your fault. I'm the one who failed them, I was responsible for them.

They kidnapped them, broke into the hotel room we were staying in while i was gone and they took them.

As if I've been told, as long as I stay in the organization and listen, they'll be 'safe', here and there I'm allowed to see them. Never in the same place.

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

Do you want there to be a catch?

[the-wilting-flowers]

There's always a cost for something like this.

What do you want?

[silent-and-deadly]

I want you to be safe, and I want you to get out of the cult. No payment required beyond just letting me know you're alive every now and then once you're officially out.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He scoffs, then, almost reluctantly, as if the words are being pried out of it, it sighs]

I don't care if I make it out alive.

I haven't for years. I only have one goal. That's it.

But sure. If i make it out, doubtful, but I'll keep you updated.

Wanted to know the leverage they've got?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I would like to know.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Then...their name is Yvonne.

Yvonne Heartstone. My younger sibling.

I messed a few years ago. Got involved with Closeknit. Figured out what they were. Tried to leave.

As you can guess, that didn't exactly work out.

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

Do you want there to be a catch?

[the-wilting-flowers]

There's always a cost for something like this.

What do you want?

[silent-and-deadly]

I want you to be safe, and I want you to get out of the cult. No payment required beyond just letting me know you're alive every now and then once you're officially out.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He scoffs, then, almost reluctantly, as if the words are being pried out of it, it sighs]

I don't care if I make it out alive.

I haven't for years. I only have one goal. That's it.

But sure. If i make it out, doubtful, but I'll keep you updated.

Wanted to know the leverage they've got?

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

Do you want there to be a catch?

[the-wilting-flowers]

There's always a cost for something like this.

What do you want?

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.

[silent-and-deadly]

Alright, just pop on inside here...

[He leads him into one of the buildings and takes him over to a mostly secluded corner. There's the faint shimmer of magic for a moment and then all sound from the outside stops. He can still see out of the ward, but no one can see him.]

And there we are!

I've set up a detection ward too so we'll know if anyone comes near us.

[the-wilting-flowers]

[Alistair looks...on edge as he looks around the ward, fiddling with a shealth on its leg, then crossing his arms over its chest, eyes narrowed slightly]

... What's the catch?

[silent-and-deadly]

[Someone with red and black hair bumps into him, something tumbling out of the other person's pockets]

Sorry.

[He quickly walks past, grey eyes glaring down at the concrete, a Closeknit pamphlet left on the ground]

- 🪻

Oh, it's fine! You're all good!

[He notices the pamphlet and picks it up. He matches his pace to keep up with him.]

Hey! I think you dropped something!

[the-wilting-flowers]

[He stops walking and looks at the pamphlet. A scowl appears on its face briefly, before a forced grin takes its place, bags under its eyes]

Ah, that thing... Thanks for grabbing it.

[He holds a hand out for it, the air around it growing warmer]

[silent-and-deadly]

Hey, no problem, man.

Any chance I can grab you a coffee or something? You look pretty tired.

[the-wilting-flowers]

A coffee?

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't be offering that if you knew where i worked.

I appreciate the offer, but I'm kinda busy at the moment.

Sorry. I'm being impolite, Name's Alistair. Alistair Heartstone. You?

[silent-and-deadly]

That's okay. I'm Allan. Nice to meet you Alistair.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Nice to meet you as well.

[He flips open the pamphlet]

Kinda tacky, isn't it?

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, it is pretty tacky. Conspiracy theories and graphic design aren't really my scene though so I couldn't really tell you how to fix it up to be more appealing.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Could probably burn it. Think that's the only way to really fix it.

Conspiracy theories?

[silent-and-deadly]

Burning it could totally work. That'd probably keep it out of mind and help you forget about it.

Yeah, like I get that Closeknit's whole deal is a support and informational group, but most of it's been proven false and the support they offer is more high control than it is actually supportive, but you really can't tell anyone who's deeply involved that because it's the kind of thing that shakes their whole world view.

My partner got caught up in that stuff a while back and it's really taken them a while to get their head on straight about a lot of things.

That stuff really preys on your fear and desire for community and packages it's racism and hate all up in a thin veneer of a secret only you understand and the people involved being the only ones who'll understand you or give you any power over your life.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Definitely, though guess burning all them would be a bit of a challenge.

Yeah. They definitely present as a 'supportive' and 'welcoming' group, can't really say any of it is true, probably best to stay away from all of it, really, its a—it sounds like a waste of time, doesn't it?

I'm— im so sorry to hear that's horrible, good thing that they got out, though. Hope they're doing better these days. That place isn't...

Have to say i agree with you there. I wouldn't trust a word that comes out of their mouths if you ever attend a meeting. Feel bad for anyone who gets caught up in it. Under any circumstances.

Wonder if anyone ever really gets out.

[silent-and-deadly]

You could just soak them in lighter fluid, throw a match in and be done with it. I know that can be pretty satisfying.

They're doing a lot better now. They're in therapy now and have been working on building up a support network and they're going to school to be a vet, so I'd say the change in living situation has been very good for them.

I've heard of a few people who've really gotten out. Wasn't an easy process and I think a couple of them are members of the undead now, but that's a whole other thing.

Closeknit's a pretty rough thing to get involved in, whether you're actively participating in it or coming against it.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Yeah? Mind me asking if you have experience with that?

Good, that's... encouraging to hear, I guess...Hopefully no one is still bothering—Hopefully none of the members are trying to mess with them and don't again.

Do you mean Mo— Sorry, who got out? Doesn't seem like that's exactly an easy thing to manage. Or like something you'd get out of unharmed, though based on the undead things, I guess not everyone leaves alive then.

Yeah... it really is. Especially if they've got some kind of leverage against you.

[silent-and-deadly]

Yeah, I've got some pretty solid experience with that. Sometimes there are things that you just want to forget.

Mortimer and another guy who's name I'm forgetting right now. It's not easy, yeah.

Have they got some kind of leverage against you right now?

[the-wilting-flowers]

I see. Any idea what burns the fastest?

How'd they get out?

[He tenses up, subtly looking around]

Excuse me?

[silent-and-deadly]

Oh, sorry. I can ward things off if you feel like it'd be safer to have a conversation that way. I've been getting better at the cloaking ones lately if you're especially paranoid.

[the-wilting-flowers]

...

Which one would attract less attention but still be effective.

[silent-and-deadly]

The ones that cloak and block noise are probably going to be our most effective ones. We just need to step off into one of these buildings here and then I can get us set up.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Fine.

I should let you know beforehand that i have a weapon.

Just to be clear. Not that I think I'll need it.

[silent-and-deadly]

Thanks for letting me know. I totally understand why you'd have that on your person because you really can never be too careful.

[the-wilting-flowers]

Mm.

I'll...come with you.

I don't think i have any other choice. I can't find the files.