The sun had just begun its descent, painting the sky in shades of amber and rose as Marcellus stepped out of the Governor's mansion.
With Edwin's permission securely obtained, he adjusted his cloak, feeling its weight settle comfortably on his shoulders, a gift from Edwin.
The season had just begun to change.
Marcellus's steps were purposeful as he navigated through the bustling streets of Mythralis, the city's liveliness was palpable, its heartbeat synchronous with the rhythmic clatter of carriages and the distant hum of the market square.
His destination was clear in his mind, Finn's Inn, a passable establishment tucked away in one of the quieter districts of Mythralis.
It was essential to touch base with him, to start his training and perhaps gather more insights or assignments that would further his own goals.
I have to go back to Wisbech soon if nothing else to boast to that corrupt priestess.
Upon reaching the inn, Marcellus was greeted by the familiar sight of its aged wooden sign swaying gently in the evening breeze. The inn, with its welcoming stench from the apertures, appeared as an oasis of drunk men and working girls.
He made his way inside, nodding briefly at the innkeeper who acknowledged him.
The common room was bustling with activity, filled with patrons enjoying their evening meal.
Marcellus scanned the room, his heightened senses cutting through the noise, searching for any sign of Finn.
He approached the innkeeper, his demeanour calm yet authoritative.
"I'm looking for Finn," Marcellus inquired, his voice low but clear.
The innkeeper's expression shifted, a flicker of confusion passing over his features before settling into a blend of surprise and concern.
"Finn, sir? Haven't seen him all day. It's unlike him to be away without a word," the innkeeper replied, wiping his hands on his apron.
Marcellus's brow furrowed slightly. It was usual for Finn to disappear without notice, especially given the nature of his association.
Deciding to investigate further, Marcellus made his way to Finn's room. The door was ajar, an indication that the room had been accessed recently. Pushing it open, he stepped inside, his eyes quickly scanning the modest quarters.
The room was orderly, with no signs of struggle or hurried departure. However, there was an unmistakable emptiness, a sense that the room hadn't been occupied in some time.
It was as though Finn had vanished, leaving no trace of his whereabouts or intentions.
Marcellus stood in the centre of the room, a myriad of thoughts swirling in his mind. Finn's disappearance was a puzzle, one that needed solving. It could be a simple matter of personal business, or it could be something more concerning, possibly even dangerous.
He decided to conduct a more thorough search of the room, looking for any clues or messages Finn might have left behind. His fingers brushed over the surfaces, his eyes sharp as he meticulously examined every corner. But as the minutes ticked by, it became increasingly clear that there were no answers to be found here.
Exiting the room, Marcellus felt a growing sense of urgency. He needed to widen his search.
If I can't find this boy how will I teach him? I should have asked Aulus about this will I chase him everywhere?
Stepping back into the streets of Mythralis, Marcellus's mind was alight with possibilities and plans.
The city of Mythralis was vast, Finn was one of many pirate wannabes.
Just as Marcellus was about to give up on his search for Finn, a little boy approached him. The boy had a mischievous grin on his face and a twinkle in his eyes.
"I know where Finn is," the boy said. "But it will cost you."
Marcellus found it comical that a boy younger than his cousin was trying to extort him, but he didn't care. He gave the boy five copper coins, and the boy led him to a brothel.
Marcellus rolled his eyes, but he reached into his pocket and pulled out five copper coins. He handed them to the boy, who grinned and pocketed them quickly.
"Now lead me to Finn," Marcellus said.
The boy turned and led Marcellus through the streets of Mythralis. They walked for several minutes, until they finally reached a dilapidated building in a seedy part of town.
"This is it," the boy said, pointing to the building. "Finn is inside."
Marcellus hesitated for a moment. He could hear the sound of laughter and music coming from inside the building.
It was clear that it was a brothel.
Marcellus paused outside the brothel, his eyes narrowing as he surveyed the dilapidated building. The door was slightly ajar, and the sound of muffled laughter and music wafted through the opening.
He hesitated for a moment, his mind racing with possibilities. What if Finn was in danger? What if the boy had led him here into a trap?
But his curiosity and determination got the better of him. He took a deep breath and stepped through the door.
Inside, the brothel was dark and smoky, the air thick with the smell of sweat and fragrance.
Marcellus could barely make out the shapes of the patrons and courtesans huddled in the corners.
He made his way through the crowded room, his eyes scanning for any sign of Finn. He passed by groups of drunken men and giggling women, their laughter echoing in the dim light.
Finally, he spotted Finn sitting at a table in the back corner of the room. He was surrounded by a group of courtesans, his face flushed and his eyes glazed over.
Marcellus made his way over to the table and stood in front of Finn.
"Finn," he said, his voice low and commanding, like a growl.
Finn looked up at Marcellus, his expression a mixture of surprise and confusion.
"Blackeye?" he said, his voice slurred. "What are you doing here?"
"I'm here to talk," Marcellus said.
Finn laughed, his voice raucous and carefree. "Talk? I don't need any talk to you about anything."
Marcellus's eyes narrowed. "You're drunk," he said. "But I also have questions. I'm going to talk to you, whether you like it or not."
Finn stood up, swaying slightly on his feet. "You can't make me do anything I don't want to do," he said.
Marcellus reached out and grabbed Finn by the arm. He squeezed tightly, his grip like iron.
"I can make you do anything I want," he said. "Now come with me."
Finn tried to pull away, but Marcellus's grip was too firm. He was forced to follow Marcellus out of the brothel and into the night air.
Marcellus led Finn through the streets of Mythralis, his hand still gripping Finn's arm tightly. Finn tried to defy, but Marcellus was too strong.
Finally, they reached the Governor's mansion. Marcellus pushed Finn through the door and into the main hall.
"You'll stay here in the mansion until your training is complete," Marcellus said. "And there will be no more drinking or whoring."
Finn glared at Marcellus, his eyes filled with hatred. "You'll regret this, and what do you mean training?"
Marcellus ignored him. He turned and walked away, leaving Finn standing alone in the main hall.