>>6145077 “Unless you can tell me of a way to do it right now or later, here’s my number, we can talk about what happened that day, and my brief meeting with your brother. Goodbye, and I’m sorry for your brother, may he be at peace.” You hand him a piece of paper with your number. You planned it for Lady Steen, but the contract made it easier by sending each one’s number to the other phone.
“I’ll take you by your word. I have a lot to think about…” Dossenius feels like he acted a little rashly. “If anything, you don’t sound old enough to be out of college, how did you get involved in all this?”
“Again, this is a story for another day. Sorry.” You sound apologetic.
“As for the painting, I can’t help. I don’t know how to bring your friend out. I hid something in the frame before the painting was placed, but now it’s sealed under the curse. If you figure this out, please, hand over what you find under it. I’ll wholeheartedly believe your story if you manage that.” Dossenius sounds respectful. Not 100% on your side, but as much as one can be in his shoes.
“It was an empty frame? Who put the painting in it?” You ask.
“A guard with long black hair and strange marks under his eyes. And yes, it was here when I was locked in here.” Dossenius explains.
“Could it be another manner of imprisonment? One to ensure she can’t leave through other means?” Meredith Steen speculates.
“The secret arts! If they were aware of this trickery, sealing their soul is the best way to keep them in captivity.” Hubbard adds to this theory.
“Good job, everyone! You figured it out, probably. Fuck if I know.” Spooky is back in zombie form! She’s clapping condescendingly.
“Phil Noon! I’m glad you’re okay!” Agent Honey Bunny goes for a hug! Poor girl was concerned.
“…” Lady Steen doesn’t say a word, you notice a tiny hint of annoyance.
“T-They’re with me. They’re my *actual* friends.” You point out to the group. Hubbard feels offended.
“Had a plan in my pocket. No sneak attack needed in the end.” Agent Spooky shrugs. She left mid-negotiation!
“We’re all friends here, right? W-We don’t have to beat anyone up?” Honey Bunny realizes she should be on guard. “Nice to meet you all if that’s the case!”
“I don’t hurt business partners.” Lady Steen reassures as she places a hand over your shoulder.
“<span class="mu-i">Huh...</span>” Half-dead business partner A disagrees.
“Please, pay no mind to him. It was his own doing.” Lady Steen chuckles.
“We’re carrying two corpses with us, so I get it.” Odetta points at the painting and Hubbard. Hubbard is offended.
