#cxnvicts ( cinnabar )

[queenoftheboard]

Cinnabar's hand moves before she could think about it, a small and bashfulーand all too genuine, nonethelessーsmile curling upon her lips as she gives the Quinn CEO a few pats on the head.

♕ unscripted asks . always accepting

It happened out of the blue - there were no actions that could possibly explain that gesture or any words that had been said which could have been declared as motivators. It was an ordinary afternoon, another routine visit to a different manufacturing facility owned by Quinn and where Eirene was making herself not only present, but visible.

The intimidating CEO and founder was not a myth - and the sheer respect she commanded was enough for the average employee to redouble their efforts and to put aside any thoughts that inspired less than diligence and loyalty to the company.

But in the small office space of that manufacturing plant, Cinnabar thought differently. The brunette was standing while Eirene remained seated, a traditional arrangement and one fitting of a bodyguard that never allowed herself to relax while on duty - but that also highlighted the amusing height difference between the two of them. Even if the Quinn president had been standing with her usual heels, Cinnabar would still come out as the taller of the two.

Fitting for a protector role, and no issue at all for Eirene - until that advantage was put to use in another way and it had the older woman stilling completely. The hands holding a couple of printed reports froze, and bi-colored eyes lost focus immediately; a moment was needed before the businesswoman was able to move in the chair, rotating it enough to face the bodyguard at her side.

Now, there was a faint blush on Cinnabar's face - as if the other woman was realizing just what she had done and just the type of person she had... Patted. It was more than breaching some sort of boundary to touch Eirene without her inviting as much, but to do so in a way that felt dangerously childish.

Proud, arrogant, overconfident - those were not traits Eirene Campbell had as a girl under Bryce's tutelage; she wasn't very fond of recalling her time with the other Campbells either.

But Cinnabar didn't mean it - and Eirene could see that much, even as her mismatched eyes narrowed and pinned the younger individual to the spot under her gaze, disallowing the bodyguard to move or look away. A gloved hand dropped the papers to the CEO's lap and then moved skywards to capture Cinnabar's offending limb, or so one thought.

But if the younger female was expecting some sort of insult or physical punishment, it didn't quite turn out to be that way. Eirene lowered the other girl's palm then pressed it against her own face, closing her eyes for a second and seemingly enjoying the warmth that seeped from Cinnabar's digits to her own skin. In that moment, it was as if the Campbell heiress was out of time and space - not an icy queen with an empire to run, but just a human with a heart.

"You are so unlike anyone I've ever met, Cinnabar," the businesswoman said at length, eyelids revealing the unique gaze once more while Eirene removed the brunette's hand away from her visage gently, almost as if a sudden reaction could shatter that precious interlude, "I thought it would get you killed before, but maybe it helps you stay alive. I don't think I'd like to see you changed."

A small sigh followed and Cinnabar earned a smile from Eirene - a curious one; it wasn't cruel or sarcastic, but it had a hint of something predatorial, too. But luckily for the bodyguard, the words that followed confirmed that she was under no employment or personal risk.

"You're mine, now. And I don't take kindly to anyone who harms anything - or anyone - I care for."

[violentsinnxr]

HARD-TO-FIND HURT / COMFORT SENTENCE STARTERS.

ー@cxnvicts // "let's get you out of here." (cinnabar to zoya)

❝ Did I really get to a point where people are more worried about me than they are scared now...? ❞ Zoya told herself while she struggled to get back up, only to realize how much she was trembling. Grinning quietly as she looked towards the former security guard, she felt pathetic. She was offering such a deplorable spectacle to Cinnabar after all, she couldn't even feel proud of the fight she just won. It shouldn't be this way... And despite that nagging feeling of shame, Zoya accepted her fate in silence as she raised a hand towards her savior.

❝ ...I need a hand. As much as I'd like to, I don't think my legs would allow me to walk out of here by myself. ❞ the Legion's commander finally spoke up, her voice being as confident as usual despite keeping her head down the entire time.

[ragingsands]

a time once spent ⥽ cinnabar

@cxnvicts

Anarkia had long doubted the possibility of her own loyalty to one large party, rather than individuals.

For most of her life, she sought the idea of someone who was just as special as her, someone who would understand the kind of questions she was often clouded with, someone who would also cling onto the potential of a future foretold. Someone who would let her see into the future and believe in her words - that was the kind of love that Anarkia wanted.

It did not have to be a country. Not an organisation. Not a group of anything.

After all, she had been forsaken far too many times, and humans were such fickle beings. Therefore, when she had come across the individual who went by Cinnabar, she pondered if for a while, they should have talked beyond business.

Cinnabar was a friendly, warm presence, yet Anarkia - possessed by the idea that not a lot of people were to be trusted - she couldn't help but find herself both magnetised and loathing to bring the idea up. They had been settled in a tent, and they had avoided the talk of why they were truly here, evading anyone, but Anarkia was the best at navigating the sandstorms. Cinnabar too, had given her no reason for her wrath to resurface.

Her golden claws brushed against the fabric of Cinnabar's tent, and her blue eyes had taken a peek into the tent, if just for a second to scan for her adventuring partner for the moment.

"... Cinnabar, are you present?"

[wiildcardd]

starter for @cxnvicts​ (Genshin Verse) 

❝ cinnabar, ❞ her name rolled off her tongue as if naming her protégé in the military roll call so many moons ago.  ❝ if you hold the sword too tightly, you’re going to give your palms friction burns. ❞ it was here that the former fatui soldier’s electro vision was unveiled, unbuttoning the military uniform at the top to reveal the purple sparks emanating from the necklace that zoya had worn since she was young. duels, so trivial and yet this one before her looked to take her vengeance for the mistakes that her own family caused. she readies herself for what was to come, stormbearer mountains being the perfect backdrop for what would be the end for either of them. 

there does zoya stand, blade slowly unsheathing. she could tell from her former pupil’s eyes that she was adamant on this battle and no matter how many times the fatui deserter would beat herself up over the crimes of her mother and father, it still wouldn’t be enough for an apology. no, this needed to happen. years and years of pent up anger and frustration to be vented ‘pon each other until the very end.  ❝ show no mercy towards your enemy, cinnabar. i won’t hold back. ❞

thunder strikes once more, this time harnessed by the former mage to form a ring of fire around the two as she grits her teeth.  ❝ just know that everything that happened was not what i intended... and that my biggest mistake was never telling you who i was. ❞ and with a grip of her blade, she dashes towards cinnabar when lightning strikes ‘pon tree and plunges her fist right into the gut of the soldier that she had trained. cinnabar had become so strong, has she not trained so hard and built up the muscle in her body, zoya was scared her fist might have ruptured her stomach or worse.  ❝ get up, is this how you intend to honour your family? on your knees? ❞

harsh taunts, but one to serve to motivate. that was the fatui way.   

[ephixltes]

[  SOUND  ]  *  your muse prevents my muse from making any sounds. (cinnabar)

―  𝑵𝑶𝑵𝑽𝑬𝑹𝑩𝑨𝑳 𝑺𝑬𝑿𝑼𝑨𝑳 𝑺𝑰𝑻𝑼𝑨𝑻𝑰𝑶𝑵𝑺.  ( or not so sexual / open prompts ) // @cxnvicts

She doesn't hesitate—grabbing Cinnabar by the hand and pulling her down to the ground, pushing herself well into Cinnabar's personal space, body to body. Hecate's cold, cold fingers press themselves against Cinnabar's lips in an effort to somehow stifle the taller woman's gasping breaths, whilst her other hand busies itself under the fabric of Cinnabar's shirt, steady despite the situation against the skin of Cinnabar's toned abdomen. Hecate's expression, devoid of expression as it usually is, for once does not match the look in her eye—wide with a plea left unspoken, but no less desperate...

... Somehow separated from the Chief and the rest of their group, and under a barrage of attacks, the taller woman's shield had given way, and she had taken the brunt of the hits that would have otherwise been meant for Hecate. There had been effectively no choice but to retreat and take shelter behind a stack of crates, and hope that they had managed to lose the enemy. Hope that the enemy won't notice or hear them hiding here until the Chief or one of the other Sinners can get to them.

For now, though, they can try to take stock. Hecate can try to take stock. Cinnabar had been hurt—badly. Normally composed, and no doubt experienced in battle, Cinnabar's fading consciousness robs her of some of her better senses. She probably can't help the sound of her ragged, laboured breathing—each breath sounding utterly tortured. Hecate's probing fingers come away from their investigation slick and dark with blood. She has to stem the blood, somehow—she's already torn the sleeves off of her gown to try and use as a makeshift bandage, though with how thin the fabric is, it barely makes a difference, Cinnabar's blood soaking through and through.

She didn't want things to turn out like this. Not again. This is what happens when people show her kindness; when people try to protect her. So they shouldn't—but how can Hecate be angry with the other Sinner, when she has only ever been kind?

"I'm sorry," Hecate hears herself saying. Muttering. Mouthing into Cinnabar's jacket, though they’re supposed to be keeping as quiet as possible. As she tries to hold onto the other woman, to keep her semi-upright, somehow, though Cinnabar is so much taller than she is. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry..."

[cxnvicts]

SINNER DETAINED ー THREAT ASSESSMENT A ! MBCC － S － 052 : CHAMELEON

cxnvicts   ー   an independent, semi-selective, and low-activity multi-muse featuring Path to Nowhere’s certainly up-to-no-good Sinners: Chameleon, Cinnabar, McQueen, Female!Chief, and more as imagined by Milky !!

report   //   dispatch assignments // muses

[queenoftheboard]

♙ 1.b3 . an opening for Cinnabar / @cxnvicts

The routine of Eirene Campbell as the president and CEO of Quinn Group was probably not what many imagined it to be - unlike other business conglomerate leaders, the woman at the helm was controlling and perfectionist; to be at the top meant that she needed to stay aware of mostly every detail. Delegating came hard to her - and any sort of occurrence that deviated from normal operations and the smallest oddity were required to be raised and brought directly to Eirene's attention.

And that was exactly what happened when the sensors installed in one of the warehouses owned by Quinn in District 12 were activated. They were triggered in the middle of the night, but the cameras located at the facility offered a confusing feed. It was easy to see someone getting inside, quietly and orderly... And then not leaving, opening it to other strangers or seemingly doing anything that posed a risk to the place.

In fact, the report that found itself at Eirene's hands stated that this mysterious invader appeared to be sleeping; they had located the administrative office close to one of the gates and seemed to have crashed on the couch available there. Frowning, the blonde requested to be sent the video footage, and analyzed it with a team of security and IT specialists.

The idea of someone just crashing a Quinn warehouse to sleep off a hangover was immediately discarded - some degree of knowledge was required to manage access to the place and the remote systems showed it had been professionally done. Yet, the following actions did not match those of any rivals of Quinn (or Campbell enemies) - and it was all made even more mystifying when the technology team managed to get better resolutions out of the cameras, enough to identify the trespasser.

Eirene immediately recognized her - Cinnabar, the individual who was once the pride and joy of Serpent's Eye and a highly trusted service provider among the Eastside elite. The woman had used them a few times for security reasons, but had never been sent Cinnabar; everything the blonde knew about the other female were the public reports, the media articles and the gossip following her apparent desertion from a mission a few months back.

Cinnabar had been missing since then - was this the reason that brought her to one of Quinn's warehouses, maybe? Just need for shelter and a break while on the run from the authorities? Drumming fingers over her desk, the business magnate pondered over her next move, simulating a few scenarios in her mind before deciding on one that involved an unusual approach.

With the aid of her IT team, they brought a computer online in the room occupied by the former Serpent's Eye operative and turned on the audio, as well as the webcam. On the other side, a microphone was connected to the CEO's own machine, and therefore enabled her to talk remotely to Cinnabar while getting some average-quality image and thus able to examine the other woman's reactions.

"Good morning, Cinnabar, former supervisor from Serpent's Eye," although the bodyguard had no live feed, one could imagine the soft smile tugging at Eirene's lips while she spoke - the excitement of making a new move in her daily mental chess games was always exhilarating, "This is Eirene Campbell, president of the Quinn Group. I was hoping to have a brief chat with you, if you have the time. I would be willing to come to a presential meeting, of course," a pause followed, where the blonde woman smirked from the other side, "After all, I do have the keys to all warehouses we own, such as the one you have found."

[queenoftheboard]

a kiss between two people in a fake relationship . ( I'M SORRY I JUST SAW THIS SIX HOURS LATER AND I- anyway with cinny :> )

♕ kiss & tell . accepting

When Eirene received reports that another Campbell was in DisCity, the businesswoman immediately entered into her equivalent of a battle mode. Summoning her closest advisers, trusted employees and bodyguard, the woman gave clear and precise instructions about the fact: any half-sibling in town was to be located and have their whereabouts delivered to her immediately.

None of them should be in DisCity - she was the head of the Campbells now, and if people were defying her orders... Well, the Sinner had never wanted to be the next Bryce, but Eirene was not above defending her own turf. Quinn had been founded and maintained by her, thanks to the blonde's own efforts and dedication, and any brother or sister hoping to steal a part of that kingdom following the old Bryce tactics was not welcome.

Once the information came about the half-brother who had indeed come to town, Eirene decided on the approach: she was going to go undercover, pay him a visit and deal with it efficiently, before he had the chance to escape. There was, of course, protesting in relation to such ideas, particularly when most of her workforce was not aware of the fact that their boss was a powerful Sinner.

That was when the business magnate moved in her chair, finding Cinnabar's face in the room and smiling sweetly at her - which, of course, meant some kind of devious plan which the other woman would be pulled into a be a part of. Eirene clarified that the bodyguard would be escorting her, but that it was all she was going to say for the benefit of their mission.

Later, Cinnabar would find out that the secrecy was not due to any fears of the plan being leaked to the other Campbell sibling (the people who had been summoned to Eirene's office were trustworthy, after all), but to protect the brunette's reputation. After all, they needed to come up with creative and feasible disguises to approach the misbehaving brother without arising suspicions, and while Eirene's idea was good, it was likely to make Cinnabar reticent at best.

That was because the strategy of the CEO and president of the Quinn Group involved dressing Cinnabar as some mysterious socialite from Paradeisos, a figure who would be expected to have a lot of money to invest in whatever shady plan the treacherous Campbell boy was up to. It needed to be someone from far away for the cover to work - anyone from Eastside would be too easily debunked and exposed, people from Fraser City would be known to their target, Syndicate had no such people... Really, Paradeisos was their best option.

Besides - the makeover experience was a fun experience (to Eirene), but Cinnabar did look stunning once they were finished. They gave her hair extensions for long and luxurious tresses not dissimilar from the ones that the businesswoman favored, as well as a lovely business suit paired with a pencil skirt that concealed part of the security specialist's physique (one most wouldn't expect of someone who lounged around all day). The heels they procured for the brunette were classical, but not too high to help her walk around with comfort (as well as sprint towards Eirene for safety, if required).

The bodyguard, however, had no idea that her own boss' disguise would cause her to feel even more mortified; if dressing in a business attire with pumps made Cinnabar uneasy, the final blow really came with Eirene fitted in a way that was nothing regal - gone were the expensive fabrics, elegant cuts and gems that adorned her neck and wrists normally; instead, the Campbell heiress had her hair hidden by a channel wig in an impressive work by the stylists, the shortest and most revealing mini-dress the woman had ever worn in her life and a strappy pair of heels that were tied around her legs up to the knees. The final touch was a pair of sunglasses - intended to cover her trademark eyes, and perfect for a girl feigning the worst hangover of them all.

When Cinnabar looked at her boss (for maybe a moment too long than she was supposed to) and asked just who Eirene was meant to be, the oldest female laughed and clung to the bodyguard's arm, temporarily pushing her sunglasses to the top of her (fake) hair and looking up to the brunette (somehow, even in these heels, Eirene was still shorter than her protector).

"I thought it was obvious - I'm your sugar baby," the president of Quinn spoke with undeniable glee, moving in for a kiss once she realized they were alone in the office-turned-dressing room for a night. The kiss was not candid or innocent - Eirene went for the kill, lips locking with Cinnabar in a show of intention and desire; there were pulls at the front of the bodyguard's suit, tongue into her mouth and their figures pressing against each other until they separated at the blonde's directions.

"So? Did I do it convincingly? I borrowed the idea from a friend of mine and it seems that I need to be incredibly scandalous with you for everyone to buy it," Eirene explained as if it was something completely normal, like another business transactions or a chess move - but it was obvious that there was a degree of personal enjoyment, because the Campbell heiress did not often smile like that when gazing at her bodyguard. Well, maybe it had something to do with the adorable blush coloring the cheeks of the fake Paradeisos socialite.

"Trust me, my brothers are all the same - we'll get invited to a private meeting soon enough and then we can deal with this one quietly. We just need to make some noise and draw attention first," Eirene explained, and then leaned on Cinnabar's arm for support again, looking up at the brunette but without pouncing on her like a wild feline... At least for the moment, "I should mention that you get a few days off after this, Cinnabar. I know this is not what you signed up for when we negotiated your employment agreement," the Campbell heiress said, and for a moment, it was an extremely intriguing vision - Eirene had shifted into her usual business persona, but while looking like a rich councilman's arm candy.

At Cinnabar's stunned silence (maybe because of the contrast between her boss' looks and speech or perhaps due to the after-effects of the kiss), Eirene laughed quietly again, this time pressing herself against the stronger frame of her protector once more and keenly aware of the movements performed then.

"Unless you'd like a different sort of payment - you know me, Cinnabar. I'm always willing to negotiate, particularly with my best service providers and employees."

[cxnvicts]

SINNER DETAINED ー THREAT ASSESSMENT A ! MBCC － S － 419 : McQueen

❝ Painters want to make a living by painting, and the buyers want to purchase famous paintings. I’ve helped them realize their dreams. Why are you mad at me, Chief? ❞

cxnvicts   ー   an independent, semi-selective, and low-activity multi-muse for Path to Nowhere’s certainly up to no good Sinners: Chameleon, Cinnabar, Che, Ignis, K.K. & McQueen as written by Milky !!

report   //   dispatch assignments  

[queenoftheboard]

As Cinnabar spoke, Eirene listened to her intently; the coffee in her hands could have been a mere prop since the businesswoman made no move to drink from the cup until the security specialist had finalized wording her thoughts, producing a small smile on her prospective employer. The pleased demeanor of the Quinn president had not gone away even in face of the younger female's initial refuse.

After all - none of the arguments that Cinnabar had offered were unexpected; they were precisely the type of commentary one would have assumed a competent individual to make, and one that truly cared about the well-being of her clients at that. If the brunette was a different sort of person, she would probably have jumped at the chance offered - not only to have some of the food made available (which Eirene noticed that hadn't been touched), but also the chance to have a steady source of income.

"All very valid points, Cinnabar. And yet, it seems to me that you have not considered that I'd be willing to make that fugitive status disappear, or work around it somehow before meeting you today. Your current situation was made known by Eastside's media, of course," the blonde replied initially, only then taking a sip of the coffee and giving the other woman a moment to appreciate the implication of her words. Eirene knew about Cinnabar's predicament - and yet still dangled that employment offer in front of her.

It was either a show of power or an extremely risky move from the business magnate; perhaps both.

"I'd like for you to put this issue aside for a moment and to entertain the idea of working for me nonetheless. Quinn strives to be the best in everything - I settle for nothing less," Eirene then bent forward, an elbow resting over crossed legs so she could lean her face into an open palm, not moving her chair forward but nonetheless giving the impression of being closer. The other hand placed the coffee back on the table, leaving the ungloved digits free.

"I would like to have you as my personal bodyguard because you are the best of them all, Cinnabar. I know my success will invariably cause resentment, malice and real, tangible threats on my life that other people will not be able to stop. You, however, will. Precisely for the reasons that ended up making you a fugitive," Eirene nodded, knowing some of the story; not only about the other woman's abilities as a Sinner, but also because the reports painted Cinnabar as someone with a conscience; loyal.

Eirene needed someone with these skills for the role - and to ensure she meant it, the older female did something that explained the reason for her bodyguards to have been ordered outside earlier. It wasn't just an implicit show of trust in Cinnabar's good intentions, but also a necessity in order to have Eirene revealing a little something about herself.

"I'll let you in a little secret that will explain why I'm confident that our arrangement could work, provided you have been sufficiently convinced in relation to your reservations," Eirene said while leaning back into her chair, legs still crossed and using her right hand for a small demonstration: turning her palm skywards, the woman kept Cinnabar under her impressive glare during all times despite the formation of a small ball of energy out of thin air, the dark purple and black hues mixing beautifully and entirely subject to the control of the Quinn Group's CEO.

And then, her hand moved - the small pulse of energy found one of the pastries and absorbed it instantly, leaving no trace of the food and dissipated a second later with a flick of Eirene's wrist. The businesswoman's smile widened then, and there was something satisfying in how the older female's bicolored gaze gleamed following that private showing.

"Things are not always what they seem in Eastside, my dear Cinnabar. When I say I could hide you in plain sight just as I do... This is not wishful thinking; this is a fact."

There was only so much Cinnabar could do to make herself more presentable before the Quinn CEO's arrival. Without a change of clothes (she needed to abandon what little she had with her while escaping from the authorities the night before, and couldn't return for them without the risk of being caught), a thorough wash of her face was the best she could do, fingers threading through dark locks, brushing them in place for one too many times until she was finally satisfied, though a heavy sigh still left her as she looked at her reflection.

Still, no amount of preparation could make Cinnabar feel any less meek within the magnate's presence. 

Eirene brought with her this air of authority and confidence. And it was evident in the way she carried herself as she walked into the room. In the way she spoke to the bodyguards escorting her, dismissing them with little to no protest to be heard. 

Meeting and working with people of prominent status had been the norm for the security supervisor prior to her indictment. As such, Cinnabar was especially familiar with how many proudly flaunted their power to incite fear in their employees; councilmen threatening those beneath them a swift dismissal should they make the tiniest bit of mistake, the elite using their status so their servants never dare oppose them. They, too, held a high degree of authority over their people. One moulded through fear and abuse. One lathered with distrust and hatred.

The exchange between the Quinn President and the bodyguards was brief, but it was still enough for Cinnabar to decide there was none of that fear present. There were no nervous glances at each other for affirmation. No uncertainty in the way they quietly obeyed the instructions given to them, swift to leave the room as told. An odd thing for bodyguards to do, unless they wholly trusted their client.

The President and CEO of the Quinn Group… She was, Cinnabar concluded, someone worthy of respect. Someone amazing.

Quietly accepting the coffee with both of her hands and a quiet thank you, Cinnabar eyed the pastries on the table, unable to keep her cheeks from flushing a quick shade of red as she kindly shook her head at the offer. Although her stomach ached to finally be filled, it still felt wrong for her to just take some of the food. Especially now that it had finally clicked how she just invaded a powerful figure's property. Now that she was well aware of how utterly pathetic she must look, despite earlier attempts of fixing her appearance.

Alyosha would've certainly given her a proper sermon, had he any clue of all of this.

"Thank you for coming all the way here just to talk to me in person, Miss Eirene." She began, her back straightening as she spoke. She had hoped to apologize more sincerely to Eirene about the trespassing now that they were face-to-face, but it was clear the businesswoman was not at all interested in that. She was here to discuss further the prospect of Cinnabar's employment, and her question only made it clear. Which… didn't really make it any easier. It was in Cinnabar's nature to always want to correct her wrongdoings. Yet at the same time, she did not want to upset the other by taking too much of her busy time rambling about. Swallowing down the urge to sigh, the former bodyguard brought her coffee up to her lips, taking a long sip from it.

"Yes." Cinnabar's voice sounded rather strained then. As though she had to force the word out (and she did). Very well. She will have to apologize at another time. "I am grateful for your offer but as you already know, I am currently a fugitive on the run. Having me under your employment would only bring you trouble should the council find out. Not only that, with all the districtsーEast and Westーhaving been made known of my crime, it would be very difficult for me to do my duties in public without getting caught." And what sort of bodyguard would she be, if she cannot even stand beside her employer?

Shaking her head, she set the disposable cup down on the table, a soft, saddened smile on her lips. "To work under the Quinn Group's CEO would have been an honour, but with things as they are, I am not qualified to protect you, Miss Eirene. If it is a bodyguard that you need, however, then I can recommend people who I know shall serve you to the best of their abilities."

[queenoftheboard]

On the other side of the screen, Eirene's face exuded some soft amusement - oh, that was adorable! Did Cinnabar honestly believe that the reason for that inventive conference call was to have her pay for whatever damage was caused and to apologize for trespassing? Quinn had no shortage of funds to repair anything that needed to be fixed, and while the group's reputation wouldn't take it kindly to the news of being invaded, that incident would never make it to the local headlines.

"My dear Cinnabar - I'm not calling to say I intend to press charges; in fact, I merely wished to discuss an employment offer with you," the blonde said, chin leaning into an open palm while her oddly colored eyes remained glued on the screen. The quality of the video was not the best, but closer to the monitor it was easier to notice the toll that running away was inflicting on the security specialist: the brunette looked thinner, probably due to the exhaustion of always being on the run and without proper food or shelter.

"It is my understanding that you are currently free of your former ties with Serpent's Eye. As it happens, Quinn is expanding fast - and not every Eastsider takes well to a woman with foreign connections being this successful," the blonde said with remarkable simplicity, but knowing it would be hard to dispute the claims she was making. Over the last few years, Eirene had built a considerable empire in DisCity - enough to draw the attention of the 9th Agency, but also the jealousy of other players who thought their turf secure.

Eirene was perfectly able to deal with such threats - her abilities more than provided ample protection to the Quinn CEO, but using them also meant risking detection of the mechanisms set in place by District 14's wards and using her back-up solutions. It would benefit her own plans to have a proper bodyguard and act as any other high profile businesswoman would, biding her time until it was the proper moment to reveal herself entirely.

And there was no one better than Cinnabar in that department - if Eirene had been more religious, she would thought some sort of deity responsible for having moved the pawns so capriciously on their chess board; as it stood... Well, she appreciated the generosity of the universe. More than a blessing, the business magnate believed in luck (to awaken as she did; to be at the right place at the right time; to have the best security profissional in her own hands).

"I should be over in fifteen minutes or so - is there anything I can offer for your breakfast?" Eirene's words did not leave a lot of room for a negative answer from Cinnabar - but given the bodyguard's earlier claims, it sounded unlikely she would turn the meeting down. "We usually have the best coffee and pastries for any business meetings at Quinn's headquarters - this one should be no different."

Evading the City Council had been easy at first. 

Residents of Eastside often paid little mind to the poorer districts, and so Cinnabar remained there ever since she went into hiding. But with the Council soon placing her under the most wanted list, coupled with the increase of reward for her capture, even those who never once heeded the words of the authorities began turning their heads, and Cinnabar’s close encounters with the police and near arrest had become more and more common.

It had left her so utterly exhausted since, physically and mentally. Once toned and well built body now weaker ー leaner ー as even the public markets have become a challenge for her to visit and purchase food from. And then there’s the problem with money for purchasing, as she could not withdraw any from her bank lest her whereabouts be discovered. In the end, she would spend days without eating. And spend her evenings unable to sleep.

She whispered an apology and a promise not to disturb any more of the property owner’s things as she found her way into one of the private warehouses lined up along the district’s outskirts, careful not to ruin much of the security’s wires as she snipped a few to remove its alarms. Although she usually kept her head held high and confident, hunger and shame for having to resort to trespassing into other people’s property had left Cinnabar even meeker than she usually is. For now, she comforted herself by ensuring not a single object would be ruined or disturbed during her stay ー mentally noting how she must fix the wires she had cut earlier in the morning, before she leaves.

A heavy sigh slipped past her lips when she could at last lay on a comfortable couch. All the ache in her weary body came to her in full, its constant begging for a moment’s respite answered at last.

ー Good morning, Cinnabar, former supervisor from Serpent's Eye.

Eyes open in a hurry when at unfamiliar voice bouncing within the room she'd occupied, guard held up at once as she sat up and stiffened in place.

❝ Eirene Campbell… ❞ She echoed in a quiet whisper.

The name alone is enough to sober Cinnabar from her drowsiness; her chest squeezing with worry and caution. Oh, how exhausted she must have truly been, to have allowed herself such a grave mistake. She should have made closer inspection of the warehouse before breaking in. She should have made sure that it was abandoned and unused, and disconnected every security camera before closing her eyes to sleep.

Cinnabar followed the sound of a computer coming to life, and though reluctant she may be, she slowly took her seat on one of the swivel chairs there, taking note of the webcam's light blinking. She could see her. Could easily tell who she was, despite how disheveled she had become. And right now, Cinnabar's safety and freedom all rest in Eirene's mercy.

A deep breath in, if only to still the anxious beating of her heart.

❝ Iー... ❞ She swallowed dryly, the hands on her lap tightly balled into fists. ❝ I apologize for breaking into your property, Miss Campbell. If... If there is anything I can do to properly apologize for it, then... ❞ Then by Eirene's will, Cinnabar shall do it, if only to preserve this flimsy freedom of hers. ❝ My time is all yours. ❞ She says instead, eyebrows furrowed as she straightened her back in attention.

Cinnabar could hear her smile, almost. Could almost imagine how entertaining this must be, to someone who now held Cinnabar's fate in her hands.

❝ What is it that you would like to discuss with me, miss? ❞

[violentsinnxr]

To be of help… Zoya wondered why, despite all the enemies she's made over the years, there were always a few odd ones that were willing to lend a hand. People in the MBCC kept praising Cinnabar's professionalism though, so maybe that was the only reason behind it.

Carefully sitting on the ground with her back to the wall, her tired eyes wandered around, looking for all the wounds she accumulated during that last fight. Her arms and stomach took most of the beating. Those red cuts around her forearms suddenly reminded her of the Chief's shackles… A strange thought to have now, but a reminder that she probably wouldn't have survived that fight if she wasn't a Sinner.

That said, the woman in front of her shared the same fate. Opening up to her, even slightly, could potentially help her change her mind from these negative thoughts... It was worth a try. Putting a hand in her hair, Zoya tried her best to swallow her pride. She took a deep breath, finally raised her head and looked at Cinnabar with a smile.

❝ I always get paired up with reliable people somehow. ❞ she sighed, immediately thinking about her second-in-command before she continued her thought, ❝ I guess those praises about you weren't exaggerated. Thanks for backing me up out there. Now I know what I lack… I'll make sure to fix that for next time. What about you though? Got any injuries? Or am I the only reckless one here? ❞

violentsinnxr​:

HARD-TO-FIND HURT / COMFORT SENTENCE STARTERS.

ー@cxnvicts // “let’s get you out of here.” (cinnabar to zoya)

❝ Did I really get to a point where people are more worried about me than they are scared now…? ❞ Zoya told herself while she struggled to get back up, only to realize how much she was trembling. Grinning quietly as she looked towards the former security guard, she felt pathetic. She was offering such a deplorable spectacle to Cinnabar after all, she couldn’t even feel proud of the fight she just won. It shouldn’t be this way… And despite that nagging feeling of shame, Zoya accepted her fate in silence as she raised a hand towards her savior.

❝ …I need a hand. As much as I’d like to, I don’t think my legs would allow me to walk out of here by myself. ❞ the Legion’s commander finally spoke up, her voice being as confident as usual despite keeping her head down the entire time.

      Shield on one arm, she offers her free hand out to Zoya to pull her up with, ever so ready to offer her shoulders for support. This sort of response is nothing new to Cinnabar now. Even the geezers back with the Serpent Eye hated being seen like thisーin need of assistance and not at all the same strong warrior they pose to be. So when Cinnabar offers the bruiser a small smile, she can only hope that the other doesn’t take it as pity.

❝ We’re working under the same team for this mission, Miss Zoya, ❞ she finally answers, eyes briefly scanning the taller woman’s body for any hints of open wounds. Those will have to be tended to first before she allows the legion leader to move too much or walk a distance.❝ If I were to let fear conquer me, then I wouldn’t serve to be of much help to you now, would I? ❞

Not that she’d been of much help to begin with. For most of the fight, Cinnabar was left to face the smaller goons while Zoya took care of the bigger prey. It’sーamazing. How strong the legion leader is. And so as someone less powerful. As someone who could do nothing else but watch in awe, Cinnabar hopes she could at least take good care of Zoya until help arrives. ❝ Here. Let’s take you rest against a wall at least. ❞

[violentsinnxr]

cxnvicts​:

The little dig at her earlier comment does not go unnoticed, and it easily brings a chuckle from Cinnabar, gloved hand covering her lips as she laughs. ❝ Here, why don’t I sweeten it up for you? If you manage to behave for the rest of the day, and properly let your body take its well-deserved break until tomorrow morning, then I shall volunteer to be your training buddy for, say… the rest of the week? ❞ She hums, tapping her chin briefly in thought, ❝ hm. Yes, ‘til the rest of the week should suffice. Well? ❞ Though, Cinnabar’s almost certain the legion leader would be banned from entering the training room for today, anyway. With her injuries, Zoya’s lucky if the nurse were to allow her to even return to her cell.

Bunching her knees up to her chest, the former security wrapped her arms around them, pulling them closer. Usually, she would freely let the silence settle in. She was never good at conversations, after all. But… She gives Zoya a brief, worried glance, before staring ahead of her again. She’ll have to keep Zoya awake ( not that she seems tired… nor does she seem to be in verge of passing outーwhich is good! But one can never be too careful, Cinnabar thinks. ) And distract her from whatever thoughts may be clouding her mind, if she could. 

As a fighter herselfーno, as a defender who only wishes to serve and do her bestーCinnabar thinks she understands. The frustration that might be brewing within Zoya. The desire to train more. The wish to protect.

❝ Won’t you tell me more about them? Your, er… Your people, that is. Ah, but only if you’d like to share, of course! If not, then that is perfectly alright as well. ❞

❝ A week, huh... Alright, sounds good to me. ❞ Zoya calmly answer with a hint of a chuckle in her voice.

With her eyes still closed, she was already playing their fights in her head, taking into account everything she managed to observe while Cinnabar was getting rid of their enemies earlier.

It was still quite blurry in her mind though. Can you blame her? She had to deal with a gigantic monster. And so, she wondered how Cinnabar would fight against another Sinner. An old-fashioned one-on-one doesn't feel the same. It's always such a special interaction...

Although her mind was now busy imagining things, Cinnabar's voice reached the gang leader's ears, changing the topic for quite a heavy one.

❝ Hah, my people... Come on, I'm just a gang leader, not a mayor. ❞ she replied with a smile.

❝ They were just a bunch of goons. But they were bold enough to try and change things in Syndicate with me, I'll give them that.

It would've been easy for them to fall into a vicious circle and ruin their lives but they chose to take the hardest route.

I wanted to lead the way, give them opportunities and yet... All they received were lethal wounds and broken promises. Some of them, at least. ❞

Once again, her last conversation with her second-in-command started replaying in her mind... And the only words she had now were words of gratitude. For him, for her mentor, for her Legion, for the Chief who came to save her and so many others...

❝ The only thing left for me to do is to keep going until eventually, things change for the better. Now that I'm aware of methods other than mine, I'm willing to try anything. ❞