Catlin and Neely dashed through the back alleys of West Drop for a sign; any possible signs of struggles. Catlin needed to search thoroughly but she knew they were running out of time. If the city’s citizens were to be believed, Brisa was seen running with a young lady down these very alleys a few hours ago.
When there were fewer people around, Catlin searched more intently. She knew the gankers attacked quickly and efficiently. They would attack where they would not be seen, kill the target, and take what they wanted. Catlin hoped that Brisa found a way to escape the trap and get away, but with Brisa’s perception the way it was, chances were slim.
Though Neely’s movements were aided by his new mech suit, Catlin often left him behind as they frantically searched each and every alleyway. Catlin hoped to find Brisa whole and alive. Soon, every bend became a dramatic event. With every empty or otherwise used alleyway, Catlin praised that Brisa wasn’t found harmed yet was frustration that Brisa wasn’t found at all.
The pair had come to what seemed like another dead end. They had searched the area’s set of back alleys with no trace of Brisa yet. They were very near a populated area, a shopping complex. There, they had turned to an alley they had barely seen with Catlin’s rushed pace.
About half an hour ago, they had gained the attention of a guard though he lagged far behind them both. He was strangely unconvinced that Brisa had been taken this way even though every townsfolk up to this point had said otherwise. They searched through the alley for evidence but found none of Brisa.
After a few minutes, the guard jogged around the corner. They learned his name was Sasuke Si, a new recruit that apparently has not finished his endurance training. Bent over and out of breath he barely managed to speak, “I think… we should go… to head… quarters… get more men… looking.”
At this the pair stared at each other and then at him, in awe. They were astonished as his actions showed utter incompetence. In the alley, there were blood stains, sword slashed walls, and many other signs of numerous struggles. This may not have been where Brisa was lead, but it definitely was worth looking into.
Catlin’s eyes turned flame red though she asked calmly, “What do we have to look for?”
At almost the same time, Neely spoke up, “I think you should call this in.”
Taking in the sight of the bloody alleyway, Sasuke staggered back and had to agree. He promptly left the alley and reached for his handheld.
Looking at the guard walk away, Catlin knew he would be of no help. She searched deeper into the alley and found a locked door that she knew had to lead somewhere. Waving Neely to her area, she asked, “Do you think this is the place?”
“This has to be the place,” he responded, “The rest stop guy clearly said there was a singular group of gankers.” He reasoned further, “The townsfolk also said that the same lady had brought other people in this way.”
“And this is where they went,” Catlin reasoned.
Neely’s handheld buzzes. He answers and finds Liana on the other end. Apparently he and Catlin had lost track of time because it was nearing hour seventeen. Jaquan wanted to leave for Bear Gate immediately.
Neely understood his rush, Jaquan had taken a big risk setting aside his pride for this opportunity. However, looking at Catlin’s face Neely knew that she wanted to stay in West Drop and find Brisa. “I’m sorry,” he said, “Could you go on without us? We’ll catch up to you guys soon.”
“Alright, see you th…,” were Liana’s words as her image faded from his handheld.