On board the Mummers Lament
Unlike her new "allies", Ina still required a regular sleeping schedule.
So it was unsurprising that the main congregation hall of the upper deck- referred by its inhabitants as "The Amphitheater- was quite lively this morning.
Well, as lively as the players of the Shattered Mirage can muster up to be.
Soft murmurs and distant chatter coupled with the occasional laughter reverberated throughout, reminding her more of the scholae and prayer houses she frequented in her youth rather than the busy commute on board the Hammer of Elysia.
As the name implied, the area was set like an ornate ancient theatre, with a circular center stage from which columns of seats sloped upwards- these would be parted by four archways, one of which she entered from.
She made her way to the one on her far left, from which a group of loudly conversing young troupers just exited.
The archway lead into a wide corridor where, not too far away, she saw a familiar figure leaning against the entrance to the training chambers: Fae'belle, the snowhaired daughter of Kelreth. Cross-armed and an even crosser expression on her vulpine features.
Upon noticing Ina's arrival, her face quickly lit up: "Ah, Mon-keigh! The much-needed balm to my head pain that is my incorrigible sire!"
Inwardly she sighed. Is it a disagreement over future battle strategies? Her role in the troupe? A misplaced favorite comb? All of the above?
"However can I aid you in ceasing this impasse between you and our Troupe Master?" she asked, trying to hide the mockery as best she could
"Well, see for yourself!" Fae'belle exclaimed- her voice despite her obvious exasperation still melodious.
Concern growing, Ina opened the set of double doors and-
"What in the- Throne, Kelreth! Whatever are you doing?!"
The sight before her was, whilst not horrific, most certainly shocking: There, in the middle of the room, hanging by his feet, bound by several chains and encased in what appeared to be a glass tank filled to the brim with water, was the Eponymous Troupe Master.
"Kel!" she yelled again, this time with more anger, then ran towards the prison of his own making, "what is this nonsense!"
Her only reply was annoyed muffled noises followed by bubbles rising to the top of the glass tank.