The sky poured down hard on the Big Easy, as people headed for shelter this evening. The Sun, obscured by the heavy rain clouds, sank into the distant horizon, as night descended over the street flooded as the deluge rushed to the drains, vanishing into the darkness beneath the pavement. People from all over traveled to the Crescent City, and in particular tonight, April 30th, a few rather unusual figures would be in the usual hustle and bustle.
Called to the city by an unknown patron, these three souls arrived at The Carrefour, a high end social club where only those in positions of high privilege were allowed in. It was only when they shown the seal of the letter that they were allowed entry, and were guided in by one of the staff. Men and women of status conversed amongst each other, most likely talking about hedgefunds and how to increase their already disproportionate wealth and power. Occasionally they would look over to the motley crew, a few of them scoffing, other giving curious glances, before returning to their idle chatter.
Heart attempted to dry her long hair a bit, but found little success. Her feathers weren't much dryer on the surface, but at least they'd kept her a bit warm. She clutched the gem resting beneath her collar bone with a bit of unease. In her pocket, her other hand held tight the communicator she kept there. She was at least well dressed for this engagement, with a rather nice hooded coat inspired by contemporary fairy tales. Her damsel styled blouse and leggings went right along with this. Her blue eyes scanned the room for anything or anyone she should be looking out for. While inside she tried to fend off the homesickness she was already feeling having been away from Anaheim for a week or so already, and her brothers having to stay behind there.
Stepping out of a taxi was a tall, hooded cobra with a tall, black umbrella. His scales were a mixture of purples and black, with his neck having some reds mixed in. He arrived in a white suit and a black suitcase at his side. He looked around as he entered the club, lowering and closing the umbrella. Showing the invitation, he was surprised when he was told he'd have to wait. He was slightly irritated, thinking it was a power play, but put the letter away and looked slowly around the area. He noticed the glances and scoffs, but he took a breath. Ignore the rabble and stick to the job. He admittedly loved this scene. A high stakes, very fancy club. If he made a name for himself, perhaps showing up at one of these things wouldn't be strictly for business.
Keeping their head down and trying not to be seen, a small, roundish figure scuttled their way into club, collar of what could be mistaken for a white jacket turned up to hid their face. As the (supposedly) disgraced Dr. Fitz Widget runs a hand through the white fur on top of his head, the middle aged tapir keeping an eye out for anyone who might, somehow, recognize him. Nervously fingering the handle of his 'emergency plan' hidden under his coat and adjusting his thick rimmed glasses, he makes his way to the agreed upon location.
With their letters in hand, the trio was brought together, and lead through the establishment. Big whiggs and socialites rubbed shoulders, boasting and bragging about their recent acquisitions, paying little mind to the three. Soon, they would be brought to a room towards the back, the staff member opening the door. Within was a large meeting room, with a table that stretched from near the entrance to the back. At the opposite end, a tall and slim built owl with ebony feather looked them over, his amber eyes anazlying each one of them. Checking his watch, he looked back up to them, his expression betraying no emotion, and his voice having a proper bearing to it.
"Excellent, you all have arrived on time. Take a seat, we have much to talk about. I am Stryx, and I will be representing your employer," Before him, on the table sat a suitcase, closed tight and the handle facing the raptor.
"...Representing?" the snake asks, "As in, the benefactor will not be joining..." he looked at the other two, then back at the owl. "...Us?"
Heart looked to the other two in just as much confusion. However she gave a nod and took her seat. Taking a deep breath, she looked at each of the others and then at the owl again with an air of optimism about her.
Dr. Widget pulls nervously at the collar of his undershirt, flipping down the collars of his lab coat, looking this way and that. Taking a few hesitant steps, he approaches the table, pulling out a chair to sit in, "S-sooooo, we, um, we are at the right place...then?" "Not tonight, I'm afraid. Madame has some rather pressing matters she had to deal with that came up last minute, so I am here in her place." The raptor said, with nary the slightest change in expression on his face. His head shiveled over towards the tapir, as he nodded, "Indeed, Dr. Widget, this is the right location, worry not."
Heart tilted her head curiously, "Madame? I hope everything is alright?"
The snake hadn't sat down yet, but on seeing as his benefactor was banking on poor first impressions, he decided he would sit and bear it. "Fine then... I suppose I can ask you all the questions I have."
"Your concern is appreciated, but I assure you, she has matters under control. Now then... for the job at hand. Would any of you be familiar with a Mister Richard Bucksly?" He said, interlocking his feathery fingers together.
Heart shook her head, feeling quite lost in a number of ways.
That name never came up for him, so the snake kept quiet.
"Hmm... well.. Mr. Bucksly is the current owner of Buck$mart... the wretched box store chain that has been popping up like mushrooms. Not only that, but, he has been caught recently with his hands in an artifact smuggling ring based in the Mediterranean. Your patron has learned that he has in his possession something she wishes to add to her collection, the Eye of Argus, and is willing to pay you all quite handsomely for it." With that, he patted the briefcase right in front of him.
Fitz nods, as if in understanding, and says, "What's an Eye of Argus? I mean besides a relic?"
Heart looked on with widened eyes, her head swimming with confusion a bit. "She wants us to...what? With all do respect, I'm not sure I-..." she paused, and tried to regain her thoughts. She glanced down at the sapphire in her hand, taking another deep breath. She remembered why she was there in the first place. She tapped the surface of the gem thoughtfully, "I'm not sure what I can do to help in that regard...but I'll try to help?"
While the though of stealing is... less then thrilling to the Tipar, Fitz can't help but acknowledge that his current 'situation' leaves him little choice. But even desperation and his firm belief in a rational universe doesn't change the kind of stories heard heard of from place like Duckburg or Cape Suzzet.
"Okay... I need to ask now." he says, sitting up a bit. "...If you want us to steal something... why hire a team? Surely only one person would be inconspicuous enough to steal whatever artifact."
"A team isn't so bad to rely on," Heart mentioned a tad boldly, "There may be things one of us can't do that another can, or looking out for the others, and so on?" Very good question," The avian answered both scientist and the professional thief, and pulled out a manila envelope. Placing it open on the table, he slid it over to the trio. Several depictions of a crystal orb resembling an over sized eye were before them, ranging from engravings from antiquity to recent photographs from a dig site mere weeks ago.
"Legends say it's from the skull of the giant Argus, and the wielder's perceptive abilities are opened to an impossible degree... and as for why she wants a full team... Frankly, I don't know myself. She has her reasons, I know that much..."
"Maybe she thought whatever skills we have to offer will compliment the other?" Heart offered.
"That is a possibility."
The snake felt a twitch in his eye. "...Your employer is asking for a lot... Breaking and entering... Burglary... You could be looking at a few years in prison. 10... 20 years... almost your whole life." the snake says, looking at the owl, but mostly trying to scare away the ones sitting with him.
Fitz begins looking pale and shaking, but keeps sitting by way of gripping the armrests of his chair like a vice.
Hearing this, Heart should have felt alarmed, but instead found that she wasn't really afraid. Then again, she had a way of disguising herself during the job. She also, well, had other reasons to wave these possible fears away.
Letting out a slight sigh, the owl replied as plainly and as coldly as he has before. "My employer has made it clear, if you wish to back out of this agreement, you are free to do so. However, as stated before, she is willing to pay you each quite well." With that, he pulled out a key, and popped open the briefcase before him, revealing rather thick stacks of cash. "One hundred thousand dollars for each of you as it stands at this moment."
"On top of what ever arrangements she has in mind for each one of you specifically."
The white feathered duck looked at the briefcase in a bit of surprise, but knew it wasn't the money she was seeking out. That wasn't why she was here. It was the mentioned arrangements she was listening for.
"Anything else we need to know about the job at hand?" Fitz inquired.
The snake let out a whistle of approval ending with a slight hiss. That was a lot of cash... Regardless of who was asking. "...Well, that's definitely a start." the snake says, leaning forward a bit. If the other two weren't scared off by a long prison sentence... they must need something big.
Fitz nearly chokes on air, eyes going wide and glasses slipping down his trunk like nose as he stared at the money before him, "...That's a lotta test tubes."
The slightest hint of a grin crossed his hooked beak, before giving a nod, "Very good then. Now, as for what you need to know. First off, Mr. Bucksly, despite his current legal situations, is very much the type to show off, and he's planning a party a week from today. Most likely to show off this acquisition I imagine. Second, while his mansion is far from a fortress, he does have some solid security you will have to deal with. Guards, cameras... honestly, nothing too out of the ordinary for one such as he." With that, he pulled out another envelope, and pushed it towards them... the floor plans of the mansion.
"We have reason to believe it's in the library."
"The utility room and the third bedroom has been converted to the security's office and personal chambers."
Dr. Widget looks over the papers, trying to memorize them as best he can, "Okay, okay, library, second floor..."
Heart studied the papers slid towards them. She looked for ways in and felt her heart racing. A part of her wondered if this was what it felt like to another? She poured over the parchment with a strange eagerness emerging.
"I imagine taking out the electricity could help?" she mentioned.
"We believe he normally four security guards at the location at all times. Usually half one duty and the other half off duty."
"As for how you decided to perform this job... Madame has expressed that she wants you all to decide how to handle this yourselves. I am only to give information."
"I was more so asking the two of them," Heart admitted, "I figured you were just informing us, otherwise she'd send you?"
He gave a nod to his fellow bird, "Very astute."
Heart gave a slight smile at this remark. She also grasped at the necklace she wore once more.
"Well I see." he says, "So... Is there a time frame for this task?"
"I imagine before this party? It would be far too bold to do it that night, and far too risky with a group to care for," Heart mentioned.
Fitz nods once more, "That makes sense, yeah. So if we're, well, all working together we should um... probably know what each of us can do?"
"Simply, that depends on if you want to run the risk of something happening during the party, or if you think the party provides a good enough distraction for your job. I do have one warning though... once you have retrieved the Orb, do not look into it for too long..."
Heart looks to Fitz, "What we can do?"
"...Well I see." the snake says, "Do we have a base of operations provided?"
Suddenly nervous, Fitz ducks into his chair, "I-I mean, we must have contacted for a reason, right? A-and well, knowing...knowing strengths and weaknesses and..." He begins to trail off.
"Indeed, as well as transportation, considering he lives in Florida. She will cover whatever amenities are needed for the task at hand."
Heart watched the tapir with growing concern, "Are you okay? You seem sort of nervous?"
"I um... Yes, yes I am nervous, and...well that doesn't really make much difference, does it?" Fitz chuckles lightly, trying to straighten up a bit.
Heart still wasn't sure just why she was so calm. She then mentioned, "I think names might be useful as well? Can't communicate if we don't know who to call?"
She offered a hand towards the tapir, "Heart Flashblade."
With only a little hesitance, Fitz takes the hand, and smiles lightly, "Dr. Fitz Widget."
"What do you do then?" Heart asked with encouraging curiosity.
"Oh! I, um, I'm a multi-disciplinarian specializing in several fields of study from genetics to..." The Tipar drifts off, having a sudden moment of social awareness.
Blinking, and remembering an old adage, he withdraws from his jacket what almost look like an old toy scifi pistol and, without a word, he points is to a far wall and pull the trigger. A flash of cobalt blue light flares for a few moments before he releases, the spot he had aimed at now covered in a several inches of solid, mist wafting ice.
"...That, I do, or rather build things, that do that."
Heart had jumped at the sudden shot taken, watching in awe at the ice covered object before her now. She thought of her brother's comic books and gave a grin, "That's really...cool?" she couldn't resist.
At the blast of ice, the owl raised a brow, looking at the frozen wall. "Well... there goes the deposit for the room."
Fitz smiled at the duck hen.
"Thank you! It's nice to see someone who can understand the usefulness and practicality of freeze ray!" His smile held for all of minute, before the Owls words registered, "Oh...Oh! I am so sorry! I, I swear it'll melt in just a few hours! Shouldn't even have any water damage or anything!"
The snake flinched a bit from the blast to the wall, "Well... if we have to make a desperate getaway, we have a freeze ray." he says.
"What about you then?" Heart asked the snake.
She glanced briefly at her necklace as though nervous it might vanish. To the tapir she said, "I don't suppose you have the same enthusiasm over magic do you?" Fitz blinks, once, twice, three times, "I mean, I like to believe in a sane, logical universe but... McDuck." He answered.
At that comment, the smallest chuckle escaped the beak of the owl.
"Who's to say that magic isn't a part of that universe? Influencing your science perhaps?"
Heart looked to the owl, curious about his laugh
"Anyway, in regards to what I can offer...it's that?" she attempted, fighting her own shy nature at mentioning what she can do to help.
"Me?" the snake asks, "...I am... an innocent man who decided he wanted to get money in a way most people don't approve of."
She raised a brow at that, "I see?"
"Let's just say when it comes to resumes, mine is more applicable for this job than you both," he says. Though they could tell he was stating a fact more than trying to be insulting.
Heart wasn't as convinced, but said with a slight smirk, "You'd be surprised."
"Well maybe I will be," he says with a slight hiss.
Heart looked to the owl, "Stryx right? When do we leave?"
"Simply put, when you three are ready. There is a private plane waiting to take you all near the destination. That said... once you acquired the Eye of Argue, return here to make the exchange three days after the party, and do attempt to keep casualties to a minimum."
"There doesn't need to be casualties for a heist," Heart stated rather firmly, "I'd rather steal a rock than blood."
Fitz blanched at the idea of people actually being harmed, the memory of screams and comical honking echoing in the back of his mind.
"Hmmm... That's doable." the snake says, then blinks, "Oh right... My name is Fang."
"Fang and Fitz," Heart pondered slightly aloud, committing the names to her memory. "We should probably use aliases for the job though, or an umbrella name?" Fang suggested, "Any ideas?"
"I admit," Starts Fitz. "I'm not so good with that kind of thing."
"Always been worried about being labeled some kind of super villain. Not that I do anything super villain labeling worthy! I don't! Honest. Not that I'm saying it's a bad idea either, it is a good idea. I'm just, not good with code names or nicknames," he added.
"I didn't think you were a villain of any sort, despite the job at hand," Heart shrugged.
"...Do we have to discuss these matters at this very moment?" Fang asks. "We are literally at our debriefing."
"I don't see the harm in it?" Heart shrugged, "It's important to know, and for our employer to know I'd imagine."
"I think an umbrella name is a good idea though."
"That is entirely at your discretion." The owl chimed in.
"I mean, code names and all that usually work better after you'd... I don't know, done something to inspire them?" Fitz suggests. "Somethings just have to evolve naturally."
"No, she has a point." the snake says, "A code name means they can't trace the crime to us if something were to happen." He sighs, "If we're doing this, I can be... Suit. As for Umbrella names... Well I don't normally work with a group."
"Suit?" Heart pondered, "Sounds good to me." To the last comment she mentioned, "It might help to have someone looking out for you then?"
"Uhhh, maybe, Lab coat? No that sounds ridiculous. The Docto- no no, that just begging for a lawsuit. Ah, do they have to follow a theme? Chill maybe?" The Tapir trails off.
"Chill has a nice ring to it," Heart encouraged.
"As for a group name...what about Nocturne? It means a work of art dealing with the night?"
"...While I do not like working with a group... The group name is fine," Fang retorted.
"Ha, works for me!" Fitz agreed.
"And I guess...I can go by Voice maybe?" She ventured.
Heart wasn't sure why in fact she was so vocal with all of this. Something about this got her blood pumping, but at the same time made her think carefully on it.
"So then, Voice, Chill, and Suit I believe? Unless there is anything else you all need at the moment, I'll let the pilot know you all are ready," the owl stated.
Heart gave a bit of a nod while her head swam. Adrenaline rushed through her veins as she grasped the sapphire she wore.
With a deep breath, Fitz stood up, readying himself for what was ahead.
Fang stood up from the spot, sighing. "I suppose we shall. We have a lot to discuss."
Taking the flight to the sunny beaches of Florida, the trio would soon find themselves plotting in the motel their patron had reserved a room for them in. During their first day there, they scoped the estate of the Bucksly manor, getting a good feel for the flow of guards, a good layout of the external security, and the location of the circuit box. Indeed, it seemed like there were only two guards on patrol at at time, and while Richard was often away during the day, he would return in the late evening, and the lights were generally out by 1 am.
"So we could try to go after 1?" Heart suggested, "Where we have the cover of the night. Maybe I could take care of the security system for at least a little while?"
"Could work, but still, you'd think someone with this much money would put a bit more into security." Fitz commented.
"A late night attack is what they would plan for, and we don't have any idea how the security is inside the walls." the snake says.
"I imagine it still runs on electricity either way. Without that it would be hard for them to see us." Heart pointed out, "Going in daylight makes it easier for them to get a good look at us," she added, "If things go wrong."
"Unless all of the guards were a tad distracted by a large event." Fang brought up.
"I still think that makes the window of time too short. That and they may be more focused on escorting the crystal and their owner."
"He may also beef up security for the party." Fitz stated.
"The party should be a back up plan, especially with the three of us so new around each other?" Fang suggested.
"Hmmmm, gimme a few minutes. I've got an idea!" The Tapir says suddenly. "...and done! Heh, didn't even think to hide their wifi network. So, I can turn off the system whenever I want!" The scientist says excitedly, before straining slightly. "Buuuuut only for ten minutes. So uh, that should help, right? Right?"
Heart gave a smile, "It certainly will."
"...Well, that actually DOES help." Fang says.
"Now what to do with that ten minutes? Get in, grab the crystal, and get out?" Fitz asked.
"...Well of course. When we finally plan our break in."
"Tomorrow night? Gives us time to rest up and plan who's going in and all?" Heart suggested.
"We'd needed to know exactly where the crystal is. A lot can happen in just one minute, let alone ten." Fang mentioned.
Heart started to ponder over ideas, looking around the house from where they stood.
"It's in the library." Fitz reminded.
Heart swallowed nervously, "I might have an idea..." Her very skin crawled under her feathers.
Fang raised a brow.
Fitz tilted his head quizzically. "I think I could try and get a look inside?" she said while clasping the necklace she wore, or rather the gem hanging from it.
"..." the snake pauses at that, "...Ahhh a honeypot."
Looking over she mentioned, "He's home too."..she looks at the snake, "A what?"
"...You want to appeal to his masculine interests to have him invite you inside of his home?" he asks.
"Something like that...from what information Stryx gave us he's not shy around a lady," she mentioned, "But if he tries anything...you two are nearby right?"
"Oh." The Tapir says nodding, before his eyes widened in understanding. "OH! Y-y-yeah! We'll keep look out!"
Nearby there would be a conveniently placed bush!
"...This is very risky..." Fang says, "...But I suppose it's an easier option."
"How so?" Heart asked, "And there's risk to all of this."
Looking at the conveniently placed bush, Heart walked behind it. Following this a bright light would ward off any onlookers for an instant. Then she would return...or so they thought it was Heart based on location? However, something about her seemed different, like an aura they couldn't explain masking her. She also was dressed in very nice dress clothes, but not too dressy for someone of high society.
"Well... Er... That is... an outfit. It looks nice." Fang replied.
Fitz's eye twitch for a moment, before rapidly shaking his head and holding a thumb up, "Right! That works! So are... are we doing this right now?" "Thanks," Heart replied looking over it herself, "I hope this works."
"I figured while he's home I can try and get information, I'm an up and coming singer that would catch his eye at least for a moment right?" She hated this, but she took a deep breath, tucked the necklace under her collar, and began to approach the door.
With a casual stride she walked up to the gates and acted as though she were simply trying to look around for some sort of direction.
As she approached the gates, the intercom on them would buzz, "Hey, no solicitors. If you got something to sell, buzz off, and that includes chairites."
"Oh, he sounds nice." Fitz mutters, having taken refuge in the nearby bush.
Heart looked for the button to answer, "Oh, I'm sorry to intrude, I was hoping to speak with Mr. Bucksly in regards to a gathering some of the other social lights told me about? You see I'm a singer, and new in town, and I was looking for any shows I might be able to show my voice at? I was told he might be interested in something like that for his event?"
The cobra's eyes went wide and he hissed in annoyance, but went quiet so the girl could continue her plan.
There was a crackle in the static, before the gates automatically opened. The driveway lead up to the front of the mansion, where a young man wearing a sweater tied around his neck was standing. Handsome, clean shaven, and obviously born into the lap of luxury. "So, you're the musician?"
"I am," Heart said firmly, noting how different his style was in comparison to another, "I go by Saffire, I'm a singer."
"Well, nice to meet you Saffire. You probably know already, I am Richard Bucksly III, and I heard you already know of my little celebration coming up? Come inside, and we can... arrange things." He opened the door, and gestured for her head in.
Heart didn't allow herself to freeze up as her knees told her to. She stepped forward and allowed him to escort her inside. She looked around the entry hall, taking in anything of note she could. "Thank you, I'm sure we can set something up."
Fitz, growing nervous, looked over to 'suit', and began whispering,"She's inside. She's inside and we're suppoused to be watching her. Wh-what do we do?!"
"...Can you not hack into security cameras?" Fang asks.
"So, what kind of music do you play?" He asked, as he brought her in. As soon as they entered, she saw the flight of stairs to her left heading upwards, and the foyer further connected to the living room, dining room, and entertaining/family room, as the map the owl gave them sugggested.
"Oh, I specialize in rock and roll, but I play softer things as well, ballads and such." She replied while taking in details around her, "This is such a lovely mansion you have. I would love to get a tour of it, it would help me to get a feel for the sort of style I would need to prepare for you. Something that beckons your family name to mind so to speak," she requested politely.
The tapir meanwhile was able to hack into the security system once again, and was able to keep an eye on their avian companion. At this compliment, Richard gave a smug smile, as he began to lead her around the mansion. He went on, boasting about his family, their riches, and how he was the new CEO of Buck$mart. Eventually, he would take a moment to break from his bragging... "You know, this party is very special... infact, the very reason I'm hosting it is upstairs. Care to see, Saffire?"
"Right, I've got them on screen- Oh, oh boy this might be very very good or very very bad..."
"...She just has to confirm the location of the eye and leave..." Fang hisses.
Heart gave a nod, "I would."
With that, he began to head upstairs, and lead her up to the second floor. Soon, he brought her into the library... within, there were various artifacts set up on display, mostly from the ancient Mediterranean region. Vases, small statues, various curios... but in the center, under glass and lock, was a crystaline orb, which at first glance looked like as if it was a massive eye, "There it is, the Eye of Argus. My most recent acquisition... cost me quite abit, but, it's worth it."
Heart's eyes widened a bit at actually seeing it in person, "That is...interesting indeed. What do you know about it, I love hearing about lore and magic." She was looking over the room as well to look for ways in and out, distracting him into talking more while she did this.
"Hmmm... well, according to legend, this was the last of the thousand eyes of Argus, the giant from Greek myth with a thousand eyes. It was said he could see everything, and some say if you look into the eye long enough, you can see as he did once...of course, it does no such thing... however, it is very valuable..." He boasted, placing his hands on his hips.
Heart made sure to keep to Stryx's advice and not look into the eye for very long. In fact, a recent event in the back of her mind, made it uncomfortable for her to do so in the first place. She looked to the newly made CEO, "That's really interesting, and here you are living it up like a Greek God as it were?
Heart felt sick saying this, but masked it.
To the south side of the room were two windows, and on each wall were several displays, mostly ancient weapons and shields. He gave a smirk, and nodded. "You could say that. A modern Zeus if you would." Letting out a chuckle, he struck a pose, as if to hurtle a lightning bolt.
Heart forced herself not to roll her eyes. She made note of the windows they could climb up to, and the displays near them. "More of a Hermes fan I guess," she allowed herself to say, with a light hearted tone, "but to each their own."
"And this will be presented at the party in a few days? Until then it's nice and secure right here, sleeping as the giant himself."
She couldn't help but think how poetic this all seemed, complete with a flashy bird showing it off.
"You bet! My men will be watching it, and it's secure under lock and key..." With that, he pulled out a keychain from his chest pocket, and spun it around on his finger. "So, who's your manager, so we can make this official?"
"Oh, that's right. I'm still rather new to this, I've been self promoting. I've done a few events among the social lights," she thought fast, "including one for the movie star, Duke L'Orange. He was hosting an after film party and picked me out back home from other singers. When I told him I was heading this way, he recommended your event to me."
"Is that so? You know Duke L'Orange? Very impressive young miss!" He nodded, as he pulled out a business card, "We can range things like your pay later. I got a meeting I need to catch soon. Pleasure to met you, and looking forward to having you at the party!"
With that, he gave a wink as he gunshoted his fingers at her.
With a sigh, Fitz relaxed, nearly collapsing on the dirt, "Alright, she should be in the clear!"
She took the business card, gave a pleasant smile, and headed out back to the entrance, but said first, "You could say he's a friend of mine" With that she slipped out, pausing briefly at points to act like she was looking for her way, but was really committing the place to memory. Then she went out and found the two outside again.
"...I really want to steal the eye and use it to bash his smug face." the cobra says.
"He's not worth it," Heart said while coming up to them.
Looking to Fitz, she asked, "Are you okay?"
Smiling, the Dr looks to Heart, "Yeah, just relieved everything worked out."
"Trust me...you would have known if he'd tried anything," Heart assured, "The signal would have been very clear."
She slipped the chain of her necklace out to place the gem over her shirt again.
"Great. Now we can take the gem and be long gone before the party is even a thing." Fang mentioned.
"Sounds like a plan to me," Heart replied while stepping behind the bush and then returning as the more casually dressed girl they'd arrived with.
Fitz nods, "We know were the gem is, we have a door into the system, we take say, a day to get supplies, and then we should be good!"
Heart gave an excited smirk, "And Miss Saffire can say she had other events call her attention away."
Fang commented, "Or she can not appear at all."
"Hmmm?"
"You made a good fake name and a fake relationship with someone famous. He can't find you if we leave as soon as we get the Eye." Fang replied.
"Fake relationship-? That wasn't a lie, I do know that star," Heart replied, "I was an up and coming singer back in Anaheim."
He paused. "...But the name was fake, correct?" he asks as he looks at the duck.
"Yes, I just used my name back home," Heart replied, "but it helps to have someone that would help me out if I really needed him too."
"Your name... back home?" the snake asks, his eyes going wide, "As in... The name you used... Has a history?"
"No," Heart said shaking her head, "I meant the name I used back home was my own. The name I came up with was fake."

"I know more about how to handle this sort of thing than you seem to think," she added quietly.
"Ohh Thank God." the snake says, leaning against a wall with a sigh. "As soon as we take that Gem, he is going to find out. We need to bolt as soon as we steal it. Steal the gem, lie low in ton, then leave after the party."
Heart thought for a moment, "Not necessarily?" Pondering a moment, she said, "What if we put in a replacement?"
"I think I could try and ask someone, and they could certainly get it here I think? You could trade it for the real thing, giving us more of a chance to get out unnoticed?" Heart suggested.
"...What? No. Why would we risk it? We leave after we rob the eye and he'll have no idea what happened."
"They won't be searching for something they think is still there."
"You just said as soon as we take the gem, he'll find out. He wouldn't if he thinks it's still there," Heart mentioned.
"If we can't get a replacement, then we go back to just taking the gem," she added.
"...Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm fine." the snake says after a long sigh.
Heart smiled, and said, "Let me see what I can do, but try to trust me okay?"
"My contact says it'll be here the day before the party, so we have that night to try. If not, we fall back on plan B, and Miss Saffire can run distraction if that's the case," Heart told them after fiddling with the communicator she kept in her pocket.
"...Thisss is going to be quite the exercise..." Fang says.
"Hey if it all goes well, then we should be back with a day to spare, right?" Fitz chimed in.

A few days had passed, and just two days before the big party, the duplicate of the of Eye of Argus would arrive at the motel room the trio were staying in. With everything in hand, it was now up to them to decide when and how to strike tonight.
Heart, holding the package and checking the item inside over, asked, "So what's the plan now?" In a way she was admiring the craftsmanship on the piece before placing it back in. She was careful to wear gloves while handling the item.
Looking up, Fitz waves his PDA lightly, "Well, I've still got my backdoor into the system, so that should help!"
"Who's going in then?" Heart asked.
"Ssssssss..." the snake hisses in thought, "We sneak in at night... Perhaps we can scale the walls..."
"We?" Heart raised a brow, "Should more than one go in? I guess one as a lookout and the other handle the gem?" She then mentioned, "Whoever handles the actual eye needs to remember not to look into it."
"I ah, I should probably handle things from here. I'm not really ah..." Fitz looks down at his Patented Nerd Physique. "fit for sneaky, physical thieving stuff. Tech support is right up my alley!"
"I can go in," Heart mentioned.
"Perhaps I should." the snake says, "Or at least two of us should enter."
"So you and I then?" Heart suggested.
"Indeed." he says. "Just in case inside security is tighter than we expected."
"Fair enough I guess," Heart replied, "I can be the lookout while you swap the gems?"
"Good call." the snake says.
"So when do we strike?" Heart prompted.
"Anytime after 1am, lights out." Fang stated.
Heart gave a nod and handed over the duplicate eye to the snake, "Sounds good to me."
For the time being she was wearing the jersey from her brothers and a pair of leggings. The necklace remained securely fastened, with the gem tucked under her collar.
"If we go in and use Fitz, we can only afford 10 minutes of no security." Fang added.
"Well we know exactly where it is, and if need be, I can try and buy us more time...try..." Heart mentioned.
"We should have enough time though." Fang assured.
Fitz nods, for once actually looking confident.
"Don't worry, if there's one thing I know, it's tech! I'll have eyes on you the whole time. Or, uh, eyes...off you?" He pauses, suddenly lost. "...I, I'll make sure security doesn't catch you."(edited)
"I have faith in you," Heart replied with a smile on her beak.

With that, the crew set out late in the night to their target. Reaching the Bucksly mansion, the van would pull up just a little away from the property. The moon, a waning crescent, was high in the sky with just a few clouds covering the starlight. From their vantage point, they could see the lights were mostly off in the mansion.
Heart would have changed into attire via her gem to fit the need for stealth.
With a burgundy tank top with a tied piece over her chest, dark bunched up pants, black stockings and gloves. At her hip was a burgundy sash for utility uses.
The snake went for an all black outfit, deciding to keep the suit at home. And had a ski mask, just in case something happened during the robbery.
Fiddling with a small ear piece, Fitz begins a quick equipment check, "This is 'chill', checking in, over."
"Voice here," Heart replied while adjusting hers.
"Suit. Check."
"Nocturne set to go it seems?" Heart asked.
"I guess once the power is out, we'll head in?" Heart suggested as they approached the south side. She kept her voice low, "We could scale up to the window of the library?"
"Good call." Fang replied.
Fitz assured, "I'll take out the security as soon as you get to the window, you'll only have ten minutes, so make it count!"
"Got it," Heart said after taking a quick breath.
"Good..." Fang responded.
Both of them were able to avoid detection as they headed to the south side of the large house.
Taking another quiet breath, she looked up and whispered into the mic, "We're under the library window."
With a nod, Fitz began to access the proper systems, "Cutting power in 3...2...1! Go!" He hits enter just as he finishes, cutting out security. And with the simple click of a button, the power went out. The window of opportunity was open now.
"Let's go then?" Heart whispered as she began climbing up.
"Of course." the snake says, reaching to his side and drawing a small grappling gun. He aimed it and fired at the roof, using it to help him climb.
Heart began scaling the wall, finding places in the brick to find a grip. Her gloved fingertips made decent purchases in the molding of the house.
The two of them ascended the side of the building like spiders, quickly reaching the second story with no issue. Reaching the window, the lights were out... and in the dim moon light, they could see the Eye of Argus in it's display.
"Do you have lock picks?" Heart asked quietly.
"Also, don't look into the eye for long," she repeated firmly.
"Yes. Keep an eye on the door." the snake says as he kneels before the lock, making a point not to look at the stone.
Heart gave a nod before he turned towards the lock, and went to peek out into the hallway, but did not poke her full head out the door. She used the sash at her hip to tie around her beak to mask part of her face now.(edited)
As Heart peeked through the door, she could see one of the guards heading down the hall, to where the security room was, "Hey! Murphy! Something going on wit da powah?!"
Meanwhile, Fang, ever so carefully, was finagling the lock to the display. With the softest click, the glass case opened, and the Eye was now in his grasp. As he looked at it, it's swirling iris became more pronounced with the barrier gone...
Despite the temptation though, the snake was able to pull his gaze away from it.
Heart didn't move outside the door, but whispered to Fang, "There's a guard down the hall."
He tore his gaze from the stone, "Right... Guard." he says, switching the fake stone in the bag for the real one, placing the fake in the case and relocking it.
Heart backed away from the door at the soft sound of the lock, whispering, "Ready then?"
"Yes... Back down." he says, standing and making his way to the window.
"Everything going alright? Remember, you've only got so much time. Over" Fitz checks in.
Heart whispered while making her way to the window, "Heading back down now."
She began to climb out and back down.
And so, the two were able to descend back to the ground, and with the power out and security focused on that issue, they were able to rush to the van unnoticed.
Heart crept into the side of the van, a smile hidden under her scarf as she did. Fang got in through the back doors. "Drive!" he hissed.
"Yessss!" Fitz cheered a quietly as he could. "Mission sussesful! Woo!...Now let's get out of here now very fast!"
Slamming on the gas, Fitz headed back to the motel.
Heart about jumped from the sudden movement and hissing command, but watched contently as they left the mansion behind him, "And Hermes snuck away while the giant slept on?"
The snake panted a bit. "...I suppose he did." Fang says, "Hopefully your friend isn't smart enough to see it's a fake."
"He's not...and he's not..." Heart shuddered at the idea of calling that thick headed brat a friend of any sort.
With that, the trio drove off into the night, loot in hand.
Heart, while they drove up to the motel, could be noticed by the two using the communicator from before with a smile on her face. Then she slipped it back into her pocket without a word.
A few days would pass, and soon, after one flight back to the Big Easy, they would find themselves back at the club where they met with Stryx... who was now awaiting for them in the front. A limosuine sat at the doors, and as he saw them approach, he opened the back, "Glad to see you have returned. Madame knows that you've done well, and she wishes to see you all in person. Take a seat, the ride won't take long."
Heart clasped the gem hanging just under her collar bone, took a breath, and took her seat.
"Well... interesting." the snake says, back in his suit as he approached the limousine, "Please tell me we won't be blindfolded during our trip."
Fitz smiled lightly, actually kind of proud of what they'd accomplished. And a little concerned about that pride, having come from committing a felony and took his seat.
A slight smirk crossed the raptor's beak, as he shook his head. "Not at all good sir. Wouldn't want to make the ride uncomfortable." As they took their seats, the would find the inside was fitted with luxury in mind. Plush leather seats, velvet carpeted floor, and even a cooler with various drinks sitting inside, from high end champagne and wine, to the commonplace Pep soda. Once they were settled in, Stryx sat behind the wheel, and drove off. Soon, they would find that they were being taken out of the city, onto roads that lead into the deep, dark bayous.
Fingers tapping against each other, Fitz tried to fill the silence, "Soooo, that went well, right! No screw ups!"
Heart watched from the window, still grasping the sapphire hanging from the gold chain around her neck. Her thumb brushing over it's surface. She smiled at her companion, "I'd say so."
"It actually went quite well..." the snake says, peeking in the cooler and getting the nonalcoholic champagne. "Oohh... Very lovely..."
Heart didn't reach for a drink, she simply watched the changing scenery and listened to the others.
While the others were either enthralled by the show of wealth in their ride, or simply enjoying the ride... Heart would notice a control in the handrest for what seemed to be the main seat, larger than the rest. As well as that, there appeared to be a monitor, currently folded up in the ceiling of the ride.
Fitz grabbed and gently nursed a soda, smiling lightly.
Heart would point it out to the other two by nudging both of them quietly.
"...Eh, at this point, seem about right." Fitz tried to whisper out the side of his mouth.
"What is that for? Some sort of television?" Heart asked curiously.
Peaking back for a moment via the rearview mirror, Stryx replied. "You would be correct. I would advise not fiddling with it though, it may have some details in regards to Madam's private affairs."
"Fair enough, I was more so curious about the news I guess," Heart replied politely.
The snake felt the urge of temptation, but poured himself a glass of champagne and sipped it.
After an hour's drive through the dark swamps, with the songs of frogs and birds filling the night, in the distance, on a hill in the middle of the bayou, a grand and imposing mansion stood. Antebellum in design, the great estate loomed over the dank flooded woodlands, lights shining from the windows. As the limo pulled up, they were now in before the massive front doors. Stepping out, Stryx opened the door for them, and gesturing for each to step out.
"...Well, our employer likes their privacy..." the snake says as he slowly steps out of the car.
"Ooohh boy..." Fitz commented.
Heart stepped out, dressed in the attire she'd worn when first meeting the owl so to appear well kept. Though she deeply missed her jersey at the moment. She looked around, trying to get an idea direction wise.

Approaching the doors, Stryx opened them up for the trio, revealing the foyer of the massive manor. As they came in, they could see that the insides were just as ornate and opulent. Velvet carpets, gilded walls adorned with paintings of beautiful landscapes, and statues of marble, the trappings of one of wealth and excess. And before them, was a grand staircase, heading up to the floors above, the handrails curling and coated with gold.
At the pinnacle of the stairs, stood the matron of the manor. The first thing one would notice was her considerable presence, a woman of generous proportions. Coating her large figure was a thick covering of long alabaster white fur, emphasized by her fluffy tail draped over her shoulders. Blonde locks encircled her face, from which a pair of icy blue eyes looked over the group before her. Dressed in a flowing red gown, she approached her guests. As she descended the stairs, it appeared as if she was floating down, betrayed only by the slight bounce of her heavy frame. Placing a hand to her chest, she gave a slight smile as she drew near.
"Bonsoir, je vous attendais."
"Introducing Madame Lucille Lamure DeVal." The owl stated, as he bowed to the snow furred feline.
"H-hello!" Fitz said, nervous as always.
Heart gave a polite bow, not thinking of what else to do in this situation, "Uh...greetings Madame?"
Fang was surprised that this was their benefactor, and in such an interesting location. He gave a bow. "Charmed to meet you."
Reaching the bottom of the stairs, the cat drew closer to the three, a warm smile across her face. Clasping her plum red gloved hands together, she responded. "It is certainly a pleasure to finally met y'all! Terribly sorry Ah wasn't able to last time, Ah had some matters that needed me to tend to. Now, y'all have the Eye with ya?"
"We do, Madame," Heart assured. She then produced the package from within the pack on her back, handing it gingerly to their patron, "Safe and sound."
She had forced herself not to shudder at the last phrase the feline had said.
Taking the package in hand, she opened it, and pulled out the orb. Gazing right into it, she gave a smirk, revealing her sharp teeth, "Mah mah... quite a specimen... no wonder Richard wanted it so badly... a shame about the party thing... poor thing was so humiliated when it was pointed out the one in his possession was a fake."
Heart gave a shrug, unconcerned about how the creep looked in front of others.
Whoah. That was quite a whiplash. French one second, then a slight southern drawl... "Oh? Someone pointed out the swap?" Fang asks, smirking a bit.
"They only had a few days to make the duplicate," Heart commented softly. Turning towards the snake, she gave a nod, placing the orb back in it's container. "Well, it was a good duplicate... but Ah couldn't resist letting him know that all of his boasting was for naught. Oh how his smug smile turned so quickly was just delightful!"
"I wish I could have seen it," Heart smirked.
"Heh, well, glad we could, ah, provide assistance!"
She then thought for a moment, "Wait, were you there?"
"Certainly! He told me about his newest acquisition, and Ah couldn't simply just let it sit in the hands of somebody who couldn't appreciate it properly now, can Ah?" She said, followed by a mirthful laugh. Looking down towards the tapir, she smirked. "Y'all did splendidly! Nobody suspected a thing, and now Richard thinks that he's been duped! Now... of course ya will have ya pay, however... Ah do have a proposition to make! Come now, Ah can have mah kitchen prepare a proper suppah for y'all... unless ya would prefer to talk about it in mah study."
"Either way Madame," Heart kept her tone polite and on the quiet side.
Dr. Fitz raises a hand, as if to speak, only yo be cut off by a sudden rumbling in his stomach, "Ahhh, food would be nice, thank you ver much madem." The Tapir blushed.
"Hmm... I don't see why not. A dinner meeting sounds nice," Fang admitted.
"Excellent! Ah do hope ya don't mind if Ah abstain from partaking. Ah already had something to eat not too long ago." With that, the creole cat would turn around, leading the way through the halls of the mansion, her large fluffy tail swishing behind her. Shortly, they would find themselves seated at a long, impressive table, with their host at the head. Before them were laid out platters of rich and decadent cuisine, some of which Fang would recognize as being... rather expensive to say the least. Taking a sip from her glass of wine, Lucille leaned forward. "Ah must say again, it is a delight to have y'all here! Ah've read up on each one of ya, and Ah must say, y'all are quite the impressive assortment."
Heart wondered just what she had heard about her. She swallowed her concern for the moment and asked, "Is that so?"
Fitz commented quickly, "...I would just like to say, Mr. Hoonkenstien agreed with the experiments and I am doing all I can to reverse the effects." "...Speaking of, I find your network... Very effective." the cobra says.
"Certainly, and thank ya hun! When ya been in the game as long as Ah have, ya pick up connections. That said, as Ah mentioned, ya each will be paid what was offered before... but, Ah have an offer. If ya would be so inclined, Ah would wish for ya to help me... expand mah collection." As she spoke, Stryx came forth and refilled her glass of wine. "Ya have quite the assortment of talents, and with them Ah'm certain ya will be able to procure what Ah need. In return, Ah will have ya on mah payroll, provide a home for y'all here... and help ya with each of ya personal desires... Does that sound interesting to y'all?"
"...For Hoonkenstien." Fitz whispered to themselves, working up their nerve and determination. "I...I'll accept."
Heart thought of the letter sent to her, thinking it over now that it was being said. She knew that's why she'd come. She knew what her answer should be. If she didn't get control of her magic, and she was with him...next time they might not get out...and he would be... Shakily, she took in the words, grasped the sapphire in her hand again, and said, "I have to do this."
"...Okay, before I also bite into this forbidden fruit." Fang says, "I have a very important question. You say you can help us with our desires... Why would you do so? Especially if achieving those desires might mean we are less inclined to continue working for you?"
"Simple really..." She said, before taking another sip of the crimson fluid in her glass. "Y'all are people with a specific need, and Ah just happen to be able to fulfill them... and in return, ya have the talents Ah need to fulfill what Ah desire. Tit for tat as they say. If ya are not inclined to work for me any further, ya are free to leave at any time, no strings attached."
"So when I feel I can control my magic better, I can just go home?" Heart asked softly.
"If ya wish so, ya are free as a bird. However, if ya do leave, well... Ah suppose there is one string... by no circumstance will ya talk about working for me in any regards, and in return, there will be no ties leading from me to y'all."
"Of course," Heart replied. She still felt a bit sheepish around this woman, but was gradually finding her confidence again. Thinking of why she was there seemed to help.
As they spoke, Fang would feel something brush up against his leg under the table. Fang tried not to move, but he was alerted. He tried to slowly shift his gaze under the table.
Under the table, hidden by the sheets, was a young white furred feline, looking to be no more than seven. Dressed in what looked like a witch costume for Halloween complete with pointy hat, with a plush toad in one arm, she looked up at the snake with her emerald green eyes gone wide. Grimacing, the young girl placed a finger to her lips, in hopes that the serpent would understand the gesture.
The snake blinked in surprise, then slowly moved to sit back up, pretending to not notice the small girl. This was... a unique situation. To be perfectly honest, he didn't believe a lot of this schtik. She had every reason to keep them and no reason to let them go. And if her network was so vast, she could probably hire more than just thieves. "...With an offer like that, how can I refuse?" he asks, offering a smile. They were in a den with a lion all right...
Heart could only imagine how her brothers would feel with her doing this...but...there had been recent events in her life that had altered some of her perspective on things. She wanted to be able to help that someone, and couldn't as she was currently...However, that someone was also her one thread if something were to happen. That, surprisingly, brought her some comfort.
Fitz did all he could to stay calm, trying to focus on fixing his mista-setbacks, and funding his absolute necessary and in no way dangerous research.
"So it's agreed! How splendid! Now, Ah will have a place ready for you two gentlemen by morning in the nearby town, however, if ya don't mind, ya can stay the night in one of mah guest rooms..." With that, she turned towards Heart. "However, a young lady such as yaself shouldn't be be all by her lonesome. Ah have a spare room ready for ya to make ya own, if ya so desire. Meanwhile... anyone up for dessert?"
Suddenly, a young voice called from under the table. "Dessert?! I am! ... whoops..."
Heart was about to answer when the small voice caught her attention. Looking under the table she offered a smile, "Hello there?"
Without thinking, she crouched down on hr knees to be at eye level.
The kitten, looking up at the duck, sat on her knees, a look of utter dread crossed her face. Lucille, with an eye twitching, rapped her fingers upon the table. "Ah certainly hope there isn't a certain child under the table up past her bedtime snooping on her aunty's very important meeting..."
Heart stifled a giggle and said, "Oh dear..." She couldn't help but be reminded of when Wildwing caught her and Nosedive up late in a similar manner.
She then looked up at Lucille, "Are you sure I can stay here? I wouldn't want to impose?"
"Think nothing of it, deary... but first... if a certain somebody isn't heading back to their room by the time Ah get to three, they will be in far more trouble than they already are... one.. tw-" Before the matron of the house could finish the word, the child bolted out from under the table, rushing to the door and running off with her tail trailing behind her. "... Stryx, be a dear and remind Samantha there will be no running in the house."