In a backroom somewhere in the House of Cards, Captain Pyre was waiting in a comfy beast-skin chair. The fur was thick, with a brown and cream pattern; he imagined it was made from several scavenger tier beasts. Quite an ostentatious display of wealth. He was used to being treated well by other factions, but ultimately, they were still the competition. The Salamanders were just the biggest fish in the pond. Or one of anyway. In truth, there were two people that no one, not even the faction leaders themselves, could touch. Still, the Salamanders name demanded respect, something he was counting on. That didn't mean he could go around doing whatever he felt like, he was just a commander of the local division after all. More than likely, his Major would not approve of his current course of action, but for once, he would have to disregard the good of his company and pursue a path that was demanded by a greater sense of loyalty.
He spotted a crystal ash tray and picked it up. It was full of cheap, synthetic cigarette butts and he began to wonder how useful his family ability would be for a smoker. Family? Did he really feel that way? No, he had been adopted by the faction, agreeing to a marriage with a bride from one of its branches, even taking the name as was customary, but he was not really a part of the family. His wife, maybe, but even she had a tenuous connection to the sprawling mass of people that made up the great Salamanders, one of the original and oldest clans.
As the door opened, he put aside such thoughts.
"Pyre, I believe?"
He had not told anyone his name but was unsurprised that they had known. He stood up and held out his hand. "Call me George," he said.
"To what do we owe the honour?"
"I had a few questions I was hoping to ask, and someone kindly pointed me in your direction."
"Ask away, we're always happy to help our fellow comrades."
The words sounded false and there were some subtle undertones a more astute person could pick up on, but the captain was a straightforward man.
"I'd like to know what you can tell me about a woman by the name of Sadie Hutchinson."
His eyes twitched. "And why, might I ask?"
"Do I need to give a reason?"
Although his speech was straightforward, Jack had been unable to ascertain the information he really wanted from the question, so he took a similar approach and outright asked what he wanted to know: "Is this a personal request, or something relating to faction business?"
Although Pyre had been looking to get some information, he had been hoping they would not ask too many questions in return, but that had been a little naive.
"A personal matter," he said.
"Oh, I see," he said smiling. "Well, I'm afraid she no longer works here. Hasn't for weeks now. But there are plenty of other younger waitresses that would be interested to hear a few war stories, I'm sure." He smiled at the insinuation.
"Could you tell me when she was last here?"
"I suppose I could. But first, could you tell me what this is about?"
Pyre paused for a second, wondering how much he should give away. "I have called her many times these past couple of weeks, but she's not picking up. The number doesn't even ring anymore."
"Maybe she has changed phones?" replied Jack. "Besides, I was under the impression you were a married man. Best not to get too involved with cocktail waitresses if you ask me."
"When was she last here?" he asked again.
"Look, I was trying to be nice, but maybe she's just not interested. You should learn to let things slide. I heard she was involved with a rough crowd."
"What crowd might that be?" he asked, suddenly interested.
Jack had mentioned it to put him off, but the persistent bald-headed man just dug his heels in further.
"A word of advice… just let it go."
"I can't," he replied.
"Why?"
"What faction is involved?" he asked, making no attempt at courtesy.
"I'm sorry, but do you know who we work for? You can't just come in here and demand whatever you like from us. Sure, your faction is important, but not you personally. Besides, what's the pillar without the base?" he smiled again.
It was all the confirmation he needed. A shudder went down his spine. So, they were involved after all.
"I'm sorry, I've had a few too many drinks. If you see her, tell her George was looking for her."
Jack didn't say anything at first, still deeply offended by how he had been treated.
"Of course," he replied eventually, a fake smile on his lips.