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[SS] Hazy Silhouette
+4
Sir Alexander Beathen
Erin Lightheart
Albrekka Starbright
Tougane Masaru
8 posters
Page 9 of 17
Page 9 of 17 • 1 ... 6 ... 8, 9, 10 ... 13 ... 17
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Despite everything, there was no hint of regret on Moore's face. Inducing Longroad to cut ties with them himself was not something that he had expected to happen when he'd begun speaking. He was as of yet unsure whether this would be categorized as pleasant or not, but a miscalculation is a miscalculation no matter how you organize it. The one thing he was sure of at this point was that one way or another, they really didn't get along. It was almost as if he were saying it couldn't be helped.
On the surface, that's all one could tell of Moore's reaction.
"Thanks, Beathen," he said as he put a hand on the young knight's shoulder, to show his appreciation. He'd shown a troubled face in response to the young girl's outburst like he didn't know what to say to it, so when his subordinate indicated that his healing had proceeded to a passable point, he responded to that instead as if running away.
«Excuse us. I hope we are not too late. The way out here was a rather tough one, yet we tried our most to hurry,» said the newcomers, as if saying he had already bought all the time he'd needed. As Moore turned to see them, a relief completely contrary in essence to the girl's sprung up in his heart.
It would be a lie to say he didn't have mixed feelings about the nuns before him immediately after his final spat with Longroad, but relief was still his primary emotion. After all, he knew very well that there were few better in handling cases like the one he had on his hands than the ones before him. He would not have to handle it with his unreliable hands like he'd feared he might in the worst scenario.
Before following Beathen to speak with the nuns, Moore first fiddled with the inside his armor. Activating the communications with the knights who had not yet followed them here. He was originally going to call them here to help haul the injured somewhere more suitable, but the way Beathen's conversation was going it seemed they'd be fulfilling another purpose.
That done, he stood and, stretching his newly healed body, joined their chat. "I see, you have my gratitude. If you hadn't come, I'm afraid we would have ended up trying to take your job, out of a lack of options. As I'm sure you can see, I doubt it would have ended well for anyone involved." If nothing else, he would respect Longroad for following through on taking care of the aftermath here.
"Beathen, I've called Matthewson, York, Sanson, and Wortham here. When they arrive, take them and escort our benefactors to their destination. We've come this far, so we should follow through to the end." Like him. "After that, you can have some free time to rest. The privilege of receiving these ladies' full course belongs to these kids, not us uncles, so we'll still be out of commission for a while as we recover mentally."
"Ah, I hope we're not imposing," he somewhat rushedly tacked on at the end with an apologetic bow of the head.
Once the other four arrived and the nuns' kindnesses were completed, Moore took his formerly injured but still tired subordinates with him and left. He trusted that Beathen would be able to complete this task without issue; aside from Moore, he was the one with the most qualities of a leader in the group. Even including Moore, he most likely won only in experience. It was simply convenient that he happened to be the least injured, though he was sure the boy needed a rest as much as any of them.
On his way out, he glanced at the girl, and remembered the way she'd looked at the children she'd guarded in response to the nun's words. It took everything he had not to give a playful 'I told you so' as he left, and he was sure it showed just a little. But in the end his silence was maintained.
He was at least that mature, after all.
On the surface, that's all one could tell of Moore's reaction.
"Thanks, Beathen," he said as he put a hand on the young knight's shoulder, to show his appreciation. He'd shown a troubled face in response to the young girl's outburst like he didn't know what to say to it, so when his subordinate indicated that his healing had proceeded to a passable point, he responded to that instead as if running away.
«Excuse us. I hope we are not too late. The way out here was a rather tough one, yet we tried our most to hurry,» said the newcomers, as if saying he had already bought all the time he'd needed. As Moore turned to see them, a relief completely contrary in essence to the girl's sprung up in his heart.
It would be a lie to say he didn't have mixed feelings about the nuns before him immediately after his final spat with Longroad, but relief was still his primary emotion. After all, he knew very well that there were few better in handling cases like the one he had on his hands than the ones before him. He would not have to handle it with his unreliable hands like he'd feared he might in the worst scenario.
Before following Beathen to speak with the nuns, Moore first fiddled with the inside his armor. Activating the communications with the knights who had not yet followed them here. He was originally going to call them here to help haul the injured somewhere more suitable, but the way Beathen's conversation was going it seemed they'd be fulfilling another purpose.
That done, he stood and, stretching his newly healed body, joined their chat. "I see, you have my gratitude. If you hadn't come, I'm afraid we would have ended up trying to take your job, out of a lack of options. As I'm sure you can see, I doubt it would have ended well for anyone involved." If nothing else, he would respect Longroad for following through on taking care of the aftermath here.
"Beathen, I've called Matthewson, York, Sanson, and Wortham here. When they arrive, take them and escort our benefactors to their destination. We've come this far, so we should follow through to the end." Like him. "After that, you can have some free time to rest. The privilege of receiving these ladies' full course belongs to these kids, not us uncles, so we'll still be out of commission for a while as we recover mentally."
"Ah, I hope we're not imposing," he somewhat rushedly tacked on at the end with an apologetic bow of the head.
Once the other four arrived and the nuns' kindnesses were completed, Moore took his formerly injured but still tired subordinates with him and left. He trusted that Beathen would be able to complete this task without issue; aside from Moore, he was the one with the most qualities of a leader in the group. Even including Moore, he most likely won only in experience. It was simply convenient that he happened to be the least injured, though he was sure the boy needed a rest as much as any of them.
On his way out, he glanced at the girl, and remembered the way she'd looked at the children she'd guarded in response to the nun's words. It took everything he had not to give a playful 'I told you so' as he left, and he was sure it showed just a little. But in the end his silence was maintained.
He was at least that mature, after all.
_________________
Lean Mean Occasionally-Evaluating Machine
• [Arc IV] Between the Lines • [SS] Hazy Silhouette • [SS] Unknown Magnitude Serial Catastrophe • [SS] Vagrant By Any Other Name: A Match Made in Hell •
Ideas to a good home!
Unused Idea Board
• [Arc IV] Between the Lines • [SS] Hazy Silhouette • [SS] Unknown Magnitude Serial Catastrophe • [SS] Vagrant By Any Other Name: A Match Made in Hell •
Ideas to a good home!
Unused Idea Board
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
The details of the files were interesting, but the lack of specific details was expected. The papers were clearly stripped of references of Paul Oldturf. But just because one removes such details, does not mean they're gone; certainly, an imprint of his existence existed, and who he was. Still, there were a lot of papers, and she looked at what she could. She could only hope that such papers wouldn't be swept into the bin the following day.
"Hmm...busy fellow." She simply talked to herself for a split moment. "Seems you had your hands full. Though to be fair, I think everyone's hands are full. Hopefully Mark and the others will be alright." She didn't get much word on the matter, but she had some trust in him. Regardless of whether or not Birdway put up the children as bait, Mark would make sure they were safe. It was a shame that, whatever had happened, people died. Children died. For what? This little mystery needed to be done with, otherwise more people would suffer.
"Hm?" As she sifted through the papers, her eye caught the notepad in the corner. She picked it up and flipped through it, just like the other papers. "Anyway, you implied that you wanted to lead me here earlier, to the girl I came with. I imagine you want something from me? Or maybe Necessarius wants something from me. Not sure, really." She would start some small talk with Longroad as she looked. He was going to ask his questions of course, and Albrekka was more than happy to answer.
"Hmm...busy fellow." She simply talked to herself for a split moment. "Seems you had your hands full. Though to be fair, I think everyone's hands are full. Hopefully Mark and the others will be alright." She didn't get much word on the matter, but she had some trust in him. Regardless of whether or not Birdway put up the children as bait, Mark would make sure they were safe. It was a shame that, whatever had happened, people died. Children died. For what? This little mystery needed to be done with, otherwise more people would suffer.
"Hm?" As she sifted through the papers, her eye caught the notepad in the corner. She picked it up and flipped through it, just like the other papers. "Anyway, you implied that you wanted to lead me here earlier, to the girl I came with. I imagine you want something from me? Or maybe Necessarius wants something from me. Not sure, really." She would start some small talk with Longroad as she looked. He was going to ask his questions of course, and Albrekka was more than happy to answer.
Albrekka Starbright- Caelestis088
- Posts : 113
Join date : 2016-05-31
Age : 35
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
"Listen, Mr. Fours. Nothing is over, nothing is hopeless until the very end."
She rose from her seat, her radiant willpower shining through the residence. Staring down at him not with anger or disappointment, but with warmth and encouragement.
"Your friend may still out there. Is he in trouble? Most likely, if someone is indeed 'after him', as you said. But not yet lost. You alone possess the key to his future, but I won't force you to take that step, if you are truly unwilling. Given that you've shared this information with me already, while denying it to those others, you must know that I'm not out to steal things or sow chaos. Admittedly i'm curious about the object he left with you, but it is up to you to open it up, if that is your choice. Either way, i'd like to look around at the places he frequented to look for clues, presuming the object doesn't lead us someplace else."
Erin Lightheart extended her hand toward the man, for him to take it.
"Will you join me in helping your friend before people here take things too far?"
She rose from her seat, her radiant willpower shining through the residence. Staring down at him not with anger or disappointment, but with warmth and encouragement.
"Your friend may still out there. Is he in trouble? Most likely, if someone is indeed 'after him', as you said. But not yet lost. You alone possess the key to his future, but I won't force you to take that step, if you are truly unwilling. Given that you've shared this information with me already, while denying it to those others, you must know that I'm not out to steal things or sow chaos. Admittedly i'm curious about the object he left with you, but it is up to you to open it up, if that is your choice. Either way, i'd like to look around at the places he frequented to look for clues, presuming the object doesn't lead us someplace else."
Erin Lightheart extended her hand toward the man, for him to take it.
"Will you join me in helping your friend before people here take things too far?"
Erin Lightheart- Primiceriatus999
- Posts : 167
Join date : 2016-05-14
Location : London, England / Caernarfon, Wales
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
«Well, that’s what happens when you try to organise a big festival. The trouble makers are everywhere and they really wanna challenge you. So you gotta deal with them without them harming the paying guests. Thankfully my helpers aren’t just here for their adorable cuteness.»
A disorderly handwriting born from over extensive hurry depicting words and numbers somehow aligning to sentences. While hard to read it would reveal a certain amount of information when finally decrypted: Bullet points. Names. Dates. Times. Addresses. Thoughts. All in all case notes.
Did the girl finally find a good lead or was it just another loose end?
Whichever it was, her words would be caught onto.
«That’s correct. I had her bring you here. Not for Necessarius, though. You could call this personal if you want to. Then again it’s a bit roundabout to put it that way, too. So probably an in-between thing?»
Suddenly the voice didn’t have to reach her from the room’s other end, but right from behind. Close enough that if she tilted her head again, she’d catch Longroad leaning right over her shoulder, his eyes still buried by his messy yet fluffy bangs, obviously expressing something along the lines of «found something?» in silence.
«You could say, I’m curious. Hearing about someone hanging out with the Dawn-Coloured Sunlight, hell, Birdway of all people, I couldn’t help but look into this Albrekka Starbright. In the end what I found was hollow. An advisor or something from the far end of England. More the spiritual kind, low key, not meaningful at all. There was so little to dig up and yet she somehow stood at the centre of the show. Why?»
There was his laid back tone, yet with some dark twist buried within. Something was odd, threatening or even maniacal. It was hard to tell with the illusive kind of person he was.
«But that isn’t all, you know. When I read up on you, asked around and monitored you I noticed something that moved outside the usual spectrum. It isn’t as strong as with that girl, but I can tell you have something fairly unique about you. Your mind is of the intriguing kind and most certainly I need an intriguing mind. Whitby needs one.»
The sinister rose from behind his facade; an eye became visible from within the shadows, its horrifyingly sharp glance digging straight into her.
«You wanna know about Paul Oldturf, right?»
There was no need to express it in any words, did his demeanour make the current conditions clearer than anything: Her choice right now would block all paths of return.
That girl was many times younger than he ever felt he was. The difference in life time experience was on a scale as high as it could be. He had seen and experienced things she had yet to have in front of her. Looking around the small kitchen space he could see the many photos spread around. All those people he had met in his lifetime. Their faces telling their stories to him once again. He hadn’t been on a single of them, yet he could recall what he’d been like the time they had met. He could recall the stories he had experienced through meeting them. He recalled the many experiences, the many teachings, that history. He was a man grown through his lifetime. A man that had thought he’d seen anything he ever wanted. A man that thought he knew the world’s workings.
And yet her words opened a path he had never encountered before.
«I haven’t seen Silas in the longest time. While I do feel like he is a close friend to me, I wonder what he thinks of me. I can’t know and I can’t find out the way things are right now. Would it be preposterous of me to meddle with his business? Most likely. Would it be something he would hate me for? Probably. Is there anything to gain from this for me? Not at all. Is there someone cut out better for this kind of thing. Yes, indeed.»
A smile formed on his lips as his eyes collided with those of the detective girl.
«Yet, what kind of man would I be if I rejected the chance to still try. It is for my dear friend’s sake after all.»
With all hesitation thrown overboard his wrinkled hand grabbed her’s, pressing it with the strength of overflowing youth.
«Let’s go.»
Thus their deal had been sealed.
A disorderly handwriting born from over extensive hurry depicting words and numbers somehow aligning to sentences. While hard to read it would reveal a certain amount of information when finally decrypted: Bullet points. Names. Dates. Times. Addresses. Thoughts. All in all case notes.
Did the girl finally find a good lead or was it just another loose end?
Whichever it was, her words would be caught onto.
«That’s correct. I had her bring you here. Not for Necessarius, though. You could call this personal if you want to. Then again it’s a bit roundabout to put it that way, too. So probably an in-between thing?»
Suddenly the voice didn’t have to reach her from the room’s other end, but right from behind. Close enough that if she tilted her head again, she’d catch Longroad leaning right over her shoulder, his eyes still buried by his messy yet fluffy bangs, obviously expressing something along the lines of «found something?» in silence.
«You could say, I’m curious. Hearing about someone hanging out with the Dawn-Coloured Sunlight, hell, Birdway of all people, I couldn’t help but look into this Albrekka Starbright. In the end what I found was hollow. An advisor or something from the far end of England. More the spiritual kind, low key, not meaningful at all. There was so little to dig up and yet she somehow stood at the centre of the show. Why?»
There was his laid back tone, yet with some dark twist buried within. Something was odd, threatening or even maniacal. It was hard to tell with the illusive kind of person he was.
«But that isn’t all, you know. When I read up on you, asked around and monitored you I noticed something that moved outside the usual spectrum. It isn’t as strong as with that girl, but I can tell you have something fairly unique about you. Your mind is of the intriguing kind and most certainly I need an intriguing mind. Whitby needs one.»
The sinister rose from behind his facade; an eye became visible from within the shadows, its horrifyingly sharp glance digging straight into her.
«You wanna know about Paul Oldturf, right?»
There was no need to express it in any words, did his demeanour make the current conditions clearer than anything: Her choice right now would block all paths of return.
⭐︎☆✩☆⭐︎
That girl was many times younger than he ever felt he was. The difference in life time experience was on a scale as high as it could be. He had seen and experienced things she had yet to have in front of her. Looking around the small kitchen space he could see the many photos spread around. All those people he had met in his lifetime. Their faces telling their stories to him once again. He hadn’t been on a single of them, yet he could recall what he’d been like the time they had met. He could recall the stories he had experienced through meeting them. He recalled the many experiences, the many teachings, that history. He was a man grown through his lifetime. A man that had thought he’d seen anything he ever wanted. A man that thought he knew the world’s workings.
And yet her words opened a path he had never encountered before.
«I haven’t seen Silas in the longest time. While I do feel like he is a close friend to me, I wonder what he thinks of me. I can’t know and I can’t find out the way things are right now. Would it be preposterous of me to meddle with his business? Most likely. Would it be something he would hate me for? Probably. Is there anything to gain from this for me? Not at all. Is there someone cut out better for this kind of thing. Yes, indeed.»
A smile formed on his lips as his eyes collided with those of the detective girl.
«Yet, what kind of man would I be if I rejected the chance to still try. It is for my dear friend’s sake after all.»
With all hesitation thrown overboard his wrinkled hand grabbed her’s, pressing it with the strength of overflowing youth.
«Let’s go.»
Thus their deal had been sealed.
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
"For an indirect reason, yes." It was only natural that Longroad would attempt to read over her shoulder; the notepad was curious, and if anything, perhaps it had something of interest. At this point that wasn't clear, though.
"You could say that Paul was the closest person to the truth. The fact that the vampire chose him is a key point here. It is human nature to leave even the most miniscule of clues when one's mind is focused. That's what I'm counting on. Though, it seems that someone has already begun cleanup duty in terms of information. I expected that from your group, anyway, while also trying to figure out what is going on. But there are enough gaps here to form a story I can work with, regardless of a direct line to the truth."
With that, she felt that glare from Longroad. He was certainly an odd character himself, seemingly finding opportune moments to place pressure on those around him. What was he trying to force? "In terms of some sort of alliance, I would relax. I'm practically the ally of anyone here who wants to know what is going on. Since you want to know that is a given. My interaction with Dawn-Colored Sunlight was more accidental than anything, as I was helping Mark find Birdway. He seems to be a good guy at least, hence my trust. And yes, if they want to know the truth, I will also help them, naturally."
With that, she continued reading the notebook, allowing Longroad to look as well. What exactly was the punchline to this, if anything?
"You could say that Paul was the closest person to the truth. The fact that the vampire chose him is a key point here. It is human nature to leave even the most miniscule of clues when one's mind is focused. That's what I'm counting on. Though, it seems that someone has already begun cleanup duty in terms of information. I expected that from your group, anyway, while also trying to figure out what is going on. But there are enough gaps here to form a story I can work with, regardless of a direct line to the truth."
With that, she felt that glare from Longroad. He was certainly an odd character himself, seemingly finding opportune moments to place pressure on those around him. What was he trying to force? "In terms of some sort of alliance, I would relax. I'm practically the ally of anyone here who wants to know what is going on. Since you want to know that is a given. My interaction with Dawn-Colored Sunlight was more accidental than anything, as I was helping Mark find Birdway. He seems to be a good guy at least, hence my trust. And yes, if they want to know the truth, I will also help them, naturally."
With that, she continued reading the notebook, allowing Longroad to look as well. What exactly was the punchline to this, if anything?
Albrekka Starbright- Caelestis088
- Posts : 113
Join date : 2016-05-31
Age : 35
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
With their alliance forged and now tempered, the two detectives now faced an uncertain future, but a future nonetheless. A future they could have some sort of say in. The madness surrounding this town and its rumours had to be put to a peaceful end. Nobody else had to die, nobody else had to suffer thanks to pursuit of power and the unknown. Like moths to a flame, so many people gathered here as if caught in a trance, but the problem was that many of these moths were made of gunpowder. Whoever or whatever was at work here, this state of affairs was probably either vital to the plan, or at least tolerable enough not to act against it.
"Glad to have you, partner. First order of business is finding out what object he left with you. I presume you stored it away somewhere, but if you'd rather leave it for now, that's fine. There's plenty of places to check first...do you know where the most likely place is for him to be?"
Planning out a strategy when malevolent actors were everywhere would be hard. They had to act fast and decisively before anyone realized they were there unraveling things. In fact, their success depended on having nobody new even noticing they were a force acting within the town at all.
"Glad to have you, partner. First order of business is finding out what object he left with you. I presume you stored it away somewhere, but if you'd rather leave it for now, that's fine. There's plenty of places to check first...do you know where the most likely place is for him to be?"
Planning out a strategy when malevolent actors were everywhere would be hard. They had to act fast and decisively before anyone realized they were there unraveling things. In fact, their success depended on having nobody new even noticing they were a force acting within the town at all.
Erin Lightheart- Primiceriatus999
- Posts : 167
Join date : 2016-05-14
Location : London, England / Caernarfon, Wales
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Between the lines 2
Heavy breathing.
Sweat dripping.
Pain stinging.
Moonlight shining.
His eye twitched as it was hit by the brightness through a slit in the roof.
He was glad it wasn’t the sun, yet under his current condition any sort of light would have been an annoyance. After all besides what got in through that minuscule slit right above the entire space was enveloped in black darkness.
It was dark. Entirely. All around. Left, right, up, down. As though there was nothing in existence besides it, the darkness had spread everywhere. And yet he could tell this wasn’t hell or death. It was life. That small slit’s view was proof enough.
As he was breathing he could feel his chest raise and fall, rhythmically, orderly.
He was calm.
There was not a hint of nervousness on him.
Of course.
He wasn’t the type to grow nervous just like that.
No matter how cruel the pain, no matter how heavy the losses, no matter how serious the situation. All he’d do would always be the same. Smile like the devil while keeping up good countenance.
『So you are saying that everything is going according to the plan?』
A foreign voice was speaking monotonously from the darkness.
«Yes. The Anglican Church has broken off their alliance with the Knights of England. The Roman Catholic Church is on the move. That person is still doing their work. The police officer is dead. Our presence has been erased. Everything turned out the exact course you desired. Even exceeding expectations.»
He simply jotted the words into the darkness underlined by his characteristic delight.
«They probably caught onto us, but their rage will blind them. You can tell with the knights rather obviously, however even that Richmond Longroad should have taken a hit.»
『I see. Fine. I won’t mind if they will eventually come after me. They may come if they want to, because by then it will already be too late. I will have obtained the key to my desires.』
He chuckled as he heard that man speak. The transmission may have removed all indication to the original speaker, did it reduce everything to just the monotonous talk akin to that of a doll, but the way the words were chosen was overflowing with his unique traits. That unending egoism.
『Be it the Anglican Church, the Knights of England or whoever, they no longer have the power to prevent things from moving. The time has finally arrived.』
«What about the Dawn-Coloured Sunlight?»
Silence became the sign of a moment’s hesitation.
«My bones can tell, that brat is plotting something. Will it really be wise to just let her slide like this?»
『I can tell what you are attempting to make me order you. But I won’t. You shall return home now and wait for further orders. You have fulfilled your task well, but I cannot allow for you to mess things up now. Any act of lengthening your presence in Whitby will solely result in the plan falling apart. I can’t have that. Do you understand, Ambroise?』
Again he answered with his chuckle. There was no noticeable change in intonation, of course, but he could still tell from the words alone how sharp that man’s tongue had become. He could feel the blade being pressed to his throat. He could feel the ice-cold shiver running down his spine.
However.
«You should know, it might take a while longer before I can return to proper movements, so don’t expect me earlier than humanly possible, please. I ask dearly.»
『One hour.』
The connection cut, he could tell without having any other indicator. That was what their relation had been like. A servant and a master. The positions were obvious just from the way the conversation had gone.
«Sharp as always. I should not disappoint him. But in all honesty, he could at least feel an ounce of mercy. Shouldn’t it be a good foundation for a lord care for those beneath?»
He would have loved to laugh, but as he did he could finally feel the consequences of that come over him. The natural pain.
He gulped, then he did it either way.
In this dark space hidden in an abandoned farm house’s attic the jester lay laughing triumphantly, even though there was a large gaping hole decorating his upper body’s right.
Heavy breathing.
Sweat dripping.
Pain stinging.
Moonlight shining.
His eye twitched as it was hit by the brightness through a slit in the roof.
He was glad it wasn’t the sun, yet under his current condition any sort of light would have been an annoyance. After all besides what got in through that minuscule slit right above the entire space was enveloped in black darkness.
It was dark. Entirely. All around. Left, right, up, down. As though there was nothing in existence besides it, the darkness had spread everywhere. And yet he could tell this wasn’t hell or death. It was life. That small slit’s view was proof enough.
As he was breathing he could feel his chest raise and fall, rhythmically, orderly.
He was calm.
There was not a hint of nervousness on him.
Of course.
He wasn’t the type to grow nervous just like that.
No matter how cruel the pain, no matter how heavy the losses, no matter how serious the situation. All he’d do would always be the same. Smile like the devil while keeping up good countenance.
『So you are saying that everything is going according to the plan?』
A foreign voice was speaking monotonously from the darkness.
«Yes. The Anglican Church has broken off their alliance with the Knights of England. The Roman Catholic Church is on the move. That person is still doing their work. The police officer is dead. Our presence has been erased. Everything turned out the exact course you desired. Even exceeding expectations.»
He simply jotted the words into the darkness underlined by his characteristic delight.
«They probably caught onto us, but their rage will blind them. You can tell with the knights rather obviously, however even that Richmond Longroad should have taken a hit.»
『I see. Fine. I won’t mind if they will eventually come after me. They may come if they want to, because by then it will already be too late. I will have obtained the key to my desires.』
He chuckled as he heard that man speak. The transmission may have removed all indication to the original speaker, did it reduce everything to just the monotonous talk akin to that of a doll, but the way the words were chosen was overflowing with his unique traits. That unending egoism.
『Be it the Anglican Church, the Knights of England or whoever, they no longer have the power to prevent things from moving. The time has finally arrived.』
«What about the Dawn-Coloured Sunlight?»
Silence became the sign of a moment’s hesitation.
«My bones can tell, that brat is plotting something. Will it really be wise to just let her slide like this?»
『I can tell what you are attempting to make me order you. But I won’t. You shall return home now and wait for further orders. You have fulfilled your task well, but I cannot allow for you to mess things up now. Any act of lengthening your presence in Whitby will solely result in the plan falling apart. I can’t have that. Do you understand, Ambroise?』
Again he answered with his chuckle. There was no noticeable change in intonation, of course, but he could still tell from the words alone how sharp that man’s tongue had become. He could feel the blade being pressed to his throat. He could feel the ice-cold shiver running down his spine.
However.
«You should know, it might take a while longer before I can return to proper movements, so don’t expect me earlier than humanly possible, please. I ask dearly.»
『One hour.』
The connection cut, he could tell without having any other indicator. That was what their relation had been like. A servant and a master. The positions were obvious just from the way the conversation had gone.
«Sharp as always. I should not disappoint him. But in all honesty, he could at least feel an ounce of mercy. Shouldn’t it be a good foundation for a lord care for those beneath?»
He would have loved to laugh, but as he did he could finally feel the consequences of that come over him. The natural pain.
He gulped, then he did it either way.
In this dark space hidden in an abandoned farm house’s attic the jester lay laughing triumphantly, even though there was a large gaping hole decorating his upper body’s right.
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Chapter III
The dominos’ collapse playing the melody of the inevitable
Lost_in_Haze.
The dominos’ collapse playing the melody of the inevitable
Lost_in_Haze.
February 13, 23:00
The clock struck eleven.
The local church’s bells ringing reverberated across the entire town of Whitby.
It was silent, as if enveloped by peace yet again.
There were still a lot of people out, but no commotion whatsoever.
It was entirely peaceful and tranquil like the sea’s surface.
But of course the surface was only just an illusion.
A group of people was currently wandering toward the town’s empty streets. They had come from outside, following a road through the open field for quite some time. While it would have been in their best interest to take secret paths through the scenery to stay the most hidden, a certain aspect of their group hadn’t allowed them to pick any rough terrain, demanding they chose a more strain-free approach. Thus they had simply followed up by using the plainly asphalted street as their main path.
Fortunately there had neither been cars nor any other kind of encounter on their way.
It was as if the entire world had died.
Or rather, it had been made so it would.
A mobile people clearing field.
While usually Magicians would build them up to keep the ordinary people away from fixed areas, fairy girl Bláthín Neve and the motherly nurse cap wearing Sister Celine had managed to obstruct that predicament for their own gain. Therefore right now their entire group of nuns, children and knights could travel the road without any need for worry about mad drivers and so on.
However of course there was still a slight chance for enemy factions to catch on to them. But that was why the knights had been there to begin with.
That was why everything had been this tense right now.
Well, when ignoring the situation the two factions had been in right now, that is.
However, someone just felt the urge to break that tension that had been ruling over their group for the longest time.
«I just don’t get it. Really now. What? Why? Why would someone go through all of this shit, sacrifice their men and then just run off, acting like they had all of that planned to begin with. I mean, what did he gain from that? Crushing our hearts and stuff? Seriously, that’s laaame!!!»
After what was the most awkward, worry filled and unendurable walk, she simply mouthed her complaints in the most careless manner there was. Not minding the loudness of her voice, the skimpily dressed blonde just jotted out whatever had been on her mind, in her usual childish manner.
«I mean seriously that guy acted like the biggest asshole ever. Like he was some super master planning genius, but why? What is it that he achieved with all that…?»
Going on and on, while the nuns hurriedly covered the ears of the children to protect them from the dwarf’s verbal corruption, her tone assumed a hint of worry slowly, but noticeably.
There was no denying today’s events were a major source of concern to her. She probably had been thinking about it for quite a while, yet only now when they were at the town’s border she’d finally speak up, obviously seeking the input of another. Someone who hopefully held a better understanding of the world than her.
«…what will happen from here on out…?»
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Looking back on it, it's felt like forever since anything had happened. The tension between the two groups was rapidly faltering at best in the young knight's mind. The only thing important to him now was to make sure safety was given to these children. To make sure that where ever they go, no kidnappers follow. You see he had to break this pattern. People were going missing, and each one is less likely to be a coincidence but a planned event. This requires information collecting and watching patterns of their target, putting the Knights aside for the moment the Anglican church was the biggest and most recognisable target.
Sure he trusted the Church would protect the children, but they're a huge organisation and they can never hide every footprint they make here and protecting children wasn't the number one issue on their to-do-list.
However, that viewpoint really depends on the members of the church you talk too and despite his differences with his group and the church. He knows there are innocent and well-meaning people in the organisation despite the ideal view Knights are lead to believe in their own circles. This viewpoint was only strengthened by the chin-wagging of the little girl who was a spy for said organisation.
«…what will happen from here on out…?»
Contining to move with one eye on the road forward and the other on his surroundings he didn't turn towards the girl. But this wasn't him being rude but him being calm and keeping focus. But his attention was large enough to accommodate an honest response.
"They survive." Alexander said briefly after glancing towards the children, this small response was all he gave before leading to a short silence. You see as he was speaking the young knight was cementing the geography of this town in his mind and keeping an eye on any unwanted onlookers. " Once we're gone from this town, these children and everyone else who remain life will go on. The path to this may seem hazy but something has become clear after thinking about what has happened. And so I apologise to you, and I will hope in person to Longroad," Alexander said who didn't waste any time to continue.
"In my hubris, I had failed to notice what was clear provocations and misunderstandings which lead to our groups falling apart back there. I could give you excuses, but then that may make us knights seem a tad human. Nonetheless, I believe the whole point was to shatter the trust between the only two organisations whose coordination can stop them from achieving their goal.... Why didn't I see this sooner?" Alexander said thinking about the various events that marked their confrontation with Ambroise.
Shaking his head briefly the young knight kept moving forward continuing one last time. "What happens now really depends on our decisions, mine, yours and especially theirs. Let's hope the choices we make from now on will outmanoeuvre them. The very least I want to see those children reach somewhere truly safe and that requires breaking the stigma around this town in how people are kidnapped. There is a pattern; there is always a pattern."
Sure he trusted the Church would protect the children, but they're a huge organisation and they can never hide every footprint they make here and protecting children wasn't the number one issue on their to-do-list.
However, that viewpoint really depends on the members of the church you talk too and despite his differences with his group and the church. He knows there are innocent and well-meaning people in the organisation despite the ideal view Knights are lead to believe in their own circles. This viewpoint was only strengthened by the chin-wagging of the little girl who was a spy for said organisation.
«…what will happen from here on out…?»
Contining to move with one eye on the road forward and the other on his surroundings he didn't turn towards the girl. But this wasn't him being rude but him being calm and keeping focus. But his attention was large enough to accommodate an honest response.
"They survive." Alexander said briefly after glancing towards the children, this small response was all he gave before leading to a short silence. You see as he was speaking the young knight was cementing the geography of this town in his mind and keeping an eye on any unwanted onlookers. " Once we're gone from this town, these children and everyone else who remain life will go on. The path to this may seem hazy but something has become clear after thinking about what has happened. And so I apologise to you, and I will hope in person to Longroad," Alexander said who didn't waste any time to continue.
"In my hubris, I had failed to notice what was clear provocations and misunderstandings which lead to our groups falling apart back there. I could give you excuses, but then that may make us knights seem a tad human. Nonetheless, I believe the whole point was to shatter the trust between the only two organisations whose coordination can stop them from achieving their goal.... Why didn't I see this sooner?" Alexander said thinking about the various events that marked their confrontation with Ambroise.
Shaking his head briefly the young knight kept moving forward continuing one last time. "What happens now really depends on our decisions, mine, yours and especially theirs. Let's hope the choices we make from now on will outmanoeuvre them. The very least I want to see those children reach somewhere truly safe and that requires breaking the stigma around this town in how people are kidnapped. There is a pattern; there is always a pattern."
Sir Alexander Beathen- Elisium928
- Posts : 325
Join date : 2015-04-30
Age : 32
Location : England
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Once ago there had been a famous tale taking Whitby as one of its stages. It was a story that was both popular as a novel and movie. Especially the latter probably could be attributed with the heaviest impact, had it been a big hit internationally. Logically spoken such impact on society would offer the commercially oriented a good opportunity to exploit.
Thus dedicated to both the novel and movie a museum was built.
Not one of the serious kind, to honour the legendary writer that had brought it forth or the lore aligned with it, but one to cash in the best: The typical plastic laden kind you’d find anywhere nowadays. Hardly anything beyond your average horror house, it gained its popularity solely through its location at the spot for any vampire enthusiast right next to Transylvania.
The museum had closed for the day.
Even with the public interest in vampires exploding, there had hardly been customers interested in the place, so there hadn’t been any need to try any further. The last two days of extra long hours hadn’t worked out, so why should this one?
However this didn’t mean the place was entirely dead.
The front door may have been locked and the lights turned off. However the backdoor had been unlocked only a few minutes ago, as two figures had entered into the employees only area.
But they were not breaking in. In fact one of the intruders happened to work at this place.
His name was Nate Fours and he was the sporty kind of old man you’d occasionally find anywhere.
His company was the Napoleonic era British Major General detective girl Erin Lightheart.
Equipped with only flashlights the two of them had skipped the secluded areas and immediately descended into the building’s basement that also functioned as a storage room. Following all expectations the place was both dark and messy, yet also with a heavy humidity drenching the air all around, making it hard to breathe. To further the already quite gloomy atmosphere, the contents of the room, all kinds of requisites used for the horror house upstairs, ranging from simple accessories like crosses over to whole statues of monsters, made for the perfect addition.
Nate Fours didn’t mind, though, had all this been part of his everyday life. Besides, they had come here for a reason that prevented them from minding to begin with.
«Back when Silas left it with me, I didn’t know which place to choose to keep it the most safe. He insisted I found the best place, so I truly ran my mind across quite many possibilities. In the end, however, this place appeared the most attractive. I figured nobody would come and search whatever it was here in all of this mess, since nobody would enjoy the idea of doing so to begin with. Even if, it would just be mistaken for another part of the equipment.»
He explained, not minding any obstacles when proceeding through the dark. He was following a preset path, making it obvious that he had a very certain direction in mind. There was no longer any hesitation.
«I figured that eventually he would want to have it back, so I spent my day memorising the exact place where I hid it, occasionally checking if it was still there, when nobody would be around.»
After having headed deep down into the depths of the storage, passing the numerous dreadful shadows, he finally stopped. Before him rested what seemed to be an old, shabby wax statue of the tales’s most frightening monster assuming a stance that would only serve for killing purposes. Once the flashlight’s light met it, its face frighteningly distorted by the years in this humid basement became clearly visible. However not even that did the man mind, as he simply knelt down right in front.
«In case this place would ever be tidied out I reserved this statue as my personal property. Nobody vetoed, of course. Only an old madman would find amusement in such rotten relics of the old days.»
Chuckling as his speech concluded, the man began fumbling around with the platform that served as the statues foot. He seemed to be pulling aside the wooden material, revealing a hidden compartment with something inside. Immediately he’d pull that out as well, placing it on the floor between him and the girl, while still keeping his kneeling position.
«This is it. The item Silas entrusted me with.»
What lay before them was a small box of black wood. About the size of a modern day laptop, sturdy, yet obviously quite old. Surprisingly, though, its age would only be given out by the archaic style of manufacture, not by the state it was in. After all it was oddly well-preserved. The light was reflected by a metal structure. Iron embroideries crafted in odd ways, carrying odd letters and pictures. Figures like angels and words from gospel.
The oddest feature however was a round circle of iron, small in size, standing forth by only a few millimetres. It was as tough the circle was the end of a cylinder reaching into the box’s insides. The other end of a lock?
«Unfortunately…there is neither a proper lock, nor a key to open it with…I believe that there is a trick to it. There must be, but I just can’t figure it out…»
Of course he hadn’t been able to. After all it was not part of his world. He hadn’t been part of its world. That world of the occult. The Magic Side.
The angel embroideries were aligned in odd lines, forming something akin to a cage, no gates, running all across the small item. They rested there in their purity and holiness, yet ordered in such a way that they would pose as guardians. The letters formed words meant to ward of mankind’s evil, scribbled in the holy language.
There were two symbols, the shining metal and the wood. While the first took the role of guarding angels, the latter claimed that of representing pagan belief. Thus whatever was within the box, the seal would keep it closed as long as that barrier of holy purity remained over the demonic evil.
Thus dedicated to both the novel and movie a museum was built.
Not one of the serious kind, to honour the legendary writer that had brought it forth or the lore aligned with it, but one to cash in the best: The typical plastic laden kind you’d find anywhere nowadays. Hardly anything beyond your average horror house, it gained its popularity solely through its location at the spot for any vampire enthusiast right next to Transylvania.
The museum had closed for the day.
Even with the public interest in vampires exploding, there had hardly been customers interested in the place, so there hadn’t been any need to try any further. The last two days of extra long hours hadn’t worked out, so why should this one?
However this didn’t mean the place was entirely dead.
The front door may have been locked and the lights turned off. However the backdoor had been unlocked only a few minutes ago, as two figures had entered into the employees only area.
But they were not breaking in. In fact one of the intruders happened to work at this place.
His name was Nate Fours and he was the sporty kind of old man you’d occasionally find anywhere.
His company was the Napoleonic era British Major General detective girl Erin Lightheart.
Equipped with only flashlights the two of them had skipped the secluded areas and immediately descended into the building’s basement that also functioned as a storage room. Following all expectations the place was both dark and messy, yet also with a heavy humidity drenching the air all around, making it hard to breathe. To further the already quite gloomy atmosphere, the contents of the room, all kinds of requisites used for the horror house upstairs, ranging from simple accessories like crosses over to whole statues of monsters, made for the perfect addition.
Nate Fours didn’t mind, though, had all this been part of his everyday life. Besides, they had come here for a reason that prevented them from minding to begin with.
«Back when Silas left it with me, I didn’t know which place to choose to keep it the most safe. He insisted I found the best place, so I truly ran my mind across quite many possibilities. In the end, however, this place appeared the most attractive. I figured nobody would come and search whatever it was here in all of this mess, since nobody would enjoy the idea of doing so to begin with. Even if, it would just be mistaken for another part of the equipment.»
He explained, not minding any obstacles when proceeding through the dark. He was following a preset path, making it obvious that he had a very certain direction in mind. There was no longer any hesitation.
«I figured that eventually he would want to have it back, so I spent my day memorising the exact place where I hid it, occasionally checking if it was still there, when nobody would be around.»
After having headed deep down into the depths of the storage, passing the numerous dreadful shadows, he finally stopped. Before him rested what seemed to be an old, shabby wax statue of the tales’s most frightening monster assuming a stance that would only serve for killing purposes. Once the flashlight’s light met it, its face frighteningly distorted by the years in this humid basement became clearly visible. However not even that did the man mind, as he simply knelt down right in front.
«In case this place would ever be tidied out I reserved this statue as my personal property. Nobody vetoed, of course. Only an old madman would find amusement in such rotten relics of the old days.»
Chuckling as his speech concluded, the man began fumbling around with the platform that served as the statues foot. He seemed to be pulling aside the wooden material, revealing a hidden compartment with something inside. Immediately he’d pull that out as well, placing it on the floor between him and the girl, while still keeping his kneeling position.
«This is it. The item Silas entrusted me with.»
What lay before them was a small box of black wood. About the size of a modern day laptop, sturdy, yet obviously quite old. Surprisingly, though, its age would only be given out by the archaic style of manufacture, not by the state it was in. After all it was oddly well-preserved. The light was reflected by a metal structure. Iron embroideries crafted in odd ways, carrying odd letters and pictures. Figures like angels and words from gospel.
The oddest feature however was a round circle of iron, small in size, standing forth by only a few millimetres. It was as tough the circle was the end of a cylinder reaching into the box’s insides. The other end of a lock?
«Unfortunately…there is neither a proper lock, nor a key to open it with…I believe that there is a trick to it. There must be, but I just can’t figure it out…»
Of course he hadn’t been able to. After all it was not part of his world. He hadn’t been part of its world. That world of the occult. The Magic Side.
The angel embroideries were aligned in odd lines, forming something akin to a cage, no gates, running all across the small item. They rested there in their purity and holiness, yet ordered in such a way that they would pose as guardians. The letters formed words meant to ward of mankind’s evil, scribbled in the holy language.
There were two symbols, the shining metal and the wood. While the first took the role of guarding angels, the latter claimed that of representing pagan belief. Thus whatever was within the box, the seal would keep it closed as long as that barrier of holy purity remained over the demonic evil.
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
This discovery was more than troubling, and that was putting it lightly! The young adult examined the box from a careful distance. She got a bad feeling from this thing. It was as though it were meant to contain something horrible in the event that whatever Silas was doing was thwarted and he needed a last, desperate resort option. Not to mention, this thing could easily be invoking the tale of Pandora's Box, especially given that she was a woman. Opening this thing up could present quite the bad ending if it did contain something horrible.
Yet...
"You're not sure how to open it? Did he say anything else about it when he left it with you? Did he handle or treat it in any particularly notable ways? Did he directly touch it at any point? Wearing gloves, or with his bare skin?"
Something was off even about this. Leaving such a major thing with a non-magician in a hurry, with instructions to hide it away where only said non-magician could find it? That would imply that Silas meant for Nate to find a way to open it anyway, or that where it was, and who possessed it didn't matter so long as a certain trigger was pulled. Was it so bad that just existing in Whitby without a caretaker was enough to trigger it past a certain point? Or perhaps Silas meant to personally return and activate it?
Looking it over some more, Erin's heart sank. This was like discovering a remotely controlled nuclear weapon meant to go off when the conditions were right. It could have a dead man's trigger, is awaiting a specified time, or perhaps something else is meant to unlock it, such as an ongoing spell being spun by people within Whitby? This was surely the key to...something, but would Armageddon be unleashed alongside it?
"I...think we should get this out of Whitby. It could be dangerous for us to pry inside with so many people around. Your friend is likely involved in something pretty bad."
While her voice had a calm tone to it, there was no way Nate could miss the shock underlying her actions and words.
Yet...
"You're not sure how to open it? Did he say anything else about it when he left it with you? Did he handle or treat it in any particularly notable ways? Did he directly touch it at any point? Wearing gloves, or with his bare skin?"
Something was off even about this. Leaving such a major thing with a non-magician in a hurry, with instructions to hide it away where only said non-magician could find it? That would imply that Silas meant for Nate to find a way to open it anyway, or that where it was, and who possessed it didn't matter so long as a certain trigger was pulled. Was it so bad that just existing in Whitby without a caretaker was enough to trigger it past a certain point? Or perhaps Silas meant to personally return and activate it?
Looking it over some more, Erin's heart sank. This was like discovering a remotely controlled nuclear weapon meant to go off when the conditions were right. It could have a dead man's trigger, is awaiting a specified time, or perhaps something else is meant to unlock it, such as an ongoing spell being spun by people within Whitby? This was surely the key to...something, but would Armageddon be unleashed alongside it?
"I...think we should get this out of Whitby. It could be dangerous for us to pry inside with so many people around. Your friend is likely involved in something pretty bad."
While her voice had a calm tone to it, there was no way Nate could miss the shock underlying her actions and words.
Erin Lightheart- Primiceriatus999
- Posts : 167
Join date : 2016-05-14
Location : London, England / Caernarfon, Wales
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
A long sigh escaped the small Magician girl as the tall knight spoke up. She couldn’t deny that what he said were the best of hopes they were left with, but she couldn’t accept what he had said either. After all it hadn’t been a reply that fit her worries.
What would happen from now on? This wasn’t about just the children anymore, it was about the entire town. Something was odd with every angle of this situation, even she could tell with only that tiny pack of experience she had. She knew Longroad was worried about something, actually even cornered by it. She just couldn’t tell what it was, couldn’t assume its shape. And if that very thing would reach those children there would be no happy end whatsoever.
Thus she sighed again.
«I doubt that'll cut it. Look, you’re basically on your own right now. You can be lucky your friends didn’t hear any of this or at least aren’t reacting, because what you suggested is a rebellion. Besides, the cooperation force is nothing too worrisome to begin with. I mean…what can the knights help with in terms of such plans? Yeah, they have combat power, but what was that worth against that Ambroise? Shit. So why would cutting the ties be their main plan?
Actually fuck that, I mean, that shit would have gone down either way. With Ambroise fucking things up or without him. It was just natural at this point. So, no, can’t be it. They didn’t seem like the overly careful types. They’re probably after something even worse, something else. But whaaat goddammit!?!?»
Throwing about a tantrum as her mind sank into thoughts, Bláthín once again showed her cute yet slightly terrifying side, flinging around words that most certainly did not suit her age. She was like an elementary schooler who hung out too much with their late teens cousin right there. At least the nuns in the background knew how to perfectly time their ear covering motion.
«Mmmmmh. If you look at this closely enough this Mr. Ambroise seems like someone who enjoys arranging plays, like in a theatre. To me, from what I’ve heard, it appears as though he is someone with a certain amount of taste that probably flows into his plans and their execution, much like an artist. An artist catering their audience, like in an attempt to influence them with his performance?»
With her usual calming voice Sister Celine cut into the conversation, or rather made herself a place politely and innocently. The manner she spoke and the manner she faced the others made it clear that she didn’t wish to intrude if not wanted there, yet at the same time she made it clear that she probably was the most adult in the group without ever intending to do so.
«A performer? Now that does sound intriguing, dear Sister. May I inquire who that performer you have been talking about is and of course what style of performance they do engage with?»
Another voice had grasped the opportunity to speak up. However it was none of the sisters, nor the knights and of course not the orphans. A shadow, or rather plenty of them had appeared on the road ahead, directly closing in, leaving the cover that was the haze.
While the men and women in the back were all featureless statue like priests or nuns in all blacks, the one in the lead was an entirely different caliber.
Crimson robes of a holy man worn underneath a red leather coat, befitting of a hunter, a wide brimmed hat and sporty horseman’s boots. His face was long, a tiny bit sharp, but its features soft. He wore a black moustache and goatee. His long black hair was tied behind his back, dangling down the coat’s back side. His eyes were closed, but on the lips he wore a calm smile, quite similar to that belonging to the motherly nun. That man seemed holy, educated, protected by faith, yet gloomy. The entire group had something rather odd about them, a feeling, a stench they would never shake of. It was subliminal, yet no less disturbing.
What would happen from now on? This wasn’t about just the children anymore, it was about the entire town. Something was odd with every angle of this situation, even she could tell with only that tiny pack of experience she had. She knew Longroad was worried about something, actually even cornered by it. She just couldn’t tell what it was, couldn’t assume its shape. And if that very thing would reach those children there would be no happy end whatsoever.
Thus she sighed again.
«I doubt that'll cut it. Look, you’re basically on your own right now. You can be lucky your friends didn’t hear any of this or at least aren’t reacting, because what you suggested is a rebellion. Besides, the cooperation force is nothing too worrisome to begin with. I mean…what can the knights help with in terms of such plans? Yeah, they have combat power, but what was that worth against that Ambroise? Shit. So why would cutting the ties be their main plan?
Actually fuck that, I mean, that shit would have gone down either way. With Ambroise fucking things up or without him. It was just natural at this point. So, no, can’t be it. They didn’t seem like the overly careful types. They’re probably after something even worse, something else. But whaaat goddammit!?!?»
Throwing about a tantrum as her mind sank into thoughts, Bláthín once again showed her cute yet slightly terrifying side, flinging around words that most certainly did not suit her age. She was like an elementary schooler who hung out too much with their late teens cousin right there. At least the nuns in the background knew how to perfectly time their ear covering motion.
«Mmmmmh. If you look at this closely enough this Mr. Ambroise seems like someone who enjoys arranging plays, like in a theatre. To me, from what I’ve heard, it appears as though he is someone with a certain amount of taste that probably flows into his plans and their execution, much like an artist. An artist catering their audience, like in an attempt to influence them with his performance?»
With her usual calming voice Sister Celine cut into the conversation, or rather made herself a place politely and innocently. The manner she spoke and the manner she faced the others made it clear that she didn’t wish to intrude if not wanted there, yet at the same time she made it clear that she probably was the most adult in the group without ever intending to do so.
«A performer? Now that does sound intriguing, dear Sister. May I inquire who that performer you have been talking about is and of course what style of performance they do engage with?»
Another voice had grasped the opportunity to speak up. However it was none of the sisters, nor the knights and of course not the orphans. A shadow, or rather plenty of them had appeared on the road ahead, directly closing in, leaving the cover that was the haze.
While the men and women in the back were all featureless statue like priests or nuns in all blacks, the one in the lead was an entirely different caliber.
Crimson robes of a holy man worn underneath a red leather coat, befitting of a hunter, a wide brimmed hat and sporty horseman’s boots. His face was long, a tiny bit sharp, but its features soft. He wore a black moustache and goatee. His long black hair was tied behind his back, dangling down the coat’s back side. His eyes were closed, but on the lips he wore a calm smile, quite similar to that belonging to the motherly nun. That man seemed holy, educated, protected by faith, yet gloomy. The entire group had something rather odd about them, a feeling, a stench they would never shake of. It was subliminal, yet no less disturbing.
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Alexander will have to admit to himself; the young Knight was out of his depth to understand what is happening. So knowing his answer to the young girl wasn't sufficient hadn't been a surprise, the knight has resigned himself at this moment to damage control; the very least until just a slither of information had helped to make the next step.
Something was going on, what exactly were Ambroise's motives? Listening to the sister's take on the events had made him think back on how the knights acted. From the very beginning, the knights felt like they were playing someone else's game and the first thing they did was look at the Anglican church with disdain. But seeing it now how the sister describes it as some performance, the young knight mind felt like they were pieces of a puzzle of some mass ritual.
Maybe that is why the Dawn-Coloured Sunlight was around. They do have a keen interest in grand rituals, and while Alexander felt like he might just be overthinking it.
From here on out, whatever the end is he will not act out their design. And it has begun just as it started, the single gesture in the air declaring the halt to their movement from the young knight. It had occurred just a breath before a voice had responded to the sister's words.
«A performer? Now that does sound intriguing, dear Sister. May I inquire who that performer you have been talking about is and of course what style of performance they do engage with?»
Had this been any other situation, just a drink at a party and this man who just came into view had sat by him. The young Knight would make it clear his feelings about this man, the work he does and done would never agree with the idealistic knight. But this wasn't a time to allow personal feelings to guide his actions; Alexander must act on what is best for the nation rather than for his feelings.
And those clothes, and more importantly that stench made it known to him who had now appeared.
"Now, now Cardinal isn't it usually polite for you to introduce yourself before you start asking questions?" Alexander spoke with a stoic expression, not believing in coincidences from this meeting alone he had known the Catholic church was on the move.
Something was going on, what exactly were Ambroise's motives? Listening to the sister's take on the events had made him think back on how the knights acted. From the very beginning, the knights felt like they were playing someone else's game and the first thing they did was look at the Anglican church with disdain. But seeing it now how the sister describes it as some performance, the young knight mind felt like they were pieces of a puzzle of some mass ritual.
Maybe that is why the Dawn-Coloured Sunlight was around. They do have a keen interest in grand rituals, and while Alexander felt like he might just be overthinking it.
From here on out, whatever the end is he will not act out their design. And it has begun just as it started, the single gesture in the air declaring the halt to their movement from the young knight. It had occurred just a breath before a voice had responded to the sister's words.
«A performer? Now that does sound intriguing, dear Sister. May I inquire who that performer you have been talking about is and of course what style of performance they do engage with?»
Had this been any other situation, just a drink at a party and this man who just came into view had sat by him. The young Knight would make it clear his feelings about this man, the work he does and done would never agree with the idealistic knight. But this wasn't a time to allow personal feelings to guide his actions; Alexander must act on what is best for the nation rather than for his feelings.
And those clothes, and more importantly that stench made it known to him who had now appeared.
"Now, now Cardinal isn't it usually polite for you to introduce yourself before you start asking questions?" Alexander spoke with a stoic expression, not believing in coincidences from this meeting alone he had known the Catholic church was on the move.
Sir Alexander Beathen- Elisium928
- Posts : 325
Join date : 2015-04-30
Age : 32
Location : England
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Annihilatus was not too difficult to find. Necessarius’s intelligence had already narrowed their rendezvous point of choice down to a single location based on various sightings of members, so it was just a matter of getting there.
As she would be negotiating, Saravati decided to don her winter clothes on top of her usual swimsuit-esque outfit. Since she only had to search for a specific address, she did not really have to use magic to move from place to place quickly, so it ended up being more convenient for her. Walking around in a chilly town in winter with what was essentially a glorified one-piece swimsuit was a definite recipe for frostbite, after all.
After meandering around the general area for some time, Sara eventually found the place they were using: a small, family-owned restaurant-plus-cafe sitting on the corner of its street. It was a fairly cozy place. The walls were lined with realistic looking paintings of various forest landscapes, all within the winter. The tables, chairs, floor, walls, and ceiling all had a certain wooden polish to them, though the chairs all had cushions on the seats and backs. There was even an active fireplace on the opposite end of the entrance. It was all designed to be reminiscent of a cozy cabin in the woods—a place where people just come in, get warmed up and leisurely converse with some friends over a nice warm (or cold, depending on the season) meal and drink.
At least, that’s how Sara would have described it were it not for one obviously out of place element.
Sitting at a table with her hood down and a cup of tea in front of her, she stared at the cause of that distortion in ambiance, or at least part of the cause—a tall woman in a conservative red nun’s habit, a mediator for Annihilatus who was known by the name Vasilisa and a much shorter girl in a risque nun’s habit reminiscent of a bondage outfit.
Sara had hoped things would go smoothly enough that they would eventually reach some agreement for an alliance or be flatly rejected. But, it seemed the nature of the members of Annihilatus here were just so counter to the desire for smooth discussion.
In the end, the Annihilatus members who had gathered were just ordering drinks, taking up seats, and generally being a nuisance. It was probably the reason why there were no other customers there at the time.
Theoretically, Annihilatus and Necessarius should have been a perfect team-up for dealing with a supposed vampire. After all, those who deal with that which should not exist and those who specialize in hunting sentient human beings would have been a wonderful combination.
But, things were never going to go that easily.
“So, are we going with this alliance?” Sara asked, staring at the blonde Vasilisa while letting her eyes occasionally dart to the other girl.
As she would be negotiating, Saravati decided to don her winter clothes on top of her usual swimsuit-esque outfit. Since she only had to search for a specific address, she did not really have to use magic to move from place to place quickly, so it ended up being more convenient for her. Walking around in a chilly town in winter with what was essentially a glorified one-piece swimsuit was a definite recipe for frostbite, after all.
After meandering around the general area for some time, Sara eventually found the place they were using: a small, family-owned restaurant-plus-cafe sitting on the corner of its street. It was a fairly cozy place. The walls were lined with realistic looking paintings of various forest landscapes, all within the winter. The tables, chairs, floor, walls, and ceiling all had a certain wooden polish to them, though the chairs all had cushions on the seats and backs. There was even an active fireplace on the opposite end of the entrance. It was all designed to be reminiscent of a cozy cabin in the woods—a place where people just come in, get warmed up and leisurely converse with some friends over a nice warm (or cold, depending on the season) meal and drink.
At least, that’s how Sara would have described it were it not for one obviously out of place element.
Sitting at a table with her hood down and a cup of tea in front of her, she stared at the cause of that distortion in ambiance, or at least part of the cause—a tall woman in a conservative red nun’s habit, a mediator for Annihilatus who was known by the name Vasilisa and a much shorter girl in a risque nun’s habit reminiscent of a bondage outfit.
Sara had hoped things would go smoothly enough that they would eventually reach some agreement for an alliance or be flatly rejected. But, it seemed the nature of the members of Annihilatus here were just so counter to the desire for smooth discussion.
In the end, the Annihilatus members who had gathered were just ordering drinks, taking up seats, and generally being a nuisance. It was probably the reason why there were no other customers there at the time.
Theoretically, Annihilatus and Necessarius should have been a perfect team-up for dealing with a supposed vampire. After all, those who deal with that which should not exist and those who specialize in hunting sentient human beings would have been a wonderful combination.
But, things were never going to go that easily.
“So, are we going with this alliance?” Sara asked, staring at the blonde Vasilisa while letting her eyes occasionally dart to the other girl.
Saravati Nair- Volare723
- Posts : 144
Join date : 2017-01-19
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Most of the Annihilatus members showed some degree of guilt, discomfort, or resignation over how blatant of a nuisance they were being. Some sign that they were aware that they didn't belong. It showed in their expressions, their body language, and the way they ordered a few more drinks than they really needed. As people in that side of the world, they all held their oddities, but they retained at least that much common sense.
But in the center of that was someone who was utterly at ease. Shameless would be a fine word to describe her with. Her clothing, the traditional red habit of Annihilatus was conservative and perfectly normal, and her skin appeared to just be showing signs of decline. Though she appeared to be in the late late twenties, there were people in the world who would give a deep sigh if they heard her age appraised like that.
"Don't be so stiff~ You should relax some. If you spend all your time thinking about hard things like that, even a cute girl like you'll get wrinkles, you know. Sit down and have a cup of tea! Take off that coat and keep Sasha and I company for a while," said Vasilisa.
As she spoke in that childish tone, Vasilisa poured a new cup of tea for their visitor and prepared her a seat adjacent to both her and her companion, the previously named Sasha, displaying a fine host's spirit. Sasha had been silent from Sara's arrival until now, moving only to sip her tea or add more alcohol to it. Despite her stoicism, her appearance was certainly worthy of drawing Sara's eyes, dressed in little more than what could only be seen as a bondage outfit. Several instruments of torture hung from her waist as well.
"My first suggestion: you should sit. Letting her do as she wishes would be a problem, but the talks will likely not proceed until you comply."
Setting aside the implications as to Vasilisa's character, Sasha's first words gave some personality to her appearance. The way she spoke felt less mechanical than it did functional, displaying a very blunt desire to drop pretenses and get straight to the point. That brought a curious contrast to her very dysfunctional state of attire, but Sara hardly knew Sasha well enough to judge her taste.
Her words confirmed what Vasilisa's action in preparing a spot before receiving an answer already implied. It may have been an invitation, but everyone in Annihilatus knew that she was a person whose desires were usually granted one way or another. Vasilisa held just that sort of troublesome personality, so any attempt of refusal on Sara's part would just lead to tragedy on her end. Though the identity of that hell wasn't something that Sara would ever imagine...
But in the center of that was someone who was utterly at ease. Shameless would be a fine word to describe her with. Her clothing, the traditional red habit of Annihilatus was conservative and perfectly normal, and her skin appeared to just be showing signs of decline. Though she appeared to be in the late late twenties, there were people in the world who would give a deep sigh if they heard her age appraised like that.
"Don't be so stiff~ You should relax some. If you spend all your time thinking about hard things like that, even a cute girl like you'll get wrinkles, you know. Sit down and have a cup of tea! Take off that coat and keep Sasha and I company for a while," said Vasilisa.
As she spoke in that childish tone, Vasilisa poured a new cup of tea for their visitor and prepared her a seat adjacent to both her and her companion, the previously named Sasha, displaying a fine host's spirit. Sasha had been silent from Sara's arrival until now, moving only to sip her tea or add more alcohol to it. Despite her stoicism, her appearance was certainly worthy of drawing Sara's eyes, dressed in little more than what could only be seen as a bondage outfit. Several instruments of torture hung from her waist as well.
"My first suggestion: you should sit. Letting her do as she wishes would be a problem, but the talks will likely not proceed until you comply."
Setting aside the implications as to Vasilisa's character, Sasha's first words gave some personality to her appearance. The way she spoke felt less mechanical than it did functional, displaying a very blunt desire to drop pretenses and get straight to the point. That brought a curious contrast to her very dysfunctional state of attire, but Sara hardly knew Sasha well enough to judge her taste.
Her words confirmed what Vasilisa's action in preparing a spot before receiving an answer already implied. It may have been an invitation, but everyone in Annihilatus knew that she was a person whose desires were usually granted one way or another. Vasilisa held just that sort of troublesome personality, so any attempt of refusal on Sara's part would just lead to tragedy on her end. Though the identity of that hell wasn't something that Sara would ever imagine...
_________________
Lean Mean Occasionally-Evaluating Machine
• [Arc IV] Between the Lines • [SS] Hazy Silhouette • [SS] Unknown Magnitude Serial Catastrophe • [SS] Vagrant By Any Other Name: A Match Made in Hell •
Ideas to a good home!
Unused Idea Board
• [Arc IV] Between the Lines • [SS] Hazy Silhouette • [SS] Unknown Magnitude Serial Catastrophe • [SS] Vagrant By Any Other Name: A Match Made in Hell •
Ideas to a good home!
Unused Idea Board
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
The girl’s worry was carried onto Nate Fours quite easily. While he had no idea why, he still felt heavily affected by that sudden change towards the more negative. Whatever it was, it frightened her, as her mind spun on and so it would also have an effect on his composure as well.
However.
«Silas wasn’t anything like himself when he handed it to me. I remember that day. He was indeed behaving off, babbling a lot of confusing words. I was worried, but he didn’t allow me to. I couldn’t show it, did I know he wouldn’t have taken it well. You know…Silas is a man that can’t have it when people care for him too much, does he not care about himself either.»
His glance escaped the one of the girl, focussing on the mysterious sealed box placed between the two of them. What ran through his mind would remain an invisible truth the girl could only guess. Yet what he laid bare would be words telling the rest of his story.
«‹You must keep it hidden at all cost. No matter who will come and ask for it, ward them off and wait for my return. If someone should find it, strike them down and flee with it. If someone should steal it, I shall never forgive you, so prevent that from happening at all cost. This, old friend, is my life I am entrusting to you…and only you!›»
Repeating the words his friend had spoken in terrifying accuracy, the strain on the man’s mind became visible by his heavy sweat.
He fell back in exhaustion, returning to facing the detective.
There was no need for him to explain it by word. This was all he had.
«I…think we should get this out of Whitby. It could be dangerous for us to pry inside with so many people around. Your friend is likely involved in something pretty bad.»
«Yes, I agree. This would be the best course of action to take. There’s a small forest to the west of the town. A place I used to loiter around in my youth. Over there we should be able to escape the prying eyes of the world. At least I used to use it for that purpose back in the days.»
A nostalgic chuckle came along with his suggestion. He’d been rather familiar with the area, which wasn’t unnatural considering both his age and the possibility that he may have spent his entire lifetime in the port town. While he was no expert Magician whatsoever, he still had the advantage of being a long time local who likely knew the place better than any tracking expert. It was a cold comfort, yet in the end the only physical foundation they had to begin with.
However.
«Silas wasn’t anything like himself when he handed it to me. I remember that day. He was indeed behaving off, babbling a lot of confusing words. I was worried, but he didn’t allow me to. I couldn’t show it, did I know he wouldn’t have taken it well. You know…Silas is a man that can’t have it when people care for him too much, does he not care about himself either.»
His glance escaped the one of the girl, focussing on the mysterious sealed box placed between the two of them. What ran through his mind would remain an invisible truth the girl could only guess. Yet what he laid bare would be words telling the rest of his story.
«‹You must keep it hidden at all cost. No matter who will come and ask for it, ward them off and wait for my return. If someone should find it, strike them down and flee with it. If someone should steal it, I shall never forgive you, so prevent that from happening at all cost. This, old friend, is my life I am entrusting to you…and only you!›»
Repeating the words his friend had spoken in terrifying accuracy, the strain on the man’s mind became visible by his heavy sweat.
He fell back in exhaustion, returning to facing the detective.
There was no need for him to explain it by word. This was all he had.
«I…think we should get this out of Whitby. It could be dangerous for us to pry inside with so many people around. Your friend is likely involved in something pretty bad.»
«Yes, I agree. This would be the best course of action to take. There’s a small forest to the west of the town. A place I used to loiter around in my youth. Over there we should be able to escape the prying eyes of the world. At least I used to use it for that purpose back in the days.»
A nostalgic chuckle came along with his suggestion. He’d been rather familiar with the area, which wasn’t unnatural considering both his age and the possibility that he may have spent his entire lifetime in the port town. While he was no expert Magician whatsoever, he still had the advantage of being a long time local who likely knew the place better than any tracking expert. It was a cold comfort, yet in the end the only physical foundation they had to begin with.
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
The words Nate recounted to her in such detail all but confirmed her theory. Silas was into something so deeply it may consume him for good and drag him down to hell. And this box was likely the key to all of it. Anyone coming after this thing was virtually guaranteed to be suspect and belonging to the central forces behind this conspiracy. But what could be done about it?
"Yes, I agree. This would be the best course of action to take. There’s a small forest to the west of the town. A place I used to loiter around in my youth. Over there we should be able to escape the prying eyes of the world. At least I used to use it for that purpose back in the days."
That's certainly an idea. She looked around the room they were in for a moment, deep in thought. After a moment, the young detective looked back to her elderly companion with a confident smirk.
She had a plan.
...
"Well, i'm off. I'd recommend erasing the security footage of our little visit here, and keep watching it when you can once we're gone. Make sure nobody else comes skulking around. I know at least one person who has a tendency of showing up unexpectedly. At least around me, but you never know what they're doing when they're not stalking me. You know what to do, Mr. Fours. May we be successful."
It was now time to leave. First she was planning to head for home to once again change clothes into something equally strange, but in a way that she would blend in like before. Next was the forest Nate suggested. She recommended that he not come with her for her outing, but to keep in contact if he found anything or anyone suspicious, and to still call at set times to confirm that he was in fact still alive, and not compromised. Secret code words and all. It wouldn't do to entrust her to hide the box if he knew where she put it exactly, now would it?
"Yes, I agree. This would be the best course of action to take. There’s a small forest to the west of the town. A place I used to loiter around in my youth. Over there we should be able to escape the prying eyes of the world. At least I used to use it for that purpose back in the days."
That's certainly an idea. She looked around the room they were in for a moment, deep in thought. After a moment, the young detective looked back to her elderly companion with a confident smirk.
She had a plan.
...
"Well, i'm off. I'd recommend erasing the security footage of our little visit here, and keep watching it when you can once we're gone. Make sure nobody else comes skulking around. I know at least one person who has a tendency of showing up unexpectedly. At least around me, but you never know what they're doing when they're not stalking me. You know what to do, Mr. Fours. May we be successful."
It was now time to leave. First she was planning to head for home to once again change clothes into something equally strange, but in a way that she would blend in like before. Next was the forest Nate suggested. She recommended that he not come with her for her outing, but to keep in contact if he found anything or anyone suspicious, and to still call at set times to confirm that he was in fact still alive, and not compromised. Secret code words and all. It wouldn't do to entrust her to hide the box if he knew where she put it exactly, now would it?
Erin Lightheart- Primiceriatus999
- Posts : 167
Join date : 2016-05-14
Location : London, England / Caernarfon, Wales
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
«That’s your life insurance, girl. That’s your sole life insurance right now.»
She had thought of those words as she walked down the city's streets, heading towards her new destination. If true, that was the oddest sort of leverage to have in this situation, considering his likely strategy. It was true that she had no real combat abilities: it was on purpose, her personal desires not really requiring or wanting her to strike at or back at anyone.
Still, how is that useful here? Perhaps in some way, she could really do what she was wanting to do from the start?
But that left his last comment. Birdway pulling the strings possibly? Well, she had long suspected it. The question was whether or not that was good.
"...hm?"
It was then that something in the far distance came into view, despite the fog's thickness: A large group of people, all gathered, seemingly talking amongst themselves. The only time such a gathering ever occurred was when Birdway had set off an explosion, causing everyone to home in on the scene, but no such noise or disturbance, to her, even happened.
"Now, now Cardinal isn't it usually polite for you to introduce yourself before you start asking questions?"
That voice was certainly familiar. Was this the group that Longroad hung up on? Perhaps Mark and the others were still with them, the rest of the group being obscured by the fog. Well, if anything, more allies in this situation wouldn't hurt.
And so she approached the swathe of people, all of whom were either knights or church members by attire alone. Though in some way, maybe this was crazy, considering the last 'church member' she ran into earlier?
She had thought of those words as she walked down the city's streets, heading towards her new destination. If true, that was the oddest sort of leverage to have in this situation, considering his likely strategy. It was true that she had no real combat abilities: it was on purpose, her personal desires not really requiring or wanting her to strike at or back at anyone.
Still, how is that useful here? Perhaps in some way, she could really do what she was wanting to do from the start?
But that left his last comment. Birdway pulling the strings possibly? Well, she had long suspected it. The question was whether or not that was good.
"...hm?"
It was then that something in the far distance came into view, despite the fog's thickness: A large group of people, all gathered, seemingly talking amongst themselves. The only time such a gathering ever occurred was when Birdway had set off an explosion, causing everyone to home in on the scene, but no such noise or disturbance, to her, even happened.
"Now, now Cardinal isn't it usually polite for you to introduce yourself before you start asking questions?"
That voice was certainly familiar. Was this the group that Longroad hung up on? Perhaps Mark and the others were still with them, the rest of the group being obscured by the fog. Well, if anything, more allies in this situation wouldn't hurt.
And so she approached the swathe of people, all of whom were either knights or church members by attire alone. Though in some way, maybe this was crazy, considering the last 'church member' she ran into earlier?
Albrekka Starbright- Caelestis088
- Posts : 113
Join date : 2016-05-31
Age : 35
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
With everything following after each other that quickly, Bláthín Neve, for a moment, hadn’t even realised how much she’d been pushed into the background. Right when she was about to reply to the nun’s input, something which had led her mind into a territory she’d been rejecting the entire time, someone else forced their way into their conversation. Someone truly unpleasant in fact.
«…Enrico Coppolla…»
Accidentally placing her exasperated outburst in reply to Beathen, she could feel herself being overcome by nausea at this sudden twist of fate.
Of all the people they could have run into, this most likely was the worst possible candidate. She could tell not just from looking at the holy man himself, but his company as well. There was about a dozen of nuns and priests, all them lacking what characterised their counterparts from her own group. Instead they even bore the greatest contrast. While the nuns of England were symbols of motherly care, charity and salvation, those agents of the Roman Catholic Church were entirely dyed by colours of cruelty, suffering and killing intent. There wasn’t even knowledge on their nature required to understand. Just a single glance and everything would become visible through their gloomy faces and horrifying aura. Those men and women were executioners through and through.
The fairy girl knew what it took right now was a diplomatic hand, however she didn’t trust herself on that and from her experience she could tell that the knights didn’t shine in that domain either.
«My my, how impolite. One might believe you are considering us a hostile force. However aren’t we here for the very same cause?»
Coppolla appeared calm. His eyes still closed and his voice filled with the kind of grace you’d expect from an elderly priest, putting his entire demeanour into contrast with the odd atmosphere surrounding him and company.
«Please accept my humble apologies, Cardinal Coppolla. We did not mean to disrespect you, however the circumstance surrounding our group are of quite urgent nature, please understand that as well. If you desire to be informed about the exact events, I would suggest approaching Richmond Longroad. He should be best to give you a summary right now. Especially since we were not informed about the status of the intel’s secrecy. That is something we can only kindly ask you to accept.»
The one to appear as a voice of reason was Sister Celine. Her words placed with careful diplomacy, she once again made herself known as the group’s motherly figure, even though she hadn’t been one for the political front at all. Yet in the end, wasn’t this the miracle one could have asked for exactly right now?
«I see, I see. It is truly a shame that such a mindful person is found amongst the ranks of such barbarians, yet fate always takes a liking to odd turns, doesn’t it?»
The purity of his words began to fade as a single small stain began to appear. Coppolla, even though his eyes were still closed, turned towards the group as a whole, seeking something he did not seem to find.
«I was hoping to find one of ours among your ranks. A traitor, seeking to protect the lives of worthless pagans, much like these, from being consumed by the devil’s servants. However it does seem to me that there is no such person. Or have you encountered anyone befitting of this description? Please, tell me if you have. No actually…»
The crimson cardinal’s voice darkened.
«Tell me. You have encountered her, haven’t you? Denying me the truth is as though committing a crime against the entirety of Rome. And committing such crime can be considered a declaration of war, something which can only be redeemed by spilling a sufficient amount of blood. Not just that of a single person, you see?»
A cold breeze passed by them. All of sudden the already cold February air appeared to be even cooler. In her skimpy clothing loud mouth Bláthín Neve was the first to shiver. Not for the cold itself, but due to the internal struggle she’d kept suppressing throughout the conversation.
The more she heard him talk, the more she knew about him, the longer she would have to endure, the urge to reach for that small dagger hidden in her boot would keep on prospering.
«…Enrico Coppolla…»
Accidentally placing her exasperated outburst in reply to Beathen, she could feel herself being overcome by nausea at this sudden twist of fate.
Of all the people they could have run into, this most likely was the worst possible candidate. She could tell not just from looking at the holy man himself, but his company as well. There was about a dozen of nuns and priests, all them lacking what characterised their counterparts from her own group. Instead they even bore the greatest contrast. While the nuns of England were symbols of motherly care, charity and salvation, those agents of the Roman Catholic Church were entirely dyed by colours of cruelty, suffering and killing intent. There wasn’t even knowledge on their nature required to understand. Just a single glance and everything would become visible through their gloomy faces and horrifying aura. Those men and women were executioners through and through.
The fairy girl knew what it took right now was a diplomatic hand, however she didn’t trust herself on that and from her experience she could tell that the knights didn’t shine in that domain either.
«My my, how impolite. One might believe you are considering us a hostile force. However aren’t we here for the very same cause?»
Coppolla appeared calm. His eyes still closed and his voice filled with the kind of grace you’d expect from an elderly priest, putting his entire demeanour into contrast with the odd atmosphere surrounding him and company.
«Please accept my humble apologies, Cardinal Coppolla. We did not mean to disrespect you, however the circumstance surrounding our group are of quite urgent nature, please understand that as well. If you desire to be informed about the exact events, I would suggest approaching Richmond Longroad. He should be best to give you a summary right now. Especially since we were not informed about the status of the intel’s secrecy. That is something we can only kindly ask you to accept.»
The one to appear as a voice of reason was Sister Celine. Her words placed with careful diplomacy, she once again made herself known as the group’s motherly figure, even though she hadn’t been one for the political front at all. Yet in the end, wasn’t this the miracle one could have asked for exactly right now?
«I see, I see. It is truly a shame that such a mindful person is found amongst the ranks of such barbarians, yet fate always takes a liking to odd turns, doesn’t it?»
The purity of his words began to fade as a single small stain began to appear. Coppolla, even though his eyes were still closed, turned towards the group as a whole, seeking something he did not seem to find.
«I was hoping to find one of ours among your ranks. A traitor, seeking to protect the lives of worthless pagans, much like these, from being consumed by the devil’s servants. However it does seem to me that there is no such person. Or have you encountered anyone befitting of this description? Please, tell me if you have. No actually…»
The crimson cardinal’s voice darkened.
«Tell me. You have encountered her, haven’t you? Denying me the truth is as though committing a crime against the entirety of Rome. And committing such crime can be considered a declaration of war, something which can only be redeemed by spilling a sufficient amount of blood. Not just that of a single person, you see?»
A cold breeze passed by them. All of sudden the already cold February air appeared to be even cooler. In her skimpy clothing loud mouth Bláthín Neve was the first to shiver. Not for the cold itself, but due to the internal struggle she’d kept suppressing throughout the conversation.
The more she heard him talk, the more she knew about him, the longer she would have to endure, the urge to reach for that small dagger hidden in her boot would keep on prospering.
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
It was important for anyone to act on any stage is to know your enemies. The very least the knights that often meant anyone on the European continent and only just for starters. The main one out of that bunch was the Roman Catholic church. So what their presence means wasn't lost on Alexander nor was the comparison of the church's styles.
Alexander was very much aware what the Catholic church does in many shadows under their church. And this Cardinal Enrico Coppolla, thanks to the fairy he was able to know his name, that he wasn't someone to easily communicate with.
Alexander would never agree to their practices, but this wasn't the time of personal indulgence. He had to handle this with care and didn't give heed to the Cardinal's rude and threatening words.
The young knight remained stoic even as he responded.
"Well you have to blame the weather on this one, Cardinal Coppolla; as the sister has explained there was no disrespect. So let me give you clarity so we can all see through this annoying haze. I can confirm, that I have seen the one you've described not so long ago," By saying this and nothing more; Alexander had sent the ball back into the Cardinal's court.
Alexander was very much aware what the Catholic church does in many shadows under their church. And this Cardinal Enrico Coppolla, thanks to the fairy he was able to know his name, that he wasn't someone to easily communicate with.
Alexander would never agree to their practices, but this wasn't the time of personal indulgence. He had to handle this with care and didn't give heed to the Cardinal's rude and threatening words.
The young knight remained stoic even as he responded.
"Well you have to blame the weather on this one, Cardinal Coppolla; as the sister has explained there was no disrespect. So let me give you clarity so we can all see through this annoying haze. I can confirm, that I have seen the one you've described not so long ago," By saying this and nothing more; Alexander had sent the ball back into the Cardinal's court.
Sir Alexander Beathen- Elisium928
- Posts : 325
Join date : 2015-04-30
Age : 32
Location : England
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Considering their conversation, her suspicions were confirmed. Really, the end result would be what was said moving on. Certainly, her entrance, although rather basic, probably would've shocked both sides, perhaps the new faces more, considering she was the only 'heathen' among them.
"She likely left with Mark Space, I don't see him here either, though I guess at this point I don't need to look for him. Conjecture, though." She turned to Alex and the others. "Sorry for the intrusion on this meetup of yours, I'm sure you recognize my voice, anyway. I was there with Longroad while he uh...hung up on you. I'm sure everyone would've wished things went more smoothly."
Certainly, if that didn't happen, she wouldn't have to re-explain the situation.
"And as I understand it, you're looking for Francesca Purezza and likely me as well, yes? I figure the priest I ran into earlier was with you." They certainly fit the bill. A group of people from the church looking for Francesca Purezza for the reason of slighting God in some way they imagine. The question was whether or not it was possible to settle this peacefully.
"I'm sure you know why so many groups have come to this city, yes? Well, it seems an actual lead has been found. I was on my way to investigate it, if you want to join me. I imagine once someone shows up there, things will go south quickly. It is an strange convenience that I so happened to run into...what seems to be thirty, fourty people, on my way there, but I'll take whatever I can get." She spoke to both parties. Understandably this issue with her and Francesca certainly bothered this church group, but certainly the real reason everyone was here would be the core issue? If all of the magicians had satisfied their curiosity and left, then the amount of chaos placed on Whitby would cease, and whatever business they needed to attend to would be easier. The only easy thing about the situation was the fact that people were close, but considering modern conveniences that was hardly a benefit at all.
Would they play ball, or are they simply too blind to see the opportunity?
"She likely left with Mark Space, I don't see him here either, though I guess at this point I don't need to look for him. Conjecture, though." She turned to Alex and the others. "Sorry for the intrusion on this meetup of yours, I'm sure you recognize my voice, anyway. I was there with Longroad while he uh...hung up on you. I'm sure everyone would've wished things went more smoothly."
Certainly, if that didn't happen, she wouldn't have to re-explain the situation.
"And as I understand it, you're looking for Francesca Purezza and likely me as well, yes? I figure the priest I ran into earlier was with you." They certainly fit the bill. A group of people from the church looking for Francesca Purezza for the reason of slighting God in some way they imagine. The question was whether or not it was possible to settle this peacefully.
"I'm sure you know why so many groups have come to this city, yes? Well, it seems an actual lead has been found. I was on my way to investigate it, if you want to join me. I imagine once someone shows up there, things will go south quickly. It is an strange convenience that I so happened to run into...what seems to be thirty, fourty people, on my way there, but I'll take whatever I can get." She spoke to both parties. Understandably this issue with her and Francesca certainly bothered this church group, but certainly the real reason everyone was here would be the core issue? If all of the magicians had satisfied their curiosity and left, then the amount of chaos placed on Whitby would cease, and whatever business they needed to attend to would be easier. The only easy thing about the situation was the fact that people were close, but considering modern conveniences that was hardly a benefit at all.
Would they play ball, or are they simply too blind to see the opportunity?
Albrekka Starbright- Caelestis088
- Posts : 113
Join date : 2016-05-31
Age : 35
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Stiff? Sara could say she was far from stiff. If anything, the correct words to describe her at that moment would have probably been confused and stumbling. Making a deal with the Russians was far from an easy task.
After all, they had skirted around the topic quite a bit.
Scratching her head and closing her eyes, for a moment, she pondered Vasilisa’s and Sasha’s insistence that she sit down and relax. Though no matter how she sliced it, she could not think of a single to refuse the offer. After all, she came to negotiate. Standing up and staring at the opposing party from above was hardly a good way to negotiate. Those subtle changes could lead to a different impression on the other party.
If anything, Sara was more focused on wondering she had yet to pull up a seat, herself, before this.
I probably just got caught up in the atmosphere too quickly.
That was all she needed to cut out any of her initial worries. She took her hood off her head, letting it hang back, and pulled up a chair to sit down in.
“I guess I’ll take you up on that offer,” she said with a childish grin.
After letting her back and butt sink into the cushions, she picked up the tea she had been offered and let the scent waft to her nose.
Some herbal tea?
Her question was quickly answered once she took a sip of the tea. It was an earthy, floral sort of sweet taste with hints of apple in it. Without a doubt, it was some decent chamomile tea, though it could have used a little more sweetness. While she put her cup down on the table and reached for a container of honey and spoon to stir with, her eyes continued to dart at the girl in a bondage outfit continuing to pour—was it brandy...vodka—some sort of alcohol into her tea.
Sara was unable to help but wonder how much of the tea had been diluted in favor of the spirit she was drinking and—“Is that amount of alcohol safe for someone her size?”
Sara could hardly find it in herself to ask that directly to Sasha so she ended up asking Vasilisa herself.
But after asking that, she realized exactly how off-topic she may have gotten. Not wanting to be pulled into the Russian’s almost casual flow (as much as she enjoyed that casual flow), she spoke up once again, in hopes that she may get to steer the negotiations in a proper direction.
With a smile on her face, zero tension in her muscles, and a cup of honeyed chamomile tea in her hand, she asked, “So, what’s your opinion on a possible alliance?”
After all, they had skirted around the topic quite a bit.
Scratching her head and closing her eyes, for a moment, she pondered Vasilisa’s and Sasha’s insistence that she sit down and relax. Though no matter how she sliced it, she could not think of a single to refuse the offer. After all, she came to negotiate. Standing up and staring at the opposing party from above was hardly a good way to negotiate. Those subtle changes could lead to a different impression on the other party.
If anything, Sara was more focused on wondering she had yet to pull up a seat, herself, before this.
I probably just got caught up in the atmosphere too quickly.
That was all she needed to cut out any of her initial worries. She took her hood off her head, letting it hang back, and pulled up a chair to sit down in.
“I guess I’ll take you up on that offer,” she said with a childish grin.
After letting her back and butt sink into the cushions, she picked up the tea she had been offered and let the scent waft to her nose.
Some herbal tea?
Her question was quickly answered once she took a sip of the tea. It was an earthy, floral sort of sweet taste with hints of apple in it. Without a doubt, it was some decent chamomile tea, though it could have used a little more sweetness. While she put her cup down on the table and reached for a container of honey and spoon to stir with, her eyes continued to dart at the girl in a bondage outfit continuing to pour—was it brandy...vodka—some sort of alcohol into her tea.
Sara was unable to help but wonder how much of the tea had been diluted in favor of the spirit she was drinking and—“Is that amount of alcohol safe for someone her size?”
Sara could hardly find it in herself to ask that directly to Sasha so she ended up asking Vasilisa herself.
But after asking that, she realized exactly how off-topic she may have gotten. Not wanting to be pulled into the Russian’s almost casual flow (as much as she enjoyed that casual flow), she spoke up once again, in hopes that she may get to steer the negotiations in a proper direction.
With a smile on her face, zero tension in her muscles, and a cup of honeyed chamomile tea in her hand, she asked, “So, what’s your opinion on a possible alliance?”
Saravati Nair- Volare723
- Posts : 144
Join date : 2017-01-19
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
“I guess I’ll take you up on that offer.”
Vasilisa gave a sweet smile as Sara's acquiesced to her request at last, but curiously this caused Sasha's eyes to shine with fear from behind her bangs as she vacated her previously comfortable posture to sit as far back in her seat as she could.
It's chamomile. It's not bad, but you really should have come the other day, Sara-chan. When we first found this shop we tried the house special, and my, it was delicious. But just this morning they ran all out... The poor manager was even in tears over it!" she said.
Looking at the surrounding patrons, all Annihilatus members and all drinking tea, it was easy to imagine that the manager's tears weren't quite over what Vasilisa implied, but the woman herself gave no indication of realizing that. Her tone indicated nothing but regret that they had run out of their best tea.
“Is that amount of alcohol safe for someone her size?”
"My first response: it is unwise to assume another's strength from their appearance. Also, speaking as if someone is not there is quite rude," Sasha said ignoring the person to whom the question had been directed.
"My second suggestion: add some brandy to your tea. It can make even the worst cups palatable."
"That's my Sasha-chan!" cooed Vasilisa. "So hospitable to our guests! Ah, I'm going to have to reward you later. Let's see, what do you think about goth lo-"
In the middle of her sentence just as stars began to dance in her eyes, Vasilisa made a grunt (or something approaching one) of pain entirely unbefitting for a human being, much less a woman. The cause had clearly been a very eery and very real snapping sound that had come from under the table.
The residents of the room all paused for a moment at the noise, but quickly resumed their previous activity. The only difference from before was that all they seemed a small bit cheerier than they had before.
Vasilisa did not stay down for long, however. "S-So violent, Sasha-chan! You really do need to fix that bad habit of yours!" Her expression was a bit tense at first, but after a moment even that melted away to her usual cheery calm.
"Ah, but you're just as bad, Sara-chan. I was just getting fired up for some girls' talk, but you're just trying to dredge that musty old thing back up again! A girl like you should be doing better things with your time, like trying out cute clothes, or chatting about that boy you like... Oh! Hey, hey, who do you like?"
Sara's most recent attempt at bringing the conversation back on track had in fact been spoken at some point in the midst of Vasilisa's suffering and been completely overshadowed, but it seemed that despite suffering pain of that level her attentiveness had not wavered. Truly a terrifying host.
Vasilisa gave a sweet smile as Sara's acquiesced to her request at last, but curiously this caused Sasha's eyes to shine with fear from behind her bangs as she vacated her previously comfortable posture to sit as far back in her seat as she could.
It's chamomile. It's not bad, but you really should have come the other day, Sara-chan. When we first found this shop we tried the house special, and my, it was delicious. But just this morning they ran all out... The poor manager was even in tears over it!" she said.
Looking at the surrounding patrons, all Annihilatus members and all drinking tea, it was easy to imagine that the manager's tears weren't quite over what Vasilisa implied, but the woman herself gave no indication of realizing that. Her tone indicated nothing but regret that they had run out of their best tea.
“Is that amount of alcohol safe for someone her size?”
"My first response: it is unwise to assume another's strength from their appearance. Also, speaking as if someone is not there is quite rude," Sasha said ignoring the person to whom the question had been directed.
"My second suggestion: add some brandy to your tea. It can make even the worst cups palatable."
"That's my Sasha-chan!" cooed Vasilisa. "So hospitable to our guests! Ah, I'm going to have to reward you later. Let's see, what do you think about goth lo-"
In the middle of her sentence just as stars began to dance in her eyes, Vasilisa made a grunt (or something approaching one) of pain entirely unbefitting for a human being, much less a woman. The cause had clearly been a very eery and very real snapping sound that had come from under the table.
The residents of the room all paused for a moment at the noise, but quickly resumed their previous activity. The only difference from before was that all they seemed a small bit cheerier than they had before.
Vasilisa did not stay down for long, however. "S-So violent, Sasha-chan! You really do need to fix that bad habit of yours!" Her expression was a bit tense at first, but after a moment even that melted away to her usual cheery calm.
"Ah, but you're just as bad, Sara-chan. I was just getting fired up for some girls' talk, but you're just trying to dredge that musty old thing back up again! A girl like you should be doing better things with your time, like trying out cute clothes, or chatting about that boy you like... Oh! Hey, hey, who do you like?"
Sara's most recent attempt at bringing the conversation back on track had in fact been spoken at some point in the midst of Vasilisa's suffering and been completely overshadowed, but it seemed that despite suffering pain of that level her attentiveness had not wavered. Truly a terrifying host.
_________________
Lean Mean Occasionally-Evaluating Machine
• [Arc IV] Between the Lines • [SS] Hazy Silhouette • [SS] Unknown Magnitude Serial Catastrophe • [SS] Vagrant By Any Other Name: A Match Made in Hell •
Ideas to a good home!
Unused Idea Board
• [Arc IV] Between the Lines • [SS] Hazy Silhouette • [SS] Unknown Magnitude Serial Catastrophe • [SS] Vagrant By Any Other Name: A Match Made in Hell •
Ideas to a good home!
Unused Idea Board
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Only a moment later Erin Lightheart and Nate Fours parted ways. One left the building through the very entrance they had originally used to intrude the cash milking museum, the other waited a bit inside only to then settle on taking the main entrance for the exit.
However it was not Nate Fours’s tale that mattered in any way…
Just as she took the first step back into the chilly night air accentuated by the port town’s salty freshness, the detective girl in 19th century military uniform would become victim to what was a sudden pull.
As though as an arm had reached out for her, she had been pulled away from her predestined path, straight into the shadowy depths of the dark unlit alley, disappearing from the light of the world just like that.
Yet, even though she may have disappeared to the eyes of an onlooker, she in fact had just entered a place more secluded from these than any other. Much like a different world, just still in our reality. It had been the true depths of the small paths that ran between buildings, a space nobody would see if in the light, yet would become visible once one’s eyes adjusted by a moment’s passing.
The girl would in fact find a hand wrapped around her arm, along with another covering her mouth, hastily yet gently, a request for silence.
Black gloves of fine fabric, quite long, covering the entirety of the quite delicate underarm, transitioning into purely white skin, so pale and yet so noble. Black hair and victorian age evening dress torn at places with a cape flung around her neck to cover her shoulders. Those yellow eyes piercing through the darkness, like those of a cat, drew all attention to the silent beauty’s wonderful face.
It would take only that to identify the sudden attacker.
Her name was Millinda Blackwater.
Tranquil as always, the atmosphere around her remained as calm as ever. However, even now her eyes were communicating a different message. Her glance once it met that of Erin, would wander off into the distance, towards the entrance to their alley. There a couple of priests passed by. Holy men surrounded by the most unholy of spirits. No matter the distance, their dreadful intent was clear as day…
And it seemed as though, with their heads turning left and right, they were in search of someone.
Of whom you ask? Is it that hard to read the signs?
However it was not Nate Fours’s tale that mattered in any way…
Just as she took the first step back into the chilly night air accentuated by the port town’s salty freshness, the detective girl in 19th century military uniform would become victim to what was a sudden pull.
As though as an arm had reached out for her, she had been pulled away from her predestined path, straight into the shadowy depths of the dark unlit alley, disappearing from the light of the world just like that.
Yet, even though she may have disappeared to the eyes of an onlooker, she in fact had just entered a place more secluded from these than any other. Much like a different world, just still in our reality. It had been the true depths of the small paths that ran between buildings, a space nobody would see if in the light, yet would become visible once one’s eyes adjusted by a moment’s passing.
The girl would in fact find a hand wrapped around her arm, along with another covering her mouth, hastily yet gently, a request for silence.
Black gloves of fine fabric, quite long, covering the entirety of the quite delicate underarm, transitioning into purely white skin, so pale and yet so noble. Black hair and victorian age evening dress torn at places with a cape flung around her neck to cover her shoulders. Those yellow eyes piercing through the darkness, like those of a cat, drew all attention to the silent beauty’s wonderful face.
It would take only that to identify the sudden attacker.
Her name was Millinda Blackwater.
Tranquil as always, the atmosphere around her remained as calm as ever. However, even now her eyes were communicating a different message. Her glance once it met that of Erin, would wander off into the distance, towards the entrance to their alley. There a couple of priests passed by. Holy men surrounded by the most unholy of spirits. No matter the distance, their dreadful intent was clear as day…
And it seemed as though, with their heads turning left and right, they were in search of someone.
Of whom you ask? Is it that hard to read the signs?
Re: [SS] Hazy Silhouette
Once the Priests had moved on, Erin breathed again and moved away from Millinda. There was nought but a casual glance in the woman's direction once all was said and done. As though the detective had been expecting this turn of events. It wasn't exactly hard to figure out someone would approach her sooner or later.
"There you are. What took you so long? Why not tell me what's going on so we're all on the same page? I presume your beloved is involved in some way, which is why you're trying so hard."
They couldn't stay in this alley forever. Not just because they might eventually be found, but because she had a mission. It all depended on Millinda's willingness to go along with it.
"We can't stay here. You can tell me, or rather, write down everything on the way."
"There you are. What took you so long? Why not tell me what's going on so we're all on the same page? I presume your beloved is involved in some way, which is why you're trying so hard."
They couldn't stay in this alley forever. Not just because they might eventually be found, but because she had a mission. It all depended on Millinda's willingness to go along with it.
"We can't stay here. You can tell me, or rather, write down everything on the way."
Erin Lightheart- Primiceriatus999
- Posts : 167
Join date : 2016-05-14
Location : London, England / Caernarfon, Wales
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