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Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Posted by The KeeperFor group 0
The Keeper
GM, 1218 posts
Thu 22 Dec 2016
at 22:34
  • msg #1

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

The Penhew Foundation
35 Tottenham Court Road
Friday Night/Saturday Morning
January 31st, 1925


Showing up earlier in the afternoon gave Vincent, Tommy, and Rosalie ample opportunity to conduct surveillance of the Penhew Foundation. An eight foot high wrought iron fence surrounded the compound in which the building was located, parted by a front and a rear gate. The rear gate provided easy access to the loading docks. The front gate admitted visitor vehicles and pedestrians, who seemed to check in at the gate house quickly before being admitted. During the day the loading area was fairly busy with activity, and late in the afternoon, all vehicles seemed to depart loaded with crates, leaving that area rather quiet during the remainder of the day. From the front entrance, visitors came at a slow but steady pace, reasonable for an academic foundation.

Nearing 5:00 pm, a woman with cleaning equipment arrived. Around 5:30, both visitors and staff seemed to leave the building in something of an exodus. A half hour after closing a black Rolls Royce arrived, and a well dressed gentleman exited the building, having a seat in the rear of the car, which proceeded to depart. After that  vehicle left, so did the guard at the front gate, locking the padlock on the gate behind him. Predictably the building was much quieter after hours, with no comings or goings. From the outside, they could make out the steady pacing of a guard inside from the way they could see the flashlight moving around the building. He made one round around the first floor, then one round around the second floor, and then returned to make a round around the first floor, moving in a clockwise rotation. The exterior of the building was not particularly well lit, save for the area near the front entrance.

The neighborhood where the Penhew Foundation building was located was largely residential, and there was a police call box not a block away from the foundation building.

They returned to the hotel, rested up, packed their supplies, and returned much later that night to attempt to get a...closer look at the Penhew Foundation building.



OOC:

I've hopefully addressed all your questions - at least to the degree you'd be able to actually observe. If there's something you think I've missed or that you would like to know, feel free to ask. Worst I can say is no!

Tommy, the folding camera would be small enough to tote around if you want. Not sure how good your lighting is going to be though; conditions will be non ideal so I will be asking for Photography skill checks

What time are you all arriving? Feel free to open up posting at your leisure.

Also give me a Hide or Sneak check just in case - with Advantage for your preparations.


This message was last edited by the GM at 22:35, Thu 22 Dec 2016.
Rosalie Elias
player, 297 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Sat 24 Dec 2016
at 08:13
  • msg #2

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Upon their return, Rosalie sat in the backseat of the car, gazing out the window at the foundation.  She'd checked her bag twice already, but couldn't help but check it again.  Nerves were getting the better of her despite their preparations.  Leaning forward toward the men, she rested one gloved hand on the back of Tommy's seat.  "So what do you figure?  The back gate near the docks?  The front seems better lit than the back.  We could try to pick the lock, or cut it, if anyone brought bolt cutters.  The fence seems a bit high, but still might be climbable."


Sneak: 54
Hide: 17


01:03, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 111 using 2d100 with rolls of 57,54.  Sneak (30).
01:03, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 107 using 2d100 with rolls of 90,17.  Hide (30).

Vincent Moretti
player, 290 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Tue 27 Dec 2016
at 07:16
  • msg #3

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Staring at the Penhew Foundation, Moretti was suddenly sixteen again, getting ready to break into Bill Mahoney's warehouse, standing in a Hell's Kitchen alley at midnight with a thirty year old Ray Spano, the January New York chill gnawing at his chest.

After regarding the entrance of the aging building for a long moment, Spano had turned his attention to Moretti.
"You nervous, kid?" He asked, his breath steaming in the winter air.

Moretti had just nodded, his mouth too dry for words.

Spano shrugged. "Working for the family, it's not the last time you're going to go somewhere you don't belong, or take something that doesn't belong to you. All part of the business."

Spano had eyed Morettii sternly, the lines of his rawboned features even sharper in the dim light. "I could give you some kind of encouragement. Tell you it all gets easier the more you do it. But I don't want to feed you a bunch of false sunshine. Will your nerves steady out? Sure. Eventually. That part'll get easier."

Glancing back at the warehouse, Spano said, "Thing is, you've seen enough now, you know what this life is. What it's about. You and me? We're just tools. Kept around when we're useful. Tossed to the street when we're not. This kind of job? This is the exact sort of work that gets you killed. Eventually, you walk in the wrong place, mess with the wrong guy's people or property and you're gone. Good news is, the way most of us do business, you'll never see it coming. You'll just be dead."

"It's the life you agreed to. Better to accept it now, swallow the medicine, and put the worry behind you. Whatever you joined this outfit for, money, security, influence, you'll get it. But we soldati... we don't get old. And we don't get remembered. Nobody's going to show up with flowers at the potter's field. I know I sound harsh kid, but it's better you get rid of any illusions now. They'll only trip you up in the end."


Spano had motioned for Moretti to follow him. "Let's get this done."

Rosalie's observations drew Moretti from his memories. He considered what she had said quietly, regarding the stately building with a frown.

"I honestly think the rear entrance is the better route," he said quietly. "With all these homes nearby, it's hard to guess who might look out their window at the wrong time. I'd bet that some of the neighbors know the faces of the staff who usually come and go."

He studied the windows, watching the flicker of the watchman's flashlight. "That guard looks pretty diligent about his rounds. We may have to help him take a nap if we want to get a good look at both floors."

01:09, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 61 using 1d100 with rolls of 61.  Stealth - Stealth 80%.
Thomas Cotton
player, 391 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Thu 29 Dec 2016
at 22:18
  • msg #4

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy watched quietly while the others spoke.
"Aye...just the one guard.".
He suppressed a frown, an itch of concern. One guard meant this place didn't matter...which meant...
I hope the others are ok.

Now wasn't the time for doubts and with a determined nod he reached for the door handle.
"Back door it is. Give me a minute.".
One figure was less notable than three after all.

With a glance up and down the road he slipped from the car and hurried through the shadows to crouch beside the heavy black gate. Heart beating faster he stumbled against the gate like some drunk, whilst his hands went to work on the lock.


22:13, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 14 using 1d100 with rolls of 14.  Lock.
22:13, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 47 using 1d100 with rolls of 47. Stealth.

Vincent Moretti
player, 292 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 29 Dec 2016
at 23:50
  • msg #5

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti gave a silent mental count of two hundred, then glanced back at Rosalie. "Let's go," he said quietly, "Either he's in, or he needs help."

Stepping out of the car, he followed Cotton's route, keeping to the densest pools of shadow he could find, checking back frequently to ensure that Rosalie was close behind.

When he reached the reporter, he grinned, seeing that the gate lock was open, and patted him on the shoulder. "You want my opinion, paisan," he whispered, "when this is all done, you should just do one good jewel heist and retire to the Caribbean."

His expression shifted to a frown. "Tommy, before we take another step, I need you to promise me something. Remember that discussion we had in the alley, before we went into al-Sayed's shop? What you were going to do if things started to go wrong? That goes double here. Capisce? This goes bad, the only thing you concern yourself with is getting Rosalie and yourself somewhere safe. I need your word."

He pushed the gate open a crack, taking a moment to study the back of the building.

17:16, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 43 using 1d100 with rolls of 43.  Stealth - Stealth 80%.

17:40, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 60 using 1d100 with rolls of 60.  Spot Hidden - Spot Hidden 60%.

Rosalie Elias
player, 299 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Fri 30 Dec 2016
at 05:45
  • msg #6

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie followed Vincent, trying not to look too suspicious to anyone that happened to be glancing their way.  In her long dress, fitted coat, cloche hat and gloves, she certainly wasn't dressed like a thief, but she'd specifically chosen darker colors that blended well with the night.  She paused at the gate, a bit surprised that the reporter had cracked it without breaking a sweat.

"Nicely done," she murmured with a smile.  A surge of adrenaline shot through her as Vincent opened the gate a fraction.  "Anyone?"  Her attention flitted briefly to the windows, searching for any hint of movement from above.  They had seen the guard's light, but wouldn't exactly notice a figure standing and watching them in a dark room.  Don't be silly.  You're just a bit paranoid.  Not every day that you go breaking into a building where they're holding museum quality artifacts. 



22:45, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 96 using 1d100 with rolls of 96.  Spot Hidden (55).
The Keeper
GM, 1222 posts
Fri 30 Dec 2016
at 15:06
  • msg #7

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy's deft hands and skill with the lockpicks resulted in success, with the padlock of the gate easily coming open within his grasp, just moments before Vincent and Rosalie came to join him there. They found each other there in a pocket of deep darkness that their eyes had adjusted to. Looking over at the foundation, they could see the path of the flashlight bearing guardsman within the building appeared to continue unabated. There were no signs that their presence had been noticed.
Vincent Moretti
player, 294 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Mon 2 Jan 2017
at 07:13
  • msg #8

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti spent a few minutes in quiet concentration, watching the movement of the flashlight through the windows, getting a comfortable sense of the watchman's timing and movements. Almost like catching the rhythm of a favored song, like Jelly Roll Morton's King Porter Stomp. Gently patting his knee in time to the beat in his mind, Moretti eased the gate open as soon as the guard started upstairs. Moving quickly and quietly, he stepped over to the back door of the Foundation and set to work on the lock.

00:56, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 26 using 1d100 with rolls of 26.  Locksmith - Locksmith 70%.

00:56, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 67 using 1d100 with rolls of 67.  Stealth - Stealth 80%.

The Keeper
GM, 1226 posts
Tue 3 Jan 2017
at 19:05
  • msg #9

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

With a quick dash into the compound and around the building, Vincent slipped rapidly but quietly between the darkest patches of shadow before finding himself at the back door. With three quiet clicks followed by the telltale sound of a bolt sliding back, Vincent knew he had achieved success in unlocking the door.




OOC:
Tommy and Rosalie, please make another Stealth check to make it over to join Vincent at the back door.



This message was last edited by the GM at 02:02, Wed 04 Jan 2017.
Rosalie Elias
player, 301 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 4 Jan 2017
at 02:07
  • msg #10

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie took a breath and tried to follow Vincent, tried to copy his perfect stealthy cat-like movements through the dark, but she was no sneak-thief.  She tried desperately to be as quiet as a mouse, to even think quietly.  Perhaps it was her nervousness about breaking into the building in the first place, or perhaps she was paying more attention to what was ahead rather than was was underfoot.  Either way, she failed miserably.


18:53, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 100 using 1d100 with rolls of 100.  Stealth (60).
Vincent Moretti
player, 295 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Wed 4 Jan 2017
at 03:19
  • msg #11

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

When he heard the noise behind him, Moretti stood, positioning himself so he would be the first person seen if the back door was opened. He motioned for Rosalie and Cotton to move to the opposite side of the doorway, where they might escape being immediately noticed.

Quickly retrieving his flask, he splashed some of the liquor it held onto his face. Returning it, he dropped his right hand into his coat pocket, slipping his fingers into the brass knuckles he carried there.
Thomas Cotton
player, 392 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Thu 5 Jan 2017
at 03:04
  • msg #12

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

[Keeper Post]

Tommy winced as Rosalie dropped her flashlight, it clattering on the ground loudly into the silent night, but he took that moment as an opportunity to run towards the building, following Vincent's furious gestures to wait on the opposite side of the back door.



OOC:

Stealth: 51

20:03, Today: The Keeper, on behalf of Thomas Cotton, rolled 51 using 1d100 with rolls of 51.  Stealth (80).

Rosalie Elias
player, 302 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 5 Jan 2017
at 03:32
  • msg #13

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie snatched up her flashlight, silently cursing herself for being so clumsy.  Taking Tommy's lead, she scurried after, trying to make it to the side of the building before the guard was drawn to a window and could see them.  Gasping for breath once she reached the door, she fumbled for a moment with her bag.
Thomas Cotton
player, 394 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Thu 5 Jan 2017
at 07:54
  • msg #14

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Heart beating quicker now the reporter motioned for Rosalie to stand close by, tight to the wall with himself between the woman and the door. Unconsciously he held his breath as he looked up over his shoulder to scan the windows behind them for the telltale flash of the guard's torch.

Around them almost imperceptible tendrils of grey mist floated into the cold winter air as the trio waited in silence.

ooc
07:52, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 91 using 1d100 with rolls of 91.  Spot hidden vs 70.

The Keeper
GM, 1228 posts
Thu 5 Jan 2017
at 12:54
  • msg #15

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:
  • Rosalie, give me a Luck roll.


This message was last edited by the GM at 13:15, Thu 05 Jan 2017.
Rosalie Elias
player, 303 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 5 Jan 2017
at 14:33
  • msg #16

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

No luck!

07:32, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 92 using 1d100 with rolls of 92.  Luck (80).

The Keeper
GM, 1229 posts
Thu 5 Jan 2017
at 15:29
  • msg #17

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Vincent waited at the door, but heard no sound from the other end. Half a minute passed with no result. A full minute after Rosalie dropped her flashlight, there was still no response from within the Foundation.



OOC:

Alright, your failed Stealth and Luck give him a Listen roll, since he's at the other end of the building:

08:51, Today: The Keeper rolled 73 using 1d100 with rolls of 73.  Listen 55.

So no good for him.


Vincent Moretti
player, 296 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 5 Jan 2017
at 18:01
  • msg #18

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti let out a slow, even breath. Moving to the door, he eased it open a quarter of the way, peering down the hallway for any sign of movement.
The Keeper
GM, 1230 posts
Fri 6 Jan 2017
at 01:07
  • msg #19

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Down the hallway there's no sign of movement. The furthest end of the hallway at the other end of the building is lit, the light fading gradually towards the back door where Vincent peeked in. As his eyes adjust to the darkness he can see that immediately to his right there was the a staircase. A few feet further in on either side of the hallway there was an open door.
Rosalie Elias
player, 304 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Fri 6 Jan 2017
at 02:37
  • msg #20

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie sighed with relief after those long minutes of waiting, fearing that she'd bungled it all.  "So very sorry," she whispered, feeling quite embarrassed.  Peering inside, she gestured to the hall.  "Gavigan's office is just there.  We should have a look there first." 
Vincent Moretti
player, 297 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Fri 6 Jan 2017
at 03:47
  • msg #21

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti smiled. "Non preoccuparti, Rosalie," he replied quietly, "We didn't get caught. And that's all that matters. No harm done."

Nodding in agreement with her suggestion, he advanced quietly down the corridor to the door that led to the waiting area for Gavigan's office. When he reached it, he carefully tried the knob with a gloved hand.

OOC: Let me know if a Stealth roll (or any other roll) is needed, Keeper.
Thomas Cotton
player, 395 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Fri 6 Jan 2017
at 17:13
  • msg #22

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy smiled and gave Rosalie a wink. Instead of replying out loud he lifted a finger to his lips in a silent 'shhh' motion as his eyes twinkled under the dim yard lamp. Break-ins were exciting business.

Following the other two into the building the reporter carefully pulled the outer door closed behind them. His gloved palm muffled the beam of his flashlight as Tommy peered into the pair of open doors; if the rooms were dark and unoccupied he would risk briefly stepping inside each to see what the rooms held. Afterall, ff the alarm was sounded later it would do no harm to have some idea where to hide...and who knew where that mirror might be stashed.

ooc: does the staircase go up or down?
The Keeper
GM, 1231 posts
Fri 6 Jan 2017
at 17:26
  • msg #23

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]


OOC:

For reference, I'm going to say it's about 12:35 now (12:30 being when the guard did his last hourly round of the building, meaning you should expect the same at 1:30). 

Let's have another Stealth roll now to cover the next ten minutes. I'm going to abstract it such that a successful roll will cover whatever you guys do within 10 minutes, after which I'll ask for another Stealth roll, etc.

Vincent, you have Advantage in this situation.

Tommy: The staircase that you see near the back door leads upwards.

Rosalie Elias
player, 305 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Sat 7 Jan 2017
at 03:18
  • msg #24

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie followed Vincent, resting one hand on his shoulder as he paused.  This time, she made sure to have a good grip on her flashlight, which she'd switched off, and moved slowly to keep her boots from making any noise.  Chewing on her lower lip, she threw an uneasy glance at the guard station down the hall, afraid they might be seen in the shadowed hall.


20:14, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 58 using 1d100 with rolls of 58.  Stealth (60).

Vincent Moretti
player, 298 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Sat 7 Jan 2017
at 05:38
  • msg #25

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

When he reached the door, Moretti's eyes flicked back to Cotton. He watched briefly as the reporter scouted the other doorways, finding himself thankful for the young man's thoroughness and courage.

Returning his attention to the door, he felt Rosalie's hand on his shoulder. For an instant, a flush of self consciousness rose in him, a sudden desire for her, of all people, not to see him about this business which he had become so skilled at since his youth, to see him as educated and cultured, like the others in seeking answers about Jackson, not as the paltry sneak thief that he was.

Snapping his focus back to the present, he turned the knob to the waiting room door, slowly pushing it open, careful to keep the motion as quiet as possible. He paused, taking a moment to look for movement at the other end of the hallway, then led the way inside.

23:17, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 25 using 1d100 with rolls of 25.  Stealth - Stealth 80%.
The Keeper
GM, 1232 posts
Sat 7 Jan 2017
at 21:46
  • msg #26

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

When Vincent went for the doorknob, he found it wasn't there as he had expected it to be. As his eyes adjusted to the light, he found that the door was open. In fact, it struck him that the doors to the all the entrances he had seen so far had been left open, and that this is likely what allowed the guard to make such an efficient hourly patrol of the building.

Instead, they were able to simply walk into the waiting room without having to contest with a door. The room was narrow and long, sporting only a secretary's desk on his right, and to his left against the wall were a few chairs where people might presumably wait. Directly ahead, another door opened into the area Rosalie had indicated was Gavigan's office.
Rosalie Elias
player, 306 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Sun 8 Jan 2017
at 03:01
  • msg #27

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie followed Vincent in through the waiting area, then headed through to Gavigan's door and tried the knob.  Did he keep anything in his office worth locking up?
Vincent Moretti
player, 299 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Sun 8 Jan 2017
at 04:47
  • msg #28

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

As Rosalie approached Gavigan's office, Moretti remained just inside the waiting area, keeping watch on the hallway, listening for the watchman to resume his circuit through the building. When Cotton had finished checking the other open doorways, Moretti tried to catch the reporter's attention, motioning for him to join Rosalie so he could assist her in her search.
Thomas Cotton
player, 396 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Sun 8 Jan 2017
at 13:47
  • msg #29

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

While the others hurried through the shadows Tommy glanced in each of the open doors at the head of the corridor where they had entered. His flashlight danced briefly over whatever the rooms held before he hurried to join Roaslie in the office.


Ooc
I think Tommy took a peek in the first 2 doors briefly in msg 22. Only to see what the rooms generally are (stacked up with stuff for the yard? Library archives? Store rooms? Canteen etc?).

17:55, Fri 06 Jan: Thomas Cotton rolled 46 using 1d100 with rolls of 46.  Stealth.

The Keeper
GM, 1234 posts
Tue 10 Jan 2017
at 01:55
  • msg #30

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

When Rosalie went for the knob again, as her eyes adjusted to the darkness, she found that the door was open wide, just as had been the previous door. She realized that this would be the only way the single guard could make as efficient a patrol of the building as he had. If he had to continually close and lock each door, it would have been a much more troublesome, long, and laborious patrol than the one they had witnessed from outside as evidenced by the flashlight's movement through the buildng.

Evident here were the two chairs she had sat in with her uncle previously, and Gavigan's desk. Behind his desk were several closets, and along the walls were shelves that displayed various curios and relics that appeared to be of Egyptian origin on a cursory examination. The office was magnificently paneled, and like the rest of the building, it was opulently appointed. A strong, modern safe hung slightly ajar in the back corner of the room.




As Tommy walked in, he saw rooms to his left and his right. To his left, he saw what appeared to be an old storage room. Inside, there were many boxes and crates, old furniture, and so on. There was also an empty mummy case in poor condition laying there.

To his right, he saw a plain and undecorated room, save for a table and a couple of chairs.



OOC:

Yeah, I saw that. I was holding the results of your investigation hostage for everyone to post Stealth rolls. After all, what you would have been able to observe would have been markedly different if someone had accidentally raised the alarm.


Rosalie Elias
player, 307 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 11 Jan 2017
at 04:05
  • msg #31

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Inside Gavigan's office, Rosalie began to explore.  If the safe was open, it certainly wouldn't contain the priceless mirror, but she thought the man might have some other hidden chamber within.  She checked the safe, just to make certain, and then took a tour of the other walls and furniture, seeking anything out of place or curious.


21:04, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 99 using 1d100 with rolls of 99.  Spot Hidden (55).
Vincent Moretti
player, 300 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Wed 11 Jan 2017
at 05:11
  • msg #32

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Keeping his own flashlight off, Moretti focused his gaze on the dark hallway, letting his eyes become adjusted to the gloom. It was a familiar position, being the lookout. It was one way he'd first earned some standing in Masseria's organization. The key was to stay focused, even when you knew the routines of the people watching a place. Schedules could change on a whim. The need for a restroom, a craving for a cigarette or a cup of coffee, anything could alter a habit. And the one time you didn't pay attention was the time you got caught.

He glanced over his shoulder, just to reassure himself that Rosalie and Tommy were well, before resuming his watch. Although he tried to disregard it, the irony of doing the same kind of work he'd done for Joe the Boss for the Elias family was inescapable. He certainly wasn't the sort you would normally invite to a social gathering of upstanding people, or even the kind that would ordinarily stay at a place like the Savoy. But when you needed work like this done, he was who you called. At least while you needed him.

OOC: Wasn't sure if these were needed, Keeper, but...

23:06, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 33 using 1d100 with rolls of 33.  Spot Hidden - Spot Hidden 60%

23:05, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 57 using 1d100 with rolls of 57.  Listen - Listen 25%.

Thomas Cotton
player, 398 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Wed 11 Jan 2017
at 08:32
  • msg #33

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

As quickly as his torch flashed over the items in the rooms it was hidden again and Tommy hurried to join the others. With a silent nod to the crouched shadow of Vincent he slipped into the office with a whisper.
"Got a store room and something like a staff room back there. Mirror could be in the room on the left as you enter.".

Trusting that Vincent had their back the reporter moved into Gavigan's main office. The open doors were a boon and a curse. Nothing to block their path at least, but it made their activities in the room all the more risky. It wasn't like they could close the door behind them.

With Rosalie ahead of him already examining the safe Tommy got to work on the desk and closets.

ooc - Since Vincent insists on rolling, so do I ;)
08:13, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 56 using 1d100 with rolls of 56.  Listen vs 65.
08:12, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 82 using 1d100 with rolls of 82.  Spot hidden vs 70.

The Keeper
GM, 1236 posts
Wed 11 Jan 2017
at 16:16
  • msg #34

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

The safe was generally empty, save for a bundled packet of five pound notes. Otherwise, Rosalie's search was generally inefficient, not finding much of anything of interest. Tommy fared no better. 

Vincent's post was generally quiet. He could hear little from down the hall, save the occasional telltale rustling sound of a newspaper page being turned, and from within the room could only hear the soft sounds of Tommy and Rosalie moving around.
Thomas Cotton
player, 399 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Wed 11 Jan 2017
at 23:29
  • msg #35

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

His hands turning over seemingly meaningless ornaments and papers, Tommy frowned. He was making no progress, and worse as Rosaline swung the safe open he saw its yawning emptiness.
Were they in the wrong place?

Frustrated he returned to Vincent.<small> "The office is a dead end. Make sure I missed nothing, then I say we check the store room.".</blue>
Vincent Moretti
player, 301 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 12 Jan 2017
at 01:10
  • msg #36

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti nodded at Cotton's assessment. As the reporter replaced him at his post, he walked back to the office, halting in the doorway to observe the room as a whole, pausing to study the walls, the position of the safe and furniture, and the furnishings themselves.

As he did, he allowed his true self to take hold. Not the college educated importer who could make polite conversation over cocktails, but the criminal he had been since his teens, the man who stole, schemed, and hurt people. I am a thief. Where would a cautious person hide their valuables, to prevent one like me from finding them?

He made a slow circle of the office, checking the paneled walls and shelves, looking for the hidden, rather than the obvious. He perused the desk, examining the length and depth of each drawer, feeling about for concealed switches. He studied the safe, half persuaded that the exposed money suggested there was nothing to find, but equally convinced that the funds could be mere bait to satiate someone who was in a hurry. Lastly, he went through each of the closets, inspecting the walls as thoroughly as the contents.

18:31, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 47 using 1d100 with rolls of 47.  Spot Hidden - Spot Hidden 60%.
The Keeper
GM, 1237 posts
Thu 12 Jan 2017
at 01:24
  • msg #37

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Over the course of Vincent's careful examination of the room, as he is investigating the center closet in the back wall of Gavigan's office, his hands find a latch. A slight amount of pressure causes the back of the center closet to pop open into the room behind this room - an old storage room. Inside, there were many boxes and crates, old furniture, and so on. He could also make out an empty mummy case in poor condition laying there.
Rosalie Elias
player, 308 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 12 Jan 2017
at 02:09
  • msg #38

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie wasn't at all surprised that Vincent discovered the hidden latch.  His talents ranged in that direction and she was ever in awe of the skills he'd appropriated during his career.  Peering through the hidden door, she arched a brow.  "This looks far too large to be a hidden room full of private antiquities."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:00, Thu 12 Jan 2017.
Vincent Moretti
player, 303 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 12 Jan 2017
at 04:56
  • msg #39

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti peered at the concealed door with curiosity. "You're right. I think this is the same storage area Tommy saw just a few moments ago," he said. "I just wonder why Gavigan would want to have a secret means to access it from his office?"

Stepping over to the office door, he motioned for Cotton to join him and Rosalie.
Vincent Moretti
player, 304 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Mon 16 Jan 2017
at 06:11
  • msg #40

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Returning his attention to the storage room, Moretti stepped inside. Cupping his hand over the top of his flashlight, he shone the muted beam over the room's contents, looking for any crates that appeared new, or that bore markings that seemed unusual, as he made his way to his post at the door that opened to the central hallway.

00:08, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 40 using 1d100 with rolls of 40.  Spot Hidden - Spot Hidden 60%.
Thomas Cotton
player, 400 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Mon 16 Jan 2017
at 14:11
  • msg #41

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Seeing Vincent motion for him to follow, the reporter slid away from his post at the hallway door to re-enter Gavigan's study.
A secret panel, how very fun.
Intrigued Tommy followed the others in to it, running his fingers along the wall with interest
as they entered the adjoining room where he began to aid carefully examining the crates that lay within.

Quietly he hissed to Vincent.
"How do I close it?". If the guard came prowling it wouldn't do to leave signs of their exploration. For now though they still had time.
Hopefully.

ooc: 14:10, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 23 using 1d100 with rolls of 23.  Spot hidden vs 70.
Rosalie Elias
player, 309 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Tue 17 Jan 2017
at 04:42
  • msg #42

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie began prowling through the storage room, searching for anything that could be he size and shape of the mirror described in her historical study.  Trying to be careful not to disturb anything, she covered as much as she dared.


21:41, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 23 using 1d100 with rolls of 23.  Spot Hidden (55).
The Keeper
GM, 1242 posts
Tue 17 Jan 2017
at 18:17
  • msg #43

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Walking in through the closet into the storage room, Tommy, Vincent, and Rosalie got a better look. The room was dusty and mostly filled with boxes, crates, and old furniture. The only thing that stood out in the room was an old mummy case in rather poor condition laying in the back of the room. 

Further examination of the mummy case revealed that it seemed set apart from everything else by itself, and as they shone their flashlights on the floor around it, they could see that there was a circular section on the floor surrounding the sarcophagus, and that this area was noticeably less dusty than other parts of the room. There also seemed to be something odd about the eyes on the mummy case, as if they had been altered from the original. 


OOC:

Time Check:
5 minutes until next Stealth check
50 minutes until next guard patrol

Vincent Moretti
player, 305 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Tue 17 Jan 2017
at 21:48
  • msg #44

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Recognizing that Cotton was right to be cautious, Moretti stepped back through the concealed door into Gavigan's office. He quietly pushed the false back to the closet closed and secured the latch. Stepping away, he glanced over the closet's contents, making certain that nothing appeared out of place as a result of their passage.

Once he was satisfied, he moved back through the office to the secretary's area, looking out into the hallway, checking to be sure that the watchman was still in his place and the corridor was free of activity. Once he was satisfied, he moved through the hall and entered the storage area, joining the others to examine the mummy case.
Rosalie Elias
player, 310 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 18 Jan 2017
at 05:02
  • msg #45

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie squatted for a closer look at the mummy case, wondering about the alterations in the eyes.  She searched for a way to open it or a latch that might reveal something hidden.  The circular area also made her curious.  She pushed on the case to see if moved freely or was on a hinge.
The Keeper
GM, 1243 posts
Wed 18 Jan 2017
at 05:18
  • msg #46

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Pushing against the sarcophagus, Rosalie found that it wouldn't budge. Even a woman of her strength should have been able to move it, but it seemed strangely fixed in place.



OOC:

Give me an Idea roll.

Rosalie Elias
player, 311 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 18 Jan 2017
at 05:42
  • msg #47

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

22:42, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 46 using 1d100 with rolls of 46.  Idea (75).
The Keeper
GM, 1244 posts
Wed 18 Jan 2017
at 05:48
  • msg #48

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

PM
Rosalie Elias
player, 312 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 18 Jan 2017
at 05:49
  • msg #49

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Reaching for the eyes on the case, she put her thumbs on them both and pushed.
The Keeper
GM, 1245 posts
Wed 18 Jan 2017
at 16:26
  • msg #50

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

After Rosalie depressed the eyes on the sarcophagus, she could hear a muffled humming sound coming from below her. It wasn't loud, though in the quiet of the night, it might have seemed so for a moment, though it was short. The mummy case slid outward at an angle, and the light from their flashlight revealed a narrow set of stairs that led below.
Vincent Moretti
player, 306 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Wed 18 Jan 2017
at 17:57
  • msg #51

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"In sospeso, Rosalie," Moretti whispered as the staircase was revealed. Though he had never told her as much, and likely never would, Rosalie's sharp intellect was one of her qualities that he deeply admired, and was mildly intimidated by.

Gazing down the narrow steps, his thoughts immediately went to Harlem and whatever unknown horror had resided in the covered pit, hungry for sacrifice. He couldn't know what might await them in the dark, but he was certain that they had to investigate. Many hands had gone to great trouble to conceal the place, which meant that whatever was below was well worth keeping secret. Suddenly, the concealed entrance to the room from Gavigan's office made sense. It allowed the curator to access this stairwell at his leisure.

Certain that Cotton was as aware of the low hum from below as he, Moretti exchanged a look with the reporter. He tapped his own chest and nodded toward the open door to the hallway, signifying that he was going to go check to see if the sound had attracted attention. Moving quietly, he stepped over to the doorway and peered out into the adjoining corridor.
The Keeper
GM, 1246 posts
Wed 18 Jan 2017
at 18:36
  • msg #52

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Venturing over to the hallway, Vincent could see that all seemed quiet. The crinkling sound of turning newspaper pages could be heard, as it seemed the guard was flipping through them at a pace, then stopping. Still, there was no indication of anyone moving towards them or that they had attracted any attention.
Vincent Moretti
player, 307 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 19 Jan 2017
at 01:02
  • msg #53

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti returned to the newly revealed staircase. Switching his flashlight to his left hand, he drew his handgun. He looked at Rosalie and Cotton, his expression thoughtful.

"If neither of you objects, I'll take the lead," he said softly, "It might be best if the two of you hung back a few paces, in case anything...unexpected happens."

He shook his head. "I'm not questioning your courage. I know how brave you both are. And I'm not playing at being a hero."  He grinned. "No one who knows me would believe it anyway. But my experience has made me practical. And if there's a situation down there that's honestly dangerous, it's vital that someone gets out, so they can tell the others what they saw."

"It goes without saying, you're both very important to finding out the truth about Jackson."


He checked the ammunition in the pistol. If there were no objections, he began his descent down the narrow stairs, keeping the beam of his flashlight low.
The Keeper
GM, 1247 posts
Thu 19 Jan 2017
at 01:13
  • msg #54

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

As they moved down the spiraling staircase, Vincent at their lead, they saw a small button along the rail near the bottom of the stairway.

They found themselves in a room that was as large as the storage room, and perhaps half of Gavigan's office as well. There were several small, not well disguised connections into the room for above, including what was clearly an electrical cable that lead to a light fixture, as well as a switch on the wall, and additionally hot and cold water pipes and other vents that lead in from above. Despite the cold winter, this room seemed as reasonably well heated as the rest of the building.



The room in some ways was a small gallery of art - ancient icons, statues, and paintings dotted the room. The paintings were mainly on masonry and stucco-like surfaces carefully separated from the original walls. The paintings depict strange creatures. One depicted hybrid winged beings that their eyes couldn't fully grasp, and their minds couldn't fully remember as their eyes moved onto the other works of art in the room. Another depicted a huge, scaly, birdlike creature with batlike wings, slimy skin, and two strong talons. As their eyes moved from painting to painting, each seemed somewhat more disturbing than the next.

Several small wooden crates were stacked about the room, and all but two were open and empty. On the left wall, there was a fine walnut bookcase with several glass protected shelves of books and scrolls. Along the right wall, there was a desk with a comfortable chair before it and a book set on top, with some papers, a stoppered inkwell, a fountain pen, and some handwritten documents nearby as well. On the back wall, there was another table against the wall with some papers on it, as well as a small ornate chest and a small stone jar.
Rosalie Elias
player, 313 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 19 Jan 2017
at 02:47
  • msg #55

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie followed Vincent, pulling her Luger from her satchel and keeping it ready in case it should be needed.  She inched carefully down the stairs, shining her light downward to illuminate the steps below.  When she reached the bottom of the rail and saw the small button, she pressed it, shining her light back up the stairs to see if it closed the sarcophagus door above.

Moving away from the stairs, she threw a glance at the paintings, but found something about them unsettling and didn't pause for a closer study.  Gravitating toward the desk, she studied the objects atop it, curiously shifting the handwritten papers and looking through the book.
The Keeper
GM, 1249 posts
Thu 19 Jan 2017
at 04:06
  • msg #56

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

As the three of them entered the room and Rosalie pressed the button, the door above them closed, leaving them in the secret room in the basement of the Penhew Foundation.

The desk had three drawers and a comfortable sitting chair before it. Looking to the handwritten papers, she could see that they were written in a very neat, precise Arabic script, addressed to someone named Omar Shakil. The book on the table is written in medieval French, and seems to consist of what appear to be stanzas of poetry.


OOC:

In my rush to throw that post together, I forgot to ask you guys to make a Sanity roll, as the artwork is so unsettling.

So let's do that now!

Also, I'm waiving Stealth rolls in this basement room, since it's underground and tucked away, unless you guys do something obnoxiously loud. Until you get back up, period stealth checks are waived.

Time Check:
45 minutes until the next guard patrol

Rosalie Elias
player, 314 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 19 Jan 2017
at 04:39
  • msg #57

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Taking a seat, Rosalie began to read through the papers and tried desperately to forget the nauseating paintings she'd passed.  The letter was in Arabic, so it took her a few minutes to puzzle through the words she didn't know.


21:35, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 84 using 1d100 with rolls of 84.  Sanity (78).
Vincent Moretti
player, 308 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 19 Jan 2017
at 04:46
  • msg #58

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Once they had all descended and he had taken in the contents of the room, including the unsettling paintings, the images of which prompted a dull throbbing in his temples, Moretti moved to the stack of crates, inspecting the pair that were unopened.

22:38, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 90 using 1d100 with rolls of 90.  Sanity - Sanity 68%.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:15, Thu 19 Jan 2017.
The Keeper
GM, 1250 posts
Thu 19 Jan 2017
at 04:51
  • msg #59

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:

Rosalie and Vincent, you each take 1d3 Sanity loss.


The letter is written to a man named Omar Shakil, and seems to have been written very recently. It alludes in vague terms to the death of a spice merchant, and that the writer would be consolidating the two branches of the Brotherhood under the writer's own control. The writer speaks of this as a net gain, as the spice merchant was sloppy and attracting the wrong kind of attention to the Brotherhood.

The writer makes note of his people noting two American men lingering around the spice shop, and suspects them of the deed. The writer suspects these men of association with another pair of Americans, a man and a woman that visited the writer earlier, and that were related to a third man that was taken care of in New York by Mukunga. The writer assures Omar Shakil not to worry, and that the writer is certain of seeing the interlopers disposed of before the next ritual, which is coming soon.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:38, Tue 25 July 2017.
Rosalie Elias
player, 315 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 19 Jan 2017
at 05:00
  • msg #60

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

21:57, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 3 using 1d3 with rolls of 3.  Sanity Loss.
Vincent Moretti
player, 309 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 19 Jan 2017
at 05:18
  • msg #61

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

23:15, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 1 using 1d3 with rolls of 1.  Sanity Loss.
The Keeper
GM, 1251 posts
Thu 19 Jan 2017
at 18:23
  • msg #62

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Looking to the larger of the crates, Vincent can see that it is stenciled on the outside to read Ho Fong Imports, 15 Kaoyang Road, Shanghai, China in both English and Chinese. In smaller letters were the words Attention: Honorable Ho Fong. Opening the crate, he found within it a textured marble statue of a strange looking figure that appeared to be a hideous, bloated woman.



Moving on to the smaller crate, he sees that it is stenciled Randolph Shipping Company, Port Hedland, Western Australia, Dominion of Australia. In smaller letters, it said Personal to Mr. Randolph. Within the smaller crate, he saw a sixteen inch bust of a figure whose head was oddly shaped and beset by tentacles on the lower half.



OOC:

Vincent, give me a SAN roll (0/1d4), as well as Occult and Cthulhu Mythos rolls.

I posted the description openly. If Rosalie or Tommy want to have a look at the statues, they can make the same rolls (except Tommy's will be 0/1d6).

This message was last edited by the GM at 15:01, Tue 27 June 2017.
Vincent Moretti
player, 310 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Fri 20 Jan 2017
at 02:25
  • msg #63

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Shuddering momentarily at the alien appearance of the statues, Moretti took out his pen and notepad, copying the names and addresses on each of the crates.

That done, he ventured to the back of the room, to look over the loose papers on the table.

20:14, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 40 using 1d100 with rolls of 40.  Cthulhu Mythos - Cthulhu Mythos 6%

20:14, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 75 using 1d100 with rolls of 75.  Occult - Occult 5%.

20:14, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 74 using 1d100 with rolls of 74.  Sanity - Sanity 67%.

20:15, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 2 using 1d4 with rolls of 2.  Sanity Loss.

Thomas Cotton
player, 402 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Sat 21 Jan 2017
at 11:07
  • msg #64

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Well well well...".
Following the others Tommy emerged in the hidden study. He nodded his approval as Rosalie triggered the closing of the entrance and allowed his eyes to wander the room.

With Vincent examining the crates and Rosalie settling to leaf through those papers, Tommy moved to the bookcase to kneel and explore its contents.

ooc:
Seems like it would be impossible not to look at those paintings right? Especially for someone like Tommy who dosnt realize their danger...
10:58, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 71 using 1d100 with rolls of 71.  Sanity vs 60.
(Ha, I didnt realize my starting Sanity was so obscenely low already!)
11:00, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 3 using 1d3 with rolls of 3.  Sanity loss.

The Keeper
GM, 1258 posts
Sat 21 Jan 2017
at 16:06
  • msg #65

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

On the back table, Vincent found a few papers next to a small ornate chest and a stone jar. What had appeared to be papers had resolved themselves into a calendar as he got closer. It was flipped to February, and the first day of the month was circled, and within the circle, the words Misr House were written.

Behind the calendar, there was also a scroll that had a weathered look about it. Peering closer at the scroll, he could make out a few words in Italian.




Within the fine walnut case were several glass-protected shelves of books and scrolls, with three volumes set on top of the shelf. Quickly recognizable were volumes in German, French, Russian, Latin, and Spanish. Two were in English. There were three that had been pulled out and stacked on top of the shelf, titled: G’harne Fragments, Ye Booke of Comunicacions with ye Angel Dzyon, and Liber Ivonis.

Looking at the scrolls, he found they were fifteen in number. Six were in Arabic, four in Latin, two in Egyptian Hieroglyphics, two in Medieval French, and one in Old English.
Rosalie Elias
player, 316 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Sat 21 Jan 2017
at 17:18
  • msg #66

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie slowly put the letter down and stared at it for a long moment before pushing away.  After a brief search of the desk for anything else of import, she rose from the chair and threw another glance about the room.  Her eyes strayed toward the paintings and she felt a roll of nausea welling up inside of her.  Quickly looking away, she moved to join Tommy at the bookshelf.

"We certainly were right to think that this brotherhood was involved.  I found a letter that Gavigan had written a man called Omar Shakil to tell him of the death of the spice merchant.  He mentions the American men that were seen lingering about the shop and that they're suspected of being responsible."  She looked from one man to the other.  "I assume that means the two of you.  He's connected you the visit my uncle and I paid him, and also to Jackson's death.  He also knew Jackson's killer by name.  It is safe to say that they were responsible for my cousin's murder.  He means to kill us all before their ritual."
The Keeper
GM, 1260 posts
Sat 21 Jan 2017
at 17:26
  • msg #67

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

PM
Vincent Moretti
player, 312 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Sat 21 Jan 2017
at 17:59
  • msg #68

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

PM
The Keeper
GM, 1261 posts
Sat 21 Jan 2017
at 18:06
  • msg #69

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

In reply to Vincent Moretti (msg # 68):
Vincent Moretti
player, 313 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Sat 21 Jan 2017
at 18:42
  • msg #70

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti was silent for a moment, considering what Rosalie had told them. After a moment, he shook his head. "Rosalie, I don't think Gavigan is referring to Tommy and I. There were three of us that broke into al-Sayed's shop that night. Miss O'Connor served as a lookout, then went in and helped with the search. If someone had seen Tommy and I get in, they would have observed her as well. But the letter only mentions two men."

He frowned. "When Stanley called Avery about what he and Bo had seen while they were watching the spice shop, he said that the two of them had a run in with some workers who were removing a crate out of the place. A crate they thought held the mirror."

"Gavigan is talking about Bo and Stanley. He thinks they killed al-Sayed. I'm not sure how he connected them to you and Leo. It may be nothing but an assumption. Someone comes calling, asking about Jackson, then one of their cult members ends up dead. They presume it's no coincidence."


Any pretence of being civilized fell away from him. He looked at Rosalie. "We're going to put Gavigan in the ground. He's not going to hurt you or anyone else. Not if I've got any say in it."

"We need to move quickly. Search this place and find every bit of documentation we can about Gavigan, the Brotherhood and their activities. Agreed?"

Rosalie Elias
player, 317 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Sun 22 Jan 2017
at 06:39
  • msg #71

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie gave Vincent a long, hard look before nodding.  "I have no argument with that," she replied with something of a hard edge to her voice.  "Anyone involved in this bloody cult, anyone involved in the death of my dear cousin, will have no mercy from me.  None in the slightest.  Mr. Gavigan has a surprise waiting for him if he thinks we are to be so easily disposed."  And they knew, Vincent especially, that she wasn't one to make idle threats or boasts.

"We cannot possibly take all of these books, but I think the scrolls can be easily managed.  Perhaps one or two of the texts that look important.  I think it is a safe guess that if the mirror was housed here, it would be kept in this room, away from the antiquities of normal business and prying eyes.  Unless... was it small enough to fit down the stairs, do you think?"
Vincent Moretti
player, 314 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Sun 22 Jan 2017
at 08:09
  • msg #72

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

He considered the spiral staircase as he removed his scarf. He glanced at Cotton for confirmation, then said, "The mirror was large. It might have proven too awkward to carry down here. It would definitely be heavier than the paintings."

He took out his switchblade, snapping the knife open. "Just to be safe, we should probably do a walk through of the second floor before we go, just to make certain it isn't here. The frame is...grotesque, disquieting. But, it's not so unusual that it wouldn't fit in within a collection of other antiquities."

Working quickly, but carefully, he cut a strip, roughly half an inch in width, from the entire length of the scarf. Once done, he closed the knife and put the scarf back around his neck. He tested the strength of the strip, tugging at it in opposite directions, then placed it in his coat pocket.

Nodding at Rosalie, he said, "We'll make certain that stronzo pays for what he did to Jackson." Shifting his attention back to the table, he retrieved his notepad and pen, writing down the caption "Misr House" from the calendar, noting the February 1st date.

Picking up the scroll for closer examination, he said, "I think that the ritual is tomorrow. And the location is given on this calendar. A place called the Misr House."
The Keeper
GM, 1262 posts
Sun 22 Jan 2017
at 15:25
  • msg #73

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

PM
Rosalie Elias
player, 318 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Sun 22 Jan 2017
at 20:31
  • msg #74

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie watched Vincent as he cut his strips, but didn't comment.  She knew they might very well need them before the night was over.  "Tomorrow?  That is rather soon.  Misr House?  Misr is the Arabic word for Egypt.  Do you think there's a place in London called Egypt House?  Or is it alluding to an Egyptian themed place like the Blue Pyramid?"   Opening the glass bookcase, she began removing the scrolls and carefully packing them into her bag.
The Keeper
GM, 1263 posts
Sun 22 Jan 2017
at 20:43
  • msg #75

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

PM
Vincent Moretti
player, 315 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Mon 23 Jan 2017
at 01:15
  • msg #76

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

An expression of mixed interest and amusement crossed Moretti's features as he briefly studied the contents of the scroll. Tucking it into one of his inner coat pockets, he looked back at Rosalie.

"We might discretely ask a staff member at the Savoy. The concierge maybe. See if either the Egypt House or Misr House is a location that's known in the city. If not, I can always ask after the name with one of my business associates here. See if they've heard of it."

He looked over at Cotton. "If those sources can't get us an answer, we might pose the question to Zubaida. I know she said not to contact her unless it was vital, but this would certainly qualify."

Returning his attention to the table, he studied the small chest for a moment before carefully attempting to open it.
Thomas Cotton
player, 403 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Mon 23 Jan 2017
at 12:48
  • msg #77

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Before the ritual? What ritual?". Tommy set down the book he had been leafing through to look at Rosalie with confusion.
Referenced in msg #66
Vincent soon cleared it up. "Maybe that is where the truck takes people?".

He nodded agreement to Vincent's summary though. "True. I'm sure they didn't see us at the Spice Shop. They must have clocked Stan and Bo earlier today. Bigger problem is if they somehow followed the guys back to the hotel and saw us all together...
If Gavigan planned to enact something before the ritual, he had to know where to hit us right?".
The reporter swore under his breath.
"Is there any way we can warn the others?".

He shrugged when Zubaida was mentioned.
"Our friend's at the Scoop might be a better option. 'Americans' going anywhere near Zubaida will put her at even more risk, so we should hold back while we have other avenues."

ooc: I guess we've been down here for a good 10 minutes or so? So the guard rotation is still c.30 minutes away?
Is there a wood heater or anything like that down here to burn the books we cant carry?

Rosalie Elias
player, 319 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Tue 24 Jan 2017
at 02:11
  • msg #78

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Whatever ritual that they're going to be doing with the mirror.  See your enemy, hurt your enemy?" She picked another scroll from the shelf, unrolled it to have a look, then rolled it back up and tucked it into her satchel.  "If the others are going to be at the docks, then we should go there to warn them, but we could call Avery first in case they have already checked in.  We could also ask Avery to find the Egypt House for us.  I'm sure he could easily get that information from the staff for us."
The Keeper
GM, 1264 posts
Tue 24 Jan 2017
at 02:25
  • msg #79

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:

Yes, it's been roughly ten minutes down here. You guys have had unbelievable luck with the guard's poor hearing tonight. Hopefully for you it will keep up!

Time Check:
35 minutes till next guard patrol

Thomas Cotton
player, 404 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Tue 24 Jan 2017
at 08:55
  • msg #80

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"But you said they were going after the American's before the ritual? So the ritual is something else?".

With concern mounting for their fellows Tommy looked up through the ceiling, recalling the layout above.
"Maybe one of us needs to get out of here with the scrolls, and get to a phone to warn the others.". It might already be too late, but at least a message to Avery would give a slim chance. "While the other pair of us look for that mirror?".

I presume there is no phone in the secret room? I saw the comment on electrical and water plumbing when we first entered.
Vincent Moretti
player, 316 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Tue 24 Jan 2017
at 16:16
  • msg #81

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti was silent for a long moment, then moved to the desk. Taking a piece of stationary, he wrote down a telephone number with a few words beneath it. He handed it to Cotton.

"You two need to go. Grab what you can and get out of here. My suggestion would be to find a pub nearby that would let you use a phone. Call Avery. Let him know what we've found out."

He pointed to the note he'd given to Cotton. "Then call that number. It's a phone used by the Sabini family's leadership. Use my name. Explain to whoever answers that I told you to call because you need somewhere safe to stay. Tell them I told you to say the phrase on this paper. 'In barca a vela'." He repeated the phrase twice more so both Rosalie and Cotton followed the pronunciation. "They'll get you set up at a safe house here in London."

"Then get to the docks. See if you can find the others. Once you have, head to the address the Sabinis have given you."
He glanced at the ceiling. "I'll case the rest of this place for the mirror. If I find it, I'll lift it or destroy it. Then I'll get to the waterfront myself."
Rosalie Elias
player, 320 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 25 Jan 2017
at 04:56
  • msg #82

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"No.  Absolutely not," Rosalie said firmly, after a moment of consideration.  "We're not leaving you here alone.  Didn't we already establish that there is safety in numbers?  I know you're always willing to make whatever sacrifices you need to make, Vincent, but it isn't necessary in this case.  They know that what we're doing is dangerous.  And yes, we need to find the others and make sure to keep everyone safe, but leaving you behind isn't conducive to that goal." 

Her eyes drifted about the room and then back to the stairs.  "If you want more time to look around and are worried about the guard, I can always distract him.  I could approach from the front and even ask to use the phone to call the Savoy.  But for now, we keep going here, search the place, and we all leave together.  If you want to contact your Italian friends to set up a safehouse, then we can do that together, too."
Vincent Moretti
player, 317 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Wed 25 Jan 2017
at 18:31
  • msg #83

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Mannaggia," Moretti said softly. He took a deep breath. "Rosalie, yours is one of the very few opinions that I hold in the greatest respect. I understand that you want to keep everyone together, to keep everyone as safe as possible. But...I just need to ask you to consider this from my perspective."

"Based on that letter, the others are in real danger. Leo. Bo. Stanley. If they were followed, they might not be aware of what kind of trouble they're in. Yes, they're sharp enough to have noticed someone tailing them. Possibly. But we can't be sure. It's playing the odds. The best course is to make sure they're warned."

"In my world, there are people...leaders, that have to be protected. It's not that different here. Leo, Stanley, Tommy, you...without your taking part, this effort to find out about what happened to Jackson can't go forward. In New York, in Italian Harlem, people like that, like you, are more valuable than the life of a single, insignificant soldato."


He swept his hand in an arc. "Rosalie, I've been doing break-ins like this since my Papa died. I can handle sneaking around upstairs, looking for the mirror, guard or no guard. It's what I do. It's who I am. I'll be fine."

"But I don't want the others to be blindsided, either by enemies at the docks or an ambush at the Savoy. I want to make certain everyone gets somewhere safe."

The Keeper
GM, 1272 posts
Tue 31 Jan 2017
at 02:05
  • msg #84

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:

Is anyone waiting on me?

Tommy: You're correct that there's no phone down here.

Time Check:
30 minutes till next guard patrol

Rosalie Elias
player, 321 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Tue 31 Jan 2017
at 02:28
  • msg #85

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:  We were just waiting to give Tommy a chance to chime in.
Thomas Cotton
player, 405 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Tue 31 Jan 2017
at 08:13
  • msg #86

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Thanks for your patience all!

"Vincent's right. We have to warn the others. The whole plan was based on the enemy not knowing who we are. But if Gavigan has some way of turning the tables we need warn Stan and Bo.".
He frowned, torn between indecision.

"But, we wont get a better shot at this joint.".
With determination in his eyes the reporter looked to Vincent.
"Which makes me think you and I stick together. You might think you are dispensable, but this aint your old world. More to the point, this isn't a question of leaving you behind. Its a question of time.". The reporter glanced at Rosalie.

"Vincent is right; this stuff is basically his job and we gotta trust him to do it well. He's probably safer than we would be rushing headlong into an ambush. But we'll get this place swept sooner if there are two of us.".

"Rosalie can get the warning call in to Avery using the call box outside right?". That would be safe enough."."Then if Vinny and I split up we should be able to get through this place quick and meet you out there?".
He grinned to Vincent.
"Besides, do you think either of us can persuade her to leave you here alone?

Rosalie at least one of us has to warn the others; I dont care who it is, and I do trust Vincent".


Suggest whoever posts next makes a decision (i'm happy to go with any scenario). Tommy strongly believes we have to warn the others AND we need to finish sweeping the museum, but I'm relaxed about how those dual objectives are achieved.

If Rosalie makes the call, we can always set up some communication like:
Failure to warn Avery (meaning we have to get to the docks quickly in person) means she stands in location X (which we can see from inside the building).
Successful warning of Avery (meaning we have time in the building) means she stands in location Y (until we flash her from a window to acknowledge).
Otherwise, she can always leave us a concealed note if something else comes up.

Vincent Moretti
player, 320 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Tue 31 Jan 2017
at 16:59
  • msg #87

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti was quiet for a moment. "Tommy, I don't say this lightly. In these past few days you've become like a brother to me. You're one of only a few I would trust with the welfare of my own family. No one can question your courage. I'm truly thankful for your friendship, paisan."

He gestured to the paper he'd given the reporter. "Right now, the most important thing is to make sure that everyone is safe. Everyone that matters. I understand you don't think I'm someone who's disposable. And I appreciate that. But you and I both know you can find a dozen mooks just like me on the streets of New York on any given day." He gave a self depreciating grin. "Materia penales the city would be better off without."

"Leo, Rosalie, Bo, you. This thing can't go on without you. And the problem is this: If one of us rushes out, makes a phone call, and can't reach anyone, the next step is to find them at the docks. And if they're already facing something dangerous, it's better that whoever goes looking for them doesn't do it alone."


He looked over at Rosalie. "I know you can take care of yourself. I know you're not scared of il diavolo. It's one of the things I...admire about you. But if these Brotherhood people have followed the others and are ready to put a plan into motion, you shouldn't walk into the middle of something like that by yourself."

His gaze shifted between Rosalie and Cotton. "The more of us that are together, the better able we'll be to handle what those monsters try to throw at us."

"We've already succeeded here. We found a mountain of important information. Proof that Gavigan is the cattivo we suspected him to be. So go. Find the others. Get to the safe house. If we believe what we've read, the mirror could be used to hurt someone. It could be what Gavigan means to use in the ritual. So it needs to be taken care of. If it's here, I'll find it."


He shrugged. "If I run into trouble, so be it. It'll be okay, whatever happens."
Rosalie Elias
player, 322 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 1 Feb 2017
at 05:58
  • msg #88

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Thomas, the only flaw in your otherwise brilliant plan is that the call box outside goes directly to the police switchboard.  That's it's purpose and how they're all rigged in London.  We would have to use one of the telephones in this building, which means either risking being caught by the guard on his patrol, or talking him into it."

Her gaze flashed hard at Vincent.  "Moretti, you're a damned fool if you seriously think that you're expendable in this situation.  This is the third time you've said as much, and it's getting rather old.  If you were within reach, I'd slap some sense into that thick head of yours.  None of us are expendable, simply because we are all we've got.  There are no captains or soldiers.  This isn't the Black Hand or the Five Points Gang.  The bottom line is that you have skills and experience that the rest of us don't because of your background.  That doesn't make you expendable; that makes you valuable.  So quit being a bellend about the whole bloody thing.  If something happens to you, that means we're a lot less stronger than we were.  It could mean the difference between finding justice for Jackson and going home empty handed... or worse."

"You want to search the whole bloody building?  Fine.  But you're not doing it alone.  I'll leave the two of you at it and try to get word to Avery in the meanwhile.  If not here, then I'll take the car to the nearest pub."  Her lips pressed into a thin line and she glanced to the stairs.  "I'll try sneaking out before the guard goes on patrol again.  If I'm caught, don't do anything stupid.  Let me try to talk my way out of trouble before you go bashing anyone in the head.  Understood?"
Vincent Moretti
player, 322 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Wed 1 Feb 2017
at 16:12
  • msg #90

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

The lingering part of him that was the youth that had survived innumerable street brawls wanted to argue the point further, to tell her how certain he felt that, if something were to happen to him, Joe Masseria, out of deference to Leonardo Elias, would likely send another, someone like Kavanaugh, to assist the family further. A second criminal with nigh identical skills.

But he didn't, yielding instead to his experience as a soldato, to his comprehension of the code of honor that drove many of the Morello family's actions. Rosalie was persona di rispetto. Like Leo. Like Stanley. Her decisions were to be acceded to. He nodded, his gaze going to the floor. "As you wish, Rosalie," he said, "È la tua parola."

Painfully aware that the debate had cost them precious time, he returned his attention to the chest he had opened, pulling back his sleeve and checking his watch as he did so.
Thomas Cotton
player, 407 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Wed 1 Feb 2017
at 22:52
  • msg #91

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy found himself chuckling.
"Well that told you!".
Returning to the books he pulled them out one at a time to flick through the pages incase anything popped out as unusual, looking back to Rosalie.
"Ok, let me know if there is anything else you want me to carry.". She could judge better than he which manuscripts might be most valuable.

When they were satisfied he moved to the foot of the stairs to where the hidden button to slide open the door above lay.
"Ok, let's wrap this up. Vincent, let's take the rear storage room first before a sweep upstairs. See if we can't get this done quickly before the guard's next round.
Shall we aim to be back at the car with Rosalie in 20 minutes? If you are not there Rosalie we will head straight to the docks ourselves.".

The Keeper
GM, 1276 posts
Thu 2 Feb 2017
at 04:22
  • msg #92

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Vincent found the small ornate chest standing next to a small stone jar.
Rosalie Elias
player, 323 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 2 Feb 2017
at 04:31
  • msg #93

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Provided we can get out of here without making too much noise.  I'm not exactly the most graceful person tonight," she muttered, thinking of her bungle with the flashlight.  She took a look at the books that Thomas had collected, but didn't see any reason to grab another over what he had.  They wouldn't know what was in any of them until they had a chance to study them.
Vincent Moretti
player, 323 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 2 Feb 2017
at 06:02
  • msg #94

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti grimaced at the contents of the chest, but wasted no time in collecting them for inspection later. He placed the twin daggers in one of his inner coat pockets, then added the other, more grotesque items, to one of the outer pockets.

Turning his attention to the jar, he opened it carefully and peered inside.
The Keeper
GM, 1277 posts
Thu 2 Feb 2017
at 06:40
  • msg #95

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Vincent peers inside the small jar.
Vincent Moretti
player, 324 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 2 Feb 2017
at 17:35
  • msg #96

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti nodded in agreement with Cotton's suggestion of a quick sweep. "Let's cover as much ground as we possibly can."

Moretti closed the jar and delivered it to Rosalie. He couldn't be certain about the identity of the substance it contained, but instinct told him it was important.

He took a final glance at the collection of books, taking any single volume that the title of which snagged his attention.

When the small group ascended the stairs he was the last to make the climb. When they reached the top of the stairwell, he paused, studying the descent into the study, looking for the highest point on the steps that fell into shadow, a spot where someone who was familiar with the staircase wouldn't be prone to look.

Locating a spot that best fit his criteria, he removed the strip of scarf from his pocket. Carefully, he tied each end of the strip to the baluster on either side, making certain that the cloth was taut and positioned just above ankle level.

Once done, he studied his work momentarily, ensuring that it was as strong and concealed as possible, then joined the others in the storage room.
Rosalie Elias
player, 324 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Fri 3 Feb 2017
at 03:14
  • msg #97

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie tucked the jar into her satchel along with the scrolls and paused in the storage room.  "I'll try for the back," she said.  "Good luck with the search."  She reached for the door handle and winced as the hinged squeaked loudly.  Holding her breath, she peeked out into the corridor to see if the guard had heard.


20:11, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 61 using 1d100 with rolls of 61.  Stealth (60).
The Keeper
GM, 1278 posts
Fri 3 Feb 2017
at 05:23
  • msg #98

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy found volumes in German, French, Russian, Spanish, Latin, and two in English. Of them, the ones that appeared to have seen the most use were the ones in English and the one in Latin. respectively titled G’harne Fragments, Ye Booke of Comunicacions with ye Angel Dzyon, and Liber Ivonis.

One of the English ones is a leather bound manuscript, in a medium folio, slightly damaged with some foxing and occasionally irregularly sized pages. No title or author is given on the cover but a frontispiece identifies it as Ye Booke of Comunicacions with ye Angel Dzyon. The manuscript contains text in archaic English and an unknown set of symbols as well as marginal notes in what appears to be Greek. This book is a loosely organized collection of what can be described, for lack of a better term, as séances between an unnamed medium and an “angelic spirit” identified in the text as Dzyon.

The next English volume is a slim, unadorned, pasteboard-bound work in that appears to be 128 pages in length. The title "G’harne Fragments" is printed on both the pasteboard cover (a pale cream, with black ink) and the spine, with the author’s name (Sir Amery Wendy-Smith) printed below the title. No publisher is listed nor is a date of publication given. The production quality and style suggests a small university press or that the author paid for publication himself; the finished product is of inexpensive materials. There are numerous illustrations depicting some sort of cipher or artificial language consisting of haphazardly arranged dots and a scattering of astronomical charts. A handwritten dedication on the title page says “Many thanks for your advice and aid, W-S.” Scattered throughout the text are a few passages underlined in meticulous pencil lines. This work provides a supposed translation of inscriptions first discovered by British explorer Sir Howard Windrop in a hitherto unknown ruined city in Africa, referred to as “G’harne” by the author. Expanding on Windrop’s earlier translation, Wendy-Smith, claims that the text contains the fragmentary records of a prehistoric, (perhaps even non-human) civilization.

The Latin work is a large vellum manuscript bound in brass-capped leather. The interior of the work (entitled Liber Ivonis) is in illuminated Latin, accompanied by copious marginal illustrations, miniatures, and decorated initials (most of which seem to consist of a rather fanciful toad or frog). The manuscript binding is in fair condition—some of the brass fittings have been lost, the inside cover has been gouged repeatedly (apparently to remove a book plate, the scraps of which remain, but are totally illegible), and there are recent small scorch marks on the rear cover. The manuscript interior is in excellent condition. The artwork within depicts many strange scenes, some of which are rather disturbing and unlike those found in a typical medieval work.

From what Tommy can recall of his Latin, it's hard to get much on a quick skim, but he can see that this work is a grimoire allegedly written by the magician Ivon “of Hyperborea.” It serves as both a grimoire and to provide an autobiographical account of the author’s life, from his time as an apprentice to his departure from Hyperborea. It will take much more study to get more than that.

OOC:

Tommy, given that you haven't read any of the group's other books, ALL of the books you can read will pop out as unusual.

Thomas Cotton
player, 409 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Sun 5 Feb 2017
at 13:33
  • msg #99

Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Cotton nodded silently to Rosalie as she prepared to slip away. The clock was ticking and the sooner they could get the warning to the others the better. Behind him Vincent worked in deadly silence and slowing his breathing the reporter waited for the all clear from Rosalie. If the coast was clear he would hurry in to the storage room heading toward the stairs opposite to begin his sweep for he mirror.

Tommy will grab the books and slip them under a sheet or behind something in the storage area near the rear exit, with a view to collecting them on the way back out
The Keeper
GM, 1279 posts
Mon 6 Feb 2017
at 17:23
  • msg #100

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:

I'll need a Stealth Check from Vincent and Tommy.

Time Check:
15 minutes till next guard patrol

This message was last edited by the GM at 23:47, Mon 06 Feb 2017.
Vincent Moretti
player, 325 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Mon 6 Feb 2017
at 18:21
  • msg #101

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti paused, watching to make certain that Rosalie was able to depart without difficulty, then followed Cotton to the room across the hall to search for the mirror.

12:13, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 63 using 1d100 with rolls of 63.  Stealth - Stealth 80%
Thomas Cotton
player, 411 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Mon 6 Feb 2017
at 18:43
  • msg #102

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Counting to 10 to give Rosalie time to make her getaway Tommy began his search. In the darkness he swept the lower store room, heading toward the stairs upward. The darkness was their friend and yet for a moment she betrayed him as he stumbled over an unseen box. Catching himself from falling he swore and froze; would the guard hear?

18:38, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 85 using 1d100 with rolls of 85.  Stealth .
The Keeper
GM, 1280 posts
Mon 6 Feb 2017
at 23:59
  • msg #103

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Once they ascended and made sure to seal the secret entrance they had come from, Rosalie peeked out the door, but set her foot a bit more noisily than she might have liked.

They waited for the usual pattern of newspaper pages turning, but as she took a step too loud, there was a break in the pattern and a long pause. Thomas stumbling over a box added an additional noise, and there was the sound of a scooting back of a chair and footsteps echoing in a silent hall, the flashlight dancing along the corridor.



OOC:

I changed the narration a bit to suit the circumstances after Rosalie's failed Stealth roll, and Tommy's failed Stealth roll. Things like counting to ten, crossing the hallway, etc. didn't seem to make sense anymore in that context, so I have you all in the storage room.

What are you all doing now?

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:50, Tue 07 Feb 2017.
Rosalie Elias
player, 325 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Tue 7 Feb 2017
at 04:22
  • msg #104

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie stepped out into the hallway, walking with a purpose toward the guard, her mouth set in a slight frown.  "Excuse me?!  Are you the only one on duty tonight?  Someone left the back gate open again.  I hope that wasn't your responsibility this time.  Mister Gavigan asked me to come by to lock the safe in his office, because he forgot, and here I find the back gate hanging wide open and the back door ajar.  Do you even check those on your rounds?  Anyone could come waltzing in at any time and catch you unawares!  Do you realize how late it is?  I was on my way out to a very nice club, thinking I could pop in here for just a moment, and now have to waste my time dealing with this situation."  She sniffed, eyeing the guard as she closed in.  "Which one are you?"
The Keeper
GM, 1281 posts
Tue 7 Feb 2017
at 04:58
  • msg #105

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:

Give me a Persuasion roll, with Advantage.

Vincent Moretti
player, 326 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Tue 7 Feb 2017
at 05:06
  • msg #106

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Careful to remain out of sight, Moretti shouldered out of his coat and edged toward the door, the fingers of his right hand laced through his brass knuckles, the overcoat dangling loosely from his left.
Rosalie Elias
player, 326 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Tue 7 Feb 2017
at 05:39
  • msg #107

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Pbbbbbbbt.

22:38, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 162 using 2d100 with rolls of 89,73.  Persuade (45) w/ Advantage.

Thomas Cotton
player, 412 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Tue 7 Feb 2017
at 07:29
  • msg #108

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy winced as the muffled sound of footsteps echoed down the hallway. Before he could react Roaslie was moving forward, and all Tommy could do was fade into the shadows around him in an attempt to hide.

I presume we should await the guards reaction before we respond to the persuade roll
The Keeper
GM, 1287 posts
Wed 8 Feb 2017
at 19:46
  • msg #109

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

The guard seemed lost in the torrent of words that she unleashed, but he began to quickly catch on to the questions she was asking him. "Why yes, I am the only one on du'y tonight, miss. I don't know much about the gate bein' left open. That's not my charge, but the fella that leaves before me. I thought I 'eard somethin' outside, so I checked, but it weren't nothin'. Musta been when I left the back door unlocked. I'm mostly here just to make sure nothin's caught on fire, y'see. Not much in th' way of disturbances and the like.  If Mr. Gavigan sent you to lock up 'is safe, you best get to it then," he said, tilting his head towards Gavigan's office door.

"'e's not a patient man. Did you have a name, then? I'm s'pose ta keep a log of any irregularities. Lemme go get my ledger." He turned and moved back towards the post where he had been.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:47, Wed 08 Feb 2017.
Thomas Cotton
player, 413 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Wed 8 Feb 2017
at 22:34
  • msg #110

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

As the guard spoke Tommy kept his breathing shallow, the shadows of the museum seeping into his surroundings. Tense, he glanced toward Vincent, listening to the guard speak.
Rosalie seemed to have the guard under control.
For now all he could do was hold his breath.

If the guard starts to walk back toward the main desk, as I envisage it we can silently shadow him at least back in to Gavigan's office (off the main corridor).
If the opportunity exists to accelerate and slip ahead of him (and pounce) then I'm sure we are interested in it. But am slightly unclear as to if that is realistic or if we would have no chance of such a thing because we are just that far behind them.

The Keeper
GM, 1288 posts
Thu 9 Feb 2017
at 05:06
  • msg #111

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:

I would prefer to wait until Rosalie responds to see what makes sense in terms of you guys doing whatever.

But I'd like to see in character posts representing what you're doing, and how you know about the position of the guard. Are you peeking out? Are you relying on listening to footsteps? These are things I need to know.

Rosalie Elias
player, 327 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 9 Feb 2017
at 05:40
  • msg #112

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"I'm Catherine Parker, one of Mr. Gavigan's consultant researchers," Rosalie called after him, pulling a name out of thin air.  Fearing that he wasn't convinced, and might be going to phone the police, she followed him back to his desk rather than slip into Gavigan's office.  "Do you know anything about the private research he's been doing lately?  It really is fascinating.  Blood cults and underground societies in London.  Can you imagine if that were really true today?"  She slipped her hands into her coat pockets.
The Keeper
GM, 1289 posts
Thu 9 Feb 2017
at 05:42
  • msg #113

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Well, I don't rightly know 'bout all that. I'm just here to make sure nothin' damages all the artifacts," he said, bending over the desk.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:50, Thu 09 Feb 2017.
Rosalie Elias
player, 328 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 9 Feb 2017
at 05:57
  • msg #114

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Yes, I suppose that is quite an important job," she remarked.  Nearing his desk, she tilted her head to see what he was doing.



22:55, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 33 using 1d100 with rolls of 33.  Spot Hidden (55).
22:54, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 60 using 1d100 with rolls of 60.  Psychology (8).

Thomas Cotton
player, 414 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Thu 9 Feb 2017
at 09:45
  • msg #115

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

In my mind Tommy is somewhere in the store room. He has seen Rosalie head out to the main corridor, and heard the guard approach and the exchange between the two. He's not looking out.
Since Rosalie's last post I now think we must have heard both of their footsteps receding down the corridor (toward the main reception) - at this point (if the picture in my head is accurate...which it may not be!) I see Tommy emerging and following those footsteps - but not in the main corridor as that is too risky, but parallel toward Gavigan's office. That gets him closer to the desk to help Rosalie and within ear shot hopefully without being seen?

This message was lightly edited by the GM at 16:26, Thu 09 Feb 2017.
The Keeper
GM, 1291 posts
Thu 9 Feb 2017
at 16:33
  • msg #116

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:

There's no parallel corridor. Your only option other than the main corridor is going to be going through the secret door that connects Gavigan's office to the storage room, which is an option.

Make a Stealth roll if you want to do this.

Vincent Moretti
player, 327 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 9 Feb 2017
at 16:50
  • msg #117

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC: Moretti will remain where he is until he hears Rosalie and the guard move to the front of the building.

Once he's certain (as certain as one can be judging the situation by sound) that the two have reached the guard's station, his inclination would be to move quietly down the main corridor in that direction, with the intention of waylaying the watchman. Honestly, the best way to handle such a conflict might be to tangle him up long enough for Rosalie to dose him with chloroform.

Tommy, my honest suggestion would be to travel using the main corridor. It's the most expedient route. If the watchman is alerted, we'll just have to contend with things getting messy.

Vincent Moretti
player, 327 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 9 Feb 2017
at 16:50
  • msg #117

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC: Moretti will remain where he is until he hears Rosalie and the guard move to the front of the building.

Once he's certain (as certain as one can be judging the situation by sound) that the two have reached the guard's station, his inclination would be to move quietly down the main corridor in that direction, with the intention of waylaying the watchman. Honestly, the best way to handle such a conflict might be to tangle him up long enough for Rosalie to dose him with chloroform.

Tommy, my honest suggestion would be to travel using the main corridor. It's the most expedient route. If the watchman is alerted, we'll just have to contend with things getting messy.

Penhew Foundation Guard
NPC, 0 posts
Age 36 | APP 9 | SIZ 14
Mon 13 Feb 2017
at 20:37
  • msg #118

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moving around his desk, the guard bent over, seemingly in search of his ledger, but quick enough, he reached under his desk and retrieved a rifle, raising it quickly to aim it at the young woman.


OOC:
Rosalie can't seem to really get much of a read on the man, though she can see that as he bends of the desk, he doesn't seem to be going for any sort of ledger. Instead, he is reaching for something that is under the desk. 

That she notices him doing something fishy will give you a chance to make some opposed action to what he's doing, like drawing her Luger or trying to grapple him, or something else you have in mind. If she's going to do something like that, let me know what it is and give me a d100 roll. If not, please also say so. 

Tommy and Vincent, I made Listen rolls for you both with Disadvantage, as you are trying to judge positions of people in another room judging solely by voices and footsteps. Vincent didn't make it (though it was close), but Tommy made both of his rolls. 


Tommy and Vincent make Stealth rolls with Advantage during this scene now, since the guard is preoccupied with Rosalie.

This message was last updated by the player at 20:37, Mon 13 Feb 2017.
Vincent Moretti
player, 329 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Mon 13 Feb 2017
at 21:02
  • msg #119

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti advanced down the hallway, moving as close to the watchman's station as possible without revealing his position.

14:52, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 51 using 1d100 with rolls of 51.  Stealth - Stealth 80%.

14:57, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 80 using 1d100 with rolls of 80.  Listen - Listen 25%.

The Keeper
GM, 1298 posts
Mon 13 Feb 2017
at 22:13
  • msg #120

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

While they were still talking, Vincent managed to sneak into the waiting room outside of Gavigan's office. He saw only the man searching his desk for something.
Rosalie Elias
player, 329 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Tue 14 Feb 2017
at 06:57
  • msg #121

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"How DARE you point a gun at me!" Rosalie shouted loudly.  She grabbed hold of the barrel, pulled, and then shoved it back as hard as she could.  The butt cracked him in the jaw, but left him standing.




Knockout fail
Damage: 3


23:47, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 40 using 1d100 with rolls of 40.  Fist (50).
23:48, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 3 using 1d6 with rolls of 3.  Damage.
23:49, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 94 using 1d100 with rolls of 94.  Knockout.
23:50, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 60 using 1d100 with rolls of 60.  Combat Order.

Thomas Cotton
player, 415 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Tue 14 Feb 2017
at 07:41
  • msg #122

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Hearing the footsteps move away Tommy nodded to Vincent, signalling that they should pursue. But Moretti was already moving and doing his best to be silent the reporter followed.

No sooner had they reached the shadowy safety of the next door was the silence broken by Rosalie's sudden alarm. A gun!
Without thinking Tommy broke in to a run. Any attempt at stealth was forgotten as he skidded around the corner and burst in to the open space. With no time to think he launched himself at the guard in an attempt to barrel him over in a tackle to the ground.


Tommy's stealth is 80, so as I understand the rules while the first roll failed, I can use the second because of advantage which is a pass.
07:28, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 76 using 1d100 with rolls of 76.  stealth advantage.
07:27, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 97 using 1d100 with rolls of 97.  stealth.

And then:
07:35, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 6 using 1d100 with rolls of 6.  A dex related roll incase 'keeps needs it.
Not sure how far Tommy's attempt to tackle the guy will get or the order of things, but hopefully the above roll helps!


This message was last edited by the GM at 16:29, Tue 14 Feb 2017.
Vincent Moretti
player, 330 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Tue 14 Feb 2017
at 13:19
  • msg #123

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

The instant he heard Rosalie yell, Moretti moved, swiftly crossing the hall, from the waiting area to the station.

OOC: I'm holding off on declaring a combat action, pending the outcome of Cotton's rugby tackle. If he takes the watchman to the ground, Moretti will probably just whale on the guy.

If needed:

07:11, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 64 using 1d100 with rolls of 64.  Stealth - Stealth 80%.

This message was last edited by the GM at 16:29, Tue 14 Feb 2017.
Penhew Foundation Guard
NPC, 0 posts
Age 36 | APP 9 | SIZ 14
Tue 14 Feb 2017
at 16:36
  • msg #124

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Stupid fockin' cunt," he growled as he slugged Rosalie in the face, an instant reaction to himself having been struck. As he pulled back, he took hold of the rifle and took a couple of steps back to give himself space, though he didn't fire.



OOC:

Rosalie takes 4 points of damage from the punch in the face, and she has an action. After that action, we'll begin a round with the others in it - though they have already declared the actions so when it comes their turns I will just be reacting to the above posts.

This message was last updated by the player at 16:36, Tue 14 Feb 2017.
Rosalie Elias
player, 330 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Tue 14 Feb 2017
at 15:42
  • msg #125

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie staggered backward, wincing from the blow.  "You should have just bought the story and let it go," she muttered.  Pulling her hand from her pocket, she aimed her Luger in his direction.  "No one has to get hurt... more than they already have."


Aiming, but not firing.
The Keeper
GM, 1300 posts
Tue 14 Feb 2017
at 16:35
  • msg #126

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]


OOC:

Rosalie's scene began with her dialogue, the guard's reaction, and subsequently turned into action. Being behind him and seeing him up to something, she got a quick 'surprise' round of her own, followed by a full round with the guard. 
It was then that I wanted to bring Tommy and Vincent in, though I should probably have specified this last night before Tommy posted himself hurtling out of the room at the guard. Usually, I'd go with the declared action, but because he declared his action prematurely before the previous scene had resolve, I'd like to retcon that a little bit. 

We're turning back the clock to before Tommy and Vincent left the waiting room outside of Gavigan's office. I've stricken out the relevant text from your posts (and will later delete it - I just kept it in case you wanted to copy it for another post). You've heard the exchange between Rosalie and the guard, but haven't seen what's going on. And then we will go into a regular combat round starting now, when you can decide what to do with your actions:

Order:
Guard (On Hold)
Rosalie
Vincent
Tommy
Guard
Rosalie (she can go before the guard if she can roll 9 or less on a d100)

This message was last edited by the GM at 23:18, Tue 14 Feb 2017.
Thomas Cotton
player, 416 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Tue 14 Feb 2017
at 19:47
  • msg #127

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Hearing what is going on without seeing it, all Tommy knows is that the guy has a gun, he's still up (and angry) so I think the action probably remains the same. Tommy still dosnt have time to think or draw a weapon - I see it as a snap decision from an inexperienced reporter rather than calculated action...maybe that's why the dex roll was so good!

So, in the interests of not holding up the game while I'm sleeping tonight, unless Vincent does something unexpected Tommy is probably still launching himself headlong at a man with a raised gun :)
Hopefully Vincent and Rosalie will at least distract him!
If Vincent does something unexpected which makes Tommy's action seem nonsense then I'll review after. Trust your judgment 'keeps.

Penhew Foundation Guard
NPC, 1 post
Age 36 | APP 9 | SIZ 14
Wed 15 Feb 2017
at 00:06
  • msg #128

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Fierce little kitten, aren't you?" he asked with a smile that was anything but pleasant.

"If you don't wanna get 'urt, you'd be best to put it away so I can call the police. Didn't figure on gettin' pinched tonight, did you?"

OOC:

The combat order is momentarily paused until further notice.

No more Stealth Advantage as the guard is on high alert.

Rosalie Elias
player, 331 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 15 Feb 2017
at 00:34
  • msg #129

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"That's the sweetest thing anyone's said to me all day," Rosalie quipped.  "Listen, you can't call the police.  You really don't want them finding what I found.  You also don't want to shoot me, and I really don't want to shoot you, so let's call a little truce."  Her gun lowered a fraction.

"Terribly sorry about the jaw, but I panicked when you brought out that rifle.  Plus, you cracked me a good one, so I'd say we're even."  She winced as she touched her cheek.  "It'll definitely bruise in the morning."

"So let's have a little chat about your boss' nasty little habits and what you know about them.  Did you know he was in a murderous blood cult that believes in human sacrifice?  Or that he has a hidden shrine to said cult tucked beneath the storage room?"
Penhew Foundation Guard
NPC, 2 posts
Age 36 | APP 9 | SIZ 14
Wed 15 Feb 2017
at 11:45
  • msg #130

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

He scowled a bit and lowered his rifle slightly as she did the same, listening to her talk, though he scoffed at the last.

"Blimey! I don't rightly know what I'll do now that you've found out we're all Templar Knights. The boss'll sack me for sure if 'e finds out you know we've got the 'oly Grail 'idden away downstairs in a potato sack," he mock lamented, obvious sarcasm in his voice.

"Really, I 'aven't heard such a shit story from a robber before. That the best you got?" he said.
Rosalie Elias
player, 332 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 15 Feb 2017
at 15:44
  • msg #131

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"It would be quite the tale, if there wasn't proof that you could see with your own eyes.  Do I look like a thief?  What, exactly, would I be stealing that I could carry myself and be able to sneak past you?  You know very well that most of the items in here are far too large for that.  If I'd come here intent on thievery, I would have dealt with you first to get you out of the way."  She shook her head.  "No, I came here for proof."

She flicked her chin at the hallway.  "You look inside of these rooms how many times a night?  You'll know I'm telling the truth if you look in the storage room."  She lowered her pistol to her side.  "If I'm not, I'll give you my gun and you can call the police.  If I am, then you'll put the rifle down and have a look for yourself.  I'm convinced that once you've had a look, you're not going to want to work here any longer.  It is very disturbing."  She looked him up and down.  "But you seem to me the sort of man that might have the stomach for it."

"If the police are called and find that, they'll probably take you to jail.  Or, at the very least, they'll arrest Gavigan, shut this place down, and you'll be out of a job."  She took a slow step away from him, into the hallway.
Penhew Foundation Guard
NPC, 2 posts
Age 36 | APP 9 | SIZ 14
Wed 15 Feb 2017
at 22:07
  • msg #132

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

When she lowered her gun, he did as well, though not all the way.

As she stepped backward, he took a step forward in equal measure, keeping the distance between them alike - and pulling his gun up slightly, though not pointing it at her.

"Oy!" he called out as she started to move backwards. "Stop all the goddamn movement before my trigger finger gets itchy. I was in the war, y'know. Ain't my first time holdin' a gun, though it might be yours, kitten. Now, supposin' that I'm to buy your story, what exactly did you find down there? You can tell me from where you're standin'. No need for scootin' back any more, unless you wanna push me."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 22:07, Wed 15 Feb 2017.
Rosalie Elias
player, 333 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 16 Feb 2017
at 01:44
  • msg #133

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"I served in the war, too," she said quietly.  "I'm the one that took out the bullets that the Germans and the Turks put in."

She waved her free hand at the hallway.  "Now you're just going to take my word for it?  It's full of horrible, disturbing things of the occult.  This is something you need to see with your own eyes.  You can't tell me that you're not the least bit curious at what's at the bottom of the hidden stairway beneath the sarcophagus in the store room."

She'd still not raised her gun, but she did plant her free hand on her hip.  "So how are you going to play this?  As I see it, you're the one in charge of this little standoff."
Vincent Moretti
player, 331 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Fri 17 Feb 2017
at 03:32
  • msg #134

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti glanced at Cotton, knowing that the reporter would read his intention. His gut had tightened into a knot, his instinct telling him that something was wrong, that the watchman wasn't a mere lackey guarding a museum. But even as he moved, he felt uncertainty, wondering if his haste was being prompted more by his concern for who was being threatened, as opposed to the calm calculation he had learned under the tutelage of Joe Masseria.

He didn't give himself time to reflect. He drew his pistol, raising it as he stepped out in the hall, bringing the hammer down hard, the metallic click loud in the quiet corridor. He made no attempt at stealth, presenting himself as an obvious threat to the guard.

21:30, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 88 using 1d100 with rolls of 88.  DEX x 5 - 75%.

21:31, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 99 using 1d100 with rolls of 99.  Luck - 75%.

The Keeper
GM, 1309 posts
Fri 17 Feb 2017
at 06:27
  • msg #135

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

The guard had been on the verge of a response when a burst of movement came from the door of the waiting room outside Gavigan's office. He had been in a tense moment, a standoff with the woman opposite him, when a figure had burst through the door with a gun, the hammer clicking loudly as it was pointed at him. Instinctively, he pulled up the rifle and fired it, hitting his target.



OOC:

On account of the tense situation and the guard being on high alert, I let the guard roll off with everyone, and he comes to the top of the order for the first round.

Now regular combat order commences. This is everyone in the standard DEX order (assuming they're shooting). Everyone either has a gun that allows more than one shot per round or is an expert shooter.

The guard hit Vincent, doing 6 damage to our resident Italian stallion - just low enough to avoid Shock.

Everyone is in Point Blank range. This means that your Shooting skill is doubled (accordingly increasing your chance to get a critical).

Order:
Guard
Vincent
Rosalie
Tommy
Vincent
Guard
Rosalie

This message was last edited by the GM at 13:42, Fri 17 Feb 2017.
Thomas Cotton
player, 418 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Fri 17 Feb 2017
at 13:25
  • msg #136

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

As their eyes met in grim determination Tommy nodded.


I guess Vincent's action will occur before this? Anyway, so as not to hold things up:
13:23, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 21 using 1d100 with rolls of 21.  Luck.
13:23, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 37 using 1d100 with rolls of 37.  Dex.
13:21, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 79 using 1d100 with rolls of 79.  Incase 'keeper needs it.

This message was last edited by the GM at 20:42, Fri 17 Feb 2017.
Vincent Moretti
player, 332 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Fri 17 Feb 2017
at 17:22
  • msg #137

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"You pull one of these, eventually you're gonna get shot. Nature of the business. Do yourself a favor and get over being afraid of it. Right now."

Moretti had been seventeen, sitting across from Joe Masseria, a revolver sitting on the table between them, when those words were spoken. He'd considered the advice silently for a few minutes, then resolved to accept it. When he picked up the weapon, he found himself suddenly curious about when death would find him. Where he would be, how many years he would have managed to collect when the day arrived. Ever since, he'd been quietly anticipating its arrival.

His gambit had worked. The guard's attention had gone to him, the man's reaction to the threat immediate. Moretti recognized that his own response was slow, his reflexes possibly dulled by his need to be certain that he had captured the watchman's focus.

He felt the bullet tear through him, the pain momentarily distant, suffocated by his own stubborn determination. He took aim and returned fire.

10:34, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 15 using 1d100 with rolls of 15.  Firearm - Handgun.

10:34, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 8 using 1d10+2 with rolls of 6.  Damage - Handgun.

The Keeper
GM, 1310 posts
Fri 17 Feb 2017
at 20:51
  • msg #138

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

The guard nearly dropped his rifle as the blood began to flow from his midsection. He stumbled back, catching the desk with his free hand and slumped down against it on the ground, leaning against the desk, his eyes closed and the gun dropping from his fingers as he seemed to lose consciousness.

Out of nowhere, Tommy came hurtling through the air, slamming into the guard's unconscious body, a move that because of the angle at which the guard was resting against the desk cracked his neck, his head now lolling uselessly at the side.

OOC:

Combat is over.

Vincent Moretti
player, 333 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Fri 17 Feb 2017
at 22:03
  • msg #139

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti returned his pistol to his waistband and shifted his shoulders, testing the pain in his trunk. The wound throbbed, but it was tolerable. He'd taken beatings that had left him in worse shape.

He looked to Rosalie as he stepped over to Cotton. "Are you alright?" he asked, his expression concerned. Reaching down, he gave the reporter a hand up. "Nobody should ever question if you're game for a fight, paisan."

He glanced down at the corpse and crossed himself, speaking quietly. "Santa Maria, Madre di Dio, prega per noi peccatoti, adesso e nell'ora della nostra morte. Amen."

Crouching down, he looked up at the others. "We need to move quickly. Tommy, could you look upstairs? See if the mirror is up there? I'd do it, but I'm afraid you're going to be able to move a lot faster than I can at this point." He gestured to the dead man. "I'm going to get him out of sight. Put him in Gavigan's study." He shifted his attention to Rosalie. "You could use the phone. Call Avery. See if he's heard from the others."

Reaching in his coat pocket, he drew his flask from his pocket. He took a pull from it, then offered it to Rosalie and Cotton.
Rosalie Elias
player, 334 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Sat 18 Feb 2017
at 05:46
  • msg #140

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie screamed as the shot rang out, as shocked by Vincent's sudden appearance as the guard had been.  Time slowed to a crawl, and she watched helplessly as the rifle barrel rose and aimed at her friend.  The crack was deafening in the closed space.  She didn't remember backpedaling, but found herself pressed against the wall when the guard dropped.  Tommy's attack barely registered.  One hand covered her mouth as she stared in horror at the pool of blood slowly spreading across the floor.

---

"He's gone, Rosie," Gemma murmured.  "He was too far gone."

Rosalie looked at the blood covering her hands, still wet and slick, vibrant crimson in the sunlight.  Only moments before it had been pumping from the man's side, spurting through her fingers as she vainly tried to stop the torrent.  Shuddering, she wiped her hands on her apron which had once been pristine white and crisply starched.  Now, it wore a grisly patina that would likely never come clean.  Much like Rosalie, it would always carry with it the stains of war.

"You'll learn to identify which you can help and which are beyond it.  Some men just need a pretty face to look at one last time before they go.  We're here for that as much as we are to help the doctors."  There was a hollowness to their instructor's words and pity in the nurse's eyes as she looked up at her fresh-faced recruits.  "When there's nothing else for it, offer a few words of reassurance and comfort.  No man should have to die scared and alone.  Then wash up and move on to the next."

Rosalie stared down at the dead soldier as the seasoned nurse closed his eyes and murmured a prayer, crossing herself after.  Though her parents had never been particularly religious, Rosalie copied the gesture, though it gave her no comfort.  She could still see the man's glassy-eyed expression staring at her as the last breath of life fled from his body.

"Wash up and move on, like they said," Gemma prodded quietly.  It may have been harsh, but it was needed to rouse Rosalie from her momentary shock.  The green-eyed Irish girl gave her hand a squeeze.  "Let's get more bandages, Rosie.  We're going to need them."


---

"What did you do?" Rosalie asked in shock, staring at the dead man on the floor, one more face to add to the hundreds that still haunted her.  "What did you do?!"  Her eyes flashed to Vincent.

She slapped away the flask he offered and then struck him hard across the cheek.  "He didn't even have his gun pointed at me!  You didn't give him a chance to respond.  I could have brought him to you.  You could have knocked him out.  But... but... now he's dead!  We came to find the mirror, not to murder a man that was just doing his job!"

Tears were flowing freely and there was little she could do to stop the torrent.  "YOU COULD HAVE GOTTEN YOURSELF KILLED!  HE SHOT AT YOU!"  Her gaze fell to Vincent's blood-soaked shirt.  "Bloody hell... he shot you!"

Trying not to step in the growing pool of blood, she fished out her first aid kit.  Despite her distress, her hands were amazingly steady.  Her eyes, though, were like smoldering embers as she approached Vincent to bandage his wound.  "If you'd died, I would have followed you to the afterlife to kill you a second time," she said bitterly.  "Insufferable fool..."

With brisk efficiency, she tended to Vinnie's gunshot, ignoring his discomfort (not to mention the bare expanse of skin) as she pulled his shirt up and away from the wound and sprinkled it with styptic powder to help staunch the bleeding.  The bandage she wound about his torso was just a fraction too tight, and the look in her eyes dared him to protest the rough treatment.

"We'll have to dig that bullet out when we have the time," she said coolly.  Though she was once again composed and in control of her emotions, her words were clipped and her tone unforgiving.

After checking her own injury and applying a numbing cream to her cheek where she'd been struck, she put her things back in order and moved to use the phone to contact Avery.  Her angry gaze landed on Tommy as she passed.  "Well talk about how stupid your little move was later."


First Aid - Rosalie
Recovered 1 HP

First Aid - Vincent
Recovered 3 HP

22:01, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 33 using 1d100 with rolls of 33.  First Aid (80).
22:04, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 1 using 1d3 with rolls of 1.  Hit Point Recovery.

22:01, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 49 using 1d100 with rolls of 49.  First Aid (80).
22:04, Today: Rosalie Elias rolled 3 using 1d3 with rolls of 3.  Hit Point Recovery.

Vincent Moretti
player, 334 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Sat 18 Feb 2017
at 08:04
  • msg #141

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti didn't flinch when she struck him. How many times had he been cuffed while he was coming up? As a mere soldato, it was often the manner displeasure with his actions was communicated. Masseria, Spano, Pietro Mancini. Each one of them had struck him when he had acted in a manner that was unacceptable. To some degree, he'd become philosophical about it. You learned to become comfortable with violence by experiencing it.

He was silent when she bandaged his injury, numb to the physical pain, more acutely aware of her rage. Feeling a need to defend his actions, he said, "Rosalie, he wasn't just doing his job. He knew something. I sensed it. Tommy sensed it, too. A man in his profession is familiar with thieves. He understands that they only want to steal, not hurt people. He had no cause to..."

He stopped himself. It was pointless. It wasn't the guard. It was the fact that now she saw him for what he was. He would just have to learn to live with her hatred. "No. You're right. You're absolutely right. This is what you should have expected when you and Leo chose to bring feccia like me into this business." He gestured to the corpse. "Murders like his? I don't feel anything about them. Nothing. Make no mistake, Rosalie. I'm every bit as ruthless as the malvagità we're hunting." He buttoned his shirt closed and shrugged. "At least now you're finally able to grasp the truth."

He looked to Cotton. "I'll meet you upstairs as soon as I've dealt with the body."

He stripped the guard's jacket from him, wrapping it tightly around the fatal wound to momentarily halt any seepage of blood. Taking a grip under each of his arms, he dragged him quickly down the hallway to the storage room. After opening the sarcophagus, he threw the body over one shoulder and slowly descended the stairs, mindful of the trap he'd left behind. Once below, he placed the body in a corner of the room, one that would not be immediately visible to someone above.
Thomas Cotton
player, 419 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Mon 20 Feb 2017
at 11:45
  • msg #142

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy's shoulder struck the guard in the chest and even as the body slumped Tommy felt him go limp as a sickening visceral crack signaled the end.
The reporter's heart was pounding and for a moment he crouched over the unmoving corpse, half expecting it to move or its eyes to flicker open in sudden revenge. Instead the pool of sticky blood formed and Tommy stood.

Rosalie was already caring for Vincent. Cotton took a few steps closer to help the Italian steady himself propping him up while Rosalie cooly did her work. His shoulder itched and while the others spoke he barely listened, instead scanning the stairs and rest of the hall incase the noise had somehow alerted another opponent.

When at last Vincent seemed mended Tommy nodded and stood.
"I'll be as quick as I can. See if you can find a phone here to call the others while I'm up there.".

Without waiting for a response Tommy hurried up the main stairs to begin a sweep of the upper floor.

I'm assuming there is a phone on the main desk we could use? I'm also assuming that tracing who made calls in the 1920's was harder (i.e. they cant just hit redial to find Avery's number if we use their phone).
Anyway, for Tommy's search of the upper floor, here are 5 spot hidden rolls (3/5 successful)
11:42, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 270 using 5d100 with rolls of 94,63,79,26,8.  5xspot hiddens vs 70.


</small>
The Keeper
GM, 1311 posts
Mon 20 Feb 2017
at 17:50
  • msg #143

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rushing up the stairs, Thomas finds himself in a large room that is filled to the brim with glass cases, mummies, and an array of statues and other artifacts on pedastals throughout the room. Moving carefully between them, he makes a circuit of the room. Broad and tall windows graced the room on all sides, the floors were finished in marble, and a twenty foot vaulted ceiling gave the room the feeling of a museum, along with its contents. Along the front side of the building were three rooms that seemed well suited for the examination and study of artifacts. Moving along to the backside of the room there were three locked doors and the rear staircase that he knew would lead him back down to the first floor again. 




OOC:

You can find a telephone in the waiting room to Gavigan's office at his secretary's desk and one at Gavigan's desk. And yes, you can assume that 1920's telephony is significantly more rudimentary than the conveniences we have today.

Vincent Moretti
player, 335 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Mon 20 Feb 2017
at 18:01
  • msg #144

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Once the body was placed in the study below, Moretti returned to the first floor. After closing the sarcophagus, he moved as quickly as he was able across the hall and up the stairs to the second level.
Rosalie Elias
player, 335 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Tue 21 Feb 2017
at 02:17
  • msg #145

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie paused first in the washroom to wash Vincent's blood from her hands and then headed back into Gavigan's office.  She stopped at the secretary's desk and picked up the phone.  "Connect me to Strand forty-three forty-three, please," she asked the operator.  When the front desk answered, she asked for her uncle's suite where Avery would be waiting.
Thomas Cotton
player, 420 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Tue 21 Feb 2017
at 08:59
  • msg #146

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

When it became apparent the upper floor at least seemed unoccupied Tommy called back down the stairs "Seems clear up here. 3 locked doors-I'm getting to work.".

The reporter moved swiftly to the first closed portal and knelt to begin picking the lock.

(On mobile so struggling to use dice roller-go ahead and roll for me or I will update the post myself later)
The Keeper
GM, 1312 posts
Tue 21 Feb 2017
at 14:01
  • msg #147

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy managed to open two of the locked doors, though he struggled a bit with a third. The rooms he opened were both filled  with  flat-file  drawers  containing  what appeared to be countless  carefully  evaluated  and  catalogued  artifacts. Understanding them further was beyond his ability.
Vincent Moretti
player, 336 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Tue 21 Feb 2017
at 14:06
  • msg #148

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Coming up," Moretti called as he mounted the stairs. When he reached the upper floor, he scanned the area briefly, then moved to join Cotton at the locked doors.

Watching the reporter at work momentarily, Moretti knelt at the door that had given Cotton trouble, doing his best to unlock it.

08:02, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 13 using 1d100 with rolls of 13.  Locksmith - Locksmith 70%.
The Keeper
GM, 1313 posts
Tue 21 Feb 2017
at 15:22
  • msg #149

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Opening the third door, Vincent found the same as what Tommy had found in the other two rooms.
Vincent Moretti
player, 338 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Tue 21 Feb 2017
at 16:51
  • msg #151

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Merda," he muttered, stepping back and gazing at the contents of the three rooms. No sign of the mirror. If it could do what the writings claimed it could, Gavigan and the Brotherhood were going to use it to strike out at the Elias family, and the fault for any who came to harm would lie at his feet. It had been his failing that left the damned thing in the hands of their enemies. More blood to atone for. Like the watchman.

He needed to stop, he realized soberly. This idea that somehow, by helping to seek justice for Jackson, he could gain some measure of redemption, it was an illusion. A dying man's last minute hope for an appeal that would forestall a just punishment. However much he would wish differently, he had told Rosalie the absolute truth. The Brotherhood murdered those who got in the way of their aims, just as Joe Masseria did. No difference between the two. No difference at all.

His mindset had to change to have any hope of functioning as he was needed. He served the Eliases like he served the Morello crime family. Protect those that mattered. Kill those who opposed their aims. No more, no less. If he survived, he returned to New York, to the violent world that he understood. If not, he could be assured that his Mama and Emily would remember him, light a candle for him at Mass. For one such as himself, it was better than he deserved.

He took a deep breath and exhaled. The mirror. He looked to Cotton. "I'm going to check one other place, but I don't think it's here. Not unless it's tucked in a corner that we've somehow overlooked." He moved to the stairwell. "I'll be back up in a minute."

Returning to the first floor, he entered the last room on the left side of the hall, the one that was connected to the loading bay doors. Switching on his flashlight, he surveyed the area and its contents carefully.

10:39, Today: Vincent Moretti rolled 56 using 1d100 with rolls of 56.  Spot Hidden - Spot Hidden 60%.
The Keeper
GM, 1314 posts
Tue 21 Feb 2017
at 17:08
  • msg #152

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Vincent found himself in what appeared to be a staff room, with a few comfortable looking chairs and some tables that people could seat themselves around, and nothing more. He found an elevator door there as well, but no mirror was in this room.
Thomas Cotton
player, 421 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Tue 21 Feb 2017
at 21:06
  • msg #153

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy grunted approval without looking up from the files he was studying as Vincent made his way back downstairs.
The deep draws of paperwork were intimidating, but the reporter was no stranger to scanning a library or public record for information.
On a hunch he examined the filing system, trying to understand how items were categorised. If they were indexed by name he would look for anything relating to the Carlyle expedition. If they were categorised by region he would scan the Egypt section for anything dated around that same expedition or anything that seemed led by Aubery Penhew.
The Keeper
GM, 1317 posts
Tue 21 Feb 2017
at 21:53
  • msg #154

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:

Please give me a Library Use roll and also tell me how long you plan to spend doing this.

Vincent Moretti
player, 339 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Tue 21 Feb 2017
at 21:55
  • msg #155

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Stepping back into the hallway, Moretti moved in the direction of the main entrance, pausing to shine his flashlight into the two library rooms and the office on his right. Upon drawing close to the watchman's desk, he moved to the left, stepping inside each of the offices that were adjacent to the guard's station to search them.

OOC: Please let me know if there are any rolls you need from me, Keeper.
Thomas Cotton
player, 422 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Tue 21 Feb 2017
at 22:00
  • msg #156

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

21:57, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 36 using 1d100 with rolls of 36.  Library vs 55.

Regards time, I assume only 5-10 minutes unless Tommy gets the feeling he is on to something (like, if he finds anything on the Carlyle expedition, or a whole section on Aubrey Penhew in Egypt...and even then I think we would just grab the files without reading in depth).

Basically killing time until Vincent returns and Rosalie finishes the call. Then we are taking Vincent to his own safe house ;)

Rosalie Elias
player, 336 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 22 Feb 2017
at 04:29
  • msg #157

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"It's me," she said to the voice on the other end.  "No, we haven't quite found what we're looking for here.  Yes, yes, we're quite safe.  Has anyone else checked in?  Oh goodness! If they call again, please tell them that we are all in grave danger.  They know who we are and intend to deal with us.  We will be headed over to the others shortly.  I will check in again, if I can.  Oh, I do have one request.  Could you please make inquiries on a place called Misr House?  We will need to know where it is located when we return."

"Thank you, dear.  Yes, we will try to stay safe.  I will check in again, if I can.  Do be careful."  She hung up the extension and set the phone back on the desk, looking down with a sigh.

Leaving the office, she headed upstairs to find Tommy and Vincent.  The second floor felt like home to her and she began wandering through the various artifacts with interest, searching for any sign of the mirror, but also drawn to the massive amount of history carefully organized in the room.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:12, Wed 08 Mar 2017.
Lawrence Avery
NPC, 33 posts
Valet
Wed 8 Mar 2017
at 02:11
  • msg #158

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"That is unfortunate Miss Elias, I would have hoped you'd have had better luck. I'm glad to hear that you're safe. Yes, I have heard from them. Apparently they have lost contact with Mr. Bishop, and are searching for him. Dr. Elias suggested that I ask that you take on their next stop for the night, but if they are in danger as you say, perhaps it's best that you join them instead," he said.

"I will attempt to make inquiries into the Misr House, but the hour is quite late and I'm uncertain as to what I can accomplish from the room. Please be careful."

This message was last edited by the player at 02:11, Wed 08 Mar 2017.
The Keeper
GM, 1319 posts
Wed 22 Feb 2017
at 05:44
  • msg #159

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy can't find a section on Egypt, but he realized later that there wouldn't be one, given that Egyptology was the sole focus on the institute. He also couldn't find a section on the Carlyle Expedition.

In perusing the room, Rosalie also sees no trace of the mirror. What she does find is quite an academically interesting collection of artifacts and documents related to Egypt.

Vincent's sweep of the various rooms on the lower floor is equally fruitless. There is no sign of the mirror that he saw in the spice merchant's shop.
Thomas Cotton
player, 423 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Wed 22 Feb 2017
at 14:57
  • msg #160

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Letting the last heavy draw slide closed Tommy stood.
Nothing on The Carlyle expedition. Weird.

He frowned and took one final circuit of the upper floor, mentally picturing the space of the building to reassure himself there was no hidden area he had somehow missed. 'Bo and Bishop had said the mirror was in the place, but then again they hadn't watched the joint all day. It must have moved.

Hurrying back down the steps he reconvened with his comrades in the main hallway.
"Did you manage to get through to the others Rosalie?".
He glanced at Vincent with a frown.
"We need to get you some rest buddy. How you holdin' up?".

Ready to move on. I think we've taken care of the body and cleaned up the main hall...so only the evil cult should know about the break in (when they find the body) so they will need to deal with the police (or hopefully dispose of the body without bothering the police).
Vincent Moretti
player, 340 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Wed 22 Feb 2017
at 18:09
  • msg #161

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

The absence of the mirror gnawed on Moretti like a festering wound. He had been hopeful that they would locate it, to ensure that the others were free of its threat, to undo the failure on his part that had put them in peril in the first place.

"I'll be fine, Tommy," Moretti replied, "But I don't need any rest. Not yet. If we're going to go find the others, I want to come along. I need to. If they're in trouble, or if they've stumbled onto the mirror, I should be present to lend a hand. I have il debito di sangue. It's my responsibility to see it through."

He shrugged. "It's not the first time I've worked with a bullet wound. I'll manage just fine. I can get the thing carved out once we're sure la famiglia Elias is out of danger."

Despite the hitch he felt when breathing, he couldn't shake the craving for a cigarette.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:14, Wed 22 Feb 2017.
Rosalie Elias
player, 337 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 23 Feb 2017
at 03:51
  • msg #162

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

She joined the men in the hall after a brief survey upstairs.  "It's time to go.  I spoke with Avery and told him the situation. Apparently the others have been separated and they are currently searching for Stanley. Avery assured me that he'd warn the others if they check in again. He's also going to look into the Misr House, though he's not sure what he can find from the hotel room at this hour. I saw no evidence of the mirror upstairs. I assume no one else found anything, either?"  She threw a glance toward the front desk, frowned, and quickly turned away.  Shouldering her bag, she turned and headed for the back entrance.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:14, Wed 08 Mar 2017.
The Keeper
GM, 1323 posts
Thu 23 Feb 2017
at 05:54
  • msg #163

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

PM:
Thomas Cotton
player, 425 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Thu 23 Feb 2017
at 11:03
  • msg #164

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

With a final glance around to ensure things were as they were before the trio entered the museum (save for the grim corpse in the hidden room and Vincent's trap) Tommy gestured back toward the rear entry.
"No sign of the mirror that I could see Rosalie. Just some files but I didn't get far with 'em.". He frowned as Vincent spoke, but couldn't help but be impressed with the man's tenacity.
"Fine, but you're back up from here on out. Don't want you fainting on me when the going gets tough. Now lets roll.".
Flicking off the beam of his torch the reporter crouched by the exit, ready to leave the compound.

Ready to leave, but lingering because of that mysterious PM. Reckon we need to hurry to warn the others - PM, presume you will narrate us to the car (or whatever we have to deal with on the way to it)
Vincent Moretti
player, 341 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 23 Feb 2017
at 15:26
  • msg #165

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC: Don't worry about the PM. It was in response to a question regarding information Moretti picked up during his last circle of the museum. Nothing that would hold us up.
Thomas Cotton
player, 426 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 09:30
  • msg #166

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moving swiftly through the shadows the trio ducked out of the Foundation and back into the cold night of London. Bundled under his arm were the books stolen from the secret room and quickly they hurried back to the street where the car was parked. Wary of his surroundings the reporter glanced over his shoulder several times to watch out for prying eyes while Vincent and Rosalie tried to figure out who had the keys.


Id like to lock the Foundation door again behind us. If possible Tommy will pick up keys from the front desk or guards body, if not maybe we can simple let it click closed behind us, or failing that Tommy will attempt a quick lock pick for a minute or two. Our aim is for the place to appear as we found it, save for a missing guard (and the state of the secret room).
This message was lightly edited by the player at 09:40, Mon 27 Feb 2017.
The Keeper
GM, 1328 posts
Tue 28 Feb 2017
at 02:02
  • msg #167

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:

Tommy will find that there are no keys on the security guard's body, but he can make a Locksmith roll to attempt to lock the door that way.

Rosalie Elias
player, 338 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 05:24
  • msg #168

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie paused outside the door, looking to the street in search of anyone watching, still afraid someone might have heard the gunshots.  Once the boys were out, she started for the gate, no longer walking stealthily, but trying to hurry along and keep to the darkness.
Thomas Cotton
player, 427 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Wed 8 Mar 2017
at 19:23
  • msg #169

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

The lockpick roll I owe you to close the door behind us:
19:13, Today: Thomas Cotton rolled 49 using 1d100 with rolls of 49.  Lockpick (vs 57...so a pass)


As the trio slipped away from the Foundation they made their way to the parked car and hurried to leave the scene of their crime. The roads were quiet as they drove and with a glance over his shoulder to make sure there was no one behind them Tommy breathed a sigh of releif.
"How are you doing back there Vincent?".
They'd bundled the injured Italian in the back to give him room to stretch out, time to recover at least a little.
Vincent Moretti
player, 342 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Wed 8 Mar 2017
at 23:04
  • msg #170

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Don't worry about me, paisan," Moretti replied, his tone reassuring, "I've been hurt a lot worse than this. It's just a flesh wound. Nothing to be concerned about."

He looked out the window at the nighttime landscape of London, the darkened buildings and the quiet streets. Home to men like himself. "It's the others we need to be anxious for. Especially Stanley. It's not like him not to stay in contact. He's more careful that that."
Rosalie Elias
player, 339 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Sat 11 Mar 2017
at 06:33
  • msg #171

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie pulled her coat around her a little tighter, gazing out at the street as Tommy drove.  "No, it's not like him at all.  He could be in trouble, but I trust the others to get everyone out safely.  If we go to the docks, we could be mucking up things even worse for them.  Not to mention how large of an area we'd have to search.  We could drive around all night and not see them there, or miss them as they're on their way out.  We should stick to the plan.  They're expecting us to meet them at the Blue Pyramid."   
Vincent Moretti
player, 343 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Sun 12 Mar 2017
at 02:51
  • msg #172

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti nodded in silent deference to Rosalie's decision. Drawing the Webley from beneath his coat, he broke the weapon open, quietly loading fresh cartridges into the revolver, his attention occasionally going to the nightscape outside the window.
Thomas Cotton
player, 428 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 17:18
  • msg #173

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy drove, glancing at the rear view mirror to check for tailing vehicles and taking a circuitous route toward the Pyramid. The streets were predictably quiet, interspersed by the occasional rambling drunk or night shift worker. Peering upward the reporter wondered what the moon in her new phase looked like behind the dark winter clouds that drifted over the city.

He felt uncomfortable leaving the others, but Rosalie was right; they could spend hours searching the docks. Until they could check in again with Avery the Pyramid was the best place they could help out. For now.

"I'll drive by the place first right? Then swing around out of sight and pull over down the street.".


1 - Any public phone booths we can park by so we can check in with Avery again?
2 - Any side alleys, or unlit places we can park the car within viewing range of the Pyramid?
Would prefer to park on a side road or driveway peeking out down the pavement than pick a direction (incase our enemy moves in the opposite direction).

The Keeper
GM, 1339 posts
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 17:23
  • msg #174

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:

Sure, you can find a phone booth.

As far as parking goes, you can find a corner spot on a side street that gives you a view of the front of the Pyramid.

Vincent Moretti
player, 344 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 02:15
  • msg #175

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Once Cotton had found a spot to park that offered a good vantage point, Moretti cleared his throat. "I'll go make the first call to Avery," he said, "If he's heard anything new, I'll come back and report it. Otherwise, I'm going to take a walk. Not too far from here. I want to check in and make certain the Sabinis can supply the safe house we need."

He climbed out of the car, pulled his coat tight around him, and walked briskly to the nearby phone booth.
Rosalie Elias
player, 340 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 05:55
  • msg #176

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie watched Vincent until he reached the booth, then glanced to the street, searching for anything out of place.  Alone with Thomas, she finally gave voice to her former anger.  "That was a very stupid thing you did back there," she scolded.  "You're lucky you didn't get shot like Vincent... or worse.  He's a damned bloody fool.  I thought you'd be a bit more level-headed, Mister Cotton."
Vincent Moretti
player, 350 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Fri 17 Mar 2017
at 04:27
  • msg #177

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti returned from the phone booth. He handed Cotton a slip of paper, explaining that it was the address for the safe house. "I'm going to go scout it, just to be on the safe side. I won't be long," he said.

Leaving the pair to their vigil, he turned up his collar and headed off into the dark London streets. Once he was out of sight of the hired car, he drew his revolver, double checking the loads in the weapon before returning it to his waistband. Adopting as brisk a pace as he could manage, he walked purposely toward his destination.
Thomas Cotton
player, 429 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Fri 17 Mar 2017
at 20:02
  • msg #178

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy sighed gently.
"Neither of us went there looking to kill a man. Sure it was stupid. But we only had seconds to act...to figure out how to stop something even worse happening to you.". His voice trailed off and he glanced over his shoulder to see Moretti on the pavement heading back toward the car.
"Don't be hard on him. I did it because I'm stupid. He did it because of you. That guy needs to think better of himself-give him a reason won't ya?.".

Before they could talk further the door opened and Vincent delivered his message along with a shiver of cold air.
"Be careful paisan. If the truck comes and we ain't here, head back to the hotel ok?".

The Italian curled up his collar and vanished around a corner into the night.
Watching him walk made Tommy wince and regretting his words he spoke over his shoulder;
"Look, that man has a bullet in him. There's nothing happening here-I'll be ok if you want to give him a hand.

He kinda saved your life.".

Rosalie Elias
player, 341 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Sun 19 Mar 2017
at 07:32
  • msg #179

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Saved my life?  From a guard that had lowered his weapon?!"  She threw a glance at Tommy.  "Maybe, maybe not.  We will never know, will we?  That guard had yet to pull the trigger, and never got a chance to answer my question.  Because Vincent threw himself into the line of fire and got a bullet in his gut for his own stupidity."  She scowled.  "I think highly of Vincent.  Highly.  I know what he does for a living.  I know what he's been involved in his entire life, and it doesn't matter to me a snit."

"Yes, would prefer it if no one else was killed during this investigation!  Of course, I would!  Because enough people have died already.  That isn't reality, of course.  There will likely be more deaths, perhaps even some by my own hand if we are threatened, but we don't have to automatically assume that we need to kill everyone that comes across our path."

"The guard's death was disappointing, yes, but that's not really what made me angry.  Vincent is under some idiotic notion that his life is worth less than ours.  He's so used to being the lowest rung, the Italian solider, that he thinks he has to sacrifice himself for us.  Yes, I greatly appreciate him throwing himself into harm's way to save me, but in this case, it wasn't necessary.  He could have gotten himself killed!  THAT'S what upsets me more than anything.  He's throwing his life away when he doesn't need to!  And you were bloody well following in his footsteps!"

She pulled her compact and a handkerchief from her purse to cover the lines in her makeup that clearly marked the path of her tears.  "My life is no more important than Vincent's," she said quietly.  "Unfortunately, you will never be able to convince him of that."
The Keeper
GM, 1354 posts
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 22:58
  • msg #180

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

People seemed to be meandering freely between pubs a couple of pubs in Soho. There wasn't much activity at the Blue Pyramid, though every once in a while a patron did enter or leave.
Vincent Moretti
player, 357 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Sat 25 Mar 2017
at 20:33
  • msg #181

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Pain had begun to gnaw at his side when he finally neared the Blue Pyramid, the last of the lingering surge from the violence at the Foundation long gone. He could feel the dampness of the bandage build as he walked, sharply aware that he needed to allow himself to rest, if a few hours happened to present themselves.

He paused when he came back into view of the car, making certain that Cotton and Rosalie saw him clearly before approaching. Stepping over to the vehicle, he opened the driver's door. Drawing the garments he had discovered from his coat pocket, the robe and skullcap embroidered with the telltale inverted ankh, he handed them to the reporter.

He took a last pull on his cigarette, dropped it to the street, then climbed into the back seat. "I found a calendar, the same place I found the robe. It was marked February first. That has to be when the ritual will be held. I don't think we'll see anyone from the Brotherhood here tonight."

"Has there been any word from the others?"

Thomas Cotton
player, 432 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Tue 28 Mar 2017
at 21:32
  • msg #182

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy listened quietly, awkwardly even as Rosalie spoke. There was a tense passion in her voice and as tears glimmered in her eye he turned to face her, forgetting the Pyramid and the rest of the world for a moment.
"None of us wanted to be in this mess. It's not your fault or Vincent's what happened.

You're right-if we had more time maybe we would have acted differently but we did what we thought was most important; watch out for each other. That's the only way we will get through this.".


He sighed in acknowledgment at her next words.
"Agreed. We've gotta teach that idiot he's not expendable. Only way we do that is give him something to live for.".

About to continue Tommy saw a figure approach the car and cut himself off. Nodding silently toward the approaching Italian he went silent until the trio were together again. His eyebrows raised in silent question as he accepted the ritual garments and listened to Moretti.
"No movement here. No sign of the others either.

How's that wound holding up?".


I assume the Pyramid is still open and doing late night business?
Also, since it is gone midnight, are we on the 1st now?

Rosalie Elias
player, 343 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 03:03
  • msg #183

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie fell silent as she saw Vincent return and watched his progress, glancing now and again to the street to see if anyone was following.  She turned in her seat to peer at Vincent as he slid into the backseat.  "Found a calendar where?  And the robe?  I thought you were going to set up the safehouse."

"If the Brotherhood isn't going to do their ritual until the first, then there's no reason for us to stay here.  We could leave a message with Avery to let the others know where we're going and wait for them at the safehouse." 

Vincent Moretti
player, 358 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 03:45
  • msg #184

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"The safe house is set up," Moretti assured Rosalie. "I made certain everyone else could access it, even in my absence. Avery has those instructions, but we'll need to tell him that's where we're going, rather than keeping watch here."

He gazed out the window at the facade of the Blue Pyramid. "The robe and the calendar belonged to Cockburn, the guard at the Foundation. They were in his flat," he explained. Sighing, he added, "I needed to know. For my own conscience."

He managed a wan smile. "The wound's holding up, paisan. I think the bandage is soaked, but it'll keep. Fresh shirts aren't hard to come by."

Clearing his throat, he said, "I can make the call to the hotel." He stepped out of the car, pausing to light another cigarette, and made his way back to the phone booth.
Rosalie Elias
player, 344 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 04:13
  • msg #185

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Rosalie turned and sank back into her seat, putting one hand up to her face.  "I guess it wasn't for nothing, then," she said quietly to Tommy.  While justified in her anger at the way Vincent treated himself, his revelation made her feel sickened by how she'd treated him.  He had been protecting her, even if he'd gone about it foolishly.  I'm scared, she thought, realizing just how frightened she was that one of them would end up dead.  Like Jackson.  The ache of his passing was still far too raw.  If Vincent or Tommy had gotten themselves killed while trying to keep her safe, she would have never forgiven herself.
Thomas Cotton
player, 434 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 19:44
  • msg #186

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"No, not for nothing.". replied Tommy quietly. "And lets make sure Vincent knows that too; we are in this for something; for each other.".

As the Italian dragged himself down the street Tommy pulled himself out of the car to follow.
"You're brave paisan no doubt about that, but stupid sometimes!". He smiled encouragingly. "Will you just sit down and rest? I can call Avery.".

"Then, lets get to that safe house.".
Vincent Moretti
player, 359 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 04:39
  • msg #187

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti blinked in surprise as Cotton came up behind him. He considered a moment, then nodded. "Alright, paisan, you win. I'll stop for a bit."

He pulled out his memo pad, wrote down a number, and handed the slip of paper to Cotton. "But do me a favor. Call that number after you talk to Avery. Give the person who answers the password, 'In barca a vela'. Tell him Vincent Moretti needs to know where the Frenchman's shop is."

He took a draw on his cigarette, exhaled. "He's a veterinarian. Got into some kind of trouble in Paris. Fled to London. Now he sews up Derby Sabini's soldatos when things go wrong. He can carve the bullet out of me. You can drop me off there on the way to the safe house."

He paused, then smiled. "Thanks for seeing this through, Tommy. This kind of danger, most guys in your position would be in the next boat back to New York. You're a true friend."

He sauntered back to the car. Finishing his smoke, he dropped it to the street and crushed it, then slid into the back seat. A chill had taken hold of his chest and he drew his coat tightly about him.
Rosalie Elias
player, 345 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 05:56
  • msg #188

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

When Vincent returned to the car, Rosalie shifted in her seat to study him.  After a moment, she finally spoke.  "I'm sorry for slapping you.  You didn't deserve that, Vincent.  I know you were just trying to do the right thing; to keep us safe."

She paused, searching for the words.  "You were wrong back there, however.  I know what you do for a living, Vincent.  I've known for quite some time, and I could never despise you for it.  I would prefer if no one else had to die, but that isn't the world in which we're currently living."

She turned, glancing out of the driver's side window, her face silhouetted by the street lights.  "What truly upset me is that you put your own life at risk; that you don't value yourself like we do.  You are fearless, and that scares the hell out of me."

Her attention shifted back to him, blue eyes seeking his in the darkness.  "I care about you, Vincent.  Uncle Leo does, too.  You're as much a part of our family as Jackson or Stanley or Bo.  I hope... I hope that you'll one day let yourself believe it."
Thomas Cotton
player, 435 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 16:17
  • msg #189

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

After helping Vincent back to the car he left the keys in the ignition and made his way to the phone box near by. Taking the opportunity to make sure there was no one else near by, or watching, he picked up the handset and asked to be put through to Avery at the hotel.
The Keeper
GM, 1371 posts
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 17:43
  • msg #190

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

OOC:

Tommy, please play out the call in the Docks thread.

Vincent Moretti
player, 362 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Sat 1 Apr 2017
at 07:19
  • msg #191

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

It wasn't the first time Moretti had been thankful for the dark. In this case, it served to conceal some of the surprise that had overtaken his expression, ruining the well controlled demeanor that had seen him through so many negotiations and card games. He was momentarily speechless, uncertain of how to answer her. In his mind, it was akin to Masseria abruptly treating him as an equal, instead of an underling, and it left him without a frame of reference.

"You don't...you don't have to apologize, Rosalie," he said slowly, "You were upset, in shock. And my actions, they made you angry. You were just expressing your displeasure. It's something you're entitled to do."

"I shouldn't have spoken to you harshly. That was wrong of me. Inexcusable, really. I know you understand who I work for and what I do for them And I believe that you hold me in some regard in spite of it. But...I think if you had followed me around over the last few years, your opinion might be different."


Finding himself suddenly unable to look at her, he turned his attention to the window, watching Cotton as he made his calls. "I've justified what I've done, because of my mother and my sister. When Papa passed, the only thing I cared about was taking care of them." He looked down at his hands. "I've kept the code. Omerta. Honored it since I was seventeen. Last year, right around this time, in the deep of winter, Joe Masseria told me that because of my service to the family, I'd earned the care of my mother and Emily for life. No matter what becomes of me, they'll be watched after and protected."

He looked back at, giving a small smile and a shrug. "So, I'm finished. I did what I set out to do. Whatever's left is just finding an ending. Maybe trying to wipe away a few of the black marks I've collected. When I learned about Jackson, I knew that trying to find justice for him was the right thing." He swallowed, his throat thick. "He always treated me with kindness. Like a brother. I wanted to put a stop to the people that hurt him and, grace permitting, earn a little redemption along the way."

"But Rosalie...I'm not like Stanley, or Bo, or Tommy who's more than earned a place at your family's table. Were I to show up at your uncle's home on a holiday, in a suit and tie, looking all respectable, it would be just appearance. An act. Because deep down, I am corrupt. A criminal, just one of several dozens in Italian Harlem. And I'm well beyond saving."

"I'm honored to do this. To help avenge Jackson. To stop the evil he discovered. But I don't belong among the Elias family, no matter how much I wish that I did. I don't...I don't deserve it."

Rosalie Elias
player, 346 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Sat 1 Apr 2017
at 20:47
  • msg #192

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"None of us are angels," she said quietly.  Her gloved hand slid over the back of her seat and opened in invitation.  "But no one is beyond saving.  You were given a difficult choice and made the best of your circumstances, but the simple fact that everything you've done has been to keep your family safe is proof enough that there's more in your soul than darkness and corruption.  You volunteered for this, like all of us, and have already put your life on the line more than once to keep others safe.  You aren't the monster you think yourself to be, Vincent.  If it is redemption you seek, helping us find Jackson's killers, stopping this cult, will go along way toward that.  We're lucky to have you with us."
Vincent Moretti
player, 363 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Sun 2 Apr 2017
at 04:17
  • msg #193

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti regarded Rosalie for a moment, genuinely surprised by the kindness of her words. "I think you're giving me more credit than I deserve," he told her. He took her hand with deliberate care, just as he would that of a person due considerable honor and deference. "I'll do everything in my power to find justice for Jackson and keep your family protected, Rosalie. You have my word."
Rosalie Elias
player, 347 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Sun 2 Apr 2017
at 04:32
  • msg #194

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"I believe you, Vincent."  She smiled sadly into the darkness and then gave his hand a firm squeeze.  "How is your wound?  Has the bleeding slowed?  We need to get that bullet out as soon as we can." 
Vincent Moretti
player, 364 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Sun 2 Apr 2017
at 05:18
  • msg #195

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti waved a hand dismissively. "I'm holding up fine, I promise. I've already taken steps to get it taken care of. You and Leo won't have to trouble yourselves."

He glanced out the window at Cotton. "Tommy's going to call one of my contacts with the Sabini family. There's a man they use to sew their soldatos up, a former veterinarian. He can drop me there before you two drive to the safe house."
Rosalie Elias
player, 348 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Mon 3 Apr 2017
at 03:39
  • msg #196

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Alright.  He can probably do a much better job in a clinical setting than we could do in a kitchen.  Have you been to this safehouse before?  Is it truly safe?  Unknown to anyone?"  She threw a worried glance out toward the phone booth.  "Gavigan definitely isn't bluffing.  If he means to rid himself of us, he will surely attempt it."
Vincent Moretti
player, 365 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Mon 3 Apr 2017
at 21:49
  • msg #197

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti shook his head. "I've never had cause to stay at one of the Sabinis' safe houses here in London," he explained, "but I know that the family uses them when their members or associates are in danger from rivals, or being actively sought by the police. In my estimation, Scotland Yard is more persistent in such pursuits than the authorities in New York."

"Understand that in extending its use to me, Derby Sabini is, by extension, providing it to my employer. With the amount of imported liquor that the family in New York purchases from the Sabinis, Derby will not want to do anything to jeopardize that relationship. So I trust that the home is safe and known only to a very few."


He looked down at the floor. "The accommodations will likely be...humble. Not the sort of place that Dr. Elias, or Stanley, or...you are used to. I'm sorry. It's meant for people like myself who are on the run."
Rosalie Elias
player, 349 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Tue 4 Apr 2017
at 03:42
  • msg #198

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

She snorted in amusement.  "Really?  You think I've stayed only in high class accommodations for the entirety of my life?  While I do prefer a hotel with reliable hot water and a comfortable mattress, I've endured far less and was extremely happy to have it.  Jackson's expeditions into the wilds aside, where tents failed, blew away, or were impracticable, my father enjoyed dragging my mother and I all over Mesopotamia and the Mediterranean for months at a time on his expeditions.  Tents, huts, and tiny, vermin-infested apartments were the rule rather the exception."

"Also, I think there's a saying that clearly states that 'beggars cannot be choosers'.  None of us would balk at safety at this point, no matter how humble the accommodations."
Vincent Moretti
player, 366 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Tue 4 Apr 2017
at 04:29
  • msg #199

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

He did not look up. "I apologize Rosalie. I suppose I regarded la famiglia di Elias, at least in part, through my perception of your uncle's residence. It seemed an entirely different world to me as a child. It still does."

"If the house is sufficient to keep Sabini's men hidden from the vendetta of rivals, it should serve as a safe harbor from the Brotherhood. If all goes well, it will give us the opportunity to locate the Misr House, and Gavigan, before he has the chance to do you, or any of your loved ones, harm."

Thomas Cotton
player, 440 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 08:44
  • msg #200

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Finishing his call to Avery and Leo the reporter fished in his back pocket for the number Vincent had given him and tried it next.
As he waited to be put through he peered up the street toward the Blue Pyramid.
The Keeper
GM, 1374 posts
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 13:51
  • msg #201

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Tommy finishes his call to the hotel, and then subsequently contacted the dentist, who confirmed what Vincent had told him earlier and provided an address.
Rosalie Elias
player, 350 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 19:43
  • msg #202

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

She fell silent for a moment, gazing out into the night, watching the street and the Blue Pyramid.  Knowing that the cult's planned ritual was for another night was something of a relief and gave them a little room to breathe.  However, Rosalie knew that they were still in danger.  Gavigan and his followers could be looking for them, even now, and his first stop would probably be the hotel.  Vincent is right.  We need the safehouse right now.  It's too risky otherwise.

She threw the Italian a glance.  "Vincent, do you think that the woman that works at this establishment, the one that Thomas is sweet on, might know the location of Misr House?"
Thomas Cotton
player, 441 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 21:17
  • msg #203

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

The call to Vincent's fixer-upper was brief and pulling up his collar to shield against the cold night Tommy hurried back to the car.
Swinging round to face his companions he moved to start the ignition.
"Something is up with Leo-he didn't want to talk openly on the phone, but maybe it's just for the best and he's playing it safe. No big news from their end; I told them to meet us in an hour sharp by the scoop.".

He shrugged. "I didn't want to give out the full safe house address if Leo had reason to think the call could be monitored so needed some meeting place we'd all know.".

Anyway, I got the address for your 'dentist'. I say we head over there now and see if we can get you patch up a bit better buddy.".

Vincent Moretti
player, 367 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Thu 6 Apr 2017
at 01:38
  • msg #204

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti was considering Rosalie's question when Cotton reentered the vehicle. He nodded slowly.

"She very well might. I'll go ask."

He climbed out of the car, lit a cigarette, then cracked open the driver's door. "Tommy, go ahead and head over to the Scoop. You don't want to keep Leo and the others waiting. The quicker everyone is at the safe house, the better."

"I'm going to try to intercept Zubaida. It's late, so maybe I can catch her when she leaves. See if she can tell me where the Misr House is, or point me to someone else who might know. Once I've talked to her, I'll go over to the Frenchman's."


He glanced over at the Egyptian restaurant, then back at Cotton. "Don't worry about me, paisan. I will be just fine. Capisce? Get yourself and the Elias family to safety. I know where the house is. I'll catch up."
Rosalie Elias
player, 351 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Thu 6 Apr 2017
at 03:05
  • msg #205

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Vincent, are you sure?  I don't like the thought of leaving you out here alone.  We can wait for you to come out and drop you off at the doctor's place."  Concern tinged her voice.  "You know it isn't safe."
Thomas Cotton
player, 442 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Thu 6 Apr 2017
at 20:41
  • msg #206

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

"Its your call paisan. I reckon you're just trying to put off that visit to the dentist eh?

I like Rosalie's suggestion. We will wait here for 40 minutes; then head over to the rendezvous with the others. If you catch Zubaida before then, you know where to find us. But I imagine you may be waiting a while for her to finish her shift, in which case we will see you at the safe house tomorrow morning. Agreed?"."
The dentist might offer Vincent a bed and there was no need for him to rush to the safe house if sleep tempted him first.

"If for any reason we don't see you there, leave a message at that pub we met Zubaida in. The York Minster wasn't it?".
Always good to have a backup plan.

"Oh, and give Zubaida my love.".
Tommy grinned in an effort to lighten the mood. He was glad Leo and the others seemed safe for now.

"And please don't over do it...".
Vincent Moretti
player, 368 posts
Importer
Age: 31 App: 11 Siz: 15
Fri 7 Apr 2017
at 01:12
  • msg #207

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Moretti was quiet for a moment. "Don't worry about me, Rosalie," he said, "I'll be okay. You two meet up with the others, get to the safe house. Please."

He nodded at Cotton's suggestion. "If anything unexpected comes up, I'll do my best to leave word at the York Minster. If I don't turn up by morning and there's no message there, don't waste time trying to locate me. Just know that something went wrong and move forward with whatever course of action that's been decided on."

He found a grin. "I'll be sure to tell Zubaida that not an hour passes without you thinking of her, paisan."

He clapped Cotton on the shoulder then pushed the car door closed. Taking a pull on his cigarette, he pulled his coat tight around him and drifted down the street, into the shadows.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:14, Fri 07 Apr 2017.
Rosalie Elias
player, 352 posts
Historical Consultant
Age 34 App 11 Siz 11
Fri 7 Apr 2017
at 02:07
  • msg #208

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

It was pointless to argue or try to stop him.  He was right, and she accepted it.  Leaning back into her seat, she pulled her coat around her and watched Vincent until he disappeared.  Turning to Tommy, she tilted her head at the road in front of him.  "Let's go.  The sooner we meet up with the others, the sooner we can make sure that everyone is alright.  Vincent can handle himself.  We've waited out here, exposed, for long enough.  It's time to regroup and get to someplace safe."
Thomas Cotton
player, 445 posts
Age 24 APP 12 SIZ 09
Intrepid journalist
Sun 9 Apr 2017
at 11:53
  • msg #209

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Watching Vincent slip into the night Tommy and Rosalie lingered in silence. The reporter realised how tired he was and after 10 minutes turned the key to the ignition.
"Alright; unless he comes back in the next minute, we're off.".
The Keeper
GM, 1381 posts
Sat 15 Apr 2017
at 13:48
  • msg #210

Re: Chapter 2.3: Night at the Foundation [01/31/1925]

Vincent still hadn't returned by the allotted time, so as planned, Tommy and Rosalie left, heading towards their rendezvous with Leo.

OOC:
This thread will now be closed.

Please proceed to Chapter 2.4: Aftermath [02/01/1925]

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