ooc: Ok, I'm going to be merging everyone into one thread again, at least for the time being. I think we're only down to 5 players now so we'll see how everyone does in one thread for a smidge. You will still be splitting up naturally here and there due to the nature of the storyline, but I'm going to see how it goes with everyone together for a bit since there are fewer of you. Just be sure to not get too far ahead of those who can't post as often as others.

Kimi: ooc: Go ahead and post your rolls here from now on if you would be so kind :) I believe the next move is yours.

Father Simon/Colin: Lily looks amused at Father Simon's disapproving reaction to the Irishman but stays out of it. Thank you Father. I will send someone up to relieve you straightaway after I find Victoria. She informs you reassuringly. It was quite a fight indeed Mr. Browne. We're lucky to have survived it! Thank you for your help in that. I have a feeling you will be a fine addition here. She says approvingly. She moves to open the secret entrance to the tunnels and as she does you suddenly hear the sounds of a scuffle from below. ooc: I took the liberty of rolling your listen check Colin ;P

Kate/Penny: You take the hansom cab back to the headquarters and find Frederick out front looking expectant. Ian carries Penny and the red haired man looks concerned at the sight. Ian quickly explains that she will be alright and the fellow eases up a bit. What happened? Did you find anything out? We had quite the run in at her home. We were nearly caught, Kimi practically saved me singlehanded. He shakes his head. We found a journal of sorts I think. But it is written in a language I'm not familiar with. I'm hoping our boys can translate it somehow. The place was rather heavily warded. Nasty little spell too, made ya spit up bloody pins. He shudders at the memory.

Again with reflexes born from determination, Kimi went for the heart.

She yelled out "TO ME!!!" as she drove the stake down.

Simon nodded to Lilly and let them leave. He was ready to make himself useful if anyone else needed.

Still held by Ian, Penny answered Frederick with 'Kate suffered the same. We had a scrap with the Bentlys and their shifter minion. I'm afraid we learned little of use, and what we did learn is highly disturbing. But, by Jove, we gave the Bentlys what-for!' she boasted with British triumph.

'Wait, who nearly caught you? Both Bentlys were surely out of the house at the time, leaving only the maid.' Penny asked, trying to puzzle out what other minions or staff the Bentlys had.

Colin smirked at the priest. "Aye, father, I should watch me tongue. I can't promise it will stay civil, but all we can do is try," he said as he began to shrug out of his shirt. He threw the thing down in a bloody heap and started to inspect his injuries. He spoke again without looking up. "So, what was all tha fuss 'bout?"

"We did kick ass" Kate threw in with Penny's excited triumph. "How did the others do at the docks?" If Fredrick and Kimi had problems at the Bentley's house no doubt the others had a confrontation of their own.

Father Simon/Colin: As Colin removes his shirt Lily's eyes linger a moment longer than perhaps a proper woman should, then she blushes and looks away, apparently irritated with herself. She breaks into a scowl and as you talk, Lily strides over to the rug and throws it back, pulling open the secret door that leads to the tunnels underneath. As she heads over she speaks conversationally. The hand of Baal is believed to have dozens of summoning scrolls to call some very powerful demons to their cause. We have just successfully stolen them. She gives a satisfied smile, though she looks distracted by some thought that clearly has her unhappy. She interrupts herself though as she apparently hears something. What the hell was that?! She gasps, and then turns even more red, turning towards Father Simon. I am SOOOOO sorry! She claps her hand over her mouth. But there's something amiss down there. She draws her pistol and readies to climb down.


Kimi: The stake once again hits, but not in his heart. Instead it hits his throat, which would be fatal to anyone mortal. To him it clearly hurts, but he is not going to slow. He swipes at you with claws that suddenly appear as if out of nowhere. His teeth are also greatly lengthened and sharp as well. Any doubts you may have had are definitely gone now at this revelation. He barely misses you and with a curse he starts to run back towards the iron ladder, trying to make it to the surface. He is fast... Above you you hear a woman's voice, it sounds like Lily. What the hell was that!?

Kate/Penny: Frederick grins approvingly at Penny's exuberance, but seems more confused at Kate's words. You kicked their donkeys? He mutters. I doubt they were servants, they were well dressed but they seemed to have complete access to the house. He shakes his head. I don't think they were demons though. We would not have escaped as easily as we did. Nor did they appear to be witches or they would have been more difficult. I regret we could not have lingered to discover more, but we were not in the best of condition. In reference to Kate's question he turns solemn. We appear to have been successful in our mission, though I haven't had the opportunity to investigate the crates. They only just arrived a few minutes ago. He informs you. I'm worried about some of our soldiers though. Apparently things became more heated than anticipated. I am still waiting for them to return. Shortly I will be sending another round of men to investigate.

Simon makes sure his own pistol is loaded and follows the young people down. He had no intention of chastising them for enjoying the way their bodies looked. It was natural and should not be thought otherwise. Perhaps he would get the happy duty of performing a marriage! This really did excite him, not in a sexual way but in a way that serving God did. He nodded her was ready and followed them down.

'I believe Kate means we kicked their arses, at least metaphorically speaking.' Penny corrected Frederick fussily.

'Well, we know they had one shifter bound to their service — which we've now slain — so they may have have other minions. Shifters, maybe, or something else.' The flesh-eater stuffing bodies in the wall seemed likely, and would wrap the whole affair up neatly if it was also the spy, but Penny would not make assumptions. 'Regardless, the Bentlys and their minions proved more dangerous and prepared than any of us expected, and neither of our teams can say we were wholly successful. You need not be disappointed in that.'

'Let us go inspect these crates first, and see what we can learn from them. And please summon your doctor, if one is available.' Though she might be carried in Ian's arms, Penny was no less set on her course.

Kimi was ready for anything this creature might try, and she had expected it would attempt a close combat attack.

She whirled to a different position and attempted to use a kick to drive one of the stakes in deeper.  She had heard Lily, and she yelled out as she attempted her strike, a nice mighty, lusty martial yell.

Colin gave a mischievous grin as he noticed that he was being noticed. He never would get over the look that some girls gave him. While he was not a handsome man, he gathered that his natural lean figure and scoundrel charm is what attracted the girls to him. His thoughts caused him to nearly miss the sounds of Lily sending up the alarm of an intruder. His knives were out in a flash, but he strode into a possible fight bare chested. He also noted it was definitely not his first time doing such a particular task either.

Kimi: Nicholas manages to evade your kick, and he starts to head up the ladder, but looks up and sees Lily coming down and quickly changes his mind. With a savage curse he changes tactics and starts for the main tunnel entrance towards the rest of headquarters. He looks frantic, fully running away from you now...You also hear Lily call out to you from above, but you are obviously focused on more important things right now...


Colin/Father Simon: Lily leads the way, almost sliding down in her haste. Kimi!? She calls worriedly. She gets out of the way so that you two can join her. You see a young man, Father Simon you recognize it as the fellow who was so accusatory towards Ian earlier. He is running away and there are a couple of stakes sticking out of him. You also see Kimi there, the beautiful Japanese woman you met earlier. For Collin, she is new to his acquaintance, and you are a bit surprised to see such a woman clearly involved in recent combat in this manner. Still, this place is full of surprises...

ooc: Feel free to make a shot as he runs away. You'll only get one chance before he rounds the corner. Since he's running if any of you wish to pursue then make a few rolls adding your constitution modifier each time to see if you're able to continue your pursuit. DC is 10, so if you fail to make the DC don't bother rolling another time. It means you got tired :(

Kate/Penny: Frederick listens to Penny's comments about arses and looks a bit sheepish. Oh! Well that makes sense! I should have caught that... He blushes a bit. He quickly recovers though and leads you inside, Ian following with Penny in his arms. There are six crates, all good sized, and they are stacked against a wall. I haven't had a chance to inspect them yet. He confesses. He then goes to a wall on the opposite end of the room and opens a small shutter of sorts. It is a telephone. He fiddles around with it a bit and soon is requesting a doctor. In the meantime the crates reveal dozens of scrolls. Roughly forty per crate. Ian whistles, impressed. If these are anything like the other was, we may have just avoided something very unpleasant. He shakes his head.

ooc: Please roll a search or a gather information check and also let me know of any languages (if any) you are familiar with so I can tell you what you can determine.

Colin tried to run after but he was just to exhausted from the earlier fight. After a few steps he drop to his knees and then to his rear end. "Shorry I can'th keepth up. Shomeone shoulsh beth Wathing tha boxths."

In reply to Artemis (msg # 12):



Yelling up to Lily, Kimi says, "It's Nicholas!!! Head him off!!" and she takes off after him.  Pulling her Metal Baton from her belt, she runs for the tackle and beat down.


This message was last edited by the player at 08:04, Thu 27 Mar 2014.

Even Penny was shocked to see so many scrolls — every one of them to summon a demon, if the reports were accurate. 'My goodness. Baal on one side, Belial already here, and what must be almost three hundred lesser demons on the way. This is indeed an unholy alliance.' she muttered, a deep concern growing within her.

'Set me down here.' she directed Ian to sit her on one of the crates, so she could rummage through another. Penny picked up one scroll and began a close examination as she had done on the one Miss Noriko had retrieved by Richard Bently's store earlier that day. She inspected the type of parchment or paper; its quality, cut, and manufacture; how the scroll had folded and handled; the type of ink, the penmanship. Penny felt the paper, sniffed it, looked closely at it, but did not go so far as to lick it. Only after her scrutiny was complete did she unfurl it and examine the contents. In particular, Penny want to know if they'd been written by the same hand, at the same time or in the same way, and generally if they from the same source or multiple sources. Furthermore, could she find some clue to locate the scroll-maker? Finding and stopping whoever was fashioning these things would be vital to halting the influx of demons.

As she worked, she talked on 'I can't help but think this could all have been a bridgehead to an invasion. As it is, one crate's-worth of summoned demons could wreak havoc. How many more of these crates do the Bently's have?'


OOC: Search 23
19:46, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 23 using 1d20+10. Search.
Penny speaks, reads, and writes English, French, and Latin.

Examining the scrolls: Investigate 16, Knowledge (arcane lore) 16
20:13, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 16 using 1d20+13. investigate.
20:13, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 16 using 1d20+9. arcane lore.
And comparing to studying the other scroll in posts #228 and #233 in:
link to a message in this game

Colin was after the man in a flash. He stopped short and reared back his hand. Taking a moment, Colin whipped his arm forward and the demon killing knife whistled forward. His stride picked up without seeing the effect of the throw, but he was brought low by a sudden, wracking pain in his side. The throw must have agitated his currently delicate ribs, as they informed him of their injuries. He watched the man escaping as he struggled to resume the chase.

---

06:55, Today: Colin Browne rolled 6 using 1d20. Pursuit check.
06:51, Today: Colin Browne rolled 5 using 1d4+1. Thrown Knife dmg.
06:51, Today: Colin Browne rolled 22 using 1d20+8. Throw knife.

Kimi/Father Simon/Colin:
Alright, you stay with the crates. Keep Frederick with you!! We'll relieve you as soon as possible! Lily instructs Father Simon even as she bolts down the corridor after the man. Colin's knife buries itself in Nicholas's shoulder blade and he snarls in pain, looking like a regular pincushion by now. He proceeds to remove the blade and the stakes, flinging them savagely. Soon he is out of sight of you Colin, though Kimi and Lily both are keeping up. Lily starts to grab at him in an attempt to grapple but he turns and savagely slashes her across the chest with his claws. The wounds go deep and she lets out a cry of pain, dropping his arm. Nonetheless she continues her pursuit. Fortunately the momentary distraction has given you an opportunity to attack...

ooc: Where to Colin? Up the ladder with Simon or trot on after the others?

Father Simon: Should you head towards the crates again you will find that Ian, Frederick, Penny, and Kate are there already, looking through them.

Penny/Kate: Penny, you discover that all of the scrolls are different. They seem to be quite old, some more so than others, and of varying papers and lengths. They range in languages from Latin, ancient Greek, Babylonian, Samarian etc, and some you simply don't recognize. Their hands are obviously not the same, in fact there is very little in common save for the content, at least from what you can tell. From the Latin ones you can see that they indeed are summoning scrolls. You get the impression that a lot of work went into obtaining all of these. Frederick responds to your question. When we investigated we could not find any more crates like these. I'm hopeful that these are the only ones they have. I doubt we are so lucky as to have their only stash, but if there are more I don't know if the Bentley's have them or if they are elsewhere. He shakes his head. From what we do know of the Hand, they are enormously well equipped. It is said they are trying to bring on an early apocalypse. Though they may change quite a few things if they have their way. Already they are deviating from several of the prophecies found in numerous texts about the horsemen and plagues and the like. If this is indeed their goal, they are doing it on their own terms. He says darkly. This means we have no idea what to expect unfortunately.

Simon holstered his weapon and climbed back up to the crates. As he enters the room it is clear he has been through a severe beating. His lip is bloody and swollen, he is having trouble breathing, he is pale and sweating, and most notable the side of his face is swollen and bruised, like he has had a tooth removed by a dentist who uses hammers for his work. He seems very tired, like he is moving on will rather than energy.

"Oh. I yam thowwy. I wath comink tho thee abouth theth crath. We fougth thom dehmonth. I think I dithlocatheth my thaw. Docthor Sthefath seth it, buth ith hurth tho thalk. I yam glath you all are othay."

Oh I am sorry. I was coming to see about the crates. We fought some demons. I think I dislocated my jaw. Doctor Stephen et it, but it still hurts to talk. I am glad you all are okay.

He is especially glad to see that Penny is ok, but he does not express this other than with a slightly longer look at her. He sits on one of the crates heavily. He really should be seen to, but he is being stubborn as men are prone to when they want to seem macho.

Kate dropped the scroll she'd been looking at back into the crate. How did they manage to get so many of them?" she asked in awe. There was the potential for lots of trouble and mischief in these crates.

"You look terrible," she said bluntly to Father Simon when he arrived. Suddenly her scratchy throat didn't seem so bad. "We have a doctor coming to look at Penny. Maybe they'd better take a look at you too."

Penny looked up in alarm as Father Simon entered with a face full of bruises. 'Good lord, are you well? It seems we have all been through the wars, Miss Piper and Shaw, and—' Penny trailed off, but fussily readjusted her skirt as Simon's eyes lingered on her.

Penny had unrolled scroll after scroll, telling at a glance that every one of them was completely different, noting some peculiar fact she dropped them contemptuously back in the box. 'Latin, ancient Greek — oh, I wish I'd learned that — and Hebrew. And these ones are in cuneiform, of all things, Sumerian, Akkadian, and Babylonian, perhaps. Egyptian and South American hieroglyphics too. And a dozen more ancient languages, I expect. Who speaks these any more but demons? Paper, papyrus, cloth, several varieties of parchment: vellum, and I do believe this one is human skin.' She put that one down carefully and respectfully. 'And the handwriting styles are all different: male, female, old, weak, timid, bold, florid, plain... I'm certain this scribe had claws, see how they scratched the ink? And ages, ranging from centuries old and to what must be millennia to accommodate these dead languages. Astonishingly well-preserved, but this one still crumbles.' She tossed the last back in the crate. 'And every one a demon-summoning spell. It's an impressive collection, no doubt sourced from a hundred magical archives, rare document sales and thefts, lost stores, ancient ruins, from around the world, over quite a long time with a great deal of effort. It's enough to make the Library of St. John the Beheaded jealous.' Penny's eyes flickered to Simon, wondering if he recognised the reference.

'We have here the demon army one needs to launch a bespoke apocalypse. This is a fantastic victory in our war against the Hand,' she complimented Simon and Frederick. 'But would that you had thought to drop a lit match in the Bentlys' other crate. We would do well to destroy these after further examination. But,' Penny traced a delicate finger along one scroll and onto the next, intrigued by the magical workings, fascinated by the immense power trapped within these writings. It was an old kind of science. Why not use such darkness against itself? There was a temptation there, but also a sensible degree of fear. But when had the Darkmoors ever let fear or notions of what was right and proper stop them, as Penny herself exemplified? 'These could be useful to us as well. Imagine, up to around two-hundred-and-eighty demons of note, at our beck and call. We could bind them in devil's traps, interrogate them, send them false information, slay them outright. We could remove whole ranks of demonic leadership, throw their plans into chaos, cause havoc in Hell and keep them far too busy to bother Earth for a century at least... Yes, this is indeed a massive victory for us.'

Simon realized he had made Penny uncomfortable and looked away quickly. He looked back at Kate, "You thould sthee tha other guyth." He tried to joke but when he smiled he winced at the pain. "I reath Greeth." You should see the other guys. I read Greek.

He nodded at Penny's reference to the Library. "Or tha Vathacine Library of tha Occult." He listened in horror at her plans. "Penny, men dieth for thith. Many dieth. Whath you thugeth ith blathphemy. 'Never raithe more Devilth than you can put thown.' I agree thath we thoulth uthe thethe throllth - buth with cauthion. Rathing dehmonth thould noth be thone. Giving tha enemy a way tho our worlth...evil ith noth fire. Evil begtth evil."
Or the Vatican Library of the Occult. Penny men died for this. Many men. What you suggest is blasphemy. 'Never raise more Devils than you can out down.' I agree that we should use these scrolls, but with caution. Raising demons should not be done. Giving the enemy a way to our world...evil is not fire. Evil begets evil.

He was hurting so badly from the effort it was bringing tears to his eyes. "I'm thorry. I am in pain. I neeth ta reth." I'm sorry. I am in pain. I need to rest.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:32, Fri 28 Mar 2014.

The vehemence and impact of Simon's protest was rather muted by his unfortunate lisp. 'And what is the alternative? Hunters are forever slaying or exorcising these demons, only for their spirits to return to Hell to start again. Why not some kind of prison? Imagine it, a row of jars on a shelf, each containing a black demon soul and resting on a devil's trap, contained forever. A true punishment for their crimes. Why, a priest could hear their sins and forgive them, maybe even devise a way to save their damned souls. Is that not better than releasing them to kill again?' Penny suggested, believing Simon would see the merit in that, according to his faith.

'Well, regardless, my ideas are getting ahead of me. It's just an idle fancy, a hope we might one day seriously turn back the demon hordes. But I doubt anyone has the resources to effectively implement such a scheme. And it's up to the Men of Letters to decide.' Penny added, backtracking on her idea.

Colin rose, his legs shaky and ribs hurt severely. He looked down at himself. He was bloody, shirtless, and in pain that needed to be addressed. He clutched his ribs and hobbled his way up the ladder. Upon seeing the others as he breached the top, Colin merely rolled out onto the floor, arms out to his side. He smiled at the ceiling, laughing quietly. He spoke to no one in particular. "Anyone of ya know a good tailor ta fix me shirt?"

Simon managed to lisp his way through an introduction of the bawdy Irishman.

In reply to Artemis (msg # 17):



Swinging at the creature, Kimi did her best to bring it down.  She poured her energy into a guttural cry as she did.

Penny looked up at the sound of the Irish brogue, finding she and Shaw were not the only Britons here in New York amongst the Men of Letters. And goodness, what was with all these shirtless, injured men in need of her ministrations? Regardless, she wasn't moving anywhere off her crate.

'Only in Britain, Mister Browne. Good evening.' said the Englishwoman. She realised he should not be in such a condition here and now; if he'd just come back from the mission, then he should surely have seen Doctor von Stein for treatment already, like Father Simon had done. But then, who could say with Irishmen? He might have been brawling at the pub. 'What's happening?'

Kate's eyes widened at the newcomers condition as he sprawled out on the floor. Was he drunk? It was hard to tell. He looked almost as bad as Father Simon. "I'm thinking our fight with the Bentley's was a cake walk compared to the people who went to the docks." She winced apologetically at Penny remembering the woman had lost the use of her legs.

"Is there a reason none of you guys have seen a physician yet? I mean I'm all about going the distance and everything but really? Ian was shot, Penny can't walk. Father Simon honestly I don't even know what you are saying. And this guy..." she waved her hand at the man on the floor smiling up at the ceiling. "should really get checked out."

Simon pointed down through the hole. "Dehmonth" Demons

'Demons? Here? How?' Penny exclaimed, sitting bolt upright and nearly standing to her feet if it weren't for her useless legs. She groaned at the sharp reminder of her weakness. 'Why did you not say so earlier? We must get to the defense.'

Simon shook his head, "Won dehmonth. Lithly and Kimi shathing. Fath, very fath. Chathe it, couth't keep up. Gone in tunnelth. I came back to guarth crath and throllth." He knocked on the box underneath him.

One demon. Lily and Kimi chasing. Fast, very fast. Chased it, couldn't keep up. Gone in tunnels. I came back to guard crates and scrolls.

He pointed at Penny, "Wath wrong with legth? Tho you neeth help?" Simon is clearly far more worried over others than himself. Whats wrong with [your] legs? Do you need help?

'Bloody hells.' Penny muttered, momentarily forgetting her manners. She wanted to help hunt down the fiend, if it weren't for her crippled legs. She shuffled her seat on the crate as Simon asked, straightened her skirt, embarrassed by the question. 'Mrs Bently cursed my lower limbs. They are... withered and useless. I cannot walk.' she finally answered him, stiffly and setting her gaze on the scrolls.

Simon knelt beside Penny and took out his Rosary. He began to pray earnestly and mostly silently, if still with his lisp, for divine intervention on behalf of Penny.

As he prayed he did not touch her, but he did make open handed motions above her body.

"Jethuth. Amen."

ooc: There are a lot of posts to wade through, so my apologies if I miss anything!!

Kimi: You manage to hit Nicholas quite nicely and Lily is able to shoot him in the back. By now he looks absolutely awful and his attempt to slash at you does little good. He sinks to his knees, panting heavily. Alright! Enough! Enough! Don't kill me! I will do anything! I'll tell you anything! He begs. Lily, still wincing from her chest wound, exchanges a look with you, keeping her gun on the now surrendering fellow. What do you think Kim? She frowns, looking angry and triumphant all at once. I'm thinking that we may want to interrogate him before we run him through. Suddenly a figure approaches from the tunnel. It is James Smithson, one of the Men's best doctors. He comes bearing his healing kit and he notices you with surprise. Goodness! Frederick just phoned to say that Miss Dreadful and Ian were in need of assistance up top, and now I come across this. Is that Nicholas?! Do you need any help? Lily waves him away. I'll be fine anyway, what about you Kim? Yes, it is Nicholas, but obviously there's more to the story and I appreciate you keeping this quiet for now James. Her voice has a warning tone that will not be refused. You know what Kim? In the end it was the women who took this little snake down. How wonderful! She laughs. But then knowing her mistrust of men, it is not surprising the woman should be pleased.


Everyone else:
Demon? Are you sure? That should be impossible. This place is warded against anything like that. Frederick protests, looking upset. He then wordlessly draws his pistol and heads down the ladder, moving quickly. The doctor should be here soon! He calls. It just takes a bit of time to get up here sometimes. Then he is gone. Let me know if you need help!! Ian calls after him, looking a bit torn between wanting to keep an eye on things up here and following. He strides over to Colin and offers a hand to help him up. You look awful friend. The Scotsman laughs. Don't worry about your shirt. We can replace it for you. I can't tell you how many clothes I've gone through in this business. As he speaks, the warehouse doors open and you see several bedraggled and bloody men limp in. Colin, you recognize them as the soldiers from the dock who were with you. There are many missing. The look up at all of you in surprise. Looks like you've all fared about as well as we did. One man shakes his head. Did we at least complete whatever the wretched mission was? I hate being left in the dark when we're dying out there. Ian gives you all a look as if to say, 'don't give him details...' Instead he nods the affirmative. Some of the men look so horrible it is clear they could use medical attention right away. Clearly this was a costly battle for everyone.

Kimi nods once. "Please my friend keep the gun trained on his head."  She turns to the man named Nicholas.  "How did you come to be here, and why?" Kimi's eyes were hard and determined.

Penny sat primly on her crate as Father Simon made his prayers, and wondering if something was supposed to happen. She didn't feel any better.

As the men spoke, Penny had little to add. They didn't seem too concerned about this demon, so maybe the matter was well in hand. A demon would certainly explain the spy in the Men of Letter's ranks; likely it had possessed one of the members. But who? Penny was peeved that she'd not had a chance to solve the mystery before the fiend was revealed and caught. Had her analysis of the bodies entombed in the wall even led to its capture? With Emma Bently's escape and her crippled legs, she felt herself to be a dismal failure so far.

At Shaw's warning glance, she didn't say anything. Instead, she turned her attention to the crates themselves, examining the type wood and any shipping details printed on them. Maybe she could discern where these had ultimately come from.


OOC: Studying the crates, where have they come from and where have they been? Investigate 21.
09:04, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 21 using 1d20+13. investigate.

Colin smirked and gave the Scotsman a nod. "I've gotta say, what a fecking mess this turned out to be. Be glad ta have some of the old gang from over ta pond here. Ya Brits are right tossers, but are damn handy in a scuff up!", he chuckled as the Scottish and British accents caused his own language to drift back to the streets of Ireland. He was about to continue his cajoling when the stragglers came in. He jumped to them, propping a man up as he came in. They were all in rough shape. He chuckled again and spoke in a hesitant, but lighter tone. "Oi, lads! None of ya go dyin' on me now. I told ya the next round o' drinks was on me." He gave a 'come help me' look to any who made eye contact.

It was just like the high-class Brit to rut around the crates of antiquity while men lay, likely dying, in her presence. He helped where he could, wracking his brain for any of the local doctors and gang medics that could help and letting people know.


21:44, Today: Colin Browne rolled 32 using 1d20+12. Knowledge[Streetwise].
Colin will try to help the men by instructing the more able bodied survivors to places of men Colin knew would help, even if it was for a price.

Simon had to give the incoming his attention. As he stood he reminded Penny to have faith. Then he went over and started giving what aid he could to these brave fellows.

08:08, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 17 using 1d20+10. Treat Injury.

Penny hardly stirred at Browne's rough language or crude insult. 'Hmph. Someone has got to have the brains in the group.' she returned archly. 'But I've never complained to have a Scot or a Paddy by my side in a scuffle. I'd say all we need now is a Welshman, but our Mr Jones is a demon on the other side.'

Finishing her examination of the crate, Penny sighed and waved one of the injured men over. 'You fellow, come here.' She unrolled her first-aid kit and scrutinised the man's injuries, hoping she had enough left bandages left to patch up a few more wounds, or at least enough morphine to dull some pain.

'Mr Browne, is that a Shelta accent I hear? Do you perchance know Patrick "the Shillelagh" McGrath?' she asked, referring to the famed Irish hunter Pádrig Mac Craith and his heavy club that had staved in many a monster's skull.


OOC: Treat Injury 13
20:49, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 13 using 1d20+2. treat injury.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelta
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shillelagh_%28club%29
This message was last edited by the player at 00:08, Wed 02 Apr 2014.

Kimi: The doctor, seeing he is not needed, quickly goes up the ladder, though he looks very curious as to the goings on here. Meanwhile, Lily obediently keeps her weapon trained on the man. What is it Kimi? Were those aspen stakes? That could be a great many things. I like to know what we're dealing with. In the meantime Nicholas responds as well. I was brought here by Belial himself. It was he who created me and I served him as a spy, amongst other things. I won't say anymore until I have some kind of assurance of a deal. He adds. By then Frederick has joined you, immediately training his own weapon on the man. Don't mind me. He grins. Lily frowns in thought, trying to place the name Belial. Being a native, she sometimes has trouble with such things.

Everyone else:

Penny, the crates look to be well made, newly fashioned of young wood, and they also have a manufacturing stamp that indicates they were assembled in upstate New  York at a company called Borings Carpentry and Woodwork.

Meanwhile, Ian goes to help the wounded as well, and they seem grateful for the assistance. Soon thereafter a man emerges, announcing himself to be the doctor, James Smithson. Between his and Stefan's instructions you are able to do a decent job of patching up the smaller wounds while the professionals deal with the most grievous of injuries. Ian tells James that Penny will need his help too and whispers something in his ear. He looks at the woman with a concentrated frown, then with a nod he finishes up what he is doing and rinses his hands before heading over to her. He situates her in such a way that no one else can see and raises her skirt slightly to look at her legs. Ah. This is an easy fix, don't you worry. He says kindly. He then takes a few things from his satchel. Holy water, some silver coins with strange symbols on them, and some black powder with a strong, pungent smell. He mixes them in a small clay bowl, mutters something unintelligible, and bids you drink. Just don't swallow the coins please. He chuckles. Should you choose to obey him Penny, you find that your legs begin to tingle and burn and moments later you feel their strength returning and their appearance changing back to your normal features as well.

Colin, the men seem grateful for your information, and you get the sense that they have taken to you between your actions back at the docks and your current helpfulness. No doubt they sense a kindred spirit in you and some of them clearly seem the rough and tumble type that you would feel so at home with. Nice to know that there are so many walks of life here at least. Did anyone else see all the bodies at the docks? One of the men shudders. Dozens of them, all floating limp. The coppers are gonna have their hands full with all this. You may want to have a look about tomorrow Ian. Who knows what your old team will find out that we missed. We didn't exactly leave the place tidy you know. Another adds, We'll be needing to go claim some of our own too I'm afraid. He finishes darkly.

Kimi nods to Fredrick, then to Lily she says. "This is a creature of murder and terror Miss Lily.  The Aspen stakes are like fire and poison to it.  It was risen from a grave of a dead man.  It terrorizes the streets of the lower areas of the city, and I saw it tear a poor French man into pieces." Kimi pursed her lips. "It needs to feed upon those it attacks, I do believe those poor beings we found in the walls, are it's handy work."

She then looked to the creature. "What assurances are you seeking evil one?"

Knowing nothing of Jewish or Christian religion, Kimi looks to Fredrick. "Do you know of this Bellal?"

After making himself useful, and when he is sure everyone else has been tended to, he approached the doctor and asked for help with the pain and swelling in his face.

Facing away from the others, Penny sat primly as Doctor Smithson peered under her skirt at her shrivelled lower limbs in their lace stockings. She bit her lip, stared at the wall, and trying not to think overmuch about it. She was no stranger to a medical examination down there, but the circumstances and her recent deformity made it more embarrassing than most.

She relaxed, though, as Smithson seemed a gentle man and promised a cure. Penny watched fascinated as he mixed up his concoction of holy water and silver and so forth, and felt a prickling down her neck in awe. She was in the presence of magic, controlled and safe, not a dark and crippling curse. She took the mortar bowl with some trepidation, wrinkling her nose at the pungent aroma. But rather than struggle through small sips, Penny drank deep and quick of the potion, and spat back a silver coin.

The strong tingling and burning sensations that followed were uncomfortable but preferable to the earlier numbness, and Penny felt her legs swelling as they regained their earlier muscle mass. She lifted her skirt to see her calves had turned back to normal. Then, with great effort, she found she could raise one leg and then the other. Gingerly but eagerly she climbed to her feet; though she found herself still rather unsteady, she could stand unaided and walk slowly. 'Thank you so very much, doctor.' Penny said with a delighted smile, vigorously shaking his hand. With the same smile, she looked back to Ian, Kate, and Simon to indicate her cure. She was glad to be able to walk again, to have her independence and strength back.

The addition of her ash-wood cane, fetched up from her equipment stored at the Men of Letters base, allowed Penny to walk more reliably. With Father Simon seeing Dr Smithson, she hobbled over to Ian and Kate to see how things were going.

Colin saw to what he could on the men. They we all fighting the good fight. No need to make things more complicated with his attempts at medical care. He patted the last man he help on the shoulder and rose to his feet. He removed the little flask from his back pocket and took a pull before tossing it to the group to be shared. He reached into his pocket again and fished out his cigarette case, rolling and lighting one with the quickness and proficiency of someone who has been doing it a lifetime.

He pointed at Penny with two fingers, the cigarette hanging in between. "Ye'll be here something close, but not actual Traveler. Born in Galway and moved here when I was young. Ya spend enough time with tha Yanks and the tongue follows. As for yer question, I don't go around seekin' out those that do what we do. No as a habit," he said with another long pull of the cigarette.

Kimi: Lily listens with interest. So not a demon then. She muses. Meanwhile Nicholas answers you nervously. I want the assurance of life! Such as it is. I have no wish to die again. I did that once and I did not care for it. Keep me a prisoner if you wish, but let me live!

Belial? Frederick repeats, looking shocked. He is one of the vilest of demons! One of the first created! Why, is Nicholas involved with him somehow?! He sounds worried. Come, this is not a conversation for the hallways. Take him into the study. He offers, holding open the door for you.

Everyone else:
The doctor gives Penny a pleased nod at her thanks and quickly tends to Father Simon's face. With a quick prayer in what you think is Aramaic, as well as the use of some holy water, your face feels considerably better, albeit still sore. I can only cure minor injuries I'm afraid. He explains. More severe things require more traditional approaches. Hopefully that helps some at least. If you remind me when this is all over, I can teach you. He offers.

Ian goes to the phone then and makes a quiet call, then he comes back, getting everyone's attention. Alright, Victoria is on her way to debrief you. Those of you who are able, head on down now. The infirmary is being prepared. Anyone who can't walk will be lowered by pulley. I will see about getting our fallen tomorrow, though I will need someone to come with me. You lot, please stay with me for the moment while I tie up a few loose ends. He addresses you with a look towards the crates. The things for the pulley system are readily available and soon the severely wounded are being lowered down. The doctor surprisingly stays behind, waiting for the others to leave and clearly wanting to tell Ian something but apparently he is uncomfortable about it.

Simon responds at the healing. "Thank you, very much. Yes I would greatly appreciate learning to do what you have done here. I want to be of use to these others as you have been."

Kate did her best to help the wounded as she was needed. There were a lot of injured and she felt a little guilty that she herself was in such good condition.

Once the injured were cleared she waited with interest to see what their instructions would be.

Penny did what more she could do to help the injured, walking from one to the other and using the opportunity to practice walking around again. Her legs were still infirm and unstable, as if she was learning to walk again like a baby or newborn foal. But she was gradually becoming stronger and more confident. At Ian's request, she waited beside the crates, idly looking the summoning scrolls over.

Kimi sees no reason to move from there they are. "No I do not think we will move from here."  She says to Fredrick, "Begin to speak creature, I will make a promise that you will live."

Then to Fredrick, Kimi said, "Please bring Mr Westbrook to us Fredrick."

Kimi: Frederick looks a bit stressed at your response. Miss Noriko, most of the members here do not know about our ranks being infiltrated. If they see Nicholas this way they may begin to get suspicious. If there is more than one spy here it will certainly tip them off and we don't want to do that. He turns to Nicholas. IS there more than one traitor here? Nicholas nods slowly. Yes. Belial is most thorough. But I am afraid I can't just trust your word unless I see Westbrook confirm it. You may want to give in to my demands, but without his approval I am still in danger. Lily nods to Frederick to go find Westbrook, meanwhile proceeding to start to hide the stakes. There will be a lot of traffic coming through here soon Kimi. Do you want to stay still or should we do this elsewhere? If we stay here we're going to have to at least come up with a cover story for why he's like this. She gestures to his various wounds.

Everyone else: After what seems an eternity, the room is yours again. Once he is sure that no one can hear, Dr. Smithson approaches Ian. Sir, I saw Miss Noriko and Lily in the tunnel with Nicholas. He was littered with stakes, aspen is my guess. I-I don't think he's human. He looks worried. But how is that possible? We have protection spells in place. Nothing non-human should be able to enter here. Do you know anything about this? Ian shakes his head mutely, frowning in thought. No. I'm afraid not. For now speak of this to no one while I investigate. We wouldn't want to panic anyone now would we? He gives a smile and pats the man on the shoulder reassuringly. Looking a bit relieved, the doctor gives a shaky nod. Alright. As you wish sir. He turns to Father Simon. I must go to the infirmary now to finish up. When you are free later you can find me and I will teach you a few things. He then heads out.

Once you are alone, Ian quickly produces three large leather sacks and proceeds to hand them out to Colin and Father Simon, keeping one for himself. Alright everyone, we've got to get these out of here fast. We'll need to smuggle them in the East entrance and then put the crates back the way we found them. It would be best if we could keep as many people as possible in the dark. Who knows what spies there are, and if we try to bring the crates or are seen with the scrolls, it won't be long before Belial finds a way to get at them. In fact, I think headquarters may be one of the worst places for them, but I need to time to think of somewhere better to hide them. He shakes his head. I don't suppose anyone has any brilliant suggestions? Once it is hidden I can ward it against thieves. He starts to quickly and carefully fill up his bag with the scrolls, of which there are dozens.

Kimi does not see the need to do cover anything up.  Let the other be exposed, "If you feel it is needed then it will be so."  She reached for the stakes Lily had picked up.  She then indicated that 'Nicholas' should move through the door into the study.

Simon takes the leather satchel and helps with the crates. Ian proclaims the name of the demon, and Simon goes white(er). "Belial, Lord of Lust, commander of The Legions of Succubi. If Belial is involved, we must all tread lightly. We must be on our guard at all times, lust is one of mankind's most common follies." He glanced at Penny, perhaps giving away his own inner struggle.

"I could contact the Monseigneur of my Order and ask for a place to hide these items. I am certain he would know of a place. It may take the use of telegraph, though."

Penny eavesdropped on the talk of this Nicholas fellow, apparently injured with stakes and something less than human. Perhaps they'd found their killer and spy? She wanted to go see and investigate the creature, to see how well it fitted the crime. But there was more dashed secrecy. Well, hopefully she would be invited in and consulted on the case at some point, and hopefully not before they'd blundered all over the evidence.

As Simon spoke, Penny looked back at him, wondering why he looked to her. Did he think her lustful? Maybe it was her evening dress. 'Yes, him. We've made dinner plans for tomorrow.' she said lightly, finding herself enjoying the chance to shock the priest.

She joined the others in scooping up armfuls of scrolls and pouring them into the sacks, trying not to think of the parchment being crumpled and dogeared, cracked and broken, smeared with fingerprints. 'A bank. It should have a secure vault and guards, and ought to accept valuables deposited for storage. It will do for the short-term.' she suggested, thinking it a practical and efficient solution.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:38, Fri 04 Apr 2014.

Simon was shocked, but not for the reason she thought of. His face suddenly burned with both his own guilt and the blush of being caught. She must know. She must know of his secret thoughts. The thing he so needed to confess but had no opportunity. Yes he felt if now, very poignantly, he wanted her. Not in the friendly sort of way he want to be around her. He felt the thoughts of seeing her naked, of touching her, rising in him.

He turned from her, unable to look at the object of his growing desire. She had done nothing to encourage his thoughts, it was entirely his own sin. She suggested a bank, he only had a small objection. "So you know of one on consecrated ground? I could try and bless the area, but it will likely take a priest of far more skill than I have."

He is now miserable, knowing his own sin and being, at least in the immediate now, unable to stop his thoughts. They were a runaway train. He tried to pray but he could not even concentrate on that.

Penny was entirely oblivious to Simon's inner crisis, and looked blankly at him. 'I've not been in New York long, so no, I do not. But as I said, it need only be a temporary solution, a few days perhaps, until you contact your Monseigneur.'

Kate also joined in helping to fill the sacks. "A bank would probably be a good temporary solution," she chimed in on Penny's idea. "Maybe we could stash them in a couple different banks so they are not all together. That way if there is a break in at least not all of them could be taken at once."

Colin chuckled as everyone tried to find a place for them. Granted it could be difficult to track someplace down that was secure, but he had had a massive advantage when he was in the business. "Ya all are thinkin' too big. Banks keep things safe, and if it is some lust demon, them bank managers will spill the safe for the right price." He placed a bag down by his feet and took to another cigarette with vigor. "I got some boys, the newsies, that can hide'um. No one ever bothers them and where better to hide scrolls than with massive piles of paper? Every good boy will have a stash, plus most of'um canno' read the papers they hock," he finished, along with the cigarette.

'Indeed. Smaller deposits at a number of banks will arouse less suspicion. Provided we are not followed to each one.' Penny agreed with Kate, still shovelling scrolls. It was difficult to believe so demon-summoning scrolls could have been written, and was a sad indictment on the human race that there were so many willing to raise such havoc.

She waved a parchment scroll written in Babylonian cuneiform before Colin's nose. 'This is hardly a rolled-up newspaper, sir. And I doubt the average newspaper boy can read these scratchings either... Regardless, your plan has some merit. They might be concealed beneath other newspapers. Still, they'd need to be guarded and separated, to ensure they do not become mixed up. I'd hate to think of these things being sold on the streets for a penny. Now, that would certainly be a penny dreadful.' Penny pointed out with a wry smile. 'No, I still believe a bank will be the most reliable solution.'

Simon nodded, "Alright then, we choose, what four banks? Each with solid vaults. I'll do what I can to bless them. Then I will go and telegraph my superiors in Boston. Likely it will have to go above them, to Rome, which means at least forty-eight hours, possibly more if a debate ensues. We should try to set up some kid of rotation to check on them, make sure they are still there."

He looked at Colin, "I have to agree with Penny, your idea is a good one, but I am just not comfortable leaving these in the hands of inexperienced youths. What if they are found out? If they died...any of them...it would weigh on all our consciences. No better to leave them in a heavily guarded vault."

He bite his lip then. He had not agreed with Penny because it was Penny, but because it was the best of a bad set of options. He worried, though, that others might see through him. He tried not too, but couldn't help sneaking a glance at her. Then of course chastised himself for it.

Colin formed something nearing a sneer when Penny held the scroll in front of nose. "I'm well aware of tha implications, missy. I think that something as obvious as a bank is where these fella will be a'lookin first. I ain't tha richest man, but I do know other places that be a little less savory, but just as secure." He gestured to the scrolls, then to the surroundings. "These Men of Letters are right respectable. We're goin' ta have ta think outside the laws to hide something this important," he said with a wry smile that mimicked Penny's. "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. I've done things outside the law far too often."

Penny tapped the scroll against her chin in contemplation, not entirely certain of which was the best plan. She liked the solid, respectable security of the bank vault, but the newspaper storage room was a novel, unexpected approach. 'You do make a good point, Mr Browne. Both proposals have their merits and flaws... Ms Piper, Mr Shaw, what do you think?' she asked, inviting her companions' opinions and trying not to dominate matters herself.

Ian frowns, listening to the back and forth with interest. Father Simon, you also see him give you a scrutinizing look and he glances at you often as though you've caught his interest. I will admit, bank vaults do more to protect against humans more than they would against the like that we deal with. All they would have to do is possess a teller and we'd be done for. The more obscure the better. I would be open to Colin's plan, provided we place the scrolls in protected chests. I can have Victoria whip up some protective spells so no one can open them but ourselves and then let the boys guard them. It should keep the average demon or monster out of it too, but if Belial gets his hands on them, well I doubt we could do much about it. He shakes his head.

Kimi: Lily seems relieved that you have agreed to keep Nicholas hidden for now. You sit in the study and she asks him a few questions but he refuses to answer without more assurance of his safety. Fortunately Westbrook and Frederick arrive shortly after and the older man informs you that Frederick has updated him on matters. Once again Nicholas implores for a deal. Westbrook frowns. I could torture out of you anything I wanted to know, but time is too valuable at this point. I will deal with you, creature, but your days will end in captivity here. If I discover you are lying to us, that won't be for long either. He adds darkly. The creature nods vigorously. Fine, fine, that's alright. Just protect me from him! He's mad! He shudders. I-I don't know much. I worked with many of his operatives though and in exchange I was given enough to satiate even my hunger. I don't know Belial's final plans, but I do know that I am not the only monster he has raised. Vampires, shifters, demons, these are only a few of his allies. He swallows hard. Give me some paper and I will write every name I know, though how many of them are real I do not know. Frederick produces the desired objects and the man begins to scribble furiously. Westbrook turns to you. Obviously I'm not done with him by any means, but whatever he is writing will need to be checked as soon as possible. I want him to be kept quiet. No one needs to know what Nicholas really is yet. If too many people learn there is a traitor it will make it difficult to track the others down. Kimi, I want you and Lily to be in charge of finding that traitor as well as checking out the information he is giving us. Use the new recruits for this and keep it quiet. Ian and Victoria will help you as well but I want you to report back to me personally Kimi.

Kate frowned, "are we sure we want to bring newspaper boys into this? After all most of them are just kids." A vision of the Disney musical Newsies flashed through her mind. "I'd hate for any of them to get hurt." She didn't know how they did things in the 1800's but in 2013 you didn't just give kids a bunch of demon scrolls to hide when you knew other demon's would be looking for them.

"Couldn't we bury them or drop them at the bottom of a lake? Or mail them all over the place? Stash them in a protected temple or tomb? I mean you guys are the Men of Letters, you're telling me you don't have any better resources than a bank and some kids? " She wasn't trying to be rude but her dismay was clearly evident. Well maybe there is a reason they aren't around in my time...

Simon interjected, "I would like to say again that as Ms. Piper said, I do not feel it worth the risk to harm children might come to. I am open to any plan that does not risk harm to children."

'Child labour laws and working conditions being what they are, it's not an entirely unreasonable plan.' Penny commented with cynical humour. Sighing, she summarised the facts to arrive at a conclusion. 'We cannot use the standard Men of Letters vaults or hiding places, owing to the fear of a spy in their ranks. But any external hiding place puts innocents at risk. Conventional security lacks the magical warding we require, and an unconventional approach may be unreliable...'

Penny looked around at the cluttered, disused warehouse they were currently waiting in, and realised a simple solution was obvious. 'Why not here? We need only hide the scrolls in another part of the warehouse, somewhere little frequented and overlooked, but still within range of the wards. Say beneath the floorboards of the office or in the roof. Perhaps even in a crate in a neighbouring warehouse. They'd be out of the way yet close at hand if we need them, and Men of Letters could guard them without even realising it. Furthermore, it would be easy for us to check on them as we come and go.'

Simon raised a brow at Penny's attempt at humor. He obviously did not get the joke. "We are actually working on that. There is a movement, among those who fancy protecting animals, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, to extend many of the protections given in the last years to animals along to children as well. Its a small movement to be sure, but if you are interested, I can put you in touch with..." Then he noticed her face and her sigh, "Oh," his face reddened, "Please continue."

Her idea was, in a word, splendid. It would be the last place their enemy would look. It was unexpected and just plain, "Brilliant. Its exactly what our enemy would least expect us to do. He has proven our defenses ill prepared for his incursion and so will expect us to scurry to another place. In fact we might even be able to use this to our advantage."

He set the trunk he carried down and opened it. "We hide the scrolls but then we take the trunks filled with...it doesn't matter it can be stones so long as the weight is right...and then we take them to banks, or even somewhere like a mausoleum. Yes we could put the trunks in one mausoleum, it will be on holy ground, already warded. Then we lie in wait and when the enemy invades we use dynamite... to send them back to hell."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 13:42, Wed 09 Apr 2014.

I doubt dynamite would be enough to destroy demons, but you're on the right track. We could certainly plan something at any rate. He muses. Alright, I am going to get some chests brought up by Victoria. We can trust her at least. Start looking for a good hiding place. He suggests, already striding to the telephone.

ooc: Feel free to roll a search to see if you can find the best location to hide the scrolls, provided that is the route you all agree on. Also, let me know when you're ready to start wrapping up here and what your plans are for the rest of the night so I can progress the story.

As Simon stared at her again, Penny looked quickly away, feeling faintly uncomfortable. She didn't like to maintain eye contact for long, finding it overly familiar and wondering if one party was expected to say something. Perhaps the priest was ill, addled by the blow to the head he'd suffered. Yes, that was probably it. He did look a fright.

'Yes, and I know just what we can cover the stones with:' Penny pulled from her tool bag a bundle of National Woman Suffrage Association pamphlets, originally intended for distribution among the guests of the Bentlys' banquet. 'Let them try to summon the spirit of Susan B. Anthony!'

Before Ian left, she inquired 'What do we need chests for? We can use the crates the scrolls arrived in, and leave the scrolls in these leather bags. They should be sufficiently waterproof, and can be more easily stashed in some cranny.'

She moved off into the warehouse, tapping things with her cane, looking under things and behind things, with as much discretion as one could, and generally inspecting every part of the main store and each adjoining room with the practiced eye of one used to ferreting out hidden things and the most minute details. She examined the attic spaces, reached through ceiling panels or roof tiles; under the floorboards, given the effort of prising them up; under drawers in cabinets and desks; and within other crates, barrels, and machinery still within the warehouse. She had to consider the great volume of scrolls to be hidden; the ease of access to store them, retrieve them, and check on them; and the ability to conceal signs of their passage and efforts. Penny applied a simple rule: if she could herself, on a good day, search out the scrolls, then it simply wasn't good enough. And she would hide all trace of her passing afterwards.


OOC: Search 27
19:03, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 27 using 1d20+10. search.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 12:56, Tue 15 Apr 2014.

Colin thouroghly wracked his brain for some way to hide the scrolls. He sat on the closest crate and rubbed at his temples.


OOC: Take 20 Search. 22 Total.

The chests are warded so that only we can open them. He explains. We should use the crates as decoys though for certain. He adds. As you look for the perfect place to hide the scrolls you are able to narrow it down to a few places. Firstly, a loose panel in the wall on one of the upper levels, then a crawlspace in the attic that had been boarded up, and lastly inside a barrel of nuts and bolts that had been stored amongst the old abandoned equipment of the warehouse. Considering it was the bottom barrel on a stack some dozen or so high, it seemed a fitting place, though re-stacking it and refilling it with the nuts and bolts will prove to be a pain. By now Victoria has arrived with the chests, each small but large enough to hold several scrolls. She greets you each soberly and assures you that no one saw her with the chests. She turns to Kate and Penny in particular. He has you both marked for some reason. I don't know why but you are important to him. Be wary. She says mysteriously, yet you both know she is referring to Belial and she obviously expects you to understand her meaning.

ooc: Gonna wrap it up soon here so let me know your plans for the rest of the night.

Kimi nodded once, she wasn't sure how she would check these names but she would approach the other two members, and see what they had to say.  She looked to Lily and nodded once as well.  They knew the tailor and his wife had something going on.  "What do you know of the Tailor and his wife? What is their place in this creature?"

After looking around and finding the best hiding places, they began to put the precious scrolls into the best places they could find. When they were done, he turned to the others, "I really think we have an opportunity here to use this to our advantage. What do you all think of my idea. The dynamite was just an option..." He says with a nod to Ian, "...we should move on this quickly if we plan on doing it, I think."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:27, Mon 14 Apr 2014.

An old chill came back over Penny as Victoria reminded her of Belial. 'Always.' she replied coolly. She could imagine a number of base reasons for the loathsome demon to fixate on two young women, but it was clear the Prince of Darkness had some special cruelty in mind.

Penny marvelled at the enchanted chests that opened only for certain people, but asked for a list of all those they opened for, just to be sure. She sorted the scrolls into each, and advised dividing the chests up amongst all the best hiding places they'd found, reasoning that even if one or two were discovered, the enemy couldn't recover all the scrolls. As for the barrel, she had the men scoop out the nuts and bolts to weigh down the empty crates, and loaded in a scroll-filled chest. The barrel didn't have to sit at the bottom of the stack; second from the top was sufficient.

For the decoy crates, she took out her bundles of NWSA pamphlets, unfolded them, then rolled them to mimic scrolls, finally wiping them on greasy, rusty, dusty, or otherwise filthy surfaces around the warehouse to age and crumple them. A crude forgery, but it should pass a cursory glance at night. They stacked these over the nuts and bolts.

'I doubt we have time to collect dynamite tonight.' she answered Simon, finding herself growing tired after the late, busy, and stressful evening. 'And I didn't expect a man of the cloth to be in favour of obliterating a graveyard... Regardless, it would slay the hosts but only release the demons to possess new hosts. It would slow them down for a time, but consign more innocents to their torment. We must be judicious about where and when we slay them... Let's place these crates over a devil's trap as a decoy.'

After they were finished working at the warehouse, Penny asked for an update on the captured monster, Nicholas, and what had been learned. She still wanted to unravelled the murder mystery; even if the killer had been caught, there was still the matter of how and why, and why it had chosen such a risky hiding place for its kills.

Afterward, she called a cab to take Kate and herself back to the hotel. There she ordered a late supper (they'd barely gotten through the entrée at the banquet) and a hot bath for each of them.


OOC: 21:08, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 16 using 1d20+5. forgery.

Simon nodded to Penny's suggestion. "I cannot make them myself, Devil's Traps I mean, but I am sure someone here can."

He assisted with the work, making himself useful. When it was all done he too retired, but decided to stay where they were for the evening. Someone had to be here to guard things. He appointed himself. It would hopefully keep his mind off his "trouble."

Colin spoke up on the mention of a devil's trap, his attention being elsewhere while looking for a hiding place. He strode over to the priest, a wry grin painting his face. "I know how ta do it. Another priest showed me how in my early Hunting days. Knowing the holy language helps a mighty bit as well."

'I also know how to fashion and conceal a devil's trap, in several ways. Indeed,' Penny produced a small square of cloth and displayed the design stitched into it. It was, yes, a neatly cross-stitched sampler of a pentagram devil's trap. 'Even needlework.'

He nodded to Collin and was about to speak when once again Penny rendered him speechless. It seemed everything she did was amazing. He did manage to say "Impressive." as he nodded and gawked like a teenager.

Kate watched her new companions with interest especially Father Simon. The good father was obviously uncomfortable around Penny and she couldn't help smiling in amusement as Penny seemed oblivious to the fact. Could it be Father Simon was developing a crush? "I can also make a trap," she added though her skills were obviously not needed at the moment.

Once the evening had wrapped up and she was alone with Penny in the cab she casually asked, "So what do you think of Father Simon?"

Kimi: Nicholas answers easily, explaining that the tailor and his wife were henchmen for Belial. The wife in particular is a high ranking minion for the man. He explains. I've only met her a couple of times but I have a feeling she has her own plans for the Hand. He gives a shudder.

Everyone else: Between those of you who are skilled in devil's traps, the work goes rather quickly. Father Simon is left to guard the crates and Victoria suggests that Colin follow her to the infirmary so that he can be cleaned up a bit more. You also get the impression she has more to say to the Irishman in private.

Kate/Penny: pm

Father Simon: After everyone leaves you see that Ian has stuck around. He gives you a scrutinizing look. It could be a long night. Do you need anything? You get the feeling that there is more he wants to say but is holding back.

Simon shrugged, "A pillow and blankets, perhaps. Unnecessary luxuries but it would be nice all the same."

Colin follows Victoria as requested, wondering what exactly a Men of Letters infirmary looks like.

Father Simon: Ian gives a nod. Of course. He says agreeably. I'll have some sent up. He turns to go and then pauses, turning around. Forgive my nosiness Father, but you seem a bit...distracted as of late. Is everything alright? The look he gives you implies he means more than he has just let on.

Colin: The infirmary is filled with beds, sterile looking tables and equipment and several nurses, all bustling around the many wounded who are still being tended. The room she takes you to is nearby and it consists of a private cot and a desk with similar equipment. Victoria explains this is for patients who require more privacy in their treatment. She then continues to speak to you on the matter she has addressed.

Simon gave Ian a bit of a scowl, just a bit. Does he know? Why would he ask if he knew? "Distracted? I suppose I am. Its nothing you need concern yourself with...a private matter."

Ian looks amused, in a good-natured sort of way. Sure thing Father. I'll have your things sent up to you. He nods, and heads off down the ladder. Before long a woman indeed does bring you your items as requested.

ooc: Anything in particular Simon's going to do the rest of the night, or just stand guard etc? If you plan to stay awake go ahead and make a general fortitude save to see if you can stave off sleep.

Simon is a light sleeper. He dies not force wakefulness, but he does read his bible by lamplight. He focuses on the portions dealing with forgiveness and his own harbored sin.

Colin continued on with the conversation.

Colin: pm

ooc: Ok everyone, I'm moving things along now! If you are still having a conversation in the other thread, continue it by all means, but you may also move along in this thread too.

When asked about the "demon/monster" that Kimi and Lily were in pursuit of, you are all informed that there may have been a break in the case but that Westbrook is looking into it first. You will have a full report by morning as well as a chance to investigate yourself at that time. Colin, if you wish you are offered permanent quarters with the Men, though you are free to leave anytime you wish. Father Simon, you are able to get a bit of sleep but what little you do is haunted by strange dreams of demons and hellfire. Not restful to say the least.

Kate/Penny: As you leave the hotel and prepare to rendezvous at headquarters you notice a black clad woman watching you with a frown. She quickly looks away when she sees you notice her. Should you try to continue she will follow discreetly...

Father Simon: Ian relieves you in the morning, bringing up coffee and bread and porridge. Sleep well? He grins. You won't have to do that again tonight. I will have other arrangements made. He informs you. Tell me Father, any thoughts on Belial? If Penny means to keep her meeting with him tonight we'd best start planning.

Colin: You are the first to make it to the conference room appointed the previous night. It seems you are early or your companions are late, or some combination. Lily is already there as well, cleaning her revolver. She looks up at you with a nod and then goes back to her work. ooc: roll a sense motive please Colin ;)

Simon sat up when Ian entered the room. He slept better than one might have expected, being used to less than adequate sleeping arrangements. In the light of the morning, Penny seemed more distant and less pressing.



He nodded to Ian, "Yes. I am used to sleeping under such circumstances."



He shrugged, "Its no bother really. I like helping and if this keeps others from a bad night, then I can be the guard."



And that was the end of Simon's reprieve. At the mere mention of her name he blanched and his eyes went down. He feigned thinking it over...and then he was able to think it over. "Belial is an elder member of Satan's powerbase. A general in our terms. He is the Lord of Lust, and corrupts mankind with sins of the flesh. Succubae are his main soldiers, but Incubae seduce women as well and are under his control. I believe Penny is blind to any danger. She is so keen on proving women equal to men that she will take terrible risks. Perhaps if you cautioned her, she dismisses any advice I give out right, or argues with it as if it is an attack on her." He sighed heavily. His one ray of light was that it seemed Penny thought very little of him and so there was no opportunity for her to return his feelings and thus no way to corrupt her. So long as her soul remained safe, he could accept the burden of a thorn in his flesh.

He went on, "If she cannot be dissuaded, and I am fairly certain that is impossible, then we must take every possible precaution. We must, in my opinion, be there physically, even if it means hiding. I...we cannot chance loosing her. She is to important to...to the defeat of these monsters."

He bade Ian accompany his to the meeting place for breakfast. He could not remember when he had actually eaten last.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:35, Tue 22 Apr 2014.

She lay in a dark alley, cobblestones and straw beneath her back, the smell of filth and blood in her nose. She could hear the clatter of hooves and the murmur of passers-by, only just around the corner. She tried to call for help but only gurgled, more blood welling up the gash through her neck. Glancing down, she saw herself laid open, all her insides and her secrets bare to the world. And the Ripper was there, cold dead eyes, uncaring of her. He was crouched over her like a fiend, pulling her apart, rummaging through her. What was he looking for? And below, her legs— her legs were gone, just bloody stumps cut off at the thigh—

Penny awoke with a start, in a cold sweat and panting with night terrors. She scrambled through her sheets, desperately pulling them up and getting frightfully tangled. At last, she felt her legs, whole and healthy. It wasn't until she got the gas lamp on that she could reassure herself there were still no signs of withering. Penny sat up, tried to calm herself. That was a new addition to the Ripper dreams; her encounter with Belial and Mrs Bently's spell had clearly disturbed her greatly. I will get through this. she told herself. The nightmares will pass. They have to. That was the real reason she'd left England, not some inflated fears of reprisals or conspiracies, but to get away from all that was familiar and terrible in London.

*

Following their conversation of the night before, and given that the day was expected to be given over to quiet investigation and study conducted at the Men of Letters base, itself not entirely safe, Penny had a wild idea to share with Kate: pants. In truth, Penny wanted to be reassured she still had legs, and damn what others thought.

Thus she dressed up in boots, trousers, men's shirt, and a long coat, with her hair braided and tucked up under a hard bowler hat, and carried her cane, for all the world like a young English gentlemen. She lent Kate her spares, older versions of what she'd arrived in that would blend in better with the age. Penny explained that society was entirely used to seeing women in a very specific dress code, so without any of the typical signifiers like a skirt or long hair, it was easy for them to pass as young, slight, clean-shaven men. They wore men's clothes, thus they had to be men. They just had to speak with deeper voices. Of course, those who knew them would be surprised. Penny was almost looking forward to it with some degree of relish.

Stepping out of the hotel, Penny's observant eyes noticed the woman in black watching, noted her frown. Was she simply a passer-by who'd seen through their disguise, as women could? But, as they walked off in search of a cab, a surreptitious glance back showed the woman definitely following. 'Don't look now, but I do believe we are being followed.' Penny whispered to Kate, then gazed casually around the environs to see if there was anyone else taking an interest.


OOC: Can I try a Sherlock Scan on the black-clad woman? Investigate 31, Sense Motive 20, Spot 12
10:04, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 31,20,12 using d20+13,d20+7,d20+9. scan: investigate, sense motive, spot.

Find Clues: auto-Search for clues: Search 12
10:06, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 12 using 1d20+10. search.

Anyone else around? Spot 17
10:07, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 17 using 1d20+9. spot. (I messed up the modifier in the roller.)
This message was last edited by the player at 02:13, Wed 23 Apr 2014.

Father Simon: Ian assures you that there are plenty others to help with the shifts, though you may be called upon again in the future. Yes, I agree we should be there tonight. Belial will expect it I'm sure but that doesn't change anything. I suggest we bring it up with her though. If we try to be sneaky about it she may spot us and give us what for. He shakes his head. As for succubi, well I guess we'd better avoid any pretty young ladies that come our way, just in case right? He gives a wink and a laugh, obviously joking and seemingly oblivious to how close his joke has come to the truth. He starts to lead you down to the meeting area, chatting as he does so. The others aren't all here yet. Colin should be about somewhere, but the ladies are taking their time it seems. He shrugs. As you walk through the corridors you see Westbrook and Victoria in the distance, talking heatedly about something. She looks furious.

Penny: You can't tell much at your distance, other than that she is of middle class, impeccably dressed, and is about thirty years old. She appears to be studying you uncertainly, but there is no doubt that you have her interest.

Before they went too far Simon caught Ian by the wrist and turned him to look at him. "I am certain you must have figured out by now, something isn't right with me. Your not a priest so I cannot confess to you. Suffice it to say that it is far better if I avoid extended conversation with Penny, for her sake and my own. I would ask you, if you care for her, then be the one who speaks to her. I will agree with you." He released the other man's arm. "I trust you, I sensed intuitively that you were not behind the murders. I defended you. Now I ask you to do me a favor in turn. Intercede with her. If you are attracted to her, pursue her. I believe she might be receptive. Do not do so, though, if you intend to sully her."

He sighed again, "Whatever happens, I trust you to act in her best interests. I cannot trust myself to do the same."

He turned and walked with Ian again. He saw the heated discussion going on, and as was his way, he interceded. "Whatever the cause of this quarrel, I am sure it can be remedied. If you need an intermediary, please you have only to ask."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:36, Wed 23 Apr 2014.

Kimi was glad to hear that the situation was related.  This meant that Ian was in the clear.  She suddenly realized that from the beginning she'd had suspicions about Nicholas.  She should learn to trust her instincts more.

In reply to Artemis (msg # 87):

Colin returned the nod to Lily and took a seat at the table. He glanced around in idle, time consuming boredom before striking up a conversation. "I aim ta guess tha others are enjoying a meal of tha highest quality. Tha father and tha Brit seem ta have a taste for tha finer things. Give me a good bowl of warm porridge and I'd be happy," he said with a chuckle. It was inane banter, but what else was he to do?

'The woman in the black dress, about thirty years old, behind and to the left. Look now, but quickly.' Penny advised Kate in a low, urgent voice as they negotiated the busy New York streets. She considered the facts: a black dress of modern fashion, likely upper-middle class, thirty years old — a trifle young but otherwise fitting the description of one of Mrs Bently's coven of bored and aspirational house-wives to a T. Oh, why couldn't they have done something useful and gone into the suffrage movement instead of witchcraft? Penny tried to recall if she'd seen the woman at the banquet last night, whether at the table or elsewhere in the room. However, she had been rather focused on other matters.

'Possibly a witch. Let us turn and go back to the hotel as if we've forgotten something. If she turns, we shall be sure. If she keeps her nerve, we may pass her and get a better look. Don't make eye contact.' Then Penny stopped suddenly, reacted in surprise, and said a little louder 'Ah, the papers.' Patting Kate on the arm and turning about, she started back the way they'd come, walking toward the woman in the black dress. Penny kept her gaze unfocused and slightly to the right, as if she had no notice of their pursuer.


OOC: Has Penny seen her before? I don't know what to roll, but Wisdom 4, ugh.
17:04, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 4 using 1d20+1. wisdom?

Acting casual: Bluff 18
17:12, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 18 using 1d20+1. bluff.

Father Simon: Ian listens to your emotional speech with a sympathetic face. Listen Father, you are right, I did sense you were struggling with such...things. If you ask me it's a bit much to ask a young man such as yourself to cut off such human emotions. I could never do what you do. He shakes his head. I will help you as much as I can. If you need anything you've but to ask. As for Penny, I will admit an attraction to her, but I also find Kate to be quite appealing and to be honest, I don't know either one well enough to pretend to be in love with them. I'm an awful flirt but I assure you I will not sully either one. He says with a grin. And thanks by the way Father, for your support during that whole Nicholas chaos. You've got good instincts, you should trust them.

When you approach the pair, they stop their conversation immediately, and Victoria clamps her mouth shut quickly, though her eyes are still furious. It is Westbrook who speaks. Ah, thank you good Father. We appreciate your offer, but I assure you it is nothing serious. He says with a small smile. Just a minor dispute is all. ooc: If you like you may sense motive for more info

"I see her," Kate whispered after a quick look. Casually she turned with Penny to head back to the hotel. Her normal instinct would have been to corner the woman in black and see why they were being followed, but she chose to play casual for Penny's sake.

Bluff if needed: 11 (4+7)

OOC: Oh gosh I totally forgot to post in this thread. Having to much fun with the girl talk I guess :D

Penny/Kate: Penny, you do not recognize the woman and when you walk past her she is unflinching. After you pass though, should you look back you do see her start to scurry down the street and turn a corner, running as fast as she can...


Kimi: pm

Simon continued the conversation with Ian for a moment longer, "Listen, Ian, this is important. The vow of celibacy is not meant to make one cut off emotion. On the contrary we are expected to feel such things. We are expected to depend on God for relief from the more miserable aspects. This is why the sacrifice brings us closer to God. Secondly we are meant to care for all mankind equally, not devote ourselves to one person only, as one does in marriage. This is why men are called to the Priesthood, because of the difficulty. For a woman, giving up sexuality and caring for all others would be very easy, natural even. A woman would need God very little, if at all, whereas a man must by his very nature depend on God for this. I am sorry I am sure I've bored you terribly."

12:15, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 25 using 1d20+11. sense motive.

To Victoria and Westbrook, "I see." Though he looked on with a critical eye.

The Indian woman listens and gives a smile, transforming her face momentarily into one of astounding beauty, though she is certainly pretty when she isn't smiling anyway. Ha! Porridge! You haven't lived until you've had to hunt your own breakfast. She seems amused. Nothing quite like getting up at the crack of dawn to check snares and gut rabbits. She pauses, suddenly thinking of what she's said. That wasn't disturbing was it? I've been told I can be a bit...blunt. She gives a slight shrug. Truthfully I'm much better at killing demons than I am at social niceties. I tried to be a part of society once and it didn't quite work out for me. She shakes her head. She pauses again, What about you? You don't look as snobby as some of the other recruits. I mean that in the best of ways. She adds.

No, I assure you, I'm not bored. Clearly you feel very strongly about it and I'm glad for you. I admire what you are doing for humanity. Perhaps when you are feeling...troubled, you can remember exactly what you just told me and remind yourself the reasons you are doing this in the first place. He offers helpfully.

In the meantime, you get the feeling that the pair are both being secretive but Victoria is clearly the one who is incensed and Westbrook is merely on the defensive. He must be the offender in this case and whatever he did, she is not happy with him. You wonder if she would be more forthright about the matter in private.

Simon lifts a brow. Perhaps he had stumbled into a lover's spat? Otherwise he does not show outwardly what he suspected. "Very well. Victoria, I require your assistance. Since Penny and Kate have not arrived, perhaps now is a good time for a private chat regarding them both?"

'Ha! The game is afoot!' Penny said, excited by the thrill of the chase, and immediately began trotting off after the woman. 'Keep your pistol handy and take care, this may yet be a trap.' she warned Kate, as she checked her pocket pistol in, of course, her pocket.

As they ran after the woman in black, Penny looked for a side-street or alley which she could hurry down and attempt to cut off the woman.


OOC: Attempting to intercept the woman by running down a side-street: Dexterity check 13, Knowledge (Streetwise) 24
08:59, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 13 using 1d20+2. dexterity.
08:57, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 24 using 1d20+6. Knowledge (Streetwise).

Kate followed after Penny muttering something about wishing they'd just tackled the woman in the first place. If Penny takes a side street Kate will continue to follow the fleeing woman in the hopes she keep her from doubling back. Her pepper spray was ready in one hand and her handgun would be easy to pull out of her pocket.

Father Simon: Westbrook pauses a moment but gives an approving nod to Victoria that he is done with her for the moment. She scowls back at him but says nothing. Ian watches the scene with a trace of discomfort. Do I even want to know Victoria? He mutters drily. She gives him a frown and shakes her head. Patting her shoulder encouragingly, Ian makes himself scarce, telling you that he will see you at the meeting. Victoria turns to you then, trying to visibly calm herself. What is it Father? Do you have concerns regarding them that I should be made aware of?

Kate/Penny: ooc: You guys sure are lucky I have bad dice roller luck! ;P

Penny is successful in choosing a correct side street and is able to cut the woman off. Kate catches up quickly behind as the woman sees you and suddenly trips over her skirts, stumbling to the ground. Swearing savagely, she rises again but by then you have caught up to her. I suggest you let me pass. She pants angrily...

ooc: If you are thinking of stopping her I suggest initiatives please! :D

Simon smiled, making sure the other woman was comfortable in his presence. "Not so much about them, but for them. I understand that they are to have some kind of meeting with...an elder member of Satan's staff this evening. I was hoping you might have some means of protecting them from harm. I worry for their safety."
This message was last updated by the player at 16:09, Fri 25 Apr 2014.

Directing Kate to stay on the woman's heels, Penny dashed down a side-street then turned back, correctly finding the woman had doubled back back. She cut her off and Kate blocked her retreat as the woman tripped on her skirts. 'You're right, it is easier without skirts!' Penny called to Kate.

She reached in her pocket and drew her pistol, demanding 'Tell us why you were following us.' Recalling Kate's earlier muttered complaints, Penny looked to her to see if she had any suggestions on how to handle this.


OOC: Initiative 3
08:37, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 3 using 1d20+2. initiative.

Wait, where are we? An alley, an open street, are there people around watching?
This message was last edited by the player at 01:31, Sat 26 Apr 2014.

This probably wasn't the best place for a shoot out so Kate waits for an opening before lunging forward in an attempt to restrain the woman from behind.

Init 5
grapple 9
Poop!

In reply to Lily (msg # 99):

Colin gave a grin at the mentioned snobbish types in the group. He shook his head and replied in a very lazy tone. "I guess you coulda say I got me skills homegrown. Came here when I was a lad and fell in love with American debauchery. What can I say, lass? I'm right into the money."

He knew it was a poor lie, but he wasn't quite sure about her manner and the way she spoke. She didn't give any indication that she was a monster, nor was she a liar, nor was she even deceptive. If anything, she was the most honest one so far. In fact, Colin had no idea why he was trying to play her. He settled on boredom and second nature scoundrel.

OOC:
15:32, Today: Colin Browne rolled 10 using 1d20+1. Bluff.

Father Simon: Victoria listens and suddenly breaks into an unexpected smile, looking extremely amused. I'm afraid it's not quite what you think good Father. She laughs. You see, John was romantically involved with my mother. He's not my actual father, but he has certainly taken a similar role in my life. He was a Union soldier during the civil war and he met my mother then. I was very young at the time but he fell in love with her. She died a few years later and he took me in. She explains. As for our disagreements, you are right, we don't always see eye to eye. This particular spat is over a...slight disagreement as to how he is handling certain things...I still trust him like a father, but that doesn't mean I have to like what he does sometimes. If you really want to know, the dispute is over Nicholas. We have different ideas of what should happen with him, though I would appreciate if you kept this private as you've mentioned. As for Penny and Kate, I am definitely working on something for them, I can't say how affective it will be, but I honestly don't think he means to harm them tonight at least. She shakes her head.

Penny/Kate: You are in an alley at the moment with a fair degree of privacy, though you're sure that shots will bring about the attention of onlookers. Should Kate make any attempt to grapple, she will break your grip easily, though she would hardly look surprised at the attempt.

 The woman smiles at the threat, looking unconcerned. Her eyes turn black....Are you really going to shoot a woman in broad daylight? Need I remind you that you are dressed as men at the moment? By the time anyone realizes what you really are you'll already be stopped. Men are always ready to risk their lives for a woman in need. She laughs. Though I'll admit your wretched skirts are hard to get used to. She adds irritably. My master likes to keep tabs on his pets. That is all you need know. If you really want answers I suggest you ask him tonight. Her smile looks mocking and wicked.

Colin: I see. She says with an arched eyebrow. Clearly she has seen through your lie but says nothing more of it, instead you get the impression she is a bit disappointed in you, though it is a fiery kind rather than sad. This is a woman who is feisty and if you choose not to be honest with her, it clearly isn't going to break her heart. Ian arrives a moment later with a grin. Ah! Top of the morning to ya as they say! He laughs amiably. I see you've met Lily! Beware of that one, she'll eat you alive if you cross her. He continues with a wink. She smiles back, amused. Oh Ian, if Richard survived me I'm sure he has nothing to worry about. She notes smoothly. Ian sits down on a chair, leaning back comfortably. Well, everyone else sure is taking their time! We may as well get started a bit eh? Tell me Colin, anything on the streets I should know about? We have quite a mess to track down and I'm sure some of it has bled into your territory.

Simon smiled along with her. "Well, unlike a woman my intuition is wrong on occasion." Then he nodded along with her comments about the meeting with Kate and Penny had that evening. "Alright, Victoria, but I ask you to remember. This demon lord is the Master of lust. He may not intend them physical harm, but instead to lead them into some debauchery that will harm instead their souls. Be on guard, always, so that our hearts be fortresses against Satan's lies."

He was perhaps lecturing himself. He realized this and looked down more than at Victoria. "I trust you, you knew Ian was innocent from the beginning. Your intuition is excellent, trust it." He felt odd and realized just how long it had been since he had eaten. He shook of the sudden bout of dizziness and invited Victoria to eat with them, "Perhaps I might entice you to dine? Fear not, everything you have said will be held in the strictest of confidences."

Penny gave the demon her own dark look, though her blue eyes hardly changed colour. 'A woman? I doubt it. You're not even human.' she returned scornfully, but returned her gun to her coat pocket, half-praising and half-cursing her lark of wearing men's clothes and leaving her umbrella behind. She still had her weighted cane handy, but doubted she could get to the fiend and strike it down before it could scream for help. Still, she'd like to try.

She didn't like the reminder of dinner with the Prince of Darkness, and loathed the very idea of it. It was sure to be a trap, the café a nest of demons. If not, then it would be an unpleasant experience throughout. Despite what some feared at that very moment, she had absolutely no desire to go through with this. If she was forced to meet with Belial, then she'd rather make it on her own terms. 'Regrettably, your master left before we could confirm our appointment. Please inform him that I am unable to attend.' Standing the fellow up had a certain satisfaction, but it would likely anger him needlessly, and Penny was far too polite for it. 'If he still wishes to discuss "business", then you may leave a note and contact details at the hotel — I trust you know which one — and we shall get back to him.'

'And you can tell the Worthless One that we are no-one's pets, least of all his.' she added in indignation.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:12, Wed 30 Apr 2014.

Father Simon: Victoria laughs at your words on intuition but gives a nod at your warning. Wise words Father. I suggest you keep on guard yourself. Belial takes perverted delight in tempting holy men and women. He's rather fond of tempting nuns and the like. Of course, you seem like a strong man. I'm sure you'll be fine. She adds, patting your arm. Yes, I could do with some food myself, they should have some in the meeting room. Shall we? She leads you towards the direction Ian has gone.

Penny/Kate: The woman looks shocked. You would dare deny him? She looks genuinely surprised, as though the idea of disobeying such a person is inconceivable. Clearly the man demands strict obedience from his followers. She recovers quickly. Very well, have it your own way. You can expect his card soon human. You would be wise to change your tone though. Being brave will only get you killed that much quicker. She looks at you with disdain and leaves as long as no one has anything further to say...

ooc: Go ahead and finish up here and I'll join you with the others.

Simon felt again as though he were laid bare, though he kept a smile on for fear that she may not actually know his terrible sin. He politely opened the door for her and went into the adjoining room. The smell was delightful and made his realize how long it had been since he had eaten. "Mmmm." He said and asked Lily and Colin, "Where did you get that, it smells wonderful."

Colin rubbed his chin for a moment in thinking before answering with a nod. "Ya can say that the spooks and uglies have been out in force as of late. Some of the street boys and newsies tell me of queer things in the shadows and other places of little light. Been trying to reach some of my other contacts, but they seem to have disappeared from the streets. Either they are in hiding or something has happened to them before they could get there. Do ya know something I don't?"

Kate watched the woman leave with a frown. "If we are being watched we should probably be very careful," she suggested. "I'd hate to bring any unwanted visitors to the Men of Letters." She brushed her hair out of her face. "So you aren't going to keep your dinner date? What is he not your type?" she grinned sarcastically. Really it was probably for the best since Belial seemed to have the advantage for the moment.

'Of course I dare, and you should too.' Penny retorted, taking any opportunity to drive a wedge between the demons. 'Good day to you.' Penny touched the brim of her bowler hat as the demon scuttled away without farewell. Because there was no reason to abandon manners, even to a demon, though her gesture treated the demon as the inferior it was. They really were most uncivil creatures.

'We shall have to change our lodgings now as well. Perhaps move into the Men of Letters compound as the others have done. And I was so enjoying the New York Hotel too.' Penny sighed, adopting a cool air to hide her annoyance and anxiety at this development. At least she'd managed to delay her meeting with Belial; he seemed the sort to play along, at least.

She looked curiously at Kate's query, responding with a small, tight smile. 'My "type"? No, I suppose he is not... Well, Father always wanted me to marry highly. I'm not sure a prince of Hell is exactly what he had in mind, but he'd probably approve. That's reason enough to refuse to be courted.'


OOC: Done here, I think.

Penny/Kate: You head towards the warehouse, keeping to more obscure paths and making sure not to be followed. You appear to be in the clear and soon you make your way to the meeting room with the others, who are already in conversation. There is food laid out on a side table if you wish it.

Everyone: Lily smiles at Father Simon's question and directs him to a table with food laid out. It looks to be very high quality and ranges from simple porridge to more fanciful dishes such as eggs Benedict, scones, and other such breakfast staples. Colin and Ian are already in the middle of a conversation when Kate and Penny enter, dressed in men's clothes of all things! Ian gives a grin of amusement but answers Colin with a note of soberness. I don't know more than whispers and rumors myself. But there have been reports of increased...activity throughout the city. We think that the Hand may be gathering for something important. I suspect they have gathered their major members here for a reason. It could just be a meeting or it could be something more nefarious. He sighs. By now Victoria has joined you as well and everyone is gathered together around a large, long table. The only one not there is Westbrook himself, though Victoria mentions he's attending to business. You also see there is a flicker of anger in her eyes at mention of him. She turns to Penny abruptly. Well? What are you going to do tonight? We need to start planning if you are going to face Belial, though honestly I don't know how good of an idea it is... She trails off doubtfully. Kate, when Lily sees you she gives you a grin and a nod of greeting. She looks at you and Penny, both dressed in men's attire, and gives you an approving nod. You notice she is wearing buckskin breeches herself so no doubt she finds you kindred spirits.

Simon choose a simple bowl of porridge, though he indulged with a few pieced of fruit he could stir in. He sat but then stood again as Penny and Kate entered. Despite their dress, he knew them to be ladies and practiced his manners. He assumed they were hoping to throw off common foes by disguise. He knew Holmes to use such tactics himself. Simon had heard that Holmes had even dressed as a woman on several occasions. Simon did his best to ignore Penny without seeming to ignore her, which just came across as him trying not to invade her space or be overtly needy. He did not comment on Victoria's assertions, hoping that his silence might convince Penny not to go and meet with one of Hell's Generals. Instead he prayed over his food and ate it in silence.

Given their encounter with the demon, Penny and Kate had chosen to walk rather than take a cab. It concealed their route to the Men of Letters base, but had made them rather late. 'Good morning, everyone.' Penny greeted as they stepped in, returning a small smile to the Indian woman, Lily. She doffed her bowler hat and let her braid spill out. The men's suit was baggy enough to conceal a feminine build, but she certainly made a dapper woman.

'Tonight, I shall do nothing. I have called off the meeting with Belial, especially since I'd hardly made it in the first place.' she answered airily, feeling a terrible weight lifted from her shoulders. At the others' curious looks, she explained 'Kate and I had the dubious fortune of meeting one of his black-eyed minions on the way here, following us with poor discretion — hence our lateness. I took the opportunity to cancel tonight's appointment, made arrangements for communication, and sent the demon scurrying away with a flea in its ear... Oh, Belial will still wish to meet, but now it shall be at a time and place and in a situation of our choosing. We have more time to prepare.'
This message was lightly edited by the player at 14:08, Wed 30 Apr 2014.

Simon extremely relieved to hear Penny say she would not be going to a meeting called by Belial. Try as he might he cannot hide his relief, though he says nothing and continues to eat his chosen repast.

Kate helped herself to some of the food and found a comfortable spot to sit down. She returned Lily's smile with one of her own.

Victoria listens to Penny's words with an approving nod. I'm glad to hear it. We should make plans for how you want to approach him later. In the meantime, I trust you are all aware of Nicholas and his capture? He has informed us that he is not the only spy in our midst but he doesn't know the identity of his comrade. We need to take care with who is watching and listening. Trust no one but each other and even then, keep an eye in case anyone has been compromised. I do not mean to be paranoid but I fear we have no other option. At least I'm hoping with Nicholas captured we should find fewer bodies hidden in the walls... She adds drily. We're still working on deciphering the notes taken from the Bentley's home. We're hoping that we can glean something from it that will be of use to us. In the meantime, Nicholas has given us a list of names of Hand members. I suggest we start hunting those down as soon as possible. Once they find out he's been compromised, it will be very difficult to find any of them I should think. We'll move out once we're finished here. She informs you. Then she turns to Kate with a small smile. Also Miss Kate, I wanted to inform you that we've found a way to get you home. I don't want you to think you haven't been welcome here or that you haven't been a great help to us, but I think it would be best if you went home after breakfast. I feel it in my bones that there is something important for you there and as much as I would like you to stay I know that is what fate wants for you right now. I am sorry if this upsets you, but I know your time needs you, why or how I do not know but that is the truth of it. She finishes firmly.

Kate was surprised at how disappointed she was at the prospect of returning home again so soon. Not that she didn't want to go. But knowing she would not be there to help her new friends left her feeling a little regretful. It was probably for the best, after all who knew how badly she was mucking up the timeline by staying and helping. And if Belial knew who and when she came from maybe it would be better for her to return to her own time. "I'm good to go," she said simply though it was clear she was a little torn.

Penny was turning over the brief summary from Victoria and listed all they'd need to do. One, to research Belial, his history, motives and weaknesses. Two, question Nicholas, identify what type of creature he was, find the reasons for his murders and his questionable choice of hiding place. Three, conduct a investigation to find this other spy, if indeed there was one. And now, four, Victoria wanted them to seek out other Hand members, as if they didn't have enough stirred up like wasps. They were always too busy, and there hardly seemed enough hours in the day.

Then she was surprised to hear that Victoria had a means for Kate to return to her own time. 'Already?' Penny squeaked in dismay. 'I mean, I didn't expect you to find and organise such a powerful spell working so soon. Is it safe?' In truth, she was sad to hear Kate would be leaving. They'd become close friends in their short time together, or rather, Penny thought they were friends. She'd not had many real friends in her busy, unusual life. Kate had made her feel normal, or rather, the normal of a wonderful future. 'I— should like to examine this magic, and— and to see Miss Piper off.'

Of course. Victoria nods kindly at Penny's request. As long as Miss Kate doesn't mind. Yes, we are extremely equipped here. We have some of the best members the world has to offer and they know their spells. She informs you proudly. Well, if you are almost finished, preparations are already underway for Kate's departure. We'll see her off and then I think we should get started on our leads first and foremost. The most promising one is a man by the name of Christopher Williams. He is a lawyer up on Main street. I suggest you go together, he is not likely alone. Also, this is not the time to spy. If he gets suspicious he will warn the others. You need to bring him in. Quietly. I'm hoping that Father Simon could be of particular use with his abilities? Perhaps he could be....persuaded... she suggests with an arched eyebrow. He will likely have some underlings with him, so be ready. Lily and Ian will go with you but I have to see to Nicholas. She adds, looking a bit troubled at the prospect.

ooc: I'm about ready to move on but I'm gonna give Colin a chance to chime in if he would like.

Simon could not believe his ears. He stifled his indignation and spoke gently. "Victoria, I think that might be unwise. I believe God has sent Kate here for a reason, and to have her leave so soon...perhaps this is hasty. She might have information we still need. She might have skills we lack. She might just have some purpose beyond even our ability to understand. Perhaps you should be sure your magic is perfected?"

He too would like to have seen Kate off, but he did not want to interfere with Penny, or be near her for that matter. He was becoming paranoid about her. It was as bad as being near her and wanting her. He summoned up his courage. "I too would see you off if this is really your choice. I do not agree with it, but I will support you. I understand wanting to be home."

He listened to Victoria's reply. He nodded solemnly, stood and bowed politely to Kate. "Ms. Piper, your presence will be sorely missed among our small group. Should you think of us in your own time, think kindly and try to forget our shortcomings."

Then to Victoria, "I could indeed be persuasive, but I will need some moments to say the proper prayers."
This message was last edited by the player at 14:31, Fri 02 May 2014.

'A lawyer? The devil worshippers seem well-represented in the middle classes. ' Penny produced a slip of paper and pencil, and began writing, her movements small and neat and quick, though she kept her notes hidden. 'What type of monster is this Nicholas? Has he explained why he concealed his kills within the walls of this very facility?' Before they left, she simply had to get the full story of the case.

She looked up from her scribblings to the priest. 'Father Simon, did God also send Belial to this time? He took his own path from the Year of our Lord 2013 to 1890, for some nefarious purpose, and Miss Piper followed. We may therefore take her presence here to be happenstance, and it could possibly even alter the course of history from this point to then... Regardless, Belial's plot links both times, and it is imperative that Kate contact the Men of Letters of the 21st century, or some other supernatural authority, to deal with it on that end. She may yet return through the portal in the Connecticut crypt, perhaps with foreknowledge that may aid us.' She looked to Kate with a mixture of sadness and hope, saying 'Still, it would be sad to see you go. I do wish I could go with you.'

He did not look at Penny but answered her in a clipped tone. "Coincidence is God's way of remaining anonymous."

Colin stayed silent. The conversation was turning to philosophy and religion. He wasn't a priest like Cole or an educated person like Dreadful and Piper. Instead, his life had brought him through the fires of adversity and poverty. Pain and suffering were his siblings in his youth and now he needed to find a way to make them useful in his life now. He knew that these people would not understand. None of them had his life. None of them would ever know.

"Talkin' about her departure is all well and good. Fair winds and the like, lass. But that doesn't stop the present. People are dying, good people that have no business in ours. We need ta focus. This bastard of a demon will end us if we can't uncover his true plan. We can leave notes, perhaps, for Kate, but it will likely do us little good. If Belial succeeds, we won't get the chance. I'm goin to hit the streets ta look for my missing friends. It's the best place to start."

Simon nodded, grateful for the respite in the form of an Irishman. "I will accompany you, if you don't mind a Churchy type hanging about."

"I would love to stay," Kate admitted honestly. "But I do think it is better for me to return to my own time. I have no idea if my being here is ruining the time line and I have someone waiting for me at home." She felt a little guilty that she'd pretty much forgotten about Dalton.

Kate did not mention that the Men of Letters was pretty much extinct in her time line. The thought made her feel a little sick and she worried about what would become of her new friends.

"You be careful, Belial wants you for something." Kate warned Penny off to the side. "Just watch your back and be safe. I left my clothes in my room. You can keep them if you want," she added with a grin.

After saying her goodbyes to everyone she turned to Victoria. "I'm ready when you are."

Penny quickly stole herself some breakfast, hurriedly consumed as she worked, then packed up her pencil and note to accompany Kate and Victoria. 'Don't worry yourself about me, I believe I shall be perfectly safe.' she reassured Kate, clasping her hand in her own. 'I will treasure the Ghostbusters shirt greatly, and our brief time together. You have given me hope for the world and our cause. I shall send you a letter to detail our successes, if fortune wills that it should reach you 124 years hence. I may even return your shirt. I feel I shall be with you in the future, in spirit.'
This message was last edited by the player at 01:08, Tue 06 May 2014.

Simon had an idea. "Kate, does Western Union still exist in your time. I mean it has been around nearly forty years. We could send you messages via their couriers. I've heard tales of them waiting to deliver messages for a decade...why not 12 and a half? Of course this is a one way portal, we can send but you cannot."

Victoria listens to Father Simon's concerns and assures him that her feeling is correct. It is not magic exactly. She explains. I just know that when I get these feelings, they are never wrong. She shakes her head. At Penny's question regarding Nicholas, she quickly informs you of the situation. We believe him to be an Eretik. A Russian vampire of sorts, but not a blood sucker. He is a flesh eater and he was being provided with...sustenance in return for his help. That is why we found so many victims. He said it was Belial who created him, which I find to be...disturbing. She adds darkly.

At Colin's mention of searching for his friends she gives a nod. That is a good idea. Perhaps Ian would be so kind as to check in with his old police friends for any mention of them? If you give him their descriptions it may help cut time. She suggests.

ooc; I'm just gonna give Kate a chance to respond to the questions put to her before I send her on her merry way ;P

Earlier...

'Indeed? Yes, that certainly fits the profile: the consumption of the flesh, the pattern of feeding suggesting interruption by a third-party. The necks were broken, suggesting they were killed by another and delivered — a vampire or this eretik would make the kill with its fangs. The Russian man reportedly robbed from his grave must surely be this Nicholas — or perhaps we should call him Nikolai. The Russians believe that heretics, sorcerers, or those who sell their souls to devils may become eretiks.' Penny had explained. 'That still does account for the bodies concealed in the walls, however. You must find its accomplice.'

*

'Oh, Kate? I shall need your hotel key.' Penny added to Kate, realising she would need to return it.

"I would love a letter!" Kate said excitedly. Though she determined that if she never got one she could still use her resources to find out at least something of what happened after she left. If anything she could google their names to see what came up. Kate handed her key to Penny, "I'm glad we met Penny. You are ahead of your time, that's for sure. I'll always think of you as a good friend." Father Simon's idea of using Western Union brought a smile to her face. She'd heard stories of them delivering twenty or thirty year old messages. It would be pretty impressive if they managed one from this time. "We do still have Western Union. It's not used as much but it might work," she answered shaking the Father Simon's hand in farewell. Leaning in closer she whispered in his ear. "Don't beat yourself up over Penny. You are only human after all. I think you guys would be cute together." Not giving him time to respond she turned to follow Victoria.

'Thank you. And I shall always consider you a fine friend as well.' she replied with a small smile. She hesitated a little, then leaned in and kissed Kate softly on the cheek. 'Perhaps I should send you a ha'penny as well — in a bank account with 124 years' interest.' she added with a little mischief.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:32, Tue 06 May 2014.

He gladly shook her hand and when she leaned in to whisper he was receptive but unsure what she would say. What she said floored him, totally. He turned a shade of red normally impossible for a human being and his mouth just hung open. His eyes went large and he looked for all the world like a red human-fish hybrid. Then he looked at Penny and began hyperventilating. She knows...and she's told Penny. How could she?

He struggled. He did not want this to be the way Kate remembered him, but he was totally flummoxed. "I...need...some...air. Sorry...Kate...wish...you...luck." It was all he could manage before bolting from the room, desperately looking for fresh air before he passed out.

Probably wasn't the reaction you were looking for Kate, but true to Simon's character.

Penny frowned as Simon suddenly turned ill and fled. What on Earth was the matter now? Was it the eggs? She watched him go, feeling faintly disappointed, and lingered as the others departed. 'I shall catch you up.' she called after Kate and Victoria. Penny pocketed the key, then disappeared around the corner.

Later, she hurried after the others to see Kate off.

Colin/Father Simon: ooc: Let me know your finishing thoughts here and then we'll start your search with Father Simon to look for your buddies. Just to save time, go ahead and roll gather information, search and spot checks both of you so that I can progress the story along at a decent pace. Also Colin, let me know if you plan to see Kate off too. Thanks!

Kate/Penny: By the time Penny rejoins you, Victoria has just finished putting the last touches on the symbols for the portal. You are in the same room that Kate emerged from and Kate, you see the familiar pattern in red before you, a strange reminder of what you've been through. It is odd to think you'll be going back to your own time in a few minutes. It will be hard not to think on all of this as a dream. Good luck Miss Kate. It has been a pleasure working with you. I'm sorry to have you leave, but I feel it is necessary at this point in time. Perhaps our paths will cross again though. Victoria adds hopefully. She turns to the portal and starts to chant in what Penny thinks must be ancient Egyptian. Kate, it sounds like gibberish to you. The portal begins to glow and a bright white light starts to bloom in the center, opening up to the width of the circular symbol.

Penny arrived a little breathless from hurrying to the office, after making some final arrangements before the departure. Although sad and anxious about this, she was intrigued to see the spell being worked. She watched Victoria's actions carefully, scrutinised the symbols closely, and listened intently to the words, but could not make out too much of how the magic worked, not knowing the language used. 'Ancient Egyptian, I believe. I heard a reading at the British Museum, though the pronunciation is essentially arbitrary.' she whispered to her fellows.

As Kate readied to leave, Penny moved to stand beside Kate and squeezed her hand in support. Penny found herself as emotional as Kate surely felt, fear and hope and loss warring within her. She didn't want to lose this link to the future, she didn't want to lose this world opened up to her, and she didn't want to lose her new friend. But with a sad smile Penny nodded to Kate, accepting her choice.

Kate squeezed Penny's hand in return feeling sad that this would be the last time she saw her new friend. She felt bad about Father Simon's reaction to her teasing but realized she shouldn't be surprised. If it's one thing she'd learned it was that the man couldn't take a joke."thanks for everything. Keep safe and kick some demon ass." Her words were meant for everyone in the room. That said she stepped forward to enter the portal.

Outside Simon tried to breath deeply. He knew he needed air, but the revelation was nearly too much to bare. He looked up and prayed, earnestly, for grace to bare this burden. He prayed until Collin joined him.

Colin shook his head. He didn't know this woman and he frankly other things to worry about. She would be safe in the future, if that was indeed where she was from. He needed to get on the road. He needed to find those who were going missing. If he did that , then it would be a simple matter of following the trail to those who had taken them or worse , killed them. He stood and stuck out his and as the group went to leave, "Good luck, missy."

He nodded to Father Cole, indicating that he was ready and the priest was welcome to join.

Simon nodded back and followed Collin.

Penny/Kate: The portal opens and Kate starts to step through...

Colin/Father Simon: Ian falls into step alongside you two, looking thoughtful. Well, you're the leader in this little search party Colin. If you want to give us a few names and locations to search we can perhaps split up a bit? Or would you prefer to stay together? Whatever happens, don't go too far. There's far too many members of the Hand in town to warrant going too far alone. He added darkly. By now you are up at the warehouse, the morning sunlight is streaming through the dirty windows as best as it can and the street outside is full of the sounds of carriages and pedestrians. As you open the door and emerge onto the street you see indeed that many people are out and about. As Ian speaks to Colin, Father Simon can't help but notice a small boy of about 8 years of age standing across the street and staring at you. He looks ragged and thin but his face is a blank mask of emotion and he stares as if studying you.

ooc: Please roll search, gather information and sense motive checks you two. It will make the search go faster if I have them in advance. Thanks!

09:03, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 16 using 1d20+11. Sense Motive.
09:02, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 27 using 1d20+7. Gather Info.
09:02, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 24 using 1d20+5. Search.

Simon's prayer seemed to have worked, allowing him to focus on the task at hand with exceptional clarity. He noticed the boy across the street and calmly and quietly spoke to his comrades. "Don't look, but I believe we are being watched. The boy across the street. It would be just like our enemy to use the innocent to draw us in. I could try a trick but I want to know if you two think it worth while?"

Penny watched Kate step towards the portal, her heart beating hard against her chest in trepidation. She could scarcely believe what she was planning, what she had planned, what she had simply known she would do as soon as the idea had occurred to her only several minutes previously. It was only now at this last, decisive moment, that she had her doubts. Would it work, would she doom herself in the effort? Was the future even a place for her? But Penny knew that if she passed this opportunity up, then she would always regret her choice. She had to see the world of the future, and she had to see Kate safely there.

Giving a little gasp as she threw her concerns to the winds, Penny dashed for the portal—

Kate stepped through the portal noticing at the last moment that Penny was dashing through behind her. "Penny!" was her only protest as the room they had been in vanished from sight and they stepped into what she hoped was 2013. "You are a crazy lady!" she said in disbelief when things had settled on the other side. Though she was surprised it was hard to keep the grin off her face. It looked like they weren't going to be saying goodbye after all.

OOC: Yay! I'm not all alone!!

Penny/Kate: As Penny starts to follow through the portal, Victoria gasps. Penny NO! She shouts and grabs at your arm. Fortunately your momentum helps and you are barely able to pull away from her grip. The last thing you see as the portal closes is Victoria frantically calling your name...

Once you emerge on the other side you see that you are in a mausoleum. Kate, it looks just as you remember it. Dusty, old, and creepy as sin.

Father Simon: Ian frowns at your words but does not look. As long as your trick won't hurt the lad. He may just be an impertinent child after all, though I highly doubt it. I wouldn't be surprised if Belial has spies on us. He clearly knows where are headquarters are. He finishes cynically. Do you need anything from me?

"Just keep him busy for a moment." He waits a moment for Collin and Ian to distract the lad and then opens his Book or Liturgies and began to read.

"Omnes in unum. Christiani in eumdem locum pro eucharistica concurrunt congregatione. Cuius caput est ipse Christus in Eucharistia aevo. Hic sacerdos Novi Foederis, ipse est qui invisibiliter omni celebrationi eucharisticae praeest. Est enim in illo capite episcopus aut sacerdos in persona Christi (in persona Christi Capitis) conventui praeest, post lectiones, accipit hostiam, dicens precis eucharisticae. Actuosam in celebratione sui agere partes habeat, suo quisque modo lectorum educatore libamina eorum, qui communionem, et universus populus, qui "Amen" participationem manifestat*!"

*All gather together. Christians come together in one place for the Eucharistic assembly. At its head is Christ himself, the principal agent of the Eucharist. He is high priest of the New Covenant; it is he himself who presides invisibly over every Eucharistic celebration. It is in representing him that the bishop or priest acting in the person of Christ the head (in persona Christi capitis) presides over the assembly, speaks after the readings, receives the offerings, and says the Eucharistic Prayer. All have their own active parts to play in the celebration, each in his own way: readers, those who bring up the offerings, those who give communion, and the whole people whose "Amen" manifests their participation.

Casting Crown of Glory

Colin instinctively crossed himself as the priest began his prayer. He did not need too much to prompt him into his ingrained religious habits. Colin looked directly at the boy, seeing if he knew him. He was familiar with most of the youngsters that ran the streets as couriers and look outs. Maybe this boy was no different. Maybe he was just being hired like anyone else.

Instead of continuing to listen to the priest, Colin removed a small tin and began to make a cigarette from scratch and lit it after crossing himself. "Ya have a way with the tongue father.  An potes cognoscere? Eam tulit me paucis exercet in principes mei pars est ius me priusquam ad articulos," he said. Flowing into the dead language with practiced ease. His accent made the words hard to understand at points, but not overly so.

*Was it hard for you to learn? It took me the better part of my schooling and a few rulers to the knuckles before I got it down right.
16:19, Today: Colin Browne rolled 8 using 1d20+3. Gather Information.
16:19, Today: Colin Browne rolled 13 using 1d20-1. Sense Motive.
16:19, Today: Colin Browne rolled 12 using 1d20+2. Search.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:27, Fri 09 May 2014.

Penny bounded out of the portal, a hand clasped to her bowler hat to keep it down on her passage through time. Finding herself back on solid ground and in the material world, she let a long-held breath, a breath held perhaps for 123 years. 'Crazy like a fox.' she told Kate gleefully, still giddy with excitement and nerves, scarcely believing what she had succeeded in doing. She'd done it! 'Amazing! Travel to the future! How wonderful! Wait until Mr Wells hears about this!'

She smoothed out her coat and shirt, ruffled where Victoria had clutched at her sleeve, then straightened her tie and adjusted her hat. She couldn't look all rumpled for the future, now, could she? 'I intuited some danger to you, Kate, and this spell was too terribly convenient. Furthermore, I do not yet entirely trust Miss Green. Whatever was behind this, I simply could not let you go into that portal alone.' she said, reaching out to pat Kate on the arm. 'If this is indeed a trap, then the two of us may throw it off with ease.'

'And, of course, how I could I pass up this opportunity to see the world of the future? Suffrage and liberation for women, portable telephones, flying machines!' she went on, wide-eyed with wonder and excitement.

Now she finally took in the dusty mausoleum, grimly familiar in any time. 'I must say, this is disappointing.'

Kate opened her mouth and closed it a few times looking at her friend in amazement. "I'm sure Victoria was not happy," she laughed brushing a cobweb out of her hair. "Though I guess if she wanted you back she could probably come and get you herself..."

Kate reached into her pocket and pulled out her phone. "I wonder what the date is..." she turned it on and waited for the phone to power up. "If this is a trap then I'm really glad you came," she added distractedly, her face lit by the glow of her phone. "We should get out of here just in case."

Penny's disappointment of the mausoleum was amusing. "Don't worry, this is just where I came through at. The outside will blow you away. But be cool okay? Luckily people wear pretty much whatever they want these days so your clothes will only make you look a little eccentric."

Kate will peek out of the mausoleum to make sure the coast is clear before leading the way to where her car was hopefully still parked.

'I daresay she wasn't.' Penny murmured, looking warily back at the wall that they'd stepped out of, half-expecting Green to indeed step out. She couldn't see any kind of portal now, but found herself hoping the passage back would still function and that this wasn't necessarily a one-way trip.

Penny peered over Kate's shoulder, fascinated to see what new marvels the phone would perform. 'Do not worry, I have always maintained a cool head. It comes from being English.'

With that, she followed Kate out of the mausoleum, content to let the other woman lead the way in her own native time. Even in the old mausoleum, probably dating back to her own time, she looked about curiously at everything, as if it was a whole new world.

Simon murmured to his companion, "I've just used a liturgy, and the sound of my voice will have certain effects. Yes, it was very difficult to learn, as was Greek, but as in all things I relied on God to see me through."

Colin/Father Simon: The boy stiffens at Father Simon's attempt to cast his spell, but he seems to be able to shake off the affects, leading you to believe whatever he is, he is powerful. He gives a look of disgust at you both but wordlessly walks forward, unafraid. He holds out a letter and hands it to Colin, who vaguely recognizes him as a familiar face. One of the homeless youths you've seen about. I do not suggest you be stupid enough to try to follow me. I may not be allowed to kill you, but there's plenty of other things I could do. The words sound chilling coming from such an innocent looking face.

Penny/Kate: You head out of the mausoleum and discover it is night time. The yellow jeep is fortunately where you left it and doesn't seem to be any worse for the wear. The mausoleum is in a cemetery on the outskirts of town. If you recall your hotel is about a twenty minute drive away. You have a bit of country road to drive before you get back to the small city, Bakerton if you remember the name correctly. The night is quiet and dark, eerily so. Any streetlights on the lonely stretch of road appear to have burned out long ago. Fortunately it is a clear, dark night. For Penny, in this lonely expanse it doesn't look much different from your own time, though surely the jeep will warrant some reaction.

Penny was disappointed to discover it was night outside, and far from town, giving her little view of the 21st century world. Perhaps this was fortunate: she could see the future world in stages, and gradually accustom herself to its likely strangeness. She would be like a native tribeswoman, transported across the world to a big city like London, to see the marvels of modern civilisation for the first time.

Then she saw the vehicle. Four huge wheels of some kind of black rubber, a flat metal shell with rounded corners, all in a garish yellow. The design was vaguely reminiscent of the prototypical automobiles she'd read of, but losing all similarity to the horseless carriage. 'My word, is that an automobile? They actually caught on?' Penny exclaimed in surprise, poring over the contraption, running a finger along the cold metal.

Simon felt a chill run through his body when he realized the strength of the thing before them. He was caught off guard by this. His faith must have taken a greater beating in the past few days than he was aware of. He stood and watched, not wanting to make things worse for himself, Ian, and Collin than they already were.

"you bet they caught on!" Kate patted the side of her Jeep before digging her keys out of her bag. "I'm just glad it's still here. Trust me this is way better than that horse cart you guys use." Finding the right key she unlocked the passenger door and opened it for Penny. "Sorry about the mess. I don't usually have passengers."

The jeep was a cluttered with food wrappers and half empty bottles of water which Kate shoved into the back seat. Once she was sure Penny was settled she slid into the drivers seat and started the car. "it's about a half hour drive to town. I had a hotel room, we'll see if they kept it for me."

Kate put the jeep I  gear and pulled out onto the main road. She would worry about checking her phone for messages once they got to the hotel. "and if you're hungry I think I remember a McDonald's...a restraint on  the way." even though she'd had breakfast in 1890 her stomach longed for some real junk food.

'But horses aren't at risk of catching fire.' Penny pointed out, looking dubiously at the vehicle. 'Is it powered by steam? Or by combustion or electricity?' She recalled all three were being experimented with in her day.

The inside was no more reassuring. Penny gazed distastefully at the piles of litter strewn through the cab, wondering what kind of ragamuffin her friend was. Rather gingerly, and with the utmost lady-like delicacy, she climbed into the cab and perched primly on the seat. Finding a belt-and-strap affair, she tried to get the seat-belt on with a lot of jiggery-pokery and finally some patient help from Kate.

Then the automobile started with a fearsome growl that had Penny clutching Kate's arm for support, squealing in surprise. After that, she held tight to the dashboard and other handles, turning kind of pale. 'Doesn't it disturb the horses? she asked with a tremor in her voice, asking because it certainly disturbed her.

Finally, catching her breath and composure, she responded 'Yes, yes, I think I shall need some Scottish food after this. We didn't have much time for breakfast.'

Colin/Father Simon: ooc: I'm just waiting on Colin to get a chance to post ;)
Ian watches the child leave with a tense look. I can't stand that they are so blatantly aware of where and who we are. How are we possibly supposed to get the jump on them when they bloody know everything about us? He growls in frustration. He looks like he has half a mind to go after the boy but he manages to restrain himself.

Penn/Kate: As the jeep rolls down the road at 60 miles an hour you think it is later than you anticipated as there are no other cars out on the road and things seem far too quiet to be any earlier. About ten minutes into the drive suddenly Kate's phone starts to ring. The number is unknown... ooc: meanwhile please roll spot checks guys :)

'Is this the proper speed?' Penny asked in alarm as the automobile raced along the dark road at a terrific speed, much faster than any hansom cab. But, as the journey went on, she began to relax and even enjoy herself, growing excited as the car careened along. She returned to a fascinated inspection of the world, peered out the window to see if she could see anything outside, and fishing through Kate's litter to read the discard food wrappings. They consumed a surprising amount of sugar in this age.

She was surprised by the strange musical chiming, sounds that came from no instrument, but, it seemed, Kate's telephone. 'What is that?'


OOC: Spot 11
21:56, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 11 using 1d20+9. spot.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:30, Thu 15 May 2014.

Colin read the notes a few times before answering Ian with a smirk on his face. He finished the last of a cigarette and passed the note around. "Looks like we are expected. If we were expected, then likely we are being watched as I sit here jabbering away," he said in a nonchalant tone. He then indicated to the note. "I don't think we have a choice in the matter. I, for one, gents, would prefer to keep breathing a little while longer."

Simon waits his turn and reads the note carefully.

Kate drove easily down the road making casual conversation. It felt good to be driving and back in her own time. She could relate to how Penny must be feeling right now. "Don't worry about the car catching fire. It's pretty rare these days for cars to explode. And I'm a very good driver," she added with a grin. "It runs on gasoline. Everyone drives cars these days. Horses are more of a hobby. Maybe I'll teach you how to drive one of these days." She also assured Penny that she was indeed going the right speed.

The ringing of her phone broke the momentary silence. "That's my phone." Kate explained. "It plays a little song to let me know someone is calling." She didn't recognize the number but thought it was probably a good idea to answer anyway. "Hello..."

spot 18

'Rare.' Penny had muttered, hardly reassured by that choice of word. It seemed a pity that the electric car had not apparently seen development; its benefits had been obvious in her day.

'Oh, how clever. Ours simply ring a bell.' she said, marvelling at the phone as Kate spoke into it. Wireless communication via electromagnetic waves, in a device one could hold in their hand and place in their pocket. She'd noticed a text message function like telegraphy, and now it allowed voice communication as well. It would save on so many telegraphs and messenger boys.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:17, Fri 16 May 2014.

Colin/Father Simon: As Simon reads the letter, Ian frowns. Well, I don't exactly like keeping things from Westbrook, but considering the mole, it would be too easy for them to find out about this. Alright, I'm game for it. If it is a trap then it seems a very obvious one. Especially since they know where we are, they could in theory try for us any day. I wonder what is stopping them, besides all of the wards of course. He adds. Well, I suggest we start the search for your missing boys Colin, then we should discuss tonight's...meeting somewhere private. We may be going into the lion's den, but we won't be going unprepared...

Kate/Penny: Kate answers the phone and hears a familiar voice. Finally! Do you have any idea how many times I've been calling you?! A rough voiced man demands in frustration. About time you got back! Where are you? We need to meet. NOW. You're still in Connecticut right? We're not far from your hotel. Can you make it here? He sounds urgent. It doesn't take long for you to realize you are speaking with Dean Winchester. You've had a few cases with the Winchesters and between them and Bobby, you've been involved in a lot of their doings both as eyes and ears and as an informant when the occasion called for it. The boys have had their fair share of drama, and if Dean is calling and wanting to meet, there is always a very unpleasant reason for it. In the meantime, as you talk on the phone you see the headlights of a car in the distance behind you. It looks to be speeding up....Penny, you only see two yellow glowing lights in the rear. From your vantage they look like two torchlights or some such thing, though you would likely put two and two together that it could be another vehicle's headlights....

Simon looked down at the boy and then at Ian. "Tell him, 'Simon is uninterested in any of his deals.' Make sure you tell him I burned his letter as well. I cannot speak for them, though." From his bag he produced a box of long matches. He light one and held it to the letter until it burned away.

After that he nodded and turned from the boy, showing contempt for the creature that inhabited him. His voice becomes more pleasant and he drops the incantation. "So, Collin, do you have any idea where we can start our search?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:05, Mon 19 May 2014.

Kate was surprised to her Dean's voice on the other end. "Well hello to you too," she said sarcastically. As much as she liked the Winchesters she was not at all happy to be hearing from them when she'd only just gotten back. It was never good news when they called. "We are about fifteen minuets away. I can probably get to the hotel in ten if you want me to step on it." her gaze drifted to the rear view mirror. Whoever was behind them was in a hurry. Kate moved her phone away for a moment and turned to Penny "Make sure your door is locked," she suggested. It was never a bad idea to be a little paranoid, especially so late at night.

Penny heard a little sound of a man's voice, sounding angry about something, though she couldn't make out the words. Perhaps it was her fiancé?

Her attention was taken by two lights appearing in the mirror that displayed the road behind, and Penny craned her neck to see them directly. Her first thought was of a pair of torches, but remembering the automobile's own front lights, she quickly discerned what made them. 'Oh look, there's another car behind us.' Penny said, curious to see another one. She didn't yet know enough about this world to note its approach as suspicious. But Kate did.

Penny looked at her door, finding a few buttons and switches, unlabelled and their functions unfamiliar to her. 'Um...' she began, lost.

Kate shot Penny an apologetic smile. "It's that one," she motioned to the little tab by the handle of the door. The automatic door locks had stopped working years ago or she would have done it herself. Poor Penny. Kate could tell she wouldn't be nearly as good at teaching Penny about 2013 as her friend had been about teaching her the ways of 1890. Once they were settled she vowed to do better.

Colin/Father Simon: You fool! The boy snarls. You've just rejected the only chance you have of killing Belial! He looks truly angry about the rejection, his eyes wide with anger. I hope we meet again soon. I will take pleasure in gutting you myself! You had your chance human! He spits and starts to stalk away (ooc: providing no one else has anything to say to him ;P ) Ian frowns at the encounter, his face deep in thought as though he's wrestling with what to make of the situation.

Kate/Penny:
Who are you talking to? Dean demands in confusion. And yes, step on it! You have no idea how screwed things are about to get. If you see anyone else stay the hell away from them you hear me? Just get to the hotel as fast as you can and make sure you're not followed. He growls firmly. He always did have a way of barking a bit when he was mad. In the meantime you both can see the other car is rapidly approaching. It must be going at least ninety or more to be catching up to you this fast. Not exactly the type of speed one should be doing on winding country roads...

ooc: I'm gonna need you to make a drive check Kate. Mwahahahahahaha!!

Simon saw Ian's look, "Do not be fooled by this. Our enemy would use any trick against us, including taking a child's form so as to misdirect us. Making deals with evil can never lead to good. We cannot control the Devil, he can control us if we let him. Raise no more devils than you can put down, and right now I fear we may be at that point."

Colin shook his head and called after the boy. "Don't count me out, kid! We are individuals here, not a group," he said in a tone that told of confidence and pride. Colin rounded on the priest. "Save yer high handed sermons for the pulpit, priest. Did you ever think that the Almighty might have a hand to play here? He's got plans we can't fathom and I for one will not take everything we see at face value!" Colin then took a suddenly quiet volume, " ...and if you ever try to make a decision for me again, I will end your life. No one decides what my fate is, not you or anyone else but me. I don't care if it unsettles you. You've been warned, priest."

He resumed his normal tone and talked to Ian. "We can start over on the industrial district. Most of the newsies hang out near the factories to sell to the workers. After that it will likely be on to the marketplace. That is the next highest volume of foot traffic."

Simon smiled at Collin, "I am a man of faith, and therefor a pacifist. Any action you take against me would be met with defense only. I specifically told the demon that I alone refused his deal, therefor I made no decisions for you, my young acquiescence."

He shook his head, "As to God's plan, I am certain there is his hand in this and I am following it. I rebuke any attempts by Satan to corrupt my soul. If you sell him your own, then I will no longer be passive toward you, and it is your life that will be ended."

He turned to Ian, "Since Mr. Brown and I seem to be at a disagreement about what Providence demands, I shall return to our mutual base and try to find some other means by which I can be helpful."

He turned and went back to the Men of Letter's domicile.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:34, Mon 19 May 2014.

"I have a... unexpected visitor with me," Kate explained simply. No need to tell him about the time travel thing right now. "We have someone on our tail already. They are coming up fast. I'll try to shake them but we don't have a lot of places to turn off on this road. If we're not there in ten you'll know we have trouble." she rambled off the last street sign they'd passed to give him an idea of their location before hanging up.

"Well apparently something is not right. I have a feeling we might have mucked up the time line a little bit" She told Penny while pressing the gas pedal to the floor. "I don't think the people behind us are good news either. If you have your gun you might want to get it ready. I have a few more things stashed under the back seat too if we need them," she added pulling her own handgun out and resting it in her lap.

drive 16
This message was last edited by the player at 21:25, Fri 16 May 2014.

'Ah.' With Kate's direction, Penny had the door properly locked, wondering why they even had locks on car doors. These automobiles must be much more valuable than horse-drawn vehicles, and so a common target for theft. Or was crime much more commonplace now?

Peering into the side-mounted mirror, she noted the other car was rapidly approaching. 'It's coming closer!' she warned Kate, then drew her pistol and checked the chambers were loaded. She placed it under her bowler hat on her lap, with a hand on the hilt. 'These chase situations are much easier with horses and carts. I don't suppose we can simply dispatch the driver, or the horse.'

'That gentleman wasn't your fiancé?' Penny said, half-asking, half-stating. Kate's lack of statements of affection or missing him implied the caller wasn't close to her. Some things were the same in any time.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:08, Sat 17 May 2014.

"We can try to shoot the driver," Kate agreed, "and though they aren't as easy to hit as a horse we can shoot the tire...wheels out. They are filled with air and if we pop them it should slow the car down."

She snorted at the idea of Dean Winchester being her fiance. I wish she thought with a smile. He made Dalton look like a prepubescent teenager. "His name is Dean. Sometimes I help him and his brother out. They were the reason I followed our friend Belial into the mausoleum."

Father Simon/Colin: Ian quickly moves in between you and diffuses the situation with the practiced air of a policeman who has stepped into many a fight in his day. Now boys I think it may be best to put some distance between you two. Father, do you think you could go see if Victoria needs any help with Nicholas's list? I know she's feeling a bit overwhelmed and if she's put Lily on anything she'll likely need some supervision. She's a bit...overconfident shall we say? It may not hurt to see if she's been sent out. We try not to send her alone when we can avoid it so you could be a big help to us there.

Kate/Penny: The other driver by now is on your tail. Kate floors it so the jeep lunges forward at dangerous speeds. The issue is that whoever is chasing you doesn't seem to care about safety and they swerve dangerously to come along side you. You can see faintly in the darkness it is a woman and there is a man with her in the passenger seat. She looks over at you and Penny is sure she sees black eyes...The woman starts to ram Kate's car, jolting against the passenger side, but Kate quickly applies the brakes and the other car goes whizzing past, still hurtling with the momentum of a floored gas pedal. They quickly start to pursue though, slamming on their brakes and reversing towards you. It's then that you see a generous gap in the fence that borders the large field to your left....You are in an all terrain vehicle and they are in a sedan so the option is fairly obvious. As you make your decision you see another vehicle's headlights in the distance, approaching you...ooc: Penny, feel free to make about five attack rolls please and damage just in case.

"Get away from my car," Kate cursed when the other vehicle rammed into them on the passenger side. The Jeep may have been dirty and a little worn out but the body and paint were still pretty decent and she wanted to keep it that way. "Hang on," she warned Penny. "We're done here." Kate slammed on the breaks and grinned when the other car sped past. She saw the opening in the fence and without hesitation maneuvered the Jeep through it picking up speed. "This is probably more what you're used to," Kate said as the Jeep rambled over the uneven ground. "I hope there is a way back onto the road down here somewhere," she added as they drove deeper into the field.

Simon went back to the Men of Letter's base and began looking around for either Victoria or her father.

'Black-eyed demons!' Penny cursed as she glanced across at the driver of the other vehicle as they came alongside. Winding the window down a little, she fired her pocket revolver directly across at the driver. The now-antique weapon proved quite effective, even if it was a century since the model had been fired in anger. 'A hit, a very palpable hit!' she quoted, Shakespeare. She leaned out to fire another as they sped past, causing the demons to think twice about harrying them like this. Penny kept up her volley whenever the other car came close enough for her to hit surely, and slipped her bowler hat back on during a lull in the fighting.

'I've been down cobbled streets in a cart, don't you worry about me.' Penny said they bounced and rambled over the field. Well, a cart couldn't well do that, though Penny felt sure a horse would be a more reliable choice. 'If they follow, we may circle around and double back.'


OOC: Can I use Exploit Weakness on a car? :D Either that or the demon inside. Rolled 22 vs DC 15, success. Add +1 to the following attacks, as appropriate.

Also, using Point Blank Shot when within 30 ft, for +1 attack and damage

Those five attacks (not including bonuses):
#1: attack 27 (20), critical confirm 13, damage 5, crit damage 11
#2: attack 19, damage 7
#3: attack 16, damage 3
#4: attack 23, damage 3
#5: attack 21, damage 5

Colin: After Father Simon leaves, Ian turns to you as you both begin heading for your search. Well, in spite of Father Simon's....decline...I think I may be interested in joining you tonight for this meeting. It may be a trap of course, but I think at this point it is a chance we will have to take. Hopefully we don't both come to regret it but there just aren't enough other leads to go on at this point. He shakes his head.


Penny/Kate: ooc: Sure Penny. Go ahead and use it on the car if you wish :)

The jeep jostles you both violently as you careen through the rugged terrain but Penny nonetheless manages to hit her target a couple of times. You see blood spray on the windshield, though the driver is clearly still alive as the car races after you. Fortunately the difference in vehicle types is giving you a rather large advantage. The sedan starts to fall behind and it is clear that it is taking a lot of damage to the undercarriage. The oncoming car, however, has obviously spotted you and immediately breaks through the barbed wire fence and starts to come towards you head on. Kate's instincts kick in and you quickly swerve the car roughly to the left, evading the other vehicle and making a wide loop heading back to the road via a forceful entrance through the barbed wire. Fortunately the only damage will be cosmetic, but the screeching of metal against the jeep is enough to make you both wince. The newcomer is having a hard time turning around quickly enough to get a good gain on you and the sedan is by now far enough behind that you seem to have put enough distance to escape. Provided you keep up the pace and no one else comes after you of course.


Father Simon: You head back inside to headquarters and as you are looking, one of the members points you in the right direction upon asking if you need help finding anything. Westbrook is out I believe, but Victoria is in her quarters fuming about something or other. A young man informs you. Also, I don't know if you are aware but I think I saw Miss Penny slide something under your door earlier. Looked like a note of some kind, just in case you haven't seen it yet. He adds helpfully. It is clear he is more than a little curious as to what it is about. IF you decide to investigate this note you will find the following: (if not then please ignore for now!)

Slipped under Simon's door was an envelope, address simply to "Father Cole". It contained two folded pieces of note paper and two keys. The paper was covered in a hastily written though yet fussily neat woman's handwriting.

Father Cole,

Forgive my brevity, but time is short. Although you may not think well of me, you are the one remaining fellow I can trust. I'll be following Ms. Piper to the future — the timing of this spell is suspect and I fear Kate will come to harm. I shall see her safely to 2013 AD, learn what I can of our present situation, and return through the time-portal if possible. I also simply cannot pass up this opportunity to see the future world.

If I do not return in a timely fashion, then I grant you the legal right to handle my affairs in New York, as in the accompanying letter. That is, my bank account and hotel stay. Please find included two keys for our rooms at the New York Hotel, so that you might end our stay there. Please send all personal effects and documents to my lawyer in London (address below), and keep all money for your charity.

Yours sincerely,

Penny

The next letter went:

I, Lady Penelope Ann Veracity Darkmoor, a.k.a. "Penny Dreadful", of London and Darkmoor Manor, Devon, England, being of sound mind and body, hereby appoint Father Simon Cole as my legal representative in the Americas, while I embark on an expedition to conduct historical research in the Miskatonic region.

It went on with similar formal, legal details, with the lawyer's name and address, and ended with an elaborate signature and a noble seal that incorporated a weird spiral design.

Simon did not go to his room immediately, he wanted to make sure he told Victoria straight away. He knocked politely and waited to be told to enter. "Please forgive my intrusion, Ms. Victoria, but I have something I need to speak with you about and I need to tell you before I forget. We who left were accosted by a demon in the form of a small boy. We were given a note, which asked for a meeting with Mr. Brown, Mr. Shaw, and myself alone tonight. It also said not to reveal this to you, or my life was forfeit. As you can see, I put little stock in the threats of our enemy, for my soul is safe."

He stopped for a moment and then went on, "I believe Mr. Brown intends on keeping this meeting. I, though, burned the letter before the courier and this infuriated him. He claimed we would have no other opportunity to defeat Belial. Of course we both know this is a lie and a trap for those who do go. I will not put myself in a position where dealing with our enemy is even a choice."

He nodded, "Thank you for your attention." He stopped again and looked down. "In any case Penny seems to have left me a note or something and I should go and see what that is about."

After whatever conversation Victoria wished he went to his room and picked up the envelope. He thought a long time before opening and reading it. What he read shocked him. How could she be so...selfish...so juvenile. Did she really think only of her own gratification?! God slapped him in the face with the fact that he had placed her on some pedestal, making her in his mind a woman who thought of others first. That was what had drawn him to her, along with her intellect. This, though, was proof of her self-centered self-indulgent juvenile and reckless personality. How could she? How could she put them all in danger? How could she put the future in such peril?! He angrily waded the letter she wrote to him and threw it into the fire. He shook his head at the rest. He was so disgusted by her actions he considered tossing them into the flames as well.

Instead he put them into his pocket. He would decide later whether or not he would actually go through with this...insanity. She had to be insane, no sane person would so flippantly put others in jeopardy...the world in jeopardy...for some selfish whim. He needed to let off some steam. He asked for directions to the gym. When he arrived he stripped to the waist and tapped his hands up so as not to damage them. He went at the heavy bag like it was Satan himself.

"I'm so glad you came!You make an excellent wing man," Kate complimented her friend as she maneuvered back onto the road. She kept a firm foot on the gas going as fast as she thought safe. "I think your hunch may have been right. Either demons have gotten bolder and attack anyone driving late at night, or they were waiting for me to come back." Maybe Victoria wasn't so trustworthy after all? Kate found herself hoping the others were doing better than they were.

Penny made certain her safety straps were done up tightly (they seemed to do so automatically anyway) as they careened about the fields like a drunkard, bumped up and jostled against their seats. She clutched tight to the dashboard as the demon-driver threatened to ram them head-on, but had the presence of mind to fire off a few more shots as they approached and passed each other.

Finally, they were free and back on the firm, strangely smooth road. 'Wing man?' Penny repeated slowly, white-faced with shock over the near-collision. Licking her mouth, which had become dry with open-mouthed tension and more than a little squealing, she found her wits and said 'Well, I don't know about that, but I'm glad I rode as a shotgun messenger...'

Steadily, she began reloading her revolver from her tool-bag as she spoke, working through the implications of recent events. 'If they had been waiting for you, then they would surely have staked out the crypt and ambushed us there. That suits a demon's typical tactics and strengths... No, they met us on the road, suggesting they were hurrying to catch you. That tells us they were warned of your coming, but only recently, else they would have already arrived at the crypt. This then implies a means of communication between the present — ah, 1890 — and 2013.' Penny surmised.

'Who warned them and how, that is the question. A spy at the crypt with one of your pocket telephones? They could have attacked us there, or sabotaged your automobile... Victoria or whoever found the spell would have had plenty of time to warn their future agents in advance, before even informing us. Unless, of course, the means of communication was the spell itself, but, as Victoria did not immediately pursue me through it, I doubt it lasted long enough. Still, I cannot discount it. That leaves us with the original possibility of a spy among the Men of Letters. Whoever knew you were leaving so soon after breakfast must have hurried to warn the Hand of Baal in this time. This gives us a small list of suspects: Victoria Green; the native woman, Lily; Ian Shaw, still; Colin Browne; and anyone else Victoria informed. Plus, of course, myself, to be honest, given my suspicious behaviour beforehand. Given that I have not attacked you now, I hope that exonerates me...' she added in wry amusement.

Then Penny blanched in shock as she realised who else should be on her list, who else had acted so suspiciously and disappeared so quickly earlier, and spoke the name with uneasy dread. 'And Father Cole. Good god. And to think I told him—' Penny trailed off, unable to finish as the words caught in her throat.

Father Simon: Victoria listens gravely and nods at your words. I see. This is disturbing news, thank you for telling me. I must ask you though to keep this between you and myself. There is still a spy amongst us and though you may not fear for you life, I do, not to mention Ian's life. Also, for the time being I suggest not even telling Westbrook. I think someone has found a way of spying on him that I have yet to discover. There's been too many...incidents that I've noticed. I don't want him to accidentally give anything away. Once I know it is safe I will tell him. She frowns. I will admit Father, sometimes I feel like everything is falling apart. I don't know who to trust anymore. Well, I know a few people but it is difficult to do what is to be done with only a few people at my aid. ooc: I will give you a chance to say what you need to Victoria and then I will jump ahead to the gym!

Penny/Kate: ooc: I'm just giving you two a chance to finish up your conversation and then I'll move you along to the meeting point :)

Simon nodded, "I understand confidentiality. I will say nothing to no one until you give me the word." He began to turn and go but stopped himself. "Remember this, Victoria, 'all things work together for the good of those who serve Him.' God's works are not our own. Sometimes when it seems as though things are falling apart, it is simply His way of asking us to depend on him. Now if you will excuse me, I believe I will go and hit the heavy bag, relieve some frustrations, you know."

OOC: Got it, ready in the gym.

"Don't worry, I don't consider you a suspect," Kate laughed. "But you're right, it could be anyone back in 1890. Who knows! Even Mr. Westbrook could be a suspect! I saw a movie once where that happened..." Kate kept her eyes on the road, checking the mirrors frequently to make sure they weren't followed. Penny's mention of Father Simon caught her interest. "You told him what?" She found it hard to believe the good father would be the spy but stranger things had happened. "Hopefully we will get some answers as to what is going on when we get to the hotel. Something is not right here if they are wanting to meet so urgently."

Penny answered hesitantly, uncertain now that this had been quite the best course of action, though she didn't doubt that accompanying Kate to the future hadn't been a bad idea, her preparations might have been better made. 'I— I wrote him a letter to explain my intentions, including some details and actions to take. Well, he seemed the most trustworthy one there, being a priest and all. But he left breakfast in such a state of shock or anxiety, I have to wonder now...'

'Well, regardless, we have only potential suspects and circumstance, no hard evidence. I can settle matters when I return... If I return, I suppose...' Penny trailed off, beginning to worry that she might not be able to return after all. It had been a risky gamble. Had she cast herself adrift in time, and lost everything she'd known?
This message was last edited by the player at 08:53, Thu 22 May 2014.

Father Simon: As you pound away on the heavy bag for a while, you are suddenly interrupted by a short laugh. You turn to see Lily observing you with a look of dry amusement. You look nearly as angry as Victoria. I'm assuming this has to do with Penny's....holiday? She muses. Sorry to bother you, I can see you're venting, but Victoria sent me to get your...assistance with the list. She prefers that I always have a partner. She frowns with a bitter look. You catch ONE street on fire and suddenly everyone thinks you need supervision.


Kate/Penny: ooc: Feel free to interject/finish conversation as needed if I moved along too quickly ;P

The rest of the drive goes smoothly and it doesn't take long to meet at the hotel. The streets are pretty empty this time of night. Looking at your clock it reads 1:45 a.m. The hotel is a bit seedy and run down but considering how much traveling is required in this line of work it is hardly worth spending hard earned money on more than a roof over your head. As you pull into the parking spot you see the black Impala in the parking lot. The Winchesters step out of the car, joined by a handsome dark haired man in a trench coat and white shirt and tie. Penny, you see they are dressed in jeans and button up shirts. The clothes are not exactly fashionable but they aren't as foreign as you expected them to be. You also cannot help but notice the pair are incredibly good looking. No doubt by this time you are also fairly blown away by the stop lights, paved streets, numerous cars and of course the buildings. Kate, Dean steps forward looking around suspiciously, clearly looking for anyone who shouldn't be watching. Hotel room. Now. He says roughly, looking stern. Sam gives you a tight smile of greeting. He always was the more polite of the two. The trench coated man follows behind with a sober expression. Uh....Kate? Tell me your friend is dressed like that because she just came from a costume party.... Sam notes uncomfortably. It is the trench coated man who answers though. She's from 1890. Her name is Penny. He says flatly.

ooc: Kate, you haven't had the opportunity to meet Cas yet, hence you don't know who he is. You have heard them mention him though, so you may be able to come to the conclusion on your own.

Simon turned to the laugh and saw the young native american girl. He caught the bag, and steadied it She spoke about his anger, and he nodded. "Even Christ got angry. Anger is not evil, its what we do with the anger that can be evil. I choose to vent my frustrations on an inanimate object." He began removing the tape from his hands. "I thought she...Penny...was a person who did not succumb to selfish whim. I was apparently wrong on that impression. I am angry with her for putting us all in jeopardy. I am angry with myself for being angry."

She told him she needed his help and he nodded. "Very well. I will need a moment to dress I will join you outside then." Indeed it only took him a few minutes to dress and find the young woman. He gave her a wry smile, "Burning down streets, eh? It sounds as if you have a story that I would enjoy hearing."

Lily laughs at the recollection. Well, to be truthful I may have gone to extremes on that one. You see, of everything I have seen and faced, witches are the worst for me. I find them immensely disturbing and the horrific things their wicked little minds come up with to torment others just puts me in a panic. There was a coven at the time and I may have become a little too liberal with my use of lamp oil and matches. I had no idea the fire would spread so fast.... She finishes sheepishly. If we run into any again, I suggest YOU take the lead. I sometimes get out of control when it comes to witches. She grins. As for Penny, don't be too hard on her, or yourself. We all have reasons for what we do and I'm sure Victoria will give her more than a good tongue lashing when she returns. I'm sure Victoria would never let her stay in the future long. Besides, isn't the church supposed to be about forgiveness? Of course, if she affects time poorly and the world ends in a week I may be a bit miffed myself. She adds. It's amusing actually. Usually I'm the one with the temper people are trying to calm. I'm sure our roles will be reversed in no time. She notes with a smile. Now tell me, how are you stocked for holy water? I have a feeling we're going to need some. The suspect we're investigating is likely not going to be alone...

Staring in fascination at all the sights, Penny gave the impression of a dog with its head out the window of the car. It was too dark for a good look, but she could see well enough. Though buildings had changed in architectural style, they weren't wholly unusual, hardly an exotic vista out of some scientific romance. So much glass and steel, it was almost like the Crystal Palace and as grand. Electric lighting was a common place, there were many direction signs she could scarcely fathom, and bill-posters, some quite large, advertising various goods and services in garish colours and photographs — in colour! Some things seemed quite familiar, others wholly unusual. Penny gasped in shock and embarrassment at the amount of skin on show in a lingerie advertisement. 'Pornography! It seems to be everywhere, mostly women, I see.' she concluded, disappointed. Standards had changed, though the balance scarcely had.

She gazed upon the three men they'd evidently come to meet: handsome fellows, if rather large and a bit of rough. 'Your acquaintances? They dress like lumberjacks.' she noted in distaste.

Penny climbed out of the automobile, and stared at the other car, a long black vehicle, quite sleek. 'Oh look, another one.' she noted, before greeting the gentlemen. They seemed rather rude, especially the one called Dean, though the one in the trenchcoat seemed gentlest. 'Good evening, gentlemen. Yes, very astute observation, sir. I am indeed Penny Dreadful, late of London and the year 1890. Pleased to meet you all.' Penny greeted in enthusiasm, raised her bowler hat.

'And I scarcely think it is proper for ladies to meet with men in their hotel rooms, sir.' she accused Dean. 'Shall we dine at McDonald's and talk there? Do you expect the restaurant to be open at this late hour?'
This message was last edited by the player at 15:52, Thu 22 May 2014.

He smiled warmly at her story. "I believe I understand your point of view. There is a reason witches were burned at the stake. I feel for the souls wrongly convicted of that crime, though. I suspect I would have been making sure your fire wouldn't spread rather than stopping you from setting it."



He shrugged at her talk of forgiveness. "God forgives. He demands that we forgive. I am sure he will have to help me greatly if I am to follow this command in this situation. You see it wasn't just me she betrayed, it was everyone everywhere and perhaps everywhen. All so that she could experience the future..."



He checked his bag. "I have some. It would not be difficult to get more. I could stop and get more easily enough. I have certain privileges with the Church after all. Shall we depart?" He is polite in his responses, but he is clearly wrestling with his own anger over Penny's actions.

"Yeah, things have gone down hill in the modestly department," Kate pulled into the hotel parking lot. "I told you my outfit wasn't that bad,"

She parked the Jeep noticing the Winchesters and a third man were already waiting. Kate didn't recognize the man in the trench coat but she assumed he was a friend or else he wouldn't be there. Penny's comment about the lumberjack clothes brought a smile to her face and she slid out of the Jeep taking a moment to circle and survey the damage. There were some scrapes and dents but nothing too serious.

Kate couldn't help but feel like a school girl who'd been sent to the principles office. None of them looked very happy to see her. She was surprised when the man in the coat answered Sam's question about Penny for her. That was all Penny needed to make her own introductions and Kate stood back with a smile, watching the others reactions.

When Penny objected to going into the hotel with the men Kate laughed. "She's a load of fun. You should have seen her on the drive up. And I may have promised her a trip to Mcdonalds." Getting serious she patted Penny's shoulder. "After that car chase I think it's probably safer to go inside. We can use my room if you want. If they kept it for me." She dug in her bag and pulled out a key. "We have a lot of explaining to do I think..."

Penny nodded to Kate's recommendation. 'Very well, wherever you think is best... A pity, though, I was hoping to try one of those "Big Mac" sandwiches and French-fried potato dishes. Judging by the litter in your car, you seem to be quite fond of them.'

Returning her attention to the men, she pointed at Dean with her cane. 'Now you, sir, can stand to be more polite to a lady of Ms. Piper's standing. And you,' she pointed at the one in the long coat, her tone turning accusing 'Can please explain how you know my name — Kate did not mention it on the telephone. Furthermore, explain how you can know the year we came from so precisely. I may be wearing a gentleman's suit from the era, but I note from advertising that gentleman's fashions have changed quite slowly.' Her skills of observation and deduction were still catching up to this time and her excitement, but she'd caught the fellow's inexplicable use of her name. She scrutinised him under the electric light, growing increasingly bewildered. 'You bear no sign of labour or trade, suggesting nobility or wealth. Yet your clothes are unkempt, lived in, but entirely unfrayed. I see not a speck of dust, thread, or fluff, no dirt on the hem of your coat, the cuffs of your trousers or upon your shoes. You are...' A scruffy kind of perfection. 'What are you?' she asked, suspicion giving way to a sense of awe.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:05, Sun 25 May 2014.

In reply to Artemis (msg # 184):

Colin nodded at Ian, ready to let the foul taste of the confrontation go. Let the priest go in a huff, see if Colin cared. He never did in those situations. Colin instead began to walk down the street. As they walked, he lit up another cigarette. "We have to find out who is pulling the strings. The kid was a simple messanger. We need the writer. That means we have to find the missing homeless. They will lead us up the chain and on to the bitter end. There we will likely find who sent the message in the first place, hopefully before we actually hit up that meeting."

Father Simon: Lily gives you a sympathetic look, seeing you are still angry. Well, I would tell you it's not good to hold onto anger but then I'd be a hypocrite. She grins. I may seem jovial enough now, but trust me, I have a fearful temper. She admits sheepishly. Now come, we can perhaps stop along the way and get more holy water then. We are a bit short here I'm afraid, what with all the increases in demon activity. The other hunters are understocked as it is. She shakes her head. She walks as she talks, adjusting her holster and weapons with an expert hand. The first suspect I've been assigned is a man named Henry Templeton. He is a butler of all things! He works for a wealthy family on the edge of the city. They have an estate there. Whether they are involved themselves I am not sure, but Nicholas was very specific about Mr. Templeton. She informs you with a thoughtful look. I will admit, I'm not the best at...subtlety. My plan was to feign a social reason to meet with him, take him out back, and pummel the truth out of him. I imagine you have a better idea though. She accuses with a laugh.

Simon nodded as they made their way to the streets. He hailed a handsom cab for them. He told the driver to take them to the closest catholic church. Once inside he was thoughtful. "I know that butlers of large households often handle finances. Perhaps we can go to him collecting alms for the poor and us that as an excuse to question him...and pummel him if necessary. I admit that pummeling him would help work off some of this...energy."

Kate/Penny: Dean does not look amused at Penny's scolding. Lady, you haven't begun to see me impolite. You're just lucky I don't have time to give you a piece of my mind because then you really would get your hoity-toity antique knickers in a twist. He fumes. Now, move your Victorian little ass inside before I move it for you. His brow is furrowed and he looks decidedly angry as he speaks but Sam puts a warning hand on his brother's shoulder. Dean! You shouldn't talk to her that way! He scolds with a look of disapproval. She's from 1890, cut her some slack. And she's right, you are a being....kinda douchey. He informs him with a flat look. Dean looks most unhappy with this observation and is about to retaliate when the man in the trench coat intervenes. Enough! Both of you! You can compare each other to vaginal irrigation equipment later. Right now there are more pressing things than fighting with each other. He snaps flatly. His face is always a hard slate of concentration and seriousness. Clearly this man is very focused, even his voice is a bit monotone and hard sounding. He turns to Penny. My name is Castiel. I am an angel of the Lord. Consequently I know a great deal. I also will suggest you forgo partaking of the so called, 'Big Mac.' It is absolutely terrible for you. In the meantime though, Dean's right. We need to get inside. Now.

Colin: Then we have a lot of work to do. Will you be alright if we split up? I hate to do it but there's not much of a chance if we waste what little time we have. We can meet down by the docks around four or so if that works for you? I mean to work my way there anyway. See if anyone saw anything that went on last night that we missed.

Lily looks absolutely delighted at the suggestion. Oh wonderful! I was afraid you would be disapproving of pummeling. How lovely to know it is still on the table! She laughs. You also note that she dips her fingers in the holy water at the entrance of the church, making the proper sign of the cross. This does not wholly surprise you, as many Native people have been schooled in the ways of the church. In spite of her obvious ties to her heritage in the beads in her hair, the buckskin boots and her leather skirt, she appears to be Catholic. Perhaps this is why she seems to trust you already. Seeing as how you are the obvious choice to ask for alms, I will let you take the lead. I can be your lowly Indian assistant. She finishes with bitterness. It is clear she's dealt with her share of racism and does not take well to it. She's an interesting dichotomy of character. Obviously she is at least somewhat devout in the Catholic religion, but she also has a fierce loyalty to her heritage.

He crossed himself behind her. "We'll need to see the monsignor, and your my assistant, period. Your race and gender mean nothing to me. Its your ability and experience that count...and your heart. Now for holy water."

Penny was shocked at this Dean fellow's rude talk of knickers and arse, and was about to tell him to mind his language when his more sensible brother and the other man intervened. But the inexplicable talk of feminine hygiene shocked her further, and left her blushing furiously. That was not a subject for men! And to bring it up in the street without cause. How far the future had fallen!

Then she received a different kind of shock as Castiel claimed to be an angel. She could scarcely believe it, never had they been sighted in occult lore or hunter's tales. Yet her observations showed how supernatural, how divine the man was. But she was too offended to accept it now. Penny narrowed her eyes at the three strange men. 'Hmph. Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go.' she said, and began marching off to the hotel, tapping her cane against the bitumen, acting for all the world as if she was in charge, but just trying to give herself some space.

Father Simon: Lily listens to your words with a look of surprise which quickly blooms into a smile that completely transforms her face into one of the most beautiful you've ever seen. The woman was always pretty but when she smiled it had a way of changing her face in a most surprising way, softening the angular features and causing her glittering green eyes to practically twinkle. The moment is over quickly though for a second later you are taken to the monsignor who listens to your request with an air of distraction, though he quickly grants it. You get the feeling he is dealing with something stressful for he looks a bit agitated.

Penny/Kate: You head into the hotel easily. It seems that Kate's room is still intact, which fills her with relief. The Winchesters are silent as they follow you in, bringing up the rear and watching behind you as though expecting something to go wrong. When at last they are satisfied they enter and lock the door behind them. The hotel room itself is a bit on the run down side. The television is the old clunky kind that is heavily outdated. Penny, you see a strange box with a glass like screen and two thin metal rods sticking out of the top. The rest of the room seems conventional enough, though the style is not to your liking, the carpet is the color of a mossy green and the whole place smells musty. The men ignore the surroundings, instead they turn to face you both, sober expressions on all three. Ok, I'll put this nicely. Dean begins, though sarcasm rings heavily in his tone. What the he- I mean, what did you do Kate? Tell us everything.

Brick walls, carpet in every room, electricity throughout. 'What a palace!' Penny exclaimed as she gazed around the hotel room. A faded and faintly musty palace, true, but it was far from the wooden-walled village inns Penny had become accustomed too.

Penny immediately started playing with things, turning the lights on and off, then moved swiftly to the box, seeing it to be the most advanced piece of technology in the room. At first, she thought it was some kind of glass-fronted cabinet, but found no hinges or handle, and an awful lot of buttons. Penny tapped the screen and started poking buttons curiously, heedless of the other's discussion, though at least Dean had improved. 'My, is this some kind of telephonoscope?' she asked.


OOC: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telephonoscope

I'll leave you to decide what's on early morning US television. ;)
This message was last edited by the player at 00:42, Thu 05 June 2014.

Lilly's smile could light up New York, it was too bad she used it so rarely. It was also obvious that she wanted people to treat her as an equal, which was easy for Simon, he believed everyone was equal.

The monsignor seemed distracted and even agitated. Simon pursued this. "Sir, is there anything I can be of aid to you on?"

Kate was relieved that the room was still checked out to her and that her things were still there. She self consciously tidied up, stuffing a few articles of clothing back into her duffel bag glad she hadn't left her underwear lying around. She laughed at Penny's amazement of the room though she had to admit it did seem nicer than what most people had in 1890. "That's the television" she grabbed the remote and turned the volume down when Penny's exploration turned it on. "It's got actors who do...plays." She used the remote to find the Disney channel, something she thought would be safe for Penny to watch.

"Well I followed that Smith guy like you wanted me to," Kate turned to the others who were waiting expectantly and explained everything from the portal at the mausoleum that led to the Men of Letters, to the Bentley's to Balial. "I tried not to fiddle with time line too much, I didn't kill anyone..." She suddenly remembered the shifter and shrugged. "Well I killed a shifter but if I hadn't I'm sure one of the others would have so no big deal there. Then Victoria sent me back through the portal and Penny came through with me. It wasn't exactly planned." she added quickly. She left out that Penny had purposefully come through with her. "Anyway that's about it. Care to tell me what I missed here? Any idea why we were attacked on the way over? She pulled her phone out and stuck it on the charger by the nightstand.

Penny's eyes widened in wonder as she saw a cartoon of a — what is it a mouse? — dancing around. The art of moving pictures had come so far since the praxinoscope and the like. Prodding the metal rods mounted on top produced a disturbance in the image. She soon divined the general principles of operation. The wires at the top surely received modulated electromagnetic waves, which were converted by some means to sound and vision. 'Extraordinary! Wireless transmission of sound and moving images via radio waves.' Sitting on the edge of the bed, she watched the television play in rapt fascination, lost as to what was going but steadily learning strange trivia of the 20th and 21st centuries. Things had changed so, so much in the last century or more.

But her keen and observant mind was not wholly distracted, and she listened in on Kate's explanation to the Winchesters, occasionally adding some pertinent detail. She also discreetly observed the three men and tried to apply Holmes's Trick to them, to deduce their moods and actions. However, the great differences in the future society meant there would be much she could not fathom or draw links between, just as Holmes could scarcely read the monsters he unwittingly encountered. But some things changed little, such as hunters, or men. 'And so soon after your telephone call?' she added inquisitively.


OOC: Putting the Sherlock Scan on the boys. :D
20:00, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 25,9,24 using d20+13,d20+7,d20+9. scan Cas: investigate, sense motive, spot.
20:00, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 14,10,14 using d20+13,d20+7,d20+9. scan Sam: investigate, sense motive, spot.
20:00, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 28,11,19 using d20+13,d20+7,d20+9. scan Dean: investigate, sense motive, spot.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 12:09, Thu 05 June 2014.

Father Simon: The Monsignor looks up in surprise, as though he was unaware of how transparent his stress was. He pauses and then frowns. As much as I would appreciate your help, I don't think there's anything you can do I'm afraid. He shakes his head. I fear there have been some thefts as of late and try as I may to find the culprits, they keep slipping past me. I fear there may be a thief in our midst. It is the only explanation.

Penny/Kate: Penny, from your scrutiny you can determine a few things. Castiel is fairly unreadable other than that his clothes are a bit wrinkled and faded but the rest of him is difficult to determine. He is clearly very serious and driven and his eyes are so piercing that you swear he could see into your soul. If he is indeed an Angel as he claims, perhaps he can. The idea is unsettling. As for Sam, he looks to have a kindly face, though a bit haunted and troubled looking. His eyes tend to be a mixture of sad and driven and he hunches ever so slightly as though keenly aware of being the tallest in the room by far. He is broad shouldered and powerful looking and you get the impression that he has an air of self discipline about him. Dean looks to be a temperamental sort and you catch a glimpse of a flask in his jacket. His clothes are worn and a bit rumpled, as are his brother's suggesting a life on the road. In spite of Dean's almost brutish manner you also can see he is intelligent and observant though his eyes reveal a tired, broken man inside.

It is Castiel who answers your questions. It was your interference with Emma Bentley that caused the change. The angel informs you flatly. She was instrumental in stopping Belial and you have changed that somehow. He frowns, mulling over the matter. Dean speaks up then, looking accusing. Yeah, and in the process you royally screwed the future. Sam gives him a dry look and Dean glares at his brother. Really? Again with the nice thing? When two chicks cause another friggin apocalypse I can't even yell a little bit? Sam gives him a secretive meaningful look of disapproval and you see him mouth the word, "Dalton." As if reminding him of something. Dean's face quickly changes and he looks a bit guilty. Well, whatever, we all make mistakes sometimes right? Dean continues quickly, his anger quickly fading. It is clear he's trying to avoid the subject his brother reminded him of. Basic story in the short run, you guys screwed- uh , affected something and in three months time in Jack the Ripper land things will literally start going to hell and life as you know it will start sucking about a hundred times more than it does now. It will pretty much be hell on earth, and as someone who's spent a fair bit of time there, I suggest we try to avoid that. He finishes drily. Castiel leans forward then and with a look at Penny he says in a low voice to Dean, I would avoid any Jack the Ripper references around Penny. Dean gestures in frustration. Seriously? Is there ANYTHING I'm allowed to say? You take over then Sammy. I can't open my mouth without you guys freaking out apparently.

Simon approached, "Monsignor, this is Lily, she is assisting me in an investigation for...our mutual friends? She will keep your confidence. Perhaps I can be of aid in tracking down your thief, tell me. What has gone missing? What clues do you have about the thief?"

Kate flopped down on the bed with a scowl. She was afraid it was going to be something like that. "Well what was I supposed to do? Just hide under a desk in 1890 for the rest of my life? I mean I got dropped smack dab in the middle of the Men of Letters headquarters." Knowing they "screwed the future" as Dean put it was not a good feeling. "We didn't even kill Emma Bentley," she added defensively. "I thought she was working with Belial..." She caught the exchange between the brothers and the mouthed familiar name. "What about Dalton?" she asked cautiously. It was strange that she hadn't had any missed calls from him while she'd been gone.

Penny stood up off the bed to confront the men. 'First of all, you need not think me delicate as regards the Ripper — I was the one who gutted the fellow.' She was surprised to hear the Ripper killings were still so well known in this age, but it seemed a testament to how ghastly and shocking they had been. Penny wondered if they knew the truth of it yet, and of her own involvement. Or was she forever forgotten? 'Second, I only asked you to be polite to Ms. Piper. I feel you owe her that much after what your mission put her through and put in motion. Your strange future language may be crude and upsetting to me, but I can accept that things have changed.'

'And third, yes, you are indeed quite mistaken. The Bentlys were working with Belial and the Hand of Baal, not against them. Ms. Piper has been a great help, but we have not accomplished any more than we would have done acting on our own. If your history has indeed changed, then the demon lord Belial would be my first suspect. I suggest you tell us what you believe happened.'

Penny caught the mouthed name. It had meant little to her, but clearly it did to Kate. 'Who is Dalton?' Penny added softly, carefully, already realising from Kate's action it was someone close to her. Her fiancé, perhaps?

Father Simon: The Monsignor looks at Lily a moment as if deciding whether to trust her or not, but he begins to explain the situation. Well, at first I thought the thief was after monetary gain only. We had certain valuable items taken that would be easily sold on the street and I thought perhaps some vagabond or the like had robbed us. Then I looked into the matter... He looks around as though making sure no one can overhear. There was a certain...important item that I had recently acquired. No one but myself knew about it as it was a recent acquisition. It was held safe in my personal office. It was a...relic. He looks grave. It was very well hidden and nothing else in my office was touched. In fact, had I not had reason for looking at it, I would not have known it was gone for some time. Who could have known about this but myself? I think perhaps someone inside the church has lost their way. Someone must have found out about the relic. I kept the knowledge of it very secret.

Penny/Kate: The brothers exchange uncomfortable looks at Kate's question of Dalton. They instead choose to address the other matters first. Wow, really? Dean blinks at Penny's admission of killing the ripper. That's actually pretty awesome. He looks at you as if rethinking his previous opinion. Castiel then takes the lead, his ever focused face unchanging as he speaks. Emma is not working with Belial. She is in fact working for the Hand of Baal. Belial claims to be an ally to the hand, but in truth he seeks power for himself. A few of Baal's followers have suspected his true intentions and they mean to protect their master's interests. That is why Emma was gaining use of the shifter, so that he could take Belial's form. She had a plan, though the details are uncertain. Had Kate not been there that night, you and Ian would have died and Emma would be free to see her plan through. That is how you have changed history. Whatever Emma's plan was, it would have worked apparently. Now, with no one to stop him, Belial will take power and history itself will change for the worse. He finishes darkly.

As Castiel speaks, Sam quietly approaches Kate. When there is a pause in the angel's explanation he says quietly, Kate, this isn't easy for me to tell you but you deserve to know. A couple of days ago we ran into Dalton on a job. He....was with someone else. I'm sorry. His brown eyes are full of sympathy. Seeing Sam make his move, Dean has also sidled to you. You probably haven't heard from him because it's hard to talk on the phone with a broken jaw. His sudden smirk leads you to think he may have had a hand in that...

Suddenly Simon wished Penny were with him, well maybe not Penny...The Great Detective though now he would be a fit companion. Simon was at a loss as to what questions to even ask. He began with the most basic. "Alright lets start with the most basic things. What was the artifact? What powers did it possess? Who else has access to your private office?"

"Well I guess one shifter does make a difference," Kate muttered while Castiel explained the events that had changed the future. She was ashamed that she didn't feel sorry since her not interfering would have resulted in Penny and Ian's death.

Sam's information about Dalton brought a confused wave of relief. She was worried that he'd died or something. Then the reality of it sank in and she wished he had. "Well... anyone want to take a trip to Hawaii in a couple months. Looks like I won't be going...That is if the world hasn't ended or something." She blinked back a few tears, managing a smile at Dean's comment about the broken jaw. "That's not all that will be broken when I'm done with him," she added. Pull yourself together she thought to herself angrily. After all a girl who killed demons and all sorts of other evil didn't cry over a stupid breakup.

After another awkward moment Kate stood and crossed to the window to look out. "So how do we fix this? I mean Penny has to go back sometime anyway. Can't we pop back through and clean things up?" She directed her question to Castiel since he seemed to know everything about everything.

Colin scratched his head as he walked away from Ian, the conversation needing to go no further. It was a dangerous situation and Colin needed answers that could prove just as deadly as the situation that had spawned them. He made his way down aimlessly towards the industrial district. There was the highest population of wayward street urchins. If he needed to track down those that were missing, this was the place. He moved silently among the alleyways and side streets, looking for the normal contacts. He had decided that the best way to go about finding the missing boys was the harass his usual middlemen about why he couldn't find some of his regulars and if they were cheating him.

Now, he only needed to find the right guy.

Penny smiled slightly, briefly, as the revelation of her killing the Ripper earned her some admiration from Dean. It didn't last long as Castiel, the supposed angel, explained things he couldn't possibly have known. She and Ian were meant to die? No, she could not, would not accept that. They were entirely justified in their fight for life. 'Preposterous. As effective as Ms. Piper was last night, I would not have gone alone. Father Cole, Lily, or Miss Noriko would likely have accompanied me in her stead. Events would have proceeded much the same, a harder battle, perhaps.'

Then she listened carefully as the Winchesters broke the news to Kate. Penny soon divined that this "Dalton" was indeed Kate's fiancé, and he was found courting someone else. Penny took a step closer to her friend, but the argumentative detective suddenly found little to say. Love was one field she had no practical experience in. 'I'm sorry to hear that.' she added softly, wishing she could say more.

Glad for a change of topic, she asked 'Yes, and what will happen in the past, anyway? How have you observed that there was a change to established history? What is this "hell on earth"?' Rampant moral degradation and bad manners, apparently.

Father Simon: The Monsignor quickly informs you of the details. It seems the relic is a finger bone of St. Lawrence of Rome, rumored to bring about numerous miracles, though the Monsignor has yet to discover if this claim is accurate. There are also a handful of people with access to his offices, though he has a hard time believing any of them would steal the item.

Colin: You find the answers from your middlemen to be fairly similar during your questioning. Several boys have been missing for about a week or two and more go every day. They seem to be nervous at the accusations as they have no way of proving your theories wrong and they fear you won't believe them. As you leave yet another meeting with a man who has no answers, you see a girl of about thirteen, obviously a street urchin herself, waving you over. She looks nervous and afraid but determined nonetheless. You lookin for the lost boys? I can help! She says in a low voice, as if afraid of being overheard.

Penny/Kate: Sam puts a comforting hand on Kate's shoulder, giving her a tight lipped smile of sympathy. Dean becomes a bit intense as he points a finger at you and says firmly, Hey Kate. YOU are awesome. He is a tool and he's not worth getting upset over. I always thought you could do better than him anyway. Sam nods in agreement and Castiel adds awkwardly, Yes, you can change the outcome. At least I hope as much. The past I mean, not your fiance's affair. He adds flatly and Sam gives him a look that is a mixture of horrified and scolding. The angel doesn't seem to notice for he continues without missing a beat, turning towards Penny.

 If anyone but Kate had gone with you, things would have been different. You can disagree as much as you like Penny, but considering I am an angel I can assure you I am the one who is right. He doesn't say it rudely but rather as though it is fact, pure and simple. An interesting man to say the least... Angels cannot see everything, but when the course of history is changed and humanity is plunged into slavery and hellfire we do tend to notice, even when it hasn't happened quite yet. I do not have all the details you would like, but I do know that something was altered that night and in three months time everything will change. You need to find out what Belial has planned and stop whatever it is. Because you created this course Kate, you will be the one to fix it, along with the rest of your companions. I can try to help you from time to time, but I cannot promise. He shakes his head tiredly. Time travel is...complex. And it would be unwise for me to be more involved than I have to be.

Dean turns to Kate. By the way, we just found out that we have a great something grandfather who was probably a member of the Men of Letters in 1890. Do us a favor and make sure not to get him killed or anything ok? He gives a half smile but you have a feeling he's not entirely joking. He pauses and suddenly adds,But don't get too involved if you do see him. We don't want some Kyle Reese Sarah Connor Terminator messed up crap happening, and being a Winchester, he's probably pretty irresistible. The half smile becomes a full grin. Yeah, but what if she's SUPPOSED to Dean? Think about it, if Kyle Reese hadn't impregnated Sarah Connor, then John Connor wouldn't have been born. So..... Sam gives Dean a pointed look. Dean stiffens, looking a bit stressed suddenly. Man I hate friggin time travel.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:27, Mon 09 June 2014.

Kate winced at Dean's little pep talk. It was the classic cliche words anyone would say to someone who had just been cheated on. She was a little embarrassed that Penny or the others for that matter were there to witness the whole thing. Heaven forbid she find out herself in private so she could clean things up neatly. Well there would be time to deal with Dalton later. Hopefully.

She listened to Castiel's explanation and plan of action with interest. It looked like she and Penny would be returning to 1890 sooner than expected. "I'm guessing you guys have a way to get us back again?" She and Penny might be able to figure it out with some research but that would take time.

The mention of a Winchester in 1890 peaked her interest. They could use all the help they could get. Though Dean was right, it wouldn't be good to get him killed. "I'm not going to get involved." she said making little quotation marks with her fingers. Hopefully Penny wasn't getting uncomfortable. Obviously an explanation of Terminator was going to be necessary later. "Time travel is a bitch," she agreed with a grin.

Penny could find plenty fault with the so-called angel's claim of proof by divinity, but let the matter go. 'Regardless, we are entirely justified in defending ourselves. And the Bentlies may have taken a few bullet-holes, but are yet capable of continuing their plans. I suppose the real change is that Mrs Bently will certainly not work with the Men of Letters now that I have flipped a dining table over her.' she mused.

She thought Castiel's suggested course of action over, and couldn't find any particular fault it. 'This doesn't really change anything. We still must thwart Belial and the Hand of Baal, only now we know which order to do it in.'

She listened to the rest of the discussion, bemused at the names being mentioned and whatever a "Terminator" was. 'Your ancestor is this Kyle Reese? I haven't heard the name...'

'Wait, if your ancestor was one of the Men of Letters, then do you have access to their records? They should be much expanded after 124 years, and we may determine how they— we defeated Belial and the Hand of Baal, and perhaps the identity of the spies within their ranks... Time travel could be an extraordinary tool to aid deduction and the solving of crimes, even for preventing them before they occur. I'm sure Holmes would love it.' Penny enthused, in counterpoint to the others' negativity.

Well unless you think you SHOULD get involved... Dean points out to Kate awkwardly. What if you don't get involved and we never get born? He turns to Castiel with frustration. Just tell me now Cas, she's not our great great grandmother or some crap is she? He almost looks afraid for the answer. The angel shakes his head. I can assure you, she is not. Dean breathes a sigh of relief. Good! Cuz I've had some dreams that would mess me up pretty bad if I found out they were about my friggin grandmother. Dean! Sam exclaims. What? She's hot! Don't tell me you haven't noticed. Dean accuses. Sam's eyes bulge and he gives his brother a look as though he'd like to throttle him, but he falls into an awkward silence. He seems grateful when Castiel answers Kate's question. Yes, I do have a way to return you. It will take me a day or two to prepare myself though. It is not easy and I have been weakened of late. He sounds tired.

As Penny mentions the Men of Letters, the Winchesters exchange uncomfortable looks. Sam is the one who eventually speaks, sounding hesitant to break the news. Penny, the Men of Letters are gone. A demon called Abaddon killed what was left of them in 1958. We didn't even know they existed until recently. Almost everything they knew was lost, but they did leave a safe house with some things that we have access to. We can take a look but I don't know if what you're looking for is going to be there. He finishes doubtfully. His face is sympathetic, clearly being the gentler of the two brothers.

Father Simon: The Monsignor continues to explain that his assistant is a Father called Father Jonathan Montgomery and the housekeeper is a laywoman named Mary Inchly. I hate to accuse either of them though. He adds. They are good people. Mary's family has volunteered for the church for simply years.

Simon shook his head. "We don't have to accuse anyone. We can simply ask questions and see where it leads, if you'll allow."

"I'm going to take that as a really awkward compliment," Kate muttered blushing a little bit.

It was good that the angel could return them and Kate was happy that it would take a day or two. It was nice to be back in the normal world even if it was only for a little bit. It would be fun to show Penny around and get her some normal clothes too. "Take your time," she assured Castiel. "I'm going to need a day or two to catch up on things. And I don't care what you say we are not going back until Penny has had a decent hamburger." There was no real snacking in 1890 and Kate was starving.

At the mention of the Men of Letters Kate patted Penny's shoulder apologetically. "I didn't want to say anything in front of the others," she explained. "And it would probably be a good idea to not mention it when we go back either." No one else needed to know the future of the Men of Letters.

Penny grew almost as uncomfortable as Kate as she discerned what the menfolk were referring to. She was shocked at how open about such matters that people were in this age, but she supposed it could make some delicate topics easier to discuss.

She was only a little perturbed to hear the fate of the Men of Letters, almost seventy years hence. She shrugged off their sympathy. 'I am not a member, and I haven't known them any longer than Miss Piper has.' she sighed, but grew determined to avert the catastrophe. 'But so much for preserving your history. Now you've told me, I simply have to warn Mr Westbrook now. They may make preparations, defences — at the least, they can leave this safe-house and records for you now. Abaddon may yet win, but we need not make it easy for her.'

Penny/Kate: Castiel frowns at the mention of warning Westbrook. I have to ask that you don't mention it to him. He says firmly. You two have already affected the timeline enough as it is. We have no idea of what could happen if you change it more. As I've mentioned, time travel is difficult business. We can't keep manipulating it every time something unpleasant happens. His blue eyes have a warning look about them.

As Castiel speaks with Penny, Sam asks Kate, While we're all in the same place for once, is there anything we can do? His brown eyes look sympathetic and you realize he must be thinking of Dalton again. We're going to stick close by until you leave again. Be sure to safeguard your room if you haven't already. We'll try to get a room close to you.

ooc: Wrapping up the night for you two. Go ahead and finish up here, let me know your plans before bed, etc.

Father Simon: The Monsignor looks relieved at the offer. I would appreciate that very much, thank you. I will leave this in your hands then. Mary usually comes in the evening to clean, you'll likely have a better time of questioning her then. Father Montgomery should still be around then if you want to question him also. His office is just down that way, third door on the left. He explains. Lily looks pleased at this as she's been a bit edgy at being delayed in your current mission. Well that would fit well with our schedule don't you agree Father? She says the word schedule with some meaning, as though implying you had best get going.

Simon nodded to Lilly, "Yes, I believe it would fit nicely. Monsignor, I apologize we need to go now and continue on another errand."

Once outside he took Lilly aside before hailing a cab. "These events must be connected. I do not know how just yet, but it cannot be coincidence that a powerful artifact was stolen now when our enemy is on the move."

Kate wasn't surprised at Penny's conviction to warn Mr. Westbrook. The woman didn't seem to be one to follow the rules even if it could change the future. She'd let Cas deal with that one.

"I think we are good here," she replied with a smile.  "The room is safeguarded for sure! I already went over it when I checked in but I'll make sure nothing has been tampered with. I'm going to run down and grab a few things out of the Jeep. And make a quick phone call... "If you guys want to keep Penny company for a minute. I think I have some extra pajamas if you want to borrow them," she said the latter to Penny and pointed to her bag by the chair.

OOC: Kate's just going to grab some of her "hunter items" from under the seat and leave Dalton a nasty voice message :)

'Like whatever happens in three months time?' Penny returned acidly, unwillingly to be dissuaded, even by an angel. To Penny's mind, 1890 was still the present time, and 2013 and 1958 and even three months hence were still potential futures, perhaps more substantial than a gypsy fortune teller's predictions but not yet graven in stone. To think otherwise, to set herself in the past and 2013 the present, denied herself and her world all free will and agency. And even before now, she'd always fought for that agency, to change what was established in favour of a better future. Why should she stop now? 'Why must we avert one catastrophe and ignore another? Should we not always work for the best aim, to diminish the demons' power at all opportunities? We could only improve your lot now.' However, the so-called angel's warning look, his impassive mood, and air of power gave Penny pause for thought, if only for her own safety. 'Very well, I shall be discreet.' Which wasn't quite the same thing as agreeing.

'Of course, thank you.' she acknowledged Kate as she slipped away for a moment.

Kate pm

Castiel narrows his blue eyes at Penny's defense. I hope you'll be more than discreet Penny. Your short sightedness could potentially cause a great deal of problems. If one woman like Emma could affect the future as much as it will, think what a whole organization could do? Don't let your good intentions cloud your judgement. He warns firmly. I trust that you will be wise enough to listen to me on this matter. And remember, I will be watching you. His piercing eyes are intimidating enough to make you think twice about his words, for the moment anyway. Before you have a chance to respond he suddenly disappears with nothing but a soft sound that for the life of you like wings. Momentarily alone with Sam and Dean they look a bit awkward as if thinking of what to say and they seem grateful when you slip away to change. The pajamas are pink loose pants with a stretchy waist band and a long sleeved button up double breasted top with a pocket. The whole thing has patterns of repeating bacon and eggs on them. Very odd.

Father Simon: Lily nods. I agree. In this business if something seems a coincidence it never is. Hopefully Mr. Templeton doesn't delay us long. She muses. From there you take a hansom cab to the estate that Templeton is working at. It is a huge sprawling house with vast gardens and a small pond with a pretty copse of trees. Very picturesque, though you cringe at the blatant waste of money. You are dropped off at the gate and as you walk down the paved pathway to the front door you hear birds singing and nature all around you. Such a pretty scene, hard to believe there is literally some manner of monster waiting for you. Remember now, you take the lead! Lily hisses, looking a bit nervous. I've never been very good at the acting side of hunting. She admits. I'm much better at the violent parts. By now you are at the front door, an expensive looking elaborately carved thing. There is a pot of red miniature roses on the porch and a lion headed knocker glares out at you menacingly. Should you knock it takes a couple of tries before you receive an answer. A slim tall man in his fifties answers, looking down at you with a look of mild distaste, particularly at Lily. No doubt such high places as these don't see many Indians. Yes? He has an air of impatience.

Simon took note of the opulence, as they made their way to the door. They rang the bell, and it was answered. "Ah, hello. We have come to call on Mr. Templton. We understand he is in charge of your household. We have come to collect on behalf to the poor. Would he have time to see us just now?"

PM

Colin smirked and leaned down at the little girl. He pulled a penny out of his pocket and showed it to her. "A penny for your thoughts, love," he said in a cherry tone. With a flourish, he moved his hand fast as lighting and a silver nickel appeared as if by magic. "A nickel if they're useful." He knew that would get her attention. He wasn't much good at lying and spotting lies, but money usually talked well enough for him. Plus, he was always fast enough to get out of trouble, hence why he figured he was still alive. He still had that smirk, but it had gone cold. His cherry tone was just for the girl's benefit. She might be a demon for all he knew. The boy had been after all.

At Castiel's sudden disappearance, Penny startled and found herself looking away, as if she'd caught a sensation of movement. But she only heard the soft flutter of wings. 'What an odd fellow.' she murmured, to cover for her surprise. He'd given her no specific reason as to why not to warn Mr Westbrook, other than not knowing what would happen, which she did not think was nearly good enough. All actions undertaken in the present were made with no complete understanding of the outcome, and this was no different. Surely she had as much right as any person of her day to do something that could affect the destiny of generations of people all around the world. Still, given such a powerful being's concern, she would think more carefully on how to deal with this threat from Abaddon. After all, they had some 68 years to prepare.

Penny stepped away to examine the clothing that Kate had offered, finding the peculiar-patterned pyjamas were not Indian attire, but sleep-wear. She certainly was not going to wear those in front of the men, so she soon returned still in her men's suit (she'd removed her bowler hat upon entering, but had found no hatstand).

She was left still with little conversation to make with the Winchesters. She decided to open with small-talk. 'So, how do you know Miss Piper?' she opened. It was "Miss" now, she assumed, as the engagement had surely been called off given the man's infidelity.

Father Simon: The man frowns at the request and squints at you as though scrutinizing you thoroughly. His eyes repeatedly flick to Lily with a sneer but after a long moment he sighs. Mr. Templeton should be about. I will see if he is available. Do follow me please. He holds a hand out to take your coat (and hat if you have it). You realize this must be the footman, indicating they are wealthy indeed to have both a footman and a butler. He shows you to the parlor, which is very grand. The exquisite furniture alone is worth a staggering sum. I must ask you not to touch anything. He sniffs, this is directed at Lily who looks to be barely containing her temper. With that he turns on his heel and walks out quickly and stiff as a board. Lily turns to you, her face a thundercloud. Ooooooooh I hate that man!!! She fumes. She stands up, making sure that he really is gone and then she proceeds to touch everything she possibly can, wiping her hands on the velvet furniture and rubbing against the walls. Oh no look at that. She says with mock dread. There's Indian all over EVERYTHING! Once satisfied she stomps back to your couch, her green eyes are fire. Please Father, PLEASE tell me we can pummel him as well?

Colin:
The girl sees the penny and nickel and her face does look tempted but the expression quickly disappears. Good sir, as much as I need any money I can get, right now I would settle for you getting my little brother back for me! She shakes her head sadly. I've been trying to get anyone to listen but they won't believe me! He's been taken by the witch on the hill! All of them have! I saw her with my own two eyes sir! She comes at night when no one is around and she offers them sweets and money and things. Then they are never seen again! I told Michael not to go with her but he didn't listen. He was so hungry and I couldn't stop him! Tears run down her dirty face and she wipes them away roughly. Please, you've got to believe me!

Penny/Kate:

It is Sam who answers Penny. We had a mutual friend. Bobby. He says the name sadly and you get the impression he is likely deceased. He was friends with her father. When he disappeared we went to investigate and discovered a nest of vampires. Kate kind of got dragged into it all and once she found out about what's really out there she was pretty adamant about becoming a hunter. Bobby gave her some training but she's always been pretty sharp anyway. His tone indicates he's impressed. She's come a long way. We don't see each other much, but we recruit her for some of the big jobs when we need to. She comes in handy. As he finishes, Kate returns from the jeep. Kate, you get the feeling they were talking about you judging by the way the boys both turn to look at you quickly. Well, you want to meet up for breakfast tomorrow? I saw a place on the way in called Fatty Patty's. With a name like that how can't it be good? Dean gives a grin but Sam looks less than enthused.

Simon grinned broadly at Lilly's antics. He did not like the way the fellow had treated her any more than she liked it. He even chuckled at her. When she came back to him he could not help but notice the pretty color of her eyes, and how her indignation made them even prettier. "Lilly, I promise that pummeling is on the table."

Lily looks delighted at the prospect and beams at you happily. Moments later a short portly man of about forty arrives. He is impeccably dressed in his butler's uniform and if it is possible he looks even snobbier than the footman did. I am Mr. Templeton. Neville said something about alms? He looks at you with distaste, not even attempting to disguise it. I can assure you, this household is quite generous already in their donations to the wretches out there in need of it. His eyes turn to Lily and her fist clenches. If the church is in need of more though I suppose I can look into it. What exactly were you hoping for? You note he doesn't address you with any terms of respect and there's something shrewd in his eyes you don't like, as though he is scrutinizing you suspiciously.

Simon reached into his pocket and then put his closed hand behind his back. He nudged Lilly with it and opened it, showing her a small bag of salt. If she took it from him it would mean she understood he wanted her to try to draw a circle around him while he kept the man's attention. "Well, sir, I understand that your household does indeed give much. Remember that Christ taught that God gives wealth so that the wealthy might aid the poor. Are you aware that a nickle can feed a man in one of the Church's soup kitchens for a week? Five pennies would be easy for your household to give, but God expects us to give more than we can afford in order to depend on him."

He made his way to the door and closed it behind him. "We would of course for your generosity, be inclined to name a pew after your family. Perhaps engraving your name on our Church Bell would be a more fitting tribute? Sure there is something the Church can do for you in return for this very generous gift..."

"I think I know where that place is," Kate said tossing a few bags from the Jeep on the floor next to the bed. "Sounds good to me! Not that 1890 food isn't good. It's just not the same, and I missed all the variety we have here."

Penny nodded to Sam Winchester's account, having little to add. Meanwhile, she continued her discreet scrutiny of the two men. The habits and occupations of the age might be worn upon their bodies and clothes, but were largely outside her experience. Still, the rumpled clothes indicated a life of travel and irregular ironing, suggesting a lack of motherly influence and a place outside society. Otherwise, she could read their posture and body language well enough. Although clearly the younger, Sam was taller, yet the slight hunch showed humility and unwillingness to stand out. By the way they arranged themselves and their patterns of speech, Sam deferred to his dominant older brother, yet he was not afraid to contest with him when they had a difference of opinion. Conflicted, though dependent on one another to an extraordinary degree. Sam appeared kinder, though disciplined and haunted like many a hunter. Dean, by contrast, was more aggressive, worm, but brighter than he seemed. And he was clearly an alcoholic, judging by the hip-flask and slight reddening of the face.

And, good lord, the father issues!

As Kate returned, Penny mused 'Hmm, we only had breakfast an hour or two ago. Well, it shall serve as lunch.' She was looking forward to one of these hamburgers and fries. She chided her friend, gently teasing 'Kate, you were only with us for a day and two breakfasts, and them only hotel meals. That is hardly much variety. Why, if we were in England, we could have had kedgeree or kippers.'

'Now, what kind of food do you have in the future anyway? I suppose now it's all compressed into tablet form and vitamin drinks?'


OOC: http://paleofuture.gizmodo.com...f-the-futu-510350651

"Kedgree and Kippers?" Kate wasn't sure what it was, "sounds interesting," she said politely. "We haven't reached the tablet stage yet," she added with a grin. "We still have to chew our food and all that. Did they really think we'd have tablet food in the future? Sounds nasty to me. I hope I'm long gone before that ever happens!"

'They're fish dishes, for breakfast.' Penny explained seeing Kate's confusion. 'Oh, yes, a whole roast beef dinner compressed down to a chewable tablet, or something like that, to save hours in the kitchen.'

'I suppose next you'll tell me you don't have powered flight, space travel, electric stun guns, or televisual communication.' Penny sighed, listing Verne's wondrous predictions. 'Well, the television and automobile are very impressive.'
This message was last edited by the player at 06:16, Mon 16 June 2014.

Father Simon: As you speak, Templeton listens with a haughty frown. Lily does indeed take the salt with a puzzled look but it doesn't take her long to figure out what you want. She watches him closely and starts to quickly and quietly begin the deed. As you speak though the man suddenly turns around and backhands Lily, causing her to drop the pouch of salt, the contents spilling wildly. The circle half finished, he begins to step out, his eyes suddenly black. A demon. Lily has been thrown back into a small table where she lands with a crash. She winces but gets up gingerly, pulling a hand axe out of her pack. Do you really think you could trap me? He snarls, looking furious. I'm going to make you watch when I strip the flesh from her body. ooc: Go ahead and roll initiative, your first attack, and also a general saving throw. I will add the modifier once I decide what to attack you with. Let the fight begin!

Penny/Kate: ooc: I love the father issues comment! Hilarious!

Sam and Dean listen to the exchange mutely. When there is a pause in the conversation Dean pipes up. Well, you two probably want to get on with your girly talk, so we're gonna head. We won't be far so if anything happens you know what to do. I'm thinking meet at the cars at 8. Might as well try to get a few hours of sleep anyway. Looking at the clock you see he is right. It is already nearly three o'clock in the morning. Of course neither one of you are tired in the least due to the difference in time from where you came. Dean though, looks exhausted, though you have a feeling it is from far more than just physical sources. They start to go but he turns suddenly and says, By the way, bacon beats fish for breakfast every time. Brits! He shakes his head. Sam gives an apologetic wince and wishes you goodnight.

ooc: Just want to know plans for that evening before I move along to the morning! You know the drill! :D

"Fish for breakfast... really? Kate was trying to imagine how fish could be a good way to start out the day.

Well I guess we have some dehydrated food you can add water to, but it's not very good. But we have tv dinners! Oh and we do have airplanes and have been up in space," Kate said with a grin. "And we have skype which is kind of like televisual communication..." Kate flips open her laptop, she wasn't tired at all. "Here let me show you..." she scoots a chair over for Penny to have a seat and will spend the remainder of the evening showing her friend how to surf the internet and catching her up on history. The evening may also hold a viewing of some funny cat videos on youtube. "See you guys later," she waves to the boys as they leave.

'Well, good evening to you — or rather good morning, given the lateness of the hour. We shall see you as we break our fast.' Penny farewelled the Winchesters. Curiously, she didn't feel in the least tired. For her, it was still early in the day, not the small hours of the morning. This would give her plenty of time for research and watching television, though she imagined she would feel tired earlier in the day.

Then, as Dean argued in favour of bacon over kippers, Penny retorted 'Ha! You should try a full English breakfast, then: bacon, sausages, fried mushrooms, egg, beans, toast, a whole fry-up.'

Joining Kate at the other televisual device, Penny watched in fascination at the wonders she showed her, the advancements in technology, society, and culture, and the funny things cats could do with them. She was surprised to learn the device was called a "computer" — Penny explained that a computer was a person who performed mathematical calculations for a living.

At some point, she tore herself away to make the standard protections against demons: rock salt at the entrances, a chalk devil's trap on the ceiling above the door, and protective signs on the walls.

Later in the early morning, she got to some more serious research into the threats they faced: Belial and the Hand of Baal, events in New York circa 1890, and the Men of Letters, all aided by the extensive resources of the Internet.

Penny/Kate: You find nothing on the Men of Letters at all, which surprises you. Belial you find plenty of information on, but it seems to be mostly religious and mythology references, not much you don't already know. Information on 1890 however, proves to be interesting. It should be an eventful year from what you can find.... (http://www.historyorb.com/events/date/1890 - anything from March on would be a surprise). As for information on whatever is going to lead to this new apocalypse, there seems to be none, but then Castiel said history wouldn't be changed for another three months or so.

By the time 8:00 nears you have a proper headache from so much screen time. The future is stimulating to say the least, and definitely shocking in many ways. Some of the scantily clad women you see in commercials on the television are enough to make you gasp.

Should you take a shower you will find it to be highly superior to the few that you've seen thus far and the hot water feels lovely. It is at about 7:45 that Kate's phone begins to ring. Looking at the name that appears on the screen it says, "Dalton"......


Sebastian:

You look at the address on the letter in your hand. This must be correct, though the warehouse is in a somewhat abandoned part of town and the building is clearly uninhabited. Still, the area fits and considering the organization is a rather secretive one it does reason that they would use such a location to meet at. Before you can wonder much more, a thin red headed man emerges from the warehouse, looking around warily. He is a bit awkward looking, too tall and thin for his own good, but there is still a dangerous edge about him in spite of his almost comical features. A very strange combination indeed. He frowns as he approaches, still being very careful of your surroundings. Are you Goodhue? He asks quietly, looking ready to throw you out if you say no.

Slowly nodding in response as he takes in the rather curious appearance of the fellow who had just emerged from the warehouse, Sebastian couldn't help but wonder if this whole thing was actually a good idea. Certainly, these people did seem to know a lot about the strange events that had been plaguing him as of late, but could he really trust some shadowy organization that he knew next to nothing about?

But given that he was already here, he might was well go along with the whole thing. It was probably nothing more than some secretive gentleman's club, like the one his father frequented. Simply old men fabricating 'secrets' out of nothing to inflate their already swollen sense of self-importance. Absentmindedly tucking a loose strand of pale blonde hair behind his ear, he nodded once more before responding.

"That is I. Sebastian Goodhue, a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

After her shower Kate quickly dressed in jeans and a t-shirt happy to have her own clothes back. "Help yourself to anything you need if you want to borrow some clothes," she offered to Penny pointing to her bag on the bed. When her phone rang she saw the name and frowned. "I'm just going to take this really quick," she explained to Penny before ducking out of the room. Once alone she answered the call with a simple "what do you want?" After the message she'd left last night there was no need to be polite.

Penny's Internet search turned up little of note. On the Men of Letters, she found only historical information about the pompous old title, not the organisation itself. As for the demon lords Belial and Baal, she found only the typical old mythological references and the basics of The Lesser Key of Solomon and the Pseudomonarchia Daemonum, nothing new or noteworthy. Apparently, the old occult texts had not yet been "digitised" and put online, nor had much new been found. Sadly, society was still largely oblivious to the truth of the supernatural, hunters still worked beneath public notice, and fiends still preyed upon the unwary.

Penny longed to conduct a more general search: the history of the last century or more, or even the years directly after 1890. Oh, what she could do with that kind of knowledge of the future, to predict political movements, finances and the stock market, or at least impress people at parties. But Kate watched her too closely, and only the year 1890 was open to her. She tried to memorise some events, and was pleased to note Watson was writing many more stories about dear Holmes. Otherwise, her researches turned up tantalising hints of the future: civilisation, technological wonders, social advancement, alongside terrible warfare and atrocities. Certainly things were better than her own time, but not near as good as she'd hoped. Still, things were broadly looking up and looking bright. If they could keep improving.

Tiring, she explored the popular culture of the age, by watching programmes on the television device, mostly flicking through in a manner Kate termed "surfing". She found herself baffled and shocked by much of the humour and content. Holmes and Watson would certainly be amused to hear of televised versions of their adventures, some updated to the modern age or hilariously incorrect. Advertisements showed women cavorting about in "bikinis", scantier than underwear. Penny was scandalised — she rarely saw that much of herself — but found herself appreciating their confidence and the lack of need to wear a half-dozen layers. She found herself drawn to some handsome shirtless men, feeling strangely quivery inside and thinking of Sam Winchester.

Well, that was enough television. It was time for a cold shower.

'Yes, of course.' Penny answered Kate. She retrieved Kate's whole bag of clothes, then disappeared into the bathroom.

Sebastian: The red haired man nods approvingly, apparently a bit at ease. Do you have your letter? Can't be too careful you know. Upon examining it he looks satisfied. I am Frederick. If you would follow me. He looks around again and leads you inside the warehouse, which looks just as abandoned inside as it does on the outside. As you are looking around at the shabby, dusty interior, a woman's voice speaks from behind you. She is beautiful and poised but to your surprise she is black. She has a fierce pride in her dark eyes though and she looks at you with a defensive expectation. Mr. Goodhue, welcome. She says in a throaty voice. You were wise to answer my letter. However, before I inform you just what you have gotten yourself into, I should point out that I will be the one leading you to your answers. If the color of my skin or my gender is such that you feel you cannot show me respect and obedience then you should leave right now. She finishes flatly. It is clear that she is expectant of some judgement on your part.

Kate: Dalton answers, sounding a bit mumbly, no doubt from his jaw injury. Look Kate, it's not what you think! Those idiots just jumped to the wrong conclusion! Rebecca was just an old girlfriend I ran into who had too much to drink and she threw herself at me and I tried to push her away but suddenly I was being punched in the face! You have gotta believe me Kate. Why would I cheat on you? We're supposed to be getting married! ooc: Roll sense motive ;P

Penny: The shower is uneventful, though you find the soaps and shampoos to be delightful and pleasantly scented. As you finish up in the shower you suddenly hear the soft sound of fluttering wings again. Do not be alarmed Miss Penny. I just need to talk to you in private. It is Castiel's voice. A moment later his hand reaches inside the shower curtain, holding a towel.

All Sebastian's preconceived thoughts of dusty old men were erased by the sight of the captivating woman of color, the surprise of it enough that it took him a few moments to collect himself and respond; a rare occurrence given that smooth words were his stock in trade.

"Madam, when you have the insight into the minds of others that I do, it is quite apparent that all prejudice is baseless. That is to say, I shall grant you every respect and obedience that I do all others."

Kate rolled her eyes and walked a little ways from her room. "Don't give me that Dalton. I'm not stupid." Really she wanted to believe him, but he had been acting strange the past month or two. She'd thought it was just wedding jitters. "First off my phone hasn't been working and I have had zero missed calls from you. I'm almost two days late getting home! Even if I wasn't late there should be at least one missed call from you. Second I have photo proof so you can drop the lies." The part about the photo was a lie but she figured it would be enough to get him to spill the truth.

Bluff: 14
Sense motive: 21

At the sudden intrusion, Penny emitted a shrill squeal, before catching her fierce dignity. 'How dare you, sir!' she hissed through the shower curtain. She looked frantically about for a weapon, finding only soap and a shampoo bottle. Well, she could work with that if she had to. She snatched the towel from Castiel's hand, ensured the curtain was firmly closed, and began to hurriedly dry herself off. Unfortunately, the towel would not cover her from neck to ankle as was proper. 'Invading a lady's privacy, it's appalling. I would have thought better from one who claims to be an angel. What do you want?' she demanded crossly.

Sebastian: The woman looks surprised at your response but then gives you a slow, pleased smile. She seems to be used to a lot of prejudice and it is obvious that there is a great deal of relief from your answer. You may go Frederick. I'll be alright, and there's much I need to discuss with Mr. Goodhue privately. The red haired man blinks and looks at you as if unsure whether this is a good idea or not but after a moment he nods in agreement, leaving out the front door. Victoria gestures to a couple of rickety looking chairs, sitting down in one and offering you the other. You'll have to forgive the humble surroundings. Should our interview prove to be satisfactory, then I will arrange for better accommodations. She straightens her skirts, looking every inch a well bred lady in spite of her skin color. Now Mr. Goodhue, I imagine you are wondering just what our organization is about? Firstly, it is a very secretive one and you must not reveal anything I tell you to anyone. Secondly, the things I am going to tell you will sound...hard to believe. I only hope you will have an open mind considering you have already been exposed to many incredible things through your gift. Can I trust you to have an open mind as well as to be discreet?

Kate: There is an awkward silence on the phone at your words. You can practically feel the panic on the other side of the conversation and you sense he is a great deal more guilty than he is letting on. After a long moment he sighs and says quietly, I'm sorry Kate. I never meant for this to happen, it just....did. What can I do to make it better? I'll do anything. He does sound sincere now and there is a break in his voice.

Penny: Castiel seems unfazed by your outburst. I can assure you Penny, I have no interest in seeing your naked flesh. I waited until you were behind the curtain after all, that should suffice. Besides, I need to talk to you alone and there aren't many opportunities for that. He adds drily. I need to speak to you about Kate. I know you two have formed a friendship in the last couple of days and I thought you would be the best candidate to help me. Can I trust you to keep what I have to say to yourself? it is vital that you do.

"You want to make it better Dalton? Go jump off a bridge." That said Kate hung up and tucked her phone into her pocket. Her cheeks were flushed with anger and she wasn't ready to go back to the room yet so she took a quick walk around the hotel parking lot to cool off. It was almost a relief that she was going to be returning to 1890 so she wouldn't have to deal with canceling the wedding. That could be Dalton's problem since most of the people invited were his family and friends.

Any attempts he makes to call her again will be sent straight to voice mail.

'Your lack of interest makes no difference if I do not wish to be seen.' Penny returned acidly. Thank heavens I was doing nothing else in here. She wondered how Castiel knew her movements so precisely if he hadn't made some kind of observation of her, but decided to chalk it up to the professed angel's apparent near-omniscience. Could she truly have any privacy if God and his angels were eyeing her in shower? Sighing, she dried the water from her hands before doing her face — she even dried herself logically; if it should come to a fight right now, she'd need a firm grip and clear eyes and, frankly, a slippery body.

While she did, she processed the rest of Castiel's words. Kate? Well, at least it's not about me. He was putting her in a no-doubt difficult position. If there was something vitally important she needed to know, then she wanted to know it. But she did not wish to keep secrets from her friend or do her ill, while honour would demand she uphold her agreement. After thinking it over, she answered 'I will act in Miss Kate Piper's best interests. I shall keep no secrets that will harm her in their keeping.'

Kate:

As you are walking around you see Sam rummaging through the trunk of the Impala. He sees you and gives you a nod, walking over with a long sleeved button up shirt in his hand. Dean spilled a microwave burrito on his shirt. He explains with a slight eye roll. The only way I could convince him to change was if I got him a clean one. He shakes his head. Hey, are you ok? You look a little...ah. Let me guess, Dalton?

Penny: Not to be redundant, but as I mentioned, you are not visible at the present, therefore I do not see the problem. He sounds slightly exasperated. It is because you have her interests to heart that I come to you. He continues. For some reason Belial wants you both taken alive. He has a particular interest that I do not yet understand. My instinct is to try to keep you both as far away from him as possible, but I doubt that would be effective. He pauses. There...is something dark inside of her, I am unsure what at this time but it worries me. I doubt she is even aware of it, but I sense a taint deep within. I need you to keep an eye on her, watch for unusual behavior and report back to me.

All this talk of secrecy and the like had Sebastian's curiousity piqued, not to mention the fact that this organization had stated that they would aid him in seeking the answers he desired. He took the seat as the lady indicated, legs crossed at the ankle and hands folded in his lap. When he responded his words were noticably tinged with excitement, wondering just what it was that was about to be revealed to him.

"Given what I have already experienced with this 'gift', I do not believe that open-mindedness will be an issue, Madam. And as to the issue of discretion, I give you my word that I shall not reveal the slightest hint to anyone."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:36, Fri 20 June 2014.

Penny paused in her drying. The angel really was entirely ingenuous. 'Belial is a creature of perversions and wicked lust. It is not hard to imagine what he desires from us.' she explained, the discomfort and fear clear in her tone. To borrow a phrase from the 21st century, he gave her the creeps. For a moment, she wondered what tactics such a demon prince would try. She needed to speak to Kate about Dalton.

Penny was puzzled by Castiel's suspicions about Kate, not least because if the angel was to detect darkness in anyone, it was sure to be in Lady Darkmoor. The angel's senses left something to be desired if they missed that whole messy history and present. No, let us not think about that. Well, she'd dried her top half, but the shower gave little room for her to bend and dry her lower limbs. 'I'm coming out. Please, stand back, turn around, and face the wall. Not the mirror.' she ordered crisply, before peeking out of the curtain to check that Castiel had done as instructed. Penny slipped out behind him. She was no stranger to public nudity, but what happened at the beach stayed at the beach.

'What do you base these suspicions on? And how on earth shall I contact you in the 19th century?' she asked, leaning to towel down her long, sleek legs.

Seeing the monster react with such swiftness, Simon pulls his revolver and fired point blank. He also names the demon as his preferred enemy. "In namina Patres..."


19:12, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 8 using 1d20. save v ?
19:12, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 9 using 2d8+3. damage - holy ammo.
19:11, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 23 using 1d20+7. Pistol PBS.
19:10, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 9 using 1d20+1. Initiative.

Add +2 to all rolls as the demon is now his preferred enemy.

Initiative is now 11
Pistol Shot is now 25
Pistol damage is now 11
Save should get an additional +1
This message was last edited by the player at 23:15, Sat 21 June 2014.

Sebastian: The woman gives a pleased smile and extends her hand. Very good. I am Victoria Green, though you may call me by my christian name if you wish. I do not demand ceremony unless necessary. As for what I have to tell you, I fear even your current state of belief will be challenged when I'm through. The smile widens, though she also looks as though she's unsure how to proceed. Well, I suppose there's nothing left for it but to jump into the matter. Tell me....do you believe in demons?

Penny: Castiel does as you instruct, turning around and keeping his eyes on the floor. He wants more with you than your bodies, I can assure you of that, though I am unsure of what else he may need you for. There is a darkness in both of you that draws him. The difference is that you are aware of yours and Kate is still naive to her...issues. As someone who is experienced in keeping yourself under control I was hoping you could keep an eye on her. She may not be able to resist when the time comes to choose. He shakes his head, still turned away. As an angel I can sense certain traits, though I cannot tell the future in all things, so I give the benefit of the doubt when I can. Sam for instance had his own temptations. Had he been ended before he could choose we would have destroyed what turned out to be a very powerful ally. I would not take the chance of losing others before they can make the same choice he did. Keep an eye on her though, I worry about both of you but at least I can give you some warning. As for contacting me, the woman Victoria would make an excellent conduit. She is more powerful than you realize.

Father Simon:

Your shot hits the demon in the chest, though not in the heart. He snarls in rage and pain as he raises a hand and makes a fist. You can feel your heart start to flutter and there is a painful pressure as though he has your heart in his hand and is squeezing it. Fortunately Lily is there in a flash and she brings her hatchet across his back. It is not a killing wound but he certainly feels it enough to be distracted and he releases his demonic grip on you...With all of the noise it is sure to attract others soon.

ooc: take 8 damage please. Also, be sure to keep me abreast of your AC and hit points each round so I don't have to keep track. Next two rounds please! Thanks! :D

Sebastian's brow furrowed in thought at Victoria's question, leaning back in his chair to carefully compose his answer. He wasn't quite sure whether this was a test of some sort, or a genuine inquiry. But given that this group had promised that they would aid him, he chose to answer as if it were the latter and explained his thoughts on the matter as best as he was able.

"Demons? I am not sure even the Church believes in demons any more, at least not in the physical sense. Other than as a metaphor for extremely daunting troubles that plague some individuals, like alcoholism, I do not think I have ever seen anything that would give me cause to believe in demons. Still, the occult interests me enough that I have read quite a few sources on the topic. But, I suppose if ... whatever I am exists, it is possible demons and the like do also."

"I'm fine," Kate said with a shrug. Her conversation with Dalton had her a little rattled. "Dalton is going to be busy moving out of my apartment and sending un-invitations to the wedding. Glad I haven't had time to buy a dress yet," She tried to put a positive spin on things. "I sense obscene amounts of ice cream and alcohol in my future," she added with a fake smile.

Penny paused in her efforts as Castiel spoke of a darkness in her too, discomforted by the revelation — hardly surprised but wondering if her own thoughts had prompted Castiel. Could he read her mind too, her thoughts laid bare? The Ripper, Father, a dozen bloody murder scenes danced through her head. Controlling her own thoughts, she went on 'I shall keep that in mind, thank you.' she said plainly, not sure what to make of this. The suspicion was baseless, or at least, it had no earthly evidence she could examine. She'd have to remain observant herself, but that was business as usual for her.

Resuming her drying, she went on, keeping her tone casual 'Victoria Green? I've almost marked her a suspect. I don't suppose you can tell me who the spies are within the Men of Letters? It would make our task of stopping Belial considerably easier.'

AC 17 Flat 16
HP 35

Simon withdraws, taking a step backwards from the demon. He fires again. Then takes a second step and fires a third time.

Round 2, five foot step to withdraw from melee. 13:58, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 25 using 1d20+7. #2.
13:58, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 16 using 1d20+7. Attack #1.
(These rolls o not include the +2 bonus for favored enemy)

Round 3, another step out of range and another attack.
13:59, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 12 using 2d8+3. #2.
13:59, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 13 using 2d8+3. Damage #1.
(Again add +2)

Sebastian: Victoria gives an understanding nod. I can understand your disbelief. If I didn't know for a surety I would feel the same way. However, I regret to inform you that demons are very much real. So is pretty much everything else. Fairies, monsters, vampires, werewolves, all of it. Most people think as you do. That they are nothing but stories or myths. There are some of us though who have been exposed to the evils of the world, and we work to fight them. That is who we are. The men of letters is an old secret society and we have decided that knowledge truly is power. We know just about everything there is about the darkness that pervades this world, and we share our knowledge with those close to us who would do battle with this evil. They are called hunters and we have many who are part of our chapter, though there are plenty who know nothing about us and work on their own. I can teach you about your gifts, but in return I would hope you would join us in our fight. It would be easy to take such words as farce, but looking into her dark eyes you can see she is totally serious.

Kate: Do they have ice cream in 1890? Sam muses with a small smile. You may want to pack a bag before you go back. He pauses. Well I know how much losing someone can suck Kate. You just let me know if you need anything. I guess you'll be too busy saving the world to really dwell on it much though right? Suddenly Dean approaches looking irritated. How long does it take to get a friggin shirt! What are you-oh! Uh...hey Kate. He is wearing a white t-shirt with a big brown stain on the front. Must have been the burrito Sam mentioned. Well, where's this Penny chick? We almost ready to go? Bacon man. I need bacon. His joviality is a bit forced and you get the impression he is making an effort to cheer you up.

Penny:
Cas shakes his head at the question. Without getting closer to examine them I can only guess. Once you talk to Victoria though I can use her to gain access and see what I can detect. I could force her to be my conduit but I have no wish to upset her. I would appreciate it if you could let her know my intentions and explain who I am. Once you do that I can take over the matter. I am confident she will be agreeable. She is not anyone you need fear but I cannot vouch for anyone else. Be cautious. He informs you. Now, I suggest you hurry. Dean gets surly when he has to wait for bacon. Suddenly he is gone again, the same sound of soft wings audible.

Should you choose to look at Kate's wardrobe you find that the jeans don't fit you. You're too tall and they are just a bit too tight. There are other options though....ooc: Kate, if you want to have a bit of fun feel free to let her know what her clothing options are! :D I figured she wouldn't fit the jeans because looking at your character sheets you have considerably different builds. There's always leggings and things though if Kate owns them. I'll leave that to you :)

Father Simon: Your two shots hit and you can see he is bleeding everywhere. Lily is slashing left and right with her hatchet and she strikes him well across the side. You start to hear commotion in the rest of the house. People are coming.... Suddenly the demon flings Lily against the wall and she is apparently pinned there, her face contorted in pain as she clutches at her heart. You know the feeling well but she seems not to be able to resist it as well as you did. Drop your gun priest, or I'll stop her heart right now. The demon growls. Just shoot him! I don't matter! She counters with a gasp of pain.

She blinked, just for a moment, and found the angel had vanished, with only a soft fluttering in her ears. Quickly, she clutched the towel to her front, glancing around instinctively, but Castiel was gone. Inexplicably, Penny found she almost missed the angel's presence now. These stresses were too getting too much; she needed another treatment.

Letting out a deep breath, the tension slipping from her limbs, Penny relaxed as she had blessed privacy once more. She was still faintly irritated at the invasion; couldn't he have left me a note like a gentleman? Finishing up her drying, she contemplated Castiel's warnings. It wouldn't be the first time that a man of the church — was an angel actually a part? — claimed that women held dark forces, but she sensed Castiel was being rather more specific than that. What could it be? She turned to look into the mirror, both at herself and into herself and into the dark moor behind her. The family curse, she thought bitterly. Bah! There were no curses, no cults, no creeping horrors, she was certain. Certainly none Father had bothered to introduce her to. It was all just generations of people being horrible to others, and to their children. People with enough magic and power and aloofness from society to be especially horrible. Well, it ends with me.

To mundane matters, she inspected her body. Normally, she tried to ignore it, but the television and Castiel's intrusion had made her self-conscious. Once again, she checked her legs were still entirely healed of the withering spell. That left her plain and inelegant self, slightly too boyish and athletic to adequately fill a dress and be considered fashionable. Battle scars and needle marks, and that oddly shaped birthmark. A natural female body, entirely unlike the women in the paintings or on the television, rude to society. Time to cover it all up.

However... After putting on her existing underclothes, Penny sorted through Kate's bag of clothing, looking for futuristic clothes she could wear and blend in. Finding the two parts of one of those "bikinis", she laid them against herself and considered herself in the mirror, enormously amused by the scandalous apparel. Outrageous!

Given the height difference between them, Penny found Kate's trousers were a little too short for her, exposing more ankle than she was comfortable with, and the leggings hugged her legs too tightly. And Kate, as she'd well established, was not a woman for skirts. Thus, Penny put her own trousers from 1890 back on. Then she looked for a shirt. Kate's tops were largely those t-shirts, which Penny still thought of as chemises, underclothes. And, ugh, flannel. But did it really matter what sort of cloth one wore, whether there were buttons up the front or not? She slipped on a t-shirt with a colourful design. She still felt half-naked and exposed, parading around in her underclothes. So she quickly changed to add a singlet beneath it.

Emerging from the bathroom, Penny found the hotel room empty, Kate still absent. Not sure whether to be concerned or not, Penny sat in front of the television, watching morning programmes as she brushed out her long damp hair.


OOC: I'll let Kate decide what sort of t-shirt Penny's put on. :)

"Oh I will be packing a bag," Kate assured Sam. "As for the ice cream I will have to get my fill before I leave. The Dalton thing will wear off, with time..." She grinned at her unintended pun. Really there wouldn't be much time to worry about him once she left. And who knew if she'd be able to even make it back again! Or if they would be successful. No pressure here she thought with a frown.

Deans approach brought her out of her thoughts. The burrito stain was very noticeable and she wrinkled her nose. How can someone eat so much garbage and still look so good? It really wasn't fair. Kate had her own poor eating habits and her hips paid dearly for it. "Isn't it a little early to be hitting the burritos?" she asked ignoring his fake joviality. It made her uncomfortable to know people felt bad for her. It was awkward and she already felt like an idiot for being the last to know her fiance was a cheating scumbag.

"I'll go check on Penny. She was getting showered when I left." Kate made her way back to the room and found Penny watching TV. She was dressed in her own pants but had found Kate's brightly colored owl t-shirt to wear. "Looking good," she grinned at her friend. "If you want I can pick you up some jeans at the store after breakfast. I think we'll need to stock up on some supplies before we head back." By supplies Kate meant bullets for her gun, maybe even a new one for Penny, snacks, and a few other choice items. "The boys are ready downstairs whenever you are," she added. Kate didn't mention her conversation with Dalton but knowing Penny's deduction skills her friend probably already had an idea.

Penny was startled as Kate stepped in; perhaps Castiel had set her nerves on edge. Plus, she was practically in her underwear. 'Oh. I thought of Athena, goddess of owls, warfare, and wisdom.' she lamely of the owl-adorned t-shirt. She guessed Kate meant she was attired appropriately. 'Yes, of course, if you think it best. Though fashions seem much more flexible and varied in this age, I see.' A slight reddening around the eyes hinted at Kate's emotional state, and Penny could guess at the nature of the telephone call she'd received. Penny was polite enough not to inquire about it.

Rising, she switched off the television with the remote control device, still impressed at the gadget. She was less impressed at the state of the world she'd glimpsed on the news, however. Not nearly as much had changed as she'd hoped.

She fetched her bowler hat and donned it a faintly jaunty angle, then followed her to the corridor. Then Penny hesitated at the door, looking warily around for people, feeling inexplicably embarrassed to be going out dressed like this. Even outside, she shuffled awkwardly behind Kate.

Kate: Dean shrugs at the burrito comment. Couldn't sleep. This was a 5 a.m. burrito. He admits. Dean never was one to sleep well or long so it isn't exactly a surprise.

Kate/Penny: By the time you return to the parking lot you find Dean has changed and of course looks very good, albeit tired. He gives you quick directions to the Fatty Patty's and before you know it you are all at a booth looking at menus. For Penny the place is a great opportunity to people watch. The menu itself looks to be filled with heavy, greasy foods that have interesting names, like slop for instance...Dean sweet talks the waitress into making him a bacon cheeseburger at 8:15 in the morning. He also orders a side of bacon and a pancake. When his brother gives him a dubious look he says defensively, What? I had a craving! Sam orders scrambled eggs, whole wheat toast, and a side of fruit. ooc: Go ahead and place your orders guys. This is a really bad grainy menu, but it's the best I could find. And just for the record, I've never actually eaten here. I do have some standards! Also, please roll spot checks. You're going to need them...http://www.menupix.com/menudir...y/menu.php?id=901520

Seeing the men, Penny lost her nerve and quickly crossed her arms over her chest in embarrassment. This is ridiculous, she told herself. She was still wearing more than some people in this age. She reflected Kate had had it easier in 1890, no doubt feeling so overdressed. For Penny in 2013, she felt distinctly under-dressed. Her hat received more attention; the bowler hat was distinctly out of fashion. So, very deliberately, she lowered her arms to her sides and clamped them there. There, that's not so bad, is it? she told herself. No one seemed to care, of course. Maybe I should have worn a burqa?

Nevertheless, she was so self-conscious of people looking at her, and equally curious to see the future world in daylight, Penny kept a close eye on everything and everyone as travelled to the restaurant and took their orders. 'I believe Dean feels threatened by kippers.' she noted archly as Dean loaded up on bacon. Looking over the menu, and avoiding anything labelled "slop", she asked the waitress 'Ah, may I trouble you for the hamburger with Swiss cheese and mushroom and a side of fries? ...I hope that is appropriate for the hour; I recently arrived from England and am still rather "jet lagged". And I would like a cup of tea, milk first, no sugar. Thank you very much, ma'am.'


OOC:
21:18, Today: Penny Dreadful rolled 29 using 1d20+9. spot.

Simon looked at Lily, and despite her protest he was not willing to trade her life just yet. He hoped, though, he might fool the demon with an old cowboy trick. He let the gun fall to the trigger guard on his finger. It dangled there, waiting to be taken. "Go ahead, take it."

This is what I get for playing a priest...a terrible liar.
10:30, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 8 using 1d20+6. Bluff to Feint.

If it were possible for Sebastian to look even more shocked, he would have done so, but seeing as he was already rather flabbergasted by all the talk of demons it was a bit much to add fairies and werewolves into the mix. He would have suspected the woman before him to be addled were it not for a certain sincerity in her gaze that spoke of personal experience and a deep-seated loyalty to the cause she spoke of.

"I ... am quite at a loss for words. I should like to believe you, given that my gifts exist I am sure all those creatures could as well. But, and I do hope you'll forgive me for saying so, I think I'm going to have to take your word for it until I lay eyes on such beings with my own two eyes. But with that said, I doubt you all would have devoted your lives to something that you do not wholeheartedly believe in, and thus I shall endeavor to aid you in whatever capacity I am able."

Kate flipped through the menu and ordered Belgian waffles with strawberries and whipped cream. "I'll also take a side of bacon and hash browns," she added with a guilty smile. "Oh and hot chocolate please!" She looked over at Penny as the waitress walked away. "In 2013 most breakfast food can be classified as glorified dessert. The burger was a good choice" She'd been tempted to order one herself but the need for sugar won out.

Kate/Penny: Dean makes a face at Penny's kipper comment. Yeah....fish just isn't my thing. He suppresses a shudder. The waitress seems delighted at Penny's accent, noting how much she likes it. Just like on doctor who! She beams. Soon the food is there and Penny, you find that although it is a bit on the greasy side it tastes absolutely divine. Sam makes small talk as you eat, asking Penny about where she's from and how she likes 2013. He is a very nice young man it seems and he listens intently as you answer. During this time Kate, you are oblivious to anything shifty going on around you, and you see that Dalton is trying to call you again even after you let it go to voice mail. Penny, you see a man talking to your waitress in the corner. She looks a bit startled at him at first but quickly recovers and points in your direction. The man nods and grabs a chair, headed towards your booth. No one else seems to have noticed him. He is older, probably sixties and very thin and gaunt. He is in a dark suit and in one hand carries an elegant gold topped cane as well as a black leather briefcase.

Father Simon:

The demon laughs, though there is no mirth in it. You must be joking priest. You must think me stupid indeed if you expect me to fall for that. Now, drop the gun and kick it over to me if you wish her to live. As he makes the order suddenly the door bursts open to admit two men, both dressed in servants clothes, one has an iron fire poker and the other has a heavy candlestick holder. They look spooked. We heard shots! What's going on!? They see Templeton bleeding and pale. What's going on?! Momentarily distracted, Templeton releases his hold on Lily long enough for her to draw a pistol from her holster and fire at the demon's chest. Run Father! Her shot hits home and the demon staggers, having taken so much damage from you already. He is still alive but barely. The servants rush towards the Indian woman, clearly shocked at her behavior.

Sebastian: Victoria laughs. It's alright. You can call me crazy if you like. I'm sure you are thinking it. Don't worry though, you will be given proof soon enough. Why don't you follow me and I can appraise you of the situation? She leads you to a large rug and pulls it back, revealing a trap door with a ladder. It goes beneath the building and soon you find yourself in a tunnel with brick walls, electric lights and cobblestone floors. Clearly well constructed. Victoria continues to explain as she talks. Not only are demons real, but I'm afraid they are up to something, the extent of which I still do not know. There is a cult called the hand of Baal and it has many followers both human and monster alike. There is a second demon, Belial, he is very powerful. He claims to be a member of the hand but I suspect he has desires to take power for himself and he's using the hand to meet these ambitions. Either way, two arch demons is more than I'd like to deal with. Fortunately they haven't raised Baal yet, so we only have Belial to deal with. She sighs. As she talks you find yourself walking through several hallways, rooms and large living spaces. There are dozens of men and women all apparently members of the Men of Letters. They all look at you curiously but say nothing. Eventually you walk to a sturdy wooden door which she unlocks, admits you both, and then locks again. You find you are in a dimly lit room with several barred cells. A prison of sorts. Most of the cells are empty but two of them have inmates, a man and a woman. A third has a body, wrapped in a sheet. It is more than a bit disturbing. I am sorry to have to plunge you right into things, but the sooner you know what you're involved with the better. I won't have you making promises to us without understanding what you are getting into. You see that the floor of each cell is made of small bricks. In the midst of the brick are several painted bricks of vivid red, swirled about into intricate dizzying symbols and patterns. They are beautiful and yet familiar. You realize suddenly they are versions of heptagrams, which you have seen in your research of the occult. http://www.supernaturalwiki.co...68/Trapinbook122.jpg

Simon Shouted to be heard, "All of you, get away from her. In the name of God!" If that doesn't work he will fire once more with his pistol, to get them to scatter.

Penny decided to explain kippers to Dean — largely at the fellow's expense, given the sheer amount of greasy food he'd already consumed. 'Picture a herring, salted or pickled, then filleted and splayed open, like so,' She put her palms together, then folded them open like a butterfly, to show how the fish was cut. 'Served with a fried egg or the like inside.'

She was puzzled by the waitress's comment, nearly asking Doctor whom? but letting the question pass at a shake of Sam's head. After all, it would inevitably lead to explaining how she'd travelled through time, which could confuse matters further.

Finally Penny's burger arrived, revealed to be a stack of bread, beef filling, cheese, and sundry other fillings. 'Oh, it's a sort of cooked sandwich.' After carefully inspecting it, she took up knife and fork to carve it up neatly. She had in fact seen how other people ate burgers with their hands, and she wanted none of that. After a while, she gave her verdict, a trifle surprised, 'Well, that is rather nice. But I see what you mean by glorified dessert — your food is very sweet, even the bread.' Maybe that was why so many people in this age were so corpulent?

A little hesitantly, but politely, she tried to make small-talk with Sam, answering his questions about her time and returning her own questions about his, essentially comparing 1890 Britain and 2013 United States, separately both temporally and geographically. The conversation and the former talk of food had her feeling a little home-sick, wondering of what England was like in this age.

But Penny's attention was taken by the new arrival approaching their table. Noting the cane — uncommon in this day — and out-of-date suit and coat, she warned her companions '—And unless I miss my guess, this gentleman is almost as out of time as I am.' Or far, far older, she thought, surprised by her own observation. Gaunt yet balanced and capable, focused and confident and utterly superior. He reminded her of Holmes on a case and off the drugs... No, even Holmes had a sense of humour and warmth. This man seemed carved of ice and stone. 'Good morning, sir. Can we help you?' Penny asked. She would have doffed her hat, but it was already on her lap.

Sebastian's face breaks into an easy grin at Victoria's mirth; he would never dream of saying so to her face, but the whole situation did seem rather preposterous. He followed along after her as she led him to the rug, wondering just what she was about until the hidden trapdoor was revealed. From there on, it was like something out of a gothic novel; a secret underground complex filled with men and women researching demons and whatnot. He scarcely understood much of what was said about the foes they were currently facing, other than recognizing some of the names from esoteric Christian lore. Sebastian simply nodded in response to much of this new information, utterly unsure of how to reply to it all.

The prison portion of the institute however, was something else altogether. What had these individuals done to deserve imprisonment in this place? Had a due legal process been adhered to? Sebastian was just about to question something to that effect when they came to the room with the body in it. For that was unmistakably what it was, a set of human remains. This was all moving terribly fast, and the young man was not at all sure he was prepared to deal with witnessing a cadaver. The symbols engraved across the entirety of the room were curious, but Sebastian wasn't quite sure exactly what their purpose was. That seemed to be a recurring theme since he had met Victoria this morning; not being sure of things he once thought to be true.

"What is the purpose of these symbols? And...what exactly is under there?"

Father Simon: The servants hesitate to obey you but the pistol convinces them. They drop their makeshift weapons and start to depart the way they came, apparently thinking the butler's life is not worth risking their own. Lily takes the opportunity to grab Templeton by the collar, holding her pistol to his head and dragging him out the front door. You try one thing, just one thing, I will blow your brains out. You won't be able to stand another shot and you know it. Now get going. She turns to you. Lets get him out of here. We still need to question him before the police get involved! It doesn't take long to get out of the front door but looking up at the windows you can see enough movement to make you believe the house is in an uproar. Thank you Father, for not giving up on me in there. I may be ready to die but I'd rather not if given a choice. Now, do you see anywhere we can hide until this blows over? We need to get what we can out of him as soon as possible. ooc: Please roll a search and hide please

Sebastian:
Victoria gives you a sympathetic look before answering. They are devil's traps to keep demons in place. And that body was not human. It was a rare form of a vampire, his name was Nicholas and he murdered and ate dozens of people. I can show you, if you have the stomach for it. She says gently. But I understand if you'd rather not. I am truly sorry to be plunging you into such shocking things so quickly, but with your abilities you are in danger from the Hand if we don't protect you. They would use your abilities for evil and they would break you in the process. You need to know exactly what it is that's out there, before it finds you first. The sooner you know what's at stake, the sooner I can start your training. she explains. Meanwhile the man and the woman grip the bars of their cells and look at you imploringly. Please sir, help us! They're crazy! All of them! Let us out! Victoria glowers at them. Quiet! She snaps. She then hands you a piece of paper with writing in latin. Read this out loud and you will see your proof.

Penny/Kate:
Dean listens to Penny with a face. I'm sorry but that just sounds nasty. I wouldn't use the term 'splayed open' to describe food in the future if I were you. It just isn't pretty. He shakes his head. Sam looks on with amusement. At Penny's mention of the burger being sweet Dean protests. Sweet? Are you serious? That there is salty goodness! Here, THIS is sweet. He cuts off a part of his as yet uneaten pancake and plops it on your plate, passing you the syrup pointedly. The conversation with Sam goes quite pleasantly in the meantime. At the mention of this stranger though, the Winchesters turn to look, already on edge for any possible danger. Seeing the man Dean looks surprised. Oh crap. Well that's never good. Kate, you see him now. A tall, extremely thin older man with slicked back dark hair, a black suit, and a black coat that look to be slightly outdated. He carries a cane and a  briefcase as well as a chair. He puts the chair at the end of the booth and sits down, all stiff formality and a face that looks to have never smiled. At Penny's question he regards her coldly. Actually you've done quite enough. I am here to help you, since you've made such a mess of things. He puts his briefcase down carefully, turns to Dean and with a look at his bacon he grabs the plate from the hunter and places it in front of himself. Dean starts to protest but Sam nudges him and shakes his head. Come now Dean, after all we've been through I should think you could spare me a simple plate of bacon. The man says drily. What do you want? Sam demands, though the question is more tentative than aggressive. Really? You're not even going to introduce me? He turns to Penny and Kate. I am Death. Good morning.

At the intrusion of the slice of pancake, Penny shifted her hamburger away lest they touched. She couldn't abide getting her food all mixed up like that. She applied some syrup and duly sampled it.

*

Penny started in defiance at the gentleman's accusation of having "done quite enough", exclaiming 'Really, now!' before hearing him introduce himself. 'Death.' she said flatly, unable to quite believe it. Death was one of those entities she'd assumed was rather more metaphorical than vampires and the like. She didn't spy a scythe or skeleton, though the fellow was rather bony. Did this mean she was dead? It came as something of a shock. 'Well, I suppose I should say it's an honour to meet you, sir. Have you come to escort us off this mortal coil? Was it the food that did us in?'
This message was last edited by the player at 08:52, Tue 01 July 2014.

Kate blinked at the newcomer as she tried to chew her bite of waffle. "If you aren't here for us, I have someone you can visit," she said once her mouth was empty. The screen on her phone showed four missed calls from Dalton. Death wasn't at all what she'd imagined and apparently he liked bacon. She'd have to remember that if he ever actually did come for her.

Father Simon:
You look for somewhere to hide but have little luck. Fortunately this far on the outskirts of town you have a little time before any police will become involved. Still, obviously upset by their butler being taken at gunpoint, you can see a small posse of the household staff have started to congregate. Lily starts to swear but stops herself mid-word with an apology. Well this is very bad. We can't hurt them for being naive. Do you have anything you can use? I don't know much in the way of spells and the like I'm afraid. I suppose if it comes to it we can kill him and run. As much as i hate to look like a murderer, it would be worse to leave him alive and free.

Penny/Kate:

Death looks at both of you with an expressionless face. I didn't know you were droll. How amusing. His face holds no hint of a smile making his statement that much more dry. He takes a few bites of bacon, dabbing at his mouth with a napkin that he takes from Dean's plate after examining it for cleanliness. No, I'm afraid my presence here is not for my usual tasks, though I usually leave my reapers to do such trivial work. I have come to do quite the opposite actually, or rather to enlist you to do it for me. When you two sullied the timeline you created far too many deaths in the process. I take satisfaction in my work, but I have no desire to be responsible for reaping that many souls, especially when they were not meant to be collected yet. My reapers would put up quite the fuss. He adds with a sigh. So, rather than deal with the meddlesome outcome you two have created, you are going to fix your mistakes. He then lifts up his black leather briefcase and hands it to Kate. Since you were the one who screwed everything up as they say, you will be responsible for this. Do not lose it or I shall be very put out and I think it obvious that I am not someone you should irritate if you can avoid it. The Winchesters have listened mutely until Sam asks, What's in the case? Death turns to regard him coolly. Emma Bentley's soul.

Simon shook his head, "No, I used what would have been helpful earlier. I have the ability to exorcise him, but I'm afraid the police will be here by then. Are you sure we cannot take him with us back to...the Men of Letters?"

Penny pouted in irritation; first an angel, now Death. She didn't come to the future just to be criticised for her inconvenient survival by heretofore unknown supernatural entities. She threw down a napkin, having picked it up for that express purpose. 'Her soul? Now, really, what in heavens are we meant to do with that? Mrs Bently may have been a nasty piece of work, but I did not doubt that she had a soul. Surely taking it back would only complicate the timeline further? I do believe you should explain, sir.' In truth, she was covering her fear and discomfort at all this — angels, Death, the change to history, her shock at the future — with pride, bluster, and indignation like any good Victorian. Well, it would serve.

'And, if you wish to blame anyone for this, then consider the Winchesters, who sent Miss Piper to the crypt in the first place. Or Belial for carelessly leaving a time portal open for simply anyone to wander in. Everything since has been an inevitable course of events.'

Father Simon: Lily frowns, thinking hard as time is running out. We can try at least. Question him before you exorcise him, though his host will likely die when you do unfortunately, what with all the gun shot wounds we filled him with. Ask Victoria, she may be able to do something. In the meantime I will distract them. The stables are behind the house, get a horse and head back to base. Don't worry about me either, I'll be fine. At that point, when you have finished responding she will sprint out at the posse, gun out and face set in determination. She yells at them to stay where they are, all the while motioning towards you to frantically get going.

Penny: Death arches an irritated eyebrow at you. My but you are the testy one aren't you? I have already mentioned that Miss Piper is more to blame than yourself so you may contain yourself now. He sniffs archly. As for the Winchesters, I am used to them making a mess of things. But in spite of their rough patches they always come through in the end. I hope you two will do the same. Now, if you're quite finished with your little tantrum, I will explain what you are to do. He looks at you as though talking to a child, waiting for you to calm yourself. Once satisfied he continues his explanation. If you think Belial left the portal open carelessly you are wrong. He very much knew what he was doing and how the course of events would unfold. Yes, this is all his fault as you say, but Kate will fix it nonetheless. I suppose your involvement is optional Lady Darkmoore. He shrugs. And yes, believe it or not Mrs. Bentley does have a soul. You will put it back into her body, which you will need to track down. I am sure your quaint little society can help you find it. She won't be pleased when you revive her, but you will need to convince her to help you. She is an evil thing but she knows what she's doing. He proceeds to pop a portion of bacon into his mouth and chew politely, waiting a response.

'We English are firm in the face of Death, sir. But please forgive me, and please continue.' she invited, returning to the reliable old standby of plain good manners. Penny's strong will had served her well against the demands of her father, all arrogance, expectations, and spite. Thus she was hardly unused to Death's cold superiority, though she could respect his well-earned right to such airs. Penny carefully sliced off a piece of hamburger and chewed on it thoughtfully as Death went on. Penny felt responsible for Kate, a fellow woman out of time, her friend, so of course she'd argued in their shared defense. Everything they'd done they'd done together thus far.

Darkmoor?! Well, of course he knew. Swallowing her mouthful, she answered 'To borrow from the modern vernacular, I "have Kate's back". I will certainly be involved.'

'How are we to put Emma Bently's soul back in her body?'

Simon took her by the arm, lightly. "I am going to bless you. Lilly I am not giving you last rights, so you had better not do anything foolish. draw them off, loose them, then rally, understand?"

Cast Bless on Lilly

He drug the demon to the barn and managed to get him up on a horse. He mounted and lead the horse quickly back to the warehouse that held the Men of Letter Head Quarters.

Staring down at the sheet-covered body, Sebastian had doubts whether his curiosity was strong enough that he wished to see what lay beneath. When Victoria made her explanations, he nodded absentmindedly and muttered to himself more than the young lady accompanying him.

"Vampires, of course. Perhaps that might wait until after we have completed ... whatever this task consists of."

The prisoners called out, just as one might expect those who had been captured by lunatics to do, which somewhat raised Sebastian's suspicions. It all seemed a tad too perfect to be genuine, like a theatrical performance. Were he not otherwise occupied, he could have given them some tips as to make their deceptions more believable. As it was, he simply read the words from the piece of paper, his latin decent enough that the pronunciation was correct, but he only understood the general jist of the thing; it was an exorcism.

Penny/Kate: Find her body. It must be complete so make sure nothing important is missing. I have made the process simple for you. All you have to do is put the case next to her and open it. The soul knows where it is supposed to go, at least when the death is this fresh. You would have to be a complete fool to screw it up, and though you two have made a muck of things I don't think you are fools. Do not prove me wrong. He gives you a dark look. Oh, and I recommend binding her before you restore her. She wasn't exactly a fan of you two.

Father Simon: Lily accepts the blessing with her brilliant smile and thanks you with a quick hug, which takes you by surprise. Understood Father. See you soon! She then proceeds to lead them on a chase, giving you time to escape. The way back to base is fortunately uneventful, though the demon does taunt you quite a bit. He seems confident that he will be out of your custody soon. He does not even try to hide the fact that there is a mole and he finds it amusing that you are going through the trouble to capture him when he will apparently be free within a day. You've only inconvenienced me priest. When I get out I will find that little squaw of yours if she's still alive. There's a big market for human flesh in the Hand. There's always something that's eager for its next meal. He laughs.

Sebastian: Victoria gives you a sympathetic nod. The prisoners start to panic when you read the exorcism and to your horror their eyes turn black and they begin to scream and rage. Suddenly the description of them as demons doesn't seem so farfetched... It is distracting enough that you lose your place for a moment and then Victoria puts a hand on your shoulder. That's good enough for now Sebastian. I will finish the ritual later. I do have a few more questions for them and exorcisms can be tricky until you practice. I will give you plenty of opportunities later, if you feel you are up to it. As she speaks the pair pants as if in pain, eyes still black they watch you with sneers of hatred. The woman begins to speak.A new recruit eh Victoria? We are to be training for the newest member? You can send us back to hell if you think it will do you any good, but Baal moves quickly. Soon hell will be on earth and when it is I will personally peel your face off myself. I'd wear it for amusement, but I think the skin is a bit too dark to be fashionable... She laughs. Victoria glares and the woman suddenly gives a gasp as the sound of a slap is heard. Her face is red as though she were struck, but you saw no such thing. Victoria was not lying about her gifts apparently.

Penny frowned, wondering if she'd missed part of the account in all this. It was frustrating when a client didn't share all the pertinent facts. 'Mrs Bently was quite alive last we saw her, gunshots notwithstanding. Does this mean we are to slay her before restoring her soul, or is this a preventative measure in the event that Belial or his forces succeed in killing her?'

Simon had heard most things from demons before so its chiding, while colorful did not breach his stoney exterior. Once they return to the MoL HQ he drug the sorry thing in and tied it to a chair. He sent for Victoria, to help patch him up and help with the questioning. While waiting he began. "Tell me your name demon. A clever demon like you, one who will surely be free of me in mere hours, should have no problems telling me his name."

Kate drummed her fingers lightly on the case she'd been given. "So you are telling us that Mrs. Bentley is important enough that her death is what ruins the future?" She frowned doubtfully. "As much as we wanted to we didn't kill her. Who did and do you have any tips on how to find the body?"

She tucked the case under the table wondering if it would be too much to ask for Death to put the soul in a backpack or purse for easy transportation.

Kate/Penny: Death dabs his chin and fixes you with a slightly frustrated expression. Well I can see that fool Castiel did a fine job of filling you in. He says drily. Yes, Mrs. Bentley is very much dead. We reaped her soul just yesterday. He gestures to his case again. It would seem that Belial was displeased with her for disobeying his orders not to harm you. She paid a hefty price. He gestures then for the waitress to bring him coffee, which she does. He takes a deep swallow and then continues. You won't have any trouble finding the body. Well, part of it anyway. As I mentioned, Victoria will help you find the rest. Just don't lose anything! He adds with emphasis.

Father Simon: You are shown to a chamber with a devil's trap already inscribed on the floor, making your job a great deal easier. One of the members assures you he will find Victoria as quickly as possible. In the meantime the demon laughs at your question. You think to exorcise me? Go ahead if you want. You don't need my name for that, but it won't do you any good. I'll be back on the streets in a new meat suit within days. He sneers. And the first thing I'm going to do is rip out that Indian's throat. If she survives the posse after her that is.

As Sebastian spoke he could feel something building, a palpable energy in the air, like the oppressive closeness before a storm. It was only when the demons, for that was surely what they were, began to shriek that he realized where that force was being directed. They appeared utterly human, other than the pits of blackness that were their eyes, a feature Sebastian found most disturbing. As Victoria said, he did indeed have his proof, though he would have liked to have seen what would happen had he continued with the exorcism. Their words were vile, and just what Sebastian would have expected from a spawn of Hell, had he though to imagine it. Victoria's display of power was quite impressive, and markedly different to how his own gifts presented themselves.

"Of course. Should you require them more amenable to your inquiries, I would be interested to see if my talents are as effective on their kind as with human beings."

Kate wrinkled her nose"So we are going to go back to find Mrs. Bentley's body...pieces...and put her soul back. Then she is going to help us save the future," She shrugged and took another bite of her waffle. "Should be fun."

Mrs. Bentley was not going to be happy to see them that was for sure. Kate hoped that the witch woman would see putting her body back together and reuniting it with her soul as a nice favor. The last thing Kate wanted was to spit up some more pins or worse.

'Yesterday, 124 years ago, I take it?' Penny inquired, wondering at the meta-temporal implications. Did Death exist out the normal flow of time? Well, she would not be surprised. Would the same amount of time that they had spent in 2013 have passed back in 1890? They might have rather less time than she'd imagined. 'And what happened to Richard Bently? We may have to contend with him if we are to take his wife's body.'

'For that matter, why should we do this?' she asked, growing alarmingly defiant again. 'We all suffered hard to bring that murderous villainess to her doom, and I don't desire to go through that again. Why don't we try to learn how she defeated Belial and do so ourselves? Otherwise, we are only exchanging the threat of Belial for the threat of Baal, and I can't say one is any better than the other.'

Kate/Penny: Death gives a small smirk, the closest he is likely to come to a smile. Yes, 124 years ago Penny. I speak in your temporal terms to make it easier for you but I can certainly do the math if you wish. He says drily. Richard Bentley will give you trouble certainly, but not because of his wife. His loyalties are actually to Belial. Who do you think ratted her out as they say? He arches an eyebrow. If you don't wish to help Penny, as I said before it can be done without you. I do wish you'd stop being on the fence about it though, it gets...tiring. His eyes are piercing and there is a flash of irritation in them. Her plan is complex, and even should you learn it you won't have the same kind of access to her resources. It would be considerably harder. If you wish to kill her again when you're done using her feel free. She may not make it easy but I'm sure the two of you can manage. As for Baal, you'll simply have to thwart his coming as well. Needless to say you have your work cut out for you. I suggest a great deal of delegation when you can, but be careful who you trust. I would keep it to your inner circle for the time being.Now, any final questions or do you still have some belligerence you need to get out? This final remark is directed at Penny.

Sebastian:

Victoria gives a smile at your comment, sizing you up with a thoughtful expression. Well I suppose this is as good a time as any to test out your abilities, if you are up to it at the moment that is. Then you may finish the exorcism when we're through if you wish. It may take some time though to get it right, it requires a great deal of concentration. Also, demons have powerful minds. They are not without their own telepathic gifts, though some have more than others. The more powerful the demon the more it can delve into your thoughts, though there are ways to prevent that. These two are common soldiers so they shouldn't be too difficult to deal with, but keep in mind they will be harder to penetrate than a human would. If you wish go ahead and see what you can discover. She offers with a gesture. The demons look at you warily, you can practically feel them trying to wall their minds from you.

'I simply desire the facts, all of them. Knowing the entire situation is vital if we are to build a case or a battle-plan. To quote a friend, we cannot make bricks without clay.' Penny explained gently. That friend was Holmes, of course. 'But apart from needing to now undo all our good work, we are little the wiser for all this, bar our knowing where our enemies' allegiances truly lie.'

'Well, regardless, it seems we are left with little choice but to attempt what you suggest.' she acquiesced to Death, hardly willingly. 'I may have further belligerence to work out, but my tea and hamburger are getting cold.'

Simon looked at the Demon with pity. "No, actually I had something else in mind for you. I have cast many of your kind from human hosts before, but I have never tried giving one of you Last Rites. Someone..alerted me to the fact that you are here on Earth for a reason, and perhaps that reason is the chance at redemption. I would like to grant you that opportunity."

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/05716a.htm

Simon takes a small vial of anointed oil from his bag. He dabs some on his fingers and moves to put it on the demon's eyes.

Sebastian stepped forward, a pleasant smile evident on his face, though tinged with something not altogether wholesome. Hands clasped behind his back, he stared intently at the demon in the female body, not moving a muscle or speaking a word. Slowly, an audible hum began to build up in the room, a faint trickle of sound that could be felt more than heard. He pushed his consciousness out of his own body, trying to force into the vessel of the demon and impose his will upon it. But with this technique it was more like a sly nudge than an outright shove, you were trying to trick their mind into thinking it was their idea all along. His voice was polite and measured when he spoke, almost as if he was confiding a secret to the demon, looking up at it though his long lashes.

"If you just tell me what you need to know, I can get you out of here. It'll be so quick and easy, and cost you next to nothing. Just tell me."

Father Simon: The demon recoils when you approach him, swearing savagely. What are you doing?! Stay away from me priest. Whatever you're doing won't work, you're wasting your time. You might as well just exorcise me, I have no soul to save. He snarls.

Kate/Penny:
Death gives Penny an unreadable look before wiping his fingers on a napkin. Well, I've given you your instructions. If you want to fret about them that's up to you. I highly suggest you complete them though, otherwise I will have to become more directly involved and you don't want that. Now,find Emma. Put her back together and help her until it becomes more beneficial to kill her. he shrugs. He stands to go. Don't lose that no matter what. You get one chance from me, I won't be enticed back just because you were careless. He nods to Kate then turns to the brothers. Nice to see you again Winchesters, especially since for once neither of you were whining at me for something.

Sebastian:

You can see the demon look suspicious at first but her eyes narrow in thought until at last she says, Can I really trust you? What is it you want to know exactly? Her companion, the male demon starts to protest but Victoria turns her head and he suddenly stiffens, as if unable to move. The female barely notices. Ask her about Nicholas if you would please. Victoria asks you quietly. Should you do so the demon makes a face. You didn't have to kill him. He said he was promised amnesty. I hope you take better care of me than you did him. She accuses. Serves him right though I suppose. He was sloppy. Left too many bodies. Belial will be unhappy when he learns what you did to his pet. She gestures to the body on the table. You notice that Victoria's face looks ever so slightly upset at the mention of Nicholas but it quickly becomes a smooth mask again. You can't help but wonder why he would be such a sore point for her.

As Death rose to leave, Penny stood, as was polite. 'I apologise for any ill-temper on my part, but needs must when the Devil drives... Well, it was an honour meeting you, Mr Death. I do wish it could have been under more agreeable circumstances, but forgive me, but I do hope not to meet you again for an exceedingly long time.'

Simon ignored him and began the ritual by anointing the demon's eyes, nose, lips, and ears. He dabs a bit on the hands and feet as well. He then lights several candles to be sure not to loose the light while he reads. He then began reading the sacrament known as Last Rites.

Quite surprised that it had actually worked, Sebastian glanced back at Victoria to see if there was anything else she wished to ask. He didn't really understand the sorrow that shadowed her face when the man Nicholas was mentioned, but supposed that whatever someone might have been it was only right to feel some remorse at their passing.

"Catch you later," Kate said to Death with a simple salute. She hoped it was a long time later. Who knew how things were going to go down when they got back to 1890.