Colin:

The night air is chilly and the rain is certainly not helping matters. You walk down the street, struggling to light a cigarette in such wet conditions. At last you manage, but that doesn't shake the feeling you are being watched. It is well past 11:00 by now, and most sensible people are in for the night. Even the more unsavory people that walk the city this time of night have had the sense to go home. Not you though. You've heard too many tales of disappearances of late. Mostly amongst the poor in the cheap side of town. The poor were always the first to go, after all who would miss them? The numbers have increased of late, so much so that even the police have started to take notice. A serious situation indeed if the coppers have taken an interest in the plight of the lower classes. And so you keep walking, in spite of the cold and the rain and the late hour. The last disappearance happened not far from here. If there are any clues, the rain may have washed them away, but then why this feeling of being watched? You stop and look around you and between the rain and the dark you almost miss him. But there he is. A tall dark figure across the street and in an alleyway. It's impossible to see his face clearly, but he is standing perfectly still, staring at you.

Kimi:

You sit in your room still feeling a bit irritated. The headquarters of the New York Chapter of the Men of Letters was surprisingly well furnished considering it was underground. You have a fine soft bed, a beautifully carved dresser and vanity, and even your floor has a plush thick carpet. Westbrook made sure as always you were taken care of. It was a bit frustrating considering you owed him your life and here he was treating you so well on top of it all. It was enough to think you would never have the chance to repay him. You lean back against the pillows, though sleep is the last thing from your mind right now. How dare he invite Ian to the meeting and leave you out of it! Did he trust Ian more? The Scotsman was certainly capable, and a fine man at that, but you were his assistant. You were his bodyguard. How were you supposed to protect him if he didn't let you near him? "I have other needs for you." He'd said matter of factly. But of course he had not elaborated. The man kept secrets for as long as he possibly could. It was enough to drive one to frustration. The hour is late. You should be asleep, but your thoughts and mood have decided otherwise. To your surprise, you hear a soft tap at the door. It is Nicholas, a fairly new recruit to the Men of Letters. A bookish sort of lad, he always seems to be nervous about something, though what you can't imagine. Miss Noriko? He says the name awkwardly. I'm sorry, did I wake you? I-j-just need a minute of your time. He is blushing for some reason.

John Grant:

The streets of New York City are fairly silent this time of night. It's taken you longer to arrive than you had planned and you're a bit irritated at how hard it is to find this place. You are definitely not used to such big cities, and it has been difficult to maneuver with so many streets and shops and people. The rain drips on the letter as you pull it out again. It reads,

You have been selected. The time has come for your skills to be called upon. Signs are upon us. You are needed. Come to W 318 Pennbury Ave on the night of February 2nd at 10:30 p.m. to obtain your orders. Should you choose to decline this invitation that is your right, but the world may be forfeit. Cordially yours, The Men of Letters New York Chapter, Mr. John Westbrook.

You've heard about such organizations, but at this point you still know very little of them. Still, the fact that they tracked you down to send you this letter intrigues you. You find the address at last in the form of an old warehouse that looks to be abandoned. By now you are a good 45 minutes late. The door is locked upon closer inspection, but a figure across the street suddenly steps out of the shadows. It is a woman, dressed simply in a blouse and skirt. Her proud nose and tan skin identify her as an Indian, though her English is flawless as she says You're late. I'm assuming you must be John. She fixes you with a disapproving look. She's pretty, in a hard way. You get the feeling she has a temper though and she does not look to be the demure acquiescing type that society was so keen on turning women into these days. Are you always this unreliable, or is it only when the fate of the world is at stake?

Colin sneered at the man over his cigarette. It was never normal with this hour. Always creepy, always unsettling. He pointed at the man with his middle and index finger, the cigarette clamped between them. His other hand slipped by his side to the knife there. "Oi! We have a problem, boyo?", he said in his suitably heavy accent. The Irishman had never let his native accent slip during his times in the United States. While he wasn't sure the current man was who he was looking for, he was a good candidate.

Kimi pulled her silk robe up around her shoulders and body.  She bowed slightly. "Yes of course.  Please, enter."  She stepped back in small steps to allow the door to open, and let the boy in.  "Please make yourself com-fort-able.  Would you like tea?"

Kimi's (Keemee) long black hair hung freely as she held her robe closed.  She regarded the boy.

In reply to Artemis (msg # 2):

"Ah did mah best." The man replied in a heavy southern drawl as he adjusted his hat. "Ain't used to big cities and all their twisters and turns." He gave the woman a quick once over before his gaze met hers once more. "Yeh gunna let me in an explain what tha Hell's goin on here?"

Colin: The man does not respond, merely stares at you for a long moment, then he turns and backs into the shadows, slowly, never turning his back on you. He disappears around a corner quickly, but you see something drop at the edge of one of the streetlamps. Upon closer inspection your heart starts to pound. It is the remnants of a bloody hand. A woman's it looks like.

Kimi: Um-no t-thank you. He stammers. You get the feeling by the way he looks at you he has something of a spark for you, though he is the nervous type anyway. I just didn't know who else to talk to. If I'm wrong, I don't want to waste Mr. Westbrook's time. He shakes his head, pacing a bit. It's j-just, well, I think I saw someone acting s-strangely. They didn't see me, but they were acting suspicious- No. Nevermind. I'm sure I was just being presumptuous. S-sorry to have bothered you. He starts to leave as quickly as he came, but clearly the boy has some concerns about something, and what with Westbrook on edge about traitors, you can't help but be curious.

John: She looks you back straight in the eyes, her expression almost challenging. This is a woman who appears to have a chip on her shoulder. She actually looks a bit disappointed that you took her criticism so easily. After a moment though she seems to relax a bit and she gives a shrug. Well, I suppose some good should come from me waiting in the rain for an hour for you. She sniffs drily. Follow me. She leads you into the warehouse, which she unlocks, and after showing you down a secret hatch she leads you down a ladder into some remarkably well constructed tunnels. They have electric lighting and cobblestone floors. As she walks she talks, though you get the feeling if she had her way she'd be silent. Have you heard of Baal? Long story short, there is a secret cult that worships him and they are trying to literally put hell on earth. You, and some others like you, have been chosen to investigate and hopefully stop him. Sorry if this seems blunt or rushed, but you would have had the much grander presentation if you had been on time. She gives you a critical scowl.

"Mr Neekolus." She moved quickly. "I am hearing your concerns. Please speak." She did not touch him, but indicated a chair nearby. "We know that Mr Brook would not want things to be missed. It is our purpose to know these things, and face them." She looked concerned as she sat across from him, on her bed.

Colin grimaced at the hand as he moved closer. His voice was sad as he muttered to himself,"Looks like we do, boyo. Looks like we do." His butterfly knife came out in a twirling, practiced motion. He bent down, looking at the hand closely. If he was going to find out about this guy, he was going to need to study everything about the hand that might be relevant. He glanced around and made sure a street cop wasn't going to pick this time to come around the corner. Finding an Irishman with a hand of a woman wouldn't look too innocent.

In reply to Artemis (msg # 6):

John followed behind the Indian woman stooping when necessary to avoid bumping his head. "Ken't say Ah've heard tha name before. But it doesn't sound like somethin I want happenin. Though ah gotta ask, why me? What makes me so special?"

Kimi:

The young man does as you ask, sitting on the chair but looking mighty nervous. Well....I know I'm fairly new here so I don't want to falsely accuse someone if I'm wrong....but I was in the storage room sorting things like I was instructed. I was all alone for awhile, and as I was behind a big stack of crates, I was obscured from view. I heard someone come in, talking to someone else about getting a few things for a ritual. Something in me told me to keep quiet, so I hid and listened. It was a man talking to another person, though the other person was too quiet to make much out. They were keeping a lookout for him though and he took a few things and bolted. I did hear him say something about "this should be enough to get everything ready for the hand." The hand. That's what he said. I have no idea what it means but the way he acted sounded suspicious. I managed to take a peak before they left because his voice was so familiar. Miss Noriko....it was Ian Shaw. He finishes gravely. The hand. No doubt it was in reference to the hand of Baal, the cult that had Westbrook in such a worry. You knew there were traitors amongst you but Ian? You doubted that Westbrook trusted anyone more than Ian, except perhaps Victoria of course. The news comes as a blow.


Colin:

The hand looks like it's been gnawed on by some kind of creature, which automatically makes you think the figure you saw might not be human. No big surprise there. Her hand looks dirty, though if it were that way when she died or if it happened postmortem you're not sure. You do see calluses though on her fingers and palms. A working woman, lower class no doubt. You also notice a trail of blood leading down the ally way the figure darted down. Whether it is his or hers you're not sure.

John:

She turns and looks at you with calculating eyes as if trying to determine the answer herself. She gives a shrug at last. I have to wonder that myself. You certainly don't look like much. She says bluntly. But there was a hunter who vouched for you. Said he helped you get into the life. My employer, Mr. Westbrook must have taken him at his word. You see, we have traitors amongst us. Not sure who we can trust right now. Westbrook feels safer having outside help. Not everyone knows about all of this, so keep a low profile if you think you can manage it. She finishes drily.

Colin shook his head and rose from inspecting the hand. No sense in taking it with him. He would have liked the girl to be reunited, but that was unlikely. He twirled the knife again before heading off towards the mystery man. This shitehead was not going to get away with butchering working girls. They had enough problems. He almost snarled as he thought about the monster, whatever it was, chewing on the hand. He then had a thought that disturbed him. He had many encounters with the unclean horrors that stalked humanity. Which one of those cut off body parts and ate them? He wracked his brain trying to think of one while following the blood trail.

Kimi nods. "It is good you have said something.  I will approach the Mr. and speak with him on this matter." She stood, and moved to the door. "Please worry yourself no more."

Colin:

You quickly go through the usual suspects. The moon makes it unlikely to be a werewolf. Obviously not a vampire, or rather the traditional variety anyway, and it didn't appear to be any kind of demonic slaying as they were not likely to chew on people's limbs. You had a few ideas, but certain tests had to be done before it could be determined. You also had to find more of the victim's body in order to completely place it. In the meantime, you had a trail to follow. You do well at first, but the rain seems to wash away the blood after a while. The rain has picked up by now, and you are getting soaked. You are surprised to see a transient out in such weather. He is seated, leaning against one of the buildings across the street, seemingly asleep. Perhaps he saw something earlier since this appears to be the thing's hunting grounds.

Kimi: Nicholas gives you a relieved nod and stands up quickly. But please don't mention my name! I'd hate to be wrong and have Mr. Shaw angry at me for accusing him. Still, under the circumstances, I can't think that he would be doing something good if he were hiding it like that.... He shakes his head before bidding you goodnight and leaving. Many thoughts race through your mind. Ian? Really? It would explain how the hand was always one step ahead of the Men of letters, but could Westbrook's trust be so poorly placed? It was definitely worth investigating.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 19:01, Mon 28 Oct 2013.

Kimi dressed and gathered a few things to take with her, placing them in her small flat purse.  She opened her door, moved outside of it, and then closed it, locking it.  Then she moved into the hallway, and went looking for Mr. Brook (Westbrook).

In reply to Artemis (msg # 10):

John frowned as the woman insulted him but said nothing. He'd seen too much, lost too much, to let a petty Indian woman under his skin. "Tha explains it. Ah ken handle a low profile had ta all the time in tha rangers." He looked around the building they were standing in. "So do Ah get to meet this employer o yers"

Colin narrowed his eyes to fight off the rain induced vision restrictions. If he was going to find whatever monster was on the prowl, he would need to be on his toes. The rain was trying its damnedest to stop him. It would lose. He would not stop hunting. Not now, not ever. He dug for a couple of pennies or maybe a nickel. Even the littlest could help. He held up the money. "Penny for your thoughts,mate. Two if you saw anything." He proffered the two coins. He made sure the nickel he had also made an appearance. If the man thought he might get more, he might say more.

Kimi: You head down the familiar hallways, nodding politely to people as they pass. The chapter had grown so large that you didn't quite know everyone's names, but you weren't far from it. By now you are sure he is finishing up with the new recruits, but as you head to look in the usual places, you find he is not there. Irritated that he has altered his habits after so many years, you start to widen your search. Suddenly you slip on something wet and almost fall. You look down and are startled to see it is blood. A lot of blood. It seems to be coming from some loose bricks in the wall.

Colin: The man does not respond. He is either in a very deep sleep or perhaps he is sleeping off his drink. Attempting to wake him does nothing and you are stunned when his coat suddenly falls open and you see the reason he is so unresponsive. Most of the flesh on and in his torso are gone, apparently torn and bitten for there are signs of teethmarks. His innards seem to be missing as well and from the looks of it, this was a recent occurrence. His body is still warm.

The woman continues to lead you and nods at the question. Soon. Very soon. He is with the others right now and he hates to be interrupted. I will go and see if he is almost done. He's certainly had enough time by now he should be close. If anyone asks you, we are recruiting more hunters to try and help with the disappearances of late. Nothing more. She instructs firmly. You find that she has started to calm down a bit, no doubt because you are ignoring her anger. It gives you the opportunity to fully notice her. She is a beauty, albeit a hard one. Her hair is long, black and glossy. Her eyes are a deep green and her cheekbones are perfectly formed. Her nose is a bit on the strong side, but her full lips help to balance it. Many men would find her quite appealing, but she seems not to be aware of it. By now she has led you to a sitting room of sorts. It is well furnished with books, a desk, and a few tables that look to be used for study. She indicates a canter of brandy. Have some if you like. Warm yourself up. I will go and see what I can discover. She says it almost kindly, but her scowl returns a moment later, though it is not directed at you. She tromps off leaving you alone. All is quiet for a while until you see something across the room pooling on the floor. It is red and appears to be coming from the wall.

Colin let out a curse in Gaelic, then in Latin just to be sure someone higher up heard it. He hated this. Finding the innocent like this was the worst part if Hunting. He had traveled up and down the Eastern Seaboard, but every time he stopped, people seemed to die. He needed to end this monster's blood lust and fast. He placed a nickel in the dead man's hand. Maybe it would prevent him from getting a pauper's treatment. He took a step back and looked back and forth. He would likely never find the thing while chasing it. The poor man was still warm. That meant the monster was close. Colin walked into the street and extended his hand. He crossed himself while saying a prayer. The prayer continued as he twirled his knife and sliced his hand so that it drew blood in a steady stream.

Squeezing his hand, he let the blood flow free and pool around him. He turned, letting the blood circle him. If this thing was hungry and looking for food, a 'wounded' prey would look appealing. He removed a rag from his pocket and wrapped the wound. Let the bastard come, Colin thought. The blood should have some effect. It drew vampires in like moths, werewolves went into fits and demons just liked to try and exploit a weakness. Whether for hunger or bloodlust, the thing was bound to show. If he was close. If the rain didn't spoil it's senses. If Colin wasn't wrong.

In reply to Lily (msg # 18):

John nods at the woman's instructions as he followed her into the room carefully looking around as she talked. The brandy immediately caught his attention. John and Liquor were old friends, Mary had had to drag him upstairs to bed oon more than one occasion when a case went bad. But now the two of them were even closer, it was good at keeping the ghosts away. As she left he sat down and immediately pured himself a glass downing it in one gulp. As he sat there he tried to fight off the images, the memories that kept coming. It was always worse when he was unoccupied. He poured himself another glass and drained it in similar fashion. He shook his head as he tried to push away the images of his old life. He was about to pour a third drink when he noticed the odd pool gathering on the floor. He stood with a little difficulty and slowly walked over to the pool crouching beside it.

Kimi knelt gracefully to check out the liquid.  Once it was determined it was blood, she looked this way and that to see if anyone was nearby.  Standing, she looked at where the blood seemed to be seeping from.

Staying where she was, called out for help.  She did not scream or yell, but called out to see if anyone else was nearby.

John: You see it is blood, and a lot of it. Suddenly you hear someone on the other side of the wall yelling for help. It sounds like a woman, though she does not sound desperate, just in need of someone to assist her.

Colin: For a long time there is nothing. Then, down the muddy road, under a streetlight you see a figure approaching. It looks to be a policeman in uniform. He has his baton out and is headed for you quite warily.

Kimi: pm

In reply to Artemis (msg # 22):

John frowned as he looked down at the pool. Definitely blood. But what was causing it to come out he wall? The men of letters reputation didn't strike him as the type to have people in their walls, but that same reputation didn't suggest  them to be sloppy enough for spirits to slip into their bases. The ex-ranger looked up as he heard the cry and immediately stood a hand reaching into his coat as he headed into the hallway.

John, you follow the sounds of the woman's voice to the hallway and see a lovely Asian woman standing in the hallway. A pool of blood is at her feet. Most likely the same that you saw on your side.

Kimi: In answer to your call you see a strange man emerge down the hallway. He looks to be a bit scruffy and in a wet coat, clearly he's been in the rain recently. You are surprised not to recognize him. You know at least everyone by face. One of Westbrook's perhaps?

ooc: Alright, henceforth you two shall be in the same posts for now. Hooray! :D

Advancing, then bowing slightly, Kimi stands to the side. "I am sorry to disturb you Sir.  It seems there is a stain of blood upon the floor there.  I am hoping that you will help me investigate it?"

The man lifted one hand to his hat tilting it towards the woman. "Seems ta be getherin on tha other side as well ma'am." She could smell the alcohol on his breath but it was clear he hadn't had much. He moved over to the pool of blood and knelt down checking the area for any clues.

<orange>ooc: rolled a 7 total on the search check, the dice gods are not smiling on me.

Kimi wandered back with him.  The smell of alcohol had wafted from him, but she gave no indication she'd smelled it.  She shuffled forward on her geta, and then bent at the knee to crouch. "From the wall there is seepage." She indicated but did not touch it.  "I am thinking to remove the bricks, and dislodge what is trapped behind."  She looked at him to see what his thoughts were.  The hat he wore obscured her view of his face.

Colin sneered at the police officer. They always showed at the worst times. He supposed he looked rather suspicious but not enough to warrant a second look. Colin put the knife away with a quick motion. He held his good hand up and made a lazy wave to the man in uniform. "Evenin' officer. I can't say I'm not happy to see you. Madman on the loose here. Got me," he said lifting his hand. "...and gutted that poor bastard there."

His hand with the bandage pointed to the dead transient while his other hand slipped down to the knife he had just put into his pocket. No sense in not being prepared. He was not going to be manacled by this copper.

John and Kimi: By now the blood has taken on a rather putrid smell. You also see there are some discoloration in it, indicating perhaps it will be a very messy thing you see upon digging it out of the wall. The bricks look loose enough it shouldn't be hard to do.

Colin:

The policeman looks at you with calculating eyes. You are surprised at how cold they are. You had heard though that the police in New York could be quite corrupted at times, which did not exactly ease your mind right now. I see. Well, if you wouldn't mind coming with me to the precinct to tell me what you saw? It would be much appreciated. He has not released his tight grip on the baton and his body seems stiff and ready to move quickly. There is no kindness in his voice.

Colin may have just been paranoid. Maybe it was finally time for him to commit himself to a sanitarium. He knew they would lock him up until the end of days if he told people about what he saw in his everyday life. Maybe it he was sane enough to notice the copper not taking a huge interest in a dead body no greater than ten meters away. That would have sen most people running to help or trying to beat the first person they suspected to death. This 'police officer' was doing neither. He just seemed very intent on doing wrong to Colin. Colin was not keen on fulfilling his wish.

He put down the bloody hand and stared the copper down. "Sorry, copper, but I can't oblige ya. Too much else troublin' dees streets. I'd be worried more 'bout dat body than me. Mind telling me your name and precinct. I'll come be later ta talk with ya."
He slipped the knife from his pocket, not extended, but ready to go.

In reply to Kimi-Yuka Noriko (msg # 27):

The man nodded as he surveyed the wall. "Sounds as good a plan as any." He reached over seeing if he could grip the bricks, if not he'd draw a knife. Before he removed anything however he turned to the oriental woman. "Thes maight be messy ma'am might wanna loook tha other way."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:21, Sat 02 Nov 2013.

Kimi did not move, her curiosity piqued.  "It is good most respected Sir.  I will remain." She did not reach out to touch the bricks, but stayed right where she was.  Her eyes passed from him to his hands to the bricks.  She positioned herself for a strike, in case something should sprout from the wall.

Colin: The cop gives you an amused grin, but there is no friendliness in it. Do you really think I should trust a suspicious man next to a body to come back and have a chat later? I assure you man, I do notice the body and I also notice your proximity. The man won't be any less dead if I wait to examine him. You, however, may slip away and right now you are my only lead. Surely you realize how I should prefer you to come with me for the time being? Or perhaps you would rather chat here? In which case, I suggest you put your knife away. He finishes flatly. You are unsure what to make of him. He seems threatening to be sure, but whether it is because you are suspicious to him or something more nefarious you cannot be certain.

John and Kimi:

It is not too hard to remove the bricks with the knife and once you do an alarming amount of blood and other elements surge out. The smell is so overwhelming it is difficult not to be sick. After the initial liquid has passed, you see the remains of what looks to be a man. He is badly decomposed, but he wears a blue velvet suit and a small cross around his neck. Kimi, you recognize him as Jason Netts, one of the more advanced Men of Letters. He was supposed to have been away on a case, but clearly this is not so. You also note with a sinking heart that he and Ian have long been rivals. Whether or not the man is guilty of the suspicions against him, this will not look well for him. Especially since he's the one who told everyone that Netts had gone.

Kimi stands up, covering her mouth.  It is unseemly to be ill, and with strength of will she is not.

She looks to the man with her.  "This is most suspicious gentle sir.  I know this man, and he was to be away, upon the bidding of Mr. Brook.  It is clear he is not."  She looks puzzled.

In reply to Kimi-Yuka Noriko (msg # 34):

John lifted a sleeve up to his face to help filter the smell. He'd seen his fair share of dead bodies, it held no shock for him anymore, though it did smell something fierce. "That don't sound comforting ma'am. Not comfortin at all. Makes me wonder what Ah'm signin up fer."

Kimi continued to look at the dead man, then switched her dark eyes to John. "Do you know where it is I might find Mr. Brook?  There much we must discuss."

Before he can answer, you hear approaching footsteps and the voice of a woman grumbling to herself. She rounds the corner and you see it is Lily, though John does not know her name as yet. Kimi, you know Lily very well. The native woman had a fierce temper and could be a bit grumpy, but she was extremely loyal to the cause and she was also a good friend of yours. She looks surprised to see you both, but her expression quickly recovers. There you are! I've been looking for John all over-Uh....what is that? Is that a body?! What happened?! She demands sharply.

Kimi composed herself. "It is the body of Mr. Netts, he is not away upon our cause but has been here for some time." Kimi indicated the mess with her extended arm. "Do you know where Mr. Brook is that I may discuss this situation with him?"

Colin gave a cheery smile to the police officer. This man was not on the level. No one beside Hunters, monsters and soldiers were this calm around dead bodies. Colin also thought it odd that he was prime suspect. Obviously he had not gutted the poor bastard with a knife the length of the palm of a hand. Not enough leverage, not enough blade. "Aye, I'll put her away. When I do, ya have ta tell me what yer name and precinct are. It just surprises me ya don't seem to concerned about the man there."

Colin peered up at the sky, letting a few rain drops hit him. He looked back at the police officer and smiled again. His knife was twirling and twisting in flashes. The street lamps made it seem like a flame in Colin's hand as he made it vanish. Of course the blade was just in his sleeve, ready to go at a moment's notice. It was a trick he learned long ago from the newsies. Hide a blade to secure a corner. No punk messed with you if he didn't know where your knife was. Same went for coppers. If they thought you were unarmed, they cooperated more.

In reply to Lily (msg # 37):

"Was in tha room when I noticed a pool a blood on tha floor." John explained as he stood, taking a handkerchief from his coat to wipe the blood off his hands. "Heard her callin fer help and Ah went ta investigate. The blood was concentrated here and tha bricks were loose. Pulled em out with ma knife and out came this feller."

Lily looks at the mess of a body and mutters something in a different language under her breath. You could swear it was a prayer, but she says it too quickly to really tell. Yes. I just spoke to him. I was supposed to bring Grant here to be debriefed by him. Come with me, we'll tell him together. She says firmly. We should find someone to clean this up too. Bury the poor soul. She turns to John. Well, what do you think of your first fifteen minutes here? If you rode as fast as you could out of New York right now no one would blame you. Obviously we can't guarantee your safety when our own men are being murdered and stuffed into walls. She sounds bitter.

Colin: The cop regards you with a frown, eying your blade as it disappears. Oh I can assure you that I will look into the matter. Don't judge my reactions by my calmness. When you are a policeman in New York, you see a lot of things. And honestly, this is not the first body like this I have come across. Now, what do you know? Did you see anyone in the area? My name is George Smith and I am in the West Precinct. He adds, almost as an afterthought. What happened to your hand anyway? He nods towards your wound.

"Ah ain't afraid of death, not anymore. And Ah'm more than a bit curious to what this all about." John replied. "Kent get rid o me tha easy."

Colin raised an eyebrow at the police officer. Not the first body he has seen? That thought made Colin especially wary since the police might be involved in it. He instead gave a slight nod and pointed towards where he found the dismembered hand. "Found a woman's hand after it was dropped by this man in a coat. Tall, shaded from light. Couldna get a good look. Came around the corner and found tha man there. As for me hand? Just a slip of the knife in the rain."
He moved a little closer to the cop, squeezing his hand so that the blood ran freely again. Maybe the bastard would stop hiding. Maybe the copper would drop a disguise and come at him. Colin began to realize just how lone he was tonight without Lee next to him.

John and Kimi:

Lily looks at John with an unreadable expression for a long silent moment. Then she gives a nod of what appears to be approval, a slight smile on her lips. Alright then. Let's see how true that is. She arches an eyebrow. Then she leads you both down the hallway with purpose, walking quickly. It appears that Westbrook has taken to his study again, which leads Kimi to believe he must be done with the new recruits. He is alone and after Lily knocks he opens the door quickly. He looks surprised to see Kimi there, but recovers and ushers you in. Ah, the tardy Mr Grant I presume? He gives a smile. He is an older gentleman, very distinguished, if a tad overweight. Lily here has been telling me about you. I'm sure you would like specifics of your involvement? Obviously the man has no idea about what has transpired in the hall with the body.

Colin: I see. Was it cut or bitten off? He demands, his eyes are wary and he still looks on edge. And tell me, what is a man such as yourself doing out at this hour on such an unpleasant night? He muses. Before you answer though, his eyes flick to your hand. You are bleeding again sir. Perhaps you should see a doctor. You would not want it to become infected. His eyes do not leave your hand for a long moment.

Grant nodded his head to the man in respect. "Tha would be me sir. And I would but we got other business ta tend to first. Tha lady here and me found a pool of blood in front of some loose bricks, there was a dead man in thar. I'm told he was one o yers."

Colin moved his hand slowly and removed a bandage from his pocket. He let the rain wash the blood of his hand freely before turning back towards the cop. He balled the handkerchief and sopped some of the blood up, looking at the action while he spoke. "I think it's time ta stop playing games,boyo. Ye know as well as I do this ain't gonna sit pretty at tha end. Itsa crummy evening and neither me self or you want to be here," he said in a calm, cold tone. He tossed the blood soaked rag at the cop. "You do you and I'll do me. We'll see who is standin' at the end." While he had been speaking, he moved the knife from his sleeve to pocket. He was rolling the second sleeve up to his elbow.

His arms were covered in tattoos of various designs and age. Most prominent were a set of crosses that marked each forearm. They were ornate and detailed. Each one was surrounded by set of rosary beads worked in ink. Dimly seen in the streetlights, on fingers between the hand and first knuckle, were the words 'hold fast'.

Lily quickly recounts the name and the man curses under his breath. That is wretched news. He shakes his head. Lily, go have someone take care of it please. He dismisses her with a slight wave and she hurries off with a quick glance back at John, as though afraid to leave him alone. Lily said she filled you in on the basics. As you can see, we have a traitor in our midst. Possibly more. Hence I am hiring from the outside so to speak. I will not only be asking for your help with the cult's activities, but also in pursuing this interloper. Be warned, you may not come out of this alive. I hate to be so blunt, but I don't believe in sending men to die without warning them at least. At that he turns and arches an eyebrow at Kimi. Greetings Miss Noriko. I did not expect to speak with you until tomorrow.

Colin: The man starts to laugh but it is an unfriendly, harsh sound. You hunters are all the same. Overconfident. And delicious. He grins and there is suddenly an alarming array of sharp teeth. You get the impression he could be some kind of variation of a vampire, though the lack of blood loss from the victims is confusing. What kind of vampire eats the flesh like that? Well, no time to think about that now. His club is out and he steps forward menacingly. Your move 'boyo' He says the word mockingly. This should be entertaining.

ooc: Let the battle commence! He is giving you the first move, so feel free to go for it :D

Colin gave a sly grin and then moved like a flash of lightning. His knife was out in the space of three paces and almost just a silver streak in his hand. The lithe Irishman moved nearly likely a professional dancer, his body never staying in one spot too long. The knife made a quick jabbing motion at the copper's throat, only to curve at the last second and go for the eyes. Colin knew that fighting dirty was the only way he could win. When you were a Hunter, there was no such thing as a fair fight. He also knew that he was in single combat, so far. Colin could focus his energy into quick movements that would buy him time to get past the monster's defenses and kill it for good.

Move:Close to melee range[Draw knife as part of action]
Attack:Knife hits vs Defense 20, deals 4 from knife and 2 from streetfighting, for 6.

Declare monster as Dodge target. Defense rises to 20 vs monster


22:26, Today: Colin Browne rolled 2 using 1d4. Streetfighting dmg.
22:26, Today: Colin Browne rolled 4 using 1d4+1. Knife damage.
22:17, Today: Colin Browne rolled 20 using 1d20+8. attack vs monster.

Kimi bows slightly, "Mr Brook, if you will allow, I had a late visitor, a visitor that brought to me a concern about Ian and strange unravellings." She straightens. "I was on my way to speak with you, when it became apparent there was a stain of blood upon the floor.  I did then call and Mr Grant assisted me."

Colin:
The man, or rather creature, lunges back as you slice with your knife. You still slice him across the face, but it is by no means a killing wound. He gives a snarl of rage, clearly underestimating you. He swings with his club, attempting to knock you off balance in order to grab at you with his other hand. Fortunately you are too quick and manage to evade. The street is still deserted. The rain picks up. Blood is running down his face and his teeth gleam in the streetlights, giving him a rather horrific appearance. The fight continues.

ooc: Okie dokie, just to move things along, I often have fights rolled in rounds of 3. So go ahead and post 3 attack and damage rolls (whether applicable or not) as well as your intentions and reactions. I shall do the same. When the time comes, I also appreciate if you would post your current hit points so I know what I'm dealing with here. It helps me keep track of your damage.

Kimi and John:

Westbrook frowns in thought as he listens. Ian? What about Ian? Tell me everything Kimi. Who brought the concern to you? He demands. He is also looking John up and down during all this. After all, he has not had the chance to properly scrutinize his newest addition.

Kimi bowed again slightly.  She made sure the door to the room was shut, then continued. "Neekolus came to my room, he spoke that he had witnessed someone enter the stores.  It was there, that two people were talking about a ritual.  He then recounted that a man stole things from the stores and that he overheard the words "this should be enough to get everything ready for the hand." He then claims he saw Ian Shaw." She showed no emotion as she related her story.

"Since then we have found Mr. Netts dead in the wall.  It would seem that Mr. Shaw was the person to inform our cadre that Mr. Netts was gone on a mission."  Kimi bowed again to show she was done with her synopsis.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:30, Sun 10 Nov 2013.

In reply to John Westbrook (msg # 48):

"Frankly sir, fear of death is for people with something to lose. If I ken help stop somethin awful from happenin it don't matter what happens ta me. I'm in for both jobs." He saluted the man quickly before he returned his attention back to the slight woman he'd discovered the body with.

Kimi looked at John, assessing him. "Admirable, if not for misguided reasons respected sir." Her dark eyes showed a small amount of humor.

As the creature came at him, Colin dodged past the outstretched hand and jabbed at the armpit before leaping backwards out of reach. He came in full bore, his knife darting in and out. His goal was not to kill in one swift stroke, but rather bleed the monster dry. Then he could at least have the time to examine it. Every time the monster would come close to grabbing him, Colin planned on counter attacking and rushing in to begin his offense anew.

---

Agile Reposte allows me an AOA against my Dodge Feat target once per round, if the target misses with a melee or touch attack.

18:37, Today: Colin Browne rolled 4 using 1d4. Agile Reposte Streetfighting.
18:37, Today: Colin Browne rolled 2 using 1d4+1. Agile Reposte Dmg Knife.
18:36, Today: Colin Browne rolled 23 using 1d20+8. Agile Reposte AOA.
18:35, Today: Colin Browne rolled 3 using 1d4. Streetfighting Dmg 3.
18:35, Today: Colin Browne rolled 3 using 1d4. Streetfighting Dmg 2.
18:35, Today: Colin Browne rolled 3 using 1d4. Streetfighting Dmg 1.
18:35, Today: Colin Browne rolled 5 using 1d4+1. Knife Dmg 3.
18:34, Today: Colin Browne rolled 3 using 1d4+1. Knife Dmg 2.
18:34, Today: Colin Browne rolled 3 using 1d4+1. Knife dmg 1.
18:34, Today: Colin Browne rolled 17 using 1d20+8. Attack 3.
18:34, Today: Colin Browne rolled 24 using 1d20+8. Attack 2.
18:33, Today: Colin Browne rolled 17 using 1d20+8. Attack 1.

In reply to Kimi-Yuka Noriko (msg # 56):

"With all due respect ma'am, once a man has lost everything he has little left to fear." He replied to the Asian woman as he adjusted his hat. Misguided or not his reasons were his own and he would hold on to them till he saw his family again.

Westbrook listens to Kimi with a frown. These are serious accusations made against Mr. Shaw. As implicating as they are, I cannot believe them so readily. He was one of my first recruits. Perhaps I am just sentimental, but I want first hand evidence before I condemn the man, though I cannot say that I am too hopeful by all that you've said. He is staying at an inn tonight to be near the new recruits. He will be off with them in the morning. I want you to tail him. Take Mr Grant here and Lily with you. See if you come up with anything on your own. The tailor supposedly has a back entrance to his shop. I would investigate there as well. Now you are looking for anything involving Mr. Bently OR Ian Shaw. If he is at all involved with the hand there should be some evidence. I will have his room searched tonight since he is conveniently away. Well, you have your orders. Tomorrow I want you tailing him on the double. Do not be seen Kimi. You may want to dress in a more....Westernly fashion than usual to blend in. If you need to get close, send Mr. Grant in. He should be an unknown at the moment. He pauses, turning to John in particular. I have a room prepared for you here if you are interested. You can get some rest and then be ready to start in the morning. Sound acceptable?

ooc: Holy flippin flaming crap! I can't believe my rotten dice roller luck! Three rolls and they all sucked! I suppose it's a good thing if one's GM has bad luck at rolling against you.

Colin: The creature slashes at you with one hand, you can't help but notice he suddenly has alarmingly fierce looking claws. The other hand still wields the baton and he fortunately misses you, though he is incredibly frustrated by your dodging. Two of your attempts manages to strike him, one in the arm and the other across the ear, however that does not seem to slow him down. You obviously don't know what I am hunter. He laughs. That will be your fatal mistake.

ooc: Next three rolls please :D

Kimi realized that she had insulted Mr John, and her eyes grew wide. "Oh most respected sir! Please! This unrighteous person would NEVER think to know your true heart! Please forgive my mistep! This being only meant to tell the noble gunfighter, that there is always reason to continue in life." She bowed to him, her eyes downcast.

Colin moved towards the monster like water, flowing around him and striking when ever the opportunity. He laughed at the monster as it tried to mock him. "Aye, that may be, but ye'll bleed dry before you get to me." He struck again, quick, efficient and deadly. He tried to see how many wounds he could cause and make bleed before he was himself wounded.

---

20:33, Yesterday: Colin Browne rolled 2,1,3,1,4,1 using 1d4,1d4,1d4,1d4,1d4,1d4. Streetfighting dmg.
20:32, Yesterday: Colin Browne rolled 2,3,2,2,5,5 using 1d4+1,1d4+1,1d4+1,1d4+1,1d4+1,1d4+1. Knife damage AOA, then Normal.
20:31, Yesterday: Colin Browne rolled 11,11,24 using 1d20+8,1d20+8,1d20+8. Normal Attacks vs Monster.
20:30, Yesterday: Colin Browne rolled 13,17,23 using 1d20+8,1d20+8,1d20+8. Agile Reposte vs monster.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:11, Fri 15 Nov 2013.

In reply to Kimi-Yuka Noriko (msg # 61):

John looked down as the woman bowed. "Think nuthin of it ma'am, but I do have a reason ta live. Ta kill as many of tha monsters that took everything from me. And this jobs fulfillin tha purpose." He turned back to his new employer. "Thas fine sir. I'll stay here and get started in tha mornin."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:59, Fri 15 Nov 2013.

Colin: Good luck using that puny pig sticker. The thing hisses. It manages to avoid many of your swipes, but two of them catch it squarely in the chest, making it snarl at you. Unfortunately this time it makes contact with the baton and smashes you in the ribs twice with such strength it nearly takes your breath away. As you stagger back, you suddenly see a figure running towards you both. It is a middle aged fellow, tall and trim in a black coat. His dark hair and short beard mark him as foreign and when he speaks he has a light Italian accent. That will never work! He'll take you apart before you can even think of killing him. Use this! He suddenly tosses you a rather savage looking dagger, taking care to toss it at your feet lest you get stuck with it trying to catch it. While he does this, he draws a knife of his own and cautiously starts to approach. It is clear he's not much of a fighter. The creature looks displeased at this sudden turn of events and you can see him calculating whether or not to run.

ooc: Just roll for one round this time so you can declare intentions, etc.

John and Kimi:

Alright it is settled. I will have Lily show you to your quarters and in the morning start tailing Ian, the both of you. Lily should come as well just in case. If she's sharp to you just ignore her. She's got a temper if you hadn't noticed. The more you ignore it the more she calms down. Or you can just let Kimi here handle it. She's been friends with her for awhile and she can keep her civil most of the time. He gives a grin. I will require your weapons for the night so that I can have them improved upon. They will be ready by morning. However, I will loan you something for the night. If people are being murdered and hidden in walls it's obviously not a good idea to go unarmed.... He trails off sadly.

ooc: Ok, go ahead and finish up here. Let me know what you want to do for the rest of the night and that morning. Then I'll try and join you up on one of the other threads.

Colin took little time to formulate a plan. The two thumps he had taken hurt like the morning after a wake and he didn't even have fun the day before. He gave a quick glance at the newcomer then to the knife he had thrown at Colin's feet. He waited until the monster darted his eyes towards the stranger. When he did, Colin gave a wide grin at the opportunity and dove for the knife at his feet.

He tucked as his body contacted the ground, tumbling over his shoulder and clutching the knife in one hand. His other hand, tucked closed to his body, grabbed the foot of the monster and used it as leverage to pull through the rest of the roll. Colin sprang up as his feet came under him, whirling the dagger over hand. He twisted it into a reverse grip and used his now free hand to add extra power to the blow.

---

23:02, Today: Colin Browne rolled 9 using 2d4+1 with rolls of 4,4. Knife dmg + Streetfighting.
23:01, Today: Colin Browne rolled 18 using 1d20+8. Attack with special knife.
22:59, Today: Colin Browne rolled 29 using 1d20+12. Tumble through.

In reply to John Westbrook (msg # 65):

John nodded reaching into his coat and producing both revolvers and holding them out by the handle towards the older man. "Heah yeh are sir." After he had received his backup weapon John followed the Indian woman to the room he would be staying in. Once alone John removed his hat and cost as he pulled a flask from his pocket. He opened the flask and took a large gulp. He never slept well anymore but it was harder when sober. He also took a pipe and lit that as he sat alone a dark look over his face until eventually he fell asleep. He woke in the morning and after a quick trip to the washroom he donned his jacket and hat and went to retrieve his guns.

When John and Lily left, Kimi remained.  "Most honorable one, I have words that I would speak.  I do not believe that Ian is foul in our mission.  I am suspecting he is perhaps being blamed.  Do you know Nikolas well?"

Colin: pm

Kimi: Westbrook gives a nod at your conclusion. Yes, I will admit I am loathe to suspect Ian as well. That is why I need proof before I go off and detain him. As for Nicholas, he is fairly new to us, though he comes highly reccomended from one of our sister branches. If he is involved in a scheme I hope it only goes as far as him and not any of the other  branches. There are already too few that I trust as it it. Still, I cannot afford to ignore accusations about Ian. Please be sure to study him with an open mind and look for anything suspicious. Do not confront him with this information and try to stay as hidden from him as possible.

John: The next morning you find it quite easy to find your guns as Lily knocks on your door with them in hand and a tray of food in the other. I trust you slept well? She gives you an unreadable look but her face doesn't have any anger in it for once.

Kimi bowed her head, and back away and then left Westbrook's presence.

In reply to Artemis (msg # 69):

"Well enough." John replied as he took the revolvers from her replacing them in his holsters.

Kimi returned to her room, she would rest with the hours left to her, and then resume her mission in the morning.

(Upon awakening, Kimi would find her way to where ever Ian can be found)

Colin: You manage to slice him across the lower abdomen. It is not in itself a killing blow, but you are shocked to see a flicker of energy as it makes contact with the flesh through the man's uniform. The creature gives a great shriek of pain as though incredibly surprised. Whatever this weapon is, it is effective. He swings at you but you are still nimble enough to dodge. Thinking better of the situation, the thing starts to run. ooc: You get an attack of opportunity

Lily informs John of exactly what was done to his weapons. They have been enhanced. They should be useful against most monsters now, save for the most powerful ones of course. There are always exceptions. Still, you should be considerably better equipped now that you have the right tools. She looks quite proud of the accomplishment, though she admits she had little to do with it.

Kimi/John: The two of you, along with Lily head towards the Tailor's shop in hopes of finding Ian there. He will likely either be there or at the tailor's house, but it is closer to try there first.

ooc: I'm going to lead you to thread 1.3 now and post for you there.

Colin blinked a few times at the light that emerged from wound. He stumbled back a few steps. Nothing he had seen had made that kind of reaction before. Nothing. He realized too late that the creature was fleeing. He lashed out halfheartedly. He was confused, in pain, and still needed to address the new comer. He whispered nearly inaudibly to himself, "Next time, boyo, we'll dance a little longer."

He didn't bother giving chase. Once he was sure the damnable monster was gone, he took a long swing from his hip flask.

Are you alright? The Italian takes a look at you, concern on his face. You may as well keep that. It knows your face now. I have a feeling you will need it. He gestures to the knife. Well....I really shouldn't linger. You take care young man. He looks a bit abashed, as though perhaps he shouldn't have been so open with you, not that he really has been other than giving you the knife. He quickly starts to walk away looking very stiff and uncomfortable. Clearly he is not supposed to be talking with you.

Colin cocked his head and started after the man, glancing at the knife. "Hey fella! Jus' what da hell is going on. Hey!" He then realized that he was likely not going to get anywhere by trying to talking to the man. That part was obviously over. Instead, he slipped the knife the the mystery man had thrown him into his jacket. He picked up his other knife in the street and made his way back to follow the Italian. Once he found an area of the city the man lived in, he could find him.

---

Take 10 on Hide[Tailing] and Move Silently checks for the Italian.
22 and 24 respectively.

You appear to do a good job of keeping hidden for the man does not seem to notice you. He does look around suspiciously in an attempt to prevent being followed, but if he sees you he does not act like it. He goes into a fairly deserted part of town. Mostly old warehouses and unkempt buildings. He takes out a key and disappears into a particularly large warehouse that looks to have seen better days. It is likely abandoned and you can't help but wonder why he is going here of all places.

Colin sniffed the air. It smelled foul here. He didn't like the whole situation. Still, the mystery man with the Italian accent. Making sure that he was not seen, Colin continued to follow the man into the abandoned warehouse. His mind flashed to the possibility that he was headed into a trap. After all, the man had simply appeared and given Colin a knife that solved his monster problem, the left without so much a farewell as a nervous goodbye.

The man needed to be followed.

Colin:

Unfortunately the door is locked. The lowest windows are boarded too, though there is a metal ladder on the side of the building that gives you access to the second story windows, which are still intact for the most part. You could also try picking the lock.

Colin backed up and looked up at the top of the building. He needed to get up there. If this place was a secret hideout or sanctuary of some kind, it would have defenses on the doors. Everyone seemed to forget the roof though. He made his way around the building, shielding his eyes from the rain when he had to look up. Maybe the fire exits and stairs were still intact somewhere. If not, there was alway that second story window he saw with a ladder.

You look around for some time, but it looks like these people are careful. Even the roof is locked, though there is a lot of stray wood and debris around. It would be possible to try to break down the door should you wish. While you are busy accessing ladders and fire escapes in your attempts to break in, you do notice through the windows that there is a small lantern glowing from within. It is unaccompanied and sits on a wooden crate in the middle of the room. You find this to be odd. It's as if someone is expected and the light has been left out for them. You also see no sign of the Italian from any of the windows.

ooc: If you choose to break down the door on the roof I will let you take a 20 on it.

Colin rubbed the back of his neck and cursed the rain for not letting him light up a cigarette. He mulled over the place for a moment before deciding that maybe the easiest thing to do would be to simply knock. The Italian seemed to know his way around monsters and that was scary enough. Combined with the fact that Colin was in unfamiliar territory and needed to get inside quick, a simple knock on the door might suffice.

You wait awhile and at first it seems that no one is there. Surprisingly though, a tall thin red headed man answers, looking at you suspiciously. This is private property. What do you want? He sounds on edge, but he is a well groomed man and nicely dressed. Not the type you would expect to see in an abandoned warehouse.

Colin grinned and leaned to try and peer past the man. "Just lookin' for someone. Italian fellow, may have dropped this near me," he said as he pulled out the newly acquired monster slaying knife. "Man ran off without so much as a good-bye. He might want his property back." Colin figured that the man would either be baffled at his knowledge or jump to the attack immediately. He was really hoping it was the former. Colin didn't want to kill someone that was also fighting the good fight.

The man's face in unreadable for a moment and then he quickly shakes his head. Well he's not here right now. He only stopped in for a moment and then went out the back. I can give it back to him next time I see him. He holds his hand out for the blade, though it is clear he is quite on edge about you and a fight could break out any moment.

Colin gave the man a hard stare before cocking an eyebrow."I'd prefer to give it to him,mate. How do I know if you're on the level?" , Colin said with an internal chuckle. An Irishman looking for an Italian in a abandoned warehouse and he was worried if the guy inside was honest or not. He gave a sly smile at the man before twirling the knife away.

The man does not look amused. You know, it's not polite to assume someone is a liar when you've only just met them. He says bluntly. If you would rather, you can come back in the morning. I'll make sure I tell him you are coming and he can meet you here to retrieve his knife. Surely that would satisfy you? He arches a disapproving eyebrow as if he truly finds you impertinent, though there is a lingering curiosity you can detect as well.


ooc: Woo! Ladyhawke quote right there! ;P

Colin rubbed his eyebrows with one hand. This boy had no taste for the game. Banter was a signature of Hunters. He removed his hand. "Ya aren't very bright, are ya boyo? I tracked him here, after facin' something that wasn't too pleasant and yer asking me ta come back in tha morn? How long have you been hunting?"  Colin talked with exaggerated motions. If he could keep the man's attention up at his face, he might not notice the foot sliding into position for a quick maneuver to rush past the man.

---

Take 10 on Slight of Hand to distract the doorman.   Ready action to try and Tumble past him if he attacks.

The man gives a start of surprise at your words and then stares at you with a blank expression for a long moment. Alright, you're a hunter. That's well and good but I wasn't lying about him leaving. He really isn't available I'm afraid. If there's something I can answer for you I will try, or you can come back tomorrow and I will be sure he is available. If you aren't inclined to believe my words I will prove them to you. He opens the door wider. Care to come in? He arches an eyebrow.

Colin displayed his most amiable smile as he paused for a moment to consider the man's offer. A chance to look at a place that might have unknown terrors lurking within? He was surprised at himself when he didn't immediately leap inside. He simply nodded and drew out a piece of cigarette paper. Taking a tin out as well, he shuffled to get at least far enough inside to roll at light his cigarette. He gestured to the tin and paper, offering a square to the mystery man.

For a moment the man looks tempted but he shakes his head politely. You get the feeling he doesn't want to let his guard down. Forgive me if I don't trust you right away. He says sincerely. You say you are a hunter and that makes us on the same side. However, you have to admit you are a bit pushy. He grins suddenly as if amused. He then steps inside, leaving you to enter at your leisure. Considering the nature of our work, would you mind indulging me? I recognize that knife as my companion's. Would you mind giving your arm a small cut so that I can be certain you are what you say you are? The knife as you may have noticed, has special properties. It will be apparent if you are lying. He finishes politely.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 18:43, Thu 12 Dec 2013.

Taking his cigarette between his lips, Colin nodded and made a cut across his palm. He held it out as he did it so that the man could see.

He looks satisfied and offers to show similar proof, which he passes if you take him up on it. Then he turns to show you the warehouse. It has the look of abandonment but there are still dusty crates and boxes that look like they have not been used in years. He walks across the room and takes a seat in a chair next to a lighted lantern in the center of the room. Well, since you are so utterly curious about this place and my companion, feel free to search since you apparently won't take my word for it. Just be careful if you go upstairs, some of the stairs are rather old. He arches his eyebrow in warning.

ooc: Roll search and sense motive as well as your response

Colin nodded and took a long drag of his cigarette. He toured the ground floor for a moment, casually walking around. He opened a few of the more interesting crates if he could. He shouted a few questions and making small talk with the man, feeling him out. When he was done with the ground floor, he moved to the man and the lantern. "What kind of outfit are ya running with here? It ain't no hunter set up I've ever seen."

As Colin asked the question, he moved ever so slightly towards the stairs, fully intending to explore the upstairs when the question was answered. So far, Colin was on edge so much that he was suspicious of everything.

The man gives a slight smile to the question. Well, I could tell you but I have to be certain you are trustworthy first. We may have use for one such as you, but I need to get the proper permissions first. I need to contact my superiors and see if they are willing to possibly include you in our cause. You can either wait outside while I contact them, meet me tomorrow morning as I have suggested many times, OR I could introduce you to them now. However, if they do not find you trustworthy I will literally have to kill you. If you are honest and decent we have ways of knowing it and you will come to no harm. If, however, you mean me or my companions ill will, you will not make it out of this building again. Your choice. He shrugs. Or, he adds, You can leave now, keep your new knife and forget you ever saw us. In spite of the severity of his words, he speaks very calmly and matter of factly. You can't help but sense he means what he says.

Colin sniffed and took a last, long drag on the cigarette. "Kill me if I don't fit your bill, eh? Sounds like a group of friendly bastards. Lead the way then, boyo, cause I ain't going ta let ya weave a tale like that and get on the street," Colin said in a slightly sarcastic tone. Seemed the young man didn't have much in the way of a sense of humor. He was quite fond of the new knife and if he could get his hands on more like that, all the better for Colin. Never turn down a good opportunity.

The man breaks into a grin. I'll admit I was hoping you would agree to that. You seem the type of man who doesn't stop asking questions until he gets his answers. I have a feeling I'll feel a lot safer around you once you get them. He speaks as he gets up from his chair and moves it several feet away. He then peels back the rug that it was on, revealing a trap door. Clever eh? There's no way you would have found it unless you had forced me to move. He opens it, revealing a ladder going down into the darkness. After you. He gestures. I don't suppose you've heard of the men of letters? Not too many hunters have these days, but we work closely with them. He explains.

ooc: Go ahead and roll a knowledge check. If you get a 15 you have heard the name but little else, if you get lower you have not heard of them.

Colin gave a chuckle as the man revealed the trap door. He removed another piece of rolling paperand made himself another cigarette. He lot it with a match and nodded. "Lead the way. Let's hope I don't have to go down fighting." He didn't bring up the fact that he didn't know who the men of letters were. Better to keep the young man in the dark than admit that he didn't know. At least he was going to meet and hopefully not kill the men of letters.

The man hesitates, but goes first after being sure you are in fact going to follow him. At the bottom of the ladder there is a tunnel, cobblestone floored and bricks for the walls. There are electric lights mounted on the walls, giving it a very modern and updated look. My name is Frederick. The Italian man you met was Daunte. He is a man of letters while myself I am more of a hunter like yourself. I will take you to meet Victoria. She's the second in command here. She'll be able to tell what manner of man you are. If she approves you may just find yourself with some very useful allies. He remarks with a small smile. By now it is very late and you follow him through the tunnels and pass by several doors and hallways but there are few people at this hour. Those you do see note you curiously but say nothing other than short greetings to Frederick. You hope your interview of sorts goes well because it is clear you are very outnumbered. The tunnels are very extensive and you estimate they could house a hundred or two people with ease. He leads you to a door and then knocks on it almost quietly. A woman's voice answers. Come in Frederick. How she knows it is him is beyond you. He enters and you see an absolutely beautiful black woman seated at a desk poring over a large book that seems to be very old. She is simply dressed with dozens of tiny braids in her hair but she does not seem to be any kind of servant. She has proud eyes and an authoritative posture that denotes a high rank. Surprising considering her race. She looks at you in surprise. Forgive me, I didn't realize we had company. I am Victoria. And you are good sir? She extends a slim hand.

Colin stutter stepped a moment as he saw the woman. He cigarette nearly fell from his mouth as it gaped open. He closed it before the lit end sagged too far. He recovered enough to extend his own hand in a hesitant greeting. His grip was still firm, far too familiar with combat and a rough life to let surprise weaken it. He removed the cigarette from his lips and rubbed his eyebrows. He let out a small chuckle as the realization hit and he gave Frederick a smile. "Ya got me good, boyo. I honestly thought for a moment ya took orders from the colored feek here. Ya got me for a gowl if ya think I'll be believing that."

He gave Victoria look of apology. "I'll be apologizing for the boy. He obviously pulled ya into something not too proper for a lass."

Victoria's eyes widen in surprise, and you can see Frederick gaping too. He gives her an apologetic look and starts to say something but she cuts him off. She turns back to you, a cool look on her flawless face. I am sorry to disappoint you Mr. Browne, but you are wrong. I am Frederick's superior and I am also second in command in the New York chapter of the men of letters. I know my color and my sex are both disadvantages, and in any other chapter of the Men of Letters I would either be scorned or laughed at to be attempting to assume such a position of leadership. This is the New York chapter however, and here I am what I said I am and I will brook no further disbelief on the matter. Either accept it as others have or you may leave and your questions will remain unanswered, your memory wiped, and your new weapon taken from you. Now, are you going to show me my proper respect, or shall I get that second option started? She arches an eyebrow at you as though she means to do so right then. You can't help but wonder how she knows your name and she suddenly has an air of command so powerful that you suddenly think she may just be telling you the truth.

Colin cocked an eyebrow and widened his feet a bit. He didn't take being threatened lightly. Especially not from strangers. He tightened his fist into a fist and moved his hand for quick draw of one if his knives if needed. "Listen here, your highness. I gather yer used ta being the leader here, ya got tha bollocks for it. I don't take kind to threats and yer boy here won't be enough ta slow me if ya try to follow through. So, come off it." His eyes darted to Frederick. If the man moved to grab him, Colin was going to make him pay.

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OOC: Readied action to tumble past Frederick to Victoria. If he makes a move to grab or attack me. If she starts speaking Latin or another language without prompt, I'll do the same.
13:22, Today: Colin Browne rolled 16 using 1d20+7. Initiative.

Victoria gives a sigh and puts her hand on her head as though she is suffering from a headache. She certainly looks exhausted. Calm down Mr. Browne. She says tiredly. You just made me angry is all. If you would just be civil and calm down I can assure you nothing will happen to you. Even if you choose to ignore this advice I will not harm you. I'm sure Frederick threatened you with harm when he let you in if you didn't cooperate? Well, I tend to lean way from such...primitive methods. She shakes her head. I'm sure you are plotting your escape right now but it is not necessary. I'm afraid, as you can imagine, I've had a lot of trouble given to me about my color and I am overly sensitive perhaps. I apologize. She sounds sincere. If you would but calm down and listen respectfully I'm sure we can come to an understanding. I'm sure you're curious and I can tell already that you are a very accomplished hunter. I have certain...abilities. I can read people sometimes. You have quite the past Mr. Browne. If you think you can stand to work with a woman and a black one at that, I think there could be a place for you here. It is dangerous work, but nothing you aren't used to. And that knife you were given is just the beginning of our arsenal. Would you be interested, or not?

Colin relaxed slowly as Victoria spoke. She seemed to be genuine in not wanting to hurt him, but rather to help him. He certainly needed someone to rely on. He released the fist he clenched earlier, settling into a relaxed stance yet again. He spoke, caution but no malice in his voice. "Look, ya seem like you want to be on the level with me. I don't like sheddin' human blood if I don't haveta. Tha Negroes in New York have had it just as bad as me people. I tink we can work something out."

Victoria looks relieved and she sits again, offering you a chair. Glad to hear it. Good to know you're a reasonable man Mr. Browne. I apologize again for my outburst. She shakes her head. Now, I can tell that you are not well acquainted with the men of letters, nor are many hunters for that matter. We are a secret organization that has been around for centuries. We collect all manner of knowledge on everything supernatural that has thus far been encountered in this world. We share that knowledge with a very elite group of hunters who are then able to use it to dispatch evil and to keep the world safe. There are several chapters throughout the world, but ours is perhaps the largest. We are currently working on preventing certain events that could spell the end of humanity as we know it. Honestly we could use all the help we can get, and I sense you would be a great ally in this fight. I feel that I can trust you, but I want to know if you'll be cooperative. I know you don't like taking orders, but we work as teams and if you are to aid us we would need you to be able to work with others. Would you be able to do that? Are you even interested in joining the fight or am I perhaps wasting your time? She looks at you uncertainly, as though afraid of what your answer is.

Colin gave a thoughtful look and then smiled wryly. "Aye, I am interested. I'll even work with your boy here, provided ya give me one thing. Freedom. I do any assignments my way. No interference. You can say whatever ya want about me to your people, but I do things my way or not at all. I won't be some tin soldier." He cocked an eyebrow at Victoria.

The woman meets your gaze levelly and is silent for a moment as she considers. Alright. You shall have your freedom. However, that said please don't be reckless. Our organization has been around for centuries and we have ways of doing things that you may not understand. Please at least consider them before you reject them? You could learn a thing or two. She smiles warmly then. I suppose you'll be wanting a tour? If you wish you may stay the night as it is late. I will have some questions for you of course, though you likely have your own. She adds. Is there anything I can get you right now?

Colin nodded, his eyes looking around absently as he did. "Aye, a decent bottle of whiskey ta start. I'm a might parched.", he said as he began to wander aimlessly around. It had been a long, trying day and he was exhausted. All he wanted then was a place to sit, a bottle of smooth whiskey, and his cigarettes.

Miss Green gives an amused smile and strides to a desk across the room. Well, hopefully scotch will do for now. It is very expensive so that should hopefully appeal at least a bit for you. She pours a generous glass. You look tired. It is late. If you would like we can take this up in the morning. Would you like me to show you to a room? We have several guest quarters always at the ready. She offers politely.

ooc: I figured we can kind of finish up this evening unless your character really does have questions. Then I can try and get ready to add him to one of the other threads in the near future. I will probably keep you slightly separated for just a smidge so you don't feel like you have too much pressure to post as often as the others do. It seems like you have a hectic life and I will do my best to accommodate it until your schedule normalizes. You just let me know what pace you are ready for and I will post accordingly! :D

ooc: For the same of time I am going to skim...Ok, moving on! I'll fill you in on a few things here and then move you to the other thread after you confirm you have nothing further you wish to play out. So basically you spend the night and are given permanent quarters should you wish them. The next day you meet John Westbrook, the leader of this chapter. He seems serious and very busy, but fair. Victoria explains the finer points of the men of letters, explaining that they collect centuries of information on all things supernatural and use it to aid a few select hunters in the disposal of said creatures. There are chapters worldwide, but this is the only one that is...progressive enough to allow places for women and other races. She also informs you that she is a psychic at times, though she cannot control it very well. There is also a cult called the Hand of Baal, which is comprised of everything from humans to demons to vampires, etc; all bent on bringing about an early Armageddon. Lately the chapter's efforts have been centered around thwarting these plans.

 Later that day, as you are busy exploring and getting the lay of the headquarters she returns to inform you that you are needed that night. A shipment of summoning scrolls is going to be delivered to the docks and they contain spells that will possibly summon a hundred or more demon generals in the coming battle. She asks you if you are willing to help.

Colin flashed a smile and twirl his newly acquired knife in his fingers. He spoke in a cheerful tone, as if the idea of banishing demons back to hell was nothing more than child's play. "Aye. When do we start and can I get a streetsweeper? Me knives are great, but I would prefer something more powerful to back them up." He looked ready and eager, not as tired as he was the day before.

streetsweeper.....? She mutters to herself and then gives a sudden nod. You mean firearm? Of course. We have an entire aresenol outfitted and blessed, just like that knife you were given. Pick what you wish. She will be sure to show you the location before the day is done. We have two teams going tonight. The first is a small group who is going to scout for the ship. The second is going to stay hidden and ready for when things break out. I would like you on the second team please. I could use your sharp eyes on the lookout and I can't have too many people wandering the docks. It would call too much attention to them. She explains.