Kitty: After your bath you are summoned by a messenger who leads you to a study where you are to await Lily, whom you've met to meet. ooc: More for you below.

Kate: As the incident with Penny and Father Simon continues, Lily motions for you to follow and she leaves with a stony face. Once outside she says, Well, I think we have better things to do with our time than watch that don't you think? She looks on the cranky side. A messenger arrives then and hands Lily a sealed envelope and leaves. She skims the note and looks surprised, turning to you. Well this is interesting. Looks like Ian dug up a new recruit and she's to go with me tonight on a little crossroads questioning. Care to join while I meet with her? There's much I should fill you in about anyway.

Should you decide to go with her you soon end up in a study, one that you've met in many times by now. You see a pretty young woman waiting curiously.

Everyone: Kitty, you see two women enter the room. One with short dark hair and strange clothes, pants like your own you are pleased to see. The other a lovely Indian woman with fierce eyes and proud features though at the moment she looks kind enough. Are you the poor girl who's father sold his soul to a demon? her bluntness is both surprising and friendly. To Kate this would come as startling as well.

Kitty felt much better after her bath, and relaxed and comfortable in pants, which she had worn before in Edinburgh on jobs that required fast get-aways.  The messenger led her to the study, where she met two more women - she was a little taken aback when directly questioned by the native woman.

"Forgive me, but I honestly don't know what my father has done, although that is what Ms. Green and Mr. Shaw suspect.  As to being 'poor', on that account you are correct."

She had not expected to see more women in the organization; Kitty was glad she did not stick out like a sore thumb.

Kate follows Lily, but only after she is sure Penny is alright to be left alone. "That won't be pretty," she said once out in the hall. "You know he sent us hate mail in 2013? Penny didn't think it was as amusing as I did..."

In the study she eyed the new woman with interest. Her Father sold his soul from the sounds of it... She introduced herself with a friendly grin.

Lily nods at Kate's comments in the hall. Yes. It is a true and wretched mess. One I think I will be staying out of...I wouldn't worry about Penny. She seems fierce enough she gives a grin.

Meanwhile Lily listens to Kitty and gives a laugh of amusement. Oh I'm sorry, I meant poor in circumstance rather than revenue she chuckles. Though honestly I'm not exactly swimming in riches myself. All I have I owe to the Men of Letters and that's not something to feel unworthy of. Risking your life to save humanity should have some benefits right? she strides forward and shakes your hand firmly. Well, if you're game for it we can go and find out just what your father has been up to, if anything. I'll be honest, it won't be a pleasant experience but if you are going to participate in this kind of life you'll have to dip your toes sometime. she turns to Kate then. Our friends could be awhile with their...discussion. If you're interested I could use another hunter along. I have some pressing questions for a crossroads demon and if something goes wrong I don't want to risk someone so green to only myself for protection. she smiles apologetically at Kitty. I don't mean green in a bad way I assure you. We'll have you out killing demons in no time if you think you're interested. Otherwise you can just become a book worm like most of the lot here.

ooc: If you guys decide to go, post your response and let me know of any last minute preparations and I'll move you ahead.

Kitty returned the smiles and hand shakes.

"Oh I'm as green as the grass, and I know it.  But that's ok, I am a fast learner, and I have picked up a few tricks in my time that may come in handy on occasion.  I can't honestly recall the last 'pleasant experience' I've had, apart from the very relaxing bath I just enjoyed.  I have been sheltered from your world, perhaps, but not the world of the common person, and have endured much that others have not.  I just want to be able to make a difference and help others so they don't experience the trials I have been forced to endure."

She wondered if she should ask for paper and pen, so that she could start taking notes.  It had been a long time since school, but she remembered when learning something new you always took notes.

"Sure I'll come along, but I have some things I need to take care of first." She didn't mention Mrs. Bentley's soul but Penny's mentioned plan was on her mind.

Simon entered the room as Lily offered to take the other ladies on a trip to summon a crossroads demon. As the discussion went forward he stood, blocking the doorway. Despite the inhumanity of Penny, being near Lily brightened his mood. "So, your going to summon a demon without me?" He was being a bit indignant but it was in a joking way. "If your planning on taking Queen Penny with you, please leave me out of it. Her majesty does not wish my company and I would rather not be in hers."

Kitty noticed, with some surprise, a priest come into the room and speak as if he was part of the group.  On a certain level it made sense: if there were such things as demons and monsters, perhaps on some level some of the things she was taught as a little girl were actually so; but Kitty had seen the worst of the worst slums in Edinburgh and London, and had seen the unenduring suffering of innocents, in sickness, poverty, misery, and want, and had seen no hand from above do anything to change their fortunes.  God could very well exist, if such creatures could too: but so far he was conspicuous only in his absence.

"'Queen' Penny?", asked Kitty in a hushed voice, "I assume the priest is being jocular.  You have no royalty in America, is that not so, or is everything I assumed I knew about this country completely wrong?"

Kate was surprised to see Father Simon join them so quickly. Obviously by his words he and Penny had not reconciled. For a man of God he sure didn't forgive easily. Though who knew what Penny had said in her defense. Honestly Kate was having a hard time seeing what the big deal was. "Queen Penny," She raised her fingers in quotation "saved my ass in 2013. I know it was a risk jumping the time portal but if she hadn't then I would be dead and you guys probably would be too."

She patted Father Simon on the shoulder. "Try not to be too judgmental, I'm sure you know a good scripture to apply here. He who is without fault cast the first stone or something on that line." She grinned. "I think I'll let you guys handle the crossroads tonight. I have some business to take care of and I think Penny was going to help me get a room at the hotel." with a quick wave she was out the door.

He looked at Kitty, "You'll understand when you meet her."

Then to Kate, "I'm surprised, she seems to have very little want for those of us in a common station. Perhaps you are different somehow. Perhaps its just men she hates. In any event we have decided that it is better if we do not have contact. You are welcome to her company."

He turned to allow her out of the room. As Kate left he stopped her one last time, "Do watch after her. Despite her feelings for me I still bear some affection for her. Not the sort she assumed, but I still do not want her injured or dead. I just do not think it best for either of us to share space. Oil and water and all that."

Lily looks surprised to see Simon back so quickly but recovers immediately though she looks a bit uncertain of how to react. Instead she turns to business as usual. No, you're right. No royalty here thank goodness. Uh...no offense. she adds. Well, seeing as how you're finished sooner than I had thought perhaps the three of us should go then. I'm sure Penny and Kate will be discussing other matters anyway... she looks awkward at having alluded to the argument. Now, Miss Kelly you should be aware that the first part of this attempt could go a bit trickily. I need to lure the thing into the trap and if it doesn't go well then so much the worse for us. Your own weapons won't be done for a while so I have some you can use in the meantime. I will need you and Simon to stay out of sight until I either signal it is safe or you see things fall apart in which case YOU should run and Simon should start shooting. Otherwise it won't be too risky I should think.

ooc: Let me know if you want to finish up anything before you go and she will also take you to the weapons room so feel free to grab anything you want.

Simon nodded, "I will bless ammunition or melee weapons to make them more effective."

He took Lily aside, "You need not worry. Neither of us were physically harmed, and my true affections...my love... is only for you." He nodded, hoping she understood him.

Lily listens with a relieved nod. Perhaps she was worried about how things transpired. At your last words she blushes and gives a small smile. Well after all that I think I believe you now. she shakes her head. We'll discuss it more when this demon business is done. she squeezes your hand warmly. Well...provided we live through it that is she adds drily.

He took her hand in his, grateful for the contact. "We will, if it is God's will." He did not let go, but turned to lead them both to the weapon's cache. Then he looked at Kitty, "I am sorry, Ms? I did not get your name. You look familiar to me, though."

Clearly there were inter-personnel issues bubbling under the surface with the group; Kitty thought it best not to inquire as she was new and did not want to get caught up in any squabbles so soon.

Instead, she replied to the priest.

"My name is Katherine Kelly, but I have always gone by Kitty.  I am Welsh by birth, but until recently I have been living, more or less, in Edinburgh, in Scotland.  I've only just come to this country, and have been living among the Irish immigrants in the Four Corners area, or wherever I can lay my head.  I think I may have seen you there, among the immigrants.  There are several church groups of different stripes who have missions in the Corners, where, I am sad to say, there is much need, as much as I have seen in London or Edinburgh.  Abject poverty seems to be the way of the world, apart from a select few.  Perhaps that is why these creatures thrive so, and are able to get away with it.  Unspeakable things that occur among the poor tend to get swept under the rug, for the most part, unless, of course, there are newspapers to sell".

As soon as she spoke the words, Kitty realized they were a tad more bitter than she'd expected, but she spoke from experience.

Simon smiled and extended his hand. "Ms. Kelly, I am Father Simon Cole. Most people call me Father or Padre." He nodded at her words. "Yes, Satan's greatest weapon is the free will God gave us. God gives wealth so that the wealthy can use it to help others. Far too often it causes instead greed for more wealth. Mr. Dickens published work nearly fifty years hence made some impact, but not enough." Referring to A Christmas Carol, "We, those of us here, are doing our small part and I am glad to have you amongst us."

He looked at Lily while continuing to speak with Kitty, "You may notice that I do not act like a normal Catholic Priest. I am Orthodox, which allows it's priests to marry. Please do not think less of me for it." He smiled at Lily. This was part of what he had meant by Song of Solomon. He held up a metaphorical banner over her so that everyone would know he loved her. "Sometimes things happen to give us hope. Perhaps this will give you hope as it has me."

Kitty nodded, remembering the tiny Russian orthodox minority who lived in Edinburgh, although those priests seemed much older, and all had beards.  She remembered they could marry, as did her own Catholic counterparts were once upon a time, and certain other Protestants, although she did not keep up with any of them.

"Father Cole", she asked, "will you be accompanying us on this mission?  and also, the other lady, the one wearing...well, I confess I know not what, she said something about 2013 - is that the address of where we will be going tonight?  Perhaps the room number of a hotel, although that seems an awfully high number..."

Simon turned back to Kitty, "Ms. Piper, and no. The answer is a bit complex. Ms. Piper well she came to us by magic from the year 2013. Its all very confusing."

He nodded to the door. "I believe Ms. Piper and Que...and Ms. Penny have some other errand."

Kitty visibly paled.

"Magic?  The year 2013?  As in the future??  I feel like such a fool - are all things now possible, or have they always been so?"

She could not help but wonder what life might be like a hundred years form now.

Simon gave Kitty a gentle pat on the shoulder. "It may take some getting used to, but God has sent you here to us for a purpose. We will help you find it."

ooc: Feel free to continue the conversation if you are not done, and when you are ready here is the continuation.

It is two hours later, you are standing in the crossroads outside of the city and the moon shines high above. Lily has carefully selected a place away from prying eyes and she has long ago finished her task, with your help of course. The Indian cleverly thought out a plan in which you removed part of the surrounding grass right next to the crossroad with flat shovels and placed the clumps in barrels which you stored in the wagon you took to get there. It was hard, messy work and she apologized profusely for it though it was clearly necessary. After the grass was carefully removed and tell tale traces raked away, she unrolled a black thin carpet with a devil's trap embroidered on it. Kitty, you recognize it as the same symbol from Ian's flat. Some of the women like to make these in their free time she explains, looking impressed at the carpet. It takes ages of work but they are wonderfully handy. I have no skill for embroidery myself though she shrugs unconcernedly. At this point she unrolls the rug in the area that you just cleared and then pulls out a second rug in which to cover it. To your surprise the second rug looks very much like grass and in the dark it is especially deceiving. This took even more work than the embroidery didshe laughs. It doesn't hold up well in daylight but in the dark it usually passes alright. She bids you help her unroll everything and after scrutinizing it a bit she seems satisfied. Alright, I'll summon the wretch and see if I can't get them to follow me here. If you see anything go wrong you come quickly. In the meantime keep hidden until I call you.

Once she's satisfied that you are all ready she waves you off and then takes a small box out of her pack and proceeds to bury it. By now you are far enough away it is difficult to tell exactly what she is doing but as soon as she is done a beautiful young woman suddenly appears in the center of the crossroads...

ooc: Roll hide/move silently/ and listen please

It was a beautiful moon-lite night at the crossroads outside of London.  Kitty did as she was told, although she could not discern why things were done as they were - her role was to watch and learn, so that's what she did.  She hide among the shadows and tried not to make any sound - something she was used to doing within a city, but never in the countryside, which seemed both easier and harder at the same time.

She was surprised to see a beautiful woman appear within the crossroad.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
(OOC: 11:19, Today: Kitty Kelly rolled 30 using 1d20+12. Hide. / 11:19, Today: Kitty Kelly rolled 19 using 1d20+10. Move Silently. /11:20, Today: Kitty Kelly rolled 26 using 1d20+8. Listen.)

---

Simon hide himself as best he could, keeping a watch and listen on Lily.

07:28, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 17 using 1d20+9. Listen.
07:28, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 6 using 1d20+1. Move Silently.
07:28, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 12 using 1d20+1. Hide.
Yea so Simon apparently cannot move silently for some reason. I have yet to roll higher than a 7 on one of those here. =-(

You are both able to make out most of what is said, though the conversation doesn't last long. The woman is dressed shockingly (well, perhaps not to Kitty), exposing much of her bosom and she looks at Lily with smug confidence. Well well well, aren't you a pretty one she purrs. Let me guess, with a face like that I'd say you have man troubles? before Lily can answer though Father Simon steps on a twig and the demon immediately spots him, looking enraged. What is this?! she snarls. Hunters?! she picks up Lily who goes flying backwards several feet. Fortunately she doesn't seem to have spotted the devil's trap waiting for her. The trick will be luring her onto it. Come out now pretty priest or I gut her she smirks at Lily who is starting to get up already. Oh you can try... the Indian growls defiantly, drawing her tomahawk. It doesn't look as though the demon has spotted Kitty yet.

ooc: Ok, go ahead and roll initiative and your first attack. She is currently out of range of melee attacks this round but you could move towards her within a round and get there if you wanted. Here's a quick map.


                 l     l
                 l     l
                 l     l   DT    L
-----------------       ------
                       x
-----------------       --------
                 l      l
                 l      l
                 l      l     wagon---
                              S    K
x= demon
DT= devil's trap
L= Lily
S=Simon
K= Kitty

Things were happening quickly; not for the last time did Kitty wish she had her trusty two-shot Derringer in her hand, but even so at this range it would have done her no good.  The revolver the group insisted on giving her felt alien in her hands, but she supposed it worked on the same principle as her small two-shot weapon.  If she had to use it Kitty felt it would do the job.

The demon-woman did not seem to have spotted her yet, so Kitty decided to bide her time and stay put for now.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
(OOC:10:01, Today: Kitty Kelly rolled 20 using 1d20+2. initiative. Kitty will hold her action)  Edited to show she took another weapon

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This message was last edited by the player at 15:39, Fri 19 Dec 2014.

ooc: Oooh, I hope I didn't forget to mention you could arm yourself before coming. In fact, they would have insisted, so even though your own weapons aren't ready yet you could borrow something similar for now. So just let me know what she would have taken and go for it when you are ready.

Simon moves out from behind his hiding place. He does not speak, but he watches the goings on.

The demon looks satisfied at your cooperation for the moment but Lily is already in motion. She sinks her tomahawk into the woman's collarbone even as she tries to tackle her. The demon looks absolutely shocked that she would be so aggressive and her eyes go wide as she realizes that the weapon can actually hurt her. Snarling in rage, the demon struggles with Lily, hitting her ribs so hard you can hear something crack. All the while the Indian is yelling in fury Simon! Get over here and help me! Kitty, go and get the carpet, now!!

Simon slid his brass knuckles into place and charged into the frey.

Move action, cross distance.
StA Punch with knuckles.
13:18, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 2 using 1d4+1. Damage.
13:17, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 7 using 2d6+3. AP.
13:17, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 9 using 1d20+6. Punch.

Total to hit = 16
Damage = 2

"Get the carpet"??  Kitty didn't know what that was going to do, but she did as she was told and ran towards the false grass.


(OOC: run to the carpet, start to drag it towards Lily)

By the time you both move over to the demon she has already tried to strike Lily again but she rolls out of the way in time, though her own retaliation misses. Simon, you barely miss the woman but at least now there are two of you against the thing. In the meantime Kitty, you start to drag the carpet towards the fray. It is a bit heavy but definitely moveable. We've got to get her on the carpet! Get it over here and help me! pants Lily. She starts to attempt to grapple the woman and indicates that the more the merrier is welcome...

Between Lily and Simon they are able to momentarily grapple the woman and the Indian instructs Kitty to lay it down and help them pull the demon onto it.

ooc: Roll a strength check please

Kitty struggled to get the carpet dragged over to where Lily and Father Cole were fighting the demon woman - Kitty felt extremely awkward trying to drag the carpet over, but she did as she was told - although in her heart she'd rather be shooting or knifing the thing.  But if the magic carpet worked, then so be it.

After she got it over she tried to help them pull the creature onto the carpet; she was ever aware, as she tried to man-handle the demon, that grappling was not her forte.

"There has got...to be an easier...way...to do this!"


(OOC: 11:18, Today: Kitty Kelly rolled 12 using 1d20. strength)

Fortunately the demon seems to be thrown off guard enough that the three of you manage to drag her barely onto the carpet and she gives a shriek of rage as the symbols do their work. You are pleased to see the seal does its job and she seems to be trapped in place, much to her fury. The woman's eyes turn completely red and she starts to threaten you. Let me out of here or I will rip apart your guts with my fingers! she growls. Lily, still out of breath from the effort and holding her ribs, gives her a triumphant sneer. You're not going anywhere and you know it. Now, we want answers and unless you want me to make this excruciatingly painful for you, I suggest you give them. Naturally the threat itself does not work until she begins to speak in Latin, which Simon recognizes as the beginning of an exorcism. The demon stiffens and quickly screams for her to stop at which point she will cooperate. What is it you want? she spits. First, tell me about her Lily points to Kitty. Does her father have a contract out? The demon squints, as if looking at Kitty for the first time and then starts to laugh. Hardly. I suppose the wretch doesn't even know who he really is she smirks. Why do you waste time with me when her father has much more blood on his hands than I do?

Lily frowns at the question and looks at Kitty uncertainly. What do you mean? The demon laughs in response. He doesn't have a contract out. He doesn't need one. That man makes his own deals. He is a member of the hand of Baal. It was he who created the Ripper and pointed him at his own daughter. This wench only escaped with her life because they had no more need of sacrifices she grins at Kitty. I heard he had a hard time choosing which of the two of you would make a better offering. It seems he found you wanting girl. Lucky for you. Naturally Kitty doesn't know anything about this hand of Baal, but hearing her father ordered her sister's death likely will not sit well.

Simon spoke up. "Tell us why your mistress is here and involved in all this."

The demon woman smirks. My mistress is the rightful queen of hell, no matter what some demons may think. Belial has struck a deal with her. If she helps him take the earth, he will restore hell back to her. She is eager to take him up on the offer.

Kitty felt coldness seep into her blood at the demon's words.  They could not be true.  She stared accusingly at the demon-woman.

"You're a liar.  How can we believe any words from such as you?".

She did not know what this Hand of Baal was, but it did not sound very good.

The beautiful woman looks at Kitty with cold, amused eyes. Believe me, don't believe me it matters not to me. I have no reason to lie though. Your family is mired in your father's dealings. Just be glad that he is an ocean away girl. He wouldn't be happy at your present company.

Kitty had to smile at that one.

"I doubt very much that father has ever liked any of the 'company' I kept; if anything, these folks are a huge step up in that department.  As for lying, well, if you are in fact a demon then you need no reason to lie, other than to sow discord at the very least.  I know my father has his black marks, all humans do, but I need more proof than the word of a creature from hell that my father would sell out his own flesh.  There is ambition, and then there is insanity."

Her father had always been ambitious; even as a little girl she had seen that.  But was he insane enough to make a deal with the devil, literally, even had he believed such things were possible?  Doubt nagged at her, but what other proof was there?  This creature might be a source of information, but how could she not consider that source tainted?

"I am sorry, but I have never heard of your so-called 'Queen of Hell', or this Hand of Baal organization either.  But if you exist that I suppose I have to believe that they exist as well, although for all I know you could all be a bunch of liars and lunatics, fit only for prison, or Bedlam.  What proof do you have of your words?"

My but you are a spirited one she laughs, though there is no mirth in it. I don't need to prove anything to you. You are nothing but a hairless monkey, a pile of animated worthless meat. If you want to know so badly go and ask him, see how quickly he guts you himself. she turns her back to you, instead addressing Lily. If you want to know anything more you will have to find someone else. I'm just a deal maker, I don't know everything. Only that hell will be Hecate's when all is said and done and I for one will be grateful for a real leader at last. And what of Belial? Do you know anything of him? Lily demands flatly. The demon smiles again. </DarkBlue>I know he is overconfident. He only has power because Hecate allows it. He thinks to use her as a pawn but she allows him to believe he is in a position of strength. Every witch in the world would choose loyalty to her over him, not to mention us crossroads demons.</DarkBlue> And what of the others? The shifters and other demons and any other nasty that has decided to throw their luck in with Belial? She could crush them if she wanted. But for now she will let Belial play at king, see what use she has of him. And how has her father fit in with Belial? The wench's father did come to me with a deal years ago, but he ended up being so wonderfully rotten that I let him trade his soul for his daughter's. Pretty unorthodox really, but he tricked her into it easily enough. Now he recruits humans for Belial. He's been very useful. He'll make a fine demon someday. she grins at Kitty mockingly.

Hairless monkey??  What kind of insult was that, Kitty thought, puzzled at the demon's insult.  But if the thing had anything to do with her father's foul deeds, then it was guilty too.

"If this is true, then my father must be stopped.  And so should you."

She pointed the revolver at the creature, and opened fire.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
(OOC: 10:40, Today: Kitty Kelly rolled 15 using 1d20+7. revolver. +5 base attack +2 Dex/weapon finesse)

---

Simon looked very upset. "Stop. What do you mean traded his daughter's soul for his own. Explain this."

Kitty barely misses the demon and suddenly she doesn't look so confident. Shaking with rage she lunges to the edge of her prison, red eyes blazing. Keep the wench under control or I tell you nothing more! she snarls, though she looks very upset at the near miss. You wanted the truth, that doesn't mean it was going to be pretty In answer to Simon's question she smirks again. A soul can be harvested you know, even turned into a demon if you twist at it long enough. William Kelly promised me a number of souls if I let him keep his. I agreed, provided he prove his loyalty to me by choosing someone of his own blood. Clearly he made his choice she eyes Kitty warily, expecting more fallout from the woman. Killing her was unnecessary, the body can live without a soul, not that it is truly living of course. The Ripper rituals tie in to Belial's plans. You'll have to ask him about that. she shrugs. Meanwhile Lily steps to Kitty and puts a gentle hand on her shoulder. I understand your anger Kitty, but right now answers are more important than killing her. You will be able to avenge your sister, I promise you that she says firmly.

When the Demon lunged at Kitty he stepped between them and used his Aspergillum to flick holy water onto her. "That was a warning. The next time I will not be so restrained. I have learned that a Last Rites ceremony can be quit unpleasant when used on your kind."

He paused as she answered his own question. "So this man bartered his own child. You said he was able to persuade her, please explain this."

The demon looks none too happy at Simon's actions, but recovers quickly. A soul can be stolen without permission, but someone had to pay the price in the end for his contract and do so willingly. He tricked her into giving it up. The fool didn't realize what she was doing, perhaps she thought the whole thing a farce so when he brought her to me she agreed laughingly, never realizing the fulness of her actions. A week later when he had the Ripper take her, his debt was most agreeably paid.

Deacon shuddered and looked a bit sickly. "I have nothing further for this demon. Do either of you have questions?"

"Only one" , replied Kitty, her anger smoldering, "when can I kill it?"

Deacon smiled, he admired Kitty's passion. "Killing the body will simply release the demon. Performing an exorcism amounts to the same. I have found that performing Last Rites may have a different outcome. If you two are willing I could perform that Rite now."

"I don't want that thing 'released', I want it destroyed, so it never again makes such 'bargains'.  Will your rite do that?""

Simon could not lie, "I honestly do not know. I have only done it once and the results were...energetic. I believe it may at the very least put them in a place where it is more difficult for them to return. A demon is not what you see, it is a being of spirit. I do not think it possible to destroy a being of spirit. Lily, Penny mentioned something about capturing the soul in a jar, do you know anything about that?"

The demon listens, growing furious. You said you would let me go! Liars! she snarls. Call me what you will but I ALWAYS keep my bargains! When I crawl out of hell I will gut you and everyone you ever loved! Judging by the rage on her face you have a feeling she will try to make good on that promise. Lily listens to Simon's question with a frown. I don't know if a soul can ever truly be destroyed. Exorcising them sends them back to the pit and it is very difficult to climb back out, though the more tenacious can do it she looks at the woman warily. And yes, I had heard there were ways to capture a human soul. The body is left alive with no morality or conscience and it can do terrible things while left on its own. The souls can be tormented and twisted until they become demons themselves, if left to it long enough. Though there are plenty of other uses for human souls. She turns to the crossroads demon. Why do they want souls? Surely you have an army large enough already. The woman glowers in response. I'll tell you nothing more.

Simon raised his hand, "Actually what Lily said was 'your not going anywhere now,' and 'we can make this very painful for you.' I believe it was you who said we would let you go, and I do not remember any of us agreeing to that. I remember Lily starting the Exorcism Rite. So if any deal was made it was - suffer pain now or tell us what we want to know. I believe we have kept our side of that particular bargain. Simply because you failed to specify what you wanted in exchange for the information does not make us responsible for your collateral assumptions.

Now if you wish to make such a deal I would suggest you put your terms on the table, clearly and concisely, before you say anything else."

"What I should like to know is how can someone bargain away a soul that does not belong to them - surely every person's soul is their own?  How can he give to this creature what does not belong to him, without consent?  I know a rotten fish when I smell it..."

The demon looks surprised at Simon's words, but glowers as she realizes the truth in them. Alright then priest. My terms are that you let me go. In exchange I promise I will not divulge any of this to my superiors. They would be most interested to hear how much you've already discerned. Think what you want of demons, but we always keep a deal when we make one. Lily nods thoughtfully, confirming this statement. At Kitty's words the woman continues. Yes, someone must be willing to barter their own soul, but that doesn't mean they cannot be tricked or cooerced into doing it. In your sister's case I recall a great deal of whiskey was involved, and I took a meatsuit that was more...appealing to her. She didn't really know what she was doing she shrugs. But the dotted lines were all signed so to speak so it satisfied the fine print.

Simon stood a bit straighter, squaring his shoulders and trying to make himself seem as large and male as possible. "I am not worried about what demons know of me. I have Him," Simon points up to Heaven, "on my side. The Bible says I have the authority to call down an army of angels, to bring dried bones to life, to call on fire from the sky, or simply to ask my Father to remove you from your meat suite. There is no scenario you can come up with where you are not exorcised. Your only choices are in how painful that exorcism will be." There is no attempt at deception in Simon's words.

"My counter offer, you promise to continue to answer our questions and when we have gotten every drop of information out of you I will perform a simple exorcism. The alternative is that you stop providing us with information and I perform the Last Rites instead." 

10:05, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 11 using 1d20+1. Intimidate.

"You got her drunk and you tricked her???  Oh, you cowardly, lying piece of filth!"

Barely able to suppress her rage, Kitty picked up the nearest rock and tossed it at the demon's head.

The demon dodges the rock easily and gives Kitty a chiding look. Don't get mad at me. Your father was the one who set her up. I was merely collecting on his deal. she smirks. At Father Simon's words she arches a cool eyebrow. I am not a mere deal maker in hell. I have connections. Whatever you do to me there will be consequences. In the meantime there's not much else I know anyway so do what you will. Her eyes are cold and challenging, filled with hate and yet the rest of her face is calm.

Simon knows the one thing all demons have in common is ego. If he could play her right he might get more out of her yet. "Ha! I've heard that one before. Threats from your kind always come with a boast. Hell doesn't send senior management to answer a minor call like the one Lily sent."

The demon looks furious at Simon's accusations. I am no mere deal maker priest. I have connections to Hecate herself. She has plans for me when all of this is through. I'll be sure that the first thing I do when I return to the pit is put a bounty out on all three of you!

Simon did not smile, but his eyes may have given him away, "Oh really? So your moving up then? What sort of plans would be in the works for an ordinary deal maker?"

All Kitty could do was listen, while her blood boiled.  If she could get her father within arm's reach she was not sure what she would do.

I won't be a mere crossroads dealer for long, that's all I will say she growls. Now since no deal can be made you may as well send me back. You'll get no more talk from me.

ooc: if you do exorcise her I will let you take a 20 but roll a concentration check to see how long it takes you.

Meanwhile Lily puts a sympathetic hand on Kitty's shoulder. I'm sorry you had to hear all that. I had no idea how bad it was. Are...you alright?

Simon nodded, "I will keep my end of the Bargain, and exorcise you as normal. I expect you will attempt some sort of reprisal, but know that God's divine light protects me and those I hold dear."

Taking 20

11:37, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 19 using 1d20. Concentration Check.

She stood with her arms crossed and her shoulders tensed, obviously not happy.

"I am fine; it is just frustrating to hear all of this, and be able to do feck-all about it.  I looked up to my sister: she was older than me, much more worldly, so much more daring and brave than I.  It sickens me that my own father had a hand in her terrible death.  The world is hard enough without such things as demons and power-hungry fathers selling their children to realize their blasphemous ambitions..."

Kitty had endured a rough life thus far, but clearly there were those who experienced far worse.  How many more?  Who knew the enormity of this shadow world that actively reached out and affected the lives of others blinded by the sun?  It was all so overwhelming.

"If demons themselves cannot be stopped easily, then it must begin with eliminating people like my father, who bring forth the demons into this world by their greed.  We should find out who else they have in their thrall, and where they might be."

We will, don't you worry Lily assures you. Though from what I understand your father is likely in Europe? We have sister factions dotted here and there and I know we have some in Britain. Perhaps we could wire them on the situation, have them keep an eye on your father. Also, you will want to talk to Penny. She is the one who dispatched the Ripper who killed your sister. She is a bit tied up at the moment but tomorrow I imagine you can talk to her, see what she may know. I don't think she realized that the killings were tied into all this. It's a surprise to me too actually.

Meanwhile as you speak, Simon begins the exorcism. Lily bids Kitty to pay attention and informs her that it is something she will be taught to do soon. Simon does a good job and though it takes several minutes the process goes smoothly, despite the demon's screams and violent protests. In the end though a black smoke is expelled from her mouth and disappears into the ground, leaving the woman's body to fall to the ground. Should you investigate she is dead.

Simon knelt beside the poor woman's body and checked her for a pulse. Finding none he crossed himself and said a silent prayer for her soul before returning to the ladies. "What is our next move?"

Lily looks down at the woman sadly. Well, I suppose we had best leave her for the authorities to find. I'll have Ian place a tip and make sure she's brought in. Hopefully she has family nearby who can claim her. In the meantime we should take the carpet and go report back to Victoria. I think this apocalypse is getting out of hand don't you? she turns to Kitty then. There's a few things you should know Kitty. There is a demon named Belial who is planning to bring about an early apocalypse. If he succeeds he will be master over this world and demons and monsters will be set loose in even greater numbers than they already are. He uses his own followers but he has also manipulated a cult called the Hand of Baal, lying to them and saying he is supporting their master and trying to bring HIM into power when in actuality he will use it for himself. We are trying to stop him. The problem is that every nasty thing out there is eager to help him because they know success will mean freedom for them. We'll become nothing more than livestock for evil to feed on. You've fallen into quite a mess my friend. she shakes her head. But there is hope. I've been told there may be someone who can provide us with a weapon against all this. Two of our best agents are working on that as we speak. Call me an optimist, but I still think we have hope she smiles reassuringly. She turns to Simon then. Nice work with the exorcism by the way, though we should all watch our backs. I think she means to make good on her threat.

Before she could even take in the new information about Belial and the Cult of Baal, Kitty's mind whirled around the news that the Ripper was dead.

"A moment, please: the Ripper is dead?  By someone from your organization?  How?  When?  This is...I mean...of course, this is good news.  I only wish he had been dispatched earlier.  So he too was a demon, or something manipulated by them?  I wish I had killed him myself."

It was a lot to sort through: she was glad the Ripper was killed, but any dreams she had of vengeance for her sister, no matter how remote or childish, had been accomplished by someone else.  She decided she could easily live with that - and besides, there was still the matter of her father, he who sold her sister's flesh and soul for his own gain, to deal with.  He was the real Ripper, only the kind that did not make headlines.  Kitty vowed that she would make him make the headlines, alright, one way or another.

"I have already been subject to use by the whims of others; I shall not allow that to happen to me again; nor anyone else, if I can."

Actually she just joined our group recently. She went after the ripper all on her own. From what she tells us, he was an ordinary man, though if the demon is to be believed he may have had some unnatural motivations...We shall have to speak with her tomorrow, see what she can tell us. she frowns. I am glad you are so committed to the cause now, but you've had quite a shock and it is dangerous work you get into. Do you know how to fight? Defend yourself? I'm trying to decide if you would be a better hunter, like me, or if you would be safest in the library doing research on how to stop Belial and learning how to use spells and such.

Simon nodded and gave smile at the compliment. "I agree, she will try. God will protect us."

ooc: Ok, so go ahead and finish up here and let me know your plans the rest of the night. By now it's getting pretty late. Also let me know your plans for the morning. I'm thinking Kitty will want to talk to Penny about the ripper so I'm trying to line things up in that direction. If I'm wrong of course let me know.

"I can defend myself, if I have to; no offense, but library work does not appeal to me.  I am swift of foot, sneaky when I need to be, and am good at hiding and being silent.  I like to find things out, and go to places I am not supposed to be.  That is probably the incorrigible side of my nature that has lead me along the path I am on now.  But I am who I am, and I am ready to help however I can."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:45, Tue 20 Jan 2015.

I thought perhaps you would like to be more hands on the native woman smiles. Glad to hear it. We'll keep you as safe as possible and try to prepare you for anything in the meantime. There are many training opportunities I can help you with. In the meantime I suggest we get some rest. I'll report to Victoria tonight and we'll regroup in the morning. Sound good?

Kitty, later that night as you drift off to sleep you have nightmares of your sister, the ripper and the dark man from your previous dreams. It is all a jumble and you can't make out any faces but you wake with a start, covered in sweat. There is a soft knock at the door. Breakfast has been left for you.

After leaving Penny Kate headed off to find Father Simon. Victoria had been vague as to where to find him so she resorted to peeking into open doors and asking if anyone had seen him.

Depending on when she is looking for him, Kate might find Simon having a quiet dinner with Lily, pruning Victoria's garden, or he has retired to the local Abby.

Ooc: since it is morning I'm thinking the garden is good.

Garden it is...

Simon is currently pruning flowers and humming When the Saints Go Marching In.

"Good morning," Kate found Simon in the garden hard at work. "Victoria suggested I come and find you since Penny will be tied up for a while." She took a seat on a nearby bench and watched him pruning the flowers. "Did we miss anything exciting while we were gone?"

Simon smiled brightly, "Ah, Ms. Piper. A wonderful surprise to have your company this morning. Yes, Ms. Green gave her permission for me to prune her garden so that I might have something nice to give Lily." He stepped back, sheers in hand, looking at the large and growing basket of flowers. "I've no idea which are her favorite. I forgot to ask. A faux pax on my part, yes?"

"While you were gone?" He thought about the question. "Lily and I went out looking for trouble. We encountered a demon claiming to be Hecate, Queen of the crossroads. I asked for and received permission from my superiors to call a crossroads demon for interrogation."

He sighed, "We believe that Ms. Green's Father might be an impostor. There is a lot of that as I understand it. He sent people to follow us, we caught one of them...its all a bit of a muddled mess."

He stopped and looked, "What do you think, more roses or perhaps some of her namesake? So small is my experience with the opposite sex."

He went back to the topic at hand. "I get the impression that I am still not privy to all the politics going on about here. There is likely more to all these stories but I do not know it. We raised that demon last night. It confirmed that Hecate is indeed involved in all of this. How do demons keep their own politics straight?"

Kate blinked in surprise. "For Lily huh?" She grinned, "I'd say we missed a lot if you are picking flowers for Ms. Lily. Roses," she added "giving her name flower just seems cliche."

She sat for a moment enjoying the atmosphere of the garden. "So we can add Hecate to the list of bad guys," she mused thinking of their own meeting with Crowley. "I don't even want to get into demon politics. I think a lot of them are just brown nosers. They'll probably side with whoever gives them the best chance to gain power." She pulled a rose off it's bush and held it up to her nose.

"I can bring you up to speed on what I know if you'd like. But we should probably be careful talking around here. You never know who might be listening."

He nodded to her statement about roses. A woman knew other women. He finished cutting another half dozen roses. "Yes, for Lily." He stopped himself as he thought of her again. "I prefer headstrong women...obviously...but I also hoped to find someone willing to accept the pitfalls of being with a man who lives under the vows I do. I suppose I was charmed by Penny to the point that I did not see Lily. Once Penny left...and Lily and I worked together so easily things just kind of made sense." Once he had finished the flowers he sighed. "Likely overkill, but realize this is the most I am allowed to give her under my vow, so I should do my best when it comes to this at least."

He nodded fervently at her comment about demon politics, "Agreed. Demons are at best selfish creatures."

Since Kate wasn't bringing up Penny, neither would he any more than he already had. He looked at her when she made her cryptic statement about not being here. "If not here, where? Did you have some place in mind?"

"Wait...you're still under your vow? You cant..." Kate stopped short and grinned. "Good luck with that one." She didn't know Simon that well but she knew men, and Lily was pretty. He'd never make it. Standing she added her rose to the basket. "I'm guessing a walk would be good?"

Once they are out and about and sure they are not being followed she tells Simon about the events in 2013 starting Mrs. Bentley's soul and the apocalypse. "Belial killed Mrs. Bentley, which is part of what mucked up the time line. Penny and I have to find the body and put her soul back in and convince her to help us." She wrinkled her nose "He left her head at the hotel for us like some kind of sick game. Victoria is working on finding her body. In the meantime we have the case with her soul hidden, but there have been multiple attempts to steal in in 2013 and our Mr. Westbrook sent Fredrick for it last night." She added on that he was indeed a fake and they were hoping to use him to locate the real Westbrook if he was still alive. "Did I miss anything? I think that's everything..."

He smiled, almost laughed at her misconception. "A walk would always do me good. I fear I am too good an actor. I'm not a Roman Catholic Priest, though I grew up in the Roman Church and studied under the Jesuits, I met another priest of the Orthodox Order. He and I became good friends and our discussions of philosophy lead me to believe that I am a better fit for the Orthodox Church. Orthodox Priests do not take a vow of celibacy. We can marry once before becoming a Bishop, which is less than a Bishop in the Roman church but more than a priest. I live only under the God Ordained way of marriage, that we should all remain pure before accepting that Sacrament. So you see the vow I was speaking of was the vow of poverty. Poverty is far more troubling for women, in many instances, than celibacy. At least that is what I am told mind you."



He nodded, "So the temporal order has been disturbed." He looked far off, "And we must attempt a resurrection to put it back in order." He was moving the prayer beads through his hand quickly. "How can I be of assistance?"

Something stuck Simon suddenly as he had just remembered it. "The Demon said something else too. It was off handed, as if she did not really mean to divulge the information. She said they were going to use the 'Ripper Ceremony'. That is how she put it. It seemed ominous, and if Penny's suppositions regarding the Ripper are correct, the demons might be trying to make another like him...or more than one. Shudder that thought."

"Oh! I had no idea. I just assumed you couldn't... well that's so nice." Kate felt a little awkward discussing these things with Simon, especially since she'd been incorrect in assuming he was celibate. "A vow of poverty huh? Well Lily is Native American so I don't think she'll mind. If I remember my history classes right they didn't have much anyway."

Moving on to more important subjects..."Big time," Kate agreed to Simon's mention of the temporal order being disturbed. "Death himself brought her soul to us and told us what we needed to do. Right now we just have to wait for Victoria to find her body. I've never brought anyone back from the dead, have you?"

She frowned at the mention of a 'Ripper Ceremony' "Penny will not like that! She's a woman that's seen a lot of evil but I get the feeling the Ripper is a sensitive case for her. I'd hate for her to have to relive the past again."

ooc: Please roll a spot you two...for time's sake if you get a roll of 15 or higher you happen to see a bit of disturbed earth in the garden. Subtle but still visible and a bit curious. If you don't make the roll, continue with your conversation ;P

Spot: 8 Bah!!! I'm going to die of curiosity now!!!

Simon shook his head to her question about bringing someone back. "No, I understand it is possible, the apostle Peter is said to have performed this miracle more than once. In more recent times I understand it has been done as well by powerful practitioners."

He nodded at her statement about Penny and the Ripper. "I brought it up for that very reason. I know you will find a way to tell her so that it will soften the blow. Ms. Kelly is equally distraught by her Father's actions. According to the demon her Father sold the daughter's, Ms. Kelly's sister, soul for his own power. She was understandably upset by this."


He looked at Kate carefully, "My own ability to comfort others aside, Lily took her and I think made her feel somewhat better. Other than waiting on this ceremony, what have you planned now that you have returned to our time?"

"Yeah that's pretty messed up," Kate muttered in response to the new information about Ms. Kelly's dark family background. "No wonder she wanted to talk to Penny..."

She shrugged at Simon's question as to her plans. "I think I'm just here to fix the mess we made. I'm a little nervous about doing much more. Though an apocalypse in the future is pretty bad. We probably can't do much more damage to the timeline."

Simon had something in mind. "Could you do me a favor? I put Penny's things in a box at the Western Union. They were to remain at the local office for twenty eight more days I believe. I  Sent them to your home in Portland, though it would do little good there. I would appreciate it if you would accompany her there and...retrieve a note I left with her things. It was written in anger and I regret it. I would rather she never read it."

Kate winced, "you didn't by any chance write two notes did you? Because if not she already read it in 2013. Western Union is amazing!" She added with forced cheerfulness. "She was really ticked off," Kate patted Simon's shoulder in sympathy. "And she strikes me as a lady who can hold a grudge..."

Now Simon is confused, "No only one." He stopped, "Yes, amazing..." He seemed to consider something, "I left specific instructions, did you receive it at your home?"

He inhaled, "In any event, this will require an apology on my own part. I think it must be done in person. Can you show me to her? I have some crow to eat."

Kate frowned. Penny's things had somehow found their way to her hotel, which was a long way from Portland Oregon..."It came to our hotel actually. That's really strange. It was a miracle they even held onto it for so many years and were actually able to deliver it. But how did they know where to find us? We were nowhere near my apartment... not even in the same state!"

Kate nodded in agreement, "yes an apology is a good idea. I believe she's talking to Kitty right now about the ripper so now may not be the best time. Maybe give them a few minutes and I can have her meet you somewhere? The garden again?"

He gave a nod to Kate, "Yes, the garden would be fine. I will deliver Lily's flowers and then return here. That should give you ample time. If you find her disagreeable to the meeting, return and I will write her a note."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:41, Mon 02 Feb 2015.

Late agreed and then headed off to find Penny. She was sure to take her time, not wanting to interrupt their conversation.

Simon dropped off his flowers at Lily's door, with a nice love note as well. Once done he went back to the garden and searched around for a stick. When he found what he was looking for he took his white handkerchief and tied it to one end. "Flag of surrender," he muttered to himself, "hopefully she sees the humor in it."

Simon: As you rummage about for a stick you don't see anything unusual in the garden. Victoria's garden is in a small plot of earth out back from the men of letters warehouse, surrounded by a tall wooden fence with a gate to keep passerby from noticing the bit of greenery in the otherwise dilapidated area. As you tie the handkerchief to the stick you see a middle aged woman approach the open gate looking alarmed at the sight of you. You recognize her as one of the cleaning women for the Men of Letters, though she looks displeased to see you here. Uh...good day father! she suddenly puts on a bright smile making you wonder if you didn't just imagine her previous discomfort. Fine morning to be outside isn't it?

Kate: You go in search of Penny but judging by the closed door and low voices from Kitty's room, they are clearly not finished with their conversation. You give them a little distance and you see Ian approach from down the hallway, a pleased grin on his charming face. I heard you were back he smiles. Couldn't bear to stay away from me eh? he winks to let you know he's joking.

Simon kept his face friendly, "My child, how can I help you this morning?"

"Well you know, they don't make them like they used to," Kate flashed a smile thinking of Dalton's average looks and nerdy glasses compared to Ian's devastating handsomeness. It still hurt to think about her fiance's betrayal but she was starting to get over it. Being over a hundred years apart helped. "I guess you guys couldn't get along without me," she added.

Simon: The woman waves off the question. Oh I need nothing from you good father she smiles. I only wanted a few herbs for the cook is all, I'll only be a moment. she carries a woven basket and enters, quickly grabbing a few pinches of herbs here, a few other things there. Her eyes, however, shift over the garden searchingly as she does though once again it is so fast you wonder if you imagined it. She stands up with a smile, ready to leave. Well, I'm off then. Good luck with your pursuit of Lily by the way. I saw the flowers by her door, you'll have a fine time trying to tame that one she laughs. She is all warmth and humor, as though you are old friends rather than two people who have spoken for the first time. It's hard to say if this is friendliness or nerves.

Kate: ooc: Devastating handsomeness is a wonderful and hilarious description ;P

Ian laughs at your joke, his grin lighting up his handsome face. Apparently not! Things have gone to ruin in just the few days you were gone! But then I'm sure you've already heard about that. His face grows serious then. There's all manner of rubbish afoot here. And what's this rumor about the priest and Lily? Is that just hearsay or do I need to be worried? I know he's a priest and all, but Lily is like a sister to me he frowns disapprovingly.

Simon decided to try a little emotional sleight of hand with her. Everyone knew Priests master reading people anyway so it should not be so much of a shock. "My good woman, why are you so nervous? I mean you no harm. What interests you in the garden behind me?"

The woman pales at your words but quickly recovers, as though she was never upset. Oh nothin at all Father! I'm not nervous, just...excited at meeting so formidable an agent or so they tell me. As for the garden, well, I lost a bracelet the other day and was just making sure it wasn't here. I already looked once you see, but I thought a second peek would do no harm. Clearly it is not about though. It's probably inside somewhere the grin returns. ooc: Roll sense motive. If you get above a 10 you find her words suspicious...

He smiled, remaining calm. "My dear Lady, I am am good at some things, and one of them is hearing when words do not ring true. Things here are very tense, so why don't you try the truth."

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
12:09, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 24 using 1d20+12. Sense Motive.

---

The woman scowls at your words and steps inside, closing the gate. All pretense of friendliness is gone and she raises a hand at you as you suddenly feel a force clamping around your heart...

ooc: Fortitude save please and feel free to roll an attack ;P

Simon reacted by attempting to dispell the magic being used against him.

10:15, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 11 using 1d20+3. fort save.
Cast Dispell Magic on the spell being used against him.

"He likes her and he's bringing her flowers," Kate admitted with a shrug. "Seems innocent enough though I guess they'll be poor if they get together. I'd let Lily worry about it," she added. If the woman wanted to be with Simon then that was her choice.

Simon: Unfortunately the demon's abilities don't seem to be affected by your spell. You feel your body twist and tighten under an unseen pressure, like someone is trying to rip you apart. At least now you know the creature IS a demon, which helps narrow down your method of attack. Fortunately the pain is bearable...

Kate: Ian listens with a dubious frown but lets the subject drop. And how are you faring with everything then? We must all seem a boring lot to someone from the future he grins. You talk as you walk, not wanting to linger outside of Kitty's door and you do rounds of sorts, walking in a pattern as you wait for the women. As you walk you notice several devil's traps and other such wards drawn on the floor. These people take precautions! ooc: Roll spot please Kate

The pain ground against him but he endured it. He knew now he was dealing with one of the unclean, a Demon and he knew how to deal with their kind. He stood his ground, holding up his crucifix, "You have no power here."

He cast Crown of Glory, and then made his three suggestions, "Sit in that chair, please. Do not move, please. Tell me the truth, please."

Cast Crown of Glory

The demon flinches and squirms for a moment under your suggestion but unfortunately is able to shake it off. She gives a mean laugh. I am too powerful for your tricks priest she smiles chillingly. And now you die she raises her hand again and the rending feeling returns...

Simon grimaced and drew his pistol. He fired at the demon, point blank.


14:34, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 7 using 1d8. Damage.
14:34, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 13 using 1d20+10. Pistol Shot.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:35, Thu 12 Feb 2015.

"Trust me, it's not boring" Kate said as she examined a devil's trap on the floor.

OOC: spot 17

Simon: You barely miss and the demon looks furious at your attempts. She starts to move towards you but suddenly the gate to the garden opens and you see Lily gape at the scene though she quickly recovers and unsheathes a long bladed knife. The demon uses her power to hurl a bench at the Indian but Lily dodges easily. I come to thank you for the flowers and here I find you with another woman? she grins teasingly though her green eyes glitter with focus.

Kate: At first it looks like a normal devil's trap. But something seems...off. As you scrutinize it further, looking for what caught your attention you realize that the edge of one sigil is just barely missing, like someone painted over a mere centimeter of the form but this could be enough to render it useless...You can't help but wonder if all the traps are dismantled this way. If that is the case then who knows what could be lurking these halls in disguise.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:23, Fri 13 Feb 2015.

The only outward sign of his distress was a trickle of blood from his nose. He was prepared to face the full brunt of this creatures renewed attack, when he heard Lily. He turned as the demon turned  and then as the bench hurled he became incensed. "NO!" He stepped up to the creature, risking being that close, and pressed his revolver to her temple. His next bullet hit its mark.

10:56, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 7 using 1d8. Damage.
10:56, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 27 using 1d20+12. Point Blank + Flanked.

Kate cursed softly, "this isn't going to do any good," she muttered pointing it out to Ian. "We need to let Victoria know asap. If the others are like this then who knows what's gotten inside already." Quickly she moved to the next trap to see if it was the same.

Father Simon: You do hit the demon but she wiggles enough that it grazes her rather than kills. With two of you now she starts to rethink her tactics. Lily lunges towards the demon with her knife but she misses as the woman uses her power to slam the Indian out of the way. She makes as if to run...ooc: Another round please

Kate: Ian swears when he sees it. I can't believe I missed that! Good catch! he looks impressed. To your dismay you see that they are all like that. The place could be crawling with evil for all you know. I have a thought he muses. We could fix them, it could be a good way to see who is and who isn't a demon. They would simply walk across and trap themselves!

Simon tries again, but his shot seems destine to fail.

19:56, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 12 using 1d20+10. Pistol Shot.

"I was thinking the same thing," Kate agreed. "Let's get to work!" She suggested they split up working from opposite ends to meet in the middle.

Father Simon: The shot misses and the demon rushes out of the gate though Lily also misses as she hurls another blade at the woman. Growling in frustration the native woman races after her. You coming? she calls out with a grin already tearing after the demon. ooc: Constitution check please to see if you keep up, that is if you even wish to pursue

Kate: He bids you to take care not to be seen and suggests getting the sigils by the entrance and exits first so that if nothing else they might be trapped inside headquarters at least. We are about to stir up a very big hornets nest girl. Be careful. Also, just because it stops demons doesn't mean it will stop everything. There may be a few that slip through the cracks. Don't trust anyone you don't already. he says soberly. Good luck. He heads off nonchalantly towards his end of headquarters. He has provided you with the paint and things you need and fortunately they are easy enough to hide. The halls are fairly busy this morning so it is a challenge to find the proper privacy. When it does come you must move quickly before anyone happens upon you. There will be no mistaking what you are doing if you are seen...

11:57, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 19 using 1d20-1. Con check to run after.

He nodded and took out to give chase to the creature. "Right behind you Lily."

AS you give chase the demon dodges this way and that, desperately trying to evade you. Both Lily and yourself are quick on your feet today and as you catch up the woman realizes she's done for. She stops immediately and opens her mouth, emitting a violent black smoke that escapes into the air as the woman's body falls lifeless to the ground. Lily starts to swear but catches herself and instead gives a frustrated growl. That was Prudence! How could Prudence be a demon? We have wards, devil's traps! she exclaims in confusion.

Simon stopped with Lily. He was dizzy from the punishment he had taken over the last several days not to mention whatever this creature had done to him. He wiped the blood off his nose, "Ineffective, obviously. I think I need to sit down..." He dropped onto his bottom on the ground.

Kate saluted Ian and then headed off to start correcting devils traps. She made sure to try to stay out of sight.

ooc: hide 20 (8+12)

Simon: Lily looks at you worriedly and drops down with you grabbing your face and peering into your eyes a moment before she investigates the rest of your wounds. Take your time there's no hurry. she says comfortingly. Once you're ready we'll head back and patch you up. Any idea why she attacked you? she puts her hand in yours.

Kate: You do an excellent job of staying hidden and you manage to correct most of them in your given corridors. Things are about to get messy...Indeed as you finish with the last one you hear a scream of rage down the hallway. Should you investigate you find not one but THREE people apparently trapped on the same devil's trap! Further shouts and exclamations down the hallways only indicate more are being added...

Simon shook his head. "I've an idea. She seemed to be out of place. From the shed she kept looking into that area," he pointed, "and when I questioned her she seemed to be evasive. She evaded my questions. It did not take long for her to fold her disguise and attack me." He forced himself to stand. "I should retrieve my flag of surrender, for Penny of course. I don't want her to try and strike me again. She was to come out and try to smooth things over once again."

Once flag is retrieved he agreed to follow Lily for some kind of resuscitation.

Lily listens with a frown. Odd...Well there had to be a reason. I'll look into it after I drop you off at the infirmary she offers. When she hears about Penny she gives a pleased grin. That is wonderful news! I do admire strong women after all she laughs. Just as long as you don't go around giving HER flowers she has a teasing tone of voice and she takes your arm. I was very happy to get those by the way, thank you she adds.

He smiled through his pain, "I would never give anyone flowers other than you." He pointed out the area again, "That was the area that had her attention. If you are investigating, do not do so alone. I tried that, and you see the outcome."

Lily listens with a nod, looking satisfied about the flowers. I'll keep that in mind she informs you though part of you wonders if she's too stubborn to take your advice. She is a very independent sort and you can see it's all she can do right then to keep from running back and investigating she seems so eager. She changes the subject though, chatting about the demon's possible motives as she helps you down the ladder and back into headquarters. As you start down the corridors though you hear pandemonium. Upon closer investigation you see handfuls of people seemingly fixed over devils traps and looking none too pleased about it. What in the world?! Lily exclaims.

Simon looked stunned as well. "I've no idea. I would surmise that we have been infiltrated in a far more complete way than previously suspected."

Kate grinned at the three trapped before her, "got your hand caught in the cookie jar eh?" Her weapon was already out and ready just in case.

Lily nods, looking worried. Good heavens is there anyone left or were they all demons!? she hisses. Fath- uh...Simon, do you think you could start to exorcise them? I don't see how we could get through the hallways with demons blocking every step. I will see if the east hall is any better and do the same on my end. The sooner we clear this up the better. she shakes her head. If any of them are miraculously alive after they are freed gather them somewhere for questioning. I want to know what's going on. She turns to go. ooc; I'll let you take a 20 on the exorcisms but roll a concentration check to see how long it is going to take you.

Kate: The trio look furious and they test the constrains of the devil's trap but it holds them firm. If you swear not to exorcise me, I will tell you anything you want! one of them offers fearfully. In the meantime everything is chaos throughout the halls and you hear shouting from both trapped and untrapped people. Things are really quite a mess.

Simon nodded and despite his obvious pain he took out the tools of an exorcism and began.

Take 20 on Exorcism roll.

14:55, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 9 using 1d20-1.

Between your wounds and the taunts and curses of the demons it is long and arduous work. You are only able to get through a few so far and it is taxing on you. So far most of the previous demons have fortunately survived the ordeal though a few drop dead as soon as the demon is clear. You have at least given yourself some room to maneuver a bit more and you can choose which direction to go now whether that be towards Lily or deeper into the headquarters.

Simon saw fit to let Lily on her own. She was far more capable than anyone gave her credit for and he was not about to get in her way. Instead he delved deeper into the complex, looking for more mess to take care of. He was thankful for the ones who lived, as always and mourned the ones that died. He would return and pray over their bodies once this disaster was averted.

You find mess a plenty and soon run into Kate who is seemingly questioning a group of demons who stand between you and her, blocking the way with the devil's trap...

ooc: I'm hoping to transfer you two to the other thread soon to join the others in the mess. Just giving you a head's up! :)

Simon looked terrible. He was exhausted, and still bleeding a little from the nose. "Ms. Piper, good to see you. We've a mess here. Lily is off in the other direction and I am trying to exorcise as many as possible. Its interesting, though, that you are interrogating them. Have you found anything out?"

Kate smiled, "alright if you tell me everything you know we'll let you go." She waited patiently.

"Wow! what happened to you?" She asked when father Simon arrived on the scene. He looked awful. "This one was nice enough to offer some information if we spare him." Really she had no intention of letting him go and hoped Simon would go along until they got the information needed.

He gave Kate a smile, through it all his spirits remained high. "Oh you know, one of their kind tried to devour my soul. Lily was there to stop it, thank God." He nodded, "Get what you can and then we will send him along."

The demon looks frantic. You must swear it to me he insists. Both of you! he looks at Simon for confirmation. The interesting thing is that with the devil's trap blocking the path. The only way to get through to Kate is to exorcise them, that or risk stepping into the trap with them and putting yourself in the clutches of angry demons...Meanwhile the other demons in the trap seem eager to place a deal as well.

ooc: If you are going to bluff then roll such please :D

Simon smiled broadly, but remains silent. He has no intention of lying, figuring they would see right through it anyway.

"Don't pay attention to him. He'll do as I ask," Kate assured. She prayed that Simon kept his mouth shut. "I swear if you tell me everything I will not exorcise you guys. The lie came easily and if Simon had a problem with it he could do the exorcism himself making her lie a truth.

ooc: bluff 27 (20+7)
This message was last edited by the player at 05:36, Fri 27 Feb 2015.

One of the demons seems wary but the other two believe Kate and quickly agree to her terms. It was Belial who sent us, after he had Westbrook replaced! We were supposed to sabotage any resistance and report back on your efforts against us. We've been trying to find the scrolls you took to raise up the rest of his army but so far it has eluded us one of them admits.

"And is Westbrook still alive?" Kate asked trying to sound uninterested.

The demon shakes his head. No. He couldn't be allowed to live. His head is buried in Victoria's garden, not that she is aware of it he adds drily. He looks worried to have confessed this, as though afraid it will hurt his chances of being released.

Simon chimed in, "That is what preoccupied the maid. She was afraid I had found the evidence."

A little late for secrets now I suppose he notes bitterly. You may as well know, you can't win. Look how easily we overtook your base. If the others have the same fate we do then half your men are dead. What can you possibly hope to accomplish? If you value your lives I would leave the city and never come back. You can't stop Belial anyway you may as well enjoy the time you have left.

Simon just shook his head, "Your kind have been saying that since Adam's fall and yet humanity remains. You know I think you are all afraid of us. If you were so confident in your victory then why try and take us anyway? I will take half a company of the Men of Letters over ten companies of your kind."

Kate frowned, unhappy at the news that Westbrook was truly dead. "I'm not concerned about Belial. If he's dumb enough to entrust you guys to carry out his plan he's sure to loose." She smiled at Simon, "We can go ahead and exorcise them whenever you're ready."

Simon smiled and began the Rite. He was happy with Kate and would of course take her confession later.

The demons naturally are unhappy about this news and they threaten you quite vehemently, swearing to crawl out of the pit and wreak their revenge. As you are finishing up Lily joins you looking on edge. Good to see you're safe Kate she nods. I've cleared two halls so we have some maneuverability at least. We need to find Victoria and the others. This is serious business, half our company will be lost at this rate. she looks angry. These people were my friends. Belial will pay for this.

ooc: If you decide to look for the others please roll a search check

Simon looked at Lily sadly, "It seems likely that we have lost Westerbrook. Perhaps we should confirm by searching his office?"

10:42, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 14 using 1d20+5. Search.

She gives a start at this and looks sad. I see she murmurs. A-alright. She is visibly shaken. Along the way you find scores of slumped over dead, all within the devil's traps. Others must have taken to exorcising the demons as well. Dozens of frightened members crowd the hallways looking upset and panicked. Seeing Lily they rush up to her for guidance as she is one of the higher ranking members of the organization. She gently informs them to gather in the great room and wait for her or Victoria. And someone go and investigate Victoria's garden. There's supposed to be something there we weren't meant to see. she adds. They rush to obey, happy to have some direction.

ooc: I'm just giving Kate a chance to post and the others to move along a bit farther before you catch up to them, for timing's sake ;P

Alright, to Westbrook's it is then. she looks determined. Along the way you find dozens of the dead, slumped in the devil's circles and what's worse many of the living are clearly grieving over their lost friends. With every death Lily's face grows more pinched and her jaw is set with anger and grief. Someone will be paying for this...

When you make it to Westbrook's office you find it unlocked and Lily draws her pistol before entering first at her insistence. The room itself looks to be in perfect order though Lily points out a carpet on the ground that is a bit tussed. Looks like someone's been down the passage she points out. It's for emergencies, I'm sure whatever Westbrook is now, he must have discovered it too. she turns to both of you. This is not your fight. What he did is personal and who knows what is waiting for us on the other side. I think you should stay here, find Victoria, help the others. They could use the comfort of a priest right now. Her tone is firm and surprisingly cold yet her green eyes blaze with fury in spite of the calmness of her voice. This is not the explosive woman you've come to know but almost a different woman entirely. You don't sense you are in danger from her but there is something chilling just the same.

He nodded, knowing he was too injured to go with her. It made him sick, but he knew she was strong and could take care of herself. "Don't take any unnecessary risks, please."

Then he went to give comfort to those who remained alive.

"I'm going," Kate said equally as firm. "Even if it's only for back up," she added sympathetically. Clearly Lily was upset and though she didn't know the woman well it would be a shame if something bad happened to Simon's new girlfriend. "I will stay out of the way."

Lily doesn't answer Simon but gives him a twitch of a smile and then turns to enter the trap door motioning for Kate to follow. Fine, but if things get bad you run understand?

Simon: As you head back to comfort the others you find they are most grateful to see you. Many of them are distraught and grieved and they gather to you instinctively. You end up in the great room where Lily instructed everyone to join and it is full of about fifty members or so, quite a blow from what there should be. As you do your best to soothe the others eventually you see Victoria come in holding a box covered in dirt. Her hands are shaking and she looks to be in intense shock.

Kate: You crouch in the long tunnel which is dark but remarkably tidy as the entire thing is made of stone and other than a great deal of dust it is unoffensive. Lily lights the way with matches, her face set and intense. She winces as though in pain and you gather from the way she rubs her forehead from time to time she has a headache. You should know something Kate she says flatly as she leads the way carefully. My head is buzzing and when my head is buzzing I sometimes black out and when I sometimes black out...things die. I don't know if it will happen again, I'm trying to fight it. Just...be wary of me. This is why I didn't want you to come. she winces again. I don't know what happens or how just that whatever opposed me is dead. You may be fine I don't see you as a threat but just in case...

Kate produced a flashlight from her pocket and flicked it on. "I'll keep out of the way," she assured Lily. She was thinking it would have been nice if the woman had informed her of her black out killing sprees before they were crammed together in the tunnel.

Simon goes about providing what comfort he is able. He listens mostly as he finds people are unburdened by telling their troubles. Victoria brought in a strange and dirty box. Simon knew what was inside without even asking. He sat the box on a table. "Don't look, Victoria." He opened the box...

Kate: Lily swears in shock at the flashlight then covers her mouth in horror for a split second before relaxing again. Oh that's right he's not here You realize she is talking about Simon. What is that? I need to get one.

Suddenly you are interrupted by the sounds of a struggle overhead. You sure you're ready for this? I don't know what's up there.

Simon: Too late she chokes with a whimper. You've never seen the woman like this, absolutely broken. As you open the box you are not surprised to see it is Westbrook's head, messily severed as though it had been torn off rather than cut. His eyes are still open and he looks to have been there for a few days at least. Victoria sinks to her knees, shaking. Meanwhile the other members of the group start to gather towards you asking what is the matter and what is in the box.

Simon closed the box and held up his hands, indicating the others should give he and Victoria room. He went down, kneeling in front of her. He put his arms around her to try and comfort her. He spoke so that only she could hear him, "It was a good death. They could not possess him so they sought to lay claim to his soul by burying him in an unconsecrated grave. We will rectify that. We will and his soul will rest. You must be strong now, the others will look to you for leadership. It will be difficult, but God never gives us more than we can handle. Lean on your friends, we are here for you."

Victoria hugs you back tightly and wipes at the tears running down her face. After a long moment she nods shakily. T-thank you father. For everything. she stands then and avoids looking at the box, instead headed towards the center of the room. She addresses everyone. Alright, it looks like we've been hit hard. We need to document everyone who died and double check all wards and traps. This place must be secure again. Everyone will be tested thoroughly, the whole gamut. Everything from ghouls to shifters, you name it. We will document this too and have three witnesses sign that they saw the test performed. We will need to start gathering the bodies for burning. She gives out assignments, no nonsense again as she commands the survivors. She then approaches you again. When the bodies are ready it might be nice if you could read the last rites to them, though I understand if you are tired. You don't look well. Perhaps you should head to the infirmary, it will be some time before we're ready for you. she sighs.

Simon nodded. "I will submit to the tests first. It is only fair that I set the example. Once done I will go and seek medical attention." He made a mental note, "I will indeed perform that ritual."

He stood and waited to be instructed on how to take the tests she mentioned.

Victoria happily allows you to take the tests first which comprise of holy water, being sliced lightly with a silver blade and other various exercises. When she is satisfied she signs you off to the infirmary thanking you again for all you've done. When you get there you find a nurse looking pale and shaken. She brightens at seeing you and quickly assesses your wounds. I heard what happened she stammers. I-I thought there would be more alive than there were. Only two survivors she starts to bandage you as she continues. Sorry, I'm not normally this rattled but when half of my friends die she shakes her head and wipes at her eyes. Haven't I seen you around with Lily as of late? Now there's an odd one for ya right? she tries to change the subject. Always did wonder about her. I don't suppose she ended up being a demon did she?
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:58, Thu 12 Mar 2015.

Simon took the tests and once done he returned Victoria's words with his own thank yous. He took his leave and went to the infirmary. The nurse was nice enough and he allowed her to look him over. "Their sacrifice will be rewarded, and we will not forget them." This was the most comforting thing he could think to say.

She went on about Lily. Everyone knew it seemed, even though their relationship was in its infancy. He nodded, "Perhaps it is not the typical relationship, but it is one we both embrace. No she is not a demon." He said this confidently even though she had not been tested to his knowledge.

With her free hand Kate pulled out her pistol and smiled "Lead the way, I'll cover you."

ooc: Kate, I moved you to the other thread now so post there when ready. I will be winding up things at some point with Simon as well and eventually you will be there too.

Simon: Relationship? she looks surprised. I'd heard a whisper or two but didn't think it could be really true. Well now there's a shame. Surely you could do better than some dirty Indian? she scoffs. Especially one as bad as her. She's all temper and feist and I don't mind telling you there's something off about her that I don't like. Too many odd things have happened. You would do well to get out while you can. I tell ya if I ever had suspected a demon in the place it would have been her. You sure she's not one now?

Simon had never felt as angry as he did when this woman said such horrible things about Lily. Had he not been a total pacifistic he would have slapped her right then and there. He growled at this stupid woman. "You should watch your tongue." He turned and faced the wall. "And be so kind as to find someone who is a Christian and not a bigot to treat my injuries. You madam will not touch me again."

She looks shocked at your reaction and then quickly stiffens in anger. Well! How's that for ya? I try to be a good soul and offer you a warning and you go off and do this! Well a demon she may not be but I wouldn't be surprised if she bewitched ya she scoffs. I suppose no one ever told you about her last partners in the field? Didn't meet with happy ends did they! Awful unexplained circumstances too. So if you want to defend the woman you should think hard about just what it is you're defending! She could be pulling the wool over your holy eyes. She's dangerous I tell ya, and you're a fool if you don't listen, father or not!

Simon boiled but did not allow himself to sink to physical violence. This woman was just a bigot, someone to be ignored. He did not look at her or speak to her again, he simply set his eye forward. When he thought he had heard the last of her breath he spoke very quietly, "Why are you still here? Go and find me someone who is not a bigot."

She grits her teeth and says, I hope you remember what I said when she turns on you out in the field! Fool! she storms off looking absolutely furious. Several minutes later a young doctor comes looking uncertain. Ah....I was told you needed some assistance It is clear he must have heard an earful from the woman before. If you're open to it I have quicker ways of healing you he pulls out a scroll and waits patiently. If you agree to it he will mutter an incantation and heal you on the spot. Otherwise he will utilize more traditional methods. Uh...for the record father, I am not a bigot and I am quite fond of Lily. Still, what my nurse told you about her field partners is true. There have been a few instances where they did not return in one piece and Lily cannot recall what happened to them. Lapses in memory apparently. I keep telling her to see a hypnotist... he shakes his head. At any rate I'm sure she'd never willingly hurt you. At least, I hope not, but it is worth remembering.

Simon allowed the man to heal him. He was intrigued by the scroll. "I've seen what Lily can do. I have no fear of her. The nurse should learn some manners. I do not appreciate bigotry under any circumstances. In any case I appreciate your aid. DO you need anything else from me?"

The doctor looks surprised at the offer but smiles politely. No, I think I'm alright for the time being. Just try to help anyone who is taking this too hard. I can heal bodies but comfort is something I can offer little of he sighs.

By the time you are finished and head out you are feeling remarkably well. Your wounds are healed completely and you are more energized then you've been in some time. As you walk through the halls you see the mass effort of gathering the bodies is underway. Eventually Victoria finds you, looking sober. Testing is almost finished. We discovered six shifters and three ghouls but everyone else seems to be human. This place is going to be running on a skeleton crew after this. Who knows if we still have traitors in our midst that are simply human. I don't know of a test for loyalty unfortunately. She sways tiredly and leans against a wall. I have a safehouse. Lily and Ian know about it. I will have you and the others stay there for your own safety from now on, though I will need some help here from time to time

Simon nodded to the doctor, "Any time. Comfort is in fact, my specialty." Leaving the Doctor he went into the complex. He found what he had expected, piled bodies redy for cremation. It was a sad duty, but one that they could not shirk. He preformed Last Rites on each one, individually, a very time consuming task.

Amid this task Victoria approached him. She explained the situation and indeed it looked grim. He smiled, though, "The saying goes its always darkest before the dawn. We must trust that this is all in His plan."

His thoughts shifted to Lily. "I saw something disturbing. Lily actually defeated the windigo without my aid. She seemed to be in some kind of trance. Do you have an explaination for this?"

She looks a bit startled by your words but gives a slow nod. She...neglected to tell me that. So...it's happening again she sighed. From time to time things occur with Lily. I don't know what happens, even she can't tell you. But whatever foe she's faced in times of the most desperation or need, has been utterly defeated. A time or two the lives of her companions have been claimed as well, though I don't know how. Lily was incredibly worried about this and if she was safe to be around others but I would not allow her to withdraw. she looks at you firmly then. You see, I sometimes have the ability to read people. Their pasts, their futures, and sometimes it is just a feeling, I can't explain it but so far it's never been wrong. When it comes to Lily I sense she is not a danger to those that serve a good cause. I don't know what this means, and I only hope I'm not somehow wrong but I would stake my life that I'm not. Unfortunately not everyone takes much comfort in the opinion of a black woman.

Simon was thoughtful at Victoria's statements. "I feel the same. I do not believe she would do me harm under any circumstances." He looked back at the bodies, "I have much work left to do before the cremation, if you need me I can be found here."

Much of your time is thereafter spent on body preparation. You note that James is one of them, the man you confronted at the church just a couple of days prior. Other familiar faces are amongst the dead, most of them surprising. Westbrook's box is given you to bless but Victoria requests he not be burned as she would like to bury him properly. She is exhausted and you wouldn't be surprised if she has a breakdown soon but she is fighting it stoically. You are pleased that Ian and Frederick are not amongst the traitors though where either is you do not know.

As you sit alone in the room for what feels like eternity you notice the air getting colder and the electric lights start to flicker. Never a good sign, in fact you are aware this often means there is some spiritual activity going on...

Simon took Victoria aside into Westbrook's Office, the door left slightly adjar indicating privacy was wanted but that he did not want to be uncouth. He did the Last Rites and an additional Blessing Upon the Departed with Victoria. When he was done he said, "Tell me everything. Nothing you say will go beyond us. Telling will make you feel much better. Unburden yourself, let me help you carry your cross."

Later when he is alone he sees and feels the signs of supernatural activity. He rises and investigates, hoping to find the shoe before it dropped.

Victoria starts to cry and allows herself a small moment of mourning until she wipes her eyes and sighs. He was like my father. Without him, I don't know what I am going to do. she admits.

Simon let her grieve. When she felt like talking he responded, "If you need a surrogate I would be happy to fill in, though I will never be able to take his place. He was a great man."

That is very kind of you but I'll be alright she smiles as she wipes her eyes. I worry though that this place will fall apart without him. I could take over but there are some who would see fault with my skin and gender. I will have to look into a replacement to helm these people. They clearly need a guide and someone they know well. Perhaps Frederick could be convinced she sighs. That is if I can even keep them from leaving.

Simon nodded, "You will need a confidant and an adviser. Please at least consider me. Ian is a good choice, confident and most if not all here trust him."

I will most definitely take your advice Father she smiles gratefully. There are so few that I actually trust and I know you have selfless motives. And yes, Ian is a wonderful choice. I doubt he'd let himself be tied to a desk though and I don't want to assign him leader just to have him get killed in action she sighs. I would do it myself but I don't know if everyone would accept me. It would make things simpler to be sure. John kept me appraised of so many things. I'm afraid to ask though, I'm sure there would be too many opposed to it.

Simon thought for a moment. "Would I be opposed? I do not want this, but if it keeps the Men of Letters and their good works alive...I would not actually be in charge you would. I would be like a figure head."

Well there's a thought she muses in surprise. And a very generous one at that! But I think you may be better suited in the field as well. I was thinking though...they trust you. Do you think you could perhaps feel out the situation? Find out if they are gravitating towards a replacement? Do it surreptitiously of course but if I know what they are looking for I could choose a better candidate?

Simon smiled, "Of course. I will do my best." He left and went among the the Men of Letters.

11:37, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 16 using 1d20+7. gather info.

As you interact with the members you find to your surprise that most of them are quite fond of Victoria, some even naturally assuming she will be the one taking over and most of them feel sorry for her situation. There are a few bigots however, who are both sexist and racist but surprisingly they are in the minority. Still, you are wary of how they would react to her as a leader.

Simon was extremely happy with what had occurred and went to Victoria with the information. "Victoria, I am pleased to report that the vast majority of the group not only expects you to take over, but are eager for it. You have a problem with a few of your members," he listed them off, though he assumed she knew which before he began, "Still you could find places for them among other cells if nothing else. I believe you will find that on the whole this place will run smoothly under your leadership."

Victoria looks shocked at the news though incredibly pleased. Truly they are so supportive? she looks touched. I never dreamed...thank you Father! I will call a meeting tonight and see if they want to make it official. Anyone who disagrees can go to another chapter perhaps, though a cell may be necessary for some she sighs. She takes your hand and gives it a thankful squeeze. I owe you so much, if there is ever a way to repay you she smiles.

ooc: Go ahead and finish up here and then it's back to the bodies and ghosts! ;P

He smiled, "I think if you have advice on courting Lily that will be sufficient. I need to get back to blessing the bodies." He went back to his work...

Victoria laughs at your request. Just practice your dodging. I'm sure you'll need it at some point she grins.

When you return to blessing the bodies you find that as you are alone in the room the electric lights start to flicker and the air grows cold. Suddenly a pale figure appears in the center of the room looking flustered. Seeing you he grows hopeful though he's having a difficult time maintaining his presence. Knowing about ghosts as you do you realize this is quite impressive for generally ghosts take a while before they have the strength to manifest themselves. For being dead so recently this is a powerful soul indeed. Don't burn my body yet! he manages to gasp before disappearing again. You realize he must be amongst the lot you've been blessing. Should you look long enough you'll find him, still warm. You could burn his bones and get rid of his ghost but you can't help but wonder why he's appearing to you the way he is.

In reply to Artemis (msg # 190):

Simon put the bones aside and burned the rest. Then he went to Victoria and told her what happened with the ghost.

Victoria is shocked at this news and she follows you after stopping by her room to obtain a leather case. She then opens the contents and starts to display items of hoodoo which surprises you a bit, especially when she takes out a cross too. Hoodoo has been in my family for generationsshe explains. Contrary to what some think it works quite well with Christianity and is only made more powerful by using holy items. I assure you I am not some witch doctor or savage. It is a very respectable practice. Now, could you bring the body over here please? she indicates the circle she has drawn in black powder. He may be confused at first, I need you to help him focus. Ask him questions, remind him what happened. His name was Roger, be sure to remind him of that.

Should you do so she will start chanting in a low voice until the man's spirit once again starts to flicker into view. Victoria? he looks surprised and startled. She keeps chanting and motions for you to go ahead.

Simon smirked at Victoria, and put his hand over his heart in a Shakespearean mock "you wound me." He spoke, "Voodoo grew out of a combination of Native African Religion and Catholic beliefs. How dare I mock what God has sanctified."

Simon nodded at her instructions. He watched with interest as she drew a circle and commanded the ghost to appear. She motioned for him to begin, "Rodger. Remember who you were Rodger. Remember who I am, Father Cole. Do you remember me?"

He let the ghost answer before continuing. "Rodger your soul is strong and you asked me not to burn your body. I need to know why Rodger. I need you to tell me what kept you here. What is so important? Tell me so that God might give you peace."

Victoria looks relieved at your acceptance. Thank you father, I may have been to hasty to judge she smiles.

At your questioning of Rodger you find he is responsive, more so as Victoria continues her chanting. Her words become a buzz in the background as she repeats the same strange chants over and over until they are almost hypnotic. Y-Yes. You are the priest they brought in he nods at last. Then he sees his body and shudders. Oh that's right. I'm dead. He looks sad and about to lose it but he closes his eyes and focuses, remembering. I came to warn you. I've had a demon inside me for seven months. I don't remember everything but I recall snippets here and there. I remember a meeting place, down by the river. A drop point with instructions. It's important he struggles to remember. A boat house. A loose panel...They were planning something big, I don't know what. Coordinating something... He frowns in frustration.

Simon tried to coax the ghost. "Try Rodger. Think, it is very important."

He starts to flicker a bit and Victoria doubles her efforts of chanting. I-I think it had something to do with the ring of Solomon...they are trying to track it. If they get it we're as good as done. I don't think they know where it is yet but you need to hurry and find out where it is before they do. Also, tell the time traveler and the British woman to be wary of Belial. He has more of a hold on them than they realize. with that he disappears again, leaving Victoria looking thoughtful. This is bad. If Belial knows about the ring already we are in a race we may not be able to win. We need to find Emma's body. How much do you already know about this? Has anyone filled you in?

Simon shook his head, "I am sorry I know nothing."

Alright, brace yourself then. It looks like Emma Bently is actually working against Belial. She is aware of his schemes to use Baal's followers for his own gain and he pretends to want to bring about Baal's resurrection when really he is hoping to gain power for himself. Emma knew about this and had a plan to stop him, the ring of Solomon. Belial killed her, however, for disobeying orders and now we must resurrect her in order to find out where the ring is. It is the only thing that can stop Belial. The fact that Roger has said Belial knows of the ring and is looking for it too means we have even less time to find it than we thought. It is all very twisted, let me know if you need clarification she apologizes.

Simon shook his head, "No I think I've got it. What do you need from me?"

Honestly, I will need help finding her body. There is a method I have at my disposal but it will require a few ingredients. Unpleasant ones...how do you feel about grave desecration? I'm sure you've done it enough by now you've got it down to a fine art?Tonight I will need you to go to the graveyard and get me the bones of someone who has died no more than a year ago. It could be messier than usual I'm afraid. I would use one of ours, she gestures at Roger's body, but it must have been interred in holy ground. Besides, I...don't think I could bring myself to... she shudders.

Simon nodded, "I understand. I will take care of it."

He will go to the local cemetery and look for a fresh grave he can...exhume.

You find there are far too many fresh graves to choose from, mostly pauper's graves from the looks of it. It is still afternoon at this point so you will have to take care if you do it now, not to be seen. At the very least you can pinpoint the easiest target if you wish to return that night. It occurs to you that you could just take a hand or something with you, as Victoria did not say she needed an entire body and it would certainly make transport easier. The graveyard is full of activity at the moment, mostly workers who give you polite nods and ignore you though there are isolated areas you could avoid them if you wish. During all this you see a wagon several yards off. It is covered by a tarp and if your eyes do not deceive you there are numerous legs and feet sticking out. Apparently a fresh batch of unknown paupers ripe for the plucking, morbid as that may be.

ooc: You have several options so if you want to try the wagon or exhume a grave please roll a hide and move silently

Simon, having cased the area, will return after sundown with a lantern, shovel, and perhaps a bit of help.

As you start to go you see movement out of the corner of your eye. The wagon of bodies waits to be unloaded but you see a woman in ragged clothes sneaking up to it. Then to your horror she grabs a leg, rips it off with inhuman strength, and goes running away!

Simon will attempt to follow the woman. He will let her get a lead and follow using his knowledge of tracking. This will mean he will not have to be sneaky, something he is terrible at, but instead let him follow from a great enough distance so as not to be noticed.

FrA - Declare woman for Target bonus.
11:31, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 31 using 1d20+12. Survival - Track.

You  manage to keep a good distance, enough that she doesn't seem to notice you follow her though she's moving fast. The graveyard is large and sprawling with acres of graves and beautiful scenery. She at last stops running by a small arched bridge, placed there more for decoration than actual necessity. She squats half underneath it and begins to gnaw at the limb like an animal, even at the distance you are at you can tell exactly what she is doing...

ooc: If you decide to come closer roll a hide/move silently

Simon grimaced, for more than one reason. He had hoped to be lead somewhere by this poor creature, instead she just wanted to be car from others. Her cannibalism was terrible but it brought to mind the wendigo he and Lily had fought before. He knew just killing her was not going to solve the long term problem of where her kind was coming from.

He decided then to try and capture it. He cast Crown of Glory, hoping it would affect this creature better than the last he had tried it on.

Cast Crown of Glory

He would know immediately if she was affected because she would stop what she was doing. HE would sprint to make sure she was in the area of effect.

Full Round Double Move

Once he knew whether she was affected he would know whether the rest of his plan could be carried out.

The woman tears at the flesh messily, almost as though she is starving and you note she is a ragged mess. Whatever she is, she's not fed enough by the looks of it. As you cast your spell she suddenly stiffens and drops the limb, holding perfectly still...It seems to have worked.

Simon picked up the limb and looked at the woman, "I suggest you follow me and stay within the influence of the spell." He makes his way back to the Men of Letters hideout.

The woman obeys, following you listlessly. She is ragged, unwashed and covered in welts and cuts. If you had to guess what kind of creature she is you would say Ghoul though of course you like to be sure before getting too comfortable with a theory.

It almost looks as though she's been beaten and the way she was so careless about the bodies she could have also been starved. What would do this to a ghoul, if that is indeed what she is? By the time you return to the men of letters the place has been surprisingly cleaned from the carnage of the day. But then no one was better with dead bodies than hunters.

Simon looks for Victoria. While doing so, if he finds a suitable place he will lead her to it. Preferably a devil's trap if they work on her kind so as not to have to use the second suggestion. If not then he will find a seat for her and suggest she sit in it until he returns. He needed Victoria's help, both with the arm and the ghoul.

The trap unfortunately doesn't seem to work but she listens to your suggestion easily. Victoria is fortunately easy to find though she looks tired and worn. Seeing the arm she arches an eyebrow. Well that was fast she remarks.

ooc: Sorry, you are just a smidge ahead of the other thread's timeline so I'm trying to level things out.

Simons stated "It was not actually buried, so you may not be able to use it. There was...I believe she is a ghoul...trying to feed on it. I have her under suggestion waiting on you and I to question. She seemed pitiable, malnourished and frightened."

Victoria listens with surprise. What?! Take me to her! She follows you to the ghoul and begins to question her. The creature answers easily and you discover she has escaped from a warehouse near the docks where she was being held captive by demons. When Victoria questions why this would be she shakes her head. Experiments. I don't know why. In spite of the evilness of the creature you almost feel sorry for her. Almost.

Simon asked if she could lead him back or draw him a map to this warehouse. Indeed he does feel pity for the poor soul.

She gives you instructions but Victoria insists that you not go by yourself. It is too dangerous. We will need to assemble a team, as much of one as we can scrape together she adds sadly. Suddenly she looks up sharply. What was that? she exclaims. You hear it too then. A distant thumping coming from down the hallway...

ooc: Roll search please

As you follow the sounds you track them to a closet down the hallway. As you open it you are shocked to see Ian! He's bound and gagged and there is a wicked looking gash on his forehead where he has been struck. He looks relieved to see you though he thrashes urgently as though he is in a hurry. Victoria quickly un gags him and he tries to stand shakily, still out of it. Where is he!? he gasps. Bloody shifter took my form, at least an hour ago maybe more. I was just fixing all the devil's traps with Kate, we split up and the blighter caught me by surprise.

Simon's eyes went large. He looked at Victoria, "He was with Lily..." He did not wait, he ran as fast as he could to the tunnel. He did not care if they did not want him with them, they had to know that Ian would kill them. They were not expecting an attack at their back. While he ran he prayed, "OH God, I throw myself at your feet. Please do not take her from me, I beg you. I cannot loose Lily not now that I have found her."

You run for the tunnel but by now a couple of hours have passed since they went to investigate Westbrook. You fear that whatever attack was to happen has already taken place. Ian races after you in spite of his wound, his face grim. You rush into Westbrook's room, scramble down the ladder and race through the tunnel as best you can. On the other side is a ladder going up through a trap door. The door leads into the basement of a house and from the looks of it there are two dead men on the floor, bullet holes in the walls and blood everywhere.

Simon barely acknowledged Ian was there as he made his way down the tunnel and into the house(?) and he then tied to picture in his mind where he was. He knew the direction he had gone in, so he should be able to tell which house he was in.

There had been a gun battle. He had to focus. He choose a short prayer and God brought Sherlock Holmes to his mind. Sherlock could tack a man across London like a falcon tracking some vermin on a clear day. Simon had learned a lot from Holmes. He opened his eyes and looked around the carnage. He looked for the shoe print, the dirt smudge, the things that would point him in the right direction...

09:39, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 30 using 1d20+12. Survival - Tracking.

Judging by your position you must be about a block down the road from the warehouse. There were a few old run down houses and your guess is this is one of them. Westbrook must have had it as an escape route of some sort though looking around you the house seems to have been inhabited, perhaps by the henchmen of the false Westbrook. Ian sees the scene and swears, drawing his gun. This happened a while ago, do you think we're too late? I don't see them at least, that's got to count for something right? he sounds worried and guilty, no doubt he feels somewhat responsible considering the shifter took his appearance.

As you look for tracks you are able to find signs that someone went out the front door, it is still flung open. As you start to head outside though you hear voices. On the front porch are several police officers and on the street is a wagon with a tarp. They must have been drawn by the sounds of gunshots and are investigating the scene themselves. Ian swears again and pulls you back. I might have known they would find their way here. he sighs. Well, looks like it's Jones and Bronson, good fellows. I worked with them a couple of years back. I'll handle the talking, you see what else you can find. You recall then that Ian used to be an officer himself. He steps out onto the porch confidently and greets the cops who jump in surprise. Out of the corner of your eye you see what appears to be footprints down the road and a trail of blood running parallel to them.

Simon does not exactly ignore Ian, but he does keep his own counsel. He lets Ian handle the cops while Simon follows what appears to be a trail of blood.

As you start out of the house the police are startled and raise their guns towards you but Ian quickly intervenes. Fortunately they recognize him instantly and you vaguely hear him tell the pair that you are investigating some suspicious disappearances that might be connected. The man has a smooth tongue it seems. Now that it is safe you are free to follow the trail. It is difficult to follow at times but here and there is a drop or two to put you on the right track. Eventually you end up a few blocks away against the side of a dilapidated house. There is blood all over one of the walls as though someone were leaning up against it and they were badly wounded. To your horror you glance down and see what appears to be a human liver lying on the ground. It is somewhat crushed as though someone squeezed it in their hand, perhaps after cutting or ripping it out of the person. There is no body though and you also note that the blood is greatest here, indicating this was the start of the violence. The trail ends at this point and you surmise it means they must have started here and headed back to the house after.

Simon drew his pistol and knocked on the door, "Lily are you in there?"

The door is unlocked and there is no answer. A quick look around reveals the house is abandoned it would seem and judging by the thick dust on the floor no one has been in here in some time. This is a relief as there are no indications of a body being dumped and if there is no body here then perhaps she is yet alive, though whoever is missing their kidney can't be doing well. By now Ian has caught up with you and he pokes his head in the house nervously. Father? he calls. Seeing you he relaxes. I searched the house a bit more with the other coppers, luckily I kept them from finding the trap door. We don't need them finding their way to headquarters. There was a lot of blood there and the trail looks like it could have led back to the trap door, though I can't be sure. They may have returned to headquarters at some point and we missed them; it is a big place. By the way, I don't suppose you have any idea of whose liver that is? he looks worried.

Simon shook his head. "None, and the trail ends here." He looked at the former cop, "So you think we should just return empty handed?"

I don't see much choice he shakes his head in frustration. We should search the headquarters, make sure we haven't missed their return. They are a bright bunch they may have survived whatever my doppelganger was up to. If they did they may have come back and we're fretting over nothing he sounds hopeful though his face is still worried. We should split up and meet at the library when we're done sweeping. If we still haven't found them we'll start a search party. Some of the folks here have more advanced ways of finding people, we'll bend their ear, see what we can find. I would start with the infirmary if I were you, unless...you would rather I did. he looks anguished.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:03, Thu 14 May 2015.

ooc: Go ahead and let me know where you look/roll a search and gather info please.

Simon nodded and followed Ian back to their Headquarters. He started in the infirmary as Ian suggested.

08:21, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 20 using 1d20+7. Gather Info.
08:21, Today: Father Simon Cole rolled 6 using 1d20+5. Search.

You head to the infirmary without luck. The place is mostly empty save for a nurse (fortunately a more pleasant one than the last woman you ran into) and she asks if she can help you. Should you request information on Lily and the others she will look surprised. I saw her in the hall not two minutes ago. She was covered in blood but she said she was fine she shakes her head, bewildered. I think she was headed to her room to wash up.

Simon nodded and took off like a shot. If Lily was covered in blood there must be a reason. If it were hers he needed to heal her. If others...well he could help her deal with that as well...

You arrive at Lily's room in little time at all. It's hard to believe the morning started off so innocently, leaving flowers at her door. Should you knock it takes a moment for her to answer and when she does she is in a robe. You see past her a small wooden circular tub and a pitcher of water and towel. Her chest and hands are covered in dried blood that she was likely about to wash off. She looks surprised to see you but pleased. There you are! she looks relieved, gesturing for you to come in. I was about to wash but I'll wait though let me at least get my hands. She leans over the pitcher and starts to do her best at getting rid of the blood. The woman is apparently unharmed but she looks exhausted, worried and saddened. Are you alright? she demands, seeing the look on your face suddenly.

Simon hugged Lily tightly. "We found out your Ian was a shape shifter. I feared the worst had happened."

So that's what happened she murmurs as she hugs you back. She stays there a moment and sighs tiredly, feeling almost limp against you. At last she pulls back and starts washing her bloody hands. I'm sorry to have worried you Simon. Though I am sorrier to tell you that Kate appears to have been kidnapped. We tracked the fake Westbrook and discovered he was an alpha shifter, the first shifter and much more powerful. We managed to capture him and imprison him. We left him with Kate and Ian while Penny and I discussed something... she looks suddenly uncomfortable and presses on, not wanting to dwell on whatever they discussed. The angel Castiel appeared, you remember he spoke to us through Victoria? He came to try to help but he was too late. We rushed into the room and Kate was gone. I was to get this blood off and regroup with them. You should join me.

Simon nodded, "I will join you. I am glad you are ok and safe, though I am worried for Kate. She is a good person and doesn't deserve to hurt. Should I leave while you freshen up?"

She gives a wicked laugh at the question. I should say no just to see your face she grins. But yes, I need to get dressed and wash the rest of the blood off. Won't take three minutes, I promise. Indeed as you wait outside for her she is ready within minutes, dressed in a simple skirt and blouse, weapons on her belt and ready to go. They are probably still in the holding cells. Let's go.

ooc: I'm going to move you to the other thread now so you can respond here too if you like or just go over there.