(So I plan for this to run in an everyone posts then I update format. The limit for posting until the next action will be 12 hours to prevent stress but to also keep things moving at a decent pace. Once 12 hours is reached and not all the posts have been received I will go forward and update. Anyone who is skipped is still allowed to participate, but they will have to make up their own action after update.) (As for number of people ... well i'm fine with any number joining as long as things remain respectful. The more the merrier I say :) ) (Depending on how this goes I do have a story in mind, but i'm really playing it by ear till I have a better sense of how things work on this site.)

(Ah forgot to mention OWO. If everyone posts before the 12 hour limit I will update as soon as I possibly can. Final thingy I should mention er to me this is just part one and the story I plan will be a multi-part rather than one and done. I have never really been a fan of managing huge sections of writing so once this part feels complete I will likely create another thread if people are still interested.)

OOC: I'm fairly sure I can manage that post rate then, so I'll hop in. A woman with red hair wanders into the area, from atop a building's roof looking down at the crime. A bored look on her face even as she gazes upon the gruesome sight before her. As if such a thing is at worst another day on the job. "Hmm, weird... It's work? Can never tell with that thing, but I don't sense..." She mutters under her breath, for now easily evading sight via the simple fact people don't generally look up. "Haven't seen anything to point towards it though, so probably not. The real question is, what kinda monster can and would freeze someone like that...?"

(Sorry I should have worded things better O///0. I have been on this site before, but it has been so long since I was last on that now things feel pretty new to me here. New people are around and new rp styles seem to have come up so I once again need to get used to things. Thanks for the welcome :) though.)

A man in pale white skin walked into the crowd of spectators, half trying to take a walk and the other half to satisfy his own curiosity. Strange.... was the winter too much for her? Nicole thought to himself as he looked over the shoulders of the growing crowd. Nicole looked about the area he was in and spotted an officer in blue. He walked over to him, knowing that there is a very small chance that he would actually talk to him about the murder. Though, it couldn't hurt Hello...Officer? Can i ask what happened to the women? Girls looking like that usually have worse things done to them.

*Off in the crowd, trying to get a better look at the body, was Dahlia. Next to her, cane in hand, was her partner, Isaac, the blind teenager trying his best to keep his friend out of trouble.* Nyeh. Come on... I just... wanna... see it... up...close. Isaac: I don't think the police would like that. Leave them to their jobs, Dahlia. But that's boring. Isaac: But that's the law. *Dahlia sighed. She then looked around the park.* Yeah. I guess you're right. Still, all these people standing around. It's almost as if they've never seen a dead body before. Everyone's on edge. Makes you wonder if something bad is gonna happen, eh? Isaac: Forget it. How long are we going to stay here? I promised Maria I'd pick her up something to eat on the way home. Patience. Just a little longer. I just wanna try seeing if I can spot anything more major. Tee hee hee.

Ah, ok then. I've actually just moved my RP off the site since RP's kinda seemed to be dying here Welcome back I suppose. Sure I'll join in for now. A white haired girl wearing a large tan jacket that covered her all the way to her knees was walking by. Her long red scarfed flowing behind her as she walked through the cold winds that blew across the snow covered town. Her ruby red eyes flickered towards the large crowd as she could feel that something had come to an end there. A life had expired. She didn't need to see the scene herself to know this. "Twould seem another life hath ended." she would mutter to herself before looking around at all the people crowding around. She still couldn't understand peoples fascination with these kinds of things. Did they derive some type of joy from taking pictures of a corpse? It was none of her business in the end but the method in which this body perished was of some interest. At the very least, it wouldn't hurt to stick around for a while and hopefully find some form of entertainment in all of this. Who knows. Maybe this was the cause of yet another creature of the abyss or a all too bored god.

what? An investigation-focused thread? I've been waiting for this!!! As the pair searched the city on their own accord, A tall, white-haired man wearing a red coat accompanied by an extremely young girl, one who could almost be described as a toddler, wearing a frilly white dress, with a pair of earmuffs for her head topped with a large, blue bow, the girl clings to the man's side as they confidentally approach the officers, sharing a few words before they get to work Man: Alright runt, just try to keep quiet for now, and let me do the talking. It looks like we have some business Girl: That lady's dead isn't she? Wonder what happened Man: I'll explain it as best I can once we have all the information, alright? without giving the girl a chance to reply, the man walks up to one of the nearest officers, preferably one with a clipboard or anything else to suggest they're taking notes Leo: Detective Leo here, called in to assist in the investigation, just get me up to speed and I'll get to work.

A boy with a very odd outfit almost akin to that of a performer's would be bent over away from the crowd near an especially thick part of the ice. He had a sharp metal tool in his hand which seemed to serve the purpose of excavating the deepest parts of the ice. Next to him was also a cooler that seemed to be for storage of whatever it was he was gathering. He almost seemed unaware of the commotion surrounding him, as if too focused on his work to notice. With a sigh and a shiver, he would finally look up for a moment. I've always hated the cold. Why does the weather have to be like this still? I just need to finish this and then I can go back. It would be at that moment that the odd boy would finally notice the gathering of people nearby. What's going on? A performance? No... Those are...police officers? There the guards around here so... Well, this looks interesting at least. Maybe I'll observe for a while.

Scene One (Actor - Shino): Elevated Viewing A veteran to some grisly sites and a purveyor of odd work, Shino is in her element as she studies the dead woman from above. With her sound thinking she effectively managed to avoid the bothersome crowd allowing herself some time to ponder on the nature of the woman’s death. While no obvious answer is readily dropped to her awaiting hands there is something unusual to be seen from her position. With her current birds-eye-view Shino can see the odd spread of ice around the dead woman. Unlike, the rest of the spectators who see the ice as a random layer along the dirt. She immediately notices that the ice takes on a perfect circular shape toward the center. The occasional scratch mark almost hints at another shape within a circle. A Star? Or maybe a diamond? Could even be a triangle? At the center of it all is the dead woman’s body. If Shino waits around some more she could discover something else, but it comes with a risk as the clear ring of footsteps can be heard from the emergency stairs at the side of the building. The footsteps themselves seem rushed and there is no telling if Shino could make it to the roof top exit door before she is spotted.

Scene Two (Actors - Nicole and Leo): Blue Lips Conceal Tips The officer that Nicole approaches simply lets out a long, suffering sigh and anxiously rings his hands together. Arching an eye to the unusually pale man he says, “Yeah well girls looking like that need to be more careful in the big city.” Another officer approaches and adds on, “Tourists these days really think they are near invulnerable huh.” Both officers having shared their woes in a rare moment of peace soon turn to Nicole with a glare indicating the clear intention of sending him back to the masses. That is until another odd-looking citizen equipped with a red coat approaches them. Once Leo introduces himself the officers are quick to catch him up to speed after having waited for an investigator for hours. They are so prompt to their jobs that they momentarily ignore the presence of Nicole. The quick run-down they give is as follows: - The lady’s body was discovered in the early hours of the morning by a professional street artist - She appears to be within her 20s - Dark Haired, brown eyed, with no clear ethnic descent - Her bag is of a high quality (a clear Versace piece) and emptied of all contents - All her jewelry and items of high value are still on her person with the exception of a cell phone - A tiny strip of paper with a phone number found on her person - Her body is in the same condition it was found in - Appears to have died from internal organ damage instead of an external wound - A tiny strip of paper with an address was found in her coat pocket Sadly the police are unable to give out more information as the investigation is still ongoing and thus the fair lady remains a peculiar Jane Doe. The police then attempt to escort Nicole out of the investigation area, but fail to cuff him allowing for an opportunity of escape should he consider it. While Leo is left to his own devices after being brought up to speed. The police could be currently holding extra info to themselves that they failed to mention and Leo has been denied possession of any clear piece of evidence without the proper documentation. Is this the end of Leo’s inquiries or will he consider something more unpredictable in this situation? The corpse of the mysterious Jane Doe is only a few spaces away from Nicole and Leo.

Scene Three (Actors – Dahlia and Alice): Hidden in the Crowds A wise man once said that humanity was it’s own personal form of torture and this crowd certainly proved his point. Bumping into each other to sneak free peaks at the latest enigma while simultaneously blinding each other with the brilliant white flashes of cameras. The growing crowd in the park were certainly not going to quiet down and let the professionals conduct their work anytime soon. Which is where Dahlia and Alice found themselves having decided to situate themselves among the common folk of the city. From the position they have chosen they have had sudden glimpses of the body, but never any long standing views. At some point the crowd does thin out teasing Dhalia with the view of something shiny lost beneath dozens of feet. While Alice is able to see a boy with an odd outfit chipping away at the ice near the body. Though the most conspicuous thing is a man wearing light, warm weather clothing and approaching a pitch black vehicle. Quite unusual that no one else seems to pick him out. With a shiny object, a boy, and a man immune to the cold the two who stayed behind have their interest cut out for them. Remember not all options last forever.

Scene Four (Actor – Atelier): A Closer Study Successfully gathering a few chunks of ice the oddly dressed boy known as Atelier is seriously pushing his luck with local law enforcement. They may have not noticed him yet due to their investment in the crime scene, but soon he may run out of luck. Given his proximity to the body he is able to pick out additional flecks of blood along the pristine ice. The markings are so tiny that the police have not yet noticed them, but with his continual ice picking Atelier has been close enough to spot said flecks. Atelier is also able to see a shiny object being tossed beneath the clamoring feet of the crowd. If he chases after the object he will likely lose his ice picking spot, but if he remains near the scene people may notice with time. There is also the police presence to consider and the fact that he is technically tampering with evidence through his current activity.

Hmm? *As the crowd thins out, Dahlia noticed the shiny thing.* Psst. Hey. Hey Isaac. Isaac: What? There's a shiny thing over there like four to six dudes across from us. *Isaac closes his eyes for a second before looking back at Dahlia.* Isaac: You want me to... Please? *Isaac sighs. Slowly, he pulls a small paint brush from his pocket. He runs it across his jacket before flicking it towards the object. Ink would pool beneath it, causing the shiny object to sink. Opening the palm of his gloved hand, the object would slowly rise up in the palm of his hand. Shaking some ink from it, he would hand the shiny object to Dahlia, who would inspect it.*

She sighs at the sound of footsteps, this bit of info was good to have gathered if only for how curious it is. But she can't really afford to hang around like this... "Hrmm, maybe I should look into a cat or something later. Nothing for it now though, unless I want to cause a scene." She'd begin looking around the roof, searching for any hiding spots even it means jumping down and hanging from a window or the like. If nothing came to mind, she'd simply sigh and leap straight down.

Leo wastes no time dealing with the information, he takes the hand of the kid next to him and whispers Leo: Alright, now’s about when you should be on the lookout Efi Efi: Lookout for what? I thought.. Leo: something to eat of course, not another word. Leo clears his throat and continues addressing the officer Leo: Alright, What we’ve got here is a serial killer, or an aspiring one at least, body’s obviously set up and he didn’t want to rob our Jane Doe while he’s at it. The number he left is probably for the woman’s phone so we have one chance to talk to him before he vanishes again. I’ll be needing that number and your phone to see if I can get anything from it. Lastly, have you already dispatched a group to the address in question? If not I’ll head there myself. Unless there’s something else you forgot to mention. As for Efina, she would let Leo talk as she keeps watching the area around the officer, were someone to lie, for whatever reason, their lie would take the form of a small, muddy-looking creature. Not very threatening, and very useful for anything resembling an interrogation

OOC: Sorry for the confusion, but the character's name is just Alt. Alt would begin packing up his bag before lifting it up. He was curious about the commotion ut also realized that he might end up unwillingly involved if he remained where he was. He'd notice the shiny object and decide to move away from his spot in order to get a better look at it without actually picking it up. Instead, he'd be more focused on whoever else might've attempted to pick it up if anyone.

Nicole face flashed a small grin ad he took careful time to note all the information about the women. Seeing how he was going to be arrested Nicole turned to the man next to him, Leo, and walks next to him. He knew this probably won't go in his favor but was worth the chance. He listened to his deduction. And whisper towards him If it's anything I've dealed with it wasn't a normal person. Or maybe saying person is too generous. Nicole would also ask him permission to investigate with him, seeing how he had some authority. good luck with this

Scene One (Actors – Dahlia and Alt): Rare Finds Dahlia’s hand now holds a spherical, light blue gem containing smoky mists at its edges. Upon further inspection she notices a word engraved on the lower edge of said stone. “Missy Lead”. It appears to be etched in and just running a finger across the name triggers a slow vibration across the rest of the gem. The vibration from initial contact being potent enough to shake her very person without any clear damage. Meanwhile, Alt notices the staged pick up conducted by Dahlia and should he pay extra close attention he will notice the slight tremor that shakes her once the gem lands in her hands. Though a third person equipped in clear warm weather clothing notices as well before entering his black vehicle. He halts his progress gently pushing the car door shut and merges with the crowd seen only to those who care enough to watch.

Scene Two (Actor – Shino): Precarious Heights After much searching Shino finds a window ledge on the other side of the roof that appears to have enough purchase to hold her for a while. Jumping down and hanging from the ledge she can instantly notice another ledge right beneath her. It’s one of a series of ledges all leading down to street level. Meanwhile, the clear ring of footsteps fades and a small huff can be heard from the above roof area. From her current position, Shino can only really catch snippets of the dialogue occurring above. It appears the new stranger is making a phone call of sorts. “Okay so I did the job are ya happy now jerk!” A deep breath can be heard. “No I didn’t find anything special on that body of yours. Just a lotta stupid stuff like makeup, money, hey whats this …. Ack!” Hissing ensues and a thud is heard from the roof.

Scene Three (Actors – Leo and Nicole): Bureaucratic Silence The officers soften their gaze on Nicole as they witness him moving in step with the investigator they are currently dealing with. Probably assuming that the man is with Leo for now. Yet their guard isn’t lowered as they uneasily look to each other for a sign. This is a huge case and they don’t quite know if it’s safe for them to give anything else. Thus, after a momentary stand off the officer with more obvious seniority takes the lead and blatantly refuses Leo’s request. “Sorry investigator we are unable to hand over the phone number without the proper retrieval method.”, the senior officer then adds after some thinking, “ Besides we don’t have anything of note. Give us a day or two to find you something more worthwhile.” A small muddy looking creature appears beside the legs of the senior officer as his subordinate runs off to whisper something to an officer closer to the body. The newest officer being whispered to sneaks a few almost unnoticeable glances in the direction of Leo, Nicole, and Efina.

Efi's eyes are drawn immediately to the little lie, with her caretaker Leo flashing a small grin too, so the officers were lying about not having more information, likely about being unable to share it too. Efi runs after the muddy-looking creature to tackle it as Leo casually walks behind her, looking back at the officers Leo: You do realize there's a murderer on the loose right? Catching them should be much more important than saving a little face. of course, since Nicole is there as well, and likely witnessed that little commotion, Leo would nod to him to affirm a temporary truce, before going on to explain as Efina happily begins to eat the lie Leo: As shouldn't surprise you by now, I'm a step above your standard PI, my daughter Efina here has a very special diet of lies. That is to say, there's nothing you can hide from us. Or do we need to notify the whole public of this little affair? Leo notes, tilting his head to one of the nearer groups of reporters, as though reminding the officers that they are in fact still there

She'd lean back against the window, reaching into her pockets for a moment before pulling out a thing which wasn't there mere moments ago. A grin spreads across her face as she puts on the black mask, easily concealing her face before the Demon leaps up with a bit more ease than she should have. "Hmm, seems like something stranger than I thought is going down... Maybe that so-called God really is involved?" She'd walk forward a bit, eyes darting around the rooftop as she attempts to examine the presumably fallen person. Of course, if he weren't then she's happy to take action if it were needed. "I wonder though, are you dead or simply knocked out? Not there's a huge difference in many cases. But if he's still alive... I might be able to get something useful, or just dig through his phone of course."

Scene One (Actor – Leo): Special Negotiation Half of what Leo tells the superior officer is utter nonsense to any sensible human being, but there is one thing that he easily picks up. Whole public. As in reporters. His eyes immediately dart to the hungry camera equipped vultures waiting behind the yellow face and his face instantly blanches. While his fear of reprimand may be strong it never could outweigh his fear of being harassed by the free press. With a placating hand gesture the superior officer nervously says, “You can calm down there. We are just having a friendly chat no need to bring others into this.” The superior officer scans his surroundings one last time before pulling out a yellow post it note. Then with a nice fountain pen he hurriedly scrawls a word and a number. Once finished he leans in and drops it on Leo’s hand. Should Leo open the note he will find “Adams and 36 W” scribbled on its interior. scribbled on its interior. The superior officer brings his cap down low and quietly states, “this is an address that only I picked up off a card in the Jane Doe’s possession. Tell no one and you should be the first there.” Clearly shaken after this ordeal the superior officer pats Leo’s shoulder and works his way back to his fellows in blue.

Scene Two (Actor - Shino): Kiddos are so Strange Leaping up to the roof with her face concealed in a black mask, Shino fails to make an impression on a young man currently crouched down and rubbing his eyes with an intensity. Alongside him there is a shattered glass perfume bottle and the clear scent of lavender wafting in the air. Scattered around the roof are other haphazard cosmetic items such as a tube of lipstick and a slightly used mascara brush. After a beat of silence, the young man suddenly jumps up and lazily stretches his arms as if he never were in an embarrassing position to begin with. Lazily yawning he then dips a silver phone into his sweater pocket and languidly turns to Shino’s direction. Offering Shino a free view of his pale, freckle lined skin and sharp blue eyes. The high altitude winds blow strands of his platinum blonde hair forward as a mischievous curved smile forms on his face. The young man doesn’t look like much with his cheap looking sweater and beaten jeans, but his relaxed attitude upon seeing Shino could be construed as odd. What he says next is even odder. “Gee lady you see someone in clear trouble and just watch. What is this some kinda show to you or is it more like one of those stupid comedies without the canned laughter.” Throwing his arms to the side in an open expression the young boy innocently laughs at his own words. He then takes a small step forward and continues, “Also didn’t anyone ever tell you that a roof is meant for self-drama. Being up here alone with the blowing wind was meant to be my sad moment where I realize that I wasted my life, pushed away my friends, don’t like doing the dirty work ….” The young man rambles on and a flash of something long, silvery, with a hint of red begins to poke out of his stylistically torn jeans pocket.

(No need to apologize Alice it's fine :). I'm just glad that you were interested enough to try this out and I hope dropping helps you focus on the other rps you are currently in)

Leo nods to the other officer, accepting the note and taking Efi by the hand, it didn’t seem likely he’d be able to ge more here, no need to push their luck when dealing with the police at least Leo: pleasure doing business with you, I’ll be sure to report my findings. Come on runt. with that, Leo and Efina would head off, checking back to see if Nicole intended to follow them, if not I guess they left. Either way Leo would push back through the reporters, muttering simply “classified” or “no comment” were any of them to ask questions. Once they’re a safe distance away Efi would speak up Efi: What was that all about? Leo: beaurocrats worries about their reputation. Even if it ends up hurting the people they’re supposed to protect Efi: Are they all like that? Leo: some are respectable, like Captain Neil, but it’s not uncommon. Efi: where’re we going now Leo: Adams and 36 W, it’s an address the killer left at the scene, they likely left some clues there. Part of a game to them. Efi: So they wanna be caught? Leo: I can’t answer that. Whether or not Nicole ends up following them, Leo and Efi would head to the address in question, with young Efina chattering the whole way

Nicole decides to follow Leo, mostly not able to do much due to his lack of a authority beyond being an regular citizen. "Regular" citizen. While nodded after to Leo's theories, though if he had guess any thing there won't be much. "Hmm... a game you say?" Said Nicole finally. "Oh yeah, my name is Nicole, I see yours is Leo and..." Nicole looked at the little girl not knowing her name "Well anyway, you say the killer wants to be caught. If it's a house then I'll guess it has to be whoever Miss. Jane Doe met. Which means it could have been a date, killer or both. Although, that much is already obvious I guess." Nicole shrugs and sighs

Efi: Efina. Nice to meet you. You seem pretty smart Efi gives Nicole a big smile, Leo on the other hand merely scowls and pulls his jacket a little higher Leo: maybe if he wasn’t totally wrong. It’s highly unlikely that our Jane Doe would have written down an address on her own in this day and age, if she was meeting someone they would simply text it to her, she obviously wasn’t poor so she doubtless had a phone. Therefore, it’s safe to assume the house in question is abandoned. Leo lets our a sigh, pulling Efi along with him, though the girl is obviously displeased with him Leo: If they were trying to be caught then they could easily turn themselves in. They prefer the feeling of the hunt. Which makes them exceptionally dangerous. Efi: You don’t have to be mean about it. Leo: I’m simply correcting him. All things considered I’d be glad for us to have a bodyguard

Shino glances over towards her... Foe? She's paranoid enough to think that whatever he's pulling out is, in fact, a weapon, and in seconds there'd be a shift in the woman's body. Her skin looking strange wire-ish, and her muscles would seem far stronger than they as she dashes across the roof with now blatantly inhuman speed. "Kid I've just heard you talking about not finding anything on a body, at worst you're a murderer. At best you just loot corpses. Either way, I can't exactly say it reassures me." With that, she'd sigh and look the boy over, her strange clearly ready to strike. Her right hand held on a blade sitting at her waist as she glances him over. "Now, I really don't want anyone getting needlessly hurt myself included. So mind telling me what you were trying to do up here? Maybe it was harmless, who knows." Considering the talk being had mere moments ago, she's almost sure it wasn't harmless. "Of course, if you're trying to quit doing dirty work then I might actually be willing to help. I'd know a thing or two about leaving employers who aren't willing to take "I quit" as an answer. Come on, let's be reasonable."

Scene One (Actors – Leo and Nicole): A Fork in the Road After a relatively short walk from the murder scene … Leo, his protégé Efi, and their new bodyguard Nicole arrive at the corner of a very dirty looking side street with few inhabitants. The sun itself seems to have dimmed in this area casting a long shadow as loose fliers toss and turn in the wind. However, what really seems to make the street seem otherworldly are all the shuttered areas and crumbly buildings. The only thing that really dares to stand out in this place is a two-storied building at the corner. Which advertises psychic assistance on a cheap signboard while wielding a neon sign at the top announcing the presence of a karaoke place. The group ends up sort of drifting into the building with nowhere else to really look. In the building … The hallway is uncomfortably tiny with a narrow set of stairs leading up to the available services there. A sign on the peeling wall indicates that psychic services are on the second floor and karaoke is on the third. Should the group look up they will notice a group of young women entering the karaoke place with clear excitement in their chattering. As a lone man anxiously enters the door on the second floor needing some answers to life’s inquiries. On the hunt for a murderer or murderers that like to play, the group will have to use their time wisely.

Scene Two (Actor – Shino): The Uppity Youth The young man falls back in clear astonishment upon facing Shino’s altered appearance and speed. Yet his voice held in the same playful tone he started with indicates otherwise. “Wow lady I barely had to say anything and you’re already treating me like some broken bird. You must be the gullible sort ain’t ya.”, the young man clicks his teeth while ruffling a pocket of his sweater. Suddenly he moves launching a fork at Shino’s leg. This basic kitchen utensil soars through the air aiming to hit below Shino’s left knee. Stepping back after the toss the young man then excitedly states, “Bet your one of those poor girls who was bullied for having an arrogant attitude.” A chuckle escapes the young man’s mouth as he points at Shino for effect. “I’m no murderer just a kid that likes finding cool items from fun places. You can call me a treasure hunter or something! But I’ll be damned if I have to work with someone like you.” The young man then sighs and looks away with sudden disinterest. “You seem too boring.”

(My next update will come 24 hours from now since I have to deal with some work stuff tomorrow. Sorry for the suddenness of this. People are welcome to catch up to the story of this, ask me anything, or do some character interaction during this longer period. Also other can still join in on this story as long as they find a way to fit in with the things laid out so far.)

(Thanks for telling me. I could write you a way in with the next update if Dahlia still does not respond. Was planning to anyway since things were getting a bit ahead.)

She'd grin a bit suddenly, the mirth in her voice now all too apparent even through the mask. "Oh, so it seems that you're the kind of person who just attacks out of nowhere when people offer to help... Hehe, if you wanted to dance kid then you should have said something!" As the fork flies towards her, another shift occurs within the woman's body. This time the area of skin it hits would turn entirely to black metal, assuming the fork was in fact meant to use physical force it would likely clang against her and leave at most a dent. Of course, moments later her defense fades. "So, my turn then." Her blade was already out even as the metal formed, and with a few seconds more she'd begin rushing across the field. Ready to strike and... Runs right past him, a strange shape taking form in the boy's field of vision. A thing that stands about eight feet tall, made of the same black metal her skin had become and with flecks of flame flowing all around it. "And by mine I mean its, because I really don't have time for you so I'll let my 'friend' deal with this." The Demonic Avatar rushes towards the boy, striking quickly but without intent to kill at the moment. As if it were simply testing him. Even as its owner aims to move away into the shadows.

OOC: Sorry. I've been busy lately and completely forgot about this. *Dahlia would hum slightly as she inspected the orb, flinching in suprise as the orb vibrated.* Woah. Isaac: Hmm. "Missy Lead" Hee hee. Miss Lead then. Isaac: Heh. I suppose so. Still, I wonder if this is... No way. Probably someone who was in the crowd who dropped this. Still, finders keepers as they say. Isaac: Hmm. If they're not here, I suppose this isn't much we can do, is there. Well, hold onto it for now. In case this "Miss Lead" comes back for it. Right.

Suddenly, Shadow Thieves

Leo and Efi head into the dilapidated building, as expected its some sort of business or hangout place, which means they're liable to find some sort of clue, having never seen one of these before, Efina stops by the psychic place Efi: Ooooh, we should go here papa. Leo: You can check it out, I'll be heading up towards the crowd we need to split up for this anyways Efi: Why not come with me? With a sigh, Leo flicks Efina in the head, not very hard but more than enough to sting, the girl rubs her head, but seems used to this sort of treatment Leo: We're here to track someone down, not play runt. Just remember to report anything interesting to me, alright? Efi: Alright, you don't have to be so mean about it. With that settled, the pair would split up, with Leo heading towards the karaoke joint while Efi heads straight inside the psychic parlor, as he walks up the stairs, Leo would turn back to Nicole Leo: I'd suggest you follow the brat, I can protect myself pretty well after all. Not sure what to expect on her end. without further ado, Leo heads up the stairs and into the karaoke place

OOC: Hi I keep reading this thread's name as "An Inexplicable Nep" and it makes me double take each time. There's no point in telling you this, I just thought I should. Goodbye.

Scene One (Actor- Shino): Millennials these Days The young man whistles upon seeing the metallic transformation taking shape on Shino’s flesh and his eyes imperceptibly widen. The faced paced movements that follow seem almost whimsical to the young man who lacks any special sort of sight. Thus, the demonic avatar strikes the young man directly in the chest before he has any time to really react appropriately. Since the demonic avatar was holding back it’s true force the young man simply tumbles a bit before lying in a heap across the roof. His tattered sweater ends up flying in the process allowing his silver phone to land face first with a tiny, cracking noise. “Okay lady I take it back you are pretty freaking cool. You must have been a ninja or an assassin in some past life to have moves like that.” The young man slowly sits up and grins in a dazed manner. His mouth continues moving but not much sense comes out, “Can ya also shoot out fire like the stupid cappo or some snow like the emo puppet?” Tilting his head quizzically after asking the young man’s gaze finally meets his fallen phone. He blinks a few times as if trying to block out the sight. Yet reality soon hits causing him to let out a strangled breath as he stamps his feet like a toddler. “Great just great now I’m getting left out of all the cool action,” the young man whines adding a pesky little detail at the end, “Oh and someone will probably come kill me now. Gonna take ages to get blood stains out of my stuff… again.”

Scene Two (Actors – Dahlia and Alt): An Enchanting Maneuver Every single time Dahlia and her partner Isaac say the words “Missy Lead” or “Miss Lead” the gemstone in Dahlia’s hand reacts with vibrating movements. It even seems to shine a bit more with each continuous repetition of the words. To the casual observer this occurrence could easily be attributed to the harsh wintery winds. Yet to anyone having paid attention since the beginning the vibrations and their continued occurrence would be clear as the light of day. Dahlia doesn’t do too much to block out the growing shine either, so Alt can easily pick it up while watching her. From the corner of his eye, Alt soon spots a middle-aged man equipped in casual beach wear. The man outright shoves people out of his way with an umbrella in hand and follows a blatant path to Dahlia and her partner. His pace quick enough to get him where he clearly wants to be in almost record time. If the man caught Alt’s eye with his initial entry, then his forceful way of doing things must have garnered some attention. Once the man is at the place where he wants to be which is behind the two teens and their newly acquired gem. He practically looms over them and snatches the precious stone right out of Dahlia’s finger tips with no “please” or “may I” in between. “I’ll be taking what is rightfully mine thank you very much”, are the only words the man utters to the two teens as he begins to rub the stone itself between his greedy fingertips. He doesn’t even bother to acknowledge anything else making the stone his only priority for the day. Alt from his outsider’s perspective notes all these happenings from the arrival of a stranger to the interesting effects of the gem. He even notices a black van that seems to be following the two teenagers he found interest in.

Scene Three (Actor – Leo): Then there was One What greets Leo upon his entry is a small, nicely decorated room with an extra-long hallway to the right side. A huge screen displaying videos of random people singing in live time covers the wall to his left and a cheesy love ballad plays on the shop speakers. At the front of him is a white marble counter lined with snacks and a drink display hanging above it. A garish neon sign right next to the display makes it clear that happy hour is dominating the place as the group of girls that entered before him talk to the attendee of the counter. Each member of the group signs a large white binder that the attendant presents to them and once they are finished they make their way to the right down the hall. Leaving Leo’s view once they open the brown door to a room. The attendant a young lady in proper styled uniform turns her overly cheerful gaze to Leo once she places two more bottles of champagne on the counter. She soon beckons Leo to come forward with a friendly wave of her hand as she pulls out a fancy pen. “Welcome to Heavenly Karaoke Mister.” She clicks her pen open readying herself for some note taking. “Do you have a reservation with us today or are you here for a free session?”

Nicole took up his new position as guard and turned to Leo with a nod, conforming there status. There was one thing that was strange about all this and especially about the women. To Nicole at least, he believes that the murder was connected to the victim, not from the case but knew each other on some level. What Leo said made sense to him, she would have a phone. But she didn't have one on her body when she died which means Leo is wrong or the more obvious that the killer took it. "That's fine by me, after all they might not let someone so young get their fortune." With that, Nicole adjusted his hat and walked up the stairs following Efil.

Scene Four (Actors – Efina and Nicole): A Task for Two Once they reach the second floor all Nicole needs to do is open a lavender colored door and he finds himself in a surprisingly large room with darkened lighting and a single wooden table at the center of it. Taking his cue Efina enters right behind him. There don’t seem to be any other rooms of note in the area, but the first thing the two can pick out is the sound of footsteps from the above ceiling. The noise doesn’t seem to bother the anxious man that entered the two of them and an older lady at the head of the table barely blinks. She simply shuffles her cards and spreads them on the table as the anxious man takes a seat in front of her. There are three chairs left to the right and left of the man. As Nicole and Efina take their time studying the place the older lady grows impatient with their dawdling. She eventually has enough and slams her finished deck on the table calling the two over with a rough voice. “Now are the two of you just gonna gawk all day or are you here to have your fortunes read?”

What the- Hey! *Dahlia would hop slightly and snatches the orb back* Excuse me, Sir, but you don't look like a "Missy". Isaac: Dahlia. Also, at least ask before snatching things off of me like that. It's rude. Isaac: Dahlia... And what's with that outfit? Hello? It's January. It's cold. How are you not uncomfortable wearing that? At least cover up your- Isaac: DAHLIA! *Dahlia jumps in surprise, almost dropping the orb.* Gah! Isaac: While I admit his actions were rude, He charged here with much vigor, so he must have known what he was looking for. Please give him the orb back. I... er... fine. But only if you appologize. Then I'll happily return the orb to you. We got a deal, mister rude shorts? *Dahlia holds the orb between two of her fingers, holding the hand it was held in behind her head.*

(The arrival of the phantom thieves and the Hyperdimension Neptunia reference in between updates was pretty funny to me XD. As for all the sorries I recieved its really not a problem for me. I understand people have lives and am willing to continue including people after a missed update or two. Three and you die jk. Also if anyone has any questions about this thread or have no idea what to do next then throw me an query. I'm cool with answering anything that comes up. With all that said I will sadly have to inform everyone that the next update will take another 24 hours. Have more work tomorrow too T-T. I'll try to stick to the 12 hour pace I initially set but sometimes will have to go to 24 hours as things come up. Please bear with me.)

Scene 3- Leo The tall man takes a quick look at his surroundings, monitoring the clothing, accessories, etc. Of all in the area for his own later use, and more importantly taking the glance at the signing book and mentally taking note of a few of the names in it. For now, the man lets out a sigh before giving the attendant a friendly grin Leo: Ah, about that, I've got a friend who invited me out to this place, but he neglected to mention what name our group was under, and I'm not sure if he's arrive yet. I suppose I'd like to take a free session and see if I can find him, if not I'll just have to wait a bit. Scene 4- Efina Without Hesitation, Efina walks by the more nervous man and, with a little struggle, takes a seat at one of the three chairs, she looks a bit around but doesn't pay too much attention to her surroundings. Unaware of the formalities of this kinda thing She starts asking questions Efi: How do you see the future? One of those crystal orb things?

Nicole glanced at the ceiling one last time before following Efina cue, sitting next to her and looking ahead at the fortune teller, putting his bag on the ground while he does. No way to run a business if you treat your clients like this, though if you you could see the future then maybe you too will like to hurry things a long. "Fortune telling? What do you what us to do exactly?" i get it, don't stress yourself too much over it, things happen. Hope everything turns out fine for you!

Alt would consider his own options. He was curious about how events would play out from here on out but also conflicted because he didn't simply want to see the orb given away. It was certainly interesting enough to try to study himself. He'd reach into his pocket and pull out what seemed to be a small corked vial. He'd uncork it and set it on the ground. A thick cloud of fog would quickly spread out from the vial in an attempt to cover the area. "Some acid fog should let me act with a little freedom. Luckily, this won't be harmful to any humans or fabric. Hope there's no animals around though..." Alt would then attempt to get closer to where the orb was, being careful to let the fog cover the area before proceeding too hastily.

(Scene One (Actor- Shino): Millennials these Days) She'd Sigh a bit, stating over at the boy from her position of now a couple roofs away. "Damn brat, oh well. Not like he can probably do much to the Avatar..." The thing stares down at him before speaking in a deep and clearly womanly voice. "You know, I could get you out of here..." Its wings beat and a grin forms over it's face. "Tell ya what, if you want an escape plan rather than all kinds of issues. Just give over what you know about this, the wings aren't for show."

Scene One (Actors – Dahlia and Alt): The Chosen Gem The man raises an eyebrow at Dahlia and Isaac as his mouth thins into an annoyed line. There is a pause to his behavior with his left foot tapping out the seconds and he mimes a pensive expression. Seeming to seriously take Dahlia’s words to heart. “So normal people see the gem as an orb.”, The man then peers at the stone with a curious gaze, “Interesting. Guess I have to thank Lead for getting herself killed.” The man moves in close to Dahlia and reaches for the gem with the same energy he had before. Only this time he watches her as he does so since Dahlia has earned his acknowledgement. “Miss Lead died and that gem you have happens to be mine. So I don’t need to apologize to children who stole my rightful property.” Yet before the man can snatch the gem and Dahlia can react a thick fog starts to surround them beginning to obscure everything from view. Dahlia and Isaac lose sight of the man in front of them or anything else around them with only the tall building above as a guide. While the man stops and quickly gazes around the field of pure gray as if expecting an attack. The rest of the people in the park begin to panic and shout can be heard as the police frantically search for a way to clear the area. Alt having waited for the fog to work quickly moves in and soon makes it between the man and Dahlia. The item he desired acting as a tiny source of light in the gray he created.

Scene Two (Actor – Leo): Heavenly Karaoke After taking stock his surroundings, Leo notices that the cameras in the place work like normal street cams. Taking live time footage of all the singers and possibly saving previous footage of past dates. Leo also notes a few interesting names in the white sign-in book sitting on top of the counter. Missy Lead Morte Delancy Casey Abrahms Lucille Kirtland Sandra Cruz Not sensing anything amiss the attendant watches Leo as he studies the place and maintains her friendly smile. When Leo finally decides to ask her a question she is ready with another blue binder at hand. “Not to worry sir, I could just check the group reservations for you.” The attendant opens the blue binder and carefully thumbs her way to a specific page. Humming when the page is found she then taps her manicured nail along each name. Frowning when she can only find one listed group for today. “Hmm are you sure you didn’t get the date wrong? Only group listed just went in and no guy was listed in it. There was one group yesterday with a man in it. The only one out of many since Karaoke isn’t too popular with the guy these days.” Wanting to assist to the best of her ability the attendant flips the blue binder for Leo to see. On the previous day page there is a listed group of three under the names of Missy Lead, Morte Delancy with a minor listed under them. "You should try calling your friend in case he gave you the wrong date."

Scene Three (Actors – Efina and Nicole): Psychic Den The old lady softens her gaze as Efi approaches the table. Laughing in a gentle manner behind her hands once Efi asks her innocent question. The anxious man sitting next to Efi also appears to pay some attention to her, but his narrowed gaze is verging on something else. The old lady allows the card to fly between her hands picking one out in the process and presenting it to the group. Lined with ribbons of gold it is a highly decorated picture with a blackened goat head marked by a pentagram on its center. The bottom of the card has a hand tied by many strings reaching out to the head of the fanged goat. Creating a very unusual artistry for what could pass as a regular playing card to some. “Crystal orbs are the tricks of charlatans dear. A true psychic uses the cards to read the future that may befall you.”, The old lady taps the card on the table three times and allows the group one last look before reshuffling it. “That card just happened to be the devil.” Nicole joins the table as the anxious man upon hearing the nature of the card jumps back with clear fright evident on his face. The old lady simply gives everyone a conspiratorial wink after her minor presentation and finally finishes arranging her deck into a neat pile. Answering Nicole’s question, she says, “Assuming you came to see the future I will go one by one in asking each of you to pick out three cards from the mess I’m about to make.” The old lady swipes at the neat pile forcing the cards into a haphazard mess on the table. “I’ll start with the latecomer.” The old lady glances expectantly at Nicole.

Scene Four (Actor – Shino): Adults Take Charge “I damn hope they’re not since the wings are pretty damn cool.” After saying this the young man crawls over to his damaged phone shaking it for clear signs of life. A few pieces of glass immediately fall off the screen upon shaking and the screen turns on revealing low battery life as well as four missed calls. The young man frowns and mumbles, “That is not good. Five and I’ll be lucky to eat another crepe again.”, Seizing his hair the young man looks upward at the sky dramatically yelling, “The world will soon be deprived of my future crime boss ways.” After that theatrical moment, the young man’s phone rings again for the fifth time and the youth blankly looks at it. “Take it.” With barely a thought the young man tosses the phone to Shino’s avatar as it continues to ring. “You want to help me then answer my boring boss for me.” On the phone’s screen is an unidentified number and it’s continuous ringing suggest that the young man’s boss many not be pleased with him right now. Not that the youth cares as he moves near the ledge of the roof to see the park below covered in a gray fog. He lets out a low whistle at the sight.

Children?! *Dahlia holds the Gem as far back as she can while her other hand slowly goes for her pocket.* Can I stab him? I wanna stab him. Isaac: Dahlia no. We talked about this. No stabbing random passerbys. No matter how rude they are, it's still a crime. Well that's... hmm? *It is then that the fog appears, blocking Dahlia's view.* Isaac. Someone's trying to block the vision of everyone in the area. Isaac: I see. Come on. *Isaac grabs Dahlia by the arm and guides through the crowd, separating themselves from the man.* Isaac: You should've let that guy have the orb you know. Like I was gonna let that asshole have something. Even if it is his, he can at least be a little more thankful that I found it for him. Isaac: I suppose... hmm? *Isaac would look in Alt's direction as he approaches, somehow detecting him through the fog.* Isaac: We've got incoming.

Nicole thought to himself. This may not pertain to the investigation, sure but his curiosity was peaked. Regardless, he doubt he'll get any info out of her until he does the fortune telling, it just seemed to be that kinda of thing. "That's fine with me, but can I ask." Nicole shifted in his seat. "Can I ask you some questions?"

Scene Two- Leo Leo looks carefully at the blue book and breathes out a sigh, not that he was expecting any different, more to keep with his current facade. Leo: I actually don’t have a phone, so he never bothered giving me his number. I’ll have to meet up with him about it. But since I came out all this way.... Leo puts a finger on his chin, thinking for a moment. Either the killer or victim was likely here at some point, otherwise there would be no need for the address, right now there are at least two regulars in here, so there’s some chance they might have seen something, if nothing else it would narrow the options. Leo opens his eyes again and nods to the attendant Leo: I guess I may as well check it out then, you mentioned a sample session earlier yes? Scene 3- Efi Efi watches the deer handle their cards with childlike wonder. The girl oohs at the picture on the Devil card, before sitting back down with a humph Efi: I wanted to go first...

Alt would pause for a moment having noticed the others move away due to the fog, with the orb in tow. He certainly didn't think the fog would have worked so well to scare and confuse everyone present. He'd begin backing off Dahlia and Isaac in order not to frighten them too much or make himself look too much like an enemy. "Interesting, maybe I should interrogate that man from before to figure out exactly what the orb is. The alchemist in me is starting to get very curious."

Scene One (Actors – Dahlia and Alt): Unnatural Disasters As Dahlia and her partner Isaac continue a collision course to Alt the original bringer of the fog. The many people who gathered to witness a tragedy disperse like rodents onto the less fogged up streets. Plenty of officers attempt to corral the people in an organized manner, but the desire of flight wins out causing some spectators to suffer from crowd-based injury. Some people even begin to shout out extreme fallacies that only serve to incite the mob of people more. Creating an unusual disaster scenario in the middle of a greater organized area. Despite Alt’s attempts he soon ends up right in front of Dahlia and Isaac. However, before anything of importance can be discussed a loud explosive noise can be heard nearby. Whatever created the noise ends up being close enough to cause the ground to tremble beneath Dahlia, Alt, and Isaac. A heat flash soon follows causing the park itself to feel like hot pavement despite it being the middle of winter. Should Dahlia and Alt look back they will notice an orange tinge to the once grey fog and the man from before right at the center of it. The man’s fanged smile a sight to behold in the midst of all this chaos. “Children no one steals from me.”

Scene Two (Actor – Leo): A New Friend Before the attendant can answer Leo’s question a hand is gently placed on his right shoulder and a low voice comes to his ears. “Thanks for waiting so long for me friend.” The hand on Leo’s shoulder is almost ice cold and the new voice is low enough to remind anyone of a dreary moment in their lives. Yet the eyes of the man now standing beside Leo are alive enough to make anyone nearby shiver. “Room for two please miss.” The man waves two fingers in front of both he and Leo and the attendant merely blinks as if he were always there. As if the man were as natural to the place as air. Hardly breaking character, she immediately picks up the white binder off the counter and offers a pen for the two to sign. Smiling she says, “I didn’t expect you to be back so soon mister and with yet another friend. You must be pretty popular buuut …”, the attendant takes a second to jab the man with a pen, “Next time I would like to see some reservations please. You know we are not free like this all the time.” The man lets out a light laugh at the attendant’s antics and carefully takes her pen signing for both he and Leo. The man is even slow enough in signing to allow Leo to see the name he has written for himself. Morte Delancy Once finished the man hands back the binder to the attendant and waits until she heads to a room behind the counter. His eyes following her the entire time until she is gone. The man then leans in close to Leo allowing Leo to notice his deathly pale skin and clear blue veins. In his low voice the man gently tells Leo, “Follow me without any trouble or that sweet little girl right below us will be next.” By the time the attendant comes back the man is once again away from Leo and graciously accepting two microphones. The man thanks the attendant one last time and heads into the first room to the right of the long hallway. Entering and then allowing the door to shut slowly behind him.

Scene Three (Actor – Nicole and Efina): Pick a Card any Card The old lady narrows her eyes at Nicole after his question soon releasing her gaze with a satisfied huff. Luckily for Nicole whatever she was attempting to find was not there written on his face. She spends a few seconds looking at the faces of the anxious man and Efina eventually saying, “I might answer some of your questions while doing my reading. Though I reserve my right to choose which of course. Nothing offense either.” “I know how sneaky young men like you can be.” The old lady leans back on her chair clearly expecting Nicole to do the majority of the set up. “To start this reading, I need you to pick three cards. Any of the cards can do if you feel it’s the best choice you can make. Also, no peeking I expect the three cards you pick to be face down in front of you once you have finished.” Having said her bit with an instructor’s tone she waits for Nicole to finish the task. This leaves Nicole with all sorts of potential choices from the table. Two cards lying of top of each near the center A card about to fall off the table A card with a slightly folded tip A card with a tea stain A card that looks sort of weird in the light A card that is near Efina A card near the anxious man And finally, a card lying right in front of where he is sitting So many choices but Nicole can only pick three that determine his future. If he believes in tarot reading that is.

(With this update I once again go into a 24 hour hibernation period. Will still be around to answer any questions but not around enough to continue in the morning.)

Shino's avatar just sighs as it catches the phone. Staring at the thing for a moment before deciding to pick up. Though not before asking something. "So, should I try to seem harmless or did you want threatening...?" With that it picks up the phone. Its master glancing around at the fog down below even as she moves away, Maybe someone made it with magic? Ugh, hopefully not Awakened if so. She's staying well clear of if for now, leaping from roof to roof with relative ease.

*Isaac would step between Alt and Dahlia. But, before he could speak, he is distracted by something else in the fog. He then turns back to Dahlia.* Isaac: We have to get out of here. Quickly. Leave the orb behind. What? Why? Isaac: Believe me. It's not worth it. And as for you... *Isaac would look at Alt.* Isaac: I suggest you think a bit about what your doing before causing mass panic. I don't know what your after, but I doubt it's worth being such a pain in the neck. Uh. Who are you talking to? Isaac: It doesn't matter. Drop the orb and let's go. *Dahlia whines.* But I like it. It's pretty. Isaac Now's not the time to be petty. *Even still, Dahlia refuses to give up the orb. Isaac sighs.* Isaac: Fine. Let's just move.

scene 2 - Leo Leo doesn't flinch or seem surprised, though its like the icy-cold touch of death itself is upon him, the man simply calmly glances back at Morte with a sigh as he signs their names Leo: You should warn me next time. I had just about given up on you. of course he had always been planning to confront someone here, so he doesn't even need the little threat to convince Leo to follow along. In fact, he acts as though he hadn't even heard it. Leo gladly accepts his own mic before following the man into the karaoke room and asking a simple question Leo: Are these things soundproof? Scene 3 - Efi Efi tries sitting still for a while, letting Nicole concentrate on his choices before she can't take it anymore and speaks up Efi: Can I look at them?

The shadow thieves teleport in "It's dharkness stealing time."

Scene One (Actor – Shino): An Oath of Harm The young man looks up for a quick second and offers Shino’s avatar a shrug. “Hell if I know lady, my current boss is a real nut case. Your better off asking the sky if it will rain or snow tomorrow than guessing her mood.” With that said the young man flips his legs over the side of the building and sits on the edge of the roof. He swings his leg to some tempo only unknown to himself as he studies the changing hues of the fog. Meanwhile, Shino’s avatar presses the button to answer the call is immediately met with a calming feminine voice. “Will I expect you to have that gem you promised me.” “I have been very kind with you and should I receive a disappointing answer now …”, A palpable pause stretches in between the statement, “Well I hope you lack a fondness for your heart or legs. Both will be needed to feed my next experiment.”

Scene Two (Actor – Leo): Playing Normal Morte raps his pale knuckles against the mahogany of the room and states, “This room is able to blanket the sound of a gunshot or an entire marching band should the need arise. So I would have to say yes the room is very soundproof.” “Hopefully you don’t mind my friendly detective.” A metallic lining along the wooded areas of the room and the rugged floor support Morte’s claim. Yet other portions of the room are clearly intended for comfort such as the padded seats and the table at the center to hold any mislaid items. The main attraction happens to be a huge tv alongside the door with lyrics already on screen as a classic Christmas tune plays in the background. “Come make yourself comfortable and take a seat.” Morte already seated at a corner of the room stares at Leo while patting a portion of the padding next to him. Morte’s mannerisms mimic the pinnacle of friendliness without the smile to accompany it. “I believe we have a lot to discuss since you have been sniffing around where you don’t belong. Like an unwelcome rat to a fancy dinner wouldn’t you say?”

Scene Three (Actor – Dahlia): Fiery Discipline Dahlia and Isaac run away from the looming orange fog and the man concealed within it until they reach a set of steps leading to the open street. The street itself is significantly emptier than usual by now with the rest of the mob having scattered to all corners of the city. However, there are still a decent number of people running around that could mask the presence of Dahlia and Isaac should they make it. Which is a possibility that seems more impossible by the second as the man walks out of the fog with his gaze blatantly focused on the teens. The man menacingly says, “Whatever happens now is the direct fault of you children.” His hands then seem to glow on their own with a clear orange energy and the sizzling air above his palms indicate the presence of heat. The man displays his glowing palms in a wide-open gesture as if he is about to give both Dahlia and Isaac a hug. One that could very well burn them alive given the pure heat he is producing. “Come to papa children I would like to show you what happens to naughty kids.”

(Tomorrow I will be taking the day off from updating to finalize work and fix a few plot points. Next update will be on Tuesday same time pattern.)

Nicole looked across the cards and turns to the pouty Efi with a small sigh. Nicole decides to take the card near Efina, the one with a strange lighting on it and one about to fall off the table. He moves them all in front of him. "Here... so now what?" Nicole looked at the fortune teller with a curious stare. Sorry about that, my post didn't send

*Dahlia and Isaac look back at the man.* ...Hot. Isaac: Really? Is now the time for that? What? You can't see it, but he's literally on fire right now. Isaac: I told you to get rid of the orb. Well I like it. Can I stab him now? *Isaac sighed.* Isaac: I don't see another way out of this. You have the floor. I'll back you up. Nice. *Dahlia reached into her pocket and brings out a switch blade, putting the orb into her other pocket. She spins it in her hand, before holding it reverse grip, chuckling sadistically. Behind her, Isaac takes his paintbrush out again.* Well come on then "Daddy". You daughter wants to play. Hee hee hee.

Alt would have remained where he was. He was unaffected by Isaac's words as all he did was spread some fog. It seemed strange to him that people reacted so strongly to something so mundane. Regardless, he would continue watching as the man chased the two but would seem hesitant to get involved. "Maybe I should interfere? This is seeming to get more dangerous but I don't exactly like getting involved in things like this." He'd pull out a strange looking orb with a fuse sticking out from the top of it. The outside of the orb seemed to have a constant layer of ice spreading around it as if the orb itself was slive in some way. "Just in case..."

Scene 2 - Leo Leo:All the better that it is. Leo takes a seat next to Morte, keeping his air of calm indifference as he glances around the room, nothing too odd about it, save for the location, you'd normally expect anywhere in a cheap location to be seriously lacking itself, but everything seems properly in order. Leo tilts his head downward in a nod Leo: I get told that a lot friend, but it usually ends well for everyone. Lets hope this is no different. I take it you know something about that piece of art that showed up in the park earlier? sorry it took me so long, forgot this existed for a bit

Scene One (Actors – Nicole and Efina): Ominous Fortunes “Now we read your future.” With an enigmatic smile the old lady grabs Nicole’s left hand and guides it to the first card he picked. Using his left hand, she then clutches the card and flips it over face up for everyone to see. The flipped card depicts a wheel with strange markings on it surrounded by angelic creatures and clouds. Standing on the top of the wheel is a lion with the face of a man and beneath it is a man with the face of a dog. The card is upside down with the words on it resting at the very top of its artistry. Wheel of Fortune The old lady closes her eyes after the card is flipped and once she opens them again she stares at Efina rather than Nicole. She declares, “The first card in this reading is meant to tell us where you stand in the present. Which does not seem to be a great place after drawing the wheel of fortune in reverse. You or rather the two of you are stuck in a cycle that brings greater danger the longer you are in it. Stay in it for too long and misfortune will plague you like an illness.” Wizened eyes then meet Nicole’s gaze as the old lady uses his hand once again to flip over a card. This time she goes for the second card he picked. Once flipped the card presents a picture featuring a brilliant sun behind a tiny boy on horseback waving a huge banner. This time the words are at the bottom of the card and can be properly read with little effort. The Sun Without a moment to spare the old lady states, “The second card is meant to represent what you aspire for. Getting the sun on this part of reading indicates that you want success in something you have recently taken on. Should you succeed the card tells us that you will bring the people currently around you joy or warmth they did not know they needed. Finally, the old lady places Nicole’s hand on the last card he picked out of the three. “The final card we flip will be the one that tells you how to achieve your recent aspiration. You better hope it’s a lucky one.” The old lady proceeds to flip the card that Nicole saved from the edges of the table and leans back in her seat to allow the implications of the card to sink in. On the final card is a tower on fire with many people falling out of it one by one. Above the tower is a cloudy sky with a lightning bolt splitting the clouds in half and touching a side of the tower with its tip. The words giving away the nature of the card lie at the bottom of the tower. The Tower The old lady looks grim and gently reports, “There will be chaos before your aspiration and the benefits reaped from it can be achieved. You will learn new things you may never have considered but at the same time change will be pushed upon you. The kind of change that could shatter your world and those who reside in it.”, Cupping Nicole’s hands in hers for the last time the old lady gives him a pitying look, “Be careful lad they do say times are changing.” After her utterance a loud bang can clearly be heard from the above floor and the anxious man sitting at the table lets out a yelp. The old lady willfully ignores it asking the group. “So who wants to go next?”

Scene Two (Actors – Dahlia and Alt): Tag Teaming The man needs no cue from Dahlia already charging at her with his left palm aglow in warm orange. His eyes encircled with gold the man pulls out no weapons showing clear intent to strike at Dahlia and Isaac with nothing but his bare hands. “Daddy is no proper way to refer to a superior you brat.” In a mocking tone the man declares, “I insist you call me Mr. Emrys while you get in the way of my business.” Before he is within punching distance of Dahlia the man suddenly side steps and aims a burning fist at her partner Isaac. Alt watches all of this unfold as he contemplates the possibility of involving himself. Since he is outside of the actual fight he can notice the approach of a black suited individual behind Dahlia. The teens in front of him don’t seem to sense the approach having been distracted by the man, but Alt can see a small black device in the hands of the newcomer. The device sparking on its ends and aimed at Dahlia clear as day.

Scene Three (Actor – Leo): Passing Red Flags “Given that the piece of art was my fiancé. I would have to admit to knowing a thing or two.” Morte pleasantly smiles not seeming the least bit bothered by Leo’s words. His hands rest on his legs and his body remains stoic. His face betraying no sense of emotion to his response. “Enough about me though. We could talk for ages about me and you wouldn’t ever understand anything would you detective.”, Morte stares at Leo as if peering into his soul, “Let’s talk about you and this little case you want to solve.” Morte blandly states, “You are playing a big game with forces beyond comprehension.” “Forces that don’t take kindly to outsiders looking in.” He wanders his eyes up to Leo’s and gives a pitying smile. “Go home, fall in love with someone, take care of that little girl of yours just live a long life. I would hate to see someone as young as you die in vain.”

Shino's avatar sighs into the phone, shaking its head for q moment before replying. "Word of advice, people tend to be less inclined to screw you over when you don't issue death threats over every setback. Don't bother asking who I am, your don't need to know." It glances around for a moment, looking to see exactly how high the fog is. Perhaps it could be used as cover in an attempt to leave? "Anyways, I haven't seen any gems around here. And if this is how you treat your employees I'd consider not delivering out of spite. That's Ms. Blade signing off, don't come looking. Or do, I'm sure I can kill whatever poor idiots you send." There's little chance she'd actually back down as the avatar closes the call, but at the least it shows she's not the kid, or scared. "Ugh, I can see your issue with her. We should probably ditch this phone by the way, chances are decent she can track it if she's smart. That said, leaving also seems good."

*Dahlia gasps as Emrys punches past her before speaking in a mocking tone.* Oh no. It's not like this happens all the time and your trying to punch a blind guy cause he's weaker than the deranged girl with the knife. How unexpected. Oh no. *Isaac swings his paintbrush up. From the ground, a plume of ink strikes up before solidifying into a shield.* Isaac: And know your blows been blocked that leaves your back open to said deranged girl with a knife. *As Isaac explains this, Dahlia leaps into the air and goes to drive her knife into Enrys' shoulder.* IsaacL Which in turn means your life is now much harder for a reason you'll see in a minute. As such, once again, someone ignoring the threat to try and take out to "support" has ended in the attacking party being more in trouble than the defending party. Geez. It's almost like we've done this before, Dahl. I know. Strange huh? Well, being as we know the two paths that could happen now, do you have any questions, "Daddy"? You know. Before you keep doing stupid stuff. *Dahlia giggles before kicking off of Enrys back and taking her dagger out of his shoulder, landing behind him. Enrys' blood clings to Dahlia's knife as she does so.*

Scene 1 Efi Efina keeps her eyes on the cards, trying to keep them in mind, but her attention span isn’t that great so she ends up starting to nod off before being brought back to attention by the loud noise, eagerly answering the old woman’s question Efi: Ooh let me go next. I wanna see what’ll happen to Papa Leo and Efi. Scene 3- Leo Its somewhat of a relief to learn that the man in question was likely not the killer, after all they’d’ve never admitted to knowing the girl. At least not with any intention of letting Leo be. In addition, since the last time Leo had mentioned being a detective was in the park, it’s likely they already knew everything about that encounter. Regardless, Leo closes his eyes momentarily, breathing out a sigh before looking back at Morte, clearly exhausted Leo: you should know settling down isn’t really an option for people like me, and honestly the kid might be better off without me. that said, Leo takes a deep, calming breath before giving Morte an energetic grin Leo: But this sounds like a good chance for all three of us, you can have your fiancé avenged, then the kid and I will disappear like usual, never to be seen again

Alt would see the group behind Dahlia and Isaac approach as the two were distracted fighting Mr. Emrys. He wasn't sure what the device they were holding was but it seemed to intend harm towards the two. "Sneaking up on people seems pretty shady... Alright, I'll let them hold this." The fuse on the end of the orb would suddenly begin to spark with a bluish light. Alt would toss the orb at the men approaching behind Dahlia. The moment the orb touched the ground a reaction occurred. The orb would explode into a blue, glowing mist as the air itself would begin to rapidly cool. "Hey, you guys should watch out behind you!" All at once, the space where the orb once was would be taken up by a massive burst of ice that threatened to freeze anyone who got too close. Alt himself would begin pulling out a strange book with strange ancient symbols within that seemed to react to his touch.

Scene One (Actor – Shino): A New Ally and All His Enemies The young man whistles approvingly at the response of Shino’s avatar and approaches it with an outstretched hand. “That was a savage thing you did talking to my boss …”, the young man pauses and fixes his words, “Er former boss like that. The name is Will Chariot and I wouldn’t mind following you for a bit to see what happens next.” The phone remains dead as Shino and Will consider their next mode of action. Shino’s suggestion flows in Will’s head for a bit until the young man suddenly gets one of his own and shares it. “We could always toss the phone off the roof and head to the source of this. If you are still brave enough we could go directly to my former boss and teach her a lesson.” Will giggles at the thought of one upping his superior and adds, “the fog looks thick enough for us to lose any spies or tailers. Unless you want to fight them all that is.” “I wouldn’t mind beating the crap out of an extra one or two for their loot.”

Scene Two (Actors – Dahlia and Alt): Fire Meets Ice His strike blocked, Emrys lets out an audible gasp as Dahlia’s knife sinks into his skin only to be pulled out with an equal amount of force. Bright red blood immediately seeps out of his new wound and he lands on his arms after Dahlia uses him as a wall to kick off. While his ally a man in black now runs at Isaac the closest target to him. In such a state Emrys looks like the clear vulnerable party in this situation that should surrender before worse damage incurred. Yet he maintains his intense glare as his eyes glow all the brighter. The wind itself as if sympathizing with his plight whips around him like a powerful gale. While the orange glow from his hands spread to the rest of his body producing a heat that can potentially singe the eyebrows should one stand too close. Dahlia being one such person can likely feel the surge of heat as the ground below her cracks with an uncomfortable heat. “I told you to call me Emrys princess and I didn’t aim for your friend since he’s disabled.” Sticking out a leg of his, Emrys pulls at Dahlia’s ankle behind him. Potentially burning her ankle in the process with his complete casing of pure heat. “I did it since it felt like a natural way of doing things.” Tips of fire form at the edges of Emrys’ fingers that he aims at Isaac’s chest. “The strong eat the weak and the weak beg for forgiveness.” Whips of fire launch at Isaac after Emrys is finished talking as blue mist explodes around him, Dahlia, and Isaac. Fire meets ice at that moment and the two effectively cancel each other out with Emrys’ fire cooling upon contact. As the ice that forms from Alt’s device on the bodies of everyone involved fails to spread due to the presence of fire. All that is left is moderately warm air and a slight pause in action. The suit clad newcomer effectively stopped with the presence of ice at his heels.

Scene Three (Actor – Leo): A Trick and a Trap Morte sees the energetic, possibly hopeful grin on Leo’s face and shakes his head at the trust of it. It is obvious that he hoped for something else from Leo. An entirely different answer that could have made things different. His blank eyes fall downward to the floor and he grimaces. “Detective you have confirmed your intent to see this case to the end.” Morte points a finger at the above right corner of the room where a security camera rests hidden to anyone giving it a passing glance. “For your naivete the girl will disappear without you and my fiancée will still be dead.” In that moment, a tear slides down Morte’s pale cheek and he rests his head against the cushioned sheet. “I’m sorry for what comes next.” A loud explosive noise is heard from the bottom floor and vibrations can be felt after all is said and done for Morte.

Scene Four (Actor – Efi and Nicole): Kidnapping The old lady smiles at Efi’s enthusiasm and once again gathers her cards to prepare them for a second reading. She carefully places each card in the same direction and position reshuffling them while all the cards are together in a deck. Soon she once again taps the finished deck on the table three times and allows them to fall haphazardly. Whilst this process occurs the anxious man sitting next to Efi pulls out a tiny remote hidden in his pockets and thumbs a switch on it. The anxious man waits for an additional tap from above to be heard before he moves the switch. Minutes later … Everything is bathed in blinding white and the old lady as well as Nicole can hear a sharp ringing in their ears. Tarot cards are scattered around the floor as shards of glass trickle to the ground from the now ripped apart window frames. The once orderly psychic den now looks like a post battle field with its only two inhabitants covered in light scrapes and minor bruises. Efina and the anxious man are noticeably absent. In their place a card with fine writing on it. Mages Flask A bar and dining place for all ages Bring family and friends today We promise a thrilling experience! Located on: Weston and 8th The door to the den lies open flying freely on its destroyed hinges.

Scene Five (Actor – Efi): Car Trip Barely conscious due to her proximity with the explosive device, Efi registers two occupied seats in front of her. In front of her are her own two hands which are bound with steel cuffs and over her mouth she can feel a strip of duct tape. Snippets of a conversation come to her as she swims in and out awareness. “…ritual…tonight while…. girl” “Sacrifice … lucky” “…need one more.”

(Next update will be in 24 hours.)

Scene 3 - Leo Leo silently scolds himself for being so careless, he should have checked for cameras more thoroughly, it made some sense to have one after all. Though he's obviously irritated, he's also smart enough to know that yelling will get him nowhere, so instead he simply heads for the door, completely ignoring Morte for now as he tries to open it and head downstairs to the psychic parlor where the blast was likely to come from, giving the attendant no more than a good day that could barely pass for tolerant if she bothered him again. Scene 5 - Efi The last thing poor Efina remembered before waking up was trying to get her fortune read when there was this big noise. When she comes to she finds she can't move very well. She thought she remembered Leo saying something about mean people before, but she wasn't paying that much attention. Its not long before the girl drifts back to sleep

Alt would begin waving his fingers over different symbols within the book. Noticeably he would suddenly look significantly tired once the symbols began glowing with an eerie blue light. "Don't expect me to be able to do this more than a couple times... 'Book of Secret Arts Lectalion'!" The air around the newcomer would suddenly begin dripping with water as metal blades seemed to form in six spots around them, covered in plumes of water. "Sea God's Judgment... I'd recommend not moving! Otherwise, I'll have to release these blades!" Despite how serious he seemed it was obvious that simply using such an attack left Alt exhausted.

Nicole was in a daze, his mind reflecting over the fortunes he was given. A misfortune? Does she mean the case? I know we're trying to track a killer... but how can it get more dangerous than that? My aspiration to help them... do they mean the daughter and father? To the killer? And a change before my goal? Do they mean about the killer? Another killer? Maybe the killer is someone i know? Is it me? Before Nicole gets the chance to ask or even reflect upon the statements given to him he was bombareded by a flash of white burning light, his skin gets teared as he looks around Efi? Efi! Nicole cries out to the light nothingness. He takes the card when hes finally able to see, cursing under his breath. He failed his job. He's the worst Bodyguard ever Miss.... d-do you know what just happened here?

Grk *Dahlia would flinch slightly but hops back, her ankle thankfully not being too badly damaged. Isaac meanwhile would strike diagonally upwards with both of his hands, causing spikes of ink to rise in an X shape to block Enrys strike. Both of them are then taken by suprise by the ice.* What the- Isaac: You again? Never mind that. *Isaac touches the centre of the X of ink. Soon, a third spike would extend from the centre, flying at Enrys. Dahlia meanwhile would dodge around where their combatant, reaching Isaac's side.* So, Dad may be slightly mad. Same plan as always? Isaac: Yeah. Hope this mage can pull his own weight. *With a smirk, Dahlia would focus for a second before Enrys' blood on her blade starts to move, soon covering the blade and extending it from a small dagger into a shortsword. With a leap, she'd go straight for the head, bring her blade down on Enrys.* If what you say is true "Daddy", maybe you should start begging.

Scene One (Actors – Leo and Nicole): Peace After the Storm Shaken by the explosive noise downstairs the attendant pays little attention to Leo’s rather cold nicety. Having been left behind, Morte exits the room and give the attendant a firm hand for her to steady herself. The two watch as Leo heads downstairs secretly hoping for the best, but not expecting much given the intensity of the blast. Leo is soon in front of the damaged door to the psychic’s parlor and from where he is standing he can see the damage clear as day. The windows are nothing but twin holes in the terribly singed walls as pointed tips of glass lie scattered on the floor. Everything in the once immaculate and cozy place is now in a state of falling apart with Nicole and the old lady at its center. Holding a card in his hand, Nicole tries to ask the old lady a question to no avail. Despite being peppered with only light bruises the old lady appears unconscious for now. Her frail body having been unable to withstand the direct impact of whatever went off before.

Scene Two (Actors – Dahlia and Alt): Force, Force, and More Force Emrys gives Alt a deadpan look and declares in an annoyed tone, “I might have actually considered your little order there if I wasn’t currently being challenged by two brats.” Almost Immediately after his declaration, Emrys is made to bring up both his arms in front to block Isaac’s third spike. Right before the spikes hit his arms are covered in licking flames to melt the ink that created them. “Emrys watch out!” Dahlia's blade is blocked by the arm of the black suited assistant and it sinks into the assistant’s flesh. A howl of pain can be heard in that moment as blood runs down the loyal assistant’s arm and despite the injury the assistant still manages to hand over a phone to Emrys. “S-Sir you have a call …”, the black suited assistant falls to his knees clutching his bloodied sleeve and arm. Emrys takes the phone and completely ignores the assistant while aiming his free hand at Dahlia who remains within his reach. “You know this is a bad time for you to call.”, Emrys sighs as his free hand lashes out in a multitude of attempted punches, “I’m trying to get back the payment your wife lost.” Suddenly his eyes widen indicating that whatever is being said on the other end of the call is not the usual pleasantry or apology. “I’m surprised you went that far just to get me another gem. You could almost say I’m pleased for once with the rest of you guys. So pleased that I could grab you another kid if you promise to never lose my property again.”, Emrys’ curved smile is all anyone needs to know, and he starts moving his finger from Dahlia to Alt to Isaac mimicking a common children’s rhyme. “Eeenie, Meenie, Miney, you.” His wavering finger stops on Alt who appears to be the easiest target. He launches himself at Alt with a speed he didn’t present before with Dahlia. This time instead of having his hands outstretched he charges face first with his teeth turning into bright, enflamed fangs.

Alt would quickly try and turn the page of the book before starting to speak out loud. "Wedge of the Su-" For a moment a large flaming metal disc would form over his head before Emrys charges into him. The metallic objects from before, both the blades and the disc would begin disintegrating as Alt's book falls to the floor. "T-this is why I-I hate getting involved..."

Damn you. *The blood from both Emrys and his new friend both combine on Dahlia's left arm, forming a shield that would quickly be destroyed as Dahlia is sent rolling across the floor. Isaac reaches her sie quickly, standing in front of her.* Gah. What's these people? There annoying! Isaac: But nothing new. A brute force fire user is quite similar to someone we know, yes? At least that guy has some intelligence. So what's the plan? Isaac: A retreat would be best. I'm suprise a crowd hasn't already gathered. We should move before unpowered idiots looking for a good show decide to pay attention. And the mage? *Isaac sighed. With a thrust of his hand, a lance of black ink launched at Emrys in an attempt to distract him enough so that Alt can get away,* Isaac: There. We tried. That we did. Let's move. *Dahlia and Isaac begin to retreat further into the city.*

Leo:"At least you're still alive." Leo's ordinary, casual demeanor has mostly faded by now as he strides towards Nicole, helping pick the other man off the floor as he looks over to the older woman Leo:"She'll be fine, I've seen much much worse, more importantly where's Efina?" not that he was expecting much of an answer given what Morte told him and the apparent state of the room. Its far more important for the two to gather their wits and get started on any clues they had left. Whoever took Efi would undoubtedly notice what she was sooner or later, and that made her valuable, so she's likely not dead yet. That said with no idea what he's getting into, Leo was going to need some help

Shino's avatar raises a hand to its chin, pondering for a moment. "Hmm, following me eh? Generally, I'd say no. But there's been a lapse in my usual foes which makes that considerably less dangerous than normal. Nice to meet ya Will, you can just call me Ms. Blade. That's not my real name, but eh it works." It would then chuckle a bit at the thought of direct battle. "As for dealing with her head on... I prefer to strike from the shadows, and this avatar won't last forever anyway. If you think she'll be an issue to me from here on though, I'm not shy about removing problems. For now, though let's go ahead and get back to the real me... And check in at my base. You need a ride or can ya keep up?" The being would offer its wings to him if needed, otherwise, it simply takes flight without and aims to keep an eye on Will.

(Sorry I'll have to update later today in 12ish hours. Some class stuff came up that I must resolve this morning.)

Nicole takes a breath and composes himself. The women is probably shut down due to fear. At any rate, the missing Efina is still at large so he'll need to find her. Nicole gives Leo a brief run down on what happened, telling him he got his fortune and a moment later they were assault or attacked or whatever seems to be the case. At the end, Nicole shows Leo the card "I'm sorry for losing her. This was left on her seat when I came to and I'm guessing it's where they took her or at least where they want us to meet them to exchange a deal." Nicole sighs and bows, saying his apologies to the father. "Shall we head out?"

Leo listens to Nicole’s story, nodding along to denote his understanding before taking a close look at the card Nicole had. Another address. Based on his conversation with Morte he doubts it’ll be as easy as a negotiation, but it’s still worth checking out Leo:”we should be ready for the worst. I find it hard to believe they’d go to all this trouble just to blackmail me.” That is to say the trouble of blowing up the parlor of someone unrelated to the target as opposed to merely killing them. Which means they likely wanted Efina, or someone like her, for some reason. Considering how long Morte suggested they were watching him, it’s likely they knew something about Efina. Slavers is the first guess for now Leo: “that said we may as well get moving. If you have any... Special talents I ought to be aware of use this time to fill me in. Just in case. After confirming with Nicole him and Leo would head for the address mentioned on the invitation Nicole had

Nicole nods in agreement, trying not to be strain on the daughterless father. Course, he assumed he was much stronger. Nicole made his way to the bar with Leo, sliding down the sports bag that was fasten on his shoulder. He opened is and pulled out a steel bat "I'm a base ball player of sorts, at least I use to play when I was in high school. But in terms of special abilities..." As if on cue, a large ring floated out of the bag and went to the side of Nicole "I have these things know as aides. This is my first and mostly for attack. It's called Alpah. Now..." Nicole starts to put his stuff away "How about yourself? Or are you going to say you only fight with your words?"

Leo closes his eyes briefly, depending on the limits of these rings they’d likely be useful as distractions even if a brawl doesn’t break out. Of course something loud like that often proves itself useful. The man puts his hands out to his sides away from his pockets Leo:”I suppose first I should mention I’m an informant, not a detective. We’re all used to taking care of ourselves on the road. Though how is up to personal preference.” in a flash Leo throws a knife through the hole in the center of the ring Alpah, leaving it completely unharmed, though it is difficult to tell where the other man was hiding the knife. Leo:”but my expertise isn’t really combat. I’m far better at disappearing whenever I need to.”

Scene One (Actors – Alt and Dahlia): The Cruel and Sweet Isaac’s lance of black ink launches at Emrys in a last-ditch effort to distract him, but rather then dodge the blow Emrys just takes it directly to his chest. With a new goal in mind he barely notices the fresh spurt of blood on his once clean shirt or the sparks of pain tracing up his side. While Alt probably feels the current pain of a newly embedded set of fangs into the skin of his left hand. After sinking his fangs in, Emrys immediately pulls them out in a hurried manner leaving behind burn marks should Alt not be fire resistant. Now standing directly in front of his prey, Emrys the man with a forceful, one-track mind simply lets the two kids he previously struck at flee. For now, his only concern lies with Alt. He says as such when he growls out, “Your ability would be a perfect replacement for the gem I just lost. Mind you I’m not really giving you a choice here.” Placing a warm hand on Alt’s shoulder he proceeds to punch Alt in the stomach. Hoping to knock him out with one well-placed brutal blow. At the same time … Dahlia and Isaac make their way out of the park and join the sheer number of people touring the city today. Crossing a particularly huge street the two notice all sorts of high-end stores around them displaying various seasonal fashions. Despite their odd matching they blend right in with the millions from all over the world and are soon swept in the natural pace of everyone else. Eventually, they make it to the front of an ice skating rink where the line stretches around the area and back. Before they have a chance to explore any further another strange encounter begins with someone bumping into Isaac. “Ooof sorry for hitting you.” The new person lands face first on the group but rather than get up and apologize she instead apologizes from her current position. As her gloved hands hold onto a fancy looking camera to prevent others from stepping on it and a camera stand lies broken next to her.

Scene Two (Actors – Leo and Nicole): Mages Flask Leo and Nicole arrive at their new destination feeling a little winded after having walked from the lower east side of the city to the upper west side. Standing in front of an aged, brown stone building they can already see the city lights coming to life around them as evening sets in. With no time to waste they promptly enter the establishment and soon after find a potential problem in their investigation/rescue attempt. Turns out the Mages Flask really is a family restaurant as indicated on the card. A fun, fancy, magic themed restaurant with all the ruckus of a normal playground. The innocent ring of child laughter fills the air of the elegant restaurant as parents in formal attire struggle to keep track of their little scamps. Rows upon rows of tables filled to the brim with groups made up of fours and fives occupy the entire floor space. As social young adults without families of their own line up at the bar beside the actual restaurant area. With so much movement occurring on the part of wandering children and waiters it is easy to lose track of any mischief that might be taking place. Other noticeable fixtures that can be spotted upon entering are the doors at the very back of the restaurant leading to the kitchen area, a door alongside the bar, and a flight of stairs secured by two guards wearing earpieces.

Scene Three (Actor – Shino): A Budding Friendship “Ms. Blade you could just admit that I have grown on you like mold or a deadly disease. No need to beat around the bush for me.” Will flashes Shino’s avatar a cute, boyish smile after his comment and adds, “Seeing as I don’t have wings or anything else fancy. I’ll have to take you up on that ride. Before we go anywhere though I have to tell ya since ya seem the kind to care.” “My former boss is the kind to chase those that double cross her and she is with this nasty group that can do worse. Not that I’m scared.”, Will laughs after telling Shino’s avatar this, but his eyes do wander around scanning the roof. From her current location the real Shino has been able to witness the explosion at the Psychics Den as well as the on foot pursuit of Leo and Nicole. While her avatar having been closer to the park watched as the people fled from the park and the slow clearing of the fog.

(Next update will be in 24 hours)

*Dahlia side steps as the new person falls on Isaac. She reaches for her knife but Isaac holds his hand up, stopping her. With a sigh, Dahlia instead pulls her roughly off Isaac allowing him to get up.* Isaac: Ugh. No harm done. You alright? Apologies about my friend. She isn't very friendly to strangers if they don't seem kind. No matter how accidental there actions may be. *Isaac sticks a hand out to her, offering to help her get off. Dahlia pouts slightly, fiddling with the handle of her knife.*

Alt would feel the burns on his hand, he'd feel the impact of the blow, and he'd feel his consciousness begin to fade. He'd curse his fragile body for not being able to simply brush such a strike off but knew such self-pity wasn't going to help him. "I-I...J-just..." He could barely speak and his hands were shaking as he moved his right hand into his bag and pulled out a dark coloured fluid in a bottle. He'd seem to try bringing it up to his mouth but his mind would be gone just before he could. He'd fall to the ground, the bottle still in hand, as he lost consciousness.

Nicole looks about the restaurant, scratching his head and sighing. With any luck Efina is just out and about with the other kids. Of course with his luck, she probably upstairs guarded in a room with several layers of security. At least, all he can hope for is that she is having a nice milkshake up there. He saw Leo take his seat and on his signal, Nicole walked over and sat next to him. It didn't seem like much to other people, just two friends on their night out probably trying to hit on the single mothers. Nicole would guess anyway. "You're thinking what I'm thinking about the upstairs? Looks important." Nicole says quietly and trying to see if he could find his wallet in his bag.

Scene One (Actor – Dahlia): Star Material The stranger accepts Isaac’s helpful hand and uses it to right herself. She then stands up swiping some dirt off her camera while fixing the bow on top of her head. “It’s fine I kind of got that from what I witnessed your friend do back at the park. Thanks for the assistance.” Now that the stranger is standing Dahlia and Isaac can see she is an older woman of darker skin and modest means. Her coat is nothing as fanciful as the people around them and frayed shoes hint at a life hitting the pavement. Yet, its her eyes that reveal her sensible nature the best. With a shine to them they show a youthful spirit as lines mark the skin beneath. “I was actually waiting to chat with the two of you all day. Oh uh before I forget …” The stranger poses with her camera releasing a quick flash. “The name is Hope and I’m a professional journalist. I look up all the latest scoops, so you don’t have to!”, Hope proceeds to hand Isaac a business card from her camera bad and asks, “So anyway might the two of you be aliens too? Like the people you previously fought.”

Scene Two (Actor – Alt): Captive Audience Before Alt can hit the ground, Emrys catches him with one arm and lifts him up as if he weighed nothing. Heaving Alt over his shoulder Emrys then carries him to a black vehicle parked at the side of the road while his injured assistant follows. With an annoyed grunt Emrys takes the driver wheel as his assistant passes out on the front passenger seat. After securing Alt with cuffs and a seatbelt of course. A short time later … Emrys carries the still unconscious Alt through a door alongside a building. Walking as if he owns the place he manages to carry Alt past a few dining tables with nary a glance from the entertained patrons. Entering the kitchen area at the very back and swinging yet another door leading to a set of stairs. At the base of the steps he finally lays Alt down next to tied up and cuffed Efina whom could possibly be stirring awake. Alt and Efina are left to lay in the center of an etched in circle with fanciful designs depicting all sorts of wondrous creatures. Around them is a room with deep darkness that is only lit by lanterns on the sides. A tinge of lavender seeps into the room and faint chanting can be heard in a few dark corners that remain unseen. Emrys returns up the stairs after having dropped off Alt, but leaves an anxious man behind to watch Alt and Efina in his place. He also issues the man an order before decidedly leaving. "Watch the prisoners until we can ready the rest of the ritual contents. Should they give you any trouble I suggest using those abilities of yours for once."

Scene Three (Actors – Leo and Nicole): Obligatory Bar Scene A bored bartender notices Leo and Nicole sitting at the edges of the bar and he moves toward them with a notepad out. “Sirs may I interest you in any drinks for the evening?” As they are asked this, Leo and Nicole notice a man wearing summer themed clothing enter through the door at the side of where they sit. On the man’s shoulder is a youth that looks to be asleep and should they keep watching him they will see him enter the kitchen doors at the back of the establishment. Almost ten minutes later the man once again exits the kitchen this time without the youth carried in and approaches the security guards at the base of the stairs. Flashing something too tiny for Leo and Nicole to see he is promptly waved in and allowed to climb up to the upstairs balcony floor. There he vanishes from sight for now, but there is no telling how long he will be there. The bartender waits on Leo and Nicole to make some sort of order.

*Isaac looks at Dahlia with a smirk when Hope mentions "Aliens". Dahlia glares at him.* Isaac: Aliens you say? Oh, don't you start. *Isaac chuckles.* Isaac: Heh. No, we're not aliens. The source of the abilities you saw are technologically based not naturally based. But those two? Could be. Though, how do you know about 'em Miss Hope Dope on a Pope Rope. Isaac: Stop that. Fine. Sorry. Isaac: Forgiven. But the question stands. If you truly believe these individuals are aliens, you must have some evidence, correct? Further more, and probably the more important question, who were those people?

Leo smiles at the bartender, nodding to him as he keeps an eye on the man with the summery clothing as they enter the kitchen area “Ah yes, about that.” Leo rummages around in his coat, as though looking for something specific. Though there’s a decent chance the youth he brought had either gotten drunk or passed out after a long night, checking the back is still the best lead they have “I look forward to it, but first I’ll need to check the.. Here we go!” Leo takes out an ID, one which carries his picture with the name “Archibald Ebonheart”, and identifies him as a health inspector. Though it’s faked it was based on the ID of a real inspector whose identity he.. Borrowed, a few towns back so it’d be difficult to tell the difference “Health inspector Ebonheart here to check on things. I’m afraid my friend Nicole here managed to lose his ID, but I’d appreciate it if you let us check things out.” though the upstairs was his first guess too whispering to his companion would seem suspicious, so it’s simply a matter of how well Nicole can ad lib Efina: In the back of the restaurant Efina would begin to stir, though she’s still a little out of it, the kid would begin to mutter Efi: hungry...

Scene One (Actor – Dahlia): It's a Conspiracy I Say! Hope chuckles at the little rhyme Dahlia makes out of her name as she digs into her camera bag for something. Searching for a couple of seconds she finds exactly what she is looking for. Pulling out two slightly aged photos and holding them between her fingers. Laying down her hand the photos fan out in a way that allows Dahlia and Isaac to see them. On one photo is the man the two of them fought earlier. He is seen sitting on a chair at a café opening a black box. An almost glowing orb can be seen at the edge of the box, but this time it’s a deep red. Unlike the orb currently in Dahlia’s possession. Emrys’ eyes seem to shine in the same way as the stone in the photo yet no one else in the café seems to notice. While the other photo presents a man dressed in a terrible black that seems to suck the life out of everything else in the picture. Around him the people walking by can be seen either shivering or blowing out cold puffs of air. Despite the photo being dated for summer of last year. The man stands by the doors of a rustic establishment and is caught mid bite of another orb. One that is pitch dark with a faint light blue at its core. Its glow matches a slight blue ring around the man’s eyes and it is halfway to his open mouth frozen by the photo. Hope answers in matter of fact way, “I have been following these strange people for a while. Not just the men. Rather everyone that is or has been part of their whole group. They caught my attention after asking me in a not so nice way to erase the rest of my pictures.” She looks left and right before leaning in to whisper, “The pictures that show them eating these orb things of their or tossing out icicles and fire. I don’t know much about them other than their possible hideout, but after seeing them do all that stuff in the flesh I can say one thing for certain …” “They must be aliens, or ghosts, or psychics!!!” Hope smiles at Dahlia and Isaac expectantly after giving her major theory.

Scene Two (Actor – Leo): The Overseer The bartender studies Leo’s falsified Id with as much scrutiny as he can muster, but simply being the one serving the drinks he can’t really figure what is being presented to him. Though the bartender is savvy enough to know that an official without an id certainly begets some strange occurrence. “Listen sir, I would like to make your job easier and just pass you through. But I’m just a worker here serving the drinks. I’ll call my supervisor over so she could check your id.” “Please wait here a moment.” The bartender momentarily leaves his station and comes back followed by a stern looking woman. On the vest of the woman’s uniform is a nametag with “Divina” written out in fine, gold lettering. The woman herself does not look like much wearing a typical server uniform and carrying an ice bucket with a bottle of champagne in one arm. Dull brown hair pulled back into a work approved ponytail and no finery like jewelry or rings on. However, it is the way she carries herself like a rock between the constant flow people in the place that makes her stand out. Her eyes despite being in a dull manner also hint at something more just by the way they seem to be hungrily studying Leo and Nicole. When she speaks it is almost in a calm monotone aligned to the rest of her outer nature. “Sirs I don’t believe we were due for a health inspection today. May I ask what suddenly brought the city board of inspectors here to our quaint establishment?”

Leo“I’d expect nothing less.” Leo grins as he waits for the bartender to get their manager, fortunately it didn’t take long, so Leo didn’t have to try explaining anything. Instead he goes straight into his happy-go-lucky routine and breathes a sigh of relief Leo:”Oh good, it hasn’t been taken yet. I wasn’t told all the details but apparently they’ve had some trouble with places ‘tidying up’ before an inspection.” Leo emphasizes the phrase “tidying up” as though it’s perfectly normal and he half expected them to know it Leo:”So they just passed down a new quota for ‘quality assurance’ or something like that. It’s supposed to be a secret but I can’t imagine it won’t be on the news soon.” Leo sighs and shakes his head, his tone clearly indicating a low opinion of the change, but protocol is protocol Leo:”Of course, we’re supposed to choose at random but we’ve never had a problem here and my wife speaks highly of the place so I imagine this won’t take long.” its a well-rehearsed faced intended to make people think he’s lazy, or even a bit stupid. Either of which naturally throws off suspicion

Scene One (Actors – Alt and Nicole): Overbearing Hospitality “Hmm yes yes I do believe I may have heard of this new form of inspection from a friend of mine on the force. It’s sad the things the city must to protect its citizens. You would think humans would look out for each other by now. But no! Instead some would like to continue selling spoiled food and poisoned drinks.” The dull manager Divina says all this with a passion that seems to well up out of nowhere as her closed fist bobs up and down. Her brown eyes seeming to spark with what some would call a righteous fury. “Your wife comes to the right place when she dines here. At the Mages Flask we pride ourselves on quality food and service since we care for our customers. Unlike some charlatans that dare sell street food in cafes.” She inspects Leo’s id one more time before giving him a nod of affirmation and relays an approving grin to Nicole as well. Without any hesitation she then grabs Nicole’s hand and raises it to flag down a bartender. “Server a few drinks for these inspectors on the house. Give them some of your finest whiskey and rum. I insist they have a great time here before checking our immaculate coffers!” Within seconds Leo finds himself with two glasses and two are given to Nicole. Both glasses reek of luxury and are filled with an amber liquid. Divina winks at Leo and releases Nicole’s hand so he can take a sip “Sirs consider these to be on me and I insist to accompany the two of you for the inspection. My treat.”

Scene Two (Actors – Efina and Alt): In a Bind The anxious man keeping an eye on things, happens to notice the slight stirrings of Efina. Instead of doing anything he simply takes a swig of rum to calm his nerves and leans back on his seat. He expects nothing from the two youths in the circle and thus does nothing until necessary. While Alt carefully coming back to the world of the living tests his wrists and feet finding them bound by metallic police cuffs. His mouth covered by multiple layers of duct tape to prevent him from making any noise. He can see his bag right across from him against the wall, yet the more noticeable are the stirrings of Efina who is lying right next to him.

*Dahlia and Isaac look at each other and then back to Hope.* So... your a conspiracy nut Isaac: Dahlia. Be nice. *Isaac folds his arms.* Isaac: So, they eat the orbs? *Dahlia takes her orb out of her jacket pocket and looks at it.* These things? But they don't look tasty? Isaac: Maybe it's an acquired taste. Shut up! *Isaac chuckles at his partners reaction.* Isaac: Regardless, they wanted this "Miss Fortune"'s orb for whatever reason. It didn't just seem like that guy wanted a snack. It must be more important than we know.

wow Alt sure is getting around now Scene one - Leo Leo:“Wouldn’t have it any other way.” Leo keeps up his friendly smile and takes a decent sized swing of the first glass, it would be remiss to get drunk when he needs to focus, but failing to drink would tip off the persona. He gives Nicole a focused glance before setting the mug down Leo:“I must say I’ve been looking forward to this.” Scene two - Efi Efi notices the other boy with her trying to make some kind of move. She tries to talk again only for a muffled sound to come out. The girl’s stomachs growls as she starts fidgeting around, obviously trying to say something

We need more salt

(Sorry I must announce a delayed post time today on account of snow. Basically it snowed and now i'm tasked with shoveling it so heck. Will update in 12 hours.)

Nicole was mostly silently due to not wanting mess up Leo's plan, seeing as how he could mess up the persona Leo was trying to make for them. The second reason of course was that Nicole was struck blind by the beauty of Divina the manger. Nicole adjust himself and looked towards the glasses he was given. Nicole downed a drink and finally spoke up "Interesting taste... your name is Divina? I'm Nicole." He said with grin, glancing back at Leo and twirled the cup he had. Sorry it's been a while. Also, hope it goes well with your task. see you when you complete your task

Scene One (Actor – Dahlia): On the Trail Displeased with Dahlia’s comment, Hope takes a moment to correct her. “I am not some crazy conspiracy theorist. Just a journalist with a taste for stories out of the ordinary.” She fixes her jacket after setting this clear line proceeding to let it go fully once Dahlia pulls out the orb. Hope’s eyes widen in awe at the orb before her. In a matter of seconds, she could be seen attempting to drag Dahlia with her as her awe-struck gaze fills with a silent sense of determination. “You two should have told me you had this sooner! C’moooon if we hurry now maybe we can use that to finally catch the aliens!” Hope exuberantly gazes at Isaac while pulling Dahlia forward to indicate that she wants to be followed. “My latest intel gave me exactly where they could be holed up and we could help each other out.”

Scene Two (Actor – Alt and Efi): Sneak Tactics Efi’s growling stomach and fidgeting about alerts Alt to her recent return to wakefulness. While being subtle enough to not attract the anxious man’s attention onto the two of them for now. Which is lucky given that Alt is about hallway across the room clearly attempting to crawl to his bag. Being tied up Alt can’t make any fast movements, but his careful crawling is bringing him closer to his personal possession. Though Efi’s attempts to speak could serve to be a hindrance since Alt can hear her mumbles from where he is. Which can mean the anxious man could possibly hear it too if he cares enough to pay attention to the prisoners.

Scene Three (Actors – Leo and Nicole): On the House Divina with her serious personality seems to take Leo at his word. With a wave of her hand Leo and Nicole have a few more glasses lined up for them filled with various types of liquors. Some of the glasses even have little umbrellas on them or the telltale specks of salt given to those with adventurous taste. The bartender gives the two of them a friendly wink before returning to serve the rest of his patrons lined up against the counter. After the service, Divina pushes a particularly tall glass to Leo and intones, “Inspector I insist that you and your colleague enjoy then. Consider this on the house for today since you will be doing us a great service soon.” She drops a tiny pink umbrella in the drink she offers to Leo and then meet Nicole’s grin with one of her own. One that doesn’t quite reach her eyes as befitting her outwardly bland nature. “A pleasure to meet you Inspector Nicole. You seem every bit the classy gentleman that your partner is.”, Having read Nicole’s reaction, Divina leans in closer allowing him and only him a closer look at her facial features. “I hope that what I offer you today fits the rich palette you must have sir.” These words hit Nicole with a sensation of closeness to them.

(Okay so update schedule did not go as planned due to a snow day and the fact that my semester starts tomorrow. Don't worry everyone I plan to finish this and that is exactly what I will do :). From now on though I will be updating every 24 hours due to the set up of my own class schedule. In between updates I will still take questions and interaction between participants is fine. As long as no one finalizes major events or actions on their own i'm perfectly okay with between character dialogue. Thank you all again for your patience and understanding.)

This situation right now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mQJI6zlExs Eh? *Dahlia is late to react as she's suddenly grabbed and dragged off.* Wait? Wait! No no. No no no. Isaac. Isaac help. Isaac, I'm beng kidnapped. Help me you blind bastard! Isaac: No, I think I'll leave you two to it. You're not serious are you?! *Isaac waves.* ISAAC!!!! Isaac: Fine. Fine. Miss Hope, please relinquish my companion. I believe you're getting ahead of yourself. Would you mind explaining your plan to us before dragging us off to where ever you wish to drag us off to?

Scene 3. Leo Leo: “not sure if I can make it through all this.” Leo chuckles softly, setting his drink down for a moment. At least they have the restaurant’s hospitality, which is why he originally made the ID, but for now Leo needs to get this back on track. He begins to take another drink before setting it down with a long pause and a sigh Leo: “Right, right. Oughtn’t get ahead of myself. I’ll need to make a quick sweep of the place to make sure there aren’t any violations before I lose myself here. Care to escort me?” Leo raises an eyebrow at Divina, a tinge of exhaustion and longing in his voice as mostly befits his easygoing facade. Scene 2. Efi The girl isn’t sure what the guy next to her is doing, as much as they’re trying, but she is sure that she’s not quite getting noticed. Figuring it’s probably no use the girl leans back against the wall and remains quiet for now

Nicole chuckles softly, getting a good look at Divina factual features, her bland personality and figure seems to make Nicole more entrance by her. Or maybe it was the drinks, however Nicole did find himself reddening on his face "You're already fitting my palette, Ma'am." Nicole says in a low voice, perhaps only letting her hear. "But I'll be more than happy to see more that you're offering" With that, Nicole took another glass and downed it. Looking at Leo and his mountain of drinks "Need some help there partner?"

Scene One (Actor – Dahlia): Ready, Set, Go! Hope looks to Isaac with confusion written on her face and her hands swing out in open gesture. She lets go of Dahlia and professes, “I thought youths like you would be all gung ho and action oriented. The kinds to act first and ask questions later! All these questions of yours could cost us the story of a decade!” Raising a hand to her temple she then looks pointedly at Dahlia and Isaac. “My plan is to sneak into enemy territory and steal some alien secrets. Using that fine gem of yours in case things go south for us. The two of you are in for some of this action, right?”

Scene Two (Actors – Leo and Nicole): Tease the Lead The tips of Divina’s ears turn a faint shade of red as she catches Nicole’s whisperings she quickly fixes herself up ramrod straight to stay nonchalant. Coughing to derail any further flirtations she focuses on the soberest out of the two, Leo. Divina makes sure to press one more full glass into his hand as she hands off her notepad to the nearest server. She then winks at Leo and Nicole, asserting, “Take a drink or two for the road sirs. This place may not look like much, but we have plenty of places to see for your inspection. Your friend there sounds like he may want to take more than two.” With a sharp noise that could be mistaken for a laugh, Divina heads for the stairs expecting both inspectors to follow her.

Scene Three (Actors – Alt and Efina): Golden Opportunity Alt after putting forth some valiant effort finally makes it within grasping distance from his bag and not a moment too soon. He and Efina can hear the muffled voices of an argument taking place at the top of the stairs. It goes on for some time until a loud bang can be heard from the door above. This sudden bang attracts the attention of the anxious man and curious this man quickly climbs up the stairs to check what is going on. From his position Alt can’t see the man leave, but Efina certainly does. She can tell that there is currently no one watching them as long as the anxious man remains at the top of the stairs.

Scene 2: Leo Well this was going to take a while. Resigned to his fate, Leo takes a single glass, sipping along with it as he heads after Divina towards the upstairs, tugging on Nicole's arm to keep him following along Leo: Alright, alright, just a quick sweep should be fine. Sooner we can get this over with the better. That means you too. though Leo's an expert at keeping his cool he can't help but let a tinge of his annoyance through, fortunately its not too far off his persona here, but especially considering his.. Companion's condition things could easily go south Scene 3: Efina Efi looks up at the sudden loud noise, she catches sight of their guard or something leaving, and takes the chance to begin struggling again. She doesn't make it very far, but she does look over to Alt and begins nodding. Whatever he's doing it has to be better than sitting here

But your a conspira- *Isaac gives Dahlia a disaproving glance.* I mean reporter. Isaac: A non-combatant. A civilian. You can't sneak into a place like that and take what is probably some of their most well defended stuff. Ah ah. Not possible. Isaac: And we never said we were gonna help. We got friends to pick up, nerds to annoy and food to eat. *Dahlia hums.* Buuuut. Out of curiosity. Isaac: Oh god damnit. If we were to put that on hold, what would be in it for us? Y'know. Money. Food. Death rays. I'll take anything really. Isaac: No death rays. Pay her in Ice cream. Depending on the flavour, she may even lay down her life for you. Can you blame though? Ice cream is sooo good.

Ooc: i wanna join in but by the time i finish reading, i'll have another hour's worth of reading in posts

Scene One (Actors – Leo and Nicole): A Quaint Room Dahlia leads Leo and Nicole up an elegant set of stairs and takes a turn to the left leading the two down an oddly spacious hallway. Unlike the stairs the hallway carries an antique feel with browned wallpaper and motley wood. No one else is noticeably in the immediate vicinity with only the steps of Divina, Leo, and Nicole echoing off the walls. After a bit of walking, Divina stops in front of a door that no longer is within view of the first floor and without knocking she pushes it open. Revealing a tiny barren room with little furniture or decoration save for a few packed suitcases in the farthest corner. The suitcases themselves a master class in luxury being made of faux fur and golden metallic lining. Divina steps in the room and hums, “Strange I did not expect anything to be here. There hasn’t been a renter in a while and no one notified me of anyone moving in.” Raising an eyebrow, she proceeds to make her way over to a semi-open closet attached to the wall and flings it open with a level of abandon. Audibly gasping she looks over to Leo and Nicole with sheer confusion written on her face. She backs away from the closet slowly before saying much of anything. “Sorry inspectors I was not expecting anything like this. Please do not let it reflect badly on this place. I promise I have no idea as to why this is here.” Inside the closet is a white bridal dress stained in smears of red and a torn-up veil. The rest of the outfit such as the shoes or possible decorations are missing only leaving behind space in the dust to indicate their former presence.

Scene Two (Actor – Dahlia): Ice Cream Desperation “How dare the two of you underestimate the free press!” Practically yelling this in dismay, Hope immediately pouts at the break in her wonderful dynamic. She was on a roll with her plan for taking on an alien syndicate and now her plan was in shambles. Some of the issues brought up by Dahlia and Isaac were valid …. But damn if Hope were to admit it with the energy she had going. With a huff and both her arms folded in front she half listens to Dahlia’s inquiries on payment. Impatiently looking in the direction of her desired target until Dahlia finishes. Hope replies with nary a thought. “Yes Yes I’ll get the two of you all the money, ice cream, and death rays you want. Lets just go before it’s too late!” Hope gives a pleading tug at Dahlia’s arm having assumed by now that she is the leader of this two-person party. “With you two watching my back I don’t think the aliens will stand a chance against the three of us.”

Scene Three (Actors – Alt and Efina): Proactive Hostages Alt using his head in the literal sense manages to knock over his bag. The bag falls forward with a small thud and shakes loose a book within it revealing the book to Alt. “For the last time we don’t need another child for the ritual! We are already risking way too much just having two here and the chick won’t be much of a distraction for much longer!” The voices above reach a pitched tone and a wail can be heard after the sudden shouts. “Christ shut the kid up!” As the people above remain embattled, Efina with her struggling motions soon slips a single cuff off her right wrist. Her right wrist now has an angry red ring from the friction between cuff and skin, but having it freed should beat having both hands tied.

(Yeah i'm sorry Wilobrine, but this is too far along for new joiners. You could possibly join in the next thread I plan to make after this one.)

Alrighty then. Let's get this over with. Isaac: This is a bad idea Not like simple bad ideas have stopped us from doing stuff before. Come on. *Isaac sighs.* Isaac: I'll text Mar. Nice. Alright, CT. We're in. Takes us to their leader.

Scene 1 - Leo Leo closes his eyes, half expecting a boring series of side-businesses or kids parties, nothing he was looking for anyways. Though he is a little surprised at how quiet it is. It isn't until Divina expresses her surprise that he bothers paying much attention to the place, overly fancy, not quite what he was expecting to be attached to a family restaurant. Approaching the closet, he finds the torn up, bloodied veil. Thinking back to his conversation with Morte, there's a chance this is related to the dead Jane Doe he found just this morning, which means its possible the murderer is squatting here.... However, at this point he doesn't really care about it much anymore, his first priority is to find Efina, safe and sound. If he can avoid the killer while doing so all the better. So the man takes a deep breath, calming his nerves as his coat blows around a little. Leo tugs the collar up, covering his mouth for a moment before he speaks Leo: "This sort of thing isn't my department. I'm going to suggest you get a security system installed, or call the police." Leo closes his eyes again, letting his long coat back down, its hem dragging against the floor as he takes a few steps back Leo: "I think we should finish the business end of this back around the kitchen area, as that is where the food is prepared and all, its kind of my first priority." Scene 3 - Efina Though her hand is chafed, Efina is relieved that she is finally able to break it free, it probably wasn't meant for someone her size. The girl immediately uses her free hand to peel the duct tape off of her mouth and make it easier to breath, though the process ends up being quite painful Efi: "Ow.... Such a jerk. Won't even give me candy..." though she finds that, bound as she is, the girl still isn't able to move so well, at least she can breathe a bit more freely. She initially tries to untie the rope, but she's nowhere near good enough to do that, even if she could find it. Next the girl simply tries chewing on the rope, again to no real avail, before finally spitting out a small torf of flame on it

Scene One (Actor – Dahlia): Search and Maybe Find Hope chuckles at Dahlia’s statement and adds, “Oh I’ll do better than that and just take you to their mothership.” A short cab ride later … Hope shakes the interior pockets of her coat and sighs. “Looks like I won’t be paying for anymore rides anytime soon …” Choosing not to wallow in her poor fiscal affairs, Hope turns around and marches onward to the eating establishment in front of them. Held by Hope’s surprising grip Dahlia and Isaac are forcibly dragged through the doors of Mages Flask. Once in the three can immediately tell that the place is well above their apparent price range and it seems that everyone else can tell too. The waiters don’t even look at Dahlia and Isaac while Hope is given the dirty eye for her unkempt visage. The customers take the hint and give the three a wide berth of space not wanting anything to do with them. This provides Dahlia and Isaac a free view of the security guards blocking the stairs and the doors to the side of the bar as well as the door leading to the kitchen. In between them and all these points of interest is a sea of tables and an army’s worth of servers roaming the floor. Hope looking a bit lost tries to spot any of the people from her photographs but is unable to with so many people around. She murmurs to Dahlia and Isaac, “What should we do next guys. I don’t see the aliens yet.”

Scene Two (Actors – Alt and Efina): Nothing is Ever that Simple The tiny flame spat out by Efina easily consume the ropes holding her legs together, but now comes the issue of putting them out. Luckily for her the flame slowly peters out as the second pass and she is left uninjured. With both legs and a hand freed Efina is more capable than before just in time to handle the two sets of footsteps coming down the stairs. One of the footsteps is the clear heavy falls of a grown adult while the other are the soft patters of a child. Sobs can be heard coming nearer and nearer too as the light from above dims with the slight closing of the door. Alt tries his best to cut his bindings with his newly created metallic tool and his best pays off too. The metal manages to slice apart the cuffs on Alt, but the heat exerted by it does heat up the metal. Causing Alt to feel some pain around his wrists right before the cuffs fall completely off. Finally, the footsteps stop at the base of the stairs and Alt as well as Efina are met with the anxious eyes of their initial watchman. At the watchman’s side is a young child cuffed and sniveling. The two block the only path of escape for Efina and Alt.

Scene Three (Actors – Leo and Nicole): The Man with a Rude Manner “R-right.”, Divina stutters out before briskly leading Leo and Nicole back to the top of the stairs. She doesn’t even bother showing them the rest of the top floor having seen enough for herself and guides down without looking back. As they enter through the doors of the kitchen, Divina is suddenly pushed back by a man dressed in swim trunks and a swim shirt. The man appears to have been in a hurry but upon noticing the presence of Leo and Nicole he stops and studies them. His gaze almost picks them apart like insects beneath his feet and his gaze stays a moment too long their faces. He ignores Divina who is still on the floor and maneuvers around to face Leo and Nicole. “What might two scruffy individuals like you be doing in a nice place like this.” Divina tries to explain, “Emrys they …” The man raises a hand and Divina immediately rasps feeling a constricting sensation in her throat. “You know I don’t talk to the help. Now once again from the top, who are the two standing in front of me?”

Isaac: That you know of. Hmm? Isaac: She doesn't see any empowered individuals that she knows of. Ah. That's a point. There could be more than Dad and the suit. So then. What do you see? Isaac: Nothing important as of yet. Need to get my eyes in position first. Though from a quick glance. The guards. Thought as much. Though I doubt they're gonna move. Unless... Isaac: Maybe, but not right now. We need information first. Information, huh? Well, in a place like this, the best place tp get information would be... *Dahlia and Isaac look at each other with a smirk and then start walking and attempt to grab a waiter and , If successful, drag them into the nearest empty side room. Dahlia motions for Hope to follow them.* CT. Get your questions ready.

Nicole eyes the man then ignores him, for the time being anyway. He crouches down to the fallen women. He offers a hand to Divina. "Hey, you alright there?" Nicole said to Divina. Whether or not she takes his hand, Nicole turns his attention to the man. Nicole takes a breath. getting angry would certainly has the chance to break down their facade so he takes a glance to Leo, the ace actor

Scene 2 Efina Efi: "Eh?" The girl's eyes fly open when the rope catches on fire, she hadn't really thought it through all the way, and while the fire was still small, it was rather hot. Panicked, the girl rolls around on the ground. Fortunately the fire manages to eat through the rope, leaving her pretty much entirely untied, with only a single cuffed hand she'd have no problem moving around at least. The girl looks around, and up the stairs again, rubbing her still-chaffed hand Efi: "What's with the dark room? Are you slavers?" Scene 3 Leo Leo keeps his cool and confronts the tall, summery man, unlike the friendly composure he gave to their hostess Divina, he gives the other man a steely glare to match his cold, businesslike demeanor Leo: "Health inspector Ebonheart here for a surprise inspection. You probably haven't heard about it, seeing as its supposed to be a surprise and all. My companion Nicole and I are simply needing to look around back here to make sure there aren't any major violations. It shouldn't take us long, sir."

Scene One (Actor – Dahlia): A Closeted Meeting Hope follows Dahlia and Isaac with a puzzled expression until they grab an older waiter lounging by the bar and drag him past a door located alongside his resting place. Past the door Dahlia and Isaac find themselves in a dark, empty alleyway with only one exit facing the street. The alleyway itself stinks with the presence of a few heavy-duty trash cans closing in the space offered by it. Hope makes a face at the agonizing smell and almost immediately starts to freak out. “You guys I think this counts as kidnapping …” “Which you know is highly illegal and could get us into some serious trouble!”, she yells. Covering her nose to help fight the nausea she suffers from. The waiter backed against a brick wall and covering his nose as well does not seem to be in an ideal condition either. He stammers out, “W…w-hat do you people want from me?”

Scene Two (Actors – Leo and Nicole): Rats or Lions Divina side eyes the man beside her and given no hint to the negative, she gratefully accepts Nicole’s hand and uses it to raise herself up again. Still recovering from the sensation, she experienced earlier Divina is unable to give a direct response. So, she instead bows to show her gratitude before returning to her once stoic posture. While the man glares at Leo and Nicole and smirks at them revealing an elongated fang at his lip. “The two of you health inspectors …”, the man spits out the last two words, “are free to look in the kitchens. It will probably be a waste of time though since there is nothing to see.” The man moves to the side of the kitchen door but maintains his glare as if daring Leo and Nicole to enter. Divina watches this entire interaction with a bland expression as her hands nervously play with the hem of her uniform.

Scene Three (Actors – Alt and Efina): Surprise Strike Alt’s ball easily hits the center of the anxious man’s stomach sending the man back against the damp wall of the basement. The man hits the wall hard and groans a little as he slides down against it almost curling into himself. A few specks of blood even appear at the edges of his lips from his own anxiety having caused him to bite his tongue too hard on impact. Laid out like a dropped doll the man doesn’t seem like one capable of more resistance. The man barely notices Efina’s question and mumbles, “Why couldn’t I get some nice children to deal with this time? Such a pain …” He quiets after gazing up at Alt with clear annoyance and an undercurrent of fear. The child realizing her sudden freedom runs to Alt side and grabs onto his leg. Seeing him as her only source of safety she seems to be at his side to stay for now.

(Sorry for the late update everyone things got pretty crazy last night and I didn't have the time needed to type anything out. TGIF was taken a bit too suddenly for me so I didn't have the ability to warn either. Thank you once again for your patience.)

Isaac: Information You work in this place. We need shit from you. Isaac: And if you don't, she'll stab you. I will. I have a knife. Isaac: So we're waiting. According to the person behind us, this is a hangout for super individuals, one of them goes by the name "Emrys" and has a timid friend who wears suit. They like these for some reason. *Dahlia holds up her orb between two of her fingers.* Isaac: Exactly. So, if you would kindly tell us what you know, we'll let you get back to work. Yep. Yo, CT. If you want to ask anything as well, go ahead.

(Next update will be in 24 hours on account of a missed train :/.)

Scene two - this is totally a trap isn't it? Leo Leo grins and politely bows to the strange, summery, fanged man before moving on to the kitchen Leo: Thank you for your understanding, sir Scene 3 - Efi Efina flinches back as the poor, poor man is brutalized by the iron ball. She's a little concerned about him, but since he might be evil she probably shouldn't worry too much. Instead she repeats her question Efi- are you slavers? Papa Leo told me about them but I haven't met one before.

Scene One (Actor – Dahlia): A Lame Apprenticeship “Okay! I’ll talk just please no stabby … umm kids.” The waiter’s eyes are fixed on the group of misfits in front of him and he does fear what they could possibly do to him. Yet there is a silly element to this situation that leaves the waiter feeling awkward in the position he is in. He almost prays that no one comes through the alleyway lest he die of embarrassment at having been held up by two kids and their scruffy guardian. “First of all, we are mages not superheroes or whatever other nonsense you three came up with.” Hope audibly sighs and looks disappointed at the prospect of no aliens, but instead some weirdos with magic. The waiter simply raises an eyebrow at her not understanding the underwhelming response to his first claim. “Okay then you three are pretty strange yourselves … Anyway!”, the waiter coughs before continuing, “that orb you got there between your fingers.” The waiter points at it and prattles on. “That thing is made from the life force of an innocent child or fellow mage. Judging by its shine I would say it was another mage like the rest of us. So yeah pretty rare since not everyone can get away with the murder required for it.” Hope with an increasingly grim expression begins, “So you people are …” Before she can finish the waiter interrupts her and flaps about his hands in frantic motion. “Not me! I’m some poor mage on an internship here to learn the old ways.”, he visibly air quotes on old ways with clear annoyance, “Its Emrys the jerk boss that doesn’t pay me who is into this blood sacrifice business.” “If you lot have any complaints just beat them into him!” For a student on an internship the waiter certainly looks all too pleased at the suggestion of beating up his boss and teacher. Seems interning at some mage restaurant place taught him much about labor and frustration.

Scene Two (Actors – Alt and Efina): The Drift The anxious man momentarily considers his options and leans toward a difficult disposition. Yet the flinching of the little girl in front of him catches his fancy. It’s been a while since he really got to mess with any of the captives before a ritual. Which was a shame since he always considered himself a man of the people when it convenienced him. Rolling his eyes close to the back of his head and shifting his face to a semi-dazed expression the anxious man answers with a slurred tongue. “H-h-haaaaaa! Weeeeee art better than yeeer typical kidnnnaping. We took ya’lll cuz ya’ll so specialllll capsih. Heards thaaaaat kidddos like magik anyway.”

Scene Three (Actors – Leo and Nicole): Forceful Hospitality Entering the kitchen, the first thing that really stands out to Leo and Nicole are the rows and rows of kitchen appliances accompanied by entire parties of white garbed workers. The white is almost blinding against the brilliant lights of the kitchen and the heat within the room can make anyone feel a bit under the weather. Plenty of smells waft through the air producing a sort of sensory overload for those not used to it while people pass through different areas of the room every second. Closing the door behind him, Emrys practically pushes Leo and Nicole into the chaos. Divina watches with concern but follows behind them with barely a word and keeps her head low as to not accidentally be hit by someone’s moving elbow. “So inspectors is the kitchen environment pleasing to your little investigation. Are the smells tantalizing enough for refined men such as yourselves?” Emrys smirks at Leo and continues to propel the two forward with an almost uncanny show of strength until they reach the very back of the kitchen. If Leo and Nicole remain unaffected by what they just passed they will immediately notice an old wooden staircase in front of them. The door leading to the downward staircase is open wide as if expecting guests and nothing can be seen from the top step. The staircase stands in sharp contrast to the vibrant kitchen emitting an ominous appearance to any onlooker. Divina’s face twists painfully with the basement ahead as her boss rings his hands and chips in with a pleasant tone. “Wow inspectors look at how fast this inspection went. Guess the only thing left here is our patented creepy basement area but I’m sure this is of no concern to the two of you. If you finish now I’m willing to buy you a full course meal. My treat fellas.”

This thing is made of dead people? *Dahlia looks at the orb.* Neat. Isaac: I'm suprised that you actually gave everything up so easily. Usually takes a bit of... convincing. I still wanna stab him. Isaac: Bad Dahlia. No stabbing. *Dahlia makes a disapointed humming sound.* Fiiiine. Isaac: So is Emrys here right now?

With his mouth finally free of the tape Alt would once again be able to speak and wouldn't hesitate to begin correcting the man's statements. "Special? What's that supposed to mean? I don't believe myself to be anything all that special, aside from some practical skill and talent. As for your magic, I'm fine without it. I'm not one to put too much faith into pure magic so it kinda ruins the fun for me." Alt would look around, seeing the child cling to his leg and the girl from earlier. He'd take the bottle from before and open it up. He'd spill a droplet of the substance on each of his hands carefully. The burns on his hands seem to slowly heal more and more but he also seems to be discomforted by whatever was speeding his recovery. "This stuff is much more pleasant to drink..." The ball from earlier seemed to lose any spark of life it once had. Slowly it began crumbling apart before dissolving into sand.

Scene One (Actor – Dahlia): Too Little Too Late The waiter looks to Dahlia and sighs upon hearing her question. “If you have no clue where he is then it’s already too late. The boss is a planner and once he satisfies the big guy upstairs he vanishes.” Hope retorts, “Hey instead of being so grim can’t you give us anything we can use.” The waiter thinks for a second and reaching into his breast pocket he pulls out a postcard. On the postcard is a depiction of a bustling valley town with a photographic train marching along the horizon. “Listen I’m only being so helpful since I’m done with this mage stuff. This experience today was more than enough to push me past my limit for this nonsense. Now if you want the man behind it you will have to travel west. He is as good as gone now.” The waiter tosses off his apron and flings it to the nearest garbage can. He then walks down the alley onto the main street with barely a glance given behind him. Magic isn’t for everyone these days.

Scene Two (Actors – Alt and Efina): Extended Vacation A ray of light flashes across the face of the anxious man and he grins at Alt and Efina with feverish energy. “The two of you are beyond special and you really have no choice in the matter. It’s a shame but the place we are going will help you see things my way. Soon your gift wouldn’t waste away in meaningless things.” The anxious man slowly stands up and bows. “My name is Yuen by the way. Remember it since we will be spending a bit of time together.” Yuen cracks his neck to the side and the child clinging to Alt’s leg bursts into a brilliant, all encompassing light that eats at Alt and Efi. As the light eats at him Alt and Efi lack any feeling of pain, warmth, or any other condition associated with such an event. Blinded by the light they temporarily lose sense of their surroundings and when they can finally see again … They find themselves on a rustic train heading through a mountain pass. The car is lively, but the rest of the passengers are tough to make out. While Yuen sits across from them and stares out at the looming mountain vista.

Scene Three (Actors – Leo and Nicole): The Curtains Fall The stairs in front of Leo and Nicole are suddenly engulfed in light that passes within a few minutes. It doesn’t look like anything happened but the laughter of Emrys indicates otherwise. Meanwhile, Divina gazes at the stairs with a certain sadness that is rather nostalgic. “Yet another bad end …”

Act One Fin~ To be continued in Act Two ... (Hi I hope this thread proved to be a fun time for everyone and not just myself. I'm sorry if this seems sudden, but I always planned to split the entire story up into parts. Events for this thread just reached one of the possible conclusions and I didn't want to drag it along any longer. Especially not when I could do a better job with a new thread and different set up. Once again thanks to everyone that participated, it was fun! I don't know when i'm putting up the next thread so be on the lookout if you remain interested. What I can say though is that the next thread will not be posted in two weeks or less.) Constructing mysteries is hard T-T

(This thread was a lot of fun. I'll be waiting for earnest for the next part whenever you have time to do it.)

This thread and idea was amazing, I'll be genuinely surprised if you can make something better. But I know you can, y'know. Also sorry for not updating every post, that's my bad. Good luck and good fortune!