015

[7/28/2014 9:31:44 PM] Canto: On the last episode, you guys went back to the Old North Church and met with the team that the Council had sent there. You rummaged around the priest's office, eventually finding a journal and a strange mirror. The Tear in the steeple was the source of a Siren's Song effect, drawing people to it, that Ella managed to disrupt with her powers. You then got everyone out of there and headed back to the Chapterhouse. The Council is sending more people there and will be more conscientious about rotating people out so everyone doesn't wind up hypnotized at the same time, or at all.

[7/28/2014 9:35:35 PM] Canto: It's the next day when you all get called to the Chapterhouse. Maybe around nine o'clock in the morning.

[7/28/2014 9:37:22 PM] Josie: Josie turns up, smiling a bit, wearing a blue suit with a white flower in her hair.

[7/28/2014 9:38:14 PM | Edited 9:38:31 PM] Ella: Ella is there, wearing an outfit that looks comfy enough to be pyjamas.

[7/28/2014 9:38:46 PM] Rafe: Rafe looks charming as usual in a nice suit and a mega-smile.

[7/28/2014 9:42:38 PM] Rafe: Good morning, ladies. The sun shines brighter when you're around.

[7/28/2014 9:43:31 PM] Canto: Theo is also there, having also been called in.

[7/28/2014 9:44:17 PM] Ella: Ella looks at Rafe for a bit, then rubs her eyes tiredly and mumbles something about needly lil' teeth. And lemon tarts.

[7/28/2014 9:44:36 PM | Edited 9:44:49 PM] Canto: Theo:  Impossible. Also potentially catastrophic if possible.

[7/28/2014 9:45:44 PM] Rafe: Rafe walks up to Theo and holds his hand out. "Rafe Windsor. We didn't really meet last time."

[7/28/2014 9:46:10 PM] Canto: Theo shakes his hand. "Doctor Prometheus Crafter.  A pleasure."

[7/28/2014 9:46:40 PM] Rafe: Rafe smiles. "I've heard much about you from Dr. Black."

[7/28/2014 9:46:55 PM] Josie: All true, too.

[7/28/2014 9:47:21 PM] Canto: Theo:  I hope it was mostly good stuff.

[7/28/2014 9:47:51 PM] Rafe: Mostly just about the things the two of you have made together.

[7/28/2014 9:48:09 PM] Canto: Theo nods. "She's pretty good at the workbench."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:48:43 PM] Rafe: I doubt there's much she's not good at.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:48:48 PM] Rafe: Rafe smiles at Josie.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:48:58 PM] Josie: You're trying to butter me up! It's working.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:49:04 PM] Rafe: Nonsense!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:49:53 PM] Josie: Well, I didn't say you should stop.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:49:58 PM] Rafe: Rafe laughs.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:50:22 PM] Canto: Caspar meets you guys in front of Fortunada's office. "We're using Fortunada's office while he's sleeping.  Come on in."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:50:57 PM] Josie: Josie nods, and heads in.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:51:31 PM] Rafe: Rafe allows the ladies to go first then follows.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:51:36 PM] Ella: Ella shuffles in, looking a bit less recently-awoken.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:52:55 PM] Josie: Josie follows Ella.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:54:12 PM] Canto: You go into Fortunada's office. Hughes is sitting on one of the couches, standing as you guys file in. He crosses over and smiles to you all, then plants a kiss on Josie's cheek. "Welcome, welcome, good to see you.  Mr. Fortunada allowed me the use of his office while he's off."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:54:47 PM] Josie: Josie smiles.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:54:59 PM] Josie: Josie nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:56:35 PM] Ella: Seems so.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:57:27 PM] Canto: Howard:  So. I read about what happened to you at the church. Sounds rather harrowing. Are you all right?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:57:39 PM] Josie: I think so.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:58:39 PM] Ella: I'll never think of opera the same way again, but otherwise, yeh.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:59:22 PM] Josie: Opera?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 9:59:49 PM] Ella: Or any other sort of vocal music, really.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:00:15 PM] Josie: Oh. ... I think it'll be jazz for all of us. Instrumental. For a while.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:00:28 PM] Rafe: I quite liked it, personally.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:00:43 PM] Josie: The point was that we liked it, that was the whole problem.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:00:47 PM] Ella: And that's why it was so dangerous.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:00:59 PM] Rafe: Ah but the danger is just part of the allure.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:01:28 PM] Canto: Howard:  Well. Fortunada's people have the church under much more careful observation now, in any case. I read that you found a couple of items belonging to the priest.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:01:57 PM] Ella: Yeh. A mirror and a journal.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:02:14 PM] Ella: The journal is in german.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:06:13 PM] Josie: Josie nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:06:30 PM] Josie: It has a lovely picture of Ultima Thule in it, and a prayer.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:07:04 PM] Rafe: Ultima Thule?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:07:25 PM] Canto: Howard:  We don't know a lot about the Thule Society. At least not about this active magical part of the Society.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:08:01 PM] Josie: Just that they murdered Theo's friend and used his body to try to kill us.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:08:27 PM] Rafe: Rafe frowns for a moment. "That's terrible."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:08:36 PM] Canto: Theo:  Yeah.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:09:03 PM] Rafe: I'm sorry for your loss.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:09:26 PM] Canto: Theo:  I just want to find this guy. He's gone to ground, and apparently can shapeshift.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:09:43 PM] Rafe: Rafe nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:09:51 PM] Canto: Howard:  Any thoughts on that, Dr. Crafter?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:10:26 PM] Canto: Theo:  A few. There are places where people like us gather. Cas and I went to a bar yesterday asking around.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:10:36 PM] Canto: Caspar:  Then Theo got punched in the eye.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:10:51 PM] Canto: Theo:  ...yeah.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:11:16 PM] Rafe: Rafe raises an eyebrow. "Tough crowd."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:11:51 PM] Josie: Either he was too nice, or not nice enough.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:11:54 PM] Canto: Theo:  I am not very socially tactful.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:14:34 PM] Canto: Caspar lights a cigarette. "He's right, though.  There's places where most of the magical world's people meet to do... business.  Above board and otherwise, regardless of whatever faction that person might be affiliated with. "

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:15:26 PM] Josie: Josie nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:15:33 PM] Josie: I suspect Rafe might have more success.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:15:56 PM] Rafe: Rafe grins at Josie.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:16:49 PM] Canto: Caspar:  All of you might. Theo is fairly well known around Boston. I was seen with him yesterday, so they know me, too. But you three aren't from around here.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:17:53 PM] Rafe: That the plan for today then?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:19:40 PM] Canto: Howard:  Yes. You three go to the pub in question --  it's called The Questing Goat -- and see if you can find out anything about this Thule agent.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:19:57 PM] Rafe: What kind of place is it?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:20:13 PM] Canto: Theo:  Shapeshifters aren't terribly common.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:20:44 PM] Josie: He just wants to know what he should wear. Or who.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:23:07 PM] Canto: Caspar:  Pretty casual. It's a pub. Don't wear tuxes, but suits aren't unusual.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:25:54 PM] Josie: Are women?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:26:53 PM] Canto: Caspar:  Not at all.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:27:15 PM] Canto: Caspar:  The proprieteress is a woman.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:27:43 PM] Canto: Caspar:  Also, she's a 2000 year old mummy. So, tread lightly.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:28:02 PM] Rafe: Rafe 's eyes widen slightly.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:28:46 PM] Rafe: So we're looking for a German Thule agent that can look like anyone.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:29:00 PM] Josie: ... just before the time of Christ, then. Interesting.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:29:38 PM] Canto: Caspar:  Yes. There are people who can always recognize shifters though.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:29:50 PM] Rafe: ...there are?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:30:31 PM] Canto: Caspar:  Sure.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:31:53 PM] Canto: Theo gets out a piece of paper and writes something down.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:32:13 PM] Canto: Caspar:  You can change your face, you can change your body, but you can't change your scent. Or your aura.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:32:37 PM] Rafe: ....hmm. Good to know.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:35:15 PM] Canto: Howard:  See what you can find out. We need to know what the Thule are up to with these Tears.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:35:30 PM] Josie: Josie nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:36:08 PM] Rafe: Do you two have any preference on how we play it?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:36:45 PM] Josie: I'm willing to follow your lead.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:39:00 PM] Rafe: I'd like to go change first. Probably an older, heavier man. People tend to trust them more... and German to create a common point.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:39:22 PM] Josie: Sprechen Sie Deutsch?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:40:06 PM] Rafe: Ein wenig.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:40:15 PM] Josie: Gut, gut.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:40:29 PM] Canto: Caspar:  He's not likely to be there. But you might be able to get a lead there.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:40:41 PM] Rafe: I'm not fluent, but I imagine you could help me out if needed.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:40:47 PM] Josie: Yes.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:40:51 PM] Josie: A lot of people speak German, though.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:40:56 PM] Ella: ...I'm not nearly awake enough to deal with this.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:42:10 PM] Canto: Theo:  I'll make some coffee.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:42:20 PM] Canto: Theo leaves the office!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:42:24 PM] Josie: Mmm, that does sound nice.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:42:32 PM] Josie: Josie pats Ella on the shoulder.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:42:41 PM] Josie: Just remember, you saved all our skins yesterday.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:43:00 PM] Rafe: Late night? Or did you just have trouble sleeping?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:44:24 PM] Ella: Early morning. And also I did my past-life regression today, so I'm still sorting out some things.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:44:39 PM] Josie: Oh! How did it go?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:44:47 PM] Rafe: Your... what?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:45:33 PM] Ella: Pretty well, I think.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:47:39 PM] Josie: I... had a hard time coming back.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:48:55 PM] Ella: Well, at least you're back now.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:49:46 PM] Ella: ^_^

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:50:08 PM] Josie: Mostly.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:51:22 PM] Rafe: I'm sorry... I think I must have missed something in the welcoming guide.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:51:23 PM] Canto: Caspar:  ... you have your powers because in a past life, you were exposed to a source of great magical power. A past life regression is a way to put you in touch with that life and unlock the ability to learn magical spells.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:51:44 PM] Rafe: Oh! Fascinating.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:52:05 PM] Canto: Caspar:  In this way you can expand your own abilities.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:52:26 PM] Canto: Caspar:  If you have the patience or temperment. I, for example, never have.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:53:22 PM] Rafe: Hmmm... I wonder how patient. If there's the promise of fun to come, it might be acceptable.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:54:56 PM | Edited 10:57:08 PM] Canto: Caspar:  Usually the the procedure is performed by a powerful Yeti telepath, or, as in the ladies' case, a vampire through the use of hypnosis. It's not something to be undertaken lightly, though. As both Miss Burke and Dr. Black can tell you.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:56:35 PM] Rafe: Rafe nods and shrugs.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 10:56:40 PM] Josie: Yours must not have been as fun as mine.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:01:39 PM] Canto: Theo comes back with coffee.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:01:56 PM] Rafe: Life's too short not to have fun, I think.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:02:35 PM] Canto: Caspar:  You've lived over and over and over again.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:03:18 PM] Josie: But every time we start over, Mr. Quentin.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:03:22 PM] Canto: Theo hands Josie a cup of coffee. "How do you take your coffee, Ella?  Mr. Windsor?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:03:53 PM] Josie: Josie takes it, and sips it, and takes out her mechafrog and scritches it with her other hand.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:03:54 PM] Rafe: Sugar and cream, if I may.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:04:50 PM] Ella: As much sugar and cream as possible.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:05:06 PM] Ella: Coffee tastes like eyeball.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:05:16 PM] Ella: Don't ask me how I know that.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:05:19 PM] Rafe: Rafe raises an eyebrow. "Eyeball?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:05:28 PM] Ella: I said don't ask.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:05:36 PM] Rafe: Rafe chuckles.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:05:48 PM] Canto: Theo:  Mr. Hughes?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:05:55 PM] Canto: Hughes:  Black, please.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:06:20 PM] Ella: It's a long story. A long, awkward, half-remembered story.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:07:39 PM] Canto: Theo distributes coffee.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:07:48 PM] Rafe: Thank you.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:07:55 PM] Ella: ^_^

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:08:05 PM] Josie: Josie smiles at Theo.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:09:10 PM] Canto: Hughes:  It sounds like this is the best bet for tracking down this Thule agent.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:10:44 PM] Josie: Josie nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:10:46 PM] Josie: Shall we go?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:11:06 PM] Canto: Theo:  Good luck. Be careful. A lot of the guys in there are pretty touchy.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:11:27 PM] Canto: Caspar:  ... they recognized you because of that thing with the half-mechancial gorillas.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:11:39 PM] Rafe: I'll keep you safe. Might we swing by my hotel room first, though?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:11:46 PM] Josie: You don't mind if they all think they're newts afterward, do you?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:11:50 PM] Canto: Theo:  They *should* have been grateful, then!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:11:54 PM] Josie: Josie waggles her eyebrows.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:12:21 PM | Edited 11:12:30 PM] Canto: Theo:  If not for me, everyone in Boston would be speaking half-mechanical gorilla-eese now!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:12:49 PM] Josie: Theo... I don't think that's a language.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:13:09 PM] Canto: Theo:  They communicated through a combination of clicks and grunts.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:13:12 PM] Rafe: Oooh-oooh, resistor.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:13:22 PM] Canto: Theo:  Also some kind of sign language.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:13:33 PM] Canto: Caspar:  ... anyway.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:13:44 PM] Canto: Caspar:  Try not to start any fights.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:14:08 PM] Rafe: Violence is rarely the answer to anything.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:14:15 PM] Rafe: Unless you're trying to win a boxing match.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:14:23 PM] Canto: Caspar:  In this case it might get you cursed and vomiting locusts.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:15:13 PM] Rafe: Rafe finishes his coffee. "To the hotel!"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:15:35 PM] Canto: So, you guys roll transform and roll out.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:15:42 PM] Canto: Or, roll out so that Rafe can tranform.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:15:48 PM] Rafe: Say... what's a common power for people to have that I might not be asked to demonstrate?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:16:08 PM] Canto: Theo:  Being able to change the color of your urine.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:16:22 PM] Rafe: ....well that suits part two anyway. Is that really common?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:16:34 PM] Canto: Theo:  No idea. I've never met anyone who admitted to it.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:17:04 PM] Josie: Eat asparagus, anyone can do that.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:17:08 PM] Rafe: Ha! You're not so bad, Dr. Crafter. Not at all the stick in the mud Dr. Black made you out to be.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:17:10 PM] Rafe: Rafe winks.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:17:40 PM] Josie: Josie pokes Rafe in the chest.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:17:42 PM] Canto: Theo grins.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:17:53 PM] Josie: There's plenty of newt to go around.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:17:56 PM] Rafe: Rafe grimaces. "Ooh."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:19:57 PM] Josie: Let's go.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:20:29 PM] Rafe: After you!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:20:58 PM] Canto: So you go to the hotel.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:22:04 PM] Josie: Josie sticks with Rafe.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:22:07 PM] Rafe: Rafe disappears into his room and comes back out wearing a grey, somewhat worn, plain suit that is stretched tight across a large belly, a grey beard and hair... and a very subtle German accent.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:22:20 PM] Josie: I suppose I'm supposed to be the floozy.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:22:28 PM] Rafe: Floozy?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:23:10 PM] Rafe: If you wanted to flirt with me and hang on my arm, you don't have to pretend it's for work, Dr. Black!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:24:48 PM] Josie: Be careful what you wish for.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:25:52 PM] Rafe: You know more about Thule and this whole secret world than I do. What do you think will be the best approach?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:27:06 PM] Josie: I really don't know that much.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:27:18 PM] Josie: "We're looking for a shapeshifter who could look or act like anyone" won't help.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:27:27 PM] Josie: ... possibly anyone who's been acting strangely lately.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:27:58 PM] Josie: Unlike themselves.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:28:59 PM] Rafe: You mentioned a list of names. Could those be aliases?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:30:10 PM] Josie: I'd thought conspirators. What did you think, Ella?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:31:38 PM] Ella: Either seems plausible. Another possibility is that it could *maybe* be a hit list. Or worse, a *completed* hit list.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:31:52 PM] Rafe: So no idea. Shall we present ourselves as part of one group or another, or run the Jilted Lover?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:32:20 PM] Josie: I *would* enjoy slapping you.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:32:24 PM] Josie: ... possibly more than you would.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:32:32 PM] Rafe: Bah! I'm not the lover!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:33:23 PM] Rafe: Our necromancer is. You, my dear little girl were left at the altar by that scoundrel and I am looking for him to demand an explanation!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:33:24 PM] Josie: Why don't I believe you?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:34:04 PM] Josie: ... oh, I see. But then his friends wouldn't tell us.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:34:08 PM] Rafe: Do I look like the debonair lover that would leave such a beautiful woman?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:34:26 PM] Rafe: That is a risk. Are we sure these are friends?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:35:43 PM] Rafe: Of course you could always be willing for a reunion against Papa's wishes.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:35:45 PM] Rafe: Rafe smiles.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:36:23 PM] Josie: I'm not sure about either.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:36:32 PM] Josie: ... maybe Ella better play that part, I'm not so very good at the crying.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:37:25 PM] Ella: Well, my height does lend itself well to attracting sympathy.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:38:18 PM] Rafe: Rafe 's German accent slips instead to a subtle *Irish* one.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:38:35 PM] Rafe: So who are you then, Dr. Black?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:39:07 PM] Josie: ... cranky older sister? I don't know.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:39:53 PM] Ella: You could be a different party, looking for the necromancer to offer him a job?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:39:53 PM] Rafe: Perhaps just another patron there for a drink and you can help read the other patrons.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:41:56 PM] Rafe: What would you be most comfortable with?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:42:11 PM] Josie: I could try to read them, but they're likely trained to stop telepaths.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:42:15 PM] Josie: It seems that most magic people are.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:43:15 PM] Rafe: Of course, if your heart is set on it, you could always be my loving wife and dear....... Kathleen's step-mother.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:44:17 PM] Josie: Oh, good, the tarty stepmother. All right, that I can manage.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:45:26 PM] Rafe: What's the man's name, anyway?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:45:39 PM] Ella: We don't know.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:45:46 PM] Rafe: Rafe 's face falls.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:46:01 PM] Rafe: Well how are we supposed to say you were marrying him if we don't have a name!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:46:17 PM] Rafe: His assumed name, even?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:46:28 PM] Rafe: ...do priests get married here?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:46:41 PM] Rafe: This plan may not be the best one ever concocted.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:46:43 PM] Rafe: Rafe chuckles.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:48:41 PM] Josie: I'm sure he's not pretending to be a priest now.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:48:47 PM] Josie: And yes, they do.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:48:55 PM] Josie: Because this one was pretending to be Episcopalian.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:49:15 PM] Rafe: Well... he could have left her at the altar because he abandoned that identity.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:49:21 PM] Rafe: But we'd still need that name.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:49:40 PM] Rafe: Was there a name on the board outside the church?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:50:18 PM] Canto: The guy the Thule agent was pretending to be was most likely Ernest Stahl.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:52:34 PM] Josie: Ernest Stahl.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:52:37 PM] Josie: Probably.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:53:12 PM] Rafe: Well... it's better than nothing. Unless anyone has a better idea.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:54:30 PM] Josie: It's difficult because we can't know if we'll be talking to friends or enemies.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:54:40 PM] Josie: Maybe we're better off asking about people who've been acting strangely lately.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:55:53 PM] Rafe: Rafe goes back to the German accent. "If you think it's best. Why are we looking for him?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:56:35 PM] Josie: I'd like to punch him in the face.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:56:42 PM] Josie: ... also we probably need to interrogate him.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:57:05 PM] Rafe: ...I meant when they ask, why are we looking for someone acting strange?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:57:33 PM] Ella: We're worried about him?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:58:01 PM] Ella: We think he's getting into something too crazy for even him to handle?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/28/2014 11:59:17 PM] Josie: He's on cocaine.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:01:05 AM] Rafe: All of the above then?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:02:42 AM] Josie: I don't know, just pick something. Let's go.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:03:14 AM] Rafe: Heh. Indeed.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:03:42 AM] Ella: ADVENTURE!

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:04:05 AM] Ella: Or, you know, a nasty case of the mummy's curse.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:05:14 AM] Josie: I'll curse her right back if I have to.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:10:01 AM] Canto: You head back out to the address Theo gave you for the Questing Goat, an unassuming little place in a not-great neighborhood.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:12:02 AM] Josie: Josie unbuttons a couple of buttons and lets her hair down.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:12:41 AM] Rafe: Rafe raises an eyebrow. "I see you also know how best to prey on others."

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:12:58 AM] Josie: Josie blushes a little bit.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:13:14 AM] Josie: Well, if you're in any danger of falling victim, please let me know.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:13:53 AM] Rafe: Ah, if only. I try not to mix business with pleasure.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:14:07 AM] Rafe: Rafe opens the door for them.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:15:26 AM] Josie: How unexpectedly bourgeois.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:15:41 AM] Josie: Josie steps through.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:15:59 AM] Ella: Ella also enters.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:18:02 AM] Canto: You step in to what is basically the magical world's equivalent of a Mos Eisley cantina. There are people of all types in the pub, some not able to pass for entirely human. There's a dessicated corpse in an expensive tailored suit over there, and a woman covered with fur over there, and a Yeti over there by the bar. Many patrons look completely normal, of course. There's a lively irish tune playing and the general mood is very pleasant and upbeat.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:18:23 AM] Josie: Josie smiles.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:18:42 AM] Rafe: Busy for the time of day, no?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:20:20 AM] Rafe: Rafe heads to the bar and orders a beer- the darker the better.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:20:53 AM] Josie: Josie pokes him.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:20:57 AM] Josie: What about me, ya cad?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:23:17 AM] Canto: The woman behind the bar is a pretty woman with red hair, freckles, and antennae.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:23:32 AM] Rafe: Rafe raises an eyebrow wearily. "I'm sorry. What would you like? You change your mind so often, I never know for sure."

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:23:43 AM] Josie: The same.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:23:55 AM] Rafe: Make it two, please.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:24:00 AM] Rafe: Rafe winks at the girl behind the counter.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:24:31 AM] Canto: She blinks at him, and gets to work on the order.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:25:06 AM] Josie: Well you don't have to *drool* at them.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:26:16 AM] Rafe: I wasn't drooling.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:26:47 AM] Josie: I'm not *blind.*

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:28:05 AM] Rafe: Well I'm not either. I know what I've got... but that doesn't mean I can't appreciate other works of art as well.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:28:14 AM] Rafe: Rafe takes Josie's hand and kisses her knuckles.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:29:00 AM] Josie: Oh, fine.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:29:04 AM] Josie: Josie grumbles.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:30:27 AM] Canto: Your beers are brought to you by a gorgeous woman with meticulously styled black hair, dark eyes, and dusky skin who is somewhere around 4'9".  She's wearing a loosefiting red blouse and a black skirt that is hemmed slightly higher than is currently fashionable.  "First time here?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:31:21 AM] Rafe: Rafe smiles. "It is indeed."

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:32:22 AM] Josie: Josie nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:33:25 AM] Canto: "I am Amunet.  I do not care what you're here for; if you're here to trade gossip, buy information, or trade artifacts or spells in the black market.  Perhaps you are here for the steak and kidney pie.  If not, I recommend it.  It's very good."

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:33:48 AM] Canto: Amunet:  Anyway. I do not care what you're here for. Do not start any trouble here.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:34:19 AM] Rafe: Of course not, dear lady.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:35:58 AM] Josie: Josie says something that sounds pretty weird in a nonEnglish language!

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:36:07 AM] Canto: Amunet:  This is a place of peace and commerce. If you do not respect that, for a first offense, I will banish you to the Dark World. For a second, I will curse you. For a third? You do not wish--

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:36:23 AM] Canto: she trails off as she listens to Josie, then smiles, saying something back to her in that language.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:38:46 AM] Josie: I was there once.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:39:14 AM] Canto: Amunet:  Ahh. Well, now that all that is taken care of, welcome.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:39:14 AM] Josie: And I'll be respectful.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:39:19 AM] Josie: Thank you.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:39:25 AM] Josie: Josie smiles at her.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:41:02 AM] Rafe: Rafe glances at Josie with a questioning look, but quickly turns to his beer.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:41:19 AM | Edited 12:42:41 AM] Canto: Amunet:  Well. Let me know if I can get anything for you.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:42:53 AM] Rafe: Of course. Thank you.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:43:14 AM] Canto: She heads off, making the rounds to her other patrons.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:43:53 AM] Josie: Josie nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:44:02 AM] Josie: ... I was Egyptian in my past life.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:44:14 AM] Josie: Surrounded by handsome, adoring servants, might I add.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:44:37 AM] Rafe: And you're worried about my eyes wandering.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:45:46 AM] Rafe: So... what do you think?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:46:25 AM] Josie: I think you'd better get started.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:46:29 AM] Josie: Josie takes a swig of her beer.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:46:49 AM] Canto: There's a guy in the corner booth staring at you!

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:46:51 AM] Canto: Maybe.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:47:09 AM] Canto: He's wearing a cloak with the hood pulled down over his face, so it just *feels* like you're being stared at.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:47:54 AM] Rafe: ...right.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:48:09 AM] Josie: He's looking at us oddly, isn't he.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:48:37 AM] Rafe: Perhaps. Though he could just be looking at you, my dear.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:49:10 AM] Rafe: Rafe raises his hand to get the attention of a server.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:49:55 AM] Canto: You flag down the bartender from earlier. With the antennae.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:49:59 AM] Josie: We should probably find out...

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:50:42 AM] Rafe: Rafe smiles at her through his beard. "The man in the corner there.... do you know who he is and can I have one of whatever he's drinking?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:51:05 AM] Canto: She looks over at him. "Oh, Charon?  You don't want what he's drinking."

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:51:33 AM] Rafe: It's for him. Just a conversation starter, really.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:51:51 AM] Canto: Bartender:  He doesn't really.... converse.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:52:07 AM] Rafe: Does he always stare?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:52:09 AM] Josie: ... the Styx boatman?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:52:32 AM] Canto: Bartender:  No. He doesn't have eyes, he can't really stare at anyone, can he?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:52:48 AM] Canto: She looks at Josie. "Mmmhmm.  Or at least a manifestation."

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:53:35 AM] Josie: ... wow. Are there other famous people here?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:54:35 AM] Canto: Bartender:  Not at the moment, not really. Well. Some are famous in their own circles, if you know what I mean.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:55:14 AM] Josie: Like who?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:57:28 AM] Josie: Josie takes Rafe's arm, maybe a little too affectionately, and says, in his head: well, now what?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:57:34 AM] Josie: Josie asks Ella, too.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:58:46 AM] Canto: She nods at teh dessicated gentleman, who is talking business with a normal looking businessman. "The Prince there.  He's part of the Kingdom.  The largest suppliers of black market artifacts int he world."

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:58:52 AM] Rafe: I have one more question for you. You see... we came up from New York looking for someone. A German man like myself. May be going by the name Ernest. Ernest Stahl. Have you heard of him?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:59:20 AM] Josie: Josie peers at the desiccated guy interestedly.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:59:31 AM] Canto: She looks thoughtful. "Can't say as I have, dear."

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:59:52 AM] Rafe: Rafe smiles. "Thank you anyway."

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:00:39 AM] Rafe: Rafe pats Josie's hand. "I knew you liked your men old, dear, but that's a stretch isn't it?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:01:11 AM] Josie: Might be more lively than *you.*

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:02:03 AM] Rafe: I'm sorry. I didn't catch your name, miss.

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:02:03 AM] Josie: Josie thinks at Ella and Rafe: You don't think the things they're using are black market, do you? I wouldn't know, we'd have to ask Theo. And I can't from here.

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:02:58 AM] Rafe: Rafe lifts his shoulders in a very subtle shrug of 'I don't know' in response.

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:03:31 AM] Ella: ~Possibly, but it's unclear.

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:04:46 AM] Canto: Bartender:  Robin.

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:05:47 AM] Rafe: Rafe smiles. "That's a beautiful name. Thank you for your time, but I do wish to press my luck with one more question. This man we're looking for... he has the ability to take on other identities. Do you know anyone like that?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:06:14 AM] Josie: Or anyone who's been acting oddly.

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:07:52 AM] Canto: Robin:  Well. I haven't seen another shapeshifter lately. Present company excluded, of course.

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:08:12 AM] Canto: Robin:  But there have been rumors of folks going crazy lately, right?

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:08:56 AM] Rafe: Rafe blinks. "I'm impressed."

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:08:57 AM] Josie: Josie nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:09:21 AM] Josie: But it wouldn't be crazy per se. It'd be... off. Not like themselves. Not jealous or irrational or violent, more... furtive.

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:12:19 AM] Canto: Robin:  Doesn't really describe any of our regulars. But I heard about the wind guy at the club, and the growing lady near the airport. And that guy with all the fire and light.

<p class="MsoNormal">[1:12:45 AM] Josie: ... those poor people.

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<p class="MsoNormal">

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:01:15 PM] Canto: So! you guys were in the Questing Goat, a pub where a bunch of magical types, Council affiliated and otherwise congregate, socialize, and do business.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:03:15 PM] Rafe: Rafe sips his beer and glances back at Charon to see if he looks like he's still looking at us... without eyes.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:03:58 PM] Canto: You have no idea who he's looking at! You can't see his face.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:04:09 PM] Canto: But his hood isn't tilted in your direction.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:04:43 PM] Josie: Josie had failed to seduce Rafe!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:06:08 PM] Canto: Besides Charon, the people you've met so far are Amunet,  apparently a mummy and the proprieteress of the place, Robin the bartender, who is a normal looking gal except for the antennae that sprout from her red hair. There's also 'the Prince', a dessicated gentleman in a very expensive tailored suit doing business with a human fella in a booth in the corner.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:13:50 PM] Ella: Ella has pulled out a tiny lil' book and a pencil, and is writing things down in it. She is also sketching things out, slowly and carefully. So far she's finished one sketch. It looks like a knife with writing on it.

<p class="MsoNormal">(If anyone can read Ancient Mongolian, it reads "DO NOT LET THIS BLADE TOUCH BLOOD. COMBUSTION WILL RESULT.")

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:16:09 PM] Josie: Josie can't.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:17:43 PM] Canto: Robin smiles and moves to help other patrons!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:18:08 PM] Josie: Josie shakes her head.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:19:01 PM] Rafe: Rafe speaks in a low, quiet voice. "If there are no shape-shifters as regulars, we'll have to try a different approach."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:20:46 PM] Josie: What approach?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:21:20 PM] Rafe: I'm not really sure. I've been focusing on finding the man... is there something else we need to look for?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:23:14 PM] Josie: The machine?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:23:39 PM] Canto: A tall man comes in, ducking under the doorframe to let himself in. He's about seven feet tall. He puts his hat on a hatstand by the door.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:24:35 PM] Canto: He wears a trenchcoat, buttoned up, which he takes off, revealing goat legs! He's wearing pants, apparently custom tailored pants.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:25:26 PM] Rafe: I don't know much about that. You said the machine was found in LA, though, right?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:25:37 PM] Josie: Josie shrugs.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:25:42 PM] Josie: I think they'll need more than one.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:27:46 PM] Rafe: You think the prince would have any idea?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:27:48 PM] Canto: Also, the tall guy has goat horns.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:29:55 PM] Canto: He passes you guys and orders his 'regular', then takes a seat near Charon.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:30:18 PM] Josie: Give it a try.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:31:25 PM] Rafe: Rafe glances over in his direction to see who he is talking to.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:33:41 PM] Canto: He seems to be finishing up business with the human he's talking too, as they're nodding and shake hands.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:34:29 PM] Rafe: Rafe stands and holds his elbow out to Josie. "Shall we?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:34:58 PM] Rafe: Rafe also motions for Ella to follow.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:35:02 PM] Josie: Josie takes his arm.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:35:20 PM] Ella: Ella shuts her book and does so.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:35:47 PM] Rafe: Rafe leads the ladies over to the booth and tries to time his arrival to the departure of his other guest.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:36:44 PM] Canto: The Prince is currently reading a newspaper. He looks up at you. You can't really see his eyes as he's wearing smoked glasses. "Do you have an appointment?" He speaks in a very cultured upper-class British accent.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:37:21 PM] Rafe: Not precisely. I was hoping I could buy you a drink or lunch and we might be able to talk for just a few minutes.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:37:37 PM] Rafe: Rafe lets a little more German accent sneak into his voice.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:38:32 PM] Josie: Josie looks bored, while actually not being, at all.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:38:47 PM] Canto: He looks at each of you, his gaze lingering on you for a few moments. "I didn't do it."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:38:58 PM] Rafe: ...do what?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:39:20 PM] Ella: Sure you didn't.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:39:50 PM] Ella: We're not accusing you of anything.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:40:51 PM] Josie: What didn't you do?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:41:45 PM] Rafe: Of course we're not. We're just looking for someone and are hoping you might have heard something that could help.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:41:55 PM] Ella: He's likely referring to David's shell's demise.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:42:13 PM] Canto: The Prince: ... perhaps. I suppose I have about a half hour before my next appointment, have a seat.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:42:22 PM] Ella: Or the *deadly mold*.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:42:36 PM] Rafe: Rafe smiles and sits.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:43:15 PM] Rafe: Care for a drink?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:43:31 PM] Canto: He holds up his glass. "My milkshake needs a refill."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:44:05 PM] Rafe: Rafe flags down Robin and orders another round for each of us- milkshake, two beers, and something sugary and nonalcoholic.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:44:06 PM] Josie: Oh, are they good here?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:44:43 PM] Canto: Prince:  Not bad. I suggest the strawberry.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:45:28 PM] Josie: I'll keep that in mind for next time. Not too sure it'd be good as a beer chaser.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:47:22 PM] Canto: Prince:  Here's the deal. I mostly deal in material commodities. Buying, selling, shipping. But this does put me in contact with a lot of... information. Information is of course its own commodity.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:48:15 PM] Josie: What do you want for it?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:48:16 PM] Canto: Prince:  So. You can ask your questions. I will answer them as best I can. After we're done, I ask for payment. And since you're new customers, I'll give each of you *one* question, for free.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:48:49 PM] Canto: Prince:  Depends on the information. I should tell you that I have no interest in money, nor souls.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:49:13 PM] Josie: Hmm. All right, then.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:49:18 PM] Josie: I'll go first.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:49:27 PM] Josie: What is the one question you hope we *don't* ask?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:52:12 PM] Canto: Prince:  Interesting. Anything relating to the Titantic.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:52:49 PM] Josie: That one was rather famous.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:54:13 PM] Rafe: Do you know where we can find the German man that has been posing as a preacher at the Old North Church, possibly under the name Ernest Stahl?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:56:42 PM] Canto: Prince:  I'm afraid I don't. I might know someone who does, though.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:58:11 PM] Josie: Josie nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 9:58:41 PM] Josie: I'm very interested in what you do, and what kinds of things you can obtain.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:00:19 PM] Canto: He looks at Ella. "And you?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:06:48 PM] Ella: Hm. If you actually do know someone who knows where the preacher-impersonating gent who my grey-headed friend mentioned is, then who are they and how can we enlist their help?

<p class="MsoNormal">If not, the question is actually more of a riddle.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:09:15 PM] Canto: Prince:  There's a woman named Cassie Drake. She is a clairvoyant, a psychic with a small practice downtown. She might know where your German is. I'll even give you her address.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:09:31 PM] Rafe: It would be appreciated.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:09:36 PM] Ella: ^_^

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:10:05 PM] Canto: The Prince looks at Josie:  I am a middleman. Or a salesman. Both, sometimes.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:10:33 PM] Canto: The Prince:  I'm afraid I don't have a catalog with me, though. Is there anything you're looking for?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:11:48 PM] Josie: Not yet, but probably there will be. I'd love a business card.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:12:14 PM] Canto: He nods, and hands Josie a card!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:12:29 PM] Josie: Josie takes it and reads the name.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:12:30 PM] Canto: It says 'The Prince' and there's a phone number.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:12:55 PM] Josie: ((Purple rain, purple raaaain....))

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:13:41 PM] Josie: Thank you!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:15:47 PM] Rafe: You've been very helpful. Thank you.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:16:34 PM] Canto: The Prince:  I could tell you some things about the Old North Church. Or the Thule. If you're still interested now that you're out of freebies.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:16:43 PM] Canto: Robin comes along with the drinks.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:17:40 PM] Ella: That depends on what exactly you want for the questions.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:19:07 PM] Canto: He sips his milkshake through the straw! Which looks weird on a mummy, let me tell you. "You ask the questions first, then I decide on the prince.  That's how it works."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:20:01 PM] Ella: Fair enough, I guess. Sneaky, but fair.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:21:48 PM] Rafe: Rafe eyes him a little. "Price before or after the answer? I'm sure you can understand why we'd be hesitant to purchase something without knowing the cost."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:23:53 PM] Canto: He eyes Josie. "Ask the questions.  I will tell you the price for the answers.  Then you will decide if you want them answered.  But *she* has to ask them."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:24:18 PM] Rafe: Rafe raises an eyebrow.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:25:01 PM] Josie: I'm not going to ask why.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:25:38 PM] Josie: I'll just assume it's because I'm prettier than he is.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:25:57 PM] Rafe: Rafe grins.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:29:20 PM] Canto: The Prince:  Well? Ask your questions.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:29:29 PM] Josie: Josie shrugs.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:29:55 PM] Josie: All right. What's the best way to beat them?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:31:31 PM] Canto: The Prince:  The Thule? Haven't the foggiest.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:31:42 PM] Canto: The Prince:  I'll give you that one for free.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:32:29 PM] Josie: Josie thinks at the others: Feel free to suggest a question!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:32:47 PM] Josie: Why don't you want to talk about the Titanic?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:33:13 PM] Rafe: Rafe is content to sit back and watch her work... and drink his beer, of course.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:33:47 PM] Canto: The Prince:  Any other questions?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:34:31 PM] Josie: What question should I be asking?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:34:46 PM] Rafe: Rafe smiles into his beer.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:36:25 PM] Canto: The Prince:  Are those all the questions?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:37:29 PM] Ella: Ella flips to one of the first pages of her book and hands it to Josie.

<p class="MsoNormal">"Ask him this."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:37:40 PM] Josie: Josie takes it and reads it!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:39:14 PM] Josie: What lurks at the end of everything, forever eating its own past?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:43:59 PM] Canto: He takes out a notebook of his own and pulls out an expensive pen, jotting something down. "Are those your questions?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:44:42 PM] Rafe: Works for me.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:44:45 PM] Josie: Yes.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:45:04 PM] Ella: All for now.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:46:12 PM] Canto: He hands the piece of paper to Josie.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:47:40 PM] Josie: Josie takes it and looks at it.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:50:17 PM] Josie: Josie narrows her eyes at him.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:50:33 PM | Edited 10:50:39 PM] Rafe: Rafe raises a bushy eyebrow at Josie.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:50:34 PM] Josie: Hair is sympathetic magic. You could do a lot of nasty things to somebody with that.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:50:35 PM] Canto: It is very hard to read the face of a dessicated corpse.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:51:19 PM] Canto: The Prince:  I could.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:51:41 PM] Canto: The Prince:  Of course, I have no reason to.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:52:17 PM] Canto: The Prince:  Perhaps I just like your cleverness.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:52:45 PM] Josie: You're a *merchant.*

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:52:53 PM] Josie: It's worth something to somebody who'd want to hurt me.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:53:49 PM] Canto: The Prince:  I'd be willing to leave that off the price. But you're down to two questions. And I choose which I don't answer.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:55:21 PM] Josie: Tell me what you'd do with it.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:55:49 PM] Canto: The Prince:  I have no idea.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:56:07 PM] Josie: ... I expected you to say "highest bidder."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:58:17 PM] Rafe: Rafe looks at Josie with a little bit of a frown. "What is the price?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:58:50 PM] Josie: He wants us each to answer one question to the best of our ability.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:59:32 PM] Rafe: Three questions for three questions and hair? Yours, I assume?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 10:59:55 PM] Josie: Yes.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:00:14 PM | Edited 11:00:22 PM] Rafe: Or two for three.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:00:34 PM] Josie: Well. We accept, but the hair comes last.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:02:06 PM] Canto: The Prince:  You accept which deal?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:02:17 PM] Josie: All three.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:02:33 PM] Josie: All right, ask.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:02:37 PM] Rafe: Rafe raises an eyebrow again! (It's getting a workout.)

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:05:28 PM] Canto: The Prince looks at Rafe. "You're all Council, aren't you?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:05:35 PM] Josie: Wait.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:05:54 PM] Josie: We never agreed who was going to answer what.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:06:18 PM] Josie: You can answer if you like, Rafe, but if not, feel free to pass it on to Ella or to me.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:06:33 PM] Canto: The Prince:  I said, you must, in turn, each answer one question of mine.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:06:39 PM] Canto: The Prince:  I'm starting with him.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:07:13 PM] Josie: But you didn't specify the order. .... I'm sure he doesn't mind answering, I'm just pointing that out.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:07:45 PM] Rafe: We are right now working with them, yes.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:08:36 PM] Canto: The Prince looks at Ella. "What did you find in Old North Church?  The Council has it locked down."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:12:34 PM | Edited 11:13:14 PM] Ella: Something rather dangerous, as far as we know. Also some dust, a great deal of paperwork, a box, and a bottle of cheap wine.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:16:41 PM] Canto: The Prince at looks at Josie. "This dangerous thing you found.  It was in the steeple, wasn't it?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:18:08 PM] Josie: Yes.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:19:12 PM] Canto: The Prince nods. "Very well.  A deal is a deal."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:19:28 PM] Josie: Josie nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:21:10 PM] Canto: The Prince:  I was involved in the ship's sinking. It really was unsinkable. Heh. It was a long walk back to New York after that.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:21:52 PM] Josie: Oh dear, you had to walk all that way? That's awful.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:22:41 PM] Canto: The Prince:  Mostly boring.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:23:16 PM | Edited 11:23:26 PM] Ella: Most fish aren't the greatest conversationalists, I imagine.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:25:51 PM] Canto: The Prince:  "What lurks at the end of everything, eating its own past?" The future, of course. The future is always just over the horizon. And every step we take there, we look back further and further. In Egypt, they're digging up tombs that were built by people I knew millenia ago in the pursuit of knowledge.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:26:35 PM] Ella: ...

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:26:50 PM] Rafe: Rafe grins at Ella. "He got you there."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:26:59 PM] Ella: Guess so.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:28:32 PM] Canto: The Prince:  "What question should you be asking?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:28:40 PM] Canto: He sits back and considers this for a long moment.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:30:59 PM] Canto: The Prince:  "What do you know about the Thule Society's plans?"

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:31:40 PM] Josie: What *do* you know about the Thule Society's plans?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:32:33 PM] Canto: The Prince:  We need to finish our previous transaction, I believe.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:33:17 PM] Josie: Of course, but do me the courtesy of telling me if you're going to want *two* bits of hair, because I'd like some left on my head.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:34:50 PM] Canto: THe Prince:  No, only the one. We'll negotiate a new price for any other information.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:35:04 PM] Josie: All right. Does anyone have a scissors or a knife?

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:35:34 PM] Canto: The Prince hands you a knife!

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:37:20 PM] Josie: Josie inspects it for magic.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:41:04 PM] Josie: Josie heads into the bathroom.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:43:48 PM] Rafe: So....

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:44:06 PM] Canto: The Prince sips his milkshake.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:44:28 PM] Rafe: I imagine it must be hard to have a normal conversation with people.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:45:44 PM] Canto: The Prince:  We're having one right now, aren't we? You're being very polite and not even staring, but I stopped caring about that half a century ago. Eventually I'll start caring again, but for now, I have no fucks to give.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:46:59 PM] Rafe: Appearances don't matter much to me, honestly. I just meant with the careful selection of words and... well, there's not much small talk that doesn't involve questions. I'm not sure how you decide which questions require payment and which do not.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:49:15 PM] Canto: The Prince:  I'm not a bloody sphinx, friend. I do not literally charge for *every* question someone asks. I mostly trade in material goods. Information brokerage is something I do on the side. I simply find that making people *think* about their questions leads to a very productive specificity.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:49:37 PM] Rafe: Rafe chuckles. "Fair enough."

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:50:57 PM] Josie: Josie returns. Her hair's a bit shorter and possibly in need of a stylist, but she hands a little hank of it to the Prince.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:51:05 PM] Josie: Josie also leans over and kisses him on the cheek.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:51:12 PM] Josie: Be kind to it, please.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:51:42 PM] Canto: He takes it and carefully puts it in an inner pocket.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:52:46 PM] Josie: Josie smiles at him.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:54:41 PM] Josie: You remind me of friends I had once.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:55:04 PM] Canto: The Prince:  Well. It's more than I expected.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:55:11 PM] Josie: You should call me sometime. We could have a milkshake.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:56:41 PM] Canto: The Prince:  You have my number.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:57:26 PM] Josie: You're very modern aren't you? Or very *very* old-fashioned. I'll call you, then. Thanks.

<p class="MsoNormal">[7/30/2014 11:59:19 PM] Canto: The Prince:  Modern. We didn't have phones in the old days.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:00:37 AM] Rafe: So, what's the price for the last question?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:01:24 AM] Josie: Josie nods.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:02:37 AM] Canto: The Prince:  Your charming friend here learned I am not above flattery, apparently. Also, she gave me more of her hair than I expected, more than enough to make both the sympathetic magic doll *and* a love potion, so... We'll call it even.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:03:03 AM] Rafe: Love potion?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:03:28 AM] Canto: The Prince:  That was a joke.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:03:50 AM] Rafe: Rafe smiles.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:04:36 AM] Josie: ... there'd be worse things.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:04:54 AM] Josie: ... but I *did* already ask you on a date, so really... why waste it on that?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:06:05 AM | Edited 12:07:07 AM] Canto: The Prince:  Mmm. The truth of the matter is that I don't know what the Thule want. What I do have is a lot of rumors. They are interested in people like you --  empowered humans. They seem very interested in what makes you tick.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:06:19 AM] Canto: The Prince:  This implies that *they* are not empowered themselves.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:06:51 AM] Canto: The Prince:  This further implies that they are either not human, or they are receiving their power from inhuman sources.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:07:10 AM] Rafe: Hmmm.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:07:48 AM] Canto: The Prince:  As Thule magicians do seem quite potent, as potent as well-trained empowered magicians.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:08:23 AM] Josie: That's worrying.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:08:38 AM] Josie: I imagine there are other groups taking an interest in keeping them from becoming... problematic.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:09:24 AM] Canto: The Prince:  Indeed. The Kingdom is watching them carefully, to determine if they are potential customers, or rivals, or foes.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:12:16 AM] Canto: The Prince:  According to some of my sources in Germany, which obviously, become more and more unreliable by the day, they are very interested in something in Germany's Black Forest.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:12:43 AM] Josie: Something terrible is happening in Germany, isn't it?

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:14:01 AM] Canto: The Prince:  Oh yes. Their Fuhrer is quite mad. But the subtle, charismatic type of mad. He tells the powerful how to keep their power against enemies both real and imagined, and they flock to him.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:15:38 AM] Canto: The Prince:  Is the Thule Society his tool? Or is he theirs? I suspect something in between, that perhaps it's a relationship of mutual benefit.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:16:23 AM] Josie: Probably they think they're using the other one.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:16:34 AM] Rafe: I imagine it is going to quickly become unfashionable to be German again, very soon.... if it ever really came back into fashion.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:18:38 AM] Canto: The Prince:  Germany of course has spies in the United States. I believe that the Thule have their agents *among* those spies. Spies within spies.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:20:15 AM] Josie: Worrying.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:22:15 AM] Rafe: The use of spies? I'd imagine it's very common, really.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:22:42 AM] Josie: No, just... what's going on over there.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:24:32 AM | Edited 12:28:28 AM] Rafe: Rafe sighs. "Yes. It certainly is."

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:24:37 AM] Canto: The Prince:  The Old North Church is interesting. Now my arcane geometry is a bit rusty, but I know that the architecture of the building was based on Hawksmoor's style. I don't know if the architect who designed the Old North was fully aware of it, but it's... like an amplifier for magical and spiritual energies.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:25:14 AM] Canto: The Prince:  Not as much as Hawksmoor's churches back in London, but still.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:26:16 AM] Canto: The Prince:  This... 'bad thing' they have in the steeple was put there on purpose, likely to use and focus energies like a magnifying glass in a sunbeam.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:27:11 AM] Josie: Ugh.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:27:14 AM] Josie: And we're the ants.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:29:13 AM] Canto: The Prince:  Yes. And I believe these recent... eruptions of empowered people are likely tied to it.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:31:51 AM] Josie: I suppose it's bad for business, so you'dl ike to see it stopped too.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:33:02 AM] Canto: The Prince:  As I said. We are waiting to see what these Thule are before we take any decisive actions.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:34:41 AM] Josie: Probably made a deal with Ultima Thule for power.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:37:30 AM] Canto: The Prince:  Perhaps.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:40:03 AM] Rafe: Thank you for sharing this information with us.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:41:11 AM] Canto: The Prince:  You paid. As I said, look up Cassie. She might be able to provide more leads. She's not Council affiliated. She's mercenary, though she accepts normal money, unlike myself.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:41:40 AM] Rafe: We will.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:43:09 AM] Josie: Right.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:43:11 AM] Josie: Thanks.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:43:19 AM] Josie: Josie stands up, kisses the Prince on the cheek again and heads out.

<p class="MsoNormal">[12:43:54 AM | Edited 12:51:33 AM] Rafe: Rafe  pays the bill, tips generously, then follows!

<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:"TimesNewRoman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">[12:44:14 AM] Ella: Ella also follows.